3 Minute Update - October 29, 2026

Hey everyone, welcome to this week’s 3-minute update. I’m your host Tyler Matthews coming to you from Messiah Lutheran Church in Fairview Park where just this week we started our newest Lake Erie Council Cub Scout Pack! Welcome, Pack 126, to Lake Erie Council! Now, let’s get into this week’s news.

Well, it’s that time again- unit renewal is here! There is an update to the 2026 Renewal Cycle: Scouting America is transitioning to a common February renewal cycle nationwide. Units renewing during the 2026 renewal season will be renewed through February 29, 2028. Unit Renewal fees will be prorated at $8.50 per month. For example, units with a December 31, 2026, expiration date will pay $119 to extend their charter through February 29, 2028. Communications are going out to Key 3 leaders, and the council website is updated with everything you need to know to help make your charter renewal go smoothly. Please reach out to member care or your unit service executive with any questions about the process. The deadline to renew is DECEMBER 11th, 2026 by 5pm. Any renewals submitted past this point are subject to a $100 late fee. Unit renewals open November 1st, so don’t delay!

On November 14th, Scouting America will celebrate its inaugural National Day of Service, and what better way to participate than through Scouting for Food! This longstanding Scouting tradition brings Scouts together to collect nonperishable food donations for local food banks and families in need. As part of this nationwide effort, Scouts across the country will demonstrate what it means to live the Scout Oath and Law by giving back to their communities. Here in Lake Erie Council, Scouting for Food is a great opportunity for every unit to make a difference, help fight hunger, and show that Scouts are always ready to serve!

There is a November MBU happening at Beaumont Scout reservation. The MBU runs from the 13th-14th and will offer First Aid, Art, Drafting, Journalism, Communications, Public Speaking, Home Repairs, Cooking, Electricity, and Space Exploration merit badges. You can register now and if you have any questions reach out to Nick Nick Jarvis.

The Adventure Lab has a ton of exciting November programs that you don't want to miss! Sign up now for Badge Labs, including Citizenship in the Community, and First Aid. New to the Adventure Lab this fall are Open Labs on Wednesday nights. For $5, drop in for hands-on projects that also meet merit badge requirements! Check out the registration page for a full list of Open Lab topics or just stop by the Service Center on Wednesday nights!  Finally, join us for “Cub-Club” on November 14th! This is an exciting opportunity to engage with Cub Scouts from all around the area and participate in fun, unique events. These Labs are open to Scouts AND Students, so invite your friends. To register, visit the adventure lab calendar. These Labs are held in the Adventure Lab inside the Unit Service Center in downtown Cleveland. For more information, contact Sarah Demetruk, the Adventure Lab Director. Grow your leadership, character, and learning with The Adventure Lab!

The Lake Erie Council is hosting a Range Safety Officer Training at the Unit Service Center on Saturday, November 21, 2026! If you want to help run rifle, shotgun, cowboy action, or muzzleloading ranges, this training is required. Register now

It’s never too early to get into the holiday spirit! Registration is open for this years Holidays at camp happening December 12th at Firelands Scout reservation. This one-day experience will feature wreath making, shooting sports, cookie decorating, wagon rides, snow man competitions, hot chocolate and more!

Mark your calendars for the 2027 Klondikes! January 22nd – 24th , and January 29th – 31st  hosted at Beaumont Scout reservation, and February 12th – 14th at Firelands Scout reservation.

Well, that’s it for this week folks! Send pictures and videos of your scouts in action to us for a chance to be featured on council social media. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram! Until next time, remember to stay prepared, stay adventurous, and keep the spirit of Scouting alive.