Table of Contents
Upcoming Events
Scout Scarf Day
August 1
Happy Scout Scarf Day! Around the world, neckerchiefs have different names, including “necker” and “scarf.” No matter which word is used, the Scout Scarf represents being a part of the Scouting movement.
On August 1, Scouts worldwide wear their scarves to celebrate the first Scouting adventure to Brown Sea Island in 1907. Celebrate the 116th birthday of Scouting and the international community of 57 million Scouts by proudly wearing your scarf today!
Tidewater Council’s International Scouting Committee invites you to share photos of you and your Scouts wearing neckerchiefs on Scout Scarf Day!
Scouting for Blood Drive
August 2
Did you know that one donation of blood can save up to three lives? Or that every two seconds, someone in the U.S. needs blood? Tidewater Council is partnering with the American Red Cross to host a blood drive through the Pint-Size Hero program. This program introduces youth to the components of blood and the importance of blood donation. Scouts have the opportunity to demonstrate leadership by recruiting blood donors, hosting drives, and engaging in the community.
WHEN:
Wednesday, August 2, 2023
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 Fall Kickoff Roundtable
August 9
Come join your fellow Scouters on August 9, 2023 from 6-8 PM at Holy Family Catholic Church, 1453 N. Road St., Elizabeth City, NC. We will have food, fellowship, and lots of fall program updates. Fried chicken will be provided. Troops and Ship, please bring a side dish. Packs and Post, please bring a dessert to share. We are asking for an RSVP to our assistant district commissioner, Frances Creel, at madamcommish15@gmail.com. We hope to see all Albemarle District Scouters!
Backpack to Retention
August 17
Cub Scout packs, if you missed the May Backpack to Retention, never fear! Another session will be held in August. (And if you attended in May, you are welcome to join us again for a refresher.)
Load up your backpacks with the tools to ready your pack for fall success. We are gathering some of the most successful Cub Scouters in the council to share some of their best methods in:
- Planning the next program year
- Recruiting more Scouts
- Turning parents into leaders
- Retaining Scouting families
Contact Bill Lawrence for more information.
Charter Renewal Summit
August 26
The annual Charter Renewal Summit is scheduled for Saturday, August 26 at the Mary Jayne Breeden Council Service Center at 9 AM. Doors will open at 8:30 AM. There will be a Zoom option as well.
This meeting will include information on program and membership resources, the timeline for the 2024 charter renewal, Journey to Excellence, and non-traditional chartered organization discussions. There will be time for questions and answers as well. As in previous years, the Charter Renewal Summit will not be a step-through of the instructions on how to complete a recharter, but rather an introduction to the resources and timeline.
RSVP to TWC.commish.596@gmail.com by Wednesday, August 23.
High Adventure Trekking Skills Basic Training
September 15-17
The High Adventure Committee is holding a High Adventure Trekking Skills Basic Training at Merchants Millpond State Park in Gates County, NC on September 15-17, 2023.
For Scout leaders and senior youth looking to take a lengthy backpacking or canoe trek, this is the place to learn the required basic skills. This training includes information on formulating a budget, making reservations, sightseeing, meal planning, determining trek routes, developing crew gear, waterproofing, and more.
Participants can choose either the canoeing or backpacking track, and will take an actual mini trek. Very experienced leader Jeffrey Irving, who led the High Adventure canoeing program in Tidewater Council for more than 35 years, will teach trek skills. Likewise, several very knowledgeable backpackers will teach the art of backpacking.
The cost is $20 per person. Participants are encouraged to join one of Tidewater Council’s upcoming contingent treks, and to go on to start or help continue their units’ high adventure program. (More information on the council’s upcoming contingent treks is in the “News” section below.) Come and learn from the best Tidewater has to offer.
For more information, contact Jeffrey Irving at 757-646-5218 or Bill Lawrence at Bill.Lawrence2@scouting.org.
Pow Wow
October 7
Calling all Cub Scout Leaders! Adventure is Out There at Pow Wow, the annual supplemental Cub Scout Leader Training event. We’re offering 31 Cub Scout-specific classes, as well as Rangemaster Certification. Red Cross CPR Certification will also be available for an additional fee.
When: Saturday October 7, 2023
Time: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Where: Hickory Middle School in Chesapeake, VA
Registration: $26
Not sure what to do with your kids? Bring your Cub Scouts with you to attend Akela’s Academy!
What about younger youth? Bring your toilet-trained younger siblings to attend Tot Lot! Registration for youth is $15 per child.
Registration is coming soon!
Albemarle District Fall Camporee
October 20-22
A camporee can be a perfect showplace for the Scouting program and, therefore, go far beyond just being a gathering of youth. A camporee starts with the recognition that a patrol is the basic camping unit. The patrol demonstrates its very best camping techniques and shares its experiences with other patrols. The camporee involves the type of equipment that can be carried in a pack by youth and can be set up entirely by them, allowing them to be completely self-sufficient for a self-reliant experience.
This year, Albemarle District will hold its Fall Camporee on October 20-22, 2023 at Maple Commerce Park in Barco, NC. This year’s theme is “Work Hard Play Hard.” We are working hard for the community through service projects in the morning and having fun and fellowship in the afternoon. The day will end with a campfire and cracker barrel.
All Tidewater Council Scouts BSA troops, Venturing crews, Exploring posts, and Sea Scout ships are welcome and encouraged to attend. We hope to see you there!
Princess Anne District Fall Camporee
October 20-22
The 2023 Princess Anne District Fall Camporee is coming to Camp Kiwanis at Pipsico Scout Reservation this fall!
Get ready for an adventure-filled weekend with:
- Scout skills and puzzles led by older Scouts
- Saturday night cookoff
- Potluck cracker barrel for youth and adults
- Saturday night campfire conducted by the Princess Anne chapter of the Blue Heron Lodge
For questions, please contact Sam Grinvalsky at sgrinvalsky@gmail.com or 757-639-7214. Save the date – registration is coming soon!
Basic Adult Leader Outdoor Orientation (BALOO)
October 21-22
Basic Adult Leader Outdoor Orientation (BALOO) is a one-and-a-half day course that introduces leaders to the Cub Scout outdoor program. BALOO is designed for leaders interested in adding a camping component to their pack activities.
BALOO consists of an online pre-requisite component and an overnight, hands-on practical. The course teaches BSA’s Cub Scout level camping policies and the necessary tools to help units carry out a successful camping experience. When a Cub Scout pack or Webelos den camps, a minimum of one adult who has completed this training must be present on the overnight experience.
Save the date for the next BALOO course on October 21-22 at Camp Moonyah in Chesapeake. Registration opens on August 23.
Albemarle District Fall Cuboree
October 27-29
This Cub Scout Family Camping Weekend is an opportunity to experience Scouting with others! There will be a variety of activities to include things for nature enthusiasts, fishermen, marksmen (aspiring marksmen), and more. The program schedule is jam packed with activities; however, if a Scout tires out or a program doesn’t interest you, feel free to do your own thing. Please try not to arrive late to sessions, as safety briefings must start on time.
Participants are invited to camp from Friday evening through Sunday, or any portion in between. Families are welcome to arrive on Friday to set up camp and relax (this makes Saturday easier). Likewise, after a day of activity on Saturday, you are welcome to take it easy Saturday night and make your way home on Sunday morning.
The Albemarle District Family Camping event will be held at Currituck County Rural Center for all Cub Scouts and their families and/or leaders to experience together. Non-Scout siblings are invited to participate in all activities (some age restrictions may apply). More details will follow soon.
Darden Gala
November 4
Save the date for the 2023 Darden Gala: November 4, 2023 at the Westin Virginia Beach Town Center!
The Darden Gala is an annual fundraising event for Tidewater Council, Boy Scouts of America. Each year, Tidewater Council bestows the “Scouter Citizen of the Year Award” to deserving individuals who exemplify public service in the community.
More information is coming soon!
Wood Badge
April 12-14 and May 4-5, 2024
Wood Badge is an exciting, action-packed program designed for councils to provide adult members with leadership skills and experience they can use in their Scouting positions and in other situations demanding leadership of self and others. Lord Baden-Powell originally designed it so that Scouters could learn, in as practical a way as possible, the skills and methods of Scouting. It is first and foremost, learning by doing.
Wood Badge has evolved over the years into the core leadership skills training course for the BSA. The Wood Badge course focuses on strengthening every volunteer’s ability to work with and lead groups of youth and adults and is less focused on outdoor skills, which are more effectively addressed in other courses.
News
Free Tables
Free tables are available!
These large, heavy tables are 3′ x 8′. If interested, please contact Wes Sherman at 757-524-0022 or William.Sherman@scouting.org.
2023 BSA National Registration Fees
Effective August 1, 2023, the National Council of the Boy Scouts of America will implement the following national membership fees:
- $80 per year for youth participants in Cub Scouts, Scouts BSA, Venturing, and Sea Scouting (Increase of $5) – Paid annually by the member
- $25 one-time joining fee for new youth participants in Cub Scouts, Scouts BSA, Venturing, and Sea Scouting (No change) – Paid by the member once upon joining
- $60 per year for adult volunteers (Increase of $15 will provide general liability insurance and enhanced background checks) – Paid annually by the member
- $50 per year for Exploring participants and leaders (Increase of $5) – Paid annually by the member
- $25 per year for Merit Badge Counselors (This new fee applies only for Merit Badge Counselors who do not hold another paid registration.) – Paid annually by the member
- $100 per year for the unit charter fee (No change) – Paid annually by the unit
- $15 per year for optional Scout Life magazine subscription (No change) – Paid annually by the member
Membership Renewal Process
Beginning August 1, 2023, all new youth and adult members will join for a 12-month membership cycle. New youth members of Cub Scouts, Scouts BSA, Venturing, and Sea Scouting will pay the full annual membership fee, the new-member joining fee, and, if desired, the Scout Life subscription fee to join Scouting. New adults and members of Exploring will pay the full annual membership fee and, if desired, the Scout Life subscription fee to join.
New members (who register on or after August 1, 2023) will then renew their membership annually on the anniversary month of joining.
Beginning August 1, 2023, all youth and adult membership renewals will be for a 12-month membership cycle. The 2024 charter renewal process will remain unchanged.
Merit Badge Counselors
Beginning on August 1, 2023, merit badge counselors who are not registered as adult leaders in a unit will pay a $25 fee upon registration, and then annually thereafter. Merit badge counselors are not registered in a unit position and therefore are not allowed to attend overnight Scouting activities/events.
Merit Badge Counselors are part of a robust, diverse network of knowledgeable subject-matter experts. Each counselor receives training and screening to support effective communication techniques and the youth protection guidance of the Boy Scouts of America. The BSA merit badge program is an unparalleled resource for young people to glean from a vast, relevant pool of experience and expertise of local industry leaders, institutional partners, and community supporters. The merit badge program is an instrumental component of BSA’s mission to prepare young people to make moral, ethical, and productive members of society.
Council Program Fees
All fees listed above are paid to the National Council of the Boy Scouts of America.
Despite the challenges of increasing costs, Tidewater Council is pleased to announce that council program fee for 2024 will remain at $24 per member. Thank you to Friends of Scouting donors and product sales-participating Scouts and units, who enable Tidewater Council to keep the costs for Scouting families as low as possible.
Council program fees will be billed to units annually in December, with payment due by January 31. The council program fee is billed once per member annually to their primary unit. If a member is registered in multiple units, they will only be charged one annual council program fee.
Tidewater Council recognizes the increased costs of Scouting for new youth, who are charged the new-member joining fee. As such, new youth who join on or after August 1, 2023 and pay the new-member joining fee will not be charged the council program fees for 2024.
Role of the Unit
The 2024 charter renewal process will remain unchanged. During annual rechartering in December 2023, units will be responsible for payment of the unit charter fee, annual registration fees for renewing members, and for payment of the council program fee for youth and adult members.
During the rechartering process, units will be able to delete members who are no longer active in the unit, so as not to pay council program fees for previous members.
Units will still be able to raise money through product sales and choose to pay annual membership renewal fees and council program fees for all members, or they may choose to have members pay all or part of such annual fees.
Units will receive timely email notifications for members who need to renew their registration and for members who have renewed their registration on time. Member registration status will also be reported in My.Scouting.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Who pays the council program fee?
A: For the 2024 renewal:
• Youth members of Cub Scouting, Scouts BSA, Venturing, and Sea Scouting who registered on or before July 31, 2023
• Adult leaders
Q: Who does NOT pay the council program fee?
A: For the 2024 renewal:
• Youth members of Cub Scouting, Scouts BSA, Venturing, and Sea Scouting who registered on or after August 1, 2023 and paid the new-member joining fee
• Members of Exploring or ScoutReach programs
• Merit badge counselors who are not registered in another leadership role
Q: Will membership fees be prorated?
A: No, there will not be any prorated fees. All new members and all renewals will be on a 12-month membership renewal.
Q: When will the new annual membership fee be implemented?
A: Starting August 1, 2023, any new member or renewing member will pay the non-prorated registration fee.
Q: We want all of our members to renew in December each year, can we still do that?
A: No, the membership renewal will be in the month the person joined.
Q: How will membership renewal work?
A: All members will be sent an email 60 days out from their anniversary month. Members will be reminded of their membership expiring and can opt-out or renew their membership. Units may still choose to pay the annual registration fee for their members.
Q: Will units and individuals be notified when their registration is dropped?
A: Yes, if a registration is not paid, a notification will be sent to the individual/parent and to the unit indicating that a member has been dropped.
Q: Are merit badge counselors now required to pay for membership?
A: Yes, merit badge counselors are required to register, take Youth Protection Training, and pay an annual $25 fee. Each counselor receives training and screening to support effective communication techniques and the youth protection guidance of the Boy Scouts of America. Merit badge counselors are not registered in a unit position and therefore are not allowed to attend overnight Scouting activities/events.
Q: Does a merit badge counselor qualify as a unit position?
A: No, merit badge counselor is a district position, not a unit position. If a merit badge counselor wants to participate in unit and camp overnight activities, they must be registered in a qualified unit position.
Q: Can someone register as a merit badge counselor for $25, and then multiple as an Assistant Scoutmaster for free?
A: No, an adult must register annually in a qualified unit position (such as Assistant Scoutmaster) for the $60 rate, and then they can “multiple” as a merit badge counselor without paying an additional $25 fee.
Q: Is financial assistance available?
A: Yes, please contact the district executive for information on applying for need-based financial assistance.
Popcorn
Looking for a way to fund an awesome program for your Scouts? The annual Popcorn Sale is here to help!
Five Things Your Unit Should Be Doing in August
- Start selling online at prpopcornstore.com. If you do not know your Scout’s Seller ID, please contact the Unit Popcorn Kernel.
- Sign up here to help with the first delivery on Thursday, August 3.
- If your unit placed an order and cannot help with the delivery, sign up for a pick-up time on Friday, August 4 or Saturday, August 5.
- If your unit needs additional product, schedule an interim appointment here to come in on Wednesday, August 9.
- Place the unit’s next popcorn order by Monday, August 21.
- Sell, sell, sell!
Getting Started
It is not too late for your unit to participate in the 2023 Popcorn Sale! To get started:
- Read the Popcorn Guide.
- Sign up for the sale at pecatonicariverpopcorn.com using Council Key 596TWC.
- Set sales goals.
- Hold a unit kick-off. Contact your district executive to get sales materials and a tasting kit.
- Watch the recorded Popcorn Training at TidewaterBSA.com/2023popcornsale.
- Contact your District Popcorn Kernel for help getting started.
Resources
Did your unit miss Popcorn Training? You can view the recording on the Popcorn Sale webpage. Make sure to review the 2023 Popcorn Guide while you’re there too!
Do you need help with any aspect of the sale? We have a great team of District Popcorn Kernels who are here to help you! You can find their contact information here.
Changes to Cub Scout Pack Overnight Camping
Effective September 1, 2023, Cub Scout packs who are conducting their own overnight camping activity may now camp up to two consecutive nights. Cub Scout packs who are conducting their own overnight camping activities must continue to have at least one registered adult leader who is trained in Basic Adult Leader Outdoor Orientation (BALOO), oversees the planning, and is in attendance for the pack campout. This updated policy also applies to Webelos and Arrow of Light dens who may conduct den coordinated campouts. The policy will be updated in the Guide to Safe Scouting and other resources on September 1. An updated version of the BALOO training will also be released at this time.
Remember that Cub Scout camping is limited to the council’s designated locations with appropriate facilities. Find locations approved for Cub Scout camping at TidewaterBSA.com/approved-cub-camping.
For additional information regarding Cub Scout camping, including required youth protection policies, please review the Guide to Safe Scouting.
Scout Shop
As we near summer’s end and get ready for a busy fall season, a few reminders can help customers to plan ahead of time and have a great shopping experience.
Uniform Sale
This year’s annual uniform sale runs from August 1 through October 28. Buy a uniform shirt and bottoms (from the same program) and get 10% off the bottoms. Bottoms include zip-off pants, rollup pants, shorts, and skorts. For customers purchasing a Lion uniform, the Lion T-shirt IS the uniform top. Please note: The sale does NOT apply to clearance items.
Shop Now
Shop now, if possible, instead of waiting until September, especially for awards earned during Cub Scout Day Camp or Resident Camp. Customers who need to update a uniform with appropriate neckerchiefs, slides, caps, and books will find shopping quicker and easier with an uncrowded store. New recruits can take advantage of the uniform sale with better customer service in August.
Update Store Accounts
Make your unit’s fall shopping experiences easier by updating the unit Scout Shop account in August. Add new authorized account users and remove anyone who is no longer affiliated with the unit. If you need a new authorization form, you may pick one up at the Scout Shop or email polly.fugate@scouting.org.
Uniform Price Lists
Uniform price lists are available on the front table in the Scout Shop or by emailing the Scout Shop Manager at polly.fugate@scouting.org. Besides the current uniform prices for Lions, Cub Scouts, and Scouts, it lists all the normal prices for accessories and handbooks, plus the Scout Shop’s hours, phone, and email.
Rank Tees
Rank tees for Cub Scouts should be restocked by mid-August. Priced at $12.99, these cotton T-shirts are a good value. Each color coordinates with the rank:
- Orange: Tiger
- Red: Wolf
- Light Blue: Bear
- Dark Green: Webelos
Because we carry these T-shirts on a regular basis, they have become a staple item for each rank.
Hats Off to Scouting!
Hats off to our Scouting program! If you’re in the market for a new hat, we have a variety of non-uniform caps to choose from for $24.99 each.
Shipping
Shipping by USPS will continue to be available. Our regular shipping days are Wednesdays and Fridays. Customers may phone in an order or email (polly.fugate@scouting.org). We can call for a VISA or Mastercard number once the order is totaled, including shipping.
Scout Shop Hours
Our next holiday closing is September 2-4 for Labor Day 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.
Concussions
A concussion, also known as a traumatic brain injury (TBI), is an injury that results from a blow to the head causing an alteration of brain function. Concussions may also be due to falls or blows to the body that cause the brain to move quickly back and forth.
Concussions are difficult to diagnose and are often called “invisible injuries.” It is important to note that in 90 percent of all youth-related concussions, there is no loss of consciousness. Most people with concussions recover quickly and fully, but for some the symptoms can last for days, weeks, or longer. Recovery may be slower among young children and teenagers. Those who have had a concussion in the past are at greater risk for another one, and recovery may take longer the second time.
High Adventure Treks in 2024 and 2025
Many units regularly pack yearly schedules with outings and activities that keep youth coming back and wanting more. Units provide many different activities which appeal to a variety of age groups. Youth ages 11-13 crave and need activities that deliver basic skills, such as camping. Youth ages 14-17 are looking for more robust adventures that challenge their physical abilities, as well as their minds. Additionally, older Scouts are looking for activities which become available as they mature.
To help older youth keep their interest in Scouting, the Council High Adventure Committee has produced a long-range calendar outlining longer (5+ days) high adventure activities. To assist units, the council offers these longer treks on a council contingent basis. The High Adventure Committee is soliciting youth and units’ interest in these treks for 2024 and 2025. Units and individuals with an interest in these activities should contact Jeffreyirving@cox.net or bill.lawrence2@scouting.org for more information. The first two treks are:
Okpik Winter Program at Northern Tier: December 2024
Okpik is the premier winter camping program in the Boy Scouts of America. The Charles L. Sommers Canoe Base in Minnesota is the site of the Boy Scouts of America’s National Cold Weather Camping Development Center. All trips are fully outfitted and provisioned, including almost all the personal gear necessary to stay warm in the winter. A highly trained staff member, called an Interpreter, accompanies all crews on their trek.
This activity is scheduled around winter break (December 2024). Northern Tier has a wide range of winter treks. Crews can choose cabin stay programs, cross country skiing (which could include sleeping one night on a frozen lake), or dog sledding (which includes living with and caring for the sled dogs).
Learn to never fear the cold again while experiencing all the Great North Woods have to offer. The cost varies with the activity the crew chooses, but is estimated around $2,000 per person.
Backpacking at Philmont Scout Ranch: Summer 2025
Philmont Scout Ranch, the Boy Scouts of America’s largest National High Adventure Base, challenges Scouts and Venturers with more than 214 square miles of rugged northern New Mexico wilderness. Backpacking treks, horseback cavalcades, and training and service programs offer young people many ways to experience this legendary country.
Tidewater Council is planning a trek to Philmont during summer 2025. Costs for 2025 are not yet available, but, for reference, the fee for the 2022 council contingent trek to Philmont was around $2,300 per person.
Participants who sign up for either trek must make a $250 deposit.
In succeeding years, Tidewater Council-offered contingents will include Sea Base in Florida and The Summit in West Virginia.
Members of the High Adventure Committee are available to assist individuals and units in developing and conducting long (5+ days) high adventure treks. Contact Jeffreyirving@cox.net or bill.lawrence2@scouting.org.
Journey to Excellence
Summer is a good time for units to connect with the unit commissioner and check on Journey to Excellence progress. What does the unit need to concentrate on to achieve its goals? There are several resources available at scouting.org/awards/journey-to-excellence.
Areas for Improvement
- Planning and Budgeting: Has the unit planned the 2023-24 program year and created a budget to support it?
- Membership: The goal is growth. Have leaders sat down with either the district membership chair or district executive to plan fall recruiting?
- Advancement: Has every youth advanced at least one rank? If not, what might help them?
- Service Projects: Is the unit entering service projects into Internet Advancement 2.0?
- Training: Have all leaders completed the online training for their position? Upcoming in-person courses can be found here.
Awards Spotlight
NESA Scholarships
The National Eagle Scout Association (NESA) is proud to offer scholarships that can help Eagle Scouts continue their educational adventures.
Eagle Scouts must be members of NESA to apply. The application portal will be open December 1, 2023 through January 31, 2024 for Eagle Scouts who had their board of review on or before January 24, 2024. Visit nesa.org/scholarships for more information and eligibility criteria.
Sea Scout Long Cruise Award
The Long Cruise Award recognizes youth and adult members of a Sea Scout Ship who complete an on-the-water activity over a two-week period or a series of weekends or overnight cruises equal to 14 days. Additional long cruises are recognized with arcs around the badge.
A Sea Scout must be Ordinary rank before they can start recording cruising time for the Long Cruise badge. An adult leader may qualify for the badge without qualifying for Ordinary rank.
Complete Angler Recognition
The BSA Complete Angler Recognition honors well-rounded youth anglers. To earn the award, Scouts must earn the three fishing-related merit badges (Fishing, Fly Fishing, and Fish and Wildlife Management) and complete one of four fishing-related projects.
For more information on Scouting’s fishing programs, visit scouting.org/outdoor-programs/fishing.
Military Outstanding Volunteer Service Medal
The Military Outstanding Volunteer Service Medal (MOVSM) recognizes members of the armed forces (active duty, reserve, and National Guard) who perform outstanding volunteer community service of a sustained, direct, and consequential nature. The MOVSM is intended to recognize exceptional community support over time and not a single act or achievement.
Service members work with their chain of command to be submitted for the award. If the command requests a letter from the council about the leader’s volunteer service, please contact the district executive.
Scouters who receive the MOVSM can wear the Community Organization Award on their Scouting uniform. Bring a copy of the MOVSM citation to the Scout Shop when coming to purchase the knot.
Rank Advancement for Venturers and Sea Scouts
Any Venturer or Sea Scout who has achieved the First Class rank as a member of Scouts BSA may, up to their 18th birthday, continue advancement toward the Star, Life, and Eagle Scout ranks, as well as Eagle Palms. Qualified Venturers and Sea Scouts must meet the requirements as prescribed in the official Scouts BSA handbooks and the Scouts BSA Requirements book.
Venturers may fulfill leadership requirements by serving as president, vice president, secretary, treasurer, den chief, historian, guide, quartermaster, chaplain aide, or outdoor ethics guide.
Sea Scouts may fulfill leadership requirements by serving as boatswain, boatswain’s mate, purser, yeoman, storekeeper, crew leader, media specialist, specialist, den chief, or chaplain aide.
The Crew Advisor or Sea Scout Skipper will conduct the unit leader conference. As the Venturer or Sea Scout fulfills requirements for the Star and Life ranks, a board of review must be conducted by the crew or ship committee, according to the procedures established by the National Council as published in the Guide to Advancement. Eagle Scout boards of review are conducted in accordance with the Guide to Advancement and procedures established by the local council.
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 2023 until June 2024. Read bios of students currently seeking Scouting exchange families here.
If interested in hosting or learning more, contact Tracy Mabry, North East Regional Director of International Experience at t.mabry@international-experience.net, 757-427-1964, or 808-372-2597
Cub Scout Recruiting
Race to Scouting with Cub Scouts this fall!
The Membership Committee (and Scoutcar driver Bobby Katz) are developing great resources to help recruit new Cub Scouts this fall.
District executives will reach out to each Cub Scout pack to inform them about fall recruiting resources and to help build each pack’s custom recruiting plan.
Community Engagement
National Night Out: August 1
National Night Out is an annual community-building campaign that promotes police-community partnerships and neighborhood camaraderie. Check with local civic groups, neighborhood organizations, and chartered organizations for opportunities for Scouting units to get involved. This is a great way for Scouts to be involved citizens in the community, and for units to show off what Scouting has to offer!
VBCPS Back-to-School Care Fair: August 12
Virginia Beach City Public Schools will host the Back-to-School Care Fair on Saturday, August 12 from 10 AM – 2 PM at the Virginia Beach Convention Center. Tidewater Council will participate as one of the community partners. If interested in assisting with recruitment and activities, please contact Pam Samples, Princess Anne District Membership Chair, at pasamp42@gmail.com.
Dancing with the Hampton Roads Celebrity Stars: August 19
Dancing with the Hampton Roads Celebrity Stars is an annual fundraising event that benefits the Virginia Musical Theater. Like the hit TV show, twenty-four local contestants with limited or no dance experience will be paired with a professional to perform in front of a live audience.
Tidewater Council’s own Vice President of Finance, Ron Kilmer, will be one of the celebrity contestants!
Tickets are available at hrcelebritystars.com. Please vote for Ron as your favorite dancer when booking your admission!
International Coastal Cleanup Day: September 16
International Coastal Cleanup Day (ICCD) is one of the world’s largest annual preservation and protection events and volunteer efforts for the ocean, waves, and beaches.
If interested in participating in a cleanup event at the 17th Street Oceanfront Entertainment Park on Saturday, September 16, visit virginiaaquarium.com/support/one-day-volunteering.
September Program Ideas
- National Preparedness Month: Each September, National Preparedness Month is a time to raise awareness about the importance of preparing for disasters and emergencies. To help Scouts learn to Be Prepared:
- Build first aid kits
- Visit a local fire department or rescue squad
- Visit ready.gov/kids for games and more youth-appropriate preparedness activities
- National Service Dog Month: Learn more about these awesome animals and how they help people with disabilities.
- National Translation Month: Celebrate communication in a diverse world. Youth and adults who speak a foreign language can earn the Interpreter Strip.
- Library Card Sign-Up Month: Bring Scouts to a local library to share community resources and promote literacy.
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.
VBthrive
Virginia Beach residents, VBthrive is an economic mobility program offering coaching and resources for mentoring, housing, employment and education, financial management, and wellbeing.
Help Wanted
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.
Additional Volunteer Opportunities
Visit our Volunteer with Local Scouting webpage for information on additional volunteer opportunities.
Scouts in Action
Congratulations to Chase O. from Pack 125, who won the top prize in the 2023 Camp Cards sale: an Oculus Quest!
Thank you to everyone who supported our Scouts in the 2023 Camp Cards fundraiser! As of July 31, 2023, our Scouts and units sold more than $28,000 in Camp Cards. That means units earned more than $14,000 in commissions, to support local Scouting programs and activities.
Scouts’ prizes and awards will be distributed at September roundtables.
Congratulations to Karina C. of Troop 5364!
In the 2022-2023 Show Your Voice PTA Reflections program, Karina’s artwork titled “Adventure Ahead in Boy Scouts” achieved first place for Outstanding Interpretation in the state of Virginia. Karina traveled to Richmond, VA in May to receive her award. Subsequently, her artwork advanced to the national level, where she was honored with a third place national Award of Merit and bronze medallion.
The theme Show Your Voice inspired Karina to capture a personal moment in her life. Through her camera lens, Karina appears in her Scouts BSA uniform and her reflection captured in the side mirror of the car. Following her previous expedition with Troop 5364 to hike the challenging Old Rag Mountain in Shenandoah National Park, this image symbolizes her readiness to embark on her next Scouting adventure.
Through her art and her actions, Karina encourages girls everywhere to embrace their voices, celebrate their passions, and venture into the world of Scouting with confidence. Through her troop’s endeavors, they explore new places, give back to the community, and build character – forging lifelong friendships and experiences along the way.
As one of the founding members of Troop 5364, Karina has an adventurous spirit and a belief in the limitless potential of girls in Scouting. Karina continues to dream of even more remarkable journeys ahead and hopes that her art will inspire and uplift others in pursuit of adventure.
On July 11, Scouts from Troop 162 picked 1,666 pounds of sweet corn, loaded it onto three trucks, and delivered the fresh produce to the Food Bank of the Albemarle. Way to go!
Congratulations to Matt M. of Troop 364 and his family – his parents, Elizabeth and Michael, and the family dogs, Max and Luke, on being awarded Lynnhaven River NOW‘s Pearl Home of the Quarter.
Lynnhaven River NOW is a Virginia Beach nonprofit that works toward clean and healthy waterways. Matt first learned about LRNow through Scouting, when his troop put together oyster cages for the Chesapeake Bay Foundation at the Brock Environmental Center. Since that experience five years ago, Matt and Elizabeth have been volunteering with LRNow’s Pearl Home program.
The Pearl Home program recognizes residents for taking steps to protect the environment and local waterways, such as recycling, using reusable water bottles, turning off lights when they aren’t in use, and more.
Thank you to Matt, Elizabeth, Michael, Max, and Luke on doing your part for the environment and for serving as ambassadors for a sustainable community!
International Scouting Representative Laura Bussiere is representing Tidewater Council at Kander 100, a once-in-a-lifetime Jamboree for young people from around the world held at Kandersteg International Scout Centre in the heart of the Swiss Alps. There are more than 1,600 Scouts present, representing 62 countries and National Scout Organizations.
Laura had the honor of being the US flag bearer at the Kander 100 opening ceremony. She also participated in a Q&A session in the World Organization of the Scout Movement (WOSM) Global Goals Exhibit, and will be guiding mountain hikes for much of the event. Great job, Laura!
Albemarle District Scouts, Scouters, and families had fun at Scout Night with the Edenton Steamers on July 15. Scouts kicked off the evening by participating in the opening ceremonies, and went on to watch a decisive 13-3 victory by the home team!
Tidewater Council Scouts and Scouters enjoyed the Tzofim Friendship Caravan Community Concert at the Simon Family JCC on July 28. The Tzofim (Israeli Scouts) put on a fun-filled and engaging performance!
We want to hear from you! Send stories, photos, and videos of your Scouts in action to alison.harrison@scouting.org (with parental permission, of course).
