Be the Heart. Build Relationships. Change Lives.
Great Scout units don’t happen by accident. They’re powered by committed adult volunteers who give their time and energy to make a difference. Supporting those volunteers, often behind the scenes, is another key role: the Commissioner.
Commissioners serve as connectors and mentors, focusing not on running a single unit but on strengthening many. They build relationships with unit leaders, provide encouragement and practical guidance, and help link Packs, Troops, and Crews to valuable council resources. At its core, the role is about helping volunteers succeed so their units can flourish.
For those looking to expand their impact in Scouting, becoming a Commissioner is a meaningful way to serve. You don’t need prior Scouting experience or all the answers to get started. Training and mentorship are built into the role, with experienced Commissioners ready to guide you along the way. What matters most is a genuine desire to support others and contribute to the success of the program.
An opportunity to learn more is coming up at an in-person Commissioner training on Saturday, April 25 at 10:00 am at the Council Office. he session is free and open to anyone interested in exploring how they can support Scouting in this unique and rewarding way. For additional details or questions, contact Matt Phillippi.
Monticello Minute: March 31, 2026
by: Ed Murphy, District Chair
Monticello District
At our annual Awards and Recognition Dinner on March 5, the Monticello District recognized Scouts and Scouters who have gone above and beyond this past year.
Spirit of Scouting Award
Eric Cutright, Scoutmaster of Troop 1029, was awarded the Spirit of Scouting award in recognition of his more than 20 years of service to Pack 77, Troops 1028 and 1029, and to the VAHC Aquatics Committee. In Pack 77, Eric served multiple years as a Den Leader and Cubmaster. His annual Pinewood Derby workshops are a highlight for many Cub Scouts from multiple packs. In Troops 1028 and 1029, he has served as Assistant Scoutmaster, Scoutmaster, Life to Eagle mentor, and a merit badge counselor for over 60 different merit badges. Eric organizes the Council Aquatics Committee’s annual swim checks each spring, and he helps organize the Winter Aquatics program. His nomination said “For over two decades, Eric Cutright has embodied the Spirit of Scouting, through Cub Scouts, Scouts BSA, to Venturing, to the District and to Council-level service. He is the epitome of cheerful service…”
Outstanding Scout Awards
Adam Brill of Troop 75 received the Outstanding Scouts BSA Scout of the Year Award through his strong leadership, dedication, and positive impact on others in the Troop. “His patience, encouragement, and approachability foster an environment where every Scout feels they belong.” He has shown significant growth by earning the rank of Life Scout, completing a trek at Philmont, and being active in the Order of the Arrow. As Senior Patrol Leader and Quartermaster, he demonstrated responsibility and initiative, improving troop organization and leading effectively. Adam’s reliability, service, and upbeat personality make him a valued role model who embodies the core values of Scouting. “Adam Brill embodies the qualities of an outstanding Scout — leadership, service, resilience, and a genuine dedication to others.”
Caitlin Powell of Troop 360 received the Outstanding Scouts BSA Scout of the Year for her trailblazing leadership and dedication to Scouting. As the first female Cub Scout in Louisa County and a founding member of Troop 360, she has consistently demonstrated courage, service, and strong leadership, including serving as Senior Patrol Leader. She has actively participated in national opportunities, supported troop initiatives, and is working toward Eagle Scout with a community-focused outdoor youth kitchen and learning space project. Beyond her achievements, Caitlin stands out as a compassionate mentor and role model who embodies the values of the Scout Law in her everyday actions. “She is trustworthy in her leadership, loyal to her troop, helpful to her community, friendly and kind to every Scout who needs support, obedient in following and teaching proper Scouting methods, cheerful in even the toughest service days, thrifty in her project planning, brave in both action and advocacy, clean in her example, and reverent in her respect for others’ paths and beliefs.”
Isaac Yates of Pack 77 received the Cub Scout of the Year Award for his consistent participation, positive attitude, and growth in Scouting. Since joining as a Tiger, he has actively taken part in camps, service projects, special events, and Pack activities, always showing enthusiasm and kindness. He also supports the Council through strong involvement in Popcorn and Peanuts sales. “It has been a joy to watch Isaac grow and mature over the years as a Scout from a shy Tiger to an outgoing and leading Webelo. I am certain he will continue on and do great things throughout his career in Scouting and beyond.”
Jacob Stadler of Pack 222 received the Cub Scout of the Year Award for his exceptional commitment to Scouting despite joining less than two years ago. He has already participated in numerous camping trips and explored multiple troops to thoughtfully prepare for his next steps. Jacob was the top Popnut seller in 2025 and went above and beyond during Scouting for Food by personally engaging with neighbors to increase donations. “His enthusiasm and leadership are further reflected in earning his recruiter strip and actively promoting Scouting through a wide range of events.”
Eagle Scout Project of the Year Award
Hudson Irby has earned the Eagle Scout Project of the Year award for his service project by partnering with the Woodberry Cemetery Association to improve a historic African American cemetery he had previously helped clean. He led efforts to install benches, solar streetlights, a flagpole light, a new entrance sign, and a flag retirement pit to enhance safety, visibility, and community use. The project was funded through his extensive Scouting fundraising efforts and donations, and completed with about 300 hours of volunteer work from 22 participants. His work not only upgraded the cemetery’s infrastructure but also helped raise awareness and engagement within the local community.
Unit Scouter of the Year Awards
We recognized the following volunteers who were nominated by their unit for the Unit Scouter of the Year Award:
Natasha Roberts & Derek Ester, Pack 12
Kara Watts, Pack 77
Andrew Craven, Pack 79
Johanna O’Laughlin, Pack 79
Charles Kleff Jr. Pack 154
Michael Holder, Pack 197 and Troop 197
Warren Litton, Pack 206
Eric & Amanda Maule, Pack 222
Renee Brown, Troop 3
Richard Wilkinson, Troop 12
Jay Gillenwater, Troop 75
Sarah Lindegren, Troop 111
Matthew Esch, Troop 154
Patricia Witmer, Troop 180
Elina Sila, Troop 241
Amanda Willis, Troop 360
Heidi Jackson, Troop 1003
Zachary Paukert, Troop 3125
Paul Bieri, Order of the Arrow Orion Chapter
To our Unit Scouters, thank you for all that you are doing for Scouting and all that you continue to do to support our Scouts.
District Award of Merit
Audrey Storm (Pack 77, Troops 1028 & 1029 and Pack 222) and David Storm (Pack 77, Troops 1028 & 1029) have each been awarded the Monticello District Award of Merit. This is the highest honor that a District can give a volunteer Scouter.
Audrey Storm has received the District Award of Merit for her outstanding service and leadership at the unit, district, and council levels. As a longtime Cubmaster of Pack 77, she transformed the unit into one of the strongest in the district and has helped sustain other struggling packs and troops through mentorship and leadership roles. At the district and council levels, she has served as a Unit Commissioner, district committee member, and Council Vice-President for Membership, guiding growth during a challenging period. Audrey’s dedication, impact, and commitment to youth development make her highly deserving of this recognition.
David Storm has received the District Award of Merit for his dedicated service at the unit, district, and council levels. As Committee Chair of Pack 77, he helped grow the unit into one of the strongest in the district while also supporting Troops 1028 and 1029 as an Assistant Scoutmaster and merit badge counselor. At the district level, he has played a critical role as Friends of Scouting Chair, organizing and delivering presentations that support a major portion of the council’s funding. His commitment, leadership, and willingness to take on challenging responsibilities have made a lasting impact on Scouting in the Monticello District.
This is the first time in Monticello District history that a husband and wife have earned the District Award of Merit in the same year! Congratulations to Audrey and David, and a sincere thank you for all that you are doing for the District and for Scouting.
Monticello District Roundtable
Our next District Roundtable will be on Thursday, April 2, 2026, from 7:00-8:30 pm at the American Legion in Keswick. All adult leaders are strongly encouraged to attend. All unit Key 3 members should attend.
Yours in Scouting,
Ed Murphy
Monticello District Chair
Serve Those Who Serve Scouts: VAHC Commissioners
Behind every great Scout unit is a team of dedicated adult volunteers. And behind those volunteers is someone who supports, encourages, and connects them when they need it most. That someone is a Commissioner.
If you want to make a meaningful difference beyond your own unit, becoming a Commissioner may be the perfect next step. Commissioners focus on people. They build relationships with unit leaders, offer guidance and encouragement, and help connect Packs, Troops, and Crews with helpful council resources. The Commissioner badge is distinguished by a wreath of service surrounding it, symbolizing their shared responsibility for and commitment to unit service and reflecting what the role is truly about: strengthening units by serving the volunteers who lead them.
No prior Scouting experience is required and you don’t need all the answers. Experienced Commissioners will train and mentor you as you grow into the role. What matters most is a heart for service and a desire to help other volunteers succeed.
Learn more at in-person Commissioner training on Saturday, April 25 at 10:00 am at the Council Office. There is no cost for this training. Find out how you can serve those who serve Scouts and help every unit thrive. For questions, please reach out to Matt Phillipi.
Get Trained to Lead Outdoors
Adult leaders, join us at Camp Shenandoah for Outdoor School on May 1–3, 2026. This action-packed weekend offers essential hands-on training to help you deliver safe, exciting, and high-quality outdoor programs for your unit.
If you’re a Cub Scout leader preparing to take your Pack camping, you should take BALOO. Scouts BSA leaders can complete required outdoor skills by taking IOLS. Volunteers ready to support range and target activities can become certified by taking Rangemaster training. You can also earn certification as a Leave No Trace Level 1 Instructor to teach outdoor ethics or complete Scouting America Chainsaw Safety Training to safely serve on camp properties and conservation projects. There’s something for everyone!
From camping fundamentals to advanced outdoor skills, VAHC Outdoor School equips you with the confidence, knowledge, and credentials you need to support your Scouts’ adventures. Sharpen your skills, connect with fellow leaders, and strengthen your unit’s outdoor program, all in one weekend. Register today and be ready to lead the way!
Monticello Minute: January 27, 2026
by: Ed Murphy, District Chair
Advancement Notes – The End of an Era
After about 15 years of service, Jay Fox has stepped down as the Eagle Project reviewer for the Monticello District. In that time, he reviewed essentially every Eagle Scout project in the Monticello District. We estimate Jay has probably read, commented on, and approved nearly 1000 Eagle Projects. The Monticello District wants to thank Jay for his outstanding service to the Scouts of our District.
Pete Fenlon has agreed to take on the role of Eagle Project reviewer. In the near future, we will be creating a Monticello District email address that will automatically be forwarded to the District Eagle Project reviewer. We thank Pete for taking on this essential role.
Friends of Scouting
All units should schedule a Friends of Scouting presentation at a Pack Meeting, Troop Court of Honor, or other event where parents will be present. Please contact David Storm to schedule a day and time for your unit’s presentation.
Awards
The annual Monticello District Awards and Recognition Dinner will take place on Thursday, March 5, 2026, from 6:30-8:30 pm at the American Legion, 3025 Louisa Road, Keswick, VA. After a quick opening, a potluck dinner will be served and the award ceremony will follow dinner. Look for the potluck signup in your mailbox in the next few weeks.
Awards to be presented include the District Award of Merit, the Spirit of Scouting Award, Outstanding Scout of the Year (Cub Scout, Scouts BSA, Venturing), outstanding Eagle Project of the Year, and the Unit Scouter/Volunteer of the Year Awards. Nominations for awards are still open. You can see the list of awards, nomination deadlines, and past winners here.
Every unit should nominate a Scouter or volunteer for the Unit Scouter of the Year Award for their noteworthy service to the unit over the last chartered year. This award can be presented to a person, a couple, a business, or whomever the unit feels has provided noteworthy service to the Pack, Troop, or Crew. This award can be given to someone who is not a registered leader.
Christmas Tree Sales for Camp Shenandoah
The Monticello District has wrapped up Christmas Tree sales for the 2025 season. We ordered 1056 trees that were sold at 7 lots spread across Central Virginia. Total gross sales amounted to just over $110,000. After paying for the trees and other costs, we expect to return about $22,000 to the units and $15,000 to Camp Shenandoah. We greatly appreciate the hard work of our volunteers and Scouts who staffed the lots, often on long, very cold, shifts!
Charter Renewal
It is charter renewal season in the Monticello District! If your unit has not done so, please start your charter renewal immediately and submit it as soon as possible. We have been hearing about issues with the system and with individual registrations. Starting now will give you time to work through the issues before the deadline (February 28, 2026). If you have any questions, contact your Unit Commissioner. If you don’t know who your Unit Commissioner is, please contact our District Commissioner, Mike Bonham.
Monticello District Roundtable
Our next District Roundtable will be on Thursday, February 5, 2026, from 7:00-8:30 pm at the American Legion in Keswick. All adult leaders are strongly encouraged to attend.
Yours in Scouting,
Ed Murphy
Monticello District Chair
The Eagle’s Flight: Celebrating the VAHC Class of 2025
From the majestic ridges of the Mountain Valley District to the historic landscapes of the Monticello District, these young men and women have demonstrated what it means to “Be Prepared.” Collectively, they have contributed thousands of hours of service to our local communities, leaving a lasting legacy through their Eagle projects.
Mountain Valley District: 27 New Eagles
- Troop 1: Lucas Dodd, Ryan Sprague
- Troop 2: James Helmintoller-Quantz
- Troop 5: Aidan Hart, Albert Lewis
- Troop 8: Riley Smith
- Troop 11: Thomas Davisson, Christopher Jones, Caleb Roehl
- Troop 28: Nicholas Hansohn, Zishaan Mahmood
- Troop 29: Kellan Dorey
- Troop 33: Elijah Eaton, George Petty, Carter Stiehl
- Troop 40: Carter Lenz
- Troop 42: Tyler Watson
- Troop 46: Brycen Alexander, Madox Alexander, Ethan Cundiff, James Rothgeb
- Troop 73: Trenton Snyder, Jack Straight
- Troop 84: William Comfort, Everett Morse
- Troop 242: Kristina Dabaghyan
- Troop 314: Molly O’Connell
Monticello District: 55 New Eagles
- Troop 3: Alexander Bieri, Parker Manning, Connor Stanton
- Troop 12: Shane Barber, Jayden Chambers, Hudson Irby
- Troop 14: Lindon Brooks, Michael Forney, Sean Hughes
- Troop 16: Hunter Kuhstoss, Ethan Murray, David Snider
- Troop 17: Oscar Beaver, Daniel Gilday
- Troop 37: William Adams, Berren Dreier, Hunter Slinkman, Stephen Taylor
- Troop 75: Max Cable, Connor Mendoza, Andrew Smith, Benjamin Stallard, Bryce Wright
- Troop 79: Liam Caruana, James Decker, William Lewis, Kai Sensabaugh, Finbar Wilkinson
- Troop 111: Calvin Gilson
- Troop 114: Spencer Envall, Gabriel Johnson, Elijah Muehlman, Thomas Rockewell, James Skelly, Jackson Snider
- Troop 119: Caleb Burnett, Isaac Jennings
- Troop 138: Kingston Morgan
- Troop 174: Kaleb Dooley, Kyle Dooley, Wyatt Jones, Matthew Mellot, Rhylie Shifflett, David Wallace
- Troop 183: Alexander Hurst, Owen McHugh
- Troop 193: Hadley Hughes
- Troop 241: Matthew Field, Zachary Field
- Troop 1028: Griffin Bullock, Henry Dozier
- Troop 1029: Caroline Reilly, Kate Reilly
- Troop 1138: Addison Bargy
- Troop 2020: Madison MacEwen
A Legacy of Leadership
To our 2025 Eagles: Once an Eagle, always an Eagle. We look forward to seeing the great things you will accomplish next! 
Monticello Minute: October 28, 2025
by: Ed Murphy, District Chair
Scouting for Food is upon us!
This event is one of the most crucial service projects we provide for the counties and cities of our Council, providing great variety and additional food for the Blue Ridge Area Food Bank as it moves into the holiday season.
We will distribute flyers on the weekend of November 1st and/or 2nd (whichever day is most convenient for your unit) and pick up food on Saturday, November 8th.
Flyers are available for pickup at the Ed Murphy’s front porch; please email Ed for the address.
There is no need to call ahead. Just come get the flyers off the box on the porch. The box has markings on the side that you can use to measure out 200 flyers or 500 flyers. Please take only what you need so that there will be enough flyers for all our units.
The flyers are just that (they are not door hangers). David Storm said his units have had great luck stapling the flyers to plastic grocery bags. They have been able to get local grocery stores to donate the bags and have seen significantly larger donations.
Thanks for all you do for Scouting!
