BOY SCOUT FUND RAISER: Bowling Party 9 March 2013

---------- Forwarded message ----------
From: "J.R. Brockman" <brock.man133@gmail.com>
Date: Feb 16, 2013 7:01 PM
Subject: Bowling Party 9 March 2013
To:
Cc:

Dear Scouts and Parents,

 

We will have a Bowling Party.  A flyer is attached for friends and family.  The other is to return if you Scout is going to attend the party.  Tickets are limited as we only have half the bowling alley.  Please get your tickets as soon as you can.  They will be on sale next week at the Court of Honor.

 

Boy Scout Troop 133

BOWLING PARTY

Saturday March 9, 2013

Time:  5:00 – 7:00 p.m.

Wynnewood Lanes

2228 Haverford Road

Ardmore, PA  19003

 

Ticket Cost: $15.00

 

BOY SCOUTS: Regular Meeting - 16 Febuary

---------- Forwarded message ----------
From: "J.R. Brockman" <brock.man133@gmail.com>
Date: Feb 15, 2013 6:43 PM
Subject: Regular Meeting - 16 Febuary
To:
Cc:

Dear Scouts and Parents,

 

Saturday 16 February will be a regular meeting to start at 1500 hrs (3:00 p.m.).  As noted earlier Mr. Mike Bernard will be a guest speaker talking about Philmont High Adventure Camp.  All parents are invited to attend.

 

Because of the Guest Speaker we anticipate meeting will run over our allotted time.  Additionally, there will be talk in preparation for next week's Court of Honor and any final rank advancement work that will be done.

 

It is anticipated release or meeting end may be no later than 1800 hrs (6:00 p.m.)  Uniform for the day will be Class "A".  If there are any uniform issues that are still pending please send me a note.  For example, please state size and item, e.g., belt, Scout pants, or Scout shirt.  There is no guarantee we can resolve all uniform issues, but we will do what we can to provide assistance. 

 

Additionally, any serviceable uniform items that are too small, etc, we ask that they be donated to be issues to someone who can use the item. Swimming has been postponed until further notice. 

 

As a reminder Scout Sunday us 24 February.  All parents, family and Scouts are invited.

 

 

Yours in Scouting,

 

J.R. Brockman

Scoutmaster

Troop 133

609-381-9981

brock.man133@gmail.com

http://phillyscouts133.blogspot.com/

 

BOY SCOUTS: COURT OF HONOR 23 February

---------- Forwarded message ----------
From: "J.R. Brockman" <brock.man133@gmail.com>
Date: Feb 15, 2013 9:36 PM
Subject: COURT OF HONOR 23 February
To:
Cc:

Hello,

 

As a reminder next Saturday 23 February will be our Court of Honor as noted before, this is an awards program to recognize those Scouts who have earned awards up until now.  Normally, there is food, however to date we have not had a committee come together or appoint a Chairperson for this event to plan a menu.

 

ALL PARENTS ARE REQUESTED TO ATTEND.

 

In addition to being an awards ceremony.  This will also serve as a parents meeting to pass out some critical information particularly related to Summer Camp attendence, our Camp Card campaign, and other upcoming events.

 

The Court of Honor will begin at 1700 hrs (5:00 p.m.) and last approximately 90 minutes. 

 

 

Yours in Scouting,

 

J.R. Brockman

Scoutmaster

Troop 133

609-381-9981

brock.man133@gmail.com

http://phillyscouts133.blogspot.com/

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

BOY SCOUTS: NEED FOR CO-CHAIR PERSON SCOUT COMMITTEE

---------- Forwarded message ----------
From: "J.R. Brockman" <brock.man133@gmail.com>
Date: Feb 15, 2013 9:58 PM
Subject: NEED FOR CO-CHAIR PERSON SCOUT COMMITTEE
To:
Cc:

Dear Parents,

 

The Scout Committee are those individuals who act as the Board of Directors for the Troop.  These are volunteers who act as non-uniform leaders occupy various positions, such as our co-Treasurers Ms. Pearsall and Ms. Haughton, to include Ms. Sandra Anderson who is also acting as our Transportation Chairperson. 

 

Mr. Victor Morrow has moved over to the Troop side from the Cub side as the Troop Committee Chairperson and de facto head of the Parents Committee which all parents belong to.

 

Members of the Scout Committee must complete a BSA Adult Volunteer Application and are registered with the troop along with the leaders.  We must have a minimum number of registered Committee Members to function as a troop and be chartered to include an identified Committee Chairperson.

 

Currently Mr. Morrow has informed me that he will be in and out of the city for the next several months for work and as a result this will limit his activity with the troop.  We need to have a co-Chairperson who can act in as Comittee Chair in his absence, which basically works to organize not only the Scout committee, but also helps organize parents as part of the Parents Committee.

 

If there is someone who would like to volunteer this would be great.  If by chance we have more than one individual we will have to hold elections at the parent's meeting.  Please respond to me right away.  We have some good momentum going thus far and having someone fill in and help in this critical role is important.

 

Thank you,

 

 

Yours in Scouting,

 

J.R. Brockman

Scoutmaster

Troop 133

609-381-9981

brock.man133@gmail.com

http://phillyscouts133.blogspot.com/

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

BOY SCOUTS: Summer Camp Jobs - Resica Falls/ Troop One

---------- Forwarded message ----------
From: "J.R. Brockman" <brock.man133@gmail.com>
Date: Feb 13, 2013 1:18 PM
Subject: Summer Camp Jobs - Resica Falls/ Troop One
To:
Cc:

Dear Parents and Scouts,

 

For all Scouts 14 and older or who will be 14 by June 1 I would like for you to consider being a part of the Camp Staff at Resica Falls.  This is an opportunity to be at camp for the entire summer.  Although you will be working and gaining valuable experience as to what it is to have a full time job and learning to live on your own, you will also have the time for rank advancement and earning merit badges.  There are two opportunities for Camp Staff

• CIT:  Counselor-in-Training positions are non-paid staff positions for Scouts ages 14 to 15 years old
• Counselor:  These positions are regular camp staff positions were you will be paid for Scouts ages 16 and older

To apply go online at http://www.doubleknot.com/survey/2013-camp-staff-application/31114 to submit your application.

 

Do not delay.  I have been given information that interviews will take place Monday 18 February at the Firestone Scout Headquarters Office in Valley Forge.  If you have any questions let me know.

 

Regarding Troop 133 summer camp plans, depending on the staffing level you may get permission to take time off should you want to attend camp with the troop.  However, being on staff is such a great experience that if a choice is to be made I would say stay on staff.

 

TROOP ONE

 

Troop One is a camping experience where Scouts attend camp at Resica Falls, our local Council camp near East Stroudsberg, PA, without their unit.  In other words, the Scout's troop does not go to camp or the Scout misses the opportunity to go to camp when his troop does.  At Troop One the Scout is joined up with other Scouts who are there without their unit, and are formed into a provisional troop lead by an experienced Scout leader who works at the camp.  The Scout is then able to attend camp for a week or multiples of weeks throughout the entire camp season. 

 

Troop One is open to all Scouts and even if a Scout goes to summer camp with us, he could still attend any remaining week at Resica Falls as part of Troop One.  If interested please let me know and I will get an application.  The cost for each week is approximately $350 and there are discounts for additional weeks. Additionally, Campership funding can be used for Troop One since it is at our Council camp.  A campership application is monetary assistance to a Scout that will pay up to 50% of the cost for camp.  You may  submit a campership application for every week of Trocp One that a Scout applies to attend. 

 

One note, Camperships are usually awarded on a first come first serve basis and money is awarded as long as it is there. For example, Week # 7 is usually the first week of August and normally the last week of camp.  If there is any money left for Camperships almost all Campership applications for that week is awarded.  One reminder, for Scouts attending Troop One, transportation to and from camp is the Scouts' family responsibility.  Attached is a campership application and you can consider the weeks of camp starting with the last week of June extending as noted to the first week of August.

 

Yours in Scouting,

 

J.R. Brockman

Scoutmaster

Troop 133

609-381-9981

brock.man133@gmail.com

http://phillyscouts133.blogspot.com/

 

 

 

 

 

BOY SCOUTS: ***ALERT MESSAGE*** Philmont Trip 2013

---------- Forwarded message ----------
From: "J.R. Brockman" <brock.man133@gmail.com>
Date: Feb 12, 2013 12:56 PM
Subject: ***ALERT MESSAGE*** Philmont Trip 2013
To:
Cc:

Dear Scouts and Parents,

 

Over the past several months there has been an attempt to expand the opportunity for high adventure camping to more Scouts in the Triune District.  High adventure camping is reserved for Scouts normally 14 and older and is conducted at such places as the Sea Base Scout Camp in Florida which focuses on scuba diving, sail boating, and other ocean related activities, Northern Tier located in Minnesota that concentrates on wilderness camping and canoing, and Phimont Scout Ranch located in New Mexico which provides an opportunity to do backpacking in the Sierra Mountains. 

 

Each year contingents of Scouts from the Cradle of Liberty go to these camps predominately Philmont which is the best known.  The average cost is approximately $2,000 to include purchasing the right equipment of hiking books, backpack for mountain camping, sleeping bag, and rainwear, all of which combined could add as much as another $500 to the total cost.  There was an effort afoot to bring that cost down to $350.00 via a scholarship program directed to Triune District Scouts which often have faced the obstacle of the high cost. 

 

Recently it was announced the scholarship program would be offered this year and information was sent out to several of Scouts some of who already have expressed interest and were ready to commit.  Unfortunately I have just been informed that these funds will not be available this year.  The opportunity still exist to attend Philmont however it would have to be at the full price.  I am saddened by this news as I was looking forward to those Scouts who were ready to commit to this extraordinary opportunity.

 

I have been trying for more than five years to arrange a trip to Philmont.  Unfortunately I have not succeeded primarily due to the cost and the other logistics such as training and preparation.  For example, participating Scouts at Philmont will hike an average 5 to 8 miles a day for approximately a week with a 35-40 lbs pack.  To be successful you need to have prior conditioning since this will be hiking in high altitude over hilly terrain.  However, this is a fantastic an exciting opportunity that I would like for all of our Scouts to take part in.  The reality is only a small percentage of Scouts will ever go and finances is the biggest obstacle.

 

We have had success in our 'out-of-states' trip such as Alaska, Maine, Florida, and for our plans next year to go to Camp Many Point in Minnesota.  This Saturday Mr. Mike Bernard a representative from the Council will come to our meeting to deliver a presentation on Philmont.  All parents are invited to attend.  There is talk that that scholarships will be available next year and for those Scouts who are now 11 or 12 getting the idea to go Philmont is a great goal to have in front of you.  Additionally, for those 14 years and older just like at regular camp there are staff jobs at Philmont too that you can apply.  Staff jobs will pay you for the time you are there.  You will have to handle your own travel.

 

For those Troop 133 Scouts who were looking towards taking advantage of the opportunity this year to go to Philmont I am very sorry that you have to receive these news if financially you will not be able to attend this year due to cost.  I did offer my input into the discussions of the Philmont Trip and Triune Scouts and had hoped that my recommendations and suggestions would be listen to in order to avoid this type of situation.  My understanding is that the funds were available at some point and then where withdrawn to be used in some other way.  Since this is a Jamboree year, it could be they will used to help Scouts attend that event.  The National Jamboree is only held once every four years and Philmont theoretically is available every year. 

 

I will redouble my efforts as much as possible to ensure our Minnesota trip can go as plan.  As you can see by this, money unfortunately plays a critical role in whether you can or cannot do certain things.  As with all our activities funding is an underlying factor and I wish it did not but that is the reality we must deal with.  What this conveys is that when we have our fundraisers, it is important that we get the full support of everyone because it does make a difference. Or, we need to identify other souces of funding such as grants and donations from others.

 

In the past parents have given me information on potential sources of funding.  However, I cannot do this by myself and this is where parents can make the difference. in researching, contacting, and making applications if there are grants or funds that we may qualify for.  I can certainly provide some guidelines, but I can't do all the work as much as I would like to focus more on finding money to do what we want.   

 

On one final note.  Mr. Mike Bernard has been a tireless advocate for getting more of our youth involved in trips to Philmont.  He is a troop leader with a unit in Hatboro.  While several leaders would not even venture toward engaging with our Scouts or community, Mike has been a true servant leader in focusing on Scouts and attempting to include all Scouts in such activities as high adventure camping. 

 

Thank you,

 

 

Yours in Scouting,

 

J.R. Brockman

Scoutmaster

Troop 133

609-381-9981

brock.man133@gmail.com

http://phillyscouts133.blogspot.com/

 

 

 

 

CUB SCOUTS 2013 Day Camp - Cradle of Liberty Council- Boy Scouts of America

http://www.colbsa.org/daycamp.html

BOY SCOUTS: Cycling Merit Badge

---------- Forwarded message ----------
From: "J.R. Brockman" <brock.man133@gmail.com>
Date: Feb 10, 2013 12:53 PM
Subject: Cycling Merit Badge
To:
Cc:

Dear Scouts and Parents,

 

One of our Scouts is attempting to complete the Cycling Merit Badge.  For all new parents, merit badges is a signfiicant part of the Boy Scout advancement program and is part of the progress towards Eagle Scout.  Cycling is an optional Eagle Requirement merit badge.  Optional in that you either need the Swimming or Hiking merit badge to make Eagle Scout.  This is not an easy merit badge, but it can be fun and a challenge and so I am encouraging other Scouts to consider starting this merit badge.

 

Additionally, the merit badge counselor has requested having more than one Scout to counsel so we need some additional Scouts to join in with our one Scout who will be working towards earning this merit badge.  Even if you do not have a bicyle do not let that stop you.  If you are interested in this merit badge we will work to get one for you.  We have at least two mountain bikes that can be used as loaners providing you are working on the Cycling merit badge.

 

The most difficult part of this badge is completing the required bike trips and for those Scouts who commit themselves to this we will help in making sure we schedule bike trips for them to include having support such as on-call first aid support if required etc.  Our one Scout has already started and we would look to kick off the first class within the next couple of weeks therefore all Scouts who are interested need to respond right away establishing if they do not currently own a bike.  Any parent who is a cyclist and would like to join in on the bike trips is welcome to do so.

 

Listed below are the requirements.  Scouts should review and understand the commitement that is required.  Let me know right away if you are interested and whether you need a bike.

 

Cycling merit badge requirements

Show that you know first aid for injuries or illnesses that could occur while cycling, including hypothermia, heat reactions, frostbite, dehydration, insect stings, tick bites, snakebites, blisters, and hyperventilation. Clean and adjust a bicycle. Prepare it for inspection using a bicycle safety checklist. Be sure the bicycle meets local laws. Show your bicycle to your counselor for inspection. Point out the adjustments or repairs you have made. Do the following: a. Show all points that need oiling regularly. b. Show points that should be checked regularly to make sure the bicycle is safe to ride. c. Show how to adjust brakes, seat level and height, and steering tube. Describe how to brake safely with foot brakes and with hand brakes. Show how to repair a flat. Use an old bicycle tire. Take a road test with your counselor and demonstrate the following: a. Properly mount, pedal, and brake including emergency stops. b. On an urban street with light traffic, properly execute a left turn from the center of the street; also demonstrate an alternate left turn technique used during periods of heavy traffic. c. Properly execute a right turn. d. Demonstrate appropriate actions at a right-turn-only lane when you are continuing straight. e. Show proper curbside and road-edge riding. Show how to safely ride along a row of parked cars. f. Cross railroad tracks properly. Describe your state's traffic laws for bicycles. Compare them with motor-vehicle laws. Know the bicycle-safety guidelines. Avoiding main highways, take two rides of 10 miles each, two rides of 15 miles each, and two rides of 25 miles each. You must make a report of the rides taken. List dates, routes traveled, and interesting things seen.* After fulfilling requirement 8, lay out on a road map a 50-mile trip. Stay away from main highways. Using your map, make this ride in eight hours.

Fwd: The BSA Today - 1 February 2013

---------- Forwarded message ----------
From: "Cradle of Liberty Council" <news@colbsa.org>
Date: Feb 7, 2013 6:06 AM
Subject: The BSA Today - 1 February 2013
To: <jwilson@colbsa.net>
Cc:

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February 1, 2013 Have something to share? E-Mail here. In This Email 2013 Pilgrimage & Encampment 2013 Council Recognition Dinner National Heroism Award National Jamboree Patches Women in Scouting Event Resident Camp News Campmaster Training Council Calendar Workshop Updated Eagle Service Project Workbook In Lincoln's Footsteps Speech Contest Venturing Update Training Corner Health & Safety Tip USA Scouter Tour 2013 Gentleman's Merit Badge Series The Jungle Book - Live on stage Maple Sugaring Event Program Partner Events BSA Discover Card Get Social! Dear Scouter,   The Cradle of Liberty Council is pleased to announce that Nathan Rosenberg will be the keynote speaker at the Council Recognition Dinner on February 21st at the Conshohocken Marriott.  Mr. Rosenberg currently serves as a member of the National BSA Executive Board and is the volunteer chairman of the National BSA Marketing Committee.   As a youth, Mr. Rosenberg was a member of Troop 317 in Plymouth Meeting where he earned the rank of Life Scout, a member of the Delmont Lodge of the Order of the Arrow, and was also an Explorer.  As an adult, he is a recipient of the Silver Buffalo Award, and was the Council President in Orange County, California, prior to joining the National Executive Board.   Mr. Rosenberg is a dynamic public speaker and is looking forward to sharing the exciting initiatives on the horizon for the BSA!   For further details on the 2013 Annual Council Recognition Dinner please see the article below.  Click here to register online for the dinner, and remember, the $5 early bird registration discount ends on Thursday, February 7th.   Yours in Scouting, Dave Bryan Editor      Visit www.colbsa.org often for the latest news on activities, training, and special events.  Don't forget to take a look at the 2012-2013 Program Planning Calendar to help your unit plan fun and exciting activities.       Share your thoughts here.   We need YOUR help to bring the most relevant news about the Cradle of Liberty Council to your inbox.  Any feedback on this newsletter would be greatly appreciated, as would suggestions for material to include in upcoming issues. Please send any feedback or suggestions here. 2013 Pilgrimage & Encampment    February 15th - 17th, 2013 at Valley Forge National Historic Park Join Scouts and Scouters from across the nation as they hike, drive, and fly to the 101st Pilgrimage and Encampment.  The longest running Scouting event in the world, honoring our Revolutionary War soldiers, is hosted right in our backyard at the Valley Forge National Historic Park.  All Venturing Crews and Boy Scout Troops are invited to camp the weekend of February 15th to the 17th at the Encampment.  All Cub Scouts, Boy Scouts and Venturers are invited to attend the Pilgrimage on the 16th. This year's Pilgrimage and Encampment will be honoring the Women Of The Revolutionary War.   The 2013 Pilgrimage & Encampment will be the "Centennial Pilgrimage," the 101st visit by the Boy Scouts to Valley Forge National Historic Park.  Registration is now open for all Cubs, Webelos, Scouts, Venturers, Adult Leaders, Parents, Friends and Family.  For more information and to register, visit http://s.colbsa.org/pe.   2013 Council Annual Recognition Dinner   Come celebrate last year's accomplishments and help us recognize the distinguished service and achievements of some very special area Scouts and Volunteers.  Our keynote speaker will be Nathan Rosenberg, a member of the National BSA Executive Board and volunteer chairman of the National BSA Marketing Committee.  Awards to be presented include:    Silver Beaver Awards to Jeffrey Aster, Jack Coughlin, David Karr, Mark Kenney, Terry Moyer, Ron Pleis, & Alicia Tryon.   Venturing Leadership Award to Shannon Moran.   Heroism Medal & Certificate of Merit to Jonathan Thornton, Troop 32, Conestoga District.  (See article below.)   "Prepared. For Life." Award to Mohammed al-Jumaili, Troop 177, Baden Powell District   When:     Thursday, February 21, 2013 6:30pm Gathering, 7:00pm Dinner   Where:   Conshohocken Marriott (Philadelphia Marriott West) 111 Crawford Avenue West Conshohocken, PA  19428   Click here for the event flyer and to register online .    Upper Darby Boy Scout Receives National Heroism Award   As published in the Delaware County Times on Monday, January 28, 2013   By LINDA REILLY Times Correspondent   UPPER DARBY - The leadership of the Boy Scouts of America presented the prestigious National Heroism Award to a Drexel Hill boy scout Monday night at the Drexel Hill Methodist Church. Jonathan Thornton, 16, a 10th-grader at Upper Darby High School and member of Boy Scout Troop 32 of Drexel Hill, received the medal and ribbon during a brief surprise ceremony. On April 28, 2012, Thornton came to the rescue of his grandmother, Diane Daniels, 71, who suffered a mini-stroke and fell unconscious to the floor of their home. Thornton, who had just learned CPR at a Wilderness First Aid Training class to prepare for a camping trip, performed the medical procedure and saved his grandmother's life. Delaware County Memorial Hospital paramedic Brian Fritz, one of the first responders to the 911 call that day, remembered the incident. "We were dispatched for cardiac arrest," Fritz said. "We found Jonathan kneeling on the floor next to his grandmother. We asked him what happened and he told us he performed CPR because she wasn't breathing but was breathing now. We asked if she had a pulse and he said she did not but she does now. "He was very calm. We didn't see him perform CPR, but he was very quick and concise giving us the information. He did a heck of a job. I'd hate to see what would have happened if he hadn't have helped what the outcome would be." Steve Perrone, of Springfield, a member of the National Board of Boys Scouts of America National Executive Board, presented the Heroism Medal and Certificate of Merit during the special court of honor where Thornton served as pack leader. "Last year, 57,976 scouts achieved the rank of Eagle, but only 155 were awarded the Heroism Medal," Perrone said. According to Perrone, the national council presents four awards to outstanding scouts who have rendered special service to others, including an Honor Medal, Merit Medal, Heroism Medal and Certificate of Merit. "The Heroism Medal is presented to scouts and scouters for saving a life at minimal or less risk than that of the Honor Medal," Perrone said. "In order for a scout or scouter to be honored with such an award, application must be made and subsequently approved by the BSA's National Court of Honor." Scoutmaster Mark Branson said Assistant Scoutmaster Joel Jeffries nominated Thornton for the Heroism Medal. Daniels, who drove her grandson to the scout meeting, said she's "just fine," and hasn't had any other medical problems. "I was very surprised," Thornton said after the presentation. "I feel honored to get it, but anyone else would have done what I did."   National Scout Jamboree Collector Patch Sets Now Available         The 2013 National Scout Jamboree Cradle of Liberty patch sets and the new Unami Lodge Order of the Arrow Jamboree flap are now available for purchase.  Jamboree Scouts please contact your Jamboree Scoutmaster to place an order.  The Standard Set of nine patches sells for $50; the limited edition Stealth Set (only 100 made) sells for $75; and the OA Set sells for $16.  Click on the highlighted links for order forms.  All prices include shipping.     The 2013 CRADLE OF LIBERTY COUNCIL NATIONAL JAMBOREE Council Shoulder Strips are also still available for purchase.  These sell for $10 each and are available for purchase either at the Valley Forge Service Center front desk or from any Scout signed up to attend the jamboree.  All proceeds go toward our local council National Jamboree campership fund.  Upcoming Women in Scouting Event!    Let's Play Outside!   Saturday, April 6, 9 AM - 4 PM $10pp, BYO Lunch @ Camp Hart (Click here for flyer)   One-Day Women in Scouting FUN Event Cradle of Liberty Women in Scouting (COLWIS) was formed to encourage women to get to know each other, to build up Scouting skills and knowledge, and increase the participation of women and Venturing girls in the wide world of opportunities in the BSA.   2013 Summer Resident Scout Camps    Resident Camps in 2013 It's cold out! Is it summer yet? Check out this link for details on the dates Boy and Cub resident camp will be offered in 2013.  Also included are prices and contact information for the summer camping team!     Please note that summer camp at Resica Falls Scout Reservation is filling up quickly.  Weeks 1, 3, & 4 are already filled to capacity and are closed.  Openings still remain for Weeks 2, 5, 6, & 7, but get your reservation in soon to secure your spot.  Please contact our Camping Assistant Tracy Launders with any questions or to make a reservation.   Hot Off the Presses:  Resica Falls Leaders Guide Attention all Boy Scout Leaders!  Take a look at the Resica Falls Leaders Guide! This guide has all of the program and administration details for camp this summer.  Not yet signed up for camp?  Bet this gets you excited to come to Resica.  Call Tracy in the camping department at (484) 654-9213. See you at camp!     Campership Applications Don't forget, to receive a youth campership (camping scholarship) numerous signatures are required.  The Campership Application can be downloaded here.  Don't miss out. Remember, campership money is limited, so apply on time.   2013 Camp Cards - How does 50% commission sound? Attention! Vendors have been finalized for the 2013 Camp Card. Your unit does not need to pay in advance and there is no risk to you or your unit to earn money by selling Camp Cards.  Simply pay for the cards you sell and return any unsold cards at the end of the sale. Check out the vendors list and sale details here.   Camp Card Coaches and Captains Wanted - Help units earn 50% commission! Are you leading YOUR unit with its Camp Card sale?  Can you help OTHER units earn 50% commission on an easy to start (and manage) sale?  Step up to the plate as a Camp Card Captain or Coach!    Cub Pack Camp Promotions - Schedule one now and earn a $50 Gift Certificate to the Camp Trading Post! Want to know more about Summer Camp, but don't know where to look?  Look no further.  We want to come to you!  Request a Pack Camp Promotion... now!  What are you waiting for?  Click the link!     Cub Camp Promotion Presenters - Earn $100 to send YOUR Scout to camp! Have you been to camp and seen the magic of Scouting in action?  Would you consider talking with Cub Leaders and Packs near you about their MANY camping options?  Cub Scouts are begging to go to camp.  Help us spread the magic of Cub Camping!    Resident Camp Staff Application - Share with future staff members in your unit! Have you always wanted to spend your summer at camp, teaching the youth of our great program?  Do you know a Boy Scout or Venturer who would be a great camp counselor?  Apply here... today!    Updates from the Camping Department...     Camp Card Vendor List It's the list you've all been waiting for, the list of vendors on the 2013 Camp Card.  If your unit is interested in earning enough money to send your group to camp for free, read more here.  Don't miss this great (NO RISK) opportunity.   Cub Adventures and Day Camp Registration Online Is your Pack ready to sign up for camp?  Perhaps you're still looking for additional information. Registration is online now for camp!   Shooting Training Are you interested in becoming a BSA Archery Director?  There is an USA Archery Level 1 Basic Instructor Course training available.  Follow directions here to sign up.   Call for Shooting Sports Certifications We are in the process of reviewing the many shooting sports certifications of our Scouters across the Council.  If you have shooting sports qualification from BSA BB range master to NRA Training Counselor, please let us know!  It will take less than 60 seconds of your time!   Campmaster Training - March 21st     Our annual recruitment and training event for anyone interested in joining the ranks of the Council Campmasters is a great night of fellowship and sharing of best practices.  Learn about the opportunities to earn a $100 credit toward future camping events through your service. Click here for more information.   Calendar Planning Workshop    Calling All District Leaders and Council Committee Chairs  Don't miss out on your opportunity to put District and Council events on the 2013-2014 Program Planning Calendar (see colbsa.org/activities for this year's copy). The event will be the morning of February 23, 2013, location TBA. More details to follow!   Updated Eagle Service Project Workbook    The National Advancement Team has issued two new versions of the Eagle Service Project Workbook on the BSA web site.   A new "expandable" version has new functionalities including expandable text boxes and the ability to insert images in JPEG, GIF, TIF, and PNG formats.  The National Advancement Team is interested in receiving comments that may further improve the experience with this version, email comments to the National Advancement Team.   The older "fillable" version has been updated with some minor changes.   Links to both versions of the workbook and other information for the final steps on the Trail to Eagle are available at https://www.colbsa.org/eagle-scouts/life-to-eagle/life-to-eagle-packet.html PA Speech Contest to Mark 150th Anniversary of Lincoln's Gettysburg Address  The In Lincoln's Footsteps contest is open to any high school student who will be in 10th-12th grade during the 2013-14 academic school year and is enrolled in a public, parochial, private, charter or home school within the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.  Students will be asked to submit a 270 word contemporary version of Lincoln's Gettysburg Address focusing on themes such as freedom, bravery, sacrifice, dedication and national purpose.  Submissions will be accepted beginning February 12, 2013 and no later than April 1, 2013. The winner will be part of the official 2013 Dedication Day ceremonies in Gettysburg, Pennsylvania and receive a $5,000 scholarship.   Rules and additional information about the contest is available at www.inlincolnsfootsteps.com. Venturing Update   Please mark your calendars for another great Venturing year to come!    Saturday, February 23 - Venturing Leader Specific Training - Aldan Union Church, Aldan, Delaware County   And of course...please hold the weekend of April 26-28, 2013 for another exciting Venturing Weekend at Camp Hart!   Training Corner - Every Scout Deserves a Trained Leader!       BALOO - Cub Scout Basic Adult Leader Outdoor Orientation  April 13, 2013 at Drexel Lodge Park, Newtown Square.  Contact Paul Heiney for more information. June 8, 2013 at Nelson Training Center, Musser Scout Reservation.  Contact Bill Forbes for more info. September 22, 2013, location TBD.  Contact Mark Kenney for more info.  Bullying Prevention - May 8, 2013 at Trinity Lutheran Church.  Contact Bill Forbes for more info.    Chemical Fuel Safety - April 10, 2013 at Trinity Lutheran Church.  Contact Bill Forbes for more info.    Cub Scout Leader Specific Training - March 2, 2013, location TBD.  Contact Mark Kenney for more info. October 5, 2013, location TBD.  Contact Mark Kenney for more info. October 19, 2013, location TBD.  Contact Marty O'Connor for more info.  Den Chief Training - August 24, 2013, location TBD.  Contact Bill Forbes for more info.    Den Leader Specific Training - November 13, 2013 at Trinity Lutheran Church.  Contact Bill Forbes for more info.     District Committee Workshop - November 2, 2013, location TBD.  Contact Bill Forbes for more info.     IOLS - Scoutmaster/Assistant Scoutmaster Introduction to Outdoor Leadership Skills March 15-17, 2013 at Nelson Training Center, Musser Scout Reservation.  Contact Paul Heiney for more info. April 26-28, 2013 at Nelson Training Center, Musser Scout Reservation.  Contact Mike Matusheski for more info. October 26-27, 2013 at Nelson Training Center, Musser Scout Reservation.  Contact Jim Foster for more info.  Leave No Trace - May 17-19, 2013 at Nelson Training Center, Musser Scout Reservation.  Contact Jack Munera for more info. September 13-15, 2013 at Nelson Training Center, Musser Scout Reservation.  Contact Jack Munera for more info. National Youth Leadership Training 2013- June 23-28, August 11-16, September 27-29 & October 4-6.  Click here for more information. OWL - Outdoor Webelos Leader Skills Training April 20, 2013 at Nelson Training Center, Musser Scout Reservation.  Contact Bill Forbes for more info. October 26, 2013 at Nelson Training Center, Musser Scout Reservation.  Contact Jim Foster for more info.  OWL/BALOO - October 19-20, 2013 at Nelson Training Center, Musser Scout Reservation.  Contact Mike Matusheski for more info.    Pack Committee Training - September 13, 2013 at Trinity Lutheran Church.  Contact Bill Forbes for more info.     Philmont Training Center 2013 The conferences at Philmont Training Center (PTC) are conducted each summer and fall by the various departments and committees of the National Council.  The beauty of Philmont and the outstanding program offered to family members make a PTC conference a tremendous atmosphere for learning, sharing, fellowship, family togetherness, and Scouting spirit.  Volunteers who attend return better trained and further motivated to serve their local Scouting programs.  For a full list of 2013 conferences, visit www.philmonttrainingcenter.org.  To register, visit www.myscouting.org  and click on "Event Registration."    Scoutmaster/Assistant Scoutmaster Specific Training - February 16, 2013 at Aldan Union Church.  Contact Jim Foster for more info. March 2, 2013, location TBD.  Contact Mark Kenney for more info. March 16, 2013, location TBD.  Contact Marty O'Connor for more info. May 11, 2013 at Aldan Union Church.  Contact Jim Foster for more info. June 15, 2013 at Troop 84 Cabin.  Contact Bill Forbes for more info. September 28, 2013, location TBD.  Contact Paul Heiney for more info. October 5, 2013, location TBD.  Contact Mark Kenney for more info. October 5, 2013 at Aldan Union Church.  Contact Jim Foster for more info. October 19, 2013, location TBD.  Contact Marty O'Connor for more info.  Trainer's EDGE February 23, 2013 at the Firestone (Valley Forge) Service Center.  Contact Bill Robinson for more information. May 19, 2013 at the Firestone (Valley Forge) Service Center.  Contact Robin Mazzanobile for more info.  This is Scouting - March 2, 2013, location TBD.  Contact Mark Kenney for more info. October 5, 2013, location TBD.  Contact Mark Kenney for more info. Tiger Den Leader Training - October 9, 2013 at Trinity Lutheran Church.  Contact Bill Forbes for more info.    Troop Committee Challenge - March 13, 2013 at Trinity Lutheran Church.  Contact Bill Forbes for more info. University of Scouting - Save the date:  November 2, 2013.   UTC Training - February 13, 2013 at Trinity Lutheran Church.  Contact Bill Forbes for more info. Venturing Leader Specific Training - February 23, 2013 at Aldan Union Church.  Contact Jim Foster for more info. March 2, 2103 at the Firestone (Valley Forge) Service Center.  Contact Janet Hunter for more info.  Wilderness First Aid - March 2-3, 2013 at the Firestone (Valley Forge) Service Center.  Contact John Schultz for more info. March 9-10, 2013 in Flemington, NJ.  See https://sites.google.com/site/crew6194 for more info. Wood Badge 2013 - September 7-9 and October 12-14.  It's never too early to start thinking about Wood Badge!  Registration will be online soon, including the option of making monthly payments.  Click here for a flyer with more information.   Youth Protection Training - March 2, 2013, location TBD.  Contact Mark Kenney for more info. October 5, 2013, location TBD.  Contact Mark Kenney for more info. November 12, 2013 at Aldan Union Church.  Contact Jim Foster for more info.   Youth Protection Training for Venturing - February 23, 2013 at Aldan Union Church.  Contact Jim Foster for more info.      Mandatory Training Update: Scoutmaster/Assistant Scoutmaster Specific Training - Now required for all Scoutmasters, and by the end of 2013 for all Assistant Scoutmasters. All Unit Committee Chairs are to be fully trained by the end of 2012. Venturing Committee Chairs are exempt from position-specific training because the training will not be available until 2013. Health & Safety Tip of the Week:  Winter Sports & Helmets     BSA Requires Helmets for Skiing and Snowboarding Appropriate personal protective equipment is required for all activities.  The use of helmets is required for the following activities:  downhill skiing, snowboarding and operating snowmobiles (requires full face helmets).  Helmets are recommended for all participants engaged in other winter sports, such as sledding and riding

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