Updates on Scouts BSA Resident Camp and Camp Stigwandish

Dear LEC Family, 

This is the first of two updates this week. You can expect the second one on Wednesday.

This update includes important information on:

1. SBSA Resident Camp at Beaumont

2. The Legacy of Camp Stigwandish

SBSA Resident Camp at Beaumont

In my last email dated May 22, I shared that the ONLY “decision” about SBSA resident camp that we could have made at this point is to CANCEL. While it has always been our hope to create a path forward to safely operate camp this summer, we realize that we cannot reasonably expect everyone to hang on indefinitely as we await approval from the state to operate. Therefore, the following has been determined:

• Week 1 of Scouts BSA Resident Camp at Beaumont Scout Reservation (June 14-20) will not operate.  

• Prior to making this decision, our camp leadership reached out to all our Week 1 units and are currently assisting them with choosing another week.

• If the Governor/State does NOT lay out plans for resident camp tomorrow, we will no longer pursue our plans to offer SBSA resident camp this summer.

• I encourage you to tune-in to his daily COVID-19 update at 2:00 pm so you can hear it for yourself.

• If resident camps ARE addressed, then we will determine with our board on Wednesday if we can meet the requirements as laid out AND a formal announcement will come sometime on Wednesday.

• As a reminder, we will follow all state and CDC guidelines.

I want to thank you for your patience as we have navigated this journey together. The trail has been arduous, but we are close to the end.

The Legacy of Camp Stigwandish

Ninety years ago, community leaders of Lake, Geauga, and Ashtabula Counties established a camp to provide outdoor adventures for the young men of their communities.  Camp Stigwandish served that purpose for 90 years creating a lifetime of memories and countess Scouting stories.  As you know, following a comprehensive study of occupancy and needed improvements of all LEC properties, the Board of Director’s made the difficult decision to divest Camp Stigwandish.  They chose to auction the property as they felt they could realize the best return for the future of Scouting.  This past Saturday, May 30, 2020, Kiko Auctioneers held that auction on behalf of the Lake Erie Council.  

The auction resulted in $1,649,700 which was designated by the board to be invested into the remaining council properties or to fund significant programs in the future.  

These funds ensure that that the goal of those visionary leaders from ninety years ago will continue to live on.  Funding future projects is not the only legacy that Stigwandish will leave.  Over the past months, groups of volunteers and staff have been dismantling, packing, and moving program equipment, shelters, and memorabilia from Camp Stigwandish to Beaumont Scout Reservation.  Many thanks to Jeff Olree, Terri and Larry Andrews, John and Lisa Shrock, Kim Wheatly, Chris Fortunato, Brian Belfi, Muffy Wheatly, David Metzger, Frank Dworning, Anthony Dworning, Jacob Brown, Bear Roloff and many more for the hard work that made this task happen.

There is an old saying in the outdoors to “leave only footprints and take only memories.”  Over the last ninety years, thousands of Scouts have left their footprints on the trails at Camp Stigwandish. Now it is up to those that left the footprints, to take the memories, and to share the spirit of Scouting and Camp Stigwandish with future generations, to ensure that the legacy is remembered.

Thank you for your continued patience as we navigate these unforeseen circumstances. Again, we will send another update on Wednesday with the final decisions. 

Yours in service to youth and families,

Marc J. Ryan

Scout Executive
Lake Erie Council

LEC Operations Guidebook

Dear LEC Family,

Following the release of my earlier email, I received some questions about the operations guidebook I referenced.  It is understandable that families are looking for more information about what the safety precautions and procedures might look like. As a parent, I certainly understand and respect that. It has always been my goal to be transparent, but sometimes timing is an issue with being able to share information as quickly as possible. The only reason that we did not post it yet is because the guidebook is not approved and is subject to change.. That said, I have decided to share it with you now to give you a full look at the work being done to prepare for a safe open. This is all contingent on it getting approved. 

This guidebook was built with current recommendations and best practices from the American Camping Association, the CDC, the State of Ohio, and BSA National. It considers the current reopening standards issued by the State of Ohio regarding campgrounds, pools, and youth activities and combines them with the recommenced practices of the ACA. However, this version does NOT include the program/ activities schedule and logistics or food service details as initial conversations with the board of health have led to some immediate revisions which are now underway. I will gladly share that next week as we make more inroads. Rest assured that they too have undergone significant changes and will be very different from what you have experienced at camp in the past. Again, I share this as a glimpse into a currently under review DRAFT of submitted procedures so you can begin to get a better idea of how camp would take shape this summer.

Other feedback received suggested that it would be best if we could just have a decision, so folks aren’t being “strung along”. Unlike other things where the Governor or CDC has weighed in, the ONLY “decision” about SBSA resident camp that we could have made at this point is to CANCEL. We are hoping and working to avoid that outcome, but we realize that it is not completely in our control. So, our plan is to “Be Prepared” and be proactive. That is why we created this manual and submitted it as a plan to operate.  

In the past two months, I have read email after email that starts off with something along the lines of “in this uncertain time”. Dealing with a pandemic is not a perfect science and we are doing everything we can to try and make summer camping a viable option. Simply put, we will cease and desist if told we must or if the evidence is clear that we can’t run camp safely. Until then, it remains our intent to put the time and effort into moving forward. I hope the information shared here will help you to move forward with us. But this is your personal choice. Each of us must feel confident that we are ready to take whatever step is confronting our family whether that be school, camp, or even simply gathering with members outside of our family. They are all tough decisions and I pray for each of us to have the clarity we seek in making the one that is best for our own family.

As always, please don’t hesitate to reach out to me with any questions or comments. I will do my best to get back to you ASAP. I hope whatever you do this weekend, that we can all take a few minutes to remember those who have made sacrifices for this great nation that are allowing us to even consider taking part in these kinds of activities.  

Thanks for all you do for Scouting,

Marc Ryan

Scout Executive/CEO
Lake Erie Council, Boy Scouts of America

Operations Guidebook DRAFT

LEC Operations Update - May 22, 2020

Dear Lake Erie Council Families,

Today I am writing to give you the most up to date information on several aspects of our operation including:

• Cleveland Scout Shop/ Unit Service Center

• Cub Scout Summer Programs

• Scouts BSA Summer Programs

• Medical Forms

• Eagle Scout Celebration Event 

• Wood Badge and NYLT

While long, this email contains important information and a look into the process behind how we arrived at certain decisions and what next steps look like.

Cleveland Scout Shop/ Unit Service Center

As shared on Monday, we are pleased to announce that the Scout Shop and Unit Service Center will reopen this coming Tuesday, May 26 at 10:00 AM.

We have been working hard to implement enhanced safety measures to ensure you and our teams safety is the top priority! 

Here are some things you can expect when visiting the either the shop or the service center. 

• The Cleveland Scout Shop will be open Tuesday – Friday 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM and Saturday from 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM.

• The Unit Service Center will be open Monday – Friday 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM.

• Plans for the reopening of the Firelands Scout Shop will be communicated soon.

• Hand sanitizer is available for your use.

• Rigorous cleaning routines will be implemented throughout the day.

• Fitting rooms in the shop have been temporarily closed.

• Prior to beginning every shift in the shop, team members must complete an Employee Health Screening to ensure they are ready and able to work safely.

• Every team member is provided with facial coverings to use during their shifts and are asked to frequently wash their hands throughout their shifts.

• Social distancing markers have been put into place.

• All product returns are being disinfected or quarantined for five business days before returning to the sales floor​.

• Cash will NOT be accepted as a form of payment until further notice to limit the risk of spreading germs. Credit/debit cards and checks will be accepted.

• Payment systems in the shop have been updated to need fewer signatures and to accept contactless pay to include Apple Pay, Google Pay, and Samsung Pay.

• Limited occupancy regulations will be in place.

• We respectfully request you to follow social distancing and safety protocols recommended by public health officials, including wearing a facial covering when visiting to help protect yourself and our team members.

• If you wish to see a member of the council staff, PLEASE MAKE AN APPOINTMENT IN ADVANCE as many will be working from home with regular hours. Staff contact information can be found here. 

Scouts BSA Summer Programs

Since the early onset of COVID-19 and the disruption to our normal operations, I have shared that it was our plan and intention to open camps if we could do so safely and sustainably, meaning Scouts and families would attend. This mindset allowed us to marshal needed resources to be prepared all along so that if we were given the “green light” we would be able to move forward. As you know, the situation and virus continue to evolve. Ohio Governor, Mike DeWine, has now announced plans to reopen campsites, day camps, youth sports, and swimming pools to name a few. We have been anticipating an announcement specific to resident camps, but that announcement has yet to arrive. Therefore, we have taken the months of work and effort put forth by our team and complied a 30 plus page operations guidebook, specific to COVID precautions and protocols and submitted it to the local department of health seeking their approval to operate based on our well-informed and carefully constructed plan. Once approved, this guidebook will be made public and will be part of a multi-pronged communications strategy with virtual meetings to share what we will be doing to make Scouts BSA summer camping as safe as possible for participants this summer. We are anticipating feedback and hopefully approval on our plan next week. An informational meeting will be held this coming Tuesday to discuss programmatic changes for the 2020 season. You can register here. As of today, all Scouts BSA summer programs are on based on our added precautions in addition to the rigorous standards we exceed from the BSA and department of health.

Cub Scout Summer Programs

It is with a heavy heart that we cancel Adventure Camp and Webelos Exploration Camp for this summer. While we looked forward to summer camp, it is clear from both our conversations with pack leadership, survey results, and registrations for our summer programs, that our Cub families are not ready to return to traditional camp this summer. The health and safety of our campers is, and always will be, our number one priority and we understand the concerns amid a pandemic, particularly with camping programs for younger Scouts in a large group capacity. We also have a duty to be good financial stewards for our Scouts, families, and dedicated donors who expect us to be around for the long haul. Without the interest necessary for our traditional programs, we have to pause for this summer.

We understand that while the majority of our Cub Scout families were not planning to attend Adventure Camp or Webelos Exploration Camp this summer, this announcement will hit hardest with the Scouts who were already signed up to attend. Our hearts are heavy alongside yours. We eat and breathe summer camp too. Rest assured that any payment made toward Adventure Camp and Webelos Exploration Camp will be refunded in full. See below for an FAQ on how refunds will be made, and how the announcement will affect camp operations. Know this: Pausing traditional Cub Scout Summer Camps does not indicate any discussion of selling Firelands, nor any less commitment to offering great programs for Cub Scouts throughout the rest of the year and in summers to come.

Summer camp for pack and dens will return, but in the meantime we are excited to offer an alternative for families to continue their Scouting journey in a remote way while incorporating much of what we love about summer camp! Introducing Adventure Camp at Home!

Adventure Camp at Home

Program Highlights:

• At-home kits with fun activities (pick up, or delivered)!

• Campers complete activities on their own time with access to both written and video instructions!

• Earn advancement for Cub Scout ranks!

• Campers are part of small group dens to interact virtually with other campers and two adult camp staff!

• Don’t miss out on favorite camp traditions with streamed flag ceremonies, mealtime entertainment, and campfires!

• Come outside and camp on the weekends with your family and reserve programs to complete the camp experience!

All of this, starting at just $75 per camper!

As a camper with Adventure Camp at Home (ACAH), your Cub Scout will be put into a Virtual Den and receive an age-appropriate kit with fun projects and activities to do at home, complete with written and video instructions produced by our camp staff! Not only will campers complete advancement requirements, but the ACAH activities will take campers outside into their own backyards and neighborhoods to complete challenges, keeping the “outing" in Scouting.

However, without the camp staff, camp is just a pile of rocks and activity instructions. It’s the people that bring summer camp to life, and that’s why every ACAH camper will get to interact with the other members of their small den and their dedicated camp staff through virtual Campfire Chats each evening. These (optional) virtual get-togethers will be perfect for campers to share the activities they completed with one another, to be goofy with our camp staff by singing camp songs, and much more. All live video calls and streams are optional, and will follow youth protection guidelines with two-deep adult leadership.

Here’s the best part: By being an ACAH camper, you’ll be able to participate in Family Camping Weekends! After participating in the at-home program throughout the weekdays, you can complete the adventure by coming out to camp on the weekend with the whole family. Reserve a campsite for your family to enjoy a peaceful weekend by the campfire, or reserve select programs areas for your family to participate in together. You’ll get private access to camp favorites like the mobile climbing wall, shooting sports, nature area, and more. Rigorous cleaning routines will be implemented between uses of the program areas.

—

While we are disappointed by the necessity to pause traditional Cub Scout Summer Camps this year, we think that Adventure Camp at Home will be an engaging, fun, and safe alternative for all our Cub Scout families this summer. Even during a normal summer, not every Pack can attend camp. With ACAH we have the potential to reach even more Cub Scouts to stay engaged with Scouting throughout the summer.

Medical Forms

The BSA’s annual health and medical record (AHMR) currently requires completion / update annually for all participants, in all Scouting events.

Parts A and B are a consent, authorization / risk acknowledgement and a detailed health history. Part C, the pre-participation physical is recommended for all participants but required for any event lasting over 72 hours, including traditional resident camping.

The following one-time exceptions will only apply to BSA Accredited Council Camps and BSA High Adventure Bases:  

Participants with a Part C completed on or after February 1, 2019.

• Validity of any Part C completed on or after February 1, 2019 is extended until August 31, 2020.

• Update Parts A and B of the AHMR within two weeks of your departure to camp.

Participants with no Part C or one prior to February 1, 2019, including new members.

• Attach a completed alternate exam (sports, school, annual well exam at pediatrician) completed on or after February 1, 2019. This will be accepted as a valid Part C until August 31, 2020. 

• Update Parts A and B of the AHMR within two weeks of your departure to camp.

There will be no other exceptions outside these parameters.

Download the form: https://www.scouting.org/health-and-safety/ahmr

Eagle Scout Celebration Event 

Lake Erie Council‘s Annual Eagle Scout Celebration is an important part of both our history and a testament to the hard work of countless volunteers, family members and others to help our youth achieve the highest rank in Scouting. As many as 800 guests come together to celebrate the achievements of the year’s Eagle Scout class. This year, we have been faced with an uncertain future for events of this magnitude and size. Lake Erie Council has arrived at the decision to transition this year‘s event to a virtual event. We want to make sure everyone who wants to be a part of this event or able to do so safely and without concern for their health. We also know how important it is to recognize our youth for their hard work.

Our Virtual Eagle Scout Celebration for the Class of 2019 will broadcast live on Sunday August 9, 1:00 - 2:30 PM as a Facebook Live, hosted on the Lake Erie Council Facebook Page.

As part of the event, we will honor the 282 members of the class by announcing our scholarship recipients, the best Eagle Scout projects of the year as well as include the Class of 2019 Eagle Scout Roll of Honor. This year, in recognition of every Eagle Scout in the class, we will mail every member the Eagle Scout Neckerchief as well as the Eagle Scout slide. Both tokens of recognition have been a longstanding part of the event, and this year, it will be no different.

For the families, guests and Scoutmasters of our Eagle Scouts who registered for the live event scheduled this past March 15th, we will extend full refunds for your registration. For those guests who can do so, we ask you to consider converting your registration fee to a donation to Lake Erie Council to cover the unrecovered costs in preparation of our live event.

For this year’s registered Career Guides, we will also extend a refund, but ask for those who are able and plan on participating in next year’s event, to allow us to keep the fee and apply it to next year’s event, Scheduled to be held in March 2021. We do hope that you have had the chance to meet or connect with your paired Eagle Scout.

For additional information regarding the event itself, refunds or any other questions, email Jason.Setser@scouting.org.

Wood Badge and NYLT

Wood Badge

Chrissy Edgehouse, Course Director

Registration for Wood Badge is open until June 15, 2020. If you are interested and have not yet registered, please do so by June 15, 2020. There are still a few slots available. 

The course takes place the weekends of July 31-August 2 and August 15-16 at Firelands Scout Reservation. Come learn leadership skills that can help make a difference to the youth you serve. Adventure awaits you in Wood Badge. 

NYLT 

John Zastawnik, Course Director

The date for this year’s National Youth Leadership Training was moved to July 19 – July 24, 2020 at Firelands Scout Reservation.This change of date is to ensure that we conduct the safest course possible for participants and staff. All safety protocols will be followed including screening, masking, cleaning, and social distancing as defined by the State, Council, and BSA. Registration is open until June 30, 2020 and space is filling up – be sure to register soon to secure your place for this premier youth leadership training course!

While Scouting may look a little different in the summer of 2020, together we can ensure that every young person in our Council benefits from the valuable lessons we teach. Our team remains committed to providing the best program possible whether it be via the campsite or, when necessary, a website. Let’s keep focused on delivering the best experiences we can. Our Scouts deserve and are looking forward to it!

Stay tuned as we continue to respond to the evolving landscape.

Cub Scout Summer Camp FAQ

Wood Badge Registration

NYLT Registration

Yours in Scouting,

Marc J. Ryan

Scout Executive / CEO

Stay Tuned for Updates

Dear LEC Family,

This is a quick note to let you know to expect our next announcement this coming Friday. In this announcement we will be addressing where we are with all summer Scouts BSA and Cub Camping programs. We have been gathering data and constantly monitoring information from all applicable channels and using it to inform our plans and decision making. We appreciate your patience as we work to compile information and create the safest and most sustainable path forward.

In the meantime, we are pleased to announce that the Scoutshop will reopen one week from today, Tuesday, May 26th at 10:00 AM. Social distancing protocol and temporary hours will be in place. This too, along with updated unit service center hours and protocols, will be covered in our Friday communication.

Also, there is good news about medical forms. New part C forms will not be required this summer. Part C forms or a sports or school form dated after Feb 1, 2019 along with a new part A and B filled out by a parent or guardian will be all that is required for this summer. This will be reiterated in Friday’s communication as well. 

Again, more this Friday. Until then and as always, stay healthy and safe,

Marc Ryan

Scout Executive
Lake Erie Council, Boy Scouts of America

Scouting at Home Patch Available

Commemorate your participation in the unprecedented Scouting at Home series with this original patch! Proceeds from this patch sale go toward supporting the free programs that Lake Erie Council has provided for our Scouts during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Orders for this patch will be taken until June 1, 2020 and then mailed out after we receive the shipment from the patch vendor.

LEC Operations Update - May 8, 2020

Dear LEC Scouting Family,

Scout camps are a place where kids laugh, learn, explore, and grow in the outdoors. We know how important these experiences are for our Scouts, and we will do everything we can to ensure we deliver a safe and secure summer experience. 

Last week we sent out a survey asking for you to respond about your summer camping plans for your family. We had almost 800 respondents, thank you! Those answers serve as a guide to us as we plan for our summer operations. The majority of respondents were with our Scout BSA program. In fact, we saw around 9 times more responses from our Scouts BSA families as from our Cub Scout families. We have also seen a large response from our troops in reserving spots with early registration for Scouts BSA camp at Beaumont Scout Reservation. 

As we wait to hear from the state and governor, we are currently evaluating the operations of our Cub Scout summer programing. We have increased the program offerings for Cub Scouts by offering four sessions of Cub Scout Adventure Camp where campers can choose to participate in the day, stay overnight, or a combination of the both and three sessions of Webelos Exploration Camp. Despite increasing the number of opportunities to participate in Cub Scout summer programming, we have seen a 44% drop in registrations from this time last year. This comes while we were trending ahead at the beginning of March for a 20% increase in campers.We understand that this trend might be due to packs not meeting during COVID-19 as often and thus promotion and coordination is not a prevalent thought.

We will need to make a decision soon on next steps for summer programming to ensure we can adequately hire, train and prepare camp staff, including access to required-National BSA trainings and in-person certifications and prepare our camp property. To ensure we can run an effective program that is financially sustainable, this is your time to be heard!

We are planning on making further decisions about the future of our Cub Scout camping programs for the summer of 2020 during the week of May 18th. If you are considering participation in our Webelos Exploration Camp or Cub Scout Adventure Camp, we need you to register and place a deposit of at least $25 per Scout before May 18th.

The deposit is risk-free and we will refund your money 100% if camps are unable to proceed or if you have a health and safety concern and don’t wish to send your Scout to camp. As a part of this registration, we will be asking that you provide us information about your flexibility on timing and locations of Cub Scout Camping sessions so we can determine if consolidating sessions is a possibility. 

As we make decisions about Cub Scout summer programs, know that our first priority is the health and safety of you and your Scout. Even if it doesn’t prove to be viable to run Cub Scout summer camp this year, know that we will continue to provide Cub Scout opportunities to your family so that your Scout stays engaged, involved, and on the right track for advancement.

We understand that there are a lot of unknowns right now, so we are hosting a Q&A session via Facebook Live on Monday evening at 6:30 PM. You can submit a question before by emailing Anthony at Anthony.Dworning@scouting.org or during the live session. 

As always, the safety of our Scouts is our first priority. We will adhere to all state and health guidelines in all our programs when we are able to open for operations again.

Yours in Scouting,

Marc J. Ryan
Scout Executive/CEO
Marc.Ryan@Scouting.org

LEC Operations Update - May 1, 2020

Dear LEC Scouting Family,

Our new world continues to evolve. Today I’m reaching out with the latest on what we know and what we’re considering as we seek to make the best and safest decisions for our Scouts and families.  

Before I get into details on openings and closings, etc., I want to first make an announcement as it applies to our most up to date early bird pricing policy. I want to thank all those who have already signed up and have made early bird payments. This is a great help to us as we continue to plan for the summer. We also recognize that many families and units are still struggling, and we want to be responsive and supportive. Therefore, effective immediately, I offer you the “LEC’s Early Bird ‘Til Then” policy. What this means is that until we can make the definitive announcement that we will be able to safely operate our summer camps in accordance with the state, local departments of health, and the National BSA guidelines, we are extending the early bird pricing for all summer camps. Once we do make the formal announcement on operations, the policy will remain in effect for seven total days. This means that the early bird price will be good for seven days after we make the official announcement. On the eighth day, prices will default to the “full price” as previously posted.    

Next, I want to share that we are anticipating communication from the National BSA very soon. We expect this to include the most up to date information on the plan for the four National High Adventures Bases. However, we do not anticipate this communication will address the plan for part C of the BSA Health History (medical form). We do, however, anticipate that we will be able to confirm a policy on that soon.

While Ohio has begun to reopen, we have decided that the Unit Service Center will remain closed a bit longer. Except for the Scout Shop, operations at the Unit Service Center have gone mostly uninterrupted with the installation of the dropbox and rotating hours of staff members processing registration, advancement, and related items. You can expect that each week in May we will slowly begin opening more of the physical operations including the Scout Shop. We will share that schedule as soon as it is finalized. As per previous communications, our staff remain ready to assist our units with whatever they need via virtual meetings, phone calls, texts, and emails. 

Updates on Weekend Camping are as Follows

1. All LEC camps will now remain closed through Memorial Day Weekend except for Camp Stigwandish.  

2. While we are disappointed that the events scheduled for “Stig” were unable to go on as planned, we are opening the property for self-guided visits for Scouts, Scouters, and alumni on the following schedule:

• May 15-17, 2020        9:00 am - 7:00 pm 

• May 22, 2020             3:00 pm - 7:00 pm 

• May 24, 2020             3:00 pm - 7:00 pm

No reservations are required, but check-in will be at the quartermaster. Scouters will be on the property for any questions or in case of an emergency.  PLEASE NOTE - this is NOT for a unit or a gathering. It is appropriate to visit as a family. Social distancing guidelines are still in effect. 

If these dates are not conducive, members of the LEC staff will also arrange to meet anyone who wants to walk through the property.  Simply contact Ranger Bear Roloff or Anthony Dworning as follows: 

Bear's Contact: 440-805-9362

Anthony's Contact: 216-331-4608

Weekend Camping and Training Updates

Cub Spring Fun Day

• May 23rd (Rescheduled dates & locations below)

New Locations/Dates: 

• Beaumont, July 11

• Firelands, July 25

• Beaumont, August 8

Spring Cub Overnighter

• May 23rd-24th (Rescheduled dates & locations below)

New Locations/Dates: 

• Beaumont, July 11-12

• Firelands, July 25-26

• Beaumont, August 8-9

Wild Wild Webelos Spring Extravaganza

• May 16th (Cancelled)

• May 23rd (Cancelled)

Shooting Sports Training/Archery Training (All training postponed until more information is available)

• Archery Training (Postponed)

• Shotgun Training (Postponed)

• Rifle Training (Postponed)

• Pistol Training (Postponed)

Trailblazer

• BSR: May 9th (Postponed to later in Summer)

• FSR: May 16th (Postponed to later in Summer)

Search & Rescue Weekend Camporee   

• May 15-17th (Cancelled)            

Cub Scout Adventure Loop Night          

• May 15th (Moved to Virtual Den Meetings)         

Mobile Climbing Wall Training

• May 19th (Cancelled)

• May 21st (Cancelled)                  

COPE/Climbing Committee Meeting      

• May 25th (Moved to Zoom Virtual Meeting on May 18th)

Virtual Roundtables 

• May 22nd for Cub Leaders

• May 23rd for Scouts BSA and Venture Crew Leaders

Summer Operations Update

We continue to move forward with planning to safely operate summer programming at both Firelands and Beaumont Scout Reservations. We are looking at multiple models of operation and continue to evaluate all aspects of our properties to ensure that we can address safety and health concerns. While we are still unable to make announcements on all aspects of the calendar and properties, below is an update on our adventure camp schedule.

Adventure Camps

Due to the transient nature of campers attending a day camp, and to give parents and packs the best chance for reliable attendance dates for scheduling, we are moving Adventure Camp to the end of the summer camping season rather than the beginning. This applies to both Firelands and Beaumont Adventure Camp.

Old Dates:

• Session #1: June 15-20

• Session #2: June 22-27

New Dates:

• Session #1: July 20-25

• Session #2: July 27 - August 1

*This does not currently affect other summer operations.

Great Scout Luncheon

The Great Scout Luncheon, the council's premier fundraising event where the community comes together to support, share and celebrate Scouting, has been postponed to November 5, 2020 from the old date of May 28th. 

As we continue to navigate this uncertain time together, I anticipate having more information as the situation evolves including another update next week. Please continue to find updates and Scouting at Home opportunities on our website and Facebook page. 

Yours in Scouting,

Marc Ryan

Scout Executive/CEO
Lake Erie Council

LEC Operations Update

Dear LEC Scouting Family,

Two weeks have passed since our last formal communication when I promised to notify you of the latest outlook and plans for our summer operations today (4/17). In addition to some important summer updates, I will also share information on the current status of weekend and business operations at our properties including the unit service center.

Let’s begin with summer camp: 

As of today, we remain hopeful and we continue to prepare to safely open and operate our camps this summer. While there is still potential that this could change, we are encouraged by the direction the State of Ohio and the County Departments of Health are taking. We will follow their lead and realize that much still needs to happen for places like camp to be in the position to open and operate with heightened safety measures.

That said, allow me to begin to share a glimpse on some of the additional elements of what “safely operating” our camps in this new environment will entail. While not comprehensive and an ongoing process, you can expect some significant updates to many of the following:

• Food Service – We will be eliminating all self-service options for and during meals (including beverages and salad bars) and all serving will be done by trained staff.

• Water Bottles – Participants will be required to bring a water bottle to camp. Water filling stations will be limited but strategic and will be hands free. 

• Check-in Screening – Upon arrival at our camps, staff and participants will be screened and their temperature will be taken. Those who fail the screening will be refused entry.

• Sickness at Camp – Participants and tent mates presenting with symptoms of COVID-19 will be sent home.

• Visitors - All visitors MUST check-in upon arrival and will receive screening before being allowed into camp. Those who fail the screening will be refused entry.

• Family Night/Activities - Unfortunately, Family Night/Activities at both camps will NOT be held this summer.

• Hand-washing – Participants will be directed to wash their hands often. Additional hand washing and sanitizing stations will be available.

• Shower Houses and Restrooms – Shower houses and restrooms will be cleaned 3 times a day.

• Lodging Cleaning – Camp provided lodging, such as tents and cabins, will be disinfected before new participants arrive.

• Protective Gear – We will be reviewing best methods for use of gloves, masks, etc., while on our properties.

• Camp Equipment – We will properly sanitize all community and reusable program equipment after each use.

As stated above, these are all under review as part of the comprehensive evaluation now underway of our standards and policies. As we move forward, you can expect a comprehensive list complete with instructions.

Also, related to summer camping is the concern over required health forms. I want you to know that we are very aware of the situation and working closely with the national BSA to determine approved protocol for this summer. We understand that it will be somewhere between difficult and impossible to get a new physical completed between now and summer camp. We believe that a temporary policy will be put into place to mitigate this year’s unique set of circumstances. We expect to be able to communicate the updated information in the early part of May. 

As it applies to the summer calendar, there are two primary things that you should know.

First, NYLT, scheduled to be conducted at Firelands from June 7-12 will be MOVED to July 19-24, 2020. 

Second, while both Firelands and Beaumont were scheduled to open in early June, the likelihood that they might not open until later in June or as late as the beginning of July is relatively high. We will make that decision as we carefully and thoughtfully follow Gov. DeWine’s orders and work with our local county health departments. 

In all cases with our summer operations, please be reminded of the following three governing thoughts:

• First, our “full and hassle-free refund policy” is there to support your family if you decide you are not comfortable or unable to participate in camp this summer. All monies will be returned through the vehicle they came in (i.e. your unit, your family) and NOT held by the council.

• Second, as a reminder, we have extended our early bird period until May 1, 2020. We are encouraging units and families to continue signing up and submitting deposits where and as possible.

• Third, while our campership submission timeframe has now concluded, we will support any family who has been directly affected by COVID-19 and will honor early bird fees. If you have not done so yet, please reach out to our camp directors ASAP (Phil Williams; Jarrod Blundy; Brittany Dunne). 

Next, let’s discuss weekend operations. As of today, Lake Erie Council properties are closed through May 7, 2020. Based on criteria contained in Phase I of the State of Ohio’s plan to reopen the state, we find it necessary to extend that period, on a rolling basis, through May 14 to begin with. Here is a list of scheduled activities set to take place during that time and their disposition moving forward.

• May 1 – Cub Scout Adventure Loop Nights and Disabilities Awareness – Moved to Zoom Virtual Meeting

• May 1-3 – Wilderness Engineers Weekend at BSR – Postponed until June 6, 2020

• May 2 – Merit Badge Workshop at FSR – Postponed until July 25, 2020 at FSR

• May 2 – Merit Badge University 4 – Postponed until July 25, 2020 at FSR

• May 2 – Cub Spring Fun Day – Postponed until May 23 at BSR

• May 2-3 – Spring Cub Overnighter at FSR – Postponed until May 23-24 at BSR

• May 4 – Scouts BSA Unit Tools Team Meeting – Moved to Zoom Virtual Meeting

• May 5 – Key 8 Meeting (Division Leadership Team) – Moved to Zoom Virtual Meeting

• May 8-10 – Shooting Sports NRA Instructor Training – Postponed

• May 8-10 – Barkmont at BSR – Postponed

• May 8-10 – Level 2 Climbing Instructor Training – Postponed

• May 8-10 – The Spirit Lives On – Final Weekend – Postponed: More Information Soon 

• May 9 – Beaver Day at FSR – Postponed to June 6, 2020

• May 9 – Trailblazer at BSR – Postponed

• May 9 – Pinewood Derby Championship – Postponed

• May 11 – Stewards of Firelands – Postponed

• May 12 – Mobile Climbing Wall Training – Cancelled

• May 14 – Mobile Climbing Wall Training – Cancelled 

Every two weeks, we will update you on the status of our properties. The next update will come two weeks from today, May 1st, and will directly address the period of May 15- May 28.

Finally, operations at the Unit Service Center remain limited until April 30/May 1, 2020. Included in our communication of May 1 will be the plans relating to the Unit Service Center starting on May 4, 2020. Be reminded that we continue to process advancement, including Eagle workbooks, and membership. The drop box on the east side of the building is there for you to deliver important material 24 hours a day. In addition, our entire staff, who remain engaged and focused on serving our units, are available to drop off or pick up items as needed. Simply reach out to your unit serving executive to make necessary arrangements.

I want you to know how much I appreciate your partnership and support as we continue to work through these unchartered waters. I hope your family has been able to participate in many of the terrific virtual programs and offerings being conducted every day in your Lake Erie Council (Schedule at www.lecbsa.org/at-home) (Daily Facebook Live events @LakeErieBSA). I hope that many of you plan to participate in the Scouts Own Pancake Power Hour tomorrow morning (4/18) and the Camporall next Saturday (4/25) on our Facebook page. My family plans to be there for both! Oh, by the way, tune in tomorrow for some special guests as well as a major announcement that will change the future of Scouts Own and will help your units achieve their goals to fund their adventures! I am so excited about this! Don’t miss it!

If I don’t “see you” tomorrow, be safe and stay healthy. I miss you and continue to pray for you and our entire Scouting family!

Yours in Scouting,

Marc J. Ryan
Scout Executive
Lake Erie Council, Boy Scouts of America

Marc.Ryan@scouting.org
216-458-8910

Sappy Coloring Contest

Scouts! Join us in a Sappy coloring contest this Saturday during the Pancake Power Hour! A winner will be announced during the breakfast! Post your Scout's Masterpiece to our Facebook page by Friday at 9pm!

Download your Sappy Coloring sheet here!

LEC Summer Operations Update

Dear LEC Scouting Family,

Covid-19 has and continues to impact every part of our society. While my prayers remain for the health and safety of the members of our Scouting family as well as all those in harm’s way, there are lots of moving pieces in the Scouting world that require attention and decision making based on what we currently know in an ever evolving landscape of information.

Although still more than two months away, one of the largest questions surrounds the operation of our summer programs at Beaumont and Firelands Scout Reservations. Here is where we find ourselves at the crossroads between providing a beacon of hope and being pragmatic.

We know that many of our families are struggling to adjust to the new norms of things like home schooling while still working or perhaps living through challenges related to changes in their work situation. We also know that our Scouts look forward to their summer adventures in the outdoors as I certainly did as a youth. We want to provide that beacon of hope through today’s dense fog but also want to be responsible and set realistic expectations. So, as of today, April 3, 2020, here is where we are on our decision-making process for summer operations:

1. First, I hope you know that I/ our council would never do anything to jeopardize the safety of our Scouts, families or the safety of our first responders and front-line medical personnel. 

2. Second, I am blessed to be surrounded with great colleagues both in our council and throughout the state of Ohio and West Virginia. I have been meeting with my fellow Scout Executives. We are monitoring this ever-changing situation daily and are working together to provide consistent leadership and make decisions on how Scouting should responsibly move forward.

3. Third, as of today, we are preparing and are hopeful that we will be able to safely operate our camps this summer. Based on information and directives from the state or other entities, that might change tomorrow or even later today. If it does, we will communicate quickly and thoroughly. Should no further directives come over the course of the next two weeks, you can expect our next formal update and communication on Friday, April 17, 2020.

Related, even though we continue to prepare for camp, we realize that there is a likelihood that camp might not go on as planned.

That said, we are encouraging units and families to continue signing up and submitting deposits where and as possible. Some of you might ask “why?” Two reasons:

1. First: For planning purposes; budgeting, staffing, ordering (eventually), etc., it is important that we have an understanding and base-line model for what to anticipate this summer. 

2. Second: While there is a likelihood that camp might not go on exactly as planned, it would certainly be far more difficult to shut down the works today (2.5 months out) and then try and start the engine back up if we are able to run (even if it is in a different model than currently planned). 

With our units and families in mind:

• We have extended the Scouts BSA early bird discount period from April 24 to May 1, 2020. 

• We have extended the campership application process from April 1 to April 15, 2020. 

• We have adopted a “full and hassle-free refund policy.” If camp should not be able to run as planned or if a family decides to not participate all monies will be returned through the vehicle they came in (i.e. your unit, your family) and NOT held by the council.

Regardless of the outcome, your Lake Erie Council is committed to providing exceptional experiences to our Scouts. If we are unable to provide those in person at our world-class camps, then we will pivot and find new and innovative ways to offer programs (like our Camporall on April 25 th , for example). However, we will cross that bridge when we come to it. Speaking of innovative efforts, if you and your Scouts have yet to take advantage of all that the LEC is currently offering, I invite and encourage you to visit www.lecbsa.org/at-home for advancement, entertainment, and for activities around the council. Follow us on Facebook to receive the most recent communications on new programs. 

As I look out the window of my “new office” at home, the grass is greener than it was a few weeks ago, and the trees and flowers are beginning to bloom. Summer is indeed on its way! Soon, the days will grow even warmer and longer and our camps will be physically ready to give young people experiences of a lifetime; challenging them to learn, grow and achieve through our 110-year-old, proven program of character, leadership and good citizenship. 

While this summer may not look like all the summers that have come before or any of the summers that will come after, together, we can make sure that every Scout can and will benefit from what we do and how we do it!

I appreciate all that you have and continue to do as a partner in delivering the promises of Scouting to our families. 

Yours in Scouting,

Marc J. Ryan
Scout Executive
Lake Erie Council, Boy Scouts of America

Marc.Ryan@scouting.org
216-458-8910