Table of Contents
Upcoming Events
Albemarle District Camporee
October 3-5
Discover the Outer Banks Historic Trail at the Albemarle District Camporee!
The Outer Banks Historic Trail provides Scouts and Scouters opportunity to expand their outdoor experiences and learn more about the rich history of the Outer Banks in North Carolina. Learn more about the coastal environment, conservation, and the rich natural resource heritage of the area while earning the coveted trail medal and patch.
Princess Anne Fall Cuboree
October 10-12
Stir up some spooky fun at the 2025 Princess Anne Cuboree!
A bubbling brew of STEM, range and target activities, and Halloween thrills awaits – costumes, cauldrons, and adventure all weekend long!
Coin Collecting Merit Badge Program
October 11
Join the Tidewater Coin Club for a Coin Collecting merit badge program! The merit badge session will be held at the Virginia Beach Coin Show at the Virginia Beach Convention Center on Saturday, October 11 from 10 AM – noon.
Advanced registration is required; please contact Fran Ryan at [email protected] or Eddie DeVault at [email protected] to reserve a spot.
Albemarle District Cuboree
October 17-19
Cub Scout families, fly high in Scouting!
The Albemarle Cuboree 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). Activities may include STEM exploration, kite-flying, Jamboree-on-the-Air, campfires, and much more.
Three Rivers District Scouts BSA Spook-O-Ree
October 24-26
Step right up—Carnival Madness is rolling into Izaak Walton!
This Scouts BSA weekend is packed with lots of spooky fun. Test your skills, enjoy the games, and soak up the eerie excitement of the season. Spots are limited, so register now for an unforgettable adventure!
Range and Target Activity Training: Rifle Instructor Course
November 1
Interested in become a certified firearms or archery instructor? Tidewater Council’s Shooting Sports Committee can help Scout leaders fulfill these ambitions and become qualified to lead range and target activity programs for their units.
In 2025, Tidewater Council is offering training for multiple types of firearms. Not only that, but the council also offered its first USA Archery Level 1 Instructor course. Tidewater Council’s Shooting Sports Committee offers leaders opportunities to obtain instructor credentials at a fraction of the cost available elsewhere.
Class sizes are limited – sign up today!
Course Schedule
- NRA Rifle Instructor Course: November 1
Visit the Black Pug registration page for course details, pricing, and more information. For questions, please contact the Shooting Sports Committtee at [email protected].
Cub Scout Investigators Family Camp
November 7-9
Cub Scouts and their families are invited to participate in a variety of crime-solving and investigation activities at Pipsico Scout Reservation!
- Climbing and bouldering
- Range and target activities
- Games and crafts
- Scavenger hunt
- Campfire – bring a skit or a song to perform!
- Dessert bake-off competitions
- Door prize drawing
Princess Anne Fall Camporee
Fall STEM Academy
November 7-9
Get ready to explore, invent, and discover at the Princess Anne District Fall STEM Academy Merit Badge Weekend – where curiosity meets innovation!
This exciting event, held at Camp Pendleton in Virginia Beach, is designed to ignite Scouts’ passion for science, technology, engineering, and mathematics through hands-on learning while earning merit badges. With guidance from expert mentors and merit badge counselors, Scouts will not only earn key STEM-related merit badges, but will also gain a deeper understanding of how STEM skills shape the world and the future.
Registration is now open for Princess Anne troops and crews, and will open to Scouts from other districts on October 15. For questions, contact the Camp Chief, Sam Grinvalsky, at [email protected] or 757-639-4214.
National Youth Leadership Training (NYLT)
November 7-9 and November 14-16
National Youth Leadership Training is an exciting, action-packed program designed to provide youth members with leadership skills and experience they can use. Participants must attend both weekends:
- Weekend 1: November 7-9 at Izaak Walton League Park, Chesapeake
- Weekend 2: November 14-16 at Camp Kiwanis, Pipsico Scout Reservation
The NYLT course centers around the concepts of what a leader must BE, must KNOW, and must DO. The key elements are taught with a clear focus on HOW TO.
Content is delivered in a troop and patrol outdoor setting with an emphasis on the immediate application of learning in a fun environment. Interconnecting concepts and work processes are introduced early, built upon, and aided, which allows participants to understand and employ leadership skills much faster.
For more information, contact [email protected].
Albemarle Merit Badge Weekend
November 7-9
Albemarle Merit Badge Weekend is an opportunity for all registered Scouts (ages 11+) and Scouters. Mark your calendars for a weekend of adventure, learning, and advancement.
Keep an eye out for registration coming soon. This annual event is popular, and you won’t want to miss your chance to reserve your spot!
Merit Badge Counselors Needed
Calling all merit badge counselors! Come share your knowledge with our community’s future leaders.
Please contact Ray Bland at 252-312-4285 or [email protected] to sign up today.
Tidewater Veterans Day Parade
November 11
All Tidewater Council Cub Scout packs, Scouts BSA troops, Sea Scout ships, Exploring posts, and Venturing crews are invited to participate in the 2025 Tidewater Veterans Day Parade and Ceremony at the Virginia Beach Oceanfront!
This year will commemorate the 50th anniversary of the end of the Vietnam War, and The Moving Wall will be displayed inside the Virginia Beach Convention Center. This is a unique opportunity to view a half-size traveling replica of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial.
All units marching in the parade are requested to bring their American and unit flags. Scouts and leaders should be in uniform. Scouts are invited to remain for the Memorial Service.
Register your unit to march in the parade and pre-order your patches no later than November 10, 2025. Registration is required, and a patch is available by pre-order only.
Albemarle District Freezoree
January 23-25, 2026
It is hereby decreed that all the clans (troops, posts, crews, and ships) within the lands held by Lord Proprietor of the Carolinas and Commander and Chief of Scotland, George Monck, the 1st Duke of Albemarle (the area of Albemarle District) shall present all their able-bodied youth for testing of athletic prowess and skill at the Albemarle District Highland Games. Clans of the Tidewater region in the Colony of Virginia are duly invited. The games will be held at the Encampment of Dinkerderry in Tyner in the County of Chowan within the Province of Carolina.
The events shall include the Haggis Hurl, Tug O’ War, Welly Tossing, Raiding Ladder Build, Sheaf Toss, and Maide-leisg. Clans are encouraged to adopt a tartan and wear it to all events. Tastefully worn kilts are highly encouraged.
Mark ye calendars!
Council Camporall
April 17-19, 2026
Discover an American Adventure at the 2026 Council Camporall at Pipsico Scout Reservation!
The Camporall invites Scouts ages 11+ to celebrate the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence with program areas centered around eras of America, such as the Old West and the Space Age. Be Prepared for Camporall-wide competitions, engaging activities, and lots of outdoor fun!
Save the date for April 17-19, 2026!
Pipsico Scout Reservation Summer Camp
June-July 2026
Pipsico Scout Reservation offers a wide variety of activities and programs that enable Scouts to earn awards while having fun!
Facilities include a 40-foot climbing and rappelling tower, air conditioned dining hall, swimming pool with ramp access for those with mobility needs, recently-renovated aquatics center, fully equipped health lodge, trading post, ranges for range and target activities, and more.
All Pipsico programs and facilities are Nationally Accredited.
What are you waiting for? Sign up for Summer Camp 2026 today and get ready for an awesome camping experience, at a beautiful property, with a friendly camp staff!
Week 1: June 21 – June 27
Week 2: June 28 – July 4
Week 3: July 5 – July 11
Week 4: July 12 – July 18
National Scout Jamboree
July 22-31, 2026
Get ready for the ultimate Scouting experience! The 2026 National Scout Jamboree, being held from July 22-31, 2026 at the Summit Bechtel Reserve in West Virginia, is more than just an event—it is a high-adventure, memory-making, confidence-building journey that your Scout will never forget.
Picture thousands of Scouts from across the country coming together for ten action-packed days of ziplining, mountain biking, rock climbing, water sports, skateboarding, fishing, patch trading, leadership development, and lifelong friendships.
The National Scout Jamboree is a chance for Scouts to grow, explore, and connect in a way that only Scouting can offer. Whether they are looking for adrenaline-pumping adventure or a deeper connection to the Scouting movement, the Jamboree delivers.
Do not miss this incredible opportunity to be part of something big. Spots are filling quickly—learn how your Scout can be part of the excitement by visiting TidewaterBSA.com/jamboree.
Early Bird Deadline
Sign up today! The early bird registration rate ends on November 2. Save $250 per participant by registering at the early bird rate!
National Scholarship Program
Dreaming of the 2026 National Jamboree but concerned about the cost? The National Scholarship Program is here to help!
The National Scholarship Program for the 2026 National Jamboree is designed specifically for Scouts who are excited to join this life-changing experience but may need financial support to make it happen.
Details
- Scholarships cover a portion of the national registration fee.
- Additional council fees (travel, gear, etc.) are not included.
- Full scholarships are rare; most awards cover less than half the national fee.
- Staff members are not eligible, but those aged 16–29 receive a reduced staff fee.
Deadlines
- Round 2: Apply by November 30, 2025 (notifications by mid-winter)
How to Apply
- Visit the official Jamboree site at Jamboree.Scouting.org/participants.
- Complete the online scholarship application.
- Submit by the deadline.
Don’t let finances hold you back. Apply today and take the first step toward an unforgettable adventure!
2026 National Jamboree Staff Band
Scouts and Scouters are invited to apply for the National Jamboree Staff Band. Scout musicians will supply music for ceremonies, events, concerts, and Jamboree entertainment. Check out the NSJ Band Flyer to learn more.
MOHAB Trek
June 26 - July 5, 2027
Join the Tidewater Council High Adventure Committee for an unforgettable trek and pack rafting trip to the Montana Outdoor High Adventure Base (MOHAB) in summer 2027!
MOHAB is unlike any other base. Its remote location and treks going into the Bob Marshall Wilderness Complex offer many possibilities. With the rugged wilderness and the multi-sport expedition format, each trek becomes a truly unique experience. Participants will explore pristine landscapes, take on challenging physical and team-building experiences, while growing in independence and leadership throughout the adventure.
Informational Webinar
Want to learn more? An informational webinar will be held on October 26, 2025 at 7:30 PM. Zoom credentials can be found on the MOHAB flyer.
Registration
Ready to sign up? Submit the participant application here. No payment is due until the crew is filled and application is approved.
World Scout Jamboree
July 30 - August 8, 2027
The World Scout Jamboree is held every four years around the world. The next Jamboree will be held in Gdansk, Poland in the summer of 2027 and will have approximately 45,000 Scouts and leaders from over 140 countries in attendance.
Age Requirements
- Participants must be between the ages of 14-17 at the start of the Jamboree on July 30, 2027.
- Those over 17 at the start of the Jamboree can apply to be a unit leader or on staff.
- Those under age 14 are not eligible to attend the 2027 World Scout Jamboree. Save the date for the 2031 World Scout Jamboree in Denmark!
For More Information
- World Scout Jamboree website: jamboree2027.org
- US Contingent website: wsj2027.us
News
Scouting Safety Moment
It is recommended to include a Scouting Safety Moment during meetings to inform Scouts and parents and keep everyone safe. Numerous Scouting Safety Moments are available here.
Safety Data Sheets
Safety Data Sheets are crucial documents that provide valuable information about chemicals and materials. They are designed to ensure safety and help individuals understand the potential hazards associated with these substances.
VFW Scholarship Opportunities
Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) Posts have scholarship opportunities for middle school and high school students. Visit vfw.org/community/youth-and-education for more details and entry forms.
For High School Students
High school students can enter the Voice of Democracy Essay Contest. The 2025-26 theme is: “How Are You Showing Patriotism and Support for Our Country?”
The deadline to submit entries to a local VFW Post is October 31, 2025. The national first place winner receives a $35,000 scholarship.
For Middle School Students
Middle school students can enter the Patriot’s Pen Essay Contest. The 2025-26 theme is: “How Are You Showing Patriotism and Support for Our Country?”
The deadline to submit entries to a local VFW Post is October 31, 2025. The national first place winner can win $5,000.
For Eagle Scouts, Venturing Summit Award Recipients, and Sea Scouting Quartermaster Award Recipients
The VFW Scout of the Year program recognizes Scouts for their standout citizenship, patriotism, and love of country.
The deadline to submit entries to a local VFW Post is March 1, 2026. Before submitting your Scout of the Year application, please review the rules and eligibility requirements. The brochure and entry form can be found here.
Local VFW Posts
Entries for these awards should be submitted to a local VFW Post. For more information, please call your local VFW Post.
Posts in the Tidewater Council area include:
- Post 10950 Outer Banks Post in Nags Head, NC
- Post 7312 Gates County Memorial Post in Gatesville, NC
- Post 6060 William Clarence Jackson Post in Elizabeth City, NC
- Post 4809 Tidewater Post in Norfolk, VA
- Post 3160 Ocean View Post in Norfolk, VA
- Post 2894 SSG Jonathan K. Dozier Memorial Post in Chesapeake, VA
- Post 1211 Back Bay Post in Virginia Beach, VA
- Post 392 General MacArthur Memorial Post in Virginia Beach, VA
Registrar's Corner
Membership Renewal Cycle Notifications
The National Council of Scouting America will send communications to members as their membership nears the time for renewal. Communications will begin 60 days from expiration date.
Renewal Communication Sequence:
- 60 Days Out: Renewal Email
- 45 Days Out: Renewal Text
- 30 Days Out: Renewal Email
- 15 Days Out: Renewal Text
- Expiration Day: Renewal Email and Renewal Text
- Seven Days After: Renewal Email
- 15 Days After: Renewal Text
Safeguarding Youth Parents' Guide Video
As Scouting America continues to invest in youth safety, a Safeguarding Youth Parents’ Guide video has been released, which will also be sent directly to the parents/guardians of new members.
This new asset aims to share key aspects of Scouting America’s Safeguarding approach with new parents while encouraging them to take the full Safeguarding Youth Training and join the journey with their child.
The video does not replace the written Parent Guides, but instead acknowledges that people absorb information in different formats. Please watch the video, share it with parents and volunteers, and encourage others to share it as well.
Popcorn
Looking for a way to fund an awesome program for your Scouts? The annual Popcorn Sale is here to help!
Eight Things To Do in October
- Sign up to assist with delivery on Thursday, October 2.
- If your unit placed a “Re-Order,” sign up for a pickup time on Friday, October 3 or Saturday, October 4.
- Pay for the unit’s September order at Re-Order pickup or by Saturday, October 4 at 2 PM, whichever comes first.
- Place the unit’s final popcorn order by Wednesday, October 29.
- Submit the 2025 Popcorn Prizes & Military Donations form by October 29 for the third round of recognition.
- If your unit needs to return product, make the return no later than Wednesday, October 29 at 5 PM.
- Make the final unit invoice payment by Wednesday, October 29 at 5 PM.
- Sell popcorn!
Getting Started
It is not too late for your unit to participate in the 2025 Popcorn Sale!
- Conduct “take order” sales. Scouts can make personal sales to family, friends, and neighbors. Units have until October 29 to order the product needed to fill take orders, with delivery in mid-November. The sales flyer is available here, or contact the district executive to get the unit’s sales kit.
- Participate in online sales. Online popcorn sales are an easy way to earn money for your unit, with no product handling or money handling required! The customer orders and pays online, with free shipping straight to the customer. The online sale is slated to continue until November 23. Units earn 30% commission on online sales, and each Scout receives a unique Seller ID to ensure credit goes to the right unit. Sell online at prpopcornstore.com. If you do not know your Scout’s Seller ID, please contact the Unit Popcorn Kernel.
Contact your District Popcorn Kernel for help getting started.
Now Hiring
ScoutReach Program Aide
Tidewater Council is seeking an enthusiastic, dependable, part-time ScoutReach Program Aide to help deliver engaging afterschool Scouting programs to youth in Portsmouth and Norfolk public schools. This role plays a vital part in ensuring that children in underserved communities experience the fun, leadership development, and values that Scouting offers.
Programs are held Monday through Wednesday from 3-6 PM, with occasional weekend outings. Flexible scheduling may be available. Applicants must be over 18, and a Scouting background is preferred.
Summer Camp Staff Opportunities
Join the team at Pipsico Scout Reservation!
Are you ready to make a difference next summer and create unforgettable experiences for Scouts and fellow staff members? Pipsico Scout Reservation is looking for enthusiastic and dedicated individuals to join our team! Whether you’re passionate about outdoor education, adventure programming, or supporting behind the scenes, we have a role for you.
Positions Available
- Camp Director
- Program Director
- Camp Commissioners
- Area Directors: Huskanaw, Aquatics, Waterfront, Pool, Nature, Scout Craft, Heritage, Handicraft, Shooting Sports, Climbing, Trading Post, PEX High Adventure Program
- Dining Hall Manager
- Medic/Health and Safety Officer
- Program Staff
- Kitchen Crew
- Camp Counselors
- Administrative Support
Why Work at Pipsico?
- Gain valuable leadership and teamwork skills.
- Enjoy the beauty of the outdoors while making lasting memories.
- Be part of a vibrant and supportive Scouting community.
Albemarle 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 Bill Lawrence at [email protected].
Development Corner
Join the Finance Committee - Help Make a Difference with Scouting America Tidewater Council!
Do you have a few hours to share your time and talents in support of local Scouting? The Tidewater Council Finance Committee is seeking dedicated volunteers who are ready to make an impact behind the scenes and help grow and sustain the Scouting movement in our community.
We are seeking individuals with skills and interests in areas such as:
- Good handwriting – to help craft meaningful, handwritten thank-you notes to our donors.
- Microsoft proficiency – to assist with tracking, organizing, and preparing financial-related documents.
- Creative writing – to write engaging thank-you letters, donor communications, and newsletters that highlight the great work happening in Scouting.
- Registered Scouter status – or willingness to become registered, to fulfill Scouting America requirements while supporting the committee’s mission.
This is a wonderful opportunity for volunteers who enjoy thoughtful, detail-oriented work and who believe in the power of Scouting to shape future leaders. Your contributions will help us thank supporters, keep donors engaged, and ensure the financial health of Tidewater Council.
Whether you’re a longtime Scouter or someone looking for a meaningful way to get involved, we would love to have you join us!
If interested, please contact Christy Cooper at 208-597-6044 or [email protected] to learn more about joining the Finance Committee.
Together, we can make a difference for the Scouts of Tidewater Council!
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.
Scout Shop
Fall Uniform Sale
From August 1 – December 23, 2025, shop for a uniform and save!
Get 10% off the purchase of uniform bottoms with the purchase of coordinating uniform top. This applies only to full price uniform items.
Shop Local
Shop local at the Tidewater Council Scout Shop!
Did you know that all proceeds from the local Scout Shop directly benefit Scouting America Tidewater Council? When you shop local, your dollars make a difference for youth right here in Virginia and North Carolina.
Every dollar you spend in the Tidewater Council Scout Shop goes back into the programs that your Scouts are learning in, growing in, and becoming incredible human beings. When you welcome new families to your unit, please ask them to shop locally. Our staff are always available to help anyone new to the program, and we make finding everything you need easy.
Remember: Shop Local!
Scout Shop Hours
The Scout Shop’s next holiday closing is November 11 for Veterans Day.
Program Ideas
October
- Kids Music Day: October 3
- World Space Week: October 4-10
- Work on the Space Exploration or Astronomy merit badges.
- Work on the Sky is the Limit Adventure for Tigers.
- Learn about astronauts who were youth Scouts.
- Frugal Fun Day: October 4
- A Scout is thrifty. Discuss what it means to be thrifty.
- Have Scouts brainstorm activities that are both frugal and fun – and then choose one for a unit, den, or patrol outing.
- National Stop Bullying Day: October 8
- The idea that a Scout should treat others as they want to be treated—a Scout is kind—is woven throughout the programs and literature of Scouting America. When a Scout follows the principles of the Scout Oath and Scout Law, bullying and hazing situations should never occur.
- Have youth watch the age and rank-appropriate Personal Safety Awareness videos.
- Review and share Scouting America’s Bullying Awareness resources with Scouts and families.
- For adults, take Safeguarding Youth Training.
- Review Scouting America’s Social Media Guidelines for valuable information on internet safety and youth protection when using social media.
- National New Friends Day: October 19
- Invite a friend to visit a Scout meeting or event.
- Make a card or another gesture of friendship to new members in your Scout unit.
- International Artist Day: October 25
- Visit a local art museum or gallery.
- Work on an art-related merit badge, such as Animation, Art, Graphic Arts, Photography, Pottery, or Sculpture.
- Encourage Scouts to use their creativity in an art project.
November
- Family Stories Month
- Invite Scouts to come up with questions or prompts to ask their family members at holiday gatherings.
- Work on the Genealogy or Family Life merit badges.
- Encourage Cub Scouts to discuss their families’ faith traditions as they work on the rank-specific Family & Reverence Adventure:
- Lion: Lion’s Pride
- Tiger: Tiger Circles
- Wolf: Footsteps
- Bear: Fellowship
- Webelos: My Family
- Arrow of Light: Duty to God
- Veterans Day: November 11
- March in the Tidewater Veterans Day Parade.
- Attend a Veterans Day ceremony.
- Place American flags on veterans’ graves.
- Invite a veteran to be a special guest speaker at a unit meeting.
- Make thank you cards for veterans.
- World Kindness Day: November 13
- A Scout is Kind. Discuss the sixth point of the Scout Law.
- As a den or patrol, plan ways to show kindness.
- National Hiking Day: November 17
- Work on the Hiking merit badge.
- Work the rank-specific Cub Scout Adventure for outdoor exploration:
- Lion: Mountain Lion
- Tiger: Tigers in the Wild
- Wolf: Paws on the Path
- Bear: Bear Habitat
- Webelos: Webelos Walkabout
- Arrow of Light: Outdoor Adventurer
- Go on a hike!
Community Engagement
2025 Tidewater Veterans Day Parade: Honoring Vietnam Veterans
The 2025 Tidewater Veterans Day Parade will be a special opportunity to honor Vietnam War veterans, with the commemoration of the 50th anniversary of the Vietnam War. This year’s event will include The Moving Wall that honors those who passed in the war.
Any Vietnam War veterans who are interested in being a key component of the Scouting America Tidewater Council parade contingent should contact [email protected] to learn more.
2026 Virginia DWR Archery Open
The Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources (DWR) invites the archery and conservation community to participate in the 2026 DWR Archery Open. The second annual competition will take place Saturday, January 10, 2026 in Richmond, Virginia.
Registration is now open at dwr.virginia.gov/archery-open.
Community Care Assistance
Does your family need assistance accessing community resources? Tidewater Council is a partner agency with United Way of South Hampton Roads and Albemarle Area United Way, as well as a member of the Unite Us Hampton Roads United Coordinated Network and NCCARE360. For coordinated care referrals, please contact us. You may also visit NC 211 or 2-1-1 Virginia for assistance finding resources.
Volunteer Opportunities
Visit our Volunteer with Local Scouting webpage for information on additional volunteer opportunities.
Scouts in Action
Congratulations to the new Eagle Scouts in August!
We want to hear from you! Send stories, photos, and videos of your Scouts in action to [email protected] (with parental permission, of course).