I remember a couple of years ago when this recognition was introduced. There was a lot of buzz about an award for video gaming.  Hopefully your Cub Scout will learn to use video games responsibly by earning the Video Games pin from the Cub Scout Academics and Sports program.

Video Games Pin Requirements

Earn the Video Games belt loop, and complete five of the following requirements:

1. With your parents, create a plan to buy a video game that is right for your age group.
2. Compare two game systems (for example, Microsoft Xbox, Sony PlayStation, Nintendo Wii, and so on). Explain some of the differences between the two. List good reasons to purchase or use a game system.
3. Play a video game with family members in a family tournament.
4. Teach an adult or a friend how to play a video game.
5. List at least five tips that would help someone who was learning how to play your favorite video game.
6. Play an appropriate video game with a friend for one hour.
7. Play a video game that will help you practice your math, spelling, or another skill that helps you in your schoolwork.
8. Choose a game you might like to purchase. Compare the price for this game at three different stores. Decide which store has the best deal. In your decision, be sure to consider things like the store return policy and manufacturer’s warranty.
9. With an adult’s supervision, install a gaming system.

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A local trucking company offers Boy Scouts a skill center for the Truck Transportation merit badge every year. The last time our Scouts went, they said they learned a lot, but they were a little disappointed that they didn’t get to learn to drive a truck.

Trucking is a large and important industry. No matter where you live, a day is unlikely to go by when you will not see a truck. We use these vehicles to deliver almost every material item we buy. Without trucks, our economy would not work efficiently.

Truck Transportation Merit Badge Requirements

1. List the major truck lines serving your town.
2. Do the following:
1. Describe the role of truck transportation within commerce (the movement of goods, funds, and information).
2. Describe how trucks fit into a company’s supply chain. This could be a manufacturer, importer, wholesaler, or retailer.
3. On paper, map out how goods that are manufactured overseas are transported to a retailer in this country.
3. Describe the difference between the gasoline engine and the diesel engine that power trucks. List the advantages of each.
4. Visit a truck terminal and complete items 4a through 4e. After your visit, share what you have learned with your counselor.
1. Find out what kind of maintenance program the company follows to help keep its fleet, drivers, and the roadway safe.
2. Find out how dispatchers maintain communication with drivers on the road.
3. Talk with a professional truck driver about safety. Learn about the truck driver’s rules of the road for safe driving. List five safe-driving rules every professional truck driver must follow.
4. Review the driver’s log and find out what kind of information the log contains.
5. Learn about important federal regulations that help ensure public safety.
5. Do the following:
1. Outline the general organization of a trucking company. Describe what each department does.
2. List five positions with trucking companies and describe each one.
6. Name five government agencies that work closely with the trucking industry. Describe their role.
7. List five different kinds of trucks. Tell the service each provides.
8. Assume that you are going to ship by truck 500 pounds of goods (freight class 65) from your town to another town 500 miles away. Your shipment must arrive within three days. Explain in writing:
1. How to prepare the shipment
2. How to compare at least three carriers for time in transit and rates
3. How to choose which carrier to use
4. How to insure the shipment for damages
9. Define the following terms: bill of lading, ETA, logbook, intermodal, containers, tariff, shippers, carrier, consignee, drayage, cartage.
10. Learn about opportunities in the field of truck transportation. Choose one career in which you are interested and discuss with your counselor the major responsibilities of that position and the qualifications, education, and training such a position requires.

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Marbles is a classic outdoor game which kids can still enjoy today. So have your Scouts grab a bag of marbles, draw a circle on the ground and earn the Marbles belt loop from the Cub Scout Academics and Sports program.

Webelos who earn the Marbles Belt Loop while a Webelos also complete part of requirement 3 for the Sportsman activity badge.

Marbles Belt Loop Requirements

Complete these three requirements:

1. Explain the rules of Ringer or another marble game to your leader or adult partner
2. Spend at least 30 minutes practicing skills to play the game of Ringer or another marble game.
3. Participate in a game of marbles

Copyright Scouter Mom - A resource for adults and youth involved in Scouting

The Cub Scout core value for the month of January is Positive Attitude. BSA has a Cub Scout pack meeting plan called Lights, Camera, Action related to this core value. The Lights, Camera, Action  meeting plan features ideas for the core value of positive attitude – games, group activities, songs, and more while Cub Scouts take center stage.

For more ideas for use with this program theme, see my Lights, Camera, Action! page.

The core value of Positive Attitude should still be the focus for the month.  Here is how the BSA plan suggests tying together this theme with January’s core value of  Positive Attitude:

Why Lights! Camera! Action! for the Core Value Positive Attitude. Let the spotlight shine on our Cub Scouts. Our Scouts spend many hours in front of the television set. Let’s put that to good use this month, and use it to promote positive values and a positive attitude. Create a very special red carpet event at this pack meeting, and every Cub Scout will feel like a star.

Cub Scout Pack Meeting Plan for January: Lights, Camera, Action (Positive Attitude)

This Cub Scout pack meeting plan includes the following – all within a respect theme. See the meeting plan for details.

• Gathering activity – Red Carpet Interviews
• Opening ceremony – “Be the Best at Whatever You Are” Opening Ceremony
• Jungle Book Icebreaker
• Astronaut Cheer, Tony the Tiger Cheer
• Circle Applause, Barbeque Applause
• Fortunately, Unfortunately Skit (Audience Participation)
• Song – Cub Scouts Shine (To the tune of Three Blind Mice)
• Activity – Den Skits
• Awards Show Recognition Ceremony
• “Shining Star” Cubmaster Minute

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If your Boy Scouts aren’t interested in the Coin Collecting merit badge or Stamp Collecting merit badge, maybe they will like the more general Collections merit badge.

Collecting can be an educational and financially rewarding pastime: a collector must educate himself about a specific subject, be able to tell which items are worth preserving, how to catalog and organize his collection, and how to evaluate the value of items.

Collections Merit Badge Requirements

Stamp and coin collecting are excluded from eligibility for this merit badge. There are separate merit badges for these.

1. Prepare a short written report or outline for your counselor, giving a detailed description of your collection, including a short history. Be sure to include why you chose that particular type of collecting and what you enjoy and have learned from your collection.
2. Explain the growth and development of your collection.
3. Demonstrate your knowledge of preserving and displaying your collection.
1. Explain the precautions you need to take to preserve your collection, including
1. Handling
2. Cleaning
3. Storage
2. Explain how best to display your collection, keeping in mind preserving as discussed above.
3. Explain to your counselor the events available for a hobbyist of this collection, including shows, seminars, conventions, contests, and museum programs or exhibits.
4. Demonstrate your knowledge of collecting and investing. Discuss with your counselor:
1. How investing and speculation would apply to your collection
2. What you would look for in purchasing other collections similar to yours
3. What you would expect in return value if you decided to sell all or part of the collection
5. Do the following:
1. Discuss with your counselor at least 10 terms commonly used in your collection and be prepared to discuss the definition of each.
2. Show your counselor any two groups from your collection. Explain how you organized your collection and why you chose that method. (Note: If your collection is too large to transport and your counselor is unable to view your collection directly, photographs should be available to share.)
3. Explain how your collection is valued by other collectors, and display to your counselor any price guides that may be available.
4. Explain how your collection is graded for value, physical defects, size, and age. Show the various classifications or ratings used in your collection.
5. List the national, state, or local association responsive to your collection.
6. Show the location of and explain to your counselor the identification number (if applicable), series, brand name (if any), and any other special identification marks.
6. Discuss with your counselor the plans you have to continue with the collection in the future.
7. Discuss with your counselor why and how collecting has changed and how this applies to your collection.
8. Find out about career opportunities in collecting. Pick one and find out the education, training, and experience required for this profession. Discuss this with your counselor, and explain why this profession might interest you.

Copyright Scouter Mom - A resource for adults and youth involved in Scouting

Some Halloween themed ideas might help you out at an upcoming Halloween party. Or they might just be a way to add some fun to an upcoming Scout meeting. Maybe you are going camping and you need some ideas to make your campsite “spooky”. Whatever the case, here are some of my favorite ideas for Scouts from other websites. You can also  find my Halloween ideas on my Halloween page.

A lot of these are best for Cub Scouts, but some would be fun for Boy Scouts and Venturers also.

Halloween Crafts

Paper Bag Fall Tree: Make a really great looking tree with falling leaves from a paper lunch back and some colored tissue paper. This would fit especially well with Webelos Artist activity badge. I would consider this a construction for that badge’s requirement 9: “Make an art construction, using your choice of materials.”.

Q-Tip Skeleton: This would make a wonderful gathering activity for this time of year for Cub Scouts. For Tigers and Wolves it might be best to do some of the cutting beforehand.  I’d also recommend you have one made up as an example.

Egg Carton Bats and Leaf Ghosts: I like this craft because the bats are made of egg cartons, which emphasises the Reuse part of “Reduce, Reuse, Recycle”. And the ghosts are made from leaves, which makes them a nature craft.

Halloween Snacks

Halloween Worms: I love these gross looking worms. They are made by making geletin and putting it in straws. Awesome!

Easy Halloween Preztel Rod Ideas: This site has a collection of pretzel rod recipes. These include ghostly pretzel sticks, pretzel stick bones, witches fingers, candy corn pretzel rods, mummy pretzel sticks, and witches’ broomsticks.

Jack O Lantern Oranges:  So easy and a healthy alternative if the kids have already had too much candy! Just take some oranges, tangerines,  or clementines and draw jack-o-lantern faces on them with a marker.

Halloween Games

15 Indoor Halloween Games: Just what it sounds like – 15 games which can be played indoors. These are best for younger kids and would be perfect for your classroom party or den meeting.

Pop Goes the Pumpkin: Popping balloons placed on the wall in a pumpkin formation. Scouts seem to enjoy any game which involves popping balloons.

Pumpkin Bowling (look in the middle of the page): The “ball” is a pumpkin with the stem cut off and some holes bored in it for the fingers. The “pins” are rolls of toilet paper decorated like ghosts. The only thing Cub Scouts probably like more in a game than balloon popping is throwing things. You might want to do this one outside so you don’t have to worry about the mess if the pumpkin breaks.

More Halloween Party Ideas

You can see pictures of some of these and more ideas on my Halloween Ideas Pinterest Board. 

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  Halloween Game: don'
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  Orange Hot Chocolate
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  My kids love creamsi
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  Crystal Ball Game
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  Pumpkin Tossing Game
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  Halloween Tossing Ga
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  Pumpkin Fun Garland
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  Halloween Games, Sna
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  Pumpkin Bowlilng wit
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  Looking to kick off
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  These scary-good Hal
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  Cute mummy snack
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  Another healthy alte
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  Cute idea to throw s
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  Toilet paper jack-o-
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  Jar-o'-lanterns
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  Q-Tip Skeleton Craft
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  Halloween Bingo Card
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  Candy Corn Mix Recip
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  We always carve at l
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  Bobbing for Worms: L
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  Fake blood is fun fo
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  Venturing Crew Hallo
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  Cub Scouts enjoy mak
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  Milk Jug Ghost Hallo

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Boy Scouts who are fascinated by trains can earn the Railroading merit badge. Our local Museum of  Transportation offers several skill centers for this badge.

By earning this badge, Scouts can learn about the history of railroading, its place in modern society, careers in railroading, and hobbies related to railroading.

Railroading Merit Badge Requirements

1. Do THREE of the following:
1. Name three types of modern freight trains. Explain why unit trains are more efficient than mixed freight trains.
2. Name one class I or regional railroad. Explain what major cities it serves, the locations of major terminals, service facilities and crew change points, and the major commodities it carries.
3.  Using models or pictures, identify 10 types of railroad freight or passenger cars. Explain the purpose of each type of car.
4. Explain how a modern diesel or electric locomotive develops power. Explain the terms dynamic braking and radial steering trucks.
2. Do the following:
1. Explain the purpose and formation of Amtrak. Explain, by the use of a timetable, a plan for making a trip by rail between two cities at least 500 miles apart. List the times of departure and arrival at your destination, the train number and name, and the type of service you want.
2. List and explain the various forms of public/mass transit using rail as the fixed-guide path.
3. Do ONE of the following:
1. Name four departments of a railroad company. Describe what each department does.
2. Tell about the opportunities in railroading that interest you most and why.
3. Name four rail support industries. Describe the function of each one.
4. With your parent’s and counselor’s approval, interview someone employed in the rail industry. Learn what that person does and how this person became interested in railroading. Find out what type of schooling and training are required for this position.
4. Explain the purpose of Operation Lifesaver and its mission.
5. Do THREE of the following:
1. List five safety precautions that help make trains safer for workers and passengers.
2. Explain to your merit badge counselor why railroad rights-of-way are important for safety.
3. List 10 safety tips to remember when you are near a railroad track (either on the ground or on a station platform) or aboard a train.
4. Tell your counselor about the guidelines for conduct that should be followed when you are near or on railroad property. Explain the dangers of trespassing on railroad property.
5. Tell what an automobile driver can do to safely operate a car at grade crossings, and list three things an automobile driver should never do at a grade crossing.
6. Tell how to report a malfunction of grade crossing warning devices.
7. List safety precautions a pedestrian should follow at a public crossing.
6. Explain the appearance and meaning of the following warning signs and devices: advance warning sign, pavement markings, crossbucks, flashing red lights, crossing gates.
7. Do EACH of the following:
1. Explain how railroad signals operate and show two basic signal types using color or configuration.
2. Explain the meaning of three whistle signals.
3. Describe a way to signal a train for an emergency stop.
4. Explain the use and function of the EOTD (end-of-train device) or FRED (flashing rear end device) used on the last car of most trains.
8. Select ONE of the following special-interest areas and complete the requirements.
1. Model Railroading – With your parent’s and counselor’s approval, do TWO of the following:
1. Draw a layout of your own model railroad or one that could be built in your home. Design a point-to-point track or loop with different routings. Include one of the following: turnaround or terminal or yard or siding.
2. Build one model railroad car kit or one locomotive kit.
3. Name the scale of four popular model railroad gauges. Identify the scale of four model cars or locomotives.
4. Locate the Web site of four model railroad-related manufacturers or magazine publishers. Print information on their products and services and discuss the information with your counselor.
5. Build one railroad structure (from scratch or using a kit), paint and weather the structure, mount it on your layout or diorama, and make the surrounding area on the diorama scenic.
6. Alone or with others, build a model railroad or modular layout including ballast and scenery. Make electrical connections and operate a train. Describe what you enjoyed most.
7. Participate in a switching contest on a timesaver layout and record your time.
2. Railfanning – With your parent’s and counselor’s approval, do TWO of the following:
1. Visit a railroad museum, historical display, or a prototype railroad-sponsored public event. With permission, photograph, videotape, or sketch items of interest. Explain what you saw and describe your photos, sketches, or videotape.
2. Purchase tickets and ride a scenic or historic railroad. Under supervision, photograph the equipment and discuss with your counselor the historic significance of the operation.
3. Locate the Web site of four rail historical groups, then find information on the history of the rail preservation operations and purpose of each group. Talk with a member of one of the groups and find out how you might help.
4. Plan a trip by rail between two points. Obtain a schedule and explain when the train should arrive at two intermediate points. Purchase the tickets and make the trip. Explain to your counselor what you saw.

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Whether you live in an urban or rural area, there are probably horseback riding opportunities available. So find a stable and arrange for your Cub Scouts to earn the Horseback Riding belt loop from the Cub Scout Academics and Sports program.

Horseback Riding Belt Loop Requirements

Complete these three requirements:

1. Explain five safety precautions for when you are near a horse.
2. With help from an experienced horse handler, demonstrate how to safely mount and ride a horse and then how to safely dismount the horse.
3. Go on a supervised horseback ride for at least 20 minutes. Wear an approved helmet (such as one approved for horseback riding by the ASTM, or American Society for Testing and Materials).

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Boy Scouts can choose between a canoeing option and a kayaking option when they earn the Whitewater merit badge.

Canoeing or kayaking through whitewater rapids can be a thrilling experience. Safe whitewater fun requires each participant to understand the the equipment and techniques and to have a firm respect for the power of nature’s waterways.

Whitewater Merit Badge Requirements

1. Do the following:
1. Review with your counselor the first aid for injuries or illnesses that could occur while working on the Whitewater merit badge, including hypothermia, heat reactions, dehydration, insect stings, blisters, bruises, cuts, and shoulder dislocation.
2. Identify the conditions that must exist before performing cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) on a person. Explain how such conditions are recognized.
3. Demonstrate proper technique for performing CPR using a training device approved by your counselor.
2. Do the following:
1. Review and compare BSA Safety Afloat and the American Whitewater safety guidelines and demonstrate your understanding of these principles by answering questions from your counselor.
2. Identify and explain the use and importance of safety equipment on moving water. Include in your explanation a discussion about throw ropes, whistles, and how to choose and properly fit PFDs (personal flotation devices) and helmets.
3. Before doing requirements 4 through 13, earn the Canoeing merit badge if you will be using a canoe to earn this merit badge. If you will be using a kayak, earn the Kayaking BSA Award.
4. Do ONE of the following:
1. If you are completing these requirements as a tandem canoeist, demonstrate basic canoe-handling skills by completing the Scout gate test within 160 seconds while paddling tandem with a buddy. Then demonstrate the following strokes: cross forward, cross draw, bow pry, Duffek, high brace, and low brace.
2. If you are completing these requirements as a solo canoeist, demonstrate basic solo canoe-handling skills by completing the Scout gate test within 160 seconds. Then demonstrate the following strokes: cross forward, cross draw, stern pry, Duffek, high brace, and low brace.
3. If you are using a kayak to complete these requirements, demonstrate basic kayakhandling skills by completing the Scout gate test within 160 seconds. Demonstrate the following strokes: Duffek, high brace, low brace, and sculling draw. Then do the following:
1. Move the kayak forward in a reasonably straight line for 10 yards.
2. Move the kayak sideways to the right and to the left.
3. Pivot 360 degrees to the right and left.
4. Stop the kayak.
5. Do the following:
1. Explain the importance of scouting before committing to running a rapid, and discuss good judgment when evaluating a stretch of river or a particular rapid.
2. Explain the terms downstream V, riffle, strainer, eddy, eddy line, pillow, ledge, bend, shallows, falls, low-head dam, current, rock, drop, horizon line, wave, standing wave, hydraulic, and sleeper.
3. Explain how to scout and read a river while ashore and while afloat, and discuss the importance of hazard recognition.
4. Demonstrate your ability to read the river where you are practicing and demonstrating your whitewater skills.
6. Explain the International Scale of River Difficulty and apply the scale to the stretch of river where you are practicing and demonstrating your whitewater skills. Identify the specific characteristics of the river that are factors in your classification according to the International Scale.
7. Explain the importance of communication during every whitewater outing. Explain and then demonstrate using the following river signals: “Run right,” “Run left,” “Run down the center,” “Stop,” “Are you OK?” and “Help!”
8. Do the following:
1. Explain the differences between flatwater and whitewater canoes. Identify the different materials used in modern whitewater canoe construction and the advantages and disadvantages of each.
2. Describe the various types of kayaks and how they differ in design, materials, and purpose.
3. Identify the advantages and special uses for kayaks and decked canoes in moving water.
4. Discuss the construction, safety, and functional features of paddles used in whitewater activities.
9. Discuss the personal and group equipment necessary for a safe whitewater outing and how and why it is used. Explain how to pack and protect these items.
10. Wearing the proper personal flotation device (PFD) and being appropriately dressed for the weather and water conditions, perform the following skills in moving water in a properly equipped whitewater craft of your choice (tandem canoe, solo canoe, or solo kayak). If a tandem canoe is used, the skills must be demonstrated from both the bow and stern positions.
1. Launch and land.
2. Paddle forward in a straight line.
3. Backpaddle.
4. Sideslip, both sides.
5. Ferry upstream and downstream.
6. Eddy turn.
7. Peel out.
11. Explain and demonstrate:
1. Self-rescue and procedures when capsized in moving water, including a wet exit if necessary
2. Safe rescue of others in various whitewater situations using a throw rope
3. Portaging–when and how to do it
4. The whitewater buddy system using at least three persons and three craft
12. Discuss the use of inflatable rafts on moving water. In your discussion, explain the special safety precautions that should be taken when using an inflatable raft and the risks of “tubing” on moving water.
13. Participate in a whitewater trip using either a canoe or kayak on a Class I or Class II river. Help to prepare a written plan, specifying the route, schedule, equipment, safety precautions, and emergency procedures. Determine local rules and obtain permission from landowners and land managers in advance. Explain what steps you have taken to comply with BSA Safety Afloat and the American Whitewater safety guidelines. Execute the plan with others.

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I Like Bananas, Coconuts, and Grapes is a very simple song, which makes it a perfect interlude for a meeting with Cub Scouts. It is sometimes called The Tarzan Song. Try using it with the Jungle of Fun Cub Scout theme.

Ham it up when you do this with your Cub Scouts. The younger Cub Scouts will find it funny and the Webelos will enjoy rolling their eyes at you.

I can’t say there is much of a melody to this song. Maybe our group just isn’t very melodious! Just belt it out. You might be able to find a video of it on YouTube if you really want it to sound like something.

I Like Bananas, Coconuts, and Grapes Song for Cub Scouts

I like bananas, coconuts and grapes;
I like bananas, coconuts and grapes;
I like bananas, coconuts and grapes;
That’s why they call me…

TARZAN OF THE APES!!! (Sing the last line extra loud and beat your chest Tarzan style)

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Many of our Boy Scouts earned their Rifle Shooting merit badges at our August campout. Shooting is always a popular activity for our Scouts.

Unless a rifle is handled incorrectly or recklessly, it is not dangerous. A rifle, like any other precision instrument, is manufactured to perform a specific task and can do so at no risk to the user or others. By earning this badge, Scouts can develop their shooting skills while learning safe practices

Rifle Shooting Merit Badge Requirements

1. Do the following:
   1. Explain why BB and pellet air guns must always be treated with the same respect as firearms.
   2. Describe how you would react if a friend visiting your home asked to see your or your family’s firearm(s).
   3. Explain the need for, and use and types of, eye and hearing protection.
   4. Give the main points of the laws for owning and using guns in your community and state.
   5. Explain how hunting is related to the wise use of renewable wildlife resources.
   6. Obtain a copy of the hunting laws for your state. Explain the main points of hunting laws in your state and give any special laws on the use of guns and ammunition.
   7. Identify and explain how you can join or be a part of shooting sports activities.
   8. Explain to your counselor the proper hygienic guidelines used in shooting.
   9. Give your counselor a list of sources that you could contact for information on firearms and their uses.
2. 2. Do ONE of the following options:
   1. Rifle Shooting (Modern Cartridge Type) Option
      1. Identify the three main parts of a rifle, and tell how they function.
      2. Identify and demonstrate the three fundamental rules for safe gun handling.
      3. Identify the two types of cartridges, their parts, and how they function.
      4. Explain to your counselor what a misfire, hangfire, and squib fire are, and explain the procedures to follow in response to each.
      5. Identify and demonstrate the five fundamentals of shooting a rifle safely.
      6. Identify and explain each rule for safe shooting.
      7. Demonstrate the knowledge, skills, and attitude necessary to safely shoot a rifle from the benchrest position or supported prone position while using the five fundamentals of rifle shooting.
      8. Identify the basic safety rules for cleaning a rifle, and identify the materials needed.
      9. Demonstrate how to clean a rifle properly and safely.
      10. Discuss what points you would consider in selecting a rifle.
      11. Using a .22 caliber rimfire rifle and shooting from a bench rest or supported prone position at 50 feet, fire five groups (three shots per group) that can be covered by a quarter. Using these targets, explain how to adjust sights to zero a rifle.
      12. Adjust sights to center the group on the target* and fire five groups (five shots per group). According to the target used, each shot in the group must meet the following minimum score: (1) A-32 targets—9; (2) A-17 or TQ-1 targets—7; (3) A-36 targets—5.
   2. Air Rifle Shooting (BB or Pellet) Option
      1. Identify the three main parts of an air rifle, and tell how they function.
      2. Identify and demonstrate the three fundamental rules for safe gun handling.
      3. Identify the two most common types of air rifle ammunition.
      4. Identify and demonstrate the five fundamentals of shooting a rifle safely.
      5. Identify and explain each rule for shooting an air rifle safely.
      6. Demonstrate the knowledge, skills, and attitude necessary to safely shoot a target from the benchrest position or supported prone position while using the five fundamentals of rifle shooting.
      7. Identify the basic safety rules for cleaning an air rifle, and identify the materials needed.
      8. Demonstrate how to clean an air rifle safely.
      9. Discuss what points you would consider in selecting an air rifle.
      10. Using a BB gun or pellet air rifle and shooting from a benchrest or supported prone position at 15 feet for BB guns or 33 feet for air rifles, fire five groups (three shots per group) that can be covered by a quarter.
      11. Adjust sights to center the group on the target and fire five groups (five shots per group). According to the target used, each shot in the group must meet the following minimum score: (1) BB rifle at 15 feet or 5 meters using TQ-5 targets—8; (2) pellet air rifle at 25 feet using TQ- 5 targets—8, at 33 feet or 10 meters using AR-1 targets—6.
   3. Muzzleloading Rifle Shooting Option
      1. Give a brief history of the development of muzzleloading rifles.
      2. Identify principal parts of percussion and flintlock rifles and discuss how they function.
      3. Demonstrate and discuss the safe handling of muzzleloading rifles.
      4. Identify the various grades of black powder and their proper use.
      5. Discuss proper safety procedures pertaining to black powder use and storage.
      6. Discuss proper components of a load.
      7. Identify proper procedures and accessories used for loading a muzzleloading rifle.
      8. Demonstrate the knowledge, skills, and attitude necessary to safely shoot a muzzleloading rifle on a range, including range procedures.
      9. Shoot a target with a muzzleloading rifle using the five fundamentals of firing a shot.
      10. Identify the materials needed to clean a muzzleloading rifle safely. Using these materials, demonstrate how to clean a muzzleloading rifle safely.
      11. Identify the causes of a muzzleloading rifle’s failure to fire and explain or demonstrate proper correction procedures.
      12. Discuss what points you would consider in selecting a muzzleloading rifle.
      13. Using a muzzleloading rifle of .45 or .50 caliber and shooting from a benchrest or supported prone position, fire three groups (three shots per group) at 50 feet that can be covered by the base of a standard-size soft drink can.
      14. Center the group on the target and fire three groups (five shots per group). According to the target used, each shot in the group must meet the following minimum score: (1) at 25 yards using NRA A-23 or NMLRA 50-yard targets—7; (2) at 50 yards using NRA A-25 or NMLRA 100-yard targets—7.

* NOTE: It is not always practical to adjust the sights (e.g., when using a borrowed fixed-sight rifle).

For requirement 2(l), you may demonstrate your ability to use the shooting fundamentals by shooting five shot groups (five shots per group) in which all shots can be covered by or touch a quarter and then explain how to adjust the sights to zero the rifle used.

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Stamp collecting is one of the most popular hobbies in the world. Boy Scouts can earn the Stamp Collecting merit badge.

The world’s most popular hobby, stamp collecting is enjoyed by millions throughout the world. Through this hobby. you can experience history: postage stamps are like tiny windows that introduce the people of the world to the country’s leaders, customs, history, products, and environment.

Stamp Collecting Merit Badge Requirements

1. Do the following:
1. Discuss how you can better understand people, places, institutions, history, and geography as a result of collecting stamps.
2. Briefly describe some aspects of the history, growth, and development of the United States postal system. Tell how it is different from postal systems in other countries.
2. Define topical stamp collecting. Name and describe three other types of stamp collections.
3. Show at least ONE example of each of the following:
1. Perforated and imperforate stamps
2. Mint and used stamps
3. Sheet, booklet, and coil stamps
4. Numbers on plate block, booklet, or coil, or marginal markings
5. Overprint and surcharge
6. Metered mail
7. Definitive, commemorative, semipostal, and airmail stamps
8. Cancellation and postmark
9. First day cover
10. Postal stationery (aerogramme, stamped envelope, and postal card)
4. Do the following:
1. Demonstrate the use of ONE standard catalog for several different stamp issues. Explain why catalog value can vary from the corresponding purchase price.
2. Explain the meaning of the term condition as used to describe a stamp. Show examples that illustrate the different factors that affect a stamp’s value.
5. Demonstrate the use of at least THREE of the following stamp collector’s tools:
1. Stamp tongs
2. Water and tray
3. Magnifiers
4. Hinges and stamp mounts
5. Perforation gauge
6. Glassine envelopes and cover sleeves
7. Watermark fluid
6. Do the following:
1. Show a stamp album and how to mount stamps with or without hinges. Show at least ONE page that displays several stamps.
2. Discuss at least THREE ways you can help to preserve stamps, covers, and albums in first-class condition.
7. Do at least TWO of the following:
1. Design a stamp, cancellation, or cachet.
2. Visit a post office, stamp club, or stamp show with an experienced collector. Explain what you saw and learned.
3. Write a review of an interesting article from a stamp newspaper, magazine, book, or Web site (with your parent’s permission).
4. Research and report on a famous stamp-related personality or the history behind a particular stamp.
5. Describe the steps taken to produce a stamp. Include the methods of printing, types of paper, perforation styles, and how they are gummed.
6. Prepare a two- to three-page display involving stamps. Using ingenuity, as well as clippings, drawings, etc., tell a story about the stamps and how they relate to history, geography, or a favorite topic of yours.
8. Mount and show, in a purchased or homemade album, ONE of the following:
1. A collection of 250 or more different stamps from at least 15 countries.
2. A collection of a stamp from each of 50 different countries, mounted on maps to show the location of each.
3. A collection of 100 or more different stamps from either one country or a group of closely related countries.
4. A collection of 75 or more different stamps on a single topic. (Some interesting topics are Scouting, birds, insects, the Olympics, sports, flowers, animals, ships, holidays, trains, famous people, space, and medicine.) Stamps may be from different countries.
5. A collection of postal items discovered in your mail by monitoring it over a period of 30 days. Include at least five different types listed in requirement 3.

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Earning the Scouting Heritage merit badge helps Boy Scouts learn about the history of the Scouting movement and understand how the Boy Scout program developed.

Working on the Scouting Heritage merit badge helps Scouts learn the history of the Boy Scouts of America. They’ll learn it all – from Scouting’s beginnings under Lord Baden-Powell to the history of their own troop.

Scouting Heritage Merit Badge Requirements

1. Discuss with your counselor the life and times of Lord Baden-Powell of Gilwell. Explain why he felt a program like Scouting would be good for the young men of his day. Include in your discussion how Scouting was introduced in the United States, and the origins of Boy Scouting and Cub Scouting under Baden-Powell.
2. Do the following:
1. Give a short biographical summary of any TWO of the following, and tell of their roles in how Scouting developed and grew in the United States prior to 1940.
1. Daniel Carter Beard
2. William D. Boyce
3. Waite Phillips
4. Ernest Thompson Seton
5. James E. West
2. Discuss the significance to Scouting of any TWO of the following:
1. Brownsea Island
2. The First World Scout Jamboree
3. Boy Scout Handbook
4. Boys’ Life magazine
3. Discuss with your counselor how Scouting’s programs have developed over time and been adapted to fit different age groups and interests (Cub Scouting, Boy Scouting, Exploring, Venturing).
4. Do ONE of the following:
1. Attend either a BSA national jamboree, OR world Scout jamboree, OR a national BSA high-adventure base. While there, keep a journal documenting your day-to-day experiences. Upon your return, report to your counselor what you did, saw, and learned. You may include photos, brochures, and other documents in your report.
2. Write or visit the National Scouting Museum in Irving, Texas.* Obtain information about this facility. Give a short report on what you think the role of this museum is in the Scouting program. *If you visited the BSA’s traveling tour, Adventure Base 100, in 2010, you may use that experience to fulfill requirement 4b.
5. Learn about the history of your unit or Scouting in your area. Interview at least two people (one from the past and one from the present) associated with your troop. These individuals could be adult unit leaders, Scouts, troop committee members, or representatives of your troop’s chartered organization. Find out when your unit was originally chartered. Create a report of your findings on the history of your troop, and present it to your patrol or troop or at a court of honor, and then add it to the troop’s library. This presentation could be in the form of an oral/written report, an exhibit, a scrapbook, or a computer presentation such as a slide show.
6. Make a collection of some of your personal patches and other Scouting memorabilia. With their permission, you may include items borrowed from family members or friends who have been in Scouting in the past, or you may include photographs of these items. Show this collection to your counselor, and share what you have learned about items in the collection. (There is no requirement regarding how large or small this collection must be.)
7. Reproduce the equipment for an old-time Scouting game such as those played at Brownsea Island. You may find one on your own (with your counselor’s approval), or pick one from the Scouting Heritage merit badge pamphlet. Teach and play the game with other Scouts.
8. Interview at least three people (different from those you interviewed for requirement 5) over the age of 50 who were Scouts. Find out about their Scouting experiences. Ask about the impact that Scouting has had on their lives. Share what you learned with your counselor.

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When a few of our Boy Scouts earned their Small-Boat Sailing merit badge a couple of years ago, they would yell “Pirate Adventure!” as they walked down to the waterfront at camp. They loved doing this badge.

Sailing is one of the most enjoyable pastimes on the open water. The quiet and peacefulness of the water can provide a pleasant break from everyday life. However, smooth sailing requires paying careful attention to safety.

Small Boat Sailing Merit Badge Requirements

1. Do the following:
1. Explain first aid for injuries or illnesses that could occur while small-boat sailing, including hypothermia, dehydration, heat reactions, motion sickness, cuts, scratches, abrasions, contusions, puncture wounds, and blisters.
2. Identify the conditions that must exist before performing CPR on a person, and explain how to recognize such conditions. Demonstrate proper technique for performing CPR using a training device approved by your counselor.
2. Before doing the following requirements, successfully complete the BSA swimmer test.
3. Describe the boat you will be using for the sailing requirement, naming all of the major parts and the function of those parts.*
4. Before going afloat, do the following:
1. Discuss the nine points of the BSA Safety Afloat plan.
2. Explain the rules of the road in general and any specific rules or laws that apply to your area or state.
3. Explain how water conditions, the hazards of weather, and heavy winds can affect both safety and performance in sailing.
4. Discuss the warning signs of inclement weather and what to do should heavy winds develop or a storm approach.
5. Prepare a typical float plan.
6. Discuss the proper clothing, footwear, and personal gear required for small-boat sailing in warm weather and in cool weather. Explain how choosing the proper clothing, footwear, and personal gear will help keep you comfortable and safe while sailing.
5. Discuss with your counselor how to identify the wind direction and wind indicators. Explain the importance of this task before setting sail.
6. Following the BSA Safety Afloat plan, show that you and a buddy can sail a boat properly. Do the following:
1. Prepare a boat for sailing, including a safety inspection.
2. Get underway from a dock, mooring, or beach.
3. Properly set sails for a round-trip course approved by your counselor that will include running, beating, and reaching–the basic points of sail. While sailing, demonstrate good helmsmanship skills.
4. Change direction by tacking; change direction by jibing.
5. Demonstrate getting out of irons.
6. Demonstrate the safety position.
7. Demonstrate capsize procedures and the rescue of a person overboard.**
8. Demonstrate the procedure to take after running aground.
9. Upon returning to the dock, mooring, or beach, properly secure all equipment, furl or stow sails, and prepare the craft for unattended docking or beaching overnight or longer.
7. Demonstrate a working knowledge of marlinespike seamanship. Do the following:
1. Show how to tie a square (reef) knot, clove hitch, two half hitches, bowline, cleat hitch, and figure-eight knot. Demonstrate the use of each.
2. Show how to heave a line, coil a line, and fake down a line.
3. Discuss the kinds of lines used on sailboats and the types of fibers used in their manufacture. Explain the advantages and disadvantages of each.
8. Describe how you would care for and maintain a sailboat and its gear throughout the year.
9. With your counselor, review sailing terminology and the points of sail. Discuss various types of sailboats in use today and explain their differences

* The skills may be demonstrated on any boat available to the Scout; sailboards are not acceptable. While no specific sail plan is recommended, it is suggested that the craft be smaller than 20 feet. The boat must be capsizable and have the capability of sailing to windward.
** Capsize procedures should be conducted under the close supervision of the counselor. A rescue boat should be standing by to assist, if necessary, and to tow the capsized craft to shore. Selfbailing boats are acceptable for this requirement. Extreme care should be taken to avoid personal injury and damage to the boat or equipment.

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All of my sons earned the shooting sports recognitions as Cub Scouts, either at day camp or resident camp. If you have a Cub Scout who loves to shoot, find an opportunity for him to earn the Archery pin  from the Cub Scout Academics and Sports Program. Remember, Cub Scouts can only earn archery recognition items at council or district day camp, resident camp, or council-managed family camping programs. 

Archery Pin Requirements

Earn the archery belt loop, and complete five of the following requirements:

1. Explain the parts of a bow and demonstrate how to string the bowstring in a proficient manner.
2. Demonstrate how to properly use archery equipment, including arm guards, finger tabs, and quivers and explain about proper clothing.
3. Develop proficient shooting techniques by practicing for three hours.
4. Learn the correct scoring techniques for target archery.
5. Make a poster that emphasizes the four whistle codes.
6. Draw to scale or set up an archery range.
7. Shoot 30 arrows from a distance of 30 feet at a target and score at least 50 points, or shoot 30 arrows from a distance of 90 feet and score at least 30 points.
8. Help make a type of target for the camp archery range.
9. Show how to put away and properly store archery equipment.
10. ell five facts about an archer in history or literature.

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BSA offers supplemental pack program ideas for each month. It looks like the newest theme for the July core value of Courage will be a Cubs in Shining Armor theme. This one was the program theme at least once in the past. So I’ll be adding some ideas related to the theme this month.

Here is what the old program helps said about this theme:

Let our heroes shine as they welcome new Cub Scout Knights into their den and pack. Learn about chivalry and the rules of the Roundtable. Make medieval costumes and design your own coat of arms. Find out what life was like in the times of castles and knights. Cub Scouts can be “knighted” as they advance in rank.

So this theme will revolve around the ideas of honor and service. So organize a summer service project. Knights went on quests, so you could have some sort of fun “quest scavenger hunt”. And if your council or district offers a chance to earn your Archery Belt Loop and Pin, your Cub Scouts can learn to be archers, just like the knights of old.

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My sons collect all sorts of things. So they really enjoyed earning the Collecting belt loop from the Cub Scout Academics and Sports Program. As a den leader, I always did  this in conjunction with Wolf  Achievement 6 – Start a Collection. There is a lot of overlap between the two.

Collecting Belt Loop Requirements

Complete these three requirements:

1. Begin a collection of at least 10 items that all have something in common. Label the items and title your collection.
2. Display your collection at a pack or den meeting.
3. Visit a show or museum that displays different collections.

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Purchasing information: BSA Norman Rockwell’s Boy Scouts of America

From the publisher

Since the beginning of the Scouting movement in America 100 years ago, events have been recorded in paintings and drawings by an official artist. Remarkably, there have been just two official artists in all that time: Norman Rockwell and Joseph Csatari. Through brushstrokes of oil paint on canvas, the artists chronicle the history of Scouting in America – from campouts, hikes, and pinewood derby races to the Scouts public service initiatives throughout their long history. Their artwork celebrates the boyhood joys of Scouting whilst illustrating a code of honor and ideals that has shaped generations of young men.

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Boy Scouts learn about motor boat operation and safety while working on the Motorboating merit badge.

With the fun of operating a motor boat boat comes the responsibility for keeping that boat in first-class condition, knowing and obeying the nautical “rules of the road,” and gaining the general knowledge and skills to operate a boat safely.

Motorboating Merit Badge Requirements

1. Do the following:
   1. Explain to your counselor the most likely hazards you may encounter while motorboating, and what you should do to anticipate, help prevent, mitigate, and respond to these hazards.
   2. Explain first aid for injuries or illnesses that could occur while motorboating, including hypothermia, heat reactions, dehydration, motion sickness, bugbites, and blisters.
   3. Identify the conditions that must exist before performing CPR on a person, and explain how such conditions are recognized. Demonstrate proper technique for performing CPR using a training device approved by your counselor.
2. Do the following:
1. Before doing requirements 3 through 6, successfully complete the BSA swimmer test.
2. Name the different types of personal flotation devices (PFDs), and explain when each type should be used. Show how to choose and properly fit a PFD.
3. Do the following:
1. Explain inboard, outboard, and inboard/outboard motors, and the uses and advantages of each. Discuss the special features of a bass boat and a ski boat.
2. Explain the safety procedures and precautions involving handling fuel and engine servicing, and equipment storage and placement.
3. Explain how to winterize a boat motor and tell why this procedure is necessary.
4. Explain the safety procedures and precautions involving swimmers and skiers in the water, passenger positions under way, and boat wakes.
4. Show you know safety laws for motorboating by doing the following:
1. Have a permit to run a motorboat, if needed.
2. Explain the rules or laws that apply to recreational boating in your area or state.
3. Discuss how the hazards of weather and heavy water conditions can affect both safety and performance in motorboating.
4. Promise that you will follow BSA Safety Afloat guidelines. Explain the meaning of each point.
5. Discuss with your counselor the nautical rules of the road and describe the national and your state’s aids to navigation.
6. Explain and show the correct use of equipment required by both state and federal regulations to be carried aboard a motorboat.
7. Explain federal and state rules for a ventilation system, and tell why these rules are required.
5. 5. Demonstrate proper boat-handling procedures and skills by doing the following:
1. Board and assist others in boarding.
2. Fuel the boat and complete a safety check.
3. Get under way from dockside or from a beach launch.
4. Run a course for at least a mile, showing procedures for overtaking and passing slower craft, yielding right-of-way, passing oncoming traffic, making turns, reversing direction, and using navigation aids.
5. Stop and secure the boat in position on the open water using anchors; get under way.
6. Land or dock; get out and assist others.
7. Moor the boat and secure all gear.
6. Point out and explain the mechanical and safety features of a boat trailer. With others assisting, do the following:
1. Launch a boat from a trailer.
2. Remove a boat from the water using a trailer.

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Purchasing information: Beginning Boy Scouts

From the publisher:

Beginning Boy Scouts is an introduction to the youth program of the Boy Scouts of America. It is an unofficial guide to Boy Scouting to help parents, new leaders, and even scouting youth to better understand scouting goals and participate in Boy Scouting. It quickly answers numerous common questions and provides instruction and advice for parents and leaders — to help know “what is first?” and how to get started, preparing for outdoor activities and summer camp, uniforms, leadership and the Patrol Method, earning awards and badges, Eagle planning and Eagle paperwork, and how to participate. It introduces the terminology and defines the common scouting lingo.

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