BP> My son's Troop is going to the U.S.S Alabama in Feb.  I was able to use 
 BP> the message you sent me about it to really interest the boys and a 
 BP> number of the leaders.
We just found out that the only weekend in Feb. that is booked up is the one 
we had planned.  After we get through the Spring Camporee this weekend, we 
will have to see what can be done to reschedule.  Maybe the easiest thing 
will be to swap it and the January campout.
 BP> If I understood you correctly, there is a lot to keep the boys (and 
 BP> leaders) interest on the grounds?
 DB> Definitely.  You'll have to keep in mind that the gift shop, submarine 
 DB> and aircraft museum all close at 5 PM.  
Thanks for that info, it should make a difference for planning.
 DB> The battleship stays open all night for exploration - 
I'm not sure if that is a good thing or not. :-)
 DB> just make sure all the boys have flashlights.
Most have more than one, believe me.
 DB> If you arrive late Saturday, you should plan time Sunday 
 DB> morning for exploration after the museum fully opens.
Because of our drive time, I don't see how we can leave very late on Sunday.
 DB> We left home at 11 AM Saturday, ate lunch at a Roadside Park at about 
 DB> 1:30 PM and arrived at about 2:30 PM.  We cooked fish and burgers for 
 DB> dinner at the picnic area.  Sunday morning, we let the boys ride the 
 DB> Flight Simulator and went to a Shoney's in Spanish Fort for breakfast 
 DB> (only $110 for 20 boys and leaders).
We figure at least an 8 to 9 hour drive, depending on the number of rest 
stops.  Everyone seems to be leaning toward a lunch like you had.  That would 
save time and money.  Shoney's breakfast bar and beverage for $5.50 each?  
They must have cut you a deal, or prices are a bit cheaper there.
 DB> We are planning a return trip there or to the U.S.S. Kidd in Baton Rouge 
 DB> in a next month.
Sounds like fun.
 BP> Care for a Troop 74 Scouting coffee mug, or some popcorn?  We are 
 BP> planning to go to Sea Base in about a year and a half, so some serious 
 BP> fundraising is about to start up.
 DB> How much for the mug?  What does it look like?
I only saw one for a moment last week when the box came in, but as I remember 
the mug is white, has the Scout Logo, TROOP 74, Madison, TN., on one side and 
says I love (a red heart, not the word love) Scouting on the back side.  
After this weekend, we should get them out and I'll send you another message 
if it turns out my memory was faulty.
Thanks again for the info.
Brien
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