“EK” Electronic Knapsack – May 2, 2022

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. Friends of Scouting keeps the overall cost of Scouting affordable so all families can participate.

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 April 29, 2022:

Council Goal: $450,000
74.8%

Each district shares a portion of the overall goal.
Progress as of April 29, 2022:

Albemarle District Goal: $30,000
96.8%
Bayside District Goal: $185,000
59%
Princess Anne District Goal: $145,000
90%
Three Rivers District Goal: $90,000
75.6%

Upcoming Events

Bayside District Spring Camporee

May 13-15

Grab your bike or your hiking boots and make your way to Newport News Park for the Two-Wheel Trail-O-Ree!

Learn tips and tricks that competitive bike racers use when riding in the woods, including trail riding, handling uneven terrain without wrecking, keeping your bike running smoothly, and bike maintenance.

Come as a troop, patrol, or individual. Scouts BSA, Venturers, Sea Scouts, and Explorers from all districts are welcome to attend. Come for the fun and adventure, but leave with completions of select requirements for the cycling or hiking merit badges.

Albemarle District Appreciation Dinner

May 14

Join us at Shiloh Baptist Church on Saturday, May 14. At the Albemarle District Appreciation Dinner, the entire Scouting family comes together to celebrate the service of all of the volunteers in the district, and, in particular, those who made an outstanding impact in 2021. The event also will honor those Albemarle Scouts who earned the Eagle Scout rank in 2021. 

Registration ends May 7, so sign up now!

Basic Adult Leader Outdoor Orientation (BALOO)

May 14-15

BALOO training is an introduction to the Cub Scout outdoor program for leaders interested in adding a camping component to their pack activities. The course consists of an online prerequisite component and an overnight hands-on practical. Learn BSA’s Cub Scout-level camping policies and discover tools to carry out a successful camping experience. Completion of this course is mandatory for at least one adult on each pack or Webelos overnight experience.

The last spring 2022 BALOO course is scheduled for May 14-15 at Sleepy Hole Park in Suffolk.

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.

Scouting for Blood Drive

May 18

Did you know that one donation of blood can save up to three lives? Or that every two seconds, someone in the U.S. needs blood? Tidewater Council is partnering with the American Red Cross to host a blood drive through the Pint-Size Hero program. This program introduces youth to the components of blood and the importance of blood donation. Scouts have the opportunity to demonstrate leadership by recruiting blood donors, hosting drives, and engaging in the community.

WHEN:
Wednesday, May 18, 2022

WHERE:
Tidewater Council
Mary Jayne Breeden Council Service Center
1032 Heatherwood Drive
Virginia Beach, VA 23455

TIME:
2-6 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

Adult First Aid/CPR/AED Training

May 21

The Adult First Aid/CPR/AED course incorporates the latest science and teaches students to recognize and care for a variety of first aid emergencies such as burns, cuts, scrapes, sudden illnesses, and how to respond to breathing and cardiac emergencies for victims about 12 years and older. Successful students will receive a certificate for Adult First Aid/CPR/AED valid for two years. This is a blended learning course; you must complete the online portion before taking one of the skills demonstration sessions. There will be three sessions offered on May 21 at the Mary Jayne Breeden Council Service Center.

Popcorn 101

May 24

Designed for new Unit Popcorn Kernels, this training lays the groundwork for a successful popcorn sale. Join District Popcorn Kernel Tony Montemurno, either in-person at the Mary Jayne Breeden Council Service Center or virtually via Zoom, to learn tips and best practices to organize and make the most of your popcorn sale.

Backpack to Retention

May 26

Spring is here! It is almost the end of another school and program year. It is time to prepare to welcome new Scouts, new parents…new families!

Some of the most successful pack leaders in Tidewater Council are sharing their best methods for retaining and recruiting new Scouts.

Get some new tools to:

  • Plan Your Program Year
  • Build A Budget
  • Recruit Adult Leaders
  • Bring New Families

This training is absolutely free for anyone who wants to attend, but registration is required.

Join us on Thursday, May 26 at 6:30 PM, either virtually via Zoom or in-person at the Mary Jayne Breeden Council Service Center, 1032 Heatherwood Drive, Virginia Beach, VA 23455. RSVP at 247scouting.com/forms/596-backpack.

Wood Badge Association Meet and Greet

May 31

Tidewater Council’s Wood Badge Association helps develop highly trained and experienced Scouters, who are focused on bringing the mission of Scouting to all youth. To learn more, join the WBA for a meet and greet on Tuesday, May 31 at 7 PM at Q-Master Billiards, 5612 Princess Anne Road, Virginia Beach, VA 23462.

To join the WBA, visit scoutingevent.com/596-2022WBA.

Trainer's EDGE

June 4

Trainer’s EDGE is BSA’s trainer development course. This training helps Scouts and Scouters put the EDGE training model into practice and gain self-confidence through hands-on experiences. Trainer’s EDGE develops the platform skills of a new trainer and updates current trainers with the latest methods, principles, and technologies.

This courses is not only for district training staff, but also for youth and adults who have responsibilities to instruct others. Some of the many leadership roles that will benefit from attending Trainer’s EDGE include:

  • Youth:
    • Troop Guides
    • Patrol Leaders
    • Instructors
    • National Youth Leadership Training (NYLT) staff
    • Summer camp staff
  • Adults:
    • Pack Trainers
    • National Youth Leadership Training (NYLT) staff
    • Wood Badge staff
    • Merit badge counselors
    • Summer camp staff
    • Roundtable commissioners and staff

Introduction to Outdoor Leader Skills (IOLS)

June 10-11

IOLS provides adult leaders with foundational outdoor skills. Working as patrols, participants in this hands-on course learn the practical outdoor skills they need to lead Scouts in the out-of-doors. Upon completion, leaders should feel comfortable teaching Scouts the basic skills required to obtain the First Class rank.

Join us at Camp Baker in Chesapeake on June 10-11 for IOLS.

Flag Day Celebration

June 11

American Legion Great Bridge Post 280 invites the Scouting community to a special Flag Day Celebration on June 11 at 5 PM. The event will take place at American Legion Post 280, 469 North Battlefield Blvd., Chesapeake, VA 23320.

This year’s event celebrates the 99th anniversary of the drafting of the Flag Code by the American Legion and 68 other fraternal, civic, and military organizations. Congress subsequently approved and codified the code in 1942. 

BSA units are invited to enjoy refreshments with the Legion Officers and to participate in a ceremony supporting a dignified disposal of several retired flags. 

RSVP to Post280FlagDay@gmail.com.

Scout Night with the Norfolk Tides

June 17

Take me out to the ballgame! Cheer on the Tides as they take on the Syracuse Mets at Scout Night with the Norfolk Tides on Friday, June 17.

Tickets and camping vouchers are available at the Scout Shop during regular store hours.

OA Summer Camp Work Day at Pipsico

June 18

Join us at Pipsico Scout Reservation to spruce-up and set-up camp for our summer season!

OA Summer Camp Set-Up Work Day is a chance for everyone to help ready Pipsico Scout Reservation for summer camp. The work day is June 18 from 9 AM – 4 PM. Lunch will be provided by some of the amazing Summer Camp Cook Crew to all who come up to provide service to camp. In order to ensure we have enough food for all our volunteers, please register now on Black Pug.

Cub Scout Day Camps

June - July

It is time to round up the Cub Scouts for the Day Camp Rendezvous in the Wild Wild West. This annual outdoor summer experience is full of fun, excitement, and adventure. The marshal and sheriff are busy planning crafts, STEM activities, and games for each Day Camp. Registration is now available on Black Pug. Please register as a unit, not individuals.

Day Camps

Early Bird Registration is now available for 5-Day Day Camps! Sign up by May 15, 2022 to get the discounted rate.

DatesTimesLocation & Registration LinkCamp Director (Marshal)Program Director (Sheriff)
June 20-248:30 AM – 4:00 PMTabernacle Baptist Academy, Virginia BeachTed GreenDavid Montoto
June 20-248:30 AM – 4:00 PMBurrows Memorial Baptist, NorfolkAmy DevaultMarianne West
June 27-July 18:30 AM – 4:00 PMForest Park Church, Elizabeth CityTiffany BoundsCorie Stratton
Twilight Camps

Early Bird Registration is now available for 4-Day Twilight Camps! Sign up by May 15, 2022 to get the discounted rate.

DatesTimesLocation & Registration LinkCamp Director (Marshal)Program Director (Sheriff)
June 27-303:30 – 8:15 PMGreat Bridge Baptist, ChesapeakeKirsten MisfeldtJaime Tolentino
July 6-93:30 – 8:15 PMIzaak Walton League Park, ChesapeakeKirsten MisfeldtJaime Tolentino
July 11-143:30 – 8:15 PMCovenant UMC, ChesapeakeKirsten MisfeldtJaime Tolentino

Summer Camp at Pipsico

June 26 - July 23

Climbing Director Matt Russell welcomes you for summer camp at Pipsico Scout Reservation.

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 along the southern Chesapeake Bay
  • 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

Summer Adventure Programs are almost full. Sign up today so you don’t miss out on your adventure!

Scout Night with the Edenton Steamers

July 2

Tickets are now available for Scout Night with the Edenton Steamers! Join us at Historic Hicks Field in Edenton, NC to cheer on the Steamers as they take on the Virginia Beach Sea Dogs. Admission packages include a ticket, a patch, and a picnic meal consisting of a hamburger, a hot dog, chips, and a drink for $15. There is an opportunity to sleep on the field following the game – camping vouchers are available for an additional $5 each. For questions, please contact Brian Chappell at bchappell14@gmail.com.

Popcorn Training

July 5 and July 12

Join us to learn about the 2022 Tidewater Council Popcorn Sale! 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 those who attend in-person, we plan to have promotional items available for pick-up.

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! If you choose to attend virtually, the Zoom link will be sent one week prior to the training date.

Cub Scout Family Resident Camp

July 29-31

Resident Camp at Pipsico Scout Reservation is an overnight camping experience for the whole family. Cub Camps are open to every level of Cub Scouting, plus siblings, family members, and den chiefs.

Pipsico is the perfect spot for your family to have a great outdoor adventure. It has 916 acres of land and one and a half miles of unspoiled beachfront on the banks of the James River in Surry County, Virginia. It is home to bald eagles, blue herons, wild turkeys, deer, and much more. On the beach you will find fossilized remains of sharks and whales amongst shells and fossils pouring out of the cliffs on the beach. Facilities include an air-conditioned dining hall, a swimming pool (with handicap access), shower and latrine facilities, a fully equipped health lodge, a trading post, shooting ranges, and more.

Discover your adventure this summer at Pipsico!

Wood Badge Critter Picnic

August 6

Registration is now open for the Wood Badge Critter Picnic on August 6, 2022 at Camp Moonyah in Chesapeake. All Scouters, Wood Badgers, and families are welcome. Enjoy food, fun, and fellowship while learning about how Wood Badge and NYLT can benefit your unit’s program.

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)

Princess Anne District Fall Camporee

October 21-23

Are you ready to Escape to the Wilderness? Adventure on to the Princess Anne District Fall Camporee at Camp Kiwanis, Pipsico Scout Reservation to practice skills from the First Aid, Wilderness Survival, and Pioneering merit badges. The morning will include skills instruction, with competitions following in the afternoon. Participants will receive partial completions in each of the three merit badges. The Princess Anne chapter of the Order of the Arrow will lead the Saturday night campfire.

Merit Badge Counselors Needed

The Camporee Committee is looking for merit badge counselors (MBCs) for the First Aid, Wilderness Survival, and Pioneering merit badges. MBCs will have the opportunity to help plan the activities. If you are interested, please contact Chris Noble at PASPRINGCAMPOREECHAIR@gmail.com.

Three Rivers District Fall

Camp-O-Ree & Cub-O-Ree

October 21-23

Get All Fired Up for the Three Rivers District Camp-O-Ree and Cub-O-Ree this fall at Izaak Walton League Park. Scouts will enjoy fire safety, fire building, special visitors, and – of course – a camp fire! 

If you would like to assist with the event, please contact Mike Z. at 3rcamping@gmail.com.

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

The National Scout Jamboree, Scouting’s flagship event, is one-of-a-kind. Over the course of ten summer days, tens of thousands of members of the Boy Scouts of America from across the country gather together to explore all kinds of adventures—stadium shows, pioneer village, Mount Jack hikes, adventure sports, and more—in the heart of one of nature’s greatest playgrounds. With 10,000 acres to explore at the Summit, there is no shortage of opportunities to build Scouting memories.

Tidewater Council is organizing a contingent to attend this awesome event in West Virginia. Youth and adult participants register at both the national site and the council site for payment. For questions, please contact Tidewater Council’s Jamboree Contingent Chair, Erich Röetz.

News

Scout Shop

As spring wraps up and we look forward to summer, come visit the Scout Shop for uniforms, program materials, “Class B” T-shirts, and all things camping! We have a new supply of items to enhance your camping fun! Some of the common items we carry are:

If you have any questions about our inventory, give us a call at 757-497-2688.

Silva Compasses

Silva compasses are now in stock. Made in Sweden, these high-quality compasses are an asset whether you’re hiking or part of a wilderness survival group. The Silva Starter is easy for beginners and the price is right at $15.99. The Silva Explorer Pro for more experienced hikers is $34.99.

Boonie Hats

Boonie hats are back! These wide-brimmed olive green hats offer excellent sun protection with 50+ UPF, come with an adjustable chin strap, are washable, and well worth the price of $29.99.

Infinity Backpacker Mugs

NEW in stock is the Infinity Backpacker mug engineered by GSI, BPA-free. This lightweight mug, priced at $11.99, comes with an insulated sleeve and the web handle collapses flat for easy packing. The sealable sip lid keeps contents warm or cold and free from spills and critters. It holds 17.5 fluid ounces but weighs only 3.5 ounces, a huge advantage for hikers.

Price Changes

Price changes from National BSA Supply are in progress at Scout Shops across the country. Prices have changed across the board, ranging from $0.20 to $8.00 depending on the item, and including every department. A new uniform price list is available in the store on the front table, or by emailing polly.fugate@scouting.org.

Shipping

We continue to ship orders by USPS if you call (757-497-2688) or email your order to the Scout Shop Manager (polly.fugate@scouting.org).

Scout Shop Hours

Our next holiday closing will be May 28-30 for Memorial Day weekend.

BSA Safety Moment

It is recommended to include a BSA Safety Moment during meetings to inform Scouts and parents and keep everyone safe. Numerous downloadable BSA Safety Moments are available here.

Annual Health and Medical Record

The Scouting adventure, camping trips, high-adventure excursions, and having fun are important to everyone in Scouting—and so is your safety and well-being. Completing the Annual Health and Medical Record (AHMR) is the first step in making sure you have a great Scouting experience.

This Safety Moment will help you review the AHMR—even if your knowledge of medicine is limited to basic first aid. Learn to effectively manage and apply the information to ensure your unit’s families are healthy and safe.

Child Abuse Prevention

While April was National Child Abuse Prevention Month, Scouting emphasizes youth protection year-round. Actions you can take to help prevent child abuse include:

Registrar's Corner

Transfers

If transferring between councils, it is best to use the online platform at my.Scouting.org

(See this document for detailed instructions.) 

This is the easiest option and can be done one of two ways:

    1. Parent initiates the transfer for their Scout, then receiving unit accepts in Application Manager.
    2. Pack initiates the transfer, then receiving unit accepts in Application Manager.
      *Note: This process is the same anytime Scouts are switching units, whether from pack to troop, pack to pack, or troop to troop. The previous unit or parent initiates, and the receiving unit accepts.
How to Print Membership Cards
  • Unit Key 3 Leaders
    • Log in to My.Scouting.org
    • Click on “Menu”
    • Select the unit
    • Click on “Roster”
    • Select whose membership cards you wish to print
    • Click on “Print”
    • Click on “Membership Cards”
  • For Yourself
    • Log in to My.Scouting.org
    • Click on “Menu”
    • Click on “My Profile”
    • Under “Registrations,” select “Download Membership Card”
How to Print the Unit Charter Certificate
  • Log in to My.Scouting.org
  • Click on “Menu”
  • Click on “Organization Manager”
  • Click on “Download Charter Certificate”

Camp Card Sale

Camp Cards are cards that offer valuable discounts to local retailers. Some of the discounts are single-use, while many can be used throughout the year. Scouts sell the cards to family, friends, neighbors, and community members. Units earn a sales commission, which they can use to pay for camping adventures.

Sign up for the sale and reserve your unit’s card order by submitting this form. For questions, please contact your district executive or Susan Miley-Petrehn.

2022 Vendors - North Carolina Camp Card
  • 3 Amigos
  • The Adventure Park at Virginia Aquarium
  • AMF
  • Edenton Coffee House
  • H2OBX
  • Harris Teeter
  • Hungry Panda
  • iFly Virginia Beach
  • Itza Boutza Pizza
  • Jumpmasters Fun Park
  • Latitude Climbing
  • LJ Beaners
  • Pass the Salt Café
  • Pigman’s Bar-B-Que
  • Tractor Supply Co.
  • Wendy’s
2022 Vendors - Virginia Camp Card
  • The Adventure Park at Virginia Aquarium
  • AMF
  • Big Apple Pizza
  • Escape Room Virginia Beach
  • Harris Teeter
  • iFly Virginia Beach
  • Latitude Climbing
  • Nothing Bundt Cakes
  • Tractor Supply Co.
  • Wendy’s

Journey to Excellence

The 2022 Journey to Excellence (JTE) unit scorecards are now available. Please use these scorecards for annual program planning and continuous improvement – to help ensure the unit program is awesome! For assistance, contact the unit commissioner.

New Scouts BSA Joining Requirements

Effective April 18, 2022, the Scouts BSA joining requirements have changed. They now state that a young person can be a member of Scouts BSA if they meet any of these requirements below.

New Scouts BSA joining requirements (effective April 18, 2022)

  • At least 10 years old, currently in the fifth grade and register on or after March 1
    or
  • At least 10 years old and have earned the Arrow of Light Award
    or
  • At least 11 years old (but not yet 18)

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.

Help Wanted

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.

Volunteer with the Membership Team

The Tidewater Council Membership Team is looking for volunteer assistance from Spanish-speaking Scouters, to speak to potential chartered partners and help form units to serve our Hispanic community.

If you are interested in volunteering or have any questions, please contact Dave Bussiere at dave.bussiere@gmail.com or 757-575-4117.

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.

Volunteer Photographers

Want to be in the middle of the action and create lasting memories for years to come? Tidewater Council is seeking volunteer photographers to capture the excitement of local Scouting events. If interested, please contact alison.harrison@scouting.org.

National Scout Jamboree Service Team

What makes a Jamboree awesome? What is the key to a world-class, life-changing experience? It’s you. If you love Scouting and being part of a high-performing team that delivers amazing experiences, then the 2023 National Scout Jamboree Service Team wants you. The 2023 National Scout Jamboree is all about moving Scouting forward.

Additional Volunteer Opportunities

Visit our Volunteer with Local Scouting webpage for information on additional volunteer opportunities.

Scouts in Action

Troop 303 of St. Matthew’s School celebrated Ryan S.’s Eagle Court of Honor on April 24 at The River Club at River Walk on the Elizabeth in Chesapeake. Congratulations!

Albemarle District hosted more than 120 Scouts and Scouters at its District Camporee. Scout skills events offered fun and friendly competition. Units also participated in a service project and collected supplies for the local animal shelter.

Service project
Cooking
Visit from Council President Chuck Kubic
Scout Skills Competition

Tidewater Council had a strong turn out for the NATO Festival Parade on April 30. Members of Troop 1, Troop 362, Pack 496, Troop 1791, and several Cub Scout families participated for the first time in the 2022 NATO parade. They joined long-time parade participant Troop 24 from Norfolk, who did a terrific job of representing the United States with their USS Wisconsin Battleship float.

There are too many people to thank, but Troop 24’s work on the United States float was a team effort. Troop 24 Committee Chair Ken Cason redesigned the bridge of the USS Wisconsin and had it ready for Sea Trials minutes before the parade! Eight Scouts from Troop 24 waved from the float, and numerous others carried banners.

The Scouts earned service hours and completed a Citizenship in the World requirement by carrying banners for various countries, helping the parade disassembly team, and visiting with guests of other countries in the International Village after the parade.

The Scouts enjoyed the experience and represented the United States and the City of Norfolk in such a positive manner. Great job!

Albemarle District and Troop 150 welcomed the newest Scouts BSA members, who just crossed over from Pack 150. Congratulations!

It is a rite of passage for Arrow of Light Scouts of Pack 24 to cross over a rope bridge and become Scouts of Troop 24. The Scouts tied lashings and knots to construct the bridge at First Landing State Park. The pack leaders assisted the Scouts across the first half of the bridge and Troop 24 Scouts assisted them for the second half. Senior Patrol Leader Richard H. welcomed eleven new Scouts into the troop, and Andrew G. did a fantastic job as Den Chief.

Pack 158 blended fun, community engagement, and recruiting with a visit with the fire department.

Pack 117 had a visitor at their pack meeting from the Outer Banks Center for Dolphin Research. They had fun and learned about bottlenose dolphins that live in the area.

Pack 991 enjoyed a family campout at Northwest River Park with fishing, hiking, canoeing, paddle boating, mini golfing, skits, crafts, and – of course – s’mores!

Tidewater Council volunteer leaders, board members, staff, and Scouts had a great time at Albemarle Area United Way‘s annual bocce tournament in Elizabeth City on April 30.

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