The Digital Eagle

Welcome to the July 2023 edition of the Digital Eagle.

This is a monthly publication of the Greater Alabama Council, BSA.

View the Digital Eagle as a Webpage

Safety Moment- Heat-Related Illness

As the temperatures soar this summer, it is important that we focus on the dangers of excessive heat and the illnesses related to it. Summer is prime-time for outdoor adventures, and being prepared for the heat can make your next adventure a success. Please familiarize yourselves with Heat-Related Illnesses and their prevention and continue to provide a safe scouting environment for all of our Scouts.

Join us for the 50th Annual Youth At Risk Breakfast

Come join us on August 24th at 7:30am at the Hilton Hotel at UAB for the 50th Annual Youth at Risk Breakfast featuring UAB Head Men's Basketball Coach, Andy Kennedy. Seats are filling quickly, so contact Heather Mayfield to save your spot today or call her at 205-969-4255.

Unit Program Planning

It is time to start planning your unit’s next year of Scouting adventures! We have all the resources to help you create an amazing annual plan including the 2023-2024 planning calendar. If you missed the training in May that's ok, all of the training materials are available online!

Popcorn Sale Kickoff: July 15th!

Our Council Popcorn sale kicks-off in July. Make sure to get your unit registered so that you won’t miss out! Virtual Leader Kick-off is July 15th at 9:30am.  Be sure to get your unit registered today!

"25 For 25" Council Service Project

We invite you and your unit to join in the celebration of the Council's 25th Annviersary by participating in the "25 for 25" community service project. The aim of the "25 for 25" Project is to encourage Scouts, their Units, and their Families to provide at least 25 hours of community service to commemorate the anniversary of the Council! Details and how to submit submit project reports can be found on line.

Important Scouts BSA Advancement Update

The BSA has updated or modified requirements for thirty (30) merit badges including eight Eagle Required Merit Badges. For full details and new requirements, visit the BSA's Merit Badge Hub.

Save the Dates and Reminders:

• Cub Haunted Weekend registration opens late July!
• Aviation and Weather Merit Badge Day, August, 26th
• Vulcan District Advance-O-Rama, August 12th
• Greater Alabama Council 25th Anniversary Celebration, November 11th

Visit our Activities & Programs page for more information.

Wilderness First Aid

Wilderness First Aid (WFA) is the assessment of and treatment given to an ill or injured person where physician provided aid or rapid transport is more than an hour away. This 16 hour course will equip you with the skills and confidence to render aid for trauma and illness when in the backcountry.

August WFA Course: August 19-20 at Camp Jackson.

Powder Horn

Powder Horn is a High Adventure Resource Management Course open to all Scouting Adults and Youth age 14+. Participants will learn the necessary skills to oversee a high adventure program and learn of local resources available for your group’s program. 

Oct 6-8, Nov 3-5 at Camp Jackson and Camp Comer.

National Youth Leadership Training

NYLT is a six day, five night course that provides Scouts (13+ in age) with methods, skills and experiences to become better leaders in their unit.

Winter NYLT Course: January 13-15 and February 17-19 at Camp Comer.

Camping and Programs Ambassador Training

The GAC is looking for CPAs- Camping and Programs Ambassadors! A CPA is a Scouter who is passionate about the world of opportunities and excitement Scouting opens up to young people. As a CPA, you will help promote essential aspects of the Scouting program- camping opportunities, special events, youth training, adult leader training, and much more! Spots are limited, so don't delay!

The training will be August 12th at Camp Comer from 9am to 3pm.

2023 Summer Induction Weekend-

August 11-13, 2023

All newly elected Candidates for the Order of the Arrow and existing Coosa Lodge members are encouraged to attend the Summer Induction Weekend on August 11-13 at Camp Comer. We invite you to join us as we help prepare Camp Comer for the 2023 Fall Activities and Camping season. Registration will close on Sunday, August 6th. Check-in at camp opens at 6pm and will close at 11pm.

Lodge History Virtual Cracker Barrel

Join us at 8pm on the 4th Thursday of each month for a Virtual Cracker Barrel to learn about our lodge's history followed by a group discussion. Follow us on Facebook or join our email list. Bring your best Scout Spirit and your own snacks!

Information Flyer

OA Events and Reminders:

• Reminder to pay your 2023 OA Dues.
• OA Troop Elections for 2023 can still take place. Click here to request a unit election visit.
• Coosa Lodge Fall Fellowship, Camp Comer, November 17-19.

Visit the Coosa Lodge Website