RememberSchiff

Girl Scouts and other youth groups had been using classrooms free, but the Lynnfield school committee is now imposing a fee, $30 per youth annually, for the meetings. “First-grade Daisy Troop 77647 has 21 members,” said Diane Courtney, the service unit coordinator for Lynnfield Girl Scouts, “So, the troop would owe Lynnfield Public Schools $630 before their first troop meeting of the year. That’s equal to the profits earned from them selling 700 boxes of cookies.” “We leave the place better than we found it, so we don’t require any additional custodial services,” Courtney said at the meeting last month. “But in contrast, the use of school-space league sports requires much larger spaces that are in high demand and have more participants involved in the use of space for many more hours a week, including evenings and weekends. The need to accommodate spectators adds to the maintenance costs of fields and courts, requires additional custodial services, and impacts town traffic and parking lots.” The request is currently under review by the School Committee. More at sources: https://itemlive.com/2023/10/31/girls-scouts-dispute-need-to-pay-for-use-of-lhs-classrooms/ https://wbznewsradio.iheart.com/content/lynnfield-girl-scouts-looking-for-affordable-meeting-space/

Boy Scouts victims may lose out on funds over 'quick pay' deadline https://www.reuters.com/legal/government/boy-scouts-victims-may-lose-out-funds-over-quick-pay-deadline-2023-11-01/

@SolderedBugle welcome to scouter.com

As a parent, I want transparency of the problems/dangers my child might face and involvement in the proposed prevention and responses. All things in my child's life - school, sports, scouts. Mr. Pounder partially addresses these concerns about 6:00 in his video interview where he explains the need for new YP training to doubters. It's about explaining the WHY ... create an avenue where we take FEEDBACK as we are planning the training. We don't develop the training and say here it is! We are going to have a staged approach to this so we have a feedback cycle to check with folks in council and the VOLUNTEERS. Is this training exactly as we want it to be. Can you give us feedback as we go towards finalizing it. Wow what a paradigm shift for BSA that will be ~ RS

We now have two dedicated YP experts who are also skilled and experienced in speaking to the public and facing the media. I doubt either Mr. Pounder ("my views are my own") or Dr. Bourke could be muzzled by the BSA. When I heard Mr. Pounder was at the National Jamboree (he also visited Sea Base), I thought great, he and Scott Pelley would get together for a timely, unscripted 60 minutes interview with outdoor scouting activities in the background. Instead we have a controlled, soft interview in an Irving office . IMHO a Scott Pelley, or equivalent, interview of Mr. Pounder and Dr. Bourke would help educate the public and ourselves of our YP work going forward. My $0.02,

Marine reservists are building three new storm shelters at Camp ToPeNeBee (LaSalle Council, MI) Each 1,000-square-foot shelter has a walk-in basement for easy access and two separate exits, along with electricity and restrooms and meets FEMA construction standards. "Construction started about 18 months ago when the LaSalle Council reached out to the Marines to gauge their interest in building the structures." Scout Salute to our Marines, More at source: https://www.southbendtribune.com/story/news/2023/10/26/marine-reservists-help-lasalle-council-boy-scouts-build-storm-shelters/71301939007/

@youb welcome to scouter.com

Dr. Michael Bourke, PhD, and Chief Psychologist with the Behavioral Analysis Unit, United States Marshal Service, describes how the Boy Scouts of America's establishment and continued refinement of youth protection policies have made Scouting one of the safest programs for youth today.

From Scouts Australia It is with deep sadness that we inform our Scouting family of the passing of Lord Michael Baden-Powell, a dear friend to all in our movement. The grandson of the Founder of Scouting, Lord Robert Baden-Powell, 1st Baron of Gilwell, Michael succeeded as the 4th Baron Baden-Powell of Gilwell on December 28, 2019, after the death of his brother Robert. Michael’s profound commitment to Scouting was evident in his unwavering dedication to grassroots-level involvement. He wholeheartedly believed that attending Scouting events and engaging directly with Scout Groups during Section nights or special occasions was where he could give the most back to the movement he held dear. Michael’s love for Scouting was boundless, and it shone brightly through his infectious smile and the sparkle in his eyes. He found immense joy in immersing himself in the Scouting experience, forging deep connections with Scouts from all walks of life. Beyond his role as a noble ambassador, Michael selflessly dedicated his time and energy to the movement he cherished. He attended an enormous number national events and international events, leaving an enduring impact on Scouts around the world. His involvement extended beyond borders, as he served in various esteemed positions such as a B-P Fellow, a member of the World Scout Foundation, the Baden-Powell Foundation of Australia, and the Victorian Scout Foundation. Additionally, he served as a patron and close friend of Scout Heritage Victoria. Michael’s commitment to Scouting was reflected in his roles as a Scout Leader in the UK before migrating to Australia, where he continued his service in key positions within the Victorian Scout Branch. Michael was also a beloved member of Baden-Powell Lodge, where he embraced the principles of fellowship and service as a past Master. more at Scouts Australia Cheerful with an ever optimistic look towards the future of Scouting and Scouts. - a Scouter's Scouter. Have any Scouters around our campfire have stories about him? Please post. Scout Salute and Farewell, Sources: https://scouts.com.au/blog/2023/07/03/gone-home-lord-baden-powell/ https://www.scout.org/news/celebrating-lord-michael-baden-powell

Related IRVING, Texas – October 4, 2023 – The Boy Scouts of America (BSA) convened its inaugural meeting of the Youth Protection Committee on August 30, 2023, at the BSA headquarters. Comprising representatives from the BSA, six adult survivors of child sexual abuse within Scouting, Local Councils, Chartered Organizations, and industry experts, the committee is charged with further enhancing the culture of safety and accountability throughout the organization and its community. The committee has begun outlining a long-term vision for youth protection and safe Scouting, as well as the shared commitment to transparency and accountability. Additionally, the members are providing direction to the BSA as the organization pursues key projects to recognize survivors of abuse in Scouting and further improve youth protection. Newly appointed BSA Youth Protection Executive Glen Pounder expressed the organization’s unwavering dedication to becoming the gold standard in youth protection. “At BSA, we are dedicated to continuingly enhancing youth protection,” Pounder said. “We must remain alert to addressing evolving threats, and we must help empower youth to protect themselves.” Pounder also acknowledged the invaluable contribution of the survivors of abuse within Scouting who have joined the committee. He expressed gratitude for their bravery and steadfast commitment to creating a safe and secure environment for all youth involved in Scouting. “As we seek to set the tone for safety, not just at the BSA, but also among all youth-serving organizations and beyond, to have survivors help us with this work is crucial. Their strength is truly inspiring,” Pounder said. The Youth Protection Committee will continue to engage with BSA through discussion, consultation, and review with the Youth Protection Executive. The Committee will also provide valuable feedback and public recommendations on the BSA’s existing youth protection policies and procedures, as well as enhancements to the implementation of the organization’s youth protection training program. “This committee has a vital responsibility – not just to the Scouts in the program – but to the youth of America,” said Committee Chair Dr. Michael Bourke, a leading expert in matters pertaining to child exploitation and criminal behavior. “We look forward to taking on this challenge and we are committed to making a powerful and far-reaching impact on youth safety in our society.” The Youth Protection Committee will help ensure the BSA delivers on its commitment provide a safe and secure environment for all youth in Scouting, and that it takes all necessary steps to become the “gold standard” in youth protection. Source: https://www.scoutingnewsroom.org/press-releases/bsa-launches-new-youth-protection-committee-to-help-ensure-safe-scouting/

The Annual Election of the National Executive Board of the National Council of the BSA was held October 13, 2023. The slate of 47 members includes the reelection of 36 members and the election of 11 new members, eight of whom were recommended by BSA local councils. The BSA thanks 27 board members who are retiring and six who continue to serve the movement as emeritus board members as we downsize the board and implement term limits and other measures. Note: The 48th and last member is an unnamed abuse survivor. Click here for here for a complete listing of newly elected National Executive Board members and to view the Governance and Nominating Committee report which includes detailed information on the recent governance changes. The BSA’s National Executive Board 2023 Council Nominees for NEB (8 nominated, 8 elected?) Gary Crum, Laramie, WY Kaleen Deatherage, Portland, OR (leads task force for diversity, equity and inclusion) Vincent LaPadula, Greenwich, CT Ricky Mason, New York, NY (CEO Search Committee member) David Scott, Omaha, NE Danny Van Horn, Memphis, TN Dale Werts, Edgerton, MO Degas Wright, Decatur, GA NEB Nominees for NEB (3 nominated, 3 elected?) Andrew Miller, Boulder, CO (CEO Search Committee member) Robert Greene, Washington, DC Larry Simkins, Missoula, MT Continuing Board Members (36 nominated, 36 elected?) , At least eleven are also members of the 14 member National Executive Committee. Glenn Adams, Fort Worth, TX David Alexander, Phoenix, AZ Bray Barnes, Toms River, NJ Scott Beckett, Charlotte, NC Keith Clark, Lemoyne, PA Charles Dahlquist, St. George, UT Devang Desai, Coral Gables, FL (National Executive Committee member) Jack Furst, Flower Mound, TX (National Executive Committee member) Gordon Gee, Morgantown, WV Jenn Hancock, Kyle, TX Lyle Knight, Billings, MT Frank McAllister, Mesquite, NV Dave Moody, Lithonia, GA Ellie Morrison, Waco, TX Jose Nino, Montgomery Village, MD Dan Ownby, Houston, TX (immediate past National Chair so National Executive Committee member ) Lou Paulson, Walnut Creek, CA R. Doyle Parrish, Raleigh, NC Tico Perez, Orlando, FL Jeanette Prenger, Weatherby Lake, MO Frank Ramirez, Fort Collins, CO Jim Rogers, Reno, NV Nathan Rosenberg, Laguna Beach, CA (National Executive Committee member) Bill Rosner, Orlando, FL (CEO Search Committee member) Jim Ryffel, Fort Worth, TX Alison Schuler, Albuquerque, NM (National Executive Committee member) (CEO Search Committee member) Michael Sears, Annapolis, MD (National Executive Committee member) (CEO Search Committee member) Wesley Smith, Piedmont, CA Scott Sorrels, Alpharetta, GA (National Commissioner, National Executive Committee member) (CEO Search Committee member) Thear Suzuki, Dallas, TX (National Executive Committee member) (CEO Search Committee member) Brad Tilden, Seattle, WA (National Chair, National Executive Committee member) (CEO Search Committee member) Frank Tsuru, Houston, TX (National Executive Committee member, former National Chair) Jim Turley, Saint Louis, MO (National Executive Committee member) (CEO Search Committee member) Gary Wendlandt, New York, NY Jim Wilson, McLean, VA Tom Yarboro, Goldsboro, NC More at source: https://www.scoutingnewsroom.org/press-releases/boy-scouts-of-america-elects-new-national-executive-board/ Related:

"On Oct. 19, Carnival Cruise Line welcomed 30 scouts from the Aloha Council of the Boy Scouts of America for a visit on board Carnival Miracle while the ship was docked in Kahului. The visit was a gesture of appreciation for the group’s assistance with providing needed supplies following the wildfires in Maui. The scouts volunteered with Direct Relief to provide needed recovery kits with respiratory masks, gloves and other supplies after the fires." Some rowboat. Might be able to carry a council? More at source, including photos and what scouts did while onboard. https://mauinow.com/2023/10/21/boy-scouts-of-america-visit-carnival-cruise-line-in-kahului/https://mauinow.com/2023/10/21/boy-scouts-of-america-visit-carnival-cruise-line-in-kahului/

Found this recently regarding West and an earlier time.

@CharlesHubb welcome to scouter.com. Perhaps seek Christmas gift suggestions from the Scoutmaster or Troop Quartermaster?

Did some searching, In 2001, Four Tanzanian Boy Scouts went missing from the National Scout Jamboree and sought asylum. https://www.cbsnews.com/news/tanzanian-boy-scouts-want-asylum/ I was unaware that the UNCHR (United Nations Refugee Agency) has taught classes at international jamborees. Scouts sample refugee life at their international jamboree "...one of the jamboree's main boulevards, down the hill, in a tent tucked under the trees, UNHCR and STAR (Student Action for Refugees) run equally popular twice daily workshops for groups of 25-50 scouts using 'Passages' - a role play in which participants are forced to flee their home and seek sanctuary in another country. " 2007 (England) https://www.unhcr.org/us/news/stories/scouts-sample-refugee-life-their-international-jamboree 2019 (Bechtel) Scouts follow the refugee experience of Omar from Syria to Finland. https://www.unhcr.org/news/stories/scouts-gain-insights-after-stepping-lives-refugees "A scout is a friend to all, and that includes with refugees." Refugees have real problems... and we have to work harder to accept them." "The opportunity for the youngsters to connect with refugees is hopefully the first step on a journey to transform their schools, Scout groups, sports teams, and communities into more welcoming places for all", according to Secretary-General of the World Organization of the Scout Movement Ahmad Alhendawi.

"Multiple scouts and adults who participated in the 2023 World Scout Jamboree ...had applied for refugee status as soon as they arrived in South Korea for the global event, according to the legal sources. The justice ministry declined to disclose the number of people or their nationalities but plans to make a decision on whether to grant the application after conducting the necessary screenings." https://www.koreatimes.co.kr/www/nation/2023/10/113_361525.html

Judge Silverstein allows final compensation and reimbursement of approximately $246 million in professional expenses. This does not include legal expenses with Sidley Austin (12/18-2/20) prior to entering Chapter 11. https://casedocs.omniagentsolutions.com/cmsvol2/pub_47373/b54ff78f-8243-4007-9ff8-930e73d4d061_11541.pdf

Update Oct 4, 2023 The Ozark Trails Council has sold Frank Childress Scout Reservation to the Frank Childress Reserve Properties Committee, a not-for-profit organization. formed by a group of Scout volunteers. The 175-acre wooded property was purchased for $500,000, roughly 28% of the property’s assessed value of $1.8 million. It will be renamed Camp Childress. and will provide an affordable camping facility for multiple community groups: "The Ozark Trails Council will continue to operate three other camps: one near Pittsburg, Kansas; one on Table Rock Lake; and its main summer camp operation near Marshfield, Missouri." More at sources: https://sbj.net/stories/boy-scouts-council-sells-joplin-area-camp,86706 https://news.yahoo.com/frank-childress-scout-reservation-purchased-035900975.html

Update Oct 16, 2023: The Silicon Valley Monterey Bay Council of the Boy Scouts, based in San Jose, has agreed to sell the historic property to the Esselen Tribe of Monterey County, and two nonprofit groups: Camping Unlimited, which runs programs for disabled children, and White Stag Youth Leadership Development Academy, a Monterey group affiliated with scouting. The deal is currently in escrow and expected to close by the end of the year. For the Esselen Tribe, the property, which includes part of the Little Sur River, has deep spiritual meaning. The tribe’s members lived in Big Sur for 8,000 years before they were forced into Spanish missions in the late 1700s and early 1800s. Now they are slowly acquiring land again, reclaiming a sense of place and momentum. “Land is valuable to us for natural resources, and cultural resources,” said Tom Little Bear Nason, the Esselen tribal chairman. “It gives us room to breathe.” More at source including photos: https://www.mercurynews.com/2023/10/16/for-sale-historic-boy-scout-camp-in-big-sur-once-owned-by-william-randolph-hearst/ https://offplanpropertyexchange.com/news/historic-big-sur-property-once-owned-by-william-randolph-hearst-to-get-new-owners/249615/

Oct 3, 2023 - another look Spotted lanternflies help make smoky honey - great for honey bees and maybe good for us. As their regular food store dwindle, honey bees feed on the autumn honeydew excreted by mature lantern flies (forget for a moment plants killed by resulting mold). The honey made from the honeydew has "a weird taste that, at least in my experience, not too many people find palatable. I guess it’s kind of an acquired taste,” he says. “It kind of has a smoky, kind of maple-y taste to it, which sounds great, but it is kind of odd when you’re expecting honey, according to beekeeper Matthew Libhart. Robyn Underwood, Penn State Extension agriculture educator, submitted samples to several labs. "They’ve found it out-performs manuka honey, the honey approved by the Food and Drug Administration for wound treatment. The spotted lanternfly honey inhibits the growth of bacteria such as MRSA and E. coli." “No wonder it tastes like crap,” Underwood joked to a group of beekeepers last week. “It’s medicine.” Interesting reads: https://www.witf.org/2023/10/10/spotted-lanternflies-are-still-a-pest-but-the-smoky-honey-they-help-make-could-be-good-for-you/ https://lancasteronline.com/features/home_garden/spotted-lanternflies-are-the-worst-but-theyre-the-key-to-a-rare-dark-and-smoky/article_d9f6f9b0-2869-11ec-922b-0b5a1661f1cf.html

@Elizabeth0610 welcome to scouter.com

Oct 13, 2023 Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine signed a new law guaranteeing more settlement money to Ohio Boy Scout abuse victims. "...Ohio’s current civil statute of limitations in bankruptcy cases was 12 years. That’s now void for the next five years, meaning Boy Scout abuse victims filing a claim will receive all the money they’re owed through the settlement, rather than just 30 to 45% of it. Ohio is the first state to take advantage of the settlement’s provision allowing states to extend the statute of limitations, according to sponsors Republican Rep. Bill Seitz." @Eagle1970 Source: https://apnews.com/article/ohio-boy-scout-abuse-victim-4844328d24a9aabbfec9a0077c632303

Update Oct 6, 2023 "Judge Michael J. Garcia of the New York Court of Appeals denied an application filed by Thomas Murphy's defense team seeking to have his conviction overturned after previously being denied by a lower appeals court. The court gave no reason for the denial." “We feel relief that the verdict has been upheld and we have found justice for Andrew and Troop 161,” Alisa McMorris, Andrew's mother, said Thursday. “For our family there is still an emptiness we feel each day. Andrew will never walk through that door again. He will not graduate with his friends this coming June, and there is a deafening silence that echoes from his empty room.” more at source: https://www.newsday.com/long-island/crime/thomas-murphy-conviction-andrew-mcmorris-l7oxjf7a

New England weather has changed, it is now raining acorns. "Mass Wildlife calls it a potential masting year. Some years oak trees will drop all of their acorns together at the same time. It's an evolutionary process that works to overwhelm predators by covering the ground with acorns. The hope is that some survive becoming food if they all fall at once." More at source: https://www.cbsnews.com/boston/news/abundance-acorns-massachusetts-trees/

I have not recently heard the old axiom, "A Scout pays his own way."