Table of Contents
Friends of Scouting
Friends of Scouting is Tidewater Council’s annual giving campaign. The Friends of Scouting campaign provides 21% of the council’s annual budget – that means more than a fifth of every dollar in the council budget comes from the generosity of Scouting families, alumni, and community supporters. Without this funding, Tidewater Council could not provide the resources necessary for a quality, adventure-filled Scouting program.
All Friends of Scouting donations stay local to support families in northeastern North Carolina and southeastern Virginia. You can fill out a Friends of Scouting pledge card and email it to shannon.foster@scouting.org or donate using the button below:
Campaign progress as of February 1, 2022:
Each district shares a portion of the overall goal.
Progress as of February 1, 2022:
Has your unit scheduled its 2022 Friends of Scouting presentation? It is a great opportunity to hear about some of the council’s highlights and accomplishments over the past year, and to illustrate to families how the program is funded. All units that hold a Friends of Scouting presentation will receive a special ribbon for their unit flag. Contact your district executive to schedule your presentation.
Upcoming Events
Silver Beaver Nomination Deadline
February 5
The Silver Beaver Award is the council-level distinguished service award of the Boy Scouts of America. Recipients of this award are registered Scouters who have made an impact on the lives of youth through service given at the council-level.
To nominate a worthy Scouter, please submit the nomination form to bobwhite433@cox.net and alison.harrison@scouting.org.
Scouting for Food 2022
February 5-13
It is not too late to sign-up and participate!
Scouting for Food takes place on two consecutive weekends. On the first weekend (February 5-6), Scouts distribute door hangers to let their neighbors know about the drive. On the second weekend (February 12-13), Scouts revisit those houses to pick up bags full of canned food, cereal, pasta, peanut butter, juice, and other nonperishable items.
The food is delivered to families in need through your chartered organization’s food pantry, through the Foodbank of Southeastern Virginia and the Eastern Shore, or through the Food Bank of the Albemarle. This year, we will also have the Foodbank collection truck at the Mary Jayne Breeden Council Service Center on Sunday, February 13 from 11 AM to 3 PM to accept dropped-off collections. Drop-off at the council will only be accepted at the designated time.
The first step in getting your unit involved in a food drive is to find a Scouting for Food Chair – someone who will organize and promote the project and be a liaison between your unit and district. Once that person is identified, it is easy to enlist your unit’s youth and adult leaders to participate. Please sign your unit up at 247scouting.com/forms/596-SFF2022. Units can print door hangers at their convenience to leave at locations where they would like to collect donations.
If you have any questions, contact Tracy McGlothian, Scouting for Food Chairperson, Tidewater Council BSA, at Tracy@mtolivetgroup.com.
Three Rivers Merit Badge University
February 12
Three Rivers District invites you to Merit Badge University at Deep Creek Baptist. This is a great opportunity for Scouts to gain new skills and earn merit badges (some of which are not typically offered at summer camps).
This event is open to all registered Scouts BSA, Venturers, and Sea Scouts. Register today!
Scouts BSA Adult Leader Training
February 12
Adult leaders have the opportunity to participate in training as part of the Three Rivers Merit Badge University at Deep Creek Baptist Church. The training team will offer:
American Red Cross Pint-Size Hero Blood Drive
February 16
Did you know that one donation of blood can save up to three lives? Or that every two seconds, someone in the U.S. needs blood?
Tidewater Council is partnering with the American Red Cross to host a blood drive through the Pint-Size Hero program. This program introduces youth to the components of blood and the importance of blood donation. Scouts have the opportunity to demonstrate leadership by recruiting blood donors, hosting drives, and engaging in the community. Each Scout who recruits a donor will receive an American Red Cross braided bracelet.
WHEN:
Wednesday, February 16, 2022
WHERE:
Tidewater Council
Mary Jayne Breeden Council Service Center
1032 Heatherwood Drive
Virginia Beach, VA 23455
TIME:
1-6 PM
MAKE AN APPOINTMENT:
There are two easy ways to schedule your appointment:
1. Visit redcrossblood.org and use the sponsor code “TidewaterBSA” in the “Find a Blood Drive” field.
2. Make your appointment on the American Red Cross Blood Donor App.
CONTACT:
Nicole Moga
704-564-5565
Nmoga149@yahoo.com
Albemarle District Freezoree
February 18-20
Out of an abundance of caution, the Freezoree was postponed. SO THERE’S STILL TIME TO SIGN-UP! We will be offering the same great program, just a different date.
Winter Weekend is a chance to join in one of the oldest traditions in Boy Scouts of America – coming together as a district for Scouting. District gatherings provide an opportunity for fun, friendship, and fellowship. We would love for you to come join the fun and excitement of this year’s Winter Weekend.
Join us February 18-20 at Maple Commerce Park, Barco, NC. All Tidewater Council troops, crews, and ships are welcome to attend. Registration is open on Black Pug.
This weekend, the Scouts have the option to participate in a couple district-sponsored winter-themed activities. The majority of time, troops will focus on their needs and try to stay warm. Coffee and hot cocoa will be provided during the Saturday morning and afternoon activities to any Scout or Scouter who has their own mug (no cups will be provided).
The Scout Oath and Law will govern the behavior of all participants during this weekend. The principles of Leave No Trace should be always practiced.
Camp Card Training
February 22 and February 24
The 2022 Camp Card Sale is coming soon to help Scouts earn their way to the adventures of Scouting. Camp Cards are cards that offer valuable discounts to local retailers. Scouts sell the cards to family, friends, neighbors, and community members. Units earn a sales commission, which they can use to pay for camping adventures.
To Be Prepared for the sale, each unit is requested to send a representative to one of two upcoming training sessions. Both trainings will be offered virtually via Zoom. The Zoom credentials can be found in the 2022 Camp Card Guide.
- Tuesday, February 22 at 7 PM
- Thursday, February 24 at 7 PM
Virginia Beach Trade-O-Ree
February 25-26
Buy, sell, and trade Scouting collectible memorabilia at the 2022 Virginia Beach Trade-O-Ree. Check out the event flyer for more information.
VFW Scout of the Year Nominations Due
March 1
Annually, the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States awards three Scouts who have achieved the highest rank in their Scouting program and who exemplify the qualities of that rank. For members of the BSA, that means the Scout is a recipient of the Eagle Scout Award, Venture Summit Award, or Sea Scout Quartermaster Award. Scouts must be registered, active members of their troop, crew, or ship, and must demonstrate exemplary citizenship in school, Scouting, and community.
There is no minimum age requirement for applicants as long as all other eligibility criteria has been met. The maximum age requirement for applicants is 18 years old. If an applicant reaches their 18th birthday during the nomination year, they remain eligible as long as they are still in high school at the time of the submission deadline. Furthermore, the student does not have to be a military dependent, nor do they need to be related to a VFW or VFW Auxiliary member to participate in this program.
Awards are:
- $5,000 1st place National scholarship
- $3,000 2nd place National scholarship
- $1,000 3rd place National scholarship
To apply, submit:
- Photograph of the Scout
- School Participation Record
- Scouting Record
- Community Service Record
- Letters of Recommendation
- Completed Entry Form
Complete rules and eligibility requirements can be found here. For questions, contact 816-756-3390 ext. 6155 during normal business hours, Monday through Friday, or email scouting@vfw.org. The VFW Scout of the Year Award application deadline is March 1, 2022.
Pinewood Derby
March - April
Get your engines ready – it is Pinewood Derby season!
What is a Pinewood Derby? The Pinewood Derby is one of the most popular and successful family activities in Cub Scouting. Cub Scouts design and build their own small wooden cars, with some help from their families. Then they race their cars in competition, down a gravity-powered track.
Win or lose, Cub Scouts will take pride in having done their best. Cub Scouts learn craft skills, STEM principles, the rules of fair play, and good sportsmanship—things they will remember for life.
You can view the 2022 Pinewood Derby Rules & Procedures for Tidewater Council here. Scouts must make a new car each year.
Albemarle District Pinewood Derby: March 5
Get ready to rumble at the Albemarle District Pinewood Derby on March 5 at 10 AM. All racers of each rank from every pack in Albemarle District are eligible to race. Arrows of Light (AOL) who have just bridged to a troop are still eligible. Family Fun Run races are an open class that will race after the qualified racers. The entry fee for qualified pack racers is $8.50 per car. Family racers are $10 per car (no trophies for family racers; this is for bragging rights only).
Registration is available on Black Pug. Late registration starts February 20 and the deadline to register is Friday, March 4 at 5 PM.
Bayside District Pinewood Derby: March 5
The top three finishers of each rank from every pack in Bayside District are eligible to race in the Bayside District Pinewood Derby.
Three Rivers District Pinewood Derby: March 5
Save the date for the Three Rivers District Pinewood Derby! The entry fee will be $8.50 per car. Registration is coming soon, and will close on February 26. For questions, please contact Paul Hunter at cubmaster246@gmail.com.
Princess Anne District Pinewood Derby: March 26
Save the date for the Princess Anne District Pinewood Derby! More information is coming soon. For questions, please contact Andrew Huddle at Pack496vb@gmail.com or Adam Harlan at gunner0879@mac.com.
Council Pinewood Derby: April 9
Scouts who qualify in the top three of their class at the district level will qualify for the council derby. We hope to see you there!
Den Chief Training
March 5
Den Chief Training combines fun and enjoyment with an excellent character‐building experience. Participants learn leadership, organization, and, most importantly, how to work with Cub Scouts.
The training is designed for current and aspiring den chiefs. Adults who work with den chiefs are encouraged to attend as well; den leaders will benefit from learning about the den chief role and how den chiefs can best support the den.
Join us at the Mary Jayne Breeden Council Service Center on March 5 for the next Den Chief Training.
2022 Tidewater Council Living Legends Nominations Due
March 5
Nominations are now open for 2022 Tidewater Council Living Legends.
Each year, Tidewater Council recognizes those volunteers who continue to provide significant leadership, service, and support to Scouting over many years and in many roles, and who continue serving after they may have been recognized in other traditional ways (Silver Beaver, Award of Merit, etc.). Help to acknowledge those volunteers for their continued contributions before their council peers at the Tidewater Council Annual Recognition Banquet. Provide inspiration for others to also continue their valued service to Scouting.
Nomination forms must be received no later than Saturday, March 5, 2022 to be considered.
New Member Coordinator Training
March 22
Calling all Cubmasters and Committee Chairs-
Do you find that you are being pulled in 15 different directions? Wouldn’t it be nice to have an extra set of hands? Someone to follow up on those new leads or help a new family with their questions? The three-word solution is: New Member Coordinator.
Let us show you how this position can be an asset to your unit and make your life a whole lot easier. We will also be showing new key 3’s how to work Invitation Manager to help grow your unit. If you have a person in mind or would like to learn more about this position and Invitation Manager, this evening is for you.
Join us on March 22 from 6:30-8:00 PM at the Mary Jayne Breeden Council Service Center, 1032 Heatherwood Drive, Virginia Beach, VA 23455. No registration is necessary. For questions, please contact Pam Samples at pasamp42@gmail.com or Rich Becker at Richard.Becker@scouting.org.
Tidewater Council Annual Recognition Banquet
March 24
The Annual Recognition Banquet is held each year to recognize Eagle Scouts and the volunteers of Tidewater Council. Some of the highlights of the evening will be the presentation of the Kent Glover 2021 Class of Eagle Scouts, Silver Beaver Awards, and NESA Outstanding Eagle Scout Awards. The evening will start with dinner served by our own Blue Heron Lodge cook crew. This will be a night of food and fellowship you will not want to miss. Join us on March 24, 2022 at 6 PM at the Khedive Shrine Center, 645 Woodlake Drive, Chesapeake, VA. Registration is open on Black Pug.
Bayside District Recognition Breakfast
March 26
Bayside District will recognize adult volunteers for their outstanding service in Scouting for 2021 with a Lumberjack Pancake Breakfast!
This breakfast event will include recognition of District Award winners and District Award of Merit recipients. Bring your friends and family for a morning of food, fun, and fellowship.
Albemarle District Spring Camporee
April 1-3
It’s time to “Show Your Know-How” of your Scout skills at Albemarle District’s Spring Camporee. All troops, crews, and ships are invited to join us for some patrol and unit competition. The Albemarle Camporee will ensure patrols and new Scouts are working through the four phases of team development and will recognize Honor Campers with an OA Callout Ceremony. Mark your calendar and plan to join us on the weekend of April 1-3 at the Currituck County Rural Center, 184 Milburn Sawyer Road, Powells Point, NC 27966. Details and registration are coming soon.
Annual Leadership Breakfast
April 6
Join us for the Annual Leadership Breakfast on Wednesday, April 6, 2022 at 7:15 AM at the Westin Town Center, 4535 Commerce Street, Virginia Beach, VA 23462.
Those in attendance will have the opportunity to make a significant Friends of Scouting gift and to hear from keynote speaker Todd Huston, Distinguished Eagle Scout, amputee, author, world record holder, and inventor. With his journey of pain, determination, and adventure, including his expedition to the highest peaks in all 50 United States, he inspires others to overcome their own challenges.
To RSVP or inquire about sponsorship opportunities, please contact Susan Miley-Petrehn at susan.miley-petrehn@scouting.org or 757-284-0796.
Wood Badge
April 8-10 and April 30-May 1
Wood Badge is the preeminent Scouting leadership program for adult leaders. Wood Badge courses make Scouters better leaders by teaching advanced leadership skills, and by creating a bond amongst leaders working toward improving Scouting for all.
Attending Wood Badge is an amazing personal experience. Participants develop lasting friendships. The personal and professional skills learned at Wood Badge help Scouts, Scouting units, and even benefit participants in their careers.
Wood Badge Course NST15-596-22 will be held at Pipsico Scout Reservation on Friday, April 8 – Sunday, April 10 and Saturday, April 30 – Sunday, May 1, 2022. Participants must attend both weekends of the course activities to complete the practical phase of the training.
For more information, contact NST15-596-22 Course Director Jon McGlothian at 2022WoodBadge@gmail.com or your District Training Chairperson.
Cub Scout Family Camp
April 22-24
Cub Scouts and their families are invited to escape the indoors and experience a variety of activities during a fun-filled weekend at Pipsico Scout Reservation. Cub Scout Family Camping Weekends are an opportunity to get away from the busy buzz of the city for the weekend and enjoy some time in the great outdoors. Explore with nature walks, shooting sports, crafts, and fishing. To assist with campsite assignments, it is recommended that you register your entire pack at one time. Registration opens on February 14.
Wilderness/Remote First Aid
May 14-15
Wilderness first aid (WFA) refers to any training course that focuses on prevention, assessment, and treatment for an ill or injured person in a remote environment where definitive care by a physician and/or rapid transport is not readily available. WFA courses are intended for anyone planning a remote high adventure, from lay responders to medical professionals.
All four of the BSA high-adventure bases require at least one person per trek (two per trek at Philmont Scout Ranch) to be current in WFA through one of the BSA’s approved providers. Of course, having more participants trained in WFA skills is highly recommended for any high adventure or backcountry experience.
Tidewater Council’s next WFA course is scheduled for May 14-15. Current CPR/AED certification is required to attend this course.
Summer Camp at Pipsico
June 26 - July 23
Pipsico Scout Reservation offers Scouts and Scouters the opportunity to immerse themselves in a positive camping environment, at a beautiful property, with a friendly camp staff. Tidewater Council is proud to offer quality programs for everyone.
Week #1 – June 26 to July 2
Week #2 – July 3 to July 9
Week #3 – July 10 to July 16
Week #4 – July 17 to July 23
Summer Adventure Programs at Pipsico
Take your adventure to the next level! Looking for something a little bit different? Pipsico also offers three Summer Adventure Program opportunities. Each is operated in parallel with base camp, and was developed for more experienced Scouts.
- Sail Hampton Roads: A full week of sailing and nightly port visits on the James and Elizabeth Rivers
- SCUBA Camp: Earn “Open Water Diver” SCUBA Certification and your SCUBA Merit Badge
- PEX: Take your adventure to the next level with the adrenaline-fueled Pipsico Experience
Powder Horn
September 9-11 and September 16-18
Powder Horn is a resource course designed to introduce Scouting’s adults and youth to the exciting outdoor and high-adventure program possibilities for their unit. The ultimate goal is for the participants to leave the course with a list of ideas to help their program, along with the contacts and resources needed to implement them.
Participant Requirements
- Must be either:
- An adult registered in BSA, fully trained for their position
- A youth 14 years old (or 13 years old and have completed 8th grade) by the start of the course, AND have unit leader approval, AND have taken ILS for their unit type
- Must have completed and submitted training certificates for:
- Youth Protection Training
- Hazardous Weather
- Safety Afloat
- Safe Swim Defense
- Climb On Safely
- Must submit current, completed Annual Health and Medical Record (AHMR) Parts A, B, and C
- Must submit proof of swim classification (any level is accepted)
National Youth Leadership Training (NYLT)
November 11-13 and November 18-20
Every leader deserves a trained Scout! Youth aged 13 and above are eligible for BSA’s premier youth leadership training program, NYLT. This program is designed to help Scouts make the most of their leadership skills, to become the best leaders that they can.
The objectives of the course are to:
- Provide a toolbox of leadership skills
- Relate these skills to leading in their unit
- Instill knowledge and confidence to run the unit program
- Enhance the relationship between the Scout and the unit
- Share ideas and experiences with other Scouts
- Experience Scouting at its best
- Have fun!
The course will be held the weekends of November 11-13 and 18-20, 2022 at Pipsico Scout Reservation. If you have any questions, please contact the course director, James Carroll, at 596nylt@gmail.com.
2023 National Scout Jamboree
July 19-28, 2023
Scouting’s next big adventure is on the way July 19-28, 2023! The National Scout Jamboree is a gathering of thousands of members of the Boy Scouts of America.
Scouts BSA, Venturers, and Sea Scouts attending the Jamboree will enjoy more than five miles of zip line and challenge courses, 36 miles of mountain bike trails, and 13 acres of shooting sports ranges on a sprawling 10,600-acre site in West Virginia! There are also world class venues for white water rafting, kayaking, rock climbing, bouldering, ATVs, skateboarding, and BMX, as well as arena shows, treetop canopy tours, exhibit areas, patch trading, and more.
Tidewater Council is organizing a contingent to attend this 10-day ultimate experience. We are currently accepting youth sign ups for the limited spaces available. Adults who are interested in attending as leaders should contact Jeff Irving at jeffreyirving@cox.net.
News
Camp Projects
Camp Baker and Camp Moonyah Monthly Volunteer Work-Crew
Camp Baker and Camp Moonyah are rugged properties in Chesapeake, Virginia leased by Tidewater Council. Camp Baker is located on the Intercoastal Waterway, off Centerville Turnpike. Camp Moonyah is located in Deep Creek, off Greenwing Drive.
Ron Misfeldt manages and maintains both camps, and is currently assembling a volunteer work group to assist with camp maintenance. There will be one work date per month for each camp, and dates will vary.
Projects will include:
- Groundskeeping
- Mowing and trimming
- Tree work
- Clearing leaves
- Additional projects as needed
If interested, please contact Ron Misfeldt by email at mustangron@aol.com or via text message at 757-646-1384.
Busy Beavers at Pipsico
Pipsico Scout Reservation is Tidewater Council’s camp in Surry County, Virginia. Members of the Pipsico Busy Beavers work on camp projects at Pipsico on Wednesdays. Learn more about the Busy Beavers here.
Camp Maintenance Structures
Tidewater Council is looking to install non-permanent structures for storing maintenance equipment at both Camp Baker (size: 12′ x 20′) and Camp Moonyah (size: 10′ x 12′). The structures would be used to store grounds equipment, riding and push mowers, tools, and materials for future projects. We are seeking donations of either funding or materials and labor. For more information, contact Ron Misfeldt at mustangron@aol.com or via text message at 757-646-1384.
Scout Shop
The month of February comes with several exciting events!
Pinewood Derby
As Pinewood Derby races roll ahead this time of year, plan to make your pack event even more exciting! Racers will love the colorful 2022 Pinewood Derby patch ($1.79). Also available are:
- Participation Ribbons ($6.99/10 pack)
- Bronze, Silver, and Gold Lanyard Medals ($3.99 each)
- Red, White, and Blue Car Lanyard Medals ($2.99 each)
- Gold, Silver, and Bronze Trophies ($8.99 each)
Every racer can take something home for a great memory!
Scout Sunday
Scout Sunday is officially February 6 this year, even though some units may celebrate at other times during the month. The Scout Shop has Scout Sunday Program Covers for $13.99 (100 pack) and Scout Sunday Program Inserts for $7.99 (25 pack), which may be used with any church program. The inserts and program covers are not dated, so they can be saved for the next year if they are not all used. Don’t forget to award each participating Scout with the 2022 Scout Sunday patch ($3.49 each).
Blue & Gold Banquets
Cub Scout packs are also preparing for upcoming Blue & Gold celebrations to commemorate 92 years since the Cub Scout program began in 1930. Unfortunately, with supply issues, our National distributors were not able to get Blue & Gold patches for 2022, but we do have some undated Blue & Gold patches on our front table and some Cub Scout party goods in our stationery section to help make this celebration a fun time!
Arrow of Light Crossovers
This is also the time of year that many Arrows of Light crossover to new troops, so please make sure they have all the needed information for shopping. Is the pack or troop providing handbooks, neckerchiefs, slides, or shoulder loops? What color is the troop neckerchief? Do they need to purchase troop numbers, or does the unit have them custom made? These are just a few of the questions we can’t answer.
Shipping
We continue to ship orders as needed by USPS. Call us at 757-497-2688 or email polly.fugate@scouting.org. We will take your order, figure shipping costs, and return your call for a VISA or Mastercard number. All orders are taken to the post office for a tracking receipt.
Scout Shop Hours
During these winter months, please be aware of inclement weather and make sure we are open by calling, or by consulting our council Facebook page or website. Remember, if Virginia Beach City Public Schools are closed, we usually will be closed also.
Our next holiday closing will be April 15-16 for Easter weekend.
Blue Heron Lodge
Arrowmen, the time has come for us to renew our dues for the 2022 Service Year. You can pay your dues online here or at the Scout Shop using this form. It is incredibly important that you pay your dues, as it helps us support our program for Scouts throughout Hampton Roads and Northeastern North Carolina, as well as aiding our Lodge Performance. Thank you all for your dedication and support to Blue Heron Lodge.
Den Leaders Tips and Tricks
The BSA has produced a collection of videos with tips and tricks to help Cub Scout den leaders. Topics include:
- The New Den Leader Experience
- Rank Overviews
- Craft Tips
- The Buddy System
- The Marble Jar
- Scoutbook Hacks
- and many more!
The videos are available here.
Red Cross Youth Education Programs
The American Red Cross offers two programs for Cub Scout aged youth. Prepare with Pedro is for Lions through Wolves. The Pillowcase Project is for Bears through Arrow of Light. For both programs, Scouts receive a fun emergency preparedness item and an age-appropriate presentation about how to stay safe during a disaster.
To schedule these presentations for your dens, contact Danielle Englund at 540-676-5316.
Retiring Elective Cub Scout Adventures
Every year, Cub Scout Adventures are reviewed to identify trends and determine interests of youth, den leaders, and Cub Scout families. In an ongoing effort to keep the Cub Scouting Adventure program relevant to today’s families, Cub Scout elective Adventures are reviewed for both content and popularity.
The most recent review has identified 19 elective Adventures that do not meet the standards of youth and den leader engagement, with the lowermost being earned by less than 3% percent of eligible youth. These elective Adventures will be retired effective May 31, 2022:
- Lions
- None
- Tigers
- Family Stories
- Earning Your Stripes
- Tiger Tales
- Tiger Theater
- Wolf
- Collections and Hobbies
- Grow Something
- Hometown Heroes
- Motor Away
- Bear
- Beat of the Drum
- World of Sound
- Make it Move
- Robotics
- Webelos & Arrow of Light
- Looking Back Looking Forward
- Maestro
- Project Family
- Build My Hero
- Adventures in Science
- Fit It
- Movie Making
For more information, watch the “Retiring Elective Cub Scout Adventures” episode of Cub Chat Live.
Religious Emblems
Duty to God is a cornerstone of the Scouting program. The Scout Oath begins with duty to God; the Scout Law ends with reverence. The BSA recognizes that religious instruction comes from the family and faith community. We are proud to announce a 27% increase in youth receiving their denomination’s religious awards. Youth earn the awards by completing a workbook with their parent or a religious institution-appointed counselor. Adults are nominated by a third-party to their church leadership.
To help with this program, units are encouraged to appoint a Religious Emblems Coordinator who will help with educating, motivating, evaluating, and expanding the usage of the religious emblems programs.
Cub Scout Recruitment and Advancement
A fisherman does not bait his hook with food he likes. He uses food the fish likes. So with boys.
Adult leaders who want to recruit Cub Scouts must not design the program around activities that they find fun, but instead plan the program with fun things that Cub Scout-aged children like. “Program” is doing the fun activities and going fun places.
Regardless of the “bait,” though, the “hook” for keeping the “catch” in a pack must remain the methods of Cub Scouting. When advancement is a natural part of the Cub Scout program, Cub Scouts will stay in the program, eventually becoming Scouts, and growing into future leaders.
Ensuring a Smooth Scout Transfer
What happens to Scouts when families move? What should the parents do? What does the unit do? How can the council help?
Mindful of the need to accommodate moving families, the BSA long ago developed a two-sided transfer form for both youth members and adult leaders. Plus, any BSA member can change units any time for any reason, not just because of a move. If a member needs to transfer from one unit to another, the first step is to fill out the appropriate information on the transfer form. Collaborate with unit volunteers or council staff for assistance with dates, training taken, youth ranks earned, awards received, offices held, and Order of the Arrow records. This form is especially important when moving to another council.
Registration Beyond the Age of Eligibility
Youth and adults who are developmentally disabled or cognitively impaired, or youth with severe physical
challenges, may be considered for registration beyond the ages of eligibility: age 11 or older for a Cub Scout, 18 or older for a Scouts BSA member, or 21 or older as a Venturer or Sea Scout. An adult of any age who has developmental disabilities, for example, may be considered for youth membership and join Scouting with a recommendation from a qualified medical professional.
To register a Scout beyond the age of eligibility, work with the district advancement chair to fill out the request as outlined in Chapter 10 of the Guide to Advancement.
Mentoring & Scouting
More than one in three young people say that they have never had a positive role model or mentor. That is approximately 16 million youth who could benefit from a program like Scouting. Through the relationship leaders build with Scouts, they help them develop their character and leadership skills. Scouts learn to give back to the community through service projects.
Scout leaders are mentors to the Scout unit, the trusted guides and counselors who can have an impact on the lives of many youth.
Training Awards for Adult Leaders
April is volunteer recognition month. The BSA offers several training awards and keys for adults in all positions who have completed training, given service to their unit, and shown leadership.
Is your unit leader awesome? They may qualify for the Unit Leader Award of Merit. Download the nomination form and submit them if they qualify.
Military Outstanding Volunteer Service Medal
The Military Outstanding Volunteer Service Medal (MOVSM) recognizes members of the armed forces 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 your command requests a letter from the council about your volunteer service, please contact your 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 you come to purchase the knot.
Scouting Awards
There are many different awards Scouting offers. Have you heard of the Keep America Beautiful Hometown Award? You can find information about this award and many more at Awards Central.
The Lifesaving and Meritorious Action Awards recognize registered youth and adults who have performed an attempt to save a life or to recognize notable acts of service that need not involve attempts of rescue or risk to self but put into practice Scouting skills and/or ideals. More information and the nomination forms can be found here.
Help Wanted – American Red Cross Instructors
Are you currently an American Red Cross instructor? The council is looking to expand our listing of instructors who can help teach courses throughout the year. If you are an American Heart Association Instructor, there is a free online bridging course. You can teach for your unit under our Authorized Partnership at a reduced cost. Contact Richard Becker if you are interested.
Camp Staff for Summer Camp 2022
What are your plans for next summer? Are you looking for an awesome opportunity to learn new things, develop new skills, share what you know, meet new people, work an internship, and enjoy Pipsico Scout Reservation?
We are accepting applications for Counselors in Training, Junior staff, Area directors, Commissioners, and administration. Program areas include aquatics, shooting sports, Scout skills for new Scouts and for seasoned Scouts, handicraft, cook-crew, and more.
You must be at least 14 years of age by June 20, 2022 to be considered. Camp staff is composed of youth, young adults, college students, school teachers, bus drivers, professionals who want to get away from the office, and folks who have an open schedule. Fill out the online application at pipsicobsa.com/summer-camp-programs/staffapplication and we will contact you for an interview.
District Executive Job Opening
Since 1910, Scouting has helped mold the future leaders of this country by combining educational activities and lifelong values with fun. The Boy Scouts of America believes and understands that helping youth puts us on a path towards a more conscientious, responsible, and productive society.
Today’s professional Scouters are a diverse group of men and women sharing a dynamic career offering independence, achievement, and stability. This is work that makes a difference, work that calls one to continual learning and challenge, work that offers solid compensation, benefits, and advancement.
If you or someone you know is interested in making a difference through a career in Scouting, please contact Bill Lawrence at bill.lawrence2@scouting.org.
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.
Code of Conduct
Did you know that the Rules and Regulations of the Boy Scouts of America support the establishment of codes of conduct? Please know that the Boy Scouts of America expects Scouters to follow the Scout Oath and Scout Law, as well as other laws and regulations from local, state, and federal governments. The Scouter Code of Conduct should be reviewed regularly; abiding by it is acknowledged by all adults when they complete an application.
COVID-19 Assistance
Does your family need assistance due to COVID-19? Tidewater Council is a partner agency with United Way of South Hampton Roads and Albemarle Area United Way, as well as a member of the Unite Us Hampton Roads United Coordinated Network and NCCARE360. For coordinated care referrals, please contact us.
Scouts in Action
Congratulations to new Eagle Scout Andrew S. of Albemarle Troop 127, Flaming Arrow Patrol!
Albemarle Pack 771 welcomed some new Bobcats! The pack enjoyed celebrating their achievements. Congratulations Scouts!
With cold weather comes winter camping at its best. Several Albemarle troops have been utilizing Scout skills to build shelters and stay warm, while other units have enjoyed being in the great outdoors.
You’ve heard of Cub Scouts, Scouts BSA, Sea Scouts… but how about Snow Scouts?
Thanks to the Bussiere Family for sharing your winter creation and your love of Scouting!
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