As you know, a new Cub Scouting program launches June 1, 2015 that will be more fun and exciting for boys, and easier to implement for unit leaders.  To ensure you are ready to make the transition, plan to attend a webcast on January 17, 2015.  You'll learn about the coming changes, how to prepare, and when resources will be available.  Multiple webcast times are available.  Click here for details and login instructions.

A new notification e-mail feature has been implemented as of December 2014.  This feature will automatically and regularly notify registered adult leaders who have not yet taken Youth Protection training, or whose training expired, or will expire in 30-60-90 days, about the importance of taking Youth Protection training. The notification includes a direct link to the online Youth Protection training course to complete.

Please note, this feature can be successful with notifications provided there's a valid, current e-mail account in each person's profile. Please make sure your profile is up-to-date at MyScouting.   

The Appalachian District has an immediate opening for a full-time Program Specialist. This position will work with unit and district volunteers, and community members in Muhlenberg and Reading school districts. Interested candidates must have: a desire to advance the BSA mission, ability to work days/ evenings/weekends, experience in special events, supervisory experience, experience recruiting and working with volunteers, the ability to work with the existing staff, and the ability to adapt.  Competitive salary, medical/dental benefits, retirement, and thrift savings plan

If interested please contact Brian Beddow at 610-926-3406 or brian.beddow@scouting.org.

The 2015 Friends of Scouting campaign will be underway shortly. Friends of Scouting is the annual campaign where Scouters, parents, alumni, and community members are asked to financially support Scouting in the Hawk Mountain Council.

The true cost of Scouting is much greater than what local dues and event or camping fees cover. Yearly registration fees directly support the National Council of the Boy Scouts of America and help provide program development and research, literature, and local council support. The Hawk Mountain Council uses contributions made through the annual Friends of Scouting campaign to:

• Provide camp scholarships to every Scout who needs help
• Maintain and improve Hawk Mountain Scout Reservation
• Organize new Scouting units and support existing ones
• Provide professional support and leader training
• Distribute program resources and regular communications
• Organize activities and events
• Offset general liability insurance costs to chartered organizations

Thank you for your support!

Have a Safe and Happy Holiday from the Safety and Risk Management Committee.

This is a time to reflect, celebrate and rejoice but below are some safety tips to keep in mind this holiday season.

Weather conditions ....Be careful of black ice while walking and driving, one wrong step can turn your Merry Christmas into a Pretty Painful experience.  

Aggressive Driving ...We all want to get to our favorite aunt's house or get done with our last minute Christmas shopping, but remember the bigger picture, you can save a life by slowing down and paying attention. You want to enjoy your time with family and friends, so think before you drive. 

Remember ------ DO NOT TEXT AND DRIVE! 

Keynote Speaker for our 2015 Annual Leadership Dinner will be Stacia A. Hylton.  Director Hylton is the current and first Female Director of the United States Marshals Service.  This dinner will be held on February 24, 2015 at the Crowne Plaza Hotel, Wyomissing, PA. Download a colorful brochure here.   

For sponsorship or registration details please contact Ray Eschenbach at 610-926-3406 or send him an email at ray.eschenbach@scouting.org.

The article contained in the link below has some good information about Scout accounts as governed by the IRS.  I would encourage you to read, view the podcasts and pass along to other members of your teams.

 http://blog.scoutingmagazine.org/2014/12/03/individual-scout-accounts/ 

Hawk Mountain Scout Reservation Staff Reunion Social 

The Hawk Mountain Scout Reservation (HMSR) Summer Staff Reunion Social and Job Fair ...Read More

Venturing Alfresco 

Boots and Paddles 

Paddle the Allagash Wilderness Waterway State Park, a magnificent, 92-mile-long ribbon of lakes, ponds, rivers, and streams winding through the heart of northern Maine's vast commercial forests.  Click here for additional information.  

Attention 2014 Camp Leaders!!!

If you attended camp at Hawk Mountain Scout Reservation (HMSR) as an adult leader during the 2014 season and did not receive your complimentary Camp Leader mug, please contact the HMSR office at 570.754.7552.

Come out and enjoy the excitement of Reading Royals Hockey!  There are 2 Scout Nights at the Reading Royals; Saturday, January 10, 2015 and Saturday, March 7, 2015. Both games start at 7:05 pm.  For more details and pricing click here.  

For information please click on topic title.  

Are you interested in becoming a Merit Badge Counselor? 

Reading Royals Color Guard - Showcase your pack or troop and have fun at the Reading Royals   

BSA Change in Unit Registration Status