Welcome to Troop 2! We are pleased to have you with us and hope you will enjoy many years of Scouting with Troop 2.
Our Troop is the oldest in Old Colony Council, and one of the oldest in the United States. We are celebrating our 100th
anniversary in 2011.
Troop 2 meets
on Monday nights from 7:30 until 9 PM. Full uniforms are required at most meetings during the school year. Once per month
we meet at the First Church, Weymouth Heights for a gym night. Drum corps practice is conducted before every meeting at 7
PM.
A monthly newsletter is distributed at the first meeting of each month, and contains all planned events.
The most updated information is found on our website however at www.troop2weymouth.com. Our troop committee meets monthly to plan events and discuss advancement, and we encourage
your parents to join our troop committee to help with this process.
Please keep in mind - Parents must be registered with the troop to participate in
scouting events such as campouts. Boys cannot attend campouts or summer camp until they are registered with the troop
and have filed medical forms with the troop. If you have any questions please see Mr. Keenan for clarification and enrollment
forms.
Our website
also includes driving directions to Valley Pines and to Cliff Island, and all materials included in this packet.
Our goal is to help and guide you and your son along the trail to Eagle, and it is our pleasure to provide you
both with all the assistance and support we can along the way. If you or your parents have
any questions, please connect with our Scoutmaster, Charlie Clancy, or with any of the Assistant Scoutmasters (Jim Kelly,
Brian Chase, Doug McCallum, or Roger Phillips) or our Troop Committee Chairman Glenn Warren.
Who’s Who in Troop 2Scout
Leaders
| Charlie Clancy | Scoutmaster |
| Brian Chase | Assistant Scoutmaster – Drum Corps |
| Jim Kelly | Assistant
Scoutmaster – Waterfront/Watercraft |
| Doug McCallum | Assistant Scoutmaster – Waterfront |
| Roger Phillips | Assistant Scoutmaster – Valley Pines |
| Joe Keenan | Troop Treasurer – Cans & Bottles |
| Kathy Walsh | Advancement Coordinator |
| Glen Warren | Troop Committee Chairman |
| Brian Stronach | Weymouth Heights
Club President |
| David Chase | Weymouth Heights Club Treasurer/Property
Manager |
| Ron Evans | Eagle Scout Coordinator |
| Shane Phillips | Senior Patrol Leader |
| Erik Hicks | Assistant Senior Patrol Leader |
| Bill Mullen | Assistant Senior Patrol Leader/Drum Corps Leader |
| Brian Clancy | Assistant Senior Patrol Leader |
Phone Numbers Weymouth Heights Clubhouse – 781-331-6006
Scoutmaster Charlie Clancy – 781-217-8142
Website contact – Brian Chase –
781-340-1706 or 617-413-4437
Troop 2, Weymouth MAScout Code of Conduct
AS A MEMBER OF TROOP 2, WEYMOUTH, I AGREE TO THE FOLLOWING:
1. I will
behave in accordance with the Scout Law and Oath. A Scout is trustworthy, loyal, helpful, friendly, courteous, kind, obedient,
cheerful, thrifty, brave, clean and reverent.
2. When instructed /directed by an adult or junior leader to do or not do something, I will follow the instructions/directives
given to me.
3. I will consider the feelings of other scouts and adults and not do anything either physically or verbally,
that will make them feel uncomfortable or put them in a situation in which they feel threatened.
4. I will
not be disruptive and will show the attention and respect that is expected of me.
5. I will bring to the attention of an adult leader or Senior Patrol Leader any situation
that I am not comfortable with and not take matters into my own hands.
6. I will not do anything that causes danger to myself or others.
7. I will
respect the property of others and not steal or damage property that does not belong to me.I understand that if I do not follow the rules outlined above that a call will be placed to my parents
and that my parents will have to immediately remove me from the event I am part of. A meeting will then take place with my
parents in attendance in order to discuss the future behavior on my part.
Scout/Parent agreement to Code of Conduct:
Scout _________________________________
Parent
_________________________________
Troop 2, Weymouth MA Parents Guide
- Parental Role & Expectations
- Parents are encouraged to participate in all aspects of scouting, including weekly meetings, activities, and
advancement.
- Parents are welcome to attend any Troop Committee Meeting, and
can join the Troop Committee if they are interested.
- Program Guidelines
- The purpose of our scouting program is to prepare young men for adult life by teaching leadership
and decision making skills.
- To that end we are a troop run by the scouts,
with direction from the adult leaders (Scoutmaster and Assistant Scoutmaster) and leadership from the Senior Patrol.
- Decision making and management of activities is driven by the Senior Patrol.
- Advancement
- Advancement is based on specific requirements found in the scout handbook, including time in rank,
certain merit badges, and skills.
- Advancement is coordinated by a group of adult
leaders.
- Merit Badge and skill coordination is the responsibility of the
scout and merit badge counselor. Classes are offered on a regular basis, and at any time a scout can receive a detailed update
of their progress.
- Additional Information
- We need
parents to help the scouts be successful. Active participation in your son’s activities, volunteerism, and contributions
of time and energy are crucial to assure your son’s success.
- If you
have any questions or concerns about the program or any activities, please bring them to the scoutmaster, assistant scoutmasters
or a member of the troop committee.
- Please encourage your son to bring any concerns
he may have to the scoutmaster, assistant scoutmasters, or a member of the troop committee, and to work with his patrol leader
and the senior patrol as well.
- During meetings and events parents must defer
to the scout leadership, including the senior patrol and scoutmasters. This assures a standard, consistent message to the
scouts.
Mentoring Program is designed to foster rank advancement and camaraderie among the scouts. The process flows from the top rank scouts
down to the newest scouts. Once per week the higher ranking scout is responsible to be an assistant to the lower ranking scout, guiding
them and checking in on a regular basis to assure they’re on track. The lower ranking scout is accountable to himself to stay on track, ask for help, and direction
where needed. Ultimately
it is the scout who is responsible for his own advancement. The higher ranking scout is serving as a role model and as a point
of reference only. Examples
include situations where a younger scout needs to know who to contact, what badge to get next, or how to go about preparing
for a campout or other event. This program is a significant opportunity for growth for all scouts in the troop, and will assure we’re
keeping track of the scouts as the advance. Included in this program is an informal attendance check – by contacting the scout on a
weekly basis we can determine if they are having problems making it to meetings, if they are unable to continue with scouting,
or if there are personal situations that are impeding progress. If you have any questions, please see Shane or a member of the senior patrol, Mr Clancy, Mr Kelley,
Mr Chase or Mr Warren.
Campouts Monthly campouts are held at Valley Pines, a property owned and managed by the Weymouth Heights
Club on behalf and for the express use of the scouts of Troop 2 and their guests.
Our campground in Norwell, located at 505 Grove Street, includes a
cabin, outhouse, fire circle, and flagpole.
This is where we have weekend campouts.
Weekend campouts typically begin on Saturday morning at 10 AM or so, and end early Sunday morning
around 8 AM - 9 AM. Please pick up your boy promptly in the morning on Sunday so we can all go home and have a SHOWER!
Be sure to bring weather appropriate clothing, food, and water (enough for the weekend) as well as a sleeping
bag, and a pad, aflashlight, and good outdoor shoes.
We will supply tents, although you're welcome to bring your own. There is also a cabin for sleeping when the weather doesn’t
cooperate.
Cooking
is on an OPEN FIRE - so be sure to bring a pot, eating utensils, a spatula, an oven mitt, etc. Food you cook should
be easy to prepare on an open flame, easy to eat, and any rubbish should be packed out. No fireworks,
matches, or electronics (radios - personal CD players are ok) are permitted.
large
knives, et. Common sense rules.
Cell phones are discouraged on campouts. They are a distraction and
are not necessary, as we have several phones available for emergency purposes. If your son chooses to bring
his phone on the campout he must turn it over to the scoutmaster in charge, who will hold the phone for him. If you need to
reach your son, please either conduct the adult leader, or pre-arrange a check in time, at which time your son will be given
his phone.
What do you need to camp
· Weather appropriate clothing including boots, hat, coat, gloves, etc
· Cooking is on a open flame – use common sense, bring a pot holder, and long spatula, cooking
pots that are sturdy, eating utensils and cleaning supplies to wash up.
·
Bring your own food – you can bring snacks, a sandwich
for supper, etc – up to you.
·
Bring your own bottled water
·
Bring a warm sleeping bag, and a pad
·
Bring a flashlight
· Bring a football, or a Frisbee, or other outdoor toy if you wish
Note – Uniforms are never required when we camp.
Driving directions are available on the website (www.troop2weymouth.com)
Sleeping arrangements at all overnight events are adults separated from the children.
At Valley Pines, parents and members
of the troop over 18 are not permitted to tent in the area near the campfire, which is reserved for scouts. Camping for adults
is limited to the cabin and tents set up in that general area.
Sleeping Arrangements
- Scouts sleep at the campfire area, either under the stars
or in tents.
- Adults sleep either in the cabin or next to
the cabin.
- No adults are permitted to sleep in the campfire area
with the scouts.
- All sleeping is as follows
No sleeping in or under cars, in truck beds, etc. All participants must arrive before
DUSK – there is no driving permitted past the final turnoff after dark. If you arrive after dark please leave your vehicle
at the gate and walk in. If you arrive at dusk you can drive as far as the top of the road and park there. No
scouts are to leave the premises without permission.
Please do not bring fast food (Burger King, McDonalds, etc) –
this is a campout – you either bring a sandwich or cook your food.
Can and bottle redemption The bottle and can program is our primary source of funding for Troop activities and for purchase
of equipment. Scouts
receive money for each redeemable can or bottle they bring in, and are encouraged to bring as many as possible, reaching out
to family and neighbors to increase their donations. Scouts must note the number of returnables they bring
in on the chart at each meeting for tracking purposes. Matching funds are paid out twice per year (summer camp and end of year) and scouts are welcome
to donate those funds back to the troop or to use them for their own purposes. Depository boxes are also available at several
locations throughout East and North Weymouth. Sorting and processing is done on Mondays and on Thursdays, and we typically bring a load every
two weeks to the redemption center. Changes made in 2008 assure that 5 cents from every can or bottle brought in by the scouts
is received by the troop, and that 100% of the funds raised are used to support activities and equipment. No participants
draw a salary - this is an all volunteer program for the benefit of the scouts and the sponsoring organization. Please keep in mind - the Weymouth Heights Club is a nonprofit organization that sponsors our troop - as a nonprofit
we can accept your charitable donations. This can include donations of money, time, as well as material goods such as old uniforms, camping
equipment, small boats, canoes, kayaks, kitchen goods and paper products etc. Your gift may be tax deductible. Check at work to see if your company offers corporate matching donations or
other incentives for volunteer work. Please contact the WHC Treasurer or President for details and if you need it, copies of the nonprofit
status, etc.
Troop 2 Drum Corps
Every
scout is welcome to participate in the troop drum corps. Practice
before every clubhouse meeting at 7 PM, and every Sunday from 6:30 - 7:30 PM at the clubhouse (except holidays and the second
Sunday of the month when we have Troop Committee meetings in the hall).
The Million Dollar Question is How
do I get a drum patch? - Well, first you have to complete all pieces successfully. Testing is done on Sunday nights.
Then you have to complete a random sample test of 4 pieces called by the drum leader. Then you get your patch. It's very
simple, but it takes dedication, practice and determination.
Why
carry a flag that snaps and flaps in the wind, when you can look sharp banging a drum! Come to practice and give it a
try!
If you have any questions about the drum corps, please connect Mr. Chase at a Monday meeting, or
come down to the clubhouse on a Sunday night.
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Campout and meeting Cellphone
policy Cellphones
are discouraged at meetings and on overnight campouts and at Cliff Island. In outdoor cases the following rules apply.
· Cellphones must be placed in a Ziploc bag with the scouts name and contact information
· Cellphones will be stored in a central location (waterproof box)
· Cellphones can be used between 5 PM and 7 PM (incoming and outgoing calls) and between 8 AM and
9 AM.
·
In an emergency situation please contact the following members
of the troop to reach your son.
·
If your son contacts you unexpectedly to pick him up from a campout,
please contact us immediately so we can confirm the necessity and coordinate with you.
· At any time, any scout can access their phones, provided they contact an adult member of the troop.
These rules
are similar to the rules your son is familiar with from school, and are designed to assure your son’s safety and attention.
At weekly troop meetings cellphones should be set to vibrate or should be turned off to prevent distractions.
Equipment
policy Equipment
(stoves, tents, watercraft, etc) are the property of the Weymouth Heights Club, and are for the exclusive use of the troop. If you need to use equipment for a troop
sponsored event, please coordinate with David Chase. Similarly the campground at Valley Pines and the Weymouth Heights Club and its detached buildings
and storage areas are the property and responsibility of the WHC. If you desire to use these properties please coordinate
with David Chase.
Troop
2 Merit Badge Process
There are two types of merit badges
– those that are Eagle Required, and those that are not. All merit badges require paperwork, which can be hand written or typed. All merit badges must include a coversheet
with the scouts name, merit badge title, and date. Merit badges are reviewed by a counselor, who may be an adult or an older scout. Signoff is required
before passing the badge work in. All requirements must be completed. Presentation of merit badges is at the end of a meeting, usually within a week of your paperwork,
or at our Eagle Banquet or other events. Badges should be sewn onto your sash as soon as possible. Sashes are worn at all formal events
(Eagle Banquet, Ham & Bean Dinner, etc)
Summer Camp Policy – Watercraft 1. Motorboat use is limited to scouts
who have the Motorboating merit badge. Before a scout is permitted to use a motorboat an operator test
will be administered by the Motorboating counselor to assure proper use of the watercraft. If the scout is observed operating
inappropriately they will be beached for the duration of camp. Motorboat use is at the discretion and direction of the Waterfront
Director – Watercraft (Doug Mccallum) 2. Motorboats are reserved for emergency purposes and for operational use (ferrying passengers,
injured scouts, trash detail, and grocery runs) and should not be used for recreational joy riding. If
you need to use a motorboat you must first check with the Waterfront Director – Watercraft (Doug Mccallum) and must
be sure to move your buddy tag to the “out” position. 3. Adults - If you need a ride to the mainland, please coordinate with the Waterfront Director
– Watercraft (Doug Mccallum), or with the troop leadership to assure we’re aware of the location and disposition
of the powered watercraft. Please do not take boats for rides to the mainland without first checking with us. Scouts are available
to provide a ride and will return with the boat immediately. 4. Gas must be added by a qualified adult – please check with Doug, and he will direct you
to the proper person to fuel the watercraft. Similarly, motors must be stored properly for the evening, again under the supervision
of the Waterfront Director – Watercraft (Doug Mccallum) Personal Watercraft at Cliff Island Personal powered watercraft (includes
outboards, jetskis, etc) are not permitted at Scout Camp Personal watercraft – nonpowered (kayaks, canoes) –
limited to Star scouts and above with swimming and lifesaving merit badges, and canoeing merit badge. An operators test will
be administered consisting of proper entry, exit and operation of the watercraft before use is permitted. If the scout is
observed operating inappropriately the watercraft will be beached for the remainder of the duration of camp. Use is at the
discretion and direction of the Waterfront Director – Watercraft (Doug Mccallum) Personal watercraft – adults – You
are welcome to bring personal watercraft to camp, however you must coordinate with the Waterfront Director
– Watercraft (Doug Mccallum) and troop leadership before arriving at the island. You are subject to all rules and regulations
in the state of New Hampshire. Our docking system is reserved for troop watercraft first, and your watercraft may need to be moored for the
week. Operator licensing and registration is your responsibility. Use of your watercraft is limited to you and designated
drivers only. Scout use of your equipment is at the discretion and direction of the Waterfront Director – Watercraft
(Doug Mccallum) and troop leadership.
Code of Conduct No hazing. No intimidation or bullying. What does this mean? It means you don’t make another scout
feel frightened or insecure. In this troop we DO NOT support hazing of any kind. You will not physically harm another boy, and will not engage
in activities such as tipping over cots, moving or dumping footlockers, or moving or otherwise tampering with personal property.
You will not physically harm another scout, and will not use foul or abusive language. At night, Lights out means lights out – it doesn’t
mean playtime. Go to bed. Keep in mind - If you choose to engage in hazing, you are making a choice that will definitely result in expulsion
from camp and possibly from the troop – it’s that simple, and that serious.
Summer Camp at Cliff Island
Sleeping arrangements.
·
Cliff – Eagle scouts under 18 ONLY.
·
Mid point of island below cliffs – Star and Life scouts,
SPL
· Kitchen to midpoint – new scouts (first year)
·
Canoe rock to beach – Men’s tents
·
Canoe rock to kitchen – Men’s tents
·
Kitchen to beach – Men’s tents
·
Outhouse to right side kitchen – Men’s tents
·
Beach – off limits to tents.
·
Valley – off limits to tents.
All persons over age 18 are ADULTS – you are subject to all adult rules of conduct.
Cliff Island kitchen
policy Meals are served as follows
7:00 – 8:00 – Breakfast
12:00 – 1:00 – Lunch
5:00
– 6:00 - Dinner
Reminders
- Be on time for
the meals, which are first come, first served. KP gets you first in line, since you should be finished first to start cleanup.
- If you arrive after the kitchen is closed, an alternative
meal is available, typically dry cereal in the morning, and peanut butter and jelly at the other meals.
- Adults (over 18) eat LAST, at the end of the line, after
the scouts.
- There are no rank lines, no special privileges, and no cutting in line.
- Visitors and special guests eat first.
Kitchen Crew Our kitchen program consists of a Kitchen Coordinator – Jim Lacoste – and designated
Meal Captains – Nick Osario and Roger Philips. The Meal Captains are responsible for maintaining their kitchen staff. If you are not on staff
for that meal, you should not be inside the kitchen. Kitchen staff also includes a KP Manager, responsible for organizing and managing the cleanup
efforts, an inventory manager responsible for the disposition of the kitchen equipment, and a water manager, responsible for
the filtration system and pumps. Kitchen Coordinator is also responsible for the inventory of foodstuffs, and for gathering and providing the
daily shopping lists for our off island food crew, which consists of John Schneider, Scott Wallace, and others.
Leaving the island early
If you are under 18 – parental notification
is required – if you are leaving early we need a written note and a conversation with a parent.
If
you are over 18 – please be sure to let the camp management know you are leaving. Adults are expected to work at camp, supporting
the operations, teaching merit badges, and working with scouts on achievements. It’s a working vacation, and you are
expected to pitch in.
Note - These same rules apply for campouts
at Valley Pines and other scout events
General info
Footwear – no open toed shoes (flip flops, sandals) are
permitted in kitchen or on shore – you can wear sandals as water shoes only. Closed toed sneakers or water shoes (crocs)
are permissible in the kitchen and other areas of camp. This is a safety measure to prevent foot injuries. Proper footwear for camp
includes water shoes, sneakers, and hiking boots. Dry clothes – all scouts must pack a dry set of clothes
(top and bottom) and long pants/jacket or sweatshirt, old sneakers, and a towel, in a labeled plastic bag. This dry set will
be retained in case of severe rain. Raingear – ponchos are nice, but full rain gear (raincoat,
and even pants) are better. Warm clothes – heavy sweatshirts don’t dry well
– lightweight sweatpants do, as do windbreakers and other lighter coats. At least two sets are suggested as nights can
drop to 60 degrees and wind can drop temps further. Cots – no scout is permitted to sleep on the ground.
A sturdy cot, summer weight sleeping bag, folding chair, a locking footlocker, and at least 30 feet of strong rope (clothesline)
are required. Note – Uniforms are never required when we camp.
