By Mark Mangels

People who know me very well noticed that I have been serving as part time volunteer staff at H. Roe Bartle Scout Reservation the last couple of years. I just got back from 2nd session this week. They often are curious about what it is like and why do I do it. They see it as a place that is dusty, rocky, windy, rainy, sweaty, insect and animal infested and hot. I see it as a place of scouting history, shade everywhere, full of learning, a place to teach, make new friends, rekindle old friendships, reflect and meditate with 3 square meals and canvass over my head. I love my reservation. It really is a place of strong medicine and especially a chance for me to help scouts and scouters. Nights are like going to an art museum where you see the Sun set and stand in awe at the night sky blanketed with stars. I can go to sleep listening to a choir of critters. I can wake up to the Sun rising in the East. Yes, I am very busy working all day, but if you enjoy it, it’s not really work. Most of all, I can think. And think. And think. Time spent with the Great Spirit goes a long way in our busy lives back in the big city. Time goes by quickly. Each year Troop 282 sends several scouts to Bartle as full time staff and volunteer part time staff. If one session of camping is not enough each summer? Consider applying for CAMP STAFF.