Page 1 September 2020 The Blackhawk

COURIERA Publication of Blackhawk Area Council It’s Popcorn Time! Virtual Corn and Contactless Sales Options The 2020 Fall popcorn sale has kicked off and will continue through Online Sales the end of October. For leaders of the popcorn sale, it is never too late to We also understand that you may personally not want any face-to-face get your Pack, troop, crew orExplorer post involved in the sale. Simply go contact for your child at this time. To that end, Trail’s End has offered a to blackhawkhub.org and search popcorn or click on the popcorn banner robust online sales and rewards program for Scouts that can all be done to learn how. by sharing information online through social media, emails, and more; and allows the to track their sales through the Trail’s End app (or For leaders online) and see their sales and rewards in real time. Scouts can redeem As a reminder Trail's End booked storefronts for the Council that you their rewards at any time and will receive an email with an Amazon gift can reserve through the leader website. Just login and go to Storefront card that they can use to buy any prize they desire! (with permission, of Reservations. For each date during the sale that there are sites available course). you will see a blue store icon. Click on the icon to view sites available for that day. This list of course is only a help as they have already committed Door Hangers to hosting a storefront sale. However, if you know of a location that does The Council has also developed a door hanger for Scouts, much like not appear, please contact Melinda Johnson at the Council for a certificate that used for for Food. The Scout fills out some brief information of insurance at that location. on the door hanger and then can go door to door, but with no face-to-face contact necessary, and leave the hanger on a door for a customer to go to For parents the online store using the Scout’s seller code or other option of contact. We want you to know that Trail’s End and the Blackhawk Area Council have the Scout’s safety at the forefront of our minds as we Thank You navigate this year’s sale. The Council currently covers two states and two While this may not solve every challenge or situation, we hope these different regions in so areas may have varying safety guidelines provide some additional options for our Scouts and customers alike to during the sale. We will continue to monitor each region’s set of health continue to make popcorn a success and provide the funds to continue guidelines and direct our leaders and Scouts of any additional concerns our programs. Thank you to all the parents, leaders, and Scouts who work for things like storefront and door-to-door sales should anything change. hard to make sure Scouting continues during these most unique of times.

Index of Special Articles 3 Council Calendar 15 Religious Emblem Resources 4 Silver Beaver Nominations Due November 1 18 ScouTober Is Coming! 4 Tee Off for Scouting (Golf Outing)S 18 Fishing Merit Badge Course 5 U. S. Grant Pilgrimage 19-20 Friends of Scouting 7 Planning Resources 21-22 Training 7 Results 23-25 Camp News 8 Camp Trading Posts Open 26-28 Sycamore District News 8 Rifle and Shotgun Merit Badge Days 29-32 Wanchanagi District News 8 Hike at Canyon Camp 33-34 White Eagle District News 9 Family Camping 35 Wetassa District News 9 Sporting Clays 36 Arrowhead District News 10 ATV Safety Course 37 Rank Boxes 11 Scouts BSA Resources 37 Scoutober! 12-13 Safety Page 2 Membership Fee September 2020

2020 BSA National Membership Fees

ANNUAL MEMBERSHIP FEE

EFFECTIVE EFFECTIVE

AUGUST OCTOBER FOR ALL FOR ALL RENEWING NEW MEMBERS 1 MEMBERS 1 2020 2020 (RECHARTER)

Participants in kindergarten through age 20. $ 66/YR

$ Participants age 10 - 20. 42/YR

All registered adult volunteers in unit $ and non-unit positions. (Volunteers with

Boy Scouts of America

Boy Scouts of America

ica Boy Scouts of America 42/YR Boy Scouts of Amer multiple registrations will continue to pay for only one position).

NEW-MEMBER JOINING FEE

EFFECTIVE ONE-TIME Same flat fee no matter when you join during AUGUST $ the year. (no prorating) New members pay 1 25 joining fee in addition to 2020 TO JOIN membership fee.

No joining fee for adult volunteers, Exploring participants, participants previously registered in any BSA program, or those transferring from one program to another.

UNIT RECHARTER FEE

EFFECTIVE

AUGUST $ 75/YR 1 For all new and 2020 rechartering units. Page 3 Council News September 2020 2021 Traditonal Unit Charter Renewal Fee Chart January - December 2021 Charter Renewal Paperwork to Units in October; annually At Charter Youth Membership Adult Membership Youth/Adult Unit Renewal Boys Life Subscription Renewal Fee: Fee: Insurance Fee: Fee: (Optional): (January): $66 $42 $8 $75 $12 NEW enrollments during the month of ($25 new member fee +):

$60.50 $38.50 $0.00 $0.00 $11.00 February $55.00 $35.00 $0.00 $0.00 $10.00 March $49.50 $31.50 $0.00 $0.00 $9.00 April $44.00 $28.00 $0.00 $0.00 $8.00 May $38.50 $24.50 $0.00 $0.00 $7.00 June $33.00 $21.00 $0.00 $0.00 $6.00 July $27.50 $17.50 $0.00 $0.00 $5.00 August $22.00 $14.00 $0.00 $0.00 $4.00 September $16.50 $10.50 $0.00 $0.00 $3.00 October $11.00 $7.00 $0.00 $0.00 $2.00 November $5.50 $3.50 $0.00 $0.00 $1.00 December

Council Calendar September 2020 October 2020 November 2020 10 Roundtable 3 Sporting Clays, Camp Lowden 1 Silver Beaver Nominations due 12 Sporting Clays, Camp Lowden 3-4 ScouTober, Session 1 3 Courier deadline for December issue 18-20 Family Camping at Camp :Lowden 4 Popcorn Blitz Day 7 Scoutology Day (Training) 19 Rifle and Shotgun Merit Badge Day, 6 Courier deadline for November issue 11 Veteran’s Day Camp Lowden 9-11 Family Camping, Camp Lowden 14 Okpik, session 1 21 Golf Outing, Poplar Grove, Illinois 10-11ScouTober, Session 2 26 Thanksgiving Day 26 Rifle and Shotgun Merit Badge Day, 10 Rifle and Shotgun Merit Badge Day, Camp 26-27 Council service center closed Camp Lowden Lowden 25- October 31 – U.S. Grant Pilgrimage 12 Columbus Day 17 Camp Lowden Fall Work Day 17 ATV Safety Training 17-18 ScouTober, Session 3 23-25 Family Camping, Camp Lowden 24 Rifle and Shotgun Merit Badge Day, Camp Lowden 24 ATV Safety Training 24-35 ScouTober, Session 4 31-Nov. 1 ScouTober, Session 5 Page 4 2021 Silver Beaver September 2020

2021 Silver Beaver Nominations Due November 1, 2020

The is the highest award that the Blackhawk Tips for Completing the Nomination Form Area Council can bestow upon a volunteer. The purpose of this • Keep your nomination confidential. The person you are nominating prestigious award is to give recognition to those special volunteers who, should not be aware that they are being nominated. by the test of time, have shown dedication to the high ideals of Scouting • Start early to gather information through outstanding service to youth and to their community. • Contact the nominee’s District Key 3 to get information on the If you know of such a person, please complete the Silver Beaver district level of your nominee’s involvement at the district level. If Nomination Form. A person cannot be selected unless he or she is a nominee has the District Award of Merit, find out who nominated nominated. The nominee must be an active, registered Scouter in the person and get information on the person’s participation at the the Blackhawk Area Council, and active in both his/her church and district level. community. • Get in touch with their “home” unit for information on training A lot of information is required about the nominee’ Scouting and taken and positions held. community involvement, so start the process early. • Contact the person’s OA chapter for dates of OA and Vigil Honor recognitions. To fill out the nomination form you will need: • What religious organizations is the person involved with? Your - Name, address, phone, email, unit, scouting position, council, • Talk to spouse or other family member – but explain the importance and district of confidentiality of the nomination. • Other than Scouting, what otheractivities has this person been The nominee’s - Name, address, phone, email, spouse’s name, involved in. For example, food pantry, civic clubs, school board, employer, occupation, scouting unit & position, council, district, local community activities, etc. history of scouting positions: Unit level (nit, position, dates held) • What are this person’s hobbies? Is this person a merit badge - District level (district, position, dates held) - Council level counselor for that hobby? (council, position, dates held) - Community / Other Organizations • Give your contact information to everyone you talk to – they may (organization, position, dates held). think of something else later. • Look on Facebook, Linkedin, and Twitter. You may find additional Lastly in each section you will have the opportunity to share information about them. instances of outstanding leadership held at each level. • Create a contact list of everyone you contacted. If they think of something else, they can contact you. If this person is not selected, * Except for the field asking for the nominee’s name, please do you have a good starting point for next year! not use their name in any of the other sections. Each application is • Be sure to complete all sections of the nomination form. Save a judged on its own merit and anonymously by the committee. copy of the nomination form for your records. Incomplete forms Use only the Blackhawk Area Council Silver Beaver Nomination will be returned with suggestions to the nominator to be completed. Form - Do not use the National nomination form. It will be returned to the nominator. Be sure to fill out all areas of the nomination form. Incomplete nomination forms will also be returned to the nominator to Tee Off For Scouting! be completed. Monday, September 21 Check-in begins at 11:00 a.m. Please email Emily Cross, Blackhawk Area Council Program Tee off is 12 Noon Director with any questions at [email protected] Timber Pointe Golf Club in Poplar Grove, Illinois Click here for the Silver Beaver Nomination Form https://docs.google.com/forms/d/ e/1FAIpQLScv9DWsGATecwxoTZ6- Join us for the Blackhawk Area Council Golf Outing on Monday, 9k7aCoAQXn8hfgziFx0HNoqwkzUYsw/viewform September 21st ! Get an afternoon off for a cause and come support the 2020 outing at the beautiful Timber Pointe Golf Club in Poplar Grove, https://www.blackhawkhub.org/posts/55532/2020-silver- Illinois. The golf outing includes numerous games on the course, a free beaver-nomination-submission-now-open drawing for a main prize, and auction drawing during dinner. Tee off as at 12:00 p.m. with check-in beginning at 11:00 a.m. After the outing, join us for burgers, brats, and beverages. Numerous sponsorship are available on our registration site below. Please also note, per health guidelines, we have a limited number of space available for this event and will have a maximum of 60 golfers. Now is the time to register to save your spot! To find more information and to register, please visit https://blackhawkhub.org/posts/54554/2020-blackhawk-area- council-golf-outing. We hope to see you out on the course! Page 5 U.S. Grant Pilgrimage September 2020

2020 U.S. Grant Pilgrimage Rescheduled and Enhanced! 2020 U.S. Grant Pilgrimage Hybrid Event!

Due to the constantly changing Covid-19 situation the U.S. Grant If your unit is already registered for the Pilgrimage, we will be Pilgrimage is moving to a Hybrid Virtual event. A unit or family has sending you a link to the virtual hybrid event. If you unit would like two options to participate in the event. Units or families could decide to be a part of the 1st Hybrid U.S. Grant Pilgrimage, please register at to visit Galena, take the trail hike, and answer the questions through a blackhawk.ihubapp.org/posts/52962. smart phone, or answer the questions in your community while making You will receive the link to the event in your receipt email. your own hike. Another advantage to this format is the Pilgrimage hybrid site More specifics and videos are being worked out and will be shared will be up till the end of October -- meaning the Pilgrimage can be as information becomes available. done on any time that works best for a unit or family. If your unit is already registered for the Pilgrimage, we will be Something to consider – if a pack, troop, or crew has a few new sending you a link to the virtual hybrid event. If you unit would like members, the Pilgrimage is a great way to knock out a number of to be a part of the 1st Hybrid U.S. Grant Pilgrimage, please register at requirements. We have a listing of requirements that can be met, blackhawk.ihubapp.org/posts/52962. with a little planning and visiting Galena for the Pilgrimage or You will receive the link to the event in your receipt email. staying in your community and taking the hike. If your unit has reserved camping through Canyon camp, or one of Trail Hike our partnering locations, you have 3 options. You can choose to have The Pilgrimage Trail Hike map will be posted online from September your camping refunded, your unit can choose to rollover your camping 1st to October 31. fees to 2021 Grant Pilgrimage registration and reserve your camping The Trail Hike map will be posted online with the answer locations now, or you can chose to have your camping fees designated as an FOS and linked to video of the answer signs. Scouts will fill answers into a gift to help support the Blackhawk Area Council continue the mission of google form. Completed trail hikes will still receive a medal. We still Scouting during these ever changing and challenging times. highly encourage units to make the trip to Galena and take the hike, but We are all excited about this new opportunity and the FIRST EVER you can also hike in your hometown. Hybrid Grant Pilgrimage!

History Hunt Online registration has been updated – click here to register your The traditional Galena Generals will be part of the Hybrid Pilgrimage unit. as well! Stars will be on the map at the Generals’ locations and they will be linked to videos of the Generals’ speeches so that you can enter Who can attend? answers in the Google form. Cub Scouts, Scouts BSA, and crews (youth and adults) their families and friends!

Updates Cost? - $12 for event registration . The Pilgrimage event Patches and Trail medals, along with your unit’s order, will be shipped to the contact person in the unit registration. Events for the Historic 1st Ever Fall Grant Pilgrimage We are also working on a location to pick up patches and medals in • Historic Trail Hike Galena when the Hike is finished as well. More details to come. • History Hunt (with the Galena Generals) • Grant’s Home and Washburn House We also have new trail opportunities with the Jo Daviess county • Galena Historical Museum Conservation foundation to visit the Effigy Mounds at Casper Bluff • Blacksmith shop preserve. This trail connects a walking/biking path that runs along the Galena River. This is an additional 7-mile round trip– perfect for Scouts New Activities the Historic First-Ever Fall U. S. Grant Pilgrimage BSA Scouts needing a longer hike to meet requirements. • Hike new trails to Casper Bluff Land and Water Reserve for a special program and visit to There will be a video from the Galena Historical Museum, our • Effigy mounds on the Reserve. This is a 5-mile hike, more details Traditional Crafters, Grant’s Home, and a special Ghost of Galena to come. presentation. As more information becomes available it will be posted here. More specifics and videos are being worked out and will be shared as information becomes available. Any questions? Please contact Matt Ohms at matt.ohms@scouting. org or [email protected] Page 6 Events September 2020 Volunteer Recognition (From Advancement News, September-October 2019)

Human beings of all ages love recognition. We might not always want to admit it, or we might think some recognitions are silly, but we still want to be recognized for a good effort or a job well done. Research and leadership theory backs that up. • The Gallup Organization says one of the most important elements of a successful team is when a member answers “Yes” to “Have I received recognition or praise for doing good work?” • One favorite learning organization, the Disney Institute, says: “Recognition can be empowering, often propelling people to higher levels of engagement.” • The psychology blog Exploring Your Mind says, “If we are September 12, 2020 recognized and respected, our self-esteem blossoms. But be careful! Just as we accept it, it is also essential to know how to offer 7:00 a.m. to 4 p.m. recognition to others.” Camp Lowden 4418 S Scout Rd, , Illinois Baden-Powell recognized the value and importance of recognition Enjoy a morning or afternoon (first come, first serve) of shooting for youth, e.g., badges of merit, as well as adults, e.g., a wooden bead on and supporting Scouting in the process! This will be our second year a leather thong, in Scouting from its earliest days. The founders of the at the new course on our beautiful BSA summer camp property, Camp Boy Scouts of America followed this concept, too. Lowden. Most of us are well aware of the elements and importance of youth We want you to know we have your safety as our highest concern recognition, but at times we forget the value of adult recognition. As and will have carts wiped down and proper PPE available if needed. advancement and recognition leaders we really need to make an effort to recognize our volunteers for their efforts. And, since many volunteers SPONSORSHIP AND REGISTRATION are not seeking recognition, other volunteers might have to be the ones who make it happen rather than let it happen or hope it happens. To Register Online go to Blackhawkhub.org and search for Sporting Recognition is the “psychic paycheck” we seek when we volunteer. Clays or Text “lowdenclays” to 844-615-4269 It keeps volunteers motivated and, in the case of recognition for units such as the Journey to Excellence, it helps to promote a good feeling Mail in your registration: by printing the SPONSOR AND among Scouts, leaders, parents, and the chartered organization regarding REGISTRATION FORM and mail to Blackhawk Area Council, their Scouting program: “WE are a Gold JTE Unit!” Attn:Rockford Sporting Clays, 2820 McFarland Rd, Rockford IL 61107 • Do you make sure training and service awards are applied for and presented to deserving Scouters in Questions? Contact Emily Cross at [email protected] • your unit or units? • Do you have an intentional plan for soliciting nominations for the All proceeds benefit local Scouting programs District Award of Merit, Silver , and even Silver Antelopes, of the Blackhawk Area Coucil and Distinguished or Outstanding Eagle Scout Awards? • Do you present some of these awards in public, or do you present them in private? Or worse – by mail? Banquets, pack meetings, courts of honor, and service area meetings are great venues for recognition. Use them or create events in your service area to Staying Safe During Covid-19 facilitate recognition. From the Council Enterprise Risk Management Committee Furthermore, when volunteers who contribute in an outstanding way Tips for staying safe during Covid-19. are recognized, we as advancement and recognition leaders who helped • Avoid touching your face as much as possible. to make it possible, feel good too. We might not be the ones who get that • Practice proper hand washing: certificate or square knot, but we know we played a role in making sure • Wash your hands with soap and warm water for at least the right person did – and in seeing the good that will likely happen in 20 seconds. Singing 'Happy Birthday' to yourself takes the future because of the recognition. approximately 20 seconds. Section 3.0.0.0 of the Guide to Advancement has some points on • Do this often during the day. Pay special attention when using how you can recognize youth and volunteers. You can also find valuable a public washroom which often has a lot of bacteria on the information about the multitude of BSA awards available on Scouting. faucets. When you are at the sink, wash your hands with warm, org on the Advancement and the Awards-Central pages. soapy water while singing “Happy Birthday” to yourself. Be Make sure you remember to recognize! sure to get between your fingers, fingertips, and thumb. Turn the water off with a paper towel. Use this paper towel to open the door to leave, then dispose of the paper towel. That's how you properly wash your hands. • Wear a mask whenever you leave your home. • Practice social distancing at all times.

Following these tips will keep us all safe. Page 7 Council News September 2020

Download These Planning Resources for Your Next Scouting Year From Bryan on Scouting, August 6, 2020

This year has been hectic, to say the least — disrupted schedules, efficiently. Boys’ Life, the premiere magazine for kids and teens, has cancelled campouts and constant adjustments have become the norm. Any provided these resources to Scouters for years. resource to help you keep track of changes and plan accordingly would Many of these resources have been integrated into Scoutbook, the be welcomed. BSA’s advancement tracking app. The app offers a suite of easy-to-use, web-based tools that are helpful to both Scouts and leaders. Say no more. Boys’ Life magazine offers free downloadable calendars, Go to Bryan on Scouting for August 6, 2020, for the full list of notebooks and charts to help you Be Prepared and continue Scouting available resources on Facebook as well as outside of Facebook.

Virtual Pinewood Derby Results Races are complete and results are in!

Thank you to everyone that registered to race, and those volunteers that helped make it happen. Special thanks to: Balsis Awards & Engraving, Culvers of Galena, Culvers of Winnebago, Montel Technologies, Raven Light Artistry, Scout Shop (Crystal Lake and Rockford)

Video Links to Races Photo Gallery of Pinewood Derby Cars – coming soon • Cub Scouts - Lion (Kindergarten) - https://youtu.be/zP1RkNFMzpc • Cub Scouts - Tiger (First Grade) - https://youtu.be/A7QTjpJs7z0 • Cub Scouts - Wolf (Second Grade) - https://youtu.be/1RNchC8Mdak • Cub Scouts - Bear (Third Grade) - https://youtu.be/cOvo2oy3_mQ • Cub Scouts - Webelos (Fourth Grade) - https://youtu.be/udc8IRuYgxg • Cub Scouts - Arrow of Light (Fifth Grade) - coming soon • Scouts BSA / Venturing (Sixth Grade & older) - coming soon • Non-Scouts (ages 17 years old and below) - coming soon • Adult Scouter (ages 21 years old and above) - coming soonP Page 8 Council News September 2020

Camp Trading Posts Canyon and Lowden online trading posts are now OPEN! https://blackhawkhub.org/posts/55285/canyon-lowden-online-trading- Rifle and Shotgun posts-are-now-open Merit Badge Days! Some of your favorite camp gear is now available to purchase Miss out on shooting this summer? online! Click on link above to see all the cool gear! What would you Come on out to Camp Lowden! like to purchase? https://blackhawkhub.org/posts/55277/rifle-shot-gun-merit-badge-days Would you like to pick up your order at camp? Check out these AWESOME opportunities to get out to camp! Come out for a day of shooting and earn your rifle and shotgun merit badges!

What to bring: BSA Health form parts A&B Water Sunscreen Pre-filled blue card Sack lunch Merit badge workbookRifle Rifle and Shotgun merit badge books Pen or penc NOTE: Rifle and Shotgun merit badge books You can borrow them from your troop library or purchase the books from the Scout Shop or download the e-book version to your device. Please note that if you are bringing an electronic copy of the merit badge books please be sure to download them on your fully charged device as we cannot guarantee internet connection or access to electricity for charging.

Hike at Canyon Camp! *Please note – in an effort to lessen contact for everyone's safety there will not be the ability to share any equipment or merit badge books. Welcome to Canyon Camp! Come on out and hike with your pack, troop, or the family for the Provided: day! • Eye protection (yours to keep) For $5 you will receive a color Canyon Camp trail map with hiking • Ear protection (yours to keep) requirements to keep track of your achievements and for your memories • Firearms made at Canyon Camp! • Ammunition Once you have completed the trail you will receive the Canyon • Targets Camp trail patch. Certified instructors will be on the range. You can start your visit on your schedule and either set a goal to hike a trail or enjoy your time at any pace you would like. Optional Cowboy Action experience! When you arrive you can park in the camp parking lot and check in For $15/person any registered youth twelve (12) years or older with with the campmaster to receive your map. When you have completed parent signed waiver (MUST be parent or legal guardian signature NOT your visit, check out with the campmaster for your patch. a unit leader). Access the Cowboy Action Waiver HERE Click on any of the dates below to register. We’re excited to see you at Canyon Camp! Rifle and Shotgun Merit Badge Days Pick your Hike Day! September 19, 2020 October 10, 2020 https://blackhawkhub.org/posts/55279/hike-at-canyon September 26 2020 October 24, 2020

More dates to come!

Would you like to make a weekend visit out of your Hike Day? Would your family like to make a camping weekend out of Reserve a campsite as a family. See details at “Family Camping” this merit badge opportunity? Reserve your family's campsite here: Family Camping opportunities! Page 9 Council News September 2020

Family Camping at Canyon and Lowden Now Blackhawk Area Council is opening camp to all families for weekend camping! Sporting Clays at Camp Lowden https://blackhawkhub.org/posts/55195/family-camping-canyon- Registration Now Open! lowden Sporting Clays @ Lowden!

Come out in a group or as as individual to experience our beautiful We are excited to get everyone back out to camp! sporting clays course made up of report pairs and true pairs that will For the time being the State of Illinois Health Department has only engage a first-time shooter and challenge any experienced shooter opened up camping for individual households / families. nestled in a beautiful forest setting. Need to unplug? Just get outside? Bring the family out to Canyon Our clays course is open to our Scouting membership and we are Camp or Camp Lowden for the weekend! open to the general public! hike • Cost - $35 per shooter stargaze • All targets are included play games (bring your own yard games etc. or • Firearms are not provided make up your own family games) • Ammunition is not provided explore • FOID card # and expiration date are required at time of enjoy a campfire registration Firewood provided • Any shooters under the age of 18 is required to be accompanied Flush restrooms available by a parent or guardian. and so much more with your family! • Alcohol is not permitted Individual families are welcome to reserve a site and enjoy camp! • Individuals welcome! $50 per weekend for the family! Click on Your Preferred Date To Register Please note that for the safety of everyone while at camp we September 20, 2020 require that October 3, 2020 • social distancing is observed at all times • face coverings are in each person’s possession should there be any Please contact Emily Cross with any questions: instance where social distancing is not able to be maintained. [email protected] or 815-397-0210

Choose your camp, your weekend, and your site! There’s no limit to the amount of life-long memories and fun you can create on a family camp-out! Canyon Camp Camp Lowden Click Here for Canyon Map Click Here for Lowden Map Sept 18 - Sept 20 @ Lowden Sept 25 - Sept 27@ Lowden Oct 9 - Oct 11 @ Lowden Oct 23 - Oct 25 @ Lowden

Come and Share Your Favorite #ScoutSummer2020 Moments

Use #ScoutSummer2020 on Instagram for a chance to be featured on boyslife.org and later in the magazine! From https://boyslife.org/scoutsummer2020/ Page 10 Council News September 2020

Camp Lowden Looking for ATV Safety Courses September 19, 2020 Click here to register! Properties Chair October 24, 2020 Click here to register! Position Concept Who: Youth 14 years of age and older and adults! The Camp Lowden Properties Chair is responsible for overseeing Time: 12 noon to 6 p.m. the following – all of Camp Lowden except for the Boeger Leadership Location: Camp Lowden, 4418 S. Scout Rd., Oregon, IL 61061 Lodge Cost: $25 This is a volunteer position. Reports to: Council V.P. of Properties. Prerequisites / Must have items The Camp Lowden Properties Chair is responsible for overseeing • Bring a signed ATV Consent and Release form; which can be the following – all of Camp Lowden except for the Boeger Leadership found HERE for each individual under 18 years of age attending. Lodge. This is a volunteer position. • Bring a signed ASI COVID-19 liability waiver; which can be Reports to: Council V.P. of Properties. found HERE, for anyone attending • Completion of the online course prior to the date of the class. Primary Responsibilities Access the online course HERE • Be the “eyes and ears” of all things property related at Camp. • Bring your completion certificate, from the online portion, with • Facilitate Capital and Maintenance projects for the Camp. you to the course. • Lead Camp Lowden Properties Committee and hold meetings as • drinking water necessary. • long pants • Pro-actively communicate with the Camp Lowden Properties • long sleeved shirt Committee, the Staff contact, and the VP of Properties to keep • closed toe over the ankle boots everyone up to speed on any issues or needs. • sun screen • Organization of work days at Camp. • bug spray • Overall organization and maintenance of equipment and facilities. • Snacks as there will be no meals / food provided. • Monthly routine maintenance (i.e. furnace filters, fire extinguisher renewal, report any wear and tear / damage that needs attention, Equipment provided and to keep up on all supplies (paper products, cleaning supplies, • These items will be provided for you OR you may bring your own etc) pending instructor's inspection • Organize scheduled cleaning service. • A D.O.T approved helmet • Coordinate with the Risk Management Committee for semi-annual • Goggles or a face shield (if your helmet doesn't already have one). inspections & any updates to Emergency Procedures. • Gloves • Work with the Risk Management committee to ensure safety at camp. Course capacity: 6 students • Work with the Summer Camp Program to ensure the camp is ready to run. • Work with NCAP to adhere to NCAP standards etc. Contact Miki with questions: [email protected] • Report to Council V.P. of Properties each month on each property.

If you are interested in this position please contact Jake Dykstra at 815-985-3664 or [email protected], or Emily Cross at [email protected]. Page 11 Council News September 2020

Swimming Requirements Camping Merit Badge The coronavirus pandemic has slowed many Scouts from advancing The coronavirus situation has also resulted in Scouts being unable to Second Class or First Class because of the inability to complete the to complete the Eagle-required Camping merit badge, specifically associated swimming requirements. Swimming remains a major health requirement 9b. and safety concern and cannot be abandoned by Scouts BSA. Requirement (9b) On any of these (Scouting) camping experiences, With that in mind, the following Swimming rank requirements may you must do TWO of the following only with proper preparation and be deferred until each Scout's next rank, as necessary (through Life, but under qualified supervision: not Eagle): • Hike up a mountain, gaining at least 1,000 vertical feet. • Second Class requirement (5b) Demonstrate your ability to pass • Backpack, snowshoe, or cross-country ski for at least 4 miles the BSA beginner test: Jump feet first into water over your head in • Take a bike trip of at least 15 miles or at least four hours. depth, level off and swim 25 feet on the surface, stop, turn sharply, • Take a non-motorized trip on the water of at least four hours or 5 resume swimming, then return to your starting place. miles. • First Class requirement (6a) Successfully complete the BSA • Plan and carry out an overnight snow camping experience. swimmer test. • Rappel down a rappel route of 30 feet or more.

This temporary deferment will allow Scouts to advance in Although this requirement adds “Scout fun” to a camping experience, rank up to, and including Life Scout, but not beyond. All other rank it will be temporarily suspended as a requirement for Scouts to earn requirements must still be earned to advance. When conditions warrant this badge. All other Camping merit badge requirements must still be and upon direction from the National Council, these requirements will completed to earn this badge. Upon direction from the National Council, be reinstated with 30 days’ notice to our Scouting family via Workplace, requirement 9b will be reinstated with 30 days’ notice to our Scouting Bryan on Scouting, Scouting Wire, social media, and any other means family via Workplace, Bryan on Scouting, Scouting Wire, social media, determined appropriate. and any other means determine appropriate. For clarity, the following swimming requirements can be completed on dry land and are not a hindrance to advancing: Eagle Scout Extension Process The Guide to Advancement (GTA) continues to serve and guide Camping Merit Badge Scouts, adult leaders, and councils on the proper reasoning and • The coronavirus situation has also resulted in Scouts being unable procedures for extending the deadline for competing all work toward to complete the Eagle-required Camping merit badge, specifically the rank of Eagle Scout beyond the age of eligibility. Currently, Scouts requirement 9b. Second Class requirement (5c) Demonstrate may apply to the National Council for extensions as outlined in the GTA water rescue methods by reaching with your arm or leg, by (section 9.0.4.0). reaching with a suitable object, and by throwing lines and objects. To assist Scouts during the ongoing pandemic, local councils have • First Class requirement (6e) With a helper and a practice victim, been twice granted the authority to extend the time-frame, for up to show a line rescue both as tender and as rescuer. (The practice three months each time (now totaling a possible 6-month extension) to victim should be approximately 30 feet from shore in deep water.) complete all work only for the rank of Eagle. This was done to eliminate any potential delays in the normal process. The authority for councils to Rank advancement requirements identified in the COVID-19 FAQ grant these extensions is currently scheduled to expire September 30, may continue to be completed by Scouts by using video conferencing 2020. through December 31st, 2020. We will reevaluate the COVID-19 Local councils will now be given authority by the National Council policies before the end of the year. Please continue to monitor the to grant an additional three-month extension, which will end December COVID-19 FAQ found on Scouting.org for any updates. 31st, 2020. During this time, the National Council will evaluate permanently allowing councils the ability to approve Eagle/Summit/ Quartermaster extensions beyond the age of eligibility of up to six months. This would make it no longer necessary for local councils to forward those requests to the National Council. If it is determined to permanently grant councils the six-month extension authority, and having our Scout’s best interest at heart, Scouts would still be able to appeal to the National Council should their local council not approve their extension request.

Printable PDF Scouts BSA COVID19 Updates 8/26/20

COVID Eagle Extensions Page 12 Safety September 2020 Activity Planning and Risk Assessment Policy Regarding Prohibited and Unauthorized Activities The Boy Scouts of America’s Charter and Bylaws, Rules and Regulations, policies, and program guidelines help provide a safe and consistent program. Council and unit charters as well as individual registration are conditioned upon adherence to those requirements. Adult volunteer leaders and units that allow youth or units to engage in prohibited or unauthorized activities in contravention of program requirements, and leaders who fail to take steps to stop any such activities, put Scouts and the organization at risk. Only leaders possessing the educational, emotional, and moral qualities necessary for leadership are permitted to register and serve as Scouters. Actions which put youth or the organization at risk call into question the suitability of a Scouter for leadership. If it is determined that Scouts were allowed to participate or engage in unauthorized or prohibited activities, a leader’s registration and/or the unit’s charter may be subject to adverse action, including revocation. Some activities considered by youth and leaders are not compatible with the Scouting program. Some have unacceptable risks that have been confirmed by serious or even fatal consequences. Others are not compatible with the Scout Oath and . The activities listed below are strictly prohibited as part of any Scouting program. The list is not comprehensive, but it serves as a definitive list of prohibited activities and it offers a broad sense of what is not allowed as a Scouting activity. Scouting leaders should refer to this list when deciding on activities, and they should reflect vigorously on how any activity outside our published program would resonate with the Scout Oath and Scout Law. The Boy Scouts of America prohibits the following activities (with exceptions in italics):

Prohibited Activities (Effective October 1, 2019) The Scouting program incorporates common activities such o Inappropriate ammunition such as pumpkins, hard slingshot as swimming, climbing, cycling, archery, and snowboarding that, ammo, and tracers depending on the details, may include both real and perceived risks to o Canons exception: council camp ceremonies, which must participants. Those risks are managed by BSA policies, procedures, and follow the BSA’s guidelines for cannon use) guidelines that set limits and incorporate specific features such as safety o Crossbows (except at the Summit Family National equipment or qualified supervision. Guidance is provided by, but not Scout Reserve) limited to, the Age-Appropriate Guidelines for Scouting Activities , Safe o Reloading ammunition, and using reloaded ammunition Swim Defense, Safety Afloat, Climb on Safely, Belay On , and the BSA (except at ) shooting sports program. Activity components outside of BSA program o Spears, including atlatls, pole spears, and spear guns (except guidelines are prohibited as follows: at Philmont Scout Ranch) 1. Nonadherence to the Scouter Code of Conduct 8. Open or concealed carry or use of firearms at any Scouting activity, 2. Any activity that is not aligned with the current Age-Appropriate with the following exceptions: Guidelines for Scouting Activities o Law enforcement officers who are required to carry firearms 3. Aquatic activities that fail to comply with Safe Swim Defense and/ within their jurisdiction or Safety Afloat o Use as part of an official BSA shooting sports program 4. Activities related to COPE or climbing that fail to comply with o Appropriate hunting in Venturing Climb on Safely and/or Belay On . This includes activities on 9. Extreme or action sports and associated activities that involve an courses that are not constructed to comply with standards set by the unusually high degree of risk and often involve speed, height, a Association for Challenge Course Technology (ACCT) and/or are high level of exertion, and specialized gear or equipment. These not inspected annually for integrity. activities include but are not limited to 5. Flying—use of hang gliders, ultralights, experimental aircraft, or o Parkour nontethered hot-air balloons, or flying in an aircraft as part ofa o Cliff diving or jumping search-and-rescue mission (exceptions: transportation to Scouting o Whitewater paddling on rapids rated Class V or above events by commercial airlines; flying or tethered hot-air balloon o Tree climbing flights following completion of the Flying Plan Checklist ) o Free or solo climbing 6. Motorized vehicles used as program or activities—including all- o Aerobatics while snowboarding, skiing, wakeboarding, or terrain vehicles (ATVs), off-road vehicles, motorized personal mountain biking watercraft (PWC), and motorized speed events (exceptions: council- o Parachuting, BASE jumping, or wingsuiting approved ATV and PWC programs that comply with National Camp o Parasailing or any activity in which a person is carried aloft by Accreditation Program [NCAP] standards ; go-karting conducted a parachute, parasail, kite, flying tube, or other device at a commercial facility that provides equipment and supervision of o Participation in amateur or professional rodeo events, council cart operation; youth completing the Motorboating merit badge) or district sponsorship of rodeos, and use of mechanized bulls 7. Shooting or throwing sports outside of BSA program literature and or similar devices (This restriction does not apply to bicycle guidance. Examples of prohibited activities (with exceptions in safety rodeos.) italics) include: o Jumping with bungee-cord devices (sometimes called o Anvil shooting, flintlocks, exploding targets, and devices shockcord jumping) regulated by the National Firearms Act o Bubbleball, Knockerball®, zorbing, Battle Balls™, bubble o Blow guns, boomerangs, and ballistae soccer, bubble football, and similar orb activities where o Homemade firearms and air cannons, potato cannons, and participants collide or roll around on land or water. tennis ball cannons o Throwing of shovels, torpedoes, spikes, or stars (Continued on next page)

Page 13 Safety September 2020 Prohibited Activities (Continued) When an Incident Happens From the Council Enterprise Risk Management Committee o Flyboarding/jet-boarding o Highlining Do you know what an incident is? Do you know what to do when o XPOGO an incident occurs? Do you know what a near miss is? Read on for the o Trampolines and trampoline parks (exception: commercial answers. facilities that meet or exceed current ASTM Standard F2970- 15) What is considered an incident? Loosely defined, a health 10. Use of accelerants, chemicals, or pyrotechnics to start fires and safety incident is any unplanned event that results in harm to an or in ceremonies (exception: solid fire starters designed and individual, property, or the environment. Examples include injuries manufactured for this purpose) (ranging from minor to life-threatening), outbreaks of food borne 11. Using homemade or modified equipment that fails to comply with illnesses, vehicle accidents, property damage, the closure of a program the BSA Chemical Fuels and Equipment policy area because of safety concerns, and the death of a Scout or volunteer. 12. Burning any solid, liquid, gel, or gas fuel in a tent—including tents Use the Incident Reporting Tool (No. 680-016). or teepees that feature or support stoves or fires 13. Activities where participants strike at each other, including martial What is a near miss? A near miss is an unplanned event that doesn't arts, boxing, combat games, gladiator games, and reenactment result in injury, illness, or damage but had the potential to do so. An activities such as live action role-playing games (LARP) and example of a near miss is a Scout getting lost at camp and your calling Society for Creative Anachronism (SCA) activities (exception: tai for emergency response. Use the Near Miss Reporting Tool (No. 680- chi) 017). 14. Activities where participants shoot or throw objects at each other, such as rock-throwing, paintball, laser or archery tag, sock fights, Why should we report incidents? To ensure that the organization or dodgeball can respond in an appropriate manner and be prepared to handle any 15. Service projects that fail to comply with federal, state, or local ensuing allegations or claims. Incident reports also help the BSA develop laws regarding the safety of youth (For more information, visit policies to prevent future occurrences. www.youthrules.gov and www.dol.gov/general/topic/youthlabor/ hazardousjobs/ ) What if the incident involves allegations of child abuse or 16. Use of power tools by youth, including chainsaws, log splitters, inappropriate behavior? Use the Youth Protection/Membership wood chippers, and power saws or mills (Youth may use age- Infraction Incident Information Form (No. 680-676) to gather data. Note appropriate tools following tool manufacturers’ guidelines.) that this form contains confidential information and must be forwarded 17. Use Exploration of abandoned mines directly to the Scout Executive as soon as possible. 18. Fireworks, including selling of fireworks (exception: fireworks displays by a certified or licensed fireworks control expert) If I report alleged child abuse to the BSA, do I still need to report 19. Water chugging, and eating or drinking competitions such as it to the authorities? Yes. You must still follow your state's mandatory “chubby bunny” or hot dog eating contests reporting requirements. 20. Hunting (Venturing crews may conduct hunting trips, and councils may host special adult hunting expeditions provided that all Complete the Incident Report Online. Go to https:// participants have obtained necessary permits and/or licenses bsapublicintakeportal.secure.force.com and complete the report. from state or federal agencies and have completed a hunter safety On our council website go to the “Health and Safety” tab, then scroll education course.) down to “Incident Reporting.” There you will also find PDF versions 21. Intramural, interscholastic, or club sport competitions or activities that can be printed and taken with you to write down the particulars. It can also be found in the appendix of the Guide to Safe Scouting. Please review Prohibited Activities FAQ’s if you have any questions. You can use this Safety Moment on prohibited activities to help In all cases, complete the Incident Report online. explain the policies at your meetings. Go to https://bsapublicintakeportal.secure.force.com/ and complete the report. On our council website go to the "Health and Safety" tab, RESOURCES then scroll down to "Incident Reporting." • Program literature including handbooks, merit badge There you will also find PDF pamphlets, and leader guides • Prohibited Activities FAQs: www.scouting.org/health-and- safety/prohibited-activities-faqs/ The “Scouts First Helpline” phone number is 844-SCOUTS1 (844-726-8871) Page 14 Council News September 2020 Fond Farewell to the Blackhawk Area Scout Shops Are Open Council From the Desk of Dane Boudreau and Ready to Serve! That’s right! We’re happy to announce that the Rockford and Crystal It may come as a surprise to Lake Scout Shops are now open with modified operating hours, to help many of you, but my last day with the further your Scouting adventure! Over the last several weeks, we’ve Blackhawk Area Council was Friday, been working hard to implement enhanced safety measures that make August 28th. My wife, Victoria and I, yours and our team members safety the top priority! are taking the next step in our journey Effective immediately, you’ll notice the following changes upon and are relocating to entering our location: to pursue other avenues. • Hand sanitizer is available for customer use in all Scout Shops. At the time of my exit, I worked • We’ve implemented rigorous cleaning routines throughout the day almost 7 years for the Blackhawk and have temporarily closed fitting rooms. Area Council and nearly 10 for the • Prior to beginning every shift, all team members must complete an Boy Scouts of America. Employee Health Screening to ensure they are ready and able to I would like to thank all of the volunteers I have worked with work safely. throughout my time in Blackhawk. I feel lucky to have had the • Every team member is provided with facial coverings to use during opportunity to learn and grow in my position and meet some truly their shifts and are asked to frequently wash their hands. fantastic people along the way. I always tell people that the best part • Social distancing markers are placed in every Scout Shop. of my job is how many great people I get to meet and work with; and • All product returns are being disinfected or quarantined for five in many cases, develop friendships with. Scouting volunteers are truly business days before returning to the sales-floor. amazing and I will miss the passion and dedication that shows through • Cash will NOT be accepted as a form of payment until further on a daily basis. notice to limit the risk of spreading germs. We will continue to Unfortunately, things happen quickly and I didn’t get a chance to accept Credit/Debit Cards and Checks. reach out to everyone and say “see you later,” but I enjoyed working • We have updated our payment systems to need fewer signatures with all of you and wish you all the best of luck in your lives moving and to accept contactless pay to include Apple Pay, Google Pay, and forward. Hopefully I will see you again and wish you the best on your Samsung Pay. Scouting adventures! • Plexiglass sneeze guards are installed at checkout points, in areas of Sincerely, the country where required. Dane Boudreau • Limited occupancy regulations will be in place in compliance with state and local requirements.

While not mandatory in every Scout Shop, we respectfully request you to follow social distancing and safety protocols recommended by public health officials, including wearing a facial covering when visiting our stores to help protect yourself and our team members.

There’s a new way to shop in our stores. • Now that we are open, we are very excited to announce that we’ve redesigned our in-store shopping experience with your safety and convenience as our main goal. th • Effective today, you can purchase any of our 600 Cub Scouts and 12 Point of the Scout Law Scouts BSA advancement=related products online and have the order gathered, bagged, and set aside for you to either pick up in- Work on Your Religious store or by contactless curbside, or have the items shipped directly to you! Emblems • Looking ahead, we will continue to evaluate and modify our safety measures and in-store experience with you and our team members Calling all Scouts! Remember the 12th point of the Scout Law – you in mind. In the meantime, we’re taking this seriously so we can get it got it – Reverent! right. We cannot wait to welcome you and our Scouting community Reverence is an important part of Scouting and for all ages! In fact, back to our Scout Shop! there are several awards that one can work on and you can find these by looking at www.PTAYpub.org. After you know what book you need, call the Scout Shop and order it or pick it up if they have it in stock. You might need the mentor book also for your parents or religious leader to help you. Parents, now is the time to encourage your youth to work on th+eir awards. What a treasure it is to spend time talking to your own youth. If you have any questions about the awards or process, contact Mr Broman (Mr B) and he can help you. His email is [email protected]. God Bless, Mr. B Page 15 P.R.A.Y. News and Religious Emblems September 2020 P.R.A.Y. Extends Eligibility in Catholic Response to COVID -19 Extension Deadline: December 31, 2020 Religious

Recognizing that church and Scout meetings have been suspended, Emblems P.R.A.Y. has adopted the following policy to ensure that young people Ad Altare Dei do not miss the opportunity to earn their P.R.A.Y. emblem while Pope Pius XII maintaining eligibility for the Four-Star Award: The Blackhawk Area Council Catholic Committee on Scouting will At the request of clergy and counselors, a special eligibility be starting classes for Ad Altare Dei (AAD) and Pope Pius XII (PPXII) extension is in effect until December 31, 2020. This means that students via Zoom. Due to not being able to be in a classroom at this time or not who are eligible for a program based on their current grade level in having a counselor in your area, I am personally inviting all Catholic March 2020, will still be eligible to earn that award until the end of this Scouts in our wonderful Blackhawk Council that fit in this age group to calendar year, December 31, 2020. Instead of aging out of a program join us on Zoom. in the fall when starting a new grade at school, the P.R.A.Y. extension will allow young people to complete their requirements until December Ages for each class: 31, 2020. Ad Altare Dei is for Scouts entering 7th-9th grade. We also know that with time at home for spring breaks and self- Pope Pius XII is for Scouts entering 10th-12th grade. quarantines, trying to maintain health, there is a good chance you will be battling cabin fever. Below you will find information and resources We will be starting these classes via Zoom with a parent meeting from P.R.A.Y. to engage Scouts and their families in faith formation. I on Wednesday, July 22, from 7-8:30 p.m. Classes will start Wednesday, hope you will find them useful in your own ministry. August 5, from 7 to 8:30 p.m. This shall be fun and very interesting this P.R.A.Y. is grateful for the many churches and volunteers who help year and we ask parents to help by keeping their Scouts on task. young people grow in faith and earn their religious emblems. You are We plan on the retreat September 18-20, 2020, at Camp Lowden. needed for such a time as this! We pray God’s presence be a source of If we are unable to be there for the weekend, save the date as we are comfort and strength both to you and to the young people with whom working on another idea. you work. Please send me an email with interest and I will send the invite to Jason Noland, P.R.A.Y. CEO you for Zoom. My email is [email protected]. All Scouts need to complete Cyber Chip and show proof of that prior to starting also. 30-Day Challenges Younger Scouts in grade school can work on their awards with their parents and visit with their priest to complete the award. They can work In an addition to the video series on YouTube, we are pleased to as a den or individual but it will be much more fun as a group. Encourage introduce 30-Day Challenges for every P.R.A.Y. Program level. When your youth to work on their awards! Please call or email me with any completed according to the prescribed schedule, with the help from a questions. parent or counselor at home, youth can complete the requirements and God bless, share with their family the work toward achievement of their religious Cindy Chiodin emblem. Visit each program's challenge below. Jesus and Me 30 Day Challenge God and Me 30 Day Challenge Religious Emblems Class God and Family 30 Day Challenge God and Church 30 Day Challenge As we start another Scouting year, now is the best time to start God and Life 30 Day Challenge earning your religious emblem. Here is a great opportunity to do so! The PRAY Religious Emblem Programs are being hosted by the St. Barnabas Lutheran Church in Cary, starting September 20th. Religious Retreat Earn your religious emblem and exercise your Duty to God. Learn about God’s importance in family and community while earning patches, Postponed Until 2021 badges and awards recognized by Scouting. All are welcome to participate, regardless of what church you belong It is with great sadness to announce that the Religious Retreat has to. The Youth Director at St. Barnabas will guide you and your child been cancelled this year due to Covid 19. Please watch the calendar for through the program with fun monthly activities and service projects next years date in September 2021! tailored for specific age groups. In the meantime, please work on your religious awards! Please call Lessons coordinate with numerous Christian faiths. Members of if you would like to know how to get started! other churches are welcome to participate. If you are a unit leader or a parent and would like someone from our Badges/awards are earned upon completion. For more information committee to visit your troop/crew or pack to explain the awards, please or to register for the program, email [email protected]. let one of us know! You can also get additional information by visiting https://www. God bless praypub.org/pray . Cindy Chiodini, 815-543-8404, [email protected] Chris Walneck Mr. B, – 815-218-5514 Religious Emblems Coordinator Page 16 Council News September 2020 Membership for a New Challenge

Recruiting new families to Join Scouting is vital for the continued success of the Scouting Program and more importantly to serve the youth in our communities and prepare them to be successful community minded adults. With our current situation navigating the pandemic it is more important than ever to promote Scouting through social media. Visit the membership channel on the Blackhawk.ihubapp.org. Downloadable images are available to use in your recruiting efforts. Join Cub Scouts If your unit does not have a Facebook page, it is important to Joining Cub Scouts Benefits the Whole Family and Creates take some time to make one and begin promoting Scouting in your Adventure! community. Even during unprecedented times, Cub Scouts benefits families by Beascout.org is also another website interested families are directed providing: to learn more about scouting. There is search function based on Zip • Positive family time codes, all units are listed. It is vital to update your unit’s Pin so interested • A Community of Support families in your community can find your unit. • Self-confidence and Resilience Development Cubmaster / Scoutmaster, committee chair, and charter • Life Long Skills and Memories representatives have access to update the Beascout.org pin. This must be • Activities to look forward to including (but definitely not limited done through your my.scouting.org account and is under organizational to!): manager. • Pinewood Derby Races If you have any questions on how to do this, contact your District • Day Camp Fun Executive. • Adventures in historic Galena, Illinois, with other Scouts and their families “Ask a Friend” recruiting. • So much more! Share Scouting is our current theme for recruiting more youth. Interested in joining the fun? Each Scout who recruits a friend to join will receive this patch. Please visit the membership channel for the Google form to submit the names Click on https://beascout.scouting.org/ to Join Cub Scouts of youth that recruit a friend. Make sure all the families in your unit Check out this fun page – https://blackhawkhub.org/posts/52890/ know about this program. scouting-from-home-resources – for at-home activities that you can do And, hey, Scouting is more fun if your friends are in it with you. with your family right now! Sign-up here on our Hub to get all of the latest information on programs being offered. Take a look around! Welcome to Cub Scouts and Blackhawk Area Council! Page 17 Council News September 2020

Schedule for all Internet Couriers

All Couriers will be internet only. The deadline for Internet Journey to Excellence Scoring editions will be the first Tuesday of each month. The latest schedule Will Be Adjusted in Light of is shown below.

COVID-19 Deadline + Type Months Covered Web Target Date Oct. 6 – Internet November through January October 20 When you planned a big spring event for your pack, troop, crew or ship last year, you weren’t counting on a global pandemic disrupting Nov. 3 –Internet December 2020 through November 20 everything. February 2021 The same can be said about the volunteers who created the 2020 Dec. 1 – Internet January 2021 through December 8 Journey to Excellence scorecards. March 2021 Journey to Excellence, often shortened to JTE, is a self-evaluation tool that lets unit leaders see, quantitatively, how well their unit is meeting the goals of Scouting. JTE scorecards are updated each year to reflect feedback from unit leaders like you. (Want an overview of JTE? Read our explainer here.) “We made certain assumptions in creating the JTE standards,” says Neil Lupton, chairman of the BSA’s National Assessment and Evaluation Committee. “Those assumptions fail in the face of the coronavirus.” That’s why the committee has announced that it will re-evaluate and revise JTE requirements once the coronavirus threat is diminished and the country’s path forward becomes more clear. “As always, JTE should be helpful and encouraging to all in Scouting,” says Jeff Rand, Lupton’s professional counterpart on the committee and leader of the BSA’s performance management team. Blackhawk Area Council Scouting Isn’t on Pause Hours, Phone, Address While JTE requirements will need to change for 2020, it’s worth Staff can be reached via email. See district rosters. noting that Scouting itself hasn’t been paused during the lockdown. It’s been truly inspiring to see Scouts continue meeting, serving Phone number: others and having fun while everyone is at home. And the BSA’s brilliant Council office 815-397-0210 Scouting at Home initiative, developed in a matter of days, gives families Web Site: www. BlackhawkHub.org exciting, meaningful activities they can safely enjoy at home.

But some JTE standards cannot realistically be met during stay- National Scout Shop -- Rockford: 815-637-6180 at-home orders — at least not as written on the scorecard. That’s why Address: 2820 McFarland Road, Rockford IL 61107 Lupton and his fellow volunteers are planning to revise the standards Scout Shop hours: once it’s reasonable to do so. The Scouting at Home activities you’re 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., Monday through Friday doing now will meet many of those new requirements. Closed for lunch 2:30 to 3:00 p.m. “In the interim, units, districts, and councils should use the Journey Saturday and Sunday closed to Excellence standards in addition to other planning tools, but all should be tempered with realism and with the need for safety for all,” National Scout Shop -- Crystal Lake: 815-479-0615 Lupton says. “As far as revisions to the Journey to Excellence standards Address: 600 N. Rt. 31, Crystal Lake IL 60012 or changes in the requirements for gold, silver and bronze, it’s premature Scout Shop Hours: to make any such decisions.” 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday Closed for lunch 2:30 to 3:00 p.m. 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday Sunday closed Page 18 September 2020 Do a Good Turn Daily From “Bryan on Scouting” November 12, 2019

Compared to the Scout Oath and Scout Law, and even the (“Be Prepared”), the Scout Slogan might be the least-known official BSA “saying” outside of the BSA. But those five words – “Do a Good Turn Daily” – area fundamental part of Scouting’s DNA. Scouts might participate in service projects every month or recite the Scout Law every week, but those Good Turns are meant to happen every single day. That’s a Good Turn every 24 hours - or 365 of them each year. How big of an impact is that? Consider this: If all 2.2 million youth members of the BSA did their Good Turn every single day, our movement would complete 803 million Good Turns every year! That’s Fishing Merit BadgeREGISTER ON about 2.5 Good Turns for every single person living in the United FOUR LAKES DOUBLEKNOT States. That’s an impact people feel. Fishing goes all the way back to Scouting’s founder, Lord Baden- Powell,Sept who 12 said, 19that “every& 26 Scout; Oct ought 3 to be ableWHAT to fish TO BRINGin order to Fishing pole/rod But what counts as a Good Turn? get food for himself. A tenderfoot (beginner) who starvedBait on the bank of7am a river full – of11am fish would look very silly, yet it Luresmight happen to one Completing a Good Turn every single day might seem daunting. Face Mask who had never learned to catch fish.” True to Baden-Powell’sWater words, the What if I’m sick? What if it’s snowing? What if I’m busy with school, Snack sports, or life? Fishing merit badge seeks to teach those very skills. Signed Blue Card As Scouters, we can help Scouts remember that Good Turns don’t BAUMANWanchanagi PARK District is offering a series of sessions for Scouts BSA youth to select. Scouts BSA youth need only to selectPARENTS from OR GUARDIAN one of the have to be giant service projects. Required to stay Start by facilitating a discussion at your next meeting about availableSept options 16 - below. 6:30 Space pm is limited due to social distancing so what makes a good Good Turn. (This could be a future topic for a please register soon. NEED TO FINISH UP A Cubmaster’s Minute or Scoutmaster’s Minute, as well.) Cost: $5 per youth PARTIAL-WELCOME TO ATTEND PLEASE Your Scouts or Venturers might decide that a Good Turn could be What to Bring: REGISTER something as simple as: • Fishing pole/rod bait

• Holding open a door for someone who has their hands full • lures face mask • water snack • Asking someone who might be having a bad day if they want to talk • signed Blue Card (please contact merit badge counselor in • Picking up a piece of trash that someone else left behind advance if you need assistance with supplies/equipment)

A tradition of Good Turns Session Options: You have to go all the way back to issue No. 4 of Scouting magazine Option 1 | Register – https://blackhawkscouting.doubleknot.com/event/ to find the first reference to the Scout Slogan in that publication. In the fishing-merit-badge-wan1/2729357 June 1, 1913, issue, Scouting called the Scout Slogan “the very heart Saturday, September 12 | 7:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m. and life of the organization.” Four Lake Forest Preserve (10207 Fish Hatchery Rd, Pecatonica “To live for others is one way to get real joy out of life,” Scouting wrote. Option 2 | Register – https://blackhawkscouting.doubleknot.com/event/ Scouting in 1916 reminded readers that effective Good Turns can fishing-merit-badge-wan2/2729372 Wednesday, September 16 | be “little Good Turns.” 6:30 p.m. Baumann Park (300 S. Walnut, Cherry Valley 10207 Fish “A bunch of little Good Turns soon make a big difference in the Hatchery Rd, Pecatonica general atmosphere of any community.” Option 3 | Register – https://blackhawkscouting.doubleknot.com/event/ `Practice what we preach’ fishing-merit-badge-wan3/2729373 As leaders, Scouting magazine in 1913 put it on us to “practice Saturday, September 19 | 7:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m. what we preach.” If we do, Scouting magazine tells us, our Scouts Four Lake Forest Preserve (10207 Fish Hatchery Rd, Pecatonica “will acquire the habit of thoughtfulness for others which the world needs today.” Option 4 | Register – https://blackhawkscouting.doubleknot.com/event/ And that kindness the world needed back in 1913? Yeah, we still fishing-merit-badge-wan4/2729375 need it today. Saturday, September 26 | 7:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m. Take a moment to think about what Good Turns you might inject Four Lake Forest Preserve (10207 Fish Hatchery Rd, Pecatonica into your life. Chances are they’ll be a little different from the ones your Scouts will come up with, such as ... Option 5 | Register – https://blackhawkscouting.doubleknot.com/event/ 1. Letting another driver go first at an intersection fishing-merit-badge-wan5/2729376 2. Paying for someone else’s meal or coffee at the drive-thru Saturday, October 3 | 7:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m. 3. Spreading encouragement online by leaving a positive comment Four Lake Forest Preserve (10207 Fish Hatchery Rd, Pecatonica or reply Page 19 Friends of Scouting September 2020

2020 Friends of Scouting Invest in Youth. Invest in Character. Invest in Leadership.

How Do We Meet Our Pack, Troop, Or Crew Goal? 1) Hold a Family Friends of Scouting Presentation at your Blue & Gold Banquet or Court of Honor a. Your Unit leadership will be contacted by a District volunteer or staff member to schedule this presentation. We will train a volunteer to come and deliver a presentation during your event to give all families an opportunity to participate in the giving program and explain where the money goes.

2) Council Email Invites to your group a. Council will send an invite to your Blue and Gold or Court of Honor for all emails currently in our database from your Unit. b. If your Unit has an invite list; it can be sent to Council and they will send a nice email inviting your families to your event, including a link to online donations, a link to the Friends of Scouting video, and providing more information prior to the presentation on your behalf. c. Excel List is preferred but any is acceptable. Send to [email protected]

3) Matching Gifts a. Many companies will match a donation by their employees to a non-profit. Matching gift letters will be provided at your presentation, but this is a great way to help reach your goal by doubling your gift. All you do is present the letter to your HR or Payroll and mark it on your pledge card.

4) Follow up and Regular Correspondence with Your Families a. Not everyone will donate at your event, but, if sent reminders will donate if asked directly. The Council will help follow up with donors/ families but it is faster and better received if they receive a contact from a Unit Leader helping to reach the goal.

Digital Presence - An easy way to help family and friends donate

5) Unit Online Donation Platform a. Every Unit that holds a presentation will be given a unique link to an online donation platform. This can be used at any time throughout the year and during the presentation if a family is more comfortable donating online. This allows the gifts from your families to be credited to your Unit goal and will be included with any email invites. b. This is what our Unit Banners look like: i. When navigating to donate online, your families and donors will be able to see a thermometer with your Unit Friends of Scouting Goal.

6) Facebook Fundraiser through Blackhawk Area Council a. Through the Blackhawk Area Council Facebook page, any person can set up an online fundraiser to help reach their unit Friends of Scouting goal.

7) Facebook Birthday/Anniversary Fundraisers a. It is now the norm that instead of people asking for gifts for their birthday/anniversary, they will post a Facebook fundraiser for their favorite non-profit. This can help your campaign greatly because many people will donate because of the connection with their friend or family versus the organization itself. If you do not know how to setup a Facebook fundraiser, or set up an email with a link to your Unit Banner, please contact your District staff member for assistance. We thank you for your commitment to Scouting and helping raise the needed funds to continue to support our local programs serving over 12,000 youth annually in 12 counties! Page 20 Council News September 2020

Blackhawk Area Council James E. West Pledge Card

Please choose a level of commitment: ____$1000 ____$5000 ____$10,000 ____ $15,000 Donor Information and Affiliation: In Memory/Honor of ______Name ______Pledge Signature ______Address ______City ______State ______Zip ______Email ______Make a Gift That Date ______NEW - James E West _____ EXISTING: Please add to Lasts a Lifetime my James E West Account Have you ever thought about a financial gift to Scouting that lasts a _____ Send Me Information on Endowment Events lifetime? In addition to donating to Friends of Scouting each year, which _____ Send Me Information on Endowment giving - Gifts can be is absolutely necessary for the council to operate; there are other ways to given over a period of time. donate that will create a financial pipeline in perpetuity for our council _____ Send Me Information on Will Services and Scouting programs and help us “Scout Our Future.” It is our Council Endowment Committee’s goal to be able to fund Method of Payment and Billing Schedule: all of our council program expenses through the interest generated _____ Cash from our Council Endowment. This goal is not something that can be _____ Check # ______completed in a single year, but a goal our entire Scouting community (Make payable to Blackhawk Area Council) must take on together to achieve. _____ Visa _____ Master Charge _____ American Express _____ Credit Card # ______Exp. Date ______Specifically, _____ Bill Me: _____ Monthly _____ Quarterly _____ Our Mission: “To provide ongoing financial support for Scouting programs in the Blackhawk Area Council” Annually ______Name on Card ______Our Vision: “To ensure that Scouting in the Blackhawk Area Council is gratis from perennial, financial constraints in perpetuity” CSV# ______

So What Is an Endowment?

An endowment is a fund held to provide interest and dividend Guide to Safe Scouting earnings for the benefit of a charitable cause. Ultimately, it is alife preserver that generates income each and every year for our council. “Be safe” is one of the watch words of Scouting. According With a gift to the Council Endowment Fund, you are supporting Scouting to Former Michael Surbaugh, “the BSA is throughout your lifetime and beyond. committed to safety.” He charges each of us to commit ourselves to Unlike Friends of Scouting, your donations are held in a restricted creating a safe and healthy learning environment. It behooves all of us to fund, meaning only the interest and dividends earned from your gift can keep this charge in mind every time our Scouts get together. The Scout’s be used for council support each year. What this means is that if our parents entrust their children to our care and expect them to be safe, endowment grows large enough, the Blackhawk Area Council will be secure, healthy, and happy. able to improve its programs, cut costs for programs, and overall be free Our definitive guide to safety in all of our Scouting activities is from the constraints of financial hardships. the Guide to Safe Scouting. It has a great deal of information on a wide There are several recognitions for Endowment gifts and different range of topics. Every Scouter should be familiar with this guide and types of gifts that can be accepted such as cash, estate gifts, charitable should check it regularly. remainder trusts, and much more. I invite you to read more about this The Guide to Safe Scouting can be found at http://www.scouting. great way to make a lifetime impact to the Blackhawk Area Council by org/Healtandsafety/GSS.aspx. visiting www.blackhawkscouting.org/scoutingourfuture The online version is updated quarterly. A PDF version is also Should you have an interest in donating to our Endowment or have available for download. questions, please contact the council service center any time at 815-397- Be sure to check the guide for the latest changes before any outing 0210 and someone will be happy to assist. or event.

Not all learning happens in the classroom. We are equipping young Americans for life. Page 21 Training Talk September 2020 New Video Series Delivers the Ultimate Den Leader Experience Updated Youth

By now, you’ve probably caught word of Scoutbook’s Den Leader Protection Training Experience, the free web app that makes it easier than ever for den leaders to prepare for and lead meetings, track advancement and attendance, and more. So, how could preparing for a den meeting possibly get any The updated online and facilitator-led (face-to-face) Y01 Youth easier? Protection Training have been released. Leave it to the Scoutbook team to find new ways to streamline and Updates include a new learning plan as well as a Spanish-translated simplify the den leading process—because they’ve now introduced a version of the training. Previous versions of the facilitated training are video series to help you navigate the Den Leader Experience app and get obsolete. Do not use them. YPT Champions can get a link to the new the most out of this terrific new tool. facilitator materials from their Scout executive. Based on the top questions the Scoutbook team received since the YPT training must be current through December 31, 2020 to be launch of the Den Leader Experience, these videos were created in the rechartered with your unit in Blackhawk Area Council. That means that spirit of continuous improvement. The video series uses quick, to-the- it could not have been taken before December 31, 2018.” point snapshots that will help any den leader get started, whether you’re Both the English and Spanish Youth Protection facilitator-led a tech novice or an app aficionado. courses have been released to council Scout executives. From home screen how-tos to den invitations, check out the list To further your knowledge in protecting youth, we have released below to see how these videos can offer you the best Den Leader additional recommended online training modules covering the following Experience possible. You can also find all 16 videos at Scouting.org/ Youth Protection topics: DenLeaderTips. • Physical abuse Dashboard: Meetings: • Emotional abuse Accessing Your Account Understanding the Calendar View • Neglect Navigating the Main Pages Editing Your Calendar • Impact of violence in the home Taking Training Taking Attendance Finding Resources Preparing for the Next Meeting Roster: Selecting Your Den Finding Parents Setting Up a Den Finding Your Scouts New District Inviting a Leader to Your Den Inviting a Parent to Your Den Committee Training Inviting a Scout to Your Den Viewing an Adult’s Profile Check out the Den Leader Experience for yourself through District committee training has been taught the same way for many Scoutbook and be sure to head to Bryan on Scouting’s story to learn years. By leveraging the BSA Learn Center we can provide the district more about the awesome features! committee a learning environment that gives them the content they need For questions on the Den Leader Experience or Scoutbook in general, when they need it and leverage professional training for consistency in you can always contact the Scoutbook support team at: Scoutbook. district training. [email protected]. You can also read answers to frequently asked This new learning will replace the District Committee Workshop and questions http://Scoutbook Den Leader Experienc. will provide learning plans aligned with the various district committee As always, keep an eye on Scoutbook.com for updates and stay positions and functions to include: tuned to Scouting Wire for details on another new video series featuring District Chair/District Vice-Chair Membership den leader tips and rank overviews! Fund Development Program Camping and Outdoor Program Activities and Civic Service Training Member-at-Large Every Scout Deserves a Advancement and Recognition Nominating

Trained Leader As the online training supersedes the District Committee If you had a magic wand, would you use it to make the Scouting Workshop, use of the District Committee Workshop syllabus for program better and more fun for youth so they stayed in Scouting longer, training should be discontinued. so it had a larger impact on their lives? What if the same magic wand made leadership roles easier, more rewarding, and led to better retention among adult leaders? Would using that magic wand be a top priority? Well, such a magic wand does exist—in the form of the learning programs for leaders in the Boy Scouts of America. Common sense tells us that training is important and research shows the importance of trained leaders. A trained leader is knowledgeable and more confident in the role being performed. Trained leaders exhibit knowledge and confidence that is picked up by people around them. Trained leaders impact the quality of programs, leader tenure, youth tenure, safety and a whole lot more. A trained leader is better prepared to make the Scouting program all it can be! Page 22 Training Talk September 2020

New Cub Scout Facilitator-Led Training

This course is designed to deliver training for all position-trained Cub Scout positions and matches the online content. The training is intended to help leaders begin a “path of learning.” The goal is to encourage and incentivize leaders to become continuous learners, providing the basic information and skills necessary to get them started on their journey and then give them access to and knowledge of additional resources and Cub Scout Adventures training opportunities available to them. Video Resources

Figuring out how to create a fun den meeting in a virtual setting can New “Scouts BSA” Training feel overwhelming. The new online/facilitated version of the Scouts BSA training That’s why the National Council and 50 councils across the country will be available on August 3rd. Because of the change in the Learning worked together to produce these Cub Scout Adventures video resources Management System (LMS) you will need to complete any modules to help den leaders. you may be currently working on. If you did not complete the training They are a series of short videos, prepared by councils, to align with by August 3rd, you will have to restart the training using the new Adventures for each Cub Scout rank. Scouting volunteers and council learning plans and modules. professionals recruited local subject matter experts, like museums, The change to the Learning Plans will affect the following positions theaters, businesses and law enforcement agencies as well as the BSA’s – Scoutmaster/Assistant Scoutmaster, Committee Chair, Committee national high-adventure bases, to create these videos that cover 96 Cub Member and Merit Badge Counselor. Scout Adventures. Many of these videos were filmed by den leaders and The new online learning combines content, resulting in fewer Scouts, too. modules and streamlined courses to help reduce the total time it takes to You can use these videos to enhance your virtual den meetings; complete the training. The new facilitated course uses offline versions they don’t take the place of the program designed and presented in the of the learning modules to facilitate maintenance on any future changes Den Leader Experience or Cub Scout handbooks. However, during the – thus the online and facilitated content are simultaneously updated to COVID-19 pandemic, these virtual resources may be used to complete ensure consistency. requirements, such as virtual tours instead of den outings. During this time, as in any time, follow the Cub Scout motto: Do Your Best. Please note: Completion of the appropriate portion of the Scouts Webinars via Zoom are planned for August 31 and September 14 BSA training will meet the requirements for to help you Do Your Best by demonstrating how best to use these video • Scoutmaster & Assistant Scoutmaster: S24 resources. Also on the video resource page are tips for using BSA’s • Scoutmaster Specific Training advancement tracking tool Scoutbook and more helpful videos for • Merit Badge Counselor: D76 Merit Badge running a den meeting. Links to these videos are also within Scoutbook. • Counselor Orientation Training • Troop Committee Chair & Committee: • WS10 Troop Committee Challenge . Thank you for being a trained leader!

Okpik for 2020 Training ... Has been Are You on Facebook? Postponed If so, have you found the BSA volunteer training page? We have 14,000+ “Follows” and “Likes,”and the number is growing every day. Encourage your Facebook friends to join us. You can find the page by logging into your Facebook account and putting “BSA Volunteer At Okpik, the safety of our participants has always been paramount Training Team” in the search line. to our training. With that still foremost in our minds and given the To learn more visit our website at https://www.scouting.org/training uncertainty of the current times, we have made the difficult decision to cancel the 2020-2021 course. Please stay safe and healthy this winter and we are looking forward to having you join us in 2021-2022! Page 23 Camping September 2020

Now Open! 2021 Scouts BSA Summer Camp Registration! 2021 will be here before you know it!

Sign up your troop today! 2021 will be filling up quickly!

Canyon Camp Camp Lowden

Week 1 June 20, 2021 - June 26, 2021 Week 1 June 20, 2021 - June 26, 2021 Week 2 June 27, 2021 - July 3, 2021 Week 2 June 27, 2021 - July 3, 2021 Week 3 July 4, 2021 - July 10, 2021 Week 3 July 4, 2021 - July 10, 2021 Week 4 July 11, 2021 - July 17, 2021 Week 4 July 11, 2021 - July 17, 2021 Week 5 July 18, 2021 - July 24, 2021 Week 4 July 11, 2021 - July 17, 2021

New program feature: 32 foot Climbing structure to New program feature: Cowboy Action Shooting complete our Zip-line and High Ropes area. Range! Do you have what it takes to make it the New Merit Badges: Graphic Art, Textile, Insect Study, Wild West? Scouting Heritage, and Metalwork. New Program Area – Skilled Trades: Automotive Maintenance, Composite Material, Drafting, Electricity, Graphic Arts, Home Repair, Metalworking, Painting, Plumbing, Welding

Register online for either camp at https://blackhawkhub.org/posts/54251 Page 24 Camp News September 2020

Canyon Camp - Kiwanis Woodcutter’s Ball Update

The Annual Kiwanis Woodcutter's Ball Work Day scheduled for If you would like to volunteer to be a part of our off-season work October 3, 2020 will not occur in its traditional format this year. Without project team, please share your interest by emailing program.canyon@ Camp operating this summer season, we have fewer winter preparation gmail.com. Additionally, you can email [email protected] projects needed for this fall. In combination with the pandemic, we feel it As opportunities arise for simple projects, we would love to have is best to hold small work project days as needed throughout the fall and your name on the short list of folks we may be able to contact to come to winter seasons rather than bring one large group together on October 3 camp. This group will follow strict safety guidelines related to covid-19 in the traditional manner of the Kiwanis Woodcutter's Ball. We are very and will gather depending on availability and quantity of volunteers. thankful for the continued relationship with the Monroe Kiwanis Club Thank you for all you do for Canyon Camp, and we look forward and we look forward to gathering together through this partnership next to bringing all of our amazing volunteers like you together in the future Spring as we prepare for the 2021 summer season. when it's safe to do so. Lee Binkley and Dick Reynolds, Co-camp Directors Page 25 Camp September 2020 Volunteer Recognition Summer 2020 Will Be (From Advancement News, September-October 2019)

Remembered Forever Human beings of all ages love recognition. We might not always want to admit it, or we might think some recognitions are silly, but we Although the summer was not the adventure we had planned with still want to be recognized for a good effort or a job well done. Research hundreds of hours preparing for your arrival, it will be one that will and leadership theory backs that up. be remembered forever. Canyon Camp had been on course for another • The Gallup Organization says one of the most important elements historic year welcoming you and hundreds of others through the front of a successful team is when a member answers “Yes” to “Have I gates of camp. Instead, we had small work crews accomplishing received recognition or praise for doing good work?” meaningful maintenance projects socially distanced at all times. • One favorite learning organization, the Disney Institute, says: “Recognition can be empowering, often propelling people to higher Our world changed quickly this last spring, and we were proud to levels of engagement.” see how our units and leaders displayed how they live the Scout Motto. • The psychology blog Exploring Your Mind says, “If we are Thank you for your understanding, and we cannot wait to have you to recognized and respected, our self-esteem blossoms. But be camp soon. The summer of 2020 will be remembered forever, but the careful! Just as we accept it, it is also essential to know how to offer summer of 2021 will be the one we look forward to the most! recognition to others.” Looking ahead, we have a number of weekend family camping Baden-Powell recognized the value and importance of recognition opportunities available, hiking days, AND an online trading post for youth, e.g., badges of merit, as well as adults, e.g., a wooden bead on available for you! These may not be the same as a full summer camp a leather thong, in Scouting from its earliest days. The founders of the experience, but at least you can get a taste of Canyon Camp. Boy Scouts of America followed this concept, too. Most of us are well aware of the elements and importance of youth In recent weeks we have received new unit registrations and a few recognition, but at times we forget the value of adult recognition. As camp staff applications. It’s refreshing to begin to think about next advancement and recognition leaders we really need to make an effort summer. Canyon Camp is already at 70% capacity for the 2021 season- to recognize our volunteers for their efforts. And, since many volunteers click here to register today! are not seeking recognition, other volunteers might have to be the ones This fall and winter leading into 2021 will be different, but it who make it happen rather than let it happen or hope it happens. energizes us thinking about how great next summer will be. We look Recognition is the “psychic paycheck” we seek when we volunteer. forward to seeing you soon at Canyon Camp. It keeps volunteers motivated and, in the case of recognition for units such as the Journey to Excellence, it helps to promote a good feeling If you have any questions, please reach out to us at any time at among Scouts, leaders, parents, and the chartered organization regarding [email protected]. their Scouting program: “WE are a Gold JTE Unit!” • Do you make sure training and service awards are applied for and presented to deserving Scouters in • your unit or units? • Do you have an intentional plan for soliciting nominations for the District Award of Merit, Silver Beavers, and even Silver Antelopes, and Distinguished or Outstanding Eagle Scout Awards? • Do you present some of these awards in public, or do you present them in private? Or worse – by mail? Banquets, pack meetings, courts of honor, and service area meetings are great venues for recognition. Use them or create events in your service area to facilitate recognition.

Furthermore, when volunteers who contribute in an outstanding way are recognized, we as advancement and recognition leaders who helped to make it possible, feel good too. We might not be the ones who get that certificate or square knot, but we know we played a role in making sure the right person did – and in seeing the good that will likely happen in the future because of the recognition. Section 3.0.0.0 of the Guide to Advancement has some points on how you can recognize youth and volunteers. You can also find valuable information about the multitude of BSA awards available on Scouting. org on the Advancement and the Awards-Central pages. Make sure you remember to recognize! Page 26 September 2020 Sycamore District Serving McHenry County in Illinois

Sycamore District Committee

Committee Chair - Matthew Ewertowski - 815-276-782 Training Chairperson - Tom Lotito, 224-829-6676 District Commissioner – David Beeson, 847-754-4392 Assistant Training Chair - Christina Bahnsen, 815-245-6303 Vice-Chair of Membership - Karla Zander, 847-650-9951 Cub Scout Training - Tyson Carter, 708-642-1972 Cub Scout - Fall Roundup - Donald Novak, 847-497-9223 Boy Scout Training - Tara Northway Cub Scout - Spring Recruitment - Donald Novak, 847-497-9223 Venturing Training - Randy Jenovai Webelos-to-Scout Tansition - Vacant District Executive - Michael Ancheta, 815-397-0210 Boy Scout Open House - Vacant District Executive - Laura Cullotta, 815-397-0210 Vice Chair of Finance - Charles Natoli - 847-531-7765 Family Friends of Scouting Chair - Charles Powe, 224-569-6481 Community Friends of Scouting Chair - Vacant Popcorn Kernel - Cynthia Graf - Sycamore District Calendar Sporting Clays Legacy of Service September Vice-Chair of Administration - Michelle Myshkowec, 847-417-9875 10 Roundtable Nominating Committee Chairperson - Lance Snider, 12 Sporting Clays, Camp Lowden 630-525-0518 18-20 Religious Retreat, Camp Lowden Committee Member - Jennifer Broadfield, 847-754-7080 19 Rifle & Shotgun Merit Badge Day, Camp Lowden Committee Member - Russ Friend, 847-915-8660 21 Golf Outing, Poplar Grove, Illinois Committee Member - Pierre Langlois, 815-675-6524 24 District Commissioners meeting Committee Member - Chuck Natoli, 847-531-7765 25-27 U.S. Grant Pilgrimage (Virtual) Committee Member - Blair Piotrowski, 847-712-0867 25-27 Across the Council Training Event Risk Management Representative - Michael McCleary - 815-337- 9016 October 2020 District Dinner Chair - Carrie Fiorina 1 District Committee meeting Awards and Recognition - Jeff Klinefelter, 815-236-1847 4 Popcorn Blitz Day Noteworthy Editor - Rachel Friend, 24-829-6479 6 Courier deadline for November Web Administrator - Rachel Friend,224-829-6479 8 Roundtable Local Media Coordinator, Vacant 9-11 Family Camping, Camp Lowden Public Relations Chairpersons - Leah Beeson - 847-502-2452 10 Rifle and Shotgun Merit Badge Day, Camp Lowden and Kurt Kokoruz - 815-307-8027 12 Columbus Day Vice-Chair of Program - Brian Gahan 16 Legacy of Service Advancement and Recognition Chairperson - Frank Colomer, Jr., 17 Camp Lowden Fall Work Day 815-276-5214 17 ATV Safety Training Internet Advancement Pack Coordinator - Leah Beeson, 22 District Commissioners meeting 847-754-4392 23-25 Family Camping, Camp Lowden Internet Advancement Troop Coordinator - Sean Smith, 24 Rifle & Shotgun Merit Badge Day, Camp Lowden 224-523-4847 24 ATV Safety Training Life-Eagle Board Coordinator - Michael Lumpp, 815-344- 1088 Activities and Civic Service Chairperson - Maria Kaiser, November 2020 224-256-1708 1 Silver Beaver Nominations due Klondike Chair - 3 Courier deadline for December issue Scouting for Food - Susan Clancy-Kelly, 847-516-3782 5 District Committee meeting Woods of Webelos Coordinator - Gail Krec, 815-675-6578 7 Scoutology Day (Training) Sycamore Derby Days - Melissa Davis, 224-587-3820 11 Veteran’s Day Tiger Time Chair - Vacant 12 Roundtable Merit Badge Day - Denike Warden, 847-863-0929 14 Okpik, session 1 Camp Promotion and Outdoor Chairperson - Chuck Natoli, 19 District Commisioners meetings 847-531-7765 26 Thanksgiving Day Day Camp Administrator - Christina Bahnsen, 815-245-6303 26-27 Council service center closed Day Camp Administrator - Lisa DeRusha, 815-861-9203 OA Advisor - Dan Koleno, 815-344-4569 Page 27 Sycamore District September 2020

Friends of Scouting

Chuck Natoli District Vice-Chair, Finance

I hope all is well with everyone in your unit. In my 27 years as an adult leader, I have not seen as many changes in Scouting as we have had in the last four months due to Covid-19. This has been an interesting time for Scouting with the pandemic canceling many summer camps, high adventure trips, campouts, in person meetings, etc. We now have virtual campouts, virtual unit meetings, virtual merit badges, virtual rank advancements, etc. I know many units (mine was one of them) did not get to have a formal Friends of Scouting (FOS) presentation. Because of that, many of you may not have been able to make a Friends of Scouting contribution for this year. If you are able to make a contribution, there are easy ways to give: • You can text “mchenryscouting” to 1-844-615-4269 • Go online to https://donations.scouting.org/#/council/660/appeal/647 Fill in your unit information and they will get credit toward your unit FOS goal.

The Blackhawk Area Council would not be able to provide the programs that support youth character development and life skills without the generous support of donors like you. Local programs and activities throughout the council territory serve over 11,000 total youth; including the 3,000 youth in Sycamore District. This funding supports • Volunteer and staff training: Distribution and development of literature and training-materials • Insurance coverage to protect Scouts, volunteers, chartered organizations, staff members and properties • Support staff for registration, publications and other program support • Camp promotion for Cub Scout day camps, Scouts BSA summer camps and more • Camp rangers to keep the council camps up-to-date and ready for Scouts and families • Camp equipment, like tents, cooking equipment, camp vehicles, building repairs, canoes, equipment replacement and repair, and general upkeep of council camps • Membership Promotional Materials like yard signs, door hangers, flyers, geofencing, and more. • Recognitions for leaders who complete training, volunteer for special projects and help in many Scouting roles • Professional staff to work with volunteers to organize new units, manage fundraising programs, conduct training, assist membership recruitment, provide counsel and direct support for district, camps and programs • Administrative needs, including postage, computers,and links to the National BSA computer system, copy machines, the council website, etc. • Service centers to provide additional support to volunteers • Audio-visual supplies used in training, at camps and in volunteer meetings • Camp scholarships, uniforms and registration fees for disadvantaged young people

Thank you again for your commitment to our youth! Chuck Natoli Sycamore District Vice Chair of Finance Sporting Clays for McHenry County The 18th Annual Sporting Clays for Scouting was held on August 29 at the Northbrook Sports Club in Hainsville, Illinois. We had 22 teams with a total of 97 shooting. It was a beautiful day as the temperature was perfect and the sun was shining. The gun raffle was remarkably successful with 5 gift card prizes ranging from $379 to $949 to Bass Pro Shops. Everyone who was there had a great time. Thanks to the committee who is retiring after 18 years of service on this event. Also, a thanks to all the shooters, participants, volunteers, Northbrook Sports Club, and the sponsors listed below. Bass Pro was the Event Sponsor USMM was the Eagle Sponsor. Chicago Plastic Systems was the Star Sponsor. EMCOR was a First Class Sponsor. Chas Herdrich was a First Class Sponsor. Page 28 Sycamore District September 2020

Cynthia Graf with daughter Emily Sycamore District Sycamore Leader Training Popcorn Kernel

Training is a year long effort. While we look to add more Cub Scout-centric training for September and October, we always offer training in multiple ways. First – Online training exists for almost every Basic Leader Training (BLT) in the BSA Learn Center. These training sessions allow every adult to meet the requirements laid out for each position. Second – Online Zoom training exists for almost all classes (except for YPT or those that require an outdoor component). We have been offering training via Zoom during the pandemic, and will continue to offer more on an ongoing basis. Third – In person training can be held as long as they meet the Pop into Fall Popcorn Sales council and state requirements. We will have in- person training this Fall popcorn sales are underway. Fifty units in the Sycamore District fall. are ready to sell popcorn to support their Scouting adventures with the We have scheduled more training than ever before, and, in turn, help of Trail's End Popcorn. There are three ways to sell this year – we’ve trained more people since March than we ever have in the past. online direct, wagon sales, and storefront. Your commitment to being trained is excellent, and shows up in out There are so many units in our Sycamore District that will only stats. In two years we’ve gone from 33% trained leaders to 66%. This be doing online direct sales this year. This will be a safe and contact- has been amazing – but the road only gets steeper as we approach free way to support Scouting and can continue throughout the year. 100% Trained Leadership. Every one of us needs to take the training Scouts can send emails, texts, and post on social media to promote their commitment seriously – and additionally make sure you’re enabling popcorn sales. Scouts can also send a Thank You note to their customers those other leaders you influence to be equipped with the tools they for purchasing popcorn online. need to deliver the Promise of Scouting to all! Some products are available only online such as the Unbelievable To take your training, go to https://www.scouting.org/training/ Butter Microwave Popcorn, Campfire Blend Coffee K-cups and the adult/Section Called “Position-Specific (Role-Based) Courses” Chocolatey Caramel Crunch Tin. If your unit is promoting prizes, online All Classes (Except IOLS abd Webelos Den Leader Outdor sales give your Scout double points toward their Amazon gift card. Training) can be taken online in the BSA LEARN CENTER at http:// The traditional take order form is now available on the Trail's End my.scouting.org App and allows Scouts to collect money via credit/debit card. This is Tom Lotito known as a wagon sale and is tracked in real time. Scouts can sell to Assistant Council Commissioner family, friends, and neighbors and mark delivered or undelivered. If Sycamore District Training Chair your unit is interested in selling the traditional paper way, we can do 224-829-6676 that. Be sure to have your Popcorn Kernel pick-up their forms from the Scout office in Crystal Lake. Trail's End also offers Scouts and their families webinars and assistance around the clock via Facebook to help them navigate the TE app. The storefront sales have not been forgotten. If a pack or troop chooses, they can sell at a storefront even without product. There are places designated by Trail's End located in our district that are allowing Scouts to sell. Kernels can sign up for a storefront on their leader website and pick up their banners and square readers for store fronts at the scout office.

Some of the important dates for popcorn: • Sunday, Sept 6th Orders for 2nd Storefront or Deliverable Wagon sales due Scout Swim Tests • Friday, Sept 18th Delivery for 2nd orders • Sunday, October 25th All Take Orders due Scouts from Troop #159 in Woodstock prepare for their swim tests at • Friday, November 13th Delivery for Take Orders (Kernels that the Woodstock Recreation Center. With Scouts unable to complete their help sort will be able to take their popcorn 1st) swim tests at summer camp this year, Scouts were unable to complete It's not too late to sign up for Fall Trail's End popcorn sales. Popcorn the Second Class and First Class Swimming requirements, delaying helps scouts become decision makers, learn money management, their advancements. become goal setters and learn people skills. If your unit is interested in I have made arrangements with the Woodstock Recreation Center for selling popcorn, please let us know and we will help get you started. If Scouts to complete their swim tests on Saturday afternoons beginning at you have questions contact me at [email protected] 3:00 p.m. The fee is $5.00 per Scout. Cynthia Graf If your unit is interested, please contact Michael McCleary at Sycamore District Popcorn Kernel [email protected]. Pack 367 Popcorn Kernel Page 29 September 2020

Wanchanagi District Serving Winnebago & Boone Counties in Illinois

Wanchanagi District Directory Wanchanagi District Calendar

District Chair – Ald. Clint Little, [email protected], 815-540- 0563 September 2020 10 Roundtable Vice Chair – Admin: Lara Skrzypczynski, [email protected], 815-519- 12 Sporting Clays, Camp Lowden 5724 12 Fishing Merit Badge, Four Lakes Vice Chair – Finance: Cliff Chappell, [email protected], 815-713- 16 Fishing Merit Badge, Bauman Park 0731 18-20 Family Camping at Camp Lowden Vice Chair – Membership: Megan Crain, [email protected], 779-772- 19 Rifle and Shotgun Merit Badge Day, Camp Lowden 0501 19 ATV Safety Training, Camp Lowden Vice Chair – Program: Rob Bucey, [email protected], 815-985-3221 19 Fishing Merit Badge, Four Lakes District Commissioner: Alice Roby, [email protected] 19 Stomp Into Scouting Pcpcorn Kernel -- Open 21 Golf Outing, Poplar Grove, Illinois Friends of Scouting Coordinator – Open 25-27 U.S. Grant Pilgrimage (Virtual) Training Chair – Alice Roby, [email protected], 773-368-5724) 26 Fishing Merit Badge, Four Lakes Camp Promotion & Outdoor Chair – Open 26 Rifle and Shotgun Merit Badge Day, Camp Lowden Activities & Civic Service Chair – Cleto Trigo, [email protected] Advancement & Recognition Chair – Connie Snyder (wanprojreview@ yahoo.com; 815-262-5223 October 2020 Religious Emblems Coordinator– MaryAnn Bushaw, bushville181@comcast. 3 Sporting Clays, Camp Lowden net, 815-904-4287 3 Fishing Merit Badge, Four Lakes Scouting For Food Coordinator – Bob Olson, [email protected], 815- 4 Popcorn Blitz Day 222-3204 6 Courier deadline for November issue Day Camp Coordinator – Alice Roby, [email protected], 773-368-5724 9-11 Family Camping, Camp Lowden Chair –Rick Kuntzelman 10 Rifle and Shotgun Merit Badge Day, Camp Lowden Fall Chair– Open 12 Columbus Day Flag Retirement Chair – Paul Trent, [email protected], 815-871-3801 17 Camp Lowden Fall Work Day Continuous Fire Chair – Aaron Roby, [email protected] 17 ATV Safety Training Cub Scout Roundtable – Heidi Fawcett, [email protected] 23-25 Family Camping, Camp Lowden Scouts BSA/Venturing Roundtable – Open 24 Rifle and Shotgun Merit Badge Day, Camp Lowden District Executive – Roman J. Salamon 24 ATV Safety Training [email protected], 815-397-0210 November 2020 1 Silver Beaver Nominations due 3 Courier deadline for December issue 5 District Committee and Commissioners meetings 7 Scoutology Day (Training) 11 Veteran’s Day 12 Roundtable 14 Okpik, session 1 26 Thanksgiving Day Stomp Into Scouting! 26-27 Council service center closed September 19 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Council Program Center Wanchanagi District Your District Membership team is hosting a Cub Scouts Family Fun Roundtable Event aimed at recruiting families into the program. Activities include making your own Stomp Rockets and Film Canister Rockets. This is a great opportunity to bring a friend to learn more about All meetings are virtual until further notice. Check www. Cub Scouts. blackhawkhub.org and Wanchanagi Facebook page for meeting The fun starts on September 19, 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at the details Blackhawk Area Council Program Center (7194 Vandiver Road, Rockford, Wanchanagi District virtual roundtable will be September 10 For more details or to volunteer during the event, contact Megan Crain at 7 p.m at [email protected]. Check Wanchanagi Facebook Page for Zoom details. Page 30 Wanchanagi District September 2020

REGISTER ON FOUR LAKES DOUBLEKNOT

Sept 12, 19 & 26; Oct 3 WHAT TO BRING Fishing pole/rod Bait 7am – 11am Lures Face Mask Water Snack Signed Blue Card BAUMAN PARK PARENTS OR GUARDIAN Sept 16 - 6:30 pm Required to stay NEED TO FINISH UP A PARTIAL-WELCOME TO ATTEND PLEASE REGISTER

Page 31 Wanchanagi District September 2020 Congratulations, Scouters

What a great evening to celebrate Scouting while recognizing the accomplishments of Scouts and Scouters in our district at the Rockford Rivets Scout Night event. Congratulations to all the recipients and a big thank you to all of you in the Scouting family for joining us. The Wanchanagi District Key 3 – District Chair Clint Little, District Commissioner Alice Roby and District Executive Roman Salamon – had the honor to toss the first pitch of the game to start the night’s entertainment. Again thank you for attending and all you do for Scouting

2020 District Award of Merit Key 3 Prepares for for First Pitch The District Award of Merit is a council award presented by districts Wanchanagi District Galaxy Youth Award in the same manner that the Silver Beaver is a national award presented by councils. The award is available to Scouters who render service of By regularly living up to the ideals of Scouting and consistently an outstanding nature at the district level. The award is made available giving of self, these youth have shown exceptional in their annually on the basis of 1 for each 25 traditional units or fraction thereof. unit that is out of this galaxy. Wanchanagi District recognizes the The district need not present all the awards to which it is entitled each following youth for their Scouting spirit demonstrated to others. year. Dominic Carlson – Troop 601B Eliana Carlson – Troop 601G Charles Campbell – Pack 139 Aiden Doherty – Troop 123 JJ Huggins – Troop 705 Theodore Jaeger – Pack 37 Emma Karl – Troop 111 Nathan Kyriazopoulos – Troop 206 Tate Medina – Crew 181 Jackson Sorensen – Pack 418 Kiera Watson – Cre w 181

Wanchanagi District Outstanding Award

The nominee must be a registered Scouter. The nominee must have rendered noteworthy service to Scouting and consideration will be given to the nominee's position and the corresponding opportunity to render outstanding service. One leader and one committee member per Scouting Key 3 Presents Lisa’s Award program is selected. Wanchanagi District expresses its appreciation of Lisa Dunaway the following leaders for their noteworthy service to their units: Wanchanagi District expresses its upmost gratitude to Lisa Rick Eichstaedt, Committee Member – Troop 123 Dunaway for her outstanding service to youth and Scouting. With Scott Green, Committee Member – Pack 396 more than 22 years of service in Scouting, Lisa has served on day Stephen Kirschbaum, Cubmaster – Pack 37 camp staff, district advancement committee.as a liaison and trainer Heidi Underhill - Committee Member – Crew 181 on Internet Advancement, and as a representative for Eagle Board of Review, as a Girl Scout Religious Award counselor, and as a member Wanchanagi District Unit Spirit Award of Lutheran Association of Scouters. Lisa received the Den Leader award twice, assisted with district training teaching both advancement The Unit Spirit Award is designed to recognize one individual in and leathercraft, and currently holds the advancement chair position for a unit who best exemplifies the ideals of Scouting in everything that Troop 57 for the past 15 years. Congratulations to Lisa Dunaway, 2020 they do. They do not need to be a registered leader, but should motivate District Award of Merit recipient for Wanchanagi District others, work tirelessly, and have a positive influence with all they come in contact. Wanchanagi District expresses its appreciation of the following individuals for their dedication and hard work given to the Laurel Hemmer Serves at SBR Boy Scouts of America and their scout unit. Heidi Fawcett -- Pack 418 Laurel Hemmer, committee member with Crew 224, spent the Tom Frawley – Troop 601B summer as a Shooting Sports Instructor at Summit Bechtel Reserve in Sherri Ginger – Troop 705 West ..Her adventures at SBR included meeting , Dave Larson – Pack 139 CEO of Boy Scouts of America, and participating in a flag ceremony for Kelly Lowary – Pack 37 a nationwide virtual BSA Staff Conference, viewed by more than 3,000 Scott Steingraeber – Troop 123 professional Scouters Anthony Williams – Pack 141 Elizabeth Zeller – Troop 601G Page 32 Wanchanagi District September 2020

Video Recruiting Series

Video recordings of the National Recruiting Webinar Summer Series are now available for viewing. These one-hour videos cover a variety of topics important to recruiting in 2020, including geofencing, BeAScout. Troops Build Birdhouses org, Zoom 101, online registration, and much more. The recordings are available in the National Marketing and Scouts BSA troops 601B and 601G came together to build and paint Membership Hub (https://scoutingwire.org/marketing-and-membership- birdhouses requested by a local park. We have another coat to paint next hub). week. Both troops will donate the birdhouse after painting is complete. The girls have hiked, done individual cooking, made fire starters, and enjoyed our parks and being together outdoors. The boys have had knife safety, knots, team building, cooking and have also enjoyed seeing their fellow scouts and being outdoors. It’s been fun watching the Scouts get together after the shelter in place. Both troops had a great time coming together for the Scout Night at the Rivets event; bringing 30+ people from our troop family to enjoy the game. We hope all Scouting units are having the fun we are having!

Cub Scout Pack 5 Service Project Cub Scout Pack 5 took advantage of town-wide garage sales in Winnebago and set up a water-source booth for families. While stopping for a bottle of ice-cold water, families learned about the Cub Scout program. Page 33 September 2020 White Eagle District Serving Whiteside, Lee, and Ogle Counties in Illinois

White Eagle District Directory White Eagle District Calendar District Chair, Dan Hawkins, [email protected] District Commissioner, Nancy Johnson, [email protected] September 2020 Vice Chair Training, Josh Stone, [email protected] 10 Roundtable Vice Chair Membership, Bruce Colmark, [email protected] 12 Sporting Clays, Camp Lowden Vice Chair Advancement , Kari Ebens, [email protected] 18-20 Family Camping at Camp Lowden Vice Chairs Finance, Christopher Tenggren, christophertenggren@gmail. 19 Rifle and Shotgun Merit Badge Day, Camp Lowden com 19 ATV Safety Training, Camp Lowden Scouts BSA Roundtable Commissioners 21 Golf Outing, Poplar Grove, Illinois Dr. Don Rastede 25-27 U.S. Grant Pilgrimage (Virtual) Keith Potter, [email protected] 25-27 Family Camping at Camp Lowden Cub Scout Roundtable Commissioner 26 Rifle and Shotgun Merit Badge Day, Camp Lowden Josh Stone, [email protected] 25- October 31 U.S. Grant Pilgrimage (Virtual) Vice Chair Public Relations/News, Heather Wiedrich, heatherwiedrich@ comcast.net Vice Chair Social Media, Gregg Ripley, [email protected] October 2020 1 District Committee meetings Vice Chair Religious Emblems, Heather Wiedrich, heatherwiedrich@ 3 Sporting Clays, Camp Lowden comcast.net 4 Popcorn Blitz Day Vice Chairs Activities, Dr. Don Rastede, [email protected] 6 Courier deadline for November issue Keith Potter 8 Roundtable Vice Chair Special Activities, Rosemary Matthiessen, rmatthiessen@ 9-11 Family Camping, Camp Lowden yahoo.com 10 Rifle and Shotgun Merit Badge Day, Camp Lowden Vice Chair Camping, Tom Halla, [email protected] 12 Columbus Day , Scott Diehl, [email protected] 17 Camp Lowden Fall Work Day Michelle Diehl, [email protected] 17 ATV Safety Training Senior District Executive, Bob Sutton 23-25 Family Camping, Camp Lowden 815-397-0210, [email protected] 24 Rifle and Shotgun Merit Badge Day, Camp Lowden 24 ATV Safety Training

New Date for Recognition Dinner November 2020 The White Eagle District Recognition Celebration 1 Silver Beaver Nominations due will be held on April 10, 2021 3 Courier deadline for December issue 5 District Committee meeting 7 Scoutology Day (Training) 11 Veteran’s Day 12 Roundtable 14 Okpik, session 1 26 Thanksgiving Day 26-27 Council service center closed Page 34 White Eagle District September 2020 From the Desk of Bob Sutton Making a Senior District Executive Safety Difference Fall will be here before we know it. This means units are busy preparing for outdoor camping and other outdoor programs. Please Kids today have too few, real- take time review The Guide to Safe Scouting to ensure compliance. life, up-close champions. TV figures Also, to make sure that we are using good safety practices to ensure and sports stars aren’t real. Teachers, the safety and well being of our youth. ministers, unfortunately, are too often cast in a different light. Parents—well, Court of Honor / Blue and Gold Event this is the stage in life when kids start All unit leaders – if you were not able to have your Court of to look outside the homes. Coaches and Honor or Blue and Gold in the Spring, please send me your dates Scout leaders ... for your rescheduled events. The District Key 3 would like to come You have a real chance to change a and out and join you in celebration. We also want to give families an kid’s life. Scouters often say their Scouts opportunity to give back to Scouting through Friends of Scouting. So could easily be in the criminal system please let us know when your event is scheduled. Please and thank because of whom they associate with at you! You can contact me at Text: (563) 607-4640 or Email: Robert. a wrong moment. [email protected]. You set a powerful example in how you treat kids. You help assure they make Popcorn Sale right choices. You provide a safe haven Popcorn sales have started. If your unit is not signed up, please do so. Popcorn can help where they aren’t put down but are built to support your unit financially and make it possible for your youth to enjoy more and better up. You are a champion for kids. This is programs. Popcorn sales can also be done online We also have door hangers to assist in product your chance to make a difference. sales. The door hangers have some of the best selling products listed and also a spot for contact If a Boy Scout attends his weekly information. This means less need for direct contact and still provides a great service to your patrol and troop meeting, participates customer. Units can also use Square readers provided by Trails End to take credit card payments in a monthly weekend troop outing and for faster service. attends long-term summer camp with his troop, he will have spent about as much Friends of Scouing time with Scouting in a year as he spends Friends of Scouting is a way for you to help support the council and district programs. in a classroom. Without your support we cannot provide the quality program for your youth that we all want, so I am asking you to give if you can. If you missed your Blue and Gold or Court of Honor, please consider a gift to Friends of Scouting. If you have questions or need help, please contact me at 563-607-4640. Thank you very much!

Fall Recrutment Unit leaders – please contact me with your p Fall recruitment plans. We have flyers and e-flyers available. We also have other materials available for recruitment. Including peer-to- peer cards so that your youth can invite their friends. We need to invite new youth into our programs so that we can share the positive message of Scouting with more families.

Thank You I want to thank everyone for continuing to work in the Scouting program and for the leadership you have shown through these uncertain times. Also thank you for helping me through the recharter process which was quite challenging this year. Because of your leadership and cooperation we made it through and we are ready to get back to Scouting. Thank you, Bob Sutton Page 35 September 2020

Wetassa District Serving Stephenson, Jo Daviess and Carroll in Illinois

Wetassa District Directory Wetassa District Calendar District Chair – Joshua Ehlers, [email protected] 815-291-6748 September 12 Sporting Clays, Camp Lowden District Commissioner – Jim Clay, [email protected], 970-443-2997 21 Golf Outing, Poplar Grove, Illinois District Vice-Chair – Lee Kraut, [email protected], 18-20 Religious Retreat, Camp Lowden 815-297-8247 25-27 U.S. Grant Pilgrimage Roundtable Commissioner – Barry Sanders, [email protected] 815-654-8349 26 Scout Day at Ditmarr Farms Asst District Commissioner – Alex Valencic, [email protected] 217-714- 1291 Fundraising – Gene Knott, [email protected], 815-238-3724 October 2020 Membership – Vicki Kested, [email protected], 1 District Committee meetings 815-291-5855 3 Sporting Clays, Camp Lowden Activities – John Scott, [email protected] 4 Popcorn Blitz Day Camping – Bob Boyer, [email protected], 815-369-2834 6 Courier deadline for November issue Popcorn Chair – Christine Gable, [email protected] 8 Roundtable 815-275-3280 9-11 Family Camping, Camp Lowden Advancement and Recognition – Jeanie Santa Cruz , 10 Rifle and Shotgun Merit Badge Day, Camp Lowden [email protected], 815-238-4384 12 Columbus Day Eagle Review – Liz Hollis, [email protected], 17 Camp Lowden Fall Work Day 815-233-4870 17 ATV Safety Training Field Director – Matt Ohms, [email protected], 23-25 Family Camping, Camp Lowden 815-397-0210 24 Rifle and Shotgun Merit Badge Day, Camp Lowden 24 ATV Safety Training

November 2020 Dittmar Farms Scout Day 1 Silver Beaver Nominations due September 26 3 Courier deadline for December issue 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. 5 District Committee meeting 256 S Grebner Rd, Elizabeth Illinois 61028 7 Scoutology Day (Training) 11 Veteran’s Day 12 Roundtable Wetasssa District Roundtables 14 Okpik, session 1 Roundtables are held at 7:00 p.m. at Bethany United Church of Christ, 2341 W Stephenson 26 Thanksgiving Day St, Freeport. 26-27 Council service center closed Roundtables presently are planned for the sseond Wednesday of each month starting at 7:00 p.m. at Bethany United Church of Christ, 2341 W Stephenson St, Freeport+. The dates and programs are as follows:

October February Cub Scouts: Scoutbook/Den Leader Cub Scout: Cub Scout Advancement and Scouts: Cooking Demo (trail/backpacking Awards food) Scouts: Eagle Presentation

November March Cub Scouts: Holiday Planning Youth Protection Training for all Scouts: Summer Camp Planning (Dan Dick) April December Cub Scout: Cross Over Planning Planning for next year as a unit Scouts: Equipment Demo / minimalist camping

January May - End of Year Dinner and Adult Scouting for Food Promo (Bring in community Recognition food pantry leaders?) Hand Out Adult Award Nomination Forms (Due in March) Page 36 September 2020

Arrowhead District Serving Grant, Lafayette, and Green Counties in Wisconsin

Arrowhead District Committee Arrowhead District Calendar District Chair – Open District Commissioner – Dan Frommelt, [email protected], September 608-732-8536, 12 Sporting Clays, Camp Lowden District Activities – Kevin Olson, [email protected], 21 Golf Outing, Poplar Grove, Illinois 608-778-1950 25-October 31 U.S. Grant Pilgrimage (Virtual) District Advancement – Jim Bussan, 608-568-3177 Cub Scout Advancement – Ame Ellis, [email protected], October 815-541-7597 1 District Committee meetings District Finance – Open 3 Sporting Clays, Camp Lowden FOS – Dee Woolf, 608-348-7403 4 Popcorn Blitz Day Popcorn – Bruce Small, [email protected], 815-266-1980 6 Courier deadline for November issue District Committee member – Dan Bestul, Bestul bestul@duxstadlaw. 7 District Committee meeting com, ,608-214-4926 9-11 Family Camping, Camp Lowden Camping Chair – Molley Jerret, Jerret [email protected], 10 Rifle and Shotgun Merit Badge Day, Camp Lowden 608-330-1875 12 Columbus Day Cub Scout Roundtable – Dick Davies, [email protected], 14 Roundtable 608-778-4029 Cub Roundtable – Dick Davies 17 Camp Lowden Fall Work Day Scouts BSA Roundtable – Pam Conley, [email protected], 608-822-3633 17 ATV Safety Training District Committee – Tamara Richardson, [email protected], 23-25 Family Camping, Camp Lowden 608-426-1221 24 Rifle and Shotgun Merit Badge Day, Camp Lowden Field Director – Matt Ohms, Matt.Ohms 24 ATV Safety Training [email protected], 815-397-0210 November 2020 1 Silver Beaver Nominations due From the Desk of 3 Courier deadline for December issue 4 District Committee meeting Matt Ohms 7 Scoutology Day (Training) Field Director 11 Veteran’s Day 14 Roundtable 14 Okpik, session 16 Thanksgiving Day With School starting and the creation of routines again, and with less 26-27 Council service center closed competition for amily-time Scouting has an opportunity that we have not had for some time. Fall sports are drastically different than previous District Committee years. This is a great opportunity make sure our communities are aware of what Scouting has to offer and the life skills and experiences their Meetings will be held via Zoom the first Wednesday of every month. sone or daughter can get out of the Scouting Program. An email/meeting invite will be sent from [email protected] Many families will be looking for some extracurricular activities before the meeting. Accept the invitation and the meeting will be in your this fall. Let's make sure Scouting is easy to find and top of the list. calendar. Meetings will be held on October 7, November 4, December Many units have found a way to make Scouting happen even with 2, January 6, February 3, March 3, April 7, May 5, and June 2. current safety guidelines. Where there is a will there is a way. Showing the resilience, we teach in Scouting, living by example again. Whatever the status of units that you are associated with, now is a great time to Roundtables volunteer for the first time or continue the service you have for years. Roundtables will be held the second Youth need Scouting, our communities need Scouting. Wednesday of every month through an Thank you all for all that you do for Scouting to positively impact online portal. An email will be sent to all the youth in our communities. Now is a great time put Scouting back on registered leaders a week ahead of time family calendars and to be relevant in our community. from [email protected] with a link/ calendar invite to round table that month. When in-person roundtables will resume is undecided at this point. Bicycle Event Roundtables will be held on October 14, November 11, December October 10 in Platteville 9, January 13, February 10, March 10, April 14, May 12, and June 9. Watch for more information to come. Page 37 September 2020

Rank Box! ScouTober! What Is a Rank Box? Camp Lowden Fall Fun Activities The materials you’ll need to get your Scout their rank – – all in one box! Registration is OPEN

What is the cost? rd $40 per Scout October 3 • Pinewood Derby – Bring your old car and race live against other Scouts in Council Are these to be used at home or with a den? • Branding Station – Bring something to brand, or can purchase • Both settings! Rank boxes can be purchased for each member of mugs or hats. the den to bring with them to den meetings. • Corn Hole Tourney (Competitive and Fun Bracket) • OR they can be used at home. • Concession Stand (bottle drinks, candy, popcorn, chips)

Why Rank Boxes? October 10th 1. Time saver: den leaders and parents don’t need to worry about • Rain Gutter Races – Will have supplies to build your own boat or gathering materials for each Scout. you can purchase. 2. Safe: You know that you are the only one who has handled your • Water Rockets (bring a 2 liter bottle) We will have supplies to materials. decorate and BLAST OFF! 3. Versatile: Miss a meeting? Unable to meet in-person? No • Corn Hole Tourney (Competitive & Fun Bracket) problem! You already have your materials. • Concession Stand (bottle drinks, candy, popcorn, chips) 4. Close to you: In order to keep costs as low as possible we have multiple pick-up locations throughout the fall in Blackhawk Area October 17th Council. • Pinewood Derby - Bring your old car and race live against other Scouts in Council When? • Branding Station -Bring something to brand, or can purchase We are taking orders now and will be distributing boxes in early mugs or hats. October. • Corn Hole Tourney (Competitive & Fun Bracket) • Concession Stand (bottle drinks, candy, popcorn, chips) *Please note there are some materials that are not provided. th For example there are no perishables provided in the box. October 24 • Rain Gutter Races - Will have supplies to build your own boat or you can purchase Click the Rank Box below • Water Rockets (bring a 2 liter bottle) We will have supplies to to purchase your Rank Box today! decorate and BLAST OFF! • Corn Hole Tourney (Competitive & Fun Bracket) • Concession Stand (bottle drinks, candy, popcorn, chips)

Come to Camp Lowden for the day and enjoy Scouting activities for adult, Scouts BSA, Cub Scouts

Only $5 per person.

Register ahead of time as we are restricted to Click the register button to purchase your numbers because of Covid-19. Rank Box today!