Troop 174 Paradise Hills Boy Scouts of America Sponsored by The Paradise Hills United Methodist Men's Fellowship Rick Meyerhein, Scoutmaster 898-2193(H) 841-2570(W) Dear Parent, Welcome to Troop 174! Our Troop is happy to have your son as a member and we look forward to working with you on your son's advancement in Scouting.
We would like to let you know what to expect of the Troop, and what the Troop expects of you. We feel that the Scouting program is the finest boys' program in the world. We in Troop 174 are proud of our boys and our Troop and this is where the parents come into the picture. Advancement is a cornerstone of the Scouting program. A boy advances by learning skills, acquiring knowledge, and developing leadership traits and experience. We feel that the parents play a key role in this advancement. The parent, through interest, involvement, recognition, and support, provides the boy with the necessary encouragement to advance. One of the symbols of Scouting is the uniform. The uniform creates a common ground for the boys and should be a source of pride. We feel strongly that each boy should have a complete uniform (shirt, pants, belt, and neckerchief). Since we understand that clothing is expensive, the Troop encourages the trading in of outgrown uniforms. The uniforms are well made and should last for many seasons. You may turn your outgrown uniforms in to any of the leaders. The fee schedule is $4 for any item. The Troop pays for items turned in, charges for items given out and will swap even for any item. Troop 174 tries to maintain a collection of experienced uniforms. Anyone who has purchased a new uniform knows that this is a wise way to do business .. The neckerchief is supplied by the Troop as we design and silk-screen our own. The Troop has a very active outdoors program. In order for our Scouts to enjoy the outdoor activities, we have developed an equipment list and send this list home with the permission slip for each activity. We want to make it clear that it is not necessary to go out and purchase equipment immediately. A good portion of a Scouts equipment can be made by the Scout. The equipment that cannot be made may be borrowed or rented at first. The Troop does have some equipment that can be borrowed. The adult leadership of Troop 174 is always available for consultation and can save you money in the acquisition of personal equipment. Since so much of the scouting program involves working together, in the outdoors, using what we call the Patrol Method, the Troop requests that parents support the program by encouraging your son to be active. Each boy is essential to his Patrol. When boys do not attend an activity the Patrol Method does not work and the whole Patrol suffers. Likewise, since we feel that Scouting is a positive influence in a boy's life, we would prefer that parents not withhold Scouting activities as a punishment. This hurts not only your son, but also the rest of his Patrol and the Troop. If your son will not be active for a period of time, please let one of the adult leaders know so that adjustments can be made. Within the next few weeks, you should be contacted by the Scoutmaster to arrange for a meeting at your house. This will be an opportunity to further explain Scouting, the Troop, and the Patrol Method. We can also answer your questions about the Scouting program. Lastly, in order to provide boys with a quality program, we need parental support and involvement. We have a Troop Committee, made up of parents, to see that the Troop gets the support it needs. Each parent is expected to help by joining the Committee or helping the Troop in other areas. There are always positions available on the Committee, and shortly, if you do not volunteer, you will be contacted by a member of the Committee to see how you would like to help. Committee jobs are usually ones that can be accomplished at your convenience, and usually don't take more than 2 hours per month. The old adage "Many hands make light work," really applies here. We also ask that a parent attend the Troop Committee meeting once a month. This is your opportunity to learn about the upcoming activities and plans. It is also your chance to ask questions or voice your opinion. We really do appreciate knowing your thoughts and ideas about our Troop program. We have observed that most problems are a result of misunderstanding and/or lack of communication. Everyone involved with Troop 174 is a volunteer, but no one has more at stake then the parents. PLEASE VOLUNTEER -- your Scout will really grow if you can be knowledgeable about Troop activities and are actively involved in the Troop with him. THE REWARDS ARE WORTH IT! Thank you, Rick Meyerhein Scoutmaster Troop 174 On behalf of the Leadership and Committee of Troop 174 A Scout is Trustworthy, Loyal, Helpful, Friendly, Courteous, Kind, Obedient, Cheerful Thrifty, Brave, Clean, and Reverent