The Scout-O-Matic Bridging Machine

One very creative parent made a plywood box, painted it gray, added lights, a control panel, and a "locking" door. The control panel had buttons for Wolf, Bear, and Webelos. The idea is that the Scout would choose his next rank on the control panel, then step inside the "machine" and "be transformed". The back was open, allowing the Cubmaster to help the Scout change kerchiefs and hats.

The Cubmaster had a small skit planned to start the show. She had a Tiger Scout, a Webelos Scout, and a baby doll. The Tiger selected Webelos, stepped into the machine and out stepped big brother. Then the Webelos Scout chose the wrong button, Tiger, and stepped into the machine. The Cubmaster was then to open the door and find the baby doll dressed in the Webelos shirt.

The Scout-O-Matic in operation for the opening skit. Parents and Scouts watch with great anticipation, oblivious to the rest of the room.

However, while no one was looking, the 14 month old sibling of another Scout had found the baby doll and walked off with it, quite literally stealing the show.

When the Cubmaster went to complete the skit and couldn't find the doll for the example of what happens when the Scout selects the wrong button, she had to stop the skit. Then she spied the toddler playing with the doll in the middle of the gymnasium floor. Everyone laughed and the Scouts eagerly lined up for their turn in the "machine".

The toddler who "stole" the baby doll and the show for the evening.

Everyone had a wonderful time, despite the small mishap.