Boy Scout Troop 20

Troop 20 Handbook Guidelines and Policies Allohak Council Blennerhassett District Boy Scouts of America

Updated 6/19/13

2 Welcome to Troop 20 This guide is meant to give you the basics of our program and activities. No guide can cover all situations and questions and we invite you to ask any adult leader, attend a committee meeting or visit our website for more information. We want both our scouts and their parents to be comfortable with Troop 20 policies. A copy of this document is available on our website. The web site also includes greater detail on current activities and troop background information.

Troop 20 is chartered by the Wayside United Methodist Church, of Vienna, West Virginia. We have been chartered since 2009 with Wayside UMC. Prior to 2009 we were chartered with the St. Johns United Methodist Church and before that Vienna EUB. Troop 20 was first chartered in 1930. Troop 20 is the last surviving Troop in Vienna with other units folding into our membership.

The troop maintains a web site, www.troop20.us, as a means of making itself visible to prospective new scouts and to other Boy Scout troops; and to facilitate communication among our scouts, the youth and adult leaders, volunteers, and friends of the troop. The use of, and content on, our web site adheres to the BSA's philosophy on Youth Protection, and to our own tenets as a boy-led troop.

The troop annual plan, which includes all of our activities, is published in October and updated throughout the year. The three month plan is available along with the annual plan on the troop web site.

Table of Contents

COMMUNICATION (ScoutManage, Facebook, & Website) 3 ACTIVITIES (Troop Meetings, Patrol Leaders Council, Court of Honor, Camping) 3 ADVANCEMENT (First Class First Year, Book Signing, Merit Badges) 4 ADULT LEADERSHIP (Troop Committee, Board of Review) 8 TROOP POLICIES Elections & Troop Leadership 10 Patrols, Library Use, Dues & Attendance 11 Attendance, Being Active & BSA Medical Forms 12 Permission Slips & Camping 13 Youth Protection 14 Scout Accounts & Electronic Devices 15 Fund Raising, Service, High Adventure & Knife and Ax Use 16 REQUIRED ITEMS FOR SCOUTS and APPROPRIATE UNIFORM 17 TROOP 20 DISCIPLINARY RULES and ACTIONS 19 PARENTAL ROLE IN SCOUTING and PARTICIPATION 21 BASIC CAMPING EQUIPMENT FOR THE SCOUTS 23 EQUIPMENT FOR WINTER CAMPING 24 TROOP GUIDELINES REVIEW & TROOP COMMITTEE 25 TROOP GUIDELINES CONCURRENCE SIGNATURE PAGE 26

3 COMMUNICATION There are 3 main tools the troop uses to communicate.

ScoutManage ScoutManage is a software package that maintains all personal, financial, advancement and event information. Each parent is encouraged to signin to their ScoutManage account and keep all of their scout’s information current. Troop Adult and Scout leadership has the responsibility of keeping all event and advancement information current. The official calendar is maintained in ScoutManage. A link is found on the opening page of the troop website, www.troop20.us.

Facebook A facebook page is maintained with numerous posts, photos, forms and links. A link is found on the opening page of the troop website, www.troop20.us.

Troop Website The Troop committee maintains a troop website at www.troop20.us. The opening page is shared with Pack 20 and has official links to BSA, Allohak, Scoutmanage, MyScouting training, and the Wayside UMC. By clicking on the Troop 20 emblem you go into the troop site where numerous useful links are found. This is a static site and used for information that does not change often.

ACTIVITIES To fully participate in Troop 20 programs your scout will want to attend:

Troop and Patrol Meetings Troop and Patrol Meetings are held at the Wayside United Methodist Church, Grand Central Avenue, Vienna WV 26105 on Thursday nights 7:00 to 8:30 PM. Our meetings go year round. We meet in the large scout room on the third floor. Enter from the back of the church.

Patrol Leader Council (PLC) is comprised of all elected scout positions; Senior Patrol Leader (SPL), Assistant Senior Patrol Leader (ASPL) and all Patrol Leaders (PL), with the Assistant Patrol Leader (APL) attending when the PL is absent.) It is their job to plan the programs of the Troop, under guidance of the Scoutmaster (SM). The Troop Guide will attend with the New Patrol PL but does not have a vote. The PLC will meet the first Thursday of every month at 6:00 PM, prior to the troop meeting.

Court of Honor Court of Honor is a ceremony that recognizes the boys who have earned advancement in rank, merit badges, etc. These are held a minimum of four times a year at the Wayside United Methodist Church, typically Sunday evenings in the months of; January, April, July and October.

Monthly Camping Camping trips and Outdoor events are planned monthly. Planning is initiated by the SPL at the PLC meetings. The scouts utilize the Troop’s SPL Camp Planning Packet to

4 plan each event under the supervision of the adult leadership. Camping trips are held during all four seasons. Prior to each camp out, each patrol in their Patrol meetings, use the SPL Camp Planning Packet to develop menus, shopping list, tent buddies and plan the outing. Permission slips and Medical Form Parts A&B are needed.

Summer Camp We attend summer camp every year that the scouts pick and agree upon. Typically Summer Camp is at Allohak Council’s Camp Kootaga and occurs during the second or third week in June, and lasts one week. This is a great opportunity for the scouts to work on advancement requirements and earn merit badges. Permission slips and Medical Form Parts A,B & C are needed.

ADVANCEMENT

The requirements for the ranks of Tenderfoot through First Class prepare you to take full advantage of all that Scouting has to offer. Star, Life, and Eagle requirements focus on service to others and developing leadership skills.

Requirements for each rank are outlined in the Boy Scout Handbook. You can work on advancement requirements with your parents or other family members, with other Scouts and with adult Scout leaders. This can be done on your own, in patrol and troop meetings, and during other troop functions such as campouts. The list below is the suggested time line for advancement through First Class:

• Scout – at time of joining the troop • Tenderfoot - within 2 months of joining the troop • Second Class - within 6 months of joining the troop • First Class - within 1 year of joining the troop

Scout skills cannot be mastered by performing them just once. You will have many opportunities to practice each skill, and you will be thoroughly tested on each requirement before it is "signed off". In addition, expect to practice each skill repeatedly, even after it has been signed off. As you progress, you will also have opportunities to teach these skills to less experienced Scouts, which will further reinforce your knowledge and skill. The Troop Guides (senior scouts), Scoutmaster (SM), and Assistant Scoutmasters (ASM) work with the new patrol using the EDGE method to guide them through rank advancement. EDGE stands for Explain, Demonstrate, Guide and Enable.

As you complete each requirement, you will be tested and signed off in the BACK section of your handbook (pp. 438 - 449) by the Scoutmaster or by someone he designates. This person may be an Assistant Scoutmaster, a Troop Committee Member, or another, more experienced, Scout. (In Boy Scouts troop leaders, rather than parents, sign off advancement requirements. In order to avoid the appearance of impropriety, in most troops, troop leaders will not normally sign off rank requirements for their own sons. Infrequent exceptions may be made in the case of a leader who is teaching skills to several Scouts at once at a patrol or troop meeting or other Scouting function, but every effort should be made to have another leader sign off the instructing leader’s sons if possible.)

5 It’s up to you to take advantage of the advancement opportunities available to you, and to take initiative to ask for someone to test you when you are ready. You are responsible for keeping your own personal advancement record in your handbook. You should also record your service hours, campouts, troop activities, and leadership positions in your handbook.

You must earn the ranks in order, but you may complete any requirement for Tenderfoot through First Class at any time. (For example, you may complete a First Class requirement before finishing your Tenderfoot requirements, but you must earn Tenderfoot rank before you are awarded Second Class and First Class ranks.)

You will be meeting regularly with the Scoutmaster to discuss your activity in the troop and your understanding and practice of the ideals of Scouting. This Scoutmaster conference is also used to discuss your goals and accomplishments and is required for each rank advancement.

You do not have to wait until you have completed the requirements for a rank in order to ask for a Scoutmaster conference. You may talk with the Scoutmaster at any time that is convenient to both of you. However, for a Scoutmaster conference to count toward rank advancement it must take place after all other requirements are complete and before the Board of Review. At this required conference the Scoutmaster will also help you determine whether or not you are ready to go before the Board of Review.

After this Scoutmaster conference, you should arrange for your Board of Review following the procedures your troop has established. Boards of Review for all ranks except Eagle Scout, are normally held once a month, and are composed of three to six registered members of the troop committee. (Eagle Scout Boards of Review are arranged through your Council or District Advancement Committee and can have other members.) The Board of Review may not include the Scoutmaster, Assistant Scoutmasters, or your family members.

The purpose of the Board of Review is not to retest you but rather to ensure that you have completed all of the requirements, to determine the quality of your troop experience, and to encourage you to advance toward the next rank. (Sometimes you will meet a Board of Review even when you are not ready for the next rank, in order to check your progress and to see how things are going for you in the troop and in your patrol. The troop Advancement Chairman may schedule you for such a Board of Review when (s)he feels that an extended period has passed since your last Board of Review.)

You need to have your Boy Scout Handbook and should be in your field uniform when you appear before a Board of Review. At the beginning of the review, the president of the board will bring you into the room, introduce you to the board, and invite you to be seated. During the review the board will discuss your development along your trail to Eagle, ask you questions about skills that were required for your particular rank, and evaluate you in terms of troop activities and readiness for the next rank. It is also a time for you to ask any questions you might have and to give feedback to the troop committee about activities and your Scouting experience in your troop and in your patrol. At the end of the review you will be asked to leave the room while the board discusses your qualifications. The board will then call you back into the room and inform you either that you have been approved for the next rank or what additional actions you must take to qualify.

6 After passing the Board of Review, you will be recognized in front of the troop as soon as possible. You will receive your new rank patch shortly after, usually at the next troop meeting. You will be formally recognized for your rank advancements and merit badges in front of family and friends during a ceremony at a Court of Honor. At this time you will be presented with your wallet-sized certificate card and, if your troop presents them, a rank pin ("mother’s pin"). Most troops schedule four Courts of Honor each year. Your parents, other family members, and friends are invited and encouraged to attend all Courts of Honor.

After reaching the rank of Life Scout, you will meet with one of the adult leaders in the troop. At this meeting you will receive your Life to Eagle packet and discuss ideas and suggestions for your Eagle Service Project. This project must conform to special guidelines that have been outlined by the Boy Scouts of America. Your Scoutmaster, troop Advancement Chairman, and a representative of your District Advancement Committee, as well as the benefiting organization, must approve your project before you begin carrying it out.

MERIT BADGES

Earning merit badges allows you to explore many fields, helps you round out your skills, and introduces you to subjects that will perhaps become lifelong interests or a rewarding career.

There are more than 100 merit badges for you to choose from. You may earn any merit badge at any time, with Scoutmaster approval. Don’t wait for someone to tell you when and which merit badge to work on. You don’t need to reach a certain rank in order to be eligible. However, you should concentrate on achieving the rank of First Class before devoting a lot time to working on merit badges.

Don’t overwhelm yourself by trying to complete too many badges at one time. We recommend that you actively work on no more than two at one time until you reach the rank of First Class, and no more than five at one time thereafter. Keep in mind that this is only a recommendation and there is no limit to the number of merit badges a Scout can work on at any one time. Each Scout must be allowed to work at his own pace according to the Scout Handbook.

You can find information about merit badge requirements in the appropriate merit badge pamphlets and in the current year’s Boy Scout Requirements book. Some of these should be available in your troop library or at your public library. All of them are available from your Scout Shop or Council Trading Post, or a store which sells Scouting supplies in your area. If you are finished using merit badge pamphlets that you own, many troops encourage you to donate them to the troop library.

Here are the steps to earning a merit badge:

1. Get a blue merit badge card from the Advancement Chairman, or Scoutmaster, fill in your name, address, and the name of the badge, and ask the Scoutmaster to sign it. Then get the name and phone number of a qualified counselor from the Advancement Chairman or scoutmaster. 2. Call the counselor and set up an appointment. This can be at any place that is suitable to both of you. Along with a buddy (another Scout, a family member, or a friend), meet with

7 the counselor. The counselor will explain the requirements for the merit badge and help you get started. 3. Work on the badge requirements until you complete them, meeting with the counselor (along with your buddy) whenever necessary. You must complete the stated requirements and satisfy the standards of each merit badge. The merit badge counselor may encourage you to do more than the requirements state but he or she may not require it. YOU (not the counselor, Scoutmaster, or Advancement Chairman) keep the merit badge card until you have completed the requirements and the counselor has signed the card. If you lose this card, you will have to start the badge over unless the counselor is willing and able to vouch for what you already completed.

If you change counselors for any reason, it is up to the new counselor whether or not he or she will accept the work you did with the previous counselor. Normally the new counselor will ask you a few questions, and if the counselor is satisfied that you actually did the work that was signed off, he or she will accept it. 4. After you complete the merit badge and the counselor signs your merit badge card, he or she will keep the counselor’s section and return the rest of the card to you. Bring the rest of the card to the Advancement Chairman, who will keep the troop section and return the Scout section to you.

You will receive your merit badge shortly after you turn in the blue card (usually the next troop meeting). Your wallet-sized certificate card will be presented to you at the next Court of Honor.

RECORD-KEEPING

Your advancement records are kept in three places — your Council office, the troop Advancement Chairman, and yourself. The Council office keeps records supplied to them by the troop Advancement Chairman, who also keeps copies of these records for the troop. Many troop Advancement Chairmen also maintain their advancement information on computers. You will receive three kinds of documents that you need to KEEP IN A SAFE PLACE UNTIL AFTER YOU TURN 18 (or receive your Eagle Scout Award, whichever is later)! These documents are: your Scout Handbook with requirements signed off, your portion of completed blue merit badge cards, and the wallet-sized certificate cards for rank advancement and merit badge completion. Make sure all of them are signed or initialed by the appropriate Scout leader. All of the cards are the same size and can be safely kept in plastic protector pages (available at Wal-Mart, etc.) which are designed for baseball and other sports cards. IT IS VERY IMPORTANT THAT YOU KEEP THESE DOCUMENTS IN A SAFE PLACE AND DO NOT LOSE THEM!!! If it should happen that there is a discrepancy or missing records, your personal records are your most important ally in proving what you completed and when.

8 ADULT LEADERSHIP

Troop Committee  Troop Committee Meetings will be held the first Monday of the month at 7:00 p.m. at Wayside United Methodist Church and are open to all Troop adults and the SPL/ASPL.  In order to hold a position in the Troop Committee, one must be registered with B.S.A. Only registered Committee members, the Scoutmaster or his Scoutmasters Staff designee will have voting rights.  Two-Thirds of the Troop Committee needs to be represented to vote.  In the absence of the Troop Committee Chair, the Secretary will preside over the meeting.  The Troop Committee Treasurer will handle all Troop finances and make monthly reports of debits and credits and present to the Troop Committee.  A Troop checking account and checkbook will be maintained and kept by the Treasurer. The Scoutmaster may hold the Checkbook at the Treasurers discretion, for the purposes of writing checks during outings and in the absence of the Treasurer. One signature is required on each check. Authorized signatures are that of the Treasurer, the Committee Chair and Charter Organization Representative (COR).  The Troop account should be audited by the COR and the Charter Organization (CO) on a semi annual basis.  Troop Committee Positions . Chairman . Activities . Treasurer . Service/Training . Secretary/Membership . Scoutmaster . Advancement . Assistant Scoutmaster-Patrol Advisors . Equipment Manager . Assistant Scoutmaster-Webelos

Board of Review (BOR) The Board of Review (BOR) for rank will consist of three members of the troop committee, of which at least one must be BSA trained and one of which should be the Advancement Chair. BOR will be held during normal meeting hours, any week of the month provided the scout:  Requests and attends a Scoutmaster conference before the Board of Review is scheduled. He may do this directly with the Scoutmaster Staff or through the Scribe.  All Life Scouts will be given a Life to Eagle Brief by the Scoutmaster staff and a Life to Eagle BOR prior to the Life Scout starting his Eagle Project. This BOR will ensure the prospective Eagle Scout has an advancement report and understands the process of becoming an Eagle Scout.  Works with the Scoutmaster to ensure that his Scout Handbook is completely filled out and ready for presentation to the BOR.  Notifies the Scribe at least one week prior to the meeting he wishes to appear before the BOR. The Scribe will arrange a BOR with the Advancement Chair for

9 that Scout. In the Scribes absence, the scout may go directly to the Advancement Chair or sign the clipboard.  Is active and participating with the Troop in a manner that demonstrates that the Scout is showing Scout Spirit, and Living the Oath and Law in their everyday lives. Active and participating are defined as how a Scout is engaged in Troop meetings and outings. Scouts not showing active participation at meetings and events may, at the Scoutmaster or Scoutmaster Staff’s discretion, not meet the requirements for rank advancement.  Appear in Full Activity uniform as prescribed by BSA guidelines and have their completed Handbook with them in order to attend the BOR. If the Scout is out of uniform or missing the Scout Handbook the BOR will be rescheduled.

10 TROOP POLICIES

Elections Elections will be held during the first meeting of the months of March and September of each year, so each position is 6 months in duration. Boys running for elected positions must meet the requirements for that position, be nominated by the troop, accept the nomination and meet the Scoutmaster’s approval to run for that position. It is recommended that each scout make a short presentation to the troop representing his interest in the position.

Senior Patrol Leader (SPL) - no consecutive terms  Star or above  Has completed and agrees to  Be at least 14 years old continue leadership training  Has previously held the position of Patrol  Understands obligations and is Leader prepared to meet them  Active in Troop  Election by Troop  Leads Patrol Leader’s Council meetings

Assistant Senior Patrol Leader (ASPL)  Will be given to the second highest votes in the election of the SPL  Must meet the same requirements as the SPL.

Patrol Leader (PL)  Active in Troop  Election by Patrol  Completes Junior Leadership Training  Attends Patrol Leader’s Council  Understands obligations and is prepared meetings to meet them

Troop Leadership Positions Consists of: Assistant Patrol Leaders, Junior Assistant Scoutmaster, Troop Guides, Scribe, Historian, Librarian, Quartermaster, OA Representative, Troop Instructors, Web Master, Webelos Den Chief and may include other positions as assigned by the Scoutmaster:  Assistant Patrol Leader will be given to the second highest votes in the Patrol Leader election and must meet the same requirements as the Patrol Leader. The APL attends PLC in the absence on the PL.  The Scoutmaster, with Troop Committee approval, will appoint Junior Assistant Scoutmasters and Troop Guides. The JASM are assigned special projects by the Scoutmaster and report to the Scoutmaster. The Troop Guides report to the New Patrol Assistant Scoutmaster and work with integrating the New Patrol into the Troop. The Troop Guide attends the PLC with the New Patrol PL.  All other leadership positions will be appointed by the SPL with the Scoutmaster’s approval.  Scouts must have completed First Class rank to be appointed to a leadership position, except for PL and APL.

11  Scouts holding another elected or appointed position in the Troop cannot be appointed to a second leadership position.  All leadership positions will make a monthly progress report to the ASPL for the PLC meetings.  Scouts appointed to positions should complete Junior Leader Training for that position. Training is a continuum for all Scouting leadership positions. Participation in JLT after each election is essential for the team building effort and is a significant factor when giving credit to a Scout for holding that leadership position. The Scoutmaster will consider attendance at JLT when determining whether a Scout has successfully met leadership requirements.  Agrees to continue leadership development and practice such demonstrated leadership.  All leadership positions have a 30 day probation period. It is the Scoutmaster’s option to dissolve a position if needed. The Scoutmaster will have a conference with the Scout before any action is taken.  A Scout may be removed from a leadership position at any time if the Scoutmaster deems it necessary.

Patrols Troop 20 is a boy-led troop which is organized with patrols. Each patrol must keep an active patrol flag and yell. Each patrol is represented by their elected patrol leader and assistant with one vote at the Patrol Leaders Council. Patrols are formed at the end of February by the Webelos crossing over to Boy Scouts. They will stay together as a patrol through First Class rank. At each election, any patrol which drops below 4 scouts will be combined with another patrol with the direction and approval of the PLC. This is to keep the patrol numbers large enough to function in the troop. Any scout which has served as the SPL or ASPL, or gains the Star rank may choose to join another patrol with Scout Master’s approval. A patrol may vote to change it’s name and colors at any time with PLC approval.

Dues Annual dues are $60 and are payable in March of each year. Dues may be paid in two separate equal installments with the second installment payable no later than May 31 of each year. Dues are payable to BSA TROOP 20. These dues cover most of the normal troop operating costs (merit badges, patrol patches, training, guidebooks, etc) associated with running the troop for the year, BSA dues and an annual Boyslife subscription. Scouts who are behind on dues will not be eligible to receive rank advancement and may not be allowed to attend certain outings. Exceptions and assistance is offered to scouts in need. Please contact the Scoutmaster or Troop Committee Chair to have a confidential discussion about options.

All costs for other activities (camp outs, etc.) are separate from the dues and are payable by the participants. If a subsidy is necessary to make an activity available to more scouts, it must be approved in advance by the Troop Committee.

12 Attendance Regular attendance at weekly troop meetings, monthly outings, and other troop activities is necessary to fulfill advancement requirements toward the Scout’s next rank. Attendance at campouts, service projects, fund raisers, etc. will be considered in evaluating the scout for “Be Active In Your Troop” and “Scout Spirit” requirements for advancement.

If a Scout is going to miss a meeting or event, he must notify either/or any of the following: the Troop Scribe; his Patrol Leader; the Senior Patrol Leader; the Assistant Senior Patrol Leader; any Scoutmaster Staff; any Committee Member; prior to the meeting or event. In turn the contact will inform the Scoutmaster.

BEING ACTIVE IN THE TROOP While we encourage members of the Troop to attend every meeting and activity we sponsor, we recognize that the demands of family; school and personal interests will make this a rarity. However, the Troop needs the scout’s and adults participation to remain a vibrant unit and provide an effective scouting experience to all our members.

One of the requirements for advancement for each rank beyond 1st Class is being active in the Troop for a defined period of time. For purposes of rank advancement, a Scout must have his dues paid and needs to participate in at least 60% of all Troop activities to be considered active in the Troop. Troop activities include Troop meetings, outings, fund raising events, summer camp, service time events including volunteering to help on Eagle projects, scouting for food, and other scout events on the Troop calendar. Also, the period of participation should be consecutive. If a rank advancement requirement is “be active with your Troop for four months” a Scout would need to meet the 60% attendance requirements for four consecutive months (e.g. November through February, not September, November, March and May).

Annual Medical Form In order to provide better care for its members and to assist them in better understanding their own physical capabilities, the Boy Scouts of America recommends that everyone who participates in a Scouting event have an annual medical evaluation by a certified and licensed health-care provider—a physician (MD or DO), nurse practitioner, or physician assistant. Note that unit leaders must always protect the privacy of unit participants by protecting their medical information.

Parts A and B are to be completed at least annually by participants in all Scouting events. This health history, parental/guardian informed consent and release agreement, and talent release statement are to be completed by the participant and parents/guardians.

Part C is the physical exam that is required for participants in any event that exceeds 72 consecutive hours, for all high-adventure base participants, or when the nature of the activity is strenuous and demanding. Service projects or work weekends may fit this description. Part C is to be completed and signed by a certified and licensed heath-care provider—physician (MD or DO), nurse practitioner, or physician assistant. It is

13 important to note that the height/weight limits must be strictly adhered to when the event will take the unit more than 30 minutes away from an emergency vehicle, accessible roadway, or when the program requires it, such as backpacking trips, high-adventure activities, and conservation projects in remote areas.

Part D is required to be reviewed by all participants of a high-adventure program at one of the national high-adventure bases and shared with the examining health-care provider before completing Part C.

Note: A link is provided on the Troop website to the current BSA Medical forms which are provided as a fillable PDF. Members are encouraged to fill it out on their computer, then print the record (rather than printing the record and filling it out by hand). Doing this will improve the readability and accuracy of each member's medical information.

Medical forms are usually asked to be updated prior to Summer Camp of each year, but they can be updated and turned in at any time as needed. A scout, leader or parent cannot participate in a troop event without current signed and dated Medical form.

Permission Slips A permission slip signed by a parent or legal guardian is required before a scout can participate in any outside activity. Permission slips will be available on the troop website to print, fill out and turn in prior to a scheduled activity. Please take the time to read it and completely fill in all the required information and return it by the due date.

Note: Any policy at Boy Scout summer camp or any Boy Scout sanctioned program/facility or any other program/facility in which the Troop participates or camps supersedes our Troop guidelines.

Camping There is nothing more gratifying than a scout that has returned from a camping adventure and cannot wait to start planning for the next outing. BSA Youth Protection and Safety is the Troops upmost concern.  All Scouts First Class and below, will have a tent buddy unless permission is obtained from the Scout Master during the outing planning meeting. This is to help the Troop enforce the ‘Buddy System’ with some of the younger scouts.  Each Patrol will develop a menu and duty roster, have them approved by the Scoutmaster or another adult leader prior to each campout, and have them posted during the campout. Some campouts will require a combined troop menu and duty roster.  The Patrol Leader will be responsible for coordinating with the Troop Quartermaster to make sure that his Patrol has adequate Troop-furnished equipment for each camping trip. This should be done on the Thursday prior to the day of departure.  Scouts who have told their Patrol Leader they are planning to go on the camping trip must pay their share of the food costs even if they do not attend, unless the patrol “Grubmaster” is notified prior to purchasing the supplies for the camping trip.

14  Scouts are not allowed in other Patrol sites or adult areas except when permission is obtained, or to see the Scoutmaster in an emergency.  The Patrol Leader will be responsible for assigning to different Scouts any equipment that needs to be taken home for cleaning or drying. All cooking equipment must be thoroughly cleaned before being returned to the Troop shed. All Patrol equipment must be maintained in proper condition. The Patrol Leader will be responsible for notifying the Quartermaster when their patrol box needs supplies or equipment is broken.  A Tour Permit must be turned in by the contact person for all overnight campouts. Every event must have a two deep adult leadership present at all times.

Youth Protection The Boy Scouts of America takes great pride in the quality, integrity, and professionalism of its volunteer adult leaders. Without our fine leaders, the BSA program could not be delivered with the exceptional level of vitality and success it has enjoyed for the past one-hundred years. BSA has long known that one key to success in leadership is training. Effective leaders are set-up to succeed, not to fail, through various training programs that both enhance their ability to provide Scouts with a quality program and protect their safety while doing so.

BSA Youth Protection Training is an integral part of the training regime in Scouting. In the Allohak Council, we are offering a new initiative in Youth Protection Training that takes the form of a challenge for all registered leaders. That challenge is simple – take the Youth Protection Training every year even though BSA only requires that it be taken every two years. Toward that end, the Allohak Council is committed to making the training available in a variety of ways.

The BSA website is an easy way to complete most BSA required training. For Youth Protection Training, if you have access to a computer either at home or at a local library, simply go to http:/myscouting.org. If you have a user name and password, login and take the training. At the end of the approximately 20 minute session, you will be able to print a certificate of completion. The Council will automatically have verification that you completed the training. If you do not have a user name and password, the login page allows you to create an account which affords you access to all training, including Youth Protection. To do so, just follow the prompts, remember that your Council is Allohak #618, and have your eight digit Scout Identification Number from your membership card available.

The Council is also committed to other innovative ways of providing the training. One goal is to provide each unit leader with a Training DVD that may be played at committee meetings or lent to individual leaders. Once the video is viewed, the leader must contact the Council Service Center at 1-800-654-5272, and speak with John Burns to certify that that training took place. In addition, the Youth Protection DVD will be available at many Council functions such as merit badge midways, universities, and colleges; as well as Summer Camp, camporees, and adult leader training. Leaders who are waiting for Scouts to finish merit badges or who otherwise have about twenty spare minutes at these events will be able to quickly update their Youth Protection training.

15 The BSA recognizes that one key component in their effort to protect Scouts from sexual abuse is Youth Protection Training for adult volunteers. The Allohak Council, your Council, supports this mindset and believes that we can continue to cement our position as a Council that thrives on innovation by doing more than is required. Login to myscouting.org or ask your leader for a copy of the Youth Protection DVD today. Your Council and your Scouts will appreciate your efforts!

Electronic Devices Scouts may have a cell phone during camping trips for emergency contact to parents only. It MUST be stowed away in the scout’s personal gear/backpack. A scout may have a cellphone at a troop meeting, but it will only be used to contact his parents after the meeting is over.

Generally, Scouts are discouraged from bringing electronic devices such as a Walkman, MP3/Ipod, or radio with earphones and/or handheld video games on any camping trips. These items detract from the outdoor nature and patrol method of the scouting experience. These items are allowed to be played in a car going to a scout activity of long travel duration. If the use of a device is a distraction to the driver, if requested, the scout MUST put away the device. After arrival at the destination, the device must be stowed away in the scout’s personal gear/backpack.

If at any time, a Scout’s use of the cell phone violates BSA youth protection guidelines or the Scout’s actions are not in keeping with the Scout Law or Scout Oath, the Scout’s phone will be placed in the possession of the adult leadership and returned to the scout with his parent(s) present.

Remember, the SCOUT is RESPONSIBLE for the use, care and whereabouts of any cellphone or electronic device. (Keep in mind that adverse weather conditions can affect these devices.)

Scout Accounts Each scout has the opportunity to earn money at various Troop fund raiser events. Money earned is kept in the scout’s name in a Troop account. The money may be used to pay for Troop or Scouting events and activities. This includes Troop dues, outing fees, summer camp fees. Scout accounts may also be used to purchase clothing or equipment needed for scouting activities. For example, uniforms, a sleeping bag or backpack, cold weather clothing for winter events. The Scouts cannot obtain cash from these accounts without presenting a receipt for the purchase of Scouting-related equipment, supplies, or uniforms. He will be reimbursed with a check from the Troop Treasurer. Only the scout may use the money in his name. This also applies to the Adults with a troop account.

If a Scout quits Scouting, any balance left in his account will revert to the Troop General Fund. Boys who age out will also forfeit the funds in their Scout Account, unless they have a younger brother active in the Troop who can accept the funds. A boy who leaves Troop 20 to join another Boy Scout troop has to work out an arrangement with his new Troop and Troop 20 to exchange the funds. In the event of illness, relocations,

16 or unforeseen emergency circumstances any unused scout account balances which were deposited from personal scout or family funds will be refunded back to the scout/family in the form of a check.

Fund Raising The Troop participates in up to three fundraising activities each year, listed below. Any other fundraising activity must be approved by the Troop Committee.

1. Mulch Sale- this is annual spring sale that has been growing every year. Our scouts and parents work together to make the sales for this project in the weeks prior to the mulch delivery. Distribution takes place in one day and the sale is well organized. This sale funds the majority of our equipment and logistics budget items. Scout’s receive 10% of their presale in their scout account. 2. Popcorn Sale – this annual fall sale is a Council sponsored sale. The responsibility of selling lies mainly on the scouts, as parents can assist. Scout’s receive 10% of their presale in their scout account. 3. Applebee’s Breakfast- this annual summer event is parent led and run to raise additional funds for Summer Camp food purchases to prevent extra cost being passed to the scouts.

Service Projects The Troop participates in up to three service activities each year:

1. Scouting for Food 2. Scout Sunday 3.

17 REQUIRED ITEMS FOR SCOUTS There are two “MUST HAVE” items for the scouts: The OFFICIAL BOY SCOUT HANDBOOK, latest edition The OFFICIAL BOY SCOUT UNIFORM shirt Upon joining Troop 20, each scout is given a handbook, shoulder loops and a troop neckerchief and slide.

Uniforms Boys will wear an appropriate Boy Scout uniform at all Scout functions. The term “uniform” is broken down into three groups; they are (a) the Full CLASS A uniform, (b) the CLASS A uniform, and (c) the CLASS B Activity Shirt uniform.

The FULL CLASS A Uniform Tan BSA shirt with red/green epaulets, current Troop and Rank insignias, Troop 20 neckerchief with BSA slide, Merit Badge Sash, (OA Sash as required). BSA olive green pants or shorts, BSA belt with buckle, BSA socks (as close to BSA regulation as practical) are strongly encouraged and recommended. Appropriate shoes for the activity or event are strongly encouraged, no open toed shoes except for swim events or personal hygiene (showers).

The CLASS A Uniform Tan BSA shirt with current Troop and Rank insignias, and appropriate shoes for the activity or event. Olive green pants, jeans or cargo type shorts, BSA belt with buckle, BSA socks (as close to BSA as practical) are optional and are strongly encouraged and recommended.

The CLASS B Activity Shirt uniform Troop T-shirt or other BSA related T-shirt, BSA or Troop hat and appropriate shoes for the activity or event. Olive green pants, jeans or cargo type shorts, BSA belt with buckle, BSA socks (as close to BSA regulation as practical) are optional, but strongly encouraged and recommended. Basketball shorts and Track pants are not acceptable as they are usually made of highly flammable materials.

THE APPROPRIATE UNIFORM FOR SCOUTING FUNCTIONS: Campouts and Council Events Minimum CLASS A uniform as described above should be worn for all travel to and from campouts. Boys can change out of this uniform at the appropriate time, and into the CLASS B Activity shirt uniform. The Scoutmaster or Scoutmaster Staff, or adults transporting boys on long trips (over 2 hours travel time) may make exceptions to this uniform rule. However, boys are required to put uniforms on if public stops are made along the way. Scoutmaster’s Conference, and BOR, COH. CLASS A uniform as outline above. Merit Badge Sash, OA Sash, Medals and/or Ribbons are optional but strongly encouraged. Troop Meetings CLASS A Uniforms unless otherwise noted that the activity will require a CLASS B Activity shirt. Some Service projects or events may require old clothes.

18 DISCIPLINARY RULES Troop 20 strives to be a Troop that helps the scouts to live by the guidelines outlined in the Boy Scouts of America Oath and Law. Scouting should be fun and safe. A Scout should be able to learn and grow through organization, cooperation, and activities that are lead by their troop leaders. They will gain new skills, self-esteem and confidence in their abilities. By gaining a new outlook and life values, scouts will realize they are members of a larger organization and that the Boy Scout rules are to be obeyed.

RULES 1. OBEY THE SCOUT OATH AND SCOUT LAW 2. No unnecessary or inappropriate physical roughness and contact (fighting) 3. No bullying, hazing or harassment of another Scout or Leader 4. No comments that threaten to hurt or attempt to intimidate others 5. No misbehavior or refusal to abide by the troop’s policies which is seriously detrimental to the welfare of the Troop 6. No negative and derogatory banter as well as foul language 7. Disruptive or abusive remarks and behavior which shows disrespect to the group and/or Troop Leadership. When the scout behaves in this manner, it affects the other members of the Troop 8. Stealing 9. Vandalism 10.Inappropriate use of fire (i.e. lighting aerosol cans) 11.Inappropriate use of knives, axes, etc.

DISCIPLINARY ACTIONS Boys will be given two warnings at any one event before parents may be called to pick them up, (regardless of distance). The Scoutmaster or the Scoutmaster Staff must approve all decisions of the Leadership Corps, regarding disciplinary actions for all minor infractions.

The Patrol Leaders, Assistant Senior Patrol Leader, or the Senior Patrol Leader (PL, ASPL, or SPL) will normally handle minor infractions of rules by Scout Troop members. If the PL, ASPL, or SPL cannot resolve the situation, the Scoutmaster or the Scoutmaster Staff will be notified. The Senior Patrol Leader, Patrol Leader or another scout will not administer any discipline to another scout.

The Scoutmaster or Scoutmaster Staff will handle all repeated minor infractions by holding a Scoutmasters Conference with the scout troop member. If the Scoutmaster feels it necessary, he may at his discretion request a Disciplinary Board of Review (DBR) to resolve the situation.

Serious infractions that violate the Guide to Safe Scouting or of any standing Troop orders and rules will be brought before the Scoutmaster and Scoutmaster Staff for presentation to the Troop Committee for action which could result in dismissal from the Troop and from B.S.A.

19 PARENTAL ROLE IN SCOUTING These are some of the things that will help your child get the most out of Boy Scouts. Help your Scout learn to plan ahead, so that scout activities will have minimal conflict with school work. We realize their school work must come first. Help your Scout learn the scout skills and plan opportunities to get and master scout skills. The Troop leaders will sign a Scout’s book when a skill is learned. See the Boy Scout Handbook for details. Encouragement from you can be very helpful in making steady progress in advancement. Join your scout on Troop camp outs. You’ll be surprised you can have a good time on outings too!

Attend the Court of Honor which is held four times a year to honor the boys who have advanced in rank or earned merit badges. Serve our Troop as an adult leader. This can be as an Assistant Scoutmaster, Committee Member, Merit Badge Counselor, or other volunteer position. Please contact the Committee Chair or Scoutmaster for more information. Support the troop fund raising program. We count on the Scouts’ parents to support our fund raising efforts. Provide your Scout with the basic scouting equipment needed for meetings and camp outs, and most of all support the ideals and purposes of scouting. In addition to providing fun activities for Scouts, the purpose of scouting is to build character, citizenship, and physical and mental fitness. Your Scout will get as much out of scouting as he puts into it. Our experience and the National BSA experience shows that he will derive much more from scouting if you, as parents, are involved in the program.

PARENT PARTICIPATION A parent from each scout’s family is expected to take on some of the work to keep the Troop running. Some Committee roles require steady participation throughout the year, while others only require occasional effort. The Troop Committee maintains a list of these positions. Here is a list of just a few roles that parents can take on:

Patrol Assistant Scoutmasters Assistant Scoutmasters assist the Scoutmaster in putting on the scouting program for the scouts. They are assigned to a patrol and work directly with the patrol’s scouts, and provide instruction in the basic skills that a scout needs to master in order to advance. Two PASM’s are needed for each patrol. This gives us a broader base for adults who can assist at a camping trip or event.

Troop Committee Members The role of the troop committee is to support the Scoutmaster and the troop in an advisory capacity. The committee helps to generate ideas, manage finances, coordinate activities with the sponsoring organization, and provide logistical support, such as coordinating camping trips, special events etc. for the troop’s scouting program.

Merit Badge Counselors Parents with a skill who can advise the boys, organize the activity, or teach the skill can be a counselor. A merit badge counselor is registered with the Boy Scouts of America and is available for counseling and approving the scout for earning the merit badge. Any adult can be a merit badge counselor. Having

20 adults associated with our Troop as counselors makes it easier for the boys to earn merit badges in just about every field. We always need more merit badge counselors. You can choose to counsel our troop only or to be available for the District.

Special Events Coordinators There are many kinds of special events, ranging from service projects to camping trips to fund raising events. A coordinator’s function is to put the proper plans in place to ensure that the special event is a success. This type of activity is ideal for the parents or guardians who wish to help the Troop, but cannot do so on a regular basis. If each parent got involved for just one event we would have plenty of support and help.

Camping On the camping trips, there is always room for parent(s) or guardians to attend along with their son to assist in overseeing the activities. The camp outs are always a lot of fun, so please consider participating!

Drivers Drivers are always needed for camp outs, field trips, meetings away from the church, summer camp, etc. Driving is fairly painless, but always appreciated.

21 BASIC CAMPING EQUIPMENT FOR THE SCOUTS Please ensure that your Scout has his name on all of his items. Feel free to discuss any questions or concerns with a Troop Leader before purchasing any equipment. For overnight camp outs and summer camp, the scout and parent should consider the following equipment: General Items � 1 Scout Uniform - Scout Uniforms are worn to and from all camping trips � 1 Backpack / Duffel Bag � 1 Sleeping Bag 40F for summer conditions � 1 Ground Pad � 1 Pillow - Old pillow/ pillow case for camping only � 2 Flash Lights - One Head lamp light plus one hand held � 1 Spare set of Batteries � 1 Water Bottle - It will be worth investing in a good Nalgene water bottle, 1 liter capacity � 1 Scout Handbook - Mandatory for getting requirements signed off � 1 First Aid Kit � 1 Towel � Spending Money for program supplies, Handicraft items, Trading post or travel.

Personal Hygiene These items should be packed for all weekend camp outs. Don’t be surprised if they come back unused. Boys will be boys and they will learn these responsibilities as they go.

Clothing for an Overnight Camp Out All items should be taken on all camping trips unless otherwise noted (Use your judgment depending on the weather, length of camp out, etc.). Remember: Cotton Kills in Cold Weather. � 1 Poncho / Rain Gear � 1 Hiking Boots - These are a MUST. They should be Boots (not hiking shoes) at least ankle high and water proof � 1 Sneakers or Tennis Shoes - No Sandals, Crocks, or other open toed shoes � 1 Jacket / Sweater FLEECE or WOOL are the best. Otherwise Polyester….NO COTTON � 1 Hat Baseball cap for day time. Knit ski cap for sleeping � 2 Long Pants � 1 T-Shirt Troop or other Scouting Activity shirt (Class B) � 1 Long sleeve shirt / sweatshirt � 3 Underwear - 1 extra pair for the # of days in the field � 2 Socks, Regular - 2 extra pairs for each of the # of days in the field � 2 Socks, Hiking Wool or Wool blend � Pajamas Fleece or other warm sleep wear � Gloves Optional � 1 Mess Kit with Knife/fork/spoon - Use old silverware, plastic camp utensils or Sporks � 1 Travel Mug � 1 Rope 10-15' nylon cord to practice knots and lashings � 1 Notebook, Pencil & Pen � 1 Compass � 1 Watch � 1 Knife Folding knife only 3" blade or shorter. No fixed blade knives � 1 Camp Chair

22 EQUIPMENT FOR WINTER CAMPING Our experience is that fall and winter camping can really be fun, but only if the scout is well prepared for cold weather. Therefore, in addition to the basic camping equipment previously listed, we recommend the following equipment for cold weather activities and camp outs from November - March (and sometimes in October and April as well). The quantities listed are appropriate for an overnight winter camp out.

Clothing � 1 winter boots with removable liners � 2 long pants � 1 snow pants (for skiing) � 2 shirts – long sleeve � 1 sweater/fleece � 1 jacket/winter coat � Long underwear Extra layers are needed to ensure warmth both day and night. � 2 Warm hats � 2 or 3 Gloves / mittens Warm leather gloves or mittens are preferred, as the nylon variety may get burned. � 1 rain gear � 1 Pajamas (socks & Hat for sleeping) � 1 or 2 Face Mask or Balaclava

Sleeping 1 Winter Sleep Bag - A mummy style bag is the best for heat retention. It should have 3 or more pounds of polyester fill and be rated to + 20 degrees F. or less. Temperature ratings should be clearly established before the purchase is made. Down bags are not recommended as they lose their insulating value when wet or damp. Polyester is less expensive and retains insulating properties even when damp. Polyester bags are also machine washable.

1 Sleeping Pad - Closed cell foam sleeping pad - This should be one half inch thick and can be with or without a cover. Pads of this type are necessary for winter camping to insulate the sleeper from the frozen ground. Conventional air mattresses do not provide the necessary insulation, although the self-inflating camping mattress works well. Pads should be 22-24 inches wide and 72 inches long. We strongly suggest that parents check the scout’s equipment and clothing the first several times before he leaves for a winter camp out. The Troop Leaders can also provide additional guidance.

23 TROOP GUIDELINES REVIEW These guidelines should be reviewed annually for updates and the Leaders listed below are required for approval signature. If a major change occurs to these guidelines, a copy will be sent to all parents and scouts. The Scout/Parent signature page will be kept in the Committee Chair box.

______Date ______Scoutmaster

______Date ______Committee Chair

______Date ______Charter Organization Rep.

2013 Troop Committee: John Shepard Charter Organization Rep & Assistant Scoutmaster-Ninja Squirrels Eric Reitmire Scoutmaster Erin Perez Committee Chairman & BOR Stephanie Shepard Committee Secretary Larry Barchett Committee Treasurer Jill Chidester Committee Advancement Coordinator Phil Essenmacher Committee Equipment Coordinator & BOR Mike O’Donnell Assistant Scoutmaster-Albino Black Bears Alex Perez Assistant Scoutmaster-Mountain Men Todd Handley Assistant Scoutmaster-Webelos & Committee Website Coordinator Steve Keiser Assistant Scoutmaster-Shadow Dragons Tag Lancaster BOR Bobby Lancaster BOR Carlton Chidester BOR Brian Standley BOR Randy Rather BOR Tracie Rather BOR

24 TROOP GUIDELINES CONCURRENCE SIGNATURE PAGE The Guidelines have been presented to the perspective youth or adult member or initially to our current Scouts.

The Guidelines have been reviewed with the perspective member by a member of the Committee (as a membership function)

Acceptance of the Guidelines have been agreed to by the Scout AND his parent(s) or legal guardian by signatures below.

This page when completed should be inserted into the Scouts membership file or record. BSA youth or adult applications for Troop 20 should not be processed until this document has been accepted and completed by a perspective member.

______Date ______Troop Scout acceptance and agreement

______Date ______Troop Scout Parent or legal guardian acceptance and agreement

______Date ______Troop Scoutmaster Endorsement

______Date ______Troop Committee Chair