Welcome all Weblos!

I can not believe summer has come and gone so fast. We are nearly 1/2 way through the 1st quarter of school and the scout year is off and running. So far we have had a slow start as we have tried to accommodate schedules and join forces with the other 2 Webelos dens. Kent and/or I will be sending out calenders soon to let you plan for future meetings and events.

Learning to Whittle

This week we taught the boys how to safely handle a knife. We started by reviewing the safety rules, and how and why we sharpen our knives. After that the boys learned the Pocket Knife Pledge as part of earning their Whittling Chip Card. The Whittling Chip is required for all scouts to earn the privilege to use a knife at scouting events such as a camp out. Unfortunately one of the boys learned a valueable lesson the hard way and cut himself in the finger.

Wood Working

This week the boys worked with tools. We learned the names of several tools and what they are used for. Each boy also built his own tool box. They each did a majority of the work on project and they had to rely on each other for help. It was a fun project and each of them enjoyed taking home something they can use.

PInewood Derby 2011

Once again the boys had a blast at the pack's pinewood derby. Den 4 had 3 boys win awards both for speed and for design. Above is a photo of the boys from our den (Kenton, Christian, Jacob and Josh) Unfortunately Caleb was skiing with his family and wasn't able to make it this year. Below you see all the bear champions and some of our boys at the finish line.

Swan Creek Family Fall Camporee

Last weekend we had a blast at the Fall Family camp out. There were over 600 people who help us celebrate 100 years of scouting. The boys participated in many activities. Some new and some old. They were able to use the archery range, cut logs, learn to lash and start fires. We made W0mp Biscuits, rope, road soap box cars and much more. One of my favorites was learning from the Frontiers Men, re-enactors. They taught us about how they started fires, made tools and utensils and demonstrated how to use some of their weapons. The boys also enjoyed climbing out the rock wall that was new this year. At the campfire the crowd was more enthusiastic than normal. Perhaps because they were
cold, wet and trying to stay warm.