Turlock Scouts - Parent's Guide

K-5th grade -> Parent's Guide

Welcome to Cub Scout Pack 451

We’re glad that your family has joined Scouting and we hope you and your child(ren) will have great adventures with Cub Scout Pack 451. Pack 451 has been meeting in Turlock, CA for over 25 years and continues to thrive due to the dedication of its volunteer leaders and parents like you! We all believe that Scouting is an important part of the physical, mental, and spiritual development of our children.

Pack 451 is in the Rio del Oro District that is part of the Greater Yosemite Council, Boy Scouts of America.

The Greater Yosemite Council serves the following Central California counties: Calaveras, Mariposa, Merced, San Joaquin, Stanislaus, Tuolumne, and parts of Sacramento. The Greater Yosemite Council is divided into 3 administrative districts: Rio del Oro, Gold Country and Sierra Valley.

The character developing programs of Cub Scouting, Boy Scouting, Varsity Scouting, and Venturing are provided in partnership with the Boy Scouts of America and serves over 7,000 youth.

Now here is a funny little history lesson! From what we have found, Turlock has been active in Scouting since 1969! However, they disbanded in 1983 with 10 participants. Then, in 1992 First United Methodist Church sponsored the Pack to get it back up and running! Thank you FUMC!

About Our Chartered Organization

All Cub Scout Packs are associated with a chartering organization that sponsors them, provides meeting facilities, and approves the selection of leaders. Pack 451 is chartered by First United Methodist Church located at 1660 Arbor Way in Turlock, California.

Scouting tries to inoculate a strong moral value system within its members, including the most important element - a belief in God and a sense of duty and reverence towards Him.

Boy Scouts of America organization does not define the specifics of any particular religion except to say that God must be the center of it. The BSA encourages its members to actively practice their own religious faith in worship of Him. Scouting is a non- denominational religious and educational institution and all faiths are welcome.

You do not have to be a member of First United Methodist Church to join Pack 451.

Pack Organization

A group of approximately 5 to 10 Scouts of the same age who are working on earning the same rank make up a Den. All of the Dens together make up the Pack.

Individual dens have a Den Leader(s) and

Assistant Den Leader(s). These leaders plan and execute the weekly den meetings.

The Pack Committee is headed by the Pack

Committee Chair, and includes the following areas/positions:

• Secretary

• Treasurer

• Advancement

• Membership

• Outings/Activities

• Communications

• Quartermaster

• Public Relations

A Pack Committee, consisting of at least three interested parents, leaders, and members of the Chartered Organization, is responsible to support the Pack in areas such as to plan and implement pack activities, fundraising events, field trips, outings, camping trips, banquets, derbies, etc. These positions are filled by parent volunteers and no experience is necessary to fill these roles. We have openings if you can help out!

The Cubmaster and Assistant Cubmaster(s) plan and execute monthly Pack meetings around monthly themes. The Cubmaster, Assistant Cubmasters, and Pack Trainer work to support the Den Leaders and encourage and provide training relevant to the leader’s position.

Meetings

Each den for Pack 451 meets 1-3 times a month depending on that specific den at the First United Methodist Church, 1660 Arbor Way (Turlock, CA). Please see your Scout’s specific Den Leader for meeting and schedule information. Your Scout’s Den Leader will discuss your den’s meeting schedule and location and will inform you of any changes. Please try to arrive at meetings on time.

Please pick your Scout up promptly at the end of the scheduled meeting time. For the safety of our Scouts, we cannot let them wait for you outside. We ask you to please come inside to get your Scout. Leaders are required to stay with your Scout until you pick them up. This is a good opportunity for you to take a few minutes and talk to your Scout’s Den Leader.

Your promptness will help keep these volunteers from being inconvenienced!

Our Calendar is also available on Scoutbook.

www.scoutbook.com

Pack Meetings

Once a month, all Dens meet together for a “Pack Meeting”, which all Cub Scouts and their families are encouraged to attend. The Pack Meeting is a fun time for everyone. Dens show off the projects they have been working on, lead songs, perform skits, and awards are presented to the Scouts. It is a time for the family to get information on upcoming activities and join in the excitement while watching your Scout advance!

The Pack Meeting is usually the 3rd Tuesday of the month but may change due to legal holidays or other events. See Scoutbook for exact dates and times. Regardless of the time that your Scout’s Den meets, Pack Meetings will take place from 6:00 PM to 7:00 PM unless stated otherwise.

Awards are a very important part of the Scouting program. They are intended to help build self-esteem by providing recognition for a Scout’s hard work. We encourage you to applaud, whistle, and cheer for all of the Scouts as they are presented with their awards at Pack Meetings.

Den Meetings

Den Meetings are held weekly and provide your Scout with opportunities to enjoy various planned activities, learn new skills, and have great fun! While parental attendance is not required (except with Lions & Tigers), it is certainly encouraged! Some dens will require parent participation at specific meetings. Please keep in touch with your Scout’s Den Leader so that you will know what activities are taking place and can track the progress your Scout is making. Meeting rooms will be assigned when the dens show up for their first meeting. Parent volunteers are strongly encouraged and needed! It takes a village!

Cub Scout Ranks

Cub Scout Packs are organized into 3 basic groups: Lion and Tiger Cubs, Cub Scouts (Wolf and Bear ranks), and Webelos Scouts (Webelos and Arrow of Light ranks).

The Lion and Tiger Cub program is significantly different from the rest of the Cub Scout program in terms of activities, recognition, and level of parent participation. It serves as a good introduction to Scouting for both the Scout and their parent(s)/ guardian(s).

Lion, Tiger, Wolf, and Bear are 1-year programs. The Webelos program runs for approximately 18 months.

All new Scouts must first earn the Bobcat badge. After earning this badge, Scouts work towards the rank of Lion, Tiger, Wolf, Bear, Webelos or Arrow of Light depending on their grade. Each of these ranks has its own unique handbook from which the Scouts work on their advancement. At the Bridging ceremony, the Pack provides a handbook for each Scout to keep track of their progress.

Bobcat

The Bobcat badge is the first badge that is earned by all Lion, Tiger, Wolf, Bear, Webelos and Arrow of Light Scouts. This badge is required for all Scouts because it involves learning the Scout Oath, Scout Law, Scout Motto and other fundamental aspects of Cub Scouting.

Completion of this badge gives the Scout the right to wear the Bobcat badge on their uniform (in the twelve o’clock position of the front left shirt pocket) and the right to proceed to their next rank (which will vary based upon grade).

The Cub Scout and Webelos Scout programs are similar in many respects. The Webelos program places more emphasis on outdoor activities. The focus of the Webelos program is to prepare the Scouts to enter a Scout Troop.

Lion (Kindergarten)

In the Lion program, an Adult Partner (a parent, grandparent, or other guardian) always accompanies each boy. The Lion and Adult Partner form a team. The first few Lion meetings are organized and run by the Lion Den Leader in order to introduce the Lions and Adult Partners to Scouting. After that, each Lion/Adult team selects a topic from the Lion handbook and presents the topic to the Lion Den (one topic per meeting).

The Lion earns belt loops as they work towards their Lion badge. Completion of this badge earns the right for the Scout to wear the Lion patch on their uniform (in the position just above the bottom of the left shirt pocket).

At the end of the Scout year (in May), Lions graduate into a Tiger Den.

Tiger (1st Grade)

In the Tiger Cub program, an Adult Partner (a parent, grandparent, or other guardian) always accompanies each boy. The Tiger Cub and Adult Partner form a team. The first few Tiger Cub meetings are organized and run by the Tiger Cub Den Leader in order to introduce the Tigers and Adult Partners to Scouting. After that, each Tiger/Adult team selects a topic from the Tiger Cub handbook and presents the topic to the Tiger Den (one topic per meeting).

The Tiger Cub earns progress beads towards his Tiger Cub badge. Completion of this badge earns the right for the Scout to wear the Tiger patch on their uniform (in the six o’clock position of the front left shirt pocket, directly beneath the Bobcat patch).

At the end of the Scout year (in May), Tigers graduate into a Wolf Den.

Wolf (2nd Grade)

In the Wolf program, completion of achievements in the Wolf handbook leads to earning the Wolf badge and Arrow Points (for extra activities). Arrow Points can be worked on during the entire year, but cannot be awarded until the Wolf badge has been earned.

The Wolf handbook includes many activities that are family oriented. Your Scout will need your assistance to earn this rank. Completion of this badge earns the right for the Scout to wear the Wolf patch on their uniform (in the nine o’clock position of the front left shirt pocket) and the right to earn Arrow Points.

Arrow Points are worn under the Wolf patch (see the section on placement of emblems and insignia near the end of the handbook). The first Arrow Point earned as a Wolf is gold, all others are silver.

At the end of the Scout year (in May), Wolves graduate into a Bear Den.

Bear (3rd Grade)

In the Bear program, completion of achievements in the Bear handbook leads to earning the Bear badge (and Arrow Points for extra activities). Arrow Points can be worked on during the entire year, but cannot be awarded until the Bear badge has been earned. The Bear handbook includes many activities that are family oriented. Your Scout will need your assistance to earn this rank.

Completion of this badge earns the right for the Scout to wear the Bear patch on their uniform (in the three o’clock position of the front left shirt pocket) and the right to earn Arrow Points. Arrow Points are worn under the Bear patch (see the section on placement of emblems and insignia near the end of the handbook). The first Arrow Point earned as a Bear is gold, all others are silver.

At the end of the Scout year (in May), Bears graduate into a Webelos Den.

Webelos (4th Grade)

The Webelos program (and there is always an “s” at the end of Webelos) is designed to transition the boys from Cub Scouts to Boy Scouts. In the Webelos program, Scouts earn activity pins in areas such as geology, scholarship, fitness, and outdoorsmanship that count towards the Webelos rank.

As such, it is really broken into 2 phases, based upon the rank badge being earned.

In the First-Year Webelos program, the Scouts work on their Webelos badge. Additional achievements beyond the Webelos badge earn the Compass Emblem and “Compass Points”. The focus of the Webelos Den is to work together as a team, much like a Boy Scout Patrol. This includes Webelos Den camping.

The Webelos program prepares the boys to enter the Boy Scout program. (Webelos is an acronym for “We’ll Be Loyal Scouts”).

Arrow of Light (5th Grade)

The Second-Year Webelos program, Scouts work on the Arrow of Light award. You may find some literature that refers to this program as Webelos 2 Den or Arrow of Light Den.

The Arrow of Light is the highest award that a Cub Scout can earn and one of the few Cub Scout emblems that may be worn on the Boy Scout uniform.

In many Packs, the 2nd-Year Webelos Scouts are awarded the Arrow of Light at the Blue and Gold Banquet, just moments before ending their Cub Scout career. In our Pack, we aim to have the Scouts complete the award by end of the Fall of their Webelos 2 year, thus allowing them time to proudly wear the award as a Cub Scout.

Parents/Guardians must complete the Youth Protection Training (YPT) every 2 years (online or in-person training session)

To complete YPT online, visit the website: www.scouting.org/training/youth-protection/

You may optionally choose to subscribe to the monthly Boy’s Life magazine for $12 (annually). This magazine is geared towards Scouts, and ties in closely with the monthly scouting program activities.

If the annual registration fee places an excessive burden on your family’s finances (especially if you have more than one Scout), please contact the Cubmaster, Pack Committee Chairman, or Pack Committee Treasurer to discuss alternate arrangements. Although the Pack depends on this fee to fund our many activities, we would like to see all children able to participate in Scouting and we do not want the registration fee to be an obstacle.

Facility Guidelines

Please Show Respect for Our Meeting Place and our Chartered Organization, First United Methodist Church

We are fortunate to have the support of the church leadership and we are proud to be associated with this church in our community.

We have a tradition of respecting property and do not wish to reflect negatively on Scouting or on First United Methodist Church.

We understand that “kids will be kids” and outbursts of enthusiasm will occur. However, there may be other groups meeting in the building at the same time we are meeting, so please be polite to them, and reasonably quiet so as not to disturb what they are doing. We are guests in this building! Please avoid running and yelling in the halls and do your best to keep everything neat and clean. Please ask your Scout to stay away from the piano, and/or other church equipment that may be present while we are meeting.

We always provide all of our own materials for our programs, so there should never be any need to use any of the church’s materials found in the classrooms. Please leave the classrooms and other facilities set up the way you found them, or even neater than you found.

First United Methodist Church understands that, upon occasion, accidents happen and that things get worn, dirty, and broken. Pack 451 is committed to act responsibly to prevent as much damage as possible and to be good stewards of what we have graciously been given by the church. We will check all of the facilities before and after our meetings, especially the bathrooms and grounds. We will clean, repair, replace, or reimburse as needed. If you see any problems, please alert the Den Leaders or Cubmaster right away!

Note specifically that the church has instructed us that the use of the playground is prohibited.

You can help by talking frankly with your Scout about the importance of respect and stewardship and what their responsibilities are. We want to remain a welcome part of First United Methodist Church!

Fundraising

Trails End Popcorn Sales

Every year the Pack participates in the Trails End Popcorn sale. The sale usually occurs Aug-Oct and is the major fundraising activity of our Pack. Scouts who participate in this event receive a ‘fundraiser’ patch and other recognition. The sales are conducted via online, wagon sales or site sales.

Everyone’s participation is expected

and appreciated. The Pack retains 3-5% of the

proceeds of the popcorn sold. Over 20% of the proceeds go to the Scout’s account!

Scout Accounts

Each Scout has a Scout Account where their fundraising proceeds are applied. Scouts use this account to pay for Scout activities such as membership fees, uniforms, camping, etc. If a Scout drops out of Scouting, their remaining balance gets applied to the Pack account. However, if that Scout has a sibling in Cub Scouts/Boy Scouts, you are able to transfer that balance to the sibling. We do not cash out any Scout Accounts.

Registration & Membership

Our Pack’s charter runs annually from August to June and the Pack encourages all Scouts to re-register for the next year no later than November 30th.

Membership Fees can be paid using your Scout’s account from fundraising, check, cash or via PayPal (451cubs@gmail.com).

A portion of this fee is paid to the BSA national organization registration fee, local Council to cover liability insurance, Unit Charter fee and BSA operating expenses. The remainder of the registration/membership fee is broken down as follows:

35% Advancement & Awards (re-review %’s)

15% Books

14% Slides/Neckerchiefs

14% Leader costs

7% Parade entry fees

4% Pinewood Derby event

4% Raingutter Regatta event

3.5% Bridging Ceremony

3.5% Blue & Gold Banquet

Popcorn Sales Participation Discount: $50

Renewal Late Fee: $30 (Still apply?)

These membership dues (combined with proceeds of fundraising activities) are used by the Pack to pay for Scout awards, leader training, slides & neckerchiefs, books for renewing Scouts, campsite rentals, den expenses, parade entry fees, the Pinewood Derby event, Rocket Derby event, miscellaneous events, craft supplies, facilities rental, banquet food & decorations, etc.

Your membership dues do NOT pay for your Scout’s leaders, assistant leaders or Pack Committee members as they are non-paid volunteers and that is why we strongly encourage parent volunteer and participation in order to help lessen the many tasks that our small number of Pack leaders/committee members have to take on. If you would like to help in any way, please contact the Cubmaster, Assistant Cubmaster(s), any Pack Committee member or your Den Leader for more information!

ALL SCOUTS (renewing) must turn in membership dues, talent/media release form and medical A & B forms annually.

NEW SCOUTS:

2 Ways to Complete the New Scout Application:

You can get a paper application from the New Member Coordinator (NMC)
To complete online, visit the website, https://beascout.scouting.org/

RETURNING SCOUTS:

Complete the Membership Renewal Form (paper form) from NMC or Den Leader

ALL NEW/RETURNING SCOUTS:

Submit your New or Renewing Membership Form
Submit the Talent/Media Release Form (paper form)
1. Get form from NMC or Den Leader
Submit the Medical A & B Forms (Annual Health & Medical Record)
1. Get form from NMC or
2. Visit the website, www.scouting.org/health-and-safety/forms/

PARENTS/LEADERS:

Complete the Youth Protection Training (YPT) every 2 years
If you want to be a leader/assistant leader, you will need to complete the BSA Adult Application which will require a background check
1. Get form from NMC
2. The cost for the background check is covered by BSA registration fees

Bridging to Boy Scouts

As previously stated, the goal of the Webelos

program is to prepare Cub Scouts to succeed as Scouts. As such, and in line with the standard Scout Troop program, our Pack “bridges” the Scouts to their new troop as part of the annual Blue and Gold Banquet on the 3rd Tuesday in February. This is the appropriate time to bring the new Scouts into the Troop, as the Troop program at that time expects incoming Scouts, and can integrate them into the Troop with their peers in time to get them ready for summer camp.

About Advancement

Cub Scout activities are centered around earning badges badges that are specific to each school grade level. This badge represents a rank. Advancement refers to the progress a Cub Scout makes toward their badge of rank. All of the activities for each rank are in the Cub Scout handbooks.

All rank advancement must be turned in to the Den Leader at least one week before a Pack meeting. The leaders must turn in an advancement report to the Advancement Chairman on that date in order to get the awards in time for the Pack Meeting. If your Scout has worked on their advancement, make sure they bring their book (signed by you where applicable) to the meetings. The Den Leader is required to do the final sign-off for all advancement.

If the advancement is not turned at least a week before the Pack meeting, the award cannot be presented to the Scout until the next Pack Meeting, which will certainly be a big disappointment to your Scout.

Your Den Leader will try to let you know what the Den will be doing each week in advance. If you are unable to attend a Den meeting, consider doing the same activity with your Scout on some other night so that they will not feel as though they are dropping behind the other Scouts in the Den.

Cub Scouting is a very family oriented program. As such, responsibility for promoting rank advancement lies with the parents, the Scout, and their family. Although there will be activities organized by the Den and the Pack which count towards rank advancement, most of the activities should be done at home under your guidance. There is no substitute for active family involvement.

The standard to apply when determining if your Scout has accomplished an achievement or elective is simply “did they do their best?”

While that is somewhat subjective, and obviously not the same from child to child, it is the standard used in Cub Scouts. As such, that is why advancement is something to be done under the parent’s guidance, where he/she signs off in the handbook as the “Akela”.

Advancement is a good indicator of how much a Scout is participating in the program

and how successful they have been in learning the new things that the program offers.

Scouting is a family adventure and your assistance and cooperation is essential to your Scout’s success in earning their rank.

occasional lack of interest. This is normal, especially with all of the activities kids are involved with these days, such as sports programs and video games.

Please encourage your Scout and help motivate them to hang in there and earn their advancement. Don't let a sports season end a Scouting career. We realize how important sports and other seasonal or short-term activities are to the Scouts and their families.

Please try to participate as often as you can, even if you have to show up late and in your soccer uniform! And plan to get back into the swing of things as soon as you can. Our leaders will be happy to help your Scout get

caught up with the rest of the den.

If you are concerned about the quality of any aspect of the program or about your Scout's loss of interest in the program, please talk with their Den Leader or the Cubmaster right away. Scouting is the best youth program anywhere, but like anything worthwhile, it takes commitment from everyone involved. You only get out of the program what you are willing to put in. Your child cannot benefit at all from Scouting if they drop Out!

Each Scout has until the last meeting in April to earn their current rank badge. If there are extenuating circumstances as far as your Scout being unable to complete some of the achievements for advancement, please contact the Cubmaster as soon as possible.

Uniforms

The Boy Scouts of America is a uniformed

organization. We encourage you to acquire a

uniform for your Scout at least by the time of the Pack meeting so that they may proudly wear their Bobcat badge and other awards on it.

BSA has many reasons for requiring uniforms. Among them are quick identification of the group, providing a place to display emblems representing hard work by the Scouts, and to foster a sense of brotherhood and pride.

We realize that uniforms can be expensive, so we suggest you start with the shirt and encourage grandparents, aunts, uncles, etc. to purchase Scouting uniform parts, equipment etc. as gifts throughout the year.

Occasionally, the District may sponsor a ‘uniform exchange’ at local malls, where used uniforms, which a Scout has outgrown, can be traded, sold, or purchased at a discount. Your Pack Leaders will inform you of these events as we become aware of them.

Pack 451’s uniform is the official uniform designated by the Boy Scouts of America. An

official uniform (including the BSA shirt, hat

(optional), neckerchief, neckerchief slide, emblems, and so on) is known as a “Class A” uniform (i.e., a dress uniform). Occasionally, it is appropriate that Scouts do not wear their “Class A” uniform), but still be quickly recognizable as Scouts. (For example, while

playing outdoor games or while on a hike). In these cases, Scouts may wear an optional “Class B” uniform consisting of blue jeans or shorts, a printed T-shirt (often with a Scout theme), and their Cub Scout hat. If not otherwise indicated scouts should wear their “Class A uniform.”

The uniforms also sport an assortment of emblems that identify the Scout’s council, pack, rank, and certain accomplishments. Many of these emblems are described on the inside covers of the book for each rank.

BSA requests that Lion, Tiger, Wolf, Bear and Webelos Scouts wear a complete uniform including the official pants (or shorts) and socks.

Lion, Tiger, Wolf, and Bear Cub Scout uniforms consist of the following:

Lions can have either a Lion T-shirt or official Cub Scout Shirt (blue)

• Cub Scout Shirt (blue)

• Cub Scout Pants or Shorts (blue)

• Hat (optional)

• Lion – Lion emblem front

• Tiger Cubs – Orange front

• Wolf – Red front

• Bear – Light Blue front

• Neckerchief

Lion -- yellow
Tiger – orange
Wolf – red
Bear -- blue
Neckerchief Slide

Webelos Scout uniforms consist of:

• Webelos Shirt (blue or tan)

• Webelos Hat (Plaid front – optional)

• Webelos Pants or Shorts (blue or green)

• Webelos Neckerchief and slide

We encourage each boy to wear the complete, official “Class A” uniform, but at least have the shirt, hat, and neckerchief for each meeting.

Webelos Scouts are in transition from Cub Scouts to Boy Scouts. They may also be at an age where they are outgrowing their Cub Scout uniform and need a new one, even though they will bridge to Boy Scouts soon. For this reason, BSA provides the option that Webelos Scouts may wear the blue Cub Scout uniform until they outgrow it. Webelos Scouts

purchasing a new uniform should buy the tan and green Boy Scout uniform.

All Webelos scouts should be wearing the tan and green uniform by the time they earn the Arrow of Light and bridge into a Scout Troop.

Webelos Scouts also wear a set of colorful, braided ribbons called the “Webelos Colors” on their uniform.The activity pins that they earn should be displaced on the Webelos Colors.

Cub Scouts will find that the academic and sports belt loops fit on the blue Scout belt easier than other belts and may wish to include this belt as part of their uniform.

Uniform items that are easily removable (such as hats, neckerchiefs, and neckerchief slides) should be marked permanently with the scout’s initials so that lost items can be returned to their owner.

Pack 451 will provide a neckerchief and slide of the appropriate rank when Scouts join and also when they advance to their new den. If a scout loses these items, it is not the pack’s responsibility to replace them.

Uniforms can be purchased at the Gold Dust Scout Shop at:

Address

4031 Technology Drive, Modesto, CA 95356

Hours of Operation

Monday – Friday: 10:00am to 6:00pm

Saturday: 10:00am to 4:00pm

Sunday: Closed

Contact

Phone: 209-543-9700

Fax: 209-543-7598

Email: GoldDustScoutShop@scouting.org

Facebook: www.facebook.com/GDSS.0531

*Phone orders are accepted and they can have your items to you in 2-3 business days

Books

Owning a copy of the handbook for their rank is important. The book provides the requirements for each activity and a place to record progress. Each Scout is expected to own a copy of the handbook appropriate for their rank and to bring the handbook to each Den meeting. Scouts should write their names in permanent ink on the title page (inside the book) in the space provided for this purpose.

The Pack provides the handbook as part of the registration fees for renewing Scouts. If you lose your handbook, a replacement can be purchased at the Scout Shop.

Pinewood Derby

Once a year, around the end of January or beginning of February, the Pack has a Pinewood Derby race. The Pack provides each Scout with a Pinewood Derby kit at least one month before the Derby. Each Scout (with the help of their parents if needed) designs and builds their car from a block of pine and

wheels included in the kit. Each car must meet very specific rules (including weight and size requirements) and must be built from the official BSA Pinewood Derby kit. The cars are judged for speed in different age groups and for appearance. Guidelines will be provided closer to the event.

The Pack champions go on to compete with all the other Packs in our District Pinewood Derby. The official rules for the Pack 451 Derby are distributed to each Scout with the kit.

If you are interested in assisting with the pinewood derby, please contact the Pack Committee Chair.

Awards

The Pack pays for all awards and presents them to the uniformed Scout at Pack and Den meetings. The Pack does not cover the cost of replacement awards. Additionally, in some cases, a Scout may repeatedly earn an award (for example, belt loops); however only a single award is presented by the pack.

Check your handbook and Scoutbook app for information on various awards your Scout can earn. Not all awards can be worn on the uniform shirt. For information on where these items belong on the shirt, see the Cub Scout and Webelos Scout Inspection sheet at http://www.scouting.org/forms/34282.pdf

Rank patches, unit insignia, and other badges are to be worn on the uniform shirt. If a badge is not shown on the uniform, then it is not appropriate to wear on the shirt. Examples of these patches would include patches from hiking, fundraising, camping, and other outings. These patches can be worn on a red scout vest that can be purchased at the Scout Shop.

Space "Rocket" Derby

Back by popular demand, this activity has been added to annual events. The space derby is a racing event for Cub Scouts which is similar to the pinewood derby. This is a great opportunity for Scouts to build and launch craft rockets.

Religious Emblem Awards

Part of scouting is the idea of “duty to God”. While Scouting makes no preference, selection or distinction in this regard, there is a set of religious emblems for various faiths, available for Scouts to earn to help them in fulfilling their duty to God. For more information see http://www.praypub.org

All scouts who earn a religious emblem as listed at http://www.praypub.org will be recognized and awarded a special BSA youth religious emblem award that can be worn on their uniform, even when they become an adult leader.

Activities

Aside from normal Den activities and occasional field trips, there are a number of activities that are worth mentioning in this parent handbook.

To receive proper credit for all of the activities which your Scout participates in, please make sure that he signs up in advance, checks in with his Den leader, and signs in as appropriate.

Blue & Gold Banquet

Each year the Cub Scouts celebrate the anniversary of the founding of Scouting in the U.S. by having a Blue and Gold Banquet. This is traditionally a supper (either catered or potluck) where the entire family is encouraged to attend. It is usually held on the 3rd Tuesday in February and it takes the place of the Pack Meeting for that month.

If you are interested in assisting with the

banquet, please contact the Pack Committee

Chairman.

Graduation Ceremony

For the 2nd year Webelos (aka Arrow of Light), the final night of being a Cub Scout is at our Blue and Gold Banquet. In addition to a memorable “bridging” ceremony to Boy Scouts for those Scouts who are continuing the scouting adventure, we also present graduation “career arrows” to the Scouts for them to remember their time in Pack 451.

Boy Scouts

When your Scout completes the Cub Scout program in February of their second year as a Webelos Scout, we hope they will continue participating in Scouting and join a Boy Scout Troop. The Webelos den leader and other pack leaders will be delighted to help your Scout connect with a Boy Scout troop.n important part of the Blue and Gold Banquet for 2nd year Webelos is the ceremonial ‘bridging’ from our Cub Scout Pack into a Boy Scout Troop.

Adult Leadership

All Dens must maintain two- deep leadership at all times.

If for some reason a Den is not be able to have two registered leaders present, the Den Leader will have to cancel the meeting or activity. Please do your part to help us provide a quality program by signing up to be an Assistant Den Leader. Our pack is entirely dependent upon volunteers to operate. None of our leaders are paid scouters. Many other packs require a certain level of involvement by the parent(s)/guardian(s) in order for the Scout to participate. Pack 451 may be adopting that policy in the very near future.

Many parents are reluctant to volunteer to be a Cub Scout leader, den leader or assistant den leader, because they have never been in Scouting and are unfamiliar with the program. Remember, no experience is needed!

Many of our current leaders also lacked prior experience with the Scout program, but they volunteered anyhow and now they are having as much fun as the Scouts! BSA provides a number of excellent tools to help you come up to speed as a new leader, including online training, one day training sessions, monthly roundtable meetings, and annual “Pow Wow” or University of Scouting event, etc.

Remember that you have other experienced Den Leaders in our Scouting family to draw upon. In addition, there are many, many ways to volunteer with the Pack other than being a leader. If you have any time to give, please contact the Pack Leadership and we will find a way to use your talents!

Scout Leaders receive no pay for their time but may be reimbursed for actual expenses that are approved in advance and documented by receipts. In addition, registered leaders may be able to claim certain deductions on their taxes, such as mileage. Please

consult your tax specialist for details.

The leadership of the Pack is as follows:

Cubmaster(s) responsible for all the leaders and keeps up-to-date on Den activities. He/She is responsible for the running of the Pack Meeting.

Den Leaders and Webelos Den Leaders work directly with the Scouts at the Den level. They have direct responsibility for the Scouts and their rank advancement.

Pack Committee Chair Responsible for running the Committee Meetings, the overall planning of the Pack activities and

maintaining an open communication between the District, Council and the Church.

Chartered Organization Representative This person is the liaison between the church and the Cub Scout Pack. They are responsible for representing the Pack to the church and relaying information to the Pack Committee.

In addition, the Pack Committee includes a number of parents who arrange outings, create newsletters, plan fundraising activities, handle public relations, put on the Blue and Gold Banquet, coordinate membership track advancement, plan the Pinewood Derby race, maintain the website and social media pages, etc.

Safe Scouting

The Guide to Safe Scouting can be found at

http://www.scouting.org/pubs/gss/. Den Leaders are expected to become familiar with the contents of the Guide and to follow it strictly. Den Leaders having questions related to the interpretation of any safety guidelines or questions related to a planned

activity which they believe could pose an increased risk of harm to Scouts must discuss planned den activities with the Cubmaster prior to the activity. Non-adherence to the Guide to Safe Scouting puts leaders at personal liability risk, and that’s no small matter in this day and age!

BSA Health & Safety

The Guide to Safe Scouting can be found at

Behavior and Discipline

It is important that proper behavior be

demonstrated by Scouts at Den and Pack meetings and all scouting events.

Behavior is a synonym for a word that has fallen on hard times, and that word is discipline. Often times discipline is thought of in a negative form (namely punishment). But the word actually means “training” or “a system of rules governing conduct”.

The first form of discipline, which is the most

important, is self-discipline. Lacking that, the Den Leaders have direct responsibility for maintaining the behavior of the Scouts in their Den. Rather than attempt to enumerate a complete list of “do’s and don’ts”, the following principles apply with regards to expectations on behavior:

• Scouts are expected to act like Scouts. The rest of the world has a reasonably accurate concept of how a scout should act, and your child should have that concept as well.

• A scout’s conduct should never be something that would bring discredit to themselves, their den, pack, or the Boy Scouts of America.

• Fighting / bullying or any form of physical

or non-physical harassment, including

verbal harassment, will not be tolerated.

Please take the time to discuss with your child the importance of not disrupting Den and Pack meetings. It’s not fair to the other Scouts and the leaders for activities and meetings to be interrupted due to behavior issues.

If a Scout becomes a behavior problem that the Den Leader cannot handle, the Cubmaster will be informed and a parent / leader meeting will be held to discuss the problem and possible action. If the problem cannot be resolved to the satisfaction of all concerned, the Scout may be asked to leave the Pack. Please have your Scout "do his best!"

Camping

Scouting is an outdoor-based program. Camping is permitted by Cub Scouts only

in an age-appropriate context. Cub Scouts must have an adult family member with them at all times when camping.

If your Cub Scout wishes to attend only the daytime activities of a Family Campout you must make prior arrangements with another adult to take responsibility for your child if you cannot attend. You will need to fill out a permission slip with all of the necessary emergency information included.

Please do not ask the Den Leader or Cubmaster to take responsibility for your child. It is not possible for the leaders to conduct the program, watch their own children, and be responsible for your child.

All camping is in accordance with BSA policy, as spelled out in the Guide to Safe Scouting, which can be viewed at http://www.scouting.org/pubs/gss/.

Part of this policy includes two-deep leadership. In addition, for pack camping (which is open to all family members) at least one leader must have completed Basic Adult Leader Outdoor Orientation (BALOO). For Webelos den camping (which is open to just Webelos Scouts and parents) at least one leader must have completed Introduction to Outdoor Webelos Leader Skills (IOWLS).

BSA has specific rules and prohibitions with respect to camping, which will be reviewed by your leader prior to each event.

Our Council offers a weeklong, summer day camp that is highly recommended. Besides having a lot of fun, your Scout will be able to complete requirements for some of the achievements needed for their next rank advancement. You’ll receive more information on the day camp from your Scout

Leaders in the spring.

Parent Responsibilities

Pack 451 simply cannot be successful without your involvement. As a Cub Scout parent, we hope you will recognize and take seriously the following responsibilities:

• Understand the requirements for your child’s rank advancement; assist them in fulfilling these requirements; help keep the record of their achievements (in their Scout book) accurate and up to date and make sure that they bring their book to each Den meeting.

• Assure that your Scout has a “Class A”

uniform and that they dresses appropriately for all Scout functions.

• Notify your child’s Den leader whenever your child participates in a Scout activity that is not sponsored by the Pack (for example, Cub Scout Day Camp), so that they may receive proper credit.

• Notify your child’s Den leader whenever your child will be absent or late for a meeting.

• Volunteer to be a Den Leader, Assistant Den Leader, Den Parent, Assistant Cubmaster, Cubmaster, or member of the Pack Committee. Or volunteer time to help organize and execute one or more specific Scout activities throughout the year (such as banquets, fundraisers, derby races, field trips, etc).

• Support the Pack’s financial goals by understanding the Pack budget and participating in fundraising activities. If personal commitments prevent you from sharing your time with the Pack, consider making a monetary donation.

• Complete the BSA Youth Protection Training, available online at http://www.myscouting.org within 30 days of your child joining the pack. Once you have completed this training, be sure to notify the pack membership chair via email a picture or pdf of your completed certificate at

TurlockPack451+YPT@gmail.com

• Complete parts A and B of the BSA medical form for EVERY family member (scout, parent, siblings) that will be participating in any of our outings. Turn this and a copy of your insurance card into the membership chair. This form can be found at

http://www.scouting.org/filestore/HealthSafety/pdf/parts_ab.pdf

District Family Camping Weekend

Attendance by scouting families is encouraged at events held by our district and council such as Camporees and Family Camping Weekend.

At most of these events, the Scouts have a chance to work on their advancements and enjoy the company of scouts from other packs.

Pack Family Campout

Pack 451 traditionally ends the regular Scout year in May/June with a den promotion ceremony. As scheduling, weather, and facilities allow this may be combined with an opportunity to go camping.

Fall Family Campout

The Pack will arrange to have a one or two night campout at a local campground in the fall. Please read the BSA Health and Safety Camping guidelines in the previous section.

Summer Activities

The Pack will schedule activities during the summer months. All summer activities will be publicized using email, the Pack website, Facebook and newsletter.

Scouts who attend at least one Pack activity per month during the months of June, July,

and August can earn a special ‘summertime activity’ award.

Aquatic Activities

All aquatic activities must be supervised by trained, qualified adults while strictly following the BSA's Safe Swim Defense Plan for swimming activities and Safety Afloat Plan for boating. There are no exceptions. See national BSA Health and Safety standards for details. Contact the Cubmaster before planning any den meetings that involve aquatic activities.

Drug, Alcohol & Tobacco Use

Illegal drugs and alcohol are not allowed at any Scouting activity and persons under the influence of drugs or alcohol are not allowed to participate or be present at any Scouting functions. Any violation of this rule will result in immediate dismissal from the

event and possible intervention by law enforcement agents.

Scouting provides a tobacco-free environment for the Scouts and smoking/vaping is not allowed in the presence of the Scouts. If you must smoke, vape or use tobacco products, please do so outside and out-of-site of the Scouts and always remember to keep the area free of cigarette butts and trash.

Knives & Firearms

No fixed-blade sheath knives are allowed on any Scout activity. A Cub Scout can only carry a pocket knife once they have learned the safety rules for using a knife and earned their Whittlin' Chip card in the Bear Den or Webelos Den. Knives can then only be used under direct adult supervision.

If a Scout is found handling their knife

improperly, it will be taken away from them and given to the parent/guardian. Each time this happens, a corner of the Whittlin’ Chip card is to be snipped off. If all corners are removed, the Scout is no longer allowed this privilege. In addition, any adult who sees a Scout with a knife can ask them to produce their Whittlin’ Chip. If they cannot do so, the knife will be taken away from them and given to their parent/guardian.

Archery equipment, air rifles and B-B guns are not allowed in the Cub Scout program except under stringent supervision by a trained adult on a safe firing range at a council or district-sponsored event. Pistols

are not allowed. Firearms are not allowed except under certain demonstration conditions and can only be handled by qualified adults. Use of firearms by Cub Scouts is not allowed. See national BSA Health and Safety standards for details. Contact the Cubmaster before planning any den meetings that involve firearms. Except for police officers in their jurisdiction, there are to be no firearms at any of our activities.

Liability Insurance

Part of every Scout's fees in Greater Yosemite Council pays for accident insurance that supplements your family's accident insurance policy to help cover the medical expenses should your Scout become injured while participating in a Scouting activity.

If you are transporting other Scouts to an activity, you must provide the Pack with information regarding your vehicle, your driver’s license, and your insurance coverage.

This is necessary in order for us to get a Local or National Tour Permit, without which our BSA accident and liability insurance will not cover us. Your liability coverage only covers the Scouts if they are injured while being transported by you to or from the activity, not for any injury occurring while at the event

destination. All local and state traffic laws must be followed at all times, and all passengers in any vehicle must wear a properly fitted seat belt while the vehicle is in motion. Riding in the back of pickup trucks, flatbed trucks, or trailers is not allowed. To assist in the planning of activities that require the transportation of Scouts, the Pack may attempt to build a list of volunteer drivers early in the year and will collect your driver information at that time. Then, as you volunteer to drive to events throughout the Scout year, we’ll have all of the information that we need to file the Tour Permit paperwork.

Financial Records

The cost of running a Cub Scout Pack such as ours exceeds $8,000 per year. This includes payments that the Pack must make to the BSA national office and local Council, den and pack supplies, awards, Pinewood derby expenses, Banquet expenses, and much more. A portion of this money comes from the registration fee that each Scout pays. A significant portion comes from fund raising activities, namely the annual Popcorn sale.

Pack 451 will provide access to detailed financial records at any time and hopes that each parent will have at least a high-level awareness of the Pack finances. The treasurer reports all income and expenses at Pack Committee meetings, and summaries of the Pack’s finances will be reported regularly. A Pack budget is updated at least once a year. Parents are encouraged to participate in planning sessions related to the Pack finances. Any questions regarding the pack finances may be directed to the treasurer or pack committee chairman.

Communication

In this busy society we live in, communication is at the heart of every successful organization. The same is true for Cub Scouts. We want to avoid using meetings for the purpose of communicating information. The pack/den meetings are for fun, not announcements.

Our pack uses 2 primary forms of

communication:

• Email

• Scoutbook

• Facebook Group Page

The use of phone calls/texts exists as well, but is rare and impractical for a pack of our size.

Website, Media Coverage, Privacy Issues (Talent Media Release)

IWe will occasionally post photos of pack/den activities on our website or social media. It is also possible that local newspapers and television stations may provide coverage of our activities and your child’s name and photograph may appear in a publication or TV. If you object to having your child appear on the website or in the media, please let

our Pack Leaders know as soon as possible.

For maximum protection of your child, it is our policy that:

• No Cub Scout will be identified on the

website by their full name. Scouts will be referred to by initials, such as “B. M.”

• No addresses or phone numbers will be posted on the website, except for Adult Leaders who have consented.

If you determine that any of these policies have been violated or if you have concerns about the website or privacy issues, please contact a Scout Leader in our Pack immediately

Email

The primary communication mechanism of the pack is via email. If you are unsure if you are on the email list, please contact the

Cubmaster immediately.

It is essential that you check your email, and if a response is requested, to do so in a timely fashion. If nothing else, it is respectful to the leaders who are communicating. Not responding only creates additional work for someone.

If for some reason email does not work out for you, contact the Cubmaster so that an alternate arrangement can be made.

Pack 451 Website

www.pack451.org

Pack 451 Email/Contact Number

451CubScouts@gmail.com

209-410-8646

Pack 451 Facebook Page (public)

www.facebook.com/pack451turlock/

Pack 451 Facebook Group (private)

www.facebook.com/groups/560600317673593/

Other Websites/Links/Resources

www.scoutbook.com (advancement tracking tool)

www.scouting.org (info, resources)

My.scouting.org (info, training, YPT, resources)

www.yosemitescouting.org (Council website)

Scoutingwire.org (resources)

Fun Apps for Scouts!

Boys Life Magazine

Knots 3D

Star Walk 2

First Aid by American Red Cross

Scouting Magazine

Weather Underground

Dutch Oven Helper Lite

Scoutbook

Cub Scout Sign

Cub Scouts learn the “Scout Sign” very early. (With your right hand facing away from you, extend your index and middle fingers to form a ‘V’ and curl the remaining fingers into the palm of the hand.) The Scout Sign has a

very important use during Den and Pack meetings. Whenever a Leader puts the Scout Sign up, the Scouts, parents, and other Leaders are expected to become quiet and also put the ‘sign up’. This allows the

Leaders to bring a room to order very quickly, without having to say a word. Please make sure that your child understands how to behave when the ‘sign’s up’.

Cub Scout Motto

“Do Your Best”

Cub Scout Salute

The Cub Scout salute is made by joining the index and middle fingers of the right hand (holding the other fingers with the thumb) and touching them to the cap visor or forehead above the right eyebrow. The hand is held the same as for the Cub Scout sign, except the index and middle fingers are together.

The salute is used to salute the flag when in uniform, otherwise hold your right hand over your heart.

It can also be used when greeting other Scouts.

Cub Scout Handshake

Using your right hand, place your first two fingers along the inside of the other Scout’s wrist. This means that you help and that you obey the Scout Law.

Cub Scout Oath

Cub Scout Law

Pack 451 Leader Contact Information

Chartered Organization:

First United Methodist Church

Chartered Organization Representative:

David Estep

Cubmaster:

Edvin Eshagh

edvin.eshagh@gmail.com

209-505-1382

Assistant Cubmaster:

Vacant

Lions Den 4 Leader(s):

Michele Ojeda-White

Fabiola Matias

Tigers Den 6 Leader(s):

Jack Newell

Matt Davis

Wolves Den 5 Leader(s):

Janell Pearson-Konefat

Emmanuel Perez

Bears Den 5 Leader(s):

Sarah Lewis

Shannon Jacobs

Webelos I Den 3 Leader(s):

Erin Riley

Reina Arroyo

Sandra Perez

Webelos II Arrow of Light Den 2 Leader(s):

Kevin Caine

Jesus Segura

Shenique Teixeira

Pack Committee -

Pack Committee Chair:

Stephen Jacobs

Secretary:

Vacant

Treasurer:

Jay Ruiz

New Member Coordinator/Registration:

Janell Konefat

Quartermaster:

Kevin Caine

Outdoor/Activities Chair:

Vacant

Advancement Chair:

Janell Pearson-Konefat

Events Committee Chair:

Janell Pearson-Konefat

Popcorn Kernel:

Michelle Khalar

Fundraising Chair:

Vacant

Community Service Chair:

Vacant

Other Committee Members:

Frequently Asked Questions

Pack 451 Specific FAQ’s
General Cub Scout/Scouting FAQ’s
1. For more general questions, please visit the BSA FAQ Page: www.scouting.org/about/faq/

JOINING CUB SCOUTING

How do I sign my child up for Cub Scouts?
How can I become an adult volunteer or leader?
1. Express your interest to the pack leaders—the committee chair, Cubmaster, chartered organization representative, or members of the pack committee. While there’s no guarantee that a specific role or position will be available, there is usually some way in which you can contribute. Most packs are glad for any offer of help as all pack leaders are volunteers and the more help they have, the less each person has to take on. There are many single-instance volunteer opportunities such as popcorn chair or pinewood derby chair.
Must I be a U.S. citizen to join Cub Scouting?
1. Citizenship is not required of youth or adult members. If you live outside the U.S. and are not a U.S. citizen, it may be more beneficial to join the Scouting association in your own nation. The World Organization of the Scout Movement provides contact information for all national Scouting organizations on its website at www.scout.org.
How old (or young) can a child be to join Cub Scouting?
1. Cub Scouting is for boys in the first through fifth grades, or 7 to 10 years of age. Boys who are older than 10, or who have completed the fifth grade, can no longer join Cub Scouting, but they may be eligible to join the Boy Scouting or Venturing program depending on their age and grade level.

THE CUB SCOUT PROGRAM

Are Cub Scouts the same as Boy Scouts?
1. No. Cub Scouting is a program of the Boy Scouts of America—so in that sense, Cub Scouts and Boy Scouts are both members of the same organization. However, they are entirely different programs: Cub Scouting is a family-oriented program designed specifically to address the needs of younger Scouts and requires more adult/parent/guardian involvement. The difference between Cub Scouts and Boy Scouts encompasses critical categories like unit structure, leadership, parental involvement, advancement and camping. They do share the same values, Scout Oath and Scout Law.
How often do Cub Scouts meet?
1. Cub Scouts meet in their dens once each week, and a pack meeting is held for all Cub Scouts and their families once a month. Beyond that, it depends on the den and pack. A den may hold a special activity, such as a service project or visit to a local museum, in place of one of the weekly meetings or in addition to the weekly meetings. Likewise, a pack may conduct a special event such as a blue and gold banquet as an additional event, rather than a substitute for its monthly pack meeting.
May parents attend den meetings?
1. Cub Scout den meetings are intended to be an activity for the individual Scouts. They are not a family activity, and the presence of parents can be a distraction. However, parental involvement is encouraged, and all meetings should be open to your participation. If you would like to be present at a den meeting, ask the den leader in advance so that the leader can plan a way for you to observe or participate in an unobtrusive manner, or talk to the pack leaders on becoming more involved.

UNIFORMS AND SUPPLIES

What supplies/equipment are needed to participate?
1. At minimum, each child in Cub Scouting will need a uniform and a handbook. Each year, the handbook changes, as does the cap and neckerchief, but other uniform parts remain the same for at least the first three years. When a Scout enters a Webelos den, they may need to obtain a new uniform if the parents in the den opt for the khaki-and-olive uniform. Additional supplies and equipment may be needed for certain activities such as camping trips or field days. What equipment is needed, as well as whether it will be provided by the unit, will vary from pack to pack. Den and pack leaders should provide parents with information about any supplies that will be required at the beginning of each program year.
Where can I purchase BSA literature, uniforms and other program materials?
1. Our uniforms, literature, and other Scouting merchandise is available at your local council, Scout Shops, and other licensed distributors.
2. Our local store is the Gold Dust Scout Shop located at 4031 Technology Drive in Modesto, CA. Their contact number is 209-543-9700 and email is GoldDustScoutShop@scouting.org.

Their website is: https://www.yosemitescouting.org/about-us/gold-dust-scout-shop/51757

OR visit the Supply Group website at www.scoutstuff.org to find a list of distributors in your area. If there aren’t any suppliers near you, you can order directly from the Supply Group by telephone.

How can I save money on the cost of uniforms and equipment?
1. The Cub Scout pack may provide assistance to families. Some packs operate a uniform exchange or uniform bank, or they may hold fundraisers to enable the boys to earn their uniforms. Also, some packs will award boys rank-specific uniform components (hat and neckerchief) and/or the program books that the Cub Scout needs each year—so parents should inquire as to what the pack provides before purchasing the items themselves.

ADVANCEMENT AND AWARDS

If a child joins a Bear den, do they have to go back and earn the Tiger Cub and Wolf badges?
1. No. In the Cub Scout program, all Scouts in a den work toward the same badge. If a child joins as a 9-year-old (third grade), they must earn the Bobcat badge (all Scouts in Cub Scouting earn this badge), and then they will begin working on the Bear badge with their fellow Cub Scouts. They are not required to have earned the Tiger Cub or Wolf badges. Since those badges are for younger Scouts (first grade or age 7 and second grade or age 8), the requirements for those badges are below a third grade or 9-year-old’s current level of ability, so “going back” to pick up those badges is not permitted.
If a Scout completes the Wolf badge early, can they begin working on the Bear badge?
1. No. In the Cub Scout program, all Scouts in a den work toward a badge that is geared to their level of development. If the Wolf badge is completed before the end of the program year, a Scout may work on electives to earn Arrow Points, or Academic and Sports belt loops and pins, Nova awards, or the religious emblem of their faith. They may not begin working on the requirements for the Bear badge. Their work on the Bear badge will begin the next program year, when they graduate into a Bear den.
When a Cub Scout earns the Arrow of Light, can they immediately join a Boy Scout Troop?
1. Boy Scouting is available to Scouts who have earned the Arrow of Light and are at least 10 years old. So a Webelos Scout who has earned the Arrow of Light is eligible to join a troop immediately (provided they are at least 10 years old). A Scout can join a Boy Scout troop if they are 11 years old whether they have earned the Arrow of Light or not. However, many packs coordinate with a local Boy Scout troop to facilitate the transition from Cub Scouting to Boy Scouting. In these instances, it is better for the child, their family, and both units if all Webelos Scouts make the transition together, in a coordinated fashion, rather than having each Scout leave the pack as soon as they are eligible.

Page updated

Report abuse