August 28, 2025

News You Can Use

Safety Moment

The Importance of Utilizing Scouting America’s Meeting Place Inspection Checklist

Safety is at the heart of Scouting, and one of the simplest ways to keep our programs secure is by using the Meeting Place Inspection Checklist. This tool provides a structured way to evaluate potential risks and hazards at meeting locations, reinforcing Scouting America’s commitment to safe, responsible practices for all participants.

More Than Compliance

While the checklist supports units in meeting Scouting America Guidelines and local regulations, its true value lies in building a culture of safety. Regular use helps leaders and Scouts alike:

Spot hazards early – such as poor lighting, uneven floors, or improperly stored materials, and correct them before accidents happen.
Raise awareness – encouraging youth and adults to think critically about safety in their environment.
Model responsibility – showing Scouts that safety isn’t just a rule—it’s part of good leadership.

What the Checklist Covers

The checklist provides a simple, structured walk-through of your meeting space, focusing on areas such as:

Exit routes & fire safety – clearly marked exits, alarms, extinguishers.
Room conditions – safe flooring, proper lighting, heating, and ventilation.
Sanitation & hygiene – clean restrooms and handwashing stations.
Emergency preparedness – availability of first-aid kits and flashlights.

Making It a Habit

To get the most benefit, weave the checklist into your regular routine:

Assign a dedicated leader or committee to conduct inspections.
Engage youth in the process to build their awareness and responsibility.
Do a quick check before meetings for immediate concerns, and a deeper inspection periodically.
Share results and corrective actions with your unit, parents, and council staff.

A Commitment to Safety

By consistently using the Meeting Place Inspection Checklist, leaders demonstrate their commitment to creating a safe and welcoming environment. This proactive approach not only prevents accidents but also reinforces Scouting’s core values—building stronger, more responsible units and communities.

Good News

Old North State Council Partners with the Greensboro Gargoyles

GREENSBORO, NC – The Old North State Council (ONSC) of Scouting America is teaming up with the Greensboro Gargoyles, the city’s new professional minor league ice hockey team, to bring Scouts and families fresh opportunities for fun, learning, and community service.

The Gargoyles, who launch their inaugural season in October 2025 at First Horizon Coliseum, are committed to engaging with the community on and off the ice. That shared value makes them a natural partner for Scouting America.

“This collaboration provides our Scouts with a fantastic opportunity to see professional sports up close and to learn about teamwork, dedication, and sportsmanship directly from the Gargoyles organization,” said Clif Morris, Scout Executive and CEO of the Old North State Council. “It’s a chance for our youth to build lasting memories and develop skills that will serve them well in all aspects of their lives.”

Partnership Highlights

Scout Night at the Gargoyles – Special game nights with discounted tickets and exclusive opportunities for Scouts and their families.
Promoting Shared Values – Scouts will serve as color guard at games, while attendees can learn about and even join Scouting.
Community Service Projects – Joint service and environmental stewardship initiatives throughout the region.
Educational Opportunities – Future programs connecting Scouts with sports, fitness, and sports management experiences.

This partnership is a win-win: Scouts gain unique experiences and the Gargoyles deepen their connection to the community. Together, both organizations are ready to inspire youth and strengthen the fabric of the Piedmont Triad.

Save the Date: Scout Night at the Greensboro Gargoyles

Sunday, March 1, 2026 | 3:00 PM

Details coming soon!

Announcements

🐺 Howl-o-ree Leaders Meeting

Sunday, Sept 7 | 8:00 PM | Via Zoom
Pre-register Here →

🏕 AOL: Trailhead Leaders Meeting

Sunday, Sept 7, 2025 | 9:00 PM | Via Zoom
Pre-register Here →

🎣 Coastal Saltwater Fishing Leader Training

Registration Deadline: Monday, Sept 15 at 11:59 PM
Register Here →

🎯 NRA Basic Pistol Training

Deadline Extended: Tuesday, Sept 16 at 11:59 PM
Register Here →

❄️ Winter Camp Leaders Meeting

Sunday, Sept 28 | 8:00 PM | Via Zoom
Pre-register Here →

Features

Why Arrow of Light Scouts Should Visit a Troop Early

Visiting a Scouts BSA troop in the early fall is both recommended and now a requirement for the Bobcat Adventure.

Early visits help AOL Scouts:

✅ Meet different troops and find the best fit

✅ Build relationships with youth and adult leaders

✅ Understand the differences between Cub Scouts and Scouts BSA

✅ Ease the transition and make the crossover ceremony more meaningful

Encourage AOL dens and families to schedule troop visits this fall—it’s one of the most important steps toward a smooth Scouting journey.

Cub Scout Fishing Derby

Calling all Scouts! Get ready to cast your lines and create some lasting memories at the Old North State Council’s annual Fishing Derby on Saturday, September 13th, 2025, from 8:00 AM to 12:00 PM.

This fantastic event, open to all new, existing, and future Cub Scouts and their families, offers a wonderful opportunity to experience the joys of fishing and connect with the great outdoors.

Six locations to choose from

The derby will be held at six convenient locations across the council, so you can choose the one that works best for your family:

Registration details

Registration for the derby closes on Tuesday, September 9th, at 11:59 PM. Don’t miss out on this incredible opportunity to get “Hooked on Scouting!”

https://scoutingevent.com/070-fishingderby2025

Get ready for a day of angling adventure and make some unforgettable memories! Register today!

Register for the Fishing Derby

Fall Family Encampment: Howl-o-ree!

Join us at Cherokee Scout Reservation for a weekend full of Cub Scout adventure, family bonding, and fall fun. Activities include BBs and archery, pumpkin decorating, a Monster Mash dance, trunk-or-treat, and classic campfire fun. Meals are included!

Option 1: Oct 10–12, 2025 (Deadline: Oct 7)
Option 2: Oct 17–19, 2025 (Deadline: Oct 14)

Register Here →
Registration is through your Pack Leader.

Your Next Adventure: AOL Trailhead

The AOL Trailhead helps Arrow of Light Scouts and parents prepare for Scouts BSA. Scouts will try new activities—like climbing, blacksmithing, and catapults—while parents attend a meeting on supporting the transition.

📅 Nov 15, 2025
📍 Cherokee Scout Reservation
Deadline: Nov 11 at 11:59 PM
Register Here →

NYLT: National Youth Leadership Training

NYLT is Scouting’s premier youth leadership program—building confidence, communication, and teamwork through a hands-on patrol experience.

Session 1: Dec 28–30, 2025
Session 2: Jan 17–19, 2026
Early Bird Fee: $300 (by Oct 1)
Standard Fee: $350 (after Oct 2)
Final Payment Due: Dec 19

Register Here →

BALOO Training – Required for AOL Den Camping

Any Cub Scout overnight requires a BALOO-trained leader. This hands-on course equips leaders with the skills to run safe, fun, and memorable campouts. Perfect for Arrow of Light dens preparing for their first independent camping experiences.

📅 Sept 19–20, 2025
Deadline: Sept 16 at 11:59 PM
Register Here →

Scout Shop Uniform Promotion

WIN A CUB ADVENTURE WEEKEND

When you buy full uniform (hat, neckerchief, slide, shirt, belt, pants & socks), your name will be put into a weekly drawing from August 2-Sept. 30. If your name is chosen you will WIN a Cub Scout Howl-o-ree Weekend at Cherokee Scout Reservation on (Oct. 10 – 12 or Oct. 17 – 18) for your Cub Scout, your choice of either of the weekends!!!

Old North State Scout Shop

Get Store Hours and More Info Here👈