Balboa Oaks District

January 2012 camping newsletter

2012-01-27T19:03:00.000-08:00

Whitsett First Year Pathfinders

The Pathfinder program is one of the highlights of the Camp Whitsett program. Designed for those new to Scouting, a veteran Whitsett staff member becomes patrol leader for the week and leads the Scouts through many of the Tenderfoot, Second, and First Class requirements. Scouts bond as a patrol and learn skills that will last a lifetime. To learn more, visit www.campwhitsett.org.

Staff available for troop visits

Emerald Bay and Whitsett are both filling fast, with several weeks already near capacity! If you have Scouts still on the fence about attending camp this summer, we are happy to have a representative from Emerald Bay or Whitsett come and speak at a troop meeting. To learn more or register for camp, please visit us at www.campwhitsett.org or www.campemeraldbay.org.

Emerald Bay adds "Rugged R"

With the introduction of the Scuba Merit badge, we have seen interest in our basic Scuba certification program Rugged S and our advanced certification program Rugged O soar. A number of troops expressed interest in another program for Scouts and Scouters who completed Rugged O. Emerald Bay is proud to introduce Rugged R, a Rescue Diver course offered at Emerald Bay this summer. Details and dates will be released at www.campemeraldbay.org.

Leader's meetings and registration

Summer grows closer by the day; we are weeks away from the first leader's meetings. Emerald Bay will be holding leader's meetings on March 3rd and 24th, and Whitsett will be holding theirs on April 14th. These meetings offer an opportunity for Scoutmasters to come together and learn all about visiting Emerald Bay and Whitsett and what they need to do to make sure that their unit is prepared for camp. If your unit has not yet registered for this summer, there is still time to sign your troop up before the leader's meeting. Even if your troop is going somewhere else this year, use this month to make sure that all Scouts have registered to go to camp somewhere. Remember, Emerald Bay and Whitsett also accept provisional Scouts and patrols!

Questions or comments? E-mail us at camping@bsa-la.org or call (818) 933-0130

February 5, 2012 - Troop 431 Lulu's fundraiser

2012-01-24T20:33:00.001-08:00

Please come to support Troop 431 and enjoy some great food at the same time.

Lulu's Restaurant Fundraiser

Place: Lulu's, 16900 Roscoe Blvd., Van Nuys (in front of Home Depot)

Date: Sunday Feb 5th

Time: All day, anytime

Must bring in flyer and give to cashier.

Lulu's will donate a portion of the bill to our troop.

In memory: Cathy Coyle-Thompson, 1959 - 2012

2012-01-24T19:54:00.000-08:00

I regret to inform you that Cathy Thompson, Advisor to Crew 550 and former Assistant Scoutmaster to Troop 550, passed away this morning due to complications following surgery. Services to be announced.

YIS, Steve Engstrom

Obituary

March 3, 2012 - USA Archery Level 1 Instructor certification class

2012-01-20T19:50:00.000-08:00

USA Archery
Level 1 Instructor Certification Class
March 3, 2012

This is the class you want to complete to qualify as a USA Archery instructor for your youth camp programs.

This is a full USAA Level 1 Archery Instructor certification.
(This is not just BSA's archery instructor training.)

The class is limited to 8 participants, so sign up early.

Priority registration will be given in this order:

Cub/Parent Weekend staff
Other Cub and Boy Scout camp staff
Merit badge counselors

Date: Saturday, March 3, 2012
Time: 8 am - 5 pm
Location: Valley Trails Ranch, 30910 Sloan Canyon Road, Castaic, CA 91384
Lunch: Lunch will not be provided. Bring your lunch with you! There are no restaurants nearby. Water will be available.
Cost: ~~$80~~ $30 (this is a one-time reduced price that will never be offered again)

What to bring:

Leave your archery equipment home. All equipment will be provided.
Sun block, lip balm (chapstick), wide brim hat, camp chair, water

What you get:

Instruction on how to set up and run a safe and fun archery program
Hands-on instruction and workshops
Instruction given in a non-threatening environment
Level 1 Archery Certification handbook
Level 1 Archery Instructor certificate - given at the end of the day

Payment must be received before your seat is saved.
Reservations and payment must be received by February 18, 2012.
(There is no registration form. Please include name, address, phone # and e-mail address.)

Send a check payable to "Greg Bassé" to 27765 Kristin Lane, Santa Clarita, CA 91350

Questions? E-mail me at greg@bassehome.com

Greg Bassé
Vice Chairman, Bill Hart District
(661) 510-3380
(661) 775-3939 fax

In memory: Mike Walker, 1947 - 2012

2012-01-19T22:22:00.000-08:00

It is with great sadness and a heavy heart that I tell you Mike Walker passed away this afternoon. Mike was extremely dedicated to both Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts.

We are sad for our loss and so grateful he is no longer suffering. Let us draw on His strength and gentle soul to offer us support while we are grieving.

This wonderful friend, father and husband will be missed. He will always be in our hearts.

A special remembrance service will be planned and we will notify you as soon as possible.

On behalf of the Walker Family,
Michele Smith

We will be celebrating the life of a wonderful man and a great friend who gave all he had to our youth in Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts. The memorial service for Mike Walker will be on Saturday, February 4th at 11 am at Northridge United Methodist Church at 9640 Reseda Blvd., Northridge 91324.

Immediately following will be a celebration as we remember all the wonderful years Mike has given to all of us and our children. Here, the family welcomes you to share your favorite memories and how he has effected you and your Scouting experience. Show your support by wearing your Scout uniform.

For any further information, contact Michele Smith:
(818) 830-6958 - Home
(818) 319-7510 - Cell
michele.smith@munchkin.com
kmjjsmith@hotmail.com

June 1-3, 2012 - The Big Ride

2012-01-09T11:29:00.000-08:00

Antelope Valley District - Boy Scouts of America present

The Big Ride 2012
3rd great year
More fun than ever!

The biggest Scout cycling event in the west!
Staged again this year from the beautiful Santa Fe Dam Recreation Area!
All units are invited from all councils - Scouts, Webelos, Crew!

High Adventure Boy Scout cycling
Wilderness campout and three fantastic rides: 25, 50, or 100 miles

Or ride 25 or 50 miles towards your Cycling merit badge!

Don't forget your Webelos!
25 km Webelos Cycling Award Ride

Friday, Saturday, and Sunday
June 1, 2, and 3

Santa Fe Dam Recreation Area
15501 East Arrow Highway - Irwindale (Next to 210 & 605 Fwys.)

Camping right next to the San Gabriel River bike path!

$20 gets you:

Overnight camping
Refreshment stops during the ride
Saturday night campfire
The best event patch in the world
Maps and more!

For registration info - Contact:
Vance Pomeroy
ASM, Crew Advisor
WLACC High Adventure Approval Counselor
(661) 361-5619
vance@juniperpacific.com

Hurry! Space is limited - first paid, first reserved

March 10, 2012 - Aviation Merit Badge Day

2012-01-09T11:25:00.000-08:00

Troop 67 Santa Monica is excited to once again host our Aviation Merit Badge Day, along with a number of other sponsors for the gathering on Saturday, March 10th to promote aviation.

It appears we will only be allowed 100 Scouts and will have to turn away any Scouts beyond out limit. We will start registration on Feb 1st.

YIS,
Michael Kent
Troop 67 Santa Monica
(310) 293-7041

Religious Emblems Coordinator position patches

2012-01-09T11:13:00.000-08:00

Persons serving as Council or District Religious Emblems Coordinators now have position patches available to them. Councils may secure these patches through BSA Supply.


Council REC Position Patch BSA Supply #614660		District REC Position Patch BSA Supply #614645

For a complete explanation of Religious Emblems Coordinators and to view a narrated PowerPoint presentation, go to http://www.scouting.org/scoutsource/Awards/ReligiousAwards/Coordinator.aspx

To get job descriptions, REC recruiting suggestions, handouts, bulletins, newsletters, and more, visit http://www.praypub.org/rec/

January 21-22, 2012 - Troop 10 Webelos Overnighter

2012-01-06T21:17:00.000-08:00

Troop 10 Reseda
Webelos Overnighter at Camp Josepho

Webelos II come and join us for a day of fun!

Saturday Jan 21, 9:00 am to Sunday Jan 22, 10:00 am

Archery, hiking, camping, Scoutcraft, Arrow of Light requirements

Cub Scouts and Cub parents come and visit us at our Monday January 16th Troop meeting 7:00 pm

First United Methodist Church of Reseda
18120 Saticoy Street
Reseda, CA 91335
Southwest corner of Lindley and Saticoy. Entrance on Lindley.

For more information contact
Bruce McDonald
bruce.mcdonald@csun.edu
(818) 808-5351

This event is $15 per person

April 28, 2012 - Wheeler Gorge Visitor Center open house

2012-01-03T20:10:00.000-08:00

Wheeler Gorge Visitor Center
2012 Open House
Discovering Nature
Saturday, April 28, 10 am to 2 pm

Wildlife, wildlife exhibits, gem and mineral displays, nature walks and more.

Free admission and free parking

Two nature walks repeated at 10:30 am and 1:00 pm

Wheeler Gorge Nature Trail
Wear hiking shoes. Steep areas in the chaparral.
Wheeler Gorge Campground Plant Walk
Wear comfortable shoes. An easy stroll.

Bring a lunch and enjoy the day!

Have your child work on earning a Los Padres National Forest Junior Ranger badge. Attend three programs sponsored by our center. Our open house counts as one program.

Wheeler Gorge Visitor Center
17017 Maricopa Highway (33)
Ojai, CA 93023
(805) 640-9060

January 28, 2012 - Outing Leader Course (University of Scouting)

2011-12-28T20:39:00.000-08:00

Western Los Angeles County Council of Boy Scouts
High Adventure Team
invites you to

Outing Leader Course
at the WLACC University of Scouting

This course provides participants with the basic information necessary to lead safe and enjoyable outings. It will also provide an overview of the H.A.T. awards program.

This course is the prerequisite for Basic Backpacking Awareness.

Who should attend: All registered Scouters (Cub and Boy Scout) who organize day hikes and car camping trips for their units.

What to bring: Scout “Class A” uniform, writing instrument and paper. Lunch is provided, or bring your own.

When: Saturday, January 28, 2012, 9:00 A.M. to 3:00 P.M.

Where: University of Scouting - Pinecrest School, 5975 Shoup St., Woodland Hills, CA (Corner of Shoup Avenue and Oxnard Street)

Cost: $10.00 (payable at the class) in addition to the University of Scouting fee.

For further information, please contact Glenn Covey (818) 787-2504 or Mark Rener (661) 252-0419

January 28, 2012 - College of Commissioner Science

2011-12-28T16:07:00.000-08:00

College of Commissioner Science
Presented by Western Los Angeles County Council
(In conjunction with Pow Wow and University of Scouting)

Save the Date
Saturday, January 28, 2012
8 AM to 4 PM

Pinecrest School, Woodland Hills
5975 Shoup Ave, Woodland Hills, CA 91367
(Corner of Shoup Avenue and Oxnard Street)

Dress is Scout Field Uniform
Cost is $15 (includes continental breakfast and lunch)

Become a better Commissioner!

Don't have your Bachelor of Commissioner Science degree? - Get it!
Started your Bachelor of Commissioner Science degree? - Finish it!
Started your Master of Commissioner Science degree? – Finish it!
Don't have your Doctor of Commissioner Science degree? – Start it!

All Unit Leaders Welcome

BSC and MCS students bring your "Commissioner Fieldbook for Unit Service" and your "Commissioner Helps for Packs, Troops, and Crews"

For more information contact:

Mike Henderson, Dean of Commissioner College at mkhende@aol.com
Vicky Goldberg, Asst. Dean of Commissioner College at vfgoldberg@yahoo.com

The value of time (Friends of Scouting donations)

2011-12-28T12:35:00.000-08:00

We know there is never enough of it. We know we need to value the little we have of it with our children. We know that with all the activities and commitments they have, we need to ensure that their time is well spent and meaningful.

For over 100 years, Scouting has kept its commitment to families to give parents and children time to explore the world together, to help children discover new skills and interests, and to prepare every Scout for life.

Scouting understands that children need balanced opportunities to grow; that time spent outdoors camping under the stars is as valuable as time spent building a robot, that learning how to play an instrument is as meaningful as learning how to play chess, and that knowing how to save a life is as fundamental a skill now as it was in 1910.

Support your child's development, exploration, and discovery with a gift to Scouting today. Your gift will support programs that directly benefit your child and your community while ensuring that we can offer Scouting to every child who wants to be a Scout regardless of their financial capacity.

Donation form

Sincerely,

Jim Rushton
Scout Executive/CEO

December 2011 camping newsletter

2011-12-21T15:57:00.000-08:00

Dear Friends of Whitsett, Emerald Bay, and Camp Josepho,

As we close the books on 2011, I want to thank all of you for helping to make this another amazing year for Scouting. In 2011, Scouts at Emerald Bay and Whitsett earned over 15,000 merit badges. Thanks to the generous support of our donors, we were able to provide well over $30,000 in scholarships for those who would otherwise be unable to experience summer camp, and over 21,000 people visited us at Whitsett, Emerald Bay, or Josepho.

As we head into 2012, we hear daily from Scouts and Scouters excited about all that lays ahead. While you enjoy the holidays with your friends and family, please take a moment to reflect on the difference that Scouting has made in your life, and to consider giving the gift of camping to someone in 2012. Thank you again for all of your support.

Yours in Scouting,

James Rushton
Scout Executive
camping@bsa-la.org
(818) 933-0130

January 28, 2012 - Cub Scout Leader Pow Wow, University of Scouting, College of Commissioner Science (instructors needed)

2011-12-13T19:05:00.000-08:00

Do you have a special way of running your meetings or events?
Are you really good at managing boy behavior?
Does your unit have special events that are not usually promoted in the Scouting world?
Does your unit committee run exceptionally well?
Do you like to do really fun and amazing things with your Scouts?
Do you have a special skill?

If you have said yes to any of these questions and you would like to share your knowledge with others for the benefit of Scouting, then we want to hear from you.

The 2012 Pow Wow / University of Scouting team is looking for instructors. Even if we did not list your special talent, we still would like to hear from you.

Please email us at wlaccpowwow2012@gmail.com

The event will take place on Saturday, January 28, 2012.

We look forward to hearing from you!

Robert Moore
Committee Chair

Holiday popcorn

2011-12-02T20:03:00.000-08:00

Western Los Angeles County Council
Holiday popcorn

You asked for an elegant way to thank your clients and customers during the holiday season, and we have delivered. Send the gift of gourmet popcorn and support Scouting in your community. We will package your choice of any of the products listed below in our new signature box, include your personal message, and take care of the shipping for you.

Make your gift giving easy this year!

Call or e-mail to place your order today:
(818) 993-0104
Joseph.Strother@scouting.org

Available products:
(all prices including U.S. shipping)

Caramel Corn (2 bags) - $30
White Chocolate Pretzels - $30
Caramel Corn with Almonds, Cashews and Pecans - $25
Chocolate Triple Delight - $27
Popping Corn (2 bags) - $24
Popping Corn and Caramel Corn (1 bag each) - $30

July 11-19, 2012 - Summit Shakedown

2011-12-02T20:02:00.000-08:00

Scouts, do you want to go really big and get wild? Are you looking for a very unique Scouting experience?

This is an exciting rare opportunity for Scouts to be among the first to camp at the Summit Bechtel Reserve in summer 2012, a year prior to the 2013 Jamboree!

You will be playing an important role in the final planning process for the 2013 National Scout Jamboree. Plus, you will be able to have a Jamboree experience at a fraction of the cost of a National Scout Jamboree!

Only 36 very lucky Scouts will have the opportunity to participate!

What do you have to do to go? How do you sign up? Please check out the flyer for more information!

You must hurry! Be one of the first 36 Scouts to submit your application along with your deposit before ~~December 28th, 2011~~ January 12, 2012.

Flyer and application

It's going to be big!

Jon Orlick
Scoutmaster, Jamboree Troop 828, Summit Bechtel Reserve

January 28, 2012 - Cub Scout Leader Pow Wow, University of Scouting, College of Commissioner Science

2011-11-29T22:39:00.000-08:00

Western Los Angeles County Council
Cub Scout Leader Pow Wow
University of Scouting
College of Commissioner Science

Save the date
Saturday, January 28, 2012 (8 am to 4 pm)

A day of fun-filled, action-packed hands-on supplemental training sessions for adult leaders to help us better deliver a fun and exciting program to our youth (most sessions are 50 minutes - a few are longer - you select the 6 you want!)

Classes (subject to change) and registration (coming soon!)

Questions? E-mail Robert Moore at wlaccpowwow2012@gmail.com

Adult religious awards

2011-11-12T15:01:00.000-08:00

Honor your leaders with an adult religious award. Adult recognitions are for individuals who have given outstanding service to youth through Scouting and also their faith community. Adult awards are by nomination only. Nominate someone today in order to recognize them on Scout Sunday in February.

Nomination forms and specific eligibility requirements

July 13-17, 2012 - Summit Shakedown

2011-11-12T14:42:00.000-08:00

Help us test the Summit! This is an exciting opportunity for Scouts to be among the first to camp at the Summit Bechtel Reserve and to play an important role in the final planning process for the 2013 National Scout Jamboree.

The purpose of the 2012 Summit Shakedown is to test various components of the new jamboree model on-site at the Summit with a manageable but meaningful number of staff and participants. The format will be a long weekend, starting on Friday morning, July 13, and ending on Tuesday morning, July 17.

Cost - $150 (travel expenses not included)

Included in cost:

All meals, beginning with lunch the day of arrival and ending with breakfast on the day of departure.
Tents, equipment, supplies, etc., similar to what will be provided at the 2013 jamboree.
Participants and staff will bring only their personal gear, as is intended for the 2013 jamboree.
Uniforms will be worn for travel to and from the Summit but will not be required during the on-site or off-site program activities.

Not included:

Transportation from home to the Summit and back will not be included.

Daily schedule and program content:

The particular program elements to be included will primarily be those that are new to the Summit jamboree model and are not intended to represent all of the program elements to be offered in 2013.
High adventure program by patrols. Possible program elements (subject to change) are climbing, rappelling, canopy tour, zip lines, BMX, skateboarding, mountain biking, shooting sports, and archery. No aquatics activities will be available on-site.

Medical:

Attendees are required to complete a BSA Annual Health and Medical Record. All completed forms should be submitted to the unit leader to have in their possession while traveling and at the Shakedown.
Please make sure that all participants meet the BMI standards as outlined on the jamboree website.

Return the following information along with your payment by December 7, 2011:

Name
Home address
City, state, ZIP
Phone
E-mail
BSA membership number
Home unit and number
Signature of applicant

WLACC, 16525 Sherman Way C-8, Van Nuys, CA 91406

There are a limited number of spaces available and will be filled on a first come, first served basis.

1-2629-170-00

November 26, 2011 - CSU Northridge 28th Annual Pow Wow

2011-11-09T21:01:00.000-08:00

CSU Northridge 28th Annual Pow Wow

November 26, 2011
10 am to 9 pm

American Indian Dance and Music
Children's Craft Activities
Arts and Crafts Vendors
Frybread

Free admission
All drums welcome

Parking $6
Everyone welcome

On CSUN campus, east of Reseda Blvd., on Plummer St.

For more information:
Phone: (818) 677-5030
E-mail: aisacsun@yahoo.com

November 13, 2011 - Volunteers needed to move equipment

2011-11-04T22:17:00.000-07:00

To every unit:

As we all know, Vinnie passed away a short while ago. He had been storing all of our equipment, which includes our things for Camporee, District Dinner, Cub Day Camp, Merit Badge Midways, and several other things we use for our activities. We have a deadline to remove it all from his old shop. We have found a new location in Van Nuys where we can store our stuff. We are on a very tight timetable and must pick up our gear on Sunday, November 13th, and bring it to the new storage the same day.

We need at least one adult volunteer from each unit to help. If you have older Scouts, they can help also. We are also in need of a large truck, flat bed is our first choice but a larger box truck will be OK. This is important and we need your participation. You may not realize it, but this is gear that each and every Unit is involved with, whether it be at Day Camp, Camporee, or other events during the year. Please don't ignore this and think someone else will handle it, send volunteers to help us with our equipment. RSVP back to me via e-mail to pauloliver@roadunner.com ASAP.

November 9, 2011 - Pack 911 fundraiser

2011-11-03T19:34:00.000-07:00

Bob's Big Boy, Northridge is excited to welcome
Cub Scout Pack 911, Northridge
Wednesday, November 9th
All day (open daily 8 am to midnight)

Bob's will donate 15% (pre-tax) cash back of every purchase with flyer.

8876 Corbin Ave.
Northridge, CA 91324
(818) 772-BOBS (2627)
corner of Nordhoff (Target center)

For more information, please contact
Jeanette Christopher
Bob's Big Boy Catering Coordinator

November 26, 2011 - Operation Gratitude Thanksgiving

2011-11-02T22:43:00.000-07:00

The Achoicominga Chapter Order of the Arrow and Operation Gratitude invite all Scouts 12 and older and adult Scouters to help with a packaging event at the National Guard Armory, 17330 Victory Blvd. in Van Nuys, on Friday, November 26th, starting at 9:00 A.M. Afternoon volunteers are also welcome.

As a part of our effort, we are also encouraging the donation of new or gently used Beanie Babies for the troops to use in foreign community relations.

To attend, you must have a signed Operation Gratitude release form. Please RSVP.

Steven Engstrom
Chapter Advisor
Balboa Oaks District
(818) 891-0761

May through July 2012 - Cub programs at Wheeler Gorge Visitor Center

2011-11-02T10:12:00.000-07:00

Cub Scout and Webelos Scout Award Programs for 2012

Reservations required! Please carpool, as parking is limited.

Because of the popularity (large attendance) of our programs, we do not have the time for each Cub Scout to discuss requirements with the presenter, and as such they will have to fulfill those requirements at the home, pack or den level.

Tiger Cubs, Cub Scouts, and Webelos Scouts may complete requirements in a family, den, pack, school, or community environment. Tiger Cubs must work with their parents or adult partners. Parents and partners do not earn loops or pins.

Where:

Wheeler Gorge Visitor Center
17017 Maricopa Highway (33) - 8 miles north of Ojai
across the highway from the Wheeler Gorge Campground

Bring lunch if attending both morning and afternoon programs. No lunch available at the center.

When:

The center opens at 9 am. Please arrive a little early for all the programs.

Saturday, May 12, 2012

9 am - Naturalists (covers Wolf electives #13 and #15)
1 pm - Forester

Saturday, May 19, 2012

10 am - Geology / Geologists
1 pm - Collecting

Saturday, June 9, 2012

10 am - Cub Wildlife Conservation Belt Loop and Pin (covers Bear electives)

Saturday, June 30, 2012

10 am - Forester
1 pm - Naturalists (covers Wolf electives #13 and #15)

Saturday, July 14, 2012

10 am - Collecting
1 pm - Geology / Geologists

Saturday, July 21, 2012

10 am - Cub Wildlife Conservation Belt Loop and Pin (covers Bear electives)

There will be a guided hike immediately after the Naturalists and Forester programs.

Fee: $3.00 per program for each adult and youth. Yes, the adults also need to pay.

Bring:

Lunch, drinks(s) and snack(s)
A comfortable chair for each adult, we provide chairs for the youth
A notepad, pencil and eraser (pen if you make no mistakes)
Empty egg carton for Geology / Geologist program

Wear:

Comfortable walking shoes – no sandals or flip-flops
Layered clothing
Long pants preferred over shorts, due to potential bug bites and poison oak
Bug repellent, if needed

Make your reservations now!

Send an email to both Mike Havstad mrhseh@earthlink.net and Gordon Hemphill moblfltstore@earthlink.net
In the e-mail subject line, type WGVC Scouting Programs
In the e-mail, leave the following information: Your name, unit number, city and awards your youth are interested in working on. Give a range of the number of youth that may attend, e.g. 6 to 10, and adults, e.g. 2 to 4, for each program.
You will hear from us by e-mail when we book your group.

Thank you to all Stoney Point volunteers

2011-11-02T09:27:00.000-07:00

I want to thank the Chatsworth Neighborhood Council, the Boy Scout units, REI, Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa and all our other sponsors that donated food, trash bags, rakes and gloves and our community volunteers who gave their time and energy in making this the best Stoney Point Clean-Up and a huge success.

Photos

It is people like you that make a difference in our communities, cities and nation by being committed to maintain our parks and recreational landmarks.

By donating your time, we have all come together as one to ensure that our future generations of children will be able to go to Stoney Point and see its majestic beauty.

This year we topped the attendance at 175 volunteers from near and far in our city.

I can only say wow!

As I looked at the crowd, I saw many returning faces, exemplifying our commitment to our environmental stewardship.

So to all of those that came out, did some great work, and had the spirit to help - I can only say thank you and see you next year.

If you need more information, please feel free to contact me and I will respond ASAP.

With sincere affection,

Les Salay
Boy Scouts Of America
Venture Crew 921
scoutingus@aol.com

Religious Emblem Award Bulletin

2011-10-28T07:49:00.000-07:00

The Balboa Oaks District is very proud of all adult leaders and youth who have participated in the Religious Emblem Award program for 2011. We are asking you to share your stories and photographs by sending them to melaniehammock@aol.com

2011 Scholarships Awarded

The National Catholic Committee on Scouting (NCCS) is pleased to announce the winners of the Emmett J. Doerr Memorial Distinguished Scout Scholarships for 2011. These scholarships were established eight years ago by the family of the late Emmett J. Doerr, a dedicated Catholic Scouter who was an active member of the NCCS. Each of the five $2000 scholarships recognizes outstanding Eagle Scouts who are registered in a program of the Boy Scouts of America. This year's winners were chosen from over 150 applicants from across the country based on a number of criteria including service to their home parish, leadership in their Scout units and other school or community organizations, letters of recommendation and their scholastic record. The recipients are:

Cameron Hamilton of Sugar Land, TX, Diocese of Galveston/Houston
Jared Linney of Fresno, CA, Diocese of Fresno
Antonio (Tony) G. Messina-Doerning of Pasadena, CA, Archdiocese of Los Angeles
Benjamin J. Moeller of Cincinnati, OH, Archdiocese of Cincinnati
Thomas "Tucker" White of New Rochelle, NY, Archdiocese of New York

http://www.nccs-bsa.org/national/EJDoerrScholarship.php

Scholarships Chairman Jay Schnapp announces the following recipients of 2011 National Jewish Committee on Scouting (NJCoS) Eagle Scout Scholarships:

Chester M. Vernon Memorial Eagle Scout Scholarship ($1,000/year for 4 years) - Andrew L. Klock of Nanuet, NY
Rick Arkans Eagle Scout Scholarship ($1,000) - Brian M. Ginell of Thousand Oaks, CA
Frank L. Weil Memorial Eagle Scout Scholarship - First Place ($1,000) - Max L. Olender of West Bloomfield, MI
Frank L. Weil Memorial Eagle Scout Scholarship - Second Place ($500) - Ryan M. Alexander of Bellaire, TX and Adam J. Goldman of Dallas, TX

http://www.jewishscouting.org/

Our Lady of the Angels

One hundred sixty five Scouts were honored at the 85th Annual Archdiocese of Los Angeles Presentation Mass held at the Cathedral of Our Lady of the Angels. The Catholic Committee on Scouting presented 144 Ad Altare Dei and 21 Pope Pius XII Religious Emblems. Additionally, six Scouts received the coveted local Chi Rho Award by earning all four of the Religious Emblems.

Program Anchors Instruction at Philmont Conference

The annual LDS leadership conference at eastern New Mexico's Philmont Scout Ranch is, at once, an intensive training seminar and a spiritual gathering of like-minded youth leaders and their families. Many come to the Scout training perhaps second-guessing their decision to burn a week of vacation time to sleep in tents and spend hours each day sitting in classroom instruction. Many more leave the storied ranch with spirits soaring after having known "a Zion's experience."

http://ldsbsa.org/

Religious Emblems

"A Scout is reverent." All Scouts show this by being faithful in their duty to God. Some go further and give special service. This can qualify them for a religious emblem. Such an emblem is not a Scouting award. It is conferred on a Scout by his religious leader. Each faith has its own requirements for earning its emblem.

Listed below are the emblems and where to find out about them. Before writing or visiting your local council service center, check with your religious leader.

http://meritbadge.org/wiki/index.php/Template:Religious_Emblems/req

December 2-4, 2011 - Troop 911 Webelos Weekend

2011-10-21T12:17:00.000-07:00

Troop 911's Webelos Weekend is an adventure designed to introduce Webelos Scouts and their parents to the thrilling Scouting adventures ahead, and to help them make the transition into Boy Scouting exciting. The weekend is filled with fun activities, intriguing demonstrations, and plenty of outdoor excitement.

Our theme this year is Cooking!

Troop 911 is inviting all 1st and 2nd Year Webelos to attend. Troop 911 is a boy-led troop. Unlike Cub Scouts, the boys make the decisions and provide the leadership. Adults are there to give advice and to assure safety. The Webelos Scouts will be assigned to Patrols for the weekend, so that they can experience a model Boy Scout Troop campout led by experienced Boy Scouts. Parents will be given an orientation on Boy Scouting, and will have a relaxing weekend campout plus a chance to meet many of Troop 911's adult leaders (while their Webelos participate in troop activities).

When: ~~November 11th, 12th, 13th~~ December 2nd, 3rd, 4th

Where:
Castaic Lake Recreation area
32132 Castaic Lake Drive
Castaic, CA 91384

We will meet to depart for this trip on Friday Evening at 6 pm at Northridge United Methodist Church, 9650 Reseda Blvd, Northridge, CA 91324. The cross streets are Reseda and Superior.

There will be an orientation Troop meeting on Tuesday November 8th at the same address. Come visit us even if you can't make it to this trip!

Thank you.

Questions: Contact our Scoutmaster, Jon Orlick (818) 987-9840 Email: Jorlick@alwaysvending.com

WLACC October 2011 camping newsletter

2011-10-20T17:55:00.000-07:00

Spring camping and summer 2012

Many units ask if there is a way to get work done on merit badges before summer camp. Camp Emerald Bay, Camp Whitsett, and Camp Josepho are all available during the spring and fall for use by troops. We have many troops that design weekend camps where Scouts can earn merit badges and prepare for summer camp. To learn more, please visit:

NRA partnership

Camp Emerald Bay, Camp Whitsett, and Camp Josepho have partnered with the NRA to help increase the quality and volume of field sports instruction delivered at the camps. The NRA gave each camp a grant allowing the purchase of new rifles, shotguns, bows, and equipment. This equipment helped Scouts earn over 400 Shotgun merit badges, 520 Rifle merit badges, and 350 Archery merit badges this summer.

Whitsett whitewater rafting

Fodor's travel guide calls the Kern River's rapids the most exciting in the state, and Scouts at Camp Whitsett have the chance to brave those rapids next summer! Partnering with Sierra South, Camp Whitsett is offering Scouts the opportunity to try their hand at Class 2 and 3 rapids on the Kern River. Experienced guides will lead Scouts on this exciting and memorable adventure. To see a video of the rafting experience at Whitsett, visit www.campwhitsett.org

Scuba merit badge at Emerald Bay

Since the Scuba merit badge was introduced in 2010, the program has become one of Emerald Bay's most popular. Scouts aged twelve and up can earn their open water certification as well as a merit badge. Scouts spend the week exploring one of the world's top diving spots around the coasts of beautiful Catalina Island while earning a merit badge for their efforts. For more information or to sign up for the Scuba merit badge, visit www.campemeraldbay.org

Apply now for camp staff

For many Scouts, working on camp staff is a great way to give back. Camp Emerald Bay and Camp Whitsett welcome applications from all Scouts aged 14 and up. Scouts can apply to Whitsett staff until February 1st, but the Emerald Bay staff application period closes on November 1st, 2011! Don't miss out.

Be sure to visit www.campemeraldbay.org/emerald-bay/jobs or www.campwhitsett.org/about/employment-opportunities for more information on how to apply.

Questions or comments? E-mail us at camping@bsa-la.org or call (818) 933-0130

November 5, 2011 - Evan Engelking's Eagle project

2011-10-14T11:12:00.000-07:00

WHO: Evan Engelking

WHEN: Saturday, Nov 5, 2011 8:00am - 2:00pm

WHERE: Cerebral Palsy Center, 11051 Old Santa Susanna Road, Chatsworth, CA 91311
From the 118 freeway, exit at Topanga Canyon and head south. The Center will be on the west side of Topanga Canyon Blvd.

Please join Evan and Troop 92 for this very worthy cause. Evan will be building 100 feet of fencing adjacent to the residence quarters at the Center.

A light breakfast, snacks, and lunch will be provided.

Please bring gloves, goggles, and shovels if you have them. Wear your work clothes and boots, and don't forget your sunscreen!

Evan is also looking for sponsors to off-set the cost of this project. A monetary donation in any amount would be greatly appreciated. Please make your checks out to BSA Troop 92.

October 19, 2011 - Internet rechartering training

2011-10-10T13:50:00.000-07:00

It is almost that time to get your unit rechartered for the 2012 season. Join us for a formal training on how this process works and to pick up your unit's recharter packet!

Time: 7 pm
Date: October 19th

Anna Ruggieri Service Center
16525 Sherman Way, Unit C-8
Van Nuys, CA 91406

We will go over changes from last year's system, what is required for the recharter, when the online system will open, and other very important practices on how to make this process run smoothly.

Please contact Stephen Snowden at ssnowden@bsa-la.org or (818) 933-0129 to confirm whether your unit will be sending an adult representative to the training.

Council information on Internet rechartering

November 5, 2011 - Troop 431 silent auction fundraiser

2011-10-04T18:50:00.000-07:00

Date: Saturday, November 5th - Saturday
Time: 4-6 PM
Place: St. Bridget of Sweden School
7120 Whitaker Ave, Lake Balboa, CA 91406

Great silent auction items!

UltraZone birthday party
Museum tickets
Restaurants
Comedy clubs
Dodger tickets
Baskets
And more...

Refreshments will also be provided.

Hope to see you all there!

Thanks,
Troop 431 Fundraising Committee

Questions? Call Angela Estany (818) 681-7232

October 1, 2011 - North Valley Disaster Preparedness Fair

2011-09-23T11:46:00.000-07:00

North Valley Disaster Preparedness Fair
Saturday, October 1, 2011, 11 am - 3 pm
Fire Station #87 - 10124 Balboa Blvd. (between Devonshire and Lassen)

Your neighborhood councils will give away 300 emergency preparedness bags (1 per family)
Two drawings for a backpack filled with emergency supplies and resources
Yogi Bear Shakey-Quakey School House
Free child ID, LAFD Jaws-of-Life demonstration
Red Cross, LAPD, LADWP, HAM Radio, CERT, NOAA, So. Cal. Gas Co., Kids Safety Puppet Show

Free hot dogs and burgers from noon to 2 pm
Sponsored by Northridge Neighborhood Councils and Councilmember Mitchell Englander
with special thanks to LAFD Station 87

Neighborhood Councils are elected by the stakeholders in each region to promote participation in government and make government more responsive to local needs. They provide an open forum for public discussion of issues concerning the local area and the larger region and facilitate communication between the City of Los Angeles and community stakeholders.

In recognition of the commitment and tremendous value CERT members contribute to their communities, we will present the first 100 CERT volunteers with a special EP item for your kit. Simply show us your course completion certificate, callout team ID, or your CERT vest at the registration table. Thanks to you all!

Sponsoring Neighborhood Councils:

The North Valley Disaster Preparedness Fair is a joint community event to help bring awareness to being better prepared for emergencies and disasters.

This annual event is supported by your local Neighborhood Councils and Councilmember Mitchell Englander, with the participation of various City, State, and Federal agencies.

2011-12 High Adventure courses

2011-09-16T08:08:00.000-07:00

2011

September 8 (indoor) / October 8-9 (outdoor): Basic Backpacking

2012

January 28: Outing Leader
February 4 (indoor) / February 25-26 (outdoor): Winter Backpacking
April 7 (indoor) / May 12-13 (outdoor): Junior Basic Backpacking
May 19-20: Desert and Astronomy Awareness
September 22 (indoor) / October 6-7 (outdoor): Basic Backpacking

September 25, 2011 - Blood drive

2011-09-13T10:57:00.000-07:00

St. Catherine of Siena Blood Drive

Sunday, September 25, 2011
8:00 am to 2:00 pm

St. Catherine of Siena Church
18115 Sherman Way, Reseda, CA
Bloodmobile in parking lot

Identification is required.

All participants will receive a Mimi's Cafe appetizer, 2 Laugh Factory tickets, and can enter a drawing for a chance to win a $1,500 gift card! (Details will be provided at the drive.)

To schedule your appointment, visit https://www.givelife.org/ and enter the sponsor code Stcatherine

For information, contact Manny Gallegos at manuelng@att.net or (818) 257-1762.

Contact Sherry with the American Red Cross for eligibility questions at (818) 992-2005.

Sponsored by the youth of St. Catherine of Siena Parish:
St. Catherine of Siena Parish School
St. Catherine's Office of Religious Education (SCORE)
and the Scouts (Cub Scout Pack 328 and Boy Scout Troop 328)

November 11-12, 2011 - Webelos Overnighter at Six Flags Magic Mountain

2011-09-13T09:56:00.000-07:00

This event is being coordinated by Brandy Sweeney and sponsored by Pack 490, Newhall.

There will be Boy Scouts present working on Scout Skills with the Webelos and this qualifies as an official Webelos Overnighter event. Webelos I and Webelos II Scouts, as well as parents and other Scout family members are welcome.

Flyer

Included in the price is the overnight campout inside of the park underneath the rollercoaster, 2 meals (dinner and breakfast), and an all day pass to Six Flags Magic Mountain!

All for only $46!

All you have to bring is your sleeping bag, a tent (optional), and your Scouting spirit!

Please contact Brandy Sweeney at brandyshea74@gmail.com or (661) 714-1663 for more information!

Last day to sign up and pay is September 29. Don't wait, space is limited!

September 24, 2011 - Back to Scouting Fun Day

2011-09-09T21:29:00.000-07:00

To all Scouters and Families,

The Valley Scout Shop will be having a Back to Scouting Fun Day on Saturday, September 24, from 10 am to 2:30 pm, in the parking lot at the Scout Shop.

Please bring your Raingutter Regatta boat if you have one; if you don't, then come buy one to race.

Food, prizes, and fun! (Food from 12 pm to 2 pm)

This would be a great opportunity for your Cub Scout to invite a friend to experience our great Cub Scout program and to have fun at the same time.

Any questions, please call me at (818) 781-1296. Hope to see everyone there.

Thank you,

Cindy Noriega
Senior Store Manager
Valley Scout Shop 5870
16525 Sherman Way Unit C-8 (rear door)
Van Nuys, CA 91406
(818) 781-1296
(818) 781-1298 fax
cindy.noriega@scouting.org

October 30, 2011 - Troop 36 merit badge midway and adult CPR/AED class

2011-09-08T20:40:00.000-07:00

Who: Troop 36

What: Fall 2011 merit badge midway

When: Sunday, October 30, 2011, 1 to 6 pm

Where: Temple Beth Hillel, 12326 Riverside Drive, Valley Village, CA 91607

Why: Scouts can earn a variety of merit badges

How: Sign-up form, schedule and prerequisites

Adult CPR/AED Training (2 pm to 5:30 pm) will again be offered for a nominal fee of $25
Scouters will have the opportunity to fulfill CPR training requirements
Red Cross certification
Send check or money order payable to BSA Troop 36 c/o Larry Turner (see midway sign-up form for address)

Contact persons:

Mark Cutler (818) 508-9442 markjaycut@sbcglobal.net
Claudio Sapir (818) 521-3567 raul-locksmith@sbcglobal.net

Order of the Arrow news

2011-09-01T19:00:00.000-07:00

Ceremonies

We are in the process of putting together ceremony teams. They will be able to do our internal ceremonies, as well as ceremonies for units, such as bridging and dancing at Blue and Gold Dinners.

Upcoming events

September 9-11 is our Fall Ordeal at Camp Whitsett. Candidates elected earlier will be able to attend this induction weekend.
September 16-18 is our Section Conclave, at Camp Rancho Allegre, in Santa Barbara (near Lake Cachuma). There will be fun, training, fellowship, and shows. Our lodge is one of six lodges that make up the W4N Section.
October 29 is our Lodge Summit, in Saugus this year. This year we will be shooting rifles all day, having lunch and fun, and electing next year's lodge officers.
July 30th to August 7th, 2012 is the National OA Conference (NOAC). It will be held at Michigan State University. Due to the cost, we are putting together a contingent list. Like a Jamboree, this is for OA members from all over the nation. At past NOACs, there have been 4,000 to 6,000 in attendance.
July 15-24, 2013 is the National Jamboree, at the Summit Bechtel Family National Scout Reserve in West Virginia. Signups have started for OA staffing.

Help us become a Quality Lodge

Our lodge is trying to become a Quality Lodge. We have been a Quality Lodge for the past three years. This year, we're falling short in the following areas:

Dues renewal. If you are a past member and haven't paid your dues, it's only $14 for the rest of the year. If you have paid, thank you.
Conversion from Ordeal to Brotherhood honor levels. Those of you who have been a member for 10 months or more, we need you to seal your membership by becoming a Brotherhood member.

Full list of Quality Lodge requirements

Lost Arrowmen

These last two months, we sadly lost two long-time members of our OA chapter.

At the end of July, Randy Stoller passed away, after fighting a serious illness for over six months. He became a member of the OA in 1979. He was a Vigil Honor member, and a recipient of the Silver Shark and Silver Beaver.

On August 24, Vinnie Ruggieri passed away. He was both a Scout and a Scouter. He went through his Ordeal back east. He was a Silver Beaver recipient, responsible for the remodeling of the WLACC office, among many other things.

We extend our deepest sympathy to both of their families. They will be missed by all, both in family and in Scouting. God bless Randy and Vinnie.

September 10, 2011 - NRA fundraiser

2011-08-30T12:48:00.000-07:00

Come and join us in support of the Friends of NRA!

This year the Friends of NRA generously awarded over $27,000 to Camps Josepho, Emerald Bay, and Whitsett to strengthen their extraordinary shooting programs. This support enabled us to serve nearly 10,000 youth. On September 10, 2011 the Friends of NRA are holding their 6th annual fundraiser. Please come and help support an organization that has done so much to support our camps and the youth they serve.

Friends of NRA
6th Annual Fundraiser
on behalf of the NRA Foundation

Saturday, September 10, 2011
Ronald Reagan Presidential Library
40 Presidential Drive, Simi Valley, CA 93065

The event begins at 5:00 PM, but participants are welcome to visit the museum prior to the event.

For more information, please see the flyer, or contact NRA Field Representative Mike Davis at (714) 368-0451 or mdavis@nrahq.org or Shawn Halbert at (818) 933-0130 or camping@bsa-la.org

Help save McGrath State Beach

2011-08-30T12:18:00.000-07:00

As you are probably well aware, McGrath State Beach/Park, located in Ventura, is slated for closure on September 6th due to budgetary constraints. This is a beloved location for Scouts from all over Southern California. In today's Los Angeles Times is an article about a way in which the park could receive the funding that it needs in order to be spared. Coca-Cola has a contest for voting for America's Favorite Park, and currently, McGrath is #6. We need to record as many votes as possible to preserve this beloved Scouting venue.

Voting site

When the map pops up, enter "McGrath" in the search line, then click on the voting button to register the vote.

Not only should Scouters vote, but all friends, family and acquaintances. Time is of the essence, so please encourage everyone to vote today.

Yours in Scouting,

Jay Kenney
Assistant Scoutmaster
Troop 1, West Los Angeles

WLACC August 2011 camping newsletter

2011-08-29T20:41:00.000-07:00

Early registration special!

Camp Emerald Bay and Camp Whitsett are now accepting registrations for the summer of 2012! As an incentive to units who register early, we are keeping 2011's prices constant until September 15th. On September 15th, prices for Camp Emerald Bay will increase to keep pace with rising costs. We want as many troops as possible to take advantage of the discount, so register now! To register for Emerald Bay, please visit www.campemeraldbay.org, for Whitsett please visit www.campwhitsett.org

Sailing at Emerald Bay

Camp Emerald Bay's sailing program received a boost in 2011 thanks to a grant from the Johnson Foundation that allowed for the purchase of new gear and equipment to help fund the program. In the past five years, over 1,000 Scouts have learned to sail at Emerald Bay, and this grant will help extend this wonderful program to many more. For more information about sailing and other merit badges at Camp Emerald Bay, please visit www.campemeraldbay.org

Year-round adventure

Emerald Bay, Josepho, and Whitsett all offer myriad opportunities for excitement and adventure year-round. Whether it is with your troop, school, youth group, or even your family, opportunities abound to visit camp throughout the year. With programs designed to suit groups of all sizes, Emerald Bay and Whitsett make unforgettable destinations for all kinds of events. Come and experience all the fun that camp has to offer without having to wait for next summer! To learn more about Emerald Bay's year-round programs, please visit www.campemeraldbay.org, to learn more about Whitsett's visit www.campwhitsett.org and for Josepho's please visit www.bsa-la.org

Cub Scout camping programs

Camp Emerald Bay, Camp Whitsett, and Camp Josepho all offer camping opportunities for Cubs and Cub packs. Start planning now to ensure you don't miss out on any. Camp Whitsett has Cub Weekends on Memorial Day and each August, in addition to a Webelos summer camp in July. Camp Josepho hosts two sessions of Webelos resident camp each summer and four Cub Family weekends throughout the year. Camp Emerald Bay hosts a Cub Family weekend each March and November. Each of these events offers wonderful opportunities to acquaint your Cub Scout with camping and teach them about all Scouting can offer. To learn more, please visit www.bsa-la.org

Questions or comments? Email us at camping@bsa-la.org or call (818) 933-0130

In memory: Vinnie Ruggieri, 1950 - 2011

2011-08-27T18:11:00.000-07:00

(Thursday, August 25, 2011)

Vinnie Ruggieri, a close friend, my mentor, and a great Scouter, has passed on last night. Words can not convey what he has meant to Scouts and Scouting in our District and Council. We would need a book to list not only his accomplishments for Scouting, but his love for Scouting and the Scouts. Keep Joel, Stella and his family in your prayers.

With great sadness, Paul Oliver

(Thursday, August 25, 2011)

Friends, it is with unspeakable sadness that I share the news of the death of Vinnie Ruggieri. Vinnie was recently hospitalized for internal discomfort and passed away at the hospital late last night.

I spoke with both Keith Taylor and Brian Eget a short time ago. The family has decided that, in lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the WLACC Boy Scouts. Direct any contributions to our local office, attention Keith Taylor.

He was one of the kindest, generous, most thoughtful man I have ever met. We will all miss him. He's with his Mom!

Jim Rushton

(Saturday, August 27, 2011)

To all in Scouting,

As most of you know, a great friend and great Scouter, Vinnie Ruggieri, passed away on Wednesday evening. He leaves an empty space in our hearts and in Scouts that cannot be filled. We will be able to pay our respects and share our memories at 12 Noon on Saturday, September 3rd, 2011. His services will be held at Forrest Lawn Memorial Park in the Hollywood Hills, 6300 Forrest Lawn Drive, Los Angeles, CA 90068.

Map to Forrest Lawn Memorial Park: MapQuest / Google Maps

Everyone is invited to attend, and for those attending, please come in your Scout uniform. There is no better tribute than to proudly wear your full Class A Boy Scout uniform. The family requests that you send an e-mail response confirming your attendance so appropriate arrangements can be made. Please e-mail me at pauloliver@roadrunner.com It is critical to get your response ASAP.

All of us who know Vinnie know of his great love for Scouting and our Scouts. The family asks that no flowers be sent, but instead donations be made to help support that great love, the Boy Scouts of America. Please send any donations to the address below, and make sure you note it is for the Vinnie Ruggieri Memorial:

WLACC
Attn. Keith Taylor
16525 Sherman Way, Unit C-8
Van Nuys, CA 91406

We all have many memories of Vinnie, and the family is putting together a remembrance and would like you to contribute. Please write down your memories, stories, and include any pictures you may have, and send them to me at pauloliver@roadrunner.com Vinnie’s longtime friend Keith Taylor will be delivering the eulogy, and he would like to share some of your comments and stories. Your responses need to be sent as quickly as possible. Please respect the family and their privacy and do not contact them via phone or e-mail at this time.

The family asks that you forward this info to everyone in our Scouting community.

Thanks, Paul Oliver

Vinnie's guestbook at legacy.com

September 10-11, 2011 - Camping/hiking at Mt. Whitney

2011-08-26T12:32:00.000-07:00

If there is a troop that would like to go climb Mt. Whitney, I would ask that they have one adult and transportation from their troop. We will always have 2 deep, I just want a leader from the other troop that knows their boys.

Right now I think that we will have 4-5 extra permits, maybe more.

We will camp Friday September 10 at Whitney Portal and hike in Saturday, climb the peak Saturday morning and hike out the same day, returning Saturday night.

They will be responsible for their own food and transportation.

Permits are $5.00.

You can call me at (661) 675-7321 (cell) or (661) 944-3000 (home) - leave a message at both.

Thanks,

Garth
Troop 737

September 7, 2011 - Construction Explorer Post open house

2011-08-16T15:24:00.000-07:00

We are excited to announce the formation of the first Construction Explorer Post in the state of California!

The open house meeting will be held on Wednesday, September 7, 2011 and will be open to males and females who are juniors and seniors in high school.

Flyer

Best regards,

Brenda Bradford
Learning for Life Director
16525 Sherman Way C-8
Van Nuys, CA 91406
(818) 933-0121 phone
(818) 901-4890 fax

September 30 to October 2, 2011 - Catholic Scout Retreat

2011-08-15T18:40:00.000-07:00

Put on your unit's 2011 calendar now!

Catholic Scout Retreat XX - 2011

When:

5 pm Friday, September 30, 2011 to 11 am Sunday, October 2, 2011
Program starts promptly at 8 am Saturday morning.
Late arrivals should check in by 7:30 am Saturday morning.

Where:

Veteran's Memorial Park
Sylmar, California

Cost:

$25 per Scout
$20 for registrations postmarked by September 12

Registration and unit leader guide:

See our website

Questions:

Contact Maureen Brown at (323) 257-0067 or Maureen.Brown@ccsala.org

Spiritual High Adventure!

The theme of our 2011 Retreat is "Mission" and our patron is Blessed Junipero Serra, who was the founder of the California missions.
The annual Scout Retreat is for boys and girls of all ages, grades 1 to 12 in the Boy Scout, Girl Scout and Camp Fire programs, and for youth aged 14 to 20 in Venture Crew, Explorer and Sea Scout programs.
Visitors from all dioceses are always welcome.

More information

September 10, 2011 - Robert Aguilar's Eagle project

2011-08-15T18:12:00.000-07:00

Dear Scouting Family:

My name is Robert Aguilar, an Eagle candidate from Troop 513 in Santa Clarita.

I am requesting your assistance for my Eagle project at OLPH Church and School on September 10th, 2011 in creating an Emergency Preparedness Video.

Flyer

OLPH and the Boy Scouts of America mean a great deal to me and have aided in my progression towards my journey to the rank of Eagle and towards becoming a man, so I have decided to give back.

For those interested in showcasing their unique abilities for the stage, I am in need of actors for multiple different scenes.

For those who wish to be involved in the magic behind the scenes, I am also in need of prop hands to aid in the setup of the scenes.

If you wish to be an actor, please let me know so I can send you one of the various scripts I have prepared.

Scouts participating will have the opportunity to get valuable first aid requirements signed off (from Tenderfoot to First Class) as well as receive a free first aid kit.

I am also in need of adult leaders for my project.

The more volunteers, the faster my Eagle project will get done.

All Scouts and leaders must be in Class A uniform.

Please assist me in my journey to Eagle, as I cannot do this alone. Your participation will be put towards a wonderful cause and will be greatly appreciated.

Thank you so much for your help,

Robert Aguilar
Eagle Scout Candidate
Troop 513 - Santa Clarita, CA

October 29, 2011 - Annual Stoney Point clean-up

2011-08-05T00:21:00.000-07:00

Can you believe it? 7 years of dedicated volunteerism and we are growing in numbers of volunteers and sponsors.

This is a way-in-advance notice, but I know many of you are planning your recreational agendas already. Please pass this on to all you friends, families and everyone you know so they can plan ahead also.

What started out as a Scout Den activity of 10 people has raised the bar in 2010 to over 100 dedicated and eco-friendly Scout Units, families, friends and many organizations such as REI Sporting Goods, which has been with us all along providing prizes, Leave No Trace educational classes and the forever coveted REI Stoney Point Clean Up shirts.

Scouting Venture Crew 921 Master Chef Randy will be serving hot dogs and all the fixings.

Like last year, we will pay our respects to those who have lost loved ones by cleaning and maintaining the Metrolink plaque that Crew 921 has adopted to keep it dignified and reverent since its inauguration in 2008.

We have also increased new sponsors that will facilitate off-street parking, bathrooms and funding for the event.

We are grateful to the Department of Public Works for providing trash bags, gloves, rakes and removing the mass amount of debris from the park.

As in years past, we thank CD12 District Councilman Greig Smith and now our newly elected Councilman Mitch Englander's office for their support and spreading the word.

Mother Nature will give back to you and your children the enjoyment of a landmark rock climbing mountain and hiking trail for the enjoyment for future generations long after we have passed through its trails.

When: Saturday, October 29 from 8:00 am till 11:00 am.

Then it's time to eat - compliments of our neighborhood councils that have also partnered with us in years past, donating coffee, chocolate and bagels and funding of the hot doggies after the ever popular photo shoot.

Please mark your calendars, tell your friends and community organizations that we are back again to rock, and let's see if we can top the attendance numbers beyond the years of past!

We will be having more interactive elements to this years clean-up and will also have special activities to thank all of you for your continued support and environmental stewardship.

A formal mass media announcement, press releases and posts on Facebook and other social networking site sites will also be included in our promotion program and will be released once we have all our rockers rolling.

If your organization would like to contribute or sponsor this event, please feel free to contact me at scoutingus@aol.com and we will include your organization or clubs in our final press packet.

See you on the hill!

Forever a Scout,
Les Salay
Crew 921
Unit Commissioner
scoutingus@aol.com

July 15-24, 2013 - National Scout Jamboree

2011-08-03T14:52:00.000-07:00

2013 National Scout Jamboree home page

Selection of adult leadership for the WLACC Contingent is currently underway with tour overviews for each unit to follow. Choices of the unit you would like to be a part of will be granted on a first come, first served basis.

Please see the Scout Participant Qualifications below for details.

For the first time, Venturers are invited to be participants at the Jamboree! Please see the Venturing Participant Qualifications below for details.

Regards,
Eric Miele
2013 National Scout Jamboree
Council Contingent Coordinator

Scout Participant Qualifications

Must have a current BSA membership with a Boy Scout troop or Varsity Scout team.
Must be at least First Class Scouts.
Must be at least 12 years of age by the first day of the jamboree or an 11 year old that has graduated the 6th grade, but has not reached their 18th birthday by the last day of the jamboree.
Be approved by the unit leader and local council.
Participate in a pre-jamboree training experience.
Have filed a Jamboree Personal Health and Medical record with the council jamboree committee before the pre-jamboree training.
Submit all registration fees per the local council's payment schedule.

Venturing Participant Qualifications

Must have a current BSA membership with a Venturing crew or ship.
Must have graduated the 8th grade or be at least 14 years of age by the first day of the jamboree, but have not reached their 21st birthday by the last day of the jamboree.
Participate in a pre-jamboree training experience.
Be approved by the unit leader and local council.
Have filed a Jamboree Personal Health and Medical record with the council jamboree committee before the pre-jamboree training.
Submit all registration fees per the local council's payment schedule.

Need information from archery / BB gun / rifle range masters

2011-08-03T10:19:00.000-07:00

The Council Leadership Training Committee has been asked to put together a list of qualified Archery, BB Gun and Rifle Range Masters that can be made available to the Council camps and units.

To build this list, we need your assistance in getting the names and certifications of folks qualified. Specifically, the following information is needed:

Name, address, phone number, email address
Copies of the specific certification documents such as cards issued by Boy Scouts of America from National Camp School for Shooting Sports, Council or District Trainings for Cub Scout Archery or BB Guns, NRA for Rifle, USA Archery for Archery. The document copies can be PDF files sent electronically.

The contact information and documentation can be dropped off at a Council office marked "To the attention of Arthur Pinkers" or it may be emailed to arthurtscout@socal.rr.com for review and processing.

Each individual must turn in this information personally to their respective council office or send a scanned copy of their certifications personally, because they must show evidence of their qualification, aka cards, certificates, etc..

Thank you for your assistance,

Arthur Pinkers
W.L.A.C.C. Council Leadership Training Chair
Volunteer
(661) 263-3896

In memory: Randy Stoller, 1959 - 2011

2011-08-01T18:31:00.000-07:00

WLACC Scouters,

Randy Howard Stoller passed away on Saturday, July 30, 2011 in the evening.

Services are being held at Eden Memorial Park (11500 Sepulveda Blvd., Mission Hills, CA 91345) at 11 am on Tuesday, August 2, 2011.

Randy will truly be missed.

Sincerely,
Christine Medina
Team Coordinator 1
Anna Ruggieri Service Center

Journey to Excellence score cards

2011-06-24T14:01:00.000-07:00

We need your help to correctly report training records for the Unit Journey to Excellence Score Cards.

Please verify we have your records correct by following the following steps.

Go to http://www.scouting.org/
Choose "Log in" (upper right corner), or create a login if you don't already have one
Choose "Training Validation" (left side under "Training")
Choose the "All Training" bullet and search by your user ID or membership number
Verify training records, especially those related to your current position
For missing trainings, print the council's Training Record Update Form
Do the following:

Enter personal information so we can make sure we update the correct records
List missing training titles
Attach copies of completion certificates
Drop off completed forms at local service center or mail to Van Nuys office

Yours In Scouting,
Arthur Pinkers

W.L.A.C.C. Council Leadership Training Chair

Volunteer

(661) 263-3896

July 16, 2011 - Discover Scuba

2011-06-14T11:19:00.000-07:00

Discover Scuba
July 16th
Available from 11 am to 4 pm (takes about an hour)

Open to anybody from 11 to 17 years old. Must have a parent or guardian present.
Parents must complete a medical questionnaire for minors before session.

This is a great way to see if you would like to do this as a family hobby.

You can also sign up for the open water course, the first level of certification.

Also required for Scuba merit badge.

If you have your own snorkeling gear, feel free to bring it to use.

If you are a Scout, you can earn the Scuba BSA patch (cost is $5)

RSVP required:
Fred Brown
Master Scuba Diver Trainer
Certified PADI / First Aid / CPR Instructor
(661) 400-1595

Apply to be a 2013 National Jamboree adult leader

2011-06-03T17:12:00.000-07:00

With the 2013 National Scout Jamboree just over two years away, we are pleased to announce that applications are now open for individuals interested in serving as Scoutmasters and Assistant Scoutmasters for our Council's contingent. Please review the application for further information and return the bottom portion to the Council office.

Interviews will be held Monday, June 20, 2011 and Wednesday, June 22, 2011 at the Council office. Update: Additional interviews will be held Monday, September 19, 2011 and Monday, September 26, 2011.

The Jamboree will be held at its new site, The Summit Bechtel Reserve in West Virginia, and will include action sports such as whitewater rafting, rock climbing, boarding, biking, target sports, zip lines, challenge courses, hiking, and more! Be part of a new and exciting experience. Go Big. Get Wild.

Promo video

Regards,
Eric Miele
2013 National Scout Jamboree
Council Contingent Coordinator
Eric.Miele@gmail.com

Registration is now open for youth, adult leaders, and staff.

Adventurers Wanted!

Get ready! The 2013 National Scout Jamboree is coming and it ain't your father's jamboree. We're talking seriously high adventure, people! Whitewater rafting, zip-lining, rappelling, mountain biking, hiking, and more - with 50,000 of your closest friends at the brand new Summit Bechtel Reserve in the wilds of West Virginia.

Check out the key dates below and start planning now to be a part of history at the very first jamboree at The Summit.

The Jamboree: July 15-24, 2013

BSA joins with NCMEC to teach Scouts Internet safety

2011-06-01T21:58:00.000-07:00

Boy Scouts Of America Joins With the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children to Teach Scouts Internet Safety

Free Online Educational Resource, NetSmartz®, Made Available to Scout Leaders

ALEXANDRIA, VA - June 1, 2011 - The National Center for Missing and Exploited Children® (NCMEC) today announced it is making available its Internet safety program, NetSmartz®, to the Boy Scouts of America (BSA) to teach Scouts and their families how to make responsible decisions both online and in real life. The BSA is asking all Scout leaders to incorporate the NetSmartz materials into their programs and to distribute information directly to parents.

While the Internet provides vast educational and informational resources, it has also given predators a new opportunity to prey on children - even in their own homes. Talking to children so they understand the dangers is vital to their safety. Prevention is key. NCMEC offers a free Internet safety program called NetSmartz at www.netsmartz.org. It uses interactive resources such as animated characters, games, and videos to empower children of all ages to make responsible decisions both online and in real life.

"Today children have more access to the Internet than ever before in history," said Ernie Allen, president and CEO of NCMEC. "The majority of all households today have at least one computer, and we know that most teens access the Internet from multiple locations. Kids already know that the Internet is a wonderful resource. They also need to understand the potential risks and the simple things that they can do that will help them stay safe. We applaud the BSA for making this resource available to members and its focus on adapting to the evolving dangers facing children today."

With a click of the mouse, parents can also get answers to their questions at www.netsmartz411.org about the Internet, computers, and emerging technology. Among the most frequently asked: What is a mash-up? How do I find my child's MySpace URL? What do online abbreviations mean? Not only can they review answers already provided, but they can call 1-888-NETS411 and talk to an expert.

Original article

June 9, 2011 - Kids' Family History Camp

2011-05-31T10:03:00.000-07:00

Kids' Family History Camp
For kids ages 8 to 16

Thursday, June 9, 2011
3:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.

Burbank Airport Marriott Hotel
2500 Hollywood Way, Burbank

in conjunction with the 42nd Annual Genealogy Jamboree
Southern California Genealogical Society

For more information contact Charlotte: (818) 843-7247 or SCGSKids@gmail.com

Attention Boy Scouts: Earn your Genealogy Merit Badge!

Boy Scout Merit Badge counselors will be present at Kids' Family History Camp

Prerequisites and online registration

June 11, 2011 - Boy Scout / Cub Scout night at the LA Galaxy Arena

2011-05-27T21:57:00.000-07:00

June 11th
3:00 - 6:30 Scout activities
7:30 Game starts

Home Depot Center in Carson

Prices:
$17 general admission
$26 endline
$36 sideline

Contact Rachel Valadez at (310) 630-2154 or ravaladez@lagalaxy.com

Soccer belt loop and soccer sport pin requirements can be completed, and also some requirements for the fitness belt loop can be accomplished.

Boeing presentations on rocket history

2011-05-20T21:00:00.000-07:00

I am a retired aerospace engineer. I have been hired by the Boeing Company to assist in providing a speaking program for interested organizations that describes the early and recent accomplishments in space propulsion made at the Rocketdyne Santa Susana Field Laboratory (test facility) in the Santa Susana mountains (that is now closed) and also reports the extensive effort that has been made to remove all chemical and radiological contamination created by the facilities and test activities there.

There is no charge for this presentation. We can provide either a half-hour presentation that is devoted to the history of rocket engines used for defense or space programs or a one-hour presentation that also includes the description of the type of contamination of concern at the facility and how it has been removed. Many people are unaware of this site or the work that was performed there that contributed to America's progress in space.

The presentations include photographs of the rocket engines and the test facilities. I was hired to make the engine presentations because I worked at that facility starting in 1953 and have been in the engineering development units on many of the engines built by Rocketdyne (at Canoga Park). The information on the clean-up work would be provided by a member of the Boeing Environmental Health and Safety Department. There have been significant achievements in preserving endangered animal and plant species in this large 2,850 acre facility.

Although the presentation on the rocket development would be of interest to all young people, we would also like to have meetings in which the parents and grown-up friends could attend as well to inform them of the issues involved. For example, they might like to know more of the facts about the true extent of contamination reported in the newspaper and their opportunities to convert the facility to a park and National Historical Site if the public chose to support that. Boeing offers Saturday bus tours of the facility which are enjoyable. These would be explained and offered.

This request currently has no time limit. Even if there are no current openings available at this time, that is, the meetings are already booked for the near-term, I would like to stay in touch with any Boy Scout units that might have openings in the future.

If you would like to follow up on this offer, please call or email me with a point of contact. I have to provide Boeing with information on my point of contact so that I can gather additional necessary information on the location of the facility where the presentation will be made, the official in charge, possible audio/visual equipment, etc.

During each presentation, we would extend an offer to anyone in the audience to participate in the free 3-hour bus tours on Saturdays. The tour stops at some of the historic test sites, and visitors can see the equipment and results of the clean-up that is restoring the land and vegetation to its original form. The morning tours leave at 9:00 am; the afternoon tours leave at 1:00 pm. You have to arrive a little early. You board the bus at the test facility at the top of the Santa Susana mountains. The facility is at the top of Woolsey Canyon Road, just off Valley Circle. There may only be one tour on the scheduled day, but currently two are planned for each Saturday.

The currently scheduled tour days (but more may be added) are:

June 11
July 16
October 8
November 12

In advance of that, if anyone is interested they can call (818) 466-8163 to request a reservation on one of the tours. The number goes to a voice mail where you can leave your message. Please provide this information:

Your name and your friend's or family member names, if someone is coming with you.
Your phone number where they can call back to confirm your reservation (I suggest you give a desk phone, and home phone, and cell phone)
Your preferred tour time (morning or afternoon) If either will work, state that. If only one time is possible for you, state that.
Your email address.
Tell them you are a US citizen (not kidding).

Thanks,

Bill Vietinghoff
willvee@verizon.net
(805) 495-7865 home
(805) 358-7762 cell

June 4, 2011 - 3rd Annual Shotgun Tournament

2011-05-18T21:04:00.000-07:00

Youth and adult competition
June 4th, 9 am - 1 pm

New and experienced shooters
Continental breakfast
50 rounds and skeet
Victory lunch and gun rental included at Triple B's Shotgun Sportspark

Adults $250
Youth $125

Location:
Triple B Clays
831 N. Rosemead Blvd.
South El Monte, CA 91733

For reservations or information, contact
Joseph Strother
Joseph.Strother@Scouting.org
(818)933-0104

May 22, 2011 - Troop 99 pancake breakfast and car wash

2011-05-16T21:55:00.000-07:00

Boy Scout Troop 99
Pancake Breakfast and Car Wash

Sunday, May 22, 2011
9 am - 1 pm

Location:
Elks Lodge
20925 Osborne St.
Canoga Park

Sponsored by the Elks Lodge #2190 of Canoga Park

Pancake breakfast:
$5 adults
$3 kids 10 and under

Car wash:
$10 cars
$15 SUVs, vans, trucks
$30 RVs

June 1, 2011 - Aviation Explorer Post 787 orientation meeting

2011-05-13T23:31:00.000-07:00

We are pleased to announce the formation of a new Aviation Explorer Post in the Antelope Valley! Aviation Explorer Post 787 will hold its orientation meeting at Fox Field (Lancaster, Ave. G and 50th St. West, in the terminal building) on Wednesday, June 1 at 6 pm.

If you are a young adult, 14-20, and are interested in any aspect of aviation, this Explorer Post is for you.

Learn about the different facets of aviation
Participate in flight training and ground training
Meet and learn from test pilots, military pilots, civil aviators, air traffic controllers, aviation engineers and technicians

Cost to join is $10.00. No one will be turned away due to inability to pay.

Parents are encouraged to attend this first meeting!

Please RSVP by May 31 to let us know you'll be attending.

Brenda Bradford
Learning for Life Director
16525 Sherman Way, C-8
Van Nuys, CA 91406
(818) 933-0121 (phone)
(818) 901-4890 (fax)

May 21, 2011 - Boy Scout Soccer Night

2011-05-11T23:06:00.000-07:00

Chivas USA (Facebook · Twitter) vs. Los Angeles Galaxy
May 21, 2011 at 7 pm
Home Depot Center, Carson

We are fundraising by selling tickets. We are inviting all Scouts, friends, families and soccer fans from all districts to join us on this fun and exciting night.

General Admission tickets are $14 (regular price $15)
Sideline tickets are $20 (regular price $24)

Wear your Boy Scout jersey or uniform to participate in the pre-game Chivas Champions Club Parade!

Any questions, please contact me.

Liz Hernandez
Soccer and Scouting
16525 Sherman Way, C-8
Van Nuys, CA 91402
(818) 933-1028
lhernandez@bsa-la.org

May 14, 2011 - UCLA Baseball Scout Day

2011-05-04T21:15:00.000-07:00

UCLA Baseball would like to invite you to our annual Scout Day on Saturday, May 14 when UCLA takes on Cal State Bakersfield at 2 pm. All Scouts in uniform will receive free admission.

Prices and directions

Please send me the names of any high schoolers who will be in attendance, per NCAA regulations.

Thanks, and Go Bruins!

Bailey West
Marketing Coordinator, Baseball and Community Outreach
UCLA Athletics
bwest@athletics.ucla.edu
(310) 206-5990

Scouting family loses home to fire

2011-05-03T22:18:00.000-07:00

During spring break, the Harwig family, a Scouting family from Pack 320 with a Wolf and a Webelos, lost their home to fire. The Pack held a fundraiser for them recently. In addition, the family is also active and involved with Woodland Hills Elementary School, and the school recently sent out the following message:

If you are able to donate either a gift card to Target or cash, please place your donation in an envelope marked "Harwig Family Collection" and drop it in the school office.

Please note that donations of clothing, home-cooked meals, etc. are not requested or desired at this time.

Over the past 10 years, I have worked with two other Scout families who have lost everything to fire and I have seen how hard it can be. Yes, insurance helps, but not as much as you would think. One mom told me of how a fire restoration company (mandated by the insurance company) charged $7 to save a mason jar that she could have replaced for 50 cents - and that $7 came out of what she was supposed to have to rebuild their lives. Another family also saw a lot of their insurance money get eaten away by costs such as these.

So, here is a great opportunity for a Scouting Good Turn. I dropped off my own envelope for the family this afternoon, and the school is still taking donations - so, if you can, please donate.

Woodland Hills Elementary
22201 San Miguel St.
Woodland Hills, CA 91364
(just off of San Feliciano Drive, just west of Topanga and north of Ventura Blvd.)
(818) 347-9220

Also, you can bring donations to Roundtable next week, Wednesday May 11th, at the LDS Church on Deseret at 7:30.

Thank you for any support you can give.

Peg McGrew
Las Colinas District Chair

May 14-15, 2011 - Civil War reenactment (Scout discount)

2011-05-02T21:11:00.000-07:00

General information

We will offer a 50% discount for Scouts in uniform, and a 20% discount for all others accompanying them.

You can also order tickets online - same discounts, no service fees. Enter promotional code scout for Scouts, family for others. (Because of the different codes, you may have to purchase the two ticket types separately.)

Robert McBroom
Director, Pierce Farm Center

July 10-16, 2011 - Emerald Bay spots available

2011-04-29T21:32:00.000-07:00

Emerald Bay 2011
7/10/2011 - 7/16/2011
Spots available for 3 Scouts and 1 adult leader
Scout $524 - Adult leader $349

If you are interested in a very fun and wet summer camp, come join Troop 10 at BSA Emerald Bay summer camp.

Don't delay, this is the premier summer camp of WLACC so these spots will not be available for long.

We require full payment, current BSA medical form and permission slips.

Troop 10 meets on Monday nights at United Methodist Church of Reseda. We are on the corner of Saticoy and Lindley in the city of Reseda.

Bruce McDonald, Scoutmaster (818) 808-5351
Bernd Engelmann, Committee Chairman (818) 371-5825
Melanie Hammock, trip organizer Melaniehammock@aol.com

May and October 2011 - The Trainer's Edge

2011-04-28T22:28:00.000-07:00

The purpose of this course is to provide and help develop the platform skills of a trainer, presentation techniques and current BSA training practices and policies. The Trainer's Edge replaces the Trainer Development Conference (BSA 500) as the required train-the-trainer course for Wood Badge, NYLT, unit, district and council trainers. This is a one-day course that will include lunch and materials. Class size is limited to the first 32 registered and paid participants per session.

Pre-course preparation: Please prepare a 10 to 12 minute presentation on a topic of your choice from any BSA material. Your presentation should allow you to demonstrate the skills of a trainer. You will receive constructive feedback on your presentation from the other participants.

When:
Saturday, May 21, 2011
Sunday, May 22, 2011
Saturday, October 22, 2011
Sunday, October 23, 2011
(Please pick which day is the best for your schedule!)

Time: 8:00 am to 5:00 pm

Where:
Council Service Center
16525 Sherman Way, Unit C-8
Van Nuys, CA 91406

Cost: $15.00 per person for lunch and materials

To reserve your spot, or if you have questions, contact
Hamlet Shirvani at (818) 785-8700
or
Arthur Pinkers at (661) 263-3896 (evenings) or e-mail arthurtscout@socal.rr.com

Registration form

I look forward to seeing you all there.

In Scouting,

Arthur Pinkers
WLACC Council Leadership Training Chair
arthurtscout@socal.rr.com
(661) 263-3896

May 1 - Prader-Willi California Foundation walkathon

2011-04-28T19:18:00.000-07:00

Prader-Willi California Foundation, a non-profit charitable organization, is holding our annual Walkathon to raise awareness of Prader-Willi syndrome, a rare medical disorder this Sunday, May 1. The event is being held at Woodley Park located at 6100 Woodley Avenue, Van Nuys, CA 91406.

We need 7 to 8 Boy Scouts to help us set up the signs along the walk path, help distribute waters, help with the Kids Play Area (help the kids with arts and crafts, beading, coloring, sand art, etc. activities), and help with the relay game races.

We'd love for help to arrive at about 8:30 a.m.

We will serve a healthy Subway sandwich and fruit lunch to all, and will distribute Community Service Certificates to Scouts who'd like one.

The event concludes at about 2:00 p.m.

The day is a really fun one, and the Boy Scouts would have the opportunity to learn about and help a special group of people with a very rare disability.

Do you have any Boy Scouts who are able to help us?

Please feel free to give me a call with any questions you may have about Prader-Willi California Foundation and this event. I look forward to hearing from you at your earliest convenience!

Warmest regards,

Lisa A. Graziano, M.A.
Executive Director
Prader-Willi California Foundation
An Affiliate of Prader-Willi Syndrome Association (USA)
514 N. Prospect Avenue
Suite 110 - Lower Level
Redondo Beach, CA 90277
(310) 372-5053
(310) 372-4329 fax
E-mail · Web · Facebook

May 6-8, 2011 - Desert merit badges and shotgun shooting

2011-04-28T19:01:00.000-07:00

To all Boy Scouts and their leaders:

PSC - NRA - QU - CDFG - Desert Event

Your hosts:
Mark Cohen, NRA, Panorama Sportsmans' Club
Bruce Kenyon, Quail Unlimited, California Department of Fish and Game

Dates: May 6, 7, 8

Place: Camp Cady Wildlife Area - Mojave Desert - San Bernardino County

Accommodations: RV spaces with full hook ups (9), RV spaces without hookups, tent area with room for unlimited number off tents. Picnic area, fire pit. Bunkhouse with full kitchen, bathrooms, shower, and limited bedroom availability.

Schedule:

Friday: Arrival anytime after 3:30 pm

Saturday: Your choice of California Hunters safety course open to all adults and kids (prerequisite to getting a valid California hunting license) or work on Wildlife Habitat (environment) merit badge. Also available will be Astronomy merit badge counseling in the evening (the night sky in the Mojave desert is unbelievable).

Sunday: Morning tour of the entire Camp Cady compound and some shotgun range time too.

Fees: $25.00 per person. This includes all activity fees (even the Hunter Safety class), and a very special Saturday night dinner prepared by your hosts.

The Hunter safety class is limited to the first 25, so reserve your space now.

RSVP to mfcohen@sbcglobal.net as soon as you can.

Thank you and see you there.

Mark Cohen

April camping newsletter

2011-04-27T08:35:00.000-07:00

Emerald Bay Goes Green

This summer, Emerald Bay will launch the Energy Merit Badge to teach Scouts about energy conservation and alternative energy sources. The launch of this merit badge is another in a series of steps Emerald Bay has taken in recent years to become more environmentally sensitive. These include implementing water-saving strategies that have cut over a million gallons in yearly usage and taken our per-person water usage from 65 gallons per person per day in 2006 to 35 in 2010! We also completed the Emerald Bay Eco Classroom with the help of the Gensler architectural firm. The Eco Classroom has won several awards for its sustainable and innovative design. Learn more about Emerald Bay's commitment to the environment.

Whitsett, Emerald Bay, and Lands' End

Camp Whitsett and Camp Emerald Bay are excited to announce that we have partnered with Lands' End to offer an online store to all friends of camp. Troops can preorder their troop t-shirt, customized with troop number, to be picked up at camp or delivered to your home, in addition to all sorts of cool Whitsett and Emerald Bay gear. Best of all, everything ordered from the new store is Guaranteed. Period. ® Call (800) 995-8711 or visit www.campwhitsett.org/store or www.campemeraldbay.org/store to learn more.

Whitsett CPT Program

One of the highlights of Camp Whitsett is the CPT program, a leadership development program using high adventure activities as a catalyst for development. CPT is a week-long adventure which includes backpacking, mountain biking, rock climbing, and many other challenging outdoor elements. In CPT, emphasis is placed on group decision-making, teamwork, wilderness ethics, risk management, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills. Scouts who participate in the program emerge as stronger leaders in their troops and crews and come away with memories that last a lifetime. Learn more.

In memory: Tom Marrs, 1932 - 2011

2011-04-20T20:56:00.000-07:00

Tom (second from left)
with some of the original HAT members

Tom Marrs, member of the Verdugo Hills Council High Adventure Team and past WLACC HAT leader, passed away. He was a long-time member since the seventies and served the Boy Scout and HAT team for over 40 years. He will be greatly missed.

Thanks for keeping the "outing" in Scouting and teaching us the proper way to backpack during spring, summer, fall and winter.

David Seifert

Los Angeles Times obituary

There will be no funeral or memorial service, as per Tom's wishes.

Camporee message from Paul Oliver

2011-04-18T19:34:00.000-07:00

To all attending Camporee,

As you all know, we had quite an unusual Camporee this year. The wind roared and came through camp like a locomotive, but that wasn't the problem. Most all Units left Saturday evening at our urging. The people who run the park double-booked us with another event. We were told this at the 11th hour, and they assured us the running event would not impact or affect our Camporee.

As you saw, we had about 400 runners going right through the center of our campground. As much of an inconvenience as that was, we dealt with it and went through our evening and campfires. Those runners were a nuisance, but the 3,000 to 4,000 runners that would be coming through Sunday morning would be a large logistical problem. Based on the information we received that night, we urged all units to leave Saturday evening after campfire or by 7:00 am Sunday morning. Having 600 campers leaving on Sunday morning along with a wall of runners bisecting our camp and moving up the road convinced us to make that decision. The number one concern of the Camporee committee was the safety of our Scouts and parents.

There have been rumors and gossip flying around that we were forced to leave by different authorities. They are just that - rumors and gossip. I was in the center of all that went on, and we were at no time pressured to leave by anyone. That is not rumor or gossip - it's straight from the horse's mouth.

I must say I am extremely proud of all our leaders and Scouts. All unit leaders were informed and moved their Scouts and parents calmly, orderly and with great efficiency. When we left Sunday morning after everyone was gone, we swept the area and proudly found no trash. No one would even have known we were there. Everyone practiced "Leave no Trace"! I would like to recognize a unit who went over and above and demonstrated great Scout spirit. After Pack 441 had packed up all their campsite, instead of leaving, several Cub Scouts and leaders came over to Snackoree and packed it up and loaded it into vehicles through the howling wind. Thank you, Pack 441!

The park director was informed of what happened, along with Castaic City Council members. We will be meeting with them and park officials to go over all the events and what can be done about it. We will keep you informed. We apologize for all the confusion and difficulties, but these were circumstances out of our control. I would like to thank all unit leaders, parents and Camporee staff for all the time, energy and effort you have given to your Scouts this Camporee weekend. Please forward this to all in your packs or troops who went to Camporee.

Paul Oliver
Chairman
Balboa Oaks District

May 7, 2011 - Troop 18 merit badge midway

2011-04-08T21:15:00.000-07:00

Boy Scout Troop 18
Cahuenga District

Spring 2010 Merit Badge Midway Extravaganza

Saturday, May 7th
9:00 am - 4:00 pm

First United Methodist Church
4832 Tujunga Avenue
North Hollywood, CA 91601

For information:
Clint Hutchison
(818) 994-7424
clintonhutchison@gmail.com

Cost: $5 per Scout, payable at the event

Welcome to Boy Scout Troop 18 Merit Badge Midway. In the packet, you will find everything you need to know about our midway.

If you have questions about a specific merit badge, please contact the merit badge counselor prior to the event. Some of the merit badges offered will be started at the midway and completed with the counselors after the requirements have been completed. Other merit badges are designed to be completed at the midway.

Remember that you must have your Scoutmaster approve any badge you intend to work on. Each Scout is expected to provide:

Signed merit badge cards
Updated merit badge books
Writing materials

Scouts will be expected to arrive in uniform and have their (blue) merit badge cards signed by their Scout leaders.

For your convenience, Troop 18 will be providing a food concessions booth for you to purchase drinks, lunch, snacks, and various food items.

Thank you for joining us in our midway efforts. We hope you will enjoy yourself, and take full advantage of the opportunities provided for you.

Cost of the event is $5.00, payable at the door. We will accept cash and checks. Please make checks payable to BSA Troop 18.

Please arrive early to register, as many merit badges will begin promptly at 9:00 am. Registration will begin at 8:30 am.

Please note the time that each merit badge is being offered.

Packet with schedule, counselor roster, prerequisites, and directions

May 2, 2011 - Troop 431 Webelos Open House

2011-04-08T21:13:00.000-07:00

Come see all the great things about Troop 431 and have some root bear floats at our Webelos Open House!

When: Monday, May 2nd at 7pm

Where: St. Bridget's of Sweden - 7100 Whitaker Ave, Van Nuys, CA 91406

Our Webelos Open House is designed for Webelos on the verge of joining Boy Scouts and their parents.

Come get to know our Troop and our Scouts. We will show you all the fun things that Scouting has to offer, and what's so great about Troop 431.

Scouts will enjoy root beer floats as they get to know Troop 431 and the Boy Scout program.

Questions? Please contact
Ponch Corona, Scoutmaster
(818) 681-7430
ponch1006@aol.com

April 2011 - Vernon Taylor III's Eagle project

2011-04-08T21:08:00.000-07:00

Calling on all Scouts

Volunteers needed

Food drive benefiting the Food Pantry program

Volunteer opportunities and credit available!

April 14, 16, and 23, 2011

Volunteers needed to

prepare collection bags
staff donation collection stations
assist in door-to-door distribution of flyers and collection of donations
sort donations once collected

Donation collection stations:

Please contact Vernon Taylor III (323) 375-8496 or VTeck3@aol.com

May 10, 2011 - Eagle Scout recognition dinner

2011-04-01T17:58:00.000-07:00

To everyone in our council, make your plans to attend the upcoming Eagle Scout Recognition Dinner. This night honors all the Scouts who have achieved the rank of Eagle Scout this past year.

Each year we have an outstanding speaker, and this year is no different. Dennis McCarthy, the columnist from the Daily News, will fascinate you with his wit, knowledge and passion for the Scouting program.

This is not an evening to be missed - for Scouts and adults. If your son attained Eagle Scout, his attendance is free. We are also looking for sponsors for all these Eagle Scouts.

Aviation volunteers needed

2011-04-01T17:41:00.000-07:00

The Exploring Division of WLACC is excited to announce the commitment from American Airports, managers of Fox Field, to sponsor an Aviation Explorer Post. We need adult volunteers in order to make this happen.

We will be holding an adult volunteer informational meeting on Wednesday, April 13, 2011 at 7:00 PM. The meeting will be held in the lobby of the Fox Field terminal, 4555 West Avenue G, Lancaster, CA 93536. We would be pleased to have you attend to find out how you can be involved in this great opportunity. Please RSVP by Monday, April 11 to brenda.bradford@lflmail.org

If you know any adults interested in aviation and mentoring teens, please pass this message along to them.

If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to call Brenda Bradford at (818) 933-0121 or email her at brenda.bradford@lflmail.org.

Brenda Bradford
Director, Learning for Life
16525 Sherman Way, C-8
Van Nuys, CA 91406
(818) 933-0121
(818) 901-4890 fax

Camping news from Emerald Bay and Whitsett

2011-03-31T16:22:00.000-07:00

July 7-10: Whitsett Webelos Rendezvous

Camp Whitsett invites Webelos to join them in July for the first Whitsett Webelos Rendezvous. Webelos will have the opportunity to learn Western skills like throwing a tomahawk, archery and BB gun shooting, using a bullwhip, candle making, and more. At night, campers will cook in Dutch ovens before turning in for a night of frontier camping. To learn more about this exciting event, or to register now, visit www.campwhitsett.org.

Emerald Bay and Lands' End

Camp Emerald Bay is excited to announce that we have partnered with Lands’ End to offer an online store to all friends of camp. Troops can preorder their troop T-shirt, customized with troop number, to be picked up at camp or delivered to your home in addition to all sorts of cool Emerald Bay gear. Best of all, everything ordered from the new store is Guaranteed. Period. ® Call (800) 995-8711 or visit www.campemeraldbay.org/store to learn more.

Whitsett First Year Pathfinders

The Pathfinder program is one of the highlights of the Camp Whitsett program. Designed for those new to Scouting, a veteran Whitsett staff member becomes patrol leader for the week and leads the Scouts through many of the Tenderfoot, Second, and First Class requirements. Scouts bond as a patrol and learn skills that will last a lifetime. To learn more, visit www.campwhitsett.org.

Year-Round at Emerald Bay

Not many people know that Emerald Bay has a thriving spring and fall camping program. During the week, the camp is home to an outdoor education program for students in elementary, middle, and high school. On the weekends, the camp is home to everything from Cub Scout camps to YMCA adventure guides to weddings to church retreats. The camp staff works with each of these groups to make the experience unique, from providing scuba training, to conducting classes on marine science in the Pennington Center, to transforming the dining hall into a dance hall. If you have a group that you are interested in bringing to camp, visit www.campemeraldbay.org or call us at (818) 933-0131.

Nominations for 2011 Adult Shofar Award

2011-03-29T19:29:00.000-07:00

It is that time of year again when the West Los Angeles County Council Jewish Committee on Scouting is seeking nominations for those exceptional Scouters who have contributed greatly over several years to serve Jewish youth in Scouting. This award is only awarded to a few each year and is a great honor. Therefore, please help us find the "best of the best" to honor for 2011. We need your help, as you know that often these amazing people are in the background, helping but hidden.

Deadline: Nominations must be received no later than April 22nd, 2011.

The Award

The National Jewish Committee on Scouting established the Shofar Award to recognize outstanding service by adults in the promotion of Scouting among Jewish youth. Just as the Shofar (Ram's Horn) calls people to the service of God, so the Shofar Award is recognition of the individual who has answered the call to serve Jewish youth in Scouting. Self and spouse nominations will not be accepted.

Eligibility Guidelines

A Shofar recipient should:

Promote the use of Scouting in synagogues, Jewish community centers, and other Jewish institutions.
Encourage Jewish youth to join the Boy Scouts of America as Cub Scouts, Boy Scouts, Venturers, Varsity Scouts, and Explorers.
Recruit Jewish leaders on unit, district, and council levels.
Encourage and assist Scouts in earning the Maccabee, Aleph, and Ner Tamid emblems.
Promote religious observance on camping trips and at camporees, summer camp, Scout Sabbath, and other functions.
Exemplify religious convictions by personal participation in the ideals of Jewish life.

The recipient may or may not be Jewish. Jewish recipients have come from all denominations.

Your local Jewish Committee on Scouting is now calling for nominations. Your nomination should include a listing of Scouting positions held, tenure in each position, awards previously earned, community contributions, and a statement by you outlining why this person is deserving of the award. Only a few honorees are selected each year from the many who serve.

Please mail or e-mail your nominations to:

Sanford Weinberg
625 North Sycamore Street, #317
Los Angeles, CA 90036
sanford@techtalk.net

Nominations must be received by April 22nd, 2011. A committee of past award recipients will meet shortly thereafter to determine this year's Shofar Award recipients.

YIJS,
Sanford Weinberg
2011 WLACC Shofar Committee Chairman

April 16, 2011 - Youth Day at the Range

2011-03-28T23:09:00.000-07:00

Panorama Sportsman's Club / NRA / BSA Youth Day at the Range

Our next event will be held on Saturday, April 16th, 2011.

Space is limited for all BSA Youth Shooting Days. Please make your reservations now.

Panorama Sportsman's Club with the NRA is pleased to again offer a shooting sports program for Boy Scout troops and their leaders.

The cost for the event will be $25, and will include:

Your day will start at 9 am with a mandatory firearms safety class taught by NRA certified range safety officers.
One-on-one instruction in riflery by certified NRA instructors.
One-on-one instruction in shotgun by certified NRA instructors.
Merit badge training, counseling, and qualifying is available.

All firearms and ammunition will be supplied for both .22 caliber rifle and shotguns. A meal for lunch will be included as well, including main course, drink, and dessert, in addition to liquid refreshments.

You may also inquire about making it an overnight activity, as the facility has camping areas available for use too.

Contact Mark Cohen, the youth coordinator for Panorama Sportsman's Club, at mfcohen@sbcglobal.net

Panorama Sportsman’s Club is located in Lopez Canyon, Sylmar, close to where the 118 and 210 freeways meet. Exact directions will be provided when reservations are made.

May 2011 - Boy Scout Adult Leadership Training

2011-03-24T07:50:00.001-07:00

Bill Hart District
Boy Scout
Adult Leadership Training
Spring Training 2011

Boy Scout Leadership Training is the first level of training for adult leaders in the Boy Scout organization. This course is in 2 parts with an online prerequisite. The online prerequisites that are needed are

This is Scouting
Youth Protection

If you have done this, you must make sure your Youth Protection card is valid (good for 2 years), otherwise you can renew it online. Both parts are required and a current Youth Protection Card is required for Leader Certification.You must attend all day in each session to be registered at council as a "trained leader".

Who should attend:
Adults seeking to participate in any way with a Boy Scout troop.

What to bring:

Boy Scout Handbook, Scoutmaster Handbook and/or Troop Committee Handbook.
Wear a Scout uniform for the indoor session and comfortable camping clothing for the outdoor session.

When:

Session 1: Saturday, May 7, 2011, 9 am to 4 pm
Session 2: Friday, May 20, 2011, 7 pm to 11 pm / Saturday, May 21, 2011, 7 am to 4 pm

Where:

Session 1: The Church of Jesus Christ of Later-Day Saints, 27405 Bouquet Canyon Rd. (and Centurion), Saugus
Session 2: TBA at Session 1.

Questions:

Session 1 - Kimberly Young (661) 263-9197 or kippyone3@yahoo.com
Session 2 - Glen Backley (661) 714-6901 or gbackley@socal.rr.com

Additional notes:

Session 1 - Lunch will be provided.
Session 2 - Cracker barrel, breakfast, lunch will be provided.

Cost:

$45 if you send in a registration form by April 30
$50 afterward

Registration form

April 23, 2011 - Cub Leader Basic Training

2011-03-24T07:50:00.000-07:00

Bill Hart District
Cub Scout Leader Basic Training
New Leader Essentials and Youth Protection

April 23, 2011

Who needs this training:

Cubmasters
Assistant Cubmasters
Pack committee members
Tiger, Wolf, Bear and Webelos Den Leaders and assistant leaders

Where is the training:
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints
27405 Bouquet Canyon (and Centurion), Saugus

Time: 1 pm to 4:30 pm

Why do you need the training:

To learn about the objectives of Scouting.
To develop the knowledge and skills needed to be a successful leader.

What to bring:

Den Leaders bring your Tiger, Wolf, Bear or Webelos Book.
Cub Masters and Committee Members bring the Cub Leader Handbook.
Wear your Scout Uniform if you have it.

Snacks will be provided.

Please register by April 16 so that training materials and food can be provided to you.

Registration form

Cost:

$10 if you send in a registration form by April 16
$15 at the door

Any questions, please call (661) 263-9197 or kippyone3@yahoo.com

May 7, 2011 - Merit Badge Day at the International Printing Museum

2011-03-10T22:45:00.000-08:00

Merit Badge Day at the International Printing Museum
Saturday, May 7th, 9 am - 4 pm
(Scouts need to sign in by 8:30 am - activities will start promptly at 9 am)

Earn two merit badges in one day:

Graphic Arts
Pulp and Paper

Create a special Mother's Day Card as part of the day's activities!

Partnering with major companies from the printing and paper industries, the Printing Museum has structured this special day for Scouts to earn two merit badges and go home with fantastic keepsakes and a t-shirt! This will be an exciting day filled with engaging activities for the Scouts, exploring the very creative and diverse world of printing, paper and the graphic arts. The International Printing Museum in Carson is a world-famous facility with a working collection spanning hundreds of years.

The day includes:

Graphic Arts

Working tour of the Printing Museum
Litho printing on a modern small offset press
Relief and letterpress printing
Digital printing and design
Screen print a T-shirt that you bring

Pulp and Paper

Explore the history of paper and papyrus
See how paper is made today
Make your own paper by hand
Understand how paper is used today

Free Admission!
The day is limited to 120 pre-registered Scouts.
RSVP by May 1st, 2011
(310) 515-7166
E-mail / Web / Facebook
315 Torrance Boulevard, Carson, CA 90745

National Eagle Scout Association news

2011-03-10T22:41:00.000-08:00

Join NESA Soon

The national NESA Committee has voted to increase NESA membership fees effective July 1, 2011. This is the first increase in nearly 20 years. The current fees are only $25 for a five-year membership and $180 for life membership. Beginning July 1, the fees will increase to $35 for a five-year membership and $250 for life membership. Now is the perfect time to receive the great value of NESA membership.

The National Eagle Scout Association (NESA) is a home for all Eagle Scouts. We publish an acclaimed full-color quarterly magazine, Eagle Scout Magazine, award $400,000 in college scholarships to Eagle Scouts, publish books about Eagle Scouts, and provide a number of interesting online services; including a permanent NESA.org e-mail address.

Eagle Scout Cards at www.NESA.org

NESA has a goal of re-engaging all living Eagle Scouts and reconnecting with each. Please help us accomplish this by downloading and printing the reconnection cards on our home page at www.nesa.org. Carry them and share one when you come in contact with a fellow Eagle Scout. Also, consider mailing them to your Eagle Scout friends and relatives. 2012 is the 100th anniversary of the first Eagle Scout Award being earned. NESA will publish a book about Eagle Scouts with the theme of "Where are they now?" Everyone will want to be part of the centennial celebration.

Alumni Award

The Alumni Award, approved in March 2011, may be earned by all Scouting alumni. The BSA has a wide range of alumni: former Scouts, former and current volunteer leaders, family members of former and current Scouts, and key constituents who support Scouting in their community.

The requirements for the Alumni Award are available at www.BSAalumni.org. The recognition items for those who complete the requirements will be: a square knot if you have a uniform and/or a distinctive lapel pin.

Alumni Scrapbook

Registered BSA alumni (it’s free and easy at www.BSAalumni.org) can post their Scouting stories in the BSA Alumni Scrapbook. We welcome you to post one per each year of your involvement. And after you have registered as a BSA alumni, download the free cell phone ring tones of 10 different bugle calls!

Participate in a Survey of Eagle Scouts

Professor Nicholas Evan Sarantakes (Eagle Scout, 1983) of the U.S. Naval War College is authoring a history of the Eagle Scout Award. He is currently asking holders of this award to complete a questionnaire about their experiences in Scouting. He will use these replies in the content of his book, and then will deposit the completed forms at the National Scouting Museum. If you are interested in assisting him document the history of Scouting in his publication, please contact him at: Nick.Sarantakes@usnwc.edu, or via hard-copy mail at: Department of Strategy and Policy, U.S. Naval War College, 686 Cushing Rd., Newport, RI 02841

2012: The 100th Anniversary of the First Eagle Scout Award

NESA President Glenn Adams has appointed a task force to plan the 100th anniversary of the first Eagle Scout Award next year. We will keep you advised as participation opportunities are developed.

March 12, 2011 - Las Colinas District Training

2011-02-21T08:36:00.000-08:00

Las Colinas District Training

Saturday, March 12th, 2011
8:00 am - 5:00 pm
at Pinecrest School, Woodland Hills
5975 Shoup Ave, Woodland Hills, CA 91367
(Corner of Shoup Ave. and Oxnard St.)

Who should attend: Scout Leaders, Troop/Pack Committee Members, Cub Scout Leaders, Venture Crew Leaders, Sea Scout Leaders

Courses offered:

This is Scouting (8:00 am - 11:30 am)
Cub Leader Specific (1:00 pm - 4:30 pm)
Scoutmaster and Assistant Scoutmaster Specific (1:00 pm - 5:00 pm)
Troop Committee Challenge (8:00 am - 11:30 am)
Venture Leader Specific (Sea Scout Leaders) (1:00 pm - 5:00 pm)

Cost: $5.00 donation per course

Wear your Class A uniform if you have one - come anyway if you don't.

Please pre-register no later than Wednesday, March, 2011.
If not, register at the training.

Questions: John Overton at john.overton@pwr.utc.com or (818) 620-1001

Registration form

February 28, 2011 - Youth Protection and Merit Badge Orientation

2011-02-20T19:03:00.000-08:00

Youth Protection
Merit Badge Orientation

Lincoln Middle School (cafeteria)
1501 California Street
Santa Monica

Monday, February 28, 2011
7 - 8 pm

Youth Protection is required for all parents/adults (18 and over) who have or are likely to have any contact with the scouts. This includes Boy Scouts, Cub Scouts, Venture Crew Advisors, Varsity Team Coaches, etc. Training is available on-line but this is an opportunity to obtain the training and ask any and all questions about the subject. Insurance coverage and liability may be impacted by whether or not you have received this training.

Merit Badge Counselor Orientation is required for all potential Merit Badge Counselors. The training deals with the way the counseling is done, not the subject being counseled. All participants become registered with BSA at no cost.

Course is open to all Scouters in district or council.

RSVP appreciated but not required.

e-mail to Robert@ClincoLaw.com

March 5, 2011 - Aviation Merit Badge Day

2011-02-17T16:49:00.000-08:00

Aviation Merit Badge Day
Let Your Dreams Soar

Saturday, March 5th, 2011
8 am - 3 pm

Troop 67 in Santa Monica is hosting an Aviation Merit Badge Day at Justice Aviation at Santa Monica Airport. Sponsors include Youth Aviation Adventure, Friends of Santa Monica Airport, Justice Aviation, Kim Davidson Aviation, Santa Monica Aviation, FUMC of Santa Monica, and the City of Santa Monica.

Signup form and more information

Attendees will learn to:

Define "aircraft"
Point to a model airplane and describe the forces acting on it
Explain how an airfoil generates lift
Demonstrate how the control surfaces are used for maneuvering the aircraft
Explain recreational, private, and commercial licenses
Perform a pre-flight inspection
Learn about aeronautical charts
Build a FPG-9 glider
Understand how runways are numbered
Learn about Santa Monica Airport

This is a high quality program, taught by pilots using real airplanes and helicopters.

Space is very limited, so interested Scouts (and/or adults) need to act quickly.

Michael J. Kent
Assistant Scoutmaster, Troop 67 Outdoor Committee Chair
AOPA Member, Commercial Rated Single Engine Land and Hot Air Balloon Pilot
info@mikent.com

May 7, 2011 - Shotgun Shooting Merit Badge Day

2011-02-15T21:43:00.000-08:00

Santa Clarita Valley Chapter Quail and Upland Wildlife Federation (SCVQUWF)
Annual Shotgun Shooting Merit Badge Day

Sponsored by Troop 583, Castaic

Saturday, May 7, 2011
7:30 am (check-in) to 3:30 pm
@ The Oak Tree Gun Club in Newhall, CA

Cost $36 for 50 (max) birds and ammo

Scouts are required to complete the Shotgun Shooting merit badge requirement worksheet prior to class date. Necessary information may be found in the Shotgun Shooting merit badge handbook.

Reservation form

Deadline for reservations is Sunday, May 1, 2011. Space is limited to 50 Scouts - first come / first reserve basis.

Questions: Contact Luann Peterson (661) 296-4667 quwfmeritbadge@scvquwf.com

March 18-20, 2011 - Troop 431 Webelos Weekend

2011-02-14T20:23:00.000-08:00

Come see all the great things about Troop 431 at our Webelos Weekend Adventure!

Monkey Bridge
Marshmallow Wars
Scouting Clinics
Obstacle Courses
Campfire

Adventure includes accommodations and food.

When: March 18-20
Where: Castaic Lake, 32132 Castaic Lake Drive, Castaic, CA 91384

Cost:

Free for Webelos!
$10 for parents

What to bring:

Troop will provide tents for the Webelos. Parents to bring own tents.
Sleeping bag, clothing, and personal hygiene items. Troop will provide the rest.

Our Webelos Weekend is designed for Webelos on the verge of joining Boy Scouts and their parents.

Webelos must be accompanied by a parent or guardian for the entire event.

This weekend will:

Show all the fun things that Scouting has to offer.
Give an opportunity to meet other Boy Scouts and Scout parents.

Weekend details:

Friday: Meet and depart 5 pm, St. Bridget's Catholic Church, 7100 Whitaker Ave., Van Nuys, CA 91406
Saturday: Games and adventure all day.
Sunday: Rise and shine breakfast and head home.

For questions or to RSVP, please call Troop Scoutmaster Ponch Corona (818) 681-7430 or email ponch1006@aol.com

Merit badge midway thanks

2011-02-07T22:52:00.000-08:00

Dear MB Midway Counselors, Staff and Volunteers,

On behalf of the Balboa Oaks District Committee, I would like to take this opportunity to thank you for your efforts and the support you gave in making this last MB Midway one of the most successful and best run Midways we have had. Thank you for your willingness to volunteer your time and personal resources to this event. Thank you for taking time from your busy schedules to so thoroughly prepare your subject matter material. Thank you for the patience shown to the Scouts and their leaders and/or parents through the preregistration process and again on Saturday. Thank you to the terrific Snack-O-Ree staff, and in particular Julie and Sheila, who kept our cravings and appetites fed. And thank you for the kind patience and support you have shown to me throughout this entire event.

From what I could tell through the registration process and while visiting the classrooms, we were at near capacity. We had Scouts from throughout the Council, from the neighboring Councils and from as far away as Riverside attend this Midway. I will try to have a final tally for you in the coming days. To that end, I will send all instructors another email asking for additional information.

Many of you have heard directly from leaders and parents, thanking you for your good work. During the Midway, I took the opportunity to visit all of the classes and speak with every adult leader and/or parent that I passed in the hallways, in the foyers, and in the recreation hall. I received high praise for our work effort from 95% of those I came in contact with. The other 5% still gave us good marks and made some very positive suggestions as to how we might improve our next Midway event.

I hope you felt good about your participation in this Midway and that you feel that your time was well spent. I hope you will want to do it again down the road sometime. I believe we were able to help a lot of young men on Saturday learn something new, interesting, fun, and something of value; I believe we have done a Good Turn and have given good service. Thank you.

Sincerely,

Ralph Ward

I would like to also take a moment and express my great admiration and gratitude for all of you who took the time to make this event so great. I have heard nothing but praise for the way the event ran. I was amazed when I heard how many Scouts participated and how many merit badges were earned. It could not have happened without you. Also special thanks to Ralph Ward, Eric Miele and Michele Smith for leading and inspiring this great team. You all have made our Balboa Oaks District shine once again.

Paul Oliver

May to September 2011 - Los Padres Forest Association events

2011-02-07T16:44:00.001-08:00

Here are the LPFA (Los Padres Forest Association) Wheeler Gorge Visitor Center events for 2011.

Event descriptions are also available at the Antelope Valley District web site.

Gordie Hemphill
LPFA President and Scouter
(805) 382-9759
moblfltstore@earthlink.net

May 28, 2011 - Memorial Day flag placement

2011-02-04T21:43:00.000-08:00

Again this year the Scouts will be placing flags on the graves at the
Los Angeles National Cemetery in West Los Angeles
950 South Sepulveda Blvd.

Parking will be in the Veterans Administration Facilities through the tunnel on Constitution Avenue as it was last year.

We will start at 8:00 am, you must be there by 7:30 am in order to get signed in and receive your location map. Sign in starts at 7:00 am.

Rules of conduct are the same as last year.

Please share this with all of your Scouts.

We will be doing flag retrievals Tuesday, May 31st through Friday, June 3rd, from 2:30 pm till 5:00 pm each day.

February 26-27, 2011 - Troop 92 Webelos overnight

2011-01-28T08:29:00.000-08:00

Webelos overnight with Troop 92

Oak Park in Simi Valley
901 Quimisa, Simi Valley. Off Los Angeles Ave, west of Madera Road (805) 527-6886

Check-in at 10am on Saturday, February 26th
Check-out at 12 noon on Sunday, February 27th

Cost for the overnight for all food:
Webelos (1st and 2nd year) free
Adults (if eating with Troop leadership) $10
Siblings (if eating with Troop leadership) $7

Advanced reservations required
Call Troop 92 Scoutmaster (Norbert Soski) at (818) 360-5159 or e-mail at scoutmaster@troop92bsa.org

Webelos must be accompanied by a parent (or guardian) for the entire event. Staying overnight is not required.

Registration form

April 2-3, 2011 - Scout leader fishing trip

2011-01-27T10:55:00.000-08:00

Anybody out there wanna go fishing? Our events are always for the Scouts. Here is one for us adult leaders and our friends. We are having our 5th annual overnight fishing charter on Sunday April 3rd. We leave Saturday night April 2nd at 10pm. Once again we will be chartering the Pacific Islander, with plenty of bunks, out of Channel Islands Sportfishing. Pole rentals, all gear and fishing licenses are available at the dock.

This is an outstanding trip every single year. We go at the opening of the season and coupled with the fact we get to the outer island the fishing is great. Limits are the rule and not the exception on this trip. Cost is only $135 which is $10 less than their regular overnight trips. We will be taking only 22 with us, so there is a lot of room on the rail. The trip is open to Scouting leaders over 18 years whether you are a season fisherman or a novice. Space available, you can invite a friend over 18. If you are a novice this is the perfect trip for you, there are a lot of knowledgeable fishermen happy to help another Scout leader. Get in your reservation soon, we fill up every year. You can email me at pauloliver@roadrunner.com for any questions, or give me a call. Hope to see you on the water.

Chartermasters
Paul Oliver (818) 321-2699
Glenn Sartain (818) 681-8999

February 5, 2011 - CPR and first aid training

2011-01-26T22:43:00.000-08:00

Date: February 5th, 2011 (Saturday)
Course: CPR w/ AED Standard First Aid
Time: 8:30am to 12pm 12pm to 4pm
Location: Van Nuys Flyaway, Community Room (2nd Floor, Saticoy and Woodley)
RSVP: Secure online registration at www.safety101.org

More information

June 18 and July 23, 2011 - Jethawks Scout Sleepovers

2011-01-22T17:01:00.000-08:00

Dear Scoutmasters and Girl Scout Leaders

The Lancaster JetHawks (Class-A affiliate of the Houston Astros) are preparing for another fun season of great baseball and exciting entertainment. Every year, we host a night for both Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts and we would love to have you out to the ballpark for these great events! Right now, we have a special deal we are offering to Scout Groups. If you sign up for the Scout Sleepover, you will receive the same amount of tickets for our All-Scout Day on Sunday, April 10th! The Boy Scout Sleepover will take place on Saturday, July 23rd and the Girl Scout Sleepover will happen on Saturday, June 18th!

These events are always a blast for the Scouts and we would love to have your Scouts attend in 2011! If you have any questions, feel free to let me know. We look forward to another great year of JetHawks baseball! Have a great day and a great weekend!

Sincerely,

Will Murphy
Director of Ticket Operations and Community Relations
Lancaster JetHawks Professional Baseball
Ph: (661) 726-5400 x. 113
Fax: (661) 726-5406
Will@JetHawks.com
Class-A Affiliate of the Houston Astros

January 30, 2011 - Blood drive

2011-01-19T00:34:00.000-08:00

St. Catherine of Siena blood drive

Sunday, January 30, 2011
8:00 am to 2:00 pm

St. Catherine of Siena Church
18115 Sherman Way
Reseda, CA 91335
Bloodmobile in parking lot

Each participant will receive two Clippers tickets, a $5 gift certificate for Daphne's, and can enter a regional drawing to pick a vacation trip! (Details at drive)

To schedule your appointment, visit www.redcrossblood.org and enter sponsor code Stcatherine

For eligibility questions, contact Sherry with the American Red Cross at (818) 992-2005

For other information, contact Manny Gallegos at manuelng@att.net or (818) 257-1762

Sponsored by the youth of St. Catherine of Siena Parish:

St. Catherine of Siena Parish School
St. Catherine’s Office of Religious Education (SCORE)
Cub Scout Pack 328 and Boy Scout Troop 328

High-technology Venture crew

2011-01-19T00:11:00.000-08:00

Dear Friends,

I am planning on starting a High-Technology Venture Crew within the next couple of months. The Venture Crew is part of the Boy Scouts of America program; it is available to all boys and girls from ages 14 through 20 (within the San Fernando Valley area).

The focus of this High-Technology Venture Crew is to attract, promote, and develop long-term interest and skills (within the youth) in subject matters related to high-technology products and industries. In addition, the High-Technology Venture Crew organization will be run much like a company, including various "departments" like engineering, marketing, and production. This unique approach to the Venture Crew is intended to expose the youth to "real life" experiences in developing and fabricating high-technology products and potentially marketing them to the public.

I am looking for interested youth and adults, male and female. I am also still looking for a Charter organization and other companies or individuals who would like to be sponsors of the Crew.

The introduction letter has detailed information regarding the High-Technology Venture Crew. If you could forward this information onto the appropriate individuals who you think would be interested, that would be excellent. Interested parties can reach me at (818) 360-5159 or norbsoski@yahoo.com. Once again, thank you for all your help and support.

Norbert Soski
Future Venture Crew Advisor

March to May 2011 - Fly fishing classes and trip

2011-01-14T12:31:00.000-08:00

If you ever wondered what fly fishing is all about, this is the class for you!

Sierra Pacific Fly Fishers present four weeks of free expert instruction.

Learn to fly fish and complete many of the requirements for the merit badge.

Four Saturday sessions at Reseda High School
18230 Kittridge St.
Reseda, CA 91335

March 19 at 8:30 am - Registration and orientation
April 2 at 8:30 am - Late registration and casting instruction #1
April 9 at 9:00 am - Casting instruction #2
April 16 at 9:00 am - Casting instruction #3
April 23 at 9:00 am - Graduation trip pre-clinic^*
April 29 to May 1 - Class graduation and fly fishing trip^*

^*Details will be announced at casting instruction class #1

Contact Steve Ebersold at (818) 439-0556 or kanaiyukai@yahoo.com for more information

February 6, 2011 - Archery and BB Rangemaster Training

2011-01-13T10:10:00.000-08:00

Bill Hart District
Archery and BB Rangemaster Training

February 6, 2011

Who needs this training:
Anyone interested in bring Archery and/or BB Gun Shooting sports to their pack, as well as those interested in running a range at a Cub Scout Day/Twilight Camp.

Where is the training:
Valley Trails Camp
30910 Sloan Canyon Road
Castaic, CA 91384

Why do you need this training:
To meet the BSA Shooting Sports Rangemaster training requirements, and to provide scouts in your pack and our district the opportunity to participate in one of the most loved Scouting activities!

What to bring:
Class B or civilian clothes are fine.
Pen and paper for note taking.
Warm clothes (We will be outside part of the time.)

Time:
Archery Rangemaster Training will be from 8:00am to 12:00pm
BB Rangemaster Training will be from 1:00pm to 5:00pm

Cost:
$10.00 per discipline ($20.00 if you are taking both Archery and BB training)
Make checks payable to: Troop 583
Your registration must be received by Wednesday, February 2nd

To register, send the following information to:
Luann Peterson
22051 W. Sunrise View Place
Saugus, CA 91390

Name
Pack
District
Email
Street address
City and ZIP
Phone
Which discipline(s) you are signing up for

Questions? Contact Luann Peterson at luannpeterson@yahoo.com