Fort Mifflin Update

We hope that everyone is excited to be sleeping over at historic Fort Mifflin this weekend.  We are!  Before I go on to give you the final details, I have had a several people asking if there was anything they should bring or would it be ok to bring a snack. The answer is yes, you are free to bring snacks if you would like.  While we don’t require you to bring any extras, if you wish to contribute and bring something here are some suggestions;

  • Bottled Water:  You can never have too much and whatever extra you have you can take back home.
  • Firewood:  Scouts love to burn firewood. Bring as much as you want/can.  The fort is always accepting donations of firewood so nothing you bring will go to waste.
  • Snacks: *NO PEANUTS – WE HAVE PEANUT ALLERGIES IN THE PACK*  The boys could eat snacks all day, every day.  Be sure that what you choose to bring is covered and protected from the elements, temperature etc…  Someone mentioned soft pretzels. This is fine but please be sure you let people know right away because they may not make it through the night without getting stale etc…

Now on to the details:

Arrival Time:

Feel free to arrive around 5:00.  Upon arrival you will need to set up your tent as soon as possible.  Older boys will be expected to help out with the younger boys as well as assist with preparing the campfire and dinner.  We will have dinner and as the sun sets those going on the ghost tour will shortly begin their tour. There will not be a lot of time as many people have work and so forth so be sure to help each other out.

Weather:

We are expecting a nice clear Friday night and Saturday morning.  The overnight low is expected to be around 60 degrees but keep in mind we are at the river front. Being on the water means it can get a bit chilly.  However it should be a pleasant night.  Clouds are expected to start rolling in around 1:00 – 2:oo pm on Saturday with a chance of rain increasing until around 7pm when there is a call for some thunderstorms.  PLEASE KEEP IN MIND: While it looks as if we are in the clear weather wise, things can change at any moment… BE PREPARED!

Food:

For Friday dinner we are having hot dogs and beans.  We understand this is a late arrival time for many so if you get hungry please do not feel obligated to wait until we get set up and get dinner ready. You can grab/bring something else if you desire. For Saturday’s breakfast (around 7:00 am) we will be having hot & cold cereal, pancakes, sausage, milk, juice, pancakes, hot chocolate and coffee.

Shelter:

We will be tent camping.

What to Bring:

First we will start with what Fort Mifflin recommends…

  • Comfortable bedding, including pillow (an air mattress is a good idea.)
  • Drinking Water (we only have non-potable water.)
  • Your Favorite Snacks
  • Flash Light
  • Your own tent and/or cot (if you plan to sleep outside.)
  • Warm clothing in the cooler months and rain gear if it has rained in the last 24 hours, especially boots and extra socks.)

Now we are scouts so we believe in being prepared, right?  We compiled a list of items for last April’s camping trip that not only included items each boy should carry with them but also a more comprehensive list for camping and/or overnighters.  You can find that list at http://cubpack155.org/x/1o

Directions to Fort Mifflin:

From Downtown Philadelphia –
South on I-95, take Exit 15 Island Avenue/Enterprise Avenue. At end of exit ramp, you will be on Enterprise Avenue. At stop sign turn left onto Fort Mifflin Road. Follow road, through short tunnel, to the first left turn. After left hand turn, follow signs straight into the Fort. Free Parking is on the left.

From Delaware County –
North on I-95, take Exit 13 – Valley Forge/West 291. Bear right and follow sign for Island Avenue. At traffic light (Hilton Hotel on left corner), turn left onto Island Avenue. At stop sign turn left onto Enterprise Avenue. At stop sign, turn right onto Fort Mifflin Road. Follow road, through short tunnel, to the first left turn. After left hand turn, follow signs straight into the Fort. Free Parking is on the left.

Fort Mifflin Camping Trip – LAST CALL

This is the last call for the Fort Mifflin Camping trip.  I need a final headcount and payment yesterday. Well yesterday may not work so lets aim for Tuesday. I have to turn the information and payment in to the fort next Friday.  So this really is the last call.

If I do not hear from you, ASAP, I am going to assume you are not going to go.

The cost of this camping trip is $35 per camper, however the Fort is offering ghost tours for an additional $5 per person.  The ghost tour is an optional add on and not required to camp at the fort.  Your $35 will includes the following;

What’s Included in the price of $35 per person):

  • Overnight Stay at Fort Mifflin
  • Personal guided tour of the fort in the company of a Revolutionary War soldier
  • Uniform and Weapons demonstrations
  • Access to the Nature Trails and riverfront High Battery Area
  • Allowance of individual and small group exploration throughout the Fort & surrounding areas.
  • Breakfast provided by the fort (hot & cold cereal, milk, juice, pancakes, sausage & hot beverages)
  • Dinner (provided by us)
  • Campfire Activities
  • Free Parking
  • Possible lowering and raising of the Fort’s garrison flag
  • An Artillery Demonstration (paid for by Pack 155 and guest units)
  • A Saturday hike through the nature trails.

Note: There are bathroom facilities inside the fort however it is important to know that the water at Fort Mifflin is not potable. So you will need to bring plenty of drinking water.

Full details for the camping trip can be found at:  http://cubpack155.org/x/1V

  • Tent/Cot
  • Comfortable bedding, including pillow.
  • Drinking Water (again the water at the fort is non-potable)
  • Snacks
  • Flash Light
  • Warm clothing in cooler months
  • Rain gear if it has rained in the past 24 hours, especially boots & extra socks.

However, as scouts we would bring more than that.  Here is a sample list of basics to bring camping: http://cubpack155.org/x/1o

Again, I can not stress the importance of getting your headcount and payment to me ASAP.  If you have any issues or concerns please contact me.  I can reached by email (cubmaster (at) cubscoutpack1776.org or via telephone (215/948/2269)

 

Riversharks Rain Date

Just a reminder that the raindate for the Riversharks is this Friday, August 24th

Camden Riversharks

IMPORTANT INFORMATION

Tickets:

Tim O’Keefe will be in front of the box office at 5:45 PM to give out tickets if you did not recieve them.  He will be wearing his Pack 155 Class B Tshirt.  Tim will be going into the game no later than 6:10 PM.  YOU MUST MEET HIM BEFORE THEN.  If anyone wishes to meet with him before 5:45 to get their tickets they can reach him on his cell phone 215_219_0059.

The Parade:

The parade is at 6:15 PM and will meet at the visitors dugout along the 3rd baseline.  The Cub Scouts who wish to participate in the parade should wear their Class A Shirts.  It is recommended that they wear their Class B shirt underneath to wear during the game.

Release Form:

Everyone is require to sign a release form.  One is attached to this post for you to print and fill out. Tim will have additional copies with him at the game.

Overnight Packet (click link to the left)

NOTE: PLEASE SEE THE EVENT PAGE FOR UPDATED INFORMATION IN DETAIL, http://cubpack155.org/x/1S

 

 

Hiking Success!

First I would like to thank all those who attended the hike. It was a tough call waiting until the last minute to decide if we were going to hike or not but God was rooting for us and the weather panned out nice.  We got off to a late start and covered three miles.  While it was about 2 miles less than planned we did hit some pretty rugged trails making those 3 miles easily feel like 5-6; some of those climbs definitely got the heart pumping making for a great little work out for all.

Naturally we took several hydration breaks, had a nice lunch 130′ feet up at Indian Lookout and explored nature learning about poison plants, the state flower and more.  we had a decent turn out of family members who joined us as well; parents, grandparents and siblings.

We’d like to thank everyone that came out.  Due to your participation in today’s hike the pack met all requirements for the National Summertime Activity Award acknowledging that our pack offered a quality year round program.  50% of our scouts earned the individual national summertime award by participating in one pack activity a month through June, July & August and a couple of our Dens also earned the honor by having a 50% participation rate, meaning at least half of the den attended at least 1 activity per month.

We are hiking today

Baloo HikingThe call for thunderstorms has passed and the sun is peeking out.  While we may get a sprinkle or two we can still hike.  Due to the last minute call we will be meeting up 30 minutes later; 9:30 instead of 9:00 — but again WE ARE HIKING!

Don’t forget to bring what you need.  See you soon!!!

Fort Mifflin Camping Trip

We hope everyone is enjoying their summer as it comes to a close.  Rest assured that while summer comes to a close and its time to hit those books again, Scouting season ramps up and what better way to ramp up than a good camping trip for our returning scouts?

All of the specifics can be found over on he event page but this post is to remind you that we need to get your head counts and start collecting the money.  We are required to pay the fort in advance, so it is imperative that we get a headcount ASAP and get the money together.  We are hiking next weekend (August 18th) at Wissahickon Park.  Please turn in your headcounts and make payments that day.

A quick reminder, the cost is $35/per person, $40 if you plan on doing the ghost tour. The following is included in the cost.

  • Overnight Stay at Fort Mifflin
  • Personal guided tour of the fort in the company of a Revolutionary War soldier
  • Uniform and Weapons demonstrations
  • Access to the Nature Trails and riverfront High Battery Area
  • Allowance of individual and small group exploration throughout the Fort & surrounding areas.
  • Breakfast provided by the fort (hot & cold cereal, milk, juice, pancakes, sausage & hot beverages)
  • Dinner (provided by us)
  • Campfire Activities
  • Free Parking
  • Possible lowering and raising of the Fort’s garrison flag

Please contact me ASAP via email (cubmaster at cubscoutpack1776.org), phone or via the contact form on this page and let us know if you are going and how many you are bringing with you.

Resources

Event Page: http://cubpack155.org/x/1V

What to Bring Camping: http://cubpack155.org/x/1o

Wissahickon Hike

Akela HikingAs we approach our final Summer Activity, it is now time to start getting yourself in hiking mode.  Let’s start with some details about the hike itself.  We will be hiking approximately 4-5 miles in Wissahickon Park.  The hike will begin and end at the Valley Green Inn.  There will be several stops to take a drink and a longer stop for lunch.  With stops and lunch the hike should take approximately 4-5 hours.

Wissahickon Park is a scenic and scout friendly park. There is a lot of nature to see as we stroll through the scenic river gorge with statues, large rocks, streams and enough natural views to have you disbelieving that you are still in the city of Philadelphia.

As with any other scouting event, preparation is key. It is august and naturally it will be a hot summer day.  Maintaining hydration, adequate energy levels and protecting your skin are the three most important things to keep in mind. EVERY Person, youth & adult, will be required to carry a filled water bottle with them as well has have some trail snacks and a bagged lunch with them.

Remember you will need to carry whatever you bring for the entire 5-6 miles so it is important to not overdo it. Each boy should be able to carry his own gear. If there is any doubt then it is recommended that he bring a backpack to carry his stuff.  Certain items will be necessary to keep on his person.

So what do you need to bring along?  Let’s get right down to it…Baloo Hiking

  • Water
  • Scout Cap
  • Class A or Class B uniform
  • Long Pants
  • Good Walking/Hiking shoes
  • Spare Socks
  • Water
  • Water Bottle filled with WATER ONLY
  • Trail Snacks (No Sugary Snacks)
  • Bagged Lunch (nothing heavy, may use sports drink otherwise no sugary drinks)
  • Water
  • Sunscreen
  • Bug Spray
  • Pocket First Aid Kit
  • Whistle (in case they fall off and get lost)
  • Water
  • Oh and don’t forget some water.

Some additional information that you may find useful

  • Hiking Safety
    • Always tell someone where you are going and when you will return.
    • Never hike alone or at night; use the buddy system.
    • Dress properly for the weather and environment.
    • Wear sun and insect protection
    • Take an extra pair of socks in case you need to change.
    • Obey traffic signs and signals.
    • Avoid hiking along roadways.
    • Stay on the trail.
    • Be alert to your surroundings.
    • Don’t litter as you hike.
    • Be alert to dangerous animals, insects, and plants. Never touch a wild animal.
    • Take 1 pint of water for each hour you will be hiking. Never drink untreated water.

You can find examples of hiking food here:  http://www.hikingdude.com/hiking-food.php

With a trail mix recipe here: http://www.hikingdude.com/trail-mix-recipe.php

Information on Hiking gear can be found here: http://www.hikingdude.com/hiking-gear.php

*** PLEASE SEE THE CALENDAR EVENT FOR DETAILS ***

Directions From Roosevelt Blvd (Northeast Philadelphia)
Take Roosevelt Blvd. until you reach the Henry Avenue/Fox Avenue exit. Right on Fox. Left on Queen Lane. Right on Henry Avenue. Go North on Henry Avenue, follow approximately 4 miles until you reach Wise’s Mill Rd. Turn right on Wise’s Mill Road. This will take you down to Forbidden Drive. (you can only travel one way) Follow Forbidden drive until you reach parking lot. (1/4 mile) The Valley Green is 100 yards from this parking lot.

Pennsylvania Renaissance Faire Update

 Hail and well met! Come ye hither for tonnes of merriment! Prepare for a time when we greeted kings & queens, sword fighting was rampant, mud throwing was still dirty and you could have a swashbuckling good time.

We can arrive at the campsite between 4pm & 9pm.  Keep in mind that parking is not next to the site so you will need to walk and carry your supplies to the camp site.  There is a link to a map below so you can see where the parking lot is in relation to the camp site.

We are able to bring food and cook on site so I will be bringing my camp stove.  Make sure to either have dinner before arriving Wednesday evening or bring it with you. Also be sure to bring Thursday’s breakfast and lunch with you. They do have an area for keeping lunch coolers so if you do have a cooler with you be sure it is tagged with your name and Pack 155. The Faire will have  concession stands available on Thursday but this will not be until after 9:00 pm.  The cost of meals purchased will average $6-8 per person. Again, you can find a link to their menus below.

We are encouraged to dress up if we like. I would suggest if the boys would like, they dress as pirates. Though no weapons, They are allowed a cardboard sword or hook ( as per Faire rules). Make sure we are in clothes that can get dirty as you will see in the schedule attached below. You May even want to bring a change for the end of the day.

Since we will be sleeping under the stats it is important that you bring the appropriate supplies as usual. Here are item lists that are essential for a safe and enjoyable event.

OUTDOOR ESSENTIALS FOR CUB SCOUTS

  • Personal First Aid Kit
  • Filled Water Bottle
  • Flashlight w/spare batteries & bulb
  • Whistle
  • Rain Gear
  • Sunscreen

**If you or your child need any medications be sure to bring them and store them in a zip lock bag.**

What you have above, is the basics necessary for taking care of yourself outdoors. It is vital to always have the above with your regardless of the activity type you are participating in.  Now for our camping trip the following items, in addition to the items above, are necessary for this weekend to be a successful and safe weekend.

  • Class B Uniform (Pack t-shirt).
  • Backpack for your gear
  • Clothes to sleep in (pajamas or sweats – note it can still get chilly)
  • Sweatshirt and/or Jacket
  • Rain Gear (jacket and pants preferred over poncho)
  • Extra shoes, socks & underwear.
  • Extra set of clothes
  • Tent, poles, and stakes
  • Waterproof ground cloth (tarp or plastic sheet)
  • Sleeping bag
  • Sleeping Pad
  • Pillow
  • Extra blanket (optional but could be necessary).
  • Insect Repellent
  • Sunscreen
  • Cup or Mug
  • Toilet paper (remove tube, crush and put in zip lock  bag)
  • Toothbrush and Toothpaste
  • Soap, washcloth, towel
  • Good Attitude!

OPTIONAL FAMILY ITEMS

  • Camp/Lawn chairs
  • Lantern
  • cooler/ice chest

Resources:

Here are some links for further information as well as some fun stuff for the little campers

 

BounceU Update

For those that signed up and paid for BounceU tomorrow night please be sure to bring socks.  Your child will not be allowed to bounce without socks. Also your parents *MUST* be present long enough to sign a waiver.  Every child must have a waiver signed by a responsible adult or they will not be able to bounce.

We begin at 7:00 pm; both Tim & Tom will be there by 6:30 pm.  The pizza for those bouncing will be served around 8:30pm so that no one gets sick bouncing.

BounceU – Last Call

Just want to make a last call for those interested in going to BounceU before we give our final headcount and pay on Monday or Tuesday of next week.

You can find all of the details at http://cubpack155.org/x/1R

It is our last Summer Time Activity for July so if you didn’t attend Summer Day Camp or Summer Resident Camp this is your only event opportunity for July.  It is $10 per child (adults don’t pay unless they plan on bouncing and/or eating).

It should be a fun time for all.

Please contact Tom Sytsma or Timothy O’Keefe if you need to get on the list.