2013 Jamboree Troop A318

East Texas Area Council Jamboree Troop 1525 Newsletter Number 15

Birth Date and Location Required for Tour

Your birth date and town of birth are required for our visit to the pentagon. If you have not sent it yet please email it as soon as possible to [email protected].

Reminder on phone and electronics policy for trip

We covered this way back at our first meeting last fall, but I want to remind everyone that our scouts will not be allowed to bring cell phones or electronic games or devices. The main reason for this is that we will not have the facilities to charge them or keep them secure. We will have plenty of entertainment. The jamboree site will have pay phones and AT&T will be providing cell phones to call home as well. Patrol Leaders will be allowed to have a phone for use at Kings Dominion and while touring Washington DC when the patrols are out together and not with the whole troop. I will post the phone numbers for the scoutmasters on the web site before we leave along with the Jamboree emergency notification procedure.

UPDATE: ID Cards ARE Required to enter Fort

It sounds like the tune is changing a bit on ID cards. It will be easier if everyone has an identification card of some type. However, if you don’t we can submit a picture with your name on it, so don’t panic if you can’t get an ID card.

Bring your favorite Movies on Tape

Our bus has a VCR player, so if you have a favorite old movie on a VCR tape, please let me know you are bringing it and pack it in your stuff for the bus.

Where does that patch go?

Follow the link below to the official BSA insignia guide. Your uniform should have your scout rank on it, but not home troop specific insignia, like your quality unit patch. If you need additional Jamboree patches you need to order them on-line. You should have a Jamboree catalog with a code that will allow you to order from www.scoutstuff.org . Other patches can be obtained at the scout shop or ordered on-line. http://www.scouting.org/scoutsource/Media/InsigniaGuide/06.aspx

Next Jamboree Event

The second Shakedown at Camp Pirtle is on July 17 & 18. All troop members need to plan on arriving at Pirtle on Saturday 7/17 between 8:30 and 9:00 AM. We should be done by noon on Sunday July 18th. Large items will be packed for the Jamboree on Sunday. Cots, rugs, and other large personal items should be labeled and will be packed on the truck. Your foot locker will go on the bus on Friday July 23rd. You need to arrive in your full Jamboree uniform with the patches on it. IF YOU ARE NOT ATTENDING THE LAST SHAKEDOWN, email [email protected] ASAP.

You will get your trader patches that you preordered, hat and t-shirts at the shakedown.

50 Days and counting...

We are getting closer to the Jamboree. Our fees are paid and the plans are pretty much finalized. Now is the time to get your gear and uniforms together. You should have your foot locker by now (if not let me know). You will get t-shirts and a cap at the shakedown, but you should have your patches. If you have any questions come up please email [email protected].

Identification Cards ARE Required to enter Fort

Every PERSON entering Fort AP Hill will be REQUIRED TO HAVE AN IDENTIFCATION CARD with your name and picture. Your school ID card will work. State issued ID cards or military dependent cards are acceptable.

Bring your favorite Movies on Tape

Our bus has a VCR player, so if you have a favorite old movie on a VCR tape, please let me know you are bringing it and pack it in your stuff for the bus.

Where does that patch go?

Several people have asked about patch placement on uniforms. Follow the link below to the official BSA insignia guide. Your uniform should have your scout rank on it, but not home troop specific insignia, like your quality unit patch. If you need additional Jamboree patches you need to order them on-line. You should have a Jamboree catalog with a code that will allow you to order from www.scoutstuff.org . Other patches can be obtained at the scout shop or ordered on-line. http://www.scouting.org/scoutsource/Media/InsigniaGuide/06.aspx

Who does that belong to?

This is an unnecessary question if you have your belongings labeled. Along with a scout is “clean” is a scout is neat. You need to work to keep your belongings together, but as a back up ALL BELONGINGS need to be labeled. If items are found that are not labeled, no attempt will be made to get them back to you. If your name and troop number are on items, you will have a chance at getting them back.

Next Jamboree Event

Our next Jambo event is the second Shakedown at Camp Pirtle on July 17th and 18th. All troop members need to plan on arriving at Pirtle on Saturday July 17th between 8:30 and 9:00 AM. We should be done by noon on Sunday July 18th. We will set up camp Saturday and break things down on Sunday and pack the truck. Large items will be packed for the Jamboree on Sunday. Cots, rugs, and other large personal items should be labeled and will be packed on the truck. Your foot locker will go on the bus on Friday July 23rd. You need to arrive in your full Jamboree uniform with patches sewn on it. IF YOU ARE NOT ATTENDING THE LAST SHAKEDOWN, email [email protected] as soon as possible.

Featured Activity- Camping

This part might be obvious, but we all come from different troops with different camping traditions. If your home troop has a specific camping tradition, feel free to share it with your patrol. If you like making camp gadgets be sure and bring whatever you need to construct your favorite gadgets. Planning how you will set up your tent, will also help you stay organized and neat. We will not have propane lanterns so packing some extra batteries for your battery lanterns and flashlights will keep you out of the dark. All your camping gear needs to fit in the foot locker, so you should have enough room, but you will not have much extra room.

Get a PLAN

As you can see by looking at the daily schedule shown above, we will have nine FULL days of activities. What you do daily, for the most part, is up to you between 9 and 5. Advanced planning and preparation will allow you to make the most of your time. Visiting the Jamboree website at http://www.bsajamboree.org/ and identifying the activities that are of interest to you is a great next step. Check out the activities tab and decide what is of interest to you and plan out a schedule. You will not have time to do everything, so set priorities.

My advice on Merit Badges is to pick a couple of unique ones to work on not go overboard on Merit Badges. Several have very limited slots available, so have a back up or two, then get your merit badge book and be prepared to take the class.

You might even consult the map and visit exhibits that are the same general area on a given day. However, you need to be flexible. Special opportunities will come up and you should remain open to deviating from your plan. You should also find another scout or two in our troop to go with you each day.

DON’T DO DUMB THINGS…

Few things would be worse than breaking an arm or getting severely sun burned the day before we leave for Jamboree. So as time draws near, think before you act.

East Texas Area Council Jamboree Troop 1525 Newsletter NUMBER 13

We are getting close…

You should have all the patches that the troop is supplying from your Jambo fee. We will distribute troop ball caps and FIVE troop t-shirts at the final shake down. If you don’t have your foot locker, it should be on its way to you very soon. Jeff Jones is coordinating the distribution, so if you have not been contacted about picking it up, let Matt Lindsey or Jeff Jones know ASAP. If you need additional Jamboree patches you need to order them on-line. You should have a Jamboree catalog with a code that will allow you to order from www.scoutstuff.org . Other patches can be obtained at the scout shop or ordered on-line. Your uniform should have your scout rank on it, but not home troop specific insignia, like your quality unit patch.

Jamboree Payments and forms

Most of you are paid up and turned in your forms, if not please get them in as soon as possible. If you have a problem, email Matt Lindsey.

Get a PLAN

The first few days at the Jamboree will be overwhelming. The shakedown was the first step in maximizing your Jamboree experience. By learning the regular camping tasks that are required in advance, you can concentrate on the fun stuff when we arrive. Visiting the Jamboree website at http://www.bsajamboree.org/ and identifying the activities that are of interest to you is a great next step. Check out the activities tab and decide what is of interest to you and plan out a schedule. You will not have time to do everything, so set priorities.

My advice on Merit Badges is to pick a couple of unique ones to work on not go overboard on Merit Badges. Several have very limited slots available, so have a back up or two, then get your merit badge book and be prepared to take the class.

You might even consult the map and visit exhibits that are the same general area on a given day. However, you need to be flexible. Special opportunities will come up and you should remain open to deviating from your plan. You should also find another scout or two in our troop to go with you each day.

Next Jamboree Event

Our next Jambo event is the second Shakedown at Camp Pirtle on July 17th and 18th. All troop members need to plan on arriving at Pirtle on Saturday July 17th between 8:30 and 9:00 AM. We should be done by noon on Sunday July 18th. We will set up camp and then break things down on Sunday and pack the truck. Large items will be packed for the Jamboree on Sunday. Cots, rugs, and other large personal items should be labeled and will be packed on the truck. Your foot locker will go on the bus on Friday July 23rd. You need to arrive in your full Jamboree uniform with patches sewn on it. IF YOU ARE NOT ATTENDING THE LAST SHAKEDOWN, NOTIFY MATT LINDSEY at [email protected] as soon as possible.

Shakedown Review

Despite a storm or two, I would like to thank everyone for the hard work and effort at the shakedown this weekend. Share what you learned with your parents and make the needed changes for the next shakedown. If you forgot something important, now is the time to make a note so you will remember in July.

You should have your patches for your uniforms, now. At the next Shakedown in July you need to have them on your shirt and have your complete uniform, including pants and socks. If you want an additional Jamboree patch you need to order it on-line. You should have a Jamboree catalog with a code that will allow you to order from www.scoutstuff.org .

We will try to get the foot lockers, hats and t-shirts distributed to you before the next shakedown. More information will come later, but the footlockers will go on the bus when we leave and things like cots and troop gear will get packed on the truck at the shakedown to ship to the Jamboree.

Jamboree Payments and forms

Most of you are paid up and turned in your forms, but a few still owe the final payment and a medical form, so don’t forget to get them in as soon as possible. See the troop website for information on how to get a replacement if you need it.

AN OPENING IS AVAILABLE FOR ONE MORE SCOUT- SPREAD THE WORD

Be a HOMETOWN NEWS CORRESPONDENT

The time is now to register as a National Hometown News Correspondent for the 2010 National Scout Jamboree. It’s easier than ever to sign up! All jamboree youth participants are eligible to register as a National Hometown News Correspondent. The correspondent application is online, and it’s easy to access.

Go to http://www.bsajamboree.org/Activities/HometownNews.aspx . This will give you information about National Hometown News at the jamboree and provide a direct link to the application to register as a correspondent. If you need help contacting your local news outlet let me know and I will put you in contact with one of the District Publicity people.

Troop 1525 Member Spotlight

The spotlight for this issue will shine on the boogie woggie bugle boy from the Wolverine Patrol, Elliot West or Eli. Eli is the Bugler and is from Palestine and as you might guess is in the band. He plays the trumpet in his high school’s marching and jazz band. Eli is from troop 424 and is a Brotherhood member in the Order of the Arrow.

When he is not scouting he might be doing karate or practicing with the swim team. He also plays soccer and enjoys racquetball and is active in his church youth group.

Featured Activity- Night Parade at Marine Corps Barracks

Before climbing on the bus and heading back to Texas, our last stop in Washington DC will be at the corner of 8th and I streets in Washington DC. That is the home of the oldest active post in the Marine Corps. Here we will see the weekly performance of music and precision marching and a concert by the United States Marine Band.

The website to find out more about our visit to the Marine Corps Barracks is: http://www.mbw.usmc.mil/parade_eveningdefault.asp

Use the Smart Bracelet for Cashless Purchases

For a small administrative fee, you can get a smart bracelet that will allow you to make purchases at the Jamboree without cash or credit cards. You will get a water-resistant, disposable bracelet that acts as a secure account identifier for cashless purchases during the Jamboree. IT WILL NOT WORK IN DC OR ON THE TRIP TO THE JAMBOREE OR ON THE TRIP HOME, BUT YOU CAN USE IT AT THE JAMBOREE.

Parents can manage the account from home and see what is bought and add money as needed.

Check out the web page below for more information:

http://www.bsajamboree.org/SmartBracelet.aspx

Next Jamboree Event

Our next Jambo event is the first Shakedown at Camp Pirtle on July 17th and 18th. More details will follow in a future newsletter.

Important Information for visiting the Jamboree

Check out the troop web page for detailed information if you plan to visit us at the Jamboree. In short, at the gates to the visitor parking area, the Jamboree will be collecting a $10 donation per person per day to recover the expense of visitor support, and to aid in the restoration of the site. All visitors will receive the distinctive Visitor's Patch. Special accommodations are available for groups of 8 or more (see web troop1525.org)

Visiting hours will be:

Tuesday, July 27, 9am to 5pm

Wednesday, July 28, 11am to 5pm

Thursday, July 29, to Saturday July 32, 9am to 5pm

Sunday, August 1, 1pm to 5pm

Monday, August 2 and Tuesday August 3, 9 am to 5 pm

What’s on the Troop 1525 Website

The Troop 1525 Web page is up and running. It is at www.troop1525.org. Please “become a member” of the site so you will get alerted when additions or changes are made.

Home Page: Information on Hometown News, Visiting the Jamboree, Link to rafting release, Date change notice on last shakedown, info on getting a replacement medical form,

The news page has all the newsletters, the calendar has a calendar, and we are posting pictures on the Photo Gallery. The Links page has information on everything we will be doing at the jambo and links to the web pages.

FAQ page: Info on menus, uniforms, patches, visiting, camping gear, mail, and rafting footwear.

WOW!! We leave in 100 days

GET READY FOR THE SHAKEDOWN

The first Shakedown at Camp Pirtle is on May 1st and 2nd. Troop leadership (SPL, ASPL, Quartermaster and Patrol Leaders) will arrive at Pirtle Friday evening April 30th at 6 PM. THE REMAINDER OF THE TROOP SHOULD ARRIVE AT PIRTLE ON SATURDAY MORNING AT 8:30 PREPARED TO CAMP.

GO OVER THE GEAR LIST AND BRING WHAT YOU NEED FOR THE JAMBOREE.

We will use the Jamboree tents, so you don’t need a tent. We will camp behind the pool near the call out ring at Pirtle. Be prepared for rain and other adverse conditions.

Also don’t forget a water bottle, it is starting to get warm and staying hydrated is important.

WAGONS ARE STILL NEEDED

We still need a couple of wagons. If anyone has a wagon that is in good shape that your patrol can use to fetch food for your patrol twice a day, please let me know. Probably having large tires would be beneficial. If you have one that we could use during the Jamboree, please email Matt Lindsey at [email protected]

Final Payment and Remaining Paperwork is Due

Most of you are paid in full or are very close. It is hard to believe, but your final payments are now due. Our goal is to have everyone paid up by May 1st.

Remember the next time we meet will be at the May shakedown at Pirtle. You will get your troop supplies (patches, t-shirts, hat, etc...) at that time.

If you have not completed any paperwork that was collected at the Troop meeting you should bring it to Pirtle (health form, rafting release, etc..)

Patrol Flags and items

Hopefully each patrol is making progress on your patrol flag. Also you might keep your eye open for decorations related to your patrol that you could use on your chuck box or other equipment.

Troop 1525 Member Spotlight

The spotlight for this issue will shine on Quartermaster Tyler Reed. Tyler is from the thriving metropolis of Latexo and is an active member of Troop 419 in Crocket Texas. Tyler has earned the rank of Life and is currently procrastinating on his Eagle project, but plans on earning his Eagle soon.

Tyler has recently started driving. He has served in several troop positions including the Senior Patrol Leader. He has also participated in several district and council events including serving on NYLT staff in 2009 as the quartermaster. Tyler is also an active member of the Tall Timbers Order of the Arrow chapter.

When he is not participating in scouts you might find him busy at school working with FFA or a number of other school clubs or with his Youth Group. Tyler has played basketball and enjoys camping.

So, if you need a quarter, Tyler is your man. No really, he will work with Mr. Hassell to make sure each patrol has the needed equipment for patrol activities, like cooking and eating meals.

Featured Activity- Jamboree Activities

Check out the Jamboree web page at http://www.bsajamboree.org/Activities.aspx for a list of all the activities or follow the links on the items below to get a description. Some of the activities will continue during the entire Jamboree and some are onetime events. The Jamboree offers considerable more than you can ever think about doing. This means you need to take some time and decide what is important to YOU and come up with a plan to accomplish it. Of course you need to find a buddy or two that is interested as well so you have someone to do it with.

A partial list of Jamboree Activities:

5K Fun Run, Action Alley, Action Centers, Air-Rifle Shooting, Amateur (Ham) Radio Operators, American Indian Village hosted by the Order of the Arrow, Aquatics, Archery, Bikathlon, Boys' Life, Brownsea Island Camp, Buckskin Games, Camp Thunder, Climbing Towers, Confidence Course, Conservation, Daily Ceremonies, DisAbilities Awareness (Scouts With Disabilities) Challenge, Fishing, Hometown News, Jamboree Band, Merit Badge Midway, Motocross, Mountain Boarding, National Exhibits, Order of the Arrow Jamboree Adventure: The MYSTERIUM COMPASS, Outback Centers, Pioneering, QBSA, Rappelling Tower, Subcamp Activities, Technology Quest (formerly Arts and Science Expo), Trapshooting

Next Jamboree Event

Our next Jambo event is the first Shakedown at Camp Pirtle on May 1st and 2nd. Troop leadership (SPL, ASPL, Quartermaster and Patrol Leaders) will arrive at Pirtle Friday evening April 30th at 6 PM. THE REMAINDER OF THE TROOP SHOULD ARRIVE AT PIRTLE ON SATURDAY MORNING AT 8:30 PREPARED TO CAMP.

GO OVER THE GEAR LIST AND BRING WHAT YOU NEED FOR THE JAMBOREE.

To sign up to receive the Jamboree Navigator, visit the website at www.bsajamboree.org/NewsLetters . It will ask your name, email and council number. Our council number is 585.

Personal Equipment

Scouts and Leaders- Official national jamboree uniform:

• Scout pants or shorts with scout belt

• Scout jamboree cap

• Scout shirts (short-sleeved, casual)

• Scout socks (official red top)

• Jamboree neckerchief with Jamboree neckerchief slide

• Jamboree troop numerals

• Jamboree jacket (optional) (Jamboree jacket emblem is optional.)

Required Personal Camping Equipment

1 pack

1 duffel bag—for carrying and storage of bulky items

1 day pack or other means to carry lunch

2 blankets/sheets or 1 sleeping bag (or a combination of both), and a large water-proof bag, like a garbage bag

1 air mattress

1 ground cloth

1 poncho

• Extra uniform parts (in addition to those parts of the official uniform listed)

3 sets of underwear

• Extra socks

• Laundry bag, recommended for use in a duffel bag to hold soiled clothing

2 pair of pajamas

1 swimming suit

1 pair of rubber-soled shower shoes

1 eating utensil set containing 1 knife, 1 fork, and

1 spoon

1 toilet kit containing soap in a container, comb, toothbrush, metal mirror, washcloth, and tooth paste

1 plastic washbasin

• Laundry materials (detergent in a small plastic bag)

2 hand towels

2 bath towels

1 sewing kit

1 flashlight (no flame-type lights will be permitted)

1 Scout knife

1 Bible, Testament, or prayer book according to faith

1 canteen or plastic water bottle

1 insect repellent

1 sunscreen

Optional Personal Equipment

Watch

Notebook, pen, pencil

Camera

Drinking cup (collapsible)

Shaving gear (if needed)

Musical instrument

Shoelaces (extra pair)

Air pillow (small)

Boy Scout Handbook, Fieldbook

Small personal radio or MP3 player (with earphones)

No boom boxes are allowed.

Electric lantern (spare battery and bulb)

Scout Songbook

Duffel-bag lock

Coin purse or wallet

Sunglasses

5

2 Activities Uniform

The activities uniform for youth and leaders will be a jamboree T-shirt, Scout shorts or pants, Scout socks, and Scout visored cap or jamboree cap. No Open-toed shoes.

Travel Uniform

While aboard planes, trains, buses, or autos en route, youth and leaders must wear the official national jamboree uniform.

Proper Uniforming

• Absolutely no variations in the official uniforms are to be made.

• Absolutely no hats, helmets, or caps other than those listed as the official national uniform shall be worn en route to the jamboree.

• T-shirts may be worn in troop areas, but are not proper wear at special functions.

Official Neckerchiefs and Emblems

Two jamboree emblems and one neckerchief will be issued to approved youth and their leaders. The first emblem for each individual will be sent to the council in

early summer 2009. They are to be presented to participants and may be worn on the uniform immediately. The second emblem will be sent to the council after receipt of the final national payment due on or before January 31, 2010. The neckerchief will be distributed on site.

3

Gear Notes and WAGON Search

 The jamboree site has a great gear list for you to use, that I have shared a time or two. See the list at the end of this news letter.

You might want to devote some time to finding a cot to use for the trip. Your cot needs to fold up to a reasonable size. We will be taking about 80 cots in the gear truck, so you can’t take a twin size bed.

Another item you might want to consider is a floor for your tent. A carpet remnant or a rug or a tarp would make your tent area a bit cleaner. We will be using Pirtle wall tents and they DO NOT HAVE FLOORS. Again, whatever you take needs to roll up neatly.

Finally, we need 4 or 5 wagons. If anyone has a wagon that is in good shape that your patrol can use to fetch food for your patrol twice a day, please let me know. Probably having large tires would be beneficial. If you have one that we could use during the Jamboree, please email Matt Lindsey at [email protected]

Final Payment is now due

Most of you are paid in full or are very close. It is hard to believe, but your final payments are now due. Our goal is to have everyone paid up by May 1st.

Remember the next time we meet will be at the May shakedown at Pirtle. You will get your troop supplies (patches, t-shirts, hat, etc...) at that time.

Get Jambo news from the Jamboree Navigator

To sign up to receive the Jamboree Navigator, visit the website at www.bsajamboree.org/NewsLetters . It will ask your name, email and council number. Our council number is 585.

Patrol Flags and items

Just a reminder, your patrol flag needs to be finished by the Shakedown

Troop 1525 Website

The Troop 1525 Web page is up and running. It is at www.troop1525.org. Please “become a member” of the site so you will get alerted when additions or changes are made.

Member Spotlight

The spotlight for this issue will shine on Michael Fedun. Michael is a Junior at Nacogdoches High School and lives in Nacogdoches, Texas. Michael will be the patrol leader of the Beaver Patrol.

Michael is the tall lanky fellow with a very little hair. The shiny head is for a reason- he is a swimmer. Michael is a member of the Nacogdoches High School Swim Team and served as the team captain this year. He has just wrapped up a very successful swim season. He is also a member of the Technology Students Association at NHS.

Michael is a member of Troop 100 in Nacogdoches and is getting close to completing the rank of Eagle. He has trekked at Philmont and actively camped with his unit for many years.

When he is not swimming or scouting, you might find Michael on the shotgun range practicing for a competitive shooting meet. He is also active in his church youth group.

Featured Activity- Visiting the US Capitol Building

The Capitol is among the most architecturally impressive and symbolically important buildings in the world. The Senate and the House of Representatives have met here for more than two centuries. Begun in 1793, the Capitol has been built, burnt, rebuilt, extended, and restored; today, it stands as a monument not only to its builders but also to the American people and their government.

You might notice on the website that the hours for tours are between 8:50 and 3:20. We will be touring about 6 PM after our visit to the Hard Rock. If this sounds strange, it is for a very good reason. Our tour guide has a day job and is not available before 6. Our tour guide’s day job is being our Congressman from east Texas. He is no other than Louie Gohmert. Representative Gohmert will give us a special behind the scenes tour of the capital. It will be a great visit. Be sure and notice the do’s and don’ts for visiting the capital.

The website to start planning your visit to the Capital Building is at http://www.visitthecapitol.gov/index.html

Next Jamboree Event

Our next Jambo event is the first Shakedown at Camp Pirtle on May 1st and 2nd. More details will follow in the April newsletter.

Personal Equipment

Scouts and Leaders- Official national jamboree uniform:

• Scout pants or shorts with scout belt

• Scout jamboree cap

• Scout shirts (short-sleeved, casual)

• Scout socks (official red top)

• Jamboree neckerchief with Jamboree neckerchief slide

• Jamboree troop numerals

• Jamboree jacket (optional) (Jamboree jacket emblem is optional.)

Required Personal Camping Equipment

1 pack

1 duffel bag—for carrying and storage of bulky items

1 day pack or other means to carry lunch

2 blankets/sheets or 1 sleeping bag (or a combination of both), and a large water-proof bag, like a garbage bag

1 air mattress

1 ground cloth

1 poncho

• Extra uniform parts (in addition to those parts of the official uniform listed)

3 sets of underwear

• Extra socks

• Laundry bag, recommended for use in a duffel bag to hold soiled clothing

2 pair of pajamas

1 swimming suit

1 pair of rubber-soled shower shoes

1 eating utensil set containing 1 knife, 1 fork, and

1 spoon

1 toilet kit containing soap in a container, comb, toothbrush, metal mirror, washcloth, and tooth paste

1 plastic washbasin

• Laundry materials (detergent in a small plastic bag)

2 hand towels

2 bath towels

1 sewing kit

1 flashlight (no flame-type lights will be permitted)

1 Scout knife

1 Bible, Testament, or prayer book according to faith

1 canteen or plastic water bottle

1 insect repellent

1 sunscreen

Optional Personal Equipment

Watch

Notebook, pen, pencil

Camera

Drinking cup (collapsible)

Shaving gear (if needed)

Musical instrument

Shoelaces (extra pair)

Air pillow (small)

Boy Scout Handbook, Fieldbook

Small personal radio or MP3 player (with earphones)

No boom boxes are allowed.

Electric lantern (spare battery and bulb)

Scout Songbook

Duffel-bag lock

Coin purse or wallet

Sunglasses

Activities Uniform

The activities uniform for youth and leaders will be a jamboree T-shirt, Scout shorts or pants, Scout socks, and Scout visored cap or jamboree cap. No Open-toed shoes.

Travel Uniform

While aboard planes, trains, buses, or autos en route, youth and leaders must wear the official national jamboree uniform.

Proper Uniforming

• Absolutely no variations in the official uniforms are to be made.

• Absolutely no hats, helmets, or caps other than those listed as the official national uniform shall be worn en route to the jamboree.

• T-shirts may be worn in troop areas, but are not proper wear at special functions.

Official Neckerchiefs and Emblems

Two jamboree emblems and one neckerchief will be issued to approved youth and their leaders. The first emblem for each individual will be sent to the council in

early summer 2009. They are to be presented to participants and may be worn on the uniform immediately. The second emblem will be sent to the council after receipt of the final national payment due on or before January 31, 2010. The neckerchief will be distributed on site.

Money, Money, Money

As hard as it is to believe, we only have about 6 weeks to get in the rest of our Jamboree payment. Our goal is to have everyone paid up by the first of May.

As always, if this is going to be a problem, please let me know at [email protected] what your situation is and what your plan is to make the payments. You can either drop your payment off at the council service center in Tyler or mail it in (ETAC Jamboree Payment, ‏1331 E 5th St, Tyler, TX 75701-3415‏).

We collected most of the health forms and waivers for rafting, but we are still missing a couple. If you are one of the scouts with a missing form, please get them to me as soon as possible.

Remember the next time we meet will be at the May shakedown at Pirtle. You will get your troop supplies (patches, t-shirts, etc...) at that time.

Sign up for the Jamboree Navigator

The 2010 National Scout Jamboree Committee has announced the development of the Jamboree Navigator, a monthly communication to all Jamboree participants, promoting the program opportunities at the Jamboree for Scouts to participate in and enjoy. Each person who signs up to receive this email communication will have it delivered to their inbox until July.

The Navigator will have information about programming opportunities, the Jamboree arena shows, what it is like to live at the Jamboree, and how to prepare for the experience, so each Scout will be ready for the 2010 National Scout Jamboree.

To sign up to receive the Jamboree Navigator, visit the website at www.bsajamboree.org/NewsLetters . It will ask your name, email and council number. Our council number is 585.

Patrol Flags and items

I know many of you are working on your patrol flags. You also might collect stickers or other items related to your patrol to decorate patrol equipment. It is up to each patrol, but if you see something related, you might grab it. Remember, we need to have patrol flags completed by the May Shakedown.

Troop 1525 Member Spotlight

The spotlight for this issue will shine on David Gean. David is a Freshman at Palestine High School and lives in Palestine, Texas. David has been the senior patrol leader of Troop 424 and plans on completing the requirements for Eagle by the Jamboree. David also enjoys camping and has completed NINE long term camps while in scouts.

David is in the marching band for Palestine High School. The Saxophone is his instrument of choice. He is a member of the Palestine High School Future Farmers of America and raises chickens and shows them with FFA. If you need some fun poultry facts, just ask David.

David is also active in his church and volunteers regularly at Pine Cove Christian Camp near Tyler.

Featured Activity- HARD ROCK WASHINGTON DC CAFE

Located in the heart of our nation’s capital, Hard Rock Cafe's "Embassy of Rock-n-Roll" opened its doors on January 1, 1990 and has been creating raving fans ever since! It is conveniently located next to Fords Theater, across from the FBI building, and just a short walk from Metro Center, The White House, Capital Hill, and the Smithsonian Museums, Hard Rock Cafe is both a perfect stop on your sightseeing adventure and a unique late night hang out for DC locals. Complete your tour of the city with an authentic rock-n-roll dining experience. You'll be surrounded by 17 plasma displays as you dine with the stars and marvel at the world famous collection of memorabilia. Visit the Rock Shop, where you'll find everything from edgy new rock-n-roll garb and hot accessories, to traditional favorites. Choose from world famous Classic T's, Collectable Pins and Specialty Glassware. Be yourself, speak your mind and let rock-n-roll do the rest.

Hard Rock Cafe Washington, DC where you don't have to BE a rock star to party like one! To start planning your visit, check out http://www.hardrock.com/locations/cafes3/cafe.aspx?LocationID=102&MIBEnumID=3

Next Jamboree Event

Our next Jambo event is the first Shakedown at Camp Pirtle on May 1st and 2nd. More details will follow in the April newsletter.

Troop 1525 Website

The Troop 1525 Web page is up and running. It is at www.troop1525.org. Please “become a member” of the site so you will get alerted when additions or changes are made.

East Texas Area Council Jamboree Troop 1525 Newsletter

FEBRUARY 18, 2010

NUMBER 6

Contact Information for Troop Leaders

Scoutmaster Matt Lindsey [email protected] 903-262-8043

First Assistant Greg Tate [email protected] 936-462-7545

Second Assistant Rory Hassell [email protected] 936-208-2248

Third Assistant Stephen Head

Next event: Troop meeting on Feb. 28th

IMPORTANT! IMPORTANT! IMPORTANT! IMPORTANT!

MEDICAL FORMS ARE DUE AT THE FEBRUARY SCOUT MEETING

You should have a medical form from the Jamboree by now. It was emailed to you from the Jamboree. Each person attending the Jamboree is being supplied with a customized bar coded form. The only way to get it is by email from the folks at National. DO NOT USE ANY OTHER FORM. If you need a new form, see the troop web page for instructions on how to get it.

Medical forms need to be turned into Matt Lindsey, the Troop 1525 scoutmaster. You can turn it in at the Troop meeting on February 28th or mail it to him at:

Matt Lindsey

710 Norma Street

Nacogdoches TX 75965.

We have to fax them into National on March 1st, so the troop meeting is your last chance to turn them in.

Date Change for Final Jamboree Shakedown

The date for the final shakedown is being moved from June to July 16th, 17th, and 18th. The good news is that we were meeting at Pirtle that weekend anyway to deliver gear and pack the truck. I am sure that many of you have arranged your schedule around the previous dates, so if this is creating a major conflict, please let me know at [email protected] The earlier date was creating a major conflict with summer camp.

Lightning and Tigers and Bears Oh My!

We will be picking patrol names, designing patrol flags and coming up with patrol yells at the February Troop meeting. Each patrol will determine what the patrol name will be. One of the 40 official patrol names has to be used, but you have your choice of those.

If you have a favorite and have art work or related designs that you can use on a flag, bring your designs and artwork to the Troop meeting.

You can pick from the following: Alligator, Antelope, Badger, Bat, Bear, Beaver, Bison, Bobcat, Bobwhite, Cobra, Dragon, Eagle, Flaming Arrow, Flying Eagle. Fox, Frog, Frontiersman , Hawk, Indian, Liberty, Lightning, Moose, Owl, Panther, Pedro, Pheasant , Pine Tree, Raccoon, Ram, Rattlesnake, Raven, Roadrunner , Scorpion, Shark, Stag, Tiger, Viking, Wolf, Wolverine.

We’re on the Web!

troop1525.org

Troop 1525 Member Spotlight

The spotlight for this issue will shine on Mason Wheeler. Mason is a Patrol Leader for Troop 1525. He is a member of Troop 518 in Lufkin, Texas and is a Junior at Hudson High School. He also does Geo Caching with Crew 3191 in Hudson.

Mason is a member of the Pirtle Summer Camp Staff. He will be staffing at the First Class Trail area this summer, so if you visit Pirtle, be on the lookout for him. Mason has attended Sea Base and participated in a Philmont Order of the Arrow Trail Crew Trek last summer.

Mason likes music. He enjoys listening and singing. So if you are at Pirtle this summer that other voice singing in the morning with Brother Tom just might be Mason.

Featured Activity- Arlington Cemetery

On our final day in Washington DC, we will start the morning by visiting the Tomb of the Unknown Soldiers and participating in a Wreath Laying Ceremony. A representative from our Troop will place the wreath at the monument that day. We will also witness the Changing of the Guards at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldiers. http://www.arlingtoncemetery.org/visitor_information/tomb_of_the_unknowns.html

Payments- $$$

Don’t forget to send in your February Jambo payment if you have not already done it. You can either drop your payment off at the council service center in Tyler or mail it in (ETAC Jamboree Payment, ‏1331 E 5th St, Tyler, TX 75701-3415‏).

Next Jamboree Event

Our next Jambo event is a Jamboree Troop 1525 meeting on February 28th in Nacogdoches from 3 to 5 PM. It will be at the Sacred Heart Catholic Church in the Margill Center. In addition to some troop activities we will divide into patrols, pick patrol names, and some other patrol functions. Maps are on the troop web page.

Please wear your uniform to the meeting. Parents are invited to attend as well.

Troop 1525 Website

The Troop 1525 Web page is up and running. It is at www.troop1525.org. Please “become a member” of the site so you will get alerted when additions or changes are made.

Parent Committee Help

If you have not volunteered or been asked to help on one of the parent committees, it is not too late. Just email [email protected] and make your request.

East Texas Area Council Jamboree Troop 1525 Newsletter

JANUARY 29, 2010  NUMBER 5

Contact Information for Troop Leaders

Scoutmaster Matt Lindsey [email protected] 903-262-8043

First Assistant Greg Tate [email protected] 936-462-7545

Second Assistant Rory Hassell [email protected] 936-208-2248

Third Assistant Stephen Head

Next event: Troop meeting on Feb. 28th

Troop 1525 Website

The Troop 1525 Web page is up and running. It is at www.troop1525.org. Invitations were sent to everyone on January 11, 2010 but if you did not get it, email [email protected] and ask for an invite to the website. Each of the newsletters are posted at the site. As questions come up, I will post the answer for everyone to see as well. Please visit the web page often. Please “become a member” of the site so you will get alerted when additions or changes are made.

IMPORTANT MEDICAL FORM INFORMATION

You should have a medical form from the Jamboree by now. It was emailed to you from the Jamboree. It went to the email address that YOU provided when you signed up on myscouting.org. You might also check your spam folder for it. You can get more information about the medical forms at the following National Jamboree web page: http://www.bsajamboree.org/MedicalProcess.aspx

Medical forms need to be turned into Matt Lindsey, the Troop 1525 scoutmaster. You can turn it in at the Troop meeting on February 28th or mail it to him at 710 Norma Street, Nacogdoches TX 75965. We have to fax them into National on March 1st, so the troop meeting is your last chance to turn them in.

You MUST use the form that was emailed to you. This is the only way to get your medical form. DO NOT USE ANY OTHER FORM. We do not have paper forms and other scout forms WILL NOT WORK. If you did not get it, send your name and scout ID number to [email protected] . It will be resent to whatever email address you have on record.

You must be approved by your local council in the registration system. This is separate from registration and payment functions. Once the registration system is updated with council approval, a medical record will be generated automatically in about two weeks. It will come to the e-mail you have entered in your registration. YOU control what the email is. You may verify it via www.myscouting.org  .

 Log on to your MyScouting account.

 Select Event Registration then Select National Scout Jamboree.

 Select the appropriate EDIT form and Enter your registration code, including the dashes (the 20-digit number on your confirmation).

 This will open your application and you can update your e-mail, etc.

If you do ask for a resend, please include the name and member ID of you or your son, not the registration code. Please request this via [email protected]  . Due to high volume, please allow up to two weeks for processing.

We’re on the Web!    www.troop1525.org

Troop 1525 Member Spotlight

The spotlight for this issue will shine on Myles Elbel. Myles is the Assistant Senior Patrol Leader for Troop 1525. He is a member of Troop 518 in Lufkin, Texas and is a Junior at Hudson High School.

Myles is an Eagle Scout and a Vigil member in the Order of the Arrow. He is currently serving as the Lodge Chief for Tejas Lodge. He has served as a Lodge Vice Chief and as the Chapter Chief for Tall Timbers. Myles has worked at Camp Pirtle on staff for the last two summers and plans on returning to the water front again this summer. So if you plan on taking a water-front merit badge at Pirtle be on the lookout for him. Myles has attended Sea Base and participated in a Philmont Order of the Arrow Trail Crew Trek last summer.

Myles likes all types of outdoor activities and even constructed his own kayak by hand to explore local lakes and rivers. He is a tennis player and enjoys drawing and painting. The next time you are at Pirtle, you can check out his art work on the door of the trading post. Myles is currently dual enrolled in college courses at Angelina College while taking his high school classes.

Featured Activity- Whitewater Rafting

On our way to the Jamboree and on the way home we will enjoy two white water rafting adventures. Check out www.noc.com and click on the whitewater rafting tab. We will be rafting on the Pigeon River and the Ocoee River. These rivers were used for competitions in the 1996 Atlanta Olympics.

Payments- $$$

Don’t forget to send in your February Jambo payment if you have not already done it. You can either drop your payment off at the council service center in Tyler or mail it in (ETAC Jamboree Payment, ‏1331 E 5th St, Tyler, TX 75701-3415‏ ).

Next Jamboree Event

Our next Jambo event is a Jamboree Troop 1525 meeting on February 28th in Nacogdoches from 3 to 5 PM. It will be at the Sacred Heart Catholic Church in the Margill Center. In addition to some troop activities we will divide into patrols, pick patrol names, and some other patrol functions. Maps are on the troop web page.

Major Date Change for Final Jamboree Shakedown

The date for the final shakedown is being moved from June to July 16th, 17th, and 18th. The good news is that we were meeting at Pirtle that weekend anyway to deliver gear and pack the truck. I am sure that many of you have arranged your schedule around the previous dates, so if this is creating a major conflict, please let me know at [email protected]. The earlier date was creating a major conflict with summer camp.

Parent Committee Help

If you have not volunteered or been asked to help on one of the parent committees, it is not too late. Just email [email protected] and make your request.

East Texas Area Council Jamboree

Training Weekend Summary and Review

Southside Baptist Church

October 10, 2009

On behalf of the Jamboree committee, scoutmasters and assistant scoutmasters, I would like to let all the scouts and parents know that we really enjoyed getting to finally meet everyone in attendance in person for the first time and we are looking forward to meeting the remainder of the group soon. We thought it would be important to recap the highlights from the event for everyone in attendance and to summarize the information for those of you who could not attend. Please contact any of us if you have additional questions or need clarifications.

First, we confirmed that we had the supplemental application from all participants. IF YOU DID NOT TURN THIS IN, PLEASE SEND IT TO THE COUNCIL OFFICE ASAP.

We also reviewed what payments have been made to date. If you were not in attendance, you can check with the council service center if you are not sure. As of the end of October, you should have made a $100 deposit and the October payment of $250. The November payment is now due. Of course if you want to pay the balance at anytime, that is great.

We also took pictures with names of all participants. If you did not attend or did not get your picture taken, please send us one. You can send it to [email protected] .

KEY DATES and EVENTS

Jan. 16 Shakedown day at Pirtle THIS EVENT WILL BE CHANGED to later in the spring and will probably be a Troop meeting and will only last a couple of hours.

WE WILL NOT MEET AT PIRTLE IN JANUARY.

April 30-May 1 Shakedown Campout at Pirtle (Time is TBD)

June 18-19 Shakedown Campout at Pirtle (Time is TBD)

July 17-18 Load Equipment onto truck (Time is TBD)

July 23 3:00pm Troops Depart (Time is estimated and might change a bit)

August 8, Sun 6:00 pm Troop arrives for Closing Ceremony Location & time TBD

Parents were asked to volunteer to help with a number of needed activities critical to the success of the Jamboree contingent. Parents were asked to rank each committee in terms of preference and provide any contact information that was not already provided (different cell phone or email from the scout application).The committees are:

- Newsletter and communications- assist with on-going communication and keep people informed during the Jamboree.

- Gateways- help refurbish the gateways that are in storage at Pirtle

- Load and unload shipping truck- gear will be shipped a few days before the Jambo

- Procure Troop and Patrol Gear- Cooking and other gear needs to be obtained

- Troop Banners- Identify unit in campsite- Design and print

- Friendship Giveaways -decide on and acquire freebees for scouts to trade

- Fundraising for Tents and Dining flys

- Food and Beverages- Plan and prepare food items for events, including travel

- Closing Court of Honor-Plan and set up

- Shakedown Event support

- Anything that is needed

If you were not at the meeting or did not request a committee, please let us know ASAP. We have started contacting folks to help head up the groups. This is a situation, when more is better. The more we have working on it, the better. We had a pretty good response on all the committees except fund raising, gear appropriations and Gateways. So if you have experience in the fund raising department or have access to gear suppliers please consider these two groups. The gateways are built, we just need some folks to assemble them and make sure they are in order and maybe repaint them.

The itinerary is very close to being finalized. When it is done, we will be able to provide a final amount for the cost. We are trying to get this cost out in the next few weeks.

We discussed youth leadership positions. We need to know ASAP if you want a leadership position in the Jamboree troop. If you did not tell us at the meeting, please let us know if you want to be a Senior Patrol Leader, Assistant Senior Patrol Leader, Patrol Leader, Assistant Patrol Leader, Scribe or Quartermaster, or Chaplain. You need to tell us if you are interested in a position to be considered.

Finally, we reviewed the Code of Conduct that each scout agreed to in the application process. If you did attend the meeting or are not clear, the Code of Conduct will be enforced. We are not only trying to make sure that you have a great time, we want the other 39 people in your troop to have a great time as well. One item we want to reinforce is the “No electronics” rule. This includes cell phones. The main reason for this is our lack of ability to secure valuables. (In 2005 cell coverage was generally sparse. )

If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact Matt Lindsey at 903-262-8043 or Geoffrey Willbanks at 903-571-7814.