At the September Pack Meeting we introduced the Raingutter Regatta, an inexpensive but high-thrill event suitable for all cub scouts. Unlike the Pinewood Derby which requires more advanced design and fabrication skills, the Raingutter Regatta features boats which assemble easily and can be customized by even the youngest scouts. As we learned on the course, the key to victory isn't necessarily the boat design but the ability to blow into the shifting sail. The course is long! So boys need a clear a path to race along side the boats, leaning over and blowing as they go.
As you can see from these photos, the scouts were able to get very close to the sails but their hands were not allowed to touch the boat or the course.
It was tricky to keep your hands away from the boats and to not lean too much on the soft sides of the inflatable track. However it didn't take long for everyone to master the necessary skills.
We also learned a great deal about customizing one's boat. Washable markers? Not the best choice when you are playing in water. Our boats ranged from tricked out with Lego figures inside to colorful sticker designs to shaved pontoons.
Amana Academy's own Exective Director, Mr. Jaleel, paid an unexpected surprise to the competition! We were all thrilled to have Mr. Jaleel on hand as a special guest! The Raingutter Regatta was a great example of STEM education at work.
Least anyone be forgotten even our younger siblings were allowed to enter boats in the competition. Next year we simply MUST have a heat for the ladies.
But the Pack Meeting wasn't just about the Raingutter Regatta! Our dens also created the den flags. Thank you to Cubmaster, Jason Blalock, for building the flag poles for all four dens. This is an exciting element to add to our monthly meetings.
No pack meeting is complete however without a skit! This time the entertainment was brought to us by the Bear Den. We also celebrated the rare opportunity to award FOUNDERS patches to all the scouts who have joined thus far. These very special patches indicate that our scouts were the first to form Pack 285. If you didn't receive a patch, we have some on order and will distribute them at the next pack meeting. Thank you for your patience. In closing we must THANK ALL OF YOU for supplying the varied and delicious dishes that made up our potluck dinner. At the heart of it all, our pack meetings are about community and family.
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