Table of Contents
Friends of Scouting
Friends of Scouting is Tidewater Council’s annual giving campaign. The Friends of Scouting campaign provides 21% of the council’s annual budget – that means more than a fifth of every dollar in the council budget comes from the generosity of Scouting families, alumni, and community supporters. Friends of Scouting keeps the overall cost of Scouting affordable so all families can participate.
Campaign Progress as of February 27, 2023
Each district shares a portion of the overall goal:
Has your unit scheduled its 2023 Friends of Scouting presentation? It is a great opportunity to hear about some of the council’s highlights and accomplishments over the past year, and to illustrate to families how the program is funded. All units that hold a Friends of Scouting presentation will receive a special ribbon for their unit flag. Contact your district executive to schedule your presentation.
Upcoming Events
VFW Scout of the Year Nomination Deadline
March 1
Annually, the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) awards three individuals who have risen above their peers in exemplifying the qualities of the highest youth Scouting ranks. Recipients can be awarded scholarships at both the local and national levels.
The deadline to apply is March 1, 2023 at 11 PM. Please review the local handout from VFW Post 392 for more information, as well as the brochure and entry form.
Pinewood Derby
March - April
Get your engines ready – it is Pinewood Derby season!
What is a Pinewood Derby? The Pinewood Derby is one of the most popular and successful family activities in Cub Scouting. Cub Scouts design and build their own small wooden cars, with some help from their families. Then they race their cars in competition, down a gravity-powered track.
Win or lose, Cub Scouts will take pride in having done their best. Cub Scouts learn craft skills, STEM principles, the rules of fair play, and good sportsmanship—things they will remember for life.
You can view the 2023 Pinewood Derby Rules & Procedures for Tidewater Council here. Scouts must make a new car each year.
Albemarle District Pinewood Derby: March 4
Get ready to rumble at the Albemarle District Pinewood Derby on March 4 at 10 AM at Sawyer’s Creek Baptist Church, 241 Sawyers Creek Road, Camden, NC 27921, just minutes from downtown Elizabeth City. All racers of each rank from every pack in Albemarle District are eligible to race. Arrows of Light (AOL) who have just bridged to a troop are still eligible. Family Fun Run races are an open class that will race after the qualified racers. The entry fee for qualified pack racers is $8.50 per car. Family racers are $10 per car (no trophies for family racers; this is for bragging rights only).
Registration is open now on Black Pug. The deadline to register is Friday, March 3 at 5 PM. For more information, contact Anthony Dowd at adowd2@yahoo.com.
Bayside District Pinewood Derby: March 4
Start your engines and race to the Bayside District Pinewood Derby on March 4, 2023 at Larchmont United Methodist Church, 1101 Jamestown Crescent, Norfolk, VA 23508. The top three finishers of each rank from every pack in Bayside District are eligible to race. Arrows of Light (AOL) who have just bridged to a troop are still eligible. The entry fee for qualified pack racers is $11.00 per car.
Races will be staggered starting at 10:00 AM. Start times are tentative and may be delayed, depending upon the number of racers. In no case will a rank begin racing before the scheduled start time.
Arrow of Light (Grade 5): 10:00 AM
Webelos (Grade 4): 10:30 AM
Bear: 11:00 AM
Wolf: 11:30 AM
Tiger: 12:00 PM
Lions: 12:30 PM
Finals: Immediately following Lions at approximately 1:00 PM
Registration is now closed.
Three Rivers District Pinewood Derby: March 4
Get ready for the Three Rivers District Pinewood Derby! The top three finishers of each rank from every pack in Three Rivers district are eligible to race. Arrows of Light (AOL) who have just bridged to a troop are still eligible.
The races will take place at Church of the Resurrection, 3501 Cedar Lane, Portsmouth, VA 23703. Register by March 2.
Princess Anne District Pinewood Derby: March 25
Race time is fast approaching, so get your cars prepped! On March 25 at Old Donation Episcopal Church, find out which car is the fastest racer in the district at each rank level.
The top three pack finishers from each rank from every Princess Anne District Cub Scout pack are eligible to enter this event. Arrow of Light Scouts who raced with their pack this year and have since bridged to Scouts BSA are eligible to race. If a qualified racer cannot attend, the Pack Pinewood Derby Coordinator can substitute.
Council Pinewood Derby: April 1
Scouts who qualify in the top three of their class at the district level will qualify for the council derby. We hope to see you there!
University of Scouting
March 11
The University of Scouting is the largest annual training event for Scouts and Scouters of all ages in Cub Scouting, Scouts BSA, Sea Scouting, Venturing, and Exploring. All leaders, parents, and volunteers are encouraged to attend this fun-filled conference to learn new skills and make new friends. Adults and youth (10+) will participate in exciting classes, while Cub Scouts and younger siblings will have fun at day camp.
Registration
Register on Black Pug at scoutingevent.com/596-UoS2023
Classes Include:
- First Aid/CPR/AED
- How to Backup a Trailer
- Basic Boating
- Pizza Cooked More Ways Than You Can Imagine
- Iron Chef Competition
- The History of Women in BSA
- First-Hand Experience of Scouting Adventures
- International Opportunities
- Using Social Media & Other Technologies
- Scouts with Special Needs
- High Adventure
- Project Management
- Mentoring
- Older Youth Programs: Sea Scouts, Venturing, and Exploring
- And MUCH more!
Cub Scout Day Camp
Bring the whole family to a fun-filled day!
Sasquatch Expedition – The ESCAPE!
Experience a brand-new escape room.
Staff & Instructors Wanted
Teach the next generation of Scouts & Scouters.
Midway Booths Available
Space available for vendors, information booths, demonstrations, and units.
Contact
For more information, please contact Keegan Daley at TidewaterUniversityOfScouting@gmail.com
Register by March 4!
Den Chief Training
March 11
Den Chief Training combines fun and enjoyment with an excellent character‐building experience. Participants learn leadership, organization, and, most importantly, how to work with Cub Scouts.
The training is designed for current and aspiring den chiefs. Adults who work with den chiefs are encouraged to attend as well; den leaders will benefit from learning about the den chief role and how den chiefs can best support the den.
Den Chief Training will be offered during University of Scouting on March 11. There are additional youth courses for ages 10+, so Scouts can enjoy a full day at the University.
2023 Annual Leadership Breakfast
Featuring NFL MVP Mark Moseley
March 15
Tidewater Council’s Annual Leadership Breakfast honors and supports the efforts of thousands of volunteers who provide a quality year-round Scouting program to youth in southeastern Virginia and northeastern North Carolina.
Keynote speaker Mark Moseley is the only special teams player to win the NFL MVP award. With an impressive career spanning 1970-1987, Mark Moseley is the all-time scoring leader for Washington’s NFL team.
To learn more about how you, your company, or your community group can host a table, please contact Christy Cooper at christy.cooper@scouting.org. RSVP by March 9.
Basic Adult Leader Outdoor Orientation (BALOO)
March 17-18
This one-and-a-half-day course introduces the Cub Scout outdoor program for leaders interested in including a camping component in their pack activities. BALOO training consists of an online pre-requisite component and an overnight, hands-on practical. BALOO teaches BSA’s Cub Scout camping policies and equips leaders to carry out a successful camping experience. Completion of this course is mandatory for at least one adult on every pack overnighter.
Albemarle District will host a BALOO course March 17-18 at Shiloh Baptist Church in Shiloh, NC.
If you cannot attend the March BALOO training, save the date for the next course: April 15-16 at Camp Baker in Chesapeake. Registration for the April course is open on Black Pug as well.
Wood Badge
March 24-26 and April 22-23
Wood Badge is the preeminent Scouting leadership program for adult leaders. Wood Badge courses make Scouters better leaders by teaching advanced leadership skills, and by creating a bond amongst leaders working toward improving Scouting for all.
Wood Badge Course NST15-596-23 will be held at Pipsico Scout Reservation on Friday, March 24 – Sunday, March 26 and Saturday, April 22 – Sunday, April 23, 2023. Participants must attend both weekends of the course activities to complete the practical phase of the training.
For more information, contact NST15-596-23 Course Director Matthew Hipsher at dubroq@gmail.com or your district training chair.
Wood Badge Scholarships
Need-based financial assistance is available. Please contact TWC596training@gmail.com for more information.
Welcome from Course Director Matthew Hipsher
Thank you for your interest in Wood Badge! Wood Badge training was begun by Baden-Powell in 1919 to ensure that the leaders of Scout troops were properly trained. Since then, Wood Badge has been held worldwide, providing advanced leadership training to thousands of Scout leaders.
But you might be wondering, why should I attend Wood Badge? For me, Wood Badge taught me a myriad of things, including communication skills I have used with youth and adults, team building, unit recruiting techniques, how all the Scouting programs work together to teach character building and leadership skills to our youth, and countless other things not taught in the basic leader trainings for our programs. But my biggest take away in my years of involvement with this course is the personal connections to other leaders I have made. Be it mentors, partners, resources, or friends that eventually become family, the #1 reason I tell leaders to attend is the exposure to other great leaders like yourself. The skills learned at Wood Badge will not only help your Scouting unit excel, but will also benefit your personal and professional lives as well.
Join us in March and April at Pipsico Scout Reservation for the 2023 Wood Badge Course. Consider bringing along a friend to share in the fun. I will guarantee you will have a great time, will make friends, will be challenged, and will have lots of fun doing it.
2023 Tidewater Council Living Legends Nominations Due
March 25
Nominations are now open for 2023 Tidewater Council Living Legends.
Each year, Tidewater Council recognizes those volunteers who continue to provide significant leadership, service, and support to Scouting over many years and in many roles, and who continue serving after they may have been recognized in other traditional ways (Silver Beaver, Award of Merit, etc.). Help acknowledge those volunteers for their continued contributions before their council peers at the Tidewater Council Annual Recognition Banquet. Provide inspiration for others to also continue their valued service to Scouting.
Nomination forms must be received no later than Saturday, March 25, 2023 to be considered.
Elbert K. Fretwell Outstanding Educator Award Nominations Due
March 31
Nominations are now open for the Elbert K. Fretwell Outstanding Educator Award.
The Fretwell Award is presented to those who work in education and who follow the BSA’s mission “to prepare young people to make ethical and moral choices over their lifetimes by instilling in them the values of the Scout Oath and Law.”
Any school employee who is equipping students to make moral and ethical choices is eligible for this award. This could be a teacher, administrator, custodian, cafeteria worker, attendance clerk, resource officer, teacher’s aide, or any number of others.
To nominate a worthy educator, please submit the nomination form to FretwellTidewaterBSA@gmail.com by March 31, 2023.
Scouting Olympics
Three Rivers District Spring Camporee
March 31 - April 2
At the Three Rivers District Spring Camporee, Scouts will spend a fun-filled weekend practicing and demonstrating Scouting skills while participating in Olympic-style challenges. Each unit will compete to win the Traveling District Trophy by earning points during patrol and unit-related challenges.
- Patrol and unit challenges that incorporate teamwork and communication skills
- Scout Spirit and campsite inspection points
- Saturday campfire, with options to play a video or perform a skit or song
- Scouts Own Service
- OA Call-Out
Join us at Camp Kiwanis, Pipsico Scout Reservation on March 31 – April 2. Registration is $15 per person, and participants must be registered in advance by March 25. On-site registration will not be accepted.
For more information, please contact Mike Zemienieuski at mzemienieuski@gmail.com or 757-617-7440, or Kirsten Misfeldt at kmisfeldt62@gmail.com or 757-323-6172.
Princess Anne District Awards Breakfast
April 1
April is volunteer recognition month, and Princess Anne district will kick the month off with a recognition breakfast. Join us on April 1 at 8 AM at the Aragona Family Moose Lodge. Units have been submitting their outstanding volunteers for leaders of the year awards, and this is where the recipients will be honored. Youth and families are invited to attend to help recognize the leaders.
American Red Cross (ARC) Instructor Training
April 15
Tidewater Council will host a course on April 15 at the Mary Jayne Breeden Council Service Center to train registered adult leaders to be ARC Instructors. Course participants must be currently certified in First Aid/CPR/AED. Leaders who are not currently certified can become so at the University of Scouting on March 11.
This training is offered at a substantial discount for Scout leaders, and participants must commit to teaching/co-teaching a course for the Council Training Committee at least once per year after completing the course. This does not include any instructing done at the unit-level.
Back to Brownsea
Bayside District Spring Camporee
April 14-16
Lord Baden-Powell learned to cook all his meals with little to no cooking tools. He would make ovens with various materials. He kept his kitchen area very clean, as he understood the need for sanitation in preventing the spread of disease. He believed every Scout must learn how to cook with few or odd ingredients.
At the Back to Brownsea camporee, troops will be presented with several cooking challenges. Units must decide how to master each challenge, as they will be judged in four categories: presentation, preparation, ingredients, and nutrition.
- Bake-A-Biscuit challenge: For Scoutmasters and Senior Patrol Leaders (See the February 1 “EK” Electronic Knapsack for more details).
- Dutch Oven Bakeoff: For the rest of the troop, compete to make the best dessert.
- “Chopped”: Three cooks are given four ingredients that must be in their recipe.
- Smorgasbord Pleaser: The troop cooks their evening meal (enough to feed the troop plus five more people) and has it judged. Then every troop brings their meal up and everyone in camp has the opportunity to consume all the meals.
How will you divide your Scouts to cook each challenge and deliver to the judges on time? What was the first thing Baden-Powell wanted each Scout to learn so they could cook meat? How did he pluck birds so they could be consumed?
Have you seen all the Back to Brownsea articles in the last four EKs? There could be valuable information to help your troop take first place. What did the boys of Mafeking do for Baden-Powell?
Don’t forget to register talented youth (and adults) for Bayside’s Got Talent!
NATO Festival Parade of Nations
April 22
Tidewater Council Scouting units are invited to volunteer for the NATO Festival Parade of Nations through Downtown Norfolk on Saturday, April 22, 2023 from 10:00-11:30 AM. Scouts are asked to wear their field uniforms. Bring your flags, Scouts, and families. Please contact Nikki Nieves at nnieves@vafest.org to volunteer.
Immediately following the parade, you are invited to visit the International Village at Town Point Park from 11:30 AM-3:00 PM. Explore international heritage with cultural performances, art, cuisine, and more. If you would like to help staff the International Scouting table at the International Village, contact Laura Bussiere at laura.bussiere.2016@gmail.com.
The event also has community service opportunities. If your unit is interested in assisting with building and repair of parade floats, carrying banners for different nations’ floats, helping with customer relations, or other volunteer opportunities, please contact Nikki Nieves at nnieves@vafest.org.
Participation in this event could help complete requirements for Citizenship in the World, International Spirit Award, and the Arrow of Light Building a Better World Adventure.
Capture the Flag!
Albemarle District Spring Camporee
April 28-30
A camporee is many things—camping fun for youth, the thumping of hundreds of feet on the way to an evening campfire, and the blue smoke from fires cooking stew or ham and eggs. It’s the ripple of wind-blown flags in the morning sun. It’s catching the idea of teamwork in a patrol.
This year, Albemarle District will hold its Spring Camporee April 28-30, 2023 at Maple Commerce Park in Maple, NC. The theme is Capture the Flag. Scouts will be challenged while having fun in competitions based upon skills in the Scouts BSA handbook. Come ready for an active and exciting day. Teamwork, physical fitness, sportsmanship, and other skills will be tested by the day’s events.
Don’t forget to bring ingredients to compete in the patrol cook-off. Whip up your tastiest vittles and win the coveted Golden Spatula.
Scout Day at The Adventure Park
May 7
The Adventure Park at Virginia Aquarium presents Boy Scouts Tidewater Council Day on May 7, 2023!
Members of Scouts BSA, Venturing, Sea Scouting, and Exploring, and their guests, are invited to enjoy an “adventure in the trees,” with aerial trails, challenge bridges, and zip lines. Scouts and their guests can register at the discounted rate of $45, and Scouts who bring a uniform item will receive a special patch. Per the Guide to Safe Scouting and the the BSA’s Age-Appropriate Guidelines for Scouting Activities, this event is not for Cub Scout packs.
Each timed ticket will include a 30-minute safety briefing and harnessing session and a three-hour climbing session. Register for your climbing adventure here.
Council Recognition Banquet
May 11
The Annual Recognition Banquet is held each year to recognize Eagle Scouts and the volunteers of Tidewater Council. Some of the highlights of the evening will be the presentation of the George Coker 2022 Class of Eagle Scouts, Silver Beaver Awards, and NESA Outstanding Eagle Scout Awards. The evening will start with dinner served by our own Blue Heron Lodge cook crew. This will be a night of food and fellowship you will not want to miss. Join us on May 11, 2023 at 6 PM at the Khedive Shrine Center, 645 Woodlake Drive, Chesapeake, VA. Registration is open on Black Pug.
Wilderness First Aid
May 13-14
Wilderness first aid, or “WFA”, commonly refers to any training course that focuses on prevention, assessment, and treatment for an ill or injured person in a remote environment where definitive care by a physician and/or rapid transport is not readily available. It is essential to have some basic principles of wilderness first aid and know how to apply them, even under stress. Knowing how to treat minor injuries and keep serious casualties stable until further help is available can make a difference in an emergency situation. Although there are innumerable injuries and ailments, the basic principles of first aid can be applied to almost any situation.
All High Adventure Bases require that at least one person in each crew (Philmont requires two) be currently certified in Wilderness First Aid or the equivalent, and CPR from the American Heart Association, the American Red Cross, or equivalent. Wilderness First Aid is recommended for any unit that is conducting backcountry hiking or camping trips. Attending this training also meets one of the requirements for the Venturing Ranger Award.
Tidewater Council will be offering a Wilderness First Aid course on May 13-14. Registration is now open.
Scouting for Blood Drive
May 17
Did you know that one donation of blood can save up to three lives? Or that every two seconds, someone in the U.S. needs blood? Tidewater Council is partnering with the American Red Cross to host a blood drive through the Pint-Size Hero program. This program introduces youth to the components of blood and the importance of blood donation. Scouts have the opportunity to demonstrate leadership by recruiting blood donors, hosting drives, and engaging in the community.
WHEN:
Wednesday, May 17, 2023
WHERE:
Tidewater Council
Mary Jayne Breeden Council Service Center
1032 Heatherwood Drive
Virginia Beach, VA 23455
TIME:
1-6 PM
MAKE AN APPOINTMENT:
There are two easy ways to schedule your appointment:
1. Visit redcrossblood.org and use the sponsor code “TidewaterBSA” in the “Find a Blood Drive” field.
2. Make your appointment on the American Red Cross Blood Donor App.
CONTACT:
Nicole Moga
704-564-5565
Nmoga149@yahoo.com
CPR for Professional Rescuers
May 18
CPR for Professional Rescuers is for people who will be serving on Aquatics Staff at summer camp or are registered to take BSA Lifeguard training. You must complete the online session prior to attending the in-person skills demonstration.
As part of our commitment to support safer communities, and support you in all that you do, we are proud to partner with the American Red Cross to offer this course.
The in-person portion of the course will be held at the Mary Jayne Breeden Council Service Center on Thursday, May 18.
Adult First Aid/CPR/AED Training
May 20
The Adult First Aid/CPR/AED course incorporates the latest science and teaches students to recognize and care for a variety of first aid emergencies, such as burns, cuts, scrapes, sudden illnesses, and how to respond to breathing and cardiac emergencies for victims about 12 years and older. Successful students will receive a certificate for Adult First Aid/CPR/AED valid for two years. This is a blended learning course; you must complete the online portion before taking one of the skills demonstration sessions.
Registration is now open. There will be three sessions on May 20, limited to 12 students per session.
National Youth Leadership Training (NYLT)
May 26-29 and June 2-4
National Youth Leadership Training (NYLT) is an exciting, action-packed program designed to provide youth Scouts with leadership skills and experience they can use in their home troops and in other situations demanding leadership of self and others.
The NYLT course centers around the concepts of what a leader must BE, what they must KNOW, and what they must DO. The key elements are then taught with a clear focus on HOW TO.
The skills comes alive during the week as the patrol goes on a Quest for the Meaning of Leadership. Content is delivered in a troop and patrol outdoor setting with an emphasis on immediate application of learning in a fun environment. Interconnecting concepts and work processes are introduced early, built upon, and aided by the use of memory aids, which allows participants to understand and employ the leadership skills much faster.
The 2023 course will be held over two weekends: May 26-29 and June 2-4. Scouts must attend both weekends to complete the course.
Portsmouth Memorial Day Parade
May 29
Scout groups are invited to participate in the historic 139th Anniversary of Portsmouth’s Memorial Day Parade. Thousands of spectators, dignitaries, and elected officials are expected to watch from the viewing stand and along the parade route.
Decoration Day began in the 1860s. It was an opportunity to honor fallen soldiers by decorating their graves with flowers. Most celebrations occurred around May 30, as it is the date plants are flowering in every part of the country. Decoration Day gradually came to be known as Memorial Day and, in 1971, the United States Congress recognized the day as a National Holiday honoring all fallen soldiers.
Parade units should remember the reason behind Memorial Day and incorporate something patriotic into their display, such as carrying United States flags, carrying a banner honoring fallen soldiers, or playing patriotic music.
The parade is a rain or shine event. It departs from I.C. Norcom High School (High Street side) at 10 AM and travels down High Street to Water Street, disbanding at the Water Street lot.
To participate, please return the entry form to Renee’ Spratley by May 1, 2023.
Three Rivers District Recognition Banquet
May 31
Scouters and their families are invited to attend a special evening of recognition for Three Rivers district adult leadership. The event will take place at New Creation United Methodist Church in Chesapeake.
To nominate worthy Scouters for district awards, please download the awards packet and submit nominations by April 26, 2023.
Off to the Races
Day Camp 2023
June & July
What is Off to the Races? It is the theme for this summer’s day camps!
At 2023 Cub Scout Day Camp, Scouts will enjoy:
- Great Crafts
- Amazing Science
- Scout Skills
- The Great Range
- The Great Nature
- Sports
- And Much, Much More!
Discover the excitement and adventure for yourself by attending 2023 Cub Scout Day Camp!
Princess Anne Day Camp: June 19-23
Registration is now open for Princess Anne Day Camp at Tabernacle Baptist Academy. Work with the unit day camp coordinator to sign up now.
For questions, contact:
- David Montoto (Camp Director) at totodope@yahoo.com or 757-575-8880
- Ted Green (Program Director) at greentn83@gmail.com or 724-931-0224
More Day Camps
The Day Camp Planning Committee is currently booking locations for camps in Albemarle, Bayside, and Three Rivers districts. The tentative dates for these day camps are:
- June 19-23 in Albemarle; contact Tiffany Bounds at tnt8596@yahoo.com
- June 19-23 in Bayside; contact Amy DeVault at konshak@yahooo.com
- June 26-30 (twilight camp) in Three Rivers; contact Kirsten Misfeldt at kmisfeldt62@gmail.com
Summer Camp 2023
June & July
Pipsico Scout Reservation offers Scouts and Scouters the opportunity to immerse themselves in a positive camping environment, at a beautiful property, with a friendly camp staff. Tidewater Council is proud to offer quality programs for everyone.
Week #1 – June 25 to July 1 – FULL
Week #2 – July 2 to July 8
Week #3 – July 9 to July 15
Week #4 – July 16 to July 22
2023 National Scout Jamboree
July 19-28
Registration Ends March 31
The National Scout Jamboree, Scouting’s flagship event, is one-of-a-kind. Over the course of ten summer days, tens of thousands of members of the Boy Scouts of America from across the country gather together to explore all kinds of adventures—stadium shows, pioneer village, adventure sports, and more—in the heart of one of nature’s greatest playgrounds. With 10,000 acres to explore at the Summit, there is no shortage of opportunities to build Scouting memories. Scouts will have an opportunity to interact with youth not only from across the country, but also from the international community of Scouts, as many countries send representatives to the Jamboree.
Tidewater Council is organizing a contingent to attend this awesome event in West Virginia. The contingent will consist of:
- Two male Scouts BSA troops (72 youth and eight adults) led by Scoutmaster Steve Bowser. The first male troop is full and Scouts are registering now for the second troop.
- One female Scouts BSA troop (36 youth and four adults) led by Scoutmaster Brandy Schlossberg. The female troop is almost full, so sign up now!
If your unit would like a presentation about the National Scout Jamboree and the adventure and activities available, contact Karen Allgaier.
Sign up today! Registration ends on March 31, 2023.
In Fond Remembrance
Joann "Westy" West
Scouters, it is with heavy hearts that we inform you that our very own Joann “Westy” West has been called home.
Westy served Scouting in many capacities over her decades-long tenure. She was a Den Mother, Den Leader, Webelos Leader, Pack Committee Chair, Cub Scout Roundtable Commissioner, and Unit Commissioner, to name a few. There is not a Cub Scout course she hasn’t taught, to include multiple Pow-Wows and Universities of Scouting. She served for many years as a Day Camp Director and Camp Assessment Team Member. Westy attended the Cub Scout Wood Badge Course (Eagle patrol) and served on Wood Badge staff. She supported numerous district recognition and Wood Badge Association events.
Westy received the District Award of Merit in 1981 and the Silver Beaver Award in 1987. In 2002, she was named a Living Legend of Tidewater Council.
She will be greatly missed.
News
NESA Outstanding Eagle Scout Awards
The National Eagle Scout Association established the Outstanding Eagle Scout Award in 2010. Popularly known by its acronym, “NOESA,” the award recognizes Eagle Scouts notable for their local, state, regional, or national distinguished service. NOESA recipients have inspired others through their positive actions reflected by recognized accomplishments and devotion to their profession, hobby, community, and beliefs.
Please join us in honoring Tidewater Council’s newest NOESA honorees at the Council Recognition Banquet on May 11:
Philip “Cutch” Armstrong is a Tidewater Council Eagle Scout and Vigil Honor member of Blue Heron Lodge.
Cutch has served Scouting in many capacities, including den leader, unit commissioner, Cubmaster, committee chair, district chair, Wood Badge course director, and council nominating committee chair. He currently volunteers as the council’s Vice President of Marketing.
Cutch’s many Scouting recognitions include Silver Beaver Award (2003), District Award of Merit (2005), Commissioner’s Key (2011), Living Legend of Tidewater Council (2019), and Second Century Society (2022).
Cutch worked in television as a marketing director, production manager, and creative director. Following his broadcasting career, he worked at Cox Media for more than 18 years in roles including Marketing Manager and Director of Marketing & Client Solutions. He brings his professional expertise to support Scouting as the creative force behind the council’s marketing efforts.
William “Bill” Campbell earned the Eagle Scout rank in Yazoo City, Mississippi. Since he arrived in Hampton Roads in the early 1970s, he has actively volunteered in many industry and civic organizations, including as a long-time Tidewater Council Executive Board member.
Bill was one of the founders of Barker, Campbell & Farley Advertising and Public Relations in Virginia Beach, the largest advertising agency in the state during his tenure. During his 30+ years of creative work, Bill received more than 200 local and national advertising awards. He received the prestigious Silver Medal Award from the American Advertising Federation in 1994.
Bill is now an artist and founding member of the Virginia Beach Art Center (now the Virginia Museum of Contemporary Art).
Eagle Scout John Scheib has served in many leadership roles in Scouting, including Pipsico Scout Reservation Camp Director, Executive Vice President, Executive Board member, assistant Scoutmaster, committee member, and merit badge counselor.
John has earned many awards for exemplary service to Scouting, including the Council Alumnus of the Year Award, Silver Beaver Award, William D. Boyce New Unit Organizer Award, Boy Scout Leader’s Training Award, and Second Century Society.
John has worked in all three branches of the Federal government, and spent the majority of his career working on the legal aspects of the transportation and railroad industries. He served in a number of senior leadership roles at Norfolk Southern, rising to the level of Chief Strategy Officer/Executive Vice President. John is a Partner at Gentry Locke, where he works on general business and commercial matters, as well as transportation matters.
National Program Updates
Barriers to Abuse
There are changes to Scouting’s Barriers to Abuse, effective September 1, 2023.
As part of the ongoing commitment to abuse prevention, the Boy Scouts of America is updating the adult supervision requirements for overnight activities. This update enhances the minimum “two deep leadership” requirements by additionally requiring every adult (18+) present on overnight activities to be a registered member of the Boy Scouts of America. These adults must submit an adult application and registration fee, undergo a criminal background check, a volunteer screening database check, and must complete mandatory Youth Protection training.
A limited exception for parents and legal guardians of Cub Scout youth attending overnight with their children is planned due to the family centric nature of Cub Scouting.
Cub Scout Unit Camping
In a recent update to the Guide to Safe Scouting, “Cub Scout pack unit coordinated camping is limited to single overnight experiences.”
As a reminder, a Basic Adult Leader Outdoor Orientation (BALOO)-trained leader must help plan and attend any Cub Scout campouts. There are two BALOO courses coming up this spring:
Lion and Tiger Adult Partners
In My.Scouting, Lion and Tiger (Adult) Partner positions no longer appear on unit rosters. Moving forward, when registering a Tiger or a Lion, the Adult Partner relationship is created after the parent/guardian information is entered and the registration has been posted. The Adult Partner information will appear in the youth profile under the relationship tab. This information also is populated in Scoutbook for unit leaders to identify the Adult Partner of a Lion or Tiger.
Scout Shop
March, the month of transition, can be a busy one for the council and at the Scout Shop. With crossovers going on, as well as district Pinewood Derby races, rest assured the Scout Shop is prepared! Need extra weights or wheels? We have them! Uniforms are well stocked for those going to a troop, we have plaques and certificates in stock for leader recognition, and plenty of handbooks.
Camping Gear
Need new camping gear? March is a great time to air out old camping equipment and see what needs to be replaced. We have our normal stock of tents, sleeping bags, backpacks, and many other items.
New Scouts
Help us help new troop customers. Most families who are new to Scouts BSA do not know which color neckerchief to purchase and often don’t know the troop number. Please let your new folks know what they need to buy and what items may be provided for them, as the Scout Shop staff does not have access to that information.
2023 Requirements Book
The 2023 Scouts BSA Requirements book is now available. For just $7.99, you may have a printed edition of all the Scout merit badges, rank requirements, and other awards conveniently at your fingertips. You don’t even need internet to use it!
New Point of Sale System
The Scout Shop is now running the new Black Pug point of sale system, and we appreciate the patience shown by all our customers. You may now use your store accounts remotely to pay for any camping, training, day camp, or other events that are on the Black Pug site. Be sure you have updated the store account with current users and their email addresses. If you need a new store account form, email the Scout Shop Manager at polly.fugate@scouting.org.
Shipping
We continue to ship orders by USPS on Wednesday and Friday mornings. When you call or email an order, we figure the cost and call back for a VISA or Mastercard number.
Scout Shop Hours
Our next holiday closing will be April 7-10 for Easter weekend.
BSA Safety Moment
It is recommended to include a BSA Safety Moment during meetings to inform Scouts and parents and keep everyone safe. Numerous downloadable BSA Safety Moments are available here.
Rocket Safety
“We’re going on a trip in our favorite rocket ship …” A lot of our Scouts know the opening of the Little Einsteins song, and many of them have probably dreamed of blasting off in a rocket. Shooting model rockets is just one of the broad range of cool activities that today’s youth can learn. The BSA has developed guidance for leaders in planning and participating in a rocket shoot.
Venturing Boards of Review
A board of review is scheduled after a Venturer completes the Discovery, Pathfinder, or Summit award requirements. The purpose is to review the quality of the candidate’s experience and, through discussions and stories about the fun, adventure, and benefits of Venturing, to decide whether the Venturer has fulfilled the requirements for the award.
Venturing Boards of Review are different than the boards conducted for rank advancement in Scouts BSA. Please ensure that all members of the Board of Review review the Guidebook prior to the Board.
Registration Beyond the Age of Eligibility
Youth with physical disabilities and youth and adults with developmental or cognitive challenges are welcome in the Boy Scouts of America. Youth members and adults who are developmentally disabled or cognitively impaired, or youth members with severe physical challenges, may be considered for registration beyond the ages of eligibility: age 11 or older for a Cub Scout, 18 or older for a Scouts BSA member, or 21 or older as a Venturer or Sea Scout.
A disability, to qualify an individual for registration beyond the age of eligibility, must be permanent and so severe that it precludes advancement even at a rate significantly slower than considered typical. If ranks can be achieved under accommodations already provided in official BSA literature, then the disability probably does not rise to the level required to apply for this request. Additional information can be found in section 10 of the Guide to Advancement.
It is not necessary to wait until a Scout is nearing the end of age eligibility to apply. Please apply early to avoid any complications and delays.
Why Become a Commissioner?
Scouters who have completed a tour as a Cubmaster, Scoutmaster, or any other adult leadership role and want to continue to serve Scouting in a different capacity should consider becoming a unit commissioner. Unit commissioners normally support three units and draw on their experiences to help new leaders provide unit Scouting programs. Unit commissioners are the “behind-the-scenes” support that ALL units need.
Commissioners are district and council leaders who help Scout units succeed. They coach and consult with adult leaders of Cub Scout packs, Scouts BSA troops, and Venturing crews, and help maintain the standards of the Boy Scouts of America.
More information about commissioners and specialized training will be offered during University of Scouting on March 11.
Camp Cards
Want an easy NO-RISK fundraiser that offers 50% profit? Do you have Scouts who haven’t raised enough to attend day camp or summer camp? Does your unit have new members? Then the Camp Card fundraiser is for your unit!
New for 2023: Prizes
A new tiered prize incentive program features:
- An exclusive Camp Card patch
- Cinema Café movie ticket
- $25 Amazon gift card
- Entries for a drawing to win an Oculus
The number of cards a Scout sells determines what prize they earn. It’s a great way to invigorate Scouts to sell while earning money for camp.
How to Participate
Contact the district executive to register and pick-up cards. Cards are usually delivered at district Roundtables, but district executives will make arrangements for units that cannot attend Roundtable.
Training and resources are available online at TidewaterBSA.com/2023campcardsale. Review these resources for deadlines and important information.
And then – simply sell. This is a super easy fundraiser that scores Scouts some serious bucks toward camp.
Special National Scout Jamboree Offer
Tidewater Council is offering a special incentive for Scouts who are attending the 2023 National Scout Jamboree. If any Scouts in your unit are headed to that great adventure, contact Rich Becker at richard.becker@scouting.org or 757-575-6609 for more details.
Camp Card Vendors
Camp Cards include valuable discounts to local retailers and 25 Bonus Savings per card that are available for your choice of retailers nationwide.
- 3 Amigos
- The Adventure Park
- Edenton Coffee House
- H2OBX
- Harris Teeter
- Hungry Panda
- iFly Virginia Beach
- Itza Boutza Pizza
- Latitude Climbing + Fitness
- LJ Beaners
- Pass the Salt Café
- Philly Pretzel Factory
- Tractor Supply Co.
- Wendy’s
- PLUS Bonus Savings!
- The Adventure Park
- Big Apple Pizza
- Harris Teeter
- iFly Virginia Beach
- Latitude Climbing + Fitness
- Nothing Bundt Cakes
- Philly Pretzel Factory
- Tractor Supply Co.
- Wendy’s
- PLUS Bonus Savings!
Contact
For questions, please contact the district’s Camp Cards Chair:
Albemarle: Julie Roasa at rjnkroasa@centurylink.net
Bayside: Cory Van Kirk at eelyroc@yahoo.com
Princess Anne: Jen Conway at jflores87@gmail.com
Three Rivers: Liz Schwegel at lizschwegel@icloud.com
Camp cards are in limited supply, so don’t miss out!
Community Engagement
Beakitecture Birdhouse Project
Norfolk Botanical Garden is looking for fun, original, whimsical, and one-of a kind-birdhouses for a Beakitecture community during the summer of 2023. From the tiniest house to larger-than-life human-sized birdhouses, the Enchanted Forest at Norfolk Botanical Garden will be home to these community-based creations.
If you are interested in building a one-of-a-kind birdhouse as a pack, den, patrol, or individual, please contact birdhouse@nbgs.org or 757-441-5830 ext. 319. There is no fee to participate, but participants are responsible for any expenditures incurred in construction and transportation. Review the Application Packet to learn more about how birdhouses will be selected and how to submit your design. All entry forms should be received by March 17, 2023.
Tents for Pipsico Scout Reservation
To continue to provide a quality camping experience for our Scouts, Tidewater Council plans to replace tents at Pipsico Scout Reservation. The cost to replace one tent and its platform is $1,250. You can make a difference for local Scouts by sponsoring a tent at Pipsico!
Community Care Assistance
Does your family need assistance accessing community resources? Tidewater Council is a partner agency with United Way of South Hampton Roads and Albemarle Area United Way, as well as a member of the Unite Us Hampton Roads United Coordinated Network and NCCARE360. For coordinated care referrals, please contact us.
Help Wanted
District Executive Job Opening
Since 1910, Scouting has helped mold the future leaders of this country by combining educational activities and lifelong values with fun. The Boy Scouts of America believes and understands that helping youth puts us on a path towards a more conscientious, responsible, and productive society.
Today’s professional Scouters are a diverse group of men and women sharing a dynamic career offering independence, achievement, and stability. This is work that makes a difference, work that calls one to continual learning and challenge, work that offers solid compensation, benefits, and advancement.
If you or someone you know is interested in making a difference through a career in Scouting, please contact Bill Lawrence at bill.lawrence2@scouting.org.
Special Needs and Disabilities Committee
Tidewater Council has formed a Council Special Needs and Disabilities Committee. This committee will focus on:
- Membership and Unit Growth: Supporting units to serve Scouts with special needs and membership growth through recruitment
- Program Support: Finding and supplying training and resources for units and districts
- Advancement Support: Helping navigate the advancement adaptations and modifications available to Scouts with special needs
If interested in assisting the Special Needs and Disabilities Committee, or for questions, please contact:
James Bennett
571-331-6435
knightspast@gmail.com
National Scout Jamboree Band
The 2023 National Scout Jamboree (NSJ) Band is now forming and is looking for musicians. The staff (Service Team) band is made up registered Scouts and Scouters.
The NSJ Band will supply music for ceremonies, events, concerts, and shows, and will entertain the many thousands of Jamboree Scouts and visitors.
Repertoire includes popular and patriotic music, marches, and pep band tunes. Adults may apply, but initial preference will go to youth staff. All instruments are needed, including drumline.
For information about the band and how to apply, please visit jamboreeband.colbsa.net or email the director, George Pinchock, at pinchock@aol.com.
Additional Volunteer Opportunities
Visit our Volunteer with Local Scouting webpage for information on additional volunteer opportunities.
Scouts in Action
Thank you to all the Scouts, families, volunteers, and community members who participated in the 2023 Scouting for Food Drive!
It’s because of you that 626 volunteers came together from 39 units to donate more than 16,950 pounds of much-needed items to food banks in our communities. These donations will create 14,119 meals for families throughout the council. Great job!
A living shoreline project is coming soon to Pipsico Scout Reservation!
We are excited and grateful to be beneficiaries of this project to restore erosion along the shoreline and improve water quality in the James River. Thank you to our partners at the Virginia Department of Transportation and the James River Water Quality Improvement Program (JRWQIP).
We want to hear from you! Send stories, photos, and videos of your Scouts in action to alison.harrison@scouting.org (with parental permission, of course).
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