Meet the Team: Felicia Vaytsman

For our second #meettheteammonday on Mayflower Council’s social media, we sat down with Felicia Vaytsman, Mayflower Council Membership & Community Partnerships Executive.

Felicia, what is your favorite aspect of Scouting?

“My absolute favorite thing? That it’s a FAMILY program! That we’re all in this together, as a family! My son and daughter both enjoy the program, the outings, and the events that Mayflower offers our community. I love hiking with them and doing things we may not otherwise do. When we go camping, it’s such a fun experience, and it fills my kid’s ‘nature bucket,’ which, for them, is a deep bucket and really, truly, brings such good energy to their souls. When they get to walk the field at Fenway or Polar Park donning their uniform with ‘Den Leader Mom,’ it gives them such pride to do those special things and wear their important uniform.”

What brought you to the Mayflower Council?

“In very early 2024, my kids were interested in the WooSox sleepover. As I was on the Mayflower Council website, I saw there was a job opening for a ‘Membership Executive.’ The role sounded a bit intimidating, especially since I had been a stay-at-home mom for five years by that point. However, so much of it sounded appealing and something I wanted to try! I was also very pleased by our Scouting experience thus far and found myself passionate about spreading the word about Scouting.”

What is your Scouting background?

“Scouting first piqued my interest when my son entered Kindergarten in the fall of 2021. We were at his school’s open house, and the Cub Scouts had an info table. I was talking with one of the moms who was a Den Leader. She explained the program, and it sounded really interesting and something I thought he and I would love. However, the Pandemic was still going on, and… I opted to wait a year.

“Then, a huge change in our lives came about. My husband’s job required him to relocate to Massachusetts from the Chicago area. We got here in June 2022, just as summer was beginning, and the first thing I did was research ‘Cub Scouts near me,’ and there, our journey began.

“I inquired about the program and also said, ‘I also might be interested in being a Den Leader.’ Which, if those words are ever uttered… It’s over, you’re hooked.

“So, I became his Tiger Den leader and loved it. My son was so excited about what they were learning and really proud that his mom was his Den Leader. That following year, my daughter was entering Kindergarten, and I asked my son if he would mind if I switched and led her Lion Den to encourage her Scouting career—he, of course, obliged.

“So now both of my children are in Scouting; I’ve completed Tiger Den and Lion Den leader, became the New Member Coordinator this year, and am the Lion Den leader for the 2nd time to support the newest Cub Scouts in our Pack.”

Felicias Personal Favorites

Favorite

color pink

drink Polar seltzer

treat DQ ice cream

hobby walking the neighborhood admiring the old homes and architecture

food all of it?

animal cat

place the beach

music 90s rap & alternative

Council Duties

  • Felicia helps foster relationships in communities to form new units where they are needed;
  • Works with charted organizations to ensure strong relationships;
  • Attends community events to promote Scouting across the board.

Feel free to contact Felicia if she can help foster your Scouting experience.




Meet the Team: Ryan Piazza – Camping Director

For our initial #meettheteammonday on Mayflower Council’s social media, we sat down with Ryan Piazza, the Mayflower Council Camping Director!

Ryan, what is your favorite aspect of Scouting?

“Scouting is an experience everyone can participate in, where you become a better version of yourself. As we encounter more digital and consumer products in this modern-day era, Scouting can become an escape to achieving advancements that can greatly benefit the mind, soul, and body. At Mayflower Council, we consistently see individuals who achieve the rank of Eagle propel themselves forward toward future success—both personally and professionally.”

What brought you to the Mayflower Council?

“My path before joining Mayflower was based on a career focused on an industry that took me away from my roots. My wife [fellow Mayflower Council employee Jen] redirected me back to Scouting, a world where I can enjoy working for an organization that allows focus on personal and professional development.”

What is your Scouting background?

“I joined Cub Scouts as a kid, and today, I recall my favorite program being the Pinewood Derby, as my dad and I loved building and racing cars. I later attended sports camps and went to school for outdoor education. As a kid who struggled with traditional learning, I found Scouting essential in obtaining life skills through experiential education outside the classroom.”

Ryan’s Personal Favorites

color purple

drink Coca~cola

treat Snickers

hobby disc golf

sport soccer

food Shake Shack

animal cat

place home

music Christian Music

Piazza Fun Facts

Ryan takes a cold plunge every day…Coaches son’s soccer team…took an ultimate ski adventure in Japan.




Mayflower Council Honors 2023 Eagle Scouts

The Eagle Scout Recognition Dinner highlighted the achievements of 148 dedicated Scouts who earned the highest Scouting rank in 2023

Wrentham, Massachusetts, June 26, 2024 — The Mayflower Council of Scouting America (nee Boy Scouts of America) proudly recognizes the Eagle Scout Class of 2023. This past year’s honorees were celebrated at the annual Eagle Dinner on June 10, 2024, at Lake Pearl in Wrentham, Mass. The event highlighted the achievements of 148 dedicated Scouts who earned the highest Scouting rank in 2023.

The evening featured inspiring speeches, including those by notable Eagle Scouts of the past and distinguished guests. Robert Brady, Eagle Scout Class of 1989, delivered the keynote address, sharing his journey and the impact of Scouting on his professional and personal life. Four additional Eagle Scout alumni received Outstanding Eagle Awards from the National Eagle Scout Association (NESA).

The Mayflower Council Eagle Scout Class of 2023 includes Scouts from the following communities: Abington, Braintree, Canton, Bridgewater (East Bridgewater, West Bridgewater), Cohasset, Duxbury, Easton (North Easton), Franklin, Framingham, Halifax, Hanover, Hanson, Hingham, Holliston, Hopedale, Hopkinton, Hudson, Kingston, Marshfield, Maynard, Medfield, Medway, Milford, Natick, Newton, Norfolk, Norwood, Northborough, Northbridge, Pembroke, Plainville, Plymouth, Sharon, Sherborn, Southborough, Stow, Stoughton, Sudbury, Walpole, Waban, Wayland, Wellesley, Westborough, Weston, Weymouth, Whitman, and Wrentham.

Through their Eagle Scout projects, these Scouts have demonstrated exceptional leadership, commitment, and community service, contributing thousands of hours to improving their communities.

As such, special recognition goes to Alyssa B. of Troop 424 Marshfield, who received the 2023 Glenn A. and Melinda W. Adams National Eagle Scout Service Award. Ten other Scouts received “Honorable Mention” recognition for their outstanding service projects.

Please view the night’s program for a complete list of award recipients and honorees. A photo gallery of each of our honorees and the event is available.

The Mayflower Council extends its gratitude to the volunteers, sponsors, and families who support Scouting and help develop the leaders of tomorrow. Special thanks to Dick Keogh (Eagle Class of 1949) for his generous gift of commemorative pens for each participant; to Brigadier General (Retired) Emery Maddocks and the Military Order of the World Wars for the Honorable Mention Eagle Scout Certificates.

About Mayflower Council, BSA: Established in 2017, the Mayflower Council serves 62 cities and towns in Central and Eastern Massachusetts, providing Scouting programs that prepare young people to make ethical choices and achieve their full potential. The Council operates three camping properties: Camp Resolute, Camp Squanto, and the Nobscot Scout Reservation, offering over 1,400 acres of outdoor adventures.

For more information, please visit our Contact Page.

Media inquiries? Contact Mayflower Council Scout Executive Juan Osorio.

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For additional details on the Eagle Scout Class of 2023 and the Mayflower Council,
Please visit www.mayflowerbsa.org.




The Nobscot Hammer Crew Persists

Restoring a Scout camp… one hammer strike at a time

Mayflower Council — Nestled amidst the rolling hills and towering pines of forest-covered stretches of Sudbury and Framingham lies Nobscot Scout Reservation, a treasured haven for generations of young campers from New England.

But time, like the relentless march of nature, had taken its toll on the camp, leaving many cabins and facilities in disrepair.

Enter the Nobscot “Hammer Crew,” a dedicated group of volunteers who have taken it upon themselves to revitalize this beloved Scouting ground.

The story of the Hammer Crew begins with Pete Lane, a seasoned Scouting volunteer who stumbled upon the camp’s deteriorating state during a summer stroll in 2015. Witnessing the lone camp ranger struggling to repair a leaky roof single-handedly, Pete, ever the doer, offered a helping hand. This simple act of kindness ignited a spark that would eventually blossom into a full-fledged restoration effort.

Word of Pete’s initiative spread, and soon, he was joined by others who shared his vision of reviving Nobscot. Larry Bearfield, a key figure in the Nobscot Alumni Association (NAA), played a pivotal role in bringing together a team of skilled builders, visionaries, and do-it-yourself enthusiasts. This group, known as the Nobscot Hammer Crew (NHC), embarked on a mission to transform the camp.

The initial picture was bleak.

Most cabins stood boarded up, devoid of windows and doors, their roofs succumbing to the elements. Trees, victims of the gypsy moth infestation, lay sprawled across structures, further obscuring the extent of the damage. Roads were impassable, and the overall infrastructure was in dire need of attention.

Undeterred by the challenges, the NHC, led by the indefatigable Pete Lane, rolled up their sleeves and got to work. Starting with a handful of volunteers, the crew steadily grew, fueled by a shared passion for Scouting and a desire to see Nobscot thrive again.

One of the NHC’s most remarkable feats was restoring Cabin 39. This once-forgotten structure, shrouded in overgrown foliage and leaning precariously, presented a daunting task. But the NHC, with their unwavering determination and expertise, tackled it head-on.

Using cables and “come-alongs,” they painstakingly pulled the warped walls back into alignment, which took over a year. The crew then embarked on a comprehensive renovation, utilizing salvaged wood from trees felled during trail clearing and roof removal. This resourcefulness not only saved costs but also embodied the Scout’s principle of thriftiness.

The transformation of Cabin 39 is a testament to the NHC’s dedication and skill. The once-dilapidated cabin now stands proudly, ready to welcome future generations of campers.

While the NHC takes pride in its accomplishments, its focus remains firmly on the future of Nobscot. Its ultimate goal is to create a vibrant camp that fosters the growth and development of young minds through the timeless principles of Scouting.

The NHC’s unwavering commitment extends beyond mere repairs. They strive to enhance the overall camping experience by providing amenities like picnic tables, fire rings, and readily available firewood. They meticulously maintain the grounds, ensuring that trails are clear and accessible.

The Nobscot Hammer Crew is more than just a group of volunteers; they are a testament to the enduring spirit of Scouting. Their unwavering dedication, resourcefulness, and can-do attitude have breathed new life into Nobscot, transforming it from a forgotten relic into a thriving hub for outdoor adventure and personal growth.

As they continue their tireless efforts, the NHC leaves a lasting legacy – a camp restored, a community strengthened, and a beacon of hope for the future of Scouting.

Rick Riopelle, John Bishop, and the Nobscot Hammer Crew compiled this story.




Den Leader Appreciation: Matthew Kelly

Today, we conclude Mayflower Council’s Den Leader Appreciation Month for 2024.

Beyond focusing on the Scout Law and Oath, Lord Baden Powell said good leaders often see things from the Scout’s point of view, and that adage still holds

However, one local Cub Scout Den Leader from Pack 49 Norwood also takes BP’s old Scout motto to heart.

Matthew Kelly of Pack 49 Norwood

Cub Scout Pack 49 Norwood

Cub Scout Pack 49 Norwood

“He’s flexible; takes on anything the Pack needs,” explained Norwood Committee Chair Rebecca Flynn of her nominee, Den Leader Matthew Kelly – our final Den Leader of the Week for 2024.

However, Flynn focused on Kelly’s ability to “be prepared” for her nomination.

“Although he is new to Scouting, he trains himself on what he will teach the children,” said Rebecca. “He’s a teacher by trade, so he connects with them well and illustrates the curriculum with real-life examples.”

Matthew with Cub Scouts.

Matthew with Cub Scouts.

Of course, a Scout is also cheerful, so Matthew keeps things light for his Cub Scouts.

“He’s funny!” added the committee chair. “He enjoys being with the kids and likes some of the same things they enjoy (like Star Wars and video games).

“He hasn’t forgotten what being a kid is like.”

Den Leader Appreciation Month

This month, the Mayflower Council celebrated extraordinary leaders and recognized our superlative Den Leaders via social media weekly in May. Check out our five superlative Den Leaders, each collected here.

 

Den Leaders Light the Way

Den Leaders Light the Way




Den Leader Appreciation: Rob DeMarino

As we continue Den Leader Appreciation Month, the nominations keep rolling in. This week’s top nominee comes from Maynard, Massachusetts, where Cubmaster Jarrod Kennedy singled out Rob DeMarino for special recognition as Den Leader of the Week.

Rob DeMarino of Pack 130 Maynard

Maynard Cub Scouts

Maynard Cub Scouts

“Rob has served as a den leader in Pack 130 for several years and most recently graduated eight eager Scouts from the Arrow of Lights into the local BSA Troop,”  wrote Kennedy. “Rob provided an excellent environment, instilled the meaning of the Scout Law and Oath, and created many great memories for his cubs.

“After his Scouts crossed over, Rob has remained active in the pack and has volunteered to take on additional responsibilities. People like Rob are why packs and troops are successful.”

#Truth.

But those volunteers turn a successful unit into a superlative organization.

Case in point: Rob DeMarino.

Rob with Scouts for eclipse prep.

Rob with Scouts for eclipse prep.

“Rob is always willing to help where needed and is happy to do so,” added Kennedy. “I’ve known Rob for almost two years and have not seen him without a smile.

“However, as an Air Force veteran, Rob is also great at grabbing the attention of the cubs when needed!”

That said, it’s not a straightforward veteran voice that keeps the kids’ attention.

“Rob consistently takes the aims of scouting and comes up with creative and fun ways to teach the Cubs,” said Jarrod. “Most recently, Rob put together activities for a solar eclipse pack meeting [as seen above], including glasses for the scouts, a model of the sun and moon, and crafts to create masks for their glasses.”

Congratulations, and thank you to Rob DeMarino of Maynard for all his efforts on behalf of his den, Pack 130, and the Mayflower Council.

Den Leader Appreciation Month

“Den Leaders Light the Way!” Scouters!  

This month, we’re celebrating extraordinary leaders. Using your suggestions, the Mayflower Council will recognize our superlative Den Leaders via social media weekly in May. Meanwhile, each officially registered Den Leader in the Council will receive a limited edition commemorative patch! Nominate your best den leaders here.




Den Leader Appreciation: Todd Johnson

As you know, May is Den Leader Appreciation Month in the Mayflower Council.

Today, we recognize Todd Johnson of Pack 748 Medway as our third Den Leader of the Week for May 2024. 

Todd Johnson of Pack 748 Medway

Pack 748

Pack 748 Medway

“Todd has the liveliest den in the pack,” wrote Cubmaster Chris McKnerney. “His Scouts like to run around and have a good time, and Todd knows how to plan for that. 

“He keeps his meetings short and sweet, and the den meets outside year-round with many outings. 

“Todd is incredibly patient and well prepared and contributes to pack planning and activities,” added McKnerney.

While “patience” isn’t part of the Scout Law (yet), Todd’s ability to look beyond the excitement and energy remains a crucial facet of his leadership.

Todd Johnson

Todd Johnson, Den Leader, Pack 748

“Todd’s planning and patience make him an excellent den leader,” added the pack’s leader. “His den meets more often than the others in the pack because he knows he has to hold the Scouts’ attention. 

Meanwhile, and beyond the backyard, Johnson gets his den out and about.

“Todd is great at relating to his lively den, ” said Cubmaster McKnerney. “He takes them on many interesting outings, including trips to the town’s waste management facility, a supermarket, hikes, and even a fish hatchery.”

Congratulations and thank you to Todd Johnson of Medway for all his efforts on behalf of his den, Pack 748, and the Mayflower Council.

Den Leader Appreciation Month

“Den Leaders Light the Way!” Scouters!  

This month, we’re celebrating extraordinary leaders. Using your suggestions, the Mayflower Council will recognize our superlative Den Leaders via social media weekly in May. Meanwhile, each officially registered Den Leader in the Council will receive a limited edition commemorative patch! Nominate your best den leaders here.

And remember to RSVP to the Den Leader Appreciation Extravaganza near you!




Den Leader Appreciation: Matt Schickling

May is Den Leader Appreciation Month in the #MayflowerCouncil. Today, we recognize Matt Schickling of Pack 55 Northborough as our second Den Leader of the Week for May 2024.

Matt Schickling

Matt Schickling

“Matt’s leadership and investment in youth development is obvious in how he speaks to the scouts and guides them through the program. Word of his leadership has spread through the town, and his den is now almost twenty Cub Scouts strong!” explained Pack 55 Cubmaster Eric Young. “Matt also is a voice for inclusion in Cub Scouting and champions the power of Scouting to transform the lives of ALL youth.”

And with all that said, we hear Matt will be the next Cubmaster of the pack – congratulations!

“Den Leaders Light the Way!” Scouters! It’s time to celebrate some of your extraordinary leaders. Using your suggestions, the Mayflower Council will recognize our superlative Den Leaders via social media weekly in May. Meanwhile, each officially registered Den Leader in the Council will receive a limited edition commemorative patch! Nominate your best den leaders here.

Don’t forget to RSVP to the Den Leader AppreciationCheck Extravaganza near you!




BSA Changes Its Name To Scouting America

The new name reflects the continuing efforts to welcome everyone to experience the benefits of Scouting.

Milford, Mass. (May 7, 2024) – The Boy Scouts of America today announced that it will be changing its name to Scouting America. This change reflects the organization’s ongoing commitment to welcoming every youth in America to experience the benefits of Scouting. The name change will go into effect on February 8, 2025, the organization’s 115th birthday.

This announcement also comes as the organization celebrates the fifth anniversary of welcoming girls into Cub Scouting and Scouts BSA programs. Boy Scouts of America currently serves 176,234 girls and young women across all programs, including more than 6,000 who have earned Eagle Scout status.

A photo of Mayflower Council Executive Juan Osorio

Council Executive Juan Osorio

“We’re excited to be a part of Scouting America’s national launch!” said Council Executive Juan Osorio. “Here at Mayflower Council, we’ve always believed that Scouting is for all young people who are ready for adventure, leadership, and service. This new name reflects that commitment on a national scale, and we’re thrilled to welcome even more youth into our programs. We’re especially proud of the many young women who have thrived in Scouting these past five years, with thousands achieving the prestigious Eagle Scout rank. Scouting America opens a new chapter, and we can’t wait to see what the future holds for all Scouts!”

Scouting America builds on the organization’s 114 years of helping America’s youth. Its ongoing goal is to provide young people with a safe environment where they can learn meaningful life skills and have fun, educational experiences, fostering their growth and future outcomes as leaders, and be prepared for life. At the same time, values instilled by the Scout Oath and Law help prepare young people for lives of purpose and impact.

Mayflower Council, established in 2017, is the result of the consolidation of Scouting programming that has served Greater Metro West and the South Shore areas of Massachusetts for over a century. Comprised of territory that was once part of the Algonquin, Norumbega, Knox Trail, Squanto, and Old Colony Councils, the Mayflower Council is rich with the traditions and history of generations of Scouts and Scouting families.

More than 130 million Americans have been through Scouting programs since its founding in 1910, and currently, more than 1 million youth, including both men and women, are served by 477,000 dedicated adult volunteers in local councils throughout the country. To date, more than 2.75 million youth have earned Scouting’s highest rank of Eagle Scout.

In addition to supporting the nation’s youth, Scouting America will continue to be an important asset to strengthen our communities, having provided more than 7 million hours of volunteer services for community improvement and other projects across the country.

Scouting America

“Boy Scouts of America” is now Scouting America

About Scouting America

Scouting America provides the nation’s foremost youth program of character development and values-based leadership training, which helps young people be “Prepared. For Life.®”

Scouting America welcomes all of America’s youth into its programs. Our goal is to give them fantastic experiences in the outdoors, and elsewhere, where they can grow with us in a safe environment. More than 130 million Americans have been through our programs since our founding, and currently more than 1 million youth are served by 477,000 dedicated adult volunteers in local councils throughout the country.

To learn more about Scouting America’s mission, visit Scouting.org.

About Mayflower Council

Headquartered in Milford, Massachusetts, the Mayflower Council serves the Metrowest and South Shore areas sharing the fantastic benefits of Scouting to over 6,900 youth and 2,900 volunteer adults in 2023. The Boy Scouts of America continues to prepare young people for life by providing the nation’s foremost youth program of character development and values-based leadership training. Learn more about the Mayflower Council at www.mayflowerbsa.org.




Den Leader Appreciation: Christina Carlson

Mayflower Council celebrates the work of Pack 100 Westborough’s Lions Leader

Christina Carlson

Christina Carlson of Pack 100 Westborough

It’s Den Leader Appreciation Month in the Mayflower Council. Today, we recognize Christina Carlson of Pack 100 Westborough as our first Den Leader of the Week for May 2024.

“Christina is an AMAZING Den Leader! She is enthusiastic and incredibly organized, dedicating a lot of time and effort to organizing great meetings that our Lions love! She’s great with our youngest Cubs and is very kind and inclusive,” says the nomination from her den. “Christina shows her dedication to the Scouting mission by providing outstanding den meetings and always thinking of new activities that engage the Scouts.”

“Den Leaders Light the Way!” Scouters! It’s time to celebrate some of your extraordinary leaders. Using your suggestions, the Mayflower Council will recognize our superlative Den Leaders via social media weekly in May.

Meanwhile, each officially registered Den Leader in the Council will receive a limited edition commemorative patch!

Remember, nominate your best den leaders here. Congratulations, Christina, and thank you!