Season 4 has a handful of "classic" Parks and Rec episodes. These are the episodes that are tightly written and have memorable lines or scenes that fans of the show mention constantly. "Pawnee Rangers" is a classic episode, not only because it has a great main plotline, but also because it introduces the phrase "Treat Yo Self." If the writers knew that would catch on so quickly and become so popular, they would have probably just named the entire episode after it.
The main story centers around Ron and Leslie leading their two completely different troops (The Pawnee Rangers and Pawnee Goddesses) together
on a camping trip. Ron's leadership style is much more stern and tough while Leslie's is more playful and supportive. This initiates conflict and jealously between the two troops and eventually leads to a debate and merger.
I love when the show collides both Ron and Leslie's personalities. Both characters who are completely different people, somehow find a way to get a long, but it's never easy. It's one of the show's messages, that despite being in conflict or completely different from others, you can still find ways to see the good in one another and get a long. The children in the troops are perfectly cast and whenever Ron and Leslie are forced to butt heads, it's always a joy to watch.
Now, what puts "Pawnee Rangers" above most other episodes in the season, and even the entire series, is its fantastic side-plot. Not since Season 2's "Practice Date" have I seen such a great side-plot from this series. Tom and Donna (who has rarely been funnier) have their annual day where they go out and buy themselves things. (That doesn't sound as catchy as treat yo self). They decide to bring Ben a long, who they see sitting alone on a bench eating soup. This plotline not only gives us the great pairing of Tom and Donna, but we also see Ben trying to fit in, but is just way to uptight to enjoy himself the way Tom and Donna do. There are many great scenes, but the best has to be towards the end which I won't spoil but involves a character crying in a very amusing way.
Overall, "Pawnee Rangers" is the show at its best and certainly one of the best of Season 4. We get a great main storyline where the show's two best characters (Ron and Leslie) butt heads. Also there is an arguably even better side-plot that introduces one of the show's best catchphrases. It's full of many great moments and is hilarious from beginning to end. Go ahead and treat yo self and watch this episode!...(Sorry)
