Rank Requirement Changes
I just picked up a notice from BSA about Rank Requirement Changes for 2008. These changes affect Tenderfoot, Second Class and First Class candidates.
Communications Merit Badge
For the last couple of weeks and continuing for the next couple of weeks, we will be working on the Communications Merit Badge. This is an Eagle Required merit badge that’s not too hard to complete. The requirements path we will take will be (1d, 2b, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7 (b or c), 8, 9). Some of the requirements must be started (or completed outside of the meetings) (3, 4, 5, 9). Please have your scout work on requirements 3, 4, 5 and 9 and be prepared to present when they are ready. This coming Monday will concentrate on completed requirements 3, 6 and 9.
Bartle Scout Camp
Our summer camp session is quickly approaching; July 27 - August 5, 2008. Before we attend camp, EVERYONE must have an updated health form — no exceptions. Updates to health forms are based on age. Everyone must have a completed Class 1 Health form signed annually. All under the age of 40 must have a completed Class 2 Health form updated and renewed by a physical every third year. Those over the age of 40, must have a completed Class 3 Health form which requires a physical exam every year. If your scout requires special medication, we must have an Administering Medications form on file. Also it is now a requirement for us to have on file a Picture/Photo Release Form. These forms are kept at summer camp for the session and are kept at the troop for use in emergency situations throughout the year. We require these forms for all activities. Please ensure your scout’s (or your) health forms are in order. Contact Mr. White at the next troop meeting to be sure.
Bartle Summer Camp Merit Badges
Merit badges are essential to making higher ranks and there’s no better place to concentrate on merit badges than Merit Badge Academy and Summer Camp. Please have your scout fill out (circle) the desired merit badges for summer camp and bring the completed form to the next meeting. Also, certain merit badges are available in the troop. Be sure to see our list of Merit Badge Counselors. If you need to earn other merit badges, please check the council web search tool for the full registry of Merit Badge Counselors.
Bartle Outposts
We have three confirmed Outpost Programs for session 6: Action Archery, Carnival in the Woods and Turkey Wing Gun Club.
Uniforming
Reminder: During the summer time (when Belton Schools are not in session), we enjoy wearing the Activity Uniform (commonly known as the Class B). Of course, if you need a Scoutmaster Conference or a Board of Review, you should wear the Field Uniform (Class A). Even the Class B should be worn as a uniform; being neat, clean and properly tucked and scout related. The Scoutmaster will be in Class A for all meetings.
Please review the 
