Tuesday, November 6, 2012

DEN MEETING UPDATE FOR 11.6.12

Hello Den 4 Akelas!

Here is a quick update, or basically a rehash of the last posting I did...


Den Meeting #4b is tonight 11.6.12...

At the next Den Meeting (11/6/12), we will complete our Den Meeting #4 activities (lets call it Den Meting #4b). 
  • We will do a quick review of the different activities the boys are working on to earn their Fitness Belt Loop.  
  • The Cubs will turn in their 2 week tracking for keeping their body healthy. 
  • We will review the rules and etiquette of the sport of Bowling.
  • Marie and Julie will walk our Cubs through the Achievement 3b and 3c items dealing with first aid.
  • Time pending, Marie will set up her obstacle course that she has for the boys. PLEASE HAVE YOUR WOLF BRING HIS FRISBEE TO THE MEETING (with his name on the Frisbee). Time pending, we might get out and let them learn how to throw them. 
  • We will hand out awards to our Cubs! Those that missed their Bobcat at the Pack Meeting will get it tonight, among some other great items!
For our next meeting on 11/13/12, I'm working with Ms. Courtney (Denner - Ryley) and Mr. Ronnie/Ms. Melissa (Assistant Denner - Andrew) to see if we can schedule a trip to a City Facility. Stay tuned to this Blog for more details and visit www.tinyurl.com/WolfDenMeeting for Den Meeting Details.

If you need information about the Fitness Belt Loop, here are the links...

Fitness Belt Loop Details
http://usscouts.org/advance/cubscout/sports/fitness.asp

PDF document for Fitness Belt Loop
http://usscouts.org/advance/cubscout/sports/worksheets/Physical-Fitness.pdf

All Belt Loop Sports Program
http://usscouts.org/advance/cubscout/sports.asp

Saturday, November 3, 2012


Hello Wolf Akelas!

Tomorrow is our bowling field trip/Tony Teeples Bday party!
Its a combined event, giving our boys the opportunity to earn their bowling belt loop.

Here is the info...

Bowling Field Trip/Bday Party!
Sunday 1-3 pm
AMF Star Lanes
2404 Palmer Highway in Texas City (Across the street from Whataburger)
Located at Palmer and 25th Street
There is no cost for your Wolf...
The party includes bowling, pizza, and shakes!
DRESS FOR FUN. NO CLASS A'S NECESSARY.

Marie has said no gifts required...I'd say optional. What's a
party without gifts ?

Marie also said...if you need to bring your Wolf's brothers
or sisters to get your Wolf to the party, then that's ok!

Remember, by attending, your wolf can earn his Bowling Belt Loop!

See you tomorrow

Thanks

Robert M. Bragg
Wolf Den Leader, Pack 696
robertmbragg@yahoo.com
C: 832.256.8589
H: 281.337.6003

Thursday, October 25, 2012

WOLF CUB AWARDS

Hello Akela's,

Just a friendly reminder to send to Julie the list of awards your Wolf has earned. If your Wolf was a Tiger with us last year, then he probably earned a number of awards during the summer and at the Day Camp he attended, such as bb gun belt loop, archery belt loop, etc.

Please send an email to Julie at Julieann_G@hotmail.com (and copy to me at robertmbragg@yahoo.com). She will compile it into a list for ordering, and we will get it to Genda.

Please send by tomorrow evening.

Thanks,
Robert M. Bragg
Wolf Den Leader


Wednesday, October 24, 2012

DEN 4 UDPATE AND BOWLING FIELD TRIP

Hello Den 4 Akelas!

I'd like to start by saying a big thanks to Marie Teeples (Tony's Akela) and Julie Giddings-Mitchell (Tristan's Akela) for assisting with the Den Meeting #4 (lets call it Den Meeting #4a). The Presentation by our Surprise Guest K-9 Officer and his Police Dog took a bit longer than we thought it would, so we had to rush Marie and Julie through their presentation. However, shortened as it was, it was a great job! Wonderful idea with the fruit kabobs!

Quick review of Den Meeting #4a...

Our Cubs got to watch a live K-9 Police Dog at work with her Officer. She was able to located items with her very strong nose...I think he said her sense of smell is 200 times more powerful than a human. In addition, he discussed Halloween Safety regarding trick or treating, eating candy, etc. He also discussed some items about gun safety, and what to do if a Cub Scout finds a gun or other weapon laying on the ground.

When we got back to the room, Marie and Julie took over and handed out a wonderful frisbee kit, with health and safety information and comic books, a bottle of water, and a biking map of Texas City. Then the Denner and Assistant Denner assisted the scouts as they made fruit kabobs, to learn how to eat healthy!

We also discussed the Wolf's 3a activity chart that they received at Den Meeting #3. If you don't have it, no problem. Click Here and look at the last page. Print this page, and start with Sunday, Oct. 21st, and have the chart completed for our next Den Meeting on 11/6/12. This will help your Wolf think about the different steps he takes to stay healthy.

We also handed out the Fitness Belt Loop tasks (more info below). At the time, I mentioned working on it for 2 weeks. Upon more review, item #3 requires that the Wolf work on activities for a month and record his improvements. As a result, we will have our Wolves work on the Fitness Belt Loop throughout November and they should have it earned by the Nov. 27th Pack Meeting. Please make sure you work with your Wolf to do the different exercises each week, as I'll be asking them in each Den Meeting about their progress.

Next Den Meeting #4b...

At the next Den Meeting (11/6/12), we will complete our Den Meeting #4 activities (lets call it Den Meting #4b). Marie will set up her obstacle course that she had planned. We will also do a quick review of the different activites the boys are working on to earn their Fitness Belt Loop.  We will also finish the activities 3b and 3c (Marie/Julie - please bring in the supplies for these activities). PLEASE HAVE YOUR WOLF BRING HIS FRISBEE TO THE MEETING (with his name on the Frisbee). Time pending, we might get out and let them learn how to throw them. The Cubs will also turn in their 2 week tracking for keeping their body healthy. I'm working with Ms. Courtney (Denner - Ryley) and Mr. Ronnie/Ms. Melissa (Assistant Denner - Andrew) to see if we will attempt our Den Meeting #5 activities that same day, or wait a week. Stay tuned to this Blog for more details and visit www.tinyurl.com/WolfDenMeeting for Den Meeting Details.

If you need information about the Fitness Belt Loop, here are the links...

Fitness Belt Loop Details
http://usscouts.org/advance/cubscout/sports/fitness.asp

PDF document for Fitness Belt Loop
http://usscouts.org/advance/cubscout/sports/worksheets/Physical-Fitness.pdf

All Belt Loop Sports Program
http://usscouts.org/advance/cubscout/sports.asp


BOWLING FIELD TRIP!!

The Bowling Field Trip is On!! Marie has booked us for Sunday, November 4th, 1-3 pm. Its a combined birthday party for Tony Teeples, and Wolf Field Trip. Because we will be out as a Scout Group, please have your Wolf wear his Uniform, Hat, and all! That way, everyone will know that the Wolf Cubs are out Bowling! And, this Field Trip will help our Wolves earn their Bowling Belt Loop!

Marie has us set up for Kids Bowling, Pizza and Milkshakes, etc. I'll be getting you more information, such as location, etc. However, lock in that date, as we are set! Nov. 4th, 1-3 pm. Please RSVP to me at robertmbragg@yahoo.com and let me know if your Wolf will be attending.

If your Wolf can't make this trip...don't fret! You can have your own family outing with your Wolf and help him earn the loop.

Please see this link for details on earning the Loop.

Belt Loop Information
http://usscouts.org/advance/cubscout/sports/bowling.asp

Belt Loop PDF Document
http://usscouts.org/advance/cubscout/sports/worksheets/Bowling.pdf

As part of the Bowling Belt Loop, the Wolf needs to learn the courtesy and safety items of bowling. Here a few items to help him prepare. Please review these with your Wolf in advance of the outing.

Warm Up

Bowling requires strong arm and back muscles, to deliver the ball with accuracy and speed. Warming up with some gentle stretching of your arms, legs, and back can help prevent injury when you begin your game.

Right Lane

When you approach for a turn, it might be distracting for yourself and other bowlers playing to the right of you. To avoid this, let the bowler to the right go before you. If everybody understands this, then there will be no miscommunication as every bowler lets the next bowler take his turn.

Proper Shoes

Wearing bowling shoes is not just for an ugly fashion statement. The shoes keep the bowling surface smooth and provide bowlers with the best grip for the most accurate shot.

Patience
Patience is the key to keeping lanes running and in order. A bowler should never bowl until the pin-guard gate has been lifted. If you bowl too early, the guard might not go up and could get hit by the ball. Bowling pranks like rolling multiple balls at once, flinging the ball through the air and rolling other types of balls should also be avoided because of damage issues.

Taking Turns
You should only approach the lanes when it is your turn to bowl. If there are a lot of people by the bowling area, balls could accidentally hit people and multiple interference's can be caused. Stay back and give each bowler as much room as possible during a turn.

Observe The Foul Line

Observing your lane's foul line is a rule of both safety and courtesy. The foul line is clearly marked. In many cases, the flooring looks different past the line because it is oiled and more slippery, to allow the ball to roll down the lane with ease. The foul line creates an equal ground for all players...each starts from the same point.

Ball Return

Always be cautious around the ball-return machines. Never stick your hands out while waiting for a ball. Do not overcrowd the ball return or balls could get damaged and knocked off the machine. Your fingers might also get stuck between returned balls if you try to grab one too early.

---------------------
So...what else is going on!!?? Here's what's going on...

10/27/12 - Safety and Health Fair -  See www.cubpack696.blogspot.com for details.

10/30/12 - Pack Meeting at Church - 6:30 as usual. We always try to meet at 6:30 for Den and Pack Meetings to create a habit of attendance on the same day and time. Cubs need to wear their Halloween costumes!


Saturday, October 20, 2012

WELCOME TO DEN 4

Hello Den 4!!

I'm using this blog as a way to keep us updated. As my first step, I'm including below the initial Welcome Letter I wrote a few weeks ago. I'll also be adding a schedule on the side bar to help you see when out next meeting occurs, and who is the Denner and Assistant Denner.

You can always feel free to call me or text me with any questions at 832.256.8589, or by email at robertmbragg@yahoo.com. I also have a gmail address at robertmbragg@gmail.com.

Communication is the key to making sure our Wolfs have a great year! Please be sure to check this Blog, or call/text/email me with any questions.

------------------------


PACK 696
Den 4 – 2012 Wolf Den

Hello Akela's,

I wanted to take a moment to get us all up to speed in regards to our new cub scout season. Our Wolves are getting ready for a new adventure of achievements and electives, allowing them to earn their Wolf badge, and prepare for the Bear Rank!

At our last den meeting, we established a couple of things. Primarily, we established which of our Wolf Scouts and their Hosting Akela's will be assisting with the den meetings. Our Wolf Helpers are named the Denner and Assistant Denner. I've laid out our schedule below, with some dates. Of course, these dates can change, and probably will, however it gives us a good start.

You will probably want to refer to this website often. It contains the details of each Den Meeting and you can download and print a PDF for your own use. www.tinyurl.com/WolfDenMeeting.

Here is our basic layout of each Den Meeting. I printed in RED the area that specifically refers to our Hosting Akelas that are assisting with the Den Meeting.

  1. PREPARATION AND MATERIALS NEEDED:
    This portion is done the week before the den meeting. The Hosting Akelas will use their meeting guide to see what is needed to prep for the den meeting. They are in charge of bringing and/or coordinating all the items necessary for the meeting as noted in this section.
  2. BEFORE THE MEETING:
    The Denner, Assistant Denner, and the hosting Akelas need to show up about 15 minutes early to the den meeting (typical start time is 6:30 pm, so please arrive at 6:15 pm). We will use this time to prep for the den meeting and discuss the roles of our Denners. They will be in charge of organizing the room, getting the U.S. Flag, etc. Again, the meeting guide will hep you with this section.
  3. GATHERING:
    As Wolves and Akela's arrive, our goal is to engage everyone and keep the Wolves occupied with games, etc. Again refer to your meeting guide. Our Hosting Akelas can have a few games or activities planned for this time period, or give out some healthy snacks.
  4. OPENING:
    The opening is lead by the Den Leader. It is is a very important part of our den meeting, as it gets our cubs ready and prepared. Before we have our flag ceremony, we will open with a special ceremony at the beginning of each meeting. This ceremony is to establish the position of our Denner and Assistant Denner, helping them to understand the importance of their role. Installing a boy as a Denner helps him learn that responsibilities come with a title and his leadership is important to the den. It will also increase the other Cubs excitement about their turn to be the Denner. This ceremony will look like this...
    1. PREPARATION: Set a white candle and matches or flashlight to light it where everyone can see it. Have a Denner and assistant Denner shoulder cord ready to present to the chosen boys.
    2. DEN LEADER: Wolf Scout [Name of new Denner], will you please step forward and light our candle. (The Denner lights the candle.) This white candle represents the spirit of Scouting. It takes team effort to keep the spirit alive—to keep the candle burning. You have just been elected to be a member of that team. As Denner, your duties are to assist our den. You will help lead the den in our flag ceremony, record attendance, and all other items as required to help the den. During the week, you will set a good example for the other members of our den by being honest and fair, and showing true Scouting spirit. Do you accept these responsibilities?
    3. DENNER: I will do my best.
    4. DEN LEADER: I’m happy to present to you the Denner cord, which is to be worn on your left sleeve during your term of office. Wear it proudly and with honor. Congratulations!
    5. ASSISTANT DEN LEADER: Wolf Scout [Name of assistant Denner], will you please step forward. [Name] has been selected to be our assistant Denner. His duty will be to help our Denner in his duties. Do you accept your responsibilities?
    6. ASSISTANT DENNER: I will do my best.
    7. ASSISTANT DEN LEADER: We present to you the assistant Denner cord that is to be worn on your left sleeve during your term of office. Congratulations!
    8. CONCLUSION: Upon completion, we will have the flag ceremony, saluting the U.S. flag and reciting the Pledge of Allegiance. Then, while showing the Cub Scout sign, we will recite the Cub Scout Promise and Law of the Pack. Finally, we will have our Denner make role call, with each Wolf responding with a howl.
  5. BUSINESS ITEMS:
    The Den Leader and Assistant Den Leader will run this section. This will be as per the meeting guide.
  6. ACTIVITES:
    This is where our Hosting AKELA'S will step in, and take over their part of the meeting. The Den Leader will introduce them as the ACTIVITY LEADER and ASSISTANT ACTIVITY LEADER, to ensure that each Wolf acknowledges their leadership in the Activity section. The meeting guide will outline this section. The Den Leader and Assistant Den Leader will help as necessary to keep the Wolves focused.
  7. CLOSING:
    The Den Leader and Assistant Den Leader will run this section. We will hand out awards at this point. The Denner and Assistant Denner will retire the flag, and lead the group in either a Den Yell or Law of the Pack. See meeting guide for details.
  8. AFTER THE MEETING:
    Denner and Assistant Denner make sure the room is clean and tidy. See meeting guide for details.

As you can see, we will follow a basic outline for each meeting. The meeting guide for your specific den meeting will give you all the details you need to prepare for the ACTIVITY section.

Below are the assignments for each meeting. The Akela's for the Denner and Assistant Denner will be our Hosting Akelas. If for some reason you can't make your specific den meeting, please connect with another Akela and trade your time.

Date - Den Meeting # and Plan - Denner - Assistant Denner

9/18/12 - #1: Bobcat and Your Flag - Andrew - Ryan

9/25/12 - PACK MEETING


10/2/12 - National Night Out - No Den Meeting

10/9/12 - #2: Your Flag and Feats of Skill - Lucas - Ryley (COMPLETED)

10/16/12 - #3: Your Flag and Sports Electives - Lucas - Tony (COMPLETED)

10/23/12 - #4: Keep Your Body Healthy - Tony - Tristen

TBD - Bowling Field Trip

10/30/12 - PACK MEETING


11/6/12 - #5: Know Your Home/Community/Be Safe - Ryley - Andrew

11/13/12 - #6: Make a Gift and Sing-Along - Ryley - Andrew

11/20/12 - #7: Your Living World and Tie It Right - Anthony - Caden Allen

TBD - #8: Cooking and Eating and Start a Collection - Tony - Caiden G,

TBD - #9: Tools for Fixing and Building - Caiden - Lucas

TBD - #10: Birds - Caiden - Tristan

TBD - #11: Making Choices - Andrew - Ryan

TBD - #12: Books, Books, Books - Ryan - Andrew

TBD - #13: Pets - Tristan - Caiden

TBD - #14: American Indian Lore - Caden Allen - Tony

TBD - #15: Marbles - Caden Allen - Anthony

TBD - #16: Outdoor Adventure and Fishing - Ryan - Anthony

I look forward to seeing you all on Tuesday, Sept. 18th, for Den Meeting #1!!!

Call me with any questions at C: 832.256/8589 or H: 281.337.6003 or W:281.337.4557

Some good website links to help:

A PDF of the Cub Scout Wolf Handbook (download to your tablet):
Forms and Manuals:
Thanks, and have a FANTASTIC DAY, and make 2012 Your Best Year EVER!!
Robert M. Bragg
Office: (281) 337-4557
Cell: (832) 256-8589

Home: (281) 337-6003NEW EMAIL: robertmbragg@gmail.com

Tuesday, October 2, 2012

Den 4 - Intro to our Blog

Hello Den 4!

I'm using this Blog as a way to keep you all updated of what's happening, and when. It seems that some of us don't have working email, while others don't have working texting abilities. The best way I can think of keeping all informed is by using all options...Phone calls, emails, texting, and then giving you this Blog as a place to go for the source of the info.

I'll be adding info here to help us give our Wolf Scouts the best scouting season ever! And, this blog will follow our scouts all the way through to their graduation into Boy Scouts!

Thanks for staying involved!
Your Wolf Den Leader,
Robert M. Bragg