The Blackhawk
COURIERA Publication of Blackhawk Area Council
As mentioned in all previous communication sent to you, the health • Charter Renewal information can be found here and safety of our Scouting families, Scouts, volunteers, staff, and their • At this time, all Units should try to complete their paperwork family members remain our number one priority in the Blackhawk as quickly as possible and converse with your District Area Council. Executive for help in doing so.
Thank you for your flexibility and understanding during this Information about Eagle Scout extensions and advancement questions difficult time. I have been so encouraged and proud to see so many and Scouting from Home can be found here of our Scouts and Scouters overcome the adversity that we have been • Virtual Board of Reviews: The Blackhawk Area Council propelled into over the last several months during this global pandemic. Advancement has approved the use of virtual board of With the State of Illinois moving into Phase 3 of the Reopening Illinois reviews for Eagle projects. plan, and Wisconsin opening up I wanted to share some guidelines • Should you need a signature, it can be gained digitally/email with you as many have started to ask questions about moving forward request and provided with the paperwork with your Scouting units. • Eagle Extensions: If an Eagle extension is required ALL UNITS are to follow the Guidelines for Face-to-Face Meetings due to COVID-19 please follow this process: EAGLE and Activities until we can move into Phase 4. We have had extensive EXTENSION PROCESS conversations with our risk management committee, insurance brokers, National office, as well as Illinois and Wisconsin Department of Health Please check out our Blackhawk Area Council Scouting at Home to formulate these guidelines for our Council safety. Resource Page where we have assembled some great resources from • The Grant Pilgrimage has been re-scheduled to September 25-27, around the Country to help you and your Scouts continue to stay active 2020 during this time. More updates regarding district specific events and • We have rescheduled the Council Pinewood Derby as a virtual trainings have been shared and continue to be shared through our online event and you can find all the information here: INFO FOR hub located here. PINEWOOD DERBY. Please make sure you are registered for our hub site at www. • Day camps scheduled at Boone County Conservation (June 10- blackhawkhub.org. All communication for the Council is posted on 12 and 15-17), McHenry County (June 22-25), and Lancaster, our hub and funneled from the site and you can tailor what information Wisconsin (June 22-25) will not be held in person. However, you would like to receive from us and at what frequency. we are excited to bring you our first ever virtual day camp with activities for all Cub Scouts and friends! Join us for Backyard I want to thank you for staying positive through these times and Scouting. Day Camp plans are underway and registration will be keeping Scouting on the forefront for our future leaders. As we have open soon: Backyard Day Camp Info all seen the news over the last several days it is imperative that we • All SERVICE CENTERS will open June 2, 2020 with special continue to come together as an organization more than ever as our GUIDELINES FOR OPENING. Please call ahead if you need to youth and communities need Scouting. schedule an appointment to meet with a staff member as we are Finally, as Scouts, it is important that we demonstrate the principles still limiting the number of people in our buildings to maintain of the Scout Law now more than ever before. As regulations begin to social distancing guidelines. loosen individuals within your Scout unit may have varying levels • Our Council Camps are currently establishing a plan to safely of comfort or anxiety. It is our responsibility to be kind while being open for day activities and camping with your families. Please helpful and friendly and demonstrate empathy and respect to everyone, watch the Blackhawk Hub (www.blackhawkhub.org) for details. even if they have beliefs different from ours. As we move forward • The PROGRAM CENTER will remain CLOSED let’s be cheerful and brave while showing reverence to the rules, • The Crystal Lake Scout Shop and Rockford Scout Shop will open regulations, and guidance of our State, Counties, Cities, and Chartered on June 9, 2020. Organizations. If you have any specific questions about Scouting during these turbulent times, please email me at [email protected]. Sincerely, Page 2 June 2020
Dear Friend of Scouting, We hope this message finds your family well during these unprecedented times we are facing togeth- er. The Blackhawk Area Council cannot stress enough to you that our Scouting community’s well-being remains our top priority. We are committed to being courteous to you by doing our part to flatten the curve.Just as your family has adapted to a new normal in the face of COVID-19, so has Scouting. Our programs prepare youth for unprecedented challenges such as those we’re facing today and Scouting still provides learning -op portunities, positive role models, and lifelong values even when we are Scouting from home. Typically, during this time of year, we would hold our Friends of Scouting (FOS) presentations at local Scouting meetings.This campaign is crucial to the survival and health of our local Scouting programs. The funds raised through this campaign create opportunities that foster self-confidence, ethical deci- sion-making, respect for others, and leadership abilities. It is also important to know that FOS keeps the Blackhawk Area Council operational. The financial im- pact of COVID-19 can be felt across the world, and our Council is not immune. While our Scouts may be at home right now, we want to be ready to provide uninterrupted support and programming when this crisis ends. To do that, your help is necessary now more than ever before. We are busy moving forward with plans for summer camp and have exciting new programs to roll out when this time is lifted. It’s more than a gift – it’s an investment in the future of Scouting. Regarding the National Boy Scouts of America financial position, we assure you, your donation to our Friends of Scouting goes straight to supporting Scouting locally in our communities today and are not funding the bankruptcy of the National Office of the BSA. We humbly ask that you make your Friends of Scouting contribution today. We would also like to bring to your attention a recent change due to the economic stimulus package. There will be additional tax incentives for contributing to our Council.The CARES Act includes a new “above-the-line” deduction for taxpayers who do not itemize for total charitable contributions of up to $300 ($600 for a married couple.) The incentive applies to contributions made in 2020 and would be claimed on the tax forms next year. If you are unable to make a cash gift today, you can make a pledge and pay later! You can visit www.blackhawkhub.org to give online at your earliest convenience. We understand that businesses and organizations are struggling right now, and so are many families. If your family is not able to give to Friends of Scouting this year, please let us know so that you do not receive further FOS follow up from us. Scouting should never be a burden to your family. Thank you for your support of our programs, and we hope and pray that your family remains healthy and safe in the next months as we row through these uncharted waters.
Sincerely,
Scott Seibert Dr. Kristoffer Tumilowicz, DMD Scout Executive/CEO Board President Boy Scouts of America, Blackhawk Area Council Boy Scouts of America, Blackhawk Area Council Page 3 Membership June 2020
MEMO
Ju t taff uti ommitt uti oar a olu t rs ott i rt out uti atio al m rs i at atio al m rs i r as
Earlier this month, the executive board of the National Council of the Boy Scouts of America approved a membership fee increase for all Scouting programs effective August 1, 2020. This decision was made after much deliberation and operational adjustments over the past six months from the National Council. The new membership fees are as follows:
Beginning August 1st, 2020: - $66 for youth members in Cub Scouts, Scouts BSA, Venturing and Sea Scouts (previously $60) - $42 for youth members in Exploring (previously $36) - $42 for adult members in all programs; Unit, District, or Board levels (previously $36) - $75 Unit Charter Renewal Fee (previously $60) - $25 NEW YOUTH MEMBER FEE o There is now a one-time new member fee of $25.00 for all new youth of traditional programs (Cub Scouts, Scouts, BSA, Venturing, and Sea Scouts). This fee will be assessed regardless of when a youth member joins. The new member fee is for youth only. This fee does not apply to any currently enrolled youth, any participant of the Exploring program, adult volunteers, or youth Unit-to-Unit transfers.
Beginning October 1st, 2020, all above fees will be in affect for Unit Charter Renewal for all current members.
We know that these new fees will be an adjustment for many of our Scouting families and Units. Our Council Executive Board will continue to be committed to supporting any family that would like a Scouting experience but doesn’t have the resources to afford one. Each district’s volunteer membership chair and professional staff member will have information for any families that need assistance.
As we all begin to execute and plan for our Summer and Fall programs, whether in person or virtually, Scouting is still a great program to invest in for your son and/or daughter. The timeless values of Scouting will continue to provide this nation’s youth the skills to be the leaders of tomorrow. We look forward to your continued support as we navigate these unprecedented waters. Please find attached a fee infographic and local Council Charter fee structure for further guidance.
Sincerely,
Scott Seibert Dr. Kris Tumilowicz Scout Executive/CEO Board President
Page 4 Membership June 2020 What Do the National Fees Support? Every dollar of the national membership fee will go toward the cost of essential services, including liability insurance for those participating in approved Scouting activities, program resources, safety standards, youth protection and personal safety training, and services to councils nationwide to sustain Scouting. The National organization will also continue to develop and improve resources that support our volunteers and youth members such as online registration, Member Care and Scoutbook, which now includes the Den Leader experience to ensure the safe and consistent delivery of Cub Scouting; as well as improvements aimed at simplifying the annual renewal process. In Blackhawk Area Council, we will continue to bring Scouting to our communities and family through excellent program opportunities, two beautiful and exciting camp properties, two service centers, and nearly 300 packs, troops, crews, ships, and posts across northern IL and southwestern WI. For further information on National fees, please visit the FAQ site here: https://scoutingwire.org/bsa-membership-fee-increase- details-and-faq/
Reminder of Council Charter Dates & Fee Increases By District As mentioned, at the end of 2020, all Units will renew for the entire year of 2021. This will remain as the renewal period for future years and moving forward, all Unit Charters, matching the Journey to Excellence, will be from January – December and renewal will begin in October with Charter Renewal paperwork distribution to our Units.
2021 and Beyond Charter Renewal Dates Beginning Month Charter Renewal Month Arrowhead January December Sycamore January December Wanchanagi January December Wetassa January December White Eeagle January December **The fee chart structure for a Unit is attached at the end of this document
2020 Council Insurance Fee Reminder: Announced in 2019
What is the insurance fee? The insurance fee is an annual fee of $8.00 that will be charged to all registered participants in the Scouting program beginning with Charter Renewal for 2020 and continue for Unit Charter Renewal 2021.
What does the insurance fee cover? The Blackhawk Area Council, in addition to National General Liability Insurance, purchases annual insurance to cover our properties and assets including buildings, equipment, and vehicles against loss and damage.
Additionally, the Council insurance purchases provide: • Accident and Sickness Insurance for registered Scouts, Volunteers, and Participants • General Liability Insurance for Volunteers and Chartered Organization Partners • Property & Equipment • Automobile • Event and Activity Insurance
Does the Blackhawk Area Council review its insurance policies and rates periodically? Yes. The Blackhawk Area Council conducts annual insurance review to review our current coverages and insurance premiums to provide good fiscal stewardship. In addition, the review process included an extensive evaluation of our current policies and coverages to ensure that our facilities, camps, vehicles and equipment are insured appropriately. The cost of our insurance continues to exceed the Blackhawk Area Council’s resources based on current annual revenue (comprised of charitable Page 5 Council News June 2020 Council Calendar Membership for a New June Challenge 21 Father’s Day 26 Deadline to register pinewood derby Recruiting new families to Join Scouting is car vital for the continued success of the Scouting Program and more importantly to serve the youth in our communities and prepare them to be July successful community minded adults. 2-7 NYLT Cancelled With our current situation navigating the 3 Council service center closed pandemic it is more important than ever to 4 Independence Day, council service promote Scouting through social media. Visit center closed the membership channel on the Blackhawk. 7 Courier deadline, August Internet Join Cub Scouts Issue ihubapp.org. Downloadable images are Joining Cub Scouts Benefits the Whole 11 Scout Night with the Rivets, Rockford available if you are not happy with photos from Family and Creates Adventure! 15` Trail’s End Popcorn Webinar your unit. Even during unprecedented times, Cub 15 #CayonLowdenDay If you unit does not have a Facebook page, Scouts benefits families by providing: 15 Council-Wide Popcorn Kickoff it is important to take some time to make one and • Positive family time 18 Virtual Pinewood Derby begin promoting Scouting in your community. • A Community of Support 23 Trail’s End Popcorn Webinar is also another website • Self-confidence and Resilience Beascout.org interested families are directed to learn more Development about scouting. There is search function based on • Life Long Skills and Memories August Zip codes, all units are listed. It is vital to update • Activities to look forward to including 2-7 NYLT Cancelled your units Pin so interested families in your (but definitely not limited to!): 4 Courier deadline, September printed community can find your unit. • Pinewood Derby Races edition Cubmaster/ Scoutmaster, committee chair, • Day Camp Fun 7 Last day to register for Annie Oakley and charter representatives have access to update Shooting Event • Adventures in historic Galena, 21-22 Annie Oakley Shooting Event, Camp Illinois, with other Scouts and the Beascout.org Pin. This must be done Lowden their families through your my.scouting.org account and is • So much more! under organizational manager.
Cancelled or Interested in joining the fun? Peer to Peer recruiting. Postponed Share Scouting is our current theme for NYLT Click on https://beascout.scouting. recruiting more youth. Each Scout who recruits Rockford Rivets Baseball Game org/ to Join Cub Scouts a friend to Join will receive this patch. Please visit the membership channel for the Google Check out this fun page – https:// form to submit the names of youth that recruit blackhawkhub.org/posts/52890/ a friend. Make sure all the families in your unit Special Article Index scouting-from-home-resources – for know about this program. at-home activities that you can do with your And, hey, Scouting is more fun if your 2 Friends of Scouting family right now! friends are in it with you. 3-4 Membership Sign-up here on our Hub to get all of 7 2020 Fall Popcorn Sale the latest information on programs being 8-9 Virtual Pinewood Derby offered. Take a look around! 10 Merit Badge Requirement Updates Welcome to Cub Scouts and Blackhawk 11 Digital Safety and Online Scouting 12 When an Incident Happens 13 P.R.A.Y. News 14 2020-2021 Okpik 15-16 National Scout Jamboree 17-18 Friends of Scouting 20 Training 22 Backyard Virtual Cub Scout Day Camp 21 Annie Oakley Event 23 #CanyonLowdenDay 23 2021 Summer Camp Registration 24 Webelos & Arrow of Light Summer camp 25-27 Sycamore District 28-29 Wanchanagi District 30-31 White Eagle District 32 Wetassa District 33 Arrowhead District Page 6 Council News June 2020
Schedule for Printed and Internet Couriers Journey to Excellence Scoring There are four printed editions each year. The deadline for Internet and printed editions will be the first Tuesday of each month. Will Be Adjusted in Light of The latest schedule is shown below. The printed editions will continue to be available at www. BlackhawkScouting.org/courier. Note that COVID-19 recipients of the Eagle Scout Award and religious emblems will only be carried in printed editions -- and will not show up on the Internet versions of the printed edition. When you planned a big spring event for your pack, troop, crew or ship last year, you weren’t counting on a global pandemic disrupting Clip and Save everything. The same can be said about the volunteers who created the 2020 Deadline + Type Months Covered Mail Date or Journey to Excellence scorecards. Web Target Date Journey to Excellence, often shortened to JTE, is a self-evaluation July 6 – Internet August through October Jul 14 tool that lets unit leaders see, quantitatively, how well their unit is meeting the goals of Scouting. JTE scorecards are updated each year to August 4 – Printed September through August 18 reflect feedback from unit leaders like you. (Want an overview of JTE? November Read our explainer here.) Sept. 8 – Internet October through December September 17 “We made certain assumptions in creating the JTE standards,” says Neil Lupton, chairman of the BSA’s National Assessment and Evaluation Oct. 6 – Printed November through January October 20 Committee. “Those assumptions fail in the face of the coronavirus.” That’s why the committee has announced that it will re-evaluate and revise JTE requirements once the coronavirus threat is diminished and the country’s path forward becomes more clear. “As always, JTE should be helpful and encouraging to all in Scouting,” says Jeff Rand, Lupton’s professional counterpart on the committee and leader of the BSA’s performance management team. Scouting Isn’t on Pause Blackhawk Area Council While JTE requirements will need to change for 2020, it’s worth noting that Scouting itself hasn’t been paused during the lockdown. Hours, Phone, Address It’s been truly inspiring to see Scouts continue meeting, serving others and having fun while everyone is at home. And the BSA’s brilliant Staff can be reached via email. See district rosters. Scouting at Home initiative, developed in a matter of days, gives families exciting, meaningful activities they can safely enjoy at home. Phone numbers: But some JTE standards cannot realistically be met during stay- Council office 815-397-0210 at-home orders — at least not as written on the scorecard. That’s why Web Sites: www. BlackhawkHub.org Lupton and his fellow volunteers are planning to revise the standards once it’s reasonable to do so. The Scouting at Home activities you’re National Scout Shop -- Rockford: 815-637-6180 doing now will meet many of those new requirements. Address: 2820 McFarland Road, Rockford IL 61107 “In the interim, units, districts, and councils should use the Journey Scout Shop hours: to Excellence standards in addition to other planning tools, but all 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., Monday through Friday should be tempered with realism and with the need for safety for all,” 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday Lupton says. “As far as revisions to the Journey to Excellence standards or changes in the requirements for gold, silver and bronze, it’s premature National Scout Shop -- Crystal Lake: 815-479-0615 to make any such decisions.” Address: 600 N. Rt. 31, Crystal Lake IL 60012 Scout Shop Hours: 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday Page 7 2020 Fall Popcorn Sale June 2020 2020 Fall Popcorn Sale Training Webinars and Kickoff Dates
To Unit leadership and Popcorn Kernels, Trail’s End Facebook Group for Help and Ideas As we continue to navigate the future of the popcorn sale, we have You will then have the option to join the Trail’s End Facebook some information we’d like to provide you as we move forward. We group. We highly suggest this as it is the quickest way to get answers want to make sure we are presenting you with the best sale possible to and discussion from volunteers like yourself from experienced kernels help offset your program and membership fees for your families in the around the country. You can join directly by going to https://www. Fall. facebook.com/groups/868382320032192/. This is also available on your unit dashboard. Unit Kernel/Leader and Parent Webinar Training Opportunities: Trail’s End has put together several training webinars for both Unit As we move forward, more information will be regularly updated Kernels and parents. Please sign up as these webinars will supplement the information and placed on our Fall popcorn site www.blackhawkhub.org/c/ we receive at our Council Popcorn Kickoffs this year. There are several popcorn. dates and times and we highly encourage your attendance so you can have the best possible sale and fund your programs. Thank you all for your continued service to Scouting and preparing Please register for a webinar at https://www.trails-end.com/ for a great Fall sale! webinars Dane Boudreau Director of Field Service/ COO Council Fall Popcorn Kickoffs July 15 and July 23
Fall popcorn kickoffs are spent focusing on specific dates and items for the local council. At this meeting, you will find out more about specific sale dates, ordering processes, delivery dates and locations, and much more. This year, due to concern for safety of our volunteers, in concert with Trail’s End Popcorn, the council will be hosting two Popcorn Kickoff Webinars. Unit leaders only need to attend one of the kickoffs. These will be held on Wednesday, July 15 and Thursday, July 23. The program will be from 6:00-7:00 p.m. with a Q and A to follow from 7:00-7:30 p.m. Meeting information will be sent out at a later date.
Register Your Unit Online Now for the Fall Sale Now is the time to register your unit on the Trail’s End online dashboard for the Fall sale. This will also be discussed during the webinar trainings, but if you’re ready now, we’re ready! Here are some instructions to register your unit: • Go to https://www.trails-end.com/leader • Click “Register Your Unit” Choose between two options and should fill out the form as the PRIMARY contact for your unit: 1 Register yourself (You are the primary contact) 2 Register on behalf of another leader (You are entering the primary contact information for another person) • Then select: 1. Council: Blackhawk Area Council 2. District: Select the district where your unit “lives.” If you are unsure, please look at our district map: https://blackhawkhub.org/posts/35086/about- blackhawk 3. Unit: Select the unit you represent (if for any reason your unit does not appear on the list; please contact us and we’ll get you fixed up right away)
At this point, fill out all of the contact information and click “Continue” You will then be approved by council staff and receive an email from Trail’s End (check your Junk and Spam) with your User Name and a password to log you into your Unit dashboard. • All units that have previously requested a login have been Page 8 Virtual Pinewood Derby June 2020 Virtual Pinewood Derby 2020 - FAQs
1) Will there be a race on May 30-31st? No. Due to state and Scouting Covid regulations we can not hold an in-person race on May 30- 31st and preparations for our virtual race will not be complete in time for this race date. 2) Will the race be held at Pecatonica HS? No. Due to state Covid regulations the race can not be held at Pecatonica High School. 3) Do I have to register through my pack? No. You can register Virtual Council Pinewood Derby individually. This is not a pack event. July 18 4) I didn’t win in my unit’s race/design competition can I still compete? YES! All Cub Scouts, Scouts BSA and Venturers are welcome to 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. race in their own designated race. Even your non-Scouting siblings Time to restart those engines. Blackhawk Area Council Pinewood and friends, 17 and under, can race. Derby is going virtual this year. 5) Do I have to race the car I raced in my units’ race? No. you can race This unique and exciting race is open to all Cub Scouts, Scouts BSA/ any car that meets the race specifications (Please see leader guide Venturing youth and non-Scout youth under 18 years old. Regardless of section 8 for rules) whether you placed at the unit-level race or have not raced at all, races 6) Can I rerace a car from this year in the 2021 race that I built in 2020 if are open to everyone. I choose not to run it in the virtual race? No. New cars ust be built for each new pinewood season, and you may not start building for Date: Saturday, July 18 (video of races will be shown online) next season until AFTER the BAC pinewood race. Cost: $5 per vehicle; automatically entered into the Best Design 7) Can I build a new car? Yes. Car kits can be obtained from the Competition Scoutstuff.org website. If your area Scout shops reopen they Register at: will also have cars. If Hobby Lobby reopens they usually carry car https://blackhawkscouting.doubleknot.com/event/virtual- kits and items as well. 8) How will prepaid fees for packs that have already been registered pinewood-derby-2020/2684866 for this year’s pinewood be handled? Each unit that has prepaid How Does It Work their Unit’s registration will be contacted by a BAC representative and given the choice to have their fees refunded or put towards Register your youth online registration for the BAC Pinewood 2021 Race • Work together as a family to design a car (Pinewood Derby kits are 9) Can I participate in ONLY the race or ONLY design? No. All Cub available at www.scoutshop.org) Scouts registered will be entered into BOTH competitions. • Submit your car to one of the designated Drop-off Locations 10) Can Scouts BSA, Venturers or non-sSouting participants compete • Volunteers will race the cars while recording the action in Design? No. Only registered Cub Scouts will compete in design • Each car will race three times and the average time will determine 11) Can I vote on more than one car in each rank? No. Each Facebook the placement profile may only vote or “like” ONE car in each rank. • Top 4 timed cars will race in a final round to determine the 12) Should Scouts be allowed to vote in design? YES!!! Please allow championship your Scout to use your Facebook profile, with your supervision, to vote on their favorite car in each rank Race Divisions 13) Can I, or my Scout watch the races live? No. Unfortunately due to Non-Scouts (under 18 years of age) State and Scouting Covid regulations only designated Pinewood Cub Scouts - Lion (Kindergarten) staff and sponsors are allowed at the racing venue Cub Scouts - Tiger (First Grade) 14) Will races be broadcasted live? No. Due to the length of time it will Cub Scouts - Wolf (Second Grade) take to run the races all races will be run and recorded on July 11th Cub Scouts - Bear (Third Grade) and posted later. Cub Scouts - Webelos (Fourth Grade) 15) Can I bring my car to the racing venue on the day of the race? No. Cub Scouts - Arrow of Light (Fifth Grade) All cars must be securely packaged in a shoe box sized container Scouts BSA / Venturing (Sixth Grade & older) and dropped off at a designated drop off spot ONLY during drop off dates and times. When and where will be announced as soon Drop-off Locations as possible Tumilowicz Center for Scouting - 2820 McFarland Road, Rockford, Ill. 16) How do I get my car to the race? All cars must be dropped off a Crystal Lake Service Center - 600 N Route 31, Crystal Lake, Ill. designated drop off points no later than June 30th 17) Can I have someone else drop off my car? Yes. Anyone can drop Resources cars off. If your pack chooses to drop them off in one group that Race Guide - BAC-Virtual-Pinewood-Derby-Race-Guide-2020.pdf is great, too. Race FAQs - BAC-Virtual-Pinewood-Derby-Race-FAQ-2020.pdf 18) Can I just hand you a car without a container? No all cars must be Participant Card - BAC-Virtual-Pinewood-Derby-ID-Card-2020.pdf secured in a shoebox sized container with a Virtual Pinewood 2020 ID completely filled out and SECURLY attached to the container top. 19) Can I race if I haven’t registered? No. All racers must preregister on Doubleknot registration ends on June 26th Page 9 Virtual Pinewood Derby June 2020
Virtual Pinewood Derby 2020 Race ID Card
lease print clearly and fill out completely. f youth is non-Scout, you may leave Scout specific items blank.
Youth Name:
Race Division ○ Cub Scouts circle rank Lion • Tiger • olf • Bear • ebelos • A L ○ Scouts BSA enturing ○ on-Scout under years old
Scout Unit Number: Scout Unit District or City:
Parent/Guardian name:
Parent/Guardian email:
Parent/Guardian phone number:
Drop off location
Becoming the Best Version of Ourselves From ScoutingWire, June 3, 2020
Scouting is about character and leadership. Our values call us to stand up to injustice, as we strive to help other people at all times. The Scout Oath and Law – our very foundation – call for helpfulness, bravery, common courtesy, and respect among all people. Our values call us to stand up to injustice, as we strive to help other people at all times. The Scouting movement recognizes and celebrates that the attributes that make us different actually draw us together as Scouts, citizens, and human beings. We refuse to accept violence or injustice toward another human being. As Scouts, we recognize that much work remains to be done. We are committed to empathy, compassion, and to meaningfully improve. Scouting teaches young people to come together to find peaceful solutions, to work to become the best versions of themselves, and to create a better world. Page 10 Advancement June 2020 Merit Badge Requirement Changes for 2020 Merit Badge Updates for 2020 AS A REMINDER: If a Scout has already started a merit badge prior to this revision, they are allowed to finish the version that they It's time to review your troop library of merit badge pamphlets! The started, meaning don't throw away those pamphlets just yet! Any Scout following is a list of merit madges that have had some modifications for starting one of these merit badges in 2020 will be required to follow 2020. Some changes may be minor, like Crime Prevention while others the NEW requirements. Previous versions AND current versions of all like American Business and Reading have been completely revised. merit badges are available at the Scouting.org website.
Requirements Updated 2020 Merit badge requirement updates from 2020 Scouts BSA Requirements (33216): American Business PDF (Completely revised) American Heritage PDF (3a, 3b, 4a) Animal Science PDF (3; for 6, Avian option: d2, e) Bugling PDF (3, 4) Chemistry PDF (2b, 6, 7a, 7c) Crime Prevention PDF (8a) Environmental Science PDF (3, 4a, 4b; added 3h) Geology PDF (for 5d, Earth History option: added new 2 and renumbered existing 5d[2–5]) Kayaking PDF (3b, 4c, 5a, 5b, 7b, 8a, 8b, 8e; added 5c, 8f, 8g; deleted 4d) Model Design and Building PDF i (3, 4a, 4b, 4c, 4e, 5a, 5d) Painting PDF (3, 6, 8; deleted 2b; existing 2c and 2d now 2b and 2c) Personal Fitness PDF (4a, 4b, 4c, 4e, 5d, 8; revised and reordered 2 and 3; added 6b) Reading PDF (Completely revised) Safety PDF icon (1, 2b, 5) Space Exploration PDF icon (5c) Sustainability PDF icon (for 2, Energy: b; 4f) Traffic Safety PDF icon (5b, 5d) Whitewater PDF icon (1a, 1c, 2a, 2b, 4a[1–3], 4b[1], 4c[1], 9, 10, 11, 12; added 2c, 2d)
Straight From the BSA Guide to Advancement - More News for You to Use! Guidelines on Reporting Advancements!
All Cub Scout, Scouts BSA, and Sea Scout ranks, and all Venturing advancement awards must be reported to local councils. The best and most accurate method is through the BSA’s internet portal for reporting advancement). An advancement report is not required to purchase adventure loops or pins. However, to ensure that each Cub Scout’s record is complete and accurate, all adventures – required and elective – should be posted in the BSA system using the internet portal for reporting advancement.
Some key things to remember! Benefits of Electronic Revised and Updated 1. All badges of rank, merit badges, Advancement Reporting Advancement Documents Eagle Palms, and Venturing awards are • Provides straightforward and direct restricted items. Unit leadership may not method of reporting Multiple revised and updated purchase these insignia for presentation • Eliminates issues with deciphering without having filed an advancement handwriting documents now available at scouting.org/ report with the local council. • Helps in local council verification of advancement: 2. Units should report advancement Eagle Scout Rank Applications • Request for Registration Beyond the Age monthly. This assures member records • Records ranks, badges, and awards in of Eligibility are complete. Missing reports are a accordance with BSA advancement rules • Individual Scout Advancement Plan serious issue. For example, accurate • Consolidates data files to reduce or • Belated Eagle Scout Rank Application documentation is critical for boards of eliminate record gaps when Scouts • Request for Extension of Time to Earn review, the Eagle Scout rank, the Summit transfer units Eagle Scout Rank Award, the Quartermaster rank, and • Supports national data analysis for • Reporting Merit Badge Counseling membership transfers or reinstatements. advancement statistics o Assures Concerns 3. To reflect an accurate count in the advancement is counted in the Journey to • Revised Eagle Scout Service Project Journey to Excellence performance Excellence Workbook for 2019 has been posted recognition program, it is also important and is available from scouting. that all advancement for a calendar year be recorded during that year. org/advancement under the Rank Advancement category. The content is Page 11 Council News June 2020
Summary Digital Safety and Online Scouting Activities As Scouting moves to virtual and online platforms, we offer the Do not record online activities/meetings that include youth following reminders to help keep kids safe. The below guidance applies participants. to all online Scouting activities and meetings. Recording of online activities that only involve adults is subject to local council legal review and approval. Check with your local Note: Some states may have legal requirements that differ from, council for guidance. and even go beyond, what is provided here. It is your responsibility • Call recording is subject to various legal requirements under U.S. to check and abide by your state laws and consult your local council law and the laws of individual states, some of which require all when reviewing and applying the following guidance, which is not parties to a call consent to recording. comprehensive. Safeguard personal information. • If you collect a person’s personal information online—for General Information example, through web forms used to register people for online Follow all youth protection policies. meetings—then you should post a notice or disclosure at the point • All youth protection policies still apply in an online environment. of collection describing how you will use the information. The Ensure you always have two-deep leadership for online activities notice should be conspicuous and written in plain English. and meetings. Our ban on one-on-one contact between an adult • Meeting organizers must keep such information private and not leader and youth applies to all interactions -– whether in person, share a youth’s personal information with anyone except that online, through a web conference, over the phone, via text, or in youth’s parent or guardian or the unit leader responsible for any other form. tracking advancements. For example, a merit badge counselor • All aspects of the Scouting program are open to observation by should not publicly post or otherwise show a roster with personal parents, and the BSA suggests parents take part in online activities information of Scouts the counselor has worked with. and meetings. Collecting personal information from youth under 13 is not Use business-oriented conference platforms that include good recommended. safety and privacy features instead of platforms with other primary • Do not collect personal information directly from youth under 13 purposes (such as gaming). years of age due to the parental notice and consent requirements • Review the terms of service, safety and privacy features, and data under the Children’s Online Privacy Protection Act (“COPPA”). collection policies of any platform you use, and review the BSA You should collect any data needed from the parent or legal Digital Privacy and Social Media Guidelines linked below. guardian only. Regularly review and implement the latest security features of your chosen platform to avoid unauthorized visitors or other security issues in your meetings. Just as you put in place plans for the physical security of your meeting place, here are some tips to consider as you get started developing your own strategy to manage online security: • Use unique meeting identification numbers for each session. • Utilize password features for all meetings. • Do not publish meeting invitations via public forums and remind attendees not to pass along invitations. • Use “waiting room” features to manage letting individuals into your meetings. • Disable features that you will not need, such as screen-sharing by non-hosts, private chats, and whiteboards.
Updated Merit Badge Pamphlets Now Available Through Amazon Kindle
Scouts are resourceful. So, while your troop may not be able to go on a weekend campout together during the COVID-19 pandemic, this time could be ideal to learn how to play a new game or work on the car or prepare a first aid kit for the family. We’ve previously shared a Scouter’s suggestion of merit badges that can be worked on from home and Scout Shop resources for some of those badges. Another resource you and your Scouts now have are digital merit badge pamphlets, available through Amazon Kindle. You can download the electronic reader application on your phone or tablet. Each digital pamphlet costs $4.99, the same price as hard-copy pamphlets. They’re compatible with any electronic device; they do not include interactive or enhanced content. You can also find digital handbooks and other leader resources in the BSA’s Amazon Kindle library.
Archery Astronomy Automotive Maintenance Camping Canoeing Chess Citizenship in the Nation Citizenship in the World Communication Disabilities Awareness Environmental Science Family Life First Aid Game Design Hiking Orienteering Personal Fitness Personal Management Pioneering Robotics Swimming Wilderness Survival
Bookmark the BSA’s Kindle library and keep checking back as more pamphlets will be uploaded in the coming weeks. Here’s what’s available as of April 28. Page 12 Program Ideas June 2020 When an Incident Happens From the Council Enterprise Risk Management Committee
Do you know what an incident is? Do you know what to do when an incident occurs? Do you know what a near miss is? Read on for the answers.
What is considered an incident? Loosely defined, a health and safety incident is any unplanned event that results in harm to an individual, property, or the environment. Examples include injuries (ranging from minor to life-threatening), outbreaks of food-borne Scouting at Home illnesses, vehicle accidents, property damage, the closure of a program At-home fun and learning for Scouting Families and non-Scouting area because of safety concerns, and the death of a Scout or volunteer. families alike. Use the Incident Reporting Tool (No. 680-016).
What is a near miss? A near miss is an unplanned event that doesn't Show & Tell: Scouting at Home result in injury, illness, or damage but had the potential to do so. An Cub Scout Activities, Cub Scouts, Indoor activities, example of a near miss is a Scout getting lost at camp and your calling Scouts BSA activities, Show & Tell for emergency response. Use the Near Miss Reporting Tool (No. 680- 017). Americans are staying home to help prevent the spread of COVID-19. We asked Scouts and Scouters to share how they’re continuing Scouting Why should we report incidents? To ensure that the organization at home and making a difference in their communities. There are shsosrt can respond in an appropriate manner and be prepared to handle any videos of Scout having fun.Hopefully, those featured here can inspire ensuing allegations or claims. Incident reports also help the BSA you and your unit. develop policies to prevent future occurrences. Visit go.scoutingmagazine.org/showandtell to show us ways you make Scouting shine. You can also email us at scoutingmag@ What if the incident involves allegations of child abuse or inappropriate behavior? Use the Youth Protection/Membership or post on social media using #ScoutingShowandTell gmail.com Infraction Incident Information Form (No. 680-676) to gather data. Note Go to “Scouting at Home, Boy Scouts of America” to find “30 day that this form contains confidential information and must be forwarded challenges for each grade level. directly to the Scout executive as soon as possible. You must also contact Scouts BSA 31-day Challenge the authorities. K-2nd grade 30-day Challenge 3rd and 4th grade 30-day Challenge If I report alleged child abuse to the BSA, Do I still need to Sea Scout Podcasts report it to the authorities? Yes. You must still follow your state’s mandatory reporting requirements.
Where do I find the reports? You can complete the reports online at https://bsapublicintakeportal.secure.force.com/ The above-mentioned reports can also be found on our council website in the “Forms and Printed Materials” under the “Resources” tab and in the appendix of the Guide to Safe Scouting. The Scouts First Helpline phone number is 844-SCOUTS1 (844-726-8871)
What do I do with the completed reports? Forward the reports to either your council Scout Executive or Enterprise Risk Management Committee Staff Advisor.
Scouting Wire and Scouting Newsroom
Do you want to learn about the latest Scouting news stories as well as interesting stories about Scouts and Scouting. Subscribe to either or both of these two sites for a weekly email. Go to Scoutingwire.org and/or Page 13 P.R.A.Y. News June 2020 P.R.A.Y. Extends Eligibility in Use P.R.A.Y. Awards to Build Response to COVID -19 Connections at Home
Extension Deadline: December 31, 2020 As families have lengthened time at home, keep in mind that the P.R.A.Y. awards are perfect opportunities to study together and make Recognizing that church and Scout meetings have been suspended, faith formation a priority, especially during this season of Lent. P.R.A.Y. has adopted the following policy to ensure that young people do While we may like the convenience of a church or Scouting class not miss the opportunity to earn their P.R.A.Y. emblem while maintaining that provides a set schedule and instruction, the P.R.A.Y. awards are eligibility for the Four-Star Award: perfect to be done at home with the family. During this unsettling time, At the request of clergy and counselors, a special eligibility extension it may be an unexpected opportunity for parents to share their faith is in effect until December 31, 2020. This means that students who are with their children and grow in faith together. Reading and discussing eligible for a program based on their current grade level in March 2020, Scripture to complete requirements will create natural space for will still be eligible to earn that award until the end of this calendar year, spontaneous dialogue and ways to connect with your children. Make December 31, 2020. Instead of aging out of a program in the fall when your family’s faith journey a priority! starting a new grade at school, the P.R.A.Y. extension will allow young people to complete their requirements until December 31, 2020. Not sure how to start? We also know that with time at home for spring breaks and self- Check out these – P.R.A.Y. Quick Start Steps and P.R.A.Y. quarantines, trying to maintain health, there is a good chance you will be Overview for Kids. battling cabin fever. Below you will find information and resources from P.R.A.Y. to engage Scouts and their families in faith formation. I hope you will find them useful in your own ministry. P.R.A.Y. is grateful for the many churches and volunteers who help young people grow in faith and earn their religious emblems. You are P.R.A.Y. Announces New RP3 needed for such a time as this! We pray God’s presence be a source of comfort and strength both to you and to the young people with whom Patch: you work. Jason Noland, P.R.A.Y. CEO “Making Room” Story #1: No Room in the Inn Make room in your heart for Jesus.
30-Day Challenges Story #2: Mary and Martha Make room in your day to listen and spend time with God. In an addition to the video series on YouTube, we are pleased to introduce 30-Day Challenges for every P.R.A.Y. Program level. When Story #3: A Room for Elisha completed according to the prescribed schedule, with the help from a Make room in your life for missionaries and pastors. parent or counselor at home, youth can complete the requirements and share with their family the work toward achievement of their religious Bible Basics RP3 is a free curriculum available upon request. This emblem. Visit each program's challenge below. patch series is for all ages and intended for individual and family use. Jesus and Me 30 Day Challenge God and Me 30 Day Challenge To request your free lessons go to https://www.praypub.org/rp3 God and Family 30 Day Challenge God and Church 30 Day Challenge God and Life 30 Day Challenge Save the Date 2020 Religious Retreat Camp Lowden September 18-20, 2020
To all who attended the 2019 Religious Retreat at Camp Lowden, thank you for coming! I think everyone can say that we had a great time! We had a wonderful speaker and learned a lot about looking inside someone for who they are, not judging by appearance! We were blessed to have our largest turnout yet! Please plan on joining us at our next Religious Retreat on September 18-20, 2020, weekend for Scouts BSA and Saturday daytime for the Cub Scout Family Program. Let me know if you have questions or would like to be involved with planning the weekend. Cindy Chiodini, 815-543-8404, [email protected] Page 14 Council News June 2020
2020 - 2021 Blackhawk Area Camp Lowden Looking for Council Okpik Cold Weather Camping Course - Train the Trainer Properties Chair “Non Semper Erit Aestas” “It Will Not Always Be Summer”
Thank you, Bob Gingras Blackhawk Area Council announces Okpik Cold Weather Camping Training for Troop Leaders, Sr Scouts, After many years of significant contributions to Camp Lowden Bob and Troop Trainers 14 & Up. Gingras is retiring from his position of Camp Lowden Properties Chair. Please join us in wishing him well. As a result we are looking to fill the Our Train the Trainer program will provide you the knowledge and position of Camp Lowden Properties Chair. materials to conduct winter camping training within your units. This program covers the skills and techniques needed to ensure a successful, Position Concept fun, and safe cold weather camping experience. These include physical preparation, clothing, food & water, sanitation, first aid and emergency The Camp Lowden Properties Chair is responsible for overseeing procedures, shelter building, traveling in snow, and making equipment. the following – all of Camp Lowden except for the Boeger Leadership Cold weather camping mistakes can be deadly. The skills learned in Lodge. This is a volunteer position. the Okpik Program will make cold weather camping an enjoyable, safe Reports to: Council V.P. of Properties. Scouting experience. The Camp Lowden Properties Chair is responsible for overseeing To provide a train the trainer opportunity to scout leaders and the following – all of Camp Lowden except for the Boeger Leadership experienced youth in the unique skills of winter camping. The intent Lodge. This is a volunteer position. of this course is to help scout troops to extend their camping season Reports to: Council V.P. of Properties. to all 12 months of the year. It is expected that the participants of this course will go back to their units and share the knowledge and skills learned in this course. Because of this, the course is limited to adults Primary Responsibilities and experienced youth only (at least 14 years old, approved by their • Be the “eyes and ears” of all things property related at Camp. home troop Scoutmaster and the course director). • Facilitate Capital and Maintenance projects for the Camp. • Lead Camp Lowden Properties Committee and hold meetings as necessary. Dates & Times: • Pro-actively communicate with the Camp Lowden Properties November 14, 2020 (Classroom, 8:30 a.m. - 3:30 p.m.) Committee, the Staff contact, and the VP of Properties to keep December 12, 2020 (Classroom, 8:30 a.m. - 3:30 p.m.) everyone up to speed on any issues or needs. January 16, 2021 (Outdoor Classroom, 8:30 a.m. - 3:30 p.m.) • Organization of work days at Camp. January 30-31, 2021 (Practical, Camp Lowden, Oregon, Ill.) • Overall organization and maintenance of equipment and facilities. • Monthly routine maintenance (i.e. furnace filters, fire extinguisher All three classroom sessions and a practical outdoor campout are renewal, report any wear and tear / damage that needs attention, required to complete the course. and to keep up on all supplies (paper products, cleaning supplies, Course Fee: $100.00 paid in full by November 1, 2020. etc) If you have any questions please contact the Course Director at • Organize scheduled cleaning service. [email protected] • Coordinate with the Risk Management Committee for semi-annual inspections & any updates to Emergency Procedures. • Work with the Risk Management committee to ensure safety at camp. • Work with the Summer Camp Program to ensure the camp is ready to run. • Work with NCAP to adhere to NCAP standards etc. • Report to Council V.P. of Properties each month on each property.
If you are interested in this position please contact Jake Dykstra at 815-985-3664 or [email protected], or Emily Cross at [email protected]. Page 15 2021 National Jamboree June 2020 2021 NATIONAL JAMBOREE July 21-30, 2021
PARTICIPANT REGISTRATION IS NOW OPEN
Experience the best of Scouting in one place. From stadium shows to merit badges, patch trading to adventure sports, you’ll want to be at the Summit Bechtel Reserve in 2021. Space is limited, register to go as part of the Blackhawk Area Council contigent!
For more information, visit BlackhawkHub.org/events/22904 Applications are accepted on a first come, first reserved basis. In fairness to all, the deposit must be received to reserve your space. Scouts must be at least 12 years old & First Class rank by the time of the contingent's departure (approx. July 20, 2021.) Page 16 2021 National Jamboree June 2020
Face the Challenge: Participant Registration Now Open for the 2021 National Jamboree
A celebration that happens just once every four years. World-class venues packed with incredible moments. A spirit of unity, patriotism and ‘Face the Challenge’ So what does “Face the Challenge” mean? Here’s how Jamboree courage. organizers explain it in a document summarizing the vision for the 2021 Turns out the National Jamboree and the Summer Olympics share National Jamboree: a lot of similarities — with one exception – at a National Jamboree The truth is that young people can achieve more than they believe everyone leaves a winner. is possible. Scouting uniquely prepares its members to redefine their Participant registration is now open for the 2021 National Jamboree, boundaries, push past them and emerge from the experience with the to be held July 21–30, 2021, at the Summit Bechtel Reserve, the BSA’s confidence that no matter the challenge, they can meet it. gold-medal-caliber high-adventure base in West Virginia. A National Jamboree will happen only once or twice during a young Nothing is impossible for the prepared young person — no future is person’s time in Scouts BSA, Venturing, or Sea Scouting. That’s why out of reach for a group of committed people who care. many people call a National Jamboree a “flagship BSA experience.” It’s important to signal that the limits people perceive are self- Over the course of 10 days, Jamboree participants will experience imposed, and that with an embrace and application of the 12 points of unforgettable adventures they’ll remember all their lives. They can the Scout Law and three points of the Scout Oath, there is a bright and experience the Summit’s legendary adventure sports programs, earn positive future. merit badges, enjoy stadium shows, and trade patches with Scouts from Participants in the 2021 National Scout Jamboree will learn that all 50 states and many foreign countries. character is created when you achieve more than you thought possible. In doing all that, Jamboree participants join a tradition that has been a part of the BSA since the very first National Jamboree in 1937. 2021 National Jamboree 2021 National Jamboree Registration link youth:
Scouting instills confidence, helping young people discover they : https://bit.ly/BAC-JAMBO2021-YOUTH can achieve more than they thought possible. That’s the uplifting message behind the logo and theme for the 2021 National Jamboree, which the BSA announced today. Using Scouting’s highest-profile gathering to deliver a distinct Registration link adults: thematic message signals a bold new approach for National Jamborees. It ensures that the theme, “Face the Challenge,” will leave a lasting : https://bit.ly/BAC-JAMBO2021-ADULT impression on Jamboree participants and our entire movement. Jamboree organizers will weave the theme throughout the event. They’ll reinforce it before, during and after the Jamboree. They’ll showcase it at stadium shows, deliver it using wearable technology and highlight it at special flash challenges that pop up wherever participants congregate. Smartphone integration and a pre-Jamboree survey will ensure that each participant embarks on their own Jamboree journey. Even with tens of thousands of participants, no two Jamboree experiences will be the same. “From an overall programmatic design, we want to customize the Jamboree to an individual’s area for growth,” says Ed Lynes, the volunteer serving as Jamboree Thematics Lead. Page 17 Friends of Scouting June 2020
2020 Friends of Scouting Invest in Youth. Invest in Character. Invest in Leadership.
How Do We Meet Our Pack, Troop, Or Crew Goal? 1) Hold a Family Friends of Scouting Presentation at your Blue & Gold Banquet or Court of Honor a. Your Unit leadership will be contacted by a District volunteer or staff member to schedule this presentation. We will train a volunteer to come and deliver a presentation during your event to give all families an opportunity to participate in the giving program and explain where the money goes.
2) Council Email Invites to your group a. Council will send an invite to your Blue and Gold or Court of Honor for all emails currently in our database from your Unit. b. If your Unit has an invite list; it can be sent to Council and they will send a nice email inviting your families to your event, including a link to online donations, a link to the Friends of Scouting video, and providing more information prior to the presentation on your behalf. c. Excel List is preferred but any is acceptable. Send to [email protected]
3) Matching Gifts a. Many companies will match a donation by their employees to a non-profit. Matching gift letters will be provided at your presentation, but this is a great way to help reach your goal by doubling your gift. All you do is present the letter to your HR or Payroll and mark it on your pledge card.
4) Follow up and Regular Correspondence with Your Families a. Not everyone will donate at your event, but, if sent reminders will donate if asked directly. The Council will help follow up with donors/families but it is faster and better received if they receive a contact from a Unit Leader helping to reach the goal. Digital Presence - An easy way to help family and friends donate
5) Unit Online Donation Platform a. Every Unit that holds a presentation will be given a unique link to an online donation platform. This can be used at any time throughout the year and during the presentation if a family is more comfortable donating online. This allows the gifts from your families to be credited to your Unit goal and will be included with any email invites. b. This is what our Unit Banners look like: i. When navigating to donate online, your families and donors will be able to see a thermometer with your Unit Friends of Scouting Goal.
6) Facebook Fundraiser through Blackhawk Area Council a. Through the Blackhawk Area Council Facebook page, any person can set up an online fundraiser to help reach their unit Friends of Scouting goal.
7) Facebook Birthday/Anniversary Fundraisers a. It is now the norm that instead of people asking for gifts for their birthday/anniversary, they will post a Facebook fundraiser for their favorite non-profit. This can help your campaign greatly because many people will donate because of the connection with their friend or family versus the organization itself. If you do not know how to setup a Facebook fundraiser, or set up an email with a link to your Unit Banner, please contact your District staff member for assistance. We thank you for your commitment to Scouting and helping raise the needed funds to continue to support our local programs serving over 12,000 youth annually in 12 counties! Page 18 Council News June 2020
Blackhawk Area Council James E. West Pledge Card
Please choose a level of commitment: ____$1000 ____$5000 ____$10,000 ____ $15,000 Donor Information and Affiliation: In Memory/Honor of ______Name ______Pledge Signature ______Address ______City ______State ______Zip ______Email ______Make a Gift That Date ______NEW - James E West _____ EXISTING: Please add to Lasts a Lifetime my James E West Account Have you ever thought about a financial gift to Scouting that lasts a _____ Send Me Information on Endowment Events lifetime? In addition to donating to Friends of Scouting each year, which _____ Send Me Information on Endowment giving - Gifts can be is absolutely necessary for the council to operate; there are other ways to given over a period of time. donate that will create a financial pipeline in perpetuity for our council _____ Send Me Information on Will Services and Scouting programs and help us “Scout Our Future.” It is our Council Endowment Committee’s goal to be able to fund Method of Payment and Billing Schedule: all of our council program expenses through the interest generated _____ Cash from our Council Endowment. This goal is not something that can be _____ Check # ______completed in a single year, but a goal our entire Scouting community (Make payable to Blackhawk Area Council) must take on together to achieve. _____ Visa _____ Master Charge _____ American Express _____ Credit Card # ______Exp. Date ______Specifically, _____ Bill Me: _____ Monthly _____ Quarterly _____ Our Mission: “To provide ongoing financial support for Scouting programs in the Blackhawk Area Council” Annually ______Name on Card ______Our Vision: “To ensure that Scouting in the Blackhawk Area Council is gratis from perennial, financial constraints in perpetuity” CSV# ______
So What Is an Endowment?
An endowment is a fund held to provide interest and dividend Guide to Safe Scouting earnings for the benefit of a charitable cause. Ultimately, it is alife preserver that generates income each and every year for our council. “Be safe” is one of the watch words of Scouting. According to With a gift to the Council Endowment Fund, you are supporting Scouting Chief Scout Executive Michael Surbaugh, “the BSA is committed to throughout your lifetime and beyond. safety.” He charges each of us to commit ourselves to creating a safe and Unlike Friends of Scouting, your donations are held in a restricted healthy learning environment. It behooves all of us to keep this charge fund, meaning only the interest and dividends earned from your gift can in mind every time our Scouts get together. The Scout’s parents entrust be used for council support each year. What this means is that if our their children to our care and expect them to be safe, secure, healthy, endowment grows large enough, the Blackhawk Area Council will be and happy. able to improve its programs, cut costs for programs, and overall be free Our definitive guide to safety in all of our Scouting activities is from the constraints of financial hardships. the Guide to Safe Scouting. It has a great deal of information on a wide There are several recognitions for Endowment gifts and different range of topics. Every Scouter should be familiar with this guide and types of gifts that can be accepted such as cash, estate gifts, charitable should check it regularly. remainder trusts, and much more. I invite you to read more about this The Guide to Safe Scouting can be found at http://www. great way to make a lifetime impact to the Blackhawk Area Council by scouting.org/Healtandsafety/GSS.aspx. visiting www.blackhawkscouting.org/scoutingourfuture The online version is updated quarterly. A PDF version is also Should you have an interest in donating to our Endowment or available for download. have questions, please contact me anytime at 815-397-0210 or dane. Be sure to check the guide for the latest changes before any outing or event. [email protected] and I will be happy to assist. Dane Boudreau Field Director Not all learning happens in the classroom. We are equipping young Americans for life. Page 19 Training Talk June 2020 New Video Series Delivers the Ultimate Den Leader Experience Updated Youth
By now, you’ve probably caught word of Scoutbook’s Den Leader Protection Training Experience, the free web app that makes it easier than ever for den leaders to prepare for and lead meetings, track advancement and attendance, and more. So, how could preparing for a den meeting possibly get any easier? Leave it to the Scoutbook team to find new ways to streamline and The updated online and facilitator-led (face-to-face) Y01 Youth simplify the den leading process—because they’ve now introduced a Protection Training has been released. video series to help you navigate the Den Leader Experience app and get Updates include a new learning plan as well as a Spanish-translated the most out of this terrific new tool. version of the training. Previous versions of the facilitated training are Based on the top questions the Scoutbook team received since the obsolete. Do not use them. YPT Champions can get a link to the new launch of the Den Leader Experience, these videos were created in the facilitator materials from their Scout executive. spirit of continuous improvement. The video series uses quick, to-the- YPT training must be current through December 31, 2020 ,to be point snapshots that will help any den leader get started, whether you’re rechartered with your unit in Blackhawk Area Council. That means that a tech novice or an app aficionado. it could not have been taken before December 31, 2018.” From home screen how-tos to den invitations, check out the list Both the English and Spanish Youth Protection facilitator-led below to see how these videos can offer you the best Den Leader courses have been released to council Scout executives. To further your knowledge in protecting youth, we have released Experience possible. You can also find all 16 videos at Scouting.org/ additional recommended online training modules covering the following Youth Protection topics: Dashboard: Meetings: • Physical abuse Accessing Your Account Understanding the Calendar View • Emotional abuse Navigating the Main Pages Editing Your Calendar • Neglect Taking Training Taking Attendance • Impact of violence in the home Finding Resources Preparing for the Next Meeting Roster: Selecting Your Den Finding Parents Setting Up a Den Finding Your Scouts Inviting a Leader to Your Den New District Inviting a Parent to Your Den Inviting a Scout to Your Den Committee Training Viewing an Adult’s Profile Check out the Den Leader Experience for yourself through Scoutbook and be sure to head to Bryan on Scouting’s story to learn District committee training has been taught the same way for many more about the awesome features! years. By leveraging the BSA Learn Center we can provide the district For questions on the Den Leader Experience or Scoutbook in general, committee a learning environment that gives them the content they need you can always contact the Scoutbook support team at: Scoutbook. when they need it and leverage professional training for consistency in [email protected]. You can also read answers to frequently district training. asked questions here. This new learning will replace the District Committee Workshop and will provide learning plans aligned with the various district committee As always, keep an eye on Scoutbook.com for updates and stay positions and functions to include: tuned to Scouting Wire for details on another new video series featuring District Chair/District Vice-Chair Membership den leader tips and Cub Scout rank overviews! Fund Development Program Camping and Outdoor Program Activities and Civic Service Training Member-at-Large Advancement and Recognition Nominating
As the online training supersedes the District Committee Workshop, use of the District Committee Workshop syllabus for New Cub Scout training should be discontinued. Facilitator-Led Training New Training Coming Soon This course is designed to deliver training for all position-trained Cub Commissioner Online Training Scout positions and matches the online content. The training is intended With the new Commissioner Tools rolling out and the recent program to help leaders begin a “path of learning.” The goal is to encourage and changes, these learning plans will be updated. The acclimation modules incentivize leaders to become continuous learners, providing the basic will be replaced with updated modules (shared from the professional information and skills necessary to get them started on their journey courses), will reflect the addition of girls, and will contain updates such and then give them access to and knowledge of additional resources and as the fourth aim of Scouting. training opportunities available to them. The various tools modules on the operation and use of the new Commissioner Tools will be replaced with new modules. Page 20 Cub Scout Day Camps June 2020 Frontier Camp
Registration for Backyard Scouting Is Open! Starting on July 6, Backyard Scouting is designed to get your Scout outside and active. A collaborative program run by four councils in Northern Illinois and Southwestern Wisconsin, this new virtual day camp brings Scouting adventures like STEM, nature activities, Scout skills, crafts, and shooting sports to your own backyard. Some of the activities even offer advancement! This at-home day camp is self-paced and can be accessed at your family’s convenience. To register, visit www.backyardscouting.org. For questions, contact Emily Cross, emily.cross@ scouting.org.
Backyard Scouting has three price options. The Explorer options include a Camp Kit with many of the materials needed for the activities. Most activities can also be done with household items.
Ranger: $20 – includes access to 35+ activities and patch
Explorer: $65 – includes access to 35+ activities, patch, camp kit, pickup from local council office
Explorer II: $80 – includes access to 35+ activities, patch, camp kit, direct shipping to your home.
If you plan to have your camp kit shipped, we recommend registering before June 19 to ensure you receive your camp kit by July 6. Page 21 Annie Oakley Event June 2020 Camp Lowden 4418 S. Scout Rd Oregon, IL 61061
August 21-22 2020 Camp Low den
BlackhawkHub.org/events/22812
All youth participants will have Annie Oakley the opportunity to shoot: Registration lBB Guns Information lArchery Shooting Event Date: Registered Scouts BSA & older August 21st-22nd will have the opportunity to shoot: for Scouts BSA girls & female leaders l22 Rifles l20 guage Shotguns August 22nd (Day only) The purpose of this event is to l12 guage Shotguns for Cub Scout girls and their adults orientate the young ladies joining l50 cal. Black Powder rifle ======Scouts BSA and female leaders on firing range procedures, gun All registered adults and Cost: handling safety and some good youth over the age of 14 who are Scouts BSA Girls & ole fun shooting on the range . registered in a Venture Crew Female Leaders: To Register, go to: will have the opportunity to shoot: $75/person lHandguns (includes: overnight lodging at Boeger BlackhawkHub.org/events/22812 Leadership Lodge, Friday night crack- er barrel, Saturday breakfast & lunch, What you should bring: certificate, patch, and ammunition.) Scouts BSA: Overnight attendees ------Sleeping gear, BSA Healthform can check in between Cub Scout Girls: parts A&B, Hygiene kit, daypack, 6-8pm on Friday, August 21st. $20/youth water bottle Day Cub Scout attendees and their Saturday only adults can arrive when prog- (includes: lunch, certificate, patch) Cubs/Webelos/AOL: ------Daypack, water bottle ram begins at 10am on Adults w/Cub Scout Girls: Saturday, August 22nd. $5/person QUESTIONS? Saturday only Contact: Program will include lunch (includes: lunch, adults attending w/ Michael McCleary and runs until 5pm on Saturday. Cub Scouts will be limited to [email protected] BBs and archery) 815.337.9016 All safety equipment will *ALL attendees must be currently OR be provided. registered with BSA. Emily Cross FOID card not required. [email protected] DEADLINE TO REGISTER IS Aug 7th, 2020 815.397.0210 WALK-INS WILL NOT BE ACCEPTED. * Male leaders are able to attend with their unit. Page 22 Camping June 2020 First Ever #CanyonLowdenDay July 15
#CanyonLowdenDay
The first ever #CanyonLowdenDay will be on July 15! Join us as we celebrate Canyon Camp alongside our sister camp, Camp Lowden Woodcutter’s Ball ONLINE. We have launched a web-page that will share high level updates Canyon Camp leading up to the celebration. What can you do to be a part of the day? Find some of your favorite pictures, pull out some Canyon Camp swag October 3, 2020 (t-shirts, coffee mugs, etc.), and start thinking of your favorite memories to share. The Annual Kiwanis Woodcutter's Ball Work Weekend - Canyon Leading up to July 15, post on social media or send us an e-mail Camp, BSA is scheduled for October 3, 2020. This event is hosted each year by the Kiwanis Club of Monroe, ([email protected]) to share why you love Canyon Wisconsin. They sponsor the event in a number of ways. Awesome Camp. Be sure to use #CanyonCamp and #CanyonLowdenDay. volunteers come together from Kiwanis Club and Scouting, great food We want to share with the broader community a taste of the Spirit is available at no cost, and a great day of service is completed. of Canyon Camp even if we are not able to gather for summer camp this See you October 3! year. This is also a great look to the future as we launch toward our 2021 summer camping season for Scouts BSA. Canyon Camp is already at 70% capacity for the 2021 season. As we celebrate #CanyonLowdenDay, make sure your unit is able to continue the celebration with us next summer as we return to camp- register today! We can't wait to celebrate with you. See you at Webelos/AOL weekend or unit campouts within the next few months. This fall and winter leading into 2021 will be different, but it energizes us thinking about how great next summer will be! If you have any questions, please reach out to us at any time at: [email protected].
Camp Lowden Day July 15
Help us celebrate Camp Lowden, and our sister camp, Canyon Camp, with the first annual #CanyonLowdenDay on July 15. Think about your favorite Lowden memories, dig out those old camp photos, find your favorite Camp Lowden apparel or coffee mug and share them with us as we celebrate camping in Blackhawk Area Council. As we approach July 15, be sure to share your memories or photos with us on social media or by email ([email protected]) and let us know why you love Camp Lowden. Be sure to use #CampLowden and #CanyonLowdenDay. Stay tuned to our social media pages for more information as we get closer to the day and “events” leading up July 15th’s #CanyonLowden Day. Help us celebrate 80 years of Camp Lowden, even though we can’t be together for camp this year, and help us invite the next generation of Scouts to Camp Lowden in 2021! Registration for 2021 is already filling up! Make sure to reserve your spot today! Page 23 Camping June 2020
Now Open! 2021 Scouts BSA Summer Camp Registration! 2021 will be here before you know it!
Sign up your troop today! 2021 will be filling up quickly!
Canyon Camp Camp Lowden
Week 1 June 20, 2021 - June 26, 2021 Week 1 June 20, 2021 - June 26, 2021 Week 2 June 27, 2021 - July 3, 2021 Week 2 June 27, 2021 - July 3, 2021 Week 3 July 4, 2021 - July 10, 2021 Week 3 July 4, 2021 - July 10, 2021 Week 4 July 11, 2021 - July 17, 2021 Week 4 July 11, 2021 - July 17, 2021 Week 5 July 18, 2021 - July 24, 2021 Week 4 July 11, 2021 - July 17, 2021
New program feature: 32 foot Climbing structure to New program feature: Cowboy Action Shooting complete our Zip-line and High Ropes area. Range! Do you have what it takes to make it the New Merit Badges: Graphic Art, Textile, Insect Study, Wild West? Scouting Heritage, and Metalwork. New Program Area – Skilled Trades: Automotive Maintenance, Composite Material, Drafting, Electricity, Graphic Arts, Home Repair, Metalworking, Painting, Plumbing, Welding
Register online for either camp at https://blackhawkhub.org/posts/54251 Page 24 Camp News June 2020 Webelos / Arrow of Light Weekend Canyon Camp's Annual Webelos Summer Camp Weekend July 31-August 2, 2020
Webelos and Arrow of Light Summer Camp Weekend- Registration Open! Cub Scout Parents: Register today for your Scout’s summer camp experience!
Our first pack has already registered for our annual Webelos and Arrow of Light summer camp weekend. We fully expect this program to meet capacity again this year. Be sure to reach out with any questions you may have. Visit www.canyoncampbsa.org/webelos-weekend to learn more and register today. Go for the Gold!
Canyon Camp’s program includes two nights of camping and awesome programs designed for older Cub Scouts working on adventure loops/pins. In addition to great food and a free tshirt, all Scouts will experience summer camp in a way that will create lifelong memories and help them as they prepare for the transition to Scouts BSA. Join us for a fun themed weekend with Swimming, Climbing Archery, BB guns Great food Awesome Campfire and more! 2020 Adventures: Into the Woods, Aquanaut, Art Explosion, Game Design **Every registration includes a T-shirt, meals provided in our dining hall, and a platform tent for your use (optional)** We can’t wait to see you July 31-August 2! Page 25 June 2020 Sycamore District Serving McHenry County in Illinois
Sycamore District Committee
Committee Chair - Matthew Ewertowski - 815-276-782 Training Chairperson - Tom Lotito, 224-829-6676 District Commissioner – David Beeson, 847-754-4392 Assistant Training Chair - Christina Bahnsen, 815-245-6303 Vice-Chair of Membership - Karla Zander, 847-650-9951 Cub Scout Training - Tyson Carter, 708-642-1972 Cub Scout - Fall Roundup - Donald Novak, 847-497-9223 Boy Scout Training - Tara Northway Cub Scout - Spring Recruitment - Donald Novak, 847-497-9223 Venturing Training - Randy Jenovai Webelos-to-Scout Tansition - Vacant Field Director - Dane Boudreau, 815-397-0210 Boy Scout Open House - Vacant District Executive - Michael Ancheta, 815-397-0210 Vice Chair of Finance - Vacant District Executive - Laura Cullotta, 815-397-0210 Family Friends of Scouting Chair - Charles Powe, 224-569-6481 Community Friends of Scouting Chair - Vacant Popcorn Kernel - Cynthia Graf - Committee Members at Large Sporting Clays Legacy of Service Edward Allen, 847-658-3745 Andrew Myshkowec, 815-337- Vice-Chair of Administration - Michelle Myshkowec, 847-417-9875 Kyle Baker, 847-516-8185 4665 Nominating Committee Chairperson - Lance Snider, 630-525- Todd Birkhoff, 815-385-8853 Bill Nattress, 815-337-6119 0518 Matthew Canning, 815-356-1236 Tara Northway, 618-977-8724 Committee Member - Jennifer Broadfield, 847-754-7080 Bob Donehey, 847-651-1961 Kenneth Pearson, 815-455-0118 Committee Member - Russ Friend, 847-915-8660 Kevin Fadden, 847-639-2617 Michael Pigliacelli, 281-221-7944 Committee Member - Pierre Langlois, 815-675-6524 John Fiorina, 815-355-6616 David Reid, 815-790-4354 Committee Member - Chuck Natoli, 847-531-7765 Martin Guzik, 847-337-2375 Kevin Ruddy, 815-479-0476 Committee Member - Blair Piotrowski, 847-712-0867 Greg Hall, 847-516-1985 David Savone, 847-602-1297 Risk Management Representative - Michael McCleary - 815-337- homas Henn, 847-669-0364 Cassandra Slick, 815-243-5582 9016 Joe Hewins, 815-459-9126 Dave Steffenhagen, 815-347-1942 District Dinner Chair - Carrie Fiorina Wayne Kemp, 847-224-3664 Manuel Torres, Jr., 630-488-8214 Awards and Recognition - Jeff Klinefelter, 815-236-1847 Joseph Kobler, 815-527-1386 Douglas Tucker, 815-479-8706 Noteworthy Editor - Rachel Friend, 24-829-6479 Kurt Kokoruz, 815-307-8027 Donn Vitek, 815-459-9119 Web Administrator - Rachel Friend,224-829-6479 Michael Lange, 847-854-0373 Marian Walters, 847-477-8270 Local Media Coordinator, Vacant Sarah Mayer, 815-403-3780 Raymond Warren, 224-623-3965 Public Relations Chairperson, Vacant Dawn Meier, 847-561-7532 Norman Wierer, II, 815-404-8693 Vice-Chair of Program - Brian Gahan Bob Menard, 815-356-9133 Gerald Zopp, Jr., 815-355-2636 Advancement and Recognition Chairperson - Frank Colomer, Jr., 815-276-5214 Internet Advancement Pack Coordinator - Leah Beeson, Sycamore District Calendar 847-754-4392 Internet Advancement Troop Coordinator - Sean Smith, June 21 Father’s Day 224-523-4847 26 Deadline to register pinewood derby car Life-Eagle Board Coordinator - Michael Lumpp, 815-344- 1088 Activities and Civic Service Chairperson - Maria Kaiser, 224-256- July 1708 3 Council service center closed Klondike Chair - 4 Independence Day, council service center closed Scouting for Food - Susan Clancy-Kelly, 847-516-3782 7 Courier deadline, August Internet Issue Woods of Webelos Coordinator - Gail Krec, 815-675-6578 11 Scout Night with the Rivets, Rockford -- Postponed Sycamore Derby Days - Melissa Davis, 224-587-3820 15 #CayonLowdenDay Tiger Time Chair - Vacant 15` Trail’s End Popcorn Webinar Merit Badge Day - Denike Warden, 847-863-0929 15 Council-Wide Popcorn Kickoff Camp Promotion and Outdoor Chairperson - Chuck Natoli, 847- 18 Virtual Pinewood Derby 531-7765 23 Trail’s End Popcorn Webinar Day Camp Administrator - Christina Bahnsen, 815-245-6303 August Day Camp Administrator - Lisa DeRusha, 815-861-9203 2-7 NYLT -- Cancelled OA Advisor - Dan Koleno, 815-344-4569 4 Courier deadline, September printed edition 7 Last day to register for Annie Oakley Dhooting Event 21-22 Annie Oakley Shooting Event, Camp Lowden Page 26 Sycamore District June 2020 Legacy of Service Awards Dinner Page 27 Sycamore District June 2020
Friends of Scouting
First, I hope you are doing well and staying safe! Second, I hope you know how much we appreciate your support Don't Miss of Scouting in McHenry County. Our funding has been derailed by the current situation. Our Friends of Scouting Campaign came to a screeching Sycamore District's halt in March and our events have all been cancelled or rescheduled. Our leaders are working diligently to keep Scouting alive for the 18th Annual youth in McHenry County with virtual events like the Virtual Camp Out in April and the Virtual Lego Masterbuilders Event in May. They are now Sporting Clays for Scouting working on Camp-in-a-Box! Ultimately, we really need the help of our supporters! If you are able, Northbrook Sports Club we welcome your contribution. There are two easy ways to give. 160 Sports Club Dr Text mchenryscouting to 1-844-615-4269 Hainesville, IL 60030 OR Go online to Saturday, September 29, 2020 blackhawkhub.org • Be sure to plug in Sycamore as the district. Registration Starts at 7:30 am • If you include a unit (pack, troop, or crew) they will get credit Shotgun Start at 8:00 am toward their FOS goal to receive FREE rank advancement for the next year. Thank you again for your commitment to our youth! Support Scouting Sponsorship Levels Starting at $125 Corporate exposure to over 200 Business and Community Leaders
Teams Amateur and Expert Shooters Male and Female Attitude Youth Ages 12 and Up Register as a Full Team of 5 The longer I live, the more I realize the impact of attitude A Partial Team on life. Attitude, to me, is more important than facts. It is more A Single Shooter important than the past, than education, than money, than circumstances, than failures, than successes, than what other Register for the Event Online people think or say or do. It is more important than appearance, Text mchenryclays to 844-615-4269 giftedness, or skill. It will make or break an organization...a Mail in your registration by printing the form church...a home. found at blackhawkhub.org/c/specialevents and mail to The remarkable thing is we have a choice every day regarding Blackhawk Area Council the attitude we will embrace for that day. We cannot change our Attn: Laura Cullotta / McHenry Sporting Clays for Scouting past. We cannot change the fact that people will act in a certain 2820 McFarland Rd, Rockford IL 61107 way. We cannot change the inevitable. The only thing we can do is play on the one string we have, and that is our attitude. View and share the Event on Facebook I am convinced that life is 10% what happens to me and 90% Contact McHenry County Development Executive Laura Cullotta how I react to it. And so it is with you. We are in charge of our [email protected] attitudes. Charles Swindoll All proceeds benefit the Scouting Program in McHenry County Page 28 June 2020
Wanchanagi District Serving Winnebago & Boone Counties in Illinois
Wanchanagi District Calendar Wanchanagi District Directory June District Chair – Ald. Clint Little, aldermanlittle@hotmail. 20 Flag Retirement Cerenony, Council Program Center com, 815-540-0563 21 Father’s Day Vice Chair – Admin: Lara Skrzypczynski, laraskrz1@msn. 26 Deadline to register pinewood derby car com, 815-519-5724 Vice Chair – Finance: Cliff Chappell, cliffscubs80@gmail. July 3 Council service center closed com, 815-713-0731 4 Independence Day, council service center closed Vice Chair – Membership: Megan Crain, m.crain710@gmail. 7 Courier deadline, August Internet Issue com, 779-772-0501 11 Scout Night with the Rivets, Rockford – postponed Vice Chair – Program: Rob Bucey, [email protected], 15 #CayonLowdenDay 815-985-3221 15` Trail’s End Popcorn Webinar District Commissioner – Open 15 Council-Wide Popcorn Kickoff Pcpcorn Kernel: Summer Rachas – prnsummer77@yahoo. 18 Virtual Pinewood Derby 23 Trail’s End Popcorn Webinar com. 815-558-7116 Friends of Scouting Coordinator – Open Training Chair – Alice Roby, [email protected], 773-368- August 2-7 NYLT – Cancelled 5724) 4 Courier deadline, September printed edition Camp Promotion & Outdoor Chair – Open 7 Last day to register for Annie Oakley Dhooting Event Activities & Civic Service Chair – Cleto Trigo, cleto.trigo@ 21-22 Annie Oakley Shooting Event, Camp Lowden gmail.com Advancement & Recognition Chair – Connie Snyder ([email protected]; 815-262-5223 Wanchanagi District Religious Emblems Coordinator– MaryAnn Bushaw, [email protected], 815-904-4287 Roundtable Scouting For Food Coordinator – Bob Olson, chvlldreams@ gmail.com, 815-222-3204 All meetings are virtual until further notice. Check www. Day Camp Coordinator – Alice Roby, [email protected], blackhawkhub.org and Wanchanagi Facebook page for meeting 773-368-5724 details Klondike Derby Chair –Rick Kuntzelman Will have separate breakout rooms for Cub Scouts and Scouts Fall Camporee Chair– Open BSA/Venturing Flag Retirement Chair – Paul Trent, goofykidjr@hotmail. June 11 (7:00 p.m.) com, 815-871-3801 July 9 (7:00 p.m.) Continuous Fire Chair – Aaron Roby, [email protected] August 13 (7:00 p.m.) September 10 (7:00 p.m.)
District Committee Meetings Moments
It takes one moment to change the life of another. Positive or All meetings are virtual until further notice. Check www. negative. A smile, a hand shake, eye contact. All these gestures blackhawkhub.org and Wanchanagi Facebook page for meeting have an impact on how you deliver a message and how that details message is received. Inviting someone to join Boy Scouts can July 2 (7:00 p.m.) be that easy! Make a difference in someone’s life and create that August 6 (7:00 p.m.) moment that will change that someone’s future! September 3 (7:00 p.m.) Page 29 Wanchanagi District June 2020 Clint Little District Chair
Clint Little is the current District Chair for Wanchanagi, Committee Chair for Troop 32 at St. Bridget’s, and a Loves Park Alderman. Clint was recently elected to the District Chair position and is looking forward to working with district leadership. Clint has served as the Troop 32 committee chair for three years. He is proud that Troop 32 has earned Gold Flag Retirement Ceremony Award these past three years for Journey June 20, 2020 Clint Little to Excellence, ensuring the Scouts have 8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. a quality program. Council Program Center 7194 Vandiver Rd, Rockford Prior to becoming troop committee chair he also served as a Troop 32 committee member helping organize fundraisers and events. Come help us retire our nation’s flags the proper way with respect Outside of Scouts, Clint has served the residents and business and dignity. This annual tradition teaches Scouts proper flag etiquette community for 20 years as a Loves Park Alderman. Clint has also served and about our nation’s history. many charitable organizations, most recently eight years as vice-president, In accordance to health and safety guidelines, only 10 volunteers treasurer, and board of trustees member for Tinker Swiss Cottage Museum at a time will be allowed at the Program Center and we will implement and Gardens. strict sanitizing measures. We will broadcast a portion of the event Clint is happily married to his wife of 21 years, Annetta, and together online for the public. More details to come. they have one son, Wade. Wade is a 14 year old Life Scout who has completed 50 merit badges and is currently pursuing Eagle. How to participate • Volunteer at one of the flag retirement stations. Hourly shifts are available or you can commit to a larger block of time. • View a broadcast of the event online and learn about flag etiquette. (more details to come)
Event Contact Paul Trent, Flag Retirement Event Chair, email goofykidjr@ hotmail.com or phone 815-871-3801
Earn a Reporter Patch! The Scout News Reporter program recognizes those individuals who contact a news media or send them a news release, which in turn gets a positive Scouting story or photo published in an approved publication (see list on application form) Continuous Fire Patches Do you have Scouts who like to write? If so, they might want to learn about the Reporters Patch which is now available. Continuous Fire event patches are now available for sale. Whether All Scouts – Cub Scouts, Boy Scouts, Venturers, Explorers, you participated in the event or not, this outer-galaxy-themed patch Learning for Life participants – may earn this award. Complete would be a “Star” addition to your patch collection. (All volunteers requirements and details are available on the council Web site, will receive a free patch). #ScoutOn. www.blackhawkScouting.org/Courier Thanks to Chantyl Bray-Outzen, Pack 396, for designing the patch. The application form is Reporter Patch Form 2012.pdf. There is also a Reporters Patch Guide.pdf to help you plan and organize your Visit blackhawkhub.org to order patches. story. For further information, go online to blackhawkScouting.org. Page 30 June 2020 White Eagle District Serving Whiteside, Lee, and Ogle Counties in Illinois
White Eagle District Directory White Eagle District Calendar June District Chair, Dan Hawkins, [email protected] 21 Father’s Day District Commissioner, Nancy Johnson, [email protected] 26 Deadline to register pinewood derby car Vice Chair Training, Josh Stone, [email protected] Vice Chair Membership, Bruce Colmark, [email protected] July Vice Chair Advancement , Kari Ebens, [email protected] 3 Council service center closed 4 Independence Day, council service center closed Vice Chairs Finance, Christopher Tenggren, christophertenggren@ 7 Courier deadline, August Internet Issue gmail.com 11 Scout Night with the Rivets, Rockford – Postponed Scouts BSA Roundtable Commissioners 15 #CayonLowdenDay Dr. Don Rastede 15` Trail’s End Popcorn Webinar Keith Potter, [email protected] 15 Council-Wide Popcorn Kickoff Cub Scout Roundtable Commissioner 18 Virtual Pinewood Derby Josh Stone, [email protected] 23 Trail’s End Popcorn Webinar Vice Chair Public Relations/News, Heather Wiedrich, [email protected] August Vice Chair Social Media, Gregg Ripley, gwripley61071@yahoo. 2-7 NYLT – Cancelled 4 Courier deadline, September printed edition com 7 Last day to register for Annie Oakley Dhooting Event Vice Chair Religious Emblems, Heather Wiedrich, heatherwiedrich@ 21-22 Annie Oakley Shooting Event, Camp Lowden comcast.net Vice Chairs Activities, Dr. Don Rastede, [email protected] Keith Potter Vice Chair Special Activities, Rosemary Matthiessen, rmatthiessen@ From the Desk of yahoo.com Bob Sutton Senior District Executive
Hello everyone, I hope you are doing well! As we continue to move forward in Scouting, we have had to adjust the way we deliver the program. Virtual meetings, virtual classes, etc... Making a Difference As always we must ensure that we are being safe in all we do. We have instituted virtual District Committee meetings and virtual Kids today have too few, real-life, up-close champions. roundtable meetings. If you need more information on how to get access, TV figures and sports stars aren’t real. Teachers, ministers, you can contact me, Nancy Johnson, or Dan Hawkins. unfortunately, are too often cast in a different light. Parents—well, The council has several different programs to keep Scouts active and this is the stage in life when kids start to look outside the homes. involved during this time. Here are a few activities that we currently Coaches and Scout leaders ... offer. You have a real chance to change a kid’s life. Scouters often • Pinewood Derby races say their Scouts could easily be in the criminal system because of • Day Camp Fun! whom they associate with at a wrong moment. • Spend the day in Galena, Illinois, for our Fall Camporee! You set a powerful example in how you treat kids. You help Please refer to our council website for more information on these assure they make right choices. You provide a safe haven where programs and other council information. they aren’t put down but are built up. You are a champion for kids. Thank you, This is your chance to make a difference. Bob Sutton If a Boy Scout attends his weekly patrol and troop meeting, AKA: Boy Scout Bob participates in a monthly weekend troop outing and attends long- term summer camp with his troop, he will have spent about as much time with Scouting in a year as he spends in a classroom. Page 31 White Eagle District June 2020
White Eagle District Award Recipients
Due to the unforeseen circumstances, White Eagle District was not able to celebrate the hard work of our volunteers in the normal way that we usually celebrate. That being said, the recipients for the awards were announced at the virtual roundtable held on May 7, 2020. The Making a Difference Award is one that each unit may give to a volunteer that has gone above and beyond to help their unit. This year there were five people who received this award. The recipients are: Katrina Pankey, Lynn Eden, David Flenner, Mike Wilson, and Greg Ebens. These awards will be presented at next year’s Recognition Dinner. The District Award of Merit for 2020 recipients was chosen from many nominations received this year by the committee. It was a difficult task, but one that the committee members take very seriously. This year’s recipients are Josh Stone and Andy Elston. Both of these gentlemen will be honored at next year’s event. We thank them for the many years of service they have given to White Eagle District and the influence that they have had on many young people. The Key 3 Award recipients for 2020 are Kari and Greg Ebens. This award will also be presented to them at next year’s event. On behalf of White Eagle District we congratulate all of the deserving award recipients for their hard work. They helped make Scouting a great place for our young people to learn many life skills and helped improve their leadership abilities. We encourage everyone to save the date of April 3, 2021, for our Recognition Dinner next spring. More details will follow later in the year. Page 32 June 2020
Wetassa District Serving Stephenson, Jo Daviess and Carroll in Illinois
Wetassa District Directory Wetassa District Calendar June District Chair – Joshua Ehlers, [email protected] 21 Father’s Day 815-291-6748 26 Deadline to register pinewood derby car District Commissioner – Jim Clay, [email protected], 970-443- 2997 July District Vice-Chair – Lee Kraut, [email protected], 3 Council service center closed 815-297-8247 4 Independence Day, council service center closed Roundtable Commissioner – Barry Sanders, adtc3bs@yahoo. 7 Courier deadline, August Internet Issue com 815-654-8349 11 Scout Night with the Rivets, Rockford – Postponed 15 #CanyonLowdenDay Asst District Commissioner – Alex Valencic, alex.t.valencic@ 15` Trail’s End Popcorn Webinar gmail.com 217-714-1291 15 Council-Wide Popcorn Kickoff Fundraising – Gene Knott, [email protected], 815-238- 18 Virtual Pinewood Derby 3724 23 Trail’s End Popcorn Webinar Membership – Vicki Kested, [email protected], 815-291-5855 August Activities – John Scott, [email protected] 2-7 NYLT – Cancelled Camping – Bob Boyer, [email protected], 815-369-2834 4 Courier deadline, September printed edition 7 Last day to register for Annie Oakley Dhooting Event Popcorn Chair – Christine Gable, [email protected] 21-22 Annie Oakley Shooting Event, Camp Lowden 815-275-3280 Advancement and Recognition – Jeanie Santa Cruz ,
The Importance of Volunteer Leaders
• No one understands children better than their parents. • They have a vast spectrum of skills and knowledge. • They are dedicated and caring. • They provide values-based leadership and living examples.
An average of three youth members are in Scouting for each adult leader. More than 4,500 leaders provide Scouting to more than 13,000 youth members in Blackhawk Area Council. Nationally, there are 5 million members and 1.5 million leaders. The value? We could not afford to pay for this kind of leadership. Scouting is a bargain, thanks to you, the leader. Page 33 June 2020
Arrowhead District Serving Grant, Lafayette, and Green Counties in Wisconsin
Arrowhead District Committee Arrowhead District Calendar District Chair – Open June 21 Father’s Day District Commissioner – Dan Frommelt, danielfrommelt@gmail. 26 Deadline to register pinewood derby car com, 608-732-8536, July District Activities – Kevin Olson, , [email protected] 3 Council service center closed 608-778-1950 4 Independence Day, council service center closed District Advancement – Jim Bussan, 608-568-3177 7 Courier deadline, August Internet Issue Cub Scout Advancement – Ame Ellis, [email protected], 11 Scout Night with the Rivets, Rockford – Postponed 815-541-7597 15 #CayonLowdenDay District Finance – Open 15` Trail’s End Popcorn Webinar FOS – Dee Woolf, 608-348-7403 15 Council-Wide Popcorn Kickoff Popcorn – Bruce Small, [email protected], 815-266-1980 18 Virtual Pinewood Derby District Committee member – Dan Bestul, Bestul bestul@ 18 Scouting for Food flyer distribution, Monroe area 23 Trail’s End Popcorn Webinar duxstadlaw.com, ,608-214-4926 25 Scouting for Food pick-up, Monroe area Camping Chair – Molley Jerret, Jerret [email protected], 608-330-1875 August Cub Scout Roundtable – Dick Davies, [email protected], 2-7 NYLT – Cancelled 608-778-4029 Cub Roundtable – Dick Davies 4 Courier deadline, September printed edition Scouts BSA Roundtable – Pam Conley, [email protected], 608-822- 7 Last day to register for Annie Oakley Dhooting Event 3633 21-22 Annie Oakley Shooting Event, Camp Lowden
Scouting for Food Monroe Area July 18 and 25 Troop Leader Resources Website Link to “Troop Leader Resources” Website Please join us for the Monroe, Wisconsin, area (Arrowhead District), all-ages, Scout service project “Scouting for Food.” Only a few hours In order to deliver the PROMISE OF SCOUTING, youth on two different Saturdays can make a difference in our community by and adult troop leaders need to plan a program that is involving, collecting food for those in need. It also gives Scouts service hours for challenging, and FUN! rank advancement. This website is filled with videos, action photos, useful On Saturday, July 18, Scouts and their families will meet in information and practical ideas, to help make it easier for youth Monroe’s north Twining Park parking lot at 9 a.m. to receive flyers and adult troop leaders to present Scout meetings that are fun with and area assignments. You’ll then go out with your family/the people positive outcomes. you live with and distribute the flyers in that area. (Most likely done by 11:30 a.m. or sooner) On Saturday, July 25, Scouts and their families will meet again at 10 a.m. in the Middle School parking lot to get our area assignments and go out to collect food! Once you have finished your area (or your vehicle is really full), please bring the food to the Green County Food Pantry. (Most likely you will be done by noon or sooner) Scouts go in rain, shine, or heat and this is no exception, so please dress for the weather. It would be nice to wear your field uniform (the official uniform) or camp (Scout T-shirts) uniform but it is not required. Any questions? Please email [email protected]. Hope you are able to join us for one or both Saturdays!” Tamara Richardson Committee Chair Pack 101 Committee Member Troops 101 and 114G