School Night for Scouting!

The whole Southern New Jersey Council will be using a new approach to recruiting Cub Scouts this Fall with a one night coordinated recruiting program on Wednesday, September 23, 2009.

Camden, Cape May, Cumberland, Gloucester, and Salem Counties will ALL be recruiting the same night with recruiting stations set up at every available elementary school in the Council.

We’re planning on really capturing the attention of the public by focusing publicity on the one coordinated night approach.

Please help spread the word anyway you can i.e. through local newspapers, school TV programs, church bulletins, lawn signs, and flyers.

Reserve this date in your local school’s calendar now for 6:30 PM to 8:00 PM plus, the Council’s representatives will be contacting individual School Superintendents throughout the summer to request cooperation.

The Southern New Jersey Council will be printing free flyers to help you promote this sign-up night to your local elementary school students.   Just get your District Executive the name and phone number and/or e-mail address of a key adult contact you want listed on your flyers for prospective families to call if necessary.

You’ll be hearing lots more about this throughout the summer via your District’s Membership Committees and Commissioner Staffs.

Web portal wins national award!

A panel of national judges has selected the Southern New Jersey Council's new web portal as outstanding and have selected it as the winner of the 11th annual National BSA President's Award for Marketing Excellence.  This prestigious award recognizes all the hard work put in by dozens of volunteer and professional staff members over the many months they worked to ensure that our new web portal not only meets the needs of our customers but is professional and well done.

We thank Pat Purdy, the new web portal chair, for all the time and effort she put into this project.  Keeping such a large group of talented people on task and on schedule was at time like herding cats... but the end product is outstanding.

"Building a web portal that was easy to use, met the needs of all of our customers, and represented our brand consistently was our goal" said Jim Hans, Scout Executive of the Southern New Jersey Council.  "This recognition helps validate that we have succeeded in meeting those goals."

The Southern new Jersey Council began development of its new web portal in August 2008 and launched the new site on December 31, 2008.  Dozens of volunteers and staff members worked on the project.  The web portal will continue to grow as new features are added.

For those of you who haven't visited the Southern New Jersey Scout Shop in Millville recently, please stop in and say hello to the new Manager, Teresa Krus. Teresa is a long time volunteer with Troop 4 in Millville, the mother of three Life Scouts, Chris , Matt and Nick Cincotti and very active in the Order of the Arrow.

Please note, Summer hours are now in effect, which means the Shop is open from 9:30 am to 6:00 PM, Monday through Friday. If there's something you would like the store to carry, please let us know and we'll do our best to accommodate your request.

Stop in and check out the 100th Anniversary merchandise and a beautiful mural commissioned by the Detroit Council entitled "A Century of Values". The mural features a collection of images from the inception of Scouting in America in 1910 up through the present day. Copies are available by special order at a cost of $75.00. 

 MyScouting---is the 24/7 National Virtual Service Center that is bringing to one place all of the electronic and applications of the Boy Scouts of America. This portal is available to every BSA registered volunteer and scout over the age of 13. Currently the. My Scouting is the host for:

* On-Line Training Center
* On-line Tour Permits
* Internet Advancement
* Internet Re-chartering
* Commissioner Visitation
* Scouting Parents
* The Scouting Community (a face book like site for Scouting groups)
* National Events (Jamboree, Philmont Training Center, National Meeting)

To access MyScouting a person goes to www.snjscouting.org and on the top line of the council portal click the words MyScouting  and you are sent to the national site.

To create your account you will need your BSA membership number and the SNJC council number which is 334. Once you have completed the log-in procedures you can then access all of the features of MyScouting. 

If you need help logging in call the BSA National help desk 1-800-637-3025.

TWO DEEP LEADERSHIP—All trips need to have at least two adult leaders of which needs to be over the age of 21 attending. In order to comply with maintaining two deep leadership standards for most trips you really need at least four adults. This way should something happen you always still have two leaders with the scouts who remain.

AUTOMOBILE INSURANCE—the BSA recommends that every driver carry insurance limits of $50.000/$100,000/$50,000. If a driver carries less insurance than that it is not recommended that they be a driver for scouts other than their own child.

VALID DRIVER LICENSE--it seems obvious but make sure the person driving has a current and valid driver's license.

 THERE ARE THREE TYPES OF BSA & LEARNING FOR LIFE/EXPLORING TOUR PERMITS:

LOCAL TOUR PERMITS—need to be submitted two weeks before your departure date and are now done on-line at MyScouting

NATIONAL TOUR PERMITS—must be completed when your trip is more than five hundred miles one way or you are attending a BSA High Adventure Activity, These permits also require regional approval so you must submit those six weeks before your travel date. You also do these on-line

FLYING TOUR PERMITS--a specialized tour permit for this type of activity that is done using the printed version,

As you complete your tour permit you should be aware of the following

BSA SAFE SCOUTING GUIDELINES—Your activity must comply with the current edition. Packs are not able to do everything a Boy Scout troop can do. Be sure to check the box that you familiar with these guidelines.

PERMISSION SLIPS—you need to have permission slips from parents of Scouts. Venturers and Explorers who plan to drive must have a permission slip not only from their parent that they are aware he/she is driving; but also from the parent of the person driving and must comply with State of New Jersey Teen Driving Regulations. Again make sure the box is checked that you have obtained permission slips

HEALTH HISTORY—when traveling, especially for camping and treks leaders should have copies of the current BSA Health History for Scouts and Leaders.

CUB SCOUT PACKS—must camp at approved Cub Scout Camping facilities (to have a facility approved contact the SNJC Program and Camping Director),

ACTIVITY TRAINING COURSES--To complete a BSA Tour permit at least one adult over the age of 21 must complete the following Activity Training Courses. These courses can be taken at the BSA On-Line Learning Center located at MyScouting and are valid for two years.

• Youth Protection
• Weather Hazards
• Safe Swim Defense If your trip involves swimming in any body of water.
• Trek on Safely If you are taking any kind of trek—on foot or by bike.
• Safety Afloat any on the water activity—canoing boating, rafting, kayaking
• Climb On Safely If you are climbing or repelling
• BALOO for Cub Scout Leaders—Basic Adult Leader Outdoor Orientation—for pack camping at least one person must complete this 6-hour training course. This is a SNJC live/in-person course that is offered in the fall and spring,

Tour permits go On-Line---one of the best electronic innovations the BSA has launched is its new On-Line Tour permits. The new system is used for all local and national tour permits for Cub Scouts, Boy Scouts, Venturing, Varsity, Sea Scouts, Exploring and Learning for life. 

To access the tour permits you go to http://www.snjscouting.organd click the words MyScouting site (located on the top line) and either log-in or create your MyScouting account.  The first time you go to MyScouting you will need to click the words Modify My Account. Once on your account page make sure there is a mark in the box for tour permits which will then insert the words Tour Permits with the other listings. 

Everything that you do for the new on-line tour permit is done on-line and then saved and always on the web. Units enter the driver and training course information and then save it. This way the info is available for subsequent tour permits and can easily be. Then when a unit needs to complete a tour permit all they need to do is provide the information for the trip, select the drivers and leaders attending and then click the submit button. The tour permit is then sent electronically to the Southern New Jersey Council where your district executive will approve it and return it via email. 

Another great feature is should you forget your tour permit and arrive at a destination that needs to see the approved permit---you can just go on-line and print another one. With this innovation the SNJC has stopped accepting tour permits that are submitted on paper and mailed, faxed or brought to SNJC. 

Be sure and learn how to use this new MyScouting feature. If you have a problem contact either your district executive or call the BSA National help desk 1-800-637-3025.

For an Adobe copy of How to Do Electronic Tour Permits click the underlined words

To view a Power Point  Presentation about Electronic Tour Permits click the underlined words

Mike McCormick, Assistant Scoutmaster for Troop 48 at  Holy Communion Lutheran Church in Berlin recently received word that one of Troop 48's own, Joseph E. Palaia (Eagle Scout Class of 1998), is heading to the Arctic as part of a scientific research expedition aimed at preparing people to explore the planet Mars. Joe is the Vice President and founding member of the Four Frontiers Corporation (http://www.4frontierscorp.com/), a company founded to push for the manned exploration and possible colonization of outer space.

Mike said, "Joe, who I was in Scouts with for five years, recently donated his old Scout vest filled with patches that he had gathered as a Scout, which is currently on display in the shed. It's hard to believe that a kid who attended Pine Hill Scout Reservation Summer Camp and participated in a winter camping program at Camp Rodney is headed to the arctic."

There are many more success stories of how Scouting has made a difference in the lives of young men and their families.  If you have a story and a photo please email it to development director.

Our communities are better places to live, work, and play because of leadership - expressed in extraordinary acts of service - by Scouts, Scouters, and Scouting volunteers over generations.

“We want to  gather  these powerful stories and share the significant positive impact Scouting leadership has on the quality of life in the communities we serve “ said Jim Hans, Scout Executive. “That’s why the BSA has created the National Hall of Leadership as part of our 100th Anniversary Celebration.”

The BSA 100th Anniversary National Hall of Leadership is not a hall or building in the traditional sense, like the Baseball Hall of Fame in Cooperstown, but its purpose is just as significant. The National Hall of Leadership is an opportunity for anyone to recognize outstanding leadership by a Scout, registered leader or Scouting volunteer who made a significant difference in the life of another by the extraordinary service they have given and the Scouting virtues they have modeled. 

To be nominated for the National Hall of Leadership, the nominee must be a living Scout or Scouting volunteer who may/may not be officially registered with the BSA.

They also must have served as an active Scout or Scouting volunteer within Scouting for at least one year. A nominee may be young or old-there is no age limit for nominees.

Nominations are submitted online in the form of a story that is 450 words or less, describing why the person is deserving of this one-time honor.

The nomination period opened on February 8, 2009, and closes on February 8, 2010, the 100th Anniversary of Scouting. The final inductees to the National Hall of Leadership will total 303-one representing each BSA council and one selected by the National BSA Council-and will be announced at the BSA National Annual Meeting in Dallas in May 2010.

“It truly benefits Scouting in every community when we   gather and share these stories of Scouting leadership making uncommon differences through very common acts of service.,” said Jim Hans, Scout Executive “This is a great way for Scouts, leaders, alumni, family,  friends, and any other person to join-in the BSA 100th Anniversary Celebration.”

All of the stories submitted for National Hall of Leadership nominations are retained in an online database, and will be accessible for councils to use as examples of the practical and positive difference Scouting makes in every community.

“In addition to honoring the service and leadership of our Scouts and Scouters,  the Hall of Leadership will provide our council a valuable online resource of testimonials to share at fundraising, recruiting, public speaking events, and other uses to help attract new volunteers and supporters  to keep council programs lively, strong and growing,” said Jim Hans, Scout Executive. “We want to encourage as many people as possible to participate in submitting nominations.”

Want to help spread the word? Contact Jodi Stark to get tools to promote the National Hall of Leadership program and encourage people to submit nominations. You can start by simply encouraging them to visit the Hall of Leadership section at www.Scouting.org/100years to learn more about the nomination process.  

Nearly every youth experiences Scouting with members of their family. Scouting provides the opportunity to strengthen ties between family members, create great family memories, and develop a shared family foundation of worthwhile virtues and values. The 100th Anniversary Generations Connection program celebrates Scouting’s legacy and its positive impact on American families through a program centered on the enduring symbol of the tree.  

By visiting the Generations Connection section at www.scouting.org/100years, you will find fun and meaningful outlets for participation in the program. Explore your Scouting family tree, share your family story, or, thanks to an exciting partnership with the Arbor Day Foundation, plant an official 100^th Anniversary tree … to help grow a new BSA Centennial Forest. Visit the Web site and learn more today!

For 100 years, families throughout the country have realized the powerful benefits that participation in Scouting brings. Help us honor this legacy, and commit to supporting 100 more years of strong youth and families!

For nearly a century, we have been preparing generations of leaders by guiding youth on a solid path toward becoming great citizens, role models, stewards, and friends. Millions have passed through Scouting’s ranks, and millions more have supported them along the way.

As we prepare for our 2010 Anniversary, we are committed to inspiring, engaging, and empowering the entire Scouting community to participate in this milestone event. That includes millions of Scouting alumni.

Through the BSA Alumni Connection program, Scouting alumni are invited to come back, make a new connection, and take an active role in Scouting again. That group includes not just former Scouts, but also their family members, volunteers, professional Scouters, community leaders, and the tens of millions of Americans who have benefited from Scouting.

When Scouting alumni visit www.BSAalumni.org, they gain access to a host of activities. They can search for Scouting friends and mentors, upload photos and stories onto an online scrapbook, make donations that directly benefit Scouts in Southern New Jersey, and learn how to get involved in 100th Anniversary activities and events. They will even be able to do something that, for the past 100 years, only active Scouts could do—earn a series of commemorative patches.      

 “The goal of the BSA Alumni Connection program is to have the people whose lives have been positively impacted by Scouting demonstrate their dedication and commitment to the next generation of Scouts,” said Jim Hans, Scout Executive. “This is their opportunity to impact Scouting’s next century.”

The program also has direct benefits for our council, districts, and units. When alumni from the Southern New Jersey Council reconnect, we receive their contact information and other data. Our hope is to engage them as volunteers, donors, and ambassadors for Scouting in the Southern New Jersey area.

Contact Jodi Stark to get tools to connect with Scouting alumni you meet. Start by encouraging them to visit www.BSAalumni.org and reconnect.

Earn a Special 100th Anniversary Leadership Award

A Year of Celebration – A Century of Making a Difference is an awards program specially developed for the 100^th Anniversary of the Boy Scouts of America for all Scouts, adult volunteers and Scouting alumni.   The first of the five awards is based on the BSA core value of Leadership. It is represented by a 2” award marker that hangs from a uniquely designed 3” square program patch. The patch itself is patterned after the official 100^th Anniversary emblem. Individuals will be able to display all earned awards at the same time on their uniforms by attaching award markers to the patch.

Scouting has a proud tradition of producing great leaders. Self-determination, teamwork and preparedness are synonymous with Scouts everywhere. This Leadership award encourages Scouts to explore and reflect upon the qualities of a good leader. Scouts earning this award will look to role models, lead groups and participate in leadership building activities. Adults and alumni will build their unit leadership skills by emphasizing membership growth, volunteering and providing role models.

Awards may be earned as of September 1, 2009 through December 31, 2010.

There are five requirements for each age group. All you have to do is accomplish at least three of the five requirements to earn the award. You may want to do all five requirements, but three is all that you’ll need to qualify for the award.

This program will provide every Scout, leader and alumnus a fun and meaningful way to participate in the 100^th Anniversary. Each individual participating will benefit, as will every unit and community in the country. Go to www.scouting.org/100years for more information on this and many more 100^th Anniversary programs.

Earn a Special 100th Anniversary Achievement Award

A Year of Celebration – A Century of Making a Difference is an awards program specially developed for the 100^th Anniversary of the Boy Scouts of America for all Scouts, adult volunteers and Scouting alumni.  The second of the five awards is based on the BSA core value of Achievement. It is represented by a 2” award marker that hangs from a uniquely designed 3” square program patch. The patch itself is patterned after the official 100^th Anniversary emblem. Individuals will be able to display all earned awards at the same time on their uniforms by attaching award markers to the patch.

Achievement in Scouting builds self-esteem and fosters collaboration with others. With every rank advanced and award earned, Scouts develop pride in themselves and their units. More than just getting a patch, Scouting’s many awards challenge Scouts to excel, have fun and grow into healthy, prepared adults. This award highlights the possibilities for personal achievement. Scouts will pursue rank advancements and religious emblems, as well as engage adults and alumni in conversation about their own achievements in Scouting.

Awards may be earned as of September 1, 2009 through December 31, 2010.

There are five requirements for each age group. All you have to do is accomplish at least three of the five requirements to earn the award. You may want to do all five requirements, but three is all that you’ll need to qualify for the award.

This program will provide every Scout, leader and alumnus a fun and meaningful way to participate in the 100^th Anniversary. Each individual participating will benefit, as will every unit and community in the country. Go to www.scouting.org/100years for more information on this and many more 100^th Anniversary programs.

Earn a Special 100th Anniversary Service Award

A Year of Celebration – A Century of Making a Difference is an awards program specially developed for the 100^th Anniversary of the Boy Scouts of America for all Scouts, adult volunteers and Scouting alumni.   The third of the five awards is based on the BSA core value of Community Service. It is represented by a 2” award marker that hangs from a uniquely designed 3” square program patch. The patch itself is patterned after the official 100^th Anniversary emblem. Individuals will be able to display all earned awards at the same time on their uniforms by attaching award markers to the patch.

Scouting’s contribution to society is most visible in our commitment to community service. Through service, Scouts demonstrate that they provide an essential function to their communities. More than just engaging in community service, the award recipient must also share their thoughts about why service is crucial to our society and how Scouts today fulfill a 100 year-old legacy of serving communities.

Local service projects are the best, because they help our local neighbors. However, if there isn’t a local project that fills your needs, you can participate in one of national or international significance. There will be ideas on the national 100^th Anniversary Web site to help you in your planning.

Awards may be earned as of September 1, 2009 through December 31, 2010.

There are five requirements for each age group. All you have to do is accomplish at least three of the five requirements to earn the award. You may want to do all five requirements, but three is all that you’ll need to qualify for the award.

This program will provide every Scout, leader and alumnus a fun and meaningful way to participate in the 100^th Anniversary. Each individual participating will benefit, as will every unit and community in the country. Go to www.scouting.org/100years for more information on this and many more 100^th Anniversary programs.

Earn a Special 100th Anniversary Character Award

A Year of Celebration – A Century of Making a Difference is an awards program specially developed for the 100^th Anniversary of the Boy Scouts of America for all Scouts, adult volunteers and Scouting alumni.   The fourth of the five awards is based on the BSA core value of Character. It is represented by a 2” award marker that hangs from a uniquely designed 3” square program patch. The patch itself is patterned after the official 100^th Anniversary emblem. Individuals will be able to display all earned awards at the same time on their uniforms by attaching award markers to the patch.

Scouting is a character-building program. Youth learn that personal responsibility and integrity are essential to accomplishing their goals. They learn to do good turns without expectation of reward and how to be brave when challenged to do the right thing. This award involves elements of citizenship, family life and personal fitness. Scouts will reflect on their own character and values. Adults and alumni will rediscover the impact Scouting makes on their own character.

Awards may be earned as of September 1, 2009 through December 31, 2010.

There are five requirements for each age group. All you have to do is accomplish at least three of the five requirements to earn the award. You may want to do all five requirements, but three is all that you’ll need to qualify for the award.

This program will provide every Scout, leader and alumnus a fun and meaningful way to participate in the 100^th Anniversary. Each individual participating will benefit, as will every unit and community in the country. Go to www.scouting.org/100years for more information on this and many more 100^th Anniversary programs.

A Year of Celebration – A Century of Making a Difference

Earn a Special 100th Anniversary Outdoors Award

A Year of Celebration – A Century of Making a Difference is an awards program specially developed for the 100^th Anniversary of the Boy Scouts of America for all Scouts, adult volunteers and Scouting alumni.     The last of the five awards is based on the BSA core value of the Outdoors. It is represented by a 2” award marker that hangs from a uniquely designed 3” square program patch. The patch itself is patterned after the official 100^th Anniversary emblem. Individuals will be able to display all earned awards at the same time on their uniforms by attaching award markers to the patch.

From campouts to High Adventure, Scouting happens outdoors. Since its inception, Scouting has centered on teaching values through working and playing outside, as well as fostering respect and understanding of one’s natural surroundings. This award is geared toward getting individuals active in nature and personal fitness. The award recipient must participate in outdoor activities and show growth in personal outdoor skills. They must also demonstrate increased knowledge of nature. Scouts must show understanding of the impact humans can have on ecosystems and why one must “Leave No Trace” when experiencing the outdoors.

Awards may be earned as of September 1, 2009 through December 31, 2010.

There are five requirements for each age group. All you have to do is accomplish at least three of the five requirements to earn the award. You may want to do all five requirements, but three is all that you’ll need to qualify for the award.

This program will provide every Scout, leader and alumnus a fun and meaningful way to participate in the 100^th Anniversary. Each individual participating will benefit, as will every unit and community in the country. Go to www.scouting.org/100years for more information on this and many more 100^th Anniversary programs.

Cub Scout Day Camp 2009

There is still time to register for Cub Scout Day Camp at both Camp Grice and Pine Hill Scout Reservation.

Join your Cub Scout Friends for a fun filled week of adventure and learning.

Activities at camp include the following and so  much more! 

Register online today for a week that fits your family schedule

Webelos Resident Camp

 June 20-24 2009 at Pine Hill Scout Reservation

"One Small Step, Soon One Giant Leap"

Webelos Resident Camp is for all current Bear Scouts and Webelos 1 Scouts.  The Adventure begins on Saturday afternoon, and lasts for 5 days and 4 nights. The camp includes traditional camp activities as well as many special events to give all Webelos Scouts a great foundation for completing Activities Badges. Click here to view more information on Webelos Resident Camp.                                                                           

Click here to register for Webelos Resident Camp.

The Boy Scouts of America recommends that all youth and adult members have annual medical evaluations by a certified and licensed health-care provider. In an effort to provide better care to those who may become ill or injured and to provide youth members and adult leaders a better understanding of their own physical capabilities, the Boy Scouts of America has established minimum standards for providing medical information prior to participating in various activities. Those standards are offered below in one three-part medical form.

Parts A and C are to be completed annually by all BSA unit members. Both parts are required for all events that do not exceed 72 consecutive hours, where the level of activity is similar to that normally expended at home or at school, such as day camp, day hikes, swimming parties, or an overnight camp, and where medical care is readily available. Medical information required includes a current health history and list of medications.

Part C also includes the parental informed consent and hold harmless/release agreement (with an area for notarization if required by your state) as well as a talent release statement. Adult unit leaders should review participants’ health histories and become knowledgeable about the medical needs of the youth members in their unit. This form is to be filled out by participants and parents or guardians and kept on file for easy reference.

Part B is required with parts A and C for any event that exceeds 72 consecutive hours, a resident camp setting, or when the nature of the activity is strenuous and demanding, such as service projects, work weekends, or high-adventure treks. It is to be completed and signed by a certified and licensed health-care provider—physician (MD, DO), nurse practitioner, or physician’s assistant as appropriate for your state. The level of activity ranges from what is normally expended at home or at school to strenuous activity such as hiking and backpacking. Other examples include tour camping, jamborees, and Wood Badge training courses. It is important to note that the height/weight chart must be strictly adhered to if the event will take the unit beyond a radius wherein emergency evacuation is more than 30 minutes by ground transportation, such as backpacking trips, high-adventure activities, and conservation projects in remote areas.

The Southern New Jersey Council will begin using these new forms immediately.

Frequently asked Questions       Download new form 

Service Weekends

 A reminder that our two fellowship weekends are approaching May 15-17 at Roosevelt Scout Camp, this weekend is also our lodge elections, those running or planning to run for office are strongly urged to attend you will need a letter from your Scoutmaster acknowledging that he/she is aware that you are running for an elected position for the Lodge and a letter from your chapter advisor with his support.

One of the major projects we are beginning is the stairs from the waterfront to the dining hall we are looking for anyone who wishes to assist I will be out at camp on Thursday and Friday starting the project and getting ready for the weekend if you would like to help please feel free to come on out. this is also the Vigil weekend several of those selected by the lodge's youth will be honored Friday evening and Saturday morning at the Vigil breakfast.

Our second fellowship weekend June 5-7 at Pine Hill Scout camp we will be getting Pine Hill ready for summer camp for our Cub Scouts with the setting up of tents, we also have a need for those who can work on cutting up some of the dead fall from the past winter so those who have a thing for chainsaws and own one this is for you. We will continue working on our ceremony circle adding lighting and additional seating to area and repairs to the Memorial Wall will also be taking place that weekend.

All members are reminded that checking in with membership is required and that your current years dues and proper registration for dining is required by all members, the Order of the Arrow is a service organization that gives freely of their time to help others and our camp payment is required for all those who wish to dine with lodge so that all share the burden equally. Wrist badges will be strictly enforced during the weekend and those entering the dining hall will be checked for wristbands.

Time is running out for those who wish to go to the section conclave being held at Citta Scout reservation this year, you can still get in so fill out a form found on the web site and send it in or give it to Mr. Miller on the May weekend. Conclave is a great opportunity to get some great new ideas, training and eat real good and just have good old fun. 

As spring becomes summer, it is time to begin planning for this year's popcorn sale.  The Trail's End popcorn sale is the best fundraising event your unit can participate in.  It is easy to run, has no risk, and can earn all the money you need for a year's worth of great program for your Scouts.

Units need to sign up for the sale each year.  Don't ASSUME we know you are participating this year!  It is only by signing your unit up for this year's sale that you can guarantee that you receive all the information you need to make your sale a success.  To protect your unit, all of your users in the Trail's End online system are removed each July.  Therefore, we need to have all the contact information for this year's Popcorn Kernel.

Please take a moment today to register your unit for this year's sale.  Online and paper registration options are available.  If you register online and the contact information for your unit's Popcorn Kernel changes, you can go in and update that information at any time.

Why wait?  Sign your unit up today!

This is one of many success stories of the difference Scouting is making in the lives of youth and families.

Christopher "C.J." was diagnosed as being neurologically impaired at the Children's Hospital of Philadelphia just before his second birthday, causing him to be slower at learning and slower at some physical activities. The Turnersville youngster, now 16, also was born with a cleft lip and palate and has needed many surgeries. He has had numerous myringotomy tubes and ear drum repair. After surgery to move his upper jaw, he wore a Rigid External Distraction (RED) to correct his craniomaxillofacial anomalies and wore a halo for three months.

"He has been challenged by his expressive, receptive and oral motor/speech deficits," says his mother, Robin. "He has received speech and language therapy and physical and occupational therapies. But C.J. has worked hard to overcome and work with his disabilities."

Some of that hard work was rewarded when C.J., a mainstreamed Boy Scout in Turnersville Troop 57, officially received his Eagle Scout award at a traditional ceremony at Red Pine Inn in Glassboro in April of this year.  He accumulated his merit badges as any Scout would, capping his requirements last fall with an ambitious Eagle Scout project -- a grounds makeover at Grenloch's Early Childhood Center -- that drew an impressive army of 100 volunteers.

"Actually, I tried to talk him out of it because I thought it was too much work," says Chris, C.J.'s dad. "But he was committed to see it through. I was a little nervous early in the day, when not many had showed up, but the people kept coming. He put teams in zones; he'd spent 30 hours in planning. They put down 10 yards of mulch and pulled out 10 dumpster loads of debris.

"The principal was shocked. C.J. did all the right stuff. And it was inspiring that about a fourth of the volunteers were Scouts including many from his own troop." The Boy Scouts of America was founded 99 years ago and is known for having Scouts with physical, mental and emotional disabilities. The first Scout executive, James E. West, had a disability. Although BSA efforts are directed to keep boys like C.J. in Scouting's mainstream, it also recognizes the special needs of those with severe disabilities including the blind, the deaf and the autistic.

But Scouting comes first. He plans to continue to earn merit badges. One of his goals is to become an assistant Scoutmaster. And he'll be honored by the township for his Eagle Scout project.

C.J. has a big heart," says his proud dad. "And he loves Scouting."

If you have attended a special fundraising event in 2008 or 2009 or would like to see what happened at one of the events you can check out the photographs from the events.  Use the pull down window to pick a specific event. Just follow this link: /openrosters/viewphotoalbum.asp?orgkey=2231 or go to Support Scouting-Special Events.

NATIONAL YOUTH LEADER TRAINING (NYLT) for Boy Scout youth leaders will take place at Pine Hill Scout Reservation August 16-22.

The course is for those scouts or Venturers who will have a position of leadership in the troop or crew. Scouts attending must be first class and thirteen years of age by the first day of the course.

The course director is Al Thorpe who has over 10 years experience as the NYLT course Scoutmaster and over 25 years as a Scoutmaster. The Scoutmaster for the course is Jim Latimer who has been with the course for four years and is also a Scoutmaster. 

The fee for the course is $230. If you register by May 31 you receive a Be Prepared Discount of $25.00.  For info click NYLT or go to the council home page and click the NYLT logo.

New on-line course The BSA has rolled out a new course that replaces New Leader Essentials. THIS IS SCOUTING was launched at the BSA E-Leaning Center and is one of the many courses that volunteers can take 24/7 at the BSA’s Virtual Service Center (MyScouting). The BSA recommends that THIS IS SCOUTING be taken on-line. If you have taken New Leader Essentials it is not necessary (although recommended) that you take THIS IS SCOUTING. The national council  plans to issue a DVD to allow the course to be taught to larger groups.

BSA E-LEARNING CENTER

Persons access the BSA E-Learning Center from MyScouting  MyScouting is a national council web-based site for every registered BSA volunteer--it is your site--no one else has access to it.

To access MyScouting go http://www.snjscouting.organd on the top line select the MyScouting Site.  If you have not already established your account with National Council, then you will need your current BSA membership number (located on your membership card or contact your district executive) and the council number for Southern New Jersey which is also on the card (334). Follow the directions and prompts and once your account is established you can go to the E-Learning Center.

Once you log in to the MyScouting site you can choose your available options of which one is the E-Learning Center. When you arrive at E-Learning, click the tabs to see the courses available. The tabs are for each program--Cubs, Boy Scouts, Venturing and General.

Each leader should always check the General tab to view the courses that everyone should take (i.e. Youth Protection) and the tab for the program they participate. And note that even if you are a registered Cub Scout leader you are able to take courses for any of the programs. If you need to stop during the presentation you may save and resume at another time--a blue dot will appear next to the course showing that you are working on this course.. Once the course is completed, you may print  a completion certificate for your records and a green dot will be inserted next to the course. A yellow dot next to a course selection indicates that you have not yet selected that course.

One of the best features of the on-line training center is that as soon as the course is completed your training records are updated. You should take your completion certificate to your unit meeting so that the unit training chairperson can update the records of the unit.

If you have any questions regarding this course you may contact either your district's training chairperson or your district executive.

ITOLS & OWL….Thirty two Scout leaders from Boy Scout Troops, a Varsity Team and Cub Scout packs recently gave a weekend of their time to ensure a better program for their Scouts. They participated in Introduction to Outdoor Leader Skills (ITOLS) and Outdoor Webelos Leader Skills (OWLS). The course is one of the courses that are required for Scoutmasters or Assistant Scoutmasters to earn the TRAINED emblem.  The Spring course, which took place at Pine Hill Scout Camp, was taught by  fifteen volunteers from the SNJC training team. The participants learned patrol camping and cooking and how Scouts teach skills like knot tying, first aid, nature skills, knife and ax skills as well as campfire planning.

Introduction to Outdoor Leader Skills and Outdoor Webelos Leader Skills takes place each spring and fall at the Pine Hill Scout camp. The next course will be October 2-4. Dennis Burnett of White Horse District will be the Scoutmaster for the fall course. To register for the fall course click the underlined words.

For more info about this course on any BSA training contact the training chair for your district or your district executive.

Time to Plan   With the summer break coming soon, now is the time for units  to begin planning the next program year. One of the most important things you can do to assure the continuity of your troop, pack or crew is the selection of leaders. And the best thing you can do to make sure that your Scouts have the best program is to require that your leaders complete the training required for their position.  Just as a Scout is required to complete his requirements to achieve advancement; a leader should hold themselves to the same standard and complete the training required for their position. Training should be encouraged not because it is required but because training gives leaders the knowledge and confidence in their position. It gives them the skills to be successful in their role and helps them understand what they need to accomplish as a leader.

WHAT ARE THE REQUIRED COURSES

Each position in Scouting requires different courses to earn the BSA TRAINED emblem and when you change positions you need to update your training.  For information about which courses are required go to the Southern New Jersey Council website and on the left side select TRAINING and then chose Overview of  Training or just click the underlined words.

BSA E-LEARNING CENTER

The BSA E-Learning Center is a national council site that allows persons to take training 24/7. The courses at the E-Learning center not only include many of the required courses but offer some excellent supplemental training. For some positions a Scouter can complete all their required courses at the E-Learning Center  

Persons access the BSA E-Learning Center from MyScouting  My Scouting is a national council web-based site for every registered BSA volunteer--it is your site--no one else has access to it.

To access MyScouting go http://www.snjscouting.org and on the top line select the MyScouting Site.  If you have not already established your account with National Council, then you will need your current BSA membership number (located on your membership card or contact your district executive) and the council number for Southern New Jersey which is also on the card (334). Follow the directions and prompts and once your account is established you can go to the E-Learning Center.

Once you log in to the MyScouting site you can choose your available options of which one is the E-Learning Center. When you arrive at E-Learning, click the tabs to see the courses available. The tabs are for each program--Cubs, Boy Scouts, Venturing and General.

Each leader should always check the General tab to view the courses that everyone should take (i.e. Youth Protection) and the tab for the program they participate. And note that even if you are a registered Cub Scout leader you are able to take courses for any of the programs. If you need to stop during the presentation you may save and resume at another time--a blue dot will appear next to the course showing that you are working on this course.. Once the course is completed, you may print  a completion certificate for your records and a green dot will be inserted next to the course. A yellow dot next to a course selection indicates that you have not yet selected that course.

One of the best features of the on-line training center is that as soon as the course is completed your training records are updated. You should take your completion certificate to your unit meeting so that the unit training chairperson can update the records of the unit.

If you have any questions regarding this course you may contact either your district's training chairperson or your district executive.

Philmont Training Center—is the BSA’s National Adult Leader Training Center. Located in Cimarron New Mexico at the high adventure base, the center offers Scout leaders multiple course offerings taught by the best Scout trainers in the USA. 

To attend a leader chooses the course that interests them and then must be approved by council. To view the current course offerings for 2009 and to find out more information then click 2009 Course Offerings

And did you know that it’s not all work and you can take your spouse and children The Philmont Training Center offers a full, organized program for every member of the family—from infants to spouses. Family members will be joined by others in their age group and will participate in a carefully designed, age and ability-specific program under the leadership of trained, experienced staff. To find out more about the family programs click the underlined words.

And there will be ample opportunity for a Scouter to enjoy the majesty of Philmont with his or her family or spouse. Evenings are devoted to family activities and free time. Sunday and Wednesday afternoons are free for family activities, hiking, fishing, or sightseeing. To see some of the varied leisure activities click the underlined words

If you would like to attend a 2009 course there may still be time to register (subject to availability). Select your course complete the registration form and contact your distinct executive for approval. But be sure to plan ahead for 2010 and visit the Philmont Training Center as BSA celebrates its 100th Anniversary.

At its Memorial Day Sunset Parade, the United States Coast Guard Training Center (TRACEN) Cape May   honored the Boy Scouts of America. The parade is a summer time tradition at the TRACEN, which is the only Coast Guard Training facility in the United States.  The Sunset Parade features the Training Center Drill Team, the Band, the Command Officers and the lowering of the American Flag.

Scouts arrived early in the day for a tour of the base and then were quickly mustered into a company of recruits. and given a sample of what life is like for a recruit.  This Scouting company under the command of Chief Warrant Officer Santos then learned marching skills as they prepared to participate in the evening parade.

As Sunset approached the Scouts assembled with the recruits marching onto the massive parade field.  There they were inspected by the Command Officers which included Captain Cari Batson Thomas, the Commander of TRACEN Cape May. The along with the company of recruits the Scouts stepped off to pass in review.  A thunderous applause was heard as the Scouts marched proudly pass the grandstands. The day concluded with Scouts and families dining at the Warrant Officers Club overlooking the InterCoastal Waterway.

Sunset Parades are held throughout the summer and for more info contact the USCG Training Center in Cape.

On May 30 2010 the USCG will honor the 100th Anniversary of the Boy Scouts of America.

The BaySea District of the Southern New Jersey Boy Scouts of America will honor the Morey Organization as its first Distinguished Community Partner.  The event is a county-wide fund-raising effort to raise money in support of the programs of Scouting in Cape May County. 

The Morey Organization will be recognized at a reception that will take place at the Avalon Links Restaurant location in Clement. Middle Township on Wednesday, September 30th beginning at 6:30 PM 

The Morey Organization (Morey's Piers & Beachfront Waterparks) located in Wildwood, was selected for their  commitment and continual support to the values of Scouting.  Throughout its forty year history, the Morey Organization has demonstrated their commitment to the principles of the Boy Scouts of America and giving back to the community.  They have two scouting events throughout the summer where Boy Scouts can earn merit badges while enjoying the rides and camping on the beach. In 2008, in conjunction with the Southern New Jersey Council, they developed Beach Bop to give Cub Scouts and their families a great day of fun and memories. And when it comes to generosity the Morey Organization is always there. They have been the sponsor for the BaySea Boy-Power dinner,  attended over twenty five Scouting fund-raising events and respond to  community organizations' needs.

The Distinguished Community Partner reception is co-chaired by Deborah Migliaccio US Food Service and Chairperson Boy Scout Troop 79 and Kristel Fillmore, Events and Entertainment Manager  at Morey's Piers. The committee includes:

Daniel Beyel, Cape May County Freeholder
Tina Casey, Citizens Bank
Joann DelVescio, Sturdy Bank
Fred Coldren, Delaware River and Bay Authority
Bob Grace, BaySea District Chairperson
Tom Tower, Action Supply
Lindsey Young, Morey's Piers

This fall the BaySea District is planning to double its Cub Scout membership by participating in the Southern New Jersey Join Scouting Night.  This event will take place September 23 and will have a Scouting representative in every elementary school in the county.   

According to Jim Hans, the Scout Executive for SNJC this event is more that just sitting at a table getting names.  It is having events at the round-up that are fun and exciting for the boys. Games, contests, sing-a-longs, pinewood or space derbies--lots of hands on activities that show the boys and their parents how much fun Cub Scouts will be .It is doing things that are fun so that when they go home, the boys will want to come back.  Jim reminded the organizing committee that, "Scouters need to remember that parents are looking for something of value to their son.  They look for the organization of the pack--the caliber of its leaders.  And potential new Cub Scouts well they want to have fun and see their friends.  If you don't have something for the boys to do---then they often will not return for your first pack meeting."

A key component of this program is for units to arrange in-school presentations to the boys.  These events are short presentations done during school hours where leaders go to the school to have a meet and greet and to distribute flyers and get the boys excited about joining Cub Scouts.

Another key element for success is having someone in your pack to serve as the coordinator and contact person.  This person should be certain that everyone who walks into a Join Scouting location is introduced to the pack leadership and the boys in the den they will be joining.  

Volunteers are needed at the pack and district level to have this event successful. BaySea will be divided into three areas and the plans are for each area to have a coordinator.  Local leaders are asked to contact their elementary schools to determine if the facility is available.  Each school will have a coordinator who will collect applications and report to the area leaders.

K-KUB Lions is a SNJC program that blends the values and fun of Cub Scouts with the character education lessons from Learning for Life for kindergarten boys. Developed in BaySea District over six years ago, this June we welcomed 25 Lions as new Tigers. Since its inception over 150 K-Kub Lions graduated into Cub Scouts.  And in 2009 the original first group of K-Kubs crossed over to Boy Scouts. In the two Upper Township troops twenty K-Kubs who were the part of twenty-three original, graduated and became Boy Scouts.

Jim Hans, Scout Executive for the Southern New Jersey Council, has declared 2009-2010 the Year of the Lion and is encouraging all packs to offer K-Kubs.  "The most wonderful thing about the program is that it is a creative program that operates more like an organized play-group.  It gives parents exposure to traditional Cub Scouting, is low impact and allows parents and their children to create new friendships.Packs should create K-Kub programs to help insure the growth of their pack"

And a recent BaySea District roundtable it was announced by the SNJC executive that the K-Kub program is now being field-tested in other councils for national implementation in the near future--and it all began in BaySea.

New K-Kub units begin September;  if your pack wants to start a K-Kub group contact Bill Wasekanes.

BaySea Cub Scout Day camp takes place July 6-10 at the state forest located in Belleplain. A full day of activities is being planned for the Cubs that includes swimming, cooking, crafts, nature, archery, air rifle shooting, games and special events.  The theme is a Safari Adventure and the camp is celebrating its 20th Anniversary at Belleplain State Forest.

This year the day camp has gone green with its registration material. While each registered cub scout family received a mailing that including the camper registration form, all of the information about day camp is now on line. To find the info go to http://www.snjscouting.organd on the left side select districts and then select BaySea or why not just click here

Don’t forget that packs must provide at least one leader every day for each den of eight boys that you send to camp. Day camp is for Bobcats, Tigers, Wolves and Bears.  Webelos Scouts may attend but are encouraged to go camping at Pine Hill for the Webelos Resident Camp

Our staff is VOLUNTEER and we are always looking for new staff members and adding special program areas. So if you have an interest or hobby then please call and plan to volunteer.  

The camp fee is $85.00 Contact your pack for more info.

Would your unit like to earn $10,000 for going camping, taking trips and replacing your equipment?

Do you deluge your parents with sales of candy bars, cookie dough and other products? 

Would you like to have one money earning project that can fund your entire Scouting program?

Well stop dreaming and start planning to use the SNJC Trails End Popcorn Sale.  With some good planning and commitment to goals, your unit can accomplish that by participating in the SNJC Trails End Popcorn Sale. 

When you plan a popcorn sale that has goals, expectations, and accountability and parents know how the money is going to be used—you help insure success for your Scouts. Your unit earns a base commission of 30% with commission incentives to increase that amount.  And did you know that another 30% of the selling price goes to assist the council--so up to seventy cents of every dollar that you sell benefits Scouting here in SNJC. 

And there are additional savings for your units as there are no up-front costs since SNJC pays for all of your selling materials, shipping and prizes.

And because it is a BSA-SNJC sale, did you know that your customers are able to use a portion of that selling price as a donation to an approved IRS charitable organization.  Imagine selling just twenty of the five way tins makes Scouting over seven hundred dollars that your customers can report as a donation. 

There are three ways to sell popcorn--Show and Deliver; Take Order and Deliver and Show and Show.  Be sure to read this newsletter for more popcorn info. And come to the SNJC Popcorn Orientation taking place Tuesday August 25 at the Lakeside School in Millville.  And if you want to sell while the summer crowds are here then contact the BaySea Popcorn Chair, Allen Ashbridge, to arrange a summer show and sell shipping date for your unit.

In Scouting, Money is the root of all good and that is the premise behind the SNJC Friends of Scouting program.  This fund-raising activity takes place in each SNJC district and asks our Scouting families to make a financial contribution to the values and programs of Scouting.  Bob Penrose, the BaySea District FOS Chairperson, reports it has been a challenging year.  Bob says that "the economy has been a factor--the decline of the stock market, the loss of real estate values and the increasing unemployment have caused our BaySea families to experience economic stress. But with all that our families have remained committed to values of Scouting and the programs of the council."

As shown if the May 25 FOS Update, the district has achieved 57% of the $30,000 goal and we say THANK YOU to the families that contributed and express our gratitude to the units that had their presentations.  A special commendation goes to Troop 79 of Seaville that contributed over $4,000 to the district goal.

Now the hard work is ahead of us as we need to reach the 100% goal. Volunteers are needed to help with a phone-a-then. Using a scripted format we will be contacting those that have contributed in prior years to encourage the renewal of their commitment to Scouting.  If you would like to volunteer contact Bob Penrose. 

The Family Friends of Scouting represents only a portion of the fund-raising goals for BaySea District.  Our community Friends of Scouting must raise $5,000 through area community events.  Our upcoming Popcorn sale has a goal of selling $60,000.  Our September 23 Distinguished Community Partner Reception honoring the Morey Organization needs to achieve another $30,000. So you can see that we have much to accomplish but that by working together we can achieve the goal

The kids are off from school, the weather has warmed up; the ocean, beach and Boardwalk beckon us to relax and enjoy those lazy idyllic days of summer. Not true if you are a BaySea Scout and Scouter--oh sure for many of us we get a break from the weekly meeting routing but this summer in BaySea

 Each of our BaySea troops are off to summer camps at Camp Roosevelt, Resica Falls, Rodney, Citta, Blue Ridge  and one troop is sending a contingent to Florida Sea Base. 

Cub Scouts will have the annual BaySea Cub Scout Day camp at Belleplain State Forest July 6-10.

Several BaySea Scouts will be attending the SNJC NYLT course at Pine Hill August 16-22 and we have Scouts from BaySea serving on staff.

Members of the Order of the Arrow will be traveling to the  30th National Order of the Arrow Conference (NOAC)  that takes place at  Indiana University August 1-6.

BaySea Scouts will be volunteering at the Cape May County 4-H fair  July 16-19 and Scout leaders from throughout the district will be manning the information and membership display that BaySea has at the fair

National Night Out will take place on Tuesday August 4 at various locations throughout the county and Scout leaders will be using these events to showcase their pack, troop, crew and post for recruiting new members.

Leaders will be getting ready for the Council-wide Join Scouting event that is taking place September 23 at every BaySea elementary school.

BaySea Roundtables resume on August 17 with our 3-2-1 schedule of Mondays

The 100th Anniversary of Scouting begins September 01 and units will be planning events to take place to make the year memorable

Leaders in Packs, troops and crews will be meeting to plan their 2009-2010 program year

Popcorn Show and Sell will begin for those units that want to sell while our summer tourists are here

And speaking of Popcorn leaders from BaySea and Cumberland districts will converge on Tuesday August 25 at the Lakeside School in Millville for the wildest and most enthusiastic Trails End Popcorn Orientation that you have ever seen.  Lean the skills of selling and how your unit  can increase your sale and enable your scouts to earn more money for their activities.

And finally in the past some of our BaySea Leaders have attend the Philmont Training Center and perhaps some will be attending this year.

And yes we will still have time for the  Beach and Boardwalk  and summer picnics. 

Drive Safely out there and be careful,

Since the 2008 United Way Rubber Ducky Regatta bags of cute rubber duckies have been quietly hibernating in a local storage facility, waiting to be resorted and inventoried for the 2009 race.

But now is the time for all ducks to be counted, and the United Way of Cape May County is searching for a group of committed volunteers who are just daffy enough to make it happen.“We have literally thousands of ducks,” United Way of Cape May County Executive Director Suzanne Nardi said. “And each and every one has to be accounted for.”It’s a big job that normally takes 40 people about six hours complete, and so far this year, no one has volunteered to help.“It would be a great volunteer project for a scout troop, an older school group, a business or a local civic group,” Nardi said. “It’s not difficult; it’s just takes a lot of space and pretty big hunk of time.”Ducks must be taken from the bags and sorted into dozens of piles according to their numbers, inventoried, certified and returned to storage

Some light lifting is required, and volunteers will need an ability to tally and count into the thousands. A work space can be arranged if none is available.And the day is not without its rewards. There will be plenty of duck jokes and a free pizza for volunteering. If you think your group can help the United Way get its ducks in a row, call 729-2002 for more information.Also the new 2009 Rubber Duckies will once again be premiered at the BaySea Cub Scout Day Camp. 

Cub Scouts will be able to purchase a souvenir duck for the race taking place at Morey's Waterpark on August 16.The United Way of Cape May County is a community partner with the Southern New Jersey Council of the Boy Scouts of America.

Cape May Country 4-H Fair will take place July 16-18 at the fairgrounds located on the South Dennis-Court House Road next to Atlantic Cape Community College.The fair opens at 11:00 am and goes to 10:00 PM and is a popular event for residents of Cape May County.

BaySea has been an exhibitor at the fair for over seven years and because so many locals attend the Fair has been one of our most successful community recruitment efforts . It was the 4-H fair that was the impetus for developing the BaySea District K-Kubs when so many parents asked about a program for their Kindergarten sons.

Once again BaySea will be an exhibitor at the 4-H Fair, and units are encouraged to be there to help. And we would like your help--not only to be there to answer questions but if you have Scouting items to display--uniforms, Pinewood Cars--pictures bring them and create a visual display.  Perhaps you could run a Pinewood Derby or teach some soap carving  that future Cub Scouts could try.  Let's make this more than an Info Only display--let's make it fun! 

We will be recruiting for all programs so Packs, Troops, Crews and Posts should be  sure to schedule your unit to attend.

And don't forget the 4-H Chicken Barbecue that takes place each night from 4:00 to 7:00 and supports the programs of 4-H

Please contact Bill Wasekanes to schedule your time.

 National Night Out will take place Tuesday August 4th in many BaySea towns. National Night Out is a cooperative crime prevention effort between your local police department and the National Town Watch Association.  Often it becomes a local night out for residents of the community and can be a great venue to showcase your Scout unit and begin your fall recruiting. NNO has proven to be an effective, inexpensive and enjoyable program to promote neighborhood spirit and police-community partnerships in our fight for a safer nation. Plus, the benefits. In 2008 over 38 million people participated in National Night Out events.

National Night Out brings people to a location and often includes free food, static displays from local police, sheriff, rescue and fire departments. There are vendors and games and in some communities the night ends with fireworks. Events have been held in Dennis Township, Sea Isle City, Cape May, Lower Township, Avalon, Stone Harbor, the Wildwoods and Middle Township.

Troops, Packs, Crews and Posts should contact your local police department for additional info and to register as a participant. In towns where there is more than one Scouting unit---why not combine resources and work together to recruit new members.

In what has become a tradition for BaySea camporees--it rained--but that did not deter over one hundred Boy Scouts and fifty Explorers who were prepared for the disasters that were about to happen.  The BaySea Operation MayDay took place at the Cape May Airport in Erma and was attended by seven troops.  The event was in conjunction with our BaySea Exploring Trauma-A-Thon.

On Saturday a staged school bus accident put to test the skills of the Goshen Fire Explorers, law enforcement Explorers from the Cape May County Sheriff  and the Health Explorers from Middle Township Ambulance Corps. Scouts acted as victims and the judging team evaluated what their Explorers learned during the year. Medics from the United States Coast Guard Training Center Cape May acted as judges for the disaster.

Boy Scouts were offered the opportunity to complete First Aid, Fire Safety, and Emergency Preparedness merit badges. The United States Coast Guard, Air Station Atlantic City arrived for a static display of their equipment and the mission of these Guardians of the Sea.  A live display was offered on how they do at sea rescues. 

Later the New Jersey State Police arrived with their South Star Helicopter and explained to the the Scouts and Explorers the lifesaving mission of these vital air ambulances. 

The Cape May County Sheriff Department was there with their K-9 unit and explained the specialized nature of each of their dogs.  The department has dogs that are trained in narcotics detection, arson dogs that can find where a fire started, explosive detecting canines, cadaver dogs and of course the well known blood hound tracking dogs and the German Shepard patrol dogs.  The newest member of the K-9 team, Officer Eric Teasenfitz (Adviser for Explorer Post 1692) put his patrol dog to the test and impressed the scouts with the dogs knowledge of commands in English, German and sign language.

Later the stillness of the night was disturbed with a loud explosion as a small craft plane crashed in a wooded area.  Scouts were assembled to search for the fuselage and triage the victims. Bodies were strewn on the ground and in the trees and the Scouts needed to use their first aid and knot know how to treat and rescue the survivors. 

It's time to rebuild the BaySea District Merit Badge Counselor list and cooperation is needed from the BaySea troops to make this happen. 

Troop advancement chairs need to review their current merit badge counselors list and contact each of these persons  to verify their interest in remaining as a counselor. That updated list must be submitted to the BaySea Advancement Chairperson no later than June 30. As you review your list please remove any person who:

* Has not counseled a badge in the past year
* Is no longer affiliated with your unit,
* Has moved from the area Is not known by your current troop leadership
* No longer wishes to be a merit badge counselor.

After you have completed your merit badge audit, your updated list must be submitted to the BaySea District Advancement chairman.  A Merit Badge Update Report template can be found on the Advancement page. The info that this report will need is:

* First and Last Name
* Current address including phone number and email
* List of merit badges this person will counsel
* BSA Membership Number

Only persons who are registered Scouters may counsel merit badges.  If a person is not a registered Scouter then a current BSA Adult Leader Application must be included with your audit report. A person who registers as a merit badge counselor is not required to pay the annual $10.00 annual membership fee.  However if a person is unregistered and chooses to register with your unit then the membership fee must be charged.

Once ALL of the troops have responded, the information will be provided to the SNJC registrar.  This person will enter each merit badge into the ScoutNet data base.  BSA recently improved their membership system to allow new reports to be generated for merit badge counselors.  If all units provide their information by June 30, it is anticipated that an updated list can be provided by the August or September roundtables..  

Be sure to check out the various pages of BaySea District for more info.  In the past the info that is on these pages was included in the printed newsletter--but since it is here all the time just some reminders of where to find it.

Looking for things to do and places to go visit the ACTIVITIES page

Need information about advancements for Scouts,  when and where the BaySea Advancement committee meets,  merit badge info, requirements for ranks and badges, who to contact for Eagle Court of Honor, a list of BaySea's Eagle Scouts, Silver Beaver and District Award of Merit receipients then be sure to go to the ADVANEMENT PAGE

Planning your unit calendar and need dates for BaySea District events then go to the CALENDAR.  Using the white box on the top left you can select the calendar you want to review.

Looking to contact a member of the district staff or want to Join Scouting or see how many positions remain unfilled in the district then visit the CONTACT PAGE

Need training for your leaders, want to know who is the training committee, when they meet and when they teach then be sure to visit the TRAINING page

Need day camp info then be sure to choose BAYSEA CUB SCOUT DAY CAMP

Need to create a SNJC E-list  account or modify your E-list selections then click the underlined words and don't forget be sure to put a check in the box next to BaySea.

The Cumberland/Baysea Scout University was held February 7 and 28 at the Cumberland County Technical Education Center. Over 140 Scouts earned merit badges in the following areas: Auto Mechanics, Computer Graphics, Citizenship in the Community, Nation and World, Computers, Plumbing, Woodcarving, Fire Safety, First Aid, Crime Prevention, Aviation, Public Speaking, Fingerprinting and Emergency Preparedness. In addition, 40 Cub Scouts earned belt loops in chess, readyman, basketball, volleyball and a number of other areas.

Many thanks to all the dedicated volunteers who taught classes, organized registrations, worked in the kitchen and helped out everywhere to make things run smoothly. Thanks to Keith Repp, our chief cook February 7 and Bob Motter, our chief cook on February 28 and everyone who worked in the kitchen. Thanks to Jeff Hines for securing the donation of snacks from his employer, to Bridor Corporation for donating the rolls and Bertacci Company for the meatballs. Thanks to Bob Sharp who hobbled in and helped with registration, even though he had just had knee surgery and Gina Palmonari, who kept Bob in line. Thanks to Paul Beckwith for his invaluable help in getting instructors and assigning rooms and generally running around like a crazy person to make things work. A real big THANK YOU to Dr. Todd Bonsall, Principal of CCTEC for his support of Scouting.

Scout College 2010 will be held on February 6 and 20. We plan to be bigger, better and offer new merit badge courses.  The location will once again be the Cumberland County Technical Education Center. Look for online registration and course offerings in the fall. There is also a course planned to help a Scout move from Life Scout to Eagle Scout and how to facilitate the process. 

The Cumberland District recognized our dedicated volunteers and Eagle Scouts on April 29 at DeThomasi's Five Points Inn in Vineland. The following volunteers were recognized for their outstanding service:

Cub Scouter of the Year - Cindy Metelow of Pack 1 and Ray Rossi of Pack 138
Scouter of the Year - Pete Crovo and Rich Couch of Troop 10
Venturer of the Year - Bill Powell of Crew 333

The Geezer of the Year, oops, Veterans' Award was presented to District Commissioner Bob Sharp for 20 years of dedicated service.

Also honored were the following Eagle Scouts:

Troop 1 - William Freitag, Jr., Derek Hankins and Mathew Manetas
Troop 4 - Kyle Brewer and Evertt Hoffman, Jr.
Troop 27 - Eric Tirrell
Troop 36 - Michael Strittmatter
Troop 38 - William Clunn, III, Ryne Jones and Nicholas Repp
Troop 58 - Justin Franzwa
Troop 98 - John Leigh
Troop 108 - William Graham IV
Troop 137 - Stephen Karwowski and Charles Bennett III
Troop 580 - Joseph Gaunt

All were presented with an Eagle Scout plaque and bolo tie, in addition to other certificates commemorating their achievement.

The Cumberland District Program Launch will be held on Wednesday, June 10, beginning at 6:00 PM at the Scout Resource Center. Please join us and participate in some fun and fellowship with other Scouters and enjoy some great food! If you plan to attend, please email Bruce Golway at bgolway@bsamail.org and let him know how many will be attending. Also, covered dishes are appreciated but not required.

Information will be distributed about Webelos Weekend, Fall Camporee, Popcorn Sales, the Council-wide recruiting night September 23 and other upcoming events. Don't miss out on this opportunity! 

The Cumberland Fall Camporee will be held at Batsto in the Wharton Tract from October 16 to 18. This is a venue we haven't used in a long time, so it will be a new experience for most of your Scouts. There will be a wealth of new activities, including demonstrations by the Forest Fire Service, State Police and others. There will also be an opportunity to earn the Forestry merit badge at the Camporee.

Look for information, registration forms and cost online very shortly.

If you have suggestions, questions or programs you would like to see, please contact Dennis Hatch via email at greenleafdennis@aol.com .

Mark your calendar! The Cumberland Webelos Weekend is scheduled for September 18 to 20 at the Roosevelt Scout Reservation. Look for the schedule, offerings and registration form online very shortly.

Cathy Malone is chairing the event, so if you have suggestions, questions or wish to volunteer, please contact Cathy at scoutmom36@comcast.net .

The Cumberland District Klondike Derby, held on January 17, was a huge success! Despite temperatures of -5 degrees at the start, over 70 Scouts and leaders braved the cold to compete in the sled race and cooking competitions.
The sled race was won by Troop 4, with Troop 38 and Troop 137 following close behind.
As for the Dutch Oven cooking, there were so many great dishes, it was hard to pick a winner! There were several varieties of chili and a very good beef stew for the main courses; as for desserts, there were several types of cobblers, cherry, peach and apple and a really surprising pineapple upside down cake, complete with cherries in the center of the pineapple rings! Everyone sampled all the different offerings and had more than enough to eat!
Special recognition to Troop 1, who made their chili from scratch on site. Great job guys!

A huge "THANK YOU" to Joe Mathos and Bob Motter, who organized the event. As usual, the Dynamic Duo did an outstanding job with the facilities and arrangements, to say nothing of making a 40 gallon pot of chicken soup (well, maybe not quite that big) and coffee to keep the leaders going. 

Firequest - Fall Camporee    

The Old Colony District is preparing to have a sensational Fall Camporee October 23 – 25, 2009 at the Washington Lake Park in Washington Township.    

Fire and Rescue Companies from throughout Gloucester and Salem Counties have already agreed to help us conduct instructional and competitive programs at this event thanks to Camporee Chairman, John Hoffman, the Fire Marshall for Gloucester County, who is himself an Eagle Scout!    

We’ll have a “Fire Fighter Challenge” obstacle course, rappelling wall, Scouts practicing the use of fire extinguishers to put out real fire, partial Merit Badge  training in Fire Safety and Emergency Preparedness, K-9 demonstrations, and lots of other fun activities.    

We’re expecting several hundred Scouts as well as about 150 “Royal Rangers” from the Assembly of God denomination attending as partners in the event since their Church property adjoins the Washington Lake Park and will also be used for some of our facilities that weekend.    

The Camporee committee has already been meeting for months preparing for this event which promises to rival past Council-wide Jamborees!    

Registration will be on-line beginning this summer via the Council website but, please be sure to save these dates in your Troop’s calendar this Fall.

You REALLY don’t want to miss this one!

Information on the upcoming events will be available at the June Program Launch and Steak Fry (dinner optional)  All the available information on the year’s upcoming events will be given out at this event. Camp Grice’s McFadden Pavilion.Gathering starting at 6: 00 PM, Program Launch starts 7:15 PM.

Follow this link for more information. 

Ron Uzdarinis of the Gloucester County United Way honors Steven Entrekin with the Volunteer Service Award. Steven has been active in Troop 17 in Greenwich, as well as a Unit Commissioner serving numerous Packs and Troops in his area.

Webelos Weekend 2009

   Our ever popular, annual Webelos Weekend will be held at Camp Grice on October 2 – 4, 2009.  There are always lots of games, contests, and instructional activities for our 4th and 5th graders that help to energize their thrill for the out-of-doors and encourage them to hang in for the program transition to Boy Scout Troops when they get old enough to “graduate.”

   Parents and Leaders are needed to help run events.  Please contact District Activities Chairman, Thom Shoop if you can volunteer.   

District Recognition Dinner & District Awards of Merit

The District Award of Merit was presented to four Old Colony District Scouters at the annual District Recognition Dinner March 27th at Sons of Italy in Paulsboro.
Recognized for outstanding service to service to Scouting and their communities in the Old Colony District were:

District Awards of Merit

Thomas Traina

 Tom has been involved in Pack 244 for the last five years.  He started as a Den Leader but quickly moved up to Assistant Cubmaster and eventually Cubmaster.  Under Tom’s leadership, the Pack has consistently earned the Quality Unit Award (and the new Centennial Unit Award), the National Summertime Award and the Good Turn for America.  He provided leadership at Cub Camp and Webelos Resident Camp.  
 He currently serves on the Catholic Scouting Committee and has helped with FOS presentations for the District.  Additionally Tom is a T-ball coach and teaches religious classes at Holy Name of Jesus parish.   
 Tom earned his Eagle Scout award as a youth.  As an adult, he has earned the Cub Scouter and Cubmaster Training awards and received the Scouter Service Award last year.
 He is now an Assistant Scoutmaster in Troop 44.   Tom and his wife Dawn are members of the District Training Committee.

Mark Candidi

 Mark help start both Troop and Pack 161 in Williamstown 22 years ago in 1987.  While with the units, Mark served in just about every capacity he could.  With the leadership skill of Mark, Troop 161 has produced 23 Eagle Scouts.  Presently he is the Charter Representative to the units and the committee chair.  He also has the Den Leader’s Award.
 Throughout his Scouting career he has never stopped being of service to is fellow Scouters.  He has mentored many adult leaders and help them become successful in their positions.  At various times he has supported District functions; often behind-the scenes.  Currently Mark serves as a Unit Commissioner which again allows him to share his knowledge with others.  
 He serves as a Knight of Columbus in the Catholic Church.  He is also a Man of Malvern and a member of St. Mary’s Pastoral Council.

Frank Eggert

 “He’s been ‘Mr. Scout’ for 4 decades.”  So stated the Courier Post feature on our friend Frank Eggert in 1985. His Scouting career started in the 1930’s as a Scout.  Frank earned his Eagle Scout with Bronze Palm in 1942.  He also served in the US Army as a sergeant and received an honorable discharge in 1946.
 From that prestigious milestone Frank continued on a path in Scouting that most people could only dream about.  He has participated in at least 13 different national and international Jamborees. Has been on the 1965 World’s Fair Service Corps.  Has led several expeditions to Philmont Scout Ranch.   Along the way Frank was awarded many times over for his service.  He has earned the Scouter’s Key, Silver Beaver, Woodbadge Beads, Silver Stag Award, Gloucester District Distinguished Eagle and many other awards.
 Frank has also filled many various positions in Scouting including: Assistant Scoutmaster and committee member in Troop 50, Assistant Post Advisor for Post 131, District Advancement Committee (present) and Thursday Crew at Roosevelt (present).
 Frank’s long time service and dedication to Scouting in Old Colony District and to Camp Roosevelt is a model that all Scouters can strive for.

Brian Steager

As a youth Brian was a Cub Scout and Boy Scout in his hometown.  In his teenage years Brian joined a local Explorer Post.
 Brian received a BS in Horticulture from Delaware Valley College.  His work experience included five years with Agway, 12 years as an Agronomist for two different companies; nine years as an owner of a biosolids and food processing waste management.  Brian also started Green Planet Nursery in 1995. 
 As an adult Scouter Brian served as Pack 244’s Cubmaster, Troop 44 Committee member and then Chairperson.  Brian now serves as a Unit Commissioner and also is the District Chair for the FOS campaign.  Through his efforts the District has been able to meet the FOS goals and therefore provide a quality program for our youth.
 Brian and his wife Claire have four children and four grandchildren.  His son Matt is an Eagle Scout.  Brian and Claire will be celebrating their 40th anniversary this summer.

The Continuing Service Award was presented to two Old Colony District Scouters:

Robert Bates

 Bob started his Scouting career in 1995 when he became a den leader for Pack 132.  He moved up to Cubmaster until 1999 where he then became the Scoutmaster of Troop 17 in Gibbstown.  He held that position until 2005.  Bob retired as Scoutmaster but not form Scouting.  He currently serves as Committee Chair of Troop 17.
 Bob has been a strong supporter of the Old Colony Scout College where he serves as an instructor.  He also has provided support to various camporees and has always been ready to pitch in to help at an event.
 Away from Scouting Bob is very active within the St. Michaels Catholic Church in Gibbstown.  He serves as an usher and announcer.  One of his most recent endeavors was to help renovate the Walker-Blake Graveyard in Taunton, Massachusetts.  He enlisted the help from Scouts in Tauton to help on this project.
Bob’s service to Scouting continues to benefit the youth of Old Colony District.

Carole Goodwin

 Carol has been an adult Scouter for since 1984.  She has been a den leader, the Cubmaster for Pack 7 and currently serves on the Pack Committee.  Carole has earned the Den Leader and Webelos Leader awards; Scouter’s Key, District Award of Merit; Commissioner’s Key and a MS degree from the University of Commissioner Science.
 On the District level Carole serves as a Unit Commissioner and a full time staff member on the Cub Leader Roundtable staff.  She also served on Cub Day Camp staffs and Powwow    
 In the community Carole served on the Woodbury PTA, President of the Gloucester County PTA  and currently in the President of the Methodist Women’s Group and Blackwood Grange Lecturer and Education Chair.
Our thanks goes out to the event Chairman Tom Rathof, the event committee members Rob Bardsley and Charles Buchert, and the Sons of Italy for their help in organizing this year’s District Awards Dinner.

Family F.O.S. Campaign   

 A great big thank you goes out to our Old Colony District’s Family Division, Friends of Scouting Chairman, Brian Steager, the proprietor of Green Planet Nursery in Mullica Hill for all the work he has put in to coordinating our 2009 campaign to help the Southern New Jersey Council raise the necessary funds to finance the support services to local Scouting.    

Many of our Packs, Troops, and Crews have generously participated in the campaign and we have raised $28,000 so far out of our $50,000 goal for Old Colony District’s “Family” share of the Council budget.    

We had hoped to have completed the drive by mid June but, realistically with economic conditions and many of our Scouting families yet to have been asked to make their voluntary contribution to the campaign this is going to take a while longer to secure the additional pledges.    

If your Unit has not yet gotten involved in supporting Friends of Scouting please contact Brian Steager regards how you can still help.

   As we wind down the Scout year and head to summer I am pleased to say that Old Colony District has made great strides in having unit leaders trained for their positions.  Let's continue the trend by ensuring our leaders are up to date with their on-line training especially the course "This is Scouting". 

   Look for the next round of training courses offered by the Training Team.  Courses will be posted on the District on-line Calendar.  Units can request courses by contact Rob Bardsley.

   Do you have Scouting experience and wish to share it with others?  Come join the Training Team.  Help other leaders gain the knowledge they need to be successful in their units.  Contact Rob Bardsley.

Cook-o-ree 2009

   The Old Colony District held a Spring Camporee focused on outdoor cooking skills on the weekend of April 17th-19th.  Approximately 200 Scouts and leaders attended this event held at Camp Grice.   

   Winner of the District’s Brown Jug award, given to the Troop who out preformed their peers in various Scouting skills, was Troop 81 Chartered by the Wedgwood School PTO.  they will be the holders of the Jug until the Fall, Fire Quest, Camporee; which will be held in Washington TWP in the Fall of 09.  

   We truly appreciate Rich Nawoyski jumping in to substitute as chairman at this event on short notice when George Shute had been called out of town.

Cub Scout Fishing Derby

This year we had a record number of over 100 Cub Scouts and their parents attend the Old Colony District Fishing Derby.    As you can see, the weather was no barrier to fun that day.

So a Cub Scout walks into a trading post with a parrot on his shoulder. The Cubmaster behind the counter asks, "Where did you get him?"  The parrot answers, "Pine Hill, they're are all over the place."

It was a pirate theme weekend as more than one hundred Cub Scouts and their leaders came out for a weekend of fun, learning and camaraderie at Pine Hill Scout Reservation this past May 16-17.  For many of the boys (and some of the adults, too) it was their first overnight camping trip...and based on the smiles and laughing everywhere, it's safe to say, all are already looking forward to their next trip.

Organized by our very own Pat Leth, who recruited an excellent volunteer staff (including her husband Steve), there was too much fun had by all -- and everybody spent the day practicing their pirate voice.  Arrrrgggghhh!  The Packs decorated their campsites (which were judged) and traveled from site to site where they were presented a problem.  Using Scout ingenuity and skill -- and the occasional piece of duct tape -- the Packs solved their challenge, collected their booty and moved on the next challenge.   

Recession?  What recession?? 

Maybe some other folks at different Councils throughout the country or in other Districts right here in Southern New Jersey wonder why we conduct a Friends of Scouting (FOS) campaign, but nothing could be further from the truth in the White Horse District!  Clearly nearly everybody in Camden County understands the importance of this critical fund raising effort and why we do it -- to keep our camps open, to keep the Millville Scout Shop operational and Resource Center staffed, and to bring Scouting to those that need it most. 

Thanks to your generosity and caring about the Scouting program and the youth of our communities, to date we have raised over $40,000 in pledges through our FOS family & community campaigns.  A truly remarkable feat under normal circumstances, but even more so during these difficult economic times.  We still have a ways to go toward our overall $70,000 goal but are so appreciative of everybody's help.  A favorite story involves a woman who had lost her job, but was still able to give and although her contribution was small by her own admission, it made a huge impact on everybody who heard her story.  There was hardly a dry eye in the room.

Later this Spring, we'll be wrapping up most of the individual unit family phase presentations, although there may be a few units that didn't schedule their presentation that we'll catch up with in the Fall.  We'll also be concentrating on a re-kindled effort in the FOS community phase.

Remember, only your support can make the lessons of Scouting possible.  So please, if you haven't already done so, join us today with a tax-deductible investment to the 2009 Friends of Scouting Campaign.  Thank you!

A standing ovation for all!

At the end of the day, the true reward is the satisfaction of a job well done, a child's smile, or just knowing that you have done your very best for your friends, your family, and for your community.  Still, occasionally a volunteer rises above and beyond and deserves to be recognized (although they'd be the last to admit it).  Thanks and congratulations to all our volunteers!

Our District was very proud to have two 2009 Silver Beaver recipients -- John Galati (our current Chairman) and Steve Leth (our current Cub Scout Roundtable Chair & Cub Scout Training Chair). The Council recognized these two fine gentlemen (along with winners from other Districts) at the April Council Recognition Dinner. 

At our recent District Dinner at the Palace in Blackwood (organized by our very own Cathy Goerke who, along with her team, did a simply OUTSTANDING job), we recognized four District Award of Merit winners -- Mark Brody, David Gilson, Brain Kandell, and Barbara Kohler. Also recognized that evening as Outstanding Volunteers selected by their respective Units were Heather Cornforth (Pack 116), Fred Pschunder (Pack 127), Dorothy Panichelli (Pack 132), Elizabeth Grassia (Pack 177), MaryBeth Lolli (Pack 184), Tom Scott (Pack 222), Mark Reifsnyder (Troop 65), Laura Crossan and John Forbes (Troop 67), Mario  DiPaolo, Ray & Lisa Oren, and Kellie Stevenson (Troop 159), Jim Schreiber (Troop 166), Elsie Louie (Troop 177), Don & Tina Choyce (Troop 184), and Paul Lipari (Troop 251).

For those in attendance at either or both of these recognition dinners, you know just how wonderful these events were -- and you probably ate very well. For those that didn't attend this year, we look forward to seeing you next year.  Thanks and congratulations once again to all of our volunteers!