There are a number of things to make sure you have prepared and done prior to your participation in this merit badge session. Per the merit badge counselor's requirements all Scouts "must come with an attitude on Safety" This is a very serious class that there is no tolerance of goofing around or lack of attention. Safety is of the utmost importance and there is No tolerance for actions that potentially could jeopardize anyone's safety. It must be understood that Any misconduct during this merit… Show more badge session will result in the dismissal of the Scout from the session and require a parent or guardian to immediately come and pick their Scout up.
We are certain this will not be an issue however it is still necessary for us to make both Scouts and parents aware of this. Parents are welcome (as with any merit badge session) to sit in and observe the class, however a waiver form must also be submitted for any observers staying within the facility.
Make sure that you bring the following items with you or you will be unable to particpate. No exceptions!
Properly completed Blue Card.
If you don't have a blue card you can get one from your Scoutmaster. Make sure you fill all components of the blue card out completely and properly. Once you have that done, make sure that your Scoutmaster signs off on the blue card giving you permission to work on this merit badge.
Completed Waiver Form Scoutmaster Bucky Vertical Endeavors Waiver Form (click here)
ANYONE planning to climb or observe must fill out a waiver form. Scouts participating in the class must have a legal guardian or parent sign and initial on the waiver form. Adults or youth planning to attend and simply observe must also provide a waiver form. This is required by Vertical Endeavors.
ANYONE Without A Completed Waiver Form Will Not Be Allowed To Enter The Facilities and/or Climbing AREA.
Please forward your completed Waiver Form ahead of time either to ScotmasterBucky@yahoo.com or fax it to 612-871-7150 This advanced preapredness will allow for quicker check in and more time on the climbing walls for everyone.
If you have any questions please call Scoutmaster Bucky (Brian Reiners - registered and trained Northern Star Council Scouting Volunteer) at 612-483-0665
Some notes for the day of the event.
Your Scout Uniform is required for this Merit Badge session as the opening ceremony and class room aspect you should be in Scout Uniform. However, for the actual climbing you may choose to have Class B (Scout T-shirt or Troop T-shirt) for more comfort.
Tennis Shoes are the only acceptable shoes for climbing otherwise climbing shoes may be rented for an additional fee at Vertical Endeavors on the day of the event. (Climbing Shoes rental is Not included in the registration fee and Scouts should bring extra money if they feel they may want to rent these on the day of the event - approximately $4.00 to $5.00 per pair)
Preparation for the Event
The Boy Scout Merit Badge book is required by the Vertical Endeavors Staff when you come. You can get a copy of this from the local Scout Store, or check your Troops Library and check out the Merit Badge Pamphlet . You Must read this prior to the class if you plan on earning your merit badge the day of the event.
There will be a test at the end of the session that will test the Scout's knowledge.. The test will cover all the requirements that are not tested through physical demonstration in the session. If you are unable to perform the physical skills to the satisfaction of the Merit Badge Counselor and/or you are unable to pass the knowledge test, you will Not complete the Merit Badge. If you Are able to complete the physical and knowledge requirements, you Will earn the merit badge on the day of the event. You will only be signed off on the requirements that you satisfy the requirement for, per the merit badge counselors discretion.
As always, remember that you will get out of this what you put into it. A Boy Scout is prepared and with preparation comes reward. Also remember, every attempt will be made to assist boys to complete as much of the merit badge on this day as possible. Some physical skills are necessary to complete this badge and must be able to be demonstrated successfully in order to be signed off on the requirement. All Scouts will have a superb opportunity to completed this merit badge on the day of the event.
Please review the Requirements for the Climbing Badge and also review the Bsa Climb on Safely Guidelines .
It's a lot of stuff, but all this information will make for a fun, easy, merit badge earning day. Any questions please email ( ScoutmasterBucky@yahoo.com ) or call Scoutmaster Bucky (Brian Reiners - Troop 042 Scoutmaster - Metro Lakes District - Northern Star Council) at 612-483-0665
We look forward to seeing you there.
Scoutmaster Bucky
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