Wednesday, November 16, 2022

December Campout - Wilderness Survival

 



Permission forms for the December Wilderness Survival campout at Worth Ranch are due at our November 28 meeting.

Tuesday, November 15, 2022

 


YOUTH PROTECTION POLICY 

Youth Protection Training is required for each adult on the unit charter, and all adults registered in Scouting in the Longhorn Council. 

*All adults must have record of current YPT certification through the end of 2023. So what this really means, we all need to take our YPT now. Yes, you..Yes, you that has their YPT expiring on March 2023. Yes, even if it expires November 2023. 
 
*You will not be able to complete your renewal if you, the registered adult, has a YPT certificate that is set to expire during 2023. 

*Training can be completed online through https://my.scouting.org.

Monday, November 14, 2022

Court of Honor tonight

      


Court of Honor is tonight at 6:30pm.  Join us as we celebrate all who have advanced in rank and/or earned merit badges and awards in the past quarter.  

Friday, November 11, 2022

Veteran's Day 2022

 Veterans Day originated as “Armistice Day” on Nov. 11, 1919, the first anniversary of the end of World War I. Congress passed a resolution in 1926 for an annual observance, and Nov. 11 became a national holiday beginning in 1938. A celebration to honor America's veterans for their patriotism, love of country, and willingness to serve and sacrifice for the common good.



Today we pay homage and give thanks to all of those who have served this great nation of ours from the United States Navy to the United States Army to the United States Air Force to the United States Marine Corps to the United States Coast Guard and each branch of reserves.


Scouting has a history rich in military service as well.  Robert Baden-Powell, the father of Boy Scouts, was a British officer with a long military career.  Much he learned along the way in his military career directly correlated with how he established scouting.  As it stands, many of our current military academies are home to a considerable amount of Scouts - over 1/3 of the cadets at West Point were involved in scouts and 16% are eagles; over 20% of the Air Force cadets were in scouting and 12% are Eagles; and 25% of the Naval Academy midshipmen were in Scouts and 11% are Eagle Scouts.  Though it's not the only way, it's definitely a great path to being a part of something much bigger than yourself.
So, today, we humbly give thanks to those who have signed their name on the line and said, "Whatever it takes... I'm here for America."  Those are the kind of courageous men and women we honor today. Some interesting facts from History.com about veterans: The brave men and women who serve and protect the U.S. come from all walks of life; they are parents, children and grandparents. They are friends, neighbors and coworkers, and an important part of their communities. Here are some facts about the current veteran population of the United States.


There are approximately 21 million military veterans in the United States.
  • 16.1 million living veterans served during at least one war.
  • 5.2 million veterans served in peacetime.
  • 2 million veterans are women.
  • 7 million veterans served during the Vietnam War era (1964-1975).
  • 5.5 million veterans served during the Gulf War (representing service from Aug. 2, 1990, to present).
  • Of the 16 million Americans who served during World War II (1941-1945), about 620,000 are still alive.
  • 2 million veterans served during the Korean War (1950-1953).
  • 6 million veterans served in peacetime.
  • As of 2014, 2.9 million veterans received compensation for service-connected disabilities.
  • As of 2014, 3 states have more than 1 million veterans in among their population: California (1.8 million), Florida (1.6 million), Texas (1.7 million).
  • The VA health care system had 54 hospitals in 1930, since then it has expanded to include 171 medical centers; more than 350 outpatient, community, and outreach clinics; 126 nursing home care units; and 35 live-in care facilities for injured or disabled vets.


We remember your sacrifice. We honor your patriotism. To quote President Coolidge, "The Nation which forgets its defenders will be itself forgotten.”

Don't forget to join us tonight if you're in town at 7pm at the Keller Field of Honor for a flag retirement ceremony conducted by Troop 32.

Wednesday, November 9, 2022

Annual Slideshow - WE NEED YOUR PHOTOS!

 


Our annual Troop Slideshow is coming up on December 5. Be sure to join us as we take a look back at everything we've done as a troop over the past year. It's amazing to see how much we've accomplished in 12 short months, and it's great to remember how much fun we've had!



If you have pictures from this year's events, we would love to include them. Send them to the Troop email at KellerTroop1910@gmail.com, or upload and share them to our troop Facebook page or better yet, upload them to the Troop's Google Photo Drive. Our Historian will be putting together a fantastic show for all to enjoy.

Monday, November 7, 2022

University of Scouting

 


Although you can take most training courses for just about everything needed online through the my.Scouting portal, nothing beats tribal knowledge and networking when it comes to training.  Something you will hear many of us tenured leaders say is that "every Scout deserves a well-trained leader!"  

If you are new to Scouting, new in a particular Scouting volunteer position, or perhaps you want to step up to offer assistance in a supporting role, the University of Scouting will have courses offered for just about everything under the sun from the basics in Cub Scouts to becoming an Eagle mentor.




Saturday, November 19 is the Longhorn Council's University of Scouting. If you haven't registered, there is still time to pick your courses and make a day of it. Check out the Event Guide HERE

Registration ($30) is open now through November 13.
Walk-in registration is $35


In-person courses are at Tarrant County College's Trinity River Campus in Fort Worth.

(While walk-in registrations are allowed at a higher price point please consider the logistical nightmare for your volunteers who are teaching... they're busy preparing materials, handouts and such.  The courtesy of an advance registration allows them to do their job and ensure enough materials are available for those in attendance. Pre-registration is just the kind thing to do.  A Scout is kind. Register in advance.  Thankyouverymuch.)

Check in is from 8a-9a

Classes begin at 9a and last until 12p

Lunch is from 12p-1p at the TCC cafeteria (not included in registration. You may bring your own or buy something there)

Afternoon classes are 1p-4p

Closing ceremony






We encourage you to take your training to the next level and attend this year's University of Scouting.

November Campout - Highland Games

 


November's campout is the annual Longhorn Council Highland Games at Camp Tahuaya (Belton, TX) November 11-13. Featuring professional Scottish Highland games weights, hammers, and much more. You will compete in fun and challenging Celtic tests of strength, endurance and skill. Highland Games is both an individual event and a team event for groups of 4-8 participants from Venture Crews, Teams and Troops at Camp Tahuaya.

There are 2 age classes for youth in all of the events. “Light Weight” are age 11-14 years, and “Heavy Weight” are 15 and older.” There is also a Venturers Class, an Adult Class, and an Adult Coed Class. Team and Individual Awards will be given in each class.

Competitions are “Toss” events that go for distance and “throw” events go for height. Events are Traditional Events with professional Highland Games Equipment, plus several NEW Events. We add a few Scouting touches for safety in some events, like helmets.

EVENTS

Turning the Caber. A caber is a 16-20 foot long pole that is tossed end-over-end. The object is to balance the Caber (pole) vertically over your head, run forward and toss it so that it flips end over end and lands vertically. We use a lighter variant of the 90 to 120 pound logs the Scots use but it’s fun just the same!

Sheaf Toss. What’s a Sheaf? A sheaf is a 16-20 pound bag of hay (10-12 pounds for the light weights). What do you do with it? Hurl it straight up into the air over an adjustable crossbar with a pitchfork. It’s High Jump with pitch forks. Highest toss wins.

Weight Throws. Pick up the weight in one hand, sling it from side to side to gain momentum and throw it the farthest … or as far as possible.

Clachneart. It’s a rounded stone and you throw it – like a shot put. You can spin if you want. Distance Counts.

Braemar Stone. What’s a Braemar Stone? Well, it’s like the Clachneart, except bigger and you can’t move when you toss it (no shot put moves). Again distance counts.

Hammer Throw. Now using professional Scottish hammers! Another throw for distance event. 

Farmer’s Walk. In the farmer’s walk, the competitor picks up two weights, each weighing up to 150 pounds and walks around a series of pylons. The winner walks the farthest. We’ll go a little light on the weight: you’ll use hay bales, bulky but not nearly as heavy. You get the idea… 

Pumpkin Slaying. Demonstrate your swordsmanship as you slay a pumpkin with a Scottish Claymore sword! . . . if you can hit it!

Battle Axe Throw. The battle axe was issued to the 78th Fraser’s Highlanders, a military regiment from the Highlands of Scotland. The axes were light enough to be used with one hand and heavy enough to dent or puncture armor. The axes used in the competition are lighter than the original weapons, but safer to throw. In competition, the axes are thrown at increasing distances towards a target. The winner is the individual who’s axe, thrown from the greatest distance, strikes and sticks blade first in the targets.

The Fell Race. The fell race gets its name from the hills of Northern England where it originated. It’s a non-traditional endurance test of running and cross-country skills over rough terrain. This cross country race typically features several natural and man-made barriers. This event is just for the Fit! 

Tossing the Wellie. Legend has it that this originated when Scottish husbands wore their muddy boots in the house. In retaliation, the wives threw the boots back at the husbands as they ran from the house to avoid the wives wrath. This game is all about distance and staying between the lines.

As you can see, it's one feat after another... all while wearing traditional Scottish kilts. 
It's going to be a great time for all!

Volunteers Needed

 



The UMW (United Methodist Women) at Keller UMC will host the annual Sharing the Joy event this weekend, November 12-13, 2022.   This is an alternative gift market, to support local and international non-profit and fair-trade organizations. It will be in the Family Life Center (FLC).  See the link above for some of the vendors coming to the sale.

Keller UMC has asked our Units for volunteers to help the vendors unload cars and bring in their goods on Saturday morning, 8:30–10 am.  And then do the reverse on Sunday afternoon, 1–2:30 pm.  Service hours will be awarded.  Please observe normal YPT practices.

 

This is not a heavy lift – if we have 5-6 Scouts on each day, it will be perfect. This is the camping weekend so if you are NOT attending the campout, please consider assisting.  


Reach out to: Tonya Anderson tonyaanderson001@gmail.com 817-437-9419

Recharter & Dues DUE TONIGHT

 


TROOP MEETING TONIGHT

And, at the meeting is a VERY IMPORTANT DEADLINE --the final opportunity to pay your RECHARTER MEMBER DUES!



All adults rechartering MUST have a current YPT (that does not expire at anytime during 2023) or they will be not be included in the recharter, so bring a copy of your YPT cert to be sure (individual emails were sent to those with expired YPT).

If you have not turned in forms/paid/made arrangements for payment, then you will be DROPPED from the Troop roster, so please pay your dues!

Please reach out to Suzanne Sampson with any questions and while you're at it, thank her for all her hard work on this Recharter process for the Troop!

Youth fees are as follows:

$75 BSA National Registration Fees
$12 Longhorn Council
$75 Troop Dues

$162 - for 2023 Youth Registration.  

(If you'd like to add Scout Life magazine, add another $15)


Adults fees are as follows:

$45 BSA National Registration Fees
$12 Longhorn Council

$57 - for 2023 Adult Registration

PLC Meeting

     

There will be a 6:00 pm PLC Meeting tonight before the Troop Meeting. 

All Patrol Leaders, Assistant Patrol Leaders, elected positions and the SPL team should plan to attend.

Monday, October 10, 2022

Youth Leadership

 


Need to know who to ask?  Our Youth Leadership Page has been updated to reflect the most recent elections. 

October & November Campout Forms -- DEADLINE for BOTH 10/17


October's Campout is at Lake Whitney State Park and will focus on Cooking.  October 21-23 Campout Permission form is attached and due 10/17.  Merit Badge worksheets available HERE

October Campout Form








November's Campout is at Tahuaya Scout Ranch in Belton and will be the Highland Games.  November 11-13 Campout Permission form is linked below 10/17 also, along with the additional fees required – slots are going fast to attend this campout, and we want to be sure everyone has a chance to sign up, so we are getting it out there as early as possible. There are extra fees to attend this campout (Troop is paying $20 portion of Scout fees in that regard).

and a HUGE

to Michael Hunt -- as we would not have been able to attend Highland Games this year without him!  He does an outstanding job as our Outdoor Activities Coordinator – most of his efforts are behind the scenes, so I just to say THANK YOU MICHAEL HUNT for all of your hard work for this Troop!

Again -- DEADLINE FOR BOTH FORMS IS OCTOBER 17

Parade Is Tonight

   As a reminder tonight there is... 


But we DO look forward to seeing you at the Keller High School Homecoming Parade to walk with the GTRC Units' float!  Drop off is at First Baptist Church at 5:15 pm.

Fall Flower Fundraiser Pick UP

 


Don't forget that tonight is the Keller Homecoming Parade which will be closing several roads so your prompt arrival is appreciated since our volunteers can't depart until every order is picked up.  

Sunday, October 2, 2022

BSA E-Sports Tourney

  


The Boy Scouts of America is excited to announce the Fall 2022 Esports Tournament Series! What may have seemed like a far-fetched concept to Scouts 50 years ago is a serious passion of many Scouts today. That’s why the BSA has teamed up with Rally Cry to bring Scouts a tournament series this fall. Throughout the month of October, Scouts will be able to compete in single-day tournaments in Rocket League, Madden 23, and Smash Ultimate in separate age groups of 8-12 and 13-17!


Rocket League - 3v3 (all platforms)


Madden 23 - Solos (Xbox Cross-gen)


Smash Ultimate - Solos (Nintendo Switch)

The winner from each tournament and age division will receive a $100 gift card to the BSA Scout Shop! 


If you have any questions, concerns, or feedback about the BSA Esports Fall 2022 Tournament Series, please do not hesitate to reach out to our Tournament Admins on Discord or via email.


JOIN THE BSA DISCORD GROUP


Questions?  Click the image below to go to the FAQ page



Thursday, September 22, 2022

IOLS - Introduction to Outdoor Leadership Skills

 



Introduction to Outdoor Leader Skills (IOLS) 

Who should take this training? 
New Scouts BSA Scoutmasters (highest-ranking adult volunteer leader working with youth in a Scouts BSA Troop) and Assistant Scoutmasters 

Why should I take this training? 
Scouting’s outdoor program is a critical part of how the Scouts BSA program develops young leaders. While camping or participating in other outdoor events, your Scouts will challenge themselves to learn skills they’ve never tried before or maybe didn’t think they could do. In doing so, your Scouts will work together as a team to overcome adversity when things don’t go as planned; this is truly the magic of Scouting that no other program does as well. To safely offer Scouting’s outdoor program, however, you need a certain set of skills and knowledge – and that’s why you’re required to take Introduction to Outdoor Leader Skills (also known as “IOLS”) Training. You’ll learn how to build a fire, use an axe, cook outdoors, use a map and compass, responsibly care for the outdoors, and much more. Even if you weren’t a Scout as a kid, you’ll come out of this course looking and acting like a seasoned camper. This course, combined with Youth Protection Training and the Scoutmaster-Specific Training course, will make you a “fully-trained” Scouts BSA leader. 

When is this training available?
The training is generally offered in the fall and spring in different areas of our council (the “council” is made up of all 14 counties we serve in North Texas; the council is split up into geographic areas called “districts” along school attendance or county boundaries). We try to schedule the course to be available right around the same time as our fall and spring recruiting periods, so that as new adults join Scouting with their children, they can get trained as quickly as possible. The next training is October 8-9.

Where is this training offered? 
The course will take place at a camp property owned by the Longhorn Council (that’s us) or a different campground that’s a favorite for Scout units in our area. There is no online version of this course (you’re learning how to camp outside, after all). This training is offered by the Mustang District and takes place at Sid Richardson Scout Ranch in Bridgeport, TX

What is the cost of this training?
The course will typically include a $30 or similar fee to cover your food plus additional program materials you’ll use during the training. 

How do I sign up for this training?
Visit this link HERE.  Registration closes 10/3

How Can I Help The Troop


Every Scout’s parent(s) should be involved with the Troop in some way as follows in order to exemplify servant leadership to their Scout. Do so by stepping up to be either an Assistant Scoutmaster, being an active Committee Member, serving as a Merit Badge Counselor or assisting at any of our special events.

  • Assistant Scoutmaster (also referred to as an "ASM") – ASM’s help run the monthly campouts, as well as long-term camps, for the Troop, and also sign off Scout handbooks when Scouts show they have completed rank requirements. To be an ASM, you must complete an application for membership and pay the applicable BSA National and Longhorn Council Insurance fees. 
    • Qualifications:
      • Scoutmaster-specific training (we typically offer this training at the March Tenderfoot campout to any Adults that are interested)
      • Introduction to Outdoor Leadership Skills Training (IOLS) – Weekend campout of adults training with District volunteers to learn most of the Trail to 1st Class requirements of Scouts – conducted by Districts in the Longhorn Council (small fee for food etc)
      • Youth Protection Training (YPT) – all adults should already have this – https://my.scouting.org
      • Safe Sanctuary certified with the Keller UMC is greatly, greatly preferred, as are always in need of Safe Sanctuary certified Adults at campouts and other Troop activities, as required by our Facility Use Agreement.  ($15 fee)
  • Committee Member – Members of the Committee serve in various capacities, including but not limited to Treasurer, Merit Badge Coordinator, Advancements Coordinator, Membership Chair, Boards of Review Coordinator, Outdoor Activities Coordinator, Long-term Camp Coordinator, Medical Records Coordinator, Troop Training Coordinator, Committee Chair, and Members at large.  With a Troop our size Troop, we hope to have at least one back-up for each of these positions. To be a voting member of the Committee, you must be a registered adult volunteer and pay the applicable BSA National and Longhorn Council Insurance fees. 
    • Qualifications
      • Online training – Troop Committee for Scouts BSA https://my.scouting.org
      • Youth Protection Training (YPT) – all adults should already have this – https://my.scouting.org
      • Safe Sanctuary certified with the Keller UMC is greatly, greatly preferred, as are always in need of Safe Sanctuary certified Adults for Boards of Review, as required by our Facility Use Agreement.  ($15 fee)
  • Merit Badge Counselor
    • Qualifications
      • Fill out MBC application – obtainable from the Merit Badge coordinator in the Committee room or clicking the link above.  You must provide adequate information identifying education and/or experience as to your general qualifications for each chosen merit badge, and you are limited to no more than 16 merit badges.
      • Online training – Scouts BSA – Merit Badge Counselor Training - https://my.scouting.org
      • Youth Protection Training (YPT) – all adults should already have this – https://my.scouting.org
      • Safe Sanctuary certified with the Keller UMC is greatly, greatly preferred, as required by our Facility Use Agreement.  ($15 fee)
  • Special Event Volunteer
    • Christmas Party coordinator
    • Fundraising
      • Treasurer THIS NEEDS TO BE FILLED IMMEDIATELY
      • Flowers (Spring and Fall) coordinator THIS NEEDS TO BE FILLED
      • Art in the Square – Southlake coordinator
      • Scout Saver Cards (previously Camp Cards) coordinator
      • Courts of Honor coordinator (quarterly event)
      • Scout Sunday coordinator (annual in February) 
      • Merit Badge College coordinator (annual in January/February – 2 Saturdays)
      • As needed when the call for help comes out
    • Qualifications: Any adult having YPT could help with the above specific events. https://my.scouting.org 

Chartered Organization Community Service Event


 

Our Chartered Organization, Golden Triangle Rotary Club is hosting their annual fundraiser -- a Burger Battle -- Thursday, October 6 in Old Town Keller.  INFO LINK




Their plan is to utilize Scout volunteers (from all units) to work in the Kid Zone (bounce houses, face painting, as runners, and setup & cleanup) 

You do NOT have to sign up for the whole event (unless you just want to) but we are looking for a great turnout from our Unit!  

The event takes place from 5-9pm. 

A Signup Genius has been set up with three 2-hour shifts 

4:30 - 6:30 pm
6:00 - 8:00 pm
7:00 - 9:00 pm


Once the slots are filled to know the volunteer availability, the Rotary Club will assign duties for the event. If there is a younger Scout sibling that wants to help alongside an older Scout sibling, we can discuss.

SERVICE HOURS AWARDED

The Rotary Club's Foundation supports numerous local charities to include the Community Storehouse and Christ's Haven. Their fall fundraiser is a Burger Battle between all the restaurants in the Old Town Keller area. 

Mustang District Webelos Fair

 


Sunday, September 25, please come represent your Troop at the Mustang District Webelos Fair.  This is a recruiting event where area Arrow of Light Cub Scouts will visit troops as they begin their decision making process before they crossover in early March.  

Who:  Scout and Adult Leaders
Where: Keller Lion's Club
When:  2pm - 4:30pm
RSVP to Mr. Brown

Community Service Opportunity

 



Saturday, September 24 Keller UMC needs Scout help with their Garage Sale (service hours awarded) – please sign up for at least one of the 2 hour slots at the Sign Up Genius here: https://www.signupgenius.com/go/70A0844ACAF2DA3FE3-volunteers 

ILST

  



Saturday, September 24 (8a-2p) will be an ILST (Introduction to Leadership Skills Training) campout at the Scout House and is intended for any Scout elected into a leadership position or interested in holding an elected/leadership position in Troop 1910 who has not taken it before.

ILST is required for the Senior Patrol Leader ("SPL") team, in addition to NYLT/Twin Arrows training.  $5 food money is due to Ms. Picciano

Thursday, August 11, 2022

 



Howdy Troop 1910!  


There are so many fantastic Adult training opportunities coming up this fall!!  Get your calendar handy and register.   Each training title is a hot link that will redirect you to more info and registration.  
 

Let me know if you have any questions. 

YIS,

Heather Washington
T1910 Training Coordinator





We Want to See You at University of Scouting



University of Scouting is the largest, single-day training offered by the Longhorn Council. Classes are offered for both Scouts and adult leaders. There is also a midway with lots of helpful information and resources. Plan to join us at University of Scouting on November 19th at Tarrant County College- Trinity River Campus.

 

 What is the University of Scouting? The University of Scouting is a leader's learning adventure! It is an action-packed, fun-filled single day of supplemental training where you choose the classes you wish to take. Classes are led by experienced volunteers and professionals who will help you enhance your ability to deliver a fun and exciting program to the Scouts. 

The Latin phrase “ESTOTE PARATI” found on our shield means “Be Prepared.”  University of Scouting is designed to help you Be Prepared, further your knowledge, enhance your skills, and grow your network so you can better deliver the Promise of Scouting. 

 

2 Options for training – 

 

Virtual
Tuesday 11-15-2022 6:00 PM CT to
Thursday 11-17-2022 9:00 PM CT

 

In-Person
Tarrant County College Trinity River Campus
Saturday 11-19-2022 7:45 AM CT to 4:45 PM CT




  



BSA Aquatics Supervision Training

 

Worth Ranch
Friday 08-26-2022 8:00 PM CT to
Sunday 08-28-2022 5:00 PM CT

 

The goal of aquatics in Scouting is "every Scout a swimmer" This training empowers leaders to run aquatic activities safely. 

Longhorn Council Aquatics Committee invites you to join us for a fun weekend of aquatic training. Training starts at 8pm Friday night and will conclude Sunday no later then 5pm. This weekend event offers two trainings in one! Saving you $20 and an entire weekend! Training is for Scouts/Scouters 15+

Training includes printed learning resources, patch, and meals. Cost is $50 per person.

https://scoutingevent.com/662-61125



 

 

September 25-30 (Philmont Scout Ranch), October 7-9 & 29-30 (Sid Richardson)

 

 

 


    


Fall Climbing Instructor Course

October 21-23 (Sid Richardson)


 

 

Required Training

  • Youth Protection training is required for all BSA registered volunteers and is a joining requirement.
  • Youth Protection training must be taken every two years. If a volunteer’s Youth Protection training record is not current at the time of recharter, the volunteer will not be re-registered.

  

Monday, August 8, 2022

Service Opportunities


Do you need service hours? Here are a couple opportunities to fulfill those for the church, as follows (Note that these are not Troop events, so parents are expected to attend and supervise/help with their Scout):



Court of Honor Tonight

     


Court of Honor is tonight at 6:30pm.  Join us as we celebrate all who have advanced in rank and/or earned merit badges and awards in the past quarter.  

Monday, July 25, 2022

Deadline for Advancement and Awards

   


To ensure recognition at the August 8 Court of Honor, the deadline for Merit Badge submission is is today, July 25.

Tuesday, July 19, 2022

Eagle Scout Project Volunteers Needed

           



Ethan Evans needs assistance with his Eagle Scout Project.

Saturday, July 30 from 8am - 4pm

Location: Eagle Ridge Elementary School, 4600 Alta Vista Road, Fort Worth, TX 76244

Please wear your Class B, close-toed shoes, sunscreen, hat and bring a full water bottle.  Several pieces of equipment are needed, please note in the Sign-Up Genius what you can provide.

Sign up HERE 

Chick Fil A will be provided for breakfast workers and for lunch workers as well.  Double shifts - double chicken!  

Service hours awarded.