Scouts…Earn Your Way to Scout Camp Free!!

SCOUTER

The Mission of the Boy Scouts of America is to prepare young people to make ethical choices over their lifetimes by instilling in them the values of the Scout Oath and Law. 2 ~ MARCH/APRIL 2009 HOORAY FOR HEROES Scouter “We have been following the plan!”

“We have been following the plan!”

Sometimes it’s beyond my reach to ﬁ nd an inspirational Scouting topic to share with everybody who actually reads this article (all 55 of you at last count!). Then again, sometimes ideas just materialize out of the blue!

Each February, as anyone who has been in Scouting for ﬁ ve minutes knows, is our month to celebrate the anniversary of the Boy Scouts of America and for every Cub Scout pack in the United States (and beyond) to put on a spectacular Blue and Gold banquet.

This past February 28, I had the opportunity to be a guest of Cub Scout Pack 3026 in Allegan. (Thank you Cubmaster Frank Andrews and leaders!)

What a fantastic Blue and Gold program and an extremely well run Cub Scout Pack!

Now, your question to me should be: “What are your criteria for making such a statement?”

Well, I am glad you asked (you did ask, right? ). Here are the quality points I watched for:

1) Super cool invitation related to the Blue and Gold theme 2) Cub Scout greeters at the door 3) Well laid-out and colorful, themed items throughout (wall decorations, table centerpieces, etc.) 4) Reserved places or tables for guests 5) Well thought-out dinner or food service plan 6) Seating by dens with each parent having a table role to perform 7) Lots and lots of properly uniformed and smiling leaders (leaders having as much fun as youth) 8) Starts on time and ends in a timely manner 9) Opening ﬂ ag ceremony and meal prayer 10) Explain the theme of the evening and introduce guests 11) Strong but brief message from a keynote speaker 12) Presentation of limited and special awards only 13) KISMIF (keep it simple, make it fast/fun) 14) Real, thought-out award ceremony 15) Recognition of all Pack volunteer leaders 16) Powerful Arrow of Light and crossover ceremony 17) Written program for everyone, written “announcements” 18) 100 percent Webelos crossover (makes a statement about Webelos den and local Scout Troop relation- ships) 19) Great helpers and servers (Cub Scout leaders Roseanne Hall and Julie Jenison of Cub Scout Pack 3097 in Wayland were awesome!) 20) Powerful closing ceremony; leave them inspired 21) After closing, duties of table captains (parents) take place 22) After closing, den leader award presentations to Cub Scouts (all other awards 23) Written thank you notes to guests and key helpers Scouter HOORAY FOR HEROES MARCH/APRIL 2009 ~ 3

Long list, huh? Impossible you say? No one can do all 23 of those things! Really? Please don’t tell that to the leaders of Pack 3026!

This pack focused its entire Blue and Gold on 1) brief, powerful ceremony for Arrow of Light awards (and it was an awesome ceremony!), rank awards and religious awards; 2) recognizing and thanking their leaders; and 3) a super Boy Scout crossover ceremony. Perfect!!

When I caught up with Cubmaster Andrews to thank him for the invitation and super evening, he smiled and said, “We just followed the plan!”

Congratulations Cub Scout Pack 3026! You presented a quality program No wonder your pack is growing!

Hooray for the heroes who keep it simple but always make it fun!

Hooray for the heroes who wear their uniforms and serve our Scouts!

After 30plus years as a professional Scout leader, I have witnessed ﬁ rst hand the great, the good, the bad and the ugly of unit-conducted ceremonies and dinners. I hope yours was a great one. Follow the plan and it will be. After all, our Scouts deserve our very best!!

My Best,

Michael D. Sulgrove Scout Executive

P.S. In the past two weeks, I have talked with 50 or so Cubmasters, Scoutmasters and other Scouting leaders who have told me that in every Webelos-to-Scout crossover, the Scout joined a Boy Scout Troop! One hundred percent! Fantastic! Super! Awesome! Too Cool! Way to follow the plan! 4 ~ MARCH/APRIL 2009 Scouter COUNCILCALENDAR ORDER OF THE ARROW SPRING CONCLAVE- MARCH MAY 15-17, 2009 Feb-March 1 Summer Camp Staff Training GERBER SCOUT CAMP 2 Scoutreach Committee Meeting, DeVos Family Center for Scouting 14 Spring Sale Begins Our annual Spring 15 OA Executive Committee Meeting, DeVos Family Center for Conclave for the Scouting, 2:00-4:00 p.m. Order of the Ar- 17 Venturing Offi cers Association Meeting, DeVos Family Center for row is just around Scouting, 6:30-8:30 p.m. the corner. Here 19 Board of Directors Meeting, DeVos Family Center for Scouting, are some things 6:30 p.m. that you should 19 Council Key 3 Meeting, DeVos Family Center for Scouting know about it: 1. Many service hours 19 Day Camp Committee Meeting, DeVos Family Center for Scouting 19 Trust Advisory Committee Meeting, DeVos Family Center for will be given to help get Gerber Scout Scouting Camp ready for another incredible 21 Scouting for Food (Bags Out) summer. 2. The youth in each chapter 21 Trainer Development Conference, DeVos Family Center for Scout- will be selecting new chiefs. 3. The ing youth will be electing a lodge chief. 4. 26 Endowment Meeting, DeVos Family Center for Scouting, 6:00 p.m. Fellowship-there will be plenty. 5. The 28 Scouting for Food Bag Collection food is guaranteed to be top notch. This 31 Scouter Articles Deadline (May-June Issue) looks like the start of a top ten list as to why you should participate in Spring APRIL Conclave. The bottom line is that you 6 Scoutreach Committee Meeting, DeVos Family Center for Scouting should make every effort to participate. 10 Good Friday, DeVos Family Center for Scouting Closed It is your obligation as an Arrowman. 10 National Scout Shop - OPEN For more details, please keep an eye out 16 Day Camp Committee Meeting, DeVos Family Center for Scouting, for your Sparks from the Fire. Feel free 6:30-9:00 p.m. 17 Council Offi cers Meeting, DeVos Family Center for Scouting, to look on the Lodge website as well at 6:30-9:00 p.m. https://www.bigtent.com/groups/nachat- 17-19 Webelos Leader Outdoor Training, Gerber Scout Camp, indey 5:00pm Fri til 11:00am Sun 17-19 Introduction to Outdoor Leader Skills Training, Gerber Scout Camp, 5:00pm Fri til 11:00am Sun 18 Baloo Training, Gerber Scout Camp, 8:00am-5:00pm 18 Spring Sale Ends 19 OA Executive Committee, DeVos Family Center for Scouting, 2:00-4:00pm 20 Fundraising Committee Meeting, DeVos Family Center for Scouting 21 Venturing Offi cers Association Meeting, DeVos Family Center for Scouting, 6:30-7:30pm 24-25 Day Camp Training 25 Troop Leadership Training Workshop, DeVos Family Center for Scouting, 8:00am-5:00pm 25 Venturing Food, Fire, Fun, DeVos Family Center for Scouting 30 Endowment Meeting, DeVos Family Center for Scouting, 6:00pm Scouter COUNCIL HAPPENINGS MARCH/APRIL 2009 ~ 5 TRIBUTE FUND POPCORN TOP SELLERS At the January Council Board of Directors Meet- Contributions have been made In Memory of: ing the Gerald R. Ford Council recognized each of the districts’ top sellers. The board also rec- Gordon J. Martiny from Marilyn and Burrill Colburn, Shirley D. Kison (Ray Baker, Jack Kison), Bill Rocker ognized the top three sellers in the council. The top three sellers in the Gerald R. William G.H. Smith from Mr. and Mrs. T. Jarowic, Mr. Roy Emp- Ford Council are: Nick McMa- nus, Pack 3026, Ryan Montgom- son, Mrs. Pearl E. Smith ery, Pack 3165 and Dylan Lorenz Pack 3090. We would like to Randall J. Baar from Mike and Francie Sulgrove, John H. Myaard CLU CHFC, Mr. and Mrs. James VerPlank, Adam and Elizabeth thank all of our Scouts and leaders for our best popcorn sale ever. Rolinski, Janice Buckley, Edward and Lynne Kinkema, John Van Dam, Robert Bishop, Mary and David Query, Susan E. DeKock, James and Virginia Jurries, Carol Gilcrest, Dave and Barb Paul- son, The Feyen’s (Chet and Myrna, Chuck and Pat, Jim and Deb), The Top Sellers in the Districts are: Ms. Joan Johnson, Peter Elzinga, Dr. and Mrs. William F. Rocker, Scott and Sally Kiekintveld, Alan and Gail Hering, Deb and Tom Five Rivers: Alex Drent, Pack 3322 Ludwig, Elaine and Douglas Schaedler, Cleon and Ellie Morgan, Mary Bicknell, Kathryn Steffens, Bunk and Norma VanArk, Nancy Max Majinska, Pack 3188 Tristen Perrone, Pack 3071 and James VanDam, Tom Wolterink and Sandy Buller, Ed and Joan Fuder, Gary Lucas, Carol and Phillip Knoll, Eric and Tanya Seif, Pere Marquette: Tom and Judy Bublitz and Sons - Kelly, Tim, Clinton Bublitz all Eagle Scouts, James and Mary Keating, Daniel Horning, Gene J. Brendan Balaskovitz, Pack 4048 Connor Willick, Pack 4144 Gilmore CLU, Thomas and Karen Baar, Timothy and Ruth Dillon, Mr. Lloyd Ney Jr., Lawrence J. Overbeek, CLU, Gregory William Dylan Hinds,Troop 1144 Farr, Anthony Lewis, Earland Kay DeWitt, Northwestern Mutual Financial Network (NAIFA-Holland), Mark Staat, M. Siess, N. Eagle Spirit: Christopher Herweyer, Troop 338 Thompson Bailey McGuinness, Pack 3390 Neal Hoskins, Pack 3065 DuaneWalerczyk from Gene Chamberlain, Dan and Jean Swindell, Anderson Daymon Worldwide LLC, CC Associates Inc., Howard Lakeshore: and Jeanne Seligmann, Joan and Dan Moser, Karen, Kirsten, Ty and Trent Carlson, Mr. and Mrs. John Pocius Jr., Mr. Paul Horgen David Puzycki, Pack 3006 Joshua Kleinheksel, Pack 3149 Jerome LaVene from Lyle, Edna and Agnes Cheyne, Denise Nathan Atherton, Pack 3098 Oughton

Thomas L. Proefrock from Mike Sulgrove, Roger and Dee Barber

Rodney Mark McDonald from Ed and Norrine Polkowski, Al and Liz Landheer, Loretta Homrich, Thomas Grooters, Kelly Campbell, Cathy Cohen, Steve Klackle, Craig VanderHoff, Shirley Barton

Joseph Daly from Mr. and Mrs. Stan Romanowski

John P.White, O.D. from Mike & Franice Sulgrove, Robert France/ France Scout Museum

Lorena C. Hughes from Mike & Francie Sulgrove 6 ~ MARCH/APRIL 2009 COUNCIL HAPPENINGS Scouter ATTENTION! SCOUTING MEMBERSHIP Lost & Found

Our Council growth compared to a year ago is: Our Lost and Found Box is ﬁ lling up again. We have lots of gloves February 28, 2008 February 28, 2009 and jackets which have been left behind after cold weather activi- Cub Scouts 7,758 7,504 ties. If you have lost something, call Boy Scouts 3,019 3,146 785-2662 and inquire with Paula. Varsity 129 94 We may have it. Anything left after Venturers 1,421 1,423 April 1, 2009 will be donated to charity. Sea Scouts 3 8 Lone Scouts 1 0 Total 12,331 12,175 FREE KLONDIKE SLED Learning for Life 3,008 3,0612 Registered Volunteers 4,630 4,562 Bob France of Nunica has a FREE Klondike Sled available. Interested Total 19,969 19,798 unit will need to pick the sled up as soon as possible. If you are interest- Thank you for your work in Scouting! Quality programs enable ed please call Bob at 616-842-2178. Scouting to meet our promise of Building Character and Strong Communities

SAVE THE DATE

June 23, 2009 at the Meadows 3rd Annual “City Pavement to Woodland Path- ways” Golf Outing In support of Inner City Scouting

Please reserve June 23, 2009 and join us at the Meadows. WANTED Call 1-888-BSA-GRFC for more information. Several volunteers who would like to help out at the Council offi ce once or twice a week on a regular ba sis. Benefi ts include a feeling of satisfaction, friend ly people, and free coffee. If you are interested, call Paula at 785-2662. Scouter TRAINING/ADVANCEMENT MARCH/APRIL 2009 ~ 7 NEWEST EAGLE SCOUTS LEADER TRAINING AWARDS The Gerald R. Ford Council is proud to recognize the following Boy Scouts who have attained the rank of Eagle Congratulations to the following lead- Scout. Their parents, leaders and fellow Boy Scouts ers who earned their training awards in should be proud of their accomplishments. They December and January are part of an elite group. Only about 4% of all Scouts achieve Eagle. We salute these Scouts, their Pere Marquette families, friends and leaders: David Dykema, Pack 4008, Cub Scout Den Leader Award Scout Troop Charter Partner Colleen Mars, Pack 4252, Webelos Den Bryce Comer 30 First Congregational Church Leader Award Chad Thornburg 60 Sheridan Lions Club Cameron Eidenier 290 St. Robert of Newminster Catholic Church Eagle Spirit Donald Eikenhout 406 Aldersgate United Methodist Church Deb Stachowiak, Pack 2228, Troop Nathan VanKammen 264 Rockford Lions Club 228, Commissioners Key & Arrowhead Matthew Johnson 74 LDS Honor Award Jacob Theisen 102 First United Methodist Church Sheila Zinck, Pack 3390, Webelos Den Jacob Sterling 102 First United Methodist Church Leader Award Joshua Couturier 1048 Lebanon Evangelical Lutheran Church Kathie Kalinowski, Pack 3283, Webe- Jacob VerSluys 280 Sparta Lions Club los Den Leader Award David Czinder 37 First United Presbyterian Church Mark Rouster 292 Grandville Rotary Club Lakeshore Bryan Beaverson 114 United Church of Big Rapids Rick Rios, Pack 3250, Webelos Den Luke Counterman 228 Bostwick Lake Congregational Church Leader Award Taylor Grissom 228 Bostwick Lake Congregational Church Terri Rios, Pack 3250, Cub Scouter Andrew Hayes 2228 Bostwick Lake Congregational Church Award Nathan Smith 230 Grand Rapids Home for Veterans Jill TenBrink, Pack 3048, Cub Scout Kevin Rubingh 230 Grand Rapids Home for Veterans Den Leader Award Kyle Schaab 1056 Our Lady of Grace Catholic Church Michael Carey 1153 LDS Hart Timothy Orzechowski 146 Hudsonville Lions WEBELOS LEADER John Zona 43 Kiwanis Club of Holland OUTDOOR & Peter Hanley 2048 Lebannon Evangelical Lutheran Church Adam Anderson 1127 Fruitport Lions Club INTRODUCTION TO Justin Hughes 1139 Fremont United Methodist Men OUTDOOR LEADER Kyle Pung 271 Mayfl ower Congregational Church SKILLS FOR BOY SCOUT Keith Smith 1053 Churchill PTO & VFW #3195 LEADERS Kirk Geldersma 328 Oakwood Christian Reformed Church Drew DeMull 354 Knights of Columbus #7487 This fantastic course gives Webelos Joshua Stuyvesant 354 Knights of Columbus #7487 and Boy Scout leaders an introduction John Betts 1 LDS Holland Ward to the necessary skills and information Dexter Weber 157 Calvary Reformed Church needed to run a fun, safe and success- Kevin Walenta 406 Aldersgate United Methodist Church ful outdoor program for your Scouts. Christopher Dexter 230 Grand Rapids Home For Veterans The course will be held April 17-19 at Blake Abraham 202 Caledonia United Methodist Church Gerber Scout Camp. Luke Kempisty 202 Caledonia United Methodist Church Nathaniel Zeitler 202 Caledonia United Methodist Church Brent Yonker 14 Spring Lake Lions Club Andrew Saelens 264 Rockford Lions Club 8 ~ MARCH/APRIL 2009 TRAINING/ADVANCEMENT Scouter TRAINERS DEVELOPMENT CUB SCOUT MONTHLY THEMES CONFERENCE March 2009 -When I Grow Up Our Trainers Development Conference is a must for Explore career possibilities of the all who train. Come learn how to be the best possible 21st century this month. Host a pack trainer! career fair, inviting several adults to share what they do for a living and Features: Top notch trainers; detailed review of basic how these career opportunities might training manuals; many new ideas and handouts for your change as you grow up and technology advances. Discover use; fellowship with new and old training friends. how having a positive attitude is essential in reaching career goals. Den meeting plans could include fi eld trips to learn All trainers, experienced or new, are encouraged to at- about different occupations of interest to the boys and tend to renew their certifi cation as a trainer! It is good playing games centered on different jobs. This would be a for two years. good month to work on any of the Cub Scout Academics and Sports belt loops and pins - let the boys vote on the Any volunteer in the Gerald R. Ford Council who has not one that fi ts best with what they want to be when they grow yet received an invitation and who is interested in attend- up. For those future astronauts this month is a perfect time ing this special training course for trainers should contact for a space derby! Jane at the DeVos Family Center for Scouting to receive an invitation. There will also be copies of the fl ier avail April 2009 - Jurassic Pack able at Roundtables.

Explore the land before time! Imagine living in a time when Please call Jane at the DeVos Family Center for Scouting dinosaurs roamed the Earth. What have paleontologists to reserve YOUR place for this great training experi- learned about the great beasts that roamed the Earth ence on March 21, 2009 at the DeVos Family Center for millions of years ago? Did any dinosaurs live where you Scouting! Watch for registration materials. If you have do now? Find out what they ate, where they lived, and how questions, please contact Chair Lee Hildebrand at leehil- they moved. What could we learn of these creatures that [email protected] or Jane at the DeVos Family Cen- lived so long ago? Make a model of a dinosaur or visit a ter for Scouting at 616-785-2662 or 1-888-272-4732. museum where dinosaur fossils can be seen. Make your own “dinosaur footprints” or “fossils” in plaster. Take a “dinosaur” scavenger hike by going on a hike and looking for things that might have been found during the Jurassic era. This would be a great time to work on the Geology belt loop and pin.

BOYS’ LIFE MONTHLY THEME

CUB SCOUT BOY SCOUT March Theme: When I Grow Up March -Cultural Diversity/Disability Awareness April Theme: Jurassic Pack April - Wildlife Management

WEBELOS March Activity Badge: Year 1 - Artist and Athlete Year 2 - Engineer April Activity Badge: Sportsman, Family Member & Handyman Scouter COUNCIL HAPPENINGS MARCH/APRIL 2009 ~ 9 SCOUTS…EARN YOUR WAY TO SCOUT CAMP FREE!!

“Mail’s Here” 2009 Spring Sale Facts

As presented at our 2009 camping Kickoff program this spring we will offer a Mail’s Here and Military Donation earn your way to camp fundraiser! For every “Mail’s Here” / Military Donation your Scout sells, they earn $10. Your Scout or Unit can use these funds for anything….like your CAMP FEES…already have camp paid for??? Use the extra money for camp supplies, camp gear, or anything to help your scouts!

Here’s how it works:

A Scout collects $45 for each “Mail’s Here”/ Military Donation delivered, your unit pays $35 and keeps the $10…..it’s that simple!

Unit RSVP Card Due by 5pm Friday, February 13 Kickoff Training for Leaders Monday, February 16 First Order Due Wednesday, March 4 First Order Pickup and Sale Begins Saturday, March 14 Final Orders Due Wednesday, April 15 Final Order Pickup and post dated check due Saturday, April 25 *All orders due by 5pm manual or 11:59pm email. Post dated check for May 11, 2009 is due when picking up ﬁ nal order.

Now the Fun! Stuff

• For every 100 “Mail’s Here” a Troop or Crew sells a LEADER GOES TO CAMP FREE!! (don’t forget the $1000 commission you’ve already earned!) • For every 50 “Mail’s Here” a Pack sells a LEADER GOES TO CAMP FREE!!(don’t forget the $500 commission you’ve already earned!) • • For every 10 “Mail’s Here” a Scout Sells they will be entered into a council drawing for a Free Trip to Camp. There will be four free trips to camp given away! (one free camp trip per district) But wait…for each 1000 entries in the drawing we will add another set of the prizes in the give- away!!! So for over 1000 entries that would be 8 Trips to Camp FREE!!!!!!!(two per district)

• Each Scout who participates will earn a cool patch!

A FREE TRIP TO CAMP IS AS EASY AS CHECKING THE MAIL!

CONTACT AARON GACH AT 1-888-BSA-GRFC TO GET STARTED! 10 ~ MARCH/APRIL 2009 COUNCIL HAPPENINGS Scouter

1. New animals for action archery (i.e.… deer, wood- Kiowa Campsite and Illinois Campsite) chuck) 40. 2 (two) 4ft. 4bulb fl uorescent lights for Ranger 2. 2 (two) new 20 gauge shotguns, semi-automatic Shop 3. 6 (six) new single shot .22 rifl es (Remington) 41. 200 amp breaker box for Wakefi eld Lodge, installed 4. 2 (two) new sailboats (Butterfl y) 42. Copy machine 5. New sails for sailboat 43. Staple guns for program areas 6. Boat docks 44. 6 wood octagon tables for Tipis 7. Rescue Boat motor 15hp 45. Finger tabs and arm guards for archery range 8. New oars for rowboats 46. Socket sets for air tools - 3/8”, ½”, ¾” , SAE/Metric 9. Fence for new bird watching area 47. Drill bit sets 10. Shovels, square and pointed ends 48. Fast grip pipe wrenches 11. Rakes, garden 49. Locking pliers set 12. Bow saws 50. 3 ton car jack 13. Axes, full and three quarter 51. Cargo straps 14. Shop vac, 10 gallon type, for both dining halls 52. 30 fi re extinguishers for camp sites 15. Air Conditioner, window 53. Stoves for Eagle Quest 16. Polywood fl oor for Wakefi eld Lodge (Ranger’s 54. New GPS unit house) 55. Black Pipe (gas line) for Camp Director House (3/4” 17. Central Air for Wakefi eld Lodge (Ranger’s house) and ½”) and assorted elbow, shutoff, reducers, and 18. Down draft furnace for Earl Johnson Lodge tees 19. 4 (Four) garden wagons, Cub Camp size 56. Large pieces of leather for Longhouse Area 20. New roofs throughout upper Cub Village (See 57. Books for Ecology program area Ranger for shingle types) 58. New or good used washing machine for Health 21. New computers or 3-5 good, used ones for New Lodge Technology Center 59. Car hoist for the shop 22. New propane furnaces for Staff Shower House and 60. New Mig Welder Camp Director’s House 61. New battery chargers for shop and waterfront 23. Vent fans 62. 3 (three) new electric trolling motors for waterfront 24. New batteries for Dewalt Tools 63. 20 (twenty) new life jackets 25. New socket set, deep wells and regular - ¼”, ½”, ¾” 64. 3 2(Two) new canoes (one received) metric and ASE 65. New electric planer for shop 26. Stihl chain saw 66. 24 new Boy Scout tents 27. Stihl leaf blower 67. New Boy Scout Dining Hall! 28. Lawn mowers 29. Front end loader with back hoe 30. White paint 31. 251 Brown stain 32. New roof for Evans Dining Hall 33. 2 (two) powerfl ushing toilets, Earl Johnson Lodge, Handicap type 34. 60 new metal garbage cans for camp sites 35. Big plastic totes for all program areas 36. Garage Door opener at Ranger Shop 37. 5 dozen light bulbs, screw in, fl uorescent type 38. Screws and nails, different sizes, for Ranger Shop 39. Bulletin Boards for Camp sites (built like the one in Scouter FUNDRAISING MARCH/APRIL 2009 ~ 11 FISCAL POLICIES AND PROCEDURES FOR BSA UNITS Frequently Asked Questions- PART 2

Can our pack or troop be covered under the BSA’s group exemption? No. The IRS only allows local councils (and council trust funds) to be included under the BSA group exemption. Packs, troops, and other Scout units cannot be included under the BSA group exemption because they “belong” to their chartering organization. (Note: tax issues for Girl Scout troops are handled differently by the IRS because of how their cookie sales are structured).

A volunteer suggested that our unit apply for its own tax-exempt status. Can we? Units should not incorporate or apply for their own tax-exempt status. For one thing, units are not legal entities. Even if they were, this is an expensive and time-consuming process. But units are only permitted to raise funds through ap- proved unit money-earning projects. Units could lose their charter if they tried to get their own tax-exempt status and solicit tax deductible gifts.

We can’t solicit gifts for our unit? No. Simply put, units are not permitted to solicit any gifts. Both the Charter and Bylaws and the Rules and Regulations of the BSA make this very clear – only local councils may solicit individuals, corporations, United Ways, or founda- tions for gifts in support of Scouting. Units, unit leaders, and youth members may not solicit gifts in the name of Scout- ing or in support of unit needs and activities (except in unusual circumstances where the unit has received permission to do so from the local council). Units are also prohibited from soliciting gifts on their Websites.

Does that mean people can’t make gifts to our troop? Units are not supposed to solicit gifts, but they can receive gifts. Anyone can contribute to a pack, troop, or crew – and many donors don’t need or care about charitable deductions. Obviously, deﬁ ning a “solicited gift” is not always easy. But we rely on our unit leaders to set good examples and honor the intent and spirit of these important guidelines. We know it’s hard to stop people from being generous, especially towards Scouting.

Can gifts go to the local council to beneﬁ t our unit, then “pass through” the council to us? No – your unit “belongs” to your chartering organization, not to your local council. IRS guidelines prohibit any charity from accepting gifts that are “passed through” to a person or unrelated entity.

Questions? Need more information? Please contact Suzie Blake at the DeVos Family Center for Scouting at 616-785- 2662, ext. 204. Thank you for all you do for Scouting and the youth in your community.

RISK MANAGEMENT NEWS

As you carry out your winter activities have you planned for safety? Each campout should be carefully planned, and a copy of your camping location and itinerary should be left with at least two unit committee members. In todays society a cell phone should be carried by unit leaders; your cell number should be included with your itinerary.

Practice the buddy system during all activitiesswimming at your local pool,hiking,sledding,ice ﬁ shing, any activity.

Remember each Scouting activity requires two deep leadership. More adults should always be encouraged. Ger- ber Scout Camp is a excellent facility for winter camping. Our council is blessed with one of the state’s best Scout camps. I encourage you to use it in all seasons. Each season will offer a unique camping experience. Keep the outing in scouting.

Chuck Whitman Chairman Council Risk Management Committee 12 ~ MARCH/APRIL 2009 COUNCIL HAPPENINGS Scouter Scouting for Food

This annual good turn is a program to help make a huge impact on all of our local community food banks. Scouting for food is a program we offer every year because there is a constant need in the communities where you live. We have historically collected sixty to seventy ﬁ ve thousand food items. This is good, but we can do better, and your communities need you to do better. Please plan on picking up your food bags at the beginning of March or at the March Roundtable. We will be setting bags out from March 19-22 and picking them up March 28. Once you have collected your items you will deliver them to your food banks. While doing so please have some fun with it. Take pictures, stack you food items up in a fun way and photograph it. Most importantly, please submit a report of your participation online at goodturnforamerica.org. A sheet accompany- ing your bags will explain. Turn in this information, and we will have special Scouting for Food patches for your unit. We will have your patches at the May Round- table. If you have questions please contact your District activities chair, program chair or your District Executive..

Make sure your unit RSVP’s using our Scouting for Food form, which is also available on line.

GOOD TURN FOR AMERICA- HOW YOUR SERVICE HOURS HELP SUPPORT SCOUTING

When your unit does a community service project in the year, your Scouts and leaders are out there working hard and when it’s all done you go home feeling great about helping someone else. That’s the Scouting way, to be of service to others, but in these difﬁ cult economic times this is what also makes the Boy Scouts of America stand out to our support ers.

I’m often asked “How does Scouting help our community?” The answer is both simple and complex. We give back by doing community service but how and what speciﬁ cally? I can tell each county how many hours were completed in Eagle projects and how much food was collected in our “Scouting for Food” reports but I can’t tell them about ALL the other great service our Scouts provide because it’s never been asked for, until now…..

EVERY UNIT needs to go to www.goodturnforamerica.org and start logging in your unit’s community service projects. You will need to get your Unit’s ID # which can be obtained from the notebook your unit received at the August 2008 Program Kick off or by calling 1-888-BSA-GRFC. On the home page of Good Turn for America go to SUPPORT and DATA COLLECTION HELP; print the brochure which will walk you through how to input your projects. One person in your unit should be responsible for keeping track of service hours and doing the data entry.

Your unit can also get recognition for Good Turn for America projects such as ribbons, patches and plaques but you need to be using the website to get credit.

When donors hear Scouts provide, say for example, 5,000 hours of service to their community at an average cost of $7.00 per hour, that’s $35,000 of labor that was given by Scouts to that community at no cost! Who would not want to support this valuable community resource that is also building tomorrows leaders? It’s a win-win situation!

For more help with Good Turn for America and logging in your service projects call Suzie Blake at 1-888 BSA-GRFC or email at [email protected]. Scouter COUNCIL HAPPENINGS MARCH/APRIL 2009 ~ 13 14 ~ MARCH/APRIL 2009 Scouter THE 2009 BUILDING CHARACTER CELEBRATION TUESDAY MARCH 31, 2009 GRAND RAPIDS’ DEVOS PLACE, STEELCASE BALLROOM

Dinner Check-in 5:00-6:00 PM – Program only Check in 6:30-6:45PM

Our Celebration Features…..

• Keynote Address by the Chief Scout Executive of the Boy Scouts of America, Eagle Scout Robert Mazzuca • Exciting Live Program • Eagle Scout of the Year Award • Have your photo with the Chief! • Interesting Scouting Displays

Special Scout Pricing…. Program Ticket (includes program and photo with the Chief!)…….……....$10

Program Ticket for your entire Unit! (includes program admission and photo of your unit with the Chief) ……………………………………………….$250

Dinner & Program Ticket, includes dinner (by the Amway Grand Plaza Hotel) with ﬂ oor seating and Pro gram Admission) ……………………….....……$50 Scouter MARCH/APRIL 2009 ~ 15 Life to Eagle Scout Workshop Tuesday March 31, 2009 DeVos Place Riverview Conference Room GrandRapids,MI 5:30-7:00PM

Who Should Be There???

• Star Scouts • Life Scouts • Scout Parents • Advisors • Troop Committee Members • Scoutmasters and Assistants • Merit Badge Counselors • District Advancement and Eagle Board of Review Teams

Come learn, as our Council Advancement Team presents a session on everything you need to know to have a smooth transition from Life Scout to EAGLE SCOUT!! Information will be presented for everyone above to learn about…..

The Steps from Life to Eagle--Board of Review--Who does what?? Eagle Scout Projects--Meet the advancement team ALL YOUR Individual QUESTIONS!

Our Workshop is FREE, and we invite you to stay for our Annual Building Character Cel- ebration featuring Chief Scout Executive of the Boy Scouts of America, Eagle Scout Robert Mazzuca, and honoring our 2008 Class of Eagle Scouts for just $10 dollars, or the full dinner & program is $50, best yet you can see where you will be in a years time!

Please call Diana at 1-616-785-2662 if you have questions or would like to attend 16 ~ MARCH/APRIL 2009 COUNCIL HAPPENINGS Scouter

LINDA SCHMOLDT

We would like to wish Linda Schmoldt best wishes on her recent retirement. Linda retired on February 27th after 19 plus years of outstanding service to the youth and volunteers of our Council. Linda has been our answer lady for all program, camp, and Eagle Scout questions. Linda and her husband John will now enjoy traveling and spending time with their Grandchildren. Linda will surely be missed.

Diana Venema is now our new Program Secretary, so you can call her with all your program, camp or Eagle Scout questions. Theresa Kary has taken Diana’s Customer Service position.

Dear Friends,

I want to thank all of you for keeping Ed in your thoughts and prayers. He is home and doing well and getting stronger every day. He won’t be at camp but Ed said to tell everyone “Hi” Thank you again Mona Bennett Maury Clancy American Indian Campership

The Gerald R. Ford Council is proud to extend a special Scout Summer Campership opportunity for American In- dian Scouts. If you have an American Indian Scout in your unit who plans to attend one of the Gerald R. Ford Coun- cils’ Summer Camps and would like to be considered for a campership from this special National Order of the Ar- row coordinated campership fund, please contact Aaron Gach, Council Program Director, at 1-888-BSA-GRFC by APRIL 15th, 2009. Scouter SILVER BEAVER MARCH/APRIL 2009 ~ 17

*SILVER BEAVER NOMINATION WORKSHEET*

BOY SCOUTS OF AMERICA GERALD R. FORD COUNCIL 3213 WALKER AVE. NW GRAND RAPIDS, MI 49544-9775 Please return to the DeVos Family Center for Scouting Name ______Address ______Occupation ______The nominee is registered in Scouting as ______and holds a membership certiﬁ cate expiring ______20 ____. (If Scouter is currently unit-connected, give unit number ______.)

RECORD UPON WHICH THIS NOMINATION IS BASED A. RECORD OF ADULT SERVICE IN THE BOY SCOUTS OF AMERICA: From: To: Position: Unit/District/Council

1. ______2. ______3. ______4. ______5. ______6. ______

B. SPECIAL SCOUTING RECOGNITIONS RECEIVED: (Indicate the year received) AWARD/RECOGNITION DATE 1. ______2. ______3. ______4. ______5. ______6. ______ADDITIONAL SHEETS MAY BE ADDED IF NECESSARY 18 ~ MARCH/APRIL 2009 SILVER BEAVER Scouter

C. NOMINEES STANDING IN THE COMMUNITY/ACTIVITIES OUTSIDE OF SCOUTING: 1. BUSINESS/PROFESSIONAL: ______

______

2. CIVIC: ______

______

3. RELIGIOUS: ______

______

4. EDUCATIONAL: ______

______

5. FRATERNAL: ______

______

6. VETERAN: ______

7. OTHER: ______

D. NOTEWORTHY SERVICE OF EXCEPTIONAL CHARACTER TO YOUTH WITHIN COUNCIL JURISDICTION. ______

______

ADDITIONAL SHEETS MAY BE ADDED IF NECESSARY

************************************************************************************ * YOUR NOMINATION SHOULD BE CONFIDENTIAL - PLEASE DO NOT ADVISE THE CANDIDATE OF YOUR NOMINATION*

NOMINATED BY: ______DATE:______

SCOUTING POSITION: ______

TELEPHONE NUMBER: HOME: ______BUSINESS: ______Scouter COUNCIL HAPPENINGS MARCH/APRIL 2009 ~ 19

RELIGIOUS AWARDS

God and Me Grades 1-2-3, Ages 6-8 Colton Churches, Devin Cupp, Jayme, Schlanderer, Caleb Swain, Pack 3180 chartered by Alto Lions Club, Alto, MI P.R.A.Y. Announces New RECOGNITION FOR Raven and Brayden Colthurst, Pack 3065 chartered by Middleville Lions “FOUR STAR Club, Middleville, MI RECIPIENTS” God and Family P.R.A.Y. has announced a new rec- Grades 4-5, Ages 9-10 ognition for FOUR STAR RECIPI- Samuel Nimphie, Pack 3301 chartered by Breton Downs Parents for Scout- ENTS. A four-star recipient is some- ing, Grand Rapids, MI one who has earned all four levels of James Mulkern, Ryan O’Connor, Ian Purcell, Aaron Schuitema, Andrew the God and Country series. Four-star Twiford, and Jacob Van Ess, Pack 3341 chartered by Endeavor Elementary recipients will receive a certiﬁ cate School PTC, Kentwood, MI and letter of congratulations from P.R.A.Y. A special pin (pictured above) is available at additional cost. God and Life Grades 9-12, Ages 14-20 Candidates must submit a special ap- Matthew Bourjaily, Troop 209 chartered by St. Robert of Newminster plication form to P.R.A.Y. in order to Catholic Church, Ada, MI be conﬁ rmed as “Four Star Recipi Andrew Hulsman, Jeffery and Christopher Walto, Troop 33 chartered by ents.” This application form is avail- Hamilton Lions Club, Hamilton, MI able online at http://www.praypub. org/fourstar.htm. It must be printed out and then mailed to P.R.A.Y. at t. George Award 8520 Mackenzie Road, Ste. 3, St. Adult Recognition Louis, MO 63123. Max Gage, Grand Rapids, MI For more information, please contact God & Country Four Star Recipient P.R.A.Y. at 1-800-933-7729. P.R.A.Y. Matthew Bourjaily, Troop 209 chartered by St. Robert of Newminster 8520 Mackenzie Road, Suite 3, St. Catholic Church, Ada, MI Louis, MO 63123-3413. 1-800-933- 7729 / www.praypub.org 20 ~ MARCH/APRIL 2009 Scouter

HONORING CATHOLIC MEMBERS OF THE DIOCESE OF GRAND RAPIDS AND BOY SCOUTS OFAMERICA-GERALD R. FORD COUNCIL

Throughout the Diocese of Grand Rapids and the Gerald R. Ford Council, boys and girls ﬂ ocked to the ﬁ rst diocesan Scout Recognition Mass hosted by the Grand Rapids Catholic Committee on Scouting on Sunday, February 15 at Saint Robert’s of Newminster to celebrate Mass and to be honored for earning their religious emblems, badges and patches. The committee was also pleased to honor the adult volunteers for their support of Scouting in the diocese and for their devotion to strengthening the moral character and virtue of youth today through youth ministry.

Present among the crowd of 140 were also the Fourth Degree Knights of Columbus, Council #8117; Serra Club of Grand Rapids President, Pam McKenzie; Patrick Byars of Troop 146 and Charles Reader, Troop 1190, recipients of the St. George Trek scholarships; Father Lou Stasker of St. Robert of Newminster and of St. Anthony of Padua, Dea- con Leo Ferguson, serving as celebrants.

The Cub Scout religious emblems are the Light of Christ and the Parvuli Dei (Children of God), with the Ad Altare Dei (To the Altar of God) and the Pope Pius XII are reserved for Boy Scouts and Venturers. A brief visit to the Grand Rapids Catholic Committtee’s website at www.grccscouting.org will allow access to information on Catholic Scout- ing religious emblems and patches, activities, events, and trainings. There are also unit awards available such as the National Catholic Quality Unit Award, Pope Paul VI, Gold Medallion and Golden Bow. Cub Scout Pack 3283 of As- sumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary and Boy Scout Troop 31 of St. Mary both attained the Pope Paul VI for 2008, an award that is very similar to the Quality Unit Award, offered by Boy Scouts of America. Led by Cubmaster, Pete Luczyk and Committee Chair, Laurie Luczyk, Cub Scout Pack 3283 further excelled by qualifying as the regional ﬁ nalist of the Gold Medallion, according to the National Catholic Committee on Scouting. The Scouts earn the Catholic religious emblems, medals and patches, however, all adult recognition awards are by nomination. Awarded to adults in recognition of outstanding contributions to the spiritual development of Catholic youth and for their active participation in the Scouting program, the Bronze Pelican Award, a diocesan recognition, was presented to Aaron Gach, Ron Gach, Scott Harvey, Mark Lackowski, the Honorable Judge Dennis Leiber, Mark Mann, Janette Maring and Larry Wilson. On behalf of the National Catholic Committee on Scouting and the Roman Catholic Diocese of Grand Rapids, the St. George Emblem was awarded to Grand Rapids Catholic Committtee on Scouting Chairman, Tom Magniﬁ co for his hard work and devotion to the Scouting program. Deacon Leo Ferguson, Grand Rapids Catholic Committee on Scouting Training Chairman, was also recognized and honored for his 50-years of service to Boy Scouts of America.

Congratulations to the following award recipients for 2008: Nathan Blatten, Pack 3106 THE LIGHT OF CHRIST CUB SCOUT AWARD Ryan Brown, Pack 3208 Ian Chesla, Pack 3325 David Flessner, Pack 3356 Austin Eustice, Pack 3250 Nathan Galen, Pack 3325 Jacob Gutowski, Pack 3188 Austin Heitzman, Pack 3325 Tyler Palazzolo, Pack 3250 Danny Herweyer, Pack 3208 David Richardson, Pack 3048 Thom Hourani Jr., Pack 3325 Michael Skrocki, Pack 3250 Michael Kersjes, Pack 3208 Baden Wackerle, Pack 3359 Sean Kosnik, Pack 3208 Joshua Wilson, Pack 3359 William Kral Jr., Pack 3208 Nicholas Lenz, Pack 3208 THE PARVULI DEI CUB SCOUT AWARD Joshua Lyster, Pack 3325 Isaac Allen, Pack 3325 Thomas Andrew, Pack 3043 Joshua Appel, Pack 3208 Bryan Balkeman, Pack 3114 Benjamin Beekman, Pack 3208 Scouter GERBER SCOUT CAMP MARCH/APRIL 2009 ~ 21 GERBER SCOUT CAMP 2009

Welcome back campﬁ res, Order of the Arrow call out ceremonies, closing campﬁ res and tons of program in between.… that is what Gerber Scout Camp is all about. We have merit badges and your Scouts can earn them, but there is much more to Scout Camp than those. You spend enough time in school the other nine months of the year, so why not come out and play? Scout camp is for making friends, learning something new, helping another Scout learn a skill, and having fun. We hope this is the philosophy you are taking. If you are, then you are almost guaranteed to have an absolutely great time. The other thing that will ensure your success and a great summer camp experience is being prepared.

Please make sure that you have a plan for when you get to camp. Please make sure you and your Scouts know the activities available when you get to camp. Your leaders need to know the activities available to them as well. Scout camp is not just for the Scouts. There are tons of activities for you adults to participate in as well. If you do not know what they are, and are not prepared to participate then you are going to always be behind the rest of the Troops.

Your next question might be, how do I get prepared for Scout Camp? There are multiple answers, and here are just a few. 1. Read and understand the program and leader guide book. This tool is what the staff uses to plan the program in the off season. 2. Have camp meetings for your Scouts and parents. Yes, that’s right, have two, three, or four camp meetings before you go. The more your Scouts and parents know about camp, the better time they will have. 3. Set expectations for your troop. Have a goal. Maybe your goal is to participate in every evening program, or maybe your goal is to have all your Scouts make it to each program area at least once. Set a goal that is right for you. 4. Have fun and keep an open mind. Remember, you are there to have a good time and learn some new skills. If you keep that in the back of your mind, then when something gets changed just look around…..if your Scouts are having fun then don’t sweat it. If you need more information on the programs, daily schedules, costs, etc. please log onto www.bsagrfc.org and click on the camping programs section of the Council web page. Troops signed up for Camp as of 3/5/2009 Week 1 Week 2 Week 3 Week 4 Week 5 Week 6 Week 7 Week 8 14 35 31 39 50 21 1 110 37 43 40 85 57 29 3 292 71 90 74 93 98 33 45 300 91 97 111 96 120 95 114 251 OC 105 108 123 219 130 271 157 810 OC 165 146 200 246 147 312 290 373 OC 222 264 209 334 197 1006 311 225 331 275 344 202 1041 314 228 345 282 350 223 1051 318 315 704 304 1023 281 1145 1008 1129 1065 316 1053 1048 1155 1040 1133 1151 338 1056 1127 253 OC 1144 1139 541 OC 354 242 OC 13 OC 416 OC 1153 125OC 603 OC 367 294 OC 180 OC 442 OC 1634 OC 46 OC 373 346 OC 317 OC 80 OC 222 OC 623 OC 1199 637 OC 40 OC 911 OC 4134 OC 96 OC 337 OC 45 OC 366 OC 547 OC 919OC 923 OC 926 OC 2977 OC Closed Closed Closed Closed Closed Closed Closed 22 ~ MARCH/APRIL 2009 CUB SCOUT & WEBELOS ADVENTURELAND Scouter

CUB SCOUT AND WEBELOS ADVENTURELAND 2009

As we sit and watch the snow fall, it is hard to believe that in just three months we will be throwing sponges, squirt- ing squirt guns, singing songs, sleeping in mosquito-free tents, and hanging with some crazy super den chiefs. Yes, that is right, Cub Scout and Webelos Adventureland is just around the corner. Our programs are set, and so is the best staff in the world. It is your job to get signed up and prepared for a super fantastic time. The packs and Scouts who have the best time are those who understand what camp is about and are prepared for it. If you have never been to camp it is hard to describe the pace of the program in which you are participating. You and your son will literally be on the move from sun up to sun down. We work very hard to pack in as much program as possible while you are in camp. We make no apologies for that. You pay for it, we are going to provide it. One way to be familiar with our program is to read and understand the leaders guidebook. This is available at www.bsagrfc.org, then click on the camping icon. Each Cub Scout pack also was given one at the camp kickoff back in November of ‘08. The key to your success and fun is to keep an open mind, think like a ten year old, and never be afraid to look and act gooﬁ er than your Scouts.

Packs signed up for Cub Scout Adventureland as of 3/5/2009

Session 1 Session 2 Session 3 Session 4 Session 5 Session 6 7/26/09 7/28/09 7/30/09 8/2/09 8/4/09 8/6/09 3045 3024 3039 3033 3280 3005 3095 3098 3048 3098 3057 3201 3265 3071 3201 3110 3209 4032 3098 3359 3224 3228 3149 4056 3250 3175 3634 3188 4009 3222 3391 4048 4053

Packs signed up for Webelos Adventureland as of 3/5/2009

Session 1 Session 2 Session 3 Session 4 Session 5 Session 6 Session 7 Session 8 Session 9 6/21/09 6/24/09 3/28/09 7/1/09 7/5/09 7/8/09 7/12/09 7/15/09 7/19/09 3209 3005 3045 3048 3048 3033 3039 3110 3226 3024 3280 3057 3090 3175 3188 3634 3095 3201 3098 3250 3149 3222 3228 3311 3283 3239 3265 3391 3364 3356 4008 4032 4023 4048 4040 4252 4056 Scouter THE BACKPACK MARCH/APRIL 2009 ~ 23 SCOUT SHOP HOURS ATTENTION ALL YOU WOOD BADGE MONDAY 9:00am to 7:00pm COLLECTORS!!!! TUESDAY through FRIDAY 9:00am to 6:00pm SATURDAY 10:00am to 2:00pm We now carry 8 of the most popular patrol emblems for your Wood Badge group. Holiday Hours Scout Shop hours for Good Friday, April 10, 2009 are as Unique to Scouts is the patrol method; a group normal. 9:00am-6:00pm. of 6 to 8 participants who elect their own leader and plan and carry out their own activities. The 8 OUR STAFF: most popular patrols are Antelope, Bear, Beaver, Rich Jackson, Territorial Manager Buffalo, Bobwhite, Eagle, Fox and Owl. A busy (Based in Detroit, MI) course schedule creates dedication and a spirit of New Person on Board: Philip Wendt will be joining fellowship in most participants. Wood Badge is us as Senior Store Manager in Charge of all Scout used throughout the Scouting world. It is a great Shops in Michigan. He will be based in Detroit. force for world brotherhood and emphasizing the international aspects of the movement. Joanne Diaz Pam Smith Keith DeVriendt Niome Lopez BSA ACTION SHIRTS Tyler Baranoski When the weather starts getting warmer you should really try out our BSAAction Shirts. They are available in youth Direct Fax Number: (616) 988-0187 and adult sizes with either short or long sleeves. Direct Phone Number (616) 988-0183 E- Mail Address: [email protected] • Accessory pocket behind left chest pocket. • Button down collar. On Line Catalog: www.Scoutstuff.org • Side mesh ﬂ ow through ventilation system. • Lightweight, quick drying easy-care fabric. • Patch pockets on chest with hook and loop closure. • Roll-up sleeve tabs with button closure (long sleeve shirt only) IMPORTANT REMINDER • Ultraviolet Protection Factor (UPF) 30+

The Scout Shop Hours for Saturday are 10:00 am to Short sleeve youth-$19.99 2:00 pm. Doors close at 2:00 pm sharp.. Please try to Short sleeve adult $26.49-2X-$29.99 give yourself plenty of time to shop and make purchases Long sleeve youth-$24.49 before closing. Long sleeve adult $29.49-2X-$32.49 24 ~ MARCH/APRIL 2009 THE BACKPACK Scouter PINEWOOD DERBY-RAINGUTTER DEN MEETINGS INA BOX THEMES REGATTA-SPACE DERBY March -- When I Grow Up -Make sure you look at our From the simplest ribbon to a nice plaque that you can generic patches for an extra patch in case you go on a get engraved yourself, we have whatever you may need to visit to someplace. recognize you Cub Scouts after participating in any race. April -- Jurassic Pack - For an extra craft we have a 3-D Patches wood puzzle of a dinosaur - item #17188-$3.99. Pinewood Derby-Pit Crew-item #80233 Pinewood Derby-Generic-item #80232 Raingutter Regatta-item #80240 Space Derby-item #80237 The Scout Shop Survey will expire on March 31, These are all priced at $1.19 2009. If you receive a survey receipt you can go on line and ﬁ ll out the survey and it will give you a Ribbons password when you are done. Write the password C/S I Did My Best-10pk-item #17803-$4.69 on the bottom of your receipt and bring it in. You Pinewood Derby Race Ofﬁ cial10pkitem #17375$4.49 will get 15% off any paper banquet supplies. This Pinewood Derby Participant-10pk-item #17377-$4.49 discount will help if you’re in need of any Eagle C/S I’m A Winner-10pk-item #17804-$4.69 banquet supplies, or any Blue and Gold banquets. C/S 1st, 2nd, and 3rd Place, 5 of each-15pk-item #17801- $4.69 Raingutter Regatta-10pk-item #17378-$4.49 Space Derby-10pk-item #17379-$4.49

Medals Pinewood Derby, Red-item #17382, White-item #17383, Blue-item #17381 Raingutter Regatta, Red-item #17385, White-item #17386, Blue-item #17384 Space Derby, Red-item #17388, White-item #17389, Blue-item #17387 These are all priced at $2.89 each. NEW ITEMS IN THE SCOUT SHOP

Trophies We have some more really cool t-shirts for all the scouts Pinewood Derby-item #7580 in your family. For the Cub Scouts of the family, we have Raingutter Regatta-item #7581 the new Breaking Free Tee, small–large-only $9.99. There Space Derby-item #7582 is a new hoodie sweatshirt, small-large only $29.99; these These are all priced at $16.49 are perfect to throw on during those chilly mornings while camping out. Plaques Pinewood Derby-item #7590 A good Scout Activity shirt is the new Do a Good Turn tee Raingutter Regatta-item #7591 in adult sizes small-XL for only $9.99. If you like the dis- Space Derby-item #7592 tressed look in your tee’s try the new 1910 distressed Tee These are all priced at $18.99 in adult sizes small-XL for $21.99 or a 2-3X for $23.99. We can’t forget about the new Boy Scout Handbook Tee, small-XL $19.99 or a 2X-3X for $21.99.

The new 2009 generic patches are in and we have just the right patches for all kinds of occasions or activities. To name a few, we have ones for parades, ﬁ shing, reading, community service, cake decorating and sports. Scouter FIVE RIVERS DISTRICT NEWS MARCH/APRIL 2009 ~ 25 NEW DISTRICT EXECUTIVE HIRED

FIVE RIVERS The Gerald R. Ford Council of the Boy Scouts of America is pleased to announce the hiring of Cliff Chamberlain as the Serving Montcalm, Mecosta, Ionia Counties and next District Executive for the Five Rivers District. Cliff lives the Kent County Communities of Lowell, Sparta, in the Rockford area. He knows that Tom Mills has left some Kent City and Cedar Springs big shoes to be fi lled, however, with 12 years of Scouter ex District Chair - Bob Christensen - 616-754-0161 perience he is confi dent that he is up to the task. He will be Commissioner - Vickie Krantz- 616-984-5204 contacting each unit soon, but if you ever wish to reach him District Executive, Cliff Chamberlain-1-888- please contact Cliff Chamberlain at cliff.chamberlain@scout- 272-4732x214 ing.org or 888.272.4732 x214. ~~~~ March 3 District Committee Meeting, Greenville LDS Meetinghouse, 7:00 pm 5 District Commissioner Meeting, Greenville LDS Meetinghouse, 7:00 pm 12 New Leader Essential Training, Greenville LDS Meetinghouse, 7:00 pm 12 Cub Scout/Boy Scout/Venturing Leader FIVE RIVERS SCOUTING FOR FOOD Roundtable, Greenville LDS Meetinghouse, 7:00 pm MARCH 21-28, 2009 12 OA Chapter Meeting, Greenville LDS Meet- inghouse, 7:00 pm It’s not too late! Sign-ups were at the February Roundtables 14 Boy Scout Leader Specifi c Training, Green but if you call soon, your unit can still have the privilege of ville LDS Meetinghouse, 8:30 am serving others by collecting food for local food pantries. Col- 14 Cub Scout Pinewood Derby, Morley-Stan- lection bags will be available at the March Roundtable, along wood Middle School, 9:00 am with tally sheets to detail who, and how much was, collected. Times are tough, but most of us know someone who is worse- off than we are. PLEASE…DO YOUR BEST!! Call Cliff April Chamberlain at 888.272.4732 x214 to sign up. 2 District Commissioner Meeting, Greenville LDS Meetinghouse, 7:00 pm 7 District Committee Meeting, Greenville LDS FIVE RIVERS PINEWOOD DERBY Meetinghouse, 7:00 pm VROOM!!... VROOM!!... 9 New Leader Essential Training, Greenville LDS Meetinghouse, 7:00 pm Who will win the District Awards at this year’s Pinewood Der- 9 Cub Scout/Boy Scout/Venturing Leader by? This exciting event is scheduled for Saturday, March 14, Roundtable, Greenville LDS Meetinghouse, 2009 at the Morley-Stanwood Middle School. Registration 7:00 pm begins at 9:00 AM with races starting at 9:30 AM. Anyone 9 OA Chapter Meeting, Greenville LDS Meet- who places in the top 3 within their pack or den is encouraged inghouse, 7:00 pm to bring their car and race. There will be patches and pack rib- 17-19 Introduction to Outdoor Leader Skills Train- bons. Trophies will be given for the top 3 fi nishers in the Five ing, Gerber Scout Camp Rivers District overall, AND, the top 3 Tigers, Wolves, Bears, 25 Youth Leadership Orientation, DeVos Family and Webelos. There will also be prizes for the Most Origi- Center for Scouting, 9:00 am nal, Best Scout Theme, and Best in Show. WAIT…THERE’S MORE…There will be two additional races. A “Free-Camp Challenge” race and a “Truck Race.” Please contact Doug Hopkins at [email protected] or 616.813.7400, or Cliff Chamberlain at [email protected] or 888.272.4732 x214. 26 ~ MARCH/APRIL 2009 FIVE RIVERS DISTRICT NEWS Scouter DISTRICT AWARDS NOMINATIONS AND YOUTH LEADERSHIP CELEBRATION ANNUAL MEETING ORIENTATION

May 14, 2009, is the date for the Please send all nominations for the This one-day workshop at the DeVos Five Rivers District Annual Awards Five Rivers District Chair and Mem- Family Center for Scouting, 9:00 am Celebration. This year’s event will bers-at-Large to the DeVos Fam- on April 25, 2009, is not only for be held at the Greenville LDS Meet- ily Center for Scouting, 3213 Walker Adult Boy Scout Leaders, but it is inghouse. Reservation forms are out, Ave. NW, Grand Rapids, MI 49544. also for the Troop’s Youth Leaders. and will be available at the Round- Please make sure your nominations Some troops still operate under the tables. Please take the time to nomi- are labeled “FIVE RIVERS DIS- “father knows best” principal where nate those who you believe should be TRICT NOMINATING COMMIT- the Scoutmaster has control of, and recognized. Along with the District TEE.” The District Annual Meeting all of the responsibility for, troop ac- Award of Merit, we will also present will be held on May 5, 2009 at 7:00 tivities. The most successful troops the Old Crab Patrol Award for long pm at the Greenville LDS Meeting- today…the troops that are generating tenure and commitment to scout- house, 10700 Carson City Road (M- the real leaders of tomorrow…are ad- ing, and the Forgotten Spouse Award 57 W). Voting members include all hering to a more “boy-led” approach for…well…you understand. Attend District Members-at-Large, Char- to scouting. This training can be very roundtable or contact Cliff Chamber- tered Organization Representatives, helpful for both types of troops. If lain at cliff.chamberlain@scouting. and all Council Board Members re- you wish to change to being more org or 888.272.4732 x214 to reserve siding in the Five Rivers District. “boy-led”, this training can help you your spot. All are invited, encouraged, and re- get started. If you have an established quested to attend. There will be a “boy-led” troop, this training can help SPRING CAMPOREE special orientation session for Char- you train your new leaders and may tered Organization Representatives. answer questions or solve problems This year’s Spring Camporee will Please contact Cliff Chamberlain at you have encountered. Last year’s be May 1-3, 2009, and the theme [email protected] or attendees claim that this orientation is: “1800’s Living.” Activities will 888.272.4732 x214 with any ques- program is one of the best they have include pioneering, blacksmithing, tions. attended. See the calendar and check “Dutch-oven” cooking, etc… Don’t it out. For more information please miss it! We’ll be at the Central Mich- contact Steve Rowe at 616.676.3290. igan Sportsman’s Club, which is lo- cated on County Road 522, Stanton, MI 48888 (4 miles East of Stanton.) Signups will be at the Roundtables. Contact Kevin Cook at 616.984.2560 or Roger Christensen at 616.754.9738 with questions. SEE YOU AT THE ROUNDTABLE

FIVE RIVERS SPRING ROUND-UP Separate Roundtable sessions are held for the leaders of Cub Scouts, Boy Scouts, and Venturers. Round- It’s time again for the Cub Scout Spring Round-Up! Statistics tables allow for the centralized distribution of materi- show that the younger a youth is when they join us in Scout- als, but more importantly these meetings provide an ing, the longer that youth will remain in scouting. Cub Scouts excellent opportunity to get your questions answered are the lifeblood of the scouting program, and Cub Scouting by others who are doing the same things you do, and feeds directly into the Boy Scouting and Venturing programs. they have questions of their own that you might be All Cub Scout Packs will be invited to conduct a Round-Up in able to answer for them. Isn’t that part of what scout- the months of March & April. The membership team will be ing is all about?...helping each other? Roundtables contacting each unit for dates and times. Please contact Gary are held the second Thursday of each month at the Liu at [email protected] or 616.292.6039 with any ques- Greenville LDS Meetinghouse at 7:00 pm. Please… tions. come when you can. Scouter PERE MARQUETTE DISTRICT NEWS MARCH/APRIL 2009 ~ 27 NOMINATING PERE MARQUETTE COMMITTEE / ANNUAL MEETING

Serving Youth in Lake, Mason, Muskegon, Newaygo The District Nominating Committee is working to secure and Oceana Counties NEW district offi cers for the 200910 Scouting years. The District Chair- Dave Thornock committee is looking to reach out to new individuals in Cell - 616-638-4266 the community (does not require current scouting registra- District Commissioner - Greg Klimowicz 828-4077 tion). The election of offi cers and the Members at Large Program Chair - John Fedder H- 766-2236 slate will occur at the April District Meeting. Names of Spring Recruitment Chair - Alan Nortan potential prospects should be submitted in writing to either C 616-437-0877 Stan Brown (Nominating Chair) by email (sixtenbrown@ Family Friends of Scouting - Bob Pachman yahoo.com), Dave Thornock (dethornock@cmsenergy. C 231-670-7553 com) or Frank Kule. District Director -Frank Kule B-616-785-2662 or H-578-0564 or FRIENDS OF SCOUTING CAMPAIGN Email: [email protected] March By now, we are well into the annual Friends of Scouting 3 Commissioner Staff Meeting presentation. Every unit is encouraged to have a Friends 5 District Committee Meeting of Scouting presentation. Those Packs that average $45 10 Mason County Fireside Chat per Scout, and Troops and Crews that average $65 per 12 Cub Scout, Boy Scout and Venturing Roundtable Scout member, are termed Blue and Gold (Packs) or Gold 12 O. A. Chapter Meeting Medallion (Troops and Crews) Units. Medallion Units 12 Youth Protection Training receive extra discounts and benefi ts beyond that of the Team Player Units. Some of the added benefi ts include; April FREE cloth badges, FREE Eagle Kits, a FREE Weekend 2 District Committee Meeting at Gerber Scout Camp, discount on purchases at the Scout 3 District Dinner Shop and a rebate on summer camp. Several units have 7 District Commissioners Meeting already qualifi ed as Gold Medallion units while several 9 Cub Scout, Boy Scout and Venturing Roundtables others are very close. For more information or to fi nd out 9 O. A. Chapter Meeting how to make your unit a Medallion Unit, please contact 14 Oceana County Fireside Bob Pachman ([email protected]) or Frank Kule. 14 Youth Protection Training 24 New Leaders Essentials 24 Cub Scout Leader Specifi c Training UNIT LEADERS DISTRICT ROUNDTABLES TRAINING Unit Leaders training takes place throughout the year. If March Roundtable will again feature activities and programs that you should be doing for your April Pack, Troop training is not available for the particular date you need it in our district, we will help you fi nd a course in another and Crew Meetings. We will also be conducting a make- up training for Leaders who have missed the previous nearby Scout District. For Cub Scout Leaders Training, please contact John Wallish (616-842-8696 or jwallish@ Spring Recruitment Training sessions. The Roundtables are held at the Evangelical Lutheran Church (1206 White- netonecom.net). The next Cub Scout Training is scheduled for Friday, April 27th. For information regarding hall Rd) at 7:00 pm. The special feature for that Roundta- ble will be the Adult leader Youth Protection Training. If Boy Scout Leader or Troop Committee Training, please contact Bob Wood (894-2412). The next Boy Scout Train- you have questions about the Roundtables or have something to share, please reach Al Norton (616- 437-0877 – ing Session is set for Saturday, April 14th. For Venturer Training, contact Gary Evans (821-2786). Cub Scouts), Desi Walch (854-6618 - Boy Scouts), Steve Donley (894-5256), John McNamara (873-4281 - Order of the Arrow) or Greg Klimowicz (828-4077). 28 ~ MARCH/APRIL 2009 PERE MARQUETTE DISTRICT NEWS Scouter WHY YOUR UNIT SPRING RECRUITMENT RECOGNITION DINNER WANTS TO SUPPORT This year’s Spring Recruitment Cam- All Scouters should remember that FOSAND POPCORN paign is targeting Cub Scout Packs the District Recognition Dinner is SALEAND BEATEAM and Boy Scout Troops. Information scheduled for Friday, April 3rd. As PLAYER UNIT on this program has been mailed out of the writing of this article, the site to all units and had been distributed location had not yet been confi rmed. As we have discussed many times (as at the February Roundtable. We will Approximate time for the dinner as well as being written up in the Scout- do one more make-up Training Ses- of this writing is 6:00 gathering, with er), it is extremely important and sion for those that have missed the dinner being served at about 7:00. benefi cial for every unit to become a other three trainings. For those Packs Cost for the dinner for this year will Team Player Unit. As a Team Play- that Qualify, we will again be offer- be $12 per person if paid by March er, your unit chooses to fairly share ing the FREE Cub Scout Handbook 20th. Late fees will apply after that. in the cost of helping to defer the program, as well as the FREE Bobcat Chair for the Dinner is Sara Fedder overall cost of Scouting in our com- Badges and Cards as well as Scream- (766-2236 or [email protected]). munities. Those units that DO NOT ing Monkeys. Troops can qualify for The District Dinner is our oppor- qualify as a Team Player Units will the Screaming Monkeys as well as tunity for our District to recognize pay a higher fee during the year for the traditional Recruiter Patches. For those individuals that are working to activities and programs (higher fees help in conducting a Spring Recruit- make Scouting happen for our youth. for District and Council activities, ment Night or if you have questions, Awards to be presented include; as well as for Day Camp and sum- please contact Al Norton at 616-437- District Award of Merit, Vern Deni- mer camp opportunities for our Cub 0877. son Award, Scouting Family Award, Scouts, Boy Scouts and Venturers). CUB SCOUT WINTER Spark Plug Award and others. Forms Those units that choose NOT TO BE are available by contacting Joe Sing- Team Player Units are not doing their CARNIVAL erling. It is also a good opportunity fair share and should not get the same for our Packs, Troops and Crews to If you didn’t attend the Cub Scout Win- lower prices on activities and events recognize their own leaders and par- ter Carnival you missed out on a day ents. Please feel free to contact Joe as those of you that do your fair share. of great fun. Cub Scouts and their Singerling (744-9472) if you would Qualifi cations to be a Team Player siblings from the Pere Marquette Dis- like to recognize someone from your may sound confusing, but it’s not. trict had a chance to play several tra- The requirements are simple; partici- ditional games like dart balloon pop, unit at the dinner. pate in Friends of Scouting (FOS) and as well as several unique games such the Fall Popcorn Sale or another fund as “The Wheel of Scouting”. Tickets raiser and net the Council $70 per ac- were earned for playing games and then tive youth member. Our suggested exchanged for prizes. Chapter 2 of the UPCOMING ACTIVITIES method was averaging $30 per Scout Order of the Arrow had lunch avail- in FOS and $216 GROSS in popcorn able for all. Thank you to the many All Venturing Crews should be sure to Sale per Scout in the Fall Popcorn volunteers and Boy Scouts who gave in send a representative of their Crews to Sale. Any combination netting $246 cheerful service to our youth. Smiles the monthly Roundtables. Venturing net is acceptable. and laughter were heard throughout the Roundtables will start at about 7:30 day, making the event a success. pm, following the joint Roundtable announcements at 7:00. Crews can DISTRICT COMMITTEE MEETING send as many youth as they want to. Details on upcoming Venturer activi- The next meeting of the District Committee will be on Thursday, March 3rd. All ties and programs will be presented at members should plan to attend. This meeting will feature initial discussion and the Roundtable. Serving as the Ven- program planning of calendar dates for the fall 2009 - 2011 Scouting year. Other turing Roundtable Commissioner, is topics of importance will be; status of Friends of Scouting campaign, Spring Re- Steve Donley. If you have topics for cruitment, Summer Camp sign-ups, New Unit Growth and Scouting For Food Par- discussion or have questions, contact ticipation. As in the past, these meetings will be held at the Fifth Reform Church Steve at 231- 894-5256. on M 120 and River Road. The meeting will start at 7:00 pm. Scouter EAGLE SPIRIT DISTRICT NEWS MARCH/APRIL 2009 ~ 29 EAGLE SPIRIT DISTRICT AWARDS DINNER Thursday, May 7, 2009 is the date the Eagle Spirit District Serving Youth in Kent & Barry County will hold its annual Awards Dinner. Fliers will be mailed out to units, but in the meantime, look for reservation forms at District Chair - Michael Walenta, 240-6576 the Service Center in early March. This year we will pres- District Commissioner - Jim Hughes, 447-0359 ent along with the District Award of Merit, the Scouting Spirit District Director-Aaron Turner Award for outstanding enthusiasm and Scout Spirit, the Eagle 785-2662 Spirit District Leadership Award for outstanding and signifi District Executive - Ryan Kriesch cant leadership, the Eagle Spirit District Outreach Award for District Para Professional - Lynnetta Grissom tireless efforts in increasing the Scouting message throughout our urban areas, the Family Scouting Award for an entire ~~~~ family who participates in Scouting, the Women in Scouting District Committee and Commissioner Meetings Award for outstanding women in Scouting, the Eagle Spirit are held at the DeVos Family Center for Scouting. District Honors, presented to spouses of Scouters, and the Cub Scouting Spirit Award, for extraordinary Cub Scouters. Roundtable and related events are held at the Kent- Award applications are available in the Service Center. This wood Christian Church (5841 KalamazooAve. SE). year take the time to nominate those who you know should be March recognized for their efforts to Scouting and the at-large Scout- 4 District Committee Meeting, 5:00 pm ing community!! If you have questions contact Steve Rowe 5 District Commissioners Meeting, 7:00 pm at 616-676-3290. 31 Building Character Dinner, DeVos Place – SCOUTING FOR FOOD 2009 Steelcase Ballroom, 5:00 pm 12 New Leader Essentials Training, 7:00 pm Our Goal this year is to have a bag at EVERY HOUSE IN THE 12 Cub Scout,Boy Scout and Venturer Roundtable, DISTRICT!!! This is a Nationally coordinated BSA service 7:00 pm project that ALL Scouts can and should participate in. The 12 O.A. Chapter Meeting, 7:15 pm Gerald R. Ford Council’s Annual Scouting For Food Drive is 28 Scoutmaster Specifi c Training, 8:00 am right around the corner. Each year Scouts in Eagle Spirit Dis- trict participate in this special event to help feed our areas hun- April gry, and less fortunate. This year we in the Eagle Spirit Dis- 1 District Committee Meeting, 6:30 pm trict challenge everyone to do their good turn by participating. 2 District Commissioner Meeting, 7:00 pm The bag distribution and area sign up will begin at the DeVos 4 Youth Protection Training, 10:00 am Family Center for Scouting on or before the March Roundta- 9 New Leader’s Essentials Training, 7:00 pm ble. There will also be a map of Eagle Spirit County available 9 Cub Scout, Boy Scout and Venturer Round- that day for you to map out your Scouting For Food coverage table, 7:00 pm area. Reserve your territory ear- 9 O.A. Chapter Meeting, 7:15 pm ly. Come with an estimate of 17-19 Council Intro to Outdoor Leader Skills how many bags will be need- Training ed. Bags are scheduled to be 17-19 Council Webelos Leader Outdoor Training distributed March 21st, and 18 Council BALOO – Basic Adult Ldr. Outdoor picked up on March 28th. Be Orientation a part of this Great Service 25 Council Troop Leadership Training Workshop project. Eagle Spirit counties’ families need our help. Do a GOOD TURN! If you have further questions please contact Aaron Turner at the DeVos Center for Scouting @ 785-2662. 30 ~ MARCH/APRIL 2009 EAGLE SPIRIT DISTRICT NEWS Scouter POPCORN 2008, TRAINING, TRAINING, TRAINING BREAKING Due to the efforts of our great training team of Rene’ Taylor, Craig Lee RECORDS…AGAIN!!! and Sid Hedges, we are offering training every month! This helps ensure that your unit is a quality one, and helps you deliver an awesome Here are your Eagle Spirit District TOP Scouting program. We are offering Cub Scout, Boy Scout, and Venturing sellers from this past year’s POPCORN Leader Training throughout the year, so all you leaders, if you are not sale. When you see these guys give them a trained NOW IS THE TIME! We are currently looking for new mem- pat on the back or a HIGH FIVE! bers for our Training Team. If you, or a Scouter you know, would be a 1st-Christopher Herweyer, Troop 338 good candidate for our team, contact Rene’ at 616-308-8032. Many of 2nd-Bailey McGuinness, Pack 3390 you know the importance of being a trained leader, but what does being 3rd-Neal Hoskins, Pack 3065 a trained leader mean? To qualify for Basic Leaders Training you need to complete the following: Fast Start, Youth Protection, New Leaders Council Top Sellers Prize Drawings from Essentials, and Leaders Specifi c Training. Youth protection should be the Eagle Spirit District renewed every two years and leaders specifi c should be renewed every $1500 Prize Drawing, Mitch Miklosi, time you take a new position. So if you were trained as a Tiger Den Troop 282 Leader and transition over to being a Wolf Den Leader, you need to at- Blitz Day Prize, Samuel Lewis, Pack 3226 tend Leaders Specifi c Training for Cub Scout Den Leaders. If you transi Free Summer Camp Ticket, James Barney, tion from a Wolf or Bear Den Leader to Webelos Leader you need to go Troop 202 to Leaders Specifi c Training for Webelos Leaders. This also pertains to Free Summer Camp Ticket, Parker LaTour, anyone participating in an Assistant Scoutmaster or Scoutmaster role; Pack 3282 you need to attend a three session course for being a Scout Leader in a Free Ipod, Ben Thompson, Troop 219 Troop called Scoutmaster Leader Specifi c Training. If you are a Crew leader you need to attend Adult Leaders Training, which is held at all of WEBELOS TO SCOUT our council Venturing activities (Venturing Leadership Skills Course and TRANSITION Venturing Kickback Weekend).

Packs, don’t forget to get your 2nd year Webelos ready for troop visits so they can A BIG SCOUTER THANK YOU TO..... join a troop before the summer. Troops ,don’t forget to visit those packs and pro- We thank Ellen Harold, Eagle Spirit District Activities Chair and her vide Den Chiefs for the packs in your area wonderful staff for a Most Excellent Cub Scout Winterfest and Klondike to show your support and to assist in a Derby. This year’s events were amazing; hundreds of daring Scouts and smooth crossover for those 2nd year We- leaders braved the unpredictable Michigan weather. The weather coop- belos Scouts. Let’s all work extra hard to erated and held off the heavy snow and frigid temperatures until later bring 100% of our Webelos into a quality, in the day and we had an awesome time out at Douglas Walker Park fun Troop program this year! If you need and Yankee Springs. HOORAY! We would also like to give a special more information please contact Ryan Kri- Thank You to those who made these programs possible: Bob Van Ee for esch at 785-2662 or e-mail him at ryan. Volunteering as Winterfest Chair and Ben Bever and John Shipley for [email protected]. (Also let’s get ready volunteering as Klondike Chairs. for a HUGE NEW Tiger Mania Recruit- ment Drive this spring!) BOY SCOUT RECRUITMENT

Troops, now is the time to think about recruiting new boys to the troop. Not only is it time for Webelos to transition to your Troop, but now is the time to plan your open house, and encourage you current scouts to bring a friend to an event or meeting. Have your Troop make a commitment to have more boys in your Troop this year over last. If your unit has not received a copy of our new troop resources and recruiting DVD please contact Ryan Kriesch at 785- 2662 or e-mail him at [email protected]. Scouter LAKESHORE DISTRICT NEWS MARCH/APRIL 2009 ~ 31 LAKESHORE POPCORN! Congratulations to all Scouts, Kernels, Leaders and parents in the Lakeshore District for a great 2008 Trails’ End pop- Serving Ottawa and Allegan Counties plus the corn sale! With everyone working together, we achieved communities of Grandville and Byron Center the biggest sale in history! Our district had the highest sales District Chair: Rich Maike, [email protected], 616- increase and took the top three sale spots in our Council! 846-7367 Due to also having three top district winners, several of our District Commissioner : Brent Loudin, 616-393-9197 Scouts were awarded special Council and district prizes at a District Executive - Matt Hogg 785-2662 January 22nd Board of Director’s recognition dinner. There ~~~~~ are several units who have become 2009 Team Players based solely on their 2008 popcorn sales! Well done everyone! April 2 District Commissioners Meeting (TBD) A big Thank You to all of you who volunteered your time 7 District Committee Meeting, Zeeland Commu- to assist during the sale. Our weekend sorting and pick-up nity Hospital, 7:00 pm went very smoothly. Without your help, it would not have 9 Cub Scout, Boy Scout, Venturing Roundtable, been possible. The 2009 Trail’s End popcorn sale will be Central Wesleyan Church, Holland, 7:00 pm here before you know it! It is not too early to determine your 9 OAChapter Meeting, Central Wesleyan Church, unit popcorn kernel for this sale. We are in need of at least Holland, 7:00 pm one district co-kernel this year. Please contact Cathy McMa- 9 New Leader Essentials, Central Wesleyan nus at [email protected] or Matt Hogg at 1-888-272- Church, Holland, 7:00 pm 4732 if you would be willing to volunteer. 11 Cub Scout Leader Speciﬁ c Scout Master Speciﬁ c, Central Wesleyan Church, Holland, 9:00 am THANK YOU’S

May We would like to thank several people for the time and ef- 1 Boy Scout Camporee, Gerber Scout Camp fort they have put into putting on some stellar activities. 5 District Committee Meeting, Zeeland Commu- First, Chris Sorenson did a fantastic job putting on the 2009 nity Hospital, 7:00 pm Klondike Derby which over 300 Scouts and Scouters had a 7 District Commissioner Meeting (TBD) fantastic time. We would also like to thank Paul Grienke for 9 District Dinner, Central Wesleyan Church, Hol- plowing the main road with his UNIMOG. The Klondike land, 5:00 pm also could not have gone off with out the help of numer- 14 Cub Scout, Boy Scout, Venturing Roundtable, ous Scouters who helped to run stations. Second we would Central Wesleyan Church, Holland, 7:00 pm like to thank Jessica Potter for her out of this world Cub 14 OAChapter Meeting, Central Wesleyan Church, Scout Winterfest which entertained over 300 Cub Scouts Holland, 7:00 pm and parents. We would also like to thank the many Scouts 14 New Leader Essentials, Central Wesleyan and Scouters who helped put on the sports stations that all Church, Holland, 7:00 pm Cub Scouts visited. If you see these people please let them 16 Cub Scout Pinewood Derby, Grandville High know how much you enjoyed their event. School, 8:30 am SPRING RECRUITMENT

We are quickly coming up the time to add some new Cub Scouts and Boy Scouts to our district. Hopefully you have considered taking the time to invite some new Scouts to join your pack, troop, or crew. If you haven’t learned about the incentives that we have for new scouts please contact Jessica Potter at [email protected] or call at 269.543.5012. We look forward to working with you to share the joy of Scouting in our communities. 32 ~ MARCH/APRIL 2009 LAKESHORE DISTRICT NEWS Scouter A BIG SCOUTING WELCOME!! FRIENDS OF SCOUTING

The Lakeshore District would like to welcome Matthew We are now half way through the 2009 Friends of Hogg as our new District Executive. We look forward to Scouting campaign which helps support Scouting pro- working with him as our district continues to grow and share grams throughout out district. If you have a presenta- the joy of Scouting in our communities. tion scheduled we hope that you will make it a goal to become a Team Player unit which gives discounts to all Matt grew up in Ludington, Michigan and joined the lo- Scouting activities as a thank you for your support. If cal Cub Scout Pack when he was 7 years old. He attained you would like to go above and beyond in support of the rank of Webelos before joining Ludington Community Scouting please consider becoming a Gold Medallion Church Troop 1190. In 1995 he gained the rank of Eagle unit which not only gets you discounts but also free Scout and was given the Vigil Honor in 1998. Matt work at badges of rank, a free weekend at Gerber Scout Camp, Gerber Scout Camp for ten years starting out as a Lifeguard and special privileges when you go to summer camp. and eventually becoming program director for the Boy Scout If you haven’t schedule a presentation please call Mat- camp. He was also part of the ﬁ rst Cub Scout Adventureland thew Hogg at 1.888.BSA.GRFC. We look forward to staff when the camp opened it’s doors in the late 90’s. your ﬁ nancial support of our Scouting programs.

As a Scouter he helped expand the Venturing program when it was unveiled in 1998. He was chairman of the Venture Has your unit signed Kickback Weekend for several years and was awarded the up for summer camp? Venture Leadership Award in 2003. Matt became a professional Scouter in 2005. He has served in several areas of Dates are ﬁ lling up fast!! the Gerald R. Ford Council starting out in the Chief Noon- day District moving to the Pere Marquette District. He has recently been promoted to Senior District Executive before transferring to Lakeshore District.

In his spare time, he enjoys climbing, mountain biking, backpacking, SCUBA diving, and hanging out with his ﬁ ancé. He is graduate of Michigan State University.

If you get a chance call him at the council ofﬁ ce to welcome him to our district.

LAKESHORE DISTRICT 2ND ANNUAL PINEWOOD DERBY

Don’t miss the fun and racing excitement as we gear up for our annual district Pinewood Derby. The fun kicks off at 8:30 in the Grandville High School Gymnasium. Make sure you grab an ofﬁ cial ﬂ yer and rules at Roundtable or download it off the Gerald R. Ford Council website. Hope to see you there! For questions contact Clyde Lorenz at 616.877.0837 or email at [email protected] or Congratulations to Troop 21, Roadrunner patrol for the call Matthew Hogg at 1.888.BSA.GRFC ext.217 or email at outstanding display of Scout skills which helped them [email protected]. win the Lakeshore District 2009 Klondike Derby. Scouter MARCH/APRIL 2009 ~ 33

THE GERALD R. FORD COUNCIL ANNUAL DINNER AND SILVER BEAVER Hooray for Heroes...... 2-3 Council Calendar ...... 4 RECOGNITION OA Spring Conclave ...... 4 Popcorn Top Sellers ...... 5 The annual dinner and recogni- Spring Sale ...... 9 tion of our Silver Beaver re- Scouting for Food ...... 12 Building Character Celebration ...... 13-15 cipients will be held on May 28, Silver Beaver Nomination Worksheet...... 17-18 2009. This annual program is The Backpack...... 23-24 designed for two reasons. The fi rst is to recognize and install DEVOS FAMILY CENTER our council offi cers. The second FOR SCOUTING is to recognize our Silver Bea- Monday through Friday 8:30 am to 5:00 p.m. ver recipients. The Silver Bea- Gerald R. Ford Council E-mail-grfc@grfccouncil- ver Award is the highest award bsa.org a local council can bestow on Council Web Site-bsagrfc.org a volunteer. We recognize only a handful of volunteers with this award annually. Nominations are The DeVos Family Center for Scouting will be available in this Scouter (pages 17-18), as well as on closed on the following dates: April 10, 2009 - Good Friday the council web page: www.bsagrfc.org. If you feel someone you know is worthy of this award please GERALD R. FORD NATIONAL make sure you fi ll out the form. They cannot be se SCOUT SHOP HOURS lected if they are not nominated. Invitations for this Monday 9:00 am to 7:00 p.m. event will be available in early May. If you have Tuesday through Friday - 9:00 am to 6:00 p.m. questions or would like more information, please Saturday 10:00 am to 2:00 p.m. contact Aaron Gach at the DeVos Family Center for E-mail: [email protected] Scouting.

Gerald R. Ford Council Boy Scouts of America 3213 Walker Ave. NW Grand Rapids, Michigan 49544-9775 616-785-2662 FAX: 616-785-0835 Watts:1-888-BSA-GRFC E-Mail Address: [email protected] Web Site: bsagrfc.org

Your Friends of Scouting and President...... Honorable Hugh W. Brenneman, Jr. Council Commissioner...... Steve Shanstrom Popcorn Dollars at Work! VP Administration...... Bill Hildebrand VP District Operations ...... Tom Wheeler Council Treasurer...... Joseph Stojak Scout Executive ...... Michael Sulgrove Typesetting & Layout .Marci Byxbe, Kris Racek A Community Partner