North Atlanta Cub Scout Roundtable

Rental Equipment

2007-09-24T09:56:00.001-04:00

Unless they are experienced campers, I encourage new Cub Scouts and their parents to rent camping equipment before they consider buying equipment. There have been some changes in the camping rental market in Atlanta. I believe that the largest rental company is REI, with two locations in Atlanta. They have stoves, packs, sleeping bags and pads and tents for rent at very reasonable prices, particularly for members of the co-op. I rented some equipment from them this weekend and they were great to deal with. They mentioned to me that it is wise to book as far ahead of time as possible as they frequently get groups who rent, for example, all of their sleeping bags for a weekend church camp or Scout event.

Phone Tree Software

2007-09-20T09:55:00.000-04:00

Ever had problems making the traditional "phone tree" work with your den or Pack? Try using phone tree software like that offered by Calling Post. With this service, you set up a list of telephone numbers that you want to call (say, all of the members of your den or Pack), then record a message to be sent to each of these telephone numbers. There is a small charge for each telephone call, but dozens of calls can be made automatically. It is a real time saver for busy den and pack leaders.

Cave Adventures

2007-09-18T10:10:00.000-04:00

Cub Scouts love to explore caves. Some great cave trips in the Southeast are:

Mammoth Cave National Park
The Lost Sea
Forbidden Caverns
DeSoto Cavern Park

There are many caves throughout the Southeast. Some of the caves allow overnight sleepovers in the cave which is a great winter camping activity for Cubs.

Camping at Simpsonwood

2007-09-17T13:51:00.000-04:00

Simpsonwood Conference Center is a Methodist conference center near Dunwoody on the banks of the Chattahoochee River. Camping, a lodge, meals, three miles of trails, swimming pool, playground, basketball court, and an athletic field are among the attractions for Cub Scouts. For more information, contact them:

Simpsonwood Conference Center
4511 Jones Bridge Circle, NW
Norcross, GA 30092
770-441-1111
sales@simpsonwood.org

Trees Atlanta Tree Sale

2007-09-13T17:39:00.000-04:00

Tree planting is a great conservation project for Cub Scouts. Where do you get the trees to plant? Check out the Trees Atlanta Tree Sale offering a diverse selection of native and non-invasive exotic trees. This is the annual fundraiser for Trees Atlanta. Saturday, October 13th, 8:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. in Piedmont Park.

Autumn Stars

2007-09-13T17:30:00.000-04:00

Another outstanding program at the Chattahoochee Nature Center explores what constellations and stars to look for this fall.
September 23, 1-2 p.m.
Chattahoochee Nature Center
9135 Willeo Road
Roswell, GA
770-992-2055, Ext. 237

Bird Walks in Piedmont Park

2007-09-13T17:22:00.000-04:00

Through December 8, the Atlanta Audubon Society offers free bird walks in Piedmont Park at 8 a.m. the second Saturday of each month. Teach your Cubs the basics of bird watching.
Piedmont Park Conservancy Community Center
1071 Piedmont Ave., N.E.
Atlanta, GA
404-875-7275
http://www.piedmontpark.org/

Medieval Times

2007-09-13T17:13:00.000-04:00

Medieval Times offers dinner and a joust. Watch knights battle on some of the 22 Andalusian stallions in residence. Through September 30, kids 12 and under eat free when accompanied by a paying adult. Located at Discover Mills in Lawrenceville.

Southern Museum of Civil War and Locomotive History

2007-09-13T17:06:00.000-04:00

Southern Museum of Civil War and Locomotive History offers many programs for children, including workshops for making old time toys, photographic exhibits, group tours and other programing. Scout groups are welcomed.
Southern Museum of Civil War and Locomotive History
2829 Cherokee Street
Kennesaw, GA 30144
770-427-2117

Southeastern Railway Museum

2007-09-13T16:47:00.000-04:00

The Southeastern Railway Museum in Duluth offers great fun for Cub Scouts. Some 90 pieces of retired railroad equipment, including rides on operational equipment. Thursday through Saturday from April through December, and Saturday only January through March.

Gwinnett County Police COPS Festival

2007-09-13T16:41:00.000-04:00

Special units of the Gwinnett County Police Department, including SWAT, Bomb Squad, K-9 and others. Oct. 2 from 5-8 p.m. Free. Gwinnett Convention Center, 6400 Sugarloaf Parkway, Duluth. 770-338-4170. www.gwinnettcenter.com.

North Georgia State Fair

2007-09-13T16:24:00.000-04:00

September 20-30. Farm animals, food, free attractions, shows, carnival midway. What's not to like? Bulk ticket prices are available. Your Cubs will love it.

Jim R. Miller Park
2245 Callaway Road
Marietta, GA
770-423-1330
http://www.northgeorgiastatefair.com/

No Diacetyl Flavoring in Scout Popcorn

2007-09-12T15:28:00.000-04:00

Popcorn Show and Sell Pickup

2007-09-07T10:21:00.000-04:00

Show and Sell pickups will be on Sept 15th at this location:

Chick-fil-A
1000 Naturally Fresh Blvd
Atlanta GA 30349

For additional information, contact John Arnold <johnarnold@bellsouth.net>.

Cub Scout Day at Fernbank

2007-08-29T09:25:00.000-04:00

Fernbank has created a special day devoted to Cub Scouts, Saturday, November 3, from 10:00 a.m. until 2 p.m., offering opportunities to tour the Museum, live animal encounters and discussions of science careers. Cost is included in Museum admission, and Cub Scouts in uniform receive 1/2 off a child's Museum admission. Free for members. The Fernbank Museum of Natural History, 767 Clifton Road, N.E., Atlanta, GA 30307. Telephone 404-929-6300.

Cub Scout Leader Basic Training

2007-08-24T11:18:00.000-04:00

Please review the attached flyer for information on Cub Scout Basic Leader Training.

Popcorn Sales Tips

2007-08-20T16:01:00.000-04:00

Here is a very neat flyer from Katie Watt that shows Scouts how to fill up their entire order form in one week.

Uniform Checklist

2007-08-20T11:43:00.000-04:00

As your new Cub Scouts start, be sure to give them this checklist for uniforms.

Scouters Academy - Save the Date!

2007-08-19T11:26:00.000-04:00

Scouters Academy will be held this year on November 3, 2007 at a location to be announced later. Over 50 classes will be taught this year, including topics for new leaders and parents, and tips for more experienced leaders and parents. Online registration will be used this year. Questions? Contact Ted Orr at GreyH@GeorgiaBSA.com.

B.A.L.O.O. Training

2007-08-19T11:23:00.001-04:00

Basic Adult Leader Outdoor Orientation will be given this year on Saturday, November 17, 2007 at Bert Adams Scout Reservation. Registration begins at 8:00 a.m. and classes begin at 8:30 a.m. Note: There is a $10 fee and pre-registration no later than November 2 is required. Dress for the weather and bring pen, paper and a lawn chair.

Cub-O-Rama at Bert Adams

2007-08-19T11:18:00.000-04:00

Cub-O-Rama is coming! Participate in a day-long series of activities for everyone in the Pack from Tigers to Webelos. Earn belt loops for BB shooting and archery, crafts and projects, and more. October 20, 2007, from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., at Cubworld on Bert Adams Scout Reservation. More information is available at the Program Center (770-989-8820) or on the web at http://www.atlantabsa.org/.

2007 - 2008 Monthly Themes

2007-08-19T11:12:00.000-04:00

September - Cub Scout Express
October - Down on the Farm
November - Indian Nations
December - Celebrations Around the World
January - Cub Scout Car Show
February - Chinese New Year
March - Litter to Glitter
April - Abracadabra!
May - Leaf It to Cubs
June - Go for the Gold
July - H2Ohhh!
August - S'more Summer Fun

Great Lake Allatoona Cleanup Sept. 15

2007-08-13T17:30:00.000-04:00

The annual Great Lake Allatoona Cleanup will be held this year on Saturday, September 15 from 9:00 a.m. until noon. Each participant gets a patch and a picnic follows from noon until 2:00 p.m. with free food, entertainment, giveaways and prizes. Campsites are available for those wishing to camp on Friday or Saturday night. More information is available at the Great Allatoona Cleanup website.

Walking With Dinosaurs

2007-08-13T17:22:00.000-04:00

Philips Arena is offering group prices for Scouts for the "Walking With Dinosaurs" show on Friday, September 7 at 7:30 p.m. For more information, call 404-878-3268.

Ashley Baker Appointed District Executive for North Atlanta District

2007-08-06T10:54:00.001-04:00

Here is an e-mail from our new District Executive, Ashley Baker:

My name is Ashley Baker and I am writing to introduce myself to you as your new North Atlanta District Executive. I am from the Hightower Trail District and although I loved it very much, I am more excited about serving you as your new DE. I am an Auburn graduate (War Eagle!) and am originally from Kentucky. I have been in Atlanta for almost a year and live right in the District off 10th.

I got your contact information from Nate Newman and wanted to send an e-mail to say hello and offer my assistance with School Night for Scouting. I know school is just around the corner so please let me know what I can do to help out. I have called those of you who's numbers I have on my spread sheet and will be calling the rest to say hello in person. I look forward to meeting you all and hope to see you at our Roundtable this Thursday night.

Please let me know if you have set the dates for Buzz ups and School Nights and also if you need any help or would like me to join you when talking with the Principals and Headmasters.

Thanks for all your help and I look forward to meeting you all soon.

Sincerely,

Ashley

--
Ashley H. Baker
District Executive
Boy Scouts of America
North Atlanta District
abaker@atlantabsa.org
404.580.1067

Fire Station Tour

2007-07-07T17:40:00.001-04:00

It is a great idea to encourage your new Tiger Cub den to plan a trip to a fire station as an early "Go See It" den activity. This is easy to coordinate with local fire stations, and the new Tiger Cubs love to talk to the firemen, climb on the fire equipment and take a tour of the fire station. This also satisfies Tiger Cub activity 2G "Where I Live" and gets the new den focused on advancement right from the start. Encourage your Tiger Cub den to make this trip an early activity!

2007 Popcorn Kickoff

2007-07-06T09:26:00.000-04:00

The North Atlanta District (part of Service Area 1) has its Popcorn Kickoff meeting on August 15, 2007 at 6:30 p.m. at the Georgia Power building, 241 Ralph McGill Boulevard, NE, Atlanta, Georgia 30308. Please RSVP by July 27 to District Kernel John Arnold at 404-358-1966 or at johnarnold@bellsouth.net. This is the meeting that you must attend in order to obtain your extra 5% commission!

Religious Emblems Programs

2007-06-18T10:51:00.000-04:00

The Cub Scouts in your Pack can participate in a religious emblems program specific to their faith. These programs are offered for virtually every religious denomination, including the Protestant, Roman Catholic, Jewish, Hindu, and Buddhist faiths. These religious groups, not the Boy Scouts of America, organize and administer the religious emblem programs for their faith.

2007 Popcorn Packet Stuffings and Kick-Off Information

2007-06-14T14:42:00.001-04:00

An e-mail from Katie Watt:

The 2007 Popcorn Sale is quickly approaching! We are currently recruiting volunteers for the packet stuffing nights. Listed below are the nights have scheduled to stuff packets, please let me know if you or anyone else in your unit would like to volunteer. The more volunteers we have, the better and hopefully we can get it done in two nights, instead of two. Here are the dates and times:

Wednesday, June 27th at 6:00 p.m. at the Volunteer Service Center
Tuesday, July 10th at 6:00 p.m. at the Volunteer Service Center
Thursday, July 19th at 6:00 p.m. at the Volunteer Service Center (this day may not be needed if we can recruit enough volunteers for the first two!)

Mark your calendars for the Service Area Popcorn Kick-Offs!
We are still working on finalizing some of the information on this year’s kick-offs. Flyers will be mailed out at the end of this month, and there will be more information sent out through e-mail once everything is confirmed. But go ahead and mark you calendars for these dates! Remember, in order to receive your 5% extra commission, your unit must be in attendance at a Kick-Off (and pay on time).

Service Area I– August 15th at 6:30 p.m.
Location: Georgia Power (241 Ralph McGill Boulevard NE; Atlanta, GA 30305)

Service Area II- August 1st at 6:30 p.m.
Location: Atlanta Area Council Volunteer Service Center (1800 Circle 75 Parkway S.E.; Atlanta, GA 30339)

Three Rivers District- To Be Determined

Service Area III- August 8th at 6:30 p.m.
Location: UPS (55 Glenlake Pkwy NE; Atlanta, GA 30328)

Service Area IV- August 11th at 10:00 a.m.
Location: To Be Determined

The Council website will be updated with all popcorn information in the next couple of weeks. So check that for a sneak peak of all the information on this year’s sale.

If you have any questions, please contact me as I am the new popcorn contact for the council (Leslie received a promotion). I look forward to working with you this year!

Best regards,

Katie Watt
Special Events Coordinator
Atlanta Area Council, Boy Scouts of America
Ph: 770-989-8820 ext. 2007
www.atlantabsa.org

Cub Scout Leader How To Book

2007-06-14T14:29:00.001-04:00

A great resource for Cub Scout leaders is the Cub Scout Leader How To Book. This book contains games, activities, hints and tips for the Cub Scout leader to make his Pack and Den activities more exciting.

Whittling Chip

2007-06-14T11:06:00.001-04:00

The Whittling Chip can be earned by Bear Scouts and is very useful as a teaching tool for knife safety. Consider having your Cubs earn this award at the same time as they work on the soap carving activity covered in the Bear book. Make sure your Cubs know that they are not allowed to carry a knife to a Cub Scout function without earning the Whittling Chip. Also, if your Pack meets at a school, please remember that some schools prohibit students from bringing knives to school.

Tour of WSB Studio

2007-06-14T10:48:00.000-04:00

For Tiger Cub "How I Tell It" or the Webelos Communicator activity badge you can schedule a free tour of the WSB studio.

Tour the Governor's Mansion

2007-06-12T09:38:00.000-04:00

Consider taking your Cubs on a tour of the Georgia Governor's Mansion. Public tours are conducted throughout the year on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays between 10:00 a.m. and 11:30 a.m. Reservations are needed for groups of 10 or more. Address: 391 W Paces Ferry Rd NW Atlanta, GA 30305-1099 Phone: (404) 261-1776

Rainbow Ranch Trout Fishing

2007-06-08T16:24:00.001-04:00

For an easy fishing trip, take your Cubs to Rainbow Ranch. Fishing poles and bait are supplied. No fishing license is needed. BUT, your boys absolutely will catch fish (farmed trout) and you must keep what you catch. The fish will be processed for you and you will have to pay for the fish at $4.49 a pound. There is no "catch and release." It can get expensive if your boys catch quite a few fish, which I guarantee will happen. Set limits before you go or be prepared to pay. This is a nice trip for beginning fishermen.

Fernbank Science Center

2007-06-08T11:28:00.001-04:00

Consider a trip to the Fernbank Science Center, a division of the DeKalb County School System. Check the schedule for their regular star viewing program at their indoor planetarium. The Fernbank Forest behind the science center has a nice, 1.5 mile hike which is great for your younger Cubs. The science center is located near Emory University.

Scouting Magazine

2007-06-08T09:20:00.000-04:00

A great asset for Cub Scout leaders is Scouting Magazine. A copy of this magazine is automatically sent to all of your registered adult leaders. The copy your Scouters receive is keyed to their leadership position in the BSA. Accordingly, Cub leaders receive a magazine that has content oriented toward younger Scouts. Back issues are on-line and searchable. If you have a problem or a question, it is likely that someone has written an article about that in Scouting Magazine. Check it out!

Pinewood Derby Rules

2007-06-07T16:28:00.001-04:00

Here is the last set of Pinewood Derby rules I have received from the North Atlanta District. There may be a 2007 version. I will post the 2007 rules if anyone has a copy.

NORTH ATLANTA DISTRICT
2006 PINEWOOD DERBY RULES

1. CAR BODY SPECIFICATIONS:
a. Material: Each participating Scout should obtain a BSA “Official Grand Prix Pinewood Derby Kit” (the “official BSA” kit). The main body of the car is to be built from wood. Other materials may be incorporated into the car so long as such materials are not otherwise prohibited under these rules. The use of Scout symbols (Cubs, Bears, etc.) is encouraged.
b. Maximum Length. The overall length of the car (including wheels) may not exceed 7”. No part of the car may extend beyond any part of the starting pin mechanism.
c. Extended Wheelbase Allowed. It is not required that the pre-cut axle slots of the official BSA kit be used for axle placement. Car axles may be placed wherever desired (e.g., extended wheelbase beyond the pre-cut axle slots is allowed), so long as the car (including wheels) does not exceed the maximum 7” length.
d. Maximum Height. To adequately clear the timing devices, the height of the cars may not exceed 3”.
e. Track Clearance: The clearance between the bottom of the car and track must be a minimum of ⅜”. Please note that this is necessary to allow the car to pass the sloped part of the track without scraping the car’s bottom on the center guide strip. The center guide strip is approximately ¼” tall (but may vary slightly).
f. Maximum Weight: The car’s total ready-to-race weight may not exceed 5 ounces as determined by the judges’ use of their designated weighing device (e.g., digital scales). Portions of the car body may be hollowed out and built up to the maximum weight by addition of solid material such as wood or metal.
g. Attachments. All attachments to the car, including decorations, decals, spoilers, fenders, etc., must be securely attached (i.e., nothing can be taped on, such as weights). No attachments may be added that would act to move or power the car.
h. Maximum Width. So the car will properly fit on the track, Scouts should be careful in adding attachments that make the body of the car (not including wheels) exceed the width of the block of wood in the official BSA kit (which is 2¾”). If the car does not fit properly on the track (e.g., resulting in rubbing the track or interfering with other cars racing), it may be disqualified.

2. AXLE SPECIFICATIONS: Only official BSA axles may be used on the cars and any substitution of any non-BSA nails, screws, wires for axles is prohibited.
a. Certain Axle Modifications Allowed. The official BSA axles may be modified by removing spurs, polishing, etc.
b. Other Modifications Prohibited. Additions of any wheel bearings, washers, or bushings are prohibited. The car may not ride on any type of springs.
c. Allowance for Inspection. Axles must be able to be visually examined by the Race Officials, and if glued in place, the entire point of the axle end must be exposed to allow for examination by Race Officials.

3. WHEEL SPECIFICATIONS: Only official BSA wheels may be used on the cars.
a. Certain Modifications Allowed. The official BSA wheels may be lightly sanded or slightly shaved to remove surface imperfections such as mold seams. After any such modifications, all wheels must have a flat tread and the tread “teeth” must be visible from the side of the wheel. The axle holes in the wheel may also be smoothed.
b. Other Modifications Prohibited. The width of the official BSA wheels are not to be reduced. No hubcaps are allowed. No material (other than lubrication) may be added to the wheels. Wheels must be free-spinning with no starting devices. The wheels cannot have a singular bead or multiple raised surfaces that the wheel rides on.
c. Lubrication: The wheels and axles may be lubricated with a dry lubricant. No liquid lubricants are permitted. All lubricants may only be applied outside the buildings prior to inspection, weigh-in and registration.

4. RACE OFFICIALS, INSPECTION & QUALIFICATION. To provide for a level playing field, Pack 232 designated Race Officials have the right to request modifications to a car or to disqualify a car that does not meet the rules or specifications above. If a question arises that is not adequately covered in these rules, the Race Officials will exercise their judgment to equitably determine the appropriate action. Race Officials will be the sole arbiters in all situations of rule interpretation, issues of inspection, and enforcement, and their decisions are final. If you have any questions on these rules, you should seek clarification as soon as possible before the race from Race Officials Dan King (drdking@bellsouth.net) or Jay Daly (jaypd@comcast.net).

Switchback Pants for Cub Scouts

2007-06-07T15:58:00.000-04:00

The new Switchback pants are a big hit with Boy Scouts, and starting August 1 they will be available in Cub Scout blue. Switchbacks are long pants that zip off to shorts. They have a coin pocket with Cub Scout logo, cargo pockets on the legs, a secret zipper pocket and other neat features. They are accepted by the BSA as official uniform pants and without a doubt will be extremely popular with your boys.

Custom Patches

2007-06-07T15:21:00.000-04:00

Patches for your pack events are available in several forms. Of course there are what the Scouts call standard emblems which you can buy at the Scout Shop for overnight camping, your Pinewood Derby, etc. But have you considered the possiblity of creating your own custom patches with your unit number and event? You can order "fill in" patches directly from the Scout Shop. Mary Setzer at the Scout Shop can assist you with custom patches for your events.

What does it take for a den to gel?

2007-06-06T16:08:00.000-04:00

This is a topic that someone could write a book about. I have had dens that took off like rockets and never faltered and dens that never could get started no matter what I did to help. There is a chemistry that happens sometimes that is a combination of parent involvement, support from the Pack, and the enthusiasm of the boys, all of which is often a function of the health of the Pack as a whole. Training of the adult leaders plays a big part in all this, but more than anything I think it is a function of someone caring enough about the program to see that the boys are actually doing a Scouting program. So often what happens is that boys assemble, sometimes in uniform, sometimes not, and then play for an hour or two and then go home. I'm all for playing, but that is not really a den meeting as far as I am concerned. I like to see the den leaders organize a series of meetings at the start of the year in which advancement goals are mapped out and meetings planned to accomplish the advancement goals. Often, the most successful den leaders divide up these tasks and assign a topic to each of the parents. That parent then plans the program to accomplish that advancement activity. This brings the parents as well as the boys into the Scouting program, and this is what I think ultimately make the den "gel." What do you think?

Guide to Safe Scouting

2007-06-05T08:33:00.001-04:00

Many Cub Scout leaders are not aware of the excellent Boy Scout publication, Guide to Safe Scouting which is available free on line as well as in print form. Scouting offers boys many opportunity to stretch their limits and expand their outdoor experiences, but it is important to remember, particularly for Cub Scouts, that there should be reasonable, age-appropriate limits placed on a Scout's activities. All of us read about tragedies from drowning, children lost in the woods, and injuries and accidents on camping trips. As a Cub leader you certainly want to avoid these kinds of things happening to your boys, and the Guide to Safe Scouting can help. It contains sections on youth protection, acquatics, camping, drugs and alcohol, emergency perparedness, first aid, fuels, guns, sports and several other topics. Please take the time to read this important publication and make sure that your Pack's activities comply with the standards established by the Boy Scouts.

Class B Uniforms

2007-06-04T08:51:00.001-04:00

"Class A" uniforms are the official boy scout uniform with official shirt, neckerchief, official pants and belt. For less formal occasions or situations where your boys might get too dirty for official uniforms, some packs have "Class B" uniforms. Class B uniforms are are tee shirts showing your scouting affiliation that may be worn over jeans or shorts. The Class B uniform is great when you are going on a trip and want to be able to locate your Cubs quickly by color of their tee shirt or to allow other adults to identify your boys and their pack affiliation, and get them back to you if they get lost. Class B tee shirts make a great souvenir for a trip, are a great advertisement for your Pack, and the boys love them. My boys sometimes wear them all summer long. Some places to order Class B uniforms on-line are:

http://www.classb.com/
http://www.12pointsgraphics.com/

An Athens, Georgia company, Atlas, Inc., is another great source for custom Scouting merchandise. Ask for Nate Kinion.

2007 Popcorn Sales Information

2007-06-04T07:53:00.000-04:00

I am passing on an e-mail that I received from John Arnold, the Popcorn Kernel for the North Atlanta District. His message follows:

Here are some important dates you need to be aware of. Please come help stuff some packets on June 27th and you'll be able to see all the new products and prizes. Please make sure to attend the August 15th Kick Off. This is where you will receive training, your own packets, and qualify to receive an extra 5% of commissions! Let me know if you have any questions.

John Arnold
District Kernel
Home - (404) 843 1932
Work - (770) 998 8936 ext 88274

Packet Stuffing Night- Wednesday, June 27- 6:00 p.m. at the Volunteer Service Center
Packet Stuffing Night- Tuesday, July 10- 6:00 p.m. at the Volunteer Service Center
Packet Stuffing Night- Thursday, July 19- 6:00 p.m. at the Volunteer Service Center (if needed)
Service Area I Kick-Off- August, 15 6:30 p.m. Georgia Power Bldg
Show n Sell Orders due online - Thursday, August 30
Salesmanship Merit Badge, Saturday, Sept 8, 10am - 3pm; Volunteer Service Center
Show n Sell Distribution - Saturday, Sept 15
Final Orders due online - Friday, Oct 26
Final Distribution - Saturday, Nov 10
Payments due Council - Monday, Dec 3

2007 Product List:

11 oz Caramel Corn w/ Peanuts ($10)
15-pack Unbelievable Butter Microwave ($15)
15-pack Butter Lite Microwave ($15)
15-pack Kettle Corn Microwave ($20)
26 oz Caramel Corn w/ Almonds & Pecans ($18)
24 oz Chocolatey Caramel Corn ($18)
18 oz Caramel Corn Lite - NEW ($18)
20 oz Trail Mix - NEW ($20)
Cheese Lover's Tin ($30)
3-way Tin Chocolate, Caremel, Cheese - ($50)
Support our Troops Donation - NEW ($25)

Scouting is a Game with a Purpose

2007-06-03T17:03:00.000-04:00

Lord Baden Powell said that "Scouting is a game with a purpose." Once I was teaching a Webelos advancement unit when one of the boys said, "This is just like school." Wow! That didn't sound good. I determined right then and there that from now on I was going to make my "teaching" fun! How could I make everything that I taught into a fun experience or a game? As I started thinking about it, it was easy to make a lesson into a game. Boys love competition and turning memory words into a crossword, a scramble, or the like is really pretty easy. Who can find the answer first? Adding a physical element to the game also makes them much more fun for the boys. Throw a dart at a question, then answer it. Learning knots? See who can tie one the fastest. Memorizing the Cub Scout oath? See who knows the next line. Make it into a game and your boys will love the experience.

It's a Great Day for Scouting!

2007-06-03T15:54:00.000-04:00

Sometimes when you go camping with your Cubs you will find that the weather does not cooperate. You and your boys could be cold, wet, hot or or just plain worn out. You may not realize it, but this is your opportunity to reflect optimism about the experience! You can go through life whining and complaining, or you can approach life as a series of challenges which offer you the opportunity to "Do Your Best." This is why whenever one of my Cubs complains about the weather I always respond, "It's a great day for Scouting." As I think back on my own Scouting experiences, some of my most memorable campouts were held when it was raining, cold or burning hot. When you are tired and cold, you may not think this is a great experience, but you will recall how you overcame these problems and made something fun out of the experience. Believe me, when it comes time to tell tales around the campfire, your boys will recall those cold and wet days and they will become even colder and wetter ("Ah, this is nothing compared to that campout we had last year when it rained for two solid days.") Learning how to deal with adversity is an important life lesson of Scouting. Every day, no matter how cold or wet, is a "great day for Scouting."

Cubmaster Minute

2007-06-03T15:43:00.001-04:00

I always like to take a moment at the end of a pack or den meeting for a "Cubmaster Minute." This is a short talk addressed directly to the boys about a the theme of the meeting. I ask the boys to "take a knee" and then try to make a short, pithy statement about a topic that I think is important. This is one of those "teaching moments" which you will occasionally have as a Cubmaster. The boys are eager to go home, and are probably tired and hungry, so remember that you only have a second or two to grab their attention. Try to talk about something that you relate to and that is important to you. This is your chance to talk about personal responsibility, patriotism, faith, and the other values that the boys may not hear much about except at a Scout meeting. You may want to plan these out ahead of time, and many suggestions are published on the Web. The key point is to use this opportunity to communicate with your Cubs about things that you feel are important. If the talk comes from your heart, it will sink in. Try it!

Popcorn Sales

2007-06-02T15:17:00.001-04:00

Please consider participating in the Atlanta Area Council popcorn sale this year. Many units use popcorn sales as their primary fund raising mechanism. Selling popcorn can be quite profitable for the unit, and provides important financial support for the Council. Generally speaking, you need to select a Popcorn Kernel for your unit who will attend a summer meeting where information about Popcorn sales will be distributed. Your unit will obtain a bonus (a higher percentage of sales returned to your unit) if you have someone attend this meeting. Popcorn is sold via "Show and Sell" (obtaining actual product and selling it) and by "Take Orders" (taking an order for popcorn, receiving payment, then delivering the product later). My Packs have found obtaining some popcorn for Show and Sell really enhances the Take Order process, so I think you should try to do both. Some stores like Target and Wal-Mart allow your unit to set up tables outside their stores. Please line this up with the manager of the store before you set up! My Pack was able to raise enough money to purchase a Pinewood Derby track this year. In previous years we have taken nice trips paid for by Popcorn sales. The boys also win prizes for various levels of sales. Scouting is a "pay your own way" organization. Your Cubs will be very proud that their efforts in selling popcorn resulted in a tangible reward for their Pack. Look into it! I think you will find that Popcorn sales will be worth your time and effort.

Full Year Planning

2007-06-02T14:50:00.000-04:00

I want to stress the advantages of planning your Pack events for a full year. If you check the Atlanta Area Council master calendar you will find a number of events which you can work into your Pack year. Obtain calendars from the schools your Cubs attend, and look out for holidays, Mothers Day, and other obvious conflicts. Then plan your pack meetings, your camp outs, your "go see it" events, a Blue and Gold Banquet in February, plus a Pinewood Derby or other competitive event. Don't forget to plan for some kind of service days for your sponsoring organization (we pick up trash at our school's fall festival). Publishing a full year calendar at the start of the new school year enables your parents to plan for Cub Scout events and gives you and your Pack Committee the opportunity to do the preparation necessary to make those events meaningful for your Scouts. Try it! It works.

Cub Family Camping This Summer

2007-06-02T14:06:00.000-04:00

2007 Cub Family Camping is available at Bert Adams on June 23-24 and at Camp Woodruff on July 14-15.

Centennial Quality Unit Award for 2007 - 2010

2007-06-01T15:22:00.000-04:00

Many of you are no doubt familiar with the Quality Unit Award which has traditionally been awarded to Cub Scout Packs that meet various criteria at re-charter. Starting in 2007 a new procedure will be in place. Units seeking this award will be required to complete a commitment form in order to earn the new Centennial Quality Unit Award. I am not sure about all of the details, and when I checked the links to additional information pages on the Atlanta Area Council page did not work. I will update you as I learn more.

School Night for Scouting

2007-06-01T14:31:00.000-04:00

Please start your planning now for your annual School Night for Scouting. Many Cub Scout packs recruit from a specific elementary school or have an elementary school as a sponsoring organization. Some packs recruit from several schools. Whatever your individual situation, start now to plan for an effective recruiting year in the fall. Coordinate the date with the appropriate personnel at your school and prepare a brouchure for distribution when school starts. Some schools allow a visit by a District Executive to recruit boys for the Cub Scouts. Want some hints about how to do it right? Here is a good article from Scouting Magazine on School Night for Scouting Promotion.

Dobbins Color Guard Detail

2007-06-01T14:04:00.000-04:00

Do your Cubs know how to perform a flag ceremony? Want to see the real thing? You can request a Color Guard detail from Dobbins Air Force Base by calling 678-655-5272. Your Cubs will learn the rules for proper handling of the American flag and will see the presentation of the colors performed by experts. This is truly a first-rate presentation.

Cub Scout Leader Training

2007-06-01T13:51:00.000-04:00

As you recruit new Cub Scout leaders for your Pack, be sure to train them using the Cub Scout Leader Fast Start Training. This is on-line training which brings your new leaders up to speed quickly. Then follow that training up with Cub Scout Leader Basic Training in two parts: New Leader Essentials, and Leader Specific Training. Cub Scout training in the North Atlanta District is usually handled by Eric Mowris.

Cub Scout Podcasts

2007-06-01T11:54:00.000-04:00

Cubcast

For official BSA podcasts, go to Cubcast. The podcasts include a variety of informative topics of interest to Cub Scout leaders and parents. There are also a variety of podcasts on topics of interests to Cub Scout leaders that are not official BSA podcasts. These include "Akela's Adventure," "Baloo's Roundtable," and "An Hour a Week? Cub Scout Podcast," all of which are available for subscription at Apple's iTunes store.

On-Line Scout Shop

2007-06-01T11:36:00.001-04:00

To find official Cub Scout merchandise on-line, go to Scoutstuff.org.

Pinewood Derby Track

2007-06-01T10:37:00.001-04:00

I wanted to recommend the aluminum Pinewood Derby track manufactured by Best Track. My Pack recently purchased a track from this company and were very pleased with its performance at our Pinewood Derby. Check out their Web Site for more information.

Boys Life Magazine

2007-06-01T10:28:00.000-04:00

A tremendous asset to your Cub Scout Pack is Boys Life Magazine. Subscriptions are inexpensive and provide your Cubs (and you) with a regular reminder of the many different Cub Scout activities and events. My Pack makes a subscription to Boys Life a part of our registration fee so that we have 100% participation in this important programing aid. Please consider adding a subscription for all of your boys. They will be glad you did.

PDK Airshow

2007-06-01T09:11:00.000-04:00

A quick tip for summertime Pack activity -- take in an airshow like the Peachtree DeKalb Airport's "Good Neighbor Day" Open House and Air Show scheduled this year for June 2 from Noon to 5:00 p.m. The show is free. Parking is $3 per car.

Outdoor Activities Near Atlanta

2007-05-31T15:07:00.001-04:00

Scouting is all about the outdoors, and Atlanta has many wonderful places to enjoy nature. Here are a few places my Cub Scouts have enjoyed visiting:

Stone Mountain. The hike up the mountain actually is fairly easy, although at places the climb is steep and rest stops are welcome. Those of you who have made the hike know that the view from the top of Stone Mountain is spectacular, particularly in the morning. Patches are available at the store at the base of the mountain.

Kennesaw Mountain. Another great hike for your Cubs, this one a little longer and tougher. There are numerous trails in this park, but the trip up the mountain will never be forgotten. Also visit the historic earthworks and Civil War battle fields. Bird watching is a special treat here. The Visitors Center sometimes has patches but in my experience they are frequently sold out.

Chattahoochee Nature Center. This is a fantastic resource for the Atlanta area. There are several guided hikes, the famous Owl Prowl, and several programs that are specifically designed to help Cub Scout Achievements and Electives. Don't miss this!

Chattahoochee River National Recreational Area. There are numerous scenic hikes along the beautiful Chattahoochee River. The National Park Service publishes detailed trail maps which are free on the Web. Check out the West Palisades scenic overlook over the Devil's Racecourse Shoals for a trip your Scouts will remember.

Arabia Mountain. Located off of I-20 East near the Stone Creste Mall, this site has 12.7 miles of hiking and biking trails, and was recently designated a National Heritage Area.

Silver Comet Trail. A sixty mile trail running along a converted rail line from Atlanta to the Alabama line.

Red Top Mountain State Park. Twelve miles of hiking trails, overnight camping, fishing, lodge and recreational facilities located at Lake Allatoona. Ask about the Party with the Possums night hike on Friday nights.

Sweetwater Creek State Park. Nine miles of trails and a 215 acre reservoir for fishing and canoes. Explore ruins of a Civil War mill. I-20 West near Lithia Springs.

Etowah Indian Mounds Historic Site. Near Cartersville. This is a 54-acre site containing six large Indian mounds and a small museum with artifacts. Most intact Mississippian culture site in the Southeast.

Do you have other suggestions? Let me know.

Webelos Activity Badges

2007-05-31T14:57:00.001-04:00

I found teaching Webelos Activity Badges to be a fairly challenging experience. Here are some ideas that I used successfully. I started by creating what amounts to a lesson plan for each activity. I copied the requirements for each activity badge so that I would always have clearly in mind what was needed to pass the badge. I then planned a program which would accomplish each of the various requirements. As much as possible I used games for the teaching activity. I combined "active" games with other games which were more "pen and pencil" type games. For example, for Citizenship Activity Badge I used the "Ring the Liberty Bell" game. I located a small bell at a crafts store, then hung the bell under a coathanger that I twisted into a circle and hung from the ceiling. The boys tried to ring the bell by tossing a small ball at the bell. I also made a game out of trying to identify civic leaders of Atlanta and Georgia. For my less active game, I located pictures of our Senators, Representative, Mayor on the internet and then printed them and placed them on a poster board along with their names on small Post It notes. I then had a contest to determine which Webelos could identify the most elected officials. I purchased small prizes like a balsa wood airplane or a pack of gum to award to the winner of the game ("The winner of this contest will win this pack of delicious Doublemint gum.") The boys will go crazy working on the game in order to win the pack of gum. This makes what could be a boring lesson into something more fun. Save these unit "lesson plans" and place them in a notebook for the Webelos den that follows yours. They will keep getting better and better every year!

Scout Night at the Atlanta Braves

2007-05-31T14:30:00.001-04:00

Scout Night at the Atlanta Braves is scheduled for Thursday, June 7 at 7:35 p.m. Tickets are $6 and $12 and are available in limited quantities, so buy them now! To join in a parade on the field before the game, have your group lined up about an hour and a half before the start time. Check here for more details.

OA-Trailblazer Adventure Camp

2007-05-31T11:02:00.001-04:00

This outdoor education program will be held on October 6, 2007 at Bert Adams Scout Reservation, with overnight camping optional on Friday and Saturday night. Cub Scout events include archery, BB gun shooting, outdoor games, nature activites, fishing, and many other fun and exciting activities. Register early. More information is available at http://www.aacegwa.org/.

National Summertime Pack Award

2007-05-27T15:30:00.000-04:00

Please consider setting up summer activities for your Pack to earn the National Summertime Pack Award.

Cub Scout Patch Vest

2007-05-26T19:47:00.001-04:00

Encourage your Cub Scouts to buy a Patch Vest from the Scout Shop. Try to award a patch for each and every activity that your Cub Scouts participate in, even if these are not "official" patches. The patch vest is a physical reminder of just exactly how many activities your Cub Scout has enjoyed over the course of his Scouting experience.

Wood Badge Course 92-57

2007-05-26T13:38:00.000-04:00

Wood Badge Course 92-57 is still recruiting participants, but the course is filling up fast. This program is the Ph.D. of Scouter training and we offer an excellent program in the Atlanta Area Council. More information is available at this link http://www.aacwoodbadge.com/.

Useful Web Links

2007-05-26T13:11:00.000-04:00

The internet offers many great links for Cub Scouts. Links of special importance to Cub Scout leaders in the North Atlanta District can be found here:

Atlanta Area Council
Boy Scouts of America
The Virtual Cub Scout Leader
U.S. Scouting Service Project
The Cub Scout Roundtable
CubRoundtable
Cubmaster.org

Do you have any great links to share?