Blue jay

Crows, ravens, magpies, nutcrackers and jays — these songbirds are all corvids, a family with many of the world’s smartest and most social birds. Their intelligence exceeds that of all other bird families, except parrots.

NO “BIRDBRAINS” HERE

With their large brain-to-body size (larger than all other bird families), corvids have complex learning and recognition skills, similar to those of primates. In experiments, crows and ravens solve challenging puzzles designed for them to access a reward (food).

California scrub-jay with peanut

Corvids are so curious, they can even figure out how to use tools without being shown. In the wild, crows have been observed dropping nuts on paved roads and waiting for cars to drive over them so they can then pick out the edible parts of the crushed nuts. Corvids are also good at recognizing individuals. Experiments show that American crows (and other corvids) can identify specific human faces and even people’s facial expressions.

Their language is also highly developed. Listen to crows, jays or ravens, and you’ll notice how many different vocalizations they have! They can also learn vocal mimicry. Blue jays imitate the calls of red-shouldered hawks nearly perfectly, while crows and ravens have a much wider range, mimicking all sorts of sounds, from other animals to mechanical sounds and even human words. While visiting friends in Canada, we heard a common raven several times say the name of our friends’ dog. The raven had heard the dog’s name being yelled over and over and learned to mimic it!

Steller’s jay

FAMILY DEVOTION

Corvids are very social birds and are close to family members. There’s a strong bond not just between parents and young but also between mates, who are typically together for life. Another amazing characteristic of corvids, which appears more often than with most other birds, is something called “cooperative breeding.”

With corvids, this is when the offspring of a pair of jays or crows, for example, stay with their parents even after they are old enough to be on their own. It helps them learn even more for when they do finally go off to raise their own families, but it’s also so they can help their parents raise future clutches of young — their siblings. They might help with nest building, feeding the young or removing poop from the nest.

They can also act as lookouts for hawks, owls or snakes, warning the family when these predators appear. Groups of jays and other songbirds will come together to squawk at a snake or raptor to let the predator know that there will be no meal while “we see you!” Corvids often harass predators larger than themselves. Jays might dive-bomb a crow, and a crow might dive-bomb an even larger predator, like a red-tailed hawk!

The strong family bond in corvids is also shown in their behavior when a family member dies. They mourn the loss deeply. At our home in Florida, a rat snake once killed a blue jay, and a family member perched above on a tree branch making sad sounds for a long time. It was a very emotional observance.

Common raven

WILD FRIENDS

Corvids are found on all continents except Antarctica, with 130 species worldwide. Nearly all of the 20 corvid species native to the U.S. are year-round residents, staying in the same area their whole lives. However, some individuals of certain species, particularly blue jays and American and fish crows, might migrate short distances, heading to warmer areas in the winter. Crows can gather in huge flocks in the hundreds or even thousands (called a “murder” of crows) — safety in numbers!

Many people think crows, ravens, magpies and jays are obnoxious or don’t like them because they are noisy or seem to chase off other birds, but we hope that you’ll come to appreciate and respect these brainy birds. Their ability to adapt and learn is truly remarkable and puts them in a league with other clever, curious creatures. Remember, they can recognize your face and your sounds, so talk to them nicely, put out feeders and water for them, and they might become your “wild” friends!

4 FAST FACTS ABOUT CORVIDS

1. Corvids typically live long lives. One blue jay in the wild lived to be 26 years old. A common raven in captivity lived to the ripe old age of 69.

2. Common ravens are the largest corvid, as well as the largest songbird in the world, weighing up to 3.5 pounds!

3. Corvids store food to eat later — sometimes half a year later or longer! Blue jays and scrubjays cache acorns, and nutcrackers cache pine nuts. Scrub-jays have been known to cache thousands of acorns from one year’s crop.

4. Experiments have shown that crows can use tools, plan ahead, barter for future food rewards and learn to perform tasks even faster than some primates.

Bats and birds are their specialties, but wildlife biologists Selena Birgit Kiser and Mark Kiser love all species of critters. Both have worked for the State of Florida and previously worked for Bat Conservation International on such programs as the Great Florida Birding and Wildlife Trail and the North American Bat House Research Project.

"Clever Curious Corvids: Learn About This Family of Brainy Birds" appeared first on Scout Life magazine.

Ready to try out some snow sports? Before you hit the slopes, check out these nine tips for maximizing your winter fun.

#1. PICK YOUR SNOW SPORT

You can find a ton of fun on ice or snow. There’s ice skating, hockey, ice fishing, snowshoeing, cross-country skiing and sledding, just to name a few winter activities. Two of the most popular are downhill skiing and snowboarding.

If you’ve never done either before, they’re great sports to try with your unit. Carving through the powder presents plenty of challenges and rewards as you progress.

“I had never gone skiing,” says Caroline Fitzgerald, 14, a Star Scout with Troop 340 of Las Vegas, Nevada. “I thought it was a good opportunity to go with my friends. Some of the girls had skied before, so I could ask for help if I needed it.”

#2. PLAN YOUR ADVENTURE

Many ski resorts offer developed trails with varying difficulties. These trails are labeled green circle (easy), blue square (intermediate), black diamond (advanced) and double black diamond (very advanced).

You can find resorts across the country, with most throughout the Rocky Mountains and Appalachians. You might be able to find a place close to home. Troop 340 went on a day trip to Lee Canyon Ski Resort, less than an hour’s drive from Las Vegas.

Skiing and snowboarding can get costly, with day passes ranging from about $20 each to a couple hundred, depending on where and when you go. Search for discounted days. Some resorts provide such days specifically for Scouts and their families, like Shawnee Mountain Ski Area in Pennsylvania. Shawnee’s Scout weekend offers discounts up to 40% off lift tickets and rental equipment. Troop 883 of Eldersburg, Maryland, and Troop 146 of Hoboken, New Jersey, both took advantage of the slashed rates at a recent Scout weekend.

“It wasn’t too crowded, but I did see other troops there,” says Otys Train, 14, a First Class Scout with Troop 146. “Everyone in our troop told our Scoutmaster what they wanted to do; he was able to schedule the rentals.”

Another cost-saving tip: Camp at a nearby council camp, or book a cabin instead of staying at the resort.

Before you go, review the Guide to Safe Scouting to ensure everyone is physically ready and knows the safety rules. You should also have qualified adult leadership.

#3. READ THE SNOW SPORTS PAMPHLET

The Snow Sports merit badge pamphlet is full of valuable information, from safety rules to tips for technique. Read about how to properly get on and off a ski lift, practice etiquette on the mountain and perform first aid.

Dean Mimura, a Snow Sports merit badge counselor, recommends Scouts review the pamphlet before hitting the slopes. He has volunteered for the last few years at an annual Scout event at Big Bear Mountain Resort in California and estimates that usually half of the Scouts who sign up for the merit badge complete it at the event. The more prepared Scouts are, the more successful they tend to be, even if they aren’t trying to earn the merit badge.

“It’s a fun merit badge, and it’s designed to make a Scout a more well-rounded person,” Mimura says. “With any sport, there’s always conditioning, cardio and staying fit. It’s part of the Scout motto.”

#4. GEAR UP

Prepare for cold weather with the proper clothing. That means leaving your cotton shirts and denim jeans at home — these materials won’t keep you warm when they get wet. Instead, you’ll want wool, fleece and synthetic materials. Dress in layers so you can adjust your temperature. Put on waterproof gloves and thermal socks.

Some extra gear Scouts find helpful are hand warmers, a snow mask, a bottle of water and a waterproof bag to hold your stuff.

Always wear a ski helmet and goggles. You can usually rent a helmet, skis, snowboards, poles and boots from the resort.

“I rented a helmet, skis and boots,” Caroline says. “We figured out what sizes we needed and put it on properly. You were able to try it on right there and switch it if it wasn’t feeling right. They made it very easy.”

#5. KNOW YOUR LIMITS

If you’ve never gone skiing or snowboarding, don’t expect to tackle a double black diamond slope by the end of the weekend. Even if you’ve been before, you might want to start on the beginner slopes.

“I’ve been skiing, but that was a long time ago,” says Reyansh Sahani, 12, a Scout with Troop 146. “I fell lots of times for the first few hours. After lunch, I went again, and I didn’t really fall — that was good. You need to have patience.”

The more you get used to maintaining your balance and speed, the more you’ll be ready to advance. One trick for accomplishing this on skis is using the wedge position or “pizza,” in which you make a “V” shape, pointing the tips of your skis toward each other.

#6. TAKE SNOW SPORTS LESSONS

Resort instructors can teach you the basics of skiing and snowboarding. It’s always a good idea to take advantage of their expertise.

“If it’s your first time, second, third or fourth time, always take lessons and get a refresher,” says Ben Reed, 17, a Star Scout with Troop 883. “I wanted to try skiing. They showed how it was very different from snowboarding.”

Most beginners find skiing less challenging than snowboarding, unless they’re great surfers or skateboarders — then the skills translate well to snowboarding. Skiing also allows for more maneuverability since your feet aren’t locked onto a single board.

“Everything has to do with weight distribution and balance,” Mimura says. “If you learn skiing first, snowboarding will come a lot easier.”

#7. PACE YOURSELF

Don’t worry about trying to keep up with your friends or completing a merit badge right away. If you don’t feel comfortable advancing, you can say no. Work on your skills until you feel ready for more challenging slopes.

“I started off on the bunny hill, and we went down that a few times,” says Nicola Mark, 13, a Second Class Scout with Troop 340. “Then we went up to the next level, which was green, and it was a little steeper.”

#8. FALL. AND GET BACK UP AGAIN

You’re most likely going to fall. That’s OK. That’s how you get better. You can study why you fell and then work on your technique.

“When I was falling, the edge of my snowboard would dig into the snow when I’d turn,” says Andrew Demont, 15, a Star Scout with Troop 883. “I’d crash. Then I’d try going more lightly on the turns, and that helped.”

Ski with a buddy and cheer each other on.

“We fell a lot, but we encouraged each other to get back up,” says Eagle Scout Max Magulick, 17, with Troop 883. “People would pass us, but we’d try to stick to our own pace.”

Stay on designated slopes to reduce the risk of running into trees, rocks and other obstacles.

#9. HAVE FUN!

Snow sports can be difficult at first, but with more practice, you’ll soon get used to the slopes and might find a new favorite winter hobby.

“I love the combination of being able to ski and hang out with my friends,” Otys says.

"9 Things to Know About Snow Sports" appeared first on Scout Life magazine.

You’ll need sharp eyes to track down the lost people and missing gear in this fun search-and-find game. Can you spot them all before time runs out?

"Hide & Seek Havoc" appeared first on Scout Life magazine.

WHICH OBJECT IS TALLER?

None: They’re all the same size.

WHICH LINE IS LONGER?

Neither: They’re both the same.

IS THIS GRAY HAZE SHRINKING?

Stare at the black dot. After a while the gray haze will appear to shrink.

DO THESE COLORED LINES BEND OR IS IT AN OPTICAL ILLUSION?

No, they’re perfectly straight—but try telling your eyes that!

ARE THESE WHEELS SPINNING?

Stare at the center. Now move your head back and forth toward and away from the screen. The circles will appear to spin.

HOW MANY BLACK DOTS CAN YOU COUNT IN THIS OPTICAL ILLUSION?

Look closely and you will see them.

DO YOU SEE TWO FACES OR A VASE?

If you see one, close your eyes for a moment, then look for the other.

ARE THESE LINES STRAIGHT OR CROOKED?

Yep, you guessed it. It’s an optical illusion. The horizontal lines look crooked, but they are perfectly straight.

ARE YOU SEEING RED, WHITE & BLUE?

Stare at the center of this flag for one minute. Then look at an empty white sheet of paper and you’ll see a red, white and blue flag.

HOW THIS FLAG WORKS

Your eyes see color as measures of red or green, blue or yellow and bright or dark. When you look at a green object for a long time, your eyes get tired and start seeing red. When you look at yellow, after a while you’ll start to see blue. And darkness turns into brightness. The result: Even this wacky flag can be good, old red, white and blue — after a while!

"9 Optical Illusions to Confuse Your Brain" appeared first on Scout Life magazine.

Our country’s flag is more than just a piece of cloth. It’s a symbol of America. It represents our past, our present and our future. Treating the U.S. flag honorably shows respect for our country’s people, land and ways of life. It’s important to know how to properly display and fold the American flag.

You can fly the flag every day of the year, but you have to do it the right way. When raising it during a Scout outing or meeting, you should follow certain etiquette.

RAISING THE AMERICAN FLAG

When hoisting a flag on a flagpole, one person should hold the folded flag so it does not touch the ground. If it touches the ground, that doesn’t mean the flag should be retired — you can clean it instead. As long as it’s still suitable for display, the flag can fly. A second person should attach the flag to the flag line, which is called a “halyard.”

Once attached, briskly raise the flag, keeping the line tight. When the flag is flying, step back and salute as the second person ties the halyard to the flagpole.

FLYING MULTIPLE FLAGS

If the U.S. flag is flown with other types of flags — like state flags or maybe your Scout unit’s flag — the U.S. flag should be given the position of honor to its own right. That means if you’re standing next to the flag and looking out at an audience or away from a building, the U.S. flag should always be on the right. The American flag should be the first hoisted and the last lowered.

Flying the flag at half-staff shows sorrow after a national tragedy or the death of a national or state figure. It also honors those who have sacrificed their lives for our country, like on Memorial Day. On that holiday, fly the flag at half-staff until noon and then hoist it to full-staff.

LOWERING THE AMERICAN FLAG

The American flag should be lowered slowly by one person while a second person salutes it until it’s within reach. When the flag is in reach, the person who was saluting should gather the flag in his arms while the other removes the flag from the flagpole and re-ties the halyard. After it’s removed from the halyard, both people can fold the flag.

HOW TO FOLD THE AMERICAN FLAG

After lowering the flag, you’re not done yet. You can’t just fold up the flag any old way. Here’s how to fold the American flag:

Hold it at waist level between yourself and another person, fold it in half lengthwise, then fold it in half lengthwise again, always keeping the blue field on the outside. While one person holds the flag by the blue field, the other should make triangular folds from the opposite end until only the blue field is available.

WHEN TO FLY THE FLAG

You can fly the American flag every day, but there are certain national and state holidays that call for its display. Some of those include:

• New Year’s Day (Jan. 1)
• Inauguration Day (every four years on Jan. 20)
• Martin Luther King Jr.’s Birthday (third Monday in January)
• Lincoln’s Birthday (Feb. 12)
• Presidents Day (third Monday in February)
• National Vietnam War Veterans Day (March 29)
• Easter Sunday (on a Sunday between March 22 and April 25)
• Armed Forces Day (third Saturday in May)
• Memorial Day (last Monday in May)
• Flag Day (June 14)
• Independence Day (July 4)
• National Korean War Veterans Armistice Day (July 27)
• Labor Day (first Monday in September)
• Patriot Day (Sept. 11)
• Constitution Day (Sept. 17)
• Columbus Day (second Monday in October)
• Navy Day (Oct. 27)
• Veterans Day (Nov. 11)
• Thanksgiving Day (fourth Thursday in November)
• Christmas Day (Dec. 25)

The U.S. flag can be carried on a staff in parades, at Scout meetings and during other ceremonies and events.

"How to Display and Fold the American Flag" appeared first on Scout Life magazine.

With an upcoming election, you’ll probably see and hear more and more political talk from adults, friends, social media and TV.

SCOUTING PROMOTES GOOD CITIZENSHIP

In Scouting, we don’t endorse specific candidates or parties; we promote good citizenship. Good citizenship includes defending the rights of others, being informed and voting.

WHAT IF YOU’RE NOT OLD ENOUGH TO VOTE?

Unless you’ll be 18 years old by Election Day, you won’t be able to vote in this election. So how can you be a good citizen and fulfill your responsibilities as an American during this patriotic time?

In the 1950s, Cub Scouts, Scouts and Explorers launched a campaign, hanging Liberty Bell-shaped doorknob hangers, adding homemade “Vote” signs to their bicycles and offering to babysit neighbors’ children so parents could head to the polls.

You can do the same by reminding others about their right to vote.

Here are some other ideas:

• You can hold a fun mock election, complete with debates, at your unit meeting.
• You can fly the American flag.
• You can study the U.S. Constitution or visit your city hall or state legislature.
• You can even write a public official a letter or email, voicing your opinion on an issue.

There is a lot you can do to be a good citizen — not just during an election year, but all the time.

"How to Be a Good Citizen Even if You Can’t Vote" appeared first on Scout Life magazine.

If you were a Thanksgiving food, what would you be? A dinner roll? Pumpkin pie? Turkey? Use our super scientific personality quiz to find out and share your results with your friends!

"What Thanksgiving Food Are You? Take the Quiz!" appeared first on Scout Life magazine.

Q: What are good options for waterproof hiking boots?
— Saralynn, Sleepy Hollow, New York

A: Waterproof hiking boots do a great job at repelling outside moisture. An ideal time to pack them are on rainy or snowy adventures. However, if you sweat a lot, they can trap inside moisture, too, which can lead to damp, stinky socks. So pair your boots with wool or synthetic socks, which are designed to wick moisture away from your feet.

Some good boot options I’ve tested out recently are the Teva Grandview Gore-Tex hiking boot ($175, teva.com) and the Muck Outscape Max boot ($130, muckbootcompany.com).

The Grandview combines waterproof leather, quick-dry mesh and Gore-Tex. Gore-Tex is a waterproof yet breathable material; it’s often used in gloves, boots and rain jackets. The Grandview feels very comfortable, thanks to its adjustable heel lock system, which relieves pressure off your toes when hiking downhill.

The Outscape uses rubber and flexible neoprene to repel the elements. It also has a large collar opening, making it easy to slip the boots on and off.

"Two Good Options for Waterproof Hiking Boots" appeared first on Scout Life magazine.

Sustainability means not wasting our resources. Nemo Equipment is trying to further that mission with its Endless Promise products, including the Forte synthetic sleeping bag ($170 for a 35-degree bag, $200 for a 20-degree bag, nemoequipment.com), which is 100% recyclable.

Nemo took its top-selling three-season sleeping bag and redesigned it so every part could be recycled. It still keeps you warm with 35- and 20-degree-rated versions, each with adjustable zippered vents that can help you find the right temperature. The bag’s shape also provides more room in the shoulder and knee areas, making it more comfortable to sleep on your side.

Send your used sleeping bag back to Nemo to be resold or recycled and the company will quote you a price for your bag or send you a gift card as a thanks for recycling.

"Stuff We Like: Nemo Endless Promise Sleeping Bag" appeared first on Scout Life magazine.

What’s going on in this picture? What is that cat doing or thinking?

If you can think of a funny caption for this photo, just post it in the comment form at the bottom of this page. After we approve it, your funny caption will be on this page for everyone to read.

Click here to write captions for more funny photos.

"Write a Funny Caption For This Photo" appeared first on Scout Life magazine.

How much do you really know about famous Halloween creatures?

"Take the Monster Trivia Quiz" appeared first on Scout Life magazine.

Here’s what you’ll find inside the November 2024 issue of Scout Life magazine. Remember, many articles are only available to subscribers and are not available online.

Please visit scoutlife.org/subscribe to subscribe to the print or digital editions of Scout Life magazine.

NOVEMBER 2024 FEATURES

REACHING THE PINNACLES

These Scouts found a new adventure climbing outdoors.

• Outdoor Climbing Is a New Adventure for These California Scouts

TOYING AROUND

Making a list? Check out some of the latest and greatest in toys.

• Explore Our Super-Fun Guide to the Greatest Toys of 2024 and Win!

GEAR GUY: LET IT RAIN

Stay dry with this key piece of gear.

• How To Buy a Good Rain Jacket for Outdoor Activities

SCOUTING AROUND: START A COLLECTION

Rocks, action figures, buttons, cereal boxes, baseball cards — you can collect practically anything.

• Visit the Scouting Around blog

GAMES

Here are some of the season’s hottest games.

• Winter 2024 Videogames: Sonic Shadow Generations, NBA 2K25 and More!

AND MORE!

Look for the regular score of comics, jokes, games, Scouts in Action and more! Only in the November 2024 issue of Scout Life!

• Wacky Adventures @Scout Life
• Pee Wee Harris
• Scouts in Action
• More S.I.A.

"Inside the November 2024 Issue" appeared first on Scout Life magazine.

Ready to discover the coolest toys, games, and gadgets of the year? Check out our annual Scout Life Toy Guide for all the epic stuff you need to have on your list! Everything here has been tested, reviewed and approved by kids. Get ready to find your next favorite thing!

PUT ON AN AIR SHOW

The Sky Viper Nova FX Light Display Drone is easy to fly, and it can flip and do barrel rolls with the touch of the controller’s stunt button. It’s for both indoors and outdoors, but our 11-year-old pilot says, “You really need a fair amount of room.” He also says it “has a bunch of lights you can cycle through to change colors.” Twenty-four bright LED lights with 25+ different color patterns, to be exact. ($49.99, skyrocketon.com)

Before using flying toys, visit knowbeforeyoufly.org for guidelines from the Federal Aviation Administration.

INSIDE ACTION

Bad weather day? Nex Playground brings the action inside. It turns your TV into a virtual arcade, gym, obstacle course and more. Get moving with games for all ages. Our 11-year-old tester says, “The dancing game is so, so fun. There are lots of games you can play with your family.” Her 7-year-old brother says, “I like playing Whack-a-Mole and the spaceship one with my sister. Brick Buster is really fun.” ($199.99 for unit with five games and carrying case; $49 quarterly or $89 yearly for Play Pass, which unlocks 20+ games and experiences; nexplayground.com)

FROM BATMOBILE TO BATCAVE

Get 2 for 1 with the Ultimate Transforming Batmobile. Choose between Batmobile action and adventures in the Batcave command center. More than 20 sounds and LED lights bring this playset to life, adding realism to the superhero excitement. It also comes with a 4-inch Batman action figure, a Bat Glider and more. ($59.99, spinmaster.com)

JOIN THE SCIENCE SQUAD

On the way to your own rocket launch, watch a real one in virtual reality (VR), as well as explore the International Space Station. Then come back to Earth in the Orion capsule and visit Mission Control. As a member of his Science Squad, you can count on Bill Nye’s Rocket Lab VR Activity Set to guide you every step of the way with videos, a cool booklet and more. ($49.99, abacusbrands.com)

GAME ON

Take your game wherever you go with the Dink Buddy portable pickleball net. This sturdy and well-made net is easy to set up and take down — our testers, ages 9 to 13, were able to do it all by themselves. It comes in a handy storage bag, but it doesn’t include paddles or balls. Once you have those, you’re good to go! ($99, mydinkbuddy.com)

STOMP STUNTS

Launch Stomp Rocket Stunt Planes with just a stomp of your foot! The three different foam planes were designed by real aeronautical engineers to perform some really cool tricks: giant loops, 100-foot-long glides, and crazy flips and turns. The launcher is adjustable so you can try out different angles. ($29.99, stomprocket.com)

MUSIC MAKER

If you’re into making music, Otamatone is for you. This cute, fun-to-play little guy teaches rhythm, pitch, scales, melodies and more. Press and slide your fingers up and down to play different notes. Squeezing its face makes funny sounds, and shaking the stem adds vibrato. Our 9- and 11-year-old testers play all kinds of songs with it and can’t put it down! ($39.99, hamee.com)

CRASHING FUN

Send those hard-hatted, spring-loaded Crash Cats flying! It’s an easy and fun sliding block puzzle game to play with friends or solo. The goal is to keep the red- helmeted cat on the board while crashing all the yellow-helmeted cats out. Our 10- and 12-year-old players got a kick out of the problem-solving fun! ($29.99, ravensburger.us)

BUILD THE MAGIC

Relive exciting Harry Potter adventures with the Lego Triwizard Tournament: The Arrival set. More than 1,200 pieces come together to create the highly detailed Durmstrang Ship and Beauxbatons Carriage. The set comes with five minifigs and lots of accessories, including the Triwizard Cup and Goblet of Fire! ($139.99, lego.com)

FUN IN MOTION

Put together more than 50 structures with the TECTI kinetic building system. The cubes are interlocking and able to shift into different shapes because of built-in hinges. TECTI is recommended for ages 12+, but our 7-year-old tester who’s really into building sets says, “It’s fun and not very hard to put together, and you can make cool toys that you can play with.” ($44.99, funinmotiontoys.com)

THE CHOICE OF CHAMPS

Duncan’s Hornet is one of the best looping yo-yos around. It’s easy for beginners to use, but it’s also a favorite of world champs for two-handed competition play. It features an improved ball-bearing axle and gap, and the polycarbonate construction makes it really durable. ($9.99, duncantoys.com)

PEEL, TEAR AND SHARE!

With the Sticki Rolls Sticki Station, make your own sticker bracelets and necklaces simply by peeling and tearing. As the ultimate DIY pack, the station includes 32 Sticki Rolls of 10 holographic mini stickers with cute characters that make six bracelets and two necklaces. Share your creations with friends! Six charms and tons of colorful beads included. ($24.99, skycastletoys.com)

SUPER CUBER

Go superhero with Rubik’s Cubers. Choose from Batman, Iron Man, Black Panther, Spider-Man and more to take on the Rubik’s Cube challenge. The character’s head is the puzzle cube, and the character’s body is the stand. Our 13-year-old tester has his displayed in his room and takes it down to play with all the time. ($14.99, amazon.com)

DISNEY DUELING

Donald Duck vs. Flounder! Mickey Mouse vs. Maleficent! With Disney Lorcana Trading Card Game: Gateway, use character cards to battle your opponent. Our 10- and 12-year-old players found the game fun and more challenging than Pokémon and Yu-Gi-Oh! Be aware that it’s not necessarily something that can be played in the back seat of the car: Lots of card decks and game pieces are involved. ($24.99, ravensburger.us)

SCURRY AND SCALE

Make it scurry across the floor and scale walls! The remote-controlled Hex Bots Wall Crawler Gecko has a range of 25 feet and even has glowing red eyes. Our brother (age 13) and sisters (11 and 9) testers report, “It’s pretty cool that it actually climbs and stays on the wall without falling off!” The gecko has a rechargeable battery, but the remote requires two AAA batteries (not included). ($29.99, spinmaster.com)

OUT OF THIS WORLD

Go on a Galactic Adventure with this roller-coaster building set! It comes with more than 300 pieces and is 2 feet tall and 3 feet wide when assembled. Start your space shuttle on a motorized chain up the first hill and then down through sharp turns and corkscrews on its out-of-this-world journey. ($79.99, tlji.com)

DINO ADVENTURES

Build your own exciting adventures with Dinosaur Dash Tracks. The set comes with more than 200 pieces, including a jungle off-roader, dino car, six dinosaurs, a drive-through cave and a hanging cage contraption to capture those pesky dinos. You can even decorate everything with glow-in-the-dark stickers. Our two 10-year-old testers’ final review? “It’s really cool!” ($27.99, walmart.com)

COLORFUL CONSTRUCTION

Our 9-, 11- and 13-year-old testers absolutely loved the Connetix Rainbow Ball Run. Use colorful magnetic tiles, tubes and your imagination to build structures to race wooden balls. Our reviewers like that the tiles can be “used for many different options and are really sturdy — they don’t just fall apart.” The only drawback is that you need an additional pack to make what’s shown on the box. ($99.99; additional Rainbow Square Pack $75; connetixtiles.com)

PET YOUR DIGITAL PET

Introducing Punirunes, a squishy digital pet! Take care of your super-cute pal and help it grow. You’ll feed, bathe, customize it with outfits and colors, decorate its room, play games with it and more. And you can actually touch it as you do these things and watch it react on screen. Unlock 55 characters, all in one pod! ($39.99, spinmaster.com)

GO, DODO!

Dodo is a hilarious, fast-moving memory game full of family fun! Players race against time to make sure the dodo bird’s egg gets safely to the bottom of the game board’s mountain. “You have to be quick!” say our brother (age 12) and sister (10) reviewers. “You can play again and again as a single player or with friends. It had us laughing and wondering what it would do next!” ($34.95, thamesandkosmos.com)

I SPY TREASURE

Go exploring for treasure with Spy Labs: Pocket Metal Detector. This nifty tool senses metallic stuff (Think: coins and more!) through thin layers of soil, sand, fabric and paper. It’s small enough to carry around in your pocket while out on your adventures. Our 10-year-old tester was impressed: “It really works!” ($12.95, thamesandkosmos.com)

READY, SET, STOMP!

Go head to head with your friends with Dueling Stomp Racers. Each air-powered race car takes off with the stomp of your foot on the launcher. The kit also comes with a ramp for cool car tricks, and you can customize your cars with the included decal stickers. Our 10-year-old racers had a blast! ($29.99, stomprocket.com)

TUMMPLE TOPPLE

It’s kind of like Jenga, but you can build with Tummple in different directions. Place bricks and tumps (blockers) to create barriers as you build a neat structure. To win, don’t topple it, and be the one with the fewest bricks left at the end. Our tester family says it’s a super-easy and fun game with sturdy, well-made pieces. ($21.99, komarcgames.com)

NAUGHTY DOG

It’s really simple, but it’s doggone fun! With The Dog Ate My Homework game, one player feeds the dog the “homework” page and turns the ear crank for the chews, and the other player unscrambles the shredded picture. Put it back together in time and win a Doggie Treat. The player with the most after three rounds wins. ($25, universitygames.com)

GIGA FUN

Mom and Dad might remember this one: GigaPets — they’ve made a comeback! Each fun digital pet is updated but still full of personality, with lots of sounds and animations. Play games, teach it tricks and take care of it so it will grow. Choose from Floppy Frog, StarCat/CompuKitty, Pixie, Bit Bunnies and more. It comes with a keychain, so it’s easy to take your new friend everywhere. ($19.99, gigapets.com)

"Explore Our Super-Fun Guide to the Greatest Toys of 2024 and Win!" appeared first on Scout Life magazine.

"Try the Famous Chocolate and Candy Bar Quiz" appeared first on Scout Life magazine.

You can create a tasty meal with just heavy-duty aluminum foil and hot coals from a campfire. Food wrapped airtight in foil cooks like it’s in a miniature pressure cooker.

PREPARING THE INGREDIENTS

Almost anything you like can be cooked in a foil dinner packet. Here are some of our favorite ingredients:

• Protein: Ground beef, chicken breast, sausage, fish, or even tofu for a vegetarian option.
• Vegetables: Potatoes, carrots, onions, bell peppers, zucchini, mushrooms, corn, etc.
• Seasoning: Salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, or Italian seasoning.
• Fat: Olive oil, butter, or cooking spray to prevent sticking and add flavor.

To prepare the ingredients, cut the vegetables into uniform, bite-sized pieces so they cook evenly. If you’re using meat, make sure it’s cut into small pieces or patties for faster, even cooking.

Lay out a large sheet of aluminum foil (about 12-18 inches long). For best results, use heavy-duty aluminum foil to prevent tearing. You may also want to double wrap it if you’re concerned about your meal breaking open during cooking.

Before assembling your meal, lightly oil or spray the the foil to prevent sticking. Then layer your ingredients. Start with the protein (like a ground beef patty, sausage or chicken), then add your veggies on top. Season generously with salt, pepper and your choice of herbs and spices.

HOW TO FOLD A FOIL DINNER

When you fold your foil meal, allow some space for expansion by wrapping your uncooked food loosely. If you want your food to brown or broil as if it were in a skillet, leave the package open at the top so the steam can escape, and you can watch your meal cook. Otherwise, fold the foil to make it airtight.

There are three ways to fold a foil dinner: handle wrap, bundle wrap and drugstore wrap.

• To use the handle wrap, tear off a section of foil long enough to double it, and crimp and fold the foil into the shape you need.
• For the bundle wrap, place your food in the center of the foil. Bring the corners of the foil up into a pyramid shape, twisting the four corners together to create a seal.
• And with the drugstore wrap, place your food in the center of the foil. Fold the sides up and tightly crimp and fold down several times. Bring the open ends together, folding several times, and crimp it to seal.

HOW LONG DOES A FOIL DINNER TAKE TO COOK?

Place the wrapped food directly on a bed of hot coals. With some heat on top, a foil packet of diced vegetables and meat should cook in 10 to 15 minutes. Whole potatoes are done in 40 to 50 minutes. If you don’t have heat on top, you’ll want to flip it halfway through.

Use long tongs and oven mitts to move foil packs or pick them up. Open the packets carefully, as steam will escape. You can eat directly from the foil or transfer your meal to a plate. Add any extras like cheese, herbs, or sauces at this point.

"How to Cook a Tasty Foil Dinner In the Campfire" appeared first on Scout Life magazine.

When you trek uphill, a hiking stick or trekking pole helps you keep your footing. If you’re trekking up a snowy mountain, you’ll want to carry an ice ax. Not only can an ice ax help you as you climb, it could also save you during a fall.

If you fall on a steep snow slope and begin to slide, you’ll want to use the ax to self-arrest, or stop your slide. Grip the head of your ice ax with one hand (the point of the pick turned away from you) and hold the shaft with the other. Roll toward the head of the ax until you are on your belly. The pick will embed itself in the snow and should stop you in a surprisingly short distance.

If your fall turns into a headfirst tumble, roll toward the pick and, as it bites into the snow and begins to slow your descent, swing your feet around until they are below you.

Self-arresting requires expert instruction and a lot of practice. Begin with purposely sliding on a slope with a safe runout. Slide in every imaginable position. When you automatically make the right moves to arrest your fall, you will have mastered a mountaineering safety skill.

"How to Use an Ice Ax to Self-Arrest on a Snowy Slope" appeared first on Scout Life magazine.

Rocks, action figures, buttons, cereal boxes, baseball cards — you can collect practically anything. It’s a fun hobby that you can start with little to no money, depending on what you collect.

First, consider what you enjoy. If it’s nature, you might want to collect leaves, seashells or fossils. If you like sports, maybe you can find baseballs, hockey pucks or uniforms. Whatever you choose, make it more than a random accumulation of things — make it an organized group of stuff you like. It will be something you can be proud of and will probably want to display.

For your Pinewood Derby cars, you can build stands. The instructions for how to make one are on scoutlife.org.

For your rock collection, simply place rocks in an egg carton or shoebox with cardboard dividers. For your favorite issues of Scout Life magazine, you can store them in plastic sleeves. Use your imagination with how you want to show off and preserve your collection.

Share your cool collection with us, and it could be featured in a future issue of Scout Life!

"How to Start a Collection of Practically Anything" appeared first on Scout Life magazine.

Q: What should I bring on a cold campout?

— Mark, Knoxville, Tennessee

A: Think layers. In addition to your outdoor essentials, toiletries and sleeping gear, pack clothing that you can easily add or remove. This helps you maintain ideal comfort, especially if the temperature or conditions change.

These layers should address the “three W’s”: warmth, wicking and weather. Your outermost layer protects you from the elements. Look for clothing labeled “windproof” and “waterproof.” Your warmth layer should be made of fleece, wool, down or synthetic insulation — these materials are designed to keep you warmer than others, like cotton. Your wicking layer is worn closest to your skin, and it’s supposed to wick away moisture, keeping you dry.

Don’t forget a hat — you can lose 10% or more of your body heat through your head. I’d suggest wool or synthetics, like Coal’s Uniform knit cuff beanie ($27, coalheadwear.com), which is made with Polylana fiber, a very soft synthetic material that is recyclable.

Wear insulated gloves and footwear, too. Some options I’ve tried are the Gordini Foundation gloves ($95, gordini.com), which use a combination of polyester and goose down, and the Exped Camp Booty ($65, exped.com), a pair of warm shoes made with recycled polyester.

"Think Layers When Packing for a Cold Campout" appeared first on Scout Life magazine.

Columbia’s Hikebound rain jacket

Rain doesn’t have to ruin your fun. A good rain jacket will help keep you dry and comfortable, whether you’re caught in a sprinkle or hiking for days in a steady rain.

Get a jacket that’s made for outdoor sports, meaning it’s both waterproof and breathable. Wearing a rain jacket that’s not breathable is a little like wearing a trash bag: You’ll get wet from your sweat on the inside.

You’ll also want one that’s packable.

Charlie Berg

Look for jackets tough enough to handle rubbing against your backpack. If you like to travel fast and light, abrasion resistance isn’t as important as packability and weight.

THE LOW DOWN ON RAIN JACKETS

When experts talk about rain jackets, they usually categorize them as either hard shells or soft shells.

Hard shells are what most people think of when they talk about outdoor rain jackets. These are lightweight hooded jackets designed to keep out wind and rain. Standard rain slickers are considered hard shells, too, but we’re focusing on rain jackets that are also breathable, meaning they wick sweat away from your body. If you’re wearing something that doesn’t breathe, you’re going to sweat and get all the rest of your insulation wet because none of the moisture is going to be able to leave.

Soft shells are woven jackets that are wind- and water-resistant and totally breathable. Many soft shells use a durable water-repellent (a.k.a. DWR) coating on the jacket’s surface to make it shed rain.

ONE RAIN JACKET FOR ALL?

If you can afford only one rain jacket, you should buy a simple lightweight hard shell. Hard shells are necessary equipment for heavy wind and wet weather because a soft shell jacket simply won’t give you the needed protection. That said, if you can afford both, a soft shell jacket is ideal for about 80 percent of your outdoor activities, and you can keep a lightweight, waterproof hard shell in your backpack for the nasty weather.

Outdoor Research’s Packable Stratoburst Stretch Rain Jacket ($165, outdoorresearch.com) is great for hiking and more. It’s light and packable, with large pit zips for venting on hot days. The fabric is waterproof and very breathable, and the jacket is stretchy so you can move around freely. Some rain jackets are crinkly and loud; this one is not.

HARD VS. SOFT SHELL

Soft shells are generally more supple and more breathable but less windproof and less waterproof. Hard shells typically don’t fit quite as nice, but they’re usually more waterproof, more windproof and lighter weight.

WATERPROOF/BREATHABLE FABRICS

These are marketing words you’ll hear used to describe rain jackets. Usually these jackets are built with two to three layers of material, including a special membrane layer that keeps weather out while letting your sweat escape.

A common misconception when people are looking for a rain jacket is they think they need to see the words 100 percent waterproof on the tag. Depending on your activity, you might want a decent amount of waterproofness, but don’t get hung up on it.

There are a wide variety of waterproof/breathable materials on the market. Some are more heavily advertised than others, but often the generic or “house brand” waterproof/breathable fabrics offered by manufacturers will work just as well for you. Gore-Tex, for example, is a fine product, but it’s only one of many waterproof/breathable fabrics.

Look for a rain jacket that is free of PFAS (or “forever chemicals”), commonly used in waterproof coatings.

With pit zips, spacious mesh pockets and two hood adjustments, Marmot’s Precip Eco Jacket ($120, marmot.com) is the original superb-value outdoor rain jacket. It has a little bit of stretch, and while it feels a little stickier on the skin than some, it’s a tried-and-true option that will last and perform.

MAKE SURE YOUR RAIN JACKET FITS

You want a rain jacket to be decently trim. You don’t want it to be bulking out and getting in the way of your mobility. To make sure it fits right, raise your arms over your head and make sure the bottom of the jacket doesn’t come up above your waist.

If you want the most versatility from your hard-shell rain jacket, size up — not down — so you can layer underneath it when the weather gets cooler.

Soft shells should be more form fitting. If you’ll be wearing a backpack waist belt or climbing harness, consider how the jacket may interfere with that.

THE HOOD

A really well-designed hood that lets you see well is something a lot of people probably don’t think about a lot, but it’s really important because with poorly designed hoods, you can barely do anything. Every time you turn your head you’re looking into the side of the hood.

Look for a hood that has good coverage, can fit over a climbing helmet (if you’ll be climbing) and is able to cinch down tight to your face so it doesn’t obstruct your view.

Save some money with Columbia’s Hikebound Rain Jacket ($80, columbia.com). The mesh-lined waterproof breathable polyester jacket comes in multiple sizes. It’s a sturdy two-layer seam-sealed shell designed for hiking. The zippered hand and chest pockets stash gear, and the hem, cuff and hood are all adjustable.

TAPED SEAMS

As rain jackets increase in price, you move from a basic coated fabric to one with taped seams.

“Taped seams are crucial for keeping you protected from rain in a downpour,” Berg says.

That said, keep in mind it doesn’t matter how much you spend, in a downpour even the most expensive rain jackets will probably eventually wet-out.

h2>PIT ZIPS

Even though they may claim breathability, the truth is that any rain jacket is going to be a little clammy. So look for one with pit zips (zippers that open the sides of the jacket under your arms) because they help with breathability, especially when you’re being active.

BELLS AND WHISTLES

MP3 pockets, hydration bladders, etc. You’ll see tricked-out jackets in the stores with these things, but it’s best to keep it simple. The ideal jacket is really lightweight and just has a well-designed hood, two chest pockets and fully sealed seams.

Columbia’s Inner Limits III ($100, columbia.com) has a mesh liner that makes this jacket a little heavier and bulkier than others. But it has taped seams and uses Columbia’s Omnitech waterproofing.

TRY BEFORE YOU BUY

You can find good rain jackets online, but it’s always best to buy in person because you can try it on.

COST

In general, the more you spend on a jacket, the more bells and whistles you’ll get. Also, higher-end waterproof rain jackets tend to be more breathable.

“Invest a little more, and you’ll get a jacket with pit zips for clearing sweat, better fabrics and an adjustable hood with a brim so you can see well while you’re moving,” Berg says. “Above $150, rain jackets may have some stretch for comfort, and the fabrics will usually be more breathable.”

If you happen to fit into kids’ sizes rather than adult jackets, you can save lots of cash on a rain jacket while still getting the same waterproof/windproof performance.

KEEPING YOUR RAIN JACKET CLEAN

Consider using a product like Nikwax to wash and re-waterproof your jacket, and follow the jacket manufacturer’s instructions regarding cleaning.

"How To Buy a Good Rain Jacket for Outdoor Activities" appeared first on Scout Life magazine.

Staring up at a giant rock wall, the Scouts of troops 175 and 4175 pondered how they might make it to the top. This would be different from their regular outings to indoor climbing gyms.

But the more they studied the textured volcanic breccia rock, the more places they spotted to grab and step.

“In outdoor climbing, there are a lot more little ledges for your fingers and feet,” says Adam Woo, 15, a Star Scout. “It’s a lot easier to grip. With indoor climbing, there are a lot more bigger holds. All the holds here were a lot smaller, but even though they looked small, they worked a lot better than they looked.”

After clipping into the top ropes, the Scouts were soon scaling the massive natural wall, one of the many places to climb at Pinnacles National Park in central California.

Top left: Owen Salles works on the crux of a climbing route. The crux is defined as the hardest and most physically demanding move on a route. Bottom left: Ansel Chai, Scoutmaster Jeremy Wright and Assistant Scoutmaster David Woo review a climbing guide. Right: Adam Woo rappels down a rock wall at Pinnacles National Park.

GIVE OUTDOOR CLIMBING A TRY

Every year, troops 175 and 4175 of Foster City, Calif., visit an indoor climbing gym. These businesses set up artificial rock walls with bolted-in handholds, creating a safe, accessible environment to enter the sport of climbing. It’s a fun way to spend the day, but after doing it for years, the Scouts wanted a bigger challenge.

“With indoor climbing, there’s already top ropes and everything; it’s a lot easier,” Adam says. “They have a lot of people that are certified in the gym. With outdoor climbing, you have to set up all the safety.”

When you’re planning your own climbing adventure, you can’t just grab some climbing gear and go. You must have qualified adult instructors who have completed in-depth climbing training. Finding certified instructors proved to be the toughest part of the troops’ first outdoor climbing campout. But, if you can’t do an activity properly and safely, you shouldn’t do it at all. That’s all part of being prepared.

Amber Dogra eyes where she should grab to help her climb.

After the troops got instructors lined up, they still weren’t ready — the Scouts had some skills to learn too.

“We went over knots, climbing-specific knots,” says Tyler Lo, 15, a Star Scout. “We did some games. We had a relay race to see who would put on the equipment the fastest.”

Climbing equipment includes helmets, shoes and harnesses, and it’s important to know how they fit correctly. The troops studied how to wear and use the equipment over a few meetings before the trip.

Left: Amber Dogra moves up a route. The Scouts had a couple route options to try. Right: Austin Lu checks his figure-eight knot, which is secured to his harness.

ROCK ON

Pinnacles National Park features huge rock formations, remnants of extinct volcanoes that were split by the San Andreas Fault and moved by tectonic plates over millions of years. Today, climbers enjoy conquering these rocks and exploring the caves within the park.

The troops’ trip last fall included a full day of climbing and checking out a cave. The adults set up two different climbing paths, one harder than the other.

“I was worried I might not enjoy this experience, but since there were different difficulties, and we had certified adults to help us, I was able to do all the levels,” says Sharanya Mahanta, 15, a First Class Scout. “The sense of accomplishment to do all those things was definitely rewarding.”

Adam Woo prepares to descend after completing a climbing path. He communicates with his belay partner to ensure his partner is ready to help him down.

The Scouts cheered each other on as they scrambled up each path. If a climber couldn’t figure out how to advance, their fellow Scouts shouted out suggestions.

“There was a lot of collaboration,” Tyler says. “Watching other people do it before you helped.”

TASTE FOR ADVENTURE

After climbing, a group of Scouts grabbed their lunches and had a picnic at a cave entrance. Inside, they explored the cave’s developed trails, climbed staircases and looked for bats. It added to an already adventurous campout.

Austin Lu nears the top of a path after conquering the crux. Climbing paths are rated by their difficulty — the higher the rating, the harder the path.

The Scouts returned to camp at sundown and spent a little time reflecting on their day. There were many lessons learned from climbing: being patient, never giving up, trusting each other.

“Don’t feel bad if you’re not able to do it the first time,” says Sunaina Balakrishna, 14, a Scout. “There are so many ways you can get up to the top.”

Adam Woo of Troop 175 feels for handholds while climbing in Pinnacles National Park.

But one of the biggest lessons was that it’s fun to do new things.

“At the patrol leaders’ council, we voted to try to make this an annual thing,” says Siddharth Gopinath, 12, a Star Scout. “A lot of us wanted to do this again. I definitely think this was a good event.”

"Outdoor Climbing Is a New Adventure for These Scouts" appeared first on Scout Life magazine.

Yuanqin Tang reaches for an iron rung.

When climbing on natural rock, you seek small ledges to cling onto. In a gym, you grip artificial handholds. On a via ferrata route, you grab iron rungs embedded into the rock. It’s like climbing a ladder — and Troops 55 of Great Falls, Virginia, climbed this way to spectacular views.

“Via ferrata” is Italian for “by way of iron.” At NROCKS, an outdoor climbing center in eastern West Virginia, the Scouts latched onto a belay cable and climbed a series of paths up vertical rock faces. After a few hours, they gained more than 1,000 feet in elevation.

NROCKS Outdoor Adventures manager Bryan Williams gives a safety briefing to Samuel and Kyle Shadid. Before going on any climbing adventure, review and follow the safety rules. You can read Scouting America’s guidelines in the Climb On Safely and Belay On guides.

“It mimics bouldering,” says Joy He, 16, a Star Scout. “It was less climbing up and more climbing a distance.”

It’s an intimidating challenge, but it was one the Scouts were up to.

After a safety briefing, they geared up, hooked their carabiners to the cable and began their ascent. Some paths had 200-foot drops. It’s not a race to the top; every movement required focus to safely complete the journey.

Samuel Shadid advances up the via ferrata route at NROCKS. It was an intimidating ascent, but climbing with his troop encouraged him.

“I ignored the height,” says Life Scout Thomas Ye, 16. “I just pretended the ground wasn’t as far as it appeared to be.”

The Scouts had moments to rest and take in beautiful views of the Allegheny Mountains. They even got to cross a suspension bridge that hung 150 feet above the ground. When they reached the top, any nervousness was replaced by a feeling of accomplishment.

Eli Johnson attaches his carabiners to the belay cable. “It was one of the most intense experiences I’ve ever had,” he says of the climb. “It was challenging, but reaching the top made me feel like I could conquer anything.”

“I thought it was really exciting how our troops tried something new and challenging,” says Samuel Shadid, 13, a Second Class Scout. “We do really cool outings, and I think via ferrata was adventurous and challenged people’s fear of heights. Overall, I thought it was really fun.”

"Scouts Tackle ‘Via Ferrata’ Climbing Route in West Virginia" appeared first on Scout Life magazine.

Laugh at 4,000+ more funny jokes at jokes.scoutlife.org!

DOWNLOAD A FREE POCKET JOKE BOOK!

Print and fold your own pocket joke book, filled with great Halloween jokes!
• Download the joke book (PDF)
• Folding instructions

Joe: What do you call wood when it’s scared?
Bob: I don’t know.
Joe: Petrified!
Joke submitted by Daniel B., Lincoln, Neb.
Comic by Daryll Collins

Daniel: What do you do when zombies surround your house?
Sam: What?
Daniel: Hope it’s Halloween.
Joke submitted by Daniel R., Boerne, Texas

Comic by Scott Nickel

Keenan: What happens when a mummy gets a cold?
John: I have no clue.
Keenan: It starts coffin!
Joke submitted by Keenan N., Williamstown, Kentucky

Lucas: Where do the baby ghost go?
Jeff: I’m stumped.
Lucas: Day scare!
Joke submitted by Lucas Z., Evans, Ga.

Comic by Scott Nickel

Ayn: What does a turkey dress up as for Halloween?
Samantha: I don’t know. What?
Ayn: A gobblin’!
Joke submitted by Ayn A., Pittsburgh, Pa.

Michael: What treat do eye doctors give out on Halloween?
Matthew: I don’t know. What?
Michael: Candy corneas.
Joke submitted by Michael and Matthew A., Elba, N.Y.

Comic by Scott Nickel

Jenna: What did the vampire say to the ghost at the Halloween party?
Brenna: What?
Jenna: “Come on! Why don’t you live a little?”
Joke submitted by Jenna C., Columbia, Mo.

Thomas: How do you mend a jack-o’-lantern?
George: I have no clue.
Thomas: With a pumpkin patch.
Joke submitted by Thomas W., Shreveport, La.

Comic by Scott Nickel

Arlene: What kind of dessert do ghosts like?
Alice: What?
Arlene: I scream!
Joke submitted by Arlene A., Selma, Calif.

A photographer goes to a haunted castle determined to get a picture of a ghost on Halloween. The ghost he encounters turns out to be friendly and poses for a snapshot. The happy photographer later downloads his photos and finds that the photos are underexposed and completely blank.

Moral to the story: The spirit is willing, but the flash is weak.
Joke submitted by Jacob S., Lebanon, Ore.

Comic by Scott Nickel

Tanay: Knock, knock.
Dad: Who’s there?
Tanay: Boo.
Dad: Boo, who?
Tanay: Why are you crying?!
Joke submitted by Tanay G., Chantilly, Virginia

Bert: What did the ghost wear to the dance?
Sam: I have no clue.
Bert: Booooots.
Joke submitted by Bert Y., Corpus Christi, Tex.

Comic by Scott Nickel

Danny: Why didn’t the ghost go to the Halloween party?
Cody: I haven’t the foggiest.
Danny: He was afraid he was going to be booed.
Joke submitted by Danny V., Camarillo, Calif.

Brett: What do mummies like listening to on Halloween?
Brent: I don’t know.
Brett: Wrap music!
Joke submitted by Brent J., Upper Arlington, Ohio

Comic by Scott Nickel

Spencer: What plants like Halloween the most?
Tanner: Which ones?
Spencer: Bam-BOO!
Joke submitted by Tanner S., Tampa, Fla.

Micah: What do you get when you drop a pumpkin from your roof?
Cameron: What?
Micah: Squash!
Joke submitted by Micah T., Abbeville, S.C.

Comic by Scott Nickel

Yashaswi: What’s the witch’s best subject?
Amy: I haven’t the foggiest.
Yashaswi: Spelling!
Joke submitted by Yashaswi S., Fredericksburg, Va.

Bill: Why did the policeman ticket the ghost on Halloween?
McKenzie: Why?
Bill: It didn’t have a haunting license.
Joke submitted by Howard H., Newark, Calif.

Comic by Daryll Collins

Sarah: What are a ghost’s favorite rides at the fair?
Brian: Tell me.
Sarah: The scary-go-round and rollerghoster!
Joke submitted by Sarah O., Springfield, Mo.

Barbara: What kind of pants do ghosts wear?
Cindy: I don’t know.
Barbara: Boo jeans!
Joke submitted by Barbara M., Simpsonville, S.C.

Comic by Scott Nickel

Christopher: What did Superman say to Batman when he invited him to the graveyard on Halloween night?
Daniel: I don’t know.
Christopher: “Sorry, I can’t go into the kryptonite.”
Joke submitted by Christopher S., Chesapeake, Va.

Max: What would you find on a haunted beach?
Sam: I’m stumped.
Max: A sand-witch!
Joke submitted by Maxwell C.

Comic by Scott Nickel

John: Why didn’t the skeleton like the Halloween candy?
Mark: Why?
John: He didn’t have the stomach for it!
Joke submitted by John C., Houston, Texas

Aiden: Where do ghosts make their movies?
Bob: I don’t know.
Aiden: At Univer-soul Studios.
Joke submitted by Aiden W., Granite City, Ill.

Comic by Scott Nickel

Erick: Where do ghosts like to swim?
Carl: I don’t know. Tell me.
Erick: The Dead Sea.
Joke submitted by Erick O., National City, Calif.

Sam: What do you call a cleaning skeleton?
Frank: I don’t know.
Sam: The “grim sweeper.”
Joke submitted by Sam M., Pittsburgh, Pa.

Comic by Thomastoons

Chris: What’s worse than being a five-ton witch on Halloween?
Jill: No clue. Hit me with it.
Chris: Being her broom!
Joke submitted by Christian H., Fredericksburg, Va.

Luke: What do you call two witches sharing an apartment?
Jen: I have no clue.
Luke: Broommates!
Joke submitted by Luke B., Kenosha, Wis.

Comic by Scott Nickel

Brenda: Where does Count Dracula usually eat his lunch?
Bianca: Where?
Brenda: At the casketeria.
Joke submitted by Brenda D., Elmira, N.Y.

Daffynition: Pocahontas — A card game that comes back to scare you.
Joke submitted by Omkar S., San Jose, Calif.

Comic by Scott Nickel

Jake: Why couldn’t the ghost see its mom and dad?
Philip: I don’t know.
Jake: Because they were trans-parents!
Joke submitted by Jacob C., O’Fallon, Ill.

Darius: What part of the street do vampires live on?
Chad: I don’t know.
Darius: The dead end.
Joke submitted by Darius C., Columbia, Md.

Comic by Scott Nickel

Brandon: Which ghost is the best dancer?
Nolan: I don’t know.
Brandon: The Boogie Man!
Joke submitted by Chris S., Centennial, Colo.

Everett: What’s a ghoul’s favorite game on Halloween?
Francisco: What?
Everett: Hide-and-ghost-seek.
Joke submitted by Everett C., Tequesta, Fla.

Comic by Scott Nickel

Rich: Why do they put fences around graveyards?
Mitch: Tell me.
Rich: Because people are dying to get in!
Joke submitted by Richard D., Granville, Ohio

Jerry: Why do ghosts like to ride in elevators?
Woody: Why?
Jerry: It raises their spirits.
Joke submitted by Matthew R., Dix Hills, N.Y.

Comic by Scott Nickel

Joshua: What do you get if you cross Bambi with a ghost?
Belia: What?
Joshua: Bamboo.
Joke submitted by Joshua T., Cheltenham, Pa.

Gavin: What do you call a tired skeleton on Halloween?
Connor: Beats me.
Gavin: The “grim sleeper.”
Joke submitted by Gavin H., Stoughton, Mass.

Comic by Thomastoons

Tim: What is a ghost’s favorite dessert?
Tom: What?
Tim: Booberry pie.
Joke submitted by Joshua N., Napoleon, Ohio

Tom: What’s a ghost’s favorite room?
Jerry: I dunno.
Tom: The living room!
Joke submitted by Steven G., Virginia Beach, Va.

Comic by Jon Carter

Kirk: Why do mummies have no friends?
Mike: Why
Kirk: Because they’re too wrapped up in themselves!
Joke submitted by Kirk J., Bothell, Wash.

Tom Swiftie: “That ghost movie was horrible!” Tom booed.
Joke submitted by Zakir G., Los Angeles, Calif.

Comic by Scott Nickel

Aidan: What is a ghost’s favorite Cub Scout event?
Taylor: What?
Aidan: Boo and Gold.
Aidan: What is a witch’s favorite Cub Scout event?
Taylor: I give up.
Aidan: Brew and Gold.
Aidan: What is a werewolf’s favorite Cub Scout event?
Taylor: What?
Aidan: Pack meetings, of course!
Joke submitted by Aidan T., Mount Airy, Md.

Stephen: What did the ghost say when the skeleton lied to him?
David: I haven’t a clue.
Stephen: “I can see right through you.”
Joke submitted by Stephen S., Knoxville, Tenn.

Comic by Scott Nickel

A book never written: “Ghost Hunting” by E. Gadd.
Joke submitted by Jet S., Ooltewah, Tenn.

Jess: Why don’t ghosts like rain on Halloween?
Thomas: Why?
Jess:  It dampens their spirits!
Joke submitted by Jess W., Spartanburg, S.C.

Comic by Scott Nickel

Race: What is a goblin’s favorite cheese?
Nathan: What is it?
Race: Monster-ella!
Joke submitted by Daniel B., Tyler, Tex.

Joker: Why did the monster’s mother knit him three socks for Halloween?
Harvey: I have no clue.
Joker: She heard he grew another foot!
Joke submitted by Matthew C., Gladstone, Mo.

Comic by Scott Nickel

Two monsters went to a Halloween party. Suddenly one said to the other, “A lady just rolled her eyes at me. What should I do?”
“Be a gentleman and roll them back to her.”
Joke submitted by Billy J., Hershey, Pa.

Sam: What is Dracula’s favorite circus act?
Ethan: Tell me.
Sam: He always goes for the juggler!
Joke submitted by Sam C., San Antonio, Tex.

Comic by Scott Nickel

Steve: What do you get when you divide your jack-o’-lantern’s circumference by its diameter?
Paul: What?
Steve: Pumpkin-pi!
Joke submitted by Steve H., Sagamore Hills, Ohio

Dale: What do you do if you want to learn more about Dracula?
Gayle: You join his fang club.
Joke submitted by Dale K., Somerset, Pa.

Comic by ThomasToons

Bill: What can you say about a horrible mummy joke?
Bob: What?
Bill: It Sphinx!
Joke submitted by Eric H., San Diego, Calif.

Chris: What’s a vampire’s favorite fruit?
Taylor: I have no idea.
Chris: A necktarine!
Joke submitted by Christopher F., Wildwood, Mo.

Comic by Scott Nickel

Gracie: Why do vampires need mouthwash?
Selena: Why?
Gracie: Because they have bat breath.
Joke submitted by Gracie Y., Los Gatos, Calif.

A book never written: “Did a Vampire Bite Me?” by Chick Yerneck.
Joke submitted by Coleton M., Cary, N.C.

Comic by Scott Masear

Bruce: What is a vampire’s favorite dance?
Kevin: I don’t know. What?
Bruce: The Fang-Dango.
Joke submitted by Zac D., Danville, Calif.

Trent: Why are vampires so easy to fool?
Brent: Why?
Trent: Because they’re suckers.
Joke submitted by Trenton G., Shaftsbury, Vt.

Comic by Scott Nickel

Eddie: What do you call a vampire that lives in a kitchen?
Red: What?
Eddie: Count Spatula.
Joke submitted by Sam M., Greensboro, N.C.

Todd: What is a skeleton’s favorite instrument?
Leanne: What?
Todd: The xylabone.
Joke submitted by Todd F., Indianapolis, Ind.

Ben: What do you call a kind and considerate monster?
Jonathan: What?
Ben: A complete failure.
Joke submitted by Benjamin M., Rancho Cordova, Calif.
Comic by Daryll Collins

A book never written: “All That’s Left of Me” by Myra Maines.
Joke submitted by Kieran F., Emporia, Kan.

Comic by Scott Nickel

Tim: What would you get if you crossed a vampire and a teacher?
Tom: What?
Tim: Lots of blood tests!
Joke submitted by Tim T., Whitehall, N.Y.

Mackenna: Where is a ghost’s favorite place to sit in a restaurant?
Grayson: I don’t know. Where?
Mackenna: A boo-th!
Joke submitted by Mackenna D., Hampstead, North Carolina

Comic by Scott Nickel

Daffynition: Retreat — To get another piece of candy on Halloween.
Joke submitted by Anthony P., Watkinsville, Ga.

Tom Swiftie: “I’m not eating too much candy,” Tom said sweetly.
Joke submitted by Kevin A., St. Louis, Mo.

Comic by Scott Nickel

Pam: What kind of phone do witches use?
Sam: What kind?
Pam: A touch-toad phone.
Joke submitted by Pam A., Wasilla, Alaska

Cresencio: What was the witch’s favorite subject in school?
Chris: What?
Cresencio: Spelling.
Joke submitted by Cresencio A., Norwalk, Calif.

Comic by Van Scott

Henry: What do you call a wolf that notices everything?
Mike: What?
Henry: Awarewolf.
Joke submitted by Henry N., Austin, Texas

Elizabeth: What is Dracula’s favorite sport?
Christian: What?
Elizabeth: Bat-minton!
Joke submitted by Elizabeth J., Sugar Land, Texas

Comic by Scott Nickel

Rhett: Why don’t skeletons play music in church?
Hank: No clue.
Rhett: Because they don’t have any organs.
Joke submitted by Rhett A., Louisa, Virginia

Jayden: What is a panda’s favorite Halloween food?
Cayden: What?
Jayden: Bam-BOO!
Joke submitted by Jayden V., Westerly, Rhode Island

Comic by Scott Nickel

Alex: Where do monsters get tattoos?
Liz: Where?
Alex: At Monsters Ink!
Joke submitted by Alex Y., Spring Grove, Illinois

DOWNLOAD A FREE POCKET JOKE BOOK!

Print and fold your own pocket joke book, filled with great Halloween jokes!
• Download the joke book (PDF)
• Folding instructions

Do you know a funny Halloween joke? Click here to send us your jokes.

Laugh at 4,000+ more funny jokes at jokes.scoutlife.org!

"101 Funny Halloween Jokes and Comics" appeared first on Scout Life magazine.

Capture the flag is a fun camp game that’s all about teamwork. The goal is to find the other team’s flag and bring it back to your side without being tagged.

WHAT YOU’LL NEED

• Any large outdoor area
• 10 or more people
• Two brightly colored “flags.” These can be almost anything — a neckerchief, Frisbee or ball, for example.
• Rope to divide the playing field
• Hula-Hoop, cones, rope or some other markers for “jail” areas

Safety First: Clear the playing area of any dangerous obstacles or hazards. Have one person act as the “judge” to ensure everyone plays by the rules. Play when there is plenty of daylight.

SETTING UP A CAPTURE THE FLAG GAME

1. Split into two teams.

2. Prepare the playing area. Almost any large outdoor space will work. Be sure there are plenty of obstacles (trees, rocks, bushes) where the flags can be hidden. Divide the field into two zones (like a football or soccer field), separating the sides with a center line. Each side should also feature a “jail” for players who are tagged. A Hula-Hoop, cones or rope can be used to designate these spots.

3. Give each team a “flag.” Any bright object (T-shirts, balls, bandannas) will work.

4. Each team hides its flag somewhere on its side of the field.

HOW TO PLAY CAPTURE THE FLAG

1. The goal of the game is for each team to capture the other team’s flag and take it back to its zone.

2. Pick positions for your team’s players. Some players should try to capture the other team’s flag. Other players should guard your team’s flag.

3. If members of the other team enter your team’s zone, you can send them to “jail” by tagging them. Players can be freed from jail when a teammate touches them.

4. A team wins by capturing the other team’s flag and taking it back to its zone.

MAKE IT YOUR OWN

Improvise your own rules:

• Can a player free everyone from jail at once or only one at a time?
• Can a flag be completely hidden or does it need to be visible?
• Can flags be moved mid-game?
• Try using a flying disc or ball as the flag. That way, it can be passed to teammates easily.
• Will you play with more than one flag per team?
• Can a team take back its flag from the other team before players cross back to their zone? How?

"How to Play Capture the Flag" appeared first on Scout Life magazine.

Your mateys will yo ho ho with these funny pirate jokes sent in by Scout Life readers. Do you know a funny joke? Click here to send it to us.

Pat: What’s the difference between a pirate and a cranberry farmer?
Jerry: I don’t know. What?
Pat: A pirate buries his treasure, but a cranberry farmer treasures his berries.

Submitted by Patricia J., Warrens, Wis.

A pirate and a sailor were exchanging stories. The sailor pointed to the pirate’s peg leg and asked, “How did you get that?”

The pirate said, “Aye, I wrestled a shark and lost me leg.”

The sailor pointed to the pirate’s hook and asked, “How did you get that?”

The pirate said: “Aye, I fought Red Beard’s crew and lost me hand.”

The sailor pointed to the pirate’s eye patch and asked, “How did you get that?”

The pirate said, “Aye, a bird came by and left droppings in me eye.”

The sailor said, “That’s not as impressive as the other two. …”

“Aye,” the pirate answered. “It was me first day with the hook.”

Submitted by Gregory W., Newark, N.Y.

Comic by Scott Masear

Tyler: How much does it cost for a pirate to get his ears pierced?
Ryan: A buccaneer.

Submitted by Tyler S., Pleasant Grove, Utah

A book never written: “How to Be a Pirate” by Rob N. Plunder.

Submitted by Austin H., Scappoose, Ore.

A book never written: “Pirate Gold” by Barry D. Treasure.

Submitted by Anthony P., Watkinsville, Ga.

Comic by Jon Carter

Jim: Why can’t pirates learn the alphabet?
Bo: I haven’t a clue.
Jim: Because they spend years at “C”!

Submitted by Sailesh K., Bernardsville, N.J.

A book never written: Pirate Treasure” by Barry Moore.

Submitted by Caleb C., Hermitage, Tenn.

Liam: How much does it cost to buy corn from a pirate?
Chris: How much?
Liam: A buccaneer.

Submitted by Liam F., Williamsport, Penn.

Comic by Jon Carter

Max: What did one pirate say to the other?
Ben: What?
Max: “I sea you!”

Submitted by Maximillian M., Amery, Wis.

Robert: Why couldn’t the pirate crew play cards?
Patrick: Beats me.
Robert: Because the captain was standing on the deck!

Submitted by Patrick D., San Francisco, Calif.

Nathaniel: What’s a pirate’s favorite letter?
Seth: R? I mean, Arrrrr!
Nathaniel: No. It be the C!

Submitted by Nathaniel W., Camarillo, Calif.

Comic by Jon Carter

A cruise ship passes by a remote island, and all the passengers see a bearded man with an eyepatch running around and waving his arms wildly.

“Captain,” one passenger asks, “who is that man over there?”

“I have no idea,” the captain says, “but he goes nuts every year when we pass him.”

Submitted by Kyoji M., Cheswick, Pa.

Julian: Why do pirates have a longer alphabet than we do?
Kyle: I’m stumped.
Julian: Because they have seven C’s!

Submitted by Julian D., Philadelphia, Penn.

Do you know some funny pirate jokes? Send it to us!

"17 Funny Pirate Jokes and Comics" appeared first on Scout Life magazine.

Need knee-slapping funny campfire skits? Skip the invisible bench, and try some of these entertaining ideas.

Whether you’re at summer camp, a pack meeting or a weekend camporee, these funny campfire skits are easy to perform and also totally Scout-appropriate — so no worries about making things awkward. From slapstick comedy to clever wordplay, these easy skits will bring the fun without crossing any lines, making them perfect for a night of entertainment around the campfire.

1. CAN’T WORK IN THE DARK

SETTING: Outdoors, with four or more people pretending to rake leaves or dig with shovels. One person stands in the middle, pretending to be a light bulb with their arm raised straight up.
CHARACTERS NEEDED: Boss, light bulb person, three or more workers
PROPS NEEDED: Rakes, shovels (optional)

SKIT:

Boss enters, looks around and focuses on the Lightbulb Scout who is standing still with arms raised.

Boss (sternly): “Hey! I’m paying you to work, not to just stand there. Why aren’t you working?”

Light bulb person (proudly, without moving): “I’m a light bulb!”

Boss (annoyed): “A light bulb? I don’t need a light bulb standing around. Get to work! If you’re still here when I come back, you’re fired!”

Boss exits. Light bulb person remains, arm raised, while the others continue to rake and dig.

Boss re-enters, spots the light bulb person.

Boss (angrily): “Still not working? You’re fired! Get out!”

Light bulb person lowers their arm and walks off stage. The other workers stop working, confused.

Boss: “Why did you guys stop working? Get back to work!”

Worker: “How? We can’t work in the dark!”

The workers exit, leaving Boss alone, groaning in frustration.

2. THE INFANTRY IS COMING!

SETTING: Open stage space. The people will run in from offstage.
CHARACTERS NEEDED: Four people, sapling holder
PROPS NEEDED: Small sapling or branch

SKIT:

Person 1 (panicked): “The infantry is coming! Head for the bomb shelters!” (runs off)

Person 2 (shouting): “The infantry is coming! Save yourselves!” (runs off)

Person 3 (excited): “The infantry is coming! We should help them!” (runs off)

Person 4 (calmly): “The infantry is coming! Let’s go watch the tanks!” (walks off)

Person with sapling slowly enters, holding the tree.

Sapling holder (proudly): “And here it is … the infant tree!” (holds up the sapling)

3. ICE FISHING SKIT

SETTING: Outdoors, with “fishermen” slipping and sliding like they are on a frozen lake
CHARACTERS NEEDED: Three people, loud off-stage voice
PROPS NEEDED: Imaginary ice drill, fishing rods

SKIT:

Person 1: “We’re ice fishermen! We’re catching dinner tonight!”

The fishermen pretend to drill a hole in the ice, and they begin fishing in silence.

Off-stage voice booms: “THERE ARE NO FISH THERE!”

They jump, confused.

Person 2: “Let’s try over there.”

They move, drill a new hole and start fishing again.

Off-stage voice: “THERE ARE NO FISH THERE!”

They jump in confusion again.

Person 3: “Let’s try one more spot.”

They move, drill a hole and fish.

Off-stage voice: “LISTEN! I’M THE ICE RINK MANAGER. THERE ARE NO FISH HERE!”

They freeze, look around realizing their mistake and run off stage.

4. THE AMAZING BRUCE, OLYMPIC BLANKET FLYER

SETTING: Open space, with people in a circle pretending to hold an invisible blanket
CHARACTERS NEEDED: Leader, six blanket holders
PROPS NEEDED: None (invisible props)

SKIT:

Leader: “We are the world-renowned Olympic Blanket Flying Team here to perform a campfire skit! And here’s Bruce, our star bouncer!”

They pretend to toss invisible Bruce lightly into the air. The blanket holders’ eyes appear to track him as he goes up and then back down.

Leader: “Alright, higher! One, two, THREE!”

The leader repeats this a few times, with the blanket holders appearing to throw Bruce higher each time. Finally, the leader pauses and pretends to be listening to Bruce saying something.

Leader: “Ladies and gentleman, Bruce wants to go for the world record! Let’s hear it for Bruce!”

The leader encourages the audience to clap and cheer. On the count of three, the blanket holders pretend to throw Bruce really high in the sky. The blanket holders point above the trees as if they’re tracking him, pretending to eventually lose sight of him.

Leader (shrugs): “Oh well, he’ll come down eventually.”

The leader and blanket holders exit the stage, leaving the audience hanging. Later in the campfire program, after a few additional skits or songs, the leader rushes back on to the stage.

Leader (shouting): “BRUCE! He’s coming back! Everybody get ready!”

The blanket holders rush to form a circle with their pretend blanket and “catch” Bruce. Everyone celebrates as the audience cheers.

5. CLEAN SOCKS SKIT

SETTING: A quartermaster is standing with a pile of socks on stage
CHARACTERS NEEDED: Quartermaster, four Scouts
PROPS NEEDED: A pile of socks

SKIT:

Quartermaster: “Hey, everybody, the new Scout socks have arrived! Come and get them!”

The other Scouts run onto the stage and form a line to get their socks.

Quartermaster: “Alright, how many socks do you need?”

Scout 1: “I need two pairs. I wear one all week while the other is in the hamper.”

Quartermaster (cringing): “Yuck! Oh well, here you go.”

The Scout gets two pairs of socks and walks away. The next Scout steps up to the quartermaster.

Quartermaster: “How many do you need?”

Scout 2: “Four pairs. I change them every Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Sunday.”

Quartermaster (relieved): “Well, that’s better than wearing one pair all week. Here you go. Next!”

Scout 3: “I need seven pairs.”

Quartermaster (impressed): “Seven? I bet that’s a fresh pair every day, right?”

Scout 3: “You got it!

Quartermaster: “That’s what I like to hear. A clean Scout! Who’s next?”

The final Scout steps forward with a confident smile.

Quartermaster: “And how many socks do YOU need?”

Scout 4: “Twelve pairs, please!”

Quartermaster (surprised): “Twelve, wow! You must really like to keep clean. Why twelve pairs?”

Scout 4: “Well, there’s January, February, March, April, May…”

All Scouts groan as the quartermaster hands over socks.

Looking to write your own funny campfire skits? Get ideas from the Scout Life Think & Grin website with more than 4,000 kid-approved jokes.

6. IS IT TIME YET?

SETTING: People standing or sitting in a line with awkwardly crossed arms and legs
CHARACTERS NEEDED: Several people
PROPS NEEDED: None

SKIT:

Person 1: “Is it time yet?”

Person 2: “Is it time yet?”

Person 3: “Is it time yet?”

The question moves down the line, with each person repeating the question until it reaches the last person.

Last person (loudly): “No!”

The answer passes back up the line from the last person to the first person, with each person repeating “no.” After a few seconds, they repeat the process. Each person asks the question again, and the last person replies “no.” The answer again passes back up the line to the first person.

Finally, after a long pause:

First person (urgently): “IS IT TIME YET?”

The question moves down the line for a third time, with each person repeating the question until it reaches the last person.

Last person: “YES!”

The word gets passed back up the line quickly, and then all the people simultaneously uncross their legs and arms and cross them the other way.

7. BROKEN FINGER SKIT

SETTING: Two Scouts are onstage
CHARACTERS NEEDED: Two Scouts
PROPS NEEDED: None

SKIT:

Scout 1: “Hey, you’re good with first aid. I really need your help.”

Scout 2: “What’s wrong?”

Scout 1: “When I touch my forehead, it really hurts.”

Scout 1 demonstrates by touching their forehead and wincing in pain.

Scout 1: “And when I press on my jaw, it’s also painful.”

Scout 1 touches their jaw and cries out in pain.

Scout 2: “That sounds like something is really wrong. Does anything else hurt?”

Scout 1: “Yeah, when I push on my stomach, it hurts so bad I almost cry.”

Scout 1 pushes on their stomach and looks like they are in agony.

Scout 2: “Let me take a look.”

Scout 2 examines Scout 1, listens to the heart, looks in the ear and has them open their mouth. Scout 2 looks very concerned.

Scout 2: “Well, I don’t know … this seems serious. You better see a doctor.”

Scout 1 nods and staggers offstage.

After a brief pause, Scout 1 returns looking relieved.

Scout 2: “So what did the doctor say? What’s wrong with you?”

Scout 1: “The doctor says … I have a broken finger!”

Scout 2 shakes their head as they both exit.

8. SECOND LANGUAGE

SETTING: A group of people standing together. One is wearing a sign that says “Mother Mouse,” and the others are wearing signs that say “Mouse Children.”
CHARACTERS NEEDED: Cat, Mother Mouse, several Mouse Children
PROPS NEEDED: Signs labeled “Mother Mouse,” “Cat” and “Mouse Children”

SKIT:

Scene begins with Mother Mouse leading her Mouse Children on a walk. A cat enters suddenly, blocking their path. The Mouse Children freeze in fear.

Cat (threatening): “I’m going to eat you!”

Mother Mouse (in a loud voice): “Bowwow! Bowwow! Bark! Ruff! Arf arf arf! Woof!”

Cat reacts with shock and fear. It quickly backs up and runs away.

Mouse Children (in unison): “Mom, we were so scared! You saved us!”

Mother Mouse: “That’s why it pays to learn a second language!”

9. THE VIPER IS COMING!

SETTING: This funny campfire skit only needs some open space
CHARACTERS NEEDED: Four people, Viper
PROP NEEDED: Napkin or rag

SKIT:

One by one, the people rush in, warning about the Viper.

Person 1: “The Viper is coming!”

Person 2: “Here comes the Viper! Call for help!”

Person 3: “Watch out! The Viper is on its way!”

Person 4: “The Viper is almost here! Save yourselves!”

Finally, the Viper enters, calm and casual, holding the rag.

Viper: “Hello! I’m the Viper! Vere’s the vindows? I’ve come to vipe them clean!”

10. THE LOST QUARTER

SETTING: A streetlamp onstage. One person can pretend to be the streetlamp by standing with their arm up holding a flashlight. Another person is obviously searching for something under the lamp.
CHARACTERS NEEDED: Four people, streetlamp person
PROPS NEEDED: Flashlight

SKIT:

Person 1 is searching the ground under the “streetlamp.” After a few moments, Person 2 and 3 join in the search. Person 4 then approaches the group.

Person 4: “Hey, what are you looking for?”

Person 1: “A coin that I lost.”

Person 2: “He lost a quarter.”

Person 4: “Ok, I’ll help.”

Person 4 kneels down and helps search for the quarter. Everyone is searching the same spot of ground.

Person 4 (after a few moments of searching): “Where exactly did you lose the quarter?”

Person 1 (pointing far away): “Way over there.”

Person 4 (confused): “Then why are you looking here?”

Person 1 (with confidence): “Because the light is better over here!”

The group stops, groans in realization and exits the stage shaking their heads.

Do you have a favorite funny campfire skit? Tell us about it in the comments!

"10 Funny Campfire Skits" appeared first on Scout Life magazine.

What’s going on in this picture? What is that turtle, frog and snail doing or thinking?

If you can think of a funny caption for this photo, just post it in the comment form at the bottom of this page. After we approve it, your funny caption will be on this page for everyone to read.

Click here to write captions for more funny photos.

"Write a Funny Caption For This Photo" appeared first on Scout Life magazine.

Here’s what you’ll find inside the October 2024 issue of Scout Life magazine. Remember, many articles are only available to subscribers and are not available online.

Please visit scoutlife.org/subscribe to subscribe to the print or digital editions of Scout Life magazine.

OCTOBER 2024 FEATURES

CANOEING IN THE CONGAREE

When they encountered obstacles on the water, these Scouts didn’t back down.

• Troop 8 Paddles the Enchanting and Challenging Congaree

THEY’RE SUPER!

These high-performance cars really get up and go.

• They’re Super! These 4 Supercars Show Off Power and Style

FICTION: JASON AND THE ARGONAUTS

This tale features a lost sandal, a really cool boat, a wildly talented group of Greek heroes and weird agricultural requests.

• Read Jason and the Argonauts by Kenny Curtis and Jillian Hughes

SCOUTING AROUND: WHAT WOULD YOU DO?

Sometimes it can be difficult to know exactly what to do. At other times, the answer is clear.

• Visit the Scouting Around blog

SL HOW TO MAKE IT: STAINED-GLASS PUMPKIN

Spice up your fall decor with this fun project.

• How to Make a Faux Stained-Glass Pumpkin

AND MORE!

Look for the regular score of comics, jokes, games, Scouts in Action and more! Only in the October 2024 issue of Scout Life!

• Wacky Adventures @Scout Life
• Pee Wee Harris
• Scouts in Action
• More S.I.A.

"Inside the October 2024 Issue" appeared first on Scout Life magazine.

Cooking with a camping stove offers many advantages: They’re reliable, convenient and allow you to be more self-sufficient. Camping stoves use different types of fuel. Propane is the most popular, but other stoves use fuels like white gas and denatured alcohol. Scouting America recommends you do not use liquid alcohol fuels, including isopropyl alcohol, denatured ethyl alcohol and ethanol.

Camping stoves can come as small single-burners, perfect for a backpacking trek, or large double-burner setups, which work best when car camping. Consider how you’ll use your stove before buying.

CAMPING STOVE SAFETY RULES

When using a camping stove, follow these safety rules:

• Always read the manufacturer’s instructions before using a stove, and be sure to follow them. Use only fuels that are in accordance with the instructions, and do not modify the equipment beyond its design limitations.

• Never use a stove inside or near a tent or under a dining fly.

• Don’t overload the stove, and never leave a stove unattended.

• Let the stove cool completely before changing fuel canisters or putting it away.

• Keep all propane canisters away from sources of heat, even if they are empty.

• When changing canisters, or if you suspect a problem, test for fuel leakage by using a solution of 1 tablespoon of dish soap mixed with 1 cup of water. Lightly sprinkle the soap-water solution over the connection and fittings between the propane canister or tank and the stove. If you see bubbles from any connection, turn off and disconnect the propane canister or tank and reconnect properly.

"How to Safely Use a Camping Stove" appeared first on Scout Life magazine.

Downtime at camp can turn really fun when you toss in a ball. Playing catch also builds your hand-eye coordination. You can use a squishy ball, tennis ball, football or baseball.

For a hard ball, like a baseball, you’ll want to grab a glove. Baseball gloves come in different styles and sizes, depending on the position they’re designed for.

HOW TO THROW A BALL OVERHAND

To throw a ball overhand, grip it loosely in your throwing hand and turn sideways with your feet shoulder-width apart. Face your target and bring the ball behind your head. Point to your target with your free hand and throw the ball, leaning forward with your arm following through and not stopping when you release the ball.

To increase your accuracy, use a four-seam grip with your index and middle fingers on top, your thumb underneath and your other fingers tucked to the side. Throwing a baseball with this grip creates backspin, steadying the ball’s flight path.

HOW TO CATCH A BALL

Catching a ball requires you to watch it all the way to your hand. If you’re bare-handed, reach out with both hands to catch. If you’re using a baseball glove, catch the ball in the glove’s pocket.

HOW TO THROW A FOOTBALL

To toss a football, grip it with the laces on top and some of your fingers touching the laces. Lift the ball above your shoulder and move it behind your head. Pull it forward as you take a step, flicking your wrist as you release the ball. Follow through in your throwing motion.

"How to Throw a Ball" appeared first on Scout Life magazine.

There’s nothing like a bag of trail mix on a hiking or backpacking trip. Originally called GORP, for “Good Old Raisins and Peanuts,” this mix of dried fruit, nuts, chocolate and other dry ingredients can be a good energy source on the trail.

Almost any ingredients can go into a trail mix, but many people try to find a good balance between sweet and salty items. Here are 40 tasty trail mix ingredients that you might want to try. Mix and match them to create your own perfect trail snack.

NUTS, SEEDS AND LEGUMES

Loaded with protein and fiber, nuts and seeds also pack plenty of vitamins, minerals and other nutritional benefits. Some experts say that 50 percent of your trail mix should be made up of these ingredients, but be aware of allergies.

• Peanuts
• Cashews
• Pecans
• Almonds
• Sunflower seeds
• Pumpkin seeds
• Walnuts
• Pistachios
• Sesame seeds
• Flax

DRIED FRUITS

Dried fruits don’t spoil as fast as fresh fruit and won’t moisten the other trail mix ingredients. In moderation, these sugary treats can be a great source of fiber, calcium and vitamins.

• Raisins
• Banana chips
• Dried cranberries
• Dried apricots
• Dried apples
• Candied orange peel
• Dried blueberries
• Coconut
• Dried cherries

CHOCOLATE AND SWEET STUFF

Add in your favorite sweet treat to round out the trail mix. Just be sure to use sparingly. Be careful in warmer climates, because chocolate can melt and make a big mess.

• Chocolate chips
• White chocolate chips
• M&Ms
• Reese’s Pieces
• Sweetened coconut
• Peanut butter chips
• Marshmallows

CEREALS AND GRAINS

These crunchy carbohydrates boost energy levels and leave you feeling full. Everyone loves the satisfying texture of these trail mix ingredients.

• Granola
• Chex cereals
• Popcorn
• Pretzels
• Unsweetened cereal, like Cheerios
• Sweetened cereal, like Fruit Loops
• Cheetos
• Wasabi peas

SPICES

Lightly sprinkle your trail mix with one or more of these spices for extra flavor. But be careful, a little goes a long way.

• Salt
• Cinnamon
• Cayenne pepper
• Garlic powder
• Onion powder
• Curry powder
• Chili powder

What do you put in your trail mix? Tell us your secret ingredients in the comments!

"Try 40 Trail Mix Ingredients That Go Beyond GORP" appeared first on Scout Life magazine.

Spice up your fall decor with a super fun and easy faux stained-glass craft! Follow our simple step-by-step guide to make a cool pumpkin design, or choose from other awesome Halloween-themed templates like ghosts, bats, and candy.

This project is perfect for kids and teens who love to get creative — no special skills needed! You’ll have a blast making your own spooky artwork to bring some Halloween vibes to your space this fall.

WHAT YOU’LL NEED

• Acrylic paint (black and other colors of your choosing)
• Aluminum foil
• Black permanent marker
• Bottle of clear glue
• Bottle of white glue
• Cup of water
• Glass or plastic picture frame
• Paintbrushes
• Paper plate
• Paper towel
• Design template
• Rubbing alcohol
• Toothpick
• Ruler
• Gloves

WHAT YOU’LL DO TO MAKE FAUX STAINED GLASS

STEP 1: Download and print out one of the templates below. You can also sketch out your own design on a piece of white paper, but make sure the paper is the same size as the glass.

STEP 2: While wearing gloves for safety, remove the glass from the frame and clean it using a paper towel and rubbing alcohol. Tape your design to the back of the glass. Trace the pumpkin onto the glass using a black permanent marker. Using the ruler, draw lines around the pumpkin to fill in the open space. Set aside.

STEP 3: Make the colors for your design. Mix a few drops of clear glue and your choice of acrylic paint onto a paper plate. Repeat this step for each color you use. The same plate can be used for multiple colors. Be sure to mix enough for each shape that you want to fill with that color.

STEP 4: Fill in your design using your paintbrushes. Optional: You can either remove the template from underneath your glass or leave it in place while you paint.

STEP 5: Add a few drops of black acrylic paint to the bottle of white glue. You might have to empty a small amount of glue into another container to make room for the paint. Close the bottle and shake it until the glue is completely black.

STEP 6: Trace over your design using the black glue mixture. Try to keep your hand as steady as possible. Use a toothpick to clean up your lines and to pop any air bubbles. If you make a mistake, wipe the area using the rubbing alcohol and a paper towel and simply repaint it. Let it dry overnight.

STEP 7: After your design is completely dry, put the glass back into the frame. Next, place a piece of crinkled foil (that fills the frame) behind the glass to give the design a stained-glass look. Put the frame backing in place and display your masterpiece for everyone to see.

PHOTOS OF COMPLETED PROJECT

Check out these photos of completed faux stained-glass art. If you have a photos of a SL Workshop project, please use the form below to send them to us.

"How to Make a Faux Stained-Glass Pumpkin" appeared first on Scout Life magazine.

A sports car is an exciting, fast car that offers more speed and performance than a regular car. So what’s a supercar? Think higher performance: more horsepower often exceeding 500 hp, higher top speeds usually reaching more than 200 mph and faster acceleration times. When carmakers push supercars to their limits, that’s when they earn the label of “hypercar.” Hypercars usually are reserved for the racetrack.

Here are four high-performance supercars that really get up and go!

BUGATTI W16 MISTRAL

HORSEPOWER: 1,600 hp
TOP SPEED: 261 mph
PRICE: $5 million

The W16 Mistral’s large grill does more than look cool; it allows airflow into the powerful engine to keep it cool and running efficiently. This car’s quad-turbo 16-cylinder engine offers incredible performance. This type of engine has been used in previous Bugatti models, launching those vehicles to reach more than 300 mph. A roadster is open-air, so it can’t go as fast as a coupe, but at 261 mph, the W16 Mistral still ranks as one of the world’s fastest roadsters.

LAMBORGHINI REVUELTO

HORSEPOWER: 1,015 hp
TOP SPEED: 217 mph
PRICE: $605,000

With its V12 combustion engine and three electric motors, the plug-in hybrid Revuelto can switch from fully electric driving to revving up to go from zero to 62 in 2.5 seconds. The vehicle’s aerodynamics, including a shark nose, side fins and back wing, help make the car super efficient. The interior features three digital displays that can be swiped for info, and there are 13 different drive modes easily controlled with dials on the steering wheel.

MCLAREN ARTURA SPIDER

HORSEPOWER: 690 hp
TOP SPEED: 205 mph
PRICE: $273,800

Not all cars are designed to do a burnout, but the Artura Spider is. With its Spinning Wheel Pull-Away mode, you can spin the tires, churning out an impressive cloud of white smoke before you take off. And the Artura Spider can really take off: zero to 62 mph in 3 seconds. While you’re moving, press a button and the hardtop retracts in 11 seconds, transforming the vehicle into an open-air roadster. The windshield is designed to redirect wind for a calmer cabin so you can fully enjoy the audio speaker system, even with the top down.

ASTON MARTIN VALHALLA

HORSEPOWER: 998 hp
TOP SPEED: 217 mph
PRICE: $800,000

Sleek and stylish, the Valhalla is Aston Martin’s first hybrid supercar and a bridge to the carmaker’s goal of building electric supercars. The hybrid twin-turbo V8 engine generates enough power to unleash the car from zero to 62 mph in 2.5 seconds. Using Formula 1 engineering, the Valhalla’s aerodynamics and design help create 600 kg of downforce, which helps the vehicle pick up speed around turns. Inside, the driving experience is like Aston Martin’s Formula 1 race car with its raised floor and driver seat’s reclined positioning.

Arrive Alive

Carmakers like to boast about their cars’ top speeds. That’s all for show (and for race car drivers). Speed limits are posted on every road for a reason. Safe drivers know that speed can kill.

"They’re Super! These 4 Supercars Show Off Power and Style" appeared first on Scout Life magazine.

As Wyatt Pockl and Jackson McMichael paddled along a creek in Congaree National Park, they ducked under low-hanging tree branches. They could lift some branches out of the way, but that presented a risk.

After moving one, a footlong snake dropped out of the tree and landed on Wyatt’s knee.

“I thought he was going to jump out of the canoe,” Jackson recalls.

“I wasn’t — there were more snakes in the water!” Wyatt says.

Dodging nonvenomous water snakes wasn’t the only challenge Troop 8 of Columbia, South Carolina, faced during its weekend canoe trip this past April. But despite the challenges, the guys learned a lot and had fun in a beautiful park.

Top left: The troop saw a lot of wildlife in Congaree National Park, including this brown water snake. Bottom left: Seth Perry, left, and Evan Livengood prepare to launch their canoe. Right: Everett Schaller paddles.

TOTALLY SWAMPED IN CONGAREE

Congaree National Park in South Carolina features more than 26,000 acres, mainly of bottomland forest. These forests grow in places that flood often, creating boggy, shady environments ideal for many animals. Congaree attracts deer, foxes, beavers, alligators, amphibians and birds.

It also attracts adventurers who love to fish, hike and canoe. Troop 8 had been to the park before — it’s the largest old-growth bottomland forest in the Southeast U.S., with some trees growing 170 feet tall. And it’s only a one-hour drive from where the troop meets.

Josh Putnal paddles at the bow of his canoe while Scoutmaster Kirby Shealy handles steering from the stern. Behind them is adult leader Jeff Pockl.

“It’s an amazing place,” says Jackson, 14, a Star Scout. “There’s all sorts of greenery.”

This time, the troop would canoe a little over 6 1/2 miles. The plan could’ve changed quickly based on the river levels. On average, Congaree floods 10 times a year, submerging many of the park’s trails.

The troop’s leaders would need to watch the weather closely both before and during the campout.

ON THE WATER

After reviewing safety rules and properly putting on their life jackets, the Scouts launched their canoes. Where you sit determines your role: Most of the steering is done from the back (or stern) of the boat while the pace is set in the front (or bow).

“I could be a lot faster with the paddle when I’m up front,” says Noah Putnal, 12, a Tenderfoot Scout.

Seth Perry, Everett Schaller, Jackson McMichael and Evan Livengood steer their canoes through Congaree National Park.

When you’re tandem canoeing, you have to work together. If you’re both paddling on the same side of the boat, you won’t travel straight. Communication is key, so you can move effectively and in unison.

“I like being in the front because it’s where the power of the boat is,” says Everett Schaller, 12, a Tenderfoot Scout. “We learned the J-stroke and the draw stroke.”

Jackson McMichael and Wyatt Pockl carry their canoe.

Knowing different strokes makes it easier to maneuver, and the guys had to figure out how to move in the narrow creek with overhanging branches and clogged pathways. Sometimes, they had to slow down when approaching piles of wooden debris.

“It took us 10 minutes to get through like 5 feet of that,” says Wyatt, 13, a First Class Scout. “It was like a knife through ice. We powered through, but it was hard.”

Everett Schaller, left, and Seth Perry cruise underneath a tree.

They didn’t give up. When a nonvenomous snake fell in one of the canoes, they simply paddled to shore to let the slithering reptile out. When downed logs blocked the path, the guys hopped out and carried their canoes (called “portaging”).

“We were able to keep going, no matter what was in our path,” Jackson says. “We never said, ‘Stop — we don’t want to do this anymore.’ A Scout never quits on his dreams.”

The guys were rewarded later as the creek widened and fewer obstacles littered the water. They could paddle more freely and quickly, even taking off for a fun race.

Noah Putnal, right, guides his canoe with adult leader Adam Fenton.

WORK LIKE A TEAM

The Scout motto is “Be Prepared.” Monitoring the weather, the troop knew it was supposed to rain before they left. To make packing up easier, they started that evening after dinner instead of waiting until morning and packing in the rain. It was a great idea, but like paddling, you need to work as a team so the task goes smoothly.

Some Scouts tried carrying heavy equipment back to the troop trailer by themselves. Struggling with the gear quickly became frustrating, and they soon learned a lesson.

Jackson McMichael and Evan Livengood navigate their canoe across the calm waters of Cedar Creek. Behind them, at left, are Everett Schaller and Seth Perry.

“Many hands make light work,” Wyatt says.

It’s OK to ask for help, even when you’re a leader. A troop is a team, and everyone can contribute to solving problems and completing tasks. When you work together, you can all Be Prepared.

Jackson McMichael, center, helps adult leaders Adam Schor and Craig Perry take the canoes out of the creek. Right: Wyatt Pockl works on lighting a campfire.

Boating Fun

Scouting America offers several boating awards, from merit badges like Canoeing, Rowing and Small-boat Sailing, to special awards, including Kayaking and Whitewater Rafting. These awards are for older Scouts, Sea Scouts, Explorers and Venturers.

Most boating activities are for older Scouts, though Cub Scouts can ride or paddle in canoes, kayaks and other boats on calm water.

Before you get on the water, follow the proper safety rules as outlined in the Guide to Safe Scouting.

The Right Moves

Whether you’re weaving around logs or cruising on flat water, canoeing is a lot easier when you know how to paddle. Use these paddling strokes to guide your boat where you want to go:

Forward stroke — Helps you go forward. Place the paddle in the water and draw it back.

Backstroke — Helps you stop or move backward. Place the paddle in the water, keeping it vertical and pushing it forward.

Draw stroke — Moves the canoe sideways, toward the paddling side. Place the paddle far from the boat and draw it to you.

Pushaway stroke — Moves the canoe sideways, away from the paddling side. Place the paddle close to the boat and push it away from you.

Forward sweep — Turns your canoe. Create an arc with the paddle starting in front of you, which swings the canoe around.

Reverse sweep — Turns your canoe. Create an arc with the paddle starting behind you, which swings the canoe around the other way.

J-stroke — A forward stroke that counteracts any drifting, keeping you going straight. The paddling motion looks like the letter “J.”

"Troop 8 Paddles the Enchanting and Challenging Congaree" appeared first on Scout Life magazine.

With a simple combination of grape juice and baking soda, you can create your very own disappearing ink, perfect for crafting top-secret notes that can’t be seen by the naked eye. This fun and easy recipe allows you to write hidden messages that only reveal themselves when exposed to the right conditions.

WHAT YOU’LL NEED

• 1 tablespoon of baking soda
• ¼ cup of water
• Grape juice concentrate
• Paintbrush or cotton swab
• Paper
• Two small bowls

HOW TO WRITE A SECRET MESSAGE WITH INVISIBLE INK

1. Mix the baking soda and water in a small bowl. This is your invisible ink.

2. Dip a finger, cotton swab or paintbrush into the “ink.”

3. Write your message on a piece of light-colored paper. You may want to write it in code using this build-it-yourself secret-code wheel.

4. Let it dry completely.

HOW TO REVEAL AND READ AN INVISIBLE INK MESSAGE

1. Lightly paint grape juice concentrate across the paper with a brush.

2. Your message will slowly appear as the juice saturates the paper.

WHY IT WORKS

Baking soda and water make an excellent invisible ink because when the solution is applied to paper, it dries clear and remains undetectable.

The magic happens when you brush the paper with grape juice. The acidity in the grape juice reacts with the alkaline baking soda, causing a chemical reaction that changes the color of the writing. This reaction reveals the hidden message, making the writing visible. It’s a simple yet effective method for creating secret messages using common household ingredients.

If you’re interested in secret messages and codes, check out the Cub Scout Code of the Wolf elective adventure or the Signs, Signals and Codes merit badge.

"How to Make Invisible Ink for Writing Top-Secret Messages" appeared first on Scout Life magazine.

Q: I’m going whitewater rafting. I’m wondering about footwear for in the raft and out of the water.

— John, Houston, Texas

A: For boating and dynamic activities like whitewater rafting, you’ll want something that’ll securely stay on your feet. Shop for water shoes. They look like regular sneakers but often include quick-drying mesh, draining holes, tough rubber soles and lock-lace systems to tighten around your feet. The Teva Outflow Universal water shoe ($110, teva.com) uses three adjustable straps so you can get the right fit. One plus for closed-toe water shoes with more enclosed uppers is that they can double as hiking shoes for short, light hikes.

Depending on where and when you go, the water can get pretty chilly. Consider also wearing wool or neoprene socks to keep your feet warm.

"What Kind of Footwear for Whitewater Rafting?" appeared first on Scout Life magazine.

On your next hike, take a pair of binoculars so you can study wildlife that’s far away. With the Pentax Papilio II ($109, us.ricoh-imaging.com), you can observe close-up wildlife, too.

The high-performance Papilio II uses a mechanism that slides the objective lenses to allow for clear, sharp viewing at less than 2 feet away. This lets you observe insects and plants without disturbing them. With a turn of the focus wheel, you can dial in on birds, mammals and other scenery.

Binoculars have two magnification numbers: the first is the magnification power and the second is the size of the objective lens in millimeters. The Papilio II is sold in 6.5×21 and 8.5×21, meaning it can increase your view by 6.5 or 8.5 times.

The binoculars’ soft rubber exterior lets you get a good grip, and the compact size makes it easy to pack and carry.

"Stuff We Like: Papilio II Binoculars" appeared first on Scout Life magazine.

Memorizing the Scout Oath is an important step in becoming a Scout. The Oath lays the foundation for the values and principles that guide every Scout’s actions. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to strengthen your memory, these fun and effective tools can make the memorization process much easier.

You may also want to check out our five easy ways to memorize the Scout Law.

1. DISAPPEARING WORDS

This memorization tool turns learning the Scout Oath into a fun memory challenge by gradually removing words to test your recall. It’s like a memory puzzle that gets trickier as you go!

Here’s how to use it:

1. Read Aloud: Start by reading the entire Scout Oath aloud a few times to get familiar with it.

2. Remove Words: Click on a word to remove it from the list.

3. Recite: Try to recite the Scout Oath, filling in the missing word from memory.

4. Repeat: Continue removing words one by one, reciting the Oath each time, until you can say the entire Scout Oath without any words showing.

2. USE FIRST LETTER CLUES TO MEMORIZE THE SCOUT OATH

Here’s a cool trick for memorizing the Scout Oath using just the first letter of each word as a clue. This method helps you recall the full words much faster and more efficiently.

Here’s how to use it:

1. Read Aloud: Begin by reading the entire Scout Oath aloud a few times to familiarize yourself with it.

2. Remove Letters: Click on words to remove everything except the first letter.

3. Recite: Try to recite the Scout Oath using the first letters as clues to help you remember the full words.

4. Repeat: Continue practicing, gradually relying more on memory, until you can confidently recite the entire Scout Oath without needing the letter clues.

Do you have other creative ideas that helped you memorize the Scout Oath? Share them in the comments!

"Useful Tools to Help You Memorize the Scout Oath" appeared first on Scout Life magazine.

Memorizing the Scout Law is an important part of being a Scout, and it can be a lot of fun too!

The Scout Law is a list of twelve important traits that should guide a Scout’s actions and decisions. They can help you be a better Scout and a better person.

If you want to make sure you remember all the points, these cool memorization tips and tricks will help you learn the Scout Law in no time!

You may also want to check out our tools to help you memorize the Scout Oath.

1. DISAPPEARING WORDS

This memorization tool will help you learn the Scout Law by gradually removing words to test your recall. It’s like a memory puzzle!

(Full-screen version of this tool)

Here’s how to use it:

1. Read Aloud: Start by reading the entire Scout Law aloud a few times to get familiar with it.

2. Remove Words: Click on a word to remove it from the list.

3. Recite: Try to recite the Scout Law, filling in the missing word from memory.

4. Repeat: Continue removing words one by one, reciting the Law each time, until you can say the entire Scout Law without any words showing.

2. FIRST LETTER CLUES

Here’s a cool trick: try memorizing the Scout Law by just looking at the first letter of each word. By using the first letters as clues, you’ll be able to remember the full words much faster.

(Full-screen version of this tool)

Here’s how to use it:

1. Read Aloud: Begin by reading the entire Scout Law aloud a few times to familiarize yourself with it.

2. Remove Letters: Click on words to remove everything except the first letter.

3. Recite: Try to recite the Scout Law using the first letters as clues to help you remember the full words.

4. Repeat: Continue practicing, gradually relying more on memory, until you can confidently recite the entire Scout Law without needing the letter clues.

3. MUSICAL MEMORIZATION

Repetitive songs are a great way to help you memorize the Scout Law. Just sing the points of the law over and over, and the catchy tunes will stick in your head! You’ll be surprised how quickly you remember everything.

Download: The Scout Law Bop | Scout Law Dance Party | Scout Law Serenade | Rocking the Scout Law | Scout Law Beats

These songs were made with help of AI to be easy, catchy, and fun to sing. You can use them or make up your own!

A classic way to learn the Scout Law is by singing these words to the tune of Yankee Doodle:

Trusty Tommy was a Scout,
Loyal to his mother,
Helpful to the folks about,
And friendly to his brother.

Courteous to the girls he knew,
Kind unto his rabbit,
Obedient to his father, too,
and cheerful in his habits.

Thrifty saving for a need,
Brave, but not a faker,
Clean in thought and word and deed,
And reverent to his Maker.

4. LEARN THE EMOJI SCOUT LAW

Sometimes pictures are easier to remember than words. That’s why Scout Life readers helped us match the perfect emoji to each part of the Scout Law.

Check out the Emoji Scout Law here and download a handy worksheet to help you learn and remember it.

5. GAMES OR PUZZLES TO MEMORIZE THE SCOUT LAW

Games and puzzles are a super fun way to memorize the Scout Law! You can try relay races where each team member has to remember and say a point of the Scout Law before tagging the next person. Or try word searches and crossword puzzles that use the words from the Scout Law to help you remember them.

These games make learning more interactive and enjoyable, and before you know it, you’ll have the Scout Law memorized without even realizing it. Plus, it’s a great way to practice with your Cub Scout den or Scouts BSA patrol!

Do you have other ideas that helped you memorize the Scout Law? Share them in the comments!

"5 Easy Ways to Memorize the Scout Law" appeared first on Scout Life magazine.

Here’s what you’ll find inside the September 2024 issue of Scout Life magazine. Remember, many articles are only available to subscribers and are not available online.

Please visit scoutlife.org/subscribe to subscribe to the print or digital editions of Scout Life magazine.

SEPTEMBER 2024 FEATURES

SUMMIT SEEKERS

These Scouts braved the elements as they explored the California mountains.

• Troop 413 Braved the Elements to Explore the California Mountains

GEAR GUY: PACK LEADERS

Carry your gear efficiently with these top backpacks.

• Pick the Best Backpack With These Expert Buying Tips

CYCLING THROUGH HISTORY

These Scouts learned about Texas history as they biked the Mission Trails.

• Scouts Learn About Texas History as They Bike the Mission Trails

SCOUTING AROUND: LET’S GO BIRDING

You’ll find some birds almost everywhere, while others live only in certain places.

• Visit the Scouting Around blog

HOW TO DO IT: WHIP AND FUSE ROPE

The more you use rope, the more it frays. Here’s how to make one of the most important tools in Scouting last a little longer.

• How to Whip and Fuse the Ends of Rope

AND MORE!

Look for the regular score of comics, jokes, games, Scouts in Action and more! Only in the September 2024 issue of Scout Life!

• Wacky Adventures @Scout Life
• Pee Wee Harris
• Scouts in Action
• More S.I.A.

"Inside the September 2024 Issue" appeared first on Scout Life magazine.

The Scouting America swim test represents the minimum level of ability for safe swimming in water that’s over your head.

The swim test is given one-on-one under the guidance of qualified supervision. Each part of the test is important, and it must be completed without lifejackets, wetsuits, fins or other aids. Swim goggles may be used to avoid eye irritation.

Swim tests must be renewed annually, usually at the beginning of the summer.

SWIMMER’S TEST REQUIREMENTS:

1. Jump feet first into water over your head, and begin swimming without any aids. The test must be given under the guidance of qualified supervision.

2. Swim 75 yards in a strong manner using the sidestroke, breast stroke, trudgen or crawl.

3. Swim 25 yards using the resting backstroke.

The 100 yards must be swum continuously with at least one sharp turn and without assistance from the side or bottom.

4. When you’re done, rest by floating, not treading water or swimming in place.

BEGINNER’S SWIM TEST REQUIREMENTS:

Jump feet first into water over the head in depth, level off, swim 25 feet on the surface, stop, turn sharply, resume swimming as before, and return to starting place.

Anyone who has not completed the beginner or swimmer tests is classified as a nonswimmer.

You can find more information in the Guide to Safe Scouting and in Scouting America’s Aquatics Resources.

"Scouting America Swim Test Requirements" appeared first on Scout Life magazine.

Do you know a Scout or adult leader who daily demonstrates the Scout Oath and Law? You can recognize them by electing them to the Order of the Arrow (OA).

The OA is Scouting’s national honor society with lodges in every council across the country. If you’re in a Scouts BSA troop, Venturing crew or Sea Scout ship, you can hold an election to nominate qualified individuals.

Order of the Arrow members, male and female, are called “Arrowmen.” They can wear a white sash adorned with a red arrow. They promote camping, serve as leaders and participate in national activities, like service projects and leadership seminars. OA members also complete conservation projects at high-adventure bases and on public lands across the U.S.

Every 2-3 years, Arrowmen gather for the National Order of the Arrow Conference (NOAC) at a major university. Additionally, the OA hosts National Leadership Seminars held across the country and multi-lodge events, known as conclaves. These events offer participants the chance to hone their leadership skills and enjoy fellowship with other Arrowmen.

To be eligible to join the Order of the Arrow, you must meet camping and rank requirements. All qualified Scouts BSA, Venturers and Sea Scouts can be elected. There are three levels of membership within the OA: Ordeal, Brotherhood and Vigil. After fulfilling certain requirements, including service, a member can be recognized at the next level of honor.

"What is the Order of the Arrow?" appeared first on Scout Life magazine.

Inside the entrance to the Mission Espada sits a large wooden weaving loom covered in strands of wool that are intertwined to create a colorful blanket. It’s an example of how mission residents used to make their clothes about 300 years ago in Texas’ first mission.

“We learned about the process for weaving wool for clothes and the tools they used,” says Camden Redden, 15, a Star Scout with Troop 848. “We saw an archaeology dig that was being done, too.”

The guys from Clear Lake, Texas, admired the historical exhibits inside Mission Espada before hopping back on their bicycles and continuing their big day of cycling: a 10-mile ride along the mission trails toward downtown San Antonio.

From left: Wesley Arnold, Charlie Baccus and Parker Swain study a map to figure out where to explore.

LESSONS WHILE RIDING THE MISSION TRAILS

For more than 20 years, Troop 848 has scheduled a yearly cycling campout. One popular destination is the Mission Trails, an urban hike-and-bike system that connects five historical Spanish missions, including the Alamo.

The missions were built in the early 1700s and served to introduce Christianity to Native Americans. In the 1830s, the Alamo famously became a central battle site during the Texas Revolution.

Cycling to each mission would be a fun way for the Scouts to learn about their state’s history. Plus, the trip could count toward the Historic Trails Award.

Troop 848 of Clear Lake, Texas, pedals along the Mission Trails in San Antonio. Leading the way are Wesley Arnold, Travis Redou, Charlie Baccus and Parker Swann.

“We had an on-the-trail quiz,” Camden says. “The patrols completed a scavenger hunt, covering the history of the missions.”

To prepare for the trip, the Scouts inspected their gear twice, making sure their helmets fit and their bicycles worked properly. If they didn’t have something they needed, they got it before the trip.

“At the first meeting, I borrowed someone else’s bike,” says Travis Redou, 11, a Scout. “By the next inspection, I had my bike. A bike repair shop donated one to me.”

Ryan Tryer (left) and Caleb Lazarow ride under an art sculpture titled “Árbol de la Vida: Memorias y Voces de la Tierra,” which means “Tree of Life: Memories and Voices of the Land.”

ON THE MISSION TRAILS

After a night at McGimsey Scout Park, an Alamo Council camp, the guys got their gear ready for the ride. It had rained the night before, but the trails soon dried out as temperatures climbed. It can get hot in Texas, even in April.

The heat would pose a challenge, but the troop made sure to drink plenty of fluids — plus they had lots of rest stops planned. At the missions, they explored the buildings and read the informational plaques.

The Mission San José is the largest mission site in San Antonio.

“It was fun to see parts of the culture and see the architecture that was there,” says Christopher Adams, 14, a First Class Scout.

The guys pedaled from mission to mission, which included climbing several hills.

“I thought 10 miles would be easy, but it turned out it was not,” says Theo Snell, 10, a Scout. “I felt super tired.”

The troop stands in front of the Alamo, which originally was named Misión San Antonio de Valero.

A TASTY REWARD

Some Scouts tackled an extra 5 miles to fulfill a Camping merit badge requirement, but everyone met up later at a downtown park called the River Walk.

Mexican cuisine and ice cream topped off a fun, educational day. As the guys ate, they waved to people riding by on tour boats.

“I really had a feeling of accomplishment by dinner,” Travis says.

The Historic Trails Award

Learn about our country’s history by visiting a historical trail. You can find one near you at go.scoutlife.org/historictrails. If you also research, hike or camp along the trail and complete a service project, you can earn the Historic Trails Award.

"Scouts Learn About Texas History as They Bike the Mission Trails" appeared first on Scout Life magazine.

What’s going on in this picture? What is that crocodile doing or thinking?

If you can think of a funny caption for this photo, just post it in the comment form at the bottom of this page. After we approve it, your funny caption will be on this page for everyone to read.

Click here to write captions for more funny photos.

"Write a Funny Caption For This Photo" appeared first on Scout Life magazine.

The more you use rope, the more it frays. If you whip and fuse rope, you can make one of the most important tools in Scouting last a little longer.

WHAT YOU’LL NEED

• Frayed rope
• At least 10 inches of string, dental floss or thin twine
• Scissors
• A lighter, match or candle

HOW TO WHIP THE END OF A ROPE

For natural-fiber rope like sisal or cotton, you’ll whip the rope.

1. Cut off the part of the rope that is unraveling.

2. Cut a piece of strong string, dental floss or thin twine at least 8-10 inches long. Make a loop and place it on one end of the rope.

3. Wrap the string tightly around the rope several times.

4. When the whipping is as wide as the rope is thick, slip the end through the loop.

5. Pull the string ends tightly and cut them off.

HOW TO FUSE THE END OF A ROPE

For synthetic materials like nylon, fuse the rope. Rope and cord made from plastic or nylon will melt when exposed to high heat.

1. Cut away the frayed part of the rope.

2. Working in a well-ventilated area, hold each end of the rope a few inches above a lighter, match or candle to melt and fuse the strands together.

3. Let it cool off for a few minutes.

Be careful: Melted nylon is hot and sticky, so don’t touch the end until it’s completely cool.

"How to Whip and Fuse the Ends of Rope" appeared first on Scout Life magazine.

Birdwatching can be a fun pastime. More than 800 species of birds migrate across or breed in North America. They range from the massive California condor with a wingspan of 9 feet to the tiny calliope hummingbird, which measures about 3 inches long. You’ll find some birds almost everywhere, while others live only in certain places.

It can be exciting to find a rare species. Studying habitats increases your odds for finding birds. Specific species have preferred food sources and hiding and nesting areas. Some birds make parks and backyards their homes, while others gravitate toward marshlands or mountains.

WHAT YOU’LL NEED

• Binoculars: Look for a pair that is waterproof, is comfortable in your hand and has at least 8x magnification. You can borrow some until you’re ready to buy your own.

• Field guide: A bird guide will help you identify what you’re seeing. There’s information about specific birds, bird families, migration patterns and much more. You could also try a birding app to see which species have recently been spotted in your state. Some smartphone apps can help identify birds by their calls.

• A notebook and pencil to keep a log of all the species you find.

HEADING OUT TO GO BIRDWATCHING

1. Use your bird guide, smartphone app or an online resource to research birds you’d like to find in your area.

2. Start in your own backyard, or head to a nearby park with lots of trees and plenty of open space. When in parks or wildlife refuges, stay on the trails and observe from a distance so you don’t disturb nests. The best time to go is early in the morning or late in the afternoon when many species are most active.

3. Move slowly and quietly, listening carefully. Find a place to sit or stand that has a good view of everything around you. Look around for birds.

4. Once you spot a bird, study it. Find the most obvious detail about it. White wings? Yellow markings? Big crest? Write down what you observe, including the bird’s color, size, shape, sounds and habits. You can also take a photo or try drawing the birds for future reference. Those details will help you identify them. As you spend more time birding, you’ll be able to identify birds more quickly and easily.

5. Use your notebook or an app to keep a log of all the species you find.

6. You’re officially birdwatching, so you’re a birder. Keep at it! The more often you go out, the more you’ll discover.

WHY BIRDING?

Birdwatching can be a fun hobby that brings you closer to nature. In fact, birding is one of the country’s fastest-growing hobbies, with more than 65 million Americans actively involved.

Many of the most important scientific discoveries about birds were made by amateur birders. Get out there and make your own valuable contribution to science. You can also earn the Bird Study merit badge, by which you’ll identify at least 20 species of wild birds. Find a counselor to get started.

"How to Get Started Birdwatching" appeared first on Scout Life magazine.

Your backpack and boots are the two pieces of gear you’ll use the most on the trail.

“A pack that fits poorly can make or break your trip,” says Ryan Wichelns, editor-in-chief of Trails Magazine, a lifelong backpacker and former Scout from Stillwater, New York.

“Buy one that fits your body and your gear.”

When shopping for a backpacking pack, the most important thing is to try some packs to see what works, he says. A pack might look cool online but be a bad fit. Everybody is shaped differently. To get the right size, measure your torso length and hip size.

Backpacking experts Ryan Wichelns and Jenn Cadorette.

THE RIGHT FIT

An expert at your local outdoor shop can help you find the best backpack. Some outdoor shops also sell used packs. If you can find one in good shape that fits, a used pack can be a great way to save a few bucks.

Put some weight in a pack and walk around the store for a few minutes. You’ll start to notice what fits your back, shoulders and hips best. Many backpacks have adjustable torso length. That is great for people who are still growing.

The weight of a loaded pack should rest on your hips, not pull on your shoulders. Once your pack is on, watch out. Your hip belt can slide down and compress your butt, back and leg muscles, which keeps them from working right.

“Hip muscles come up higher than you think,” says Jenn Cadorette, a physical therapist and thru-hiker. “Put your hands on your waist and find your hip bones. Your backpack hip belt should stay on those bones.”

PACKING YOUR BACKPACK

How you pack your backpack is as critical as your pack’s fit.

“Pack your heaviest gear close to your back,” Cadorette says. “That will help you stay balanced when you’re hiking.”

Packs are measured in liters. For backpacking, you’ll likely need a pack that’s 35 liters or larger. Buy a pack that’s big enough to carry what you need, but not one that’s too big, or you’ll carry extra pack weight and be tempted to overload.

A versatile pack will have lash points for strapping gear on the outside, though you first want to focus on the inside. For winter backpacking, you’ll need more space for a warmer sleeping bag, extra food and clothing. Less weight is easier and more fun to walk with, but every backpacker must decide what non essential to bring and what to leave at home.

Check Scout Life’s outdoor essential checklists at go.scoutlife.org/essentials

Our favorite backpacks have features that make hiking easier. Hip belt pockets let you grab snacks, your phone and sunscreen without stopping. If your pack doesn’t come with one, you can get one that slides over your belt.

A good pack also lets you drink without taking off the pack, whether it’s a built-in space for a hydration reservoir or easy-to-reach place for a water bottle. The pack should have at least one pocket to organize gear you want to access fast, like water treatment gear, pocketknife and flashlight.

Another nice feature is a lid — or a “brain,” as Wichelns calls it — that can fully unclip so you can easily take your essentials with you into your tent instead of bringing in the whole pack.

Once you’re home, empty and dry your pack. Spot wash the pack with dishwashing soap and a sponge. Maintain your gear, and it’ll last longer.

THE BEST BACKPACKS

Granite Gear Perimeter 50

The Granite Gear Perimeter 50 ($250, granitegear.com) is a simple minimalist pack with loads of great features. The adjustable torso and hip belt fit many people and make the pack one you can grow into. It comes in regular and long torso lengths. The padded, contoured hip belt has big pockets for your gear. Granite Gear’s suspension system is comfy, with articulated, adjustable shoulder straps. The rolltop pack has two stuff pockets on the front and a zippered lid. A bottom flap holds your sleeping pad or tent. A zippered pocket in the flap stores your wet rainfly away from your other gear. Everything else goes in the main compartment. Once your pack is loaded, compression straps cinch it down so you can use this pack comfortably for weekend hikes or bigger projects, like a thru-hike. The Perimeter will last a long time; it’s made from Robic high-tenacity nylon, which is 50% stronger than regular nylon.

Forclaz MT900 UL 50+50L

At 2.9 lbs. and 60 liters, the ultra-versatile Forclaz MT900 UL 50+10L ($189, decathlon.com) is one of the most affordable large-capacity packs. With seven pockets, a hydration reservoir sleeve and clips for trekking poles, it’s ready for any trip. The MT900 lets you access gear through the top or the full side-zip. It’s a great pack for sweaty hikers because a mesh hammock lifts it off your back for airflow, and the shoulder straps and hip belt are highly perforated and covered in mesh for maximum airflow. Side cinching cords take some time to get used to, but ample lashing points and an included rain cover made this pack a top choice. So does the 10-year warranty.

REI Kid’s Tarn

You might find a kid’s pack fits you better than a pack sized for adults. The REI Kid’s Tarn ($119-$165, rei.com) has the quality and features of an adult pack but in sizes made for kids. The 40-liter version, weighing 2 lbs., 10 ounces, is for torsos down to 12 inches. It has enough internal space to suit smaller kids. For bigger kids and longer trips, the 65-liter Tarn, at 3 lbs., 14 oz., has a traditional design with a zippered sleeping bag compartment and top access. The 65-liter pack has dual oversized water bottle pockets, a hydration sleeve and a vented front shove pocket. Its removable lid has backpack straps, so you can leave your big pack behind for short hikes. This pack’s hip belt has a stiffener and thick foam to take the bite out of carrying a heavy load. The harness uses channeled foam for airflow to keep you from getting too sweaty.

Kelty Asher 55

The Kelty Asher 55 ($139, kelty.com), at 3 lbs., 2 oz., has many of the same features as more expensive packs: an adjustable torso, big water bottle pockets, separate sleeping bag access and front-of-the-pack places for strapping overflow gear, but it doesn’t have a removable lid or hip belt pockets. Still, it’s great if you’re on a tight budget. The broad hip belt and airflow back also make this a great first pack.

Nomad RT 50

With a roll-top design, the Nomad RT 50 ($230, alpsmountaineering.com) allows you to compress or expand your pack’s main compartment volume, increasing your overall space to 60 liters or pressing it down to 40 liters. At nearly 5 lbs., the pack is covered in straps and attachment points for fastening gear. This pack comes in 38- and 75-liter versions, too. ALPS Mountaineering offers gear discounts exclusive to Scouts through its Hiker Direct program. For the RT 50 pack, Scouts can get up to 40% off through the program.

BSA Mountaineer 70L backpack

If you have a long gear checklist, the BSA Mountaineer 70L backpack ($120, scoutshop.org) has room to fit all your gear. This 4 lb., 70-liter pack features designated spaces for your sleeping bag, hydration bladder and gear you need to access quickly. You’ll have plenty of storage with its outside mesh pockets, easy-access side pockets and hip belt pockets — plus there’s a place to attach your trekking poles. The pack is designed to feel lighter with its reinforced lumbar support system and adjustable straps.

"Pick the Best Backpack With These Expert Buying Tips" appeared first on Scout Life magazine.

Tristan Sword and his father sat by an alpine lake enjoying a picnic lunch. After a challenging up-and-down hike the previous day, chilling by the pristine water felt nice.

But as they relaxed, dark clouds began blanketing the sky — a hailstorm was approaching.

“The clouds got really bad,” the 15-year-old Life Scout says. “Then, wham! A piece of ice hit me in the face. There was an entire wall of ice coming down. It was so bad.”

Tristan and his dad scrambled back to camp as marble-sized pellets of ice poured down around them. Along with the rest of Troop 413, they huddled inside their tents, waiting for the tempest to pass.

Hail covered the ground the next day, but that didn’t faze the Scouts. They were veterans. For the whole trek, they had crossed snow fields, braved staggering altitudes and battled swarms of mosquitoes.

Joshua Terashima (front) and Elijah Pearson trek across a snow field in the Sierra Nevadas. The troop trekked through the John Muir wilderness, named after naturalist John Muir. Muir was instrumental in the development of our first national parks.

INTO THE MOUNTAINS

Every summer, the Scouts from Torrance, California, head into the mountain range along the state’s eastern side for a weeklong trip. The Sierra Nevada range boasts mountain peaks more than 14,000 feet tall.

Last summer, Troop 413 traversed about 50 miles in the Sierras, stopping by lakes and attempting to summit a 12,245-foot peak along the way. Rocky white mountains splattered with snow patches jutted high above passes and meadows green with pine and fir trees where the troop would camp, sometimes near lakes.

“We heard it was a beautiful place,” says Joshua Terashima, a 14-year-old Life Scout. “Our goal was to give everyone a good experience.”

James Pinner stands on a rock to fish in an alpine lake.

To do that, the Scouts needed to Be Prepared. They completed two training hikes with big changes in elevation, one of which required the troop to trek through snow.

“That snow trip helped,” says Life Scout James Pinner, 17. “During this trip, we got to use crampons for the first time. Some of us had never heard of crampons. This trip, we ended up hiking in snow a lot of the time. On the first day, we got to test out our gear.”

Joshua Terashima leads the troop up Pine Creek Pass.

FACING ADVERSITY

Having the right gear can make your trip more enjoyable, especially if you know how to use it. Spiked crampons provide more traction while hiking in the snow.

“They just strap onto your feet,” says Jacob Kotleba, 14, a Star Scout. “You stomp the snow a little bit to make it easier for the next hikers to walk.”

Snow wasn’t the only challenge for the group. They also hiked across streams and swatted mosquitoes. Some Scouts tried natural insect repellents, but what worked better were repellents with DEET as the active ingredient. Covering their faces and necks with mosquito netting also helped.

“Our longest day was probably the second day,” says Micah Bernard, 14, a Star Scout. “It was straight down and straight up. It was a tricky day.”

Top left: Before their weeklong trek, the Scouts went on training hikes, like this one near San Bernardino Peak. Top right: Aaron Kelly peeks out of his tent. Bottom left: Aaron Kelly (left) and Elijah Pearson prepare oatmeal for breakfast. Oatmeal is a healthy meal that is easy to pack for the trail. Bottom right: Stephen Kotleba leads a devotional.

After 12 miles on the second day, the group attempted to scale a nearby peak. It didn’t go as planned. “I was climbing, and my left foot slipped,” Joshua says. “My fingers bent all the way backward.”

The guys called off their summit attempt so they could attend to their injured friend. The safety and well-being of your crew should always come first. To Be Prepared for a remote high-adventure trip, you can take wilderness first-aid courses offered by Scouting America. An adult leader who was a former paramedic bandaged up Joshua.

When plans don’t go your way, it can be easy to get discouraged. But Troop 413 remembered the Scout Oath and Law. They motivated each other during their daily devotionals.

“It’s about keeping going, making it through with God’s help,” says Elijah Pearson, a 14-year-old Star Scout. “It’s a great time of reflection.”

Top: The group descends from its summit attempt at Pilot Knob. Bottom left: Joshua Terashima (left) and Tristan Sword trek across a snow field with the help of crampons on their boots. Bottom right: The group takes a break to sing together.

AMAZING EXPERIENCE

As the trip ended, the guys reflected on what they’d learned: being prepared, packing the right gear and keeping a positive attitude.

“There was so little complaining,” James says. “For every complaint, there were five people saying here’s how we can overcome the problem.”

When you’re surrounded by natural majesty, it helps you to keep your perspective, too.

“I think we all had a great time,” Joshua says. “There were amazing views for us to see the creation all around us and marvel at what God has made for us.”

From left: Aaron Kelly, Jacob Kotleba and Stephen Park head up Pine Creek Pass during Troop 413’s trek in the Sierra Nevada mountains. Aaron is wearing a mosquito head net to ward off the insects.

Know Before You Go

When trekking at high altitudes, pay attention to your health. Headaches, loss of appetite, nausea, insomnia and unusual exhaustion can be signs of acute mountain sickness.

Reduced air pressure and lower oxygen levels contribute to this sickness, which might turn deadly in severe cases. Stay hydrated and stage your ascent, acclimating yourself to the higher elevation. If you start feeling these symptoms, stop or start going downhill until you feel better.

Snow Travel

Use special footwear to gain traction and stability on snow and ice. For flat terrain, place microspikes over your shoes. The spiked devices give you enough grip to keep you hiking. Crampons work similarly but are better suited for slopes since the spikes are bigger. If you’re hiking through powder or deep snow, bring along snowshoes to keep yourself from sinking.

"Troop 413 Braves the Elements to Explore the California Mountains" appeared first on Scout Life magazine.

Q: Why use a hiking stick?

— Nicola, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

A: A hiking stick is a great tool for the trail as it helps you keep your balance on rough and sloped terrain. Plus, it takes pressure off your knees and back — something you’ll value the longer you hike.

You can make your own hiking stick. One disadvantage? A wooden hiking stick can’t grow with you, so you might consider trekking poles. Often made of lightweight aluminum or carbon fiber, they can slide to different lengths.

For example, Kelty Range 2.0 poles ($60, kelty.com) can extend from 35 to 54 inches. To find the right length, adjust the poles so your arms make a 90-degree angle with your elbow bent when you grab the grips. Many trekking poles come with wrist straps, and Kelty’s are padded to add comfort.

You can also attach baskets to the bottoms of your poles to keep them from sinking in mud or snow. The Leki Sherpa poles ($160, leki.com) come with two pairs of baskets that are easy to twist on and off when you encounter new terrain.

"What are the Advantages to Using a Hiking Stick?" appeared first on Scout Life magazine.

For the most part, plastic is good. It’s the human-made material in may useful things, such as water bottles, sports safety gear and food packaging.

However, about 12 billion pounds of plastic are dumped into oceans each year. Millions more are dumped into rivers, lakes, streams, swamps and other waterways.

This is not good.

Some types of plastic take hundreds of years to break down. In the meantime, they pollute our water and harm wildlife. More than 1 million animals are killed each year due to plastic marine debris. Waterway and marine debris also pollute soil, and animals ingest the pollution.

As a Scout, you can do something to help.

Scouting for Clean Waterways is a nationwide effort that begins on Earth Day (April 22) 2025. It is designed to help Scouts not only use less plastic, but also properly dispose of trash, recycle and actively participate in cleaning waterways in local communities. Any Scout of any age can participate.

Be on the lookout for more details on Scouting for Clean Waterways, including the patch you can earn!

HERE’S HOW SCOUTING FOR CLEAN WATERWAYS WORKS:

• Start now by reducing your personal use of disposable plastics. Use a refillable water bottle instead of buying one-time-use water bottles.

• Properly stow and dispose of trash.

• Talk with your adult or youth leader about doing a cleanup project in your area.

• Beginning on Earth Day 2025, participate in a cleanup project at a river, canal, lake, stream, swamp, beach or other waterway in your community.

• Thanks to an official partnership with CleanHub, your impact on improving waterways will be doubled. CleanHub will match Scout cleanups pound for pound of plastic debris.

• Post about your Scouting for Clean Waterways project on social media. Use #ScoutingCleanWaterways

• Log the details of your cleanup efforts on the National Ocean and Atmospheric Administration’s “Debris Tracker” app. Download the app here: go.scoutlife.org/trackdebris

"Scouting for Clean Waterways" appeared first on Scout Life magazine.

For the first modern Olympic Games in 1896, only 14 countries sent teams, with 14 athletes representing the United States. When this summer’s Games open in Paris, France, 206 countries and more than 10,500 athletes will take part.

Every Olympics creates inspiring stories. Here are 10 memorable Summer Olympic moments for Team USA.

JESSE OWENS, TRACK AND FIELD

Jesse Owens competed in the 1936 Games in Berlin, Germany, during the height of the Nazi regime, just before the start of World War II. Adolf Hitler claimed the Aryan (white) race was better than all others. Owens proved him wrong.

In an amazing feat, he won four gold medals: 100-meter, 200, the long jump and 4×100 relay. Even more remarkable, this grandson of a slave ran four 100-meter races in two days and two 200-meter heats back to back, and won the long jump on the same day as the 200-meter qualifiers.

He also showed the Olympics can rise above politics. Owens’ chief rival in the long jump was German Luz Long. The two battled back and forth, each jumping farther than the other. When Owens won, the two embraced in front of Hitler, and Owens and Long lapped the stadium together as the crowd cheered this amazing Olympic moment.

CARL LEWIS, TRACK AND FIELD

If Jesse Owens owned the Berlin Games, Los Angeles in 1984 belonged to Carl Lewis. Considered the greatest U.S. track-and-field athlete, Lewis duplicated Owens’ quadruple wins in the 100-meter, 200, long jump and 4×100.

When Lewis took the baton as anchor in the 4×100 relay, Team USA had a lead of about 3 meters. By the time he crossed the finish line, his nearest rival was 15 meters behind. His split time was 8.94 seconds, and the team’s time of 37.83 was the only track-and-field world record set in Los Angeles.

Lewis also won the long jump in Seoul, South Korea, in 1988 and two gold medals for the 4×100 and long jump in Barcelona, Spain, in 1992. In Atlanta, Georgia, in 1996, Lewis leapt 8.5 meters in the long jump to secure his ninth Olympic gold.

MARK SPITZ, SWIMMING

At the 1972 Games in Munich, Germany, Mark Spitz made history by taking home seven gold medals: the 100-meter and 200 freestyle, the 100 and 200 butterfly, and a share in the 4×100 and 4×200 freestyle relays and the 4×100 medley (swimming the butterfly leg). Even more amazing, Spitz set a world record in every race he won.

After the 4×100 medley victory ceremony for Team USA, the relay team carried Spitz around the pool. “That picture with my teammates holding me high above them I enjoy more than the one with the seven gold medals around my neck,” he said of his Olympic moment.

TEAM USA 1992, BASKETBALL

A 1989 rule change allowed Olympic basketball teams to include professional players. The “Dream Team” for the 1992 Games in Barcelona was the first U.S. team composed of NBA stars. On the roster: Michael Jordan, Magic Johnson, Larry Bird and Charles Barkley; centers David Robinson and Patrick Ewing; power forward Karl Malone; swingmen Scottie Pippen, Chris Mullen and Clyde Drexler; and point guard John Stockton.

The only amateur: Christian Laettner, the top college player of 1991-92 and future NBA All-Star.

It was no surprise they crushed the competition, beating all eight opponents by an average of 44 points. Opponents knew they were toast, but didn’t care. Some were so dazzled by the star power, they got their own teammates to snap photos of them during match-ups.

GREG LOUGANIS, DIVING

Thwack! Greg Louganis struck his head on the springboard doing a reverse 2 1⁄2 somersault in the pike position on his ninth dive during the preliminary round at the 1988 Seoul Games. Though able to haul himself out of the water, the 1984 Olympic gold medalist dropped from first to fifth.

Thirty minutes after having a 3-inch gash quickly stitched, Louganis nailed his final dive to qualify for finals. Not only did he repeat the same reverse dive the following day, but he also won springboard gold by a margin of 25 points and then the platform event days later. That made him the first man to win both springboard and platform diving titles in successive Games.

For his courage, Louganis was given the Olympic Spirit Award.

AL OERTER, TRACK AND FIELD

Al Oerter was already a two-time Olympic gold medalist in discus when he headed to Tokyo, Japan, in 1964. Six days before the final while practicing, Oerter tore a rib muscle and pinched a nerve in his neck. Medics told him it was the end of his career.

But this was the Olympics. Blocking out the pain during the finals, he removed his neck brace for the final throw and set an Olympic record.

In 1968, Oerter was told he was too old to compete, but he made it to the Games in Mexico City. His third and final throw reached 212 feet 6 inches, an Olympic record and 5 feet farther than Oerter had ever thrown before. No other athlete has won four successive gold medals in discus.

KERRI STRUG, GYMNASTICS

Except for their boycott in 1984, women gymnasts from the Soviet Union had won team gold at every Games since 1948. Then came Team USA in Atlanta in 1996. They were in first place after three events. One to go: the vault.

Kerri Strug was the final American. Her teammate, Dominique Moceanu, had landed on her rear in both of her vaults. Strug dashed down the runway, handspringing and twisting through the air. She landed and felt her left ankle crack. She had torn two ligaments.

There was no time to know if her 9.162 score was enough to hang on to gold. Competitors get two tries at vault, and the better one counts. Coach Bela Karolyi asked Strug if she could vault again. “I will do it, I will, I will,” she replied.

She sprinted, flipped and landed on both feet. She hopped on one leg just long enough to salute the judges. Her score: a gold-medal-winning 9.712. At the awards ceremony, Karolyi triumphantly carried Strug to the podium. The vault would be her last as a competitive gymnast and one of the greatest Olympic moments.

RULON GARDNER, WRESTLING

Rulon Gardner didn’t stand a chance. In Sydney, Australia, in 2000, the farm boy from Wyoming faced Russian wrestler Aleksandr Karelin in the Greco-Roman super heavyweight gold medal match.

Karelin had three Olympic gold medals and nine world titles, and hadn’t lost a match in 15 years. But no matter what Karelin tried — yanking, head slaps or clinching Gardner’s 54-inch
chest — Gardner resisted.

As overtime began, Gardner kept Karelin from launching his trademark reverse lift and withstood the Russian clawing at his face. With five seconds left, the “unbeatable” Karelin conceded. It was the biggest upset in Olympic wrestling history.

MICHAEL PHELPS, SWIMMING

In the 100-meter butterfly finals at the 2008 Games in Beijing, China, Michael Phelps trailed Serbian Milorad Cavic for 99.9 meters. As Cavic glided toward the wall, Phelps came crashing past in the next lane. Both looked up at the scoreboard. It flashed Phelps in first. He had touched 0.01 second ahead!

If judged by medals won, Phelps might be the greatest Olympian of all time. He has 28: 23 gold, three silver and two bronze collected in 2004, 2008, 2012 and 2016. In 2008, he won eight golds in eight days, breaking Spitz’s record.

One of the biggest challenges came when his goggles filled with water in the 200-meter butterfly. Unable to see, Phelps had to count out each stroke so he knew when he was going to hit the wall. He still managed to break a world record.

BILLY MILLS, TRACK AND FIELD

The only person who thought Billy Mills would win the 10,000-meter race in Tokyo in 1964 was Billy Mills. No American had even come close to winning the race since it became an Olympic event in 1912. And no one in the racing world had heard of Mills.

The Marine Corps officer of Native American heritage lined up with 38 other runners. The starter pistol fired. They were off. By the last lap, Mills and Mohammed Gammoudi of Tunisia were at the shoulder of Australian Ron Clarke, the world record holder. Clarke found himself boxed in and shoved Mills, who nearly stumbled. Gammoudi grabbed the lead. Then Mills kicked it into high gear and pounded past the leaders.

This “unknown” ran 45 seconds faster than ever before in his life, setting an Olympic record and taking home the first and only gold medal for the U.S. in the event.

YOUR FAVORITE SUMMER OLYMPIC MOMENT?

Did we miss your favorite top Team USA Summer Olympic moment? Tell us about it in the comments below. For more Olympic fun, see the photo gallery of Olympic mascots, laugh at Olympic jokes, and take Summer Olympics trivia quiz.

"Watch Video of Team USA’s Top 10 Olympic Moments" appeared first on Scout Life magazine.

Since 1968, the Olympics have proudly paraded a quirky cast of mascots, each more eccentric than the last! Dive into our photo gallery of Olympic mascots and get ready for a celebration of cuteness and creativity.

Which ones do you think were wildest, wackiest, weirdest, and coolest mascots of all time? Comment with your votes below.

1968 Winter Olympics in Grenoble, France

Although it was just an unofficial Olympic mascot, Schuss zipped down the French slopes with endless enthusiasm.

Fun fact: Schuss was designed in only one night.

Critics say: It’s a little skier who looks like he escaped from a cartoon toothpaste ad, zooming down the slopes and leaving a trail of minty freshness and fun. Schuss set the bar for future Olympic mascots by being both delightfully creepy and unforgettably weird.

1972 Summer Olympics in Munich, West Germany

Waldi the dachshund was the first official Olympic mascot.

Fun fact: The route of the marathon at the 1972 Olympics was shaped like Waldi. The race started at the neck and went counterclockwise.

Critics say: Waldi is a dachshund who looks like he’s always ready for a walk (or a marathon). He probably brought his own tiny running shoes.

1976 Winter Games in Innsbruck, Austria

Schneemann was a charming snowman wearing a traditional Tyrolean hat. He represented the cozy, festive feeling of winter sports.

Fun fact: Schneeman was a commercial success, selling many t-shirts and stuffies, which is the most important job for Olympic mascots.

Critics say: He looks like your friendly neighborhood snowman detective, always on the lookout for missing sleds and stolen carrot noses.

1976 Summer Games in Montreal, Canada

Amik the beaver was the official Olympic mascot of the 1976 Summer Games in Montreal, Canada.

Fun fact: The beaver is one of the national symbols of Canada.

Critics say: Amik the beaver is a construction expert who seems to be saying, “I built these Olympic arenas with my own two teeth.” He’s the ultimate symbol of hard work and community spirit.

1980 Winter Games in Lake Placid, New York

Roni the raccoon brought woodland charm to the games. His masked face resembled the hat and goggles used by competitors.

Fun fact: The games’ organizers also used real raccoons as mascots.

Critics say: Roni the raccoon looks like he’s just been caught red-handed raiding the snack bar. With his wide eyes and cheeky grin, he’s always ready for mischief.

1980 Summer Games in Moscow, USSR

Misha was the mascot for the 1980 Summer Games in Moscow, USSR. Its full name was Mikhail Potapych Toptygin.

Fun fact: The bear was the national symbol of the Soviet Union. Several years before the Olympics, Misha took off on a rocket and visited the Salyut 6 space station.

Critics say: Misha gives the best bear hugs and is always up for a friendly chat about honey and sportsmanship. His smile could melt even the worst Cold War tensions, if not for that pesky boycott.

1984 Winter Games in Sarajevo, Yugoslavia

Vučko, a friendly wolf, quickly became a symbol of peace and friendship during the games.

Fun fact: His name means “little wolf.” The wolf is featured in many Yugoslavian fables.

Critics say: Vučko, the wolf with a heart of gold, seems surprisingly tame considering his wild ancestry. He’s the kind of wolf who’d help you find your lost mittens.

1984 Summer Games in Los Angeles, California

Sam the eagle was friendly and cheerful. He featured many elements of American culture.

Fun fact: He was designed by a Disney artist.

Critics say: Sam the eagle is as patriotic as they come, with a beak for delivering inspiring speeches and wings ready to spread freedom and fun. He’s the ultimate star-spangled Olympic mascot.

1988 Winter Games in Calgary, Canada

Hidy and Howdy were polar bears who welcomed everyone to Canada with open arms and big smiles.

Fun fact: The bear siblings were the first dual mascot.

Critics say: A brother-sister polar bear duo that probably moonlight as Canadian Mounties. They’re here to make sure you have a great time, eh?

1988 Summer Games in Seoul, South Korea

Hodori the tiger was the mascot at the 1988 Summer Games in Seoul, South Korea.

Fun fact: Seoul also had a female mascot named Hosuni.

Critics say: Hodori the tiger is always on the prowl for new friends and adventures. His playful demeanor and charming stripes make him the life of the Olympics.

1992 Winter Games in Albertville, France

Magique the star-shaped snow imp symbolized dreams and imagination.

Fun fact: Magique replaced a mountain goat to become this Olympic’s mascot. His colors came from the French flag.

Critics say: A star-shaped sprite who seems like he escaped from a cartoon. His main power? Making you smile despite the freezing temperatures.

1992 Summer Games in Barcelona, Spain

Cobi is a Pyrenean mountain dog drawn in an avant-garde, cubist style.

Fun fact: His design was influenced by the works of Picasso.

Critics say: Cobi the sheepdog looks like Picasso drew him after eating bad tapas. He’s quirky, artsy, and always ready to bring a dose of abstract joy to the games.

1994 Winter Games in Lillehammer, Norway

Haakon and Kristin brought a blend of history and modern Olympic spirit to the games:

Fun fact: The mascots were two children from Norwegian history dressed in medieval clothes. They were the first mascots in human form.

Critics say: Haakon and Kristin are Viking kids who seem like they just raided a candy store. They’re ready for epic snowball fights and historical reenactments with a twist.

1996 Summer Games in Atlanta, Georgia

Izzy is a colorful, shape-shifting character full of surprises.

Fun fact: The mascot was originally named “Whatizit,” but he was renamed Izzy by the children of Atlanta.

Critics say: No one’s quite sure what Izzy is, but he looks like the result of a sugar-fueled brainstorming session. A blue, shape-shifting blob of pure Olympic chaos.

1998 Winter Games in Nagano, Japan

The Snowlets — Sukki, Nokki, Lekki and Tsukki — were four snowy owls representing fire, air, earth, and water.

Fun fact: Nagano’s original mascot was a weasel named Snowpie.

Critics say: These four wise owls always look slightly confused, like they’ve been woken up way too early from hibernation. They’re still trying to figure out why they’re not in Hogwarts.

2000 Summer Games in Sydney, Australia

Olly the kookaburra, Syd the platypus, and Millie the echidna brought Aussie charm to the games.

Fun fact: Game organizers purposely avoided choosing kangaroos and koalas as mascots because they were too obvious.

Critics say: This trio — a kookaburra, a platypus, and an echidna — could host their own wildlife talk show. They bring the best of Down Under charm and humor to the games.

2002 Winter Games in Salt Lake City, Utah

Powder, Coal and Copper represented Utah’s snow, natural resources and land.

Fun fact: The hare, coyote, and bear are major characters in Native American legends and each wore a petroglyph charm around its neck.

Critics say: A hare, a coyote, and a bear who look like they formed a garage band but can’t decide on their genre. Their music? A mix of rock and country with a bit of howling.

2004 Summer Games in Athens, Greece

Phevos and Athena were designed to symbolize the link between ancient Greece and the modern Olympics.

Fun fact: These Olympic mascots were inspired by traditional Greek dolls from the 7th century BC. They were named after Greek gods.

Critics say: Sibling gods who look like they just stepped out of an ancient Greek vase painting. They’re here to bring some divine flair to the games.

2006 Winter Games in Turin, Italy

Neve the snowball and Gliz the ice cube represented the elements required for a successful winter games.

Fun fact: Their names mean “snow” and “ice” in Italian, and they were chosen from more than 200 proposals.

Critics say: A snowball and ice cube that seem like they belong in a Pixar short about unlikely friendships. They melt hearts without melting themselves.

2008 Summer Games in Beijing, China

The five Fuwa children represented different elements and regions of China, creating a harmonious and colorful Olympic games.

Fun fact: Together, their five names form a Chinese phrase which means “Beijing welcomes you.”

Critics say: These five dolls are like the Avengers of the Olympics, each with a special power to bring harmony and happiness. They’re cute, colorful, and ready to dazzle the world.

2010 Winter Games in Vancouver, Canada

Miga the sea bear, Quatchi the sasquatch, and Sumi the thunderbird brought a blend of mythology and fun to the games. Mukmuk the marmot was their sidekick.

Fun fact: The Olympic mascots were inspired by First Nations legends.

Critics say: A mythical sea bear, a sasquatch, and an animal guardian spirit. It sounds like the start of a joke: “A sea bear, a sasquatch, and a spirit walk into a …” These three are all about the fun and games.

2012 Summer Games in London, England

Wenlock represented drops of steel and brought a touch of the future to the games.

Fun fact: He was named after an English town which hosted the first unofficial modern Olympic Games in 1850.

Critics say: This futuristic figure looks like it stepped out of a sci-fi movie, here to show that the future of fun is now. Wenlock’s all about innovation and a jolly good time.

2014 Winter Games in Sochi, Russia

The Leopard, the Hare and the Polar Bear represented different parts of Russia, showcasing the country’s diverse wildlife and landscapes.

Fun fact: The Olympic mascots were selected by the Russian people during a live national TV broadcast by text message voting.

Critics say: A bear, a leopard, and a hare who look like they just escaped a Russian fairy tale, ready to add a dash of magic and a sprinkle of adventure to every event.

2016 Summer Games in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

Vinicius, a mixture of all Brazilian animals, was the Olympic Games mascot. Tom, a magical fusion of all the plants in the Brazilian forests, was the Paralympic Games mascot.

Fun fact: Vinicius was named for a famous bossa nova composer.

Critics say: Vinicius and Tom are the ultimate carnival mascots, with samba moves and a party attitude. Named after famous Brazilian musicians, they’re ready to dance the night away.

2018 Winter Games in PyeongChang, South Korea

Soohorang, a white tiger, was a symbol of strength and protection.

Fun fact: His name came from “Sooho,” meaning protection in Korean, and “Rang,” from the Korean word for tiger, making him the perfect guardian of the games.

Critics say: A white tiger who probably doubles as a motivational speaker. He’s got the stripes of an athlete and the heart of a champion.

2020 Summer Games in Tokyo, Japan

Miraitowa (left) was the official mascot of the 2020 Summer Games (postponed to 2021) in Tokyo, Japan. It was named for the Japanese words for “future” and “eternity.” Someity (right) was the mascot for the 2020 Summer Paralympics. It was named after a type of cherry blossom.

Fun fact: The mascots were inspired by superheroes. Miraitowa had the ability to teleport, and Someity could fly.

Critics say: These futuristic beings seem like they’ve traveled back in time to show us what’s cool. Miraitowa’s got the energy, and Someity’s got the smarts.

2022 Winter Games in Beijing, China

Bing Dwen Dwen was a loveable panda wearing a full-body shell of ice, which helped the mascot skate, snowboard and ski alongside the Olympic athletes.

Fun fact: His name means “ice” and “lively and robust,” perfectly capturing his energetic and adventurous spirit.

Critics say: A panda in a space suit because why not? He’s ready to explore new frontiers in both space and snow sports.

2024 Summer Games in Paris, France

Olympic Phryge is the mascot for the Paris 2024 Olympics. It’s inspired by the small Phrygian hat.

Fun fact: The Phrygian cap is a common metaphor for freedom found in French art and sculpture. The symbolic hat is even used on French coins and stamps.

Critics say: Phryge is a stylish French hat that looks like it’s about to start a fashion revolution. Chic, unique, and très magnifique!

Which Olympic mascots were your favorite? Comment below with your vote for the wildest, wackiest, weirdest, and coolest mascots of all time. Plus, watch Team USA’s Top 10 Olympic moments, laugh at funny Olympic jokes, and take our Summer Olympics quiz.

"Meet the Mascots: Check Out the Wild and Wacky Olympic Mascot Photo Gallery" appeared first on Scout Life magazine.

Go for the gold with our Summer Olympics Trivia Quiz! From sports to history, see how much you really know about the world’s most exciting sporting event. Take the challenge and show off your Olympic knowledge today!

Once you’ve finished the quiz, check out the Olympic Mascot photo gallery, watch Team USA’s Top 10 Olympic Moments, laugh at funny Olympic jokes, and more!

"Take the Summer Olympics Trivia Quiz!" appeared first on Scout Life magazine.

Once you’re done laughing, check out our Summer Games trivia quiz, the Top 10 moments for Team USA, and our gallery of wild and wacky Olympic mascots.

A book never written: “The Olympic Trials” by Willy Qualify.
Joke by Will R., Littleton, Colo.

Fan: I see you won a silver medal at the Olympics. What’s it for?
Athlete: It’s for telling knock knock jokes.
Fan: And what’s that gold medal for?
Athlete: For stopping.
Joke by Matthew R., Chesapeake, Va.

Jack: What’s the name of the fastest dinosaur at the Olympics?
Jill: I haven’t a clue. What?
Jack: Prontosaurus.
Joke by Joseph M., Akron, Ohio

Tom Swiftie: “I like the Olympics!” Tom said gamely.
Joke by Katie K., Liberty Hill, Tex.

Seth: Why is basketball the messiest Olympic sport?
Will: I don’t know.
Seth: Because the players dribble all over the court!
Joke by Travis V., Kilgore, Texas

Nicholas: What’s the fastest bug at the Olympics?
Triston: What?
Nicholas: The quicket.
Joke by Nicholas R., Spokane Valley, Wash.

Dan: Why does Cinderella never win the Olympics?
Stan: Why?
Dan: She has a pumpkin for a coach and runs away from the ball.
Joke by Danny C., Ponte Vedra Beach, Fla.

Daffynition: Olympiads — Commercials shown during the Summer and Winter Games.
Joke by Padraic B., Oakland, N.J.

A book never written: “Winter Olympic Sports” by Bob Sled.
Joke by Gray C., Phoenix, Ariz.

Mike: Why is it so hot in a stadium after the Olympic games are over?
Andy: I don’t know.
Mike: Because all the fans have left!
Joke by Mike A., Genoa, Ill.

Comic by Jon Carter

Joe: What is a banana’s favorite gymnastics move?
Barbara: Beats me.
Joe: The splits!
Joke by Turner F., Yankton, South Dakota

A book never written: “How to Do Gymnastics” by Tom E. Tuck.
Joke by Tyler K., Monponsett, Mass.

Tyler: How do fireflies start a race?
Ted: I don’t know. How?
Tyler: “On your mark. Get set. Glow!”
Joke by Tyler S., Ferndale, Mich.

Zeke: Why were the swimming elephants thrown out of the Olympics?
Kyle: I haven’t a clue.
Zeke: Because they couldn’t keep their trunks up!
Joke by Adam K., Wolcott, Conn.

Peter: Why was the Olympian not able to listen to music?
Matthew: Why?
Peter: Because he broke the record!
Joke by Matthew M., Stone Mountain, Ga.

Jeffrey: Knock, knock.
Joseph: Who’s there?
Jeffrey: Woo.
Joseph: Woo, who?
Jeffrey: What are you cheering for? We didn’t win a medal.

Joke by Jeffrey L., Dayton, Ohio; Comic by Daryll Collins

A book never written: “How to Win at the Olympics” by Vick Tori.
Joke by Ridge S., Manchester, Ga.

Devan: Why did the spotted cat get disqualified from the Olympics?
Evan: Why?
Devan: It was a cheetah.
Joke by Devan T., Shawnee, Kan.

Teacher: Johnny, please use the word “account” in a sentence.
Johnny: Yes, ma’am. “On account of three, we’ll start the race.”
Joke by Scott M., Lyons, Ohio

Jake: What did the hot dog say when it won a gold medal?
Josh: What?
Jake: I’m a wiener!
Joke by Peter H., Danbury, Conn.

Wyatt: Why can’t tomatoes win races against lettuce at the Summer Games?
Steven: Tell me.
Wyatt: Because the lettuce are always a head, and the tomatoes are always trying to ketchup!
Joke by Wyatt S., Newberry, Mich.

Nathan: Why couldn’t the wolf run in the marathon?
Tim: I don’t know.
Nathan: He wasn’t a part of the human race!
Joke by Nathan H., Springfield, Va.

Jack: Why couldn’t the bike finish the Olympic race?
Jon: Why?
Jack: It was two-tired.
Joke by Kyle R., Francesville, Ind.

A book never written: “The Marathon” by Will E. Makit.
Joke by Matthew P., Dennis, Mass.

Parker: What is the best part of an Olympic boxer’s joke?
Harper: Tell me.
Parker: The punch line.
Joke by Parker O., Overland Park, Kan.

Do you know some funny Olympic jokes? Click here to send us your Olympic jokes.

"Laugh at 25 Funny Olympic Jokes" appeared first on Scout Life magazine.

Summer vacation is over, and that’s no laughing matter. But you can go back to the classroom with a smile on your face, thanks to these funny school jokes sent in by Scout Life readers.

Do you know some funny school jokes? Click here to send them to us. You can also laugh at more than 5,000 jokes.

Need study tips or ideas for packing your lunch? Visit our guide for going back to school.

Luke comes home from his first day of school, and his mother asks, “What did you learn today?”

“Not enough,” Luke replies. “They said I have to go back tomorrow.”

Joke submitted by Luke C., Somers, N.Y.

Dad: May I see your report card?
Son: I don’t have it.
Dad: Why not?
Son: I gave it to my friend. He wanted to scare his parents.

Submitted by Ryan M., Norristown, Penn.

Comic by Scott Nickel

James: Why was the computer late for school?
Peter: I’m not sure.
James: He had a hard drive.

Submitted by James W., Laurel, Md.

Christian: What is Harry Potter’s favorite school subject?
Haley: Defense against the dark arts?
Christian: No, it’s spelling.

Submitted by Christian P., Vista, Calif.

Comic by Scott A. Masear

Nate: Why was school easier for cave people?
Kate: Why?
Nate: Because there was no history to study!

Submitted by Nathaniel R., Glendale, Wis.

A book never written: “The Best Subject in School” by Jim Class.

Submitted by Ian B., Howell, N.J.

Comic by Scott Nickel

David: Why did the broom get a poor grade in school?
Dan: I don’t know. Why?
David: Because it was always sweeping during class!

Submitted by David L., Hicksville, N.Y.

A man dug a tunnel out of jail and came up on a preschool playground.

“I’m free! I’m free!” he yelled.

“Big deal,” said a little boy. “I’m 4.”

Submitted by Evan S., Farmington Hills, Mich.

Comic by Scott Nickel

A Punny Book: “Walking to School” by Misty Buss.

Submitted by Preston P., Chattanooga, Tenn.

Devom: What animal doesn’t deserve straight A’s in school?
Shawn: I don’t know.
Devom: A cheetah!

Submitted by Devom B., Eastvale, California

Comic by Scott Nickel

Carter: What do Santa’s elves do in school?
Miley: What?
Carter: Presentations!

Submitted by Carter A., Waterloo, Ill.

Felix: What kind of candy do you find at a school?
Max: I don’t know. What kind?
Felix: Nerds and Smarties.

Submitted by Felix D., Van Nuys, Calif.

Comic by ThomasToons

Nate: A teacher caught a student passing notes in class, but the student didn’t get in trouble.
Caleb: Why not?
Nate: It was music class.

Submitted by Nathaniel C., Manhattan, Kan.

Peter: How did the cheese get hurt at school?
Lily: Not sure. How?
Peter: It was grated too hard.

Submitted by Peter E., Duvall, Wash.

Comic by Pat Lewis

Luke: Why did the M&M go to school?
Stan: I’m stumped.
Luke: Because he really wanted to be a Smartie!

Submitted by Luke C., Somers, N.Y.

Chad: Why do magicians do so well in school?
Josh: I don’t know. Why?
Chad: They’re good at trick questions.

Submitted by Chad N., Firestone, Colo.

Comic by Pat Lewis

Jacob: Why was the teacher wearing sunglasses to school?
Leonard: Why?
Jacob: She had bright students!

Submitted by Jacob B., South Bend, Ind.

A book never written: “High School Math” by Cal Q. Luss.

Submitted by Josh A., Los Angeles, Calif.

Comic by Harley Schwadron

A book never written: “When Does School Start?” by Wendy Belrings.

Submitted by Alex M., Ashland, Mass.

Joe: What’s the king of all school supplies?
Moe: I don’t know. What?
Joe: The ruler.

Submitted by Connor B., Metairie, La.

Comic by Scott Nickel

Tom Swiftie: “We have too many quizzes in school!” Tom said testily.

Submitted by Brian C., Snohomish, Wash.

Teacher: Class, we will have only half a day of school this morning.
Class: Hooray!
Teacher: We will have the other half this afternoon.

Submitted by Kyle S., Chesapeake, Va.

Comic by Scott Masear

Stevie: Hey, Mom, I got a hundred in school today!
Mom: That’s great. What in?
Stevie: A 40 in Reading and a 60 in Spelling.

Submitted by Zachary D. G., Rutherford, N.J.

Hunter: What has given Mr. Bubbles nightmares since elementary school?
Josh: Beats me.
Hunter: Pop quizzes!

Submitted by Sean G., Kailua, Hawaii

Comic by Bob Vojtko

What kind of school do you go to if you’re…
…an ice cream man? Sundae school.
…a giant? High school.
…a surfer? Boarding school.
…King Arthur? Knight school.

School jokes submitted by Ryan K., North Platte, Neb.

Mom: What did you do at school today?
Mark: We did a guessing game.
Mom: But I thought you were having a math exam.
Mark: That’s right!

Submitted by Adam P., Wichita, Kan.

Comic by Scott Masear

Teacher: Donald, what is the chemical formula for water?
Donald: H-I-J-K-L-M-N-O.
Teacher: What are you talking about?
Donald: Yesterday you said it was H to O.

Submitted by Caleb R., Jackson, Mich.

Teacher: Daniel, I’ve had to send you to the principal every day this week. What do you have to say for yourself?
Daniel: I’m glad it’s Friday!

Submitted by Martin R., Belmont, Mass.

Comic by ThomasToons

Phil: What makes a Cyclops such an effective teacher?
Cheryl: I don’t know.
Phil: He has only one pupil.

Submitted by Colin C., Kansas City, Mo.

Teacher: Where are the Great Plains located?
Tommy: At the great airports!

Submitted by Nicholas G., South Range, Wis.

Comic by Scott Nickel

Teacher: If you had 13 apples, 12 grapes, 3 pineapples and 3 strawberries, what would you have?
Billy: A delicious fruit salad.

Submitted by Harry B., Longmeadow, Mass.

Math teacher: A man from Los Angeles drove toward New York at 250 miles per hour and a man from New York drove toward Los Angeles at 150 m.p.h. Where did they meet?
Johnny: In jail!

Submitted by Glenn J., Santa Ana, Calif.

Comic by Van Scott

Teacher: Tommy, can you tell us where the Declaration of Independence was signed?
Tommy: Yes, ma’am. At the bottom.

Submitted by Luke M., Morganton, N.C.

Jordan: My teacher says I have to write more clearly.
Mom: That’s a good idea, Jordan.
Jordan: No, it’s not. Then she’ll know I can’t spell.

Submitted by Jordan R., Nashville, Tenn.

Comic by Scott Masear

Peter: What’s the difference between a teacher and a train?
Ted: What?
Peter: A teacher says, “Spit out that gum!” and a train says, “Chew! Chew!”

Submitted by Ted S., Lisle, Ill.

Teacher: Can anyone give me a sentence with a direct object?
Student: You are pretty.
Teacher: What’s the direct object?
Student: A good report card.

Submitted by Samuel E., Coweta, Okla.

Comic by Scott Masear

Teacher: Why can’t you work in an orange juice factory?
Student: I don’t know. Why?
Teacher: Because you can’t concentrate!

Submitted by Caleb S., Mount Vernon, Mo.

Johnny: Teacher, would you punish me for something I didn’t do?
Teacher: Of course not.
Johnny: Good, because I didn’t do my homework.

Submitted by Alex D., Chevy Chase, Md.

Comic by Scott Masear

John: Knock, knock.
Justin: Who’s there?
John: Gladys.
Justin: Gladys, who?
John: Gladys the weekend—no homework!

School joke submitted by John S., Farmington, Ga.

Teacher: Why did you eat your homework, Joe?
Joe: Because I don’t have a dog.

Submitted by Austin C., Bowie, Md.

Do you know more funny school jokes? Click here to send it to us.

"50 Funny Back-To-School Jokes" appeared first on Scout Life magazine.

What’s going on in this picture? What is that kitten doing or thinking?

If you can think of a funny caption for this photo, just post it in the comment form at the bottom of this page. After we approve it, your funny caption will be on this page for everyone to read.

Click here to write captions for more funny photos.

"Write a Funny Caption For This Photo" appeared first on Scout Life magazine.

With this simple project, you’ll be outside playing mini golf in no time. Build your course with any available combination of bricks, wood, aluminum siding … whatever works.

A backyard mini golf course is best played with a croquet set, because the balls are larger and easier to control, but golf equipment is fine, too, especially for advanced players.

No backyard? Try making a bottle-cap disc-golf game. You can also play mini golf online!

WHAT YOU’LL NEED TO MAKE A DIY MINI GOLF COURSE

You or a neighbor might have some 2-by-4’s or a stack of cinderblocks behind the garage, or ask at a construction site if you can haul away some of their cast-off masonry and lumber. Go to a hardware store for everything else you need or to pick up a few extras.

Total cost for your backyard mini golf course depends on your own resourcefulness, the size of your course and the complexity of each hole. Common red cement bricks sell for as little as 22 cents apiece; count on buying at least 100. Also look for things like a roll of chicken wire (about $5), 20 gardening stakes ($6) and a few boards ($15 max.).

Innovation is the key. Experiment. You might build one mini golf hole in 15 minutes but invest an hour in the next, carefully aligning a series of ramps or cutting doors in a cardboard box.

There’s no need to mess up the yard — use a croquet stake, a wicket or even just a piece of duct tape on the ground as your “hole.”

Here are three classic mini golf designs to get you started.

THE MAZE: Par 5

Tools: None

Materials: About 43 bricks, five heavier cinderblocks

1. Begin at the entrance, setting bricks in two parallel lines. The central island of cinderblocks is angled so that golfers are directed toward the right side of the maze (and into the pocket trap, if they strike too hard).

2. The cinderblocks go wherever a player is expected to bank his shots, since they’ll withstand impact better.

3. The “short cut” to the left is barely wider than a ball and can be reached only with a perfect set-up. Otherwise, players continue around to the right, where they can get an excellent double-bank shot off the two blocks in back.

4. Note the second pocket trap and the four bricks stacked as a guard in front of the finish.

TUNNEL IN THE SKY: Par 4

Tools: Wire cutters or pliers and a saw

Materials: About 50 bricks, six cinderblocks, a 3-foot-long roll of wire, two 3-foot-by-1-foot planks, one leftover piece of plank

1. Loosen the wire roll so that it becomes a tube, more than big enough for a ball to go through. Secure the tube by bending in a few loose ends with wire cutters or pliers.

2. Carefully size your planks and assemble the tunnel, using twin towers of two cinderblocks each.

3. In front, the plank should rest on top of the block tower, creating a small lip, so balls drop slightly into the wire tube. In back, the second plank must be level with the top of the tower, so support it underneath with an extra cinderblock.

4. Arrange your bricks in channels on either end of the tunnel. The front is a simple L-shape, with a cinderblock embankment at the corner. The back is more wide open, with a “ricochet” plank or another cinderblock set below the downhill ramp.

JUMP BALL: Par 2

Tools: None

Materials: About 27 bricks, 5 1/2 cinderblocks, boards or plywood at least 6 feet by 2 feet.

1. Build a tower of three blocks, lean your ramp against it and set a few guide bricks on each side.

2. Try a few practice shots, testing for range.

3. Set the finish with 2 1⁄2 cinderblocks in a wall behind it as a backstop. Place the rest of the bricks to complete the square around the finish, leaving two narrow entrances on either side.

4. Make this mini golf hole more difficult — Par 4 — by elevating the front wall with extra material to prevent low balls from bouncing over.

This design puts the finish more than 20 feet from the ramp — have some fun launching a ball that far!

OTHER IDEAS FOR HOLES

Bumper Ball is any channel that has been randomly spiked to make a forest of obstacles. Use tent stakes, croquet wickets or gardening stakes.

The Chute is a variant of Tunnel in the Sky, with only one tower and ramp, using either five-inch drain pipe or a length of rain gutter to lead back to earth.

The Mousetrap is a big open-topped cardboard box, properly weighted down, with two or more doors cut into its face but only one way out.

Tidal Wave is a series of low ramps to jump across.

Volcano is a ramp that must be finessed, with the finish directly below the edge of the ramp.

Shotgun is a long open space with three narrow courseways on the far side, all but one of which are pocket traps.

The Long Maze might run to par 10 and is hilarious for croquet rules as players battle and hunt each other among the twists and turns.

SCORING AND RULES FOR BACKYARD MINI GOLF

Par is the term for the average number of stokes it takes to complete a golf hole. Always set par at a number that can reasonably be bested by one stroke. This score, one below par, is called a Birdie. On the Maze hole, if a player is able to get into the shortcut, he might finish in four strokes. Therefore, this design is a Par 5.

A backyard mini golf course can be played in many ways.

Golf rules means the player with the lowest total strokes is the winner.

Croquet rules means the first player to reach the end of the course takes the trophy — and by striking another player’s ball, you earn an extra turn (or you can use it to smack that ball into an unfavorable spot).

Before you start, set all rules in stone. If a ball shoots sideways off Tunnel in the Sky, can that player take a “drop” back inside the brick walls? Does that cost him an extra stroke? Or does he have to work all the way back around to the entrance? Is there a maximum number of strokes at each hole (at amusement parks, it’s usually six) or do you play on until you’re successful, no matter the challenge?

It’s your game — you make the rules.

"How to Build a Backyard Mini Golf Course" appeared first on Scout Life magazine.

Here’s what you’ll find inside the August 2024 issue of Scout Life magazine. Remember, many articles are only available to subscribers and are not available online.

Please visit scoutlife.org/subscribe to subscribe to the print or digital editions of Scout Life magazine.

AUGUST 2024 FEATURES

SURF’S UP!

California troops catch some waves at an annual surfing campout.

• California Troops Catch Some Waves at Annual Surfing Campout

THE NATURE CREW: CICADAS

Making summer magical.

• Cicadas: Making Summer Magical

BORDER TO BORDER

Scouts recreate an epic journey across North Carolina.

• Scouts Re-Create an Epic Border-to-Border Trek Across North Carolina

SCOUTING AROUND: CAVING

A cave is a naturally formed underground void that has rooms and passages. They are fun and exciting places to explore.

• Visit the Scouting Around blog

HOW TO BUILD IT: BEE HOTEL

• How to Use a Can to Make a Bee Hotel for Solitary Bees

AND MORE!

Look for the regular score of comics, jokes, games, Scouts in Action and more! Only in the August 2024 issue of Scout Life!

• Wacky Adventures @Scout Life
• Pee Wee Harris
• Scouts in Action
• More S.I.A.

"Inside the August 2024 Issue" appeared first on Scout Life magazine.

Shark trivia! Dive into the jaws of fun and test your shark smarts! Our shark quiz is a jaw-some way to discover amazing facts about these incredible marine creatures. So grab your snorkel, and get ready to sink your teeth into our fin-tastic trivia quiz!

Once you’ve finished the quiz, check out a photo gallery of shark-themed Pinewood Derby cars, learn 8 fast facts about sharks, and laugh at funny shark jokes!

"Take the Fin-tastic Shark Trivia Quiz!" appeared first on Scout Life magazine.

Whether you’re a fan of fishy humor or just need a good chuckle, these shark jokes are sure to reel you in. So grab a bigger boat and get ready for a tidal wave of laughter!

Do you have a funny shark joke? Send us your jokes!

You can also check our gallery of shark-themed Pinewood Derby cars and some fun facts about sharks.

Comic by Scott Nickel

Cameron: What did the shark eat for lunch?
Morgan: I’m stumped.
Cameron: A peanut butter and jellyfish sandwich.

Joke by Cameron F., Great Falls, Virginia

Drake: What do you get when you cross a snowman and a shark?
Dylan: No idea.
Drake: Frostbite.

Joke by Drake L., Charlotte, North Carolina

Austin: What did the shark say when it ate the clownfish?
Angela: I don’t know.
Austin: “This tastes a little funny.”

Joke by Austin H., Atlanta, Georgia

Comic by Harley Schwadron

Silas: What do you say to a shark with headphones on?
Simon: I don’t know.
Silas: Anything you want. It won’t hear you.

Joke by Silas E., Deland, Florida

Dylan: What kind of vitamins do sharks eat?
Aaron: No idea.
Dylan: Vitamin sea.

Joke by Dylan L., Shrewsbury, Massachusetts

Connor: Which country do sharks come from?
Landon: Which one?
Connor: Finland.

Joke by Connor K., Matthews, North Carolina

Comic by Scott Masear

Troy: What’d the ocean say to the shark?
A.J.: Tell me.
Troy: Nothing. It just waved!

Joke by Andrew T., Allen, Texas

A book never written: “Exploring the Ocean’s Depths” by Sandy Bottom.

Joke by Ryan C., Fairfax Station, Virginia

Casen: What do you call a shark that delivers toys at Christmas?
Austin: I don’t know. I’m stumped!
Casen: Santa Jaws!

Joke by Casen S., Tyler, Texas

Comic by Thomas Toons

Jon: How does a shark pay its water bill?
Jay: I haven’t a clue.
Jon: With sand dollars.

Joke by Jon M., Central Point, Oregon

A book never written: “Scuba Diving Is Perfectly Safe” by Ima Shark.

Joke by Chris M., Darien, Illinois.

Peter: What’s the best tool in the ocean?
Jake: Tell me.
Peter: A hammerhead shark.

Joke by Peter S., Fairfax, Virginia

Comic by Jon Carter

Chris: Why did the shark cross the ocean?
Craig: I don’t know.
Chris: To get to the other tide.

Joke by Christopher R., Temple, Texas

Linda: Why do sharks swim in salt water?
Keith: Tell me.
Linda: Because pepper makes them sneeze.

Joke by Christopher H., Strasburg, Colorado

Sam: Imagine you’re on a deserted island surrounded by sharks. No civilization in sight. How do you get off?
Pam: How?
Sam: Stop imagining!

Joke by Kyle K., Waimanalo, Hawaii

Comic by Scott Nickel

Gavin: What do you get from an angry shark?
Aaron: What?
Gavin: As far away as possible!

Joke by Aaron Q., Carlsbad, California

Max: What kind of shark kills its prey with words?
Michael: Beats me.
Max: A yammer-head!

Joke by Maxwell P., Carmichael, California

John: What do you get when you mix a shark with a pig?
Max: I don’t know.
John: Bacon bits!

Joke by Justin M., Monterey, Massachusetts

Allen: Why don’t shark play basketball?
Helen: Tell me.
Allen: Because they’re afraid of nets.

Joke by Allen L., Cupertino, California

Luke: What’s a shark’s favorite game?
Lon: What?
Luke: Swallow the leader.

Joke by Lucas H., Mooresville, North Carolina

Nicholas: Why did the shark blush?
Tommy: I haven’t a clue.
Nicholas: Because it saw the ocean’s bottom!

Joke by Nicholas P., Fort Myers, Florida

A pirate and a sailor were exchanging stories. The sailor pointed to the pirate’s peg leg and asked, “How did you get that?”

The pirate said, “Aye, I wrestled a shark and lost me leg.”

The sailor pointed to the pirate’s hook and asked, “How did you get that?”

The pirate said: “Aye, I fought Red Beard’s crew and lost me hand.”

The sailor pointed to the pirate’s eye patch and asked, “How did you get that?”

The pirate said, “Aye, a bird came by and left droppings in me eye.”

The sailor said, “That’s not as impressive as the other two…”

“Aye,” the pirate answered. “It was me first day with the hook.”

Joke by Gregory W., Newark, New York

Doug: What do you get when you cross elephants with sharks?
Darrell: I don’t know.
Doug: Swimming trunks.

Joke by Doug B., Sharpsville, Indiana

Daniel: What do sharks sing during winter?
Josh: What?
Daniel: Christmas corals.

Joke by Daniel L., Durham, North Carolina

"Laugh at 30 Funny Shark Jokes and Comics" appeared first on Scout Life magazine.

An empty tin can could help provide nesting sites for solitary bees. This bee hotel design mimics the types of structures they like to use. As pollinators, solitary bees help the environment thrive.

Want to make something more permanent? We also have step-by-step instructions for building a wooden bee house.

WHAT YOU’LL NEED

• 15 sheets of construction paper
• Can opener
• Empty tin can (at least 4 to 6 inches deep)
• Glue
• Pencil
• Ruler
• Scissors
• Tape
• Toilet paper or paper towel rolls
• Twigs or dry grass
• Two 12-inch pieces of string
• One 36-inch piece of string
• Art supplies to decorate (optional)

WHAT YOU’LL DO TO BUILD A BEE HOTEL

Step 1: Carefully use a can opener to remove the top of a tin can. Empty, clean and dry the inside. Optional: If you want to decorate your bee hotel, use art supplies before moving to the next step.

Step 2: Cut 15 sheets of construction paper in half. Make sure each piece is a bit shorter than the tin can.

Step 3: Roll your paper around a pencil and secure it with tape. Gently remove the pencil. Repeat this until you have about 30 rolls. Make more if needed.

Step 4: Cover the inside bottom of the can with glue, and stick the toilet paper roll inside. If you’re using a paper towel roll, cut it in half before inserting. Place the thinner tubes inside. The roll will help keep them snug. Don’t squish the tubes!

Step 5: Place the twigs or dry grass around the rolls in the open spaces. This helps hold everything in place and provides insulation.

Step 6: Tie a 12-inch piece of string around each end of the can. Pass the 36-inch piece of string between the can and each of the other pieces of string. Tie the ends together, forming a loop to hang your bee hotel.

Step 7: Time to hang your bee hotel! With an adult’s help, find a tree or bush in a sunny location. Ensure the branch holding the hotel is sturdy so it doesn’t fall. Carefully check the bee hotel regularly to clean out any debris or dead insects. Replace nesting materials if they become damaged or moldy.

Now that you’re done with your bee hotel, laugh at funny bee jokes, check out nature-related Eagle Scout projects, or learn more about insects.

"How to Use a Can to Make a Bee Hotel for Solitary Bees" appeared first on Scout Life magazine.

Leatherworking is a fun and creative craft where people make things out of leather, like belts, wallets, and bags. There are different types of leather, each with its own special qualities that make it good for certain projects.

Here are five popular types of leathers, what makes them unique, and what kinds of things you can make with them. Understanding these leathers will help you choose the best one for your next project.

TYPES OF LEATHER

1. COWHIDE: Cowhide is the most common and versatile leather. It’s durable and easy to work with, and is used for items such as footwear, furniture, car upholstery, saddles, tack, pouches, handbags and belts.

2. PIGSKIN: Pigskin has a coarse-grain texture and is used for shoe linings, small leather goods and garments.

3. DEER SKIN: Deer skin is soft and stretchy. It is ideal for items such as moccasins, gloves and other clothing accessories.

4. KANGAROO: Kangaroo leather is stronger weight-for-weight than any other leather. It is used for soccer shoes and sports gloves.

5. REPTILE LEATHERS: Reptile leathers include snake, lizard, alligator and crocodile, and are used for boots, shoes, belts, wallets and handbags.

You can learn more about the different types of leather by earning the Leatherwork merit badge.

"Learn About 5 Types of Leather Used in Leatherworking" appeared first on Scout Life magazine.

If you’ve never seen cicadas, you’ve definitely heard them. These chunky, bulgy-eyed, large-winged insects have an ear-splitting sound.

The cicada (say: suh-KAA-duh or suh-KAY-duh) is a bug that people either love or hate. We fall into the love category, knowing their rhythmic songs are a sure sign of summer.

CICADAS JOURNEY FROM GROUND TO SURFACE

There are more than 3,000 species of cicadas worldwide, with about 170 species in the U.S. Cicadas live in temperate or tropical regions of all continents except Antarctica. Most are in forested areas and rely on trees for survival. A few species inhabit prairies or grasslands.

Most are an inch or two long, but the smallest in North America is the 1/2-inch aridland cicada in the Southwest. The largest cicada in the world lives in Southeast Asia, is 3 inches long and has an 8-inch wingspan!

Cicadas live most of their lives underground in their immature stage, called a nymph. They feed on liquid from plant roots, but they don’t cause much harm to the plants. As adults, they still have only a liquid diet of plant sap. After their nymph stage is over, they burrow up through the ground to the surface.

After crawling to find a solid object to climb, such as a tree, fence or car tire (anything touching the ground is fair game!), they begin to molt, which takes about an hour. Their skin cracks open and the new adult crawls out, with big, strong wings. You might have seen their husky brown skins left behind.

Periodical cicadas have the longest life cycle of any insect.

SING OUT LOUD

Cicadas typically live only four to six weeks, so they have to get noticed fast to mate. The best way to do that is by being loud! Males sing, or drum, from trees to attract females. The loudest of the bunch is an African cicada, coming in at 107 decibels — almost as loud as a chainsaw! Several North American species are nearly as loud. They make this sound with structures called tymbal organs, located on their abdomen. There is space around these organs where the air vibrates to make sounds.

The males also drum when in danger. Cicadas are harmless. They don’t bite or sting and they don’t have venom or poison, so their only defense is screaming loudly. This is a response to make a predator leave or drop them. If you approach a tree when a cicada is singing, it will typically get quiet, but if you pick it up, you’ll get an earful!

Annual cicada

CICADA MAGIC

Most cicadas are what biologists call annual cicadas. These live only 1 to 5 years, mostly underground. The few remaining species are called periodical cicadas, which come out of the ground in huge numbers.

Worldwide, there are only seven species of periodical cicadas, found solely in the eastern and central U.S. These live for many years underground — in periods of 13 or 17 years — before emerging. There are 15 different cycles or “broods” of periodical cicadas. Each brood can be made up of several species.

Scientists aren’t sure why periodical cicadas have this odd life cycle, but it might be due to long periods of cold thousands of years ago. In addition, the range map of the 17-year broods matches closely with glacier movements of the last Ice Age. Why periodical cicadas still follow these patterns today is unknown. Maybe it makes it less likely that predators will anticipate when there is an eruption. Regardless of why, periodical cicadas’ life cycle is so amazing that biologists placed them in the genus Magicicada. Indeed, they are magical!

By creating a surge of millions or even billions at one time, emerging all at once gives periodical broods a big advantage. This overwhelms predators and makes it impossible for all the cicadas to be eaten, ensuring plenty survive to reproduce.

If there are no periodical cicadas where you live, don’t fret! There are many annual species in your area. Just keep an ear out for their drumming. Different species have different sounds that can be learned, just like bird songs. Getting to know cicadas is a great way to introduce yourself to the amazing world of insects!

2024 Cicadapocalypse!

In 2024 there has been a special emergence of two broods of periodical cicadas (13- and 17-year) in parts of the U.S. The last time these two broods — Brood XIX and Brood XIII — erupted at the same time was in 1803, when Thomas Jefferson was president!

There are an incredible number of periodical cicadas around. Biologists predict there could be a trillion. Some are even calling this event a “cicadapocalypse”!

4 FAST FACTS ABOUT CICADAS

1. Some places might have so many cicadas that people have to shovel the carcasses from roads! This happened in Chicago 17 years ago when Brood XIII last emerged.

Green leafhopper

2. Cicadas are not locusts, which are a type of grasshopper. Cicadas are most closely related to leafhoppers, treehoppers and spittlebugs, although much larger.

3. Periodical cicadas are somewhat smaller and darker than annuals and have bright red eyes. Annuals are typically more green and brown overall with greenish to brownish eyes.

4. A main predator of cicadas is the cicada-killer wasp. The females paralyze and carry off live cicadas to their burrows, where larvae feed on them. You might see one of these wasps dragging a stunned cicada. Watch long enough and you might find the entrance to their several-foot-long burrows.

Bats and birds are their specialties, but wildlife biologists Selena Birgit Kiser and Mark Kiser love all species of critters. Both have worked for the State of Florida and previously worked for Bat Conservation International on such programs as the Great Florida Birding and Wildlife Trail and the North American Bat House Research Project.

"Cicadas: Making Summer Magical" appeared first on Scout Life magazine.

Sarah Marks coasts on a wave at Surf Camp, an annual Troops 506 campout.

Patrick Kozak watched the waves. They weren’t as tall as they had been early that morning, but some still reached a couple feet high before breaking into frothy whitewash. He could definitely ride them.

This was his second time at Surf Camp, a yearly tradition for linked Troops 506 of La Jolla, California. It’s the most relaxing campout of the year — hanging out with friends, playing games and splashing around in the ocean. But the adrenaline starts pumping when you’re on your surfboard and a good wave approaches.

“I was catching some of the waves, but I was falling off of them,” the 14-year-old First Class Scout says. “It’s still fun to catch one. I hope I can get good enough.”

All it takes is practice, which requires a lot of wipeouts. Even if they didn’t conquer massive barreling waves by the end of the weekend, the Scouts still had fun.

“Every day on the water is a good day,” says Nolan Hood, 17, a Life Scout.

Nolan Hood practices a trick move by starting on one board before jumping to a smaller surfboard.

SAFETY FIRST AT SURFING CAMPOUT

La Jolla is on the Southern California coast, so some Scouts in the troop have become well-versed in aquatics from lifeguard training and surfing with friends and family.

Adult leader Brian Catanzaro reviews surfing safety before the Scouts get into the water.

In preparation for Surf Camp every fall, the troop reviews surfing safety, studying the dangers of rip currents, underwater hazards and stinging animals like jellyfish and stingrays.

“Surfing has a learning curve,” says Marcus Catanzaro, 16, a Life Scout. “We go through the swim test. We go over safety aspects on dry land.”

Amaya Pfister tried surfing for the first time at Surf Camp

The troop camped within walking distance of the beach — close enough that they could hear the ocean. They leisurely got up, enjoyed doughnuts the adult leaders bought, and practiced surfing techniques on land before wading into the water.

“It’s hard to get up on your board, so you practice on the sand,” says Second Class Scout Beatrice Nicholson, 13. “There’s a way you can practice lying down and then getting to your feet in one smooth motion.”

When the Scouts felt ready, they grabbed their boards and got in.

Left: Eris Pfister surfs on a foam longboard, riding the waves all the way to the shore at Surf Camp. Right: Alex Markworth catches a wave on two boards. His plan: Jump from one board to the other without falling!

MAKING WAVES

Your surfboard matters. Longboards — which measure 8 feet and more — work best on big waves, while shortboards — about 5 to 7 feet long — let you move around quicker and easier.

“If it’s a lower tide, the shortboards are more maneuverable,” says Life Scout Alex Markworth, 16. “With longer boards, it’s speed and enjoying the wave rather than riding it out.”

Ultimately, it’s personal preference of how you want to attack the surf and how much you want to spend. Shortboards made of polyurethane foam cost a couple hundred dollars, while prices for fiberglass longboards can reach about $1,000.

Max Hayfen rides a wave on his boogie board.

You can also use a bodyboard or “boogie board” to ride across the waves, but you aren’t standing up on these since they’re often 2 to 3 feet long. Or you can go without a board at all.

“I wanted to try body surfing,” says Emma Zackowski, 13, a First Class Scout. “Body surfing is where you don’t have a board — you just ride the wave by yourself.”

Wind often creates waves while sandbars and underwater reefs can alter the shape and intensity of the waves. During the campout, the ocean offered small waves with whitewash to ride through; however, a few big ones formed, too.

Left: Emma Zackowski splashes through a wave. Right: Sarah Marks drops in on a wave.

“It was good for the variety of surfers we had,” Alex says.

When Scouts weren’t trying to ride the waves, they were paddling over to a lagoon outflow, which created a lazy river where they could float.

“Surf Camp is fun,” says Jacob Jones, 16, a Star Scout. “You just go and chill out there.”

Trevor Forrest and Massimo De Soto paddle up a lagoon outflow.

JUST CHILLIN’ AT SURFING CAMPOUT

Surfing wasn’t the only item on the troop’s agenda at the surfing campout. There were also card games, flying disc games, volleyball, bracelet-making, pizza, guitar-playing and hanging out by the campfire. Some Scouts worked on their Totin’ Chip or the San Diego-Imperial Council Wave Rider award, an honor focused on the basics of surfing and bodyboarding. For the Wave Rider award, Scouts study surfing safety and demonstrate certain techniques.

Amaya Pfister (left) and Jacqueline Long take a break from the waves. Jacqueline worked as a junior lifeguard for several years, which helped her gain confidence in the water.

“I only have two years of surfing. It’s gotten easier,” says Eris Pfister, 12, a Scout. “It’s like snowboarding: It’s hard, but once you get the hang of it, you get the hang of it.”

And even if you haven’t gotten the hang of it by the end of the weekend, you can go to Surf Camp again next year to enjoy activities, both on land and in the sea.

“It’s definitely one of my favorite campouts,” says Amaya Pfister, 14, a First Class Scout.

Massimo De Soto celebrates riding a great wave.

A Rare Sight

The weekend Troop 506 went surfing coincided with an annular solar eclipse. A solar eclipse occurs when the moon passes between the sun and Earth, blocking sunlight. Unlike total eclipses, during which the moon completely covers the sun, an outer ring of the sun remains visible during annular eclipses.

Phoebe Yasuhara views the solar eclipse.

To protect their eyes, the Scouts used solar eclipse glasses and built an eclipse viewer.

“We saw the eclipse looking through a cereal box,” says Eagle Scout Emilio De Soto, 13. “It’s easy to make. The sun shines through, and you can basically see a dot on a white piece of paper.”

"California Troops Catch Some Waves at Annual Surfing Campout" appeared first on Scout Life magazine.

Crossing a state line can be a big moment, like when you leave your home state for the first time. Or maybe it serves as a milestone during a cross-country road trip.

For a group of 21 Scouts, reaching the South Carolina state line marked the end of an impressive 170-mile trek, during which they hiked, biked and paddled across North Carolina.

“It was breathtaking,” says Kayla Oxendine, 17, a Life Scout from Troop 1447 of Laurinburg, N.C. “Crossing the line seemed so unreal. It felt kind of weird, like ‘this is it.’ We were a bit sad.”

The moment capped off an amazing and rare accomplishment, though it wasn’t the first time Scouts had done this. In 1966, Troop 513 of Whiteville, N.C., trekked from the north side of the state to the south. Those Scouts, now in their 60s and 70s, greeted last summer’s crew at the state line, where they all crossed it together.

Scouts walk their bicycles across the South Carolina state line after a 170-mile journey, re-creating a trek that a troop did in 1966. Seven of the 1966 hikers joined last year’s group to cross the state line together.

RE-CREATING THE TREK

On most weekends in the 1960s, Troop 513 went camping at local farms and parks, where they’d build rope bridges, go hiking and work on merit badges.

“We’re 513; we don’t do normal things,” says Ronnie McNeill, whose father, John, organized the 1966 trek.

That weeklong backpacking trek taught the Scouts how to face adversity. The boys hiked at least 20 miles most days of the trek.

“These things are as much mental as they are physical,” says Sandy McNeill. “What you set your mind to, you can do.”

Troop 513 and a few friends from other troops during the 1966 hike. Scouts carried caution flags for safety during the hike.

Scouts today are determined and brave, too. The Cape Fear Council recruited eager Scouts from several units to re-create the 1966 march.

This one took two years to plan, as the small dirt roads had morphed into busy highways.

Not only did council leaders figure out a safe route, but they also added to the trip. These Scouts weren’t just going to backpack; they would also ride bikes, go canoeing, and stop by a zoo and racetrack.

“It was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity,” says MacKenzie Sanford, 15, a Life Scout from Troop 1447. “It was such an adventure that I couldn’t miss it.”

Scouts cycle on the second day of the trek near Swepsonville, N.C. From right: David Ladd of Troop 447 in Laurinburg, N.C.; Benjamin Wylubski of Troop 210 in Carolina Beach, N.C.; and Jesse Kegley of Troop 444 in Laurinburg.

ACROSS THE STATE

To prepare for any challenging outing, you must get physically strong. The Scouts went on three shakedowns to practice hiking and biking and review their needed gear. Then they all met at Cherokee Scout Reservation to get to know each other and relax before the trip began near Danville, Virginia.

Unlike the 1966 trip, the majority of the travel would be on bicycle — that way, the Scouts could cover up to 50 miles in a day. The first day, though, was on foot.

Scouts hike after departing from the Virginia state line.

“The first day was a little tough for some people,” says William Clements, 17, an Eagle Scout from Troop 102 of Boiling Spring Lakes, N.C. “They did themselves good by training for it. It was a good eyeopener.”

Adult leaders escorted the Scouts to ensure their safety. They inspected the bikes, adjusted the route as needed and monitored the weather, which included rain every day.

“We learned about wet brake pads and water spraying in your face,” says David Ladd, 16, an Eagle Scout with Troop 447 of Laurinburg. “We had to take hills a lot slower.”

The group wore brightly colored activity uniforms while hiking along roads to stand out to drivers

Staying safe was paramount, as was staying positive. The miles became more painful as the journey slogged on, so Scouts needed to help each other.

“There were two Scouts at the back. One asked me to hike with him because he needed some moral support,” David says.

An encouraging chat can help fuel you to soldier on. The group also found motivation from other sources along the way.

Left: Logan Leach (left) of Troop 460 in Raeford, N.C., paddles with Tucker Hedblom of Troop 38 in Southport, N.C. Right: Scouts paddle to shore. Canoeing made up the least of the trek’s miles, but it offered a lot of chances for fun and viewing wildlife.

MEANINGFUL MOMENTS

The group spent the nights at Scout camps and county parks, ending each day with a satisfying Dutch oven dinner. One evening, it was chicken and dumplings.

“We went for fourths that night,” Kayla says.

Enjoying a tasty meal, spotting a bald eagle while canoeing, taking a break to savor an ice pop — the little moments put smiles on the Scouts’ faces. As did the big moments, like riding their bikes around the track at Rockingham Speedway or visiting the North Carolina Zoo.

Every day, William counted how many people waved, honked or cheered at the group. By the end of the trek, he had counted more than 300.

“The people were so encouraging; it was awesome to see how good the world is,” William says. “It meant so much. A lot of the Scouts might’ve been having a tough time, and then we get a nice little reminder that we’re doing something awesome.”

The original crew stops at the state line at the end of the journey in 1966.

CROSSING THE LINE

When the group reached the southern line near Hamlet, N.C., they were greeted by seven members of the 1966 trek, who crossed the state line with them.

“As a group effort, for the sweat and tears, hiking across the state was something I have never forgotten,” says Vinson Bowers, who hiked with his friends in Troop 513. “The excitement of crossing that line, it was a great time.”

Some of the 1966 hikers — Vinson Bowers, Sandy McNeill, George McNeill, Charles McNeill, Coke Gray, Ronnie McNeill and Greg Blackman — pose with last year’s crew at the state line.

“It was definitely an amazing moment,” MacKenzie says. “Now I love high adventure.”

At a ceremony afterward, the council had mementos for the Scouts: commemorative medals, shoulder patches and certificates.

“We’ll be able to cherish those for the next 60 years until the next group does it,” David says.

"Scouts Re-Create an Epic Border-to-Border Trek Across North Carolina" appeared first on Scout Life magazine.

Once you’re done laughing at these cat jokes, visit jokes.scoutlife.org for thousands more funny jokes.

Comic by Scott Nickel

Two robins stuffed themselves with worms until they were too fat to fly. Since the birds couldn’t go anywhere, they decided to just sit and soak up the sun.

Along came a cat, and it ate them.

Licking its paws, the cat said, “I just love baskin’ robins!”

Submitted by Johnny K., Broken Arrow, Okla.

Mom No. 1: How do you get your sleepy-head son up in the morning?
Mom No. 2: I just put the cat on the bed.
Mom No. 1: How does that help?
Mom No. 2: The dog’s already there.

Submitted by Stephen C., Salem, Va.

Comic by Scott Nickel

Adam: Who delivers presents to cats?
Jim: Who?
Adam: Santa Claws!

Submitted by Adam M., Kansas City, Mo.

Matt: Knock, knock.
Jake: Who’s there?
Matt: Kitten.
Jake: Kitten, who?
Matt: Quit kitten around and open the door!

Submitted by Joshua P., Brighton, Mich.

Comic by Scott Nickel

Caleb: What do you call a cat that bowls?
John: I don’t know.
Caleb: An alley cat!

Submitted by Caleb D.

Bob: How do you make a cat happy?
Bill: I don’t know.
Bob: Send it to the Canary Islands!

Submitted by Drew B., McMinnville, Ore.

Comic by Scott Nickel

Sterling: What’s a cat’s favorite game?
Cooper: What?
Sterling: Mouse Trap.

Submitted by Sterling P., La Jolla, Calif.

Ethan: What’s a cat’s favorite color?
John: What is it?
Ethan: Purrr-ple!

Submitted by Ethan C., Huntersville, N.C.

Comic by Harley Schwadron

Gerik: Why do you have to be careful when it rains cats and dogs?
Derek: I don’t know.
Gerik: So you don’t step in a poodle!

Submitted by Gerik M., Nevada City, Calif.

Charlie: What do you call a dishonest African cat?
Thomas: I have no idea.
Charlie: A “lyin’ cub.”

Submitted by Matthew K., Ellicott City, Md.

Comic by Scott Nickel

Will: What do you get when you cross an angry cat with a famous painter?
Willow: I haven’t the foggiest.
Will: Clawed Monet!

Submitted by Willow P., Hartfield, Va.

George: What do cats say when they get hurt?
Jeff: Tell me.
George: “Me-OW!”

Submitted by George Y., San Ramon, Calif.

Comic by Scott Masear

Nathan: Why was the cat so small?
Ethan: I have no idea.
Nathan: It ate only condensed milk!

Submitted by Nathan B., Carrollton, Ga.

Caleb: What does Christmas have to do with a cat lost in the desert?
Ben: Beats me.
Caleb: They both have sandy claws.

Submitted by Joshua H., Seminole, Fla.

Comic by Bob Vojtko

Tony: Where do cats write down their notes?
Joannie: I dunno.
Tony: On scratch paper!

Submitted by Tony Z., Orange Park, Fla.

Matt: What do you call a very poor cat?
Kate: No idea. What?
Matt: A “paw-purr.”

Submitted by Matthew D., The Colony, Tex.

Comic by Scott Nickel

Jeremy: What do you call a cat that gives up?
Drew: Tell me.
Jeremy: A “quitty.”

Submitted by Jeremy H., Greensboro, N.C.

Taylor: Why was the cat afraid of the tree?
Jake: Tell me.
Taylor: Because of its bark!

Submitted by Taylor P., McCalla, Ala.

Comic by Scott Masear

Dwight: What does a mouse weigh on a cat’s scale?
Dakota: I don’t know. What?
Dwight: About three pounces!

Submitted by Dwight G., York, Pa.

Daffy: What’s worse than raining cats and dogs?
Taffi: What?
Daffy: Hailing taxis!

Submitted by Erik E., East Lansing, Mich.

Comic by Thomas Toons

Max: What do you call a kitten drinking lemonade?
Matt: I haven’t a clue.
Max: A “sourpuss.”

Cat joke submitted by Max J., Norcross, Ga.

Jake: What happened to the cat that ate the ball of yarn?
Flake: What?
Jake: It had mittens!

Submitted by Jacob V., Scappoose, Ore.

Comic by Harley Schwadron

A young boy felt bad after he accidentally let the neighbor’s cat get loose. After two weeks, the missing cat seemed to be gone for good.

“I’m very sorry,” the boy told the neighbor.

“I’d like to replace it for you.”

“O.K.,” the neighbor said. “How good are you at catching mice?”

Submitted by Tyler R., Medina, Ohio

Evan: What did the cat say when the mouse got away?
Stefan: What?
Evan: “You’ve got to be kitten me!”

Submitted by Evan L., Perrysburg, Ohio.

Comic by Bob Vojtko

Austin: What is a dog’s favorite car to chase?
Elyse: I don’t know. What?
Austin: A CATillac!

Submitted by Austin F., Marysville, Wash.

Zach: What’s smarter than a talking cat?
Jack: What?
Zach: A spelling bee.

Submitted by Zachary S., Lexington, Ky.

Comic by Harley Schwadron

A book never written: “A Guide to Better Cat Care” by Claude Badly.

Submitted by Ryan W., York Springs, Pa.

Devan: Why did the spotted cat get disqualified from the race?
Evan: Why?
Devan: It was a cheetah.

Submitted by Devan T., Shawnee, Kan.

Comic by Scott Nickel

Michael: What do you call a swimming feline?
Pat: I don’t know.
Michael: A “catfish.”

Cat joke submitted by Michael L., Stockton, Calif.

A mother mouse and a baby mouse are walking along when suddenly a cat attacks them. The mother mouse shouts “BARK!” and the cat runs away. “See?” the mother mouse says to her baby. “Now do you see why it’s important to learn a foreign language?”

Submitted by William E., Morganton, N.C.

Comic by ThomasToons