Table of Contents
Friends of Scouting
Why support Friends of Scouting? Watch the video below from local Scout David S.
You can donate online via the donate button at the top of this page. The look of our online donation portal has changed, but, as before, all Friends of Scouting donations stay local and benefit the same Scouting program you love. You can also fill out a Friends of Scouting pledge card and email it to shannon.foster@scouting.org.
Progress as of March 31, 2021:
Each district shares a portion of the overall goal.
Progress as of March 31, 2021:
Upcoming Events
Many events have been canceled or postponed due to COVID-19.
Click here for a continuously updated list of event changes. Tidewater Council’s official updates and policies can be found here.
Council Pinewood Derby
April 10
Congratulations to all who raced in District Pinewood Derbies! The top three winners of each rank at each District Pinewood Derby have been determined and are set to race in the Tidewater Council Pinewood Derby.
So, get ready to zoooommmmm on over to Tidewater Council’s Facebook Live page to take part in some high-speed fun on April 10, starting with opening ceremonies at 11 AM. Ask your friends and family to cheer you on as well.
Camp Card Sale
Now through July 3
Earn your way to camp with Camp Cards! Camp Cards are cards that offer valuable discounts to local retailers. Some of the discounts are single-use, while many can be used throughout the year. Scouts sell the cards to family, friends, neighbors, and community members. Units earn a 50% sales commission, which they can use to pay for camping adventures.
Contact your district executive to sign up for the sale.
Win a Week of Camp!
For every 20 Camp Cards that an individual Scout sells, they will receive an entry ticket into a drawing for a campership. Entries for the first drawing are due by 5 PM on Friday, April 9, 2021. See page 4 of the Camp Card Guide for details.
Three Rivers Spring Camporee
April 10-11
Come and join the Three Rivers District Spring Camporee!
It’s time to get out to Pipsico Scout Reservation for a fun-filled weekend of Scout skills, camping, and fellowship. It’s been a while since the district units have had the opportunity to gather and compete to win the Traveling Trophy. Units will compete against the clock, testing Scout skills, teamwork, and problem-solving abilities.
Please, keep in mind the program has been designed to ensure all activities are in compliance with COVID-19 requirements as well as state and council policies.
Spring is a great time to be at beautiful Camp Lions on Pipsico Scout Reservation! The natural daffodils are coming up in the wetland areas. Fresh green leaves are coming up in the forest. Why would you not want to camp at Pipsico in the spring?
IOLS will also be offered for adults and senior youth leadership for a small additional fee.
Join us for a great Scouting weekend!
Princess Anne District Merit Badge Fair
April 10
Join us for the Princess Anne District Spring Merit Badge Fair at North Landing Beach. Each Scout will have the opportunity to select two merit badge sessions from among Art, Aviation, Home Repairs, Painting, Plumbing, Surveying, and Welding.
2022 Philmont Contingent Registration Deadline
April 15
For the first time in many years, Tidewater Council is sending a council contingent to Philmont! We will have three crews, with each crew containing nine Scouts and three adults. We have already filled the first two crews – sign up by April 15 to join the adventure!
The trip will take place June 18, 2022 to July 4, 2022. Eligibility information and fees are available on the flyer. If you have any questions, please contact Bill Lawrence.
This is a great opportunity for Scouts and leaders to go on a Philmont Trek, with more support, fewer logistics to worry about, and more bang for your buck!
Albemarle Spring Camp-Arrr-Ree
April 16-18
Calling all troops, crews, and ships! Plot ye course for Albemarle District’s Spring Camporee. You are invited to join us for some swashbuckling fun at our pirate-themed camporee.
Can your patrol find the X that marks the spot from your map? How will your ship handle the land sail? Will your adult leaders bring the spirit of Scouting out in the adult pirate costume contest? Maybe we will even hear a pirate story.
The ship sets sail soon, so chart your course for the weekend of Friday, April 16.
Basic Adult Leader Outdoor Orientation
April 17-18
Basic Adult Leader Outdoor Orientation (BALOO) is an energetic training event that provides the necessary knowledge and skills for a pack to be able to go Family Camping. It will cover everything you need to know to plan and run an overnighter. BALOO is more than just camping; it includes:
- Ideas for outdoor activities, games, and ceremonies
- Information on selecting and using camping equipment
- How to run a campfire program
- Hands-on Cub Scout cooking demonstrations
This training is required for any adult who is in charge of planning a pack campout. It also is required that at least one BALOO-trained adult be present on overnight camping events. Although the minimum requirement for a pack campout is one BALOO-trained leader, it is important to have multiple people trained so that events do not have to be cancelled. Participants attending should dress for the weather, wear comfortable shoes, bring a water bottle and note-taking materials, and be prepared to learn the basics for Cub Scout Family Camping.
There are two upcoming BALOO courses:
Cub Scout Range Master Training
April 18
Attend Cub Scout Range Master Training to become a certified Range Master. The training is valid for two years.
- Every day camp needs a certified Range Master to operate the ranges.
- Any district or council activity including archery, BB guns, sling shots, and/or wrist rockets requires a certified Range Master. These shooting sports are not authorized at pack-level events.
Certified Range Masters are required in order to operate water bottle rocket launches and other such devices that shoot items into the air at unit activities.
Best Hacks for the Best Packs
April 21 and May 19
Learn how to grow your Cub Scouting fun from those who know!
Come to “Best Hacks for the Best Packs” training to:
- Plan your program year
- Recruit adult leaders
- Build a budget
- Raise the funds for your pack
- Bring new families to your pack
There are two dates available, and both will offer both in-person and virtual participation. For questions or to submit your best hacks, contact Bill Lawrence.
This training is absolutely FREE, but registration is required.
Spring Merit Badge Camp
April 24-25
Come camp and earn some merit badges at Pipsico Scout Reservation. This camp is designed to fit within the COVID-19 guidelines, so please read the details carefully.
Meals will be provided, including Saturday lunch and dinner, as well as Sunday breakfast and lunch. Patrols will have a time to come through the dining hall to get their meals to-go and return to their campsites to eat. Check-in will be Saturday morning from 8:15-8:45 AM and Scouts will go to their first merit badge sessions directly. Campsite set-up will be during the two-hour lunch break. We will hold two merit badge sessions on Saturday and one on Sunday morning. Campsite pack-up and check-out will be after lunch on Sunday.
Merit badge choices will be posted on April 7. Merit badge selection will be open from April 9-18.
Please contact brendan.kane001@gmail.com and wparker@pipsicobsa.com if you have any questions.
2021 Tidewater Council Living Legends Nomination Deadline
May 1
Each year at the Annual Council Banquet, Tidewater Council recognizes volunteer Scouters who have provided long, enduring, and impactful service to Scouting in our council, and who continue to actively serve. Some may have been previously recognized with other honors in the past, such as District Award of Merit or Silver Beaver Award, yet deserve further recognition for their service.
Nominations must be submitted on the 2021 Living Legends Nomination Form. Instructions and award criteria are on the form. To be considered, nominations must be received no later than May 1, 2021.
Annual Leadership Breakfast
May 4
Join us for the Annual Leadership Breakfast on Tuesday, May 4, 2021 at 7:15 AM at the Virginia Beach Convention Center. Those in attendance will have the opportunity to make a significant Friends of Scouting gift and to hear from keynote speaker Rocky Bleier, veteran of the U.S. Army and the Pittsburgh Steelers, Bronze Star and Purple Heart recipient, and four-time Super Bowl champion! Donors who give at or above the Patron Level ($500) will receive an autographed memorabilia item.
RSVP to Shannon Foster at shannon.foster@scouting.org.
Wilderness/Remote First Aid
May 15-16
Register now for Wilderness/Remote First Aid – space is limited!
All High Adventure Bases require that at least one person in each crew (two for Philmont) be currently certified in Wilderness First Aid or the equivalent and CPR from the American Heart Association, the American Red Cross, or equivalent. It is also recommended for any unit that is conducting backcountry hiking or camping trips.
Pre-requisites:
- 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.
Council Banquet
May 27
It’s a Celebration of Scouting! Join us at 6 PM on Thursday, May 27. 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 2020 Class of Eagle Scouts, the Silver Beaver Awards, and the 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.
We are excited to host the event this year and have confidence in the COVID-19 protocols in place for the safety of our guests. We are restricted to the number of participants, so please register early. Registration is now open and will close on May 20, or sooner as capacity is reached. This year’s event will be held at the Khedive Shrine Center, 645 Woodlake Drive, Chesapeake, VA. Feel free to reach out to Ron Kilmer or Christy Cooper with any questions or concerns.
Introduction to Outdoor Leader Skills
June 4-5
Join us at Camp Moonyah in Chesapeake for Introduction to Outdoor Leader Skills (IOLS). In this hands‐on course, adult leaders work together as a patrol and learn the practical skills they need to lead Scouts in the outdoors. IOLS builds and expands on the concepts and themes introduced in Scoutmaster Position‐Specific Training. Upon completion, leaders will feel comfortable teaching Scouts the basic skills required to obtain the First Class rank. Along with Scoutmaster Position-Specific Training, this course is required for Scoutmasters and Assistant Scoutmasters to be “position‐trained.”
How to Be a Better Trainer
June 12
A pair of upcoming training courses, The Fundamentals of Training and Trainer’s EDGE, are for anyone interested in different training methods. These courses equip leaders with ideas, techniques, and materials for improving presentations. Learn how to select approaches that will communicate your messages most successfully and with PIZZAZZ! Both courses will be held at Deep Creek UMC in Chesapeake.
Fundamentals of Training
In Fundamentals of Training, participants learn the tools of good training, including characteristics of good trainers, how people learn, and training methods. This course is required for Pack Trainers and recommended for anyone who will be training others, including camp staff and youth who take on the responsibilities of Troop Guide and Instructor. This is a half day course.
Trainer's EDGE
Trainer’s EDGE emphasizes the importance of “experiential learning,” or learning by doing, as well as numerous other contemporary training strategies. The strategies taught in Trainer’s EDGE can be applied to a wide range of training programs. Trainer’s EDGE builds upon the foundation of Fundamentals of Training. This full-day course is required for anyone serving on Wood Badge or NYLT staff.
First Aid / CPR / AED
June 19
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 breathing and cardiac emergencies. Successful students will receive a certificate for Adult First Aid/CPR/AED valid for two years.
This is a blended learning course. Participants must complete the online portion of the course before taking one of the skills demonstration sessions, which will be offered at Pilmoor Memorial UMC in Currituck. There will be three sessions, each limited to eight participants.
National Youth Leadership Training
June 21-26
Tidewater Council will hold a National Youth Leadership Training (NYLT) course at Pipsico Scout Reservation on June 21-26. NYLT is a 6-day, action-packed program designed to provide youth with leadership skills.
When Scouts attend this premier leadership training experience, the knowledge they gain has a direct influence for the continued and enduring success of their unit. A trained youth leader will contribute significantly to retention, recruitment, and unit operations.
Age requirements apply:
- Scouts BSA: 13 years of age or older and at least a First Class Scout by June 21, 2021
- Sea Scouts and Venturers: 14 years or older by June 21, 2021 and under age 21 as of June 26, 2021
Cost:
- $275 if paid on or before April 21, 2021
- $285 if paid April 22 – May 21, 2021
- $295 if paid on or after May 22, 2021
If you have any questions, please contact Course Director Frances Creel at nylt6958@gmail.com.
2021 Cub Scout Day Camps
June & July
Weird Science is about to hit Cub Scout Day Camp. Day camp is an outdoor experience for Cub Scouts, which promotes a year-round program and encourages Cub Scouts to benefit and grow. The daily program centers on Cub Scout and Webelos electives as they relate to the outdoor program. The Scouts will work on activities that are challenging and age appropriate.
There are a wide range of activities, varying between camps, but common activities include:
- Shooting sports (BBs, archery, wrist rockets, and/or sling shots)
- Sports and games
- Science
- Nature
- Crafts
- Skits and songs
- Mealtime programs
All registered Cub Scouts are eligible to attend day camp. All day camps are run with a Camp Director and a Program Director, along with a staff of volunteers to conduct the camp programs. You are invited to be part of the staff – contact Rich Becker for more information.
Register by April 30 to receive the Early Bird rate! Registration ends on June 1. Camp locations and times are subject to change.
Virginia Beach Day Camp
Dates: June 21-25
Location: Tabernacle Baptist Academy
Time: Monday-Thursday 9 AM-4 PM; Friday 9 AM-1 PM
Registration link: scoutingevent.com/596-TabernacleDayCamp2021
Elizabeth City Twilight Camp
Dates: June 21-25
Location: Forest Park Church
Time: 3-7 PM
Registration link: scoutingevent.com/596-ForestParkDayCamp2021
Norfolk Day Camp
Dates: June 28 – July 2
Location: Elks Lodge
Time: Monday-Thursday 9 AM-4 PM; Friday 9 AM-2 PM
Registration link: scoutingevent.com/596-ElksLodgeDayCamp2021
Chesapeake Twilight Camp
Dates: June 28 – July 2
Location: Great Bridge Baptist Church
Time: 3-8 PM
Registration link: scoutingevent.com/596-GreatBridgeDayCamp2021
Portsmouth Twilight Camp
Dates: July 12-16
Location: Coast Guard Base Portsmouth
Time: 3-8 PM
Registration link: scoutingevent.com/596-PortsmouthDayCamp2021
Summer Camp at Pipsico 2021
June - July
Camp Local! Sign up today for Summer Camp at Pipsico Scout Reservation.
Week #1 – June 27 to July 3
Week #2 – July 4 to July 10
Week #3 – July 11 to July 17
Week #4 – July 18 to July 24
Check-in on Sundays between 1 PM and 4:30 PM.
Pipsico 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, BSA is proud to offer quality programs for everyone. Pipsico is geographically located along the James River and adjacent to the epicenter of Virginia’s colonial attractions and thrilling entertainment, such as Busch Gardens and Water Country USA.
Early Bird Discount Extended!
Save $20 per youth when paid in full by April 21, 2021!
Frequently Asked Questions
Visit for pipsicobsa.com for answers to Frequently Asked Questions, including health and safety protocols.
Merit Badge Selection
Merit badge registration will open on April 23 at 9 AM. Read this letter from Camp Director John Scheib for more information about summer camp merit badges.
Huskanaw
Our First Year Camper Program – “Huskanaw,” meaning “Rite of Passage,” is a unique program. The Huskanaw program area encompasses over an acre of property, filled with amenities specifically designed to focus on requirements for Tenderfoot, Second Class, and First Class ranks. The setting teaches new and younger Scouts about troop structure, the value of the Patrol Method, the importance of the Buddy System, and the benefits of learning and applying new skills using the E.D.G.E. Method (Explain Demonstrate Guide Enable).
Meet our Awesome Camp Staff
Camp Provisional!
Provisional campers are Scouts who come to Pipsico Scout Reservation as individual Scouts, rather than coming with a troop. You will be grouped with other provisional Scouts into a provisional troop, and will still enjoy the full, fun, and awesome Pipsico experience!
Attending summer camp at Pipsico Scout Reservation as a provisional camper is a great opportunity for Scouts who can’t attend their troop’s selected dates or location, who prefer to camp locally at Pipsico, or who want an extra week of camp!
Our dynamic Council Commissioner, Erich Röetz, will lead a provisional troop during Week 1 (June 27- July 3). Register for Erich’s provisional troop by signing up on Black Pug under “Week 1.”
If you are interested in serving as an adult provisional leader, please contact Camp Director John Scheib at jscheib@pipsicobsa.com.
Cub Scout and Webelos Resident Camp
July 29 - August 1
Pipsico Scout Reservation is the ultimate in outdoor Scout camping in Tidewater Council. Cub Scout and Webelos Resident Camp is a great way to enjoy a safe haven for each Scout amid a beautiful wilderness camp, while learning about the out-of-doors. These fun-filled days spent in camp will make memories that will last a lifetime.
All Cub Scouts, leaders, den chiefs, parents, and siblings are encouraged to participate during their stay at Pipsico. As you travel through the day’s activities, everyone will have the opportunity to participate in hiking, games, and swimming. Plus there will be some activities just for our Cub Scout-aged participants, such as crafts and shooting sports. We encourage your pack to get fully involved in this year’s theme, “Endless Voyage,” at Cub Scout and Webelos Resident Camp.
In Fond Remembrance
E. David Beedie
David Beedie was dedicated to the Scouting program and made a huge difference in the lives of many youth. His wide-reaching impact included roles as Scoutmaster, Wood Badge Advisor, Order of the Arrow Advisor, Commissioner, Camporee Chair, Camp Inspector, and, of course, Cook Crew. David received the Silver Beaver Award in 1984, honoring his distinguished service to youth.
Services will be held at Edenton United Methodist Church, 225 Virginia Road, Edenton, NC 27932 on Saturday, April 3 at 2 PM. David’s family invites any Scouters attending the service to wear their Scout shirts, green shorts, and tall socks.
News
Name the Flat Scout and WIN!
Get ready for day camp and help us name our Flat Scout! Submit your suggestions to Rich Becker by April 22 at 5 PM. The winning entry will receive a Snap Ships set.
Snap Ships is the sponsor of the Modular Design Preview Adventure.
Scout Shop
With springtime here and restrictions lifting, thoughts are again turning to the great outdoors! Weekend campouts are perfect this time of year, but don’t be caught off guard with wet weather. You can stay dry during the day and warm during the cool nights, so your campout won’t be a washout!
Stay Dry
Frogg Toggs DriDucks 2-piece rainsuits are a comfortable solution to staying dry. These ultra-lightweight suits are rainproof, breathable, and sell for just $19.99 (all sizes). We also have the one-size-fits all plastic ponchos ($1.99), which are easy to pack in small spaces. Everyone needs an emergency blanket, and we have two types ($2.99 & $5.99). Don’t forget Thorlos hiking socks to keep your feet happy after a long day.
For a dry cozy night, we have the Weston Tents (size: 9’ x 7’ x 58”), that sell for $89.99. This domed tent is made of coated polyester, easily sleeps two people, has a heavy-duty waterproof floor and a sewn-in mud mat, and includes a rainfly and stakes. Our Coleman sleeping bags ($59.99) keep you warm down to 25 degrees. Other waterproof items include phone pouches ($5.99), 10” x 13” waterproof pouches ($5.99), waterproof pouches with strap ($9.99), waterproof fire sticks ($2.99), and waterproof matches ($3.99).
Performance T-Shirts
BSA Performance t-shirts are still wildly popular for all Scouts! Made of 100% moisture-wicking polyester, these t-shirts never go out of style and can be worn under the uniform shirt or alone. They help generate body heat in the winter and they dry almost instantly in hot humid weather. They roll up so small that they take barely any space when packing. National Supply has run out of many sizes, but our Scout Shop was able to get some in almost every size. The colors are olive green, red, and tan. Youth sizes sell for $16.99, adult sizes are $19.99. Come get ’em while you can. They won’t last long!
Flag Retirements
Doing a flag retirement ceremony? We have a large supply of flags waiting for you. With more units meeting and camping again, it’s the perfect time to consider this activity.
Unable to Shop In-Person?
Don’t forget that the Scout Shop ships orders (by USPS). If a customer orders an item from National Supply, we usually allow exchanges if it is a current item we are selling. However, we cannot offer refunds on items not purchased here. So, if you can’t get to our Scout Shop, it’s still a better option to allow us to ship it to you. If it doesn’t fit and you can’t find a replacement, we CAN give a refund if purchased here. We accept VISA and Mastercard. Just call us at 757-497-2688 or email polly.fugate@scouting.org.
Scout Shop Hours
Our next holiday closing will be April 2-5 for Easter weekend. We reopen on Tuesday, April 6.
Scout Sail!
Sea Scout Ship 42 is pleased to announce that Cub Cruises and Scout Sails are back for 2021! They are now taking requests to schedule an introductory sail on the sailing vessel “Lynx” for Scout groups of up to 20 participants.
Exchange Student Scouting
Have you ever considered hosting a foreign exchange student? As active Scouters or parents of Scouts, would you like to host a foreign exchange student who is also a Scout in their home country?
International Experience (iE), a non-profit student exchange organization, is currently seeking Tidewater Council Scouting families to host exchange students for August 2021 until June 2022.
- Daniel, a 16-year-old male Scout from Spain
- Tabea, a 16-year-old female Scout from Germany
- Laura, a 15-year-old female Scout from Spain
- Alberto, a 15-year-old male Scout from Spain
- Daniela, a 16-year-old female Scout from Spain
To learn more about each Scout, visit our Exchange Scouts & Students webpage or contact Tracy Mabry, North East Regional Director of International Experience at t.mabry@international-experience.net, 757-427-1964, or 808-372-2597.
iE student applicants go through an extensive application process and take an English proficiency exam. Students come to America to be immersed in American culture, attend high school, and experience everyday family life. The students provide their own personal spending money, school expenses, insurance, and desire to be part of your family. Host families provide a safe caring home, three meals a day, local transportation, and a desire to be an involved and active family.
World Scout Moot
The 2022 World Scout Moot in Ireland will open in less than 500 days (July 18-28, 2022). If you will be between the ages of 18 and 26 next summer, you will not want to miss this global Scouting adventure!
The BSA is sending a National Contingent to Ireland. Registration is now open for participants (ages 18-26) and International Service Team members (ages 27+). To find out more, visit scouting.org/international/world-scout-moot.
Facilitators Development Series Videos
As a result of the Building Evidence in Scouting Together (BEST) Study, Scouting U has developed a series of short videos to help Scout leaders develop facilitation skills. The eight videos include:
- Engaging Everyone
- Learning Styles
- Managing Difficult Conversations
- Facilitation Beyond Training
- Facilitating With Questions
- Patrol Leadership Connections
- Getting To Know Your Patrol Game
- Summarizing Your Presentation
Crew Officer Orientation
The Crew Officer Orientation training course is back up and running with a conversion from Adobe Flash. This version provides the same content and training as the previous course. Scouting U is continuing to work on a full revision of the course. Access Crew Officer Orientation through the BSA Learn Center.
Guardian of the Gate
Central Florida Council Unit Commissioner Darnall Daley’s article, “Guardian of the Gate,” describes Scouting’s approach to advancement and the role of adult in youth advancement.
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.
S.A.F.E. Scouting
The safety of our Scouts, volunteers, and community is our top priority. S.A.F.E. Scouting requires:
- Supervision
- Assessment
- Fitness and Skill
- Equipment and Environment
Use the Service Project Planning Checklist for all Scouting service projects (Order of the Arrow, Distinguished Conservation Service Award, Eagle Scout, and individual or unit service).
Use the SAFE Project Tool Use guide to assess which tools are age-appropriate for your Scouts.
International Water Safety Day
International Water Safety Day, May 15, aims to spread water safety education and drowning awareness.
Suggested ways to observe the day include:
- Adults: Update your Safe Swim Defense and/or Safety Afloat training.
- Units: Present the “Aquatics Safety” Safety Moment at a unit meeting.
- Cub Scouts: Work on an aquatic-related adventure, such as Floats and Boats (Tigers), Spirit of the Water (Wolves), Salmon Run (Bears), or Aquanaut (Webelos/Arrow of Light).
- Scouts BSA: Work on an aquatic-related merit badge, such as Lifesaving or Swimming.
- Sea Scouts: Review a Sea Scout Safety Moment video, such as Life Jackets or 10 Boating Essentials.
- Venturers & Explorers: Review Safe Swim Defense principles and plan a safe aquatic activity for the summer.
Find more tools on the BSA Aquatics Resources webpage.
The International Water Safety Foundation is providing free stickers to raise awareness and spark discussion. Supplies are limited and requests must be made by April 15. Request stickers for your activity at internationalwatersafetyday.org.
News You Can Use
A North Carolina State University study found that participation in outdoor activities boosted the mental health of adolescents ages 10-18 during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Study co-author Kathryn Stevenson said, “Families should be encouraged that building patterns in outdoor recreation can give kids tools to weather the storms to come. Things happen in life, and getting kids outside regularly is an easy way to build some mental resilience.”
Over 3/4 of the survey respondents reported that outdoor activities helped them cope with pandemic-related stress. Teens who were able to play outdoors or participate in nature-based activities maintained higher levels of well-being.
You can add this study to your toolbox when talking to parents about the benefits of Scouting. And it’s a great reason to go camping!
Community Service
A service project is a special “Good Turn” that puts Scout spirit into action. Service is Scouting’s greatest legacy and the primary reason that the Boy Scouts of America is the world’s premier youth organization. We currently have several opportunities for youth to give back to our communities through service. Here are some current projects needing assistance:
- Rain garden project to benefit the SPCA. Contact Clay Bernick at clay@lrnow.org or 757-377-3120.
- Various projects for the Wildlife Rehabilitation Center. Contact Clay Bernick at clay@lrnow.org or 757-377-3120.
- Removal of concrete derbris from Marshview Park. This project goal’s is to be completed in March. They are looking for about ten people, including leaders, for about two hours. There is a potential for a unit to adopt this area as a long-term service project, as the park needs some other work done as well. Contact Vince Bowhers at vince@lrnow.org or 757-773-1636.
- Build two five- to six-foot wooden benches with plant boxes and complete a butterfly garden for the ViBe District Mediterranean Avenue Parklet. This project goal is for an April public unveiling. Contact Vince Bowhers at vince@lrnow.org or 757-773-1636.
- A few projects on the horizon for those Scouts wanting to be a part of planning, execution, and maintenance are slated for the future. A landscape project in the ViBe District, a living shoreline project in Great Neck, and a couple fall tree plantings. Contact Vince Bowhers at vince@lrnow.org or 757-773-1636.
COVID-19 Updates
COVID-19 Guidance
The state-specific safety guidance for Tidewater Council Scouting units has been updated. Access the guidance, and other resources, at tidewaterbsa.com/covid-19-response.
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. North Carolina families, please reach out to NCCARE360 to request assistance. Virginia families, please contact the United Way of South Hampton Roads Coronavirus Response team. For other coordinated care referrals unrelated to COVID-19, please contact us.
Help Desk
The National Council no longer has a volunteer help desk. If you need assistance with any help desk issues, including Scoutbook, online training, and address changes, please contact us at helpdesk@tidewaterbsa.com. In your email, please include:
- Your Name
- Member ID
- Contact Phone Number
- Contact Email Address
- What is the issue? (Password reset, a module is freezing, forgot username, etc.)
- If it is a training issue:
- Username
- Date Training Taken
- Browser Used
Due to high volume, we are unable to respond to phone inquiries; please send all help desk issues via email.
Transfers
If you are transferring a youth from Cub Scouts to Scouts BSA and receive the “Person has no valid parent/guardian relationship in our records” error message, please submit a help desk request to helpdesk@tidewaterbsa.com.
Scoutbook
On April 12, all adults who are not registered as a member in the BSA will be removed from your unit’s Scoutbook adult roster. Learn more in Scouting Forum.
Special Needs Scouting Conferences
This August, Summit Bechtel Reserve will hold two conferences designed to help develop and improve Scouting experiences for youth with special needs.
- DiversABILITY & DisABILITY Conference will help leaders develop and grow Scouting for youth with special needs. Learn to maximize resources and manage expectations. Expand your knowledge to positively impact local youth.
- Special Needs Committees in your Council Conference teaches participants how to build or improve the local council’s Special Needs Committee. The conference will discuss advancement, camping considerations, and the difference between accommodations and modifications.
National Advanced Youth Leadership Experience (NAYLE)
NAYLE prepares youth leaders for success. The leadership course will be offered at Summit Bechtel Reserve and Philmont Scout Ranch during summer 2021.
NAYLE builds upon skills learned during National Youth Leadership Training (NYLT). Engaging activities equip young women and men to navigate team dynamics to plan for success, using tenets of servant leadership.
NYLT Leadership Academy
Have your Scouts or Venturers completed National Youth Leadership Training (NYLT)? Are they interested in going more in-depth in their leadership development? Are they interested in teaching leadership skills to others? Invite them to check out NYLT Leadership Academy!
New for 2021: Graduates of the Leadership Academy will be eligible to receive one college credit from West Virginia University! This is the first-ever BSA youth leadership course that has sufficient academic rigor for high school students to earn college credit.
NYLT Leadership Academy is ideal for NYLT staff and any NYLT graduate who instructs others, including summer camp staff. There will be two course in 2021:
- Beaumont Scout Reservation in St. Louis, MO, June 27 – July 3
- Summit Bechtel Reserve in Glen Jean, WV, July 11-17
Philmont Training Center
The Philmont Training Center (PTC) offers many opportunities to learn about Scouting and to develop your skills as a Scout leader. PTC is not just for you, but for the whole family. They offer a day camp experience for younger youth and an outpost camp for those over 14 years of age. Spouses have fun horseback riding, visiting local museums, and touring Villa Philamonte.
Courses include:
- How to Engage the New World of Female Scouts
- Older Youth Programs
- Baptists Scouting: How to Minster to Families
- United Methodist Scouting: 100 Year Celebration
- Shooting Sports: The Next Level
- Visual Story Telling
Scouts in Action
Thank you to Scouting for Food Chair Tracy McGlothian, and to all of the amazing Scouts who participated in Scouting for Food 2021!
Several Albemarle units have taken advantage of the spring weather that has occasionally peeked through, and have enjoyed the outdoors. Pack 116 enjoyed a nice hike.
Troop 505 and Troop 162 went a few steps further and completed their own 10-15 mile hikes.
Princess Anne Pack 14 held an Arrow of Light graduation and bridging ceremony on March 21.
Albemarle Pack and Troop 164 in Edenton met together and practiced the EDGE training method. The troop helped the Cub Scouts learn some Scout skills.
On March 20, Scout leaders took training for first aid, CPR, and AED.
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