I’ve often heard the saying that the only thing certain is change. As the Boy Scouts of America enters a new year (soon to be our 99th) we are looking at some very exciting changes. I wanted to very briefly update you on a few of these that you can utilize now.
If you have not done so already, please visit www.myscouting.org to set-up your MyScouting account. To do so, you will need your BSA membership ID number (found on your membership card, or just ask me). In MyScouting you will be able to access advancement, training, apply for tour permits, and be a part of the new online Scouting community where you can interact with Scouting volunteers from all over the country. Commissioners can also access the unit visitation tracking system.
Another change that is active now is the new health and physical form. In the past there have been 3 separate forms used for different purposes (Class 1, 2, and 3 forms). A new form, called the “Annual Health & Medical Record” is available now. The old forms will be phased out during 2009, and required effective January 1, 2010. The new form prints out 11″X17″ and can be found at http://www.scouting.org/filestore/pdf/34605_Spread.pdf. You can also find the FAQs on the new form at http://www.scouting.org/HealthandSafety/Resources/MedicalFormFAQs.aspx.
As the 100th anniversary of the BSA draws increasingly closer, you may have noticed more materials coming from our local council. I urge you to visit our council’s website for the anniversary at http://100years.cfcbsa.org for the most updated information on the celebration here in Central Florida. Also, there is an information session for the National Hall of Leadership on Tuesday, January 13 for any adult interested in learning about this oportunity.
Finally, Happy New Year and I look forward to visiting your meetings this winter!
Posted by halifaxbsa 