Newsletter - 2004 - April

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Games / Activities

Animal Calls : Boys see who can do the best animal impersonations.  Can be for fun or judged for prizes.

Animal Relay : Each member of a team is allocated a different animal. He must then move across the hall in the style of that animal.

Birds on a Telephone Line : Divide the group into two relay teams. String a clothesline from one side to the other at shoulder height of the average person. Clip 20 or more round topped clothespins onto the clothesline. (The pins are the birds and the clothesline is the telephone line) On signal, the first person in each team runs to the line, removes a pin with his teeth (no hands!), brings it back to his team and drops it into a sack. The first team finished wins.

Bull Riding: Make bulls out of cardboard boxes.  Boxes should have a hole cut in the top and the bottom flaps folded in so the Cub can stand in the box.  Cardboard cutouts can make horns and bull faces.  The Cub picks the box up with one hand while standing in the hole.  He must buck himself for eight seconds.  Done for fun.  Boys sometimes buck themselves off!

Cat and Mouse: Organize the players into a rectangular grid, or maze, spaced so that they stand two arms lengths away from their partners in all 4 directions.  Start with all the players facing in the same direction with their arms spread to their sides - this should create a number of rows. On the command 'Turn' everyone should turn round 90° - don't be too worried which way just as long as it is a quarter turn. This changes the maze from rows to columns.  Two players a 'cat' and a 'mouse' will run around the maze, the cat trying to catch and tag the mouse. They may run around the maze and along the lines of arms but must not pass or stretch across them. You can shout 'Turn' at any point during the game to change the maze. When the mouse is caught start again with another pair or start with a new mouse and allow the old mouse to 'grow' to a cat.

Catch the Frog Egg : Split the pack evenly in two and assemble one team in a circle holding hands and the other team in a line.  A leader positioned in the middle of the circle throws a ball to each boy in turn and counts the number of consecutive catches made. If anyone drops the ball counting starts again from zero.  Meanwhile the team in a line runs 'relay fashion' around the circle and back to the line to tag the next player. This acts as a timer. Once all the Cubs have run the teams swap over. The team with the highest number of consecutive catches wins.  Variation: total the number of catches in each run attempt.  Team with the highest total wins.

Centipede Relay : Cub 1 of the team runs up hall and back, he puts one hand between his legs for the Cub 2 to hold. They run up hall and back together, cub 3 joins chain etc. Team penalized if chain breaks - must start again.  Variation:  Instead of holding hands the team holds onto a pole.

Cross the River :  Line up in teams with their equipment and draw two lines to represent the river. Lay “stepping stones” (pieces of paper) across the river. Cub 1 carries Cub 2 on his back across the river using the stepping stones. Cub 2 comes back and picks up Cub 3 plus a piece of equipment. Cub 3 comes back and picks up Cub 4 plus a piece of equipment and so on until all the Cubs have crossed the river. 

Donkey Race : Two boys straddle a broomstick, back to back. On signal, one runs forward and the other runs backwards about 50 ft. They then run back to the starting line, but this time they change positions (forward becomes backward runner) then the next two team members go.

Feather Relay : Each player throws a long feather javelin style, toward the finish line. As soon as it comes to earth, he picks it up and throws it again, and continues until across the finish line. He then picks it up and runs back to his team to give the feather to the next player.  Variation: each team member makes a paper airplane to use instead of the feather.

Fish in the Sea : All players but one stand behind a line. "IT" stands midway between the line and a goal line thirty feet away. He shouts "Fish in the ocean, fish in the sea; don't get the notion you'll get by me." The fish leave their line and try to cross the goal line without being tagged. Players who are tagged join "IT" and help catch others.

Flapping Fish Relay : Players must waft a paper cutout of a fish (1' length) across the hall and back using the newspaper as a fan. 

Hog Calling : Call the pigs in from the field for dinner!

In the Pond : Mark a big circle on the ground. This is the pond. The whole group stands around the edge. The leader is the referee. When he shouts "In the Pond," you all jump into the circle. When he shouts "On the Bank," you all jump out. But sometimes he will try and trick you by saying "On the Pond" or "In the Bank”.  Anyone who moves, on a wrong order, is out of the game.

Poison Pole: Link hands around a pole (Den flag).  Circle members try to pull others into contact with the pole.

Skin the Snake: Team members stand one behind the other with legs apart and pass their right hands between the legs to grasp the left hands of those behind.  Starting at the back, members crawl through the legs of those in front of them, without letting go of hands, until the whole team is standing in a line holding hands.

Thar She Blows !: Cubs representing the rocks in the sea are placed at random around the room and cannot move.  One Cub is the whale.  A beanbag or soft ball is the harpoon.  Cubs must pass the harpoon to one another in an attempt to get the whale harpooned.  The Cub who harpoons the whale is the next whale.

Turtle Tag: To insure safety, a player must be on his back with all four feet in the air. The boy who is "it" counts to ten and all turtles (other boys) must hop up and run at least ten steps before again assuming the turtle position. If "it" can tag a player before he is "safe" they exchange places and the other boy becomes "it".

Wolf : The boys stand in a circle with the "Wolf" in the center. Boys call "Wolf, Wolf, are you ready?"  Wolf answers "No, I'm putting on my shoe" and pantomimes putting on his shoes. The other imitates him. Again they ask "Wolf, Wolf, are you ready" and he replies that he is putting on his coat, tie, hat, etc. each time pantomiming putting on the item, while all follow suit. Whenever he wishes, the Wolf answers with "Yes, I'm ready, and here I come". The players rush to a goal line and the Wolf tries to tag them. If any player is tagged, he becomes the Wolf.

Hidden Object (like picking up and finding pollution or discarded waste on hikes)

Equipment: 1 thimble, ring or coin
Formation: Scatter

Send boys out of the room.  Take a thimble, ring or coin and place it where it is perfectly visible but in a spot where it is not likely to be noticed. Let the boys come in and look for it.  When one of them sees it, he should quietly sit down without indicating to the others where it is.  After awhile, if no one else has found it, have him point it out to the group to make sure he really saw it.

Earth, Water, Air and Fire

Equipment: 1 bean bag
Formation: circle

The Pack sit in a circle with one Cub in the center holding the bean bag.  He throws the bag at someone and shouts 'Earth!', 'Water!', 'Air!' or 'Fire!'.   If it is 'Earth', the chosen Cub must reply with the name of the animal, before the center Cub counts to ten.  If it is 'Water!', he must think of a fish, if 'Air!' - a bird and if 'Fire' - whistle for the Fire Engine.

Note: Once a creature has been named, it may not be called again.  If the Cub cannot reply in time, he changes places with the thrower.

Above and Below

Notes:  After some discussion about pollution and what are ways we have polluted out environment, play  this game where you come up with ways we have polluted our environment and ways we are trying to save our environment and are they above or below (meaning is it visible to us).  Example:    Pollution:  litter on highways - above,  Garbage on the floor of the sea - below,  Saving our environment:  Planting a tree - above)

Equipment: None
Formation: Circle

Arrange the players in a circle.  Call out ways we pollute the environment or save our environment that are found above or below.   When you call something that signifies above, the players stand; if below, they sit down.  Failure to do this eliminates the players who miss.  The list of things to be named should be carefully worked out in advance to keep the game going smoothly.

Ceremonies

Campfire Opening

Four Cubs, Webelos or Scouters required, facing the points of the compass with tinder and lighted candles or paper.

NORTH:

SOUTH:

EAST:

WEST:

I bring to this fire tinder from the north and remind all of a Cub Scout's first duty:

Duty to God - to be reverent towards God, to respect the beliefs of others, and to live according to the teaching of his religion.

I bring to this fire tinder from the south and remind all of a Cub Scout's second duty:

Duty to Country - to be a good citizen, living by laws and customs of our nation, and to work together to solve our country's problems.

I bring to this fire tinder from the east and remind all of a Cub Scout's third duty:

Duty to Self- to keep myself physically strong, mentally awake, and morally straight.

I bring to this fire tinder from the west and remind all of a Cub Scout's fourth duty:

Scouting Spirit and how it will show in the way we act and the things we do – and living every day according to the Cub Scout Promise and Law of the Pack we will collectively, with our individual gifts, light OUR campfire.

THE OUTDOOR CODE

PERSONNEL: Poster with the Outdoor Code on it. Have parents repeat the outdoor code. Explain it's meaning.

PACK: As an American, I will do my best to be clean in my outdoor manners.

CUBMASTER: I will treat the outdoors as a heritage to be improved for our greater enjoyment. I will keep my trash and garbage out of America 's waterways, fields and roadways.

PACK:   Be careful with fire.

CUBMASTER  I will prevent wildfire. I will build my fire in a safe place and be sure it is out before I leave.

PACK:  Be considerate of the outdoors.

CUBMASTER:  I will treat public and private property with respect. I will remember that use of the outdoors is a privilege I can lose by abuse.

PACK:   Be conservation minded.

CUBMASTER:  I will learn how to practice good conservation of soil, water, forests, minerals, grasslands and wildlife. I will urge others to do the same. I will use sportsman like methods in all my outdoor activities.

Now Sing "America, the Beautiful."

I Am The World

NARRATOR: I am the world - Some call me mother nature.  I am the mountains and the valleys and the land and the seas. All living things exist in me from the birds of the air to the fish in the waters.  You see me in the beauty of the flowers and in the glory of the trees.  When ever you roam to see the wonders of the world, the animals, the plants. the moon, the stars.,  all that is pleasant to see, remember that man is the only one who can really keep this world of nature for the next generation to see   (Ask Cubs and parents to recite together, "The Conservation Pledge"):

"I give my pledge, as an American, to save and faithfully to defend from waste, the natural resources of my country, its soil and minerals, it forest and waters, and its wildlife."

Cub Scout Campfire Opening Ceremony

EQUIPMENT: Real or artificial campfire, seven candles.

PERSONNEL: Narrator and seven Cub Scouts (each with his part written on a dip paper).

NARRATOR Welcome to the Cub Scout campfire. Akela is among us. Let us draw from this campfire with all its vibrance and warmth, the secrets of Cub Scouting and the spirit of brotherhood.

CUB 1: In its light we see new chances to be helpful and to do our best.

CUB 2: From its warmth we strengthen the bonds of fellowship and learn how to get along with others.

CUB 3: From the stones that ring the fire and keep its power in check, we learn how we can curb our tempers and become good citizens.

CUB 4: From the smoke that rises out of the fire, we learn to lift our eyes upward and worship God.

CUB 5: The spark that started this fire reminds us that little Good Turns can lead to greater deeds.

CUB 6: Just as the fire needs wood to bum brightly, so do we need the care and love of our parents to bum brightly.

CUB 7: In its leaping flames, we see the fun of Cub Scouting and the job of life.

Advancement Ceremonies

Leaves On The Tree Limb - Advancement

Props: A several-branched tree limb (bare) set in a can of plaster or sand. Green construction paper leaves (as many as there are boys receiving awards.)

CUBMASTER: This tree is a symbol of the natural beauty of our land. It also provides oxygen to our air and is a buffer against sun and wind.  Mother Nature requires a long time to grow a beautiful tree. It requires nurturing such as sunshine and water and the protection from harm.

This tree represents our Cub Scouting program.  In order for it to flourish and be protected, much time and effort must be spent by Cub Scouts and their parents.  The boys receiving awards tonight have given time and effort, as have their parents. As each of you receive your award, you will place a leaf on our tree, and you will be able to see how much more attractive it is because of you.

(Calls forward boys and parents receiving Wolf awards and arrow points, then Bear awards and arrow points; then Webelos activity badges. After all awards have been presented and leaves added to tree), the Cubmaster says:

CUBMASTER: You have each helped nurture this tree, and it has become a part of you. Just as Mother Nature's trees endure for many years, you have gained values through your achievements and electives which will last you a lifetime. May you always stand tall and straight like a tree...and be a beautiful resource of our land.

Cub Scout Seedling

STAGING: Cardboard trees and bushes in background.

CUBMASTER: Do you see that tree in my backyard.  My first den & I planted that tree as a seedling the first year my oldest joined Cub Scouts.  Look at it now!   We did it as a conservation project to show how we can help our environment.

ASST CM:  WOW,  it sure has grown!!

CUBMASTER: A young Bobcat starting his Cub Scouting adventure may be like a young seedling  just starting to grow like that one used to be in my backyard.  We have several Cub Scouts that have earned the Bobcat rank.

ASST CM: Will the following boys and their parents please join us in the backyard. (Reads names)

CUBMASTER: These Cubs, like a planted seedling,  have just started. Parents, I give you the Bobcat Badge to present to your sons.

CUBMASTER:  A young Wolf  has gone beyond the bobcat, like the seedling becoming a tree. His limbs extends high and becomes visible to the neighborhood reaching out to see and learn.

ASST CM: We have several Cub Scouts tonight that have earned the Wolf Badge, the second rank in Cub Scouting.

Will the following boys and their parents come into the backyard. (Read Wolf names)

CUBMASTER: A Wolf Cub has accomplished more than the Bobcat. His experiences, skills, and knowledge have begun to extend beyond his home and has become visible to others. Parents, please present these Wolf Badges to your sons.

CUBMASTER: The Bear Scout, the third rank of Cub Scouting, has continued up the Scouting trail beyond the Wolf.  He has become strong and straight as a young tree, not fully grown yet, but on his way. His search extends beyond his neighborhood into the town and country.   His experiences could be fishing in a creek, a hike through town, or visit to local park or zoo. We have several Cub Scouts that have met the challenges of the Bear and will receive their awards tonight.

ASST CM: Will the following Cub Scouts and parents join us. (Read names)

CUBMASTER: The Bear Scout has matured and endured the challenges of the Cub Scout trail. His experiences and knowledge are nearly complete. His backyard is beyond his neighborhood. Parents please present these badges to your sons.

CUBMASTER: The Webelos Scout is coming to the end of the Cub Scout Trail. He is a fully grown tree in the Cub Scout forest. He stands straight and tall.  His backyard extends up and down the highways. His fun may include Canoeing at a Cub Scout camp,  hiking in the woods, and camping overnight. We have several Cub Scouts here tonight that have met the Webelos challenges.

ASST CM: Will the following boys and their parents join us in our backyard.

CUBMASTER: The Webelos Scouts have almost completed the Cub Scout trail. They are knowledgeable, skillful, and confident. His backyard is almost limitless. Parents please present these badges to your sons.

Advancement Ceremonies

Have you ever wondered why most of the ranks in Cub Scouting are named tier animals? Think about the animals Bobcat, Wolf and Bear for a moment. What images come to mind? The Bobcat is a little smaller than most of his cousins in the wild cat family, but his features, especially his ever-alert ears, make him very distinctive and his movements are sleek and swift. We have several Bobcat Cubs here tonight who swiftly tracked the seven steps of what it takes to be a Cub Scout. Would the following boys and their parents please come forward? (Call the names of the boys who are to be awarded the Bobcat rank) The Wolf is a very intelligent animal and is known for his loyalty to the pack. He is quick to defend his territory much like a Cub Scout who is quick to stand up for what he believes is right. Would the following boys and their parents please come forward to accept the rank of wolf? (Call the names of the Cubs advancing.) The Bear is one of the largest animals on our continent and for that reason is often feared, his strength is legendary and his senses are keen, but if you watch him closely you will probably see he has a sense of humor and likes to play. He also knows how to plan ahead as we see in his preparations for winter.

We have some Cubs here tonight who have proven their strength and sharpened their senses and are now ready to be awarded the Rank of Bear. Would the following boys and their parents please come forward? (Call the names of the boys who are to be awarded the Rank of Bear.) The Webelos rank may not be named after an animal, but it does stand for something special. Who can tell me what Webelos means? Pause for response.) Right!

We'll be loyal Scouts. Part of being a Scout is being a friend to animals--a protector of their homes and their right to survive. Webelos are apprentice outdoorsmen, foresters and naturalists and they are learning what it means to be a Boy Scout. Would the following boys and their parents please come forward to be awarded the Rank of Webelos? (Call the names of the new Webelos.) Boys who have attained the rank of Arrow of Light have made a commitment to live their lives by the Scout Oath. This commitment makes them the living of the Forest, the Ruler of the Roost, the Leader of the Pack. Would the following candidates and their parents please come forward for the presentation of the Arrow of Light awards. (Call the names of the boys who are to be presented their Arrows of Light.)

Closing Ceremonies

Conservation Closing

Cubmaster (holding picture of outdoor scene): All of this great and beautiful America is ours to enjoy. Surely we want to preserve it for the thousands of boys who will come after us. Let us stand and repeat in unison a pledge that will remind us to conserve these wonderful things for those who follow us. (Repeat the outdoor code.)

OUTDOOR CODE:

As an American, I will do my best to:
Be clean in my outdoor manners,
Be careful with fire,
Be considerate in the outdoors,
And be conservation minded.

Nature And The Good Visitor

COMMITTEE CHAIRMAN: Our pack meeting tonight brought us all together to think about nature. We can enjoy the great outdoors but we must think of others who will follow us. Wherever you go in the great wide world of nature, try to be a "good" visitor who will leave the plants and the creatures for others to enjoy after you leave.

FIRST CUB: The only shots I took were snapshots.

SECOND CUB: I tried to walk on pathways to keep off plants.

THIRD CUB: When I see animals or birds, I try to remember that I am a guest in their living place and I don't do anything to them but look at them.

FOURTH CUB: The one big thing I always do when I am ready to go home is to look and see that all fires are out in nature's backyard.

CUBMASTER: With Cubs and Webelos like you to help keep our friends on the ball, I'm sure that the beauties of nature will be around for years to come. Thanks Cubs, Good night.

Closing Ceremony

Cubmaster: The Pledge of Allegiance is always a good way to begin or end a Pack meeting or activity. If it is at night and you forgot to bring your flag, remember there is a US flag standing on the moon, planted there by a former Boy Scout. It is appropriate to stand and salute this flag even though it can only be seen through the imagination. Please join me now in the Pledge of Allegiance.

Closing Thought

God created families. He also created our beautiful world for us to enjoy and care for. We have fun doing things together as families and in Cub Scouting. We have many opportunities to work and play together. Today let us be thankful for our own families and God's beautiful world in which we live.

Good Night Closing Thought

No matter where you live, there is a world of undiscovered secrets of nature still waiting to be explored. A naturalist is a student of nature. This month our dens have gone on Outdoor Adventures to find what was waiting for them. There are many more interesting activities to help each of you Cub Scouts learn more about the world of nature and to develop an appreciation for it. One who studies nature stands like Columbus on the prow of his ship with a vast continent before him...except that the naturalist's world can be at his very feet . . . a world to be investigated and discovered. It is as near as your own backyard, a nearby park, the woods and fields, or even a country road. These places are inhabited by many kinds of insects, birds, plants, animals, trees and other forms of life.

Continue exploring the world of nature and you will find many wonderful things that we have been given to enjoy. Think of the words of the song “America the Beautiful” for a moment. Oh beautiful for spacious skies, for amber waves of grain, for purple mountain majesties above the fruited plain.. . . . . . This is what God has given us--nature's beauty. This is what we as Cub Scouts and Scouters will work to conserve, protect and enjoy.

Skits / Applauses / Fables / Songs

Cheers

SOLID AS A ROCK AWARD - For the person who is solid in the Scouting Program. Just find a rock and give it to the person. The rock can be a unique shape or it can be embellished for the occasion.

ORDER OF THE BEAR AWARD - FOR SOMEONE WHO HAS DONE A “BEARRY” GOODJOB . - Draw a Bear on a piece of cardboard or glue a stuffed bear on a piece of wood.

YOU'RE TREMENDOUS - for someone who has done a tremendous job for you. Cut out a tree from green poster board and glue it on a piece of cardboard.

GOLDEN ACORN AWARD - for someone who's either a little nutty or who has done an outstanding job for the Pack or Den. Glue an acorn that has been painted gold on a piece of wood.

NUTTIN IS BETTER THAN SCOUTING AWARD - this can be used as a general award or recognition for anyone who has done anything for Scouting. Glue an acorn peanut, walnut, etc. on a tongue depressor, orange juice can lid, or piece of wood.

WE COULD KNOT DO IT WITHOUT YOU AWARD - Tie a small square knot out of rope and glue it on a plaque.

STICK-IN-THE-MUD AWARD -This is for that special someone who hasn't given their all or tried their best at something. This should be extremely light hearted, so as not to embarrass or belittle anyone. Put a small stick in the middle of brown clay.

DAY CAMP CHAIRPERSON OR DRIVERS - Buy a miniature mini-van or make one from cardboard and personalize it.

SPIDER APPLAUSE ; Walk all four fingers of one hand up the other arm and then scream ‘EEEEEKK!”

Run-On's

Just in case you find yourself in the woods with nothing to do, think about these riddles:

What flowers does everyone wear all year-around? (two lips)

When is a baseball player like a spider? (when he catches a fly)

What's the difference between an oak tree and a tight shoe? (one makes acorns, the other makes corns ache)

What tree does everyone carry on their hand? (palm)

Why is a dog's tail like the heart of a tree? (it's farthest from the bark)

What kind of bird is present at every meal? (the swallow)

Why is the letter A like a sweet flower? (because a B (bee) is always after it)

What tree will keep you warm? (fir)

A bear walks two miles west, two miles south, two miles east and ends up in the exact spot he began.

what color is the bear? (The bear is white! He must be at the North Pole if he ends up in the same spot at which he began, and bears at the North Pole are white)

How far can you walk into the woods? (You can only walk halfway into the woods. After that you're walking out of the woods)

Elephant Repellent

1st scout enters spreading imaginary elephant repellent.
2nd scout - What are you doing?
1st scout - Spreading elephant repellent.

2nd scout - There aren't any elephants around here.
1 st scout - Does a pretty good job, doesn't it?

A Henway

1 st scout enters petting an imaginary animal - want to pet my henway?

2nd scout - What's a hen weigh?

1st scout - About 3 or 4 pounds.

Skits

Energy Savers

Characters: Six Cub Scouts in uniform; one den leader in uniform.

Setting: Den meeting place, decorated as desired.  Den leader sits at a table.  As skit opens, all “Cub Scouts arrive together and sit down.

Den Leader: Today, let's take turns and tell how we can help to conserve energy in our homes.

Cub Scout 1: I know a good way.  My mom doesn't use her clothes dryer as much as she used to.  She uses a new solar energy device called a clothesline and hangs her laundry outside to dry in the sunshine.

Cub Scout 2: My dad said that if we filled a plastic bottle with water and put it in the tank in the bathroom, it would cut down on the amount of water used for flushing.

Cub Scout 3: Did you know that if you take showers you use a lot less water than if you take baths?  Mom even uses a timer, and we have learned to take 3-minute showers at our house.

Cub Scout 4: We keep the drapes closed on summer days and keep them open for light and warmth in the winter.

Cub Scout 5: We keep the damper in our fireplace closed whenever we aren't using it.  If it's left open in the winter, the warm air in the house escapes up the chimney and that's a waste.

Den Leader: (to last Cub Scout):  Johnny, do you have anything to add about saving energy?  (He turns to see that he is fast asleep.)  I guess Johnny is the best energy saver of us all.  (Curtain)

The Highest Tree Climber In The World

Again, this can be a 2-person skit.

Cast:  2 Friends
Setting:  Campfire;  (Tree climber is hidden in the woods and is able to ruffle a bush or tree.)

1:  You know, they say there's this really good tree climber trying out for the Olympics. I wonder if he's practicing around here?

2: Call out and see!

1: Hey! Tree Climber! You around here?

Climber: Yep!

1: You practicing?

Climber:  Yep!

1:  How high are you?

Climber:  Oh, not high.  About 100 feet.

1:  Wow!  Can you go higher?

Climber:  Yep!  (Ruffles tree.)  Now I'm at about 200 feet.

1:  Fantastic!  Can you go higher?

Climber:  Yep!  (Ruffles tree.)  Now I'm at about 275 feet.

1:  Neato!  Can you go higher?

Climber:  Yep!  (Ruffles tree.)  Now I'm at about 325 feet.

1:  Great!  Can you go higher?

Climber:  Yep!  (Ruffles tree.)  Now I'm at about 400 feet.

1:  Gee!  I'm amazed!

2:  Excuse me, Sir, but I have a book here that says that the highest tree in the world is only 360 feet high!

Climber:  Ahhhhhh!!!!!!  (Thump!)

Noise Pollution – Audience Participation Skit

THE FIRE SIREN (Moan)
THE POLICEMAN (Loud Whistle)
THE LIBRARIAN (SSSSh!)
THE DUCKS (Quack-quack)
THE DOG (Arf, Arf)
THE CHICKENS (Bok-Bok-Bok)
THE PIGS (Snort, Oink)
TWO BOYS (sing, Row, Row, Row your Boat)

(If there is room, appropriate motions can accompany the sounds, such as marching feet for the boys, flapping wings for chickens, etc.)

Narrator:

It was a beautiful spring afternoon in the sleepy little town of Blodgettville . In the balmy air the fragrance of early tulips mingled with the rich aroma of skunk cabbages in nearby marshes. The only sounds to be heard were the faint moan of a FIRE SIREN in a neighboring village, the distant barking of a DOG, and the

occasional whistle of the POLICEMAN at the main intersection. Within the town library, someone turned a page too loudly, and the LIBRARIAN said, "SSSH!". On the main road, at the outskirts of the town, a farmer was lazily driving his animals to market. Each time he hit a bump, the PIGS grunted, the CHICKENS squawked, and the DUCKS quacked. Yes, all was peaceful in the sleepy little town of Blodgettville.

Suddenly, TWO BOYS appeared on the quiet street. They were singing "ROW YOUR BOAT" and marching in time to the rhythm. They reached the c enter of town where the POLICEMAN blew his whistle to let them cross. Still singing, they marched up the steps of the library. The LIBRARIAN looked up quickly and said, "SSSH". EACH BOY took a book, then sat down at one of the tables. One of the boys looked around the almost empty library and said, "They'd do a lot more business in here if they had comic books!" Guess what the LIBRARIAN said? That's right, "SSSh".

Outside, the DOG'S barking could be heard more strongly. The POLICEMAN blew his whistle as a car approached the intersection, followed by the farmer's truck. As they started up again, the woman driving the car signaled a right turn. Oddly enough, her car made a left turn. The farmer slammed on his brakes, and there was a LOUD CRASH (everyone clap their hands together). Down went the tail gate of the truck and out tumbled the PIGS, the crates burst and out flew the CHICKENS and the DUCKS. The DOG, who by now was quite close, began an excited chase, barking wildly.

Frightened, the PIGS ran up the library steps, grunting, followed by squawking CHICKENS, quacking DUCKS, and yelping DOG. The LIBRARIAN was so startled she had time to let out only one "SSSH", before a CHICKEN flew into her face. The BOYS jumped up and delightedly burst into song. In rushed the POLICEMAN, frantically whistling. From across the street, old Miss Spindle saw the disturbance, and called the FIRE DEPARTMENT.

So then, at that moment in the quiet library of the quiet town of Blodgettville, these things were going on: The PIGS were grunting, the CHICKENS were clucking, the DUCKS were quacking, the BOYS were singing, the FIRE SIREN was screaming, the POLICEMAN was whistling, and the LIBRARIAN was hopelessly saying over and over again "SSSh, SSSh!". And for awhile at least, all these things were going on at the same time (EVERYBODY). But an hour later, everything was peaceful again in the sleepy little town of Blodgettville.

The PIGS, DUCKS and CHICKENS had somehow been caught and put back in the truck; the BOYS and DOG had gone home for supper, the FIRE TRUCK was back in the station house, and the POLICEMAN again stood at his post by the intersection.

And the LIBRARIAN?? Well, the LIBRARIAN looked around the library at the floating feathers, the muddy floor, the mixed up books, the overturned tables and the broken chairs.

And then, all of a sudden, the LIBRARIAN SCREAMED (EVERYBODY)

The Gift Of Trees

The Indians believe that the secret of happiness comes from giving to others.  Many, many moons ago when the Great Spirit first put man on the earth, man was frightened.  “Where will I find food and water?” he asked.  The trees laughed softly.  “We are your brothers,” they said.  “We will help you.”

The maple tree spoke up:  “I will give you sweet water to drink and make into sugar.”  The elm tree said, “Use my soft bark to make your baskets and tie them together with my tough muscles.”  The hickory tree said, “My cousins and I will fill your baskets with sweet nuts.”  And he called the chestnut, beech, and walnut to help him.  The great pine tree whispered softly, “When you get tired, little brother, I will make you a bed.  My cousins the balsam and cedar will help me.”

There was sunshine in man's heart as he set out to explore his new world.  But soon he came to a deep, wide river.   “How will I ever cross the river?” man asked.  The trees laughed and laughed.  “Take my white skin,” said the birch.  “Sew it together with the muscles of the elm tree and you can make a boat that will carry you across the widest river.”

When he sun crossed the sky to his lodge in the west, man felt cold.  Then the balsam fir tree whispered to him, “Little brother, there is much sunfire in my heart.  Rub my branches together and you will make a fire.”  So man made fire.  And that night he slept soundly on the branches of the great pine tree.  The north wind blew cold, but there was sunshine in the heart of man.

Now when Indian children ask how they can repay their friends, the trees, a wise man answers, “They do not ask for payment.  But you can give them care and attention.  You can give lose and care to every plant and flower that makes your life beautiful.”

The Litterbug – Audience Participation Skit

CHARACTERS:
PAPER (Crackle-Crackle)
CANS (Clatter-Clatter)
TRASH (Dump-Dump)
LITTERBUG (Toss and Throw)

NARRATOR:

God put bugs in this world for many reasons.
He made them to live in every kind of season.

But the pesky LITTERBUG with his PAPER and CAN,
was made through neglected TRASH by the foolish person.

To keep America beautiful, get rid of the LITTERBUG,
so beach goers can again lounge on a clean sandy rug.

Because of this pest, we must woller around,
In PAPER and CANS and TRASH all over the ground.

Just who are these LITTERBUGS who mess up our land?
Do you ever really see them toss that PAPER and CAN?

Quite often the LITTERBUG is a sneaky guy,
and at dumping his TRASH he's oh so sly.

So most of the time it just appears everywhere,
As if it had dropped right out of thin air.

Could it be we are so used to throwing things here and there,
That we dump that PAPER and CAN without being aware?

Without even thinking when we toss TRASH and waste,
We could be an unconscious LITTERBUG in all our haste.

So when you unwrap that gum or small piece of candy,
Don't throw the PAPER on the ground just ‘cause it's handy.

Next time stop and think when a pop CAN you toss,
Cause if you're a LITTERBUG, it's also your loss.

So if every single person would take note of his habit,
That pesky LITTERBUG we could certainly nab it.

Then that terrible bug we would surely stamp out,
With no more PAPER or CANS or TRASH about.

To keep America beautiful, we must all do our part,
By taking care of our TRASH properly from the very start.

Strangers in a Strange Land

Scout 1: Are you sure that there's nature around here?

Scout 2: Oh yah . . . there's nature all around. You've just got to watch for it.

Narrator: Unknown to these Cubs, they have just stepped into a world far different from the ordinary, a land of dreams and imagination. Welcome to the Twilight Zone. Doo-Bee-Doo-Bee Doo-Bee-Doo-Bee Doo-Bee-Doo-Bee (Be Musical ! ! !)

Scout 3: Did you feel something weird just now?

Scout 4: No . . . (Whine) but I wish I was Home.

Scout 2: Quiet, both of you. You'll scare away all the animals.

Scout 3: I still feel weird.

Scout 1: (pointing) What's that over there?

Scout 4: I don't know, but something sure smells awful. (3 Narrator: The cubs approach a turtle sitting on a pot. They move slowly (exaggerated) to get a better view. The step threw a patch of bright green grass.

Grass: Get off us you big oaf?!! (Cubs jump in unison)

Scout 3: I think we better move. (Scout 4 runs toward the turtle, stumbles and falls at the feet of the turtle. The other scouts follow more slowly.)

Turtle: You really aught to know better than to step on crab grass. There a mean sort, know what I mean? (Scout 1 shrugs his shoulders: 2 nods yes, 3 tips his head toward one shoulder, 4 shakes his head no) I knew that you could. (Scout 2 reaches for his book and starts to thumb through it.)

Scout 4: I don't like this place. Let's go home.

Narrator: As the cubs look around, they realize that the path they followed from the campground has disappeared.

Turtle: You're not from around here, are you? (All nod yes except scout 2 who still is thumbing threw his book) I thought so. Well, in that case, you would be wish to find the Sage Brush. He will be able to tell you how to get home.

Scout 2: Excuse me, Sir, but are you a stink pot turtle?

Turtle: Yes, how did you know? (Cubs paw the ground with their toes)

Scout 3: I bet it's in his book. (Scout 2 nods reaches back to his hip pocket and drops the book. As the Scouts turn their heads, the turtle moves off stage. Scout 1 bends down to pick up the book as gofer wearing blue jeans steps in front of him.)

Scout 1: Who are you?

Gofer: Who am I??? Eee-gads, can't you tell ????

Scout 3: We're strangers to this land.

Gofer: Everyone who's anyone knows who I am??? (Shoving his paw into a pocket, he cocks hip hip toward the boys) I'm a plain pocket gofer! ! ! ! !

Scout 1: Yes, you are: Could you tell us how to find the sage brush?

Gofer: Yes I can and no I won't. (Off stage music, humming/tape, can be heard.) Bye guys.

Narrator: Gofer disappears through some tiger lily which snap and growl viscously at him.

Scout 4: But I want to go home.

Scout 3: I'm sure we'll find a way.

Narrator: Using a compass, the boys travel through the forest, marking a trail as they go as they encounter some of its residence. They came across...(at this point any drawings of different creatures are shown to the audience with all four boys pointing at the picture as the narrator gives the name.)

Weary, they stop beside the first sign of civilization they come across: a road. In the distance, they see a runner. After a few moments, the runner approaches them.

Runner: (Jogging in place) I say, you Gents look as if you could use a bit of help. How may I be of service?

Scout 1: Yes, sir. Could you direct us to the sage brush.

Runner: Why sure. Follow this here road, and take a right at the first Y. Can't miss it. The road dead ends at the sage brush's headquarters.

Scout 3: Thank you, very much. (Runner runs down the road)

Scout 4: At last, someone normal.

Scout 2: Yep, a typical roadrunner. (' Narrator: After walking for a few moments the cubs come across a giant Y planted in the middle of the road.

Add your own ending.

LAND: NEVER-EVER LAND

The main thrust of this skit was to poke fun at the strange names man has given to the animals. The secondary foundation is a moral: “There's nature all around. You've just got to look for it.”

Skit on Nature

The Den Leader (labeled Mother Nature) says “Everything living, and properly cared for, grows.

There are things that a tree needs to grow. It needs warmth, water, care, and protection. Cub Scouts grow. What does a Cub Scout need to help him grow?

Cub #l : He needs food to grow. (perhaps this is the largest cub)

Cub #2: He needs a home for shelter.

Cub #3: He needs a man to be his friend.

Cub #4: He needs to go to school to grow mentally.

Cub #5: He needs to go to church to synagogue to help him grow spiritually.

Den Leader: Where's Johnny? Isn't he in this skit?

Cub #6: (hurrying on stage) Here I am. A Cub Scout needs to be needed.

Den Leader: It's not nice to fool Mother Nature!

PROVERB: (Den Leader) “As ye sow, so shall ye reap.”

TRANSLATION: (Cubs in unison) “What you seed is what you get!”

Two guys come rushing forward from opposite sides of stage. One throws his arms out and grabs the other fellow, ‘“Thank God, I ran into you I've been wandering around out here for three days.” ‘?

“I don't know what you're so excited about,” says the second guy. “I've been lost out here for over a week.”

The Story of the Moor Monster - Audience Participation

The entire audiences at your pack meeting will enjoy this group participation stunt.

When you hear the names HARRY or HARPER in this story, you CLAP once. CLAP TWICE when you hear the word MONSTER or the word MOOR Stamp both feet, one after the other, when you hear the words MOOR MONSTER Make a noise like a dog when you hear the name of Harry's dog, ROVER.

The scene is laid in England.

HARRY HARPER was an English Cub Scout (they call themselves Wolf Cubs) who lived with his Mother, Father, and his dog, RovE_R near an English MOOR HARRY was working on his Bear badge and needed a few more rocks to complete the last achievement for his badge.

One afternoon after HARRY HARPER got home from school, he said to his Mother, “Mother, I think ROVER and I will go out on the MOOR and look for a few more rock samples.” “All right,” said his Mother. “Be careful you don't fall and cut yourself on the rock of the MOOR, and be sure you come home in time for supper. ” “Yes, Mother,” said HARRY, “Come, ROVER let's go look for some rocks.”

So HARRY headed off onto the MOOR with ROVER running beside him.

HARRY went toward a huge rock formation in the middle of the MOOR He had always wanted to climb to the top, and today he had brought a rope with him. When he got near the top, as he had done many times before, he tied one end of the rope around a small rock, and tossed it around a big projecting rock, and it came back to where he was standing.

“You stay here, ROVER,” said HARRY and he climbed up the rock. Across the stream and a short distance back was a cave HARRY had never seen before, hidden behind a grove of trees and bushes.

HARRY HARPER and ROVER stood still, watching wide-eyed as a MONSTER of the MOOR came through the trees. The boy and the dog turned and ran.

First was ROVER followed closely by HARRY HARPER and at a distance came the MOOR MONSTER. ROVER was across the stream in three leaps, HARRY didn't bother walking across the rocks, he ran right through the water and headed for home. The MOOR MONSTER stopped at the stream!

“Bosh,” said the old Hermit, “I just wanted to- ask him if the fishing was any good in the stream.”

So, we ring down the curtain on the story of HARRY HARPER, his dog ROVER, and the not-so-terrible MOOR MONSTER.

Songs

Greasy, Grimy, Gopher Guts
(Tune: The Old Gray Mare)

Great green gobs of greasy grimy gopher guts,
mutilated monkey meat, dirty little pigeon's feet
All mixed up with a pile of poison possum pus and me without my spoon
And me without my spoon and me without spoon

Great green gobs of greasy grimy gopher guts and me without my spoon
We'll use a straw!

Chicken Lips & Lizard Hips

Chorus:
Chicken lips and lizard hips and alligator eyes
Monkey legs and buzzard eggs and salamander thighs
Rabbit ears and camel rears and tasty toe-nail pies
Stir them all together, it's Mama's Soup Surprise.

Oh, when I was a little kid I never liked to eat,
Mama'd put things on my plate, I'd dump them on her feet,
But then one day she made this soup, I ate it all in bed,
I asked her what she put in it, and this is want she said.

I went into the bathroom and stood beside the sink,
I said I'm feeling slightly ill, I think I'd like a drink,
Mama said "I've just the thing, I'll get it in a wink,
It's full of lots of protein, and vitamins I think."

Rockin'Rabbit Song
(Tune: Rockin' Robin)

I hop in the bunny patch
All day long
Hippin' and a hoppin'
And a singin' a song.

All the little bunnies
On Cottontail Street
Do the Rockin' Rabbit,
Really can't be beat.

Rockin' Rabbit. Rock, rock, rock.
Rockin' Rabbit. Rock, rock, rock.
ROCKIN' RABBIT!

All the little bunnies
On Cottontail Street
Do the Rockin' Rabbit'
Really move their feet.

Crafts

Paper Bag Kite

For the kite, use a brown paper grocery bag with rectangular bottom. Cut a piece of cardboard the same size as the bottom. Cut an oval shape in the center of the cardboard. Using the cardboard as a pattern, cut a matching hole in the bottom of the bag.

Punch a hole in each corner of the cardboard piece. Attach a long piece of string to each corner, Glue cardboard to bottom of bag, matching the oval openings. Take all free ends of the string and tie them together, so that all lengths are even. Tie them to the actual kite string, which is already wound around a piece of wood or other kite string holder. Decorate as desired. Have fun kite flying! !

Survival Kit

Material:
35mm film can

Inside:
1 chalk stub
4 paper clips
1 pencil stub
6 straight pins
2 safety pins
2 thumb tacks
1 black crayon
1 piece of string
2 kitchen matches
4 aspirin
1 band-aid

Outside:
1 piece of masking tape
rubber bands
piece of sandpaper (glue to bottom)

Sawdust Skeeter Scat

A household funnel forms an effective mold for this skeeter scat. The funnel is filled with sawdust that has been previously mixed with sobo or similar glue. Thin lubricating oil is then added to this mixture. Colors may be obtained by adding a small amount of vegetable dye. The inside of the funnel should be coated with Vaseline to prevent the mixture from sticking. The mixture is carefully pushed into the funnel and, when dry, is removed from the mold. The large end is placed flat on the table, and the small tapered end is ignited. The slow burning produces a smoke and mild odor which drives away mosquitoes.

Sit-Upon

Summertime cushion for picnics or backyard fun! This is a GREAT project.

Materials:

12 double pages of newspaper

Preparations: Start at one side of double page, make a 2 %” fold and crease well. Continue folding paper over and over until you have one strip. Fold all 12 pages the same way.

Weaving: Lay out 6 strips side by side. Beginning approximately 4” from one side, weave remaining 6 strips of paper in and out. Leave a 4” tail of each of the 12 strips on all sides.

Finishing Edges: Start with all ends facing upward (every other one), make a 1 ” fold then fold over and tuck inside of strip beneath it, as shown. Turn Sit-Upon over and do the same with the remaining ends. All comers will be double-tucked (on top and bottom).

Ant Home

Materials: one-gallon jar or large peanut butter jar, soil and an ant hill, black paper.

1. Fill a one-gallon far with soil. Find an ant hill and put as many of the ants and as much of the surrounding debris in the jar as you can collect.

2. Place some cotton over the dirt and pour a little water in the ant jar every several days.

3. Put lid with small holes in it back on the jar and cover the entire jar with black paper. The ants will make tunnels and can be observed by the Cubs.

Soda Bottle Bird Feeder

Materials:

· 1 piece 1” X %” X 6” pine strip

· 1 piece 1” X 2” X 6” pine perch support

Hardware and miscellaneous:

· 1 plastic soda bottle - 2 liter size

· screw eyes, small size

· 3 brass screws #6, %” long

· Wood glue or Silicone clue

· 1 piece l/4” wood dowel 4' long

· Tools Requires:

· Drill

· Heavy scissors

· Screwdriver

· Coping saw or Saber saw

Directions:

1. Soak the 2 liter soda bottle in hot water. Remove the cover and the plastic bottom. Note the plastic bottom should come off easily it you fill the bottle with hot tap water to soften the hot melt glue that is used to hold the bottom in place.

2. Cut the bottle to shape as shown, using a heavy scissors. Cut the bottle at the shoulder slightly more than halfway leaving an overhanging lip or cowl. This overhang will keep out the rain and protect the birds while feeding.

3. Cut the I x 2 facing in an arc that fits the shape of the bottle. You can use the drawing as shown, but it is best to double check and use the actual size of the opening you have made.

4. Drill a l/4” hole. Into the 1 x 2 facing for the perch. Cut the l/4” dowel to a length of 4” and glue and insert into the hole.

5. Measure and cut the pine strip to size and position and screw into place using the small screw eyes. Note: It may be necessary to puncture the plastic to get the screws started.

6. Position the 1 x 2 facing perch out and screw in place using three l/2” #6 brass screws.

7. Hang the feeder from a tree branch using nylon string. Fill with bird seed and sit back and watch the feast begin.

Beetle Trap

Sink an empty tuna can or small can into the ground with the top level with the surface.

Pour in a sweet mixture, such as molasses and water or bits of meat or fish in it. Beetles and crickets will be attracted and fall in.

Sun Catcher

Materials Needed: Paper Plate, colored markers, white tissue paper, paper punch pencil, sting, scissors, glue

Draw shapes on the underside of the plate and cut out.

Cut a piece of tissue paper in a circle to cover the design and glue to the inside of the plate, being sure to glue along the edges of the plate around the cut out designs. Color the tissue paper with different colored markers. Make a hole near the top of the plate and hang with the string.

Tie Slides

Cord Tie Slide: Tie a 1 54 fi piece of cord or jute yarn around a 4” dowel using square knots, then back down around dowel and tie another knot. Slip off the dowel.

Marshmallow on a Stick

Materials: Floral wire, white beads, glue

Directions: Shape heavy floral wire to look like a roasting fork. .Glue white beads to end. (using small forked twig, sharpen forks to fit beads & glue in place.) Epoxy finished stick to piece of plastic plumbers pipe big enough for neckerchief to pass through.

InsaneScouter Moment - Wilderness Pledge

Scouts, next week we're going to practice some of the skills of what is called minimum impact camping, when we're outdoors for our Park Service project. As you've learned this month, the idea of minimum impact camping is to leave no trace that we were ever there when we leave a campsite or hike a trail.

As part of our opening ceremony tonight we heard a reading of the Outdoor Code. You should be familiar with that because we recite it every once in a while and it's in your Scout handbook. Now we're going to read and think about a code that goes a step farther. It's called the Wilderness Pledge.

The Wilderness Pledge says: "Through good camping and hiking practices, I pledge myself to preserve the beauty and splendor of America's wilderness, primitive, and backcountry areas. I commit myself to: 1) Set a personal example in following the Outdoor Code; 2) Train those I lead in the skills and attitudes needed to protect and preserve wilderness for future generations; and 3) Assure that parties of which I am a part observe the hiking and camping standards that will 'leave no trace' of our passing.

That pledge is particularly important when you go into really wild areas of our beautiful country. You are promising that you will everything in your power to preserve its beauty for all who follow you.

Now I would like to join me as we borrow the first phrase of the Scout Oath to commit ourselves to the Wilderness Pledge, Please repeat after me: "On my honor I will do my best," (Scouts' repeat)

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