While I was not involved in Cub Scouts at the time, a quick Google search brought up an article from the September-October 2008 edition of Scouting Magazine detailing how to use those beads, along with the white diamond that held the lanyards for them as a part of Tiger Cub advancement and immediate recognition. How to use beads to encourage Tiger Cub advancement - Scouting magazine  

I was a Cubmaster during that period and am not familiar with this.  Looks like a local Unit-specific thing, not official BSA.  

We’ve just gone through our Cub Scout closet and found this old pony bead container with a list of what colors are for what. I’m guessing mid to late 80s as Tiger Cubs are mentioned, but as it is a typed sheet (rather than printed), I’m guessing not into the 90s - any ideas?

04/19/2024 Iowa:  Just before deadline, Gov. Reynolds signs statute of limitations bill for Iowa Boy Scout abuse victims. Sources: https://dailyiowan.com/2024/04/19/iowa-gov-kim-reynolds-signs-law-helping-boy-scout-sexual-abuse-survivors/ https://www.kcrg.com/2024/04/19/gov-reynolds-signs-bill-help-boy-scout-sex-abuse-victims/

I created those two topics in the Open Discussion-Program subforum https://www.scouter.com/topic/33762-all-things-sea-scouting/ https://www.scouter.com/topic/33763-sea-scout-recruitmentbrainstorm-here/