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February 15, 2013
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Dear Scouter,
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Although a bit chilly, the 101st Valley Forge Pilgrimage & Encampment came off this weekend without a hitch. Over 2,000 Cub Scouts, Boy Scouts, and Venturers from Boy Scout Councils across the country participated in this oldest, annually-run Scouting event in the world. This year's theme was Women of the Revolutionary War with the Scouts learning about the likes of Martha Washington, Abigail Adams, Molly Pitcher, and other women who were present at the original Valley Forge Encampment from December 1777 through June 1778.
Many of these women followed their husbands throughout the Revolutionary War enduring the same hardships as the men. We learned that some of these women even disguised themselves as men so that they too could fight for the cause of freedom. However, most of the "camp followers" were in charge of baking and delivering food to the solders, washing clothing and blankets, and caring for the sick and dying.
Another important job of the camp followers was to serve as "water girls" carrying water to infantry troops and artillerymen during drill and battle. Artillery pieces in those days also needed a constant supply of fresh water to cool down the hot cannon barrel and to soak the rag tied to the end of the ramrod, the long pole used to clean sparks and gunpowder out of the barrel after each shot. Although Molly Pitcher was probably the nickname used for many a water girl during both the Revolutionary and Civil Wars, the most famous "Molly Pitcher" was Mary Hays who, with her husband William, was present at Valley Forge. It was later, during the Battle of Monmouth in the summer of 1778, when Mary Hays became the Molly Pitcher of legend taking the place of her wounded husband at the ramrod position of a cannon throughout most of the battle. We would all do well to take a lesson in loyalty and bravery from Molly Pitcher.
Yours in Scouting,
Dave Bryan
Editor
Visit www.colbsa.org often for the latest news on activities, training, and special events. Don't forget to take a look at the 2012-2013 Program Planning Calendar to help your unit plan fun and exciting activities.
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We need YOUR help to bring the most relevant news about the Cradle of Liberty Council to your inbox. Any feedback on this newsletter would be greatly appreciated, as would suggestions for material to include in upcoming issues. Please send any feedback or suggestions here.
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2013 Council Annual Recognition Dinner
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Don't delay - Sign up NOW! This event is close to selling out!
Come celebrate last year's accomplishments and help us recognize the distinguished service and achievements of some very special area Scouts and Volunteers. Our keynote speaker will be Nathan Rosenberg, a member of the National BSA Executive Board and volunteer chairman of the National BSA Marketing Committee. Awards to be presented include:
Silver Beaver Awards to Jeffrey Aster, Jack Coughlin, David Karr, Mark Kenney, Terry Moyer, Ron Pleis, & Alicia Tryon.
Venturing Leadership Award to Shannon Moran.
Heroism Medal & Certificate of Merit to Jonathan Thornton, Troop 32, Conestoga District. (See article below.)
"Prepared. For Life." Award to Mohammed al-Jumaili, Troop 177, Baden Powell District
When: Thursday, February 21, 2013
6:30pm Gathering, 7:00pm Dinner
Where: Conshohocken Marriott (Philadelphia Marriott West)
111 Crawford Avenue
West Conshohocken, PA 19428
Click here for the event flyer and to register online
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Calendar Planning Workshop
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STEM/Nova Committee Update
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A number of volunteers have been working hard to bring the BSA's STEM/Nova program to life. The group will be meeting to discuss goals and events for the future on February 26 at 7:00PM, in Room 341 of Holroyd Hall (also known as the Science Center) at La Salle University. ALL ARE WELCOME. If you are interested in helping in the future or would just like to stay in the loop, fill out the STEM/Nova Interest Survey now!
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NEW THIS ISSUE from the Camping Department...
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Camp Card Captains Training Are you a member of one of the more than 120 units who will be selling Camp Cards March 15 through May 12? The Scouter who will be leading your unit's Camp Card sale (your Camp Card Captain) needs to get to one of the Captains Trainings on February 20th at 7:30PM. Blue and Gold Placemats available NOW Need placemats to complete your decorations for your Pack's upcoming Blue and Gold Banquet? Stop by the Firestone Office and pickup as many as your group needs! They are first come, first serve! |
Camping Department Reminders
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2013 Resident Camps - DEPOSIT Deadline is March 1
To qualify for your $25 Early Bird Discount for both Cub Adventures at Camp Hart and Resica Falls Scout Reservation Boy Scout summer camp you need to have your $50 per person deposit in by March 1st. Haven't signed up for camp yet? Registration is online NOW!
Cub Adventures at Camp Hart is open and ready for registrants! Sign up now so you can qualify for the Early Bird Discount. What is there to think about? THIS is why your Cub Scouts signed up for Scouting!
Cub Pack Camp Promotions - Schedule one now and earn a $50 Gift Certificate to the Camp Hart Trading Post! We want to come to you! Request a Pack Camp Promotion... now!
Resica Falls Scout Reservation is filling up quickly. The Dining Hall option in weeks 1, 3, 4, & 5 are already filled to capacity and are closed. Openings in the Dining Hall still remain for Weeks 2, 6, & 7, but get your reservation in soon to secure your spot. Every week still has space for our In-Site Dining Option. Please contact our Camping Assistant Tracy Launders with any questions or to make a reservation.
Resica Falls Leaders Guide - Attention all Boy Scout Leaders! Take a look at the Resica Falls Leaders Guide! This guide has all of the program and administration details for camp this summer. Not yet signed up for camp? Bet this gets you excited to come to Resica Falls. Call Tracy in the camping department at (484) 654-9213. See you at camp!
Campership Applications - Don't forget, to receive a youth campership (camping scholarship) numerous signatures are required. The Campership Application can be downloaded here. Don't miss out. Remember, campership money is limited, so apply by MARCH 1, 2013.
2013 Camp Cards - How does 50% commission sound?
Attention! Vendors have been finalized for the 2013 Camp Card. Your unit does not need to pay in advance and there is no risk to you or your unit to earn money by selling Camp Cards. Simply pay for the cards you sell and return any unsold cards at the end of the sale. Check out the vendors list and sale details here.
Shooting Training - Are you interested in becoming a BSA Archery Director? USA Archery Level 1 Basic Instructor Course training is available. Follow directions here to sign up. Time is running out!
Call for Shooting Sports Certifications - If you have shooting sports qualification from BSA BB range master to NRA Training Counselor, please let us know! It takes less than 60 seconds!
Campmaster Training March 21- Our annual recruitment and training event for anyone interested in joining the ranks of the Council Campmasters is a great night of fellowship and sharing of best practices. Learn about the opportunities to earn a $100 credit toward future camping events through your service. Click here for more information.
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Upcoming Women in Scouting Event!
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Let's Play Outside! Saturday, April 6, 9 AM - 4 PM $10pp, BYO Lunch @ Camp Hart (Click here for flyer) One-Day Women in Scouting FUN Event Cradle of Liberty Women in Scouting (COLWIS) was formed to encourage women to get to know each other, to build up Scouting skills and knowledge, and increase the participation of women and Venturing girls in the wide world of opportunities in the BSA.
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2013 Wood Badge Training - Registration Now Open!
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 In 1911, Baden-Powell took the first steps in training Scouting's adult leaders by organizing a series of lectures for Scouters. He made great strides in the years that followed, culminating in 1919 with the establishment of Wood Badge training. Wood Badge recipients now number more than 100,000 Scouters around the world.
Wood Badge for the 21st Century is intended for all leaders in Scouting-Cub Scout, Boy Scout, Varsity Scout, and Venturing leaders, as well as council and district leaders. The focus is on leadership, not out-of-door skills. The object is to demonstrate the aims and methods of Scouting through the presentation of leadership skills, organizational tools, and a variety of activities based on the best of Scouting traditions and the latest in team development theory. In addition, participants will enjoy the fellowship of sharing the experience with volunteer and professional Scouters while having a great deal of just plain fun. For more on the purpose and goals of Wood Badge, please read over the Wood Badge Fact Sheet. This year's course will be held over two long weekends - September 7-9 and October 12-14. Registation is online NOW. Contact Gerry Myers with any questions.
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Jewish Scout Campership and Scholarship Opportunities
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 Attention Jewish Scouts! The Jewish Committee on Scouting offers a scholarship to reimburse the costs of attending Cub or Boy Scout Summer Camp. Please see this document for all the details! A college scholarship is also available to Eagle Scouts of the Jewish faith who have completed their Ner Tamid or Etz Chaim Religious Awards. More information on the Henry and Lorraine Addison Scholarship is located here.
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National Scout Jamboree Collector Patch Sets Now Available
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The 2013 National Scout Jamboree Cradle of Liberty patch sets and the new Unami Lodge Order of the Arrow Jamboree flap are now available for purchase. Jamboree Scouts please contact your Jamboree Scoutmaster to place an order. The Standard Set of nine patches sells for $50; the limited edition Stealth Set ( only 100 made) sells for $75; and the OA Set sells for $16. Click on the highlighted links for order forms. All prices include shipping.
T he 2013 CRADLE OF LIBERTY COUNCIL NATIONAL JAMBOREE Council Shoulder Strips are alsostill available for purchase. These sell for $10 each and are available for purchase either at the Valley Forge Service Center front desk or from any Scout signed up to attend the jamboree. All proceeds go toward our local council National Jamboree campership fund.
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USA Scouter Tour 2013
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Interested in visiting the 2013 National Scout Jamboree this summer? Why not join tour hosts David and Cindy Cooper from the Cradle of Liberty Council on this first class, 4-day vacation tour through the Virginias featuring the National Scout Jamboree at the grand opening of the BSA's newest high adventure base The Summit Bechtel Family National Scout Reserve in West Virginia. For trip details, please click here for the USA Scouter Tour 2013 brochure. To sign up, download the reservation form here.
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Updated Eagle Service Project Workbook
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The National Advancement Team has issued two new versions of the Eagle Service Project Workbook on the BSA web site.
A new "expandable" version has new functionalities including expandable text boxes and the ability to insert images in JPEG, GIF, TIF, and PNG formats. The National Advancement Team is interested in receiving comments that may further improve the experience with this version, email comments to the National Advancement Team.
The older "fillable" version has been updated with some minor changes.
Links to both versions of the workbook and other information for the final steps on the Trail to Eagle are available at https://www.colbsa.org/eagle-scouts/life-to-eagle/life-to-eagle-packet.html
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PA Speech Contest to Mark 150th Anniversary of Lincoln's Gettysburg Address
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The In Lincoln's Footsteps contest is open to any high school student who will be in 10th-12th grade during the 2013-14 academic school year and is enrolled in a public, parochial, private, charter or home school within the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. Students will be asked to submit a 270 word contemporary version of Lincoln's Gettysburg Address focusing on themes such as freedom, bravery, sacrifice, dedication and national purpose. Submissions will be accepted beginning February 12, 2013 and no later than April 1, 2013. The winner will be part of the official 2013 Dedication Day ceremonies in Gettysburg, Pennsylvania and receive a $5,000 scholarship.
Rules and additional information about the contest is available at www.inlincolnsfootsteps.com.
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Venturing Update
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Please mark your calendars for another great Venturing year to come!
Saturday, February 23 - Venturing Leader Specific Training - Aldan Union Church, Aldan, Delaware County
And of course...please hold the weekend of April 26-28, 2013 for another exciting Venturing Weekend at Camp Hart!
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Training Corner - Every Scout Deserves a Trained Leader!
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BALOO - Cub Scout Basic Adult Leader Outdoor Orientation
- April 13, 2013 at Drexel Lodge Park, Newtown Square. Contact Paul Heiney for more information.
- June 8, 2013 at Nelson Training Center, Musser Scout Reservation. Contact Bill Forbes for more info.
- September 22, 2013, location TBD. Contact Mark Kenney for more info.
Bullying Prevention - May 8, 2013 at Trinity Lutheran Church. Contact Bill Forbes for more info.
Chemical Fuel Safety - April 10, 2013 at Trinity Lutheran Church. Contact Bill Forbes for more info.
Cub Scout Leader Specific Training -
- March 2, 2013, location TBD. Contact Mark Kenney for more info.
- October 5, 2013, location TBD. Contact Mark Kenney for more info.
- October 19, 2013, location TBD. Contact Marty O'Connor for more info.
Den Chief Training - August 24, 2013, location TBD. Contact Bill Forbes for more info.
Den Leader Specific Training - November 13, 2013 at Trinity Lutheran Church. Contact Bill Forbes for more info.
District Committee Workshop - November 2, 2013, location TBD. Contact Bill Forbes for more info.
IOLS - Scoutmaster/Assistant Scoutmaster Introduction to Outdoor Leadership Skills
- March 15-17, 2013 at Nelson Training Center, Musser Scout Reservation. Contact Paul Heiney for more info.
- April 26-28, 2013 at Nelson Training Center, Musser Scout Reservation. Contact Mike Matusheski for more info.
- October 26-27, 2013 at Nelson Training Center, Musser Scout Reservation. Contact Jim Foster for more info.
Leave No Trace -
- May 17-19, 2013 at Nelson Training Center, Musser Scout Reservation. Contact Jack Munera for more info.
- September 13-15, 2013 at Nelson Training Center, Musser Scout Reservation. Contact Jack Munera for more info.
National Youth Leadership Training 2013- June 23-28, August 11-16, September 27-29 & October 4-6. Click here for more information.
OWL - Outdoor Webelos Leader Skills Training
- April 20, 2013 at Nelson Training Center, Musser Scout Reservation. Contact Bill Forbes for more info.
- October 26, 2013 at Nelson Training Center, Musser Scout Reservation. Contact Jim Foster for more info.
OWL/BALOO - October 19-20, 2013 at Nelson Training Center, Musser Scout Reservation. Contact Mike Matusheski for more info.
Pack Committee Training - September 13, 2013 at Trinity Lutheran Church. Contact Bill Forbes for more info.
Philmont Training Center 2013
The conferences at Philmont Training Center (PTC) are conducted each summer and fall by the various departments and committees of the National Council. The beauty of Philmont and the outstanding program offered to family members make a PTC conference a tremendous atmosphere for learning, sharing, fellowship, family togetherness, and Scouting spirit. Volunteers who attend return better trained and further motivated to serve their local Scouting programs. For a full list of 2013 conferences, visit www.philmonttrainingcenter.org. To register, visit www.myscouting.org
and click on "Event Registration."
Scoutmaster/Assistant Scoutmaster Specific Training -
- March 2, 2013, location TBD. Contact Mark Kenney for more info.
- March 16, 2013, location TBD. Contact Marty O'Connor for more info.
- May 11, 2013 at Aldan Union Church. Contact Jim Foster for more info.
- June 15, 2013 at Troop 84 Cabin. Contact Bill Forbes for more info.
- September 28, 2013, location TBD. Contact Paul Heiney for more info.
- October 5, 2013, location TBD. Contact Mark Kenney for more info.
- October 5, 2013 at Aldan Union Church. Contact Jim Foster for more info.
- October 19, 2013, location TBD. Contact Marty O'Connor for more info.
Trainer's EDGE
- February 23, 2013 at the Firestone (Valley Forge) Service Center. Contact Bill Robinson for more information.
- May 19, 2013 at the Firestone (Valley Forge) Service Center. Contact Robin Mazzanobile for more info.
This is Scouting -
- March 2, 2013, location TBD. Contact Mark Kenney for more info.
- October 5, 2013, location TBD. Contact Mark Kenney for more info.
Tiger Den Leader Training - October 9, 2013 at Trinity Lutheran Church. Contact Bill Forbes for more info.
Troop Committee Challenge - March 13, 2013 at Trinity Lutheran Church. Contact Bill Forbes for more info.
University of Scouting - Save the date: November 2, 2013.
Venturing Leader Specific Training -
- February 23, 2013 at Aldan Union Church. Contact Jim Foster for more info.
- March 2, 2103 at the Firestone (Valley Forge) Service Center. Contact Janet Hunter for more info.
Wilderness First Aid -
Wood Badge 2013 - September 7-9 and October 12-14. It's never too early to start thinking about Wood Badge! Registration is now online, including the option of making monthly payments. See the Wood Badge article above for more information.
Youth Protection Training -
- March 2, 2013, location TBD. Contact Mark Kenney for more info.
- October 5, 2013, location TBD. Contact Mark Kenney for more info.
- November 12, 2013 at Aldan Union Church. Contact Jim Foster for more info.
Youth Protection Training for Venturing - February 23, 2013 at Aldan Union Church. Contact Jim Foster for more info.
Mandatory Training Update:
- Scoutmaster/Assistant Scoutmaster Specific Training - Now required for all Scoutmasters, and by the end of 2013 for all Assistant Scoutmasters.
- All Unit Committee Chairs are to be fully trained by the end of 2012.
- Venturing Committee Chairs are exempt from position-specific training because the training will not be available until 2013.
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Health & Safety Tip of the Week: No Flames in Tents
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No Flames or Fuels in Tents - Ever!
Never use flames in tents, teepees, or snow shelters. This includes burning any solid, liquid, gel, or gas fuel; using features of tents or teepees that support stoves or fires; and use of chemical-fueled equipment and catalytic heaters. Source: http://www.scouting.org/scoutsource/HealthandSafety/GSS/gss12.aspx
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COL Eagle Scout Alumni Association
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Please note that the COL Eagle Alumni Association has changed their monthly meeting night from the 4th Monday of each month to the 3rd Monday of each month. The group gathers informally at the Marks Building in Philadelphia at 6pm for food, and the meeting starts at 7pm. Topics and plans include support for the Eagle Recognition and Reunion Dinner in May, a new scholarship for Eagle Scouts, a service day at Camp, and networking events.
Please feel free to join us at these meetings or contact Chairman Mark Chilutti at chilutti2000@aol.com for more information.
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The Gentleman's Merit Badge Series
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Announcing the kickoff to the Gentleman's Merit Badge Series and Young Professional Networking Group for Scouting Alumni in the Greater Philadelphia Area
Join us Feb. 27th from 6:30- 8p.m. at The Duke Barber Co., The Piazza at Schmidt's, 1001 N 2nd St Philadelphia, PA 19123.
Program will feature:
- Networking with up and coming professionals
- Complimentary Straight Razor Shaves
- Refreshments Courtesy of Yards Brewing Co.
- Fine Grooming and Shaving Technique presented by Master Barber William Brown
Note: Members in attendance will receive 25% off a future grooming appointment.
Please RSVP if you would like to attend. This event is open to all Scouting Alumni ages 22-40 who are looking to develop themselves professionally and enhance their careers at extraordinary networking events. Registration will open online soon at www.colbsa.org. For more information about this event or information about joining our young professional alumni group, contact Development Director Mark Saxon at mark.saxon@scouting.org.
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Spring Scout Programs at The Schuylkill Center
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Forester and Naturalist Webelos Activity Badges - Earn both in one day, Saturday, March 9th. The program runs from 10:00am to 1:30pm and costs $20 per Scout including all materials.
Environmental Science Merit Badge -This two-session course is being held Thursday, March 21st and Thursday, April 4th from 6:00-9:00pm. The cost is $35 per Scout which includes all materials.
For more information or to register for either of these programs, call 215-482-7300 ext. 110 or email crivera@schuylkillcenter.org.
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Wissahickon Valley Watershed Association Maple Sugaring Event
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Looking for a fun, local activity for your Cubs. Check out the Maple Sugaring Event going on at the Wissahickon Valley Watershed Association in Ambler on Sunday, March 3rd. Beginning at noon take a guided tour and learn about maple syrup from tap to table! See www.wvwa.org for more information and to register online.
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Temple Basketball Scout Day
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Come on out and watch Temple take on the University of Rhode Island on Saturday, March 2nd at the Liacouras Center at Temple University. Tipoff is at 2:00PM. Tickets start at just $10 and the Scout Day package includes participating in the High-Five Tunnel*, your pack or troop name on the Message Board during the game, a Temple hat for all Scouts 14 and under*, and a birthday celebration fro Hooter, the Owls mascot. Contact David Orr at 215.-204-7290 or DavidOrr@temple.edu for more information or to sign up.
*Based on availability.
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Philadelphia Soul Scout Night
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Join the Philadelphia Soul for this year's Soulful Scout Night on May 11, 2013. The Soul have put together an inexpensive, and let's not forget fun night, and yes your Scouts can also earn a badge. Tickets are just $15 and includes an event patch. The post-game event just for Scouts has 3 speakers to help the Scouts earn sportsman badges - coach, player and personal trainer for the team. Also there will be a fun filled obstacle course. Call John Tabourn, Manager of Group Sales, at 215-253-4900 X176 or email him at jtabourn@philadelphiasoul.com now to book your troop or click here for a registration form.
As they embark on their ninth season, the Philadelphia Soul are committed as ever to giving you a unforgettable fan experience on and off the field. One of the principles the team was originally founded on was making a difference in Philadelphia by giving groups a chance to have a personable experience with the team. In 2013 and beyond, the Philadelphia Soul would like to be remembered for their tremendous effort on the field and giving you all they had to make your SOUL experience a great one.
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Scout Events at the Wells Fargo Center & Tower Theatre
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Harlem Globetrotters - Friday, March 8th at 7pm, and Saturday, March 9th at 1pm at the Wells Fargo Center Bring your Scouts out to see the world famous Harlem Globetrotters when they bring basketball back to Philadelphia next year. Scout tickets are just $18 for units of 10 or more and include a patch. Also, don't forget to ask about the chance for your group to be a part of the show such as participating in halftime high five tunnels, meet and greets, and more!
For more information or to purchase your tickets for either of these events, please call Stephanie Nassib at 215-952-5637 or email snassib@comcast-spectacor.com.
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Scout Activities at The Franklin Institute
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Just for Scouts!
Camp-In
Spend the night at The Franklin Institute and join us on a design quest! Camp-Ins offer unique opportunities for Scouts and parents to work toward the requirements for a variety of achievements. Click here for more information.
Scout Days
Special themed programming days just for Scouts! The day may include General Admission to the Museum, an explosive live science show, a film in one of our three theaters, skygazing in the Joel N. Bloom Observatory, and a variety of activities to work toward the requirements for badges, belt loops, and pins!
Saturday, March 2, 2012 -- "What's in the Weather?"
For more information, call 215-448-1200.
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BSA Discover Credit Card -- Now Available!
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What is the Boy Scouts of America Discover� Credit Card (the "BSA Card")?
The Boy Scouts of America Discover Credit Card is a personal credit card with cash rewards on every purchase. Designed for adult members, volunteers, parents, and alumni to use everywhere Discover cards are accepted, the card is a great way to be rewarded for everyday purchases and support the BSA in the process.
Where can I use my Boy Scouts of America Discover Credit Card?
You can use your BSA Card to make purchases everywhere Discover cards are accepted. You can also use your BSA Card to get "Cash Over" at participating retail locations with no cash advance fees most credit cards charge.
Why would I get the Boy Scouts of America Discover Credit Card instead of using my current
credit card?
With the BSA Card, not only do you receive all of the benefits and cash back rewards Discover cards
offer, but you also support Scouting with every purchase. The BSA receives a percentage of all purchases with 50 percent of this revenue share benefiting local councils. Additionally, cardholders will have the ability to donate their cash back rewards to the BSA, as well as visit a Scout Rewards section where a selection of BSA products is available for purchase with their points.
Where can I get the Boy Scouts of America Discover Credit Card?
The BSA Card is available online at www.BoyScoutCreditCard.com.
What if I already have a Discover card?
The BSA Card is a new product, so you have to apply for it the same way you do for any new card.
Please visit www.BoyScoutCreditCard.com to apply.
What's in it for the Boy Scouts of America?
Imagine 1 million people using the BSA Card every day in the marketplace. With millions of swipes
taking place in thousands of locations nationwide, the Boy Scout brand will be presented to moms and dads, brothers and sisters, who might not otherwise have the Boy Scouts at top of mind. Having the Scout Card in a wallet injects the Boy Scout brand into places not normally reached.
Does the Boy Scouts of America receive any of the revenues?
Yes. The Boy Scouts of America receives a percentage of every purchase. The national council and local councils split the revenues 50/50.
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Thank you for being a part of the Scouting movement and the Cradle of Liberty Council! If you have news or information you'd like to see in upcoming issues of the BSAT, please don't hesitate to e-mail news@colbsa.org.
Sincerely,
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Cradle of Liberty Council
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