Table of Contents
Upcoming Events
Scouting for Blood Drive
November 6
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, November 6, 2024
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
Workshop for Scouts: Unlock the Secrets to Scholarship Applications
November 7
Join Eagle Scout Spencer Long, founder of the BSA Alumni Educators Affinity Group, for a one-hour Zoom session to learn how to boost scholarship applications and stand out from the competition.
Spencer will provide an insider’s look at the National Eagle Scout Association (NESA) scholarship program, plus a deep dive into tips and strategies that can help youth stand out in any scholarship application.
Advanced registration is required.
Albemarle Merit Badge Weekend
November 8-10
Albemarle Merit Badge Weekend is an opportunity for all registered Scouts (ages 11+) and Scouters. Participants will be able to choose between one, two, or three merit badges to earn for the weekend. Some merit badges will be partials depending on time and requirements. The class schedule is available here.
Registration closes on November 6, so sign up today!
Tidewater Veterans Day Parade
November 11
All Tidewater Council Cub Scout packs, Scouts BSA troops, Sea Scout ships, Exploring posts, and Venturing crews are invited to participate in the 2024 Tidewater Veterans Day Parade and Ceremony at the Virginia Beach Oceanfront!
This year, the Veterans Day Parade will begin at 16th Street and Atlantic Avenue, and will proceed to the Tidewater Veterans Memorial on 19th Street across from the Virginia Beach Convention Center. Check-in and line-up begin at 8:00 AM with exact location to be determined. Scouts will get to see the entire parade and then step off as one of the last units in the lineup.
All units are requested to bring their American and unit flags. Scouts and leaders should be in uniform. Scouts are invited to remain for the 11:00 AM Memorial Service.
Register your unit to march in the parade and pre-order your patches no later than November 9, 2024. Registration is required, and a patch is available by pre-order only.
Cub College
November 16
Register now for Cub College! This annual training event will take place on Saturday, November 16 at Tallwood High School in Virginia Beach.
New Cub Scout Families and Leaders (Participants)
Learn more about Cub Scouting, make new friends, and gain valuable resources to help your Scouts get the most from the program. Topics include Cub Scout program updates, enhancing den meetings and outings, crafting exciting pack programs and ceremonies, and learning about resources available to help you succeed. We will also offer First Aid/CPR/AED certification and Cub Scout Rangemaster training. Bring a notebook, pen, water bottle, and enthusiasm!
Experienced Cub Scout Leaders (Staff)
Help train the next generation of Cub Scouts and leaders. We need your experience and expertise to offer the best program. If interested in volunteering as Cub College staff, please contact Bill Lawrence at bill.lawrence2@scouting.org.
Youth Academies (Grades Pre-K - 5)
Forget finding a babysitter – bring the whole family for a fun-filled day of Scouting excitement!
Cub College is offering a mini-camp of engaging activities for Cub Scouts and their siblings. Activities include science, nature, Scoutcraft, games, crafts, songs and skits, and more. Many activities will meet requirements for advancement and STEM Nova awards.
- Akela’s Academy: Grades 2 to 5 (Wolf, Bear, Webelos, Arrow of Light)
- Dragon Academy: Grades Pre-K to 1 (Lions, Tigers, and younger siblings)
All youth attendees must be toilet-trained.
Scout Night with the Norfolk Admirals
December 15
Join the Scouts to cheer on the Norfolk Admirals as they take on the Cincinnati Cyclones!
Tickets are now available for $18 each at the Tidewater Council Scout Shop, 1032 Heatherwood Drive, Virginia Beach, VA 23455 until December 13, or sold out. A portion of ticket sales supports local Scouting. Units purchasing tickets will be recognized on the video board.
The tickets purchased in the Scout Shop are actual tickets with assigned seats. If you are attending Scout Night with the Norfolk Admirals as a unit or with a group, please purchase the tickets together to ensure you are seated together.
Scout Day at Winterplace Ski Resort
January 26, 2025
The new year means winter weather and winter sports! For the third year in a row, Winterplace Ski Resort in Ghent, WV is offering a special winter sports program for Tidewater Council Scouts, leaders, family members, friends, and neighbors! No matter what Scouting program you’re a part of (Cub Scouting, Scouts BSA, Venturing, Exploring, Sea Scouting), this winter sports day is open to you!
Youth Scouts who register by January 3, 2025 are guaranteed an event patch. Youth Scouts registering after January 3 may receive a patch, as supplies last.
The package includes a full-day lift ticket, ski equipment rental, helmet rental, and a customized 90-minute group lesson – all for a discounted rate! There are optional add-ons available for meal vouchers and snowtubing (additional cost).
Lodging is not included in the package, but there are nearby facilities at Winterplace and the Summit Bechtel Reserve for group/unit lodging. For individuals and families, there are hotels in nearby Beckley, WV.
For members of Scouts BSA, the Winter Sports merit badge will also be offered in conjunction with this program. Scouts interested in earning this badge will need to participate in one of the discussion sessions held prior to the Scout Day, and must demonstrate their proficiency (skis/snowboard) on the slopes.
Please contact Mr. Mack Brunson (mack_brunson@yahoo.com) for more information on the event and to sign up for the merit badge.
Wood Badge
May 2-4 and May 31-June 1
Registration for Wood Badge 2025 is now open!
Participating in Wood Badge will show you tips, tricks, and best practices for being an adult volunteer at any program level, whether you are a brand-new leader or have been leading for years. What’s more, though, is how it will change YOU. You will find yourself talking about team development and leadership tendencies at work, about managing conversations at home, and about what your personality tendencies are when interacting with others.
Wood Badge is the doorway, the start to learning about yourself and others, and the spark you will carry and instill in your Scouts. It will teach you how to lead from the perspective of the youth you serve.
Register now for Wood Badge and enter for a chance to win custom-made course swag! The earlier you are paid in full, the more chances you have to win! Prizes include an engraved nametag, a set of four coasters, and a travel mug, with a grand prize of a course jacket.
Chances to Win
- Paid in full by December 31, 2024 = 4 tickets
- Paid in full by February 1, 2025 = 2 tickets
- Paid in full by March 15, 2025 = 1 ticket
Black Pug allows for a self-paced payment plan, and some loan and scholarship funds may be available.
For more information, contact Kate Sklat, Course Director, at 2025TWCWoodBadge@gmail.com.
Cub Scout Day Camp
June 2025
Cub Scout day camp is a summer outdoor experience for Cub Scout youth. Staffed by a team of volunteers, day camp activities include sports and games, academics, STEM and science activities, nature exploration, crafts, marksmanship, and skits and songs. Each activity is challenging and age appropriate. Cub Scouts have the opportunity to try new things as they work on elective Cub Scouting Adventures.
Planning is already underway to provide your Cub Scouts with awesome experiences in 2025!
2025 Philmont Trek
June 19 - July 3, 2025
Save the date for Tidewater Council’s next Philmont trek in summer 2025! If interested in joining the council contingent or getting more information, contact Bill Lawrence at Bill.Lawrence2@scouting.org.
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 popcorn sale or contact the district executive.
Reserve your spot for the adventure of a lifetime now with a $100 deposit!
News
Popcorn
Looking for a way to fund an awesome program for your Scouts? The annual Popcorn Sale is here to help!
Online Sales
It is not too late for your unit to participate in the 2024 Popcorn Sale! Online sales continue until November 24. Product purchased online is shipped directly to the purchaser with free shipping. Units earn 30% commission on online sales, and do not have to handle product or logistics. Each Scout receives a unique Seller ID to ensure credit goes to the right unit.
If you need your Scout’s Seller ID for online sales, please contact your Unit Popcorn Kernel.
Scout Shop
Cub Scout Hoodies
Fall is in the air, which means cool days and cooler nights. We have hoodies for all sizes, and now have new Cub Scout hoodies for Cub Scouts. These royal blue hoodies feature the Cub Scout emblem on the front, are 50% cotton / 50% polyester, have a front pocket, come in youth sizes small – XL, and sell for $29.99. Scout-related outerwear provides warmth AND advertises Scouting!
Sleeping Bags
There’s nothing like snuggling into a warm sleeping bag at night while camping. We have a good supply of the Coleman Big & Tall sleeping bags for a great price of $69.99. These bags are not only designed for taller people, but the 30–degree adjustable bag also gives you several options. This bag divides so you may cover just your torso, or feet and legs. The divided cover unzips for just a lightweight sheet in warmer weather. We also have regular-size mummy bags for $59.99.
Holiday Ornaments
NEW this season are holiday ornaments from the Boy Scouts of America. We have the Eagle ornament and the fleur-de-lis ornament, each selling for $12.99. Also new are Tidewater Council/Pipsico Scout Reservation ornaments for 2024, which sell for $10 each. Come in and pick up a few while we have them in stock. These ornaments make great gifts, especially for collectors.
Shipping
We continue to ship orders by USPS and accept VISA, Mastercard, and Discover cards with no extra fee. Call us (757-497-2688) or send us an email (polly.fugate@scouting.org or staci.vankirk@scouting.org). We will calculate shipping charges and call you back.
Scout Shop Hours
Winter Scout Shop hours are now in effect.
Monday: Closed
Tuesday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Wednesday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Thursday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Friday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Saturday: 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM
Sunday: Closed
Our next special hours will be:
On Thursday, November 21, the Scout Shop will open late at 1 PM.
The Scout Shop will be closed on November 28-30 for Thanksgiving weekend.
BSA Safety Moment
It is recommended to include a BSA Safety Moment during meetings to inform Scouts and parents and keep everyone safe. Numerous downloadable BSA Safety Moments are available here.
Charcoal Safety
The day has come to an end and now your next adventure is cooking a cobbler for your evening dessert. Soon, you’ll be ready to light a charcoal fire using your choice of approved Scouting equipment. However, when using charcoal, it is important to keep in mind that chemical fuels are not permitted for use in Scouting activities.
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. To that end, there are two proposals before the council:
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.
Potable Water
Working with the City of Chesapeake water department, tapping into an existing water line conveniently located just outside the camp entrance will bring viable potable water into the camp. City connection fees, trenching a water line to a meter and further on to end at a frost-free water spigot similar to those in use at Pipsico will run from $3,400 – $5,000.
What's Next?
To achieve the success of these projects, we are reaching out to you in Tidewater Council to either help fund in full or in part one or both of these projects. 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 Diamond Brand 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 BSA 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
November
- Family Stories Month
- Invite Scouts to come up with questions or prompts to ask their family members at holiday gatherings.
- Work on the Genealogy or Family Life merit badges.
- Encourage Cub Scouts to discuss their families’ faith traditions as they work on the rank-specific Family & Reverence Adventure:
- Lion: Lion’s Pride
- Tiger: Tiger Circles
- Wolf: Footsteps
- Bear: Fellowship
- Webelos: My Family
- Arrow of Light: Duty to God
- Veterans Day: November 11
- March in the Tidewater Veterans Day Parade.
- Attend a Veterans Day ceremony.
- Place American flags on veterans’ graves.
- Invite a veteran to be a special guest speaker at a unit meeting.
- Make thank you cards for veterans.
- World Kindness Day: November 13
- A Scout is Kind. Discuss the sixth point of the Scout Law.
- As a den or patrol, plan ways to show kindness.
- National Hiking Day: November 17
- Work on the Hiking merit badge.
- Work the rank-specific Cub Scout Adventure for outdoor exploration:
- Lion: Mountain Lion
- Tiger: Tigers in the Wild
- Wolf: Paws on the Path
- Bear: Bear Habitat
- Webelos: Webelos Walkabout
- Arrow of Light: Outdoor Adventurer
- Go on a hike!
December
- Learn a Foreign Language Month
- Recognize members who speak a foreign language with the Interpreter Strip.
- National Sock Day: December 4
- Invite Scouts to wear crazy socks to a unit meeting.
- Make sock puppets.
- Work on the Textile merit badge.
- National Slime Day: December 7
- Make slime!
- Wreaths Across America: December 14
- Remember, honor, and teach about our servicemen and women by participating in this national event. Visit wreathsacrossamerica.org to find local opportunities to participate.
- Bill of Rights Day: December 15
- Work on the Citizenship in the Nation merit badge (requirement 4b).
- Wright Brothers Day: December 17
- Visit the Wright Brothers National Memorial.
Community Engagement
Virginia DWR Archery Open 2025
The Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources (DWR) invites the archery and conservation community to participate in the 2025 DWR Archery Open. This inaugural competition will take place Saturday, January 11, 2025 in Richmond, Virginia and will feature opportunities for youth and adult level competitors. Event proceeds will contribute to connecting people to conservation.
Learn more and register online at dwr.virginia.gov/archery-open. Early registration ends on November 30, so sign up now to get the best rate!
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 from Troop 57 and Troop 413 worked on the Space Exploration merit badge with a real astronaut!
Dr. Kjell Lindgren, an astronaut and an Eagle Scout, held a Zoom session with the Scouts in October.
Many thanks to Dr. Lindgren, and to Space Exploration merit badge counselor Ted Roberts, who set up the special session!
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).
