TROOP 76 HANDBOOK For Scouts and Parents

2014

www.troop76.info

Dear Scout and Scout Parent, Welcome to Troop 76! We're excited to have you join us on a journey that will help you grow into great young men and can eventually lead you to your Eagle rank in Scouting. We are extremely proud of our program and can't wait to share it with you. As you travel this trail, advancing from rank to rank and learning new skills, you and your parents will have many questions. I hope this booklet will help you get some quick answers to some of the more common questions that come up about Scouting and Troop procedures and expectations. This booklet focuses on how Troop 76 works, with some other quick reference info on things we've learned over the years. It doesn't take the place of your Boy Scout Handbook, which has all the information you need on rank advancement, merit badges, and more details on learning the core skills you'll need. Of course, you can always call me or any of the other adult leaders if you still have questions that these sources don't answer. We are all here to help you. The goal of Troop 76 is to build leadership, confidence and skills (both for the outdoors and life) in an atmosphere that is always fun and friendly. Everyone at Troop 76 joins me in welcoming you! Yours in Scouting, Dan Carr Scoutmaster 2

Dear New Scouts and Parents, I want to take this opportunity to welcome you to Boy Scout Troop 76. I hope you enjoy the Troop as much as my son and our family have. Scouting can take you anywhere, and perhaps help you decide where you want to go. While the Scoutmaster and assistants work directly with the boys, the Troop's administration is handled by the Troop Committee of adults of which I am the current Chairman. Our main job is to work closely with and support the Scoutmaster in delivering what we believe is the best program around. The Troop Committee meets on the first Thursday of every month, in the Parson’s Study at 7:30 p.m. One of the marks of a successful Troop is active parent participation. While the most involved parents often become Assistant Scoutmasters, there is always something to do to help the troop even if you can't always be at meetings or aren't a big camper. Troop 76 has always had excellent participation on the Troop Committee, and we are always looking for new people with new ideas to help. As Chairman, I gladly welcome all new parents (both Moms and Dads!) to attend our meetings and to become members of the Committee. One side benefit of attending is that boys who have parents active in Scouting tend to do very well. Remember one of the goals of Scouting is to have FUN. This goes for adults as well as for Scouts. Membership in our Committee is the first step for adults to also enjoy the fun of Scouting. I am looking forward to working with you and your son and hope you both have a fine career in Scouting. If you ever have any questions or concerns, please be sure to contact the Scoutmaster or me. John Mundt Troop Committee Chairman 3

All troop members live by the Scout Oath, Law, Motto, and Slogan. We recite these at the start of every troop meeting. The Outdoor Code, the Troop 76 Guiding Principles and the Troop 76 Code of Conduct provide additional structure. THE SCOUT OATH On my honor, I will do my best To do my duty to God and my Country and to obey the Scout Law; To help other people at all times; To keep myself physically strong, mentally awake, and morally straight. THE SCOUT LAW A Scout is Trustworthy, Loyal, Helpful, Friendly, Courteous, Kind, Obedient, Cheerful, Thrifty, Brave, Clean, and Reverent. THE SCOUT MOTTO Be Prepared THE SCOUT SLOGAN Do a good turn daily THE OUTDOOR CODE As an American, I will do my best to, Be clean in my outdoor manners, Be careful with fire, Be considerate in the outdoors, and Be conservation minded.

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TROOP 76 GUIDING PRINCIPLES

1. Do everything with Scout Spirit. • Follow the Scout Law, Oath, Motto and Slogan • …while at Scouting events and outside of Scouts. • …in public and in private. 2. Always act to make the troop stronger and to make each other stronger. • Keep troop traditions, build on them, improve them, create new ones. • Put others first. The more you give to the troop and each other, the more you’ll get out of it. 3. We will be Scout Led under the guidance of adult leaders. • We lead each other by example; we learn from each other’s example. • Scout led does not mean that Scouts get to do whatever they want, however they want. • The adult leader’s job is to listen, encourage, advise, and guide. Adults will direct or step in only as needed. • Adults are not the center of attention. Adults support the chain of command. (“Did you ask your Patrol Leader?”) • “Never do anything for a boy that he can do for himself.” ─ Baden-Powell

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TROOP 76 GUIDING PRINCIPLES, continued 4. We will do things in Scout-like ways. In addition to Scout Spirit, we’ll: • work as Patrols. • get comfortable with and learn from adults besides our own parents. • build strong character, citizenship, and physical and emotional fitness. • • • • •

wear the uniform. We are a team, part of something bigger than ourselves. improve one of the strongest outdoor programs around. focus on rank advancement. learn new things to grow personally. work hard to develop ourselves and each other into leaders.

5. Scouts earn. • Privileges are earned. • Independence is earned. • Responsibility is earned. • Leadership is earned. • We should appreciate opportunities and take advantage of them. 6. We must trust and respect each other. 7. We’ll be safe. 8. We’ll have fun!

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TROOP 76 CODE of CONDUCT •

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Respect others at all times. Treat others as you would like to be treated. Take care of troop equipment as if your own. Give your full effort in everything you do. Always do your best. Give back to others. Contribute your services back to God, Community and Country. Work as a team on all tasks. Working together leads to a successful community. The possession of alcoholic beverages, tobacco or illegal substances is strictly forbidden. If found or detected, parents (and/or police if necessary) will be notified immediately and disciplinary actions pursued. Scouting provides a fun, stress-free environment for learning how to be a leader and good citizen. No teasing, harassing, hazing, verbal or physical abuse will be tolerated under any circumstances. No outside games, toys, sporting or electronic equipment are allowed at meetings or on camping events without the approval of the Scoutmaster. The use of matches and lighters is restricted to Patrol Leader positions and above and may be used only when appropriate and safe. Use of knives, saws and axes only when appropriate and safe and only if Scout has a Totin’ Chip card. Use the buddy system on all troop activities. Reporting a concern or problem: Level 1 – Patrol Leader / Assistant Patrol Leader Level 2 – Senior Patrol Leader / Assistant Senior Patrol Leader Level 3 – Assistant Scoutmaster / Jr. Assistant Scoutmaster Level 4 – Scoutmaster 7

This booklet does not replace the Boy Scout Handbook This booklet is intended to provide Troop 76-specific information and address frequently asked questions about the Scouting program. The Boy Scout Handbook has almost everything you need to know about gear and how to use it, rank advancement requirements, merit badges, core Scout skills and other important information. Troop 76 History The First Church of Christ, Simsbury, chartered Troop 76 in 1921. As Simsbury’s oldest Boy Scout troop, we marked our 90th anniversary in 2011. Today we have over 80 Scouts and 30 adults registered as members of Troop 76. We have been recently awarded the Matianuck District's Outstanding Troop Award, and have earned the district’s Golden Tent Peg award multiple times in recognition of our camping program. Troop 76 Scouts earn the Eagle rank at a rate much higher than the national average.

Application / Registration / Dues Each new Scout must fill out a standard Boy Scout of America application form and medical form (parts A & C). Complete forms should be submitted to the Membership Coordinator along with a check for the required dues to cover registration and materials. Regular Troop dues are payable in September. Dues left unpaid by November 1 disqualify a Scout from participating in ANY Troop activity until dues are brought up to date. Funds are available for those in need. Any family with financial concerns should speak to the Scoutmaster. 8

Meetings We meet on Thursday evenings at the First Church of Christ, 689 Hopmeadow Street, in downtown Simsbury. Meetings are typically not held on school holidays or breaks. First Thursday of each month: •

Scout Leadership meets in the Parson’s Study at 6:30 pm with the Scoutmaster and an Assistant Scoutmaster to plan the upcoming month's meetings. The Scout Leadership includes Senior Patrol Leaders, Patrol Leaders, other troop leadership positions and older Scouts with advanced rank.

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Adult Leadership meets in the Parson’s Study at 7:30 pm. Adult Leadership includes the Scoutmaster, Assistant Scoutmasters, Troop Committee Members and any other interested adults. All parents are welcome and encouraged to attend the adult meeting.

All Thursdays except first Thursday: The entire Troop meets in Palmer Hall from 7:00 to 8:30 pm on the second, third, fourth, and fifth Thursday of each month.

When Should I Start Coming to Meetings? If you are crossing over from Cub Scouts, you become a member of Troop 76 when you complete your Crossover Ceremony. When you cross over the bridge, THAT NIGHT you became a Boy Scout and can begin attending troop meetings. If you were not a Cub Scout, you became a member of Troop 76 as soon as you turned in the Boy Scout Application. You can begin attending troop meetings right away. 9

What Are the Different Types of Meetings? •

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Regular Troop Meeting – upcoming events are discussed, skills are taught and practiced, and the meeting usually finishes with a fun game. Once a month the regular troop meeting gives the Scouts opportunity for rank advancement. There are two components: ¾ Scoutmaster Conference – the Scout and the Scoutmaster or Assistant Scoutmaster discuss the boy's progress, Scouting experiences, activity in the troop and understanding and practice of the ideals of Scouting. ¾ Board of Review – a Scout's progress is examined by three members of the Troop Committee and his advancement is given the final stamp of approval. Boards of review are scheduled at one meeting each month. Scouts need to make an appointment for a board of review with the Advancement Chairman one week in advance. Court of Honor – a formal award ceremony, held four times a year in place of a regular troop meeting, where Scouts are presented the rank and merit badges they have earned since their last court of honor. Families are encouraged to attend. Patrol Meetings – members of a patrol meet to work on rank advancement and prepare for campouts, troop meetings or other events. These meetings may be held at a Scout's home, before a regular troop meeting, or some other time/place with at least two parents there. Eagle Court of Honor – a special evening recognizing the accomplishments of a Scout who has earned the highest rank in Scouting. Families and younger Scouts are encouraged to attend. This is a very inspirational event that will help keep younger Scouts motivated to achieve their own rank advancement. 10

Scouts with Special Challenges Troop 76 has members with various interests and abilities, and our program offers activities that challenge and reward all our members. All Scouts are encouraged to Do Their Best in a supportive environment. Scouting is a program of opportunities. Troop 76 strives to create an inclusive Scouting community for all Scouts, including those with special needs. The Scouting program includes provisions for alternative rank advancement requirements for those Scouts with physical and/or intellectual challenges. BSA has resources that provide information and guidance about special needs to troop leaders. While this generic information can be very useful, we recognize that every individual is unique. We will be able to provide the best support for your son when we understand his individual needs. Please discuss your son’s needs with the Scoutmaster and Assistant Scoutmasters. Be open, and be assured that information you share will be kept confidential.

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Medical Issues A completed BSA medical form (parts A & C) is required for all Scouts. Be sure to include information about allergies (bee sting, peanut, etc.), asthma and/or any other condition that could result in the need for urgent care during a Scouting activity. Please discuss any medical issues that your son may have with the Scoutmaster and Assistant Scoutmasters so we may provide better care for him if required.

Parental Participation Parent’s participation and support are critical. • Support and encourage your son. • Make Scouting a priority. • Support the adult leaders (but please ask questions). Become active in the troop. The Scouts who succeed and earn Eagle are typically the Scouts with involved parents. Every parent should do a little: as the saying goes, many hands make light work. Although Scouting is often thought of as a man's activity, we fully encourage moms to participate as well. Attending the Troop Committee meeting the first Thursday of the month is a great way to begin to participate. Troop 76 encourages parents to gain a better understanding of the Scouting program by completing the following three BSA training courses: • This is Scouting • Fast Start: Boy Scouting • Youth Protection These courses, which require less than one hour each to complete, are available on-line at myscouting.scouting.org. After creating an account to establish a user name and password, click on “E-Learning” on the left side of the screen. Then click on the “Boy/Varsity Scout” tab on the box at the bottom of the screen to view the courses. 12

The Scout Uniform The Scout uniform has always been an important part of the Scouting program. The uniform represents Scouting’s spirit of equality and democracy, identifies the boy as a brother to every other Scout, and builds pride in the patrol and troop. The uniform should be worn to all troop meetings, boards of review, special troop events, district and council activities, and national Boy Scout programs. Class “A” Uniform: The Scout shirt, neckerchief (troop supplied), and neckerchief slide, are required for all Scouts in Troop 76. Either the traditional or the new “centennial” uniform is acceptable. Official Scout pants, shorts and socks are encouraged but are not required. Pants in tan, brown, or green colors will meet the requirements for pants. Shorts in the same colors will also be acceptable. We do not allow plaid, multicolored, camouflage, or fluorescent jams, baggies, athletic or other casual pants or shorts. Jeans are not acceptable for a court of honor or a board of review. Accessories, such as a merit badge sash may be worn at the court of honor. Order of the Arrow sashes are to be worn only at OA functions. Baseball caps (other than Scout hats), scarves, or other head coverings are NOT allowed at Scout ceremonies or in Troop formation. 13

Here is what to wear for troop events: • Scout uniform shirt • Council patch, "Connecticut Rivers Council" • International Brotherhood of Scouting patch • • • • •

Neckerchief Neckerchief Slide Epaulet Covers Rank Badge Troop 76 unit numbers, 90th anniversary patch

  Supplied by Troop 76

The Class “A” Scout uniform is not worn for campouts unless specifically called for by the Campmaster Uniforms and other Scout items can be purchased from the Connecticut Rivers Council Scout shop at 60 Darlin Street, East Hartford, telephone 860-291-0286, or from the BSA Supply Division on-line at www.scoutstuff.org. You can find other stores that stock Scout uniforms using the “find a location” feature at scoutstuff.org. Class “B” Uniform: The Troop 76 “class B” uniform t-shirt is worn for some casual activities. A class B t-shirt is given to each Scout as they join the troop. Additional class B shirts may be purchased from the troop.

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The Scout-Led Troop One of the major differences between Cub Scouts and Boy Scouts is the Boy Scout emphasis on leadership development. Troop 76 provides leadership training to Scouts as they advance to Patrol Leader-age, and then a refresher once they reach high school. Selected Scouts will also attend advanced leadership training at the council level.

CAUTION

LEADERSHIP DEVELOPMENT IN PROGRESS! It’s not always pretty, but that’s when they’re learning.

Empowering the Scouts to be leaders is the core of Scouting. Scouts learn by doing. They learn by leading their patrols and their troop. The Scouts themselves develop a troop program, and then take responsibility for figuring out how they will achieve the goals. One of the adult leader’s most important challenges is to train boy leaders to run the troop by providing direction, coaching and support. The Scouts will make mistakes, but adults will destroy the learning opportunity if they step in and take over. Only through real hands-on experience as leaders can Scouts learn to lead.

“Train 'em, trust 'em, and let 'em lead!” ‘Green Bar Bill’ Hillcourt

In Scouting parents will meet others with similar values and goals for their children. Parents will build good friendships with the others and they can provide support and parenting suggestions. Scouting is a way to become a better parent through association with and the help of like-minded adults. Adults, however, need to keep in mind that they are here for the Scouts. 15

Patrols Patrols are the building blocks of the Scout troop. A patrol is a small group of Scouts, typically 5 to 8, led by a Patrol Leader that functions as a unit during troop meetings, campouts and other activities. Working together as a team, patrol members share responsibility for their success, gain confidence, enjoy friendship and a sense of belonging. A patrol typically meets twice a month outside of the regular troop meetings. New Scout Patrols New Scouts crossing over from Webelos will be assigned to a patrol made up of other new Scouts, with an experienced Patrol Leader (1st class or above, experienced Scout) and Assistant Patrol Leader (1st class, experienced Scout). The members of this patrol will be your Scout family for your first few months in Scouting. From your Patrol Leader, Assistant Patrol Leader, senior Scouts and adult leaders, you will learn the basic requirements necessary to complete rank advancement up through the rank of First Class Scout. Venture Patrol Scouts who achieve Star Rank and are 9th grade or above participate in the Venture patrol. In addition to participating in regular troop activities, the Venture patrol has its own, usually more rigorous and challenging, activities. The Venture patrol also provides mentoring and leadership to younger Scouts, and runs many troop activities.

What is the correct adult response to almost any question asked by a Scout? Did you ask your Patrol Leader? 16

Rank Advancement Scout ranks can be divided into two major categories. The Scout, Tenderfoot, Second Class and First Class ranks are based on learning Scout skills. The Star, Life and Eagles ranks are based on merit badges, leadership and service.

As you learn different Scouting skills, they will be "signed off" in your Boy Scout Handbook by the Scout that did the teaching, most often your Patrol Leader. Skills should be practiced at home, at patrol meetings and at troop meetings. Over subsequent weeks your proficiency will be "tested" either on a one-on-one basis, or through games and competition in the Troop. Please note that a Scout does not need to complete all requirements for one rank before working on requirements for a future rank. For example, a Scout can work on and get signed off on requirements for First Class while still a Tenderfoot or Second Class Scout. Once your Patrol Leader is satisfied that you have retained the necessary knowledge, sign up with the Advancement Chairman for a Scoutmaster conference and a board of review (typically held once a month during a regular troop meeting). The board of review is the final step for each rank advancement. Unlike Cub Scouts, where a Den will typically advance as a group, in Boy Scouts rank advancement is an individual activity. Your patrol and troop is there to help you advance, but your advancement depends on your initiative. 17

How Fast to Advance? Troop 76 participates in an enhanced advancement program because experience has shown that boys who advance in rank tend to stay in Scouting. Scouts are encouraged to attain their First Class rank within their first year of membership in the troop. This is NOT to say that EVERY Scout MUST or WILL make First Class Scout within a year. We encourage each Scout to advance according to his ability and desire. Most Scouts that are reasonably active and attend campouts will complete the First Class rank within about two years of joining the troop. In short, we provide each Scout with the opportunity, the tools, and the instruction necessary to make the advancement possible the rest is up to him. Many members of our Troop advance to Eagle rank.

Rank advancement is made much easier when the Scout participates in summer camp.

Merit Badges A “blue card” signed by the Scoutmaster is required before working on a merit badge and becomes the official record of the work completed. • For merit badges offered within the troop, the merit badge counselor typically handles the blue cards. • For merit badges to be worked at summer camp, the troop will hold a sign-up meeting where blue cards are completed and signed in late June. • For a merit badge that a Scout is working on their own, the Scout must obtain a blue card signed by the Scoutmaster and then contact the merit badge counselor before starting work on the merit badge. 18

Merit badges are part of Scouting for two reasons. First, they encourage a Scout to learn the Scout skills, and second, they open the doors to hobbies, occupations, and other interests. A Scout must earn 21 merit badges for the Eagle rank. Of these 21, 12 are specifically required for Eagle and are taught either within the Troop or at summer camp. The Troop holds Eagle-required merit badge classes on a regular basis. A Scout may work on his own for other merit badges that interest him. Troop 76 has a class for the First Aid merit badge every year in the fall. This is an important badge and should be taken as soon as possible. Records of Scouting Activities It is important to keep records of your Scouting activities. Scouts need to save the merit badge “blue cards” as the official record showing that a merit badge was earned. Blue cards must be submitted with an Eagle rank application as documentation of merit badge completion for any merit badges earned after January 2010. While the troop keeps records of attendance at troop meetings, Scouts should keep records of participation in: • Campouts • Patrol meetings • Service projects Active participation and service hours are required for some rank advancements, and a minimum number of nights camping are required for the camping merit badge (Eagle required) and some special honors. You can keep records on pages provided in The Boy Scout Handbook, or using your own method. 19

Troop 76 Outdoor Program Campouts We are an enthusiastically outdoor oriented troop that camps out at least one weekend each month, every month of the year. We also schedule a number of more challenging campouts and high adventure trips for our Venture Scouts (minimum Star rank and 9th grade). Our outdoor program accommodates all ages and skill levels. Our camping schedule is planned months in advance by our Scout leadership and always has adequate adult supervision in accordance with BSA requirements. Summer Camp In some ways summer camp is the most important part of the program, a time when the whole Scouting experience comes together. Experience has shown that new Scouts tend to feel more a part of the Troop and progress through advancement steps with greater confidence if they attend summer camp. Most Scouts earn their first two or three merit badges during the first summer at camp. Camp Mattatuck, located in Plymouth, Connecticut, is on our schedule for early July. Scout camp runs Sunday through Saturday. Families are invited to come to Family Night on Wednesday evening for a picnic supper and a campfire program. Adult supervision is required at camp and parents can sign up for both day and night shifts. Special parent/Scout meetings will be held to more fully explain summer camp early in the spring.

Baden-Powell said: Never do anything for a boy that he can do for himself. 20

Leave No Trace Troop 76 follows Leave No Trace principles in conducting our outdoor program. Leave No Trace reminds us to respect the rights of other users of the outdoors as well as future generations. Leave No Trace is an awareness and an attitude rather than a set of rules. It applies in our backyard or local park as much as in the backcountry. More details on Leave No Trace can be found in the Boy Scout Handbook. Dressing for Outdoor Activities Dressing in multiple layers allows for easy adjustment of clothing to regulate body temperature at various activity levels. Over-dressing for the weather and activity level can cause overheating, leading to sweating that will dampen clothing. Damp clothing will make you cold as the moisture evaporates. Adjust your layers as needed to keep warm while avoiding sweating. Drop a layer as you start to hike because the exertion of hiking will generate additional body heat. Add a layer when you stop hiking because your body will be producing less heat so more insulation is needed to stay warm. Synthetic materials are best for outdoor activities. Synthetics wick moisture away from your body, retain their insulating properties even when wet, and will dry quickly. Wool will retain its insulation capability when wet, but can be very heavy if wet and is slow to dry. Cotton is dangerous outside in cold weather. Cotton will retain moisture, is slow to dry, and loses its insulation properties when wet. Cotton clothing is not permitted on winter camping trips. 21

Camping Equipment Recommendations First of all, we recommend that camping equipment be purchased from a good quality camping equipment store such as: • LL Bean (llbean.com) • REI (rei.com) • Eastern Mountain Sports (ems.com) • Campmor (campmor.com) • Scout Direct (scoutdirect.com) • BSA Supply Division (scoutstuff.org) Look for sales or closeouts; it is not necessary to spend hundreds of dollars on gear. Walmart or other discount or toy stores are fine for basic gear noted below, but not for sleeping bags or backpacks. The troop will occasionally hold a used gear sale where younger scouts can purchase gear from older scouts. Sleeping Bag We strongly recommend a mummy-style (hooded) sleeping bag filled with one of the newer synthetic materials (Polarguard, Climashield, Hollofill, Primaloft). We do not recommend down sleeping bags for young Scouts. A sleeping bag rated to 20° F will be fine for everything except winter camping. For winter camping a Scout can use two bags, one inside the other, as a cheaper alternative to a full winter bag. Sleeping bags, in their stuff sacks, must be able to be attached securely to the pack frame with straps or bungee cords. Sleeping Pad To put under a sleeping bag for insulation off the ground and a comfortable night's rest. A closed cell foam pad such as the Therm-a-Rest Rigid-Rest or Z-Rest is a good basic choice, and best for cold weather. Self-inflating pads are another option. Inflatable pads are not good for cold weather since they do not provide insulation from the ground. The choice is up to you and your checkbook. 22

Backpack We strongly recommend an external frame backpack with a padded hip belt. Make sure the frame is correctly sized to your Scout and can be adjusted to fit the Scout as they grow. The pack should hold at least 3,000 cubic inches / 50 liters. Internal frame packs look cool and are easier to find, but rarely hold a new Scout’s gear. For the money, an external frame pack is more versatile and will fit younger Scouts better. The Jansport ”Scout” and Kelty “Yukon 50” or “Yukon 48” are good options. Hiking Boots Make sure they're comfortable, fit well and are broken in. Sneakers and running shoes are ok for dry, warm weather campouts and hikes without a backpack. Boots with ankle support are needed for backpacking trips. For winter campouts, Scouts need winter boots. Almost any store is fine for hiking boots for younger Scouts, who don’t need the support system in expensive boots and who will outgrow them quickly. Eating Gear A mess kit is ok, but a plastic bowl, fork, and spoon work just fine and are less expensive when something gets lost. A small Rubbermaid sandwich container or bowl with a lid works great. A traditional metal mess kit contains extra cooking gear that Scouts do not need since there is cooking gear in the patrol boxes. Drinking Cup best.

A plastic, insulated cup with a handle is

First Aid Kit The troop has a complete group-size first aid kit. A Scout should also bring a personal first aid kit (see the Boy Scout Handbook). All injuries must be reported to an adult leader. Rain Gear Either a raincoat or poncho will do. Your choice. Toiletries Toothbrush and toothpaste. Bar soap in a soap dish or plastic bag, or liquid soap in a plastic bottle. All packed in a kit or plastic bag with a small hand towel. A 1/4 roll of toilet paper in its own bag. For a full week at summer camp bring a larger toilet kit with a full size towel for showers. 23

Water Bottle / Canteen Nalgene or similar, 16 oz / 0.5 liters to quart / liter size. Gatorade bottles work great. Good to have a loop and carabiner to clip the bottle onto packs, belt loops, etc. A backpack hydration system can be nice, but is much more expensive and can freeze up in winter. Flashlight Any type will do, but a LED light will last much longer on a set of batteries and virtually eliminates having the bulb burn out. A headlamp is a convenient option. Always carry a spare set of batteries, just in case… Pocket Knife Troop 76 joins many other troops and Scout camps (including Philmont) in prohibiting sheath knives. A folding pocket knife with a locking blade is best. Maximum blade length 3.0 inches. The cheapest knives will not hold an edge, making them more dangerous. Please note the Scouts must have earned a Totin’ Chip before they can carry a knife at a Scout meeting or event. Compass Orienteering style compass with a rectangular plastic base and a lanyard. Walmart is a good choice here. Emergency Whistle Can be heard much farther away than a voice. Note that many backpacks have whistles incorporated into chest strap plastic buckles. Backpack Rain Cover A less expensive alternative is to line the pack with a large plastic garbage bag.

Please note that Troop 76 does not permit personal tents for younger Scouts. Younger (non-Venture) Scouts are assigned to use troop tents on campouts. Sharing a troop tent with other patrol members reinforces working as a team, builds patrol spirit and teaches responsibility for troop gear. In addition, tents see a lot of wear, and we do not want personal property damaged on a trip. 24

Troop Supplied Gear Troop 76 provides tents, stoves and cooking gear that is used by younger (non-Venture) Scouts. This equipment is purchased with funds raised by the Scouts during our annual holiday wreath sale. Treating this gear with care and respect is a responsibility shared by all member of the Troop 76 family (Scouts, parents and adult leaders). Individual Scouts take home the gear used by their patrol after a campout and have the responsibility to care for that gear and return it promptly: • Tents must be set up or hung up so that they dry. • Cooking gear in patrol boxes must be washed. • Stoves must be washed. • Bring the gear back at the next troop meeting and check in the gear with the Quartermaster at the shed. • Inform the Quartermaster of any problems with the gear (tents with broken zippers or missing poles, items missing from the patrol box, etc.) so that the problem can be fixed.

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CAMPOUT CHECKLIST (Refer to Boy Scout Handbook for additional detail) ____ ____ ____ ____ ____ ____ ____ ____ ____ ____ ____ ____ ____ ____ ____ ____ ____

Backpack Sleeping bag (in plastic bag) Sleeping pad Eating gear (cup, fork, spoon & bowl) Drinking cup (plastic mug) Personal first aid kit MP3 players, Rain gear electronic Water bottle / canteen games, etc. are not permitted Flashlight and extra batteries on campouts Compass Whistle Pocketknife (after earning Totin’ Chip) Toiletries Medications Insect repellant, sunscreen Clothing (in waterproof bag, see list below) Optional: Camera, notepad, pen, reading material

Clothing for Warm Weather

Clothing for Cold Weather

___ Long sleeve shirt ___ Tee shirt ___ Long pants ___ Hiking shorts ___ Fleece or jacket ___ Socks ___ Hiking boots / sneakers ___ Brimmed hat

___ Winter boots ___ Warm jacket or parka ___ Long sleeve shirt ___ Wool sweater / fleece ___ Insulated / waterproof pants (snow pants) ___ Long underwear ___ Mittens / gloves ___ Wool hat ___ Wool socks

REMEMBER, YOU CARRY WHAT YOU BRING 26

TROOP 76 SCOUTING GLOSSARY APL Assistant Patrol Leader – Assists the Patrol Leader in all patrol functions and meetings. ASPL Assistant Senior Patrol Leader – Assists the SPL in the organization and running of all Scout functions as well as meetings. Board of review A review of a Scout’s progress by three or more troop committee members at which rank advancement is approved. Circle Up All Scouts and adults form a circle at the end of a troop meeting for recognitions, final announcements and taps. Cracker Barrel Evening snacks, typically after the campfire, on a troop trip. Court of Honor An awards meeting where rank advancement, merit badges and other special awards are presented to Scouts. Families are encouraged to attend. Held 4 times a year in September, December, March and June. Eagle Scout The highest rank in Boy Scouting. Fall In All Scouts line up by patrols at a troop meeting, camping trip or other event. Fall in is called by the SPL or designated Scout leadership. JLTC Junior Leadership Training Course – Scouts are chosen by the Scoutmaster to attend a special training session during the summer to prepare them for Patrol Leader and other positions of responsibility within the troop. 27

Merit Badge An award focusing on skills and knowledge of a specific subject. Over one hundred twenty merit badges cover a wide variety of subjects. Earning merit badges is a component of rank advancement for Star rank and above, but Scouts of any rank may work on merit badges. Earning twenty one merit badges is required for the rank of Eagle Scout, twelve of which are specifically required. OA Order of the Arrow – A national Scouting honor society and service organization. Eligible Scouts are elected to OA by their peers at an election held once a year. Patrol A group of typically five to eight Scouts headed by a Patrol Leader and APL. The patrol works together during troop meetings, at campouts, on advancement and other activities. Patrols should meet at least once a month in addition to troop meetings. Rank Scouts earn ranks by fulfilling requirements related to Scouting skills and ideals that are detailed in The Boy Scout Handbook. Requirement completion is signed off in The Boy Scout Handbook by the Patrol Leader. Ranks in advancing order are Scout, Tenderfoot, Second Class, First Class, Star, Life and Eagle. Round Table A district meeting for adult leaders held once a month where all troops are represented to discuss upcoming events as well as any special projects or concerns of the district. Volunteers are always welcome to attend. Scoutmaster Conference A meeting between a Scout and the Scoutmaster or Assistant Scoutmaster prior to a rank advancement that provides an opportunity for the Scoutmaster to discuss with the Scout his activity in the troop and his understanding and practice of the ideals of Scouting. 28

SPL Senior Patrol Leader – The Scout elected by the other Scouts to lead the troop. In charge of overseeing all troop activities and planning the monthly schedule with the assistance of the leadership. Totin’ Chip A card issued by the troop indicating the Scout has learned knife safety, care and use, and is now allowed to carry a knife while attending Scouting functions. This card can be revoked at any time if a Scout abuses the privilege. Troop Committee Adult leadership overseeing management of the Troop. Committee meetings are held the first Thursday of every month. All adults are encouraged to attend. Troop Meeting Held on Thursday evenings, except the first Thursday of the month which is a leadership meeting. Activities usually teach Scouting skills, prepare for upcoming events and conclude with a fun game. Venture Patrol A patrol made up of Scouts that are at least Star rank and in 9th grade or above in school. _________________________________________________________________________________________________

TROOP 76 COMMUNICATIONS Web Site

www.troop76.info

Google Group

http://groups.google.com/group/troop76 (Must be a group member for access)

Scoutmaster Blog

http://bsatroop76simsbury.blogspot.com

Troop 76 Pictures

www.flickr.com/troop76 Login “troop76pictures” Ask at a troop meeting for the Password “eagle76” login and password

Facebook Public page to share with friends: Boy Scout Troop 76 Simsbury, CT Private page just for troop members: AskTroop at a troop meeting about 76, Simsbury, CT private pages on Facebook for troop members and Private page justfor forVenture older Scouts: Scouts. Troop 76 Ventures (Simsbury, CT, USA) 29

INDEX Outdoor Program............................20 Parental Participation ..................... 12  Patrol Meetings .............................. 10  Patrols ............................................. 16  Rank Advancement ......................... 17  Records of Scouting Activities ......... 19  Registration ....................................... 8  Scout Law .......................................... 4  Scout Motto ...................................... 4  Scout Oath ........................................ 4  Scout Slogan ...................................... 4  Scout Uniform ................................. 13  Scouting Glossary ............................ 27  Scout‐Led Troop .............................. 15  Special Needs / Challenges ............. 11  Summer Camp ................................ 20  Troop Supplied Gear ....................... 25  Venture Patrol ................................16

Application ........................................8 Blue Cards ....................................... 18  Camping Equipment ....................... 22  Class B Uniform ............................... 14  Code of Conduct, Troop 76 ............... 7  Communications, Troop 76 ............. 29  Court of Honor ................................ 10  Dressing for Outdoor Activities ....... 21  Dues .................................................. 8  Eagle Court of Honor ...................... 10  Guiding Principles, Troop 76 ............. 5  History, Troop 76 .............................. 8  Leaders Phone List .......................... 31  Leave No Trace ................................ 21  Medical Issues ................................. 12  Meetings ........................................... 9  Merit Badges ................................... 18  Outdoor Code ...................................4

NOTES

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TROOP 76 KEY CONTACTS

Scoutmaster Committee Chair Treasurer Registration & Records

Rank Advancement Jay Jedlicka David Zell

Eagle Scout Coordinator Advancement Chairman

Assistant Scoutmasters Todd Bailey Scott Barnett Robert Johns Fred Lorenzen Gary Lungarini Harry Starrett Paul Sullivan Chris Weiland

Scoutmaster Emeritus Assistant Scoutmaster Assistant Scoutmaster Assistant Scoutmaster Assistant Scoutmaster Assistant Scoutmaster Assistant Scoutmaster Assistant Scoutmaster

New Scout Parent Liaisons Darlene Gerardi Rene Daguerre-Bradford

651-7941 651-9577

651-0270 651-8455 677-4277 651-7670 658-1908 938-0422 651-6420 209-7646

651-6818 651-9029

Communications Monica Proctor Bob Proctor

651-3584 658-0865 217-0199 651-6993 Phone numbers have been removed from the web version of this handbook. Please consult the troop phone list stored on Google Docs.

Dan Carr John Mundt Tracey Toner Mike Rodgers

Email Coordinator Web Master

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651-9738 651-9738

Summit of Mount Washington, New Hampshire, highest point in the northeastern United States, February 2011

Summer camp at Camp Mattatuck, Plymouth, CT

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