One way to effect a gentle and respectful change would be to start working on the Patrol level. Any patrol can go on hikes, camp, do special projects, etc. as long as they have 2 deep adult leadership. Once the SM notes the ensuing enthusiasm, he just might join the crowd. We encourage our patrols to participate in at least a single activity per year and it works miracles. It is also a way of getting other parents involved. Remember to take photographs! Another way to open up the troop might be for a patrol to volunteer to prepare a month's schedule for submittal to the PLC. Yet one more way to show originality would be for a patrol to work on the American Heritage Award program. It is not difficult and once completed, and they wear their MEDALS, someone will get the picture! Jim Wallace, T-312
