Calling all Untrained Cub Scout Leaders and Interested Adults!
Seneca District will be having a Cub Scout Leader in person training on December 2, 2017.
This training will be presented in the afternoon from 1-3PM, at Grace United Methodist Church, 119 North Frederick Avenue, Gaithersburg. MD 20877.
Are there times when you want to ask a question when you are taking training on a computer? Well here is your chance to speak to a real person who can answer your questions. Bring your questions to the class. There will be experienced trainers available to answer or find the answer to your questions.
Please note this is an afternoon training on Saturday.
Registration Deadline:
Online Payment Only by November 30, 2017
Seneca will NOT accept payments at the Marriott Scout Service Center
We are sorry – there are no accommodations for children at this training event.
Course fee: $10
Schedule:
12:45 PM – Registration
1:00 – 3:00 PM – Class
Location:
Grace United Methodist Church (Frederick Ave & Walker Ave),
119 North Frederick Avenue,
Gaithersburg, MD 20877
Who takes training? This course is intended for Cubmasters/Assistant Cubmasters (C40), Den Leaders/Assistant Den Leaders (C42), Webelos Leaders/Assistant Webelos Den Leaders (C42), Committee Chair/Committee members (C60), Pack Trainers (C62), interested parents and any interested adult who is 18 or older.
What to bring:
Book for your position (e.g. Wolf book)
Cup (to save the environment)
Questions!!
Eat lunch before you come.
Prerequisites: Complete before attending: (my.scouting.org)
– Youth Protection (Y01)
– To get training, log in, click My Dashboard, then click Training Center
Suggested Courses to complete before coming: (online classes are found at: my.scouting.org)
– Before the First Meeting
– First 30 Days
– Hazardous Weather Training (WS81) Under Program Safety
Online registration requires the following information:
– BSA ID Number
– Name (As found on BSA membership card)
– Email Address
– Phone numbers
– Address
– District
– Pack Number
– Registered Position
– Position to be Trained for
– Training Completed
This is a uniformed event, if you have one wear it. If you need one let us know!
For more information contact Course Director; Paul Black at 301-947-7598 or drpaule@gmail.com.
If you have problems registering, contact the Training Coordinator; Mary Lou Gundersen at 301-869-5625 or mdtrainingrecords@comcast.net
Park in Church Parking lot off of Walker Ave., otherwise park on street or lot across from Walker Ave entrance of church. DO NOT Park in shopping center lot you will be towed. Enter church from church parking lot entrance/court yard.
Scouting For Food bag distribution is coming up this weekend. We still have 10,000 (TEN THOUSAND) bags left for distribution, which means we’re WAY BEHIND past years. Our goal this year is 30,000 pounds of food. Seneca District is asking larger units to please consider expanding your pick-up zones so that we can reach our goal. This is a goal that we’ve attained in prior years, but have dropped off the last two. I will be available Saturday after 9 AM and ALL DAY Sunday to deliver bags to units that need them over the weekend. I’m also available every evening after 5 pm this week to meet up with units as needed. Please email me at phil@dennis-family.org or call me at 301-758-4689 to arrange a meet up for extra bags.
The following link http://www.ncacsenecadistrict.org/program/scouting-for-food will take you to a map which shows where units have collected bags in the past. If your unit is looking to expand, please consider the areas that are not colored in on the map.
Scouting For Food pick up is Saturday, November 11, 2017. Please pick up bags AFTER 9 AM that day. All of our advertising and bags state the 9 AM pick up time and we’ve missed food pick ups in the past when units start early.
Pickup locations are the same as in prior years:
Quince Orchard High School
15800 Quince Orchard Rd,
Gaithersburg, MD 20878
9 am – 1 pm
Germantown Safeway
(Rt. 118 & Middlebrook, Germantown)
Drop-Off Times: 9 am – 1 pm
-Phil
Boy Scout Round Table will be held at 7:30 pm on Thursday, November 9, 2017 at:
Montgomery Village LDS Church
20020 Montgomery Village Ave,
Montgomery Village, MD 20886.
First off, special thanks to Assistant Round Table Commissioner Conrad Mallia for covering last month’s Round Table. This month we will talk about “Community Service – Why We Give Back” as we prepare for our annual Scouting For Food campaign. This discussion will include the process units use to report service hours as well as the importance of providing camping nights to council. We will also have a presentation from the Order of the Arrow about upcoming elections. If time permits, we will also talk about updating unit “pins” in www.beascout.org.
Rocket Day, November 4th. I can use 5 or 6 Scouts, age 14 and up, to help with the climbing wall. I need you there from 12: noon to 5:00 pm.
You get to climb as often as you wish, you get SSL hours, and Scout Service hours.
The event is at 13703 Turkey Foot Rd
(corner of Turkey Foot Rd & Travilah Rd)
North Potomac, Maryland
Please email or call Howard Lichtman, hjlichtman@lichtman.ws and 301.580.7190.
Thanks
Howard
BREAKING NEWS:
– Tiger and Lion Adult Partners will NOT be charged $6 liability insurance fee.
Rechartering (Annual Membership Audit) coming late Fall
Key current priorities:
– Units received their Internet Rechartering ACCESS CODE by email from BSA (to registered Key2). KEEP THIS – you’ll need it.
– Turn in applications now – don’t wait until rechartering.
– Planned your budget?
BSA membership fee increased by $9
NCAC insurance fee increased by $5
–> Total increase of $14 per registered person
– Youth Protection Update – everyone retake this fall?
Youth Protection Training (YPT) required every 2 years for all registered adults. Some will need to retake this fall. Takes about 30 min. online.
Effective Jan.1, the online course will increase to 60 minutes. Some may wish to retake this fall – current course will be valid for entire 2 years from date of completion.
Thursday, November 9, 2017
6:00 to 7:30 p.m.*
* (Troops setup from 6:00pm to 6:30. Webelos arrive at 6:30pm)
(Note the change of Location. Gaithersburg, not Germantown!)
LDS Church, 20020 Montgomery Village Ave., Gaithersburg, MD
Boy Scout Troops will be on-site to teach Webelos First Responder requirements!
Note that the locations has changed!!! The event is at the Montgomery Village LDC church, 20020 Montgomery Village Ave., Gaithersburg, MD
– Flier Attached.
– Note please that the location moved.
– Your Webelos will get a worksheet. The Den leader should collect and save the worksheets.
– Your Webelos may not finish the full requirement at the midway. Your Webelos leader can finish the requirement at a den meeting.
– If your leader needs help finishing helping the Scouts finish the requirement, call me. I or another commissioner will come out to your Den Meeting and help your den complete the requirement.
Howard Lichtman,
301.580.7190
Registration Link: https://scoutingevent.com/082-17VENTURINGCAMPOREE
Youth training needed for Venturing Awards will be available:
* Introduction to Leadership Skills for Crews
* Mentoring
* Project Management
* Goal Setting
* Time Management
… adults who plan to mentor these are welcome to register
Adult leader-specific training will be available:
* Venturing Advisor
* Venturing Committee Chair
NOTE: This is part of a weekend Venturing campout; feel free to attend the entire weekend, or just come out for training Saturday morning at the dining hall
** PLEASE CHECK IN FOR TRAINING BEFORE 8:30AM SAT
The new rechartering software is up and open, including pay by credit card
You must print and hand in the Charter Organization Agreement signed off in your package. Link is here: http://www.scouting.org/filestore/membership/pdf/524-182_web.pdf
Recharter envelopes are available from your UC or at RT
Fees are up for this year for all scouts and leaders.Now $33 + $6 for insurance. Tiger Lion partners no insurance
Codes have been distributed by email on 9/20 to unit leaders. Check Spam
Questions to your UC, ghenley2@gmail.com, or ben.litten@scouting.org
Turn in to your UC for review and processing,even if you pay online.
YIDS
Gordon Henley
Commish
All units, order deadline extended through this weekend to midnight on Sunday the 5th for your next delivery
Gaithersburg polling places are now available for sales, contact Ben for details before showing up
Please order proactively for the holidays – District needs to see lots of action to hit our annual goal
YIS
DE Ben and Commish Gordon
All current Boy Scouts — even those who completed their Eagle Scout board of review before Aug. 1, 2017 — are now entitled to receive Eagle Palms for merit badges earned before their Eagle board of review.
Previously, only those Scouts with an Eagle board of review date on or after Aug. 1, 2017, were eligible for these Eagle Palms. Now all current Eagle Scouts can receive Palms for additional merit badges earned before their board.
Please refer to the following link for full details.
Yours in Scouting and
Best Regards,
Tom
Thomas C. Kennedy
REMINDER: As is our custom, there will be no Eagle Boards of Review on the fourth Friday of November or the fourth Friday of December. This is done to accommodate the compression of the holidays.
There will be a single Eagle Board of Review for November/December at 7PM on 01 DECEMBER at Gaithersburg Presbyterian Church, 610 S Frederick Ave, Gaithersburg, MD 20877.
Please call with questions or if I can be of help.
Yours in Scouting and
Best Regards,
Tom
Thomas C. Kennedy
Troops – Another great SCOUT SERVICE opportunity for you!
What: Volunteer at Rocket Launch Day
When: Saturday November 4th Hours 12-5pm
Where: Hanson’s Farm 13703 Turkey Foot Rd
(corner of Turkey Foot Rd & Travilah Rd)
Why: Do a Good Turn Daily, Have Fun and Earn SSL Hours!
How: Contact Mr. Henley to volunteer ghenley2@gmail.com
More Info: Visit: https://scoutingevent.com/082-launchdays2017
As a result of feedback, the District Committee communications will now be coming from a new Google Group. Everyone previously receiving agendas and minutes should have been invited. Please check your spam boxes. If you have not been invited to receive communications and/or would like to be on the list, please send an email to seneca.districtchair@ncacbsa.org and identify your unit/role and you will be added. As a reminder, ALL Chartered Organization Representatives are invited as voting members to the District Committee meeting.
All District Committee communications will be coming from this source as of Nov. 1, 2017.
Yours in District Scouting,
Matthew Beyers
Chair, Seneca District
All new youth who join Scouting during August-October will receive a free rocket kit.
Flier with details is located on our website.
Completed application and fee must be received at the Scout Service Center by October 31.
Come join us for the fun on November 4.
Seneca District Membership Team
It is important to pass this information to your Webelos I and Webelos II Den leaders.
Webelos Midway Reminder and notes:
Webelos First responder Adventure!
Thursday, November 9, 2017
6:00 to 7:30 p.m.*
* (Troops setup from 6:00pm to 6:30. Webelos arrive at 6:30pm)
(Note the change of Location. Gaithersburg, not Germantown!)
LDS Church, 20020 Montgomery Village Ave., Gaithersburg, MD
Boy Scout Troops will be on-site to teach Webelos First Responder requirements!
Note that the locations has changed!!! The event is at the Montgomery Village LDC church, 20020 Montgomery Village Ave., Gaithersburg, MD
– Note please that the location moved.
– Your Webelos will get a worksheet. The Den leader should collect and save the worksheets.
– Your Webelos may not finish the full requirement at the midway. Your Webelos leader can finish the requirement at a den meeting.
– If your leader needs help finishing helping the Scouts finish the requirement, call me. I or another commissioner will come out to your Den Meeting and help your den complete the requirement. (Howard Lichtman, hjlichtman@lichtman.ws, 301.580.7190)
Scouting For Food bags were distributed at Round Table two weeks ago. If your unit did not receive bags and needs them, please contact me (Phil Dennis) at phil@dennis-family.org. I will make arrangements to get you bags before distribution on November 4th. I’m out of town this week, but can arrange to have bags available most evenings from my home if need be. Otherwise, we can work something out after October 31st.
The following link http://www.ncacsenecadistrict.org/program/scouting-for-food will take you to a map which shows where units have collected bags in the past. If your unit is looking to expand, please consider the areas that are not colored in on the map. Again, please contact me if you have any questions or concerns.
Our goal this year is 30,000 pounds of food to collect for Manna Food Bank, Gaithersburg HELP, Germantown HELP, and Poolesville Food Bank. It is important that ALL units report their totals to our council. The link for this is http://www.ncacbsa.org/sff and more information will be provided on this after we start collecting food.
Food collections will be at the same locations as in years past:
Quince Orchard High School
15800 Quince Orchard Rd,
Gaithersburg, MD 20878
9 am – 1 pm
Germantown Safeway
(Rt. 118 & Middlebrook, Germantown)
Drop-Off Times: 9 am – 1 pm
The times are a little earlier than first reported, but most units wrap up by 1 pm on collection day.
REMEMBER: BAGS ARE NOT TO BE PICKED UP BEFORE 9 AM!!!!
Our advertising campaign and the bags themselves state that we will pick them up AFTER 9 AM on Saturday November 11.
-Phil
Need help especially with Rocket Launch, Rocket Build and B.B. shooting. Also need staff to run the Bobcat Advancement station.
Please write to ghenley2@gmail.com
YIS
Commish.
Gordon Henley
Attn ALL UNITS –
Rocket Into Scouting deadline is coming up. All new applications must be paid and turned into DE Ben Litten by 31 October in order to earn a rocket. All units eligible.
Then bring your rocket to build launch at Rocket Day. Https://scoutingevent.com/082-launchdays2017
See you there!!! Food and other activities will be available.
Commish
Gordon Henley
Register at: https://scoutingevent.com/082-17VENTURINGCAMPOREE
See flyer for details
All new youth who join Scouting during August-October will receive a free rocket kit.
Completed application and fee must be received at the Scout Service Center by October 31.
Come join us for the fun on November 4.
Matt
All new youth who join Scouting during August-October will receive a free rocket kit.
Completed application and fee must be received at the Scout Service Center by October 31.
We have two rocket launch opportunities for Seneca. One on October 15 and the second on November 4. Come join us for the fun.
See the attached flyer
Matt
Join us at our season three of InterAct Story Theatre’s Wheaton Family Theatre Series for your scouts and their families. Our kick-off is October 21 with the premiere of a brand new play for young audiences called The Town That Cried Avalanche. The October event is the first in a series of free arts events, made possible through funding from the Arts and Humanities Council of Montgomery County’s Wheaton Cultural Projects Grant and the Maryland State Arts Council.
The Town That Cried Avalanche, will take place at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, October 21 at Highland Elementary School in Wheaton, Maryland. Like all Wheaton Family Theatre Series events, this performance is free and open to the public. Doors open at 10:40, and audiences are encouraged to arrive early. The performance will be followed by a post-performance talkback and workshop by the playwright and director of the play, InterAct’s Artistic Director Ali Oliver-Krueger.
The play was inspired by a short story written by fourth graders at Montpelier Elementary School in Laurel; the story was presented as part of InterAct Story Theatre’s First Ever KidStory Theatre Festival, the theatrical celebration of stories written by kids that closed out Season Two of the Wheaton Family Theatre Festival last May.
In The Town That Cried Avalanche, the tiny mountain town of Avalanche, California is rocked with controversy: how can they balance the need for progress with taking care of the environment? A quick solution is not in sight, and how can they even talk about it when everyone is mad at each other? As in real life, there are no quick and easy answers, and the children in the audience play a pivotal role in trying to wrestle with the question: As part of the play, the Mayor of Avalanche calls a town hall meeting, and invites the whole audience to participate in the discussion. The kids become the citizens of Avalanche, and are asked to imagine what they think should be done to save their imaginary town.
The media release has more details about this interactive performance for kids and families and also has the whole season for the Wheaton Family Theatre Series through May 2018 that includes new plays, world music and dance, a showcase of writing by children and InterAct’s first-ever children’s opera.
Steven Wolf
Communications &
Community Outreach Manager
InterAct Story Theatre
32 Pennydog Court
Silver Spring, MD 20902
Phone: 301-467-6133
The Webelos Midway will now be held at the Montgomery Village LDS, same date/time (11/9/17, 6:30pm for Webelos).
More information, and a flier, can be found here:
See you there!
The Seneca District Membership Team
We will be talking about the Hornaday Awards this week and have an open session to discuss any unit issues. Thanks.
–Conrad
Join us for a Mountain Man Rendezvous
See you Friday!!!
October 13 -15, 2017
at Manidokan Retreat center near Harper’s Ferry WV
For details
New – Unit Guide
New – Station Descriptions
Contact: Bill Majurski
The theme is “Cubs give Thanks” and the scout law to be covered is Reverent. Topics to be covered will include Blue and Gold preparations (it is never too early) and the new Journey to Excellence scoring system.
Come for the on-line recharter system training at 6:30, stay for the roundtable starting at 7:30. Don’t forget to come and pick the Scouting for Food bags.
See you at the LDS Montgomery Village, 20020 Montgomery Village Ave.
Alex Pranger
D.C. United is inviting all units from the NCAC out for their final match ever at RFK Stadium! On Sunday, October 22nd at 4:00pm, scout units will be able to witness history as D.C. United faces off against their fiercest rivals, the New York Red Bulls to close out their 22 seasons at the historic venue. Tickets are discounted for all scout groups of 10 or more people, and a lot of other FREE events are happening that day.
A link for all the RFK finale events can be found here: https://www.dcunited.com/lastcall (the list will update as more things are added)
Scout units will receive a 2017 D.C. United Scout Night patch for each scout in attendance (based on availability), group seating with a scoreboard shout-out for the unit, and priority for scout outings at our new stadium Audi Field next season, so don’t miss out on the chance to witness soccer history in DC and a scout trip next season to the first ever soccer specific stadium in DC!
When is a good time to get in touch to see which match works best for your fall scout outing?
Thanks,
Aaron
Aaron McCollum
Account Executive- Group Sales
–––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––
D.C. United | 2400 East Capitol St. SE, Washington, DC 20003
W: 202.587.5480
Location: Marriott Scout Service Center
Schedule:
– Midway – Midway 7PM
– Meeting – Meeting starts at 730PM
We are currently starting cleanup efforts after the impact of Hurricane Irma.
We do not expect any 2018 programs to be cancelled or rescheduled due to Hurricane Irma. All Christmas 2017, Spring 2018, and Summer 2018 crews should plan on attending their scheduled Sea Base program.
Visit our website for details.
Check out the new River Trek and Mountain Bike Trek programs as well as a simplified menu of offerings.
Click here for more details
Space is available for Cold Weather Camping experiences in our Okpik program. Click here to register online.
Winter 2018/2019 lottery will open in January
Dear Seneca District Folks –
In 2011 and 2012 we ran a 1-day WEBELOS Academy event for WEBELOS I and WEBELOS II scouts across NCAC. Two Activity Pins were earned – one in the morning, another in the afternoon. The activities were led by Saint Anselms Abbey School teachers with the help of current students currently active in Boy Scouts. Many kids from Seneca District participated.
We are bringing this event back this Fall to be held Saturday October 21, 2017. We will be offering 5 Adventure Pins: Science, Engineer, Art, Sportsman and First Responder.
What is the best way to get the announcement out to Cub Packs in your District? We hope some of your WEBELOS can join us! Announcement is attached – and registration is now open.
Thank you
Ken Low
Assistant Scoutmaster
Washington DC
On behalf of:
WEBELOS Academy 2017
Saint Anselms Abbey School
4501 South Dakota Ave NE
Washington DC 20017
Washington DC 20017
The 2018 Recharter Training will be held Oct 12th at new location – LDS 20020 Montgomery Village Ave, Montgomery Village, MD 20886
We will start at 6:30 in the gym and be done in time for RT for those interested. Staff will be available for questions after as needed.
New processors should be in attendance with rosters reviewed and YPTs moving toward current.
PLEASE HAVE ONE MEMBER FROM EACH UNIT IN ATTENDANCE. There are changes this year to fees and SW tools.
YIDS
Gordon Henley
Seneca District is offering Den Chief training
Schedule:
Registration: 1:30-1:45PM
Class: 2:00PM to 4:00PM
Class will start promptly at 2:00pm
Location: Fairhaven United Methodist Church
Costs:
Youth – $20.00 each
Adults – Free, but must be registered
NOTE: At least One Adult must accompany boy(s) from the Unit. (Adult can be from their Troop or the Pack that they are working with.)
We are accepting online registrations only.
– Online registrations with payment will be accepted thru November 10
Why be a Trained Den Chief?
Who is a Den Chief? The Den Chief supports the Cub Scout Den Leader, serving as a helper, role model, and a friend to the Wolf and Bear Cub Scouts and Webelos Scouts.
Qualifications: Be an experienced Boy Scout, (at least one full year or more), and First Class rank or above. A Venturer Scout, or a Venturing Scout (male or female) can also be a Den Chief. Take Den Chief Fast Start online and the in person Den Chief training.
Who Else Should Come?? Boy Scout and Cub Scout Leader(s) who will be working with the Den Chief (s) are encouraged to attend this course at NO charge, but you MUST register. To be credited for the course you will need to complete the same prerequisite as the boys and provide proof of completion.
This is a FULL uniformed event; Class A (not just waist up). Dress for the weather you will be outside for part of the training.
Prerequisites:
– Complete “Den Chief Fast Start” training online before you register
– It should take you about 45 minutes to complete and will generate a graduation certificate at the end.
– Bring Proof (copy of the certificate
What to Bring:
– If you have the 2015 edition of the Den Chief Hand Book (SK# 620805) (Youth will be provided a copy if needed)
– Adults should bring a copy of the book
– Pencil and paper
– Your own water bottles. (please have your name on the bottle) (water only)
– Bug repellent/sun screen
NOTE: Cub Scout Packs and Day Camps are looking for trained Den Chiefs to assist with the program.
If you have problems registering, contact the Training Coordinator; Mary Lou Gundersen at 301-869-5625 or mdtrainingrecords@comcast.net
Attention All Units – News on NEW RoundTable location –
RoundTable has a new HOME! Beginning this month (now) RT will be at LDS Montgomery Village at #20020 Montgomery Village Ave.
This is beyond Denny’s and the old golf course traveling East.
This is a permanent change as LDS has reorganized many activities, and Thursday is no longer available for outside use at Kingsview.
See you next Thursday at the new spot!!
YIDS
Gordon Henley
Service Area Rocket Launch Day is MOVED to November 4th from 1 to 4 pm.
We are very close to confirming the awesome Climbing Wall for this event
More details and flyers coming soon. Get those apps and payments on now!!!
Commish
Gordon Henley
Scouting For Food bags will be distributed at the October Round Table meeting on Thursday, October 12th, 2017. Last year, our totals dropped almost 15% over prior years. We collected almost 28000 pounds (14 TONS) of food for Manna Food Bank, Gaithersburg Help, Poolesville Food Bank and Damascus Area Food bank. We’re hoping to bring our total back over 30,000 pounds of food for 2016. We will have plenty of bags and some sample fliers that you can use as templates for your unit.
Bag distribution is scheduled for Saturday, November 4th, 2016 and bags will be picked up starting at 9 a.m. on Saturday November 11th.
Pick up locations are the same as in prior years:
Germantown Safeway
(Rt. 118 & Middlebrook, Germantown)
Drop-Off Times: 10am-2pm
Quince Orchard High School parking lot
15800 Quince Orchard Rd.
Gaithersburg, MD 20878
Drop-Off Times: 10am-2pm
Please feel free to contact Phil Dennis if you have any questions.
From Scouting Magazine
This year’s Pow Wow will take place on October 28, 2017 at Annandale High School. Doors open at 7:30 am. Register online now for the early bird price and save.
Who should attend Pow Wow? Short answer: ya’ll. And…
All registered adult Cub Scout Leaders, potential leaders, and interested parents should attend. This includes Cub Masters and their Assistants; Lion Den Guides, Tiger Den Leaders and their Assistants and partners; Wolf, Bear, and Webelos Den Leaders and their Assistants; Pack Committee members and activity/event Chairpersons; Charter Organization Representatives; and any adult who wants to learn more about how to have a better Cub Scout program.
For complete info and registration, just click on the link.
Seneca Scouters,
The BSA Outdoor Ethics Guide Handbook is here!.
The purpose of the handbook is to guide units in developing a culture that effectively demonstrates responsible outdoor choices that reduce impacts of Scouting activities. The handbook identifies the responsibilities of the outdoor ethics guide, provides ideas on how to carry out this role, and lists resources. It also provides methods for leaders to support Scouts selected for this position and a way to evaluate success.
The Outdoor Ethics Guide is a troop or team position of responsibility that counts for the leadership requirement for Star, Life, and Eagle ranks. It was instituted in the 13th edition of the Boy Scout Handbook. This position replaces the role of the Leave No Trace Trainer.
Every troop should have an Outdoor Ethics Guide and ideally the Guide should take at a minimum the Leave No Trace online awareness class, the TREAD Lightly! on-line course, and the BSA Outdoor Ethics Orientation. A scout who earns the Outdoor Ethics Awareness Award and attends the Leave No Trace Trainer course (taught 4 times a year by NCAC) will be empowered to be even more successful.
The handbook is available here:
Looking for an BSA Outdoor Ethics Orientation (90 min) or Leave No Trace 101 (3-4 hours) session for your unit? Please contact me!
Paul Schimke
Leave No Trace Master Educator
Maryland Leave No Trace State Advocate
Leopold Education Project Facilitator
Tread Trainer
NCAC Outdoor Ethics Committee
301 906 0069 (cell)
D.C. United is inviting all units from the NCAC out for their final match ever at RFK Stadium! On Sunday, October 22nd at 4:00pm, scout units will be able to witness history as D.C. United faces off against their fiercest rivals, the New York Red Bulls to close out their 22 seasons at the historic venue. Tickets are discounted for all scout groups of 10 or more people, and a lot of other FREE events are happening that day.
A link for all the RFK finale events can be found here: https://www.dcunited.com/lastcall (the list will update as more things are added)
Scout units will receive a 2017 D.C. United Scout Night patch for each scout in attendance (based on availability), group seating with a scoreboard shout-out for the unit, and priority for scout outings at our new stadium Audi Field next season, so don’t miss out on the chance to witness soccer history in DC and a scout trip next season to the first ever soccer specific stadium in DC!
When is a good time to get in touch to see which match works best for your fall scout outing?
Thanks,
Aaron
Account Executive- Group Sales
–––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––
D.C. United | 2400 East Capitol St. SE, Washington, DC 20003
W: 202.587.5480
CQ, CQ, Any Scout On this channel….
Fourth Graders See America’s natural wonders and historic sites for free.
Puts it ALL in your palm – training, rosters and commissioner tools
Scouters, now you can carry more of the tools you need to do your job everywhere Scouting takes you.
The myScouting app, the BSA’s official app to help leaders facilitate the Scouting program, has a refreshed look and all-new features.
The app is free and available now for Android devices (Android 4.4 KitKat or higher), as well as iPhones and iPads (iOS 9.0 or higher). Just search “myScouting” in your device’s app store.
For more details
Kicking off the new Scouting year for Boy Scout Round Table on September 14, 2017 at the Kingsview LDS Church. This month we will be talking about “Social Media and Scouting” as well “Community Service – Why We Give Back”. We will also work on our schedule for the rest of the year at this meeting, so YOUR input is important for YOUR Round table! Your Round Table Staff looks forward to seeing all of you at our meeting this Thursday Night at 7:30.
Phil Dennis
Join us for a Mountain Man Rendezvous
Foosball, archery, tomahawks, giant slingshot
Fire building, primitive shelters, Blacksmithing
and a lot more.
We have a total of 21 stations spread across 199 acres. The list of stations and suggestions for preparing for the Skill stations is available on the website and here.
All Scouts, Venture Crews, Explorer Posts from Seneca, Potomac and White Oak districts are invited. Webelos may attend as part of a Troop. Units from outside our area may attend as well. We just got permission to allow Girl Scout Troops (Cadet and older) to attend!
October 13 -15, 2017
at Manidokan Retreat center near Harper’s Ferry WV
Register your unit now, add Scouts later.
For details
To register
New – Unit Guide
New – Station Descriptions
Contact: Bill Majurski
Details are not yet available, but save the date for now!
Many Units have been able to fund their entire program year by participating in the Trail’s End Popcorn Sale. By selling Trail’s End Popcorn your Unit can raise enough money for your program year with just one fundraiser. The Trail’s End Popcorn sale is a turn-key program and 73% of the proceeds goes back to support our local programs. Scouts have the ability to earn their own way; learn life skills, get great prizes, earn a College Scholarship and so much more.
Join us for a short orientation and hear how you can fund your Ideal Year of Scouting. Last season Pack 1520 of Colonial District had sales of over $70,000. We can show you how to do it. We have set up an informational session September 14, 2017 @6:30 PM at the Marriott Scout Service Center, refreshments will be served and you will be able to sample some delicious Trail’s End Popcorn.
For registration
Stephen D. Allen
Field Director Montgomery Service Area
& Council Popcorn Staff Advisor
The Glen Echo Fire Department is planning a scalable mass casualty incident drill and we are looking for community members to participate as simulated patients and bystanders. The drill will be taking place at Walt Whitman High School in Bethesda from 8am to approximately 12 pm on Sunday, October 8. We will be simulating the fire/rescue response to an incident where there are between 20 and 30 patients.
Civilian participants will act as moulaged patients or will act as bystanders at the incident. Anyone ages 14 and older can participate. Free food and community service hours will be available to all participants.
More information about being a patient or by-stander can be found here.
To sign up, fill out this form: website.
Any questions can be directed to Firefighter/EMT Ryan Graves (Eagle Scout, Troop 1427), the Training Coordinator for the fire department, at ryan.graves@gefd.org
We are seeking volunteers to help run the many stations for the Seneca Fall Camporee. There are still lots of great stations that we need lead and support staff for – Fire Building, Knife and Tomahowk Throwing, and Slingshot to name a few. If you will be attending the camporee with your unit and would like to help out either for a portion of the weekend or the entire, please e-mail Jim Hardter at jhardter@msn.com to sign up. Or if your unit is not attending but you would like to come out and help for the weekend, we can really use your support.
Every youth deserves a trained leader.
Did you know that all Adult leadership must be trained in the position that they are registered in BSA? Now is the time to take advantage of training that is within our own Seneca District.
Don’t wait until you are doing your re charter paperwork and the Journey To Excellence (JTE) paperwork to find out that your leaders are not trained.
Seneca District:
Do not miss out on the opportunity to attend Training on September 16th
at Grace United Methodist Church, 119 North Frederick Avenue, Gaithersburg, MD 20877
Online registration closes: September 14th
Scoutmaster/Assistant Scoutmaster Training (S24) in person training
Commissioner Basic Training (D20) in the morning
Commissioner Cub & Boy Scout Roundtable Training (D24) in the afternoon
The next Seneca Training opportunity will be December 2nd at Grace United Methodist Church, 119 North Frederick Avenue, Gaithersburg, MD 20877
Online registration closes: November 30th
Scoutmaster/Assistant Scoutmaster Training (S24) in person training
Other Training Opportunities:
White Oak District:
Scoutmaster/Assistant Scoutmaster Training (S24) in person training October 7th
Introduction To Outdoor Leader Skills (IOLS – S11) – October 28-29
Western Shore District:
Training Extravaganza October 14th, Patuxent Presbyterian Church, 23421 Kingston Creek Road, California, MD
Go to the W.S.District’s page calendar to locate the course listed, by date and name.
Online registration closes October 13th
S24, Scoutmaster/Assistant Position Specific Training
21, Venturing Leader Position Specific Training D72,
Chartered Organization Representative Training
NA, Chaplains Assistant Training (Youth and Adult)
Training Chair
Mary Lou Gundersen
Please make sure the Webelos Midway is on your Pack calendar. All of your Webelos Dens should be attending this annual event. It gives the Webelos, and their parents, an opportunity to see Scouts in action, meet and arrange visits with Boy Scout Troops in our area, and other opportunities, as mentioned in the flier.
The event is being held at the LDC Church, 18900 Kingsview Rd., Germantown, MD, on Thursday, November 9, 2017. Boy Scout Troops arrive at 6:00 to set up. Webelos Should arrive at 6:30.
I look forward to meeting everyone there.
For additional information, and to let me know you Webelos dens will be there, contact Howard Lichtman; hjlichtman@lichtman.ws, 301.580.7190
Howard Lichtman
The Cub Scout Roundtable plans a focus session on “Using on-line Registration for new Scouts and Leaders” and other topics of interest to Pack and Den Leaders. We welcome new leaders looking for tricks, tips, hints and guidance and for seasoned leaders to share what they have learned. We will be covering the Scout law “Thrifty” and the theme of “A-Camping we will Go” to help leaders prepare for October meetings.
– Alex
Need training? Seneca District is holding a training day on Saturday, September 16. We are offer:
Sign up and come join us for a day of fun training
Is your leadership training being done by the book, but your leaders are struggling?
Have your Scouts completed leadership training but have difficulty leading? Are your graduates of NAYLE (National Advanced Youth Leadership Experience) not the ones your Scouts look to as a leader?
Are members of your unit disengaged, not attending to what’s going on around them, buried in their smart phones?
Are your Scouts electing their leaders using “The Nose Game”; last person to put their finger on their nose is stuck with being the leader? [The leader is a loser.]
Would you like to learn games and activities that uncover a team’s strengths and weaknesses in a safe but challenging way?
Consider taking the training to become a facilitator of Challenging Outdoor Personal Experience (COPE). In a weekend, learn an experiential approach to developing life skills such as leadership, teamwork, trust, planning, problem solving, decision making, self-esteem, and communication. This approach is based on activities and nontraditional, non-competitve games. You will learn that basics of facilitating leadership development sessions which can be tailored to your unit’s needs and assets
The COPE facilitator training session will be held at Camp WB Snyder (6100 Antioch Rd, Haymarket, VA). Training starts at 7:00 pm Friday, 27 Oct. Goes all day Saturday. Wraps up by noon, Sunday 29 Oct. Food and lodging will be provided (Carroll’s Cottage). Cost: $50
Students should bring personal hygiene materials, sleeping materials (pillow, sleeping bag or blankets), parts A&B of your BSA medical form.
Please tell us about any personal dietary issues (such as food allergies, religious restrictions).
Registration is open to adults and youth who are registered with BSA. Age appropriate guidelines recommend youth be 14 years of age or older. NCAP standard SQ-409 allow youth who are 16 years of age to perform as “COPE Instructors in Training” (can act as facilitators, but not count for staffing ratio), and 18 years of age to perform as COPE Instructors (count for staffing ratios).
Anyone who is not registered with BSA but would like to attend are encouraged to join BSA.
Please address your questions or comments to Tony Waisanen, NCAC PM for Climbing, Rappelling, Bouldering and COPE, NCAC.COPE@gmail.com
First change – Any kindergartner is eligible for Lions, even those born on December 31st. The September 30th birthdate cutoff has been eliminated.
Second change – The Lion leader (coordinator) does NOT have to be an experienced scouter, although it really helps. An outgoing parent with leadership skills is eligible.
A Lion den must have a registered Lion Leader. You do not have to have your Lion leader registered prior to recruiting Lions, but be sure you have one when you register your Lions.
George Goldsmith
Seneca District Lion Coordinator
Just announced, BSA will increase registration fees by $9 (to $33 per year/per scout/per adult) effective 1 December. Please get this information to your recharter and new member leaders ASAP as it most likely affects you as they enter their prime membership recruiting season when annual dues/fees are often collected.
Note that local BSA insurance will also increase to $6 for this year, in addition to the above.
This fee increase comes 47 months after the last fee increase, we have been assured that this fee increase and the timing was unavoidable.
This fee change will affect Cub Scout packs, Boy Scout troops, Venturing crews, Sea Scout ships, and Exploring posts/clubs. However, it will NOT apply to LDS-sponsored units, nor to those units with council-paid memberships.
If you have additional questions, please contact Gordon or Ben at the usual addresses.
Commish
Gordon Henley
All unit leaders that camped this spring/summer or fall upcoming – Last year many units emailed me with their camping activities and I’m again asking each Seneca unit for camping information this year (where, when and how many nights, how many scouts) so that I can keep track of your camping activities for the District-level “Journey to Excellence” award.
You can send this to me at ghenley2@gmail.com I will aggregate the information to be sure you are given credit for all the camping you do.
Please complete by 25 September so I can submit by end of month.
YIDS
Commish
Gordon Henley
What: 40th Annual Gaithersburg Railroadiana Sale and Show
AND the 12th Annual Model Railroad Train Display and Show
Where: Montgomery County Fair Grounds, in the “Old Auditorium” (Chilly Hall),
Gaithersburg MD
When: Sunday 5 November, 2017, 9am to 4pm.
Who: Anyone with the interest… Engines, road stock, scenery, little people, for looking at and for sale. Over 100 tables, large operating layouts.
How do & How Much: Drive up, walk in. $9. Adults, under 12 free.
Contact? Charles Miller, 703.536.2954 rrshows@aol.com
What: Capitol Trackers O Gauge Train Show
Where: Kensington Town Hall,
3710 Mitchell Street, Kensington, Maryland
When: Sat 9 Sept. and Sun 10 Sept. 11am to 5pm
Why: Watch trains do things…
Benefit Noyes Children’s Library Foundation and Kensington Historical Society
Who: Capitol Trackers Model Train Club, anyone who LOVES model trains,
Scouts working on Railroading MB ? Cubs “Go See It”?
How Do & How Much: Show up, $7. Adults, $5. Children, $15 contiguous family…
Give your eclipse glasses a second chance! Astronomers Without Borders and Explore Scientific are collecting glasses to be sent to schools in South America and Asia when eclipses cross those continents in 2019.
Or hold on them for the 2024 eclipse!
I know we would all like to go down to Texas to help “bail”, but that is not practical. Many Scout Councils have been significantly affected.
See the list here:
– Sam Houston Area Council (Houston),
– Three Rivers Council (Beaumont),
– Three Rivers Council (Beaumont),
– Bay Area Council (Galveston),
– South Texas Council (Corpus Christi),
– South Texas Council (Corpus Christi),
– as well as counties within the Alamo Area (San Antonio), Capitol Area (Austin), and Calcasieu Area (Lake Charles)
Google them directly to see their web sites and learn of their particular needs. In the mean time, be careful of Scam artists asking for “donations ! The two best places to send your checks are probably:
– American Red Cross: Donate online at RedCross.org, call 1-800-RED CROSS or text HARVEY to 90999 to make a $10 donation.
– Salvation Army: Donate online at HelpSalvationArmy.org; by phone at 1-800-SAL-ARMY; or via mail to: The Salvation Army, P.O. Box 1959, Atlanta GA 30301
From White Oak District
Join us for a Mountain Man Rendezvous
Foosball, archery, tomahawks, giant slingshot
Fire building, primitive shelters, Blacksmithing
and a lot more.
We have a total of 21 stations spread across 199 acres. The list of stations and suggestions for preparing for the Skill stations is available on the website and here.
All Scouts, Venture Crews, Explorer Posts from Seneca, Potomac and White Oak districts are invited. Webelos may attend as part of a Troop. Units from outside our area may attend as well. We just got permission to allow Girl Scout Troops (Cadet and older) to attend!
October 13 -15, 2017
at Manidokan Retreat center near Harper’s Ferry WV
Register your unit now, add Scouts later.
For details
To register
Contact: Bill Majurski
Join us for a Mountain Man Rendezvous
Foosball, archery, tomahawks, giant slingshot
Fire building, primitive shelters, Blacksmithing
and a lot more.
Fire building, primitive shelters, Blacksmithing
and a lot more.
We have a total of 21 stations spread across 199 acres. The list of stations and suggestions for preparing for the skill Scout Skill stations will be posted here in few days.
All Scouts, Venture Crews, Explorer Posts from Seneca, Potomac and White Oak districts are invited. Webelos may attend as part of a Troop. Units from outside our area may attend as well. We just got permission to allow Girl Scout Troops (Cadet and older) to attend!
October 13 -15, 2017
at Manidokan Retreat center near Harper’s Ferry WV
Early-bird discount on registration ends August 31. Register your unit now, add Scouts later.
For details
To register
Contact: Bill Majurski
If you love Scouting, spread the word!
Share your Scout’s favorite memory or accomplishment from this summer with your friends on social media and let them know what Scouting means to you and your family
NCAC Social Media Week is August 27-September 2!!
What to do: During the week of August 27, ask every Scout parent in your unit to share a photo, video, or other memory of their Cub Scout, Boy Scout, Venturer, Sea Scout or Explorer having fun at a Scouting activity. Use the hashtag #ShareSouting or #myNCAC so we can see it too!
Then, invite friends to learn more about Scouting! Share your Scout unit’s Join Scouting Night information on social media, and encourage your friends to visit BeAScout.org.
Follow NCAC on Social Media
Come for the Expo, stay for the night! Cubs can enjoy camping with family and scouting friends in crisp fall air. The event fee includes full access to the Cub Scout Fall Expo! There will be vendors, shooting sports, games and activities for Cubs and Cub aged siblings. We will cap off the day with a group campfire!
Early Bird registration ends September 30, 2017 so register early and save!
Location: Camp William B. Snyder
Register here
Location: B&O Railroad Museum
901 W Pratt St, Baltimore, MD 21223
What: Tribute to Harry Potter at Platform 93/4. Please bring your Harry Potter/Hogwarts costume for Friday night.
Who: Cub Scouts, Boy Scouts, Venturers, Explorers
Check-In: October 20 from 5-8 PM
Departure: October 21 at 4PM (Merit Badge help available until 6 PM)
Food: All units should bring their own food. No cooking on premise and all ice chests must stay in vehicles except for meals. Friday bring your own food. Saturday breakfast and lunch available at Bay #2 for $5.00 each – pay online during registration.
Prerequisites must be completed before arrival in order to earn the merit badge.
Every unit should have a Unit Coordinator. Please have Medical forms Parts A & B on hand. Please send Coordinator information to railroadoree@gmail.com.
Important Documents – available here:
2017 RROR Leader’s Guide
2017 Merit Badge Schedule
Merit Badge Prerequisites ListÂ
2017 RROR Information Flyer
Adult Leader Trainings: Youth Protection Training, Merit Badge Counselor Orientation, ASM/SM Position Specific, Cub Leader Specific Training
All staff including merit badge counselors must register online.
If you need the $10.00 RROR Staff discount code, please email railroadoree@gmail.com.
This event will sell out quickly, please register early.
Contact E-mail – railroadoree@gmail.com
Cost
$25.00 per Adults
$25.00 per Boy Scout
$25.00 per Cub Scout
$25.00 per Explorer
$25.00 per RROR Staff
$25.00 per Sea Scouts
$25.00 per Siblings
$25.00 per Venturer
Late fee – see website
Cancellation Policy
No refunds after October 1, 2017.
Activities include Air Gun Shooting ranges, Archery, Tomahawk throwing, rock wall climbing and elements from the COPE Challenge Course.
We plan to have vendors from around the area showcasing recreational activities of all kinds. Learn about kayaking, canoeing, skiing, white water rafting, rock climbing, shooting, archery, hiking, and backpacking option in the area. Meet staff from area stores that carry equipment to meet your outdoor adventure needs.
Camping in the Great Outdoors!
Units are encouraged to camp with us Friday and Saturday night to take full advantage of all that the Great Outdoors! event has to offer.
Each fall InterAct story theatre presents a show in September in Silver Spring. While there is a small admission fee, we do offer discounts for Packs and Troops. This show is best for ages 4 and up, so Packs may be the most interested, but since we are a professional theatre company, older scouts may want to come to see the show to observe a show from a production perspective.
The Legend of Pufferfish Pat: A Tall Tale for Mad Times is an interactive cowboy play for kids and families set in the Wild West, and it’s all about figuring out how to manage anger and other big feelings when it feels like we could just bust a gut!
In this rootin’ tootin’ tall tale penned by InterAct’s Artistic Director Ali Oliver-Krueger, we meet Pufferfish Pat, a legendary cowboy hero who can outride, outrope and outrun just about anything–except his own hair-trigger temper! When Pat gets angry, he blows up like a Pufferfish, which gets him a nickname he hates and bad reputation he doesn’t want. He wants to be a friend to everyone and stay cool as a cucumber…he just doesn’t know how! And with the little town of Gravy Gulch heating up for the annual Great Gravy Cookoff and Fashion Festival, it’s more important than ever that Pat keep his cool! Where can he go to find folks who might understand or help him with this ornery problem? And what happens when black hat cowboy One-Eyed Jack rolls back into town, looking to get Pat run out of town for good? Will Pat be able to get a hold of his mean temper in time, or is it adios, Gravy Gulch?
The play is performed by three actors appearing as many different characters in and around the dusty town of Gravy Gulch, with help from the whole audience, who get to become the cowpokes and townsfolk of Gravy Gulch right from where you sit!
Best for ages 4 and up.
Where: Performances will be held at the Montgomery College Cultural Arts Center, 7995 Georgia Avenue, Silver Spring, Maryland 20910
When: Three weekends, September 8-23, 2017:
Friday, September 8, 2017: 7 p.m. (Pay What You Can Performance)
Saturday, September 9, 2017: 11:30 a.m. & 1:30 p.m.
Sunday, September 10, 2017: 11:30 a.m. & 1:30 p.m.* (*Sensory Friendly Performance)
Friday, September 15, 2017: 11 a.m. & 1 p.m.
Saturday, September 16, 2017: 11:30 a.m., 1:30 p.m. & 4 p.m.
Sunday, September 17, 2017: 11:30 a.m. & 1:30 p.m.
Friday, September 22, 2017: 11 a.m. & 1 p.m.
Saturday, September 23, 2017: 11:30 a.m. & 1:30 p.m.
Ticket Prices: $12.50 full price; $10 kids 4-11; (Kids under 3 are FREE, best for ages 4 and up)
Run Time: Approximately 45 minutes
This production is supported in part by a grant from the Maryland State Arts Council. On the web at MSAC.org. Also, supported in part by Arts and Humanities Council of Montgomery County, the Montgomery County government and the generous support of a legion of donors and partners. Thank you for supporting arts for kids and families in Maryland!
For Tickets: www.interactstory.com/pufferfish-pat
Steve Wolf
Communications &
Community Outreach Manager
InterAct Story Theatre
32 Pennydog Court
Silver Spring, MD 20902
Phone: 301-467-6133
The 28th Annual V3 (Venturing, Varsity, and Venture) Hike-o-ree will be held October 27-29, 2017, at the Northern Virginia 4-H Educational Center, Front Royal, VA. Registration is limited to trail capacities of the fifteen trails. The Hike-o-ree is open to all Scout units including Venturing Crews, Sea Scout Ships, Varsity Teams, Boy Scout Troops, and Girl Scout Troops.
The cost of the Hike-o-ree is $18.00 ($20.00 for extra extra large shirts) per participant.
Registration opens 8/31 at 6pm
Newly Added Flyer – 9/5/2017
All participants must have completed Introduction to Outdoor Leader Skills, as well as the position-specific training for their program area (Venturing or, Varsity or, Boy Scout) prior to attending this course and be able to meet current physical requirements of the BSA Annual Health & Medical Record.
Classroom: Sat. 9/23 from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM at
Heritage Presbyterian Church
8503 Fort Hunt Road
Alexandria, VA 22308
Overnite: Sat. 10/21, 7:30 AM thru Sun. 10/22, 1:30 PM
Camp William B Snyder
6100 Antioch Road
Haymarket, VA
Register via the NCAC web-site
Class size limited to 48. Fee is $45.00
FOR INFORMATION: Dominick Caridi: DscScouting@aol.com / 703-625-4196
Merit Badge Counselors (MBC) Rechartering will soon commence. What is needed for MBCs are two things
1) Simply respond with a ‘yes or no’, whether it be electronically, written, or verbally to our Merit Badge Dean.
2) Make sure your Boy Scout ‘Youth Protection Training’ (YPT) certificate is current and doesn’t expire before 12/31/17. If your YPT does expires before it needs updated, otherwise, you will be suspended or dropped automatically as an approved MBC and would need to re-submit all forms to be re-approved.
We’d also like to encourage all approved MBCs if not trained, to become trained, whether it be through our District online electronic classroom type, or through National at your my.scouting.org account under your Dashboard / Training sections. Both are valid.
Please note: If a Unit Leader and you’d like to become an approved Merit Badge Counselor, please follow the guidelines as set forth in Guide To Advancement chapter 7 and register properly.
If a Unit Merit Badge Coordinator and would like to have District Reports to reconcile your records with ours, please contact and let me know.
Thank you for your service and willingness to help Scouts advance.
Matthew Ogden
All –
For Scouter Digest and push to any appropriate unit leaders by UCs:
We are going to focus the Seneca page in the next issue of Scouter Digest on High Adventures places units tackled this year that are different and not often visited.
We would like pieces from three of four units, and maybe some Post/Venture activities such as a rocketry competition or extended sail at some cool place. Please take some good group and signage shots that can work for a short article with 3 pictures when you get back.
Deadline is mid September – please don’t ask me to slip, this is a huge publication and timeline is fixed. DE Ben has to approve all articles also.
Looking forward to seeing your unit in the next issue!
YIS
Commish
College isn’t cheap, but for more than 150 worthy Eagle Scouts, it’s about to get a lot more affordable.
The National Eagle Scout Association will award nearly $700,000 in scholarships to Eagle Scouts based on their academic performance, Scouting background, college plans and financial need.
The window for the latest round of National Eagle Scout Association scholarships opened Aug. 1, 2017. It will close for good on Oct. 31, 2017. Scholarship recipients will be notified by mail on July 15, 2018, and money will be disbursed to these deserving Eagle Scouts in fall 2018.
The scholarships are highly competitive. Less than 3 percent of the 5,000 expected applicants will receive a scholarship.
But if you are an Eagle Scout between your senior year of high school and junior year of college, you’ll want to apply and give yourself a chance at earning some cash for college.
See Bryon on Scouting for the rest of the information.
Troop 7369 planning a Merit Badge University December 9th, 2017 from 7:30am-5pm at St. Timothy’s Catholic School (13809 Poplar Tree Road, Chantilly, VA 20151). Lunch and morning and afternoon snacks included with registration. More to come in early November on meritbadge.info.
YIS,
Renee Geary and Syamala Malladi,
Troop 7369 Merit Badge University Coordinators
Troop 7369 Merit Badge University Coordinators
We would love to see photos of your solar eclipse adventures posted on the Seneca FaceBook page
How can you tell if your solar viewer is not safe? You shouldn’t be able to see anything through a safe solar filter except the Sun itself or something comparably bright, such as the Sun reflected in a mirror, a sunglint off shiny metal, the hot filament of an unfrosted incandescent light bulb, a bright halogen light bulb, a bright-white LED bulb (including the flashlight on your smartphone), a bare compact fluorescent (CFL) bulb, or an arc-welding torch. All such sources (except perhaps the welding torch) should appear quite dim through a solar viewer. If you can see shaded lamps or other common household light fixtures (not bare bulbs) of more ordinary brightness through your eclipse glasses or handheld viewer, and you’re not sure the product came from a reputable vendor, it’s no good. Safe solar filters produce a view of the Sun that is comfortably bright (like the full Moon), in focus, and surrounded by dark sky. If you glance at the Sun through your solar filter and find it uncomfortably bright, out of focus, and/or surrounded by a bright haze, it’s no good.
From Kevin Hopson:
Are any scouts looking to see the eclipse and volunteer as well. SSL will be given. Kevin Hopson
Maizie Cummings-Rocke [mazy row-key]
Office: 301.251.1628
DAY OF: 301-275-9364
Rockville Science Center Volunteers Info: [Remember, we need volunteers to be at the event at 11:30am for setup and training.]
Scout Volunteers:
– Boy Scout Volunteers MUST check in at the Rockville Science Center Kiosk and say you’re with Maizie (mazy); we have some coming to do other areas.
You will get SSL hours. They will be emailed to you. Please wear your Class A uniform. We love the community to see the Scouts in action. And we adults can better see and direct you at the event when you are in uniform. Always use the Scout Buddy System. Take time to enjoy the event.
All volunteers:
– There will be chairs for volunteers. But you may want to bring a soft folding chair.
– Long day. Bring lunch/snack.
– Bring water. Bring Water. Did I mention you should bring water? I’m bringing my poncho. You never know what the weather may do.
Instructions for volunteers from the Gaithersburg Community Museum:
DATE: Monday, August 21
VOLUNTEER HOURS: 11:30-4:30/5:00
EVENT HOURS: 1-4pm; Eclipse starts at 1:17 and ends around 4pm.
LOCATION: Observatory Park, 100 DeSellum Avenue, Gaithersburg, MD 20877
PARKING: Corner of DeSellum and Route 355
LOGISTICS: Bring water and food if you need it (lunch). Some water and snacks will be provided. Be ready for crowds. Check the weather and dress accordingly. We will provide the viewing glasses for you. The will be a porta potty at the park.
WEATHER CONTINGENCIES: Because this is such a teachable moment and we have so many great activities planned, this is a rain or shine event, but not necessarily in the same place. GOOD OR CLOUDY WEATHER-as planned at the Observatory. RAIN-we will move to the Activity Center. We will post on Facebook if anything changes so please check before heading over.
This program is a science based event and there will be many STEM activities. Before the event please try and familiarize yourself with some of what will be happening. Below is a list of activities and where you can learn the science behind the activity and how to facilitate it for the public. NASA Eclipse Activity Guide will give you information on the science represented in the solar eclipse. Several of the activity instructions are in the guide. When that is the case, rather than a separate link there is a reference to page numbers.
– Solar Eclipse – Involves modelling a solar eclipse
– Big Sun, Small Moon – Concept of apparent size
– Orbiting Object – Involves simulating planetary orbits
– Earth Masks – Involves cutting out the earth and eye holes and taping solar glasses to back – simple craft. No need for advanced training
– Earth-Sun-Moon Model – Involves cutting out model pieces, some gluing and brads – this model demonstrates how the Earth orbits the Sun and the Moon orbits the Earth. I don’t have separate science behind it, but is essentially is the reason why there is an eclipse so once you familiarize yourself with that science you are good to go.
– Solar Eclipse Field Notebook – Notebook from Maryland Science Center for recording
– Solar Eclipse tattoos/Stickers – Basically temporary tattoos. Have not quite 400. Will put them on until we run out
– Solar Prints – Make sun prints by using sunblock and construction paper. This project will need finishing at home because the paper probably won’t fade as quickly as we’d like. This video is for a different activity, but explains the science behind it
– Sundial – Make a sundial – we’ll be using a different sundial template, but here is the science behind it – page 24 in the Eclipse Guide
– Solar Eclipse Picture – Chalk picture of the eclipse – pages 34-35 in Eclipse Guide
– Sunscreen – I’ll show you about it – very easy On right below intro, look for the pdf titled- Exploring Products:Sunblock http://nisenet.org/catalog/programs/exploring_products_-_sunblock_nanodays_2011_2012 https://vimeo.com/106420299
If there is a particular activity that you would like to lead, please let me know and I will try to assign you to that activity, the exception being those of you who can staff a telescope, you will be stuck on the scopes!
For day of event issues, please call me at 301-275-9364 or Nansie at 240-644-4904. If you have a problem and can’t show up, please call and let me know!
But just in case – the NASA Eclipse 2017 Live- Streaming video
The Camporee is coming
The Camporee is coming
The Camporee is coming
Join us for a Mountain Man Rendezvous
Foosball, archery, tomahawks, giant slingshot
Fire building, primitive shelters, Blacksmithing
and a lot more
All Scouts, Venture Crews, Explorer Posts from Seneca, Potomac and White Oak districts. Webelos may attend as part of a Troop. Units from outside our area may attend as well.
October 13 -15, 2017
at Manidokan Retreat center near Harper’s Ferry WV
Early-bird discount on registration ends August 31. Register your unit now, add Scouts later.
For details
To register
Contact: Bill Majurski
Eagle Advancement Seminars for the 2017-2018 Scouting Year will be conducted at the individual unit level as requested by the individual units. All Scouts, parents, adult leaders and committee members are welcome and encouraged to attend.
It is strongly encouraged that each Unit take advantage of this training to ensure that potential Eagle Scouts, their families and unit leaders understand the Eagle Advancement Process and have the opportunity to ask questions.
Please contact Tom Kennedy (301-840-1409) or Christine Jeffrey (301 916-8909) to schedule an Eagle Advancement Seminar for your Troop, Crew, Team or Ship. Please give us 3-4 weeks lead time so we can schedule appropriately.
YIS
Tom Kennedy Christine Jeffrey
(301)-840-1409 (301) 916-8909
Effective 01 Aug 2017:
The way Scouts earn Eagle Palms has changed in a big way
Eagle Palms are bronze, gold and silver awards presented to young men who earn five, 10, 15 or more merit badges beyond the 21 required to become an Eagle Scout.
This week, the BSA has announced significant changes to the way Scouts earn Eagle Palms. The modifications take effect Aug. 1, 2017.
The changes bring Eagle Palm requirements in line with the needs of older Scouts. The National Boy Scouting Subcommittee has eliminated unnecessary obstacles, such as the Eagle Palm board of review, and expanded the definition of active participation.
But the biggest change affects young men who haven’t yet earned Eagle. Beginning Aug. 1, all earned Palms may be awarded instantly to new Eagle Scouts at their Eagle court of honor. This abolishes the wait of months or years for these young men to receive all Palms available to them.
Here’s a look at what’s changing. Below that, an in-depth guide to the new Eagle Palm requirements.
What’s changing?
1. A new Eagle Scout can instantly receive, alongside his Eagle medal, all Eagle Palms he has earned for merit badges completed before he became an Eagle Scout. These Palms recognize additional merit badges earned before completing the Eagle board of review. Previously, an Eagle Scout needed to wait three months between each Palm — even if he earned the extra merit badges before becoming an Eagle. This meant that, under the old rules, a young man who became an Eagle Scout at 17 years and 10 months, was mathematically unable to earn any Eagle Palms.
o Example: Glenn, a 16-year-old Life Scout, has 36 merit badges at the time of his Eagle Scout board of review — 15 more than required. Previously, he would’ve needed to wait three months after his Eagle board of review to receive his Bronze Palm, another three months for his Gold Palm and another three for his Silver Palm. Under the new rules, he can get that Silver Palm (representing 15 additional merit badges) along with his Eagle medal at his Eagle Scout court of honor. No wait required.
o Note: After becoming an Eagle Scout and receiving the Palms already earned, additional Palms may be earned by completing the revised requirements, including the three months tenure between awarding each Palm.
2. The three-month tenure requirement has been expanded to allow active participation in any BSA program — not just the troop and patrol.
o This recognizes that as some Scouts get older, their Scouting participation shifts to the Order of the Arrow, summer camp staff or elsewhere.
3. The leadership requirement has been broadened to include “accepting responsibility” as well as “demonstrating leadership.”
4. The Eagle Palm board of review has been eliminated.
o Eagle Palms are not ranks, so the Eagle Palm board of review was seen as an unnecessary step. A unit leader conference is deemed to be sufficient and may be conducted at any time during the tenure requirement.
All Units – –
Please begin now to get organized on the following:
1. Compare your local roster to Member Manager on my.scouting. Submit or email about any needed corrections or issues, esp scouts missing. FIX KEY 3 if updates needed, you will not get National emails.
2. Advise all adults with YPTs expiring between now and Feb to get started on updates. Easy to do now, hard to find some of the culprits later when you need to submit. See Training Manager for details on who is aging.
3. Look at and learn the basics of using On Line Registration . Units are starting to get inquires and apps on line. Ben and I CANNOT reply directly to them. only your unit Key 3 can. Some of you are missing these, most are active and bonafide leads. Invitation Manager and Application Manager.
YIDS
Commish and DE Ben
By: NCAC CVOA & Venturing Crew 27
“A Long, Long Time Ago In a Scout Camp Not So Far Away”
For more details
Come join Venturers from around our entire council for food and fun at our Venturing Potluck Barbecue and Field Day! Come climb the Scouterhorn! Challenge your Crew to get to the top!
For more details
For most viewers, the Aug. 21, 2017, total solar eclipse will last less than two and half minutes. But for one team of NASA-funded scientists, the eclipse will last over seven minutes. Their secret? Following the shadow of the Moon in two retrofitted WB-57F jet planes.
The two planes, launching from Ellington Field near NASA’s Johnson Space Center in Houston will observe the total eclipse for about three and a half minutes each as they fly over Missouri, Illinois and Tennessee. By flying high in the stratosphere, observations taken with onboard telescopes will avoid looking through the majority of Earth’s atmosphere, greatly improving image quality. At the planes’ cruising altitude of 50,000 feet, the sky is 20-30 times darker than as seen from the ground, and there is much less atmospheric turbulence, allowing fine structures and motions in the Sun’s corona to be visible.
Watch the NASA Eclipse 2017 Live- Streaming video
Simulator set for Gaithersburg MD – https://eclipsemega.movie/simulator?lat=39.1434406&lng=-77.2013705
1:12pm-4:12pm
For an example of an area where there will be a total eclipse – enter Carbondale, IL
Is your Cub Scout Pack ready for Lions, a Scouting program for kindergarten-age boys?
Do you need training on the Lion Program? Come and join us and learn what it is all about!
This is training for all National Capital Area Council Packs
When: Saturday, August 12, 2017
Time: 9:30 am
Where: Our Lady of Mercy Church 9200 Kentsdale Drive
Potomac, MD 20854
Space is limited so we will not be able to accommodate walk-in.
Reserve you place now by emailing your name, your pack number and District to: Danielle Ballantine at dmballantine@gmail.com or Bill Mayo at William.g.mayo@gmail.com by August 10, 2017
Dear Seneca District:
As one of America’s leading youth-serving organizations, we aim to bring the benefits of Scouting to the greatest number of youth possible — all while remaining true to our mission and core values, outlined in the Scout Oath and Law. At the recent National Annual Meeting, our organization began a conversation about whether and how Scouting should serve a broader constituency and began discussing options that could help us truly serve the needs of today’s families. Based on the feedback, there was strong support that we thoughtfully move the discussion forward and continue our work in meeting the needs of families.
As we think about the future, we are interested in gaining your perspective as a member of the Scouting community. We will view a 30 minute video, followed by discussion and you will be provided the opportunity for written comments through an online survey.
Please join us for an important discussion, replacing Roundtable, on August 10, 2017, 7:30pm at the Kingsview LDS Church, 18900 Kingsview Rd, Germantown, MD 20874, as we continue the important conversation about how to make Scouting more accessible to today’s families.
Free PIZZA will be served between the JSN training and our conversation on Family Scouting!
I look forward to speaking with you on August 10, 2017. Please email me directly if you have any questions at: seneca.districtchair@ncacbsa.org. For planning purposes, an RSVP is appreciated, but not necessary.
Thank you for everything you do to make Scouting a pivotal part of our community.
Yours in Scouting,
Matt
Chair, Seneca District
National Capital Area Council
Listed below are packs without JSN dates logged in, unless someone else has info that has not been forwarded. Let’s get on this. We have work to do this late in the planning season.
Packs 64, 76, 221, 318, 436, 438, 468. 618, 694, 1084, 1438, 1440, 1761.
PLEASE plan to attend JSN training Thursday night August 10th at 6:30 LDS Germantown and pick up your JSN materials.
YIDS
Commish
Gordon Henley
The 2017-2018 Scouting year kicks off at the August 10th Roundtables. Come join us at 7:30pm to get a jump start on the year.
What is “the path of totality”?
The 70-mile-wide, 3,000-mile-long swath that lies directly in the shadow of the moon is called “the path of totality.” For this eclipse, it will start off the coast of Oregon and sweep across the country to South Carolina. Because the moon orbits around Earth so quickly (at a pace of 2,100 miles per hour), each spot on the path will experience only about two minutes of totality. There is no way to chase the shadow around the country — the moon will cross the entire United States in about 90 minutes, faster than the speediest jetliner.
What will I see if I am not inside the path of totality?
The shadow of the moon, known as the “umbra,” will cross a relatively small swath of land. But the moon also casts a lighter shadow, called the “penumbra.” People in this region, which will cover all of North America, will experience a partial eclipse. They will see the sun partly covered by the moon — like a cookie with a bite taken out of it. The degree to which the sun is covered depends on your proximity to the path of totality — the closer you are, the less of the sun you will see. People in the Washington area can expect to see about 80 percent coverage of the sun, starting just after 1 p.m. and peaking around 2:42 p.m. If you are watching a partial eclipse, you must wear protective glasses for the entire event, or you will risk severe eye damage.
The Pomo, an indigenous group of people who live in the northwestern United States, tell a story of a bear who started a fight with the Sun and took a bite out of it. In fact, the Pomo name for a solar eclipse is Sun got bit by a bear.
After taking a bite of the Sun and resolving their conflict, the bear, as the story goes, went on to meet the Moon and take a bite out of the Moon as well, causing a lunar eclipse. This story may have been their way of explaining why a solar eclipse happens about around 2 weeks before or after a lunar eclipse.
For those who volunteer from Seneca – please send an email to Matt Beyers so we can keep track of how many participated. Include the names and unit number.
The Office of Emergency Management and Homeland Security would like to extend an invitation for COAD members to volunteer during Metro’s Full Scale Exercise. Please forward to your volunteers if you think they may be interested.
As part of the ongoing quarterly exercise series for regional first responders, Metro will be conducting a full-scale exercise at the White Flint station on Sunday, August 27, 2017.
One of the main focuses of the exercise is the evacuation of a train in a tunnel. Volunteers involved in the train evacuation could be on the train up to 60 minutes as we de-energize the 3rd rail power and begin the exercise. Volunteers without mobility concerns should expect to access the roadway and walk back to an area of safety under the direction of the fire department. We anticipate the volunteers arriving at 6:30 a.m., with the exercise beginning between 8:15-8:30 a.m. Volunteer participation should be over no later than 11:30 a.m., with the exercise completed no later than 2:00 p.m.
All volunteers will be required to sign a waiver in order to participate in the exercise. Participation is limited to those 13 years of age and older. Anyone younger than 18 years of age must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.
If you and/or a family member are interested in participating, please register each person individually at the link: http://events.eventzilla.net/e/wmata-2017-quarterly-exercise-series–fullscale-exercise-white-flint-2138900320
Under the “More Information”, please list the organization that you are affiliated with dash COAD (e.g. CERT- COAD).
If you have questions, please contact Anthony Zarrella (Metro) at azarrella@wmata.com or 202-962-1015
Netta Squires
Regional Planner, Montgomery County Office of Emergency Management and Homeland Security
100 Edison Park Drive, Suite 1S31
Gaithersburg, MD 20878
Welcome back from the summer. Stop by to visit the Cub Scout and Boy Scout Roundtables and see what is happening. See you on August 10 at 7:30pm.
Fly over the Great American Eclipse – Computer simulation of view 100 miles up
Why a total solar eclipse is such a big deal – How solar and lunar eclipses work.
You can track when the various stages will hit your location via the link below.
You MUST have proper eye protection to view the eclipse.
Total solar eclipse of 21 Aug 2017 – https://www.greatamericaneclipse.com/
While this include some ads, there are helpful hints on what is where.
The Montgomery County Public Libraries has put out a beautiful brochure describing events from June through August 2017. There is something for all ages, all languages, all subjects, nearly every day.