Friday, December 31, 2010

Closing Thought

It was the coldest winter ever - many animals died because of the cold. The porcupines, understanding the situation, decided to group together. They covered and protected themselves; but the quills of each one wounded their closest companions even though they gave off heat to each other.

So they began to distance themselves from each other and began to die, alone and frozen. So they had to make a choice: either accept the quills of their companions or
disappear from the Earth.

They decided to go back to being together. This way they learned to live with the little wounds that were caused by the close relationship with their companions, and appreciate the warmth; this way they were able to survive.

Moral of the story:
The best relationship is not the one that brings together perfect people, but the best is when each individual learns to live with the imperfections of others and can admire the other person's good qualities.

I wish we could all make the same choice as these porcupines. None of us is perfect, we all have flaws or differences but that is what makes the world go round. Instead of all the hate we should make the choice to accept everyone for who they are, there are always lessons to be learned if we only open ourselves to learning them.

See you next month.

Monday, December 27, 2010

Cubmaster Minute

Respect yourself and respect other people. This means that you should realize that everyone is unique, and everyone has his or her own ideas and abilities, and that this is a good thing, rather than a bad thing. Celebrate diversity! The fact that people are different and possess different talents means that when you work as a team, together you can achieve more than any one of you could alone.

Friday, December 17, 2010

2011 Pinewood Derby Build Rules

[Note: these are the rules for participation in the District Super Derby which will take palce on Saturday, March 12, 2011 at Saint Timothy's Church in Walkersville, MD - Stay tuned for more info! Pack 195 will be using the same rules to build, qualify and race our own derby cars at our Pinewood Derby Race which will take place on Saturday, January 29, 2011.]

Derby cars are small pinewood models of specified dimensions, designed and carved by Cub Scouts under parental guidance, and raced by the Cub Scout under Scout Leadership supervision. The pinewood derby cars are gravity powered and run unaided down a regulation racetrack to a finish line. A strip placed down the center of each lane guides the cars in a straight path.

• 1. Pinewood derby cars must be built and qualify at the Pack Derby during the same program year as the Catoctin Mountain District Super Derby race.

• 2. Any Pinewood Derby Kit may be used as long as BSA(Boy Scouts of America) Wheels and Axels are used. (This year there is two different wheel sets from BSA, see attachment for more information.)

• 3. Only the axles (nails) contained in the official pinewood derby kit can be used as the pinewood derby axles. However, the axles can be sanded or polished, and affixed (glued, etc.) to the underside of the pinewood derby car. (How to check BSA nails. Leave Nail tips exposed)

• 4. No magnets are allowed to be used on or in the Pinewood Derby Car.

• 5. You may not change the wheel dimensions. Wheels may not be rounded, pointed, concaved, shaved or otherwise modified. You may, however, sand the tread or tire contact area of the wheel to smooth out the rough spots. Wheel bearings, washers, and bushings are prohibited. The car will not ride on springs of any type. Wheel covers or hub caps are prohibited, the head of the nail must be viewable for inspection. The axels (nails) maybe polished and stamping imperfections removed but the shape and size of the head may not be altered. The recommended wheel and axle lubricant is dry, powdered graphite.

• 6. EXTENDED WHEEL BASE/ CAR BODY:
The axel grooves provided in the block of wood do not have to be used. The wheel base may be altered. The total overall length of the car may not exceed 7 inches.

• 7. The only acceptable lubrication is dry powder lubricants. Oil, grease, silicone spray, or other lubricants are not permitted on the pinewood derby car’s axles or wheels.

• 8. No loose materials or liquid of any kind are permitted on or in the pinewood derby cars. (Loose material used for weights is the most frequent violation of this rule. If the car rattles it fails)

• 9. The overall pinewood derby car width shall not exceed 3 inches. The overall pinewood derby car length shall not exceed 7 inches. The overall pinewood derby car height shall not exceed 4 inches.

• 10. The unobstructed clearance of the pinewood derby car must be 3/8 inch or more from the total underside of the car to the base of the wheels. (This is for track clearance)

• 11. The pinewood derby car shall not exceed the standard 5.00 ounces (Avoirdupois ounces, not troy ounces) or 141.75 grams. The weight of the pinewood derby car should be close to 5.00 ounces prior to coming to the derby; however, the pinewood derby car weight may be adjusted during registration at the Pit Table.

• 12. Direction of Travel will be marked on car and easily identifiable. (On bottom is fine)

• 13. Cars not meeting the official derby rules will be disqualified from racing. Alterations may be attempted during the registration time before the start of the first heat. There will be a workshop area with some tools and supplies to make modifications.

A complete set of rules, build guidelines and open class rules can be found on the District web page: http://www.boyscouts-ncac.org/openrosters/ViewOrgPageLink.asp?LinkKey=20672&orgkey=2009

Thursday, December 16, 2010

Thursday, Dec 16, 2010 - Frederick County Schools Closing Two-Hours Early

Schools will dismiss students 2 hours early Thursday, Dec 16 due to the weather. AM pre-k students remain at school for dismissal with full-day students. PM pre-k and Career and Technology Center (CTC) classes are canceled. PM CTC students remain at their home schools. Flexible Evening High, Adult Ed and Heather Ridge Twilight programs are canceled. All FCPS afterschool and evening activities are canceled or postponed. Daycare centers in FCPS schools independently make decisions about their schedules and communicate their decisions directly to the media, principal and families they serve.

~~~

Cubmaster Note: If this weather develops we will reevaluate our options and make a determination on canceling the Pack Meeting, however, at this time we will be holding our Pack Meeting tonight as scheduled.

When: 7:00 PM
Where: St. Paul's Church, Basement Social Hall.

Wednesday, December 1, 2010

Monthly Theme - Respect

The Core Value highlighted this Month is:
Respect: Showing regard for the worth of someone or something.
Through interacting with pack families, Cub Scouts will develop appreciation and
respect for different families and traditions. Through pack service projects, they will learn to treat the environment with care.

Tuesday, November 30, 2010

Closing Thought

There once was a Persian named Ali Hafed, who owned a very large farm that included orchards, grain fields, and gardens. One day he heard about diamonds. From then on, dreams of diamonds consumed him. All he could think about was finding diamonds, and becoming even richer. So Ali sold his farm, and went off search for diamonds. He spent many years wandering though Palestine and Europe, but never found any diamonds. Ali died far from home, poor and friendless.

One day the man who bought Ali’s farm was watering his camel in a shallow stream that ran through the farm. The man noticed a curious flash of light. He reached into the stream, and pulled out a shining stone that reflected the colors of the rainbow. He had found a diamond! As he sifted the sands of the brook through his fingers, he found more stones, more beautiful and valuable than the first.

And thus the diamond-mine of Golconda was discovered, one of the richest diamond mines in all history. It produced some of the largest stones ever found, crown jewels for the monarchs of Europe.

There are undiscovered diamonds in our own back yards, hidden in our dens and packs. These diamonds are disguised as boys. It will take a discerning leader to see these diamonds in the rough, and take patience and skill to polish these diamonds.Thank you for caring about your boys, and becoming cub scout leaders.

Thank your for helping these “diamonds in the rough” to reach their potential.

See you next month.

Friday, November 26, 2010

Cubmaster Minute

America promises us freedom to worship, to learn, to assemble, and to debate any issue. It is a land where people from other countries can find a home, where there is work to do, where we can express our opinions, and where we are free to come and go as we please. Our wonderful heritage, earned for us by our forefathers, is sometimes taken for granted. Unless we cherish this legacy and use it wisely, it may be lost to future generations. People working together with imagination, vitality, and persistence, have produced marvelous inventions and wonders of technology beyond anything our forefathers might have dreamed of. Working together, we can preserve and protect our beautiful land for future generations.

Monday, November 15, 2010

Scouting for Food 2010

Thank You to everyone that helped pass out bags and/or collect the food over the past two-weekends.

The Walkersville Food Bank collected over 24,000 pounds of food from the Scout units in the area and Pack 195 collected and delivered an estimated 4000 pounds of that food! Good job! Over all in the Council with 312 units reporting the total amount of food collected is over 400,000 pounds of food, and that number is growing every minute as more and more units report their totals!

Your assistance and desire to live up to the ideals of Scouting has made this possible.

THANK YOU!



Photo by: D Marron

Photo by: D Marron

Photo by: D Marron

Photo by: D Marron

Photo by: D Marron

Photo by: D Marron

Photo by: D Osborne

Photo by: D Osborne

Monday, November 8, 2010

Monthly Theme - Citizenship

The core value highlighted this month is:
Citizenship: Contributing service and showing responsibility to local, state, and national communities. Citizenship is an obligation we all share as Cub Scouts and leaders. One of the key components of being a good citizen is helping others.

Cub Scouts can also learn about Citizenship by learning about respecting the flag and providing service to the community.

Friday, October 29, 2010

Cubmaster Minute

Most of us have seen Canadian Geese heading north for spring. They fly in a V formation. When you see geese flying along in a V formation, you might consider that science has discovered why they fly that way:

As each bird flaps its wings, it creates an uplift for the bird immediately following. By flying in V formation, the whole flock creates at least 71% greater flying range than if each bird flew on its own. Each goose in each position in the V has a responsibility to help all the others.

People who share a common direction and sense of community can get where they are going faster and easier because they are traveling on the trust of one another.

When a goose falls out of formation it suddenly feels the drag and resistance of trying to go it alone and quickly gets back into formation to take advantage of the lifting power from the bird in front. It’s like riding the draft in NASCAR. If we had as much sense as a goose we would stay in formation with those who are headed in the same direction that we are.

When the head goose gets tired, it rotates back and another goose flies point. We need you all to cooperate and work together. It is your responsibility to help the others in your den and pack. It makes sense to take turns doing demanding jobs whether it’s with people or with geese flying north. No matter if you’re the head goose or one in formation, we’re all going for "True North" together.

Thursday, October 28, 2010

Advice Found in my Inbox

This was in my inbox this morning...thought I would share. There is some good advice in these words.

ONE: Give people more than they expect and do it cheerfully.

TWO: Marry a man/woman you love to talk to. As you get older, their conversational skills will be as important as any other.

THREE: Don't believe all you hear, spend all you have or sleep all you want.

FOUR: When you say, 'I love you,' mean it.

FIVE: When you say, 'I'm sorry,' look the person in the eye.

SIX: Be engaged at least six months before you get married.

SEVEN: Believe in love at first sight.

EIGHT: Never laugh at anyone's dreams. People who don't have dreams don't have
much.

NINE: Love deeply and passionately. You might get hurt but it's the only way to live life completely.

TEN: In disagreements, fight fairly. No name calling.

ELEVEN: Don't judge people by their relatives.

TWELVE: Talk slowly but think quickly.

THIRTEEN: When someone asks you a question you don't want to answer, smile, and ask, ‘Why do you want to know?'

FOURTEEN: Remember that great love and great achievements involve great risk.

FIFTEEN: Say 'bless you' when you hear someone sneeze.

SIXTEEN: When you lose, don't lose the lesson.

SEVENTEEN: Remember the three R's: Respect for self; Respect for others; and Responsibility for all your actions.

EIGHTEEN: Don't let a little dispute injure a great friendship.

NINETEEN: When you realize you've made a mistake, take immediate steps to correct it.

TWENTY: Smile when picking up the phone. The caller will hear it in your voice

TWENTY-ONE: Spend some time alone.

A true friend is someone who reaches for your hand and touches your heart.

Tuesday, October 26, 2010

POPCORN SALES UPDATE

All popcorn sales forms and money need to be turned in to Cheryl Farmer no later than SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 13. You can turn these in to Cheryl on either day of the Scouting for Food event.

Scouting for Food

The annual Scouting for Food event will take place on two Saturdays, November 6 and 13. Bag drop off will take place on Saturday, November 6. We will start at 9:30 a.m., meeting at the gazebo in Worman’s Mill.

We will be covering the same area as last year in the Waterside, Worman’s Mill and Highlands neighborhoods. Pickup will be on Saturday, November 13. This event is held rain or shine.

Belt Loop and Pin Update

There are no limitations on the number of times a Scout can earn an Academic or Sports belt loop and pin. However due to budget limitations, the Pack Committee has decided that the Pack will only award a Scout a belt loop and pin the first time he earns it. Subsequent awards will be in the form of a certificate.

For example, if your Scout goes to day camp four years in a row, he will earn the Archery and BB belt loop and pin every year. The Pack will award him the actual belt loop and pin for these activities the first time he earns them. In subsequent years, the Pack will award him a certificate for these activities.

This is strictly a cost issue as belt loops and pins cost $1.89 each, while a certificate costs $0.12. For the September Pack Meeting, we spent nearly $200 on belt loops and pins alone!

Friday, October 1, 2010

Monthly Theme - Responsibility

The core value highlighted this month is: Responsibility: Fulfilling our duty to God, country, other people, and ourselves. Cub Scouts will understand that everyone is responsible for fire prevention, and learn about the importance of keeping their promises.

Responsibility:
Responsibility is fulfilling our duty to take care of ourselves and others.

Someone who is responsible will:
Be dependable; do what you say you will do.
Finish your homework.
Take care of chores at home.
Be helpful.
Accept the consequences for your actions.
Take care of your personal possessions.

Thursday, September 30, 2010

Closing Thoughts

Forest Witcraft is credited with writing a little poem called A Hundred Years from Now

It goes like this:

A hundred Years from now,
It will not matter what my bank account was,
The sort of house I lived in,
Or the kind of car I drove.
But, the world may be different,
Because I was important in the life of a boy.
This is the driving force behind Scouting.

Since 1910 when scouting was started in the US, millions of boys from all walks of life have been introduced to scouting, by parents just like you. You’ve taken the first step in ensuring that your son will grow up the way you want him to by signing him up in Scouting, so I thank you, and even though he doesn’t know it yet, he thanks you.

Monday, September 27, 2010

Cubmaster Minute

I’m sure you’ve all seen the Olympic Circles – the symbol of the Olympic Games. Have you ever noticed how the circles intertwine?

There was purpose it that design. Although athletes come from many countries, some that disagree with each other politically – or may even be at war with one another – during the Olympic Games, the village housing the athletes is a place where people of different religious beliefs, different social status and different cultural traditions can eat and talk together. There are no walls to separate them from athletes from other countries. We need to provide that same kind of atmosphere for our scouts – so they can work together, play together and learn together – so they can work together as a team.

In other words, Cooperate!

Friday, September 17, 2010

Welcome Tigers

Tiger Leaders and Adult partners. I'm going to use this forum to help you all keep on track and know whats coming up, as well as provide some suggestions.

Tiger Cubs
Tigers earn their Bobcat first and use the Cub Scout motto.
Tigers wear the blue uniform.


Requirements for the Tiger Cub Totem
Learn the Cub Scout motto:
Learn the Cub Scout sign
Learn the Cub Scout salute


A Tiger Cub must finish Bobcat before beginning to earn his Tiger Cub rank. But hey, once he has learned the Cub Scout Motto, Sign and Salute, the Immediate Recognition Emblem is already earned, it's a done deal except for presentation.

So even if the Law of the Pack or the Promise take a bit longer, the Immediate Recognition Emblem requirements are in fact already done. Applying a bucket of common sense, and as we favor instant recognition in Cubs, I would say go ahead and do the Immediate Recognition Emblem at the latest the next pack meeting, even if Bobcat is not yet completed.

After earning his Bobcat Badge, the Tiger Cub must then complete one Den Activity, one Family Activity, and one Go See It Activity within each of the five achievement areas to earn the Tiger Cub rank. He works with his adult partner to do this. As he completes each of the 15 requirements, he receives the appropriate orange, white, or black bead at the next den meeting to add to his totem.


What is Tiger Cubs?


T - Time spent building a stronger relationship with a boy and his family

I - Introducing a boy and his family to Scouting.

G - Getting to know others and one's self better.

E - Entering into a group; being part of something special.

R - Reaching out to one another and getting hands on experiences.

S - Sharing and discovering new things and ideas.

This is what Tiger Cubs is all about!

Friday, September 10, 2010

Monthly Theme - Cooperation

The core value highlighted this month is:
Cooperation:
Working together with others toward a common goal. Cub Scouts and their families cooperate to make the first Pack Meeting a memorable occasion for all, including the new families and boys.

Tuesday, August 31, 2010

Position-Specific Training for Cub Scout leaders now on MyScouting.org

Cracker Barrel, the official blog of Scouting Magazine is reporting that Position-Specific Training is now available for Cub Scout leaders.

Just go to MyScouting.org, log in, and click on "E-Learning" on the left navigation bar.

From there, under the Cub Scout tab you'll find these new courses:
Tiger Cub position-specific
Wolf Cub position-specific
Bear Cub position-specific
Webelos position-specific
Cubmaster position-specific
Pack Trainer position-specific
Pack Committee position-specific

Saturday, July 31, 2010

Closing Thoughts

Something to think about before we start a new year of meetings and advancement, are you a Boss or a Leader?

The boss drives his men;
The leader coaches them.

The boss inspires fear;
The leader inspires enthusiasm

The boss depends on authority:
The leader on goodwill.

The boss says “I”:
The leader says “We”.

The boss assigns tasks;
The leader sets the pace.

The boss says “Get here on time!”
The leader gets there ahead of time.

The boss fixes blame for the breakdown;
The leader fixes the breakdown.

The boss knows how it’s done;
The leader makes it a game.

The boss says "Go!"
The leader says "Let’s go!"

The world needs leaders, but nobody wants a boss. This year let's be leaders of our scouts and not bosses to our son's, and more importantly, let's be great example to our new leaders in our pack as well as our future leaders!

I hope you had a great month in scouting and I'll see you next month!

Sunday, July 25, 2010

Despite The Heat...We Went on a Treasure Hunt!

Yesterday, despite the heat we went and did the local walking tour and kids treasure hunt. Thankfully we went in the AM but it was still a scorcher, and we still had fun!


Carnival!

Did you miss going to the Carnival with Pack 195?

We were there!






























Day Camp Pictures are Here!

Yes, I apologize for taking so long, but Day Camp Pictures are HERE!
All photos are of our Cub Scout aged boys from Pack 195

At the BB Gun range!

Heading off for the activities!

Robin Hood!

Steady, Aim, Fire!

Doing the Flag/Closing Cermony!




We're all wet!
All photos by Dennis O.

Friday, July 23, 2010

Cubmaster Minute

We shouldn’t take our freedom for granted. Our right of free speech, to worship as we choose, and to enjoy the freedom we have as Americans. Our freedom is often taken for granted. There was a time in our history when man could only hope for these freedoms. And now they have become reality. Our freedom is a result of the courage and sacrifice of thousands of our forefathers. Let us remember what it cost these men to provide our freedoms today and help keep our land free for those citizens of tomorrow.

Friday, July 2, 2010

Monthly Theme - Celebrate Freedom

Celebrate America's freedom established on July 4, 1776,with patriotic songs, games, and family fun. Discover what makes America so special to us. Decide on a birthday present your pack can give to America by doing a service project and a "Good Turn for America." Participate as a den or pack in an Independence Day parade. Enjoy the beauty of our country by participating in outdoor activities. Have a den barbecue or family gathering and share some family heritage about coming to our great nation. Design and serve a birthday cake and sing to America!

Earn the Citizenship and Heritages belt loops and pins.

Some of the purposes of Cub Scouting developed through this month’s theme are:
Good Citizenship. Boys will develop the habits and attitudes to be better citizens when they learn about some of the ideals, traditions, and symbols of our country.
Character Development. Boys will grow in character by giving back to the communities where they live.
Preparation for Boy Scouts. By learning and participating In flag ceremonies, the Cub Scouts will develop pride in America as all Boy Scouts should.
The core value highlighted this month is:
Citizenship, Boys will gain respect for the American Flag through practicing flag courtesies and ceremonies.
Respect, Respect for our country and others is emphasized this month.

Monday, June 28, 2010

Upcoming Summertime Pack Events

In addition to our June events which are the pack picnic and day camp and Camp Snyder in August, the pack will be enjoying a night at the Walkersville Carnival on Thursday, July 8. Meet at 6:30 pm. at the food pavilion and then enjoy the rides on a pay-one-price night. The Walkersville Fire Department sells tickets prior to the carnival for ½ price so be sure to pick up your tickets in advance to save.

On Saturday, July 24, we will have special scavenger hunt in downtown Frederick. Time and meeting place are to be determined.

On Saturday, August 21, the pack will visit the “tank farm” near Nokesville, VA which houses a privately owned collection of armored vehicles. See http://nmaw.org/registration/2010openhouse.php for more information. Details will be forthcoming as the date approaches.

If your scout participates in at least one event in June, July and August, he will receive a special summer activity participation award. Which we will award him at either the September or October Pack meeting.

Friday, June 25, 2010

Cubmaster Minute

We hear a lot of talk about being a good sport, but just what does it mean? A good sport learns the rules so he will not violate them. He competes with all his heart striving to outclass his competitors. If he wins, he doesn't act smug but instead compliments the losers for the fine showing they made. If he loses, he should accept the fact and find out why. Maybe he can win the next time.

A sportsman accepts defeat, congratulates the winners, studies how to improve, and determines to do better the next time.

Wednesday, June 23, 2010

June Coming to a Close...July Right Around the Corner

Based upon our participation level, both June events were hits all around! First we had our June Picnic and Bridging Ceremony where we advanced ALL of our Scouts onto their next rank. Congratulations to all of our boys, and especially our adult volunteers, without you our Pack would not be the success it is.

Our other event was Day Camp! What a time that was, with so much going on everyday, it's no wonder that my Scouts were tired by the time they got home in the evening. I did make it to Day Camp a couple of days in time for the Closing and Flag ceremony and I was able to see our Webelos do the Flag Ceremony one day! I'm so glad I happened to show up in uniform.

I want to express my gratitude to every adult from our Pack that volunteered to walk with our Scouts and provide that much needed leadership that is needed. I also want to tell our Scouts how proud I am of their participation at Day Camp. I was there in the crowd on the last day and was very impressed with our Scouts, Webelos and some of our new Tigers as they performed their skits. Great job guys!

If anyone has pictures of our Scouts at Day Camp, please share them with me and I'll post them here for all to see.

Don't forget we have two events planned for July
July 8 - Pack 195 goes to the Walkersville VFD Carnival
July 24 - Pack 195 will go on a scavenger hunt in Frederick

I hope you all have a wonderful, productive and safe summer, and I'll see you next month.

Friday, June 11, 2010

Day Camp Orientation - Sunday, June 13

There will be a Day Camp Orientation held at Woodsboro Town Park on JUNE 13 from 5:30 – 6:30 pm. This orientation is optional. There will be other groups using the park that evening and our gathering will be informal. Look for our “Pack Rat” POD in the main parking area.

At the orientation, we will be distributing Camp T-shirts and offering some Day Camp tips. If you cannot attend the orientation, you may pick up T-shirts on the first day of camp. T-shirts will not be given out at the orientation to anyone other than the scout’s family. The orientation is an excellent opportunity for your family to come explore the park and meet the Camp Staff. It is especially helpful for boys who are anxious about coming to Camp or who have not attended Cub Scout Day Camp before. It makes the boys feel a little better on the first day of camp if they have at least been to the location before with their parents.

Hope to see you there!

Day Camp Starts Monday, June 14!

Basic Information
This year’s day camp will be held at Woodsboro Town Park. The park is located at the northeast corner of the intersection of Rt. 194 and Rt. 550. Camp will begin with a Flag Ceremony each day at 9 a.m. Monday through Thursday, and at 12 p.m. on Friday. Boys must be checked in with the staff member at the curbside drop off or their Unit den walker each day by the parent bringing them to Camp. Boys may be dropped off up to 15 minutes prior to the Flag Ceremony. Camp will end at 4:00 p.m. Monday through Thursday. Parents should arrive to pick up their child by 4:00 p.m. Boys must be picked up from their Unit den walkers on the Flag Field (near the front of the park this year). On Friday we have a special program planned. The actual camp session will end Friday at 4 p.m. but special activities are planned until around 6:30 p.m. The boys staying on Friday for the Program will remain with their Unit den walker until the conclusion of the Program, at which time they will be released to their parents.

If for some reason you must pick your camper up early during the week, you must first come to Headquarters to receive a Checkout Slip. No camper will be released from his Unit den walker without a Checkout Slip!

You may visit the camp anytime during the week. We just ask that you first sign-in on the visitors log at Headquarters and receive a Visitors Badge to wear while in camp! This helps us know who is in camp both for the safety of our campers and our Staff.

Our Friday evening is full of activities.

Drop Off
This year due to the number of scouts attending camp and the limited parking we will have curbside drop off in the main parking lot. There will be day camp staff checking in scouts as they get out of their cars in the curbside drop off. We would like to empty 6 cars at a time to keep the line moving. We can not have cars backing up onto Rt. 550 for safety reasons. If you need to park please park in the grass area. There will be no parking on the flat part of the main parking lot so we can move the curbside drop off through that area.

There is also some parking available at the second entrance to the park near the archery range.

Pick Up
There is no easy way to do curbside pick up. We recommend that packs carpool to decrease the number of cars parking to pick up at the end of the day. Again parking is available across the creek at the second entrance to the park and since we have moved the Opening and Closing Ceremonies to the front field in the park, it will not be so far to walk from that parking lot. All scouts must be signed out with the unit leader.

Adult Volunteers
If you are an Adult Volunteer, you need to check-in at Headquarters each morning that you volunteer. You will receive a wrist band and your assignment for the day. If you must leave the camp for any reason, you need to checkout before leaving, even if it is just to run to the local store for that forgotten lunch or drink! It is very important in case of an emergency that we know exactly how many adults and children are in camp at all times! There will be a training session for Adult Volunteers each day during the first rotation. All Adult Volunteers are required to attend this training. Once you have completed the training, you will not have to repeat the training the rest of the week.

Medical Forms
All scouts, Staff Members, Parent Volunteers, Junior Staff Members, Program Assistants, and children attending the Sibling Camp must have a Medical Form on file with the Camp Health Officer before the first day of Camp! If you have not already turned one in, please see your Pack Day Camp Coordinator. Please carefully complete the form in its entirety. Every question on there is required to be answered by Maryland State Law. One common mistake is that people are missing the question in the middle section about Allergies. Don’t forget to check Yes or No! Also, many people have been writing “Up To Date” for the date of the last tetanus shot. This is not acceptable! You must write in the month and year of the last tetanus shot. Your physician’s office should be able to give you the date over the telephone.

If you have already turned in your Medical Form and you now know you need to add or change information, please e-mail the information to the Camp Director at becky@stalnakersolutions.com

Day Camp Orientation
There will be a Day Camp Orientation held at Woodsboro Town Park on JUNE 13 from 5:30 – 6:30 pm. This orientation is optional. There will be other groups using the park that evening and our gathering will be informal. Look for our “Pack Rat” POD in the main parking area.

At the orientation, we will be distributing Camp T-shirts and offering some Day Camp tips. If you cannot attend the orientation, you may pick up T-shirts on the first day of camp. T-shirts will not be given out at the orientation to anyone other than the scout’s family. The orientation is an excellent opportunity for your family to come explore the park and meet the Camp Staff. It is especially helpful for boys who are anxious about coming to Camp or who have not attended Cub Scout Day Camp before. It makes the boys feel a little better on the first day of camp if they have at least been to the location before with their parents. Hope to see you there!

What to Wear to Camp
Day Camp runs rain or shine! Please dress all campers according to the weather. Cub Scouts and Staff Members must wear their Camp T-shirt everyday. The camp t-shirt is the campers security identification.

Boys must bring some type of hat (a baseball cap, Cub Scout cap, or other) from home to wear throughout the day. Make sure the hat is labeled with your son’s name! Most likely, we will be experiencing warm weather and campers should be dressed in shorts. Everyone (including Adult Volunteers and Sibling Campers) must have socks and closed toe shoes, such as sneakers. Flip-flops and sandals are not acceptable footwear at Day Camp! On rainy days, everyone should bring a rain poncho. We will continue even in the rain!

Sunscreen and bug spray should be applied prior to coming to camp. Adults are not allowed to apply any sunscreen or bug spray to your child once they arrive at camp due to allergies. Also, once the boys get there and they begin to sweat, it is very easy for them to get it in their eyes. So please apply these before they come to camp! If you want your son to reapply to himself midway through the day, please send the sunscreen in a Ziploc bag clearly marked with your son’s name and Unit number.

What to Bring to Camp
Boys will need to bring a lunch with them each day. Their lunch should include a drink. Lunches should be packed in a gallon size Ziploc bag with their name, pack number and unit number clearly marked on the front. All lunches will be placed in the unit’s ice chest when the boys arrive at camp. Please do not pack lunches in brown paper bags, lunch boxes or insulated lunch bags. Brown paper bags tear once they get wet from the ice inside the ice chest. We have a limited number of ice chests, and lunch boxes and insulated bags take up a lot of room. If you send your sons’ lunch in a lunch box or insulated bag, it will not be put in the ice chest! It will have to sit out in order to make room for boys’ lunches that were packed in a Ziploc bag. Scouts with food allergies may bring their lunches to headquarters / first aid to be kept in a separate cooler or the scout may bring their own insulated bag.

If your son does not eat all of his lunch, you may instruct him to place it back in the cooler if you would like him to bring it home. However, any lunches left after all boys have gone will be thrown out. We will not save lunches from one day to the next. So if you want him to bring it home, you and your son must remember to get it out of the cooler at the end of the day.

Other things your camper may want to bring are a personal fan, a personal spray bottle, and quiet games for the lunch hour such as cards. If your child decides to bring a fan or spray bottle, please instruct your child to use it for himself and not to “play” with it. The Unit Leader may take the item if it is causing a disturbance and return it at the end of the day. Boys will have to carry their own items all day long, so they should pack lightly or not bring anything at all!

Boys will be given a plastic water bottle with their name on it the first day of camp. There will be water coolers at every station for the boys to get drinks. The Unit Leader will be responsible for taking the water bottles home for washing at the end of the day and bringing them back the next day. Encourage your boys to drink water!

Sibling Care Pavilion
Children attending the Sibling Care Pavilion may be dropped off at 8:30 a.m. Monday through Thursday, and 11:30 a.m. on Friday. The fee for sibling care is $10.00 per day per sibling staying in sibling care. Parents must check their child in at the Sibling Care Pavilion each day. You will be asked to sign them in and write down any important information such as allergies or helpful tips. Once checked in, the child will receive a colored band to place around his/her ankle. Please explain to the child the importance of keeping this band on their ankle. Since the Sibling Care attendees do not wear camp t-shirts, this is the only way we can tell these kids apart from other children who may come to the park with their parents! Parents with children in sibling care may not leave the park and leave the child in sibling camp.

Kids attending Sibling Care should have their own lunch packed separately from their parents. Lunches should be packed in the same manner as the Cub Scouts lunches (in a Ziploc bag) and will be placed in an ice chest at the Sibling Care Pavilion. Sibling Care attendees will be required to stay in the Sibling Care Pavilion for lunch. They will not be allowed to leave and go to another area to eat lunch. If you would like to have lunch with your child in Sibling Care, simply let your Unit Leader know that you will not be eating with the group and you may join your child in the Sibling Care Pavilion. If for some reason you must leave early, you must check your Sibling Care Attendee out both at the Sibling Care Pavilion and at Headquarters.

Camp Rules and Responsibilities
Important: Please review these rules with your children before arriving at camp, as they will be strictly enforced!

All campers and staff shall follow the following rules, as well as parent volunteers while they are in camp.

1. Parents must remain with their boys until they are checked in.
2. Camp T-shirts, hats and nametags (totems) are to be worn daily. This also includes staff.
3. The Buddy System is in effect at all times. No Cub Scout, Sibling Camper. Or Sibling Care Attendee should go anywhere in camp without his or her Buddy!!!
4. Rocks and sticks are to remain on the ground – a stick or rock that is not picked up or kicked is less likely to be a danger to another camper or you.
5. Knives and flammable objects are forbidden, except for use by leaders.
6. No running in camp, except in designated areas for games and sports.
7. There is absolutely no smoking in camp, parking lots, etc.
8. There is absolutely no alcohol allowed in camp or in the parking lot. If a person arrives drunk they will be asked to leave campgrounds immediately even if they are a leader.
9. Report all cases of child abuse to the Camp Director.
10. No abusive language or inappropriate language should ever be directed towards any camper, staff member or parent volunteer. Inappropriate language includes the phrase, “shut up.”
11. Each area will be run with safety in mind.
12. Unit den walkers will remain with boys till all boys have left, unless other arrangements have been made with the camp director.
13. Parents will pick up boys from the Unit den walkers.

Monthly Theme - Hoop-De-Do

While most Pack's close down for the summer Pack 195 does offer a summertime program. This month's them is Hoop-De-Do!

Jump ball! Free throw! This month, Cub Scouts will have opportunities to play basketball and learn about sportsmanship. Invite a Boy Scout who is a member of his school's basketball team to teach the boys the rules of the game. Hold a pack basketball tournament, making sure to balance out the teams with older and younger boys. It's a good time to start working on the Basketball belt loop and pin. Play other games with hoops.

Some of the purposes of Cub Scouting developed throughthis month’s theme are:
Sportsmanship & Fitness, Cub Scouts will develop better sportsmanship while playing games with others in the den and pack.
Personal Achievement, Cub Scouts will feel a sense of accomplishment as they demonstrate their new skills on the court.
Respectful Relationships, Through interactive games, Cub Scouts' ability to get along and play with others will be strengthened.
The core value highlighted this month is:
Health & Fitness, Boys will learn the benefits of being fit and healthy when playing on a sports team.

Tuesday, June 1, 2010

New Youth Protection Rules Take Effect

Recently, the Boy Scouts of America announced important changes to its Youth Protection policies. The purpose of these changes is to increase awareness of this societal problem and to create even greater barriers to abuse than already exist today in Scouting.

Effective June 1, 2010:
Youth Protection training is required for all BSA registered volunteers, regardless of their position.

New leaders are required to take Youth Protection training before submitting an application for registration. The certificate of completion for this training must be submitted at the time the application is made and before volunteer service with youth begins.

Youth Protection training must be taken every two years. If a volunteer's Youth Protection training record is not current at the time of recharter, the volunteer will not be reregistered.

To find out more about the Youth Protection policies of the Boy Scouts of America and how to help Scouting keep your family safe, see the Parent's Guide in any of the Cub Scouting or Boy Scouting handbooks, or go to http://www.scouting.org/Training/YouthProtection.aspx .

Youth Protection training can be taken by going to the My Scouting website and creating an account, or by logging in with your current account information.

Monday, May 31, 2010

Closing Thoughts

To be good at anything, you have to believe that you can do it, and then practice it until you can. There's no easy way to become an expert. You just have to keep at it, over and over. There will be times you'll think that you just can't make it. But don't give up a task because it seems hard. There are few things worth doing that are easy to do at first.

I hope you had a great month in scouting and I'll see you next month!

Sunday, May 9, 2010

Saturday, May 8, 2010

Cubmaster Minute

Part of the magic of Cub Scouting is the opportunity boys have to try out different talents, such as painting and drawing, music, puppetry, fixing things, landscaping and photography. Let’s always remember to celebrate the courage to try something new, the perseverance to keep practicing till you are really good, and the good sportsmanship to applaud the other guy when it’s his turn to shine.

Wednesday, May 5, 2010

Monthly Theme - In The Spotlight

It's time to perform and be in the spotlight! Dens can make musical instuments to be used in a pack meeting variety show. Dens can create posters annoucing the show and make programs listing the acts. "Commercials" could be videotaped during den meetings and shown between acts. Visit a local newspaper, radio or cable tv station to see how they produce shows. Attend a play or musucal production. This is a good month to work on the Music belt loop and pin.

Some of the purposes of Cub Scouting developed through this month's theme include:
Respectful Relationships. Boys learn that everyone has different talents and appreciating each other's talents is important.
Perseverance. Boys learn that they need time and practice to be ready to perform in front of an audience.

This theme is designed to promote character development by emphasizing these core values:
Cooperation. Performing together requires being able to work together.
Resoucefulness. Scouts learn to use items for props that might otherwise be thrown away.

Friday, April 30, 2010

Closing Thoughts

Baden-Powell said:
"The way to get happiness is by giving out happiness to other people."
That's a good thing to remember this year, the 100th Anniversary of the Boy Scouts of America. I'll see you next month!

Sunday, April 11, 2010

Cubmaster Minute

You all know that the Cub Scout Motto is “Do Your Best.” But if you ever start to feel like you aren’t old enough, important enough, or experienced enough to make a difference, even if you do your best, go outside and look for an ant. Here is a tiny creature that can be squashed underfoot, washed away by a little stream of water, or easily buried by a spoonful of dirt. But he never gives up – wash him away with a little water, and he will struggle back to his feet and search for the ant trail. Buried under a shovel of dirt, he will dig his way out and continue on his way. Put a brick or a leaf in his path, blocking the ant trail, and he will find a way around or over the obstacle and continue on his way. So think of the ant if you are tempted to give up or think you can’t succeed – just pick yourself up, dig your way out, or find a way around, under or over that obstacle – don’t ever give up!

Friday, April 9, 2010

Big Sweep Reminder!

If you are participating in the Big Sweep event on April 24, your pledge money needs to be turned in no later than Thursday, April 15. There will be a committee meeting on April 15 at 7 p.m. at St Paul’s. You can turn it in at that time or give it to your den leader before that date and your den leader can turn it in for you.

Thursday, April 8, 2010

Monthly Theme - Spring Into Action

This month is a good time to spring into action with outdoor activities such as hikes, sports and games; cleaning up litter along ponds, parks or roads; or planting trees for improved habitat. Make plaster casts of the animal tracks you find on your hike. Visit and talk with someone who works with wildlife conservation and visit a fish hatchery, zoo, animal shelter or wildlife sanctuary. As part of your Good Turn for America, take along food and supplies they might need. Build birdhouses, birdbaths, feeding stations, or boxes for nesting materials. Do a community service project with your chartered organization to show your positive attitude in doing your best. This is also a good month to work on your Wildlife Conservation belt loop and pin.

Some of the purposes of Cub Scouting developed through this month’s theme are:
Sportsmanship and Fitness, Cub Scouts will learn the importance of being fit and playing fair while enjoying games and outdoor activities.
Friendly Service, Cub Scouts will demonstrate friendly service through clean up or beautification projects.
Preparation for Boy Scouts, Cub Scouts prepare to be Boy Scouts as they gain more outdoor experiences

The core value highlighted this month is:
Positive Attitude, Boys will see that even a difficult project becomes easier and more often fun if they think they can do it and do their best.
Citizenship, Scouts see that their good works demonstrate their good citizenship.

Monday, March 22, 2010

New Committee Chair

Kim Osborne has accepted the position of Committee Chair. Many thanks to Kim for taking on this critical role. A Co-Chair would also be a good idea so if anyone else was considering this position you may still sign-up and help out in an official capacity.

Please send Kim a thank you if you see her. Remember behind every successful Scout is a supportive parent.

Thanks Kim!

Pack 195 News

March

  • The March Pack meeting will take place on Wednesday, March 24 at the Walkersville Volunteer Fire Department at 6:30 p.m. Pack 1070 will be joining us for a visit from the Air Methods Life Net 8-1 Helicopter which should arrive around 7 p.m. No awards will be given at this Pack meeting.
  • Registration forms for the Big Sweep need to be handed in at this meeting. Dave has e-mailed the registration, collection and donor receipt forms out to everyone so please bring your completed registration forms to this meeting. Parents do not need to register, unless they want a t-shirt. Anyone wanting a t-shirt needs to collect at least $35 in donations.
  • Registration forms for day camp to be held June 14-18 will be handed out. Completed forms with payment are due at the April 22 pack meeting. Cost is $150 for cubs. Adults wanting to attend need to complete a medical form as well. Tiger Cubs please note that a parent does not need to attend as Tigers will have moved to the next rank by then.

April

  • The April committee meeting will take place on Thursday, April 15 at 7:00 p.m. at St Paul’s Lutheran Church. All parents are invited to attend. Collection forms and donations for the Big Sweep are due at this meeting or give to your den leader before this to bring to the committee meeting.
  • Saturday, April 17 will be a 3 mile Webelos hike. Location and time to be determined. All Pack members are invited to attend.
  • April’s Pack meeting will take place on Thursday, April 22 at 7 p.m. at St Paul’s Lutheran Church. The theme is Spring in Action. Completed day camp forms and payment are due at this meeting.
  • Pack 195 will be participating in the Big Sweep on Saturday, April 24. We will be picking up trash on Monocacy Boulevard from Route 26 to the Monocacy River including the soccer fields. Time TBD. Breakfast will be served for participants from 7:30 a.m. until 9:00 a.m. at the Frederick Elks Lodge at 289 Willowdale Drive. This event is held rain or shine and is a fundraiser for the pack and your child’s pack account.

May

  • Pack 195 will visit the Air and Space Museum at Dulles Airport in Virginia on Saturday, May 8. Time TBD. Admission is free but there is a $12 parking fee so carpooling is encouraged.
  • The pack will do a spring recruitment at the spring fairs at Glade Elementary and Walkersville Elementary. Anyone with information on the dates and times of these events should contact Dave.
  • The May committee meeting will take place on Thursday, May 20 at St. Paul’s at 7 p.m. All parents are invited to attend.
  • Thursday, May 27 at 7:00 p.m. will be the May Pack meeting at Heritage Park in Walkersville. In the event of bad weather, we will meet at St. Paul’s as usual.
    June
  • We will have a picnic on Saturday, June 5. Location and time to be finalized but probably at Heritage Park in the afternoon. The pack will provide the meat and each den will be given a category of items to bring such as desserts or salads, etc. Our bridging ceremony will take place at this event for all moving up to the next rank.
  • Day Camp will take place June 14-18.

July/August

  • The pack will hold 2 events each month. Cubs get credit toward a summer activity award if they attend one event in June, July and August.
  • Cub World at Camp Snyder In Virginia will take place in July or August. Dave will be sending an e-mail to pack members shortly asking them to vote for their 1st, 2nd and 3rd choice of dates. Please do not vote unless you have a real interest in attending so as to not skew the results. Choices will be July 16-18, August 6-8, and August 13-15. Cost will depend upon time of registration. Early registration is $210 scout/$100 parent, $230 scout/$120 parent for normal registration, and $250 scout/$140 parent for late registration. Not all scouts will need a parent in attendance but we do need a ratio of parents to scouts so we will need a few parents to attend. Dave and several pack members attended last year and everyone highly recommends this event.
  • The pack will have a July event at the Walkersville Carnival. Date and Time TBD. Will take place on an “all you can ride for one price” night.
  • Other possible events for the summer are a battlefield visit to either Gettysburg or Antietam and a visit to Arlington National Cemetery. Timing of these will depend on the date selected by the pack for Cub World at Camp Snyder.

Other Pack News

  • Dave Toohey has accepted the position of Assistant Cubmaster. Many thanks to Dave for taking on this leadership position. Another assistant would be ideal so please contact Dave if you are interested in learning more.
  • Kim Osborne has accepted the position of Committee Chair. Many thanks to Kim for taking on this critical role. A Co-Chair would also be a good idea so if anyone else was considering this position you may still sign-up and help out in an official capacity.
  • Your help is needed in many areas. We have many active Webelo parents who will be moving to Boy Scouts over the next year so now is the time for parents of younger scouts to step up and become more active. Thank you for your consideration!

Cub Leader Training

  • I am working on getting both Committee Chair and Cubmaster Training offered at the April Roundtable. Anyone interested in taking this trianing should go to www.myscouting.org and create an account and complete the This is Scouting and Youth protection training first.

Dates to Remember


March 24 –Pack meeting, Big Sweep Registration Due

April 15 – Committee Meeting, Big Sweep Collection Forms and Money Due

April 17 – Webelo hike, all invited

April 22 – Pack meeting, Day Camp forms and payment due

April 24 – Big Sweep

May 8 – Visit to Air and Space Museum

May 20 –Committee Meeting

May 27 – Pack Meeting

June 5 – Pack Picnic and Bridge Ceremony

June 14-18 – Day Camp

Friday, March 12, 2010

Cubmaster Minute

The words, "Aim for the Stars" have an important meaning to Cub Scouts. Think of Thomas Edison who tried and failed hundreds of times before he perfected the electric light bulb. He never quit trying. A Cub Scout, who tries to do his best and keeps trying, is preparing himself for greater responsibilities when he becomes a man. What you do and how well you do it becomes your launching pad to "Aim for the Stars."

Wednesday, March 10, 2010

Asssitant Cubmaster

I am proud to announce that David Toohey has decided to take on the position of Assistant Cubmaster!

Welcome aboard David!

The offer still stands though, a couple more Assistant Cubmasters would be ideal.

Also the Committee Chair position is still open. As I noted earlier now would be the perfect opportunity to step into this important and exciting position. Don't think you can do it all on your own? Well you don't have to, that's why you have a committee, but that doesn't mean you can't talk one of your other Den Parents into helping you Co-Chair the position.

Think about it...and I'm sure you'll agree. The time you spend now, will pay off major dividends in your son's future.

Super Derby

Date: March 13th, 2010

Time: RACING STARTS AT 12:00 pm (NOON)

Location: St Timothy's Catholic Church 8651 Biggs Ford Rd.,Walkersville, MD, 21793 (Pack 1070 has reserved it for us!)

Particulars:
March 12th, 2010 - 7:00-9:00 pm Pre Check-In
March 13th, 2010 - 6:00-9:00 am site setup9:00am to 12:00 Noon. Final Check-In

RACING STARTS AT 12:00 pm


Going to Super Derby from our pack are!
Webelos:
1. Dylan Funk
2.Tyler Thomason
3. Hayden Stinson

Cub Scouts:
1. Nick Powers
2. Shaun KewalRamani
3. Michael Vizas

Tigers:
1. Kaleb Everett
2. Zack Waters
3. Matthew Toohey

Monthly Theme - Take Flight

Air has the power to push and pull objects so fast that they can fly. This month learn all about air and why it is needed to fly. Learn about gravity. Make your own flying machines and learn about the Wright brothers. Figure out which types of paper airplanes fly further, higher, faster and longer, and why. Hold a pack-wide plane derby fun night! How many things can you name that can fly? Study birds and their flyways. Why do some birds fly in a V formation? Hold a den or pack kite derby this month. Take a field trip to the airport or a science museum. Earn the Science belt loop and pin.

Some of the purposes of Cub Scouting developed through this month’s theme are:

Sportsmanship and Fitness. Boys will demonstrate good sportsmanship while participating in the pack kite derby or paper airplane derby.

Fun and Adventure. Cub Scouts will explore the exciting world of flight.

Personal Achievement. Boys will feel a sense of pride as they watch their creations take to the air.

The core values highlighted this month is:

Courage. Cub Scouts will learn of the courage it takes to follow one's dreams.

Health and Fitness. The outdoor activities of early Spring lend themselves to promoting health and fitness.

Can you think of others?

Friday, February 19, 2010

Two Key Positions are Vacant! Please Help Fill Them!

Pack 195 has two openings that are crucial to the success of the Pack.

The first opening is Committee Chair. Our current Committee Chair felt that she just did not have the time to continue on in this capacity, while her husband is working out of state.

The Pack Committee Chair job is to:
- Maintain a close relationship with the chartered organization representative, keeping this key person informed of the needs of the pack that must be brought to the attention of the organization or the district.
- Report to the chartered organization to cultivate harmonious relations.
- Confer with the Cubmaster on policy matters relating to Cub Scouting and the chartered organization.
- Supervise pack committee operation by
- Calling and presiding at pack leaders' meetings.
- Assigning duties to committee members.
- Planning for pack charter review, roundup, and reregistration.
- Approving bills before payment by the pack treasurer.
- Conduct the annual pack program planning conference and pack leaders' meetings.
- Complete pack committee Fast Start Training and Basic Leader Training for the position.
- Ask the committee to assist with recommendations for Cubmaster, assistant - Cubmasters, Tiger Cub den leaders, Cub Scout den leaders, and Webelos den leaders, as needed.
- Recognize the need for more dens, and see that new dens are formed as needed.
- Work with the chartered organization representative to provide adequate and safe facilities for pack meetings.
- Cooperate with the Cubmaster on council-approved money-earning projects so the pack can earn money for materials and equipment.
- Manage finances through adequate financial records.
- Maintain adequate pack records and take care of pack property.
- If the Cubmaster is unable to serve, assume active direction of the pack until a successor is recruited and registered.
- Appoint a committee member or other registered adult to be responsible for Youth Protection training.
- Provide a training program for adult family members.
- Develop and maintain strong pack-troop relationships, sharing with the troop committee the need for graduations into the troop.
- Work closely with the unit commissioner and other pack and troop leaders in bringing about a smooth transition of Webelos Scouts into the troop.
- Help bring families together at joint activities for Webelos dens (or packs) and Boy Scout troops.
- Support the policies of the BSA.
Essentially the Committe Chair's job along with the Committee is to Run The Pack!

As you can see this is an important position to have filled in the Pack, and I as the Cubmaster cannot do both jobs. I've been trying for a few weeks and it just isn't possible - despite the "cool, calm and collected" disposition I display at the meetings. LOL

The second position is Assistant Cubmaster.

The Assistant Cubmaster's responsibilites (as designated by the Cubmaster) are to:
- Help the Cubmaster as needed. Be ready to fill in for the Cubmaster, if necessary.
- Complete Cubmaster Fast Start Training and position-specific Basic Leader Training. Attend monthly roundtables.
- Participate in pack meetings.
- Supervise den chiefs and see that they are trained.
- Conduct the monthly den chief planning meeting for all den �leaders, assistant den leaders, and den chiefs to plan and coordinate weekly den meetings and pack meeting participation.
- Work with neighborhood troops that supply den chiefs and into which Webelos Scouts may graduate.
- Help inform pack leaders of training opportunities and arrange for them to attend training sessions.
- Work with the pack committee to develop and promote an ongoing plan for recruiting new boys.
- Work with the Cubmaster and pack committee on pack reregistration.
- Help with pack activities, such as dinners, derbies, bike safety workshops, service projects, etc.
- Work with the pack committee on outings to see that the pack and dens qualify for the National Summertime Pack Award.
- Participate in the annual pack program planning conference and pack leaders' meetings.
- Promote the religious emblems program.
- Support the policies of the BSA.
In fact having two or three Assistant Cubmasters would be ideal, allowing us to divide responsibilities. At least one Assistant Cubmaster should be able to replace the Cubmaster's position in case of an emergency. The Assistant Cubmaster is recommended by the Cubmaster, approved by the pack committee and chartered organization, and registered as an adult leader of the BSA.

Both of these positions are adult positions so the applicant must be at least 18 years of age. Also both of these positions require the holder to be fully trained, the good news is that you can get this training in one day in March - Saturday, March 6, 2010 by contacting Vicky Carswell: cubpack570@hotmail.com

If you or if you know of another adult in the Pack that would be great for either of these positions, please do not hesitate to contact me.

Thank You

Monday, February 8, 2010

Cubmaster Minute

A badge in Cub Scouting is a piece of embroidered cloth. If you were to try to sell one of these badges, you'd find that it wouldn't bring much money. The real value of the badge is what it represents … the things you've learned to earn it … how to keep healthy, how to be a good citizen, good safety practices, conservation, and many new skills. Does your badge truly represent all these things? Were you prepared to meet each test at the time you passed it, or did you try to get by? Maybe you were prepared when you passed the test, but through laziness and neglect, you have forgotten the skill now. If this is true, then the badge you wear has little value.

Don't wear a cheap badge. Wear one that has real value… one that represents what you can really do and know.

Wednesday, February 3, 2010

A Lone Scout Leads the Way

Sometime during 1909, William D Boyce, a wealthy newspaper publisher in London England, during a stop in London on his way to the British East Africa for a safari, lost his way in the city. An unknown young man offered to help and lead him to his hotel. As was probably his habit, Mr. Boyce offered a tip to the young man who had come to his aid. The young man refused the tip, explaining he could not take money for doing a “good turn,” because he was a Scout.

Mr. Boyce must have asked questions about this organization as he was given the address to the Scout Headquarters. Later on a return trip to London, William D
Boyce went to the Scout Headquarters and collected information about the Scouting program founded by Lord Baden-Powell. Once back in the United States W D Boyce incorporated the Boy Scouts of America on 8 February 1910.

The Boy Scouts of American owes its roots to several groups, including Baden-Powell’s Scouts as well as the Sons of Daniel Boone formed in 1905 by Daniel “Uncle Dan” Beard and the Woodcraft Indians formed by Ernest Thompson Seton about 1901 to 1902. Even Baden-Powell based his organization on an earlier organization know as the
Boys’ Brigade formed by William Alexander Smith in 1883, who was influenced by the YMCA.

After the Boy Scouts of America was incorporated, they began to absorb the other similar groups, including the Sons of Daniel Boone and the Woodcraft Indians. W D Boyce included others in the Boy Scout movement to help it grow. That included Daniel Beard, Ernest Thompson Seton, William T. Hornaday, and James West. There was
disagreements among the principals and W D Boyce created the Lone Scouts of America (LSA) and the Rhode Island Boy Scouts, (RIBS). Joseph Lane, a member of RIBS started the Boys Life in 1911, which was purchased a year later by BSA. The LSA and RIBS were later absorbed into BSA. The RIBS exist today and the Narragansett Council of
the Boy Scouts of America.

No one may ever know who that lone Boy Scout was that dark night in 1909 who helped William D Boyce. But there is no doubt he was the match that struck the fire to the carefully prepared foundation that would become the Boy Scouts of America. As we look back, we must be thankful for that “divine spark” that continues to burn one hundred years later. Happy Birthday Boy Scouts of America, and Thank you Lone Scout.

Tuesday, February 2, 2010

Monthly Theme: Happy Birthday BSA!

It's time to celebrate with a big birthday bash: the Boy Scouts of America is 100 years old this year. Learn the history of how Scouting came to the United States. Find out about those who have given us this great Scouting legacy, such as Daniel Carter Beard, James W. West, Ernest Thompson Seton, Waite Phillips and W.D.Boyce. Let's play birthday games, make party decorations, and have birthday cake for our Blue & Gold Banquet.

Some of the purposes of Cub Scouting through this month's theme include:
Preparation for Boy Scouting. Learning about the history of Scouting helps Cub Scouts prepare for their next adventures as Boy Scouts.
Citizenship. Boys learn about the character of those who started the Scouting movement.
The core values highlighted this month are:

Honesty. Cub Scouts learn that when they are true and honest with themselves, being true and honest with others will quickly follow.
Faith. With family guidance Cub Scouts develop in their own faith.


Character Connections - Honesty

In the Pack: Explain Honesty and the activity. Do the same activity with 3-5 family members. Encourage families to continue activity at home to instill value at home.

In the Den: Know: Webster says: (noun) Integrity; truthfulness; sincerity; free from deception; trustworthy.

Practice: At beginning of each meeting this month, ask: “who had a situation this week where it was a challenge to be honest?” Boys share what happened. Have “Honesty Under Pressure” awards ready to hand out to all boys in den. Each week will probably increase. Boys will want to earn the award.

Commit: Boys fill out journaling page, committing to what they have learned about being honest.

Tuesday, January 26, 2010

Pinewood Derby Info

Race Day is Saturday, January 30, 2010!

Don't miss out!

Our Agenda for Saturday is:
Race Staff show up at 9:15

Check - In 10:00
(Please do not be late. Late check-ins hold up everyone in your group.)

***PLEASE Enter the Socail Hall via the stairs and Side Door of the building. The Large Double doors will be located behind the track start location and we need to minimize foot traffic around the laptops and cableing***

Opening Flag Ceremony 10:30

Announcements 10:32

Pack Awards 10:45

Tigers Start Racing 11:00 [All times are estimates, some groups may finish early some may run longer.]

Cub Scouts (Bears and Wolves) 11:30

Webelos 12:00

Adults 12:30

Siblings 1:00

Closing Ceremony 1:30

Clean-up 1:35


We will be running an impound race format, meaning that once your cars is checked in you will not get it back until the Blue & Gold Banquet OR until after the Super Derby in March. (This rule excludes Adult and Sibling cars)

Who we send to the Super Derby
1st, 2nd, and 3rd place Tigers
1st, 2nd, and 3rd place Cub Scouts
1st, 2nd, and 3rd place Webelos

Awards, Trophys, Car Placement, Stats, Etc will be awarded/announced at the Blue & Gold Banquet.

NOTE: IF you wish to build and race a car in the Open Class / Sibling Class race at the Super Derby you need to register your entry PRIOR to Tuesday, February 9, 2010 so that the Super Derby committee knows how many Trophy's, etc to purchase. Cost for this class if $5.00 per car.
Pinewood derby track set-up will take place Friday evening beginning at 7:00 PM with a work group getting the track out of storage at my house and loading the track into trucks for transport to the race location. Set-up at the race location will begin about 7:20 PM and end about 10:30 PM

Thursday, January 7, 2010

Cubmaster Minute

What is the most powerful thing you can think of? Is it a locomotive that can pull a hundred railroad cars? Or is it a mighty rocket with giant engines that roar and belch fire? Is it a nuclear energy plant with enough power to light up a whole city? Or is it the sun, with enough energy to warm a whole planet?
As powerful as all these things are, there is a limit to their energy. A locomotive and a rocket can run out of fuel, and the fuel rods of a nuclear plant wear out after a while. Even the sun sets after a few hours, leaving half the world cold and in darkness.
But there is another power source that never runs out of energy and that will never leave us in the cold. That power is God, and it’s important that we learn how to connect with God’s power. We learn how to do that by regularly attending our place of worship and living by the values we learn there.
Why don’t you ‘plug in’ to the greatest power in the universe by worshipping God this week.

Monday, January 4, 2010

Monthly Theme: Power up!

Boys explore the science of energy through solar, electrical and wind power and how this energy is used in everyday life. They can explore different ways to conserve energy and protect the world we live in. Work on the Science or Weather belt loop and pin. Boys can invite friends to join in the pinewood derby and discover power behind those little cars. What type of things are powered up by the flip of a switch? A field trip to the local waterworks or power plant might be a part of a den's monthly plan. Finish the month with a real power-packed pack meeting. The boys can power up by being physically fit and working on the Physical Fitness belt loop and pin.

Some of the purposes of Cub Scouting developed through this month’s theme are:

Good Citizenship. Cub Scouts will see that a small act of conservation can have a large impact upon their community.
Family Understanding. Family relationships will be stronger as Cub Scouts and their-families work together on energy conservation.
Fun and Adventure. Boys will enjoy exploring various forms of energy through games and activities.
Sportsmanship. With the competitive environment of a pinewood derby, boys should strive to demonstrate good sportsmanship at all times.
The core values highlighted this month are:
Responsibility. Cub Scouts will learn to be more dependable in conserving our natural resources.
Compassion. The boys will learn compassion for all the pinewood derby participants, winners and losers alike.