JANUARY 2008 SMOKE SIGNALS

Mt. Diablo Silverado Council Issue # 2008/01

ANNUAL RECOGNITION DINNER AND SILVER INSIDE BEAVER AWARDS THIS ISSUE The 2008 Annual Recognition Dinner 2008 FRIENDS OF CAMPAIGN and Silver Beaver Awards will be held KICK-OFF! Important Dates 2 on Friday, February 22nd at the Walnut Friends of Scouting (FOS) is the largest fundraiser in support Creek Marriott Hotel. The reservation of Scouting in the Mt. Diablo Silverado Council. The campaign Memorials/Tributes 2 form is included in this edition of runs from January through June each year and every family is Aklan 10 Smoke Signals and is available on-line asked to participate with a suggested contribution of $175. This or at the Council Service Center. money helps to operate the Scouting program to serve over Black Diamond 11 21,000 youth in the Mt. Diablo Silverado Council. The coveted is the Chief Solano 12 highest award a Council can present Funding provides affordable camping experiences for Iron Horse 13 a volunteer. Recipients of the Silver Cubs and Scouts; supports training programs; support and Beaver have contributed extensively recruiting materials for Packs and Troops; Accident and Lake 14 to Scouting over a significant period Liability Insurance; the Council Service Center; the support of time. staff that maintain registration; advancement and camping Marsh Creek 15 records; a team of professionally trained staff that leads the way in recruiting, training, and promoting Scouting activities; Meridian 16 The deadline to submit nominations and more. for the Silver Beaver Award is January Muir 17 7th, 2008. Nomination forms are Please make sure your Unit FOS Chair attends your District Silver Gate 18 available online, from the District FOS kick-off in January to pick-up Unit FOS packets and to Committee, or from the Council receive training and support to ensure a successful unit FOS Venture Youth 19 Service Center. The selected Silver campaign. Please contact your District FOS Chair or District will be announced after the Executive for your kick-off date. New Eagles 20 selection committee meets in late January. 2008 FOS KEY LEADERSHIP AKLAN Nate Bell 925-253-2900 [email protected] For further information, contact your BLACK DIAMOND Rick Hornbeck 925-437-0198 [email protected] District Executive or CHIEF SOLANO Vacant Vacant Chelsea McClain, Finance Director IRON HORSE Cindy Wells 925-363-0092 [email protected] (925) 674-6172 or by email: [email protected]. MARSH CREEK Gery Dake 925-516-7931 [email protected] MERIDIAN Jim Berry 925-580-0632 [email protected] PLEASE SEE PAGE 3 FOR THE HERMS Jim Hartman 510-525-6195 [email protected] DINNER RESERVATION FORM, AND PAGE 5 FOR THE AWARD MUIR Al Limberg 925-685-3791 [email protected] NOMINATION FORM NAPA VALLEY Dave Finnigan 707-255-8928 LAKE Vacant Vacant POPCORN NEWS SILVERGATE Eric Freeman 707-557-2076 [email protected] PACK 828 MERIDIAN DISTRICT Sanders of Pack 828 in the Meridian Council Wes Hilton 925-798-5111 [email protected] District was the winner of the VP Finance Alan Gould 925-254-6426 [email protected] Mongoose Electric scooter. He was FOS Staff Advisor Joe Darr 925-674-6156 [email protected] selected form those who sold online popcorn in December. Congratulations Finance Secretary Jessica Galle 925-674-6105 [email protected] to Sanders!!!! Finance Director Chelsea McClain 925-674-6172 [email protected] Page 

I M P O R T A N T Memorials & Tributes DATES In Sympathy & Loving Memory of Vern Bluhm JANUARY Joseph & Audrey Samora 1 New Years Holiday Service Center Closed In Sympathy & Loving Memory of 7 Silver Beaver Nominations Due Edward Baldwin Robert, Shirlaine & Aimee Baldwin 21 Martin Luther King Day Service Center Closed Tribute to Aakash Sylver Ramsey FEBRUARY Joan & Gary Templeman 18 Presidents’ Day Tribute to Service Center Closed Mike & Debbie Youmans 22 Annual Recognition Dinner at Scott & Linda DeVenney Walnut Creek Marriott

INTERNATIONAL REUNION Your International Committee is planning a reunion to which all are invited. Potluck BBQ on Sat, Feb 9 at Camp Herms. 6 PM There will be folks from: • Crew 26 Japan Treks (Herms District Senshu District –Sakai Sister City (1975-2007-every 2 years), • Crew 405 Crew Kenya Trek and Service July-August 2007 • Two World Troops in England last July-August. • Previous World in Australia, Japan, Thailand, Chile • Past Central American Panama Nicaragua 2004 Information will be available for: • The upcoming local International , May 16-18 2008 in Mataguay Ranch San Diego (at the time of the BSA National Meeting) • Camporee Centroamerica XXII in Mexico • The Rendezvous planned in the Sierra next summer There will be time for brief Power Point presentations to the entire group, but we all can have laptop shows and souvenirs on display. Bring the brochure for your next trip. We’ll have charcoal going so bring your own meat and condiments, if desired, and Families A-F bring main dishes-entrees Families G-M bring bread, chips, potato dish, crackers Families N-R bring Beverages Families S-Z bring Desserts, fruit, cheese

Smoke Signals is published monthly, with the exception of the Editor: Chelsea McClain combined June/July issue, by: Phone: (925)674-6172 Mt. Diablo Silverado Council Email: [email protected] Boy Scouts of America 800 Ellinwood Way Second Class Postage paid at: Pleasant Hill, CA 94523 Concord, CA 94520-9998 Phone: (925) 674-6100 POSTMASTER - Send address changes to address at left. Page  Mt. Diablo Silverado Council Boy Scouts of America

Annual Recognition Dinner Friday February 22nd, 2008 At The Walnut Creek Marriott 2355 North Main Street Walnut Creek, California Doors open at 6:30 p.m. Dinner at 7:00 p.m. $45.00 per person Join with us to celebrate the Council’s 2007 Silver Beaver Recipients Mail your check and reservation form to the Mt. Diablo Silverado Council, BSA 800 Ellinwood Way, Pleasant Hill, CA 94523 Make Checks Payable to Mt. Diablo Silverado Council, BSA OR If paying with a credit card you may fax 925-674-6190 OR Register on-line at www.bsa-mdsc.org. As a courtesy to those planning the dinner, please respond by February 15th. Tickets will not be sold at the door and are non-refundable. Please cut along the line and mail it with your check ______Council Recognition Dinner Please Print Name ______District______Address______Phone______City______Zip code______Email______Meal Preference (please circle) ***Remember this event is during LENT*** Beef/fish/veggie Guest Name ______beef/fish/veggie Guest Name ______beef/fish/veggie Guest Name ______beef/fish/veggie Guest Name ______beef/fish/veggie Guest Name ______beef/fish/veggie Guest Name ______beef/fish/veggie Guest Name ______beef/fish/veggie

Reserve a table of eight (yes) / (no) Number in Party ______at $45.00 each = $______Enclosed

Visa / Master Card / American Express # ______Exp Date ______3 Digit Security Code (on back of card) ______Page 

SILVER BEAVER NOMINATION INSTRUCTUONS AND RULES

RULES AND REGULATIONS of the BOY SCOUTS OF AMERICA Article X, Section 6, Clause 3 --- Silver Beaver Award

The Boy Scouts of America, acting through the National Court of Honor, may award the Silver Beaver Award for distinguished service to youth upon the following basis and procedure:

a. This award may be made each year upon the nomination of chartered local councils. These nominations shall be submitted not less than 30 days in advance of the INSTRUCTIONS date upon which it is desired to present the awards. 1. Be sure to give the full name and titles (if any) of the nominee exactly as you want them to appear on the b. The award is made for noteworthy service of certificate. Please do not use abbreviations, initials only, or exceptional character to youth by registered Cub Scouts, nicknames. For example: Robert Henry Bradley; Doctor Scouters, Varsity Scouters, and Exploring leaders within the William Francis Kelly; Captain Arthur Russell Johnson; territory under the jurisdiction of a local council. The Most Reverend Richard Joseph Brown, D.D.; Vice Admiral John Donald Morrison; The Honorable James c. As evidence of the award there shall be presented: Kerwood Ross; Ms. Mary Hartie; etc. a suitable certificate, duly authenticated by the Boy Scouts of America, pursuant to the action of the National Court of 2. Furnish as much information as possible for Honor; and a miniature Silver Beaver suspended by a blue sections a, b, and c. For example, in section b: president, and white ribbon to be worn around the neck. Libertyville Rotary Club; vestryman, St. Paul’s Church; chairperson, Red Cross campaign; Exalted Ruler, Elks d. It shall be a general policy that no public Lodge No. 18; vice president, PTA; adjutant, American announcements shall be made by the local council in Legion Post 43; medical director, Cross County Hospital; advance of action by the National Court of Honor with past District Deputy Grand Master, F. & A.<.; Grand reference to names presented for consideration. Knight, Knights of Columbus Council 16; etc. (Specific group identification enables us to provide name to national e. Each duly chartered local council shall be entitled organization headquarters, who usually wish to compliment to one nomination. Councils having more than 60 units the recipient of the honor.) shall be entitled to further nominations on the basis of one for each additional 60 units or fraction thereof in their 3. Long-established policy limits the award of the territory, as of December 31 preceding the nomination, Silver Beaver to adults 21 and over who are registered as according to the records of the national office. volunteer Scouters. f. Councils not using their full allotment in any 4. Nominations will not be considered for former year may accumulate the unused portion for use in any professional Scouters or council employees within 5 years subsequent year. of their leaving employment with the BSA (i.e., any form of full-time employment such as secretary, , or g. In extraordinary cases, the Silver Beaver Award professional-technical position). may be made by the National Court of Honor to a Scouter upon the recommendation of the duly constituted Scouting 5. Nominations cannot be considered for posthumous authorities having supervision of the duly constituted awards. Scouting authorities having supervision of one or more units of the Boy Scouts of America, located outside of 6. Order Silver Beaver insignia on the regular supply the United States and not under the jurisdiction of a local order form from your Supply Division distribution center. council. Page 

SILVER BEAVER NOMINATION

This nomination is due to the Council Office no later than January 7, 2008.

I/we take pleasure in submitting this nomination for the Silver Beaver Award for distinguished service to youth. (Give full name and titles of Scouter to be honored exactly as you will want the certificate lettered if the award is granted. See instructions on reverse side.)

Name ______

Address ______

Occupation ______

The nominee is registered in Scouting as ______and holds a membership certificate expiring

______, 20___ (If Scouter is currently unit-connected, give unit number ______.)

RECORD UPON WHICH THIS NOMINATION IS BASED (Give pertinent facts, dates, and offices held. If more space is needed, please add extra sheets.) a. Record of service in the Boy Scouts of America. (Name chartered organizations in cases where service is unit-connected.

b. Statement covering the nominee’s standing in the community, citing activities in which the individual is most active in business, professional, civic, religious, educational, fraternal, veteran, rural, and other fields exclusive of Scouting. (See instructions on reverse side.)

c. Record of noteworthy service of exceptional character to youth within the territory under the jurisdiction of the council.

Submitted by: ______Date: ______Page 

Become a Better Commissioner! Attend the 2008 Northern California Commissioner’s College Saturday, February 23, 2008

Where? AT&T Inc. 2600 Camino Ramon San Ramon, CA 94583

What? Seven Training Tracks with over 25 Courses for every level of Commissioner and every level of Commissioner experience.

Cost? $30.00 early registration, through February 8 $35.00 February 9, through February 21 $40.00 at the door

Price includes catered lunch, snacks and course handouts. Register early for lowest cost.

All participants should have completed BSA Youth Protection. Those taking Basic Training should have viewed the video, “Unit Commissioner’s Orientation: Helping Units Succeed.”

Schedule: 8:00 Registration Opens 8:00 – 9:00 Gathering & Social Time – Breakfast Snacks 9:00 – 9:50 Keynote Speaker: Jan Perkins, Area 3 President 9:50 College Orientation 10:00 – 12:00 Morning Classes 12:00 – 1:30 Lunch Speaker: , Asst. Chief Scout Exec. 1:30 – 4:30 Afternoon Classes 4:30 – 5:00 Graduation & Closing

Commissioner Service – Key to the Future • Get ready for higher levels of responsibility Become a better Commissioner • Earn the distinction of holding a “College” Degree! Share ideas with your fellow Commissioners Registration is now open. For more information and to register for this event Go to the Nor Cal Commissioner Resource Site: www.norcalcommissioner.org and click on “College 2008” Page  REGISTER NOW!

Northern California Commissioners College Saturday, February 23, 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM AT & T I n c . 2600 Camino Ramon, San Ramon, CA 94583

Morning Speaker Jan Perkins Area 3 President

Luncheon Speaker Wayne Brock Assistant

This is a “Must Attend” for All Commissioners and Interested Scouters

For more information and to register for this event, go to the Nor Cal Commissioner Resource Site: www.norcalcommissioner.org and click on “College 2008" Page  BLACKHAWK 500 Mt. Diablo Silverado Championship The 6th Annual Mt. Diablo Silverado Pinewood Derby Championship is Coming to the Black- hawk Auto Museum in Danville on April 12, 2008! All Cubs from within the Council are in- vited to participate.

There will be racing, a design competition & great food. During the event the whole family can tour the Blackhawk Museum’s magnificent auto collection and the fabulous exhibits. There will be tons of neat stuff to see and do! Wear your Scout uniform and get in free.

Registration information and event rules will be available on the Council website at www.bsa-mdsc.org. Contact Stephan Olvera, Event Chairman, at (925) 786-3224 with any questions. Save the Date!! ------2008 Blackhawk 500 Patch Design Contest!

Cub Scouts, send us your original design for the 2008 Blackhawk 500 Pinewood Derby Patch! One design will be selected and used as the official patch for the upcoming Blackhawk 500*. The designer of the chosen patch will also receive free entry into the Blackhawk 500! Rules & Guidelines: 1. All designs must be done on and fit within the 3” circle on this page. 2. All designs must include the wording “2008 Blackhawk 500” and “Mt. Diablo Silverado Council”. 3. Limit of 1 design per boy. 4. All designs must be received by January 16, 2008.

When you’re all done, mail this form to: Mt. Diablo Silverado Council Blackhawk 500 Patch Design 800 Ellinwood Way Pleasant Hill, CA 94523 Make sure to include your name, unit#, rank, address, and phone number

* Necessary modifications will occur in order to convert the original design into a graphic image.

If you have any questions, please call Jorge Regan at (925) 674-6102 or e-mail at [email protected] Page  BLACKHAWK 500 Mt. Diablo Silverado Pinewood Derby Championship

Saturday, April 12th Blackhawk Auto Museum 3700 Blackhawk Plaza Circle, Danville Come on out to the 6th Annual Mt. Diablo Silverado Pinewood Derby Champi- onship! All Cubs are invited to participate! There will be racing, a design com- petition, and great food. During the event the whole family can tour the Black- hawk Museum's magnificent auto collection and the fabulous exhibits. There will be tons of neat stuff to see and do! Wear your full Scout field uniform and get your whole family in to the museum for free!

Approximate race times on April 12th: 8:30am Doors open, check in 9:00 Opening Ceremony 9:30 to 10:30 Tigers and Wolves 11:00 to 12:00 Bears and Webelos 12:30 to 1:00 Grand Finals

Mandatory technical Inspection and Impound will be the week prior to the event at the MDSC Council Office (800 Ellinwood Way, Pleasant Hill, CA).

For more information, go to: www.blackhawk500.org Questions? Contact event chairman Stephan Olvera at (925) 786-3224 or [email protected] Page 10

Aklan Newsletter Chairman Open Popcorn/ CS Membership Michele Poloka (925) 943-6030 Commissioner Gary Snyder (925) 937-2562 Smoke Signals Open District Executive Mary April (925) 674-6122 Training Bill Phelon (925) 254-8338 Activities Open Training John Spahr (925) 944-9467 ADC for LDS Ashley Powell (925) 284-8592 Cub Scout Roundtable Paul Shimotake (925) 210-1331 Camporee Norbert Megowan (925) 899-0040 Boy Scout Roundtable Rodney Mangus (925) 254-7445 Cub Recruiting Open Eagle Boards Martha Rogers (925) 935-7565 Day Camp Paul Shimotake (925) 210-1331 Eagle Packets Carter Wells (925) 284-9179 Finance Wes Hilton (925) 284-7982 Eagle Projects Dick Miles (925) 283-6109 Food Drive Cory Reid (925) 377-0971 OA Co-Advisor Bill Lew (925) 937-9348 FOS - Community Open Membership Herb Lederman (925) 631-0229 Merit Badges Martha Rogers (925) 935-7565

CENTENNIAL QUALITY UNIT DAYCAMP 2008 Centennial Quality Units forms for 2007 CALENDAR should be completed and submitted. No later than December 15th forms for 2008 are in your JANUARY Recharter’s – Please get those into us ASAP. Thank you !! 7 Key 3 Meeting 7 District Committee Meeting POW WOW 2008 The “Pow Wow” is located St. Patrick – The Day camp this year is called Wild Wild 9 Commissioners St.Vincent High School 1500 Benicia Road West and it should be a lot of fun!! We have Committee meeting, 6:30pm Vallejo. Save the date January 19th. 8:00am a great team of directors and program staff to 9 Aklan Round Table – 4:00pm - Don’t miss it!!! Register on line or run camp, Thank goodness many volunteers at the council office 800 Ellinwood Way. ( go are coming back from last year!!! - But we do 19 Pow Wow under calander on the BSA site to sign up) Lots all of your help in the district to make camp of new classes, everyone should go and learn successful!! Please, Parents! Volunteer your FEBRUARY something NEW!! ( Daycare available) time!!! On line Registration starts in January!!! 6 District Committee 6:30 pm Get excited!!! FOS 2008 13 Aklan Round Table 7:30 pm Get ready for the 2008 Campaign!!! Please DISTRICT DINNER 2008 23 Commissioners Conference have your Unit pick a FOS representative get in It will be held on February 13th at the Round contact with Nate Bell 253-2900 let him know table location 1035 Carol Lane , in Lafayette. about your UNITS PRESENTATION DATE The dinner will be catered and nice so please ROUND TABLE and TIME and LOCATION!!! Your Training feel free to invite your whole family and people Aklan Round Table is held on the 2nd dates are scheduled for January 5th at Orinda in your unit. ( The cost is $20.00 a person) Wednesday of the month Jan. 9th 7:30 pm, Library from 10-11:30am – January 8th from Please sign up at the office or at roundtable or at Our Savior’s Lutheran Church at 1035 Carol 7-8:30pm and January 17th at 7-8:30pm at the call Mary April to reserve your spot!! Please Lane in Lafayette. All adults are invited, Council office – 800 Ellinwood Way !!! You make sure you elect at least one person from to learn about upcoming events and have will learn a lot and will make your FOS Job every unit to be the “ Unit Scouter of the Year discussions regarding Boy Scouts, Cub Scouts, much easier to DO!!! Please make this a priority “ Committees, Training, Den activities, Troop in your Unit this year we want to achieve our and Pack outings, etc. Also, if you would like GOAL!! $130,000.00…. Thank you so much SCOUTING FOR FOOD to join. Please join us, and add to our great for all your efforts in this campaign it really A huge Thank you From Cory Reid and all the group of People!!! makes a difference in Scouting!!! Units – We had a great time with collecting this year!!1 I’ve never seen so much food from such RECHARTERING BLACK HAWK 500 a small community!! Congratulations!! The It is pass time to get these in!! Please get all It’s time for Black Hawk 500’s annual patch food bank was very happy with all you have youth and adult applications in as soon as design contest! Contact- Ironhorse – Jorge at done for others this holiday season…….Thank possible!! It is a very important process for (925) 674-6102 you to the LDS church in Moraga for letting us everyone in the Aklan District!! They were or email [email protected] for a contest use there Parking lot. passed out at Roundtable and please call Mary form or check out the council website at April and schedule an appointment: www.bsa-mdsc.org/blackhawk500.php DE’S CORNER 925-674-6122.or cell 202-3882 Need to be in for more information!! Thank you so much for attending the Round the Scout office before the Holidays. Tables. I would love to have input on our I am going to try to encourage all to attend, as CAMPOREE 2008 it really helps us as a district to communicate!! We are planning to have camporee which Remember if you have any changes in your Gabe Esquivel (415-297-8904) is in charge of units, fill out new membership applications and and will we scheduled in May 3-4 2008 at Bort turn them in! Any Questions please feel free to Meadows. This year is going to be a really call Mary April at 925-674-6122 or 202-3882. great time!!! Page 11

"/5*0$) Black Diamond Newsletter Chairman Greg Bingham (925) 754-9571 Eagle Appointments Teresa Klein (925) 755-8934 Dist. Commissioner Craig Baker (925) 565-6414 Merit Badges Teresa Klein (925) 755-8934 District Executive Kamilla Wade Training Pete Klein (925) 755-8934 Asst. Dist. Comm. Doug Beckstrand (925) 634-6134 Training Registrar open 1*554#63( Asst. Dist. Comm. Steve Evans (925) 779-9560 Activities open Asst. Dist. Comm. Lisa Bramblet (925) 778-3165 Scouting for Shelter Walter Ruehlig (925) 750-7628 CS Roundtable OPEN Finance & FOS Rick Hornbeck (925) 437-0198 BS Roundtable Terry Kobersteon (925) 757-2148 Popcorn Cyndy Weatherby (925) 779-1359 OA & Camping Wayne Butler (925) 754-8466 Smoke Signals Editor Kathleen Kirk (925) 754-0588 #":10*/5 Spring Camporee Mike Kean (925) 778-7422 [email protected] Membership Dan Soares (925) 778-9293 Day Camp Director Maria Boss (925) 813-0393 #-"$,%*".0/% Advancement Craig Baker (925) 565-6414

SCOUT vs WILD AT CAMPOREE SCOUT-O-RAMA SET The date has been set for the Black Diamond Black Diamond District’s SCOUT-O-RAMA CALENDAR District Camporee —the weekend of Friday, will be on the 17th of May, at Prewitt Park. May 30th–June 1st, 2008, at Camp Pollock, Additional info will be coming soon. JANUARY which is located along the American River in 2 December District Meeting, Sacramento. This is one of the few events where all units— 7:30PM Packs, Troops and Crews—can get together 5-6 Christmas Tree Pick-Up The Camporee theme is Scout vs Wild and the and show the community our unity. Let’s get it cookpot competition is “Meat on a Stick”. This on our calendars and represent our units. 10 Commissioner’s Meeting, year’s Camporee is being held a few weeks later 6:30PM in the season than usual, to avoid rain. Note that Questions call, Dan Soares at (925) 778-9293. 10 Roundtable Meeting, 7:30PM the Wolfeboro Ordeal is planned for 2 weeks 12-13 Christmas Tree Pick-Up after the Camporee! Visit www.troop153.org POW WOW and click on the Camporee link for more info. 19 Pow Wow, Vallejo Questions? Contact Mike Kean at 778-7422 or 31 District Meeting, 7:30PM Mike.Kean @comcast.net DISTRICT CAMPFIRE FEBRUARY 1 District Camp Fire, 7:00 PM Attention all Cub Scouters! Be sure to attend 2 Scout Sabbath the Pow Wow training, which offers a huge 3 Scout Sunday variety of courses to enhance your Scouting 14 Commissioner’s Meeting, experience. It is in Vallejo on January 19th. 6:30PM 14 Roundtable Meeting, 7:30PM Applications for Pow Wow will available at the December Roundtable and at www.bsa-mdsc. 28 District Meeting, 7:30PM org. This year’s Black Diamond District Campfire MARCH is on Friday, Feb 1st. It will be held at the Contra Den Chief Training Costa Fair Grounds. Every unit should bring Den Chief Training will be available for Boy 8 District Awards Dinner a skit or song to present during the evening’s Scouts wanting the training during Pow Wow. 13 Commissioner’s Meeting, entertainment. It is an all day course! 6:30PM 13 Roundtable Meeting, 7:30PM SCOUT SUNDAY CUB SCOUT DAY CAMP In 2008, Scout Sunday is celebrated on February Each Cub Scout Pack should designate a 27 District Meeting, 7:30PM 3rd. The Boy Scouts of America designates the representative to attend the District’s Day MAY Sunday that falls before February 8 (Scouting Camp meetings. Anniversary Day) as Scout Sunday, which is 17 Scout-O-Rama the primary date to recognize the contributions We are all responsible for running the week– May 30-Jun 1 — Camporee at of young people and adults to Scouting. long program. More information will be Camp Pollock forthcoming. Check with your place of worship to see if it Unless otherwise noted, all District meetings are at the LDS is appropriate to wear your uniform to the Chapel on Rio Grande in Antioch service. Page 12

Chief Solano Newsletter Dist. Chair Tom Guigni 864-3387 Dist. Exec VACANT Asst. Dist. Chair John Ricketts 422-4731 Dist. Commissioner Terry Odneal 290-3326 CS Day Camp 2007 Lisa Miller 437-8533 Christmas Trees 2007 Helen Cakus 428-3437 Training Jeff Done 421-1605 Advancement Richard Ball 426-2567 Camping Vern Bluhm 425-6678 Program Jim Broughton 425-3390 CS Roundtable Mariane Cox 863-9198 OA Advisor Dave Ricketts 422-9928 Family FOS VACANT Dist. News Sue Odneal 426-1534 Popcorn 2007 Helen Caukus 428-3437 Merit Badges Sue Laren 864-1582 Membership Kathy Sawyer 422-1474 BS Roundtable Darrin Nicholson (707) 207-3667 Activities Dave Cliché (530) 795-1401 Finance Vacant District website: www.chiefsolano.com Serving the Communities of Fairfield, Cordelia, Suisun& Travis AFB

TREE RECYCLING FRIENDS OF SCOUTING 2008 CONTINUES IN Remember to contact the Family -Giving FOS- CALENDAR JANUARY Chair to book your unit’s presentations (usually January 5 and 12 will probably at Blue and Gold events for Cub Scout packs JANUARY be the big days for tree pick and at winter or spring Courts of Honor for Boy 3 up. Encourage your Scouts and Scout troops). This is a critical engagement, to 5 Tree Recycling Day 2 families to participate. They will make sure that all families are aware of the 10 Roundtable be helping the environment as well as earning opportunity they have to support Scouting in 10 Unit Commissioners money for the unit’s treasury. this way. 12 Tree Recycling Day 3 17 District Committee The District Hotline number 19 Pow Wow for Cub Leaders for consumers will be 421-5308. 19 Den Chief Training We are requesting that all units publicize and use this number. FEBRUARY When your Scout encourages another boy to 7 Order of the Arrow DEN CHIEF TRAINING join Scouting, he will receive this special red, 7 Roundtable AT white, and blue recruiter strip to be worn on his 7 Unit Commissioners POW WOW uniform. To earn this award, your son’s friend 21 District Committee Den Chief training will be offered concurrent just needs to register as a Cub Scout and start with Pow Wow sessions at the same location. having a fun, rewarding year—that’s all that’s www.ChiefSolanoBSA.com Boy Scouts who are interested in working required! Invite someone to join today! with Cub dens as part of their leadership or CUB SCOUT POW WOW service requirements need to take this training BLUE & GOLD JANUARY 19 in preparation. Fee for the training is $15 and TIME TO START PLANNING If you haven’t registered for Pow Wow yet, time includes a lunch, patch, and program materials. A major highlight of the Cub Scouting year is the is running out quickly. This event is one of the Registration information is available at www. Blue & Gold event. Whether you have a dinner, highlights of the Cub Scout year. This year’s mdscbsa.org/powwow.php a breakfast, or something entirely different, this session promises to be lots of fun, with the is the time for the Pack to show family, friends, theme of “Cubs in Storybook Land,” and will sponsors, and public dignitaries how much be held at St. Patrick/St. Vincent High School Scouting means to you. The availability of the in Vallejo. locations and the people you want to invite book up quickly, so it’s good to start planning Remember that all Cub adults, both leaders and now. Contact your Unit Commissioner if you parents, are invited to Pow Wow. All kinds of have any questions. classes, from boy management to cooking and crafts are on the schedule.

Don’t miss out on one of the best opportunities IN MEMORIAM for training that the Council offers. Go to www. mdscbsa.org/powwow.php to register, or you Vern Bluhm can mail your registration form to the Council. 1925-2007

Thanks for your many years of dedication. We will miss you. Page 13

Iron Horse Newsletter Chairman Rob Schroder (925) 934-6789 Recognition Chair Bill Dorband (925) 938-1200 Vice Chairman Randy Summers (925) 363-0092 Smoke Signals/Secretary Wendy Cannell-Nottage (925) 689-7982 Commissioner Phil Mulvihill (925) 938-9675 Special Events Lee Palmer (925) 943-1434 District Executive Jorge Regan (925) 674-6102 Training Chuck Savage (925) 932-4843 Advancement/MBC’s Lynn Oakleaf (925) 370-8332 Cub Scout Training Linda Heasell (925) 370-0775 Camporee Mike Cesca (925) 370-7978 Venturing Training Camilla Hester-Alvaro (925) 692-1104 Scouting for Food Wendy Cannell-Nottage (925) 363-0092 Conservation Lillian Remer (925) 935-8707 Day Camp Director Michelle Frith (925) 827-5784 Uniforms/ CS Roundtable Elizabeth Witt (925) 932-1052 Boy Scout Training Louise Dombrowski (925) 825-9377 Boy Scout Roundtable Gary Neuman (925) 947-3792 Popcorn Tom Cooper (925) 899-2455 Eagle Boards Mark Beaudrow (925) 682-5578 Program George Vetek (925) 934-1520 Eagle Packets Ray Winter (925) 945-6162 Relationships Laura Birnbaumer (925) 256-6390 Eagle Projects Lillian Remer (925) 935-8707 Relationships (LDS) Marshall Roe (925) 798-5990 OA Advisor Peter Young (925) 408-8501

Please wear boots or sturdy shoes, long pants, INTERNATIONAL COMMITTEE work gloves, and dress for the weather. If it The MDSC International Committee is CALENDAR is raining be sure to bring a change of shoes planning a potluck BBQ on Saturday February and plastic bags to keep mud off upholstery. If 9, 2008 at Camp Herms at 6:00 PM to which JANUARY you have loppers (long handled cutters) please you are all invited. bring them but make sure to put your name 1 Life to Eagle and phone number on the handle in permanent This is the first annual reunion of Scouts and ink. 5 FOS Training in Orinda Scouters who have participated in International Treks. In attendance will be members of the 8 Eagle Project Board The Nunes area is approximately 1250 Castro 2007 World Jamboree Troops as well as past Ranch Road (between Orinda and El Sobrante). World Jamborees held in Australia, Japan , 8 FOS Training in Pleasant Hill From Pleasant Hill: go east on Alhambra Valley Thailand , Chile; also members of Central 10 Roundtable Road past Bear Creek Road. At the “Y”, go left American Camporee contingents to Guatemala, onto Castro Ranch Road (Pinole Valley Road is Panama, Nicaragua and El Salvador, members 12 Conservation Project more or less straight at the “Y” so don’t miss the of the Herms-Senshu Exchange to Japan from turn). From Highway 24 in Orinda: go north on 15 Eagle Review Board 1975 to 2007, members of Venture Crew 405 Camino Pablo which becomes San Pablo Dam and their 2007 trek to Kenya, and more! 17 FOS Training in Pleasant Hill Road (after Bear Creek Road ). After San Pablo Reservoir and Kennedy Grove, turn right onto Contact Thomas Cooper at 19 POW - WOW Castro Ranch Road. Please carpool if at all [email protected] or (925) 899-2455 possible to minimize parking impact. for more information RSVP by January 5, 2008 to Lillian Remer FEBRUARY 935-8707 or [email protected] BLACK HAWK 500 with the approximate number of participants 3 Scout Sunday Registration for Black Hawk 500 will be coming and a unit contact person. up soon! Get those Pinewood Racers ready! 5 Life to Eagle See the flyer and contest entry form in this Plan ahead for Earth Day. On Saturday issue of Smoke Signals for more information 7 Roundtable April 19, 2008, we will be doing invasive plant or call Jorge at (925) 674-6102. You can also 9 Scout Sabbath removal with the EBMUD rangers – again on email him at [email protected]. watershed land. 12 Eagle Project Board DE’S CORNER 19 Eagle Review Board FOS Re-Charters, Centennial Quality Unit Forms The 2008 FOS Campaign is in full swing. Make and 2007 registration fees should all be in. Any sure Cindy Wells knows your unit’s presentation outstanding forms or fees need to be sent to the ROUNDTABLE date, time and location so someone can be there Council Office immediately, or call Jorge to set Roundtable is scheduled for the SECOND to help! Training for Unit FOS Chairs will be up an appointment at (925) 674-6102. Thursday of the month at 7:30pm at 2369 at the Orinda Library January 5th at 10am, and Overlook Drive, Church of Jesus Christ of then the Council Office January 8th and 17th at Thanks to everyone for their support in the Latter Day Saints Overlook Chapel in Walnut 7pm. Please RSVP to Jorge or Cindy. past year. Iron Horse once again finished with Creek. It will be following the Commissioners another excellent year under our belt. I will meeting. CAMPOREE 2008 have more information in next month’s issue, Start planning now for your May 2008 so stay tuned! CONSERVATION Camporee. The dates have been set for April Join us on Saturday January 12, 2008 from 9 to 25-27 at Bort Meadows. POC is Mike Cesca noon with sign-in at 8:30 am. We will be cutting at (925)370-7978 or Lee Palmer at and planting willow stakes to help restore the (925)943-1434. Nunes area of EBMUD Watershed lands. SCOUTING FOR FOOD This is always a fun project, and is held rain or Thanks to all the units who participated in our shine. Light refreshment (but not a lunch) will annual Scouting for Food drive. This year, we be available but it is best to bring your own collected 24,713 pounds of food. That’s 16% canteen. more than last year. Way to go, Iron Horse. Page 14

Lake Highlander Highlights Chairman Doug Wacker (707) 263-2340 Program Pamela Allen (707) 263-8190 Vice Chairman Rob Roumiguiere (707) 279-0356 Smoke Signals Bob Burrows (707) 274-1519 Commissioner Peggy Engstrom (707) 994-9523 email: [email protected] District Executive Tom Schneider (925) 674-6173 Training Suisei Heidebrecht (707) 994-9613 Activities Open Cub Scout Roundtable Suisei Heidebrecht (707) 994-9613 Advancement Brett Behrens (707) 994-9523 Boy Scout Roundtable Brett Behrens (707) 994-9523 Camping Marty Klier (707) 263-3380 Eagle Reviews Don Carter (707) 279-1362 Finance Open OA Advisor Marty Klier (707) 263-3380 Membership Open

RECHARTERS Congratulations everyone for all of your efforts CALENDAR toward our annual re-registration. District Commissioner, Peggy Engstrom, and the JANUARY FRIENDS OF SCOUTING 2008 district Unit Commissioners made a terrific Unit leaders, it is that time of year again where effort to assist all of our units. Thank you Peggy 8 District Committee 6:00pm we need to organize our efforts for the annual and Commissioner staff. Friends of Scouting fundraiser. 8 Roundtable 7:00pm SCOUTING FOR FOOD 19 Pow Wow for Cub Leaders The unit presentations are usually completed Donna Goodwin Nelson led our successful during Blue and Gold events for Cub Scout 19 Den Chief Training effort again this year. Over 5,000 pounds of packs and at winter or spring Courts of Honor food was redistributed to many needy Lake for Boy Scout troops. This is a very important County families. effort that all families need to be aware of. This FEBRUARY Thank you Donna and Lake County Units for opportunity comes once each year and offers your service project leadership. You are great ! 12 District Committee 6:00pm every family the chance to help the council maintain an excellent program at the most 12 Roundtable 7:00pm affordable price possible.

DISTRICT COMMITTEE/ CARNIVAL MARCH 8TH ROUNDTABLE Lake County Fairgrounds in Lakeport will District Committee Meeting and Roundtable again serve as the event location. All of your will meet the 2nd Tuesday of each month at favorite booths and activities will be there. Kelseyville Presbyterian Church, corner of Don’t forget about the opportunity to win a car. 3rd and Church St. The District meeting will Tickets will go on sale soon. Maybe you know start at 6:00pm and the Roundtable will start at of a hobby enthusiast that might be willing to 7:00pm. showcase some of the cool features of his or her hobby. This unit fundraiser helps fill your POW WOW unit treasuries and is a really terrific event. The Mt. Diablo Silverado more fun you put in it – the more fun your unit Council’s Pow Wow will get out of it! theme for 2008 is Cubs in Storybook Land. It will be held at St. Vincent/St. Patrick High School in Vallejo. You can register using the form in this issue, or online.

Remember that all Cub adults, both leaders and parents, are invited to Pow Wow. All kinds of classes are offered that will enhance many facets of your pack activities and meetings.

Don’t miss out on one of the best opportunities for training that the Council offers. Go to www. mdscbsa.org/powwow.php to register, or you can mail your registration form to the Council. Page 15

Marsh Creek Newsletter Serving Brentwood, Oakley, Discovery Bay and Knightsen

Striving District Executive VACANT to be a District Chairman Paul Krey 634-3276 [email protected] uality Vice Chairman Robert Passey 634-4496 [email protected] Q District District Commissioner Charles Fetterman 634-0868 [email protected] Come, learn how to celebrate the New Year in scouts turned out. Pack 93 had their own float your Pack with fun things to do, ceremonies entered in the parade. They also represented CALENDAR and more. Bring a craft or idea to share with Marsh Creek with a bang. others. JANUARY Thank you to the Unit Leaders for responding For more information about the Cub Scout to the call. We have proposed to march as a 3 OA Apanac Meeting 7pm Leader Monthly Roundtables contact Bill District in future parades. Any thoughts or Morganstein at 925-516-0126 . suggestions to bolster participation would be 5-6 Christmas Tree Pick-up greatly appreciated. Email Cindy Friedmann NEW BOY SCOUT RANK at [email protected] 10 District Commissioners mtg. 7pm REQUIREMENTS EFFECTIVE 10 District Roundtables 7:30 pm JANUARY 1, 2008 HELP US PLANT A GARDEN OF The National Youth Protection Committee NATIVE CALIFORNIA 12 Christmas Tree Pick-up recommended additions to Boy Scout rank Jan 12, (10am - 1pm) requirements that were approved and will Jan 20, (1 - 3:30pm 19 Council POW WOW become effective January 1, 2008. These Feb 17, (1pm - 3:30pm) 19 Council Den Chief Training changes will help us advance the importance Mar 15, (10am - 1:30pm) of Youth Protection training beyond the April 26 TBA 17 Eagle Review Board initial Boy Scout joining requirements, and keep youth informed and actively engaged in The Friends of Marsh Creek Watershed 24Dist. Committee Meeting 7:30 understanding the key elements of personal group need your helping hands! We need safety and protection. about a dozen people to help us begin a native plant demonstration garden. (All participants FEBRUARY TenderfootRank must sign a waiver form. A parent/guardian Revised requirement 9: Explain the importance must sign for each child.) 3 Scout Sunday of the buddy system as it relates to your personal safety on outings and in your neighborhood. Where?: Creekside Park, Brentwood 7 OA Apanac Meeting 7pm Describe what a bully is and how you should What to Bring or Wear?: Old clothes that can 14 District Commissioners mtg. 7pm respond to one. get dirty; close-toed shoes; sunscreen or a hat. Bring garden gloves or garden trowels if you 14 District Roundtables 7:30 pm Second-Class-Rank have them. And don’t forget your neighborhood New requirement 8b: Explain the three R’s of spirit! 21 Eagle Review Board personal safety and protection. 28 Dist. Committee Meeting 7:30 Water and snacks provided. First Class Rank PLEASE RSVP TO: Mary Grim at 28 District Key-3 Meeting New requirement 12: Describe the three things 672-6522x113 [email protected] you should avoid doing related to use of the 29-1 OLS Training Internet. Describe a cyberbully and how you OUTDOOR LEADERSHIP should respond to one. SKILLS TRAINING BOY SCOUT ROUNDTABLE OLS training is being offered Friday February For January RT, the Christmas Tree pickup The changes will be represented in the 2008 29th and Saturday March 1st . This is a required fund raiser will be critiqued and much more. Boy Scout Requirements book and the revised training for all Scoutmasters and assistants and Roundtables are to give help and ideas to ninth printing of the 11th edition of the Boy would be helpful for all Webelos, Crew and all Boy Scout leaders. Come and share your Scout Handbook. Team leaders where camping is part of their experiences about what has worked for you program. Contact Chris or Cindy Friedman and learn from others and maybe get some new HOLIDAY PARADE for more info. 925-634-5590 (h) or email to ideas. Contact Ron Rowell for more info. at The District Leaders put out the call for units [email protected]. Registration forms are 783-8419 to join Troop 90 Color Guard and Scouts to on the Marsh Creek district Yahoo site. You advertise the Marsh Creek District scouting may download them there. Cost $20, OLS will CUB SCOUT ROUNDTABLE program. Several Scout Packs and Troops be held at nearby Camp Fetterman. For the January Cub Scout Leaders roundtable combined their units to march in the Brentwood we’ll be discussing information and ideas about Holiday Parade. There were scouts from Pack the February theme of “Chinese New Year”. 155, 298, 90, 50, 21 and Troop 93, 90. In all 40+ Page 16

Meridian Matters Dist. Chair Jim Teare 828-0904 Membership Don Nelson 736-1792 Commissioner Earle Conklin 838-5440 Popcorn Rand Mahoney 964-1641 Executive Tim Welty 674-6125 Activities Yvonne Awai 648-9536 Advancement George Gavrell 837-6248 Smoke Signals John McClintic 930-7352 Camping Mike Dubrall 855-1148 R/T Commissioner Susan Oki 831-9380 Program Volunteer Needed Venturing R/T Alan Davis 736-0496 Camporee Mike Dubrall 855-0678 Scout R/T Al Nichols 829-7112 Scout Training John McClintic 930-7352 Cub R/T Joan Remmert Cub Training Arlene Zarate 277-0526 Eagle Boards Myron Hagen 831-1532 Finance Phil Kagel 736-9230 OA Advisor Mary Chong 830-0759 FOS VOLUNTEER Visit us on the web at NEEDED www.meridianmatters.org

uniform to show your pride in scouting. Plan ORDER OF THE on attending! Come see your local government ARROW CALENDAR in action. MOLUK APANUC JANUARY HEALTH AND SAFETY SAYS Our monthly Apanuc It’s cold weather camping time. Are you 3 Eagle Project Review Board meetings are the last ready? Winter days in the mountains give us Wednesday of each 9 District Committee some of the clearest most spectacular days and month at 7:00pm at the some of the best challenges. If we are lucky Toltec Cabana in San Ramon, for directions 10 Eagle Project Information enough to get some snow, all the landmarks contact Mary Chong at: 16 Roundtable we recognized in the summer days cannot be [email protected]. found. But a compass is always good. North 17 Eagle Board of Review never changes and that compass will get you HEY VENTURERS! 19 Pow Wow from here to there. The days are shorter so Every month all the Crew daytime plans need to be less ambitious. And Presidents, Crew Advisors and once the sun goes down it gets colder, faster. crew Committee Chairs are FEBRUARY Bring your layers, good meal planning is invited to come to the Venturing essential; be prepared for dramatic changes Leaders’ Association (VOA). 7 Eagle Project Review Board in the weather. But here’s the most important This group helps with the 13 District Committee thing to remember. There are hidden dangers running of the Venture program on a district when crossing ice covered waters. Lakes and level! We meet during Roundtable at 7:30 at the 14 Eagle Project Information rivers freeze with or without the snow. Some San Ramon Valley United Methodist Church lakes are in fact reservoirs and ice may not be 20 Roundtable 902 Danville Boulevard Alamo, California. resting on the water. With ice formation the For more information contact Justin Riordan 21 Eagle Board of Review water may be drawn off below leaving a space at: [email protected]. between the actual water level and the ice itself. NEXT ROUNDTABLE This makes a misstep or break-through even WE NEED VOLUNTEERS! Wed January 16 7pm San Ramon Valley United more dangerous. Be extra cautious if you are One of the strengths of our District is the Methodist Church, 902 Danville Blvd, Alamo. crossing an ice field. Always check with the long-time support of our volunteer committee Rangers before heading into the Wilderness. I chairs. We have several open positions to fill, NEW MERIDIAN WEBSITE wish you all another great year of scouting. especially Unit Commissioners. And we are www.meridiandistrict.net looking for replacements to bring new ideas Please note our new district website is hosted and enthusiasm to our leadership core. These by our new District Commissioner Earle are not supposed to be “lifetime” commitments. Conklin. Volunteers agree to serve for a fixed period of time, and then are free to move to other positions 2007 SCOUTING FOR FOOD or other activities. This is a great opportunity MERIDIAN DISTRICT for experienced unit leaders to move up and 33,785 LBS!!!!!!!! share their expertise throughout the District. Boy Scout Week at Danville City Council Wed Please contact Jim Teare Feb 6th On Wednesday February 6, 2008 at the 828-0904 for general inquiries and Earle Danville Town Council meeting, the Council Conklin 838-5440 [email protected] to will proclaim Boy Scout Week in Danville to volunteer to be a Unit Commissioner. coincide with National Boy Week. Scouts from Troop 236 will open the meeting with the Flag Ceremony. All Scouts will be recognized and we will receive an official Proclamation. This is a long standing tradition in Danville. Wear your Page 17

Muir Newsletter Chairman Stuart Mahler (925) 519-6957 FOS Family Al Limberg (925) 685-3791 Commissioner Rich Utter (925) 938-5491 Membership Mike Warriner (925) 229-9952 District Executive Joe Squeri (925) 674-6123 Merit Badges Piedad Fracasso (925) 673-0722 Asst Vice Chair Don Hamilton (925) 680-0745 Training Tom Santos (925) 672-5955 Advancement Mark Hall (925) 672-4277 Activities Bill Stanton (925) 372-8234 BS/Venturing Chair Bill Spalding (925) 825-6993 Scouting for Food Pam Smith (925) 674-6126 Day Camp Director Claudia Wathen (925) 586-8635 Smoke Signals Pam Smith (925) 674-6126 Day Camp Program Robin Alvarez (925) 458-5422 OA Advisor Larry Smith (925) 686-6994 Cub Roundtable Jennifer Rupert (925) 827-1412 Eagle Boards Linda DeVenney (925) 672-8545 BS Roundtable Kent Campbell (925) 432-5592 Eagle Project Derek Brown (925) 672-2055

Serving the Communities of Concord, Clayton & Martinez

with them. For more information, contact one SHOOTING SPORTS of our officers: MERIT BADGE CAMP CALENDAR Julian Houghtby - [email protected] The dates for this camp are September 12- ChrisJungenberg–[email protected] 13, 2008. This camp has proven to have JANUARY Lance [email protected]. unbelievable success with Scouts earning their 3 Roundtable shooting sports merit badges. Get it on your It’s OA election season, now through the end schedule now: it’s sure to fill up early next 17 District Committee Meeting of March 2008. We have already held some year! elections, but if your Troop hasn’t scheduled 19 Pow Wow one, contact Larry Smith at 686-6994 or Doug TROOP 465 CAMPFIRE FEBRUARY Williams at 768-6505. We will be happy to schedule an election for you. For more 7 Roundtable information about Order of the Arrow, visit our 21 District Committee Meeting website at http://WekWek.org. FOS KICK-OFF www.muirdistrict.org “Muir FOS Kick-off and training is scheduled for January 8 and 10, 2008 at Alhambra High MUIR DISTRICT School, E Street in Martinez. We will start MONTHLY ROUNDTABLE promptly at 7:30 PM and finish at or before 8:30 Troop 465 is having a campfire on January “Gung Hay Fat Choy! Happy Chinese New PM, guaranteed! For more information, please 14th at 7:30 PM. Location: Concord United Year! In February we welcome the year contact Al Limberg at 685-3791 or Methodist Church, 1645 West Street, Concord. 4706, the year of the Rat, and learn about [email protected]. All Cub Scouts and their family members are the cultures and traditions of China.” The welcome to attend. Dutch oven desserts will be January Roundtable theme is appropriately KEEP THESE 2008 DATES!! served. Please dress warmly and bring your called “Chinese New Year”. Find out what Camporee – April 18-20 own seating. Questions? Please call Roger other theme-related activities you can plan for Marksmanship Camp – May 10 McBride at 709-0909. your February den and pack meetings. Also, Shooting Sports M.B.Camp- Sept 12-13, learn about the Scholar and Engineer Webelos Scouting For Food – November 8-15 SCOUTING FOR FOOD activity badges. The January Roundtable will I would like to say “Thank You” to all who be on Thursday, January 3rd, 7:30 pm at the CAMPOREE participated. We can always count on our LDS Church, 1590 Denkinger Road, Concord. Camporee is April 18-20, 2008. Camporee district to do its best. The sign-in sheets at the Questions about Cub Scout Roundtable may is back and gets better every year! In 2008 Food Bank disappeared, so I am not sure which be directed to Jennifer Rupert at 827-1412. Camporee will be right in our back yard at units dropped off food there. If you did not Questions regarding Boy Scout Roundtable Sugarloaf Open Space in Walnut Creek. receive your certificate, please call 674-6126. should be directed to Kent Campbell at (925) 685-8607. MARKSMANSHIP CAMP SHARE WITH Marksmanship Camp will be held May 10, MUIRDISTRICT.ORG ORDER OF THE ARROW NEWS 2008. If you’ve earned your shooting merit Send the webmaster your unit contact Wek-Wek Apanuc has changed its meeting badges or just want to learn shooting sports information and meeting times and places, time and place to coincide with Muir District and see how well you can shoot, the Muir your unit photos, your Eagle Scout history, as Roundtable. We will meet on the 1st Thursday Marksmanship camp is for you. Based on the well as your web site address. of the month at 7:00 pm, at the LDS Church success by including Cub Scouts in archery in on Denkinger Road in Concord. Our next 2007, we plan to add BB rifles for 2008! Both of meeting will be January 3, 2008. Muir District these sports are great recruiting opportunities. Scoutmasters are strongly encouraged to come Troops be sure to invite Webelos to attend these to Roundtable and to bring their OA Arrowmen events with your Troop. Page 18

Chairman Paul Roberts Silver(707) 557-2215 GateMembership NewsletterPOSITION AVAILABLE [email protected] Camp Promoter Claude Smith [email protected] Commissioner Ken Lambert (707) 552-3485 Smoke Signals Nancy McCoy [email protected] [email protected] Popcorn Chair, FOS Eric Freeman (415) 317-5625 Dist. Executive James Rhodes-Dreyer (925) 674-6171 Silver [email protected] [email protected] Cub Scout Training Karen Coleman (707) 557 6763 Training Dave Eubanks 746-7175 [email protected] [email protected] Merit Badge Dean Diane Freeman Activities Claude Smith (707) 552-1196 Venturing Orrin Shackleford (925) 825-4053 Advancement Merrell Beckham (707) 554-0359 CS Roundtable Michele Speir (707)645-0231 Day Camp M. Bartholomew BS Roundtable Chuck Speir (707) 645-0231 OA Charles Skelton (707) 863-0385 OA Chief Sam Maffei 643-8312

to teach your scouts fair play and respect for up quickly. Register same as above. others in victory and defeat. Help them gain CALENDAR confidence by building their own pinewood RACE DAY derby cars. We will discuss what is involved Silver Gate 500 – the District Pinewood Derby JANUARY in a successful Blue and Gold Banquet for Cub will be held in the VFW Hall in Benicia on Scout Leaders. Webelos Leaders will cover the February 2nd. Since everyone had such a great 3 District Comm. Meeting Arrow of Light Award as well as the Fitness time last year, we are again inviting youth and UMC, 6:00 and Scientist Activity Badges. Cubmasters and their families from our local communities of 3 Roundtable 7:30-9:00, UMC Committee people we will discuss planning for American Canyon, Vallejo and Benicia to Pack Derbies as well as Pack Communication. participate as well as all Scouts from Tigers 4 Eagle Recognition Dinner Boy Scout Leaders: Join us in a discussion of through Venturers. For questions, times and 12 Race Day Clinic 1-4 Elks Lodge Webelos to Scout Transition. What is needed costs, please contact Mark Nichols, to make this a successful transition? How do 415-613-0727 or Claude Smith, 707-552-1196. 17 Commissioners Meeting UMC you prepare for new scouts coming into your unit? What contributes to a higher retention 19 Pow Wow EAGLE RECOGNITION DINNER rate of new scouts in a troop? All these question The annual Gold Scout/Eagle Scout recognition 12 Race Day Clinic 1-4, Elks Lodge and others will be asked and discussed at our dinner will be held on January 4, 2008. At the monthly meeting of Boy Scout, Venturer, Sea time this went to press, the price hadn’t been set. 24 FOS Coordinators Orientation Scout, and Varsity Scout Leaders. Please RSVP to the Elks Lodge at 642-1620 by December 26 so they know how much food to POW WOW prepare. Questions may be directed to Merrell FEBRUARY “Cubs in Storybook Land” is the theme for Beckham at 554-0359. All are encouraged to 1 District Comm. Meeting POW WOW 2008. What is Pow Wow? It is come to this dinner that honors all Boy Scouts UMC, 6:00 the annual Cub Training Event of who earned their Eagle Rank and all Girl Scouts the year! Pow Wow is a great opportunity to who earned their Gold Award during 2007. 1 Winter Holiday Party meet other Scouters, share ideas and have Cub 2 Race Day 12-4 Scout FUN! There will be classes in Crafts, FOS VFW Hall, Benicia Cooking, Games, Cub Scout Programs and It’s that time of the year again! The 2008 much more. It is open to leaders, parents, or Friends of Scouting (FOS) Campaign will be 9 Merit Badge Workshop any other involved adult. It will be a full day kicking off in February. We would like you 10 Scout Sunday of fun, inspiration, and ideas that will enhance to attend the Blue & Gold, Court of Honor, your Pack or Den programs. parents meeting, or any event in Feb. where everyone in your unit is in attendance with their Date: January 19, 2008. parents, to give a short presentation for the FOS UMC is the First United Methodist Time: 8am to 4pm. campaign. The Council gives us many tools to Church and is at the corner of Sonoma Location: St. Patrick/St. Vincent High School, help Unit leaders provide a quality program and Virginia St. in Vallejo. 1500 Benicia Rd. Vallejo. for our scouts, and this is our opportunity to Register online at: give them some assistance in return. Please let ROUNDTABLE NEWS www.mdsc-bsa.org/powwow.html Eric Freeman know ASAP the date/time and Cub Scout Leaders: We are changing things location of your event to around this month and covering the current Attention all Unit Leaders: Den Chief [email protected]. month’s theme. Join us in the theme for January Training will be held at POW WOW. Send your “Cub Scout Car Show”. Come get ideas for Boy Scouts to this great training that will help your January Den and Pack meetings. We will them to fulfill troop leadership requirements, sing songs, play games, do a few activities, and earn the Den Chief Award, and most discuss where to go on field trips. Have you held importantly to help them to work effectively a Pinewood Derby in your unit? Let’s discuss with their selected Cub Scout Den Leader. Pre- some ideas to make it a success. Explore ways registration is recommended as this course fills Page 19

VENTURE YOUTH LEADERSHIP COUNCIL

Advisor Jane Harris 510-222-5125 [email protected] Staff Advisor Tim Welty 925-674-6125 [email protected] Associate Advisor Marion Rice 707-422-9478 [email protected] Associate Advisor John Ricketts 707-422-4731 [email protected]

TRAINING QUESTIONS February 9, 2008 at Camp Herms in El Cerrito, If you have any questions you can contact CALENDAR CA from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., the council anyone at the top of this page. Venturing training team will be holding JANUARY 2 trainings: Venturing Leadership Skills AWARDS 9 VYLC Meeting Course (VLSC- youth training) and Venturing Hey Venturers! If you don’t know about the Leadership Specific Training (VLST- Adults). venturing advancement, you should look at These two trainings are open to all Venture the Venturing Handbook. The awards offer so FEBURARY youth and leaders as well as those youth and many opportunity for learning and perfecting adults looking to start Venture crews. The your skills in sports, hobbies, religion, outdoors, 9 VLST/VLSC Training Course at VLSC will cover leadership styles as well as the leadership, and even seamanship! The highest Camp Herms crew officers briefing, crew officer’s seminar, award in Venturing is the Silver Award, and this and how to elect crew officers. The VLST is the year only 2 people got their silver award. Next adult training that is required for all Venturing year hopefully more people will get the Silver NEXT VYLC MEETING leaders and will also cover the Ranger Award, Award, and the VYLC is willing to help out! On January 9, 2008 all of the presidents of the Quest Award, Trust Award, and Silver Award. At the training on February 9, the VYLC will crews in the council will be coming together to If you have any questions please contact Jane also be discussing the Venturing Advancement share ideas on how to run their crews. At this Harris or Marion Rice. system. If you have any questions please contact meeting we will also be discussing a council Jane Harris or Marion Rice. wide venturing event. So all you Advisors, and ROUNDTABLE Presidents out there, mark your calendar and Does your district have a Venture Roundtable? we will see you on January 9th at 7:00 PM at If not we are looking for Venturing Scouts who the Council Service Center! are interested in starting District Roundtables. At these Roundtables, you can put on venturing WHO SHOULD ATTEND supplemental trainings, activities and games, THE VYLC and have consultants come to teach skills; All elected youth officers in the council have outdoor, arts and hobbies, sports, religious, all rights, privileges and are standing members sea scouts, etc. If you are interested in learning on the VYLC (Venture Youth Leadership more about what you can do to start a venture Council). All advisors and committee chairs roundtable, please contact Jane Harris. are also invited to attend. Anyone who is interested in learning more about Venturing or starting a Crew are also welcome. Page 20

NEW EAGLES

Jeremy Craig Baker Crew 0028 Willy Trejo Gan Troop 0081 Nathan Hymas Stark Crew 0028 Ryan Benjamin Hull Troop 0514 Ryan Van Patchen Troop 8482 Erik Christian Blumst Troop 8864 Andrew John Zaslove Troop 7091 Samuel Barrett Jackson Troop 7051 David Wyn Allen Troop 0201 Benjamin Alexandre Tirapelli Troop 0159 Charlie San Pedro Martin Troop 0341 Darryl Yuet-Mann Lieu Troop 0234 Stephen Sanborn Hamann Troop 0243 Andrew Thomas Balczewski Troop 0243 Sami Bassam Alahmadie Troop 0246 Scott Henry Hampton Troop 0243 Benjamin Michael Kolnowski Troop 0243 Thomas Hendrick Christ Crew 0793 Scott Edward Yost Troop 0093 James Brennan Park Troop 0093 Alexander Heng Jun Lam Troop 1630 Jacob Joseph Mintz Troop 0084 Zachary Daniel Harris Troop 0093 Andrew Brockmann Armstrong Troop 0874 Pranay Ramesh Manghirmalani Troop 0815 Curtis Phillip Paul Troop 7091 James Nichols Carter Crew 0494