Re: [Philmont]: electronics?

Here are my opinions:

Walkie-Talkies -- Great for crew entertainment. For example, a
Walkie-Talkie dropped in a deep Philmont latrine sometimes produces an
echo. Two Walkie-Talkies dropped a couple of seconds apart may produce
the "plop, plop, fizz, fizz" sound of a couple of Alka Seltzer tablets. A
Walkie-Talkie dropped in a trail camp "Pilot to Copilot" or "Pilot to
Bombardier" makes very little sound. Seriously, your Ranger will probably
recommend that you leave the Walkie-Talkies at CHQ.

Radios, CD-Players, MP3 Players, etc. -- Okay for the trip to/from
Philmont but best left in the CHQ crew locker or in a vehicle upon
arrival, and this is what your Ranger will recommend too.

Cell Phones -- We beat this one to death a couple of years back. At that
time, I was against taking them into the back country. After hearing how
useful one was in contacting CHQ during a backcountry emergency, I've
changed my mind. Remember that reception is somewhat spotty and that you
probably won't be able to get a signal most of the time. Also remember
that a cell phone isn't a substitute for using good judgment and common
sense while hiking in the backcountry.

GPS -- Like a compass, a tool that may be useful at Philmont, especially
when hiking in the Valle Vidal.

YiS,

--
Calvin H. Gray
Scoutmaster, Troop 405
Associate Advisor, Venturing Crew 405
Georgetown, Texas
I used to be an Owl (WM-62-2-98 @ Philmont)
http://www.troop405.org/
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