Laurel Hills Lantern
Lighting the Way for Scouting in Westmoreland-Fayette
Guiding Leaders. Inspiring Youth. Building Adventure.
From the District Committee

Laurel Hills District Chair
Paul Merritt
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Laurel Hills District Commissioner
Herb Harris
The Laurel Hills District currently has 32 units with only 9 unit commissioners. With a ratio of almost 4 units per commissioner, unit service is not as effective as it could be. Having additional commissioners would reduce the workload for each one, and this would result in better unit service.
An important point of unit service is metrics. It is important that each unit records all of its activities in Scoutbook. The metrics help the unit commissioner to find areas where the unit might need assistance.

Laurel Hills District Executive
Hugh Hubble
Welcome to the first edition of the Laurel Hills Lantern, your guide to everything Scouting in the Laurel Hills District! As we step into a new year, I want to take a moment to thank each of you—our dedicated leaders, volunteers, and families—for the incredible work you do to keep the Scouting flame burning bright.
Our mission is simple yet powerful: to guide leaders, inspire youth, and build adventure. Every meeting, campout, and service project you lead creates opportunities for young people to grow in character, citizenship, and leadership. That impact lasts a lifetime.
This year, let’s rededicate ourselves to the health and strength of our units. Training, communication, and teamwork are the keys to success. Whether it’s attending Roundtable, recruiting new volunteers, or sharing ideas, your involvement makes all the difference.
Inside this issue, you’ll find updates on upcoming events, training opportunities, and ways to support Scouting in our community. Together, we can make 2026 a year of growth, adventure, and unforgettable experiences for every Scout.
Thank you for all you do to keep the spirit of Scouting alive in Westmoreland and Fayette Counties. Let’s keep lighting the way—one lantern at a time.
Upcoming Events
- January 7 — Scouting 5 for 5
- January 17 — University of Scouting
- January 17 — MHFA Provider Training
- Feb 20 – 22 — The Klondike Derby
- May 15 – 17 — Camporee 250
- June 10 – 12 — Laurel Hills Day Camp
Safety Moment
Psychological First Aid
- Purpose: Provide basic care, comfort, and support to anyone experiencing stress. Stay alert to signs of stress in yourself and others.
- Stress Triggers: Life events such as family issues, loss, trauma, disasters, exams, or conflicts. Responses vary by individual coping skills.
- Warning Signs of Poor Coping:
- Substance abuse
- Neglecting self-care
- Social withdrawal
- Blaming others
- Overeating or not eating
- Overworking or isolating
- Violent or aggressive behavior
How to Help:
- Listen with kindness and compassion.
- Provide safety and meet basic needs.
- Encourage healthy habits: rest, nutrition, normal routines.
- Suggest relaxation techniques and positive activities (e.g., Scouting, sports, reading).
- Seek professional counseling when needed.
- Allow time for emotional healing.
Caregiver Reminder: Monitor your own stress and apply these strategies for yourself too.
When Professional Help Is Needed:
- Extreme or worsening reactions
- Thoughts of harming self or others
- Inability to calm down, irrational fears, poor judgment, or severe sleep issues
District Needs
Unit Commisioner
Do you enjoy supporting others and making a difference? We’re looking for caring, dependable volunteers to serve as Unit Commissioners in our district. No prior experience required—just a willingness to help local Scouting units succeed!
What you’ll do:
- Serve as a friendly advisor to one or more Scouting units
- Help leaders access resources and training
- Encourage strong, healthy programs for youth
Flexible schedule, training provided, and the reward of knowing you’re helping youth thrive.
Interested? Contact Herb Harris today to learn more!
Membership
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Program
Finance
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Activities & Service
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Camping
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Advancement
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Training
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