2017Camp Mack Adult Guide
User Manual: 2017CampMackAdultGuide
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Pennsylvania Dutch Council BSA 630 Janet Ave, Suite B114 Lancaster PA 17601 717 394-4063 Email: ben.wohlberg@gmail.com www.padutchbsa.org/camping/mack 1 Table of Contents FROM THE DIRECTOR: 4 DIRECTIONS TO J. EDWARD MACK SCOUT RESERVATION 5 CAMP PHILOSOPHY 6 PRE-CAMP INFORMATION 7 2017 CAMP PROGRAMS AND DATES 7 Cub Scout Day Camp 7 Weekend Resident Camp 7 Weeklong Resident Camp 7 STEM Camp 8 2017 CAMP FEES 9 Per-Scout Deposit 9 Payments: 9 Fees By Camp 9 Discount Camp Fees: 9 PAYING FOR CAMP 10 Savings Plan 10 Fundraisers 10 Camperships 10 Our Military Kids 10 Other Sources of Financial Assistance 10 REFUND POLICY 11 HOW TO REGISTER / SIGN UP YOUR PACK FOR CAMP 12 Individual Registrations ADULT LEADERSHIP 13 14 Leadership Requirements 14 Adult Responsibilities 15 Youth Protection Training 15 Pennsylvania Act 15 Clearances 15 2 Meeting Adult Requirements 15 Confirmation Letters 16 MEDICAL AND INSURANCE INFORMATION 17 Insurance Coverage: 17 Medications: 18 Medical Forms: 18 Required Medical Forms by Camp Program 18 Special Dietary Needs / Restrictions 18 WHAT TO BRING GENERAL CAMP INFORMATION 19 20 ARRIVAL & CHECK-IN 20 FACILITIES & SERVICES: 21 MEALS AND CAMP FOOD SERVICE 24 CAMP STAFF 26 HEALTH, SAFETY, AND EMERGENCY PROCEDURES 28 EMERGENCIES IN CAMP: 29 YOUTH PROTECTION 30 OTHER CAMP POLICIES 34 HOMESICKNESS 37 CAMP PROGRAM 39 THEME 38 AGE-APPROPRIATE PROGRAMS 38 ADVANCEMENT IN CAMP 38 PROGRAM AREAS 39 OPPORTUNITIES FOR WEBELOS 40 STEM CAMP 41 OTHER PROGRAM ACTIVITIES/OPPORTUNITIES 41 SAMPLE DAILY SCHEDULE 43 FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS 44 3 Pennsylvania Dutch Council BSA 630 Janet Ave, Lancaster, PA 17601 717 394-4063 FROM THE DIRECTOR: Welcome, Young Archaeologists! On behalf of the staff and the Pennsylvania Dutch Council, I want to thank you for considering bringing your son, and perhaps yourself and others, to Camp Mack this summer. As you are reading this, we are in the process of transforming camp into a prehistoric world for your Cub Scout (don’t worry, we’re doing everything short of actually cloning the dinosaurs; we know that doesn’t usually end well). This includes creating an exciting outdoor program that offers plenty of opportunity for scout advancement, meeting and exceeding safety standards and building a highly trained and enthusiastic staff. This guide is for anyone who has a scout coming to camp. We are doing a lot of new things with our summer schedule that we hope will allow more scouts to enjoy an exciting time at camp. We want everyone to know the procedures that we have in place so that our campers can have an exciting but also safe experience. Of course the leaders are expected to have a fun time as well; however we also need their help so we can provide a quality program to our Cub Scouts. There is no way that our staff can do it alone, we need parents to help us out! Even if you will not be able to join us as a leader this summer, please take a moment to read through this guide. The information here will help your scout have a great time with us at camp. Again, I want to thank you for considering bringing your son to Camp Mack this summer. If you have any questions, feel free to contact me either by phone at (717) 405-1946 or via e-mail at ben.wohlberg@gmail.com. Yours in Camping Excellence, Ben “Barney” Wohlberg Summer Camp Director J. Edward Mack Scout Reservation 4 DIRECTIONS TO J. EDWARD MACK SCOUT RESERVATION J. Edward Mack Scout Reservation can be reached by several different routes and is easily accessible from major highways and interstates. To Get Directions by MapQuest, Google Maps, or GPS: Input the camp address below: Camp Address: 2 Scout Lane Newmanstown, PA 17073 From ROUTE 30 Take the Rte 501/Lititz Pike Exit. Follow Rte 501 north approximately 12 miles passing through Lititz. J.E. Mack Scout Reservation is conveniently located about 2 miles north of the intersection of US 322 and PA Rte. 501 (Brickerville). From ROUTE 76- PA Turnpike Take the Lebanon exit. Turn onto Rte. 72 north. Follow Rte 72 north to the US 322 split. Stay in the right lane and take US 322. Follow US 322 east to Brickerville. Turn left onto PA Rte. 501 North. Go 2 miles. The entrance to camp will be on the left. 5 CAMP PHILOSOPHY The goal of Scouting is to develop desirable character, personal fitness, and citizenship skills in young people. One of the ways the Pennsylvania Dutch Council, BSA does this is through a summer camp program. Scouting uses an Age Appropriate approach to introduce Cub Scouts to camping early in their Scouting career first through Day Camps and Family Camps. When a Scout is ready, he can move on to overnight Resident Camps lasting from three days for Wolves and Bears to five days for Webelos Scouts. Cub Scout summer camp programs provide an opportunity for families, Dens, and Packs to enjoy the outdoors and have fun together. Cubs will be attending a BSA Nationally Accredited Camp that has a fully trained staff. Our camp also supplements the regular staff with a number of volunteers. These leaders bring skills and talents that enable the Council to provide a high quality, safe program. While Cubs will get a chance to work on various advancement requirements and awards while at camp, Cub Scout summer camp programs are about much more. Cub Scout summer camp programs are about Scouts participating as an individual and as part of a group in various Age Appropriate activities where they get to try new things, have fun, and grow. Cub Scout summer camp programs provide a taste of a lot of different activities as a precursor to moving onto Boy Scout Summer Camp where a Scout gets a chance to master the skills he was introduced to at Cub Scout Camp. 6 PRE-CAMP INFORMATION 2017 CAMP PROGRAMS AND DATES For the first time, we’re offering all of our programs (Day Camp, Weekend Resident, and Weeklong Resident) at the same time. This allows scouts the opportunity to come to camp at any point in the summer without ruining their other summer plans. Listed below are how these programs differ: Cub Scout Day Camp Day Camp is perfect for boys in Tiger and Wolf Dens or boys who may not yet feel comfortable spending the night. Day Camp is open to Cubs of any age. Day Camp provides structured outdoor learning experiences that are challenging and fun. Boys can make new friends and build selfconfidence. Activities include Archery, BB Guns, Nature hikes, Games, Crafts, Swimming and more! Day Camp Dates and Times: Session 1: June 17 – 19, 2017 Session 2: June 24 – 26, 2017 Session 3: July 8 – 10, 2017 Session 4: July 15 – 17, 2017 Each session runs 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM Daily (Monday 8:00AM to 8:00 PM due to Family Night Picnic and Closing Campfire). Weekend Resident Camp Cub Scout Resident Camp is an action-packed, three-day/two-night adventure for those who are ready for the thrill of overnight camping. Whatever rank your scout is, he will experience age appropriate activities to help him advance in Scouting. Campers will have a full schedule of activities including Archery, BB Guns, Nature studies, Games, Crafts, Swimming & Boating, and evening Campfires! Weekend Resident Camp Dates and Times: Session 1: June 17 – 19, 2017 Session 2: June 24 – 26, 2017 Session 3: July 8 – 10, 2017 Session 4: July 15 – 17, 2017 Check-In will be Saturday morning. Specific times will be included in your Pre-Camp Confirmation Letter. Program ends on Monday following the Parent Night Picnic and Closing Campfire. Week-Long Resident Camp Week-Long Resident Camp is a six day/five night adventure for those Cubs and Dens ready for a longer camping experience! Four sessions will be offered, each running from Saturday through Thursday. Week-Long Resident Camp is especially appropriate for Webelos Scouts so they can get a 7 full week summer camp experience under their belt before becoming Boy Scouts. During Weeklong Resident Camp, Scouts get to work on age-appropriate activities planned specifically for each age group plus do all their camp favorites! Special programs will also be provided just for Webelos such as our ever popular Webelos Outpost and Bashore Scout Reservation Field Trip. Week-Long Resident Camp Dates and Times: Session 1: June 17 – 22, 2017 Session 2: June 24 – 29, 2017 Session 3: July 8 – 13, 2017 Session 4: July 15 – 20, 2017 Check-In will be during Saturday morning. Specific times will be included in your Pre-Camp Confirmation Letter. Program ends Wednesday following the Lunch and Check-out. Family Night will be on Monday evening with our other camp sessions. STEM Camp STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) Camp is an exciting three day/two night spin on our traditional Cub Scout Resident Camps. Intended for Cubs of any age, STEM Camp will follow the traditional Cub Scout Resident program schedule but activities will focus on STEM related topics and advancement opportunities, including the BSA’s NOVA Award program. Scouts will still get to do all their favorite camp activities including shooting and swimming. New for 2017: STEM Camp will be offered both as a Weekend Resident Camp and a Day Camp! STEM Camp Dates and Times: Session 1: July 1 – 3, 2017 Check-In will be during the morning of Saturday. Day Camp campers arrive 8 am and leave 4:30 Saturday and Sunday. Specific times will be included in your Pre-Camp Confirmation Letter. Program ends Monday following the Parent Night Picnic and Closing Campfire. 8 2017 CAMP FEES Per-Scout Deposit A $25.00 deposit per Scout is needed by March 15, 2017 to hold the spots needed for the sessions your pack/den is planning on attending. The $25.00 Deposit is Non-Refundable. Payments: When submitting the final payment for each Scout the deposit of $25.00 is going to be subtracted from the amount due. For example: The fee is $120.00 - $25.00 = $95.00 So then you would pay the $95.00 as your final payment. Special Note:All camp registration will be done online at https://padutch.tentaroo.com/. We encourage packs to register as a group, but parents can also register their Scouts by themselves as long as they plan to attend with their son. Fees By Camp Camp Scout Discount Fee (May 15 and Before) Scout Regular Fee (After May 15) Adult Fee Day Camp $120.00 $145.00 $60.00 Weekend Resident Camp $180.00 $205.00 $95.00 Weeklong Res. Camp $285.00 $310.00 $125.00 STEM Resident Camp $180.00 $205.00 $95.00 STEM Day Camp $120.00 $145.00 $60.00 Discount Camp Fees: Pay for Camp in full by Friday, May 15, 2017 and receive a $25 discount off the regular camp fee. Scouts who pay by this date will also receive a FREE camp t-shirt. T-Shirts for Scouts registering after May 15 will be available for purchase in the Camp Trading post while supplies last. 9 PAYING FOR CAMP The Pennsylvania Dutch Council recognizes that summer camp may be a financial hardship for some families. Because of this, here are some ideas of different ways to help families pay for camp. Savings Plan Start putting money back now. Don’t wait! Divide the total camp fee by the number of meetings you have between now and when fees are due. Encourage families to make a payment at each meeting, depositing the money into the Pack account until it is time to pay for camp. A little bit each time adds up to a lot in the end! Fundraisers Hold a pack fundraiser just to help send boys to camp. Make sure you submit the necessary Unit MoneyEarning Application. Set goals and encourage families to raise the money for their scouts to attend camp. Camperships The Pennsylvania Dutch Council Campership Fund is available to help those scouts with a genuine financial need attend camp. To apply, download the Campership Application Form from http://www.padutchbsa.org/camping/mack, fill it out, and submit it to the Pennsylvania Dutch Council Service Center no later than March 15, 2017. Submission of an application does not guarantee a campership. The maximum campership granted is 50% of the applicable youth camp fee. Camperships are not available to assist with Adult Camper fees. Over the past few years, the amount of camperships requested has been more than the total funds available. In order to help as many Scouts as possible, if a campership is granted, it may be for less than the amount requested. All awards are based on the Discount Camp Fee. Notification of awards will be mailed directly to the parent/guardian by April 15, 2017. A copy of the notification letter must accompany final payment. Our Military Kids Our Military Kids is a program that provides substantial support in the form of grants to the children of National Guard and Military Reserve personnel who are currently deployed overseas, as well as the children of Wounded Warriors from all branches. These grants are to help children participate in programs, including summer camps, which help nurture children while their parent/guardian is away. For more information and directions on how to apply, go to http://www.ourmilitarykids.org. Other Sources of Financial Assistance There are numerous other sources of financial assistance to help send a Scout to Camp. The first place to start is your Chartered Organization. The organization may have funds available or be able to point you toward organization members who are willing to help. Service, Veterans, and Fraternal Organizations tend to be especially willing to help. Another source may be Scouters from the community. It never hurts to ask. 10 REFUND POLICY Due to commitments made by the Council for the hiring of staff and purchasing of program supplies, camp materials, and food for summer camp, refund amounts are dependent on time of submission and reason for refund. The $25 deposit per Scout due by March 15 is non-refundable. No refunds or credits will be issued AT camp. Refunds will be issued to the unit via check. No refunds will be issued for unsupported requests. Requests for full refunds (less $25 deposit fee) will only be accepted for medical illness or injury to the Scout, medical illness or injury to an immediate family member, or mandatory attendance to summer school during the scout’s scheduled summer camp week. All requests for refunds for these reasons must be submitted prior to August 31 with supporting documentation to the Pennsylvania Dutch Council Service Center (by email: daniel.hanson@scouting.org, or by mail: 630 Janet Avenue, Lancaster, PA 17601). Written refund requests should be submitted to the Council Service Center and should include the Scout’s name, unit number, date of attendance, reason for refund, and documentation to support refund request. Partial refund requests for all other reasons will be issued based on the date of submission and must be made in writing to the Service Center prior to the dates below: Refund Request made by: Amount to be Refunded: May 15 Total amount paid less $50 June 1 50% of the amount paid June 15 25% of the amount paid After June 15 No Refund 11 HOW TO REGISTER / SIGN UP YOUR PACK FOR CAMP STEP ONE (November to January): Pick dates when your Pack/Den plans on attending camp. Over and over again we see that Packs/Dens that pick dates early and say “this is when we are going, are you coming with us?” get more Scouts to Camp. Having dates picked early helps parents plan ahead and helps the Pack arrange enough adult leadership. STEP TWO (December to March): Contact the Camp Director or Council Service Center to Schedule a Camp Promotion Presentation. Presentations should be scheduled between January and March at an event that most families will be at (Pack Meeting, Blue & Gold, Pinewood Derby, etc.). Try to avoid the same event that the Pack’s Friends of Scouting (FOS) presentation will be at. A representative from the camp will come to your event and put on a brief presentation about summer camp, answering any questions Scouts, Leaders, and Parents may have. If your Pack hosts a Camp Promotion Presentation no later than March 31, 2017 you will receive credit for one additional FREE adult. STEP THREE (By March 15): After deciding which session you want to attend, go to https://padutch.tentaroo.com and register for camp online. If you do not know your pack’s Tentaroo login information, please contact the Council Service Center before you set up a new account. By March 15, pay your Scout deposits. On Tentaroo, you should pay a deposit of $25 per youth planning to come. Deposits are non-refundable, but they are transferrable to another Scout if needed. Although we understand that numbers will change as Scouts are added or removed from your roster, please try your best to be as accurate as possible. We use these numbers in all our planning. Do not miss this deadline of March 15. NOTE: We suggest you submit your deposit form as soon as possible to reserve your pack’s space. Do not Delay! STEP FOUR (By May 15): Register your Scouts and Adults for the sessions that they will be attending. Pay your final balance. To receive the discounted rate, the final balance must be paid by May 15. After this, prices increase for both Scouts and leaders. 12 STEP FIVE (May 13 or 21): Attend one of the two Pre-Camp Adult Meetings either Saturday, May 13 or Sunday, May 21 at the Camp Mack Training Center. Important information about preparing for camp will be shared, program updates given, and you will have a chance to get any of your questions about camp answered. STEP SEVEN (June and July): Come to Camp and Have Fun!!!! Individual Registrations Boys who attend camp with other members of their Pack or Den tend to have a much better camp experience. It is also much easier on Adults to attend when other members of the Pack/Den are attending. But what happens if one of your Scouts cannot come to camp the same session as the rest of the group? That’s OK! They can still come to camp. In this case, an Adult Family Member (21 years of age or older) must accompany each Cub Scout the entire session. To register as an individual, go to Tentaroo and submit your payment. 13 ADULT LEADERSHIP Adults are an essential component of a successful Cub Scout Summer Camp Session. It is up to the Pack to help ensure that a sufficient number of adults recruited to come to camp with the Cub Scouts. Leadership Requirements Two-Deep Leadership Requirements must be met at all times. This means that two adults need to attend camp with the Pack/Den, one of whom must be at least 21 years of age and be a registered leader with the BSA. The other adult must be at least 18 years of age. Required Adult to Scout Ratio: The Boy Scouts of America require an Adult to Scout ratio of no less than One (1) Adult to Four (4) Scouts on top of the Two-Deep Leadership Requirements. ● New Tiger Cubs (Boys going into 1st Grade in the fall) must be accompanied by an Adult Partner. The required ratio for these boys is One (1) Adult to One (1) Scout. ● Every Scout must have an adult that is responsible for them. This must be arranged before attending camp. Camp Mack does not provide extra adults to meet adult to scout ratio requirements. This adult may be a registered Leader accompanying the group or, as some Packs do, a parent may be required to accompany each child. Warning: We have found that mandating parent attendance results in reduced participation. ● Adults do not have to stay for an entire camp session. Adults can switch in and out as long as required Two Deep Leadership and Adult to Scout Ratios are met at all times. Adults coming and going must follow camp sign-in/sign-out procedures. In the past we have seen Packs be very successful at camp with switching leadership. For example, one adult comes during the day then another takes their place after work and spends the night. ● Do not automatically assume that adults will sign up with their scouts. Actively recruit them and be sure you are meeting Two-Deep Leadership and Adult to Scout ratio requirements. Failure to meet these requirements may result in scouts being sent home. No refunds will be granted in this instance. 14 Adult Responsibilities While in Camp, Adults have a few responsibilities to help make Camp a successful experience for their Cub Scouts. These responsibilities include: ● Have Fun! Camp is a place for you to have fun also! There will be several opportunities for adults to do something just for the adults. ● Work cooperatively with the Camp Staff. The camp staff will ask for help at various stations. We need your help for safety reasons and to facilitate various programs and activities. ● Follow all camp rules and guidelines and help your Cub Scouts do the same ● Communicate needs or issues with the Camp Staff in a timely fashion. If something is wrong, don’t wait until the end of camp to tell us! We can’t do anything about something we don’t know about! ● Take responsibility for the Cub Scouts in your Pack. You are their adult leadership, even if you are “just a parent.” This responsibility includes making sure Cubs on medication take their medications and handling discipline in accordance with the BSA’s Youth Protection Guidelines. Know if any of the Scouts in your group have special needs, challenges, or personal problems that may impact their enjoyment of camp. Youth Protection Training At least one adult who has completed the BSA’s Youth Protection Training must be in camp at all times. We highly, highly, highly recommend that all adults coming to camp take this valuable training! Taking this training will help them help us make sure Youth Protection Guidelines are met and will help them understand why we have some of the rules in place that we do. Youth Protection Training will be offered each camp session on Day 1. Pennsylvania Act 15 Clearances For all adults attending camp they must upload their clearances on the Council Website, padutchbsa.org/act15, before arriving at camp. Meeting Adult Requirements Again, it is up to the Pack to make sure that Adult Leadership Requirements are met. Here are a couple things to help you with this: 15 Free Adult Leader Incentive: For every Five (5) scouts attending the same session, one adult gets to attend FREE! It is up to your Pack to determine how you want to handle this and/or who your free adults will be. See the schedule below to see if you qualify for FREE adults: # of Youth Campers 5-9 10-14 15-19 20-24 25-29 # of FREE Adults 1 2 3 4 5 Help Pay for Adult Participants: In some Packs, if an adult agrees to go to camp., the pack helps cover all or a portion of their costs. Again, this is up to you. Ask Early!: Ask adults for help at camp early so they can get time off from work and/or make arrangements for their other children. Confirmation Letters Parent Letters Parents will receive an e-mail approximately three weeks prior to your camping session. Things that will be in your confirmation letter are as follows: ● Camp Den Assignment (Subject to change before arrival) ● Camp Site Assignment (Subject to change before arrival) ● Check-In Time (PLEASE make sure you are on TIME) ● Packing List ● For Weeklong Resident Camp Attendees o Information About Webelos Outpost o Information About the Webelos II Camp Bashore Field Trip/Permission Slip Primary Contact Letter The individual listed as the Primary Contact for each session will receive an e-mail approximately three weeks prior to your camping session. The Primary Contact letter will include: ● Copies of the materials listed above for the Parent Letter ● A roster of all the boys from your Pack attending the session ● Names and contact information for other Packs/Dens that may be sharing a campsite with your group. 16 MEDICAL AND INSURANCE INFORMATION Insurance Coverage: All registered members of Pennsylvania Dutch Council are automatically covered by Health and Accident Insurance. Under the provisions of this policy, your Scout is covered for any deductible amount not covered by your family's insurance company. (Please verify that your family's current policy number and company information is provided on the medical form.) Proof of coverage for out of council packs will need to be provided at check-in. It is the responsibility of the Scout’s parent to file insurance claims. As a courtesy, the Health Lodge staff will provide the initial forms and information required for getting treatment. Neither the PA Dutch Council nor the Health Officers are responsible to follow up on unpaid claims, or file additional paperwork for follow-up treatments. Medications: All medications must be kept secure at all times. Lock boxes and a locked refrigerator are available in the Camp Office for this purpose. Camp Mack will no longer be providing lock boxes to keep medications in campsites due to liability and privacy concerns. The Health Officer will be available in the Camp Office before and after each meal and in the evening to dispense medications. Make sure medicine is clearly marked with name, pack #, and instructions. Youth may not keep in their possession any medications with exception of Epi-Pens, Inhalers, and life-dependent emergency medicine. As an adult going to camp make sure to talk with Parents about any Scouts on medication and the times he needs to take them. Please refer to the Camp Policy on Drug Abuse and the Behavior Management Plan. Medical Forms: A BSA Medical Forms is required for every person in camp (Youth and Adult), and a separate form is required for each session attended. Please send health forms to camp two weeks prior to your camp session. HEALTH FORMS WILL NOT BE ACCEPTED AT THE COUNCIL SERVICE CENTER. Be sure to make copies of the form before you come to camp. Keep originals in a safe place as they can be used again for other activities. COPIES CANNOT BE MADE AT CAMP, AND THEY CANNOT BE PROVIDED AT A LATER TIME. These forms are extremely important so that we can help ensure the safety and health of everyone in camp! Forms will be returned at the end of each session. Forms left at camp will be destroyed. BSA Medical Forms are only good for one year from the time they are dated. Please make sure forms do not expire before or during the camp session. Any person who arrives without a current medical form on file may not stay in camp beyond 24 hours, and will not be permitted to take the swim test or participate in any strenuous activities. Arrangements must be made to obtain a physical exam within that time frame or else the person must return home until the situation is resolved. There is a local urgent care facility that offers walk-in service. Units are responsible for any costs of getting a 17 new physical as well as making transportation arrangements. Being sent home for failure to provide the required BSA Medical Form is not grounds for a refund. Required Medical Forms by Camp Program Official BSA Medical Forms can be found online at www.padutchbsa.org/camping/mack/summercamp. Only Official BSA Medical Forms will be accepted. For Frequently Asked Questions about the BSA Medical Form go to: http://www.scouting.org/scoutsource/HealthandSafety/Resources/MedicalFormFAQs.aspx Weekend Resident & STEM Camps: Scouts – BSA Medical Form Part A & B (Health History MUST be updated every year) Adults – BSA Medical Form Part A & B (Health History MUST be updated every year) Day Camp: Scouts – BSA Medical Form Part A & B (Health History MUST be updated every year) Adults – BSA Medical Form Part A & B (Health History MUST be updated every year) Weeklong Resident Camp: Scouts – BSA Medical Form Parts A, B & C are REQUIRED (MUST be COMPLETED & SIGNED by doctor) Adults – BSA Medical Form Parts A, B & C are REQUIRED (MUST be COMPLETED & SIGNED by doctor) Special Dietary Needs / Restrictions: Camp Mack does its best to accommodate anyone with special dietary needs/allergies. This can only be done if we are given advanced notice. For any Scout or Adult with any special food needs a Summer Camp Special Dietary Needs Form must be filled out and submitted with their Medical Form. Forms turned in upon arrival will be accepted however provisions may not be able to be met. This form is available at www.padutchbsa.org/camping/mack/summercamp. 18 WHAT TO BRING PERSONAL GEAR LIST To help you prepare for your stay at resident camp, here is a list of camping equipment that you should bring. We recommend labeling everything with the Scout’s name and Pack #. This list is available as a separate handout at www.padutchbsa.org/camping/mack/summercamp GENERAL ____ Small Backpack for carrying items during the day. ____ Footlocker or Suitcase ____ Sleeping Bag or 2-3 blankets ____ Pillow ____ Air Mattress or Sleeping Pad ____ Scout Uniform on plastic hanger CLOTHING ____ Swim trunks ____ Camp shoes for around the campsite (no open-toed shoes) ____ 3 pairs pants (long or short) ____ Pajamas ____ 3 T-shirts ____ Sweatshirt or jacket ____ 3-5 pair socks ____ Poncho or raincoat ____ 3-5 changes of underwear ____ Hiking boots ____ Flip-flops/water shoes (for shower and pool areas only) PERSONAL ITEMS ____ 2 towels (one for showering and one for swimming) ____ Soap ____ Flashlight ____ Washcloth ____ Laundry bag ____ Toothbrush and toothpaste ____ Insect repellant ____ Sunscreen ____ Water Bottle ____ Shampoo ____ Extra batteries ____ Comb or brush ____ Hat/sunglasses EXTRAS ____ Notebook and pencil or pen ____ Camera ____ Money for Trading Post ____ Walking Stick ____ Watch ____ Extra shoelaces ____ Cub Scout Handbook ____ Camp Chair GROUP GEAR LIST This is a list of items we find that Packs/Dens should bring for the entire group: ____ Water Jug ____ Cooler for snacks ____ Clothesline ____ Pack/Den Flag ____ Costumes/Props for Campfires ____ Campsite Decorations (Our theme is Space!) ____ Lantern ____ Saw or Axe for gathering fire wood 19 GENERAL CAMP INFORMATION ARRIVAL & CHECK-IN The Check-In time for your Pack/Den will be included in your Confirmation Letter. We highly recommend that Packs/Dens coordinate meeting and then coming to camp as a group. Please do not arrive early for check in; all Camp Staff will be busy in camp preparation until the first check in time. Anyone who arrives early will be asked to wait in the parking lot until their scheduled Check-In time. Sample Check-In Day Schedule ● 9:00 AM Check-In Starts, Medical Re-Checks, Camp Tour, Swim Tests, Trading Post (Camp shirt pick-up), Dining Hall Orientation ● 11:55 PM Assemble at Dining Hall ● 12:00 PM Lunch ● 1:00 PM Afternoon Program ● 5:45 PM Retreat Ceremony at Dining Hall ● 6:00 PM Dinner ● 7:00 PM Photos, Free Swim for Scouts, Adult Meeting at Dining Hall, Youth Protection Training ● 8:20 PM Gather for Campfire at Dining Hall ● 8:30 PM Opening Campfire Program at Campfire Circle Check-in Procedures: 1. To the best as you are able, arrive as a Pack. You will be greeted at the main parking lot by a staff member who will direct you to your campsite. 2. When at your sites, please unload your gear quickly, to allow for other campers to drive up to the sites to do the same. When camp is in session, there can be no vehicles in the sites without prior approval of the Camp Director or Camp Ranger. 3. Staff members will be in each of the campsites to go over registration and get to help the scouts with their gear if needed. We recommend that campers wear their swim trunks under their uniforms to save time later in the check-in process. 4. A staff member (Camp Guide) will greet you and take your group on a camp orientation tour. 5. After lunch, scouts will be broken into their dens, and will then start their space adventure! 6. During the evening free swim there will be a leaders meeting to go over important information and answer question that you might have. 20 FACILITIES & SERVICES: MAIL: Our camp has daily mail service. Due to the shortness of the stay of Weekend Resident Campers, we recommend against sending mail to Scouts attending Weekend Resident Sessions. However, Weeklong Resident Campers may receive mail late in their week. Incoming mail is distributed to the campsite's mailbox/folder located in the Camp Office. Outgoing mail should be deposited in the Camp Office mailbox by 10:00am daily. Mail that arrives after a camper has left camp will be returned to sender Incoming mail should be addressed as follows: J.E. Mack Scout Reservation c/o (Scout Name, Pack #, Session) 2 Scout Lane Newmanstown, PA 17073 PHONES: The J. Edward Mack Scout Reservation phone number is (717) 626-8711. This line is available only for official camp business and must be kept open for emergencies. There is not pay-phone service available at Camp Mack. Most cell phones have reception at camp. We strongly recommend that Packs/Dens discourage Scouts from bringing their own cell phones to camp. Adults who need to keep in contact with home or office are encouraged to make use of their personal cell phones. Electric outlets are located around camp that can be used for charging phones, however, Camp Mack is not responsible for phones left unattended. Please use phones out of eyesight of the Scouts. This will help curb potential homesickness problems as well as lessening disruption for the total camping experience for the boys and others in camp. Phone messages will be placed in the unit’s mailbox, unless marked URGENT, and then all attempts will be made to get it to the unit as soon as possible CAMP OFFICE: The camp offices are located in the small building to the right of/behind the Trading Post. This is the hub of camp operations and is manned by a staff member to answer phones, questions, and provide assistance, information, and forms which you may need while in camp. The Program Director office can be found here as well. The Camp Director’s office is located right across the walkway. The Camp Office is closed during meal times. 21 LAUNDRY FACILITIES: Several coin operated washers and dryers are available for use for those unforeseen happenings. Machines are located in the breezeway at the comfort station/shower house. Laundry detergent is available in the trading post. Cost per load is $1.00 for the washers and dryers. LOST AND FOUND: If your Scouts “misplace” something or find something lying about, a lost and found box is located on the porch of the Camp Office. Items of value such as watches, wallets, etc. will be locked up in the Camp Office for the owner to claim. Unclaimed items will either be thrown away or donated to a clothing bank at the end of the camping season. We will make every attempt to return an item to its rightful owner. TRADING POST: As a service to campers, a Trading Post is operated at camp. Among the items for sale are craft kits, books, Camp Mack souvenirs (hats, t-shirts, patches, sweatshirts, etc.), camping equipment, batteries, personal hygiene items, stamps, and much, much, more. Snacks available in the afternoon and evening hours may include candy, ice cream, Popsicles, slush-puppies, bottled water, soda, and many other items. Cash, Check, MasterCard and Visa are accepted HOW MUCH MONEY SHOULD MY SCOUTS BRING TO CAMP? It is recommended that Day Camp, Weekend Resident, and STEM Campers bring approximately $25 per session for the Trading Post. Weeklong Resident Campers should plan on bringing $50 per session. Please make sure that your Scout is prepared by reviewing the costs of den/pack photos, as well as souvenirs and snacks prior to attending camp. We recommend that unit adults be aware of Scouts carrying large sums of money and offer to hold it for them. This will avoid disappointment in the event the money is misplaced, lost or stolen. SOUVENIR PHOTOS: After dinner Day 1 of each camp session a photographer will be available to take a souvenir group photo of your Pack/Den. The cost of each 8”x10” color print is $8.00 and should be pre- ordered online, or ordered at check-in. Photos will be ready at checkout. 22 CAMPSITES: Campsites are equipped with BSA standard canvas wall tents on wooden tent platforms. Tents are arranged in a “Pod” format with three tents surrounding a central common area with a picnic table and tarp. Each tent contains two canvas cots. Air mattresses or foam pads (not provided) could add to your comfort. Each site is also equipped with a trashcan. Additionally, each campsite features running water and a pit-latrine. The following tools are provided and can be found hanging on the side of your latrines; shovel, rake, broom and fire bucket. Additional supplies such as toilet paper and trash bags can be obtained from the Camp Office or Ranger. There is an electric outlet available at each latrine. During your stay, your group will be expected to help keep your campsite clean. The Camp Commissioner Staff will stop by daily for a “Campsite Inspection.” Campsites are judged as a whole so groups sharing a campsite will need to work together. These “Campsite Inspections” are a tool to help teach Scouts to work together to achieve a goal, encourage them to take pride in their campsite, and to help ensure health and safety standards. Specifics of the “Campsite Inspection” will be gone over during the Check-In Day Adult Meeting. If you do not enroll enough boys to fill a campsite, Pennsylvania Dutch Council reserves the right to move you to another campsite, or have you share the site with another unit of our choosing so that we may accommodate boys who want to attend camp. We will make every effort to keep Packs/Dens together in one site. SHOWER HOUSES / RESTROOMS: Flush toilets and hot showers are available as a convenience to campers. A Shower House/Comfort Station is conveniently located near the Dining Hall and Swimming Pool. Flush bathrooms are also located in the Alley Action Center just off the main parking lot. Occasionally, unsanitary conditions require us to temporarily close facilities until the responsible parties correct the situation. Shower houses are meant to supplement, not replace, the washstands and latrines in the campsites. Shower houses are closed to campers after taps. If you find that supplies are needed or facilities need to be cleaned, tell a Staff member right away. ACCESSIBILITY: Most of the facilities at J. Edward Mack Scout Reservation have been upgraded over the past several years to comply with ADA standards. Wheelchair access is available to all program areas as well as the Camp Office, Trading Post, Dining Hall, and Shower Facilities. Please notify the Camp Director if your unit has any special needs for accessibility and we will do our utmost to accommodate them. 23 MEALS AND CAMP FOOD SERVICE DINING AT CAMP MACK: All meals are served cafeteria-style in the Camp Dining Hall Pavilion. The council employs a professional food service company to prepare and provide nutritious, balanced meals. During Webelos Resident Camp, Webelos will have the chance to help prepare their own dinner while participating in the Webelos Outpost Campout. Camp menus are based on school lunch menus and standards and will be posted on the bulletin board outside the Pavilion. Cereal is available at all breakfasts. A full line salad bar, along with peanut butter/jelly and bread are available at all lunches and dinners. Coffee and water are available in the Dining Pavilion at all times. EVENING SNACKS: Evening snack is included in your camp fee. You are free to bring your own snack (marshmallows, mountain pie ingredients etc.) to enjoy back at your campsite. Please ensure that any and all food kept in your campsite is kept in sealed containers and out of tents to avoid potentially dangerous encounters with wildlife. GUEST MEALS: Occasionally Packs/Dens may have a guest or leader in camp that may stay overnight, or is just visiting over mealtime. If the guest is taking the place of a camper who is not in camp, there is no charge for the meal(s). Otherwise, he or she should pay for the meal at the Camp Office. The cost is $8.00 per meal (including the Family Night Meal). FAMILY NIGHT DINNER: Monday evening in Camp is Family Night. Families are invited to visit camp and see all the fun things Scouts have been doing. Family Night Guests are asked not to arrive at camp before 5:30 PM. A closing Flag Ceremony will be held at 5:45 PM with Dinner following at 6:00 PM. The cost for Family Night dinner guests is $8.00. Campers and Leaders from the camp session plus children under five are free. Family Night Dinners must be pre-ordered with final camp payment. Additional meals can be added at the time of check-in, however, after this time, dinners cannot be provided for additional guests. SPECIAL DIETARY NEEDS: The Pennsylvania Dutch Council, Boy Scouts of America, strives to serve its campers nutritious meals which meet or exceed all applicable requirements and standards. The variety of foods available at meals is usually adequate to suit the nutritional needs of most campers. In order to meet the needs of participants who have special dietary requirements due to allergies, food intolerances, or other health issues, as well as those who follow alternate diets for ethical or religious reasons, it is necessary to obtain as much information as possible prior to arrival at camp. Please be as specific as possible regarding exact nature and severity of any allergy or intolerance. This information is necessary to determine whether the individual can simply avoid eating 24 certain foods, whether we need to assess all ingredients in every food, or whether offending foods can or cannot be stored or served where they may contact the individual or things he or she may eat. Additionally, extra time may be required to obtain special foods such as gluten-free bread or vegan entrees. While the Pennsylvania Dutch Council attempts to provide meals which meet these special needs as much as possible, it is still the responsibility of the individual to avoid those foods which he or she is unable to eat. In some rare cases, it may be necessary for the camper to bring some food items, which can then be prepared by the camp food service. If a Camper or Leader has special dietary needs, a Summer Camp Special Dietary Needs Form must be submitted with the camper’s Medical Form. 25 CAMP STAFF Our Camp Staff is made up of youth and adults, ranging from 14 to 75 or more years old. The youth staff is selected based upon their knowledge, level of experience, leadership ability, enthusiasm for Scouting, and overall maturity. Many are Eagle Scouts, or are close to attaining it. The adult staff is knowledgeable and experienced as well. We try to hire only the best role models and teachers in their fields. All of our staff undergoes extensive training in BSA Policy, First Aid, CPR, Customer Service, Teaching Techniques, Safety, Youth Protection, and many, many more topics before they ever see their first camper. The average staff member has 3-4 years of on-the-job experience at camp. We are proud of our staff and are confident that they will live up to your high expectations. We strive to make your time at Mack as hassle-free and enjoyable as possible. If you ever have any comments, compliments, or suggestions, please do not hesitate to share them with us. YOUR RELATIONSHIP WITH THE CAMP STAFF: The staff believes that unit adults are an extended part of our team. You will be asked to help in various program areas or with specific projects or activities. This is to help make sure every Cub Scout gets the best possible program. Please direct any special requests, problems, or concerns directly to the Camp Director or Program Director. OPEN DOOR POLICY: The Camp Director, Program Director, and the Pennsylvania Dutch Council all have an open door policy. This is to say that any leader or camper can request an appointment to discuss problems confidentially. CONCERNS/COMPLAINTS: If you have a problem or a concern please let a Camp Staff Member know about it as soon as possible. Many concerns/issues can be addressed right away making sure your stay at Camp Mack is enjoyable. It is hard for us to do something about a problem if we don’t find out about it until the end of your stay. Suggestions for improving the operation of our camps and camp programs are always welcome. STAFF AREA/STAFF LOUNGE: The Staff campsite and lounge is located behind the Dining Pavilion. This is an off limits area to campers and adults. This campsite serves as the home for the camp staff during the entire summer. Just as you wouldn’t like someone coming into your home and snooping around, please be respectful of the Camp staff’s space and privacy. This is the area where they get a chance to relax a bit. 26 THE CAMP DIRECTOR is responsible for the overall operation of the camp, health & safety, youth protection, business transactions, staffing, food service, unit relations, maintaining the standards as set forth by the BSA and Pennsylvania Dutch Council, and coordinating all services provided by Camp Mack. THE PROGRAM DIRECTOR is responsible for any and all programs taking place in camp, specialty programs, campfires, and family night programs. He is also responsible to manage and oversee program areas, and work with the Camp Director to ensure a quality experience for all Scouts and Scouters while in camp. THE CAMP RANGER is responsible for the maintenance of the physical camp facility, grounds keeping, camp security, enforcement of BSA and Camp Policies, and the health & safety of all campers. Please report any damage or maintenance needs through the Camp Office. Any health and safety items that need attention are given top priority. CAMP COMMISSIONERS: We are fortunate to have a few volunteer commissioners who serve as a valuable resource while in camp. The Camp Commissioner’s primary function is to help adults by providing information, answering questions related to the camp and its program, policies and procedures, helping with upset boys, and serving as liaison to the Camp Director for any problems or concerns unit adults may have. Outside of Summer Camp, many of our Camp Commissioners also volunteer as Unit Commissioners specializing in helping Scouting Units be successful. If you have questions about how to make Scouting better in your unit during the rest of the year, don’t hesitate to ask. The Commissioners are here to help! HEALTH OFFICER: Fully trained health care professionals holding 1st Responder or higher credentials staff our Health Lodge. In any case, they are well versed in the latest treatments for firstaid, CPR, and follow protocols monitored by the PA Department of Health, the local Camp Physician, and the Boy Scouts of America. The majority of the camp staff is also trained in Basic First Aid and CPR. Our Health Officers also serve as program instructors for First Aid and CPR. AREA DIRECTORS: The Area Director’s job is to ensure that the program in each area of camp is carried out according to the standards of the BSA and Pennsylvania Dutch Council. He or she is responsible for the staff members and Counselors in Training (CIT’s) working in his/her area. Many Area Directors hold special certifications and have been through specialized trainings so they can serve in this important role overseeing program and safety in their respective program areas. Area Directors tend to be older staff with more staff experience. PROGRAM STAFF: Program staff makes up the bulk of the camp staff. These staff members are assigned to particular program areas to help out but also help out in a variety of other ways throughout camp. Program staff tends to be younger and have less camp staff tenure. COUNSELORS IN TRAINING (CITs): CITs are new staff members generally 14 years of age who help out around camp in a variety of ways. They are in camp to learn what it is like to be a camp staff member and are the future of our camp staff. CITs are not paid for the work they do. 27 HEALTH, SAFETY, AND EMERGENCY PROCEDURES Health and Safety in camp is EVERYONE’s Job! We need your help to make sure camp rules, regulations, and polices are followed to make sure everyone has a safe and enjoyable time at Camp Mack. HEALTH LODGE: The camp has a fully equipped Health Lodge capable of providing emergency medical treatment for our campers. This is primarily a First-Aid station. We can take care of the cuts, scrapes, bug bites, and sunburn. We are also equipped with an AED and oxygen. Anything else beyond our scope of treatment protocols will require a trip to the local Emergency Room or Physician’s office. The Health Lodge is also equipped with hospital style beds to allow campers a quiet place to rest in the air conditioning. Unfortunately any camper who is either too sick or unable to stay comfortably in his own tent overnight must return home until he is well enough to stay in camp. INJURIES/ILLNESSES: All illnesses and injuries incurred while in camp must be reported to the Health Officer immediately. Staff members are prepared to give basic first aid treatment in the program areas and will call upon the Health Officer for help if needed. Serious injuries may require the completion of an incident report. Scouts who show signs of illness prior to coming to camp should not come. OPEN TOED SHOES such as sandals, flip-flops, crocs and aqua shoes are only permitted in shower houses, waterfront, or pool areas. This is for your own protection. There is no quicker way to ruin a stay at camp than to mess up your feet since they will be your primary means of transportation. When hiking around camp sturdy, closed-toe shoes (boots or sneakers) are required. SWIM TESTS are done the first day during your camp tour for all scouts and adults wishing to swim or boat while at camp. These tests are important to ensure safe aquatic activities. BSA POLICY MANDATES THAT WE DO BUDDY CHECKS EVERY 10 MINUTES THE BOYS ARE IN THE POOL. This is a safety standard that we MUST follow. RUNNING in camp is not permitted due to the presence of the many tripping hazards such as tree roots, rocks, and uneven ground. The only exception to this is during a camp-wide game when under staff supervision in specific areas of camp. CONTACT WITH WILDLIFE: Camp Mack is home to a wide variety of wildlife. Most (like deer and turkeys) will quickly head the other way when Scouts are in camp. Some (like mice, raccoons, possums, and insects such as mosquitos and ticks) can be bothersome. For insects, we recommend using widely available insect sprays. DO NOT SPRAY THE INSIDE OF TENTS!!!! This destroys the waterproofing. For other animals, the best thing you can do is not give them a reason to come for a visit. At NO time should any food be kept in tents. Any food in your campsite should be kept in sealed containers. The wildlife around camp doesn’t mind sharing their home with visitors for the summer but will look for anything they can get their paws on to eat. Please remind your scouts of this. 28 EMERGENCIES IN CAMP: The Health, Safety and the wellbeing of each and every person on the Camp Mack property is our primary concern, and therefore, specific procedures have been put in place to handle emergencies if they arise. These policies are not optional. Staff members have been highly trained in these procedures and will provide direction through the emergency. Individuals who do not follow staff member directions during an emergency may be asked to leave camp with no refund. Emergencies in camp can take many forms. They could be medical or have to do with Natural Phenomena like lightning or strong storms. In any event, we need your help to respond properly. IF YOU NOTICE AN EMERGENCY: 1. Notify a staff member immediately who will then notify the Camp Director or person in charge of camp at the time in the event the Camp Director is off site. 2. DO NOT CONTACT EMERGENCY MEDICAL SERVICES YOURSELF. IF NEEDED, THE CAMP DIRECTOR WILL DO THIS ONCE THE EXTENT OF THE SITUATION HAS BEEN DETERMINED. 3. Follow all directions given by camp staff members. 4. Gather your Scouts at the Dining Pavilion or at a location as directed by staff members and take a head count. Make sure everyone is accounted for. 5. At the end of the emergency, you may be asked to help fill out a witness statement about what happened. IF YOU HEAR THE EMERGENCY SIREN: 1. Immediately gather all your Cub Scouts and adults and proceed to the Dining Pavilion or other gathering location as directed by a staff member. 2. Get a head count and determine if everyone is accounted for. 3. Follow all camp staff directions. 4. If for some reason the emergency siren is not working or cannot be heard, a staff runner will be sent to provide directions to unit adults. Procedures for Specific Emergencies will be reviewed during the CheckIn Day Adult Meeting EMERGENCY PHONE NUMBERS are posted near all camp phones and are listed below: ● Fire, Police, and Ambulance: 911 ● Ephrata Hospital: 717-733-0311 ● Council Scout Executive-Matt Adams: 717-553-4211 ● Council Program Director-Daniel Hanson: 717-553-4205 At no time should any staff member, camper or adult contact emergency services directly or allow themselves to be interviewed by the media in the event of a camp emergency. In emergency situations, the Camp Director, Council Scout Executive, or Council Program Director are the only designated spokespersons. This policy ensures correct information is shared, keeps unfounded rumors to a minimum, and eliminates unnecessary worry of parents and the public. 29 YOUTH PROTECTION We take our responsibility for the welfare of youth entrusted in our care very seriously. All BSA Youth Protection Policies and Guidelines will be strictly enforced. Also for this reason, policies have been established which pertain to the control of visitors on camp property, release of youth from camp, and verification of no-shows at camp. Policies are summarized below and will be covered in greater detail at the Pre-Camp Adult Meetings and as part of the adult orientation upon arrival at camp. YOUTH PROTECTION TRAINING: At least one adult who has completed the BSA’s Youth Protection Training must be in camp at all times. We highly, highly, highly recommend that all adults coming to camp take this valuable training! Taking this training will help them help us make sure Youth Protection Guidelines are met and will help them understand why we have some of the rules in place that we do. Youth Protection Training will be offered each camp session on Day 1. BSA MANDATORY REPORTING OF CHILD ABUSE POLICY: All persons involved in Scouting shall report to local authorities any good faith suspicion or believe that any child is or has been physically or sexually abused, physically or emotionally neglected, exposed to any form of violence or threat, exposed to any form of sexual exploitation including the possession, manufacture, or distribution of child pornography, online solicitation, enticement, or showing of obscene material. No person may abdicate this responsibility to any other person. IF YOU BECOME AWARE OF ABUSE OR A VIOLATION OF THE BSA’S YOUTH PROTECTION POLICIES WHILE IN CAMP: 1. Ensure the safety of the child 2. Report immediately to the Camp Director 3. In the event of Child Abuse or Medical Emergency, 911 will be contacted immediately. 4. The Camp Director will have you contact Child Line at 1-800-932-0313 to report. 5. The Camp Director will gather all necessary information and also contact Child Line to report. 6. The Camp Director will contact the Council Scout Executive to report and the Scout Executive in turn will contact Child Line to report and initiate procedures for suspension or removal of the individual from Scouting. ALL INDIVIDUALS WITH GOOD FAITH SUSPICION, BELIEF, OR KNOWLEDGE OF ABUSE MUST REPORT! 30 Scouting’s Barriers to Abuse The BSA has adopted the following policies for the safety and well-being of its members. These policies are primarily for the protection of its youth members; however, they also serve to protect adults. Two-deep leadership on all outings required. Two registered adult leaders, or one registered leader and a parent of a participating Scout or other adult, one of whom must be 21 years of age or older, are required for all trips and outings. One-on-one contact between adults and youth members prohibited. In situations that require personal conferences, such as a Scoutmaster’s conference, the meeting is to be conducted in view of other adults and youths. Separate accommodations for adults and Scouts required. When camping, no youth is permitted to sleep in the tent of an adult other than his or her own parent or guardian. Privacy of youth respected. Adults must respect the privacy of youth members in situations such as changing clothes and taking showers at camp, and intrude only to the extent that health and safety require. Adults must protect their own privacy in similar situations. Inappropriate use of cameras, imaging, or digital devices prohibited. While most campers and adults use cameras and other imaging devices responsibly, it has become very easy to invade the privacy of individuals. It is inappropriate to use any device capable of recording or transmitting visual images in shower houses, restrooms, or other areas where privacy is expected by participants. No secret organizations. The Boy Scouts of America does not recognize any secret organizations as part of its program. All aspects of the Scouting program are open to observation by parents and leaders. No hazing. Physical hazing and initiations are prohibited and may not be included as part of any Scouting activity. No bullying. Verbal, physical, and cyber bullying are prohibited in Scouting. This includes activities such as making a Scout sing to have a misplaced item returned. Youth leadership monitored by adults. Adults must monitor and guide the leadership techniques used by youth leaders and ensure that BSA policies are followed. Discipline must be constructive. Discipline used in Scouting should be constructive and reflect Scouting’s values. Corporal punishment is never permitted. Appropriate attire for all activities. Proper clothing for activities is required. For example, skinnydipping or revealing bathing suits are not appropriate in Scouting. 31 Members are responsible to act according to Scout Oath and Law. All members of the Boy Scouts of America are expected to conduct themselves in accordance with the principles set forth in the Scout Oath and Scout Law. Physical violence, theft, verbal insults, drugs, and alcohol have no place in the Scouting program and may result in the revocation of a Scout’s membership. Units are responsible to enforce Youth Protection Policies. The head of the chartered organization or chartered organization representative and the local council must approve the registration of the unit’s adult leader. Adult leaders of Scouting units are responsible for monitoring the behavior of youth members and interceding when necessary. Parents of youth members who misbehave should be informed and asked for assistance. Camp Specific Policies Related to Youth Protection ABSENTEES/ NO SHOWS: When any youth camper on the Pack/Den’s roster does not arrive with the Pack/Den, an absentee/no show verification form will be completed and a check will be made with the parent or the legal guardian. SIGN IN / SIGN OUT: All visitors must report to the Camp Office to sign-in and sign out. Whenever a camper, adult, or staff member departs camp, he / she must also sign-in and sign-out at the Camp Office. Anyone suspected of being an unauthorized person should be reported to the nearest Staff member who will contact the Camp Director. Temporary visitor passes are issued to those persons who are in camp for a limited time. This policy does not apply during family night activities. COLOR CODED WRIST BANDS: These are issued to all campers upon arrival at camp and must be worn at all times to properly identify to others that you belong in camp. Meals may be denied to anyone not wearing a wristband or possessing a meal voucher. In the event a wrist- band is lost, a replacement is available at the pool office during normal program hours. Staff members may be identified by maroon-colored staff shirt and name tag. RELEASE OF CAMPERS: If a parent or legal guardian needs to pick-up their child during camp, they need to inform the Pack/Den Leader prior to pick-up. The person picking-up the Scout must come with a Pack/Den Leader to the camp office so that the child can sign-out and identification be verified. Prior to departing, a Camper Release Verification Form must be completed. Upon return, the camper must again be brought to the office by a responsible adult and not merely dropped off. This policy will be modified during Parent’s Night activities. STANDARDS FOR PRIVACY - SEPARATE facilities for male and female adults are required by BSA National Standards. Married couples may share the same tent. 32 PA ACT 15 CLEARANCES: PA Act 15 requires all volunteers working with youth in Pennsylvania to meet specific state mandated background check requirements including: • Pennsylvania State Police Criminal History Check • Department of Human Services Child Abuse Check • FBI Fingerprint Based Federal Criminal History Check (Volunteers living in state for 10 years or more are exempt, however, they must complete a Disclosure Statement for Volunteers.) Pennsylvania residents should provide proof of completion clearances listed above and upload them to the Council website, padutchbsa.org/act15. Non-PA residents should complete a Non-Resident Disclosure Statement and submit it at camp. For more detailed info, click this link. 33 OTHER CAMP POLICIES Pennsylvania Dutch Council camps are operated for the benefit of all registered Scouts and Scouters in accordance with standards of the Council and BSA. Rules for acceptance and participation in camp programs are the same for everyone without regard to race, color, creed, or national origin. Every precaution is taken to insure the safety of all campers and every effort is made to make their camp stay a pleasant and memorable experience. Toward that end, policies and procedures have been established that pertain to everyone in camp. The law of the camp is the Scout Law, which is simple, yet all-inclusive. VEHICLES: Truck beds may not carry passengers. All vehicles must be returned to the parking lot after loading or unloading gear during check in and checkout. Those who are physically disabled and require a vehicle for mobility must secure permission from the Camp Ranger or Camp Director, and must agree to abide by all camp vehicle rules and speed limits. FLAMMABLES: Aerosol sprays neutralize the water repellency of canvas and should not be used in or around tents or canvas. Open flames are strictly prohibited in or near tents- this includes non-battery operated lanterns, tiki torches, lighters, candles, incense, and tobacco products. SMOKING: Smoking is allowed for adults age 18 and over and is permitted only in designated areas. At Camp Mack, this is behind the Kitchen, out of view of youth members. Please be responsible for properly disposing of your waste. Youth under the age of 18 are not permitted to smoke. This includes the use of electronic cigarettes, personal vaporizers or electronic nicotine delivery systems which simulates tobacco smoking. ALCOHOL AND DRUGS: The Boy Scouts of America has firm policies regarding alcohol and drugs, which are not debatable. Any person unwilling to abide by these policies will be removed from camp immediately. Possession, consumption, or being under the influence of alcohol, illegal, or non-prescription drugs will not be tolerated on property. Local Authorities may be notified. Anyone facilitating or participating in the aforementioned will be dismissed from camp immediately. Use of any prescribed medications is authorized when under the care of a physician, and must be disclosed to the Health Officer on the individual's health form. The Pennsylvania Dutch Council, Boy Scouts of America, supports all local laws, codes, and ordinances of the government bodies in whose territory we operate facilities. Additionally, the Pennsylvania Dutch Council supports the National Council, BSA policy on drug abuse. KNIVES, SAWS, & AXES may be used only in campsites and program areas. Sheath knives are not permitted at camp. Proper axe-yards and Totin’ Chip/Whittlin’ Chip rules should be followed. It is the responsibility of the Unit Leadership to ensure safety precautions are followed. FIREARMS/ARCHERY EQUIPMENT/OTHER WEAPONS may not be brought to camp. Only BB Rifles or Bows provided by the camp will be used. Only BBs/arrows provided by the camp can be 34 used. Other Firearms, BB guns, Paintball Guns, Blow Guns, or weapons related to martial arts or personal protection will be confiscated and turned over to the PA State Police for proper disposal. FIREWORKS of any type are prohibited in camp and are against the law in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. Items will be confiscated and turned over to the PA State Police for proper disposal. FIRES can be a potential hazard in camp, particularly if drought conditions exist. Campers must be cautious with fire following the guidelines of the Camp Fire Guard Plan and Outdoor Code. During times of extreme drought or high heat, a ban on open fires could be imposed. You will be notified if and when those conditions are in effect. FISHING is permitted at Squire Lake during daylight hours. PA Fish and Game Commission laws must be observed. Fishing licenses are required for those over the age of 16. A Catch and Release policy is in place. PETS are not permitted in camp at any time during the camping season in compliance with the Pennsylvania State Health and Safety Codes. This includes Family Nights. This policy does not pertain to pets of permanent camp residents or service animals. PERSONAL PROPERTY: The Pennsylvania Dutch Council cannot be responsible for loss or damage to personal property at camp. Scouts should be encouraged to lock their valuables in a trunk or footlocker when they are not in use or, better yet, not bring them to camp in the first place. It is recommended that campers have insurance coverage for property brought to camp. Most homeowner's policies include provisions for this type of coverage. Report any thefts immediately to Camp Director, Program Director, or Camp Ranger. CURFEW/QUIET TIME: Rest at camp will affect the person's ability to function in a cheerful and safe manner. Scouts need 8-10 hours of rest daily. Adults are expected to set the example by respecting quiet times for the benefit of neighboring campers and themselves. Please keep conversations low, activities to a minimum, and radios on low volume between the hours of 10:00 PM and 6:30 AM. During those hours, campers may not be out of their site without adult supervision. BUDDY SYSTEM: Scouts need to always have a “Buddy” with them whenever they are out of the assigned campsite. 35 UNIFORMS AND OTHER CLOTHING: Scout Uniforms will be worn for evening flag ceremonies, dinner, campfire programs, and chapel services. Before attending, please remove any pins or detachable awards/parts of the uniform that could fall off and get lost. At other times, Scouts and leader should wear a camp t-shirt, pack t-shirt, or plain color t-shirt and shorts or long pants depending upon the weather. Special Note: Please request that Scouts leave articles of clothing at home which may advertise or promote anything that may contradict the values and ideals that Scouting is trying to teach. VANDALISM/DESTRUTION OF CAMP PROPERTY: Youth and adults are responsible for their actions at J. E. Mack Scout Reservation. Any individual caught vandalizing or destroying camp property will be billed accordingly. If it is unknown who conducted the vandalism/property destruction, all Packs/Dens in a campsite (for campsite issues) or the entire camp (for common area issues) will be billed for the total amount of repair/replacement. VISITORS: Due to the busy camp schedule, visitors at times other than Family Night are not encouraged and should be kept to a minimum. These visits, while well intentioned, can greatly distract or interfere with a Scout's participation as well as his advancement and may lead to homesickness. All visitors, regardless of purpose or duration of stay, are required to sign in at the Camp Office and receive a Visitor Pass. (See the Youth Protection section for additional information) 36 HOMESICKNESS Homesickness is a normal part of camp and can be experienced by new campers, experienced campers, and leaders. Even the Camp Staff get homesick sometimes. Most often, homesickness happens in the evening but not always. No one solution fits everyone. Here are some ways that you can help your Scouts who are homesick: 1. Call on the Camp Staff-The Camp Staff is here to help. As part of their training, they learn how to handle homesickness. 2. Make sure everyone stays hydrated-Getting dehydrated can lead to headaches, belly aches, tiredness, and a general sense of “not feeling well.” These symptoms can in turn lead to homesickness. 3. Try to keep everyone calm-Some Scouts experiencing homesickness can get themselves so worked up that they start crying, throwing up, or having other physical reactions. Keep your tone calm and work to calm the Scout down. If a Scout does throw up, make sure to notify the Health Officer. 4. Avoid visits from home and phone calls home-Visits by parents or phone calls home can remind Scouts of the separation making homesickness worse in the long run. Also, if a parent comes to visit one Scout and not another, that other Scout can become homesick. 5. Keep Scouts busy-The camp program schedule is full for a reason. Busy kids don’t think about what they are missing at home. Bring activities for kids to participate in in the evening back at your campsite. 6. Be Positive!-When talking with a homesick Scout remain positive. Get the Scout talking about all the fun things they got to do during the day, what was their favorite activity or staff member and why, and what they look forward to the next day. 7. Bring a Stuffed Animal-Sometimes, having something comforting from home can help a Scout. Be alert for Scouts being picked on by other Scouts if they have a stuffed animal. Another way you can use this is to bring one of your own, and ask a Scout to take care of it for the night. Giving the Scout a job can help distract them and give them a reason to make it through the night. 8. Bring Zipping Tents-Camp Mack provides standard BSA wall tents. These tents, however, do not fully seal resulting in some Scouts feeling exposed. It is ok to bring your own zipping tents to put up in and around campsites so Scouts feel more secure. 9. Avoid saying things like “Be a Big Boy” or “Toughen Up.” –This doesn’t help matters and can make things worse. Be supportive and positive! 10. Remember, a Scout cannot spend the night in a tent with an adult unless that adult is their Parent/Guardian. 37 CAMP PROGRAM Camp Mack works hard to provide the best possible program for your Scouts that is full of fun, learning, and adventure. THEME This summer, the theme for camp is Dinosaurs! Camp Mack will be decorated to suit and all activities will have a Jurassic flavor. Packs/Dens are encouraged to join in the fun by bringing costumes, decorating their campsite, and finding dinosaur themed skits, songs, and run-ons for the campfires. AGE-APPROPRIATE PROGRAMS Camp Programs are designed to be age-appropriate following BSA guidelines. As Scouts get older, they are capable of more so the camp program provides new activities and challenges. This also gives Scouts something to look forward to as they get older. Due to time constraints, many programs at Camp Mack are designed to give Scouts a taste of an activity. As they grow older and move into Boy Scouts, Scouts will have more opportunities to spend longer times participating in activities and master skills. ADVANCEMENT IN CAMP In 2017 there will be a bigger emphasis on advancement while in camp. Adults will be provided with an Advancement Tracking Sheet during check-in to keep track of what boys accomplish while in camp. Advancement opportunities will include various Cub Scout Achievements, Electives, Webelos Activity Badges, Belt Loops, Pins, and other Special Awards. Camp Mack changes the advancement opportunities available each year so returning Scouts are not doing the same thing as the previous year. 38 PROGRAM AREAS The program at Camp Mack revolves around various camp program areas. These areas are listed below: Shooting Sports: This area includes the BB Gun Range, Archery Range, and Throwing Range located in the Alley Action Center. Safety is No. 1 at all times!!!!!!!! Our goal in these areas are to teach Scouts basic shooting skills and that safety does not have to be sacrificed for fun. The Shooting Sports Area is overseen by a BSA National Camping School/NRA certified Range Safety Officer and shooting instructor who will ask adults to help. All Scouts get to shoot Archery and go to the Throwing Range. Cub Scouts get to shoot BB Guns. Webelos get to shoot pellet guns. All equipment is provided. Nature: Located off the main parking lot near the Campfire Circle, the Nature area is all about getting in touch with your wild side! Scouts will learn about the world around them, perform conservation projects, and get to check out all kinds of nature displays. Scouts will have an opportunity to work on Tigers in the Wild, Backyard Jungle (Tigers), Grow Something (Wolves), Fur, Feathers and Ferns (Bears), and Into the Wild (Webelos). Fitness & the BMX Bike Track: This area is about getting up and getting active. Scouts will play games and learn to work as a team. The fitness area includes Camp Mack’s Human Foosball Court, Gaga Pit and Bouldering Wall! Part of a group’s Fitness time will be spent at the BMX Bike Track in the Alley Action Center. BMX Bike riding is a challenging activity on a specially designed track. It is not like riding a bike around your neighborhood. Bikes are provided. Helmets, Elbow Pads, Knee Pads, and Shin Guards are provided and must be worn by all Scouts and Adults riding bikes. Staff will also help Scouts learn to ride if they don’t know how. Scouts will have an opportunity to work on Rolling Tigers (Tigers), Running with the Pack (Wolves), Grin and Bear It (Bears), and Sportsman (Webelos). 39 Camp Craft: Knots, lashings, wilderness survival, and outdoor cooking are the name of the game here. Camp Craft is all about learning traditional Scout skills and how to live in the out-of-doors. Scouts will have an opportunity to work on Tigers in the Wild (Tigers), Call of the Wild (Wolves), Bear Claws (Bears), and Castaway (Webelos). Handicraft: Let loose your creativity at Handicraft! Draw, paint, sculpt, and much more. Theme related crafts and all needed supplies are provided. Scouts will have an opportunity to work on Good Knights (Tigers), Adventures in Coins (Wolves), Make it Move (Bears), and Art Explosion (Webelos). Pool: Cool off during a hot day at the pool! Scouts will get help learning how to swim and play all kinds of water games. Free swim time is also provided through each session. On really hot days, other programs are put on hold and everyone is sent to the pool to cool off. The pool is overseen by a BSA National Camping School certified Aquatics Director and a staff of trained and certified lifeguards. Scouts will have an opportunity to work on Floats and Boats (Tigers), Spirit of the Water (Wolves), Salmon Run (Bears), and Aquanaut (Webelos). Squire Lake: A quick hay wagon ride will take you to Squire Lake where you can boat or fish. Camp Mack has paddle boats, row boats, and canoes available. Fishing is available at certain times. Personal Flotation Devices (PFDs) are provided and must be worn by anyone in a boat. SPECIAL WEBELOS PROGRAMS During our Weeklong Resident sessions, Webelos get to partake in a few special programs just for them: Webelos Outpost: The Webelos Outpost is a special campout just for Webelos. Webelos take their sleeping bag, pillow, and a flashlight on a short hike to a special campsite where they will set up and stay in a primitive shelter, cook their own dinner, and have fun roughing it. Bashore Scout Reservation Field Trip: Webelos IIs will have the opportunity to take a field trip to Bashore Scout Reservation, the Pennsylvania Dutch Council’s Boy Scout Camp and one of the Premier Boy Scout Camps in the region. At Bashore Scout Reservation, Webelos will be given a tour by Bashore Staff members, get to see what the Boy Scouts are up to and what they have to look 40 forward to, and visit the Trading Post for a snack. Webelos IIs and adults will leave Camp Mack after lunch by bus and return before dinner. To participate, Webelos IIs must have a signed permission slip. Adult Cook Off: Are you a good camp cook? Prove it! The camp staff is calling you out! Come prepared to show off your camp cooking skills. In 2017 the Adult Cook Off theme is “MEAT!” (We’re cavemen remember). Winners will be crowned for the best exotic appetizer, main course, and dessert. All equipment and food needed will have to be brought to camp by leaders wishing to participate. Staff will act as the judges in the most democratic form possible: a caucus! Adult vs. Staff Water Polo: The Camp Staff challenges adults to a game of water polo in the pool. This spectacular game generally takes place Wednesday after lunch. Who will win? We shall see!!! STEM Camp STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) Camp is an exciting three day/two night spin on our traditional Cub Scout Resident Camps. Intended for Cubs of any age, STEM Camp will follow the traditional Cub Scout Resident program schedule but activities will focus on STEM related topics and advancement opportunities, including the BSA’s NOVA Award program. Scouts will still get to do all their favorite camp activities including shooting and swimming. OTHER PROGRAM ACTIVITIES/OPPORTUNITIES Siesta and Free Time: A siesta period is provided each day after lunch. There are other free time periods built into the schedule. This is time to kick back and relax, go fishing, work on a Den flag, or practice a skit or song for the campfire. Chapel: A Scout is Reverent! A “Scout’s Own” service will be held in the camp chapel during each camp session. These services are designed to be open to Scouts of all faith traditions. Attendance is not mandatory but encouraged. 41 Camp Wide Games: On your last day in camp, a session of camp wide games will be held. These are fun activities for everyone in camp to participate in at the same time. Campfires: An opening and closing campfire will be held during each session at the Campfire Circle located in the Alley Action Center. The camp staff will put on the opening campfire for your enjoyment. Packs/Dens are encouraged to prepare a skit, song, stunt, cheer, or run-on to present at the closing campfire. We encourage skits, songs, etc. to be themed with the camp theme. All materials must be reviewed with the Camp Program Director and approved before being presented. The camp maintains resources to help a Pack/Den find a skit, song, etc. if needed. In the event of inclement weather, announcements will be made about the location of the campfire. Flag Ceremonies are conducted at the Dining Hall Court Yard each morning and again in the evening prior to mealtime. Units may sign up to serve as honor guards for any of the colors ceremonies. Please see the Program Director for scheduling and instructions. Family / Visitor Night: As a way for parents to get to check out all the fun Scouts are having at camp, we encourage units to take advantage of the Family Night program. Parents have the opportunity to visit Camp Mack, eat a meal with the Pack/Den, and attend the closing campfire where Scouts and their units are recognized for the accomplishments of the week. This program is completely optional and flexible. It is up to the individual unit to promote Family Night. The cost for family night dinner is $8.00 and must be pre-ordered no later than your session check-in time. Camper’s meals are included in their registration fee. SAMPLE DAILY SCHEDULE On the following page is a SAMPLE daily schedule for Weeklong Resident Camp Session. Day Camp, Weekend Resident Resident Camp, and STEM Camp schedules follow a similar format. Day Campers will arrive when scheduled and leave after evening colors (except on Monday). Resident Campers will leave on Monday following the campfire. Schedules are subject to change. Session schedules will be distributed during Check-In. Please keep in mind: For various reasons, schedules may have to be changed. Please help us out and remain Absolutely, Rigidly Flexible! 42 43 FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS Do all adults need to be registered BSA members? No, a parent can come out to fill in for a registered unit leader, as long as at least ONE registered adult is with your Pack at all times. Whether a “registered” unit leader or not, all adults in camp are “leaders” and have responsibilities to help. See the Adult Leadership Requirements and Youth Protection sections of the Adult Guide for more information. What if an adult does not have a medical form? Any stay more than 24 hours on camp property requires a medical form. Parts A & B of the BSA Medical form do not require a doctor’s physical and can be filled out by an adult on site if needed. What is expected of me as a parent coming along with my son? We ask that you help the staff and assist ALL the boys within the campsite. See the Adult Leadership Requirements and Youth Protection sections of the Adult Guide for more information. Do all adults have to take a swim test? Yes, if you would like to get in the pool and go boating, you must take a swim test. This is a National BSA policy and important for everyone’s safety. What do you recommend if a Scout is homesick? Does it happen often? We all miss something about home; a spouse, your own bed, your dog, easy chair and TV, Etc. to what extreme and how we deal with it is key. No one answer fits every scout. Keeping busy, writing a letter, trying something new can all help. Each homesick Scout should help develop an action plan on what they can try to help overcome feeling homesick. Calling home is highly discouraged! Most will overcome feeling down quickly. The Camp Commissioner is available if the youth wishes to talk to someone outside the Pack/Den. The Camp Staff is here to help, so please let us know if we can help! I’m a Scouter, which means I NEED COFFEE! Where is coffee available? Coffee is available for adults, free of charge in the Pavilion. We all work together to make sure coffee is available for everyone. You can feel free to start the coffee anytime. What happens at Outpost? All Arrow of Light Scouts and leaders are invited to join us for outpost. There, they will get their gear (sleeping bag, flashlight) and take a small hike. Once they get to the site the boys will make a tent out of plastic and make their dinner. They will have a campfire and sleep in the tent they made. Can I help my son in the restroom / changing area? No, an adult can’t help their son with this due to BSA policies. Under BSA Youth Protection guidelines no adults are allowed to be with a boy by themselves. Adults are not permitted in youth toilet/shower facilities, nor are youth permitted in adult facilities. Will the boys be working on awards and achievements while at camp? Yes. Scouts will get to work on various Cub Scout achievements and awards while in camp. All boys will be working on getting BB and Archery belt loop since a council camp is the only place they can 44 earn these. They can earn the Summer Time Pack Award as well as other achievements at nature, handicraft, camp craft, campfire, and the pool. What if a Scout has Food Allergies or Special Dietary Needs? Camp Mack does what it can to accommodate individuals with special dietary needs and food allergies if we know about it. If a Scout has a food allergy or special dietary need please make sure a Summer Camp Special Dietary Needs Form is filled out and submitted with the Scout’s Medical Form before camp. This gives us time to prepare. Special Dietary Needs forms will be accepted at Check-In however it may be tough for us to make all needed accommodations. I/Another adult in our group needs a CPAP machine at night. How should we handle this? Electric outlets are available at all latrines. Adults needing CPAP machines are encouraged to bring extension cords to run to their tents. We encourage long extension cords as tents may be a distance from latrines. Many CPAP machines will also run off a car battery. Encourage adults to plan ahead and come prepared. Please let the Camp Staff know if an adult needs an extension cord for a CPAP machine. Some extension cords are available. Can brand new Tiger Cubs come to Camp? Yes. Remember, a boy may become a Tiger Cub as soon as school ends in the spring. They must be registered with the BSA and all Tiger Cubs must be accompanied by an Adult Partner. Day Camp is perfect for brand new Tigers. If you know of a boy who will be joining as a new Tiger Cub and who wants to come to camp include them with your payments. Waiting to sign up for camp until a boy is registered does not allow for the discounted camp fee. What if a boy is not ready to stay overnight? Can they still come to Camp? Yes. We encourage boys in this category to attend Day Camp. They will get much of the same program without the evening programs and overnight stay. What if something changes related to camp? How will we get updates and be informed? Things always change but we will do whatever we can to keep you informed. Prior to Camp ● Follow us on Facebook-We will use Facebook for announcements ● Check the Camp Website- www.padutchbsa.org/camping/mack ● Attend one of the two Pre-Camp Adult Meetings o Saturday, May 13 or Sunday, May 21 o Camp Mack Training Center ● Watch for your Pre-Camp Confirmation Letter During Camp ● Ask any staff member ● Check the Announcements Board in the Dining Pavilion ● Pay Attention During Flag Ceremonies and both Before and After Meals 45
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