CAUTION: If you throw this flyer away before reading its contents, a small water capsule will burst causing a 20-foot dehydrated Boa Constrictor to re-generate. He will be very hungry.

a r a w . . 1 1

TROOPS

OF THE

Dear Parents,

Welcome to the Kent Stake multi-ward 11 year old scout Troop!! You and your son will have an opportunity to participate in a wide variety of exciting activities through which your son will grow and mature.

The aims of scouting are to build fitness, establish character, and promote citizenship. All of our activities are centered round these aims. Along the way each boy will find friendship, self-reliance, and build life-long memories. I am hoping that it will be lots of fun for him and you as well.

Over the many years that I have been a scout leader I have observed this pattern — boys without the involvement of their parents find it more challenging to reach milestones along their scouting journey than those who have home support. If you are not involved, your son will likely not stay involved in scouting. Your involvement, support, participation and encouragement (which may sometimes require pushing, kicking and shoving him along) during this crucial 11th year will lay a strong foundation for all future growth. Active participation in the scouting program will lead to continued participation in the Young Men's program which will result in developing an outstanding young man — This is my promise to you.

Please read the following booklet carefully, it contains the answers to most of the questions you may have. After you've read the booklet, please feel free to direct any other questions to me or any other leader in the troop. If you have any concerns, either now or in the future, please call.

On behalf of the Kent Stake multi-ward 11 year old Scout Troop, I welcome your son (and you) to Scouting. The friendships you develop will be life-long.

Yours in Scouting,

Mark D. Hanson Scoutmaster

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Table of Contents

1 GETTING STARTED.....................................................................................................................31.1 REGISTRATION **...................................................................................................................31.2 TROOP MEETINGS **.............................................................................................................31.3 YEARLY SCHEDULE **...........................................................................................................3

2 THE BSA ORGANIZATION.............................................................................................................32.1 TROOP COMMITTEE **..........................................................................................................32.2 TROOP ORGANIZATION **......................................................................................................42.3 PATROL ORGANIZATION **...................................................................................................42.4 PATROL METHOD **..................................................................................................................... 52.5 INSURANCE **.......................................................................................................................52.6 TOUR PERMIT **.....................................................................................................................52.7 PERMISSION SLIPS **.............................................................................................................2.8 MEDICAL CLEARANCE FORMS **........................................................................................2.9 YOUTH PROTECTION **.........................................................................................................32.10 SCOUT SHOP..........................................................................................................................

3 TROOP ORGANIZATION..............................................................................................................63.1 TROOP RULES **...................................................................................................................63.2 PATROL LEADERS' COUNCIL (PLC)**...................................................................................63.3 COURT OF HONOR **..............................................................................................................6

3.3.1 Planning the Court of Honor.................................................................................................63.4 TROOP AWARDS....................................................................................................................7

3.4.1 Tidy Camper Awards............................................................................................................73.4.2 Honor Patrol...................................................................................................................... 73.4.3 Camp in the Rain Award......................................................................................................7

3.5 UNIFORMS **•.........................................................................................................................73.6 TROOP MAILBOX **................................................................................................................73.7 ROSTER / PHONE LIST **.........................................................................................................73.8 OUTING SIGN-UP BOOK **.....................................................................................................73.9 PERMISSION SLIPS **..............................................................................................................83.10 EMERGENCIES.....................................................................................................................83.11 PARENT PARTICIPATION **..................................................................................................8

3.11.1 Basic Leader Training.........................................................................................................83.12 Advancement...........................................................................................................................8

4 OUTING EXPLANATIONS.............................................................................................................94.1 CAR CAMP.........................................................................................................................................................................................................................94.2 HIKE...........................................................................................................................................................................................................................................94.3 FORT WORDEN:.....................................................................................................................94.4 MT. SI: ....................................................................................................................................94.5 DUNGENESS SPIT:..................................................................................................................94.6 SCOUTING FOR FOOD:.............................................................................................................94.7 ELK FEED............................................................................................................................................................................................................................94.8 OHANAPECOSH..........................................................................................................................................................................................................94.9 SNOW CAMP...................................................................................................................................................................................................................94.10 APE CAVES:..........................................................................................................................94.11 CAMPOREE:..........................................................................................................................9

5 CAMPOUTS..................................................................................................................................95.1 PLANNING THE OUTING...............................................................................................................95.2 PACK INSPECTION **.......................................................................................................... 105.3 PATROL GEAR**..................................................................................................................I05.4 FOOD **................................................................................................................................10

5.4.1 Grubmaster **................................................................................................................ 105.5 MONEY **.............................................................................................................................105.6 MEETING PLACE **...............................................................................................................105.7 DRIVING **...........................................................................................................................10

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5.8 SETTING UP CAMP **................................................................................................................105.9 RETURNING **.......................................................................................................................... 10

6 CAMPING GEAR................................................................................................................................116.1 TYPICAL CAMP LIST **.......................................................................................................... 1 I6.2 WINTER CAMPING LIST **.................................................................................................... 116.3 BOOTS **......................................................................................................................................11

6.3.1 Fitting.......................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 116.3.2 Sealing: ................................................................................................................................. 11

6.4 WOOL / POLAR FLEECE (PF)**.............................................................................................. 126.5 RAINGEAR **..................................................................................................................................................................................................................................126.6 BACKPACK **.............................................................................................................................126.7 SLEEPING BAG **......................................................................................................................136.8 SLEEPING PAD **.................................................................................................................... 136.9 STOVES **...................................................................................................................................136.10 FIRST AID KIT **.................................................................................................................... 136.11 MISCELLANEOUS GEAR.........................................................................................................13Appendix A - TROOP HONOR ROLL...................................................................................................Appendix B - ADULT LEADERS..........................................................................................................

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GETTING STARTEDRead this booklet-All sections marked with **. Secure a registration form from an adult leader.

0 Fill out the registration form (front and back). Submit the registration form.Purchase a Boy Scout Handbook.Secure a uniform. (Section 3.5)

1.1 REGISTRATION **Secure a Registration form from one of the adult

leaders. Complete and sign the form and return it to a Scout Leader. Once a boy is registered the initial and subsequent registration fees are paid by the troop. All merit badge counselors are required to be registered. There is no fee for registering merit badge counselors.

The troop charter (the complete registration list) is updated once a year.

Boy's Life may be ordered at initial registration time. The cost is determined by the time remaining until charter expiration.

1.2 TROOP MEETINGS **Troop meetings are held every Wednesday from

7:15 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. at the Kent Stake Center. The Stake Center is located at 12817 SE 256th St., Kent 98030, From time to time, however, the troop may take field trips, have family activities, or go swimming.

1.3 YEARLY SCHEDULE **Each year the Scouts assist in planning the

activities that will take place during the coming year. The outings are listed on an annual schedule that is available at most meetings to both the parents and the boys.

In general, campouts or day outings are scheduled once per month. Typically, the weather will not affect the planned outings or campouts.

There may be several other activities offered by the District or Council each month. These are not required, but they offer the boys an opportunity to grow, as well as a means to progress in rank.

Each scout needs to attend 3 overnight outings plus 7 other troop or district activities during their first year. Attendance is required for advancement.

2 THE BSA ORGANIZATIONThe Boy Scouts of America defines a standard

organization for the structure of the troop. Recommendations are also made for the organization of activities.

2.1 TROOP COMMITTEE **The troop committee is composed of the parents,

bishopric members, primary presidents the Scoutmaster and assistants, and other interested parties.

The committee consists of: (see figure 1)

a) The Committee Chairman who conducts the meetings and is "in charge" of all the other members.

b) The Secretary who records the minutes of each committee meeting and publishes them to all families.

c) The Treasurer who oversees troop finances.

d) The Outing Chairman who helps coordinate the outings, arranges for rides to and from outings, and oversees the paperwork.

e) The Uniform Chairman who holds and distributes the troop's selection of uniforms, boots and wool clothes.

h) The Bishopric member (Institutional Representative) who represents the sponsor of the troop.

i)The Advancement Chairman who conducts reviews and tracks advancement in rank of each boy. They also help plan and oversee the Courts of Honor (see section 3.3).

j)The Scoutmaster and Assistant Scoutmasters who advise the boy leaders in running the troop.

k)The Primary Presidents or appointee who serves as a resource to families of the troop to answer questions and assist in their transition.

APL APL

4

Troop Secretary

Bishopric

Communications

Outing Chairman

Committee Chairman

Troop Treasurer

Primary President

Advancement Chairman

Scoutmaster

The troop is run by the Senior Patrol Leader and an Assistant Senior Patrol Leader.

The Assistant Senior Patrol Leader acts as "Patrol Leader" for the leadership corp.

The troop Quartermaster is responsible for troop equipment.

The troop Scribe records and distributes meeting plans.

The troop Librarian maintains the troop library of books, pamphlets, and merit badge books.

Other positions are filled on an as needed basis.

p

Pat eV Leacer Patio' Leace•

Assistant AssistantSM SM

Senior Patrol L e a d e r

C...z.r.Jlorlaster Grubr-7 aSterFigure 1

Committee organization

Committee Meetings: Committee meetings are usually held once per

month on a day and time selected by the committee. Currently these meetings are being held on the third Thursday of each month from 7:00 to 8:00 p.m. The business conducted usually centers around supporting the activities of the troop. Parents new to the troop will find this a good vehicle to voice their questions and concerns. All parents are encouraged to help in some way. This being the case, no one has too much to do, and the committee members have fun, instead of feeling that the entire burden of supporting the troop is placed on them.

The minutes of these meetings are available to all parents. If a spouse does not live at the same address as the scout and would like to receive a copy of the minutes please notify the Scoutmaster.

2.2 TROOP ORGANIZATION **The troop is organized into units of boys called

patrols. A typical patrol has 4 to 8 boys. Several patrols make up the troop, (see figure 2).

It is our desire to adhere as closely as possible to the BSA method. while following the counsel and policies given us by our Priesthood leadership.

The oldest patrol of boys within the troop comprises the leadership corps.

tr err ber rnerr:oer

ASPL

Sc.1)e

Gar• err aster

strLctor

Figure 2 Troop Organization

2.3 PATROL ORGANIZATION **The patrol is the core group of scouting. Each

patrol of 4 to 8 boys forms a complete, independent group. The scouts work together, compete together, hike together, and camp together.

It is the patrol leader's responsibility to inform his patrol of all non-standard activities such as a meeting time or location change, if special activities are to take place, or if patrol members are to bring something extra to a scout meeting.

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Each patrol will have a patrol leader, (PL) lie will represent his patrol at the Patrol Leader's Council, (PLC) on the first Wednesday of the month.

New Scouts who join after having "bridged over" from Webelos form a "New Boy Patrol".

All patrols will have an Assistant Scoutmaster; (ASM) assigned who will focus their attention on that patrol, and help the PL when necessary to ensure the 'patrol method' is being followed. The ASM will act as the Troop Guide to help the patrol learn the patrol method, plan menus, how to cook, etc. covering the leaders with liability insurance) and, 2)

provides the BSA with a basis for recording actual nights of camping. The tour permit is also a way to ensure that there are at least two adults on every outing (one 21 or older, the other 18 or older). The tour permit tells where the outing will take place, how long, etc.

2.7 PERMISSION SLIPS **BSA requires a permission slip to be filled out for

each boy for each outing.

2.4 PATROL METHOD **The patrol method is the basis for meeting the

three goals of scouting: building character, establishing citizenship, and promoting fitness. The patrol method means that the patrol works together as an independent unit. Scouts hike, camp, cook and eat by the patrol method. The patrol leader facilitates his patrol and ensures they are ready for troop activities. See the Boy Scout handbook for more details.

2.5 INSURANCE **The Boy Scouts of America requires each troop to

have insurance. This is medical insurance that will append the scout family's insurance. In addition, the Chief Seattle Council has liability insurance for troop leaders.

Drivers of vehicles transporting scouts to/from outings are required to have minimum Washington State liability insurance ($50,000/100,000/50,000). Parents may be asked to take their turn driving:

2.6 TOUR PERMIT **The mechanism to notify the Boy Scouts of

America (Chief Seattle Council) of any planned troop outing is the tour permit. The "tour leader" is required to fill out this form and send it, deliver it, or fax it to the Scout Office and receive reply prior to leaving:

Chief Seattle Council3120 Rainier Ave. S.Seattle, WA 98144-6095Phone # (206) 725-5200Fax # (206) 725-2862This accomplishes two things: 1) it provides

additional insurance for the troop outing (as well as

2.8 MEDICAL CLEARANCE FORMS **Some outings may require additional medical

clearance from your physician. You will be informed if additional medical clearance is needed for either you or your son to participate.

2.9 YOUTH PROTECTION **BSA ensures the safety of participating youth and

adults by establishing the following guideline:No fewer than four individuals may go on any outing, two of which must be adults (one adult must be BSA registered and over 21).

An annual youth protection training is provided to both scouts and adults in the troop.

2.10 SCOUT SHOPThe Scout Shop is a good place to purchase

uniforms, accessories, merit badge books, memorabilia, and camping gear (that would not otherwise be purchased at a sporting goods store such as REI). The Chief Seattle Council Scout Shop is located in South Seattle (by Franklin High School) at:

3120 Rainier Ave. S. Seattle, WA 98144-6095 Phone (206) 721-5945Hours M-F 8:30-6, Sat 10-3

Essentially, the same things can be purchased in Tacoma at the Pacific Harbor Council Scout Shop located just off of Hwy 16 from the Union Ave. exit:

1722 S. Union Ave. Tacoma, WA 98405Phone (253) 752-7731Hours M-F 8:30-5, Sat. 10-2

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3 TROOP ORGANIZATION

3.1 TROOP RULES **PLEASE REVIEW THESE RULES WITH YOUR SON:

Each and every scout is expected to live up to the ideals of scouting in order to achieve the aims of the program. The following may be obvious but will be restated here:1. Swearing and using God's name in vain is not

allowed.2. Lying, stealing, cheating is forbidden.3. "Sheath Knives" - knives that don't fold into

themselves may not be used except by special permission of the Scoutmaster.

4. When hiking;a)stay on the trail - don't "cut" switchbacks.b)stop at every intersection and wait for the

group to assemble.c)never pass the designated leader (an older

scout assigned by the tour leader).d)hike until the group stops - don't take

breaks independently.e)the leader will make the decision to stop as

needed to rest and wait for the entire group to assemble.

I) groups must be no smaller than two.5. When camping:

a)don't "trench" tents.b)cut no live trees. branches, bushes, shrubs

nor carve. score or otherwise destroy vegetation.

c)camp at least 100 feet from lakes, streams, etc.

d)never wash/rinse dishes in lakes, streams, etc.

e)keep all soap at least 200 feet from lakes, streams, etc.

I) use only existing fire pits - make no new pits.

g)leave no litter (even if the site had litter upon arrival).

h)bury human waste at least 6 inches deep and 200 feet from water.

i)don't bury garbage, litter, extra food, etc.j)pack it in, pack it out.

6. Scouts should regularly attend meetings. If prolonged absence is anticipated (going away for the summer, etc.), notify Scoutmaster.

7. Scouts must attend at least one outing each quarter year. Only under special circumstances will less participation be acceptable.

8. Scouts must attend a regular overnight outing prior to attending a "snow" outing; unless they must get special permission from the Scoutmaster.

9. Failing to attend an outing, after committing to do so. does not cancel any obligations the scout has made. Please notify the Scoutmaster or tour leader if there is to be a "no show".

10.Be prompt for meetings.11.Be prompt in arrival for outings or call

Scoutmaster to notify him that you are going to be a little late.

3.2 PATROL LEADERS' COUNCIL (PLC) **

The PLC meets the first Wednesday of every month at 6:45 p.m. prior to the troop meeting. It consists of the Senior Patrol Leader (SPL), Assistant Senior Patrol Leader (ASPL), other troop leaders, and patrol leaders. The PLC is responsible for running the troop with adult intervention as needed. All troop and patrol leaders are required to attend the monthly PLC meetings; however, all boys are welcome to participate.

The PLC plans and conducts the weekly troop meetings and is instrumental in planning the yearly schedule of activities.

3.3 COURT OF HONOR **The Court of Honor is a ceremony conducted by

the boys where they receive official recognition for their achievements. These include rank advancement, merit badges, segments for certain participation, and other awards and badges. Parents and families are encouraged to attend this function. Both scouts and their parents are honored for rank advancement.

The troop typically conducts a Court of Honor three times per year. Dates are provided in the troop schedule.

3.3.1 Planning the Court of HonorIf your son has been asked / volunteered to

conduct the Court of Honor, read this section.Typically. the boys' parents help the scout in

setting up and planning the Court of Honor. The Troop Advancement Chairman will play a major role

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in assisting you. The Court of Honor planning should start about 3-4 weeks prior to the event.

The troop advancement chairman will provide a sample program and agenda. The scout conducting the court of honor needs to prepare the printed program and ensure that ample programs are available at the ceremony. In advance, the scout should ask parents to present the rank awards, boys to conduct the various ceremonies (flag, etc.). and boys to report on the various activities that have transpired since the last Court of Honor. He and/or Ins parents should also ensure that refreshments are available. The troop will reimburse the scout/parents for incidental expenses. The Troop Advancement Chairman is responsible for detailing the advancements to be presented as well as securing the necessary badges/awards. The scout should make sure the room and kitchen, if used, are cleaned up at the end of the event.

3.4 TROOP AWARDSFrom time to time, certain special awards may be

presented:

3.4.1 Tidy Camper AwardsThe Tidy Camper Award is a special recognition

for scouts in our troop. It is not an official BSA award and cannot be worn on the scout uniform. This award can only be earned while camping. To earn the tidy camper award, every member of the patrol must have a "perfect" campsite for the entire duration of the outing. A "perfect" campsite is defined as one with absolutely no litter at any time during the outing, meals are cooked properly, dishes washed properly, gear is always in order, etc.

The intent of this award is to promote camping excellence. If the patrol wants to "earn" this award, they should notify the Scoutmaster at the beginning of the outing. He is the only leader who can award it.

3.4.2 Honor PatrolThe "Honor Patrol" is a ribbon that may be

awarded at the Court of Honor to a patrol that has shown exemplary patrol cohesiveness. The potential patrol would regularly hold patrol meetings, each member would have an assigned task (grubmaster, hikemaster, assistant patrol leader, patrol leader, etc.) and would work well as a group. They would be attending hikes, campouts, and other outings. The

members would be quickly advancing. This award is also a "troop only" award.

3.4.3 Camp in the Rain AwardWhile it often might drizzle or rain on an outing,

occasionally, it will POUR. For those rare instances, the "DON'T COMPLAIN, CAMP IN THE RAIN" award might be presented.

This award is also a "troop only" award.

3.5 UNIFORMSThe official troop uniform is a short sleeve shirt,

short pants or jeans, and neckerchief. Scouts all wear the same Troop neckerchief. The neckerchief will be presented to the "new scout" at the Bridging Ceremony. Upon demonstrating proficiency with a rope they will construct the troop woggle .

Uniforms MUST be worn to all scout meetings. Uniforms should also be worn to Scouting for Food, Camporee, and other activities where the scout is in public.

Uniforms can be purchased from the Scout Shop (see section 2.10).

3.6 TROOP MAILBOX **Each family has a folder in the file box available at

troop meetings. Announcements, schedules, committee meeting minutes, etc. are made available to parents via the folders.

3.7 ROSTER / PHONE LIST **Current boy and adult leader rosters are updated as

needed and are placed in the folders. Extra copies are usually available at troop meetings.

3.8 OUTING SIGN-UP BOOK **Boys and adults sign up to attend outings in a 3-

ring binder located with the mailbox at troop meetings. Each outing is listed by month and is found under the corresponding tab in the binder. Boys must be signed up to attend outings no later than the Wednesday night before the weekend outing - a parent must initial to show that they are aware of the scouts commitment to attend the outing. Please cross off your name if you find you are unable to attend.

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3.9 PERMISSION SLIPS **Once again, a permission slip is required for each

boy for each outing. These are usually available the Wednesday prior to the outing or at the time you drop your boy off. If you will not be dropping off your boy, be sure you have filled out a permission slip ahead of time. ANY BOY WITHOUT A SIGNED PERMISSION SLIP WILL NOT BE ALLOWED TO ATTEND THE OUTING.

3.10 EMERGENCIESYOU MUST NOTIFY THE TOUR LEADER

E A C H A N D E V E R Y T I M E Y O U R S O N ATTENDS AN OUTING if your son has any special medical problems (asthma, hypoglycemia, etc.) or requires special medication.

All medications should be given to the tour leader at the beginning of each outing.

3.11 PARENT PARTICIPATION **Fathers are invited to attend any campout. All

outings are manageable for an 11 year old, certainly fathers can do them. Some day outings may be appropriate for all family members. Please check with the Scoutmaster if you are interested in attending. Parents are discouraged from eating with their sons as the scouts are encouraged to practice the "Patrol Method". The only exception is the Senior Patrol Leader who often eats with the Scoutmaster / Tour Leader. Fathers can practice the patrol method as well by assigning a grubmaster for the outing and sharing such duties as watennan, firebuilder or stove-starter, cook, dishwasher, etc. just as the scouts are expected to do.

Please leave your pets at home.

3.11.1 Adult Leader TrainingAll adults, and especially those who hold

leadership positions in the troop, are encouraged to attend the Adult Leader Training Course offered by the Council. The best way to understand what your boy will be going through is to experience it yourself through the Adult Leader Outdoor Skills Course. This course will provide you the opportunity to learn and experience the Boy Scout program first hand.

Youth Protection training is required for all BSA registered volunteers, regardless of their position.

3.12 AdvancementRanks are outlined in the Scout Handbook.

In general. new Scouts should focus their attention on earning Tenderfoot, Second Class and First Class.'

Once they are First Class, Scouts should start investigating the merit badge program. There are often "merit badge" clinics and opportunities to earn merit badges at summer camp. Don't miss these opportunities. (The point is that new Scouts typically need to earn the first 3 ranks first, and then work on merit badges.)

The process is:1) Select the merit badge of interest

2) Secure the merit badge book (the troop has a library from which you can borrow), the local library has them available to check out, and they are available for purchase through the Scout Shop (section 2.10). To get the most out of the merit badge, you'll need to read the booklet completely.

3)Requirements and worksheets can be downloaded from www.meritbadge.com

4)Together with the Advancement chairman, select a merit badge counselor and fill out a blue merit badge card.

5)Prior to starting any actual work on the merit badge, contact the counselor and ask him/her how they would like to proceed. Some want you to come in for a visit prior to starting, others want to see you when you're done.

6)Never visit a counselor alone. Take a buddy who's working on the merit badge with you, take your parent or friend. Remember the rule of three.

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4 OUTING EXPLANATIONS

Below is a list of many of the "typical" outings:

4.1 CAR CAMP:Car Camp means drive in and set up camp - no

backpacking.

4.2 HIKE:Overnight. Usually a 3-8 mile backpacking trip.

Standard backpacking gear required, see section 6.1.

4.3 FORT WORDEN:Overnight. Scout skills practiced and enough time

to explore the bunkers. Standard camping gear required, see section 6.1.

4.4 MT. SI:Day hike up Mt. Si near North Bend. About 3500'

gain in about 4 miles. Bring rain gear, sack lunch, and water.

4.5 DUNGENESS SPIT:Overnight car camp. A five mile hike to the

lighthouse and a chance to explore the local wildlife. Standard camping gear required, see section 6.1.

4.6 SCOUTING FOR FOOD:Day activity. (two Saturdays). First week,

distribution of bags and second • week, pick up of food. Wear Scout uniform. Parents needed to drive.

4.7 ELK FEED:As many as 5000 elk come down out of the

mountains during heavy snows and are fed by the Dept. of Wildlife. Scouts get to ride on the hay truck and feed the animals. You may see big horn sheep and deer.

4.8 OHANAPECOSH:Overnight car camp. Sleep inan old-growth forest

on Mt. Rainier. Camping gear required, see section 6.1. 4.9 SNOW CAMP:

Backpacking trip. Troop hikes in less than one mile and learn to build igloos and snow caves. We may sleep in them overnight. If this is the scouts first troop backpacking trip they will need permission from the Scoutmaster.

Usually held at Paradise on Mt. Rainier. Drivers must have chains in their vehicle. Popular outing. Fathers may camp and family members may come up for the day. Special gear required, see section 6.2.

4.10 APE CAVES:Day activity spent exploring the lava tubes near

Mt. St. Helens. Bring lunch, water, and flashlights with extra batteries and bulb. Must have a helmet.

4.11 CAMPOREE:All troops in Green River District (Kent, Renton)

camp and compete in scout skills. Each year the Green River District conducts an outing where each patrol competes in games and contests (the Camporee). This is an excellent opportunity for your scout and his patrol to show off their skills. Usually parents are invited to view the games, contests, and attend the campfire.

5 CAMPOUTS5.1 PLANNING THE OUTING

The location of the outing is planned by the adult leaders, the boy leaders, or both. The designated "Tour Leader" has veto power (and often has "suggestions" for suitable locations). Campouts are generally scheduled every other month.

A "typical" outing would start by being scheduled by the PLC (Patrol Leader's Council). Most of the outings for the year can be found on the "troop schedule" which runs from January to December. The outing is discussed by the leaders at the committee meeting at which time the parents can get further details about the outing.

To develop the leadership skills of the boy leaders, they are assigned as much responsibility as they can handle. The boys may orchestrate the entire outing, or may only pick the "type" of outing, with the remaining details determined by the adult leaders. It is dependent on the stage of development of the members of the PLC.

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5.2 PACK INSPECTION **Particular outings require special equipment and

thus a "pack inspection" is necessary. This usually happens the Wednesday or Thursday prior to the outing.

5.3 PATROL GEAR **Prior to an outing, each patrol leader should make

sure that the patrol is equipped with enough tents for everyone to sleep in, a "dining fly" (a lightweight tarp - usually nylon under which to eat while it's raining). one or two cooking stoves, cooking pots/pans, and other items as a particular outing necessitates.

5.4 FOOD **On the Wednesday before the outing, the scout

should have decided if he will attend the outing (parents should also know if they will attend, drive to/from, etc.). At the Wednesday meeting prior to the outing, scouts from each patrol will plan a menu, and select a "grubmaster" who will make all food arrangements and assignments.

5.4.1 Grubrnaster"If it is your son's turn to be the grubmaster, please

read this section:Most new scouts will need some guidance from a

parent the first few times they are grubmaster. Your son should come home with a list of menus and he will most likely need some help to determine appropriate portions and to make food assignments. But please keep your help to a minimum as this is a learning experience for the entire patrol.

The grubmaster also needs to consider and obtain cooking utensils, pots/pans and seasonings/ condiments that will be needed to prepare and enjoy the food.

The grubmaster is ultimately responsible for food. An organized grubmaster may want to call his patrol members before the outing to remind them of their assignments.

5.5 MONEY**There are usually no expenses for outings,

however, it is always wise to send your son with a

few dollars for that occasional stop for fast food on the way home.

5.6 MEETING PLACE **The "typical" outing will leave from the Kent

Stake Center either Friday early evening or Saturday morning. The key word here is LEAVE. You should plan to arrive at the meeting spot ten minutes prior to the departure time. If you are driving, fill your car with gas prior to arriving. It is quite inconsiderate to have the boys and adults waiting for that last boy (or driver) to show. Please call even if you will be a few minutes late.

BE ON TIME !!!

5.7 DRIVING **Every parent is expected to do his/her fair share in

supporting the troop. You may be asked to drive (see also "insurance" section 2.5). Please note, BSA requires every passenger to have a seat belt (and use them). Please ensure that your passengers are "buckled up".

It is the intent to plan outings so that the distance to pick-up/deliver does not require an extraordinary amount of time, however, it's also difficult to plan an outing with less than two hours each way.

5.8 SETTING UP CAMP **Scouts will camp, cook, and conduct themselves by

the "Patrol Method". Each patrol camps within the troop area, but apart enough to be a separate group. The days of "cutting bough beds", "trenching tents" and "making lean-to's" are gone forever. Creating new campsites is almost always forbidden. If fires are allowed, they can only be built in existing fire pits, no new ones are to be established. Campsites are usually located at least 100 feet from the water (lake, creek, river, etc.).

5.9 RETURNING **At the time you drop off your son for an outing,

you should ask the Tour Leader about the expected return time. Plan to pick up your son at from the Kent Stake Center unless otherwise informed. Boys typically call home upon return. If times change drastically, a contact person will be informed.

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6 CAMPING GEAR

6.1 TYPICAL CAMP LIST **Below is a list of gear required for a typical

backpack or car camp outing:El boots (section 6.3)

rain gear (section 6.5)backpack (section 6.6)

El sleeping bag (inside a stuff bag inside a plastic bag) (section 6.7)sleeping pad (section 6.8)

El personal first aid kit (section 6.10)flashlight with extra batteries and extra bulb

El knife, fork, spoon, cup, plate[] matches and candle[] extra clothes[] extra food

soap & towelOptional equipment includes:[] Scout book11 gaitors[] stove[1 map and compass[] camera

The Scout uniform may be required for some outings (when in public).

6.2 WINTER CAMPING LIST **For winter outings, in addition to the "typical

camp list", the following is mandatory:

wool/polar fleece (PF) pantswool/PF shirtwool/PF sockswool/PF hatwool/PF glovesrubberized gloves (Igloo outing)waterproof ground cloth (igloo outing) sunglasses and sunscreen (suggest PF>35)

********************************4c********A PERSONAL NOTE FROM THE

SCOUTMASTERThe above requirements are not negotiable. 1 have

learned by experience that wool/PF MUST be worn to ensure the health and safety of your son.Your son MUST HAVE WOOL/POLARFLEECE CLOTHES TO ATTEND THE WINTER OUTINGS. *****************************************

6.3 BOOTS **

Boots are essential items and care should be taken to find a pair that will be adequate for the anticipated activities. Parents may be reluctant to purchase "good" boots in anticipation of their son growing out of them the following year. This is a valid concern, nevertheless, "good" boots are necessary to the safety and comfort of your son. In only rare cases will "tennis shoes" be allowed (or adequate).

A second alternative to purchasing new boots is to purchase used boots (no surprise there). REI has a supply of used boots. The advantage of securing used boots is that they are already "broken in" and they typically will conform to the foot faster than "new" boots (or perhaps it is more accurate to say that the foot will conform faster to the boot). Don't forget thrift stores as another option.

Rubber boots ("insulated rubber boots") are not adequate - they have little or no support and are unacceptable.

"Work boot" (high top leather boots from Redwing, etc.) may be acceptable foot support for most hikes. But when scouts are carrying their packs, the side support to the ankles offered by this soft leather won't do. "Climbing boots" (either leather or plastic) offer excellent support (both arch and ankle), and are quite acceptable for both hiking and climbing. "3/4 steel shank" is preferred over "full shank". If you can afford this type of boot, you should purchase these.

6.3.1 Fitting:Boots are usually worn with two pair of socks

(typically a polypropylene first sock and a wool outer sock). Clearly, boots should be fitted with two pairs of socks on. Climbing boots should fit so that when they are on (and tied) the toe does not rub against the end of the boot. This can be tested by standing on a steep incline (such as is available on a shoe fitters stool) and trying to "push" the toes to the end of the boot with one's weight. The heel should be tight enough not to rub on the heel of the boot. Don't buy boots that the scout will "grow into and have room for next year". Serious blisters and discomfort will result from improperly fitting boots.

6.3.2 Sealing:All leather boots should be sealed. Waterproof

boots mean dry feet, dry feet mean warm feet, warm feet make happy campers. Cold feet are simply

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miserable. Cold wet feet lead to cold wet feet with blisters which are VERY miserable. Much attention must be paid to making the leather waterproof. Waterproofing starts at the "Welt" or the seam that joins the upper part of the boot to the sole. Welt sealer penetrates the stitching. It is typically the consistency of nail polish (but not nearly so brittle). It is effective only if applied before any other sealer to new boots.

"Spray Silicon" has been found to be nearly useless in waterproofing the leather. This leaves two types of sealers: oil-based and wax-based. Oil-based sealant ("Hubbard Boot Grease") should only be used on leather finished with an oil-based tanning process (most these days are wax-based). Putting an oil-based sealant on wax-based leather may cause the leather to stretch (sometimes a lot). REI sells a wax-based sealant ("Snowseal") that is quite adequate. Several other types are available (and also more expensive e.g. "mink oil").

To put the sealer on requires time and patience (failing to put it on with time and patience probably will result in wet feet). The method that seems to work the best is as follows:

1) Heat the family oven to "low".2) Remove the boot laces.3) Put the boots on the oven door on some

newspaper keeping away from the oven elements.

4) Bake until warm.5) With newspaper spread all over the kitchen

floor, remove one boot and spread wax all over the boot with fingers.

6) Exchange boots and continue with step 5.7) Repeat this process approximately 20 times until

boots are well saturated with wax.8) Repeat applications periodically

Experience with hundreds of boys with wet feet has proven that waxing the boots only a few times is not adequate. Experience with hundreds of boys has also proven that they don't believe the above statement until they have had cold wet feet from only a few applications. This observation is offered free of charge in the comfort of your own home. The scout may have a different observation during an outing depending on the time and patience used in preparing his boots.

6.4 WOOL / POLAR FLEECE (PF)**Wool and PF are the only fibers that continue to

insulate when wet. Cotton, (e.g. blue jeans or

sweats) when wet, cause the body to lose heat at a rate 30 times that of bare skin. Consequently, wool/PF clothing is required for all winter outings. Experienced scouts will bring wool/PF clothes on a regular outing over any other type.

So where can you get wool/PF clothes? Camping stores like REI carry a fair selection of wool/PF clothes. They have an excellent selection for older boys and adults but only a fair selection for 11 year old boys.

One suggestion is to try women's size small or extra small. "Army Surplus" and "Navy Surplus" stores also have a good selection (again for adult sizes) and are usually considerably less expensive. Consider thrift stores, garage sales, and second hand stores where these items can be purchased for only a few dollars.

You will not find wool/PF clothes at these "thrift" stores if you start looking the Thursday before the campout. You should start looking months in advance.

Another alternative is to sew wool/PF clothes using a conventional pattern (it is suggested that you use nylon instead of cotton for the pockets, facing and waistband). You could also borrow wool/PF clothes from the older scouts.

6.5 RAINGEAR **Rain Gear is mandatory for all outing's. Rain Gear is defined as a WATERPROOF jacket

and WATERPROOF pants. A poncho is unacceptable. Plastic rain gear is inadequate (clear plastic "hunter's rain gear").WATERPROOF is defined as the ability to

permanently shed water. A good test is to stand in the shower wearing the

rain gear over a cotton shirt. If after 20 minutes, the cotton shirt is wet, the rain gear isn't waterproof. Nylon jackets are seldom waterproof.

Good rain gear can be purchased from REI for about $20 per piece. This is a reasonable cloth backed vinyl material with some durability that is still flexible when cold. Excellent rain gear can be purchased for around $200 (Gortex). Coated rip-stop nylon is a very good compromise, comfortable, durable and at a cost of about $40 (watch the newspaper for sales).

6.6 BACKPACK **A good backpack is essential for comfort while

hiking. Care should be taken in backpack selection.

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A common mistake is not with the pack, but with the choice of hip belts. There are two common types:

I) two straps that are pinned to the pack frame,2) a padded hip belt that circles the waist and is

attached to the pack with straps.Style #1 is cheap and ineffective. Style #2 evenly

distributes the weight of the pack onto the hips. Any salesperson that would sell you such a pack is ignorant of what is required.

REI has a good selection and is probably the best choice for getting a first backpack. Don't try to.pick it out yourself, ask a salesperson for help. The backpack must be "fit" (the REI salespeople are competent and won't sell you junk).

6.7 SLEEPING BAG **Sleeping bags come in a wide variety of styles and

types. Typically, each scout will need a "4 Season" bag (i.e. usable 4 seasons of the year). Bags are rated for a minimum temperature. Unfortunately, this rating does not take into account the metabolism of the scout. One scout in a -10 degree bag may still be cold at +15 weather, while another may be comfortable at +10 degrees with a +20 degree bag. The sleeping bag should be made of nylon, polyester and filled with goose down or polyester fibers.

6.8 SLEEPING PAD **In order to insulate the scout from the ground, a

sleeping pad is necessary. Listed below are several types of sleeping pads.

insulite, open cell / closed cellB)"Therm-a-rest"C)foam rubberD) air matt ressE) c o t s

The main purpose of the pad is insulation, the secondary purpose is padding. Consequently, closed cell foam is more than adequate for most scouts.

Adults may wish to consider a "Therm-a-rest" that also provides for extra comfort - the ground seems to get harder as one gets older. Foam rubber is not advised as it acts as a sponge. soaking up water, getting the sleeping bag wet which results in a cold wet scout.

Air mattresses don't provide very good insulation but do provide good padding. An air mattress that won't leak is both heavy and expensive. Most experienced scouts find an air mattress unreliable.

Cots will find little use while backpacking.

6.9 STOVES **Most cooking is done utilizing a backpacking stove

and there are several types available. Eventually each scout should have his own stove but, since they can be expensive, parents may want to consider giving them as gifts for birthdays or Christmas.

6.10 FIRST AID KIT **Each scout should carry a personal first aid kit. A typical kit should include:

2 - 4" X 4" sterile gauze pads 4 - 2" X 2" sterile gauze pads an assortment of Band-Aids a triangular bandagescissorsmoleskinan antibiotic creamfirst aid tapegauze rollaspirinmatchesneedletweezers

Each patrol should have a more complete first aid kit and each Tour Leader will also have a more complete kit.

6.11 MISCELLANEOUS GEARYou may wish to include a camera, a light book to

read, a star chart, Uno cards, a lantern, rain fly/dining fly, sit pads, backpack cover, sewing kit, whistle, extra cord/rope, extra garbage bags, fishing pole, telescope, etc. However, all this weighs extra, and has to be carried, sometimes for miles uphill.

Radios, portable media players, iPods, electronic games, fireworks, etc. should be left at home. Cell phones must be left with the outing leader.