Westchester-Putnam Council, BSA

With mixed emotions I must announce that Tom Holl will be leaving the Westchester-Putnam Council effective May 31, 2013 in order to pursue other educational and employment opportunities.

Tom joined the Westchester-Putnam Council on September 7, 2010 as a District Executive serving Manitoga District. Tom made a nice impact as a District Executive serving as the Camp Director for Camp Waubeeka and as the staff advisor to the Thunderbird Games.

Tom, who received his B.A. in English from the Catholic University of America is an Eagle Scout from Maplewood New Jersey and has served on our camp staff for the past eleven summers rising through the ranks in a variety of key roles.

While we will certainly miss Tom, please join me wishing him all the best!

Ice Skate Pin and Belt Loop
On Saturday April 7, 2013, the ice skating pin and belt loop took place, where the Scouts and siblings, had a fantastic time. The staff at the Bridgeport Sound Tigers helped our Scouts earn their pin and belt loop. Despite the many trips and falls that they took, they were determined to keep going. The Westchester-Putnam Council would like to thank the Bridgeport Sound Tigers for their continued support in helping our Scouts earn awards!

2013 Camp Card Program
How the Camp Card Sale Works:

The New Camp Card is designed to help youth fund their way to 2013 Camp programs.
This is a Risk Free Unit Sales project where all Scouts can earn their way to Camp, Jamboree, Philmont, other activities, Uniforms and Camping Equipment, or simply to support unit program.
Each Camp Card will sell for only $5.00 to the general public and will have multiple food, service and entertainment discounts for the customer to use throughout the year.
The participating unit will keep 50% commission of the sales for each Camp Card sold!
With the $10 Dick's Sporting Goods and $5.00 C-Town Food Stores discounts, the Camp Card more than PAYS FOR ITSELF!
Commissions from the sales are encouraged to be applied toward directly sending youth to Summer Camp, but they may be used as the unit committee sees fit.

Complete Camp Card Program Details and Forms

Register Online
Update an Existing Registration

Passing of Ann Hammonds
TO: Westchester - Putnam Council Scouting Family
FROM: Marc T. Andreo, Scout Executive
SUBJECT: Passing of Ann Hammonds
DATE: March 9, 2013

It is with deep sadness that I inform you, Ann Hammonds - wife of Steve Hammonds our Director of Support Services passed away early this morning after a brief illness.

Steve has informed me that the family is planning a private ceremony, thus there will be no public services. Understanding that people may want to recognize Ann's effect on their lives and the lives of others, Steve has asked that I pass along the following for those that are interested – the request should be of no surprise if you know Steve and Ann.

"If someone is interested in making a donation in Ann's memory, I would like the funds earmarked for the construction of fishing docks at the Durland Scout Reservation. Ann loved the camp, loved the lakes and loved fishing. Ann and I built the fishing dock on Sperling Pond during one of our vacations in the mid 1990's. That project brought her great pleasure, both during the construction and while watching others enjoy using it.
The amount raised will determine the size and number of docks constructed. Rather than purchase docks, I think we will build them. I believe there will be a group of people who will want to be a part of the construction."

Notes of condolence can be sent to Steve at 1 Clear Lake, Putnam Valley NY 10579 and donations for the fishing docks can be sent to the Council Service Center at 41 Saw Mill River Road, Hawthorne NY 10532.

I hope that we will all keep Ann, Steve and their family in our thoughts and prayers.

A Tribute to Ann Hammonds
March 10, 2013

Explorer, is how I would describe the lady, who, probably, knew more about the reservation we all used to call Clear Lake, but now know as Durland scout camp. During much of her spare time, it was her fondness for the area and for trecking along the trails, and, often, into the wilderness, that many discoveries of areas previously used as training ground for revolutionary war soldiers, was searched. Many artifacts were found, and a considerable collections of English and colonial coins are the result of her explorations.

We were concerned for her safety, and it was planned, but never accomplished, to put together a light pack containing essentials, such as a folding hiking stick, a compass, a flashlight, a whistle, a horn, a food container, a first aid kit and some other items, and present it to Ann.

We now have many regrets that we failed to carry out the plan, and sorrow that we are now beyond an opportunity to make it easier for her to be prepared during her wanderings.

Those of us, who are able to roam over the reservation, will remember the lady explorer, whose spirit we may encounter, and maybe we will make discoveries as she did.

I wish to express sympathy to her loved ones, and I know that Ann will always be remembered as the fine and friendly person that she always was.

Affectionately,
Lee Hart

Philmont 2014
The Westchester-Putnam Council is putting together a contingent for interested leaders and Scouts who want to hike at the Philmont Scout Ranch in July 2014

Trail Dates are July 13 - 25, 2014

2 Adults and 10 Scouts will fill this contingent on a first-come-first served basis, so long as they meet the following criteria by July 2013:

Leaders who will be Wood Badge trained with Summit Trekking experience will be given preference
Scouts who will be 14 years of age OR have completed the 8th grade and be at least 13 years of age by June 28,2014. Summit Trekking experience, NYLT training and First Class rank will be given preference as well

Cost with airfare, travel accommodations, preparations and camp fees, will be approximately $2,000 per person for this once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Philmont is the BSA premier High Adventure™ base, which challenges Scouts with more than 214 square miles of rugged New Mexico wilderness.

Program features combine the best of the Old West - horseback riding, burro packing, gold panning, chuckwagon dinners, and interpretive history - with exciting challenges for today - rock climbing, burro racing, mountain biking, and rifle shooting - in an unbeatable recipe for fast-moving outdoor fun.

To sign up or if you have any questions regarding the contingent, please contact Assistant Scout Executive Deric Wertz at dwertz. This contingent will be organized by May 1st so that it can be fully prepared for this memorable Scouting high adventure experience!

Philmont Flyer

Westchester-Putnam Council Jewish Committee on Scouting Receive Chai Awards
Members of the Westchester-Putnam Council's Jewish Committee on Scouting (WPCJCoS) attended the 26th Annual Northeast Regional Jewish Committee on Scouting (NERJCoS) Conference on March 10th, 2013 at InfoAge (Camp Evans) in Wall, NJ.

One of the highlights of the day was the presentation of the NERJCoS Chai Awards. This is an award unique to the NERJCoS and is only presented at the NERJCoS Conference. For the Bronze Chai award, the nominee must have served at least two years on the local Jewish Committee on Scouting or on the Region or National Committees. Work should be of an outstanding and exemplary nature. All volunteers and professional BSA personnel who have done exemplary work toward the betterment of Scouting within the Jewish Community over a two-year period are eligible. The Gold (after two years after the Bronze) and Silver (after an additional two years) Chai Awards are also presented.

Local members of the WPCJCoS were honored with awards at the conference. Jay Singer and Steve Lieb were awarded the Bronze Chai award. David Eppinger and Dave D'Lugin were awarded the Gold Chai award. Jim Eppinger was awarded the Silver Chai award.

From left to right:
Dave D’Lugin, Jay Singer, David Eppinger, Jim Eppinger and Ethel Shuart

Membership in Scouting
To: Westchester-Putnam Council, BSA Scouting Community

From: David Walsh, Council President
Michael Nolan, Council Commissioner
Marc Andreo, Scout Executive

Date: February 6, 2013

Subject: Membership in Scouting

Thank you for your continued support of Scouting. Your service and commitment to our organization helps deliver great programs for young people throughout Westchester and Putnam Counties. We would like to update you on the recent discussions within the Scouting program regarding the current national policy precluding members and leaders based on sexual orientation.

Earlier today the national volunteer leadership of the Boy Scouts of America voted to continue a review of this policy, to be concluded at the National Annual Meeting this May. At this meeting, approximately 1,400 voting members of the national council will vote on a resolution that will be developed over the next two months.

Locally, we are disappointed that a vote on this national policy was postponed but are encouraged that this important dialogue will continue. Regardless of the outcome of this ongoing discussion, we will continue to trust parents and our chartered partners to select Scout leaders from their communities who are the very best role models for our children.

Today, we ask everyone to stay focused on our mission of providing the best youth leadership and development program with the best volunteer leadership to as many young people as possible. Be a part of this discussion by staying engaged and continuing your role in Scouting - the kids we serve need you!

2012 Popcorn Sale
DRUM ROLL PLEASE

The Winners have been Chosen:
A Council-wide thank you to our Units that participated in the 2012 Fall Popcorn Sale! All season there have been incentives to keep selling and raising more money, and it's time to announce some top sellers and the winners of those incentives!

Congratulations to the Top Ten Selling Units!
Pack 5 White Plains ($29,073) - $10,757 in commissions earned!
Pack 5 Bronxville ($25,852) - $9,048 in commissions earned!
Pack 101 Vista ($21,766) - $7,618 in commissions earned!
Pack 6 Crestwood ($13,764) - $5,092 in commissions earned!
Pack 38 Shrub Oak ($11,560) - $4,277 in commissions earned!
Pack 134 Mohegan Lake ($11,375) - $4,208 in commissions earned!
Troop 5 Yonkers ($10,353) - $3,830 in commissions earned!
Pack 353 Eastchester ($10,295) - $3,603 in commissions earned!
Pack 11 Rye ($9,975) - $3,690 in commissions earned!
Pack 119 Brewster ($9,494) – 3,322 in commissions earned!

Winner of the Council Unit Incentive!
For every $4,700 in combined gross sales, each Unit received 1 entry into a drawing for their choice of a Pinewood Derby Track, $1,250 in Read Dollars, or a $1,000 Gift Card -- and the winner is … Pack 6 Crestwood!

District Scout Incentive Winners!
For every $600 in sales, each Scout received 1 entry into a drawing within their own district to win a $50 Gift Card! Congratulations to...

Algonquin - Kirk P. – Troop 1 Purchase
Manitoga - Michael T. Pack 38 Shrub Oak
Mohican - Henry F. – Troop 5 Yonkers
Muscoot - John O. – Pack 101 Vista

Computers Pin & Belt Loop Day
The Microsoft Store in White Plains at the Westchester Mall, has partnered with the Westchester-Putnam Council, Boy Scouts of America to host the Cub Scout pin and belt loop day. 17 Cub Scouts attended a recent session on February 2. They worked diligently to earn their awards. They learned the basics of how to turn on and turn off a computer, to internet safety and creating thank you letters. The staff at the Microsoft Store were more than accommodating and are eager to continue working with the Scouts of the Westchester-Putnam Council.

Ineligible Volunteer Files and Scouting's Youth Protection Program

Message to the WPC Scouting Community

Message to the WPC Scouting Community

Youth Protection Reporting Procedures for Volunteers
BSA Youth Protection Policies
There are two types of Youth Protection–related reporting procedures all volunteers must follow:

When you witness or suspect any child has been abused or neglected—See "Mandatory Report of Child Abuse" below.
When you witness a violation of the BSA's Youth Protection policies—See "Reporting Violations of BSA Youth Protection Policies" below.

Mandatory Report of Child Abuse
All persons involved in Scouting shall report to local authorities any good-faith suspicion or belief that any child is or has been physically or sexually abused, physically or emotionally neglected, exposed to any form of violence or threat, exposed to any form of sexual exploitation, including the possession, manufacture, or distribution of child pornography, online solicitation, enticement, or showing of obscene material. You may not abdicate this reporting responsibility to any other person.

Steps to Reporting Child Abuse

Ensure the child is in a safe environment.
In cases of child abuse or medical emergencies, call 911 immediately. In addition, if the suspected abuse is in the Scout's home or family, you are required to contact the NYS Office of Children and Family Services at 800-342-3720.
Notify the Scout executive or his designee. (See contact names/numbers below.)

Reporting Violations of BSA Youth Protection Policies
If you think any of the BSA's Youth Protection policies, including those described within Scouting's Barriers to Abuse have been violated, you must notify your local council Scout executive or his designee so appropriate action can be taken for the safety of our Scouts.

Youth Protection can be achieved only through the shared involvement of everyone in Scouting. Remember—Youth Protection Begins With YOU.®
For more information about the BSA's Youth Protection policies, visit http://www.scouting.org/YouthProtection.aspx.

Youth Protection Reporting Procedures with Contact Information

John M. Coughlin Center Dedication
Dedication August 4 at Read Scout Reservation

On Saturday August 4th the Westchester-Putnam Council held a truly inspirational dedication of the John M. Coughlin Center at the Curtis S. Read Scout Reservation. Jack who has been a dedicated Scouter for more than 75 years was recognized by an anonymous donor ensuring his legacy will be recognized for generations to come at our Trading Post and Leaders Pavilion in Camp Buckskin.

Jack was quoted as saying "this recognition of my service to Scouting is the highlight".

Family, friends, board members and staff will always remember this great surprise dedication honoring one of the true treasures of the Westchester-Putnam Council

Weale / Hellman Handicraft Pavilion Dedication
On Friday July 27th Scouts, volunteer leaders and staff gathered at the Curtis S. Read Scout Reservation to dedicate the Weale / Hellman Handicraft Pavilion in Camp Buckskin. Special thanks to Ross Weale and Per Hellman whose tireless work has greatly impacted Scouts for nearly a generation. This special gift to the Westchester-Putnam Council now ensures that future generations will benefit as well from their kindness and generosity.

New Tour and Activity Plan
Scout units and councils have been using some form of tour-planning document—a local or national tour permit, or a tour plan—since the 1960s. On May 10, 2012, the newest version took effect and replaces all previous iterations.

The new tour and activity plan is simply a planning tool to help leaders be prepared for a safe and fun adventure. It can help you ensure trained leadership is in place, equipment is available, and there is safe and appropriate transportation to and from an event.
Please use the online version of the plan whenever possible. It is a unit-level tool when you sign into MyScouting.org . A printable version for your Scouters without Internet access is available here. Please review all of the information on the tour and activity plan FAQ. A video showing you how to submit a tour and activity plan is on the FAQ page and here.

If you use the online version, you no longer have to collect signatures or council approval. Complete the plan and certify that any missing requirements will be completed before the trip begins. When you submit the plan online, an email will be sent to your council, chartered organization, committee chair, and your designated emergency contact.

Please contact the Council Service Center with any questions.

Tour and Activity Plan
Activity Consent Form and Approval By Parents or Legal Guardian

Clarifying Unit Tax Exempt Status
In response to questions we often receive, the following information is provided to clarify the tax exempt status of BSA packs, troops, and crews.

Unit Fiscal Policies and Procedures

Log Your Service Hours for Journey to Excellence
In order to earn Journey to Excellence, your unit must log the hours of each service project you do. It is simple to do and crucial to your unit earning Journey to Excellence. This program has replaced Good Turn for America. See flyer for details, and start logging your hours now!

Log your service hours here
Service Hours Instructions

Online Training!
All training courses for Cub Scout Leaders are now available online at: http://www.scouting.org/volunteer/training

Courses include:
1. “Cub Scout Leader Position-Specific Training”
2. “Youth Protection,”
3. “Fast Start,” and
4. “This Is Scouting”

The courses have been updated to support the new Cub Scout Delivery Method rolled out earlier this year. Now, den leaders and assistants, Cubmasters and assistants, pack trainers, and pack committee chairs and members can now learn the how-to’s for suc-cessfully conducting an engaging den and pack program and can become confident in the role each plays.

Online training is also available by clicking the link: www.scouting.org. When entering www.MyScouting.org, click on the E-Learning link under the Training header located on the left-side menu. Then click on the Cub Scouts tab and voila!... all leader training is at your convenience.
If you do not have a MyScouting account, there are simple instructions on the landing page that will help you create one.

In addition to the opportunity for online training, all four Cub Scout leader courses are supported by a printed syllabus, some with a DVD, to assist council and district training teams in conducting instructor-led experiences. The catalog number for this resource is 34875.
For questions or concerns regarding MyScouting accounts, send an email to the National Service Desk at: MyScouting@scouting.org. All issues will be addressed as soon as possible in order to get users online and fully trained!

Religious Awards
A key point of the Scout Law is that a Scout is reverent. The Boy Scouts of America and PRAY have an extensive program for our Cub Scouts and Boy Scouts to earn religious recognitions in every faith. Please click here to visit PRAY and have access to all of the most current information or contact Maryellen at 914-773-1135 ext 234 or mgalinski to learn how to earn the religious award of your faith.

Read All About Camp Read
“For Joys We’ll Ne’er Forget”, relates the story of the Curtis S. Read Scout Reservation from its opening day in 1920 to the present. For most part, “For Joys….” was written by staff who were in camp. Chapters features two legendary Camp Rangers, the launching of Camp Waubeeka, the impact of Read on professional Scouting, profiles of outstanding camp leaders, the story of the Oder of the Arrow in camp, history of the Camp Read Association, and much more.

Travel through time as this nearly one hundred year old camp grew from its beginnings on 33 acres and 20 campers on Long Pond, in Mahopac, New York to a 1000 acre scout reservation in the Adirondack Mountains. Today the Curtis S. Read Scout Reservation is made up of three camps, one traditional scout camp, one patrol cooking camp, and a High Adventure Base.
“For Joys We’ll Ne’er Forget” was commissioned by the Camp Read Association to preserve the history of this very special place. If you were ever a camper or staff member at a Scout camp, you’ll find yourself right at home in the pages of this book. It is a story worth telling and one worth reading…………..!

To Order: www.CampRead-ForJoys.com

Also available in the Read Scout Reservation trading posts.

All proceeds from “For Joys We’ll Ne’er Forget” will go to the betterment of the Curtis S. Read Scout Reservation, Westchester-Putnam Council, Boy Scout of America.

Webelos to Boy Scouts Transition Progress
The passage by 5th grade Webelos from the Cub Scout Pack to the Boy Scout Troop should be smooth, with no time lost in between. By the time Webelos Scouts are ready to crossover, they and their families should be familiar and comfortable with the youth and adult leaders of the Troop, their role in the Troop, and upcoming activities, bringing a feeling of excitement about beginning this new adventure. The Webelos Scout’s graduation ceremony should clearly signify his transition to a new level of Scouting, and could include the presentation of his Arrow of Light Award, a Boy Scout Handbook, and a Troop neckerchief.

A Webelos Scout who has earned the Arrow of Light Award has now completed all the requirements for the Scout badge and may join a Boy Scout Troop. The key factor to improved Webelos transition is the ongoing working relationship of the leaders of a Cub Scout Pack and a Boy Scout troop.

Responsibilities for the transition process:
Responsibilities of the Pack

Develop a working relationship with the leadership of one or more Boy Scout Troops in the area to work on some combined activities and events in the fall and early winter. These can include a fall camping trip, a community event, or possibly an early winter Boy Scout summer camp information night attended by both the Webelos Scout and his parent.
Work with Troop leaders to secure Den Chiefs.
Work with Troop leaders to plan visits to troop meetings.
Invite the Scoutmaster and Troop youth leaders to special Pack activities.
Plan a meaningful crossover ceremony at the Pack’s Blue and Gold Banquet. Include Troop leaders to be present to accept Webelos Scout as they graduate to Boy Scouting.
Webelos leaders should be strongly encouraged to move into the Troop with the boys, either as assistant Scoutmasters or troop committee members.

Responsibilities of the Troop

Select Scouts to serve as Den Chiefs for each Webelos Scout den and Cub Scout den.
Serve as a resource for overnight activities. The troop can be of service to provide equipment, leadership and logistics for Webelos parent-son campouts.
Conduct an orientation in the Bear Cub Scout dens to explain the changing role as boys become Webelos Scouts and then again as they become Boy Scouts. Explain how being a Webelos Scout will help prepare them for Boy Scouting.
Webelos den/Scout troop campouts should show Webelos Scouts and their parents what to expect when they move into the troop. The troop should cook and camp by patrol, and use skills that the Webelos Scouts can participate in.
Arrange for Webelos dens to visit a troop meeting. This should be planned several weeks in advance.
Provide each Webelos Scout a copy of the troop’s activities for the upcoming year.
Work with Webelos den leaders to encourage them to plan to move into the troop with their Webelos Scouts and to serve either as committee members or assistant Scoutmasters.
Conduct a Scoutmaster conference under the guidance of the Scoutmaster or the assistant designated by the Scoutmaster.
Work with the Cubmaster in planning a meaningful crossover ceremony at the pack’s Blue and Gold Banquet. Arrange for each Webelos Scout to receive a troop neckerchief and/or Scout Handbook along with his Arrow of light Award.

Responsibilities of the Webelos Parent

Be engaged in your Webelos Scout’s progress on earning the Arrow of Light. Realize that some of the requirements involved becoming oriented and prepared to join a Scout troop.
Become familiar with the objectives and the methods of the Boy Scouting program.
Learn how Scouting builds values and how the 12 traits that make up the Scout Law read like every parent’s wish list for their children.
Learn how Scouting sets expectations of cooperation, respect and goodwill, all success factors in helping build lifelong personal and family values by reinforcing ethical standards.
Attend a visit with your son to a Boy Scout troop meeting and meet the leadership of the troop.
Attend the Webelos Scout parents’ orientation and camp promotion night with your Webelos Scout to learn about the Boy Scout troop, 2008 spring plans, activities, and its summer camp plans so your son will be able to participate.
Be willing to participate as a Scout parent on the troop committee or to support its programs and activities as needed.

Weekend Camping
At The Durland Scout Reservation & Read Scout Reservation

Reservations are being accepted for short term (weekend) camping at both the Durland and Read Scout Reservations. Cabins and a variety of tent sites are available at Durland, as are the Farmhouse and Handicraft Lodge at Read. Tent site fees are $40 for a weekend. The weekend cabin fees at Durland are $225 for a building with a capacity of 40 people, and $190 for a structure with a capacity of 30 people. The cabins all have electricity, running hot and cold water at the kitchen sink, refrigerator and electric stoves. A $75 damage deposit is required to rent a building. Due to the popularity of the cabins and tent sites, no phone reservations can be accepted. All fees and paperwork must be received at the Council Service Center to complete your reservation. Forms are available below.

Available Cabins in the Next Four Months

Weekend Number of Available Cabins

May 31-June 2, 2013
4

June 14-16, 2013
5

June 21-23, 2013
7

Weekend programs available for all units at Durland include orienteering, hiking our 16 miles of marked trails and, conditions permitting, snow shoeing and ice fishing. During warmer weather, Scout units with adults currently trained in Safety Afloat can use the canoes and kayaks. Both lakes on the reservation have excellent populations of largemouth bass.

Short Term Camping Application
View Current Reservations
Durland Scout Reservation Facilities
Read Scout Reservation Facilities

Important Information About Planning A Unit Event!
When a unit needs to use the facilities or property of another entity there is usually a written contract that spells out the duties and responsibilities of each party, along with a request for an insurance certificate. When the unit is planning an event, they should ask the other party for a copy of their contract or facility use agreement before negotiations begin. This should be forwarded to the Council office for review and signature. Unit representatives should not sign the contract. Upon approval, the signed contract will be sent back to the unit with the appropriate insurance certificate, if applicable. This is not something we are able to provide on a walk-in basis; your unit should plan ahead by at least two weeks time to have this process completed. Thank you for your understanding.

Make Sure Your Volunteers Are Registered!
When training entries are being made in the Westchester-Putnam Council’s records and in Scoutnet, the BSA national database, it is being discovered that there are many persons who are not registered in Scouting. While the training provides excellent preparation for adult leaders, the training cannot be recorded or acknowledged if you are not registered.

Additionally, when a volunteer is not registered they are not receiving the full benefits of service from the Westchester-Putnam Council. These benefits include, the Pathfinder and important communications on upcoming Council/District activities as well as notice for training opportunities. It is important that each adult who is working with young people be registered in Scouting and that their appropriate registration be the role that they primarily serve.

Please help us insure that all adults are registered. The quality delivery of Scouting is enhanced when this step is taken.

God and Country Awards for Protestant Youth
Programs of Religious Activities with Youth (PRAY) is a not-for-profit organization whose national board of directors includes representatives from Protestant and independent Christian churches and the national youth agencies including the Boy Scouts of America. PRAY is best known for the God and Country religious awards program. This program helps young people to develop a deeper relationship with God and to understand how God is active in their lives and in the world around them. It is a Christian education resource that uses Bible lessons paired with service projects to help young people not only to grow in Christian faith but to also express their faith by reaching out in love and in service to others. PRAY encourages families, youth agencies, and protestant congregations to use the God and Country series to foster spiritual growth in children, youth and families.

The God and Country series of programs and awards are available to youth whether or not they are involved in a Scouting program.

The series is comprised of:
God and Me (grades 1-3) God and Family (grades 4-5) God and Church (grades 6-8) and God and Life (Grades 9-12) The God and Country program is recognized by over 20 different Protestant denominations and independent Christian churches.

Starting the Program is Easy!
• Order the appropriate program booklet based on your grade.
• Meet with the pastor of a church and show the pastor the God and Country booklet and then together choose a counselor.
• Present your work to the pastor for final approval. Order the recognition items by sending the application form to PRAY
• Plan a special ceremony in church to receive your award.

There are resources for promotion at the Unit level including brochures and a power point presentation. For further information about the God and Country program and additional resources please contact PRAY by calling 1-800-933-PRAY or by email at praypraypub.org.

Conservation Resource Guide
Conservation is a basic part of the BSA mission. Scouting embraces Leave No Trace, requires conservation-related activities for rank advancement, and encourages conservation service projects to the community. The new Conservation Resource Guide identifies Westchester-Putnam agencies engaged in nature and conservation activities. Organized by District, the Guide is intended to enable ‘one-stop’ access for any Westchester-Putnam Scouts and Scouters seeking sites for troop conservation projects, nature-related advancements, or outdoor activities (including William Hornaday Award, Leave No Trace Award, Boy Scout Rank Advancement Nature Requirements, and Eagle Service Projects).

Rockefeller State Park Preserve
Westchester-Putnam Council Webelos and Cub Scout dens are encouraged to contact Mike Rogers, Environmental Educator at the Rockefeller State Park Preserve, on Routes 117 and 9 in Tarrytown, to arrange visits to fulfill various Cub and Webelos rank requirements. He can be contacted at 914-631-1470, x14, or mark.rogersoprhp.state.ny.us.

Mr. Rogers suggests that Boy Scouts who need to participate in approved Second Class, Star, Life and Eagle service projects should also contact him.

Unit Rechartering Now Available Online
Your unit can recharter on-line now. Please contact the council service center for your password.

On-line Rechartering

National Jewish Committee on Scouting Scholarship Awards
Chester M. Vernon Memorial Eagle Scout Scholarship Program. The recipient of the Chester M. Vernon Memorial Eagle Scout Scholarship will receive a $1,000 scholarship per year for four years. Applicants must demonstrate financial need.

Florence and Marvin Arkans Eagle Scout Scholarship Program. The recipient of this scholarship will receive a one-time $1,000 scholarship. Applicants must demonstrate financial need.

Frank L. Weil Memorial Eagle Scout Scholarship Program. The recipient of the Frank L. Weil Memorial Eagle Scout Scholarship will receive a $1,000 scholarship. Two second-place scholarship awards will be given in the amount of $500 each.

Gideon Elad Scholarship Program. The recipient of this scholarship will receive a one-time $1,000 scholarship.

Eligibility Requirements

Vernon, Arkans, and Weil Scholarships
The eligible applicant must:

Be a registered, active member of a Boy Scout troop, Varsity Scout team or Venturing crew.
Have received the Eagle Scout Award.
Be an active member of a synagogue and must have received the Ner Tamid or Etz Chaim religious emblem.
Have demonstrated practical citizenship in his synagogue, school, Scouting unit, and community.
Be enrolled in an accredited high school and in his final year at the time of selection.
Submit at least four letters of recommendation with the nomination application. One letter is required from leaders of each of the following groups: religious institution, school, community, and Scouting unit.

Gideon Elad Scholarship
The eligible applicant must:

Be an active member of a Boy Scout troop or Varsity Scout team.
Have received the Eagle Scout Award.
Be an active member of a synagogue and have received the Ner Tamid or Etz Chaim religious emblem.
Have demonstrated practical citizenship in his synagogue, school, Scouting unit, and community.
Be enrolled in an accredited public high school and in his final year at the time of selection.
Submit at least four letters of recommendation with the nomination application. One letter is required from leaders of each of the following groups: religious institution, school, community, and Scouting unit.

The National Jewish Committee on Scouting (NJCS) will award a national scholarship to the Eagle Scout who best meets the qualifications outlined in the nomination application. Applications are available at the Council Service Center.

Attention All Eagle Scout Candidates
Members of the Westchester-Putnam Council Executive Board would like to have representatives at as many Eagle ceremonies as possible. Therefore, please send an appropriate invitation to members of the Westchester-Putnam Council Executive Board to the attention of Marian Post @ Westchester-Putnam Council, B.S.A., 41 Saw Mill River Road, Hawthorne, NY 10532. Invitations/information received will be communicated to Executive Board members, and RSVP’s will be made if they plan to attend. Congratulations on the achievement of Scouting’s highest rank and best wishes for a wonderful ceremony and Eagle Scout presentation.

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