WEBELOS WOODS 2004
May 14-16, 2004. Pack 183 had an outstanding time this year at the
Theodore Roosevelt Council’s annual “Webelos Woods” campout. (See photo)
This year’s theme was “The Wild, Wild West”. Bear Cubs Elliot, Anthony and
Micky, along with their moms, arrived at the Schiff Scout Reservation in
Wading River Friday night
Our campsite was Arrow of Light (closest to the parking lot, yay!) We set
up camp, the boys hauled water, and we got two stoves going for dinner.
“Chef” Anthony, with helpers, made hamburgers. Micky’s mom also bought
some great sausages and we roasted them on sticks over the campfire. We
became fast friends with the other Cub Scout packs camping in our site
(and there were 700 people altogether this weekend!)Marshmallows over the
campfire then bed.
Next morning "Chef" Elliot to order over the grill. Then on to all the
great activities! Since the theme was "Wild Wild West" we had a lot of fun
stuff like visiting "Boot Hill" and the soda shop to sample old fashioned
soda. We also picked up a lot of Scout skills - the boys learned to tie a
bowline and a square knot and the easy way to whip the end of a rope. By
noon Bear Cub Matthew and his dad (a former Scout) joined us for lunch
(tuna sandwiches, Chef Micky) then more fun. Dinner by Chef Matthew
(chili, stew and more sausages) then to the all-camp campfire. Pack 183
did the 'Invisible Park Bench" skit (we got compliments that our boys were
the best - they really spoke out their lines clearly! Not easy in front of
700 people!) Then to bed. Next morning pancakes all around (all the boys
were chefs) then, with the password ("Happy Trails!") we rode off into the
sunset.
And the only "liquid sunshine" that fell on the campsite came around 2 AM
Saturday night, when we were all asleep in our tents. We told the boys
that it rained so we could all test our tents.
Ode to Westbury—2004
On Sunday March 7, the Glenwood Gang rolled out into the street. They
motored east
to Westbury, NY, to compete at the Shelter Rock District Cub Scout
Pinewood Derby Grand Prix.
2004 was promised to be a rebuilding time for the 183’s Derby Team.
We promised last year to improve the timid Tiger Team, along with our
sleepy Wolf Den.
A Scout’s Promise is a solemn thing! We sent three Tigers to race and two
for show.
Three Wolfs to race and one for show. Three Bear racers and one lone
Webelos.
And off to Westbury they did roll. The results are in. After an hour of
elimination runs, all three of our Tiger team racers hung in to qualify
for the final heat. That’s right, I said, “all three!” Yep, three of the
six fastest cars in all of Shelter Rock. It’s been years since the 183’s
pulled off a stunt like that!
And in the Tigers’ final run we saw our Joseph B. cross the finish line in
2nd place! Wow
man, a real doozie of a race and a hard-won, long-awaited Tiger Cub trophy
for Pack 183!
But, wait, wait, wait, our Tigers weren’t done…quite yet. Our Andrew B.
was collecting another trophy—Most Original—3rd Place!
Well, we promised the Tigers something. And, ladies and gentlemen, boys
and girls, they were up to the test.
Two trophies for the Tiger Team!
Our pumped-up Wolf Pack ran next— three of the183’s out to Do Their Best.
Hey, Luc rolled right on through to the final heat. And this hot rookie
racer won a real reward for the 183’s.
2004 District Derby—Wolfs—2nd Place!
Elliot, Micky and Anthony raced For our Bears. In a long afternoon of
eliminations, racing friend against friend, Micky squeaked through the
crowded field in a hot final heat. Standing tall in the Bears’ Winners
Circle, he snagged for us yet another trophy—3rd Place!
Racing as our lone Webe this year, Andrew, the reining Shelter Rock
District Bear Champion, ran into a little engine trouble and was forced
out before the final heats.
But, we’ll always remember him as the 2003 First Place Shelter Rock
Bear—extraordinaire!
There are approximately 2,000 Cub Scouts in all of Shelter Rock. 27
trophies sat on the table at our District Pinewood Derby Race. Four of
those awards rode back home to the Glenwood Garage with the 183’s!
Bully!
On
the Road with the Ambulance Corps!
Dateline, November 14, 2003. Pack 183 hits the
road again – all the way to the Little Neck-Douglaston Community
Ambulance Corps. The volunteers at the LNDCAC showed us the wide
variety of emergency equipment they have in the ambulances. One
plucky volunteer Cub Scout agreed to play the “victim” while the Corps
members demonstrated how they carefully strap someone in for safe
transport. (see
photo) Then, we were invited
inside the two ambulances owned by the Corps – and got to try out the
lights, hear our heartbeats using stethoscopes, and even be bandaged
for practice. We learned that it’s a lot of hard work to become a
Corps member – and everyone is a volunteer! No one gets paid for the
important service they provide our community. (Why not take this
moment to click on this link for the Corps –
www.lndambulance.org - and give them your support!) After we had
a chance to pose on one of the rigs for a
photo,
we gave a mighty 1-2-3-BULLY! for the brave volunteers of the Little
Neck-Douglaston Community Ambulance Corps!
We
Are the Champions....
Dateline, October 25-26, 2003: Ok, so maybe the Yankees didn’t win
the World Series this year. But the Cub Scouts of Pack 183 are
Camping Champions! 10 of our “teammates” and their parents met out at
Christopher Morley Park in Manhasset for our first-ever Fall Campout!
We had a great time – roaring campfire, picnic dinners, nature walk,
marshmallows and s’mores (a Cub Scout requisite, see
photo)
and even a little singing and story-telling around the campfire.
(Funny, somehow all the stories had disco-dancing cockroaches and
mutant alien forces….) We also added the ashes of past campfires to
our campfire, a Scouting tradition going way, way back. After singing
“Taps” we all headed off to our cozy, warm (yes, warm!) tents for a
good night’s rest. In the morning, after a yummy breakfast of bagels,
cream cheese, OJ, fruit (and for the grown-ups, much enjoyed COFFEE!)
we struck camp, cleaned up completely (we camp by the “Leave No Trace”
rules!) and had a flag ceremony. One of our Wolf Cub Scouts led us in
a stirring rendition of “We Are the Champions” and we sure did feel
like champions! We did a practice flag-folding, took a group
photo,
and headed off to home. We think even the Yankees, (better luck next
year guys!) would say 1-2-3-BULLY! to the Cubs Scouts, parents,
and families of Pack 183 for an outstanding Fall Campout
A Visit With New York’s Bravest!
Dateline: Friday, October 17, 2003. Pack
183’s back out in the field again – and this time we were the guests
of the New York City Fire Department! Ladder Company 164/Engine
Company 313, located on 244th Street in Douglaston, had us
in for a tour of their firehouse. What a thrill! After we lined up
inside (see
our photo) they backed in one of the big pumper trucks (betcha
didn’t know that these trucks carry a HUGE amount of water that can be
used even before they’re hooked up to a hydrant!) and the Cubs got to
climb inside the cab and the back of the truck. The firefighters told
us more about fire safety –for example, if your clothes catch on fire
and you “stop, drop and roll” it’s very important to cover your face
too. Once again, don’t forget to check those batteries in your smoke
detectors! We had more fun watching a demonstration of how the
firefighters slide down the pole to get from the top floor down to the
fire trucks. (We know a few Scouts who would love to have one of
those poles in their house! Bet they’d never be late for dinner
again!) After a great big 1-2-3-BULLY! for the firefighters, we
stepped outside for juice, courtesy of Den Leader Mrs. Guapisaca, who
also had arranged the trip. We think the Firefighters of Ladder
Company 164/Engine Company 313 are so terrific, they deserve another
1-2-3-BULLY! Thanks for having us over to visit!
Pack 183 Learns the “Tools” of Fire Safety at
Home Depot!
Dateline – October 4, 2003: It’s Saturday
morning, around 11:00 AM. Pull up to the parking lot of the Home
Depot in Flushing, and what do you see? Yes, it’s the eager Cub
Scouts, siblings, parents, and friends of Cub Scout Pack 183 – all
here to learn about fire safety and to build neat projects, courtesy
of the Home Depot and New York City Fire Department Ladder Company
129.
Our Scouts suited up in orange Home Depot aprons,
fire helmets and safety glasses, and got to work (with a little adult
help, of course!) hammering and gluing their projects. Then, what did
we see pulling into the parking lot? It was a gleaming red ladder
truck complete with a contingent of New York’s Bravest, firefighters
from Ladder Company 129! Turns out one of the Home Depot managers is
also a firefighter, and he arranged for a special presentation for our
Scouts!
You should have seen the looks on our faces when
the firefighters demonstrated how they fight fires – they raised up
the huge ladder and with no fear, went right up to the roof of the
Home Depot! Very impressive! They showed us the equipment they use,
and talked to the boys about fire safety (like “stop, drop and roll”
if your clothing catches on fire). They reminded us all to check the
batteries in our smoke detectors regularly – a good way to remember
this is to check twice a year, when you change the clocks in Fall and
Spring.
We got a chance to pose with the fire truck (see
our photo). Then, duty called, and the firefighters had to leave to
fight a fire! We waved good-bye and thanked them with a 1-2-3 BULLY!
for New York’s Bravest and the Home Depot! And another 1-2-3-BULLY!
for Tiger Cub Den Leader Mrs. Guapisaca, for arranging this trip!
Pack 183 Takes to the
Air!
Dateline August 15, 2003: Or, at least, a few members of Pack 183 were
airborne on this trip! Pack 183 made a return visit to the Old
Rhinebeck Aerodrome to partake of the wonders from the “golden days”
of aviation history. Elliot R, David G., and Daniel N., along with
183 alum Randy S., parents, siblings and friends had a splendid day
exploring the exhibits – we even saw the replica of Charles
Lindbergh’s “Spirit of St. Louis” being constructed right at the
airfield shop! Did you know that “The Lone Eagle” flew from New York
to Paris completely without radio contact? Lindbergh had to do it by
“dead reckoning” – whew! After strolling about the extensive exhibits
of planes, antique cars and other machinery, we settled in for the air
show – and what a treat! Seeing the fragility of those old planes
really made you understand how brave the early aviation pioneers
were. (Not to mention Teddy Roosevelt, the first president to brave a
trip in an airplane!) We cheered every time they landed safely – no
easy feat with these sensitive old machines. Of course, the day
wouldn’t be complete without some brave Scout trying a plane ride –
Elliot and his mom took a flight in the old “barnstormer” biplane.
David G. and his mom were signed up for a biplane ride too, but an
impending thunderstorm rained them out. A great big Pack 183 “BULLY!”
for the aviators and crew at the Old Rhinebeck Aerodrome – it’s
awesome!
Oh, a Camping We Did Go!
July 11-13, 2003:
Pack 183 had an outstanding time this year at Camp Wauwepex, Schiff Scout
Reservation, in Wading River, Long Island. We attended the annual
“Cub-Parent” weekend, a great introduction to camping that’s put together
by the volunteers of the Shelter Rock District. This year we camped in the
lean-tos of the “Santa Fe” campsite – and 28 Cub Scouts and their parents
from Pack 183 attended! Including our newest additions, Tiger Cub Luke P.
and his Dad! We may be one of the smaller packs in the district, but we
were one of the larger groups at the camping weekend! A great big “BULLY!”
for us!
We arrived Friday night and set up our campsite – had a great campfire
with hot dogs, marshmallows, and, of course, s’mores. (mmmm, good!) Off to
bed for us all after a round of campfire stories, then up the next morning
for flag-raising and breakfast in the dining hall. Then, on to the
activities of the day! Archery, fishing, arts & crafts, nature, obstacle
course and a tug-o-war and water-fight (parents vs. Cubs) swimming, dinner
in the dining hall, and then a campfire!
At Saturday night’s campfire we did our skit, “Presidential Quiz” in front
of the whole camp, which was a big hit. Then, one of our pack’s leaders,
Mr. Boccio, lead the camp in an American flag retirement ceremony. placing
on the campfire a flag that had belonged to his family As we all stood and
saluted, we were brought together in fellowship for this very meaningful
and touching tribute. After singing “Scout Vespers, we silently left the
embers of the campfire behind.
But the evening was not over – a treat awaited us in the dining hall – ice
cream sundaes for all. A wonderful finish for a great day!Sun-fun-swimming-fishing-campfires-archery- friends: they all add up to a
BULLY! of a great time for the Pack 183 Cub Scouts and their parents!
NIGHT HIKE NEWS……..
Dateline, Friday, May 17th,
2003…..Who on earth would be out on a drizzly
Friday night hiking through Alley Pond Park? Why, the stalwart Cub Scouts
(and friends and families) of Pack 183, that’s who! A little rain wasn’t
gonna stop us from exploring the old Long Island Motor Parkway, now part
of the Greenbelt Trail system! We started off as the sun was setting,
took one “false” turn towards the road (awww, we do that every year – next
year we’ll fool the new guys!) and we were off!
Wow, you should have been there. Our
Tiger Cubs, Andrew, Jason, Tim and the straight walkin’ determined David
headed right out confidently. Along with them were our Wolfs Elliot and
Micky, who seemed to be up at the front the whole way! Bears Andrew and
Daniel were joined by another Daniel, who we’re hoping will be a Cub Scout
with us real soon! (Welcome to the best pack on the face of the planet,
Daniel!). Our “big guys”, Webelos Jesse, JB and Matthew were right
alongside, and a special guest appearance was made by none other than
former Cub Scout and now Boy Scout Michael, brother of Bear Scout Andrew!
(Welcome back Michael –thanks for coming along!)
The sun set, and as our flashlights
were reflected off the trees it was easy to imagine the ghosts of William
Vanderbilt and his friends racing along this former parkway – Mr. V. built
this road, now a trail, to have a place to race his beloved “motorcars”,
as they were called back in the early 1900s. Now this trail in Alley Pond
Park is one of the last preserved parts of the roadway that used to
stretch from Queens to Montauk.
Of course, parents and siblings came
along for the hike, and after 2 miles we were sure glad to see Mrs. Frees.
with snacks and drinks at the half-way point! A big “Bully!” for Mrs.
Frees!
On the 2 miles back we all took note
of the brass turtle on the big rock (you’ll have to try this hike for
yourself to find it – we ain’t telling where it is!) That was about it
for any “wildlife” on this trip. Happy (and perhaps just a bit tired) we
made it back to the parking lot around 9:30 PM. And a big “Bully” to us
all – we did it!
Pack
183 Cleans Up!
It was a rainy, gloomy
Saturday morning this past April 12, 2003. You’d expect most kids and
their parents to be snug inside their homes, far away from the damp,
drizzle and mud.
Well, not the stalwarts from Pack 183! Twenty-seven dedicated Cub Scouts
and their parents from Little Neck, Douglaston and Great Neck, along with
former Cub Scouts and friends, joined other community groups and residents
for the annual Udalls Cove Preservation Committee clean-up, despite some
seriously soggy and cold weather.
We heard some inspirational speeches by assembled dignitaries, including
Udalls Cove Preservation Committee President Walter Mugdan, State Senator
Frank Padavan, City Councilman Tony Avella, and NY City Parks Commissioner
Adrien Benape. We all gave a resounding cheer for Pack 183 Alum and now
Boy Scout Daniel B., who was presented with an award for his project on
ospreys.
After the ceremonies, on to work! We headed over to the wetlands area
near the Douglaston Train Station and PS 98 and squished down a muddy
path to the waterfront.
Our roaring Tiger Cubs, Andrew, David, and Jason (along with siblings Emma
and Amada) scoured the area, picking up empty bottles (mostly plastic) and
a lot of bottle caps. Howlin’ Wolf Cub Elliot R., equipped with his
trusty “trash stabber” (a ski pole) unearthed plenty of soggy newspaper.
Growling Bear Cubs Andrew J. and (from Pack 153) Nick S. discovered wood
planks and lots more wet garbage. Trusty Webelos Jesse, Franklin, and J.B.,
along with sibling Samantha, found lots of flotsam and jetsam. Pack 183
Alums and now Boy Scouts Randy and Daniel, along with friend Zak, made
some amazing finds of large pieces of plastic and wood. And let us not
forget to mention all the dedicated parents who came along and did their
share!
We also found quite a few large horseshoe crab shells – evidence that the
work that’s been done over the years to preserve this beautiful area is
paying off!
And….just in time for a group photo, around 11:30 the sun came out! We
slogged back for a yummy picnic lunch provided by the Udalls Cove
Preservation Committee. (Hot chocolate sure tastes good when you’re soggy
from picking up trash in the rain!)
So, what do you think Theodore Roosevelt would say about a bunch of Cub
Scouts, who along with siblings and parents, spent a half-day in the rain,
getting soaked to their skins and muddy all over, working to preserve some
of the most beautiful wetlands in New York City?
Why, we think he’d give them all a great big
BULLY!!!!
Smoke,
Style
+
Sportsmanship
Westbury, L.I. March 9, 2003
Every year around this time, an annual rite for Cub
Scouts takes place along the North Shore of Long Island. This time-honored
event is the Shelter Rock District Pinewood Derby Grand Prix Invitational.
Only the fastest and coolest cars from Little Neck to Oyster Bay are
allowed into the Mall at the Source on this winter Sunday for the Derby’s
final showdown.
That’s how it is. Only the best are invited to come. But
everyone is allowed to have fun. By noon
the races had finally begun. Our Webelos team-the Dragons-raced
first: Jesse, Franklin and Jordan. Jesse was holding our home track’s
fastest recorded run, 2.6110. Franklin and Jordan were close behind.
This was a different day, a different race, a different place. We held our
breath!
Jesse and Jordan had hung in to the Webe’s final heat. When the smoke
slowly cleared…it revealed…that they had finished 2nd and 3rd in their
division’s big race!!! But wait, our Webes weren’t through collecting
awards quite yet. 3rd Place—Most Original—goes to our Dragon, Matt, and
his Dragon Drag Racer!
Three Webe trophies for the 183s!
Next to the line were the Bears. We sent only one challenger this year.
One Bear—car # 24 in the middle of the pack —a raw rookie, against every
hot Bear in all of Shelter Rock. No problem. You only need one car to win!
Ladies and gentle-men, the fastest Bear Cub from Glen Cove to
Garden City, from Oyster Bay to Little Neck, NY is the 183’s Andrew J.!
That’s a fact!
For some mysterious reason the 183’s Wolfs never make it to the final
heats, but Micky and Elliot did give it their best try. Suddenly something
near the trophy table caught my eye. The District Design Committee had
accepted David D. to compete and thought his car was really neat. There he
was, all smiles, standing so tall! Best Design—Wolfs—2nd place!
Our Tigers came growling to meet the challenge next. But, for a spot in
the limelight they’ll need another chance. So…we’ll groom these Tigers on
the Glenwood track. We’ll kick their tires and we’ll send ‘em all back.
They’ll be killer next time. Let’s promise them that!
You guys all Did Your Best. You competed with real Cub Spirit.
That’s why the 183s are the best.
Bully!
Really Radical Rides Rattle Raceway
Little Neck, NY, February 28, 2003
You could sense it by the low rumble of
the crowd gathering on Glenwood Street last Friday night that something
hot was about to happen. And it didn’t take long, around quarter after
eight two race cars roared wide open through this neighborhood of neat
homes on the Queens/Nassau border…and a night of wild street racing was
upon us.
Well, no kiddin’! Here come the 183’s!!!
The Pack… Was back… At the Track.
And you just couldn’t keep those boys quiet! Just what went down at the
edge of town? Pinewood jockeys from Oyster Bay to Mineola from Garden City
to Sea Cliff want to know. But they’ll have to find out next Sunday at
Westbury. Let’s keep this under wraps—except, Let’s face it, the “Dragin’”
Patrol raced like lubed lightning. Jesse now holds the fastest recorded
time on the Glenwood Track, with Franklin less than six one hundredths of
a second behind! Boys, check with Eddie of the Soaring Eagles to see how
long you may have to stay at the big race on Sunday. His old record was
between yours!
Less than a tenth of a second off the pace was Andrew in the Bear Den and
our fourth fastest car was our Tiger Den leader, David.
Micky and Elliot also had very respectable times as well and will, as
Wolfs, face a ton of other competition at the District Grand Prix. Also, a
very cool green hotrod from the Glenwood Garage should catch some
limelight in the Best Design corner along with Dragin’ Matt’s Dragon Drag
Racer in Most Original.
Best of success to everyone. We all had fun. Y’all done good.
Lube those wheels!
And
Let’s Roll!
183's Take Ten Mile Hill
Bull's Bridge, CT
June 1, 2002 (National Trails Day)
Ten members and friends of the Pack (plus two) picked one of the nicest
days this season and went for a little walk in the woods.
Just south of Bull's Bridge Road in western Connecticut you'll find a
section of the Appalachian Trail hugging the cliffs right above the
Housatonic River. The river was running high and swift on this morning,
after the previous night's heavy rain.
The 183's headed in on the Trail for a look-see. Shortly after entering
the Trail we met a Ridgerunner, Paula Burton, who explained how
volunteers, such as herself, help to maintain the AT-clearing it of fallen
trees and inspecting for storm damage. She wished us a good hike and said
she'd probably meet us again that day.
We hiked along, led during part of this time by our new Cub, Micky,
crossed a small brook on a log bridge, passed under hissing high tension
wires and soon found ourselves arching out over a rushing Ten Mile River
on the Ned Anderson Memorial Footbridge. Mr. Anderson had
helped to design, build and maintain the original Trail through CT. Along
with the help of the Boy Scouts!
A brief distance up the south bank of Ten Mile River and then down a short
side trial is Ten Mile Lean-to a great place to stop for lunch. And an
excellent place to find Paula. This was her bivouac for the weekend!
After eating lunch we took a few pictures and set off to tackle Ten Mile
Hill.
That's when we first noticed them!
Just past the edge of the clearing!
Like they knew where to find us!
How long had they been following the Pack?
75 miles from Douglaston Manor?
Ian and his Dad!!!
Well.
Bully!
So, we gained two more hikers. Ian skillfully led us up the hard part of
Ten Mile Hill, where the Pack rested upon reaching the summit (1,000
feet). Woo, hold on to your hats! A stiff summer breeze buffeted the top
of the Hill. Mr. B. told us a great personal hiking story about his
adventures in Nepal, we learned a little about the geology of the Hill,
the binoculars came out, the cameras clicked, snacks were passed around
and a cool wind blew through our hair.
National Trails Day, 2002-perfect!
On our return from Ten Mile Hill, we ran into Paula again. Danny B, Ian
and Randy helped her clear a fir tree that had fallen across the path.
When we arrived back at the footbridge the Pack stopped to goof-off and
invest some time tossing rocks into the river. Just to make a splash. Was
this Matt's favorite part of the hike?
Around 3:30 P.M. the 183's reluctantly left the riverbank and trekked back
to the trailhead.
Hey, the Pack had a wonderful day in the woods.
Last Monday we had marched down the middle of Northern Boulevard.
And Saturday, the middle of nowhere.
Why?
'Cause we're Pack 183!
Bully!
Memorial Day
May 27, 2002
Pack 183 looked sharp, stood tall and honored our heroes by
marching in the 75th annual Little Neck/Douglaston Memorial Day
Parade. Led by Harris, Patrick and Danny B, the Pack hoisted: our colors,
the NY state flag, Old Glory and several historical national flags
including "Don't Tread on Me," (the Gadsden Flag). The adult
members followed directly behind he boys displaying, in horizontal
position, a memorial American flag from the FDNY. This sacred, worn and
frayed, banner had been displayed far too often this year. and certainly
deserved an honorary trip of its own down Northern Boulevard on a
beautiful spring day.
Additionally, several of the 183's were requested to carry the Third
Division Parade Commander's Banner, in honor of Mr. Greenberg from Troop
183.
Two Pack members marched with their school-appropriately
enough, since Mr. Arnold built the school's float!
And one Webelos, Eddie, marched in full uniform but separate from the
Pack. He was being singularly honored for winning the Theme Award
("United We Stand") in the 2002 Memorial Day Art Competition!!
Well, well, well, the 183's from Shelter Rock-you just couldn't keep those
boys from commandeering the nation's largest parade.
On a special Memorial Day. In a special parade.
During a special time.
We "Did Our Best!"
Let's always remember this.
Never Forget!
BULLY!
Udall's Cove
Saturday April 20, 2002
Chilly, damp and overcast-with a threat of rain.
What would you expect to find on such a Saturday morning along Sandhill
Road between Douglaston and Little Neck?
Maybe seventy-five of your neighbors, armed with shovels and rakes,
listening to environmental speeches by N.Y. State Senator Padavan and the
Udall's Cove Committee leadership?
Exactly!
The group included four members of our Pack; Danny B., Matt, Harris and
Elliot, whose picture, shovel-in-hand, graced the cover of the Little Neck
Ledger. Our crew also included three leaders (Ms. Farber, Mr. B. and Mr. Seegert) and two Pack graduates (Randy and
Colin) plus Mr. Keller who took time from their busy Saturdays to
volunteer for the 33rd annual Udall's Cove Cleanup.
The 183's were the only Scouting unit represented!
Senator Padavan finished-up and ended with a quote from T.R!
Now we're talkin'! And the cleanup commenced.
The 183's, with the help of a few of our neighbors, were on a roll working
a small patch of the Wetlands between Aurora Pond and Gabler's Creek. This
site yielded an entire truckload of "stuff"-shipping skids to computer components. Along with enough
bottles, cans and newspapers to stock a small deli!
Our treasure trove also included: bricks, concrete, pipe, wire and a
"ton" of lumber. Giving proof that this cleanup is never done.
as apparently, contractors are dumping in the protected areas!
A huge tire was also removed from the area we were working and will no
longer serve as an eternal incubator for mosquitoes!
We finished up our morning with some good old playtime at Memorial Field
along with a scrumptious lunch, provided by the Udall's Cove Preservation
Committee.
So, what do you think we have to say to all of our community's
service project volunteers?
Well, I think it's obvious.
1,2,3, Bully!
Sap Seekers Search Sanctuary
Sunday March 24, 2002, Oyster Bay, L.I.
Nineteen members of Tribe 183 traveled back in time once again, last
Sunday morning. Our journey took us to the Theodore Roosevelt Audubon
Sanctuary in Oyster Bay, the nation's first Audubon preserve.
Soon after arriving, the Little Neck Nation gathered around the campfire
ring with fellow Scouts from the 168 (Syosset) Tribe to learn how Native
Americans discovered and first used maple syrup. Then we took a hike
through the woods on a beautiful sunny morning, in search of maple trees. We learned how to identify maples (and
poison ivy, too) in the winter, without any leaves! Let's please remember
these skills.
Returning back to the campfire ring, we saw how sumac twigs could be
carved to use as taps for maple trees; learned how much sap was needed to
make just a little syrup; cooked our own cornmeal on a hot rock over the
campfire and then gobbled down the fresh "journey cakes," dripping with sweet, sticky,
syrup.
YUM! Of course, we couldn't settle down to eat Native American style without
first sprucing up by painting ourselves with a little red mud, you know,
to help look authentic. And 'cause it's fun!
And finally, what's needed for any trip to Oyster Bay to be a real
success?
How about a couple good loud "Bullys" at the foot of Theodore
Roosevelt's grave-to honor him for all that he means to us Scouts!
What would the 26th President, a man who would interrupt meetings to play
with his children, have thought about all this youthful enthusiasm? Would
his spirit shine upon spruced-up Scouts seeking sweet, sticky, syrup on a
sunny Sunday in his Sanctuary? Or. Would he just want to shout,
BULLY!
Glenwood Gang Grabs Gold!
Two Silvers & One Bronze, Pack Continues to Roll
Westbury, NY, March 10, 2002
Eleven members of the Pack 183 Racing Team rolled out of the Glenwood
Street Garage this weekend, destined for the Shelter Rock District Grand
Championship Pinewood Derby Finals.
After weeks of working on their cars, after hot eliminations on the
Glenwood track, the 183's sent their best to the ultimate test! The
fastest and coolest looking cars in the whole District- the 300 winners
from the thousands of carefully crafted cars and dozens of races held this
winter -were jockeying for position. Three hundred against eleven. Just the way we like it!
The first group to race was our Webelos. You last saw their sleek machines
at the Glenwood track in February. They featured two previous 4th place
District Champions (Danny B. & Danny P.) plus Eddie and his very hot
new entry. But this would be a different day, a different race. A different test.
We told all the boys, just, "Do Your Best!"
And under the lights, awaiting the judges, on the Most Original and Best
Design competition tables -two awesome rides representing our Team were
sitting pretty-Kevin's classic White Coyote and Patrick's Big Cheese.
The cars rolled-the judges judged- the dust cleared. The results came in.
Third place for the Webes' in all of Shelter Rock this year. Mr. Danny B.!
And the fastest Webe from Little Neck to Oyster Bay. Mr. Eddie H.!
And wait, that's not all. Kevin's White Coyote sat in Best Design-2nd
place and Patrick's Big Cheese fourth-Special Mention-for Most Original!
The Bears were next. Ian, Jesse and Matt were looking good, staying close
but in the final heats the tires blew, the engines broke! What's this?
Standing tall in the Bears' winner's circle, peering out through the
smoke, stood J.B. with his Hershey ride, Most
Original-2nd Place!
The Wolfs rode next, a hot young rookie named Keith and our legend,
Daniel, District Champ.
It was a different day. And a different test.
And our Wolf Team kinda ran outta gas, right before the final race.
But they, "Did Their Best!" Team 183, we aced this test!
One Gold. Two Silver. One Bronze. And a 4th Place.
Thanks to everyone who helped make the Derbies a success once again!
We're Team 183.
And we're hot!
Don't forget!
Bully!
Rookies Rock Raceway in Wild Ride!
Friday, 02/22/02
From the very first clatter of plastic wheels rolling down the chute, it
was clear that new champions were being created at the Pack's 2002
Pinewood Derby. In front of family, friends and a legacy of Scout leaders, first-time
winners smoked across the finish line-smoked-destined to represent Team 183 in
the District Championships this year.
1st Place Wolfs-Keith
1st Place Bears-Ian
1st Place Webelos-Eddie
Very Hot cars by veteran award winners and rookies alike will also
represent the Pack in the design and originality show competitions.
And-Look Out!
Blowin' 'em all outta their seats, goin' for the gold, with the fastest
single run on record for our track at 2.6621 seconds.is our Webelos, Eddie.
We wish all the boys, "Best of Luck," as twelve Team 183 members
head off to the District Finals in Westbury, L.I. on Sunday, March 10th.
Let's Roll!
Bully!
The Klondike
January 26, 2002
The 183's two senior Webelos, James and Randy, teamed up with five boys
from Garden City's Pack 7 to form a super patrol-the Lightning
Eagles.
Their goal: challenge the other Webelos units in the District at the 2002
Klondike Derby.
Power Packs from Sea Cliff to Manhasset, Oyster Bay to Floral Park,
arrived with their sleds at the Muttontown Preserve in eastern Nassau
County early Saturday morning.
They came to test their skills and demonstrate their ability to work all
day as independent teams, with a minimum of adult supervision-providing the
Webe 2's with their first real step into Boy Scouting.
The sparkling shards of early morning ice along the puddles in the trails
of the Preserve melted quickly, under an unusually warm sun, and turned the course into a
damp and sometimes muddy quagmire. The winter gear came off, the cold
drinks came out and "the gloves came off." The race was on!
The boys were challenged to follow a map for several miles through the
Preserve, pulling a sled full of equipment and stopping at ten sites (towns)along
the course, where they had to demonstrate their ability to solve problems
from potentially deadly accidents to games of pure skill and teamwork. The goal was to
collect as many points for each activity as possible and complete the
entire course making it to the last town in four hours or less (by 2
P.M.). With a minimal amount of help.
No problem. Many of the adults along the trail seemed totally bewildered!
At 2 P.M., maybe a minute to spare, a wild, noisy, fired-up patrol, the
Lightning Eagles, arrived at their last destination. Twenty minutes later
they flashed across the finish line with "a ton" of gold nugget
bounty and enough extra credit points to earn third place in the District Derby!
As they waited well over an hour for the stragglers to come in and the
closing ceremony to begin, the Lightning Eagles challenged any Webelos and Boy Scouts,
still on their feet, to a pick-up football game in the Preserve's
equestrian ring.
Later that night, our Pack's heroes were treated to a victory celebration
viewing of Snow Dogs!
We're the Lightning Eagles of Shelter Rock!
Bully!
Webelos'
Night
December 21, 2001
Thump—Thump—Thump…
A solemn mythical figure, in Native American attire, slowly beats
upon a drum—signaling the arrival of the Matincock Chapter of the Order
of the Arrow to Pack 183’s Webelos’ Night.
The last meeting of 2001 capped-off a
truly momentous year for the Pack!
And the Matincock’s Ceremonial
Team stopped by to join us in honoring the achievements of seven of our
senior Cub Scouts. Six boys: Danny B, Eddie, Patrick, Justin, Danny
P and Kevin, were awarded Cub Scouting’s top
rank—Webelos.
And one Scout, Randy in his second year as a Webelos, was pre-sented
with the prestigious Arrow of Light award—Cub Scouting’s ultimate
recognition of achievement. During a very dramatic presentation, featuring
music, smoke and fire, the Ceremonial Team not only honored the boys for
their accomplishments but also advised them of their newly acquired
responsibilities. Following the ceremony, the Pack let all the
stops out for a super-charged 3-in-1 celebration—Webelos’ Night, Danny
B.’s birthday and our holiday year-ender! And with good reason! 2001 was
an extraordinary year for Pack
183. We, Did Our Best…and we became
the best! The Best Pack on the Planet? …Well, of course!
A congratulatory BULLY
for all!
Let us be thankful for our good fortune. And hope for peace.
We’re Pack 183!
Chatterton's
Hill, 1776
Sunday, October 28, 2001
The blast of 18th century cannon rolled across the vast open field
echoing
throughout the surrounding hills. A mounted officer rode the line,
commanding dozens of soldiers to return fire in unison. A very long row of
men in red coats could be seen through the smoky haze, steadily
marching towards us, crossing over the bridge in the valley far below.
The 183 Little Neck Little Volunteers, commanded by Cubmaster Seeg
and his veteran Akela's, had traveled back in time, 225 years to the day,
to
Chatterton's Hill. The 183's-including a large auxiliary continent of
supportive family members-joined the Patriots' cause and cheered the 2,000
re-enactors through the Battle of White Plains.
Taking place, this time, at Ward's Pound Ridge Reservation in Westchester
County.
On a very sunny and clear late October afternoon in 2001, the 183's
took
their position on the Americans' weak right flank near the crest of the
hill.
What a spot! As close to the firing line, galloping horses, charging
troops
and roaring cannon as practically possible. We also were within clear
listening distance of the PA and Mr. George Neumann's running narration.
The battle originally pitted 1,600 American's against an overwhelming
attacking force of 14,000 of General Howe's crack British troops.
The Patriots,' just two weeks after the fall of NYC, fought a gallant and
orderly retreat across the Bronx River, over Chatterton's Hill and back to
White Plains, inflicting more casualties upon the British than they
inflicted
upon them! And once again, after a good fight, it ended the same way.
Prior to the battle, the 183's had been invited to explore the Patriots'
campsite to learn how they ate, slept, dressed, cheered and took care of their
weapons-exactly like soldiers did 225 years ago. And we taught them
what a reallygood Bully sounds like!
Hey, they earned it!
We want to thank Mark Hurwitz (3rd, NJ) for both encouraging us and
inviting us to attend the event. And how about the willingness of the
numerous members of The Brigade of the American Revolution to answer questions,
pose for pictures and explain in detail every inquiry by the Pack? By both
young and old!
Let's hear it loud!
1, 2, 3, Bully! Or, as we'd say in 1776.Hip, Hip, Huzzah!
Pack 183 Webelo's Fall Hike
October 14, 2001-Rand's View, CT.
Five Webelos and six parents said good-by to the city for a day, sneaked
into the woods and went looking for adventure along the Appalachian Trail.
Our return to the primeval past sent the 183's just southeast of
Salisbury, CT on a mild but overcast Sunday. Our crew, all veteran hikers of the Trail, traveled over six miles in a
round trip to Rand's View-considered by many to be the best view in Connecticut
on the Appalachian Trail.
The vista faces north looking across large sweeping meadows to the
highest mountains in CT and MA. As all Webelos in Pack 183 know,
these are the Taconic Mountains-original mountains from the event
that
formed what we now refer to as the Appalachian Chain-the
oldest mountains on the planet. Sections of the Taconics have drifted
and
can now be found as far away as Argentina and Antarctica!
Or a 100 miles north of Little Neck, covered in peak fall colors and
blanketed with mist. Our return, through the dense old growth forest along the glacially flattened top of Barrack Matiff, concluded with a descent
of some 500 feet to U.S. 44 and took about two hours.
All the Webes had a chance to blaze the lightly leaf-covered trail for
a
mile or more during the Pack's nearly five and a half-hour walk in the
woods.
We all Did Our Best!
We're Pack 183.
Bully!
Old Rhinebeck Rocks!
Sunday August 5, 2001
Pack 183's summer picnic, a.k.a. The Mystery Trip-because its destination
was a surprise-took off at the Old Rhinebeck Aerodrome in northern Dutchess
County. After arriving at 11:00, the Pack held an awards ceremony, ate a picnic
lunch under a huge tent and spent time exploring the extraordinary
collection of ancient planes in the hangers and museum buildings before
the afternoon air show.
Patrick's Mom and Danny & Matt's Mom both donned various period
costumes for the pre-show "runway" event. Charming and
Courageous!
Then it was WWI, time for the roar of the engines and the aroma of burnt
castor oil to fill the old farm that serves as the aerodrome's authentic
backdrop for an air show that can only be labeled as, "Unique!"
Stunts, dogfights, Dorsey Divers, a parachutist and the realization that
this stuff still flies, makes for a truly wondrous time!
Plenty of shenanigans take place on the grass strip while the planes are
prepped (nursed?) to fly, entertaining both the young and old alike. Our thanks to the
Farmer, the Evil Black Baron, Percy Goodfellow, Trudy Truelove and all the
others who made our day so much fun! Being blown up by a bomb while using
an outhouse, is a skit any Cub could love.
So, how about a little jaunt in an open cockpit, 1929, New Standard D-25
biplane?
AWESOME!
Eight Fearless Members of the Pack went up, over the course of the
afternoon, for the airplane rides of their lives. And all returned to talk
about it!
And talk about it!
And talk about it!
After touching down from a little spin over the Hudson Valley a Dad with
his Cub proclaimed, "I'm going to trade in our boat and get a
plane!"
And as our first President to fly in an aeroplane would have said.
Bully!
You missed a really nice weekend in the woods!
Weekend 2001, A Space Odyssey. 7/13 - 7/15
The best pack on the planet sent 20 members to Schiff Scout Reservation in
Wading River, L.I. for some fun in our solar system's sun. Shelter Rock
District's annual summer Cub Scout campout featured the most pleasant
weekend weather this season in the whole universe. We had set firm goals
and requirements for the event this year. And wemet every one: o Excellent Weather o Fine Fishing o Cool Crafts o
Awesome Archery o Fun & Games o Tremendous Thespians o Gourmet Dinning
o Lots of Marshmallows o And an Ice Cream Party! Along with a cool dip in the lake! We suffered no serious casualties.
And we had no rain. The 183's Did Their Best by: participating in the flag raising ceremony
both mornings, giving a stellar performance at the Stone Campfire Ring and
being really great voyagers (campers). We also initiated two new Bobcats
(Daniel S. and Keith) into the Pack at the close of our Friday night
campfire. We wish them the best of success in their Cub Scouting careers!
We're Pack 183!
Bully!
Mt. Taurus Hike
(Or, Rabbits Over the River)
Hudson Highlands State Park-Cold Spring, NY June 10, 2001
The 183's took advantage of the spectacular late-spring weather to do a little hiking (mountaineering?) up Mt. Taurus just north of Cold Spring, NY along the Hudson River. We entered the trail at 11 A.M. and climbed for two hours before stopping for lunch at about 1,100 feet on an outcropping overlooking the River directly below. The Cubs spent most of their break-time identifying images in the clouds (both rabbits and dogs are still very popular). Continuing on our climb after lunch, the trail offered several spectacular views up and down the Hudson valley, including an amazingly clear view to the south that included what appeared to be the tops of the World Trade Center-about 60 miles away!
Standing on top of the world, we shouted our loudest "Bully" ever! Wow!
At 1,400 feet, we felt we had truly paid our dues for our views! And they had been delivered.
The three-mile descent down the mountain's
gradual side was challenging as well, due to loose footing in spots, but was pleasantly tree shaded and, of course, downhill!
The tired and dusty 183's emerged from the woods at 4:00 P.M. returning to Little Neck to resume their flatland ways.
Bully!
It Will Not Rain on Our Parade!
(Monday 5/28/2001)
No way!
The Pack and several members of Troop 183 marched (that's right,
marched) down the middle of Northern Blvd., flags whipping in the breeze,
to honor our vets on what became a beautiful spring afternoon in Little
Neck. No longer referred to as the state's largest Memorial Day parade, our
community-wide event is now the largest in the USA! But somehow, it still feels like a small-town parade. just, bigger.
A couple hours of drill morphed the 183's-a once rowdy band of irregulars-into a well disciplined, lean, mean, marchin' machine.
Well a kinda cool one, anyway.
"Thanks," to everyone who helped train the boys and a big,
"bully," to Mr. Panaro, who purchased three flags and rigged them onto lighter poles,
allowing all 13 of our participating Cubs a chance to carry a banner
during the course of the parade.
And ultimately, a sincere, heartfelt, "Thank-you," to all of our
veterans!
One, two, three. Bully!
Webelos Woods 2001 (5/11 - 5/13)
The 183's sent eight boys and eight parents to the Theodore Roosevelt Council's Schiff Scout Reservation in Wading River, NY to
participate in our Council's annual camporee for Webelos Scouts. We pitched our
own tents, cooked our own food and even washed our own dishes!! The goal of "the woods" was to help older Cub Scouts learn the
skills they need to Be Prepared for Boy Scouting-and to have fun!
Saturday morning was filled with requirement orientated instruction like first-aid, nature studies and camping skills. After lunch the boys played games of skill and daring, including "beating" their parents in the notorious wet sponge
battle!
The evening was capped by our performance of the skit
"Soup" in front of the District campfire. But most importantly for any Cub, we roasted marshmallows over a real campfire two nights in a row!
All seven of our first-year Webelos passed their Outdoorsman achievement requirements, and made progress in other achievement areas also.
And we all Did Our Best!
We're Pack 183.
Bully!
Saturday 04/28/01
Attention All Scouts!
Walk!
Scout Walk 2001 was a chance for hundreds of Scouting families throughout Nassau County to participate in the Theodore Roosevelt Council’s annual
spring fundraiser in Eisenhower Park.
And what a day for a walk in the park!
Led by pipes and drums…the walkers followed a 5K course through the
Park on a very pleasant spring morning. Upon finishing the course, a day
of fun, food and friendship followed.
The 183’s spent their leisure time trout-fishing, dart throwing, climbing
across a rope bridge, attending fire safety demonstrations and making
new buddies.
All this while helping both our Council and the Pack.
A big BULLY to our Cubs and their sponsors!
Sunday March 11, 2001
Pack 183 Rules!
We warned the other Packs last year. Did they
listen? No!
Did we take advantage? Yes!
Did we eat them up and spit them out our exhausts, like promised? Absolutely-positively!
From Oyster Bay to Little Neck from Sands Point to Garden City,
Pack 183 blew them away:
First Place in the Webelos category—Randy!!
First Place in the Bears—Richard!!
First Place in the Tigers—Daniel!!
Fourth Place in the Bears—Danny B!!
And the District's Grand Prix Champion, the absolutely-positively fastest
car in the land was—our Tiger Cub rookie—Daniel!
Out of the hundreds and hundreds of boys who raced in the Pinewood Derbies
In Shelter Rock District…Pack 183 had the fastest three cars!
The Fastest!
Hey, and Kevin won second place in Best Design for the Bears!
Well, as Teddy would say, "You boys done real good!"
Bully!
Rookies Rock Racetrack!
February 23, 2001
Little Neck, NY
The Pack held its annual Pinewood Derby model car race at Drag Strip 183 on Glenwood Street, Friday night. While the fastest car
on the track Friday belonged to the Pack’s reigning champion, Randy, first-timers screamed through the other categories:
1st Place, Tigers—Daniel.
1st Place, Wolfs—J.B.
1st Place, Bears—Richard.
The Grand Prix, to decide the leader of the pack—Richard vs. Randy—
was decided by less than 4/1000 of a second. Well, son-of-a-gun… That’s
Racin’!
The First, Second and Third place winners, in each category, along with Most Original and Best Design, advance to the District Finals, Sunday
March 11, at the Source Mall in Westbury, L.I.
Three big Bullies to the Screamin’ Mean Pack 183 Racin’ Team!
And my personal thanks, once again, to the many parents and Scouts who helped make race night run…like a well-oiled machine.
Y’all done your best.
Jim-Bob Seegert
Race Master
L.I. Jamboree
10/27 – 10/29, 2000
Who let the Scouts out?
Who?
The Nassau and Suffolk county councils of the Boy Scouts of America—that’s
who! From Little Neck to Montauk, from the Five Towns to the North Fork, 10,000 weekend campers and more than 10,000 additional Saturday participants
filled Heckscher State Park on the Great South Bay in East Islip for the Greater Long Island Jamboree 2000.
The colorful 8:00 A.M. opening ceremony on Saturday featured one Scout from
each of the approximately 170 participating units parading with his unit’s
flag in front of 10,000 onlookers. And the opening was highlited by our Pack’s
own father/son team— the Panaros—playing their bugles in front of the entire
Long Island Scouting community to officially kick-off the Jamboree!
Skill demonstrations, advancement activities and a real sense of brotherhood
filled the day—which also featured a fly-over by the U.S. Air Force’s precision flight team,
the Thunderbirds. Saturday’s events came to a close with a rock concert by
the band Troop 47, followed by a spectacular fireworks show. The balmy autumn weather of Friday evening had turned by then into a bitter,
wind-driven, winter-like night, challenging us campers to keep warm…and to
keep our tents up!
The 19 day-trippers, two overnighters and honorary bugle corps that represented Pack 183 deserve three big Theodore Roosevelt Council bullies.
Bully!—Bully!—Bully!
Autumn Hike 2000
Sunday, October 15, 2000
The 183’s and ten of our Shelter Rock District friends from Pack 7 (Garden
City) sent 38 adventurers deep into the autumn woods on one of the mildest
mid-October days in memory.
The combined forces climbed the Appalachian Trail to the summit (1,329 Ft.) of Mt. Egbert in southern Dutchess county at the very peak of
the fall foliage season!
The extraordinary warm weather and brilliant blue sky made it difficult to
believe that it actually was autumn, despite the glowing colors of the forest.
All the boys, including several Tiger Cubs, completed the challenging
five-mile journey and all had an opportunity to blaze the trail—as it snaked
over the massive 1.1 billion-year-old hunk of ancient metamorphic rock. Our thanks to ALL the parents who, in the true spirit of Scouting, helped
make October 15th such a memorable day for both Packs!
Bully!
Battleship Cove
8/5 – 8/6, 2000
16 members, parents, grandparents and friends of the Pack navigated up I-95
to Fall River, MA to visit Battleship Cove and sleep overnight on the mighty,
35,000 ton battleship, USS Massachusetts.
After checking in, finding our births, and a fire drill we had Leave—time to
go ashore and see the original movie model of H.M.S. Titanic in the Maritime Museum!
The 183’s had dinner aboard ship then attended an orientation movie followed by
a former crew member taking questions! Afterwards, we held our Pack Night topside, on the immense aft deck of the ship. At dusk the boys performed a
ceremony honoring the lowering of the Stars and Stripes, while our newest Den Leader played taps. All our boys had a chance to help fold the ship’s
flag, then scampered off to the gun turrets to defend her. (In theory anyway).
The adults had an opportunity to relax a bit and savor the balmy evening
topside. Later, below decks, we all marveled at how many people could sleep—or
attempt to—in one room! This was truly some major, big-time sleep-over!!
After breakfast we explored many areas onboard including: engine room,
hospital, dentist office, Morse Code & radar rooms, and the loading bays of
the 5” and 16” guns. And before leaving the cove, we visited other ships, including the WW II sub
Lionfish.
Shortly before noon, our “hands-on” history lesson ended—we headed out on
the Interstate for a journey back…to the 21st century.
Bully!
Cub-Parent Weekend 2000
(7/14 – 7/16)
Last year it was dry and hot—this year...it was not!
The 183’s attended Shelter Rock District’s annual Cub-Parent camporee with
eight hardy members. We shared our campsite with old friends from Pack 7 and
made new friends with a Cub and his mom & dad from Pack 438, New Hyde Park.
After settling in, a fire was made to roast marshmallows—the favorite delicacy, and probably most important activity, of all Cub campers.
After extinguishing the fire and bedding down a light rain began to fall,
the beginning of a storm that would last 24 hours and flood our campsite on
Saturday afternoon...but never dampened our spirits!
An improvised agenda was created for Saturday’s activities. The 183’s
whipped everyone else playing dodge ball under the C.O.P.E. course pavilion;
visited the nature lodge, sitting outside in the nature; rehearsed our new
skit under a large tarp; attended a fencing demonstration after lunch in the
dinning hall, which was used later in the afternoon as a movie theater. Also, three of our boys and their fathers hiked around Deep Pond during a
relative break in the storm—earning an achievement patch for their efforts!
After dinner our annual campfire was held indoors. The 183’s readily adopted
several boys, who had no other pack members at camp, to perform with us in
our skit, “Tasty Morsels.” Which they performed very well...but hardly in
good taste!
Sunday morning brought the sun, providing an excellent backdrop for Mr.
Panaro’s rendition of Taps during the District’s closing flag ceremony.
We all Did Our Best! the 183’s never “bailed out.” We hung on till the
finish!
It may have been a bit damp, but as we say...BULLY!
The 183’s had an extremely busy May this year!
We started the month, helping the community, by participating in the Udall’s
Cove Committee’s Environmental Clean-up on Saturday the 6th. Pack 183 was the
only Scout unit represented this year…in the neighborhood’s most interesting
treasure hunt. Our finds included: a buried bicycle; parts of a rusting washing machine; and a 5-gallon can of (?), along with all the usual debris.
The next weekend was Webelos Woods, a Council-wide campout for older Cub Scouts preparing to become Boy Scouts. A solid day of activities on Saturday
allowed most boys to complete their Outdoorsman requirements. We met old friends, and made new ones by sharing our campsite and activities with Pack
7 from Garden City.
The Pack chose Sunday the 21st to take a bike hike to Old Fort Totten and visit the museum. Eleven members and siblings of the Pack managed to dodge
the rain and visit the area’s only Civil War ruin. And finally, all the boys joined the entire community for the 72nd annual
Little Neck – Douglaston Memorial Day Parade.
Hey, what’s more in the spirit of the day than Pack 183, with flags flying,
marching down the middle of Northern Blvd.?
A big BULLY to all!
May 2000
Pack 183 bestowed National Quality Unit Award 2000. Yes!
Pack 183 has been granted the coveted Cub Scout Pack National QualityUnit Award!
The award honors leadership, individual Scout advancement and unit participation in District, Council and community events. From meetings
and paperwork to campouts and the Appalachian Trail, We Did Our Best!
The Pack absolutely could not have achieved this honor without the dedication of its leaders, the hard work of its boys and the support of
all the parents. Also, a special "Thanks" is due to all our friends in the community who
have supported Scouting during the past year. It truly matters.
And big BULLY to all!
4/29/2000
ScoutWalk 2000 was the event that finally brought the sun out this month!
Hundreds of Scouts and their families walked the 6k course around
Eisenhower Park on a clear, sunny Saturday morning—capping off the Theodore
Roosevelt Council’s spring fund raiser. Afterwards there was a falconry demonstration, a
monkey bridge to cross, family fire safety demonstrations, Scout history &
memorabilia and carnival-style skill games for young and old. Popcorn, hotdogs,
cold drinks, coffee…and clowns were provided for everyone, adding to the
carnival atmosphere.
And a BIG BULLY to all the boys of Pack 183!
Everyone met or exceeded their sponsorship expectations!
Shelter
Rock District Pinewood Derby 3/12/2000
The 183’s were lucky to have six boys attend our District’s Pinewood
Derby Finals at The Source Mall in Westbury on Sunday March 12th. From
Sands Point to Floral Park, from Little Neck to Oyster Bay, the best
racers in the District brought their model cars for THE BIG RACE. We had
two boys make their Final Heat, Danny P. of the Wolves finished 4th (in
his rookie year) and Randy of the Bears finished 3rd and received a
trophy! This was the 183’s best finish ever! Way Cool! All our boys Did
Their Best and should be very proud that they were able to participate
in the District Finals. Did I overhear some of our boys yelling that the
other Packs better watch out because we were going to eat up their cars
and spit them out our exhausts?…Well, BULLY!
Maple Sugaring 3/4/00
On a beautiful sunny morning, with a real hint of spring in the air, 22
members, family and friends of Pack 183 visited the Theodore Roosevelt
Audubon Sanctuary in Oyster Bay, L.I. for the Sanctuary’s annual Maple
Sugaring event. We learned how maple sugaring was "discovered" and also
how native Long Islanders hunted, used fire and made canoes. After
tapping a Sugar Maple tree we all took a nature hike through the
Sanctuary where we were lucky enough to observe and identify several
birds.
Following the hike the Pack gathered around a campfire for pancakes and
maple syrup. Before leaving we were able to dip our fingers into a
sugaring pail to taste fresh raw sap out of a tree…umm.
Finally the 183's paid respect to President Teddy Roosevelt, our BSA
Council’s first leader and honorary namesake, by visiting his memorial
site in the adjoining cemetery.
As he would say, "Bully!"
The 183’s wrapped up the century with a really big show! The last
Pack
Night of the millennium featured achievement awards, Heritages kick-off,
Pinewood Derby introduction and Fire Safety Night—with a special visit
by a real NYFD fire fighter, Mr. Panaro.
In addition to discussing fire safety, Mr. Panaro arrived with our den
leader, Mr. Seegert, both in full gear. And, after explaining the
equipment and assuring the Pack that this is how your friendly fire
fighter, not Darth Vader, may look when he comes to rescue you, Mr.
Panaro let everyone (Cubs and adults) try on the gear. Way Cool!
Let’s give three great BIG Bullies to Mr. P. and the NYFD.
BULLY! BULLY! BULLY!
We wish everyone a great Holiday Season! Peace.
Autumn Hike
(Appalachian Trail-Hang-Glider View, Housatonic State Forest, CT)
Sunday, November 7, 1999
Wow! The 183's hoped for an invigorating late autumn hike on Sharon
Mountain with some excellent views. And we got it!15 Members of Pack/Troop
183 and 2 guests spent over four and a half hours in the woods on a very
cool, clear and windy day. The 5 mile hike up, along the ridge and back
down the mountain took a lot of extra effort, due to the heavy fallen leaf
coverage, but the trail itself was easy to follow. And we were rewarded
with several excellent views, one of Kaaterskill High Peak clearly visible
in the Catskills across the Hudson! We reached our goal of Hang-Glider View
at 2:25 p.m. and began our return shortly after, reaching the trailhead a
little after 4 p.m. The remoteness of the area was reinforced by the fact
that we met only one other party along the trail all day! Our hike upon the
roof of the oldest mountains in the world was a good challenge. We all made it, and we all Did Our Best!
Bully!
Fall Campout (10/15/99 - 10/17/99)
Baden-Powell Lodge, Nooteeming Scout Camp,
Dutchess County, NY.
Pack 183 had the kind of fall weather that everyone dreams about-pleasant, sunny days and
warm evenings. The trees were in peak fall foliage in central Dutchess county so we went
into the woods to check it out.
The 183 hikers, veterans of many Scout campouts and the Appalachian Trail, set out to hike a path that circumnavigates the camp. And all of us had difficulty
blazing the trail! It was much more rugged than we had anticipated, littered in spots with
fallen trees and the autumn covering of leaves made the lightly used trail challenging to
follow. But well worth it! About a half mile into the woods we stopped at a breathtaking
waterfall. Once back at camp it was time for cider and donuts-and pumpkin carving. Hey,
fall doesn't get any better than this!
We also had time on Saturday for the boys working on their Wood Chip Card to practice the safety rules and hone their skills both sharpening and carving.
For dinner the 183's made a fire outside where we baked potatoes and grilled chicken, burgers and hot dogs. The Cubs loved the concept of
cooking over an open fire, although the adults did all the cooking. After
dinner we all roasted marshmallows, the most important event of any
campout! How do you like yours? Rare, crispy or on fire?
We had a great weekend! Bully!
Notable Quotes: "Who was Baden-Powell?''-Cub Scout
"The founder of the Boy Scouts."-Cubmaster
Jim Seegert (Den Leader)
Cub Scout Pack 183
Theodore Roosevelt Council Shelter Rock District
