Table of Contents
Upcoming Events
National Scout Jamboree Meet & Greet
June 8
Interested in being part of something big at the 2026 National Scout Jamboree?
Scouts and parents who are interested in the Jamboree, and those who are already registered, are invited to a Meet & Greet on Sunday, June 8 at 1:00 PM at Camp Moonyah, 612 Greenwing Drive, Chesapeake, VA 23323.
Scouts should wear their favorite Scout camp shirt and bring a camp chair, water bottle, and rain gear (if the weather is inclement).
Parents are welcome to attend a parent information session that will occur at the same time.
For questions, contact the Tidewater Council Jamboree Committee at [email protected].
2025 Cub Scout Day Camp
June - July
Cub Scout Day Camp is the place to be this summer for a fun-filled Invention Convention!
Cub Scouts of all ranks will have fun while learning at Day Camp. In a program designed to spark their creativity, new and returning Cub Scouts will get to create cool gadgets like a Sailing Car, conduct experiments powering cars with balloons, and continue fundamental skill development with the Cub Scout program.
Current Lions who will be Tigers this fall (rising 1st graders) will have their own special program too, working on the elective adventure “Designed by Tiger.”
Webelos and Arrow of Light Scouts (rising 4th and 5th graders) will get to create their very own toolbox to use for years to come and have a blast creating their very own battery-powered robot. All this, and so much more!
Seven camps are planned for summer 2025. There’s no time to waste; get those gears cranking and REGISTER NOW!
For current Cub Scouts, regular pricing for a five-day camp is only $140!
(And pricing for the special three-day Portsmouth camp and two-day OBX camp is even lower!)
Invite a friend! Not-yet-Cub-Scouts can take advantage of a special registration offering: Register for Day Camp for $235 and get a one-year Scouting America membership.
Elizabeth City Day Camp (Albemarle): June 9-13
Albemarle Day Camp will be held at Holy Family Catholic Church in Elizabeth City. Camp runs from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM, with Friday wrapping up early at 1:00 PM.
Online registration has closed. For questions, contact Tiffany Bounds at [email protected].
Virginia Beach Day Camp (Bayside): June 16-20
Bayside Day Camp will be held at Bayside Masonic Lodge #218 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 [email protected].
Virginia Beach Day Camp (Princess Anne): June 23-27
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 Danielle Smith at [email protected].
Virginia Beach Twilight Camp (Princess Anne): July 14-18
Princess Anne Twilight Camp will be held at the Columbian Club in Virginia Beach. Camp runs from 3:00 PM to 8:00 PM Monday – Friday.
For questions, contact Danielle Smith at [email protected].
Portsmouth Day Camp (Three Rivers): July 18-20
Three Rivers will hold a special three-day camp at Portsmouth Masonic Lodge in Portsmouth. Camp runs from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM on Friday, 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM on Saturday, and 9:00 AM to 12:30 PM on Sunday.
For questions, contact KC Pitko at [email protected].
Chesapeake Twilight Camp (Three Rivers): July 21-25
Three Rivers Twilight Camp will be held at Great Bridge Baptist Church in Chesapeake. Camp runs from 3:00 PM to 8:00 PM Monday – Friday.
For questions, contact Steven Dewey at [email protected].
OBX Day Camp (Albemarle): July 25-26
For fun in the Outer Banks, Albemarle will offer a special two-day camp at Kitty Hawk United Methodist in Kitty Hawk. Camp runs from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM Friday and 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM Saturday.
For questions, contact Tiffany Bounds, [email protected].
Scout Night with the Norfolk Tides
June 13
The Tides welcome Scouting families to enjoy an evening at the ballpark as they take on the Nashville Sounds on Friday, June 13, 2025 at 6:35 PM at Harbor Park!
Tickets and camping vouchers are now available for Scout Night with the Norfolk Tides! 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 12 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.
For questions, contact [email protected].
Opening Ceremony
To participate in the opening ceremony, Scouts and leaders must have purchased their ticket through the Scout Shop, be in uniform, and be lined up before 6:00 PM at Harbor Park’s first base entrance (located closest to the Ferry Dock and near Hits at the Park Restaurant).
A Tides staff member will lead participants from the first base ramp to the field gate. Scouts will parade from the first base field gate, behind homeplate, and exit at the third base field gate. After exiting the field, participants should head directly to their seats.
While on the field:
- STAY ON THE WARNING TRACK.
- DO NOT step onto the grass.
- DO NOT play around in the dirt or kick the warning track dirt onto the grass.
- Only uniformed Scouts and leaders will be allowed inside the gate. NO PARENTS ARE ALLOWED ON THE FIELD.
Patches
To collect your 2025 Norfolk Tides Scout Night Patch, please go to the Smithfield Information Center, located on the concourse behind homeplate, at any point before the game is over.
Camping
A camping voucher is needed for each person attending the sleepover. Camping vouchers are only available at the Tidewater Council Scout Shop. Non-Scout siblings must be potty-trained.
If you are staying the night, please prepay for parking ($7.00) in Lot C, as this will be the most convenient. After the game, campers may move their vehicles to Lot A (by the water) to unload camping gear and park for the night. Prepay for parking at eventpass.justpark.com/harbor-park-stadium-parking/listings/events.
- DO NOT use tents with stakes. Stakes will damage the field, and Tides staff members will check to ensure no stakes are being used.
- NO tarps are permitted on the field/underneath tents.
- NO gas lanterns are permitted.
- NO bug spray is permitted.
- Stay in the outfield grass area ONLY. DO NOT go on the infield.
- Use the trash cans located on the warning track. Pick up all trash.
- DO NOT dump ice on the field. If you need to dump ice, wait until the morning and dump it in the parking lot after exiting the field.
- Wake up call is at 6 AM. DO NOT exit Harbor Park until 6 AM. Pack up and exit the field no later than 6:30 AM.
- Restrooms are located on the 1st Base concourse. Return to the field immediately after finishing in the restroom. NO ONE should be in the seating bowl unless using the restroom.
- It’s lights out after the movie.
- Be courteous to those around you. Help make the camping experience enjoyable for everyone!
Beaver Day
June 14
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 14, 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. Some of the projects include:
- Setting up tents and cots
- Moving boats to waterfront and by the pool for cleaning
- Moving canoes to the waterfront
- Preparing staff cabins
- A list of projects will be available for troops looking for service hours and/or conservation hours.
- Volunteers with specialized skills not mentioned above, please contact Mike Maruska, the Council Maintenance Chair, to coordinate a project.
As a thank you to volunteers, camping will be available at no cost on Friday night. Lunch will be provided for all who sign up.
To sign up for this AWESOME event and help kick off a great summer for the Scouts, please visit scoutingevent.com/596-BeaverDay25. For questions, contact Council Maintenance Chairman Mike Maruska at 757-641-2373 or [email protected].
2025 Summer Camp
June - July
Bring a Friend. Cut the Cost. Double the Fun.
Know someone who’s ready for adventure? If you’re already a Tidewater Council Scout and you recruit a friend to sign up and join Scouts in Tidewater Council, you BOTH can attend a select week of summer camp at Pipsico Scout Reservation for HALF PRICE!
That’s right – $212.50 off EACH!
Total savings: $425.00!
This offer is only valid for base camp registration for Week 2 (June 29 – July 5, 2025) and Week 3 (July 6-12, 2025). For questions, please contact [email protected].
What's waiting for you at Pipsico?
- Premier first-year Scout program
- More than 50 merit badge choices
- High adventure programs
- 1.5 miles of shoreline on the historic James River
- 40-foot climbing and rappelling tower
- Air conditioned dining hall with world class meals
- Swimming pool with ramp access
- Recently renovated aquatics center
- Fully equipped health lodge
- Trading post
- Range and target activities
- Campfires
- The legendary Pipsico Tree
- New friendships and unforgettable memories
Spots are filling up fast – so rally your crew, grab your gear, and get ready to make this summer EPIC. Are YOU ready for the best week of your summer? Let’s make memories at Pipsico!
Sign up today. Recruit a friend. Camp for half.
Popcorn Training
June 26 & July 8
Join us to learn about the 2025 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!
- Thursday, June 26 at 6:30 PM at Moyock United Methodist Church
- Tuesday, July 8 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 Alford at [email protected].
2025 Choose Your Own Adventure Cub Family Camp
July 25-27
Get ready for the ultimate family camp adventure at Pipsico Scout Reservation, where YOU are the hero of your own story!
Want to attend for the day? Visit for the day on Saturday for only $30 per camper (Saturday lunch included)!
Want to stay one night? Choose either Friday night or Saturday night for only $60 per camper (three meals included)!
Want to stay two nights? Stay for the full weekend for only $75 per camper (four meals included)!
Want to rent a tent and cots? Order a t-shirt? Purchase an extra patch? We have those options too.
Choose your own adventure! That’s what makes this camp so unique. Enjoy swimming, gaga ball, range and target activities, campfire fun, skits, and so much more! This campout is all about making unforgettable memories with family and friends that will last a lifetime. Don’t miss out!
Range and Target Activity Trainings
August - November
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 Basic Pistol Course: August 9
- NRA Pistol Instructor Course: September 6
- NRA Range Safety Officer Course: September 27
- NRA Basic Rifle Course: October 4
- 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].
High Adventure Canoeing Training
September 26-28
Does your unit have a dynamic outdoor program that includes water sports activities? Have you taken a canoe trip with youth? Have you considered doing a weekend canoeing campout? How about a longer trip – a weeklong trip?
High Adventure programs bring out the best in youth. The first day is a bit of a struggle, but soon, their skill level improves, and they take up the challenge to complete the trip. High Adventure activities are a great way to retain older youth in a Scouting unit and deliver the promise of Scouting.
To undertake such a journey, every participant must learn the basic skills required. On September 26-28, Tidewater Council will provide training for participants to learn and understand the basic skills for canoe trips.
Course Curriculum
- Planning the trip
- Working a budget
- Making reservations
- Keeping costs affordable
- How to conduct work-up trips to ensure everyone is prepared to complete the trip
- Two nights of camping
- Two days of cooking
- And much more
Itinerary
Friday, September 26: The training will begin at Camp Moonyah in the Deep Creek area of Chesapeake.
Saturday, September 27: Participants will travel by canoe along the scenic Intercoastal Waterway. The trip will include transiting the locks at Great Bridge, and will end at Camp Baker on Centerville Turnpike. Participants will camp for the night at Camp Baker.
Sunday, September 28: The course will conclude around noon on Sunday.
Cost and Materials
The cost for the course is $35.00 per person. This fee includes food, canoe rental, course materials, and the camping fee.
Participants will bring their personal gear. A pre-meeting, with the date to be determined by participants, will include instructions on proper gear and how to waterproof.
Participant Qualifications
This course is designed for adults. A unit leader who registers for the course may bring one senior youth with them. Senior youth are the ones who would become crew leaders.
Space is limited. High Adventure trips are held in small groups, normally no more than twelve.
Contact
For further information, contact Jeffrey Irving at 757-646-5218.
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].
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.
News
New Safeguarding Youth Training
Scouting America has released a new comprehensive Safeguarding Youth Training (SYT) program.
The updated training represents a significant step forward in Scouting America’s multi-layered approach to youth protection and reinforces the commitment to creating the safest possible environment for young people. A portion of the training was filmed at Pipsico Scout Reservation, and members of Tidewater Council may recognize some familiar faces.
SYT is mandatory for all registered adult volunteers and has been developed with insights from leading experts in child safety, law enforcement, and child psychology. It incorporates the latest strategies for recognizing, responding to, and preventing various forms of abuse, including emotional, physical, and sexual abuse.
Key Features of SYT
- Comprehensive Focus: Safeguarding Youth Training reflects the more comprehensive nature of the training and its focus on safeguarding youth from all threats.
- Inclusive Content: The training covers a wide range of topics, ensuring volunteers are well-informed about potential risks and best practices for youth protection.
- Annual Refresher Courses: Recognizing the ongoing need for education and awareness, Scouting America will now require annual refresher courses, estimated to take 15-20 minutes, to keep youth protection knowledge current.
- Alignment with Best Practices: Scouting America regularly consults with experts to ensure its policies and training reflect the most up-to-date knowledge and prevention techniques in the field of youth safety.
- Focus on Prevention: The training emphasizes proactive measures to prevent abuse and create a culture of safety within Scouting.
Youth Protection Training (YPT)
The new Safeguarding Youth Training (SYT) replaces the prior Youth Protection Training (YPT) course.
For members who have taken YPT, the training expiration is either the expiration date on the training certificate or one year from the launch of SYT, whichever comes first. For example, a YPT training with an expiration date in July 2025 will still expire in July 2025. A YPT training with an expiration date in July 2026 will now expire in May 2026.
There is new material in the SYT course which could genuinely save the life of a youth – inside or outside of Scouting.
Scout Shop
New Merchandise This June
Shop local at the Tidewater Council Scout Shop – and check out new items available this month!
Cub Scout Sherpa Blanket
The new Cub Scout Sherpa Blanket has glow in the dark paw prints and the Cub Scout logo. It is micro plush on the front and Sherpa on the back. Cozy enough for couch lounging and big enough to provide warmth during the cool nights while camping, it’s a great gift for Cub Scouts moving up to the next rank!
Scouting America Tote Bag
The new Scouting America tote is a heavy duty, white and navy blue, canvas bag. It is great for leaders to carry their meeting essentials. Show off your Scouting America pride by coming in and getting the new bag.
Day Camp Essentials
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!
Shipping
Having a hard time getting to the Scout Shop? We are glad to ship orders by USPS. Just call us at 757-497-2688 or email [email protected]. We can fill the order, calculate shipping, and call you back for a VISA, Mastercard, or Discover credit card number.
Scout Shop Hours
The Scout Shop’s next holiday closing is July 1-5 for 4th of July week.
Scouting Safety Moment
It is recommended to include a Scouting Safety Moment during meetings to inform Scouts and parents and keep everyone safe. Numerous downloadable Scouting Safety Moments are available here.
Snake Bites
The nature of our outdoor programs puts Scouts in the natural habitats of a variety of venomous and non-venomous snakes. The venomous snakes that live in the United States include coral snakes and pit vipers (rattlesnakes, copperheads, and cottonmouths/water moccasins). Snakes will usually try to avoid humans, but may strike if they feel threatened.
Blue Heron Lodge Dues
This year, Blue Heron Lodge is giving out the amazing Council of Chiefs Year of Change Lodge Flap as a thank you – just for paying your dues!
To pay Lodge dues for 2025, visit: scoutingevent.com/596-OA2025Dues. More than 480 members have already paid their dues for this year.
If you are a member of another Lodge and would like to transfer into Blue Heron Lodge, please let us know. For questions, email Mike Maruska at [email protected] or Noel Falcon [email protected].
Registrar's Corner
Annual Grade and Program Rollover
- All records with grades will be advanced one grade. For example, all first graders will be advanced to second graders. Twelfth graders will be updated to no grade level.
- Cub Scout programs will advance to the next program. For example, all Lion youth will be advanced to Tiger youth.
Summer Camp Staff Opportunities
Join the team at Pipsico Scout Reservation!
Are you ready to make a difference this 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
- Program Staff
- 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.
Help Needed: Camp Moonyah Improvement Projects
Camp Moonyah has been an integral part of Tidewater Council’s camps for more than 85 years. As such, it has a rich history hosting functions, events, celebrations, and ceremonies encompassing all arenas of the Scouting program. Over the past many, many decades, dedicated volunteers have continually strived to improve the camp to ensure safe and enjoyable experiences for all. Even with past improvements, it is time to bring this facility into the 21st century.
Potable Water
Many thanks to a generous donor who has funded the potable water project!
Introduction of Electrical Power
Working with Dominion Power, bringing power into Camp Moonyah will require several measured electrical wire runs of 250’+ from a transformer located off property to the maintenance shed where the meter base would be located. Because of the distance, a 25kw transformer will be required to maintain a continual, safe load of power. The cost of connection to a power source, running a total of 500’+ of underground cable, the transformer, and other fees associated with this project will run from $10,000 – $12,000.
What's Next?
To achieve the success of these projects, we are reaching out to you in Tidewater Council to help fund the electrical power project either in full or in part. By doing so, you will ensure the continued success and growth of Camp Moonyah for decades to come.
For questions or to find out more about how you can support Camp Moonyah improvements, please contact Ron Misfeldt at [email protected] and Wes Parker at [email protected].
Development Corner
Sponsor a Tent at Pipsico Scout Reservation
Many of Pipsico Scout Reservation’s tents have been in service for 30 years. In order to continue to provide a high-quality camping experience for our Scouts, Tidewater Council is replacing 200 tents between 2023-2027.
Based on the recommendation of our Camping Committee, we are replacing the current wooden platforms and ridge pole system tents with new platforms and tents with aluminum-mounted frames. In addition to housing Scouts and keeping them dry, the new tents will exponentially decrease the time needed for tent setup and takedown. The cost of a new tent, platform, and frame is approximately $1,640 each. A contribution in any amount is appreciated, and will be designated to provide new tents at Pipsico.
Thank you for ensuring that our Scouts enjoy their camping adventures at Pipsico!
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, 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:
- Let’s Camp Lion
- Let’s Camp Tiger
- Let’s Camp Wolf
- Let’s Camp Bear
- Let’s Camp Webelos
- Outdoor Adventurer (Arrow of Light)
- Go camping!
- World Bicycle Day: June 3
- Work on the Cycling merit badge.
- Work on the Cub Scout rank-specific Cycling Adventure:
- Lion: On a Roll
- Tiger: Rolling Tigers
- Wolf: Pedal with the Pack
- Bear: Bears on Bikes
- Webelos: Pedal Away
- Arrow of Light: Cycling
- 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:
- Lion: Go Fish
- Tiger: Fish On
- Wolf: A Wolf Goes Fishing
- Bear: A Bear Goes Fishing
- Webelos: Catch the Big One
- Arrow of Light: Fishing
- Go fishing!
- Lightning Safety Awareness Week: June 22-28
- 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:
- Lion: Time to Swim
- Tiger: Tigers in the Water
- Wolf: Paws for Water
- Bear: Salmon Run
- Webelos: Aquanaut
- Arrow of Light: Swimming
- 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.
- Learn about astronauts who were youth Scouts.
- 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.
- Work on a World Conservation Award.
- Conduct a conservation service project.
Community Engagement
Free Fishing Days in Virginia
The Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources (DWR) will present Free Fishing Days on June 6-8, 2025. To increase angling opportunities, no fishing licenses will be required for recreational rod and reel fishing during that time. Learn more by visiting dwr.virginia.gov/fishing/free-fishing-days.
Need help getting started? DWR is hosting a Free Fishing Day event at Mt. Trashmore Park in Virginia Beach on Saturday, June 7. The event is free and no registration is required. Find the event details here.
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.
Complete the interest form at dwr.virginia.gov/archery-open to subscribe to event updates.
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
Scouts honored our nation’s fallen heroes on Memorial Day.
Members of Pack 207, Troop 259, and Troop 5259 participated in the 141st Portsmouth Memorial Day Parade – the longest running Memorial Day parade in the nation.
Max, Aurelia, and Francis K. of Pack 408, along with Three Rivers district executive Jon Murdoch, represented Scouting at Virginia Beach’s annual Memorial Day Ceremony.
The crowd was impressed by Webelos Scout Francis’s earnest interest in showing service to those who have fallen.
During a high adventure workup at Pipsico Scout Reservation, Scouts and leaders picked up trash on the James River shoreline.
The adventurers shared this advice for all Scouts and hikers:
- Always hike with a garbage bag.
- Just because you did not hike it in, doesn’t mean that you can’t hike it out.
- It’s easier to pick up litter when you first see it rather than trying to find it on your way back.
Thank you for keeping our waterways clean and doing a Good Turn at Pipsico!
Cub Scout Pack 125 did a Good Turn for their chartered organization. The Cub Scouts and families planted a pollinator garden at Holy Family Catholic Church, Elizabeth City.
Great job, Scouts! Thank you to the gardening expert parents who helped make the project possible!
Tidewater Council Commissioner Tim Briggs was honored with the Daniel Carter Beard Masonic Scouter Award on May 28 at Great Bridge Masonic Lodge. The prestigious national award recognizes Master Masons who have demonstrated outstanding service and dedication to youth through Scouting.
The Daniel Carter Beard Masonic Scouter Award is one of Scouting America’s Community Organization Awards, through which secular, national, and community organizations can recognize their members for voluntary service and achievement. The award is named for Daniel Beard, the first national commissioner of the Boy Scouts of America, who was a Freemason as well as a Scouter.
Congratulations, Tim!
(from left): Nicholas Johnson, valedictorian of Princeton University’s Class of 2020 and DoE Gold Award recipient; His Royal Highness, The Duke of Edinburgh; The Rt. Hon. Lord Peter Mandelson, UK Ambassador to the US; Simone N., Tidewater Council Eagle Scout and DoE Gold Award recipient; Oliver Christian, British Consul General to New York
Tidewater Council Eagle Scout and Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award (DoE) Gold Award recipient Simone N. met His Royal Highness The Duke of Edinburgh.
Simone was invited to a reception at the residence of the British Consul General to New York to participate in a two-person panel discussion about nontraditional education with the Deputy Chancellor of the New York City school system. The event was sponsored by the Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award USA, and Prince Edward, Duke of Edinburgh was the keynote speaker.
Simone was also one of four speakers at a dinner with His Royal Highness, the CEO of Bank of America, the CFO of Bank of America, and other dignitaries.
To cap off the experience, Julius Kramer, one of the two Vice Chairpersons of the 2024-2027 World Scout Committee, gave Simone and her father, Joel, a tour of the United Nations Headquarters.
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