Troop 772, Marietta, GA

January 2012 camp-out/cook-off

2012-01-22T21:50:00.002-05:00

20-22 January

Campout at Allatoona Aquatics Base was great, even though it rained a lot. The highlight was the Ramen Noodle Cook-off. Final standings, the winner was the Phoenix Patrol’s Texas Chili Ramen. 2nd Place was the Archers’ Too Fly Fire Bird dish with spicy chicken. 3rd place was Mr. Brown’s Marietta Cattle Ramen.

The ramen noodle dishes were good except for Wing-chang-ching-chong by the Spartan Patrol. It rightly deserved last place and earned “would not be eaten by Bear Grills even for survival” rating on taste. Let’s just say it smelled like medicine. The competition was fun, each patrols dish was unique. It was cool.

We took a 3 mile hike and really liked making “king tree stump” at the beach. King tree stump’s crown was an old tire with a tree branch sticking out the top. That evening we had a campfire and celebrated Daniel’s 16th birthday with cake. Daniel also became a Junior Assistant Scoutmaster! It was the best campfire ever! We really need to think of another campout there in the summer.

Vogel State Park Campout

2012-01-10T23:00:00.003-05:00

Over the weekend, we adventured into Vogel State Park. A group of primarily younger scouts went a total of 16 miles, while the Philmont-bound scouts hiked a more mountainous 13 miles. the weather was most noticeably windy. The temperature dropped below freezing, proved by a frozen water bottle. A scout has said that, "It really opened the Philmont-bound scouts' eyes to how much we had to prepare." Beside the windy and cold weather, and mountainous trail for the Philmont-bound scouts, the campout was eye-opening and the food wasn't half bad.

October campout at McIntosh

2011-12-28T23:27:00.001-05:00

October 29, 2011: The Troop hosted a WEBELOS campout at Mcintosh Park ,
one in which our scouts took cub scouts under their wing and showed them what the Boy Scout experience was all about. They really got to see what camping, cooking and camp setup is all about with Troop 772. We hope that after their experience with us this weekend that they may join us in the Spring when they cross over to Boy Scouts.

Gregory Bald Backpacking Trip

2011-11-28T10:33:00.003-05:00

(November 19, 20, 21, 2011)

Saturday morning the Scouts and adults participating in this adventure gathered at John Knox Presbyterian Church at 6:00 a.m. to pull gear and get ready to depart. We left the church approximately 7:00 a.m. with cool temperatures and clear skies.

We arrived at the trailhead and began our hike. 5 miles in on the Twenty Mile trail, we stopped for lunch where the AT comes into this trail. We had our first taste of Philmont Food. Canned ham was enjoyed by most of the scouts. After lunch we continued to Burch Spring Gap, and climbed an abandoned fire tower where we were able to see Lake Fontana. 6.1 miles hiked for the day.

Uneventful evening. Camp was set up. Another Philmont meal of beef, potatoes and corn was prepared and enjoyed by most.

Sunday morning’s breakfast skillet was good. Camp was broken down and we began our hike in heavy fog. Drizzle began mid morning. Our miles for the day were 6.8. We set up camp using the “Philmont Way” at Sheep Pen Gap. Medium rainfall during the night didn't keep unknown critters from our campsite. The next morning, Hank’s water container was found ripped open 20 feet from the campsite in a thorn bush. Nathan’s water bottle was found 20 feet from camp under a log.

Monday morning was cold as we broke camp and prepared to leave. The weather started to change with dark clouds forming. The rain began as we crossed the first bridge and got heavier during the last two miles of the trek. EVERYTHING was soaked. Total miles 7.2

Everyone was glad for dry clothes and a hot meal at Wendy’s as we traveled back to Marietta.

Orienteering Campout - August 2011

2011-09-06T10:19:00.003-04:00

Bryan Wright conducted a Merit Badge Clinic on Orienteering. It was a fantastic success with over 8 Merit Badges being earned. And earned they were. The tick population was a bit more than we liked, but the good news is we left them all in Alabama. The weather was hot, but the big event was the Pop-Up Thunder Storm that simply drenched every one and every thing. Overall, it was one of those campouts that all who attended will remember.

Slide Show from Orienteering Campout - August 2011

Personal Fitness Nutrition Activity

2011-06-07T19:03:00.002-04:00

To complete requirement 5 of the personal fitness merit badge please go to the following site and complete the activity. Print out the results and show it to ans assistant scoutmaster to get credit.
http://www.choosemyplate.gov/myplate/index.aspx

2011-05-16T20:02:00.002-04:00

For those who did not see the presentation on the Department of Homeland Security, it is now available at https://docs.google.com/leaf?id=0B2w9omt86EyNNzhhNGM2ODktZTI4MS00N
TczLThiNDEtNzM2NDdlZjUzMmFi&hl=en

Raven Cliffs, May 2011

2011-05-12T15:59:00.000-04:00

Shootout 2011

2011-04-20T09:17:00.003-04:00

The April Shoot-out was a tremendous success. Everyone got to shoot plenty of 22 cal and shotgun and many scouts are on their way to earning the Rifle and Shotgun Merit Badges. This was our first time at Bert Adams Scout Reservation, but it sure won't be the last. The staff was friendly, knowledgeable, and outright cool. The hit of the weekend was the automatic clay pigeon launcher. It sure made it a lot easier for all. Can't wait for next years shoot-out.

Greetings from Andersonville

2011-03-21T08:54:00.005-04:00

The Troop went down to South Georgia during the weekend of March 18th for a great weekend of camping and to visit Andersonville National site. This is the home of the National POW Museum and also the site of the infamous Civil War Prison Camp, Camp Sumter.

We had perfect weather and were able to camp just off the park grounds. The site was primitive, but was one of the best camp sites we have seen in a long time. We spent most of Saturday visiting the Museum, which really made us all think about how people treat people during time of war. It sure made us all proud of where we live and the sacrifice made by others. We also had a great game of capture the flag.

The mock-up of the Prison Camp also made us realize just how bad things were during the Civil War and how POW’s were treated. All in all, we walked away having a great experience and Andersonville is on our list to do again in a few years.

Mr. Kolakowski's Group Photos

SWC, January 2011

2011-02-04T09:37:00.003-05:00

The Scouting Winter Campout (SWC) held on January 21-23 was a huge success for the 16 Adults who attended for our Troop. We were part of some 30+ other Troops who attended this wild, wild event, each of us given a unique Patrol Name. We were called "The Underdogs", but we were far from being an underdog, for we were able to place in 3 of the 5 activities and actually earned 6 beads and a trusted bear claw.

The weather lived up to it's billing of being a Winter Campout, nice blue sky during the day, but at night the mercury dropped into the mid teens. I really think it snowed in my tent Saturday night. But we all stayed warm and learned some secrets from the experienced SWC Campers on just how to stay warm. (Hot water in a Nalgene bottle works great.)

On Saturday night we had a very unique dining experience, for we feasted like kings, ate to our hearts content, and had a chance to show off with some very Artful table decorations. The other patrols simply went hog-wild with their table decorations with 1st place going to the the Rescue Dogs patrol who had a huge papier-mâché St. Bernard dog. The only question was, "Where did they find the time??"

We had the whole gauntlet of experience within our patrol, several being their first time, and others going for their 20th. I did have to ask them again and again, "why are we here?", but by Sunday morning it did become pretty clear as to the why. It was our one chance to be a scout again and not worry about everything else, at least for 36 hours, and it was fun, cold feet and all.

- Mr. Kolakowski

Silver Comet Trail, 2010

2011-01-10T13:25:00.003-05:00

Mr. White has posted his photos from the November bike ride on the Silver Comet rail trail. Here's a sample. To see them all at Snapfish click here (registration required).

High Shoals Creek Campout

2010-09-09T11:29:00.002-04:00

Here's a link to my Flckr stream of photos from High Shoals (the static version)...

Mr. Flamm's Photos

Mr. Flamm

Backpacking to Three Forks

2010-07-27T16:33:00.004-04:00

The Three Forks (July 16-18) campout was an adventure. We hiked around 12 miles going back and forth The troop also camped out 2 nights and had our picture taken on the starting point of the AT (Springer Mountain). The scouts that went on the campout were from Spartan patrol Ryan, Mike, Chris, John, Nathan, and Daniel. The scouts that came from Phoenix were Will, Patrick, Hank and Jakob. The scouts from Archer were Jeremiah, Jalil, Jeremy and Addison. The scouts from serpent were Aidan, Bryce, Matt and Jerry. The adults that went were Mr. Brown, Mr. Smith, Mr. Dinehart, Mr. Wright, Mr. K.C. Smith, Mr. White, and Mr.Farber.

We started out from the top of Springer Mountain and hiked down 1 mile to the parking lot to have breakfast. The troop spilt into two groups so we would not disturb as any other hikers. The troop met back together ½ mile from the campsite and ate lunch together. The next thing was set up our tent next to the creek that ran right next to our campsite. The new scouts had a section of their campsite to themselves which might not have been a good idea. They set up one dining fly that was one big piece of art. It would have been blown apart as soon as the rain hit but luckily no rain We all changed into bathing suits and made a massive dam that made a pool 4 feet deep. The troop played in the creek for upwards of 2 hours, so by dinner time we were all hungry.

The next day we packed up relatively quickly and left for the Benton MacKaye trail which was more difficult but lower mileage. On the first 100 yards some scouts had trouble keeping up.. We took breaks every 100 feet for them to keep going and once they got there second wind they took off running.

All in all it was a very eventful weekend. The new scouts learned more basic camping skills and the older scouts learn a little bit of leadership skills. The troop also had a wonderful time on this campout.

From The SPL pen,

Nathan

Summer Camp 2010

2010-07-09T12:22:00.004-04:00

Summer Camp was busy for the whole troop. We had 24 scouts attend Woodruff this past June with many adults along the way to help out. Many of the new scouts attended the Mountain Man Program. This is a key program for all first year scouts to get a good start on their road to Tenderfoot & First Class. Other activities attended were:

Water Sports - Scouts learned to Water Ski and Wake Boarding
Climbing - High, very high adventure with scouts scaling 50' walls, repelling down them and flying along a 100 yard Zip Line.
Cooking - Scouts learned how to cook a good meal, for both at Home or on the Trail.
Emergency Prep - Scouts learned how to prepare for the worst, and hope it never comes, but a MUST KNOW.
Rifle/Shotgun and Bow/Arrow - With the emphasis on safety, scouts learned how to use them all.
Rafting Trip down a river.

plus many many more activities, Woodruff offers them all.

Phoenix Patrol Hikes the AT

2009-08-04T07:51:00.003-04:00

The Phoenix patrol had a fun backpacking hike on the Springer Mountain part of the AT. We saw deer, waterfalls and played in the creek. We heard an owl that night and slept really good in the campsite that we choose by the creek.

-- Hank M, Phoenix Patrol Scribe

50 Miler, Fires Creek & Hiwasee River

2009-07-21T21:07:00.004-04:00

The Fires Creek Rim Trail is 26 miles of up and down. This trail was one of the hardest trails most of us had done. We summited countless peaks with no switchbacks. There were multiple times we went in search of a reasonable water source to pump drinking water from. Also we found plenty of opportunities for disaster, none of which were exploited. On our second night we got pounded with rain in tents that were incapable of repelling the water that was hitting them. Soon after we woke up, we began drying out gear and sleeping bags. Many of us wanted to quit. When we pulled into camp in the evening we were praying that no more rain would come. Thankfully it didn’t. The final day on the trail finished with pizza, coke, and a much wanted campfire.

The canoeing on the Hiwassee River was not easy for some of us. Near the afternoon the wind would come in and blow us every which way. We ended up doing ~24 miles on the water, our final destination was a boat ramp that never seemed to get any closer no matter how hard we pulled with the paddle.

Over all, it is a good trail and river, and definitely on my “been there done that, (and don’t want to do it again)” list.

-- Timothy, SPL

Memorial day flag placement

2009-05-27T10:14:00.003-04:00

We had six scout come out to Marietta National Cemetery last Saturday to help honor our nation's fallen soldiers. Good job everyone.

Shoot-out 2009

2009-04-20T21:18:00.003-04:00

The annual troop shoot-out this month was a great success. The weather was great and we shot rifle and shotgun all weekend. Coyotes cried and clay pigeons "died".

Congratulations To New Eagle Scout Kenny Busey

2009-02-22T23:15:00.008-05:00

Kenny Busey successfully completed his Eagle Board of Review this Thursday. Great job, Kenny!

Service project at John Knox

2009-02-07T12:27:00.006-05:00

Saturday we had a great turn-out for a service project spreading new mulch onto the playground at John Knox church. Good job, everyone!

Foothills District Banquet - February 2009

2009-02-06T18:26:00.002-05:00

Troop 772 once again received the coveted Chicken Pin award for accomplishing its goals in 2008. Congratulations to the Scouts and Scouters and Parents of Troop 772 for a great year!

Congratulations to Troop 772's Newest Eagle Scout

2009-01-22T10:35:00.003-05:00

Congratulations to Sam Gantt who successfully completed his Eagle Board of Review last week. Well done!

SWC 2009 - Jan 2009

2009-01-11T09:30:00.001-05:00

Holiday Court of Honor - Dec 2008

2008-12-16T08:41:00.004-05:00

Raven Cliffs Overnight-Dec 2008

2008-12-07T08:25:00.004-05:00

Camperall - Sept 2008

2008-09-21T08:19:00.001-04:00

Camping, Springer Mountain

2008-08-10T11:32:00.003-04:00

The Springer Mountain trip in August was a great success. It was the first backpacking trip for some of our scouts. ... The same hike can be a lot different depending on whether you're going uphill or downhill. :)

Springer Mountain is the southern end of the Appalachian Trail and a great place to hike and camp.

August 5 meeting

2008-07-26T12:05:00.000-04:00

The August 5 Troop meeting will be at McFarlane Nature Park. We will start at our normal time. We will do some orienteering and have a flag retirement ceremony. There may be food; that will be worked out at next weeks meeting.

Scouters Winter Campout - Jan 2008

2008-01-06T08:09:00.006-05:00

Snake Night - May 29,2007

2007-07-07T12:27:00.001-04:00

0529072018a.jpg
Originally uploaded by eflamm

Troop 772 enjoyed a special treat when one of the scouts had a run-in with a small copperhead on a family outing. A neighbor, Westby Slade, offered to dissect the snake and show the scouts what he found. It was certainly a memorable night for those in attendance!

(I took these photos on my new camera phone, so they are a little different..)

Congratulations to Troop 772's Newest Eagle Scout - Martin Kaido

2007-05-18T16:13:00.000-04:00

Martin successfully completed his Eagle Scout Board of Review on Thursday, May 17.

Troop 772 Eagle Scout Commended in Senate Resolution

2007-05-09T16:17:00.000-04:00

State Senator Judson Hill presents Troop 772 Eagle Scout Brian Corbett with Georgia Senate Resolution 458 dated March 20, 2007 and signed by Lieutenant Governor Casey Cagle, Robert Ewing, Senate President Pro Tempore Eric Johnson, and Senator Hill. The resolution commends Brian for achieving the rank of Eagle Scout and for his service and character. The full text of the resolution is available at http://www.broc.state.ga.us/legis/2007_08/fulltext/sr458.htm. May 8, 2007 at Holy Family Catholic Church.

Congratulations to Troop 772's Newest Eagle Scout - Nick Jensen

2007-04-20T16:26:00.000-04:00

Nick with his parents and Mr. Farber after completing his Eagle Scout Board of Review on
Thursday, April 19, 2007.

OA Elections - February 2007

2007-02-09T14:51:00.000-05:00

Congratulations to Sam G., David, Brennen and Ian on their election to the Order of the Arrow. Now they must complete their Ordeal to become members of the OA Lodge.

Coosa Backcountry Trail - January 2007

2007-01-21T14:41:00.000-05:00

Our January campout was at the Coosa Backcountry Trail which starts in Vogel State Park, loops through the Blood Mountain Wilderness Area, up Coosa Bald, over Slaughter Mountain and back to Vogel Park. The trail is 12.5 long, approximately 2000 feet in elevation change, and rugged. In attendance was Peter McKenna, Brian Flamm, Jeremy Drennan, Sam Francis, David Forman, Brean Grassley, Sam Gantt, Jaime McKenzie, Brian Corbett, Mr. Farber, Mr. Fitzner, Mr. Gantt, Mr. McKenzie, Mr. Wright, and Mr. McKenna.

The troop left the church at 7:00 pm and headed to the mountains – about an hour and a half drive. We stopped for a quick break at McDonalds just before Delongah. After the break, we headed back out For Vogel and arrived around 9:30 pm. Paul Fitzner met us in the parking lot at the Ranger Station with all the registration and permits we needed for the campout.

Our permit required us to camp outside the Vogel boundary and, thus begin the first part of our outing, a night hike starting at 9:50 Friday night! It was cold, low twenties, but walking with full packs warmed us up fast. The night hike part of the trip lasted about and hour until we found a place to camp. We set up fast and went to bed.

Saturday morning was still cold and no one was out of bed before 7:30 am. Mr. Farber had breakfast Saturday morning for the adults – he did drop and break the egg bottle loosing about four of the 12 eggs. The scouts prepared breakfast by patrol, cleaned up, and got ready to go before the adults, as usual.

Saturday was our “big” day, about six miles, up hill all the way. This hike was one the toughest we have ever done. At the end of the day all of us were exhausted. The temperature, however, had moderated which made camp setup much easier. Some of the Scouts were too tired to cook dinner, and so fixed leftovers form lunch for their dinner. As usual, Mr. Wright had a splendid meal of hot pieta bread sandwiches, and hot chocolate.

After a good nights sleep, Sunday came on strong! When we finished eating breakfast and got packed, the rain started. Our five mile hike out was long and mostly down hill except for the one last giant hill at the beginning of the
morning. The down hill was steep and hard. The wind was blowing fast, and the temperature was in the high 30’s low 40’s. This was a hike only for the best – Troop 772!

About 11:30 am, we finally finished the hike. We accomplished a rugged trip, map reading training by Mr. Wright, and great expectations of a hot pizza lunch and a special ice cream desert treat from Mr. Wright in Blue Ridge Ga.

By Tuesday’s meeting we were all talking about the great time we had on our campout. It is still amazing how the “fun factor” increases after a few days back and a hot shower or two. As of now David, Sam, and Peter are putting together trip ideas for February. Can we even wait for the next campout?

Dec. 9, 2006 Campout: Fort Benning, Columbus, Ga

2006-12-10T14:19:00.000-05:00

Scouts: Jamie McKenzie, Peter McKenna, Ian Graessle, Brennen Graessle, Rod Shirazi, Sam Gantt
Guests: Charlie McKenna, Kyle Corbett
Scouters: Rick Farber, David McKenna, Kriss McKenzie Brian Wright and Pete Corbett

Well this was my last official campout as Scoutmaster and I have to say it was a great one! Lots of cool things were seen, Scouts had a great activity, and I was able to spend some time with my son Kyle. Kyle never got into scouts but loves military stuff so it was very easy to get him interested to attend. Just goes to show you in Scouting you can reach every young man - you just have to have all the buttons to push!!

All the Scouts and Scouters were on time early Saturday morning for our 7:00 am departure time….Mr. Hall was even kind enough to meet us to bring the troop first aid kit. We had great weather and no one was on the road so we made it to the base by 10:00. When we got to the base thanks to Osama there was a major check-in that I was unaware of. All the drivers had to have their current registration with them. For just a brief moment we were not sure if we all had our registrations. Good fortune had it we all were properly documented and allowed to enter the base. We made our way slowly through the base and marveled at all the activity (training) going on and could not wait to dig in.

Our Campsite was on Uchee Creek on the other side of the base across the Chattahoochee. We set up camp and decided to go to the Infantry museum and have lunch there and then for the afternoon have the long bike trip trough the base. We got to the Museum a little early which gave the scouts time to enjoy all the tank and artillery pieces outside…we ate lunch in the huge field in front of the Museum and then took the tour. The Museum was three floors of history: guns, uniforms, jeeps you name it. However the most interesting was when Mr. Wright pointed out the Ranger Creed:

The Ranger Creed
Recognizing that I volunteered as a Ranger, fully knowing the hazards of my chosen profession, I will always endeavor to uphold the prestige, honor, and high esprit de corps of my Ranger Regiment.

Acknowledging the fact that a Ranger is a more elite soldier who arrives at the cutting edge of battle by land, sea, or air, I accept the fact that as a Ranger my country expects me to move farther, faster and fight harder than any other soldier.

Never shall I fail my comrades. I will always keep myself mentally alert, physically strong and morally straight and I will shoulder more than my share of the task whatever it may be. One-hundred-percent and then some.

Gallantly will I show the world that I am a specially selected and well-trained soldier. My courtesy to superior officers, neatness of dress and care of equipment shall set the example for others to follow.

Energetically will I meet the enemies of my country. I shall defeat them on the field of battle for I am better trained and will fight with all my might. Surrender is not a Ranger word. I will never leave a fallen comrade to fall into the hands of the enemy and under no circumstances will I ever embarrass my country.

Readily will I display the intestinal fortitude required to fight on to the Ranger objective and complete the mission though I be the lone survivor.

RANGERS and SCOUTS LEAD THE WAY!

After the tour we went back to camp and the Bike group took off for the afternoon for their 15 Mile trek. Mr. Farber, Kyle, and I held down the campsite, and Mr. McKenna and son Charlie went on their own Tandem bike trip. All made it back safely for dinner. Mr. McKenna made a great one pot rice and pork sausage meal topped off with chocolate chip cookies. The Scouts had hamburgers.

We had a Blue Bead night as all the water in camp was frozen! The scouts got all packed up Sunday Morning and we went back over to the base for a short bike trip to a different part of the base.

The trip will be very memorable for me not only because of my time as Scoutmaster but to visit a place where young people are training to provide us the freedoms we enjoy was very humbling. I also just spoke with my dad about the trip and found out he was stationed there in 1943 prior to going to Europe for D Day.

What a Country!!

Great weather, Great fellowship, Great scouting.

Scoutmaster Corbett

Campout: Beech Creek Loop Trail Tate City, SC (Cohutta)

2006-11-19T23:51:00.000-05:00

November 17, 18 & 19, 2006

Scouts: Jaime McKenzie & Peter McKenna
Scouters: Rick Farber, David McKenna, John Hall, and Pete Corbett

We dubbed this trip the Beech Creek BUSHWACKER 2006!

All but myself went up Friday night and I joined the crew early Saturday morning. Unfortunately Fridays drive was a bear just getting out of town; by the time the crew found their way into the Cohutta and put their heads to the pillow it was well past midnight. I caught up with them at 8:30 Sat morning and they were well into preparing breakfast. After warm waffles and sausage we worked our way from the cook site near the cars back up to the campsite about one half mile up the trail. It took the scouts a little bit of time to get ready for the trail. We decided based on the time to instead of the 12 mile loop to do the shorter 5-6 mile loop and at the end of the day that was a good choice.

We started up the trail around 10:30 and it was a strong UP. We found Chimney Rock at around 1PM and stopped for lunch. Pete and Jamie found a rope to pull themselves up to the top for a great view. Based on the time we broke out the map and talked over with the scouts about setting compass heading and BUSHWACKING down the mountain to intersect the trail and then find a campsite to put us into camp by 3-4 PM before dark. The concern was the trail if we took it looked considerably longer than the bushwhack trail and plus the idea of following a compass heading to find our way sounded fun.

The downhill trek was a challenge, and all along the way the scouts felt we were off course but when they looked at the compass it proved them wrong and set them on the right course. After 2 hours of working slowly down the hillside to where the trail was shown on the map we reached the trail and it followed the stream just like the map showed on the correct compass bearing. The scouts were proud of their work.

We worked our way down the trail to look for a nice flat campsite but being in a river bottom we could not find a good spot. After about a mile of easier walking we came to a stream crossing to high to just walk across, plus the water was chilly at best. Mr. Hall was the first there and started to make a rock bridge to cross. When we all caught up to him we pitched in to compete an adequate crossing. With caution we all made it across and not too far down the trail we found a great spot by the river to camp.

The Scouts set up camp and the bear bag, ate a quick dinner and went to sleep exhausted from the days events. We Scouters built a small fire and enjoyed its warmth before calling it a day.

In the morning we set out early only to find two more stream crossings as challenging as the first. The last one we decided to take off our boots raise up our pants and wade across the water in Crocs….man was that cold water!!!

We came off the trail about one mile south of where we thought we were. It seems we missed a turn somewhere…but all in all our compass and map did not let us down!

Great weather, Great fellowship, Great scouting.

Scoutmaster Corbett

October 2006 Campout: Camp Woodruff Camporall

2006-10-15T23:53:00.000-04:00

October 10-13, 14, & 15, 2006

Campout: Camp Woodruff Camporall

Scouts: Sam Gantt, Jaime McKenzie, Ian Graessle, Brennan Graessle, and David Forman
Scouters: Rick Farber, Don Gantt, David McKenna, Eric Flamm, Paul Fitzner, Rick Aschenbach, Brian Wright, Tim Holahan and Pete Corbett

This was our big Catapult Show!

We decided as a troop to put on a game for this years event and we invited Pack 565 to join us. We had 14 Webelos and 8 Leaders from Pack 565 join us as our guests for the weekend.

The weather could not have been more perfect. Mr Gantt brought lots of fire wood and we enjoyed two nights of great fellowship around the fire with all in attendance.

The Catapult game consisted of 3 small catapults the scouts built and each team that came up had 3 shots and the furthest counted. From the results we were able to award a first, second and third ribbon to each of the Webelos, and Troop patrols that played the game. It was clear the winners were the ones that communicated the best amongst each other to get the most out of the catapult. Mr. Gantt went to camp early on Friday to help set up camp and to get the BIG catapult built as kind of a centerpiece. Our game drew lots of attention and all who played said they had a great time and looked forward to building there own catapults.

All the meals were great and the leaders from 565 all pitched in to help. Mr. Farbers boiled hot dogs went fast and Mr. Flamms cobbler warmed our bellies before bed.

Pack 565 said they learned a lot and had a great time joining us!

Great weather, Great fellowship, Great scouting.

Scoutmaster Corbett

September Campout: Cloudland Canyon SP

2006-09-24T00:15:00.000-04:00

Overnight to Cloudland Canyon State Park - September 23-24, 2006

Scouts:Rod Shirazi, Peter McKenna, Brennan and Ian Graessle, Jaime McKenzie, Brian Corbett, Brian Flamm
Guests: Charlie McKenna, Andre Hosseinpour
Scouters:Rick Farber, Eric Flamm, David McKenna

August 2006 Campout: Pine Mountain Trail, Pine Mountain GA

2006-08-27T23:54:00.000-04:00

August 26& 27, 2006

Campout: Pine Mountain Trail, Pine Mountain GA

Scouts: Pete McKenna, Jamie McKennsie, and Ian Graessle
Scouters: Rick Farber, and Pete Corbett

Pine Mt campout was our official first campout for the new school year.

Although we had a small turn out we decided to make the trip a lightweight trip which means we work to keep our packs less then 30 pounds fully loaded with water and food. The Scouts and Scouters used Tarps to sleep under which always helps dramatically to lower our weight. The scouts also chose to use the fires tablets to cook with instead of our traditional stoves. Everyone did a great job packing only the essentials for safety and reasonable comfort which made for lightweight packs.

Unfortunately the weather was August HOT…and the one good thing is we had the trail all to ourselves. We set out from the Church early Saturday morning got down to the check in bought our pass and we were on the trail by 10. The Scouts chose the Cascade falls trek all total about a 8 Mile loop. We got to our camp site at around 1 set up our tarps had lunch and took a trek down to the Cascade Falls where the scouts took a cool dip in the water. It made a big difference!! We walked back to camp with plenty of water for dinner and the scouts worked the afternoon building an emergency shelter. Ian was going to sleep in the shelter but opted out.

Dinner took longer than normal as the cooking tablets did not boil water as fast as the scouts stoves normally do. After dinner the scouts worked up a big camp fire and enjoyed fellowship around the fire into the evening hours.

The next morning we got on the trail early to make it to the closest Wendys for Brunch…..all had a great time and brought home some great memories including dreaded Chigger Bites.

Great weather, Great fellowship, Great scouting.

Scoutmaster Corbett

June, 2006: 50-miler to Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness, Ely, MN

2006-07-04T00:28:00.000-04:00

On June 24, 12 scouts and scouters departed Atlanta for the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness, via Minneapolis and Ely, Minnesota. Eventually, I hope to publish some thoughts from each of the participants; for now, I just have some pictures...

Crew 1 Scouts: Brian Corbett, Brian Flamm
Crew 2 Scouts: Peter McKenna, Brennan Graessle, Ian Graessle
Crew 1 Scouters: Pete Corbett, Richard Scherck, Eric Flamm, Mark Ferrano
Crew 2 Scouters: Rick and Steven Farber, David McKenna

Crew 1 at the departure on Snowbank Lake
Coming in from an after-dinner paddle on Ensign Lake
Scoutmaster Corbett with dinner

The Flamms take a portage break

OOPS!
Jordan Lake
Campsite on Disappointment Lake

June 11 - Scouts depart for summer camp at Woodruff

2006-06-14T23:51:00.000-04:00

Scouts assemble at John Knox to be assigned vehicles for the drive up to Camp Woodruff. Upon arrival, the scouts met their camp commissioner (Nate) and hiked across camp to campsite 21, our home for the next 6 days. Then it was back to the dining hall for waiter training, and then down to the waterfront for swim checks.

June 3 - Troop 772 Scouts Complete BSA National Youth Leadership Training (Green Bar)

2006-06-14T23:30:00.000-04:00

Troop 772 scouts David Forman and Brian Flamm completed the BSA National Youth Leadership Training program, formerly known as Green Bar. The program involves a week of camping, cooking, classes, games and other challenges to develop a better understanding of leadership and provide some tools for the scouts to bring back to the troop. The classes are all taught by scouts who have already been through the program and volunteered to return as staff the following year.

May 20 - Canoe Practice

2006-05-20T01:05:00.000-04:00

The Ely Crews took advantage of a warm spring day to visit Lake Allatoona Aquatics Base and practice paddling in the wind, one and two canoe rescues, and solo recovery techniques. Scouts participating were Brian Flamm, Brian Corbett, Ian and Brennen Graessle, and Sam Francis. Kyle Corbett (Brian's brother) also joined us, along with Scouters Pete Corbett, Rick Farber, and Eric Flamm. Brian F., Ian and Brennen completed the final requirements for Canoeing Merit Badge.

Tipping the canoe over takes lots of practice...

Don't worry, we'll save you!

Brian and Sam's first attempt at a one canoe rescue...

I can see better if I stand up!

Submitted By: E. Flamm 5/22/2006

May 13 - NESA Day

2006-05-13T01:29:00.000-04:00

6 scouts participated in the annual NESA (National Eagle Scout Association) advancement day at Georgia Perimeter College in Clarkston: Ian and Brennen Graessle, Jaime McKenzie, David Forman, Ramkumar Vedagiri, and Rod Shirazi all took the Citizenship in the Community Merit Badge, completing all but the service project requirements during the day.

Many thanks to Mrs. Graessle and Mr. McKenzie for providing transportation and supervision for our scouts!

Submitted by: E. Flamm, 5/22/2006

April 25, 2006 Boards of Review

2006-04-25T17:39:00.000-04:00

We conducted 2 Boards of Review on Tuesday, April 25. Peter McKenna of the Roadkill patrol advanced to Star, and Brennen Graessle of the Roadkill patrol advanced to First Class. Congratuations, Peter and Brennen.

April 21-23 - Flint River Overnight

2006-04-23T17:41:00.000-04:00

8 scouts (Brian Corbett, Brian Flamm, Ian and Brennen Graessle, Peter McKenna, David Forman, Jaime McKenzie, and Sam Francis) and 5 adults (Pete Corbett, Eric Flamm, Rick Farber, Dave McKenna, and Mark Ferrano) participated in an overnight canoe trip on the Flint River. We were organized into our crews for the Quetico trip this summer, with an extra crew for the scouts who aren't going to Ely.
We started at Lawhorn Canoe Base (Flint River Council) and paddled to Evans Island (around 8 miles, I think) on Saturday. We had lots of time on Saturday to relax or play on the shoals. On Sunday, we paddled down to the Highway 316 bridge (about another 7 miles) where we were met by the canoe base staff and transported back to camp. We ate lunch in camp and hit the road for Marietta.

April 15: Nick Jensen's Eagle Scout Leadership Project

2006-04-15T01:40:00.000-04:00

Nick's project involved building a bridge at the Island Ford division of the Chattahoochee National Recreation Area. The bridge will enable improved access to the forest, and preserve the natural runoff paths in the area.

April 7-9: Shootout!

2006-04-09T01:37:00.000-04:00

March 19, 2006 - Canoeing at Lake Allatoona

2006-03-21T15:40:00.000-05:00

Scouts: Brian Flamm, Peter McKenna, Jaime McKenzie, Ian Graessle, Brennen Graessle
Scouters: Mr. Corbett, Mr. Rick Farber, Mr. Steve Farber, Mr. Flamm, Mr. Scherck

We found some time to get a half day of canoeing at Lake Allatoona in preparation for our 50-miler in Canada this summer. There was a light rain and temperatures were on the cool side, so we got our paddles and PFDs (Personal Flotation Devices) and got the canoes on the water quickly so we could get warm and get moving. We paddled across the cove and along the shoreline, with the leaders providing instruction and encoragement to the scouts. We landed on a "beach" so we could get our bearings and switch paddling positions. On the way back we focused on paddling as a team, and keeping the canoe pointed in a straight line using the 5 standard strokes. After we got back to the base, we set up a solo canoe course and let each scout navigate his own canoe - everyone was successful once we got the kinks worked out.
We enjoyed a hot dog and chips lunch prepared by Peter McKenna, then decided to call it a day because of afternoon activity conflicts and the risk of the weather getting worse (which it did!)

Submitted by: Eric Flamm

February Update

2006-02-13T21:23:00.000-05:00

Wow, it's been a busy couple of weeks. Since we got back from Blood Mountain, we've had an Scoutmaster/PLC meeting, a Family Court of Honor, the District Banquet, and Miles' Eagle Court of Honor. I thought I'd share some highlights with you...

Scoutmaster/PLC Meeting: The scoutmaster corps meets with the PLC on the last Monday of each month to plan the next month's meetings and review upcoming events. We met on January 30th and discussed the upcoming Courts of Honor, the Troop election, and the February campout. The Troop election will be held on February 14, with the SPL and Patrol Leaders to be elected; the SPL appoints the other troop officers with advice from the Scoutmaster. We're also going to hold our OA election that night - we need at least half of our scouts to be there to vote for the OA candidates. The February campout will be at Lake Allatoona on 2/24-2/26 - we'll be working on canoe skills for the Ely crew, and scout skills for the rest of the troop. We decided to have a swim day at the YWCA on 2/21, so we can run swim checks for the canoeists in a heated pool rather than the rather chilly lake.

Troop Court of Honor: I moved this to a separate post to properly recognize all of our scouts!

Foothills District Banquet: Troop 772 was represented at the 2006 Foothills District banquet by Eric and Jill Flamm. The annual banquet recognizes Scouters and Units for their contributions to the Foothill District during the previous year. Troop 772 was recognized for its Katrina Relief efforts and received District Honor Roll recognition for the 3rd year in a row. We also collected the Good Egg award for Lisa Graessle for her work on our Greenery Sales Fundraiser, which will be presented at an upcoming troop meeting.

The banquet also recognizes District scouters who earned the Silver Beaver award during the year as well as the District Award of Merit recipients.

Miles Gantt's Eagle Court of Honor: I'll leave it to Miles and his family to contribute a blog entry on this great event. The ceremony in the sanctuary was really well put together, and there was a good crowd on hand to recognize Miles for his achievement. A highlight was the poster size photo of Miles on the trail which everyone was asked to sign. Congratulations, Miles!

Submitted by Eric Flamm, Troop Committee Chairman

Troop Court of Honor - January 31, 2006

2006-01-31T21:59:00.000-05:00

We held our first Court of Honor for 2006 on January 31. Justin Thomas (District Executive) gave a brief presentation on the Family Friends of Scouting campaign for 2006; I have extra pledge cards if you need one! I'd like to thank the hospitality committee (Jill Flamm, Judy Francis, Greta Gantt, and Theresa Forman) for all their hard work setting up the Fellowship Hall.

We handed out troop activity beads for SWC and Blood Mountain. We distributed the Quality Unit 2006 patches, which are worn on the right sleeve of the uniform. This is our 3rd year in a row completing the Quality Unit qualification, which is part of the District Honor Roll requirements. We also received the National Camping Award (Bronze) ribbon and the Quality Unit ribbon for the troop flag.

We distributed certificates recognizing troop volunteers who assisted with the Katrina relief effort: Eric Flamm, Lisa Graessle, Ian Graessle, Brennen Graessle, Pete Corbett, and Ted Scherck and Ted's firm, The Colography Group. We handed out a few Service Stars, recognizing years of service to Scouting and recognized 3 scouts who earned Merit Badges since our last Court of Honor. Finally, we recognized the scouts who advanced in rank:

Ian Graessle: Tenderfoot
Brennen Graessle: Tenderfoot
Sam Gantt: Star

and we recognized our 3 new Eagle Scouts: Miles Gantt, Max Francis, and Brian Flamm.

Submitted by Eric Flamm, Troop Committee Chairman

Blood Mountain Wilderness

2006-01-29T16:57:00.000-05:00

Scouts: Cameron Jensen, Nick Jensen, Brian Flamm, Alex Smith, David Forman, Brennen Graessle, Ian Graessle, Peter McKenna, Jaime McKenzie, & Rod Shirazi

Scouters: Rick Farber, Paul Fitzner, Eric Flamm, Taylor Hall, David McKenna, Brian Wright, Kriss McKenzie, Pete Corbett

As tradition would have it we once again ascended the mighty Blood Mountain and returned fortunately unscathed but with the usual stories to tell.

On Friday night we left the church around 7:15 pm and drove to the parking area at Woody Gap. We night-hiked to Mr. Fitzner’s "campsite" about .8 miles north along the Appalachian Trail. Our SPL for the weekend was Cameron Jensen and he proceeded to get all the scouts set up and the bear bag was hoisted by Peter McKenna and Rod Shirazi before calling it a night. The night gave us a spectacular sky and at least 2 shooting stars were observed.

Saturday morning everyone was up and prepping Breakfast just after 7:30. Mr Wright and Mr. Farber treated the Scouters to scrambled egg and mushroom burritos with sauteed peppers and onions and the scouts had a mix of pancakes and bacon. It was decided to send one crew up the short (steep) side with Rod and Jaime. Together with Scouters Flamm, Hall, and McKenzie, they hiked back to the parking area and drove to Neels Gap for the 2.5 mile ascent (after some timely shopping at the Mountain Crossings store).
The remainder of the Scouts and Scouters continued on from the Friday night camp site the 8.5 miles to the top.
The day was in the high 50’s and the sun shone all day long. As in the past the mountain was a challenge and the long trail crew made it to the summit at 4:30 while the short side crew made it to camp around 4:00. This hike was Jaime’s first real backpacking adventure and it took a little more effort then they possibly anticipated but they made it. It was also a first time to Blood Mountain for our Committee Chair Mr Flamm and hopeful new scouter Mr. McKenzie; both fared well enough and were in great spirits when we arrived.

Saturday evening gave us a fair sunset but the seeds of a questionable night were beginning to sprout. The older scouts were comfortably set up in the shelter and the younger scouts found great spots amongst the rocks and or trees with protection from the wind. Dinner for the scouts ranged from cold real pizza to the good old ramen noodles (hot). The Scouters had penne pasta with olive oil, spices and parmesan cheese, followed by Milano cookies and hot drinks. All were tired from the days trek and called it a night around 8.

The night was warmer than usual and I can remember mother nature calling me around 2 PM and thank goodness for small favors, because shortly thereafter the temperature clearly was dropping and the wind picked up considerably and then the rain’s kept a coming!! I can remember lying there just looking forward to sunlight and all the fun that goes with packing up in the rain. I was also thinking about Mr. Fitzner, Mr. Wright and Mr Farber who normally set up camp on the actual top of the mountain vs. down in the rocks. Sure enough, Mr Fitzner was actually rolled by the wind while in his tent and Mr Wright took on considerable water. The wind was pretty amazing. Fortunately the rain gave us a break and we were able to break camp in just the fog and a very light misty rain.

The older Scouts really stepped up this trip and helped out the younger scouts break camp in less than comfortable conditions. It was a very proud moment for me to see this done with very little groaning and moaning…they even helped carry some gear and trash that was not theirs down the mountain and cleaned out the shelter of the mess left by previous campers.

Peter McKenna led us in a great Scouts Own Service Sunday morning. We took some great group photos and headed down the mountain around 10:45 am. We took some time to refit Jaime McKenzies backpack and it made a great difference as he just strutted down the mountain without taking any sit down breaks. The leaders that were with him were very proud of this first time scout and how well he did on this challenging trek.

We all assembled at Neels Gap and rested while we reshuffled the cars around the mountain and then proceeded to Blue Ridge and Papas Pizza Buffet to experience an eating frenzy which included Chocolate and Cherry Pizza!

We made it back to the church around 4:45 pm in time to do a few chores around the house before the weekend was up

Great weather (Considering), Great fellowship, Great scouting

Scoutmaster Corbett

Scouters Winter Campout (SWC) 2006

2006-01-08T18:02:00.000-05:00

Back Row: Eric Flamm, Tim Holahan, Ted Scherck, John Hall, Brian Wright, Don Gantt, Taylor Hall, James Long, Paul Ullmann, Robert Orrand, Rick Aschenback
Front Row: Paul Fitzner, Rick Farber, Pete Corbett

Troop 772 Scouters, along with some scouting friends, participated in this year's Scouters Winter Campout (SWC). Intended to demonstrate that you can camp in the winter, Scouters organize into patrols and participate in games and activites, just like scout patrols in a troop. This year's theme was "Building Men, One Scout at a Time" and our patrols were the LeatherMan and Swiss Army patrols. The Swiss Army patrol came in first (among 37 patrols) in one of the games, and we earned the top award for campsite thanks to Mr. Gantt. As always, we ate well, from Mr. Orrand's cowboy breakfast to Mr. Gantt's venison burgers and Mr. Fitzner and Mr. Farbers hot fried catfish and Brunswick Stew. Mr. Hall and Mr. Aschenback made omelets in a bag on Sunday morning before the chapel service and closing ceremony.

The low temperature on Friday night was around 14 degrees; on Saturday, it probably was a bit warmer (but not much) - but the daytime weather was pleasant, and the skies were clear for astronomy on Saturday night.

Submitted by Eric Flamm

Cold Weekend on the Rocky Pinhoti and Odum Trails

2005-12-11T17:20:00.000-05:00

Submitted By Assistant Scoutmaster J. Hall

With Alex Smith serving as our Senior Patrol Leader and Ian and Brennen Graessle ready for their first serious backpacking trip, we headed for the High Falls trailhead on the Odum Trail in Alabama on a chilly Friday night, December 9.

For the first time I can remember, we drove straight to the trailhead (thank you Mapquest!) without taking a tour of several of the small towns and backroads in the vicinity. There was only one vehicle in the parking lot and it drove off shortly after we crawled into our tents so we had the campsite all to ourselves.

We just thought it was cold when we arrived Friday night. Saturday morning brought the realization that this was going to be a blue bead campout for sure. The thermometer in Mr. Ferrano’s SUV said it was 26 degrees but it sure felt closer to 20, and the slight breeze didn’t help much. We finished breakfast (ask me about Mr. Fitzner’s eggs in a bag meal), packed up, saddled up and hit the trail before 10:00 am. We climbed up the three sets of stairs at beautiful High Falls and headed out on the Odum Trail.

Our first landmark was the intersection with the Nubbin Creek Trail where we stopped for a quick rest, then we headed northeast for the junction with the Pinhoti Trail where we stopped for lunch. The temperature had risen to a nice level but we still had some wind to deal with.

I joked in 2001 when I first hiked these trails that Pinhoti was the local inhabitants’ word for “Bring all the extra rocks in Alabama and dump them here.” Neither the Pinhoti or Odum are particularly well-marked with consistent blazes. There are numerous sections that are 150-200 feet long where you walk on thousands of rocks the size of fully loaded backpacks and have no idea if you’re still on the trail or not. We persevered and made our way over to the connector trail that took us back onto the Odum Trail and down the ridgeline to the Nubbin Creek Trail. That “down the ridgeline” phrase was very significant since it got us below the wind and into the afternoon sun where the hiking was much more enjoyable.

We arrived at our campsite near Nubbin Creek around 3:30 in the afternoon and had plenty of time to relax, gather wood for a campfire, reflect on the 7.5 miles we had covered that day and begin making plans for dinner. Shortly after 4:00, a group of hikers from Gulf Shores, AL we had encountered walking in the opposite direction on the Pinhoti came strolling into our camp. They were coming down from Little Caney Head that we would hike over on our way out Sunday morning. They had hiked the loop in reverse that we were hiking and needed water and a place to stay for the night. We invited them to join us and told them where Nubbin Creek was located, but they decided to head farther along the trail to shorten their hike on Sunday.

We started the fire just before dark and I introduced the Graessle brothers to the miracle of fat wood as a fire starter. There was a huge pine top that had fallen into a large holly tree years ago and over time it had been seasoned into an enormous supply of nature’s best fire starter.

The Scouts chowed down on Ramen noodles with chicken breast and Mr. Ferrano prepared a delicious rice, chicken and mixed vegetables in a cream cheese sauce for the adults.

We enjoyed the fire until about 9:00 pm and the sleep monster overtook all of us and we headed for bed. It was a windy, clear night and we awoke to a chilly 30 degrees with about 10 mph steady wind Sunday morning. Quick breakfasts for all and it was on the trail by 9:30. Most of the early portion of the 3.5 miles we covered on Sunday was along the crest of Big Caney Head and Little Caney Head which exposed us to a pretty gusty, cold westerly wind. It felt good to finally lose elevation, walk in the sunshine and head toward High Falls again. We covered the 3.5 miles in a little over 2 hours.

The lead group of Scout hikers learned the value of not getting too far ahead of the rest of the group on Sunday. The rocky, “where’d the trail go?” nature of the Odum caused them to wander off the trail on a path that seemed to look okay. They stopped when they realized something was wrong (good move), and fortunately, the back group made the same error and we all ended up together. A little searching around and we re-established where the trail was and off we went. It’s always a good idea to be sure the group behind you is within eyesight so we have a safe hiking experience.

Good trip, good fellowship and a good experience for all of us. On to Blood Mountain in January!

12/3/2005 - Brian Corbett's Eagle Project

2005-12-03T12:45:00.000-05:00

300 Trees? 1300 Trees? Who's counting, anyway? For about 6 hours on a blustery Saturday morning, the troop cut, dragged, and chopped its way through an overgrown retention pond at Holy Family.

November 2005 - Caverns and Caving in NW Georgia

2005-11-13T23:54:00.000-05:00

Scouts: Brian Flamm, David Forman, Sam Francis, Peter McKenna, Alex Smith, Brennan Graessle, Ian Graessle, Jerremy Drennan, Alex Drennan, Peter Gill, & Rod Shirazi

Scouters: Paul Fitzner, Rick Farbar, Eric Flamm, John Hall, Tim Hollhan, Doug Wright, Brian Wright and Pete Corbett

Webelos: 5 Scouts and 4 Scouters from Pack 565

Mr. Wright had been wanting to take some of the older scouts (B Flamm, S Francis, A Smith, J Drennan, A Drennan & P Gill) caving in the Pigeon mountain region of NW GA for some time. The PLC put it on the calendar and Mr. Wright held several training meetings to prepare the scouts for the type gear they would need and what to expect. Mr. Wright's son Doug came to the event from Birmingham and assisted for the weekend. The Crew explored 2 Caves on Saturday and another Sunday Morning.

The rest of the Scouts spent time with Pack 565 who attended the campout during the day Saturday. We had intended to take them bouldering however hunting season was in full swing and they would not let us into the wildlife management area. Doug Wright suggested nearby Sequoyah Caverns for a day trip. We had the cave all to ourselves and enjoyed getting to know Pack 565 and helping them as the work through there transition from Cub Scouts to Boy Scouts. We had lunch at the caverns and then went back to the Campsite provided by Mr. Wright’s family farm. After an afternoon of relaxing the scouts kicked into gear and cooked great dinners for their guests. I seem to remember poached salmon as one of the main courses. The older scouts did not make it in till way past dark, cooked a late dinner and sacked out early.

In the morning we packed up early and while the younger scouts had the chance to go bouldering as the WMA opened back up the older scouts did one more cave. We met up for a Scouts own service help by Peter McKenna.

Great weather, Great fellowship, Great scouting.

Scoutmaster Corbett


The Roadkill Patrol and our Webelos guests visited the spectacular Sequoyah Caverns and Rocktown (on Pigeon Mountain)...

while the cavers visited 3 caves (Howards, Hurricane, and Pettijohns) and collected souvenirs (dirt, more dirt, etc.) at each one!

Please welcome the new pastor at John Knox

2005-10-25T17:42:00.000-04:00

I met with Pastor Fritz Bogar at John Knox this morning. He's very supportive of the Scouting program and looks forward to working with us as he settles in to his new position.

Eric

Check out our new troop calendar!

2005-10-25T13:12:00.000-04:00

Visit http://www.localendar.com/public/troop772 or click the link on our web site http://www.troop-772.org.

It's cool, and it's free!

Eric

October 2005 - Foothills District Camporall - Woodruff Scout Reservation

2005-10-23T23:47:00.000-04:00

Scouts: Martin Kaido, Rod Shirazi, Brian Flamm, Alex Pirtle, David Forman, Sam Francis, Peter McKenna, Alex Smith, Brennan Graessle, Ian Graessle, and Kenny Busey
Scouters: Paul Fitzner, Rick Farber, Eric Flamm, John Hall, Steve Busey, Dave McKenna, Tim Holahan, Robert Orrand and Pete Corbett

Our main goal in going to the Fall Camporee other than a good time was to put on a game that could be enjoyed by all the Webelo scouts attending. Our intent was to be seen and to tell the scouts who Troop 772 was and what we were all about, so they could keep us in mind when crossing over to Boy Scouts in the Spring.

The Troop put on a Lewis and Clark Relay game where we taught the Scouts how we were preparing for our trip to Canada next summer and the game was a relay race to full a simulated Duluth Pack with simulated gear (sand bags) and they had to get the heavy bag across the finish line. The fastest patrol won.

The Troop received lots of praise for the game and how our scouts presented themselves. After the camp wide campfire the troop hosted a cracker-barrel and some of the Webelos leaders stopped by to partake and learn more about us while view a slide show on a laptop.

It is always enjoyable to be a part of Council events and this one had a real purpose as we need some Webelos and their leaders to join us next spring.

Great weather, Great fellowship, Great scouting.

Scoutmaster Corbett

September 2005 - Bartram Trail Backpacking

2005-09-25T23:42:00.000-04:00

Scouts Martin Kaido and Rod Shirazi went backpacking on the Bartram Trail near Clayton, GA in September. Mr. Corbett, Mr. Farber, and Mr. Ferrano accompanied them. Brian Flamm and Mr. Flamm day-hiked with the group up to the campsite then back to the trailhead.

Labor Day 10K - Community Service

2005-09-05T21:45:00.000-04:00

The following members of Troop 772 participated in the US 10K:
Martin Kaido - our SPL - ran in the race - I think his time was 1 hour, 7 minutes or so

At Mile Marker 5 - Eric Flamm, Troop Committee Chair, was the split time caller (and instant pace calculator, if anyone asked)

At the Water Station at Mile Marker 5, we had:
Scouts: Brian Flamm, Sam Francis, Kenny Busey, Ian Graessle, Brennen Graessle
Friends: Luis Esteva
Family: Jill Flamm, Michelle Flamm, Judy Francis, Steve Busey, Mary Kaido

By the way, the leftover water and cups went to the Walton HS Marching Band
- so there's another youth organization that benefitted from our participation!

Submitted by: Eric Flamm

8/27/2005 - Lake Allatoona Campout and Canoe Training

2005-08-27T23:39:00.000-04:00

Scouts: Martin Kaido, Brian Corbett, Sam Gantt, Pete McKenna, Kenny Busey, Brian Flamm, Rod Shirazi, David Forman, Alex Pirtle, and Kyle Corbett
Scouters: Rick Farber, Steven Farber, David McKenna, Steve Busey, Eric Flamm, Ted Scherck and Pete Corbett

The Troop has on the calendar for the summer of 2006 to take our 50 miler trip to the Quetico Provincial Park of Canada. In preparation we have planned several weekend trip around canoe preparations and this weekend's trip was the first.

We reserved a campsite at the tip of the Allatoona Aquatics Base right on the water and the bugs were non existent! The camp was hosting a big regatta day on Saturday. The leaders-in- charge Rick Farber and son Steven started us out in the afternoon when all the regatta activities were over. We did a quick swim check and then we got the boats in the water for some basic canoe training. Steven did a great job as all made it back to shore safely regardless of the high seas on the lake from all the weekend boat traffic.

Our camp dinner for all provided by Mr. Farbar was an old fashion weenie roast and a big can of baked beans. Nobody went hungry.

We enjoyed the evening before bed watching the boat traffic at night. The evening was very warm at first and rain flies were a no no if you wanted to stay a little cool.

Sunday we all got on the water and Mr. Scherck (next summers trip leader) joined us for the day to see if anyone could keep a canoe going straight in the water. After about an hour on the water all were making their way through the water without much trouble, and before we made it back to shore it was clear we would need some more work but we had a great start to our training.

Great weather, Great fellowship, Great scouting.

Scoutmaster Corbett

Troop 772 Scout Attends National Jamboree

2005-08-03T23:25:00.000-04:00

Scout Brian Flamm, shown here with his father (left) and uncle (also an Eagle Scout) attended the National Jamboree at Fort A. P. Hill in Caroline County, VA (south of Washington D.C.). The Atlanta Area Council contingent comprised 6 jamboree troops of 36 scouts (4 patrols of 8 and 4 youth leaders) and 4 adults. Brian served as patrol leader for the Falcon patrol in Troop 1913 (Scoutmaster Kevin Link). Preparation for the jamboree included 2 campouts and monthly meetings; one of the many highlights was the President's address at the Closing ceremony. The Atlanta contingent was sponsored by Chick-Fil-A - the Chick-Fil-A theme was visible in the scout t-shirts, patches, and the camp area gateways.

7/9-16/2005 - 50-miler in Mt. Rogers (VA) Wilderness

2005-07-17T22:57:00.000-04:00

From July 9 through July 16, scouts Peter Gill, Alex and Jeremy Drennan, and Peter McKenna, accompanied by scouters Brian Wright, Paul Fitzner, Rick Farber, Tim Holahan, and Robert Orrand, hiked 53 miles along the Appalachian and Virginia Creeper Trails north of Damascus Virginia. They completed a service project in the Damascus area thereby qualifying for the BSA 50-miler award. They also found time for a (downhill) bike ride before heading home!

June 2005 - Philmont Crews

2005-06-30T01:56:00.000-04:00

Scouts and scouters from Troop 772 participated in several Philmont crews this summer. These photos are from Mr. Corbett's crew. Troop 772 scouts pictured are Miles Gantt, Nick and Cameron Jensen, Max Francis, and Brian Corbett.

Troop 772 at Woodruff Summer Camp

2005-06-20T22:09:00.000-04:00

Troop 772 at Woodruff Summer Camp:
Back Row: Jeremy Drennan, Brian Flamm, Don Gantt, Sam Francis, Alex Drennan, Ian Graessle;

Front Row: Sam Gantt, Peter McKenna, David Forman, Brennen Graessle, Alex Pirtle

Woodruff 2005

Scouters: Don Gantt, Greta Gantt, Steve Busey, Eric Flamm

Drivers: (Sunday 6/12) - Pete Corbett, Don Gantt, Greta Gantt, Steve Busey and Judy Francis. Saturday 6/18 – Don Gantt, Greta Gantt, Steve Busey, Eric Flamm’s Car and Dan Forman.

- We had Campsite #13, great campsite…nice and cool.
- We scored 98 on the week long camp inspection!
- Mountain Man – 3 scouts & 3 merit badges each
- Four second year scouts rec’d 6 to 7 merit badges each
- U-zone – 4 scout & 1 merit badge each
- Kenny Busey rec’d 4 merit badges and received chaplain training
- Our troop has a total of 43 merit badges for the week
- We received the Honor Patrol.
- We received the Ranger Award
- Don Gantt received the Scout Master Merit Badge.
- Don Gantt won the SM Archery tournament. (scored 269 point out of 300)
- The 6:00am Polar bear swim was completed by Eric Flamm
- All the Scouts went fishing daily – Kenny Busey received the fishing merit Badge by cleaning, cooking, and eating a fish.
- We had Dutch oven apple cobbler and banana bread several nights.
- Eric & Jill Flamm went down the river with the first year scouts, Eric injured his knee.
- We had a great time!

This is our most favored trip of the year for the first year scouts. The boys start each day by meeting at the assembly area around 8:00am and they stay very busy all day…lights out by 10:00pm.

Great weather, Great fellowship, Great scouting.

Don Gantt

5/31/2005 - Trigg Ferrano Eagle Scout Court of Honor

2005-05-31T01:16:00.000-04:00

Eagle Scout Trigg Ferrano receives the Eagle Charge from his brother, Eagle Scout Neal Ferrano.

5/21/2005 - Troop Court of Honor at Lake Allatoona

2005-05-21T22:49:00.000-04:00

We held our annual spring Court of Honor and Family Cookout at Lake Allatoona aquatics camp. We had an enjoyable lunch featuring scouts cooking at the grill followed by a short awards ceremony. Then we headed down to the lake to canoe around the cove and back.

4/26/2005 - Everett and Emery Smith Eagle Court of Honor

2005-04-26T01:01:00.000-04:00

4 Eagle Scouts:
Baker Smith with sons Everett, Ellis, and Emery

4/22/2005 - Spring Camporee at Jamison (Bert Adams)

2005-04-23T00:48:00.000-04:00

	Martin, Brian, Ram, Ian, Brennen, Peter
Scouts: Brian Corbett, Kenny Busey, Brian Flamm, Alex Smith, Ram Vedagiri, Brennen Graessle, Ian Graessle, Pete McKenna, and Martin Kaido Scouters: John Hall, Paul Fitzner, Steve Busey, Eric Flamm, and Pete Corbett The Spring Camporee at Bert Adams this year was sponsored by the Kenesaw Chapter of the Order of the Arrow. We arrived Friday evening and set up camp in the woods. Martin Kaido organized the scouts to build a great entrance by lashing several poles together and attaching our flags to the entrance. It looked great. The dining flys went up, food was put away and all were in bed in preparation for a busy day on Saturday. Saturday breakfast was pancakes and the scouts actually cooked them all the way! Clean up was completed with minor moaning and groaning and we went to assembly in preparation for the day. The OA had 5 team building and skills training games set up that keep the scouts busy most of the day. At the Saturday evening campfire, the OA "tapped out" its new members, including Brian Flamm and Mr. Fitzner. Brian Corbett donned Indian regalia to assist with the ceremony. The evening activities included an outdoor movie with popcorn. Sunday morning the OA performed a worship service at the edge of the lake. All in all a great council event. Great weather, Great fellowship, Great scouting. Scoutmaster Corbett
	Brian Corbett (Indian dress) escorts Brian Flamm during OA Callout ceremony.
I shot these photos with my camcorder, using the night shot feature for the OA ceremony - a very different effect! (EF)

4/9/2005 - SHOOTOUT!

2005-04-11T00:30:00.000-04:00

Scouts: Peter McKenna, David Forman, Brennen Graessle, Ian Graessle, Jeremy Drennan, Alex Drennan, Brian Flamm, Ram Vedagiri, Alex Smith, Peter Gill, Brian Corbett, Everett Smith, Emery Smith, and Martin Kaido
Scouters: Rick Farber, Eric Flamm, Dan Forman, Don Gantt, Dave McKenna, Ed O'Brien, Sean O'Brien, Taylor Hall, James Long, Tim Holahan, Ellis Smith and Pete Corbett

To say this is our most favored trip of the year is an understatement. We have consistently had a great turn out of scouts and scouters. This year we needed to get 6 scouts qualified for Shotgun and Shooting Merit badges. We would not be able to achieve this feat if it were not for the use of the Gantt farm and the continued support of past troop scouters Ed and Sean O'Brien who help us run the event for the weekend.

We typically blast away more than 2200 rounds of shotgun ammunition and untold numbers of 22 shells for the weekend. At all times keeping safety our number one priority. If my memory serves me correctly all 6 scouts qualified on shotgun and two qualified on 22. This would not have happened if each one of those scouts did not diligently keep at it the entire weekend, and all of them had the bruises on their shoulders from the gun butts to prove it. The remainder of the scouts honed their shooting skills to unbelievable. Not many if any clay pigeons got past the older scouts Saturday afternoon and especially Sunday morning

The Scouts and Scouters always eat very well on this trip. The Golden Eagles, Roadkill and Silver Foxes impressed all the leaders with their skills of outdoor meal planning and cooking.

This year the heat stayed at bay but the whippoorwill keep us company from sundown to sunup! Sunday morning we blasted away some more, cleaned up the field of all the clay pigeons and shells, had a nice worship service and made it back to the ATL before mid afternoon.

Great weather, Great fellowship, Great scouting.

Scoutmaster Corbett

	Mr. O'Brien explains the structure of a shotgun shell to an interested audience.
	All quiet on the range during the safety briefing

3/22/2005 - Scoutmaster Corbett Completes Wood Badge Requirements

2005-03-22T01:04:00.000-05:00

Mr. Corbett received his Wood Badge recognition from his Wood Badge Scoutmaster. The Wood Badge award includes the Neckerchief, "Woggle" (the slide), the leather thong with 2 wooden beads, and the plaque. Wood Badge typically takes about 2 years to complete, since it involves ongoing service to Scouting and the community.

3/18/2005 - Springer Mt to Three Forks on the AT in GA

2005-03-20T00:29:00.000-05:00

Scouts: Brian Corbett
Scouters: Paul Fitzner, Rick Farber, John Hall, Robert Orrand and Pete Corbett

Mr Fitzner had advised us that the trail might be a little crowded as the start of the “Through Hiker” season for the AT was in high gear. He was right, however it provided lots of conversation with folks along the trail and hopes for their success if not to make it all the way to Maine but to enjoy the time they have while on the trail.

Mr. Orrand drove all the way from Mississippi to join us and it is always entertaining to hear him and Mr. Farber banter throughout the weekend. Mr Orrand, Mr Hall and Mr Farber and Mr Fitzner currently have no scouts in the troop yet they give of their time consistently and unselfishly to the program. We are very fortunate to have past leaders of our troop continued to return and spend their time to help build scouts into our future leaders.

Mr Fitzner made a great fish Stroganoff for dinner and we enjoyed a cool night under a bright moon which made the evening as bright as day.

Great weather, Great fellowship, Great scouting.

Scoutmaster Corbett

Campout Philmont Training Standing Indian Campground to Standing Indian Mt along the Kimsey Creek and Lower Ridge Trail on the AT in GA

2005-03-13T10:21:00.000-05:00

Scouts: Cameron Jensen, Nick Jensen, Max Francis, and Miles Gantt
Scouters: Chris Jensen, Pete Corbett, John Pelick and Terry Carpenter

Although this was not a Troop 772 outing it was attended in force by the crew preparing for their Philmont Trek. Our planned trek had an itinerary of over 80 miles , but with all the side hikes we were well over 100 miles for the week. This hike up the Standing Indian was an up however it did not hold a candle to the “UPS” and altitude in Philmont.

Mr. Pelick our “Leader in Charge” walked the scouts trough all the standard operating procedures for a trek at Philmont such as setting up the proper rain fly, to easily preparing one pot meals with as little fuel as possible, to thoroughly cleaning up and sanitizing our cooking utensils to avoid the dreaded trail virus!

Cameron our cook for the trek cooked us a great dinner of an actual Philmont meal that Mr. Pelick had ordered for us.

The evening was extremely windy on top of the mountain yet temperatures were mild.

The trip down was speedy so we enjoyed a hearty family style brunch at the Dillard House.

Great weather, Great fellowship, Great scouting.

Scoutmaster Corbett

2/28/2005 - Woody Gap to Gooch Gap Backpacking

2005-02-28T23:47:00.000-05:00

Rick Farber, Brian Corbett, Pete Corbett, Brian Flamm (photo credit: Eric Flamm)

Although we had a light turn out for this trip I must admit it was the most relaxing camping trip I can remember (at least for myself). Not to mention warm and dry weather!

Several of our 772 scouts including myself have been on training hikes in preparation for our planned trek to Philmont this summer. The protocol to get prepared for such a trip is consuming at best. Lots of details and concerns to prepare to make the trip not only a success but comfortable at the same time.

Our trip to Gooch Gap was just a great laid back time with seasoned scouts and scouters therefore no real pressure for a Scoutmaster. We had a bit of an up to get to our site , however past that the trail was like a city sidewalk. When we got to the camp site we quickly set up camp and our two scouts acted like old men and proceeded to take a long afternoon nap. I must admit I was jealous, however I was enjoying setting up my new tarp from Mr. Fitzner in a single man tent configuration and was admiring my work.

When the scouts awoke we went down to a great campsite we missed right at the edge of a babbling brook…oh well next time…and gathered water for dinner. The scouts made a great campfire which we enjoyed with Mr. Fitzner and his friend “Sarge” and two others just starting North on the 6 month odyssey to Maine.

In the morning the “Through Hikers” and Mr Fitzner got out of camp before we did and we followed after a simple but tasty breakfast. At Woody Gap we ran into a Venture Crew who just went up to Blood for the evening.

Great weather, Great fellowship, Great scouting.

Scoutmaster Corbett

Eric, Brian F, Rick, Pete, Brian C.

2/5/2005 - Vogel State Park/Blood Mountain Backpacking

2005-02-05T23:28:00.000-05:00

Taylor Hall, Paul Fitzner, Jeremy Drennan, Martin Kaido, Peter McKenna, Nick Jensen, Brian Wright, Alex Smith, Rick Farber, Dave McKenna, Pete Corbett, John Hall (photo credit: Eric Flamm)

We took the Slaughter Creek Trail this year for our annual ascent coveted by the scouts each winter. We had a very comfortable lunch and made it to camp early Satuday. The scouts set up and took over the shelter and the leaders took the mile trip down the trail to fetch water for the evening where Mr. Wright tried out his new water purifier and Mr. Hall had some new fangled water tablets we tried out.

I watched Mr. Farber set up one of Mr. Fitzners new single wall tents and I remember worrying it may not make it through the night if we received heavy winds at times experienced in the winter. I must admit I was more worried I would feel guilty if I did not get out of my 0 degree bag to help Mr. Farber if I heard loud expletives in the late hours of the night.

Scouts and Scouters ate hearty meals and retired early, as far as I could tell but I was out like a light by 7PM.

We woke to a hard frost and a beautiful blue sky. Fixed a simple breakfast, had a very nice worship service by Chaplain's Aide Peter McKenna and worked our way down and actually ran into some slick ice and old snow along the way.

All in all a great first trip as Scoutmaster.

Great weather, Great fellowship, Great scouting.

Scoutmaster Corbett

Troop 772 Earns District Honor Roll (Chicken Pin) 2 Years in a Row

2005-02-04T02:00:00.000-05:00

2/4/2005-Foothills District Banquet

2005-02-04T00:57:00.000-05:00

Assistant Scoutmaster Don Gantt receives the Medal of Merit from Cary Bradley, District Advancement Chairman. The award was presented by the Boy Scouts of America in recognition of Don's life-saving efforts during a critical situation in January 2004.

1/9/2005 - SWC 2005 - Woodruff

2005-01-09T23:18:00.000-05:00

From Left: Eric Flamm, Jeff Geter, James Long, Tim Holahan, Pete Corbett, Steve Busey, Don Gantt, Dave McKenna, Taylor Hall