scotteg83

44 minutes ago, qwazse said:

I don't get what good an Explorer Club does for 6 months. But maybe if you explain it may help some other stranger on the internet.

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Yes, mission statement was the wrong word choice, great call!

Explorer club means we can meet starting today, and have insurance coverage from our local council.  We still cannot earn advancement, but we can have organized meetings and start learning Scout Skills.

I would like to start off by saying I am looking for help advice or words of wisdom.

I am on the start-up committee for a New Girls Troop.  We have plans to potentially register now as an Explorer Club, and then transition to a Troop come February.  We have the CO and COR on board with the idea.  We have a strong troop that was said they would do what is "required" of them to help.  Our start-up committee plan to is to approach them with a "mission statement" or plan of action to become temporary linked with them.  We would like to use their committee to have our incoming committee (once they are all sourced) "job shadow" until they feel ready to take it on themselves.  We have a Mom that is willing to be SM, and enough support with experienced ASM to assist.

I am looking for feedback on what to include in our Mission statement.  Some ideas I can think of:

-Meeting place sharing (Troop uses the fellowship hall at the church, the Girls unit will go into the Chorus room)

-Sharing Opening, Game, and Closing (I feel this is only if the Boys PLC agree to this) - over time, this will be moved to our space and done by our girls

-Sharing equipment.  We are going to recruit and pull from 5 surrounding towns, and plan to approach all 5 troops with an Equipment usage waiver in hopes they will assist as needed.  At least until we start to grow our own.

-Sharing Committee.  We have some ideas on CC, Advancement and Treasurer, but would like them to shadow the troops members.  The troop has been around for 85 years, and the current CC and Advancement Chair are probably the best in the area to model after. 

-Female Troop leadership with sit on Board of Reviews and Scoutmaster conferences to learn first hand experience on how to do their own.  Once the girls are ready for advancement themselves, the Boys Troop SM and CC with assist the new Female leadership to conduct their own.

-Sharing COH.  Until we grow in size, this might be suggested.  Or still to small COH to celebrate separately. 

-We plan to have 2 registered females at all Troop meetings, therefore not pulling any extra requirements from the Boy troop leadership.

-We will not push for jointed camp-outs, however, we would appreciate Older boy support on our first couple shakedown runs.  We will reach out to all 5 troops on this one.

-If both Troop PLCs decided to have a jointed camp-out, that will ok, with the correct YPT rules. 

Can't think of anything more at the time, but please leave feedback or suggestions

Not condoning premarital sex, but where in the Scout Oath and Laws do you see anything against it?  I can understand Drugs, because it most states its illegal. 

And it would never be "okay", but I wouldn't hold judgement against them either.  I would hope they discussed all the options and are taking the next responsible step.

I attend the Weekly Meetings and PLC Meetings (1 hour prior to each Troop Meeting) as an ASM, I make it to about 90% of all the campouts (Once a month).  I attend the Monthly Committee meeting.   Besides that, I don't truly spend any extra time as a ASM on it.  Our unit is a well oiled machine (so it seems) and has been running smoothly for awhile now (85 years charter).  In fact, I maybe stepping up to become SM here shortly, and I don't see my time being added on.

Being active on the Pack level is a hole different animal.

And I don't include my time as a District Program Chair as time for the Pack and Troop level, that work is on me.

Working on a similar thing here.

Our location 2 packs show need for a Girls Troop, and I will probably be the ASM for it.

Don't have any first hand experience on starting a new unit.  Do you know if you have an Venturing units nearby that their females could come and give a "crash course" on camping to the new recruits?

Both the Pack and Troop I am apart of pays for leadership dues.

They both have that cost considered in their budget.

On 10/04/2018 at 10:31 AM, perdidochas said:

Here's a question for you: Do you think you are doing your duty to God by rarely attending church? 

 

That said, use your parents for that reference. IMHO, at your age, parents are in charge of your religious education, etc. 

since you raised the question, How does going to church show your duty to God?  You can practice religion without going to Church.  And there are plenty of youth that go to church that aren't Religious.

I like them, but when shown on a actual person, they didn't seem long enough, but they are "over the calf".  Just seems like they would keep falling down

So this is a Webelos camping with the Troop? 

Not that we had the issue yet, but my daughter is a Webelos, and I am waiting for that issue to arrive (Wife doesn't camp, and shes the den leader, I am just the assistant).

However, in our Troop past, we have always required the Webelos Parents to attend the campout.  I know its not true YPT coverage, but I would rather have the Girl Camp with her Mom (leader or not). If the Mom will not camp, then there's your out. 

Family Camping is weird.  Its my understanding that I can camp with my daughter, and share a tent, but only if there is a Female Registered leader on site. 

2 hours ago, gblotter said:

Our troop is engaged in summer camp planning right now. During the discussions, I alerted the boys that next summer they will be joined by girls at summer camp. Several boys then asked that we organize our own summer camp instead and completely avoid BSA summer camps. Those discussions are still ongoing. The concept of co-ed summer camp is proving to be a big deal for both boys and parents.

 

With so few girl troops anticipated, perhaps the real question should be why so many summer camp weeks are being designated as co-ed.

There was someone on Facebook complaining because their council chose the "crappy" camp for Girls only weeks, and the "better" camp was still boy only.  Why should Girls (who are supposed to have full access to the program) be limited in their outings as well.

Our local Scout camp did a Venture, Ship, Post, etc week that was Co-ed.  They did the merit badges and experiences (not that they could earn them officially, unless they were dual registered as a Scout)

5 minutes ago, Hawkwin said:

Was the rule requiring female YPT leaders in effect by this summer? I feel like it wasn't a requirement at that time but I don't honestly recall.

The Female rule was part of the early adopter program, which all of our attendees were apart of.

1 minute ago, Eagle1993 said:

It should be handled the same way current extensions are handled.  It is rare, but there are extensions granted beyond 18.  This just makes it clear how Nationals will handle these extension requests.  

I also expect this exception will be rare.  First, you need a youth to join in 2019 that is 16 or older by Feb 1.  Second they need to be motivated enough to file and extension by Jan 7, 2020.  Third they need to be willing to stay in Scouts probably past High School.  I think we are talking hundreds not thousands of extensions.  

 

I wouldn't even say high hundreds.  Most girls I know at the troop age, want to join for the activities.  I have only met 1 that wants Eagle (but shes young enough to achieve it properly).

My council is dragging its feet on everything.  We even had girls at Webelos Resident camp this last summer, and ran into some YPT cover issues (no female leadership for some attendees), but still have yet put in a plan for next year.  Its almost like they are waiting for National to just hand them a set of expectations.

12 minutes ago, Roadkill Patrol said:

So much for previous statements that the program would not change.  Now they change the rules to make sure there will be a female Eagle Scout in the inaugural year.  Where were the adjusted rules when they opened registration to homosexual scouts.  Those scouts did not get any benefit to being able to join and obtain their Eagle if they did not have enough time.

The program isn’t changing.  They still have to do all the same work as before. If they are between 16-18 when they join, they can ask for a 24 month extension to finish properly. 

Also, not sure what you mean by inaugural year, there will be no Female Eagles in 2019. 

12 minutes ago, NJCubScouter said:

This thread is a merger of the one started by Scotteg83 here and the one started by Eagle1993 under Open Discussion. Eagle’s title has been used but Scott’s is the “surviving” thread.  If that makes any sense.

Sweet! I “win”. Just got to work on my title game!

Taken from Facebook. 

https://filestore.scouting.org/filestore/pdf/Implementation-Details-for-Scouts-BSA-FINAL.pdf

IMPLEMENTION DETAILS FOR FEMALES ENTERING SCOUTS BSA
Temporary Transition Rules
On February 1, 2019, the Boy Scouts of America will begin admitting girls into Scouts BSA. One of the characteristics of Scouting—for over a hundred years—is that no matter when you join, however long you stay, or the rank you attain, the Scouting experience prepares you for life. And for some, the pinnacle of their Scouting experience is achieving the highest rank of Eagle Scout.
The policies of the BSA indicate that, except in extraordinary circumstances, a youth desiring to achieve the rank of Eagle must do so before the youth’s 18th birthday. This will continue to be our policy.
It is in the interests of the entire BSA, and in fact our nation, that all girls who join the BSA in 2019 should have an opportunity to earn their Eagle badge should they diligently and promptly complete all requirements. Accordingly, after carefully considering recommendations from stakeholders, including feedback from volunteers and professionals at the 2018 Top Hands Meeting, the National Executive Committee of the Boy Scouts of America has approved the following temporary transition rules regarding extensions for youth over 16 but not yet 18 years of age on February 1, 2019 to complete the requirements for the Eagle Scout award.
To preserve the integrity of the Eagle Scout Award, no exceptions to or waivers of any of the requirements for the Eagle Scout Award are permitted under this limited exception, and all requirements must be completed while the individual is a registered member of Scouts BSA, or after achieving the First-Class Rank in Scouts BSA (as specified in the BSA Guide to Advancement).
Since the BSA has determined that the minimum period of elapsed time to complete the requirements of the Eagle Scout rank is approximately 19-20 months, the extension is not available to any youth who is under 16 years of age on February 1, 2019 (as they will have adequate time to earn their Eagle before turning 18) nor to any youth who has already turned 18 years of age on February 1, 2019 (as they will be ineligible to join Scouts BSA).
1. Youth 16 years of age or older, but not yet 18, on February 1, 2019 who register as members of Scouts BSA on or before December 31, 2019, may request extensions to complete the Eagle Scout Award requirements after they turn 18 years of age.
2. Requests for extensions must be received no later than thirty (30) days after turning 18 years of age. Extensions must be in writing by submitting the designated form to the National Service Center and the form must be received no later than January 7, 2020. Only the National Council may grant extensions. The actual extension will be based upon the individual’s registration date and age at the time of the request and will provide not more than twenty-four months from the date of initial registration to complete all requirements.
3. In the interest of fairness, these temporary transition rules apply to all youth joining Scouts BSA during 2019–both girls and first-time joining boys.
Recognition
In keeping with established policy, the Eagle Scout rank is earned when the candidate’s award has been approved by the National Council.
The BSA will not recognize a first female Eagle Scout to avoid potentially introducing incentives for leaders, troops or Scouts to prioritize expediency or engage in behavior counter to Scouting’s values.
Instead, the BSA will officially recognize our Inaugural Class of Female Eagle Scouts in the fall of 2020, providing young women who join Scouts BSA the needed time to complete all requirements. This Inaugural Class will be celebrated nationally and collectively commemorated.
It is our hope and expectation that local units will ensure substantial individual recognition of their first female Eagle Scouts in a manner befitting their great accomplishments.
  
IMPLEMENTION DETAILS FOR FEMALES ENTERING SCOUTS BSA
FAQ
Q: Is the BSA changing the Eagle Scout requirements for girls joining Scouts BSA in 2019?
No – the Eagle Scout rank requirements are not changing.
Q: Can troops, districts or councils amend or adjust the requirements/process?
No. Eagle Scout requirements are set by the National Council and cannot be adjusted by a troop, district or council. In fact, the Eagle Scout rank is earned when it is approved by the National Council.
Q: Will work completed while girls participated unofficially before the introduction of Scouts BSA count towards Eagle requirements?
No. To preserve the integrity of the Eagle Scout Award, all requirements must be completed while the individual is a registered member of Scouts BSA, or after achieving the First-Class Rank in Scouts BSA (as specified in the BSA Guide to Advancement, an individual after earning First Class Rank in Scouts BSA may transfer primary membership to Venturing or Sea Scouts and continue to work on Eagle Scout requirements).
Q: Will work that female Venturers or Sea Scouts completed count toward Eagle Scout requirements?
To preserve the integrity of the Eagle Scout Award, all requirements must be completed while the individual is a registered member of Scouts BSA, or after achieving the First-Class Rank in Scouts BSA (as specified in the BSA Advancement Guide, an individual after earning First Class Rank in Scouts BSA may transfer primary membership to Venturing or Sea Scouts and continue to work on Eagle Scout requirements).
Q: Will camping nights from current Venturing and Sea Scouts that count for requirements for the Order of the Arrow, also count for the Eagle Scout rank? No.
Q: Will this extension always be available for all youth that enter Scouts BSA?
No. These are temporary transition rules and will not be available to any youth who is under 16 years of age on February 1, 2019 as they will have adequate time to earn their Eagle before turning 18.
Q: Can the first female Eagle Scout be identified based on the earliest Board of Review date?
No. The Eagle Scout rank is earned when it is approved by the National Council; that date will be noted to recognize this inaugural class.

2 hours ago, GSleaderSG said:

We have tried to work with troop leadership to formulate plans for behavior management.  We have gotten assurances from the scoutmaster that leadership will work with  my son to help him integrate better but these plans are not followed through on. This includes situations where other members of the leadership team have contradicted plans we discussed with the scoutmaster (largely due to them not being informed of the plans) and poor communication.

 

So was the plan?

If he is not integrated well, maybe its time to see other troops and check them out

16 hours ago, RichardB said:

https://www.scouting.org/health-and-safety/gss/gss01/  is the most up to date location moving forward for the Barriers to Abuse.    A one source of truth if you will.   The "72 hours rule" is All adults accompanying a Scouting unit who are present at the activity for 72 total hours or more must be registered as leaders. The 72 hours need not be consecutive." 

The intent of this policy is to protect participants - both youth and adults - and maintain a Safe Scouting environment.  

It is event centric.  Examples of where this applies today in Scouting are resident camps, treks, long term camping.   

Sorry for any confusion.  Can assure you all the member care team is now aligned.   

As you have bantered, there are mixed messages locally.   Some councils may be requiring all folks to be registered, as are some chartered organizations.   That EXCEEDS the Barriers to Abuse, and that's okay.   So if you are hearing something different, might check to see what your local folks have established.  

You might hit the link above if you haven't this week and review some to the linked FAQ's.   

Yours in Scouting, RichardB

I appreciate the response Richard.  Now if we can get the Guide updated to sale Event Centric, or get a memo out to the scouting world. 

On 09/15/2018 at 10:14 PM, qwazse said:

 Funny how when I was a kid, I thought the shooting sports program at camp existed to show me how to set up my range safely.

Not saying what we did was proper,

but as a Scout, we had a yearly campout at an Assistant Scoutmaster's property the weekend of thanksgiving.  We used the farm field next door to shoot rifles, shotguns, black powder, and hand guns. Then had a wonderful spit roasted venison for dinner.  One of my best scout memories growing up.

On 09/15/2018 at 9:44 PM, SSScout said:

First question:   Where do  you go to use such things?  Second: Who is the Trained BSA Range Officer ?   I have never heard of a Troop operating such things on their own. Gotta have a Council sanctioned range and Range Officer, yes?  Private range ? Archery Club?  Tomahawk Throwing Club ?  

http://www.ncacbsa.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/10/NCAC-So-You-Want-to-Hold-a-Shooting-Actvity-February-Printing.pdf

Sounds like if you follow this councils lead, you can easily hold your own shooting events.

I would continue with your program, speaks more to your pack then forcing a change.

Of course, over time those yellow will go missing, and someday you will have to start replacing them with red ones, but thats a future pack problem

I currently have 4 active uniform shirts. 

1. District Committee Shirt

2. Assistant Scoutmaster

3. Webelos Den leader

4. Blank.  I have my knots and shoulder patch, but nothing else.  Debating to leave it blank or use Velcro.  This shirt I have as a backup, take it camping if my normal shirt gets dirty, etc.

I also have 2 more completely blank shirts (no patches at all) waiting in my closet. 

And I have 4 pairs of convertable pants (stocked up when they went on clearance), and 3 different versions of socks.  Currently using one style belt.

In my closest, I have the 4 shirts hanging, each with its corresponding neckerchief and slide, and hat

From what I've heard on Facebook.  If your current leaders do not take it before the cutoff, when it comes to recharter, they will not be on the charter, and you will have to get a new adult application and YPT to register them. 

3 minutes ago, Eagledad said:

While walking through camp on a beautiful Saturday morning, a scout yelled at me asking if the rinse water for KP was supposed to be hot or cold. Before I had time to respond, he had already turned around toward his tent yelling in the same loud tone, "I know, get the Scout Handbook". 

I must admit, I have been concerned that technology is robbing us of opportunities to develop character. A free digital Scout Handbook? That can't be good.

Barry

There's a free digital Scout Handbook?  If you are talking about Scoutbook, that is just to track advancement, camping, hiking, service hours, etc.  It has no actual learning in it, a paper handbook is still needed.

44 minutes ago, walk in the woods said:

Fire the Secretary.  If she "hates" the Den Leader's guts, and the DL's wife is the new Advancement Chair, you've got the seed for way too much adult drama to play out.  If I knew someone on the committee hated me, I wouldn't be a Den Leader for one second.  Life's too short.  You may be working on the wrong problem.

Not to sound rude, but a Den Leader is more important of a position to fill then a Secretary.  Either they work out their issues themselves, or you will have to do it for them.