November 2025

A Message from our District Chair

Dear Scouting Family,

As we gather this Thanksgiving to reflect on all that we are grateful for, I am reminded of how deeply connected the spirit of Scouting is to the values this season represents — gratitude, service, and community.

Here in Hunterdon County, Scouting continues to make a profound difference in the lives of countless young people. From the Cub Scouts just beginning their journey of discovery to the Scouts, Explorers and Venturers who lead by example in their troops, posts and crews, the lessons of citizenship, leadership, and service are being lived out every day. The impact of Scouting is not measured in merit badges earned, but in the character, confidence, and compassion that these young people carry into their families, schools, and communities.

This Thanksgiving, let us take a moment to be thankful for the generations of Scouters who have come before us — those who built the foundation of our local Scouting tradition here in Hunterdon County. Their dedication and vision created opportunities that continue to shape lives today. Let us also express our deep gratitude to our current leaders, volunteers, and families who give so selflessly of their time, energy, and heart to make Scouting possible.

Most of all, we should be thankful for the trust placed in us — the opportunity to help guide, mentor, and inspire young people as they grow into the leaders of tomorrow. It is a sacred responsibility and a true gift to be part of their journey.

On behalf of the entire Hunterdon Arrowhead District, I wish you and your families a Thanksgiving filled with peace, gratitude, and the warmth of fellowship that Scouting so beautifully represents.

Yours in Scouting,

Christopher J. Phelan

Chair - Hunterdon Arrowhead District Committee

District Executive

Hello HAD Members,

As I am rounding out my second week in the position, I want to express my gratitude for the warm welcomes and opportunities to meet some of you already. I am inspired by the accomplishments of our scouts and units including service projects, community outreach, and fundraising. I look forward to connecting with each unit over the course of the next few months and learning more about our leaders and scouts.

As I drive around the county, leaves turning vibrant colors, I am reminded that change can be beautiful. Autumn brings us cooler temperatures, campfires, and fellowship. There will also be time to join together and celebrate. I have always enjoyed Packsgiving with the pack and the annual tradition of dressing like a turkey with my troop on Thanksgiving morning to cheer on runners at the Turkey Trot. Hopefully, you each have wonderful traditions to share, too.

Our next few months will give us many opportunities to "Do a Good Turn" in our communities. I encourage you to look for clothing drives, food drives, local ecology projects, or simply helping neighbors in need.

In future months I plan to use this space to celebrate, reflect, and inspire. I may also sneak in some fun challenges.

Thank you for making me feel valued and welcomed.

Yours in Scouting,

Alice Hillary

Hunterdon Arrowhead District Executive

(215) 348-7205 x314

alice.hillary@scouting.org

Unit Renewal

Unit Renewal season is here, and now is the time for every Pack, Troop, Crew, and Ship to complete their annual charter renewal. Renewing your unit ensures continuous insurance coverage, active status in the council, and uninterrupted program delivery for your Scouts. The council’s renewal guide outlines the key steps, timelines, and requirements to help units complete the process smoothly. Let’s work together to keep every unit strong and fully renewed for the coming Scouting year.

Renewal Help

Advancement

Scouts BSA Test Lab Releases New Prospective Merit Badges.

The Scouts BSA Test Lab is an exciting way to help in the development of fun and interesting new topics unique to the Scouts BSA program. Recent additions include Physics, Sewing & Needlework, and Dance. The requirements for each badge have the look and feel of merit badges, but instead of a printed pamphlet, you will find links to digital resources to help you complete the requirements.

Scouts BSA Advancement Demystified: “The Power of the Panel: Elevating Your Boards of Review”

The next installment of Scouts BSA’s webinar focused on troop advancement is coming up at 8pm on December 3, and will include two of Mercer Area District’s own, Michael Merritt and Vince Lauricella. Learn best practices for conducting boards of review that benefit Scouts on their advancement journey. We’ll cover how to strengthen your understanding of this critical milestone and create positive experiences for Scouts at every rank level. The webinar is being recorded for later viewing. You can submit questions in advance to advancement.team@scouting.org.

Program Updates

Around the District

Annual Rocket Launch

Shout out to Troop 62, Troop 65 and Troop 108G for coming to help out with Pack 61's Annual Rocket Launch! By the amount of smiles we saw it was clear they had a "blast"!

District Committee Meeting Update

We were honored to welcome Linn Maskell, our guest speaker from Australia, at this month’s District Committee meeting. Linn delivered a special presentation focused on best practices for working with Scouts who have special needs. Her insight and international perspective provided valuable tools and inspiration for supporting all youth in our Scouting programs.

Pictured: Magne G. Gundersen-Scout Executive, Alice Hillary-District Executive, Linn Maskell, Tracey Giannouris, and Christopher Phelan-District Commissioner

Congratulations Beverly Ganley!

We were honored to recognize Beverly Ganley with a special presentation celebrating her remarkable 40 years of service to Scouting. Beverly’s dedication, leadership, and unwavering commitment have made a lasting impact on countless Scouts and families throughout the years. Her four decades of service stand as an inspiring example of living the values of Scouting every day.

Pictured: Magne G. Gundersen-Scout Executive, Janell Bunger-Spiecha, Beverly Ganley, Alice Hillary-District Executive and Chris Phelan-District Commissioner

Pinewood Derby

Start Your Engines! Pinewood Derby Car Kits Are Here!

It’s that exciting time of year again—Pinewood Derby season! Packs can now pick up their official Pinewood Derby car kits at the Council Scout Shop so their Cub Scouts can start designing their winning creations.

Each kit includes everything you need to get started: a wooden block, wheels, and axles—ready for your Cub Scout’s creativity, craftsmanship, and competitive spirit. Whether you’re planning to build a sleek speedster or a wild themed racer, now’s the perfect time to grab your kit and start shaping your design.

Don’t wait until the last minute—supplies go fast! Stop by the Scout Shop today to get your Pinewood Derby car kit and join the fun of one of Scouting’s most beloved traditions.

Price: $6.99

Bulk purchase of 12 or more $5.99 each

Visit our Council website for Scout Shop hours.

Scout Shop Hours

Air Rifle Activities

Air Rifle Competition

Scouts BSA & Venturers

Walk-in registration, $5 paid at the door.

Dates: December 7

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

Location: Ockanickon Scout Reservation - Foster Hall

Range & Target Activities

Throughout the year, the Council's 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.

BB Gun Adventure: December 7

2026 Klondike Derby

Registration now open!

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