From National (Texas)

Starting at 11am

All families are welcome! This National Camp-In is free and open to all families — even families not currently involved in Scouting. So invite your friends, neighbors, and colleagues to join the fun on Saturday, May 2!

Join Us for a Day Full of Adventure!
Whether in your backyard or in your living room, join families across the country in streaming and participating in the National Camp-In live on Facebook.

From camp-style cooking and friendly competitions, to special guests and campfire singalongs, this virtual event will bring the best parts of Scouting to life!
What’s Going on at the Camp-In?
A full schedule will be available soon, but here are some of the exciting activities you can look forward to:
  • National Good Turn Virtual 5K benefiting Feeding America with warmups led by Paralympic gold medalist David Blair
  • Q&A session with Steve Wozniak, co-founder of Apple Inc.
  • Easy camp-style recipes you can make indoors or out
  • Moviemaking Merit Badge components and a live Q&A with Hollywood Director/Producer Francis Lawrence, Costume Supervisor Jessica Pazdernik, and Producer Shannon McIntosh
  • Camping hacks from adventure pros
There was a lot of great discussion on virtual meetings, virtual camp outs and adjustments to requirements that recently came down from BSA National at the April Round Table Meeting.  
 
Our next Virtual Round Table will be held on Thursday, May 14 at 7pm.  We will start out with a joint session to get things going and to check in on how units are doing in the new “Virtual Meeting” world.  We will then have a separate breakout meeting for Cub Scout Leaders as well as Scouts BSA leaders.  The link for the joint meeting is below
 
https://meet.google.com/fqe-kthu-piq
 
The Cub Scout breakout link will be posted during the meeting.
 
Here is a link to a folder that contains the PowerPoint presentation, notes from the April meeting and a suggestion for activities for your units.
 
https://bit.ly/2XMT9zB
 
Thanks for all that you do,
–Phil Dennis (Seneca District Boy Scout Round Table Commissioner)

Are you ready for the next NCAC adventure? Then join in the NCAC Virtual Scavenger Hunt. It’s easy! Just print the picture, color it and put it in your window! If you see this picture in your neighborhood take a picture, post it below and #hashtag your district! If you don’t see any no worries, you can post your own!

The district with the most posts wins! So tell all your friends to join in on all the fun! The Virtual Scavenger Hunt starts right now and ends on Friday at 1pm!

#myNCAC #VirtualScavengerHunt #ScoutingatHome #socialdistancing

All –
 
Any unit or patrol/den that would like to jump in here, please contact Aaron at NCAC  aaron.chusid@scouting.org or our District Executive Ben ben.litten@scouting.org
 
This looks like fun and several of you already have Zoom campfire experience.
 
YIDS
 
Commish
 
 
Aaron Chusid
Virtual Campfire! We’re planning a virtual campfire for May 5, and we are recruiting acts! More info will be coming next week, but please reach out through your districts and OA chapters to find Scouts who want to lead a song, tell a joke, share a skit, or bring their other campfire magic to our Council!

Virtual Campfire! We’re planning a virtual campfire for May 5, and we are recruiting acts! More info will be coming next week, but please reach out through your districts and OA chapters to find Scouts who want to lead a song, tell a joke, share a skit, or bring their other campfire magic to our Council!

I’ve had numerous requests to put out a Cub Scout specific release with what we’ve received to date.

How does this work?  You share with us, and we will quickly review your idea to ensure it meets current guidelines, then send it out to your fellow commissioners as an option they can share with others.  Please forward your contributions to bfoverbey76@gmail.com 

See you on the high ground!   Ben Overbey, ACC for Montgomery Service Area

CUBS ONLY EDITION

 How to do Scouting in the Time of COVID-19

  1. Dan Beard Council Video Series:  Scouting at Home   https://www.danbeard.org/scouting-at-home/ (submitted by Rick Rogers, Council Commissioner)
    More than half of these ideas are directed at Cub Scout units.
  1. BSA just released a year’s worth of Boys Life issues for free through the app store  (for a limited time): https://boyslife.org/subscribe-now/free-access/?fbclid=IwAR0dINKjHZuDNCOSYkevE8T61CIeV8c9RvPHG_f9XjPD_mC74LQnOUpTneA (From Pack 250)
  1. Resources Recommended by Jim Lehman:

https://www.facebook.com/groups/cubscoutvolunteers/ 

  1. A Compilation of what is going on in other councils throughout the country, forwarded by Michael McKinney, ACC: https://247scouting.com/web/BSA218/attachment/document_15850890260_2763.pdf
    1. 30-Day Challenge Hawkeye Area Council, Cedar Rapids, Iowa As communities are practicing caution and social distancing, the Hawkeye Area Council developed a 30-Day Challenge for each Cub Scout rank. Use this at home to help keep Scout’s skills sharp. https://hawkeyebsa.org/30-day-challenge/
    2. Advancement Academy: Virtual Resources for Keeping Scouts Advancing, Connected & Having Fun Cascade Pacific Council, Portland, Oregon:  Can’t get together as a group? Visit the Advancement Academy for a digital den meeting or merit badge class. Digital den meetings are offered through Zoom and promoted through Facebook. Participants are asked to sign up in advance. There is also great content for Scouts BSA, including sessions on How to Run Successful Digital Scout Meetings as well as online Merit badge sessions on Coin Collecting, Personal Fitness and more. The site also includes Facebook groups that anyone in the country can join: Cub Scout and Scouts BSA. https://www.cpcbsa.org/advancement-academy
    3. Scouting at Home Atlanta Area Council, Atlanta, Georgia:   If you’re looking for a comprehensive list of things that Cub Scouts and Scouts BSA can do to Scout at home, this is it. The page features content directly from Scoutbook and includes ideas of other activities Scouts can do. Plus, suggestions for video platforms – and of course, reminders about the importance of following youth protection standards. https://www.atlantabsa.org/scoutingathome
  1. John Wiltenmuth recommends:  https://www.facebook.com/groups/boyscoutvolunteers/?ref=group_header
  1. Leader Training from the NCAC Training Committee:
  1. Cub Scout Leader Basic Training

Cub Scout leaders are considered trained and eligible to wear the official Trained emblem once they have completed:

  1. Youth Protection Training Online at my.scouting.org, and
    2. Leader Specific Training for their position:
  1. Hazardous Weather Training Online at my.scouting.org
  1. From Robert Owen (AKA Scouter Bob):

Cub Adventures that can be done at home, with links to the handbook requirements. Might be worthy of including in your next compilation.

https://www.southfultonscouting.com/node/4302?fbclid=IwAR2kB97SmudzCjE-_sWGaEADerIoKeaECfLsSxJ4N0WotUtasw4s7SlGSiw

  1. Pack 457 is Continuing to Meet! (forwarded by Mike Holder, DC for White Oak District)

25 Apr (time TBD) – Webelos II Crossover Ceremony: Pack leadership will host a ZOOM video conference for the Pack to participate in, and observe, a virtual Crossover Ceremony for the Webelos II Den that is transitioning to Boy Scouts. This is a very important event for them and it is important for us to celebrate their achievement. Once it is safe to do so, we will absolutely have an in-person ceremony for the boys. Zoom links will be distributed as we get closer.

 

24-26 April Spring Campout…is now a Pack 457 BACKYARD campout from 25-26 Apr! Pitch your tents in your backyard, set up chairs, light up the grill, and start whittling, playing games, practicing knots…having fun! We will do this in conjunction with the Webelos II Crossover Ceremony above. Following the ceremony, I will give everyone a chance to say hello and share campsites virtually! The ceremony/discussion afterwards is the only formal part of the weekend. No other requirements other than for you and your families to get outside and have some fun! Zoom links will be distributed as we get closer.

 

  1. Youth Protection Training for Adults and for Youth (Dr. Rick Manteuffel, ACC NCAC):

Take this time at home to review youth protection!

  1. The Protect Yourself Rules Preview Adventure

For Cub Scouts at all levels: https://www.scouting.org/programs/cub-scouts/preview-adventures/protect-yourself-rules/

The Protect Yourself Rules Preview Adventures may be used as an elective adventure OR they may be earned in place of the Cyber Chip requirement for the Tiger, Wolf, Bear, Webelos, and Arrow of Light badges of rank.  If used in place of the Cyber Chip requirement for a rank, it may not be used as an elective adventure for that rank.

  1. How to Protect Your Children From Child Abuse: A Parent’s Guide

These booklets are a basic resource to help parents understand how child abuse happens and keep their children safe. Exercises for parents and children are included. Several versions of the booklets are available:

For Cub Scouts and their parents

https://filestore.scouting.org/filestore/pdf/100-014_WEB.pdf

For Cub Scouts and their parents (in Spanish)

https://filestore.scouting.org/filestore/pdf/100-073.pdf

For Scouts BSA members and their parents PDF icon

https://filestore.scouting.org/filestore/pdf/100-015(18).pdf

For Scouts BSA members and their parents (in Spanish) PDF icon

https://filestore.scouting.org/filestore/pdf/100-016_web.pdf

For STEM Scouts and their parents PDF icon

https://filestore.scouting.org/filestore/pdf/STEM_Guide.pdf

  1. Cyber Chip

To help families and volunteers keep youth safe while online, the BSA introduces the Cyber Chip The Scouting portal showcasing Cyber Chip resources includes grade-specific videos for each level.  https://www.scouting.org/training/youth-protection/cyber-chip/

  1. Bullying Awareness

These fact sheets will help with bullying awareness and direct you to resources provided by the BSA and other entities we work with to protect children.

https://www.scouting.org/training/youth-protection/bullying/

 

  1. Updates to COVID-19 FAQS as of April 13 (changes only, find the complete FAQS at):

https://www.scouting.org/coronavirus/covid-19-faq/?utm_source=scoutingwire&utm_campaign=swvolunteer4152020&utm_medium=email&utm_content=A

  1. Advancement — Cub Scouts

Q: Can the Arrow of Light (fifth-grade dens) requirements fulfill the requirement to visit a troop or attend a troop outing to function as a patrol?

A:  Yes Two things to keep in mind, the standard of completion for Cub Scout advancement is “Do Your Best,” so given the circumstances, we want to look at the purpose behind the requirements. Remember that doing nothing is never doing your best.

Dens can visit a virtual troop meeting to see the patrol method and youth leadership in action Since the den cannot attend a troop campout or outing, the idea is for the den to function as a patrol while attending the virtual troop meeting. During this time, a virtual den meeting where the den functions as a patrol can be done. Elect a patrol leader, pick a patrol name, play a virtual game together as a patrol. Plenty of opportunities to Do Your Best to meet the intention of the requirement. Remember to maintain all youth protection standards online.

 

Opportunities to Serve

 

  1. Organizations seek volunteers    https://wtop.com/coronavirus/2020/03/as-coronavirus-spreads-virginia-organizations-seek-volunteers/   (submitted by Rick Rogers, Council Commissioner)
  2. Scouting Service from Home  https://blog.scoutingmagazine.org/2020/03/18/good-turns-during-the-coronavirus-acts-of-scouting-service-you-can-do-from-home/?utm_source=scoutingwire&utm_campaign=swvolunteer3202020&utm_medium=email&utm_content=
    1. Send a ‘thinking of you’ video or email to a local nursing home — or give them a call
  1. The first step would be to contact the facility to figure out the logistics of sending these messages.
  2. “Those folks can no longer receive visitors and would feel forgotten,” says Maceo Felton, a volunteer from the Coastal Georgia Council. “Wouldn’t this be a great way to let these elderly people know that Scouts are thinking about them?”

                                                           iii.      You could make a handmade card and take a photo of it, share a video greeting or simply pick up the phone and give them a call.

  1. To ensure you’re following Youth Protection guidelines, have your Scouts copy an adult on all email communications. For phone calls, make sure you’re in the room with the Scout.
    1. Help with grocery pick-up/delivery
  1. As long as it’s safe to do so, and a parent or guardian is present, Scouts could offer to pick up and deliver groceries for those who are unable to leave their homes.
  2. They should practice social distancing — remaining 6 feet away from others — and thoroughly wash their hands before and after performing this act of service.
    1. Send a thank-you message to a local hospital
  1. ER doctors, nurses and other critical care professionals can’t work remotely.
  2. Let’s make sure they’re thanked for their hard work. Scouts can send electronic messages to these hard-working heroes. Again, be sure to find a nonemergency contact at the hospital before sending a message. We don’t want to overwhelm these facilities with calls.

                                                           iii.      While officials say the coronavirus doesn’t survive long on objects, it’s better to be safe than sorry. So electronic messages are best at this time.

    1. Contact your local food bank
  1. With schools closed, many families that relied on schools to provide food for their children are left missing out.
  2. Find your local food bank and see what help they might need. If you can assist in a way that’s safe, please do.
    1. Call your loved ones
  1. Call, FaceTime or Skype your loved ones — especially those who are older and may not be leaving their houses. Ask about their childhood, their first car, where they grew up.
  2. Did they have electricity? Running water?
  1. Troop 33 Virtual Food Drive (recommended by Dr. Rick Manteuffel, ACC):

Troop 33 has set a goal of donating 5,000 food items to the Capital Area Food Bank to help provide meals to vulnerable community members during the COVID-19 emergency.   Scouts are encouraged to share the message with family and friends, who can participate.  The beneficiary is the Capital Area Food Bank.  The event page is https://yougivegoods.com/troop33-cafb

 

Interesting Stuff

 

  1. Bear Grylls teams up with Scouts for indoor survival activities  https://news.google.com/s/CBIwxomVnEU?r=12&oc=em
    1. Dear Future Me – write a postcard to yourself

The game leader should give everyone a postcard and ideas for how far in the future they’d like to send their postcard. The players write or draw a note to their future self. Grownups can help with scribing or spelling.

    1. Storm in a teacup

Make a tornado in a jar using water, sand and a drop of washing-up liquid. “Watch your storm brew, swirl and dissipate,” advise the Scouts.

    1. Fabulous fancy frames

Create a frame for a photograph that makes you smile then make a gallery for everyone to admire. Decorate the border of the frame with pens, stamps, stickers and other photos you have taken.

    1. Mark my words – make a bookmark

“This activity is a chance to get creative, but it also reminds everyone how to look after books,” the Scouts say. “Bookmarks help people remember where they’ve got to without damaging the book. What other materials could bookmarks be made from?”

    1. Weekly wins – make diaries to record weekly achievements

“Every time the diary owner does something nice or something good happens, they should make a note of it,” say the Scouts. “Each week the group should gather and each person should say as much or as little as they like about how many or how few wins they had that week.”

    1. Changing your coat – make a heraldic coat of arms

Look at an existing coat of arms and choose different colours and animals to design your own shield. Decide what you want the shield to say about you.

 

 

  1. Dear Scouting Families:

I know we are all overwhelmed with the news surrounding COVID-19, the daily changes to our lives, and keeping our families healthy. Without a doubt, many of us are feeling anxious as we navigate the uncertainty of the weeks ahead; I want you to know, NCAC is feeling it too. What we do know is that Scouting can play a vital role in helping Scouts and their families feel less impact from social distancing.

We have been working to identify and encourage opportunities for Scouts to continue meeting with their units virtually, learn new skills, earn merit badges and advancements, and – most importantly – to do their part in giving back to their communities. I wanted to share with you some resources we’ve gathered that you might find helpful while planning activities at home for your families and staying up-to-date with Scouting during this pandemic. 

Resources:

We are also planning a council-wide service project, and reviewing options to find one that keeps our Scouts safe while doing their Duty to Others.

I have been amazed at the positive attitude of our Scouts and volunteers and how proactive our community has been about helping each other and their neighbors through these turbulent circumstances. In difficult times, kindness and acts of service matter more than ever. If you know a Scout that is making a difference supporting or comforting other people, please reach out to scoutstories@ncacbsa.org and tell us about them. At a time when much of our news is discomforting, my hope is to share stories of these inspirational acts of kindness facilitated by local Scouts. 

The strength and support of NCAC’s Scouting families, alumni, volunteers, and supporters encourages us to keep pursuing and focusing on our essential mission. Scouts are our future leaders and change-makers. They will undoubtedly face challenges in their future. We promise to do our part to make sure they are Prepared. For Life.

Thanks for all you do to ensure Scouting continues!

Yours in Scouting,

Craig Poland

 

  1. Check out NCAC’s Scouting at Home web page!
    https://weownadventure.com/category/scouting-at-home/

 

You will find updated NCAC guidance as well as examples of what units are doing around the Council.

 

  1. Story Tapestries, (recommended by Stephen Donnelly, White Oak DE):

Starting Monday, April 6 and continuing through the Spring, children, and adults in our region can enjoy a variety of arts-integrated classes from the Story Tapestries network of Teaching Artists and Master Educators. Programs weave the power of creative writing, spoken word, hip-hop, parody, dance, theatre, visual arts, and storytelling together with various school subjects to inspire learning and keep you and your family engaged.  To see our Virtual Course offerings, please visit our website https://storytapestries.org/resources/virtual-arts-integration-courses-by-story-tapestries/

  1. Take your kids on a #TrekAt2 without leaving your house (from Bryan on Scouting):

Every weekday at 2 p.m. Central, Boys’ Life editors are jumping on Facebook Live to share treks, jokes and mind-bending facts that will take your kids on a journey all over the world – and even to space!

    • Set a reminder on your phone. Every weekday a few minutes before 2 p.m. Central (that’s 3 p.m. Eastern, 12 p.m. Pacific), gather your kids or family unit around your phone, tablet or computer.
    • Head to go.boyslifeorg/fblive
    • Get ready for the Boys’ Life Facebook page to go live so you and the fam can enjoy an adventure from inside your home.
    • Comment along and share family-friendly jokes. Our hosts are reading your comments in real-time and would love to give you a shout out!

 

 

STEM Corner

  1. BSA just launched a new “Scouting at Home” page at https://www.scouting.org/scoutingathome/ 

    A one stop page of resources to help both parents and leaders support Scouting at home, with stay-at-home activities for any Scout rank, and tips for continuing to work on advancement.  Check out the STEM activities available through this page.

 

  1. Cub Scout Pack 493 Suggests:
  1. K5 Learning offers free Coronavirus worksheets for children to help them understand the virus.
    https://www.k5learning.com/free-worksheets-for-kids/coronavirus
  2. NASA Langley Research Center Virtual Tour – https://oh.larc.nasa.gov/oh/
  3. San Francisco’s De Young Museum – https://artsandculture.google.com/search/exhibit?p=de-young-museum
  4. National Women’s History Museum – https://www.womenshistory.org/womens-history/online-exhibits
  5. Detroit Institute of Arts – https://artsandculture.google.com/partner/detroit-institute-of-arts?hl=en
  6. National (Baltimore) Aquarium (In Baltimore) – https://aqua.org/media/virtualtours/baltimore/index.html
  7. San Diego Zoo – https://kids.sandiegozoo.org/videos
  8. Yosemite National Park – https://www.virtualyosemite.org/about-virtual-yosemite/
  9. Louvre – https://www.louvre.fr/en/visites-en-ligne#tabs
  10. London’s National Gallery – https://www.nationalgallery.org.uk/visiting/virtual-tours
  11. Swiss Alps – http://panorama.myswitzerland.com/mt-rigi
  12. Great Wall of China – https://www.thechinaguidecom/destination/great-wall-of-china
  13. https://naturalhistory.si.edu/visit/virtual-tour
  14. https://artsandculture.google.com/partner/solomon-r-guggenheim-museum?hl=en
  15. https://artsandculture.google.com/partner/the-j-paul-getty-museum?hl=en
  16. https://www.nps.gov/yell/learn/photosmultimedia/virtualtours.htm
  17. http://www.museivaticaniva/content/museivaticani/en/collezioni/musei/tour-virtuali-elenco.html
  18. https://www.museothyssen.org/en/thyssenmultimedia
  19. https://artsandculture.google.com/streetview/rijksmuseum/iwH5aYGoPwSf7g?hl=en&sv_lng=4.885283712508563&sv_lat=52.35984312584405&sv_h=311.1699875145569&sv_p=-5.924133903625474&sv_pid=fOVcUXQW2wpRf33iUmxEfg&sv_z=1
  20. https://artsandculture.google.com/partner/national-museum-of-modern-and-contemporary-art-korea?hl=en
  21. https://www.nationalmuseum.af.mil/Visit/Virtual-Tour/
  22. https://artsandculture.google.com/partner/parco-archeologico-e-paesaggistico-valle-dei-templi?hl=en
  23. https://artsandculture.google.com/exhibit/sophie-taeuber-arp/swKioHNhYqZoLw?hl=en
  24. https://artsandculture.google.com/asset/the-national-museum-of-anthropology-mexico-city-ziko-van-dijk-wikimedia-commons/bAGSHRdlzSRcdQ?hl=en
  1. The Nature Conservancy offers:
  1. Nature Lab Resources for all grade levels
    https://www.nature.org/en-us/about-us/who-we-are/how-we-work/youth-engagement/nature-lab/
  2. Virtual Field Trips
    https://www.nature.org/en-us/about-us/who-we-are/how-we-work/youth-engagement/nature-lab/virtual-field-trips/
  3. The Secret Life of Corals
  4. Borneo: The Symphony of the Rainforest

                    iii.      View from a Canoe: A Coastal Temperate Rainforest

  1. Wild Biomes: America’s Rainforests and Deserts
  2. The Coral Reefs of Palau
  3. China’s Great Forests

                   vii.      Powering the Planet: Renewable Energy

                 viii.      Journey of Water: Colombia’s Páramo

  1. Coastal Peru: A Coastal Ecosysystem
  2. The National Wildlife Federation offers Free Access to Ranger Rick Activities (Cub Scout Age)
    https://rangerrick.org/
  3. Tired of Learning?  Take a virtual spring break with Disney World.  Ride the rides and see the sights
    https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCYyJUEtYv-ZW7BgjhP3UbTg
  4. Bring the Natural World Indoors with Audubon:

Audubon is sharing their Audubon for Kids! Program
https://www.audubon.org/get-outside/activities/audubon-for-kids?ms=digital-eng-email-ea-newsletter-engagement_20200404_wingspan_%5baudience%5d&utm_source=ea&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=engagement_20200404_wingspan&utm_content=%5baudience%5d&emci=9b070704-f375-ea11-a94c-00155d03b1e8&emdi=bbe885d6-6b76-ea11-a94c-00155d03b1e8&ceid=183636

 

  1. From Robert Owen (AKA Scouter Bob):

Leave No Trace  has a list of nature projects that kids can do at home. You may want to check it out: https://lnt.org/indoor-nature-activities-for-kids/   Videos include:

  1. Know the Leave No Trace Seven Principles for Kids?
  2. Set up an indoor campsite with whatever supplies you have on hand.
  3. No campfire? No problem! Make some campfire alternatives.
  4. Make kits so you’ll be ready to go for your next adventure.
  5. Using stuffed animals to learn how to watch wildlife.
  6. Bandanas: the real multi-tool?
  1. National STEM in Scouting Committee
    The committee has developed an online Nova for remote Scouting. You can sign up at https://forms.gle/wnu6csPv4kmbGstx9
    This activity is for ages 7 thru 11 and you do not have to be a scout to participate! However, if you are a scout be sure to lead your Den Leader know when you finish this Nova so you are credited for the Nova Award.  This Nova applies to Wolf, Bear, and Webleos.

 

  1. ” src=”cid:image001.jpg@01D61750.C435C8D0″ alt=”0F94C1B2E2664BEDA7C541EC4A833499.jpg” border=”0″ class=”Apple-web-attachment Singleton” style=”width: 1.0833in; height: 0.7395in; opacity: 1;”>Pack 493 has developed a Coronavirus Awareness Patch awarded once cubs have completed the K5 Learning Coronavirus worksheets for children:
    https://www.k5learning.com/free-worksheets-for-kids/coronavirus

 

  1. Smithsonian Institute Museums Online Kids and Teens Programs:

Just because the buildings are closed doesn’t mean you can’t visit.  Wide range of activities available for all ages including how to create an art-making robot, American history stories and activities, watching zoo animals and much, much more.

https://www.si.edu/kids 

 

  1. Franklin Institute Museums Offers:
  2. What is Mixed Reality (MR)?

https://www.fi.edu/tech/what-is-mixed-reality

  1. What is Extended Reality (XR)?

https://www.fi.edu/tech/what-is-extended-reality

  1. Augmented Reality Pokemon on the Street

https://www.fi.edu/difference-between-ar-vr-and-mr

Augmented reality (AR) adds digital elements to a live view often by using the camera on a smartphone. Examples of augmented reality experiences include Snapchat lenses and the game Pokemon Go.

  1. Augmented Reality

https://www.fi.edu/augmented-reality

  1. Marine Debris on Pearl and Hermes Atoll

https://www.fi.edu/virtualreality/marine-debris-on-pearl-and-hermes-atoll

Step onto a beach where marine debris and wildlife life side by side. The Pacific trash gyre is a massive accumulation of marine debris that spirals in the North Pacific Ocean.

  1. Space Shuttle Atlantis at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex

https://www.fi.edu/virtualreality/space-shuttle-atlantis-at-the-kennedy-space-center-visitor-complex

 

BSA Resources Available Now!

Scouting.org/ScoutingAtHome – a webpage with an ever-growing list of resources to help Scouting families and friends safely continue their adventures. Also check out #ScoutingAtHome and your council’s website for even more activities, ideas and helpful tips. 

 

 

  Virus-free. www.avast.com


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Virtual Meetings

  1. The most recent from BSA on Digital Safety and Online Scouting Activities
  2. Troop 1760 SPL, Seneca District Shares:

The PLC just had a virtual meeting via Zoom and there are some things we are planning for our continuing time in quarantine.

  1. We have elected not to continue troop meetings online, but rather are reaching out to the two merit badge counselors to ideally continue the earning of those badges. Stay posted for details to come.
  2. In addition, we are expecting patrol leaders to meet with their patrols before the end of April to check up on their patrols and plan potential online “outings” such as patrol video game time or making masks. A more detailed email has been sent out to patrol leaders about this so stay posted for details so patrol members can attend.
  1. Bryan Martin Frivida (ACC, NCAC) shares:

As COVID-19 and remote meetings are very much an item of discussion these days, I wanted to share the latest guidance from BSA on remote meetings via BSA’s Digital Safety and Online Scouting Activities.

In addition, be sure to bookmark these helpful pages:

How to do Scouting in the Time of COVID-19

  1. Venture Crew 1345 TEDV (forwarded by Jae Englebrecht, ACC NCAC):

To that end, we are proud to introduce what we would like to call TEDv.

You’ve all probably heard of TEDx, and know that they are a series of informative talks about a wide range of subjects. Our TEDv series will be a chance for our Venturers to share topics they are interested in with you in the form of an interactive Zoom lecture led by a subject expert.

Here is the schedule of our TEDv talks and topics for the next few weeks:

Game Design with David Uribe: Apr 24

The Night Sky and Celestial Navigation with Stefan Arseneau: May 1

Each TEDv presentation will take place on Zoom on Friday at 6pm.  Expect the presentation to last about 10-30 minutes, followed by a question-and-answer session with the presenter.  You are welcome to attend any session you are interested in.  Watch your emails for the Zoom invitations, and we hope to see you at TEDv!

Yours in Venturing, David Uribe

  1. The Protect Yourself Rules Preview Adventure
    For Cub Scouts at all levels: https://www.scouting.org/programs/cub-scouts/preview-adventures/protect-yourself-rules/

The Protect Yourself Rules Preview Adventures may be used as an elective adventure OR they may be earned in place of the Cyber Chip requirement for the Tiger, Wolf, Bear, Webelos, and Arrow of Light badges of rank.  If used in place of the Cyber Chip requirement for a rank, it may not be used as an elective adventure for that rank.

  1. How to Protect Your Children From Child Abuse: A Parent’s Guide

These booklets are a basic resource to help parents understand how child abuse happens and keep their children safe. Exercises for parents and children are included. Several versions of the booklets are available:

For Cub Scouts and their parents
https://filestore.scouting.org/filestore/pdf/100-014_WEB.pdf

For Cub Scouts and their parents (in Spanish)
https://filestore.scouting.org/filestore/pdf/100-073.pdf

For Scouts BSA members and their parents PDF icon
https://filestore.scouting.org/filestore/pdf/100-015(18)pdf

For Scouts BSA members and their parents (in Spanish) PDF icon
https://filestore.scouting.org/filestore/pdf/100-016_web.pdf

For STEM Scouts and their parents PDF icon
https://filestore.scouting.org/filestore/pdf/STEM_Guide.pdf

  1. Cyber Chip

To help families and volunteers keep youth safe while online, the BSA introduces the Cyber Chip. The Scouting portal showcasing Cyber Chip resources includes grade-specific videos for each level.  https://www.scouting.org/training/youth-protection/cyber-chip/

  1. Bullying Awareness

These fact sheets will help with bullying awareness and direct you to resources provided by the BSA and other entities we work with to protect children.
https://www.scouting.org/training/youth-protection/bullying/

  1. Camp Leadership … A Guide for Camp Staff and Unit Leaders

Brochure for unit leaders and camp staff who are responsible for providing a safe and healthy camp setting where Scouts are free from the worries of child abuse.
https://i9peu1ikn3a16vg4e45rqi17-wpengine.netdna-ssl.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/623-12719-CampLeadershipBrochure_WEB.pdf

  1. Welcome to Den Chief Training!
    Scouts wishing to become den chiefs need to take this course. The module identifies den chief responsibilities and tasks, and describes the den chief’s relationship to the adult den leaders and how that relates to the den chief’s activities with the den. After finishing the training, den chief candidates receive their certificate of completion.
    Den Chief Facilitated and Online Training

g.       Venturing Crew Officers Orientation

This training module is geared primarily to Venturing youth that are elected into positions as officers within their Venturing crew, but it can also be used by adult leaders to learn the duties of the officers in the crew. This course is very useful for youth officers to fully understand their roles and responsibilities as it relates to Crew Officers Briefings and Seminars. This course will help the youth develop an annual plan of activities for the crew, as well as acquiring leadership and team-building skills. Estimated time to complete: 45 minutes.

Take Venturing Crew Officers Orientation Now!

High Adventure Base Update Regarding Summer of 2020 – https://www.philmontscoutranch.org/coronavirus/

At this time, all HAB intend to open this summer.  There will be another update on May 1st.

The following issues are being worked on to come up with viable solutions, hopefully by the next update on April 1st:  1) Refunds, 2) Wilderness First Aid & other required training, 3) BSA Health/Medical Forms, and 4) Summer staff.

  1. Advancement — Cub Scouts

1)      Q: Can the Arrow of Light (fifth-grade dens) requirements fulfill the requirement to visit a troop or attend a troop outing to function as a patrol?

A:  Yes. Two things to keep in mind, the standard of completion for Cub Scout advancement is “Do Your Best,” so given the circumstances, we want to look at the purpose behind the requirements. Remember that doing nothing is never doing your best.

Dens can visit a virtual troop meeting to see the patrol method and youth leadership in action. Since the den cannot attend a troop campout or outing, the idea is for the den to function as a patrol while attending the virtual troop meeting. During this time, a virtual den meeting where the den functions as a patrol can be done. Elect a patrol leader, pick a patrol name, play a virtual game together as a patrol. Plenty of opportunities to Do Your Best to meet the intention of the requirement. Remember to maintain all youth protection standards online.

  1. Advancement — Scouts BSA, Venturing and Sea Scouts

1)      Q: Can merit badge counseling or Nova/Supernova counseling be done using digital technologies like Zoom or WebEx?

A:  Yes, registered merit badge counselors or Nova counselors/Supernova mentors may work with youth using digital platforms, ensuring that all youth protection measures noted in the Guide to Safe Scouting and BSA’s social media guidelines are in place. In addition to youth protection, the advancement guidelines in Guide to Advancement (GTA) Section 7 are required.

2)      Q: Are merit badge counselors allowed to provide online instruction?
A:  Yes. Merit badge counselors should follow the guidelines in the Guide to Advancement 7.0.3.2 and ensure you are adhering to all youth protection requirements and online communications guidelines. It is acceptable—and sometimes preferable—for merit badges to be taught in group settings, including online instruction. We currently allow group instruction at camp and merit badge midways, fairs, clinics, or similar events. These can be efficient methods, and interactive group discussions can support learning. Gathering a group online can also be beneficial. Guest experts and speakers that assist registered and approved counselors may be more willing to speak to a larger online audience. Slide shows, skits, demonstrations, panels, and various other techniques can also be employed, but as any teacher can attest, not everyone will learn all the material. Therefore, the standards we use to verify that each Scout has fulfilled requirements must not be relaxed. Merit badge counselors must be sure that each Scout has individually gained the knowledge intended. When accomplished, counselors can easily sign off requirements via ScoutBook.

3)      Q: What changes have been made to rank advancement/camping requirements given the need to maintain social distancing during this time?
A:  We have implemented temporary changes, detailed below, to allow Scouts to complete rank requirements, detailed below, by video conferencing through September 1, 2020. This deadline will be re-evaluated as needed.
The goal when using video conferencing must be to preserve the ideals and intent of each requirement as best as possible. Scoutmasters or their designee(s) should remain mindful of the Methods of Scouting, such as the Patrol Method, before implementing the modified requirements listed below. Some advancement activities can be completed by video conferencing but not all. For example, virtual visits to a city council meeting, national historic landmarks, museums, and art galleries may be acceptable, but swimming, rifle shooting, and motorboating merit badges cannot be completed virtually.
Even when using video conferencing, all virtual campouts and activities should consist of as many elements found on a normal outdoor campout or activity as possible. The most significant difference is that patrol or troop members are not all in the same location. All existing youth protection policies and digital safety guidelines must be followed.
Tenderfoot rank requirements
1b. – Virtual patrol or troop campouts via video conferencing will be permitted.
2a. – During the same day as your virtual patrol or troop campout, assist in preparing one meal with the help of those with whom you live. Tell your patrol or troop why it was important for each person to share in meal preparation and cleanup.
2b. – During the same day as your virtual campout, demonstrate the appropriate method of safely cleaning items used to prepare, serve and eat a meal.
5a. – Explain the importance of the buddy system as it relates to your personal safety on outings and in your neighborhood. Verbally commit to following the buddy system on your next troop or patrol outing.
7a. – Tell how to display, raise, lower, and fold the U.S. flag.
Second Class rank requirements:
1a & 1c. – Virtual patrol or troop activities via video conferencing will be permitted.
3b. – Using a compass and map together, plan a 5-mile hike approved by your adult leader.
4. – Evidence of wild animals can be demonstrated with information or photos of your local area found online.
5c. – May be completed virtually via video conferencing on dry land.
7c. – Learn about the dangers of using drugs, alcohol and tobacco and other practices that could be harmful to your health. Discuss what you learned with your family and explain the dangers of substance addictions. Report to your Scoutmaster or other adult leader in your troop about which parts of the Scout Oath and Scout Law relate to what you learned.
8a. – May be completed virtually using video conferencing.
8d. – May be completed by comparing costs at three (3) online sites or locations.

First Class rank requirements:
1a – Virtual patrol or troop activities via video conferencing will be permitted.
2e. – On the same day as your virtual campout, serve as the cook. Supervise your assistant(s) in using a stove or building a cooking fire. Prepare the breakfast, lunch, and dinner planned in First Class requirement 2a. Supervise the cleanup.
4a. – By drawing, computer software, or other virtual methods, plan an orienteering course that would cover at least one mile. Explain why measuring the height and/or width of designated items (tree, tower, canyon, ditch, etc.) is helpful. Explain how you would complete your course using a real map and compass.
4b. – Scouts do not need to follow their route.
5a. – Evidence of native plants can be demonstrated with information or photos of your local area found online.
6e. – May be completed on dry land.
9a. – Visit may take place virtually or by phone.
9c. – Outings can include past or future plans.
10. – Invite the potential new member to a virtual meeting or future activity using video conferencing. 

4)      Q: Will virtual camping count toward Order of the Arrow nights camping?
A:  No, virtual camping will not count toward the 15 nights camping required for membership in the Order of the Arrow.

  1. Q: Can merit badge requirements be adapted since some elements can’t be completed as stated right now?
    A:  The published guidelines for the methodology of the merit badge program and the role of the merit badge counselor is found in the Guide to Advancement, Section 70.0.0. It is important to remember that leaders and merit badge counselors must not make additions or deletions to requirements. The Scout is expected to meet the requirements as stated; however, in some cases, virtual “visits” may fulfill the intent of a requirement. When the requirement’s intent cannot be reached virtually, the requirements cannot be completed, and the Scout must wait to complete that badge/requirement. Merit badge counselors signing off on requirements must determine to the best of their ability if the Scout has demonstrated the intended outcome.
    All existing youth protection policies and digital safety guidelines must be followed.
  2. Q: Does a Scout need a hard copy of a Blue Card when working on merit badges?
    A:  No. Since the introduction of Scoutbook, the BSA has offered Scouts two ways of recording merit badge requirement completion: The Blue Card and Scoutbook. Both remain authorized methods to record merit badge work. Scoutbook is a part of the BSA Internet Advancement system, which means that entering an advancement record in Scoutbook is the same as entering it in Internet Advancement. Anyone with a BSA member ID automatically has access to a Scoutbook account through their my.scouting account.
  1. Mary Abe, White Oak Assistant District Commissioner Shares Ideas for Packs:
  2. Tiny Camp Fire   https://tinycampfire.net/

The website is for a company that sends tea candles and supplies for s’mores to people who will then connect on Zoom for a Tiny Camp Fire. Packs/dens could send out the supplies without using the company. Storytelling, jokes and skits could be incorporated.

  1. Best Zoom Games:
    https://www.techrepublic.com/article/6-best-zoom-games-for-some-virtual-face-time-during-the-coronavirus-pandemic/
    Bingo, Yahtzee, Pictionary, and many more ideas plus Tech tips for how to implement these games.
  2. Scavenger Hunt Ideas
    https://parade.com/1023648/jessicasager/scavenger-hunt-ideas-for-kids/
    There are any number of scavenger hunt ideas of on-line: This resource has 29 ideas. I think that there are some Cub Scout specific ones also, but this gives a broad range of ideas.
  3. 30 Day Challenge
    https://cubscoutideas.com/13550/30-day-cub-scout-challenge/
    Probably the easiest way to get folks into scouting at home. There is a challenge for every Cub level with age appropriate activities for every day of April.
  4. Leatherworking–Tandy leather
    Tandyleather.com/en/category/kits
  5. under boy’s life ‘stuck inside 25 fun projects’ look at:
  1. Morse code with a flashlight and phone or pc w zoom
  2. Webex, room or google hangouts meet
  3. Show and tell virtual
  4. Work on cyber chip   https://www.scouting.org/training/youth-protection/cyber-chip/
  5. Virtual campouts
  6. Theresa Garcia-Parks, White Oak District forwards:
    1. From Victoria Eisenberg, Cubmaster, Pack 33:
      I am doing a virtual campout for scouts  https://www.facebook.com/allaboutscouts/posts/1657825367689363
      So feel free to share that! ALL scouts are welcome to join. It lasts for 2 weeks allowing scouts to be able to do at home when they are able. I didn’t yet set up a zoom campfire for everyone on the event since it’s open to ALL scouts but I am doing one for our unit.
    2. Great website for Cubs from Narragansett Council https://www.narragansettbsa.org/camping-activities/virtual-scouting/72761

 

Opportunities to Serve

  1. Troop 33 Virtual Food Drive (recommended by Dr. Rick Manteuffel, ACC):

Troop 33 has set a goal of donating 5,000 food items to the Capital Area Food Bank to help provide meals to vulnerable community members during the COVID-19 emergency.   Scouts are encouraged to share the message with family and friends, who can participate.  The beneficiary is the Capital Area Food Bank.

UPDATE:  The troop reports that they are over halfway to our goal of 5,000 items now. There’s still a week to go!
The event page is https://yougivegoods.com/troop33-cafb

  1. Theresa Garcia-Parks, White Oak District forwards:

From Victoria Eisenberg, Cubmaster, Pack 33:
Virtual Earth Month Community Service & it encourages people to be able to give back in whatever creative way they can & of course is open to all scouts.

https://www.facebook.com/allaboutscouts/posts/1657795151025718

Interesting Stuff

  1. Sign Up for BL BAM! https://boyslife.org/blbam/?utm_source=scoutingwire&utm_campaign=swvolunteer4152020&utm_medium=email&utm_content=A
    Boys’ Life‘s email newsletter is perfect to make your days at home more fun. Each email will blow your mind with cool projects, hilarious jokes and super fun games! Sign up to get drops in your inbox!

STEM Corner

  1. Franklin Institute Museums Offers:
    a.  What is Mixed Reality (MR)?
    https://www.fi.edu/tech/what-is-mixed-reality
  1. What is Extended Reality (XR)?
    https://www.fi.edu/tech/what-is-extended-reality
  2. Augmented Reality Pokemon on the Street
    https://www.fi.edu/difference-between-ar-vr-and-mr
    Augmented reality (AR) adds digital elements to a live view often by using the camera on a smartphone. Examples of augmented reality experiences include Snapchat lenses and the game Pokemon Go.
  3. Augmented Reality
    https://www.fi.edu/augmented-reality
  4. Marine Debris on Pearl and Hermes Atoll
    https://www.fi.edu/virtualreality/marine-debris-on-pearl-and-hermes-atoll
    Step onto a beach where marine debris and wildlife life side by side. The Pacific trash gyre is a massive accumulation of marine debris that spirals in the North Pacific Ocean.
  5. Space Shuttle Atlantis at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
    https://www.fi.edu/virtualreality/space-shuttle-atlantis-at-the-kennedy-space-center-visitor-complex

BSA Resources Available Now!

Pack 33- White Oak District did a Virtual Camp-out.

Want to learn more about it?

Virtual Camp-out ‘Training’
Sunday 26th of April at 5 pm
Join Zoom Meeting https://us02web.zoom.us/j/82733878928
Capacity is at 100, but if I facebook live it, it will show up on facebook.com/allaboutscouts/ & anyone can view

Can’t make it on Sunday?
“How To” Virtual Camp-out ‘Training’ based on how we did it, give ideas, answer questions. I will also host a virtual camp-out on my page for May for units who can’t do April to make it easier from 17th of May to the 31st of May — They can RSVP here https://www.facebook.com/events/1539630562872134/

Yours in Scouting,
Ms Victoria Eisenberg (she/hers)
Pack 33 Cubmaster,

#scouton #scoutingathome #allaboutscouts
Pack 33 Website@allaboutscouts
https://www.facebook.com/allaboutscouts/
http://pack.takomaparkscouts33.org/

We would like to thank all those that attended our first Virtual Roundtable last Thursday.  We hope you all got as much out of it as your Roundtable Staff did.

If you dialed into the meeting, please let us know so we can match up the phone number with the folks that attended. You can email Phil Dennis (phil@dennis-family.org) or Hunter Shelley (hshelley@starpower.net).
 
There was a lot of great discussion on virtual meetings, virtual campouts and adjustments to requirements that recently came down from BSA National.
 
We will meet by Google Meeting again next month, and there are already some enhancements to this platform that should help us out a lot.  
 
Here is a link to a folder that contains the PowerPoint presentation, notes from the meeting and a suggestion for activities for your units.
 
https://bit.ly/2XMT9zB
 
Thanks for all that you do,
–Phil Dennis (Seneca District Boy Scout Round Table Commissioner)

Now is the time for Scouters to do their online training, since we cannot do in-person training at the moment.

Instead of going stir crazy, complete your Youth Protection Training (retaken every 2 years), or take any of the online training that is offered at my.scouting.org.

Not sure what courses are required to be a Trained Leader go to: https://www.scouting.org/training/training-quicklinks/ and select Trained Leader Requirements.

Remember if your position has changed you must update your training to be completely trained.

Courses offered online at my.scouting.org:

  • Youth Protection Training (retaken every 2 years)
  • Cub Scout Position Specific Trainings
  • Scoutmaster/Assistant Scoutmaster Training
  • Committee Specific Training
  • Merit Badge Training
  • BALOO prerequisites
  • Hazardous Weather (retaken every 2 years)
  • Safety Afloat (retaken every 2 years)
  • Safe Swim Defense (retaken every 2 years)
  • Trek Safely (retaken every 2 years)
  • Explore other trainings available at this site

Be sure to check out Expanded Learning located in my.scouting.org for Safety courses, BALOO prerequisites, Stem and other courses available beyond the basic Leader Specific courses.

Looking for stories this week of Scouts continuing to do service projects. Next week will be camping. Please put the word out and help units post to weownadventure.com!

Registration URL

https://zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_HWUfXT_yRlCWRqbVaZ2HsQ 
 
 

Description

The National Capital Area Council invites you to a meeting…. about meetings. Join us for a webinar to learn strategies for conducting engaging and safe meetings online.

The Marketing and Communications committee has set guidelines for best practices that will help you succeed in unit meetings and online programming. We will hear from both key volunteers and from a Scouts BSA troop about their experiences.

This webinar is open to all unit leaders and youth leaders. 

Youth members participating should have a parent/guardian’s permission to attend and should be supervised per their family’s standards.

This is a 40-minute presentation followed by 20 minutes for open questions.
 

Time

April 9, 2020 
8:00 PM Eastern Time

Registration URL

https://zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_HWUfXT_yRlCWRqbVaZ2HsQ 

Please share this message from Jim Turley, National Chair, Boy Scouts of America

Dear Scouting family, 

With the best interests of our volunteers and employees in mind, the Boy Scouts of America (BSA) has decided to cancel the in-person 2020 National Annual Meeting, which was scheduled to take place in Washington, D.C. during the week of May 18, 2020. We will begin processing your refunds shortly, which will be made in the original method of payment. 

The decision was made after careful consideration of many variables including state and local guidelines and the needs of our attendees. No further decisions about other national activities or events have been made at this time. 

We are currently exploring ways to provide alternative opportunities to share timely information, accomplish necessary business, and provide inspiration that will help us guide Scouting forward in the months and years to come. This will include a virtual meeting of voting members to address requirements outlined in our bylaws. 

We look forward to empowering our volunteers and professionals so we can continue to focus our energy on building Scouting’s strength as we look to empower and support youth and families in our communities. 

I also have a special request I’d like you to consider. If you had planned on attending this year’s meeting, we ask that you instead redirect the funds you would have spent attending the meeting – for registration, travel, and your hotel stay – to your local council. This will go a long way to help Scouting come back stronger after the COVID-19 pandemic subsides. 

Our communities will need our support more than ever, and with your partnership, Scouting can be ready to help Americans come back together in service and adventure when the time is right. Thank you for your dedicated support of Scouting. 

Hello Seneca Scouters!  We would like to do everything we can to show our appreciation to all medical personnel and first responders always, but especially right now. What are some ideas we can do to show our appreciation? Here are some the Key 3 have come up with

YiS,
Pam Pagnotta
Seneca District Chair

Seneca District Cub Scouts and Scouts BSA will hold a virtual Roundtable in April.

Due to next Thursday being both Passover and Maudy Thursday, we are moving the Seneca RTs to the following week, APRIL 16th, 7:30

We will meet at our regular meeting time, April 16th at 7:30 PM.  I’ll have the Google Meeting open by 7:15 pm if folks want to talk before hand.  
 
This month should focus on how units are doing, how are they coping, what can we do to help them, are they meeting, HOW are they meeting, Dens, Packs, Patrols, Troops, etc., what (if any) plans for summer camp have changed.  We will also (time permitting) will have a discussion on “home spun” summer camp ideas.
 
If you have the Google Hangouts App, you can click on the link below and you will be joined to the meeting from your phone.  If you want to join on your computer, again, click the Meeting ID link below in your browser and you can join.  If using a phone you should be connected to a wireless network (as opposed to your cell providers network) to save on data charges.  
 
Join Hangouts Meet
meet.google.com/rfb-epto-coc
Meeting ID
meet.google.com/rfb-epto-coc
Phone Numbers
(‪US‬)
‪+1 575-567-3197‬
PIN: ‪922 618 977#‬
Phil Dennis
Scouts BSA Roundtable Commissioner
 
Happy Easter and Passover to All!!
YIDS
Commish

We are on for April – details coming soon with how/where to dial in for the discussion.

Hello

In this time of school closings, many scouts are stuck at home without productive options.  For many, classes are suspended, and most do not have troop meetings or other extracurricular activities.  As such, NCAC would like to offer a new program called Merit Badges @ Home. The goal is to help scouts continue their scouting journey and stay connected.

WHAT

A series of online classes and meetings designed to help scouts advance.  Scouts work with counselors through Zoom meetings and a Basecamp project.

WHY

To help the scouts of NCAC stay engaged with scouting during this period when all council and district activities have shut down (and most units have as well).

WHEN

We’re already underway.  But before you promote to scouts, we need you to help us find counselors.  All badges have been selling out in just hours.  Yes, less than a day.  DEMAND FAR EXCEEDS SUPPLY

WHO

We need merit badge counselors.
  1. They need to be registered as merit badge counselors already
  2. Those who have experience working at camps, merit badge days, or with larger groups helpful, but we’ll take everyone who’s qualified
  3. Badges should be able to be completed by scouts who are homebound or that can be completed in their yard or areas with appropriate social distancing.
  4. We’re looking for these badges in particular (see list) but open to any topics.
  5. We also need a second adult to be present at sessions.  So additional volunteers welcome.

TOOLS:

NEXT STEPS:

If you are able to host a merit badge (or even 2 or 3) please let us know.
  1. Please fill out this form as a counselor –  https://www.ncacbsa.org/merit-badges-at-home/
  2. Let us know which badge(s) you’d like to offer
  3. Join the Online Merit Badge Counselor Basecamp Project – https://bit.ly/ncacmbc
  4. We will be in touch shortly for onboarding. We have detailed training and support for you.
Thank you for all that you do and for your consideration in helping our Scouts. 

Yours in Scouting,

Richard Harrington
NCAC VP of Marketing & Communications
Are you stuck at home with some free time? You should think about getting your trained patch or finishing up your position-specific training, or taking some relevant supplemental classes available.
 
Now you can check here what do you need to complete, all in one convenient location!  As you all can imagine, our in person training classes are being postponed. The good news is that you can complete your online training at my.scouting.org
 
https://www.ncacbsa.org/seneca/wp-content/uploads/sites/8/2018/09/PositionTrainedCourses.pdf  
 
Let’s reach for the stars. Let’s go for 100% of our adults fully trained

There will be significant food needs in Montgomery County and many opportunities to do community service in the next days and weeks.     Do give them a call to offer such support as you and your unit may wish to give.  Their telephone number is 301 424 1130.

From National 02/29/2020

To help ensure units have full access to BSA online systems while councils continue to process recharters, we are extending the grace period for units to continue accessing online systems for an additional 30 days. This includes Scoutbook, Internet Advancement, Application Manager, my.Scouting tools, and Den Leader Experience.

This 3-5 April 2020!

Part of Scouting’s great success over the past 113 years has been its enduring ability to adapt and respond to the changing needs of communities at every level. Young people in many countries today face challenges at home and in their local communities due to COVID-19. Their formal education, where they have access to it, has been severely impacted by the pandemic.  

According to UNESCO monitoring, as of today 85 countries have closed schools nationwide, impacting 776.7 million children and youth. At this challenging time, we, as a united Movement of 171 National Scout Organizations need to hold true to the Promise that binds us together and do our duty to help other people.

At this extraordinary moment when many people are isolated, it is our firm belief that we should rise to the challenge and respond with an extraordinary global event that will unite Scouting at every level. Today we are excited to announce a special edition of Jamboree on the Internet (JOTI), the largest digital Scout event held annually!

This special JOTI will be both educational and fun, bringing Scouting to the homes of young people around the world. It will be a space for young people and Scouts to connect, learn and build friendships during this challenging time of social distance. It will be a mass mobilization that seeks to engender a sense of unity throughout the Movement.

Through a dynamic virtual engagement program, young people will be able to learn about safety measures, mental and physical health tips, and more while digitally engaging as global citizens through a range of activities – from webinars to concerts. The special edition of JOTI will also enable Scouts to connect to peers from different countries, hear from special guests and share ideas about Scouting from home. The online platform will provide National Scout Organizations and Scouts with helpful resources, ideas and initiatives to adapt regular Scouting activities to engaging initiatives that can be done at home. 

As we navigate uncharted waters, together, we can turn this challenge into an opportunity to continuously showcase and share what Scouting is all about – unity, friendship, education and resourcefulness. 

Join us online this 3 – 5 April 2020 and help us spread the word of this JOTI Special Edition today.  

Craig Turpie                                              Ahmad Alhendawi

Chairperson,                                     Secretary General

World Scout Committee                  WOSM   

Seneca District Scouts BSA will hold a virtual Round Table in April

We will meet at our regular meeting time, April 9th at 7:30 PM.  I’ll have the Google Meeting open by 7:15 pm if folks want to talk before hand.  
 
This month should focus on how units are doing, how are they coping, what can we do to help them, are they meeting, HOW are they meeting, Dens, Packs, Patrols, Troops, etc., what (if any) plans for summer camp have changed.  We will also (time permitting) will have a discussion on “home spun” summer camp ideas.
 
If you have the Google Hangouts App, you can click on the link below and you will be joined to the meeting from your phone.  If you want to join on your computer, again, click the Meeting ID link below in your browser and you can join.  If using a phone you should be connected to a wireless network (as opposed to your cell providers network) to save on data charges.  
 
Join Hangouts Meet
meet.google.com/rfb-epto-coc
Meeting ID
meet.google.com/rfb-epto-coc
Phone Numbers
(‪US‬)
‪+1 575-567-3197‬
PIN: ‪922 618 977#‬
Phil Dennis
Scouts BSA Roundtable Commissioner

We are looking for a couple of technically savvy Merit Badge counselors that can help in a pilot to support completing merit badges at home. Interested – contact Lynn Hamilton at seneca.webmaster@ncacbsa.org.

Hello all, 

Since the District COH has slipped from March to May 12,  I will continue to solicit via e-mail for additional SOUSA awardees.  Send your supporting paragraph to Tom Kennedy. 

Best Regards, 
Tom
Thomas C. Kennedy 
(C) 301-461-4101
tckenne@comcast.net  

Due to the COVID-19 coronavirus group gathering restrictions, Sea Scout Ship 125 has gone to “Plan B”–a VIRTUAL Sock Burning.  Prospective Sea Scouts, Maritime Explorers, and anyone else interested in learning more about this whimsical sailing tradition is invited to join us!
 
Feel free to contact me with questions.
 
YiS,
 
Paula Sind-Prunier
Skipper
Sea Scout Ship 125 – Man o’ War
Germantown/Middle River, MD
skipper@ship125.org
C: (202) 577-7339

Scouts BSA April Round Table on April 9th will be via a Google Meeting.  Phil Dennis will be hosting the meeting and will send out a link for those that wish to participate on line.  There will also be a phone number to dial in if you do not want to “SEE” the presentation.  More details to follow.

Thanks for all that you do,
–Phil Dennis (Seneca District Boy Scout Round Table Commissioner)

For Scouts BSA, Venturing, Sea Scouts, and Explorers:

NCAC Canoeing Class at Camp Snyder
Introduction to Canoeing
Successful completion earns the Canoeing merit badge

June 14-16, 2019
$35
Info and online registration

Ticket order form

Come out to the Frederick Keys on Saturday, June 1, 2019 and get a great deal. Game, Fireworks and Optional Sleep on the Field! See flyer for details. (note: if you sleep on the field, bring a tent that does NOT require stakes.)

On Tuesday, June 4th, the Montgomery County Area will recognize Thomas Manger, the retiring Chief of the Montgomery County Police Department, for his leadership and contributions to our county and to Scouting.

Other honorees will include Maggie Smith, Theresa Garcia-Park, and Will Stone. The event will take place at the Black Rock Center for the Arts in Germantown and will begin with a light reception at 6pm with the formal program set to begin at 7pm.

A link to this event on the district calendar is: www.ncacbsa.org/2019MontgomeryCitizen.

Updated 5/14/2019

All youth and adults are invited to the 4th annual STEM University! Scouts are invited to display their Supernova projects at our Einstein’s Science Fair or participate in hands-on activities. Adults may select from classes including Nova Counselor & Supernova Mentor Training, BSA’s STEM Roadmap to Success, Cub Scout Science, and Organizing STEM Events.

Register here

Cub Scout Day Camp is one of the most exciting parts of a Scout’s summer. With shooting sports, nature craft, games, and new friends, your Cubs will make memories they’ll be talking about for the rest of the year. So if you still haven’t registered your pack for day camp you’re in luck! To make sure every Cub Scout has the chance to go to day camp this summer the early bird registration deadline has been extended through Sunday, May 19 at 11:59pm. After that, prices go up by an additional $40. With 20 locations and dates to choose from there’s a day camp to fit every family’s schedules, so don’t miss out on the adventure! Book your week today before our most popular camps fill up!

For more information – visit here.

El programa requerido de Capacitación de Protección Juvenil de BSA ahora está disponible en español.

More details here

Reminder – The Scouts Roundtable has been cancelled in favor of the May 8 Program Launch.

Reminder – The Cub Scout Roundtable has been cancelled in favor of the May 8 Program Launch.

I will be at the Kingsview LDS church in Germantown in the parking lot from 6-7pm Wednesday evening.

Stop by and drop off your day camp information before the early bird deadline passes.

Ethan Schepp
40-818-6429

Michael’s Woodshop is pleased to offer a wide range of activities for Scouts of all ages. We are offering project nights focused around Baloo the Builder and Webelos Build-It activities, Woodwork Merit Badge sessions, and a Woodworking 101 series of classes.

We are planning to hold several “Troop Trailer Days” for Troops that would like to build out or reconfigure their trailers. We be setting aside certain evenings for Unit reservations. You may pick a project from a project list or work with us to develop a project of your choice. Interested in something else? Just contact us and we will be happy to help you design your own event. Check back soon for more information about these events.

Registration and Event Details

This Geology STEM event is sponsored by Dr. Julia Nord and The GMU Department of Atmospheric, Oceanic and Earth Sciences.   

This event is a great springboard into BSA Geology and STEM awards.

Event Description: 
The STEM Program consists of 3 hour sessions, and welcomes all girl and boy youth from 4th to 12th grade. The programs are structured around the Scout Awards delineated below, however same-age siblings are most welcome to attend, so feel free to register! Each session includes a guided tour of the GMU Physical Geology and Paleontology labs

There is a $11 fee per youth attendee. Please see below to register for the appropriate class. Pre-registration is required for all online (see to the right to select your session and register). 

Saturday April 27: Sessions are for Cubs Webelos to work on their STEM Nova Down and Dirty & Earth Rocks Adventure. 

Sunday April 28: Sessions are for Scouts BSA to work on their Geology Merit Badge. 

Event Details:

The 24th World Scout Jamboree (WSJ) will be held at the Summit Bechtel Reserve in West Virginia, July 21 – August 2, 2019. Some 50,000 Scouts from 170 countries will take part in this once in a lifetime experience. Troops and Crews are doing unit shakedowns in April-May; many Scouts BSA Troops for girls will gather in Charlotte, NC a couple days before the start of the WSJ to conduct the shakedown with other members from across the country, before traveling to the WSJ as a group. Scouts must be between 14 and 17 years of age at the start of WSJ. To encourage participation by new Scouts BSA troops for girls, the 1st Class requirement has been waved for these units. For more information, contact Jay Eidson, NCAC International Representative and BSA North East Region Commissioner.

Apply

The Seneca Membership Committee will be providing new print-and-use tools, resources, and information that we hope will make the role of membership easier and more efficient for volunteers during the upcoming 2019-2020 school year. Please update the contact information for your Pack’s Membership Chair or other POC as well as recruiting expectations with area schools.

LINK: SENECA DISTRICT MEMBERSHIP LIST

Daniel Delacy

The High Adventure Skills Resources Management Course
August 24 – 26
(a three-day course)

Camp St. Charles, Newberg, MD
Course Director: Shawn Carroll
Presented by the National Capital Area Council, BSA

What is Powder Horn? Powder Horn is a resource course designed to introduce Scouting’s adult leaders to exciting program possibilities using a variety of resources for their unit. It helps leaders to provide a robust outdoor program that meets the health and safety requirements as well as the rules and regulations of the BSA as they apply to outdoor programs. The goal for participants is to leave the Powder Horn course with a list of ideas to help their program, along with contacts and resources needed to implement them. It is important to understand that Powder Horn is not a personal development course or a team building experience. It is not a certification course. Its purpose is to educate the youth and adult Scouting leaders about specific high-adventure skills, to connect them to resources to deliver those skills, and to get them excited about delivering those skills in an exciting, challenging way to youth.

Who can attend Powder Horn?
All registered adult leaders are welcome. All participants must be registered members of the Boy Scouts of America. Adults must have completed Leader Specific Training for their registered position. All youth applications will be placed on a wait list until all adult applications are processed. Youth participants (14 and up) will be admitted on an individual basis and requires the completion of the Powder Horn Youth Application Addendum includes the nomination by the unit leader. Youth must have completed their unit’s version of leadership training (Introduction to Leadership Skills for Troops or Crews, etc.). National Youth Leadership Training is recommended.

What will we do? Powder Horn is organized around the BSA’s High Adventure elements.

Topics may include:
Archery………………….Emergency Preparedness…………Rifle
Astronomy……………..Fly Fishing……………………………….Sailing
Canoe……………………GPS – Geocaching……………………Scuba
Caving……………………Hunting…………………………………..Search and Rescue
Communications…….Kayaking…………………………………STEM
Conservation………….Leadership Lessons on Film……..Wilderness Survival
COPE Challenge Course….Mountain Biking……………….Winter Sports
Ecology…………………..Pistol……………………………………….Youth Development

What is the Course Size? The course is limited to 40 participants.
– Adult registrations will be accepted on a first come-first served basis to fill the 40 participant positions and, when those are filled, adult applicants will be placed on a waiting list in case of cancellation.
– We are not able to accept youth registration on a first come-first served basis. All youth will be placed on a wait-list and asked to complete the Powder Horn Youth Application Addendum via email. The addendum will be used to evaluate all youth registrations. Youth will be notified of the status of their application by June 7, 2019. Thank you for your consideration and understanding as we need to service all members of the Council.

How Do I Register? Registration opens Friday, February 1, 2019 and closes on June 3, 2019. The fee is $300.00. Fees will only be refunded if you cancel before July 1, 2019 AND there is someone on the waiting list willing to take your place. Register at https://www.ncacbsa.org/powder-horn or https://www.ncacbsa.org/training/powder-horn or go to the NCAC website, click on the training tab and then click on Powder Horn. You will need to register with your BSA Identification Number.

NCAC Powder Horn Coordinator: Dominick Caridi,
DscScouting@aol.com // 703-625-4196

When: Saturday 6/8/19 – CPR morning, First Aid afternoon

Where: Frederick County Public Safety Training Facility
5370 Public Safety Place
For GPS, enter: 8349 Reichs Ford Road Frederick, MD 21701
( Here are written directions)

Fee: $5 for Camp Airy staff
$30 for non-staff
(Fee is for any combination of the 4 classes listed below.)

Registration: MUST PREREGISTER ONLINE!
Online registration link

Choices:

CPR and First Aid (all day) “Basic First Aid/CPR and AED for Adult/Child/Infant”

CPR only (morning) “CPR and AED for Adult/Child/Infant”

First Aid only (afternoon) “Basic First Aid”

ASHI CPR PRO (Camp Airy health lodge and aquatics staff only) “ASHI CPR PRO”

Under each class choice is a “student signup” button. This will open the registration form for just that particular class. Please complete the information and “submit” the form. Note the class meeting times on the form. Checkin will open 15 minutes before class begins. Please be prompt. Certifications are for 2 years through American Safety & Health Institute (ASHI).

Instructor: Jeff Huggins

Lunch:

There will be a short lunch break. Please bring your lunch or be prepared to quickly go get your own lunch locally.

Why be a Trained Den Chief?Who is a Den Chief? The Den Chief supports the Cub Scout/Family Scout Den Leader, serving as a helper, role model, and a friend to the Tiger, Wolf and Bear Cub Scouts and Webelos Scouts.
Qualifications: Be an experienced Boy Scout, (at least one full year or more), and First Class rank or above. A Venturing Scout (male or female) can also be a Den Chief. Complete the in person Den Chief training (this class).
Who Else Should Come?? Boy Scout, Crew and Cub Scout/Family Scouting Leader(s) who will be working with the Den Chief(s) are encouraged to attend this course at NO charge, but you MUST register. 
Registration and information

Would you like a job as a lifeguard this summer? Then you will need to complete a lifeguard certification course. NCAC is offering a combined BSA and American Red Cross Waterfront Lifeguarding class starting this month. The pre-test session is on April 28 in Chantilly VA. The course dates are May 18, 19 and 25 at Camp Snyder in Haymarket VA. Registration deadline is April 28. The cost is $150. Minimum age is 15. Register or find more information here.

This Geology STEM event, sponsored by Dr. Julia Nord and The GMU Department of Atmospheric, Oceanic and Earth Sciences, is a great springboard into BSA Geology and STEM awards. The program welcomes all youth from 4th to 12th grade and is structured around several Scout Awards. However same-age siblings are also welcome to attend! Each session includes a guided tour of the GMU Physical Geology and Paleontology labs. Cost is $11 per youth attendee. Registration is required. Space is limited. Register today.

The Cub Scout Roundtable is here to help you. We welcome new leaders and parents with questions and seasoned leaders with experience. Facilitated by the Roundtable staff, we all work together to put on the best program we can for our Scouts.

For the April Roundtable we will be using the Scout Law point “Helpful” and the theme of “Jobs, Jobs, Jobs”. Our interest topic will be “Leader Recruiting and Succession Planning”.  Please come join us. Please invite the new (and returning) leaders of your pack to join us. Light refreshments are served.  Let us help you plan for the future of your pack so that the Scouting opportunity remains for those in future years.

7:30pm-8:30pm, Thursday April 11, Montgomery Village LDS Church, 20020 Montgomery Village Ave, Montgomery Village, MD 20886.

Also please note that we will not be having a Seneca District Roundtable on May 9th, as we would like to encourage our Leaders to attend the Program Launch on May 8th.

Alex
Cub Scout Roundtable Commissioner

Attention Scouts & Scouters!

Opportunity for Wilderness Survival Merit Badge close to home.

We (Troop 433) will be doing a session on wilderness survival merit badge, with focus on Requirement #8, “build a natural shelter and spend a night in it”. The time will be first weekend in May 2019 (Friday night 03 May 2019 to Sunday morning 05 May 2019). The location will be the Walkersville Watershed in Frederick County, between Walkersville MD and Libertytown MD.

https://www.ncacbsa.org/francis-scott-key/fsk-watershed/

Most critical is the need for youth from other troops (non-T433) to be accompanied by adults, who have health forms, and can act as health advocate in case of emergency.

Contact for more information & reservations.
Dr. Rick Manteuffel, PhD
Assistant Council Commissioner: (Administration):
Wood Badge patrol: Antelopes: NE-VI-77
National Capital Area Council, BSA

Dear Scouters;

All four of the BSA High-Adventure bases (HAB) require at least one person per trek (two per trek at Philmont Scout Ranch) to be current in Wilderness First Aid (WFA) through an approved provider. We want your trip to be safe and successful, and making certain that you have proper training certifications prior to launch is a big step towards that. Read on for tips on how to ensure that you’re prepared for that next high adventure trip, and how to verify that your current certifications meet BSA requirements.

Last fall we informed NCAC leaders about a third-party vendor providing WFA training without proper certifications. We continue to receive reports from Scouters that certifications for WFA that they received from a third-party vendor do not satisfy the requirements for High-Adventure as defined by BSA.

Your safety is of paramount importance to us, which is why we recently introduced our own WFA course to provide certifications suitable for both our High-Adventure Camp at Lenhok’sin and BSA’s 4 High-Adventure Bases. Information on NCAC WFA courses can be found at: www.ncacbsa.org/opi-wfa.

If you’ve already received a certification via a third-party vendor, please take the time to make certain it is current and valid. You can verify an ARC WFA certification by visiting redcross.org/take-a-class/digital-certificate. Simply search by your Email Address; by First Name, Last Name, Year and Month (when class was held); or by Certificate ID. If you also received a CPR certification with your WFA course, you can check it there too.

If you find that the ARC WFA certification you hold is NOT showing as valid within the ARC database but should be, we ask that you contact us directly. Please complete this form to report the situation and select “Certification Issue” for the topic.

If you do decide to use a third-party provider, we encourage you to verify their credentials via The American Red Cross or other governing agency prior to beginning any course. Directions for checking an instructor’s credentials prior to taking a class, can be found here. Be wary of providers who claim to “know” or “keep lists” of BSA requirements, but who are unable to provide BSA approved certifications for WFA per BSA WFA and High-Adventure requirements.To learn more about BSA approved providers and requirements, please visit BSA’s page on WFA and High-Adventure requirements at: https://www.scouting.org/health-and-safety/training/wilderness-fa/

As always, if you have questions or concerns about a provider, please contact a Council professional for assistance. Your safety is our priority. Help keep Scouting safe for all. Get trained by a certified professional and make sure your certifications are up to date and valid.

Thank you for all that you do for Scouting,
The NCAC Team

BSA isn’t mailing Units their paper charters this year.
Instead Unit Key 3 (Chartered Org. Rep., Committee Chair, or Cub/Scoutmaster/Advisor) may download & print it.
instructions here

It’s an Outdoor Sale!

Featuring used tents, camp stoves, cooking gear, coolers, lifejackets, tarps, Dutch ovens, storage totes, sleeping bags and mats, and other camping necessities and outdoor gear – at great deals!

When: Saturday & Sunday, March 30 & 31
Time: 10am-3pm
Where: Greenfield Lighthouse, Germantown MD

Donations welcome. All proceeds will support the maintenance, repair & operation of Sea Scout Ship 125’s fleet, and opportunities for ALL Scouts to get out on the water with Ship 125.

Come Saturday for the best selection—but NO EARLYBIRDS, PLEASE!

Directions: From Rt. 118, turn west on Observation Drive, then left on Boland Farm Rd., right on Sunnyview Dr., then right on Greenfield Rd., and finally left on Major Dr. The Greenfield Lighthouse is on the left.

Watch for the signs. Please do not park on the grass

Questions about the sale? Call (855) 334-7556. For information about Sea Scouting (ages 14-21) or Maritime Explorers (6th, 7th & 8th grades), come— or visit www.beascout.org to contact Ship 125 in Germantown.

Flyer (including directions)

This will be the 30th Rockville Science Day. The event is at Montgomery College’s Rockville Campus, on April 28, Noon to 5PM.

Information for the event is in the flier.

If you need additional information or help registering, please contact Howard Lichtman at hjlichtman@lichtman.ws or call Howard at 301.580.7190.

More information about the event is listed below …

Rockville Science Day 2019
30th ROCKVILLE SCIENCE DAY 2019
Sunday, April 28, 2019, Noon to 5:00 p.m.
Montgomery College, Rockville Campus

Rockville Science Day is an afternoon of family fun, with hands-on exhibits, demonstrations and performances in all fields of science, including Environment & Nature, Space & Astronomy, Reptiles & Birds, Chemistry & Biology, and Robotics & Rockets.

The Rockville Science Center is a community based non-profit that encourages youth, adults, and families to be involved with science and the STEM.  Every year we host a large event at Montgomery College’s Rockville campus called Rockville Science Day.  This is a festival where exhibitors show off programs, provide interactive activities, and encourage participation.  There will be volunteer and SSL opportunities for the scouts.  We are looking for both youth and leaders, to help with setting up, taking the event down, assisting exhibitors, and other responsibilities as well.

This will be the 30th Rockville Science Day. The event is at Montgomery College’s Rockville Campus, on April 28, Noon to 5PM. There is no cost to exhibit.

Oran Lichtman

NYLT is an exciting, action-packed program designed for youth to learn and practice the leadership skills that will help them succeed in Scouting and in life!

Details!

The program consists of two components: earning the Horsemanship Merit Badge and doing a backcountry horse cavalcade in Saskatchewan, Canada in Summer 2020 called the Canada Cavalcade. Both programs are open to both boys and girls. All YPT and Guidelines for Safe Scouting procedures will be strictly adhered to for mixed gender programs.

I will be offering the Horsemanship merit badge on May 6; May 11-12. It is limited to ten scouts. If there is enough interest, I will offer it again in Fall 2019.

I am actively recruiting Scouts and adults for the Canada Cavalcade. The crew will be limited to a maximum of 12 people (4 Scouters and 8 Scouts). At the moment, we are just in the expression of interest stage, but we will begin work ups and shake down events starting in September 2019.

You can find full information, as well as registration, at the following website:
https://sites.google.com/view/cbdhorsemanship/home

As I mentioned, though this program will be offered in the first instance to Scouts within the Chain Bridge District (Virginia), it is open to Scouts across the NCAC as well.

Yours in Scouting,
Reuben Brigety
BT/GT 128 Committee Chair
Horsemanship Merit Badge Instructor

8th Annual Merit Badge University

Hosted by the Zeta Mu Chapter, Alpha Phi Omega Natl. Service Fraternity On the Campus of The Catholic University of America with the cooperation of the Washington DC District, NCAC

April 13 & 14, 2019
6:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. both days

This event is a service project hosted and administered by the Zeta Mu chapter, Alpha Phi Omega chapter at The Catholic University of America with oversight and close coordination with the local BSA District. The Scouts BSA advancement program is administered under the requirements in the 2019 BSA Guide to Advancement sections 7.0.3.2, 7.4.0.9, and 7.4.0.10.

Event PDF

Scouts Trash the Trash Day is an international Messengers of Peace project for Scouts around the world, where each Scout is challenged to bring a friend or family member along and pick up at least one Kilo (2.2 pounds) of trash each on the first Saturday in May.

The idea for Scouts Trash the Trash Day came from the scouts of Troop 1206 in Helena, Montana after realizing that there are several days throughout the year that Scouts get together and do the same thing on the same day. Days like Jamboree on the Air and Internet, Jamboree on the Trail, Trees for the World, World Neckerchief Day, but there was not a day for Scouts to all get together and clean up their communities. Thus Scouts Trash the Trash Day was started. Scouts are asked to bring a non-scout with them on this day of service in order to double the impact of their trash cleaning effort.

Scouts Trash the Trash Day is about more than just cleaning our planet, it is a day to show the world what Scouting is about, educate individuals about Scouting and recruit new boys, girls and adults into the Scouting movement.

For details on how to participate or to register – please visit the Scouts Trash the Trash website.

Troop 7369’s Merit Badge University is being held on April 27th. Registration opens Saturday, March 30th and ends April 20th.

The registration document link containing registration requirements and merit badge pre-requisites can be found on the meritbadge.info website.

Don’t miss the opportunity to earn some exciting and hard to find merit badges.  Classes always fill up quickly.

We look forward to seeing everyone again or meeting you for the first time.

Please email troop7369mbu@gmail.com with questions.

Yours in Scouting,
Renee Geary, Syamala Malladi, & Kris Meade
Troop 7369

At our March Round Table meeting we had a hands on demonstration of ScoutBook.  Thanks to George Sellers, ASM-291 for putting this together for us.  We also had our monthly “To Do” list as well as a brief presentation on Scoutmaster Minutes.  Links to those presentations are below.

March To Do List:  http://tinyurl.com/y5ekl8tg
Scoutmasters Minute:  http://tinyurl.com/y5f7hpmm
At our April Round Table we will have a presentation on bicycling, bicycle safety and bicycle preparation.  Manny Madrid from Griffith Cycles in Bethesda will  be joining us.  Manny is an avid cyclist and is currently in training for a triathlon competition.  Please join us on Thursday, April 11 at 7:30 pm.
Thanks for all that you do,

–Phil Dennis (Seneca District Boy Scout Round Table Commissioner)

Sat., March 30 – 9:00 AM to Noon @ Scout Center
If you are in charge of using the web and social media to recruit and motivate Scout membership, this is the event for you!

Last fall NCAC was part of a national pilot program using Facebook to promote individual packs’ Join Scout Nights. The result? Packs who participated had a 15% increase in new members.
Join us to learn how your unit, district, and council-level recruiting events can get this kind of Scout Spirit!

This workshop will give you the skills you need and help you teach others to be modern communicators. With multiple breakout groups to choose from you will leave with new skills, actionable information, and the ability to train others in your unit or district to be compliant with BSA’s online policies.

Detailed info & free registration online

The annual Program Launch and Scout Exposition 2019 has been scheduled for Wednesday, May 8, 2019.

The Potomac, Seneca and White Oak Districts are inviting Scouts, Scouters and friends to join us for exhibits, fun, and “scout” food at the People’s Community Baptist Church at 31 Norwood Rd in Silver Spring. Doors will open to exhibitors at 5:00 pm and to visitors beginning at 6:00 pm or so.

There is much that is new in Scouting this year and there will be many further messages about our annual gathering which serves as an expanded “roundtable” — an opportunity for us to talk and listen to our community, all of whom are devoted to our youth and families.

Exhibitors will register in advance. Visitors may indicate their interest in advance but will not need to pre-register.

Further information will be provided for exhibitors, visitors and friends.

Please let us know if responsibilities have changed at your address, so that we can provide information correctly.

Geoffrey Wolfe
Program Launch Event 2019
Potomac District, National Capital Area Council

Flyer

A short introduction and contact information for our new DE. Let’s all welcome Ethan Schepp! Sign up and come out to the Seneca District Adult Award Dinner next week (3/26) to meet him.

Ethan Schepp is the District Executive for the Seneca district of the NCAC. Ethan graduated from UMBC and has a media and communications background. Throughout his employment, he has worked in project management, marketing, logistics and sales.

Ethan is a Maryland native and resident of Laytonsville, MD. He lives with his wife and 2 ½ year old son. He enjoys playing guitar, the outdoors, and spending time with friends and family.

Ethan Schepp   Seneca District Executive
BOY SCOUTS OF AMERICA
National Capital Area Council

Marriott Scout Service Center
9190 Rockville Pike
Bethesda, MD 20814
C 240-818-6429
E Ethan.Schepp@Scouting.org

Seneca District is offering Den Chief training on May 19

When: May 19
Time: 2-4:15pm
Where: National Izaak Walton League
707 Conservation Ln
Gaithersburg, Maryland 20878
Cost: Youth $20

Registration

Have children or young family members who engage in community service or are interested in emergency preparedness? Students in 8th, 9th, 10th and 11th grade can apply to serve in FEMA’s Youth Preparedness Council. Applications due by March 31st.
https://www.ready.gov/youth-preparedness-council

A Nautical Philmont ? Think sea going summer camp!
First, we need a Sea Scout Ship
https://seascout.org/news/summer-cruise-opportunities-2/

https://seascout.org/cruising/ Talk to Mike !

A little bit of a ride, but a worthwhile adventure.

No GPS, no batteries, just a long afternoon needed…
(and some shoes ?)
https://www.nps.gov/subjects/nationaltrailssystem/index.htm

What: National Trails meet and greet Steve Elkington
Where: Arch Street Meetinghouse 320 Arch St, Philadelphia, PA 19106
When: 6:30pm Thursday 25 April
Before there were roads, there were the paths we walked on.

Steve Elkinton will talk about mapping and building our nation’s network of trails. Recipient of the 2013 American Trails Lifetime Service Award, Steve served as the program leader for the National Trails System at the National Park Service in Washington, DC, for 25 years, researching, documenting, and supporting trails, many of which were first created by Native American Peoples. What did they mean to our history and why are they important today?

Steve spent a quarter of a century stewarding our nation’s system of outdoor trails. Segment by segment–with important volunteer and community support–he painstakingly assembled the national trail system.

Steve recently published an illustrated history of the trails system and he will have a limited number of copies of his book available for sale.
FREE https://www.pym.org/fellowship/

Sneak up on those pesky fish. Catch and release. How many can you catch?

When: Saturday, May 11
Time: 8am-12pm
Where: Black Hills regional park fishing pier
Cost: $6 per fisherman

Registration (to open shortly)

Has your pack completed their unit Pinewood derby race? Pit those 1st placers against other unit winners in the district. Gentlemen and gentle ladies…Start Your Engines!!

When: Saturday, April 13
Time: 8:30am-12:30pm
Where: Kingsview LDS Church
18900 Kingsview Rd
Germantown, MD
Cost: $35 per PACK

Registration

Archery Day, March 30 (Sat. 1-5pm)
How is your archery skills? Bring your youth and join in on the fun.

When: Saturday, March 30
Time: 1-5pm ET
Where: Lois Green-Sligo Isaac Walton League
8721 Snouffer School Rd
Gaithersburg, MD 20879

Registration

District Adult Court of Honor Dinner,

When: Tuesday, March 26
Time: 6:30-9:00pm
Where: Washington-Rockville Elks, Lodge No. 15
5 Taft Court
Rockville, Md. 20850

Come to honor those receiving SOUSA and District Award of Merit awards and support your units and district for the best of volunteers being honored this year.

Register here

March Round Table will feature a discussion and presentation on using Scoutbook and a talk about Scoutmaster’s Minute.  Please bring along your favorite Scoutmaster Minutes to share with others.

 As of January 1, 2019 Scoutbook is FREE for ALL UNITS.   Scoutbook is a Scout’s advancement book in the cloud. Connect with Scouts, Scouters and other leaders. Discover the latest Boy Scouts of America (BSA) news, thousands of Scouting videos, all the Cub Scout and Boy Scout references and much more right at your finger tips.

Thanks for all that you do,

–Phil Dennis (Seneca District Boy Scout Round Table Commissioner)

Seneca will be offering Level 1 Archery Training.
April 14th, Sunday, 10-4:30
Germantown, MD
Contact Deborah Franklin
Class closed after March 14th.  Manuals need to be ordered
Cost $75

March 7 at 7:30
Vale United Methodist Church, 11528 Vale Rd, Oakton, VA 22124
The course is suitable for scouters and mature scouts. We hope as many units as possible are able to send at least 2 scouts and 1 scouter; this will allow your unit to have youth & adult members qualified to lead Outdoor Ethics at all outdoor events and help your scouts & scouters complete some of the requirements to earn the Outdoor Ethics award for Scouts or NCAC award for Cub Scouts
By the end of the class, the participants should have knowledge of:
-Outdoor Ethics
-Outdoor Code
-How Leave No Trace, Tread Lightly! and The Land Ethic / Stewardship support the Outdoor Code
-Outdoor Ethics Awareness and Action Awards Program
-To locate additional Leave No Trace, Tread Lightly! and BSA Outdoor Ethics resources and opportunities for further training s
Details & register here: https://scoutingevent.com/082-OutdoorEthicsOrientation
Join us for the Cub Scout Roundtable on 3/14/2019 at 7:30 at the Montgomery Village LDS Church, 20020 Montgomery Village Ave, Montgomery Village, MD 20886.
We will be covering the Scout law “Thrifty” and the Theme of “A-Camping We Will Go”.  Our interest topic discussions will include Places to Go and Things to See and Do with your Den and Pack.  Let’s share our ideas and experiences.  We welcome interested parents, and new and experienced Scout leaders.  Ask your questions and share what you know to improve the Scouting experience for all of our Scouts.
Alex
Cub Scout Roundtable Commissioner

In February we held a joint meeting and discussed Arrow of Light and Crossover Ceremonies.  The PowerPoint slides have been uploaded to slideshare.net and can be found at the following location:

https://tinyurl.com/y296gx5r
The Monthly To Do List can be found here:
https://tinyurl.com/yyka3ef2

March Roundtable will feature a discussion and presentation on using Scoutbook.  As of January 1, 2019 Scoutbook is FREE for ALL UNITS.   Scoutbook is a Scout’s advancement book in the cloud. Connect with Scouts, Scouters and other leaders. Discover the latest Boy Scouts of America (BSA) news, thousands of Scouting videos, all the Cub Scout and Boy Scout references and much more right at your finger tips.

Thanks for all that you do,

–Phil Dennis (Seneca District Boy Scout Round Table Commissioner)

Dear Leaders,
As of February 16th, I will be moving to the Washington, DC District to serve as District Director and Outreach Director. While bittersweet, it has been an absolute honor to serve you over the course of the past year. Thank you for embracing me and welcoming me to your Scouting family. We had so many accomplishments but I’m most proud of all the new families we welcomed to Scouting. We made history in 2019!
What I will miss the most are all the smiling Cub Scouts and amazing staff from Day Camp!
District leadership, thank you for mentoring me and the time well spent working together on everything from high profile special events to cooking hot dogs for Cubs. You all have left a lasting impression on me and I will carry your passion for Scouting with me wherever I go.
From Lord Baden-Powell:
“The Movement has already, in the comparatively short period of its existence, established itself onto a wide and so strong a footing as to show most encouraging promise of what may be possible to it in the coming years. Its aim is to produce healthy, happy, helpful citizens, of both sexes, to eradicate the prevailing narrow self-interest; personal, political, sectarian and national, and to substitute for it a broader spirit of self-sacrifice and service in the cause of humanity; and thus to develop mutual goodwill and cooperation not only within our own country but abroad, between all countries.”
Any questions should now be addressed to Michael Werling, District Director, @ Michael.Werling@scouting.org.
Thank you for everything you do in service of our youth.
In Scouting,
Carlos

Meetings have started for Scouts BSA Troop 239

Newly formed Scouts BSA Troop 239, sponsored by Fairhaven United Methodist Church in Gaithersburg, MD
will be meeting on Mondays evenings at 7:30pm on Mondays school is open.
starting in March at Thurgood Marshall ES in Gaithersburg

12260 McDonald Chapel Dr, Gaithersburg, MD 20878

Come join us, invite your friends.

Girls age 11 or completed the 5th grade through age 17 may join.
Contact us to find out more.

Email bsagirltroop239@gmail.com

Fill out our Troop 239 Interest form…
https://goo.gl/forms/lXCPO44jkWl1A8mn2

Web site
http://www.bsa-ncac-troop291.org/home/units/troop-239

Seneca Day Camp online registration is now open @ Gotodaycamp.org.
A packet with fillable forms and information is available here.
All Units –
Have just been advised via FB that the “Print Charter” functionality in my.scouting.org is now operational for your unit.
Please print your charters once you have posted, and deliver to your Charter Organization at the appropriate forum.
Attached are the instructions on how to print a Charter Certificate. National is no longer printing these certificates.
Please let me know if you have any questions. I believe card printing is also still there and running.
YIDS
Commish
Gordon Henley

Cub Scouts Archery Day is Back (flyer at the link)

Mark your calendars Saturday, March 30th
Lois Green-Sligo IWLA, Gaithersburg

Register online for 30 minutes of archery

Debbie

Please confirm your training status at my.Scouting.org. If that system indicates your are trained, please disregard this message. If not, read on!

At the end of February, the online YP Course (Y01) will be replaced with an updated version. Please get the word out to all leaders that any courses in progress (completions of some but not all of the required four modules) will be lost when the course is updated. For example, if a leader had completed one, two, or three of the four modules, but had not completed all four, their completed modules will be erased and they will have to start over again to complete all four required modules. You must have completed all four modules successfully by February 28th, as the new Learning Plan will be launched March 1, 2019.

You must complete the training before March 1, 2019, or any progress you have made will not transfer, due to the new learning plan. Otherwise, you may simply start over with the new training plan on March 1, 2019.

If you HAVE already completed the current Y01 Youth Protection Training:
You WILL NOT be affected. You DO NOT have to retake the training when the March 1, 2019 course is released.

This update will include new policies and procedures implemented since the course was first released in February, 2018, however our Youth Protection and Health and Safety policies, guidelines and procedures are continually being updated and revised. The on-line version of the GTSS [Guide to Safe Scouting] is the single most up to date source of our commitment to Safe Scouting.

[Existing] Youth Protection certifications will continue to be valid for a two year period.

When the course update is complete, four new VOLUNTARY modules will be added and will be available under the “VOLUNTARY programs.” These include:
1. Physical Abuse
2. Neglect
3. Emotional Abuse
4. Witnessing Violence

These new, VOLUNTARY modules will provide leaders with knowledge about other forms of abuse.

Thanks for all you do to continue to keeps Scouts safe!
Mary Lou Gundersen
Seneca Training Lead

The NCAC High Adventure Committee has an urgent need to fill at least two spots on a Sea Base Coral Reef Adventure from July 7th to 13th 2019. There are four (2 adults 2 Scouts) presently in the crew but six is the minimum and eight is max. So at least two more participants are needed to avoid cancelling this trip. Here is what you can expect on this adventure:

“Your home for a week will be on a large sailing vessel over 40 feet long. During the adventure, you will be sailing the Florida Keys and have the chance to snorkel some of the most beautiful reefs in the Keys and part of the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary. You will also have the opportunity to study astronomy, navigation, fish identification, and coral reef ecology. So join us for the Coral Reef Sailing Adventure, sharpen your navigational skills and enjoy snorkeling and fishing all in one package.”

Total estimated cost of $1,950 includes the Sea Base fee, airfare, all ground transportation, meals, tips, a visit to an alligator farm and an airboat ride in the Everglades. A deposit of $700 is required.

If this sounds exciting, well, it is! To start your journey, contact High Adventure Committee Sea Base Liaison Dana Abrahamsen at (202) 326-2906 (work) or dabrahamse@ftc.gov. Download the application here (ignore the trip dates on the form). Submit the form to the address on the form and also send a copy to Dana.

For information on other Trips of a Lifetime offered by the High Adventure Committee, please visit here.

Thank you for helping us fill this trip and send these Scouts to Sea Base!
Yours in Scouting and Service,
John Blackwell
john.blackwell@goosecreekdistrict.org

Meetings have started for Scouts BSA Troop 239
Next Meeting Monday February 11th at 7:30pm at Ridgeview Middle School
16600 Raven Rock Dr, Gaithersburg, MD 20878

Newly formed Scouts BSA Troop 239, sponsored by Fairhaven United Methodist Church in Gaithersburg, MD will be meeting on Mondays evenings at 7:30pm
starting in March at Thurgood Marshall ES in Gaithersburg

12260 McDonald Chapel Dr, Gaithersburg, MD 20878

Come join us, invite your friends.

Girls age 11 or completed the 5th grade through age 17 may join.
Contact us to find out more.

Email bsagirltroop239@gmail.com

Fill out our Troop 239 Interest form…
https://goo.gl/forms/lXCPO44jkWl1A8mn2

Web site
http://www.bsa-ncac-troop291.org/home/units/troop-239

NYLT is an exciting, action-packed program designed for youth to learn and practice the leadership skills that will help them succeed in Scouting and in life!

Several options exist for Summer.  Click to learn more.

This is the ultimate Scout training around.  Two heavy duty weekends.

Need to get yourself fully trained? Registration is open for Introduction to Outdoor Leader Skills.
Going camping? Registration is open for Basic Adult Leader Outdoor Orientation.

Seneca District – this is a local class for us in April – it will be held in Germantown.

What is the purpose of this class? The Cub Scout, Boy Scout, Varsity Scout, Venturing, and Sea Scout programs all include outdoor stewardship, care for the environment, and Leave No Trace as part of their programs. This course is offered to train adults and youth aged 14+ to serve their units and districts as Leave No Trace Trainers and as Outdoor Ethics Trainers.

Every Cub Scout, Boy Scout, Varsity Scout, Venturing, and Sea Scout unit should have at least one Leave No Trace/Outdoor Ethics Trainer. This course is strongly recommend for Scouts serving, or wishing to serve, in the Troop Outdoor Ethics Guide position. Who should attend? Venturers, Sea Scouts, Varsity Scouts, and Boy Scouts aged 14+; adult Cub Scout, Boy Scout, Varsity, Venturing, and Sea Scout leaders; and District and Council leaders and trainers.

What will I learn? This course is designed to enhance your understanding of Leave No Trace practices and outdoor ethics, and to increase your level of expertise and confidence in teaching Leave No Trace skills. This class is both active and highly interactive. You will be introduced to concepts and methods that will advance your knowledge of Leave No Trace issues in both developed and high adventure environments, expand your repertoire of low-impact skills, and increase your effectiveness in teaching these important skills to others.

Germantown, MD  Sat-Sun April 6-7 https://scoutingevent.com/082-LNTMD1  (Friday evening 4/5 is optional)
Questions? Contact Paul Schimke, paul@schimke.org or 301 906 0069 (c)
— or —
Camp Snyder, Haymarket, VA  March 30-31 https://scoutingevent.com/082-24711
Questions? Contact Victor Bieniek, vbieniek@gmail.com, 703-855-8428 (c)
— or —
Bryans Road, MD June 1-2 https://scoutingevent.com/082-LNTSMD
Questions? Contact Mike Strong, stronbsart@gmail.com, 301-861-6568 (c)

Paul Schimke
Leave No Trace Master Educator
Maryland Leave No Trace State Advocate
Leopold Education Project Facilitator
Tread Trainer
NCAC Outdoor Ethics Committee
301 906 0069 (cell)

The following Merit Badges have a new version due to updated requirements. Scouts that have started the previous version of these Merit Badges may continue working on that version. Scouts who are just starting on these Merit Badges must use the 2019 version. Scoutbook will likely be the first recipient of these changes and we are sure the BSA websites, volunteer websites (e.g., USScouts.Org, MeritBadge.org), and third party software will follow. The 2019 Requirements book is not in the Scout Store yet, but we will let you know when it arrives. Note three of these merit badges are Eagle required merit badges.

Montgomery Village Welcomes Scouts, BSA Troop for Girls

Newly formed Scouts BSA Troop 1920, sponsored by the BPO Elks Lodge #15 Rockville/Washington is now meeting on Wednesday evenings at 7pm at the Whetstone Community Center in Montgomery Village, MD.  Come join us, invite your friends.
Girls age 11 or completed the 5th grade through age 17 may join.  Extensions for 16+ year olds Scouts to earn Eagle are available. Contact us to find out more.
Alex Pranger, cc@troop1920.com
Seneca Day Camp online registration is now open @ Gotodaycamp.org.
A packet with fillable forms and information will be emailed to you this weekend.
If you are a Day Camp Coordinator and do not receive this information please email me at  senecadistrictcubscoutdaycamp@gmail.com. The dates are June 24th-28th. Summer is on its way!!
Scouts BSA – Come have fun with the Lion and Tiger Cubs.  Volunteers are needed to help with set up and the running of the annual Tiger 500.  March 2, 8am to 11am (if you can’t stay the whole time that’s fine) at Kingsview LDS Church in Germantown.  Please contact Jennifer Chen at jennifer_in_dc@yahoo.com for more information.  Scoutmasters – please pass this on to your patrols.

Take on the fun and challenge of playing chess!  The Akela Chess Classic is a five-round chess tournament open to all Cub Scouts from Tigers through Arrow of Light.  Tournament play is in two brackets: Tigers/Wolves and Bears/Webelos/Arrow of Light.

Participants must know the rules of chess as there will be no instruction on site at the tournament.  Tournament play is touch-move, meaning if a player touches a piece he must move it.  Games are at a time limit of one hour.

Registration

February 14th, 2019 7:30pm
Montgomery Village LDS Church
20020 Montgomery Village Ave, Montgomery Village, MD 20886.
We know it’s Valentine’s Day, and what better way to show your Love for your Children and the Scouts you work with than to be the best trained and informed leader you can possibly be. The Roundtable is here for experienced leaders to share their knowledge, tips and tricks and for new leaders, or those who may become leaders soon to get help for how to put on Pack and Den programs, run fun events and activities, and get answers to questions or to help resolve challenges that you may face.
We will be focusing on the Scout Law point of “Trustworthy” and a theme: “Let the Games Begin”. We will cover interest topics of “The Webelos to Scout Transition: Preparation and Ceremonies”.
As you may be aware, the Boy Scouts of America no longer allows American Indian regalia to be used as a part of Arrow of Light or Webelos Crossover ceremonies. Both the Scouts BSA and Cub scout roundtables will work together to discuss making a meaningful and effective transition and awards ceremony for your Cub Scouts and the Scouts BSA Scouts that welcome them. We discuss how to prepare your scouts for the transition and alternative ceremonies that will be just as meaningful.
If you cannot attend, or even if you can, why not invite another member of your den or pack to join us and help get the information to help you and them.
We look forward to working with you.
Alex Pranger (Cub Scout Roundtable Commissioner)

At our February meeting we will have a joint-session with the Cub Scouts to discuss the new policies regarding ceremonies and  Native American regalia.  We’ll be offering up a couple of different alternatives and we hope that units will bring their ideas forward as well.  In our break out session, we will have a presentation on Scout Book.

Thanks for all that you do,

–Phil Dennis (Seneca District Boy Scout Roundtable Commissioner)

Milkweed for Monarchs Kick-off
Saturday, February 17th from 11 am to Noon
@ The National Arboretum
Milkweed for Monarchs, Inspiring Conservation in Scouts and Their Families, is presented by the National Capital Area Council, Boy Scouts of America and hosted by the United States National Arboretum. Please join us to celebrate the start of this new monarch butterfly conservation program and be the first to get your seeds and commemorative patches!

Register Now

What is “Milkweed for Monarchs?”
In February 2018, The National Capital Area Council will kick-off Milkweed for Monarchs, a massive conservation project to protect and promote sustainable habitat for the monarch butterfly. One of nature’s most recognized and beautiful butterflies, the Monarch has been in decline in recent years, seeing a 1/3 decrease in its “overwintering” count from February 2016 to February 2017. A sign of spring for many, the Monarch is also a vital food source for other animals in the local ecosystem, and consequently, their dwindling numbers could have profound effects on the food chain. Many factors are at play, including environmental considerations and a loss of habitat.

Scouts are looking to help arrest and reverse this trend. The caterpillars that eventually become the monarch depend upon milkweed as their food source. With Milkweed for Monarchs, Scouts will be encouraging not just the protection of existing stands of milkweed, but the planting and cultivation of more of this vital monarch food stuff. How can you help? Simple. Protect milkweed where you see it and plant more. It’s not a difficult plant to cultivate. Because milkweed is a perennial, once you plant it and establish it this spring, your plants will return the following year to help feed the next generation of monarch caterpillars.

Questions? Please email your queries to ncacmonarchs@ncacbsa.org.

University of Scouting is a supplemental training opportunity offering over 200 courses for adult Scout leaders in all program areas (Cub Scouts, Scouts BSA, Venturing, Sea Scouting, and District Operations). There is a Scouting Museum and a Midway with more than 50 displays. Whether you are new to Scouting or a veteran the University of Scouting has something for everyone.
Register Now!
Featured this year will be a new class on Family Scouting, Opportunities and Risks, ELC100, presented by Gary Schroeder, BSA National Pilots Chairman. He will offer a detailed description of the many opportunities, and some of the risks, of the new Family Scouting program along with the philosophy and background behind the initiation of Family Scouting.
The College of Cub Scouting provides courses ranging from pack administration to planning for an outdoor program.
The College of Scouts, BSA provides an exciting variety of troop, patrol and outdoor planning supplemental courses to help manage the challenges of a great troop experience.
The College of Adventure Scouting offers courses for those wanting to learn more about Scouting’s “senior” level programs and the challenges of an active high adventure experience.
The College of Elective Programs offers many “general studies courses” that cut across all the program areas. Just about everything from diversity and special needs to using technology can be found in the Elective Programs. STEM Scouts will be covered as a subprogram (ELC500 classes) within the Electives College
The College of District Operations provides training to district committee members and scouters with an interest how the district works. While no degree is conferred, those who take the required three courses are awarded the BSA District Scouter Training Certificate and “Trained” patch.
Online early registration ($40) will open in early January and close midnight Sunday, February 17, 2019. After February 17, tuition increases to $60. Register early!

This month we will have a presentation on ScoutBook. We will also be welcoming new leaders from the girl units in our district. As usual we will have our monthly To Do list for all leaders.

Phil Dennis

Cub Scout Roundtable

February 14th, 2019 7:30pm
Montgomery Village LDS Church
20020 Montgomery Village Ave, Montgomery Village, MD 20886.
 

We know it’s Valentine’s Day, and what better way to show your Love for your Children and the Scouts you work with than to be the best trained and informed leader you can possibly be.  The Roundtable is here for experienced leaders to share their knowledge, tips and tricks and for new leaders, or those who may become leaders soon to get help for how to put on Pack and Den programs, run fun events and activities, and get answers to questions or to help resolve challenges that you may face.  

We will be focusing on the Scout Law point of “Trustworthy” and a theme: “Let the Games Begin”.  We will cover interest topics of “The Webelos to Scout Transition: Preparation and Ceremonies”.

As you may be aware, the Boy Scouts of America no longer allows American Indian regalia to be used as a part of Arrow of Light or Webelos Crossover ceremonies.  Join us as we discuss how to prepare your scouts for the transition and alternative ceremonies that will be just as meaningful.

If you cannot attend, or even if you can, why not invite another member of your den or pack to join us and help get the information to help you and them.

We look forward to working with you.
Alex Pranger

National is running a geotargeted ad buy to promote Scouts BSA similar to the one they did in fall for Cub Scout JSNs. In brief:

In the fall JSN program, packs with geotargeted ads had a 15% better recruiting season, so we expect this Scouts BSA program to help jumpstart the program’s launch.

We are looking for 20 troops to participate in this program! If your troop would like to be part of it, please send me:

We need the full list of participants by Wednesday, Jan. 23, so if you would like to participate please let me know by then.

Thank you,
Carlos

SAVE THIS WEEK!! Cub Scout Day Camp dates for 2019 are June 24th-28th. The theme is “Beneath the Sea”. It will be held at Madison Fields in Dickerson. Registration (by your Day Camp Coordinator) opens online on February 1st. More information will be forthcoming soon.

All Remaining Recharter Not Finished Units –
NEXT RECHARTER TURN IN THIS THURSDAY
24 January 2019
7 PM  LDS Montgomery Village (out Montgomery Village Ave well past McDonalds)
Montgomery LDS Church
20020 Montgomery Village Ave
Montgomery Village, MD 20886
PLEASE BRING your Recharter Printout, Check, Charter Org Agreement, and JTE if not submitted. New apps and JTEs as needed to support your roster.
See you Thursday
YIDS
Commish
Gordon Henley

At our January Round Table meeting, we discussed a list of things that units should be looking at for the upcoming months.  We also discussed Parent Coaching and how to get the most out of your parents.  The links below are will take you to the PowerPoint presentations.

Monthly To Do List:  https://tinyurl.com/y97paorr
Parent Coaching:  https://tinyurl.com/y8lzcx33
February Round Table will discuss ScoutBook and how to use it in your unit.
Thanks for all that you do,

–Phil Dennis (Seneca District Boy Scout Round Table Commissioner)