GREATER ALABAMA COUNCIL, BOY SCOUTS OF AMERICA/LEARNING FOR LIFE,  INC
 
www.1bsa.org
 
March 8th, 2010 
 
IMPORTANT INFORMATION, MEETINGS AND DATES TO REMEMBER
 
Office Hours: Monday - Friday 8:30am until 5:00pm
 
Main Phone 205-970-0251 Fax 205-970-0349
 
Northern Area Service Center 256-883-7071 
 
Birmingham Scout Shop 205-967-5954
 
Huntsville Scout Shop 256-880-1488 or 877-880-1488  
 

 

 

  
 
 What's Happening (next four weeks)  
  
COUNCIL RECOGNITION RECEPTION - The Greater Alabama Council’s Recognition Reception will be Friday, March 12 at 6:00 at the Gardendale Mt. Vernon United Methodist Church.  This event is open to all Scouts, Scouters and the public at no charge.  The Silver Beaver, the highest award a Council can present to a volunteer, as well as other Council-level awards will be presented that night. This will be a great event that you do not want to miss!  To view the Council Recognition Reception Fact Sheet or see the names of the 2009 Silver Beaver recipients, Click Here
 
 
SCOUT DAY AT SPACE AND ROCKET CENTER - Saturday, March 13th.  Pre-registration due today, March 8th.  Click for more information.
 
VOLUNTEER MEETING WITH SCOUT EXECUTIVE - In an effort to improve communications and receive input on the direction of the council, eight meetings are planned for volunteers to visit with Scout Executive Tim Cooper on these and other topics. Tim will cover the updated plans for the council long range plans along with plans for our property development in the next few years.  These meetings are open to current registered leaders and Scouting parents. All Cubmasters, Scoutmasters and Venture Crew leaders are encouraged to share this information with your unit leaders and parents and encourage them to attend and be involved in this process.  We are expecting these meeting to be 1 ½ hours long, but the meeting will last as long as volunteers want to give input on the direction of the council. Please email or call Tommie Black, tblack@1bsa.org or 205-969-4241 to confirm your attendance.  To view the meeting(s) in your area, click here.
 
BEAVER DAY AT CAMP SEQUOYAH - Saturday, March 13th
 
OA AMERICAN INDIAN SEMINAR - March 19-21 at Camp Comer.  Go to www.coosa50.org for more information.
 
COUNCIL OFFICES CLOSED - The council offices will be closed on Good Friday, April 2nd.
 
 
 
 
 Events, Activities, and Information 
 
UNIVERSITY OF SCOUTING - Congratulations and well done to Chancellor Irvin Brown and all the dedicated volunteers that made Saturday's University of Scouting a great event.
 
PHONE UPGRADES - Improvements continue to the Birmingham office phone system.  Kieth Wycoff now has a direct access line: 205-970-1160.
 
GOOD TURN FOR AMERICA - For a youth member in the Greater Alabama Council to earn the Good Turn for America Award a Cub Scout must complete a service project of at least two hours and a Boy Scout or Venturer a service project of at least five hours.  Hours do not have to be consecutive.  To log the hours go to www.goodturnforamerica.org.
 
RENEW OUR RIVERS - Alabama Power is now offering a patch to any Boy Scout who participates in a Renew Our Rivers clean-up.  For more information, and a schedule of clean-ups, click here.
 
DISTRICT TRAINING SUMMARY - This is a summary of training scheduled at the district level throughout the council.  More information is available in the host district's section:
SCOUT NIGHT WITH THE HUNTSVILLE STARS - The Huntsville Stars present Scout Night. Camp under the stars with The Stars! Friday, May 7th, 2010.  For more information, or to register, click here.
 
PINEWOOD DERBY- Do you need help conducting a Pinewood Derby Workshop for your Pack?  If so, contact John Vagner @ the Scout Shop for details & scheduling  at 205-967-5954. This is a great opportunity to have a more personalized workshop for your Cub Scouts.
 
The 2010 Greater Alabama Council Pinewood Derby is scheduled for May 8 at the Riverchase Galleria in Hoover.  Weigh-In and race times will be determined closer to that date.   First through Third Place District winners by rank will be invited to participate.  Trophies will be awarded in the Tiger, Cub and Webelo Divisions for both Speed and Show categories for First through Third Place.    Look for more information in the near future.
 
While each District has the autonomy to set their own Derby’s rules, Click Here for the Official 2010 Greater Alabama Council Pinewood Derby Rules
    
 
CHIEF ZACK CROSS - Cross was an ordinary man from Bessemer, Alabama who served as a rising tide in the lives of men all over Alabama, the United States, and in distant countries. Chief trained boys who eventually became leaders in numerous professions. Now get your copy of Chief, a biography of Zack Cross. Copies of the book can be purchased at The Greater Alabama Council or through mail. Cost is $19 (+ $3 shipping & handling if mailed). Click here for more details and order form.
 
YOUTH IMPACT PLAN - During the last council anual business meeting, the board approved  the Youth Impact Plan, which sets several goals including:
          *  Doubling the number of youth served over the next five years
          * Training all adult leaders within 90 days of assuming a leadership position
          * Increased participation in district and council events
 
HIGH ADVENTURE OPPORTUNITIES:
  • NORTHERN TIER - Troop 21, Bluffpark, has openings for Boy Scouts and adults for their scheduled a trip to Northern Tier, out of Bisset (includes the sea plane ride to the put in).  Departure from Birmingham will be on June 29 with return July 11, 2010.  Transportation is by Troop bus.  Individuals or a group to form a crew are welcome.  The cost is $1000, or less, at this time. Call Larry Young at 205- 901-2063 for more information.
  • PHILMONT - A troop in Vulcan District has openings for two Scouts or Scouters.  For more informaion, contact Brent Pritchard at bpritchard@1bsa.org or 226-4248.
  • SEA BASE - The council has a Munson Island Adventure July 27th - August 2nd for four Scouts or Venturers, and 2 adults.  Cost is $ 700 plus transportation to/from Sea Base.  If interested contact Vince Lambert at vlambert@1bsa.org or 205-969-4260.
 
DAY CAMP 2010 - “ON MY HONOR”...These words mean a lot in Scouting.  This is also the theme for Day Camp 2010.  Sign up now to be part of the fun, excitement and adventure of Cub Scout Day Camp.  There will be lots of wonderful activities for Cub Scouts across the Council.  To view or download the flier and registration form, click here.
 
WOOD BADGE 2010 – There will be one opportunity for 48 adult leaders to participate in Wood Badge next year. The course will be conducted September 17-19 at Camp Comer, and October 15-17 at Camp Jackson. Cost is $200. For more information, or to request an invitation to attend, Click Here.
 
EAGLE BOARD OF REVIEW INFORMATION - Effective January 1, 2010 the Greater Alabama Council will go to a standard procedure for verifying Eagle Scout references.  This decision was based on a vote by the Council Advancement Committee and review by the Council Executive Committee to ensure consistency with the Eagle advancement process.  Each District will designate who receives the letters after they are completed, either the District Advancement Chair, a designee, or a member of the respective Troop Committee.  The letter should not go to the Scout but may be released to the Scout after the Board of Review if the writer of the letter so designates.  To view or download the new form, Click Here.
          
  
NATIONAL JAMBOREE - Greater Alabama Council still has openings for about 45 more Scouts who will be First Class and at least 12 but not yet 18 next summer to attend the National Jamboree celebrating 100 years of Scouting in the United States.  Check out www.bsajamboree.org for more information.
 
SUMMER CAMP 2010 :
  • Registration is now open for summer camp 2010.  Make sure your troop is part of a great summer at Camp Comer or Camp Sequoyah.  Click Here for a camp reservation form.
  • Camp Comer - Weeks 1 - 4 are at capacity. No additional registrations will be accepted for these weeks (June 6 - July 3).
  • Camp Sequoyah - Weeks 1 -  3 are at capacity. No additional registrations will be accecpted for these weeks (June 6 - June 26 ).
  • REMINDER: The first payment of $ 75 per Scout was due by Friday, February 12th.  This payment is non-refundable (except in the case of serious illness, immediate family tragedy, summer school or family re-location) but transferable from one Scout to another.
  • Leaders Guides are complete, and posted on the website for each camp.
  • STAFF NEEDED: Adult staff are needed for Climbing, Aquatics, Shooting Sports and Dining Hall, and top-notch youth staff are always welcome.  Click here for a staff application.
  • On-Line Class Sign-up:  The new on-line system is being reviewed/tested.  It should be operational soon.
 
SMALLBORE CHAMPIONSHIP-  The 1st Annual  BSA / Greater Alabama Council Smallbore Championship will be held on May 8, 2010 at Brock's Gap Training Center, Inc. in Hoover, AL.  To participate, scouts must have earned their Rifle Merit Badge before the date of the event.  Equipment, firearms and ammunition will be provided.  Scouts will also have an opportunity to try their hand at shotgun shooting at the event.  For more information see the attached program or visit the www.scssa.org or the "EVENTS" page of our junior club at www.shelbyshootingsports.org
 
ALABAMA BOY SCOUT TAG -  Join us in celebrating the 100th Anniversary of Boy Scouts by purchasing a Boy Scout license tag. It is a great way to support the Scouting programs and your community. The proceeds from the tag will be returned to your local Boy Scout Council. Click Here for more information on how to get the Alabama Boy Scout Tag. To simplify the process, Greater Alabama Council can now process your request for you.  Simply go the Birmingham or Huntsville office, complete a Limited Power-of-Attorney form, and submit a copy of your current tag registration and your $ 50 payment, and the council staff will do the rest.
 
CUB LUAU 2010 - April 16-18 and 23-25 mark the dates for Cub Luau!  You don’t want to miss this great spring Cub activity.  An entire weekend of fun and excitement for a Cub and adult partner is only $55.00.  It will be a Polynesian paradise at Camp Comer so make plans to attend one or both sessions.  To view the flier or for more information click here.
 
CUB ACTIVITY HEALTH FORMS - The new BSA Health Forms are required for all events less than 72 hours.  This includes events such as Cub Luau, Alabama Adventure, and Cub Haunted Weekends.  Sections A and C must be completed.  This does not require a visit to a healthcare provider to be completed if the event is less than 72 hours.  To obtain the Health Form, go to the forms library section of the council website (www.1bsa.org). 
 
2008 EAGLE SCOUT CLASS - The names of the 2008 Eagle Scout Class have been engraved on the Eagle Wall Plaza at the Liberty Park complex.  All are welcome to come and view the names of this and all other Eagle classes.
 
SCUBA OPPORTUNITIES - Boy Scouts -- SCUBA merit badge is now available.  Venturers --SCUBA instructions and outings are available.  Interested?  Click here for more information.
  
100TH ANNIVERSARY SERVICE PROJECT – The Greater Alabama Council is partnering with the Salvation Army Food Bank to collect canned and non-perishable food items to help the less fortunate in our community. This will be the official service project for the Council’s 100th Anniversary Celebration. The drive will begin in the fall of 2009 and end in February 2010. For more information, Click Here.
 
VENTURING AND EXPLORING ADVISORS: “Looking to add some excitement to your annual program?” - The Greater Alabama Council has answered many of your request and recommendations by including a total of Seven (7) fun filled events to the council’s annual program calendar for all Venturers and Explorers. If your Crew or Post would like to sign up for one or several of the events included in the attachment (Venturing / Exploring) , please complete the registration form by the due date and submit to the Charles T. Clayton Service Center located at 516 Liberty Parkway, Birmingham Alabama 35242. However, if you have additional questions or concerns or would like for one of our Executives to make a special presentation to your unit please contact Billy Curtis, Council Exploring Executive at 205-969-4277 or email wcurtis@1bsa.org. This is going to be quite an adventure, don’t miss it!
 
REGISTRATION FEE INCREASE - The National Executive Board unanimously passed a resolution at its May 2009 meeting to increase traditional membership annual registration fee for youth and adults from $10 to $15 effective January 1, 2010. The annual Exploring fee will remain $10. ALL REGISTRATION FEES go directly to the National Council. No registration fees remain with local Councils.  For more information, Click Here.
 
COUNCIL PLANS TO CONDUCT WEBELOS RESIDENT CAMP - The Greater Alabama Council is planning to conduct a Webelos Resident Camp July 11-14, 2010 at Camp Comer.  Cost is $105.00 for all Webelos and the first leader with a minimum of four Webelos is free.  All additional adults are $40.00.  All interested parties are encouraged to sign up their Webelos as well consider volunteering to be on staff.  A minimum of 85 Webelos and sufficient volunteer staff (which will be determined by the Council’s Cub Scout Committee) must be registered by June 15 for the camp to be conducted.  Those interested in serving on staff need to complete the Adult Volunteer Form (Page 17 of the Guide) and submit it by fax to Jeff Brasher at 205-970-0349.  The Cub Scout Committee will determine the final staff selections.    There will be separate programs for Webelos I and II.  The first-year Webelos will concentrate on Activity Pins while the second-year Webelos will participate in an Outback Adventure concentrating on outdoor and woodcraft skills.  Both programs will be fun, exciting and full of adventure.  There will be lots of good food and activities.  To view the Leader’s Guide, Click Here.
 
WILDERNESS FIRST AID - The Birmingham Red Cross chapter will be conducting a Wilderness First Aid course  Mar 13 and 14.   For more information, contact Valerie Bonifay at 205-458-8247.  
 
WOOD BADGE SCHOLARSHIP FUND -  We are receiving donations in memory of Margie Keener, mother of Lisa Sullivan.  The family has requested the memorials go for a Wood Badge scholarship; therefore, we have established an account for the Margie Keener Wood Badge Scholarship.  If you would like to make a donation as a memorial for Margie Keener please take/send it to either council service center and indicate on the donation it is for the Margie Keener Wood Badge Scholarship.
 
ON-LINE TRAINING - The BSA's on-line learning center has many training courses for new leaders, and experienced leaders as well.  For example, This Is Scouting (which replaced New Leader Essentials), Fast Start, and Youth Protection Training are all available on-line. These courses are available to everyone (leaders and parents), but you must first have an account on www.myscouting.org to access the training.  For more detailed instructions on how to get trained on-line, Click Here
 
EAGLE PROJECT WORKBOOK AND APPLICATION - There have been several questions the last few days about the new Eagle Project Workbook and Application.  The 2009 application goes into effect immediately.  No prior printings will be accepted by the National Office.  As far as the workbooks, those prior to the 2009 edition that already have the four “Approval Signatures for Project Plan” (Religious institution, school or community representative; Unit Committee Member; Scoutmaster/Coach/Advisor; and Council or District Advancement Committee Member) in place and completed on the workbook application will be accepted and “grandfathered” by the National Office.  Those project workbooks without these four signatures completed will need on the 2009 edition.   Both forms can be found in the Council Service Centers, www.1bsa.org or www.nesa.org. 
 
CAMP USE PERMITS -  Camp Use Permits are used to notify the council and the camp ranger staff of your unit/group's intent to use camp property, and any special requirements you may have.  They should be submitted at least two weeks prior to arrival at camp to allow the ranger staff sufficient time to schedule necessary maintenance, arrange program items and respond to any specific requests.  One form (Click Here for sample forms) is for Camps Comer, Sequoyah, Jackson and Westmoreland;  a separate form is used for Camp Jack Wright to meet the requirements of Tannehill State Park.
 
SCOUTING INFORMATION ON THE WEB - A wide range of Scouting information is available to all volunteers by looking at www.Scouting.org. From training to definitions on Scouting and other information on a national level can be attained from this website.  Everyone is encouraged to go to www.Scouting.org. along with the Greater Alabama Council’s website at www.1bsa.org to attain more information on Scouting you might need.
 
VENTURING OFFICER ASSOCIATION -  Make sure your Crew is represented at the Venturing Officers Association meeting the third Sunday afternoon of each month at 2 pm at St Pauls Lutheran Church in Cullman, AL.  Each Crew should be represented by the Crew President and one other crew member of your choice.
 
LIMITED EDITION CENTENNIAL COUNCIL STRIPS - The silver bordered Centennial Council strips are SOLD OUT.  However there are still plenty of gold and tri-color bordered CSP’s available for purchase.  These make a fantastic gift for your favorite Scout or Scouter.  They are also great “trade” items for events like the National Jamboree, Conclaves, etc.  Make sure you get some today before they are all sold out.  Contact Kieth Wycoff at 205-970-0251 or visit the Clayton Scout Service Center to place your order.
 
HARLEM GLOBETROTTERS TICKETS - The Harlem Globetrotters will be appearing at the Pete Hanna Center at Samford University on Thursday, March 11 at 7:00.  To order reduced rate Scout tickets, Click Here.  Ticket deadline extended until tomorrow, March 9th.
 
  
 
 District News
 
ARROWHEAD(Serving Cullman, Lawrence, Limestone, and Morgan Counties)
 
2009 CENTENNIAL QUALITY DISTRICT
 
District Executive: Garet Beane GBeane@1bsa.org Cell-256-520-3343
Arrowhead District Website:http://groups.yahoo.com/group/arrow_web/
  
UPCOMING EVENTS-
 
DISTRICT PINEWOOD DERBY- Saturday, March 13th at St. Paul Lutheran Church in Decatur, (1700 Carridale Street SW. Decatur, AL) Registration 9am-10:30am, Racing will start at 10:45am. Scout must be present to race. We need adults to help. For each Pack that participates, at least one adult must help. You can help set up on Friday night before the race or that morning. No experience necessary. Contact Keith Ramey at 256-351-8455 or Keithramey@bellsouth.net. Categories will be Show and Speed. 
 
RECHARTER- Below Recharter packets are PAST DUE!
Units that are still missing Recharters are:
Packs: 4200, 05, 31, 34, 77, 91, 333, 335, and 306.
Troops: 4200, 31, 226, 241, 335, 352, and 456.
Crew: 25, and 321.
I want to thank all units that got this done on time. All the units above please call me at 256-520-3343 to set up a time to go over your recharter paperwork and/or turn it in at the Huntsville office. If you are a new Pack/Troop that started in the last couple of weeks, this will not apply to you until the end of 2010.
 
ROUNDTABLE- Please note, the April Roundtable will not be April 1st due to Good Friday and conflicts with the church. April Roundtable will be April 8th at 7pm at Central Baptist in Decatur.  All Troops, Packs and Crews should have a representative at each Roundtable. Roundtables are the first Thursday of every month.
 
We need your dates for BLUE & GOLD AND COURT OF HONORS- Thank you to Steve Harper for helping contact all Packs about this. Every Pack and Troop should have a yearly Blue and Gold Banquet or Court of Honor. Please contact me with the date, time, and location so that we can have a representative there to share in the fellowship and do a Friends of Scouting Presentation. Please send the info to GBeane@1bsa.org.
 
CULLMAN COUNTY- The Arrowhead District is thrilled to welcome Scouters from Cullman County. We are looking forward to working with you and would like you to sign up for our District e-mail list. Please send an email to arrow_web@yahoo.com or GBeane@1bsa.org with your name, unit, and email address and we will get you signed up for updates on District Activities and announcements. You should then receive an invite to join our Yahoo Group. It will be from Arrow_web. Let me know if you don’t get an invite and/or you would like to join that list.
 
DIGITAL EAGLE- Be looking out for info about the new Council Website! It has come to my attention through talking to adults at Day Camp and meetings that many of our volunteers have never heard of the Digital Eagle or our yahoo groups. Help get the word out to your Pack, Troop, or Crew about this beneficial tool. At your next meetings, pass around a sign-up sheet to get people’s email address’s and forward them on to GBeane@1bsa.org or have them go to www.1bsa.org and sign up at the bottom of the webpage.
 
ACTIVITIES:
 
SPIRIT OF AMERICA: This years Spirit of America Festival will be honoring the Boy Scouts and the 100 year anniversary of the Boy Scouts of America. Please keep this in front of your Unit and consider hosting an activity at the festival on the 4th of July. More information and a sign up sheet is in the works and will be available to the District soon.

If you have any questions concerning the Arrowhead District Activities please contact Garet Beane at GBeane@1bsa.org
 
 
“If you fail to plan, you plan to fail”
 
 
 
  
BIRMINGHAM
ScoutReach Director - Derrick Russaw drussaw@1bsa.org   
 

 
THANKS TO
Scout leaders who participated in the District Committee and Roundtable Meetings at Sixth Avenue Baptist Church on Thursday, March 4.  Exciting things are being planned for the district. 
 
Scouts from Wilson Elementary School and the Smithfield and Collegeville communities who participated in the opening flag ceremony for the American Values Luncheon  on Tuesday, March 2 at the Birmingham Civic Center. You looked so sharp carrying your flags and wearing your uniforms.
 
Scoutreach Director Derrick Russaw, Hispanic Outreach Director Ana Tucker, and VISTA workers Deborah Hudson, Kateria Edwards, and Mozella Pack for taking the time to attend the recent Multi-Cultural Training Conference for the Southern Region in Atlanta GA.  They came back excited about the things they were able to share from their experiences here in the Greater Alabama Council and the things they learned from other participants.
 
Yolanda Pleasant and Deborah Huff for serving on staff at the University of Scouting 2010 in Huntsville.  We were a little disappointed in the student turnout from Birmingham District and hope to see a large group of you in attendance next year.  New instructors are especially welcome join the staff, too.  So please, make plans to go and to learn ideas from experience scouters about ways to make your unit even better than it is now. Adult volunteers can earn Bachelor, Master, and Doctorate degrees. Boy Scouts can take classes that will lead to an Associate's degree.  If you want to know more about UoS, please contact Yolanda or Deborah.  
 
CONGRATULATIONS TO 
Everyone who has contributed to the Friends of Scouting Campaign.  We are at 86% of our goal with four months to go.  The more money we collect the more services and opportunities we can give our scouts and scouters.
 
Tremaine Fears of Cub Scout Pack 3441 at Lewis Elementary School.  Tremaine was presented a Playstation 3 game system as the incentive for being the top salesman in the recent Trails's End Popcorn Fundraiser.  
 
The scout volunteers who participated in Cubmaster Specific Leader Training lead by District Training Chair, Yolanda Pleasant, District Training Chair, at Glen Iris Elementary on Monday, March 1.  Jeff Robinett of Pack 3443  at Glen Iris and Deborah Huff of Pack 3478 at Tuggle were recognized at District Roundtable as "Trained"  cub scout leaders.
 
Cub Scout Juaquin Robinett for placing fourth in both the 25 meter free style and breast stroke at the at the 24th Annual Black History Invitational Swim, in Washington, D.C. February 12-14 2010 in Washington, D.C.   Juaquin Robinett is a 7 year old "Wolf" Cub Scout member of Pack 443 at Glen Iris Elementary School, Birmingham, AL.
 
SAVE THE DATE: 
Saturday, March 27 - Birmingham District Merit Badge Fair, Birmingham Southern College
Thursday, April 1  -  Birmingham District Committee and Roundtable Meetings
Monday, June 7- Friday, June 11 - Birmingham District Cub Scout Day Camp.
 
ALSO
Cub Families are encouraged to participate in Cub Luau for the April 17 or April 24 sessions.  You'd be surprised and pleased at how much is learned an accomplished during these adventure weekend for cub scouts and their family members.
 
Summer Camp for Boy Scouts is fast approaching. Please register your scouts as soon as possible.  This is one of the best ways for your scouts to earn a large number of badges and camping night credits in a short period of time as they travel the Trail to Eagle.
 
Its not to late to submit an application for the Scoutreach Philmont Crew for 2010.  Scouts must be at least 14 years old.    Backpacking experience is a plus but the main things are to be physically fit and having a good attitude.  We expect to announcement the crew members and leadership around April 1.  This is one of those experiences of a lifetime.
 
It's also not too late to submit an application for the National Jamboree 2010 to be held this summer in Ft. A.P. Hill, Virginia. There are plenty of slots still available.   This is another once in a life opportunity that your scout  will be glad he had a chance to take.  President Barack Obama is the Honorary President of BSA and we expect him to make a visit  to Jamboree.  Scouts and scouters who aren't selected can plan on making a day visit if in the Washington/MD/VA area during Jamboree.
 
Thanks for all you are doing to make scouting a memorable time for scouts and scouters. Remember:   Training and regular interaction with other scouts and scouters will help you on that journey.
 
For any questions or comments, please contact Derrick Russaw or Ana Tucker at the scout office.
 
 

 Birmingham District  Top Popcorn Salesman - Tremaine Fears (P3441)& VISTA Chanta Smith

 
 
 
CHEAHA
District Executive  Steven Miles smiles@1bsa.org  256-223-2999
 
 
Guys,
 
I hope that this email finds you all well this week.  We had a great weekend at the Cheaha District Pinewood Derby on Saturday.  If you missed it, you missed a great time and some great cars.  It was a blast.  Congratulations to the winners of the event.  The rank division winners will be invited to attend the Council Pinewood Derby at the Galleria in Birmingham in May.  You will receive invitations from the council for this event.  The list of winners will be listed at the Cheaha District web-site.  Please stop by and check those out.  Special thanks to Donna Hudson and Lincoln Elementary School for hosting us again this year for the Pinewood Derby. 
 
Guys, we have a lot coming up.  Scout Day at the Space and Rocket Center is on March 13.  Go and enjoy the event.  It should be fun.  We also have University of Scouting coming up this weekend at the University of Alabama at Huntsville (UAH).  Forms for this event are located at www.1bsa.org.  In April we have Cub Scout Luau and the Cheaha District Camporee.  Forms for the Cub Scout Luau are on the Cheaha District web-site located under forms.  Information regarding the camporee is also located on the web-site.  The information includes schedule of events, cub scout program guide, boy scouts program guide, and a general information page. 
 
Also coming up is the Cheaha District Day Camps.  Thanks to Sherrie Cantrell for coming to the Pinewood Derby this weekend and setting up a display table for the day camps.  Guys, this is the biggest Cub Scout event of the year.  The kids have a great time at this event and they do a lot there towards gaining belt loops and such.  Give them the opportunity.  Start collecting money now for this event so that it won't sneak up on you.  The cost of the event this year will be $90 unless you register by May 10.  If you register by May 10 you will only pay $65.  Get it done early and save $25.  Also ask about volunteering discount if you volunteer for the whole week of day camp.  Forms for the event are located on the Cheaha District web-site under the forms section. 
 
The pinewood derby this weekend was a great event.  Cub Scouts and Boy Scouts alike had a great time.  That is what Scouting is about, is having a great time.  I want to continue this effort of having fun for the sake of having fun.  In order to do that, we have to make it to the events and offer a program.  We have plenty of opportunity to offer the program.  Let's make it happen.
 
One last thing, the roundtable will be this Thursday at the Ashland Methodist Church.  We will start at 6:30 p.m. sharp.  Come earlier for a little fellowship.  Wes Patterson will have the Boy Scout program.  Tom Smith and I will have the Cub Scout program.  See you there guys.
 
Thank you for all the service you provide.  It is very much appreciated.
 
 
 
SMiles
 
 
 
 
CHEROKEE        **QUALITY DISTRICT**     
District Executive Anthony Edwards    aedwards@1bsa.org,
 
  
 
Recharter - Important! Please continue to work on your unit Recharter. If you need any help please contact Anthony Edwards at aedwards@1bsa.org
 
 
BALOO TRAINING - Cherokee District to host BALOO Training - April 3rd - Click for more details.
 
 
 
  
 
CHOCCOLOCCO             
District Executive Doug Jackson    doug@1bsa.org
 
 
 
***Thanks to everyone who came out to Quintard Mall for the PWD race and set up displays. I know we raised awareness of Scouting in the community. Here are the results:
 
 
Overall:
1. Jackson R Pack 6 Alexandria/Ohatchee
2. Bradley F. Pack 9 Golden Springs
3. Daniel B. Pack 9 Golden Springs
 
Webelo
1. Joey H. Pack 6 Alexandria/Ohatchee
2. Dusty D. Pack 6 Alexandria/Ohatchee
3. Avery S. Pack 9 Golden Springs
 
Bear
1. Clay H. Pack 10 Oxford
2. Gage H. Pack 6 Alexandria/Ohatchee
3. Will H. Pack 206 Heflin
 
Wolf
1. Tanner B. Pack 830 Weaver/Saks
2. Josh M. Pack 7 LDS
3. Hunter L. Pack 830 Weaver/Saks
 
Tiger
1. Stanley S. Pack 6 Alexandria/Ohatchee
2. Tristan V. Pack 830 Weaver/Saks
3. Harley O. Pack 203 Ranburne
 
***The 100 Tons of Food food drive- if your unit has already started collecting please give an update to Doug.
 
***It is not to early to start planning Spring recruitment! We will talk more at roundtable about this.
 
Dates
 
 
 
April 1st Roundtable
 
April 9-11 Spring Camporee
 
May 6th Roundtable
 
June 3rd Roundtable
 
June 7-11th is Day Camp at Oxford Lake Park
 
July- no roundtable
 
Doug Jackson
doug@1bsa.org
(256) 473-5511
 
 
 
 
LOOKOUT MOUNTAIN DISTRICT (SEQUOYAH – ETOWAH)
Visit our District Website by clicking here: Lookout Mountain District Website
District Executive Chad Thompson CThompso@1bsa.org Cell 256-613-3156
 
 
 
 
The submissions are in and the votes have been counted.  You have selected Lookout Mountain District as the new district name.  The name will become official after it is approved during the March 11th Board Meeting.  Congratulations to Derek Trichell of Troop 777 for submitting the winning name.
 
Round Table Change
****Round Table will start at 7 pm on Tuesday March 9th.****
We are changing the day of Round Table meetings to the 2nd Tuesday of each month.  For more information follow this link: May 9th Round Table. This change will help keep everyone on the same page.  Thanks to all for working together and understanding.
 
Unit Calendars for Website
The new District Website will include dates and times of upcoming events.  Every unit is encouraged to keep their unit calendar updated on the website to keep other units informed of the events, activities, and projects that they are participating in.  To update your calendar, please send a list of date, times, and event descriptions to Chad Thompson (cthompso@1bsa.org).  Don’t forget to include your unit number.
 
We will be holding a Fishing Camporee for Webelos and Troops on May 22nd at the Gadsden State Fish Hatchery in Gadsden.  We need troops and merit badge counselors to help out.  If you are interested in participating please contact Ken Womack at kwomack2@bellsouth.net or 256-504-3886.
 
*****We have rescheduled the Mall Show for April 24th.  This conflicts with a few other activities so we are checking to see how much interest there still is.  Please e-mail Chad if your unit would like to participate.  We need about 10 to 12 units participating to have a good show.*****
 
When: April 24th
Where: Gadsden Mall
Theme: Scouting Into the Future
Who: Lookout Mountain Boy/Cub Scouts and Girl Scouts
Deadline for Registration: March 1, 2010
 
Registration is $1.50 per Scout to cover the cost of the patch.  This will be a lot of fun, and is a great opportunity to show ourselves in the area.  For additional information regarding registration and deadlines, please contact myself (Chad Thompson, see contact info above) or Dr. George Fant (troop92george@yahoo.com).
 
Cubscout Day Camp
We will have two day camps this year.  One will be at Noccalula Falls Park on June 7 through 11.  The second one will be at Henagar City Park on June 14 through 18.  We need estimates on how many people will be attending so we can order t-shirts.  Please e-mail your unit number and attendance estimate to Chad Thompson by Monday March 8th.
 
District Time Table
Click here for the on-line calendar.  Click on any link below to learn more about that event.
Mar 8 Finance Committee Meeting at Birmingham
 
 
Mar 11 Spring Board Meeting (Birmingham)
 
 
Mar 13 Scout Day at the Space and Rocket Center
 
Mar 19 – 21 OA American Indian Seminar at Comer
 
 
 
 
 
Apr 16 – 18 Cub Luau I, OA SR-9 Conclave at Camp Tuckabatchee, Exploring Beach Blast
 
Apr 20 Central Program Area Board Meeting
 
Apr 23 – 25 Cub Luau II
 
Apr 24 Mall Show (Pending enough unit interest, please contact Chad if you are interested in participating)
 
 
Apr 30 – May 2 High Adventure Race
 
 
May 7 – 9 OA Ordeal at Comer
 
May 8 Council Pine Wood Derby
 
May 11 Round Table
 
May 14 – 16 Jamboree Shakedown, Regions Golf Classic
 
 
 
 
I appreciate all that you do towards keeping our Packs and Troops strong.  As always, please let me know if there is any way I can assist you.
 
 
Chad Thompson
District Executive
 
BOY SCOUTS OF AMERICA
Greater Alabama Council
516 Liberty Parkway
Birmingham, AL 35243
256-613-3156
  
 
 
MOUNTAIN LAKE           **QUALITY DISTRICT** 
District Executive Johnathan Lovett  jlovett@1bsa.org
 
Attention all Volunteers!!!
 
Widnerness First Aid course planned for Camp Jackson March 27-28.  For information on the Wilderness First Aid course, click here.  For more information on this specific course, or to register to attend, click here.
      
 
Thanks for everything you do to make the Mountain Lakes District one of the best in the Council!
 
YIS,
Johnathan Lovett;
Mountain Lakes District Executive; GAC, BSA
(256)609-3150
jlovett@1bsa.org
  
 
  
 
THREE RIVERS          
District Executive Brian Wilson    bwilson@1bsa.org
 
 
Please visit our new district website and facebook page at:
District Website - http://threerivers.1bsa.org
facebook – Three Rivers District GAC
 
 
Committee Events and Information   
Camping – Greg Moore rgmchop@aol.com
The Centennial Camporee
Thank you to each and every unit, leader, and support staff that helped make the Centennial Camporee such a success. Your efforts, multi-district support, and attendance all exceeded our expectations. We look forward to the same support and success as we all plan to organize and staff the district camporees this spring and fall.
 
Activities – Samantha Meadows, Chairman mesamiam@bellsouth.net
District Pinewood Derby
When: Saturday, April 10, 2010 beginning at 9:00a.m.
Where: Old Trussville Elementary School – 425 Cherokee Dr. Trussville, AL 35173
Who: Everyone involved in Scouting. You need not be the winner of your unit race, a Cub Scout, or a kid to participate in the District race. The winners of each Cub Scout rank race will advance to the Greater Alabama Council Pinewood Derby on Saturday, May 8, 2010.
Cost: $5 per entry
Registration: Details will soon be available online and in next week’s Digital Eagle
 
Day Camp
Do you have a busy schedule? Well, you have an option to attend one of TWO Day Camps in the Three Rivers District:
Day Camp Trussville
June 14 – 18, 2010
Trussville Athletic Complex
 
Day Camp in the Corridor
July 12 – 16, 2010
Sharon Heights Baptist Church
 
We are in the building stages of Day Camp 2010 – On My Honor. We have new information on how to sign up for Day Camp. Two different turn in dates have been established to have all registration forms and fees collected by the district. Please follow the guidelines to ensure that we have a great, fun, and hassle free event for your Scouts to participate in this summer. Take a visit to the district website for all camp guidelines or contact Jon Ryan at jonryan62@windstream.net for Trussville or Adam Gooch at awgooch@gmail.com for Camp in the Corridor if you are interested in participating.
 
Training – Tamara Brewer, Chairperson tamarabrewer@bellsouth.net
BALOO (Basic Adult Leader Outdoor Orientation)
When: Saturday, March 20, 2010 at 8:00a.m.
Where: Deerfoot Baptist Church
Who: Any registered leader in scouting
Why: It is a requirement for every unit to have a minimum number of BALOO Trained Leaders at every outing. You will also satisfy the new requirement to have all direct contact leaders trained before the end of 2010.
Cost: $15 (To cover the cost of supplies and food)
 
CUB SCOUT LEADER ESSENTIALS TRAINING
When: Saturday, May 22, 2010 beginning at 8:00am
Where: Deerfoot Baptist Church
Who: Any registered leader in the Cub Scout Program
Cost: $5
Deadline: Friday, May 14, 2010.  Please check out the district website beginning March 8, 2010 for the registration form. There will be no walk-up registrations available at this event.
 
IN THE SPOTLIGHT!!
 
Pinewood Derby Fun!!
 
Here is a picture from the Pack 121 Pinewood Derby.  Pack 121 is chartered through New Life Baptist Church in Odenville, AL.
      
 
Congratulations to our latest Eagle Scouts:
Joseph Ronderos – Troop 134 – Springville United Methodist Church
Justin Guffey – Troop 124 – Faith United Methodist Church Clay, AL
Matthew Campbell – Troop 197 – Chula Vista Bible Methodist Church
 
 
 
 
SHELBY         **QUALITY DISTRICT**
Senior District Executive Bart Arney barney@1bsa.org
 
 
Wow what a month in the Shelby District! Thanks to all who have welcomed me to the District! I am excited to be here.
 
University of Scouting took place this past weekend at the University of Alabama in Huntsville. I had the opportunity to meet and speak with many Shelby volunteers. Thanks to all for the great showing from our district.
 
This Friday March 12th is the Greater Alabama Council’s Recognition Reception, Gardendale/Mt. Vernon United Methodist Church at 6:30. Everyone is invited to attend this free event. Our very own Joe and Carol Kerr and A.J. Smith will be receiving the Duty to God. John Bowers and Paul Mink will be receiving the Silver Beaver. Come out and support the great volunteers from the Shelby District.
 
 
District Specific Dates:
 
March 25th           District Banquet Our Lady of the Valley Catholic Church
                            6:30 pm, cost is a $10 donation.
 
April 1st                NO Roundtable This Month