Probably the MOST IMPORTANT piece of equipment you'll ever have is your Boy Scout Handbook. It should be the first thing you pick up! In it you'll find answers to questions like how to camp, how a troop runs, and how to advance in rank.

It will also give you an idea of what other equipment you need to go camping with us. We've already mentioned the Scout uniform and pages 51 - 53 in your Handbook lists other items you may need. Here are just a few points to consider, however.

• You won't need a personal tent as the troop provides them for you. You are expected, however, to treat them with care as you would your own gear.
• Don't bother buying personal mess kits and eating gear. The troop furnishes all that as well as camp cooking utensils. You do, however, need to have a PERSONAL DRINKING CUP -- one that can be easily carried with you during those warm summer days.
• You don't need to go out and buy real expensive hiking boots. Just good walking shoes or sneakers will work just fine.
• You will need a good sleeping bag. It doesn't have to be expensive, but we do camp in the cold sometimes and you'll want to stay warm. A medium weight sleeping bag can be used year round and by stuffing a quilt or heavy blanket inside, you can use it during the winter too.
• Obviously you'll need some way to carry everything to and from camp, but an elaborate backpack won't be needed for some time, if ever. About the first two years of your camping with us will not usually involve a lot of backpacking. A soft-sided equipment bag or army "duffel" bag clearly marked with your name will be just fine.
• As you know, Oklahoma weather can change quite suddenly. It is a good idea to ALWAYS pack some rain gear.

Most of your official scouting uniform parts can be picked up at the Last Frontier Council's Scout Trading Post located one block west of May Avenue on Northwest 64th Street. Other scouting items like a sleeping bag, compass, etc., can be picked up at department stores, sporting goods stores, yard sales, etc.

By the way, throughout the years a number of scouts have (literally) grown UP with us and have donated their outgrown uniforms to the troop. Check and see if we have uniform parts in your size. It may save some money (remember Š A Scout is thrifty). And as you grow, it would show good Scout Spirit to donate your usable uniforms to the troop.

Scouts go outdoors to do outdoor stuff. That means when you go on outings, LEAVE BEHIND electronic games, radios, and anything else that might not reflect the scouting spirit. Also leave behind candy and junk food. Not only does this stuff create a mess, in tents and personal gear, but there have been scouts awakened at night by raccoons and other varmints tearing into equipment looking for food.

About that pocket knife you've been itching to use bring it along but until you've been officially trained, you will not be allowed to use it. Read page 76 in your Scout Handbook about the "Totin'Chip."