Trapper Trails Council, BSA

The Beginnings of the New Camp Hunt

2010-10-12T21:37:00.006-06:00

Thanks to a large donation by TIFIE Humanitarian the scenes around Camp Hunt are beginning to look better and better with each passing day. The addition of 4 new sail boats, 2 new powerboats, new docks, and a new nature center have improved an already strong program. Inside the lodge the bathrooms have been completely redone, and the kitchen has a new convection oven, and tilt skillet to go along with a new tile floor. The outside of the lodge has also received a face lift with the lower third of the building finally getting the rock finish it deserved. New stairs will dress the backside of the building and a new entry way will be added to the front that will be ADA compliant. New green roofing has been put on all of the building and a new lawn has been added to the flag ceremony area. A new First Aid building has been completed and old cabin has been completely restored to look like new. A new fence will dress up the camp and new trees and shrubs will be planted to spruce up the camp.

The biggest improvements to Camp Hunt will be the addition of the new boathouse. This will be a two story building with living quarters on the upper level and boat storage and a work shop on the lower level. A look out tower will be added to the north end of the building and a covered deck will face Bear Lake. A new shower and bathroom building will be built at the north end of camp in the center of all the campsites and a second shower and bathroom will be built on the south end of camp for our High Adventure participants.

New lawn at the Flag Ceremony Field

Restored Cabin

New First Aid Building

Rock Finish on Lodge

Come see the new Camp Hunt. It will blow you away.

More pictures to come as work progresses.

Adventure Base 100

2010-10-01T21:54:00.007-06:00

Thousands of Utah Scouts and families visit Adventure Base 100.

Adventure Base 100 is a traveling Semi truck that breaks down into an scouting activity center for everyone to enjoy. The Adventure Base 100 truck has been canvasing the country with a purpose of sharing the 100 year birthday celebration of the Boy Scouts of America with the entire country. The Semi made it's stop in Utah at the South Town Mall and scouts from Trapper Trails Council, Great Salt Lake Council, and Utah National Parks Council shared in this wonderful experience.

Thanks to the National Council of the Boy Scouts of America for providing the Adventure Base and thank you to the many volunteers that staffed this event.

The climbing wall seen in the pictures has been donated and will be a permanent part of Camp Fife.

Bike the Bear - Great accomplishement

2010-08-24T11:43:00.005-06:00

4th Annual Bike the Bear proved to be a great accomplishment. Bike the Bear is a 5o mile bike ride around Bear Lake. Some of our more serious riders chose to tackle the 100 mile ride by riding around the lake twice. The event is the perfect opportunity to get in the 50 mile bike ride required for the cycling merit badge and to be part of something a little bigger than your typical 50 miler. This year we had 650 riders finish this great accomplishment. Most riders make this a two day event by staying the night at beautiful Camp Hunt and sharing a spaghetti dinner on Friday night. Then early Saturday morning the ride begins and ends in Garden City, UT.

Rest stops are set up every 10 miles where you can get food and drinks as well as take a little break to rest your legs.

Come join us next year for this spectacular event.

Union Pacific Railroad Honors 100 years of the Boy Scouts of America

2010-04-12T11:58:00.002-06:00

Union Pacific Railroad unveiled the UP No. 2010 Boy Scouts of America Locomotive, created as a tribute to the organization's centennial celebration. The UP No. 2010 honors Scouting's 100-year impact on the nation and the many Scouting enthusiasts in Union Pacific's work force and communities.
"Union Pacific and the Boy Scouts of America have played leadership roles in shaping America's history. With the UP No. 2010, we are proud to celebrate 100 years of Scouting, progress and patriotism," said Robert W. Turner, Union Pacific senior vice president-Corporate Relations.
"We are deeply honored by the tribute Union Pacific has given to Scouting through the creation of the commemorative locomotive," said Bob Mazzuca, Chief Scout Executive of the Boy Scouts of America. "We also owe a great deal of gratitude to our UP employee Scouting alumni base, which has spearheaded the movement to create the UP No. 2010. Their efforts mean that for years to come, the locomotive will serve as a reminder of the impact millions of Scouts have had on this country for 100 years." (http://www.up.com/)

Utah Grizzley Hockey Team Announces Scout Night

2010-02-26T11:43:00.004-07:00

CAMP WITH THE UTAH GRIZZLIES!! Friday, March 12th @ 7pm

Celebrating 100 Years Of Scouting!!

Don’t miss Scout Night 2010 at the E-Center!!

CAMPERS
• ALL NIGHT CAMPING – Camp out at the E-Center after the game
• MOVIE & SKATING - After the game, camper will skate on the Grizzlies ice and watch a movie on the big screen
• WORK ON YOUR BADGES – Get your skating badge!
• FREE SNACKS - Snacks will be provided for campers
• BREAKFAST - Campers will get a breakfast at 7:30am

ALL PARTICIPANTS
• SHOW OFF YOUR SCOUT PRIDE - Wear your uniform to
the game!
• NAME IN LIGHTS - Each troop will be announced over the
PA with the troop name in lights on the Big Screen…..so
make some noise!!
• SPECIAL SCOUT SEATING - Scouts and their families will be
in specially reserved seats so everyone sits together! You’ll
be right down in the action in your Lower Bowl seat!
• FAMILY FUN - Every participant will receive a ticket to the Grizzlies game and get to enjoy
three hours of fun and excitement together !

RESERVATIONS
$25 Campers (Includes everything listed above)
$10 Scout Night Ticket (Good for Grizzlies Game)

RESERVE A SPOT FOR YOUR TROOP NOW!
To reserve your group or for any questions contact the Daniel Haupert with the
Utah Grizzlies at 801-988-8021.

2010 Report to the Governor of Utah

2010-02-26T11:30:00.004-07:00

In conjunction with the Great Salt Lake Council and the Utah National Parks Council, Scouts and Venture youth from the Trapper Trails Council presented Utah Governor Gary Herbert the report of Scouting for 2010. A memorable occasion for these young men and women, The Governor then declared 2010 as BSA year in the State of Utah.

Utah Attorney General Mark Shurtleff served as master of ceremonies for the event. Also present was BSA's Chief Scout Executive Robert "Bob" Mazzuca. Bob took a few minutes to thank the leadership of the State of Utah for its support of the Scouting movement, noting that nearly 10% of Eagle Scouts in the United States of America came from Utah in 2009.

To a room packed with reporters and Scouting supporters, Governor Herbert expressed sincere appreciation to all Scouts for their service to the State, recognizing the great leadership that Scouting provides (and produces) for the State.

The Trapper Trails Council was represented by 8 youth: 5 Cub Scouts (1 Tiger Cub, 2 Wolf Cubs, 1 Bear Cub, and 1 Webelos Scout), 1 Boy Scout, 1 Varsity Scout, and 1 Venture Youth.

Council Recognizes 4 Men For Distinguished Service To Youth

2010-02-26T11:12:00.002-07:00

On February 12, the council presented the Whitney M. Young and Scouting…Vale la Pena awards to 4 deserving individuals.

The Whitney M. Young award was created to recognize outstanding services by an adult or an organization for demonstrating involvement in the development and implementation of Scouting opportunities for youth from rural or low-income urban backgrounds.

The purpose of the ¡Scouting…Vale la Pena! Service Award is to recognize outstanding services by an adult individual or an organization who has demonstrated involvement in the development and implementation of Scouting opportunities for Hispanic American/Latino youth.

As recipients of the Whitney M. Young Service Award, Mr. Jack Greene and Dr. Noall E. Wolff and as recipients of the Scouting. . .Vale la Pena award, Mr. Carlos Roundy and Mr. Mike Hall.

Jack Greene currently serves on the Trapper Trails Council Scoutreach committee. Jack is extensively involved in his community, serving as a Cache Valley Multicultural Committee board member, and director at the Ogden Nature Center, just to name a few. Jack has also served as a Learning for Life leader and Scoutmaster. Jack’s work is dedicated to serving middle school aged youth, high school youth, and university students.

Dr. Noall Wolff currently serves Scouting youth in the Bear Lake District. As a member of the medical staff at Bear Lake Memorial Hospital, Dr. Wolff in known for promoting Scouting in the Bear Lake Valley. His zeal for the Scouting movement is unmatched by most. Dr. Wolff has given leadership as a District Chairman, and as a member of various district subcommittees.

Carlos Roundy currently serves on the Trapper Trails Council Scoutreach committee. Carlos has been heavily involved with the Multicultural efforts in Cache Valley. Currently, Carlos serves as an Assistant Scoutmaster to a Latino scout troop in Cache Valley. Carlos is dedicated to give inner city youth the opportunity to experience the outdoors through camping.

Mike Hall provides a positive image of Scouting in the Hispanic American/Latino community. Mike served as a Unit Commissioner to 3 Hispanic American/Latino units for 2 ½ years, continually extending the image of scouting as he visited his assigned units weekly. One of Mike’s strengths is his ability to continuously help Latino Scout units resolve problems and improve all aspects of their unit operations. He helps the youth to lead as they better understand the aims and methods of Scouting.

The Trapper Trails Council extends sincere congratulations to these 4 men for their efforts in blessing the lives of youth in the Trapper Trails Council.

Ogden City Council Recognizes the 100 year Anniversary of the BSA

2010-02-26T11:01:00.003-07:00

On February 16, 2010, the Ogden City Council recognized the Trapper Trails Council, Boy Scouts of America. Council member Niel Garner read a proclamation prepared. Following the reading of the proclamation, the council voted unanimously to adopt the proclamation. The proclamation was then presented to Trapper Trails Council Scout Executive Mike Marchese.

A highlight of the evening was a strong presence of Boy Scouts at the meeting; some in attendance to work on their Citizenship in the Community Merit Badge, others there representing the BSA. The pledge of allegiance was led by Troop 4, sponsored by the 1st Presbyterian Church in Ogden. Troop 4 is the oldest consecutively chartered troop in Ogden. It was an impressive sight to watch each member of the troop be presented to the council, with each Scout in attendance having the opportunity to state his name, thus having his name recorded as an official part of the minutes of the city council meeting.

As the largest city in the council, the Trapper Trails Council wishes to recognize and express appreciation to Ogden city for its support of the Trapper Trails Council and the Boy Scouts of America.

Trapper Trails Council Inducts Leadership for 2010

2010-02-26T10:48:00.006-07:00

On February 12, 2010 the Trapper Trails Council Conducted its annual business meeting. At the annual business meeting, council officers took their oath of office. These council officers, all volunteers, make up the Council Executive Committee, Executive Board, and Advisory Board Members. Cub Scout Wesley Elmore led the executive officers in their pledge.

For 2010, the council executive committee comprises the following individuals:

Council President: David Wadman
Council Commissioner: Rulon “Bob” Osmond
Vice President over Administration: Jerry Toombs
Vice President over District Operations: Brent Hatch
Vice President over Program:
Vice President over Training: Val Radmall
Vice President over Camping: Tim Parkinson
Vice President over Properties: Russell Tanner
Vice President over Scoutreach: Kurt Rifleman
Vice President over Relationships: Mike Gailey
Vice President over Marketing: Kenny Wright
Vice President over Membership: Ange’ Workman

Vice President over Learning for Life: Noel Zabriskie
Vice President over Finance: Robert Stringham
Council Treasurer: Lorenzo “Rennie” Bott
Legal Counsel: David Knowles
Immediate Past Council President: David Rich

Reed Summers Recognized for Efforts as Council Commissioner

2010-02-26T10:44:00.002-07:00

On February 12, 2010 the tenure as Council Commissioner for Reed Summers came to an end. Reed has served FAITHFULLY for 3 years as the Trapper Trails Council's commissioner. We appreciate all the efforts of the Reed. Thanks, Reed, for your leadership.

Council Celebrates 100 years of the BSA at Birthday Dinner

2010-02-26T10:17:00.008-07:00

On Friday, February 12, 2010, the Trapper Trails Council initiated the 100 year anniversary of the Boy Scouts of America!

A phenomenal gathering of 840 Scout, religious, and community leaders gathered in the ballroom of the Ogden Eccles Conference center to celebrate 100 years for the Boy Scouts of America.

Detailed displays lined the halls outside of the ballroom, hallmarked by an impressive Monkey Bridge constructed specifically for the event.

Utah Lieutenant Governor Greg Bell served as the key-note speaker for the evening. President David Beck, Young Men General President of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints also spoke to the audience.

The evening concluded with local entertainer Jon Schmidt -- who performed on piano and successfully roused the audience!

Each recipient of the gala dinner received a commemorative coin celebrating the theme of the dinner: Leave a Legacy. Ogden business leader George Hall served a Master of Ceremonies. At the beginning of the evening, George set the tone for the evening stating, "Tonight, as we celebrate I would invite you to consider 2 things: 1. What has been the legacy left by the leaders of your youth upon you and 2. What is your legacy? "

To all who are in the Boy Scouts of America, take a moment and ask yourself the same questions: What has been the legacy left by the leaders of your youth upon you, and what will your legacy be?

Celebrate to journey, continue the adventure; LEAVE A LEGACY!

Happy Birthday BSA!

Senator Orrin Hatch Serves As Key Note for Mountain View District Eagle Banquet

2010-02-26T10:10:00.005-07:00

On February 18, 2010, the Mountain View District held it’s annual Eagle Recognition Night on Thursday, February 18. The District recognized 71 Eagle Scout recipients and welcomed Senator Orrin Hatch as the keynote speaker. The event was held at Ogden’s Union Station. Local businesspeople sponsored each Eagle Scout. Families and supporters of each Eagle Scout also attended.

Senator Hatch noted that many of the most influential people he has associated with have obtained the rank of Eagle Scout. He shared some of his experiences as a public servant. The Senator ended his comments commending the Boy Scouts of America for it’s 100 year anniversary, and encouraged all in attendance to remember this special year of celebration.

The Mountain View District is one of 18 districts within the Trapper Trails Council.

100 Years Recognized by the Utah State Legislature

2010-02-08T20:23:00.005-07:00

100 years ago today, William D. Boyce filed incorporation papers in Washington DC, and the Boy Scouts of America was born.

100 years later, with 4 million members and nearly 20 million alumni, the Boy Scouts of America is stronger than even before!

Today, representatives from the Trapper Trails Council travelled to the Utah State Capital to witness a historical event for the Boy Scouts of America, the Trapper Trails Council, and the State of Utah as the State Legislature passed a joint resolution recognizing the 100 years of the Boy Scouts of America. The Governor later signed the resolution and expressed with the media his sincere gratitude for the Legacy the BSA has left him. Governor Herbert is a Life Rank Scout.

It was a memorable day for the council, and for the Boy Scouts of America.

Check out the joint resolution at the following link: http://le.utah.gov/~2010/htmdoc/hbillhtm/HCR005.htm

Trapper Trails Council Scoutmaster Honored at 2009 National BSA Meetings

2009-12-30T15:06:00.002-07:00

Elton Sutherland was selected by the National Council of the Boy Scouts of America from a large list of nominees as one of 17 "Distinguished Scoutmasters". Elton and his wife Kathy were honored at the National Meetings held in Orlando, Florida held in 2009.

Elton started as an Assistant Scoutmaster with troop 17 (Chartered with Our Savior's Lutheran Church) in 1996. He became the Scoutmaster 6 months later and held that position for 13 years. Meanwhile, he has served as District Committee member, on numerous training staffs including Wood Badge, and is currently the District Food Drive coordinator. He has received the District Award of Merit, Scoutmaster Award of Merit, and is a Silver Beaver recipient. Recently, Elton helped in the formation of a Venture Crew through Our Savior's Lutheran Church and serves as Crew Assistant Advisor.

Elton takes every Scout request seriously and prayerfully. If the Unit, District, or Council asks Elton to help with something, his first consideration is how Scouts can be better served if he takes on the task. He seeks out opportunities for youth in the co-ed crew he works with to serve and to grow. He has spent 14 years encouraging new Scouts and Eagle Scouts.

He has touched lives of youth, parents, and other Leaders in significant ways.

Elton enjoys scouting and the people it has led him to know. Who can ask for better people to be friends with than Scouters?

Congratulations to Elton Sutherland for receiving the prestigious honor as one of 17 NATIONALLY recognized Scoutmasters to receive the Distinguished Scoutmaster Award.

2010 Philmont Training Center Schedule Announced

2009-12-30T14:47:00.002-07:00

Ever had the desire to attend the Philmont Training Center? This is your year! Follow the link to find out more information about course dates and pricing. Do not miss the opportunity to attend state-of-the art training.

Go to: http://www.philmonttrainingcenter.org/courses/index.html

Have You Heard About Kodiak?

2009-12-30T14:41:00.001-07:00

The Kodiak Venturing leadership course is unique in that it is offered in an exciting and challenging atmosphere using whatever high-adventure resources you have available. Your crew or council could offer a course backpacking or rafting down a river away from your council or in your local area. Kodiak teaches leadership skills in a fun way that is internalized by the Venturers who take the course. In other words, it is a challenging high-adventure trek with a simple and fun leadership course included. Kodiak is not taught indoors or in a classroom; it is done completely outdoors using nature’s examples of leadership.
It is …
1. Fun!
2. Relevant to each participant’s life.
3. Internalized by participants.
4. Based on nature.
5. Based on the servant leader concept.
6. Course Methods

It is taught by two instructors (one adult and one youth if possible) in an "instructor team."

Only five skills are taught. They are called "commissions." The five commissions are:
1. Effective Teams
2. Values/Vision
3. Communications
4. Decision Making
5. Planning

It is based on symbolism using the Kodiak bear. Commissions are introduced with a hands-on exercise followed by a short presentation, then reinforced with one or more exercises. It uses constant reinforcement. It creates an older teen leadership fraternity.

Check out more about Kodiak at: www.kodiak-bsa.org

Effective January 4, 2010. . .

2009-12-30T14:36:00.003-07:00

Trapper Trails Council recently announced personnel changes affecting several districts in the council, effective Monday, January 4, 2010.

Kim Hardcastle will serve as District Executive for the Lakeview district
Gary Weeks will serve as District Executive for the Mt. Ogden district
Graham Allen will serve as District Executive for the Island View district
Tom Hunsaker will serve as a Exploring Executive seeking new partnerships with groups and organizations throughout the council to sponsor Exploring units.

Please refer any questions to Director of Field Service Michael Jenkins at 801-479-5460.

Council Announces the Hiring of New District Executive

2009-12-30T14:32:00.002-07:00

The Trapper Trails Council, Boy Scouts of America recently hired Graham Allen to serve as a District Executive for the Island View District. The Island View District annually serves more than 2,500 registered youth and 1,000 volunteer leaders in Sunset, Clinton, West Point and Clearfield.

Allen started work for the Trapper Trails Council November 2nd. He is responsible to oversee District program development, youth recruitment and involvement, Unit leadership training and District fundraising. Additionally, Allen has been assigned to direct the Council’s local Cub-day camp, Camp Fife, located outside of Tremonton.

“We are excited to have Graham join our team,” Michael Marchese, Trapper Trails Council’s CEO and Executive Director of Scouting said. “His professional skills, personal drive and motivational energy move people and accomplish tasks that benefit boys and volunteers.”

Prior to working for the Trapper Trails Council, Allen worked as a Public Relations professional.

Allen recently graduated from Weber State University where he received a Bachelor of Arts in Communication.

We welcome Graham to the Trapper Trails Council team! Expect GREAT things from him. He brings charisma and talent to serve you!

100 year Celebration Activity #1: 100 year Birthday Dinner

2009-12-30T14:25:00.003-07:00

Be honest with yourself . . . the kid in you LOVES birthday parties. The first official centennial celebration activity will be a birthday bash fit only for a centenarian! The 100-year birthday party will not only serve as the kick-off to the year-long celebration, but will be an event never to be forgotten!

The setting for the event will be at the eclectic Eccles Conference Center in downtown Ogden. Phenomenal displays, entertainment from local musician Jon Schmidt, outstanding guest speakers Tico Perez (BSA National Commissioner) and Utah Governor Gary Herbert, flag ceremonies, and an elegant dinner will all be a part of the evening.

What would a Scouting event be without singing? You will not want to miss the gathering of 700+ Civic, Community, Religious, and Scouting leaders singing “Happy Birthday” to an organization deserving of such recognition!

There could be no better way to celebrate – with scouting friends old and new! Talk to your friends, neighbors, and family members. MAKE YOUR RESERVATIONS EARLY! Tickets for this event will be available December 1, 2009, and will not last long!

Who participates: Adults old and new, young or old!

Location: George S. Eccles Conference Center
2415 Washington Blvd. Ogden, UT 84401

Date: Friday, February 12, 2010

Time: 7:00 PM – 9:00 PM

Cost: $30.00/person
$300.00/table

Registration: Online at www.trappertrails.org

Leave A Legacy – Centennial Awards Requirements: Fulfills elective Character Award
requirement

Trapper Trails Council Now on Facebook

2009-12-30T14:18:00.002-07:00

The Trapper Trails Council proudly announces that it now has a page on Facebook. We encourage ALL members (adult and youth) of the council to become a "fan" of the Trapper Trails Council to receive frequent information and updates on the happenings, events, and news of the BSA and the Trapper Trails Council. Information will also be posted on the council blog; but in the event of 21st century communication facebook is a great way for the council to communicate with you!

Check the council out on Facebook! Become a "fan" today!

Council Order of the Arrow Lodge Awaxxaawe Awachia Leadership Changes Announced

2009-12-30T14:07:00.003-07:00

Ken Jeppesen, local volunteer and vigil member of the Order of the Arrow has been selected to serve as the next lodge advisor for the council's Order of the Arrow lodge. Ken will succeed Dennis Stockberger, who has served as Lodge Advisor since 2007. Ken grew up in the Cache Valley, and now lives in Davis County. He brings with him a wealth of leadership experience and knowledge to lead the Order of the Arrow Lodge to the next step. We are excited to welcome Ken to this new position. Ken has most recently served as Section Advisor for the Order of the Arrow, a position he has held for nearly 3 years.

Appreciation is expressed to Dennis Stockberger for his leadership to the Lodge for the last several years.

Ken's appointment will be in effect at the 2010 Founders Festival in February. For more details about the order of the arrow, how to join, and when key dates for the lodge are, visit the lodge website at: http://www.lodge535.org/

2010 Patch Program Available in Council Service Centers on January 4, 2010

2009-12-30T14:00:00.002-07:00

As a part of the 2010 Celebration, the 2010 "Leave A Legacy" Puzzle Patch program was introduced to unit, district, and council leadership at the October 2009 Council All-Hands conference. The puzzle patch set is a six piece patch set that seeks to engage youth and adults in the centennial celebration of the Boy Scouts of America in the Trapper Trails Council.

There will be a lot of fun memories made in Scouting in 2010. This year of celebration will afford the once-in-a –lifetime opportunity for all who participate to fulfill the vision of the centennial theme: celebrating the adventure, continuing the journey.

The centennial patch awards program has been carefully designed to augment the theme;

Every unit should participate in the 2010 centennial patch awards program! The patch program is a puzzle patch, made up of 6 segment patches that when put together complete a meaningful, larger patch. A picture of the patch and requirements can be accessed from www.trappertrails.org at the centennial website

Purpose:

The purpose of completing this patch will help Scout units by:
Increasing participation
Encouraging trained unit leaders
Teaching scouting ideals
Building group unity
Teaching boys to serve others.

Throughout 2010, it is hoped that unit leaders will take the opportunity to talk about 3 things:
1. The five individuals credited for playing a major role in the development of the Boy Scouts of America: William D. Boyce, Ernest Seton Thompson, Daniel Carter Beard, James E. West, and Lord Robert Baden-Powell. Brief Descriptions of the lives of these five men are found at the centennial website in the 2010 award patch program section.
2. The five ideals listed on the patches: Character, Leadership, Service, Outdoors (Respect for, and participation in), and Achievement.
3. What it means to Leave a Legacy.

Acquiring Patches:

There will be no formal way of certifying completion of requirements; it has been structured to be “on my honor.” Patch segments are available for purchase after January 1, 2010 at all council service centers.

The cost is $1.00 for each segment ($6.00 for each set).

Requirements:

Available at council service centers or online at www.trappertrails.org at the centennial website

Group Makes Art Presentation to Trapper Trails Council

2009-12-30T13:48:00.002-07:00

The Century of Values tour team made a stop at the Trapper Trails Council headquarters on October 15, 2009 as a part of their nationwide tour of all 300+ councils in the United States of America. The Century of Values tour originated in Detroit, Michigan.

The 30 minute presentation was concluded by presenting a numbered copy of the a commissioned piece of art work to the Trapper Trails Council. Mike Marchese, council Scout Executive accepted the artwork from the Century of Values team for the Trapper Trails Council.

The brief presentation was accompanied by an impressive Motor Home which was decorated with Scouting logos and pictures.

The presented piece of artwork hangs in the Ogden Service Center foyer. Copies of the artwork will soon hang in the Green River Trading Post and at the Boyd and Merlene Ivie Service Center in Logan. Check it the next time you are in the one of the service centers.

Why not make Bike the Bear One of your Scout Units MUST DO Activities of 2010?

2009-12-30T13:22:00.006-07:00

2009 was a record year for annual Bike the Bear event held at Camp Hunt in Garden City! Nearly 700 Scouts and leaders rode around Bear Lake; up from 500 the year before. Why not make the 2010 event a part your year.

The event will begin at Camp Hunt on August 13, 2010 with a spaghetti dinner. Several hundred Scouts and leaders will camp at Hunt in preparation for an early start the next morning. The "official" ride will begin early on Saturday with hundreds of Scouts and leaders lined up to start at 7:30. In addition to Scouts and leaders, there will be cyclists participate in the event as a part of their training for larger events like LOTOJA, which is held 2 weeks after Bike the Bear. The ride around Bear Lake is fully supported with rest stations every ten miles. The Order of the Arrow provides key logistical support for the event.

Biking around Bear Lake proves to be an easy way to complete the 50 mile leg of the cycling merit badge. In addition, the weather is perfect for a jont around the lake; and let face it, the scenery is wonderful.

For 2010, Bike the Bear is one of six major events set to commemorate the 100 year anniversary of Scouting. Visit http://www.trappertrails.org/ for more details and information regarding Bike the Bear in 2010!

Scout Troop Enjoys Memorable Trip Across The Pond

2009-12-30T13:19:00.002-07:00

By Stu Parkinson, Assistant Scoutmaster, Troop One, Logan, Utah

Troop 1 Leaders & Scouts visit the birthplace of scouting - Brownsea Island

Boy Scout Troop One from Logan, Utah (Sponsored by the Logan Lions Club-Old Ephraim District) arrived July 17 in London, England to participate in their fifth international scouting exchange since 1996 with scouts from Ashford, Kent, England. The 2009 scouting exchange was scheduled from July 16-August 10, and involved six scouts and three adult leaders from Troop One; Scoutmaster Tom Hogan, and Assistant Scoutmasters Randy Martin and Nicholas Major.
Before departing for the United Kingdom, I planned with Assistant Scoutmaster Randy Martin to develop a news blog, so that relatives of those scouts and leaders going to England could keep up to date with their daily activities. In reality, this news blog turned out to be so much more. Cache Valley radio station KVNU-AM updated their listening audience on a regular basis of the noteworthy activities Troop One was involved in, via the news blog Randy and I had developed.
Presently, plans are in the works to have Troop One host fourteen leaders and scouts from Ashford, Kent, UK in the summer of 2010. Troop One host families will provide accommodations for our English friends, and will take them on excursions in the northern Utah area. Other plans involve taking English and Troop One scouts and leaders to a Trapper Trails Council summer camp, along with a week-long visit to the Jackson Hole, Wyoming and the surrounding area.
Rather than go into detail in this article of Troop One’s remarkable exploits during their nearly one month stay in the United Kingdom, I shall simply let you readers visit the online news blog, and read for yourselves about the incredible journey these nine scouters were fortunate to experience.
http://www.cachevalleydaily.com/ishare/?profile=TroopOneNews

Wood Badge A Memory Maker For ALL!

2009-12-30T13:15:00.003-07:00

By Brian Hall

Do you remember what it was like when you were in Cub Scouts or when you were in Boy Scouts? Many of us have fond memories of our experiences in scouting as a youth; however, as leaders we sometimes forget just what it was like to be part of that pack or troop. The Wood Badge training course offers adult leaders the unique experience of being part of that pack and patrol once again. The fifth course of the year concluded in September and was a positive experience for the 53 participants and volunteer staff.

Wood Badge consists of a variety of activities to help adult leaders learn the skills that are necessary to make the youth we serve into great leaders. During the sixth day of course lessons in the area of communication, listening, diversity, and group-development are taught and many others. A highlight of each course is the conservation project that is planned and carried out by the various patrols involved in the course.

Wood Badge is a valuable training for any leader involved in the shaping our young people through the scouting movement. Each year 8 Wood Badge courses are offered by the Trapper Trails Council. Contact the council at (801) 479-5460 office to take part in this wonderful training.

Baden-Powell University Set for September 19, 2009

2009-08-25T09:44:00.002-06:00

If you have not had a chance to register for Baden-Powell University; now is time to do so!

A complete list of classes and activities as well as online registration is available at www.trappertrails .org. Simply click on the BP-U icon to get started!

For questions regarding Baden-Powell University, please call your local Scout service center or talk to your District Executive.

3rd Annual Bike-the-Bear Ride Hailed A Success

2009-08-25T09:09:00.003-06:00

By: Nelson Palmer, Bike-the Bear Chairman

At 6am the music blaring for a camp alarm clock from Jason Eborn's Mustang. It was a great mix of scout and bike culture. The Bike-the-Bear day had begun!

We had over 400 riders. We had expected about 250. We ran out of T-Shirts and had to take orders. Some of the scouts ended up with large shirts. There were 100’s of stories worth telling from it. There were a lot of great volunteers, especially the Order of the Arrow chapter from the Old Juniper District, the Bridgerland Amatuer Radio Club, and others...

Kory Pitcher of Joyride Bikes in Logan was a great support on the course. He brought his wife and son who rode the course. Kory took his daughter in the truck and they drove around the lake and helped those in need. He handed out water and water bottles. He helped with some flat tires, minor adjustments and a few other things.

There was a family that had several young kids that rode around. The 5 and 8 year old kids rode around the lake. The father rode a dual type bike with one of the kids. The mother came in with a trailer and a 2 year old.

One young man rode the full 50 mile course on a hand driven bike; for the 3rd year in a row with his father! Others from his family also rode.

Another rider, a cancer survivor, her husband and others from their family rode the route. She had recently learned to ride a multispeed bike. Her bike was at least 40 years old, but in very good running condition.

One man visiting from New York saw a poster and decided to support the Scouts and walked into the lodge to signup. He rented a bike and rode around the lake for the ride. He was so excited when he finished that he spent almost an hour helping direct traffic at the end!

These area few of the many positive stories that have come out of this years Bike-the Bear ride.

There were mountain bikes, BMX bikes, new carbon fiber bikes, old steel bikes, super market bikes and professional bikes and more there. The people riding were from ages 5 to into their 70’s. Scouts and non-scout youth, Scouters and non-scouters, friends of friends, strong cyclists and first time riders all joined together. It was awesome!

What a great day and event!

Do not miss out on this unique opportunity in 2010. The Bike-the-Bear ride will be an official 100 year celebration activity as a part of the centennial celebration of the Boy Scouts of America in 2010. Details and other information will be available at http://www.trappertrails.org/. For questions related to Bike-the-Bear, contact Jason Eborn at 801-479-5460 or by emailing him at jeborn@bsamail.org

Doing A Good Turn Daily. . .For 100 years

2009-06-15T11:18:00.006-06:00

Most of you know about Scouting For Food. It is an annual Good Turn Activity - and something that has a huge impact on the community you live in! Scouts from every corner of the Trapper Trails Council participate, and have done so for a very long time.

While looking through some old pictures, I was mesmerized by the following pictures: The first is a picture of Scouts in Clarkston, Utah decorating graves during a 1925 Decoration Day (Now called Memorial Day) celebration. The Second is a 1942 shot of Scouts from the Logan LDS 5th ward participating in an aluminum collection drive. This activity was done for several years during World War II as a way to help the war effort.

It is nice to know, that for almost 100 years, Boy Scouts have answered the call, done their "good turn" and helped our Nation - from Aluminum collection to Beet picking to Scouting for Food drives -- and a whole lot more!

Thanks to the wonderful generations of leaders who have provided such opportunities for generations of young men! Thanks to generations of young men who have answered the call: Do a good turn daily!

Baden-Powell University 2009

2009-06-15T11:06:00.002-06:00

Baden-Powell University has been scheudled for September 19, 2009 at Weber High School.

What is Baden-Powell University?: A fun day of supplemental training for ALL ADULT VOLUNTEER LEADERS. Class are offered for Cub Scout, Boy Scout, Varsity, and Venture leaders.

What Can I Expect From Baden-Powell University?: The day’s program is designed to provide ideas and resources to benefit your Pack, Troop, Team, and Crew. At BP-U, you can expect: encouragement through networking with other leaders, enthusiasm, fresh ideas, and quality training!

What Else Should I Know?: Hand-picked, qualified instructors will offer classes in a variety of subjects that will help you understand your role and function in the Scouting program. You have the opportunity to select classes that will benefit you.

University Schedule:

Registration Begins: 7:30 AM
Opening Ceremony: 8:30 AM
Class Sessions:
A: 9:00 AM—9:50 AM
B: 9:55 AM—10:45 AM
C: 10:50 AM—11:40 AM
D: 11:45 AM—12:30 PM
Lunch: 12:30 PM—1:25 PM
E: 1:30 PM—2:15 PM
F: 2:20 PM—3:10 PM

How Can You Register?: register in one of the following ways:

In person at your local service center

Mail your registration for to: Trapper Trails Council 1200 E. 5400 S. Ogden, UT 84404

Online at http://www.trappertrails.org/

In person at the university

Contact your local service center for more details about Baden-Powell University. Do not miss out on this wonderful supplemental training experience.

Trapper Trails Council Unveils its 100 year Celebration Logo

2009-06-15T11:01:00.003-06:00

You are going to see a lot of this logo in 2010. . .

In conjunction with the 2010 - 100 year celebration of the Boy Scouts of America, the Trapper Trails Council has created a logo that will be used as a part of all camping and program activities throughout 2010.

The official kick-off to the 2010 celebration year will be on October 11, 2009. Information will be available to unit leaders beginning at roundtables and at http://www.trappertrails.org/ in September 2009. A lot of information will be coming, so plan to look for this information as you anticipate September. . .

Nominate a Scouter to the National Hall of Leadership Today!

2009-06-15T10:58:00.003-06:00

Has a Scout, leader, or other Scouting volunteer made a significant difference at some time in your life, or the life of others, by the extraordinary service they have given and the Scouting virtues they have modeled?

Nominate them to the BSA 100th Anniversary Hall of Leadership!

The BSA 100th Anniversary National Hall of Leadership provides a one-time opportunity for you to honor and recognize a Scouting leader who positively impacted your life, or the lives of others. To be nominated, a person must be a living Scout or Scouting volunteer who may or may not be officially registered with the BSA. They must have served as an active Scout or Scouting volunteer for at least one year. A nominee may be young or old — there is no age limit — and you can submit as many nominations as you'd like.

Access online registration by using the link at http://www.trappertrails.org/ or put this link into your web browser: http://ww2.scouting.org/100years/100years/NationalHallofLeadership.aspx
The nomination period is open for one year, from February 8, 2009 to February 8, 2010. One inductee will be selected from each local BSA council in the country along with one from the national office. Inductees will be announced at the BSA National Annual Meeting in Dallas in May 2010.

Annual "Bike the Bear" Activity Coming Up

2009-06-15T10:33:00.002-06:00

The 3rd annual "Bike the Bear" activity is quickly approaching. It will be held at Camp Hunt on August 22, 2009 (August 21 - 22, 2009 if you plan to camp overnight with your Scout unit).

This event is fully supported with bicycle mechanics and rest stops about every 10 miles of the 50-mile loop trip around beautiful Bear Lake, to re-fuel and make sure all have a great experience!.

The 50 mile and 100 mile divisions begin and end at Camp Hunt, located on the west shore of Bear Lake in Garden City, Utah. Overnight camping will be available at Camp Hunt for Scout units who would like to participate in the pre-event festivities, such as a pasta dinner before the ride.

The Event Schedule is as Follows:

Friday: August 21
4-8 Friday Night sign in
6-8pm Friday Night Pasta Dinner

Saturday: August 22
6:30-7:45am Saturday sign-in
7am: 100 mile start time
7:15am: First 50 mile start time
8am: Last start time
2:30pm: End of Road support by Council

For a registration, click on the following link: http://www.trappertrails.net/pdfdocs/btbflyer09.pdf

With questions, please contact Jason at the council office at 801-479-5460.

Do not miss out on this great event!

FYI. . .Training Updates

2009-06-15T10:26:00.002-06:00

Training Updates
June 2009

Selected councils will pilot required training for direct-contact leaders in 2010. Plans are in development to require training for all direct-contact leaders in 2011. Councils should prepare to make training more readily available and to expand their training teams.

The national Web site, www.scouting.org, has been redesigned and will soon be much more user friendly. To get to training information, click on Volunteer, then Training, and you will see the new and improved training resource page.

This Is Scouting is now up and running. It is a six-module training course that can be completed in about an hour. It replaces New Leader Essentials. It is now available on DVD. The catalog number is 36118, and it retails for $9.99. The training code is WAO1. New Leader Essentials should now be discontinued.

The National Office had slightly over 50,000 completed training courses on the Online Training Center during the month of February and slightly over 80,000 completed training courses in March.

A new supplemental training courses now online include Interfaith Worship, Bullying, Leave No Trace, and Disc Golf. These courses can be downloaded to be used as a course outline or they can be a self-study. More new courses are in development.

The Trainer’s Edge course, which replaces Trainer Development is specifically intended for training Wood Badge and NYLT staff and is a daylong course that is focused on platform skills. The syllabus can be downloaded by going to www.scouting.org/boyscouts/adult/training.

The Philmont Training Center will offer a wide range of training courses in 2009. A complete list of the courses is on www.scouting.org. Registration can be completed on www.myscouting.org. The password is “waite.”

Hazardous Weather training is on the Online Learning Center. As of January 1, 2009, it became required to be completed by at least one person in a unit for the unit to receive a tour permit.
ScoutParent Unit Coordinator Fast Start is now on available online. For each unit to participate in the ScoutParents program, they must designate a ScoutParent unit coordinator who will coordinate parent involvement in unit activities.

As of January 1, 2009, the tour permit also requires at least one person to have completed Youth Protection Training within the past two years. BALOO does not have a two-year shelf life.
Two other new training courses are now available online. Both Trek Safely (S76) and Climb On Safely (S74) are available for Scouters to complete. Both of these courses have a two-year shelf life.

A Kodiak mountain trek for Venturing youth and older Boy Scouts will be offered this summer at Philmont Scout Ranch the week of July 26-Aug. 1. Registration is handled through www.myscouting.org. The password is “waite.” Family members can attend a training course at the training center while their youth are hiking the trek.

The centennial edition (12th) of the Boy Scout Handbook will be available in August 2009. It will feature a mixture of parts of many of the early handbooks with a 21st century flair. The handbook features chapters on Leadership and Leave No Trace, which both are firsts. There will be a supplemental 100-year timeline book with the first printing and a mini-book with the rank requirements that is pocket size. A Web site will provide in-depth information on many subjects.
Training courses that require people to be re certified include BSA Lifeguard (three years), Paddle Craft Safety (three years), Swimming & Water Rescue (three years), Climb On Safely (two years), Trek Safely (two years), Safe Swim Defense (two years), Safety Afloat (two years), Camp Visitation (two years), Chainsaw Safety (two years), and National Camp School (five camping seasons).

A new resource of information that you may not be aware of is now available on http://blog.scoutingmagazine.org.

COR fast start training is in development and will soon be available online.

The Florida National High Adventure Sea Base will be the site of a Volunteer Development Training Conference the week of Jan. 18-23, 2010. Courses to be offered will be Strictly for Scoutmasters, Strictly for Cubmasters, Advancement Policy and Procedures, Webelos to First Class, Geo cache and Scouting, and Administration of Venturing. Additional information and registration is available on www.scouting.org.

Annual Varsity Scout Rendezvous A Success!

2009-06-15T10:21:00.002-06:00

By Reese Gregory

So how did the Varsity Scout Mountain Man Rendezvous turn out this last weekend (June 4th - 6th)? Well, let me tell ya’…

I pulled into camp just before sunset. The first thing I noticed was the old canvas tents and period lean-tos in the staff camp area. When I got a little closer I noticed the leather leggings and cotton shirts with deer antler buttons, bone and brass beads, fox skin head dresses, moccasins, powder horns and hand-made knives of all sorts and sizes. So I think to myself, “These guys are really into this stuff!”

Then Brock Benson, the Booshway (rendezvous leader), and I went around to visit the Varsity Team campsites. Right away I regretted my first mistake—I had already eaten dinner before visiting the campsites. As we wound around the columns of smoke and Dutch ovens we realized that nearly every campsite was just finishing up their dinner and had offerings for us. We sampled Dutch oven potatoes, barbecued chicken with a bit of an Australian barbeque twist, t-bone steaks with an incredible marinade seasoning, and the traditional tin foil dinners, each with their own creative touch. We even came across a Dutch oven chocolate cake laced with fresh blackberries and blueberries. The cook was whisking up home-made whipped cream as we spoke. Just as with the old Mt. Man rendezvous, these guys each brought with them the ideas, customs and techniques from wherever they had come. Again I thinks, “These guys are good!”

Many of the Team coaches commented on the prime location. Camp Fife is beautiful this time of year. With the extra rain we’ve had this Spring, the Bear River was high and everything was lush and green. We watched a few pelicans fishing on the river, a bald eagle swoop down and make his catch, and deer grazing on the hillside. There’s something fundamentally rejuvenating about being in a setting like this.

Friday morning started about 6:00 a.m. with breakfast and a flag ceremony, then on to the games. The day was spent in Mt. Man activities such as black powder rifle shooting, archery, knife and ‘hawk throwing, scrimshaw (carving on bone), cabor tossing, fire building without matches, trap setting, and in true Mt. Man fashion, a nap or two here and there during an occasional, quickly passing thunderstorm. We capped off the day with a Mt. Man feast of beef stew cooked over the open fire in a huge cast-iron cauldron, followed by a traditional trading blanket and a campfire program. The day’s events, followed by a hearty, hot stew—a perfect recipe for a peaceful night’s sleep. A little rain and a big train, but I think we expected that.

Saturday was the final event, the Coulter Run. Each team made the rounds to each of the events they had practiced the day before in a timed race, scoring extra points for marksmanship, accuracy and distance, etc. I was amazed at how much the boys had learned in these stations. Most teams were able to complete the run in less than 15 minutes! That’s with 7 events, most of which these boys had never before done until they came to this camp! There was a quick awards assembly with prizes for the winners, including Dutch ovens, a big yellow water cooler, knives and camping equipment.

Speaking of which, we need to thank those who donated and/or gave us a break on prizes and some of the materials needed for the Rendezvous: IFA, Ace Hardware, R&R Hardware and Kent’s Market in Tremonton. Smith and Edwards has supported us this year and in the past with knives and equipment. Thanks to Brock Benson and a terrific staff for putting on the event! And thanks to all the Varsity Team coaches for taking time from their families and bringing their boys to this event. Plans are already in the works for next year’s Varsity Scout Mt. Man Rendezvous. We look to have the location, date, and rough details in place by September. Keep an eye on trappertrails.org for details!

2009 Ogden Area Scout-o-rama held at Fort Buenaventura

2009-05-26T16:12:00.003-06:00

The 2009 Ogden area Scout-o-rama was held at Fort Buenaventura on May 15-16. Nearly 2,000 Scouts and adult leaders attended an event organized and executed by phenomenal committee of volunteers.

Highlights of this years Scout-o-rama included:

kayaks, canoes, and row boats
rifle range
archery range
tomahawk range
Apache helicopter
blacksmith

Many units participated by having a booth at the event. Old or young, fun was had all! Special thanks to Paul Bissell, 2009 Scout-o-rama chairman and his amazing committee for arranging for and executing a well planned and organized Scouting event!

Thanks to all units who participated with a booth, or set up something like a Monkey Bridge for other to participate in.

In addition, units were able to camp inside of the park, whereas in previous years, troops had been asked to camp outside of the park. This was a pleasant change for many this year.

In 2010, the Scout-o-rama will be a council-wide event. As a part of the centennial of the Boy Scouts of America, the council will be hosting a Jamborall at the Weber County Fairgrounds and Golden Spike events center next year. A more detailed schedule of events and dates will be announced in June.

Your unit should plan on attending this top-class event!

Camp Hunt: A True Jewel for Scouting

2009-05-26T15:21:00.004-06:00

By Josh Haacke

We all have favorites. We have a favorite flavor of ice cream, favorite color, time of year, and etc. Most Scout leaders have a favorite Scout camp. For me, my favorite is Camp Hunt.

Having served as the camp director for a number of years, I have heard a lot said about Camp Hunt - good and bad. The busy highway is always the biggest complaint, but the water is the biggest complement. Year in and year out, I have witnessed the camp filling to capacity with eager young Scouts, despite the busy road. Camp Hunt has served them well!

I learned early on that Scout camps are not Scout camps without wonderful staff members and willing youth to learn and be taught. Despite the busy road that Camp Hunt sits on or even the lake it sits next too, the heart of Camp Hunt are the generations of wonderful people who have helped to make it a Scout camp - youth and adult!

Camping at Hunt is different. No whispering pines and quaking aspens there! Camp Hunt is a beach camp. . .and the campsites are closer together. In total, only 13-14 acres make up the camp. compare this to the 400+ acres that make up Camp Bartlett. Yet, Camp Hunt has been able to offer everything that other camps like Bartlett offer.

What separates Camp Hunt from the rest of the summer camps is Bear Lake. No other Scout camp in the Trapper Trails council has a waterfront quite like the one at Hunt. Nestled on the west shore of Bear Lake about 1 mile from the Utah/Idaho state line is a jewel of a camp: Camp Hunt. For nearly 75 years (Camp Hunt will celebrate 75 years as an official Scout camp in 2010), tens of thousands of Scouts have experienced summer camp at Hunt. Since the early days of the Scouting movement, Camp Hunt and Bear Lake has served the Scout youth of Utah, Idaho, and Wyoming. Note below the simple portrait captured in 1918 of a Scout troop on Bear Lake.

If you have never been to Camp Hunt, you should go! If you have been before, go again! Either way, you will not be disappointed by what greets you: a magical experience!

Wilderness First Aid Course Completed

2009-05-18T16:18:00.002-06:00

The Trapper Trails Council conducted its first Wilderness First Aid Course on April 18th and 25th. Doctors Norm Bos and Chuck Bean attended the Philmont Training Center in the Fall of 2008 and became certified to conduct the course. They recruited 10 other physicians, dentists and other medical professionals to help teach subjects that covered a wide-variety of medical emergencies that can arise in the back country.

34 students learned the basic principles of assessing medical problems, providing treatment and deciding if patients needed to be evacuated for further emergency treatment.

The course lasted 16 hours over two Saturdays and was hosted by The Tanner Clinic in Layton, Utah. Because of the personal expertise of the presenters, the instruction was interesting and informative. The class was even visited by a couple of “Docs” skilled in providing treatment out in the “sticks”.

After the success of this pilot course, we are planning on offering other courses. Please watch the council web page and flyers at roundtables for information on other opportunities to participate.

If anyone is interested in going to Philmont and being trained to conduct this training, please contact Josh at 801-479-5460. We would especially like others in the medical profession to provide these trainings in different areas of the council—making wilderness first aid training available to more Scouters who are leading groups into the back country.

James E. West Fellowship Honor Given To Council Volunteer

2009-05-11T15:38:00.004-06:00

On May 8, 2009, the Trapper Trails Council presented the James E. West fellowship award to local council volunteer Herschel Hester. Herschel is a dedicated Scout leader, representing the Catholic church tirelessly on the council relationships committee.

The James E. West fellowship award is is an National BSA Endowment recognition award. Encouraging gifts that endow local Scouting is one of the best ways to ensure that the council can continue to offer outstanding programs while growing to meet the needs of the youth and communities it serves. The West Fellowship award is available for gifts of $1,000.00 and up in cash or marketable securities to the council endowment fund. The gift must be in addition to - and not replace or diminish - the donor's annual support of Friends of Scouting.

James E. West was the first Chief Scout Executive of the Boy Scouts of America, and he served in that position for more than three decades. If an institution is truly "the lengthened shadow of one man," it is more than fitting the the BSA honor James E. West's contributions to Scouting in such a significant way.

Thanks to Herschel for his efforts; and congratulations to him in receiving this honor.

Rare Venturing Youth Leader Award Bestowed Upon Local Venture

2009-05-11T15:10:00.004-06:00

At the Executive Board Dinner held on May 8, 2009, the Trapper Trails Council recognized Cade Walker for his superior achievements in the Venturing Program. Cade is a member of Crew 427, based out of Tremonton, Utah.

The VENTURING LEADERSHIP AWARD recognizes Venture youth and adults who have shown exceptional dedication and given outstanding leadership and service to Venturing while exemplifying the Venturing Code. The award is presented in 3 categories: Council, Regional, National.

Cade has performed his duties in an exemplary manner. He has demonstrated outstanding leadership skills, selfless dedication, and steadfast determination to spreading Venturing throughout the community. His ability and devotion reflect great credit upon him, his parents, the Trapper Trails Council, and the Boy Scouts of America.

In addition to the Venturing Leadership Award, Cade has also earned the Religious Life Bronze Award, and Venturing Gold Award. He is close to earning the highest award in Venturing, the Silver Award.

The Trapper Trails Council is honored to present the Council Venturing Leadership to Cade, and congratulate him on this honor.

Annual Scout Night At The Ball Park Announced

2009-05-11T15:07:00.003-06:00

Scouting and baseball - two American legends will come together on July 10, 2009.

Scout units are encouraged to register early for this year's Scout Night with the Ogden Raptors! During the game, participants will enjoy hot dogs and drinks and on-field activities. After the game, Scouts will be able to get player's autographs, run the bases, and camp overnight on Lindquist Field. Participants will enjoy watching Disney's "The Sandlot" on the big screen - a fitting tribute to the spirit of inner-city youth and baseball.

Register now! Tickets range from $11-$13.50. Sign-up at your local Scout Service Center; registration ends on July 3.

To download a registration form, go to www.trappertrails.org and click on the "Ogden Raptors Scout Night at the ball park" link

For questions, contact Jeremy at 801.475.7497 or jeremy.bell@scouting.org

See you there!

Powder What?

2009-05-08T17:21:00.003-06:00

POWDERHORN. What is it? It is a high octane training designed to help adult leaders safely conduct outdoor activities of a fun and challenging nature. It provides an introduction to the recourses needed to successfully lead their youth through a program of outdoor adventure. This course is based upon the Ranger requirements giving participants an exposure to some outdoor/high adventure activities and not a certification event. Even though the course is based upon the Ranger program, it is still useful for any adult involved in delivering a unit-level high adventure program.
Learning Objectives
After completing the Powder Horn course, you can expect the following outcomes:
Ø Introduction to the skills necessary to operate their outdoor program and the various certifications necessary and how to obtain those certifications
Ø Knowledge of how to identify local resources and consultants for high adventure activities
Ø Detailed knowledge of the Ranger Award and associated Silver Award requirements.
Ø Knowledge of the health and safety requirements of the Boy Scouts of America as they apply to outdoor programs.
Ø Knowledge of the rules and regulations of the Boy Scouts of America as they apply to outdoor programs

Come and give Powder Horn a try! This year's course runs from June 29-July 4 at Camp Bartlett. It is an awesome training expereince. With questions regarding Powder Horn, contact your local council service center.

Camp Keisel: A Versatile Camp For Nearly 90 Years

2009-05-08T17:16:00.004-06:00

Camp Kiesel is a magical place nestled at the bottom of a steep canyon about 25 miles east of Ogden, Utah. Originally established as a resident Boy Scout camp, Kiesel has served the Cub Scouts for most of its existence. For over 80 years, Camp Keisel has served Scouting youth!

Last year, Camp Keisel served nearly 12,000 Cub Scout youth and just over 1,400 Cub Scout units, not to mention the large number of Scout troops, Varsity teams, and Venture crews who used the facility for an overnight camp or winter camp experience.

Because of its proximity to civilization, facilities, and set-up, Camp Kiesel hosts multiple adult leader trainings on an annual basis.With the combination of the natural beauty of the mountains that surround the camp, the canyons that make up the camp, and nearby Causey reservoir Camp Kiesel also serves as an ideal training facility.

Regardless of your reason in coming to Camp Kiesel, you will not be disappointed by the experience that will greet you: a meshing of the grand history and bright future of Scouting.

2009 Camp Season Preparations Underway

2009-05-08T16:48:00.003-06:00

The huge task of making the 2009 season a success has been underway for nearly a year now. Staff selections and training has taken place, program materials have been checked, repaired, cleaned or replaced, and projects at several of the council camps are well under way. These are all in preparation for the upcoming camp season, which begins in a little less than one month.

This week, a crew from the Trapper Trails council went to Camp Hunt to begin the replacement of the floor in the lodge kitchen. For any who have seen the the Camp Hunt kitchen floor can attest to the fact that it has been in desperate need of replacement. Thanks to a generous donation, the old tile floor will be replaced with a new ceramic tile floor this next week. In order to be prepared for the new floor, all of the kitchen appliances had to be removed, and the old floor had to be torn out.

After several hours of heavy labor, the old kitchen floor was removed, making way for the new floor.

Other major camp projects include: a new water system at Camp Keisel, new state of the art drain field at Camp Bartlett, and the fort upgrade at Camp Fife. All of the council camps are in need of the time of generous individuals (time and/or money) to help with ongoing projects to make our council camps even better!

For more information on helping at any of the Trapper Trails Council camp facilities, please contact Bill at 801-479-5460.

Another Trapper Trails Council Scout Quoted in Boy's Life Magazine

2009-04-25T20:49:00.004-06:00

Congratulations to Bruce Studman of Cove, UT (Cache Valley) for making it into the May edition of Boys Life Magazine.

We are glad he has leaders who provide him with opportunities to snowshoe, and snowcave!

Kudos to any willing to brave the wilds of winter camping! Hats go off to you.

Proof Scouts Really Do Care About Boy's Life Magazine!

2009-04-25T20:32:00.004-06:00

Finally, physical proof that Boy's Life magazine really has been appreciated in Utah, Idaho, and Wyoming for many year! Several days ago, a Trapper Trails Council staff member was sifting through old photographs in preparation for the upcoming 100 year celebration of Scouting and came across this wonderful old picture of troop 11 (River Heights LDS 1st Ward) taken in 1917. What are the boys reading? Boys Life magazine.

To explain a little further, the Trapper Trails Council boasts one of the lowest percentages of subscribing youth to Boy's Life Magazine in the nation. There are a flurry of reasons, but the predominant reason is that parents of youth are often not asked to subscribe.

Boy's Life magazine is a wonderful addition to the cadre of things young learners can read. The articles are generally wholesome, fun-filled, and educational. If you have not already, consider signing your Scout up for Boy's Life Magazine! You will not be disappointed. Otherwise, enjoy looking at this classic picture of day since past. Over the next 8 months, old pictures will be posted in preparation for the celebration of the 100 year anniversary of the Boy Scouts of America.

To subscribe to Boy's Life magazine, contact your Chartered Representative, Unit Commissioner, or call Sheila at the council office (801-479-5460).

Trapper Trails Proudly Recognizes Support Staff Members

2009-04-25T20:00:00.003-06:00

The members of support staff of the Trapper Trails Council were honored this past week as a part of Administrative Professionals Day, which was last Thursday.

You may or may not recognize the dedicated work support staff team does to help you provide the best service to you to help you in making your Scout unit(s) successful. Each support staff member brings with them a long list of talent and personality that makes our offices wonderful places to visit (and work). These wonderful support staff members work long hours and do a lot of "behind-the-scenes" things that help the office, production, camps, registration, programs, data entry and advancements go smoothly. Without their work, the office would be consistently overloaded with essential tasks to be completed. With the Trapper Trails Council support staff members we are blessed with, the Trapper Trails Council does A LOT extremely efficiently. Well deserved credit goes to these faithful employees who work very hard to be professional and successful. Thanks to each of member of the support staff for their efforts!

The next time you come into one of the Council Offices, remember to thank the wonderful members of the support staff who diligently work hard to make your experience at the office a pleasant one.

Annual Council Wide Varsity Games a Success!

2009-04-25T19:41:00.002-06:00

One of the best kept secrets of Scouting is the Varsity program! The best of Varsity Scouting was witnessed today at the Varsity Games, held at the Pleasant View LDS stake center, near Weber High School. Nearly 30 teams of boys participated in a wide range of "Olympic" style activities.

The Varsity games is skill based competition with a wide range of activities that challenge the mind as well as the body. Varsity team members could be found competing in activities such as: music, art, "general knowledge," running, long jump, sit-ups, push-ups, and the standing long jump just to name a few.

1st, 2nd, and 3rd place medals were presented to participating youth in over 30 categories!

In addition to the council sponsored games, the Elk Horn district held Varsity Games for 20 teams in the Cache Valley. Another well planned event for the benefit of Varsity age youth structured very similar to the Council sponsored games! The Varsity games is not a new activity. It has been around as long as Varsity Scouting has existed.

Special thanks to Paul Hulet, Games Chairman and to Calvin Carlson for their organizing this spectacular event. Thanks to the nearly 30 volunteers who helped to staff events and mediate the games.

Plan on getting your team involved in 2010! Dates for the 2010 Varsity Games will be announced in September of this year. For more information regarding Varsity Scouting or the Varsity Games, call your local Scout service center.

Ogden Area Risk Management Training Concludes As A Success

2009-04-21T10:14:00.002-06:00

Scout leaders from the Ogden area convened at the Ogden BSA office on Saturday, April 18. From 9:00 AM - 1:00 PM. Leaders were instructed on the basics of program planning, budgeting, tour permits, and the principles of Leave No Trace. Specific break-out sessions included an overview course of First Aid, and certification courses in Climb on Safely, Trek Safely, Safe Swim Defense, Safety Afloat, Chain Saw Safety, and Inclement weather.

Risk Management training was organized by the Trapper Trails Council in 2008. The purpose of this training is to use it as an avenue to instruct and educate leaders of Venture Crews, Varsity Teams, and Boy Scout Troops on specified topics as a way to help units conduct, from beginning to end, a success and SAFE High Adventure Trek.

There is no cost for this training. Leaders can also participate in the on line version of all certification courses at the MYSCOUTING website.

Another Risk Management Training has been scheduled for this Saturday, April 25, 2009 in the Cache Valley. The training will be held from 9:00 AM -1:00 PM at the Wellsville Tabernacle.

Questions? Contact Josh at 801-479-5460

Den Chief Conference A Success

2009-04-16T15:50:00.001-06:00

On April 11, the Trapper Trails Council sponsored a Den Chief Conference, and it was awesome!!! It was great fun to see the Den Chiefs that were in attendance learn about how to do their job and to also come to understand how important it was.

Liz Miller, Council Cub Scout Training Chairman said, “I laughed really hard to see the Den Chiefs racing the leaders that were there in the crab walk relay. I have never seen anyone crab walk that fast. The Den Chiefs were awesome at it. The leaders that participated did it in true Cub Scout Style they, ‘Did their Best!’”

Seasoned Den Leaders know the value of a Den Chief! A Den Chief is a youth leader, a “helper” who comes to den meeting. He usually is a member of a Boy Scout Troop. As a Den Chief, he is responsible for the following:
· Knowing the purposes of Cub Scouting
· Helping boys achieve the purposes of Cub Scouting
· Being the activities assistant in den meetings
· Setting a good example through attitude and uniforming
· Taking part in weekly den meetings
· Assists the den in its part of the monthly pack program
· Being a friend to the boys in the den
· Meeting as needed with adult leaders
Simply put, a Den Chief is a valuable (and most often unknown or unused) resource for you Cub Scout Pack.

Do not know how to get a Den Chief for your den? Talk to your Chartered Organization Representative or contact Liz Miller at cubscouterlizzie@comcast.net.

The Trapper Trails Council will be holding another conference on December 5, 2009 in the Cache Valley Area. Please let everyone know and come and join us in a morning of learning, fun and games.

Final 22 Silver Beaver Awards Presented at Ceremony in Cache Valley

2009-04-13T12:59:00.002-06:00

22 of 56 recipients of the prestigious Silver Beaver award were formally presented this award on Friday, April 10, 2009 at a ceremony attended by nearly 300 people. Scout spirit was alive and well at the evening! The awards ceremony was followed by a reception where the recipients were congratulated by friends and family. The other 34 Silver Beaver recipients were recognized at a ceremony held on April 3, 2009 at Northridge High School in Davis county.

Between the 56 Silver Beaver recipients this year, nearly 1,400 collective years of service has been rendered to the youth of the Trapper Trails Council.

The Trapper Trails Council extends sincere congratulations and appreciation to these recipients for their tireless service to the youth of the council.

New Leader Essentials Training Replaced with "This Is Scouting"

2009-04-08T11:27:00.003-06:00

Effective April 1, 2009, New Leader's Essential training has been replaced by a new on-line training called: "This Is Scouting". Leaders can access this online training 2 ways:

1.
A. Go to www.scouting.org.
B. Click on MYSCOUTING at the top of the home page
C. If you have an account already set-up, log-in. Otherwise you will need to set up your personal account.
D. Click on the E-LEARNING link.
E. Click on the training you are going to take.

2.
A.Go to www.trappertrails.org.
B. Click on the TRAINING link on the left side of the page.
C. Click on the NEW LEADERS link.
D. Click on THIS IS SCOUTING LINK at the top of the page
E. Click on MYSCOUTING at the top of the page.
F. If you have an account already set-up, log-in. Otherwise, you will need to set up your personal account.
G. Click on the E-LEARNING link.
H. Click on the training you are going to take.

Please contact the council office for help or with questions.

Want to Attend Philmont? Register Online!

2009-04-08T11:23:00.002-06:00

Attending a training session at Philmont is the opportunity of a lifetime! Philmont has introduced online registration for all of its courses.

Registering online is easy. To register online, follow these easy directions:
1. Go to the “myscouting” log on screen
(http://www.scouting.org/applications/myscoutingfull.aspx)
a. If you have not created an account, you will need to do so. OR
b. Go into existing account
Whether or not you creating an account or going into an existing account, you will need:
· the council number (589) and
· your membership ID # (on your membership ID card or call your
local Trapper Trails Council office to obtain)
2. Sign-In
3. Click on “Event Reservations” (You can also view a list of training courses and dates for the
current year)
4. Click on “Philmont Training Center”
5. Click on “Training Center Registration”
6. Enter the following password: waite (all lower case)
7. Fill out the required information.

Need help or have questions? Contact your local Trapper Trails Council Service Center, or go to www.trappertrails.org

Valid Choice for a Unit Fundraiser: www.orderpopcorn.com

2009-04-08T10:31:00.003-06:00

it seems that as each year passes, more and more Americans are turning to the Internet as a tool to purchase commodities of life.

The Boy Scouts of America has had a long standing relationship with Trails End popcorn as a fundraising option for Scout units. Trails End popcorn has recently stepped up efforts to help Scout units sell popcorn through the web site: www.orderpopcorn.com.

Ordering popcorn online is an easy alternative for Scouts selling popcorn, units managing popcorn, and patrons purchasing popcorn. For Scouts to sell popcorn online the process is easy! Scouts only need to receive a key code for patrons to enter into the order popcorn system, and then email and/or call their friends/family to ask them to go to the website and purchase popcorn product. Unit leaders only need to work with the Scout office to gain key codes for their youth selling. Patrons simply order what they want, pay online, and the product is shipped to them directly from the factory. In other words, there is no money collection, popcorn delivery, or other time consuming fundraising related effort other than selling!

In order to receive funds generated from online popcorn sales, units must register with the council. For more information regarding www.orderpopcorn.com, contact Josh at 801-479-5460.

Council Announces 2010 Jamboree Shoulder Strip Patch Fundraiser

2009-04-08T10:20:00.002-06:00

The Trapper Trails Council is proud to announce the 2010 National Jamboree Shoulder Strip fundraiser. All funds raised from the sale of Jamboree Shoulder Strips will benefit youth travelling to the 2010 National Jamboree at Fort A.P. Hill, Virginia.

The shoulder strips for the National Jamboree reflect the theme of the Trapper Trails Council.

150 Limited edition, numbered shoulder strips with the jacket center patch and Order of the Arrow flap/chevron are available for purchase at any of the council service centers for $150.00 FOR THE SET. Set are moving quickly, so collectors will not want to wait to get the set!

Unnumbered sets (includes 8 Jamboree Shoulder Strips and Jacket Center Patch) are available for $100.00/set.

A single jamboree shoulder strip is available for $10.00/ea.

Contact your local Trapper Trails Council office for more details on the purchase of these patches.

Thank you for supporting the Youth participating in the 2010 National Jamboree.

Catholic Community Services Expresses Gratitude for Scouting For Food Donations

2009-04-06T11:25:00.004-06:00

Thanks again for the efforts of the thousands of young men and leaders who made Scouting For Food successful! Here is an example of one expression of thanks from a local food pantry who benefited from the efforts of March 28, 2009:

2 Local Boy Scouts Recognized in April Edition of Boys Life Magazine

2009-04-06T11:19:00.006-06:00

Congratulations to Braden W., member of troop 592 - Kays LDS Ward, who submitted a great idea to Boys Life magazine - and won $10.00 for it!

Also congratulations go out to Devon S., member troop 75 - United Methodist Church, for submitting a joke to Boys Life Magazine -- and getting it published. he also won $10.00 for his entry. Exciting time for these young Men! Good Work!

Trapper Trails Council Announces Hiring of New Scout Executive

2009-04-06T10:30:00.006-06:00

On April 1, 2009 Michael Marchese was selected as the new Scout Executive for the Trapper Trails Council.

Mike describes himself as an enthusiastic Scout, husband and father. He became a Boy Scout in Sacramento, California in 1978. He then moved to and grew up on the Oregon Coast in Brookings, Oregon with his family. He was also a Boy Scout in the Oregon Trail Council, he would eventually be employed.

His Professional Scouting career began in Coos Bay, Oregon, as District Executive where he served the lower third of the Oregon coast. He was promoted to District Director in Eugene, Oregon. Served as Camp Director on the Oregon Coast from 1995-1998 and is a brotherhood member of the Order of Arrow.

Mike became Assistant Scout Executive of the Oregon Trail Council in May 1998.
He was then promoted to Idaho in November 2002 after his selection as Director of Field Service for Grand Teton Council.

In April 2006, Mike and his family relocated to Gilbert, Arizona when he was promoted to Director of Field Service and Chief Operating Officer for Grand Canyon Council. Mike has been tasked with guiding 24 Executive Field Staff members who support 20,500 volunteers, 22 Districts, the Friends of Scouting campaign, Membership and Commissioner Service, as well as legal and fiscal controls.

Mike and his wife Cherylann, have a daughter, Katie, age 8, and son Christian 6.

He is Wood Badge trained and served on staff in 2003 as a Troop Guide.
Mike served at the 2005 National Jamboree and plans to serve in 2010 as the Administration Chief, for Western Region, BSA.

Mike graduated from the University of Oregon, with a degree in Political Science.
He enjoys restoring classic cars, which have included a 1959 Cadillac and1968 GT/CS Mustang. He likes everything outdoors; hiking, camping, golf and more.

He is eager to begin serving with the wonderful volunteers and staff of the Trapper Trails Council.

The hiring of Mike fills the vacancy left by former Scout Executive Rick Barnes who left in February to assume a new position with the Great Salt Lake Council. Mike will assume his new responsibility on May 1, 2009.

A special welcome to Michael Marchese and his family! We look forward to Mike's leadership to the Trapper Trails Council family.

Silver Beaver Awards Bestowed Upon 34 of 56 Recipients

2009-04-06T10:17:00.004-06:00

The Silver Beaver Recognition evening for the Ogden area concluded on Friday, April 3, 2009 with 34 of 56 recipients receiving their award.

Northridge High School provided a perfect setting for the recognition of these 34 recipients. The evening was highlighted by a musical performance by Heidi Bowden, a beautiful flute solo of familiar songs and hymns. Jerry Bowden served as master of ceremonies. Dave Wadman, council president, spoke to the recipients and guests. Dave related the history of the Silver Beaver award.

First awarded in 1931, the Silver Beaver award is the highest award granted by the council to volunteers for their excellent and devoted service to the Scouting movement. This year, over 1,400 collective years were represented with an average of 25 years of service from each of the 56 recipients.

Congratulations to these 56 recipients. Special thanks to them for their unwavering service to Scouting. We are honored by your devotion to the youth of the Scouting movement. The remaining 22 recipients will be honored at a special evening in Cache Valley on April 10, 2009 (7:00 PM at 1255 North 600 East, Logan).

The First Wood Badge Course of 2009

2009-04-06T10:12:00.002-06:00

The first Wood Badge course recently concluded at Camp Kiesel. The course was conducted the second and fourth weekends of March. It was a winter wonderland setting for the 50 participants. The camp received a fresh 12” of snow the night before the second half began allowing the staff and participants to put into practice the team building skills that had been explained and demonstrated the first weekend. All were able to make it Back to Gilwell and complete the course.

The experience was enjoyed by all and was considered by many to be a life-changing experience. Jared Olschewski, who served as the course director, commented that is was as good a staff and group of participants that he has ever had the opportunity to work with in 10 years of Wood Badge experience.

Special thanks to Jared Olschewski for his devotion to the Wood Badge program in the Trapper Trails Council.

A Record Year For Scouting For Food

2009-04-06T09:57:00.002-06:00

The 2009 Scouting For Food Drive, held on March 28, was a huge success for the Trapper Trails Council. Food was delivered to local food pantries throughout Weber, Davis, Morgan, Cache, Box Elder, and Rich Counties in Utah as well as pantries in Southeast Idaho and Southwest Wyoming.

Nearly 600,000 pounds of food was collected on what will go down in the record books as the largest and most succesful Scouting For Food Drive in council history. Nearly 10,000 Scouts and adult leaders participated in the delivery of bags, collection of food, and sorting of food at the various drop off locations.

Special thanks to the hundreds of volunteers who helped to organize and coordinate the drop off locations.

"When times are tough, people tend to be more generous," said Marcie Valdez, director of the Northern Utah Catholic Community Services. This certaintly was the case this year.

Thanks for your efforts to make a diference witht this "good turn" activity. Scouting for Food does make a difference!

Council Hosts Western Region Cub Scout National Camp School at Camp Kiesel

2009-03-23T15:55:00.003-06:00

Cub Scout Camp Directors, program directors, and other leaders decended upon Camp Keisel from March 19-March 21 to become cretified to run Cub Scout Day Camps throughout the Western Region.

Leaders were placed through an intense training that began at 7:00 AM and concluded by 10:00 PM each day they were present. Cub Scouts and Leaders will be blessed by the camp leadership they come in contact this year. The Trapper Trails Council will be no exception to that! Several leaders attended this mandatory course from our council.

The purpose of National Camp School (NCS) is to help participants to become familiar with the National Day Camp Standards for Cub Scout Camps. Within these standards are many safety, administrative, and program standards that both camp directors and program directors should understand. Camp leadership also discusses specific ideas to help make camp programs fun, educational, successful, and safe.

Thanks to Janell Koeven, a Trapper Trails Council Scout, for serving as a staff member along with 6 other well-qualified instructors from every reach of the Western United States.

Where ever you Cub Scouts attend Day Camp this year, have confidence that they are in good hands!

Trapper Trails Council Hosts Annual Western Region Conference

2009-03-23T15:37:00.005-06:00

On March 5-7, 2009, nearly 50 excited Varsity and Venture leaders from all parts of the Western Region of the Boy Scouts of America came together to take part in the annual Powder Horn / Kodiak Course Directors conference. This is the 2nd year that the Trapper Trails Council has hosted this event.

The purpose of the Course Directors Conference was to instruct Powder Horn and Kodiak course directors in the basics of managing and running an effective training course. The Trapper Trails Council will be hosting 4 Kodiak courses and 1 Powder Horn course in 2009.

Both Kodiak and Powder Horn are fairly new training activities.

Kodiak is youth training. It is different than NYLT, in that it is geared for an older age group. Kodiak is oriented around a high adventure trek or setting with leadership training built into the six-day program. The course prepares Venturer, Varsity Scout or older Boy Scouts to be a “servant leader” as they lead their crew, team, or troop. Servant leadership as a philosophy teaches that the leader works with and through a team to accomplish the mission. At the heart of Kodiak are 5 commissions which focus on Character development. The beauty of Kodiak is that these commissions are instilled through fun-filled high adventure activities.

Powder Horn is adult training, and is designed to help adult leaders safely conduct outdoor activities of a fun and challenging nature. It provides an introduction to the recourses needed to successfully lead their youth through a program of outdoor adventure. This course is based upon the Ranger requirements giving participants an exposure to some outdoor/high adventure activities and not a certification event. Even though the course is based upon the Ranger program, it is still useful for any adult involved in delivering a unit-level high adventure program.

Please go to http://www.trappertrails.org/ for details regarding Powder Horn and Kodiak, or call your local service center for more details.

2 Trapper Trails Council Varsity Scout Earn Denali Award

2009-03-23T15:20:00.003-06:00

Several weeks ago, Colby and kyler Wright went the extra mile by earning the Denali Award.

The Denali Award is the highest award in Varsity Scoutng. Denali is the name American Indians gave Mount McKinley in central Alaska. The Denali Award is presented to Varsity Scouts team's youth members who complete additional requirements have already earned the Varsity Scout Letter.

These two young men are led by Kevin Varble, Varsity Coach and Tom Powell, Assistant Varsity Coach. Colby and Kyler are now a part of the Venturing program with Tom Powell as their advisor.

Congratulations to these 2 young men for their efforts!

Requirements for the Denali Award are as follows:

1. Be a registered Varsity Scout team member.
2. Advance at least one rank in the Boy Scout program (or earn a Palm for those who are already Eagle Scouts).
3. Hold leadership positions in a Varsity Scout team for at least six months.
4a. While serving as team captain or program manager, act as primary leader on at least two activities. Program managers should choose activities in their the field of emphasis. Team captains may serve as primary leader any of the five fields of emphasis.
4b. While serving as program manager or team captain, demonstrate shared leadership skills in supporting roles in each of the three remaining fields of emphasis.
5. Satisfy to the team captain that you know and live by the Varsity Scout Pledge.
6. Complete a progress review by a review board that includes a district or council representative and is lead by the advancement program manager.

PILOT NRA FIREARM INSTRUCTOR COURSE HELD IN TRAPPER TRAILS COUNCIL

2009-03-23T15:08:00.002-06:00

On March 21, 2009, 18 adult Scout leaders completed NRA Shotgun Instructor certification at the Cache Valley Shooting range. This first phase of this course actually began in February when particpants completed the NRA Basic Instructor course. The second phase, held on March 21st, was an intensive 10 hour course of classroom and range instruction. 17 of the particpants are from Golden Spike district.

Successful completion of the NRA Shotgun Instructor course allows individual Venture Crews flexiblity in participating in shooting sports events.

Additional courses will be offered this fall through the Trapper Trails Council. By 2010, a council-wide certification course will be in place and be held at a variety of locations. Stay tuned for more information.

21 Districts = 21 Centennial QUALITY Districts

2009-02-19T11:55:00.002-07:00

Something rare has taken place in the Trapper Trails Council. For the first time council history, all 21 districts in the council Have been designated as Centennial Quality Districts for the year 2008.

You may ask, "So What?" The reality is that this is a big deal. What it shows is the true reflection of the sincere dedication of the Hundreds of district volunteers and dedicated District Executives who work tirelessly to make Scouting happen from every corner of the council - and everywhere in between! What is says is that the leadership of each distrcit set worthy, yet lofty goals and worked hard to accomplish them.

Specific requirements for the centennial quality distrcit are as follows include unit and membership retention and growth, meeting financial goals, and quality recruitment of a strong volunteer corps.

Kudos to ALL who make the districts function! We appreciate your efforts.

William H. Spurgeon III Award Presented to Scout Leader

2009-02-19T11:33:00.006-07:00

Charles M. Jennings, Venture crew advisor in Crew 134, Golden Spike District, was honored at the Council Annual Business dinner as a recipient of the William H. Surgeon III award. This is an honor presented in the Trapper Trails Council only 3 times in the last 8 years.

The William H. Suprgeon III Award is the highest recognition for individuals and organizations contributing significant leadership to the Exploring program. The Spurgeon Award was develped in 1971 is designed for council use to recognize men or women who have rendered outstanding leadership to the Exploring program either as an Explorer post adult leader or as a district, division, or council Exploring adult volunteer.

Congratulations to Charlie. Thanks for your efforts with the Expoloring program in the Trapper Trails Council.

4 Honored With James E. West Fellowship Award

2009-02-19T11:11:00.004-07:00

Lorenzo "Rennie" Bott, The Reverend Neal Humphrey, David Warby, and T.J. Guinn were all honored on February 13, 2009 with the James E. West fellowship award. Congratulations and Thanks to these individuals for their dedication to the Scouting movement.

The West Fellowship honor is an National BSA Endowment recognition award. Encouraging gifts that endow local Scouting is one of the best ways to ensure that the council can continue to offer outstanding programs while growing to meet the needs of the youth and communities it serves. The West Fellowship award is available for gifts of $1,000.00 and up in cash or marketable securities to the council endowment fund. The gift must be in addition to - and not replace or diminish - the donor's annual support of Friends of Scouting.

James E. West was the first Chief Scout Executive of the Boy Scouts of America, and he served in that position for more than three decades. If an institution is truly "the lengthened shadow of one man," it is more than fitting the the BSA honor James E. West's contributions to Scouting in such a significant way.

Council Holds Annual Business Dinner, 2009 Officers Begin Tenure

2009-02-18T22:38:00.004-07:00

The Trapper Trails Council annual business dinner was held on February 13, 2009 at the Davis Conference Center in Layton, Utah. The annual business dinner is the opportunity for the council nominating committee to present to the Council Executive Board and Chartered Organization Representatives the slate of council officers for the year. All board members and chartered organization representatives are invited to vote on and approve these appointments. In addition, the dinner is an opportunity to recognize adults and youth throughout the council for their outstanding service and contributions to the Trapper Trails Council.

The Order of the Arrow chapter also presented its annual report, given by Lodge Chief Charles Bouker.

Several leaders were honored for their service as council officers:

David W. Rich has faithfully served for 3 years as council president. He will continue serving adult leaders and youth of the Trapper Trails Council as Vice President - High Adventure. In addition, Dave has been asked to serve as Area President, a regional appointment that works with 7-10 councils the western United States to train, motivate, and inspire.

Also recognized for their service were the following whose terms of service on the council executive committee have expired: Reed Richards, Immediate Past President; Boyd Call, Vice President - Operations & Ogden Service Area; Chris Davis, Vice President - Administration; Brent Parkin, Vice President, Marketing; and David Phippen - Legal Counsel. Special thanks to these individuals for helping the council in so many ways. Their sacrifice of service has been appreciated.

Rick Barnes, Council Scout Executive, was also honored for his 7 years of service to the Trapper Trails Council. Rick assumed a new assignment with the Great Salt Lake Council on February 17, the first working business day after the council annual business meeting.

The following Council Executive Committee members for 2009 are:

David Wadman, Council President
Reed Summers, Council Commissioner
Bob Osmond, Council Commissioner Elect
Mike Perkins, Vice President, Operations & Ogden Field Area
Theo Thomson, Vice President, Cache Service Area
Brent Hatch, Vice President, Bridger Service Area
Jerry Toombs, Vice President, Administration
Val Radmall, Vice President, Program
Jeff Bybee, Vice President, Camping
Kenny Wright, Vice President, Marketing
Kent Jorgensen, Vice President, Scoutreach
Noel Zabriske, Vice President, Learning for Life
Ange Workman, Vice President, Membership
David W. Rich, Vice President, High Adventure
Bob Stringham, Vice President, Finance
David Knowles, Legal Counsel
Lorenzo "Rennie" Bott, Treasurer
Brett Smith, Assistant Treasurer

With the top-notch volunteer leadership recruited to lead the council in 2009 - leaders and youth can expect a banner year, filled with fun and great memories for all.

Sincere appreciation is extended to ALL leaders who serve throughout the Trapper Trails Council.

Leaders Praised at Annual Whitney M. Young Recognition Evening

2009-02-17T21:48:00.001-07:00

Under the direction of Kent Jorgensen, Vice President, Scoutreach, the Trapper Trails Council presented the Whitney M. Young Service Award and Vale La Pena awards on February 6, 2009. The awards were presented during a dinner held on the Weber State University campus. Dr. Noel Zabriske, Superintendent - Ogden City Schools was the key note speaker for the evening festivities.

The Whitney M. Young award was created to recognize outstanding services by an adult or an organization who has demonstrated involvement in the development and implementation of Scouting opportunities for youth from rural or low-income urban backgrounds. The following recipients were honored:

Farrell Alleman, rural Scout leader and business leader;

Marsha Prantil, Senior Director of the YMCA of Greater Salt Lake – Ogden;

Ernest Stacy, rural Scout leader in Wyoming.

For the first time in council history, The Trapper Trails Council also presented the Vale la Pena! Award to five outstanding Scouters. The Scouting—Vale la Pena Service Award is used by councils to recognize Scouting volunteers, community leaders, or corporations that have had a positive impact in the service of Hispanic American/Latino youth in urban and rural communities. Congratulations to:

Francisco Carrillo, Hispanic community leader;

Andres Ramos, Young Men General Board of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints;

Rita Ramos, Trapper Trails Council Spanish Training Coordinator;

Kurt Rifleman, physician and community leader;

Alberto Vasquez, Hispanic community leader.

Congratulations to these 8 wonderful individuals. Special thanks to them for their years of decdicated hard work and effort for the youth of the Trapper Trails Council.

Mountain View District Scouts Celebrate Winter With Klondike Derby

2009-02-13T21:42:00.000-07:00

Scouters of the Mountain View District enjoyed this year's Winter Klondike at Camp Kiesel on February 6 & 7.
The weather worked out great! Scouts enjoyed sleeping in snow caves or tents in the shadow of Fort Kiesel.
Early Saturday morning, units competed to have the fastest klondike sled. Scouts participated in a variety of events including: knot tying, rescue maneuvers, knife and tomahawk throwing, neckerchief making, and sled racing. Varsity and Venture age youth were also able to shoot muzzle loaders.
Special thanks to John and Pam Harris, and the many station coordinators who made this year's event a success!

2009 Klondike Derby Report for the Weber View District and Lakeview District

2009-02-10T16:09:00.003-07:00

Lakeview

The Scouts of the Lakeview District spent a fun-filled weekend at Camp Fife on February 6-7.

Friday afternoon provided plenty of sunshine for the Scouts arriving. The clear sky Friday night brought colder temperatures and a star filled night sky. By Late Friday night there was no place to park a four wheeled carriage and its tow except along the road. Abundant campfires lit the night sky as numerous youth gathered around them. The laughter of the boys soon gave way to wooing of the owls and calls of coyotes.

Saturday morning brought rekindled fires accompanied with the aroma of good camp food. At 9:00 AM, the Scouts gathered around the flagpole for the raising of the colors and commencement of the games. The games were run by co-ed Venture Crew 17 and Crew 191. The games tested both skill and stamina as a north wind increased its intensity. Despite the bitter cold, the scouts pulled their sleds to each station, starting fires, signaling, practicing first aid and many other skills. Occasionally their sled would disappear when a claim jumper took off with it. Once the troop caught up with the claim jumper the troop answered several questions posed and the sled was returned.

As scouts returned home mothers throughout the district found satisfaction in knowing their young scout would sleep soundly that night.

Weber View

The Scouts of the Weber View District had a wonderful time at North Fork Park, the site of the 2009 district Klondike Derby. Nearly 450 Scouts and leaders took part in what was a great activity. Special thanks to District Camping Chairman Scott Hinrichs and all the volunteer staff that helped put together the activities.

Friday evening was nearly perfect as the sun set and the troops began to arrive. Many troops went up during the week and dug out their snow caves, so it was just a matter of carrying all the gear to the camp site and cooking dinner.

After a cool night of rest, the morning was bright with sunshine. As the activities started the cloud cover came over, but would not to stop the fun. Events such as the lumberjack challenge, survival fire building, blindfold target touch, were just a few that kept the Scouts busy.

The scores were turned in. . .and the winning troops will be announced at March Roundtable. Leaders, plan on being there to collect the awards.

2009-02-05T12:24:00.002-07:00

GOODBYE!

It’s hard to say goodbye to all of my friends in the Trapper Trails Council! I have absolutely loved my seven years in this council. I will take many, many fond memories with me. I will sincerely miss all of you!
Even though I am leaving to become the Scout Executive of the Great Salt Lake Council I will still be a volunteer here since we are not moving from our home in Mountain Green. I am even going to camp with my home troop at Aspen Ridge this summer. I have been to all of our camps with my local units and have enjoyed every one of them. We are truly blessed to have such wonderful camping properties.
So what happens now with my position? Council President, Dave Rich, has already formed a Scout Executive selection committee made up of officers and board members of the council. Yesterday, they had the profile meeting with Scouters from the Western Region, BSA. In this meeting they determine the strengths and skills they are looking for in a new Scout Executive. The Region then matches possible candidates with these skills and will come back in a few weeks with resumes to review. The selection committee will then pick several qualified candidates and interview them several weeks later. The goal is to have my replacement on board sometime in March.
Good Scouting to everyone and maybe I will bump into you at camp this summer.

Rick Barnes
Scout Executive

2009 Silver Beaver Recipients Announced

2009-02-02T13:58:00.004-07:00

The Trapper Trails Council is pleased to announce the Silver Beaver recognition evenings. The Silver Beaver award is the highest award presented to volunteer leaders. This year, 56 recipients will be honored at 2 locations:

April 3, 2009: Northridge High School, 2340 N. 400 W., Layton 6:30 PM
April 10, 2009: LDS Church, 1255 N. 600 E., Logan 6:30 PM

This year, 56 Siver Beaver recipents were selected from a commitee made up of prior Silver Beaver recipients. Over 120 nominations for Silver Beaver were submitted.

Congratulations to the following recipients:

David E. Bay, Bird Haven District
Jeanne Bingham, Weber View District
William C. Boer, Franklin District
Marianne Breitenbeker, Bird Haven District
Mathew Buller, Mount Ogden District
Donald Chantry, Jr., Mountain View District
NancyChristiansen, Golden Spike District
Delose Conner, Snow Horse District
Janice Conner, Snow Horse District
C. Dale Cottrell, Golden Spike District
Robert S. Dalton, Francis Peak District
R. Merlin Deschamps, Mountain View District
Richard A. Eggli, Golden Spike District
A. Kirk Francis, Arrowhead District
Joel Frederiksen, Lakeview District
Nancy B. Fuller, Golden Spike District
James Goddard, Arrowhead District
Carol Gotti, Snow Horse District
Stephen Griffin, Old Juniper District
M.Joseph Hall, Wyoming Trails District
Don A. Hampton, Franklin District
Ben Hansen, Wyoming Trails District
Cordell Henrie, Old Ephraim District
Shelly Holt, Franklin District
Deon Hunsaker, Old Juniper District
V. Seth Jensen, Lakeview District
Audrey Jessen, Jim Bridger District
Kent Johnson, Weber View District
Jeffrey Jorgensen, Old Juniper District
Richard Keisker, Elk Horn District
Derek E. Lamb, Snow Horse District
C. Russell Lawrence Jr., Mountain View District
Martha Lawson, Golden Spike District
Steven L. Marker, Mountain View District
Marva Mason, Golden Spike District
D. McKay McIntosh, Snow Horse District
Michael Medsker, Mountain View District
Chad Merrell, Golden Spike District
V. Harvey Mortensen, Francis Peak District
William Neu Jr., Wyoming Trails District
Joseph Osborne, Bonneville Shores District
Gary Pack, Snow Horse District
Mary Ann Packer, Bird Haven District
Richard Pfaff, Mount Ogden District
Alan Phister, Lakeview District
M. Shaun Ross, Francis Peak District
Darrell K. Ross, Golden Spike District
Robert L. Schuessler, Mountain View Distirct
Susan Thompson, Bird Haven District
Lonnie G. Thorpe, Lakeview District
Alan Thurgood, Arrowhead District
A. Val Tyler, Jim Bridger District
Heather Wells, Bird Haven District
Layne Wilding, Golden Spike District

Council To Recognize Local Scoutreach Leaders

2009-01-15T10:45:00.003-07:00

The Council is pleased to announce the third annual Whitney M. Young and Vale la Pena! awards banquet will be held on February 6, 2009 at the Weber State University’s Sky Room in Ogden.

The Trapper Trails Council will present the Whitney M. Young Service Awards to Farrell Alleman, District Commissioner of the Bridger Valley District and business leader; Marsha Prantil, Senior Director of the YMCA of Greater Salt Lake – Ogden; and Ernest Stacy, past District Chairman of the Bridger Valley District.

The Council will also present the Vale la Pena! Awards to Francisco Carrillo, Hispanic community leader; Andres Ramos, Young Men General Board of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints; Rita Ramos, Trapper Trails Council Spanish Training Coordinator; Kurt Rifleman, physician and community leader; Alberto Vasquez, Hispanic community leader.

“Service to others has always been on of Scouting’s most important objectives,” said Michael Jenkins, Field Director. “The Trapper Trails Council is grateful for the efforts of these individuals and the many other dedicated volunteers who have worked to bring the benefits of the Scouting program to all our community’s youth.”

Established by the Boy Scouts of America in 1978, this special recognition is named for the late Whitney M. Young Jr., civil rights spokesperson and executive director of the Urban League from 1961-1971. The award was created to recognize outstanding services by an adult or an organization for demonstrated involvement in the development and implementation of Scouting opportunities for youth from rural or low-income urban backgrounds.

Within urban and rural settings, the need to teach the principles of the Scout Oath and Law has never been greater. Scoutreach is the Boy Scouts of America’s commitment to ensure all youth have the opportunity to participate in Scouting

For more information, call Jeremy Bell at 801-475-7497

Hard Work Pays Off For Venturer Age Young Man

2009-01-14T10:23:00.000-07:00

Marcus Dean Cooper, Jr. has earned his the Venturing Gold Award and Venturing Silver Award. Marcus is the son of Marcus and Pieper Cooper of Kaysville and is currently serving as Crew Guide of Crew 438, Kaysville Crestwood LDS. Marcus worked at Camp Hunt BSA this summer as a High Adventure Ranger and Lifeguard and is currently employed as a lifeguard at Layton Surf and Swim. He recently completed a Board of Review for his Venturing Gold Award and Venturing Silver Award. According to council advancement staff, of the 47,000+ registered youth in the Trapper Trails Council, 17,000+ of which are Venturers, Marcus was one of fewer than 8 youth to receive their Venturing Silver Award in the last twelve months. This crowning achievement tops-off a long and impressive list of accomplishments including Eagle Scout with 81 merit badges, 4 Bronze Palms, 4 Gold Palms, 4 Silver Palms, Varsity Letter, and Denali Award to name a few.

A special Court of Honor for Marcus will be held Friday January 23, 2009 at the Crestwood Ward building at 1039 E. Crestwood Road in Kaysville from 7 to 8:30 pm. All Scouts and Scouters are invited to attend in uniform.

Congratulations to Marcus for his achievement!

Francis Peak District Conducts Successful VLSC Course

2009-01-13T10:05:00.000-07:00

On January 9th and 10th 2009 the Francis Peak District, Crestwood Zone conducted a very successful Venturing Leadership Skills Course (VLSC). The impressive youth lead staff conducted the course after having met on multiple occasions for staff developments in the two months prior to the course. The young men on staff set and exceeded their goal of teaching more than 75 participants. Each Venture unit in the zone was asked to provide at least two 16 or 17 year-old Venturers to serve as members of the staff. The stake created permanent course manuals, materials, and supplies for the staff to use insuring that it can be repeated periodically in the years to come. The youth staff designed participant and staff t-shirts for all who attended.

Nearly 60 young men and young women ranging from age 14 to 18 attended the course, including one special needs participant. Those who attended came from as far north as Ogden and as far south as Fruit Heights but most of those in attendance were from within the zone. The VLSC staff also provided an opportunity for leaders in attendance to form small adult crews during the course and participate in all of the leadership skills activities that were provided for the youth crews.

Hats off to the Francis Peak District Crestwood Zone for their efforts in helping prepare youth to lead.

2009 Camp Directors

2009-01-06T11:54:00.006-07:00

We are excited for the upcoming Camping Season. Our Camps are filling up fast and we have already recruited an impressive group of staff members. If your unit has not signed up yet, you will want to hurry up and get your spot reserved so you can have your desired campsite.

Bill Wangsgard--Camping Director, Glen Despain--Camp Fife, Jeremy Bell -- Camp Bartlett, Marte Green--Camp Browning, NOT PICTURE Delose Connor--Camp Loll, Scott Scherble--Camp New Fork, Mike Madsen--Camp Kiesel, Glen Pixton--Aspen Ridge, Eric Merkley--Camp Hunt.

David Rich, Council President, Earns the Distinguished Eagle Scout Award

2008-10-30T13:52:00.006-06:00

On October 10, 2008 the Distinguished Eagle Scout Award was presented to David W. Rich. Since earning his Eagle Scout in 1960, Dave has distinguished himself in all that he has done. Whether it has been in his 27 year career with Browning Arms Company as Vice President, or in 25 years of community and church leadership, education, or in ground breaking research in organizational leadership; childhood development, and or in consulting; David has risen above all others in his field to be a monumental leader in our community.
Professionally, David’s leadership resulted in rebuilt management structure with better production and goal achievement skills. Dave created workshops for managers and employees to identify personal and department goals and the processes to achieve those items more effectively resulting in nearly 1500 corporate goals and initiatives completed ahead of schedule in that time frame. Dave has served as Coordinator for Student Government at Weber State College (1973-1981) which included being the Advisor to Council and Class Presidents and 6 annual Vice Presidents in Student Government for the college. Dave has also been the Director of the Head Start Education Program Ogden City, Utah.

As a nationally and internationally recognized speaker, specialist, and innovator, Dave has researched 500 papers, read 300 books, attended and taught seminars regarding Organizational Behavior Training, Developmental Psychology & Learning Theory and become renowned in this field of study. 20,000 people have attended his trainings throughoutNorthern Utah, Southern Idaho, Southern Wyoming. He has spoken at more than 300 events as either a Key Note Speaker, or with other Panel Members.
Dave's zeal for service in paramount. From his service in US Army reserves during the Vietnam era to serving continuosly in his church in a variety of different service, support, and leadership roles, Dave has been an advocate for youth as an active community organization advocate.

As an active Scouter, Dave has served the youth of the Trapper Trails Council, Boy Scouts of America as: Council President, Council President-Elect, Western Region HR Committee, Council Vice President Field Operations, Council Vice President, Council Treasurer, Scoutmaster, Explorer Advisor, Troop Committee Chair, Council Explorer Training Chair 3 yrs, Camp Staff 10 summers, 2 National Camp Schools, Vice President Program, OA Lodge Vice Chief Logan 514

For his efforts in the Scouting movement, Dave has been recognized with Silver Beaver Award, William H. Spurgeon Award, James E. West Fellowship, District Award of Merit, Scouters Training, Wood Badge, Philmont 3 times (Council key three, LDS Relations, Professional Scouter 1969) (3 Years lake Bonneville) Youth Religious Duty to God, Adult On My Honor, Council Delegate National Meetings (14 years) Participant 1960 National Jamboree Colorado Springs, Council Report to the Governor , runner up for the report to the President of the US, Explorer Leadership Institute Training and Staff, Unit Commissioner, Assistant District Commissioner 4 years.

On behalf of the 46,000 youth and nearly 20,000 adult leaders in the Trapper Trails Council, we congratulate David W. Rich as a recipient of the Distinguished Eagle Scout Award. The Trapper Trails Council extends our sincere appreciation to him, to his wife Betty, their six children and 17 grandchildren.

We have shuffled the deck.

2008-10-23T16:17:00.005-06:00

In an effort to better serve our volunteers and youth, the Trapper Trails Council has implemented a few changes with the professional staff.

Steve Bingham has been moved from Director of Support Services to Finance Director.

Philip Eborn has been moved from Program Director to Director of Support Services.

Josh Haacke has been moved from Finance Director to Program Director.

Jason Eborn has moved from the Arrowhead Districts Unit Serving Executive to the Snow Horse District.

Mike Madsen has joined our team once again and is serving in the Arrowhead District.

Bilingual Wood Badge

2008-09-18T15:40:00.004-06:00

The Trapper Trails Council is currently conducting its 6th Wood Badge course of the year. This course is a special course because it is the first bilingual English/Spanish course the Council has held. Course Director Andy Ramos has pulled together a wonderful staff that is well prepared and has all the necessary equipment to make this course a success.

We appreciate the efforts made to help all of our Spanish speaking volunteers receive the training they need. We hope that our efforts in the community will continue to grow and help instill values in children and adults.
Andy Ramos addressing his course
If you are interested in attending any of our Wood Badge courses please visit the training page on the Council Website trappertrails.org

First Annual Scoutreach Golf Tournament in Logan

2008-09-18T15:16:00.006-06:00

This past Monday, September 15th, the Trapper Trails Council held its first Scoutreach Golf Classic in the Cache Valley. Over100 participants played and enjoyed a wonderful day at the Logan River Golf Course.

(Above) Council President Elect Dave Wadman gives his best effort on the longest drive hole.

(below) The putting was left up to Rick Barnes our Council Scout Executive.

The money raised in this event goes to help provide the Scouting program to underprivileged kids in the Logan area.

The Council would like to thank the many sponsors and participants and volunteers that helped make this event happen for their support.

Powder Horn

2008-08-26T09:24:00.003-06:00

Participants on the Dutchman

Sunrise at Camp Hunt Bear Lake

Preparing the bikes for a short mountain ride.

The second weekend of Powder Horn was held at Camp Hunt. Participants enjoyed sailing, canoeing, snorkeling, water skiing, mountain biking, climbing, rappelling, horseback riding, hiking, caving, camping, and backpacking.

Jeff Bybee showing us how its done on the rappell at Paris Ice Caves

Participants recieve instructions before they enter the cave.

Participants spent a day on Bear Lake practicing their water skills, and they spent an overnighter at the Paris Ice Caves learning all of the other High Adventure skills.

The resources used at Powder Horn gave participants a better understanding of how they can apply these skills with their home units.

Special thanks to Mike Perkins (Course Director) and his staff for the endless hours of preparation and hard work. We would also like to thank the many consultants throughout the community that help provide expertise to the training.

Bike the Bear

2008-08-25T10:22:00.006-06:00

The Trapper Trails Council held the second annual Bike the Bear at Camp Hunt on August 23rd 2008. Bike the Bear is a 50 mile bike ride around Bear Lake. Some of the participants choose to ride around twice topping the 100 mile marker.

One brave scout finished the 50 miles in his hand bike. He has completed the ride both years and has shown a great example to all Scouts on how to be courageous, and set goals and accomplish them no matter how difficult they may be.

This year scouts from the Trapper Trails Council enjoyed a beautiful day completing the 50 mile leg of their Cycling merit badge. The first year (2007) we had 178 riders. This year we had 225 and everyone of them completed the journey. We look forward to holding this event for many years to come.

Special thanks to the Camp Hunt Staff and all those who helped pull this off.

Powder Horn

2008-08-11T15:00:00.006-06:00

2007 Participants

The Venturing Spirit is alive and well in the Trapper Trails Council as participants enjoy the 2nd annual Powder Horn Course. This years course is a weekend course that began August 7-9 at Camp Browning and will finish August 21-23 at Camp Hunt.

John Anderson shows the participants how to brave the C.O.P.E. Course

Powder Horn is a resource training for Venture leaders. After this experience they will understand what the possibilities are for thier own Venture Crew. Participants will exprience, C.O.P.E. Climbing, Rappelling, Shooting, Archery, GPS and Land Navigation, Wilderness First Aid, Leave no Trace practices, Hiking, Biking, Scuba, Sailing, Canoeing, Kayaking and much more.

Special thanks to Mike Perkins and his staff for organizing this years Powder Horn

Watch for more picutures of the second weekend coming soon.

Fourth Annual Wood Badge with the Family Camp

2008-08-11T14:10:00.007-06:00

The Trapper Trails Council held it Fourth Annual Family Camp Program this year at Camp Bartlett. This unique program is designed around the Advanced Leadership Programs of Wood Badge, and National Youth Leadership Traiing. While Mom or Dad attends Wood Badge and some Scout age boys attend NYLT (Summit) the rest of the family enjoys a fun filled program for their age group. Families eat meals together and attend a few selected campfire programs with each other but for the most part they have the opportunity to get trained, meet new friends and share new experiences. The entire family catches the Scouting spirit and reconnects with nature. It is very common to hear a youngster tell Mom or Dad "this is better than Disneyland"

Participants enjoy the Campfire Program
The 16 to 18 year old Boys and Girls enjoyed the High Adventure ProgamWood Badge participants share a patriotic moment
Play time on Fife Lake
6-7 year old boys testing there paddle boats

A special thanks goes out to all of our many Scouters who volunteer their time and talent to help this program work. There is no way this even could happen without great people behind the scenes who work all year to prepare for Family Camp. The Council is forever in their debt. Thank you volunteers. Your footprint will always be remembered by those you have served.

Please join us next year at Camp Bartlett for Wood Badge and Summit with the Family.

Scout Night with the Ogden Raptors

2008-07-09T12:52:00.005-06:00

This year's Scout Night with the Ogden Raptors was a huge success. Over 300 Scouts attended this year's event to promote Scoutreach- Scouting's program to connect with rural and urban boys. America's oldest youth organization and favorite sporting event, baseball, where combined to form a memorable evening.
A local Scout troop from inner city Ogden represented the Trapper Trails Council by presenting the US Flag during the national anthem. The national anthem was sung by local scouter, Bob Peterson. After the game, Scouts were able to get autographs and run the bases on Lindquist Field. Scouts then gathered their sleeping bags and camped on the outfield. Participants enjoyed watching Disney's "The Sandlot" on the big screen- a fitting tribute to the spirit of inner city youth and baseball.

For more information on the Scoutreach program, call Jeremy Bell at 475-7497 or jebell@bsamail.org

Bahamas Adventure

2008-07-01T22:14:00.006-06:00

The Trapper Trails Council completed its first ever visit to the Florida Sea Base. The Council contingent of two crews and 12 people spent a week at sea learning how to sail a ship around the Bahamas. We launched out of Marsh Harbor, Bahamas on Monday the 23rd. Our first stop was an island called Man O War, a charming little town of about 300 people. Then next morning we set sail for a different island and different experiences. We spent the second day sailing the open seas until we came to Fowl Cay(pronounced key), a private preserve. There we snorkeled on a great reef for hours. We then set sail for Guana Cay. The following morning we raised the sails and headed for Hope Town on Elbow Cay. Hope Town is home to one of the most historical lighthouses around the world. It is a red and white candy cane lighthouse that is found on many postcards and pictures. It was built in 1863 by the British. This was one of the favorite stops. Several more days and several more cays were visited, each had their own charm.

More important than all the ports, are the skills learned by the boys and leaders alike. As the working crew of the Esperanza and the Lazy Days boats, the sailing was up to the boys. They learned how to navigate, judge depth by mapping, hoist all sails and bring them back down, use sailor knots, anchor the boat, snorkel, and have fun. We all slept on deck, had minimal showers, spent shifts on night watch, washed dishes in the ocean, and any other function needed to stay at sea. They did it all with a smile, gained a few skills, and a lot of self esteem.

Camp Hunt and Community Spirit

2008-06-20T22:30:00.002-06:00

Camp Hunt Staff in front of the High Adventure Bus.

Jason and Rene Eborn

In the spirit of Scouting, the Camp Hunt staff played a large part in the 1st Annual Bear Lake Marathon this year. The staff volunteered at each aid station on the route and they also helped at the start and finish lines. As many camp staff's do, they added spirit and fun to each station -- giving the runners more energy to keep going.

The Camp Hunt Staffers received many compliments throughout the day. The Marathon Coordinators were very pleased with their work and would like to have them back next year. Below is a thank you posted on their site:

Trappers Council at Camp Hunt: we couldn't have done it without the many volunteers from Camp Hunt. For first time marathon volunteers they did GREAT! We look forward to doing it again next year.

Camp Hunt Director, Jason Eborn, ran the full Marathon. The staff decided to run the last bit of the route with him. A tribute to what a great leader he is!

Thanks Camp Hunt for the positive community service!

Summer kick-off at Bartlett

2008-06-08T14:51:00.004-06:00

11 year old Scouts came from near and far to enjoy an overnighter at Camp Bartlett. The weather didn't cooperate too well. Between the intermittent snowfall and the muddy trails they still seemed to have fun. They rotated through stations to earn their Tenderfoot, Second Class and First Class.
Along with advancements, the boys were able to take part in two flag ceremonies, get to know their troop better, learn to cook and enjoy the time in the mountains.

Family Camp/Wood Badge Preparations

2008-06-08T14:44:00.006-06:00

Jennifer Erickson and Rich Hyer

It wasn't the warmest of conditions but the group of people gathered at Camp Bartlett on Saturday June 7 was warm as ever. The Family Camp and Wood Badge Staffs worked together to help prepare the best week of activities and training ever for the participants.

The Trapper Trails Council will hold their 4th annual Family Camp/Wood Badge Week at Camp Bartlett, July 28 - August 2, 2008. Much work and effort goes into planning this week. Saturday was just the tip of the iceberg.

Thanks so much to all who put endless hours of planning and working.

We're looking forward to the best year yet!

National Meeting Recognitions

2008-05-29T15:39:00.006-06:00

McLaughlin Award: This award is given to people who provide outstanding leadership, inspiration, vision, and example in endowment development.

We would like to congratulate Carl Robbins for being selected by the Western Region for his outstanding service. Carl has helped grow the Council Endowment fund from $650,000 to over $14,000,000 in cash and deferred gifts.

The Council also won its first Marketing Award in Council History. We would like to thank Brent Parkin (Council Vice President of Marketing) and his committee for their vision and hard work. The Council won the Best Marketing Campaign Award for its material supporting the 100 year anniversarry of World Scouting.

The following are examples of the material produced during 2007.

Mike Perkins (District Chairman, Golden Spike District) recieved the Silver Antelope Award for his exemplary service to the youth and our nation.

The Council also was awarded the Good Turn For America Award for its efforts the Scouting For Food Drive.

Scout O Rama 2008

2008-05-19T15:06:00.010-06:00

On May 16th and 17th the Trapper Trails Council held its annual Scout O Rama. This years event was held at Fort Buenaventura in Ogden. A great scouting experience was shared by more than 3,500 participants and staff members. Friday night events included a Value Trail, and a Camp Fire Program. Saturday morning kicked off with a fun 5k run. Following the run we had a great Flag Ceremony performed by Troop 17. Troop 17 is sponsored by Our Saviors Lutheran.

The days events included canoeing, kayaking, bow and arrows, BB guns, pellet guns, pistols, Leave No Trace, mountain biking, monkey bridges, Order of the Arrow Village, Cub Scout booths, advancement, Ogden city police dogs, Weber County Sheriffs Helicopter, and much more.

Special thanks to Clint “Paul” Bissell for being this years chairman and his committee. We would also like to thank Gary Weeks, staff advisor, all of the camps staffs, and all of the many volunteers who helped make this years Scout O Rama a success.

The Bird Haven District, and Golden Spike District also held their own Scout O Rama’s this year with similar events.

High Adventure

2008-05-12T11:49:00.001-06:00

High Adventure at its Best

2008-05-12T09:38:00.011-06:00

Youth between the ages of 14 and 20 are in need of experiences that test and train them in courage endurance, leadership, team building, self-worth, advanced outdoor skills, outdoor safety, a sense of well-being and much more. Our treks are adventurous, fun, challenging, and developmental. We teach and train youth in the skills, and behaviors of maturity and adulthood.

When you enter the vistas of the great outdoors something different happens to them. They are more open to learning what the great outdoors has to teach them. Outdoor settings are better suited for learning because the bonding between humans and nature is an ideal setting for emotional, physical, mental, and spiritual learning.

There is still time to sign up for our great High Adventure Treks. Visit us at www.trappertrails.org or call us at (801)479-5460

Project C.O.P.E.

2008-04-29T13:25:00.005-06:00

On April 26th Venturing units from around the Council gatherd at the new C.O.P.E. (challenging outdoor physical experience) course at the Council Service Center in Ogden.

65 youth enjoyed the beautiful day learning how to challenge themselves and build trust in each other. Thanks to Jacques Behar, Michael Jenkins and Jason Eborn for making this event possible.

If your Unit would like to reserve the C.O.P.E. course please contact us at (801)479-5460 or at http://www.trappertrails.org/

This event was one of our Council Sponsored Venturing events. May's Venturing event will be a shooting event on May 31st at Camp Kiesel. You can find the registration form under the upcoming Venturing activities.

Wood Badge Course Number 3

2008-04-24T14:18:00.023-06:00

Wood Badge For the 21st Century

Our 3rd Wood Badge course kicked off today under the direction of Rich Howe. This is our 3rd of 8 courses to be held this year.

Course Director Rich Howe receiving the official Charter from Jared Olschewski, Council Training Chairman.

Participants listening to the opening remarks during the Blue and Gold Banquet.

Our next course will be held at Camp Bartlett in conjunction with Family Camp in July-August.

For more information about Wood Badge visit us at trappertrails.org and go to the training tab.

Ogden Area Silver Beaver Recognition

2008-04-21T10:18:00.009-06:00

Silver Beaver recipients for the Ogden Area were honored Friday April 18th at Roy High School.

Opening Flag Ceremony performed by the Order of the Arrow.

Kathy Sutherland receiving her Silver Beaver Award from the Council Training Chairman, Jared Olschewski.

Council Camp Staff Training

2008-04-12T12:22:00.006-06:00

Building unity through initiative games.

George Comber instructing this years Water Front Directors

Working on Pioneering

Camp Kiesel Staff leading the Venture Oath with the rest of the camp staffs.

Each year the Trapper Trails Council hosts a Council wide training for our camp staffs. This is a great opportunity to share best practices and share the Council vision with the staffs that will be teaching and serving our youth over the summer.

The Council has 8 great camps and over 400 staff members that dedicate time and talent at our summer camps.

If you have not signed up for summer camp or high adventure there is still time. Give your youth the opportunity to learn and grow under the direction of an accredited camp program. For more information call (801)479-5460 or visit us at www.trappertrails.org.

Silver Beaver Recognition Evening

2008-04-12T11:59:00.007-06:00

New Silver Beaver recipient Brent Dyer and his family.

This year the Trapper Trails Council is proud to recognize 57 Silver Beaver Recipients. In adding up the total years of service performed by our recipients, we find more than 1,364 years between them, which averages 24 years of Scouting service for each person.

There are two recognition evenings this year. The first was held Friday April 11th in Logan, Utah. The second recognition will be held Friday April 18th at Roy High School.

We would like to thank all of our leaders for their dedication and service. If you would like to nominate someone for the Silver Beaver Award please turn in a nomination application at your local Scout Office.