The Dining Hall procedures at Seven Ranges are rooted in over 80 years of tradition at Buckeye Council camps. Great pride is taken in the orderly and mannerly way Scouts are expected to participate in.
Upon arrival at the dining hall ten (10) minutes prior to the meal, members of the camp staff will greet your unit at the doors. Your unit should be under the leadership of your Senior Patrol Leader and other junior leaders when entering the dining hall. Scoutmasters, adult leaders, and visitors should meet at the patio behind the dining hall.
Prior to entering the dining hall, Scouts will be asked to demonstrate their ability to tie specific knots. A different knot, as outlined in this guide, is the Scout’s “key”’ to entering the dining hall. Either a staff member, or preferably, a patrol leader or senior patrol leader in your unit will teach Scouts who cannot successfully tie the knot. Under no circumstances will anyone be denied access to the dining hall. This is an opportunity for your Scouts to hone their skills while also serving as an opportunity for the camp staff to interact personally with the members of your unit.
Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday
When the bugle sounds, units will enter the dining hall in an orderly manner, in absolute silence with arms folded and hats removed. Scouts should find their way to their patrol tables and wait until grace is sung before taking a seat and engaging in conversation.
Meals in the Frank G. Hoover Dining Hall are served family style using the host / waiter system. Each Scout will act as waiter for three consecutive meals beginning with Sunday dinner. Please follow this procedure as instructions are only given at dinner meals.
Waiters will be called to the kitchen to pick up food for their table. Your waiter is the only person permitted to enter the kitchen, retrieve beverage refills, etc. The camper seated to the left of the waiter will serve as the host. The host will portion the food out and pass the plates clockwise around the table. The waiter will receive his plate first followed by the leaders and staff seated to the waiter’s right. It is the responsibility of the leaders and staff to ensure that Scouts follow this traditional eating style and use manners during meals. Remember: “manners maketh the man”.
Immediately following the meal, some lively program including skits, songs, and special announcements will follow. At the conclusion of the meal, the Program Director will request everyone to “stand quietly for Trail the Eagle”. After singing, units may exit the dining hall.
It is the sole job of the waiter to remain in the dining hall for approximately 25 minutes to clean up the table after meals.