Scouting Magazine launches redesign

Magazine will introduce its most sweeping redesign in 12 years

Irving, TX, July 28, 2009 - Scouting, the Boy Scouts of America's publication for adult leaders, will debut an eye-catching, cover-to-cover redesign with the September-October 2009 issue.

The editors' goal is to publish articles that provide valuable "What's-In-It-For Me?" information for readers.

"Scouting's redesign puts an emphasis on columns and features that can make our volunteers become more effective leaders of Cub Scouts, Boy Scouts, and Ventures," said Scott Daniels, the magazine's managing editor. "Shorter articles, larger displays of photography and illustrations, and numerous informational graphics make the magazine an easier read and provide the BSA's 1 million volunteers the motivation to 'Lead, Inspire, Explore,' as characterized by the magazine's new tagline."

The magazine's graphic redesign is presented in four sections.

The first, called Trailhead, offers news and information about people and events, reviews of books or videos, humorous Scouting anecdotes, and topics of historical interest.

The next section, Roundtable, includes FAQ's about advancement, a column for merit badge counselors, and an interview with a veteran Scouter, titled "What I've Learned." Two other columns emphasize teaching ethics to youth and focus on adolescent boy behavior. "What Would You Do?" provides reader responses to a question posed by a unit volunteer.

Scouting's main features will continue to showcase the nation's finest unit, district, and council programs, as well as provide information on current topics that leaders can use in their dens, packs, troops, and crews.

Last but not least, Scouting delivers equipment reviews, guides for better camping, Dutch oven recipes, and tips on how to survive almost anything in a new back-of-the-book section - Outdoors.

The magazine will now publish five times a year instead of six.

All adult volunteers and professional Scouters receive the magazine as part of their registration fee. Issue dates are January-February, March-April, May-June, September-October, and November-December. The magazine's expanded web site offerings now include a weekday blog, Cracker Barrel, that further celebrates the fellowship of Scouters.

Demonstrating the BSA's environmental commitment, Scouting is certified by the Sustainable Forestry Initiative. The SFI is dedicated to promoting sustainable forest management. As a part of carrying the certification, Scouting adheres to a strict policy of environmental responsibility and will undergo annual surveillance audits as well as full certification against the SFI Standard every five years.

Award-winning Scouting is the BSA's indispensable publication for 1 million adult members. It strengthens these volunteers' abilities to better perform their leadership roles in Cub Scouting, Boy Scouting, and Venturing, while reinforcing the organization's character- and values-based program for 2.2 million youth.