Table of Contents
Friends of Scouting
Friends of Scouting is Tidewater Council’s annual giving campaign. The Friends of Scouting campaign provides 20% of the council’s annual budget – that means 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. Tidewater Council’s goal is to raise $515,000 through Friends of Scouting in 2025.
Campaign Progress as of April 1, 2025
Each district shares a portion of the overall goal:
Upcoming Events
Three Rivers Spring Camporee
April 4-6
IN A SHORT, SHORT TIME FROM NOW
AT A CAMPSITE NOT TOO FAR AWAY
SCOUTS WILL BE COMPETING AND HAVING FUN…
Three Rivers District will hold its Spring Camporee at Camp Kiwanis at Pipsico Scout Reservation. Scouts will enjoy a variety of themed games and competitions as they compete for the Traveling District Trophy!
Introduction to Outdoor Leader Skills
April 5-6
Introduction to Outdoor Leader Skills (IOLS) provides leaders with basic outdoors skills needed to conduct the Scouts BSA camping program. Working in patrols, this hands-on course provides adult leaders the outdoors skills they need to lead Scouts in the out of doors.
Who?
IOLS is for all adults camping with units. This training is required to be a trained Scoutmaster and Assistant Scoutmaster.
Course Details
IOLS will be held during the Three Rivers District Spring Camporee.
Contact
For questions, contact Charlie Tate at cetate981@gmail.com.
Council Pinewood Derby®
April 6
Race on over to the Council Pinewood Derby on April 6 at Apex Entertainment in Virginia Beach!
The Council Pinewood Derby will held the same day as Family Fun Day at Apex, so racers and fans can double their fun!
Who?
The top three finishers of each rank from each District Pinewood Derby are eligible to race. Arrows of Light (AOL) who have just bridged to a troop are still eligible.
The District Pinewood Derby leadership teams will submit the names of eligible racers for the Council Pinewood Derby; there will not be a separate online registration.
Race Details
Racers will check in at 12:00 PM in the Apex Entertainment Chesapeake Room, on the second floor. Racing will begin at 1:30 PM.
The Council Pinewood Derby will utilize the official Tidewater Council Pinewood Derby Rules & Procedures.
Family Fun Day at Apex
April 6
Come have a fun day with your family at Apex Entertainment. Play games, drive cars, and putt around for a good cause. Proceeds support Scouting in our community.
Register online before the deadline or pay at the door on the day of the event.
$20 per person includes:
- One (1) round of Bumper Cars
- One (1) round of Mini Golf
- One (1) 60-Minute Non-Redemption Arcade Card
- Free bowling shoe rentals with the purchase of a bowling lane
$5 of each $20 ticket purchased will be donated back to Scouting!
Registration is now open on Black Pug.
Basic Adult Leader Outdoor Orientation (BALOO)
April 11-12
For a den or an entire Cub Scout pack to have an outdoor activity or go camping, the group must have a leader complete the Basic Adult Leader Outdoor Orientation (BALOO) training course. BALOO training is made up of two parts: an online course available on My.Scouting.org, and an in-person, hands-on course.
Who?
All Cub Scout leaders.
Contact
For questions, contact Andrew Huddle at startscouting@gmail.com.
Order of the Arrow Eastern Region Section 9 Conclave
April 25-27
Once each year, the seven Order of the Arrow lodges in the region (“Section E9”) gather at a Scout camp for a fun-filled weekend called Conclave.
The 2025 E9 Conclave will be held the weekend of April 25-27 at Camp Rock Enon in Gore, VA and is expected to be attended by nearly 800 Arrowmen.
To learn more, visit oae9.org/conclave.
Council Recognition Banquet
April 30
Registration is now open for the Council Recognition Banquet! Enjoy a fabulous meal cooked by the outstanding Blue Heron Lodge Cook Crew and be a part of the excitement as we come together to celebrate a great Scouting year in 2024.
Some of the highlights of the evening will be:
- Keynote Speaker and 2024 Eagle Honoree
- Jon McGlothian
- 2024 Class of Eagle Scouts
- NESA Outstanding Eagle Scout Awards
- Dr. Donald Bowling
- Tom Callahan
- Jack Ross
- 2024 Silver Beaver Awards
- James Carroll
- Ron Misfeldt
- Kate Sklat
- Living Legends of Tidewater Council
- Glenn A. and Melinda W. Adams National Eagle Scout Service Project of the Year Award
- Joshua M., Troop 504
- And more!
Want to give a gift to a new Eagle Scout? Consider sponsoring them for this event. Don’t miss out!
Scouts Read Sacred Texts Worldwide
May 1
All Scouts, all youth-serving organizations, all faith youth groups, and their families are invited to participate in the National Day of Prayer on May 1, 2025 by reading a portion of their own sacred text.
During the inaugural Scouts Read Sacred Texts Worldwide in May 2024, 3,673 Scouts from 177 councils read from their sacred texts for 855 hours.
A commemorative patch will be available for purchase, and participation may help Scouts complete their rank-specific Duty to God advancement requirements.
2025 Wood Badge
May 2-4 and May 31-June 1
Wood Badge is the premier, global training for Scout leaders. It’s a course for enhancing leadership skills, for learning about team development, for networking, for personal growth and development, all rolled into two fun-filled weekends of camping and Scouting.
Whether you’re completely new to Scouting or you’ve been a member for decades, Wood Badge is for you.
Join us at awesome Pipsico Scout Reservation, where we will walk through the journey of a Scout, from Cub Scouting to Scouts BSA and Venturing. Explore ways you can enhance the Scouting program for today’s youth and beyond.
Learn more about the course through the Wood Badge Pre-Course Orientation available on My.Scouting. For questions, reach out to 2025twcwoodbadge@gmail.com.
We can’t wait to see you there!
Guns 'n' Grillin'
May 9-11
Guns ‘n’ Grillin’ is an awesome outdoor adventure providing numerous shooting sports activities at a great time of the year to be camping outdoors!
Program
- The Tidewater Council Shooting Sports and Camping Committees plan to offer target archery, rifle shooting, BBs, slingshots, and tomahawk throwing, as in past years, but there’s even more in store for the 2025 event.
- New for this year: Our team plans to offer action archery, sporting arrows, climbing, fishing, and muzzleloader shooting.
- Units or individuals who wish may purchase tickets to shoot shotguns. Shotgun tickets are $4/5 shots; tickets are non-refundable.
- Saturday lunch will be made on the grill and is the only meal provided.
- Participants are invited to camp from Friday through Sunday, or any portion in between.
Details
The event will be held at Pipsico Scout Reservation and is open to Scouts BSA troops, Sea Scouting ships, and Venturing crews. Note: Cub Scouts can register for Tidewater Council’s Cub Scout Family Camps or Day Camps to participate in Cub Scout-approved range and target activities.
Register by April 27 to get the best price: $36 per youth and $16 per adult. Registration is now open on Black Pug. The price includes program activities, camping, cheeseburger lunch on Saturday, and a participation patch for the first 150 youth registered.
Join the Guns 'n' Grillin' Staff
Contact the Guns ‘n’ Grillin’ leadership team for information on volunteer opportunities for both adults and older youth.
Event Chair: Adam Harlan, shootingsports@pipsicobsa.com
Staff Advisor: James Parnell, James.Parnell@scouting.org
Vice President of Camping: Wes Parker, wparker@pipsicobsa.com
Range and Target Activity Trainings
May - November
Interested in become a certified firearms or archery instructor? Tidewater Council’s Shooting Sports Committee can help Scout leaders fulfill these ambitions and become qualified to lead range and target activity programs for their units.
In 2025, Tidewater Council is offering training for multiple types of firearms. Not only that, but the council will also offer its first USA Archery Level 1 Instructor course. Tidewater Council’s Shooting Sports Committee offers leaders opportunities to obtain instructor credentials at a fraction of the cost available elsewhere.
Class sizes are limited – sign up today!
Course Schedule
- NRA Range Safety Officer Course: May 10
- NRA Basic Pistol Course: August 9
- NRA Pistol Instructor Course: September 6
- NRA Range Safety Officer Course: September 27
- NRA Basic Rifle Course: October 4
- NRA Rifle Instructor Course: November 1
Visit the Black Pug registration page for course details, pricing, and more information. For questions, please contact the Shooting Sports Committtee at shootingsports@pipsicobsa.com.
Scouting for Blood Drive
May 14
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 14, 2025
WHERE:
Tidewater Council
Mary Jayne Breeden Council Service Center
1032 Heatherwood Drive
Virginia Beach, VA 23455
TIME:
2-6 PM
MAKE AN APPOINTMENT:
There are two easy ways to schedule your appointment:
1. Visit redcrossblood.org and use the sponsor code “TidewaterSCA” 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
Wilderness First Aid
May 17-18
It’s essential to have some basic principles of wilderness first aid and to know how to apply them, even under stress. Even knowing how to treat minor injuries can make a difference in an emergency situation, treating minor injuries and keeping serious casualties stable until further help is available. Although there are innumerable injuries and ailments that could affect wilderness adventurers, the basic principles of first aid can be applied to almost any situation.
All High Adventure Bases require at least one person (Philmont requires two) in each crew to be currently certified in Wilderness First Aid (WFA) or the equivalent and CPR from the American Heart Association, the American Red Cross, or equivalent. WFA is also recommended for any unit that is conducting backcountry hiking or camping trips.
Prerequisites
- Current CPR/AED certification is required to attend this course. Please bring your card to the course for verification.
- Be at least 14 years of age on or before the last scheduled session of the course.
- Please bring your backpack with wilderness first aid kit and camping supplies. You will use this gear for the various scenarios.
Who?
Everyone attending high adventure bases.
Contact
For questions, contact Frank Mikeals at frank.mikeals@verizon.net.
Popcorn 101 Training
May 21
Designed for new Unit Popcorn Kernels, Popcorn 101 training lays the groundwork for a successful popcorn sale.
- Great resource course for new Unit Popcorn Kernels, Committee Chairs, and Treasurers!
- Gain fundamental knowledge BEFORE the popcorn arrives!
- Chock-full of helpful tips!
- Entry-level information to help form a successful popcorn fundraiser, from start to finish!
- Networking opportunity that shouldn’t be missed!
- Come join us for a popping-good time!
This training will be offered both in-person at the Mary Jayne Breeden Council Service Center and virtually. For questions, contact Tony Montemurno at kerneltbaloney@gmail.com.
Wings of Adventure: Cub Scout Kickoff
May 22
Cub Scout leaders, catapult into 2025 recruitment and planning! Every pack wants to be prepared to fly into action this fall, so plan now for a unit representative to attend!
A crew of fellow Scout leaders will show attendees how to file a flight plan that includes:
- Tidewater Council’s aviation-themed fall incentive plan for each new Scout
- How to recruit adult leaders
- Great ways to market Cub Scout packs in-person and online
- Planning the ideal Scouting year
- How to finance the ideal Scouting year
- Resources available to Cub Scout packs
- The benefits of New Member Coordinators
Leaders can attend the Wings of Adventure: Cub Scout Kickoff either in-person at the Mary Jayne Breeden Council Service Center or virtually via Zoom. RSVP here.
For questions, please contact Bill Lawrence at 828-582-6955.
Annual Memorial Day Parade
May 26
The City of Portsmouth’s Memorial Day Parade, one of the longest running Memorial Day parades in the country, began in 1884. Since that time, Portsmouth has recognized and honored the sacrifices of the brave men and women in the United States Armed Forces each year during the parade.
Enjoy floats, marching bands, military units, and lots of excitement. The parade begins at 10 AM and travels on High Street from Peninsula Avenue (at I.C. Norcom High School) to Crawford Street.
Preregistration is required. For more information, contact Renee Spratley at spratleyr@portsmouthva.gov or 757-393-8481.
2025 Cub Scout Day Camp
June - July
Cub Scout Day Camp is the place to be this summer for a fun-filled Invention Convention!
Cub Scouts of all ranks will have fun while learning at Day Camp. In a program designed to spark their creativity, new and returning Cub Scouts will get to create cool gadgets like a Sailing Car, conduct experiments powering cars with balloons, and continue fundamental skill development with the Cub Scout program.
Current Lions who will be Tigers this fall (rising 1st graders) will have their own special program too, working on the elective adventure “Designed by Tiger.”
Webelos and Arrow of Light Scouts (rising 4th and 5th graders) will get to create their very own toolbox to use for years to come and have a blast creating their very own battery-powered robot. All this, and so much more!
Seven camps are planned for summer 2025. There’s no time to waste; get those gears cranking and REGISTER NOW!
For current Cub Scouts, regular pricing for a five-day camp is only $140!
(And pricing for the special three-day Portsmouth camp and two-day OBX camp is even lower!)
Invite a friend! Not-yet-Cub-Scouts can take advantage of a special registration offering: Register for Day Camp for $235 and get a one-year Scouting America membership.
Elizabeth City Day Camp (Albemarle): June 9-13
Albemarle Day Camp will be held at Holy Family Catholic Church in Elizabeth City. Camp runs from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM, with Friday wrapping up early at 1:00 PM.
For questions, contact Tiffany Bounds at Tnt8593@yahoo.com.
Virginia Beach Day Camp (Bayside): June 16-20
Bayside Day Camp will be held at Bayside Masonic Lodge #218 in Virginia Beach. Camp runs from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM, with Friday wrapping up early at 1:00 PM.
For questions, contact baysidedaycamp.tidewaterbsa@gmail.com.
Virginia Beach Day Camp (Princess Anne): June 23-27
Princess Anne Day Camp will be held at Tabernacle Baptist Academy in Virginia Beach. Camp runs from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM, with Friday wrapping up early at 1:00 PM.
For questions, contact Andrew Huddle at Startscouting@gmail.com or Danielle Smith at danielle.shank03@gmail.com.
Virginia Beach Twilight Camp (Princess Anne): July 14-18
Princess Anne Twilight Camp will be held at the Columbian Club in Virginia Beach. Camp runs from 3:00 PM to 8:00 PM Monday – Friday.
For questions, contact Andrew Huddle at Startscouting@gmail.com or Danielle Smith at danielle.shank03@gmail.com.
Portsmouth Day Camp (Three Rivers): July 18-20
Three Rivers will hold a special three-day camp at Portsmouth Masonic Lodge in Portsmouth. Camp runs from Camp runs from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM on Friday, 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM on Saturday, and 9:00 AM to 12:30 PM on Sunday.
For questions, contact KC Pitko at Kirstin.pitko@cpschools.com.
Chesapeake Twilight Camp (Three Rivers): July 21-25
Three Rivers Twilight Camp will be held at Great Bridge Baptist Church in Chesapeake. Camp runs from 3:00 PM to 8:00 PM Monday – Friday.
For questions, contact Steven Dewey at steven.d.dewey@gmail.com.
OBX Day Camp (Albemarle): July 25-26
For fun in the Outer Banks, Albemarle will offer a special two-day camp at Kitty Hawk United Methodist in Kitty Hawk. Camp runs from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM Friday and 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM Saturday.
For questions, contact Tiffany Bounds, Tnt8593@yahoo.com.
Scout Night with the Norfolk Tides
June 13
Save the date for Scout Night with the Norfolk Tides!
The Tides welcome Scouting families to enjoy an evening at the ballpark as they take on the Nashville Sounds on Friday, June 13, 2025 at 6:35 PM at Harbor Park.
New for 2025: Ticket purchases and camping vouchers will be done all online. More details are coming soon!
Beaver Day
June 14
OA Summer Camp Workday, also referred to as Beaver Day, is a chance for everyone (not just Order of the Arrow members) to help get Pipsico Scout Reservation ready for summer camp. Help make camping areas and structures useful to everyone for years to come.
On Saturday, June 14, 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, the Council Maintenance Chair, to coordinate a project.
As a thank you to volunteers, camping will be available at no cost on Friday night. 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-BeaverDay25. For questions, contact Council Maintenance Chairman Mike Maruska at 757-641-2373 or repairs@pipsicobsa.com.
2025 Summer Camp
June - July
Pipsico Scout Reservation offers a wide variety of activities and programs that enable Scouts to earn awards while having fun!
Facilities include a 40-foot climbing and rappelling tower, air conditioned dining hall, swimming pool with ramp access for those with mobility needs, recently-renovated aquatics center, fully equipped health lodge, trading post, ranges for range and target activities, and more.
All Pipsico programs and facilities are Nationally Accredited.
What are you waiting for? Sign up for Summer Camp 2025 today and get ready for an awesome camping experience, at a beautiful property, with a friendly camp staff.
Get a special discounted early bird rate when you register by April 14!
Week 1: June 22 – June 28
Week 2: June 29 – July 5
Week 3: July 6 – July 12
Week 4: July 13 – July 19
2025 Choose Your Own Adventure Cub Family Camp
July 25-27
Get ready for the ultimate family camp adventure at Pipsico Scout Reservation, where YOU are the hero of your own story!
With the “Choose Your Own Adventure” theme, only YOU decide how much fun you will have. Spend time at the pool, at the shooting ranges, on the climbing tower, and exploring the wonderous nature and grounds at Pipsico – the choice is yours! Experience what Cub Scouts will see at the Scouts BSA level by staying in one of Pipsico’s wall tents with cots, with meals provided by the award-winning kitchen staff. Gather your courage, rally your friends, and prepare for an unforgettable journey where adventure awaits at every turn!
National Scout Jamboree
July 22-31, 2026
The next National Scout Jamboree will be held on July 22-31, 2026 at the Summit Bechtel Reserve in West Virginia! The National Scout Jamboree is a gathering of thousands of members of Scouting America from across the nation.
Start early in gauging interest in attending and planning fundraising so Scouts can take advantage of this unique opportunity. For assistance in planning unit fundraising, check out the Camp Card sale or contact the district executive.
Register now for the adventure of a lifetime!
News
NRA Foundation Grant
We are pleased to announce that The NRA Foundation has awarded Tidewater Council a grant totaling $10,745 to fund youth shooting sports education. The grant provides new shooting sports, archery, and safety equipment, which Scouts will have the opportunity to use at summer resident camp, day camps, and weekend events.
Scouting for Food
Thank you to all who participated in the Scouting for Food drive to benefit local food banks, chartered organizations, and church food pantries. The Scouting for Food team is continuing to collect results.
For those who have not yet reported the number of participants (both youth and adults), number of hours volunteered, and the amount of food collected, please fill out the 2025 Scouting for Food Report Form and email it to Tracy McGlothian at tracy@tmogllc.org by April 18.
Patches and unit ribbons are available while supplies last, so don’t delay!
Scout Shop
Spring Has Sprung!
Spring has finally arrived, and that means it’s a great time to get outdoors!
The Scout Shop has great options for hiking bags for Cub Scouts. The newest option has a built-in Adventure Loop Display so Scouts can show off everything they’ve earned in Cub Scouting. These bags could also double as storage for uniforms, books, and Scout essentials so everything is in one place and easy to find when it’s meeting time.
The Scout Shop also has a variety of hiking sticks that Scouts can customize with Rank Shields.
Crossover Gifts and Summer Camp Prep
Arrow of Light Scouts are now in crossover season, and a great gift for these new Scouts BSA youth is a new pocket knife or knife case that can go on their belt.
The Scout Shop has many different knives and multitools that would be great for youth going to Camporees this spring or Summer Camp this summer.
Come visit the Scout Shop, see the options, and find the right one for your Scout.
New Scouts BSA Youth Leaders
The Scout Shop is stocked with the essentials needed for youth new to troops. Choose from eight different options for neckerchiefs and two different options for neckerchief slides.
The Scout Shop also has a variety of patrol patches for the new patrols forming.
Scout Shop Hours
The Scout Shop will be closed April 18-19.
Scouting Safety Moment
It is recommended to include a Scouting Safety Moment during meetings to inform Scouts and parents and keep everyone safe. Numerous downloadable Scouting Safety Moments are available here.
Skateboard Safety
Skateboarding is super fun, especially when you’re working towards earning the Skating Merit Badge! But the most important thing is to keep it safe for everyone involved.
On average, almost half of all skateboarding injuries involve children under age 15 and most of the children injured are boys. Many injuries happen when you lose balance, fall off the skateboard and land on an outstretched arm. Skateboarding injuries often involve your wrist, ankle, or face.
So, when you’re out there skating and trying to earn that badge, there are some important safety rules to remember.
Registrar's Corner
Membership Applications
Scouting America youth and adult paper membership applications have recently been updated. Please make sure to use the 03/2025 versions of the applications. The version date can be found in the lower right corner of the front page of each application.
Merit Badge Counselor Renewal
Some 2024 Merit Badge Counselors (MBC) have received an email from the National Council of Scouting America stating that their MBC registration has expired. This is due to the new national individual registration system. Leaders should have received several email notices, beginning in November 2024, asking them to renew all their Scouting positions.
Unit Registration vs. MBC Registration
If a leader is registered within a unit, it’s possible that the unit renewed the unit position. However, MBC registration is a district-level registration and requires a separate renewal. Therefore, some leaders who have successfully renewed their unit position may have an expired MBC registration.
Non-Unit Registration/Missed Renewal
For MBCs who do not hold any current registration, either in a unit or non-unit role, their membership has expired due to unpaid fees and lack of renewal.
Unfortunately, the grace period for renewal has now passed for registrations that expired on December 31, 2024. Direct self-renewal is no longer possible.
Current Solution
MBCs who hold a current paid registration in a unit should email jennifer.mapstone@scouting.org and request renewal of their MBC registration. Jennifer can add the MBC registration back to those leaders’ existing registrations, allowing them to continue in that role. In the email, please include the full name under which the leader is registered and their member ID.
MBCs who do not hold a current paid registration should should email jennifer.mapstone@scouting.org and request a registration link. Be prepared to pay the $25 annual MBC national registration fee.
Long-Term Solution
Leaders registered in units should personally renew all their own registrations, instead of relying on the unit. This can be done by logging into My.Scouting > My Applications > My Renewals. These options are only available during the renewal period, which begins 60 days prior to the membership expiration date and ends 60 days after the expiration date.
MBCs who are not registered in a unit should use the National Council emails to renew registrations through the online system. During the renewal period, leaders can also log into My.Scouting > My Applications > My Renewals to process their renewal. As with other registrations, the renewal period begins 60 days prior to the membership expiration date and ends 60 days after the expiration date.
Verify
To verify current and paid registrations, log into My.Scouting and click on My Profile. Scroll down to the Registrations section to review.
Leaders who have forgotten their login should email jennifer.mapstone@scouting.org or registration@twchelpdesk.raiseaticket.com for assistance. Do NOT create a new login.
New Pipsico Scout Reservation Phone
Need assistance reaching Pipsico Scout Reservation?
Pipsico has a new dedicated phone line. Call 757-601-5800 and follow the prompts to reach or leave a message for the staff who can best assist you.
Summer Camp Staff Opportunities
Join the team at Pipsico Scout Reservation!
Are you ready to make a difference this summer and create unforgettable experiences for Scouts and fellow staff members? Pipsico Scout Reservation is looking for enthusiastic and dedicated individuals to join our team! Whether you’re passionate about outdoor education, adventure programming, or supporting behind the scenes, we have a role for you.
Positions Available
- Program Staff (Aquatics, Shooting Sports, Climbing, and more)
- Kitchen Crew
- Camp Counselors
- Administrative Support
- Commissioner Team
Why Work at Pipsico?
- Gain valuable leadership and teamwork skills.
- Enjoy the beauty of the outdoors while making lasting memories.
- Be part of a vibrant and supportive Scouting community.
Help Needed: Camp Moonyah Improvement Projects
Camp Moonyah has been an integral part of Tidewater Council’s camps for more than 85 years. As such, it has a rich history hosting functions, events, celebrations, and ceremonies encompassing all arenas of the Scouting program. Over the past many, many decades, dedicated volunteers have continually strived to improve the camp to ensure safe and enjoyable experiences for all. Even with past improvements, it is time to bring this facility into the 21st century.
Potable Water
Many thanks to a generous donor who has funded the potable water project!
Introduction of Electrical Power
Working with Dominion Power, bringing power into Camp Moonyah will require several measured electrical wire runs of 250’+ from a transformer located off property to the maintenance shed where the meter base would be located. Because of the distance, a 25kw transformer will be required to maintain a continual, safe load of power. The cost of connection to a power source, running a total of 500’+ of underground cable, the transformer, and other fees associated with this project will run from $10,000 – $12,000.
What's Next?
To achieve the success of these projects, we are reaching out to you in Tidewater Council to help fund the electrical power project either in full or in part. By doing so, you will ensure the continued success and growth of Camp Moonyah for decades to come.
For questions or to find out more about how you can support Camp Moonyah improvements, please contact Ron Misfeldt at mustangron@aol.com and Wes Parker at wparker@pipsicobsa.com.
Development Corner
Sponsor a Tent at Pipsico Scout Reservation
Many of Pipsico Scout Reservation’s tents have been in service for 30 years. In order to continue to provide a high-quality camping experience for our Scouts, Tidewater Council is replacing 200 tents between 2023-2027.
Based on the recommendation of our Camping Committee, we are replacing the current wooden platforms and ridge pole system tents with new platforms and tents with aluminum-mounted frames. In addition to housing Scouts and keeping them dry, the new tents will exponentially decrease the time needed for tent setup and takedown. The cost of a new tent, platform, and frame is approximately $1,640 each. A contribution in any amount is appreciated, and will be designated to provide new tents at Pipsico.
Thank you for ensuring that our Scouts enjoy their camping adventures at Pipsico!
Leave a Legacy: James E. West Fellowship Award
The James E. West Fellowship Award is a national recognition for individuals who contribute $1,000 or more in cash or securities to the Tidewater Council endowment fund. This contribution is in addition to, and does not diminish or replace, the donor’s annual gift to the council’s Friends of Scouting campaign.
Organizations or individuals may contribute an award in honor of someone — an Eagle Scout, a Silver Beaver recipient, Living Legend, any outstanding Scout or Scouter.
Program Ideas
April
- National Farm Animals Day: April 10
- Work on the Animal Science merit badge.
- Visit a local farm or petting zoo.
- National Gardening Day: April 14
- Tend a flowerbed or garden for the unit’s chartered organization (with permission).
- Plant seeds.
- Visit a botanical garden.
- Work on the Gardening merit badge.
- Work on the Ready, Set, Grow Adventure for Lions.
- National Look Up at the Sky Day: April 14
- Camp under the stars.
- Work on the Astronomy merit badge.
- Spend time outdoors watching clouds or observing the sunset.
- Go bird-watching or work on the Bird Study merit badge.
- Volunteer Recognition Day: April 20
- Have Scouts make thank you cards or plan an activity to recognize volunteer leaders.
- Do a service project or volunteer activity.
- National Kids and Pets Day: April 26
- Visit or volunteer at an animal shelter.
- Work on the Pets merit badge.
- Work on the Dog Care merit badge.
- National Honesty Day: April 30
- Discuss the first point of the Scout Law: A Scout is Trustworthy.
May
- National Wildfire Awareness Month
- Work on the Fire Safety merit badge.
- Share the Campfire Safety Safety Moment.
- Share the Behavior Around Campfires Safety Moment.
- Work on the Firem’n Chit.
- National Loyalty Day: May 1
- A Scout is Loyal. Discuss what it means to be loyal.
- Display the American flag.
- Say the Pledge of Allegiance.
- Work on the Citizenship in the Nation merit badge.
- World Laughter Day: May 4
- Invite each Scout to tell a joke.
- Ask each den or patrol to perform a funny skit.
- Read the jokes in Scout Life’s Think & Grin section.
- Submit a joke to Think & Grin.
- National Children’s Mental Health Awareness Day: May 8
- Share mental health-related Safety Moments:
- Provide resources, such as the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline (1-800-273-8255) and the Scouting America’s Bullying Awareness resources.
- National Archery Day: May 10
- Attend Guns ‘n’ Grillin’ and try your hand at target archery, action archery, and sporting arrows!
- Sign up for an upcoming event including archery:
- National River Cleanup Day: May 17
- Organize or volunteer with a river cleanup.
- Educate Scouts about clean waterways.
- Work on the Soil and Water Conservation merit badge.
- Memorial Day: May 26
- Participate in a local parade or ceremony.
- Observe the National Moment of Remembrance at 3 PM.
- Visit a military cemetery.
Community Engagement
Memorial Day Ceremony
The Virginia Beach Mayor’s Committee is seeking assistance from older Scouts to volunteer with the city’s Memorial Day Ceremony. This includes Scouts who would be willing to aid in logistics to improve the experience of the ceremony, and two Scouts to lay a wreath during the ceremony.
Interested units or Scouts should contact Jonathan.Murdoch@scouting.org to learn more.
2025 Tidewater Veterans Day Parade: Honoring Vietnam Veterans
The 2025 Tidewater Veterans Day Parade will be a special opportunity to honor Vietnam War veterans, with the commemoration of the 50th anniversary of the Vietnam War. This year’s event will include The Moving Wall that honors those who passed in the war.
Any Vietnam War veterans who are interested in being a key component of the Scouting America Tidewater Council parade contingent should contact Jonathan.Murdoch@scouting.org to learn more.
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. You may also visit NC 211 or 2-1-1 Virginia for assistance finding resources.
Volunteer Opportunities
Visit our Volunteer with Local Scouting webpage for information on additional volunteer opportunities.
Scouts in Action
Scouting in the News
Scouting continues makes a positive impact in the community, and some recent news coverage has local highlighted Scouting’s programs and achievements:
- “3 local troop members achieve Eagle Scout rank” from The Daily Advance, March 20, 2025
- “Hearing from Awesome Local Scouts!” from The Weekly Debrief, March 25, 2025
- “The NRA Foundation Awards Grant to Local Scouting Programs” from the Hampton Roads Chamber of Commerce Member News, April 1, 2025
- Portsmouth City Councilwoman Kathryn W. Bryant recognized Pack 207 and the value of Cub Scouting at a City Council Meeting on March 25, 2025.
Congratulations to the District Pinewood Derby winners!
Albemarle District
Wolf:
1. Jonathan H., Pack 182
Bear:
1. Landon S., Pack 182
2. Chase O., Pack 125
3. Oden M., Pack 125
Webelos:
1. Jayden H., Pack 182
2. Frederic “Fred” N., Pack 164
Arrow of Light:
1. Connor M., Pack 125
2. Nicholas “Jr.” P., Pack 125
Overall:
1. Landon S., Pack 182
2. Abigail S., Pack 182 Family
3. Chase O., Pack 125
Bayside District
Lion:
1. Rhys M., Pack 375
2. Gideon P., Pack 67
3. Thomas M., Pack 493
Tiger:
1. Lachlan L., Pack 482
2. Matthew K., Pack 364
3. Matthew G., Pack 62
Wolf:
1. Johnny M., Pack 375
2. Robby C., Pack 24
3. Oliver M., Pack 482
Bear:
1. Bentley H., Pack 482
2. Owen H., Pack 407
3. Nathaniel E., Pack 493
Webelos:
1. Honor S., Pack 482
2. Davis B., Pack 482
3. Nicholas H., Pack 493
Arrow of Light:
1. Brandon P., Pack 364
2. Alina W., Pack 364
3. Alex T., Pack 24
Overall:
1. Honor S., Pack 482
2. Johnny M., Pack 375
3. Robby C., Pack 24
Princess Anne District
Lion:
1. Orrin H., Pack 700
2. Nakia M., Pack 405
3. Declan W., Pack 374
Tiger:
1. Isla C., Pack 700
2. Isaac B., Pack 16
3. Joseph F., Pack 700
Wolf:
1. Nate B., Pack 179
2. Atlas W., Pack 700
3. Rhett S., Pack 179
Bear:
1. Grayson S., Pack 700
2. Carson R., Pack 504
3. Francis K., Pack 408
Webelos:
1. Rhyland M., Pack 303
2. Dylan M., Pack 179
3. Reagan B., Pack 700
Arrow of Light:
1. Benji P., Pack 408
2. Renly C., Pack 700
3. Antonio V., Pack 374
Overall:
1. Rhyland M., Pack 303
2. Grayson S., Pack 700
3. Dylan M., Pack 179
Three Rivers District
Lion:
1. Ellie R., Pack 413
2. Emma P., Pack 55
3. Jamie R., Pack 57
Tiger:
1. Ezra B., Pack 6
2. Jonas G., Pack 207
3. Samson M., Pack 55
Wolf:
1. Samantha W., Pack 901
2. Logan W., Pack 55
3. Owen C., Pack 6
Bear:
1. Henry B., Pack 48
2. Donovan S., Pack 57
3. Gabe L., Pack 6
Webelos:
1. Elder B., Pack 6
2. Micah G., Pack 57
3. Anthony C., Pack 462
Arrow of Light:
1. Hayden H., Pack 207
2. Emily F., Pack 901
3. Caleb B., Pack 413
Overall:
1. Samantha W., Pack 901
2. Henry B., Pack 48
3. Ezra B., Pack 6
On March 29, members of the Albemarle Chapter of the Order of the Arrow, Blue Heron Lodge collected donations for the 2025 Scouting for Food drive. The Arrowmen were blessed to cheerfully donate 388 pounds of non-perishable food items to Beach Food Pantry in Kitty Hawk, NC.
Pictured:
- Logan S., Eagle Scout in Troop 127 in Maple, NC and Albemarle Chapter Vice Chief
- Oscar W., Senior Patrol Leader in Troop 116 in Kill Devil Hills, NC
- David S., Eagle Scout and Assistant Scoutmaster in Troop 116 and Albemarle Chapter Chief
On March 8, hundreds of Scouts and leaders came together for University of Scouting.
University of Scouting is the premier training event for adult leaders in Scouting America, equipping them with the skills and knowledge to inspire the next generation. At the same time, youth participants had the unique opportunity to earn multiple merit badges in one place, making University of Scouting a one-stop destination for growth, learning, and adventure.
Princess Anne and Bayside Districts held a joint Spring Camporee at Izaak Walton Park on March 28-30.
The weekend started with a movie night on Friday. On Saturday, Scouts learned Scout skills, and eight different merit badges were offered. Troop 362 and Troop 471 took home bragging rights in the cookoff competition. The Princess Anne Chapter of the Order of the Arrow conducted an OA Callout Ceremony and an awesome campfire on Saturday night.
Thank you to all the Scouts and leaders who led sessions, and thank you to all the units and Scouts who attended this memorable Spring Camporee!
Virginia Beach Mayor Bobby Dyer visited Cub Scout Pack 303 during a pack meeting. Mayor Dyer spoke with the Cub Scouts about the importance of community and being VB Strong.
James Carroll, one of Tidewater Council’s newest Silver Beaver Award recipients, also attended to share information about Tidewater Council’s recent accomplishments with the Cub Scout families and with Mayor Dyer.
Scouts BSA Troop 800 held a Spring Court of Honor and New Scout Induction Ceremony in March. Great job, Scouts!
Pack 125’s Arrow of Light den explored the outdoors with Scouts BSA Troop 162 at Goose Creek State Park in March.
The Arrow of Light Scouts completed the Outdoor Adventurer Adventure to earn their Arrow of Light ranks. During the camping trip, the Arrow of Light Scouts also practiced their outdoor cooking skills and finished their Into the Woods, High Tech Outdoors, and Knife Safety Adventures.
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).
