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Potomac Rodeo Potomac Rodeo District Pow Wow in Review Page 4 District Staff Welcomes New Members Page 7 Record Turnout for Junior Training Camps Page 9 Tribute to Marty Heffner Page 8 Tomahawk Tomahawk Potomac District Royal Rangers News and Information for Royal Ranger Leaders September-October 2011 Consider “Blended” Consider “Blended” Potomac District Potomac District First Aid Training First Aid Training Chartering on Upswing Chartering on Upswing Page 12 Page 12 Page 14 Page 14

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Record Turnout for Junior Training Camps District Pow Wow in Review Tribute to Marty Heffner TOMAHAWK Page 4 Page 7 Page 9 Page 8 Potomac District Royal Rangers  News and Information for Royal Ranger Leaders  September-October 2011 July - August 2011

TRANSCRIPT

Page 1: Tomahawk SepOct11

TOMAHAWK July - August 2011

Potomac RodeoPotomac Rodeo District Pow Wow in Review

Page 4

District Staff Welcomes

New Members

Page 7

Record Turnout for

Junior Training Camps

Page 9

Tribute to Marty Heffner

Page 8

TomahawkTomahawk Potomac District Royal Rangers News and Information for Royal Ranger Leaders September-October 2011

Consider “Blended”Consider “Blended” Potomac DistrictPotomac District

First Aid TrainingFirst Aid Training Chartering on UpswingChartering on Upswing

Page 12Page 12 Page 14Page 14

Page 2: Tomahawk SepOct11

TOMAHAWK July - August 2011 2

POTOMAC DISTRICT ROYAL RANGERS www.potomacrangers.org

tomahawk

Potomac District Commander

Rev. Bobby Basham

Outreach/Publications Coordinator

Newsletter Editor

Gary Wagner

The Tomahawk newsletter is published bi-monthly as a means of communicating news and information to Royal Ranger leaders throughout the Potomac District. Sectional staffs and outposts are invited to submit articles and photographs that feature activi-ties of Royal Ranger ministries on a local level, or to share ideas and successes. Email material to [email protected]. Please submit photos as separate jpg image files. The Tomahawk is distributed via email as an electronic publication. Email address correc-tions, or requests to be added to the distri-bution list, should be forwarded to Potomac District executive secretary Denise Raduano at [email protected]. Royal Rangers Emblem © 1962 by the national

Royal Rangers Office, The General Council of the

Assemblies of God; Springfield, Mo. 65802. The

Royal Rangers Emblem may not be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any

form or by any means—electronically, mechanically,

photocopies, recording, or otherwise—without prior written permission from the national Royal Rang-

ers Office.

Royal Rangers is a principal ministry of the

Assemblies of God focused on discipling boys

for Jesus Christ. We provide Christ-like char-

acter formation and servant leadership

development for boys and young men in a

highly relational and fun environment. Our

mission is to evangelize, equip and empower

the next generation of Christ-like men and

lifelong servant leaders.

The Potomac District administrative region

of the General Council of the Assemblies of

God takes in Washington, D.C., Maryland,

most of Virginia and northern West Virginia.

Over 100 churches throughout this region

currently provide Royal Ranger ministry to

more than 2,500 boys and young men. We

use many tools to achieve that goal whether

it be camping, merits or interactive skills, all

designed to help develop a boy into a man

while having fun and getting to know God.

We want to develop both men and boys in

mentoring relationships and leadership skills,

and guide them to Jesus Christ. We reach

boys, so they may reach another in their

world.

Potomac District

Royal Rangers on Facebook www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=43063294240

COVER PHOTO: A Ranger hangs on to see if he can go the distance on a feisty mechanical bull ride during the 2011 “Potomac Rodeo” District Pow Wow. Photo by Greg Jones

See it now @ www.potomacrangers.org

FCF Fall Trace

Now’s the time to gear up for Blue Ridge Chapter’s annual Fall Trace for members of the Frontiersman Camping Fellowship. Download your copy of the registration package for the full sched-ule of events and details you won’t want to miss!

GMA Materials

Important information related to the Gold Medal of Achieve-ment is readily available to Ranger leaders who are work-ing with boys in their outpost to reach this important mile-stone. Download the Com-mander’s Instruction Packet and GMA Christian Service Project guidelines to ensure Rangers satisfy all application requirements for the Gold

RRA Application

Application for membership in the Royal Rangers Alumni is available at www.potomac rangers.org. Print and com-plete your application to mail in to the Potomac District office to start your member-ship today. There’s plenty to do in Royal Ranger ministry, and a “seasoned” hand is sometimes just the right touch.

“Have mercy on me, O Lord, “Have mercy on me, O Lord,

for I am in trouble … But as for I am in trouble … But as

for me, I trust in you, O Lord; for me, I trust in you, O Lord;

I say, ’You are my God’.”I say, ’You are my God’.”

Psalm 31: 9, 14

Page 3: Tomahawk SepOct11

TOMAHAWK July - August 2011 3

By Rev. Bobby Basham District Commander

I hope you were able to make our Potomac Rodeo. It was a terrific Pow Wow with lots to laugh about. I want to thank our Pow Wow Coordinator and Dep-

uty Commander Tracy Groves and his team for a excel-lent job and helping us to laugh and to enjoy living for Jesus! Just for the record, I did out ride the executive team on the bull, but I have to admit – the pig whipped us! Just so you know, I didn’t even know I would be getting up close and personal with this creature. From our special guests, to the events and the evening ser-vices, even though it rained for the first time in many years in the evening, God showed up and touched all of our lives and reminded us, He is coming back. The events of this past week in August with the earthquake and hurricane should remind us, the Earth awaits for the coming King and I hope you do, too. Everyone worked so hard — the executive and dis-trict staff and many sectional staff members, Ranger leaders and even dads —to help make our Pow Wow all that it was. But it is now history with hopefully great memories. I have been asked , ―How do we top off this past year’s event?‖ Well, I have great trust in our Pow Wow team that next year will be just as great and I know they will try to outdo themselves again. Next year we will be celebrating 50 years of Royal Rangers and the world will be focusing in on the 2012 Olympics. So we have thought it through and will be doing our very own Potomac Olympic Games, and I am sure with a ―twist.‖ We will be also working on making this a very memorable Pow Wow with a look back and then with a look ahead of what God is still doing through this great ministry. As you think about it , pray for us, the executive staff, as we plan and prepare for 2012 Pow Wow. On a final note, chartering season is here and please make sure you are making plans for next year’s Campo-rama in Eagle Rock, Missouri.

Rodeo Recollections Supporting Churches,

Businesses & Individuals

Special thanks to our Supporting Churches, Sec-tions, Businesses and Individuals. Your generosity enables further enhancements to this ministry. Any-one wishing to join our group of supporters may request an application from the Potomac District Royal Ranger office, email [email protected].

SILVER MEMBERS

Rev. Bobby Basham Cross Junction, Va.

GOLD MEMBERS

Projects Unlimited - Gary Groves Eldersburg, Md. Tracy Groves Eldersburg, Md.

SUPPORTING CHURCHES

Outpost 2 Trinity Assembly of God Lanham, Md.

Outpost 6 Pasadena Assembly of God Pasadena, Md.

Outpost 9 Calvary Assembly of God Frederick, Md.

Outpost 18 Eastern Assembly of God Baltimore, Md.

Outpost 27 Glad Tidings Church Norfolk, Va.

Outpost 46 Bethel Assembly of God Savage,Md.

Outpost 47 Trinity Assembly of God Lutherville,Md.

Outpost 49 Centerpointe Church at Fair Oaks Fairfax, Va.

Outpost 60 Manassas Assembly of God Bristow, Va.

Outpost 64 First Assembly of God Elkton, Md.

Outpost 81 Trinity Assembly of God Fairmont, W.Va.

Outpost 82 Hayfield Assembly of God Gore, Va.

Outpost 89 Bethel Assembly of God Martinsburg, W.Va.

Outpost 100 Hancock Assembly of God Hancock, Md.

Outpost 124 Julilee Christian Center Fairfax, Va.

Outpost 152 Lighthouse Worship Center Hayes, Va.

Outpost 186 Hazel River Assembly of God Rixeyville, Va.

Outpost 215 River of Life Assembly of God Spotsylvania, Va.

Outpost 232 First Assembly of God Harrisonburg, Va.

Outpost 240 Living Word Community Church Mechanicsville, Md.

Outpost 277 Ocean City Worship Center Berlin, Md.

INDIVIDUAL DONORS

Don & Sara Frey Falling Waters, W.Va. Homer Kitchen Gerrardstown, W.Va. Gary & Faye Groves Eldersburg, Md. Phil Georg Brunswick, Md. Rev. McGraw

DIRECTOR’S MEMO

Page 4: Tomahawk SepOct11

TOMAHAWK July - August 2011 4

Potomac Rodeo 2011 District Pow Wow in Review

Photos by Greg Jones & Gary Wagner

Page 5: Tomahawk SepOct11

TOMAHAWK July - August 2011 5

Potomac Rodeo 2011 District Pow Wow in Review

Page 6: Tomahawk SepOct11

TOMAHAWK July - August 2011 6

Potomac Rodeo 2011 District Pow Wow in Review

TOMAHAWK July - August 2011 6

Page 7: Tomahawk SepOct11

TOMAHAWK July - August 2011 7

Potomac District Executive Staff welcomes new members

T he Potomac District execu-tive staff approved three new members earlier this

year with the goal of providing leadership training and develop-ment opportunities at the district level for young men serving with Royal Rangers. Christopher Basham of Stevens City, Va., was welcomed to a new position as assistant productions coordinator. Chris currently at-tends Hayfield Assembly of God and serves as the Discov-ery Ranger group com-mander with Outpost 82. First involved with Rangers as a Buckaroo, Chris graduated from high school in 2009 and is currently enrolled at Lord Fairfax Community Col-lege. When he’s not on the job at Sheetz, Chris’ hob-bies and interests include computers and ―the occa-sional video game.‖ He also serves in his church as media director and youth leader. As a junior aide de camp, his goal is ―to assist the dis-trict staff in any capacity that I can,‖ says Chris. Isaac Brannon from Chesapeake Beach, Md., was added to the exec-utive staff as a new junior aide de camp. Isaac has been active in Royal Rangers for nine years, starting as a Straight Arrow and currently in his second year as an Expedition Ranger. He and his family attend Full Gospel Assembly of God in Prince Frederick, Md. As a member of Royal Ranger Outpost 74, Isaac currently serves as the outpost’s senior guide, and just recently started working as a junior com-mander to assist the Adventure Rangers in their skill merits.

Isaac is active in other minis-tries at his church, where he plays keyboard for his church’s worship team each Sunday. He’s also in-volved in the church youth group and serves with the youth worship band. As a 10th grade high school stu-dent, Isaac is currently ranked eighth out of 433 students in his class for academics at Hunting-town School. He is active in the school’s choral program. In addi-

tion to performing with his high school choir, Isaac has also per-formed in three Maryland All-State choirs, as well as several oth-er tri-county and Calvert County honor choirs. Among his other special inter-ests and hobbies, Isaac includes camping, biking, kayaking, back-packing and snowboarding. ―As a junior aide de camp, I hope to serve the Potomac District in any way possible by providing support and assistance through whatever tasks I receive,‖ com-ments Isaac. ―I hope to set a good example for my fellow Rangers to follow, and to inspire other boys to pursue their GMAs and strive to be lead-ers in their churches, outposts, schools and communities,‖ he adds.

An appointment as an addition-al junior aide de camp was ap-proved for Dale Eger, a member of Outpost 6 at Pasadena Assembly of God in Pasadena, Md. A Royal Ranger since age five, Dale is currently an Expedition Ranger and occasionally assists in leadership with his outpost’s Ad-venture Ranger group. A resident of Severn, Md., Dale graduated from high school in March and is currently employed

with Mike Cocolin and Son Plumb-ing as a Maryland state plumbing apprentice. Apart from Royal Rangers, Dale enjoys hunting and just shooting his bow for fun. But his passion, he says, is for missions. ―I love and have a heart for mis-sions. I have been on six missions trips and loved everyone and will continue going on them as long as I am capable to do so,‖ explains Dale. As a junior aide de camp, Dale said his purpose will be ―to give an insight to staff from a boy who has grown up in Royal Rangers.‖ His intent, he adds, is to fulfill his oath as a Gold Medalist, ―to give back more to Royal Rangers than all it has ever given to me.‖

Chris Basham Isaac Brannon Dale Eger

Page 8: Tomahawk SepOct11

TOMAHAWK July - August 2011 8

E ric Pixler, 37, passed away unexpectedly on June 10.

Eric was serving as the Ranger Kids leader for Outpost 10 at Calvary Assembly of God in Hampton, Va. He is survived by his wife of 11 years, April, and their four children.

Eric Pixler

IN MEMORY

Remembering Marty Heffner

The miles travelled, the mountain top campsites and the waterways provided just the place where we cultivated a relationship and friendship built on trust, faith and mutual appreciation for each other. Countless are the stories about our adventures or in some cases misadventures. The blood, sweat, tears and blisters that we experi-enced were but small prices to pay for such a rich and rewarding friendship that we shared. Despite Marty, well, just being Marty, he was an intelligent, artic-ulate man with a technical mind that could dissect a problem or present a point of view that could stop you in your tracks. Marty was brutally honest and strived to live his life with integrity. In my opin-ion, he succeeded. He was a mentor to many young men and boys that needed guidance. He didn’t mind spend-ing the time; he was a patient man. He would take old and broken down computers, re-build them often at his own expense, and do-nate them to those in need.

Marty was insightful and, yes, told really corny jokes. Those will be missed. Few knew this, but he could throw a mean horseshoe. He was a fun-loving man who loved to play and carry on with the kids he mentored. Marty above all else was a true friend. My father often told me that a man was truly blessed if he had just a few friends that you could really count on when all oth-ers faded. Marty was just that sort. Above all, he demonstrated faith and loved working to help those that needed a boost. Often on back-packing trips, he stayed behind to help the slower kids needing en-couragement.

By Rev. Dan Harlan

B orn in Baltimore March 31, 1954, Marty Heffner went to be with the Lord on June 25

suddenly and unexpectedly after swimming with some friends. The unexpected loss of a loved one or friend is news that is diffi-cult to understand. We struggle to make sense of things that are be-yond our thought or comprehen-sion. We ask the unknowable such as why or how or for what reason. In truth, only God knows, and in that we must be content although sorrowful. Our loss leaves a vacuum that will in most ways never be filled. How do you in just a few short moments sum up a person’s life and their impact? Marty was many things to different people, but to me he was a life-long friend that few ever have, and one that cannot be replaced. I first met Marty in 1980 some 31 years ago working with Royal Rangers when we realized our common interest in the outdoors.

A few moments during the Saturday evening service at Potomac District Pow Wow were set aside for reflection on the recent loss of one of the district’s most devoted and accomplished Ranger leaders. The following is excerpted from the tribute shared by former district commander Rev. Dan Harlan.

Born in New London, Conn., Eric had been a Hampton resident for several years. Eric served in the U.S. Navy from 1992 to 2007. He currently was working for Phelps Landscaping Service and Ber-ceuse Funeral and Cremation Traditions, both in Hampton. The family wishes expressions of sympathy to please take the form of contributions to the Eric C. Pixler Memorial Fund, c/o Calvary Assembly of God, 1380 N. Mallory St., Hampton, Va. 23663.

SEE MEMORY ON PAGE 11

Page 9: Tomahawk SepOct11

TOMAHAWK July - August 2011 9

Junior Training Camps Draw Record Turnout By Bob Blessing Junior Training Coordinator

A nother successful Junior Leadership Training Academy (JLTA) was held

at Camp Saffran August 7-10. This year the Potomac District boys came out strong with a record at-tendance of 54 boys in the Junior Leadership Training Camp (JL), 17 in Junior Survival Camp (JSC) and 11 in the Advanced Junior Leader-ship Training Camp (AJ). At told, 83 boys in the Potomac District worked in the Ranger Way learning new skills and taking an-other step towards earning their saber. We experienced hot weather with an occasional downburst of rain. Everyone weathered the storms quite well. During the council fire services, God moved in a mighty way with one baptism in the Holy Spirit, three healings, 16 rededications and three who strengthened their walk with God. Competition between the pa-trols was a fun thing to watch. JL’s

Mighty Mice, Bucking Broncos, Powerful Pythons, Blazing Eagles, Mighty Tweety Birds and Raging Tigers, JSC’s Vicious Vipers and Faithful Falcons, and the AJ Majes-tic Mastodons and Leaping Leop-ards — each patrol exhibited their own patrol song and yell much to the enjoyment of the 19 staff mem-bers and the seven junior staff members. Staff members included Bob Blessing, Homer Kitchen, Rev. Bobby Basham, Bill Chestnut, Craig Powis, Tyler Mazer, Paul Eley, Paul Douglas, Warren Bills, Wade Thorp, Rick Powers, Mark Brannon, Lynn Whitely, Chris Ba-sham, Stuart Fluke, Randy Finke, Brian Isom, Marvin Boswell and Jim Harris. Junior staff members were Dale Eger, Fitz Morse, Matt Bibby, Daniel Garner, Trevor Britt, An-drew Fluke and Ben Fluke. Congratulations and well done to all the Rangers who attended this year’s JLTA. Graduates are listed below by the camps they attended.

ADVANCED JUNIOR

LEADERSHIP TRAINING

CAMP

Seyi Olusina David Boswell Jacob Giesing Marcus Ramsey Nicholas Miller Adrian Bills Isaac Brannon Robert Hertless Daniel Coleman William Staub Eddie Brown

JUNIOR SURVIVAL

CAMP

Joe Johnson Nicholas Powers Ian Johnson Glenn Hannold Jessie Diamond Steve Maobekeub Camden Schulz Paromi Karlo Caleb Hamilton Dominic Powers Thomas Horton Caleb Brannon Keiron Fontaine Steven Louissaint Cedric Schulz Austin Pratscher Kitawan Karlo

JUNIOR LEADERSHIP

TRAINING CAMP

John Aldrich Alex Hertless Kyler Kerns Cameron Haddock Martin Simpkins Samuel Bryant John Simpkins Andrew Lewis Ronald Forman Chisholm Willhelm Luke McQuay Micah Nissly Matthew Finke Eric Kennedy Justin Welch David Gears Peter Stauffer Nathan Sanchez Coale Davidson Trevor Hayes Peter Kim Bryan Sibell John Henderson Victor Dixon Paul Eley Jr Aaron Cucina Isaiah Padgett Dillon Aldrich Jon Chestnut Dalton Kerns Hunter Lidke Jacob Rush John Chevere David Hannold Chase Isom Joshua Schucki Louis Tennent Joshua Simpson Ryan Whitely Justin Wilson Caleb Richters Richie Allgood Ben Henderson Jacob Disque Robert Kimball Aaron Bohot Jason Eastabrook Taylor Bradshaw Danny Sibell Benjamin Hudson Trae Miller Jonathan Cross Daniel Jarrell Devin Cook

District Cmdr. Bobby Basham instructs JTC students in rope craft during this summer’s training camp.

Page 10: Tomahawk SepOct11

TOMAHAWK July - August 2011 10

that has made us such a desirable group of which to be a part. Let's get their time in the Blue Ridge Chapter started off right. Not only should we make every effort to provide them with an ex-

By Bill “Red Paddle” Chestnut

I am happy to say we had an-other successful ―Great Adven-ture‖ this year at the start of

Pow Wow. We had 28 new green-horns complete their Great Adven-ture. One of the things that makes this group special is that 25 of the 28 are young bucks. This is another example of the Blue Ridge Chapter at its best. Thanks to everyone for all their hard work. It’s the excellence and enthusiasm of the membership

Blue Ridge Chapter’s Newest Members

W elcome to the newest members of the Blue Ridge Chapter. Those named here successfully

completed their Great Adventure at the 2011 Potomac District Pow Wow.

Kolin Johnson Nathan Sanchez Mathew Finke Danny Sibell Bryan Sibell

Micah Nissley Elijah Enriquez

Joel Metzger Daniel Jarrell

Jonathan Cross Jack Wood

Stephen Mckee Daniel Coleman

Bill Bassett Jr.

Ryan Gardiner Charlie Hinkle

Cameron Haddock Trae Miller Micah Kidd

Samuel Bryant Greg Barr

Joseph Johnson Bill Bassett Sr. Kenny Hinkle Jarod Mazer Ethan Lucky

Nicholas Miller Eric Kennedy

The Powder Keg NEWS FOR & ABOUT FRONTIERSMEN CAMPING FELLOWSHIP MEMBERS

President’s Greeting

National FCF President to Speak at Territorial Rendezvous

citing and memorable Fall Trace let's try to give every one of the new members a chance to experi-ence a Territorial Rendezvous. The Rendezvous will be held Oct. 7 – 9 at Honey Grove, Pa. With fellow FCFers from all over the northeast, it will be a good time of fellowship, challenging competitions, and an opportunity to hear what God has laid on the heart of our National President, Paul ―Grey Owl‖ Walters. God Bless and have a safe trip to the Trace. See you there!

Rangers listen intently during one of the Great Adventure instruction sessions for new FCF greenhorns during District Pow Wow.

Slow roasting a pig over an open fire in Pow Wow’s FCF village.

Page 11: Tomahawk SepOct11

TOMAHAWK July - August 2011 11

Bethel Assembly of God in Franklin,

Va.

The Detention Center arranged

for everyone in the facility to take part

— 40 boys, nine girls and 14 security

counselors gathered with the men in

the gym for the event.

The men called the boys by name

to their side, and the boys and “dads”

selected one of the nine girls, who are

also detainees, to join them. In a few

minutes, everyone was in a “family.”

Lunch was served, and the boys

and men, along with the girls, sat un-

der a large picnic shelter, out of the

hot sun. A story about a street

evangelist laying down his life

to bring the gospel to someone

bound up in rebellion and sin

was shared, and the inmates

were encouraged to turn to

their “dads” for prayer. Thir-

teen boys and four girls re-

ceived Jesus Christ as Savior.

Most of these kids had

never attended a cookout be-

fore: many of these men had

never led anyone to Christ

before. Bibles and devotional

materials were distributed, and many

hugs were shared.

They played games in the exercise

yard, had a tug-of-war that seemed to

go on forever, and laughed till they

were exhausted. A common bond in

the Savior was found that day, and

few will forget it. Many of the men

said they would like to return to minis-

ter here again.

The gospel was proclaimed, souls

were added to the Kingdom of God,

and believers were encouraged in their

faith. All in all, it was a very success-

ful event.

Royal Rangers Host Father-Son Cookout at Norfolk Juvenile Detention Center

Pictured at the outdoor sign for the Norfolk Juvenile Detention Center are (l. to r.) the author, Tidewater South Sectional Cmdr. Roger Riendeau and Cmdr. Frank Timmons.

By Cmdr. Glenn Sorrentino Outpost 158

O n Saturday, July 2, 22 men

met in the foyer at Norfolk

Juvenile Detention Center.

Their main objective: to invade the

lives of the boys detained there.

The plan was to have each man

“adopt” two of the boys and spend the

day with them, playing games, eating

hot dogs and hamburgers, and just

enjoying each other’s company.

Somewhere along the way, the gospel

would be shared.

The men prayed together, drew

the names of the boys out of a plastic

jar, and the new “dads’” were congrat-

ulated. All the men were from church-

es across the Tidewater South Section,

many of them Royal Ranger Com-

manders, but some just dads who

wanted to help out.

The boys were all from Norfolk,

and had all been arrested on felony

charges. Most of them do not have

dads. These two groups did not have

much in common.

This event was long in the mak-

ing, being coordinated in a joint effort

between Outpost 158 leaders at Har-

vest Assembly of God in Chesapeake,

Va., and Outpost 381 leaders from The men who participated in the father-son cookout take time for a group photo in the detention center’s foyer.

Page 12: Tomahawk SepOct11

TOMAHAWK July - August 2011 12

The only somewhat difficult part in all this is the initial selection of an on-line and test site provider. Here is what I mean. Prior to reg-istering, paying for, and taking any on-line material, you must make sure that the provider has a skills testing facility near you and that they have testing hours when you can ever get there to complete the course. Most of the training pro-viders have a search system to show you where skills testing loca-tions are in your area. The other consideration you need to make is based on the certi-fication of the provider of the training. Remember that the train-ing must be offered by a ―certified training agency.‖ Now, that is not to say that ―Jim Bob's School of Taxidermy and Salsa Lessons‖ would not qualify as a certified training agency. (Apologies to all the Jim Bob’s out there, along with all the taxider-mists and salsa professionals. I love the chunky kind.) When I evaluate an on-line provider to see if it is somewhere I would want to learn my chest compression techniques from, I look on their website for infor-mation about their certifications. They usually say, in very bold print on the main page, or on an ―information‖ or ―FAQ‖ page, the standards they teach, such as

American Heart Associa-tion (AHA) Guidelines,

OSHA, Green Cross, or ECC/

ILCA. Some may even be associated with

American Red Cross (ARC). AHA is the most common set of

guidelines the providers will refer-ence. To begin your search for on-line providers, you might use some or all of these search terms: ―online First Aid‖, ―online CPR,‖ ―blended CPR,‖ ―online CPR skills,‖ and probably others I have missed. While there are no hard criteria that are absolute, these are a few things to look for. Here are examples of some sites that offer skills testing in the Potomac District that state their supporting teaching standards:

www.onlineaha.org This site describes their standards and op-tions starting on the main page. They offer skills and non-skills based certifications. Be sure to take a course with skills testing involved in order for it to satisfy Royal Ranger requirements.

http://www.profirstaid.com/en/ This group offers more advanced training in addition to the First Aid/CPR levels we require.

SEE FIRST AID ON PAGE 12

On-Line First Aid/CPR Courses Offer Economical Alternative But Use Caution to Ensure Ranger Training Guidelines are Satisfied

By Phil Georg >>> District Training Coordinator TRAINING CORNER TRAINING CORNER

W e are not going to stop or lessen our efforts to be a safe and prepared

group of leaders for our very active groups of young men. The First Aid and CPR advancement re-quirements for both boys and lead-ers are not going away; neither should we ever seek that they should. Nevertheless, we face a chal-lenge in accommodating the dra-matic increase in the cost of the American Red Cross (ARC) First Aid/CPR/AED course, which is now priced between $90 to $110, depending on location. It is in our best interests to see if there are any more economical means to this end. The best option that we can find for getting First Aid certifica-tion is to take a hybrid, or ―blended‖ style on-line course. This involves being able to get on-line enough to take the coursework at home, church, internet cafe or library type facility. Then, each leader or Ranger taking the course must physically go to a testing cen-ter associated with the training group you took the on-line testing through. Most on-line courses will not provide proof of course com-pletion until you accomplish both

the online testing and the physical

testing compo-nents.

Page 13: Tomahawk SepOct11

TOMAHAWK July - August 2011 13

http://www.safetyserve.com/

firstaid/ This group also offers multiple Frist Aid/CPR courses.

An example of a BAD site is www.firstaidweb.com. Don't be fooled: this website’s FAQ page and main page do contain descrip-tions of standards that they meet, but no skills testing is required to get certification. This does not satisfy Royal Ranger requirements. Please use this information as a guide, and do your own due-diligence before you involve your outpost, boys or leaders. I recom-mend having you or some of your leaders take a course you think might be a good one prior to work-ing with the boys to go through it.

The course must include demon-stration and evaluation of the skills learned in a practical exercise in front of a live instructor.

Q: Must the course be taken from

the American Red Cross, or can I take it from some other group?

A: The course taken must be

through a ―certified training agen-cy.‖ We do not limit certification to only one national recognized organization. See the Gold First Aid-CPR merit for examples of accepted organizations. Red Cross is a well-respected organization but not always available in all parts of the country, so other na-tionally recognized training organ-izations will be accepted. The na-tional Royal Rangers website speci-fies: The First Aid/CPR course may be completed through any nationally recognized qualified organization such as the American

S ome of the following infor-mation was included in a previous edition of the Toma-

hawk, but we expand our coverage of the topic here. Recently, Nation-al Training Coordinator Steve Schultz answered some specific questions regarding Royal Ranger requirements for First Aid training.

Q: Does the First Aid requirement

need to be taken as the "Adult" version of the course?

A: The Infant, Child, or Adult

version of the course will satisfy the First Aid requirement.

Q: May the course be taken on the

Internet, or does it need to be at-tended in person?

A: The course may be taken on-

line as long as the coursework re-quires an in-person skills test to get credit for the course. The national Royal Rangers website specifies:

FIRST AID

TRAINING CORNER

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 6

T here will be one more district-provided Ranger

Essentials course offered this year on Oct. 1, 2011. The location will be Ha-zel River Assembly of God in Culpeper, Va. There will be a pre-registration form coming through your sectional training coordinators, so watch for it in the next few weeks. Ranger Essentials is a re-quired course under the new Rangers Ministry Academy (RMA) training system. The RMA has been established to

First Aid FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Red Cross, the Green Cross, or the American Heart Association.

Q: Does the training coursework

need to contain the AED portion of the curricula?

A: Not required but would be a

nice addition to any certification.

Q: Would the AED portion of the

training require the attendance at a physical skill test, or would an on-line skills testing and certification from the training vendor qualify?

A: It would require a skill test in

my opinion to receive certification in AEDs.

follow the former LMA training track. For anyone to attain any level of train-ing within the RMA sys-tem, they must have taken Ranger Essentials.

This and other training events will be offered by both

sectional and district staff. You may inquire to either source about training that may be com-ing up soon. All Ranger leaders – new or veteran – are encouraged to make every effort to take this foundational leadership training as soon as possible.

Ranger Essentials Course Offered October 1st in Culpeper

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TOMAHAWK July - August 2011 14

Potomac District

Tops in Chartering

After five years of declining numbers of Royal Rangers and leaders chartered annually in Poto-mac District, we saw that troubling trend reverse for the last charter year for 2010-2011. In the latest chartering year, Potomac District saw an increase of 116 people chartered above the previous year’s number. As report-ed at National Council, Potomac District also had the strongest chartering report of any district in the nation. As of June 29 this year, there were a total of 2,670 Rangers and leaders chartered in the district. A breakdown of that number by age group and types of churches is provided below. Of course, we’re now in a new chartering season for 2011-2012, and have until Oct. 30 to update all current charters. Please don’t de-lay; let’s work diligently to pro-vide a responsible accounting of our ministry. In so doing, we sup-port not only the National Royal Ranger ministry, but our own Po-tomac District Royal Ranger minis-try as well.

Royal Ranger Alumni Work and Fellowship at District Pow Wow

This summer’s Potomac District Pow Wow was supported by 18 members of the Royal Ranger Alumni (RRA) who were in attendance. Through their staffing and operation of the Pow Wow concession stand, and sales of hot dogs, sodas, candy and the ever-popular snow cones, RRA members raised a significant amount of funds for the district. But, all work and no play …? During Pow Wow, RRA members briefly excused themselves to enjoy their second annual dinner reunion, pictured above, which was enjoyed by 14 alumni. RRA in Potomac District continues to grow. Most recently, the group welcomed Richard W. Baker to their ranks. The RRA program was inaugurated to provide a method by which Ranger leaders (age 55 plus) may continue to serve as a vital part of the Ranger ministry. Those interested in joining the ranks of the RRA can contact their sectional commander or sectional RRA coordinator for an application.

DISTRICT NEWS & INFORMATION DISTRICT NEWS & INFORMATION

Ranger Kids 596

Discovery Rangers 726

Adventure Rangers 485

Expedition Rangers 214

Total of boys 2,020

Commanders 650

Grand Total 2,670

110 Outposts Chartered

76 Assembly of God Churches

12 PCCNA (Church of God)

22 Independent Churches

Chartering is a unique and beneficial

program that allows churches to re-

ceive discounts and exclusive re-

sources when they register (charter)

their Royal Rangers program with the

national office. Chartering provides

important information to the national

Royal Rangers ministry that enables

them to monitor and shape the success

and well-being of Royal Rangers and

supports the ongoing development and

improvement of the ministry. For addi-

tional information on chartering, down-

load the Royal Rangers Chartering

Brochure or visit our chartering FAQ

page at www.royalrangers.ag.org.

2010-2011 CHARTER REPORT FOR POTOMAC DISTRICT

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TOMAHAWK July - August 2011 15

DISTRICT NEWS & INFORMATION DISTRICT NEWS & INFORMATION

H ave you lost anything at Po-tomac District Pow Wow or

any of the JLTA training camps? Deputy District Cmdr. Homer Kitchen faithfully gathers up all the gear typically left behind from each Pow Wow weekend—hats, T-shirts, camp chairs, towels, sun-glasses, you name it. Broken or damaged items are disposed of, and no, he doesn’t keep socks, un-derwear or soap either. He has to rent a trailer each year to haul the stuff off. OK, may-

be that’s exaggerating the point a bit, as the Geico™ gecko is fond of saying, but hopefully you appreci-ate the message. Anyway, Cmdr. Kitchen keeps lost and found items for about three years. After that, he tries to give the goods away to less fortu-nate boys and churches. If you’ve realized since you re-turned home from Pow Wow that you’re missing something of value, give Cmdr. Kitchen a call at 304-229-5793 before he goes donating.

Leave Something Behind?

During Marty Heffner’s 30-plus year Royal Ranger career, he:

Earned his Leaders Medal of Achieve-

ment

Earned a considerable number com-

mander and staff awards

Became a certified training instructor

Was a First Aid and CPR instructor

Instructed at all JLTA’s since 1997

Became an NTC instructor

Attended LTC, NTC, ANTC, NCE, NTT,

BSTC, RKTC

Served on the Eastern Section staff,

Potomac District staff, JLTA staff, NTC staff, FCF staff

Was a wilderness member of the FCF

Blue Ridge Chapter

Was a multiple FCF Free Trapper demon-

strating his servants heart

Joined the Royal Ranger Alumni just prior

to his death

Served Outposts 118, 50 and 18 – all

age groups

Accumulated a patch collection that rivals

any

He was a gentle man, giving so that others could have. He was satisfied with doing rather than being seen. He strived to be the best he could at all he did. Hang-ups? He had a few. But he was no different in that respect that the rest of us. Those pale in compari-son to the depth of his accomplish-ments and the open heart that he demonstrated. Above all, simply, he cared, he gave and he served. Abraham Lincoln said that ―and in the end it’s not the years in your life that count, it’s the life in your years.‖ Marty can be defined as a man that truly lived life to the fullest and finished well. Despite Marty’s impressive and extensive Ranger resume, his pas-sion and real purpose was to see the lost won to Christ. His work with the homeless, in the jails, on the streets, short-term mission trips and in the church expressed his compassion and heart for the lost.

Marty was a bright and talented man, but you would never accuse him of being graceful or nimble. Marty had his own unique style, but you would never accuse him of being a snappy dresser. Simply, Marty was Marty, and that is what drew you to him. Marty was a single man with no children, but he was most happy in the presence of children. Personal-ly, he was the best uncle my kids never had. For the past 31 years, Marty has been a fixture at our home around the holidays. He has been part our lives during the best and worst of times. His place at the table will be missed. The camp fires will not be as bright, the trails will be longer and harder, and the canoe trips will not be as lively without him. Marty was taken from us far too early. His legacy is not one of wealth, riches or fame as we often count these things. Rather, he has defined what devotion, friendship and faith really mean. We fill the holes, we cover the bases and move on in life but I can-not forget, I will not forget. Marty my friend, I miss you.

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 10

MEMORY

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TOMAHAWK July - August 2011 16

Potomac District Royal Rangers on Facebook http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=43063294240

EXECUTIVE STAFF

Rev. Bobby Basham - District Commander 166 Serviceberry Ct. Stephens City, VA 22655

[email protected] (540) 869-8432

Homer Kitchen - Deputy District Commander 8614 Apple Harvest Dr. Gerrardstown, WV 25420

[email protected] (304) 229-5793

Tracy Groves - Deputy District Commander/

Productions Coordinator 2340 Liberty Rd. Eldersburg, MD 21784

[email protected] (410) 781-4906

Bill Chestnut - FCF Chapter President 346 Reservoir Rd. Perryville, MD 21903

[email protected] (410) 378-3735

Phil Georg - Training Coordinator 111 East H St. Brunswick, MD 21716

[email protected] (301) 834-9871

Bob Blessing - Junior Training Coordinator 302 Stiemly Ave. Glen Burnie, MD 21060

[email protected] (410) 760-9330

Rick Vogt - Productions Coordinator 918 Firefly Run Pasadena, MD 21122

[email protected] (410) 439-3507

Chris Basham - Assistant Productions Coordinator 166 Serviceberry Ct. Stephens City, VA 22655

(540) 869-8432

Cliff Jewell - Public Relations/GMA Coordinator P. O. Box 3404 Manassas, VA 20109

[email protected] (703) 475-4422

Gary Wagner - Publications/Outreach Coordinator 3905 Swanson Ct. Fredericksburg, VA 22408

[email protected] (540) 898-7415

Mike Cocolin - Missions Coordinator 8413 Elvaton Rd. Millersville, MD 21108

[email protected] (410) 315-8433

Gary Groves - RR Alumni President 2326 Liberty Rd. Eldersburg, MD 21784

[email protected] (410) 781-0236

Linda Cocolin - Health Officer 8413 Elvaton Rd. Millersville, MD 21108

[email protected] (410) 315-8433

Seth Van de Ven - Special Aide de Camp 3202 Amberley Lane Fairfax, VA 22031

[email protected] (703) 560-5886

Tyler Mazer - Junior Training Aide de Camp 99 Shenandoah View Harpers Ferry, WV 25425

[email protected] (304) 876-1875

Jordan Pfeiffer - Junior Aide de Camp 10100 Grape Myrtle Ct. Manassas, VA 20100

[email protected] (703) 330-1616

Isaac Brannon - Junior Aide de Camp P. O. Box 390 Owings, MD 20736

[email protected] (410) 257-9446

Dale Eger - Junior Aide de Camp 8213 WB & A Rd. Sever, MD 21144

[email protected] (410) 551-3454

Don Frey - Staff Advisor 8 Jericho St. Falling Waters, WV 25419

[email protected] (304) 274-2268

Sam Linn - Staff Advisor 1687 McCoys Ford Rd. Front Royal, VA 22630

[email protected] (540) 635-7497

POTOMAC DISTRICT ROYAL RANGERS

STAFF

SECTIONAL COMMANDERS

Mark Brannon - Capital Virginia Section P. O. Box 390 Owings, MD 20736

[email protected] (410) 257-9446

Mark Brannon - Capital Maryland Section P. O. Box 390 Owings, MD 20736

[email protected] (410) 257-9446

Ken O’Maley - Central Section 11042 Settletown Place Rixeyville, VA 22737

[email protected] (540) 937-6139

Marvin Boswell - Southern Section P. O. Box 35 Rockville, VA 23146

[email protected] (804) 749-8397

Phil Vieth - Tidewater North Section 200 Treis Trail Yorktown, VA 23693

[email protected] (757) 766-8351

Roger Riendeau - Tidewater South Section 7719 Doris Dr. Norfolk, VA 23505

[email protected] (757) 440-8432

Ken Black - Eastern Section P. O. Box 58 Manchester, MD 21102

[email protected] (410) 239-2645

Robert “Buzz” Gregory - Eastern Shore Section 9260 Hickory Mill Rd. Salisbury, MD 21801

[email protected] (410) 742-0415

Jerry Sinden - Northeast Section 1805 Milstream Dr. Frederick, MD 21702

[email protected] (301) 620-0034

Northwest Section Jerry Sinden (Acting)

Andy McKenzie - North Central Section 16415 Brice Hollow Rd. SE Cumberland, MD 21502

[email protected] (301) 759-9454

Western Section Andy McKenzie (Acting)