Table of Contents
Upcoming Events
Popcorn 101
June 3
Designed for new Unit Popcorn Kernels, Popcorn 101 training lays the groundwork for a successful popcorn sale.
- Great resource course for new Unit Popcorn Kernels, Committee Chairs, and Treasurers!
- Gain fundamental knowledge BEFORE the popcorn arrives!
- Chock-full of helpful tips!
- Entry-level information to help form a successful popcorn fundraiser, from start to finish!
- Networking opportunity that shouldn’t be missed!
- Come join us for a popping-good time!
This training will be offered both in-person at the Mary Jayne Breeden Council Service Center and virtually. For questions, contact Tony Montemurno at [email protected].
Rick Anoia Scouting Golf Classic
June 11
Gather your team for the Rick Anoia Scouting Golf Classic on Thursday, June 11 at Virginia Beach National Golf Club!
Enjoy 18 holes of golf (Captain’s Choice), a hole-in-one challenge for a lease on a new 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLE, longest drive and closest to the pin challenges, lunch, dinner, and awards – all while supporting local Scouting! Sponsorships and team registration are available.
Scout Night with the Norfolk Tides
June 12
The Norfolk Tides welcome Scouting families to enjoy an evening at the ballpark as they take on the Memphis Redbirds on Friday, June 12, 2026 at 6:35 PM at Harbor Park!
Tickets and camping vouchers for Scout Night with the Norfolk Tides are now available. Purchase vouchers at the Tidewater Council Scout Shop. Tickets are $19 each and camping vouchers are $5 each. The deadline to purchase vouchers is Thursday, June 11 at noon, or until sold out.
Ticket vouchers must be exchanged for seat tickets at the Harbor Park Ticket Office. Vouchers can be exchanged in advance or the night of the game. Groups are strongly encouraged to exchange vouchers in advance to ensure everyone sits together.
Guests must adhere to all Harbor Park policies, including the Fan Code of Conduct and the Clear Bag Policy. All Guide to Safe Scouting rules apply. Only registered leaders may camp with troops, crews, ships, or posts.
Be sure to review the Scout Night Instructions for important information about participating in the pre-game parade, patch collection, and camping in the outfield.
Resources
Beaver Day
OA Summer Camp Work Day at Pipsico
June 13
OA Summer Camp Workday, also referred to as Beaver Day, is a chance for everyone (not just Order of the Arrow members) to help get Pipsico Scout Reservation ready for summer camp. Help make camping areas and structures useful to everyone for years to come.
On Saturday, June 13, work will begin at 9 AM and end around 4 PM. There will be projects for everyone, skilled and unskilled alike. Whether you are a master carpenter, an amateur gardener, or a lawyer, everyone can be a “Busy Beaver” on a project of their choice.
As a thank you to volunteers, lunch will be provided by some of the amazing Summer Camp Cook Crew. To ensure there is enough food for all volunteers, please register now at scoutingevent.com/596-BeaverDay2026.
Cub Scout Day Camps
June-July
Get ready to stomp, chomp, and roar your way through the most “dino”-mite adventure of the summer. At Dinotopia Day Camp, explorers will dig into prehistoric discoveries, unleash their inner T-Rex, and build friendships that are a million years in the making. Every day is packed with larger than life fun.
Deadlines for registration close two weeks prior to each camp starting.
Cub Scout day camps and twilight camps are summer outdoor experiences for Cub Scout youth. Staffed by a team of volunteers, day camp activities include sports and games, academics, STEM and science activities, nature exploration, crafts, range and target activities, and skits and songs. Cub Scouts have the opportunity to try new things as they work on elective Cub Scouting Adventures.
Elizabeth City Day Camp (Albemarle)
June 15-19, 2026
Registration deadline: June 1, 2026
Albemarle Day Camp will be held at Holy Family Catholic Church in Elizabeth City. Camp runs from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM, with Friday wrapping up early at 1:00 PM.
For questions, contact Tiffany at [email protected].
Virginia Beach Day Camp (Bayside)
June 15-19, 2026
Registration Deadline: June 1, 2026
Bayside Day Camp will be held at Bayside Masonic Lodge in Virginia Beach. Camp runs from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM, with Friday wrapping up early at 1:00 PM.
For questions, contact Michelle at [email protected].
Virginia Beach Day Camp (Princess Anne)
June 22-26, 2026
Registration Deadline: June 8, 2026
Princess Anne Day Camp will be held at Tabernacle Baptist Academy in Virginia Beach. Camp runs from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM, with Friday wrapping up early at 1:00 PM.
For questions, contact Andrew at [email protected].
Virginia Beach Twilight Camp (Princess Anne)
July 13-17, 2026
Registration Deadline: June 29, 2026
Princess Anne Twilight Camp will be held at the Columbian Club in Virginia Beach. Camp runs from 3:00 PM to 8:00 PM.
For questions, contact Andrew at [email protected].
Chesapeake Twilight Camp (Three Rivers)
July 20-24, 2026
Registration Deadline: July 6, 2026
Three Rivers Twilight Camp will be held at Great Bridge Baptist Church in Chesapeake. Camp runs from 3:00 PM to 8:00 PM.
For questions, contact Steven at [email protected].
Pipsico Scout Reservation Summer Camp
June-July
Pipsico Scout Reservation offers a wide variety of activities and programs that enable Scouts to earn awards while having fun!
Facilities include a 40-foot climbing and rappelling tower, air conditioned dining hall, swimming pool with ramp access for those with mobility needs, recently-renovated aquatics center, fully equipped health lodge, trading post, ranges for range and target activities, and more.
All Pipsico programs and facilities are Nationally Accredited.
What are you waiting for? Sign up for Beazley Scouts BSA Summer Camp 2026 today and get ready for an awesome camping experience, at a beautiful property, with a friendly camp staff!
Week 1: June 21 – June 27
Week 2: June 28 – July 4
Week 3: July 5 – July 11
Week 4: July 12 – July 18
Popcorn Training
June 24 & June 29
Join us to learn about the 2026 Tidewater Council Popcorn Sale!
There are two training dates available, and both trainings will be offered both in-person and virtually. The same information will be covered at each session, so pick the date and location that is best for you!
- Wednesday, June 24 at 6:30 PM at Moyock United Methodist Church
- Monday, June 29 at 6:30 PM at the Mary Jayne Breeden Tidewater Council Service Center
This popcorn training is designed for both new and returning popcorn kernels. We will focus on what is new for this year’s sale, best practices, and opportunities that can benefit your unit.
For questions, contact Erin Alger at [email protected].
Range and Target Activities Trainings
August - September
Want to learn how to run a safe range? Interested in joining range and target activities staff at council events like Outdoor Adventure Weekend? Want the ability to run unit-level range and target activities events for older Scouts? Tidewater Council offers multiple training opportunities for NRA and USA Archery certifications.
Course Schedule
- NRA Basic Shotgun: August 8
- NRA Basic Rifle: August 9
- NRA Basic Pistol: August 15
- NRA Instructor Pre-Qualification Range Day: August 16
- NRA Range Safety Officer: September 26
Contact
- If interested in assisting with range and target activities training, email [email protected].
- If interested in staffing a Tidewater Council range and target activities event, email [email protected].
High Adventure Backpacking and Canoeing Training
September 11-13
Have you thought about traveling through the wilderness of our great country? Enjoying clear nights where you see so many stars that you cannot pick out a constellation? Observing wildlife in its natural habitat? Fishing in streams brimming with large bass or salmon? If you long to see nature unencumbered by man’s development, you should join or organize a High Adventure trip for your unit. Scouting’s High Adventure program allows you to travel through the undeveloped parts of our country and view nature at its best.
The heart of Scouting America’s program are the outdoor activities we conduct. The two separate training courses for High Adventure, backpacking and canoeing, are scheduled for September 11-13, 2026. The training provides Scout leaders and senior youth with the skills to plan and conduct a High Adventure trek involving backpacking or canoeing.
Backpacking
In the backpacking training, participants will learn and practice the skills involved by hiking with full gear for at least 5 miles. The location of this hike will be announced by the summer.
Canoeing
The canoe training will begin at Camp Moonyah with basic training in canoeing, then participants will travel from Camp Moonyah to Camp Baker, a ten-mile trek, via the Intracoastal Waterway.
Course Details
Adult leaders will learn how to organize and execute one of these adventures, while the senior youth will learn what is expected of a crew leader.
The fee for a participant is $45, which includes food, canoe rentals, and site fees. Registration is coming soon in Black Pug. Each course is limited to 20 participants.
For further information, please contact Jeffrey Irving at 757-646-5218 or Chip Elliott at 858-386-6209.
Cub Scout Pool Party at Pipsico
September 11-13
Save the date to splash, play, and have fun in the pool!
Cub Scouts and their families are invited to make a splash this fall at the Cub Scout Pool Party at Pipsico Scout Reservation. This event will offer an opportunity for Cub Scouts ages 5–11 to connect with friends and enjoy aquatic fun in a safe, family-friendly environment.
More details and registration information are coming soon.
2nd Annual Tidewater Council Air-O-Ree
September 17-20, 2026
Mark your calendar for the 2nd Annual Tidewater Council Air-O-Ree at the 2026 NAS Oceana Air Show!
This unique event is open to Cub Scout packs, Scouts BSA troops, Sea Scouting ships, Venturing crews, and Exploring posts.
- Come watch the Blue Angels and other top-tier aviators show the right stuff at the 2026 NAS Oceana Air Show
- Camp at Naval Air Station Oceana
- Participate in special Q&A sessions for Scouting participants
- Contribute service hours by helping with Foreign Object Debris (FOD) walkdown
- And MORE!
Campsites will be available starting Thursday night (September 17).
For questions, contact Chip Elliott at 858-386-6209 or [email protected].
Save the date – more information is coming soon!
Wood Badge
April 30 – May 2 and May 21-23, 2027
Wood Badge is an advanced, national leadership course for Scouting leaders. Scouters from Cub Scouting, Scouts BSA, Venturing, Sea Scouting, and Exploring, and district and council Scouters all are welcome.
What do we learn?
- Listening
- Managing conflict
- Leading change
- Stages of team development
- Coaching and mentoring
- Leadership for different stages
- Servant leadership
- Project planning
- And more!
Why?
- Stronger units. Make your Scouting unit — and your sons’ and daughters’ units — stronger.
- What and why of Scouting. Develop a deeper understanding of what Scouting is and why we do it.
- Experience. Learn skills and useful leadership tools that will make a difference both inside and outside Scouting.
- Fun. Have fun and meet interesting people.
What's next?
If interested in attending as a participant or serving on staff, fill out this interest form. You’ll be the first to know as course updates are announced!
World Scout Jamboree
July 30 - August 8, 2027
The World Scout Jamboree is held every four years around the world. The next Jamboree will be held in Gdansk, Poland in the summer of 2027 and will have approximately 45,000 Scouts and leaders from over 140 countries in attendance.
Age Requirements
- Participants must be between the ages of 14-17 at the start of the Jamboree on July 30, 2027.
- Those over 17 at the start of the Jamboree can apply to be a unit leader or on staff.
- Those under age 14 are not eligible to attend the 2027 World Scout Jamboree. Save the date for the 2031 World Scout Jamboree in Denmark!
For More Information
- World Scout Jamboree website: jamboree2027.org
- US Contingent website: wsj2027.us
- In-council point of contact: Keegan Daley, [email protected], 716-381-7200
In Fond Remembrance
Charlie Mann
Contributed by Mike Longworth, Troop 408 Scoutmaster
I met Charlie Mann and his son, Andy, nearly 30 years ago, in the fall of 1996, when my son and I joined Troop 408. I served one year as an Assistant Scoutmaster then transitioned to Committee Chair, serving in that role for nearly 20 years. I worked with Charlie, who was our Unit Commissioner. Charlie and Andy were solid members of the troop, participating in almost all camping events and meetings. If Charlie wasn’t camping with us, he would still often help transport Scouts and equipment.
Charlie and I started working more closely together when I became the Troop 408 Scoutmaster in 2018. Over the past eight years, Charlie contributed even more to Scouting after he retired from his full-time engineering employment, and filled the Committee Chair role for the past few years. As our Committee Chair, Charlie worked with the troop committee to revise and update the troop bylaws, a long-needed project.
Charlie was generous with his time, talent, and treasure. As a Swimming Merit Badge Counselor, he coordinated with Scout parents to teach swimming lessons. This was a big help to many of the Troop 408 Scouts, especially those who are on the spectrum and had difficulty learning to swim. Charlie was patient with the Scouts and successfully taught them how to swim and subsequently earn Swimming Merit Badge.
For several years, Charlie taught Disabilities Awareness to Scouts, including at National Jamborees.
Annually, Charlie contributed significant dollars to pay for Scouts with limited means to attend Summer Camp and special events. Additionally, Charlie contributed significantly to pay the cost of bringing a fresh water source to Camp Moonyah.
Charlie certainly fulfilled the Scout Oath and Scout Law in every aspect. He contributed to Troop 408 to his dying day.
Outside Scouting, Charlie was a long-time active member of Emmanuel Episcopal Church, where he sang in the choir. Also, he was an adjunct engineering professor at Tidewater Community College.
Certainly, Charlie was a loyal and faithful servant and an example for all of us.
A memorial service will be held at Emmanuel Episcopal Church, 5181 Singleton Way in Virginia Beach on Saturday, June 20, 2026 at 11:00 AM.
News
Registrar's Corner
Fee Waiver for Military Families
Scouting America is committed to expanding access to Scouting for military-connected youth.
Scouting America is waiving the $85 national youth registration fee for eligible military families through a verification and code process during online registration. See the Military Family Fee Waiver handout for details.
Key Points to Remember:
- Eligibility and verification processes were set by the National Council of Scouting America and may not be altered locally.
- The fee waiver is for online registration only. There are no workarounds or other options.
- There is a verification process in place to verify military status as part of the registration process.
- The discount applies only to the National fee.
- It includes Active Duty, Reserve and National Guard.
- This program goes into effect on June 1, 2026.
- Click here to see screenshots of the process.
A New, Simpler Renewal Cycle for All Members
By February 2028, all members and all units will have a single, common renewal month of February. This change is in response to feedback from unit leaders and other Scouters who asked for a simpler, more consistent renewal experience.
Key updates include:
- Beginning September 2026, all units due for renewal will renew to February 2028.
- All memberships and unit charters will have a common renewal month of February by February 2028.
- To simplify the process and in response to unit leaders’ requests, Scouting America is returning to unit control of member renewals.
- If the unit does not renew a member, that member may renew themselves after the unit-only period closes.
- The current 60-day grace period will end December 31, 2026.
- Members renewing in November 2026 will still receive a 30-day grace period through December 2026.
- Members renewing in December 2026 must renew by December 31, 2026 to avoid being dropped.
To support the transition during 2026:
- Beginning in September 2026, new and renewing units will use the standard charter fee plus a monthly pro-rata fee through February 2028.
- No changes for new and renewing members through 2026.
This is a significant operational change designed to reduce complexity and create a more streamlined experience for volunteers, families, and councils alike. Additional information will be coming soon from Scouting America.
Annual Grade and Program Rollover Scheduled for June 3
The Annual Grade and Program Rollover to update member records will occur on Wednesday, June 3. This process will begin at 8 PM. Updates will have an effective date of June 1.
Grade Rollover
All records with grades will be advanced one grade. For example, records for all Scouts listed as second graders will be updated to list those Scouts as third graders. All those listed as 12th graders will update to no grade.
Program Rollover
Cub Scouts records will update to the next program year. Lion youth will become Tiger youth. Tiger youth will become Cub Scout youth (Wolves). Second-year Cub Scouts (Bears) will become Webelos youth. First-year Webelos will become Arrows of Light.
Exclusions
There are exclusions from this process:
- No changes will be made on Lion and Tiger Den Leader Positions.
- No programs will be updated for registrations with an effective date of June 1 or later.
- No programs will be updated for registrants in batches on hold (new units and additional enrollments).
Safe Transportation Starts Before the Engine Does
Every Scouting adventure begins and ends with transportation. Whether traveling to summer camp, a weekend campout, or a unit service project, safe transportation is one of the most important responsibilities leaders and parents share in protecting our Scouts.
Many families are surprised to learn that when a personal vehicle is used for an official Scouting activity, the vehicle owner’s automobile insurance is considered the primary coverage. Scouting America’s general liability insurance is excess coverage, meaning it only applies after the owner’s insurance policy limits have been exhausted.
Because of this, Scouting America strongly recommends that all drivers participating in Scouting activities carry adequate automobile liability insurance beyond the minimum state requirements.
Recommended Insurance Coverage
Scouting America recommends:
- A minimum of $100,000 combined single-limit liability coverage for standard passenger vehicles.
- $1,000,000 liability coverage for vehicles designed to carry ten or more passengers.
All vehicles used for Scouting activities must, at minimum, meet the legal insurance requirements of the state where the vehicle is licensed.
Important Transportation Safety Reminders
Leaders and parents can help keep Scouts safe by following these important transportation guidelines:
- Drivers must be at least 18 years old and possess a valid driver’s license.
- Youth drivers may not transport Scouts to Scouting events.
- All passengers must wear seat belts at all times.
- Drivers should avoid distractions, including texting or phone use while driving.
- Trips should include regular breaks to prevent fatigue.
- Vehicles should complete a pre-trip inspection before departure.
- 15-passenger vans manufactured before 2005 are prohibited for Scouting use.
- Passengers may not ride in truck beds, trailers, or campers while in motion.
- Transportation must comply with Scouting America’s Youth Protection policies, including two-deep leadership and no one-on-one transportation situations.
A Good Time to Review Your Coverage
Before your next Scouting event, take a few minutes to:
- Verify your insurance coverage limits.
- Ensure your vehicle registration and insurance cards are current.
- Review your vehicle’s safety condition.
- Confirm everyone traveling understands Scouting transportation guidelines.
Safe transportation is more than a policy—it is part of our commitment to protecting every Scout, leader, and family member who participates in the Scouting program. A little preparation before the trip helps ensure everyone arrives safely and returns home with great memories from their Scouting adventure.
Scouting Safety Moment
It is recommended to include a Scouting Safety Moment during meetings to inform Scouts and parents and keep everyone safe. Numerous Scouting Safety Moments are available here.
Heat-Related Illness
Each year, heat-related illnesses strike the unprepared. Prevention is key! Be prepared by acclimating to the environment for at least seven days before going on an outdoor adventure; drinking plenty of fluids and eating a healthy diet beforehand; and continuing to drink fluids when outdoors on hot or humid days. Be sure to drink only when you’re thirsty to avoid overhydrating. Take extra rest breaks, especially if you are exercising strenuously.
Spring Recruiting
Families can join Scouting at any time during the year, and spring is a great time to focus efforts on inviting new youth to join the adventure.
- Showcase the Adventure: Tell prospective members about the unit’s upcoming outdoor activities. Seeing a calendar of upcoming events gives families a more concrete idea of the opportunities available and makes them more excited to join. The council can assist if your unit is hosting a recruiting event that you would like to share with prospective families. We can geofence the event through Facebook. Simply complete this form at least two weeks prior to your event and turn in to your district executive.
- Collaborate: Packs should invite nearby troops to their joining events. Spring recruiting is the ideal time for troops to recruit fifth graders.
- Be Strategic: Do a membership inventory before planning the recruiting event. If some ages or ranks are light, target recruiting to those grades.
- Ask for Help: The district executive wants to help! Contact them for assistance with printing and delivering flyers, arranging a youth talk, geofenced advertising on Facebook (as mentioned above), event planning, or any other advice needed.
- Dropped Members: Reach out to families who did not renew their membership with the unit’s recharter and ask why. Maybe they needed a personal invitation to come back. Maybe they have moved or have a scheduling conflict – if so, offer for the district executive to contact them to help find another unit. If they have suggestions or complaints, their feedback may help to improve the Scouting program.
- Peer Recruiting: One of the most effective recruiting methods is a personal invitation from a friend. Encourage Scouts to bring a friend to a fun event. When the friend joins Scouting, the Scout qualifies to earn the Recruiter Strip.
- Please note that it is too early to recruit pre-kindergarteners. The Lions program does not start until August 1 each year.
Scout Shop
Congratulations Graduating Class of 2026!
As the end of the school year nears and graduation ceremonies begin, remember to come in and purchase Eagle Scout Graduation Cords.
Help your Eagle Scout celebrate their accomplishments and show off their Scouting pride when they wear the red, white, and blue Eagle Scout Graduation Cords with their cap and gown. Cords are available in the Scout Shop for $12.99.
Celebrate Your American Pride in Red, White, and Blue!
The Scout Shop has a new Americana T-shirt. It honors more than a century of Scouting tradition with a design rooted in heritage and everyday wearability. Clean, classic, and easy to style, this tee reflects the values and history that have shaped generations of Scouts. Available in adult sizes small – 2XL.
Day Camp is Right Around the Corner
The Scout Shop has many day camp essentials in store, such as drawstring backpacks, water bottles, and bug spray. Swing by the store and see all the different options available to get your Cub Scout ready for day camp!
Scout Shop Hours
The Scout Shop will be closed on Saturday, May 23 for Memorial Day weekend.
Now Hiring
District Executive
Since 1910, Scouting has helped shape the future leaders of this country by combining educational activities and lifelong values with fun. Scouting 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 Christy Cooper at [email protected].
Beazley Scouts BSA Summer Camp Staff Opportunities
Join the team at Pipsico Scout Reservation!
Are you ready to make a difference next summer and create unforgettable experiences for Scouts and fellow staff members? Pipsico Scout Reservation is looking for enthusiastic and dedicated individuals to join our team! Whether you’re passionate about outdoor education, adventure programming, or supporting behind the scenes, we have a role for you.
Positions Available
- Camp Commissioners
- Dining Hall Manager
- Program Staff
- Kitchen Crew
- Camp Counselors
- Administrative Support
Why Work at Pipsico?
- Gain valuable leadership and teamwork skills.
- Enjoy the beauty of the outdoors while making lasting memories.
- Be part of a vibrant and supportive Scouting community.
Don’t wait—applications are open and positions are filling fast!
Pipsico Tree Photos
A favorite stop on a Pipsico Scout Reservation hike is the Pipsico Tree, a tulip poplar nearly 20 feet in circumference that predates the arrival of the first English colonists.
Pipsico’s Heritage Area team and volunteer camp maintenance team, the Busy Beavers, are seeking your photos with the Pipsico Tree for a collage and slideshow. Please send any photos to [email protected] to be included in the display.
Development Corner
Friends of Scouting
Friends of Scouting is Tidewater Council’s annual giving campaign. The generosity of Scouting families, alumni, and community supporters keeps the overall cost of Scouting affordable so all families can participate. Tidewater Council’s goal is to raise $550,000 through Friends of Scouting in 2026.
Has your unit scheduled its 2026 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.
Campaign Progress as of May 31, 2026
Each district shares a portion of the overall goal:
United Way Donor Designations
Tidewater Council is a partner agency with United Way of South Hampton Roads and Albemarle Area United Way. Did you know that you can designate a United Way gift to local Scouting?
- For United Way of South Hampton Roads, you can designate your gift to support Scouting America Tidewater Council.
- For Albemarle Area United Way, you can designate your gift to support Scouting America Tidewater Council (4004).
Leave a Legacy: James E. West Fellowship Award
The James E. West Fellowship Award is a national recognition for individuals who contribute $1,000 or more in cash or securities to the Tidewater Council endowment fund. This contribution is in addition to, and does not diminish or replace, the donor’s annual gift to the council’s Friends of Scouting campaign.
Organizations or individuals may contribute an award in honor of someone — an Eagle Scout, a Silver Beaver recipient, Living Legend, or any outstanding Scout or Scouter.
Program Ideas
June
- National Camping Month
- Attend Cub Scout Day Camp.
- Attend Summer Resident Camp.
- Work on the Camping merit badge.
- Work on the Cub Scout rank-specific Camping Adventure:
- Go camping!
- World Bicycle Day: June 3
- Work on the Cycling merit badge.
- Work on the Cub Scout rank-specific Cycling Adventure:
- Go for a bike ride!
- World Food Safety Day: June 7
- Share the Keeping Your Food Safe Safety Moment.
- Work on the Cooking merit badge.
- Flag Day: June 14
- Conduct a flag ceremony.
- Share this article about flag etiquette.
- Work on the American Heritage merit badge (requirement 3b).
- National Go Fishing Day: June 18
- Work on the Fishing merit badge.
- Work on the Fly Fishing merit badge.
- Work on the Fish and Wildlife Management merit badge.
- Work on the Complete Angler Recognition.
- Work on the Cub Scout rank-specific Fishing Adventure:
- Go fishing!
- Lightning Safety Awareness Week: June 21-27
- Share the Weather-Related Safety Safety Moment.
- Take Hazardous Weather Training on My.Scouting.
- Take the Scouting Magazine Before the Storm Safety Quiz.
- Share the Scout Life article, “Be Prepared for These 5 Common Weather Hazards.”
- Work on the Weather merit badge.
July
- National U.S. Postage Stamp Day: July 1
- Work on the Stamp Collecting merit badge.
- Invite Scouts to write and mail a letter, card, or postcard.
- Independence Day: July 4
- Work on the Citizenship in the Nation merit badge.
- Work on the American Heritage merit badge.
- Have a Scout barbecue.
- Watch fireworks with your unit.
- Plan a patriotic service project.
- National Swimming Pool Day: July 11
- Work on the Swimming merit badge.
- Work on the Cub Scout rank-specific Swimming Adventure:
- Learn about aquatics safety with Safe Swim Defense and Safety Afloat training at My.Scouting.
- Share Scouting Safety Moments:
- Space Exploration Day: July 20
- Work on the Space Exploration merit badge.
- Work on the Sky is the Limit Adventure for Tigers.
- National Hammock Day: July 22
- Share the Hammock Safety for Camping Safety Moment.
- Share the “Hammock camping, the BSA way” article in Scouting Magazine.
- World Nature Conservation Day: July 28
- Work on the Environmental Science merit badge.
- Work on the Soil and Water Conservation merit badge.
- Work on the Sustainability merit badge.
- Work on the Cub Scout rank-specific Champions for Nature Adventure:
- Conduct a conservation service project.
Community Engagement
Community Care Assistance
Does your family need assistance accessing community resources? Tidewater Council is a partner agency with United Way of South Hampton Roads and Albemarle Area United Way, as well as a member of the Unite Us Hampton Roads United Coordinated Network and NCCARE360. For coordinated care referrals, please contact us. You may also visit NC 211 or 2-1-1 Virginia for assistance finding resources.
STEM Learning at the HRBT Welcome Center
The HRBT Welcome Center (9401 4th View St., Norfolk, VA 23503) is booking free STEM learning sessions for student groups through 2026.
The presentations are STEM-focused, while also exposing students to regional history and the wide range of careers involved in the $3.9 billion interstate expansion. Programs can be tailored to any age group and program objective.
Scout units can send requests to [email protected] for a one to two hour visit with project staff and engineers between 9 AM and 4 PM Monday through Friday. The HRBT Welcome Center team can typically accommodate groups of 10-30 individuals per session.
Volunteer Opportunities
Visit our Volunteer with Local Scouting webpage for information on additional volunteer opportunities.
Scout Recognition
Tidewater Council recognized the Eagle Scout Class of 2025 and youth Scouts with special awards at the Council Banquet on April 29, 2026 at the Khedive Shrine Center in Chesapeake.
Eagle Scout Class of 2025
Glenn A. and Melinda W. Adams National Eagle Scout Service Project of the Year Award
Christopher B., an Eagle Scout from Troop 364 in Virginia Beach, was awarded the 2025 Scouting America Tidewater Council Eagle Scout Service Project of the Year.
For his Eagle Scout project, Christopher led the installation of a rain garden and a vegetated swale at Foundry United Methodist Church in Virginia Beach, to address ongoing flooding and stormwater runoff.
Isabelle D., an Eagle Scout from Troop 800 in Chesapeake, was awarded honorable mention for the 2025 Scouting America Tidewater Council Eagle Scout Service Project of the Year.
For her Eagle Scout project, Isabelle designed and constructed a pollinator garden at Great Bridge Primary School in Chesapeake.
National Certificate of Merit
Alex, a Scout from Troop 901 in Chesapeake, saved his brother from drowning. His courage and quick thinking made all the difference. Alex was award the National Certificate of Merit for his actions.
Sarah, a Troop 5259 Eagle Scout, provided first aid and shock recovery treatment for a friend who fell from a horse, breaking her arm. Sarah was award the National Certificate of Merit for her actions.
Scouts in Action
On May 13, the Chesapeake Environmental Improvement Council (CEIC) presented Brennan G. with the Community Leader of Tomorrow Award at its 41st Annual Environmental Awards Reception.
Brennan guided members of Troop 57 to enhance South Norfolk Community Garden and Rokeby Community Center Garden. He and his team repaired and moved old garden beds, and built and filled new garden beds.
CEIC explained, “The South Norfolk area is considered a Food Desert, with few places to purchase fresh vegetables. This Community Garden program helps the residents fill that void and promotes sustainable gardening practices. We are so thankful to Troop 57, their families, and Brennan for their hard work in beautifying our parks and making Chesapeake a healthier place to live, learn, work, FARM, and play!”
Cub Scout Pack 408 and Scouts BSA Troops 7, 62, 63, 234, 362, and 757 supported and laid wreaths at Virginia Beach’s Memorial Day Ceremony, presented by Virginia Beach Mayor Bobby Dyer and the Virginia Beach Mayor’s Committee for Veterans to honor our Nation’s Fallen.
Nearly 50 Scouts attended the ceremony, putting their commitment to civic service into action. The event recording can be viewed on YouTube.
The Portsmouth Memorial Day Parade has run annually since 1884. This year, Scouts from Pack 207, Troop 207, Troop 234, Troop 5259, and Crew 179 gathered to march together to represent Scouting America Tidewater Council. Way to go, Scouts!
On May 19, Cub Scout Pack 991 learned about citizenship and the mission of USO Mid-Atlantic.
The Cub Scouts then conducted a service project, writing thank you notes to community members serving in the military. Thank you for doing a Good Turn and showing our service members how much we care!
Scouting in the News
- Gentry Locke Partner John M. Scheib to Receive the Scouting America Distinguished Eagle Scout Award, from Gentry Locke, April 15, 2026
- Local scout builds lasting legacy at Jockey’s Ridge State Park, from The Coastland Times, May 8, 2026
- Three Leaders Receive Highest Honor from Scouting America Tidewater Council, from the Hampton Roads Chamber of Commerce, May 15, 2026
- Four Scout Leaders Honored as Living Legends, from the Hampton Roads Chamber of Commerce, May 18, 2026
- Eagle Scout Service Project Chosen as Best for 2025, from the Hampton Roads Chamber of Commerce, May 18, 2026
- Chesapeake Scout Receives Scouting America National Certificate of Merit, from the Hampton Roads Chamber of Commerce, May 19, 2026
- Chesapeake boy saves his brother from drowning, from 13News Now – WVEC, May 25, 2026
- Chesapeake Eagle Scout Provides First Aid to Friend Injured in Horseback Riding Accident, from the Hampton Roads Chamber of Commerce, May 26, 2026
We want to hear from you! Send stories, photos, and videos of your Scouts in action to [email protected] (with parental permission, of course).