Welcome to the Troop 73 Handbook



BOY SCOUT TROOP 4019

HANDBOOK

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Adopted: June 21, 2006

Revised: February 23, 2018

Welcome new Scouts, Scouters and parents to Boy Scout Troop 4019. We hope your son will enjoy being a member of our Troop while he makes new friends and learns to become a responsible young adult.

The Troop handbook is your reference guide to our Troop. It includes what is expected of our Troop, our leaders and of your scout. This handbook represents many of the policies and procedures developed by the Boy Scouts of America (BSA) and the Troop 4019 Committee. Please take the time to read every page in order to eliminate any misunderstandings. You are encouraged to visit for information regarding the Andaste District and Boy Scout policies/forms.

The Troop 4019 Committee is responsible to the Chartering Organization, The Church of the Redeemer, the Troop program is to be conducted according to BSA policies as well as the Chartering Organization's expectations. Modifications to the policies and procedures contained in the Troop 4019 Handbook is the responsibility of the Troop 4019 Committee, and will only be made according to BSA policy.

It is the Troop's policy to abide by the procedures and rules set forth in this handbook. If you have any questions or concerns regarding this handbook, please feel free to contact any Troop Committee member.

Committee Chairman Anne Osborn

Scoutmaster John Johnson

 

Table of Contents

Meetings 4

Troop Meetings 4

Patrol Leader Council (PLC) 4

Troop Committee Meetings 4

Patrol Meetings 4

Troop Organization 5

Youth Responsibilities 6

Scout 6

Patrol Leader 6

Junior Leader 6

Junior Leader Requirements 7

Senior Patrol Leader (SPL) 7

Other (ASPL, QM, Scribe, Librarian, Historian, Chaplain Aide) 7

Patrol Leader (PL) 7

Uniform 8

Code of Conduct 9

Disciplinary Actions 9

Attendance, Participation, and Advancement 10

Merit Badge Procedure 11

Courts of Honor 11

Scout Expenses 12

Troop Expneses 13

Troop Financing 14

Camp-outs and Special Outings 15

Physicals 16

Prescriptions 16

Equipment 16

Adult Responsibilities 17

Troop Parents: 17

Adult Registration 17

Automobiles 17

Paperwork 18

Adult Leaders 19

Scoutmaster: 19

Assistant Scoutmasters (ASM): 19

Troop Committee 20

Other Troop 4019 Policies 22

Directions to Camp Brule 22

Directions to Camp Gorton 22

Troop 4019 Gear Guide 23

Meetings

Troop meetings are held every Wednesday of the month (September through June) unless otherwise announced. Meetings are at the Church of the Redeemer on South Wilbur Avenue in Sayre. The meetings begin promptly at 7:00 pm and end at 8:30 pm.

If Sayre Schools have no school due to a weather event then the meeting is cancelled. Summer meetings will be conducted through a schedule developed by the Scoutmaster and PLC prior to June 1 of each year. This schedule will be given to scouts and parents prior to June 1.

Please be courteous and arrange to pick up your Scout on time; adult Scout leaders must stay until all Scouts have left the meeting room.

Patrol Leader Council (PLC) meetings are the organizational meetings for the Scouting program in Troop 4019. These meetings are led by the Senior Patrol Leader (SPL), and include the voting members of the PLC - Assistant SPL (ASPL), patrol leaders (PL), and Troop Guide for the new Scout patrol.

The PLC meeting will be held the last Wednesday of the month, ½ hour before the Troop meeting. Ideally, preliminary plans for the next two months will be discussed and written down while final plans will be discussed and adjusted for the upcoming month. The SPL runs the PLC meeting. The Scoutmaster or his designate must attend.

Each patrol has one vote and must have a member at this meeting; if the PL cannot attend, then the assistant PL attends, etc. These Scouts make up the voting membership of the PLC. Adults who may participate (but do not vote) include the Scoutmaster and Assistant Scoutmasters.

The Troop Scribe attends as the "minutes" taker for the PLC. Junior leaders and adults are welcome to attend, but they should not expect to participate unless called upon by the PLC. All general activities of Troop 4019 are approved by the voting members of the PLC. Brief PLC meetings may be held after the regular meeting to be sure everyone knows what the following week’s program will be.

Troop Committee meetings are held monthly on the last Wednesday of the month from August through May at the Church of the Redeemer. The Troop Committee meeting begins at 7:00 pm and end at 8:15 pm.

The Troop Committee oversees the Scouting program. The meetings shall be open to parents, registered members of Troop 4019 and non-key Committee officers for their input and considerations. Only adults registered with Troop 4019 have the authority to vote. A quorum of majority voting members must be present at any Committee meeting in order to vote on Troop business items.

Patrol meetings are usually held during each Troop meeting. Patrol meetings outside of the Troop meeting time can be held at the discretion of each patrol.

Troop Organization

The Troop includes all Scouts and Scouters registered to Troop 4019. The Troop is sponsored by the Church of the Redeemer, which is the Charter Organization.

• Scouts are registered Boy Scouts under the age of 18 years.

• Scouters are adults age 18 or older registered to the Boy Scouts of America (BSA).

The Troop is comprised of patrols. New Scouts will be assigned to the New Scout Patrol, where they will concentrate on learning Scouting skills. After the first of the year, following their crossover, they will transfer to one of the experienced patrols.

Troop activities are chosen and arranged by the Scouts, with the approval of the Scoutmaster Corps and the Troop Committee. This is done through the monthly Patrol Leaders' Council (PLC).

Scout leadership in the troop includes the Senior Patrol Leader (SPL), Assistant Senior Patrol Leader(s) (ASPL), Patrol Leaders, Assistant Patrol Leaders, Troop Guide(s), Quartermaster, Scribe, Librarian, Historian, and Chaplain’s Aide.

Scouters are members either of the Scoutmaster Corps, which is responsible for direct advising of the Scouts, or the Troop Committee, which ensures the quality of the troop program. Troop Committee members interact with the Scouts under the guidance of the Scoutmaster Corps. Adult / Parent participation is needed to help with fundraising, transportation, logistics and as Merit Badge counselors (MBC). MBC must be approved and registered biannually with the Andaste District of the Five Rivers Council.

Youth Responsibilities

Scout Responsibilities 

• Participate in troop and patrol activities. 

• Cooperate with others in your patrol. Things go smoothly if everyone does their share.

• Follow and listen to the directions of your Patrol Leader. 

• Take notes so you remember key dates and places, and so you do not forget anything you promised to do. 

• Be prepared. Always bring your Boy Scout Handbook, notebook, and a pen or pencil to meetings and on camp-outs.  

• If you cannot make it to a troop or patrol meeting, let your Patrol Leader know before the meeting. 

Patrol Leader Responsibilities

• Attend the PLC meeting as required by the junior leader position.

• Lead the patrol meetings 

• Be prepared: Always bring your Boy Scout Handbook, notebook, and a pen or pencil to meetings and on camp-outs.  

• Go over announcements. 

• Give any required comments or opinions to the Scoutmaster.

• Be sure that everyone in your patrol knows what is going on. If any member misses a troop or patrol meeting, call them and inform them of what they missed. 

• PL may schedule extra patrol meetings as needed. 

• PL will be the main organizer for camp-outs. PL delegate responsibilities for buying food, wood gathering, cooking, cleanup, and other camp tasks. 

• PL will be responsible to contact his patrol members when a cancellation of a troop meeting or outing occurs. The SPL will forward this message to the PLs from the Scoutmaster.

Junior Leader Responsibilities

• Attend the PLC meeting as required by the junior leader position.

• Perform the duties of the position held and attend Leadership training course(s).

• Set the example for the other scouts in the troop – wear scout uniform, show scout spirit, live and act by the Scout Oath and Law.

• Meet the active participation requirement for the position held.

Scouts in leadership positions are expected to perform the responsibilities of that position, or resign the position.

Junior Leader Requirements

Senior Patrol Leader (SPL) must have earned the rank of Star and demonstrate active participation to run for the SPL position. (adopted 5/1/12) The SPL will be elected by the troop. A quorum of 2/3 of the active members of the troop must be present in order to hold an election

Other Junior Leadership positions (ASPL, QM, Scribe, Librarian, Historian, Chaplain Aide) must be First Class Scouts or above. Other leadership positions will be elected or appointed by the SPL with the approval of the Scoutmaster.

Patrol Leaders (PL) must have earned the rank of First Class Scout or above. PL will be elected by the patrols. A quorum of 1/2 of the patrol must be present for a PL election. The New Scout Patrol would be an exception to this rule.  The PL for the New Scout Patrols will rotate and be chosen by the members of the patrol with the approval of the Scoutmaster or his designate.  The PL will be responsible for naming his assistants and appropriate staff with approval of the Scoutmaster or his designate.  

The above guidelines can be waived by the Scoutmaster if Scouts of such rank are not available to fill these positions.

Scouts who are eligible for the office of SPL and PL, but know they cannot achieve active participation, should remove their names from the list of eligible Scouts to be considered prior to the election. Active participation is defined under “Attendance, Participation and Advancement’.

Uniform

Troop 4019 Class A uniform: Scouts and Scouters are required to wear their Class A uniforms to each Troop meeting (unless specifically indicated otherwise), to special events such as Courts of Honor, at designated times at Summer Camp and for all Boards of Review.

• BSA uniform shirt with green epaulets and the various patches properly displayed, and

• Neckerchief

• Scout shorts or pants with Scout socks

• Scout belt

• Merit Badge Sash once six merit badges have been earned worn for court of honor ceremonies, boards of review and uniform inspection

• Optional: official BSA cap

• Excessive jewelry should not be worn by Scouts and Scouters as this detracts from the Boy Scout uniform and posses a safety hazard.

Troop 4019 Class B uniform: worn to specific troop meetings and activities

• Troop 4019 Tee-Shirt or other BSA Tee-Shirt

• Long pants or shorts

• Socks, and sneakers / boots.

Scout uniforms and supplies may be purchased at the Five Rivers Scout Shop located in the Arnot Mall, Big Flats, NY.

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Code of Conduct

All Scouts of Troop 4019 are expected to follow the Boy Scout Oath and Law at all times.

Any person given the floor should be the only person speaking. All others will remain quiet unless otherwise directed by the Senior Patrol Leader, ASPL, Scoutmaster, or Assistant Scoutmaster(s). A Scout is Courteous.

Scouts of Troop 4019 will be respectful toward other scouts and their personal gear. This means there is no physical or verbal abuse of any kind toward another individual. This also includes tampering with and/or damaging another’s personal gear. A Scout is Friendly. A Scout is Kind. A Scout is Trustworthy.

Destructive horseplay or hazing is absolutely not allowed.

• Scouts of Troop 4019 will behave with respect and dignity at all Council, District, or troop activities.

• Scouts of Troop 4019 will behave with respect and dignity at all times toward all adults and parents and not just the Scoutmaster and Assistant Scoutmaster(s).

Disciplinary steps that will be taken with violation of the Code of Conduct are: 

1st Warning – The SPL will ask the Scout to conduct himself like a Boy Scout.

2nd Warning – The Assistant Scoutmaster(s) will ask the Scout to sit out a particular activity or the rest of the troop meeting.

3rd Warning – The Scoutmaster will ask the Scout to call his parent(s) to come pick him up.

After the 3rd warning, a counseling session with the scoutmaster, Scout, and parent(s) must occur before the Scout can participate in troop activities. If there is an on-going trend in behavior problems, the Scoutmaster will request that the Scout’s parent(s) attend all meetings and events.

Disciplinary Actions

The Scoutmaster, Assistant Scoutmasters, and/or the Troop Committee shall have the authority and discretion to contact parents and send home any boy who refuses to carry out the instructions of the Scoutmaster or his designated representative, or who, through his actions endangers lives, causes physical harm or damages property. In the event this occurs, the parents/guardians of the scout will be required to make arrangements to take custody of the boy. The Troop shall not be liable for any costs involved; this is the sole responsibility of the parents/guardian.

Any actions that might involve disciplinary action should be dealt with in strict confidence. The Scout's parents should be fully informed of the issue. Because serious or recurring behavioral problems may require the troop committee's involvement, the Scoutmaster should share discipline problems with the committee. Such problems should be addressed in a firm, fair manner with the goal to integrate the youth into the Scouting program. Together, the troop committee, parents, and Scoutmaster should work toward a solution with the troop's best interest in mind.

Attendance, Participation, and Advancement

Active Participation by Scouts is defined as participating in 75% of Troop meetings and 50% of Troop outings. Scouts in leadership positions are highly encouraged to participate in all Troop activities. Removed 3/2015

Active Participation is defined as:

• the scout is registered with the BSA

• the scout is in good standing with the troop

• the scout has made every effort to attend the majority of Troop meetings and outings. If the scout has fallen below the Troop’s level of activity he may not run for the SPL position however he may be selected for any other position of responsibility. (adopted 5/1/12)

• In order to advance from 1st class to Star, from Star to Life and from Life to Eagel, a scout must attend at least 1 camp out per rank. In the rare event that a scout achieves more than one rank at a time, he must attend that same number of campouts. (1 rank advancement=minimum 1 campout, 2 rank advancement=minimum 2 campouts, etc.) Adopted 3/11/15 by scout vote

• From the day a scout joins the troop until sitting for his Eagle BOR, the scout must have attended one fall, one spring, one winter and one Summer Camp out to achieve the rank of Eagle Scout. Adopted 3/11/15 by scout vote.

Attendance and Participation in Troop Activities: The scout must make every effort to attend the majority of Troop meetings and activities to satisfy the “active participation” requirement for the purpose of rank advancement. If after review of the scout’s attendance records, it is deemed the scout is not meeting the active participation requirement, the scoutmaster, through a scoutmaster conference, will discuss the attendance records with the scout. (adopted 5/1/12)

Attendance is mandatory at the Troop meeting immediately preceding a camp-out to assure the Scout intends to participate in the outing. If the Scout is unable to attend this meeting but still plans to attend the outing, he must contact his patrol leader. If the PL is unavailable, he can call the Scoutmaster. All money due must be prepaid to participate in any activity.

Rank Advancement: Each Scout is expected to take rank advancement seriously and advance at least one rank per year. The Scoutmaster Corps is responsible for signing off on rank advancement. Only under the direction of the Scoutmaster Corps may other adults or experienced Scouts sign off on Scouting skills required for rank advancement. Scout parents should not, in general, sign off on their own son's advancement; the Scout should demonstrate his proficiency to another Scouter.

Work at home on Scouting skills with parents, friends, or other Scouts is encouraged, but the Scout must demonstrate proficiency to the Scoutmaster Corps before signing off that requirement.

All Scoutmaster Conferences and Boards of Review for rank advancement must be completed at least one Troop meeting before a Court of Honor. 

Merit Badge Procedure

Merit badges are required for advancement and may be earned at summer camp, at the annual advancement fair, during merit badge night or independently.

• A list of approved merit badge counselors (MBC) is available from the scoutmaster

• Contact the MBC before beginning any work on the badge

• Obtain a Blue Card available from the scoutmaster for each merit badge. The card must be filled out, signed by the Scoutmaster, and returned to the MBC before starting work on a merit badge. Any work done on a merit badge before filling out the blue card will not be applied towards the merit badge.  

• A Scout should NEVER work alone with a merit badge counselor.  

Merit badge counselors must be 18 years old. A scout can help another scout with merit badge requirements but cannot sign off on them. Scout parents, who are approved merit badge counselors, are not allowed to be a merit badge counselor for their child unless the parent is counseling at least three other Scouts. Merit badge counselors must be registered with BSA biannually and be approved by the Andaste District Advancement Committee. 

Courts of Honor

Courts of Honor are normally held at least two times per year. Badges are presented to the Scouts at troop meetings as they are earned. All merit badges and rank badges are recognized or presented at Courts of Honor. 

Parents are encouraged to attend each Court of Honor to share in the Troop's progress and their son's achievements. 

Eagle Scout Courts of Honor recognize a special achievement and are held separately from other recognition. The Eagle candidate and his parents will do the planning for this extremely important recognition, including picking the location, ceremony to be used, and guests to be invited. We have available for parents a list of dignitaries to solicit letters of commendation for the candidate, examples of invitations, programs and ceremonies. The Troop will reimburse for refreshments and provide a gift at the ceremony. Refer to “Troop expenses” for maximum amount of reimbursement.

Members of the troop and their families are encouraged to attend the Eagle Court of Honor to show support and recognition for the Eagle Scout’s accomplishment.

Scout Expenses

1. Annual Dues: The annual dues for each scout in Troop 4019 is $50.00. It is due $25 in June and $25 in October. (Updated 10/25/17) Dues covers the annual rechartering fees as well as membership expenses, badges, awards, and other expenses incurred by the Troop as a whole. A Scout is deemed inactive if his dues is more than two (2) months behind. This amount can be earned by participating in troop fundraisers.

2. Uniform: It is the parent's responsibility to provide a uniform for the Scout. Money from the scout’s account may be used to purchase the Class A shirt. Each badge or award earned by any Scout will be purchased by the Troop the first time only. Replacement badges or awards must be paid for by the Scout or his parent(s).

3. Summer Camp: Summer camp costs are always increasing. Each Scout will be encouraged to earn this money himself through participation in Troop fundraisers or his own enterprise. Each year the Summer Camp Coordinator will provide parents with a monthly payment schedule, in order to minimize the financial burden of paying for summer camp. Camperships from the Council may be given each year to help Scouts attend summer camp who would not otherwise be able to go.

4. Outing Costs: Each scout shall pay for his own food for each campout or other activity. Patrols will assume responsibility for purchasing their food for campouts. The Troop will not reimburse Scouts for food expenses. Permission slips and campout money shall be collected by the Outdoor Activities Coordinator for that event and turned in to the appropriate adult leader one week prior to the activity. All money due must be prepaid to participate in any activity. Refer to “Troop Expenses, #4 Outing expenses and cancellation policy” for the refund policy.

5. Junior Leadership Training Costs: Scout must pay for the training course. After completion of course, troop will reimburse ½ the early bird course fee. (Added 2/22/18)

Troop Expenses

1. Major Expenses. The Troop shall be responsible for paying the following expenses from the general fund:

a. Troop Registration for active participation of Scouts and Scouters (annually)

b. Troop equipment (as needed - Committee Approval required)

c. Advancement pins, merit badges, rank patches, etc.

d. Junior Leadership Training Costs for Scouts (Committee Approval required)

e. Troop t-shirt (first one)

f. Boy Scout Handbook (first one)

g. Adult Leadership Training Costs for Adults (Committee Approval required)

2. Routine Expenses: In addition, the Troop has ongoing expenses which are normally paid from the general fund:

a. Bank charges, check printing and office supplies

b. Propane, and other immediate outing necessities

c. Eagle Court of Honor expenses not to exceed $150.00 per scout. This is $125 towards reimbursement for refreshments and $25.00 for a gift. The gift presented to the Eagle Scout from the troop should be an Eagle oriented item or could be a patriotic item such as an American Flag. The gift is usually presented to the Eagle Scout at the Eagle Court of Honor. (adopted 2/1/12)

3. Expenditure Approval: A vote of the committee will be necessary to approve any expenditure of Troop funds beyond the major and routine expenses described above. Approval must occur prior to the expense, or the individual runs the risk of non-approval and non-reimbursement.

4. Outing Expenses and Cancellation Policy (adopted 9/2011)

Fees for camp outs and activities are due at least one (1) week prior to the event. Scouts who do not submit their camping fees on time will not be eligible to attend. Exceptions to the one week deadline will be determined on a case by case basis at the discretion of the Scoutmaster. Camping fees are non-refundable when late cancellations occur after camp provisions and other perishable, non-refundable supplies are purchased for the event. Exceptions to the cancellation policy will be determined by the Troop Committee on a case by case basis.

5. Carpool / Mileage Reimbursement Policy (adopted 5/1/2012)

Mileage will be reimbursed at the current IRS rate for trips greater than 100 miles.

Drivers must transport 3 or more scouts to be considered a carpool. Drivers may request reimbursement after the scout trip has taken place. Reimbursement will not be provided automatically, drivers must request reimbursement from the troop’s treasurer.

6. Adult Chaperone Fees: (adopted 5/1/2012)

Adult chaperones are expected to pay for their own fees to attend scouting functions. The troop will provide fund raising opportunities to help pay for any fees that might be required. Adults may earn money by volunteering at troop BBQs and rummage sales.

Troop Financing

Rechartering and Fees: The process of rechartering is the annual collection of registration fees for the Scouts and Scouters. The Troop also makes a formal visit to the chartering organization to renew their commitment for the coming year. The process of rechartering the Troop must be completed by the end of December of each calendar year. Rechartering fees include (updated 10/25/17):

• $33.00 for national BSA membership

• $15.00 for Council insurance

• $12.00 for Boys Life magazine (optional)

Fundraisers: Fundraisers can only be conducted at the Troop level. No patrol, Scout, or Scouter may obligate the Troop or solicit monies on behalf of the Troop. Fund raising sufficient to support the Troop’s obligations is the responsibility of the Troop Committee. All scouts in the Troop will be afforded ample opportunities to participate in fundraisers to earn money to help pay for summer camp. Fund raising activities shall be supervised by the Fund Raising chairman and will be conducted as needed. Amount to be credited to individual scouts will be determined by the Troop Committee. Participation in the Council-sponsored Trails End Popcorn fundraiser is strongly recommended since the profits also support the Council camping program.

Individual Scout Accounts: To help defray the costs to parents the Troop maintains individual scout accounts. These are to give the individual Scouts a method to earn money that they can use for scout expenses. The Troop Committee Treasurer is the account administrator. The accounts are funded by troop money-raising projects. In some Troop fundraisers, a portion of the money earned goes to the Troop and another portion to the scout’s account. Money in a Scout’s account may be used for anything to do with Scouting. This would include fees for long term camping events (Summer Camp, Camporee, High adventure camp, Jamborees, etc.) or training sessions, expenses for select troop outings, dues and parent/chaperone expenses. The balance of each Scout’s account is maintained by the Troop Treasurer. It is the responsibility of the Scout to notify the Troop Treasurer when he wishes to apply the funds in his account to a given expense. 

Any money remaining in a Scout's account will be transferred to the general Troop account one year after he leaves the Troop or when he turns 18 years old. In the event a scout transfers to another Troop, this money will travel with the scout. (Removed 2/25/15 Troop committee)

If a scout decides to leave the troop, his account will be frozen until he has not been re-chartered or turns 18. (This whole section adopted 2/25/15 Troop committee)

• If a scout transfers to another troop, his money will travel with him to the new account.

• If he has a sibling in the troop, the money will automatically be given to the sibling.

• If no sibling, the treasurer will give the scout 1 month to decide between two options:

a. Donate the money to the troop account.

b. Divide the money evenly among the remaining scouts.

• After 1 month with no reply, the money will automatically go to the troop account.

• In the event the scout returns to the troop, every attempt will be made to refund the scout account using the general troop funds.

If the 18 year old scout registers as an adult scouter, his account will remain active until he is taken off of the charter.

Camp-outs and Special Outings

The National BSA camping goal is to conduct at least one special outing or function each month. 

A BSA tour permit and parental release/permission slip will be required for each outing before the scout will be allowed to participate in the event. BSA insurance policies, and Troop 4019, consider the activities to begin when the Scout departs the Church until he returns home.

BSA requires a minimum of two adult leaders for any event undertaken by Troop 4019. If the minimum of two adults is not met, the event will not be attended. One adult leader must be over the age of 21 with current Youth Protection training. The Scoutmaster &/or Assistant Scoutmaster are not required for all scouting events. Parental participation is encouraged. This rule applies to a group of eight boys in Troop 4019, if there are more than eight boys, more adult leadership is strongly encouraged so that everyone may enjoy the event.

In general, meeting time for camping trips is 5:30 PM on Friday night and pickup on Sunday at 9:00 AM. All trips depart from and return to Church of the Redeemer unless otherwise specified. Please refer to the parental release/permission slip.

Attendance is mandatory at the Troop meeting immediately preceding a camp-out to assure the Scout intends to participate in the outing. If the Scout is unable to attend this meeting but still plans to attend the outing, he must contact his patrol leader. If the PL is unavailable, he can call the Scoutmaster. The Scout must attend the Troop meeting before the camp-out, or make arrangements with his patrol leader. 

Money for camp-outs or other special outings and parental release/permission slips are due the Troop meeting before the event.

Each Scout is expected to provide his own water bottle, Mess Kit, knife/fork/spoon set, cup and necessary personal articles for each outing. Refer to the Boy Scout handbook chapters on Camping and/or Hiking for information on what to bring.

Camping guidelines:

• Scouts will normally camp and eat by patrols. 

• Scouts will not leave the camp area without permission or supervision of the adult leaders.

• Scouts will always use the "buddy system".

• No excessive noise after lights out.

• Troop 4019 encourages the Scouts not to snack during outings. Do not bring excessive food, drink or snacks.

• No food or drink allowed in tents.

• NO electronics (CD players, radios, tape players, electronic games, etc.) are allowed at meetings or on camp-outs or other outings. Electronics may be used during the travel period with driver permission. 

• Scouts should respect each others patrol area, and request permission before entering or crossing another patrol's camp. 

Physicals

A health history is sufficient for typical activities lasting less than 72 hours (Parts A and B of the BSA physical form). For activities lasting longer than 72 hours, a medical evaluation by a health-care provider is now required annually (Part C). For high-adventure activities for which medical care may be delayed, restrictions based on standardized height/weight ratios are now mandatory.

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, can agree to accept the responsibility of making sure a Scout takes the necessary medication at the appropriate time, but BSA policy does not mandate nor necessarily encourage the Scout leader to do so. Also, if your state laws are more limiting, they must be followed.

Equipment 

Scouts may use Troop equipment for patrol and troop sponsored events. The patrol quartermaster (QM) must submit requisition list to Troop QM two (2) weeks in advance of need. The Troop QM will notify the patrol QM as to the availability of the requested equipment.

The Wednesday before departure, the Troop QM along with the Patrol QM will pack all equipment at the Church so as not to delay departure on Friday night.

All equipment will be inspected prior to return. Damages will be billed to the individual Scout responsible. In addition, careless behavior with the equipment may result in the patrol/individual being banned from using certain equipment for a period if time to be determined by the SM, QM, or QM advisor.

Scouts and Scouters are reminded that the use of spray cologne, body spray and excessive use of deodorant is not allowed in the Troop tents. This practice can cause damage to waterproofing and could require the replacement of the tent at the expense of the user.

All rules apply to Adult Scouters also!!! 

PERSONAL or FAMILY USE OF ANY TROOP EQUIPMENT BY SCOUTS OR SCOUTERS is prohibited without the expressed permission by the Troop Committee and the Scoutmaster. We have experienced problems getting the equipment returned and in some cases the equipment has been returned damaged.

Adult Responsibilities

Troop Parents:

The role of parents within Troop 4019 is to support the Troop's efforts and to provide an 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.

• Support to both the individual Scout and the Troop by attending all Troop Courts of Honor.

• 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).

• Parents are strongly encouraged to volunteer for a committee or adult leader position, serve as a merit badge counselor, or sit on Boards of Review for the scouts on a rotating basis.

• Parents are strongly encouraged and are very welcome to attend various camping trips and events, please remember when on camping trips they are Troop 4019 Scouts! Not your sons!

The Troop cannot function without the active involvement of parents. As a boy joins Scouting we encourage at least one of his parents to join, also. Parents are welcome to observe weekly Troop meetings, but remember that these are the scouts’ meetings that have been organized by the PLC.

Adult Registration: (updated 7/25/15)

To join the troop, an adult (anyone age 18 or older) needs to complete the following.

• BSA application (ask for one from the scoutmaster)

• PA Act 153 Background Checks (refer to for more information)

• Youth Protection Training (YPT) (course taken online)

Application and certificates are turned into the scoutmaster. There should be no cost involved unless you need to do the FBI fingerprinting.

Automobiles:

ATTENTION BSA DRIVERS: DON'T ENTER THE RISK ZONE and BE AWARE OF KILLER FATIGUE.

It is essential that adequate, safe, and responsible transportation be used for all Scouting activities. Because most accidents occur within a short distance from home, safety precautions are necessary, even on short trips.

General guidelines are as follows:

• Seat belts are required for all occupants.

• All drivers must have a valid driver's license that has not been suspended or revoked for any reason. If the vehicle to be used is designed to carry more than 15 persons, including the driver (more than 10 persons, including the driver, in California), the driver must have a commercial driver's license (CDL).

• An adult leader (at least 21 years of age) must be in charge and accompany the group.

• The license drivers between the ages of 18-21 are subject to the following additional conditions

o No record of accidents or moving violations

o Parental permission granted by the leader, driver, and riders

• Trucks may not be used for transporting passengers except in the cab.

• Passenger cars or station wagons may be used for transporting passengers, but passengers should not ride on the rear deck of station wagons.

• All driving, except short trips, should be done in daylight.

• All vehicles must be covered by automobile liability insurance with limits that meet or exceed requirements of the state in which the vehicle is licensed. It is recommended that coverage limits are at least $50,000/$100,000/$50,000. Any vehicle designed to carry 10 or more passengers is required to have limits of $100,000/$500,000/$100,000.

• Do not exceed the speed limit.

• Do not travel in convoy (see "Leadership Requirements for Trips and Outings," No. 2).

• Driving time is limited to a maximum of 10 hours and must be interrupted by frequent rest, food, and recreation stops. If there is only one driver, the driving time should be reduced and stops should be made more frequently.

Troop 4019 makes every attempt to provide transportation to every event except summer camp. Carpools, 3 or more scouts, will be coordinated wherever possible, however the ultimate responsibility will lie with the parents.

Paperwork:

All carpool drivers must be registered on tour permits. As stated above, drivers must carry liability insurance of at least $50,000 (each person), $100,000 (each accident) and $50,000 (property damage). These limits are the minimum required by Pennsylvania. All riders must wear seat belts while traveling as required by Pennsylvania law. Parents and adult leaders must provide updated information about their vehicle(s) and associated insurance to the Troop annually. This information must be provided for each driver on every tour permit to the Council.

Permission slips should be filled out for each scout outing. The permission slip should state name of scout, date & time of departure and return, activity, location AND most importantly how to contact parent in case of emergency.

Meeting time for camping trips is generally 5:30 PM for Friday night at Church of the Redeemer.

Parents are responsible for picking up their sons after a Troop activity, or make other arrangements with another Troop Parent.

Pickup time for camping trips on Sunday is generally 9:00AM.

Adult Leaders:

Active participation by Adult Leaders/Scouters in these leadership positions is defined as participating in 75% of Troop meetings and 50% of Troop outings. (Removed 5/1/2012)

Active participation by Adult Leaders in leadership positions is defined as making every effort to attend the majority of all scout meetings and troop outings. (Adopted 5/1/2012)

Scoutmaster (SM): 

Deliver the Promise. The Scoutmaster is the adult leader responsible for the public 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 guidance will affect every youth and adult involved in the troop. The Scoutmaster is appointed by the chairperson of the Troop Committee. The Scoutmaster must be 21 years or older. The Scoutmaster must have successfully completed the Adult Registration. The Scoutmaster must be trained through BSA and recertification as required by the BSA.

The Scoutmaster's duties include:

• Train and guide boy leaders. 

• Work with other responsible adults to bring Scouting to boys. 

• Use the methods of Scouting to achieve the aims of Scouting. 

• Meet regularly with the Patrol Leader Council for training and coordination in planning troop activities. 

• Attend all troop meetings (or arrange for qualified adult substitute) and troop committee meetings. 

• Conduct periodic parents' sessions to share the program and encourage parent participation and cooperation

• Take part in annual membership inventory and uniform inspection, charter review meeting, and charter presentation.

• Develop with the troop treasurer an annual troop budget that plans for future equipment needs and fundraisers to pay for them.

Assistant Scoutmasters (ASM): 

The Assistant Scoutmaster has specific responsibilities and duties that are assigned by the Scoutmaster. The ASM can be any adult age 18 or older. The ASM must must have successfully completed the Adult Registration. The ASM must be trained through BSA and recertification as required by the BSA.

The Adult Leaders of Troop 4019 will always abide by the policies and procedures of BSA including the use of two-deep leadership. At all troop meetings and activities, at least one adult will have current Youth Protection Training per BSA policy.

The Adult Leaders are also subjected to behavior and disciplinary practices as well as the Scouts.

Troop Committee:

Active participation by Adults in this position is defined as participating in the majority of scheduled Troop Committee meetings.

1. Requirements

Any adult age 18 years or older may be a member of the Troop Committee. The adult must have successfully completed the Adult Registration. They also must take the Troop Committee Challenge training online.

2. Responsibilities

• Ensure that quality adult leadership is recruited and trained.

• In case the Scoutmaster is absent, a qualified assistant Scoutmaster is assigned. If the Scoutmaster is unable to serve, a replacement is recruited.

• Advise the Scoutmaster on policies relating to Boy Scouting and the chartered organization.

• Support leaders in carrying out the program.

• Responsible for finances, adequate funds, and disbursements in line with the approved budget plan.

• Obtain, maintain, and properly care for troop property.

• Ensure the troop has an outdoor program (minimum 10 days and nights per year).

• Serve on boards of review and courts of honor.

• Support the Scoutmaster in working with individual boys and problems that may affect the overall troop program.

• Provide for the special needs and assistance some boys may require.

• Help with the Friends of Scouting campaign.

• Assist the Scoutmaster with handling boy behavioral problems.

3. Key Committee Positions include the following:

a. Troop Committee Chairperson

b. Treasurer

c. Secretary

d. Outdoor Program Coordinator

e. Advancement Coordinator

f. Fundraising Coordinator

g. Membership Coordinator

4. Other Committee Positions and Subcommittees.

In addition to the Key Committee Positions, the Troop Committee Chairman will seek persons to carry out numerous other tasks such as:

a. Refreshments/Court of Honor Subcommittee

b. Board of Review Subcommittee

c. Troop Equipment Coordinator

d. Training Coordinator

e. Transportation Coordinator

5. Committee Meetings. The Key Committee Officers shall meet regularly to discuss Troop Business. Meetings shall be scheduled by the Troop Committee Chairperson. The meetings shall be open to parents, registered members of Troop 4019 and non-key Committee officers. Only adults registered with Troop 4019 have the authority to vote. A quorum of majority voting members must be present at any Committee meeting in order to vote on Troop business items.

6. Amending the Handbook. Amendments to the handbook may be made by majority vote of the Committee after introducing the amendment at one Committee meeting. The amendment will be voted upon at the next committee meeting.

7. Committee Approvals. As a minimum, the committee must approve the following:

a. Troop expenditures

b. Scouts to attend training events paid for by the Troop

c. Adults to attend training events paid for by the Troop

8. Board of Review. All Troop Boards of Review for Tenderfoot, Second Class, First Class, Star, Life, and Eagle Palms will be initiated by the Scoutmaster or his designate. The Troop Committee is responsible for conducting these reviews. A minimum of 3 adults and a maximum of 6 adults conduct the reviews. Parents of the Scout being reviewed and Scout leaders may sit in but cannot be members of the Board of Review. Eagle Scout Boards of Review are initiated by the District Advancement Committee Chairman and the Scoutmaster.

Scoutmaster Conferences will be held the first meeting of the month. These are scheduled with the scoutmaster on an as needed basis.

Boards of Review will be held the second meeting of the month. These are scheduled with the advancement chair on an as needed basis.

Boards of Review may also be held for Scouts who are not advancing, to determine how the program is working for the Scout.

Troop 4019 supports the BSA goal of having every new Scout advance to First Class within one year. However, we believe that in order to get the most out of the program the Scout should not advance too quickly.

Other Troop 4019 Policies

• Youth visitors at Troop 4019 meetings and events, under liability insurance purposes, are only allowed one (1) time to participate. They then must join as a Scout to continue participation.

• Scouts siblings at Troop 4019 meetings and events, under insurance purposes are not allowed to participate. Liability coverage does not extend to “family members” of Scouts.

• Fireworks are prohibited for all scouts. Please do not let your son bring these.

• Scouts are prohibited from operating all power tools.

• Smoking is prohibited as is the use of any tobacco product!!

• Alcohol is expressly prohibited at ALL scouting functions.

• Open flames are not permitted in tents.

• Scouts must have Totin’ Chip to use a knife, saw, or ax; and Firem’n Chit to light a fire.

• With regard to the Troop as a whole, no individual or group of individuals shall obligate or commit the Troop to participate in any civic, private, community, school, military, or BSA function without first informing and obtaining Troop Committee approval.

• This Troop 4019 handbook is not meant to be all inclusive as to cover all situations that might occur. All inquiries regarding the content of this handbook should be directed to the Committee Chairperson or Scoutmaster.

Directions to Camp Brule

Take Route 220 south to New Albany.

Turn right onto Mechanic Street (SR 3002) just past the New Albany library (small white building).

Follow road ~5.6 miles (you will go through small village of Overton).

Turn right onto SR 4016 (at bottom of hill) toward Campbellville.

Follow road ~5.6 miles (very winding with sharp turns and hills).

Turn right onto North St (Elkland Township T419) at white church on right.

Follow dirt road ~3.0 miles into Camp Brule.

Troop 19 normally camps in the Seneca campsite.

Directions to Camp Gorton

Take Route 17 west past Corning to the Savona exit (exit 40).

Turn right at exit and follow Route 226 north through Savona to Tyrone.

Turn left onto Rt 23 to Tyrone (immediately past Rt 23 coming from right from Watkins Glen).

Follow Rt 23 through villages of Tyrone and Weston.

Turn right onto County Road 25 (Waneta Lake Road) just past 55MPH speed limit sign outside Weston.

Camp Gorton entrance is on left ~1.5 miles from turn.

Troop 4019 Gear Guide

This gear guide is provided to help you and is by no way complete. The best source for gear info is from people who have been to where you are going or salespeople who actually use the gear they sell. Gear is expensive so take your time.

Getting started you will need a light, mess gear, sleeping bag and a duffel bag to carry everything. Everything else can come later as you get more involved and experienced.

Good gear is expensive. Buy the best you can afford. It’s generally better to borrow something to try it out first then go buy it. If you buy the cheap version most likely it will fail you when you need it most. The other expensive part of gear is the lack of weight; the lighter it is the more expensive it is. Weight isn’t a big concern when car camping however it is a major issue when backpacking.

I define car camping as being able to drive the vehicles into camp or to within a few hundred feet of where we will be camping.

Backpacking is carrying everything that you need on your back.

Backpacking gear can be used when car camping however the reverse is not true.

Some gear is best purchased in person (packs, footwear,) so that you can try it on. Others can be purchased sight unseen. Below are some places to buy gear.

• Taylor’s military surplus in Nichols (military surplus tends to be cheaper but heavier)

• Campmor New Jersey and online

• Cabela’s Hamburg and online

• Rei online

• Famous Brands in Watkins Glen

• EMS in Ithaca or online

Troop 19 will provide the tents, stoves to cook on and all the gear needed to cook the food.

FIRST AID KITS

Each person needs to have their own first aid kit. It is what we will use to fix YOU back up. In the past the troop has had a troop first aid kit, however due to current scout regulations we cannot carry most of the things in it we used to. We will still have band aids, gauze, tape, etc.

In your first aid kit you need to supply your own pills, pain, stomach, headache, etc. You will also need to supply your own goop, Neosporin, triple antibiotic, etc. Other items to include are band aids, small gauze, tape, scissors, tweezers, and latex free gloves.

Please have your first aid kit clearly marked and easily accessible. If we open your back it should be the first thing we find. Remember we will use YOUR first aid kit to put YOU back together, so make sure it is well supplied.

FOOTWEAR

Footwear is a very important piece of gear. Open toed footwear is prohibited on all scouting trips. Sneakers are not appropriate on most trips.

Hiking boots- This term covers everything from the older style all leather boots to modern sneaker type hikers. The type needed will depend on the type of trip. A few things to remember when purchasing footwear, waterproof, weight, traction, support and insulation.

Winter boots- These need to be waterproof and insulated. Try to buy boots that have removable insulation (felt packs) or boots that have the insulation completely incased in a waterproof material (mickey mouse boots).

Camp shoes- These are worn around camp at night. They serve several purposes, they let your day time shoes dry out, they are generally more ventilated and let your feet dry out, and they also have less traction and therefore don’t destroy the campsite as much. These can be older sneakers or a sandal type, closed toe only.

Open toed shoes- These are prohibited from being worn due to the possibility of many injuries. I will allow and would recommend them for showering. They can be worn during a shower. They are not to be worn walking to and from the showers.

Swim shoes- I would recommend them for playing in a pond, lake, river to prevent injury.

Bare feet- Are only allowed in a tent. If caught out of tent bare foot you will standstill until a friend gets you your shoes.

KNIVES

A folding pocket knife with locking blades is recommended. 1 or 2 blades are more than enough. A Swiss army type knife could be useful; however I have rarely seen most of those tools ever used. The scissors are the most useful.

A multitool again has its uses however they are few and far between. It’s generally recommended that one person in the group have one.

LIGHT

Handheld Flashlight- A small AA or AAA one is usually sufficient.

Headlamp- These are generally preferred due to them being hands free.

Lanterns-Battery operated ones can be nice in a tent in certain cases. They generally consume batteries quickly.

General notes on illumination:

• LED bulbs are preferred due to durability and energy efficiency

• Shake and/or crank lights are neat novelty items. They are generally heavier and bulkier than a battery operated ones. Wouldn’t recommend one.

• Solar ones are neat, but what if the sun doesn’t shine that day.

• Always bring extra batteries

MESS KIT

The type of mess gear needed will depend on the type of adventure. Backpacking gear is totally different than car camping gear. Backpacking mess gear can be used for car camping however the reverse is not true.

All mess gear needs to be reusable. No disposable or glass mess gear is allowed.

Plate – Would recommend for younger scouts due to that is what they are used to and when we are camping we generally do not sit around a table. With a plate balanced on their lap higher sides are useful. For an older boy or a backpacking trip a plate isn’t needed.

Bowl – This is usually the preferred. Everything that can be put on a plate works in a bowl.

Mug- An insulated mug could take the place of a bowl on a backpacking trip.

Cup- Can be needed depending on trip. Plastic or metal, a handle is nice so that a cord can be attached and then attached to belt or gear.

Fork- Do not need one. A younger scout might want one because that is what he is used to.

Knife- Not needed in a mess kit. A pocket knife takes its place.

Spoon- The most useful utensil. A plastic one, made from Lexan, or metal or titanium is needed. You can eat anything with a spoon. A spork is mostly a marketing thing.

Water bottle (canteen) - Required on every trip. These are available in metal or Lexan plastic. Either works fine.

Water bladder (platypus) - These are pack mounted water holding devices with a hose that comes over the shoulder. They hold a larger amount of water than most bottles. They are tough to clean and therefore present a disease issue. They also can be punctured, therefore making them useless. However they do have their place, depending on adventure.

PACKS

Fanny packs are waist belts with pouches. Limited space, lightweight.

Daypacks are used for what they sound like. They are a small pack that is used for day trips were you plan to be back to camp by night. You want enough room for the 10 essentials and whatever other gear you might need for the day. No room for a sleeping bag or tent.

Backpacking packs come in 2 styles and many sizes. They are used for overnight trips from 1 night to as many as you can handle.

• Internal Frame packs are generally narrower, taller and have fewer pockets. As the name implies the frame is inside the back. They are used when the trail is narrow or unblazed. They generally have little space between the pack and your back, which can lead to sweating, however they are considered to be more stable.

• External Frame packs have their frames visible from the outside, which leaves places to tie gear on. They have more pockets, which allows you to sort your gear by needs. They are able to withstand heavier loads. There is an air space between you and the pack, which allows better air movement.

Size recommendations

The shoulders of a human are not designed to carry weight. Therefore the hip belt is very important on a pack. It needs to be well padded and wide. It needs to sit on the hips, which can be a problem for young boys. It also needs to be fairly snug.

The shoulder straps are there to keep the pack from falling backwards ONLY. They help stabilize the load so you can maintain balance.

There may also be a chest strap, which keeps the shoulder straps closer to the center of the body for more stability.

Pack covers are just what they sound like. They are used to cover the pack whether on your back or leaning up against a tree. They are waterproof and usually have an elastic cord or drawstring.

Hiking sticks/staffs or Trekking poles are good items to bring with when carrying a pack. One is good, two are better. They give lots of stability when carrying a heavy pack or when hiking on uneven ground.

RAINGEAR

Raingear needs to be waterproof not water resistant. It also needs to be as breathable as possible. Some raingear will keep you absolutely dry from the rain but you will be soaked from sweat.

Ponchos are not recommended, the wind can blow them up or rain under them and they are almost impossible to backpack in. Therefore a rain coat and pants are recommended.

SLEEPING BAGS/PILLOWS/PADS

Sleeping Bags are made from many natural and manmade products, both of which have their benefits.

• Natural insulations for sleeping bags are generally made from down, very few wool ones. Down is wonderfully soft, but can compress easily, which leads to coldness, unless sewn into channels. It also becomes worthless when wet. They are generally lightweight. A boy must be very disciplined to carry one. Would not recommend for a beginner.

• Man-made insulations for sleeping bags are numerous. They also can compress though generally not as much as down. They are also sewn into channels or baffles. They are heavier, can be bulkier and can take a little moisture.

Whichever type of sleeping bag is used, you must remember that it is the only thing that will keep you warm at night. It is too big to bring a backup. After waking the bag should be aired, to dry out the nighttime moisture. After that it should be placed into a watertight container, even if left in a closed tent for the day.

A sleeping bag will have a temperature rating and/or a season rating. There is no standard for these ratings. A 3-season bag would be for spring, summer and fall. A 4-season bag could be used year around. Use the temperature rating as a guide. Everyone likes a different sleeping temperature or is hot or cold “blooded”. Don’t go for the lowest temperature offered if you don’t expect to use it in those temperatures. It is hard to make a sleeping make cooler. It is easier to put on more clothing in a cool sleeping bag. You should enter a sleeping bag with dry, clean clothing on.

Jack and Jill type- designed for couples, the 2 bags zip together to form one.

Rectangle style- generally a 3-season bag

Pros: more room

Cons: generally larger/bulky, generally colder due to extra space

Mummy style- used for cold weather camping

Pros: warmer, drawstring top

Cons: smaller

Sleeping bag liners are used to keep the inside of a sleeping bag cleaner. They offer minimal warmth but can be used alone in warmer climates. Generally made of a material that is not cold to the skin so when used in the winter time inside of a mummy bag the inside doesn’t feel as cold.

Sleeping bag cover or Bivy Sacks are used on the outside of a sleeping bag to keep it cleaner. They are also designed to keep a sleeping bag dry. Can be used alone. Generally used when not sleeping in a tent.

Pillows are generally considered a luxury when camping due to size. A compromise is to put clothing in the sleeping bag sack. Can be lumpy and generally doesn’t sleep well. There are inflatable ones that are filled manually with air, a good compromise. There are also compressible pillows that sleep better but take up more space.

Sleeping Pads are used under a sleeping bag for cushion and insulation.

Foam sleeping pads – Pros: generally cheaper, quieter, can’t deflate

Cons: bulky

Self- Inflating Pads – Pros: More comfortable, less bulky,

Cons: More expensive, nosier, can puncture, can be slippery

Inflating Pads (back packing type) - Pros: lightweight, very small when deflated

Cons: expensive, can puncture, can be noisy, need to be inflated by breathing into them

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