Resources

• Do I need to purchase camping gear for my Cub Scout?

  • Cub Scouts MUST have a parent or guardian with them at all camping events.  Pack 130 participates in two campouts each year (Fall and Spring).  If you go, you will need to have the basic camping gear for each member of the family.  Cub Scout camping is easy, because you simply drive your car up to the campsite, unload, take your car to the designated parking area, and then set up.  Cubs do not do any backpack camping, so there is no need to spend a lot of money on super-high-end gear.  "Walmart stuff" will get you through the first four years without too many problems.  However, here is my advice - if you know that your family really enjoys camping, and you feel very confident that your Cub Scout will continue into Scouts, you might want to carefully consider the gear you buy; do your research and start those purchases early.  Good gear is more expensive, but worth every penny!  It's a good idea to spread those purchases out over time, instead of making a big bulk purchase just before crossing over into Scouts.  If you've ever camped in really cold weather you know the importance of having a good sleeping bag.  If you've ever camped in cold and rainy weather, then you really know what good gear can do for your morale and comfort. Just so you know, Scouts in Troop 130 generally camp once per month all year.

• What kind of camping gear should I buy?

  • For Cub Scout family campouts you can keep it simple, or you can bring everything in the Coleman's camping gear inventory (NO personal heaters - these are very dangerous and not allowed on BSA property).  You'll see it all, but I recommend the following for starters:

    • Tent (I also like to put a plastic tarp under my tent)

    • Sleeping Bag

    • Sleeping Pad or mattress - Tip - air mattresses work great in mild temperatures; however, if it gets down into the 40s or below you'll want to get a thermal pad, otherwise you will be cold all night.

    • Camping Stove - There are tons of options, but I like the two burner stoves.  Remember, try to keep it simple if you're just starting.

    • Cooler - to keep food and drinks chilled

    • Plastic storage container(s) - to store food, cooking utensils, and all things you want to keep clean and dry.

    • Flashlights for each camper - The "small LED miner lights," are the best.  You simply wear them on your head and your hands are free.  One visit to the port-a-jon in the middle of the night and you'll quickly realize the few dollars you paid for these things was money well spent.

    • Rain gear for each camper - ponchos will do the job

    • Most anything else that will make your family comfortable - EXCEPT personal heaters.  Those Coleman personal heaters must stay at home since they are prohibited on BSA property.

Camping with Cub Scouts

• Camps in our Area

  • Camp Albemarle in the Pines - Former Camp Sam Hatcher - get driving directions and locate Pack 130 campsite.

  • Camp Boddie

• Cub Scout Camping "Do's and Dont's"

  • HAVE FUN, BE SAFE!

  • Scouting Behavior Around Fire 

  • NO bullying, wrestling, fighting, stick fights, stick or pine cone throwing.

  • DO NOT harm or tamper with rare plant species (such as Venus Fly Traps, Sundew, or Pitcher Plant)

  • Always practice Cub Scouting "Leave No Trace."

  • DO NOT play with campfire

    • Do not throw things into the fire

    • Do not leave the campfire with sticks that are glowing-hot, on fire, or still smoking.

    • No horseplay while around fire

  • DO NOT damage or break anyone's personal belongings.

  • NO fixed-blade knives, saws, axes, or other cutting devices.  The Cubmaster will bring an axe, if needed,  and store it in the "axe yard." Cub Scouts are not allowed in the axe yard, and they are not allowed to use an axe.

  • Bear Cubs and Webelos can carry and use pocketknives under these conditions (also see Totin' Chip Requirements):

    • MUST have Whittling Chip card or Knife Safety Belt Loop/Pin with them, and they must practice what they've promised.

    • Can only use them at campsite and must be supervised by an adult.

    • Cannot carve or cut growing trees and bushes.

    • If rules are violated, their knife will be taken away and returned at the end of the campout.

    • While attending Family Campouts, if they are caught using their knife outside of the campsite by any leader or parent from any Pack, the boys knife will be taken away and given back to them at the end of the campout.

    • NO Sheathed knives

  • Lights out at 10:00 pm for all children and loud adults.  Children have been running around all day and they are tired (including adults).  This rule is in place,, and enforced to minimize "family drama" that can occur when everyone is tired and trying to get situated for bed.  Thanks in advance for your cooperation and understanding!

  • No video games, radios, iPods, iPads, etc.

• Parent Camping "Do's and Dont's"

  • NO smoking in front of Scouts.  At each camping event, there will be a designated smoking area, so when you arrive see the Cubmaster for details.

  • NO alcoholic beverages!  Please do not bring alcohol to Cub Scout Camping events.  While on BSA property, you can and will be asked to leave the event immediately.

  • NO open containers with liquid fuels

  • NO personal heaters - These are extremely hazardous, and not allowed on BSA property.

  • NO generators

  • NO pets

  • NO firearms (BB-Guns included)

  • NO cutting devices such as chainsaws, axes or hand-saws.

  • While camping, please remember that your camp neighbors can see and hear everything, so please think about the words you speak and your actions

  • Lights out at 10:00 pm for all children and loud adults - thanks in advance for you cooperation and understanding.

  • No electronic devices (radios, video games, etc.)

• Always Practice "Leave No Trace"

  • Do not break or damage living plants, shrubs, bushes, trees, and everything else not mentioned.  A good rule of thumb, if it's still attached to the ground simply assume its living.

  • Anything you bring, must go with you when you leave (including any trash)

  • Always use Port-A-Jons or bathroom facilities depending on where you are.

  • Respect wildlife - if you see something, be sure to leave it alone.

  • Take pictures, not things.  Leave those really cool things behind, that way everyone can enjoy them.

  • Go to the Leave No Trace web site for more details.

• Do I need to attend Cub Scout Den and Pack meetings with my child?

  • Yes, parents are required to stay with their Cub Scouts.  You cannot leave your Cub Scout at den or pack meetings alone.

  • Den and Pack meetings normally last about an hour, and since Cub Scouting is a family activity -we truly value your engagement in their activities.

• Can I volunteer as leader?

  • YES - JUST SAY THE WORDS!!!!!!  Without parents stepping up to become leaders, Cub Scouting would not exist.

  • Scouting BSA does require that you meet some very basic qualifications.  You do not have to be a former Scout.  When you submit an application, East Carolina Council (ECC) will perform a background check.  Before you can actively participate as an adult leader you must complete:

    • Youth Protection

    • Leader Specific Training 

• Can Moms volunteer as leaders?

  • ABSOLUTELY!!!  Family dynamics can be much different today than they were fifty years ago.  There are plenty of moms, and grandmothers, right here in Carteret County, throughout the District, and even at the Council level, that are giving their time and serving as leaders (Cubmaster, Den Leader, Assistants, Pack Trainers, etc.).

• More Frequently Asked Questions

  • Go to Scouting America

Scouting - More Links

• Scouting America

• East Carolina Council

  • Camping

  • Event Flyers

  • East Carolina Council Tentaroo Login 

• Southern District

BEHAVIOR POLICY

At it's core, Scouting teaches Scouts to be good citizens and to be respectful to all people.  Pack 130 behavior expectations are based on living by the Cub Scout Promise and the "Law of the Pack;" specifically to 'help others' and to 'give goodwill.'  On these premises, Pack 130 has established the following 'Behavior Expectations and Discipline Policy' to provide Cub Scouts, Parents, and Adult Leaders with a framework of expectations, disciplinary actions, and consequences for all persons involved with the Pack.

Pack 130 Code of Conduct

The following behaviors and/or actions will NOT be tolerated by Pack 130:

• Failure to follow reasonable directives of an Adult Leader

• Unnecessary, inappropriate, or malicious physical contact

• Threatening or intimidating another person by word or action (zero tolerance for bullying!)

• Foul language

• Teasing, hazing, or insulting others

• Disrespectful behavior towards other persons, personal property, or the environment

• Consumption of alcohol or use of drugs

This list is not exhaustive.  Parents and Adult Leaders must judge individual cases as they arise.

This code applies to Adult Leaders, Cub Scouts, parents, relatives, friends, and siblings.

YOUTH PROTECTION IN SCOUTING

The Scouts BSA places the greatest importance on creating the most secure environment possible for its youth members. To maintain such an environment, the Scouts BSA has developed numerous procedural and leadership selection policies, and provides parents and leaders the following online and print resources for the Cub Scouting, Boy Scouting, and Venturing programs.

Mandatory Reporting of Child Abuse

All persons involved in Scouting shall report to local authorities any good faith suspicion or belief that any child is or has been physically or sexually abused, physically or emotionally neglected, exposed to any form of violence or threat, exposed to any form of sexual exploitation including the possession, manufacture, or distribution of child pornography, online solicitation, enticement, or showing of obscene material. No person may abdicate this reporting responsibility to any other person.

Notify your Scout executive of this report, or of any violation of BSA’s Youth Protection policies, so that he or she may take appropriate action for the safety of our Scouts, make appropriate notifications, and follow-up with investigating agencies.

How does the BSA help prevent child abuse in Scouting?

The Scouts BSA has adopted a number of  policies aimed at eliminating opportunities for abuse within  the Scouting program. These policies focus on leadership  selection and on placing even greater barriers to abuse than  already exist today in Scouting.

New leaders are required to take Youth Protection training before submitting an application for registration.

The BSA’s Youth Protection training has been in existence long enough for it to be understood and accepted as a mandated training for ALL registered and new Scout BSA adult volunteers.

Youth Protection training must be taken every two years. If a volunteer’s Youth Protection training record is not current at the time of recharter, the volunteer will not be reregistered.

Leadership Selection

The Scouts BSA takes great pride in the quality of its adult leadership. Being a leader in the Scouts BSA is a privilege, not a right. The quality of the program and the safety of youth members call for high-quality adult leaders. We work closely with local Council to help recruit the best possible leaders for their units.

The adult application requests background information that should be checked by the local Council before accepting an applicant for unit leadership. While no current screening techniques exist that can identify every potential child abuser, we can help reduce the risk of accepting a child abuser by learning all we can about an applicant for a leadership position—including his or her experience working with children and why he or she wants to be a Scout leader.

Youth safety is of paramount importance to the Scouts BSA. It is important to implement this training at all levels  of the organization. The Scouts BSA continually seeks to increase awareness  of this societal problem and to create even greater barriers to  abuse than already exist today in Scouting to provide the most  secure environment possible for its youth members.

Scouting's Barrier to Abuse

The Scouts BSA has adopted the following policies for the safety and well-being of its members. These policies are primarily for the protection of its youth members; however, they also serve to protect adult leaders.

Two-deep leadership on all outings required. Two registered adult leaders, or one registered leader and a parent of a participating Scout or other adult, one of whom must be 21 years of age or older, are required for all trips and outings. There are a few instances, such as patrol activities, when the presence of adult leaders is not required and adult leadership may be limited to training and guidance of the patrol leadership. With the proper training, guidance, and approval by the troop leaders, the patrol can conduct day hikes and service projects. Appropriate adult leadership must be present for all overnight Scouting activities; coed overnight activities—even those including parent and child—require male and female adult leaders, both of whom must be 21 years of age or older, and one of whom must be a registered member of the Scouts BSA. The unit and local Council is responsible for ensuring that sufficient leadership is provided for all activities.

One-on-one contact between adults and Scouts prohibited. One-on-one contact between adults and youth members is not permitted. In situations that require personal conferences, such as a Scoutmaster’s conference, the meeting is to be conducted in view of other adults and youths.

Separate accommodations for adults and Scouts required. When camping, no youth is permitted to sleep in the tent of an adult other than his or her own parent or guardian. Councils are strongly encouraged to have separate shower and latrine facilities for females. When separate facilities are not available, separate times for male and female use should be scheduled and posted for showers. Likewise, youth and adults must shower at different times.

Privacy of youth respected. Adult leaders must respect the privacy of youth members in situations such as changing clothes and taking showers at camp, and intrude only to the extent that health and safety require. Adults must protect their own privacy in similar situations.

Inappropriate use of cameras, imaging, or digital devices prohibited. While most campers and leaders use cameras and other imaging devices responsibly, it has become very easy to invade the privacy of individuals. It is inappropriate to use any device capable of recording or transmitting visual images in shower houses, restrooms, or other areas where privacy is expected by participants.

No secret organizations. The Scouts BSA does not recognize any secret organizations as part of its program. All aspects of the Scouting program are open to observation by parents and leaders.

No hazing. Physical hazing and initiations are prohibited and may not be included as part of any Scouting activity.

No bullying. Verbal, physical, and cyber bullying are prohibited in Scouting.

Youth leadership monitored by adult leaders. Adult leaders must monitor and guide the leadership techniques used by youth leaders and ensure that Scouts BSA policies are followed.

Discipline must be constructive. Discipline used in Scouting should be constructive and reflect Scouting’s values. Corporal punishment is never permitted.

Appropriate attire for all activities. Proper clothing for activities is required. 

Members are responsible for acting in accordance with the Scout Oath and Scout Law. All members of the Scouts BSA are expected to conduct themselves in accordance with the principles set forth in the Scout Oath and Scout Law. Physical violence, theft, verbal insults, drugs, and alcohol have no place in the Scouting program and may result in the revocation of a Scout’s membership.

Units are responsible for enforcing Youth Protection policies. The head of the Unit leaders and the local council must approve the registration of the unit’s adult leader. Adult leaders of Scouting units are responsible for monitoring the behavior of youth members and interceding when necessary. Parents of youth members who misbehave should be informed and asked for assistance. Any violations of the Scouts BSA’s Youth Protection policies must immediately be reported to the Scout executive.

ATTENDANCE & AWARDS POLICY

Pack 130 encourages Cub Scouts to attend all meetings in proper uniform (Class A or Class B when specified), and arrive on time.  If you know in advance that your Cub Scout will miss his meeting, or if something comes up at the last minute, please let his  or her den leader know as soon as possible so that he (or she) can let you know what you need to work at home.

Pack 130 is not "strict" about attendance, and we understand that everyone has a life outside of Scouting.  In other words, it is your choice if you want to miss meetings and events, but certain awards do require active participation, such as the Arrow of Light, and will not be awarded if your Scout has a less than an attendance record less than 65%.  That doesn't mean that he cannot stay in Scouting, or crossover to the troop level.  Just be aware that every meeting counts towards something; whether it's progress towards rank, belt loop, activity badge, attendance award, or a really cool patch.  Cub Scouting is about "having fun with a purpose," but as anyone that's been around Scouting already knows, Cub Scouts have the opportunity to earn lots of stuff.  So when you miss something, it is imperative that you coordinate with your son's den leader to see if you can make it up at home.  This is a little easier to do in the first three years of Cub Scouting (Tiger, Wolf, & Bear).

What happens if your Scout misses a meeting or event, and you cannot make it up at home?  If there is an award or patch associated with that activity he or she will simply miss out on that too.  Awards are presented at the monthly Pack meeting, and it is through my experience that when fellow den members receive something, and one child does not, you can expect to have a very disappointed Cub Scout on your hands.  If too many things are missed, your child will lose interest in Cub Scouting very quickly.

Attendance at Summer Day Camp: is not required, however, this is a time when your Scout will earn a lot of stuff.  These awards are usually presented at the September Pack meeting.

Awards:  Parents cannot submit awards to the Pack's Awards Coordinator.  Awards are submitted by Den Leaders and/or the Cubmaster, and generally presented at monthly Pack meetings.  For Tiger, Wolf, and Bear Cubs, a parent/guardian, or den leader must first certify that the Cub Scout satisfied requirements for the award, and then the den leader, or cubmaster, will submit awards to the Awards Coordinator.  For Webelos and Arrow of Light, only the den leader(s), or Advancement Chair can certify that requirements have been met; as a Webelos or Arrow of Light parent, you can no longer certify that something was completed.  This is part of the transition to the troop.

If you miss a meeting, event, or activity that is planned specifically around a requirement(s) for a particular award or achievement, there may not be an immediate opportunity to make it up.  For example, if your Scout is a Bear Cub and he or she misses the Whittling Chip/knife safety class, it may be 6 months to a year before the next opportunity.  If a patch is awarded to those who participated in a den or Pack event/activity, and your Scout could not attend, he or she  will simply have to miss out on getting the patch too.

DEN & PACK LEADER RESOURCES

• How to get trained?

  • Visit MyScouting.org

  • Training

  • Youth Protection

• Den Meeting Resources

  • Lion Den Resources 

  • Tiger Den Resources

  • Wolf Den Resources

  • Bear Den Resources

  • Webelo and Arrow of Light Resources

  • Bobcat Resources - 

• Awards

  • Belt Loops & Pins-Advancement 

  • Insignia Guide

• Badges of Office

• Guide to Safe Scouting

  • Safety Checklist 

  • Activity Consent Form

• Roundtable Meetings

  • East Carolina Council Calendar 

• Popcorn

  • ECC Popcorn Information 

  • Camp Masters 

• Scouts BSA Forms 

PINEWOOD DERBY RULES

Each Cub Scout will receive his own Pinewood derby car kit a few months before the scheduled race!  Each kit has all the contents a Scout will need for making "the car," the one that will be remembered as the "legendary gravity rocket" in all the history books; a block of wood, four wheels, and four axle nails.  Unfortunately, not everyone will win, some cars may not even perform due to technical malfunctions - "that's racing" . . . to borrow a quote from the late and great Dale Earnhardt.

When the Scouts (and parents) walk into the Pinewood Derby Event on race day and see the trophies and medals, everyone gets excited with anticipation of going home with "a major award."  Please remember that this event is about having fun and teaching good sportsmanship.  As parents, please set the example and also talk to your Scout before race day about good behavior, whether they win and lose.  It's all about having fun!

Rules are "etched in stone," and they are not flexible.  Please be aware that Pinewood Derby rules are strictly enforced to ensure that each race is fair.  The smallest unfair advantage can make a huge difference on the race track, that's why we enforce them.  Please take time to read them over and ask any questions you might have before race day.  

Pack 130 RULES:

Registration, Qualifying Certification, Weigh-In Procedures, and Racing

1. Car inspections will stop 15 minutes before the race starts to allow race staff time to enter racers into the software, and make any last minute preparations - no exceptions.  If you show up 14 minutes (or less) before the race starts, your Scout will not be allowed to race - no exceptions.

2. All adjustments, tuning, graphite application and anything else must be done at home or at the "Pit" table before checking in at the "qualification" table.

3. Then comes the "dreaded qualification table."  At the qualification table, cars will be weighed first.  If you need to make any weight adjustments after the car is weighed, you will need to come back and have it weighed again before completing certification process.  Here is something we run into every year - someone has a scale at home, they use it to weigh their Scout's completed car and it weighs 5.0 ounces on their scale.  Then on race day the parent and Scout walk into the event  with big smiles on their faces while admiring the trophy that their "5.0 ounce" car is going to win . . . then they bring it to the qualification table and their car weighs in at a whopping 5.1 ounces!  Want to see a smile turned into a frown in 1.2 seconds?  That's what happens when your told that your car will have to shed a minuscule 0.1 ounce!  Again, this is a race that with a fractional unfair advantage can and will make a difference, so we have to strictly enforce a fair playing field.  5.0 ounces or less as measured on the Pack's scale.

4. After passing the weight inspection, cars will then be checked for materials, length, width, and bottom side obstructions.  For the length and width to be certified, your car MUST fit completely inside the check-template (all wheels touching the bottom).  Here's a helpful tip: if you take the derby car out of the box, do not remove any length, and then add anything (like weights, or even a feather) to the front or rear "bumper" area of your car, it will probably NOT pass certification.  If your car is too long or wide, you would have to remove the extra length/width, then start at weigh-in again.  If you have weights attached to the bottom of the car, be sure to use flat weights and not the rounded weights.  The rounded weights will drag on the track rail causing the car to stop, roll very slowly, or not at all.  NEVER use magnets for weights since the track does have metals plates holding its sections together.  We've seen some unhappy racers when their car never even made it to the finish line!

5. Wheels and axles - all participants must use BSA certified wheels (w/ BSA stamp), and the four (4) axle nails that come with the kit.  No single axles are allowed.

6. At the end of the qualification table, you and your car will be assigned a race number.  This number will be placed on top of the car so that the "pit boss" can easily find your car when it is time to race.  Once you have a "thumbs up" from the qualification table, immediately take your car to the "pit boss" so that it can be staged for racing.  At this time you cannot make any adjustments/modifications, or else you must go through the qualification process all over again.

7. Remember, once your car has been certified/qualified, your car goes directly to Pit Row. At this time, you can no longer touch, modify, or make adjustments to your car.  Cub Scouts can pick up their cars only when their name has been called to be on standby for their race.

8. Please do not touch anyone else's car.  Want to see someone get really mad, really fast?

9. No one is to walk, touch, or jump across the track!

10. HAVE FUN!

POCKETKNIFE POLICY:

Only Bear Cubs, Webelos I & II can earn the privilege (Whittling Chip) to use a pocketknife at certain Cub Scouting activities.  This privilege can be taken away by any den leader or parent.  Generally, pocketknives are not allowed at Pack or Den meetings.  However, the den leader may allow pocketknives at den meetings on a case-by-case basis. 

To earn the Whittling Chip, each qualified Cub Scout must take the class and repeat the "Pocketknife Pledge" found on the back of his Whittling Chip (see below).  When a promise is broken, a corner will be cut off of the Cub Scouts Whittling Chip.  When all four corners have been cut, a Cub Scout loses his privilege to use or carry his pocketknife, and must repeat the class before getting another Whittling Chip.

If a Cub Scout has a pocketknife in his possession, he or she must also carry his Whittling Chip card - think of like a "drivers license."  If the Scout does not have it, the pocketknife will be taken away and given to his or her parent.

Whittling Chip Card Requirements:

1. Must be Bear Cub or Webelos and Complete Bear Achievement 19, Shavings and Chips

2. Demonstrate knowledge and skill in the use of a pocketknife.

   • A knife is a tool, not a toy

   • Close the blade with the palm of your hand.

   • Never use a knife on something that will dull or break it.

   • Be careful that you do not cut yourself or any person nearby – “blood circle” hold your arms out, and if you can touch anyone in any direction put knife away.

   • Never use a knife to strip the bark from a tree.

   • Do not carve your initials into anything that does not belong to you.

   • When using knife, do not try to make big shavings or chips

3. Take the Pocketknife Pledge:

   • I will treat my pocketknife with the respect due a useful tool.

   • I will always close my pocketknife and put it away when not in use.

   • I will not use my pocketknife when it might injure someone near me.

   • I promise never to throw my pocketknife for any reason.

   • I will use my pocketknife in a safe manner at all times.

Pocketknife Use Policy:

Cub Scouts in Pack 130 may carry and use pocketknives ONLY when they obey the following rules:

• Only Cub Scouts that have earned a Whittling Chip Card may carry and use a pocket knife (ONLY Bear Cubs or Webelos).

• Knives may only be carried on outdoor camping trips, hikes or other approved activities ONLY when permitted by the Cubmaster or other Leader.

  • No knives at Den Meetings, unless approved by Den Leader

  • No knives at Pack Meetings, unless approved by Pack Committee

  • Chairman or Cubmaster

• The Whittling Chip Card MUST be carried by the Cub Scout at all times when he is carrying or using his pocket knife.

• Cub Scouts may use their pocket knife only when the Cubmaster or a designated Leader is directly supervising the Cub Scout's activities. The supervising adult MUST NOT be involved in any other activities while supervising Cub Scouts' use of knives.

• While at Family Campouts (Sam Hatcher, Boddie) Cub Scouts may only use knives at the campsite and with adult supervision.

• CUB SCOUTS MUST NEVER CARRY THEIR POCKET KNIVES TO SCHOOL OR SCOUT ACTIVITIES AT SCHOOL.

• Under no conditions are switchblade knives or sheath knives (fixed blade) permitted.

• Pack 130 Leadership (Cub Master, Committee Chair, or Den Leaders) have the final authority on knife use at all official pack events.

Cub Scouts who do not obey the Pack 130 Pocket Knife Rules and the Whittling Chip Card will lose the privilege of carrying and using a pocket knife; the knife and the card will be taken away, and returned to the parent. The following guidelines will be used:

 For a minor infraction, one corner of the Whittling Chip card will be cut off. If all four corners of the card are cut off, the Cub Scout will lose his Whittling Chip Card for 3 months. With the approval of the Cubmaster, he may re-earn the card after 3 months.

• • Using a knife in a non-designated area

  • Walking around with an open knife

  • Carving or cutting live tree and shrubs

  • Cutting something that does not belong to Scout

  • Breaking the "Pocketknife Pledge"

• For major infractions, including any accident, the Cub Scout will lose his Whittling Chip Card immediately for 3 months. With the approval of the Cubmaster, he may re-earn the card after 3 months.

  • Throwing a knife

  • Using, or pretending to use, the knife as a “weapon”

  • Threatening behavior

NOTE: Siblings, friends, or young relatives of Cub Scouts CANNOT carry or use pocketknives at Scouting events.

NOTE:  These policies and rules are subject to being updated.  The Pack Committee or Cubmaster can recommend and make minor changes or additions.

Scouting America Troop - GETTING READY TO CROSSOVER:

DOWNLOAD ~ click here.

Welcome message from Troop 130:

All of the leaders, committee members and scouts would like to welcome you to Troop 130!  You are about to embark on a great journey that teaches time tested values.

•       Responsibility

•       Leadership

•       Respect

•       Reverence

•       Teamwork

•       Goal Setting

•       Life skills

 Scouting teaches many skills that the scouts will use the rest of their life.  It is more than just requirements for advancement.  It is a journey that requires the Scout to set goals, to monitor results and to achieve the goals.  Scouting takes a lot of time and dedication.  It takes teamwork and respect for others.  Most importantly, scouting teaches leadership.  The troop is run by the scouts with only assistance from the adult leaders.

Troop 130 lays all of the ground work needed for a scout to advance through the ranks on the trail to becoming an Eagle Scout.  It is important to participate in every activity possible.  Nearly every campout involves either rank advancement activities or merit badge activities. Most scout meetings also involve rank advancement opportunities.  If you miss meetings and campouts, you will miss opportunities that may not be repeated for a year or more.

It is the scout’s responsibility to keep track of advancement and merit badges.  The adult leaders will periodically review and council the scouts.  However, it is imperative that the parents monitor the process closely.  Just like homework in school, the Scouts are responsible for getting it done, but the parents make sure it happens.

A Scout troop can only be successful if it has active participation from all parents.  All parents are encouraged to find their role in assisting the troop.  Whether it is as a Scout Master, Assistant Scout Master or a committee member, there is a job for everyone.  It is important to constantly bring in new parents to fill leadership roles to ensure to continued success of the troop.

Parents are expected to attend committee meetings.  Committee meetings are used to set schedules, plan events and communicate with the parents about troop activities.

Gear you'll need in  Scouts and other tips:

Recommended Uniform List:

 ·         Class A Uniform

·         Official Scout Shirt with correct patches

·         Official Troop 130 Neckerchief and slide.

·         Official Scout Hat

·         Official Scout Pants or shorts

·         Official Scout Socks

·         Official Scout Belt

**Class A Uniform should be worn to all troop meetings.  Uniform inspections can be done at anytime.

Scout Book and Canvas Book Cover:

Every scout needs their own scout book to record all of the advancement requirements.  They should take their scout book to every scout meeting and campout unless instructed otherwise.  Pick up a canvas book cover at the scout shop.  This book needs to make it through 5-6 years of scouting.

Backpack:

A good internal frame backpack.  Our troop does a lot of backpack only camping.  Buy one that is strong and light.  There are some on the market that are adjustable that will grow with your scout.  It is important to have the waist belt to take some of the weight off of the shoulders. Packs are measured to a person’s torso length. Ideally, a pack that fits a scout at the lower end of the torso length adjustment will allow him to grow into the pack and keep it longer. Do not discount packs designed for women, as these can be a good option. Recommended volume is about 3000-3500 cubic inches for internal frame packs with sleeping bag compartments.  Make sure the pack fits the scout!  Get help with this.

You should also have a pack cover. A large trash bag will do but a cover designed for your backpack is more convenient.

Sleeping Bag:

This will be used often.  Get a lightweight bag that will pack down to a very small size.  It must easily fit inside of your pack.  We do not camp in extreme conditions so a sleeping bag that is rate at 20-30 degrees should be fine.  Ask for a backpacking sleeping bag.  We advise against down bags as they take a long time to dry out, will not keep a scout warm when wet and are expensive. Synthetic fill materials are best. Make sure that the bag is not stored in the small stuff sack as the bag will lose its loft and therefore its ability to keep your scout warm.

Most of us also have a “warm weather” sleeping bag that we use when night-time temperatures are guaranteed to be above 50 degrees F. Wal-Mart sells a fleece bag for about $15.00-$20.00 that serves this purpose well.

Tents:

You are not required to purchase this item immediately.  If your Scout does not have a tent, he will be “buddied-up” with a Scout who does.

Portable Mattress:

This item is well worth the money.  Look for either a foam roll up mattress or a small self inflating mattress.  This should be small enough to roll up and attach to the outside of your pack.

Footwear:

Every scout needs a good pair of boots or high top hiking shoes. Fit is much more important than quality however. Work boots or inexpensive hiking boots such as the Wal-Mart brand Bandy II’s are popular. I recommend that you save your money for high quality hiking boots until your Scout has stopped growing – frequently about the time that they go to Philmont, NM.

 “Crocs,” or some similar type of shoe (not flip flops), are useful around the camp or to keep boots and socks dry on a stream or river crossing. These are lightweight, comfortable; allow the feet to air out after a day of hiking and on their feet (unlike flip flops).

Socks:

For weekend campouts cotton athletic socks will work. For longer excursions wool or synthetic socks are best. Scouting BSA socks are kind of a compromise between the two.

Pants:

There is no better type of pants than the BSA switchback pants for anything we do. Most Scouts use them as shorts the majority of the time. Try to wash the leggings with the shorts so that there is no a color difference between the two.

Your Scout should also have a lightweight pair of nylon gym shorts for sleeping in.

Shirts:

We have Troop 130 lightweight synthetic quick-dry shirts that are excellent and for a very reasonable price. These are better than cotton shirts.

Hats:

The BSA hat and a warm wool or synthetic watch cap is necessary for many of our outings.

Jackets:

A lightweight fleece jacket is required. Our Troop fleece jacket is not exactly lightweight but it will do. Your Scout also needs a rain jacket. This is much preferred over a poncho but a poncho is acceptable.

First Aid Kit:

Make up a personal first aid kit as shown in the scout book.  This needs to be small and easy to pack.  You can fit everything you need into a small zip lock bag to leave in your pack. A couple of pieces of moleskin and an anti-chafing product such as Glide should be in this kit.

Toiletry Kit:

Make up a small toiletry kit with bare essentials for camping.  Once again, a small zip lock bag works well for this. A small towel should be packed and a small bottle of hand sanitizer is good to have in the toiletry kit. Use small tubes of toothpaste. Also add small containers of insect repellent and sunscreen. Medications should also be packed and the adult leaders must be aware of these medications.  Buy small travel size items that you can leave in your pack so that you are always ready to go.

Mess Kit:

Plastic camping plate and a 28 oz (+ or -) cup with a lid and a spork.

LED Flashlight:

Look for a small compact LED light that you can leave in you backpack.  These lights are very light and small so they are perfect for backpack camping.

LED Head Lamp

Many times we reach camping sites after dark.  A head light enable you to use two hands to set up camp.

 Compass:

Every scout needs a small compass. We like the  Silva Polaris 177 http://www.thecompassstore.com/polaris.html. It is about $10 at Wal-Mart. (not anymore but the Wal-Mart compass will work) We advise against sighting compasses. Although any compass can work, for standardization of instruction, it helps for all scouts to have the same style of compass.

Knife:

Be careful here.  Most scouts want to get big knives.  We recommend a small pocket knife of good quality.  It is much easier to whittle with a small knife.  It is also much easier to carry.  Scouts are not allowed to carry or use knives until they pass specific training.

Water Containers:

Two one liter size bottles as a minimum. I recommend one wide mouth and one small mouth bottle. Wrap a few turns of duct tape around on bottle.  Plastic Gatorade bottles with screw on caps are fine.

Leave No Trace (LNT) Card:

Please Note: The Troop provides cooking stoves and pots and water purification. There is no need to invest in these items.

Resources:

Scout Stores in Emerald Isle, Kinston and Raleigh

www.scoutstuff.org (great selection of gear that has been selected for scout use)

REI Sores or www.rei.com

www.campmor.com (usually has the best prices)

Dicks Sporting Goods

www.ems.com

Packing for Camping Trips:

 ·         Extra underwear and socks

·         Two water bottles with screw on caps.

·         A trash bag or two to cover the pack in wet weather and to pick up trash.

·         A few candy bars, trail mix or GORP. Go easy here! No chips, cookies, etc.

·         A few dollars to get lunch/dinner on the way from/to an outing.

·         A small note pad/pen or pencil.

Clothing:

·         Class A uniforms are required for most camping trips.

·         Extra scout pants (The official scout switchback pants are perfect)

·         Extra scout T-Shirts.  Scout T-Shirts are part of the Class B uniform.

·         At a minimum, scouts should pack one pair of socks per day of the outing planned plus one extra pair with a maximum of 3 pairs.

·         Bulky clothing has no place in back packing as the layering technique allows for easy adjustment for changes in weather and     activity levels.

·         Clothing made of cotton should not be packed, as it is useless when wet.

In the event of cold weather, the ability to “layer up” can add warmth to a warm weather sleeping bag. A toboggan or skullcap retains heat in the head and can make for a more comfortable night’s sleep.  Long johns or tights are useful during some winter excursions.

 Suggestions for Packing:

The process of packing for a back packing trip is a valuable skill for scouts that prepare them for other circumstances in life. At the very least, failure to pack a piece of gear can make for an uncomfortable outing.  A good method is to unpack every item from the pack and lay it out on a table or bed and then to repack it with the checklist in hand so that no item is forgotten and/or unnecessary items are not packed.

**Items that Should NOT Be Packed**

·              Electronic Games (a deck of playing cards is OK)