What is the purpose of the Boy Scouts of America?
The mission of the Boy Scouts of America is to prepare young people to make ethical and moral choices over their lifetimes by instilling in them the values of the Scout Oath and Law. Scouting’s goals are to:
✤Offer young people responsible fun and adventure;
✤Instill in young people lifetime values and develop in them ethical character;
✤Train young people in citizenship, service, and leadership;
✤Serve America’s communities and families with its quality, values-based program.
Can I join Troop 16 if I’m in elementary school?
(Please see the next question for age requirements). Most local elementary and parish schools have Cub Scouts starting with Tiger Cubs in the 1st Grade (or at age 7) through WEBELOS in the 5th grade (up to age 11).
Please check with your elementary or parish school to see if they have a Cub Scout Pack there; or contact the Cornhusker Council for help in locating a pack in your area.
How old must I be to join Troop 16?
To become a Boy Scout, you must be less than 18 years old AND MEET ONE of the following requirements:
✤Have already completed the 5th grade, OR
✤Be at least 11 years old, OR
✤Have already earned the Arrow of Light Award as a Cub Scout.
Must I first be a Cub Scout to join Troop 16?
Prior Scouting experience is helpful, but all that is necessary is to meet the age requirements in the previous paragraph. New Scouts come to us at all ages and scouting experiences. It doesn’t take long for any Scout who is interested in Scouting to advance rapidly in rank and have a good experience with Troop 16.
What is the history of Troop 16?
South View Christian Church, then Tabernacle, took out a charter to sponsor a Boy Scout Troop on 19 May 1914. Troop 16 has been active since that date, a total of 94 years. This represents the longest consecutive charter in the Cornhusker Council. Troop 16 has a rather unique record in that there have only been eight Scoutmasters since the inception of the Troop. (For more information see our Troop History page)
Can I transfer from another Boy Scout Troop?
Yes, Scouts do transfer into Troop 16 for a variety of reasons, including: address changes, school or activity conflicts, or to participate in our strong activity and advancement programs.
How do I join Troop 16?
Just come to a Troop Meeting (see next question). During your visit, ask for a new member application package.
When and where does Troop 16 meet?
We meet at South View Christian Church, 2040 S 22nd St. Stop by and visit at 7:00 pm on any Tuesday night (first Tuesday is PLC, no Troop meeting). We will be happy to see you.
How is Troop 16 involved with the South View Church?
They graciously make their facilities available to Troop 16 as our Chartered Organization (sponsoring organization). You do not have to be a member of South View Christian Church to join. Scouts come from a variety of denominations, as well as Scouts with no formal religious ties. We do service projects for the church as a way of giving back for the use of the facilities, and some of the Troop participates in the annual Scout Sunday at the church.
How much does it cost?
Our annual membership dues are $30, plus a $25 first year only set up fee.
Membership dues include:
✤Annual Boy Scouts of America Dues
✤Subscription to Boys’ Life Magazine
✤Pro-rata portion of Troop insurance
✤All required and earned patches
✤Official Boy Scout Handbook (new members)
✤Boy Scout neckerchief (new members)
✤Boy Scout shoulder loops (new members)
Additional expenses would be the initial cost of a Boy Scout Uniform, personal camping supplies. Because Troop 16 is such a busy Troop that offers numerous activities, it can initially seem expensive if a scout participates in every offering.
Typically-
Charter fee per year $30.00
Friends of Scouting donation $50.00
Campouts (10 at $10-15) $125.00
Summer Camp $150.00
Other camps/trips $150-400
Troop 16 participates in the Council’s Popcorn sales program, in the Spring and Fall. A portion of the boy’s sales are put into his account for expenses such as long term camping or equipment
What do parents need to do?
We expect the following of parents who have Scouts in Troop 16:
✤Encourage him as he progresses in the advancement program
✤Assist with transportation to outings.
✤Assist leaders with programs.
✤There are other also optional leadership opportunities such as committee positions, Assistant Scoutmasters or serving as a merit badge counselor.
Can I become an Eagle Scout at Troop 16?
Although the Trail to Eagle Scout rank has many steps, it is possible to become an Eagle Scout here at Troop 16 even if you are older when you join.
Does Troop 16 have a Summer Camp program?
Troop 16 traditionally attends a weeklong summer camp at the Camp Cornhusker located in Humboldt NE. Summer camp is typically scheduled during June each year. The Troop committee feels strongly that the first two years in scouting should include the basic building blocks of fun and skills provided by our own Cornhusker Council camp. The older boys may opt for Camp Cornhusker plus a high adventure summer camp, canoe trip, Philmont etc.
Does Troop 16 do anything else beside summer camp?
We have floated and canoed down the Niobrara River, backpacked, bowled, swam, play softball, launched water balloons and rockets, built quinzes, and many other fun activities. We also camp out at a variety of places, and participate in Scout Skills competitions with other Troops in our district at Camporee events held each spring and fall. There are plenty of fun outdoor activities for both younger and older Scouts (see our calendar and our photo albums).
What is the Philosophy of Troop 16?
There are two ways of looking at Boy Scouting. From the boy’s viewpoint it’s a game. It takes him outdoors for camping and hiking, and it gives him a chance to learn new skills and be recognized for them. Boy Scouting also provides plenty of fun with old and new friends.
From the parent’s viewpoint, Boy Scouting is all that and more. It aims to strengthen the boy’s character through precept and example, to make him an aware, participating citizen, and to enhance his physical, mental and moral development. (For more information see our Troop Philosophy page)
What Council does Troop 16 belong to?
Troop 16 is chartered in the Salt Valley District of the Cornhusker Council of the Boy Scouts of America.
Does Troop 16 participate in Order of the Arrow?
Order of the Arrow is an Honor Camping and Service Society, and Troop 16 nominates Scouts for membership in the Golden Sun Lodge #492.
How are your activities determined?
The Troop has patrols and each patrol has a Patrol Leader. Each month, all of the Patrol Leaders meet together with the Senior Patrol Leader, Assistant Senior Patrol Leader and Scoutmaster at a Patrol Leaders Conference (PLC). Each patrol brings ideas to the PLC Meeting and activities are voted upon and planned there. Final approval of activities rests with the Troop Committee, which is composed of Adult Volunteers headed by the Troop Committee Chairperson.
Is Troop 16 active in the community?
Troop 16 participates in various service projects for the community and also for our sponsoring organization as part of our rank advancement program. We also collect and retire worn U.S. Flags.
What is TABTIC?
TABTIC is more accurately expressed as T.A.B.T.I.C. It is an acronym for a short motto that the scouts in the troop invented many years ago, the meaning of which is known to the members of Troop 16 and those around them. It is a statement of attitude and is used to encourage the members of the troop towards renewing their efforts, to meet the ideals of the motto. It is also used as an encouragement when the chips are down.
Who do I contact for more information?
For more information, please contact either: (E-mail or phone)
Scoutmaster: Ron Souliere souliere@gmail.com or 402-770-6087
Troop Committee Chair: Phillip Bade 423-3521
TABTIC 