Den Leader Appreciation: Dana Rowen

We want to send a massive shout-out to an truly outstanding leader, Den Leader Dana Rowen of Pack 49 Norwood!

Dana Rowen of Pack 49 Norwood

As Mayflower Council continues our Den Leader Appreciation Month for May 2025, we are absolutely delighted to recognize Dana as our fourth Den Leader of the Week.

Dana has done something incredible this year: he led the Wolves Den to the greatest growth of any of our Dens! They started with just 3 Scouts and finished the year with a fantastic 11! That remarkable growth speaks volumes about how engaged and excited the kids are, and how wonderfully Dana has made it a fun and welcoming group for both Scouts and their families.

What makes Dana so special is his wonderfully calm and steady presence. We know it can be a whirlwind with a large group of 2nd graders, but he truly takes it all in stride, making every meeting feel smooth and enjoyable.

Just a few weeks ago, the Wolves took full advantage of the beautiful weather by making kites out of paper bags and enjoying some popsicles. That’s pure Cub Scouting genius! Dana perfectly embodied “A Scout is Thrifty” by using our amazing environment to create a fun and inexpensive activity the kids loved.

Dana, thank you from the bottom of our hearts for your incredible dedication and the immensely positive spirit you bring to every Scout in Pack 49! You genuinely embody the very best of Scouting, and we are so incredibly fortunate to have you as a leader.

Remember, nominate your best den leaders here. Congratulations and thank you!




Den Leader Appreciation: Mike Cluett

Let’s hear it for Den Leader Mike Cluett of Pack 41 in Abington – truly one of our very best!

Mike Cluett of Pack 41 Abington

As we continue to celebrate Den Leader Appreciation Month in Mayflower Council, we’re absolutely thrilled to recognize Mike as our third Den Leader of the Week for May 2025!

Mike’s commitment is nothing short of inspiring. He stepped up to lead his son’s Den when no one else was available, diving in headfirst. The results speak for themselves: his Den isn’t just the largest in the Pack, it’s also bursting with the happiest, most smiling Scouts! Laughter and good times are a constant whenever Mike’s Den is together.

His dedication is 100% unwavering. Mike ensures his Scouts are not only having a blast but are genuinely engaged and learning something new every time they meet. Beyond his Den, he’s a true Pack champion, consistently helping with recruitment and fundraising efforts to make sure Scouting thrives for even more kids.

Mike’s Den meetings are always full of energy, with every Scout eager to participate. It’s clear that his desire to have as much fun as the kids themselves makes all the difference.

Mike, thank you from the bottom of our hearts for your incredible dedication and the immensely positive spirit you bring to every Scout in Pack 41! You embody the very best of Scouting, and we are so incredibly fortunate to have you.

Remember, nominate your best den leaders here. Congratulations and thank you!




Den Leader Appreciation: Gregory Lomanno

Celebrating a Rockstar Leader: Gregory Lomanno of Pack 113 Earns Den Leader of the Week Honors

Gregory Lomanno of Pack 113 Medfield

Let’s give a huge shout-out to the awesome Den Leader Gregory Lomanno of Pack 113 in Medfield! As Mayflower Council continues our Den Leader Appreciation Month, we’re absolutely delighted to shine a spotlight on his fantastic work as our second Den Leader of the Week for May 2025!

Seriously, Greg is a rockstar! He’s got the communication down pat, keeping all the families in the loop like a pro. His meeting plans? Always top-notch! And whenever the pack needs an extra hand, Greg is the first to jump in. 

What makes Grego truly shine? He’s like a super-organizer, somehow creating den meetings that are the perfect mix of “we’re having SO much fun!” and “hey, we actually learned something cool today!”

Want to know how to get the whole family smiling in Scouting? Just ask Greg! He’s a genius at planning activities where parents and kids get to join in the fun together. It’s a win-win for everyone!

Greg, thank you from the bottom of our hearts for your incredible dedication and the super positive vibes you bring to the Scouts of Pack 113! You truly make the spirit of Scouting shine bright. We’re so lucky to have you!

Remember, nominate your best den leaders here. Congratulations, Gregory, and thank you!




Den Leader Appreciation Month

We know our den leaders truly light the way for our youth, creating the safe adventures, learning, and fun that makes Cub Scouts the perfect activity for boys and girls in kindergarten through fifth grade. Mayflower Council has marked the month of May as Den Leader Appreciation Month.

Mayflower Council highlights one of these fantastic den leaders every Wednesday in May

  • Den Leader Appreciation: Dana Rowen

    We want to send a massive shout-out to an truly outstanding leader, Den Leader Dana Rowen of Pack 49 Norwood! Dana Rowen of Pack 49 Norwood As Mayflower Council continues our Den [...]

  • Den Leader Appreciation: Mike Cluett

    Let's hear it for Den Leader Mike Cluett of Pack 41 in Abington – truly one of our very best! Mike Cluett of Pack 41 Abington As we continue to celebrate Den [...]

  • Den Leader Appreciation: Gregory Lomanno

    Celebrating a Rockstar Leader: Gregory Lomanno of Pack 113 Earns Den Leader of the Week Honors Gregory Lomanno of Pack 113 Medfield Let's give a huge shout-out to the awesome Den Leader [...]

  • Den Leader Appreciation: Deirdra Borges

    More Than a Leader: Deirdra Borges Fuels Growth and Fun in West Bridgewater's Pack 23 Deirdra Borges of Pack 23 in West Bridgewater It's Den Leader Appreciation Month in the Mayflower Council, [...]

Do you know a den leader who deserves some recognition?
Fill out our form; maybe you’ll see a familiar face in our next announcement…

Sincere thanks to all of our den leaders for all you do!




Den Leader Appreciation: Deirdra Borges

More Than a Leader: Deirdra Borges Fuels Growth and Fun in West Bridgewater’s Pack 23

Deirdra Borges of Pack 23 in West Bridgewater

It’s Den Leader Appreciation Month in the Mayflower Council, and we’re thrilled to spotlight the incredible contributions of our dedicated leaders! Today, we proudly recognize Deirdra Borges of Pack 23 in West Bridgewater as our first Den Leader of the Week for May 2025.

Deirdra’s journey with Pack 23 began in 2021 when her son, John, joined as a Tiger. Recognizing an immediate need for leadership within his den, Deirdra stepped up without hesitation. More than just a leader, she has consistently surpassed expectations, fostering an environment that is both engaging and focused. Under her guidance, her den has flourished and is now enthusiastically working towards their Arrow of Light, undoubtedly preparing them for a successful transition to Troop 25 next March 2026.

What sets Deirdra apart? Her exceptional preparedness! Each of her meetings is thoughtfully planned and infused with a spirit of fun, so much so that the Scouts joyfully absorb valuable life lessons without even realizing it. Her initiative extends beyond den meetings; she has also established the Pack 23 Hiking Club, further enriching the scouting experience for our young members.

Thank you, Deirdra, for your outstanding dedication and the positive impact you have on the Scouts of Pack 23! Your commitment truly embodies the spirit of Scouting.

Remember, nominate your best den leaders here. Congratulations, Deirdra, and thank you!




Den Leader Appreciation: Matthew Kelly

Today, we conclude Mayflower Council’s Den Leader Appreciation Month for 2024.

Beyond focusing on the Scout Law and Oath, Lord Baden Powell said good leaders often see things from the Scout’s point of view, and that adage still holds

However, one local Cub Scout Den Leader from Pack 49 Norwood also takes BP’s old Scout motto to heart.

Matthew Kelly of Pack 49 Norwood

Cub Scout Pack 49 Norwood

Cub Scout Pack 49 Norwood

“He’s flexible; takes on anything the Pack needs,” explained Norwood Committee Chair Rebecca Flynn of her nominee, Den Leader Matthew Kelly – our final Den Leader of the Week for 2024.

However, Flynn focused on Kelly’s ability to “be prepared” for her nomination.

“Although he is new to Scouting, he trains himself on what he will teach the children,” said Rebecca. “He’s a teacher by trade, so he connects with them well and illustrates the curriculum with real-life examples.”

Matthew with Cub Scouts.

Matthew with Cub Scouts.

Of course, a Scout is also cheerful, so Matthew keeps things light for his Cub Scouts.

“He’s funny!” added the committee chair. “He enjoys being with the kids and likes some of the same things they enjoy (like Star Wars and video games).

“He hasn’t forgotten what being a kid is like.”

Den Leader Appreciation Month

This month, the Mayflower Council celebrated extraordinary leaders and recognized our superlative Den Leaders via social media weekly in May. Check out our five superlative Den Leaders, each collected here.

 

Den Leaders Light the Way

Den Leaders Light the Way




Den Leader Appreciation: Rob DeMarino

As we continue Den Leader Appreciation Month, the nominations keep rolling in. This week’s top nominee comes from Maynard, Massachusetts, where Cubmaster Jarrod Kennedy singled out Rob DeMarino for special recognition as Den Leader of the Week.

Rob DeMarino of Pack 130 Maynard

Maynard Cub Scouts

Maynard Cub Scouts

“Rob has served as a den leader in Pack 130 for several years and most recently graduated eight eager Scouts from the Arrow of Lights into the local BSA Troop,”  wrote Kennedy. “Rob provided an excellent environment, instilled the meaning of the Scout Law and Oath, and created many great memories for his cubs.

“After his Scouts crossed over, Rob has remained active in the pack and has volunteered to take on additional responsibilities. People like Rob are why packs and troops are successful.”

#Truth.

But those volunteers turn a successful unit into a superlative organization.

Case in point: Rob DeMarino.

Rob with Scouts for eclipse prep.

Rob with Scouts for eclipse prep.

“Rob is always willing to help where needed and is happy to do so,” added Kennedy. “I’ve known Rob for almost two years and have not seen him without a smile.

“However, as an Air Force veteran, Rob is also great at grabbing the attention of the cubs when needed!”

That said, it’s not a straightforward veteran voice that keeps the kids’ attention.

“Rob consistently takes the aims of scouting and comes up with creative and fun ways to teach the Cubs,” said Jarrod. “Most recently, Rob put together activities for a solar eclipse pack meeting [as seen above], including glasses for the scouts, a model of the sun and moon, and crafts to create masks for their glasses.”

Congratulations, and thank you to Rob DeMarino of Maynard for all his efforts on behalf of his den, Pack 130, and the Mayflower Council.

Den Leader Appreciation Month

“Den Leaders Light the Way!” Scouters!  

This month, we’re celebrating extraordinary leaders. Using your suggestions, the Mayflower Council will recognize our superlative Den Leaders via social media weekly in May. Meanwhile, each officially registered Den Leader in the Council will receive a limited edition commemorative patch! Nominate your best den leaders here.




Den Leader Appreciation: Todd Johnson

As you know, May is Den Leader Appreciation Month in the Mayflower Council.

Today, we recognize Todd Johnson of Pack 748 Medway as our third Den Leader of the Week for May 2024. 

Todd Johnson of Pack 748 Medway

Pack 748

Pack 748 Medway

“Todd has the liveliest den in the pack,” wrote Cubmaster Chris McKnerney. “His Scouts like to run around and have a good time, and Todd knows how to plan for that. 

“He keeps his meetings short and sweet, and the den meets outside year-round with many outings. 

“Todd is incredibly patient and well prepared and contributes to pack planning and activities,” added McKnerney.

While “patience” isn’t part of the Scout Law (yet), Todd’s ability to look beyond the excitement and energy remains a crucial facet of his leadership.

Todd Johnson

Todd Johnson, Den Leader, Pack 748

“Todd’s planning and patience make him an excellent den leader,” added the pack’s leader. “His den meets more often than the others in the pack because he knows he has to hold the Scouts’ attention. 

Meanwhile, and beyond the backyard, Johnson gets his den out and about.

“Todd is great at relating to his lively den, ” said Cubmaster McKnerney. “He takes them on many interesting outings, including trips to the town’s waste management facility, a supermarket, hikes, and even a fish hatchery.”

Congratulations and thank you to Todd Johnson of Medway for all his efforts on behalf of his den, Pack 748, and the Mayflower Council.

Den Leader Appreciation Month

“Den Leaders Light the Way!” Scouters!  

This month, we’re celebrating extraordinary leaders. Using your suggestions, the Mayflower Council will recognize our superlative Den Leaders via social media weekly in May. Meanwhile, each officially registered Den Leader in the Council will receive a limited edition commemorative patch! Nominate your best den leaders here.

And remember to RSVP to the Den Leader Appreciation Extravaganza near you!




Den Leader Appreciation: Matt Schickling

May is Den Leader Appreciation Month in the #MayflowerCouncil. Today, we recognize Matt Schickling of Pack 55 Northborough as our second Den Leader of the Week for May 2024.

Matt Schickling

Matt Schickling

“Matt’s leadership and investment in youth development is obvious in how he speaks to the scouts and guides them through the program. Word of his leadership has spread through the town, and his den is now almost twenty Cub Scouts strong!” explained Pack 55 Cubmaster Eric Young. “Matt also is a voice for inclusion in Cub Scouting and champions the power of Scouting to transform the lives of ALL youth.”

And with all that said, we hear Matt will be the next Cubmaster of the pack – congratulations!

“Den Leaders Light the Way!” Scouters! It’s time to celebrate some of your extraordinary leaders. Using your suggestions, the Mayflower Council will recognize our superlative Den Leaders via social media weekly in May. Meanwhile, each officially registered Den Leader in the Council will receive a limited edition commemorative patch! Nominate your best den leaders here.

Don’t forget to RSVP to the Den Leader AppreciationCheck Extravaganza near you!




The Doctor Is In (The Spotlight)!

Dr. Sara Grady is the complete package, from land-loving Cub Scouts to shore-loving horseshoe crabs, this amazing volunteer has every living creature’s best interest in mind.

Tiger Den Leader for Pack 47 Plymouth, Sara is a watershed ecologist and — when she is not with her unit — can most often be found in the water, in the woods, on a trail; any place in nature, really. 

Of course, those who take a “hike” with Dr. Sara know she will traverse 100 yards in 10 minutes and share more knowledge about plants and animals than they ever thought possible. All of which makes her a perfect person to lead a Den.

Moreover, as a SuperNOVA mentor, Dr. Grady has been an invaluable Mayflower Council resource the past few years, helping to run stations at Introduction to Outdoor Leader Skills (meanwhile earning BALOO, mind you), volunteering at the Klondike Derby, Webelos Woods, and the Wilderness Survival Camporee. 

Currently, Sara works on her Wood Badge ticket by improving the “nature trail” at Camp Squanto. 

However, everyone also knows Sara’s hidden talent: a beautiful singing voice often used acapella.

One wonders if both Tigers and and tiger sharks alike would respond equally well to her dulcet tones!

Thank you, Sara, for all your hard work on behalf of your council, district, and unit. Like so many den leaders, you truly shine bright for all of our Scouts.