Guidance for Updating Council Policies on Eagle Scout Letters of ReferenceThe Scouts BSA Advancement committee has created two documents to assist Councils in updating their policies for Eagle Scout letters of Reference. Eagle Scout References Pre and Post-January 1, 2025 This chart details the changes in the process of obtaining letters of recommendation for the rank of Eagle Scout, comparing pre and post-January 1, 2025. […]Scouts BSA Program Updates·February 14, 2025
Order of the Arrow Sash Prices Reduced<span>Order of the Arrow Sash Prices Reduced</span>
<span><span>griffin.goodno</span></span>
<span><time datetime="2025-02-13T16:00:59-05:00" title="Thursday, Feb 13, 2025 - 16:00">Thu, 02/13/2025 - 16:00</time>
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<div class="field field--name-body field--type-text-with-summary field--label-hidden field--item"><p>A Scout is thrifty! Everywhere you look, you see prices increasing for every day items as well as for specialty items. Unless you’re looking for a new Order of the Arrow (OA) sash!</p><p>We’re excited to share the news that the retail price of an OA sash has dropped by 20%! Scouting America Outfitters partnered with OA leadership several months ago to commit to identifying a vendor that could meet our mutual expectations for a quality sash at a lower cost to every OA member.</p></div>
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<div class="field field--name-field-web-tile-image field--type-image field--label-hidden field--item"> <img loading="lazy" src="https://oa-scouting.org/sites/default/files/web-tile/special_announcement_oa_sashes-01_720.png" width="500" height="500" alt="Order of the Arrow Sash Prices Reduced Article Square" title="Order of the Arrow Sash Prices Reduced" class="img-responsive">
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</div>Order of the Arrow News·February 13, 2025
NorCal CCS Virtual TrainingThe Northern California Commissioner College is coming on February 22nd. It is offering a virtual track with five classes on Special Needs and Disabilities. One class will address the newly revised Guide to Advancement SECTION 10 on advancement for special needs and disabilities. Registration is open at norcalcommissioner.orgAbilities Digest·February 13, 2025
Donor Spotlight: Ricky Mason – Pioneering the Future of Scouting with Endurance & Unity Explore how Eagle Scout Ricky Mason went from Philmont treks to national leadership—shaping Scouting’s future and becoming Chair-Elect in May 2026.Scouting America Foundation·February 13, 2025
Ricky Mason Elected Chair-Elect of Scouting America’s National Executive BoardScouting America is pleased to announce the election of Ricky Mason as Chair-Elect of its National Executive Board. Mason will assume the role of Chair in May 2026.Scouting America Foundation·February 13, 2025
Scouting America Celebrates 115 Years of Inspiring Youth!In celebration of its 115th birthday, Scouting America has officially embraced its new name and expanded its mission of service to youth across the country. From unforgettable outdoor adventures to empowering future leaders, Scouting America is more than a movement, it’s a tradition that continues to evolve and inspire.Scouting America Foundation·February 12, 2025
Scouting America’s 115th birthday celebration lights up the U.S.As a reflection of the impact Scouting has had on people around the world, the weekend’s celebrations prove the movement is thriving.National Eagle Scout Association·February 10, 2025
Coast Guard Tech Talk: First Aid Training: What You Need to Know and Where to Find TrainingPlease join us for our February 2025 Coast Guard Tech Talk Table on February 25th, 2025 at 9pmET/8pmCT/7pmMT/6pmPT on the Zoom Webinar link below https://us06web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_gYvlHdToQ7afAoU_5oFuJQ Our speaker is Robin Pope, Ph.D., PA-C, FAWM, currently serves as Deputy Director of the USCG Auxiliary’s Recreational Boating Safety Outreach Directorate. Dr. Pope has more than 3 decades of experience in […]Sea Scouts News·February 10, 2025
National Sea Scout Roundtable: February 19, 2025 at 9pmET/8pmCT/7pmMT/6pmPTJoin us for our next National Roundtable, including discussions on planning Long Cruises, Scoutbook to Unit Metrics, and Recruiting. Hope to see you on February 19, 2025 at 1800 PST/2100 EST. Register in advance for this Roundtable: https://us06web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_a5kLIvNkRgaK7o4Y9L22vQ#/registrationSea Scouts News·February 10, 2025
Scouting Activity Clothing GuidelineScouting America’s Scouts BSA Clothing Guideline aims to foster unity, respect, and safety during Scouting activities. While the official Scouting America field uniform is encouraged, participants can wear an activity uniform as needed during their Scouting activities. First and foremost, all clothing choices should meet safety requirements and reflect the values of the Scout Oath, […]Scouts BSA Program Updates·February 10, 2025
The Sea Scouts on USCGC EAGLE Application Portal is now open!Sea Scouts can apply now to sail on the USCGC Eagle!Sea Scouts News·February 9, 2025
Surveys and Research in Scouts BSAStreamed live on Nov 13, 2024: Research and surveys are vital tools for improving the Scouts BSA program. In this #TroopTalkLive, we’ll review recent survey findings with Director of Research Pat Wellen. Join us as she shares valuable insights, and find out how your feedback shapes the future of Scouting. WATCH THE RECORDINGScouts BSA Program Updates·February 7, 2025
Ideas for your troop to observe Election Day and Veterans DayStreamed live on Oct 9, 2024: From dignified flag ceremonies to impactful service projects, Scouting is always focused on citizenship. In this #TroopTalkLive, we’ll explore how troop activities can help Scouts become responsible, active citizens in their communities, the nation and the world. WATCH THE RECORDINGScouts BSA Program Updates·February 7, 2025
Find out about an innovative Wood Badge course at the Summit Bechtel ReserveStreamed live on Sep 11, 2024: There’s no better way to learn leadership skills than Wood Badge. In this #TroopTalkLive, we’ll talk to the directors of an innovative course at the Summit Bechtel Reserve. Find out what makes this Wood Badge course special and how you can register to attend. WATCH THE RECORDINGScouts BSA Program Updates·February 7, 2025
What is the Scouts BSA Youth Council and how does it work?Streamed live on Aug 28, 2024: Your Scouts can apply for the 2024-25 Scouts BSA Youth Council, aimed at putting youth perspectives central in program decision making. In this #TroopTalkLive, we’ll talk with one of the council’s chairs and some of its youth members about what it is and how it works. WATCH THE RECORDINGScouts BSA Program Updates·February 7, 2025
Heart Health Awareness in Scouting: February is American Heart MonthAs we celebrate American Heart Month this February, it’s a great time to focus on the importance of heart health and overall well-being as we gear up for upcoming Scouting activities. Whether you’re preparing for a weekend camping trip, high-adventure expeditions, or any physically demanding events, it’s crucial to take the right steps to stayScouting Wire·February 3, 2025
Policy Update: Combined Unit Elections<span>Policy Update: Combined Unit Elections</span>
<span><span>levi.adams</span></span>
<span><time datetime="2025-02-03T16:29:27-05:00" title="Monday, Feb 3, 2025 - 16:29">Mon, 02/03/2025 - 16:29</time>
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<div class="field field--name-body field--type-text-with-summary field--label-hidden field--item"><p>Order of the Arrow elections are important program aspects of all troops, crews, and ships. A unique feature of the OA election is that each unit may conduct one unit election annually. With the introduction of the Scouts BSA pilot program allowing girls and boys to be in one unit, it is important that clarification be shared about conducting that unit election.</p></div>
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<div class="field field--name-field-web-tile-image field--type-image field--label-hidden field--item"> <img loading="lazy" src="https://oa-scouting.org/sites/default/files/web-tile/Policy%20Update%20-%20Unit%20Elections-01.png" width="500" height="500" alt="Policy Update: Combined Unit Elections" title="Policy Update: Combined Unit Elections" class="img-responsive">
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</div>Order of the Arrow News·February 3, 2025
You’ve Just Been Elected to Office, What’s Next?<span>You’ve Just Been Elected to Office, What’s Next?</span>
<span><span>levi.adams</span></span>
<span><time datetime="2025-02-03T12:22:43-05:00" title="Monday, Feb 3, 2025 - 12:22">Mon, 02/03/2025 - 12:22</time>
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<div class="field field--name-body field--type-text-with-summary field--label-hidden field--item"><p><strong>You Were Elected—Now What?</strong><br>You were elected to leadership in the Order of the Arrow not just to achieve your goals but to exceed them. You are a model for other Arrowmen—someone who must uphold the ideals of our organization. But how do you best accomplish this? What is the most effective way to plan an event, engage your members, or promote the OA to a wider audience? These complex questions cannot be answered with a single, straightforward approach but require a combination of the resources available to you.</p></div>
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</div>Order of the Arrow News·February 3, 2025
Sea Scout Leadership AwardThe Sea Scout Leadership Award is presented by councils, territories, and the BSA National Council to Sea Scouts and Sea Scouters, who have made exceptional contributions to Sea Scouting and who exemplify the Scout Oath, the Scout Law, and the Sea Scout Promise.Sea Scouts News·January 29, 2025
Cultivating Belonging in Your Lodge<span>Cultivating Belonging in Your Lodge</span>
<span><span>levi.adams</span></span>
<span><time datetime="2025-01-28T19:22:09-05:00" title="Tuesday, Jan 28, 2025 - 19:22">Tue, 01/28/2025 - 19:22</time>
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<div class="field field--name-body field--type-text-with-summary field--label-hidden field--item"><p>Organizations only grow when they allow as many people as possible to feel welcome, and the OA is no different. The OA is a community driven that provides opportunities for all members. This commitment truly enriches the experience for all the members involved.</p></div>
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</div>Order of the Arrow News·January 29, 2025