The Digital Duffle Bag
A twice monthly digital magazine for Scouting families.
REGISTER NOW FOR SUMMER CAMP
Scouting is more than an activity. It's an investment into your child. Camp season is coming up. See how investing in a week or more of camp, in an environment created just for them, children learn real life skills, develop self-esteem, and gain a sense of independence and community.

One of the greatest gifts you can give a child is a sense of success and achievement. Camp teaches kids how to be active participants, ask questions, ask for help, and try new things.

Give the gift of camp to your child and register today.
NYLT
Through this week-long outdoor training, Scouts grow and improve their leadership skills while following the guidelines of the Scout Oath and Scout Law. Interconnecting concepts and work processes are introduced early, built upon, and aided by the use of memory aids, which allows participants to understand and employ the leadership skills much faster.

And don't forget about Pack & Paddle! This physically demanding course is conducted in the S bar F Scout Ranch backcountry and on Nims Lake during NYLT courses. Attending Scouts and Venturers develop leadership skills, practice low-impact camping, hiking, canoeing, and learn the proper use of a compass for navigation. All participants must stow food, crew gear, shelter, personal items and any other essential equipment in their packs.

UNIVERSITY OF SCOUTING IS JAN. 18
Southern Illinois University Edwardsville
Saturday, January 18
Join us for this one-day training event where you'll learn valuable tips, tricks and resources to help you deliver a better Scouting program to youth. Plus, network with others involved in the Scouting program to share best practices and ideas! We even offer merit badge skill centers for Scouts BSA. Registration closes Tuesday, Jan. 14 however, walk-ins are welcome.

STEM CAMP
Cub Scouts get their own STEM week at Camp NOVA , July 22-25 at Cub World! Earn two Novas: Science Everywhere! and Fearful Symmetry and participate in fun, outdoor STEM learning. 

Scouts BSA can attend several STEM-focused summer camps. STEM Week, July 21-27, is an extraordinary experience where Scouts attend one merit badge (close to 40 to choose from!) or one NOVA class each day. Afternoon and evenings include other fun STEM programs and exhibits to experience.

STEM on CAMPus is a unique “camp” experience where Scouts BSA get a taste of college life! Camp is held at local universities where Scouts sleep in dorms, eat in the dining halls, and have fun each evening with a variety of activities including campus rec center nights! Scouts have the opportunity to earn up to six merit badges or NOVAs at each camp.

STEM UNIVERSITY
February 22
SIU Carbondale
The final STEM University of the program year will be held next month at Southern Illinois University Carbondale! Don't miss this exciting day of STEM-focused advancements and activities.

Wood Badge Training Course
May 15-17 & May 30-31
Beaumont Scout Reservation
Wood Badge is a unique training course that gives adult leaders a guided tour through the entire Scouting program. In the end, this course will not only help graduates lead more successful units, but they’ll learn tools that can be applied in life, family and work. Through two weekends, participants experience Scouting fundamentals by living them resulting in a more meaningful course. The program gives participants a greater understanding of Scouting aims and methods and gives meaning to their time spent in Scouting.

Want to learn more about Wood Badge? Attend an informational dinner on Monday, Feb. 24 at Beaumont Scout Reservation.
HORSEMANSHIP SKILL CENTER
March 12, 14, 21 & 28
Nagel Base, Beaumont Scout Reservation
The Horsemanship Merit Badge Center provides knowledge of how to care for, groom, and ride a horse. Scouts gain an understanding of the instincts and behaviors of horses. Scouts must be at least 11 years old to attend, but recommended age is 14 or older.

SCOUT SABBATH & SCOUT SUNDAY
Each year, Scouts are recognized for their achievements towards religious awards. The Catholic Committee on Scouting will celebrate Scout Sunday on Feb. 2 at the Cathedral Basilica of Saint Louis. Scout receiving an award should arrive no later than 2 p.m. to check in at Boland Hall.

Scout Sabbath will be held Friday, February 7 at Congregation Shaare Emeth. The service begins at 6 p.m.

NOMINATE AN OUTSTANDING SCOUTER
The Silver Beaver Award is the highest recognition a Boy Scout council can bestow on an adult volunteer leader. The award is presented to those volunteers who have provided noteworthy service that impacts the lives of youth and who have made outstanding contributions to the Scouting program.

Deadline to nominate a volunteer for the 2019 Silver Beaver class is January 31.

SCOUT SAFETY MOMENT: WINTER ACTIVITY
There is magic to camping in winter. It is one of the most challenging outdoor adventures. However, potentially extreme weather conditions, cold temperatures, and unique hazards associated with outdoor winter activities require careful planning to ensure safety.

Greater St. Louis Area Council | 314-361-0600 | stlbsa.org
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