Table of Contents
Friends of Scouting
Friends of Scouting is Tidewater Council’s annual giving campaign. The Friends of Scouting campaign provides 20% of the council’s annual budget – that means 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. Tidewater Council’s goal is to raise $515,000 through Friends of Scouting in 2025.
Has your unit scheduled its 2025 Friends of Scouting presentation? It is a great opportunity to hear about some of the council’s highlights and accomplishments over the past year, and to illustrate to families how the program is funded. All units that hold a Friends of Scouting presentation will receive a special ribbon for their unit flag. Contact your district executive to schedule your presentation.
Campaign Progress as of February 27, 2025
Each district shares a portion of the overall goal:
Upcoming Events
University of Scouting
March 8
Scouting is a Game with a Purpose
All Scouts, prospective Scouts, leaders, parents, and volunteers are invited to attend Tidewater Council’s University of Scouting. This jamboree-style event offers interactive trainings and certifications, hands-on activities and adventures, merit badges and advancement opportunities, and personalized Scout quests to earn prizes and rewards.
Everyone has Something to Offer
Many hands make light work, and we want your help teaching a class, counseling a merit badge, leading a program station, and organizing the event.
Click here to volunteer.
Colleges
Earn your degree or your doctorate while studying Commissioner Science, Cub Scouts, Scouts BSA, and Older Youth Programs.
Classes include:
- First Aid/CPR/AED Certification
- Cooking
- Scouting Heritage
- Event Planning
- Unit Management
- Scouting Tools & Technology
- Recruiting
- Fundraising
- And more!
Academies - Bring the Whole Family!
- Dragon Academy will entertain Lions, Tigers, and younger siblings for a fun-filled day of adventure.
- Akela’s Academy welcomes Wolf, Bear, Webelos, and Arrow of Light Scouts for fun adventures while working on advancements.
- Huskanaw is a chance for new Scouts BSA members to master their Scoutcraft requirements.
- Merit Badge Academy offers a range of badges, including several required for Eagle Scout.
- Adventure Academy is an opportunity for older youth to prepare for high adventure and get involved with Venturers, Explorers, Sea Scouts, and International opportunities.
Who?
Everyone!
Event Details
University of Scouting will be held at Old Dominion University in Norfolk on Saturday, March 8.
Contact
For questions, contact Keegan Daley at TidewaterUniversity@gmail.com.
Den Chief Training
March 8
Den Chief Training is a program for members of Scouts BSA, Venturing, and Sea Scouting who are interested in serving as a leadership role model for Cub Scouts in a den. It covers the roles, responsibilities, and how to be an effective den chief.
Who?
Den leaders and den chiefs
Course Details
Den Chief Training will be held at University of Scouting at Old Dominion University.
Adult and Pediatric First Aid/CPR/AED Training
March 8
The Adult and Pediatric 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 First Aid/CPR/AED valid for two years.
Who?
Ages 12 and older
Course Details
Adult and Pediatric First Aid/CPR/AED Training will be held at University of Scouting at Old Dominion University.
Cub Scout Leader Position-Specific Training
March 8
Learn all the basics of Cub Scout leadership in one course with separate mini-modules to deal with position-specific topics (den leader, Cubmaster, and pack committee). Get questions answered by experienced trainers and meet leaders from other units.
This training is required to be a trained Cub Scout den leader, assistant den leader, Cubmaster, pack committee member, or pack committee chair.
Who?
All Cub Scout leaders. Either the in-person or the online class is required to be fully trained.
Course Details
Cub Scout Leader Position-Specific Training will be held at University of Scouting at Old Dominion University.
Annual Leadership Breakfast
March 20
We are pleased to announce the keynote speaker for Tidewater Council’s 2025 Annual Leadership Breakfast:
Distinguished Eagle Scout Tom Jones!
Thomas D. Jones, PhD, is a veteran NASA astronaut, scientist, author, pilot, and speaker. In more than eleven years with NASA, he flew on four space shuttle missions to Earth orbit. In 2001, Dr. Jones led three spacewalks to install the centerpiece of the International Space Station, the American Destiny laboratory. He has spent fifty-three days working and living in space.
A Distinguished Graduate of the Air Force Academy, Tom piloted B-52D strategic bombers, earned a doctorate in planetary sciences from the University of Arizona, studied asteroids and robotic exploration missions for NASA, and engineered intelligence-gathering systems for the CIA. Tom is the author of seven space, aviation, and history books.
Dr. Jones’ awards include the NASA Distinguished Service Medal, four NASA Space Flight Medals, the NASA Exceptional Service award, the NASA Outstanding Leadership Medal, the NASA Exceptional Public Service award, Phi Beta Kappa, the Air Force Commendation Medal, and Distinguished Eagle Scout. Asteroid 1082 TomJones is named in his honor. In 2018, Tom was inducted into the U.S. Astronaut Hall of Fame.
To learn more about how you, your company, or your community group can host a table at the Annual Leadership Breakfast, please contact Christy Cooper at christy.cooper@scouting.org.
High Adventure Trekking Training
High Adventure Activities Retain Older Scouts
March 21-23
High Adventure training is coming this spring!
When youth reach their teen years, many other wholesome avenues open for them to pursue. Many of these new adventures can be very exciting and healthy for them, but they can also draw youth away from Scouting. What kind of program can keep older youth in Scouting through their formidable teenage years?
Sleeping out under a dark sky can be very exciting. So, where do you find one in our world of endless lighting? Believe it or not, there are still plenty of places to go. In Scouting, this is a high adventure program – a trek where youth go hiking, canoeing, even sailing, in the back country, a wilderness river or lake, or touring on the high seas.
Treks can be a long weekend activity, but, for best effect, they should last more than five days. Treks can involve going more than 50, 60, or even 70 miles walking, biking, paddling, or sailing. The trek should take Scouts a little out of their comfort zone and challenge them to complete the journey. These treks teach youth many skills that make them proficient in becoming responsible adults. When an adventurer wants their personal gear to serve them well on a high adventure trek, they learn how to bring only the appropriate gear, ensure it is waterproof, and take care not to lose any along the way. Isn’t that what adults must do in life?
Camping out under the stars is not the only exciting thing on a trek. Nature offers a lot of things to see and do, such as fishing, swimming, mountain climbing, sightseeing, viewing new and different animals and trees, cooking on an open fire… just to name a few.
Tidewater Council’s High Adventure committee is holding a training course to show participants how to conduct High Adventure treks in their own unit. The course will be conducted at Merchants Millpond State Park in Gates County, NC on March 21-23. The course will be taught by Scouters who have years of experience in conducting high adventure treks. Participants will learn how to conduct a unit high adventure trek, from filling out the necessary paperwork, to training youth the skills needed for a high adventure trip, to conducting a safe, fulfilling, and successful journey. The cost is $30.00 per person.
For further information, contact Jeffrey Irving at 757-646-5218 or jeffreyirving@cox.net.
District Pinewood Derby® Races
March 22
Albemarle District Pinewood Derby
Come one, come all, for a fun filled day of racing!
Who?
All racers of each rank from every pack in Albemarle District are eligible to race. Arrows of Light (AOL) who have just bridged to a troop are still eligible.
Family Fun Run races are an open class that will race after the qualified racers.
Race Details
The Albemarle District Pinewood Derby will be held at Holy Family Catholic Church in Elizabeth City, in the gym.
Join us on Saturday, March 22. Doors open at 9 AM for check-in, and racing will follow. There will be concessions and fun activities for youth between races.
The Albemarle District Pinewood Derby will utilize the official Tidewater Council Pinewood Derby Rules & Procedures.
Princess Anne District Pinewood Derby
Princess Anne District Cub Scouts, get ready to rev your engines at the 2025 District Pinewood Derby!
Who?
The top three finishers of each rank from every pack in Princess Anne District are eligible to race. Arrows of Light (AOL) who have just bridged to a troop are still eligible.
Race Details
The Princess Anne District Pinewood Derby will be held at the Church of Ascension’s Ascension Community Center in Virginia Beach. Join us on Saturday, March 22. Racing begins at 9:00 AM with Arrows of Light. If your Scout is racing, be sure to arrive early for check-in, inspection, and impound.
The Princess Anne District Pinewood Derby will utilize the official Tidewater Council Pinewood Derby Rules & Procedures.
Bayside District Pinewood Derby
On your mark… get set… GO sign up for the Bayside District Pinewood Derby!
Who?
The top three finishers of each rank from every pack in Bayside District are eligible to race. Arrows of Light (AOL) who have just bridged to a troop are still eligible.
Race Details
The Bayside District Pinewood Derby will be held at Baylake United Methodist Church in Virginia Beach. Join us on Saturday, March 22.
If your Scout is racing, review the Black Pug event for check-in times by rank.
The Bayside District Pinewood Derby will utilize the official Tidewater Council Pinewood Derby Rules & Procedures.
Three Rivers District Pinewood Derby
It’s that time of year again… Three Rivers District Pinewood Derby time!
This year promises to offer another awesome event. Visitors from Portsmouth’s Police, Fire, and Sheriff’s D.A.R.E. departments plan to attend to make it a fun day for all!
Who?
The top three finishers of each rank from every pack in Three Rivers District are eligible to race. Arrows of Light (AOL) who have just bridged to a troop are still eligible.
Race Details
The Three Rivers District Pinewood Derby will be held at Portsmouth Catholic Regional School in Portsmouth. Join us on Saturday, March 22. Introductions begin at 9:45 AM. If your Scout is racing, review the Three Rivers Pinewood Derby Driver’s License for car turn-in times.
The Three Rivers District Pinewood Derby will utilize the official Tidewater Council Pinewood Derby Rules & Procedures.
Inter-Religious Seder
March 23
Scouting America Northeast Illinois Council will present an Inter-Religious Seder, based on the Jewish Passover Seder, commemorating the Jewish people’s escape from slavery to freedom and the beginning of spring. They will read about these themes and discuss them in history and today. The Seder includes songs and discussions appropriate for all faith traditions. All ages are welcome. The fee includes a beautiful patch to commemorate the event.
To participate remotely, register as Online Scout Youth, Online Youth Guest/Friend, Online Scout Leader, or Online Adult Guest at scoutingevent.com/129-2025InterfaithSeder.
Online participants will login with a Zoom link that will be emailed before the event. Please note that the in-person event will be held in Vernon Hills, Illinois, and all times listed on Northeast Illinois Council’s registration page are in Central Time. The cost to participate is $8 each, which covers the cost of the patch.
Contact Howard Prager at 224-595-6432 with program questions, or Debi Geiger at debora.geiger@scouting.org with online registration and payment questions.
Princess Anne & Bayside Spring Camporee
March 28-30
The joint Spring Camporee for Princess Anne and Bayside districts is coming up this month. Sign up now!
The Camporee will be held at Izaak Walton Park in Chesapeake. Join us for:
- Scout Skills for younger Scouts
- Merit badges for all
- Youth cookoff on Saturday night with a potluck and judging
- Adult cookoff
- Order of the Arrow (OA) callout ceremony conducted by the Princess Anne Chapter of Blue Heron Lodge on Saturday Night
If you are interested, have any questions, or would like to come out and teach a merit badge on Saturday, please contact Mike Maruska at mikemaruska1179@gmail.com or 757-641-2373, or Chip Elliott at chipselliott@gmail.com or 858-386-6209.
2025 Tidewater Council Living Legends Nominations Due
March 29
Nominations are now open for 2025 Tidewater Council Living Legends.
Each year, Tidewater Council recognizes those volunteers who continue to provide significant leadership, service, and support to Scouting over many years and in many roles, and who continue serving after they may have been recognized in other traditional ways (Silver Beaver Award, District Award of Merit, etc.). Help acknowledge those volunteers for their continued contributions before their peers at the Tidewater Council Annual Recognition Banquet. Provide inspiration for others to also continue their valued service to Scouting.
Learn about Tidewater Council’s most recent Living Legends:
Nominations must be received no later than Saturday, March 29, 2025 to be considered. To submit a nomination, either:
- Email the completed nomination form to Jeff Bobrow at bobrowjl@verizon.net with subject line: “2025 Living Legends Nomination”
- Print the nomination form and submit the completed form to the Mary Jayne Breeden Council Service Center in a sealed envelope, labeled, “Attention: Living Legends Selection Committee”
Range and Target Activity Trainings
March - 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 will also offer 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 Shotgun Instructor Course: March 29 – Waitlist Only
- USA Archery Level 1 Instructor Practical Course: April 5
- NRA Range Safety Officer Course: May 10
- 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 shootingsports@pipsicobsa.com.
Albemarle Spring Camporee
April 4-6
At the Albemarle District Spring Camporee at Camp Maple in Barco, NC, Scouts will spend a fun-filled weekend practicing and demonstrating basic Scout camp skills. Units will compete to win by earning points during patrol and unit cooking-related challenges.
Save the date – registration is coming soon!
Three Rivers Spring Camporee
April 4-6
IN A SHORT, SHORT TIME FROM NOW
AT A CAMPSITE NOT TOO FAR AWAY
SCOUTS WILL BE COMPETING AND HAVING FUN…
Three Rivers District will hold its Spring Camporee at Camp Kiwanis at Pipsico Scout Reservation. Scouts will enjoy a variety of themed games and competitions as they compete for the Traveling District Trophy!
Introduction to Outdoor Leader Skills
April 5-6
Introduction to Outdoor Leader Skills (IOLS) provides leaders with basic outdoors skills needed to conduct the Scouts BSA camping program. Working in patrols, this hands-on course provides adult leaders the outdoors skills they need to lead Scouts in the out of doors.
Who?
IOLS is for all adults camping with units. This training is required to be a trained Scoutmaster and Assistant Scoutmaster.
Course Details
IOLS will be held during the Three Rivers District Spring Camporee.
Contact
For questions, contact Charlie Tate at cetate981@gmail.com.
Family Fun Day at Apex
April 6
Come have a fun day with your family at Apex Entertainment. Play games, drive cars, and putt around for a good cause. Proceeds support Scouting in our community.
Register online before the deadline or pay at the door on the day of the event.
$20 per person includes:
- One (1) round of Bumper Cars
- One (1) round of Mini Golf
- One (1) 60-Minute Non-Redemption Arcade Card
- Free bowling shoe rentals with the purchase of a bowling lane
$5 of each $20 ticket purchased will be donated back to Scouting!
Registration is now open on Black Pug.
Basic Adult Leader Outdoor Orientation (BALOO)
April 11-12
For a den or an entire Cub Scout pack to have an outdoor activity or go camping, the group must have a leader complete the Basic Adult Leader Outdoor Orientation (BALOO) training course. BALOO training is made up of two parts: an online course available on My.Scouting.org, and an in-person, hands-on course.
Who?
All Cub Scout leaders.
Contact
For questions, contact Andrew Huddle at startscouting@gmail.com.
Order of the Arrow Eastern Region Section 9 Conclave
April 25-27
Once each year, the seven Order of the Arrow lodges in the region (“Section E9”) gather at a Scout camp for a fun-filled weekend called Conclave.
The 2025 E9 Conclave will be held the weekend of April 25-27 at Camp Rock Enon in Gore, VA and is expected to be attended by nearly 800 Arrowmen.
To learn more, visit oae9.org/conclave.
Scouts Read Sacred Texts Worldwide
May 1
All Scouts, all youth-serving organizations, all faith youth groups, and their families are invited to participate in the National Day of Prayer on May 1, 2025 by reading a portion of their own sacred text.
During the inaugural Scouts Read Sacred Texts Worldwide in May 2024, 3,673 Scouts from 177 councils read from their sacred texts for 855 hours.
A commemorative patch will be available for purchase, and participation may help Scouts complete their rank-specific Duty to God advancement requirements.
2025 Wood Badge
May 2-4 and May 31-June 1
Wood Badge is the premier, global training for Scout leaders. It’s a course for enhancing leadership skills, for learning about team development, for networking, for personal growth and development, all rolled into two fun-filled weekends of camping and Scouting.
Whether you’re completely new to Scouting or you’ve been a member for decades, Wood Badge is for you.
Join us at awesome Pipsico Scout Reservation, where we will walk through the journey of a Scout, from Cub Scouting to Scouts BSA and Venturing. Explore ways you can enhance the Scouting program for today’s youth and beyond.
Learn more about the course through the Wood Badge Pre-Course Orientation available on My.Scouting. Wood Badge staff will available to answer questions at the upcoming University of Scouting event on March 8, or reach out to 2025twcwoodbadge@gmail.com.
We can’t wait to see you there!
Wilderness First Aid
May 17-18
It’s essential to have some basic principles of wilderness first aid and to know how to apply them, even under stress. Even knowing how to treat minor injuries can make a difference in an emergency situation, treating minor injuries and keeping serious casualties stable until further help is available. Although there are innumerable injuries and ailments that could affect wilderness adventurers, the basic principles of first aid can be applied to almost any situation.
All High Adventure Bases require at least one person (Philmont requires two) in each crew to be currently certified in Wilderness First Aid (WFA) or the equivalent and CPR from the American Heart Association, the American Red Cross, or equivalent. WFA is also recommended for any unit that is conducting backcountry hiking or camping trips.
Prerequisites
- Current CPR/AED certification is required to attend this course. Please bring your card to the course for verification.
- Be at least 14 years of age on or before the last scheduled session of the course.
- Please bring your backpack with wilderness first aid kit and camping supplies. You will use this gear for the various scenarios.
Who?
Everyone attending high adventure bases.
Contact
For questions, contact Frank Mikeals at frank.mikeals@verizon.net.
Popcorn 101 Training
May 21
Designed for new Unit Popcorn Kernels, Popcorn 101 training lays the groundwork for a successful popcorn sale.
- Great resource course for new Unit Popcorn Kernels, Committee Chairs, and Treasurers!
- Gain fundamental knowledge BEFORE the popcorn arrives!
- Chock-full of helpful tips!
- Entry-level information to help form a successful popcorn fundraiser, from start to finish!
- Networking opportunity that shouldn’t be missed!
- Come join us for a popping-good time!
This training will be offered both in-person at the Mary Jayne Breeden Council Service Center and virtually. For questions, contact Tony Montemurno at kerneltbaloney@gmail.com.
2025 Summer Camp
June - July
Pipsico Scout Reservation offers a wide variety of activities and programs that enable Scouts to earn awards while having fun!
Facilities include a 40-foot climbing and rappelling tower, air conditioned dining hall, swimming pool with ramp access for those with mobility needs, recently-renovated aquatics center, fully equipped health lodge, trading post, ranges for range and target activities, and more.
All Pipsico programs and facilities are Nationally Accredited.
What are you waiting for? Sign up for Summer Camp 2025 today and get ready for an awesome camping experience, at a beautiful property, with a friendly camp staff. Get a special discounted early bird rate when you register by April 14!
Week 1: June 22 – June 28
Week 2: June 29 – July 5
Week 3: July 6 – July 12
Week 4: July 13 – July 19
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!
Early bird registration is open now until April 1, 2025. Pack Coordinators should start signing up Cub Scouts now to get the best registration rate!
For current Cub Scouts, early bird pricing for a five-day camp is only $115!
(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.
For questions, contact Tiffany Bounds at Tnt8593@yahoo.com.
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 baysidedaycamp.tidewaterbsa@gmail.com.
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 Andrew Huddle at Startscouting@gmail.com or Danielle Smith at danielle.shank03@gmail.com.
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 Andrew Huddle at Startscouting@gmail.com or Danielle Smith at danielle.shank03@gmail.com.
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 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 Kirstin.pitko@cpschools.com.
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 steven.d.dewey@gmail.com.
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, Tnt8593@yahoo.com.
2025 Choose Your Own Adventure Cub Family Camp
July 25-27
Choose Your Own Adventure Cub Scout Family Camp is a two-night campout aimed at letting units choose their own events and go at their own pace. Are your Scouts mighty adventurers, or more geared to a relaxing outdoor excursion? Main attractions will be available and will require a unit reservation. Other adventures await and are self-guided and self-paced. The more adventures you tackle, the greater chance of reward.
Save the date! Registration is coming soon.
National Scout Jamboree
July 22-31, 2026
The next National Scout Jamboree will be held on July 22-31, 2026 at the Summit Bechtel Reserve in West Virginia! The National Scout Jamboree is a gathering of thousands of members of Scouting America from across the nation.
Start early in gauging interest in attending and planning fundraising so Scouts can take advantage of this unique opportunity. For assistance in planning unit fundraising, check out the Camp Card sale or contact the district executive.
Reserve your spot for the adventure of a lifetime now with a $100 deposit!
News
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 (Aquatics, Shooting Sports, Climbing, and more)
- Kitchen Crew
- Camp Counselors
- Administrative Support
- Commissioner Team
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.
Scout Shop
March into Scouting!
As we “March” into Scouting events this month, remember that the Scout Shop has everything you need to prepare! Many events happen in March, including District Pinewood Derbies, Arrow of Light crossovers, and even early spring camping.
Support New Scouts
SCOUT LEADERS: As you welcome new Scouts, please let them know what they need to purchase (such as neckerchief color, troop number, shoulder loops, handbook), as well as what they do not need to purchase, since many troops provide some of these things.
At the Scout Shop, we can help with the basic uniform needs, but we do not know the information specific for each troop. Please help your new families have a positive shopping experience!
2025 Scouts BSA Requirements Book
The 2025 Scouts BSA Requirements handbook ($7.99) is now in stock. This is a convenient handbook with all the current requirements for every Scout rank and all merit badges.
Scout Sunday Patches
Scout Sunday patches are back in stock. You may call (757-497-2688) to have them put on hold until you get here. Once we have sold out of this supply, we will order only for customers with special orders for them. Scouting America Outfitters (National Supply) usually runs out by April or sooner, so if you need them, order them soon.
Celebrating 115 Years of Scouting
Celebrate Scouting America and 115 years of Scouting! For collectors and uniformed Scouters alike, the Scout Shop has:
- Scouting America 115 Years coin ($19.99) encased in a black velvet box
- New 115 Years Scouting America belt buckle ($39.99) in a handsome, wood-encased red velvet box
- Scouting America 115 Years dark olive-green cap ($24.99)
- Scouting America sew-on labels are available for $1.99 (or free with purchase of a new uniform shirt)
- 115 Years of Scouting World Crest ring ($2.99)
Scout Shop Hours
Changes are coming to the Scout Shop in March!
Spring hours began on March 1, 2025:
Tuesday – Friday: 11 AM – 6 PM
Saturday: 10 AM – 2 PM
Sunday – Monday: Closed
There are no holiday closings for March; the next holiday closing will be April 18-19.
Position Changes
Please join us in welcoming Staci Van Kirk as the new Tidewater Council Scout Shop Manager!
Staci has been an employee with Tidewater Council for more than two and half years. She is the Cubmaster for Pack 24 and the Bayside District Membership Chair. Staci has many great ideas, and is excited to assist Scouting families and leaders in this new role.
Polly Fugate will continue to support the Scout Shop in a part-time position, so look for her in the store two days a week.
Shop Local
Remember to shop at the Tidewater Council Scout Shop so that money spent will STAY local. We continue to ship orders by USPS by emailing Staci.VanKirk@scouting.org or polly.fugate@scouting.org.
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.
Proper Hiking & Trekking Footwear
Proper footwear is important when hiking and trekking to ensure proper safety and foot support for the hiker. Proper footwear can also directly impact your safety and overall outdoor experience by preventing injuries and fatigue. The right shoes provide stability, support, and protection against potential hazards on the trail.
SAME STEM Camps
The Society of American Military Engineers (SAME) offers summer STEM camps for interested high school students (rising sophomore to rising senior, and at least 15 years old on the day they arrive at their respective camp). These hands-on, one-week camps offer STEM field exploration and dynamic activities, such as operating drones and remote-controlled underwater vehicles.
The Society of American Military Engineers Hampton Roads Post is offering sponsorships for up to twenty local students to attend a camp, including both the camp registration fee and reasonable travel expenses.
This is a not-to-miss opportunity for students interested in exploring STEM fields, building their resumes, being mentored by industry experts, and charting a course for future education and leadership!
Apply by March 12, 2025.
Tidewater Council High Adventure Challenge Award
The Tidewater Council High Adventure Challenge is a unique opportunity for a troop, patrol, or crew to enjoy an adventuresome experience that tests the limits of their camping knowledge – and expands it. Careful preparation and education can pay off in a challenging, safe, and fun-filled successful trek.
Guidelines for a High Adventure Challenge
- Prior to conducting the challenge, the youth challenge leader, accompanied by the adult challenge leader, will gain approval from the High Adventure Committee for the activities involved in the challenge. Contact Jeff Irving at Jeffreyirving@cox.net.
- Before any Scout or Scouter can participate in the high adventure activity, the unit leader will ensure that the participating Scouts have knowledge of the skills required to conduct the challenge.
- Conduct an outdoor high adventure challenge for a five-day (minimum) period during a calendar year.
- The troop/patrol will not have any off-challenge activity during the high adventure experience.
- The troop/patrol/crew will conduct a minimum of two weekend work-up sessions. A High Adventure Weekend Challenge will count for a work-up session if it involves a trek similar to the five-day High Adventure Challenge (e.g., a backpacking weekend trek and a five-day backpacking trek).
- The Challenge will follow the Guide to Safe Scouting.
- Menus must be prepared, and food purchased, by the youth.
- Practice Leave No Trace during any high adventure activity. Follow the Outdoor Code.
- A Tidewater Council High Adventure Challenge patch is available for ordering and purchasing from Tidewater Council’s Scout Shop for all Scouts and leaders who successfully complete the High Adventure experience.
- Examples of High Adventure treks:
- 50-mile canoe trek
- 50-mile Appalachian Trail hike
- Sail Chesapeake Bay, stopping at ports of call for five days
- C&O Canal trail 50-mile bike trek
- Attend one of Scouting America’s High Adventure camps
- Florida Sea Base trek during spring break
- NOTE: There is a Scouting America 50-Miler Award. If participants wish to earn both the 50-Miler Award and the High Adventure Challenge, the trek must also be conducted by the 50-Miler Award rules.
Guidelines for a High Adventure Weekend Challenge
High Adventure Treks involve learning and practicing advanced skills to successfully complete a five-day or longer trek. Tidewater Council wants to recognize Scouts and leaders who learn these required skills. High Adventure Challenge patches are awarded for completing a weekend trek conducted using the five-day challenge guidelines, except for the required five-day period. If the group subsequently completes the five-day challenge, a pin suitable for placing on the High Adventure patch will be awarded.
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 mustangron@aol.com and Wes Parker at wparker@pipsicobsa.com.
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
March
- National Nutrition Month
- Work on personal fitness and nutrition-related advancement curriculum:
- Fun on the Run (Lion)
- Tiger Bites (Tiger)
- Running with the Pack (Wolf)
- Bear Strong (Bear)
- Stronger, Faster, Higher (Webelos)
- Personal Fitness (Arrow of Light)
- Tenderfoot Rank (requirement 2)
- Second Class Rank (requirement 2)
- First Class Rank (requirement 2)
- Cooking merit badge
- Work on personal fitness and nutrition-related advancement curriculum:
- National Anthem Day: March 3
- Work on the American Heritage merit badge (requirement 3b).
- National Dentists Day: March 6
- Work on the Dentistry merit badge.
- National Napping Day: March 10
- Share the Nap On Safely Safety Moment at a unit meeting.
- Popcorn Lover’s Day: March 13
- Say thank you to the Unit Popcorn Kernel.
- Plan the unit’s sales strategy for the 2025 Popcorn Sale.
- Have Scouts role play sales techniques.
- Sign up for Popcorn 101.
- Enjoy a popcorn snack!
- International Day of Forests: March 21
- Plant a tree.
- Go on a forest hike.
- Work on the Forestry merit badge.
- Walk in the Sand Day: March 22
- Go for a hike on the beach.
- World Theatre Day: March 27
- Visit a local theater.
- Work on the Theater merit badge.
April
- National Farm Animals Day: April 10
- Work on the Animal Science merit badge.
- Visit a local farm or petting zoo.
- National Gardening Day: April 14
- Tend a flowerbed or garden for the unit’s chartered organization (with permission).
- Plant seeds.
- Visit a botanical garden.
- Work on the Gardening merit badge.
- Work on the Ready, Set, Grow Adventure for Lions.
- National Look Up at the Sky Day: April 14
- Camp under the stars.
- Work on the Astronomy merit badge.
- Spend time outdoors watching clouds or observing the sunset.
- Go bird-watching or work on the Bird Study merit badge.
- Volunteer Recognition Day: April 20
- Have Scouts make thank you cards or plan an activity to recognize volunteer leaders.
- Do a service project or volunteer activity.
- National Kids and Pets Day: April 26
- Visit or volunteer at an animal shelter.
- Work on the Pets merit badge.
- Work on the Dog Care merit badge.
- National Honesty Day: April 30
- Discuss the first point of the Scout Law: A Scout is Trustworthy.
Community Engagement
Sort-A-Rama
Join the Food Bank of the Albemarle for Sort-A-Rama on Wednesday, April 2, 2025 from 4-7 PM in Elizabeth City. Come together to package food, fight hunger, and have a great time as a team. Gather a team of up to 12 people and get ready for some friendly competition.
The minimum age is 12-15 accompanied by a parent or guardian, making this a great service opportunity for older Scouts. Register at afoodbank.org/events/sortarama.
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
Sixteen local female Eagle Scouts were honored at the third annual Examples of Success dinner in Virginia Beach on February 26.
Local business leader Barbara Lewis received the North Star Award at the event, recognizing her for her distinguished support of females in local Scouting programs.
Thank you to ABNB Federal Credit Union, Barbara Lewis, and all the community leaders who joined us in celebrating these outstanding young women!
Cub Scout Pack 164 braved the snowy streets for the annual Scouting for Food drive. The Cub Scouts distributed collection bags in Downtown Edenton and several neighborhoods where the Cub Scouts reside.
All donated food items will be given to the Edenton-Chowan Food Pantry, in partnership with Pack 164’s chartered organization, American Legion Post 40.
Thanks for supporting our community, Cub Scouts!
Brandon S., a sixteen-year-old Scout in Troop 471, led a team to support the nonprofit organization Rainbows and Reawakenings for Thoroughbreds (RRT) with his Eagle Scout service project.
RRT is located in Virginia Beach off Oceana Blvd. The nonprofit’s mission is to rehabilitate former racehorses for their new career and eventual new forever homes.
Brandon led a team to take down the dilapidated main fence and replace it with a new wooden one, using concrete to help set a strong foundation.
Thanks to all who came together to support Brandon in building a stronger community!
New Cub Scout Pack 153 held their first-ever Pinewood Derby.
Great job, Scouts, families, and leaders!
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).
