June 7, 2010

Recently, the Boy Scouts of America announced important changes to its Youth Protection policies. The purpose of these changes is to increase awareness of this societal problem and to create even greater barriers to abuse than already exist today in Scouting.

Effective June 1, 2010:

Youth Protection training is required for all BSA registered volunteers, regardless of their position.
New leaders are required to take Youth Protection training before submitting an application for registration. The certificate of completion for this training must be submitted at the time the application is made and before volunteer service with youth begins.
Youth Protection training must be taken every two years. If a volunteer's Youth Protection training record is not current at the time of recharter, the volunteer will not be reregistered.
To find out more about the Youth Protection policies of the Boy Scouts of America and how to help Scouting keep your family safe, see the Parent's Guide in any of the Cub Scouting or Boy Scouting handbooks, or go to http://www.scouting.org/Training/YouthProtection.aspx.

Questions and Answers

The following are answers to some of the questions we have received about these important changes. To read more, visit www.scouting.org/youthprotection.

Last weekend, Scouts from the Cherokee Area Council honored veterans by placing flags on graves at the National Cemetery. Here is a video created by Scout parent David Cox.

The Cherokee Area Council is developing a color guard to present colors at events in our area. If you are a Scout or know a Scout that would be interested in participating in this activity, please contact Blaine Tornow.

October 28, 2009

Dear Friend:

Don't miss out on this once in a life-time opportunity to celebrate 100 years of Scouting in America.
When: January 22nd-23rd 2010, 9:30 PM – 7:00 AM
Where: Hamilton YMCA, 7430 Shallowford Road
Who: all Cub Scouts, Boy Scouts, Venturers, Explorers, Leaders, and Parents

The National BSA web site has a page with Tour Permit frequently asked questions (FAQs). Check it out here:

http://www.scouting.org/en/HealthandSafety/TourPermitFAQ.aspx

The Mountain District 2009 Pinewood Derby is scheduled for April 4th at Daisy Church of God. You can download the rules below.

The Spring camporee is scheduled for April 17-19 at Camp Columbus. The theme this year is Scout Olympics. Tour permits are required to attend the camporee. Registration is required by March 23rd and the cost is $10.00 per Boy Scout. All Mountain District Webelos Scouts and Cub Scout Leaders are invited to attend the Mountain District Boy Scout Camporee on Saturday April 18, 2009 at Camp Columbus, FREE of charge.  For more information, download the camporee brochure below.

 The BSA has replaced the class 1, 2, and 3 health forms with a new form that is updated annually. The forms are available here:

• Prints on 8.5 x 11 paper
• Prints on 11 x 17 paper

The aims of the Boys Scouts of America are to develop character, citizenship, and personal fitness (including mental, spiritual, and physical fitness) in today’s youth. All activities – including den, pack, troop or crew meeting programs, adult training events or committee meetings, camp programs and campfire programs contribute to the aims of Scouting.