Troop 226

  Over 25 Years of Scouting in The Colony, Texas!

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First United Methodist Church

4901 Paige Rd.

The Colony, TX 75056

 

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Mondays at

7:30 p.m.

GUIDEBOOK

For

Scouts and Parents

The Colony, Texas

Celebrating 25+ years of Scouting in The Colony!

1977-2005

 

 

Table of Contents

Charter Organization
Joining Troop 226
Orientation for New Parents and Scouts
Regular Troop Meetings
Information Distribution
Troop 226 Uniform Policies
Books and Needed Materials
Monthly Outings
Equipment
Advancement
Merit Badges
Medical Forms
Community Service
Troop Leadership
Adult Volunteers
Other Scouting Activities
Summer Camp
Behavior, Conduct, Troop Rules
Troop 226 Code of Conduct
Dues, Fund-Raising, and the Cost of Scouting
Accounting

 

Charter Organization

Troop 226 is sponsored by The First United Methodist Church (Paige Road, The Colony, TX 75056) and is open to all eligible boys regardless of race, religion, national origin, or where they attend school. FUMC provides us with a meeting place and storage room for our troop equipment. In return, each Scout is expected to assist in planned service projects that benefit the community as a whole and our sponsor in particular.

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Joining Troop 226

Selecting a Boy Scout troop to join is an individual decision for each family. Every troop is different in the kinds of activities they schedule and in their personalities. You should choose the troop that you feel would best meet your needs. In selecting a troop, you should consider the following factors. Are the troop activities the kind that you would enjoy? How do the Scouts interact with each other? How do the older Scouts interact with the younger Scouts? Are there older Scouts active in the troop? (This indicates if the troop's program is exciting and interesting for a variety of ages.) Is the troop "boy led" or do the adults lead it? (The best answer is the troop is "boy led".) Are you comfortable with the adult leaders in the troop? Are the adult leaders trained, do they follow BSA policy, and do they welcome input and participation by all parents? In practice, the decision of which troop to join usually comes down to two factors: convenience of the weekly troop meetings (meeting night and location) and which troop a boy's best friends are in.

A Scout does have the freedom to transfer to another troop if, for any reason, he changes his mind after joining Troop 226. When comparing troops it is not too important how large a troop is, or how many Eagle Scouts it has, or how many high-adventure trips they go on. The measure of a successful troop is how well it meets the three aims of Scouting: encouraging participatory citizenship, building strong moral character, and helping boys to grow physically, mentally, emotionally, and spiritually. In other words, do boys leave the troop a better person than they were when they joined? With so many troops in The Colony it may seem like a huge task to choose just the right one. Fortunately, all of the troops in The Colony are excellent and any one of them would be a good choice.

A parent or guardian should accompany you to a troop meeting at the time you decide to join Troop 226. One of the adult leaders will visit with you and your parents to explain Troop 226's program and procedures. You should receive the following materials and forms:

  • Boy Scout Application

  • Adult Leader Application

  • Personal Health and Medical Record form

  • New Scout Personal Information form

  • Adult Personal Information form

  • Troop Resource Survey

  • Permission Slip

  • Leadership Roster

  • Medication Authorization form

  • Uniform Inspection form

  • At the next meeting you should return the completed Boy Scout and Adult Leader application (for the parent to register with the Troop), Personal Health and Medical Record form (one for the Scout and another for any parent planning to camp with the Troop), New Scout and Adult Personal Information form, Troop Resource Survey, Medication Authorization form, a copy of your medical insurance card (front and back), and Permission Slip along with your joining fee to the Membership Chair. This fee covers your registration with the Boy Scouts of America, BSA insurance coverage, and a subscription to Boys' Life magazine. Please contact either the Scoutmaster or the Committee Chairman if the joining fee presents a financial burden.

    BSA Policy requires us to submit a Tour Permit for each outing to ensure that we are covered by BSA Insurance. The forms request information on all drivers transporting Scouts. Every adult could be called upon at some time or another to assist with transportation; the information you give us on your Adult Personal Information form will provide us with the information we need for the Tour Permit.

     

    If you are transferring from another troop, please include your existing membership card, and any other records from your previous troop (such as Health History form, Merit Badge Blue Cards); with your application. If you are a new Boy Scout, review the joining requirements found on page 4 of your Boy Scout Handbook. Before you return the above forms, you should complete joining requirement number 9: With your parent or guardian, complete the exercises in the pamphlet How to Protect Your Children from Child Abuse: a Parent's Guide which is found inside the front cover of your Boy Scout Handbook.

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    Orientation for New Parents and Scouts

    An informational meeting (date to be announced) will be held for bridging Webelos and their parents. Key adult volunteers will be introduced, an overview of Boy Scouting and Troop 226 will be presented, there will be a "show and tell" of camping equipment that your son will need, and lots of time will be given to answering questions.  This meeting will help you and your son make a smooth transition into Boy Scouts.

    During the meeting, the troop leaders hope to answer the following questions and to address any of your concerns not listed here.

  • What are the troop's expectations for Scouts and for their parents?

  • What will a Webelos Scout have to do differently once he is a Boy Scout?

  • What will a Scout's parents have to do differently, once their son is a Boy Scout?

  • What is the parents' role and involvement in their son's scouting career and his troop?

  • What is the cost of Scouting and how is it financed?

  • What books, uniforms, camping equipment, and camping clothing that is needed now and in the future?

  • When and where will the troop go to summer camp? What preparations are needed for going to summer camp? What will it cost, and what fundraisers will be organized to help offset that cost?

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    Regular Troop Meetings

    Mondays, 7:00 to 7:30 p.m.: Troop Trail to First Class program (TFC). Scouts who have not reached First Class rank are encouraged to attend the TFC program which focuses on the requirements needed for advancement. It is essential for Scouts to attend this program to accelerate their advancement to First Class in a timely manner.

    Mondays, 7:00 to 7:30 p.m.: Troop offered merit badge classes. Scouts who are not involved in a merit badge class may take care of Troop-related business at this time: update the Troop’s Advancement "Blue Book," sign up for a Board of Review, speak to adult leaders, or take care of financial business. Note: Occasionally merit badge classes will be held on alternate days. Scouts who have not achieved the rank of First Class and want to take a merit badge should visit with the TFC Scoutmaster prior to enrolling in the merit badge to see if it is in their best interest to take a merit badge class at this time.

    Mondays, 7:35 to 8:45 p.m.: Troop meetings. During Troop meetings before a campout, the Patrols will have a Patrol meeting to plan out their menus. Patrol members will give campout/activity food money ("grub money") to the Adult Treasurer during this time; the Treasurer will, in turn, issue patrol grub money to the person designated to buy patrol groceries (the Patrol Grubmaster) before the Troop meeting ends. The time slot from 8:45 – 9:00 will be used by Scouts and adults to catch up on other Troop business, which can include Scouts meeting with their Troop Instructor to pass off on rank requirements, ask for a Scoutmaster conference, visit with friends, etc. Parents should pick up Scouts at the church no later than 8:45 p.m.

    Monday after each Campout, 7:00 to 8:30 p.m.: Patrol Leaders' Council (PLC) meetings.

    Thursday after each Campout, 7:00 to 9:00 p.m.: Troop committee meetings: Parents are encouraged to attend/join the Troop Committee meetings any time. You do not have to be a registered adult leader to participate in the Committee meetings, but ONLY registered committee members are allowed to make motions and/or vote.

    Most meetings are held at the First United Methodist Church at Paige & South Colony. There are times when the church might not be available and we will announce an alternate location.

    Weekly troop meetings are held year round except during summer camp and during the Christmas season. Scouts in Troop 226 come from so many different schools that it is not practical to cancel meetings during each spring break or other school vacations. Committee meetings and PLC meetings may occasionally be held on different days depending on the schedule of activities for a particular month. Please check the monthly calendar on the Troop website http://www.troop226.com for all meetings. If a Scout misses a meeting, he should contact his Patrol Leader to find out what he missed.

    Whenever severe weather forces Lewisville Independent School District to close for the day due to weather, Scout meetings are also canceled.

    As a member of Troop 226, regular meeting attendance is expected and beneficial. We encourage Scouts to be active in church, school, and extra curricular activities. Some Scouts in the troop "take a break" from Scouting during one sport season or another and then return when the season is over; others come to the meetings after the practice or game. We do not penalize Scouts who miss meetings or outings due to sports or other extra curricular activities. Obligations to your family, church, and school should have priority over Scouts; however, if you miss many meetings and troop activities, it will be difficult to maintain steady advancement progress.

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    Information Distribution

    Our official process for getting information, last minute camping updates etc is via a message from the Scoutmaster to the Senior Patrol Leader, who will in-turn contact each of the Patrol Leaders. Your Patrol Leader should be the first point of contact for information.

     You are encouraged to give your email address on the "Adult Personal Information form." Your address will be added to the "Troop Email List" and you will receive information when updates or announcements are made. Email addresses are only made available to Troop members, with the understanding that they are confidential, and may only be used for Troop business.

    We also maintain a Troop Calendar on the Internet at: http://www.troop226.com. Email updating is the preferred method of communication from the adult leadership; this allows everyone to stay informed with the most current information.

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    Troop 226 Uniform Policies

    When a boy (Webelos II or transferring Scout or a boy new to Scouting) joins Troop 226, his minimum uniform requirement will consist of the following:

    1. Field uniform shirt properly outfitted with the correct patches and Troop number. Note: Shirt must be buttoned up and tucked in at all times while being worn.

    2. Troop 226 neckerchief and slides of his choice.

    3. Troop 226 ball cap or a Scouting cap or Scouting hat of his choice. Non-scouting hats or caps will not be worn with the uniform.  (Items B and C make the Troop look sharp and proud.)

    4. Merit Badge sash after he earns his first Merit Badge.

    5. Shorts or long pants that blend with the Scout Shirt. Note: If you are not wearing Scout shorts or Scout pants, Olive green, Black or Blue jeans or Kaki will be accepted.

    6. Closed toed shoes or boots of his choice made of leather or canvas that are neat and clean.

    7. Boy Scout Handbook.

    While the above items are minimum requirements, the Scouts should be encouraged to dress in complete BSA uniform to instill a sense of unity and brotherhood, to give them identity and state a belonging to an organization known for its service to the community and to ensure a neat homogeneous troop appearance.

    "The uniform makes for brotherhood, since when universally adopted it covers up all differences of class and country" - Sir Robert Baden-Powell

     

    These above uniform items, (A - G) will meet the minimum requirements until the Scout is ready for his Eagle Scoutmaster Conference.  At this point in his Scouting career, he must appear before the Scoutmaster for his Eagle Scoutmaster Conference wearing the complete BSA Scout Uniform as indicated below:

    1. Items 1: A, B, C, D, F and G above.

    2. Official Scout belt of his choice.

    3. Official Scout shorts or Official Scout long pants.

    4. Official Scout socks.

    It is the Scout's option at any time before his Eagle Scoutmaster Conference, to purchase these additional items of his complete BSA Field Uniform.

    Please Note:  The complete BSA Field uniform is required for the Eagle Scoutmaster Conference, Eagle Board of Review, Eagle Ceremony and other possible obligations associated with the rank of Eagle Scout. Note: If a Scout is nominated for the Order of the Arrow (OA), he may be required to wear the complete BSA Field Uniform.

    Reminders for the Scout:

    When you attend a Troop meeting, you should be wearing your uniform, closed toed shoes or boots, and have your Scout Handbook with pen/pencil and paper. Additional program items you will need will be announced before the meeting.

    When you attend a Troop campout, you should be wearing your uniform, Scout cap, closed toed shoes or boots and have with you your Scout Handbook, knife and Totin’ Chip card, Firem’n Chit card, and compass. New Scouts will earn these cards in the TFC program. Additional program items you will need will be announced before the campout.

    When you attend a formal ceremony such as Court of Honor, you should be wearing your BSA Field uniform including but not limited to: Troop 226 neckerchief and slide of your choice, Merit Badge sash, and closed toed shoes or boots.

    NOTE: Although the Scout cap is part of the Official Scout Uniform, it will not be worn inside the Church.

    Scouts should help to pay for their own uniform. Uniforms can be purchased at the Boy Scout Service Center, Hwy 121 in Lewisville or online at the official BSA Supply division. Experienced uniforms can sometimes be obtained through a uniform exchange within the troop. The Troop Committee supervises the supply of experienced uniforms. You may contact the Uniform Bank Coordinator at any time to obtain a uniform from the exchange or to donate a uniform. You might also check CCA in The Colony.

    There are also other opportunities to acquire economical uniform pieces through internet uniform banks (some examples:http://www.globalserve.net/~codyak/CUBCodyAK.htm, http://www.geocities.com/o_sheffler/experien.html, http://www.saturdaybang.com/uniforms/) or auctions sites such as eBay. Important: Troop 226 does not have any affiliation nor does it endorse or denounce any of these internet sites; the purpose for providing this information is strictly to give you examples of uniform outlets available.

    As part of your Field uniform, the Troop 226 neckerchief is a red neckerchief with the Troop 226 logo. The Troop will supply a neckerchief for any Webelos Scout who is bridging over to us. A merit badge sash is worn only on formal occasions such as Courts of Honor. The short-sleeved shirt is more flexible, weather-wise. Long sleeve red turtlenecks and T-shirts may be worn under the Scout shirt for added warmth. For some events involving a lot of physical activity and during the summer months, the Patrol Leaders' Council may designate that a Troop T-shirt and Troop ball cap should be substituted for the Field uniform. This is known as an Activity uniform. We will take orders for our Troop Hats, T-shirts and Neckerchiefs in late March. A well-prepared Scout should also have a notebook and pen or pencil at all functions. These items are part of the uniform.

    Once the Troop arrives at a campsite, you may find it more practical to change out of your Field uniform and into clothing more suitable for outdoor activities. You should watch weather predictions and use your own judgment about what clothing is appropriate for the weather and conditions.

    Converting Your Webelos Uniform Shirt to a Boy Scout Uniform Shirt

    The Boy Scout uniform shirt is the tan shirt. Some Webelos Scouts may already be wearing this shirt. With just a few changes, you may continue to wear your tan shirt from Webelos as long as it still fits. If you are still wearing the blue Cub Scout shirt, you will need to replace it with a Boy Scout tan shirt.

    Some Scouts choose to keep their Webelos shirt intact as a keepsake item (these are great memories to show at an Eagle Ceremony).

    To convert your tan shirt from Webelos to Boy Scouts, be sure to remove your den number and Webelos patrol patch. Your patrol will vote on a name and select a patrol patch for everyone to wear. Remove the Webelos colors where you display your Webelos activity pins and all of your Cub Scout ranks (Bobcat through Webelos, including arrow points). Your Arrow of Light patch is the only Cub Scout rank that transfers to the Boy Scout uniform. However, its position moves to the bottom edge of your left shirt pocket. The purple religious knot is the only Cub Scout award that may transfer to the Boy Scout uniform. If you have any Quality Unit patches you should remove those and wait for new ones to be issued by the troop. If your pack was authorized to wear the Veteran Unit Bar (small "25" between the council patch and your pack number) you will need to remove it also.

    Your blue shoulder loops were replaced with red ones during your Bridging ceremony. Make sure you have the Longhorn Council shoulder patch and "226" on your left sleeve. The troop numbers should touch each other and the council shoulder patch. You may continue to wear your service stars, but only one per program. If you were in Tiger Cubs you may wear a "1-year" star with an orange background and you may wear a single star with a yellow background showing the number of years you were in Cub Scouts. Other pins such as Summertime Pack awards, sports pins, Webelos activity pins, popcorn and Scouting for Food pins should be removed.

    If you have a temporary patch sewn on your right shirt pocket or dangling from the pocket button, you may leave it on, take it off, or replace it with the next temporary patch you receive in Boy Scouts.

    If you have any questions about the uniform shirt or patch placement, refer to the inside of the Boy Scout Handbook and the Uniform Inspection Form (#34283) you received upon joining the troop.

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    Scout handbookBooks and Needed Materials

    The first book that you will want to obtain is the most recent edition of the Boy Scout Handbook. It contains most of the information you will need to advance in rank along with important information about how a Boy Scout troop functions, what you will need to be prepared to go camping and hiking. Bring your Handbook with you to every troop meeting and on every campout, so you can get requirements signed off and dated as soon as you complete them. Start reading your Handbook right away. You should become familiar with its contents and you should stay aware of what you need to do next to advance in rank.

    Merit badge booksFrom time to time you may need to purchase merit badge pamphlets. Each of the 100 plus merit badges has its own pamphlet that contains not only the requirements for the badge, but also the information you will need to complete the requirements. Any time you are working on a merit badge, you should have the current merit badge pamphlet. These books are updated often, so check the back cover of this year's Boy Scout Requirements Book (another valuable book to own!) for a list of the latest revision dates for each of the merit badge pamphlets. The troop library has a limited number of merit badge pamphlets available for loan. See the Troop Librarian to borrow something from the library. If you purchase your own copy of a merit badge pamphlet, please consider donating it to the troop library when you are finished with it.

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    Monthly Outings

    "Outing" is a major part of Scouting. Camping, hiking, canoeing, and all kinds of outdoor activities are an important method for achieving the three aims of Scouting. Outdoor activities are the central part of the fun of Scouting and are a major source of advancement opportunities. Troop 226 schedules some sort of outing every month of the year. We have fun outdoors regardless of what the weather conditions may be. We certainly learn more and gain greater confidence when we are camping during "adverse" weather.

    You will advance faster and become more proficient in your Scout skills if you participate regularly in troop outings. You will also gain a greater appreciation and enjoyment in scouting the more outings you attend. A preliminary schedule of activities is published in the troop's annual calendar. Adjustments are made to some of the details, locations, and dates as the year progresses.  

    moon over prairieThe activity fee could be for lodging, admissions, registration, camping, or program costs. In the event that any fees exist, the troop will collect from each participating Scout and adult. These fees may be paid in cash or by check or you may have it deducted from your Scout Account if funds are available. Participating in troop fundraising projects can help fund your Scout Account. 

    The Patrol food costs are separate from the activity fee. Each Patrol member pays a designated grub fee for a weekend campout (Saturday Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner and Sunday Breakfast). Patrol grub money may be paid by cash or check or taken from your Scout Account if funds are available. A Grub Fee is also collected from each camping adult to cover his/her food costs.

    The Scout also pays the cost of summer camp and high adventure trips in full. As a Scout, you are expected to earn and save for your Scouting expenses yourself and not simply ask your parents to pay for it. Fundraising opportunities will be available to help offset the costs.

    You are required to travel to and from outings in your Field uniform and to remain in uniform whenever we are in public. You are also required to wear your uniform during all Troop functions and Scout-sponsored activities. The Senior Patrol Leader will inform the Scouts when there is an exception to this policy.

    campfireMany of the troop's outings are in a wilderness setting. To preserve the wilderness experience and for our safety, do not bring extra food or electronics along on our outings. The Scoutmaster will take these items away and return them at the end of the outing. Special Medical or Dietary needs must be brought to the attention of the Scoutmaster and special concessions will be made. Note: Electronic devices include but are not limited to: cell phones, PDA’s, handheld electronic games, MP3 players, CD players, radios or DVD players. If you have a question about a device, ask a Scoutmaster. Scoutmaster may occasionally approve electronic devices for use during travel, but the devices must remain in the vehicle upon arrival. Troop 226 and its members are not responsible for any loss, theft or damage that may result from a Scout bringing any electronic device whether approved or not.

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    Equipment

    sleeping bag

    Proper equipment and clothing are essential for safe and enjoyable outdoor activities. Some equipment is owned and maintained by the troop. This usually includes equipment that must be shared such as cooking equipment. Troop equipment is assigned to individual patrols. The patrols are responsible for the care of the equipment and requisitioning the appropriate equipment for each outing. The patrols work with the troop quartermaster when troop equipment needs servicing or replacing. Each individual Scout is expected to provide and bring his own personal tent, equipment and clothing. The list of suggested equipment and clothing is found in your Boy Scout Handbook.  It is not necessary to purchase the best or most expensive camping equipment and clothing. However, the cheapest equipment may last for only one outing and will not be a bargain. Some manufacturers and sporting goods stores will cater to Scouts by offering products at discounted prices; you should ask when you make any purchase. One manufacturer that caters to scouts is ALPS Mountaineering www.alpsmountaineering.com,  they offer products discounted on a special dedicated web site www.scoutdirect.com . Another good internet/mail order discount outdoor equipment and clothing supplier is Campmor at www.campmor.com .

    Alps Mountaineering backpackBackpacks. It is not necessary for a new Scout in Troop 226 to own his own backpack. On most monthly campouts a simple duffel bag or gym bag will suffice. When the time comes for a Scout to go on his first backpacking trip, he should borrow a backpack and see how he likes that particular style of pack. A backpack is an expense that a new Scout can put off until later.

    A Sporting Goods sales person can share the pro’s & con’s of internal vs. external frames, you can also see a good comparison at www.scoutdirect.com/value . Many manufactures offer adjustable "youth" models. Do not buy a large backpack to "grow into". An ill-fitting backpack can cause a lot of discomfort and result in a miserable hiking experience. A capacity of 2000 to 3000 cubic inches is sufficient for a beginning pack.

    Alps Mountaineering Sleeping bagSleeping system. In Texas, any type of sleeping bag will suffice for most weather from March through November. If it becomes very cold during that time, folding a blanket in thirds and inserting it into the sleeping bag can supplement a sleeping bag. A stocking hat may also be needed for very cold weather. Scouts will be given information on selecting the right sleeping bag for winter camping. If you already have a sleeping bag, use it. You should not need to replace it. Get a stuff sack when purchasing the bag; a compression sack is optional.

    Thermarest sleeping padsA Ground pad is an important part of a sleeping system. The pad is important for more than just your comfort; it also provides vital insulation between you and the ground. A half-inch thick closed cell foam pad is the least expensive and most durable choice. Self-inflating insulating foam sleeping pads are more comfortable and much more expensive. Avoid foam rubber or other open cell foam pads because they soak up water and do not insulate well. Avoid a simple inflatable vinyl air mattress like you would use in a swimming pool because it has no insulating value.

    Alps Mountaineering tentTents: If your scout owns a 2-3-man tent, he may use it for campouts (the troop can not be liable for any damage). Please do not run out and buy a tent without discussing the pro’s and con’s of each type with a Scoutmaster. No scout is to sleep in a tent alone (with the exception of the Venture Patrol while training for Philmont). This is a Youth Protection issue.

    Rain gear
    Rain Gear. Staying dry is important to staying warm. A Scout does not need an expensive, high-tech rain suit. A durable poncho can be adequate. Avoid buying a cheap plastic poncho because it will not last even a single campout.

     

    Hiking bootFoot Gear. Most boys wear athletic shoes everywhere: school, church, and during play. In good weather you may get by wearing them on a campout. However, a waterproof hiking boot will stand up better to the rain, mud, and other conditions encountered on a campout and will protect your feet better than an ordinary athletic shoe. Under some weather conditions, an ordinary athletic shoe may be a serious health risk.

    Don't compromise the comfort and health of your feet by wearing cotton socks. Use polypropylene or other wicking liner sock under a heavy wool sock whenever you are hiking or wearing boots. SmartWoolb socks are a more expensive alternative that combines the best of polypropylene and wool into a single sock.

    Personal Clothing. For most boys, blue jeans are the all-purpose uniform for playing outdoors. However, because cotton looses its insulating value when wet, jeans and sweat pants and sweatshirts are generally unsuitable as camping clothes. Cotton is fine for wearing in your sleeping bag where you are fairly sure you will remain dry. Select clothes made of wool or synthetic fabrics such as polypropylene, polar fleece, and other modern materials that can insulate even when wet. To ensure your warmth and comfort, be sure to dress in layers of loose clothing.  Watch weather reports and plan to dress accordingly ("Know before you go!").

    Mess kitEating Utensils: Each Scout and adult should have an insulated mug for drinks (which is great for soup or stew too) knife, fork & spoon and a plate (plastic or metal—nothing disposable!). Each item should have their name on it. Adults and youth should bring personal eating utensils on every campout.

     

    A "Fanny Pack" is great for carrying water bottles, a first-aid kit and other small items. A water bottle is mandatory for each scout (it gets hot in Texas)! You will need a compass later and will want to carry your pocket knife once you have earned your Totem Chip. NO KNIFES are allowed until a scout has been trained and earned the Totem Chip. Sheath Knives and blades longer than 4" are NEVER ALLOWED!

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    Advancement

    Eagle scout awardAdvancement is an important part of Scouting. It is a measure of your growth and progress. Each Scout keeps his own personal advancement record in his Boy Scout Handbook. You should also record your service hours, campouts, troop activities, and leadership positions in your Handbook. The troop also keeps advancement records on each Scout, which each Scout must keep up-dated. Your Boy Scout Handbook identifies all rank advancement requirements. Information on merit badge requirements is found in the appropriate merit badge pamphlets, available at the Scout Shop and in the troop library. If you are crossing over to Boy Scouts from Cub Scouts, you should note a significant difference in the standards for rank advancement. In Cub Scouts the standard was to "Do Your Best". In Boy Scouts you are expected to complete the stated requirements and satisfy the standards of each rank and merit badge. Sometimes you may find that you must work hard and grow beyond your current capabilities to obtain your goals.

    Scout badgeYou should work on your advancement with your parents, with your fellow Scouts and your Scout leaders. You should work on your advancement on your own, in your patrol meetings, during Troop meetings, and during other Troop functions such as campouts. Scout skills cannot be mastered by performing them just once. You should expect to practice them repeatedly, even after a skill has been "signed-off".

    After you master a skill on your own or with your parents or in school, you must have that skill signed off. A scout with rank of First Class may sign off on items for ranks below First Class unless otherwise stated, i.e. Scouts in the TFC program must have TFC Instructors sign off their requirements. Be prepared to demonstrate the skill you have mastered to the person signing off for you. Parents cannot sign off for their own sons. After items are signed off, each Scout is responsible for updating his "Individual History" form in the Troop’s Advancement Book (normally found on a table in the back of the meeting room).

    There are a greater variety of experiences available to Scouts that are First Class in rank or higher. While you may work on any merit badge at any time after becoming a Boy Scout, you should concentrate on achieving the rank of First Class before devoting a lot of time working on merit badges.

    Each Scout should meet regularly with the Scoutmaster or Assistant Scoutmaster for a Scoutmaster Conference. This conference is used to discuss your goals and accomplishments and is required for each rank advancement. You do not have to wait until you have completed the requirements for another rank before asking for a Scoutmaster conference. You may talk with the Scoutmaster at any time. However, for a Scoutmaster conference to count towards rank advancement it must take place after all other requirements are complete and before the Board of Review.

    A Board of Review is a requirement for each rank advancement. Scouts must be current in their Passbook Accounts (no deficits) and Dues payments, to request a Board of Review for rank advancement. After a Scout has successfully completed a Scoutmaster Conference for rank advancement, he requests a Board of Review by "signing up" on the Troop 226 Board of Review Log (in a binder, normally found on a table at the back of the meeting room). The Board consists of three to six registered members of the Troop Committee but may not include assistant Scoutmasters, the Scoutmaster, or your own parents. You need to have your Boy Scout Handbook and be in uniform to appear before a Board of Review. At the beginning of the review you will be invited into the room and introduced to the Board. After this introduction, you will be invited to be seated. During the review, the Board will discuss your progress along your trail to Eagle. This is not a quiz on skills that were required for your particular rank, rather a discussion about learning the skill and evaluating you in terms of troop activities, worthiness for the next rank, your overall experience in the Troop, and your acceptance of Scouting ideals. It is also a time for you to give feedback to the Troop Committee on activities and the Scouting experience in Troop 226. At the end of the review you will be asked to leave the room while the Board discusses your qualifications. The Board will then call you back into the room and inform you either that you qualify for the next rank or what additional actions you must take to qualify. Do not expect to pass every Board of Review the first time. Troop 226 wants you to realize that you must truly earn your ranks before they are awarded. Each Scout should be reviewed every year whether you are ready to advance in rank or not. This helps the adult leaders monitor Scouts that are advancing and those that are not and to offer appropriate encouragement and guidance.

    Formal recognition of advancements and merit badges are made in front of family and friends during a ceremony at a Court of Honor. Troop 226 schedules three or four Courts of Honor each year. Your parents and family should attend all Courts of Honor, as this is a family event. Friends are also welcome. You must keep track of any documentation (Merit Badge and Rank cards) issued to you, as documentation may be necessary as you advance to the Eagle rank.

    After attaining the rank of Life Scout, you will be given your Life to Eagle Pamphlet and schedule a meeting with the Scoutmaster. This meeting is to discuss ideas and suggestions for your Eagle Service Project. Special guidelines have been outlined by the Boy Scouts of America for this project and your Eagle Service Project must conform to these guidelines. Your Scoutmaster, Troop Committee, the organization benefiting from your project, and Tonkawa District Advancement Chairman must approve your project before your project begins.

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    Merit Badges

    First aid badgeThe Boy Scout merit badge program is an excellent way for Scouts to learn important Scout skills in more depth and to explore many different careers and hobbies. With over 100 topics to choose from, it's not uncommon for a Scout to select a career or life long hobby from his experience with the merit badge program. The program also gives the Scout the opportunity to learn an important life skill: to make an appointment to work with someone they do not know.

    Scouts complete the requirements for becoming a Boy Scout before he may work on merit badges. Merit badges are not required to advance through the ranks of Tenderfoot, Second Class, and First Class. Therefore, until a Scout has completed First Class, his time is better spent focusing on the requirements of the first three ranks rather than earning lots of merit badges. A certain number of merit badges must be earned for the ranks of Star, Life, and Eagle. A portion of those merit badges must come from the list of "required" merit badges. Required merit badges have a silver border and the others have a green border.

    Many merit badges are earned at summer camp. When the Troop receives the summer camp packet, all of the Scouts going to summer camp will consult with the Scoutmaster and select which merit badges they wish to work on during camp. First year Scouts should select no more than two or three merit badges. Camping merit badgeThere will be a list of prerequisites for some merit badges. It is the Scout's responsibility to obtain the merit badge pamphlet, read it, and to complete the prerequisites prior to camp. Each first year scout should take Swimming and First Aid merit badges, so they may take other water sport badges the second year!

    If a Scout does not complete a merit badge with the counselor that he starts with (such as completing only part of the requirements during summer camp), the Scout has until his 18th birthday to complete the merit badge with another counselor. The Scout must still ask the Scoutmaster for the name of another counselor. In all cases, the final counselor who signs the completed merit badge application has the obligation to ensure that the Scout has properly completed the merit badge. It is up to the counselor how much work with a prior counselor will be accepted. Troop 226 offers merit badge classes on a regular basis. They normally start at 7:00 pm on Monday nights, at the church. These classes are announced at troop meetings, Troop e-mails and the Troop web page. Scouts may also contact counselors to arrange classes for themselves and a "Buddy."

    All parents in the troop have hobbies, professions, or interests that correspond to one or more of the merit badges. Parents are encouraged to share their expertise and enthusiasm for a subject by being a merit badge counselor. A merit badge counselor coaches and helps Scouts with the requirements of a specific merit badge and helps the Scouts become aware of the deeper aspects of the subject. Only registered merit badge counselors may sign the merit badge application card. To become a merit badge counselor, contact the troop Advancement Chairman for the appropriate registration forms. To learn more about what a merit badge counselor does, check out the booklet, Introduction to Merit Badge Counseling. Canoe merit badge

    The procedures for earning and receiving merit badges can be found in the Introduction to Merit Badges. Current requirements for all merit badges can be found on the Merit Badge Requirements pages. A listing of all current merit badge pamphlets, indicating the most recent edition for each pamphlet, can be found on the Merit Badge Pamphlets page.

    Back to topMedicalMedical

     Medical Forms

    Everyone (including adults) who goes camping with Troop 226 must have a Personal Health and Medical Record on file so that proper treatment can be made in the case of accident or injury.

    There are three classes of medical records. Class 1 and Class 2 are printed on the same form (Form 34414). Class 1 is a Personal Health and Medical History. A parent or guardian must update this section annually. The Class 1 section covers the bottom front and top half of the back of Form 34414. Class 2 is a Medical Evaluation and requires a physical examination within the past 36 months and a doctor's signature. Individuals (under 40) going to summer camp must have a current Class 2. Form 34414 is only to be used by individuals under the age of 40.

    Class 3 is Personal Health and Medical Record (Form 33412) and requires a physical examination and a doctor's signature. This form must be updated annually for individuals over 40 and is used by all individuals on high adventure trips, regardless of age.

    Medical Exam, Class 1 and 2          Medical Exam, Class 3

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    Community Service

    Boy Scout Slogan:                         Boy Scout Oath
    Do A Good Turn Daily        To help other people at all times

    Every Scout is expected to perform acts of charity and kindness and to develop a life long habit of community service and helpfulness towards his neighbor. Many Scouting awards and most of the ranks in Boy Scouts have a requirement to perform a certain number of service hours. Service projects to fulfill rank requirements must be approved in advance by the Scoutmaster. An hour of service may be giving your time to our charter organization, your community, or for a neighbor. For the purpose of rank advancement, Scouts may count service hours performed to meet requirements from their school and church. Scout signHowever, work, which directly benefits the Scout himself, his troop, or the Boy Scouts of America, does not usually count towards rank advancement.

    Scouts should seek out opportunities for performing community service and they should participate in the community service projects, which are scheduled by the troop.

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    Troop Leadership

    Boy Scouts is a unique organization in that the Scouts are responsible for planning and running most of the activities. The adult volunteers are there to provide advice, leadership training, transportation and administrative support. When a Scout has a question or concern about the troop, he should first go to the junior leadership rather than to the adult volunteers. In addition to your Boy Scout Handbook, more information on leadership and various junior leaders in a troop can be found in the Boy Scout Junior Leader Handbook.

    Patrols

    As a member of Troop 226 you will be a member of a patrol. Within each patrol, the Scouts elect a Patrol Leader who then appoints the other positions within the patrol. Your patrol should have its own flag. Each patrol flag Patrol emblem must include the patrol name and the phrase "Troop 226". Your patrol flag may also include such items as "The Colony, Texas", "Patrol Name"", "Troop Number" and a design. The patrol flags must also be smaller than half the size of the Troop flag. New and young Scouts start out in a New Scout patrol for about one year before joining a regular patrol. The new Scout patrols will have an experienced assistant Scoutmaster and an older Scout, called a Troop Guide, assigned to help them adjust to troop operations.

    Senior Patrol Leader

    The person in charge of the troop is the Senior Patrol Leader or SPL. He is elected to this office by all of the Scouts in the troop during a secret ballot. Troop elections are held in early February and again in early August. After consulting with the Scoutmaster, the Senior Patrol Leader appoints one or more Assistant Senior Patrol Leaders (ASPL), Order of the Arrow Troop Representative and Troop Instructors. Other troop leadership positions elected by the Troop include Quartermaster, Troop Historian, Librarian, and Chaplain Aide. A Scout must be active in the Troop and be at least Star in rank in order to be nominated for Senior Patrol Leader. SPL candidates will be interviewed by the Scoutmaster and selected Assistant Scoutmasters to make sure they are ready to lead the Troop if elected

    Patrol Leaders' Council

    All of the Patrol Leaders make up the governing body of the troop called the Patrol Leaders' Council (PLC), which is headed by the Senior Patrol Leader. The PLC conducts a troop program planning conference in August to outline the troop activities for the coming year. The PLC meets each month to take this outline and plan the details of troop meetings and outings for the coming month. The monthly PLC meetings are usually scheduled the Monday evening after each Campout. Anyone in the Troop, who would like to "observe" how the PLC conducts business, is more than welcome to attend.

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    Adult Volunteers

    Adult laughing

    Adult volunteers have several roles to choose from, and we ask that every adult who spends time with the boys (in any capacity) have current Youth Protection Training. To serve as a uniformed leader who works with the Scouts on a regular basis during weekly meetings and monthly outings, adults must become registered with BSA, take Boy Scout leadership training, and have a current Youth Protection Training card. Adults may choose to provide support for the Troop by registering to become a Troop Committee member or a Merit Badge Counselor (again, we ask that they keep current in Youth Protection Training). Committee members and uniformed leaders can also be Counselors. Tonkawa District offers "position-specific" training for all leadership positions. Registered Leaders can take Youth Protection Training "on line."

    The adults who work directly with the Scouts are the Scoutmaster and the assistant Scoutmasters. One of the most important jobs of the Scoutmaster corps is to train and guide the junior leaders in running THEIR troop. As you assume the various adult leadership positions within Troop 226, you can expect both formal leadership training and informal coaching from your Scoutmaster, fellow assistant Scoutmasters, and troop committee members.

    The troop committee provides the support that makes the program planned by the Patrol Leaders' Council a reality. A Committee Chairman organizes and delegates the tasks within the committee. Other key members of the committee are the Secretary, Treasurer, Outdoor/Activities Chairman, Advancement Chairman, Equipment Coordinator, Chaplain and assistant, and Training Coordinator.

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    Other Scouting Activities

    Religious Emblems:

    "A Scout is reverent." All Scouts show this by being faithful in their duty to God. You may go further and give a special service. This may qualify you for a religious emblem. Each faith has its own requirements for earning its emblem. You should contact your religious leader for further information if you are interested in earning your religious award. 

    Order of the Arrow:

    OAThe Order of the Arrow is a national brotherhood of Scout campers. The honor of becoming a member of the Order of the Arrow is one that you cannot set out to earn on your own. The members of your troop bestow this honor on you. This is done when you have proven yourself worthy of receiving it through active participation in troop activities. To achieve this, you must be an outstanding and unselfish camper and be at least First Class in rank and a minimum number of nights camping.

    Venture Patrol:

    VentureThis is a high adventure outdoor program for boys who are Star rank or higher and 14 years old. The Venture Patrol plans a few high adventure activities (in addition to the Troop activities) during the year to keep up the interest of the older, more experienced Scouts. The Venture Patrol also plays a key role in the Troop by serving in leadership and instructor positions.

     

    Twin Arrows/National Youth Leadership Training Course (NYLT):JLT

     This is a weeklong junior leadership-training course conducted by the Longhorn Council. A Scout must be 13-years old and at least First Class in rank to attend. The course teaches advanced leadership skills and has a heavy emphasis on outdoors skills and the patrol method.

    Mile swim

     

    BSA Lifeguard:

    This program is generally available at summer camp and will result, when successfully completed, in receiving a Lifeguard certificate. This is not an easy award to achieve.

    Your Boy Scout Handbook outlines many other special awards, which might be of interest to you. We encourage you to look them over.

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    Summer Camp

    Summer camp is the highlight of the year for most Scouts. Every Scout should plan on attending summer camp. Troop 226 usually goes to summer camp in mid-June, shortly after school is out. More details on this year’s summer camp will be distributed in a separate packet – designed around this year’s adventure!

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    Behavior, Conduct, Troop Rules

    All members of Troop 226, both youth and adults, are expected to live their daily lives in accordance with the Scout Oath and the Scout Law. The Oath and Law embodies the expectations of everyone's behavior and conduct.

    When a Scout misbehaves, the Scoutmaster or an assistant Scoutmaster will evaluate the situation, consider the circumstances, and then use his or her best judgment to make a decision that is fair and just. The response to misbehavior may come from the junior leaders in the troop or it may come from the adults.

    One of the aims of the Boy Scouts of America is to help young men develop strong moral character. Being a good father, a good husband, and an effective leader requires critical thinking and the ability to make sound judgments and ethical decisions. The adults in Troop 226 strive to be effective role models, applying common sense, fairness, and justice.

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    Troop 226 Code of Conduct

    Troop 226, as all troops should, operates by the Scout Oath and Law. Because we function under this precept, each and every Scout should demonstrate Scout-like behavior of all troop members. The Patrol Leaders’ Council (PLC) is responsible for Scout discipline and Scout’s Honor.

    There are two Groups of specific rules: Adults’ Area of Responsibility and Scouts’ Area of Responsibility. These rules are published so each Scout and Parent/Guardian may know what behavior is expected of them. The Adult Committee made the first group of rules to protect the health and safety of the boys. The second group of rules was made by the Scouts and is enforced by the Patrol Leaders’ Council.

    Group A ~ Adults’ Area of Responsibility - The Committee of Troop 226 has adopted these rules in the best interests of the Troop and the Scouts individually.

    1. The Scoutmaster or Leader in charge is responsible for each boy’s safety, and he must be respected as the final authority at all Scout-related functions.

    2. A minimum of two adult leaders ("two deep leadership"), who have currently and successfully completed BSA Youth Protection Training, will be present at all outings or activities.

    3. National BSA policy DOES NOT allow anyone to wear military or Para-military attire at scouting activities.

    4. All Scouts riding in vehicles will wear seatbelts.

    5. All drivers transporting Scouts will carry adequate liability insurance as set out in current BSA guidelines.

    6. No Scout may ride in a vehicle with a driver under 21 years of age without written parental consent verified by the adult Leader in charge.

    7. In order to participate in normal Troop camping and outdoor activities, each Scout must have an annual Permission Slip completed by their Parent/Guardian. This Permission slip releases the Troop to publish appropriate pictures of the Scouts at scouting events, and also releases Leaders to seek medical treatment in the event the Parent/Guardian cannot be reached. Additional Permission Slips may be requested for special activities or events.

    8. Each Scout’s Parent/Guardian will update a Medical History form for their Scout on an annual basis. The form includes: emergency telephone numbers, "next of kin" or other responsible parties who should be contacted if the Parent/Guardian is not available, insurance information, allergies, habits, conditions, medications required and any other vital information that might impact an adult leader’s ability to protect and maintain the Scout’s mental, physical, or emotional well-being.

    9. Sheath knives, knife blades longer than 4", radios, electronic games, etc., are not allowed by Troop 226.

    10. Liquid fuels or liquid fire starters may not be used to start wood or charcoal fires. Liquid fuel is not allowed in any campsite at any Troop activity.

    11. Adults must have had instruction from a Leader-appointed individual before they can connect, light, or turn off propane stoves and/or lanterns at a Troop activity.

    12. Adults must get permission from the Scoutmaster before cutting down or chopping on any tree (living or dead).

    13. Parent should drop off and pick up their Scout at the designated time.

    Parents are encouraged to attend/join the Troop Committee meetings any time. You do not have to be a registered adult leader to participate in the Committee meetings.

    Group B ~ Scouts’ Area of Responsibility 

    1. The Scoutmaster or Leader in charge is responsible for each boy’s safety, and he must be obeyed.

    2. The Patrol Leaders’ Council determines discipline and rules; any Scout with a Scout-oriented problem he can’t work out in his patrol has the right to speak before the Council.

    3. National BSA policy DOES NOT allow anyone to wear military or Para-military clothing at any Scouting activity.

    4. Sheath knives, knife blades longer than 4", radios, electronic games, etc., are not allowed at Scout activities.

    5. No Scout will carry or use a knife, axe, or saw in camp until he has had the proper Scout training and has been issued a "Tote’n Chip" card by the Scoutmaster.

    6. Scouts may not use liquid fuel or liquid fire starters to start wood or charcoal fires.

    7. Liquid fuels are not allowed in any campsite on a Scouting activity.

    8. Fires are for cooking, illumination, and warmth. There will be NO playing with, in, or around fires.

    9. Scouts must have training from a Leader-appointed individual before they can connect, light or turn off propane stoves or lanterns.

    10. Scouts must get permission from the Scoutmaster before cutting down or chopping on any tree (living or dead).

    11. Scouts should treat the meeting place and camping facility with proper respect. Any attempt to destroy or deface the area will result in a meeting with the Scout, their parents, and the Scoutmaster.

    12. Scouts should not use vulgar language or behavior at any time, at any Scout function.

    13. Campouts will run according to the Patrol Method. The PLC will have a program planned and ready for implementation prior to each campout.

    14. Patrol Leaders will submit menus to the Senior Patrol Leader for approval the meeting prior to the campout. Food cost and other expenses will already have been determined, so that each Scout’s money can be collected at the Troop meeting prior to the outing. If the Patrol does not have a menu to submit, they will be given a menu they must follow.

    15. A Scout improperly dressed for a Board of Review or behind in his Dues cannot be approved for rank advancement.

    16. A Scout being reviewed for rank must appear in uniform.

    17. Troop 226 always travels in uniform to and from events/campouts

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    Dues, Fund-Raising, and the Cost of Scouting

    9th point of the Scout Law: A Scout is Thrifty

    The Troop Committee recognizes that Scouting has become expensive and can be a strain on a household budget. No Scout should be prevented from participating for financial reasons. Financial assistance is available for any Scout who is unable to be fully involved in Scouts due to financial difficulty. Please contact either the Committee Chairman or the Scoutmaster.

    Each Scout is expected to pay his Troop Dues. Dues are $52 / year (this equates to $1 per week or $13 per quarter). Dues can be paid yearly or quarterly (January, April, July and October) to the Troop Treasurer.

    We have "Troop" fund-raisers for the purpose of partially financing Troop expenses … purchasing "advancement" badges and supplies, and maintaining troop equipment. As a member of Troop 226, you are required to participate in Troop fund-raising projects. This is keeping with the philosophy that a Scout is thrifty and should earn his own way in all Scouting activities.

    The Troop also has "Scout" fund-raisers for the purpose of generating funds to help finance Scout-related expenses: selling Boy Scout Popcorn in October and November along with all other Scouts in Longhorn Council, and our Troop Spaghetti Dinner and Garage Sale in the spring. We will most likely have other money raising opportunities throughout the year. We welcome new fundraiser ideas!

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    Accounting

    Scout/Adult "Accounts"

    The principle purpose of Scout/Adult Accounts is to provide a means for keeping track of funds generated through Unit fundraisers and designated for the use of a specific Scout or Adult. Personal cash or checks put into accounts must be designated for a specific purpose: summer camp or high adventure fee payments, etc. Accounts are kept confidential, but each Scout/Adult may view their own account at any time. Scouts/Adult will receive periodic emails of their account balance, but it is ultimately the Scout/Adult’s responsibility to keep up with their account. Troop budget and financial reports may be obtained by coming to committee meeting or requesting such through the treasurer.

    Money from "Scout" fundraisers is credited to each participating Scout’s individual Scout Account, and may only be used to pay for Scout-related expenses, including Dues, grub fees, activity/registration fees, summer camp, and high adventure trips (if there is an adequate balance). Scouts and adult leaders may also submit a "Reimbursement Request," along with the original receipt for the purchase of Scout-related equipment, Uniform, clothes, boots, etc., to the Committee Chair, and receive reimbursement for these purchases from their Scout/Adult Accounts (again, if there is an adequate balance).

    Refund Policy

    These Refund Policies are for Scouts and adult campers and would apply to activities such as: Summer Camp, Winter Camp, December’s "All Nighter," Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge, Spring and Fall Camp O Rees, Score-0, Canoe the Brazos, Scout Campouts (weekend), Special Activity fees, additional high-adventure activities, etc.

    1. Activity and/or transportation fee deposits paid to the Troop. The Troop collects a "Program Supply Fee" for some events; this fee is deducted from the first payment and is NOT refundable. It is the individual’s responsibility to submit a written request for refund to the Committee Chair ASAP. If the Troop has not yet sent a non-refundable deposit to the Event Facilitator, 100% of that individual’s event deposit will be refunded (minus Program Supply Fee, if applicable). Please understand some deposits are due weeks, if not months, in advance.

    2. All other money paid to the Troop toward an event fee, that the Troop has NOT YET paid to the event facilitator, will be refunded as follows:

    1. Money paid from a Scout/Adult Account will be credited back to that Account.

    2. Money paid by cash or check, designated for that specific event, may be refunded to the individual, or credited to an Account (at the individual’s discretion).

    Again, it is the individual’s responsibility to submit a written request for refund to the Committee Chair ASAP. If the Troop has already paid the full event fee to the Event Facilitator, the individual may (1) attempt to sell his "spot" to another Scout or adult, or (2) contact the Event Facilitator directly and ask for a refund.

    3. "Grub Fees." If a Scout or adult pays a grub fee (campout/activity food money), he will receive a 100% refund of the grub fee IF he contacts the Grubmaster (person designated to buy the food) before the Grubmaster has done the shopping. Please understand, shopping is done at the Grubmaster’s convenience.

    Leaving the Troop

    Scouts/adults leaving or transferring from our troop must submit written notice to the Committee Chair, to deal with any account balances. Accounts will be refunded as follows:

    1. Any money paid in advance for a high adventure or outing will be subject to the outing refund policy (above).

    2. All money earned via a fundraiser with our Troop, will stay with our Troop if the Scout is leaving Scouting. If the Scout is transferring to another Unit, once a transfer request is received and approved by the Troop Committee Chair, a check will be mailed to the new Unit.

    3. Donations made to Scouting on behalf of the individual, and put into their account, will be treated like fundraiser money.

    4. Dues are pro rated. If they are paid in advance via personal check or cash, "unused Dues" (for months when the scout is not a member of the troop) will be refunded.

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    All Right Reserved a2005 Boy Scout Troop 226, The Colony, Texas