| News - Youth Leader Training Conference |
Posted Nov. 20, 2008 |
 The Connecticut Yankee Council Youth Leader Training Conference will be held on the weekends of January 9-11, 2009 and January 16-18, 2009 at the Deer Lake Scout Reservation. The course is open to any registered Scout currently serving as troop senior patrol leader, assistant senior patrol leader, or has the potential to be a SPL. The Scout must be at least First Class Rank and must be recommended by his Scoutmaster.
The Scout must be 13 years of age by January 1, 2009
Program Cost is $270.00. An Early Bird fee of $250.00 is also available.
All Scouts will be required to have a complete, current (within the last 12 months) Class III Health Form. |
| News - Operation Popcorn |
Posted Nov. 20, 2008 |
 Even though the 2008 Popcorn take order sale has concluded, it's not too late to participate in the Operation Popcorn sale. Operation popcorn, formerly called Patriot Popcorn, is an opportunity for units to raise dollars in the community that will be used to send popcorn to our military troops. Operation popcorn is an easy way to for our Scouting units to send quality popcorn to the troops and to earn fundraising dollars to support local Scouting. There is no product to pickup with this sale. Scouts go into the community, fill up their Operation Popcorn order form, the order is placed with Trails-End and the popcorn is produced and delivered to military units. Units will recieve a commission on every sale that is made through Operation popcorn.
Follow the link below to find additional information and resources to support your Operation Popcorn Sale. |
| News - Connecticut Dodgeball Tournament |
Posted Nov. 20, 2008 |
 The Connecticut Corporate Dodgeball Tournament is an event in support of the 25,000 youth members of the Connecticut Yankee Council, Boy Scouts of America and Learning for Life. The 2008 tournament will be held on December 14th at the JCC of Eastern Fairfield County in Bridgeport.
A maximum of 64 dodgeball teams consisting of 8 team members will compete in a double elimination tournament to determine the overall tournament champion. A cash prize will be awarded to the tournament champion. |
| News - District Committee Workshop |
Posted Nov. 20, 2008 |
 The District Committee Workshop is a session designed for members of the six district committees of the Connecticut Yankee Council. The workshop will take place on Saturday, January 24, 2009 at the Council Resource Center in Milford. New committee members and long time members are invited to share their experiences and plan for 2009. This session is facilitated by John Davenport, Vice President for District Operations and will include guest facilitation by other top volunteers. All district committee members are strongly encouraged to attend. |
| News - 2009 Merit Badge College |
Posted Nov. 20, 2008 |
 The 2009 Merit Badge College will be held at Lyman Hall High School in Wallingford and starts on Saturday, February 7, 2009 and runs through Saturday, March 7, 2009. The fee for the Merit Badge College is $20 per Scout. Registration forms have been sent to the all Troop Committee Chairman. Correctly completed registrations will be considered on a first come – first served basis. Registration forms and fees must be received at the Council Resource Center no later than 1:00 p.m. on Tuesday, December 23, 2008. Fees must be submitted with your registration form. No Registration will be accepted after the deadline. Space is limited, so be sure to register early. If you have questions or require additional information, please contact Karen Andersen at H(203)264-2408 or W(203)205-8684, or Staff Advisor, David Rennie at (203)876-6868, Ext. 280. |
| News - Silver Beaver Nominations |
Posted Nov. 20, 2008 |
 The Silver Beaver Award is the highest recognition presented by the National Council for distinguished service to young people within a local council. Since its creation in 1931, only about 50,000 awards have been conferred nationally. Less than 700 Scouters have been recognized in Connecticut Yankee Council and our predecessor Councils, since 1934.
Nominations are requested for registered adult scouters who have demonstrated sustained superior service to our Scouts. Nominations are due by 5:00 PM, Friday, November 21, 2008, to be considered for the 2009 selection board. The awards will be presented at the annual Council Recognition dinner in January.
This link contains a listing of all Silver Beaver recipients in Connecticut Yankee Council and predecessor Councils:
http://www.ctyankee.org/program/adultawards/silverbeaver/
Click on "More Information" for the 2009 Nomination Package. |
| News - Program Calendar Advertisements |
Posted Nov. 20, 2008 |
 2009 - 2010 Program Calendar
Advertisement Sale
Do you or someone you know own a business?
Do you believe in the Scouting Program?
If so, please place an ad in the 2009 – 2010 Program Calendar Book. In May of 2009, we will be publishing and distributing over 4,000 professionally run copies of our Annual Program Book to volunteer Scout leaders in and around Fairfield and New Haven Counties. Unit's that sell an advertisement in the Council Program Calendar will earn a commission from the sale.
Additional information on this opportunity to support the Scouting program is available through the more information link below.
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| News - Connecticut University of Scouting |
Posted Nov. 20, 2008 |
 Mark your calendar with Saturday, March 14, 2009. The Connecticut University of Scouting will again be at Crosby High School in Waterbury, Connecticut. This annual leader extravaganza gives all leaders a chance to expand their horizons by attending classes and workshops with seasoned instructors. 2008 marks the third year of the Connecticut University of Scouting with a new university Logo/Patch and will feature the new improved and updated program with new courses and a new College of Health and Safety being added.
The University is for everyone. For Tiger Den Leaders, Cub Den Leaders, Webelos Den Leaders, Cubmasters and all their Assistants. Scoutmasters, Assistant Scoutmasters, Committee Members of both Packs and Troops, Venturing Leaders, District and Council members, Commissioners, interested parents…any and all volunteers. No prerequisite training necessary, but Fast Start Training may be helpful.
The University of Scouting provides a full spectrum of classes and workshops that will strengthen weekly meeting for all youth members…Cub Scouts, Boy Scouts, Venturers, and Explorers. Here are 10 reasons for Committee Chairs and Unit Leaders to attend and bring all their unit committee, all assistant leaders, interested parents, and don’t forget the Commissioners, and District/Council Committee members:
1. To broaden your commitment to scouting.
2. To deepen their understanding of the impact Scouting has on youth.
3. To better understand the various roles of a successful unit.
4. To better appreciate the values of all Scouting programs.
5. To strengthen your Pack, Troop, Committee, Crew, Post, or Den meeting.
6. To improve your leadership skills.
7. To learn “how to” sell Scouting better…to parents, community, and youth.
8. To share successful ideas and pickup new ideas from others.
9. To deliver quality Scouting programs.
10. To have fun and learn.
So save Saturday, March 14, 2009, for attending the new and improved Connecticut University of Scouting. Stay tuned and watch for more information coming. |
| News - Trainer Development Conference |
Posted Nov. 20, 2008 |
 "Those Who Train Others Must be Trained to Train"
Superb Experience for Every Scouter Wishing to Be a Trainer
Also - Required Training for Wood Badge Staff
When: Saturday, March 7, 2009 - 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM
Where: Council Resource Center, 60 Wellington Road, Milford
How much is it? $7.00
Topics:
Why and How We Train Leaders - - How Adults Learn - - Communication
Characteristics of a Good Trainer - - Planning - - Arrangements
Training Technology - - Training Methods - - Pizzazz
Registration due in Council Resource Center by February 27, 2009
This course fills up quickly & space is always limited, so register early
Please come in Full Uniform and Bring a Bagged Lunch and Writing Implements |
| News - Are you prepared for the weather? |
Posted Nov. 20, 2008 |
 Planning an outdoor activity? Would you know the safest place to huddle if caught outside during a tornado? Or what is meant by the term “flash flood?” Or the size of the largest hailstone recorded in the United States?
You’ll learn all that and more from the new training course offered by the BSA’s E-Learning Management System.
First, take the eight-question Brainscan quiz to measure your overall weather savvy. Then move on to the Planning and Preparing for Hazardous Weather section, which offers in-depth information on topics such as how to prepare for and, if necessary, react to lightning, windstorms, and hurricanes, as well as tips on reading the traditional signs for weather-related situations.
You’ll also discover tips and tricks for beating the heat, or the cold, and for properly preparing yourself or your Scouts for all outdoor excursions. Also, the site will help you look ahead. Starting Jan. 1, 2009, tours must include at least one adult that has completed Planning and Preparing for Hazardous Weather training.
So join the more than 9,000 fellow Scouts and Scouters who already have completed the training.
Simply find the Weather Hazards button in the E-Learning portion of the MyScouting Web site at www.scouting.org. If you have not been to the E-Learning section of the MyScouting website we suggest you read the brief overview on our council website, available through the More Information link below. |
| News - Den Chief Fast Start Training |
Posted Nov. 20, 2008 |
 Boy Scouts and Venturers can get a head start to den chief training online at Den Chief Fast Start Training.
Because the den chief’s job is so vital in retaining boys at all levels of Cub Scouting and during the transition to Boy Scouting, these Scouts need to learn the scope of their job and skills, including how to use and lead games, what factors contribute to an effective den meeting for Cub Scouts and Webelos Scouts, and how to work successfully with the boys and other leaders.
Boy Scouts and Venturers get all that and more when they go to http://olc.scouting.org and start absorbing the details of their new role. This course does not replace the full Den Chief Training course offered within the districts.
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| News - Getting to the 2010 Jamboree |
Posted Nov. 20, 2008 |
 Do you know what it takes to get your Scouts signed up for the 2010 National Scout Jamboree?
By now, you surely know the BSA’s 100th birthday bash will take place July 26 to Aug. 4 at Fort A.P. Hill in Caroline County, Va., near Fredericksburg and Washington, D.C.
You also know that about 43,000 boys and adult leaders will attend. Scouts will participate in plenty of exciting outdoor activities that include confidence courses, bikathalons, buckskin games, as well as hone their Scout skills, tune up their physical fitness, and learn lessons in environmental conservation and our nation’s heritage.
According to John Alline, BSA’s national jamboree director, participants will be selected by the more than 300 Scout councils across the country. Still, a quick study now of the qualifications will give them, and you, a leg up on the application process.
Scouts must have:
- received approval from their Scoutmaster or Varsity Scout Coach and the local council jamboree committee.
- attained the rank of First Class Scout.
- completed the sixth grade, or at least reached the age of 12 by July 1, 2010.
- attended a pre-jamboree training experience.
- demonstrated troop activity for at least six months prior to July 1, 2010.
- Additionally, Scouts cannot have reached their 18th birthday by Aug. 3, 2010, to be eligible.
For more information on qualifications for Boy Scouts or unit leaders, or to register, visit www.bsajamboree.org. To find additional information about the Connecticut Yankee Council Jamboree contingent follow the link in the More Information section below.
Start now to give your Scouts their best shot at joining the festivities. |
| News - Color Merit Badge Books |
Posted Nov. 20, 2008 |
 Look for a striking change in the design of the BSA’s merit badge pamphlets.
Instead of the long-standing black-and-white design, you’ll find them all in full color with snazzy photos that draw young readers to each adventurous topic.
Check out the hot-red convertible on the cover of Emergency Preparedness, the vibrant yellow tractor on Farm Mechanics, and the cool, blue water on Swimming. All three titles will see major revisions.
Other titles with updated information for 2008 include Auto Mechanics, Engineering, Lifesaving, Motor Boating, and Radio.
And with the debut of the new look, the series shrinks to 119 titles because of the merger of Architecture and Landscape Architecture into one pamphlet.
Pick up your new merit badge pamphlets, which will sell for $4.49 each, at the local Scout Shop in Milford, or place an order on www.scoutstuff.org |
| News - How to foil trailer theft |
Posted Nov. 20, 2008 |
 Imagine preparing to attend the fall district camporee with your Scouts and discovering that the troop’s trailer and all the camping equipment stored inside were missing. Besides ruining your trip, trailers and equipment are expensive to replace.
Phillip Moore, assistant director of the BSA’s Insurance and Risk Management Service, says a recent upsurge in stolen trailers and camping equipment is being reported across the United States. Since many chartered organizations such as churches and civic groups do not have the space to secure trailers and store equipment, which often is kept onsite in the trailers, they make an attractive target for thieves.
So if you don’t want to shell out thousands for new stuff, take the advice of the BSA’s Insurance and Risk Management Service, which recommends two easy steps to lock down your trailer and thwart thieves.
First, purchase a wheel lock similar to boots used by police officers on illegally parked cars. Find one by checking out a local boat dealership.
“The wheel lock is a visible deterrent and does not allow the trailer to be moved,” Moore says.
Second, always park your trailer so that its rear doors butt up against a wall or some other permanent structure. Situate it against parking blocks or a curb so that it cannot be turned or moved.
“Many trailers have locks that can be used on the trailer hitch,” he says. “But if a trailer hitch lock is the only deterrent used, thieves can still maneuver the trailer around. And once the trailer is moved, thieves can cut the lock and steal the contents.”
Of course, if the thieves want the trailer badly enough, Moore says, they still might get it. But a little extra effort, and very little expense, on your part can convince them it’s not worth the hassle. |
| News - Eagle Scholarship Opportunity |
Posted Nov. 20, 2008 |
The Sons of American Revolution Eagle Scout Recognition and Scholarship Program is looking for your application.
This contest is for Eagle Scouts that are 18 years old or younger in 2008.
What is in it for you?
• Recognition at CT SAR Branch Level
Note: There are 10 branches in Connecticut that are looking to recognize an eagle scout
• Medal, patch, and certificate
• Learn some history about your family tree and country
• It is fun
• Plus a fiduciary award from the branch
If you are selected the state winner,
you would receive:
• Recognition at the SAR CT State Level
• A $500 fiduciary award from the CTSSAR
• Automatic entry into the National SAR Competition where 1st place at the National SAR Level receives:
• Recognition at NSSAR National Level at the annual Continental Congress
• An additional $8000 fiduciary award from the NSSAR
See below for more contact information 7 requirements. Tim Wilkins CTSSAR Eagle Scout Program Chairman: Bluenote517@aol.com
CT Deadline: December 31, 2008
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| News - Centennial Scouting Coin Approved |
Posted Nov. 20, 2008 |
 President Bush recently signed into law the Boy Scouts of America Centennial Commemorative Coin Act (H.R. 5872) which authorizes the minting of 350,000 silver dollar coins in recognition of BSA’s 100th Anniversary in 2010. Only two commemorative coins are selected for U.S. Mint production each year, and minting of the coins for 2010 will occur between February 8, 2010 and January 1, 2011. For each coin sold, there is a $10 surcharge – representing a $3,500,000 donation – that will be made available to local councils in the form of grants for the extension of Scouting in hard to serve areas.
The Boy Scouts of America was founded on February 8, 1910. Since then more than 111 million youth have participated in Scouting’s traditional programs, including 248 members of the House of Representatives and the Senate. In the past four years alone, Scouting youth and their leaders have volunteered more than 6,500,000 hours of service in their communities through more than 75,000 service projects.
“It is a great honor for the Scouts to be recognized with this Centennial Commemorative coin. We thank the President, the House and the Senate, especially Congressman Sessions and Senator Sessions for their support,” said Bob Mazzuca, Chief Scout Executive, Boy Scouts of America. This is a treasured moment in the history of our organization and we are grateful for the millions of Scouts and volunteers who have served as the foundation of our success for nearly 100 years.”
The act received strong bipartisan support from both the House and the Senate. Introduced earlier this year to Congress by Congressman Pete Sessions (R-TX), an Eagle Scout with four generations of Boy Scouts in his family, the act received overwhelming approval with 403 Members of Congress voting for it. “Boy Scouts are a significant part of American culture, shaping the values, citizenship, and skills of millions of young men,” Congressman Pete Sessions stated. “From conservation to character building, the Boy Scouts 100th Anniversary celebrates the highest Scouting ideals of helping others and making communities stronger.”
Senator Jeff Sessions (R-AL), who also is an Eagle Scout, was the Senate sponsor of this legislation, which passed by unanimous consent on September 27, 2008. “I am pleased that the Senate has approved this legislation to mint a commemorative coin celebrating an important mark in the Boy Scouts history. Scouting has been a positive influence on millions of young men across the country,” said Senator Sessions.
H.R. 5872 legislation states that the commemorative coin must be “emblematic of the 100 years of the largest youth organization in the United States, the Boy Scouts of America.” The act also outlines other design mandates of the silver dollar including that it must show its designated value, the year 2010 and have inscriptions of the words “Liberty”, “In God We Trust”, and “E Pluribus Unum”. The coin will weigh 26.73 grams, have a diameter of 1.5 inches and contain 90 percent silver and 10 percent copper. The design will be selected by the Secretary of the Treasury after consultation with Chief Scout Executive Bob Mazucca and the Commission of Fine Arts. The selected coin design will also be reviewed by the Citizens Coinage Advisory Committee.
Earlier this year, the Boy Scouts of America kicked off a multi-year 100th Anniversary celebration. Over the next two years, BSA will reintroduce to America the contributions Scouting makes in communities across the country and the positive impact Scouting has on millions of young lives. The 100th Anniversary celebration will include major national events, activities, and initiatives to engage nearly 3 million youth and 1.2 million volunteers; an estimated 50 million Scouting alumni; and the general public. |
| News - Updated Adult Applications |
Posted Nov. 20, 2008 |
 Due to new Federal Regulations, the National Council of the Boy Scouts of America has updated the adult leader application form. Units are asked to no longer use the old applications. Outdated applications will be returned to the Unit and cannot be processed without additional information.
The most substantial change on the adult leader application is the inclusion of a Disclosure / Authorization form. This page contains the latest version of the language we must present to volunteers concerning the criminal background check process. This page must be signed by the adult applicant. The language meets recent changes in Federal Guidelines relating to criminal background checks.
A BSA adult application will be considered complete when it includes both the disclosure/authorization form as well as the application form, completed with the necessary signatures.
The youth applications have also been updated. You can download a copy of the new adult and new youth application through the link on this news entry. New applications are currently available at the Council Resource Center and will be at the upcoming September Roundtables. |
| News - 2007 Council Annual Report |
Posted Nov. 20, 2008 |
 When Tradition Meets Tomorrow . . .
The Connecticut Yankee Council is pleased to share with you the 2007 Annual Report.
Annually over 25,000 young men and women and 5,000 volunteer leaders participate in the programs of our Council. The Annual Report highlights their achievements and celebrates the continued success of Scouting in Connecticut.
The Council appreciates the continued support of our 5,000 volunteer leaders, the 500 chartering organizations for our Scouting units, and the over 5,000 annual donors. Your support is helping the traditions of Scouting to impact the leaders of tomorrow.
You can view the 2007 Annual Report on line or to request a copy, contact the Connecticut Yankee Council, B.S.A. at (203) 876-6868.
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| News - New Tour Permit Requirements |
Posted Nov. 20, 2008 |
 Two important requirements have been added to the Local Tour Permit, for all trips beginning January 1, 2009 and later.
• Youth Protection Training will be valid for two years from the date completed. For example, this means for a tour starting March 15, 2009, Adult Leaders must have completed Youth Protection Training after March 15, 2007. For Leaders currently completing Youth Protection Training on-line, the on-line "Trained" cards reflect a two-year expiration date.
• At least one Adult Leader must have completed "Planning and Preparing for Hazardous Weather" training. This is a new training program, only offered through the BSA On-line Learning Center. The course is well designed, has plenty of good information, and can be completed in approximately 45-60 minutes.
Click on "More information" for a link to the training and the new Tour Permit. |
| News - 2008 FOS - Character Under Construction |
Posted Nov. 20, 2008 |
 The 2008 Friends of Scouting Campaign - Character Under Construction - is underway! Your support of Friends of Scouting (FOS) is vital in Scouting's mission to instill values in young people.
FOS provides for liability insurance, leadership training courses, four first class outdoor camping facilities and special outreach programs for "at risk" youth in inner-city areas.
Your support of FOS allows Connecticut Yankee Council to provide quality summer camp programs at affordable prices. FOS dollars provide camp scholarships that give every youth the opportunity to attend summer camp.
Every gift helps to make a difference. Please help us change lives. |
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