100 Years of Scouting

2009

100 YEARS OF SCOUTING Celebrating the Adventure Continuing the Journey When you joined your Boy Scout troop you dreamed of going to camp…being an outdoorsman and experiencing the thrill of adventure with your friends. You wanted to be independent and share the outdoors with others.

This summer of 2009 we will be celebrating the 100 Years Of Scouting. You will learn about Daniel Carter Beard and Ernest Thompson Seton, two of the pioneers of the BSA. Dan Beard was a painter, illustrator and one of the founders of the BSA. He formed “The Society of the Sons of Daniel Boone” which developed into “The Boy Pioneers” which became a part of the Boy Scouts of America. He was the first National Commissioner and Chairman of the Court of Honor. Ernest Thompson Seton was a naturalist and a writer. In 1902 he organized the Woodcraft Indians for boys in order to encourage outdoor activities. He joined forces with other youth leaders to help form the BSA. He was Chief Scout in 1911 when the first Handbook for Boys was published, and wrote the sections on Nature and Tracks and Trailing in the first Handbook for Boys. The rest is History!!! Learn more this summer!!!

The first Scouts had the same dreams you have….to become an outdoorsman and experience the thrill of adventure with your friends. You want to be independent and share the outdoors with others.

Your dream can come true by attending one of the finest camps in the country, Camp Conestoga. You will have the greatest experience of your life with your friends, your troop, and your leaders—testing your skills, and learning new ones. It is the place to work on merit badges that are not easily earned at home. There are programs for Scouts of all ages and ranks. Look inside in the Special Pull-out section for more information. Our entire program offers Scouts a chance to CELEBRATE THE 100 YEARS OF SCOUTING AT CAMP CONESTOGA IN 2009. 2009 Camp Conestoga Staff Jack Waite will serve his fourth year as Camp Director in 2009. The staff will have some great programs to celebrate the anniversary, including events for Wednesday night (Parents Night). The highlight will be the Triathlon for three man teams from your patrols. We also will have patrol competition in Scouting events on the Parade Grounds on that night followed by a Rededication Ceremony highlighting the story of Daniel Beard and Ernest Thompson Seton. We need youth and adults for our staff this summer. Please fill out an application and return it to the Council Service Center as soon as possible. You can find applications at the Council Service Center or on our website www.wfbsa.org. Camp Staff interviews will be held beginning at the OA Banquet on February 28, 2009. Smoke Signals Page 2 Special Camp Edition

Camp Conestoga is located mid-way between Donegal and Somerset off Route 31, one and a half miles south of Bakersville, Pennsylvania in the beautiful Laurel Hill State Park. Our Scout Camp has been apprised as one of the best in the country. Camp Conestoga has been in operation for 60 years and is certified annually by the Boy Scouts of America to ensure that it meets the most stringent standards and is nothing less than the very CAMP CONESTOGA HAS SOME OF THE FINEST best. Camp Conestoga receives an “A” rating each year. FACILITIES IN THE COUNTRY TO OFFER ALL All Scouts in attendance will be in the very best of hands during SCOUTS…………….. their stay. A National Camp School Certified Director supervises each area. Each Staff member participates in a week-long training 4 Upon our 6-acre Ruth Rhoda Lake, you can row a program to properly prepare them for their tasks. A resident Health Officer is also on site 24 hours a day 7 days a week. boat, paddle a canoe, or sail a boat. Nothing has been over looked! We have made sure that your Scouts will have a SAFE and FUN experience during their stay 4 You can swim in our crystal clear swimming pool and with us. participate in Life Guard instruction. The pool and lake are staffed by certified responsible lifeguards. HOUSING: All Scouts and Leaders will be staying in Boy Scout issue 4 There are three ranges for you to work on the shooting wide wall canvas tents on wooden platforms. There are 2 sports merit badges – Archery, Rifle, and Shot Gun. metal cots per tent. It is necessary for all campers to bring All three ranges are maintained and supervised by cardboard or some type of padding to separate their Nationally Certified Camp School Instructors. sleeping bags from the metal springs. There is a pavilion, picnic tables, fire circle, and bulletin 4 Our Handicraft area is equipped with potters wheels, board located at each campsite. Running water and kilns, and leatherworking equipment for you to bathhouses are located near each campsite. Your campsite express your creative side. will be your home while you are at camp. You are expected to keep it clean. 4 The great outdoors is the classroom for you to experience the Nature and Scoutcraft areas. Both are run by nationally certified Camp School Directors.

4 Our Dining Hall rings with the sounds of after meal songs and cheers. Three hot meals are served daily. All but one meal is served in our Dining Hall, but Troops do have the option to cook as many meals as they like in their campsite.

4 You will have access to modern state of the art toilet and shower facilities available in camp for all campers. Hot water is plentiful.

4 Scouts will be able to buy a camp T-shirt, souvenirs, craft kits, supplies, and snacks in our well stocked Trading Post. Smoke Signals Page 3 Special Camp Edition

EBERLY SCOUT RESERVATION CAMPERSHIP GUIDELINES

CAMP CONESTOGA

The Campership Program is designed to aid, but not support, Scouts who would not be able to attend camp without financial assistance — remembering that A SCOUT IS THRIFTY and WORKS to pay his own way and helps others. In this day and age of unstable economic conditions it is crucial that units be active in a fundraising program and that all Scouts participate to earn money for camp and other activities. We will make every attempt to assist in your request but cannot guarantee financial aid. The awards will be CAMP CONESTOGA PARENTS/VISITORS NIGHT dependent upon the total amount of funding available, the income guidelines for eligibility, and the Scout’s, Parent’s, Parents/Visitors Night for the Boy Scout resident and the unit’s contribution toward the total camp fee. camp will be held every WEDNESDAY NIGHT. The Council Campership Committee will be considering your request on an individual basis. We ask COME JOIN US IN CELEBRATION OF that you fill out the form in full and return it to the Council THE 100 YEARS OF SCOUTING!! Service Center by April 13, 2009. Notification will be sent to you if you qualify. Money will be applied to the SCHEDULE OF EVENTS balance of your camp fees. Campership applications are available at the Council 4:30-6:00pm ...... Dinner (Cafeteria Style) Service Center. All parts of the application must be 6:30pm ...... Triathlon completed and turned in by April 13, 2009 in order to be eligible for a Campership. Incomplete applications will 7:15 pm ... Scouting Games Demo/Patrol Competition not be processed. 7:45pm ...... Parade of Flags/Rededication Ceremony 8:05 ...... OA Tapouts

It has been traditional for parents to bring picnic type foods or desserts and for the troop, parents, and guests to eat in the campsite; however, dinner will be available in the dining hall. The fee for dinner is $5.00 per person. Let your Scoutmaster know if you will be having dinner in the camp dining hall and the number of people attending. You may pay at the door.

FOR ALL PARENTS/VISITORS BRING ITEMS TO CAMP

YOU WILL NOT BE ABLE TO PARK IN OR CLOSE TO THE

CAMPSITE. ALL PARENTS/VISITORS SHOULD BE

PREPARED TO WALK AND TO MAKE SURE THE ITEMS

BEING BROUGHT TO CAMP ARE EASILY TRANSPORTED. Smoke Signals Page 4 Special Camp Edition

The Mini-Phil program is designed for older Scouts who are at least First Class, 14 years of age on or before June 1st 2009, and looking for a challenge. The Mini-Phil program will be offered every week during the season for Campers who have paid the regular Camp fee and would like to try something new and exciting.

This summer Camp Conestoga will offer a new twist to its High Adventure program. We will offer a different program every day of the week. A Scout may choose to participate in one or all of the programs. All programs with one exception will have an additional charge. Daily Schedule for Mini-Phil Monday Overnight Hike on the Laurel Highlands Trail No charge Tuesday Duckie Trip on the Lower Youghiogheny river $52.00 Wednesday Kayak Instruction $67.00 Thursday Climbing /Rappelling $67.00 Friday Mountain Bike Instruction $67.00

Transportation and meals will be provided. All Equipment will be provided. Some personal equipment will be required.

ALL SCOUTS WISHING TO PARTICIPATE IN THIS PROGRAM MUST MEET THE FOLLOWING CRITERIA. Scouts must be at least 14 years of age and have obtained the First Class rank. Scouts must be a Red, White and Blue Swimmer. Scouts must present a Class III medical form that has been signed by a physician in the past year. Scout must have prior approval from both their Scoutmaster and parent or guardian.

DUE TO THE PHYSICAL REQUIRMENTS OF THIS PROGRAM, IT MAY NOT BE SUITABLE FOR ALL SCOUTS. ALL SCOUTS IN QUESTION SHOULD CONSULT THEIR PHYSICAN.

Scouts may participate in this program individually. We will organize a patrol of 8 (6 youth and 2 adults) daily for these programs. The Mini-Phil participants will leave camp every morning and return before dinner. Except on Monday for the overnight hike on the Laurel Ridge Trail the participants will return to Camp after breakfast.

All activities are supervised by our fully licensed Wilderness Outfitter. All Scouts interested should see their Scoutmaster for more information, which is included in their 2009 Camp Leaders guide. A recommended personal equipment list and registration form will also be in the 2009 camp leaders guide. Scouts will register for this program along with the merit badges they wish to take. The reservation deadline for the Trek Program is MAY 8th 2009. Full fees for each program must be paid at that time.

A $50.00 discount will be given to the Scout or Adult who participates in all five programs during one week at Camp.

CAMP CONESTOGA CONTACT INFORMATION A camp telephone is available for business and emergency use All incoming mail should be addressed as follows: only. All parents wishing to contact a camper should call 814- 445-2018. A message will be delivered to the Scout. Camp Camper’s Name telephone is available for Scouts/Leaders to use in emergencies. It is a good idea for parents wishing to hear from their campers Troop # / Campsite to send them with a pre-paid phone card. Camp Conestoga There is a camp mail box that is checked each day and mail will be delivered at one of the daily meals. All campers can also 255 Conestoga Camp Road send mail as well; postcards and stamps will be available for purchase in our Trading Post. Parents sending mail should do Somerset, PA 15501 so early in the week to ensure its arrival. Smoke Signals Page 5 Special Camp Edition Eberly Scout Reservation 100th Anniversary of Scouting Commemorative Patch Set

Attend Eberly Scout Reservation as a fee paid participant and receive the annual “year” patch free of charge. The Commemorative Center Patch will be available for sale at the Camp Trading Post. Artwork for years 2009 thru 2010 is still being developed and will be released in March of each year. A limited number of patches will be produced each year, so be sure to sign up for camp early! Camp Conestoga Refund Policy

1. Deposit Fees are NON – REFUNDABLE. 2. Any fees paid over and above the non – refundable deposits may be refunded ONLY under the following conditions. ¾ The youth is approved for a campership after the payment is received. ¾ The youth can not attend camp due to a physician’s recommendation concerning illness, or injury. Cancellation is required at least 48 hours prior to his Troop’s arrival at camp. Notification must be made to the Camp Director either by mail or phone. ¾ The youth cannot attend camp due to a family emergency involving accidents or death in the family. Cancellation is required at least 48 hours prior to his Troop’s arrival at camp. Notification must be made to the Camp Director either by mail or phone. ¾ After the cancellation occurs, ALL REFUND REQUESTS must be submitted in writing to the Council Service Center within 30 days FROM THE SCHEDULED DATE OF ARRIVAL. All refund requests received later then 30 days will be denied. ¾ ALL REFUNDS WILL BE DISTRIBUTED TO THE UNIT. Smoke Signals Page 6 Special Camp Edition PHYSICALS, MEDICAL FORMS, AND 2009 Fee Structure SPECIAL ACCOMMODATIONS Reservation Fee – ALL SCOUTS ¾ BSA requirements state that ALL campers - youth and $50.00 PER BOY – Due in the Council Service Center by adults 39 or under bring with them a COPY of a MARCH 13, 2009. The troop will receive the discounted fee to be paid in completed Class 1 and 2 medical form. Adults 40 & full by May 8, 2009 for only the number of Scouts over must have a Class 3 medical form. This form must that the Troop has paid for $50 by this date. be current, and signed by a licensed physician. ¾ Bring only a COPY of your completed medical form. Exception will be Webelos Scout moving to the troop. BSA regulations require us to keep the copy that you They will receive the discounted price until May 8th. give us.We can not make photocopies of your medical This fee is necessary to hold the troop campsite and is credited form. toward the remaining balance. ¾ Medical forms are available at the Council Service This fee is NON – REFUNDABLE, but is transferable. Center, and a copy is located in your 2008 Camp Camp Fees – Westmoreland Fayette Council, Scouts Conestoga Leaders Guide. $265.00 PER BOY, PER WEEK, IF PAID IN FULL ¾ All special accommodations such as diet restrictions BY MAY 8, 2009. should be brought to the attention of the Camp $285.00 PER BOY, PER WEEK, IF PAID IN FULL AFTER MAY 8, 2009. Director at least 2 weeks before your scheduled arrival date. Camp Fees – Out of Council Scouts $285.00 PER BOY, PER WEEK, IF PAID IN FULL HEALTH LODGE BY MAY 8, 2009. Our modern state of the art Health Lodge is staffed by $305.00 PER BOY, PER WEEK, IF PAID IN FULL AFTER MAY 8, 2009. qualified fully licensed personnel 24 hours a day in order to provide immediate First Aid and to administer prescriptions Troop Fee and medications to campers and leaders. $25.00 per troop, this fee reserves the campsite, waived for new and out of council Troops. All medications are required to be checked-in and kept in the Health Lodge. Parents should send the medications and Eagle Camp Fee instructions with their son. The Scout then visits the Health $225. 00 PER BOY, PER WEEK OF CAMP. Lodge as needed to take their medication. All medication Second Week of Camp Fee left at camp after your Troop has checked out will be $225. 00 PER BOY, PER WEEK OF CAMP. DISCARDED. Provisional Camp Fee It is the Scout’s responsibility to see that he takes his medication $265. 00 PER BOY, PER WEEK as prescribed. Camp Fees – Units Cooking in their Campsite CAMP PROMOTION $205.00 PER BOY, PER WEEK, IF PAID IN FULL & INCENTIVES FOR 2009 BY MAY 8, 2009. $230.00 PER BOY, PER WEEK, IF PAID IN FULL AFTER Promotion-Goal to Increase Number of Youth Attending Camp MAY 8, 2009. 1. Incentive for Council Troops for 2009 Family Discount FEE FOR SECOND BOY SCOUT OR MORE ATTENDING A. If troop total enrollment on Sunday of their week CAMP FROM SAME FAMILY IS $225.00 PER SCOUT. at Camp exceeds their total of 2008, they will receive a credit for their unit account of $5.00 per Scout. Leader Fees The First 2 leaders for every unit are free. Beyond the initial 2 B. Example: Troop 123 had 15 at Camp in 2008. leaders, a ratio of 1 leader to every 8 scouts will allow an additional This year they have 16. They would receive leader to attend camp at no charge. Units bring more than 2 leaders $80.00 credit to their unit account. that do not meet the 1 to 8 ratio will be charged 1/2 the regular camper fee that applies, per additional leader. 2. Family Discount 01-16 Scouts = 2 Free Adults 17 –24 Scouts = 3 Free Adults 25 – 32 Scouts = 4 Free Adults 33 – 40 Scouts = 5 Free Adults A. Fee for second Boy Scout or more attending 41 – 48 Scouts = 6 Free Adults Camp Conestoga is $225.00 per Scout. B. The discount also applies to Cub Scouts if there is Beyond 48 Scouts the ration stays the same. an older brother who is going to Boy Scout Camp. One more free adult at 49, 57, 65, etc. Smoke Signals Page 7 Special Camp Edition

Are you interested in the experience of a lifetime? Be a part of the 2009 Camp Conestoga Staff Are you at least 14 years of age, and looking for a summer packed full of endless fun and excitement? Camp Conestoga is If you are interested in serving as a member of the 2008 currently accepting applications for several positions. If you are Camp Conestoga Staff, you can find an application at the interested in experiencing the summer of a lifetime and being Council Service Center or on the website - part of the 2009 Camp Conestoga Staff, contact the Council www.wfbsa.org. Service Center for your Camp Staff Application. We are also accepting applications for Counselors in Training. All CIT’s completing the CIT program will receive their week of camp 2009 SESSION DATES FREE. Cash bonus will be paid to all Eagle Scouts serving as Week 1 June 21st - June 27th members of the Camp Conestoga Staff. Week 2 June 28th - July 4th Minimum Age of 21 Week 3 July 5th - July 11th Program Director Week 4 July 12th - July 18th Field Sports Director Week 5 July 19th - July 25th COPE Director Week 6 July 26th - August 1st Trek Director Aquatics Director Ranger Provisional camp will operate all summer. Minimum Age of 18 Pool Director Scout Craft Director Lake Director Dining Hall Steward Nature Director Handicraft Director Assistant COPE Director WHAT TO BRING TO CAMP Assistant Ranger Please mark ALL Extra shorts DO NOT BRING! Pathfinder Director equipment and clothing with Toothbrush/toothpaste Fireworks your name and unit number. Shower/Personal toiletries Ammunition Minimum Age 15 Raincoat or poncho Boots or sturdy shoes Pets Aquatics Instructor Sleeping bag or blankets Extra underwear Sheath knives Pathfinder Instructor Pocket knife Jacket or sweatshirts Radios, tape players Fitness Instructor Flashlight Paper and pencils Extra batteries & bulb Footlocker Alcoholic Beverages Range Assistant Canteen Ground cloth Electronic games, Nature Instructor Rope Hiking stave equipment Quartermaster Matches Swim trunks Comic books Scoutcraft Instructor Fire Starters Pillow Playing cards Trading Post Clerk Eating utensils Insect repellant Video games Scout Handbook Archery Assistant Scout hat Cigarettes Scout Uniform Survival kit Kerosene or gas lanterns Age 14 Extra t-shirts Compass Cell phone Counselor In Training Extra socks Westmoreland Fayette Council Non Profit Org Boy Scouts of America U.S. Postage 2 Garden Center Drive PAID Greensburg, PA 15601 Greensburg, PA Permit No. 365

Look Inside for...

Mini-Phil------4

Merit BadgePull-out Opportunities------Section page 1

Eagle Camp------Pull-out Section page 4

ProvisionalPull-out Camp------Section page 3

Camp Fees------6 Camp Staff Positions Needed -- 7 High Adventure Mid-CenterScouting ------pages

LOCATION INFORMATION Camp Conestoga is located on Rt. 31 between Donegal & Somerset near the village of Bakersville, in Laurel Hill State Park

Traveling from Greensburg and Westmoreland County. . . Take Rt. 31 E. through Mt. Pleasant and Laurelville, up mountain (3 mile hill) to Donegal. Stay on Rt. 31 East. Travel approx. 8 mi. past Hidden Valley Ski Resort and Kooser State Park, both on the right. Watch for Laurel Mountain Inn on the right, and go approx. 1 mi. to Village of Bakersville. Passing on the right, Bakersville Vol. Fire Dept. On left watch for ‘Co-Go’ gas station. Turn right off of Rt. 31 opposite this store onto Jimtown Rd. Here there is a sign for Camp Conestoga/Buck Run. You will come to a ‘Y’ in the road, continue straight on Camp Conestoga Rd. for about 1 mi.

Traveling from Uniontown and Connellsville/Fayette County. . . Take Rt. 119 N. to the Sheetz gas station and turn right onto Rt. 982 N. to Laurelville. Turn right onto Rt. 31 East. Travel up mountain (3 mile hill) to Donegal. Stay on Rt. 31 E. travel approx. 8 mi. passing Hidden Valley Ski Resort, and Kooser State Park, both on the right. Watch for Laurel Mountain Inn on the right, and go approx. 1 mi. to Village of Bakersville. Passing on the right, Bakersville Vol. Fire Dept. On left watch for ‘Co-Go’ gas station. Turn right off of Rt. 31 opposite this store onto Jimtown Rd. Here there is a sign for Camp Conestoga/ Buck Run. You will come to a ‘Y’ in the road, continue straight on Camp Conestoga Rd. for about 1 mi.

Traveling from Pennsylvania Turnpike. . . Exit at the Donegal/Ligonier Exit 9. Turn left onto Rt. 31 E. and go approx. 10 mi. to Bakersville. Passing on the right, Bakersville Vol. Fire Dept. On left watch for ‘Co-Go’ gas station. Turn right off of Rt. 31 opposite this store onto Jimtown Rd. Here there is a sign for Camp Conestoga/Buck Run. You will come to a ‘Y’ in the road, continue straight on Camp Conestoga Rd. for about 1 mi. CampCamp ConestogaConestoga 20092009 High Adventure Starts At Camp!

This pull-out section brought to you by Wagion Lodge #6 Order of the Arrow,Camp Promotions Team

Camp Conestoga offers Scouts a great environment to work on merit badges that you need to achieve the Eagle rank. With a crystal clear swimming pool, a 6-acre lake complete with sail boats, a handicraft building, ecology and conservation area, a scoutcraft area and modern rifle and shotgun ranges, you will have the opportunity to earn merit badges that are not easily earned at home. The badges listed below are offered weekly at Camp Conestoga. Most badges can be completed during your stay, but some require the completion of pre-requisite requirements. These pre-requisites must be completed before you come to camp in order for you to earn the merit badge while at camp. Some merit badges also require an additional cost for program supplies. All merit badge pre-requisites and costs will be listed in the 2009 Camp Leaders Guide. All Scoutmasters will receive a copy of this guide in the early spring of 2009. Additional merit badges may be offered depending on the abilities of the camp staff and the participation of camp leaders. You will be notified of all additional merit badges being offered at camp upon your arrival. ALL SCOUTS SHOULD CONSULT WITH THEIR SCOUTMASTER ABOUT THEIR MERIT BADGE SELECTIONS. SCOUTS SHOULD CHOOSE AT LEAST 3 MERIT BADGES. SCOUTS SHOULD COME PREPARED TO LEARN, AND HAVE ALL MERIT BADGE PRE-REQUISITES COMPLETED AS LISTED IN THE 2009 CAMP LEADERS’ GUIDE.

Archery Fishing Photography Art First-Aid Pioneering Athletics Fish & Wildlife Management Pottery Astronomy Fly Fishing Reptile & Amphibian Study Back Packing Forestry Rifle Geology Rowing Basketry Hiking Small Boat Sailing Bird Study Indian Lore Shotgun Shooting Camping Leather Work Soil & Water Conservation Canoeing Life Saving Space Exploration Climbing Mammal Study Sports Communications Nature Swimming Emergency Preparedness Oceanography Weather Environmental Science Orienteering Wilderness Survival Fingerprinting Personal Fitness Wood Carving

In addition to Merit Badges, Camp Conestoga offers several age-specific programs. For New Scouts- The PATHFINDER Program For Scouts 13 & older- Project C.O.P.E. For Scouts 14 & older- Eagle Camp, Mini Phil PLUS- Provisional Camp ~ Keep reading to find out more! Smoke Signals Page 2 - Pull-Out Section Special Camp Edition

The PATHFINDER PROGRAM capitalizes on all the aspects that Camp Conestoga has to offer a young Scout in a fun, high- spirited atmosphere. This program is designed for Scouts who are the rank of Scout or Tenderfoot so they can achieve the outdoor requirements for First Class during their stay at camp. All Pathfinder participants will spend the week strengthening their outdoor skills, practicing first-aid, lashing, orienteering and swimming. All Scouts will also participate in a 5-mile hike.

All Scouts will have a great well-rounded learning experience while getting the chance to become acquainted with Camp Conestoga and the Boy Scout summer camping experience. The Pathfinder Program operates daily all morning. After the program has ended for the day all Scouts participating in the program will then have the opportunity to attend regularly scheduled merit badge sessions.

Back by popular demand for 2009, Project C.O.P.E. (Challenging Outdoor Personal Experience) has returned to Camp Conestoga to once again offer Scouts the chance to experience one of Scouting’s high adventure programs. Project C.O.P.E. is designed for Scouts age 13 and up (by June 1st 2009) and who have completed the rank of First Class, to build confidence and positive attitudes towards life’s challenges. The Scouts accomplish these goals through activities such as TRUST FALLS, INITATIVE GAMES, and COMPLETING CAMP CONESTOGA’S LOW ELEMENTS C.O.P.E. COURSE. All Scouts participating also have the opportunity to experience Camp Conestoga’s own. NOTE: C.O.P.E. is scheduled to run for the entire afternoon, so the Merit Badge opportunities for those Scouts will be limited to those held in the morning.

Transportation and meals will be provided. All Equipment will be provided. Some personal equipment will be required. For a more complete description of Mini-Phil, refer to the Mini-Phil section of this edition of Smoke Signals. Smoke Signals Page3 - Pull-Out Section Special Camp Edition

Additional Opportunities

Listed below are other opportunities for Boy Scouts and Leaders to improve their skills during their stay at Camp Conestoga. These awards are NOT MERIT BADGES, but do require additional work. All camp leaders should check the daily newsletter for the specific starting times and locations of each activity.

Firem’n Chit- This program will instruct Scouts how to properly build and safely care for fire. All Scouts completing this program will receive a Firem’n Chit certification card. Note: ONLY PART OF THE PATHFINDER PROGRAM

Totin’ Chip- The Totin’ Chip program will demonstrate proper handling, care, and use of the knife, saw, and ax to all Scouts who participate. Scouts will also learn about respecting the outdoors and subscribing to the Outdoor Code. All Scouts participating in this program will receive a Totin’ Chip card. Note: ONLY PART OF THE PATHFINDER PROGRAM

Mile Swim- This program is open to Scouts and Leaders. Both Scouts and Leaders will spend the week training each morning before breakfast. All participants must attend each morning in order to be eligible to do the mile. All Scouts and Leaders who want to participate in the program must be a red, white, and blue swimmer. All campers who successfully complete the mile swim will receive a certification card.

BSA Lifeguard- the BSA Lifeguard is a lifeguard certification. This certification is open to all Leaders and Scouts who are red, white and blue swimmers. All Scouts participating in the BSA Lifeguard program must first complete Swimming, Lifesaving, Canoeing and Rowing Merit Badges. This program requires Scouts to act as lifeguards while at summer camp. Scouts participating in the program will have limited time for other Merit Badges. The BSA Lifeguard program is conducted daily; all Scouts and Leaders must attend all five days.

Snorkeling- The BSA Snorkeling certification is offered to all Scouts who have completed the red, white, and blue swimmers test. This program meets daily and instructs Scouts in the fundamentals of safe and proper snorkeling techniques. All Scouts successfully completing the snorkeling program receive a certification card.

Safe Swim Defense/ Safety Afloat- Safe Swim Defense/ Safety Afloat instructs adult leaders on the safety aspects involved in swimming and boating activities. Safe Swim Defense/ Safety Afloat is offered weekly. Leaders should refer to the daily newsletter and meal-time announcements for scheduled times. Those completing this program will receive a certification card.

Climb On Safely- the Climb On Safely program teaches adult leaders the safety fundamentals in planning BSA sponsored climbing/rappelling activities. Climb on Safely is a one-time session offered weekly. Leaders should refer to the daily newsletter

and meal-time announcements for scheduled times. Those completing this program will receive a certification card.

○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○ Provisional Camp 2009 Season at Camp Conestoga

Do you think one week of camp is exciting? Is your troop camping somewhere else this summer? Will you be on vacation during your troop’s week at camp? If this is the case, then don’t miss out on the True Scouting Experience 2009. Join us at provisional camp for your chance to experience all that Camp Conestoga has to offer. The camp will provide adult leadership for provisional camp- all that’s missing is you!

Provisional Camp Fees: 1st week at Camp Conestoga in 2009- $265.00. 2nd week at Camp Conestoga in 2009- $225.00

Registration form can be found on the next page. Smoke Signals Page 4 - Pull-Out Section Special Camp Edition

July 5- July 11, 2009 Camp Conestoga Total Fee: $225.00 Registration Fee: $50.00 due upon registration Balance of $150.00 must be paid by May 8, 2009

Deadline for Registration: May 8, 2009

Registration: Limited to First Class, Star and Life Scouts who previously attended or will attend 2009 Summer Camp at Camp Conestoga or a previous 2009 unit long-term experience at another council camp.

Program: Merit Badges offered: Citizenship in the Nation, Citizenship in the Community, Citizenship in the World, Communications, Personal Management, and Family Life. (Scouts will sign up to take at least two, but not more than four of these badges.)

During their stay at Eagle Camp, Scouts will be going on a variety of field trips that are specifically designed to meet the requirements of those badges offered. The Scouts shall be required to attend specific program designed for the Eagle Camp.

Further program information for the Eagle Camp will be forwarded to the individual campers following registration.

Provisional Camp/ Eagle Camp Registration Form

______I would like to register for EAGLE CAMP- July 5-11, 2009

______I would like to register for PROVISIONAL CAMP during these dates: _____ June 21-27 _____ June 28- July 4_____ July 5-11 _____ July 12-18 _____ July 19-25 _____ July 26-Aug. 1

Scout Name ______

Address ______

Phone ______Unit # ______District ______

Parent/Guardian Signature ______

Scoutmaster Approval (only for Eagle Camp) ______

______Registration fee ($50.00) enclosed. Balance must be paid before May 8, 2009.

Mail to: Westmoreland-Fayette Council 2 Garden Center Drive Greensburg, Pa 15601 HighHigh AAdvdventurenturee ScoutingScouting

Westmoreland Fayette Council 2009 Boy Scouts of America High Adventure Rally Wednesday, April 22, 2009 ~ 7:00 p.m. ~ Location to Be Announced TO: Scouts and Parents FROM: Ross Bash, Council High Adventure Chairman

We invite all Boy Scouts and their parents and all Boy Scout Leaders to attend a High Adventure Rally to be held Wednesday, April 22, 2009 at 7:00 PM at a location to be determined. Please watch for an announcement of the location in the Council Newsletter, the “Smoke Signals.”

At the rally the High Adventure Committee will outline all the High Adventure activities to be conducted for the next few years. We will have displays highlighting Philmont Scout Reservation, Florida Sea Base, Northern Tier High Adventure canoe base and National Scout Jamboree.

We will discuss the Philmont signup for a Troop Contingent in 2010. If you are interested in the Troop Philmont Contingent please be prepared to register that evening with a $50 deposit per person.

We will continue the 2010 National Scout Jamboree registration at this meeting. The Westmoreland Fayette Council is organizing three troops for participation in the National Scout Jamboree.

All Scouts and their parents and all Scout Leaders should attend this meeting if they have any interest in any High Adventure activity.

We’ll see you at this fun, and informative important meeting!

Watch for more information in the Council Newsletter, the “Smoke Signals.” Northern Tier - High Adventure Base Imagine paddling a canoe on the Boundary Waters of Minnesota, USA . Better yet, imagine paddling the Boundary Waters with your best friends!

Crews have a chance to explore the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness in northeastern Minnesota in the greatest wilderness canoeing area in the United States! Learn skills handed down from the Native American, fur-trapper, and Voyageur. Crews of varying skill levels will be challenged at their level. It is a very flexible program.

To participate in High Adventure programs operated by Northern Tier, a participant must be a registered Boy Scout, Varsity Scout, or Venturer. Boy Scouts must have attained the age of 13 by July 1 of the year they attend. Troops can arrange for a crew to attend together as a troop.

Northern Tier High Adventure Base Interest Form

Name______Email______

Address______Phone______

Position ______Unit #______

Please send me the latest information on a Northern Tier Adventure.

Send to: Westmoreland Fayette Council 2 Garden Center Drive Greensburg, PA 15601 High Adventure Scouting Page 2 Special Edition 2010 National Scout Jamboree July 26 - August 4, 2010

The 17th National Scout Jamboree will be held July 26 – August 4, 2010, at Fort A.P. Hill, near Fredericksburg, Virginia. The Jamboree will celebrate 100 Year of Scouting.

The 2010 National Scout Jamboree – 73 years after the first BSA National Jamboree held in 1937 in Washington, DC – will be the eighth and final Jamboree at the 76,000 acre U.S. Army Facility located between Richmond, Virginia, and the nations’ Capitol.

Cost: $1,300 for Scouts $1,000 for Adult Leaders

Qualifications: Be a Scout who has completed the sixth grade or is at least 12 years of age and is a First Class Scout by July 1, 2010, but not have reached his 18th birthday by August 4, 2010. Participate in the pre-jamboree training experience. File a personal health and medical record prior to the pre-jamboree training. Have been active in a troop for at least 6 months prior to July 1, 2010. Be approved by his Scoutmaster or Varsity Scout Coach. Be approved by the local council.

Organization: The Jamboree is open to all who are qualified on a first come, first served basis. After our troops have been filled, a standby list of alternates will be established. Scouts will be assigned to a Jamboree troop consisting of 36 Scouts and 4 adult leaders. You will be a member of a patrol within the troop. The council contingent will consist of 3 troops. We currently have 2 troops filled. Sign-ups will be based on a first come, first served basis with the reservation fee paid.

Application: The 2010 National Scout Jamboree will use an online application for all Scouts, leaders and jamboree staff applicants desiring to attend the Jamboree. You must complete an online application. It is accessed through www.BSAJamboree.org. Applicants will need to use their BSA ID number located on their membership card to access the application Web site. The initial application fee is $10. This fee is nonrefundable and does apply to the registration fee.

Scouts and individuals applying to be part of a council contingent will be directed to print a confirmation and send it to the council with a $200 deposit. The confirmation will state that their application must be accepted by their Council and does not guarantee participation.

Payment schedule: Reservation fee (due at time for application) $200.00 By January 31, 2009 200.00 By March 31, 2009 200.00 By May 31, 2009 200.00 By July 31, 2009 200.00 By September 30, 2009 200.00 By October 31, 2009 100.00

Failure to keep current on your payments will result in forfeiture of your participation and reassignment to an alternate.

Fees include: The Jamboree fee covers all transportation, meals, patrol and troop equipment, as well as insurance. Your fee also covers the training camp before the Jamboree. Additional expense will be your personal equipment, uniforms and spending money.

Refund policy: If you sign up for the Jamboree and then find that you cannot attend, you will receive a full refund from the Westmoreland Fayette Council only if there is an alternate to take your place. In the event that there is not an alternate, a partial refund will be made. This includes the fees you have paid to date less any expenses related to contractual agreements made on your behalf.

Return applications to: For more information contact: National Jamboree Committee Jack Waite, Jamboree Staff Advisor Westmoreland Fayette Council, BSA Phone: 724-837-1630 2 Garden Center Drive E-mail: [email protected] Greensburg, PA 15601 High Adventure Scouting Page 3 Special Edition Philmont 2010

Philmont is 137,493 acres of challenging Scout adventure set in among the mountains and mesas of Northeastern New Mexico. Philmont’s mountain terrain ranges in elevation from 6,660 feet at headquarters to 12, 441 at the top of Mt. Baldy. Wildlife is abundant on Philmont’s forested mountains and grassy plains.

Explore the Philmont high-country on a 12-day backpacking expedition. Experience the thrill of climbing mountains over two miles high. Learn technical rock climbing, archaeological excavation techniques, and black-smithing. Relive the by-gone days of the Old West as you ride a Western saddle horse, learn the ways of the mountain man, pack burros and pan for gold in a clear mountain stream. Discover the wonder of Scouting’s paradise as over 650,000 Scouts and leaders have since 1939.

A Scout must be 14 by January 1 or completed 8th grade prior to participation. A crew is 7 -12 people including 2 leaders.

The Westmoreland-Fayette Council has 2 crews attending with 24 spaces available now. Because of the tremendous demand for Philmont expeditions local troops will not be able to get reservation. Troops may book a crew as a part of the 48 spaces in the Troop Contingent we have for 2010.

Costs of the contingent will be set by Troops but will be in excess of $1,700. If your troop is interested in attending, please fill out the form printed below with a $50 deposit to hold your place. For more information contact Ross Bash, Council High Adventure Chairman at 724-468-8600 or 724-668-7175, or call Jack Waite at the Council Service Center, 724-837-1630.

PHILMONT RESERVATION PROCEDURES 2010

A. Troops that wish to attend Philmont as part of the Troop contingent in the year 2010 need to do the following:

Confirm the size of the group with a $50 per person non-refundable deposit by April 1, 2009. Your group must number 10 to 12 including a minimum of 2 (preferably 3) adults.

Philmont 2010 Reservation Form

Troop Number ______Town______

Leader Name______Phone ______

Email:______

Please reserve spaces for______# youth and ______# Adults for a Troop Philmont expedition.

Return to:

Philmont 2010 Westmoreland Fayette Council BSA 2 Garden Center Drive Greensburg, PA 15601

Deadline is April 1, 2009. High Adventure Scouting Page 4 Special Edition The Florida Sea Base

OUT ISLAND ADVENTURE You will live as Robinson Crusoe on the Out Island Adventure which combines camping on a remote 100 acre island, snorkeling on pristine coral reefs, trolling for sportfish, kayaking through red mangroves, and exploring the flora and fauna of Big Munson Island. You will wade ashore on Big Munson Island carrying all the food, water and equipment used during your adventure in a rugged camping setting. Venture out to snorkel, fish and explore. A program mate will remain with you for the duration of your trip to assist you in appreciating this unique environment. This is a true high-adventure program, one that combines physical challenge with excitement and adventure. If your crew has strong camping skills and enjoys rugged camping, then the Out Island program is for you. Crew members must be 14 years of age by September 1 of the year of participation. This is a seven day event.

SEA EXPLORING (Keys Tall Ship) Designed for larger groups (either a council contingent or a larger troop), offering your crew the opportunity to experience a sailing adventure of yesteryear. The vessel is a 83-foot, gaff-rigged topsail schooner, fully equipped and prepared to provide an unforgettable adventure snorkeling the beautiful Keys' reefs, fishing, and hands-on sailing.

For a hands-on sailing adventure voyage, one that is exciting, ruggedly challenging, and excellent for larger groups, pack your sea bag for the Sea Exploring program. Crew members must be 14 years of age by September 1 of the year of participation. This is an eight day event.

CORAL REEF SAILING A 40- to 50-foot sailing yacht will become your home for a week. It has a large self-contained galley and dining area where you will prepare wholesome meals from the fresh or canned foods supplied by Sea Base, supplemented by fresh catches from trolling while underway.

Your captain will instruct you in navigation, fishing and sailing, and will remain on board for the entire trip. You choose your own float plan to explore the beautiful Florida Keys. This trip offers one-of-a-kind snorkeling and abundant fishing. Crew members must be 14 years of age by September 1 of the year of participation. This is a seven day event.

SCUBA ADVENTURE Come dive the coral reefs and wrecks of the Florida Keys. Designed for certified divers, this program offers nine dives (weather permit- ting). Explore the only living coral reef system in the USA, diving sites like Alligator or Tennessee Reef, exploring uncharted dive sites, up and down the Keys, or adding to Sea Base's own artificial reef.

Your dive itinerary features a night dive, a deep dive (to 60 feet), marine life studies, and other underwater adventures. All food, lodging and equipment is included. You must be a certified diver to participate in this adventure, and crew members must be 14 years of age by date of attendance. This is an eight-day event. Explicit health concerns require a special medical acceptance in this program.

Visit the website to learn more about reserving adventures at Florida Sea Base - http://www.bsaseabase.org/

Base Blessing Bless the creatures of the Sea, bless this person I call me. Bless the Keys you made so grand, bless the sun that warms the land. Bless the fellowship we feel as we gather for this meal. Amen