Ethan Jewett has been a cornerstone of Outdoor Service Guides, with contributions that extend both nationally and internationally. His commitment to building bridges between Scouting communities and expanding OSG’s reach has left an indelible mark. Ethan’s efforts in developing our BTC3 program, born from his collaboration with BPSA-BC to incorporate Wood Beads training, have been pivotal in aligning OSG’s educational resources with our core mission and values. His dedication to fostering a strong relationship with the Vietnamese Scouting community further underscores his commitment to the global siblinghood of Scouting.

Ethan is well known across OSG as the leading canoe enthusiast and instructor, a passion that has fueled his dedication to Scouting. However, his impact goes far beyond canoeing. He serves as Group Scoutmaster of the 55th Cascadia, Regional Commissioner for the West, and plays a crucial role as Provost Commissioner, providing support for all regions. Ethan also efficiently manages the Pacific Northwest Quartermaster Store, ensuring smooth operations for all regional events.

These are a few of the responsibilities which place Ethan at the heart of OSG leadership. His proactive approach in stepping into vacant roles, creating design collateral, and his remarkable volunteerism, both inside and outside OSG, are testament to his unwavering dedication. During a challenging period of volunteer shortages, Ethan volunteered to spearhead efforts in onboarding, recruitment, and administrative tasks, ensuring OSG stayed grounded in its core values. His work doesn’t end at the administrative level – Ethan has been instrumental in organizing and running annual Brownsea Training Camps, Hullabaloos, paddle camps, and countless other key events, exemplifying the Rover motto of “service” each and every day.

These accomplishments merely scratch the surface of Ethan’s immeasurable contributions to OSG and his broader community.

Similarly, Rover Carrie Davis has made an incredible impact, reshaping OSG’s training programs and resources. Carrie’s leadership as Group Scoutmaster of the 150th Willamette, National Training Commissioner, and now Board Member at Large has significantly influenced the growth and development of our organization. While her dedication as a GSM is impressive, it is her work at the national level that truly sets her apart as a deserving recipient of the Chief Commissioner’s Award.

Among Carrie’s most impactful contributions is her complete overhaul of the BTC3 materials, which she meticulously rewrote. Her attention to detail, clarity, and dedication to making these resources accessible ensure that future generations of scouts and leaders are well-prepared to thrive. In addition, Carrie has played a pivotal role in developing the Virtual Online Training (VOLT) program, originally pioneered by Chief Richard Sowdon, and continues to enhance this invaluable resource.

Beyond her technical contributions, Carrie has served as a personal mentor to many Rovers. Her ability to balance the demanding role of GSM with her extensive national duties speaks volumes about her time management, dedication, and passion for service. Carrie has guided, mentored, and inspired countless individuals within OSG, setting a standard of excellence that resonates throughout the entire organization.

Both Ethan Jewett and Carrie Davis have shown exemplary service, earning their rightful place among the few who have received the Chief Commissioner’s Award. Though their contributions are different in scope, they share a common thread: an unwavering commitment to leadership, mentorship, and the principles that define our Scouting community.

As we honor their achievements, we are reminded of the lasting significance of the Red Lion – a symbol of service, and the embodiment of Scouting ideals. Ethan and Carrie have not only lived by these values but have shaped them for all of us. We are incredibly fortunate to have them as members of the OSG family, and their influence will undoubtedly continue to inspire future generations of Rovers for years to come.

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The handover ceremony was simple yet profound. A red cold-blast lantern, symbolic of the group and prominently featured on their group crest, sat glowing on a small folding table beside a plain campaign hat. In an emotional address, Chun-Yin shared his heartfelt reflections with the youth members and families present, expressing that serving as their GSM had been “the greatest honor in his scouting journey.” He reminisced about the early days when the 6th Woodrunners was founded on May 30, 2008, with only three members – Chun-Yin himself being one of them. When he assumed the GSM role in 2012, the group had grown to five members.

During Chun-Yin’s remarkable 12 years, 8 months, and 18 days as GSM, the 6th Woodrunners endured two organizational name changes, saw the leadership of nine different Chief Commissioners, hosted five Brownsea Training Camps for the Midwest Region, and produced two Baden-Powell Award recipients, including Chun-Yin himself – the first BIPOC recipient of the award. Before passing the symbolic red lantern and Scoutmaster hat to Steve, Chun-Yin reflected on a vision he had when the group was small: that one day, the campgrounds would be filled with many little Woodrunners, playing freely and enjoying the outdoors. He expressed his joy in seeing that vision realized.

Steve Sylvestre, who has been a Rover with the 6th Woodrunners since April 2018, stepped up as GSM following several years of dedicated service. Shortly after joining, he attended the Midwest BTC in May 2018 and soon became an Otter Leader. He was knighted in September 2019 and, by spring 2020, took on the role of Co-GSM. Professionally, Steve is an engineer and a passionate Taiko Drum performer. His wife, Missy, is also a Rover and leads the group’s Chipmunk section, established in 2023. Their children, Freddie (11) and Daisy (5), are youth members of the 6th Woodrunners.

Michelle Windey, another vital figure within the 6th Woodrunners, has been a Rover since November 2019. She became the group’s secretary in 2020 and was appointed Midwest Regional Training Commissioner in 2021. She was knighted in 2022. In May 2023, Michelle became the first recipient of the Pewter Acorn, a recognition of her exceptional service. Her dedication is evident in her travels – over 10,000 miles – between the East and West Coasts to assist the National Training Committee. Also in 2023, she earned her Certified Trainer qualification, and in February 2024, she was appointed National Secretary. Michelle’s niece, Kaylee (16), is a Pathfinder in the 6th Woodrunners.

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I humbly apologize that we have not held a national campfire since I took on the role as Chief. The reason is that I’ve been holding off on scheduling an event until we had subject matter to gather and discuss.

At our recent July Board of Directors meeting, we discussed several topics that we believe are crucial for our leaders nationwide. To keep the conversation vibrant and inclusive, we’re inviting you to a national virtual campfire on Monday, August 26 at 8 PM Eastern / 5 PM Pacific. This 90 minute event is designed to foster discussions, share ideas, and strengthen our community. We’ve highlighted some key topics below, but feel free to bring up anything else that’s on your mind!

Invitations will be sent by me to national leadership and commissioners. Regional and lone scout commissioners will forward the invitation to their local GSMs and Rovers.

Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion

We are working to clarify our Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion practices. DEI is the foundation of OSG, and we aim to formalize these principles in writing to guide our methods and conduct.

This initiative began with a bylaw amendment and has evolved into several supporting documents. These documents will serve as a reference for everyone, from the Board of Directors to individual patrols. We seek both awareness and feedback, ensuring that all Rovers agree to these guiding principles upon joining and during annual membership renewal.

Feel free to add your constructive comments and edit suggestions, and come as prepared as you like to discuss.

• Code of Conduct
• Program Aims and Methods
• Conflict Resolution Process

National Dues Increase

Starting November 1, 2024, all new memberships and renewals will be $25. While groups set their own dues to cover expenses like camping and program materials, this increase pertains to the national component.

Approximately 75% of national dues are used for background checks, with the remaining funds supporting training, Quartermaster, and other operating costs. Despite inflation and the financial strain from our name change during the pandemic, we aim to maintain our operations with this necessary increase.

Chief Emeritus Sowdon reminds us, “It’s (still) the best deal in scouting.” We continue to offer needs-based scholarships, no questions asked, for any group or member during charter, registration, or renewal.

For the first time in a long time, possibly in our organization’s history, we are facing a challenging financial situation with more forecasted payments than income. This reality underscores the urgency of the dues increase and the need for effective fundraising strategies that do not include cookie sales or magazine subscriptions.

During the campfire, we’ll discuss these strategies at local and national levels and welcome your input and volunteer efforts. Your support and ideas are crucial as we navigate these financial challenges together. If you have any special skills or experience in grant writing, endowments, estates or other opportunities within that domain, we can add to the list of volunteers to join the Fundraising Committee at the same time.

Brownsea Training Camp

Effective immediately, attending a Brownsea Training Camp (BTC) is no longer a mandatory requirement for Group Scoutmasters (GSMs) during their first year. While we still encourage attendance for leaders, especially GSMs and core group leadership as soon as possible, this change ensures that the requirement does not hinder new group formation.

BTC offers valuable leadership training and fosters cultural cohesion within OSG. Despite its importance, we believe regional commissioners can adequately support and integrate new groups. BTC remains highly encouraged for all Rovers, especially those in direct youth leadership roles.

We’ll discuss ways to promote cultural exchange and support new groups and GSMs, such as a mentor program pairing new leaders with established OSG leaders until a BTC is attended.

New Group Startup

We are streamlining the process for starting new groups to make it faster and more rewarding for new GSMs. The typical timeline from initial interest to recruiting members can take several months to a year. We aim to simplify this process by reducing burdensome requirements and enhancing the experience.

Your feedback and experiences are invaluable in this effort. Help us find better ways to onboard new groups effectively!

And So On

We look forward to a lively and productive conversation around our virtual campfire. Let’s come together, share ideas, and continue building a stronger, more inclusive OSG community.

Barring technical impediment, the campfire will be recorded and / or transcribed and shared so you can participate in the conversation asynchronously. This post will be updated with links after the fact.

See you there!

Rover Shane

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Over the last week, national leadership met at Camp Currie in Camas, WA to discuss our challenges and aspirations for the future. I want to take this opportunity to share some of the highlights coming out of this past week’s Headquarters Retreat.

To start, I’d like to sincerely thank our new Emeritus Chief, Richard Sowdon, for his service throughout his tenure. During this time, his calm and steady leadership has helped our organization pick up and dust itself off in the wake of the turmoil wrought by the pandemic.

Chief Sowdon set in motion training initiatives, including online Quick Start (the evolution of VOLT) and our new Advanced Leadership Training which was piloted this weekend. He followed through with our name change and presided over drafting new bylaws that emphasize organizational discipline and continuity. All of this while traveling the breadth of the country to scout with many groups, including completion of the longest single day paddle distance in OSG history… during a heat wave!

We owe much of our continued progress to Chief Sowdon. It is with great honor and humility that, following his decision to step back, I accepted the post of Chief Guide through election by the Board of Directors on Monday, February 26th, 2024. With your support, I hope we will continue the best of the service rendered by so many scouts and guides preceding us in building a principled and valued pillar within the worldwide scouting movement to which we belong.

Taking my place as Secretary is Michelle Windey, known to many of you as the well-traveled Midwest Training Commissioner. Jillian Tate, having resigned her Board seat expiring in 2025 to focus on continued excellence through her leadership of the Northeast region and NYC, is being replaced by Richard Sowdon for the remainder of her term. Richard will serve as Chairperson. Donathan Dedolph remains on the Board as Treasurer, as does Carrie Davis, our National Training Commissioner, and Ethan Jewett, our new Provost Commissioner.

It should not go without mentioning that the Board deeply appreciates the advisory support of two additional Rovers. Our General Counsel Nick Provenzo, also serving as South Commissioner and GSM of the 107th Dogwood, brushes aside many thorns along our path. Also our dear friend, long-time Quartermaster, railway rambler and steadfast Lone Scout, Rover Scott Hudson out of Arlington, TX. He considers our each and every need, brings invaluable mentorship to our table, and would give you the shirt off his back. Or mail you one.

Notice will soon be sent by the election committee with a call for nominations to fill Richard’s original Board seat vacancy as of the end of this month, and also to interview at least one – and as many as two – Pathfinders to join the Board as youth members.

Other noteworthy organizational changes include the following new posts:

• Appointment of Provost Commissioner, Ethan Jewett, also serving as West Commissioner and GSM of the 55th Cascadia. Ethan will lead our Regional teams’ administrative and onboarding activities, curate GSM collateral, and generally help steer the ship.
• Appointment of Adventure Commissioner, Doug Taylor, also serving as interim Southwest Commissioner and GSM of the 100th Sun Mountain. Doug will lead a new effort to organize, publicize and realize camping and adventure opportunities for Guides across the nation.
• Appointment of a Racial Equity Initiative Team Lead, Chun-Yin Chong, also serving as Midwest Commissioner and GSM of the 6th Woodrunners. Chun-Yin will work closely with our DEI committee, as well as on parallel efforts to enhance the resonance of Outdoor Service Guides within the BIPOC community.
• Establishment of the Emeritus Chief position, a respected, honorary advisor role bestowed at their own request by any former Chief Guide remaining in good standing with the organization. This is to support continued service and historical continuity for as long as those individuals remain willing and able.

We have also committed to the establishment of the OSG Foundation, a separate nonprofit entity dedicated to fellowship and fundraising to support the activities of Outdoor Service Guides. Details of this entity are still being worked out. If you have a background in grant writing, fundraising, endowments, partnerships or outreach with organizations that share ideals compatible with our own, please reach out to me directly.

Several other initiatives are in the incubation phase, including:

• Implementation of internal tools to facilitate communication between groups and leadership nationally
• Availability of resources, from section leadership guides to ready-made meeting outlines to marketing materials directly from our intranet
• Revitalization of the Lone Scout program
• Expanded effort to bring Outdoor Service Guides to population centers throughout the nation
• Renewed commitment to equity, inclusion and representation of all genders, LGBTQ+ and BIPOC communities through demonstrable action
• Refreshed offerings through the Quartermaster Store

As you can see, we have a wildly ambitious agenda with relatively few volunteer resources wearing several hats. If you want to dip your oar into national waters, now would be an excellent time to raise a hand!

As Rover Doug routinely reminds me, scouting together – being together in the outdoors – is probably the first and most important thing we can be doing with this movement. I believe that we can always improve our outreach, in particular to members of communities who aren’t truly aware that scouting and guiding are options for them. OSG national, our upcoming Foundation, the DEI committee and Chun-Yin with the Racial Equity Initiative specifically are looking eagerly for Rovers with passion and motivation for taking action to bring inclusive scouting into these communities through service, partnership and spreading awareness on the ground.

This is not just rhetoric. We are committed not only to putting our resources into action but also actively seeking funding to support these vital endeavors. We are ready to invest in the right projects and initiatives that align with our mission.

More details about organizational changes and initiatives will be shared by their respective commissioners and project owners over the coming days, and I’m certain that our national training committee will be excited to share the success stories we have and future plans coming out of Advanced Leadership Training.

At this point, Akela may accuse me of using ink as if purchased “by the barrel,” so I will wrap it up with this sentiment: thank you for the opportunity to serve, and also for everything you do in whatever capacity you are able.

Yours in Scouting and Guiding,
Rover Shane Heroux

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