The Boys Hone their Skills in Anticipation of Camporee  2008/04/05

"Be prepared. That's the Boy Scout motto and today that's just what (23) Troop 1201 scouts did; they became more prepared for Camporee next weekend. They also braved temperatures nearing 100-degrees. Citizenship, Menu Planning, Knots, Patrol Method, Skits, Map & Compass, Fire Building, Height & Distance, Pioneering, First Aid, Team Building, and the Kim's Game. Keep practicing scouts and be sure you're prepared. Good luck to all of you! " Scoutmaster Cliff.

Photos:   Index   Slideshow

Troop 1201's Award-Winning Leaders are Recognized at the District Awards Dinner

Photos from the Los Amigos District Awards held tonight. Several Scouters from Troop 1201 were recognized for their contributions: Cliff van Ahlers - Scoutmaster of the Year; David Ahia - Webelos Den Leader of the Year (Pack 234); Scott Allen - Extra Mile Award; Brent Cannon - Extra Mile Award; Rachel Cornejo - Extra Mile Award; Lori Martinez - Extra Mile Award; and Brian Wood - Extra Mile Award. Don Roberts was also recognized for his efforts as District Advancement Chair and his recent Silver Beaver Award. -- R. Rasmussen, ASM.  3/27/2008

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Troop 1201 Prepares for the Weeklong Canoe Trip  2008/03/08

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Troop 1201 holds Rummage Sale to benefit our Chartering Organization

"One man's junk is another man's treasure!  Today's rummage sale was a great success raising nearly $600 for our charter organization.  In the spirit of cheerful service, our scouts and adult leaders worked together to raise needed money for the Church's Legacy Campaign.  Thanks to everyone for their involvement in the preparation and execution of this event."  -- Scoutmaster Cliff  2008.03.08

Photos:   Index    Slideshow

Troop 1201 heads to the Slopes for some Winter Fun 2008/02/23

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Troop 1201 Welcomes Justin as he Bridges from Pack 883

We were happy to receive Brian's younger brother Justin as he bridges into Boy scouting from Pack 883.  2008/02/22

Youth Leadership Training

"Trained leadership is important.  Together, SPL Matt H. and Scoutmaster Cliff put on Troop 1201's Youth Leadership Training (YLT) course.  The course covered troop operation and the expectations placed upon our youth leaders.  Each position of responsibility was covered with specific examples of the right and wrong way to do the jobs.  Interactive team building games were included in the curriculum.  Of course, pizza was a highlight along with a birthday celebration for William C."   – Scoutmaster Cliff

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Troop 1201 Honors our Chartering Organization on Scout Sunday 

"Today Troop 1201 celebrated Scout Sunday and our 89-year relationship with the First Presbyterian Church of Fullerton.  Forty-four scouts attended along with seventeen uniformed adult leaders.  Special thanks goes to Cameron R. who did a terrific job with the Scripture readings.  Our scout speakers:  Grant R., Cody  W., Patric E., John v., and Parker A.  And to our flag bearers:  Cody W., Colby H., Parker A. and Michael A.  A great display of scouting history along with refreshments awaited the congregation between services.  Thanks to all those that helped to make this a very memorable event."  -- Scoutmaster Cliff.   2008.02.17

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Troop 1201 welcomes Three New Boy Scouts from Pack 1216  2008/02/13

Troop 1201 is happy to welcome Alex M,  Austin R,  and Wyatt S, shown respectively, as they bridged from Cub Scouting into Troop 1201.  Please welcome them when you see them at our Troop meetings.

Troop 1201 visits Anza Borrego  2008/02/09

"A group of 22 scouts and 17 family members spend the Lincoln Birthday weekend in the Anza-Borrego Desert State Park. Fabulous desert weather with breath-taking scenery and sprouting wildflowers everywhere. The Troop hiked from the visitor center to the Borrego Palm oasis where we were greeted by several big-horned sheep (aka the Borrego) and a beautiful waterfall. The scouts tested their courage climbing the hillsides and enjoyed camping with the Troop. Could be a repeat adventure. "

  -- ASM S. Allen

"The first camp out of 2008 was a huge success as the troop ventured to Anza Borrego. The highlight of the weekend was the hike to the Palm Oasis. Along the five mile route we saw the Visitors Center, Big Horn Sheep, a Palm Oasis, waterfalls, a Mountain Lion track and lots of desert plants. In camp, we had scout skills, Badmitten, Bocce and of course great food. Warm weather and clear nights made for some great scenery. At sunset, out came the telescope and the boys had an opportunity to see the Moon, Saturn, Orion Nebula, Mars, Andromeda Galaxy, Sirius and many more heavenly objects. It was so much fun just hanging out together – thanks to all that attended." – Scoutmaster Cliff

Photos:   Index   Slideshow

Seal Beach National Wildlife Refuge Outing and Service Project 2008/01/26

We had a beautiful day with a majestic view of the local mountains covered with snow, as wide and as low as I have ever seen on them.  The Scouts were quite engaged with the docents during the nature walk and in the native plant garden, listened to the base C.O. during lunch, then performed two hours of service work picking up trash.  The Refuge Manager was extremely impressed with our group – he told me that we were the most efficient group he has ever had.  While many groups pick up a few pieces of trash then just play around, we filled up the bed of his pickup truck twice with trash bags.  They were all so pleased with us they gave us patches and coupons for a day of free entry into any National Park requiring admission [...] as well as pens carved into various types of marine life.  Our group did the troop proud! -- ASM Rett Rasmussen

Troop 1201 visits Magic Mountain  2008/01/20

"A contingent of about 20 Scouts and adults from Troop 1201 spent a great day at Six Flagg’s Magic  Mountain on Sunday, Jan. 20.  It was a perfect day to go – beautiful weather, no crowds at the park and no traffic on the way there.  The boys had the chance to ride whatever rides their hearts desired and often could ride them over and over without having to wait in line.  What more could you ask for at an amusement park?  It was several of the Scout’s first time to the park and they enjoyed testing out their courage on a number of the more thrilling rides.  Happy birthday to Nicky’s brother, Vladi.  We all enjoyed being a part of your birthday today!!"   – Carol van Ahlers

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Troop 1201's Venture Patrol Explores the Hollywood Sign and BatCaves  2008/01/20

The Venture Patrol made the most of our sunny California weather on Sunday the 20th and went on a hike to a couple of the local famous sites. The first stop was the Bronson Caves. This is best known as the Bat Cave entrance from the TV series, but they also filmed parts of "Bonanza," "Star Trek: Voyager," "Fantasy Island," "Little House on the Prairie," "The Lone Ranger," "Gunsmoke," "Wild Wild West," "The Scorpion King," "Star Trek VI: The Undiscovered Country," "Lost Horizon" and the original "Invasion of the Body Snatchers. After the caves, we continued the hike up to the HOLLYWOOD sign. We got right behind and above the sign and had a great view over the whole LA area. A reward for our effort was a stop at the original Tommy's Burger Shack. -- Steve Roth

Photos: Index  Slideshow  

Season's Greetings and Happy New Year 2008 from Troop 1201

Our last outing of the year…Troop 1201 visits the Science Discovery Center  2007/12/16

"Today, we finished up our 2007 program with a trip to the Discovery Science Center. There were space ships, rockets, geysers, earthquakes, hurricanes, flash floods, ginger bread houses, beds of nails, dinosaurs, virtual volleyball, design your own marble chase and on and on. With all that nobody starved thanks to Taco Bell and Pizza Hut. I'm very proud of the opportunities we've provided to our scouts in 2007. Looking back through the year in pictures, it's truly amazing. Thanks to all who made these outings possible! Looking forward to next year!" – Scoutmaster Cliff

Photos:  Index  Slideshow

Webelos Invitational Bike Ride from Anaheim Stadium to Huntington Beach  2007/12/15

"Troop 1201 headed down to the beach today on the Santa Ana River trail. Twenty-nine bikers, including some special Webelo guests, took the 12.5-mile ride from Anaheim Stadium to Huntington Beach. The group made it in record time, just over an hour. The weather was perfect and the BBQ lunch cooked over an open fire delicious. Thanks to everyone who helped to make today’s outing a great success." -– Scoutmaster Cliff

Photos:  Index    Slideshow

Skyline Hike 2007/12/08

“The stormy weather cleared up again for this weekend's Troop 1201 Skyline Trail Hike.  The event is sponsored by Troop 546 in Whittier.  Chartered busses took groups, including 25 from Troop 1201, to the top of Nike Hill above Rio Hondo college.  From there we walked along the ridge line between Whittier and La Puente.  The views were spectacular; at times the walk got pretty muddy but nobody seemed to mind.  Most of the group finished up at the 6-mile checkpoint, but several hardy hikers continued on and completed the entire 11-mile course.  A terrific day hike!"  – Scoutmaster Cliff

"The troop hiked a combined 157 miles (it would have been 162 if Paul B. had not twisted his knee on the first step).  [...]  I think it was awesome!   – ASM Rett R.

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Orienteering Outing to Craig Park

Troop 1201 holds an Orienteering Day at Craig Park to help the scouts complete their First Class Orienteering Requirements   12/02/2007

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Tree Planting  2007/12/01

“Troop 1201 helps to plant hundreds of trees at the new Orange County Outdoor Education Center.  The Center is located adjacent to Irvine Regional Park near parking lot 3.  After yesterday’s rainstorm it may come as a surprise that the weather was actually perfect for this event.  The ground was moist keeping the dust down and significantly helping our digging efforts.  We worked hard as our workgroup planted nearly 50-trees!  -- Scoutmaster Cliff”

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Troop 1201's Annual Visit to Joshua Tree 2007/11/16

“Troop 1201 invades Joshua Tree National Park for one terrific weekend!  Warm weather, sumptuous food, fellowship, great kids, and even a 50^th Birthday made for a very successful tailgate campout.  Scouts had a great time scrambling on rocks, practicing  their camping, cooking and orienteering skills.  By Saturday afternoon there were 46-people, (15-adults, 30-scouts, and 1-sibling), all enjoying themselves at Indian Cove group campsites 10, 11 and 12.  Thanks to everyone for a safe and enjoyable weekend.  Troop 1201 Rocks!  -- Scoutmaster Cliff”

(If you took pictures on this trip, please contact me at troop email below)

First Photos in:    Index    Slideshow

2007/11/03

"Troop 1201 tried something new last night and it was a great success. Irwindale Speedway! The evening may have been cool, but the racing was HOT! The highlight of the night was probably the one-hour figure eight race – these guys are CRAZY! The "train race" was probably the second most popular. There was a "Car Soccer" competition, demolition derby, two ½ mile oval races, a tug-of-war, a pickup dragster powered by a jet engine and more. I have a feeling we’ll be doing this again!" -- Scoutmaster Cliff.

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Troop 1201's Venture Patrol tries their hand at WindSurfing

With ASM Steve Roth as their instructor, the Venture patrol tried their hands out at an afternoon of WindSurfing.  2007/09/30

Troop 1201's Zach H. Presented with BSA Heroism Award at Fall Court of Honor  10/22/2007

The Heroism Award is given by the BSA for saving a life at minimal risk to self.  Fewer than 300 such medals are given every year.  On Sept 17, 2007, Sean H. had a serious asthma attack that stopped his breathing.  Zach, upon realizing the problem, calmly got his father medicated, had his mother call 911, and got emergency aid promptly to Sean.  This action saved the life of his father, Sean.  For the full write-up, click HERE.    Congratulations, Zach!

Intermediate Backpack to Devil's Canyon  10/20/2007

“Troop 1201 visited one of our favorite spots over the weekend, Devil’s Canyon, in the Angeles National Forest.  Red and Blue youth patrols along with the “old yeller” patrol ventured over 2000-feet down into the canyon.  The sycamore trees were turning shades of yellow.  The poison oak had taken on a deep red hue.  Our drought was clearly evident as the creek we camped by was running at barely a trickle.  The highlight was a three-way capture the flag game, in the dark, that lasted over an hour.  Of course, the “old yeller” patrol prevailed.  The wind started to blow in the afternoon and remained strong overnight.  This made for almost cold conditions on the hike out on Sunday.  This backpack was a great success!  – Scoutmaster Cliff”

Photos:   Index  Slideshow     More photos on Archive site:  <http://troop1201.dyndns.org>

Troop 1201 Makes an attempt to reach White Mountain Peak  10/13/2007

White Mountain Peak (elevation 14,252) compares closely with Mt Whitney (elevation 14,505) and was chosen to test the Kilimanjaro crew at altitude. Unfortunately the timing wasn't quite right and not enough round-trip time was available to reach the summit; nonetheless, the boys had an enjoyable and scenic weekend from the trip.

Photos:   Index    Slideshow     (see also Troop photo archive: )

Camporall:  Troop 1201 Aids in First Aid and Flag Ceremony Instruction 10/5/2007

We had great weather and good time at Camporall. There was a great demonstration of "Be Prepared" when at 7:45 they asked us to do the 8:00 Opening Flag Ceremony, well done guys. This year 1201 ran two events, First Aid and how to conduct a Flag Ceremony. In the morning our Boy Scouts taught the Webelos how to perform the task, and after lunch the Webelos were tested. Ted and I received many complements about the 1201 scouts as we promoted the troop by handing out Beach Bike Ride fliers, made by Carol, and answering questions. Thanks to all the adults and scouts that made this a successful recruiting event. Brian Wood, ASM

Photos courtesy of Wood:   Index   Slideshow

Troop 1201 Spends a Night aboard the USS Midway  9/29/2007

Troop 1201 boarded the Amtrak Train in Fullerton for a ride down to San Diego to spend a Night and Day aboard the USS Midway.  From what I have heard, the boys couldn't stop talking about it.

Photos courtesy of Asst Scoutmaster S. Allen:    Index    Slideshow

Troop 1201 Contributes to the Coastal Cleanup Campaign in Brea  2007/09/16

There were 15 scouts and 7 adults that attended the Coastal Cleanup Service project in Brea.  They didn't get as dirty as those that attended the Mud Run last weekend.  Thanks to Mr. Wood for taking these photos.

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The Color of FUN is BROWN - LA County Sheriff's Annual MUD-Run 9/9/2007

Today, (9/09), the Los Angeles County Sheriff Special Enforcement Bureau held their annual Mud Run and it was a perfect day to get a little muddy. Hundreds participated in the event including eight Troop 1201 scouts. A five mile course (or was it 5K that felt like 5-miles?) with twelve muddy pits that had to be navigated proved to be a lot of fun. A terrific effort by Mr. Simpson who took 2nd place in the over 40 category! Our boys and four adult leaders were coated in mud to show their spirit in support of this event. -- Scoutmaster Cliff

Great Photos! :   Index   Slideshow

Troop 1201's End-of-Summer Picnic was a good time to Relax and Socialize

   Pictures from the Troop Picnic:   Index    Slideshow

Troop 1201's Venture Patrol takes to One of the Seven Seas  8/25/07

The Venture patrol headed out into the Pacific Ocean in a sailboat this weekend.  Weather was perfect and a good time was had by all.

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Troop1201 Enters Nosebleed Country to Sit Atop Mt Whitney 8/11-19/2007     

It could not have been Better!  Great weather, gorgeous scenery, star-gazing (new moon), meteor showers, wildlife, hiking, camping, fishing, swimming, cooking, rock climbing, stone skipping, first aid practice, photo ops, card games, story telling, and just plain sitting under a rock and reading a book.  Ask the boys about their "Sierra Bucket Mousetrap".  Our photographers took 1151 pictures of 9 boys & 6 adults (compared to summer camp with  752 pictures of 40+ boys & 6 adults).  What follows is my favorite 4-dozen photos.  See our troop archive for the entire set.   -- J. Wunderlich

Photos:  Index     Slideshow    

Troop 1201 Sends its Ambassadors to the World Jamboree in England  7/28/07-8/11/07

Four scouts from troop 1201 Flew to England at the end of July to attend the World Scout Jamboree. Of these New Eagle scout Zack S, Life Scout Eric P, and Eagle Scout Daniel R. went with Venturing Crew 431 made up of Scouts of all the Western Region,. while Teddy R. went with an Orange County Council Jamboree Scout Troop. While at Jamboree the scouts had the opportunity to meet scouts from over 150 different countries, and Celebrate the 100th anniversary of world Scouting. Daniel even got to meet Prince William! Opportunity was a theme along with one world one promise where 40,000 scouts made friends from all corners of the globe. -- Daniel R

Slideshow:   Index   Photos      See the complete set of pictures at the Troop1201 Photo archive.

Two-Day Mt San Gorgonio backpack

In preparation for the upcoming Mt Whitney week-long Summer Sierra Hike, the boys tackle the biggest hill available in So. California, visiting the Summit at 11,499 feet from a starting elevation of 6040 feet.

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Camp Whitsett.  In only one week they did it all!  2007/07/15-20

All I can say is "Wow!".  In just one week there were Horses, Fishing, Climbing, Eating, Tug-of-Wars, Branding, Axe Tossing, Game Playing, Ice Cream Making, Swimming, Hiking, Rifles, Archery, Fancy Hats, Campfires, Snakes, Lizards, not to mention some of the best pictures this Webmaster has seen for a while.  Picking the best two dozen ended up with four dozen.  Enjoy the following slideshow.  Give me a few days to get the whole set of photos on the Troop archive at .  -- T1201 Webmaster

Photos:   Index   Slideshow

Photos:   Index    Slideshow

TrailBlazers   6/22 thru 6/28/2007

They were filthy dirty, dog tired and very ready to return to civilization. They were four of the happiest scouts I've seen with huge smiles on their faces as they recounted their experiences over the past week at Trailblazers. Trailblazers is a National Youth Leadership Training (NYLT) course held once a year by the OC Council. It is held at Shoepe Scout Reservation at Lost Valley. Please join me in congratulating Evan J., Matthew L., Mike v. and Brady W. on their outstanding accomplishment. Scoutmaster Cliff

Troop 1201 supports Fullerton's Relay For Life June 22-23, 2007

More Photos:   Index    Slideshow

Hike to Mt Baden Powell - Father's Day, June 17th

On Father s day, 2007, Troop 1201 successfully conquered the summit of Mt. Baden Powell (Elevation 9399 ). The peak is located high in the San Gabriel Mountains along the Pacific Crest Trail. Everything went according to plan as the backpacking group met the day hiking group on the summit precisely at 1pm. After a quick lunch and troop photo on the summit monument, both groups headed down to Vincent Gap at 2pm. Hats off to the hard working Troop 1201 scouts and the high adventure team for pulling off this fantastic outing. Scoutmaster Cliff  (Click Photo for bigger version).

Photos are now in:  Index    Slideshow   (see also the T1201 Photo Archive site for complete photos)

Canoe Service Project

Troop 1201meets with Girl Scouts to demonstrate Canoeing Skills (No Photos)

Troop 1201 Travels to Half Dome and Yosemite (and meets Troop 93 at the top)

“On Memorial Day Troop 1201 ventured to Yosemite National Park (thanks Don R.). In the 1800s this was home to the Miwok Indians. The white man named the area Yosemite after hearing one of the Miwok Indians exclaim Yo-che-ma-te or "some among them are killers." An interesting origin to a name that is associated with one of the most beautiful places on earth. We all enjoyed camping in tent cabins, eating good food (thanks Scott A.), ranger talks, puzzle building, hiking all day on Sunday and a mule ride. Many conquered the summit of Half Dome (8842ft) while others achieved the more reasonable Nevada Falls (5980ft). It was a great time albeit there were a lot of sore muscles on Monday night. – Scoutmaster Cliff”

Photos:   Index   Slideshow

Beginning Backpack to Bear Creak / Hoegees  2007/05/05

Over thirty Troop 1201 scouts ventured off into the Angeles National Forest this weekend on two independent backpacks. Fifteen scouts, led by Mr. Roth, tackled Bear Creek and were lucky to see 2-snakes and a Fox. Seventeen scouts, led by Mr. Georgieff, split into two separate hiking parties taking the two trails up to Hoegee' s Camp where they met and camped together with several other troops from the area. Both groups enjoyed great hiking weather on Saturday and dodged most of the heat that showed up on Sunday. Thanks to all who participated and we look forward to other hikes in the coming months.--  Scoutmaster Cliff

Photos:   Index   Slideshow      Much more photos on troop archive site: