Spring Issue 2013 West

What’s Inside This Issue: Dear Scouters,

Council News 1-5 On March 21, the Council celebrated the achievements of the 2012 Class of Eagle Scouts and the accomplishments of four volunteers who received the Council’s highest honor, the Silver Advancements 6-9 Beaver award. The annual recognition dinner at the Feather Sound Country Club was a great night for . The dinner reminded us of all the hard work you freely give to make the Districts/Exploring 10-13 program a success for young people. For a number of years now, the council has struggled to grow its membership and increase it financial support. Certainly the economy in the last few 14 years hasn’t helped the latter.

Scout Shop News 15 The West Central Florida Council receives a Charter to operate annually, just as you do. The National Council has three Charters it can issue: Boatswain 16 1. Regular Charter Eagle Scouts 17 2. Conditional Charter 3. Transitional Charter Tributes 18 Our Council has received a Conditional Charter for 2013 based upon continued membership Training Schedule 18 losses and operating deficits.

Throughout the year, the Council will be evaluated on the following goals: 1. Attain District Friends of Scouting goal of $178,000 by June 30, 2013. 2. Achieve budgeted Council Friends of Scouting goal of $382,000 by September 30, 2013. 3. Grow traditional membership (Cub , Venturer) from 3,576 to 3,648 a 2% increase by June 30, 2013. 4. Grow traditional membership from 4,537 youth to 4,800 youth while maintaining a net unit gain, by December 31, 2013. 5. Grow Explorers from 288 youth to 300 by December 31, 2013. 6. Achieve council net budgeted total direct support (Friends of Scouting, project sales, special events) goal of $447,000 by December 31, 2013. 7. Have a balanced Operating Budget without reducing current youth serving executive professional staff size. 8. Audit completed, board approved and submitted to the National Council on or before June 30, 2013. 9. Attain Silver level in Journey to Excellence moving the needle from 1,275 to 1,300 points.

The requirements to be met in the Conditional Charter were somewhat negotiable and were revised and finalized on March 14, 2013 at the Council’s Executive Committee Meeting. Every Council in America is expected to grow their membership and operate with a balanced budget, we’re not in alignment with those reasonable expectations.

There are three things that your unit can do to help meet the Conditional Charter terms: 1. Schedule a Family Friends of Scouting Presentation before mid-May. This division is 51% of the District Friends of Scouting of $178,000. As of March 22, the Family Division raised $32,836 towards the goal of $90,000. 2. Encourage your unit to sell Camp Cards as a tool to help your Scouts get to camp, or buy uniforms, books, gear, ect. Camp Cards only cost $5.00 and your unit keeps half. Participate in the annual Trail’s End popcorn sale in the fall. 3. Conduct a membership drive before school is out for the summer. If every unit ended 2013 with 2 more boys than last year, we would make our goal.

The Council Executive Board and District Volunteer Leadership are tackling all the other issues in the Conditional Charter. Not meet- ing all of these conditions in the time framed noted will bring to bear serious consequences; the possibility of being forced to merge with another Council which assuredly means the loss of one or both of our camps.

We greatly appreciate your leadership in our Council and ask for your cooperation.

Tom Stoner Eric Renker William Davis Council President Council Commissioner Scout Executive

11046 Johnson Boulevard Seminole, Florida 33772-4715 Office: 727-391-3800 Fax: 727-392-1080 Scout Shop: 727-391-5373 http://www.wcfcbsa.org Camp Renovation Updates

Camp Soule “The Ed Schatzman Training Center at Conover Hall”, formerly known as the Dining Hall has undergone major renovations. A $100,000 gift from AAA Auto Club South and friends in memory of Ed Schatzman, a life-long Scouter and Senior VP of AAA made this much needed renovation a reality. Extensive work has been done to the exterior and interior of the building, including new restrooms. A kitchen upgrade was possible by a grant from Publix Super Markets Charities.

Air conditioning the dining hall is the next phase of the remodeling project and will be installed this spring, in time for day camp. This anxiously-awaited improvement will make the dining hall more comfortable and attractive to all kinds of activi- ties in the future.

Former Council President, Southern Region Executive Board member, Scouter and friend, Johnny Aide chaired a campaign to raise additional funds needed to complete the renovations. Contributions will go towards replacing the roof and installing air-conditioning. You can help support this project by purchasing a personalized brick that will be part of the new outdoor deck at the Dining Hall.

$125-$249 4x8 brick 18 characters per line x 3 lines $250-$999 8x8 brick 18 characters per line x 6 lines $1,000-up 12x12 brick 23 characters per line x 10 lines

Sand Hill Scout Reservation The Shooting Sports range is being renovated with the assistance of the Hernando County Sheriff’s Department. The firing berm is being replaced and an air pistol range is being built.

Congratulations to the 2013 Silver Beaver Recipients:

Edward Covel Jeanette McCullough Daniel Mullett Theresa Ronayne

The is the highest honor that can be bestowed upon a volunteer by a Council in the . Year-round Online Camp Reservations

The West Central Florida Council, Boy Scouts of America is pleased to announce the launching of the Camp Reservation System which is now available at www.wcfcbsa.org!! This new feature allows units the ability to logon and reserve campsites, equipment, program areas and much more.

We realize that a lot of you have a busy Scouting year ahead of you and we want to help ease the process of planning your camping trips as much as possible. Even if you don’t have an exact date in mind, logon to see what’s available. Once you have a definite date all you have to do is reserve, pay, get your receipt and have a GREAT trip!

Just a few reasons the new system is so awesome (and important things to keep in mind):

 Eliminates the process of calling ahead to see if something is available  Multiple buildings/locations/equipment can be added to your cart at one time  Going GREEN is always a plus especially this day in age, we are happy to eliminate camp usage forms, envelopes, postage, or even a trip into the office  The ability to navigate from one camp to the other during one transaction  Reservations are still made on a first come-first serve basis (**at least 2 weeks in advance**)  Campsite reservations are done by weekends only. When checking availability, check by Friday's date as reservations are made from Friday through Sunday.  All payments are collected ahead of time, even the $1.25/person/night (refunds to unit accounts are available in cases of over payment/less individuals attending)  If you have a special request i.e. equipment please contact Donna Felsh at the Council Service Center at (727) 391-3800 Ext. 212.

We welcome your feedback on the new system and please let us know if you find any problems or bugs that we need to be aware of. Please email Donna Felsh ([email protected]) or Debbie Presler ([email protected]) with your questions or comments.

Need Quality Trained Youth for Your Youth Run Program? Working on Journey to Excellence?

National Youth Leadership Training Conference WHAT IF: Your Youth Leadership Team had a Tool Box of Training, using current corporate leadership skills within the framework of the Scout Oath and to:

Set a Vision Prepare a Plan and achieve a Goal. Using SMART (Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Relevant, Timely). Problem Solve. Assessment tools (Start Stop Continue). How to effectively use EDGE (Explain, Demonstrate, Guide, Enable). Conflict Resolution (EAR Express, Address, Resolve). Make Ethical Decisions Communication Skills Skills for Valuing People (ROPE Reach Out, Organize, Practice, Experience).

All this while they Play! Team Games, First Aid Challenge, Campfires, Geocaching Game, Round Robin of Team Building Games.

National Youth Leadership Training (NYLT) is an intense outdoor leadership training experience for youth troop, team and crew leaders. The course goal is to prepare young men and women to become superior leaders in their troop, crew, district, council, and other organizations they belong to now, and in the future.

West Central Florida Council’s 2013 National Youth Leadership Training will be held at Sand Hill Scout Reservation. The training lasts six days starting with check-in at Noon on Sunday, July 14, 2013 and ending on the Friday, July 19, 2013 with check-out at 8:00 pm. The cost is $175.00 per person. Registration forms are available on www.wcfcbsa.org

Paddle Craft Safety Purpose

April 2013 Paddle Craft Safety expands the Safety Afloat training to include skills and knowledge to prepare a unit leader to prevent, recognize, and respond to boating emergencies 5-7 Weekend #2 during unit activities. Although Safety Afloat training provides guidelines for conducting boating activities and is 12-14 Leave No Trace Trainer required of unit leaders it does not provide the skills training mandated by those guidelines. This course 12-14 OA Section Conference supplements and provides in-depth training. The course takes approximately 8 hours and is valid for three years. 13-14 Cub Family Camp—Soule Trained PCS Cards will be issued after passing required 20 Paddle Craft Safety skills and completing the test exam with a score of 80% or higher. This course will be instructed by a BSA 20 BALOO and WOLT Training Aquatics Instructor and the WCFC Aquatics Committee team. Join us April 20, 2013 at Camp Soule Aquatics 20 Trainer’s EDGE Facility the cost is $15.00. Registration closes April 14. 24 Scoutmaster Specifics Part 1 of 2 Swimming Water Rescue Purpose 27 Swimming Water Rescue Swimming Water Rescue expands the Safe Swim Defense training to include skills and knowledge to prepare a unit leader to prevent, recognize, and respond to swimming emergencies during unit swim activities. Although Safe Swim Defense training provides guidelines for conducting safe swimming activities and is required of unit leaders it does not provide the skills training mandated by those guidelines. This course supplements and provides in-depth training. The course takes approximately 8 hours and is valid for three years. Trained SWR Cards will be issued after passing required skills and completing the test exam with a score of 80% or higher. This course will be instructed by a BSA Aquatics Instructor and the WCFC Aquatics Committee team. Join us April 27, 2013 at Camp Soule Aquatic Facility the cost is $15.00. Registration closes April 21.

BSA Lifeguard

The focus of BSA Lifeguard is professional lifeguarding. This intensive course is directed primarily at summer camp staff, but is available for Scouters as well. Participants must be strong swimmers, motivated, and mature, and must be 15 years or older. Requirements include accomplishing a 550 yard swim in an active manner and a timed weight recovery, to be tested at the beginning of the course. Participants May 2013 must pass all other physical requirements and pass a written test. Participants must 1 BSA Lifeguard Training hold or obtain current certificates in CPR/AED for the Professional Rescuer and Basic Part 1 of 4 First Aid. Boy Scout leaders who wish to supervise swimming with their units can take Swimming and Water Rescue instead. There are four days of training, May 1, 4, 8 1 Scoutmaster Specifics and 11 with May 18 as a makeup date held at Camp Soule Aquatics Facility. The Part 2 of 2 cost: $45.00. Cost does not cover the required CPR/First Aid training. 3-5 IOLS Training 4 BSA Lifeguard Training Trainier’s EDGE Part 2 of 4 The Trainer’s EDGE helps develop the skills of a trainer. It focuses on improving 8 BSA Lifeguard Training the participant’s training skills. Only practice can polish these skills, but this course Part 3 of 4 is intended to “train the trainer” on behaviors and resources while offering hands-on 11 BSA Lifeguard Training experience in methods and media pre-requisite: Please bring a prepared 10 minute Part 4 of 4 presentation on a topic from any OFFICIAL BSA material, plus any teaching aids you would like to use. Join us April 20, 2013 at Camp Soule the cost is $10.00 and 12 Mother’s Day includes lunch. Registration deadline is April 12. 16 Program Preview BALOO and WOLT Training 24-27 Camps Closed We are taking BALOO and WOLT training and putting them together for a full day of 27 Memorial Day Outdoor Training. This course is great for any Cub , no Council Service Center matter how long or short they have been in the program. Learn the basics on how to and Scout Shop Closed plan and run outdoor events and campouts. Join us April 20th, 7:30a.m. to 5:30p.m. at Camp Soule. The cost is $15.00 and the registration deadline is April 12. Summer Camps

June 2013 Summer is just around the corner, so be sure and make plans now to attend one of the summer camp experiences here in the West Central Florida Council Pasco County Last Day of 4 School for Students Cub Scout Day Camp — attend one week or all three. Registration is through your Cub pack. Registration information and online registration is now available Pinellas County Last Day 5 online at www.wcfcbsa.org. of School for Students June 10-14 at James E Grey Preserve in New Port Richey 7-9 OA Summer Conclave June 17-21 and 9-15 Summer Camp Staff Week June 24-28 at Camp Soule

Cub Day Camp—A 10-14 James E. Grey Preserve

Day Camp Swim Test 15 at Camp Soule

Webelos Camp Residence Camp — this summer Webelos Scouts can participate 16 Father’s Day in their own four-day/three night camp program at Sand Hill. Register your pack 16-22 SHSR Summer Camp #1 today at www.wcfcbsa.org.

Cub Day Camp –B July 7-10, 2013 17-21 Camp Soule

23-19 SHSR Summer Camp #2

Cub Day Camp—C 24-28 Camp Soule Boy Scout Summer Camp— Are you looking for a 30-7-6 SHSR Summer Camp #3 close camp to have some fun? Look no further, we have a limited amount of spots still available. What if you unit is not camping locally or not at all and you want to? Not a problem we offer provisional camping!! Contact [email protected] to register today!!

Session 1—June 16-22, 2013 Session 2—June 23-29, 2013 Session 3—June 30-July 6, 2013

Updated Annual Health and Medical Record Available

An updated BSA Annual Health and Medical Record (AHMR) is now available. Its use will be mandated by Jan. 1, 2014. The new form has several changes, including a bilingual format. Another feature is a scanable Part C, a pre-participation physical that will facilitate electronically capturing key data for faster intake at large events and camps, like the National Boy Scout and the high adventure bases.

As always, careful planning went into the development of the updated version, with input coming from councils, volunteers, and the National Health and Safety Team. These revisions do not include any changes to BSA policy and will benefit everyone in Scouting, no matter what adventure is being planned.

Units should discard all older Health Form versions and start using the updated version immediately. Download at www.scouting.org/scoutsource/HealthandSafety/ahmr.aspx. WCFC Advancement

Advancement Videos– EducationalEducational PresentationsPresentations ReleasedReleased

Nine presentations, all available on-line, havehave beenbeen createdcreated soso farfar toto helphelp orientorient volunteervolunteer advancementadvancement administratorsadministrators withwith fufundamentalndamental elementselements ofof thethe BoyBoy ScoutScout advancementadvancement program.program. TheseThese PowerPoiPowerPointnt presentations,presentations, alongalong withwith othersothers inin thethe planningplanning stagesstages soonsoon toto bebe released,released, areare voice-overvoice-over productiproductions,ons, convertedconverted toto videovideo format.format. TheyThey covercover manymany veryvery importantimportant andand sometimessometimes “sticky”“sticky” issuesissues ttoo helphelp buildbuild aa betterbetter understandingunderstanding ofof howhow BSABSA policiespolicies andand proceduresprocedures forfor advancadvancementement shouldshould bebe interpreted.interpreted. TheThe presentationspresentations areare briefbrief anandd easyeasy toto useuse forfor aa varietyvariety ofof forums.forums. The following presentations are all available at: http://www.scouting.org/scoutsource/BoyScouts/GuideforMeritBadgeCounselors/Resources/http://www.scouting.org/scoutsource/BoyScouts/GuideforMeritBadgeCounselors/Resources/advancement_presentations.aspxadvancement_presentations.aspx

1. Introduction to the Guide to Advancement 5. The Eagle Scout Service Project 2. Jud Judgmentgment Calls (defining “active,” positions of 6. The Eagle Scout Application Process responsibility,responsibility, ScoutScout spirit,spirit, andand “reasonable”)“reasonable”) 7. Eagle Scout Boards of Review 3. The Merit Badge Program 8. Boards of Review Under Disputed Circumstances 4. Boards of Review 9. Appeals of a Board of Review Decision

In addition on an associated site you may view the following video.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=rOvyXRnn9l0

This was presented for the annual BSA National meeting held in Orlando last summer. You'll see, among others, Diane Cannon (volunteer chairman) and Chris Hunt (Team Leader), from the National Advancement Team. The entire presentation will never earn an Oscar or Emmy, but it is very worthwhile viewing for those that deal with BSA Advancement! It is about 50 minutes long, so schedule an appropriate quiet time accordingly and expand your knowledge of this key topic.

Merit Badge Pamphlet Updates

Merit badge counselors must be alert to the fact that many merit badge pamphlets have recently been published incorporating revised requirements. The plan this year is for 30 merit badges to be updated. While most of the planned revisions are termed "minor", never the less, they are changes. Whatever the changes, merit badge counselors are advised to at least check a copy of the new 2013 Requirements book that has been recently released or visit the website Merit Badge pages to confirm the requirements. Simply click on the appropriate merit badge patch lined up along the lower section on the page of the following site.

http://www.scouting.org/meritbadges.aspx

Also included with the merit badge changes this year are minor changes to all ranks in addition to a minor language change in an Eagle requirement.

Guide to Advancement

Release of an update to the Guide to Advancement is planned early to mid summer. Watch for it. It will expand information regarding Eagle Coaches, Video Casting, Eagle Service Project updates, Issue resolution, etc.

2014 Eagle Scout Requirement Changes

Expect a change in Eagle Scout requirements effective January 2014. Besides a change within the Cooking Merit Badge requirements later this year incorporating dietary and nutritional information, Cooking will become Eagle Required in 2014. Summer Camps Cubmasters, check into the Webelos Resident camp, July 7-10. Many activity pins and belt loops will be available to

your members along with a trip to a local roller-skating rink and the Sand Hill Festival.

Scoutmasters: at this time your unit should have selected and be registered for Summer Camp. In addition your scouts should be familiar with the advancement program available and ready to select individual merit badges and other advancement available to them. If you have any questions contact a member of your district’s advancement committee.

Sand Hill Scout Reservation is offering Boy Scouts the opportunity to earn the Horsemanship merit badge along with a prospect to sharpen each scout’s skills at paddle boarding. A few openings remain for registration, though weeks 1 & 2 have been full for some time. The Leader’s Guide is available at the following site:

http://www.sandhillscoutreservation.com/

 Week #1: June 16-22  Week #2: June 23-29  Week #3: June 30-July 6

In addition during Venturer’s camp, July 7-10, an attending Venturer will have an opportunity to satisfy some Bronze Award core and elective requirements. Also new this year will be a Venturer cooking and an equestrian program plus time each evening to relax in the pool or challenge the climbing and rappelling walls.

New Merit Badges Many new merit badges, most with emphasis on Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) are under construction and headed for release. Game Design (STEM) is to be released this (March) month. Computer Programming (STEM), the Mountain biking option to the Cycling merit badge, and the new Sustainability (STEM) merit badge (to become an Eagle required alternate to Environmental Science) are expected to be released in May and be offered at the 2013 Jamboree. Digital Technology (STEM), replacing Computers, and the aforementioned Cooking merit badges have a planned released later this year.

Future Merit Badges

Planned for 2014-15 are the following:

 Mining (STEM)  Animation (STEM)  Signs, Signals, and Codes (STEM)  Multi-Media (STEM)  Computer Aided Design (STEM)  Advanced Computer (STEM)

District Advancement Contacts

ANCLOTE: Jim Royal, (727) 735-1433; [email protected]

MICCOSUKEE: Stacey Glogowski, (727) 487-4122; [email protected] SKYWAY : Terry Shown, (727) 521-4722; [email protected]

Anclote District

The Anclote Webelos Survivalree is coming! April 27-28 will be the first-ever Anclote Survivalree. All Webelos Scouts, leaders and parents will want to make sure they are part of this exciting program be- ing put on just for Anclote Webelos Scouts at Camp Soule. Registration is $12 per person through April 12th. After the 12th, the fee goes up to $17 per person, with a final registration deadline of April 19th. No registrations will be accepted after the 19th. Survivalree t-shirts will also be available for pre-order only at $10 each. Shirts must be ordered by the April 12th deadline. Registration and t-shirts may be ordered on the council website at wcfcbsa.org under the Anclote District tab. The Survivalree staff under the leadership of Todd Miller has been working for months planning events such as Wilderness Survival, Survival Nutrition, Parachute Cord Uses and Geocaching. Participants will also construct and learn to use Beads to help them travel safely in the wilderness without getting lost. If you are a Webelos Scout, you won’t want to miss this opportunity!

Anclote Day with the Dunedin Blue Jays Come join the Anclote District on May 18th and enjoy a night at the ball park watching the Dunedin Blue Jays play baseball. In addition, we will be having a Chili Cook-off to see who can cook the best Chili in the district and will have bragging rights for the rest of the year! We want to show the Jays that Scouts really know how to cook. Details will be available in early April on the Anclote District website.

Summertime is Scouting-Time Summertime is when Scouting comes alive. It’s time to head to camp and the other high adventures your unit has been planning for all year. Cub Scouts have day camp in June, Boy Scouts have summer camp in June and July and the Venturers have a camp at Sand Hill in July. The 2013 National Boy Scout Jamboree is also happening in July this summer. So there are a lot of big events happening. Be sure and register early so you don’t miss out! Packs should also be working on their Summertime Pack Award by having an activity each month during the summer. Not only will these monthly activities be fun, but they will keep the dens and leaders active during the summer so you won’t have to hunt for them all when the den meetings start up again in the fall. Once you have completed the Summertime Pack Award requirements, you can kick of the first pack meeting in the fall with awards for all the boys that participated. Spring Recruitment Recruiting new members for your unit shouldn’t happen just in the fall—it should be a year-round effort. Encourage your youth Anclote District Calendar\ members to invite their friends and sports team mates throughout

the year. You can have a contest each month for the youths who 4/10 Roundtable bring in new members and have special events for the new mem- 4/24 District Commissioner Meeting bers. However, Springtime is the perfect time to invite groups of 4/25 District Committee Meeting newly-eligible members (like Kindergarten boys) so they can be a 4/27-28 Webelos Survivalree part of your summer activities. They may not be able to participate in the big trips you have been planning all year—but there will be 5/8 Roundtable plenty of other summer activities they can join in on. Recruiting new 5/18 Dunedin Blue Jays Scout NIght boys in the spring has the added benefit of avoiding possible bad 5/22 District Commissioner Meeting weather in the fall, which can wash out School Night. New leaders 5/23 District Committee Meeting also have the summer to get trained and know their youth before the weekly meetings start. Contact your unit commissioner for help in 6/26 District Commissioner Meeting planning your spring recruitment campaign. 6/27 District Committee Meeting Check out www.anclotedistrict.org for all the latest details on the ballgame and other Anclote District events. District Chairman District Commissioner District Executive

George Romangoli Rob Barbee Contact Asst. Scout Exec. John Baringer (727) 992-2755 (727) 534-3351 (727) 391-3800 ext 207

This is your District Committee. The hard working volunteers that help put things in place to help make this district a success. We are a team and without everyone’s support we will not be able to make it to the top. So please, if you would like to be involved and help make a difference contact any of the district Chairmen and let them know how you can help.

District Executive ~vacant~

District Chairman Ed Edstrand District Commissioner John Smith Round Table Commissioner Chris Hurley District Vice Chairman of Administration ~vacant~ Membership Chairman Steve Tincher School Night Chairman Tricia Hall Finance Chairman Ken Mason District Vice Chairman of Program Von Taylor III Assistant Program Chairman Kim DeMatteo Activities Chairman Sheryn Reeves Popcorn Kernel Delphine Nasr Chairman Chris Hurley Advancement & Recognition Chairman Stacey Glogowski Camping Chairman Bill Conlon OA Chapter Advisor Kim Knaebel Training Chairman Mark Sherman

On Saturday, April 6 we will be having the First Annual Miccosukee ! Units get your engines ready for fun-filled event being hosted by Pack 135 and Pack 413. Miccosukee District Calendar

The race will be held at Northwood Presbyterian Church, 2875 State Road 580, Clearwater, FL 33761. Meet us there with your cars ready to race the day away!!! 4/3 District Committee Meeting Don’t forget about the Largo Playing! Unplugged 2013 held on Saturday, April 13 from 2 4/6 First Annual Pinewood Derby -7 pm at Largo Central Park, 101 Central Park Dr., Largo, FL 33771. Come out and enjoy 4/10 Roundtable a fun filled day with activities encouraging playing games without batteries or electricity. 4/16 Youth Protection Training

Calling all Webelos!! This is for you!! Get ready for the annual Webelo-ree on May 10-11 4/17 District Commissioner Meeting at camp Soule. This exciting weekend,L designedED with the Webelos in mind will have many games and activitiesNC to keepE youL busy and having fun all weekend long! For more 5/1 District Committee Meeting information contactC theA District Activity Chairman or go to www.wcfcbsa.org. 5/8 Roundtable

And lastly, I would like to thank every single person that has the love for Scouting. We are 5/10-11 Webeloree—CANCELLED the guides in how well our children with grow up in this world. I am sad to say that after 10 5/15 District Commissioner Meeting years of working for this great organization, I have resigned to pursue my passion of 5/21 Merit Badge Training teaching. I have met many great people and have done twice as many fun things along the way. You will all be missed but remember, I’m only across the Bay and my number 6/5 District Committee Meeting has not changing so call whenever! Again, thank you all for all being great volunteers and friends. 6/12 Roundtable 6/18 Merit Badge Training Y.I.S., 6/19 District Commissioner Meeting Yehudy Diaz

District Chairman District Commissioner District Executive Contact Asst. Scout Exec. Ed Edstrand John Smith John Baringer (727) 465-8285 (727) 415-9967 (727) 391-3800 ext 207 To better serve you The Skyway District did established a couple preferred method of communication that information will be distributed to units and leaders:

Council Website: www.wcfcbsa.org and then go to Skyway District.

SKYWAY SCOUTS YAHOO GROUP: To sign up, go to: [email protected] Yahoo will put posts directly to your email inbox and allow for questions, etc. Yahoo groups email will be the PRI- MARY method of emailing reminders to you, so PLEASE sign up today! Also re- mind your fellow Scouters to do the same!!!

Facebook: Log in to Facebook and search for Skyway District of WCFC, Boy Scouts of America.

Family Friends of Scouting “Life is full of beauty. Notice it. Notice the bumble bee, the small child, and the smiling faces. Smell the rain, and feel the wind. Live your life to the fullest potential, and fight for your dreams” by Ashley Smith. Scouting is all about giving young people the skills to survive and to be a productive individual for their country. It takes some funds to operate and process all the things that makes scouting fun for the youth. A family friend of scouting is how we give our leaders and parents the opportunity to contribute to the expense of providing scouting in our area. Family Friends of scouting is our annual fundraising effort at the units’ level. We are still contacting units for dates every unit will be giving the opportunity to give. Leaders please do not assume parents are unable to give. Allow the district a quick 10minutes of your meeting time and we will explain to your group what giving to scouting is all about. Unit leaders call us or email us with the dates of your Pack, Blue and Gold, Pinewood Derbies, Court of Honor, Troop and meetings. Planning for it ahead of time will give us the opportunity to better serve you. For more information please contact Candice at [email protected]

Training New training Chair Pam O’Donnell is fired up and ready to get our district trained. Great retention is due to trained leaders. Our boys deserve trained leaders. The future of scouting depends on trained leaders. The District goal is to train all registered leaders within a reasonable amount of time. Contact Pam O’Donnell for all your train- ing needs. [email protected] Most training is available online at www.wcfcbsa.org.

Roundtable Our goal is to bring relevant information that will help revitalize your units. It gets better every month. Your com- ments and suggestions are welcomed. Roundtable occurs on the first Thursday of each month at 7:00PM. The meeting is at Clearview United Methodist Church 4515 38th Avenue North St. Petersburg, Florida. For more infor- mation please contact Boy Scout Roundtable Commissioner Todd Kennedy at [email protected] and Pam O’Donnell the Cub Scout Commissioner at [email protected] and Contact Candice Nyarkoh at [email protected]

Merit Badge College Skyway District Calendar After several years of hiatus, Merit Badge College is back. Save the date Saturday May 4th . Chairman Todd Kennedy of Troop 261 will be 4/4 District Roundtable contacting unit leaders for sign up. The registration packets will be 4/9 District Committee Meeting online and also emailed out to all Scoutmasters. You will have the op- 4/11 District Commissioners Meeting portunity to get 2 merit badges in a day. The cost for 1 merit badge is $4.00 and 2 badges is $6.00. All participants will receive a patch for 5/2 District Roundtable attending. Please contact Todd at [email protected] 5/4 Merit Badge College 5/9 District Committee Meeting 5/14 District Commissioners Meeting

6/6 District Roundtable 6/11 District Committee Meeting 6/13 District Commissioner Meeting

District Chairman District Commissioner Sr. District Executive Danny Wendt Candice Nyarkoh (727) 397-5641 (727) 576-2914 [email protected] [email protected]

Exploring Vice President Health Career Exploring Posts Tom Wellner (727) 898-6243 Post 979 All Children’s Hospital Medical Explorers: Jeanne Stevens (727) 767-4254. 1st and 3rd Weds from 4- 5:30pm.

Law Enforcement Explorer Fire Exploring Posts Posts Post 911 Safety Harbor Fire Explorers: Chuck Russell Post 900 Pinellas County Sheriff Explorers: Deputy (727) 726-7100. Mon 7pm at Station 53 on McMullen- James Butterfield at [email protected]. Tues Booth Rd. www.exploring.org/fl/posts/911/ 7-9pm at the Sheriff’s Administration Building on 10750 Ulmerton Rd. www.post900.com/ Post 941 Largo Fire Explorers: Jim Warman (727) 587-6714. Mon at 7pm at Station 38, 630 Ulmerton Post 916 Pasco County Sheriff Explorers: Corporal Rd. Theodore (727) 277-7227. Weds 6-9:30pm at Safety Town on SR 52. Post 952 St. Petersburg Fire Explorers: Randy Kahle, [email protected] 1st and 3rd Weds at 7pm main Post 980 St Petersburg Police Explorers: Officer Janie fire station in St. Pete. Staples (727) 892-5082. Mon night (except holidays) 6-8:30pm at 1301 First Ave. N (Training Building - across Post 969 North Pinellas County Fire Explorers: Kevin the street from the police department). Dept. Website - Scanlan (727) 487-4843. Weds at 7pm at Tarpon Fire http://www.stpete.org/police/index.html Station 69.

Post 995 Gulfport Police Explorers: Contact Officer Post 945 Pinellas Park Fire Explorers: Contact Louis Jennifer Crowson at [email protected] Sclafani at [email protected] every other Thurs at 7pm.

Announcing “The” all new West Central Florida Council

Wood Badge/NYLT Council Shoulder Patch (CSP)!

There are a limited number of these patches available. The primary purpose of the funds raised will be used to assist with Wood Badge and National Youth Leader Training to offer scholarships, as well as to purchase and/or replace course program materials, which allows us to offset some course expenses. The funds will be split 50/50 between the programs. They are $10 each and available for purchase at the Scout Shop or you can download an order form at www.wcfcbsa.org.

There is a new group of Scouters wearing plaid Troop 1 neckerchiefs. The 36 participants attending S4- 89-13 had a mountain-top experience under the direction of Course Director Natalie Coser and her staff. They were at Camp Soule on March 8-10 and again on April 5-7, 2013 for the practical phase of the course. The application phase lasts up to 18 months to complete the 5 goals of their ticket. This class of participants have until October 7, 2014 to complete the requirements and earn their beads. Please give them your support and encouragement. The Order of the Arrow, Scouting’s National , provides Troops an opportunity to recognize those Scouts who best exemplify the Scout Oath and Law in their daily lives. The purpose of the Order of the Arrow is to develop camping tradi- tions and promote Scout camping, and to crystallize the Scout habit of helpfulness into a life of cheerful service. The Order of the Arrow is designed to strengthen Troops and challenge Scouts with leadership opportunities. The Order of the Arrow does not remove youth leaders from their Troops. Once each charter year, a Troop may hold an election to elect Scouts to the Order of the Arrow. In order to schedule an election, a Scoutmaster must contact Howard Anderson at [email protected] or (727) 577-7446. Please note this change in leadership!

Timuquan Lodge members must renew their dues annually. It is time for past and present members of the Order of the Arrow to renew their dues. Dues cost $15 which includes your National charter fee and a subscription to The Eagle, the official publication of Timuquan Lodge. Members inducted in other Lodges who are now registered in West Central Florida Council are welcome to join Timuquan Lodge. Simply pay your $15 dues and include a completed copy of the Membership Information Form found at: http://timuquanlodge.com/ assets/files/forms/brotherhood_retention/Membership_Information_Request_Form.pdf

Timuquan Lodge inducted nine brothers into the Vigil Honor at the 2013 Spring Fellowship. Please congratulate our new Brothers in the Vigil: Andrew case, Bruce Hoover, Kathy Labus, Bruce Nichols, Kyle Nicol, Scott Peck Jr., Casey Sammel, Alex Smith and Max Viera. Each has contributed countless hours and efforts towards Timuquan Lodge, West Central Florida Council and our camps.

Please congratulate the 2013-14 Timuquan Lodge Chief, Nick Fatolitis! Nick is an Eagle Scout from Troop 475. He deserves our support and help. He will be recruiting Lodge members to help him lead Timuquan Lodge the next 12 months. If you are a member of Timuquan Lodge and under the age of 21 years and want to help, contact Nick.

Timuquan’s next event is the Summer Conclave at Sand Hill Scout Reservation. Please join us on June 7-9, 2013 and help prepare Sand Hill for summer camp. This year promises to be a great summer for Sand Hill and we will need all available Arrowmen to help get the camp ready. The Summer Conclave is an opportunity for Scouts to take their Ordeal and for Ordeal members to seal their membership through the Brotherhood ceremony.

Lodge Chief Lodge Adviser Lodge Staff Adviser Nick Fatolitis Ken Knaebel John Baringer (727) 410-6207 (727) 547-4889 (727) 391-3800 [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] Timuquan Lodge 340 http://www.timuquanlodge.com “Be Prepared” for Summer Camp

The Scout Shop has all your needs for Summer Camp such as shorts, socks, shirts, hats, canteens, merit badge books, tri-pod stools, and much more.

Come by and see us and have a great Scouting day!

11046 Johnson Blvd. Seminole, FL 33772‐4715 (727) 391‐5373 (727) 392‐1080 Fax [email protected]

Barbara Nichols– Shop Manager

Monday 9:00 am — 7:30 pm Limited Time Only Tuesday 9:00 am — 5:00 pm while supplies last Wednesday 9:00 am — 5:00 pm BSA Crooked Creek Tent $49.88 Thursday 9:00 am — 6:00 pm Friday 9:00 am — 5:00 pm (2-person tent) *Saturday 9:00 am — 1:00 pm *(1st & 2nd Sat. of the month excluding holiday weekends)

Announcement 2013-2014 National Boatswain

The National Sea Scout Support Committee announces the selection of Billy McElligott of Dunedin, Florida as the 2013-2014 National Sea Scout Boatswain. His term of office is June 1, 2013 through May 31, 2014. He is a member of Ship 956, Carpe Diem of the West Central Florida Council, Boy Scouts of America.

Billy will represent Sea Scouts from across the as the youth representative on the National Sea Scout Committee. He will report to the National Commodore and the National Director of Sea Scouts. He will serve as the liaison with the Regional Boatswains’ and other youth leaders.

Billy is currently an Able Sea Scout, but is expected to qualify for his Quartermaster Award this year. He is a member of Ship 956, and during his tenure in Sea Scouts, he has served his ship as Ship Boatswain, Boatswain’s Mate, and Coxswain. He has served as the Southern Region Boatswain for the past two years. He is a graduate of Sea Scout SEAL in 2012 at the Miami, Florida course. Billy has earned his Long Cruise Award; Qualified Seaman; Small Boat Handler; Venturing Silver, Gold and Bronze awards; and is a BSA Lifeguard.

He is also a member of the United States Coast Guard Auxiliary and a member of the St. Petersburg Sail and Power Squadron and the West Palm Sail and Power Squadron. He has submitted documentation and awaiting the results for qualification for the United States Coast Guard Licensed Captain status. He holds an Open Water/Beach Lifeguard Certification with the American Red Cross and is a member of the Dunedin Boat Club. His certifications also include: FAA Private Pilot Certification, PADI’s Advanced Open Water SCUBA Certification, EMT National Emergency Medical Technician, and CPR/AED/Oxygen Certification with the American Red Cross.

Billy is currently a freshman at the Florida Atlantic University with a double major in political science and biomedical sciences. His goal is to attend law school to eventually work foreign policy and diplomacy actions for the United States Coast Guard.

Billy shares his reasoning for wanting to serve as the . His goals cover the areas of marketing, recruitment, and communication. While serving as the National Boatswain, he would like to establish monthly communications with the Region Boatswains to discuss ideas, events, and recruitment practices. He would also like to focus on using social media in order to publicize the Sea Scouting program as well as to continue sharing our great program. This would help in promotion of an incredibly strong, vibrant Sea Scout presence within the Boy Scouts of America.

Join us in congratulating Billy McElligott in his selection as the 2013-2014 National Sea Scout Boatswain!

The West Central Florida Council is proud to announce our newest Eagle Scouts:

Oliver Anderson, Troop 334 - Clearview United Methodist Church Men’s Fellowship Andrew Belanger, Troop 334 - Clearview United Methodist Church Men’s Fellowship Aaron Bernard, Troop 318 - St Lukes United Methodist Church Daniel Bryan, Troop 468 - St Paul United Methodist Church Robert Core, Troop 135 - Heritage United Methodist Church Kyle Keup, Troop 86 - First United Methodist Church of Hudson Jonathon Rochon, Troop 375 - Calvary Chapel St Petersburg Rawlyn Rogers, Troop 468 - St Paul United Methodist Church James Sebesta, Troop 431 - Blessed Sacrament Church Robert Simpson, Troop 313 - Church of Scientology Alexander Smith, Crew 468 - St Paul United Methodist Church Samuel Smith, Troop 85 - LDS- Palm Harbor Ward – St Pete Stake Jozef Soja, Troop 431 - Blessed Sacrament Church Alexander Uzzo, Troop 434 - St Alfreds Episcopal Church Jay Winters, Troop 484 - First Lutheran Church Connor Washburn, Troop 77 - Trinity Presbyterian Church of Seven Springs Jonathan Wilgus, Troop 261 - Riviera United Methodist Church

To make a donation to the Boy Scouts of America, make your check payable to BSA and sent it to the address below. Be sure to include on the memo line of the check the following: \Ç `xÅÉÜç Éy‹ The name of the person for which the donation is being made and one of the following, in memory of, in recognition of, or in honor of. An acknowledgement will be sent indi-

cating that a gift (not the amount) has been received.

Eugene Winland Mail your Gift to:

TRIBUTE FUND by West Central Florida Council, BSA

11046 Johnson Boulevard Gib Bradbury Seminole, Florida 33772-4715 Dr. Albert & Laura Geiger Debbie Presler Ronald & Sherry Rasmusen In Memory In Honor In Recognition Other(specify)

William Walker Please acknowledge:

Gift from:

Training Update

Plan now for the fall! Do you have the proper trained leadership for your outdoor programs?

The council training committee is working to provide many opportunities to increase the percentage of trained leaders. Take advantage of these opportunities and earn JTE points too! Here are some scheduled events in April and May to add to your calendars! Go to the council website and click on the date in the council calendar. The link will take you directly to online registration – it’s that easy!

・ BALOO and WOLT – April 20th ・ Scoutmaster Specifics – April 24th and May 1st (two part course – both dates required) ・ Introduction to Outdoor Leader Skills – May 3-5th ・ Program Preview – May 16th – Information on future training events, council events and more!

Welcome to the latest additions to the training team – Pam O’Donnell and Mark Sharman. They are each stepping into district training positions and have a lot of enthusiasm for developing units and supporting their training needs.

If you need any assistance or have questions about training for your unit please reach out to any of the following training chairs.

Council Training Chairman Anclote Training Chairman Miccosukee Training Chairman Skyway Training Chairman

Natalie Coser Rick Llanas Mark Sharman Pamela O’Donnell (727) 785-9786 (727) 207-5985 (727) (727) [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected]

Scouters’ News Subscription Order Form

We have eliminated the printed issue of the Scouters’ News in our coun- cil’s effort to reduce resources and “Go Green”. Subscriptions are avail- able to those who wish to still have a printed copy mailed directly to them. Subscriptions will be $6.50 annually and will cover the printing and mailing costs. The Scouters’ News is a quarterly newsletter; to arrive the first of January, April, July and October of the each year.

To place your order please contact Donna Felsh at 737-391-3800 or email her at [email protected] or mail the form below to:

West Central Florida Council, BSA c/o Scouters’ News Subscription 11046 Johnson Boulevard Seminole, FL 33772-4715

Name:______Address:______City, State, Zip: ______Phone:______Payment method: Check Credit Card #______Expiration Date:___/___ 3-digit code on back:______

Signature:______