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 May 9, 2025
Each district shares a portion of the overall goal:
Upcoming Events
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 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.
Popcorn Training
June 26 & July 8
Join us to learn about the 2025 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 and location that is best for you!
- Thursday, June 26 at 6:30 PM at Moyock United Methodist Church
- Tuesday, July 8 at 6:30 PM at the Mary Jayne Breeden Tidewater Council Service Center
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.
For questions, contact Erin Alford at erin@realresultsva.com.
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!
Want to attend for the day? Visit for the day on Saturday for only $30 per camper (Saturday lunch included)!
Want to stay one night? Choose either Friday night or Saturday night for only $60 per camper (three meals included)!
Want to stay two nights? Stay for the full weekend for only $75 per camper (four meals included)!
Want to rent a tent and cots? Order a t-shirt? Purchase an extra patch? We have those options too.
Choose your own adventure! That’s what makes this camp so unique. Enjoy swimming, gaga ball, range and target activities, campfire fun, skits, and so much more! This campout is all about making unforgettable memories with family and friends that will last a lifetime. Don’t miss out!
Range and Target Activity Trainings
August - 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 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.
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, popcorn sale, or contact the district executive.
Register now for the adventure of a lifetime!
News
Scout Shop
Congratulations Graduating Class of 2025!
As the end of the school year nears and graduation ceremonies begin, remember to come in and purchase Eagle Scout graduation cords.
Help your Eagle Scout celebrate their accomplishments and show off their Scouting pride when they wear the red, white, and blue Eagle Scout Graduation Cords with their cap and gown. Cords are available in the Scout Shop for $12.99.
New Adventure Loop and Pin Display
The Cub Scout year is coming to an end, and a great way to store and display the Adventure loops and pins earned is the Adventure Organizer.
The Adventure Organizer can hold up to 96 Adventure loops and pins. It is easy to hang and fun to look at to remember your Scout’s activities and achievements.
Show your Scout’s progress through the years, and keep it to display at their Eagle Court of Honor!
New Performance Shirts and Shorts
The Tidewater Council Scout Shop has the new women’s and men’s performance shirts in stock, as well as the new men’s performance shorts. Light-weight and moisture-wicking, they are a great option for everyone going to summer camp, whether they are an attendee or staff.
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.
Heat-Related Illness
Each year, heat-related illnesses strike the unprepared. Prevention is key! Be prepared by acclimating to the environment for at least seven days before going on an outdoor adventure; drinking plenty of fluids and eating a healthy diet beforehand; and continuing to drink fluids when outdoors on hot or humid days. Be sure to drink only when you’re thirsty to avoid overhydrating. Take extra rest breaks, especially if you are exercising strenuously.
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
Noticing names dropped from the unit roster? It is possible that memberships have expired or that the payment process hasn’t been completed.
Membership can be “renewed” within each individual’s annual renewal period, which begins 60 days prior to the membership expiration date and ends 60 days after the expiration date. Outside of the renewal period, membership registration must be processed as a new application.
Youth memberships can only be backdated a maximum of three months. For example, applications received in May can only be backdated as far as February.
Eagle Scout Certificates
There are no updates to the timeline on issuance of Eagle Scout credentials (certificate and wallet card) at this time. The National Council of Scouting America is still working through the process of getting the president’s signature for Eagle certificates.
Until further notice, units can pick up the Eagle kit by presenting proof from Scoutbook that the rank has been earned.
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 (Shooting Sports, Climbing, and more)
- 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
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 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.
June
- National Camping Month
- Attend Cub Scout Day Camp.
- Attend Summer Resident Camp.
- Work on the Camping merit badge.
- Work on the Cub Scout rank-specific Camping Adventure:
- Let’s Camp Lion
- Let’s Camp Tiger
- Let’s Camp Wolf
- Let’s Camp Bear
- Let’s Camp Webelos
- Outdoor Adventurer (Arrow of Light)
- Go camping!
- World Bicycle Day: June 3
- Work on the Cycling merit badge.
- Work on the Cub Scout rank-specific Cycling Adventure:
- Lion: On a Roll
- Tiger: Rolling Tigers
- Wolf: Pedal with the Pack
- Bear: Bears on Bikes
- Webelos: Pedal Away
- Arrow of Light: Cycling
- Go for a bike ride!
- World Food Safety Day: June 7
- Share the Keeping Your Food Safe Safety Moment.
- Work on the Cooking merit badge.
- Flag Day: June 14
- Conduct a flag ceremony.
- Share this article about flag etiquette.
- Work on the American Heritage merit badge (requirement 3b).
- National Go Fishing Day: June 18
- Work on the Fishing merit badge.
- Work on the Fly Fishing merit badge.
- Work on the Fish and Wildlife Management merit badge.
- Work on the Complete Angler Recognition.
- Work on the Cub Scout rank-specific Fishing Adventure:
- Lion: Go Fish
- Tiger: Fish On
- Wolf: A Wolf Goes Fishing
- Bear: A Bear Goes Fishing
- Webelos: Catch the Big One
- Arrow of Light: Fishing
- Go fishing!
- Lightning Safety Awareness Week: June 22-28
- Share the Weather-Related Safety Safety Moment.
- Take Hazardous Weather Training on My.Scouting.
- Take the Scouting Magazine Before the Storm Safety Quiz.
- Share the Scout Life article, “Be Prepared for These 5 Common Weather Hazards.”
- Work on the Weather merit badge.
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 Tidewater Council’s new Eagle Scouts!
Tidewater Council dedicated a new camp shelter at Camp Rotary at Pipsico Scout Reservation on May 3. The Scout Executive Chester G.A. Zucker Family Pavilion was built with a gift from the family of the late Chester G.A. Zucker, a lifelong Scouter, Scout Executive, and Rotary District Governor.
The pavilion will improve the camping experience for Scouts at Camp Rotary at Pipsico Scout Reservation with shelter, lighting, a large park grill, and eight steel and wood picnic tables. Thank you to the Zucker family and all who supported this project!
Congratulations to the outstanding leaders who received special awards at the Council Recognition Banquet!
The Silver Beaver Award is the highest honor bestowed by Tidewater Council to adult volunteers. First introduced in 1931, the prestigious award recognizes leaders who have provided distinguished service to youth.
The National Eagle Scout Association established the Outstanding Eagle Scout Award (NOESA) to recognize Eagle Scouts notable for their local, state, regional, or national distinguished service.
The Living Legends of Tidewater Council award recognizes well-known living volunteers who have generously given untold amounts of their time, resources, and talents to the Scouting program.
Joshua M., a 17-year-old Eagle Scout from Troop 504, was awarded the 2024 Scouting America Tidewater Council Eagle Scout Service Project of the Year.
For his Eagle Scout Service Project, Joshua led construction of an outdoor classroom at Diamond Springs Elementary School.
Tidewater Council is pleased to announce the new Council Service Territory 15 Commissioner, Erich Röetz!
In this role, Erich will lead unit service supporting 64,000 youth and 20,000 adults in 19 Scouting America councils throughout southern Virginia, North Carolina, South Carolina, and part of Georgia.
Apex Entertainment Virginia Beach supported Scouting with a Family Fun Day event on April 6, providing an exciting family event with bumper cars, mini golf, arcade games, and more. A portion of each ticket sold was donated back to Scouting, helping us continue to build character, leadership, and adventure for local youth.
Thanks to Apex and to all the Scouts, leaders, family members, and friends who participated!
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).
