jwest93

We have the exact same award in our troop, usually for car camping. Patrol with the best overall food. We look at teamwork, cleanliness (ug!), and if they are somewhat using different food groups. We have adult 'judges' that go around and watch and test each patrol during the outing. At the end of the outing, usually during a Scout's own, we have the judges announce the patrol who has won. The SM even went and purchased a good sized plastic spoon and spray painted it Gold. We present this to the patrol and they can attach it to their flag until the next outing. They love it and to their credit, some of them have come up with some good menus (shis-ka-bobs, buffalo burgers, etc)We had one patrol who made strawberries and chocolate for dessert, which sounds great, but was pretty bad given the chocolate was overcooked. This wasn't even on their menu they just gave it a try. They got points for the trying part for sure. As far as patrol boxes, my suggestion would be just think basic!

Anonymous-this is a great question..one in fact the SM has already decided to discuss with the Boys at the next PLC meeting. We'll see what they come up with!

Thanks everyone for your different views! I agree, electronics are here to stay, but teaching responsibility is a great tool to these boys as well.

Wanted to get an opinion on how other troops handle the situation with electronic devises. Right now, our policy is electronic devises only allowed on the trip to/from only. I have to admit we are pretty laxy-dazy on this policy, as these boys can easily pull out ipods in their tent in the middle of the night. Last year at summer camp we had an incident where a boys ipod was stolen. Wether it was a boy in our troop or another troop was under much discussion. In the end we told the family that, although he shouldn't of had it, that is the risk one takes for bringing it. Nowadays - there are smart phones, ipods with wi-fi, devises that play movies, etc. We have boys who are allowed to watch rated r movies and some not, which to me is more appropriate as we are talking under 17 anyway. My feeling is not allowing the devises at all anymore. How does other handle this?