TROOP 1910 HANDBOOK Revised April PDF Free Download

TROOP 1910 HANDBOOK Revised April 2015

SCOUT TENDERFOOT 2 ND CLASS 1 ST CLASS STAR LIFE EAGLE 2

INTRODUCTION What is the purpose of this Handbook? It is intended to answer the most frequently asked questions about the way Troop 1910 operates. Your involvement in the Troop will hopefully span many years. Please review this Handbook carefully to become familiar with Troop 1910. Tell me about Boy Scout Troop 1910? Troop 1910 was chartered in June 1998 under the sponsorship of the Lucketts Ruritan Club. We started with 5 Scouts and have grown since then. Troop 1910 was created with the back-tothe-basics concept of Scouting in mind. This would emphasize backpacking, hiking and camping with the Troop going on a monthly outing year round. Additionally, the Troop would focus on the skills necessary to achieve Rank advancements and earn Merit Badges. Each year the Troop publishes an annual calendar of events listing the outings, campouts, fundraisers, and community service projects. The calendar can be found on the Troop web site http://scouts.lucketts.net/. In the summer of each year the Troop attends a one-week summer camp, usually targeted at the Scouts in the early ranks such as Tenderfoot, Second Class and First Class. With a wide range of BSA sponsored camps to choose from this allows the Scouts to do many different activities such as earning merit badges and interacting with Scouts from all over. The Troop will offer a High Adventure Summer Camp if there are Scouts that are age eligible, usually in the upper ranks such as Life, Star and Eagle. The Troop operates under the Patrol Method. This mode of operation means that the boys, under the guidance and the advice of a trained adult Scoutmaster and his Assistant Scoutmasters, run the Troop. This method allows the Scouts to learn leadership skills and gives them a safe environment to grow into successful, confident adults. Troop 1910 encourages the individual Scout to advance in ranks using the Boy Scout Handbook and programs designed to teach basic outdoor skills for camping and hiking as well as first aid. The Merit Badge programs will help Scouts learn more about themselves, their community as well hobbies, interests and careers. The highest rank in Boy Scouts is the Eagle Scout. Troop 1910 makes the opportunity available for each Scout to achieve this great goal. This is done through perseverance and dedication by the boy, encouragement and support from his family and guidance from the Troop Advisers. The Troop is constantly working in this direction. 4

Who runs the Troop? The Scouts themselves run the Troop. The boys select and decide on monthly activities and outings for the year. The Senior Patrol Leader is elected by the Troop and the Patrol Leaders are elected by their Patrol members. The Scoutmaster appoints some of the other leadership positions. The Senior Patrol Leader and his assistants run the meetings and outings. He also chairs the Patrol Leaders' Council. The Scoutmaster and his Assistant Scoutmasters help guide and advise the boys in the running of the Troop by attending the Patrol Leaders Council and Troop meetings. They work with the Scout leadership to enable Scouts to learn how to be a leader. What are the Troop Leadership positions? Senior Patrol Leader He must be Star rank or above. Elected by the Scouts to represent them as the top junior leader in the Troop. He runs all Troop meetings, events, activities and the annual program planning conference. He runs the Patrol Leaders Council. He assigns duties and responsibilities to junior leaders. He reports to the Scoutmaster. Assistant Senior Patrol Leader - He must be Star rank or above. Selected by the Senior Patrol Leader after consulting with the Scoutmaster. He helps the Senior Patrol Leader. Patrol Leader - Elected by the Patrol members to lead the Patrol and represent them at the Patrol Leaders Council. He helps Scouts in his Patrol advance and keeps them informed of all activities, campouts, and other duties. He sets the example for the Patrol. He reports to the Senior Patrol Leader. Assistant Patrol Leader - Selected by the Patrol Leader after consulting with the Scoutmaster. He helps the Patrol Leader with his tasks. Troop Guide - Selected by the Scoutmaster and is assigned to work with new Scouts. He helps to make them feel comfortable and introduces new Scouts to Troop operations. He sets the example for them and teaches them basic Scout skills. He reports to the Assistant Scoutmaster for new Scouts. Instructor, Quartermaster, Den Chief, Bugler, Scribe, Librarian, Historian, Chaplain Aide, Junior Assistant Scoutmaster, Order of the Arrow Representative, Leave no Trace Instructor and Toop Webmaster These are positions of responsibility and are assigned by the Scoutmaster. Positions will be held for a period of 4, 6 or 12 months depending on the Scoutmaster and Scouts rank. They report to the Scoutmaster. If the Scout is not doing his assigned or elected position, then the Scoutmaster and Scout will have a Scoutmaster Conference. If the Scout continues not to do his assigned or elected position, then the Scoutmaster can remove him from his position and appoint another Scout to complete his term of office. 5

What is the Patrol Leaders' Council (Green Bar)? The Patrol Leaders' Council meets monthly to plan the activities for the upcoming Troop weekly meetings, outings and events. It is run by the Senior Patrol Leader and attended by the Assistant Senior Patrol Leader, Patrol Leaders, and Troop Guide. The Scoutmaster and Assistant Scoutmasters attend to guide and advise the Council on various matters. The Scribe attends to take notes but is not a voting member. Other Troop members that are in positions of responsibility are involved in the planning process, also. The Patrol Leaders Council is sometimes referred to as the Green Bar. The name comes from the green bar that is on the Badge of Office that each Senior Patrol Leader, Assistant Senior Patrol Leader, Patrol Leader and Assistant Patrol Leader wears on his left sleeve. When does the Patrol Leaders Council meet? The Patrol Leaders Council meets monthly on an agreed upon date and time determined by the Scoutmaster and Senior Patrol Leader. The meeting location will also be determined although it is typically held at the Lucketts Community Center. How are Scouts assigned to a Patrol? The Scoutmaster assigns Scouts into a Patrol. He will create a new Patrol specifically for new Scouts and an experienced, older Scout will be given the responsibility as Troop Guide to work with the Patrol. The Scouts in each patrol elect a Patrol Leader, who then appoints an Assistant Patrol Leader after consulting with the Scoutmaster. Patrol leadership in the new Scout Patrol rotates for the first year until they reach First Class rank. This is to allow each Scout the opportunity to learn about leadership. Who do I contact if I have any questions? Call the Scoutmaster for questions about equipment, meetings, outings and Scouting in general. His name and phone number can be found on the Troop roster and the Troop Website http://scouts.lucketts.net/. Call the Troop Committee Chairman for Troop operation, oversight, and committee functions. His name and phone number can be found on the Troop roster and the Troop Website http://scouts.lucketts.net/. 6

What are the Troop Adult Leadership positions? The Scoutmaster is the adult leader responsible for guiding the Senior Patrol Leader in running the Troop. He reports to the Troop Committee. The Scoutmaster has reporting to him Assistant Scoutmasters who help him in his tasks. He assigns an Assistant Scoutmaster to each Patrol as a Patrol Advisor. The Patrol Advisors oversee their assigned Patrol and work with that Patrol Leader by guiding him in the responsibilities of his position. He reports back to the Scoutmaster the status of the Patrol advancement and signs-off on menu planning for outings. 7

PARENT RESPONSIBILITIES AND INVOLVEMENT What is the "Scoutmaster's Rule"? Parents never carry a Scout's pack or gear. Parents never pack a Scout's pack or gear. The Scout is responsible for his own equipment, patrol food and troop equipment. The Boy Scout Handbook has a list of items to pack. What are the parents responsibilities? Parents are responsible for bringing the Scout to meetings on time. Parents are expected to pick up their Scout on time at the end of the meeting. Parents are expected to share responsibility for Troop transportation for outings even if they do not stay the weekend. Scouts cannot drive. Parents are expected to help out, when asked, on special projects. Parents should make sure their Scout completes school homework so he can attend meetings and outings. Parents are responsible for completing the exercises in the booklet "How to Protect Your Children From Child Abuse and Drug Abuse" with their son when he joins the Troop. This is an Advancement and Joining requirement and is the only requirement that a parent is allowed to pass their son on. Do parents need to participate in the Troop? When the son joins, the parents join. Experience shows that involved parents keep Scouts interested and active. Parental involvement is essential to support the activities of the troop. 8

How can the parents participate? Provide transportation to and from outings. Parents are always invited on every outing and are needed. Join the Troop Committee. Attend Troop Committee Meetings. Take on a position in the Troop Committee. Attend Troop Meetings. Help with Special Projects and Fundraisers. Serve as Merit Badge Counselors (holding Merit Badge sessions during meetings or at your home). Run special training sessions at meetings. Serve on Boards of Review. Become an Assistant Scoutmaster or Patrol Advisor by getting recommended by the Scoutmaster and Troop Committee Chairman. What BSA training is available for adults? Youth Protection Training - This is the first training all leaders are required to get upon joining Scouting. This is obtained from the BSA website MyScouting.org. A copy of your completion certificate must accompany your BSA adult membership application and must be retaken every 2 years. Fast Start Take at the same web site and completed prior to meeting with youth members of the Troop. Position Specific Training - a basic class full of information on how to run a successful BSA Troop. Again on the web site. Safety Afloat and Safe Swim Defense two classes of about two hours to certify attendees on water safety for the Troop. Done on the web, also. Introduction to Outdoor Leader Skills - a short class of about an hour that is offered by the Troop Committee Chairman done during a campout. WoodBadge- Advanced Scoutmaster Training. It involves a strong commitment to the Troop by the adult to complete. National and Council classes are offered on different subjects; throughout the year at different locations. University of Scouting - a National Area Capital Council sponsored training for adults. One day seminars of topics / subjects that the adult signs up for. Required training for adult leaders in TROOP 1910 Youth Protection Training Fast Start Position Specific Training Safety Afloat and Safe Swim Defense Introduction to Outdoor Leader Skill 9

TROOP COMMITTEE What is the Troop Committee? The Troop Committee is responsible for providing the support to enable the Scoutmaster to deliver the scouting program to the boys. It is a policy-making body that has ultimate responsibility for the performance and welfare of Troop 1910. Its members consist of interested parents and other adults who have registered with the Boy Scouts of America. All parents are welcome and encouraged to attend and participate. The Scoutmaster, Assistant Scoutmasters and a representative of the Charter Organization also attend. What are some of the Troop Committee positions? Troop Committee Chairperson Secretary Treasurer Advancement Chair Summer Camp Coordinator High-Adventure Camp Coordinator Transportation Health/Medical forms Dues and Attendance Fundraising; Yard Sale Chair Fruit Sale Chair Lucketts Fair Beverage Sale Lucketts Fair Hospitality Outdoor Activities Community Services Committee Members When does the Troop Committee meet? The Troop Committee usually meets once a month on the second Monday of the month at 7:00PM. The meeting is held at the Troop Committee Chairman s house. Check the Troop Calendar for exact dates. http://scouts.lucketts.net/. 10

TROOP MEETINGS When are the Troop meetings? Troop meetings are held every Thursday evening at 7:00 PM at the Lucketts Community Center. Parents should make sure that they deliver their Scout no later than 6:55 PM so that the meeting can begin on time. The meetings end at 8:30. The meeting will automatically be cancelled if school for that day has been canceled for: 1. Inclement weather 2. A scheduled school holiday 3. The week of summer camp What happens if a parent is late in picking up a Scout up from the meeting? Every attempt is made to end the meetings promptly at 8:30 PM. The Scoutmaster or assigned adult will not leave the Community Center until all the boys have been picked up. Being late is an inconvenience to the Scoutmaster or assigned adult who must stay until the last parent arrives. PLEASE BE ON TIME. Do Scouts need to attend every meeting? Yes, in order to be considered active in the Troop and for rank advancement, Scouts should plan on attending. In sports, a boy must attend the practices to play in the games and to improve. Similarly, in Scouts, a boy must attend the meetings to be eligible to go on the monthly outings and to advance. Advancement opportunities and skill training occur at meetings. Missed meetings means lack of advancement and the Scout will lag behind the other boys. For older Scouts, (age 14 and up and hold the rank of at least Star) the Scoutmaster has special assignments, duties and projects for the Scout to complete instead of attending every meeting. These assignments, duties and projects all have a due date established by the Scout and Scoutmaster. What happens if a Scout does not attend meetings? The Scout is expected to contact the Senior Patrol Leader or Scoutmaster (prior to the meeting) to let them know why he will miss the meeting. If the Scout continues to miss meetings, the Scoutmaster may set up a Scoutmaster s Conference with the Scout to discuss his participation. If after this meeting, the Scout continues to miss meetings, the Scoutmaster can place the Scout on Inactive Status and he cannot attend any outings or hold a position of responsibility. The Scoutmaster may reinstate the Scout 12

after he has had a Scoutmaster s Conference. The older Scout that does not complete his assignments, duties or project by due date will be placed on inactive status and cannot hold a position of responsibility and go on outings. The Scoutmaster may reinstate the Scout after he has had a Scoutmaster's Conference. What options does a Scout have to avoid Inactive Status? The Scout can attend meetings regularly, or he can have a Scoutmaster s Conference prior to the Scouts absence to see if he can be excused from meetings. 13

OUTINGS What kind of outings does the Troop go on? Troop 1910 tries to go on an outing each month of the year. We have hiked and camped the Appalachian Trail many times as well as in the Shenandoah National Park. The Troop has done white water rafting and day trips into Washington DC. We have use of a large island in the middle of the Potomac River where we have had weekend campouts as well as using it for a campsite on a 20 mile canoe trip. The C&O Canal is 184 miles long and the Scouts have hiked numerous miles, biked all 184 miles and camped a number of nights along it. We attend a weeklong summer camp at BSA run reservations and have done many backpacking and camping trips in the area resources. When can a Scout go on an outing? Before going on a Troop outing, a boy should have completed his joining requirements and be registered as a member of Troop 1910 with the National Capital Area Council. He must have a fully executed Troop 1910 Medical Record Form, signed by one parent or guardian. This form must be in the possession of the Scoutmaster. He must be an active Scout in the Troop. After completing the above requirements, a Scout can go on any approved Troop or patrol outing. Troop Outings include attending Boy Scout of America events like Jamborees, Scouting on the Mall, Council and District events, summer camp, highadventure camp and Troop Outings that are on the annual calendar that the Troop has scheduled. All outings require a signed permission slip that the Scout will get two weeks prior to any outing. This slip is the written information of the event and the date, time, location of departure and date, time, location of return. It must be returned to the Scoutmaster before a Scout can go on an outing. What is the Annual Calendar? Once a year, usually in September or October, the Troop Scouts create a list of campouts and outings that they would like to do during the year. The Senior Patrol Leader makes a list of events and takes it to the Green Bar meeting where they make a draft of the annual calendar. The Scoutmaster and Assistants review this draft of the annual calendar for revisions. After this, the plan is taken to the Troop Committee for final approval and the calendar is updated on the Troop website http://scouts.lucketts.net/.. 14

When must the Scout commit to attending an outing? A firm commitment to attend an outing is expected to be made two weeks before an outing (may be longer for special outings such as summer camp and high adventure trips). Planning for food and transportation needs to be done prior to outings to allow patrols and leaders time to prepare. Meals are decided by patrols for outings and the cost for the food generally should stay around $18.00 per Scout for a weekend outing. Some outings require a registration fee from each Scout attending and the money needs to be collected early, often a month in advance. What is a Grubmaster? A Grubmaster is chosen by his Patrol to purchase the food for their outing. He is to use the menu decided on by the Patrol as his shopping list. He will purchase ONLY those items needed for the menu. He will shop economically and will not spend more money than the Patrol has collected. Substitutions can be made only if an item is not available and the substitution will be of a similar item. The Grubmaster will be reimbursed for the cost of the food up to the budgeted amount. He must submit a receipt for reimbursement to the Troop Treasurer. Parents may advise and guide a Scout in shopping for the food but may not do it for the Scout or purchase additional items not on the lst. This is an opportunity for the boy to learn new skills that will help him throughout life. What if a Scout cancels out before the Outing? A Scout who changes his mind has the responsibility to notify his Patrol Leader of the change. The Patrol Leader will inform the Senior Patrol Leader who will then inform the Scoutmaster. If food or other items have been purchased prior to this notification, the Scout must pay his share of the cost regardless of his attendance on the outing. What do Scouts do on an outing? Scouts have FUN! FUN! FUN! During the outing the Scouts will learn scout skills needed for advancement in Tenderfoot, Second Class, First Class and camping. The experienced Scouts will refine and teach the younger Scouts skills. In some cases all Scouts will work on earning a merit badge while on the outing. 15

Why send my son to Summer Camp? Scouts have FUN! FUN! FUN! During the week long stay at camp, new Scouts will learn scouting skills for advancement in Tenderfoot, 2nd Class, 1 st Class and earn 2 merit badges. New Scouts should go to summer camp in order to learn these skills and it really benefits them in getting up to speed with the Troop and making life-long friends. The other Scouts will work solely on earning merit badges which are needed for advancement to Eagle. This is the best place for a Scout to earn 4 to 5 merit badges in one week. Some of the merit badges earned at summer camp are not offered in the troop setting. Summer opportunities for the older Scouts. The Troop participates in High-Adventure Camps and activities that are for Scouts ages 14 and older. Some of the activities planned include Philmont Scout Ranch in Northern New Mexico, Northern Tier canoeing along the Canadian/Minnesota border and Sea Base in the Florida Keys. The Scouts and Scoutmaster decide these camps and activities along with the Troop Committee. Can non-scout boys attend Troop outings? Individuals who are not registered in Troop 1910 may not attend Troop outings unless they have PRIOR Scoutmaster approval and they are accompanied by their parents or guardian (depending on age) OR they have a fully signed Troop 1910 BSA Medical Record Form and written permission from their parents or guardian for the outing. Can Scouts bring electronic devices on outings? Electronic devices such as Cell Phones, radios, IPads, electronic games, TVs, computers, etc. are not permitted on outings. They will be confiscated and returned at the end of the outing. DO NOT BRING THEM ON OUTINGS. Can Scouts bring any knife to any Troop activities? NO! A Scout cannot carry a pocket knife unless he has earned his Totin Chip. The Totin Chip can be taken away from any Scout that does not follow the guidelines for Totin Chip or uses it in an unsafe manner deemed by the adult leader. Sheath knives and folding knives with blades over 4" long are not allowed. 16

What about Smoking, Alcohol and Drugs? There will be no tobacco products, alcohol or illegal drugs permitted in the Troop meetings or any Troop activities by Scouts or adults at any time. Prescription or overthe-counter medication should be noted on the Troop 1910 Medical Record and updated annually or as needed to keep it current. Scouts requiring medication on outings (prescription or nonprescription) must provide the medications and a written permission slip from parents / guardian indicating type, dosage, medical condition(s) and permission for the Scoutmaster or responsible adult for that activity to give the medications to the Scout while on outings. The Scoutmaster or responsible adult for that activity will keep the medications for the Scout while on outings unless it is needed for a life threatening condition. (asthma, allergic reactions, diabetes, etc). How are medical emergencies handled on outings? A Troop 1910 Medical Record Form signed by parents is required for each Scout. In a medical emergency, this form authorizes the Scoutmaster to obtain emergency medical services and treatment, including hospitalization. Parents will be notified promptly. Does the Troop carry liability insurance? Yes. Secondary with limited coverage. 17

ADVANCEMENT IN SCOUTING What are the Ranks of Scouting? When a boy joins Scouting and has completed the joining requirements, he becomes a Scout. As he learns and works on his Scouting skills he will progress to the next rank, Tenderfoot. Continuing with his learning he will earn the next rank, Second Class. Once he has successfully completed all the basic skills and requirements of the outdoors, camping, first aid and other tasks he will achieve First Class. The Scout may work on any requirement, in any order, for any of the lower ranks; however, he may not achieve the ranks out of order. He must earn Scout, Tenderfoot, Second Class, First Class in that sequence. It is possible to earn more than one rank at a time this way but it is not the norm. After the Scout earns First Class he begins working on the upper ranks of Scouting, Star, Life and Eagle. To earn these ranks the Scout does community service, holds a Position of Responsibility with the Troop for a certain period of time and earns Merit Badges. Each rank requires a certain number of Merit Badges to be earned, some of which are Eagle rank required. Who approves Rank Advancement requirements? The Scoutmaster, Assistant Scoutmasters and Patrol Advisors are responsible to insure that a Scout has mastered a given skill and satisfied a given requirement. These leaders may delegate the testing and approval responsibility to another qualified Scout usually the Senior Patrol Leader and Troop Guide. Who will check on the Rank Advancement of a Scout during the year? The Patrol Advisor will be working with the Scouts in the Patrol towards advancement. Also the Scoutmaster will be having a Scoutmaster Conference with each Scout during the year to review their progress toward advancement. Parents are encouraged to attend. The Advancement Chairperson provides to the Scoutmaster, Assistants and Patrol Advisors, reports on advancement during the course of the year. A specialized computer software program used by the Troop to track all activities and advancements does this. 18

What are the procedures to follow for Advancement in Rank? 1. As a Scout completes each specific requirement in his Scout Handbook, the Scoutmaster, Assistant Scoutmaster, Patrol Advisor or qualified Scout must 'sign-off' and date that item. (Enter the specific day if known) 2. The Scout then informs the Advancement Chairman that he has completed a requirement and shows him the signed-off requirement in the Handbook. The Advancement Chairman will record the completed requirement in the TroopMaster computer database. 3. When all requirements, except Scoutmaster Conference and Board of Review are completed, the Scout will notify the Scoutmaster that he is ready for a Scoutmaster Conference. They will schedule the conference to occur during a Troop meeting. He will present his Scout Handbook to the Scoutmaster during the Scoutmaster Conference. 4. The Scout will notify the Advancement Chairperson when they have completed the Scoutmaster s Conference and the date completed. 5. The Advancement Chairperson will schedule a Board of Review for the Scout. This will be done within the next few weeks after the request. The Advancement Chairperson will staff the Board of Review with qualified Troop Committee Members and provide the Board of Review with the Troop record of advancement and participation for each Scout attending the Board of Review. The Scoutmaster cannot serve on the Board of Review. 6. The Chairman of the Board of Review will return the Scout records to the Advancement Chairperson indicating the action taken. 7. Scouts successfully completing a Board of Review will be recognized with the appropriate Rank emblem at the current or next Troop meeting. (The effective date of rank is the date the Board of Review was passed regardless of when recognized.) Formal recognition will be done at the next scheduled Court of Honor. Does a Scout need the " Official BOY SCOUT HANDBOOK"? YES. Bring it to all meetings and outings. The BOY SCOUT HANDBOOK is an important reference for all Scouting activities. Advancement requirements are signed off and dated directly in this book. Write your name on the outside end of the book in magic marker! This Handbook is an important record of a Scout's advancement. Don't lose it! The Advancement Chairperson will use the Scout Handbook to record the completed requirements in the Troop records. The BOY SCOUT HANDBOOK is the Scout's ready reference and is to be used in conjunction with this Troop 1910 Handbook. 19

What is a Scoutmaster Conference? The Scoutmaster Conference is a requirement for rank advancement. The Scout and Scoutmaster review the requirements for that rank and any previous ranks. If the Scoutmaster feels confident that the Scout demonstrates the knowledge and skills required, and has shown Scout Spirit, he will initial and date the Scout's Handbook. The Scout must present himself in a neat, clean, full uniform (Class A) and have his Handbook. This is for all rank advancements, Tenderfoot to Eagle. The Scoutmaster s Conference is also used to review where a Scout is in advancement and where he needs to go for advancement. It is a tool where the Scoutmaster and Scout can set up goals and objectives and a plan to accomplish them. The Scoutmaster will use the Scoutmaster s Conference to find out where a Scout stands in Scouting and provide some guidance and direction with the Scout and a plan to accomplish his goals. What is a Board of Review? The Board of Review consists of a minimum of three adults from the Troop Committee. The Scoutmaster, Assistant Scoutmasters, Patrol Advisor of the Scout Patrol and the parents of the Scout CANNOT be on the Board. The Scout must present himself in a neat, clean, full uniform (Class A) and have his handbook. The Board will ask him questions about scouting, the Troop, activities he has attended, and advancement requirements pertaining to the rank he is completing. The Board announces the results to the Scout and Scoutmaster after conferring. All award insignia for rank will be presented as soon as possible, typically at the same meeting. Formal recognition of advancement is given at the next Court of Honor. Scouts must complete advancement requirements at least one week prior to a scheduled Board of Review so that Board of Review members can be notified. Scouts must also be current in their dues or they will not be able to have a Board of Review. What is a Court of Honor? The Court of Honor is a ceremony that recognizes merit badges, rank advancement and other awards earned. Court of Honor ceremonies are held at regular Troop meeting times, as well as during some campouts or other activities. All parents are asked to attend the Court of Honor in order to make them the special event they were meant to be. The Scout must present himself in a neat, clean, full uniform (Class A). Courts of Honor are held quarterly. This ceremony is a special event with a long history in Scouting. Scouts should show respect for their leaders, parents and each other during the ceremony. 20

What are the procedures to follow to earn a Merit Badge? 1. Obtain a blank Blue Merit Badge Card from the Advancement Chairman or Scoutmaster and get assigned a registered Merit Badge Counselor for that Merit badge. 1. The Scout will present the Blue Card (filled out with the necessary information, neatly printed) to the Scoutmaster who will review the pairing with a Merit Badge Counselor and sign the Blue Card indicating the Scout is authorized to begin the badge work. 2. The Merit Badge Counselor will indicate the completion date of each merit badge requirement on the Blue Card and the final completion of all requirements by completing and signing the Blue Card. The Merit Badge Counselor will then return the Blue Card to the Scout (Scout and Troop portion only). The Merit Badge Counselor will retain the counselor s portion of the Blue Card for a minimum of 2 years. 3. The Scout will have the Blue Card signed / checked off by the Scoutmaster. 4. The Scout will present the Blue Card to the Advancement Chairman. He will enter the completed Merit Badge name and date in the TroopMaster computer database for record keeping and rank advancement. The date entered in the troop records will be entered on the Blue Card and the Troop portion of the Blue Card will be placed in the individual Scout Records (hardcopy). Troop records will be maintained until no longer required (i.e. Scout has already passed an Eagle Board of Review, or is over 18 1/2 years of age, or a signed, certified record of advancement is placed in the file of a Scout who has been inactive for 18 months or longer.) 5. The Advancement Chairman will ensure that the Scout will receive a Merit Badge at the next Court of Honor for all Blue Cards presented to the Advancement Chairman. All Blue Cards must be presented two weeks prior to a Court of Honor in order to have time to obtain the Merit Badge patch from the Council office. (The effective date of any badge or rank is the date completed regardless of when recognized.) 6. The Scout MUST retain the applicant s portion of the Blue Card in a safe location. When a Scout appears before an Eagle Board of Review, he must be able to produce this record to prove that he has earned the Merit Badge. The Troop portion of the Blue Card is to be used only as a backup copy. The Scout is to be responsible for his own record keeping. 21

Who can be a Merit Badge Counselor? They are adults who have a special interest, hobby, or skill in a specific field or job that pertains to any of the Merit Badges listed in the Boy Scout Handbook. There is no registration fee to register as a Merit Badge Counselor and the Troop encourages all adults to volunteer as a counselor. Merit Badges are required for advancement to Eagle and the more Merit Badges the Troop offers the better chances a Scout can become an Eagle Scout. The Scoutmaster or Committee Chairman will give counselor orientation to adults. Scouts should not use their parents for Merit Badge Counselors. Both the Advancement Chairman and the Scoutmaster may authorize exceptions to this rule. What do I do as a Merit Badge Counselor? With the Official Merit Badge pamphlet, the Merit Badge Counselor will teach, guide and mentor the Scout so that he can complete all the requirements for that badge. Scouts can work on any Merit Badges after completing the rank of Scout. Work on Merit Badges may be done at Troop meetings, in a group, outside meetings, on an individual basis (recommend using the buddy system), outings or at summer camp. The Troop maintains a library of merit badge pamphlets that Scouts of the Troop may borrow through the Troop Librarian while working on the Merit Badge. The library does not have a pamphlet for all Merit Badges and the pamphlets change every two years. The Scout may have to purchase his own pamphlet to complete the requirements for the Merit Badges. Remember, for all concerned, there must be two Scouts using the buddy system or two deep leadership by adults while working on Merit Badges. 22

SCOUT UNIFORM What parts of the Boy Scout Uniform are required? A Scout is expected to wear a full uniform which is: 1. Official Scout Shirt with green epaulets, Troop 1910 numerals and National Capital Area Shoulder patch. 2. Official Scout pants are strongly encouraged, but not mandatory. Any type of dark green colored pants or shorts are acceptable. 3. Scout socks. 4. Scout web or leather belt. 5. Troop Neckerchief and slide. 6. Patrol Patch. 7. Badge of Office if Scout is holding position of responsibility. 8. Official Scout hat or Scout themed hat. 9. Merit Badge Sash (required for Scoutmaster Conference, Board of Review and Court of Honor). 10. Only Order of the Arrow Members are authorized to wear the Order of Arrow (OA) Sash, which can be worn in lieu of the Merit Badge Sash. Refer to BSA Insignia Guide for proper location and wearing of patches, pins, awards, and merit badges on the uniform. Class A uniform is items 1 through 8 with items 9 and 10 as required. Class B uniform is the red Troop T-shirt with the troop numerals and Lucketts,Va on the right breast pocket. It is worn with the green pants/shorts, Scout socks and belt. Class B uniforms may be purchased through the Troop Committee Treasurer. When is the Scout Uniform worn? The Class A uniform is worn at Troop meetings, for Scoutmaster Conferences, Boards of Review, and at Courts of Honor. On weekend outings, day hikes or day activities, Scouts must wear the Class A uniform to and from the outing. During the activity the Scouts can wear a Class B uniform or Scout themed T-shirt. The Class B shirt is purchased from the Troop and a newly offered Class C hiking shirt is also available for purchase. Any Scout showing up for an outing or activity without his uniform may be asked to return home to get it. The Scoutmaster will announce any change in uniform for activities / outings. The Class B uniform is worn during the summer months (when school is out) in place of the Class A uniform. 24

EQUIPMENT What equipment are the Scouts expected to provide? Troop 1910 Scouts will be going hiking and camping every month and having the right equipment is important. This list is a supplement to your BOY SCOUT HANDBOOK in explaining what you need. Chapters 8 and 9 have information and lists of what you need for outdoors fun. The following suggestions are for lightweight equipment that is suitable for your Scout to use. In addition to their personal camping gear (toilet paper, toothbrush, soap, change of clothes, change of under clothing, extra socks, small washcloth/towel), these are important pieces of equipment which the Scouts are expected to provide. 1. BACKPACK - Must fit the Scout properly, whether it is an internal or external frame pack. There are several types of adjustable pack frames available, which can grow with the Scout. It should have a good suspension system that fits his hips and back properly, which will distribute the weight evenly. Consult with an experienced leader before buying. 2. BACKPACK COVER - This is used to cover the backpack at night and when hiking on the trail. There is no room in the tent for packs. A pack cover will do or a large trash bag. 3. SLEEPING BAG - A sleeping bag rated for 15-30 degrees is generally good enough for scouting activities. The sleeping bag should not weigh more than 3.5 or 4 lbs. A mummy bag is generally a good style because of size and weight. In addition, the sleeping bag should be placed in a waterproof "Stuff Sack". This protects the bag and makes it easier to strap to the pack frame. Use two 48" nylon straps to fasten it to the bottom of the pack frame. Do not use a style that has elastic straps. 4. SLEEPING PAD - The sleeping pad goes under the sleeping bag and insulates the sleeper from the ground (primary function) and provides some comfort (secondary function). Make sure the pad is a closed-cell foam and will work in cold temperatures that may be encountered in winter camping. 5. HIKING BOOTS - The Troop participates in activities that require ankle support and foot protection. Tennis shoes or sneakers are not appropriate. 6. SOCKS - Blends of wool, polypropylene and nylon are probably the best outer socks. A thin liner sock to help reduce the chance of blisters should be worn beneath the outer socks. 7. CLOTHING - Scout should dress in layers of clothing so he can add or take off clothing as needed during the trip. Adjust for season. 8. LONG UNDERWEAR - For cold weather camping. DO NOT USE COTTON; look at polypropylene, thermax, capilene or comfortrel. A nylon sweatsuit may be a substitute. 9. GLOVES/MITTENS - Gloves will work on most Scout trips. 26

10. HAT - Use the baseball style cap for sun protection. For cold weather a sock cap made of Thermax or polypropylene is good. 11. PERSONAL FIRST AID KIT - See requirements for Second Class 6B and other personnel needs 12. RAIN GEAR - The Troop plans outings by date not necessarily by the weather. Because an outing can be wet, rain gear is necessary. A two-piece, lightweight, rain suit is ideal for this. Ponchos are a poor substitute and end up getting the Scout and his backpack very wet because it won t cover both very well. 13. CANTEEN A Lexan 1-quart container with a large screwtop opening. The Scout should have two; one for him and one for cooking water. 14. COMPASS - Rectangular plastic base with measurement markings and a round, rotating compass with readable markings. 15. EATING GEAR - Lexan bowl, Lexan spoon, fork, knife or spork and an insulated mug or metal Sierra cup would do. 16. FLASHLIGHT - A small flashlight that uses AA batteries is sufficient and lightweight. You may want to look at a headlamp instead of a flashlight for hands free operation. Spare batteries and bulb are a must. 17. SUN PROTECTION - Use a waterproof sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) of 20 or higher. 18. POCKETKNIFE - Can be carried by Scouts who have their Totin Chip. 19. MATCHES Can be very helpful in starting campstoves and campfires. They should be waterproof and are to be carried only after a Scout has earned his Firem n Chit. 20. ROPE - 100' feet of lightweight cord or other suitable rope which will be used by the Scout on outings. 27

Can Scouts bring personal stoves, tents or lanterns to outings? No. The Troop provides this equipment for the outings. Using approved, well-maintained Troop equipment, which the Scouts have been trained on how to use, is a basic safety procedure. Use of personal equipment also leads to inequity in the level of equipment among the Scouts and can lead to ever higher costs of I gotta have type of problems What camping equipment does the Troop provide? The following Troop equipment is provided: 1. Tents with groundcloths 2. Cooking stoves and fuel 3. Cooking kits (pots/pans/utensils) 4. Lanterns 5. Dining tarps 6. Water containers and water purification systems 7. Ax and saw What about loss or damage to Troop equipment? The Scouts are responsible for the proper care and use of Troop equipment. In the event of abnormal wear, damage or loss of Troop equipment, the Patrol Leader and Senior Patrol Leader will investigate and make their recommendations to the Scoutmaster for presentation to the Troop Committee for action. The decision of the Troop Committee is final. What equipment is prohibited? Sheath knives and folding knives with blades over 4" long. Any type of electronic or battery operated equipment excluding flashlights 28

REGISTRATION FEES AND TROOP FINANCES What does it cost to be a member of Troop 1910? Troop 1910 has established monthly dues of $5.00 payable at the first Troop meeting of the month. The monthly dues may be prepaid but for no more than 1 month in advance. Scouts must pay their dues even if they miss a meeting. If the Scout is not present at the first meeting of the month he can pay his dues at the next meeting. If a Scout gets more than 2 months behind in dues, the Scribe will notify the Scoutmaster who will have a Scoutmaster Conference with the Scout to let him know that he must keep his dues current. The Scout has 2 weeks from that point in which to catch up with his dues. This money goes into the Troop checking account and is used as part of the operating fund for the expenses of the Troop. The Troop budget for each year includes many items that each Scout benefits from directly and indirectly. Some of those items are listed here to help inform each Scout how his dues are used: Merit Badge patches and certificates Rank Advancements patches and certificates Awards and Recognitions Equipment purchases, repairs and replacements Administrative expenses for the Troop Special occasion expenses Misc. items The annual Recharter fee for each Scout and Leader is due the first week of October. This annual registration fee maintains the eligibility of the Scout/Scouter to continue being a member of the Troop. If it is not paid the Scout/Scouter will be dropped from the membership rolls for BSA and must reregister in order to rejoin the Troop. Currently this fee pays for membership, insurance and Boys Life magazine subscription. This fee is currently $37.00 per Scout and $25.00 for Adult Leaders (2015). BSA does not charge Merit Badge Counselors an annual fee. The Troop Committee oversees the handling of the fund and directs the Treasurer to administer the fund.. What other costs are required? There are costs associated with most outings. This will be the cost of food, condiments, paper towels, aluminum foil, and other related items, Additionally, there may be a registration fee to a District event or an entrance fee for use of a National Park or other facility. The Scout will be informed of the cost prior to each outing and will pay for it before he can attend. 30

Does the Troop have fund-raising activities? The Troop tries to have several fundraising events each year. This brings additional money into the Troop General Fund that can be used to offset the costs of running the Troop. Sometimes this can help with outings that may have a higher cost associated with them. For example, a white water rafting trip will have an Outfitter cost that the Troop may pay part of. Or there may be an unexpected equipment expense that needs to be taken care of. The Troop Committee is the group that determines the needs and authorizes payments of money. The Troop has 3 scheduled fundraisers each year starting with a Spring Yard Sale. At the annual Lucketts Fair in August, the Troop will operate a soda and water sale. In the Fall, the Troop will hold a Florida Citrus Fruit sale.. How does the Troop operate these fund-raising activities? These fund-raisers are organized and run by subcommittees of the Troop Committee. The Troop depends on the Scouts and parents to staff each event. The Subcommittee Chairman for the fundraiser will work with the Scoutmaster and Senior Patrol Leader to have the Scouts and parents sign up to help. Additionally, he or she will guide the Troop in the planning and running of the event. Do I have to participate in these fund-raising activities? Yes. Each Scout has an obligation to help run the Troop. Troop expenses are a real, every day part of the cost of running the Troop just as there are daily expenses related to running a home. Learning that it takes money to run the Troop and work to earn the money is a life experience that is well taught by these activities. Parents are also needed for these activities What is a Scout Account? To encourage Scout participation, as well as give each Scout an opportunity to earn personal money that he can use to pay for Troop related costs, the Troop Committee has directed that a percentage of the money raised at an event will be divided among the Scouts working the event. The Scout will be paid for each scheduled hour that he signs up for and works. After all the money is collected from the fund-raiser and any expenses deducted, the net amount will be divided, between the Scouts working the event and the Troop General Fund. The Scouts do not directly receive the money. A separate tracking account will be set up for each Scout and the money will be entered into a Scout Account. The Scout will be informed of the amount that he has earned and the balance in his Scout Account. 31

Once the Scout has accumulated money in his Scout Account, he may use the money in several ways: To pay for the costs of a Troop outing To pay for Summer Camp To pay for BSA High Adventure outings To pay for Class A or B uniform expenses If he wants to accumulate money in order to save for a high-cost outing such as Philmont or High Adventure or, if he wants to use it to pay for every outing the Troop goes on, it is his decision. The Scout may not add to the Scout Account except through participation in fund-raising activities. If he does not participate his account will not grow; however, his expenses will always be there. He may not add personal money to it at any time and may not pay for unpaid dues. To pay for personal hiking/camping gear In the event that a Scout leaves the Troop, the money in his Scout Account will be dispersed in the following manner: When a Scout decides to use money from his Scout Account to pay for the costs of one of the above, he informs the Scoutmaster who will then inform the Treasurer to deduct the cost from the Scouts account. If he wants to use his account to pay for uniform items he presents a paid receipt to the Scoutmaster who will again inform the Treasurer to deduct the cost from the Scouts account. 1. If he transfers to or joins another Troop, either locally or elsewhere, the money will be retained by Troop 1910 and disbursed to the new Troop Scout Accounts. The money will be transferred to the Scout Account through the new Troop Treasurer. 2. If the Scout leaves Scouting completely, the money will be returned to the Troop General Fund. 32

SCOUT SPIRIT How can a Scout demonstrate Scout Spirit? SCOUT LAW Trustworthy Loyal Helpful Friendly Courteous Kind Obedient. Cheerful Telling the truth in all matters. Behaving the same when alone or with other Scouts as you do when the Scoutmaster or Assistants are present. Doing what you say you are going to do. Not starting or spreading rumors about others. Being dependable for fellow Scouts, family, friends, leaders, school and nation. Striving to make things better by doing what needs to be done without being told. Making only helpful comments during meetings. Actively participating in training sessions held by leaders. Limiting horseplay during meetings, outings and activities. Seeking to understand the point of view of others and respect their views. Helping others to get the most out of Scouting through example and encouragement. Not calling others names or striving to irritate others. Being considerate of others and strive to work together in patrols and teams. Not interrupting speakers during meetings and limiting wise cracks. Paying attention to speakers during meetings and following instructions. Doing nothing to someone else unless you would want them to do it to you. Not harming or killing anything without good reason. Supporting other Scouts that may be discouraged during meetings or outings. Following the rules of the Troop and instructions of the leaders Looking on the bright side of things even when it "rains". Not constantly complaining about things without 34

Thrifty Brave Clean Reverent striving to make them better. Carefully using your time during meetings to learn skills or work on advancement. Taking care of Troop equipment and the property that we use for meetings and outings. Standing up for what you believe and behaving properly even if others do not. Attending all meetings in a clean and proper uniform. Keeping your mind fit by not using profane or objectionable language. Picking up after yourself at all meetings and outings. Being faithful to your religious beliefs and respecting the beliefs of others. Showing respect to God and others by not wearing your hat in church or indoors during meetings or Courts of Honor. 35