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Adult Leaders Behavior -- Adult leaders of Pack 50 are expected to maintain a standard of conduct, even outside of pack time. For example, someone who abuses drugs or alcohol (i.e., gets drunk) will not make a suitable leader. Given the rampant abuse of alcohol, tobacco, and various drugs in our culture, we request that our adult leaders set a good example by not using any tobacco on pack outings or activities. As for alcohol, there is an official policy with our national organization: "The Boy Scouts of America prohibits the use of alcoholic beverages and controlled substances at encampments or activities on property owned and/or operated by the Boy Scouts of America, or at any activity involving participation of youth members." Two-Deep Leadership -- The rules of the Boy Scouts of America's national organization require "two-deep" leadership at all events, for the protection of the boys. This means that at no time can only one adult be with a boy or boys on a campout or other activity. If a second adult cannot be found to accompany the group, then the event must be cancelled. Respect for Adults -- Boys in Pack 50 address adults by their proper title, e.g., "Mr. Hoffmann." We realize this isn't very common these days, but it is a good way to get the boys to show respect to their adult leaders (and it's what they already do for teachers and most coaches). Respect for Peers -- While a little friendly teasing and rough-housing is natural and healthy for boys, we enforce respect for peers. (E.g., we will not tolerate bullying, excessive teasing and mean-spirited making fun of other boys, as well as any use of profanity.) Also, boys are expected to pay attention when someone is talking to the group. No electronic gadgets -- We do not allow devices such as cell phones, MP3 players, and gameboys on pack outings. There is nothing inherently wrong with these activities, but it robs the boy's time and attention away from other activities that are more helpful to his development. Believe it or not, boys in the 21st century still can have a lot of fun the old-fashioned way! (Note that adults may carry cell phones for emergency use and to provide a heads-up for return time.) Safety -- The Boy Scouts of America puts out a document that has all the minimum rules of safety that every Boy Scout pack needs to follow: "The Guide to Safe Scouting" (GTSS) http://www.scouting.org/scoutsource/HealthandSafety/GSS.aspx Please read that and let us know if you have any questions. It covers safety while in the water (swimming, canoeing, sailing, etc.), safety while camping, first aid, youth protection, transportation, stoves and campfires, winter activities, and others. Tips for new parents on campouts -- Parents of Scouts are always welcomed and encouraged to join us on campouts! Here are some tips for parents who may be new to our pack: ◦ No alcohol -- Alcohol is completely forbidden at any Scouting event by the Boy Scouts of America. ◦ No tobacco -- smoking is prohibited on the grounds of L.E. Phillips Scout Reservation. If you must smoke on other campouts, please do so discretely so that boys don't see you, and never in a tent or cabin or vehicle with boys. ◦ No firearms -- Firearms are permitted only on official Boy Scout rifle ranges, not on normal campouts. ◦ Avoid profanity -- remember that adults are serving as role models for the boys, so let's avoid swearing. ◦ Disciplining your own son Discipline should be enforced in a controlled fashion. The boys should be pulled aside from the activity as to not disturb the Pack activities. ◦ Let your son sleep in a tent with his pack or den -- many new parents think they're doing their young son a favor by sleeping with him, but we find that it's better for the Scout to bond with the boys in his pack or den and get a little independence from Mom and Dad. He'll appreciate that you're nearby, even if he doesn't show it. Participation All scouts are expected to participate in the community service projects during the year (Scout Food Drive, and others that may be announced). All scouts are expected to participate in the fund raising projects during the year (popcorn sales, candy bar sales). Parents are required to assist their sons from the tiger to bear levels. Scouts are expected to attend all den and pack meetings, however, we understand illness or scheduling may conflict with scheduled meeting times. If a scout is going to miss a meeting, please contact your den leader to let them know and to get the materials covered at the missed meeting. The materials missed will not be covered again by the den leaders. It is the parents responsibility to cover the missed material with the scout. Parents are also expected to attend meetings with their sons. Please speak to your den leader about scheduling conflicts. If a parent is not able to attend with the scout, a parent or other responsible adult must sign the scout into and out of the meeting. This is for the safety of all the boys. Dress Code Proper attire is expected at public events (flag ceremonies, community service events, etc.) Proper attire is defined as Class A uniforms with jeans or khaki pants or shorts. Please no sweat pants.
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