Next Level Scouting

December 17, 2025 | Greater LA Scouting, Scouting America

Taking Scouting to the Next Level: Congratulations to Ethan!

Scouting is about growth, curiosity, and pushing personal limits, and Ethan B. has truly taken Scouting to the next level. Ethan has achieved the remarkable and rare accomplishment of earning all 142 merit badges, in addition to attaining the prestigious rank of Eagle Scout.

A member of Troop 438 and Sea Scout Ship 550, Ethan’s Scouting journey is a testament to dedication, perseverance, and a lifelong love of learning.

Ethan’s ambitious goal began early in his Scouting career. As a Cub Scout, his Cubmaster explained that earning merit badges would be a key part of the Scout experience. Curious and motivated, Ethan asked a simple but powerful question: What would I receive if I earned them all? That moment sparked a journey that would set him apart in Scouting history.

Long before becoming an Eagle Scout, Ethan demonstrated exceptional commitment by earning all awards available in Cub Scouting, including the Arrow of Light, the highest honor in the Cub Scout program. That early foundation of achievement carried forward as he embraced every opportunity Scouting had to offer, one merit badge at a time.

Earning all 142 merit badges requires mastery across an extraordinary range of subjects, from outdoor skills and leadership to science, technology, trades, and the arts. Ethan’s accomplishment reflects not only academic excellence but also character, service, and determination.

Congratulations to Ethan on this outstanding achievement. Your dedication exemplifies the very best of Scouting and serves as an inspiration to Scouts everywhere to dream big, work hard, and never stop exploring what is possible.

Staying True to Scouting's Apolitical Mission

Scouting has thrived for more than a century because families from every background trust that our movement is about youth—never politics. Our Rules and Regulations are clear: 'The Boy Scouts of America must not… involve Scouting in political matters.' That applies to national, councils, units, volunteers, and youth—at meetings, activities, online, and in the wider community.

To preserve that trust—especially in today’s highly charged political environment—we are asking every council and unit to recommit to the following:

No political activity in uniform or under the Scouting brand. Do not attend or participate in rallies, marches, fundraisers, or public events that carry political messages while in uniform or using the Scouting name, marks, or channels.

Uniform integrity. Keep the official uniform exactly as specified; no additions or alterations that signal political viewpoints or causes.

Brand stewardship. Councils and units must use approved marks only and must not combine Scouting branding with political imagery or themes.

A Scout is Courteous. We welcome every family committed to the Scout Oath and Law. We prohibit bullying, harassment, and unlawful discrimination—online and in person—and we expect leaders to ensure a respectful environment for all youth.

Personal civic engagement is important and your right—but do it as a private individual, off‑duty, out of uniform, and without Scouting marks. When we keep Scouting apolitical, we protect our mission and the trust that families place in us. Thank you for your leadership.

Yours in Scouting

Roger Krone

Chief Scout Executive

President & CEO

Q: What if a youth or adult appears in uniform at a political event?

A: Gently but firmly require removal from the event or change out of uniform. Document the incident; provide coaching; escalate to the council if patterns persist.

Q: Can councils hold fundraisers tied to polarizing themes?

A: Fundraising must align with Scouting principles and protect the brand; avoid overtly political or adult‑oriented themes. Use the council approval process and brand standards; when in doubt, decline.

Q: How do we balance ‘everyone is welcome’ with apolitical requirements?

A: We invite all families who embrace the Oath and Law—and we demand a respectful environment. Welcoming people is about conduct and character; politics belongs outside Scouting and out of uniform.

Join Us in Celebrating Our 2025 Honorees!

We are pleased to invite you to the Annual Recognition Dinner on Wednesday, January 28, 2026, at the Quiet Cannon. This special evening brings our Scouting community together to honor individuals who exemplify leadership, service, and unwavering dedication to our youth.

This evening, we will be celebrating our amazing Silver Beavers, National Outstanding Eagle Scout Awardees, and also Class of 2025 Eagle Scouts, over 345 young leaders who represent the highest ideals of Scouting.

We invite our community to help ensure that every member of the Class of 2025 Eagle Scouts can attend this celebration. Attendance for Eagle Scouts is made possible through the generosity of event sponsors. If you are unable to attend the dinner, we invite you to consider supporting Eagle Scout attendance through a sponsorship. Your support allows these new Eagles to be recognized alongside the Scouters who helped guide their journey and affirms our shared commitment to investing in the next generation of leaders.

Together, we can ensure that every Eagle Scout is honored in the way this milestone deserves.

Join us for a night of fellowship, celebration, and gratitude as we honor the remarkable Scouters who continue to make a lasting difference in our communities.

Registration is NOW OPEN!

Wednesday, January 28, 2026

Reception: 6:00 PM

Dinner Program: 7:00 PM

Quiet Cannon – Banquet Hall

901 Bella Verde Dr., Montebello, CA 90640

Eagle Scout Excellence Opens Doors to College Scholarships

The excellence developed by youth who commit their time, effort, and leadership to Scouting does not go unnoticed. Across the country, colleges, universities, and organizations recognize the achievement of earning the rank of Eagle Scout by offering scholarships designed specifically to support these outstanding young leaders as they pursue higher education.

Belcher Foundation Eagle Scout Scholarship

Eagle Scouts in the Greater Los Angeles Scouting may apply for the Belcher Foundation Eagle Scout Scholarship. This scholarship supports Eagle Scouts planning to attend a four-year college or university immediately following high school graduation.

Total Award: $7,000 over two years
Distribution: $3,500 for the first year, renewable for a second year
Renewal Requirements:
Completion of at least 24 college credits
Minimum college GPA of 2.5

This scholarship reflects the community’s commitment to investing in local youth who exemplify Scouting values.

National Eagle Scout Association (NESA) Scholarships

The National Eagle Scout Association (NESA) offers several highly competitive scholarships, including awards of up to $50,000.

Application Window is Now Open: December 1, 2025 – January 31, 2026
Eligibility Requirement: Applicants must be members of NESA
5-year membership: $100
Lifetime membership: $500
A 15% discount is available if you join within six months of your Eagle Board of Review

Now is the time for eligible Eagle Scouts to apply.

Eagle Scout Alumni Association of Alpha Phi Omega

The Eagle Scout Alumni Association of Alpha Phi Omega offers scholarships ranging from $2,000 to $5,000. These awards recognize Eagle Scouts who demonstrate:

Active participation in school
Continued involvement in Scouting
Meaningful community service
A strong commitment to Leadership, Friendship, and Service

Additional Scholarships

Earning the rank of Eagle Scout is more than a personal milestone; it is a powerful credential that opens doors to educational opportunities nationwide. Eagle Scouts and their families are encouraged to explore these scholarships early and take full advantage of the recognition they have earned through Scouting.

Celebrating 75 Years of Scouting: Troop 167

On Saturday, October 25, 2025, Troop 167, chartered by St. Luke’s Catholic Church, proudly celebrated 75 years of Scouting excellence. Founded in December 1949, Troop 167 is Temple City’s longest continuously active troop and has positively impacted the lives of more than 300 youth.

Over the past 75 years, the troop has produced 118 Eagle Scouts and has been guided by 34 dedicated Scoutmasters, creating a lasting legacy of leadership and service.

The celebration at St. Luke’s Parish Hall welcomed 130 guests, including current Scouts and families, 22 Eagle Scout alumni, and former members from as far back as 1969, some traveling from out of state to attend. The event honored generations of leadership, with 11 current and former Scoutmasters and Assistant Scoutmasters in attendance.

Troop 167 was recognized by the City of Temple City, with Councilmember Tom Chavez presenting a certificate of recognition.

Today, Troop 167 remains an active and thriving program, offering weekly meetings, outdoor adventures, service projects, and continued support of the St. Luke’s community and local events.

Congratulations to Troop 167 on 75 years of shaping leaders and serving the community!

Make an Impact Before the Year Ends

Your generosity at year’s end helps shape what Scouting can accomplish in the year ahead. A gift to Greater LA Scouting keeps Scouting affordable, supports camperships for families who need assistance, and strengthens local units so every Scout has the opportunity to learn, grow, and lead.

Your investment also supports the volunteers who bring Scouting to life and ensures our camp properties remain safe, welcoming, and ready for adventure. This work is especially important as we prepare to reopen Camp Cherry Valley and look ahead to another summer at Hubert Eaton Scout Reservation, continuing to invest in the places where Scouts build confidence, character, and lifelong skills.

Your gift today can help

$26 supports essential supplies for training and programs
$100 provides hands-on program materials so Scouts can learn outdoor skills
$250 strengthens volunteer development across our units
$750 helps maintain safe, high-quality camp properties for all youth
$2,500 ensures transformative Scouting experiences so more youth can join and thrive

Gifts made by December 31 are tax-deductible and help ensure Greater LA Scouting begins the new year strong and ready to serve.

Donate Now

My.Scouting.org

Stay Prepared with Hazardous Weather Training

Every year, Scouts face challenging weather—from summer camp heat to sudden thunderstorms on the trail. Prepared leaders make the difference between a close call and a crisis.

Hazardous Weather Training is an online course that equips adult leaders to recognize and respond to weather-related hazards before, during, and after outdoor activities. This training is required for all direct-contact leaders, including Scoutmasters, Assistant Scoutmasters, Den Leaders, Cubmasters, and Outdoor Activity Leaders, and is valid for two years.

Log in to your my.scouting.org account today, navigate to the Training Center → Hazardous Weather Training, and ensure your certification is current.

Thank you for being the leader our youth need!

Plan Ahead: Arcadia Scout Shop Holiday Hours

As we head into the holiday season, the Arcadia Scout Shop will be adjusting its hours to observe upcoming holiday closures. Please plan your visits and shop early for all your Scouting needs, especially Rose Parade uniforms, patches, and sewing supplies.

Arcadia Scout Shop Holiday Schedule:

Christmas: Closing at 1:00 pm on December 24, Closed December 25–26
New Year’s: Closing early at 5:00 PM on December 31 and closed January 1

Rose Parade Reminder

Be sure to stop by early to pick up everything you need for the parade, including uniform pieces, patches, sewing supplies, and accessories.

Thank you for your understanding, and happy holidays!

Scout Shop Information

Calling All Eagle Scouts from the Class of 2025!

The Greater Los Angeles Scouting Eagle Scout Association is now accepting applications for the Glenn A. and Melinda W. Adams National Eagle Scout Service Project of the Year Award. This prestigious award honors Scouts for their outstanding Eagle Scout service projects, a cornerstone of earning the rank of Eagle Scout.

Key Details:

Eligibility: Eagle Scout Class of 2025
Deadline: Friday, January 2, 2026

Learn more about the NESA Eagle Scout Service Project of the Year

Download the nomination form

Submit your nomination here

Don’t miss the opportunity to gain recognition for your impactful project and inspire others with your leadership and service!

Scouting for Everyone: An Inclusion Forum for Growing Membership & Building Belonging

Join us January 16–17, 2026, at the Cushman Watt Scout Center for Scouting for Everyone, an inspiring and practical forum designed to help create a more inclusive, welcoming, and thriving Scouting experience for all.

Whether you’re an employee, volunteer, or passionate supporter, this two-day event will equip you with the tools and insights to grow membership by embracing diversity, breaking down barriers, and fostering a true sense of belonging in every unit and council. The $100 conference fee includes meals, workshops, program materials, a special event neckerchief, and a commemorative patch.

Discover real-world strategies, hear impactful stories, and learn how to ensure every young person and family feels seen, heard, valued, and respected in Scouting. Because when everyone is welcomed, Scouting grows stronger.

Let’s build a movement where everyone belongs, because Scouting is for Everyone.

A Discussion with Rich Pfaltzgraff, NESA President

Join us for a webinar on Sunday, January 11, 2026, 3:30 PM, featuring Richard Pfaltzgraff, President of the National Eagle Scout Association (NESA). Rich will lead an open discussion on topics related to the National Eagle Scout Association, and we want your input to help guide the topics and questions that we will focus on as they relate to NESA. The NESA Vice President will join Rich in the discussion.

To help guide our planning for the event, we are asking you to submit questions that you have focused on NESA.

You may submit your questions at any time between now and midnight Eastern Time on January 3, 2026. Submit your questions here.