February 2026

A Message from our District Chair

Dear Scouters of the Hunterdon Arrowhead District,

As we move through February, we celebrate a very special milestone—the anniversary of Scouting in America. Since 1910, Scouting has helped shape generations of young people into leaders of character, guided by the values of the Scout Oath and Scout Law. Here in the Hunterdon Arrowhead District, we see those values lived out every day—in our meetings, on our campouts, and most importantly, in the service our Scouts provide to others.

This past month was a powerful example of Scouting at its best.

First, I want to extend my sincere thanks to Chris Boyce, Troop 65, the Pahaquarra Chapter of the Order of the Arrow, all the units who ran stations and all of the units that participated in the 2026 Klondike Derby. Despite harsh winter conditions, our Scouts demonstrated resilience, teamwork, and good spirit throughout the event. Cold weather, snow, and challenging stations only strengthened the experience, reminding us that some of the most meaningful lessons in Scouting come when conditions are less than perfect. Your preparation, leadership, and determination made the Klondike a true success.

I would also like to thank Cindy Barcholtz, Chris Boyce, Doug Walker, all of our local stores, neighbors who gave and all of the Scouts and units who participated in this year’s Scouting for Food drive. Your incredible community service made a real difference for families across our region. This annual effort exemplifies the heart of Scouting—helping others at all times. The food collected will support our local pantries and food networks, ensuring that neighbors in times of need have the resources they require. It is a powerful reminder that even small acts of service, when multiplied by many Scouts, can have a tremendous impact.

February also brings Scout Sunday and other faith-based observances across our communities. I want to thank all of the Scouts and units who participated in services this month, proudly wearing their uniforms and living out the point of the Scout Law that reminds us: A Scout is Reverent.

Being reverent is not only about attending services, but also about showing respect for the beliefs of others, living with gratitude, and recognizing that our lives have purpose beyond ourselves. I am reminded of a simple Scouting story: A young Scout once asked his Scoutmaster what it meant to be reverent. The Scoutmaster handed him a small seed and said, “Plant this, water it, and come back in a few weeks.” When the Scout returned, the seed had grown into a small sprout. The Scoutmaster said, “You didn’t make it grow—you cared for it, respected it, and gave it what it needed. Being reverent is the same. We respect the world around us, the people in it, and the gifts we’ve been given.”

That lesson stayed with the Scout for years, and it is one that reflects how we should live each day—grateful, respectful, and mindful of others.

As we celebrate the anniversary of Scouting, let us remember that the true strength of our program lies not in events alone, but in the character, we build and the service we provide. Every campout, food drive, service project, and meeting helps shape young people into the leaders our communities need.

Thank you to all of our volunteers, leaders, parents, and Scouts for your continued dedication. The impact you make is real, lasting, and deeply appreciated.

Yours in Scouting,

Christopher J. Phelan

District Chair

Hunterdon Arrowhead District

Washington Crossing Council, Scouting America

District Commissioner

UNIT ROSTER CHECKS

Units should regularly compare their my.scouting.org roster with the youth and adults attending meetings and events. Be sure to also review Youth Protection Training status for all adults.

A youth is considered registered when their membership is current. An adult is considered registered only when both their membership and Youth Protection Training are current.

Allowing unregistered individuals to participate creates liability for the individual, the unit leadership, and the charter organization. This risk is entirely avoidable with routine roster checks and a willingness to say “no” when registration is not current.

If you need help generating a usable roster from my.scouting.org, or if someone is missing from your roster, please contact District Executive Alice Hillary, your Unit Commissioner, or District Commissioner Janell Bunger-Spiecha for assistance.

Yours in Scouting,

Janell Bunger-Spiecha

District Commissioner

Hunterdon Arrowhead District

District Executive

Hunterdon Arrowhead District Scouters, Scouts, and Families,

Scouting has a way of sneaking impact into everyday life—almost like it’s part adventure, part gentle nudge toward becoming a better human. For young people, the program offers a place to explore the outdoors, pick up useful skills, and discover that tying knots is surprisingly satisfying. But more importantly, Scouting encourages youth to see themselves as contributors to something bigger. Whether they’re learning leadership within their troop or simply figuring out how to work as a team to set up a tent that absolutely refuses to cooperate, they grow in confidence and character without even realizing it.

A big part of that growth comes from the leaders who choose to step into the role of mentor, cheerleader, guide, and occasional emergency granola‑bar provider. Their commitment isn’t just meaningful—it’s transformational. These volunteers show up week after week, often after long workdays, ready to teach skills, encourage progress, and make sure every Scout feels seen and included. They model what patient, thoughtful leadership looks like, and youth pick up more from that example than any handbook could ever list. Their dedication is the quiet engine that keeps Scouting moving forward, and the impact they have on young people lasts far longer than any camp out.

That positive energy often spills right into the community, especially during events like Scout Sunday, when Scouts step into the spotlight for a moment—not to show off, but to say “thank you.” It’s a tradition that bridges faith communities and Scouting, reminding everyone that service and gratitude go hand-in-hand. Seeing a troop in uniform greet parishioners or assist with a service is a simple, heartwarming example of how Scouting builds connections. These aren’t just badges on a sash; they’re real experiences that help youth understand what active citizenship feels like.

Then there’s Scouting for Food, the annual event that proves Scouts can rally a community faster than you can say “Do a Good Turn Daily.” With cheerful persistence, youth canvas neighborhoods, collect donations, and help stock local food pantries—an effort that often makes a tangible difference for families in need. It’s a powerful lesson: even small acts, repeated by many hands, can create meaningful change. And that’s the true impact of Scouting. It inspires youth to serve, strengthens communities, and turns everyday goodwill into something remarkable—and sometimes even fun.

In my few months in the district Hunterdon Arrowhead has exemplified the impact of Scouting in our community and beyond. Thank you to all who contribute to our activities and programs or who have extended an invitation to join you in your units.

Yours in Scouting,

Alice Hillary

Hunterdon Arrowhead District Executive

O: (215) 348-7205 x314

M: (609) 206-1963

alice.hillary@scouting.org

Advancement

Hunterdon Arrowhead 2025 Eagle Scouts

Our district had 88 scouts earn the rank of Eagle in 2025. Kudos to each and everyone of them. Congratulations to the leaders and families that supported them on this journey!

Kyle I T65	Carson Y T288	William Tate H T121	Ian O T191	Seth G T65
Adam C T199	Christian R T288	Christopher S T92	Matthew B T192B	Daniel I T65
William B T121	Matthew S T92	Lucas B T121	Connor R T194	Madden K T92
Marissa M T186G	Bodhi P T62	Tyler T T108	Adam C T199	Matthew S T92
Connor R T194	Elias W T121	William B T121	Henry F T199	Vencentio T T92
Jack B T121	Jackson C T65	Jack B T121	Bo P T200	Christopher S T92
Cooper B T121	Ian O T191	Cooper B T121	Mitchell d T288
Samuel M T49	William P T62	Eliaz M T121	Johnny K T288
Stanislaw D T49	Henry F T199	Douglas H T121	Carson Y T288
Lucas B T187	William M T187	Nathan H T121	Christian R T288
Noah L T49	Bo P T200	Elias W T121	Samuel M T49
Michael G T65	Tyler T T108	William Tate H T121	Stanislaw D T49
William B T65	Luke D T187	Lucas B T121	Noah L T49
Eliaz M T121	Jason S T65	Stephen W T186	Bodhi P T62
Madden K T92	Seth G T65	Daniel S T186	William P T62
Charoltte B T186G	Vencentio T T92	Marissa M T186G	Kyle I T65
Douglas H T121	Daniel I T65	Charoltte B T186G	Michael G T65
Nathan H T121	Matthew B T192B	Lucas B T187	William B T65
Mitchell d T288	Stephen W T186	William M T187	Jackson C T65
Johnny K T288	Daniel S T186	Luke D T187	Jason S T65

Program Updates

Annual Awards Nominations

Scouters –

It is that time of year again when we take the time to recognize the Scouters who help make Scouting a successful program for our youth in your unit or the Hunterdon Arrowhead District or Washington Crossing Council.

The district has several awards for scouting adults, at least one for venturing youth and at least two that can be awarded to non-scouting members of our community or businesses that have made an impact in the last 12 months.

Attached is a list and the descriptions of each award.

HAD Award Descriptions: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1iKyE1cjJkq1mt0MAaGi64k_9-lcMam-R/view?usp=drive_link

The Fleur Di Lis awards are one of personal favorites because EVERY UNIT gets to award one to an adult in their unit. It is a way to brag to the entire district about an adult who has gone above and beyond for you this year. So committee chairs – get to thinking about someone that you want to recognize.

The District Award of Merit is a council award presented by districts in the same manner that the Silver Beaver is a national award presented by councils.

The award is available to Scouters who render service of an outstanding nature at the district level. An individual can only earn it once in each district that they serve and is one of only a few awards that is presented with a knot that can be worn on the uniform. The full requirements can be found on the application form. The application is an official BSA form and will take some work to fill out so if you are considering nominating someone for this award, please leave yourself some time. Any Key 3 can create a report from my.scouting for filling in some of the history that is requested. This one is ABSOLUTELY required by May 1^st.

I would ask that each unit review the list of awards and if you have someone you wish to nominate for any of the awards, please submit the nomination by MAY 1, 2026.

Nomination forms will be forthcoming, but if you want to get a head start on nominating a deserving leader/volunteer, please email Janell Bunger-Spiecha.

The awards dinner is being planned for June 10, 2026. More details will be shared in our next newsletter.

Email District Commissioner

Scout Sunday/Scout Sabbath/Scout Jumuah

Small scouts chirped GOOD MORNING! WELCOME TO SCOUT SUNDAY! An exhuberant Tiger Scout ran back and forth looking thru the exterior church doors and opening them against the cold and wind when a church goer was sighted. This was Scout Sunday at Immaculate Conception Annandale on Sunday February 8^th at the noon Mass.

For us at ICC it was a very special day with every single Mass ministry 100% staffed by a current or former member of the Girl Scouts USA, Scouting America or Boy Scouts of America. From Greeter to Priest, Eucharistic Minister to Deacon, and Cantor to Piano Accompanist, all shared in the community and leadership of Scouting.

The date marked the 116^th Anniversary of Scouting in the United States and the 100^th Anniversary Weekend of Scouting Religious Awards being introduced in the United States. Our seven (7) Cub Scout medal recipients that day were the inheritors of a tradition that was started in 1926 by a newly ordained priest, James E. Dolan, in the Diocese of Los Angeles-San Diego. Father Dolan designed the Ad Altare Dei (To the altar of God) program to foster spiritual development among scouts seeking to fulfill their to Duty to God and the twelfth point of the Scout Law – Reverence.

Pack 61 was honored to take part in Scout Sunday at Flemington Presbyterian Church!

Each February, Scouts across the country celebrate Scout Sunday, Scout Sabbath (Shabbat), and Scout Jumuah—faith-based observances that highlight the Scout Law point, “A Scout is Reverent.” These celebrations are a meaningful way for Scouts to honor their faith, thank their chartered organizations, and share Scouting with their faith communities.

Scouts & Scouters from Troop 65 celebrated Scout Sunday at Kirkpatrick Memorial Presbyterian Church in Ringoes followed by fellowship.

Blue & Gold Place mats

Order Your Place mats for Blue & Gold!

It's time to order Blue and Gold place mats for your upcoming cub events!

Use the form linked below to order by district with the option to pick up at WCC Scout Shop, delivered at the next District Committee or RoundTable, or to arrange a delivery from your District Executive.

Visit our Council website to place your order.

*Place mats not picked up by the event date will be charged a printing fee.

Order Here

Order of the Arrow

‘Tis the season for OA elections!

Youth leaders from the Order of the Arrow came out to this month's H.A.R.T. to promote OA election season. Troops should sign up for a date and time where our chapter youth can visit the unit and talk about Scouting's honor society, the Order of the Arrow. They can also run elections for units with eligible youth. Scouts must have earned First Class rank and have a total of 15 camping nights, including one long-term camp of 5 nights, across 2 years, to qualify.

Scan the QR code below to schedule your unit's election visit. Elections are ending soon!

Air Rifle Activities

Air Rifle Competition

Scouts BSA & Venturers

Walk-in registration, $10 paid at the door.

Dates: March 1st, & April 12th

Time: 12:30-4:30pm (arrive no later than 3pm)

Location: Ockanickon Scout Reservation - Foster Hall

Membership Spring Recruitment

Spring is prime time to strengthen your unit. Identify missing den levels and plan targeted Den Gap Fill efforts now so you head into summer strong. A simple spring join night, bring-a-friend activity, or focused outreach can close gaps quickly. Growth now sets you up for success at the June 30 benchmark and into fall. For support or planning help, reach out to your Membership Chair or District Executive

We’re here to support you through each step. Please email alice.hillary@scouting.org to get help planning a recruitment activity.

Rifle Merit Badge

Limited space available. Space is given on a first-paid, first-served basis.

Must attend all 4 sessions to complete the merit badge.

Price: $30

Dates: March 1st, & April 12th

Time: 2:00-4:00pm - please arrive by 1:45

Location: Ockanickon Scout Reservation

2026 Spring Camporee

Celebrating America's 250th Anniversary 24-25 April 2026

More Information Here

39th Annual Traditional Jewish Scout Conclave

Troop 613G Attended FoSSS Conclave

Lielle Nahum Assistant Scoutmaster for T613G in the Hunterdon Arrowhead District. attended the 39th Annual Traditional Jewish Scout Conclave at the Alpine Scout Camp in New Jersey. It was hosted by the Friends of Shomer Shabbat Scouting (FoSSS), “...a 501(c)(3) organization serving Jewish youth with Scouting", which is connected to the Jewish Committee on Scouting. The FoSSS is headed by Dr. Howard Spielman, Scoutmaster of Troop 54 in Brookline, MA, who has led the FoSSS since its inception. Jewish troops along the east coast came from as far north as Massachusetts and as far south as Florida to participate in the conclave. Many merit badge sessions were offered, including emergency preparedness, personal fitness, bugling, and engineering & drafting. The Conclave provided was kosher food and prayer thrice a day, making it accessible to Jews of all levels of religious observance.

"I particularly enjoyed this event because it exposed me to the vibrant and active Jewish community within scouting. Attending this event provided the opportunity to meet nearby Jewish troop leaders, connect to Jewish merit badge counselors from the NY/NJ areas, and access communication channels about local opportunities and events for Jewish Scouts. One such opportunity is the new Jewish Sea Scout Ship 0613 based out of Mount Pleasant, South Carolina. Another is the Shomer Shabbos ("keeping of the sabbath") Contingent to the National Jamboree, which is offering kosher food, daily prayer, and sabbath-compliant transport to and from the National Jamboree this summer for Jewish scouts." - Lielle Nahum

To learn more about scouting for Jewish youth and leaders, visit the National Jewish Committee on Scouting website.

Learn More Here

2026 Yukon Trail

2026 Fish Camp for Cubs

Fish Camp is a Cub Scout family camping adventure for all Cub Scouts at Ockanickon Scout Reservation, May 8–10. Cubs and parents will learn fishing knots, build their own rods, discover local fish species, and enjoy time on the shores of Great Buck Lake—with all meals included for a worry-free weekend of fun and learning.

SCOUTS BSA - If you are interested in staffing Fish Camp, follow the link below!

Drop a Hook, Catch a Line

2026 Cub Scout Day Camp

The 2026 Cub Scout Day Camp “Dinotopia” will be here before you know it! Cub Scout Day Camp is a fun-filled week of adventure for Cub Scouts. Make new friends while participating in archery, fishing, STEM, sports, Scout skills, crafts, nature, and more! Scouts are placed in dens by age and grade, and stay in those dens all week. Age appropriate activities are offered to challenge the campers and allow them to learn new skills or expand existing skills. Campers will rotate through a variety of stations each day. Our camps are assessed annually and are nationally accredited to ensure the highest quality and safety so your child will have a positive camp experience! There are 5 different weeks of day camp to choose from. Consider volunteering with your child to join in the fun. Camp is where memories are made to last a lifetime!

Registration opens February 1, 2026

For More Information

Summer Camp at OSR

2026 Reservations

Troops can start planning now for Summer Camp 2026 at Ockanickon! With over 80 merit badges to choose from, every troop should consider OSR as a summer camp option. Troop deposits are now being accepted!

The theme for 2026 will be based on America’s 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence.

Troops can choose from six different sessions:

Week 1 June 21 - 27

Week 2 June 28 - July 4

Week 3 July 5 - July 11

Week 4 July 12 - 18

Week 5 July 19 - 25

Week 6 July 26 - August 1

Reserve Here

Celebrate America's 250th with a Flag Day Parade

In honor of the 250th anniversary of the founding of the United States, the Hunterdon County community is coming together for a spectacular Sestercentennial Parade on Sunday, June 14, 2026. This historic event marks a once-in-a-generation celebration of our nation’s heritage, and all residents are invited to join in the festivities.

As part of this joyous occasion, the County of Hunterdon and the Hunterdon County Chamber of Commerce is extending a special invitation to every scout unit in Hunterdon County — including Cub Scouts, Scouts, and Explorers — to participate in the parade. Whether your unit would like to march together or showcase a creative float, we want to see our local Scouts front and center as we commemorate this milestone in American history.

“Scouting plays such an important role in building civic pride, leadership, and community spirit,” said Chris Phelan, Hunterdon Arrowhead District Chair. “We would be thrilled to have every Scout unit join us in this parade — walking together, sharing your traditions, and celebrating the values that make our country strong.”

How Scouts Can Participate

Scout units interested in joining the parade are encouraged to:

· March together as a group

· Build and enter a themed float

· Show your flags, banners, and colors

· Represent your Pack, Troop, Crew, or Troop family with pride

Registration information and event details are available through the Hunterdon County Chamber of Commerce calendar:

This community celebration promises fun for all ages! We look forward to seeing Hunterdon County’s Scouts take a leading role in honoring America’s 250th!

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