RE: [Philmont]: electronics?

> From: seawolf1956@cox.net
> I am adamantly opposed to *any* electronic devices on the
> trail, and I don't
> know of any our adult leaders who feel differently, including
> GPS's. It
> detracts from the outdoor experience, but more importantly, there is
> absolutely no need for any of this stuff at Philmont. The
> rationale for 2-way
> radios is a non-issue; if you are following Philmont
> guidelines, you should
> never encounter a situation on the trail in which the crew is
> separated.
>
I have to take strong issue with this. I absolutely would refuse
to be banned from bringing my digital camera. I find it *very*
difficult to believe that Brad can find any of his adult leaders
who are opposed to bringing cameras that have batteries in them.
I'd even be willing to bet Brad violates his own stated rule in
this regard :-).

A GPS may not be necessary at Philmont, but if you have a Venturing
Crew and some of them are working on Ranger, one of the requirements,
land navigation, wants you to use the GPS. Therefore, I have a
real problem with a ban on a GPS. I also have a great deal of trouble
computing the idea of a land navigation tool, that only works outdoors
anyway, "detracting from the outdoor experience." It is the
quintessential outdoor experience. The anti-GPS feelings I occasionally
see may have justification under the "unnecessary" argument, but the
detract from the outdoors claim is pure nonsense. Ban all technology then,
camp over a fire, use sticks to hold your food, get rid of that
high tech device called a compass, not to mention cameras, trekking
poles and tents and clothes made out of synthetic material. I have
to say that Brad's position is inherently contradictory.

Also, the rationale for 2-way radios is valid within the rules at
Philmont, though not for getting separated on the trail. Rather,
a portion of your group may go on a side hike while another portion
may stay in camp. Being able to communicate for coordinating
either group activities or crew tasks could be handy. I wouldn't
say the utility is worth it, but there you have one justification.

Regards
Don Roberts
ASM T1201, CA C1202
Fullerton, CA
Philtrek 05 808-118

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Received on Wed May 5 13:31:19 2004