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Tidewater Council's Response to Proposed Colonial Virginia Council Merger
Late last week, an announcement was made about a proposed merger between Scouting America’s Colonial Virginia Council (CVC) and Heart of Virginia Council (HOVC).
Tidewater Council’s (TWC) executive committee began meeting early last week when rumors about possible discussions between those two councils began to spread. It had extensive meetings and conversations over the previous weekend, building on work it had previously done regarding a potential consolidation with CVC.
If Colonial Virginia Council seeks consolidation, Tidewater Council is the stronger and more logical partner. TWC and CVC are part of the same Hampton Roads region, sharing the same families, economy, and community networks. Consolidating these two councils is the solution that fits how our region actually works. It’s the option that strengthens Scouting here at home. In addition, TWC’s recent successes in fundraising, membership, camp investment, and more outpace HOVC.
This week, John Scheib, Tidewater Council’s president, sent a letter to Colonial Virginia Council president Will Sampson, which made a compelling case that TWC was a much stronger consolidation partner for CVC than HOVC and invited further discussions with CVC about consolidation.
We hope you agree. We are sharing this letter with Tidewater Council stakeholders to ensure that everyone is aware of the situation and its status. We’ll keep you up-to-date on the progress as more information becomes available.
Upcoming Events
Giving Tuesday
December 2
Giving Tuesday, the Tuesday following Thanksgiving, is an annual global day of generosity.
On December 2, join Tidewater Council in making a difference for Scouts and families in northeastern North Carolina and southeastern Virginia. Every gift helps build leaders who embrace character, adventure, and service. Save the date and be part of something big this Giving Tuesday!
Scout Night with the Norfolk Admirals
December 6
Join the Scouts to cheer on the Norfolk Admirals as they take on the Florida Everblades!
Tickets are now available for $18 each at the Tidewater Council Scout Shop, 1032 Heatherwood Drive, Virginia Beach, VA 23455. A portion of ticket sales supports local Scouting. Units purchasing tickets will be recognized on the video board.
The tickets purchased in the Scout Shop are actual tickets with assigned seats. If you are attending Scout Night with the Norfolk Admirals as a unit or with a group, please purchase the tickets together to ensure you are seated together.
Wreaths Across America
December 13
Wreaths Across America is a nonprofit organization founded to continue and expand the annual wreath-laying ceremony at Arlington National Cemetery.
Each December, on National Wreaths Across America Day, Wreaths Across America’s mission to Remember, Honor, and Teach is carried out by coordinating wreath-laying ceremonies at more than 5,200 locations in all 50 U.S. states, at sea, and abroad. This year’s Wreaths Across America Day will take place on Saturday, December 13, 2025.
Anyone who wants to offer a small gesture of gratitude for the freedoms Americans enjoy can volunteer at a wreath laying ceremony. Participate in a ceremony, thank fallen veterans for their service, and assist in saying veteran names aloud.
Scouts can volunteer at local cemeteries on National Wreaths Across America Day and play a valuable role by placing live, balsam veterans’ wreaths on the headstones of our fallen heroes.
If your unit is interested in participating, visit wreathsacrossamerica.org/GetInvolved/PlaceWreaths for more information.
Albemarle District Freezoree
January 23-25, 2026
Many Scouts have gone to camp before, but this camp will be truly unique.
Prepare to be transported to the 1600s during the early settlement of the Carolinas. A decree has been issued:
It is hereby decreed that all the clans (troops, posts, crews, and ships) within the lands held by Lord Proprietor of the Carolinas and Commander and Chief of Scotland, George Monck, the 1st Duke of Albemarle (the area of Albemarle District) shall present all their able-bodied youth for testing of athletic prowess and skill at the Albemarle District Highland Games. Clans of the Tidewater region in the Colony of Virginia are duly invited. The games will be held at the Encampment of Dinkerderry in Tyner in the County of Chowan within the Province of Carolina.
The events shall include the Haggis Hurl, Tug O’ War, Welly Tossing, Raiding Ladder Build, Sheaf Toss, and Maide-leisg. Clans are encouraged to adopt a tartan and wear it to all events. Tastefully worn kilts are highly encouraged.
The winner of the Games shall receive the coveted Crystal Thistle award.
Registration is open, so sign up now on Black Pug!
Council Camporall
April 17-19, 2026
Discover a Tidewater American Adventure at the 2026 Council Camporall at Pipsico Scout Reservation!
The Camporall invites Scouts ages 11+ to celebrate the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence with program areas centered around eras of America, such as the Old West and the Space Age. Be Prepared for Camporall-wide competitions, engaging activities, and lots of outdoor fun!
Save the date for April 17-19, 2026!
Wood Badge
May 1-3, 2026 and May 30-31, 2026
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. “The Expert in Anything was Once a Beginner.”
Join us at awesome Pipsico Scout Reservation, where we will walk through the journey of a Scout, from Cub Scouting to Scouts BSA to Venturing, Sea Scouting, and Exploring. Explore ways you can enhance the Scouting program for today’s youth and beyond.
Learn More
- Wood Badge Video (Watch on Facebook)
- Wood Badge Pre-Course Orientation
- First, log in to My.Scouting.org.
- Then, navigate to training.scouting.org/courses/SCO_12017 to access the orientation.
Registration
- Register online through Black Pug.
- Payment is self-paced, and a $50.00 deposit will hold your place.
- Full payment must be submitted by March 31, 2026.
- Scholarships are available. Scholarship applications must be submitted by February 27, 2026. Scholarship forms and instructions are available on the Black Pug registration page.
Contact
For questions, reach out to 2026 Wood Badge Course Director Tom Conter at [email protected].
Pipsico Scout Reservation Summer Camp
June-July 2026
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 2026 today and get ready for an awesome camping experience, at a beautiful property, with a friendly camp staff!
Week 1: June 21 – June 27
Week 2: June 28 – July 4
Week 3: July 5 – July 11
Week 4: July 12 – July 18
National Scout Jamboree
July 22-31, 2026
Get ready for the ultimate Scouting experience! The 2026 National Scout Jamboree, being held from July 22-31, 2026 at the Summit Bechtel Reserve in West Virginia, is more than just an event—it is a high-adventure, memory-making, confidence-building journey that your Scout will never forget.
Picture thousands of Scouts from across the country coming together for ten action-packed days of ziplining, mountain biking, rock climbing, water sports, skateboarding, fishing, patch trading, leadership development, and lifelong friendships.
The National Scout Jamboree is a chance for Scouts to grow, explore, and connect in a way that only Scouting can offer. Whether they are looking for adrenaline-pumping adventure or a deeper connection to the Scouting movement, the Jamboree delivers.
Do not miss this incredible opportunity to be part of something big. Spots are filling quickly—learn how your Scout can be part of the excitement by visiting TidewaterBSA.com/jamboree. Sign up today!
National Scholarship Program
Dreaming of the 2026 National Jamboree but concerned about the cost? The National Scholarship Program is here to help!
The National Scholarship Program for the 2026 National Jamboree is designed specifically for Scouts who are excited to join this life-changing experience but may need financial support to make it happen.
Details
- Scholarships cover a portion of the national registration fee.
- Additional council fees (travel, gear, etc.) are not included.
- Full scholarships are rare; most awards cover less than half the national fee.
- Staff members are not eligible, but those aged 16–29 receive a reduced staff fee.
Deadlines
- Round 2: Apply by November 30, 2025 (notifications by mid-winter)
How to Apply
- Visit the official Jamboree site at Jamboree.Scouting.org/participants.
- Complete the online scholarship application.
- Submit by the deadline.
Don’t let finances hold you back. Apply today and take the first step toward an unforgettable adventure!
2026 National Jamboree Staff Band
The 2026 National Jamboree Band is actively seeking talented musicians to join its full-time staff ensemble. Composed entirely of registered Scouts and Scouters, the band provides musical support for ceremonies, special events, concerts, and entertainment throughout the National Jamboree for thousands of attendees.
Seeking
- Registered Scouts and Scouters with musical experience
- All instrument positions available, including drumline
- Repertoire includes popular music, patriotic selections, marches, and pep band favorites
Eligibility
- Young adult staff: Ages 16-29
- Adult staff: Ages 30+ (Applications welcome, though initial preference given to youth staff)
How to Apply
- Visit: jamboreeband.colbsa.net
- Email Director George Pinchock at [email protected]
Join an unforgettable experience combining a love of music with the adventure of the National Jamboree!
MOHAB Trek
June 26 - July 5, 2027
Join the Tidewater Council High Adventure Committee for an unforgettable trek and pack rafting trip to the Montana Outdoor High Adventure Base (MOHAB) in summer 2027!
MOHAB is unlike any other base. Its remote location and treks going into the Bob Marshall Wilderness Complex offer many possibilities. With the rugged wilderness and the multi-sport expedition format, each trek becomes a truly unique experience. Participants will explore pristine landscapes, take on challenging physical and team-building experiences, while growing in independence and leadership throughout the adventure.
Registration
Ready to sign up? Submit the participant application here. No payment is due until the crew is filled and application is approved.
World Scout Jamboree
July 30 - August 8, 2027
The World Scout Jamboree is held every four years around the world. The next Jamboree will be held in Gdansk, Poland in the summer of 2027 and will have approximately 45,000 Scouts and leaders from over 140 countries in attendance.
Age Requirements
- Participants must be between the ages of 14-17 at the start of the Jamboree on July 30, 2027.
- Those over 17 at the start of the Jamboree can apply to be a unit leader or on staff.
- Those under age 14 are not eligible to attend the 2027 World Scout Jamboree. Save the date for the 2031 World Scout Jamboree in Denmark!
For More Information
- World Scout Jamboree website: jamboree2027.org
- US Contingent website: wsj2027.us
News
Scouting Safety Moment
It is recommended to include a Scouting Safety Moment during meetings to inform Scouts and parents and keep everyone safe. Numerous Scouting Safety Moments are available here.
Frostbite
Serious injuries can occur when it’s cold and you spend time working, playing, or sleeping outside, particularly if you are wet or your clothes are wet or too tight. Scouts should be instructed to inform an adult as soon as possible if they are at an event, winter camp, or troop campout and start experiencing any of the symptoms identified in this Safety Moment.
Registrar's Corner
Den Leader Position Names
To streamline leader registration and annual den rank progression, named den leader positions (i.e. Tiger Cub Den Leader, Webelos Den Leader, Lion Den Leader, Lion Coordinator) have been transitioned to simply “Den Leader.”
In addition, the Assistant Webelos Den Leader position has been transitioned to “Assistant Den Leader.”
Leaders with named den leader positions have been given new positions with the same expiration and end dates and should not experience any changes in functionality. No action is needed by the unit or leaders.
Scoutbook+ Permissions Manager
Permissions Manager is a tool within Scoutbook+ that will allow units to move leaders from one registered/functional position to another.
See the ScoutBook+ Permissions Manager Guide for instructions on using this tool.
Development Corner
Share the Spirit of Scouting this Holiday Season
Celebrate the joy of giving by investing in character, leadership, and the future of our youth.
As we approach the end of the year, there is still time to make a meaningful difference in the lives of young people across Tidewater Council. Your generosity strengthens Scouting programs that build leadership, service, and resilience in thousands of youth throughout our communities.
Many donors are surprised to learn that there are tax-wise ways to give that may benefit both you and the Scouts we serve:
- Gifts of appreciated securities, such as stocks, bonds, or mutual funds, may allow donors to avoid capital gains taxes and receive a charitable deduction for the full fair market value of the gift.
- Qualified charitable distributions (QCDs) from an IRA can count toward your Required Minimum Distribution (RMD) and may reduce your taxable income. These gifts can make a powerful impact on local Scouting programs while supporting your personal financial goals.
When you give in these ways, your contribution goes even further—supporting outdoor adventures, leadership training, camp improvements, and year-round programming that helps young people grow into the leaders our communities need.
There’s Still Time to Make a Difference
Financial institutions often require requests for securities transfers and IRA distributions to be made by mid-December for the current tax year. If you’re considering this type of gift, we would be honored to help you complete the process smoothly.
If we can answer any questions or assist you in any way, please contact Christy Cooper at 208-597-6044 or [email protected]. We are grateful for your commitment to Scouting and for the difference you make in the lives of young people every day.
Thank you for your continued support, and warm wishes for a joyful and meaningful holiday season.
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, or any outstanding Scout or Scouter.
Popcorn
Looking for a way to fund an awesome program for your Scouts? The annual Popcorn Sale is here to help!
Online Sales
It is not too late for your unit to participate in the 2025 Popcorn Sale! Online sales continue until November 23.
Online popcorn sales are an easy way to earn money for your unit, with no product handling or money handling required! The customer orders and pays online, with free shipping straight to the customer. Units earn 30% commission on online sales, and each Scout receives a unique Seller ID to ensure credit goes to the right unit. Sell online at prpopcornstore.com. If you do not know your Scout’s Seller ID, please contact the Unit Popcorn Kernel.
Now Hiring
Summer Camp Staff Opportunities
Join the team at Pipsico Scout Reservation!
Are you ready to make a difference next 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
- Camp Director
- Program Director
- Camp Commissioners
- Area Directors: Huskanaw, Aquatics, Waterfront, Pool, Nature, Scout Craft, Heritage, Handicraft, Shooting Sports, Climbing, Trading Post, PEX High Adventure Program
- Dining Hall Manager
- Medic/Health and Safety Officer
- Program Staff
- Kitchen Crew
- Camp Counselors
- Administrative Support
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.
Don’t wait—applications are open and positions are filling fast!
Camp staff interviews will be conducted in-person during Zomboree on December 6, 2025 and again at Winter Camp on January 17, 2026. This is your chance to meet the team, ask questions, and secure your spot for an incredible summer experience.
ScoutReach Program Aide
Tidewater Council is seeking an enthusiastic, dependable, part-time ScoutReach Program Aide to help deliver engaging afterschool Scouting programs to youth in Portsmouth and Norfolk public schools. This role plays a vital part in ensuring that children in underserved communities experience the fun, leadership development, and values that Scouting offers.
Programs are held Monday through Wednesday from 3-6 PM, with occasional weekend outings. Flexible scheduling may be available. Applicants must be over 18, and a Scouting background is preferred.
Scout Shop
Eagle Scout Gifts
The Tidewater Council Scout Shop has several new Eagle Scout gift options!
The “Ascending Eagle” statue is a scale replica of the Ascending Eagle Statue at Summit Bechtel Reserve in West Virginia, a tribute to females in Scouting.
The “Scout with Eagle” statue features a male Scout, and makes an excellent gift for Eagle Scouts and their mentors.
The Eagle Scout Memory Box is a great option to store all the gifts, cards, and mementos an Eagle Scout receives at their Eagle Court of Honor.
Swag Bags Are In!
Come check out the new Cub Scout swag bag! Each bag features a fun blue tie-dye pattern and comes with a frisbee, journal, and cool Cub Scout stickers. They make great bags to carry the Six Essentials during hikes and camping trips.
Scout Shop Hours
On Thursday, November 20, the Scout Shop will be opening late at 1 PM.
The Scout Shop will be closed Thursday, November 27 through Saturday, November 29 for Thanksgiving.
Program Ideas
November
- Family Stories Month
- Invite Scouts to come up with questions or prompts to ask their family members at holiday gatherings.
- Work on the Genealogy or Family Life merit badges.
- Encourage Cub Scouts to discuss their families’ faith traditions as they work on the rank-specific Family & Reverence Adventure:
- Lion: Lion’s Pride
- Tiger: Tiger Circles
- Wolf: Footsteps
- Bear: Fellowship
- Webelos: My Family
- Arrow of Light: Duty to God
December
- Learn a Foreign Language Month
- Recognize members who speak a foreign language with the Interpreter Strip.
- National Slime Day: December 7
- Make slime!
- Wreaths Across America: December 13
- Remember, honor, and teach about our servicemen and women by participating in this national event. Visit wreathsacrossamerica.org to find local opportunities to participate.
- Bill of Rights Day: December 15
- Work on the Citizenship in the Nation merit badge (requirement 4b).
- Wright Brothers Day: December 17
- Work on the Aviation merit badge.
- Learn about the history of flight right here in Tidewater!
- Visit the Wright Brothers National Memorial.
Community Engagement
2026 Virginia DWR Archery Open
The Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources (DWR) invites the archery and conservation community to participate in the 2026 DWR Archery Open. The second annual competition will take place Saturday, January 10, 2026 in Richmond, Virginia.
Registration is now open at dwr.virginia.gov/archery-open.
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 October!
Nearly 600 Scouts and leaders marched in the Tidewater Veterans Day Parade at the Virginia Beach Oceanfront on November 11. Sponsored by the Hampton Roads Council of Veterans Organizations (HRCVO), the annual parade pays tribute to the men and women who have served in all branches of the U.S. Armed Forces.
Thank you for helping us celebrate our nation’s veterans!
Simone Nied, a Tidewater Council 2022 Eagle Scout, had an exciting moment standing at the intersection of World Scouting and the United Nations (UN). In late September, the United Nations announced the launch of its Youth Empowerment Fund to promote youth participation and youth-led action in support of the partnership between the UN and the Big Six Youth Organizations. Word Scouting is one of these “Big Six.”
Simone was invited to sit on a panel at the Cornell Club in New York City during United Nations General Assembly Week a few weeks ago. The other members of the panel were Mr. Jito Kayumba, Special Adviser to the President of Zambia; Dr. Felipe Paullier, UN Assistant Secretary-General for Youth Affairs; Veronika Novotná, an EU Youth Delegate; and John Danielson, the Chairman of the Board of the US chapter of The Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award.
Why Simone? Because she had earned the highest rank in two of the “Big Six” organizations: in addition to earning the Eagle Scout rank, she earned the Gold Award from the Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award.
“I would not have had a lot of opportunities if I hadn’t earned my Eagle,” Simone said, “but I definitely would not have had this opportunity if I hadn’t also earned the Gold Award.”
In addition to participating in the panel in front of a packed room, Simone met David Berg, the Secretary-General of the World Organization of the Scout Movement, as well as the other leaders of the rest of the Big Six.
“It was eye opening to see that what we do at the council level, and even at the troop and pack level, is part of a greater movement that touches 250 million young people worldwide,” Simone said. “Being a Scout got me into some great places around Virginia. I didn’t realize it could get me into rooms filled with international leaders as well.”
Tidewater Council is home to the first “Award Center” in Virginia for the Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award. If you’re interested in learning more about the Award, contact Joel Nied at [email protected].
We want to hear from you! Send stories, photos, and videos of your Scouts in action to [email protected] (with parental permission, of course).