Coming to a mailbox near you...popcorn gift cards!

Hi.
The Council has let us know that the popcorn recognition gift cards are coming to a mailbox near you...they are being mailed to each individual scout's house and should arrive in the next few days.  Keep an eye out!

As a reminder, previous Pack news are available on cubscouts661.blogspot.org - info on Pinewood Derby and Winter Weekends at Heritage are still current.

Enjoy the season.

Racefans! HotRodders!

Everyone should have a Pinewood Derby kit by now.  If you don't, please contact your Den Leader.

For anyone looking to work on your car over the upcoming break, here is the check-in form that will be used when your car is turned in on Friday night (Jan 24).

Also included is the list of categories for the Design Awards.  Voting is done by the entire pack while the race is taking place on Saturday (Jan 25).

Don't forget- a Car Clinic will be held in January for anyone who needs some tips!

Reminder: Pack Meeting on Monday 12/9 & Winter Weekends at Heritage

Hi.
A reminder that the Pack will gather on Monday 12/9 at 7pm in Fellowship Hall at Westminster.

All scouts will receive their pinewood derby kits!

The track will be set up (no timers or formal races - just for fun).

All returning scouts are encouraged to bring their prior cars to have some fun running them on the track - and to show the new Cubs your cool ideas of recent years!
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Are you looking for a cool gift idea for your son?  How about one on one time?
Check out http://heritagereservation.org/winter/winterc.php and think about scheduling the best gift of all - special time with your son.  Winter Weekends at Heritage are fun; you stay in houses while enjoying the snow and outdoors in the mountains.  A couple of weekends are already filled up - once you go, you'll look forward to going back next year!
http://heritagereservation.org/winter/winterc.php
Register today - and wrap up a certificate of a good time for your son to really look forward to spending with you!  (moms and or dads are welcome!)

Friday, November 29, 2013; Eighth Annual Scouting Ten Commandment Hike

A message from Laurel Highlands Council:: 
 
A Scout is Reverent! Since 2006, almost 3,000 people have attended the Ten Commandment Hike! Make sure that you don’t miss the fun of the 2013 hike! 

What is a Ten Commandment Hike?I t’s a unique and exciting way to embrace the concept of religious tolerance, learn local history, participate in community service, and have fun. And it’s a good way to work off that Thanksgiving dinner!
The Ten Commandment Hike is open to all Cub Scouts, Boy Scouts, Venturers, and their families. The leisurely and stroller friendly walk will be just under four miles, visiting ten religious institutions in the Shadyside and North Oakland sections of Pittsburgh..
 
The cost of the hike is $8.00 per participant. The fee includes a special patch, hot chocolate along the way, juice at lunch, and dessert. ALL hikers must be registered and paid before commencing the hike. Bring a bag lunch, water, snacks, AND a canned good for the food bank
 
Organ Recitals — Starting at 8:45am, and at many of the stops along the way, hike participants will be able to listen to classical music and sing songs accompanied by the majestic organs in the Synagogue, Churches, and Cathedrals. Scouts will also listen to a short presentation on how pipe organs make music.
Hike begins promptly at 8:45 am at Rodef Shalom Temple,  The hike will end at approximately 4:30pm. Small children are welcome and they may hike for free, but it is strongly recommended that you bring a stroller. All Scouts and Scouters MUST wear a Class “A” uniform. 

Tour Phipps Conservatory — After the hike, visit over 10 acres of indoor gardens housed in a Victorian Greenhouse. See the new 14,000 square foot tropical forest conservatory and view the Dale Chihuly blown glass sculpture collection valued at over $1.2 million. Phipps is absolutely beautiful at night! 
 
Phipps is located in Schenley Park, just one mile from the start of the hike and has ample parking as well. Phipps Conservatory is open until 10:00pm on Fridays. There is a café where you can get a bite to eat.
Admission to Phipps Conservatory is FREE on Friday 11/29 from 4pm - 10pm to Scouts and Scouters who are wearing a uniform AND have a Ten Commandments Hike Patch 


For additional information, the hike route, and any last minute information, visit the Council Website :

www.LHC-BSA.org/JCos

or send an email to
cw@kreimers.com

The cost of each hiker over 5 years old is $8.00 per person. All registrations are made on-line at www.LHC-BSA.org. You can also pay online this year! Registration will be open through November 27,2013. However a $2 late fee will be due if registration is made after 9pm on Monday, November 25,2013.All registrations will be combined into a single packet for each unit for patch & program distribution the day of the hike

Register for the 10 Commandment Hike

Questions: Call the Council Service Center at 412-471-2927.
Sponsored by the Laurel Highlands Council, BSA
Jewish Committee on Scouting

Reminder: Cub Scouts - Adult Planning Meeting, Monday 11/18 8pm, Room 107

Hi,
Reminder that all adults are welcome to join in at the monthly planning meeting.
We will gather at 8pm on Monday 11/18 in Room 107 (enter by playground, turn right down hall, right into room).

The agenda will include Pinewood Derby, Blue & Gold Banquet, spring event planning....please spend an hour to help the Pack succeed.

Reminder: Flag Plaza (Thurs 11/14 6:30pm) and info: Ski Passes for 4th/5th graders

Hi.
A reminder that the Cubs of Pack 661 will gather at Flag Plaza in downtown Pittsburgh (1275 Bedford Avenue Pittsburgh, PA 15219) tomorrow night.  There is plenty of free parking in the lot at Flag Plaza.
We will start at 6:30pm and should finish between 8 and 8:15pm.
Cubs should wear their uniform (if they have them) for the historic flag ceremony.
We will need two adults with good handwriting to assist in completing certificates - please tell Jeff when you get there that you can help.


Are you ready for some skiing?
Did you know that 4th and 5th graders can receive free ski passes? Check out http://skipa.com/learn-to-skiride/4th5th-grade-programs

Reminder: Pack Meeting on Monday 11/11, Flag Plaza on Thurs 11/14

Hi,
A 24 hour reminder...

Pack Meeting
Monday, November 11, 7pm
Westminster Presbyterian Church
Fellowship Hall
* If you haven't given your $50 dues to your den leader or the treasurer, this would be a good night to bring it.

Historic Flag Ceremony

Thursday , November 14, 6:30pm

Flag Plaza

Downtown Pittsburgh (right next to old Mellon Arena)

1275 Bedford Avenue Pittsburgh, PA 15219 

Pack 661's night at Flag Plaza in downtown Pittsburgh for a tour and history of our flags...

http://lhc-bsa.org/Flag%20Plaza/Historic%20Flag%20Ceremonies

It's time for some popcorn (pickup) !

A reminder...

 

Popcorn Pickup...

Hello everyone! Popcorn pickup will be Saturday November 2nd from 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM at Westminster Presbyterian Church in Fellowship Hall; the same room in which we have our Pack meetings.

If you need anything or have questions, please shoot me an email at kernel661@verizon.net. And if you need to get in touch with me on pickup day, I can be reached on 412-770-7673.

Thanks for selling and see you tomorrow morning!

Dan

 

Popcorn Pickup and...save the date..Historic Flag Ceremony at Flag Plaza

Popcorn Pickup...

Hello everyone! Popcorn pickup will be Saturday November 2nd from 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM at Westminster Presbyterian Church in Fellowship Hall; the same room in which we have our Pack meetings.

If you need anything or have questions, please shoot me an email at kernel661@verizon.net. And if you need to get in touch with me on pickup day, I can be reached on 412-770-7673.

Thanks for selling and see you on the 2nd!

Dan

 

Looking ahead ....

Pack Meeting

November 11, Westminster

 

Historic Flag Ceremony

New Event - we just received our confirmation!

Thursday , November 14, 6:30pm

Pack 661's night at Flag Plaza in downtown Pittsburgh for a tour and history of our flags...

http://lhc-bsa.org/Flag%20Plaza/Historic%20Flag%20Ceremonies

October Pack Meeting Recap

We had at least 47 scouts at last night's meeting.  Great Turnout!  Our scouts did us proud by being attentive and quiet during the presentation.

Popcorn orders and money were turned in last night.  If you still need to do this, get in touch with Dan at kernel661@verizon.net today!

Please RSVP to the Elson Farm campout link by 8:00 PM tonight.  Do it online here:  http://cubscouts661.blogspot.com/2013/10/are-you-ready-for-some-camping-oct-1920.html  

Join us for an opening flag ceremony tonight for USC Field Hockey.  Meet 7:20 at field behind Boyce Middle School.  Anthem will happen sometime between 7:30 and 8. 

Adults interested in BALOO training- please contact cubscouts661@verizon.net  to register for the October 26 session.  Please contact Tuesday or Wednesday so we can register in time.

We are ordering uniform patches (red 661, council shoulder patch, purple world crest, and den number).  These will be distributed by the den leaders when the order arrives.

Next month's Pack meeting is back to our normal Westminster Church location at 7 PM.  The meeting focuses on advancements- please report any advancements to your den leaders.

…and don't forget to change your smoke alarm batteries next month when the clocks change!

News for tomorrow (Monday) night's Pack Meeting

Reminder- The Monday, October 14 Pack Meeting will be held at our usual 7 PM at the Upper St Clair Fire Station (you can park at the fire station).  We will be trained in how to use a fire extinguisher, and then get a chance to use it on an actual fire.

Before the excitement begins, we will have a few pieces of business to cover:

1. If you have not already paid this fall, Please bring your $50 dues.  Cash or a check made out to Pack 661.

2. Popcorn order forms and checks are due tonight as well.

3. Den Leaders- please send an email with your den's roster (names and emails at a minimum) to cubscouts661@verizon.net by the end of the night Monday (a few have already been sent; no need to re-send).  We need an accurate roster to process the popcorn and dues payments.

4. "Last Call" for next weekend's overnight camping.  Please see http://cubscouts661.blogspot.com/2013/10/are-you-ready-for-some-camping-oct-1920.html  for details and RSVP using the link there.  Signups need to close on Tuesday night at 8 PM in order to plan for activities and food.


We also announce that the scouts have been invited to be part of a flag ceremony.  We need some scouts to present the flag at a USC Girls Field Hockey game for the National Anthem.

We will meet at the artificial turf field at Boyce Middle School at 7:20 in uniform on Tuesday October 15th.  Please let Greg know if you can attend at sarkett@verizon.net> or sign up at the Pack meeting.

October happenings in Cub Scout Pack 661

Hi.
A few highlights of our busy month...

Sun Oct 13 - Cub Fun Day -at South Park (http://cubscouts661.blogspot.com/2013/09/sign-up-for-cub-fub-day-corrected-email.html)

Mon Oct 14 - Pack Meeting - 7pm at Fire Station.  Please note that we'll be meeting across the street from our usual - at the Fire Station, 7pm on Monday the 14th.
Also - Popcorn forms are due by Oct 14 (http://cubscouts661.blogspot.com/2013/10/popcorn-sale-faq.html)

Sat/Sun Oct 19-20 - Pack Camping - sign up now via http://cubscouts661.blogspot.com/2013/10/are-you-ready-for-some-camping-oct-1920.html

Sat Nov 2 (tentative-stay tuned) Popcorn distribution.

Are you ready for some camping (Oct 19/20)

Hi,
The leaves are starting to fall which means...it's time for an overnight camping trip!

Saturday Oct 19 - Sunday Oct 20

Once again at Elson Farm in nearby Toronto OH (near Stuebenville) this trip should be good fun for the Cubs and parents!

For those attending, please submit the form at:https://docs.google.com/spreadsheet/viewform?formkey=dFBmRjE0TFFmNkMySXNHNFhLWDZJdkE6MA#gid=0

The camping committee could use a person or two in pre-support (planning) and activity help, so please let us know via the form that you are able to tune in!


Enjoy the weekend !

Popcorn Sale FAQ

Hi.
A few answers to the top questions regarding popcorn sale...
1) When do we need to have our forms turned in? October 14th to Dan C.  

2) What are the minimum sales levels for new cubs vs returning cubs?

 $100.00 for new cubs.  $250.00 for returning veteran cubs.

3) What are the prize levels/amounts?

Patch (at least one sale)

$300 Sales ($10 Wal-Mart or Target GC)

$600 Sales ($20 Wal-Mart or Target GC)

$900 Sales ($30 Wal-Mart or Target GC)

$1200 Sales ($50 Wal-Mart or Target GC)

$1500 Sales ($75 Wal-Mart or Target GC)

$1800 Sales ($100 Wal-Mart or Target GC)

$2100 Sales ($125 Wal-Mart or Target GC)

$2400 Sales ($150 Wal-Mart or Target GC)

4) When is pick-up?: We expect to have popcorn ready for you to pick up on 11/1 or 11/2, maybe 11/3, depending on when council releases it to us.

If you have any other questions, please contact cubscouts661@verizon.net and we'll get the info to you...

Sign up for Cub Fub Day- corrected email and date! Third Time's a Charm!

Have you been to Cub Fun Day before?  It's when we wind down the fall with about 300 other scouts, shooting water rockets, archery, BB guns and more!

Are you new to the pack?  This is a great activity for your new scout to see what we get to do at our Day Camp and Summer Camp programs.  It is a one-day version of all of the fun stuff (except for camping in the rain!)


This is the best and earliest opportunity (other than summer day camp or a trip to Heritage) in the scout year to take advantage of all of the cool stuff that our district has to offer!


Where and When:
Sunday, OCTOBER 13 from 9:30-3:00
Altoona Grove in South Park

What does it cost?
Registration is $8 (bring it with you)
Bring a lunch or some money to buy lunch at the concession stands.

How do I register?
Send an email to cubscouts661@verizon.net  with your scout's name and rank.  Please reply by Sunday night 9/29 so that the planners have some warning as to how many scouts are coming!

What else should I know?
You should wear your red Pack 661 shirt if you have one... and if you don't, we'll have some for sale there.
Parents are welcome to stay- some do, and it helps us keep the scouts together.  Plus, they always seem to have one or two open BB guns or Bows that wind up being used by Moms or Dads.

Cub Fun Day- Reposted with OCTOBER !!! date

Have you been to Cub Fun Day before? It's when we wind down the fall with about 300 other scouts, shooting water rockets, archery, BB guns and more!

Are you new to the pack? This is a great activity for your new scout to see what we get to do at our Day Camp and Summer Camp programs. It is a one-day version of all of the fun stuff (except for camping in the rain!)


This is the best and earliest opportunity (other than summer day camp or a trip to Heritage) in the scout year to take advantage of all of the cool stuff that our district has to offer!


Where and When:
 Sunday, OCTOBER 13 from 9:30-3:00
Altoona Grove in South Park

What does it cost?
Registration is $8 (bring it with you)
Bring a lunch or some money to buy lunch at the concession stands.

How do I register?
Reply to this email with you scout's name and rank. Please reply by Sunday night 9/29 so that the planners have some warning as to how many scouts are coming!

What else should I know?
You should wear your red Pack 661 shirt if you have one... and if you don't, we'll have some for sale there.
Parents are welcome to stay- some do, and it helps us keep the scouts together. Plus, they always seem to have one or two open BB guns or Bows that wind up being used by Moms or Dads.

Sign Up NOW For Cub Fun Day 2013 !

Have you been to Cub Fun Day before?  It's when we wind down the fall with about 300 other scouts, shooting water rockets, archery, BB guns and more!

Are you new to the pack?  This is a great activity for your new scout to see what we get to do at our Day Camp and Summer Camp programs.  It is a one-day version of all of the fun stuff (except for camping in the rain!)


This is the best and earliest opportunity (other than summer day camp or a trip to Heritage) in the scout year to take advantage of all of the cool stuff that our district has to offer!


Where and When:
Sunday, August 13 from 9:30-3:00
Altoona Grove in South Park

What does it cost?
Registration is $8 (bring it with you)
Bring a lunch or some money to buy lunch at the concession stands.

How do I register?
Reply to this email with you scout's name and rank.  Please reply by Sunday night 9/29 so that the planners have some warning as to how many scouts are coming!

What else should I know?
You should wear your red Pack 661 shirt if you have one... and if you don't, we'll have some for sale there.
Parents are welcome to stay- some do, and it helps us keep the scouts together.  Plus, they always seem to have one or two open BB guns or Bows that wind up being used by Moms or Dads.

Field Hockey flag ceremony is CANCELED

Our scouts are not going to be doing the flag ceremony on Tuesday night's Field Hockey game.  The game  is canceled.  If another opportunity comes up we will let everyone know.

Verifying/Cleaning up Cub Scout e-mail distribution list (please read!)

Hi.
It is time for our yearly clean-up of the e-mail distribution list of Cub Scout Pack 661.  We *think* that we've removed all the Scouts who graduated to the Troop or moved away or whatever.

However, IF you are receiving this message and you are no longer in need of Pack 661 news & notes, please e-mail cubscouts661@verizon.net with the word "remove" in the subject line.

As much as we know that you want the news from the Pack, we don't want to spam you if you no longer are in Pack 661....





Thank You!
Have a good day
(and don't forget the Pack meeting at 7pm at Westminster tonight)

First Pack Meeting is on Monday & more...

Reminder- Pack 661's first meeting is this coming Monday (9/9) at 7 PM.  We'll have lots of news for the coming year for scouts and parents too.

Also,

Our pack was invited to present the flag at the USC Girls Field Hockey game for the National Anthem on their Youth Night Celebration (Tuesday, Sept 10th).


We will meet at the artificial turf field at Boyce Middle School at 7:20 in uniform on Tuesday Sept 10th. Please let Greg know if you can attend at sarkett@verizon.net or sign up at the Pack meeting.

Popcorn sale is on!

It’s that time of year again. That’s right, popcorn time!



I know our first Pack meeting isn’t until the 9th, but the popcorn sale starts today, August 28th,and I wanted to make sure that everyone has a chance to get started as soon as they can. I will have forms with me at the meeting on the 9th, but you can use this link now to download and print a copy or two for your use right away. http://lhc-bsa.doubleknot.com/document/2013-popcorn-order-form/129380


Orders will be due to be turned in to me by October14th, and the pick-up date will likely be November 1st, but that could move a day in either direction depending on the council schedule.

I will have more information at the Sept 9th Pack meeting, but if there are any questions in the meantime, please call or email, kernel661@verizon.net

Thanks!

Dan

ANOTHER chance to swim at Montclair pool...

After enjoying the Pack pool party tonight, here's another chance to visit the Montclair Pool.
The neighborhood association is hosting a Family Fun Pool Party, with proceeds benefiting the Patrick O'Brien Memorial Fund.

(Patrick was a member of Cub Scout Pack 366)

Sent by request of the Montclair neighborhood association:

Family Fun Pool Party
Proceeds benefit the Patrick O'Brien Memorial Fund
Enjoy an afternoon of fun with kids of all ages!
Friday, August 23rd, 4:00 to 9:00 p.m.
 Montclair Estates Neighborhood Pool / Open to the Public
FEATURED ACTIVITIES…..
APPEARANCE BY THE CHICK-FIL-A COW
BOUNCE HOUSE
TOUR A FIRE TRUCK
FACE PAINTING
GAMES & WATER BALLOONS
SAND VOLLEYBALL
SWIMMING
50/50 JAILHOUSE BREAK

Hot Dogs, Salads, Desserts & Beverages

     LOCATION             
Montclair Estates               
Neighborhood Pool                 
1200 Sherbrook Dr.  
Upper St. Clair   
Cost:
$25 per family
or $10 per adult, $5 per child

RSVP (Musillo@comcast.net) is not necessary, but appreciated to help with planning
Changing Rooms & Showers Available
EVENT RAIN OR SHINE         

Questions: Contact Felicia Musillo at Musillo@comcast.net  or 412.445.7697

All proceeds benefit the Patrick O’Brien Memorial Fund
Please join the Neighbors of Montclair Estates as we continue our mission of raising funds to construct a Fire Truck themed playground in memory of our beloved, Patrick O’Brien.  Patrick lost his courageous battle with Neuroblastoma at the innocent age of eight, only three short years ago.  We as neighbors and friends miss him dearly.  To preserve our cherished memories of young Patrick, we would like to dedicate a playground in his name at the Montclair Pool.  The funding for the playground is near completion as we enter the final phases of planning,  which includes funding the cost of the construction and ground materials. To make this possible, we need your help and financial support.  Please consider attending our Family Fun Pool Party to help make this idea a reality!

We hope to see you there!               

Pool Party- Last Call !

Last call to RSVP for the pool party! 

The food order is being placed Tuesday morning.

If you did not get a chance yet, Please RSVP now to Greg at sarkett@verizon.net with numbers of people coming and what you can bring (salad, side dish, or dessert).

If you already RSVP'ed, you are on the list (24 kids so far!), just make sure we know what you are bringing.

Pool Party Thurs Aug 22- Winding Down Summer and Starting Up CubScouts!

Pack 661 Swim Party


Thursday, August 22

6PM-9PM at Montclair neighborhood pool




You are invited to Pack 661's almost-annual back-to-school Family Swim Party!



This year's event will be on Thursday August 22nd from 6pm-9pm at the Montclair Neighborhood Pool.



The Pack will set up paper goods, lemonade/water and the main dish. Each family is asked to bring either a salad, a side dish, or dessert (your choice!).


So that we have enough life guards and main dish supplies, please RSVP to sarkett@verizon.net with numbers of people coming by Sunday night!


Please talk to your friend or neighbor who is considering joining Cub Scouts this year and invite them to this. Sign them up with your family or forward this e-mail.


Location: Montclair Neighborhood pool (Sherbrook Drive)

Time: 6pm-9pm (dinner 6:20-7:15ish)

Register for MountainFest before it is too late! We already have a group going- join us!

MountainFest is back this Fall.  Several from our Pack went in 2011 and it was a fun time.  The dates are September 20 – 22, 2013.  Cost is $50 per person.  This is a great way for cubs and parents to experience Heritage and a jam-packed schedule of activities with only a weekend time commitment.  You will meet a lot of folks from our council and have time to hang out with our pack.

Check out www.heritagereservation.org/mountainfest   and

http://www.heritagereservation.org/resources/mountainfest/2013/mountainfest%20flyer.pdf

for more information.

Contact Greg Sarkett (sarkett@verizon.net) to register or to ask questions. This is expected to sell out so act quickly if you want to be sure you can go.

Reminder- Pack meeting tonight

Be sure to come to tonight's pack meeting at 7 PM.  It's Rita's Ice night! 

Also some late breaking awards, day camp information, and more.

See you there!

Reminder - playground cleanup on Monday 6/3 6pm @ Westminster!

Reminder...Playground Cleanup...

One of the ways that we express our gratitude to Westminster for the many services that we receive (as in, lots of room usage for our meetings, Pinewood Derby, etc and storage for our equipment) is to swoop to the playground and sweep it up for the coming year. It really doesn't take long and is a great service project for the kids (for some reason, it's easier to get them to clean up someone else's leaves...)
So, come on out and help clean up the playground at Westminster !

This perennial Good Turn will be on Monday 6/3 from 6 PM to approx 8 PM (depending on the number of helpers!). Please bring leaf rakes, brooms, leaf blowers, garbage bags, gloves (and kids in clothes that can get wet). We'll be raking out the leaves from all over, cleaning out the sand box, cleaning all toys and getting the playground ready for the munchkins!

In case of rain, please check your e-mail for an announcement of postponement/rain date...

Memorial Day Ceremony; 9am Monday 5/27; USC Veterans Park

Good morning,
Boy Scout Troop 366 will be participating in the Memorial Day Ceremony on Monday morning at 9am at the USC Veterans Park (McLaughlin Run Road/Municipal Building).

Please consider taking a few moments to join in at this remembrance of those who have served our country. 

Parent's meeting postponed to June 3 (after playground cleanup)

The Parent's meeting is postponed due to good weather.  We'll meeting after the playground cleanup on June 3.


BALOO Training    is on Saturday, June 1.  Baloo training teaches adults how to run a campout weekend within BSA guidlines.  http://lhc-bsa.org/Program/Training/BALOO

The Pack needs to have at least one BALOO Trained adult in order to go on camping trips as a pack.  We need more than the two we have right now!  A group is getting together to sign up... please respond to cubscouts661@verizon.net  by this Wednesday to join in.  The pack will pay the registration fee.


Day Camp at South Park.   If you didn't sign up at last week's pack meeting, remember that Wednesday is the deadline to get the $45 discount rate.  Respond to cubscouts661@verizon.net


http://cubscouts661.blogspot.com/

Pack Meeting Recap and a beautiful Weekend ahead!

Looking forward to a nice weekend? Here are some scout activities to plan for:


Community Day Parade:   Join us Saturday May 17 at 11 AM in the parking lot above the High School football stadium. Look for the Red Pack 661 Shirts. Parade starts at 11:30. Remember, scouts who are marching will get their own bag of candy to take with them afterward.

Don’t have a red shirt? We’ll have them there. Bring $5 with you.


Community Day Booth:   Volunteers are needed to staff the booth. Email cubman661@gmail.com to give a heads-up that you have time to help out.


Heritage Swim Tests:   Join us Sunday May 18 at 5 PM at the Bethel Park High School swimming pool to take your Heritage Swim Test. This is instead of taking the test at camp- it saves you time at camp and is easier here than in the lake.


There’s still time to sign up for camping at Heritage! See the earlier blogspot post: http://cubscouts661.blogspot.com/2013/04/summer-camp-heritage-reservation-it-is.html and don’t forget to get your physicals in the coming weeks!!!


Day Camp:   Sign up for June 24-25-26 Day camp at South Park! If you did not sign up at this week’s pack meeting, sign up by email cubscouts661@verizon.net . The pack will subsidize the fee to get you the $45 rate if you respond by this coming Wednesday May 22. After that, it’s $65. 

Please also respond with a parent volunteer day (or part of the day) if at all possible... we need help keeping the group together.


Playground Cleanup: “Save the date” for this after-dinner service project at Westminster Presbyterian Church on Monday, June 3. More information to come soon!



Enjoy!

Summertime Outdoor Ideas & Volunteering (Ruckus Obstacle, Venture Outdoors, Paddle Without Pollution)

Once again this year we are happy to spread the word on cool ideas to get outside!

The following are not affiliated with Boy Scouting in any way and all information is being sent as a courtesy from friends around the Pack.  If you have other cool summer tips & ideas, please send them to cubscouts661@verizon.net

1) Check out the outdoor obstacle course, Ruckus, via http://www.runruckus.com/pages/ruckus-pittsburgh

2) Venture Outdoors (www.ventureoutdoors.com )is dedicated to providing lots of options to explore Pittsburgh
This coming Saturday, the 18th, is their annual huge festival at Point State Park (http://www.ventureoutdoors.org/vofest.aspx)

Volunteering opportunities

1) Venture Outdoors is looking for volunteers to help with their annual festival on Saturday, 5/18:
http://www.ventureoutdoors.org/vofestvolunteer.aspx and their form: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1pb8ggTzuEHTn9lfP197orOBjSs-2pP68GcBYIeges1s/viewform

2) Paddle Without Pollution (http://paddlewithoutpollution.com/) is a local nonprofit that is dedicated to cleaning up the waterways.  They have a number of weekend cleanup projects scheduled for the summer months...

Yes, playground cleanup is cancelled

Due to inclement weather, playground cleanup is cancelled for today.

Reminder; Playground Cleanup Saturday, May 11

Playground Cleanup...

One of the ways that we express our gratitude to Westminster for the many services that we receive (as in, lots of room usage for our meetings, Pinewood Derby, etc and storage for our equipment) is to swoop to the playground and sweep it up for the coming year. It really doesn't take long and is a great service project for the kids (for some reason, it's easier to get them to clean up someone else's leaves...)
So, come on out and help clean up the playground at Westminster !

This perennial Good Turn will be on Saturday 5/11 from 9am to approx 11:30pm (depending on the number of helpers!). Please bring leaf rakes, brooms, leaf blowers, garbage bags, gloves (and kids in clothes that can get wet). We'll be raking out the leaves from all over, cleaning out the sand box, cleaning all toys and getting the playground ready for the munchkins!

In case of rain, please check your e-mail for an announcement of postponement/rain date...

Last Call ! Sign up for May4-5 camping at Elson Farm!

CUB PACK 661 - ELSON FARM CAMP OUT – ROCKETS AND MORE – SATURDAY MAY 4^TH and SUNDAY MAY 5^TH

Hello Parents – are you and your Cub Scout ready to Camp Out ? It should be a fun event with a good weather forecast. Here are a few updates:

Please register in advance so we can plan food and supplies (no cost). Sign up here: https://docs.google.com/spreadsheet/viewform?formkey=dFdIcmt3WVBzTjR3WlVCaFNRSGtVRUE6MA#gid=0

Also:

- We will meet at Elson Farm starting at 10am Saturday; see the attached activities agenda (any questions please contact me).

- We are revising the driving instructions – they will be out in the next couple of days – the farm is located in Toronto, OH; less than 1 hour from USC.

- Dress Warm ! It will be cooler there and probably a little windy; dress in layers; bring 2 or 3 changes of cloths (just in case) and it may be warm enough for shorts.

- While the forecast it looking positive, be ready for the possibility of rain; rain gear, umbrellas, boots, changes of cloths would be good.

- Lunch, Dinner, Breakfast and snacks are provided; feel free to bring more if you want (or to share).

- Water and drinks are provided – bring a refillable water bottle for each person in your party.

- There are real bathrooms in the building.

- For sleeping, it may get cold so plan for a hat and to wear a second layer before climbing into your sleeping bag.

- Extras like folding chairs and other camp gear are nice to have so bring if you do.

ALSO – does anyone have a model rocket launcher? I need two more in addition to the two (Jeff D and Me) we already have. Let me know !

I will be back to you with anything I forgot . . .

Please contact me by email or phone (412-443-6343) with any questions – Thanks !

Jeff Godish

412-443-6343

TIME	SATURDAY  ACTIVITY
10:00-11:00	Cubs and families arrive; set-up tents
11:00-12:30	Hike and woods activities
12:30-1:30	Prep Lunch – Eat – Clean up
1:30-2:00	Build Rockets
2:00-2:30	Wood gather and fire build Let rockets dry (there is a glued engine ring)
2:30-4:30	Shoot Rockets (each cub gets at least 2 shots)   Snack time
4:30-5:00	Free Time – Den Advancement Activity
4:30-6:00	Prep Dinner – Eat – Clean up
6:00-7:00	Light up Frisbee Can Jam
7:00	Fire building 1-match contest
7:00-9:00	Campfire time – s’mores; snacks to share; songs; etc
8:00- ?	Astronomy and telescopes
	Flashlight tag and light up frisbee tag
10:00- ?	Prep for bed and lights out
	SUNDAY ACTIVITY
7:00am	Prep breakfast – Eat – Cleanup
8:00am	Police area – Break camp - Depart

What's up with Day Camp? "I haven't heard anything"....well,

Hi,
Pack 661 has, in recent years, had a great representation of Cubs at the summer day camp at South Park.  For those years, Colleen P has been the chief instigator, er, leader.
Unfortunately, Colleen is not able to run the Day Camp group this year.

So, that's why you haven't heard much.

We need someone to grab the baton and lead the charge to Day Camp 2013.  The good news: Day Camp is now three days long.  By day four or five, Colleen's voice was usually fading out. 

Are you ready to be our go-to person for Day Camp this year?  Colleen is happy to give you the tips & tricks to success.

Please contact cubscouts661@verizon.net if your Cub is interested in Day Camp and you can join in the fun!

Thank You/Scouting for Food

Pack 661 & Troop 366 - Scouting For Food Collection Sunday

Just wanted to say Thank You to everyone who participated in this years Scouting for Food Effort.

Thank you all very much for a successful effort. It was a fantastic job. Well Done.

If you did not get your “Scouting for Food patch” Let me know & we will get your patch to you, also if you did not sign in Let me know so we can log your service.

For all of you who volunteered in Ushering during todays 3 Services. You were all awesome. The Head Usher at Church was very impressed with all of you & his staff thanks you very much.

Thank you for your service.

Mr Boivin

Reminder; Scouting for Food tomorrow/Sunday 4/21

Pack 661 & Troop 366 - Scouting For Food Collection Sunday

- Sunday 4/21/13 between the hours of 8:00 am untill we finished approximately 12:30 pm, we will be collecting the bags and sorting the food.

We will also be serving as ushers during the services. Some of you have already been asked to participate in Ushering and more will be needed. We will sort that out when you arrive.

Please check in Sunday in fellowship hall. Please arrive early......

Scouting for Food is an important part of the services Southhills Interfaith Ministries provide to needy families.

If you have already RSVP'd I already have you on the list.

If you have not indicated your attendance. do so or just show up.

Wear your Scout Uniform also your neckerchief.

If you have a wagon bring it so we can have an easier time collecting food contributions around the parking areas. If your parent can help we can use there help as well.

I have your scouting for food patches, You be given them at our conclusion.

Thank you all for participating in this effort.

Yours in Scouting

Mr Boivin

Date Change! Playground cleanup...

Hi,
Due to some logistical issues, the playground cleanup needs to be changed to Saturday, May 11.  We will send reminders out closer to that date.  It will not occur this Sat. 4/20 as originally planned - the cleanup will be on 5/11.

As a reminder, help is still needed for Sunday's Scouting for Food.  Please rsvp to cubscouts661@verizon.net.

Scouting for Food & Playground Cleanup

Reminder: Playground cleanup on Saturday morning at Westminster 9 -11:30am.  Come for an hour or more as your time allows!

 

Also, Scouting for Food on Sunday....a message from Mr. Boivin:

 

Many scouts handed out bags and reminders at Westminster services last Sunday.  This week, the parishoners will be bringing food with them to the services.

 

Between the hours of 8:00 am untill we finish (approximately 12:30 pm), we will be collecting the bags and sorting the food.

We will also be serving as ushers during the services. Some of you have already been asked to participate in Ushering and more will be needed.

Scouting for Food is an important part of the services Southhills Interfaith Ministries provides to needy families.

Please rsvp by Friday to cubscouts661@verizon.net for scouts to be at Westminster on Sunday.  We need to ensure that there are enough scouts lined up at each service.

Thank you all for participating in this effort.

Yours in Scouting

Mr Boivin

Playground cleanup Saturday 4/20

Playground Cleanup...

One of the ways that we express our gratitude to Westminster for the many services that we receive (as in, lots of room usage for our meetings, Pinewood Derby, etc and storage for our equipment) is to swoop to the playground and sweep it up for the coming year.  It really doesn't take long and is a great service project for the kids (for some reason, it's easier to get them to clean up someone else's leaves...)
So, come on out and help clean up the playground at Westminster !

This perennial Good Turn will be on Saturday 4/20 from 9am to approx 11:30pm (depending on the number of helpers!). Please bring leaf rakes, brooms, leaf blowers, garbage bags, gloves (and kids in clothes that can get wet). We'll be raking out the leaves from all over, cleaning out the sand box, cleaning all toys and getting the playground ready for the munchkins!

In case of rain, please check your e-mail for an announcement of postponement/rain date...

Sign-up for camping at Elson Farm - May 4-5,.2013

Yes.  It is spring.
The snow has melted.
It's time to go to the Elson Farm...

The annual spring camping trip.
May 4-5, 2013

Sign up here:  https://docs.google.com/spreadsheet/viewform?formkey=dFdIcmt3WVBzTjR3WlVCaFNRSGtVRUE6MA#gid=0

See ya there!

Reminder; Cub Scout Pack meeting tonight (4/8) 7pm

Hi.
As a reminder, the Pack will gather tonight (Mond 4/8) at 7pm at Westminster's Fellowship Hall.
On the agenda:

• Tigers - Flags
• All Cubs - Language and Culture belt loop.
• All Adults - pack planning and leadership
• All - Scouting for Food
• Webelos - Skit