This month I ran what I'm calling a "real" pack meeting. Up until this time our Pack Meetings were no different than our regular den meetings (we all meet weekly at the same place). As the new Cubmaster, I wanted to change this. I didn’t start planning this until last week, so I felt it was by the seat of my pants but I pulled it off.

Last night I set up a head table and blocks of chairs in a square; Webelos to the left, Tigers across from them and Wolfs/Bears in the center. The parents sat behind the Scouts.

For an opening ceremony, I had two Cubs Post the Colors. We then saluted, said the Pledge and then I gave an Invocation.

After a welcome an introduction of the Leaders (and one Run On that fell flat on it's face), I had Scouts in each Den come Front'n'Center for awards. For the Scouts earning their Bobcats, I used the face painting ceremony. The Scouts who earned their Bobcats previously howled that THEY didn't get their face painted ;). Chalk up two points for the new Cubmaster.

We then broke for a game – teams sweeping a balloon around cones. After some announcements (The Cubs all cheered when I said we were going to take part in the Sleepover at The Museum) we retired the colors and has some snacks.

Despite a late start, it took no longer than 45 minutes. The parents were happy we were out by 7:15 and there was time for people to talk to me while the kids had a snack.

It felt really good to conduct the meeting. The boys in their blocks of seats were well behaved and when they stood were in straight rows! After each Scout received his award, there was a nice round of applause when I could tell really pleased them. It really made them feel they accomplished something and not just given an award at the end of a Den meeting.

The Bobcats and their parents really enjoyed the ceremony. I was worried that the boys might think the ceremonies a little corn-ball – but 100 years of Scouting can’t be wrong!

Next month we’ll forgo a pack meeting as we’re caroling at a nursing home. In January, however, we’re going to have the Raingutter Regatta coupled with a Recruitment Night, so I’m starting my planning tonight!

Cubmaster Rob

Pack 3

Pine Tree Council, Maine