COUNCIL NEWS

A Viking Bonfire Retirement Roast Honors Magne G. Gundersen

On Friday, August 21, family, friends, colleagues, staff, former Scouters, and volunteers gathered for a special evening of celebration and reflection as they honored Washington Crossing Council Scout Executive Magne G. Gundersen at a Viking Bonfire retirement roast.

The event brought together members of the Scouting community and many others whose lives and careers have been touched by Magne during his 40 years of service. While the evening carried the spirit of a traditional roast—with plenty of laughter and fond memories—it was clear throughout the celebration that the gathering was, above all, a heartfelt tribute to a man who has made a lasting impact on Scouting and the community.

Throughout the evening, colleagues and friends shared stories and memories of their experiences with Magne. Their speeches ranged from humorous recollections to sincere expressions of gratitude, highlighting his leadership, dedication, friendship, and commitment to the values of Scouting.

For many in attendance, Magne was more than a Scout Executive. He was a mentor, colleague, advocate, and trusted friend. His presence at Washington Crossing Council and throughout the community has helped strengthen relationships among Scouting families, volunteers, civic leaders, and community organizations.

One of the evening's memorable moments came when Congressman Brian Fitzpatrick presented Magne with a certificate recognizing his contributions. The congressman stated:

“Magne has been an extraordinary ambassador for Scouting and a tremendous presence in our community, and he will be deeply missed.”

The words captured the sentiment shared by many throughout the evening. Magne's influence has extended well beyond the day-to-day responsibilities of his position. Through his leadership and personal commitment, he has represented the ideals of Scouting and worked to build a stronger future for the young people and families served by the organization.

Retirement marks the beginning of a new chapter for Magne, but the legacy he leaves behind will continue through the countless Scouts, volunteers, families, and colleagues he has influenced.

The evening ended with a simple but powerful message from those gathered: Magne may be retiring from his role as Scout Executive, but he will not soon be forgotten.

Thank you, Magne, for your service, your leadership, and your friendship—and best wishes for a wonderful retirement.

Technology updates coming to Council websites and event registration platforms.

Goodbye Tentaroo; Hello to CouncilWare

For over nine years, Tentaroo has provided the software tools for event registration and management at the Washington Crossing Council. We were informed this past March that Tentaroo will close its doors on October 31. The council’s technology committee and staff evaluated the few options available to replace the Tentaroo platform and chose CouncilWare for website, calendar and event registration management. A different platform, Bonterra's EveryAction, will provide technology to support online giving and fundraising event registration.  

What does this mean? We will begin moving event registration for events with start dates after October 1 onto the new CouncilWare platform. While registering for an event doesn’t require an account, creating one with your profile information will make it simpler. You can save time having to re-enter your profile every time you register for an event. In addition, you can create "saved registrants” for members of your family and pull their information into a registration. To create an account, navigate to https://mycouncil.wccscouting.org. Click “Create Login” and enter your first and last name, your email address and password. Once the account is created, you can click on the “Account” button in the top blue bar to update your profile and add “Registrants”. 

In early October the council’s websites and calendars will move to a new platform as well. The calendars will link directly back to the registration pages to make it easy to register for an event. If you have any questions with the new registration system, reach out to events@wccscounting.org for support. 

SILVER BEAVER AWARD

Thank a Volunteer

Don't miss your opportunity to nominate a worthy volunteer for this special recognition.

The Silver Beaver is Scouting's award for distinguished service. Recipients of this award must be registered Scouters who have made an impact on the lives of youth through service given at the council level. All Scouters are encouraged to think of someone deserving of this honor.

Completed nominations are due to the council office by September 11. They may be submitted by email to Anna Marie Pepper or submitted to Washington Crossing Council, 1 Scout Way, Doylestown, PA 18901, Attention: Silver Beaver.

New volunteer opportunities at OSR. Reach out to Ranger Jim Donelson for more information.

Membership Mixer

At the September Membership Mixer, we will continue this conversation by focusing on the role of Patrol Leaders in recruiting. Recruitment is not just an adult responsibility. When youth leaders are involved in planning activities, welcoming visitors, sharing what makes Scouting fun, and helping new families feel connected, recruiting becomes more authentic and more effective. Join us as we discuss how to connect the PLC, youth leadership, and unit recruiting efforts into one stronger membership plan.

This mixer is for Scouts BSA and Cub Scout leadership as well as youth leaders.

Date: September 29

Time: 7:30

Location: Mercer Community College, West Windsor, NJ

Don't Forget Your Fall Recruitment Materials!

As you finalize your fall school recruitment dates, don't forget to submit your Materials Request Form to the council office. This helps us ensure your unit has everything needed for a successful recruiting event.

Submit your request here: https://bit.ly/2026RecruitmentMaterials

A complete list of available recruitment materials will be included in the next Membership Blast, so keep an eye out!

Range & Target Activities

Throughout the year, Council Shooting Range & Target Committee offers several different activities for Cub Scouts. For all activities, an adult is required to be present to satisfy the 1-to-1 adult participant ratio.

Archery Adventure

October 4

Slingshot Adventure

November 1

BB Gun Adventure

December 20

Reserve your 2027 spot at Ockanickon now and save!

COPE & Climbing Weekends

The weekend COPE program offers the opportunity for your Troop, Crew, Ship or Post to experience a team building program like no other. Low COPE consists of warm-up activities and initiative games in the field before moving on to the Low COPE course. This course includes 12 elements low to the ground, ranging from the Archimedes Bridge to the 12-foot Wall. Adults are invited to participate.

High COPE returns to OSR September 2026!!

Registration opens 6 months in advance. Click link below for dates and registration.

Venturing Camporee

Shoots, Ladders and Paddles (SLP) III, is an event for Venturing Crews, Ships and Explorer Posts. Range and target activities, the climbing tower and the lake will be available. Participants can bring their own tents or use the adirondacks in a campsite. You will be sharing a campsite with other units. A communal Saturday dinner will be provided and we ask each unit to bring a dessert to share. Bring a game to play after dinner. This a great opportunity for recruitment.

TRAINING OPPORTUNITIES

Upcoming training courses

Click links to register:

• BALOO - October 10-11
• IOLS - October 10-11
• NRA - October 16
• ILST - October 24
• NYLT - November 6-8 & November 20-22
• University of Scouting - February 27, 2027

COUNCIL EVENTS

Dine to Donate for Scouting!

Click image to enlarge

Take the night off of cooking and support Scouting in the process!

Visit Bacco Centro from 4-8 pm on September 15 and present the attached flyer or mention that you're there to support Scouting, and a portion of your check will be donated to Washington Crossing Council.

Whether you're grabbing a quick bite for yourself before a Scout meeting or bringing the whole family, this is a great way to support Scouting and grab some delicious food!

Valid for dine in or takeout orders placed directly with the restaurant.

Orders placed through third party platforms like GrubHub, DoorDash, or Uber Eats do not qualify.

Come out and visit our booth at the Peace Fair!

The BCATO Service Award & Internship Application

Snipes Farm

Are you ready for an unforgettable outdoor experience? Snipes Farm invites your troop to step away from the screens and jump into a day packed with hands-on adventure, skill-building, and outdoor fun!

Whether you’re looking to fulfill badge requirements or simply bond as a troop, Snipes Farm is the ultimate backdrop for your next outing. Space fills up quickly, so reach out today to reserve your spot!

We are located at 890 W. Bridge Street in Morrisville, PA, just across the Delaware River from Trenton, NJ.

PSATS Youth Awards - click images to enlarge

Summer Hours Memorial Day through Labor Day:

• Monday - Closed
• Tuesday - Thursday 10am to 4pm
• Friday - 10am to 3pm

Regular Hours:

• Monday - Thursday 10am to 6pm
• Friday 10am to 3pm

Upcoming Special Closures:

• September 7 in observance of Labor Day

*Select Scout Shop Saturday: 10am to 1pm

• September 26

*Select Saturdays subject to change; please call before making the trip!

Supporting Washington Crossing Council helps our Scouts thrive!

Your support strengthens the programs, camps, training, and resources that give our Scouts the best possible experience—building confidence, leadership, and lifelong skills. When families support the Council, we ensure every Scout has the opportunity to grow, explore, and succeed.