View
241
Download
1
Category
Tags:
Preview:
DESCRIPTION
Record Turnout for Junior Training Camps District Pow Wow in Review Tribute to Marty Heffner TOMAHAWK Page 4 Page 7 Page 9 Page 8 Potomac District Royal Rangers News and Information for Royal Ranger Leaders September-October 2011 July - August 2011
Citation preview
TOMAHAWK July - August 2011
Potomac RodeoPotomac Rodeo District Pow Wow in Review
Page 4
District Staff Welcomes
New Members
Page 7
Record Turnout for
Junior Training Camps
Page 9
Tribute to Marty Heffner
Page 8
TomahawkTomahawk Potomac District Royal Rangers News and Information for Royal Ranger Leaders September-October 2011
Consider “Blended”Consider “Blended” Potomac DistrictPotomac District
First Aid TrainingFirst Aid Training Chartering on UpswingChartering on Upswing
Page 12Page 12 Page 14Page 14
TOMAHAWK July - August 2011 2
POTOMAC DISTRICT ROYAL RANGERS www.potomacrangers.org
tomahawk
Potomac District Commander
Rev. Bobby Basham
Outreach/Publications Coordinator
Newsletter Editor
Gary Wagner
The Tomahawk newsletter is published bi-monthly as a means of communicating news and information to Royal Ranger leaders throughout the Potomac District. Sectional staffs and outposts are invited to submit articles and photographs that feature activi-ties of Royal Ranger ministries on a local level, or to share ideas and successes. Email material to garywagner54@aol.com. Please submit photos as separate jpg image files. The Tomahawk is distributed via email as an electronic publication. Email address correc-tions, or requests to be added to the distri-bution list, should be forwarded to Potomac District executive secretary Denise Raduano at potomacmm@msn.com. Royal Rangers Emblem © 1962 by the national
Royal Rangers Office, The General Council of the
Assemblies of God; Springfield, Mo. 65802. The
Royal Rangers Emblem may not be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any
form or by any means—electronically, mechanically,
photocopies, recording, or otherwise—without prior written permission from the national Royal Rang-
ers Office.
Royal Rangers is a principal ministry of the
Assemblies of God focused on discipling boys
for Jesus Christ. We provide Christ-like char-
acter formation and servant leadership
development for boys and young men in a
highly relational and fun environment. Our
mission is to evangelize, equip and empower
the next generation of Christ-like men and
lifelong servant leaders.
The Potomac District administrative region
of the General Council of the Assemblies of
God takes in Washington, D.C., Maryland,
most of Virginia and northern West Virginia.
Over 100 churches throughout this region
currently provide Royal Ranger ministry to
more than 2,500 boys and young men. We
use many tools to achieve that goal whether
it be camping, merits or interactive skills, all
designed to help develop a boy into a man
while having fun and getting to know God.
We want to develop both men and boys in
mentoring relationships and leadership skills,
and guide them to Jesus Christ. We reach
boys, so they may reach another in their
world.
Potomac District
Royal Rangers on Facebook www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=43063294240
COVER PHOTO: A Ranger hangs on to see if he can go the distance on a feisty mechanical bull ride during the 2011 “Potomac Rodeo” District Pow Wow. Photo by Greg Jones
See it now @ www.potomacrangers.org
FCF Fall Trace
Now’s the time to gear up for Blue Ridge Chapter’s annual Fall Trace for members of the Frontiersman Camping Fellowship. Download your copy of the registration package for the full sched-ule of events and details you won’t want to miss!
GMA Materials
Important information related to the Gold Medal of Achieve-ment is readily available to Ranger leaders who are work-ing with boys in their outpost to reach this important mile-stone. Download the Com-mander’s Instruction Packet and GMA Christian Service Project guidelines to ensure Rangers satisfy all application requirements for the Gold
RRA Application
Application for membership in the Royal Rangers Alumni is available at www.potomac rangers.org. Print and com-plete your application to mail in to the Potomac District office to start your member-ship today. There’s plenty to do in Royal Ranger ministry, and a “seasoned” hand is sometimes just the right touch.
“Have mercy on me, O Lord, “Have mercy on me, O Lord,
for I am in trouble … But as for I am in trouble … But as
for me, I trust in you, O Lord; for me, I trust in you, O Lord;
I say, ’You are my God’.”I say, ’You are my God’.”
Psalm 31: 9, 14
TOMAHAWK July - August 2011 3
By Rev. Bobby Basham District Commander
I hope you were able to make our Potomac Rodeo. It was a terrific Pow Wow with lots to laugh about. I want to thank our Pow Wow Coordinator and Dep-
uty Commander Tracy Groves and his team for a excel-lent job and helping us to laugh and to enjoy living for Jesus! Just for the record, I did out ride the executive team on the bull, but I have to admit – the pig whipped us! Just so you know, I didn’t even know I would be getting up close and personal with this creature. From our special guests, to the events and the evening ser-vices, even though it rained for the first time in many years in the evening, God showed up and touched all of our lives and reminded us, He is coming back. The events of this past week in August with the earthquake and hurricane should remind us, the Earth awaits for the coming King and I hope you do, too. Everyone worked so hard — the executive and dis-trict staff and many sectional staff members, Ranger leaders and even dads —to help make our Pow Wow all that it was. But it is now history with hopefully great memories. I have been asked , ―How do we top off this past year’s event?‖ Well, I have great trust in our Pow Wow team that next year will be just as great and I know they will try to outdo themselves again. Next year we will be celebrating 50 years of Royal Rangers and the world will be focusing in on the 2012 Olympics. So we have thought it through and will be doing our very own Potomac Olympic Games, and I am sure with a ―twist.‖ We will be also working on making this a very memorable Pow Wow with a look back and then with a look ahead of what God is still doing through this great ministry. As you think about it , pray for us, the executive staff, as we plan and prepare for 2012 Pow Wow. On a final note, chartering season is here and please make sure you are making plans for next year’s Campo-rama in Eagle Rock, Missouri.
Rodeo Recollections Supporting Churches,
Businesses & Individuals
Special thanks to our Supporting Churches, Sec-tions, Businesses and Individuals. Your generosity enables further enhancements to this ministry. Any-one wishing to join our group of supporters may request an application from the Potomac District Royal Ranger office, email potomacmm@msn.com.
SILVER MEMBERS
Rev. Bobby Basham Cross Junction, Va.
GOLD MEMBERS
Projects Unlimited - Gary Groves Eldersburg, Md. Tracy Groves Eldersburg, Md.
SUPPORTING CHURCHES
Outpost 2 Trinity Assembly of God Lanham, Md.
Outpost 6 Pasadena Assembly of God Pasadena, Md.
Outpost 9 Calvary Assembly of God Frederick, Md.
Outpost 18 Eastern Assembly of God Baltimore, Md.
Outpost 27 Glad Tidings Church Norfolk, Va.
Outpost 46 Bethel Assembly of God Savage,Md.
Outpost 47 Trinity Assembly of God Lutherville,Md.
Outpost 49 Centerpointe Church at Fair Oaks Fairfax, Va.
Outpost 60 Manassas Assembly of God Bristow, Va.
Outpost 64 First Assembly of God Elkton, Md.
Outpost 81 Trinity Assembly of God Fairmont, W.Va.
Outpost 82 Hayfield Assembly of God Gore, Va.
Outpost 89 Bethel Assembly of God Martinsburg, W.Va.
Outpost 100 Hancock Assembly of God Hancock, Md.
Outpost 124 Julilee Christian Center Fairfax, Va.
Outpost 152 Lighthouse Worship Center Hayes, Va.
Outpost 186 Hazel River Assembly of God Rixeyville, Va.
Outpost 215 River of Life Assembly of God Spotsylvania, Va.
Outpost 232 First Assembly of God Harrisonburg, Va.
Outpost 240 Living Word Community Church Mechanicsville, Md.
Outpost 277 Ocean City Worship Center Berlin, Md.
INDIVIDUAL DONORS
Don & Sara Frey Falling Waters, W.Va. Homer Kitchen Gerrardstown, W.Va. Gary & Faye Groves Eldersburg, Md. Phil Georg Brunswick, Md. Rev. McGraw
DIRECTOR’S MEMO
TOMAHAWK July - August 2011 4
Potomac Rodeo 2011 District Pow Wow in Review
Photos by Greg Jones & Gary Wagner
TOMAHAWK July - August 2011 5
Potomac Rodeo 2011 District Pow Wow in Review
TOMAHAWK July - August 2011 6
Potomac Rodeo 2011 District Pow Wow in Review
TOMAHAWK July - August 2011 6
TOMAHAWK July - August 2011 7
Potomac District Executive Staff welcomes new members
T he Potomac District execu-tive staff approved three new members earlier this
year with the goal of providing leadership training and develop-ment opportunities at the district level for young men serving with Royal Rangers. Christopher Basham of Stevens City, Va., was welcomed to a new position as assistant productions coordinator. Chris currently at-tends Hayfield Assembly of God and serves as the Discov-ery Ranger group com-mander with Outpost 82. First involved with Rangers as a Buckaroo, Chris graduated from high school in 2009 and is currently enrolled at Lord Fairfax Community Col-lege. When he’s not on the job at Sheetz, Chris’ hob-bies and interests include computers and ―the occa-sional video game.‖ He also serves in his church as media director and youth leader. As a junior aide de camp, his goal is ―to assist the dis-trict staff in any capacity that I can,‖ says Chris. Isaac Brannon from Chesapeake Beach, Md., was added to the exec-utive staff as a new junior aide de camp. Isaac has been active in Royal Rangers for nine years, starting as a Straight Arrow and currently in his second year as an Expedition Ranger. He and his family attend Full Gospel Assembly of God in Prince Frederick, Md. As a member of Royal Ranger Outpost 74, Isaac currently serves as the outpost’s senior guide, and just recently started working as a junior com-mander to assist the Adventure Rangers in their skill merits.
Isaac is active in other minis-tries at his church, where he plays keyboard for his church’s worship team each Sunday. He’s also in-volved in the church youth group and serves with the youth worship band. As a 10th grade high school stu-dent, Isaac is currently ranked eighth out of 433 students in his class for academics at Hunting-town School. He is active in the school’s choral program. In addi-
tion to performing with his high school choir, Isaac has also per-formed in three Maryland All-State choirs, as well as several oth-er tri-county and Calvert County honor choirs. Among his other special inter-ests and hobbies, Isaac includes camping, biking, kayaking, back-packing and snowboarding. ―As a junior aide de camp, I hope to serve the Potomac District in any way possible by providing support and assistance through whatever tasks I receive,‖ com-ments Isaac. ―I hope to set a good example for my fellow Rangers to follow, and to inspire other boys to pursue their GMAs and strive to be lead-ers in their churches, outposts, schools and communities,‖ he adds.
An appointment as an addition-al junior aide de camp was ap-proved for Dale Eger, a member of Outpost 6 at Pasadena Assembly of God in Pasadena, Md. A Royal Ranger since age five, Dale is currently an Expedition Ranger and occasionally assists in leadership with his outpost’s Ad-venture Ranger group. A resident of Severn, Md., Dale graduated from high school in March and is currently employed
with Mike Cocolin and Son Plumb-ing as a Maryland state plumbing apprentice. Apart from Royal Rangers, Dale enjoys hunting and just shooting his bow for fun. But his passion, he says, is for missions. ―I love and have a heart for mis-sions. I have been on six missions trips and loved everyone and will continue going on them as long as I am capable to do so,‖ explains Dale. As a junior aide de camp, Dale said his purpose will be ―to give an insight to staff from a boy who has grown up in Royal Rangers.‖ His intent, he adds, is to fulfill his oath as a Gold Medalist, ―to give back more to Royal Rangers than all it has ever given to me.‖
Chris Basham Isaac Brannon Dale Eger
TOMAHAWK July - August 2011 8
E ric Pixler, 37, passed away unexpectedly on June 10.
Eric was serving as the Ranger Kids leader for Outpost 10 at Calvary Assembly of God in Hampton, Va. He is survived by his wife of 11 years, April, and their four children.
Eric Pixler
IN MEMORY
Remembering Marty Heffner
The miles travelled, the mountain top campsites and the waterways provided just the place where we cultivated a relationship and friendship built on trust, faith and mutual appreciation for each other. Countless are the stories about our adventures or in some cases misadventures. The blood, sweat, tears and blisters that we experi-enced were but small prices to pay for such a rich and rewarding friendship that we shared. Despite Marty, well, just being Marty, he was an intelligent, artic-ulate man with a technical mind that could dissect a problem or present a point of view that could stop you in your tracks. Marty was brutally honest and strived to live his life with integrity. In my opin-ion, he succeeded. He was a mentor to many young men and boys that needed guidance. He didn’t mind spend-ing the time; he was a patient man. He would take old and broken down computers, re-build them often at his own expense, and do-nate them to those in need.
Marty was insightful and, yes, told really corny jokes. Those will be missed. Few knew this, but he could throw a mean horseshoe. He was a fun-loving man who loved to play and carry on with the kids he mentored. Marty above all else was a true friend. My father often told me that a man was truly blessed if he had just a few friends that you could really count on when all oth-ers faded. Marty was just that sort. Above all, he demonstrated faith and loved working to help those that needed a boost. Often on back-packing trips, he stayed behind to help the slower kids needing en-couragement.
By Rev. Dan Harlan
B orn in Baltimore March 31, 1954, Marty Heffner went to be with the Lord on June 25
suddenly and unexpectedly after swimming with some friends. The unexpected loss of a loved one or friend is news that is diffi-cult to understand. We struggle to make sense of things that are be-yond our thought or comprehen-sion. We ask the unknowable such as why or how or for what reason. In truth, only God knows, and in that we must be content although sorrowful. Our loss leaves a vacuum that will in most ways never be filled. How do you in just a few short moments sum up a person’s life and their impact? Marty was many things to different people, but to me he was a life-long friend that few ever have, and one that cannot be replaced. I first met Marty in 1980 some 31 years ago working with Royal Rangers when we realized our common interest in the outdoors.
A few moments during the Saturday evening service at Potomac District Pow Wow were set aside for reflection on the recent loss of one of the district’s most devoted and accomplished Ranger leaders. The following is excerpted from the tribute shared by former district commander Rev. Dan Harlan.
Born in New London, Conn., Eric had been a Hampton resident for several years. Eric served in the U.S. Navy from 1992 to 2007. He currently was working for Phelps Landscaping Service and Ber-ceuse Funeral and Cremation Traditions, both in Hampton. The family wishes expressions of sympathy to please take the form of contributions to the Eric C. Pixler Memorial Fund, c/o Calvary Assembly of God, 1380 N. Mallory St., Hampton, Va. 23663.
SEE MEMORY ON PAGE 11
TOMAHAWK July - August 2011 9
Junior Training Camps Draw Record Turnout By Bob Blessing Junior Training Coordinator
A nother successful Junior Leadership Training Academy (JLTA) was held
at Camp Saffran August 7-10. This year the Potomac District boys came out strong with a record at-tendance of 54 boys in the Junior Leadership Training Camp (JL), 17 in Junior Survival Camp (JSC) and 11 in the Advanced Junior Leader-ship Training Camp (AJ). At told, 83 boys in the Potomac District worked in the Ranger Way learning new skills and taking an-other step towards earning their saber. We experienced hot weather with an occasional downburst of rain. Everyone weathered the storms quite well. During the council fire services, God moved in a mighty way with one baptism in the Holy Spirit, three healings, 16 rededications and three who strengthened their walk with God. Competition between the pa-trols was a fun thing to watch. JL’s
Mighty Mice, Bucking Broncos, Powerful Pythons, Blazing Eagles, Mighty Tweety Birds and Raging Tigers, JSC’s Vicious Vipers and Faithful Falcons, and the AJ Majes-tic Mastodons and Leaping Leop-ards — each patrol exhibited their own patrol song and yell much to the enjoyment of the 19 staff mem-bers and the seven junior staff members. Staff members included Bob Blessing, Homer Kitchen, Rev. Bobby Basham, Bill Chestnut, Craig Powis, Tyler Mazer, Paul Eley, Paul Douglas, Warren Bills, Wade Thorp, Rick Powers, Mark Brannon, Lynn Whitely, Chris Ba-sham, Stuart Fluke, Randy Finke, Brian Isom, Marvin Boswell and Jim Harris. Junior staff members were Dale Eger, Fitz Morse, Matt Bibby, Daniel Garner, Trevor Britt, An-drew Fluke and Ben Fluke. Congratulations and well done to all the Rangers who attended this year’s JLTA. Graduates are listed below by the camps they attended.
ADVANCED JUNIOR
LEADERSHIP TRAINING
CAMP
Seyi Olusina David Boswell Jacob Giesing Marcus Ramsey Nicholas Miller Adrian Bills Isaac Brannon Robert Hertless Daniel Coleman William Staub Eddie Brown
JUNIOR SURVIVAL
CAMP
Joe Johnson Nicholas Powers Ian Johnson Glenn Hannold Jessie Diamond Steve Maobekeub Camden Schulz Paromi Karlo Caleb Hamilton Dominic Powers Thomas Horton Caleb Brannon Keiron Fontaine Steven Louissaint Cedric Schulz Austin Pratscher Kitawan Karlo
JUNIOR LEADERSHIP
TRAINING CAMP
John Aldrich Alex Hertless Kyler Kerns Cameron Haddock Martin Simpkins Samuel Bryant John Simpkins Andrew Lewis Ronald Forman Chisholm Willhelm Luke McQuay Micah Nissly Matthew Finke Eric Kennedy Justin Welch David Gears Peter Stauffer Nathan Sanchez Coale Davidson Trevor Hayes Peter Kim Bryan Sibell John Henderson Victor Dixon Paul Eley Jr Aaron Cucina Isaiah Padgett Dillon Aldrich Jon Chestnut Dalton Kerns Hunter Lidke Jacob Rush John Chevere David Hannold Chase Isom Joshua Schucki Louis Tennent Joshua Simpson Ryan Whitely Justin Wilson Caleb Richters Richie Allgood Ben Henderson Jacob Disque Robert Kimball Aaron Bohot Jason Eastabrook Taylor Bradshaw Danny Sibell Benjamin Hudson Trae Miller Jonathan Cross Daniel Jarrell Devin Cook
District Cmdr. Bobby Basham instructs JTC students in rope craft during this summer’s training camp.
TOMAHAWK July - August 2011 10
that has made us such a desirable group of which to be a part. Let's get their time in the Blue Ridge Chapter started off right. Not only should we make every effort to provide them with an ex-
By Bill “Red Paddle” Chestnut
I am happy to say we had an-other successful ―Great Adven-ture‖ this year at the start of
Pow Wow. We had 28 new green-horns complete their Great Adven-ture. One of the things that makes this group special is that 25 of the 28 are young bucks. This is another example of the Blue Ridge Chapter at its best. Thanks to everyone for all their hard work. It’s the excellence and enthusiasm of the membership
Blue Ridge Chapter’s Newest Members
W elcome to the newest members of the Blue Ridge Chapter. Those named here successfully
completed their Great Adventure at the 2011 Potomac District Pow Wow.
Kolin Johnson Nathan Sanchez Mathew Finke Danny Sibell Bryan Sibell
Micah Nissley Elijah Enriquez
Joel Metzger Daniel Jarrell
Jonathan Cross Jack Wood
Stephen Mckee Daniel Coleman
Bill Bassett Jr.
Ryan Gardiner Charlie Hinkle
Cameron Haddock Trae Miller Micah Kidd
Samuel Bryant Greg Barr
Joseph Johnson Bill Bassett Sr. Kenny Hinkle Jarod Mazer Ethan Lucky
Nicholas Miller Eric Kennedy
The Powder Keg NEWS FOR & ABOUT FRONTIERSMEN CAMPING FELLOWSHIP MEMBERS
President’s Greeting
National FCF President to Speak at Territorial Rendezvous
citing and memorable Fall Trace let's try to give every one of the new members a chance to experi-ence a Territorial Rendezvous. The Rendezvous will be held Oct. 7 – 9 at Honey Grove, Pa. With fellow FCFers from all over the northeast, it will be a good time of fellowship, challenging competitions, and an opportunity to hear what God has laid on the heart of our National President, Paul ―Grey Owl‖ Walters. God Bless and have a safe trip to the Trace. See you there!
Rangers listen intently during one of the Great Adventure instruction sessions for new FCF greenhorns during District Pow Wow.
Slow roasting a pig over an open fire in Pow Wow’s FCF village.
TOMAHAWK July - August 2011 11
Bethel Assembly of God in Franklin,
Va.
The Detention Center arranged
for everyone in the facility to take part
— 40 boys, nine girls and 14 security
counselors gathered with the men in
the gym for the event.
The men called the boys by name
to their side, and the boys and “dads”
selected one of the nine girls, who are
also detainees, to join them. In a few
minutes, everyone was in a “family.”
Lunch was served, and the boys
and men, along with the girls, sat un-
der a large picnic shelter, out of the
hot sun. A story about a street
evangelist laying down his life
to bring the gospel to someone
bound up in rebellion and sin
was shared, and the inmates
were encouraged to turn to
their “dads” for prayer. Thir-
teen boys and four girls re-
ceived Jesus Christ as Savior.
Most of these kids had
never attended a cookout be-
fore: many of these men had
never led anyone to Christ
before. Bibles and devotional
materials were distributed, and many
hugs were shared.
They played games in the exercise
yard, had a tug-of-war that seemed to
go on forever, and laughed till they
were exhausted. A common bond in
the Savior was found that day, and
few will forget it. Many of the men
said they would like to return to minis-
ter here again.
The gospel was proclaimed, souls
were added to the Kingdom of God,
and believers were encouraged in their
faith. All in all, it was a very success-
ful event.
Royal Rangers Host Father-Son Cookout at Norfolk Juvenile Detention Center
Pictured at the outdoor sign for the Norfolk Juvenile Detention Center are (l. to r.) the author, Tidewater South Sectional Cmdr. Roger Riendeau and Cmdr. Frank Timmons.
By Cmdr. Glenn Sorrentino Outpost 158
O n Saturday, July 2, 22 men
met in the foyer at Norfolk
Juvenile Detention Center.
Their main objective: to invade the
lives of the boys detained there.
The plan was to have each man
“adopt” two of the boys and spend the
day with them, playing games, eating
hot dogs and hamburgers, and just
enjoying each other’s company.
Somewhere along the way, the gospel
would be shared.
The men prayed together, drew
the names of the boys out of a plastic
jar, and the new “dads’” were congrat-
ulated. All the men were from church-
es across the Tidewater South Section,
many of them Royal Ranger Com-
manders, but some just dads who
wanted to help out.
The boys were all from Norfolk,
and had all been arrested on felony
charges. Most of them do not have
dads. These two groups did not have
much in common.
This event was long in the mak-
ing, being coordinated in a joint effort
between Outpost 158 leaders at Har-
vest Assembly of God in Chesapeake,
Va., and Outpost 381 leaders from The men who participated in the father-son cookout take time for a group photo in the detention center’s foyer.
TOMAHAWK July - August 2011 12
The only somewhat difficult part in all this is the initial selection of an on-line and test site provider. Here is what I mean. Prior to reg-istering, paying for, and taking any on-line material, you must make sure that the provider has a skills testing facility near you and that they have testing hours when you can ever get there to complete the course. Most of the training pro-viders have a search system to show you where skills testing loca-tions are in your area. The other consideration you need to make is based on the certi-fication of the provider of the training. Remember that the train-ing must be offered by a ―certified training agency.‖ Now, that is not to say that ―Jim Bob's School of Taxidermy and Salsa Lessons‖ would not qualify as a certified training agency. (Apologies to all the Jim Bob’s out there, along with all the taxider-mists and salsa professionals. I love the chunky kind.) When I evaluate an on-line provider to see if it is somewhere I would want to learn my chest compression techniques from, I look on their website for infor-mation about their certifications. They usually say, in very bold print on the main page, or on an ―information‖ or ―FAQ‖ page, the standards they teach, such as
American Heart Associa-tion (AHA) Guidelines,
OSHA, Green Cross, or ECC/
ILCA. Some may even be associated with
American Red Cross (ARC). AHA is the most common set of
guidelines the providers will refer-ence. To begin your search for on-line providers, you might use some or all of these search terms: ―online First Aid‖, ―online CPR,‖ ―blended CPR,‖ ―online CPR skills,‖ and probably others I have missed. While there are no hard criteria that are absolute, these are a few things to look for. Here are examples of some sites that offer skills testing in the Potomac District that state their supporting teaching standards:
www.onlineaha.org This site describes their standards and op-tions starting on the main page. They offer skills and non-skills based certifications. Be sure to take a course with skills testing involved in order for it to satisfy Royal Ranger requirements.
http://www.profirstaid.com/en/ This group offers more advanced training in addition to the First Aid/CPR levels we require.
SEE FIRST AID ON PAGE 12
On-Line First Aid/CPR Courses Offer Economical Alternative But Use Caution to Ensure Ranger Training Guidelines are Satisfied
By Phil Georg >>> District Training Coordinator TRAINING CORNER TRAINING CORNER
W e are not going to stop or lessen our efforts to be a safe and prepared
group of leaders for our very active groups of young men. The First Aid and CPR advancement re-quirements for both boys and lead-ers are not going away; neither should we ever seek that they should. Nevertheless, we face a chal-lenge in accommodating the dra-matic increase in the cost of the American Red Cross (ARC) First Aid/CPR/AED course, which is now priced between $90 to $110, depending on location. It is in our best interests to see if there are any more economical means to this end. The best option that we can find for getting First Aid certifica-tion is to take a hybrid, or ―blended‖ style on-line course. This involves being able to get on-line enough to take the coursework at home, church, internet cafe or library type facility. Then, each leader or Ranger taking the course must physically go to a testing cen-ter associated with the training group you took the on-line testing through. Most on-line courses will not provide proof of course com-pletion until you accomplish both
the online testing and the physical
testing compo-nents.
TOMAHAWK July - August 2011 13
http://www.safetyserve.com/
firstaid/ This group also offers multiple Frist Aid/CPR courses.
An example of a BAD site is www.firstaidweb.com. Don't be fooled: this website’s FAQ page and main page do contain descrip-tions of standards that they meet, but no skills testing is required to get certification. This does not satisfy Royal Ranger requirements. Please use this information as a guide, and do your own due-diligence before you involve your outpost, boys or leaders. I recom-mend having you or some of your leaders take a course you think might be a good one prior to work-ing with the boys to go through it.
The course must include demon-stration and evaluation of the skills learned in a practical exercise in front of a live instructor.
Q: Must the course be taken from
the American Red Cross, or can I take it from some other group?
A: The course taken must be
through a ―certified training agen-cy.‖ We do not limit certification to only one national recognized organization. See the Gold First Aid-CPR merit for examples of accepted organizations. Red Cross is a well-respected organization but not always available in all parts of the country, so other na-tionally recognized training organ-izations will be accepted. The na-tional Royal Rangers website speci-fies: The First Aid/CPR course may be completed through any nationally recognized qualified organization such as the American
S ome of the following infor-mation was included in a previous edition of the Toma-
hawk, but we expand our coverage of the topic here. Recently, Nation-al Training Coordinator Steve Schultz answered some specific questions regarding Royal Ranger requirements for First Aid training.
Q: Does the First Aid requirement
need to be taken as the "Adult" version of the course?
A: The Infant, Child, or Adult
version of the course will satisfy the First Aid requirement.
Q: May the course be taken on the
Internet, or does it need to be at-tended in person?
A: The course may be taken on-
line as long as the coursework re-quires an in-person skills test to get credit for the course. The national Royal Rangers website specifies:
FIRST AID
TRAINING CORNER
CONTINUED FROM PAGE 6
T here will be one more district-provided Ranger
Essentials course offered this year on Oct. 1, 2011. The location will be Ha-zel River Assembly of God in Culpeper, Va. There will be a pre-registration form coming through your sectional training coordinators, so watch for it in the next few weeks. Ranger Essentials is a re-quired course under the new Rangers Ministry Academy (RMA) training system. The RMA has been established to
First Aid FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
Red Cross, the Green Cross, or the American Heart Association.
Q: Does the training coursework
need to contain the AED portion of the curricula?
A: Not required but would be a
nice addition to any certification.
Q: Would the AED portion of the
training require the attendance at a physical skill test, or would an on-line skills testing and certification from the training vendor qualify?
A: It would require a skill test in
my opinion to receive certification in AEDs.
follow the former LMA training track. For anyone to attain any level of train-ing within the RMA sys-tem, they must have taken Ranger Essentials.
This and other training events will be offered by both
sectional and district staff. You may inquire to either source about training that may be com-ing up soon. All Ranger leaders – new or veteran – are encouraged to make every effort to take this foundational leadership training as soon as possible.
Ranger Essentials Course Offered October 1st in Culpeper
TOMAHAWK July - August 2011 14
Potomac District
Tops in Chartering
After five years of declining numbers of Royal Rangers and leaders chartered annually in Poto-mac District, we saw that troubling trend reverse for the last charter year for 2010-2011. In the latest chartering year, Potomac District saw an increase of 116 people chartered above the previous year’s number. As report-ed at National Council, Potomac District also had the strongest chartering report of any district in the nation. As of June 29 this year, there were a total of 2,670 Rangers and leaders chartered in the district. A breakdown of that number by age group and types of churches is provided below. Of course, we’re now in a new chartering season for 2011-2012, and have until Oct. 30 to update all current charters. Please don’t de-lay; let’s work diligently to pro-vide a responsible accounting of our ministry. In so doing, we sup-port not only the National Royal Ranger ministry, but our own Po-tomac District Royal Ranger minis-try as well.
Royal Ranger Alumni Work and Fellowship at District Pow Wow
This summer’s Potomac District Pow Wow was supported by 18 members of the Royal Ranger Alumni (RRA) who were in attendance. Through their staffing and operation of the Pow Wow concession stand, and sales of hot dogs, sodas, candy and the ever-popular snow cones, RRA members raised a significant amount of funds for the district. But, all work and no play …? During Pow Wow, RRA members briefly excused themselves to enjoy their second annual dinner reunion, pictured above, which was enjoyed by 14 alumni. RRA in Potomac District continues to grow. Most recently, the group welcomed Richard W. Baker to their ranks. The RRA program was inaugurated to provide a method by which Ranger leaders (age 55 plus) may continue to serve as a vital part of the Ranger ministry. Those interested in joining the ranks of the RRA can contact their sectional commander or sectional RRA coordinator for an application.
DISTRICT NEWS & INFORMATION DISTRICT NEWS & INFORMATION
Ranger Kids 596
Discovery Rangers 726
Adventure Rangers 485
Expedition Rangers 214
Total of boys 2,020
Commanders 650
Grand Total 2,670
110 Outposts Chartered
76 Assembly of God Churches
12 PCCNA (Church of God)
22 Independent Churches
Chartering is a unique and beneficial
program that allows churches to re-
ceive discounts and exclusive re-
sources when they register (charter)
their Royal Rangers program with the
national office. Chartering provides
important information to the national
Royal Rangers ministry that enables
them to monitor and shape the success
and well-being of Royal Rangers and
supports the ongoing development and
improvement of the ministry. For addi-
tional information on chartering, down-
load the Royal Rangers Chartering
Brochure or visit our chartering FAQ
page at www.royalrangers.ag.org.
2010-2011 CHARTER REPORT FOR POTOMAC DISTRICT
TOMAHAWK July - August 2011 15
DISTRICT NEWS & INFORMATION DISTRICT NEWS & INFORMATION
H ave you lost anything at Po-tomac District Pow Wow or
any of the JLTA training camps? Deputy District Cmdr. Homer Kitchen faithfully gathers up all the gear typically left behind from each Pow Wow weekend—hats, T-shirts, camp chairs, towels, sun-glasses, you name it. Broken or damaged items are disposed of, and no, he doesn’t keep socks, un-derwear or soap either. He has to rent a trailer each year to haul the stuff off. OK, may-
be that’s exaggerating the point a bit, as the Geico™ gecko is fond of saying, but hopefully you appreci-ate the message. Anyway, Cmdr. Kitchen keeps lost and found items for about three years. After that, he tries to give the goods away to less fortu-nate boys and churches. If you’ve realized since you re-turned home from Pow Wow that you’re missing something of value, give Cmdr. Kitchen a call at 304-229-5793 before he goes donating.
Leave Something Behind?
During Marty Heffner’s 30-plus year Royal Ranger career, he:
Earned his Leaders Medal of Achieve-
ment
Earned a considerable number com-
mander and staff awards
Became a certified training instructor
Was a First Aid and CPR instructor
Instructed at all JLTA’s since 1997
Became an NTC instructor
Attended LTC, NTC, ANTC, NCE, NTT,
BSTC, RKTC
Served on the Eastern Section staff,
Potomac District staff, JLTA staff, NTC staff, FCF staff
Was a wilderness member of the FCF
Blue Ridge Chapter
Was a multiple FCF Free Trapper demon-
strating his servants heart
Joined the Royal Ranger Alumni just prior
to his death
Served Outposts 118, 50 and 18 – all
age groups
Accumulated a patch collection that rivals
any
He was a gentle man, giving so that others could have. He was satisfied with doing rather than being seen. He strived to be the best he could at all he did. Hang-ups? He had a few. But he was no different in that respect that the rest of us. Those pale in compari-son to the depth of his accomplish-ments and the open heart that he demonstrated. Above all, simply, he cared, he gave and he served. Abraham Lincoln said that ―and in the end it’s not the years in your life that count, it’s the life in your years.‖ Marty can be defined as a man that truly lived life to the fullest and finished well. Despite Marty’s impressive and extensive Ranger resume, his pas-sion and real purpose was to see the lost won to Christ. His work with the homeless, in the jails, on the streets, short-term mission trips and in the church expressed his compassion and heart for the lost.
Marty was a bright and talented man, but you would never accuse him of being graceful or nimble. Marty had his own unique style, but you would never accuse him of being a snappy dresser. Simply, Marty was Marty, and that is what drew you to him. Marty was a single man with no children, but he was most happy in the presence of children. Personal-ly, he was the best uncle my kids never had. For the past 31 years, Marty has been a fixture at our home around the holidays. He has been part our lives during the best and worst of times. His place at the table will be missed. The camp fires will not be as bright, the trails will be longer and harder, and the canoe trips will not be as lively without him. Marty was taken from us far too early. His legacy is not one of wealth, riches or fame as we often count these things. Rather, he has defined what devotion, friendship and faith really mean. We fill the holes, we cover the bases and move on in life but I can-not forget, I will not forget. Marty my friend, I miss you.
CONTINUED FROM PAGE 10
MEMORY
TOMAHAWK July - August 2011 16
Potomac District Royal Rangers on Facebook http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=43063294240
EXECUTIVE STAFF
Rev. Bobby Basham - District Commander 166 Serviceberry Ct. Stephens City, VA 22655
bbasham@potomacag.org (540) 869-8432
Homer Kitchen - Deputy District Commander 8614 Apple Harvest Dr. Gerrardstown, WV 25420
Kitchenhl@msn.com (304) 229-5793
Tracy Groves - Deputy District Commander/
Productions Coordinator 2340 Liberty Rd. Eldersburg, MD 21784
tgghunter@verizon.net (410) 781-4906
Bill Chestnut - FCF Chapter President 346 Reservoir Rd. Perryville, MD 21903
redpaddle@yahoo.com (410) 378-3735
Phil Georg - Training Coordinator 111 East H St. Brunswick, MD 21716
philgeorg@hotmail.com (301) 834-9871
Bob Blessing - Junior Training Coordinator 302 Stiemly Ave. Glen Burnie, MD 21060
jrblessing@gmail.com (410) 760-9330
Rick Vogt - Productions Coordinator 918 Firefly Run Pasadena, MD 21122
richard.vogt@jhuapl.edu (410) 439-3507
Chris Basham - Assistant Productions Coordinator 166 Serviceberry Ct. Stephens City, VA 22655
(540) 869-8432
Cliff Jewell - Public Relations/GMA Coordinator P. O. Box 3404 Manassas, VA 20109
jewellsrthe1@aol.com (703) 475-4422
Gary Wagner - Publications/Outreach Coordinator 3905 Swanson Ct. Fredericksburg, VA 22408
garywagner54@aol.com (540) 898-7415
Mike Cocolin - Missions Coordinator 8413 Elvaton Rd. Millersville, MD 21108
mjcocolin@msn.com (410) 315-8433
Gary Groves - RR Alumni President 2326 Liberty Rd. Eldersburg, MD 21784
blaznbear@peoplepc.com (410) 781-0236
Linda Cocolin - Health Officer 8413 Elvaton Rd. Millersville, MD 21108
lkcocolin@msn.com (410) 315-8433
Seth Van de Ven - Special Aide de Camp 3202 Amberley Lane Fairfax, VA 22031
seth.vandeven@gmail.com (703) 560-5886
Tyler Mazer - Junior Training Aide de Camp 99 Shenandoah View Harpers Ferry, WV 25425
camarocougar@comcast.net (304) 876-1875
Jordan Pfeiffer - Junior Aide de Camp 10100 Grape Myrtle Ct. Manassas, VA 20100
pdpfeiffer@comcast.net (703) 330-1616
Isaac Brannon - Junior Aide de Camp P. O. Box 390 Owings, MD 20736
ltbrannon@verizon.net (410) 257-9446
Dale Eger - Junior Aide de Camp 8213 WB & A Rd. Sever, MD 21144
Dale.eger77@gmail.com (410) 551-3454
Don Frey - Staff Advisor 8 Jericho St. Falling Waters, WV 25419
DFrey32@juno.com (304) 274-2268
Sam Linn - Staff Advisor 1687 McCoys Ford Rd. Front Royal, VA 22630
solinn@shentel.net (540) 635-7497
POTOMAC DISTRICT ROYAL RANGERS
STAFF
SECTIONAL COMMANDERS
Mark Brannon - Capital Virginia Section P. O. Box 390 Owings, MD 20736
capseccmdr@verizon.net (410) 257-9446
Mark Brannon - Capital Maryland Section P. O. Box 390 Owings, MD 20736
capseccmdr@verizon.net (410) 257-9446
Ken O’Maley - Central Section 11042 Settletown Place Rixeyville, VA 22737
kenomaley@aol.com (540) 937-6139
Marvin Boswell - Southern Section P. O. Box 35 Rockville, VA 23146
mwboswell@gmail.com (804) 749-8397
Phil Vieth - Tidewater North Section 200 Treis Trail Yorktown, VA 23693
philvieth@verizon.net (757) 766-8351
Roger Riendeau - Tidewater South Section 7719 Doris Dr. Norfolk, VA 23505
roger.riendeau@cox.net (757) 440-8432
Ken Black - Eastern Section P. O. Box 58 Manchester, MD 21102
Talloak218@aol.com (410) 239-2645
Robert “Buzz” Gregory - Eastern Shore Section 9260 Hickory Mill Rd. Salisbury, MD 21801
Buzzgregory@comcast.net (410) 742-0415
Jerry Sinden - Northeast Section 1805 Milstream Dr. Frederick, MD 21702
Sindenfred@aol.com (301) 620-0034
Northwest Section Jerry Sinden (Acting)
Andy McKenzie - North Central Section 16415 Brice Hollow Rd. SE Cumberland, MD 21502
andym9454@gmail.com (301) 759-9454
Western Section Andy McKenzie (Acting)
Recommended