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 10, 2025
Each district shares a portion of the overall goal:
Upcoming Events
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
- Marc Craig
- Gene Hoffman
- Jon McGlothian
- 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.
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 also offered 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
Tickets and camping vouchers are now available 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.
Update for 2025: To save families from paying extra processing fees, all ticket and camping vouchers will be sold through the Tidewater Council Scout Shop. Tickets are $19 each and camping vouchers are $5 each.
All Guide to Safe Scouting rules apply. Only registered leaders may camp with troops, crews, ships, or posts.
For questions, contact Pam.Samples@scouting.org.
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
Bring a Friend. Cut the Cost. Double the Fun.
Know someone who’s ready for adventure? If you’re already a Tidewater Council Scout and you recruit a friend to sign up and join Scouts in Tidewater Council, you BOTH can attend a select week of summer camp at Pipsico Scout Reservation for HALF PRICE!
That’s right – $212.50 off EACH!
Total savings: $425.00!
This offer is only valid for base camp registration for Week 2 (June 29 – July 5, 2025) and Week 3 (July 6-12, 2025). For questions, please contact christy.cooper@scouting.org.
What's waiting for you at Pipsico?
- Premier first-year Scout program
- More than 50 merit badge choices
- High adventure programs
- 1.5 miles of shoreline on the historic James River
- 40-foot climbing and rappelling tower
- Air conditioned dining hall with world class meals
- Swimming pool with ramp access
- Recently renovated aquatics center
- Fully equipped health lodge
- Trading post
- Range and target activities
- Campfires
- The legendary Pipsico Tree
- New friendships and unforgettable memories
Spots are filling up fast – so rally your crew, grab your gear, and get ready to make this summer EPIC. Are YOU ready for the best week of your summer? Let’s make memories at Pipsico!
Sign up today. Recruit a friend. Camp for half.
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
Scout Shop
Sunshine and Blue Skies
Camping season is underway, which means summer camp is right around the corner!
A new item in the Scout Shop is the MosquitOasis, a pop up mosquito net designed to be tied to a cot.
It is designed by a Scout for Scouts everywhere. As well as being collapsible and easy to travel with, it sets up in an instant. This is a great product for Scouts going to summer camp to protect for the bugs in the summer heat.
New Lightweight Uniform Shorts!
Scouting America Outfitters (formerly National Supply) is now trial-running new lightweight Scout shorts. These olive green shorts come in men’s size 26-44. They are moisture wicking and comfort stretch with multiple knife pockets, hidden zipper pockets, and a convenient tool loop on the front belt loop. Tidewater Council’s first trial run participant states that the shorts are very lightweight compared to the traditional material and the pocket options are incredible. Come in and grab a pair for summer camp before they sell out!
New Performance Uniform Shirts!
New Performance Uniform Shirts have just arrived in the Scout Shop!
This quick-drying uniform shirt features a ventilated back for extra breathability. These tan performance shirts are available in both women’s and men’s sizes, small to 4XL for both types.
Come get them before they sell out again!
Shipping
Having a hard time getting to the Scout Shop? We are glad to ship orders by USPS. Just call us at 757-497-2688 or email staci.vankirk@scouting.org. We can fill the order, calculate shipping, and call you back for a VISA, Mastercard, or Discover credit card number.
Scout Shop Hours
The Scout Shop’s next holiday closing is May 24-26 for Memorial Day weekend.
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.
Campout Safety Checklist
Camping is a long-honored tradition for many families, including the Scouting America family. Timing, supplies, and location should be determined ahead of time so you can make the most of your camping experience. There might be some instances where you overthink or underestimate a camping trip, but there are also many ways to enjoy the adventure, fun, discovery, and teamwork involved. A campout safety checklist will help to ensure these aspects of camping are accomplished while keeping you safe.
Blue Heron Lodge Dues
This year, Blue Heron Lodge is giving out the amazing Council of Chiefs Year of Change Lodge Flap as a thank you – just for paying your dues!
To pay Lodge dues for 2025, visit: scoutingevent.com/596-OA2025Dues. More than 480 members have already paid their dues for this year.
If you are a member of another Lodge and would like to transfer into Blue Heron Lodge, please let us know. For questions, email Mike Maruska at mikemaruska1179@gmail.com or Noel Falcon nfalcon001@gmail.com.
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 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
Congratulations to the new Eagle Scouts in March!
Congratulations to the Council Pinewood Derby winners!
Lion
- Rhys M., Pack 375
- Gideon P., Pack 67
- Emma P., Pack 55
Tiger
- Ezra B., Pack 6
- Jonas G., Pack 207
- Joseph F., Pack 700
Wolf
- Robby C., Pack 24
- Johnny M., Pack 375
- Rhett S., Pack 179
Bear
- Landon S., Pack 531
- Bentley H., Pack 482
- Grayson S., Pack 700
Webelos
- Honor S., Pack 482
- Davis B., Pack 482
- Elder B., Pack 6
Arrow of Light
- Brandon P., Pack 364
- Emily F., Pack 901
- Alina W., Pack 364
Overall
- Honor S., Pack 482
- Robby C., Pack 24
- Johnny M., Pack 375
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).
