“EK” Electronic Knapsack – February 15, 2022

Table of Contents

Friends of Scouting

Friends of Scouting is Tidewater Council’s annual giving campaign. The Friends of Scouting campaign provides 21% of the council’s annual budget – that means more than a fifth of every dollar in the council budget comes from the generosity of Scouting families, alumni, and community supporters. Friends of Scouting keeps the overall cost of Scouting affordable so all families can participate.

All Friends of Scouting donations stay local to support families in northeastern North Carolina and southeastern Virginia. You can fill out a Friends of Scouting pledge card and email it to shannon.foster@scouting.org or donate using the button below:

Campaign progress as of February 15, 2022:

Council Goal: $450,000
44.8%

Each district shares a portion of the overall goal.
Progress as of February 15, 2022:

Albemarle District Goal: $30,000
41.4%
Bayside District Goal: $185,000
35.5%
Princess Anne District Goal: $145,000
51.1%
Three Rivers District Goal: $90,000
55.1%

Pathfinder donors lead the way to success by making their pledge early in the campaign. Donors who give a Friends of Scouting gift by February 28, 2022 will be recognized with a special Tidewater Council Pathfinder lapel pin.

Upcoming Events

American Red Cross Pint-Size Hero Blood Drive

February 16

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. Each Scout who recruits a donor will receive an American Red Cross braided bracelet.

WHEN:
Wednesday, February 16, 2022

WHERE:
Tidewater Council
Mary Jayne Breeden Council Service Center
1032 Heatherwood Drive
Virginia Beach, VA 23455

TIME:
1-6 PM

MAKE AN APPOINTMENT: 
There are two easy ways to schedule your appointment:
1. Visit redcrossblood.org and use the sponsor code “TidewaterBSA” in the “Find a Blood Drive” field.
2. Make your appointment on the American Red Cross Blood Donor App.

CONTACT: 
Nicole Moga
704-564-5565
Nmoga149@yahoo.com

Albemarle District Freezoree

February 18-20

It’s not too late to sign-up! Register by 11 PM on Wednesday, February 16 to be a part of some fun and outdoor fellowship with other units.

Winter Weekend is a chance to join in one of the oldest traditions in Boy Scouts of America – coming together as a district for Scouting. District gatherings provide an opportunity for fun, friendship, and fellowship. We would love for you to come join the fun and excitement of this year’s Winter Weekend.

Join us February 18-20 at Maple Commerce Park, Barco, NC. All Tidewater Council troops, crews, and ships are welcome to attend. Registration is open on Black Pug.

This weekend, the Scouts have the option to participate in a couple district-sponsored winter-themed activities. The majority of time, troops will focus on their needs and try to stay warm. Coffee and hot cocoa will be provided during the Saturday morning and afternoon activities to any Scout or Scouter who has their own mug (no cups will be provided).

The Scout Oath and Law will govern the behavior of all participants during this weekend. The principles of Leave No Trace should be always practiced.

Camp Card Training

February 22 and February 24

The 2022 Camp Card Sale is coming soon to help Scouts earn their way to the adventures of Scouting. Camp Cards are cards that offer valuable discounts to local retailers. Scouts sell the cards to family, friends, neighbors, and community members. Units earn a sales commission, which they can use to pay for camping adventures.

To Be Prepared for the sale, each unit is requested to send a representative to one of two upcoming training sessions. Both trainings will be offered virtually via Zoom. The Zoom credentials can be found in the 2022 Camp Card Guide.

  • Tuesday, February 22 at 7 PM
  • Thursday, February 24 at 7 PM

Three Rivers District Appreciation Dinner

February 25

Join us to recognize some of the outstanding volunteers of Three Rivers district. Dinner will be catered by Pollard’s Chicken (choice of vegetable, chicken, or BBQ).

Registration closes on February 21, so sign up today!

Virginia Beach Trade-O-Ree

February 25-26

Buy, sell, and trade Scouting collectible memorabilia at the 2022 Virginia Beach Trade-O-Ree. Check out the event flyer for more information.

VFW Scout of the Year Nominations Due

March 1

Annually, the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States awards three Scouts who have achieved the highest rank in their Scouting program and who exemplify the qualities of that rank. For members of the BSA, that means the Scout is a recipient of the Eagle Scout Award, Venture Summit Award, or Sea Scout Quartermaster Award. Scouts must be registered, active members of their troop, crew, or ship, and must demonstrate exemplary citizenship in school, Scouting, and community.

There is no minimum age requirement for applicants as long as all other eligibility criteria has been met. The maximum age requirement for applicants is 18 years old. If an applicant reaches their 18th birthday during the nomination year, they remain eligible as long as they are still in high school at the time of the submission deadline. Furthermore, the student does not have to be a military dependent, nor do they need to be related to a VFW or VFW Auxiliary member to participate in this program.

Awards are:

  • $5,000 1st place National scholarship
  • $3,000 2nd place National scholarship
  • $1,000 3rd place National scholarship

To apply, submit:

  • Photograph of the Scout
  • School Participation Record
  • Scouting Record
  • Community Service Record
  • Letters of Recommendation
  • Completed Entry Form

Complete rules and eligibility requirements can be found here. For questions, contact 816-756-3390 ext. 6155 during normal business hours, Monday through Friday, or email scouting@vfw.org. The VFW Scout of the Year Award application deadline is March 1, 2022.

Pinewood Derby

March - April

Get your engines ready – it is Pinewood Derby season!

What is a Pinewood Derby? The Pinewood Derby is one of the most popular and successful family activities in Cub Scouting. Cub Scouts design and build their own small wooden cars, with some help from their families. Then they race their cars in competition, down a gravity-powered track.

Win or lose, Cub Scouts will take pride in having done their best. Cub Scouts learn craft skills, STEM principles, the rules of fair play, and good sportsmanship—things they will remember for life.

You can view the 2022 Pinewood Derby Rules & Procedures for Tidewater Council here. Scouts must make a new car each year.

Albemarle District Pinewood Derby: March 5

Get ready to rumble at the Albemarle District Pinewood Derby on March 5 at 10 AM. All racers of each rank from every pack in Albemarle District are eligible to race. Arrows of Light (AOL) who have just bridged to a troop are still eligible. Family Fun Run races are an open class that will race after the qualified racers. The entry fee for qualified pack racers is $8.50 per car. Family racers are $10 per car (no trophies for family racers; this is for bragging rights only).

Registration is available on Black Pug. Late registration starts February 20 and the deadline to register is Friday, March 4 at 5 PM.

Bayside District Pinewood Derby: March 5

Start your engines! The top three finishers of each rank from every pack in Bayside District are eligible to race in the Bayside District Pinewood Derby. Arrow of Light Scouts (AOL) who have just bridged to a troop are still eligible.

Three Rivers District Pinewood Derby: March 5

Get ready for the Three Rivers District Pinewood Derby! The top three finishers of each rank from every pack in Three Rivers district are eligible to race. Arrows of Light (AOL) who have just bridged to a troop are still eligible. The entry fee will be $8.50 per car. Hurry to the starting line – registration will close on February 26. For questions, please contact Paul Hunter at cubmasterpack246@gmail.com.

Princess Anne District Pinewood Derby: March 26

Let’s race! The Princess Anne District Pinewood Derby will be held at Kempsville Presbyterian Church. The top three finishers of each rank from every pack in Princess Anne district are eligible to race. Arrows of Light (AOL) who have just bridged to a troop are still eligible. For questions, please contact Andrew Huddle at Pack496vb@gmail.com or Adam Harlan at gunner0879@mac.com.

Council Pinewood Derby: April 9

Scouts who qualify in the top three of their class at the district level will qualify for the council derby. We hope to see you there!

Den Chief Training

March 5

Den Chief Training combines fun and enjoyment with an excellent character‐building experience. Participants learn leadership, organization, and, most importantly, how to work with Cub Scouts.

The training is designed for current and aspiring den chiefs. Adults who work with den chiefs are encouraged to attend as well; den leaders will benefit from learning about the den chief role and how den chiefs can best support the den.

Join us at the Mary Jayne Breeden Council Service Center on March 5 for the next Den Chief Training.

Princess Anne Volunteer Recognition Dinner

March 5

Princess Anne District will honor outstanding volunteers and enjoy dinner and fellowship at the Columbian Club. Come out to see who is awarded the District Award of Merit, the unit leader of the year, and committee members of the year.

2022 Tidewater Council Living Legends Nominations Due

March 5

Nominations are now open for 2022 Tidewater Council Living Legends.

Each year, Tidewater Council recognizes those volunteers who continue to provide significant leadership, service, and support to Scouting over many years and in many roles, and who continue serving after they may have been recognized in other traditional ways (Silver Beaver, Award of Merit, etc.). Help to acknowledge those volunteers for their continued contributions before their council peers at the Tidewater Council Annual Recognition Banquet. Provide inspiration for others to also continue their valued service to Scouting.

Nomination forms must be received no later than Saturday, March 5, 2022 to be considered.

University of Scouting

March 12
What is University of Scouting?

University of Scouting is an annual one-day training convention with a festive atmosphere. More than 100 class options are available, and attendees can mix and match classes to suit their interests. Most classes are taught by volunteers who share not only their knowledge, but also their passion. 

Who can attend?

University of Scouting is designed to offer something for all Scout leaders and parents. There are classes for Scouts BSA, Cub Scouting, Venturing, and Sea Scouting leaders, as well as general Continuing Education options. All adult leaders, volunteers, parents, and registered Scouts BSA youth from throughout the council are invited to attend. 

Where is it?

Great Bridge Baptist Church, 640 S. Battlefield Blvd., Chesapeake, VA 23322.

When is it?

Saturday, March 12, 2022 from 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM.

How to Sign Up?

Sign up online through Black Pug. Register before February 26 to get the discounted rate.

Order of the Arrow March Service and Ordeal Weekend

March 18-20

Registration is now open on Black Pug for the March Service and Ordeal Weekend. New candidates are invited to register and attend. Don’t delay, register today. We want to know who is planning to attend so we can Be Prepared.

New Member Coordinator Training

March 22

Calling all Cubmasters and Committee Chairs-

Do you find that you are being pulled in 15 different directions? Wouldn’t it be nice to have an extra set of hands? Someone to follow up on those new leads or help a new family with their questions? The three-word solution is: New Member Coordinator.

Let us show you how this position can be an asset to your unit and make your life a whole lot easier. We will also be showing new key 3’s how to work Invitation Manager to help grow your unit. If you have a person in mind or would like to learn more about this position and Invitation Manager, this evening is for you.

Join us on March 22 from 6:30-8:00 PM at the Mary Jayne Breeden Council Service Center, 1032 Heatherwood Drive, Virginia Beach, VA 23455. No registration is necessary. For questions, please contact Pam Samples at pasamp42@gmail.com or Rich Becker at Richard.Becker@scouting.org.

Tidewater Council Annual Recognition Banquet

March 24

The Annual Recognition Banquet is held each year to recognize Eagle Scouts and the volunteers of Tidewater Council. Some of the highlights of the evening will be the presentation of the Kent Glover 2021 Class of Eagle Scouts, Silver Beaver Awards, and NESA Outstanding Eagle Scout Awards. The evening will start with dinner served by our own Blue Heron Lodge cook crew. This will be a night of food and fellowship you will not want to miss. Join us on March 24, 2022 at 6 PM at the Khedive Shrine Center, 645 Woodlake Drive, Chesapeake, VA. Registration is open on Black Pug.

Bayside District Recognition Breakfast

March 26

Bayside District will recognize adult volunteers for their outstanding service in Scouting for 2021 with a Lumberjack Pancake Breakfast!

This breakfast event will include recognition of District Award winners and District Award of Merit recipients. Bring your friends and family for a morning of food, fun, and fellowship.

Albemarle District Spring Camporee

April 1-3

It’s time to “Show Your Know-How” of your Scout skills at Albemarle District’s Spring Camporee. All troops, crews, and ships are invited to join us for some patrol and unit competition. The Albemarle Camporee will ensure patrols and new Scouts are working through the four phases of team development and will recognize Honor Campers with an OA Callout Ceremony. Mark your calendar and plan to join us on the weekend of April 1-3 at the Currituck County Rural Center, 184 Milburn Sawyer Road, Powells Point, NC 27966. Details and registration are coming soon.

Princess Anne District Spring Camporee

April 1-3

“Finish First” at the Princess Anne District Spring Camporee, April 1-3 at the Columbian Club, 1236 Prosperity Road, Virginia Beach, VA 23451. The program will consist of Scout skills stations led by senior Scouts, using the EDGE training method (Explain, Demonstrate, Guide, Enable). These stations will provide an opportunity for newer Scouts to learn and demonstrate skills required for First Class, and for experienced Scouts to teach via EDGE, fulfilling Life Scout rank requirement #6.

Annual Leadership Breakfast

April 6

Join us for the Annual Leadership Breakfast on Wednesday, April 6, 2022 at 7:15 AM at the Westin Town Center, 4535 Commerce Street, Virginia Beach, VA 23462.

Those in attendance will have the opportunity to make a significant Friends of Scouting gift and to hear from keynote speaker Todd Huston, Distinguished Eagle Scout, amputee, author, world record holder, and inventor. With his journey of pain, determination, and adventure, including his expedition to the highest peaks in all 50 United States, he inspires others to overcome their own challenges. 

To RSVP or inquire about sponsorship opportunities, please contact Susan Miley-Petrehn at susan.miley-petrehn@scouting.org or 757-284-0796.

Wood Badge

April 8-10 and April 30-May 1

Wood Badge is the preeminent Scouting leadership program for adult leaders. Wood Badge courses make Scouters better leaders by teaching advanced leadership skills, and by creating a bond amongst leaders working toward improving Scouting for all.

Attending Wood Badge is an amazing personal experience. Participants develop lasting friendships. The personal and professional skills learned at Wood Badge help Scouts, Scouting units, and even benefit participants in their careers.

Wood Badge Course NST15-596-22 will be held at Pipsico Scout Reservation on Friday, April 8 – Sunday, April 10 and Saturday, April 30 – Sunday, May 1, 2022. Participants must attend both weekends of the course activities to complete the practical phase of the training.

For more information, contact NST15-596-22 Course Director Jon McGlothian at 2022WoodBadge@gmail.com or your District Training Chairperson.

Cub Scout Family Camp

April 22-24

Cub Scouts and their families are invited to escape the indoors and experience a variety of activities during a fun-filled weekend at Pipsico Scout Reservation. Cub Scout Family Camping Weekends are an opportunity to get away from the busy buzz of the city for the weekend and enjoy some time in the great outdoors. Explore with nature walks, shooting sports, crafts, and fishing. To assist with campsite assignments, it is recommended that you register your entire pack at one time.

Wilderness/Remote First Aid

May 14-15

Wilderness first aid (WFA) refers to any training course that focuses on prevention, assessment, and treatment for an ill or injured person in a remote environment where definitive care by a physician and/or rapid transport is not readily available. WFA courses are intended for anyone planning a remote high adventure, from lay responders to medical professionals.

All four of the BSA high-adventure bases require at least one person per trek (two per trek at Philmont Scout Ranch) to be current in WFA through one of the BSA’s approved providers. Of course, having more participants trained in WFA skills is highly recommended for any high adventure or backcountry experience.

Tidewater Council’s next WFA course is scheduled for May 14-15. Current CPR/AED certification is required to attend this course.

Adult First Aid/CPR/AED Training

May 21

The Adult First Aid/CPR/AED course incorporates the latest science and teaches students to recognize and care for a variety of first aid emergencies such as burns, cuts, scrapes, sudden illnesses, and how to respond to breathing and cardiac emergencies for victims about 12 years and older. Successful students will receive a certificate for Adult First Aid/CPR/AED valid for two years. This is a blended learning course; you must complete the online portion before taking one of the skills demonstration sessions. There will be three sessions offered on May 21 at the Mary Jayne Breeden Council Service Center. Registration opens March 1.

Summer Camp at Pipsico

June 26 - July 23

Pipsico Scout Reservation offers Scouts and Scouters the opportunity to immerse themselves in a positive camping environment, at a beautiful property, with a friendly camp staff. Tidewater Council is proud to offer quality programs for everyone.

Week #1 – June 26 to July 2
Week #2 – July 3 to July 9
Week #3 – July 10 to July 16
Week #4 – July 17 to July 23

Summer Adventure Programs at Pipsico

Take your adventure to the next level! Looking for something a little bit different? Pipsico also offers three Summer Adventure Program opportunities. Each is operated in parallel with base camp, and was developed for more experienced Scouts.

  • Sail Hampton Roads: A full week of sailing and nightly port visits on the James and Elizabeth Rivers
  • SCUBA Camp: Earn “Open Water Diver” SCUBA Certification and your SCUBA Merit Badge
  • PEX: Take your adventure to the next level with the adrenaline-fueled Pipsico Experience

Powder Horn

September 9-11 and September 16-18

Powder Horn is a resource course designed to introduce Scouting’s adults and youth to the exciting outdoor and high-adventure program possibilities for their unit. The ultimate goal is for the participants to leave the course with a list of ideas to help their program, along with the contacts and resources needed to implement them.

Participant Requirements
  • Must be either:
    • An adult registered in BSA, fully trained for their position
    • A youth 14 years old (or 13 years old and have completed 8th grade) by the start of the course, AND have unit leader approval, AND have taken ILS for their unit type
  • Must have completed and submitted training certificates for:
    • Youth Protection Training
    • Hazardous Weather
    • Safety Afloat
    • Safe Swim Defense
    • Climb On Safely
  • Must submit current, completed Annual Health and Medical Record (AHMR) Parts A, B, and C
  • Must submit proof of swim classification (any level is accepted)

National Youth Leadership Training (NYLT)

November 11-13 and November 18-20

Every leader deserves a trained Scout! Youth aged 13 and above are eligible for BSA’s premier youth leadership training program, NYLT. This program is designed to help Scouts make the most of their leadership skills, to become the best leaders that they can.

The objectives of the course are to:

  • Provide a toolbox of leadership skills
  • Relate these skills to leading in their unit
  • Instill knowledge and confidence to run the unit program
  • Enhance the relationship between the Scout and the unit
  • Share ideas and experiences with other Scouts
  • Experience Scouting at its best
  • Have fun!

The course will be held the weekends of November 11-13 and 18-20, 2022 at Pipsico Scout Reservation. If you have any questions, please contact the course director, James Carroll, at 596nylt@gmail.com.

2023 National Scout Jamboree

July 19-28, 2023

Scouting’s next big adventure is on the way July 19-28, 2023! The National Scout Jamboree is a gathering of thousands of members of the Boy Scouts of America.

Scouts BSA, Venturers, and Sea Scouts attending the Jamboree will enjoy more than five miles of zip line and challenge courses, 36 miles of mountain bike trails, and 13 acres of shooting sports ranges on a sprawling 10,600-acre site in West Virginia! There are also world class venues for white water rafting, kayaking, rock climbing, bouldering, ATVs, skateboarding, and BMX, as well as arena shows, treetop canopy tours, exhibit areas, patch trading, and more. 

Tidewater Council is organizing a contingent to attend this 10-day ultimate experience. We are currently accepting youth sign ups for the limited spaces available. Adults who are interested in attending as leaders should contact Jeff Irving at jeffreyirving@cox.net.

Apply before April 30, 2022 to be eligible to apply for scholarships.

News

Scout Shop

The month of February comes with several exciting events!

Pinewood Derby

As Pinewood Derby races roll ahead this time of year, plan to make your pack event even more exciting! Racers will love the colorful 2022 Pinewood Derby patch ($1.79). Also available are:

  • Participation Ribbons ($6.99/10 pack)
  • Bronze, Silver, and Gold Lanyard Medals ($3.99 each)
  • Red, White, and Blue Car Lanyard Medals ($2.99 each)
  • Gold, Silver, and Bronze Trophies ($8.99 each)

Every racer can take something home for a great memory!

Scout Sunday

While many units celebrated Scout Sunday on February 6, there is still time to have a Scout Sunday celebration during Scouting Anniversary Month. The Scout Shop has Scout Sunday Program Covers for $13.99 (100 pack) and Scout Sunday Program Inserts for $7.99 (25 pack), which may be used with any church program. The inserts and program covers are not dated, so they can be saved for the next year if they are not all used. Don’t forget to award each participating Scout with the 2022 Scout Sunday patch ($3.49 each).

Blue & Gold Banquets

Cub Scout packs are also preparing for upcoming Blue & Gold celebrations to commemorate 92 years since the Cub Scout program began in 1930. Unfortunately, with supply issues, our National distributors were not able to get Blue & Gold patches for 2022, but we do have some undated Blue & Gold patches on our front table and some Cub Scout party goods in our stationery section to help make this celebration a fun time!

Arrow of Light Crossovers

This is also the time of year that many Arrows of Light crossover to new troops, so please make sure they have all the needed information for shopping. Is the pack or troop providing handbooks, neckerchiefs, slides, or shoulder loops? What color is the troop neckerchief? Do they need to purchase troop numbers, or does the unit have them custom made? These are just a few of the questions we can’t answer.

Shipping

We continue to ship orders as needed by USPS. Call us at 757-497-2688 or email polly.fugate@scouting.org. We will take your order, figure shipping costs, and return your call for a VISA or Mastercard number. All orders are taken to the post office for a tracking receipt.

Scout Shop Hours

During these winter months, please be aware of inclement weather and make sure we are open by calling, or by consulting our council Facebook page or website. Remember, if Virginia Beach City Public Schools are closed, we usually will be closed also.

Our next holiday closing will be April 15-16 for Easter weekend.

BSA Safety Moment

It is recommended to include a BSA Safety Moment during meetings to inform Scouts and parents and keep everyone safe. Numerous downloadable BSA Safety Moments are available here.

Transporting Scouts Safely

Driving can be one of the most dangerous forms of travel. Motor vehicle accidents can lead to serious injuries and even fatalities—not only for the driver but for passengers and others on the road. Motor vehicle accidents typically produce the most frequent and severe liability claims affecting the Scouting family. 

Resources
  • Transportation Safety Shorts: Twelve handouts that address hazards and provide tips for drivers. Topics include Loading and Towing Trailers Safely, Driving a Full-size Van, Avoiding Rear-end Collisions, and more.
  • Drive Safely E-Learning Course: This one-hour training is available in the BSA Learn Center. (Search the catalog for “Drive Safely.”) This driver improvement program is based on the concepts of defensive driving, recognizing hazards, and preventable collisions. Once the course is completed, a certificate will be generated and the participant’s training records will be updated.
  • Guide to Safe Scouting Transportation section: Be sure to follow all policies in the Guide to Safe Scouting. Remember that youth drivers are prohibited; drivers must be 18 years of age or older.
  • SAFE Transportation Checklist and Pre-Trip Transportation Inspection: This two-page checklist is designed to help leaders manage the risks associated with transporting Scouts.

Volunteer with the Membership Team

The Tidewater Council Membership Team is looking for volunteer assistance:

  • Scouts BSA Recruiting Chair
    • Assist the membership committee with developing recruiting campaigns directed at middle and high school-aged youth.
    • Time commitment: 3-6 hours per month plus one monthly committee meeting
  • Homeschool Parents
    • Assist the membership committee with developing a recruiting campaign directed at homeschooling families.
    • Help staff 2-4 daytime joining events in March and/or April.
    • Time commitment: 2-4 hours planning, 1-2 hours for each joining event
  • Millennial Scout Moms
    • Take part in developing an Instagram campaign. The goal is to encourage Instagram-savvy parents to act as “Scouting Influencers” by using agreed-upon hashtags to promote Scouting activities.
    • Time commitment: 3-6 hours in total
  • Spanish-Speaking Scouters
    • Speak to potential chartered partners to help form units to serve our Hispanic community.

If you are interested in volunteering or have any questions, please contact Dave Bussiere at dave.bussiere@gmail.com or 757-575-4117.

Distinguished Conservation Service Award Training

In response to the needs of Scouts working toward the BSA Distinguished Conservation Service Award, Scouting U and the National Outdoor Programs Team have released a new training program for BSA Distinguished Conservation Service Award Advisors and Council Conservation Committee members. This training will only be available online.

This new training program is available by logging onto My.Scouting.org and launching the BSA Learn Center. Search the catalog for “DCSA Advisor/Committee Training.” The Learning Plan consists of eight courses, making it easier to complete the two-hour training in segments. It is recommended to complete the eight modules in order.

National Advanced Youth Leadership Experience (NAYLE)

National Advanced Youth Leadership Experience (NAYLE) builds upon skills learned during National Youth Leadership Training (NYLT), with engaging activities that equip young women and men to navigate team dynamics to plan for success using tenets of servant leadership. Youth leaders in Scouts BSA, Venturing, and Sea Scouts who have attended NYLT are invited to attend NAYLE this summer at Summit Bechtel Reserve or Philmont Scout Ranch.

NYLT Leadership Academy

NYLT Leadership Academy is a high-level course for National Youth Leadership Training (NYLT) graduates. This course trains Scouts to be world-class presenters, evaluators, and leaders. During a week at the Academy, participants will hone their presentation and evaluation skills, meet successful leaders, participate in problem solving panels, learn best practices, and much more.

Participants of the NYLT Leadership Academy can receive college credit through West Virginia University.

Five courses will be offered this summer:

  • Beaumont Scout Reservation, Missouri: June 25-July 2
  • Summit Bechtel Reserve, West Virginia: July 3-9
  • Summit Bechtel Reserve, West Virginia: July 10-16
  • NorCal Adventure Area, California: July 10-16
  • Camp William B. Snyder, Virginia: July 24-30

Blue Heron Lodge

Arrowmen, the time has come for us to renew our dues for the 2022 Service Year. You can pay your dues online here or at the Scout Shop using this form. It is incredibly important that you pay your dues, as it helps us support our program for Scouts throughout Hampton Roads and Northeastern North Carolina, as well as aiding our Lodge Performance. Thank you all for your dedication and support to Blue Heron Lodge.

Camp Staff for Summer Camp 2022

What are your plans for next summer? Are you looking for an awesome opportunity to learn new things, develop new skills, share what you know, meet new people, work an internship, and enjoy Pipsico Scout Reservation?

We are accepting applications for Counselors in Training, Junior staff, Area directors, Commissioners, and administration. Program areas include aquatics, shooting sports, Scout skills for new Scouts and for seasoned Scouts, handicraft, cook-crew, and more.

You must be at least 14 years of age by June 20, 2022 to be considered. Camp staff is composed of youth, young adults, college students, school teachers, bus drivers, professionals who want to get away from the office, and folks who have an open schedule. Fill out the online application at pipsicobsa.com/summer-camp-programs/staffapplication and we will contact you for an interview.

District Executive Job Opening

Since 1910, Scouting has helped mold the future leaders of this country by combining educational activities and lifelong values with fun. The Boy Scouts of America believes and understands that helping youth puts us on a path towards a more conscientious, responsible, and productive society.

Today’s professional Scouters are a diverse group of men and women sharing a dynamic career offering independence, achievement, and stability. This is work that makes a difference, work that calls one to continual learning and challenge, work that offers solid compensation, benefits, and advancement.

If you or someone you know is interested in making a difference through a career in Scouting, please contact Bill Lawrence at bill.lawrence2@scouting.org.

Service Hour Reporting

Units report both their unit and Eagle project service hours via Scoutbook. It is also important to tell the community about Scouts’ service projects. This raises awareness of Scouting and how it gives back to the community.

Units should tell their chartered partner about the hours the Scouting unit has completed for them and for the community. Sharing this information can help strengthen the relationship between the unit and the chartered partner. For example, if the unit completes a landscaping project for the chartered partner, it is helpful to share how many hours were spent on the project. Service hours translate to money the chartered partner does not have to spend.

COVID-19 Assistance

Does your family need assistance due to COVID-19? 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.

Scouts in Action

Cub Scout Pack 150 enjoyed a visit from Perquimans County Sheriff Shelby White. The Cub Scouts even had the opportunity to check out a patrol car!

Albemarle Troop 127 collected 288 food items (270.8 pounds) for the Pilmoor United Methodist Church Food Pantry. Great job, Scouts!

(Pictured: Sam Casey of Pilmoor UMC, Senior Patrol Leader and Star Scout Preston M., First Class Scout Chase B., and First Class Scout Logan S.)

Troop 117 welcomed its newest members to Scouts BSA, with an Arrow of Light crossover ceremony with Pack 117. Great job, Scouts and leaders!

On Scout Sunday, Albemarle Troop 127 First Class Scouts Logan S. and Chase B. welcomed members of Moyock Baptist Church in Moyock, NC.

Wayne Richardson, Scoutmaster of Troop 493, was recognized with a News 3 Everyday Hero Award. He has been a Scout leader for half a century, and a positive role model for hundreds of local Scouts.

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