Table of Contents
Upcoming Events
Popcorn Training
July 12 & July 17
Join us to learn about the 2023 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 that is best for you!
- Wednesday, July 12 at 6:30 PM
- Monday, July 17 at 6:30 PM
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.
PLUS units attending training will be able to pick up their sales kits (tasting kits, sales flyers, banners, envelopes, and tote bags) and will be the first to learn about Food Lion Show & Sell opportunities.
This training will be offered both in-person at the Mary Jayne Breeden Council Service Center and virtually. For questions, contact Pam Samples at popcorn@tidewaterbsa.com.
Path to Eagle Training
July 15
The path to the Eagle Scout rank is comprised of many steps. Get a map to the trail before beginning the journey.
The Advancement Committee will hold a Path to Eagle Training on Saturday, July 15 at 10 AM at the Mary Jayne Breeden Council Service Center, 1032 Heatherwood Drive, Virginia Beach, VA 23455.
Learn:
- What to bring to the council to get an Eagle application verified
- Who should pickup the verified application
- What happens after the Board of Review
- What to bring to the council to start the national approval process (after the Board of Review)
- Who should pickup the Eagle certificate and presentation kit after national approval
- What palms are and how to award them
This training is free and registration is not required. For questions, please contact georg.dahl@cox.net.
Scout Night with the Edenton Steamers
July 15
Join us at Historic Hicks Field in Edenton, NC on July 15 to cheer on the Steamers as they take on Catawba Valley!
Admission packages include a ticket, patch, and picnic meal consisting of a hamburger, hot dog, chips, and drink for $15.
There is also 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.
Scouting for Blood Drive
August 2
Did you know that one donation of blood can save up to three lives? Or that every two seconds, someone in the U.S. needs blood? Tidewater Council is partnering with the American Red Cross to host a blood drive through the Pint-Size Hero program. This program introduces youth to the components of blood and the importance of blood donation. Scouts have the opportunity to demonstrate leadership by recruiting blood donors, hosting drives, and engaging in the community.
WHEN:
Wednesday, August 2, 2023
WHERE:
Tidewater Council
Mary Jayne Breeden Council Service Center
1032 Heatherwood Drive
Virginia Beach, VA 23455
TIME:
1-6 PM
MAKE AN APPOINTMENT:
There are two easy ways to schedule your appointment:
1. Visit redcrossblood.org and use the sponsor code “TidewaterBSA” in the “Find a Blood Drive” field.
2. Make your appointment on the American Red Cross Blood Donor App.
CONTACT:
Nicole Moga
704-564-5565
Nmoga149@yahoo.com
Princess Anne District Fall Camporee
October 20-22
The 2023 Princess Anne District Fall Camporee is coming to Camp Kiwanis at Pipsico Scout Reservation this fall!
Get ready for an adventure-filled weekend with:
- Scout skills and puzzles led by older Scouts
- Saturday night cookoff
- Potluck cracker barrel for youth and adults
- Saturday night campfire conducted by the Princess Anne chapter of the Blue Heron Lodge
For questions, please contact Sam Grinvalsky at sgrinvalsky@gmail.com or 757-639-7214. Save the date – registration is coming soon!
Basic Adult Leader Outdoor Orientation (BALOO)
October 21-22
Basic Adult Leader Outdoor Orientation (BALOO) is a one-and-a-half day course that introduces leaders to the Cub Scout outdoor program. BALOO is designed for leaders interested in adding a camping component to their pack activities.
BALOO consists of an online pre-requisite component and an overnight, hands-on practical. The course teaches BSA’s Cub Scout level camping policies and the necessary tools to help units carry out a successful camping experience. When a Cub Scout pack or Webelos den camps, a minimum of one adult who has completed this training must be present on the overnight experience.
Save the date for the next BALOO course on October 21-22 at Camp Moonyah in Chesapeake. Registration opens on August 23.
News
Popcorn
Looking for a way to fund an awesome program for your Scouts? The annual Popcorn Sale is here to help!
Seven Reasons Why Your Unit Should Sell Popcorn
- Fund your program year and defray costs for Scouting families.
- Tidewater Council offers some of the highest commissions in the BSA.
- Tidewater Council provides great prizes to reward Scouts.
- Teach Scouts salesmanship and the value of earning their own way.
- Scouts build camaraderie and learn communication skills.
- Participation in the Popcorn Sale may help Scouts meet certain advancement requirements.
- A team of volunteer leaders and council staff is here to support you.
Seven Things Your Unit Should Be Doing Now to Get Started
- Identify the Unit Popcorn Kernel.
- Sign up for the sale at pecatonicariverpopcorn.com using Council Key 596TWC. Even returning Unit Popcorn Kernels will need to “Create Unit Profile” the first time they access this site for the fall 2023 sale.
- Attend Popcorn Training. There are two training opportunities available: Wednesday, July 12 and Monday, July 17.
- Read the Popcorn Guide.
- Develop the unit budget and fundraising goals at the unit’s annual program planning meeting.
- Set up Show & Sells.
- Plan and promote the unit kick-off.
Resources
Did your unit miss Popcorn 101 for new kernels? You can view the recording on the Popcorn Sale webpage. Make sure to review the 2023 Popcorn Guide while you’re there too!
Do you need help with any aspect of the sale? We have a great team of District Popcorn Kernels who are here to help you! You can find their contact information here.
Scout Shop
With summer in full swing, the Scout Shop continues to supply all your summer Scouting needs…uniforms, camping equipment, and fun activity kits.
Camping Equipment
Camping equipment is still well-stocked with backpacks, sleeping bags, pillows, and tents. Mosquito netting is vital for a decent night’s sleep. We have two kinds that fit over a cot or sleeping bag. The white netting is 180 count fine mesh for $16.99, and the green netting is 240 count ultra-fine mesh for $19.99. We also carry the Pesky organic mosquito repellent in a 4 oz. bottle ($9.99) and the Pesky itch away (1 oz. for $4.99). Don’t go camping without mosquito protection when you can get it all here!
Games
Our game aisle has great ideas for those rainy summer days or long road trips. The Jumbling Tower ($11.99), Chess ($9.99), 10 Essentials ($14.99), Camp Travel Edition game ($14.00), and Brave the Elements ($13.99) are fun for home and easy to take on a trip. We also have the Kidzlabs ($12.99) and the Smithsonian 30X Telescope ($34.99) for your science buffs!
Performance T-Shirts
NEW this summer are the BSA Performance T-Shirts. These polyester moisture-wicking T-shirts help keep you dry, dry quickly when wet, and are perfect for camping. They come in heather blue, gray, and grape-leaf green, and sell for $24.99. Come in and pick up a few while they are still in stock.
Hiking
Hiking is a big deal in the summer, and our Thorlo Hiking socks will give the extra padding and comfort needed for long days. Prices range from $18.99 – $19.99. Your feet will thank you!
Shipping
We continue to ship orders on Wednesdays and Fridays by USPS. Just call (757-497-2688) or email polly.fugate@scouting.org.
Scout Shop Hours
Our next holiday closings are:
- July 1-7. We will reopen on Saturday, July 8.
- September 2-4 for Labor Day Weekend.
Have a safe and happy 4th of July!
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.
Distracted Driving
As many Scout units and families prepare for summer travel, be sure to ensure drivers are focused on safety.
Distracted driving is considered “any activity that diverts the driver’s attention away from driving,” according to the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration. The distractions can include a wide range of a driver’s or passenger’s personal actions or activities while in a vehicle. Even if a driver is only trying to keep Scouts in their seats while the vehicle is in motion, that is a distraction. Distracted driving can have deadly consequences.
Scouting's Barriers to Abuse
Scouting’s Barriers to Abuse and associated FAQs have been updated to reflect the changes that will take effect on September 1, 2023. Please review and share these resources.
Independence Day Safety
As our community prepares to celebrate the 4th of July holiday, please be sure to keep safety top of mind. Use and share these safety resources.
- Travel Safely:
- Fireworks: The safest way to enjoy holiday pyrotechnics is to attend a professional show.
- Practice Food Safety:
- Stay Hydrated and Cool:
- Take Precautions Around Water:
Summer Reading
Visit your local library this summer! Scouts can participate in great summer reading programs presented by their local library, and maybe even work on the Reading merit badge too.
Awards Spotlight
Messengers of Peace
The World Organization of the Scout Movement (WOSM) created Messengers of Peace in 2011 to encourage Scouts around the world to step up and do what they can to make the world a little better.
Messengers of Peace aims to:
- Promote a culture of peace and dialogue for mutual understanding
- Promote service initiatives led by Scouts
- Support the development of young people affected by conflict situations
- Provide further connection to the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals
- Connect Scouts around the world in a global network of 20 million Messengers of Peace
Two new levels of Messengers of Peace recently have been added to recognize those Scouts who choose to lead a project that is substantially larger.
- Messenger of Peace Award (purple ring): This is the first award of the BSA’s Messengers of Peace Program, and is earned by Scouts around the world who take part in Messenger of Peace service projects for two or more hours.
- Messenger of Peace Champion (blue ring): This award recognizes members who not only actively participate in serving their local communities, but also organize and inspire those around them to do the same. The Messenger of Peace service project must have at least ten service hours.
- Messenger of Peace Ambassador (yellow ring): This is the highest award in the BSA’s Messengers of Peace Program, recognizing members who go above and beyond to serve their local communities and promote a culture of service.
Award requirements, project ideas, FAQs, award applications, the program guide, and more resources are available at scouting.org/international/messengers-of-peace.
Council Duty to God Award
The Council Duty to God Award was created to recognize registered Scouters who have demonstrated an exemplary history of transformational leadership in supporting and promoting the spiritual foundation of Scouting at the local council level. It acknowledges the unswerving dedication to faith, fellowship, and service of those whose character embodies the moral principles and shared ideals of the Boy Scouts of America (BSA).
The award distinguishes Scouters who selflessly work to prepare youth for life by perpetuating the merit and legacy of a Scout’s duty to their faith. Nominations are open to candidates from all faiths and religious groups.
Exchange Student Scouting
Have you ever considered hosting a foreign exchange student? As active Scouters or parents of Scouts, would you like to host a foreign exchange student who is also a Scout in their home country?
International Experience (iE), a non-profit student exchange organization, is currently seeking Tidewater Council Scouting families to host exchange students for August 2023 until June 2024.
If interested in hosting or learning more, contact Tracy Mabry, North East Regional Director of International Experience at t.mabry@international-experience.net, 757-427-1964, or 808-372-2597
Matthis
Matthis, a 15-year-old male Scout from Germany, is seeking a Scouting family to host him from August 2023 until June 2024.
Self-Description: I believe in God and visit church weekly. My hobbies are Scouting, gymnastics, and swimming. I’m into fashion and rap music from the 80s and 90s. I’m so impressed by the artists, their story, and music. I’m also really interested in cars. I love Oldtimers and also modern cars. Cars from the 20th century just have something about them. I also love meeting my friends.
Hobbies: I’m interested in Oldtimer cars, hip hop music from the 90s, and fashion. In my free time, I do gymnastics and swimming, but in general I’m a person who likes all sport activities. I’m also a Scout; I meet my group once a week and we do camps in the summer break or on weekends. I like being outside with my friends and spending time with them.
Activities: Gymnastics, swimming, bicycling, drawing, fashion design, listening to pop music, religious activities, Scouting, sewing
Puwit
Puwit, a 16-year-old male Scout from Thailand, is seeking a Scouting family to host him from August 2023 until June 2024.
Self-Description: I think I’m calm, kind, easy-going, and sometimes can be nervous. I like music and I like to play musical instruments.
Hobbies: I would like to watch a basketball match or NBA game, and I would like to go to any concert once in my life.
Activities: Basketball, table tennis, track and field (running), band, playing musical instrument(s), Boy Scout, stage band
National Scout Jamboree Patches
On behalf of Tidewater Council and Blue Heron Lodge, there is a unique opportunity for the public to purchase National Jamboree contingent patches. Purchases of these collectible sets will help provide scholarships, tents, gear, and travel expenses for Scouts and leaders attending the 2023 Jamboree.
Tidewater Council Jamboree Shoulder Patches (JSP) celebrate the bountiful tidings of the Chesapeake Bay, Albemarle Sound, and Pamlico Sound. The patches highlight the state saltwater fish of North Carolina (the red drum) the state saltwater fish of Virginia (the striped bass), and the blue crabs of Tidewater’s waters. The staff JSP shows the Jefferson scallop, which can be found on the shores of Pipsico Scout Reservation along the James River.
Order the patch sets online at councilstuff.com/596-2023Jambo
There are two bundles available:
- All four Jamboree Shoulder Patches and the center patch for $35 per set
- All four Jamboree Shoulder Patches and the center patch, PLUS two OA flaps for $50 per set
Patch orders will be available for pick-up in the Tidewater Council Scout Shop in early July. To request that patch sets be shipped, please change the delivery method from “Pickup at Council Service Center” to “Ship to My Address” at checkout.
Purchasers will be contacted by email when their order is ready for pick-up.
Quantities are limited – order today!
Cub Scout Recruiting
Race to Scouting with Cub Scouts this fall!
The Membership Committee (and Scoutcar driver Bobby Katz) are developing great resources to help recruit new Cub Scouts this fall.
District executives will reach out to each Cub Scout pack to inform them about fall recruiting resources and to help build each pack’s custom recruiting plan.
Community Engagement
Celebrate Freedom Event: July 3
Scouts, Scouters, and parents are invited to volunteer with Chesapeake Parks, Recreation and Tourism at the annual Celebrate Freedom event. Hand out freebies and help to recruit new Scouts. Stick around for the evening and enjoy patriotic music and fireworks! Class A uniforms are recommended.
If interested, please contact Mike Fererra at Mike1926@gmail.com.
Wreaths Across America Mobile Education Exhibit: July 6
The Daughters of the American Revolution, Adam Thoroughgood Chapter, is sponsoring a stop of the Wreaths Across America Mobile Education Exhibit National Tour in Norfolk on July 6.
The event, which is free and open to the public, will take place at Nauticus (1 Waterside Drive) from 10 AM – 4 PM. There will be a special “Welcome Home” Vietnam Veterans Ceremony at 11 AM.
The goal of the Wreaths Across America Mobile Education Exhibit is to bring communities together and teach patriotism while remembering the service and sacrifice of our nation’s heroes. The mobile exhibit includes interactive exhibits, short films, and shared stories.
National Night Out: August 1
National Night Out is an annual community-building campaign that promotes police-community partnerships and neighborhood camaraderie. Check with local civic groups, neighborhood organizations, and chartered organizations for opportunities for Scouting units to get involved. This is a great way for Scouts to be involved citizens in the community, and for units to show off what Scouting has to offer!
VBCPS Back-to-School Care Fair: August 12
Virginia Beach City Public Schools will host the Back-to-School Care Fair on Saturday, August 12 from 10 AM – 2 PM at the Virginia Beach Convention Center. Tidewater Council will participate as one of the community partners. If interested in assisting with recruitment and activities, please contact Pam Samples, Princess Anne District Membership Chair, at pasamp42@gmail.com.
International Coastal Cleanup Day: September 16
International Coastal Cleanup Day (ICCD) is one of the world’s largest annual preservation and protection events and volunteer efforts for the ocean, waves, and beaches.
If interested in participating in a cleanup event at the 17th Street Oceanfront Entertainment Park on Saturday, September 16, please contact Pam Samples.
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.
Sentara 3D Mammo Van
The Sentara 3D Mobile Mammo Van is coming to northeastern North Carolina next week.
- Friday, July 7 at the Pasquotank County Library in Elizabeth City
- Saturday, July 8 at Shiloh Baptist Church in Shiloh (Camden County)
See the event flyers for information on scheduling an appointment. If pre-registered, appointments take only 15 minutes to complete. Financial assistance is available to those who qualify.
VBthrive
Virginia Beach residents, VBthrive is an economic mobility program offering coaching and resources for mentoring, housing, employment and education, financial management, and wellbeing.
Help Wanted
District Executive Job Opening
Since 1910, Scouting has helped mold the future leaders of this country by combining educational activities and lifelong values with fun. The Boy Scouts of America believes and understands that helping youth puts us on a path towards a more conscientious, responsible, and productive society.
Today’s professional Scouters are a diverse group of men and women sharing a dynamic career offering independence, achievement, and stability. This is work that makes a difference, work that calls one to continual learning and challenge, work that offers solid compensation, benefits, and advancement.
If you or someone you know is interested in making a difference through a career in Scouting, please contact Bill Lawrence at bill.lawrence2@scouting.org.
Additional Volunteer Opportunities
Visit our Volunteer with Local Scouting webpage for information on additional volunteer opportunities.
Scouts in Action
Congratulations to some of the newest Eagle Scouts!
A local Scout will soon address U.S. Congress.
Jack S. from Troop 362 has been selected for the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation (JDRF)’s 2023 Children’s Congress. He is one of six representatives selected from the Commonwealth of Virginia, the only Delegate from Hampton Roads, and one of only 160 youth selected worldwide. Delegates of the Children’s Congress will address U.S. Congress on July 11. They also will meet individually with their Senators and Representatives to share their stories about living with Type 1 Diabetes (T1D) and to advocate for more research.
Jack was diagnosed with T1D at 15 months old. His twin brother, Bill, who is also a Scout in Troop 362, recently was diagnosed with T1D at age 14.
In addition to his community involvement through Scouting, Jack has organized JDRF fundraisers at his school for multiple years and participated in the JDRF One Walk at the Virginia Beach Oceanfront for 11 years. Jack has also spoken with other local Scouting units about how to support their Scouts with T1D.
Scouts from Troop 362 and Pack 382 supported Jack, Bill, and other families impacted by diabetes by volunteering at the JDRF One Walk in May. The Scouts helped JDRF set up the event, handed out water to the walkers, and helped clean up when the event was over.
Families from Pack 374 conducted a clean up of Dunwoody Park in Virginia Beach on June 3 in partnership with the Chesapeake Bay Foundation’s Clean the Bay Day. The 50 participants collected 610 pounds of garbage, restored natural areas, and made the park a better place for families in the community. Great job, Scouts!
Scouts from Troop 19, Troop 362, Troop 408, and Troop 417 were helpful at the “Recycling Zone” event at Larkspur Middle School on April 29. The event was one of the Earth Day events organized by Virginia Beach Parks and Recreation. Residents dropped off paint, batteries, household and pool supplies, and more than 3,500 pounds of documents to be shredded.
Members of the Executive Board represented Tidewater Council at the BSA’s National Meeting in May.
From left:
Executive Board Member Steven Smith
Executive Vice President John Scheib
Council Commissioner Erich Röetz
Scout Executive James Parnell
Council President Chuck Kubic
We want to hear from you! Send stories, photos, and videos of your Scouts in action to alison.harrison@scouting.org (with parental permission, of course).
