 "This is just a way to show some of the ways Boy Scouts have fun and
learn," said Jason Schafer, leader of Cub Scout Pack 111. "We mailed
out over 300 invitations to this jamboree so they could see
firsthand what we do, and it's a good time for parents and
grandparents to ask questions. There are several leaders available
today, so we can spend time with each family and speak with them
individually."
Luke Hanger and Nick Hanson, firefighters from the Lincoln Rural
Fire Protection District, brought their "Smoke House" to demonstrate
the proper way to move through smoke and exit from a burning
building.
Cpl. David Oltmanns from the Lincoln Police Department brought a
police car to allow the children to see the interior. He explained
the use for the assorted switches and lights on the vehicle and
answered questions.
"Just like the Scouting uniform stands for specific ideals and
brings attention to the organization, which encourages learning and
becoming better individuals," remarked Oltmanns, "it is good for
people, and in this case children, to recognize the police uniform
and symbols for the ideals and standards we stand for."
Oltmanns' son, Kenton, a first-grader at Central Elementary
School, has recently joined a Tiger den.
Webelo den leader Ray Papach brought two go-carts, dubbed "Cub
Mobiles," as entertainment, but also as examples of projects Scouts
can accomplish. His oldest son, Caleb, a sophomore at Lincoln
Community High School, acted as the engine for the vehicle, pushing
Scouts and would-be Scouts in a circular path on the parking lot.
"These go-carts were made by Bears -- third-grade-level Scouts --
as a woodworking project," Papach explained. "It only took a length
of two-by-four, some paint and hardware. The kids learned something,
and it offers a fun example of the possibilities of Scouting."
Papach has a younger son, David, who is a Webelo.
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Scout leader David Smith manned an informational station at the
Scout area, answering questions from parents and exhibiting items
used in several activities at Scout meetings. A campfire was ready
for roasting hot dogs, a favorite thing to do when spending the day
outside or while on a Boy Scout camp-out.
Boys entering first through fifth grades who are interested in
Scouting may call Schafer, pack leader, at 217-737-3068 for more
information.
[By MARLA BLAIR]
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