RememberSchiff

http://blog.scoutingmagazine.org/2012/08/20/at-last-search-and-rescue-merit-badge-requirements-released/ What a disappointment, another dumbed-down, classroom merit badge. Explain, discuss, hypothetical scenario, talk to some people... Left hand salute

I will erase the Espanol sections and use that space to insert a copy of both sides of my insurance card.

Fixed link - sorry about that.

As always, careful planning went into the development of the updated version, with input coming from councils, volunteers, and the Health and Safety Team." Gee I don't remember being asked. Have NO use for bilingual on the same form - now even smaller fonts. A preview copy of the record can be found at: http://www.scouting.org/filestore/pdf/680-001_preview.pdf (This message has been edited by RememberSchiff)

Probably this was BSA's mistake too, i.e., assuming laws and statutes in West Virginia would be like other places. Apparently this goes back to a 1944 West Virginia Supreme Court case. From Findlaw real estate is not exempt where owned by a [charitable] organization and is leased for private purposes, notwithstanding the application of the income from rentals to charitable and benevolent purposes and upkeep of the premises.  Central Realty Co. v. Martin, 126 W.Va. 915, 923, 30 S.E.2d 720, 725 (1944).   See also State v. McDowell Lodge, No. 112, 96 W.Va. 611, 123 S.E. 561 (1924) (holding that property of a charitable and benevolent organization, leased for profit, is not exempt even though rents are used to retire debt, for maintenance of property, and for charitable and benevolent purposes). IRS not the issue here, but everything to do with West Virginia real estate taxes. And as we know, all towns are hurting for money with non profits looking like the next frontier but that's another topic. My understanding, a favorable vote in both W.V. houses is required to bring a state constitutional amendment to the necessary public vote in Nov, 2014??? Another $0.02(This message has been edited by RememberSchiff)

"Minneapolis (August 15, 2012) - Polaris Industries Inc. (NYSE: PII), the leading manufacturer of off-road vehicles, today announced the company has donated a total of 28 Polaris all-terrain vehicles (ATVs) and safety gear to the Boy Scouts of America's Northern Star Council's Tomahawk Scout Reservation, the second largest Boy Scout camp in the nation, and the Northwoods Camp, run by The Salvation Army, the world-wide leader of social, youth and rehabilitative services. The donation, valued at $100,000, is part of Polaris' long-term partnerships with the two organizations, focused on youth ATV safety practices and outdoor sports. "Our partnerships with Boy Scouts of America and The Salvation Army offer outstanding opportunities to demonstrate how ATVs can be a positive educational tool for youth," said Scott Wine, Polaris CEO. "By introducing young people to the sport in a manner that emphasizes the importance of safety and responsible ATV ownership, Polaris can entice a new generation into the powersports community while providing a great experience for thousands of young people." The Boy Scouts of America's Northern Star Council's Tomahawk Scout Reservation, located in Birchwood, Wis., is the destination for approximately 6,500 Boy Scouts, Webelos and adult leaders every summer. The new ATV program at the camp encompasses all aspects of safe ATV operation and ATV maintenance. Boy Scouts enrolled in the program also have the opportunity to earn merit badges for their participation. " http://www.4-traders.com/POLARIS-INDUSTRIES-INC-14008/news/Polaris-Industries-Inc-POLARIS-INDUSTRIES-DONATES-0-000-IN-ALL-TERRAIN-VEHICLES-TO-LOCAL-YOUTH-14463520/ I still have my doubts but have not seen this program in action.

Following from http://www.mysanantonio.com/news/article/W-Va-Boy-Scout-reserve-seeking-property-measure-3790767.php "The Summit Bechtel Family National Scout Reserve cannot lease its facilities to anyone but charities without jeopardizing its tax-exempt status." "The proposed amendment would open the Summit to some of its corporate sponsors, McGowan (BSA lawyer) said. AT&T, for instance, has pledged $50 million and will put its name on a grass amphitheater that will accommodate up to 80,000 people, he said. That company wishes to host events there, McGowan told lawmakers." "McGowan said these facilities can draw both from the area community and beyond the state's borders, for anything from a music concert or a board of directors' meeting to a wedding." "We have the dilemma of not being able to allow other organizations to use it," McGowan said. Maybe change the name as well - The Resort at Summit. Who would they book for music concerts - John Tesch? A fine kettle of fish. My $0.02,

From Charleston Gazette "There's already talk that Bridge Day festival organizers might be interested in leasing the Boy Scouts' new stadium for concerts. But the Scouts can't lease out the amphitheater and other facilities to outside groups without jeopardizing its tax-exempt status. McGowan said the Summit would host only a small number of public events -- mostly concerts -- each year. The Scouts also may temporarily lease out other Summit facilities, including camping sites, a "Leadership Excellence Center," "Better Body Health Center," and technology center, McGowan said." More info http://sundaygazettemail.com/News/201208140245

Ha you got me , pre-coffee posts are offten subjeck to tpyos... I heard some local group(s) had some interest in booking rock concerts at the Summit's 80,000 seat "amphitheater on grass. But some stupid with a flare gun, Burned the place to the ground. Smoke on the water and fire in the sky. (This message has been edited by RememberSchiff)

To maintain tax-exempt status while renting Summit facilities, including an 80,000 seat stadium, to non-charitable groups, the BSA would need an amendment to the West Virginia Constitution "Current state law would only allow charitable institutions to use it for a charitable purpose. A bill calling for a vote on a proposed constitutional amendment passed the state Senate earlier this year but was not taken up in the House of Delegates." http://www.wvmetronews.com/index.cfm?func=displayfullstory&storyid=54357&type= IMO, it is a stretch to get it both ways when it comes to taxes, particularly when you start competing with tax paying businesses, but maybe we'll see Monster Trunks Derbies at the Summit?

In general is it worthwhile to ask about camping on military bases? To whom should such an inquiry be directed? Definitely, particularly if there is an airshow or other public base event that weekend . Usually one contacts the base Public Affairs Office. (This message has been edited by RememberSchiff)

Back when I was a kid, I often watched an early morning tv show called "The Big Picture". Here's a 28 minute episode "U.S. Army and the Boy Scouts" that I watched more than 50 years ago, about the time I joined Cub Scouts. Very cool back then having soldiers and West Point cadets teaching rifle shooting.

"A generous contribution from the Lowe's Charitable and Educational Foundation has made it possible for local councils to present selected Eagle Scout candidates with a $100 prepaid gift card to be used toward their service projects." More details and link to application form here http://www.scouting.org/scoutsource/trailtoeagle.aspx

I doubt anything happens but I do not know for sure so I used "former?". I would hope their medals and sashes are stored as the future always holds the promise of reconciliation. Ignoring these letters would be discourteous. God forbid, their returned medals and sashes are sold on Ebay ... now that would be a PR disaster. Another $0.02 (This message has been edited by RememberSchiff)

An online list of 100+ turn-ins and their letters. http://eaglebadges.tumblr.com/ I sincerely hope each former? Eagle receives a personal response letter from National. My $0.02

Agreed. Those interviewed were uncomfortable and their comments guarded. It is what it is, McCollin (SE) said. Every local council has to deal with it as best they can, based on the makeup of their constituents and customers. Were trying to do the best we can here. Like politics, scouting is local. My $0.02

from Barre Montpelier Times Argus http://www.timesargus.com/article/20120812/THISJUSTIN/708129867

No claim by Glenn. Because of his "Boy Scout" character, many just assumed John Glenn had been a boy scout. He wanted to join Boy Scouts but there were too few boys thereabouts so he and his buddies formed a club called the Ohio Rangers. They even used an old Scout Handbook. In the media, I have heard Congressman Ryan referred to as a Boy Scout though I have not found any mention of a scout background on his website or wiki bio. I hope he was scout. My $0.01 for rambling

Why? Do you think there is some sort of conspiracy? No, I just want to be more accurate about Congressman Ryan than I was about Senator John Glenn.

VP Candidate Paul Ryan was an actual Boy Scout, http://www.scouting.org/About/FactSheets/Congress.aspx Not disagreeing, but has anyone found info on Congressman Ryan's scouting background? I only found mention of YMCA summer camp. Along with about 200 other congressmen, he cosponsorrd Peter Session's House Resolution 716 - the designation of a National Eagle Scout Day Aug 1,2012 to commemorate the contributions made by Eagle Scouts of the Boy Scouts of America. As I understand, it got stuck House in Committee on Oversight and Government Reform as Aug 1,2012 slipped by.

I would like to read the letter. Can anyone here transcribe it? If the tone is intimidating that would just be counter-productive to the source. Retirees could just comment off the record as apparently one did for the article or anonymously blog. Even if in place, anti-disparagement clauses become difficult to enforce. I too bristle whenever I hear a talking head use corporate-speak words like "stakeholder"... seems out-of-place in Scouting to this old scouter. And don't call me a stakeholder. My $0.02(This message has been edited by RememberSchiff)

http://thescoopblog.dallasnews.com/2012/08/boy-scouts-hq-does-not-want-retirees-talking-to-reporters-about-controversial-issues.html/ Aug 2, BSA retirees received a letter from Stephen Medlicott, National Director, The Marketing Group (I thought he was Director of External Communication ???). Retirees were asked not to talk not to reporters regarding certain issues. When the above reporter questioned if this was intimidation, Deron Smith, the BSAs public relations director, responded Scouting takes all issues surrounding youth protection extremely seriously, and therefore, as part of our standard operating procedure, we engage our stakeholders by keeping them up to date on relevant developments, Corporate policy or bullying your own retirees? My $0.02

Apparently just one adult, the 4 scouts & asst. scoutmaster were tubing down river. The attack occurred about 2 hours before the scheduled pickup point with scoutmaster. Scoutmaster was back at camp. Some gripping detail here about the scout response. http://www.dailyfreeman.com/articles/2012/08/10/news/doc5024686ddb810044721518.txt?viewmode=fullstory

And at least one church says they've broken ties with the council due to this policy - "After the Tribune report emerged, Rev. John Echert, pastor of Holy Trinity Parish in South St. Paul, Minnesota, told LSN that he immediately broke his churchs ties with the Twin Cities group" I could be wrong, my understanding is that was Father John's first response but then he learned that inclusion was by local option and not compulsory. See my earlier post of his church bulletin Aug 5 REFLECTIONS PARISH SCOUT UPDATE, page 8 of this post.

Unless there is a related drop in membership or $$$, why would National mess with Northern Star's success now? Father John's statement shows that CO's can still control their scouting program and set their own membership policies (inclusive or not) and scouting goes on.