Edward N. Cole Canoe Base
Encyclopedia
Great Lakes Council serves Scouts in southeast Michigan.
On August 4, 2009 the Detroit Area Council and the Clinton Valley Council voted to merge into a new council serving Macomb
, Oakland
, and Wayne Counties
. The new Council was officially started on October 1, 2009. on November 10, 2009, after a month long contest, the new name Great Lakes Council was selected to represent the new council.
ranch located in Metamora, Michigan
. D-bar-A Scout Ranch is one of four camps owned by the Great Lakes Council.
located on the southern border of Lapeer County
. The camp measures approximately 1700 acres (7 km²) of wilderness. The Flint River
runs through the northeast side of camp through the camporee field.
In 2007, Great Lakes Council announced its "Go Green" campaign. This project started at D-bar-A and will continue into the rest of the council's projects. They will no longer be using disposables in the dining facilities, among other earth saving projects.
The cabin sites are : Arrowhead, Beaver Creek, Chippewa, Christoph, Clearwater, Dan Beard, Draper, Eagles Nest, Fair Oaks, Forest Edge, Frischkorn, High Point, Hill Top, Hunters Creek, Indianwood, Jack Lord, James E. West, Johnstone, Lakeview, Lang, Little Prairie, Meadows, Oakridge, Rawhide, Shady Oaks, Tall Timbers, Trout Lake and Williams.
The tent sites are: Aspen Grove, Cow Camp, Eastwood, Forester, Grandview, Hawthorne Hill, Highland, Migisi, Ribble House, Riverside, Skyline, Treasure Oaks, Wispering Trees and Brookside.
Lockwood Lake is the largest of the three lakes on the property along with Trout Lake and Beaver Lake and it is used by the Scouts for all of their aquatic activities. Although cabins exist in the Lockwood Lake region, the Scouts often shelter in tents, except for winter events. Facilities also exist for shooting sports, ecology conservation, and aquatics.
The Jack Lord area is used primarily for Boy Scouting and Cub Scouting summer camp activities including swimming, canoeing, archery, BB guns, rifle & shotgun, nature & conservancy education, crafts, climbing & bouldering, horseback riding and Suttler's Trading Company (trading post). A number of cabins, and tent sites are located in this area, as well as a new shower house and the James Hay pavilion and dining hall. The Jack Lord fire bowl hosts special events, skits and the end-of-camp bonfire. Starting in 2009 and to completed in 2010, Migisi Opawgan, one of the Great Lakes Council Order of the Arrow lodges, will be building a new fire bowl, that will sit right on Lockwood Lake.
During the week-long programs, each of the various activity areas offers instruction in various merit badges
, as well as other certifications. Please check with official Great Lakes Council sources for the most up to date information regarding its current merit badge schedule.
*
indicates an Eagle-required merit badge
Horseback riding is availible throughout the year. During the Summer rides leave from the Silver Spur Corral and during the rest of the year they leave from the barns near the main entrance.
Flag Ceremonies take place before breakfast and before dinner every day of the week, allowing Scouts and leaders to experience a demonstration of respect of the flag of the United States, as well as any other flags being flown on the flag pole. Staff or troops are asked to do a skit or interactive song before the ceremony starts. This usually occurs 10 to 30 minutes before the ceremony if indeed a troop arrives for the ceremony that far in advance. During the ceremony, the majority of the staff lines up in front of the Jack Lord administration building facing the Hay Pavilion. The "A Team" lines up in two ranks perpendicular to the staff, facing the flag pole. The units visiting the camp line up by unit on the north side of the flag pole facing the Jack Lord administration building parking lot and flag pole. Following the raising of the flag, the units and staff are given the order to stand "at ease," and the Program Director makes his way to the units for various announcements. On the first day of camp, this is to welcome everyone to camp. On the last day of camp, he steps forward to thank the units for attending camp and provide other relevant information. The flags usually flown include the United States
flag and the D-bar-A Scout Ranch flag.
Western day is a ranch traditional festivity held every Wednesday evening in the Jack Lord Field area. There are cooking demos, corral rides, horse drawn wagon rides, branding, religious awards display, & Order of the Arrow display. Other activities include the BB gun range, bull wrangling, and tug-o-war. Campers and guests at Western Day decide who is the next D-bar-A Scout Ranch Iron Chef, in an Iron Chef
-like event.
Silent Swim is an aquatic obstacle course held at Lockwood Lake. During the Teddy Bear Swim, Scouts and Scouters swim in the lake at 6:30am, much earlier than is normally permitted. A fishing derby takes place on Tuesday evening.
The Pedro Trail is seven miles long with two optional loops that bring the total length to ten miles. Upon completion, trail medals and patches may be purchased at Suttler’s Trading Company.
Flu-flu archery demonstrations are held at the archery range, demonstrating the use of Flu-Flu Arrow
s to hit moving targets.
During the Explosion of the Arts, Scouts bring their stories, poems, instruments, and voice to the crafts area. They will be able to share a poem, play an instrument, or tie-dye shirts. On Tuesdays, Scouts travel down the camp road to the Martorona Pavilion for art and craft explosion.
The competition for the Longhorn Award lasts the duration of the week-long summer camp. It is awarded to the unit judged to have the most spirit. Carrying unit flags, displaying patrol flags, giving the patrol yell, singing songs, and engaging in other demonstrations of enthusiasm all contribute to a troop's chances for success.
Marsh Madness is part of the Eco/Con merit badges, where Scouts investigate the bio-system of the marsh
es in camp. This event usually leads to all involved being covered in muck from the bottom of the marsh. Originally called the "Swamp Tromp," the name was changed when it was determined that the camp did not have swamps, but rather marshes. Eco/Con LIVE is an outdoor activity that takes place Sunday evenings at the Carl Piel Chapel, immediately following the Vesper service. The Eco/Con Staff shows various reptiles and their abilities.
Vespers is a service held on Sunday evening at the Carl Piel Chapel or Hay Pavilion in case of inclement weather. This consists of a non-denominational Christian
Scripture service. Many Scouts and staff attend vespers.
On Monday, a movie is played for Scouts and Scoutmasters to enjoy. New releases have not been the theme of Monday Movie Night in recent years, and the camp usually chooses one movie and repeats that movie for the entire course of the summer.
The Friday Camp Wide Activity is a Friday tradition. Down at Lockwood, activities such canoe pull, watermelon scramble, and various other water based fun. The entire event is not complete until the Lockwood Regatta is held, where units build a raft out of material found only at camp. One of the riders on the raft, must be at least 18, and be in full complete uniform.
Following the closing flag retreat, troops process out to the Jack Lord Fire bowl for the celebratory closing campfire.
This closes the week at camp, and troops break camp and return home the following morning.
The Yucca Trail is a horseback riding program that takes scouts for four days and three nights of riding. During the course of this program scouts will be able to earn the horsemanship merit badge while exploring much of the unseen areas of the camp. Each scout is assigned one horse to ride for the trip. In addition to riding the scouts learn to take care of their horses including taking shifts at night to feed and look after the animals.
The Ranch Hand program is a week long program where scouts can work along side the camp's wrangler staff and learn about how a ranch operates. During the week scouts can earn the Horsemanship, Veterinary Medicine, and Farm Mechanics merit badges. In addition to the merit badges the scouts learn about how to use a forge to shape metal as well as others kills that are useful in running a ranch. At the end of the week the scouts participate in a cattle drive.
Camp and Canoe Base for the Great Lakes Council in Ogemaw County, Michigan
. Edward N. Cole Canoe Base is the second of four pieces of property owned by the Great lakes Council.
Cole has been a Nationally Accredited “A” Rated summer camp facility since 1980, and its staff continues a tradition and commitment to service and excellence, in fact it boasts one of the highest unit return rates in the nation.
Cole is approximately 170 miles (273.6 km) north of Detroit just outside of West Branch, Michigan
located on the southern border of Ogemaw County
. The camp measures approximately 1480 acres (6 km²). The Rifle River
runs through the main part of the camp and provides an excellent opportunity for units to canoe and tube down the river. The majority of the camp structures, campsites, and program areas are condensed into the northeast portion of the property, leaving the remainder as wilderness on the west side of the Rifle River (with the exception of the Shotgun Range). After crossing the foot bridge over the Rifle River Scouts have miles of uninterrupted trails and wilderness to explore and hike. The general terrain of the camp is flat, with only a few hills as one descends into the river valley.
to Scouting in the Detroit Area.
The first summer camp was held in 1968 at the Rifle River Scout Canoe Base, and has since operated a first rate summer camp experience for young men and women looking to experience all that Scouting and the Great Lakes Council has to offer. Since its name change in 1977 Edward N. Cole Canoe Base has been colloquially referred to as Cole Canoe Base or Cole by its many visitors, and simply The Base by its dedicated staff.
The campsites are: Aspen, Bridgeview, Broken Paddle, Buckhorn, Deadwood, Deadwood Oaks, Deer Run, High Banks, Island Rapids, Lucky Portage, Maple Flats, Maple Highlands, Rapids, Rifle River, Silver Creek and White Pines.
Cole also has one cabin available year round. The White Pines cabin located on the west side of the Rifle River is available for units to rent year round. However, during the summer months the cabin is utilized by the permanent adult staff members as their summer residence. The White Pines cabin also houses the additional rotating staff members that come up throughout the summer to volunteer their time.
A second structure located on the far northwest end of the property is the camp director’s residence. Though this structure has no official name, the staff jokingly refers to it as "The White House". The White House houses many of the camp's archives, valuable animal mounts, and of course functions as a residence for the Camp Director and other executives visiting Cole all year round.
The Cole summer program has several parts. The traditional summer camp program provided by all Scout camps around the country that includes merit badges, nightly program opportunities, first year camper experience, and other age appropriate activities to keep all age levels of Scouts and Scouters interested in the Scouting movement.
In addition to its traditional summer camp experience that Cole provides it also has several unique programs not offered at every camp. Making use of the Rifle River and Cole’s 132 canoes, Cole Canoe Base offers a variety of river trips to its many visitors.
Utilizing the Rifle River Cole offers 1 Day, 2 Day, 3 Day, and the 4 day 50 miler. Each trip can be scheduled to fit each unit's individual needs and requests. In addition to the 132 canoes Cole has available to units, it also maintains 16 open top river kayaks and 100 tubes for units to use on the river.
In the recent years Cole’s High Adventure Staff has branched out to make more High Adventure opportunities available to its units and visitors. Cole started by expanding to the Au Sable River. Cole now also offers a 4 day 75 miler on the Au Sable River to the units that visit Cole. Both the Rifle River and Au Sable canoe trips can be scheduled after arrival at summer camp.
The newest addition to the river programs available is the Fox-Manistique 100 miler. Taking place over 5 days in the beautiful woods and waters of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula units will canoe and explore all that nature has to offer. Due to permits and other arrangements made with local and state offices units must register for this high adventure activity at least 2 months in advance prior to their arrival at summer camp. Contact the Great Lakes Council office for more information.
In addition to the river programs, Cole also offers several other High Adventure activities both in camp and out. These include SCUBA, Pictured Rocks 50 Mile Hike, Climbing, Rappelling, Bouldering, Isle Royal 50 Mile Hike, Trail Boss, and River Ranger.
, as well as other certifications. Please check with official Great Lakes Council sources for the most up to date information regarding its current merit badge schedule.
* indicates an Eagle-required merit badge
Taking place the first and last night of the week, the Cole flag retreat allows Scouts and leaders to experience a respectful retreat of the flag of the United States, as well as any other flags being flown on the J. Chutorash flag pole. Upon arrival during staff week, a special team, the color guard
, is formed with the sole responsibility of conducting the flag ceremonies. This team, referred to as the "A Team", consists of 8 to 10 staff members, a number which varies depending on the number of flags being flown, plus the “barker,” whose job it is to give facing commands.
During the ceremony, the majority of the staff lines up single file in front of the administration building facing the parking lot. The "A Team" lines up in two ranks perpendicular to the staff, facing the flag pole. The units visiting the camp line up by unit in the parking lot facing the administration building and flag pole.
The “Barker” asks for each campsite to report individually. Each unit present responds accordingly, often in a manner unique to that group or representing national identities present in the unit, before the “Barker” moves on to ask the staff to report. Immediately following the staff's report, the spoken command, "lower the colors", orders the "A Team" to move forward to the flag pole and begin the retreat of the flags. Before the flags begin to descend the pole, the order is given to "salute," at which time a 10 gauge black powder cannon blast is fired. After the flags are removed from the pole, they are ceremoniously folded in the traditional manner, which varies for each flag, before being presented to the senior camp leadership, who are lined up on the porch of the administration building, with the American Flag being presented to the Camp Director.
The units and staff are given the order to stand "at ease," and the Camp Director makes his way to the units for various announcements. On the first day of camp, this is to pray grace for the upcoming meal. On the last day of camp, he steps forward to thank the units for attending camp and provide other relevant information. This is then followed by announcements and awards from various program areas within the camp. The flags usually flown include the United States
flag, the Michigan
state flag, the Great Lakes Council Flag and the Cole Canoe Base Flag. If a troop comes to CCB from out-of-state, their state flag will normally be flown as well. Additionally, if someone attending camp or a staff member is from a foreign country, that nation's flag will also be flown, with the tradition being that the "A Team" will present the flag to the foreign Scout in that Scout's native language.
The Beast Feast is a traditional festivity held every Monday evening in the Outdoor Skills program area. Every troop brings in a dish for everyone to try out. There are cooking awards in several areas, and the staff themselves prepare all kinds of different foods, from pigeon to cookie dough to salmon.
Crafts on Fire was introduced to Cole Canoe Base during Summer Camp 2004 by then Crafts Director Andy Linn. Immediately after Beast Feast on Monday, Scouts travel down the camp road to the Crafts Pavilion for art and craft activities by candlelight.
The Leave No Trace Wilderness Excursion is an activity introduced in 2009 by Eco/Con Director Corey Brewer. It takes place directly after the Beast Feast and Crafts on Fire on Monday evenings. Interested Scouts who attend the Leave No Trace Training Program on Monday afternoon hike over to the other side of the river with Eco/Con staff for an overnight stay at one of the wilderness sites located there. At this site, they have the opportunity to put Leave No Trace fundamentals into practice while exploring the wilderness of Cole Canoe Base.
Vespers is a service held on Sunday and Tuesday evening at the Michael Wearn Memorial Chapel or John Dumas Pavilion in case of inclement weather. This consists of a non-denominational Christian
Scripture service, as a parallel to the Catholic Liturgy of the Word
, followed by a homily
, or sermon
, and the Lord's Prayer
. Following this, Catholic attendees may stay for the Liturgy of the Eucharist, thus completing a full Mass. The camp is able to offer this because the chaplain is a Roman Catholic priest; however, if he is not able to be in camp for a week, another minister will be invited to preach and this setup may differ. Many Scouts and staff attend both services.
Eco/Con Live! is an outdoor activity that takes place Wednesday evenings at the Claycomb Ecology Conservation Center. The Eco/Con Staff show various animals of the wild, and in the past there has been a falconer with his/her falcons. Today, the event takes more the form of a showcase, with Eco/Con staff running various activities connected to Eco/Con.
L.O.S.T. (Legendary Outdoor Skills Tournament)is an event also on Wednesday at Outdoor Skills that is subjected to Orienteering
. An orienteering course is built within the area and Scouts are given a variety of different team-building tasks. This was also introduced in 2006 by then Outdoor Skills Director Tyler Colman.
B.S.A. Scuba and Snorkeling Awards are obtainable at the Bosco Lake Aquatics Area, or these activities can be completed just for fun. Experienced swimmers receive several days of lessons before heading out into the lake to view several sunken treasures, including a sailboat, a canoe, a kayak, and a payphone sign complete with a phone.
Movie Night is an event that also falls on Wednesday. A movie is played for Scouts and Scoutmasters to enjoy. This program developed as part of a plan to host a campwide program in the event of a rainout Thursday night. Due to its popularity it was moved to a regular camp event in the summer of 2002.
The Paul Bunyan Lumberjack Festival is a Thursday tradition. Down at Bosco Lake, activities such as a tomahawk throw and crosscut sawing competition occur. In previous years, a root beer chug has been included in the lumberjack events, until it was brought back in 2009 for Scoutmasters only. The Ice Cream Social happens immediately following the Lumberjack Festival. This event takes place at the Wm. Kamman Administration Center. Scouts are able to choose from vanilla, chocolate, blue canoe (blue moon), and SuperGus ice cream. The "Scoutmaster Special", a includes each flavor with a blue cherry on top.
The River Rat Rodeo is a Friday festivity that happens during midday. Troops compete in water activities such as war canoes, canoe races, and rump bumps.
Following the closing flag retreat, troops process out to the Cosgro Campfire Area for the celebratory closing campfire. Most viewers agree that this is one of the most spectacular closing campfires offered at any camp, and to many it seems that it only improves each year. After performances including skits, songs, and jokes by the staff and campers, new Eagle Scouts are honored for their achievements. All Eagle Scouts in attendance are recognized as well. Also, a John Wayne rendition of the history of the song 'Taps
' is played, followed by 'Taps' done by bugle. Scouts and staff who serve in the military are often given special mention for their patriotism, and a moment of reflective silence to gave thanks for the nation of the United States
is observed. The campfire is closed with a photo slideshow remembering the week at camp and a fireworks display.
This closes the week at camp, and troops break camp and return home the following morning.
, Michigan. Camp Agawam is a Boy Scout
Camp and is the third of four pieces of property owned by the Great lakes Council. It was purchased in 1918 as Camp Pontiac and renamed in 1938. Camp Agawam features 9 camp sites, 3 lodges and 2 lakes. In 2009, Chippewa 29 received a National OA Grant and will redo the docks on one of the 2 lakes.
There is a living history themed campsite called Fort Pontiac. Fort Pontiac was created by the Chief Pontiac Trail Committee (CPT) as a resource for scout units to conduct primitive skills training. It includes a blacksmith shoppe, carpentry shoppe and brick oven that may be used by units that have a leader who has taken the FORT Skills training conducted by the CPT. The CPT also conducts living history themed weekends during which the CPT committee members are in attendance in period clothing representing 1775. During these times the CPT fort staff are demonstrating period crafts and providing hands on activities to those in camp.
, Clare County in Northern Michigan
. LLSR s a Boy Scout
Camp and is the fourth of four pieces of property owned by the Great lakes Council. It was purchased for $350,000 in 1964. Lost Lake features very popular week long summer camp. Scouts from around the United States
can attend this camp. The camp has three lakes, the largest is 66 acres (267,092.8 m²) Lost Lake. The site is also the home of Bennett's Lodge, formerly a retreat owned by Ford Motor Company
executive Harry Bennett
.
, and the Greater New York Councils operate one lodge in each of its five boroughs.
May 2011 will mark the end of Migisi Opawgan Lodge and Chippewa Lodge with the council merger of Clinton Valley Council and Detroit Area Council. Chippewa Lodge 29 and Migisi Opawgan Lodge 162 will reunite to form a new Noquet Lodge. Noquet is translated to mean, Bear Claw. The total member will reach near 2500 members making it the largest lodge in the State of Michigan.
, and Robert Rutherford of Howell.
The Brady induction, at Waterford Hill Farm, was officiated by Chippewa Lodge 29 of Pontiac about two weeks prior to the Howell ceremony. Munhacke Lodge 88 of Ann Arbor inducted the first Howell group in Camp Newkirk on July 13, 1939.
Once started, groups from both camps continued the ordeal and induction weekly. By summer's end 50 Brady men and over 20 Howell men were in the Arrow.
At the April 15, 1941 Executive Board Meeting, Andy Watson, the lodges first lodge chief, reported on his research for a Lodge name. Mi-Gi-Si (Eagle) and O-Paw-Gan (Peace-Pipe) Both were accepted into both the Totem and Name Mi-Gi-Si O-Paw-Gan.
On August 4, 2009 the Detroit Area Council and the Clinton Valley Council voted to merge into a new council serving Macomb
Macomb County, Michigan
-Demographics:As of the census of 2000, there were 788,149 people, 309,203 households, and 210,876 families residing in the county. The population density was 1,640 people per square mile . There were 320,276 housing units at an average density of 667 per square mile...
, Oakland
Oakland County, Michigan
-Demographics:As of the 2010 Census, there were 1,202,362 people, 471,115 households, and 315,175 families residing in the county. The population density as of the 2000 census was 1,369 people per square mile . There were 492,006 housing units at an average density of 564 per square mile...
, and Wayne Counties
Wayne County, Michigan
-History:Wayne County was one of the first counties formed when the Northwest Territory was organized. It was named for the American general "Mad Anthony" Wayne. It originally encompassed the entire area of the Lower Peninsula of Michigan, as well as small sections that are now part of northern...
. The new Council was officially started on October 1, 2009. on November 10, 2009, after a month long contest, the new name Great Lakes Council was selected to represent the new council.
Organization
- Huron District
- Lakeshore District
- Macomb District
- Michigami District
- Motor City District
- Northridge District
- North Trails District
- Pontiac-Manito District
- Ojibwa District
- Ottawa District
- Sunset District
- Three Rivers District
D-bar-A Scout Ranch
D-bar-A Scout Ranch (Formally known as D-A Scout Ranch) is a Boy ScoutBoy Scouts of America
The Boy Scouts of America is one of the largest youth organizations in the United States, with over 4.5 million youth members in its age-related divisions...
ranch located in Metamora, Michigan
Metamora, Michigan
Metamora is a village in Lapeer County in the U.S. state of Michigan. The population was 507 at the 2000 census. The village is located within Metamora Township.-Geography:...
. D-bar-A Scout Ranch is one of four camps owned by the Great Lakes Council.
Geography
D-bar-A Scout Ranch is approximately 60 miles (96.6 km) north of Detroit just south of Lapeer, MichiganLapeer, Michigan
Lapeer is a city in the U.S. state of Michigan and is the county seat of Lapeer County. As of the 2010 census, the city population was 8,841. Most of the city was incorporated from land that was formerly in Lapeer Township, though portions were also annexed from Mayfield Township and Elba...
located on the southern border of Lapeer County
Lapeer County, Michigan
-Demographics:As of the census of 2000, there were 87,904 people, 30,729 households, and 23,876 families residing in the county. The population density was 134 people per square mile . There were 32,732 housing units at an average density of 50 per square mile...
. The camp measures approximately 1700 acres (7 km²) of wilderness. The Flint River
Flint River (Michigan)
The Flint River is a river in the Flint/Tri-Cities region of Michigan in the United States. It flows through the city of Flint and the counties of Genesee, Lapeer and Saginaw.- Course :...
runs through the northeast side of camp through the camporee field.
History
Originally opened in 1950, D-bar-A Scout Ranch was opened and operated for a full year before conducting its first summer camp program, since then D-bar-A-Scout Ranch has been providing quality Scouting experiences for Scouts from Southeast Michigan and around the Midwest.In 2007, Great Lakes Council announced its "Go Green" campaign. This project started at D-bar-A and will continue into the rest of the council's projects. They will no longer be using disposables in the dining facilities, among other earth saving projects.
Campsites
D-bar-A Scout Ranch has 28 heated cabins and 13 tent sites, each including a flagpole, fire ring, and latrine.The cabin sites are : Arrowhead, Beaver Creek, Chippewa, Christoph, Clearwater, Dan Beard, Draper, Eagles Nest, Fair Oaks, Forest Edge, Frischkorn, High Point, Hill Top, Hunters Creek, Indianwood, Jack Lord, James E. West, Johnstone, Lakeview, Lang, Little Prairie, Meadows, Oakridge, Rawhide, Shady Oaks, Tall Timbers, Trout Lake and Williams.
The tent sites are: Aspen Grove, Cow Camp, Eastwood, Forester, Grandview, Hawthorne Hill, Highland, Migisi, Ribble House, Riverside, Skyline, Treasure Oaks, Wispering Trees and Brookside.
Lockwood Lake is the largest of the three lakes on the property along with Trout Lake and Beaver Lake and it is used by the Scouts for all of their aquatic activities. Although cabins exist in the Lockwood Lake region, the Scouts often shelter in tents, except for winter events. Facilities also exist for shooting sports, ecology conservation, and aquatics.
The Jack Lord area is used primarily for Boy Scouting and Cub Scouting summer camp activities including swimming, canoeing, archery, BB guns, rifle & shotgun, nature & conservancy education, crafts, climbing & bouldering, horseback riding and Suttler's Trading Company (trading post). A number of cabins, and tent sites are located in this area, as well as a new shower house and the James Hay pavilion and dining hall. The Jack Lord fire bowl hosts special events, skits and the end-of-camp bonfire. Starting in 2009 and to completed in 2010, Migisi Opawgan, one of the Great Lakes Council Order of the Arrow lodges, will be building a new fire bowl, that will sit right on Lockwood Lake.
Merit badges
During the week-long programs, each of the various activity areas offers instruction in various merit badges
Merit badge (Boy Scouts of America)
Merit badges are awards earned by youth members of the Boy Scouts of America , based on activities within an area of study by completing a list of periodically updated requirements. The purpose of the merit badge program is to allow Scouts to examine subjects to determine if they would like to...
, as well as other certifications. Please check with official Great Lakes Council sources for the most up to date information regarding its current merit badge schedule.
| Activity Area | Merit Badges |
|---|---|
| Aquatics | Canoeing, Lifesaving*, Motorboating, Rowing, Small Boat Sailing, Swimming*, (Certifications) BSA Lifeguard, Mile and 2 Mile Swim |
| Outdoor Adventure | Backpacking, Camping*, Cooking, Cycling*, Hiking*, Indian Lore, Orienteering, Pioneering, Sports, Wilderness Survival, Climbing, Fly-fishing |
| Ecology and Conservation | Astronomy, Bird Study, Environmental Science*, Fish and Wildlife Management, Fishing, Forestry, Geology, Mammal Study, Nature, Oceanography, Reptile and Amphibian Study, Soil and Water Conservation, Weather |
| Shooting Sports | Archery, Rifle Shooting, Shotgun Shooting |
| Crafts | Art, Basketry, Leatherwork, Woodcarving, Music, Composite Materials |
| Eagle's Corner | Citizenship in the Community*, Citizenship in the Nation*, Citizenship in the World*, Communications*, Fingerprinting |
| M*A*S*H 949 | First Aid, Medicine, Public Health, Safety |
| Wall Street | Business American Business, Entrepreneurship, Salesmanship |
| Silver Spur Corral | Horsemanship, Veterinary Medicine |
Programs and activities
Horseback riding is availible throughout the year. During the Summer rides leave from the Silver Spur Corral and during the rest of the year they leave from the barns near the main entrance.
Flag Ceremonies take place before breakfast and before dinner every day of the week, allowing Scouts and leaders to experience a demonstration of respect of the flag of the United States, as well as any other flags being flown on the flag pole. Staff or troops are asked to do a skit or interactive song before the ceremony starts. This usually occurs 10 to 30 minutes before the ceremony if indeed a troop arrives for the ceremony that far in advance. During the ceremony, the majority of the staff lines up in front of the Jack Lord administration building facing the Hay Pavilion. The "A Team" lines up in two ranks perpendicular to the staff, facing the flag pole. The units visiting the camp line up by unit on the north side of the flag pole facing the Jack Lord administration building parking lot and flag pole. Following the raising of the flag, the units and staff are given the order to stand "at ease," and the Program Director makes his way to the units for various announcements. On the first day of camp, this is to welcome everyone to camp. On the last day of camp, he steps forward to thank the units for attending camp and provide other relevant information. The flags usually flown include the United States
United States
The United States of America is a federal constitutional republic comprising fifty states and a federal district...
flag and the D-bar-A Scout Ranch flag.
Western day is a ranch traditional festivity held every Wednesday evening in the Jack Lord Field area. There are cooking demos, corral rides, horse drawn wagon rides, branding, religious awards display, & Order of the Arrow display. Other activities include the BB gun range, bull wrangling, and tug-o-war. Campers and guests at Western Day decide who is the next D-bar-A Scout Ranch Iron Chef, in an Iron Chef
Iron Chef
is a Japanese television cooking show produced by Fuji Television. The series, which premiered on October 10, 1992, is a stylized cook-off featuring guest chefs challenging one of the show's resident "Iron Chefs" in a timed cooking battle built around a specific theme ingredient. The series ended...
-like event.
Silent Swim is an aquatic obstacle course held at Lockwood Lake. During the Teddy Bear Swim, Scouts and Scouters swim in the lake at 6:30am, much earlier than is normally permitted. A fishing derby takes place on Tuesday evening.
The Pedro Trail is seven miles long with two optional loops that bring the total length to ten miles. Upon completion, trail medals and patches may be purchased at Suttler’s Trading Company.
Flu-flu archery demonstrations are held at the archery range, demonstrating the use of Flu-Flu Arrow
Flu-Flu Arrow
A flu-flu arrow is a type of arrow specifically designed to travel a short distance. Such arrows are particularly useful when shooting at aerial targets or for certain types of recreational archery where the arrow must not travel too far...
s to hit moving targets.
During the Explosion of the Arts, Scouts bring their stories, poems, instruments, and voice to the crafts area. They will be able to share a poem, play an instrument, or tie-dye shirts. On Tuesdays, Scouts travel down the camp road to the Martorona Pavilion for art and craft explosion.
The competition for the Longhorn Award lasts the duration of the week-long summer camp. It is awarded to the unit judged to have the most spirit. Carrying unit flags, displaying patrol flags, giving the patrol yell, singing songs, and engaging in other demonstrations of enthusiasm all contribute to a troop's chances for success.
Marsh Madness is part of the Eco/Con merit badges, where Scouts investigate the bio-system of the marsh
Marsh
In geography, a marsh, or morass, is a type of wetland that is subject to frequent or continuous flood. Typically the water is shallow and features grasses, rushes, reeds, typhas, sedges, other herbaceous plants, and moss....
es in camp. This event usually leads to all involved being covered in muck from the bottom of the marsh. Originally called the "Swamp Tromp," the name was changed when it was determined that the camp did not have swamps, but rather marshes. Eco/Con LIVE is an outdoor activity that takes place Sunday evenings at the Carl Piel Chapel, immediately following the Vesper service. The Eco/Con Staff shows various reptiles and their abilities.
Vespers is a service held on Sunday evening at the Carl Piel Chapel or Hay Pavilion in case of inclement weather. This consists of a non-denominational Christian
Christian
A Christian is a person who adheres to Christianity, an Abrahamic, monotheistic religion based on the life and teachings of Jesus of Nazareth as recorded in the Canonical gospels and the letters of the New Testament...
Scripture service. Many Scouts and staff attend vespers.
On Monday, a movie is played for Scouts and Scoutmasters to enjoy. New releases have not been the theme of Monday Movie Night in recent years, and the camp usually chooses one movie and repeats that movie for the entire course of the summer.
The Friday Camp Wide Activity is a Friday tradition. Down at Lockwood, activities such canoe pull, watermelon scramble, and various other water based fun. The entire event is not complete until the Lockwood Regatta is held, where units build a raft out of material found only at camp. One of the riders on the raft, must be at least 18, and be in full complete uniform.
Following the closing flag retreat, troops process out to the Jack Lord Fire bowl for the celebratory closing campfire.
This closes the week at camp, and troops break camp and return home the following morning.
Yucca Trail
The Yucca Trail is a horseback riding program that takes scouts for four days and three nights of riding. During the course of this program scouts will be able to earn the horsemanship merit badge while exploring much of the unseen areas of the camp. Each scout is assigned one horse to ride for the trip. In addition to riding the scouts learn to take care of their horses including taking shifts at night to feed and look after the animals.
Ranch Hand
The Ranch Hand program is a week long program where scouts can work along side the camp's wrangler staff and learn about how a ranch operates. During the week scouts can earn the Horsemanship, Veterinary Medicine, and Farm Mechanics merit badges. In addition to the merit badges the scouts learn about how to use a forge to shape metal as well as others kills that are useful in running a ranch. At the end of the week the scouts participate in a cattle drive.
Edward N. Cole Canoe Base
Edward N. Cole Canoe Base is a Boy ScoutBoy Scouts of America
The Boy Scouts of America is one of the largest youth organizations in the United States, with over 4.5 million youth members in its age-related divisions...
Camp and Canoe Base for the Great Lakes Council in Ogemaw County, Michigan
Ogemaw County, Michigan
-Demographics:As of the census of 2000, there were 21,645 people, 8,842 households, and 6,189 families residing in the county. The population density was 38 people per square mile . There were 15,404 housing units at an average density of 27 per square mile...
. Edward N. Cole Canoe Base is the second of four pieces of property owned by the Great lakes Council.
Cole has been a Nationally Accredited “A” Rated summer camp facility since 1980, and its staff continues a tradition and commitment to service and excellence, in fact it boasts one of the highest unit return rates in the nation.
Geography
West Branch, Michigan
West Branch is a city in the U.S. state of Michigan. As of the 2000 census, the city population was 1,926. It is the county seat of Ogemaw County. The city is located within West Branch Township, but is politically independent.-History:...
located on the southern border of Ogemaw County
Ogemaw County, Michigan
-Demographics:As of the census of 2000, there were 21,645 people, 8,842 households, and 6,189 families residing in the county. The population density was 38 people per square mile . There were 15,404 housing units at an average density of 27 per square mile...
. The camp measures approximately 1480 acres (6 km²). The Rifle River
Rifle River
Rifle River is a river in the U.S. state of Michigan. It rises in northeastern Ogemaw County and flows through Arenac County to enter Saginaw Bay of Lake Huron. Once a logging river during the Michigan forestry boom at the turn of the 20th century, the river is now primarily used for recreation,...
runs through the main part of the camp and provides an excellent opportunity for units to canoe and tube down the river. The majority of the camp structures, campsites, and program areas are condensed into the northeast portion of the property, leaving the remainder as wilderness on the west side of the Rifle River (with the exception of the Shotgun Range). After crossing the foot bridge over the Rifle River Scouts have miles of uninterrupted trails and wilderness to explore and hike. The general terrain of the camp is flat, with only a few hills as one descends into the river valley.
History
Originally purchased in 1964, Edward N. Cole Canoe Base was opened and operated under the name of the Rifle River Scout Canoe Base until 1977 when the name was changed to reflect the dedication of Edward N. ColeEd Cole
Edward Nicholas Cole was an American automotive executive for General Motors.- Career :Cole was the son of a dairy farmer. In his youth, he designed, built, and sold homemade radio sets, and as a teenager became a field representative for a tractor manufacturer...
to Scouting in the Detroit Area.
The first summer camp was held in 1968 at the Rifle River Scout Canoe Base, and has since operated a first rate summer camp experience for young men and women looking to experience all that Scouting and the Great Lakes Council has to offer. Since its name change in 1977 Edward N. Cole Canoe Base has been colloquially referred to as Cole Canoe Base or Cole by its many visitors, and simply The Base by its dedicated staff.
| Year | Events |
|---|---|
| 1964 | Purchased from Bob and Wilma Foresman |
| 1967 | Purchased two 40 acre (0.1618744 km²) parcels from Consumers Power Company |
| 1968 | Purchased river frontage at base camp from Consumers Power Company. Built five campsites: Deer Run, Lucky Portage, Silver Creek, Broken Paddle, and Maple Flats |
| 1969 | First summer camp at what was then called Rifle River Scout Canoe Base |
| 1974 | Shop built |
| 1975 | Ranger's house built |
| 1976 | Suspension bridge erected across the Rifle River and shower building built by Bolivian Peace Corps Training Units. Bosco Lake developed and filled by Army Corps of Engineers |
| 1977 | Camp renamed Edward N. Cole Canoe Base by funds donated by Edward Nicholas Cole, President of General Motors Corp and Detroit Area Council President in 1962. Service building and Bosco Lake completed. |
| 1978 | Tenth anniversary of Cole Canoe Base |
| 1979 | Health lodge and rifle range built |
| 1979 | Memorial flag pole at service building dedicated |
| 1980 | Nationally accredited "A" Rated Camp for the first time, and has been so every year since |
| 1983 | First full service season of summer camp, also first 100% national inspection. Pavilion built and dedicated by Troop 191, DAC Thunderbird District |
| 1985 | Front entrance built and dedicated to Ken Poulson |
| 1986 | Purchased 640 acres (2.6 km²) from the Greenwood Sportsman Club by the Martins and Slaviks |
| 1987 | Dedication of the Don and Olive Martin Wilderness property |
| 1987 | Dedication of the Joseph F. Slavik and Stephen F Slavik, Sr. Wilderness property |
| 1988 | Twentieth anniversary of Cole Canoe Base |
| 1992 | Claycomb Ecology and Conservation (Eco-Con) Pavilion opened and dedicated in July |
| 1993 | Eco-Con learning center opened and vehicle storage building built |
| 1994 | New Broken Paddle Campsite opened. New shotgun range opened. Rifle range pavilion built and archery range remodeled |
| 1995 | Otto F. Kamman shotgun range built and dedicated |
| 1996 | Big pavilion addition, new trading post and new crafts pavilion built. Waterfront Borich flagpole dedication. Bosco lake boating area pavilion built |
| 1997 | Cosgro campfire arena dedicated. Lucky Portage, Aspen, Deer Run and Broken Paddle campsites adopted. Michael Wearn Chapel opened and dedicated. New latrines in Broken Paddle and High Banks |
| 1998 | Thirtieth anniversary of Cole Canoe Base. Electrical power to Eco-Con and second Eco-Con learning center opened. Deer Run, Maple Flats, and Silver Creek campsites adopted. New gateway built, Rifle River campsite enlarged and adopted. Archery pavilion built. Sporting clays event added at the Otto F. Kamman Shotgun Facility |
| 1999 | Electrical power to Eco-Con, Rifle Range, and Cosgro Campfire Arena. Rifle Range rebuilt and expanded |
| 2000 | New shower building built and opened. New latrines in Rapids, Archery/Rifle River and North Landing |
| 2001 | New Latrine built in Aspen. Two new campsites developed south of Silver Creek |
| 2002 | New outpost campsite, Whispering Pines developed west of the Rifle River. OKPIK Okpik Okpik, pronounced as is the cold-weather adventure program offered by the Boy Scouts of America's Northern Tier National High Adventure Bases at the Charles L... cold weather camp developed. New latrine at Deadwood/Deadwood Oaks; Deadwood adopted. |
| 2003 | Kamman Administration Center remodeled and dedicated. New latrine in Maple Flats. Crafts and Outdoor Skills pavilions expanded. Bouldering Wall built in Climbing Area. Flagpole added to Rifle Range. Jacket and Paddle Building rebuilt |
| 2004 | Main Pavilion expanded and dedicated to John Dumas. Cosgro Campfire Arena expanded. New latrine at Lucky Portage. In September, the vehicle storage building burns down and is rebuilt |
| 2005 | Climbing Wall constructed in the climbing/bouldering area during August. Main span of swimming dock replaced. Interior of Kamman Center refurbished. Old refrigeration unit removed and a larger one is built onto the Kamman Center. Rapids campsite adopted. Archery range rebuilt and dedicated to the late Frank DeDene, a lifelong lover and volunteer of Cole Canoe Base. New pavilion at Deadwood built and donated by Troop 1736. |
| 2006 | First arm of swimming dock replaced. Overhang added to Rifle Range. Aspen campsite expanded to the east. Deer Run and White Pines latrines torn down and rebuilt. |
| 2007 | Aquatics latrine torn down and rebuilt. New kayak storage racks built. New pavilion in Aspen built by Troop 86. Last leg of swimming dock replaced. Bathrooms in the Kamman Center gutted and refurbished. CCB is the first high adventure camp to host a National Camp School. |
| 2008 | Fortieth Anniversary of Cole Canoe Base. New Bridgeview latrine built. Silver Creek campsite expanded. Trading Post expanded in memory of Dawn Chutorash. Fortieth Anniversary gateway built. |
| 2009 | Trading Post expansion completed. |
| 2010 | Pavilion at White Pines Campsite built. Foosball court built. Electronic bulletin board installed in Dumas pavilion. High Powered Rifle Range Opens for Troop Shoots. |
| 2011 | First year camper pavilion built. Cosgro Productions area expanded. High Banks campsite expanded. Memorial bricks installed in Celebration Square. |
Campsites and facilities
Cole Canoe Base has 16 campsites, each including a flagpole, fire ring, and latrine.The campsites are: Aspen, Bridgeview, Broken Paddle, Buckhorn, Deadwood, Deadwood Oaks, Deer Run, High Banks, Island Rapids, Lucky Portage, Maple Flats, Maple Highlands, Rapids, Rifle River, Silver Creek and White Pines.
Cole also has one cabin available year round. The White Pines cabin located on the west side of the Rifle River is available for units to rent year round. However, during the summer months the cabin is utilized by the permanent adult staff members as their summer residence. The White Pines cabin also houses the additional rotating staff members that come up throughout the summer to volunteer their time.
A second structure located on the far northwest end of the property is the camp director’s residence. Though this structure has no official name, the staff jokingly refers to it as "The White House". The White House houses many of the camp's archives, valuable animal mounts, and of course functions as a residence for the Camp Director and other executives visiting Cole all year round.
Summer camp
The first week of June marks the end of the spring camping season, with the annual Mix-Fix. The majority of the staff arrives the second week in June to begin “Staff Week”, and the unofficial start of summer camp. This week provides the staff an opportunity to prepare Cole for the summer camp season, but also provides the time necessary to provide the mandatory staff training time. Though the vast majority of the summer camp setup occurs during this week time frame, several of the dedicated staff members make trips throughout the fall, winter and spring to help maintain the property, and develop new programs and ideas.The Cole summer program has several parts. The traditional summer camp program provided by all Scout camps around the country that includes merit badges, nightly program opportunities, first year camper experience, and other age appropriate activities to keep all age levels of Scouts and Scouters interested in the Scouting movement.
In addition to its traditional summer camp experience that Cole provides it also has several unique programs not offered at every camp. Making use of the Rifle River and Cole’s 132 canoes, Cole Canoe Base offers a variety of river trips to its many visitors.
Utilizing the Rifle River Cole offers 1 Day, 2 Day, 3 Day, and the 4 day 50 miler. Each trip can be scheduled to fit each unit's individual needs and requests. In addition to the 132 canoes Cole has available to units, it also maintains 16 open top river kayaks and 100 tubes for units to use on the river.
In the recent years Cole’s High Adventure Staff has branched out to make more High Adventure opportunities available to its units and visitors. Cole started by expanding to the Au Sable River. Cole now also offers a 4 day 75 miler on the Au Sable River to the units that visit Cole. Both the Rifle River and Au Sable canoe trips can be scheduled after arrival at summer camp.
The newest addition to the river programs available is the Fox-Manistique 100 miler. Taking place over 5 days in the beautiful woods and waters of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula units will canoe and explore all that nature has to offer. Due to permits and other arrangements made with local and state offices units must register for this high adventure activity at least 2 months in advance prior to their arrival at summer camp. Contact the Great Lakes Council office for more information.
In addition to the river programs, Cole also offers several other High Adventure activities both in camp and out. These include SCUBA, Pictured Rocks 50 Mile Hike, Climbing, Rappelling, Bouldering, Isle Royal 50 Mile Hike, Trail Boss, and River Ranger.
Merit badges
During the week-long programs, each of the various activity areas offers instruction in various merit badgesMerit badge (Boy Scouts of America)
Merit badges are awards earned by youth members of the Boy Scouts of America , based on activities within an area of study by completing a list of periodically updated requirements. The purpose of the merit badge program is to allow Scouts to examine subjects to determine if they would like to...
, as well as other certifications. Please check with official Great Lakes Council sources for the most up to date information regarding its current merit badge schedule.
| Activity Area | Merit Badges |
|---|---|
| Aquatics | Canoeing, Lifesaving*, Motorboating, Rowing, Small Boat Sailing, Swimming*, Watersports, Whitewater, (Certifications) BSA Lifeguard, Mile and 2 Mile Swim, Snorkeling BSA, SCUBA BSA |
| Outdoor Skills | Athletics, Backpacking, Camping*, Cooking, Cycling*, Emergency Preparedness*, Hiking*, Indian Lore, Orienteering, Personal Fitness*, Pioneering, Safety, Sports, Wilderness Survival |
| Ecology and Conservation | Astronomy, Bird Study, Energy, Environmental Science*, Fish and Wildlife Management, Fishing, Fly-fishing, Forestry, Geology, Insect Study, Mammal Study, Nature, Oceanography, Plant Science, Pulp and Paper, Reptile and Amphibian Study, Space Exploration, Soil and Water Conservation, Weather |
| Shooting Sports | Archery, Rifle Shooting, Shotgun Shooting |
| Crafts | Art, Basketry, Leatherwork, Woodcarving, Music, Composite Materials |
| Cosgro Productions | Cinematography, Photography, Graphic Arts, Journalism, Public Speaking, Theater |
| Other | Bugling, Citizenship in the Community*, Citizenship in the Nation*, Citizenship in the World*, Climbing, Communications*, Fingerprinting and Crime Prevention, Fire Safety, First Aid*, Law, Medicine, Personal Management*, Salesmanship |
Programs and activities
Flags
Taking place the first and last night of the week, the Cole flag retreat allows Scouts and leaders to experience a respectful retreat of the flag of the United States, as well as any other flags being flown on the J. Chutorash flag pole. Upon arrival during staff week, a special team, the color guard
Color guard
In the military of the United States and other militaries, the color guard carries the National Color and other flags appropriate to its position in the chain of command. Typically these include a unit flag and a departmental flag...
, is formed with the sole responsibility of conducting the flag ceremonies. This team, referred to as the "A Team", consists of 8 to 10 staff members, a number which varies depending on the number of flags being flown, plus the “barker,” whose job it is to give facing commands.
During the ceremony, the majority of the staff lines up single file in front of the administration building facing the parking lot. The "A Team" lines up in two ranks perpendicular to the staff, facing the flag pole. The units visiting the camp line up by unit in the parking lot facing the administration building and flag pole.
The “Barker” asks for each campsite to report individually. Each unit present responds accordingly, often in a manner unique to that group or representing national identities present in the unit, before the “Barker” moves on to ask the staff to report. Immediately following the staff's report, the spoken command, "lower the colors", orders the "A Team" to move forward to the flag pole and begin the retreat of the flags. Before the flags begin to descend the pole, the order is given to "salute," at which time a 10 gauge black powder cannon blast is fired. After the flags are removed from the pole, they are ceremoniously folded in the traditional manner, which varies for each flag, before being presented to the senior camp leadership, who are lined up on the porch of the administration building, with the American Flag being presented to the Camp Director.
The units and staff are given the order to stand "at ease," and the Camp Director makes his way to the units for various announcements. On the first day of camp, this is to pray grace for the upcoming meal. On the last day of camp, he steps forward to thank the units for attending camp and provide other relevant information. This is then followed by announcements and awards from various program areas within the camp. The flags usually flown include the United States
United States
The United States of America is a federal constitutional republic comprising fifty states and a federal district...
flag, the Michigan
Michigan
Michigan is a U.S. state located in the Great Lakes Region of the United States of America. The name Michigan is the French form of the Ojibwa word mishigamaa, meaning "large water" or "large lake"....
state flag, the Great Lakes Council Flag and the Cole Canoe Base Flag. If a troop comes to CCB from out-of-state, their state flag will normally be flown as well. Additionally, if someone attending camp or a staff member is from a foreign country, that nation's flag will also be flown, with the tradition being that the "A Team" will present the flag to the foreign Scout in that Scout's native language.
Beast Feast
The Beast Feast is a traditional festivity held every Monday evening in the Outdoor Skills program area. Every troop brings in a dish for everyone to try out. There are cooking awards in several areas, and the staff themselves prepare all kinds of different foods, from pigeon to cookie dough to salmon.
Crafts on Fire
Crafts on Fire was introduced to Cole Canoe Base during Summer Camp 2004 by then Crafts Director Andy Linn. Immediately after Beast Feast on Monday, Scouts travel down the camp road to the Crafts Pavilion for art and craft activities by candlelight.
Leave No Trace
The Leave No Trace Wilderness Excursion is an activity introduced in 2009 by Eco/Con Director Corey Brewer. It takes place directly after the Beast Feast and Crafts on Fire on Monday evenings. Interested Scouts who attend the Leave No Trace Training Program on Monday afternoon hike over to the other side of the river with Eco/Con staff for an overnight stay at one of the wilderness sites located there. At this site, they have the opportunity to put Leave No Trace fundamentals into practice while exploring the wilderness of Cole Canoe Base.
Vespers
Vespers is a service held on Sunday and Tuesday evening at the Michael Wearn Memorial Chapel or John Dumas Pavilion in case of inclement weather. This consists of a non-denominational Christian
Christian
A Christian is a person who adheres to Christianity, an Abrahamic, monotheistic religion based on the life and teachings of Jesus of Nazareth as recorded in the Canonical gospels and the letters of the New Testament...
Scripture service, as a parallel to the Catholic Liturgy of the Word
Mass (liturgy)
"Mass" is one of the names by which the sacrament of the Eucharist is called in the Roman Catholic Church: others are "Eucharist", the "Lord's Supper", the "Breaking of Bread", the "Eucharistic assembly ", the "memorial of the Lord's Passion and Resurrection", the "Holy Sacrifice", the "Holy and...
, followed by a homily
Homily
A homily is a commentary that follows a reading of scripture. In Catholic, Anglican, Lutheran, and Eastern Orthodox Churches, a homily is usually given during Mass at the end of the Liturgy of the Word...
, or sermon
Sermon
A sermon is an oration by a prophet or member of the clergy. Sermons address a Biblical, theological, religious, or moral topic, usually expounding on a type of belief, law or behavior within both past and present contexts...
, and the Lord's Prayer
Lord's Prayer
The Lord's Prayer is a central prayer in Christianity. In the New Testament of the Christian Bible, it appears in two forms: in the Gospel of Matthew as part of the discourse on ostentation in the Sermon on the Mount, and in the Gospel of Luke, which records Jesus being approached by "one of his...
. Following this, Catholic attendees may stay for the Liturgy of the Eucharist, thus completing a full Mass. The camp is able to offer this because the chaplain is a Roman Catholic priest; however, if he is not able to be in camp for a week, another minister will be invited to preach and this setup may differ. Many Scouts and staff attend both services.
Eco/Con Live
Eco/Con Live! is an outdoor activity that takes place Wednesday evenings at the Claycomb Ecology Conservation Center. The Eco/Con Staff show various animals of the wild, and in the past there has been a falconer with his/her falcons. Today, the event takes more the form of a showcase, with Eco/Con staff running various activities connected to Eco/Con.
L.O.S.T.
L.O.S.T. (Legendary Outdoor Skills Tournament)is an event also on Wednesday at Outdoor Skills that is subjected to Orienteering
Orienteering
Orienteering is a family of sports that requires navigational skills using a map and compass to navigate from point to point in diverse and usually unfamiliar terrain, and normally moving at speed. Participants are given a topographical map, usually a specially prepared orienteering map, which they...
. An orienteering course is built within the area and Scouts are given a variety of different team-building tasks. This was also introduced in 2006 by then Outdoor Skills Director Tyler Colman.
Scuba & Snorkeling
B.S.A. Scuba and Snorkeling Awards are obtainable at the Bosco Lake Aquatics Area, or these activities can be completed just for fun. Experienced swimmers receive several days of lessons before heading out into the lake to view several sunken treasures, including a sailboat, a canoe, a kayak, and a payphone sign complete with a phone.
Movie Night
Movie Night is an event that also falls on Wednesday. A movie is played for Scouts and Scoutmasters to enjoy. This program developed as part of a plan to host a campwide program in the event of a rainout Thursday night. Due to its popularity it was moved to a regular camp event in the summer of 2002.
Paul Bunyan Lumberjack Festival
The Paul Bunyan Lumberjack Festival is a Thursday tradition. Down at Bosco Lake, activities such as a tomahawk throw and crosscut sawing competition occur. In previous years, a root beer chug has been included in the lumberjack events, until it was brought back in 2009 for Scoutmasters only. The Ice Cream Social happens immediately following the Lumberjack Festival. This event takes place at the Wm. Kamman Administration Center. Scouts are able to choose from vanilla, chocolate, blue canoe (blue moon), and SuperGus ice cream. The "Scoutmaster Special", a includes each flavor with a blue cherry on top.
River Rat Rodeo
The River Rat Rodeo is a Friday festivity that happens during midday. Troops compete in water activities such as war canoes, canoe races, and rump bumps.
Closing Flags and Fire Bowl
Following the closing flag retreat, troops process out to the Cosgro Campfire Area for the celebratory closing campfire. Most viewers agree that this is one of the most spectacular closing campfires offered at any camp, and to many it seems that it only improves each year. After performances including skits, songs, and jokes by the staff and campers, new Eagle Scouts are honored for their achievements. All Eagle Scouts in attendance are recognized as well. Also, a John Wayne rendition of the history of the song 'Taps
Taps
"Taps" is a musical piece sounded by the U.S. military nightly to indicate that it is "lights out". The tune is also sometimes known as "Butterfields Lullaby", or by the lyrics of its second verse, "Day is Done". It is also played during flag ceremonies and funerals, generally on bugle or trumpet...
' is played, followed by 'Taps' done by bugle. Scouts and staff who serve in the military are often given special mention for their patriotism, and a moment of reflective silence to gave thanks for the nation of the United States
United States
The United States of America is a federal constitutional republic comprising fifty states and a federal district...
is observed. The campfire is closed with a photo slideshow remembering the week at camp and a fireworks display.
This closes the week at camp, and troops break camp and return home the following morning.
Camp Agawam
Camp Agawam is a 131 acre (0.53013866 km²) camp located in northern Oakland CountyOakland County, Michigan
-Demographics:As of the 2010 Census, there were 1,202,362 people, 471,115 households, and 315,175 families residing in the county. The population density as of the 2000 census was 1,369 people per square mile . There were 492,006 housing units at an average density of 564 per square mile...
, Michigan. Camp Agawam is a Boy Scout
Boy Scouts of America
The Boy Scouts of America is one of the largest youth organizations in the United States, with over 4.5 million youth members in its age-related divisions...
Camp and is the third of four pieces of property owned by the Great lakes Council. It was purchased in 1918 as Camp Pontiac and renamed in 1938. Camp Agawam features 9 camp sites, 3 lodges and 2 lakes. In 2009, Chippewa 29 received a National OA Grant and will redo the docks on one of the 2 lakes.
There is a living history themed campsite called Fort Pontiac. Fort Pontiac was created by the Chief Pontiac Trail Committee (CPT) as a resource for scout units to conduct primitive skills training. It includes a blacksmith shoppe, carpentry shoppe and brick oven that may be used by units that have a leader who has taken the FORT Skills training conducted by the CPT. The CPT also conducts living history themed weekends during which the CPT committee members are in attendance in period clothing representing 1775. During these times the CPT fort staff are demonstrating period crafts and providing hands on activities to those in camp.
Lost Lake Scout Reservation
Lost Lake Scout Reservation (LLSR) is a 2385 acres (10 km²) camp located in Freeman TownshipFreeman Township, Michigan
Freeman Township is a civil township of Clare County in the U.S. state of Michigan. The population was 1,118 at the 2000 census.-Geography:According to the United States Census Bureau, the township has a total area of , of which, of it is land and of it is water.-Demographics:As of the census...
, Clare County in Northern Michigan
Northern Michigan
Northern Michigan, also known as Northern Lower Michigan , is a region of the U.S. state of Michigan...
. LLSR s a Boy Scout
Boy Scouts of America
The Boy Scouts of America is one of the largest youth organizations in the United States, with over 4.5 million youth members in its age-related divisions...
Camp and is the fourth of four pieces of property owned by the Great lakes Council. It was purchased for $350,000 in 1964. Lost Lake features very popular week long summer camp. Scouts from around the United States
United States
The United States of America is a federal constitutional republic comprising fifty states and a federal district...
can attend this camp. The camp has three lakes, the largest is 66 acres (267,092.8 m²) Lost Lake. The site is also the home of Bennett's Lodge, formerly a retreat owned by Ford Motor Company
Ford Motor Company
Ford Motor Company is an American multinational automaker based in Dearborn, Michigan, a suburb of Detroit. The automaker was founded by Henry Ford and incorporated on June 16, 1903. In addition to the Ford and Lincoln brands, Ford also owns a small stake in Mazda in Japan and Aston Martin in the UK...
executive Harry Bennett
Harry Bennett
Harry Bennett , a former boxer and ex-Navy sailor, was an executive at Ford Motor Company during the 1930s and 1940s. He was best known as the head of Ford’s Service Department, or Internal Security. While working for Ford, his union busting tactics, of which The Battle of the Overpass was a prime...
.
Order of the Arrow
The council is served by two Order of the Arrow lodges: Chippewa Lodge 29, which serves the northern portion of the council, and Migisi Opawgan Lodge 162, which serves the southern portion of the council. The council is one of three councils in the country that is home to two Order of the Arrow Lodges, with them being the Greater Saint Louis Area CouncilGreater Saint Louis Area Council
The Greater Saint Louis Area Council of the Boy Scouts was formed in 1911 and is based in Saint Louis, Missouri. It is the compilation of several former councils that have merged with the council over the years...
, and the Greater New York Councils operate one lodge in each of its five boroughs.
May 2011 will mark the end of Migisi Opawgan Lodge and Chippewa Lodge with the council merger of Clinton Valley Council and Detroit Area Council. Chippewa Lodge 29 and Migisi Opawgan Lodge 162 will reunite to form a new Noquet Lodge. Noquet is translated to mean, Bear Claw. The total member will reach near 2500 members making it the largest lodge in the State of Michigan.
Chippewa Lodge
- Chippewa Lodge, the first lodge in Michigan, was founded in 1938.
- In 2003, the lodge opened up the Chippy Trail, a ten mile (16 km) loop that goes through Lost Lake's back forty.
- One of the most unique characteristics of Chippewa Lodge is that they have not changed their lodge flap except for the addition of the Fleur de Lis.
- Brad Lichota, member of Chippewa lodge 29, elected as 2010 Order of the ArrowOrder of the ArrowThe Order of the Arrow is the national honor society of the Boy Scouts of America . It uses American Indian-styled traditions and ceremonies to bestow recognition on scouts selected by their peers as best exemplifying the ideals of Scouting. The society was created by E. Urner Goodman, with the...
National Chief at the 2009 national planning meeting. - Website: http://chippewa29.glcscouting.org/home.php
Migisi Opawgan Lodge
A little more than two weeks after the application was signed, charter members were initiated. They were William Hooper, William Knapp, Richard Nelson, Ernest Peterkin, and Andrew Watson of Camp Brady; and Hector Gordon, Robert MounteerMounteer
Mounteer is a surname that most likely originated in England.-First Mounteer:The origins of the name can be traced back to:EnglandUSABarbadosPossible Connections...
, and Robert Rutherford of Howell.
The Brady induction, at Waterford Hill Farm, was officiated by Chippewa Lodge 29 of Pontiac about two weeks prior to the Howell ceremony. Munhacke Lodge 88 of Ann Arbor inducted the first Howell group in Camp Newkirk on July 13, 1939.
Once started, groups from both camps continued the ordeal and induction weekly. By summer's end 50 Brady men and over 20 Howell men were in the Arrow.
At the April 15, 1941 Executive Board Meeting, Andy Watson, the lodges first lodge chief, reported on his research for a Lodge name. Mi-Gi-Si (Eagle) and O-Paw-Gan (Peace-Pipe) Both were accepted into both the Totem and Name Mi-Gi-Si O-Paw-Gan.