Troop 141

04/11/2026

02/14/2026

📣 80 Merit Badges Updated for 2026

Scouting America has refreshed 80 merit badges for 2026—some received minor tuneups, while others were fully overhauled to reflect today’s technology, safety practices, and learning needs.

The goal? To modernize and strengthen the merit badge program so it remains relevant, meaningful, and accessible to Scouts.

🔎 Key Updates Now in Effect (as of January 1)

Careers & Hobbies Expanded
Many badges now include both career and hobby exploration options, giving Scouts flexibility to connect their interests to future opportunities.

Personal Fitness Overhaul
• Physical exam requirement removed (Scouts discuss the importance instead)
• Requirements accessible to Scouts with disabilities
• Nutrition language updated for sensitivity
• 12-week program clarified as consecutive (with flexibility for extenuating circumstances)

Modern Technology Added
• Radio now includes Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, 5G and RFID
• Model Design and Building includes digital design and 3D printing
• Weather adds checking forecast sources before activities

Safety Enhancements
• Public safety and “If You See Something, Say Something” added
• Travel safety and online safety updated
• Leave No Trace integrated into additional outdoor badges

Other Significant Updates
• Chess expanded to include openings and tournaments
• Search and Rescue clarifies staying put and signaling
• Traffic Safety addresses distracted driving and blind spots
• Wilderness Survival emphasizes planning and decision-making

These updates help ensure Scouts continue developing real-world skills while upholding the values of the Scout Oath and Scout Law.

🔗 Learn more and explore merit badge resources here:
https://www.scouting.org/skills/merit-badges/

02/12/2026

Great news for Scouts and leaders! 🎉

Merit badge pamphlets are getting a modern upgrade.

Instead of printed requirement lists, each pamphlet will now include a QR code and URL that link directly to the latest requirements in the Merit Badge Hub on scouting.org. That means you will always have the most current information and resources right at your fingertips. 📲

Here is what to expect:

🆓 QR codes are now being added to free downloadable pamphlets
🏬 Newly printed pamphlets with QR codes will begin appearing in Scout Shops in 2026
🔄 Updates will continue as pamphlets are revised and reprinted over the next several years

Why the change?

🛠 Merit badge requirements are regularly reviewed and updated to stay current with technology, best practices, and current events.
📅 While many updates take effect each year on January 1, safety related changes can happen at any time.
✅ This new approach keeps the in-depth content and inspiration in the pamphlet aligned with the most up-to-date requirements, whether you are using a downloaded PDF or a printed copy.

A smart step forward to keep Scouting current, accurate, and accessible for everyone. 🧭

11/11/2025

CUBMASTER'S CORNER: "How to Make Retired Flag Remembrance Tokens" by Cub Scouts Cubmaster, Andrew Collins, Pack 365 from Capitol Area Council in Texas!
Since I’m rounding the corner of completing my tenure as Cubmaster... here’s my extra “hour” this week after our campout. Made tokens for the cubs who helped retire some flags and will be performing the Veterans Day flag ceremony at our school in a couple weeks.
HOW I DID IT:
1) I cleaned off grommets after retirement ceremony.
2) Found the RWB paracord online (https://amzn.to/33RvjCu)
3) Cut about 3’ and started with larks head on the grommet.
5) Five 2 strand wall knots for the braid. Looped enough to fit over shoulder loop and a tight overhand knot to finish and have a little adjustment.
6) Trim close & then fuse ends close.
7) Hoping for some honoured smiles!
What a great scouting tradition!
What do you do for your scouts (cubs, boys or girls) on Veterans Day? Let us know below👇🏽(& if you want, would be happy to share too!)
PIN this: pinterest.com/pin/712624341022890468
Retweet this: twitter.com/allaboutscouts/status/1186850475079024640
Instagram: www.instagram.com/p/B38gjkGoGQT/

11/07/2025

07/21/2025

This day in history (& scouting history)

07/10/2025

📚 Big news from Scouting America! All merit badge pamphlets are now available for free as PDFs on the official Merit Badge Hub. 🧭💻 From Digital Tech to Environmental Science, Scouts can explore new skills anytime, anywhere.

Prefer printed copies? They're still available at your local Scout Shop.

👉 Always check the merit badge homepage or Scoutbook for the most up-to-date requirements!

https://blog.scoutingmagazine.org/2025/07/09/the-big-blue-boy-scout-is-back-on-the-big-screen-and-its-spectacular-2/