“EK” Electronic Knapsack – June 1, 2023

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.

Our 2023 Friends of Scouting campaign has raised $466,518 for local Scouting, 101.4% of our $460,000 goal!

Thank you!

Thank you to the team that has led the council to achieve the 2023 Friends of Scouting goal and that is continuing to raise support for local Scouting!

  • Charlie Mallon, Council Friends of Scouting Chair
  • Bob Bogdanowicz, Council Family Campaign Chair
  • Steve Smith, Albemarle District Campaign Chair
  • Steve Winter, Bayside District Campaign Chair
  • Nancy Sumrell, Princess Anne District Campaign Chair
  • Tim Briggs, Three Rivers District Campaign Chair
  • April Ownley, Albemarle Family Campaign Chair
  • Chutima Boonthum-Denecke, Bayside Family Campaign Chair
  • Michael Longworth, Princess Anne District Family Campaign Chair
  • Paul Johnson, Three Rivers Family Campaign Chair
Campaign Progress as of May 31, 2023
Council Goal: $460,000
101.4%

Each district shares a portion of the overall goal:

Albemarle District Goal: $40,000
105.7%
Bayside District Goal: $158,000
100.2%
Princess Anne District Goal: $160,000
95.0%
Three Rivers District Goal: $102,000
109.9%

While we have achieved the 2023 Friends of Scouting goal, our team is continuing to hold family presentations and reach out to community donors.

Join the community of supporters by submitting a pledge card to william.sherman@scouting.org or donating online.

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

Range Master Training

June 10 & June 17

Trained Range Masters ensure that shooting sports activities for Cub Scouts are operated safely. This position is required for any Cub Scout shooting sports activity, including (but not limited to) archery, BBs, water bottle rocket launches, and any other devices that propel items into the air. Remember that BBs and archery may only be used at council or district events.

Range Master Qualifications
  • Registered leader with the Boy Scouts of America
  • 18+ years of age
  • Currently certified in Range Master training. Training certification is valid for two years.
Upcoming Trainings
  • Saturday, June 10, 2023 at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, 4784 Princess Anne Road, Virginia Beach, VA 23464
  • Saturday, June 17, 2023 at Tabernacle Baptist Academy, 717 Whitehurst Landing Road, Virginia Beach, VA 23464

Scout Night with the Norfolk Tides

June 16

Join us for Scout Night with the Norfolk Tides: Friday, June 16, 2023. Cheer on the Tides as they take on the Worcester Red Sox at Harbor Park!

Ticket vouchers and camping vouchers are now available at the Tidewater Council Scout ShopThe deadline to purchase vouchers is Wednesday, June 14, 2023 (or until sold out). 

Get to the ballpark early – DJ CanRock will be spinning the tunes from 5:30-6:30 PM.

After the game, Scouts and their families have the opportunity to sleep under the stars in the outfield and catch a movie on the big screen.

Ticket vouchers must be exchanged for seat tickets at the Harbor Park Ticket Office. Vouchers can be exchanged in advance or the night of the game. Groups are strongly encouraged to exchange vouchers in advance to ensure everyone sits together.

Guests must adhere to all Harbor Park policies, including the Fan Code of Conduct and the new Clear Bag Policy.

Beaver Day

June 17

OA Summer Camp Workday, also referred to as Beaver Day, is a chance for everyone (not just OA members) to help get Pipsico ready for summer camp. Help make camping areas and structures useful to everyone for years to come.

On Saturday, June 17, work will begin at 9 AM and end around 4 PM. There will be projects for everyone, skilled and unskilled alike. Whether you are a master carpenter, an amateur gardener, or a lawyer, everyone can be a “Busy Beaver” on a project of their choice. Some of the projects include:

  • Setting up tents and cots
  • Moving boats to waterfront and by the pool for cleaning
  • Moving canoes to the waterfront
  • Preparing staff cabins
  • A list of projects will be available for troops looking for service hours and/or conservation hours.
  • Volunteers with specialized skills not mentioned above, please contact Mike Maruska to coordinate a project.

As a thank you to volunteers, camping will be available at no cost on Friday and/or Saturday. Lunch will be provided for all who sign up.

To sign up for this AWESOME event and help kick off a great summer for the Scouts, please visit scoutingevent.com/596-workday23.

For questions, contact Council Maintenance Chairman Mike Maruska at 757-641-2373 or mikemaruska1179@gmail.com.

Rick Anoia Scouting Golf Classic

June 22

Are you looking for a fun day on the golf course AND to support a good cause? Join us for the Rick Anoia Scouting Golf Classic at Virginia Beach National Golf Club!

If you are interested in volunteering at the event, please contact Christy Cooper at christy.cooper@scouting.org.

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 – FULL
Week #4 – July 16 to July 22

Popcorn Training

July 12 & July 17

Join us to learn about the 2023 Tidewater Council Popcorn Sale!

There are two training dates available, and both trainings will be offered both in-person and virtually. The same information will be covered at each session, so pick the date that is best for you!

  • Wednesday, July 12 at 6:30 PM
  • Monday, July 17 at 6:30 PM

This popcorn training is designed for both new and returning popcorn kernels. We will focus on what is new for this year’s sale, best practices, and opportunities that can benefit your unit.

This training will be offered both in-person at the Mary Jayne Breeden Council Service Center and virtually. For questions, contact Pam Samples at popcorn@tidewaterbsa.com.

Baseball mitt

Scout Night with the Edenton Steamers

July 15

Join us at Historic Hicks Field in Edenton, NC on July 15 to cheer on the Steamers as they take on Catawba Valley!

Admission packages include a ticket, patch, and picnic meal consisting of a hamburger, hot dog, chips, and drink for $15.

There is also an opportunity to sleep on the field following the game – camping vouchers are available for an additional $5 each.

For questions, please contact Brian Chappell at bchappell14@gmail.com.

Scouting for Blood Drive

August 2

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, August 2, 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

In Fond Remembrance

David Gray

F. David Gray was an Eagle Scout, Vigil member of the Order of the Arrow, Silver Beaver, James E. West fellow, and a District Award of Merit recipient.

He supported Scouting for many years, including roles as a district committee member, Scoutmaster, committee chair, merit badge counselor, committee member, assistant Cubmaster, and Webelos leader. David served the whole family of units chartered by the LDS Oceana Ward, Virginia Beach Stake: Pack 441, Troop 441, Team 441, and Crew 441.

David was a long-serving, selfless, and compassionate Scouter. He will be greatly missed.

News

Scout Shop

Summertime and fun-filled adventures go together! As exciting as summer can be with all the Scouting activities, there are some challenges that we can meet at the Scout Shop.

Going Hiking?

We have your back, literally, with a good supply of backpacks and daypacks to meet each need. Our Mountaineer backpacks come in 40 Liter ($99.99) and 60 Liter ($119.99) with the features needed for comfort and protection:

  • Heavy duty breathable mesh on full length of frame
  • Shoulder straps heavily padded and adjustable to fit short and tall body frames
  • Adjustable padded waist belt and chest strap
  • Full-size rain cover in bottom pocket
  • Compression straps for securing gear
  • Elastic cargo straps
  • Many accessory loops for clipping on extras
  • Hydration bladder pocket with water hose hole built in and hose clip on shoulder strap.

We also have daypacks for $49.99 and Sport Hydration packs for $34.99, all with great comfort and carrying features. Come in and check out our selection for YOUR best fit.

Camping gear, backpacks, sleeping bags, and pillows
Tents

Tents are a must for overnight camping, and we have the “Be Outdoors” Sport Dome 7’ x 7’ x 48” for $69.99. These tents have waterproof flooring, factory-coated rain fly and seams, two interior storage pockets, side mesh panels and two windows for good circulation, plus shock corded fiberglass poles for quick connects. These are good quality tents that can sleep up to three for an unbeatable price.

Sleeping Bags

Sweet dreams with one of our sleeping bags. The Deluxe Mummy sleeping bags (20 degrees) sell for $59.99, while the Coleman Big & Tall Men adjustable comfort bags (30-70 degrees) are $69.99. Don’t forget a camping pillow (17” x 12”) for $12.99

Camping Essentials

We have many other camping items as well as uniforms, socks, and “Class B” T-shirts. Let the Scout Shop be your one-stop-shop for ALL your camping needs. While you can order online from the National site at scoutshop.org, we are always willing to ship directly from our store to you by USPS. Just call us (757-497-2688) or email polly.fugate@scouting.org.

Please note: The items pictured and mentioned above are available ONLY through the Tidewater Council Scout Shop.

Red mug with Eagle Scout logo
New Eagle Mug

The new Orca Chaser 27 for Eagle Scouts is a 27 oz. stainless steel bottle in bright red with the Eagle rank insignia. The double-walled vacuum seal keeps things hot or cold for hours, it has a clear spill-proof lid, is dishwasher safe, and sells for $39.99. This will make a wonderful gift for any Eagle Scout.

Scout Shop Hours

Our next holiday closing will be July 1-7. We will reopen on Saturday, July 8. Have a safe and happy 4th of July!

2023 National Scout Jamboree Tidewater Council contingent patch set
2023 National Scout Jamboree OA Flap patches

National Scout Jamboree Patches

On behalf of Tidewater Council and Blue Heron Lodge, there is a unique opportunity for the public to purchase National Jamboree contingent patches. Purchases of these collectible sets will help provide scholarships, tents, gear, and travel expenses for Scouts and leaders attending the 2023 Jamboree.

Tidewater Council Jamboree Shoulder Patches (JSP) celebrate the bountiful tidings of the Chesapeake Bay, Albemarle Sound, and Pamlico Sound. The patches highlight the state saltwater fish of North Carolina (the red drum) the state saltwater fish of Virginia (the striped bass), and the blue crabs of Tidewater’s waters. The staff JSP shows the Jefferson scallop, which can be found on the shores of Pipsico Scout Reservation along the James River.

Order the patch sets online at councilstuff.com/596-2023Jambo

There are two bundles available:

  1. All four Jamboree Shoulder Patches and the center patch for $35 per set
  2. All four Jamboree Shoulder Patches and the center patch, PLUS two OA flaps for $50 per set

Patch orders will be available for pick-up in the Tidewater Council Scout Shop in late June or early July. To request that patch sets be shipped, please change the delivery method from “Pickup at Council Service Center” to “Ship to My Address” at checkout.

Purchasers will be contacted by email when their order is ready for pick-up.     

Quantities are limited – order today!

BSA SAFE Logo

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.

Transportation

Getting to and from Scouting events is a risk for all participants and can lead to severe and even fatal accidents that impact the Scouting family. Please use the framework below in addition to the SAFE Transportation Checklist and Pre-Trip Inspection for all transportation to and from Scouting activities.

The Scouter Code of Conduct includes: When transporting Scouts, I will obey all laws, comply with Youth Protection guidelines, and follow safe driving practices.

General guidelines include (but are not limited to):

  1. It is essential to have safe and responsible transportation for all Scouting activities.
  2. Drivers are expected to follow all applicable traffic laws and not drive if impaired or distracted—for example texting, while driving.
  3. All drivers must have a valid driver’s license that has not been suspended or revoked, including a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) when required.
  4. Youth drivers are prohibited. Must be 18 years of age or older.
  5. Must meet Scouting’s Barriers to Abuse Supervision requirements, including two-deep leadership and no one-on-one during transportation.
  6. Driving time is limited to a maximum of 10 hours in one 24-hour period, regardless of drivers available. Frequent breaks are required, including rest, food, and recreation. Do not drive when distracted or drowsy.
  7. The use of private aviation for transportation is prohibited.
  8. All occupants must wear factory-installed seatbelts. This includes the use of appropriate car seats for youth.

Camp Cards

The end of the Camp Card sale is quickly approaching! Unit payments and unsold Camp Cards are due back to the council no later than June 15, 2023. Make plans now to meet with the district Camp Cards Chair or district executive to complete the unit turn in by the due date. Payment can be made by cash or check made payable to Tidewater Council, BSA.

Remember that the unit must return all unsold cards and payment by June 15, 2023 for Scouts to receive their incentive items. The drawing for the Oculus will occur on June 16, 2023.

Contact

For questions, please contact the district’s Camp Cards Chair:

Popcorn 101

More than two dozen Scouters participated in Popcorn 101 training on May 30. Thank you to Tony Montemurno, Krista Dunn, Matt Conway, and Pam Samples for orchestrating this opportunity for new Unit Popcorn Kernels!

A recording of this training and additional popcorn sale resources are available at TidewaterBSA.com/2023popcornsale/.

Scholarships for Scouts

Did you know that participating in certain Scouting programs or earning certain Scouting ranks can help youth earn scholarships? Some, but not all, of these scholarships are educational. There also are scholarships to attend high adventure bases, or even to become a diving instructor.

Find available Scouting-related scholarship opportunities at scouting.org/awards/scholarships.

Service Projects

Scouting was founded on the premise of doing a Good Turn daily. Community service is an important part of the character-building process.

Why Report Service Hours?
  • Districts, Tidewater Council, and the National Council report on Scouts’ service hours. That helps donors and funders see Scouting’s community impact, which, in turn, helps raise funds for Scouting and lowers costs for Scouting families.
  • Units must report their service hours to qualify for the service achievements of Journey to Excellence.
  • Tracking service helps units keep track of advancement requirements met and community impact, as well as plan future service projects.
Planning Service Projects
  • Units are encouraged to conduct service projects to benefit their chartered organization, meeting location, and/or the schools they serve, as well as the community in general.
  • Projects can be completed by dens, patrols, or the entire unit.
  • More tips for success and project ideas can be found at scouting.org/awards/journey-to-excellence/unit-tips.
How to Report Service Hours

Units should log service hours via Scoutbook. Click on “Activity Logs” (under either the individual or ‘Quick Entry’). Service hours also can be logged directly through Internet Advancement 2.0.

While some units wait until the end of the year to enter service hours, it is recommended to log information as soon as the project is completed, while the memory is fresh. This form helps with preparation for data entry.

Awards Spotlight

Religious Emblems Programs

A Scout is Reverent. The Boy Scouts of America has approved religious emblems programs developed and administered by different religious groups, and allows those recognitions to be worn on the official Scout uniform.

The Scout Shop carries workbooks for several ages and denominations. Resources, including videos and information on how to get started, are available here.

Eagle Scout Service Project of the Year Award

The National Eagle Scout Association (NESA) established the Glenn A. and Melinda W. Adams National Eagle Scout Service Project of the Year Award (ESSPY) to recognize valuable service of an exceptional nature by an Eagle Scout candidate to a religious institution, school, community or other entity through completion of an Eagle Scout project.

Selection of recipients begins at the local level. The council NESA committee selects a council recipient from among submitted nominations. Council recipients are considered for National Service Territory-level awards, and Territory recipients are considered for National awards. Territory and National recipients receive scholarships.

An Eagle Scout, their parents, or any registered BSA volunteer (with the Eagle Scout’s permission) may nominate an Eagle Scout service project for consideration. Eligibility is based on the year the Eagle Scout passed their Eagle Board of Review (between January 1 – December 31). Nominations are due to the NESA committee of the council in which the service project was completed on or before January 31 each year. For example, an Eagle Scout who completed their Eagle Board of Review in 2023 must submit their nomination by January 31, 2024.

Learn about Tidewater Council’s most recent Adams Award recipient, Simone N., here.

NESA Outstanding Eagle Scout Award

The National Eagle Scout Association established the Outstanding Eagle Scout Award during the Boy Scouts of America’s 100th  Anniversary celebration in 2010. Popularly known by its acronym, “NOESA,” this 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 community, profession, avocation, and beliefs. Previous recipients include authors, explorers, scientists, physicians, military officers, judges, attorneys, government officials, community leaders, media personalities, entrepreneurs, and prominent businesspeople. Each recipient’s record of service and accomplishments elevates the public stature and reputation of Eagle Scouts.

NOESA recipients typically are selected in December. The nomination deadline will be posted in the Electronic Knapsack this fall.

Learn more about Tidewater Council’s three most recent NOESA recipients:

Keep America Beautiful patch image
Keep America Beautiful Hometown USA Award

The Boy Scouts of America has been affiliated with Keep America Beautiful for more than 50 years. The Keep America Beautiful Hometown USA Award recognizes outstanding efforts of Scouts in their communities in regard to citizenship and environmental improvement. This award for Scouts BSA youth provides a way for Scouts to make a significant contribution toward keeping America beautiful.

When a Scout has completed the award requirements, the unit leader should turn in the application to the Scout Shop and order the patch there.

Development Corner: Matching Gifts

What are matching gift programs?

An extension of corporate philanthropy, matching gift programs are designed to be the means by which companies support employee charitable giving. Companies match donations made by employees to a wide range of non-profits. Approximately 2/3 of companies with matching gift programs match employee donations to nearly any 501(c)(3) organization or educational institution.

Why are matching gifts important?

Matching gifts are a way for donors to multiply their donations at no cost to themselves. This money is often overlooked, due to gaps in knowledge and communication of specific corporate giving programs.

Ratios and Amounts

Companies apply minimums and maximums to their matching gift programs. Minimum matches typically range from $25-$100 and maximums typically range from $1,000-$15,000. Most companies with a matching gifts program match donations at a 1:1 ratio, although ratios can be set at any amount the company determines.

Submission Process

The entire matching gift process typically can be completed by a donor in less than five minutes.

Follow these four easy steps:

  1. Donation occurs: Donor donates to Tidewater Council, Boy Scouts of America.
  2. Match eligibility: Donor determines if their employer matches their donations.
  3. Forms submitted: Donor submits matching gift request to their employer.
  4. Funds dispersed: Tidewater Council verifies that the donation was made and the employer issues its matching gift.

Please check with your Human Resources Manager to find out how you can increase your donation to Tidewater Council, Boy Scouts of America. For additional information, contact Christy Cooper at christy.cooper@scouting.org.

Philmont Training Center

Philmont Training Center (PTC) in New Mexico offers something for those who want to:

  • Connect with BSA alumni
  • Learn from other BSA commissioners
  • Be a better Cub Scout leader
  • Bring the whole family
  • And more!

PTC has courses for a wide range of interests. And while participants are in class, their families can enjoy a variety of Philmont activities led by trained staff. There are more than 35 PTC classes that still have openings for summer 2023. Availability can change quickly — check PTC’s registration page for up-to-the-minute options.

Community Engagement

2023 Virginia Governor's Awards on Volunteerism and Community Service

The nomination period is open for the 2023 Virginia Governor’s Awards on Volunteerism and Community Service, now through Monday, June 19, 2023 at 5 PM. The awards recognize Virginia individuals and organizations for their volunteer contributions to the Commonwealth.

Individual categories include:

  • Youth (aged 18 and under)
  • Young Adult (aged 19-30)
  • Adult (aged 31-59)
  • Senior (aged 60+)

Learn more or nominate a worthy volunteer at virginiaservice.virginia.gov.

Clean the Bay Day: June 3

Thousands of volunteers participate in Clean the Bay Day annually. The Chesapeake Bay Foundation coordinates this united effort to remove harmful litter and debris from the Chesapeake Bay watershed.

The 2023 event will take place on Saturday, June 3. Registration has closed, but walk-up locations are posted at cbf.org. For questions, contact ctbd@cbf.org.

Free Fishing Day at Lake Trashmore: June 3

The Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources (DWR) is hosting a free fishing day at Lake Trashmore from 9 AM – 1 PM on Saturday, June 3. DWR personnel will be present with gear, tackle, and bait. This event is great for beginners, as DWR will provide instruction on how to fish. There is no charge to participate, and registration and fishing licenses are not required. Learn more at dwr.virginia.gov/fishing/free-fishing-days.

Wreaths Across America Mobile Education Exhibit: July 6

The Daughters of the American Revolution, Adam Thoroughgood Chapter, is sponsoring a stop of the Wreaths Across America Mobile Education Exhibit National Tour in Norfolk on July 6.

The event, which is free and open to the public, will take place at Nauticus (1 Waterside Drive) from 10 AM – 4 PM. There will be a special “Welcome Home” Vietnam Veterans Ceremony at 11 AM.

The goal of the Wreaths Across America Mobile Education Exhibit is to bring communities together and teach patriotism while remembering the service and sacrifice of our nation’s heroes. The mobile exhibit includes interactive exhibits, short films, and shared stories.

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.

VBthrive

Virginia Beach residents, VBthrive is an economic mobility program offering coaching and resources for mentoring, housing, employment and education, financial management, and wellbeing.

Help Wanted

Seasonal Employment Opportunity: Archery Instructor

Spend your summer in the great outdoors! Come join the awesome staff at Pipsico Scout Reservation this summer.

The Archery Instructor position starts June 17 and ends July 22. Salary, room, and board are provided. Lodging will be in a cabinette, not a tent!

Apply online at pipsicobsa.com.

Become a mentor to youth and help build their self-esteem and social skills while promoting their independence.

Prerequisites
  • Must be at least 18 years of age.
  • Knowledge of archery is preferred, but not required. Archery skills training is available.
  • Must agree to follow the Scouter Code of Conduct.
  • Membership in the Boy Scouts of America is not required to apply.
district executive patch

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.

Additional Volunteer Opportunities

Visit our Volunteer with Local Scouting webpage for information on additional volunteer opportunities.

Scouts in Action

Scout Executive James Parnell with Officer A. White
Scout Executive James Parnell with Officer A. White

Officer A. White of the Chesapeake Police Department was recently honored as the Chesapeake Rotary Club’s 2023 Police Officer of the Year, as well as Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) Post #2894’s Police Officer of the Year.

Officer White was a Virginia Beach Police Explorer from 2014-2016.

On November 22, multiple units responded to an active shooter at the Greenbrier-area Walmart. Officer White was the first officer on the scene. He immediately began rendering life-saving measures for victims, and directed other officers where assistance was needed most as they arrived.

Chesapeake Rotary Club aptly recognized Officer White’s “courage, professionalism, and dedication to service under extreme conditions.”

Congratulations Officer White! We are proud of your service to the community!

Example campsite with tents

Thank you to the units, leaders, and Scouts that assisted with the recruiting event at the Albemarle 4H Livestock Arena on May 6! More than 100 attendees enjoyed shooting sports, Dutch oven cooking, a raingutter regatta, educational displays, and many more activities.

Scouts BSA display with canopy and trailer
Animal exhibit
Inflatable obstacle course

Scouts in Albemarle district are enjoying the spring weather! Pack 116 and Pack 150 went family camping, while Pack 164 practiced flag etiquette. Good job keeping the outing in Scouting!

Cub Scouts hiking
Pack 116
Group photo of Cub Scouts outdoors
Pack 150
Cub Scouts saluting American flag
Pack 164

Thanks to all who donated blood at the Scouting for Blood Drive on May 17. Due to your support, the blood drive resulted in 17 pints of blood, saving 51 lives!

Registration is now available for the next blood drive on August 2.

More than 250 Scouts and Scouters gathered at Pipsico Scout Reservation on May 12-14 for Guns ‘n’ Grillin’. Participants enjoyed a variety of marksmanship activities and held an Order of the Arrow Call-Out Ceremony.

Scout using a bow and arrow
Local Leaders in the News

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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