Leon Valley District Commissioner

January 2009 Roundtable Notes

 

 

It’s that time of the year! This is the time of the year when we have the largest amount of Re-Charters. Re-Charters are an important of your yearly planning. If your time is approaching, please be sure your Committee follows the guidelines as closely as possible to insure a timely turn-in date. To insure your paperwork is correct, have your Unit Commissioner, an Assistant District Commissioner, or the District Commissioner review the packet for completeness one week before turning the packet over to a Council Representative. This will allow you to gain the needed signature to qualify for "On-Time" Re-Charter and the Commissioners Award. One of the benefits of being a Commissioner's Award unit is that your unit gets $1.40 per re-chartered registered youth credited to the Scout Shop Scout Bucks. These "bucks" can be used to buy Scout rank/awards. There is a Re-Charter Training paper within the files on my blog space.

 

"OA ELECTIONS ARE HERE" - HAVE YOU TROOPS CONTACT MIKE HARRISON @ mhwbbear@vvm.com or 289-3516.

 
Scout Master and Senior Patrol Leaders, Each Troop should have at least one representative at the monthly OA Meeting. Here is your guideline for that:
 
The Order of the Arrow Troop Representative or Team Representative is a youth liaison serving between the local OA lodge or chapter and his unit. In his unit, he will serve as a communication and programmatic link to and from Arrowmen, adult leaders and Scouts who are not presently members of the Order. He will do this in a fashion that strengthens the mission of the lodge, purpose of the Order and the mission of the Boy Scouts of America. By setting a good example, he will enhance the image of the Order as a service arm to his unit.

 

We now have 2 CS RT Commissioners – Lynn Klein a former leader in the District and Kathy Hefner. I am sure CS RT will become a great training tool for leaders in our District. I would like to thank those leaders who are currently serving as the CS RT Staff. Roundtable is an important facet of the training tools, especially for new leaders. This monthly meeting should have splits for the different level of leaders. The Cub Scout RT requires a staff of 5-6. Being fully staffed allows splits for Tiger, Wolf, Bear, and Webelos Leaders. There should also be a split for Cub Masters and Committee Members. This split allows for the “administrative” training for leaders.  Do not forget the Boy Scout side of the house during RT!!!

 

Boy Scouts of America celebrates another birthday next month (2/8/2009)and that means it “Blue & Gold” time for Cub Scouts!  The purpose of the blue and gold banquet is to celebrate the pack's anniversary, recognize pack leaders and other adults who have been instrumental in the pack's success, and inspire the leaders, Scouts, and parents.

 

FOS is coming too! Be sure to contact the DE and Dist. Chairman to schedule a visit to either a Pack Meeting, Blue and Gold, or Court of Honor.  

 

Retention Tips:

 

1. Be Active – Do not be passive in your meetings approach.
2. Field Trips/Outings
3. Outdoor Focus – Outdoor Focus for both Cubs, Troops, and Crews
4. Stay in Touch -- Communication
5. Summer Activities – Day Camp or Summer Camp
6. Schedule/Calendar
7. Appeal – Keep the Program activities age related

 

 

 

 

Happenings:

 

 

17 & 31 January:  Cub Trout-O-Ree at Camp Tahuaya

 

24 January: University of Scouting at St. Edwards University, Austin (http://www.bsacac.org/)

Take advantage of this great opportunity to receive a complete day of training.

 

7 February: Boy Scout and Venturing Trout Tournament

 

21 February: Webelos Woods at Camp Tahuaya

 

28 February: Klondike Derby at Camp Tahuaya

 

 

 

**Note:

 

The LVD District Dinner is approaching. Nominations for awards are due 10 February 2009.

 

 

 

 

Robert Kratzer

LVD District Commissioner

“Serving Youth of the Greater Fort Hood Area”

 

Attached is a copy of the Guide for completing the 2009 Quality Unit Form. Remember, this form is a Jan 01 2009 through Dec 31 2009 form. This procedure is NO LONGER part of the re-charter process. Please take time to complete this form and get it back to either Clifton or myself before 31 Jan 2009.
 
You can bring this completed form in "TRIPLICATE" to the Jan 09 Roundtable. Triplicate allows your Unit, the District, and the Council a copy for filing.

 

This file can be found in the Downloadable files on the "Right Margin" of the spaces page.

Hello Fellow Commissioners
 
 
I have a new way for BSA to account for  Unit Visits. Also there is an On-Line UC Fast Start! Please take time and go to this link:
 
http://www.scouting.org/commissioners.aspx
 
 
Afterwards, for Unit Visit info, click this link:
  
http://www.scouting.org/commissioners/unitvisittrackingsystem.aspx
  
You have to register with the site and complete your portion.
 
We'll go over this site at our Dist. Commissioner Mtg being held 10 Jan 2009 @ 09:00, Immanuel Lutheran. I'll bring drinks and doughnuts. Please bring your thoughts so I can take them to the Council Commisioner Cabient with me 22 Jan 09

Leon Valley District Commissioner

December 08 Roundtable Notes

 

 

Greetings Fellow Scouters! The Council Camporee was a success with 7,000 participants. It was cold and very windy! Leon Valley had great representation and I would like to thank you for attending this event. Hopefully the next Council Camporee Leon Valley will have greater representation.

 

It’s that time of the year! This is the time of the year when we have the largest amount of Re-Charters. Re-Charters are an important of your yearly planning. If your time is approaching, please be sure your Committee follows the guidelines as closely as possible to insure a timely turn-in date. To insure your paperwork is correct, have your Unit Commissioner, an Assistant District Commissioner, or the District Commissioner review the packet for completeness one week before turning the packet over to a Council Representative. This will allow you to gain the needed signature to qualify for "On-Time" Re-Charter and the Commissioners Award.

 

The District is recruiting a CS Roundtable Commissioner. This is a very important training role because this is the one time per month where leaders can find new ideas for their den meetings and pack meetings. This monthly meeting should have splits for the different level of leaders. The Cub Scout RT requires a staff of 5-6. Being fully staffed allows splits for Tiger, Wolf, Bear, and Webelos Leaders. There should also be a split for Cub Masters and Committee Members. This split allows for the “administrative” training for leaders. I would like to thank Homer Casto for stepping forward to take on the BS Roundtable Commissioner position.

 

Here is the email I had sent out regarding training:

 

The five "Southern District" are trying to put together joint training sessions. Each District would like to put together a list of possible trainers to support the training sessions. At the present time, Carol Beckom is serving as the Training Chair. If you can help with training, please let Carol, Clifton, Gordon, or myself know. You do not have to have Woodbadge to become a trainer!
 
WOODBAGERS, this would be a great opportunity to give back to Scouting! I look forward to seeing your names on the list.

 

Know of anyone who may be a great fit for the District Committee or Commissioner Service? These people do not have to be “Scouters” to operate within these areas. If you know anyone, please contact the DE or myself. The more staff available makes for a better program, and a better program means the youth have a great time Scouting.

 

 

 

 

Money Earning Projects:

 

When your Units want to conduct a "Money Earning Project" please be sure to:
 
Complete the "Unit Money-Earning Application" which must be turned into the Council Office. This can be completed by giving the application to the DE if need be.
 
When having such a project on Fort Hood, contact MWR for authorization to use any facility for such a project.

When you are using the Commissary(s) or PX(s) on Fort Hood, be sure to ask for permission from the Manager of the appropriate facility.

 

Future Activities:

 

US Cavalry Camp, Winter Camp, Twin Arrows NYLT: Dec. 27-31

 

Cub O (Orienteering) 2009: Jan 03, 2009 @ Sid Richardson, $15 by 30 Dec.

$20 afterwards.

 

Cub Scout Trout O’ Ree: Jan 17 & 31 at Camp T, $26 per person.

 

Boy Scout & Venturing Trout Tournament: Feb 7 at Camp T, $26 per person.

 

Webelos Woods: Feb 21-22 at Camp T, $20 per person

 

Klondike Derby 2009: 28 Feb Camp T

 

OA

 

The Order of the Arrow Troop Representative or Team Representative is a youth liaison serving between the local OA lodge or chapter and his unit. In his unit, he will serve as a communication and programmatic link to and from Arrowmen, adult leaders and Scouts who are not presently members of the Order. He will do this in a fashion that strengthens the mission of the lodge, purpose of the Order and the mission of the Boy Scouts of America. By setting a good example, he will enhance the image of the Order as a service arm to his unit.

 

Don't forget dues are due 31 Dec of each year. Contact Mike Harrison for an application, to renew your membership p, or provide him with your e-mail address!

 

HAPPY HOLIDAYS TO YOU AND YOURS! PLEASE STAY SAFE ON YOUR HOLIDAY TRAVELS.

 

Robert Kratzer

LVD District Commissioner

“Serving Youth of the Greater Fort Hood Area”

Leon Valley District Commissioner

Notes for the October 2008 Roundtable

 

First thing first…..A new Kratzer to be recruited into Scouting has been born. In six years he’ll be a Tiger Cub! His name is Amare Isaiah, born 3 Oct 2008 @ 22:17 hrs.

 

LVD is presently looking for a new Cub Scout Roundtable Commissioner. This is an important position in Scouting. As a RT Commissioner you assist the Training Team with a monthly training session where you share ideas with unit leaders, but serve in the Commissioner Cabinet. Help us make the scouting experience the best it can be for each youth in our District. Note: I am sure the new CSRTC will need RT Staff also!!!

 

Attending the Council Camporee being held 14-16 November at the Texas Motor Speedway? Pre-registration by 30 October with multiple fee options. See the Council website. You will find a 13 page packet for this happening. Everyone can attend, CS through Venture!

 

Re-Charter: We should be able to get every Units packet to you on time with assistance from the DE picking up the packets when visiting Waco. If you are a new leader there is a Re-Charter Guide on the District Website. Please feel free to ask a Commissioner for help!

 

Do you want to be kept up-to-date with the “Happenings” in Longhorn Council? Sign-up for “LHC News” on the Council website. This is your chance to be “in the know.”

 

Attending the Council Camporee being held 14-16 November at the Texas Motor Speedway? Pre-registration by 30 October with multiple fee options. See the Council website. You will find a 13 page packet for this happening. Everyone can attend, CS through Venture!

 

As your District Commissioner, I would like to be invited to a Parents Meeting, Pack Meeting, or Court of Honor to speak with the parents of your units. Please contact me with an invitation

 

CS Theme for November: Seeds of Kindness, Webelos Activity Badges: Craftsman, Readyman

 

BS Theme for November: High Adventure Special Note to Character

 

Lord Baden-Powell, Scouting’s founder, wrote: “A nation owes its success not so much to it strength in armaments as to the amount of character in its citizens.

 

Get a copy of the BS RT Guide Planning Guide at: http://www.scouting.org/filestore/pdf/18-941.pdf

 

Robert C. Kratzer

District Commissioner

Leon Valley District

“Serving the Greater Fort Hood Area”

 

leonvalleydistrictcommissioner@hotmail.com

 

 

 

Leon Valley District Commissioner

Notes for the September 2008 Roundtable

 

 

September is here and the new school year well on its way, High School Football in the air, and the New Scout Year is beginning. It’s a very busy time in Scouting with many happenings on the Calendar from now until Christmas. I hope your Unit takes advantage of the many opportunities to discover the outdoors with unit members and their families. Make sure your unit leadership takes advantage of Skills Training which is available throughout the Council. Training between Waco and Killeen is readily available and the schedule is posted on the District Website.

 

Cub Scout, Boy Scout, and Venture Program PDF files are available on the Leon Valley District website. Look under “Council Programs and Happenings. In the next few days if it’s not already on the website, there will be a listing of “Training” throughout the area. Do not forget you can attend training in the Capital Area Council, Austin, Texas. (http://www.bsacac.org/Index.php) University of Scouting - 01/24/2009 - St. Edwards University, Austin, Texas.

 

It’s the season of Popcorn in the Council. Knowing the dates came about too quickly, I hope everyone took advantage of the opportunity to earn money for your unit.

 

It’ almost “Re-Charter” time for the majority of the LVD. We should be able to get every Units packet to you on time with assistance from the DE picking up the packets when visiting Waco. If you are a new leader there is a Re-Charter Guide on the District Website. Please feel free to ask a Commissioner for help!

 

There are new “Applications” for both Youth and Adults. Beginning 1 September 2008 the old application will no longer be accepted. The new Adult Application has a page which needs to be filled out for a background check in reference to sexual predators.

 

There is a “New” Position in Scout Units called the “Scout Parents Unit Coordinator.” An adult registration (minimum age of 21) form along with the $10 fee is required. Registration Code is “PC”. The role of this Committee Member is:

 

ü      Assign parents to help with at least one specific task, assignment, pr project annually.

ü      Provide an orientation for all parents about how the unit works and the benefits to their family.

ü      Keep parents updated on the units’ program and their child’s involvement.

 

Unit leadership should direct the Scout Parent Unit Coordinator to ScoutParents.org for more information on the position. Training is available for the position at www.olc.scouting.org - This leader cannot double register with the following positions: CM, SM, DL, WDL, Varsity Coach, or Crew Advisor.

 

As your District Commissioner, I would like to be invited to a Parents Meeting, Pack Meeting, or Court of Honor to speak with the parents of your units. Please contact me with an invitation.

 

LVD is presently looking for a new Cub Scout Roundtable Commissioner. This is an important position in Scouting. As a RT Commissioner you assist the Training Team with a monthly training session where you share ideas with unit leaders, but serve in the Commissioner Cabinet. Help us make the scouting experience the best it can be for each youth in our District. Note: I am sure the new CSRTC will need RT Staff also!!!

 

If you have had International Scouting experience, see “International Committee” link on the Council website. There are awards you may have been able to earn while stationed overseas.

 

Do you want to be kept up-to-date with the “Happenings” in Longhorn Council? Sign-up for “LHC News” on the Council website. This is your chance to be “in the know.”

 

Attending the Council Camporee being held 14-16 November at the Texas Motor Speedway? Pre-registration by 30 October with multiple fee options. See the Council website. You will find a 13 page packet for this happening. Everyone can attend, CS through Venture!

 

2010 marks the Centennial for Boy Scouts of America. You can find Jamboree information here: http://www.bsajamboree.org/ - I hope to see you there!!

 

Special Note for the Commissioner:

 

I want every volunteer to know you are a positive influence for the youth of our community during trying times. Without you giving your time, finances, and many skills, where would out youth be? Continue doing what you do to help better train the future leaders of the United States of America. If I could thank each of you personally I would.

 

Keep this in mind: No one can pass through life, any more than he can pass through a bit of country, without leaving tracks behind, and those tracks may often be helpful to those coming after him in finding their way. (Lord Baden Powell)

 

 

Robert C. Kratzer

District Commissioner

Leon Valley District

“Serving the Greater Fort Hood Area”

 

leonvalleydistrictcommissioner@hotmailcom

 

Leon Valley District Commissioner

February 08 Roundtable Notes

 

 

Clifton Klaverweiden, DE and Robert Kratzer, DC request the contact information of Committee Chairs, Cub Masters, and one other leader of Packs, Troop’s, Crews, and Posts. This will allow us the opportunity to disseminate information to multiple personnel which in turn provides the unit with up-to-date information. Feel free to email me which in turn will give me your contact information.

 

Re-Charters are an important part of the Units yearly planning process. If your time is approaching, please be sure your Committee follows the guidelines as closely as possible to insure a timely turn-in date. To insure your paperwork is correct, have your Unit Commissioner, an Assistant District Commissioner, or the District Commissioner review the packet for completeness one week before turning the packet over to a Council Representative. This will allow you to gain the needed signature to qualify for "On-Time" Re-Charter and the Commissioners Award. One of the benefits of being a Commissioner's Award unit in 2007 is that your unit gets $1.40 per re-chartered registered youth credited to the Scout Shop Scout Bucks. These "bucks" can be used to buy Scout rank/awards. (This dollar value comes from the Mustang District Website.)  There is a 31 page Re-Charter Training paper within the files on my blog space.

 

*Special Note: The Centennial Quality Unit is no longer tied to the Re-Charter Packet. The Council wants ALL 2008 CQUA’s by 14 Feb. 2008. In turn, they have to have them all into National by 1 Mar. 08. Please contact your Units to get the needed forms completed. I have a copy of the form which can be found on BSA website. Once the form is completed make sure the Unit has a copy, you have a copy, and I get a copy. Council needs a copy also. BACKUP COPIES are very important.

 

Training is an essential tool in preparing new leaders to become effective Den Leaders, Cub Masters, or Committee Members. A “trained” leader leads to a good program. A good program keeps the youth interested and challenged. Be sure to get your new leaders trained! Take advantage of this opportunity! Jennifer Boyd will be serving as the District Training Chairperson.

 

Roundtable is an important facet of the training tools, especially for new leaders. This monthly meeting should have splits for the different level of leaders. The Cub Scout RT requires a staff of 5-6. Being fully staffed allows splits for Tiger, Wolf, Bear, and Webelos Leaders. There should also be a split for Cub Masters and Committee Members. This split allows for the “administrative” training for leaders.  Do not forget the Boy Scout side of the house during RT!!!

Need CS Meeting ideas? http://groups.yahoo.com/group/cubscout_roundtable/

 

Have you invited a Commissioner, the District Executive, or the District Chairman to your Blue & Gold? If not, please do.

 

 

Important Dates:

 

16 February 2008--Klondike Derby, Camp Tahuaya

17 February 2008--09:00-5:00pm – Trainer Development Conference, $5 pre-reg. or $ 7 at the door. LHC Office, Hurst

**There are many other happenings! See the Council Calendar for everything happening within the Council.

18-20

 

 

Know of anyone who may be a great fit for the District Committee or Commissioner Service? These people do not have to be “Scouters” to operate within these areas. If you know anyone, please contact the DE or myself. The more staff available makes for a better program, and a better program means the youth have a great time Scouting.

 

"OA ELECTIONS BEGAN 7 JANUARY!" HAS YOU TROOP CONTACTED MIKE HARRISON @ mhwbbear@vvm.com or 289-3516? If not, please do.

 
Scout Master and Senior Patrol Leaders, Each Troop should have at least one representative at the monthly OA Meeting. Here is your guideline for that:
 
The Order of the Arrow Troop Representative or Team Representative is a youth liaison serving between the local OA lodge or chapter and his unit. In his unit, he will serve as a communication and programmatic link to and from Arrowmen, adult leaders and Scouts who are not presently members of the Order. He will do this in a fashion that strengthens the mission of the lodge, purpose of the Order and the mission of the Boy Scouts of America. By setting a good example, he will enhance the image of the Order as a service arm to his unit.

 

Administrative Notes:

 

The passage from Cub Scout pack to Boy Scout troop should be smooth, with no time lost in between. By the time Webelos Scouts are ready to cross over, they and their families should be familiar and comfortable with the youth and adult leaders of the troop, their role in the troop and troop activities, and feel excited about beginning this new adventure. Have the Webelo Scout meet with a few different Troops in order to see which Unit meets what they want from Scouting. The Webelo 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.

 

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. Ideally a community organization would have both a pack and a troop with leaders who work together to help move Webelos Scouts into a Boy Scout troop the same way schools move students from elementary school to middle school.

 

Your “Bridging Ceremony” should be available too all members of the Pack. This is a great opportunity to allow the younger Cub Scouts to see what they can look forward to in a few years. This is not a “Private” Ceremony for particular leaders and youth. When you have the “Bridging Ceremony”, do not stop a Troop Leader from attending! This ceremony is for all eligible Webelo Scouts, not just for those going to your “Brother Troop.”

 

Visit my MSN SPACES BLOG PAGE http://leonvalleydistrictcomm.spaces.live.com/

You’ll find different forms, applications, training, tools, etc... in the Public Folders. I am trying to make information accessible 24/7/365. There are 15 different folders with many files in each folder. Visit the LVD Website, click on District Commissioner to get there.

 

I hope everyone attends the District Awards Dinner for FUN and FELLOWSHIP!!!

 

 

Robert Kratzer

LVD District Commissioner

“Serving Youth of the Greater Fort Hood Area”

 

 

Feb2008/rck

 

Leon Valley District Commissioner

January Roundtable Notes

 

 

I would like to ask for the contact information of Committee Chairs, Cub Masters, and one other leader of Packs, Troop’s, Crews, and Posts. This will allow me the opportunity to disseminate information to multiple personnel which in turn provides the unit with up-to-date information. Feel free to email me which in turn will give me your contact information.

 

It’s that time of the year! This is the time of the year when we have the largest amount of Re-Charters. Re-Charters are an important of your yearly planning. If your time is approaching, please be sure your Committee follows the guidelines as closely as possible to insure a timely turn-in date. To insure your paperwork is correct, have your Unit Commissioner, an Assistant District Commissioner, or the District Commissioner review the packet for completeness one week before turning the packet over to a Council Representative. This will allow you to gain the needed signature to qualify for "On-Time" Re-Charter and the Commissioners Award. One of the benefits of being a Commissioner's Award unit in 2007 is that your unit gets $1.40 per re-chartered registered youth credited to the Scout Shop Scout Bucks. These "bucks" can be used to buy Scout rank/awards. (This dollar value comes from the Mustang District Website.)  There is a 31 page Re-Charter Training paper within the files on my blog space.

 

Training is an essential tool in preparing new leaders to become effective Den Leaders, Cub Masters, or Committee Members. A “trained” leader leads to a good program. A good program keeps the youth interested and challenged. Be sure to get your new leaders trained! Take advantage of this opportunity! Jennifer Boyd will be serving as the District Training Chairperson.

 

Roundtable is an important facet of the training tools, especially for new leaders. This monthly meeting should have splits for the different level of leaders. The Cub Scout RT requires a staff of 5-6. Being fully staffed allows splits for Tiger, Wolf, Bear, and Webelos Leaders. There should also be a split for Cub Masters and Committee Members. This split allows for the “administrative” training for leaders.  Do not forget the Boy Scout side of the house during RT!!!

Need CS Meeting ideas? http://groups.yahoo.com/group/cubscout_roundtable/

 

Important Dates:

 

January 26 2008, Cub Scout Trout-O-Ree, Camp Tahuaya, Family Fishing Event   

09 February 2008, Cub Scout Trout-O-Ree, Camp Tahuaya Family Fishing Event

15-17 February 2008, Klondike Derby, Camp Tahuaya

17 February 2008, LHC Office, Hurst, 09:00-5:00pm – Trainer Development Conference, $5 pre-reg. or $ 7 at the door.

 23 February 2008, Webelos Woods, Camp Tahuaya

 

***Look at the District Calendar and Council Calendar for happenings.

 

Know of anyone who may be a great fit for the District Committee or Commissioner Service? These people do not have to be “Scouters” to operate within these areas. If you know anyone, please contact the DE or myself. The more staff available makes for a better program, and a better program means the youth have a great time Scouting.  I know some of you larger Units have a parent or two who have a skill the District can use. They’ll not have to work directly with boys! Just help the District attain goals set forth to make the youth in Leon Valley District want to stay in Scouting and tell their friends about the great program we have.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

"OA ELECTIONS BEGIN 7 JANUARY" HAVE YOU TROOPS CONTACT MIKE HARRISON @ mhwbbear@vvm.com or 289-3516

 
Scout Master and Senior Patrol Leaders, Each Troop should have at least one representative at the monthly OA Meeting. Here is your guideline for that:
 
The Order of the Arrow Troop Representative or Team Representative is a youth liaison serving between the local OA lodge or chapter and his unit. In his unit, he will serve as a communication and programmatic link to and from Arrowmen, adult leaders and Scouts who are not presently members of the Order. He will do this in a fashion that strengthens the mission of the lodge, purpose of the Order and the mission of the Boy Scouts of America. By setting a good example, he will enhance the image of the Order as a service arm to his unit.

 

 

Administrative Notes:

 

Webelos-to-Scout Transition, Bridging Ceremony; Do not take the Webelos off to some camp site and not allow the younger scouts the opportunity to watch the ceremony. A “COOL” Bridging make the kids want to be part of it. The boys should have the opportunity to visit multiple Troops in order to decide which program suits their needs and wants. If a boy decides to attend a Troop outside of you and your bother Troop, those leaders should be invited to the Bridging Ceremony.

 

Blue and Gold - It’s that time of year already. I hope you set up a great experience to the youth and their families.

 

FOS is coming too! Be sure to contact the DE and Dist. Chairman to schedule a visit to either a Pack Meeting, Blue and Gold, or Court of Honor.

 

Visit my MSN SPACES BLOG PAGE http://leonvalleydistrictcomm.spaces.live.com/

You’ll find different forms, applications, training, tools, etc... in the Public Folders. I am trying to make information accessible 24/7/365. There are 15 different folders with many files in each folder. Visit the LVD Website, click on District Commissioner to get there.

 

HAPPY HOLIDAYS TO YOU AND YOURS! PLEASE STAY SAFE ON YOUR HOLIDAY TRAVELS.

 

Robert Kratzer

LVD District Commissioner

“Serving Youth of the Greater Fort Hood Area”

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

jan08/rck

Leon Valley District Commissioner

December Roundtable Notes

 

 

I would like to ask for the contact information of Committee Chairs, Cub Masters, and one other leader of Packs, Troop’s, Crews, and Posts. This will allow me the opportunity to disseminate information to multiple personnel which in turn provides the unit with up-to-date information. Feel free to email me which in turn will give me your contact information.

 

It’s that time of the year! This is the time of the year when we have the largest amount of Re-Charters. Re-Charters are an important of your yearly planning. If your time is approaching, please be sure your Committee follows the guidelines as closely as possible to insure a timely turn-in date. To insure your paperwork is correct, have your Unit Commissioner, an Assistant District Commissioner, or the District Commissioner review the packet for completeness one week before turning the packet over to a Council Representative. This will allow you to gain the needed signature to qualify for "On-Time" Re-Charter and the Commissioners Award. One of the benefits of being a Commissioner's Award unit in 2007 is that your unit gets $1.40 per re-chartered registered youth credited to the Scout Shop Scout Bucks. These "bucks" can be used to buy Scout rank/awards. (This dollar value comes from the Mustang District Website.)  There is a 31 page Re-Charter Training paper within the files on my blog space.

 

Training is an essential tool in preparing new leaders to become effective Den Leaders, Cub Masters, or Committee Members. A “trained” leader leads to a good program. A good program keeps the youth interested and challenged. Be sure to get your new leaders trained! Take advantage of this opportunity! Jennifer Boyd will be serving as the District Training Chairperson.

 

Roundtable is an important facet of the training tools, especially for new leaders. This monthly meeting should have splits for the different level of leaders. The Cub Scout RT requires a staff of 5-6. Being fully staffed allows splits for Tiger, Wolf, Bear, and Webelos Leaders. There should also be a split for Cub Masters and Committee Members. This split allows for the “administrative” training for leaders.  Do not forget the Boy Scout side of the house during RT!!!

Need CS Meeting ideas? http://groups.yahoo.com/group/cubscout_roundtable/

 

Important Dates:

 

26-30 December 2007 – Twin Arrows/National Youth Leader Training, Camp Tahuaya.

 

5 January 2008 – Cub-O, CS Holiday Adventure, Sid Richardson Scout Ranch

What is Cub-O?: Cub-O is a fun Orienteering competition for Tiger Cubs, Cub Scouts, and Webelos held each year right after the holiday break. Over 2000 Cub Scouts, leaders and parents participate each year in the CUB-O orienteering competitions. The information packet is available on the Council Website.

 

17 February 2008, LHC Office, Hurst, 09:00-5:00pm – Trainer Development Conference, $5 pre-reg. or $ 7 at the door.

 

 

***Look at the District Calendar and Council Calendar for happenings.

****Cub Fish o’ Ree at Tahuaya have been put on hold due to the lack of sponsorship. Jeff Peters had told me things are being worked out and the 2008 events should be a go.

 

Know of anyone who may be a great fit for the District Committee or Commissioner Service? These people do not have to be “Scouters” to operate within these areas. If you know anyone, please contact the DE or myself. The more staff available makes for a better program, and a better program means the youth have a great time Scouting.

 

  

"OA ELECTIONS BEGIN 7 JANUARY" PLEASE HAVE YOU TROOP CONTACT MIKE HARRISON @ mhwbbear@vvm.com or 289-3516

 
Scout Master and Senior Patrol Leaders, Each Troop should have at least one representative at the monthly OA Meeting. Here is your guideline for that:
 
The Order of the Arrow Troop Representative or Team Representative is a youth liaison serving between the local OA lodge or chapter and his unit. In his unit, he will serve as a communication and programmatic link to and from Arrowmen, adult leaders and Scouts who are not presently members of the Order. He will do this in a fashion that strengthens the mission of the lodge, purpose of the Order and the mission of the Boy Scouts of America. By setting a good example, he will enhance the image of the Order as a service arm to his unit.

 

ALSO, OA ANNUAL DUES PAYMENT TIME!!! MAKE SURE TO KEEP YOUR MEMBERSHIP ACTIVE AND CURRENT.

 

Administrative Notes:

 

Good Turn forAmerica is a national call to service by the Boy Scouts of America that will help provide adequate food and shelter and to develop good health habits in our nation. To address these issues, we are collaborating with some of the most respected service organizations working in each of these areas.

These lead organizations, and thousands of other local groups, will work to provide volunteer opportunities for youth and adults to fight hunger, provide shelter, and teach the habits of healthy living.

What began with a singular act of service on a foggy London night quickly evolved into daily Good Turns and then into more encompassing national initiatives. These have included selling war bonds, collecting rubber and scrap metal, growing victory gardens during World War II, and more recently, Scouting for Food.

Visit here for more information: http://www.goodturnforamerica.org/

 

Visit my MSN SPACES BLOG PAGE http://leonvalleydistrictcomm.spaces.live.com/

You’ll find different forms, applications, training, tools, etc... in the Public Folders. I am trying to make information accessible 24/7/365. There are 15 different folders with many files in each folder. Visit the LVD Website, click on District Commissioner to get there.

 

HAPPY HOLIDAYS TO YOU AND YOURS! PLEASE STAY SAFE ON YOUR HOLIDAY TRAVELS.

 

Robert Kratzer

LVD District Commissioner

“Serving Youth of the Greater Fort Hood Area”

 

 

Dec/2007/rck

 

Scout Master and Senior Patrol Leaders, Each Troop/TEAM should have at least one representative at the monthly OA Meeting. Here is your guideline for that:
 
The Order of the Arrow Troop Representative or Team Representative is a youth liaison serving between the local OA lodge or chapter and his unit. In his unit, he will serve as a communication and programmatic link to and from Arrowmen, adult leaders and Scouts who are not presently members of the Order. He will do this in a fashion that strengthens the mission of the lodge, purpose of the Order and the mission of the Boy Scouts of America. By setting a good example, he will enhance the image of the Order as a service arm to his unit. See this link for proper information: http://www.main.oa-bsa.org/programs/ttr/ 

 

 

 

 

Leon Valley District Commissioner

November Roundtable Notes

 

 

I would like to ask for the contact information of Committee Chairs, Cub Masters, and one other leader of Packs, Troop’s, Crews, and Posts. This will allow me the opportunity to disseminate information to multiple personnel which in turn provides the unit with up-to-date information. Feel free to email me which in turn will give me your contact information.

 

It’s that time of the year! This is the time of the year when we have the largest amount of Re-Charters. Re-Charters are an important of your yearly planning. If your time is approaching, please be sure your Committee follows the guidelines as closely as possible to insure a timely turn-in date. To insure your paperwork is correct, have your Unit Commissioner, an Assistant District Commissioner, or the District Commissioner review the packet for completeness one week before turning the packet over to a Council Representative. This will allow you to gain the needed signature to qualify for "On-Time" Re-Charter and the Commissioners Award. One of the benefits of being a Commissioner's Award unit in 2007 is that your unit gets $1.40 per re-chartered registered youth credited to the Scout Shop Scout Bucks. These "bucks" can be used to buy Scout rank/awards. (This dollar value comes from the Mustang District Website.)  There is a 31 page Re-Charter Training paper within the files on my blog space.

 

Re-Charter Packets available for pick-up/delivery as of 13 November 2007:

 

Pack 253, Pack 242, Pack 239, Pack 244, Pack 241, Pack 201, Pack 222

 

Troop 244, Troop 242, Troop 222, Troop 243, Troop 239, Troop 238, Troop 241

 

The above are February 2008 Re-Charters

 

Training is an essential tool in preparing new leaders to become effective Den Leaders, Cub Masters, or Committee Members. A “trained” leader leads to a good program. A good program keeps the youth interested and challenged. Be sure to get your new leaders trained! The 17 November training in Austin is a great chance to better your skills with Pack/Den Management, District Committee Workshop, and Commissioner Science. This is only a one hour rider versus the 3 hour ride to Ft. Worth. Take advantage of this opportunity!

 

Roundtable is an important training tool, especially for new leaders. This monthly meeting should have splits for the different level of leaders. The Cub Scout RT requires a staff of 5-6. Being fully staffed allows splits for Tiger, Wolf, Bear, and Webelos Leaders. There should also be a split for Cub Masters and Committee Members. This split allows for the “administrative” training for leaders.  Do not forget the Boy Scout side of the house during RT!!!

Need CS Meeting ideas? http://groups.yahoo.com/group/cubscout_roundtable/

 

Important Dates:

16 November is “Food for Families” – We can use volunteers manning the Events Center, the two Commissaries on Fort Hood, and the HEB’s across the area. Schedule this with Clifton. I’ll be out of town on this day.

16-18 November 2007 – Wilderness First Aid Course --- Need for Philmont Trek (open to anyone over the age of 16 but one adult has to be certified)

01 December 2007, 09:00-4:00 – BALOO Training, Camp Tahuaya, Michelle Drake is POC 254-217-0361 or Belton177@aol.com –Each CS Pack must have at least “one” BALOO Trained leader in order to camp overnight.

01 December 2007 - OWL - Outdoor Webelos Leader --Camp Tahuaya -- Training runs Fri 6Pm to Sat 9PM Contact Bryan Johnson 254-947-1967 or johnsonbryan@otc.army.mil

26-30 December 2007 – Twin Arrows/National Youth Leader Training, Camp Tahuaya.

 

 

5 January 2008 – Cub-O, CS Holiday Adventure, Sid Richardson Scout Ranch

What is Cub-O?: Cub-O is a fun Orienteering competition for Tiger Cubs, Cub Scouts, and Webelos held each year right after the holiday break. Over 2000 Cub Scouts, leaders and parents participate each year in the CUB-O orienteering competitions. The information packet is available on the Council Website.

 

17 February 2008, LHC Office, Hurst, 09:00-5:00pm – Trainer Development Conference, $5 pre-reg. or $ 7 at the door.

 

***Look at the District Calendar and Council Calendar for happenings.

****Cub Fish o’ Ree at Tahuaya have been put on hold due to the lack of sponsorship. Jeff Peters had told me things are being worked out and the 2008 events should be a go.

 

Know of anyone who may be a great fit for the District Committee or Commissioner Service? These people do not have to be “Scouters” to operate within these areas. If you know anyone, please contact the DE or myself. The more staff available makes for a better program, and a better program means the youth have a great time Scouting.

 

Administrative Notes:

 

Youth Advancement: Please be sure your Unit Leaders and Parents understand the Advancement Policies of BSA.

 

Den Leaders – Advancement should be presented as soon as possible after a boy completes the requirements and be done with a proper ceremony. Presentation of badges should be part of each monthly Pack Meeting. Do not hold onto a boy’s award in order for everyone in the den to complete the requirements. We all work at different levels and speeds.

Cub Master - Make certain the boys who have earned awards receive them at the next Pack Meeting. Don't let them get discouraged by having them wait for recognition. Follow-up with boys who are not advancing and find out why they not advancing. Boys sometimes develop behavior problems in seeking recognition. If they receive proper recognition, they may not need to do so many exasperating things trying to gain it.

Speed of Advancement - Boys should advance one rank per year which is age of grade level. If necessary, allow the boy an extra month or two to earn the badge. A Cub Scouts' advancement progress depends on his own motivation for learning new skills; on the encouragement and help he gets from his family, and on his need for recognition. Normally, it should take a boy about 6 months to complete the requirements for Wolf and Bear rank. There is NO hard and fast rule, but if a boy rushes through the requirements, it may be difficult to hold his interest with electives through the rest of the year. Example: If a boy becomes a Bear at the end of the school year (May) and begins to work towards his Bear rank immediately. If this boy attends Day Camp and works throughout the summer, he can receive the Bear Rank in November of that year.

Boy Scout Advancement: Much of the above does not apply for the Boy Scout Aged Youth. Due to the requirements for Merit Badges and the like, each youth earns Ranks and Merit Badges at different stages. Be sure to award the Rank or Merit Badge at the “next” Court of Honor.

 

Visit my MSN SPACES BLOG PAGE http://leonvalleydistrictcomm.spaces.live.com/

 

You’ll find different forms, applications, training, tools, etc... in the Public Folders. I am trying to make information accessible 24/7/365. There are 15 different folders with many files in each folder. Visit the LVD Website, click on District Commissioner to get there.

 

  

Robert Kratzer

LVD District Commissioner

“Serving Youth of the Greater Fort Hood Area”

 

 

13Nov2007/rck

I would like to ask all Scouters to keep Gerry Greene in your thoughts and prayers. Gerry is currently very ill and needs all the support we can muster. Gerry has been a long-time face in the Greater Fort Hood Area Scouting Community. I would like to thank you in advance for your prayers.

 

A Prayer for Gerry:

A SCOUT'S PRAYER

We have hiked along life's pathway,
Our packs upon our backs,
We have pitched our tents and rested
Here and there along the tracks.

We have used our compass wisely
To guide us on our way
And hope to reach the campsite
Of our Great Chief Scout some day.

We have tried to be trustworthy -
Kept our honor high and clean,
We have been as loyal as any
To our Country and our Queen.

We have done our best at all times -
Kept our Promise - been prepared,
And hope our good deeds please Him
When at last our souls are bared.

We have lightened others' burdens,
With our smiles along the way,
We have kept our hand in God's hand,
Walked beside Him day by day.

And when our span of life runs out,
We'll make this gentle plea -
May we sit around His Campfire
At the Final Jamboree.

 

 

 

LVD DISTRICT COMMISSIONERS

MONTHLY MEETING

27 OCTOBER 2007

 

 

Welcome and Greetings

 

DE Minutes

 

*Please keep to the agenda so we can finish in a timely manner. Open discussion once the agenda is finished.

 

Unit Health Reports/ Unit Visit Report:

 

I really need this information on your Unit Visitations by the third Monday of each month. I had emailed each Commissioner a Red/Yellow/Green Unit Health Report and asked for a response for their Units. I need your true assessment of each Unit. (The Unit Health Report is not a monthly report.)

 

**Do any of your Units need help and if so, what sort of help? ONE PERSON AT A TIME!

 

Centennial Quality Unit:

 

With the upcoming Re-Charters, it is time for the Commissioner Service to meet with Units to review whatever the Unit Leaders set as their goals. If a Unit had not completed the CQU 2007 paperwork they do not qualify for Quality Unit.

 

I have the Form “2007 Centennial Quality Achievement Form for Unit Award” with the instructions on the back of this form. This form is used to review the CQU 2007 Paperwork a Unit has filled out and returned to their Commissioner for completion. Units who Re-charter in December have until the end of January 2008 to complete the Award Form. I will provide Commissioners with copies.

 

The 200 Centennial Quality (Unit) Award Program will be available shortly. I am supposed to have these forms in time to include them with the Re-Chartering phase, The Commissioner Service will be responsible to sit down with unit leaders and have the form completed and turned in with the Re-Charter Packet.

 

Re-Charter:

 

As we all know, it’s that time of the year. We will begin our busiest time of the year when it comes to Re-Chartering. Meet with your Units to go over the Packets, most of which they are given 3 months prior to the Re-Charter date. There is no reason for the Re-Charter to be late, but if they are late it reflects back to the Commissioner Service for not being part of this procedure. Reinforce the on-time re-charter (14 days prior to re-charter date) will allow a unit to gain $1.40 per registered scout be placed into the Unit Account at the Waco Scout Store.

 

Training Opportunities:

 

Work with your units to insure Unit Leaders are trained in a timely fashion. Untrained leaders do not lend to a positive experience for the boys. Work with them to generate a list of who is trained, in what roles are they trained, and what dates did the training occurs, etc… Jennifer generated a list of somewhat local training which is available for leaders.

 

Capitol Area Council is offering a Commissioners College 17 Nov. 2007 at St. Edwards University (located on South Congress). http://www.bsacac.org/Training/CommissionerCollege.php

 

 

 

List of Training Assignments for future LVD DC Monthly Meeting:

 

21 Dec 2007:          Gerry Greene -- Subject: Our role in Unit Re-Chartering.

 

26 Jan 2008:           John Hobson -- Subject: What is the role of the Unit Commissioner?

 

01 Mar 2008:          Jennifer Boyd -- Subject: How to get new Commissioners ready to succeed?

 

26 Apr 2008:          Rhonda Holiskey -- Subject: What are some early warning signs of trouble?

 

24 May 2008: Eric Fremming -- Subject: Our role helping Units stay viable during the summer months.

 

My Burning Issue:

 

Youth Advancement: Please be sure your Unit Leaders understand the Advancement Policies of BSA.

 

Den Leaders – Advancement should be presented as soon as possible after a boy completes the requirements and be done with a proper ceremony. Presentation of badges should be part of each monthly Pack Meeting. Do not hold onto a boy’s award in order for everyone in the den to complete the requirements. We all work at different levels and speeds.

Cub Master - Make certain the boys who have earned awards receive them at the next Pack Meeting. Don't let them get discouraged by having them wait for recognition. Follow-up on boys who are not advancing to find out why they not advancing. Boys sometimes develop behavior problems in seeking recognition. If they receive proper recognition, they may not need to do so many exasperating things trying to gain it.

Speed of Advancement - Boys should advance one rank per year which is age of grade level. If necessary, allow the boy an extra month or two to earn the badge. A Cub Scouts' advancement progress depends on his own motivation for learning new skills; on the encouragement and help he gets from his family, and on his need for recognition. Normally, it should take a boy about 6 months to complete the requirements for Wolf and Bear rank. There is NO hard and fast rule, but if a boy rushes through the requirements, it may be difficult to hold his interest with electives through the rest of the year. Example: If a boy becomes a Bear at the end of the school year (May) and begins to work towards his Bear rank immediately. If this boy attends Day Camp and works throughout the summer, he can receive the Bear Rank in November of that year.

 

COUNCIL COMMISSIONER INFORMATION

 

Internet Re-Chartering Changes:

 

Multiple Positions for Chartered Organizations representative: The COR is the only registered adult allowed to hold two positions in the same unit. The CR may multiple as the Committee Chair (CC) or a Committee Member (MC) holding only one additional registered position that is approved under BSA Registration policy.

 

Social Security Number Handling Changed: If an adult who is an Executive Officer (IH) in a unit or Adult Partner (AP) in a pack is given a registered position, a Social Security number is required. Internet Re-Chartering was corrected to allow entry of a Social Security number.

 

Required Minimum Number of Adult Positions Verified: The Check Roster now correctly verifies that the minimum number of positions required. Based upon the unit type, is provided for each unit.

 

Adult Registrants Who Previously Held a No Fee Position Now Listed as New Adult Registrant: Adult registrants who previously held a No Fee position in the previous charter are now correctly listed as New Adult Registrants and require a Social Security number.

 

Add Membership Inventory Tracking for Youth Member not Selected for Renewal: The Summary stage of Internet Re-Chartering now includes a Unit Worksheet, which will gather data about why each youth member was not renewed. The process was designed for ease of use and a minimal impact on the time, accuracy, and efficiency of the charter-renewal process for volunteers. For each youth not renewed, the unit must select one of six reasons for non-renewal. In addition, the unit must answer a question about whether or not each youth member not renewing was contacted. The data collected will appear in MYBSA.

 

Webelos-to-Scout Transition:

 

Official Plan

District Twists on Plan

Joint RT

WL Rosters for SM

SM Rosters for WL

Troop Open House

Tracking Sheet

 

**As a Unit Commissioner, you are the link between the troop and the pack. Often, the same UC will serve brother-units. UC’s should be a catalyst in developing good relationships between packs and troops. You can promote communication be scheduling a meeting of key volunteers in the units. It is important to keep the pack and troop on schedule as plans develop for the crossover ceremony at the Blue & Gold Banquet. The UC should attend the Banquet as a Council Representative. Be sure Webelos Scouts join a troop in time to prepare for Boy Scout Summer Camp. Give all Webelos Scouts a chance to experience the fun and excitement of Boy Scouting.

 

**Lastly, I ask that each of you present a helping hand to our units. With the growth of the District and extreme growth of some units, guidance will be needed. Keep you eyes open, ear listening, and your helping hand available. Help keep the District stay strong and moving forward.

 

As always, I would like to thank each and every one of you for your service to the Units and Youth of Leon Valley District.

 

Robert Kratzer

District Commissioner

Leon Valley District

leonvalleydistrictcommissioner@hotmail.com

 

 

Happiness is open to all, since, when you boil it down; it merely consists of contentment with what you have got and doing what you can for other people.
Sir Robert Baden-Powell

Cub Scout Advancement Plan

Advancement is the process by which a boy progresses from badge to badge, learning new skills as he goes. The Cub Scout advancement program is designed to encourage the natural interests of a boy in a natural way. Each of the ranks and awards in Cub Scouting has its own requirements. As a boy advances through the ranks, requirements are progressively more challenging, matching the increased skills and abilities of a boy as he grows older.

Advancement is one of the methods used to achieve Scouting's aims—character development, citizenship training, and personal fitness. Everything a Cub Scout does to advance is designed to achieve these aims and aid in his personal growth. These badges are a means to an end—not an end in themselves.

 

Notes to Unit Leaders and Parents

Parents of Cub Scouts should understand their role and responsibilities in their son’s advancement.  The adult’s standard for completion of any requirements should be based on the Cub Scout Motto, “Do your Best.”

Den Leaders – Advancement should be presented as soon as possible after a boy completes the requirements and be done with a proper ceremony. Presentation of badges should be part of each monthly Pack Meeting. Do not hold onto a boy’s award in order for everyone in the den to complete the requirements. We all work at different levels and speeds.

Cub Master - Make certain the boys who have earned awards receive them at the next Pack Meeting. Don't let them get discouraged by having them wait for recognition. Follow-up on boys who are not advancing and find out why. Boys sometimes develop behavior problems in seeking recognition. If they receive proper recognition, they may not need to do so many exasperating things trying to gain it.

Speed of Advancement - Boys should advance one rank per year which is age of grade level. If necessary, allow the boy an extra month or two to earn the badge. A Cub Scouts' advancement progress depends on his own motivation for learning new skills, on the encouragement and help he gets from his family, and on his need for recognition. Normally, it should take a boy about 6 months to complete the requirements for Wolf and Bear rank. There is NO hard and fast rule, but if a boy rushes through the requirements, it may be difficult to hold his interest with electives through the rest of the year. Example: If a boy becomes a Bear at the end of the school year (May) and begins to work towards his Bear rank immediately. If this boy attends Day Camp and works throughout the summer, he can receive the Bear Rank in November of that year.

Recognition is important to young boys. The Cub Scouting advancement plan provides fun for the boys, gives them a sense of personal achievement as they earn badges, and strengthens family understanding as adult family members work with boys on advancement projects.

Bobcat: The Bobcat rank is for all boys who join Cub Scouting.

Tiger Cub: The Tiger Cub program is for first-grade (or age 7) boys and their adult partners. There are five Tiger Cub achievement areas. The Tiger Cub, working with his adult partner, completes 15 requirements within these areas to earn the Tiger Cub badge. These requirements consist of an exciting series of indoor and outdoor activities just right for a boy in the first grade.

After earning the Bobcat Badge, to begin his path to the Tiger Cub Rank, a boy must do the following to earn the Tiger Cub Totem:

• Learn the Cub Scout Motto: Do Your Best
• Learn the Cub Scout Sign
• Learn the Cub Scout Salute

Wolf: The Wolf program is for boys who have completed first grade (or are age 8). To earn the Wolf badge, a boy must pass 12 achievements involving simple physical and mental skills.

To earn the Wolf rank a Cub Scout must complete 58 tasks out of a possible 74 tasks that are offered in the book.

If the Cub Scout has not previously earned the Bobcat Badge, it must be earned first.

Note that these activities are primarily done at home and signed off by the parent after the boy has completed each task. The book is then shown to the Den Leader who records the progress and also signs the boy's book.

 Bear: The Bear rank is for boys who have completed second grade (or are age 9). There are 24 Bear achievements in four categories. The Cub Scout must complete 12 of these to earn the Bear badge. These requirements are somewhat more difficult and challenging than those for Wolf rank.

To earn the Bear Badge, a Cub Scout must complete 12 achievements out of a possible 24 that are offered in the book. The achievements are grouped in 4 major areas, GOD, COUNTRY, FAMILY, and SELF. Within each group, a required number of achievements must be completed, as indicated below. Also, any achievements that they do NOT use to earn the Bear Badge may be used to earn Arrow Points.

(Note that these achievements, as were the Wolf activities, are primarily done at home and signed off by an adult family member after the boy has completed each one. The book is then shown to the Den Leader who records the progress and also signs the boy's book.)

The Bear Achievements are as follows, page number references to the Bear Book are in parenthesis.

If the Cub Scout has not previously earned the Bobcat Badge it must be earned first.

Webelos: This program is for boys who have completed third grade (or are age 10). A boy may begin working on the Webelos badge as soon as he joins a Webelos den. This is the first step in his transition from the Webelos den to the Boy Scout troop. As he completes the requirements found in the Webelos Handbook, he will work on activity badges, attend meetings led by adults, and become familiar with the Boy Scout requirements—all leading to the Arrow of Light Award.

You must first earn the Bobcat Badge to be eligible to work towards this award.

Also, your Webelos Den Leader will now sign off your activities (your parent or guardian does not sign off the activities as they did when you were a Wolf or Bear).

1. Have an adult member of your family read the Webelos Scout Parent Guide that comes with this book (pages 1-22) and sign here.
2. Be an active member of your Webelos den for 3 months (Active means having good attendance, paying den dues, working on den projects).
3. Know and explain the meaning of the Webelos badge.
4. Point out the three special parts of the Webelos Scout uniform. Tell when to wear the uniform and when not to wear it.
5. Earn the Fitness and Citizen Activity badges and one other activity badge from a different activity group.
6. Plan and lead a flag ceremony in your den that includes the U.S. flag.
7. Show that you know and understand the requirements to be a Boy Scout.
   1. Demonstrate the Scout salute, Scout sign, and Scout handshake. Explain when you would use them.
   2. Explain the Scout Oath, Scout Law, Scout Motto, and Scout Slogan
   3. Explain and agree to follow the Outdoor Code.
8. Faith
   After completing the rest of requirement 8, do these (a, b, and c):
   1. Know: Tell what you have learned about faith.
   2. Commit: Tell how these faith experiences help you live your duty to God. Name one faith practice that you will continue to do in the future.
   3. Practice: After doing these requirements, tell what you have learned about your beliefs.

And do one of these (d OR e):

4. Earn the religious emblem of your faith*
5. Do two of these:
   • Attend the mosque, church, synagogue, temple, or other religious organization of your choice, talk with your religious leader about your beliefs. Tell your family and your Webelos den leader what you learned.
   • Discuss with your family and Webelos den leader how your religious beliefs fit in with the Scout Oath and Scout Law, and what character-building traits your religious beliefs have in common with the Scout Oath and Scout Law.
   • With your religious leader, discuss and make a plan to do two things you think will help you draw nearer to God. Do these things  for a month.
   • For at least a month, pray or meditate reverently each day as taught by your family, and by your church, temple, mosque, synagogue, or religious group.
   • Under the direction of your religious leader, do an act of service for someone else. Talk about your service with your family and Webelos den leader. Tell them how it made you feel.
   • List at least two ways you believe you have lived according to your religious beliefs.

* If you earned your faith's religious emblem earlier in Cub Scouting, and your faith does not have a Webelos religious emblem, you must complete requirement 8e.

Completion of requirement 8e does not qualify a youth to receive the religious emblem of his faith.

 Arrow of Light

1. Be active in your Webelos den for at least six months since completing the fourth grade (or for at least six months since becoming 10 years old), and earn the Webelos Badge.
2. Show your knowledge of the requirements to become a Boy Scout by doing all of these:
   • Repeat from memory and explain in your own words the Scout Oath or Promise and the 12 points of the Scout Law. Tell how you have practiced them in your everyday life.
   • Give and explain the Scout Motto, slogan, sign, salute, and handshake.
   • Understand the significance of the First Class Scout badge. Describe its parts and tell what each stands for.
   • Tell how a Boy Scout uniform is different from a Webelos Scout uniform.
   • Tie the joining knot (square knot)
3. Earn five more activity badges in addition to the three you already earned for the Webelos badge. These must include:
   • Fitness (already earned for the Webelos badge)
   • Citizen (already earned for the Webelos badge)
   • Readyman
   • Outdoorsman
   • At least one from the Mental Skills Group
   • At least one from the Technology Group
   • One more of your choice.
   • (Plus the one other badge of your choice that was already earned for the Webelos badge)
     See page 74 for the activity badges group.
4. With your Webelos den, visit at least
   • one Boy Scout troop meeting, and
   • one Boy Scout-oriented outdoor activity.
     (If you have already done this when you earned your Outdoorsman activity badge, you may not use it to fulfill requirements for your Arrow of Light Award requirements.)
5. Participate in a Webelos overnight campout or day hike.
   (If you have already done this when you earned your Outdoorsman activity badge, you may not use it to fulfill requirements for your Arrow of Light Award requirements.)
6. After you have completed all five of the above requirements and after a talk with your Webelos den leader, arrange to visit, with your parent or guardian, a meeting of a Boy Scout troop you think you might like to join. Have a conference with the Scoutmaster.
7. Complete the Honesty Character Connection.

A.      Know: Say the Cub Scout Promise to your family. Discuss these questions with them. What is a promise? What does it mean to keep your word? What does it mean to be trustworthy? What does honesty mean?

B.      Commit: Discuss these questions with your family. Why is a promise important? Why is it important for people to trust you when you give your word? When might it be difficult to be truthful? List examples.

C.      Practice: Discuss with a family member why it is important to be trustworthy and honest. How can you do your best to be honest even when it is difficult?

 

Hello everyone,
 
Before I say anything, I would like to thank each of you for your service to the Units and Boy Scouts. Without people like you, Boy Scouts would fail to meet its goals.
 
First, I would like to introduce a few new members of the Commissioner Service Team.
 
Carol Beckom has offered to assist with the LDS Units. As most of you know, Carol has a wealth of knowledge and a great heart. THANK YOU CAROL!
 
Next we have Eric Fremming. Eric is an experienced Scouter who will serve as the ADC for Fort Hood. Eric was on Commissioner Staff back in the 90's while I was serving also. Eric is an Eagle Scout with many years of experience as an Adult Leader also. THANK YOU ERIC!
 
Now onto business.
 
With the growth of our Units due to the School Rallies, we will need to offer our assistance, knowledge, and understanding of the issues which will arise due to some units tripling their numbers. Parental expectations might be above and beyond what Unit Leaders have control over. Please be sure to offer your assistance. Maybe a chat during a Pack Meeting with the parents can clear the issue. Make yourself available!
 
Unit leaders are already telling me of some of the things coming across their table. Parents are upset because their 5th grader signed up but will not be able to crossover with the other boys because they are not old enough, in the right grade, or have not earned their Arrow of Light.
 
Lack of leaders is also a problem. We may have to talk to parents about volunteering to help make sure the program works. Reinforce that Boy Scouts does not work without volunteers.
 
Unit visitation reports. Please be sure to fill these reports out and email a copy to me. I have to turn these reports over to the Council Commissioner at the 4th Thursday of the month meeting. He would like to receive them in his email, especially form the units in the southern districts.
 
Recharters are about to overtake us. Please be sure your units operate through you to complete the Recharter. Let them know there is an incentive of $1.40 per youth if the packet is turned over to Council two weeks prior to the Recharter date. While completing their packets, be sure to use a Field Receipt! Inform the Units there is a Recharter Booklet which then can use as reference material. Greg has place it in HTML format on the District webpage. It's also available on my spaces blog page in the file section.
 
It's time to review the Centennial Quality Unit forms to see if there was growth, etc.. Please make time to go over these with your Units. I had given you a copy of a Unit Report with 'Red, Green, Yellow' and have not received one report. Council wanted this information, so I had to make it off the top of my head. I know it seems as if there are many reports, but we have no choice but to take five minutes to fill them out. 
 
That is about it for now. Do not forget we have a Commissioners Meeting the 4th Saturday. Where do we want to eat? I am open to suggestions.

Please review the attachment. If there are any corrections, please feel free to contact me

Leon Valley District Commissioner

October Roundtable Notes

 

 

Clifton has been working hard with School Rallies and Boy Talks. Please take time to show your appreciation for his hard work by saying thank you.

 

I would like to ask for the contact information of Committee Chairs, Cub Masters, and one other leader of Packs, Troop’s, Crews, and Posts. This will allow me the opportunity to disseminate information. Feel free to email me which in turn will give me your contact information.

 

Boy Scout Community Rally will be held at the Putt-Putt 13 October 2007 10-13:00 hrs. Super Saturday prices are:

            $10 – 1 slice of pizza, regular drink, 20 game tokens,, unlimited Putt-Putt golf.

            $15 – add bumper cars

            $20 – add go-karts

            *15 boys ($20.99 per boy) guarantee will get a group rate with hours of 10:00 -            midnight

            *If a youth signs up, Putt-Putt will give them a scratch ticket from which they can           win games or food.

 

I would like for 2-3 Cub Scout Packs to offer their time to help organize a Cub Scout Olympics for the beginning of 2008 (Feb or Mar). Please see me in the back room, call me, or email me. Let’s make it a great experience for the boys.

 

Re-Charters are an important of your yearly planning. If your time is approaching, please be sure your Committee follows the guidelines as closely as possible to insure a timely turn-in date. To insure your paperwork is correct, have your Unit Commissioner, an Assistant District Commissioner, or the District Commissioner review the packet for completeness one week before turning the packet over to a Council Representative. This will allow you to gain the needed signature to qualify for "On-Time" Re-Charter and the Commissioners Award. One of the benefits of being a Commissioner's Award unit in 2007 is that your unit gets $1.40 per re-chartered registered youth credited to the Scout Shop Scout Bucks. These "bucks" can be used to buy Scout rank/awards. (This dollar value comes from the Mustang District Website.)  There is a 31 page Re-Charter Training paper within the files on my blog space.

 

Training is an essential tool in preparing new leaders to become effective Den Leaders, Cub Masters, or Committee Members. A “trained” leader leads to a good program. A good program keeps the youth interested and challenged. Be sure to get your new leaders trained!

  

Roundtable is an important training tool, especially for new leaders. This monthly meeting should have splits for the different level of leaders. The Cub Scout RT requires

a staff of 5-6. Being fully staffed allows splits for Tiger, Wolf, Bear, and Webelos Leaders. There should also be a split for Cub Masters and Committee Members. This split allows for the “administrative” training for leaders. 

 

Need CS Meeting ideas? http://groups.yahoo.com/group/cubscout_roundtable/ This Yahoo Group is operated by the LBD CS RT Commissioner. Volunteer to serve on the Roundtable Staff! Your volunteer service can only make the Unit Leaders experience more positive.

 

Future Happenings:

 

20 October 2007 – Fall Festival and Haunted Hayride, Camp Tahuaya (Belton)

03 November 2007 – Cub Scout Fish-O-Ree, Camp Tahuaya (Belton)

10 November 2007 – Highland Games, Camp Tahuaya

10 November 2007 – University of Scouting, Everman HS, Everman, TX ($10)

16-18 November 2007 – Wilderness First Aid Course --- Need for Philmont Trek (open to anyone over the age of 16 but one adult has to be certified)

26-30 December 2007 – Twin Arrows/National Youth Leader Training, Camp Tahuaya

***Look at the District Calendar and Council Calendar for happenings.

 

**Haunted House at Six Flags—Volunteers needed to man the haunted house. For 2 ½ hours of work, your family can have free entrance into the park. With a cost of $40 per person, this is a bargain. If you want to volunteer, please contact Clifton and/or myself.

 

Visit my MSN SPACES BLOG PAGE http://leonvalleydistrictcomm.spaces.live.com/

You’ll find different forms, applications, training, tools, etc... in the Public Folders. I am trying to make information accessible 24/7/365. There are 15 different folders with many files in each folder. Visit the LVD Website, click on District Commissioner to get there.

It's that time of the year when the Units in LVD begin to Recharter. I have made information readily accessible by placing guidelines and training material into my files which are downloadable. Please take advantage of the files. Feel free to contact the DE or myself if you have any questions.

I would like to thank everyone involved with Membership in the District and the Unit. As a District, we stand to gain most likely, up to 350 new Scouts because of your hard work. Clifton and I have made numerous school visits during the day, then have tried to attend most of the rally nights. There are still many more schools to be rallied, but we'll get the job done. Oh yeah, David Chapman had rallied Gatesville and did well there also.

 

Your unit leadership must be sure to attend PTA and other school meetings. My own experience with attending these meetings is you can talk to parents who may have not been able to make the rally. Ask the school if your unit can set a table up, take some application, give contact information, etc... If you are involved with an FRG (Family Readiness Group), explain to parents that Scouting can be an outlet for their children. Recruiting of  "adult volunteers": Explain to prospective leaders how serving on a Unit Committee or as a Den Leader can offer them something to take their mind off the deployment of a loved one.

Leon Valley District Commissioner

Roundtable Notes

 

11 Sept. 2007

 

The new scout year has begun! It’s my hope that everyone has been doing their part with reference to School Rally’s. Clifton and I have visited many schools and feel the kids are ready to become scouts. The last count from four school rallies is 155 new Cub Scouts. Don’t forget we need “adult” leadership in order to make the program work and keep the youth interested throughout the year.

 

Training is an essential tool in preparing new leaders to become effective Den Leaders, Cub Masters, or Committee Members. A “trained” leader leads to a good program. A good program keeps the youth interested and challenged. Be sure to get your new leaders trained!

 

Roundtable is an important training tool, especially for new leaders. This monthly meeting should have splits for the different level of leaders. The Cub Scout RT requires

a staff of 5-6. Being fully staffed allows splits for Tiger, Wolf, Bear, and Webelos Leaders. There should also be a split for Cub Masters and Committee Members. This split allows for the “administrative” training for leaders.  

 

Need CS Meeting ideas? http://groups.yahoo.com/group/cubscout_roundtable/ This Yahoo Group is operated by the LBD CS RT Commissioner. Volunteer to serve on the Roundtable Staff! Your volunteer service can only make the Unit Leaders experience more positive.

 

Does it seem that I am stuck on “TRAINING?” Outside of rallies for membership, training new leaders, as well as old-timers is vital to the success of the program and our District.

 

Visit my MSN SPACES BLOG PAGE http://leonvalleydistrictcomm.spaces.live.com/

You’ll find different forms, applications, training, tools, etc... in the Public Folders. I am trying to make information accessible 24/7/365. There are 15 different folders with many files in each folder.

 

Future Happenings:

15 September 2007 – LVD Super Saturday (Training Sessions)

29 September 2007 – Leon Valley Scout Community Awareness Day (Killeen)

06 October 2007 – Cub Scout Family Adventure, Camp Tahuaya (Belton)

20 October 2007 – Fall Festival and Haunted Hayride, Camp Tahuaya (Belton)

03 November 2007 – Cub Scout Fish-O-Ree, Camp Tahuaya (Belton)

 

***If there would be one person from every scout unit we have in the District to volunteer for Roundtable Staff or for the District Committee, “OUR” District would prosper. Serving on the District Committee would benefit the youth here in the Great Fort Hood Area. In order to provide a GREAT PROGRAM, it takes a GREAT TEAM of VOLUNTEERS. A Chairperson without members does not make a committee. It takes a team to make a committee work. Become part of the TEAM!

 

District Commissioner Administrative Note

September 2007 RT

 

Re-Charter Information

 

Here is a change of date for turning in your "Completed" Re-Charter:

 

When your Re-Charter Packet is delivered to your unit please read this form: "Longhorn Council 2007 (or 2008) Commissioners Award". Read number three (3) and understand your turn-in date is actually 2 weeks prior to the Charter expiration date.

 

Example: Your Re-Charter is due to expire 31 December 2007... In order to qualify for the Commissioners Award, your Re-Charter Packet should be in the hands of the District Executive or in the Council Office located in Waco by 17 December 2007. You cannot deliver your packet to Council without ALL appropriate signatures!

 

To insure your paperwork is correct, have your Unit Commissioner, an Assistant District Commissioner, or the District Commissioner review the packet for completeness one week before turning the packet over to a Council Representative. This will allow you to gain the needed signature to qualify for "On-Time" Re-Charter and the Commissioners Award. One of the benefits of being a Commissioner's Award unit in 2007 is that your unit gets $1.40 per re-chartered registered youth credited to the Scout Shop Scout Bucks. These "bucks" can be used to buy Scout rank/awards. (This dollar value comes from the Mustang District Website.)

 

Be sure to review ALL paperwork in the Re-Charter Packet and obtain needed signatures in a timely fashion. When you turn your Re-Charter Packet over to the DE, DC, or UC, please ask for a "FIELD RECEIPT." A receipt is your proof the packet was turned over in a timely fashion.

 

***If you need instructions regarding "How to Use the Electronic Re-Charter Process" you will find a 30 page guide in my files.

  

Be sure to look for new information on the LVD website: http://www.leonvalleydistrict.org/ Read the “Other Happenings” too!

  

If you have any questions or comments please contact:

Robert Kratzer, District Commissioner, Leon Valley District @ leonvalleydistrictcommissioner@hotmail.com