Welcome to Troop 474 You Have Selected the Most Active Troop in Green River District
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TROOP Dear Parents,
Welcome to Troop 474 !! You have selected the most active troop in Green River District. You and your son will have an opportunity to participate in a wide variety of exciting activities. Through these activities your son will grow and mature.
The aims of scouting are to build fitness, establish character and promote citizenship. All of our activities center around these aims. Along the way, he will find friendship, fellowship and a lifetime of memories. It will probably be a whole lot of fun for him and for you.
At this writing (Jan 2001) I have logged 24 years as a Scoutmaster (for a total of 35 years in Scouting). During that time I’ve come to this observation: Of the 640 or so boys that have participated in Troop 474 over the past 24 years, only two have been successful in their scouting career without the involvement of their parents.
If you’re not involved, your son will “drop out” within six months. If you are involved, and you do participate, support, and encourage your son (yes, sometime even push, kick and shove him along) and if he stays involved until he is 18 years old, what will result will be an outstanding young man. That is the outcome of an effective scouting program. That is my promise to you.
Please read the following booklet carefully, it contains the answers to most of the questions you may have (after 640+ parents I’ve got the questions down pretty well). After you’ve read the booklet, please feel free to ask any other questions you might have of me or anyone in the troop. If you have any concerns, either now or in the future, please call.
On behalf of Troop 474, I welcome your son (and you) to Scouting. The friendships you develop will be lifelong.
Yours in Scouting,
Kent E. Brooten Scoutmaster Troop 474
“There are no strangers in the mountains, only friends one hasn’t met yet” Table of Contents
1 GETTING STARTED...... 3 1.1 REGISTRATION **...... 3 1.2 TROOP MEETINGS **...... 3 1.3 YEARLY SCHEDULE **...... 3 2 THE BSA ORGANIZATION...... 3 2.1 TROOP COMMITTEE **...... 3 2.2 TROOP ORGANIZATION **...... 4 2.3 PATROL ORGANIZATION **...... 5 2.4 PATROL METHOD **...... 5 2.5 INSURANCE **...... 5 2.6 TOUR PERMIT **...... 5 2.7 PERMISSION SLIPS **...... 6 2.8 MEDICAL CLEARANCE FORMS **...... 6 2.9 YOUTH PROTECTION **...... 6 2.10 SCOUT SHOP...... 6 3 TROOP 474 ORGANIZATION...... 6 3.1 TROOP RULES **...... 6 3.2 TROOP FUNDRAISING **...... 7 3.3 PATROL LEADERS’ COUNCIL (PLC)**...... 7 3.3.1 Elections...... 7 3.4 COURT OF HONOR **...... 7 3.4.1 Planning the Court of Honor...... 8 3.5 TROOP AWARDS...... 8 3.5.1 Tidy Camper Awards...... 8 3.5.2 Honor Patrol...... 8 3.5.3 Camp in the Rain Award...... 8 3.6 UNIFORMS **...... 8 3.7 SCOUT LINE **...... 9 3.8 FOLDERS **...... 9 3.9 ROSTER / PHONE LIST **...... 9 3.10 OUTING SIGN-UP BOOK **...... 9 3.11 PERMISSION SLIPS **...... 9 3.12 EMERGENCIES...... 9 3.13 PARENT PARTICIPATION **...... 9 3.13.1 Parent Participation Credits...... 9 3.13.2 Basic Leader Training...... 10 3.14 Advancement...... 10 4 OUTING EXPLANATIONS...... 10 4.1 CAR CAMP:...... 10 4.2 HIKE:...... 10 4.3 BIKE TRIP:...... 10 4.4 MT. SI:...... 10 4.5 WOOD CUTTING:...... 10 4.6 SCOUTING FOR FOOD:...... 10 4.7 ELK FEED:...... 10 4.8 MOUNTAINEERS LODGE:...... 11 4.9 IGLOO:...... 11 4.10 SNOWSHOE:...... 11 4.11 SURVIVAL HIKE:...... 11 4.12 COUNCIL CAMPING SEMINAR:...... 11 4.13 CLAIMS NIGHT:...... 11 4.14 SCOUT EXPO:...... 11 4.15 50 MILE CANOE TRIP:...... 11 4.16 CAMPOREE:...... 11 4.17 SUMMER CAMP:...... 11 4.18 TIKE HIKE:...... 12
1 4.19 THE 50 MILER:...... 12 4.20 MOUNTAIN CLIMBING:...... 12 4.20.1 Scope...... 12 4.20.2 Who May Participate...... 12 4.20.3 Training...... 12 4.20.4 Qualification...... 13 4.21 Super Outings...... 13 5 CAMPOUTS...... 13 5.1 PLANNING THE OUTING...... 13 5.2 PACK INSPECTION **...... 13 5.3 PATROL GEAR **...... 13 5.4 FOOD **...... 13 5.4.1 Grubmaster **...... 14 5.5 MONEY **...... 14 5.6 MEETING PLACE **...... 14 5.7 DRIVING **...... 14 5.8 SETTING UP CAMP **...... 14 5.9 RETURNING **...... 14 6 CAMPING GEAR...... 14 6.1 TYPICAL CAMP LIST **...... 14 6.2 WINTER CAMPING LIST **...... 15 6.3 THE 50 MILER LIST **...... 15 6.4 CLIMBING GEAR LIST **...... 15 6.5 BOOTS **...... 16 6.5.1 Fitting:...... 16 6.5.2 Sealing:...... 16 6.6 WOOL / POLAR FLEECE (PF)**...... 17 6.7 RAINGEAR **...... 17 6.8 BACKPACK **...... 17 6.19 SLEEPING BAG **...... 18 6.11 SLEEPING PAD **...... 18 6.12 STOVES **...... 18 6.14 FIRST AID KIT **...... 18 6.15 MISCELLANEOUS GEAR...... 18 Appendix A - TROOP 474 HONOR LIST...... 19 7 Appendix B...... 21 Appendix B - MAP TO ST. JAMES EPISCOPAL CHURCH...... 21 Appendix C - MAP TO MR. BROOTEN’S...... 22 Appendix D – BOOTS...... 23 Appendix E – BACKPACKS...... 24 Appendix F - SLEEPING BAGS AND SLEEPING PADS...... 25 Appendix G - STOVES AND FUEL...... 26 Appendix H - FLASHLIGHTS AND BULBS...... 27 Appendix I – RAINGEAR...... 28 Appendix J - LAYERING, UNDERWEAR, OUTERWEAR...... 29 Appendix K - WATER FILTERS AND GIARDIA...... 30 Appendix L – TENTS...... 31 8 Index...... 32
2 1 GETTING STARTED [] Read this booklet-All sections marked with **. [] Secure a registration form from an adult leader. [] Fill out the registration form (front and back). 2 THE BSA ORGANIZATION [] Submit the registration form with the registration fee. The Boy Scouts of America defines a standard [] Submit Troop annual fee (Section 3.2) organization for the structure of the troop. Recommendations are also made for the organization [] Purchase a Boy Scout Handbook. of activities. [] Secure a uniform. (Section 3.6)
2.1 TROOP COMMITTEE ** The troop committee is composed of the parents, 1.1 REGISTRATION ** the Scoutmaster and assistants, a representative of the sponsor (the church) and other interested parties Secure a Registration form from one of the adult (usually parents of boys who have gone through leaders. Registration fee is $7.00, adult leader fee is Scouting, and still want to participate). $7.00. Once a boy is registered initially, subsequent registration fees are paid by the troop. All merit The committee consists of: (see figure 1) badge counselors are required to be registered. There is no fee for registering merit badge counselors. a) The Committee Chairman who conducts the The troop updates the charter (the complete meetings and is "in charge" of all the other members. registration list) once each year. Our charter year b) The Secretary who records the minutes of each runs from February 1 to January 31. committee meeting and publishes them to all Boy's Life may be ordered at initial registration families. time. The cost is determined by the time remaining c) The Treasurer who pays the bills, collects money until charter expiration. for troop activities, etc. d) The Camping Chairman who helps coordinate the outings, especially summer camp. 1.2 TROOP MEETINGS ** e) The Uniform Chairman who holds and distributes Troop meetings are held every Tuesday from 7:30 the troop’s selection of uniforms, boots and wool p.m. to 9:00 p.m. at St. James Episcopal Church clothes. located at 24447 94th Avenue South, Kent (see f) The Transportation Chairman who arranges for appendix B). From time to time, however, the troop rides to and from outings. may take field trips, have family picnics or go g) The FOS Chairman who helps conduct the troop's swimming. Friends of Scouting (FOS) campaign (money contributed to help support the Council). h) The Woodcutting Chairman who heads up making 1.3 YEARLY SCHEDULE ** money so that the Treasurer has something to spend. Since this money making activity has usually been Each year in the early fall, the Scouts plan which cutting and selling cord wood, the name stuck. activities will take place during the coming year. The i) The IR (Institutional Representative) who troop year runs from September through August. The represents the sponsor of the troop. outings are listed on an annual schedule that is j) The Advancement Chairman who helps conduct available at most meetings to both the parents and the reviews and encourages advancement in rank of each boys. boy. The Advancement Chairman also supervises the In general, campouts are scheduled once or twice Court of Honor (see section 3.4). per month in the fall/winter and early spring. They k) The Scout Show Chairman who coordinates the happen more often in the late spring and summer. scout show booth and scout show ticket sales. There may be several other day activities scheduled l) The Scoutmaster and Assistant Scoutmasters who each month as well. advise the boy leaders in running the troop. Each scout should attend at least 5 overnight outings per year.
3 m) The Welcome Chairman who serves as a resource 2.2 TROOP ORGANIZATION ** to families new to the troop to answer questions and The troop is organized into units of boys called assist in their transition. patrols. A typical patrol has 8 boys. Several patrols make up the troop (see figure 2). Com m ittee Chairm an In 1989, the BSA started a new way of handling 10 and 11 year old scouts when they join the troop. These scouts (usually Webelos) all join together into Secretary Treasurer a patrol of other boys their age. They are counseled by a Troop Guide (an older scout appointed by the S couting Coordinator FO S Scoutmaster) and an Assistant Scoutmaster. An older group of boys within the troop comprise Com m unications Un iform s the Leadership Corps. The troop is run by the Senior Patrol Leader and an Assistant Senior Patrol Leader. W ood Cutting A dvancem ent The Assistant Senior Patrol Leader acts as "Patrol Leader" for the leadership corp. W eb P age S um m er Cam p The troop Quartermaster is responsible for troop equipment. The troop Scribe records and distributes meeting Schedule Scoutm aster plans. The troop Librarian maintains the troop library of A ssistant SM A ssistant SM books, pamphlets and merit badge books.
A ssistant SM S enior P atrol Leader Patrol Dad (Youth) Figure 1 Committee organization
Committee Meetings: Committee meetings (often called Parent’s Meetings) are usually held once per month on a day and time selected by the committee. For the past several years this has been on the second Tuesday of each month at the same time the troop meets. During the months when there is a troop Court of Honor there is no Parent Meeting. Committee meetings can, however, be held at any time convenient for the attendees. The business conducted usually centers around supporting the activities of the troop. Parents new to the troop will find this a good vehicle to voice their questions and concerns. All parents are expected to help in some way. This being the case, no one has too much to do, and committee members have fun, instead of feeling the entire burden of supporting the troop is placed on them. The minutes of these meetings are available to all parents. If a spouse does not live at the same address as the scout and would like to receive a copy of the minutes please notify the Scoutmaster.
4 Other positions are filled on an as needed basis. patrol. Since optimal size is 8 boys, 2 dens may form one patrol. S P L The Scoutmaster appoints at least one Troop Guide to help the patrol learn the Patrol Method, planning menus, how to cook, etc. P a tro l L e a d e r P a tro l L e a d e r The new boy patrol will elect a new patrol leader every month (usually at the end of the month so that he can be present at the PLC on the first Tuesday of the month to represent his patrol). A P L A P L All patrols should have a Patrol Dad or Mom. Typically this is an ASM who will focus their attention on their patrol, help the Troop Guide out G ru b m a s te r G ru b m a s te r when necessary and help insure the Patrol Method is being followed.
m e m b e r m e m b e r 2.4 PATROL METHOD ** The patrol method is the basis for meeting the three goals of scouting: building character, establishing A S P L citizenship and promoting fitness. The patrol method means that the patrol works together as an independent unit. Scouts hike, camp, cook and eat by the Patrol Method. The elected Patrol Leader S c rib e facilitates his Patrol and insures they are ready for Troop activities. See the Boy Scout handbook for more details.
L ib ra ria n 2.5 INSURANCE ** The Boy Scouts of America require each troop to have insurance (to access Council Camps). This is G a m e m a s te r medical insurance that will append the scout family's insurance. In addition, the Chief Seattle Council has liability insurance for troop leaders. Drivers of vehicles transporting scouts to/from In s tru c to r outings are required to have minimum Washington Figure 2 State liability insurance ($50,000/100,000/50,000). Troop Organization Every parent will be expected to take their turn driving.
2.3 PATROL ORGANIZATION ** 2.6 TOUR PERMIT ** The patrol is the core group of scouting. Each The mechanism to notify the Boy Scouts of patrol of 4 to 10 boys form a complete, independent America (Chief Seattle Council) of any planned troop group. The scouts work together, compete together, outing is the tour permit. The "Tour Leader" is hike together and camp together. required to fill out this form and send it, deliver it, or It is the Patrol Leader’s responsibility to inform his fax it to the Scout Office and receive reply prior to patrol of all non-standard activities such as a meeting leaving: time or location change, if special activities are to Chief Seattle Council take place or if patrol members are to bring 3120 Rainier Ave. S. something extra to a scout meeting. Seattle, WA 98144-6095 Phone # (206) 725-5200 New Scouts who join after having “bridged over” Fax # (206) 725-2862 from Webelos form a “New Boy Patrol”. Typically This accomplishes two things: 1) it provides all members from a webelos den will be in the same additional insurance for the troop outing (as well as covering the leaders with liability insurance) and, 2)
5 provides the BSA with a basis for recording actual Each and every scout is expected to live up to the nights of camping. The tour permit is also a way to ideals of Scouting in order to achieve the aims of the ensure that there are at least two adults on every program. The following may be obvious but will be outing (one 21 or older, the other 18 or older). The restated here: tour permit tells where the outing will take place, 1. Swearing and using God’s name in vain is not how long, etc. For week long outings, it will give a allowed. schedule of the PLANNED campsites each day. 2. Lying, stealing, cheating is forbidden. Thus, it can be a source of information to parents 3. “ Sheath Knives” - knives that don’t fold into should an emergency arise. themselves may not be used except by special permission of the Scoutmaster (typically 14 years old, First Class Scout). 2.7 PERMISSION SLIPS ** 4. When hiking: a) stay on trail - don’t “cut” switchbacks. BSA requires a permission slip to be filled out for b) stop at every intersection and wait for the each boy for each outing. group to assemble. c) never pass the designated leader (an older scout assigned by the tour leader). 2.8 MEDICAL CLEARANCE FORMS ** d) hike until the group stops - don’t take Some outings may require additional medical breaks independently. clearance from your physician. You will be informed e) the leader will stop every hour for a five- if additional medical clearance is needed for either minute rest and wait for the entire group to you or your son to participate. assemble. f) groups must be no smaller than two. 5. When camping: 2.9 YOUTH PROTECTION ** a) don’t “trench” tents. b) cut no live trees, branches, bushes, shrubs BSA ensures the safety of participating youth and nor carve, score or otherwise destroy adults by establishing the following guideline: vegetation. No fewer than four individuals may go on any outing, c) camp at least 100 feet from lakes, streams, two of which must be adults (one adult must be BSA etc. registered and over 21). d) never wash/rinse dishes in lakes, streams, An annual youth protection training is provided to etc. both scouts and adults in the troop. e) keep all soap at least 200 feet from lakes, streams, etc. f) use only existing fire pit - make no new 2.10 SCOUT SHOP pits. The Scout Shop is a good place to purchase g) leave no litter (even if the site had litter uniforms, accessories, Merit Badge books, upon arrival). memorabilia and camping gear (that would not h) bury human waste at least 6 inches deep and otherwise be purchased at a sporting goods store such 200 feet from water. as REI). The Chief Seattle Council Scout Shop is i) don’t bury garbage, litter, extra food, etc. located in South Seattle (by Franklin High School) at: 6. Scouts should regularly attend meetings. If 3120 Rainier Ave. S. Seattle, WA 98144-6095 prolonged absence is anticipated (going away Phone (206) 721-5945 (M-F 8:30-6, Sat 10-3) for the summer, etc.), notify Scoutmaster. Essentially, the same things can be purchased in 7. Scouts must attend at least five outings each Tacoma at the Pacific Harbor Council Scout Shop year. Only under special circumstances will located just off of Hwy. 16 from the Union Ave. exit: less participation be acceptable. The troop 1722 S. Union Ave. Tacoma, WA 98405 typically offers 50 to 60 nights of camping Phone (253) 752-7731 (M-F 8:30-5, Sat. 10-2) each year. 8. Scouts must attend a regular outing prior to attending a “snow” outing (snowshoe or igloo). 3 TROOP 474 ORGANIZATION 9. Friends, brothers & sisters, parents must make prior arrangements to attend outings. If they just “show-up” on the day of the outing (with no prior notification) they will be left behind. 3.1 TROOP RULES ** Prior notification means telling the Scoutmaster PLEASE REVIEW THESE RULES WITH or tour leader. YOUR SON:
6 10. Failing to attend the outing (after committing to The PLC plans and conducts the weekly troop do so) does not cancel the obligation of the meetings and is ultimately responsible for planning scout to pay for food that was purchased for the yearly schedule of activities. him. Notify the Scoutmaster or Tour Leader if there is to be a “no show”. 3.3.1 Elections 11. Be prompt for meetings. The SPL is elected by the boys of the troop. The 12. Be prompt in arrival for outings or call ASPL is chosen by the SPL. Elections are held Scoutmaster to notify him that you are going to periodically at the discretion of the Scoutmaster be a little late. Each patrol elects their own Patrol Leader. This boy represents the patrol at the PLC. The Patrol Leader selects an Assistant Patrol Leader and assigns 3.2 TROOP FUNDRAISING ** other duties within the patrol (see figure 2, page 4). Woodcutting activities generate the money necessary to operate the troop generally with a time commitment of two Saturdays per year. The following guidelines apply: 1. In addition to other service and fund raising 3.4 COURT OF HONOR ** activities which may occur throughout the year, The Court of Honor is a ceremony conducted by each scout is expected to contribute a minimum the boys where they receive official recognition for of 16 hours of woodcutting (family members their achievements. These include rank always welcome to participate!) advancement, merit badges, segments for certain 2. Each scout will be assessed a refundable fee per participation and other awards and badges. Parents calendar year (January 1 - December 31). This is and families are encouraged to attend this function. calculated each year depending on the Both scouts and their parents are honored for rank anticipated expenses. Typically $25-$35 each. advancement. 3. The assessment can be refunded in the following The Court of Honor is usually preceded by a manner: potluck dinner at 6:30 p.m. Each family should bring a) after eight hours of work by the scout, half either a main dish and a salad, a main dish and a can be refunded. dessert, or a main dish and a bread/appetizer. Please b) after a cumulative total of 16 hours, the bring your own plates, napkins, utensils, etc. The remaining half can be refunded. ceremony commences at 7:30 p.m. c) refund requests should be made on the The troop typically conducts a Court of Honor four appropriate form to the troop treasurer. times per year. Dates are provided in the troop d) incoming scouts and scouts who will turn 18 schedule. during that year will be assessed a pro-rated When a scout receives the rank of Eagle, he and his amount. parents are recognized at a separate Eagle Scout e) scouts who leave the troop during the year Court of Honor - held only for that scout. forfeit any monies left in their account. f) the assessment should not prevent any boy’s participation in the troop or cause 3.4.1 Planning the Court of Honor hardship on their family. Please contact If your son has been asked / volunteered to conduct Scoutmaster for assistance with your the Court of Honor, read this section. individual situation. Typically, the boys’ parents help the scout in setting up and planning the Court of Honor. The Troop Advancement Chairman will play a major role 3.3 PATROL LEADERS’ COUNCIL in assisting you. The Court of Honor planning should (PLC)** start about 2-4 weeks prior to the event. Check with the Scoutmaster to see if a guest speaker is needed The PLC meets the first Tuesday of every month at and then secure if necessary. The speaker should 6:30 p.m. prior to the troop meeting. It consists of have a presentation of interest to the entire audience the Senior Patrol Leader (SPL), Assistant Senior and the topic need not be related to scouting. Some Patrol Leader (ASPL), other troop leaders and patrol speakers from past Courts of Honor are: paramedics, leaders. The PLC is responsible for running the troop Forest Service Rangers, Order of the Arrow Dance with adult intervention as needed. All elected troop Team, Gun Club Presidents, city Mayor, School and patrol leaders are required to attend the monthly Board members, Bird Clubs (Hawks), woodcarvers, PLC meetings, however, all boys are welcome to video tape of World Jamboree, computer store participate. owners, etc.
7 The troop advancement chairman will provide a 3.5.3 Camp in the Rain Award sample program and agenda. The scout conducting While if often might drizzle or rain on an outing, the Court of Honor needs to prepare the printed occasionally, it will POUR. For those rare instances, program and ensure that ample programs are the "DON'T COMPLAIN, CAMP IN THE RAIN" available at the ceremony. In advance, the scout award might be presented. should ask parents to present the awards, boys to This award is also a "troop only" award. conduct the various ceremonies (flag, candle, etc.), and boys to report on the various activities that have transpired since the last Court of Honor. He and/or his parents should also ensure that coffee is made and 3.6 UNIFORMS ** that there is a "children's drink" (typically fruit drink The official troop uniform is a short sleeve shirt, from McDonald's - reserve yellow container well in short pants, knee socks, and neckerchief. Scouts advance). The troop will reimburse the scout/parents receive the official silk-screened Troop neckerchief for incidental expenses. The Troop Advancement when obtaining the rank of Tenderfoot or when Chairman is responsible for detailing the earning their first rank advancement / merit badge is advancements to be presented as well as securing the transferring from another troop.. necessary badges/awards. The scout should make Uniforms MUST be worn to all scout meetings. sure the room and kitchen are cleaned up at the end Uniforms should also be worn to Summer Camp, of the event. Camporee, and other activities where the scout is in public. Uniforms can be purchased from the Scout Shop 3.5 TROOP AWARDS (see section 2.10). The troop often has a supply of uniforms to be used at no cost, contact the Uniform From time to time, certain special awards may be Chairman for more information. presented:
3.5.1 Tidy Camper Awards 3.7 SCOUT LINE ** The Tidy Camper Award is a special recognition (253) 639-9563. The Troop provides a recorded for scouts in Troop 474. It is not an official BSA message of upcoming scout outings and pertinent award and cannot be worn on the scout uniform. information that can accessed 24 hours a day. This award can only be earned while backpacking. To earn the tidy camper award, every member of the patrol must have a "perfect" campsite for the entire duration of the outing. A "perfect" campsite is 3.8 FOLDERS ** defined as one with absolutely no litter at any time Each family has a folder in the file box usually during the outing, meals cooked properly, dishes found on the back table at troop meetings. washed properly, gear always in order. Announcements, schedules, Parent Meeting minutes, The intent of this award is to promote camping etc. are made available to parents via the folders. excellence. If the patrol wants to "earn" this award, they should notify the Scoutmaster at the beginning of the outing. He is the only leader who can award it. 3.9 ROSTER / PHONE LIST ** Current boy and adult leader rosters are updated 3.5.2 Honor Patrol regularly and are placed in the folders. Extra copies The "Honor Patrol" is a plaque that may be are usually available at troop meetings. awarded at the quarterly Court of Honor to a patrol if it has shown exemplary patrol cohesiveness. The potential patrol would regularly hold patrol meetings, 3.10 OUTING SIGN-UP BOOK ** each member would have an assigned task Boys and adults sign up to attend outings in a 3- (grubmaster, hikemaster, assistant patrol leader, ring binder usually found on the back table at troop patrol leader, etc.) and would work well as a group. meetings. Each outing is listed by month and is A patrol who was awarded this honor would be found found under the corresponding tab in the binder. as one of the outstanding patrols at the district Boys should be signed up to attend outings no later camporee. They would be holding their own hikes than the Tuesday night before the weekend outing, and members would be quickly advancing. This however, some outings have group size limitations - award is also a "troop only" award. first come, first served. Please cross off your name if you find you are unable to attend.
8 3.11 PERMISSION SLIPS ** participation but do not count as "nights of camping". So every night of camping accumulates a "1". ".034" Once again, a permission slip is required for each indicates the "Parent Credit" . The purpose of this is boy for each outing. These are usually available the to show Parent Participation (and therefore support) Tuesday prior to the outing or at the time you drop in scouting activities. The system works roughly like your boy off. If you will not be dropping off your this: boy, be sure you have filled out a permission slip 01 for driving (only) to/from an outing ahead of time. ANY BOY WITHOUT A SIGNED 01 for a day activity (hike, PERMISSION SLIP WILL NOT BE ALLOWED TO wood cutting) ATTEND THE OUTING. 02 per night spent with the troop 02 for long drives (>4 hrs one way) The purpose of this credit system is to show at a 3.12 EMERGENCIES glance which parents actively participate and support YOU MUST NOTIFY THE TOUR LEADER scouting - and which don't. While the system isn't EACH AND EVERY TIME YOUR SON perfect - it is a good indicator. "64.082" shows a ATTENDS AN OUTING if your son has any special strong commitment by the parent(s). "32.016" is medical problems (asthma, hypoglycemia, etc.) or good, while "78.002" probably shows the parent(s) requires special medication, are expecting to get something out of the program All medications should be given to the Tour Leader without putting anything into it (although there are at the beginning of each outing. exceptions). Several of the adult leaders have advanced first aid and CPR certificates. 3.13.2 Basic Leader Training All parents, and especially those who hold leadership positions in the troop, are encouraged to 3.13 PARENT PARTICIPATION ** attend the Basic Leader Training Course offered by Parents are invited to attend any outing. Almost all the Council twice yearly. The best way to understand outings are manageable for an 11 year old, certainly what your boy will be going through is to experience parents can do them. (One exception is the mountain it yourself. This course will provide you the climbing program see section 4.20). Parents should opportunity to learn and experience the Boy Scout tell the Tour Leader if they plan to attend. Your other program first hand. children may also attend (but only with you) - please check with the Tour Leader before bringing them so 3.14 Advancement that you know what difficulty to expect, and so that Ranks are outlined in the Scout Handbook. the tour leader knows how many drivers/riders to In general, new Scouts should focus their attention on plan for. Mothers have often attended without their earning Tenderfoot, Second Class and First Class. spouses (and occasionally without their son). The Once they are First Class, Scouts should start "Igloo" outing, for example, is one of the most investigating the merit badge program. (There are popular outings. often “merit badge” clinics and opportunities to earn Parents are discouraged from eating with their merit badges at summer camp. Don’t miss these sons as the scouts are encouraged to practice the opportunities. The point is that new Scouts typically "Patrol Method". Parents usually camp and eat need to earn the first 3 ranks first, then work on merit together. The only exception is the Senior Patrol badges.) Leader who often eats with the Scoutmaster / Tour The process is: Leader. The parents usually practice the Patrol 1) Select the merit badge of interest Method as well by assigning a grubmaster for the 2) Secure the merit badge book (the troop has a outing and sharing such duties as waterman, library from which you can borrow), the local firebuilder or stove-starter, cook, dishwasher, etc. just library has them available to check out, they are as the scouts are expected to do. available for purchase through the Scout Shop Please leave your pets at home. (section 2.10). To get the most out of the merit badge, you’ll need to read the booklet 3.13.1 Parent Participation Credits completely. When looking at the "days & nights" camping 3)Requirements and worksheets can be records published periodically, you might see a downloaded from www.meritbadge.com number such as "78.034". What does this mean? 4)Together with the Advancement chairman, select The primary number "78" indicates the scout has a merit badge counselor and fill out a blue accumulated 78 nights of camping. Only actual merit badge card. nights count, day activities are recorded for
9 5)Prior to starting any actual work on the merit and feed the animals. Sometimes there are big horn badge, contact the counselor and ask him/her sheep and deer. Sleeping arrangements announced. how they would like to proceed. Some want you to come in for a visit prior to starting , others want to see you when you’re done. 4.8 MOUNTAINEERS LODGE: 6)Never visit a counselor alone. Take a buddy Ski lodge owned by Mountaineers, on the east side who’s working on the merit badge with you, of Snoqualmie pass, which we rent Friday night and take your parent or friend. Remember the rule Saturday. Each attendee pays a fee. Access to night of three. skiing and sledding area. Rustic cabin with room for about 80-100. A large snowcat takes us in. Those who can ski are towed by a long rope behind the 4 OUTING EXPLANATIONS snowcat. Others ride. This is a family activity. We Below is a list of many of the "typical" outings: cook for the whole group in their kitchen.
4.1 CAR CAMP: 4.9 IGLOO: Car Camp means drive in and set up camp - no Backpacking trip. Troop hikes in less than one backpacking. mile and builds igloos and sleeps in them overnight. This can't be the boy's first backpacking trip. Usually held at Paradise on Mt. Rainier. Drivers 4.2 HIKE: must have chains in their vehicle. Popular outing. Families can spend the night if they are fully Overnight. Usually 3-8 mile backpacking trip. equipped, or they may come up for the day. Special Standard backpacking gear required, see section 6.1. gear required, see section 6.2.
4.3 BIKE TRIP: 4.10 SNOWSHOE: Boys bike 5 - 25 miles. Helmets required. Gear is Backpack trip, usually for older boys. Troop hikes put in trucks/cars and delivered to campsite. with snowshoes a few miles. Tent camp. This can't Overnight outing. be the boy's first backpacking trip. Special gear required, see section 6.2. 4.4 MT. SI: Day hike up Mt. Si near North Bend. About 3500' 4.11 SURVIVAL HIKE: gain in about 4 miles. Bring rain gear, sack lunch Overnight backpacking trip. Outing in conjunction and water. with Wilderness Survival Merit Badge.
4.5 WOOD CUTTING: 4.12 COUNCIL CAMPING SEMINAR: Day activity. Cut cordwood for troop An all day seminar on how to plan and conduct a moneymaker. Bring/wear work clothes, gloves, rain week long outing. Leadership and Patrol Leaders gear, sack lunch, water, tools. Family activity. invited/encouraged to attend. Others (parents included) always welcome. Fee. 4.6 SCOUTING FOR FOOD: Day activity, (two Saturdays). First week, 4.13 CLAIMS NIGHT: distribution of bags and second week, pick up of At council office. Stake our claim for summer food. Wear Scout uniform. Parents needed to drive. camp, date and campsite. At least one adult needed to attend. SPL welcome but scout attendance not necessary 4.7 ELK FEED: Car Camp. As many as 5000 elk come down out of the mountains during heavy snows and are fed by the 4.14 SCOUT EXPO: Dept. of Wildlife. Scouts get to ride on the hay truck Troop sets up a booth showing some scout craft or skill. Day activity.
10 4.19 THE 50 MILER: Week long hike in the Cascades, Olympics, etc. 4.15 50 MILE CANOE TRIP: Backpack. Must have done several preparation hikes. Week long outing on a river and / or lake. Gear in Typically 6-10 miles per day. Parents often attend, as canoe. Camp in sites along the way. May be more do some families. The hike may be more than 50 than 50 miles. miles. The "50 Miler" is the best activity the troop con- ducts to build scouting skills. Weekend outings, 4.16 CAMPOREE: summer camp and day hikes are valuable, but for most boys, the "50 Miler" is the premier activity of All troops in Green River District (Kent, Renton) the year. Every boy should eagerly anticipate this car camp and compete in scout skills. Each year the activity. For parents it has proven to be an equally Green River District conducts an outing where each exciting experience. Many call it "relaxing" - the patrol competes in games and contests (the biggest decisions to be made are where to put the tent Camporee). This is an excellent opportunity for your and what to cook for dinner, a welcome change from scout and his patrol to show off their skills. Usually the pressures of daily living and hectic careers. parents are invited to view the games, contests, and Each year the troop participates in a "50 Miler". campfire (and of course - camp with the troop). “50 Miler” is a generic term referring to an outing where 50 miles are hiked or paddled over a period of at least 5 days and 4 nights. For the past dozen years, 4.17 SUMMER CAMP: the troop has been hiking popular loops in the Each summer, the troop participates in Summer Olympics or hiking sections of the Pacific Crest Trail Camp. This is a week long encampment usually at in the Cascades. As stated earlier, 50 Miler is generic one of the local Council Camps (Camp Parsons on to mean any hike that covers at least 50 miles. Hoods Canal, Camp Brinkley near Monroe, However, since pickup spots are never exactly 50 sometimes Camp Shepherd between Greenwater and miles from where the trail starts, "50 Milers" range Crystal Mountain Ski Resort). Sometimes other from 50 to 80 miles in length taking from 6 to 8 days. Council Camps are used. Usually held in July or Nearly anyone can participate in a 50 Miler: 11 August. This is not a hiking trip, it's much more year old boys, 55 year old parents, even families (but "plush". Usually cabins with bunk beds are provided, no pets please). Prior to the 50 miler, several condi- cooking is done by the Camp Staff. The main tioning hikes are required. Usually, there are 4 or 5 purpose of summer camp is for the boys to earn Merit offered (2 overnights, 2 or 3 day hikes). You should Badges, to have fun and participate in swimming, expect to attend at least 1 overnight and depending on archery, rifle range, etc. conditioning, 1 or 2 of the day hikes. The more out The fee for summer camp is about $150 (1998). of shape, the more outings should be planned for. The troop and the council have financial assistance Boys cook and eat by the Patrol Method. available. No boy should miss out on an outing if the Reasonable menus can be planned for $35-$50 per only reason is that he (his family) doesn't have the person per week. It is not necessary to purchase money (this goes for all outings). The money is freeze dried food for the entire week. Menu planning available, but it won't appear unless the Scoutmaster, is usually done by the older boys. the Committee Chairman, the Treasurer or someone A "Pack Inspection" is conducted by the knows about it. Please ask. Scoutmaster prior to the outing. Packs should be Two adults are required to be in attendance. between 1/4 and 1/3 the weight of the scout (less the There is no fee for the adults. If you would like to first day's food). For a 120 lb. boy, his backpack attend summer camp, please contact the Scoutmaster should not exceed 40 lbs. More is not better. or the Camping Chairman. Typical distances are 6 to 10 miles per day (only rarely more than 12) and usually less than 3000' elevation gain per day (only rarely more than 4000'). 4.18 TIKE HIKE: Usually on the trail between 8 to 8:30, lunch at noon, in camp between 2:00 and 4:30. Time for looking, A 4-5 day hike offered to new boys of the troop to photography, wading in mountain lakes, watching the give them a concentrated opportunity to develop wildlife. scout skills and work towards First Class rank Special gear required, see section 6.3. advancement. See gear list section 6.1.
11 4.20 MOUNTAIN CLIMBING: in 1:45 with a 35 lb. backpack (1:30 goal). 3) James Hill: Jason St. to Hilltop St. in less than 3 Climb of a major peak (Mt. Baker, Mt. Adams, Mt. minutes - running. Rainier, etc.). Restricted attendance. 4) 10 miles on the track at 7:30/mile, 40 miles per week 4.20.1 Scope Special gear required, see section 6.4. The reason for conducting training in mountain climbing is to maintain the interest of the older scouts 4.21 Super Outings and to provide an activity that these scouts find chal- Every few years the troop undertakes a “Super lenging. While some skills that could be used for Outing”. These have included rock climbing are taught (belaying and rappelling) 1) Chilicoot Trail in Alaska / British Columbia and the climbing is focused on glacier travel. The backpack trip in the Yukon (1993) successful scout will have developed a high level of 2) 140 mile Bike and Hike on the island of Kauai, fitness, climbed two major peaks (usually includes Hawaii (1995) Mt. Rainier), and developed through this process an 3) 8 day Canoe trip in Minnesota / Ontario (1998) understanding of his own limits thus raising his 4) 200 mile bike Historic C&O Canal in Maryland, confidence and self esteem. Finally, if that's not Tour DC (2000) reason enough, it's a shame to live so close to such an 5) Trek at Philmont (planned for 2002) incredible mountain (Mt. Rainier) and never climb it.
4.20.2 Who May Participate There is no age restriction although usually it will be scouts over 14. In order to participate, every 5 CAMPOUTS candidate must prove to the climbing leaders they have achieved a minimum level of fitness (described 5.1 PLANNING THE OUTING below in Section 4.20.3). Preference is then given in the following order: The location of the outing is planned by the adult 1) Scouts leaders, the boy leaders or both. The designated 2) Adults who have participated before and are "Tour Leader" has veto power (and often has "experienced" "suggestions" for suitable locations). While it isn't 3) Parents who actively participate in troop always practical, the troop tries to pick "new" activities locations for each outing. Campouts are scheduled 4) Parents or siblings of scouts once or twice per month in the fall/winter and early 5) Other "experienced" climbers (Mountaineers spring. They happen more often in the late spring "Basic" or equivalent) and summer. It is not the scope of this activity to instruct and A "typical" outing would start by being scheduled guide friends and neighbors to the summit or by the PLC (Patrol Leader's Council) in August (of Rainier. Don't ask. each year). Most of the outings for the year can be found on the "troop schedule" which runs from September to August. The outing is discussed by the 4.20.3 Training leaders at the Parent’s Committee meeting at which After many years of observing teenagers, it can be time the parents can get further details about the categorically stated that no matter what medal they outing. won in the state track meet, or how good they were To develop leadership skills of the boy leaders, on the high school soccer team, they are not in good they are assigned as much responsibility as they can enough shape to comfortably climb Mt. Rainier. To handle. The boys may orchestrate the entire outing, comfortably climb at a rate of 1000 vertical feet per or may only pick the "type" of outing, with the hour, hour after hour requires the climber to have the remaining details determined by the adult leaders. It fitness equivalent to completing a marathon in around is dependent on the stage of development of the three hours. Climbing requires a commitment to members of the PLC. training. Many climb with other groups who are not in proper physical condition. They put the safety of their entire group at risk. 5.2 PACK INSPECTION ** Particular outings require special equipment and 4.20.4 Qualification thus a "pack inspection" is necessary. This usually Some yardsticks to measure yourself: happens the Wednesday or Thursday prior to the 1) 3:15 marathon (3:00 hour goal) outing. 2) Mt. Si: parking lot to the base of the "Haystack"
12 5.3 PATROL GEAR ** 5.5 MONEY ** Prior to an outing, each patrol leader should make Other than food, there are usually no other sure that the patrol is equipped with enough tents (see expenses for outings, however, it is always wise to Appendix L) for everyone to sleep in, a "dining fly" send you son with a few dollars for that occasional (a lightweight tarp - usually nylon under which to eat stop for fast food on the way home. while it's raining), one or two cooking stoves, cooking pots/pans, and other items as a particular outing necessitates. 5.6 MEETING PLACE ** The "typical" outing will leave Mr. Brooten’s house, (see appendix C), either Friday early evening 5.4 FOOD ** or Saturday morning. The key word here is LEAVE. On the Tuesday before the outing, the scout You should plan to arrive at the meeting spot ten should have decided if he will attend the outing minutes prior to the departure time. If you are (parents should also know if they will attend, drive driving, fill your car with gas prior to arriving. It is to/from, etc.). At the Tuesday meeting prior to the quite inconsiderate to have 20 or 30 boys and adults outing, scouts from each patrol will select a waiting for that last boy (or driver) to show. Please "grubmaster" to purchase the food and the patrol call even if you will be a few minutes late. plans a menu. BE ON TIME !!! Each boy is responsible to pay for his share of the grub, typically $4-$7 per weekend outing. When you drop your son off for an outing, be prepared to pay the grubmaster for the food! If your son commits to attending the outing, and then withdraws 5.7 DRIVING ** after the food has been purchased, you are still Every parent is expected to do his/her fair share in responsible to pay for your son's share of the food supporting the troop. You will often be asked to costs. drive (see also "insurance" section 2.6). As a general It is inconsiderate to expect the grubmaster (or his guideline, if your car holds four boys (in addition to family) to pay for the food because your son failed to yourself) you should expect to drive every other attend. In the same manner, it is unacceptable to call outing (either deliver or pick up). Please note, BSA the grubmaster Friday night before the outing and requires every passenger to have a seat belt (and use inform him that your son has decided to attend (also, them). Please ensure that your passengers are there may be no "extra" seats for unplanned scouts - "buckled up". If your spouse wants to come along for or brothers, friends, etc.). the ride, and you can only hold 2 scouts, you should plan to drive every time (up or back). 5.4.1 Grubmaster ** The troop will reimburse you for gas if you so If it is your son’s turn to be the grubmaster, please desire. Please submit the receipt to the Troop read this section: Treasurer prior to/at the Parents Committee meeting. Most new scouts will need some guidance from a As of this writing (1998) the IRS allows $0.12 per parent the first few times they are grubmaster. Your mile deduction (if you itemize) while driving on son should come home with a list of menus and he outings (sorry, to/from meetings doesn't count). will most likely need some help to determine It is the intent to plan outings so that the distance appropriate portions and to shop for the food. But to pick-up/deliver does not require an extraordinary please keep your help to a minimum as this is a amount of time, however, it's also difficult to plan an learning experience for the entire patrol. outing with less than two hours each way. The grubmaster also needs to consider and obtain cooking utensils, pots/pans and seasonings/ condiments that will be needed to prepare and enjoy 5.8 SETTING UP CAMP ** the food. Scouts will camp, cook and conduct themselves by The grubmaster is ultimately responsible for the "Patrol Method". Each patrol camps within the collecting money for the food costs. An organized troop area, but apart enough to be a separate group. grubmaster may want to call his patrol members The days of "cutting bough beds", "trenching tents" before the outing to let them know how much money and "making lean-to's" are gone forever. Creating to bring. new campsites is almost always forbidden. If fires are allowed, they can only be built in existing fire pits, no new ones are to be established. Campsites
13 are usually located at least 100 feet from the water ****************************************** (lake, creek, river, etc.). * A PERSONAL NOTE FROM THE SCOUTMASTER * The above requirements are not negotiable. I have 5.9 RETURNING ** learned by experience that wool/PF MUST be worn to insure the health and safety of your son. At the time you drop off your son for an outing, Your son MUST HAVE WOOL/POLARFLEECE you should ask the Tour Leader about the expected CLOTHES TO ATTEND THE WINTER return time. Plan to pick up your son at Mr. OUTINGS, THE 50 MILER AND ANY CLIMB. Brooten’s house unless otherwise informed. Boys ****************************************** typically call home upon return. If times change drastically, a contact person will be informed. 6.3 THE 50 MILER LIST ** 6 CAMPING GEAR Personal Equipment [] wool/PF pants, shirt, hat, socks (section 6.6) [] WATERPROOF raingear (section 6.7) [] hiking boots (section 6.5) 6.1 TYPICAL CAMP LIST ** [] backpack (section 6.8) Below is a list of gear required for a typical [] sleeping bag & sleeping pad (sections 6.9, 6.10) backpack or car camp outing: [] personal first aid kit (section 6.12) [] boots (section 6.5) [] flash light with extra bulb and extra batteries [] rain gear (section 6.7) (see appendix H) [] backpack (section 6.8) [] knife, fork, spoon, cup, plate [] sleeping bag (inside a stuff bag inside a plastic [] matches and candle bag) (section 6.9) [] extra clothes [] sleeping pad (section 6.10) [] extra food (at least 1 day per boy) [] personal first aid kit (section 6.12) [] 2 one liter polybottles (or 1 two liter polybottle) [] flashlight with extra batteries and extra bulb no canteens -"big-mouth" polybottles are (see appendix H) preferred [] knife, fork, spoon, cup, plate [] "mole-skin" & scissors [] matches and candle [] personal toiletries [] extra clothes [] toilet paper (white) and small spade or shovel [] extra food [] pocket knife [] soap & towel [] sunscreen and sun glasses Optional equipment includes: [] compass [] Scout book [] gaitors Patrol Equipment: [] stove [] tents with groundcloth [] map and compass [] stoves & fuel (1 1/2 liter white gas per boy per 5 [] camera days) The Scout uniform may be required for some [] pots / pans outings (when in public). [] soap, towels, SOS pads [] dining fly and cord [] cords to hang food 6.2 WINTER CAMPING LIST ** [] water filter (if not boiling)
For winter outings, in addition to the “typical camp Optional Personal equipment: list”, the following is mandatory: [] #10 tin (3 lb. coffee can or the like) [] ax [] wool/polar fleece (PF) pants [] map(s) of area [] wool/PF shirt [] camera and extra film [] wool/PF socks [] extra rope [] wool/PF hat [] paperback book [] wool/PF gloves [] extra trail snacks [] rubberized gloves (Igloo outing) [] pad and pencil [] waterproof ground cloth (igloo outing) [] cards [] sunglasses and sunscreen (suggest PF>35) [] towel [] fishing pole
14 is that they are already "broken in" and they typically Optional Patrol Equipment: will conform to the foot faster than "new" boots (or [] extra stove perhaps it is more accurate to say that the foot will [] Scoutmaster's chair conform faster to the boot). Once the scout has attained his maximum height, his foot size probably Don't Bring: won't change and it's time to consider purchasing [] radio / tape player / walkman / fireworks "new" boots. In 1998, a good pair of new boots ranged in cost from $100 (on sale) to >$200. 6.4 CLIMBING GEAR LIST ** At the end of this booklet is additional information on boots published by REI (see appendix D). Rather The typical gear required for a climb (in addition to than being redundant, this section will only point out standard camping gear - Section 6.1) is: the salient topics. Rubber boots ("insulated rubber boots") are not [] crampons with straps (12 point) adequate - they have little or no support and are unac- [] ice ax with wrist strap ceptable except to be used as extra weight when [] sit harness conditioning on Mt. Si. [] locking biner "Work boot" (high top leather boots from Redwing, [] 5 oval or D biners etc.) may be acceptable foot support for most hikes. [] 2 prussic ropes Older scouts may be carrying as much as 65 pounds [] chest loop in their packs, in this case, the side support to the [] 2 extra loops ankles offered by this soft leather won't do. [] head lamp Workboots are unacceptable for use with crampons [] 2 large mouth polybottles (1 Liter each) (while mountain climbing - see section 6.4). [] glacier glasses "Climbing boots" (either leather or plastic) offer [] sun block (factor >24) excellent support (both arch and ankle), and are quite acceptable for both hiking and climbing. "3/4 steel In addition the climber may want: shank" is preferred over "full shank". If the parent can afford this type of boot for each iteration, they [] avalanche beacon should purchase these. [] camera tripod for ice ax [] small camera [] ice screws 6.5.1 Fitting: [] rescue rope loop (made from prussic rope) Boots are usually worn with two pair of socks [] rappel ring (typically a polypropylene first sock and a wool outer [] helmet - depends on route sock). Clearly, boots should be fitted with two pair of socks. Climbing boots should fit so that when they are on (and tied) the toe does not rub against the end 6.5 BOOTS ** of the boot. This can be tested by standing on a steep incline (such as is available on a shoe fitters stool) Boots are essential items and care should be taken and trying to "push" the toes to the end of the boot to find a pair that will be adequate for the anticipated with one's weight. The heel should be tight enough activities. Parents may be reluctant to purchase not to rub on the heel of the boot. Don't buy boots "good" boots in anticipation of their son growing out that the scout will "grow into and have room for next of them the following year. This is a valid concern, year". Serious blisters and discomfort will result nevertheless, "good" boots are necessary to the safety from improperly fitting boots. and comfort of your son. In only rare cases will "tennis shoes" be allowed (or adequate). The troop has a supply of boots that are available 6.5.2 Sealing: for use (or sometimes for purchase - depending on All leather boots should be sealed. Waterproof the circumstances). Usually, they are of good quality boots mean dry feet, dry feet mean warm feet, warm and are donated to the troop when their owner’s feet feet make happy campers. Cold feet are simply no longer fit. These boots are usually free with the miserable. Cold wet feet lead to cold wet feet with understanding that they will be returned to the troop blisters which are VERY miserable. Much attention when they are no longer needed. Contact the must be paid to making the leather waterproof. Uniform Chairman for more information. Waterproofing starts at the "Welt" or the seam that A second alternative to purchasing new boots is to joins the upper part of the boot to the sole. Welt purchase used boots (no surprise there). REI (see sealer penetrates the stitching. It is typically the phone book for listing of stores nearby) has a supply consistency of nail polish (but not nearly so brittle). of used boots. The advantage of securing used boots
15 It is effective only if applied before any other sealer stores also have a good selection (again for adult to new boots. sizes) and are usually considerably less expensive. "Spray Silicon" has been found to be nearly useless There are several "Thrift" stores, St. Vincent DePaul in waterproofing the leather. This leaves two types of stores, and second hand stores where high quality sealers: oil-based and wax-based. Oil-based sealant (Pendleton shirts, etc.) can be purchased for only a ("Hubbard Boot Grease") should only be used on few dollars. leather finished with an oil-based tanning process You will not find wool/PF clothes at these "Thrift" (most these days are wax-based). Putting an oil- stores if you start looking the Thursday before the based sealant on wax-based leather may cause the campout. You should start looking months in leather to stretch (sometimes a lot). REI sells a wax- advance. based sealant ("Snowseal") that is quite adequate. Another alternative is to sew wool/PF clothes using Several other types are available (and also more a conventional pattern (it is suggested that you use expensive e.g. "mink oil"). nylon instead of cotton for the pockets, facing and To put the sealer on requires time and patience waistband). You might borrow wool/PF clothes from (failing to put it on with time and patience probably the older scouts. Finally, the troop Uniform will result in wet feet). The method that seems to Chairman may have a selection of wool/PF clothes. work the best is as follows:
1) Heat the family oven to "low". 6.7 RAINGEAR ** 2) Remove the boot laces. Rain Gear is mandatory for all outings. 3) Put the boots in the center of the oven keeping Rain Gear is defined as a WATERPROOF jacket away from top/bottom of oven elements. and WATERPROOF pants. A poncho is 4) Bake until warm. unacceptable. Plastic rain gear is inadequate (clear 5)With newspaper spread all over the kitchen plastic "hunter's rain gear"). floor, remove one boot and spread wax all over WATERPROOF is defined as the ability to the boot with fingers. permanently shed water. 6) Exchange boots and continue with step 5. A good test is to stand in the shower wearing the 7) Repeat this process approximately 20 times until rain gear over a cotton shirt. If after 20 minutes, the boots are well saturated with wax. cotton shirt is wet, the rain gear isn't waterproof. 8) Repeat applications periodically Nylon jackets are seldom waterproof. Good rain gear can be purchased from REI for Experience with hundreds of boys with wet feet has about $20 per piece. This is a reasonable cloth proven that waxing the boots only a few times is not backed vinyl material with some durability that is still adequate. Experience with hundreds of boys has also flexible when cold. Excellent rain gear can be proven that they don't believe the above statement purchased for around $200 (Gortex). Coated rip-stop until they have had cold wet feet from only a few nylon is a very good compromise, comfortable, applications. This observation is offered free of durable and at a cost of about $40 (watch the charge in the comfort of your own home. The scout newspaper for sales). (Appendix I at the end of this may have a different observation during an outing booklet offers additional information on backpacks). depending on the time and patience used in preparing his boots. 6.8 BACKPACK ** 6.6 WOOL / POLAR FLEECE (PF)** A good backpack is essential for comfort while hiking. Care should be taken in backpack selection. Wool and PF are the only fibers that continue to A common mistake is not with the pack, but with insulate when wet. Cotton, when wet, causes the the choice of hip belts. There are two common body to loose heat at a rate 30 times that of bare skin. types: Consequently, wool/PF clothing is required for all 1) two straps that are pinned to the pack frame, winter outings, for the "50 Miler" and for all 2) a padded hip belt that circles the waist and climbing. Experienced scouts will bring wool/PF is attached to the pack with straps. clothes on a regular outing over any other type. Style #2 evenly distributes the weight of the pack So where can you get wool/PF clothes? Camping onto the hips. Style #1 is cheap and ineffective. Any stores like REI carry a fair selection of wool/PF salesperson that would sell you such a pack is clothes. They have an excellent selection for older ignorant of what is required. boys and adults but only a fair selection for 11 year The REI "Long Trail" is probably the best choice old boys. for a first backpack. Don't try to pick it out yourself, One suggestion is to try women's size small or ask a salesperson for help. The backpack must be extra small. "Army Surplus" and "Navy Surplus"
16 "Fit". (the REI salespeople are competent and won't 6.14 FIRST AID KIT ** sell you junk). (Appendix E at the end of this booklet Each scout should carry a personal first aid kit. offers additional information on backpacks). A typical kit should include:
[] 2 4" X 4" sterile gauze pads 6.19 SLEEPING BAG ** [] 4 2" X 2" sterile gauze pads Sleeping bags come in a wide variety of styles and [] an assortment of Band-Aids types. Typically, each scout will need a "4 Season" [] a triangular bandage bag (i.e. usable 4 seasons of the year). Bags are rated [] scissors for a minimum temperature. Unfortunately, this [] moleskin rating does not take into account the metabolism of [] an antibiotic cream the scout. One scout in a -10 degree bag may still be [] first aid tape cold at +15 weather while another may be [] gauze roll comfortable at +10 degrees with a +20 degree bag. [] aspirin (Appendix F provides additional information of [] matches sleeping bag selection.) [] needle [] tweezers
6.11 SLEEPING PAD ** Each patrol should have a more complete first aid kit and each Tour Leader will also have a more In order to insulate the scout from the ground, a complete kit. sleeping pad is necessary. Listed below are several types of sleeping pads.
A) insulite, open cell / closed cell 6.15 MISCELLANEOUS GEAR B) "Therm-a-rest" You may wish to include a camera, extra film, a C) foam rubber light book to read, a star chart, playing cards, a D) air mattress lantern, rain fly/dining fly, sit pads, backpack cover, E) cots sewing kit, whistle, extra cord/rope, extra garbage bags, fishing pole, telescope, etc. However, all this The main purpose of the pad is insulation, the weighs extra, and has to be carried, sometimes for secondary purpose is padding. Consequently, closed miles uphill. cell foam is more than adequate for most scouts. Radios, Walkmans, electronic games, fireworks, Adults may wish to consider a "Therm-a-rest" that etc. should be left at home. also provides for extra comfort - the ground seems to get harder as one gets older. Foam rubber is not advised as it acts as a sponge, soaking up water, getting the sleeping bag wet which results in a cold wet scout. Air mattresses don't provide very good insulation but do provide good padding. An air mattress that won't leak is both heavy and expensive. Most experi- enced scouts find an air mattress unreliable. Cots will find little use while backpacking. (Appendix F provides additional information of sleeping bag selection.)
6.12 STOVES ** Most cooking is done utilizing a backpacking stove and there are several types available. Eventually each scout should have his own stove but, since they can be expensive, parents may want to consider giving them as gifts for birthdays or Christmas. Appendix G provides a great deal of additional information and should be consulted prior to purchasing a stove.
17 Appendix A - TROOP 474 HONOR LIST
EAGLE SCOUTS 1978 Mike Selig 1979 Zack Eckblad 1974 Dean Bradley Landis 1979 Jeff Jones 1978 Michael Selig 1979 Bill Esser 1979 Jeffrey Ray Jones 1980 Steve Fairbanks Michael Zachery Eckblad 1982 Mike Johnson 1983 Eric Lynn Nelson 1982 David Johnson 1984 Michael Scott Johnson 1982 Eric Nelson David Robert Johnson 1983 Phil Stewart Willis Edward Gaines II 1984 Brian Church 1985 Brian James Church 1984 Mark Wilhelm Mark Edward Wilhelm 1985 Willis Gaines 1986 Aran Patrick Murphy 1985 Derek Pagenkopf Greg Matthew Brown 1986 Peter Eckblad 1987 Peter Martin Eckblad 1986 Brett Percival Derek Andrew Pagenkopf 1986 Greg Brown Geoffrey Scott Heller 1987 Geoff Heller Mark David Heller 1987 Scott Schell 1988 Arlen Edward Harris 1988 Jon Heller 1989 Evan Raymond Harris 1989 Evan Harris Christopher Miles Drake 1989 Mike Doughty Michael John Doughty 1990 John Wilhelm 1991 Scott David Schell 1991 Brian Haderlie Christopher Michael Hafner 1991 Chris Hafner Kevin Lee Horne 1992 Matt Percival 1992 Johnathan Daniel Heller 1992 Steven Rosencrantz 1993 Aaron Duane Hughes 1993 Scott Anderson Stephen Phillip Ross 1994 Jeff Hulse Stephen Dennis Rosencrantz 1995 Jon Bashford 1994 Yuri Anthony Marichich 1996 Josh Herring Matthew Martin Percival 1997 Devin Olsen 1996 Matthew James Ruotsi 1998 Terry Lindberg Brian M. Gilbert 1999 Ian Hanzeli 1997 David Johnson Watson 2000 Chris Crowley Jeffery Alan. Hulse Ciaran Ninenow Joshua Lee Herring 2001 Cameron Cowles David Michi Stake Eric David Heutchy 1999 Mark Thomas Hanson 2000 Ian G. MacLeod Hanzeli Shawn P. Ruotsi David Allen Lee Gabriel Robert Maricich Terry Dean Lindberg Daniel Satake 2001 Joshua Y Hwang
SENIOR PATROL LEADERS
3 RELIGIOUS AWARDS EXTRA MILE AWARD
Evan Harris Dorothy Landis Peter Eckblad Dan Landis Scott Schell Dan Percival Derek Pagenkopf Ken Horne Chris Drake Kent Brooten 1997 David Lee Dennis Sticke 2001 Mark Hanson Suzanne Heller
SCOUTMASTERS COUPLES AWARD
1969 Dick Gerber Norm & Tovi Harriss Dan Landis Bob Fairbanks Dick Loren DISTRICT AWARD OF MERIT Danny Perry 1976 Dan Landis Kent Brooten Dave Eckblad 1977 Kent Brooten SILVER BEAVER
WOOD BADGE Kent Brooten
Mark D. Hanson Kent Brooten
4 7 Appendix B
Appendix B - MAP TO ST. JAMES EPISCOPAL CHURCH
The meeting is in the rear of the Church, lower level. Park in the rear.
3 Appendix C - MAP TO MR. BROOTEN’S
6 Appendix D – BOOTS
7 Appendix E – BACKPACKS
8 Appendix F - SLEEPING BAGS AND SLEEPING PADS
9 Appendix G - STOVES AND FUEL
10 Appendix H - FLASHLIGHTS AND BULBS
11 Appendix I – RAINGEAR
12 Appendix J - LAYERING, UNDERWEAR, OUTERWEAR
13 Appendix K - WATER FILTERS AND GIARDIA
14 Appendix L – TENTS
15 8 Index
- troop rules committee - see troop committee...... 3 see also rules...... 6 committee chairman...... 3 #10 tin...... 15 committee meeting...... 13 50 miler...... 12 committee meeting...... 4 advancement chairman...... 8 Committee meeting...... 14 advancement chairman...... 3 Committee Meeting...... 4 Aims of Scouting...... 5 compass...... 15 air mattress...... 18 -Counselors ASPL...... 4 see Merit Badge...... 3 Award court of honor...... 7 Camp in the rain...... 8 day hike...... 10 Honor Patrol...... 8 dining fly...... 15 Tidy Camper Award...... 8 dining fly...... 13, 18 awards...... 7 drivers...... 5 ax15 driving...... 10, 14 backpack...... 15 Eagle Scout...... 8 backpack...... 14, 15, 17 Elk Feed...... 10 backpacking...... 8 fee...... 3 bike...... 10 financial assistance...... 11 boots...... 14, 15, 16 fires...... 14 climbing...... 16 first aid...... 9 fitting...... 16 first aid kit...... 15 insulated...... 16 flashlight...... 15 new...... 16 flashlight...... 15 rubber...... 16 bulbs...... 15 sealer...... 17 food...... 15 sealing...... 16 for the outing and sharing such duties as Waterman, used...... 16 Firebuil...... 9 work...... 16 FOS chairman...... 3 Boy Scout Handbook...... 5, 15 gear Boy's Life...... 3 air mattress...... 18 BSA...... 3, 5, 6 insulite...... 18 bulbs...... 15 polybottles...... 15 camera...... 15 gear...... 15 camping chairman...... 3 #10 tin...... 15 camporee...... 11 boots...... 14 Camporee...... 8, 11 camera...... 15 candle...... 15 candle...... 15 candles...... 15 clothes...... 15 canoe trip...... 11 compass...... 15 canteens...... 15 first aid kit...... 15 car camp...... 10 flashlight...... 15 Charter...... 3 food...... 15 claims night...... 11 map...... 15 -claims night matches...... 15 see also summer camp...... 11 pack...... 14 climb...... 12 rain gear...... 14 clothes rainfly...... 18 wool...... 15 sleeping bag...... 14 clothes...... 15 sleeping pad...... 14 -committee soap...... 15 see troop committee...... 3 stove...... 15
16 towel...... 15 patrol...... 4, 5 utensils...... 15 patrol leader...... 4 Getting Started...... 3 patrol leader...... 5 good turn...... 10 Patrol Method...... 5, 9, 12, 14 Gortex...... 17 Patrol Organization...... 5 grubmaster...... 13 permission slip...... 9 grubmaster for the outing and sharing such duties as Permission slip...... 3 Waterman,...... 9 Permit handbook...... 5, 15 tour...... 5, 6 Handbook...... 3 phone calling...... 5 hike...... 10, 11 pocket knife...... 15 day...... 10 polybottles...... 15 igloo...... 11 potluct dinner...... 8 -igloo Quartermaster...... 4 see also winter camping...... 11 rain fly...... 18 institutional representative...... 3 rain gear...... 15 insulite...... 18 rainfly...... 15 insurance...... 5 raingear...... 15 insurance...... 6 raingear...... 14 IRS...... 14 Registration...... 3 leadership corp REI...... 16, 17 assistant senior patrol leader...... 4 rip stop nylon...... 17 quartermaster...... 4 schedule...... 13 leadership corp schedule...... 8 librarian...... 4 scissors...... 15 scribe...... 4 Scout Expo...... 11 SPL...... 4 Scout Show...... 4 troop guide...... 4 Scout Show Chairman...... 4 liability insurance...... 6 Scouting for food...... 10 Librarian...... 4 Scoutmaster...... 4 long term outing...... 11, 12 Scribe...... 4 map...... 15 sealer...... 17 matches...... 15 secretary...... 3 medical problems...... 9 seminar...... 11 medication...... 9, 18 -senior patrol leader meetings...... 3 see also SPL...... 4 Merit Badge...... 3 Senior Patrol Leader...... 4 Merit Badge Counselors...... 3 shovel...... 15 merit badges...... 4 shovel...... 15 moleskin...... 15 sleeping bag...... 14, 15 Mountain Climbing...... 12 sleeping pad...... 14, 15 Mountaineers Lodge...... 11 -snowshoe Mt. Rainier...... 12 see also winter camping...... 11 newsletter...... 3, 6, 8 Snowshoe...... 11 nylon...... 17 soap...... 15 outings...... 3 SPL...... 4 outings...... 9 stove...... 15 -overnight stove...... 15 see outings...... 3 summer camp...... 3, 11 pack...... 14 Summer Camp...... 8 -pack Summer Camp Scholarships...... 11 see backpack...... 17 sun glasses...... 15 pack inspection...... 12, 13 sunscreen...... 15 Parent Credit Points...... 9 tent...... 15 -parents meeting THE BSA ORGANIZATION...... 3, 6 see committee meeting...... 4 toiletries...... 15
17 tour leader...... 9 Transportation chairman...... 3 tour leader...... 9, 13 treasurer...... 3 tour Leader...... 5 Uniform Chairman...... 3 Tour Leader...... 9 troop committee - Scout Show Chairman...... 4 TOUR PERMIT...... 5, 6 troop guide...... 4 towel...... 15 TROOP ORGANIZATION...... 4 transportation chairman...... 3 uniform...... 15 treasurer...... 3 Uniform...... 3 Treasurer...... 14 uniform chairman...... 3, 16 troop...... 4 Uniform Chairman...... 9 troop neckerchief...... 8 Uniforms...... 8 troop committee utensils...... 15 Assistant Scoutmaster...... 4 water filter...... 15 FOS chairman...... 3 white gas...... 15 IR...... 3 winter camping woodcutting chairman...... 3 climb...... 12 Troop committee igloo...... 11 Advancement chairman...... 3 snowshoe...... 11 camping chairman...... 3 winter outings...... 14 Committee chairman...... 3 woodcutting...... 3, 10 Scoutmaster...... 4 woodcutting chairman...... 3 Secretary...... 3 wool...... 15
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