PARENT GUIDE BOOK

1999 - 2000 revision

1. Welcome to the Scout Movement

By becoming a parent of a Boy Scout, you and your son are setting out on the grand adventure of Scouting. This is a tremendously important and rewarding endeavor that you will be able to share with him.

What is it all about? What will you be expected to do? What does it cost? We have prepared this booklet to answer these questions. The following pages describe the organization of a Troop and the advancement pattern that each boy will follow. Reading this will help you understand how your boy can progress through the ranks with your help. It will help you understand how you can help and what the various adult volunteers are doing to help the Troop.

Since 1910, the principles of Scouting have been taught in an atmosphere of recreation and fun, which allows young people to develop self-confidence, leadership and moral character. More and more men, trained as Scouts, are taking their places in today's world as responsible adult leaders. Men, who earned badges as Scouts, sit on the Supreme Court and in the chambers of Congress. Others hold important offices in our government, business and industry. Most of the members of congress were Scouts, as well as most of the astronauts who have walked on the moon.

The Boy Scouts of America is the largest youth-oriented organization in the United States. More than 4 million boys and leaders are currently registered in the Boy Scouts of America. Unlike Cub Scouting, which many of you are familiar with, Boy Scouting is a youth-lead organization. The boys learn how to organize and lead the Troop. After training, and with supervision from the adult leaders, the boys run the show. The boys in the Troop will be working towards their First Class and then Eagle ranks. As they travel on their trail to Eagle they will not only learn how to lead a team to a goal, but they will actually lead teams of scouts in a number of situations. Many Eagle Scouts put their accomplishments on their resumes and find they are often considered in obtaining acceptance into college or the work force.

Boy Scouting also provides for growth of moral strength and character, teaches citizenship, and enhances the development of physical, mental and emotional fitness. This is all done in the spirit of fun and adventure.

Please take a few minutes to read Chapter 1 of your son's Boy Scout Handbook.

2. Welcome to Boy Scout Troop 30

Temple Chai sponsors Boy Scout Troop 30. The Troop Committee and Scoutmaster pledge to you to assist each Scout in the development of his duties to God and Country, to others and to himself. We hope to develop an awareness of self-reliance, to improve individual and group skills, and to increase his abilities and knowledge, particularly those of the outdoors and nature.

Scouting involves more than the basic activities usually associated with the program, such as tying knots, cooking, and camping. While this is an integral part of Scouting, Troop 30's program also includes both adventure and work, with emphasis on growth and advancement in all phases of character building, citizenship, acceptance of responsibility, planning, execution, and evaluation. Should a question arise or problems develop, please contact a member of the Committee, the Scoutmaster or one of the Assistant Scoutmasters. Such contact is particularly necessary should any situation arise that may affect the Scout's relationship with his fellow Scouts, Patrol , or Troop. This is not to say that Troop policies will be changed or action will be taken to address the problem every time such a situation arises. The Troop Committee will weigh the facts and determine what is to be done. If there is no feedback from parents, the Troop Committee must assume that all is well within the Troop.

The Troop Committee and the Scoutmaster recognize that Scouting has become expensive and can be a strain on a household budget. Troop 30's program includes a variety of activities. No Scout should be prevented from participating for financial reasons. All discussions will be held with the utmost confidentiality. Troop 30 believes that it can be successful by being flexible and adapting to the changing times and interests of its members. Everyone's thoughts and suggestions to make this a better program are always welcome. The following material has been written to assist new Scouts and their families in learning some of the rules and procedures that will help our Troop to remain successful and enhance each Scout's enjoyment of the program.

3. Joining Troop 30

A parent or guardian should accompany his/her son to a Troop meeting at the time the decision is made to join Troop 30. A membership packet will be given to the parent for review and completion of necessary forms. The parent, with son, will meet with the Scoutmaster or Assistant Scoutmaster to discuss Troop 30's Scouting Program, Policy and Procedures. The boy will not be permitted to participate in any Scouting function until he is properly registered and all his fees are paid. He may visit up to three Troop meetings before joining.

The Membership Packet includes: Application Medical Forms / Consent to Treat

Form, Troop Resource Survey, Troop Roster, Latest Newsletter. Each Scout's parent or guardian is asked to contribute to the Troop and its activities in some way. Many resources and talents are required to operate a Troop and to have a quality program. The Troop is in need of your help. If the Troop Resource Survey does not address your abilities, please discuss with the Scoutmaster ways you can assist the Troop. It is expected that each Scout's family unit will contribute to the Scout's Troop and its program. The policy of the Boy Scouts of America allows local Scouting units and their chartered organization to determine their own membership, absent any legal constraints. Troop 30 invites all Scout-age boys, regardless of race, religion, or disability to join the Scouting movement.

WHAT IS SCOUTING ALL ABOUT?

Three Aims of Scouting

1. To build character
2. To foster citizenship
3. To develop fitness

These three aims are the bedrock of the Scouting movement. They represent the long-term outcome we want for every boy.

Eight Methods of Scouting

Mission Statement of the Boy Scouts of America

It is the mission of the Boy Scouts of America to serve others by helping to instill values in young people and to prepare them to make ethical choices during their lifetime in achieving their full potential. The values we strive to instill are based on those found in the Scout Oath and Scout Law.

A Scout is: Trustworthy, Loyal, Helpful, Friendly, Courteous, Kind, Obedient, Cheerful, Thrifty, Brave, Clean, and Reverent

SCOUT OATH

On my honor I will do my best

To do my duty to God and my country

and to obey the Scout Law;

To help other people at all times;

To keep myself physically strong,

mentally awake, and morally straight.

ORGANIZATION

Troop 30 is a participating member of the Grand Canyon Council, Boy Scouts of America. The Troop's organization consists of a Chartered Organization, Troop Committee, the Troop, and the Troop's Parents.

1. Chartered Organization (Sponsor)

Every Troop belongs to an organization. The Chartered Organization for Troop 30 is Temple Chai. The Temple shares our objectives for the boys and insures that there is adequate, trained leadership. A Chartered Organization Representative acts as a liaison between the Troop and the Temple, and serves on the Troop Committee as a voting member. 

2. Troop Committee

The Troop Committee consists of a minimum of five individuals and functions as an administration and support organization for the Troop. Four Troop Committee members must be present at a regular or called Troop Committee meeting to constitute a quorum. The Troop Committee takes care of the non-program issues surrounding the Troop. For example: newsletters, Troop funds, fundraising activities, membership drives and Pack coordination, activity tour permits and coordination, advancement records and procurement and maintenance of Troop equipment.

The Committee Chairman is responsible to insure that all Troop functions are properly delegated, coordinated and completed so that the Troop program is accomplished according to the policies of the BSA. The Committee meets the second Sunday of each month. The meetings are open, and all parents and other interested adults are encouraged to attend. Only members of the Troop Committee will be allowed to vote on items brought before the Committee. 

3. Adult Leadership

The Scoutmaster is the adult leader responsible for the image and program of the Troop. The Scoutmaster and Assistant Scoutmasters work directly with the Scouts. The importance of the Scoutmaster's job is reflected in the fact that the quality of his guidance will affect every youth and adult involved in the Troop. Scouting policy states there must be two adult leaders at all Troop activities. The Assistant Scoutmasters provide this two-deep leadership. In addition, they assist the Scoutmaster in performing his duties in guiding the Troop Program. 

4. Patrol s and Patrol Leaders

The Troop is a group made up of several Patrol s. Each Patrol usually consists of a Patrol Leader and no less than four Scouts and no more than ten Scouts. The boys in the Patrol elect their Patrol Leader who in turn appoints the Assistant Patrol Leader. Each Scout is assigned to a given Patrol , with a Patrol emblem to be worn on the uniform. Patrol s are encouraged to operate as independent units for many of their activities, such as camping trips, summer camp, etc. Patrol meetings, in addition to regular meetings, are encouraged and recommended. Each Patrol will periodically elect their Patrol Leader. Scouts desiring to change from one Patrol to another may do so with the approval of the Troop Committee.

The Patrol Leader represents the Patrol at the Patrol Leader's Council (PLC). The PLC consists of an elected Senior Patrol Leader, appointed Assistant Senior Patrol Leader(s), the Patrol Leaders, and others requested by the Scoutmaster. The PLC develops and implements the Troop Program with the guidance of the Scoutmaster and the Assistant Scoutmasters. The Troop Committee approves this program.

The Senior Patrol Leader is an elected position. The Senior Patrol Leader selects an Assistant Senior Patrol Leader; the Scoutmaster may also appoint a second Assistant Senior Patrol Leader. 

5. Troop Parents

It is recognized that parent interest in Scouting varies for many reasons. The benefits that the Scout receives are directly proportionate to both the QUALITY and QUANTITY of parental support and participation. Please keep this in mind when your help is requested. In addition, encourage and assist your boy in obtaining the most out of Scouting. He needs your support! Any suggestions or questions that parents may have are more than welcome. Present them to any Committee member or send a note with your son to any meeting. All parents are welcome to attend Committee meetings. In order to insure a successful program, parents will be required to occasionally participate in an outing and/or provide transportation. A minimum of two adult leaders and a minimum ratio of one adult per eight Scouts is required on every outing.

Parents are expected to help with transportation at least a couple of times each year. If adequate transportation cannot be arranged for an event, some Scouts may not be able to attend. Those Scouts that are at the top of the list for attending will be those Scouts whose parents have participated the most in previous Scout activities. Periodically, Troop parents' meetings are held to solicit suggestions, comments and ideas on how to enhance the program. Troop financial information, as well as future Troop plans, (summer camp), is normally available at these meetings. 

PLEASE BE THERE -- The Troop needs the support and input from all of its Scouts and parents.

Additionally, we encourage you to read the Parent's Guide "How to Protect your Children from Child Abuse and Drug Abuse" a supplement, which can be found in the front of your son's Scout Handbook. This booklet tells you what you can do with your child to prevent drug and/or child abuse along with an explanation about what Scouting is also doing. The prevention of Drug Abuse and Child Abuse are topics that the Boy Scouts of America and the Committee of Troop 30 take very seriously.

The role of parents within Troop 30 is to be supportive of the Troop's efforts and to provide the atmosphere Scouts need to learn and excel. Parents should try to:

Read their Scout's handbook and understand the purpose and methods of Scouting. Actively follow their Scout's progress (or lack thereof) and offer encouragement and a push when needed. Show support to both the individual Scout and the Troop by attending all Troop Courts of Honor, which are held three times per year. Assist, as requested, in all Troop fund-raisers and other such activities. All such assistance lowers the cost of the program we offer to the Scouts and, therefore, lowers each family's cash outlay for their Scout(s). Be aware of the Troop program and annual calendar. 

GET INVOLVED. A Troop such as ours needs many adult volunteers to keep the

Program running so as not to overburden any one individual. 

1. Troop Meetings

Troop Meetings are held every Monday, from 7:30 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. at the Temple (Social Hall). Changes to the meeting schedule due to holidays, outings, etc., will be announced as early as possible to allow for proper planning.

2. Registration Fees

Troop registration fees for a new scout will be a charge of $50.00. Payment by

check made out to BSA Troop 30 is requested. The canceled check is your receipt.

Other fees may be required for Troop activities. If any financial hardship exists, please contact either the Troop Committee Chairman or the Scoutmaster. Any discussions will be held in the strictest of confidence. On going Troop registration fees will be $50 per year, to be paid by December 1^st, or prorated at per month (or partial month), when joining. Scouts who are delinquent in their registration fees may not be permitted to advance or participate in Troop camping trips or events. As with any organization, activities require money. Financial problems are understood. If such occurs let us know so we can work out an agreeable payment plan and keep your Scout active. Registration fees include a subscription to Boys' Life magazine, BSA membership dues, insurance and Troop 30 dues.

3.Weekly Dues

Currently, the Troop charges dues in the amount of $ 20.00 per year. These dues are to be paid whether the Scout is in attendance or not. A Scout, in living the Scout Law, is Thrifty by helping the Troop with its financial needs. It is suggested that the Scout earn his dues through a part-time job, weekly allowance, etc., and be responsible for his own dues. Periodically, the Troop Committee will contact parents concerning any Scout who has become delinquent in paying his dues. Parents may elect to pay dues in advance. 

4. Membership and Attendance

Scouts are expected to attend all Troop meetings on the schedule. The SPL and Patrol Leaders are expected to attend PLCs in addition to the Troop meetings.

Patrol Leaders at all Troop meetings will take attendance. ANY Scout who misses 25% or more of the scheduled Troop meetings or outings (on a cumulative basis) may not be allowed to participate in Troop outdoor events or hold a Troop position. Absences due to school, illness or participation in another organized activity will be counted as an excused absence. Some progress toward the next rank advancement should be made during each Scout charter year.

A Scout can be moved to inactive membership if he does not meet the definition of active membership at any time during the year.

An inactive Scout can be restored to the active roll by demonstrating his desire to be an active member of the Troop. The Scout's attendance at Troop meetings, fund-raising projects, service projects and other special activities, will allow him to request reinstatement to membership status if there is a place available on the active membership roster. During inactive status, a Scout will not camp with the Troop nor receive any rank advancement. Merit Badges may be earned but will not be presented at a Troop meeting or Court of Honor until the Scout is restored to active membership. An advancement report of badges earned will be sent to the Council Office only after restoration to the active roll. The movement of Scouts from active to inactive membership and vice versa is left to the discretion of the Scoutmaster in consultation with the Assistant Scoutmasters and Troop Committee. The Scoutmaster may use a single factor or multiple factors (see above) in his decision.

The Scoutmaster will assign each boy to a Patrol as soon as possible. Immediate and full participation in Troop and Patrol activities is expected of each new Scout.

For the purpose of this policy, attendance is defined as being on time, in uniform, and participating with good Scout Spirit. Scout Spirit requires living everyday in accordance with the Scout Oath, the twelve points of the Scout Law, the Scout Motto and the Scout Slogan. 

5. Troop Outings

In addition to regular meetings, the Troop attempts to have some type of activity monthly to enable each Scout to enhance his learning experience and to utilize and enjoy the rewards of the previous skill he has learned. In general, the Troop will plan an outing on the third weekend of each month. These outings may include day hikes, overnight hikes (backpacking), campouts (tailgate camping), district camporees, or other special events.

The Troop may also participate in: Community or Council service projects, Good Turn projects, and Eagle Scout Projects. Courts of Honor (parents also participate) Fundraisers (parents also participate) All programs are based on Scout and parent input. If you would like to see something new, please bring it to the Committee or Patrol Leaders' Council. 

6. Summer Camp

You cannot take the "outing" out of Scouting. Our Troop attends a week of summer camp each year at a nationally accredited Scout Camp. Summer camp provides advancement opportunities that simply cannot be beat. Certain skills and merit badges may not be available anywhere else.

It is a policy of Troop 30 to attend a variety of summer camps, a new location each summer. This assures variety in the Troop's objectives for long-term camping and affords Scouts the opportunity to experience different camp programs, natural environments and other Scouts and Troops. 

7. Permission Slips

Permission slips must be turned in prior to participation in each outing, whether one day or longer. These slips must be signed by a parent or guardian and will be collected prior to leaving. These slips authorize the adult leader in charge to seek medical assistance should a Scout incur an accident or become ill. Depending on the seriousness of the problem, parents may be notified. Any permission slip that is signed by anyone other then the parent or guardian will not be accepted. Any boy not furnishing this slip will have to be left behind, and any consequences resulting from this action will be the responsibility of the boy and/or parents. When completing the permission slip, please give one other individual who can be contacted in case of emergency. Adult leaders attending a weekend or longer outing would like to go home to their families as soon as possible after returning from an outing. 

8. Troop Communications

As boys develop into adults, it is essential that they assume certain responsibilities of listening to announcements and taking necessary notes to insure that the Scouts are aware of upcoming activities and other pertinent information. At each Troop meeting various announcements are made pertaining to updated information. If a Scout is unable to attend a regular Troop meeting, he is responsible for contacting his Patrol Leader or another Patrol Member to obtain any information from that meeting. It should not be the parent's responsibility. Periodically, Troop newsletters and calendars will be sent home with your Scout. Communications outside of a regular meeting will be passed by telephone through the Senior Patrol Leader to each Patrol Leader and subsequently to each member. If they should still need more information, they should call their Patrol Leader. If you find you are not receiving required information, first discuss it with your Scout and then contact the Scoutmaster or a member of the Troop Committee so any problem can be corrected. 

In General

There are many definitions of advancement, but the Scouting definition might well be, simply "the art of meeting a challenge." For that is exactly what the Boy Scout advancement program asks the boys to do. The Boy Scout advancement program provides a ladder of skills that a Scout climbs at his own pace. As he acquires these skills he moves up through a series of ranks, for which he is awarded badges. Scout, Tenderfoot, Second Class, First Class, Star, Life, and Eagle. The higher he climbs the more challenging his tasks, and the more rewarding.

planned quality Troop program. 

From the time the Scout enters the Troop through the time he earns advancement to First Class, he is learning basic Scouting skills to enable him to camp, hike, swim, cook, tie knots, administer first aid, and perform other tasks in the outdoors and to work as a member of a team. With those first steps, the Scout begins to build himself physically, mentally, and morally. He will start to live with the Scout Oath and Law. Soon he will learn the symbolism inherent in the Scout badge; he will learn that there are three points of the trefoil which stand for the three parts of the Scout Oath: Duty to God and Country, duty to other people, and duty to self. The goal of this Troop is for the Scout to achieve the rank of First Class within his first year in the Troop. This is a sign that the Scout has mastered the fundamentals of Scouting and can begin to start the long process of learning to lead others, refining their learned skills and learning additional skills. We ask that the parent work with their son on their rank advancement from the time they join through the rank of First Class. The requirements for these ranks are outlined in the Boy Scout Handbook and the parents should read through these and test their son on what he knows. If your son understands the requirements, he may have the Scoutmaster or Assistant Scoutmaster sign them off. 

2. Advancement from First Class to Eagle

From the achievement of First Class through Eagle, the Scout will be demonstrating leadership; performing service projects, earning merit badges and using the skills learned while achieving the rank of First Class. The next ranks he will earn are Star and Life. These ranks are harder to obtain than the earlier ranks, but are also more interesting for the older Scouts. Upon completion of all the requirements for Star and Life, the Scout will be eligible to work for Eagle. The original principles, the Scout Oath and Law, now have fuller meaning for the Scout and their understanding of them is much greater. The final steps towards Eagle are filled with leadership experiences. 

3. Merit Badges

The goal of the merit badge program is to expand a Scout's areas of interest and to encourage the Scout to meet and work with adults in a chosen subject. Merit badges are earned by a Scout working with a registered and District approved merit badge counselor. Before beginning a merit badge, a Scout must first contact the Advancement Chair Asst. Scoutmaster for his approval, and for suggestions on a merit badge counselor. The Scout is required to contact the counselor to arrange for times and places to meet with the counselor. When the Scout completes the work on the merit badge the counselor will inform the Scout that he has completed the requirements. The parent's responsibility is to encourage their son to achieve the next rank. The Scout should contact these counselors and make arrangements with them to get the badge requirements completed along with a buddy. We would like to keep our Merit Badge Counselors' List within the Troop up to date. If your hobbies or employment fall under one of the merit badge titles, please let our Advancement Committee know and they will give you the necessary information needed to become a merit badge counselor. Parents should not serve as merit badge counselors for their own son unless the merit badge is "family related", such as Personal Management, Pets, etc., and then only when an outside counselor is unavailable. The merit badge counselor records a Scout's progress towards a merit badge on a "blue card." This "blue card" is in three parts, and after completion, the card is separated as follows; (i) part one is for the Scout's own record of completion of the merit badge, (ii) part two is turned in to the Troop's Advancement Chairman, and (iii) part three is kept by the merit badge counselor for his/her records. The Scout should keep the Scout's copy of the blue card, along with the merit badge card received when the merit badge is awarded. The Scout will need this information when sitting for a Board of Review. Before any Scout begins a merit badge, Scoutmaster or Committee Member approval must first be obtained. This approval process is necessary to insure that the Scout understands the requirements for the merit badge and that an approved merit badge counselor has been contacted. At the discretion of the Troop Committee, a merit badge can be refused if a Scout does not follow this requirement. Merit badges may not be offered as part of the regular Troop annual calendar as a matter of routine; however, to spark an interest in a subject area the Troop may use merit badge counselors to make presentations covering the highlights of a merit badge. Scouts are then given an opportunity to try a skill related to the badge. Also, work on some merit badges may be arranged at some camping trips. No Scout, Parent, Assistant Scoutmaster or Committee Member will arrange for a merit badge class to run concurrent with the regularly scheduled Troop meeting unless specifically approved by the Patrol Leaders' Council. Troop meetings are reserved for conducting skill and leadership training and general Troop business. With the approval of both the Scoutmaster and Advancement Chairman, merit badge classes may be scheduled at the regular meeting. Approval of the Advancement Chairman will ensure approved counselors, "blue cards," merit badge books and other administrative requirements. 

4. Service Projects

Work on service projects for credit toward advancement to Star and Life ranks shall be approved by the Scoutmaster in advance of starting the project. Only adult leaders are authorized to sign off service project requirements. If there is any doubt as to the validity of the project, the matter will be referred to the Troop Committee for resolution. Eagle service projects shall be of lasting value to the community rather than completion of routine upkeep and preventive maintenance. The project shall be approved by the Troop Committee and a District representative in advance of beginning any work. The Troop 30 Committee requires that the Eagle candidate brief the Troop Committee on his project at a regularly scheduled Committee meeting. The Eagle candidate must take into consideration the lead-time required for Troop and District Committee approval in planning work schedules. The brief shall outline the scope, scale and requirements of the proposed project. The Committee will review the candidate's plan for completeness in planning and ability of the Troop to support the project to completion. The schedule of work should be examined in detail to ensure there are no major conflicts with other planned Troop activities. Upon completion of the service project, the Eagle candidate shall provide the Advancement Chairman with a written description of the project and, where appropriate, a schedule of participants and hours worked. 

5. Leadership Requirements

One or a combination of the following positions, with a minimum of six months in office will be accepted as fulfilling the leadership requirements for the Star and Life ranks:

6. Boards of Review

When a Scout has completed all the requirements for a rank, he appears before a board of review composed of at least three and not more than six members of the Troop Committee. The purpose of the review is not an examination. Rather it is to determine the Scout's attitude and acceptance of Scouting's ideals, to ensure that the requirements have been met for advancement, to discuss the Scout's experiences in the Troop and the Troop's program, and to encourage him to keep working towards advancement. A Board of Review may also be held to counsel a boy about his lack of progress toward advancement. The Troop Committee reserves the right to not conduct a board of review if the Scout is not in his Class A uniform. 

7. Courts of Honor

Troop 30 will conduct a Court of Honor three times per year, usually in January,

May, and September. The Court of Honor recognizes all Scout appointments, elections, awards, and advancements since the last Court of Honor. Adult recognition may also be presented during the Troop Court of Honor. It is the responsibility of the Troop's Patrol Leaders Council to plan and conduct the Troop Courts of Honor. The Troop Committee will support the Courts of Honor as requested. The Committee wishes to make the point that full parental support and attendance is very vital at each Court of Honor. The Troop reserves the right to withhold any advancement if the Scout is not in uniform. Please make all efforts to be in attendance. All of the family (and friends) are welcome. Scouts are reminded that notification must be given to the awards chairman for all achievements to be recorded and awarded. This must be done at least two weeks prior to the Court of Honor.

1. Rechartering and Fees The process of rechartering is the annual collection of registration fees for the Scouts and Leaders. The process of rechartering the Troop must be completed by the end of December of each calendar year. 

2. Annual Registration Fees

How much does Boy Scouting cost? As little as possible, but nothing worthwhile is free. The annual fee for each Scout in Troop 30 is $50.00. $7.00 for national BSA membership $1.00 for insurance $33.00 for Troop membership (Pays for Class B shirt, Troop hat, badges, awards, and other expenses incurred by the Troop as a whole.) $9.00 for Boys' Life magazine.

Each adult leader registered with the Troop is responsible for their own registration fees. 

3. Fees For Outings / Activities

Scouts and Scouters participating in camping trips will be responsible for the cost of the event. The Troop dues do not provide sufficient funds to sponsor Troop camping trips, events and equipment replacement. The adult leader responsible for a particular camping trip will advise Scouts, with a flyer two weeks in advance, of any camp fees required. Generally, the cost of attending a camping trip will be a minimum of $5.00 per event, and does not include the cost of food. Depending on the event, the cost could be more. 

Troop 30 is a non-profit organization and does not receive funding from any external sources. We are a self-supporting troop and 100% of the funds that are raised annually are used exclusively for the benefit of the troop. The funds are used for equipment, recognition and a variety of other activities that directly benefit the troop. Through various fundraisers that are held throughout the year, each scout has the opportunity to support the troop in this endeavor.

Donations

UNIFORM AND EQUIPMENT

1. Uniform

The Scout uniform helps to achieve the objectives of Scouting and shows "Scout Spirit." The uniform by itself cannot make a good Scout or a good Troop, but its use has been proven to improve both the Scout and the Troop because it is a visible symbol of Scouting and unity. All Scouts are required to wear the Scout uniform to all scouting activities. Each Scout is required to have and wear, within a reasonable amount of time after joining the Troop, the following uniform items:

2. Equipment and Packing

Read and look first. If you have a new Scout, do not rush out and spend lots of money on camping equipment yet. Start by reading pages 51 through 53 in your Scout's Boy Scout Handbook. Ask some of his fellow Scouts or his leaders what type of pack and sleeping bag they should have, and what they like and don't like about it and why. Have your Scout go on a camping trip using an old sleeping bag (or borrow one) and have him look around at the various types to see what may work best for him. Of course, you should look at the types of equipment and prices in several stores before making a decision. 

About sleeping bags...

Synthetic filled bags should have 3 lb. of fill minimum and a 4-lb. bag will usually be more than adequate. However, wool or wool blends "blanket-sheet" inner liner, and a blanket or two on top can provide additional warmth. There is no current need to invest in a "sub-zero" bag for your son for Scouting purposes. Regardless of your decision to purchase, make sure that your Scout can stuff the sleeping bag by himself before you leave the store. Otherwise, he may have very difficult times on campouts trying to pack a sleeping bag that he can't handle and turn what might otherwise be a fun trip into one of frustration. Please...Do not bring anything that has a high monetary or sentimental value. We have discovered that things have ways of being misplaced or broken on campouts! The Troop will assume no responsibility for these items. 

Food

All food and drink that your camper will need for the weekend will be purchased by each Patrol before the campout. Each Scout is responsible for being in attendance at the grocery store to purchase food and supplies for the weekend. The Scout is responsible for making arrangements if he is unable to attend the Patrol food purchase, by giving his food money to the Scoutmaster or an Assistant Scoutmaster. A receipt will be issued to the Scout on receipt of the money. If a Scout does not make other arrangements and fails to either be present with his money or have his money available at the time the Patrol purchases the food, that Scout will be responsible for purchasing his own food and supplies, and for cooking his own meals at the campout using his personal cooking gear. Scouts are to adhere to the menu approved by the Senior Patrol Leader or his designate. Regardless of the weather conditions or disposition of the Scout, the agreed upon menu will be prepared and eaten by the Scouts. Scouts should not bring any personal stash of soft drinks, candy, or other snacks, unless instructed by the Scoutmaster or his designate.

The average cost of food for a weekend is approximately $ 2.50 per meal.

When gathering for a campout after 5:00 on Friday evenings, the Troop will not prepare a dinner. Please see that your son is well fed before arrival, or as an alternative please provide a brown bag supper. 

Cooking

Each Scout to provide his own personal mess kit with eating utensils. The Troop will provide basic cooking equipment, i.e. cooking utensils, pots, skillets, etc. 

Identification

ALL clothing items and equipment that your son takes should be permanently marked with his name. 

Pocketknife

The knife is the one piece of camping equipment that your son will keep and use as he grows older. A cheap knife will dull easily and be difficult to sharpen. While an official BSA knife is not necessary, it will gain a great deal of sentimental value. A knife with a locking blade is recommended, and the blade must not be over four inches in length. Fixed-blade knives are not allowed at Boy Scout functions. 

Hiking

Hiking is an essential part of Scouting. Good shoes are essential for a good hike. Most tennis shoes do not have enough support. Shoes should be broken in first. Wool socks should be worn, as they do not retain moisture like cotton socks do. The uniform socks are wool and have some cushioning for walking. Many canteens that are available at a cheaper price do not hold up. The smaller metal canteen is well made and fits better in a backpack than the larger circular canteen. When on a day hike, many fanny packs come equipped with holders for the small plastic water bottles. The canteen is also nice for a midnight drink of water when you do not want to leave your cozy sleeping bag. It is important to remember to pack for the expected weather. As a general rule, always pack for one extra day more than the scheduled outing. In other words, if we will be gone for a two-day weekend, pack three pairs of pants, three pairs of socks, etc. At least one extra pair of shoes or boots should be included in the event your Scout inadvertently steps (or falls) into water. A dry pair of shoes will then be a necessity. 

3. Damage to Troop Equipment/Property

Since the Troop has invested a great deal of money in equipment for the use of many Scouts, each Scout is expected to use and care for it better than if it were his own. Deliberate or negligent damage by any Scout will be cause for such Scout to be responsible for the repair, replacement or reimbursement to the Troop, for the cost of such repairs/replacements. 

1. In General

At Troop 30, we consider safety of each and every member to be very important. At times the Troop will participate in activities of slightly higher risk than the average activity. When you sign any activity permission slip, please be sure that you fully understand the scope of the activity. For the health and safety of each member of the Troop we will use (but not be limited to) the rules described in this booklet as a guide. The action taken to enforce these rules will depend on the infraction that occurred. The BSA has adopted the Guide to Safe Scouting (document number 10-212). A copy is available at the Council office for your review.

The health of the Scouts is very important to us as well. In order to attend activities and outings as a Troop, we require a completed Class II medical form be filled out for every Scout every three years with a Class 1 form updated every year (the same forms required by Boy Scouts of America for camping at Council camps) These forms will be distributed via the Troop and should be updated by the first Monday of July. All outings require at least two adult leaders to be present, with at least one registered with the BSA. The BSA "Two-deep leadership" policy will pertain to all Troop functions. 

2. Drug, Alcohol, and Tobacco Use and Abuse

The Boy Scouts of America prohibits the use of alcoholic beverages and controlled substances at encampments or activities on property owned and/or operated by the Boy Scouts of America, or at any activity involving participation of youth members. We support the attitude that our young adults are better off without tobacco. Any Scout guilty of using, possessing and/or distributing a controlled substance (drugs and alcohol) will be dropped from the Troop Roster. Parents of the guilty Scout will be advised of all actions taken. The Scout may later be allowed to return once his problem has been resolved to the satisfaction of the Troop Committee.

No Scout will be allowed to use a controlled substance of any type at any Scouting function. This includes those boys who have parental permission to use tobacco. 

3. Prescriptions

The taking of prescription medication is the responsibility of the individual taking the medication and/or that individual's parent or guardian. A Scout leader, after obtaining all the necessary information, will agree to accept the responsibility of making sure a Scout takes the necessary medication at the appropriate time. (BSA policy does not mandate nor necessarily encourage the Scout leader to do so.) 

4. Discipline Policy

During all events and activities the Scouts are expected to live up to the rules established by the Boy Scouts of America, the Troop, and the leaders. In the event any Scout (or adult) does not follow these rules or threatens the health or safety of any of its members, the leader in charge may take immediate remedial action, including but not limited to immediate suspension from that activity. The individual may be reinstated either by the leader in charge of the specific event or by requesting reinstatement by the Troop Committee.

If the leader in charge of an activity determines that a Scout is to be suspended from the current activity, the parent or guardian will be immediately contacted to come directly to the activity's location and pick up their son. The distance the activity is from the Scout's home will have no bearing on the determination that a Scout is to be sent home, and will not be accepted as an excuse by the parent. Should such actions recur by the same Scout or adult they may be subject to permanent dismissal from the Troop upon decision by the Troop Committee. 

5. Driver Responsibility & Vehicle Safety

The Troop uses the resource of the parents to provide the transportation and the leadership for our outings. When accepting this responsibility, we ask that as a leader you do your best to be an example of good Scouting and act accordingly to the Scout Oath and Law as well as (but not limited to) the rules of this guidebook. You are being used as a role model for our Scouts. As a driver we demand that when you show up for driving for an outing that you and your vehicle are in good driving condition, and we will expect nothing less. The Troop cannot tolerate an impaired driver due to alcohol or drugs and a driver may be asked by the Troop leadership not to drive if there is ANY concern that this may be a problem. If any parent has a concern that one of our drivers may be impaired please bring it to the attention of the leader in charge of the activity. Your son's safety is our first concern.

We live by the motto SAFETY FIRST!!

The Troop will travel to and from outings/campouts as a unit except when the Scoutmaster grants permission for alternate travel. Parent cooperation is most appreciated. 

6. Insurance

BSA provides insurance to all registered Scouts and leaders of the Troop. Any person, who is not registered as a member of the Troop, will not be covered under the Council's Accident and Sickness Insurance plan. All adults providing transportation to an event must be listed on the tour permit, if any Scout other than their own son is a passenger in the vehicle. 

CAMPOUT GUIDELINES

In the interest of the safety of all Scouts, as well as the enjoyment and successful learning experience of the Scouting program, common sense and good conduct is required at all times. When gathering for a camp out after 5:00 on Friday evenings, the Troop may not prepare a dinner. Please see that your son is well fed before arrival or as an alternative; provide a brown bag supper. The following special rules should be noted:

FAILURE TO COMPLY WITH THE ABOVE CAMPING GUIDELINES MAY RESULT IN THE SCOUT OR ADULT NOT BEING PERMITTED TO GO ON THE NEXT CAMPING TRIP.