January 2000 Does Not Compute

C-O-M-P-U-T-E-R Cubs

Have the boys make up letter cards (that people in the back of the room can see when the Cubs hold them up on stage) for the word computer. Have them draw pictures on the cards that represent (to them) what they are saying.

1. "C" stands for Cubs, we're gathered here tonight.

2. "O" stands for "outta." The meeting will be outta sight!

3. "M" stands for "many," the fun things we'll do

4. "P" stands for "people," that's me and you.

5. "U" stands for "under," let's get under way.

6. "T" stands for "to," as in let's do it today!

7. "E" stands for "everyone," so not one of you drag when…

8. "R" stands for "rise," please all rise for the flag.

The Denner calls out "Attention," "Salute," and "Please join together in the Pledge of Allegiance."

Computer Invention

EQUIPMENT: Box made up to look like a computer, large cards with Bobcat, Wolf, etc. on them, actual awards.

CUBMASTER: In keeping with our theme of "Does Not Computer", I would like to unveil my latest invention. (Uncover, or bring in "Computer") This amazing device is able to collect all the information that comes in from our pack committee members, den leaders, Webelos den leaders, and parents. It can then determine which Cub Scouts and Webelos Scouts are eligible for which awards. Allow me to demonstrate.

(Hold up Bobcat card. Insert into slot in machine. Pick up pre-positioned Bobcat awards from rear of box.)

Will (name) and his parents please come forward? (Present awards).

(Follow similar procedures for awards of Wolf, Bear, arrow points, and Webelos badge and activity badges).

(Hold up Arrow of Light card. Insert into machine. Call for Arrow of Light recipient). These young men may or may not be real inventors, but they have shown the truth of the old saying 90 percent of success is perspiration. They have worked long and hard - some as long as three years - to achieve their goal. What they built was not a better mousetrap, but something far more valuable to the world today, better young men. In recognition of this achievement, we present them with an award that is so highly thought of that it is the only Cub Scout badge that can be worn on all other Scout uniforms. (Present awards). I want to congratulate all of you and your parents. The whole pack is proud of your accomplishments, and we're sure you will continue to "Do Your Best".

The World Is Changing

While the world is changing by leaps and bounds, let's not get too caught up in the change to leave behind the positive values of the past and present. Here's a reminder of the kinds of values that Cub Scouts hold dear.

C - Courtesy. Being polite, like holding the door for someone.

O - Obligations. Remembering that we have responsibilities, like doing our chores and our studies.

M - Manners. Remembering to say "please" and "thank you" to others.

P - Peace. Keeping control of ourselves and remembering the Golden Rule.

U - Upbeat. Wearing the smile that helps ourselves and others remember that things are really pretty good, no matter how bad they may seem.

T - Truthful. Being honest.

E - Eagerness. Being ready and willing to help others when they need our help, whether they ask us or not.

R - Respect. Remembering that God made us all no matter how different we are from one another and that we all deserve to be treated with dignity.

S - Sensitivity. Paying attention to other people's feelings and needs.

Sure, these letters may spell out "computer"--a modern day wonder. But don't ever forget that no matter how fast, how fancy, and how powerful these modern machines get, they'll never be as fast as the first "hello," as fancy as the first "You are special," or as powerful as the first "thank you!"