I recall whittlin' a Pinewood Derby (tm) car as a Cub Scout in the later part of the '60s, but I don't recall a "chit." However, there probably was a Cub Scout-level chit, as I do recall the Boy Scout's "Totin' Chit" card, and the tradition of leaders removing corners for transgressions of the knife rules. <img src="/images/graemlins/crazy.gif" alt="" />

We weren't allowed to use (camp) stoves. Now, stove use is generally mandated in order to "leave no trace," at an unfortunate loss of fire making skills. Arguments over local vs. global impact of stoves are probably best expressed over on Campfire. Humm..., ironic name....

I give the BSA much credit, however, for standing up to a noisy minority in this country. BSA tries very hard to teach, and act consistently with, a system of values that includes (back to topic) the novel concept that (survival) tools, including self-reliance and a knife, are not inherently evil.

There is much flexibility in the methods and program delivered from one set of leaders to another. I find the occasional outbursts of Scouting within these forums enjoyable and useful.

WWW,

/Neal

I used to be a bear....