It seems like school just started up, but we are already half way through October.  Before you know it, we will be busy with holiday commitments and clearing our sidewalks of our first measurable snow.  As with getting ready for the holidays and winter, there are several things that we need to do as Scouters to make sure that our Packs, Troops, and Crews are ready too.

Now is the time to follow up with any families that attended your fall recruitment activities.  They may have missed a meeting, and aren’t sure if they are still welcome to join.  A quick phone call from you can make the difference in getting that boy into Scouts.

Last week at the Quality Leader Event (QLE) your district commissioner distributed recharter packets.   Recharters are due December 8^th at the recharter turn in day at the Council Service Center.  The online recharter system is available now.  If you have any questions about recharter contact your commissioner or your District Director/District Executive. 

It is also time to finalize your 2013 summer plans for your Pack, Troop or Crew.  This Saturday at Camp Schoellkopf we will be holding our camp kick off for Boy Scout Troops.  You can learn about the great plans to celebrate 75 years at Schoellkopf.  We are also planning another great summer of fun for Cub Scouts at Scouthaven.  Plan to attend the kickoff on November 14^th at the Council Service Center at 6:30 PM.  We are also planning our first Day Camp for this next summer.  Watch for more details.  Summer camp is important for all our Scouts.  Studies have shown that Scouts that attend one of these activities are more than two times as likely to stay active in Scouts as those who don’t.  Make sure that all of your Scouts have an opportunity to go to camp.

Forester Webelos Activity Pin!  Due to the overwhelming interest in this activity, we have arranged to have it offered again on November 3rd at Tifft Nature Preserve.  Click here to register before its too late!>

Take part in a National book launch of The Skull in the Rock authored by world renown scientist Lee Berger and Award Winning Author Marc Aronson at WNED-TV Studios, Lower Terrace Blvd., Buffalo on Saturday, November 3rd, 9:30 am to 12 noon.  Penn Dixie is a co-sponsor with National Geographic, WNED-TV, along with Erie 2 BOCES, Lumsden & McCormick, and Barnes & Noble.  Registration is required for this FREE event on http://www.surveymonkey.com/s/skullwned or call 1-800-344-9611 ext. 2023. 

Books will be on sale at the program with autographing available. Proceeds of the books will be donated to Penn Dixie for educational programs.  Displays and activities will be provided by Penn Dixie, Past and Present Rock Shop and Dr. Donald Birdd prior to the 10:00 am presentation and after.  There is a special opportunity for Boy Scouts and Girls Scouts that attend in uniform and scouts can be entered a drawing for a free autographed copy of the book.  Ten copies will be given away to scouts in our area.  The audience size is limited and pre-registration is required.  THE SKULL IN THE ROCK is being promoted in Buffalo prior to a PBS Special program that will be in March 2013.

Want an exciting Community Project for your Troop?    Operation Christmas Child (OCC) is easy and fun.  It has been recently recognized by the BSA as an Official Community Partner. OCC is encouraging Scout units to pack empty shoe boxes with school supplies, toys, hygiene items, other small gifts and personal notes. These boxes will be collected in November and shipped to children in more than 90 countries who are suffering from war, famine, disease, natural disaster and poverty. Your troop can fill one shoebox or many.  There are badges for your scouts to earn, handouts for children to take home, empty shoeboxes are provided, etc.  We would welcome the opportunity to share the OCC Program with you and provide all the materials to get you started.  Just contact wnyocc@gmail.com or call Laurel Gould at 632-3009.

Exploring Veterinary Science Program sponsored by GNFC, Niagara Frontier Veterinary Society, and Medaille College for boys and girls ages 14-20.  An informational meeting will be held on Wednesday, November 14th, 7:00 – 9:00 pm

H206 Huber Building (Library), Medaille College, 18 Agassiz Circle, Buffalo, NY  14214.

There will be a presentation explaining the program followed by registration. Registration is $20; students under 18 must have a guardian sign the registration.

This is a “hands on” program for students thinking about a career in veterinary medicine, veterinary technology, or anyone who is interested in animals.  The program is conducted by a team of veterinarians led by Rene van Ee DVM, Amanda Schepis DVM, Danielle Puleo DVM.  Program Topics include animal care and handling, veterinary physical exam, surgical procedures, large and small animal medicine, exotics, radiology, feline/canine topics and aquatics, and much more.  Field trips may include an animal shelter, dairy and horse farms, and the Cornell College of Veterinary Medicine.  For more information, contact Greg Voyzey at 512-6209 or greg.vozyey@scouting.org.

Birchbark Expeditions, the Nationally Accredited BSA program hosted by the GNFC, operates one and two-week long high adventure canoe expeditions in Ontario’s Algonquin Provincial Park and nearby waters.  One of the best values in a turn-key high adventure program, a fully-guided Birchbark Expedition teaches the back country camping skills and canoeing techniques needed to explore the interior waters of Upper Canada.  With a custom itinerary that fits the needs of any crew, your Birchbark Expedition will surely be a memorable experience.

Reservations for the 2013 Season are now being accepted!  Secure your unit reservation for the 2013 season with a $400 deposit using the Birchbark Expedition 2013 Application.  To learn more, visit the Birchbark Expeditions information page or use the Information Request Page to request an on-site presentation for your troop/crew.

High Adventure,

the call of the Loon,
                         the still water of Algonquin
                                  awaits your Boy Scout Troop or Venture Crew

We expect the available crew slots for 2013 to fill rather quickly, so don’t delay!

A special offer from the Buffalo Bills!  The Bills are offering a special fundraiser for the GNFC by offering tickets for the December 9th game vs. the St Louis Rams at a cost of only $30 per person.  $10 of the proceeds benefits the Greater Niagara Frontier Council.  Click here to be directed online to purchase tickets>. 

Re-Charter Turn-In Day

The District Commissioner Staff will be accepting Charters on Saturday, December 8th from 9:00 am to 3:00 pm at the Council Service Center (2860 Genesee Street, Buffalo, NY 14225).

This will be a festive day, where Commissioners and Council staff will be able to work with you on your Unit’s Journey to Excellence award status, and review all your charter paperwork, make payment (bring unit check, leaving the amount blank), enjoy some refreshments and visit the Scout Shop while stopping in.

(You may bring your completed charter paperwork in sooner if you have it completed prior to December 8^th.)  Contact your Unit Commissioner, or District Executive Staff for more information.

GOT GAME?  SPORTS is the theme for the Spring 2013 Camporee will be at Reservoir State Park in Lewiston.  Reservoir Park has undergone massive improvements and has many new facilities.  At the camporee we'll have many popular, well known games; but we also know there are many games that troops have made up on their own and we want you to bring those.  If you have a game or activity that your Troop always looks forward to we want you to bring it to this camporee.  Please let us know at http://www.wnyscouting.org/survey/got-game

There has never been a Jambo like this. Ever.  It is not too late to sign up for the 2013 Jamboree, and this is something you don't want to miss.  Help to break in BSA's newest HIGH ADVENTURE camp, the SUMMIT BECHTEL RESERVE.  When you sign up you will go to the Jamboree, whether it is with a troop from a neighboring council or an additional troop from this council.  You have not missed your opportunity to be at the 2013 JAMBOREE.

Upcoming Camping Activities

COME JOIN US FOR A FUN FILLED TIME AT THE

Cub Scout “CUBOREE” at Camp Scouthaven, October 20th – 21st

Cub Scout and Adult partner.  Bring your tent and gear or come for the day; we supply activities all day Saturday, lunch and dinner, Sunday breakfast.  All this, and much more for $25.00 per person. We have a special guest “Glen Colton” for the campfire. Register on line by clicking here.

CAMP PROMOTION TEAM

The Camping Committee is looking for volunteers to promote Summer Camp to Packs and Troops.  Promote to 10 units and receive 1 free camp payment for a scout of your choice.  Camp promotion training will take place on October 18th, 7:00 pm at the Council Service Center.  If you are interested please contact Sue Gruber at 891-4073 ext 5209.

SUMMER CAMP KICKOFF

Camp Schoellkopf - October 20, 2012 at Camp Schoellkopf, Noon - ? 

Join us for lunch, followed by the presentation for 2013.  Please sign-up online.

Camp Scouthaven – November 14, 2012 at the Council Service Center, 6:00pm - ?

Join us for dinner, followed by the presentation for 2013. Please sign-up online.

PATCHES - Coming soon...     the 3 part camp patch and the campership CSP.  Watch for more details.

A Jungle Safari
The Journey through a Continent

 Come with us as we go on safari to visit a new region of Africa everyday!

One day we’ll be in the Savannah with it’s unusual scenery and the animals that live there.

The next day we’ll visit Egypt and it’s rich history.

The third day it’s into the jungles of the Congo to learn about it’s rain forest and it’s importance to the world.

The fourth day it’s a visit to Kilamanjaro and it’s surroundings

The fifth and final day of our adventure will bring us close and personal with all the animals we talked about- a visit from  Buffalo Museum of Science and “Nature Mary”.

Week #1

            Date:   July 8- 12, 2013

            Place  Lake Erie Social Club

                         3200 South Park Ave.

                        Lackawanna, NY  14218

                        Time:  9 AM- 3:30 PM

Week #2 “Firefly Week”

            Date:   July 15-19, 2013

            Place: Scout Service Center

                        2860 Genesee St.

                        Buffalo, NY  14225

                        Time: 5 PM- 9 PM

Week #3    

            Date:   July 22- 26, 2013

            Place:  St. Martin DePorres

                        550 N. Hampton St.

                        Buffalo, NY  1421

                        Time:  9 AM- 3:30 PM

Week #4

                        Date:   July 29- Aug. 2, 2013

                       Place: Camp Stonehaven

                        4670 Albright Rd.

                        Ransomville, NY  14131

For more information contact Army Leonetti at 891-4073 or army.leonetti@scouting.org

GET YOUR NEW SCOUTS REGISTERED!!  There are a number of Scouts out there that have just joined a new unit and are participating in events that are not currently registered.  The problem that arises is that these new Scouts are left unprotected and uninsured.  With the registration of each individual comes liability insurance, that in case a Scout gets hurt at a Scouting activity, and their parents do not have coverage, the Scout is covered by Scouting’s insurance policy.  If they are not registered they cannot claim insurance benefits.  Also, as long as these Scouts are not registered, they cannot earn any advancements or receive Boy’s Life magazine even if they already paid the subscription cost.  Another benefit is that we are now entering rechartering time for all units; if your applications are turned in, then the unit leader who is responsible for completing their respective unit’s charter does not have to manually enter each unregistered individual, they would automatically be entered onto the unit’s roster for them. 

Simply put, it is imperative that ALL new Scouts that are participating in the Scouting program are able to receive credit for what they are doing and that they are protected while doing it.  If for any reason, a unit leader cannot get the applications to the Scout Office, please contact your friendly neighborhood commissioner or District Executive and they would be more than happy to pick them up for you.

Order of the Arrow Ordeal Weekend

Brotherhood Conversion will be held on Sunday, October 28th at Camp Stonehaven.  Deadline for registration at the GNFC Service Center is Friday October 26th.  Walk ins are welcome.  The day will satart at 4:00 pm with light service to the camp, dinner, and conclude with your Brotherhood Ceremony. 

Click here to register online for this event.  OA - Brotherhood Conversion Sunday

Internet Re-Chartering is online and ready for you to enter your information…

Your District Professional Staff has your Re-Charter packets, call to make arrangements to pick up your packet!! 

GNFC is excited to offer Internet Re-chartering to your unit. We think you’ll love this method for re-chartering, because you’ll be completing the charter renewal information yourself—which ensures that it will be correct—and you can do it from your home or office, anytime that it’s convenient for you. It’s a secure, easy-to-use application accessed from the Council Web site.  Training will be available on the web based tutorial. 

If you have any questions concerning the rechartering process, please call the council office at 891-4073 or email questions to

Stuart.Schnettler@Scouting.org – Polaris 

Patrick.Covell@Scouting.org – Onondaga 

Russell.Etzenhouser@scouting.org or Greg.Voyzey@scouting.org – Red Jacket 

Here’s how to get started:
Select an adult to be the renewal processor for Internet Re-Chartering.

1.    Starting October 10, 2012 the unit’s renewal processor should gather re-charter material and log onto the council Web site (www.wnyscouting.org).

2.    Select First-Time User and enter the unit access code. This unique code is for your unit only, and is issued on the label on the front of the Charter Renewal Packet.

3.    Select the unit type and enter the unit number.

4.    Create a password as instructed.

5.    Complete the information requested on each screen. You can stop at any time, log off the system, and begin again where you left off by reentering your access code and password.

Here’s how to wrap it up:

6.    When you’ve completed all the information to re-charter the unit, click the Submit button.

7.    Print the Unit Charter Renewal Report Package, which includes the charter renewal application and lists of new members, transfers, multiples, and no-fee adults. Acquire the appropriate signatures on the application, then take the entire packet along with new applications and registration and insurance payments to the council turn-in meetings or your Unit Commissioner.

Key Dates …

Charter Renewal Packet Distribution: Units will be able to pick up their packets at the Quality Leaders Event on October 10, 2012. 

Internet Charter Renewal starts:  October 10, 2012.

Submit your charter renewal at the Council Charter Renewal Turn in day (or sooner):   Saturday, December 8, 2012 (Council Service Center, 9:00am – 3:00pm) see the flyer included in your re-chartering packet and join the fun and celebration!

Or if you’re not available on December 8^th, you can stop in the Council Service Center during the week of December 10 & 11, 2012 from 9:00 am to 7:00 pm, bring to the December 12, 2012 QLE at 7pm, or December 13 & 14, 2012 at the Council Office from 9:00 am to 7:00 pm.

 

Re-Chartering Changes; Charter Fee changed to Unit Liability Insurance Fee

This change was made to cover the increased cost of insurance coverage costs that BSA provides to our units.  With those increases it was announced that what is now known as the unit charter fee will be called the unit liability insurance fee.  The general liability insurance program receives 100 percent of this fee.

The fee will be increased to $40 from $20 effective January 1, 2013. This means the new fee will begin with units that have a December 2012 charter renewal date (a charter period beginning January 1, 2013).

Units are required to pay the annual unit liability insurance fee of $40. This fee is submitted with the unit’s charter renewal application. This fee helps defray expenses of the general liability insurance program.

The general liability insurance policy provides primary liability insurance coverage for registered adults and for all chartered organizations on file with the BSA. The coverage is for liability arising out of their operating a traditional Scouting unit. This policy provides coverage for claims alleging negligent actions that result in either personal injury or property damage.

Chartered organizations do not need a certificate of insurance. The chartered organization endorsement is a part of the insurance policy contract and is enforceable under the policy contract.

There is no coverage for those who commit intentional or criminal acts. Liability insurance is purchased to provide financial protection in the event of accidents or injuries that occurs during an official Scouting activity.

Benefits of Complete Uniforming

Benefits for Boys

     A uniform give boys a sense of belonging
     A uniform gives boys a sense of pride
     A uniform encourages proper behavior

Benefits for Leaders

     A unfirom gives leaders a sense of belonging
     A uniform gives leaders a sense of pride
     A uniform affects the attitudes of boys

“Falling” into Autumn Savings

First and most importantly, there is a change that affects Tax Exempt Purchases at the Scout Shop.  In compliance with the New York State Tax Laws and EFFECTIVE IMMEDIATELY in order for a unit purchase to be considered tax exempt it must be paid for with Cash, a Unit Check, a Unit Debit Card, or Unit Gift Card.  We can no longer accept Personal Credit Cards or Personal Checks for Tax Exempt Purchases.  If anyone has any questions please see Brandon Rueger for more details.

Between now and October 25^th the Niagara Frontier Scout Shop is clearing out their spring and summer apparel and we are marking these t-shirts and hats down an extra 20%.  Prices start as low as $4.66- Items and sizes do vary.

Starting on October 26^th and running until November 9^th every BSA^® Brand Sleeping Bag will on sale for 30% the original price.  We carry sleeping bags that offer both mummy and classic designs, and include Aegis^® protection.  Bags do vary in degree ranging from 0 degree to 30 degree so stop on by and check ‘em out.

Also starting on October 26^th and lasting until November 1^st we are having a week long pocket knife sale.  Certain Boy Scout Pocket Knives will be marked down 25%.  With the holidays around the corner if your scout has this on his wish list now is the time to stop in and take a look. 

If you have not already done so, please check out the updated Scout Shop web page on the Greater Niagara Frontier Website.  The page now includes our upcoming promotions with dates and details as well as our phone number, fax, and hours.  Check it regularly to keep updated with everything going on in the shop including newly mentioned promotions.  You can get to it by clicking on the following link: http://www.wnyscouting.org/openrosters/ViewOrgPageLink.aspx?LinkKey=47570&orgkey=1977

Brandon Rueger, Store Manager
Niagara Frontier Scout Shop
2860 Genesee Street
Buffalo, NY  14225
Phone: 716-891-1689
Fax: 716-891-1910

Brandon.Rueger@scouting.org