February 2010 www.hwscouting.ca

Upcoming Events

February 2010 2 Tickets for Hamilton Wentworth Area

Awards Banquet go on sale 4 Dundurn Sub Area meeting 5-7 Hermitage Springs Sub Area camp 7 Albion Mills Sub Area meeting 8 King’s Head Sub Area meeting 11 Battlefields CMC 12-14 Klondike Winter Camp 13-Mohawk Trails Kub Kar Rally 14 Valentines Day 15 Family Day 16 H-W Area Training Team 18 H-W Commissioners Council 7 PM 19-21 Snow Moot 21-28 Scout-Guide Week 22 Nominations for Voting Member Close 22 Last day for Groups to submit Voting Reps’ names 22 BP’s birthday 23 Deadline for tickets for H-W Awards

Banquet 26 Nominations for Voting Members posted, Ballots distributed

March 2010 1 H-W Area Honours & Awards Banquet 4 Dundurn Sub Area Meeting 6 Big Rig Run hosted by Welland 7 Albion Mills Sub Area meeting 2 PM 8 King’s Head Sub Area meeting 10 Troop Service Team meeting 10 DISPATCH DEADLINE 11 Battlefields CMC 13-22 Hamilton Scout Shop closed for March Break 14 Daylight Savings Time begins 15-19 March Break School Holiday 24 HVAC 25 Colony/Pack Service Team 26-28 King’s Head Sub Area Camp 27 Last day for Voting Reps to return

election ballots 28 Battlefields Kub Kar Rally

April 2010 1 Election ballots counted 2 Good Friday 2-5 Help Desk closed 2-5 Hamilton Scout Shop closed 4 Easter Sunday 5 Easter Monday 8 Election results presented to CMC 8 Battlefields CMC 9 Election results announced 9-11 Dundurn Sub Area Camp 9-11 Wood Badge Part 1 11 Albion Mills Sub Area meeting 2 PM 12 King’s Head Sub Area meeting

Volume 23 Issue 1

Deadline for the April Dispatch is March 10, 2010

New Battlefields Website Visit the new Battlefields Council website at www.scouts.ca/dnn/bat

Wildlife in Camp Nemo The COYOTE

(Canis latrans) There are few animals in North America that have under gone more extensive persecution than the coyote, but despite all the attempts to exterminate this important predator, it still thrives and makes Camp Nemo its home. Slimmer and smaller than the wolf, the male coyote can weigh as much as 23 kg and stands about 66 cm tall at the shoulder, which would be about mid thigh for most people. Including a bushy 40 cm tail, the coyote has an overall length of about 150 cm. Primarily a carnivore they will eat just about anything. Their main food sources are rabbits, mice, voles as well as berries, fruit and insects. Although coyotes tend to be solitary hunters, they will come together in groups during the winter to hunt larger prey such as white-tailed deer.

In late December we start to see lots of coyote tracks in Camp Nemo as they

come looking for larger prey and the younger coyotes looking

for a mate. At this time of year there can be as many as 10 – 20 coyotes in Camp Nemo at one time. The tracks are 5-5 ½ cm long and the track pattern about 60-70 cm long. The track pattern is the same as a white-tailed deer as the coyote also walks by putting the hind foot into the front foot track. Just like the deer. Thought to be monogamous, a mated pair may stay together for many years. In late April and into May they will have anywhere from three to as many as seven pups. Both the male and female raise the pups in the den which is usually located in a stream bank. Last summer we had a family of coyotes in Camp Nemo, they could be heard yelping and playing almost every evening. These animals have adjusted well to living in close proximity to humans. They are very shy and cautious and prefer to keep clear of people.

continued on page 5…

Adult and Youth Recognition HAMILTON WENTWORTH

SCOUTING AWARDS BANQUET

Creating a Better World Michelangelo Banquet Centre Upper Ottawa near Rymal Rd

Monday, March 1, 2010 Dinner starts at 6:00 PM (coat check starts at 5:30 PM)

Presentation of Chief Scout and Queen’s Venturer Awards

Long Service Awards Outstanding Service Awards

Donor Recognition Adult and Youth Recognition

Cost: $30.00 per person (cheques made to Scouts Canada preferred)

Musical entertainment: talented young fiddler Liam Mcglashon!

Tickets available at Hamilton Scout House Help Desk starting February 2, 2010

375 James St. S., Hamilton ON, L8P 3B9 (905) 528-5711 - telephone;

(905) 528-7919 - fax; scouts@interlynx.net - e-mail

Ticket Purchase Deadline: February 23, 2010

LOOKING FOR EXCITING PROGRAM IDEAS? Check out the great list of activities available through the HICOP at Camp Nemo. See page 7.

The Scouter’s Dispatch February 2010 Page 2

Hamilton Wentworth Area publishes the Scouter’s Dispatch six times a year. Co-Editors: Jackie French, Bob Miller. The Scouter’s Dispatch serves as a program resource for Scouters and other adults who work with young people. Editorial contributions are made on a voluntary basis. Unsolicited submissions are welcome. You may E-mail submissions to bob_miller@mountaincable.net or frenchjackie@mountaincable.net . Scout House is located at 375 James St. S., Hamilton, Ontario L8P 3B9 1-888-SCOUTS-NOW FAX (905) 528-7919 Scout Shop (905) 528-4662 Help Desk call (905) 528-5711 Advertising Policy: Advertisement of a product or service does not indicate endorsement by the publishers. Publishers do not assume any responsibility by warranty or otherwise with respect to products or services advertised.

Commissioner’s Corner Happy New Year to all! So… will we have snow for all our camps? Or will it be the famous Camp Nemo mud? As we start the month of February, many groups will be planning to hold their Scout week celebrations. Packs are busy putting the finishing touches on their Kub Kars and looking forward to racing them at the various Kub Kar rallies. Good luck to all the racers! February also marks the start of our annual “Bring A Friend” Campaign. We are happy to announce that once again this year, during the month of February, youth or adults who join as a result of a Bring A Friend campaign at a Group or Section will receive a reduced membership fee of $60 (Council fee reduced to $75 and local Hamilton funds to further reduce the fee to $60). This reduced fee will continue after March 1st for all groups. For more information on Bring A Friend and the resources available, see the article entitled “Bring A Friend” on page 9. A special thanks to Doug French and Frank Goodman for organizing and running the Curling Bonspiel again this year. Personally, this was my first experience with curling and I had an unbelievable time. Plus, the money raised from this event goes to help Scout youth in Hamilton Wentworth. The Scouting Auxiliary prepared a wonderful lunch and dinner; thank you to all the Auxiliary members for their hard work. The Honours and Awards Banquet will be

held on March 1st. Tickets are available at the Help Desk This is the night to meet the youth who will be receiving their Chief Scout and Queen’s Venturer awards. It is a time to celebrate their achievements. It is also a time to recognize many Scouters with long service awards as well as awards for outstanding service to Scouting. The HVAC has been working to provide regular activities for all Venturer Companies. Thank you to Todd Martin and his team for organizing and running the Venturer Survival Camp held January 8 to 10 at Camp Nemo. Watch the dispatch for other HVAC events coming up. Don’t forget GAP 100 (Groups Actively Pursuing 100%). GAP 100 is a simple to follow book of ideas that a group can do to actively pursue 100% membership. Thanks to the many Scouters who took training during the months of November and December. Your ongoing commitment to the Scouting program will further improve the great programs for our youth. Check the Dispatch for upcoming Part 1 and Part 2 training opportunities. Be sure to read through the rest of the dispatch for information about upcoming events: Klondike, Snow Moot and Scouting Parade. Please take time to read the letter on the last page of this Dispatch sent to us from Steve Kent, Mike Scott and Rob Stewart. During the past 4 years it’s been an honour

and a privilege to serve the Scouting members of Hamilton Wentworth as your Deputy and Area Commissioner. I’ve been able to meet many new people and along the way have made many new friends. Special thanks to all my family and friends who have supported me along the way. I will continue to be involved in different capacities. Please welcome your new Area Commissioner, Tom Morrow. Hamilton Wentworth will be in good hands with Tom at the helm. Yours in Scouting Gino Sferrazza Area Commissioner Hamilton Wentworth Area ginsfe@ipexna.com

The Mission of Scouting The Mission of Scouting is to

contribute to the education of young people, through a value system

based on the Scout Promise and Law, to help build a better world where people are self-fulfilled as individuals and play a constructive role in society.

Important Election Notice Now is the time to elect Voting Members to the 2010 Scouts Canada AGM. Each Group in Hamilton Wentworth Area is eligible to select three Voting Reps who will cast votes to determine Battlefields’ Council Voting Members. Please make sure your Group selects three Reps to vote for who will represent Battlefields. Remember, if possible, one of these people should be a registered youth member, 16 or older. Check out the Battlefields Web Site at www.scouts.ca/dnn/bat for details.

CAMP NOTICE Effective February 1, 2010 all groups who borrow a key for a building at Camp Nemo will be required to leave a $20 key deposit cheque on file at the Help Desk. If keys for camp are not returned to the Help Desk within two weeks of using camp, the cheque will be cashed. Remember, Camp Factors no longer return a group’s key to the Help Desk.

Our Hamilton Wentworth Area planning calendar contains additional training opportunities. See your Commissioner for details.

WOOD BADGE PART 1

COLONY, PACK & TROOP

SCOUTERS

Saturday, April 10 and Saturday, April 17. Held at St. Matthew’s Church, 126 Plains Road in Burlington. Cost: $25. This training course will be run on two consecutive Saturdays. Learn skills needed to deliver a quality program and have fun. Topics include program planning, camping and outdoor activities, risk management, resources etc. Contact Susan Little: littleivo2@yahoo.com or 905-528-3326

WOOD BADGE PART 2

COLONY, PACK, TROOP and COMPANY

Friday, April 30 to Sunday, May 2 and Friday, May 14 to Sunday May 16. Held at Camp Nemo. Residential. Cost $150. This is a continuation of the Wood Badge Part 1 training. You will learn more skills and will explore other subjects in greater depth. Come and learn, network with other Scouters and have some fun along the way. Registration Deadline: April 16. For more information contact the Help Desk 905-528-5711. Course Coordinator: Patti Troughton 289-396-0886 ptroughton@cogeco.ca

The Scouter’s Dispatch February 2010 Page 3

Join the Iditarod at Camp Nemo

Who? All scouts in Battlefields Council and beyond. What? Klondike Camp- The Iditarod Why? To encourage winter camping skills When? February 12 to 14, 2010 Where? Camp Nemo

Relive the spirit of the Klondike in our version of the Iditarod race. We are encouraging all members to sleep outdoors with the availability of lodges as backup. Buildings are available and outdoor accommodations are at leaders judgment. You will build your own Klondike sled and run it on the trails while experiencing some fun and challenging events. Staff will provide all of your meals, including lunch, which will be prepared by the Scouts on the Iditarod trail. Camp cost is $30 for youth, Leaders at $25. Late registration fee is $5 per additional member after February 2, 2010. This is the event that they wanted to hold at the Olympics but is considered ”too much"! Are you Scout enough? Information and registration packages can be found on the H– W website events page.

Camp Chief Elaine Priest: 905-538-0483, email aseirsgirl@live.com Camp Registrar Patrick Hall: 905 383 2289, email patrickhall@mountaincable.net

Klondike 2010

A note from the DAC Honours & Awards We will be recognizing Scouters starting at the

five year service mark and then at five year intervals. If anyone feels that they are eligible for an award, they should put a note in my envelope at Scout House, listing the years and the groups where they have served. It is particularly important that anyone with split service, (that is, took a year or two off) to notify me to ensure that they are properly recognized. Thanks so much.”

Bruce Riddiough DAC Honours & Awards

TWO Saturdays in APRIL!

WOOD BADGE PART I April 10 & 17, 2010

• Did you miss the training events in November or January?

• Or perhaps you just need time to WARM UP to more Scouting ideas?

• SPRING into action to plan great events for your youth!

Plan to attend a two-Saturday training experience at

St. Matthews Church 126 Plains Road East in Burlington and earn your Part I Wood Badge

Get a Springtime start by gaining the skills, planning ideas and resources you’ll need to help deliver a quality program. Topics include program planning, camping and outdoor activities, risk management, resources, etc.

Contact the Help Desk at (905) 528-5711 or Susan Little (littleivo2@yahoo.com) Course Coordinator

Mohawk Trails Kub Kar Rally Sat., Feb. 13, 2010 Mount Hope.

Registration to start at noon.

Snow Moot 2010

Feb 19 – 21, 2010 Mt. Nemo Scout Camp

Cost before Feb 1: $15 per person Cost after Feb 1: $20 per person Participants MUST be at least 16 years of age. Each group must have at least 1 leader/advisor over 18. Theme: “Hollywood Horrors” Start thinking about all those scary movies you have seen. Cabins Available on First Come Basis. See website for costs and information. NEW THIS YEAR: We will be holding a Food Drive supporting local Food Banks. We ask each person attending to bring a canned good or non-perishable food item. For further information and registration forms: http://sites.google.com/site/snowmoot2010/home

BATTLEFIELDS COUNCIL presents

COLONY, PACK,TROOP and COMPANY

WOOD BADGE PART 2 Advanced Training in Leadership Skills in

two residential weekends. April 30-May 2 and May 14-16, 2010

Mt. Nemo Scout Camp Cost: $150

This is a continuation of the Wood Badge Part 1 training. You will learn more skills and will explore other subjects in greater depth. Come and learn, network with other Scouters and have some fun along the way.

REGISTRATION DEADLINE: April 16

For more information contact The Help Desk 905-528-5711 Course Coordinator Patti Troughton 289-396-0886 ptroughton@cogeco.ca

This is a reminder to Troop Leaders and Company Advisors to notify Gino Sferrazza and Tom Morrow of youth who will be completing their Chief Scout or Queen's Venturer Awards in time for this year's Awards banquet.

Leaders!

PENNY PINCHERS CLUB A big left hand shake thank you to the following 2009 Penny Pinchers for their coin banks for Camp Nemo:

Colin and Joan Barty Tom Evanoff Bill and Chris McCready Kevin O’Halloran Bruce Riddiough Dave and Nancy Wands 13th Hamilton Cub Pack

Remember when your bank is full or nearly full, drop it off at the Help Desk with your name and address and don’t forget to pick up another empty one. If you don’t have one, give it a try and see how it works. We will count it, roll it and send you an income tax receipt. Remember all the money raised goes to Mount Nemo Scout Camp so coins other than pennies are always welcome.

The Scouter’s Dispatch February 2010 Page 4

CURLING PRIZE DONORS Dundas Lion’s Club Alex Mouriopoulos and Tom Wilson Dermody Funeral Homes Terry Lloyd Electric Turkstra Lumber TD Canada Trust Cresmount Funeral Home Griffith’s Auto Urban Zoo Pet Store Home Hardware Chef and Wife

Walmart Popcorn/Jim Bryce Hamilton Builder’s Supply Todd Martin Staples Judy Goodman Frank Goodman Lorne Ellis Steve Allum Jackie French Linda Cameron Paul Goodman Ray Lokun

72nd Scout & Guide Parade “Honouring Our Tradition”

Saturday, May 29th, 2010

Over the last three years we have celebrated a lot of important anniversaries: Scouting’s 100th, Camp Kiawa’s 50th & Camp Nemo’s 60th (2007), the Parade’s 70th (2008), 100 years of Scouting in Hamilton (2009), and now Guiding’s 100th (2010). Over these many years we have developed a lot of traditions and a lot of memories. Tradition is important in our organization. It plays a fundamental role in whom we are. Mention Scouting to anyone and they immediately think of camping & canoeing, respecting the environment, service to others, learning by doing, imaginative activities, and building character in our youth.

However, traditions do not have to be stagnant. One of Scouting’s enduring traditions is its ability to evolve and adapt to the current times. Yes we still hike and sing around campfires, but when was the last time you presented a Bee-Keeper, Blacksmith or Radioman badge? Today we use telecommunications instead of semaphore, geo-caching instead of topography and Gore-Tex instead of rough wool or canvas.

In selecting this year’s Parade theme we wanted to celebrate our traditions and at the same time show how modern Scouting really is. Can you help? We are challenging each sub-Area to select one Hamilton Scouting tradition and create a float demonstrating today’s relevance into the 2010’s. And in another Hamilton tradition, I know that you won’t let us down.

“Hunger is Not an Option” Parade Food Drive

Speaking of traditions, last year was our 20th Annual Food Drive and it was an undeniable success, with over 1 ton of food and $2,000 in cash collected. But I know we can do better. Does your group or section have plans yet for this year’s Food Drive? Is it a part of your weekly or badge programs? How about collecting Hawkeye’s weight in canned goods, or donate the equivalent of one month of your pack’s dues? Can your troop or crew organize a school or community food drive? Is your group committee in the position to donate $100? Remember that a $100 cash donation actually purchases over $500 in valuable food. Too many of our neighbours are going without enough food. Let’s prove that “service to others” is one of our most valuable traditions.

Kevin Thur, Parade Chair

PENINSULA AUTO REPAIR

REPAIRS TO ALL MAKES AND MODELS

93 Plains Road West Andrew Brown Burlington, Ontario shop owner L7T 1E8 Work (905) 633 7999 Cell (905) 515 1399

20% Discount to all members of Scouting

Hamilton-Wentworth takes over Copps Coliseum for ‘Scout Night’ at the Hamilton Bulldogs! On Wednesday, January 13th, Hamilton-Wentworth Area took the Bulldogs by storm… 340 Scouting members, their families and friends participated in this event. At a price of $15/person, those who attended got their game ticket, a hotdog and pop before the game, and a special crest, as well as an opportunity to skate on the rink for 2 hours in the late afternoon.

From any spot within the Coliseum, a very large section within the arena was filled with Scouting scarves, sashes, Beaver Hats, uniforms and smiling faces!

That evening, Hamilton-Wentworth was also fortunate to have an opportunity to run the 50/50 Draw. A big THANK-YOU! to those who assisted with ticket sales: Gino Sferrazza, Vicky Egerland, Brenda Accadia, Bette Kinnaird, Sandra Taylor, Rob McLean, Mark Winchester, Hans Viergever, Tom Evanoff and Bill Stewart. The Area’s “ScOutreach” program will benefit from $629 profit as a result of their efforts and the generous support of all those who purchased tickets during the game.

The Area hopes to build on the success of this year’s event by hosting an event even bigger and better next Season! Keep watching the Dispatch as details unfold for the next ‘Scout Night’ at the Hamilton Bulldogs!

SWEEP! SWISH! BANG! HOORAY! OOPS!!! These were a few of the sounds heard at the Dundas Granite Club during the 12th annual Scout Curling Bonspiel. There was a lot of fun and a good showing of skill by the 64 curlers who participated. The Scouting Auxiliary made sure that we were well fed. We appreciate the generous support of the many prize donors. As a result of everyone's efforts, it was a successful day in raising funds for Camp Nemo.

The Scouter’s Dispatch February 2010 Page 5

“Come visit our site” 1197 Plains Road E.

Burlington 905 637 8085

Property Manager Doug Waller

www.ministorageburlington.ca

Proud supporters of Hamilton Wentworth Scouting

...continued from page 1 In the my past 15 years of hiking in and around Camp Nemo I have only seen these crafty predators two times. Common sense is the key when dealing with coyotes. Never leave food unattended at your camp site, properly dispose of garbage, and never feed any wild animals. Always hike in small groups especially the youth. If you do see a coyote, don’t turn your back or run, bring the group close together and slowly back away. In most cases the coyote may have been curious about all the noise and just had to have a look. Once they have seen people they will turn tail and run just like any other wild animal. According to the Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources there have been no incidents of coyotes attacking humans in Ontario. These intelligent, playful and highly adaptable predators are key to the health of our ecosystem at Camp Nemo. As the top predator they help to control rodents, keep the deer herds healthy by removing the sick and old, and clean up any carrion that might be in camp. If you are very lucky, you might catch a glimpse of the wonderful animals. Marty Albert HICOP

Congratulations Draw Winners!

A sincere thank you goes to ev e r yone i n Ham i l t on W e n t w o r t h A r e a f o r participating in the Scouts Canada popcorn sale this year. Through your efforts and the efforts of members like you, retail sales of nearly $519,000 resulted in a profit of more than $262,000 directly supporting scouting groups in Battlefields Council.

To encourage participation in the popcorn campaign, Battlefields Council provided a series of draw prizes. Groups were asked to submit the names of each adult and youth who sold popcorn at the time of submission of group popcorn & prize orders. Any amount of popcorn sales, one or more items, entitled the seller's name to be submitted to the Council prize draw. Within each of Battlefields’ 13 areas & sub-areas, a first, second & third place draw prize was selected. Prizes: 1st place - $50.00 Scout Shop Gift Certificate; 2nd place - $30.00 Scout Shop Gift Certificate; 3rd place - $20.00 Scout Shop Gift Certificate. The draw was held on January 15, 2010.

The chart below shows the draw winners in H-W Area. They were in 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place within each sub-area (Albion Mills, Dundurn, King's Head, Hermitage Springs, Mohawk Trails). Prizes were Scout Shop gift certificates - 1st - $50, 2nd - $30, 3rd - $20

Congratulations to everyone. We wish you continued success in

Shirley M Volunteer 88th Hamilton Venturer Company

Matthew J Cub 1st Binbrook Cub Pack

Ian B Volunteer 26th Hamilton Cub Pack

Aiden H Beaver 3rd Aldershot Beaver Colony

Dylan A Beaver 47th Hamilton Beaver Colony

Bethany L Cub 14th Hamilton Cub Pack

Mackenzie M Cub 31st Hamilton Cub Pack

Sam G Scout 58th Hamilton Scout Troop

Eric S Venturer 31st Hamilton Venturer Company

Billy B Beaver 6th Ancaster Beaver Colony

Tom B Volunteer 4th Ancaster Scout Troop

Nick P Scout 4th Ancaster Scout Troop

Myles A Scout 63rd Hamilton Scout Troop

Justin E Cub 81st Hamilton Cub Pack

Colin M Scout 63rd Hamilton Scout Troop

Announcing the MOHAWK COLLEGE

ROVER CREW!

Hamilton-Wentworth Area has been working with the Mohawk Students Association toward the establishment and ratification of a new club at Mohawk College, the “Mohawk College Rover Crew”.

What is Rovers? As a part of Scouts Canada’s most Senior Program Section, Rovers, this Crew will include young men and women who are students at Mohawk College, ages 17-26.

• The outdoors is an essential part of the Rover program. Rovers often participate in adventurous activities like mountain climbing, or white water rafting.

• Rovers also help their local communities by running service activities such as food drives, park clean-ups, and tree plantings.

• Rovers meet in a group called a crew. Rovers develop & manage their own program under the mentorship of a respected advisor.

• If you or someone you know is interested in learning more about this Crew, please contact Elizabeth Barrow – ebarrow@scouts.ca for more details.

The Scouter’s Dispatch February 2010 Page 6

We would like to thank our advertisers for helping to reduce the high cost of printing and mailing this Scouter’s Dispatch.

East Mountain License Bureau U-1 1119 Fennell Ave E

Hamilton Ontario 905 383-0314

Fast, courteous service for

renewing your car license sticker, Driver’s License, etc.

And starting in February, your Health Card servicing as Service Ontario.

HAMILTON WENTWORTH GILWELLIANS Gilwellians are leaders who have been presented with their Gilwell Scarf and Beads after completing their Part II Wood Badge course. We meet 4 times a year leading up to the Annual Gilwell Reunion held at the Blue Springs Scout Reserve the weekend after Labour Day each September. If you have received your Scarf and Beads, you are invited to our next meeting (a Pot Luck Dinner) at Scout House on Monday, April 12, 2010. For further information, call Joan Barty at 905-545-8220, cbarty@cogeco.ca.

Beaver Buggy Kits $3.49

$1.29 $1.59 $1.59

Kub Kar Kit $3.49

$1.79 $1.79 $1.79

AWARDS/TROPHIES

$6.99 $8.99 $10.99 $7.99 $7.99

Ribbons 59¢

NEW BOOKS AVAILABLE Working Effectively with Youth and with Youth with Disabilities -$18.95 A Child’s Introduction to the Environment -$19.99

HAMILTON SCOUT SHOP BEAVER BUGGY/KUB KAR

& 18-WHEELER ITEMS NOW IN STOCK

Colony / Pack Service Team News The New Year is here and along with the new year comes new challenges for many groups, therefore more assistance may be required at all levels of leadership! Please feel free to call for help and we can assist you with all your program needs. We are also looking for help in expanding our service team. The more people

we have to lend a hand the easier it is on all to fulfill our duty to our Scouting Mission. We would like to welcome Gail Potter of the 26th Hamilton to our team!! DAC: Cam Napholc 905-388-7993 cam.napholc@sympatico.ca Colony Charlie & Yvonne Oliver (905) 529-9667 cyoliver@distributel.net Brenda Ellison (905) 574-2503 rbrkellison@aol.com Olga Miller (905) 527-5265 olgamiller@cogeco.ca Marion LaCroix (905) 547-7864 tictac68@cogeco.ca Geoffrey Macquire (905)634-0651 gmacquire@cogeco.ca Tammy-Jo Savickis 905-526-0953 info@multimusic.ca Gail Potter 289-337-4600 (Please leave a message) Pack Paul Anderson (905) 692-3579 panderson@mountaincable.net James White (905) 385-7724 akelavw@mountaincable.net Patti Troughton (289) 396-0886 ptroughton@cogeco.ca

Camp Clean up Saturday, April 17th is the day and we start at 9:00 AM and go until every building has had a spring-cleaning in every nook and cranny. A crew is also needed outside (weather permitting) to ensure the fields, trails etc. are also in tip top shape. Lunch is provided. Register at the Help Desk.

The Scouter’s Dispatch February 2010 Page 7

Hans P.J. Viergever, B.Sc., D.D.S Family Dentistry

70 Melvin Ave. Hamilton, Ontario

L8H 2J5

(905) 547-4444

What’s happening at the HICOP There is always lots happening at the Camp Nemo nature centre. Here is a partial list.

Snow Snakes We have some snow snakes at the centre and will be attempting to make a trough every Saturday that there is enough snow. We have some blanks cut for more snakes but we need some strong arms to shape them with the spoke shave and draw knife.

Nest Box Building We have the materials cut for 14 nest boxes. We will be looking for Cubs, Saturdays in March, to put them together for us. This activity will be first come first served.

Frog Watch Starting March 26 we will be taking youth up to one of our camp wetlands to listen to and count frogs. This is a Friday night activity.

Nest Watch We have a number of bird boxes in camp that we monitor . We will be happy to take youth with us as we hike around camp checking the boxes for nests, eggs, chicks etc. This is a Saturday activity starting April 3rd.

Fishing Fishing season in Bronte Creek opens on April 24th. We plan to open a path to Bronte Creek this year so that we can do some fishing.

Fire Lighting We will be continuing the ever popular fire lighting demonstrations on Saturday afternoons all year.

Scout Level badges We will take your Scouts through all the requirements for the Fish and Wildlife or Forestry badges. These are both half day (about 2.5 hours) programs and there is $3 per youth fee. This price includes the badges and all proceeds go to buy consumables such as paper and bird seed for the centre. Badge programs are by appointment.

Cub Program The cub badges and stars are far too involved to be able to do them in a day but we would be happy to do any program related outdoor activity with Cubs.

Meeting nights Do you want to get out of your meeting hall on a weeknight. We will be happy to host Colonies or Packs on a week night. For $2 per youth we will take you on a hike and then open up the visitor centre. There will be a fire in the fire pit and we will supply hot chocolate and coffee. You can bring the fixings for treats such as S’mores or banana boats if you like.

Camp Signboard Watch the camp signboard for information when you are at camp and feel free to post messages on it. A message posted on the bulletin board can help wayward parents find your group. Is there something else that we can do for you? Check out our website (www.hicop.ca) or contact us: info@hicop.ca

The Optimist Club

of Hamilton Will be holding their

19th annual

SWEETHEART DANCE

Entertainment – Light Buffet – Door Prizes Saturday, February 13, 2010

8PM – 1 PM $17.50 per person

at St. Stephen’s Hall

140 Barton St. E. (at Mary St.) Hamilton, ON

We are asking our Scouting friends to join us. For more information please call Laszlo:

(905) 575-0761

CONGRATULATIONS Collin Potter, popcorn coordinator of the 75th Hamilton Group, has been selected as a finalist for the 2 0 1 0 H a m i l t o n Distinguished Citizen of the Year. In 2007, Collin was instrumental in helping with the fund-raising efforts by the Scouts and Venturers of the 75th going to the Canadian Jamboree. When a leader had to cancel out due to health reasons, Collin quickly stepped up, obtained his Police Record Check, registered as a leader and volunteered to go with the troop to the Jamboree. As popcorn coordinator at the 75th, Collin has helped the group increase sales so returning youth could be offered a registration subsidy and adult volunteers had registration paid for them. Collin was nominated by the Hamilton Habitat for Humanity, one of many organizations which benefits from his cheerful helpfulness. Good Luck Collin from all of your friends in Scouting.

The Scouter’s Dispatch February 2010 Page 8

Standard First Aid

with

Adult CPR at

Freeman Scout Hall, Burlington

A ‘neat’ hike opportunity... We received the following in an email from H-W Area Scouter, Heather Lewis: “Wanted to let you know about a neat hike that the 88th Cubs just went on. The Eramosa Karst Conservation Area just recently opened in Stoney Creek, Ontario. We picked a beautiful Saturday afternoon and were lucky enough to have a tour guide with us on our hike, Brad Gaugreau, who is co-chair of the Friends of Eramosa Karst Association. The Eramosa Karst is an escarpment area of limestone with underground drainage, cavities and passages. It's considered the best example of a karst created in Ontario after the last glaciers retreated. Its features include sinkholes, vertical shafts, springs, disappearing streams and the 335-metre long Nexus cave, 10th longest in Ontario. Our Cubs saw caves, dry valleys, soil pipes, solution shafts, sinking streams and overflow sinks. We were able to explore the cave entrance (see picture) and then further on many of the Cubs explored the cave window (see picture) – thank goodness we had flashlights & lots of trail mix to really appreciate this natural wonder! This helped us c o m p l e t e H i k e r , W o r l d Conservation & Black Star badge requirements. For those who live in the area the Eramosa Karst is an ideal hiking spot during all four seasons as well as a place for many Scouting m e m b e r s t o c o m p l e t e c o m m u n i t y /v o l u n t e e r opportunities. Heather Lewis 8 8 t h C u b s Bagheera”

WOW! A great camp STONEY CREEK INTERNATIONAL

SCOUT CAMP June 4, 5, 6, 2010

At Camp Nemo Theme: “Bridging the Gap”

Celebrating over 58 years of Scouting Friendship Camp Registrar: Lois Paterson l_paterson@cogeco.ca

www.stoneycreekcamp.ca Welcoming 3rd year Cubs; Scouts and Venturers

Registration Deadline: April 31, 2010

CONGRATULATIONS! Hamilton Wentworth Area is pleased to announce that the following Scouters have been recognized for their special contributions to Scouting.

Certificate of Commendation Kelly Noble

Medal for Good Service Judy Goodman Steven Grisch Stephanie Hurley Finn Melvar Christa Pissey

Silver Acorn Rick Kawai

ELECTION OF VOTING MEMBERS TO SCOUTS CANADA AGM The period for electing Battlefields’ Voting Members to the Scouts Canada Annual General Meeting starts in January. Nominations for candidates will be accepted until February 22, 2010. In addition, groups should submit the names of their Voting Reps by February 22. For more information, visit the Battlefields Website: www.scouts.ca/dnn/bat Names of nominees for Battlefields’ Voting Members will be posted on the Council website starting February 26. Ballots will be distributed to Voting Reps by February 26. Completed ballots must be returned by March 27, 2010.

International Weekend Camp has some binder twine and rolls of plastic sheeting that we would like to sell. Contact Averill Tune.

Escarpment Realty Inc. Broker Independently Owned and Operated

Todd L. Martin Sales Representative

550 Fennell Ave. East, Suite 221A Hamilton, Ontario, L8V 4S9

Fax: 905-575-7217 24 Hour Pager

ToddandLenny@mountaincable.net

905-575-5478

Saturday, February 13 & Saturday, February 20, 2010

9:00 am. - 5:00 pm. Please bring a bagged lunch & wear comfortable clothes.

Cost $65.00 For information or to register call Chris @ 905-637-8432

The Scouter’s Dispatch February 2010 Page 9

SCOUTING AUXILIARY

The Scouting Auxiliary meet on the second Tuesday of the month, at 1 pm at Scout House. If you can help at special events catering, please let us know by calling Aline at 905-648-5520 alinchan@cogeco.ca. New members are welcome.

The following FRIENDS OF SCOUTING have generously

given a donation to the Hamilton-Wentworth Area and joined our HERITAGE

SCOUT SOCIETY between January 1 and December 31 2009. We may have inadvertently missed someone, know that we do appreciate your gift to Scouting and please accept our apology. The Heritage Scout Society is an important part of our Area financial health and in our inaugural years of 2008 and 2009 we have received $6,000. If you know of any former youth or leaders who might be interested in joining our Alumni please pass their name and address on to the Revenue Development Team through the Help Desk. INDIVIDUAL DONORS

Art Barnwell Aline Chan John Cloke Robert & Betty Coward Len Decker Verna Dell Tom Evanoff Mina Heinbecker Ken Henshaw Stephen Hill Fletcher Hunt Frank & Alice Kawai Anthony Kerigan Tom Klokoff Frank Lauinger Jr. Susan Little David Lord Charles Manning Al Misener Bruce Mochrie Bill Nalepka John Nelson Donald Newton David & Catherine Nicholson Stan & Shirley Oddie John Shea Kevin Thur Tonu Tosine Everett Truax

CORPORATE DONORS

LKDK Management Corp. / John Kranjc

Please note that the Hamilton Scout Shop will be closed from

March 13-22 for March Break. Scout Shop will also be closed April 2 to 5 for Easter.

It’s that time of year again! Last year, Hamilton-Wentworth Area saw an increase in membership of approximately 15 new adult volunteers and 50 new youth into our programs across Hamilton-Wentworth… Let’s beat that number and reach for the stars!

WHAT is ‘Bring A Friend’? Each year, Hamilton-Wentworth Area encourages each of its Groups and Sections to participate in a ‘Bring A Friend’ Campaign. During this time, youth and adult members are encouraged to invite/bring their friend(s) to their weekly section meetings. This can serve as a great opportunity to recruit additional youth members to your section, as well as potentially recruit adults to serve in new volunteer roles within your Program Section(s) or the Group Committee.

WHEN? Your Group or Section can carry out a “Bring A Friend” campaign anytime. Hamilton-Wentworth will kick-off their Area-wide initiative on February 1st and actively continue this campaign until April 1st, 2010. For every new youth or adult member that a section successfully recruits during this time, that section will be entered into a draw to receive pizza for your section!

WHY? Scouts Canada is the country’s leading youth organization offering fun and exciting outdoor adventure for boys, girls and youth aged 5-26 in communities across Canada. We want to introduce MORE local youth to this movement! Our leaders and volunteers are a select group of adults who make a difference in the lives of young people in our communities. We want MORE local adults to have this amazing opportunity! This is also an ideal time to start recruiting new leadership before the start of the next Scouting season. I want to run a Bring A Friend campaign at my Group, but I don’t know how… ...sound familiar? Look no further, because the resources are at your fingertips! Scouts Canada has a number of resources to help leaders in the planning and delivery of a successful Bring A Friend event! This includes sample letters to parents, sample invitations, as well as suggested timelines and other resources that may help make your campaign run smoothly and successfully. **If every section recruited one new member (youth or adult), it would result in at least 110 new members! Contact Elizabeth Barrow, Council Field Executive for further info or to obtain a variety of resource materials, including FAQ’s which would be helpful for group or section leadership teams which are new to the Bring A Friend Campaign, or who are looking to improve on their existing campaigns. E-mail: ebarrow@scouts.ca or Phone: 905-741-4078

VICTORIA DAY 2010 NEEDS YOUR HELP!

Organization is under way for the Scout Sub-Camp for Victoria Day 2010. If you are interested in helping out in anyway, whether it be to run an event, peel some potatoes or be creative with new ideas, we are looking for you.

For more information please contact Sheila Sferrazza at scoutersheila@hotmail.com or 905-389-8212. A great event begins with a great team,

hope you can lend us a hand!

Dispatch Deadlines Sept. 10 for the Oct. 1 Dispatch Nov. 10 for the Dec. 1 Dispatch Jan. 10 for the Feb. 1 Dispatch

March 10 for the April 1 Dispatch June 1 for the June 15 Dispatch

Aug. 10 for the Sept 1 Dispatch Contact:

bob_miller@mountaincable.net frenchjackie@mountaincable.net

The Scouter’s Dispatch February 2010 Page 10