Scouts BSA Troop 457 > Articles by: Troop 457

Common Health Form Issues

Troop 457

The Annual Health Form is a complex document and there are many different fields that can go overlooked.  It is important that all fields are completed in order to comply with Scouting America’s policies (and be covered under our insurance).  Our Leaders and the medial teams at camps we may attend will scrutinize the documentation submitted to ensure completeness.

Below are images of the BSA Health Form with callouts identifying specific areas that are commonly overlooked when submitting a health form.  The letter in the callout corresponds to the identifier included in the email you received. Mouse over or click the call out to read more about the requirement and see recommended actions to be taken to resolve the issue.

Page 1 - Part A (Always Required)

Page 2 - Part B (Always Required)

Page 3 - Part B (Always Required)

Page 4 - Part C (Required for any event lasting more than 72 hours)

CategoriesAnnouncements

Growing your Scout Account Balance with our Hanging Basket Sale

Troop 457

Makes a GREAT Mothers Day Gift

Every spring, our Troop sells tickets good for a 10 inch hanging basket or non-bulk product of equivalent price at J.E. Mussig Greenhouses in Zelienople.  (Excludes bulk items like mulch.)

Tickets must be redeemed in the month of May in the year in which they are purchased.

A portion of each ticket directly supports the Scout selling the ticket and enables them to fund their Scouting adventures.

We are once again excited to run this fundraiser as a Troop. With spring upon us, many people are looking to enhance their landscaping with new flower and this fundraiser is an excellent way to do that AND support our Scouting adventures.

Scouts who are interested in participating in this sale will be issued tickets in packs of 10 that can be sold to family, friends, and neighbors. One ticket is $23 and a portion (amount to be announced) of each ticket sold will be credited to your Scout account at the end of the sale.

Please note:

  • Tickets can be sold as soon as you receive them, but can only be redeemed in the month of May.
  • Scouts will only be issued tickets if they plan to participate in the fundraiser.
  • We encourage getting out and selling your tickets early to maximize the time your customers have to use their tickets.
  • We can order additional tickets if there is sufficient demand, but only if we have sold out of other tickets.
  • The cost of unsold tickets that are not returned by DEADLINE will be charged to your Scout Account.
Access our Fundraising Tools
CategoriesSpotlight

The Importance of RSVPing for Our Events

Troop 457

In the world of Scouting, where adventure, learning, and community service intertwine, the success of each event lies in the meticulous planning and preparation by leaders and volunteers. From outdoor expeditions to community service projects, each event is designed to offer Scouts an enriching experience. However, the foundation of a successful event begins with something seemingly simple yet profoundly important: the RSVP.

Why RSVP Matters

At the heart of every scouting event, from troop meetings that require specific preparations to large-scale outdoor adventures, lies the challenge of planning. This challenge is magnified when the number of attendees remains unknown. An accurate headcount is not just a number; it’s the key to ensuring that resources are adequately allocated, that activities are scaled correctly, and that everyone has a memorable and safe experience.

Understanding RSVP Deadlines

Recognizing the importance of planning, scouting events that require an RSVP set clear deadlines. These are not arbitrary dates but rather critical checkpoints for event organizers to make necessary reservations and preparations. The troop sends several reminders leading up to this deadline, emphasizing that changes post-deadline cannot always be accommodated. This is especially true for events requiring per-person bookings. Early RSVPs are not just appreciated; they are essential. They provide a preliminary headcount that shapes the event’s planning stages. In TroopTrack, a tool many troops use, RSVPs are straightforward, allowing members to indicate their attendance or absence, ensuring that everyone is accounted for.

RSVPs for Troop Meetings

While regular troop meetings might not always require an RSVP, there are exceptions. Special meetings that need an accurate headcount or those that differ from the routine schedule will prompt a reminder for members to confirm their attendance. This ensures that no scout misses out on important events due to a lack of information.

How to RSVP Using TroopTrack

TroopTrack simplifies the RSVP process. Members can navigate to the event details, where they’ll find an RSVP card. This card allows members to indicate their attendance, add guests, and include any relevant comments. This system streamlines the process, ensuring that organizers have all the necessary information, from attendance numbers to special requirements.

Beyond TroopTrack: Other RSVP Methods

Sometimes, scouting events have specific needs that TroopTrack can’t address. For instance, an event might require additional information from attendees, like ski trip rentals and lesson requirements. In such cases, troops might use alternative methods, such as online forms, to gather this essential information. Instructions for these alternative RSVP methods are always clearly provided, ensuring that every member has the opportunity to participate fully.

Conclusion

In scouting, every adventure, meeting, and project is a building block in the development of young individuals. The act of RSVPing, though seemingly small, plays a pivotal role in this developmental journey. It ensures that every event can be tailored to the needs and numbers of those attending, fostering an environment where every scout can thrive. So, as we continue to embark on these adventures together, let’s remember the significance of a simple RSVP. It’s not just about saying you’ll be there; it’s about being part of a community that values preparation, respect, and the shared joy of scouting experiences.

CategoriesAnnouncements

Zroni Roll Orders Closing & Pickup Information

Troop 457

The Zroni Roll fundraiser is coming to a close this Tuesday and so far we have sold over 180 rolls!  That’s $900 to be credited to our Scout’s accounts!

REMINDERS

Just a few reminders as we close in on the deadline:

  • Online orders will be closing soon.  We hope to keep the orders open through our meeting on Tuesday, but we may need to close earlier to accommodate a request from Zroni Roll.
  • You must turn in any outstanding paper order forms AS SOON AS POSSIBLE.  If you have a paper order form, take a picture of it and email/text it to Mr. Roy and myself.  You should also turn in your form along with all payments (except those taken through Venmo) at Tuesday’s meeting.

ORDER PICKUPS

Zroni Roll orders must be picked up in the ELC parking lot at 6PM on Friday, March 8.  If you cannot make that time, it is your responsibility to make other arrangements to pickup your order.

CategoriesAnnouncements Summer Camp

Seven Ranges Scout Reservation

Troop 457

Troop 457 is headed to Seven Ranges Scout Reservation for Summer Camp June 23 – 29!  We plan on holding two parent-only meetings about our Summer Camp trip later this year (Dates TBD):

  • March: We’ll review the camp registration process, share important information / timelines and answer any questions you may have about summer camp.
  • Early June: We’ll collect and review all required documentation (e.g., Health Forms, Permission Slips) and review what to pack for the week.

WHAT TO BE DOING NOW

The most important thing to be doing now is deciding whether your Scout will be heading to camp this summer.  Once you decide to attend, you / your Scout should be considering the following:

  • What merit badges would you like to take?  (See page 13 of the Leaders Guide linked below)
  • How will you pay for camp?  (We are working on the process for using Scout Account funds to pay for camp.)
  • Will you participate in the Camp Honors program?

Seven Ranges has a unique camp honors program called “Pipestone” that all campers are encouraged to participate in.  Most requirements must be completed at camp, but there are two requirements that should be completed before arriving at camp:

  • Earn the Scout Rank (you must have the Scout rank to be eligible to earn your Pipestone)
  • Collect Pipestone Wood (see the Guide to Pipestone Wood referenced below)

REFERENCE INFORMATION

We’re working to distill down the information you need for Summer Camp but in the meantime you can refer to the following information about the camp and its traditions.

CategoriesAnnouncements

SAVE THE DATE – Court of Honor March 26

Troop 457

Troop 457’s next Court of Honor will be held during our Troop Meeting on Tuesday, March 26. All our members, their families and friends are invited to join us for this ceremony and the reception immediately following.

Below are the important dates for this Court of Honor:

  • March 12: Last day to submit completed rank (including Scoutmaster Conferences and Boards of Review) and Merit Badge requirements.
  • March 19: Last day to RSVP for the Court of Honor.

Rank and Merit Badges completed after March 12 are not guaranteed to be awarded at the Court of Honor.

RSVP TODAY
CategoriesAnnouncements

Get Ready for the Zroni Roll Fundraiser – Delicious Rolls for a Great Cause!

Troop 457

We are excited to announce our upcoming Zroni Roll Fundraiser, a delicious opportunity to support our troop and earn credits for your Scout’s account. Here’s everything you need to know about this mouth-watering event:

  • Price: Only $16 per roll.
  • $5 credited to your Scout Account for each roll sold – a fantastic way to boost your Scout’s funds.
  • Serving Size: Each roll generously feeds 3–4 people, perfect for family dinners or sharing with friends.
  • Zroni Rolls are made fresh and then flash frozen to lock in all the delicious flavors, ensuring you receive them at their best.

We will be providing additional details and options to purchase online in January.

Please note, there is no shipping option available for the Zroni Rolls. This fundraiser is all about community support, and we’re focusing on our local area to make sure everyone gets their rolls fresh and ready to enjoy.

Why Participate?

Apart from being a delicious addition to your meal plans, every Zroni Roll you sell contributes directly to your individual Scout account that they can use to fund their participation in Troop activities from weekend camping trips, Summer Camp, and even Sea Base or other future High Adventure Base trips. It’s a win-win – you and your friends get a tasty treat, and our Scouts get more opportunities for adventure and learning.

We’re counting on your enthusiastic participation to make this fundraiser a success. Remember, more details will follow in January, so stay tuned. Let’s make this a flavorful and fruitful event for everyone!

CategoriesAnnouncements

Join the Panel: Volunteer for Boards of Review!

Troop 457

We’re reaching out to our community of parents and guardians to ask you to volunteer for a special and significant role: a panelists for Boards of Review.  A Board of Review is a pivotal part of a Scout’s advancement process. It’s not a test; rather, it’s a conversation where Scouts reflect on their experiences, learning, and growth. During these sessions, panelists engage with Scouts to understand their journey, assess their readiness for advancement, and provide encouragement for their future endeavors in Scouting.

Who Can Be a Panelist?

Here’s some great news: you do not need to be a registered leader to sit on a Board of Review. The only Board of Review you cannot sit on is one for your own Scout. This opportunity is open to any parent or guardian who wants to contribute to the development of our Scouts. It’s a fantastic way to get involved and see firsthand the positive impact Scouting has on our youth.

Your Commitment

We understand everyone has busy schedules and we value your time. To ensure no one is overwhelmed, we will spread the boards around so that no volunteer is called upon to participate in every Board of Review. Your involvement can be as frequent or as occasional as your schedule allows.

Upcoming Training Session

To prepare you for this role, we will be creating a short Board of Review Panelist Training, which will be available soon. This training will equip you with everything you need to know to be an effective panelist, ensuring a meaningful and enriching experience for both you and the Scouts.

How to Volunteer

Ready to make a difference? If you’re interested in volunteering as a panelist for the Board of Review, please sign up using the form below. Your participation will not only support our Scouts in their advancement but also provide you with a unique and rewarding experience.

CategoriesAnnouncements

Introducing Venmo & Zelle for Scout Account Replenishments!

Troop 457

We are thrilled to announce a significant enhancement that makes it easier for you to manage and replenish your Scout’s account. Understanding the need for convenience and efficiency in today’s digital world, we can now accept payments through two popular digital payment services, Venmo and Zelle.

How to use these payment options

  1. Scan the QR code above OR Open the Venmo app on your mobile device.
  2. In the app, navigate to the ‘Pay or Request’ option.
  3. Search for our Troop’s Venmo handle: @troop457zelie
  4. Enter the amount you wish to add to your Scout’s account.
  5. In the note section, mention your Scout’s name and purpose (e.g., John Doe – Scout Account Replenishment).
  6. Confirm and send your payment.
  1. Access Zelle through your bank’s mobile app or the Zelle app.
  2. Choose ‘Send Money’ and enter [email protected] as the recipient email address.
  3. Enter the amount to transfer.
  4. In the memo, mention your Scout’s name and purpose (e.g., John Doe – Scout Account Replenishment).
  5. Review and send the payment.

It’s that simple! These transactions are quick and secure, ensuring your Scout’s account is always ready for upcoming activities.

We believe these advancements will streamline our financial processes and provide you with greater flexibility in managing your Scout’s account. Stay tuned for more updates as we continue to enhance our processes to serve you better.

Planned Future Capabilities

While we are excited about these new additions, we are also working on future enhancements to make your experience even better:

  • Troop Store Integration: Soon, you’ll be able to use Venmo and Zelle directly in our Troop Store for purchases, making it convenient to buy supplies and gear.

  • Automated Email Reminders: We understand the importance of maintaining a sufficient balance in your Scout’s account. That’s why we’re planning to implement automated email reminders. These reminders will be triggered when your Scout’s account balance falls below a certain threshold, complete with links to instantly replenish the account.

CategoriesAnnouncements Spotlight

Keeping Track of Scout Advancements with TroopTrack

Troop 457

We’re excited to share an important update regarding tracking Scout rank advancements using TroopTrack. Last week, Mr. Maloney placed a QR code sticker on the inside back cover of each Scout’s Handbook (If you didn’t receive a sticker, see Mr. Maloney at our next meeting). Scanning this QR code with a mobile device will take you directly to the Scout’s advancement record in TroopTrack; making it easier than ever to keep track of progress towards rank advancements.

Who Can Update Records? Scouts themselves, adults in their household, and some Troop leaders have the capability to update a Scout’s advancement record by marking requirements as completed. However, it’s important to note that only Mr. Maloney, Mr. Matusiak, and Mrs. Peterson have the authority to approve those completions.

We encourage members to update their own records in TroopTrack at least monthly. This practice offers several significant benefits:

  1. Backup for Advancements: While a Scout’s handbook is their primary record for advancements, it’s always wise to have a backup. Handbooks can be forgotten, lost, or damaged, and in the absence of a backup, Scouts may need to redo completed requirements. Regularly updating TroopTrack ensures that all progress is recorded and safe.
  2. Assisting Leaders in Planning: By adding advancement information to TroopTrack, both youth and adult leaders can easily identify what requirements Scouts need to complete. This visibility allows leaders to better plan activities and events that will help Scouts meet their advancement goals.

To assist with this, we’ve put together a guide on how to mark requirements as completed in TroopTrack. You can find these instructions here: How do I update my advancement records in TroopTrack?. Additionally, a video walkthrough of this process will be available soon.

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