Table of Contents

Two Scouts in a canoe with tagline, "Scouting is more fun with friends"

Invite a Friend

If every Scout brings a friend to a meeting by April 1, how many lives will be impacted?

How many more youth in our community will learn essential life lessons in character, citizenship, leadership, and personal fitness?

If every Scout brings just one friend to a meeting, and only 25% of those friends decide to join, local Scouting will serve 1,000 more youth in April than it does today.

Encourage your Scouts to bring a friend to experience Scouting’s adventures!

Friends of Scouting

Friends of Scouting is Tidewater Council’s annual giving campaign. The Friends of Scouting campaign provides 21% of the council’s annual budget – that means more than a fifth of every dollar in the council budget comes from the generosity of Scouting families, alumni, and community supporters. Friends of Scouting keeps the overall cost of Scouting affordable so all families can participate. Tidewater Council’s goal is to raise $500,000 through Friends of Scouting in 2024.

All Friends of Scouting donations stay local to support families in northeastern North Carolina and southeastern Virginia.

Campaign Progress as of February 9, 2024
Council Goal: $500,000
49.4%

Each district shares a portion of the overall goal:

Albemarle District Goal: $48,000
20.4%
Bayside District Goal: $175,000
36.7%
Princess Anne District Goal: $159,000
67.7%
Three Rivers District Goal: $118,000
55.1%

Has your unit scheduled its 2024 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.

Upcoming Events

Coin Collecting Merit Badge

Virginia Beach Coin Show
February 17-18

Join the Tidewater Coin Club for the Virginia Beach Coin Show at the Virginia Beach Convention Center.

Saturday, February 17: 9 AM – 5 PM
Sunday, February 18: 9 AM – 4 PM

There will be a Coin Collecting merit badge program at 10 AM on Saturday. Advanced registration is required; please contact Eddie DeVault at eddiedevault911@gmail.com or Fran Ryan at fryan88f250@gmail.com to reserve a spot.

Patch design for Klondike Derby 2024. Plaid-clad lumberjack wielding axe.

Klondike Derby

February 23-25

Klondike Derby is coming soon!

Sign up for the 2024 Klondike Derby in beautiful Camp Lions, Pipsico Scout Reservation. Using your sled, compete in skills from first aid, wilderness survival, lumberjack skills, branding, fire building, cooking, pioneering, and shooting sports with black powder rifles.

The Blue Heron Lodge will conduct an Order of the Arrow call-out ceremony on Saturday night.

Sign up today at scoutingevent.com/596-KlondikeDerby24.

If you are interested or have any questions, please contact Mike Maruska at mikemaruska1179@gmail.com.

Virginia Beach Trade-O-Ree

February 23 and February 24

Buy, sell, and trade Scouting collectible memorabilia at the 2024 Virginia Beach Trade-O-Ree. Check out the event flyer for more information.

Scouting for Food

February 24-25 and March 2-3

As Scouts, we know how fortunate we are to have a warm meal every night — whether around the campfire or at the kitchen table. And we know that not everyone is so lucky.

That’s why we participate annually in Tidewater Council’s Scouting for Food drive. It’s another reminder to our local communities that Scouts are here, doing Good Turns.

Scouting for Food takes place on two consecutive weekends. On the first weekend, Scouts distribute bags or doorhangers to let their neighbors know about the drive. On the second, Scouts revisit those houses to pick up bags full of canned food, cereal, pasta, peanut butter, juice, and other nonperishable items.

In 2024, Tidewater Council is providing units with printed door hangers, patches for youth participants, and a flag ribbon for each unit participating – FREE OF CHARGE.

Please read the 2024 Scouting for Food Information Sheet and sign up to get started!

Rovers Kickoff Event

February 25

The Rovers are back!

Who Are the Rovers?

The Rovers are a group of young adults aged 21-34 with a passion for the outdoors, giving back to the community, and hanging out with like minded peers.

Our Goal

Our goal is to provide a community for young adults who would have previously “aged out” of other Scouting programs. You don’t stop learning and growing when you turn 21, so we want to continue fostering the values of Scouting as young adults.

The Benefits of Rovers

The Rover program benefits the entire Scouting community. Other Scouting programs will have access to younger adult volunteers. Rovers will have the opportunity to give back and to participate in outdoor adventures without feeling like they are taking time away from other activities. As Rovers grow, we also hope to support career building, higher education, vocational workshops, and more.

For anyone looking for a good place to stay involved in Scouting while having your own adventures, look no further!

How to Get Involved

VFW Scholarship Programs and Contests

March

The Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States (VFW) and the VFW Auxiliary have scholarship programs and contests available for youth.

The information below has been shared on behalf of Veterans of Foreign Wars and Auxiliary, Post 392 and the Veterans of Foreign Wars, Post 1211, which serve the Virginia Beach area. If you are located in another part of the council, please contact your local VFW Post for submission information.

Scout of the Year Program: Due March 1

Annually, the VFW recognizes individuals who have risen above their peers in exemplifying the qualities of the highest youth Scouting ranks. For members of the Boy Scouts of America, those awards are Eagle Scout (Scouts BSA), Summit Award (Venturing), and Quartermaster (Sea Scouting).

Recipients can be awarded scholarships at both the local and national levels.

Young American Creative Patriotic Art Contest: Due March 31

The VFW National Auxiliary recognizes young artists (grades 9-12) and encourages patriotism in youth with the Young American Creative Patriotic Art Contest. National scholarships are awarded to the winners.

Illustrating America Art Contest: Due March 31

The Illustrating America Art Contest introduces, encourages, and recognizes young artists (grades K-8) with patriotism through art. Winners are awarded with gift cards.

Get Excited for the Red, White and Blue!: Due March 31

This VFW Auxiliary national singing contest is for students in grade K-12. Students submit a video solo performance of “The Star-Spangled Banner.” Winners are awarded with gift cards.

For those in Virginia Beach, please submit the entry on a flash drive to VFW Post 392 Auxiliary. For all others, please contact the local VFW Post for submission instructions.

2024 Tidewater Council University of Scouting logo: Scout Quest

University of Scouting

March 9
Old Dominion University
Scouting is a Game with a Purpose

All Scouts, prospective Scouts, leaders, parents, and volunteers are invited to attend the Tidewater Council 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. All units are encouraged to run an interactive program station demonstrating a Scout skill or activity. Community partners are invited to promote their programs, teach skill sessions, and run interactive program stations.

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.
  • Brownsea Island is a chance for new Scouts BSA to master their Scoutcraft requirements.
  • Merit Badge Academy offers a range of badges, including several required for Eagle Scout.
  • VESSI Academy is an opportunity for older youth to prepare for high adventure and get involved with Venturers, Explorers, Sea Scouts, and International opportunities.
Programs

Visit activity stations, complete quests, and earn prizes and rewards!

Activity stations include:

  • Scoutcraft
  • Tidewater Adventures
  • Scouting Adventures
  • Duty to God
  • STEM
  • Pioneering
  • International
  • Outdoor Ethics
  • Community Service
  • Cooking
  • Escape Rooms
  • Simulations
  • Disability Awareness
  • And much more!
BALOO logo

Basic Adult Leader Outdoor Orientation (BALOO)

March 15-16

Basic Adult Leader Outdoor Orientation (BALOO) is a one-and-a-half day course that introduces leaders to the Cub Scout outdoor program. BALOO is designed for leaders interested in adding a camping component to their pack activities.

BALOO consists of an online pre-requisite component and an overnight, hands-on practical. The course teaches BSA’s Cub Scout level camping policies and the necessary tools to help units carry out a successful camping experience. When a Cub Scout pack or Webelos den camps, a minimum of one adult who has completed this training must be present on the overnight experience.

Tidewater Council’s next BALOO course will be offered in Shiloh, NC on March 15-16.

Photo of Gary Clark in Washington NFL uniform

Annual Leadership Breakfast

March 21

We are pleased to announce the keynote speaker for Tidewater Council’s 2024 Annual Leadership Breakfast: Gary Clark!

As a wide receiver for James Madison University’s football team, Gary Clark earned the 1982 Virginia Offensive Play of the Year award and All-American honorable mentions in his junior and senior years. He was inducted into the JMU Hall of Fame in 1994 and is the first person at JMU to have his jersey retired.

Clark played for two years with the United States Football League’s Jacksonville Bulls before joining the NFL in 1985. Over eight seasons with Washington, Clark earned two Super Bowl rings and made four Pro Bowl appearances. He ranks third in the team’s history in receptions and receiving yardage. Clark is often regarded as the heart and soul of the Joe-Gibbs-era in Washington.

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.

Three Rivers District Appreciation Event

March 27

Scouters and their families are invited to attend this special evening of recognition for outstanding adult leaders. Join Three Rivers District on Wednesday, March 27 at 6:30 PM at New Creation United Methodist Church, 4320 Bruce Road, Chesapeake, VA 23321. The $20 registration fee includes the meal and awards.

Patch for Three Rivers District Spring Camporee 2024: Highlander Games

Three Rivers District Spring Camporee

Highlander Games
April 5-7

Hear ye, hear ye! Come, all ye lads and ladies, to the Highlander Games!

Combining the traditions and skills of the great Scottish Highland Games, Scouts and Scouters from the Three Rivers District will gather April 5-7, 2024 at Pipsico Scout Reservation for the Highlander Games. Expect loads of fun! There will be activities, challenges, and competitions, based on skills only a true Highlander possesses. Get into shape and make plans to join us for this unique event!

Save the date – registration is coming soon.

Apex Family Fun Day

April 7

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. 

Each $20 Family Fun Day voucher will include a round of bumper cars, a round of mini golf, a non-redemption arcade card, and more! Registration is coming soon.

Red bag with Wood Badge NST 15-594-24 and white travel mug

Wood Badge

April 12-14 and May 4-5

We “Saved the Antelope” in 2021, we impacted “3 Gens Out” in 2022, we said “Thank You to everyone who said ‘Yes’” in 2023, and we can’t wait to “Build Tomorrow’s Leaders” in 2024! Please join us at Wood Badge this April and May to take part in an opportunity to learn communication skills, project planning, team building, and much more!

This is a two weekend event: April 12-14 and May 4-5, 2024 at Pipsico Scout Reservation.

The first 30 fully paid participants will receive a Wood Badge swag bag! Reserve your spot now for just $50.00!

Sign up on Black Pug.

If you have any questions, please contact the Course Director, Karen Allgaier, at twcwb2024@gmail.com or 757-985-9553.

Patch for 2024 Princess Anne District Camporee

Princess Anne District Spring Camporee

Merit Badges for ALL
April 19-21, 2024

Princess Anne District’s 2024 Spring Camporee is just a couple months away. Registration is now open!

The Camporee will be held at Izaak Walton Park in Chesapeake. Join us for:

  • Scout Skills for younger Scouts
  • Merit Badges for ALL
  • Saturday night youth cookoff
  • Saturday night adult cookoff
  • OA Callout Ceremony conducted by the Princess Anne Chapter of Blue Heron Lodge

If you are interested or have any questions, please contact Jessica Harlan at just.smile@mac.com.

If you would like to come out and counsel a Merit Badge on Saturday, please contact Mike Maruska at mikemaruska1179@gmail.com or 757-641-2373.

Tidewater Council Recognition Banquet graphic with stars

Council Recognition Banquet

May 15

Save the date for Tidewater Council’s Recognition Banquet: Wednesday, May 15, 2024.

Join us to recognize youth and adults, including 2023 Eagle Scouts, Silver Beaver Award recipients, National Outstanding Eagle Scouts, and many more!

Summer Camp at Pipsico

June and July

Pipsico Scout Reservation offers Scouts and Scouters the opportunity to immerse themselves in a positive camping environment, at a beautiful property, with a friendly camp staff. Tidewater Council is proud to offer quality programs for everyone.

Week #1 – June 23 to June 29, 2024 – FULL
Week #2 – June 30 to July 6, 2024
Week #3 – July 7 to July 13, 2024
Week #4 – July 14 to July 20, 2024

Patch for NOAC 2024 - Seek new heights

National Order of the Arrow Conference (NOAC)

July 29 - August 3

From July 29 through August 3, 2024, Arrowmen from around the country will have the opportunity to gather at the University of Colorado in Boulder, CO to attend the 2024 National Order of the Arrow Conference (NOAC). Attendance is expected to exceed several thousand, as Arrowmen from around the USA come together to share ideas, learn from one another, and, most importantly, experience an outstanding event unlike any other in Scouting. NOAC is open to all active members of the OA.

The estimated fee to attend is $1,450 and can be paid in six installments until May 15, 2024 at scoutingevent.com/596-noac2024. The final fee will be adjusted when transportation costs are finalized.

For More Information or Questions

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. Registration is coming soon.

News

2024 BSA National Registration Fees

New Member Joining Fees

The New Member Joining Fee will be eliminated on April 1, 2024. This will be a cost savings of $25 per new member.

Annual Membership Fees

Effective April 1, 2024, the National Council of the Boy Scouts of America will implement the following annual national membership fees:

  • $85 per year for youth participants in Cub Scouts, Scouts BSA, Venturing, and Sea Scouting (Increase of $5)
  • $65 per year for adult volunteers (Increase of $5)
  • $50 per year for Exploring participants and leaders (No change)
  • $25 per year for Merit Badge Counselors (No change) – This fee applies only for Merit Badge Counselors who do not hold another paid registration.
  • $100 per year for the unit charter fee (No change)
  • $15 per year for optional Scout Life magazine subscription (No change)
For Assistance

For information about need-based financial assistance or unit fundraising opportunities, please contact the district executive.

Updated Adult Application Flow

A new process for adult application flow will be implemented beginning Monday, March 4.

At that time, the adult application flow will change to require the completion of the criminal background check (results received) before the new adult volunteer can assume a leadership role. 

  • Once an adult application is processed, the membership status will be “pending.” 
  • The adult leader will get an email notice informing them their registration is being processed and they are not to assume any leadership role until the completion of the criminal background check. The unit key 3 (unit leader, committee chair, and chartered organization representative) will also get an email.
  • If the criminal background check comes back clear, the leader and the unit key 3 will receive an email with notification that they can now be an active leader.
  • If the criminal background check comes back with cause to deny membership in the Boy Scouts of America, council staff will contact the applicant and the unit.

Please keep in mind that criminal background checks require processing time. To ensure youth safety, adult leaders may NOT assume a leadership role until they have passed the background screening.

Scout Shop

If you are looking for excitement this month, there are several fun-filled events! Many packs have Pinewood Derby races, and many units celebrate Scout Sunday, Scout Sabbath, or Scout Jumuah. Some Scouts are moving up from Arrow of Light to a new troop. The Scout Shop is ready to meet these needs!

Pinewood Derby

Pinewood Derby season isn’t finished! Some packs are holding races a little later this year, and the Scout Shop has a good stock of all the accessories, including the newest car decals ($4.99), weights, high-speed graphite, and many other things to get the fastest car! Lose a wheel? We have the tubes with four wheels and axles in various colors for just $2.49.

Patch for 2024 Pinewood Derby
Scout Sunday 2024 Patch
Scout Sunday

For many units, Scout Sunday was February 11. However, units and chartered organizations are free to schedule their Scout Sunday on any Sunday in February.

The 2024 BSA Scout Sunday patch, an elegant church-shaped patch with colorful stained-glass windows ($3.99) is in stock at the front table in the store. Scout Sunday Program Covers ($13.99/100 pk.) and inserts ($7.99/25 pk.) are also available.

Arrow of Light Crossover

Arrow of Light Wooden Plaques ($34.99) make the perfect keepsake for Arrow of Light Scouts who are crossing over to troops. The plaques include engraving plates and are made for wall hanging. We usually keep a half dozen on hand, but we can order more when needed.

As we approach crossover time, please be aware of the needs of new Scouts coming into your troop. We can help with basic uniform needs. Scout leaders, please inform them of the following:

  • What the troop provides (neckerchief, slide, book, shoulder loops, custom numbers, etc.)
  • Color of the neckerchief the troop uses
  • Patrol patch (if applicable)
Arrow of Light plaque
Cub Scout Handbook Sale

Cub Scout handbooks are now $10 OFF at Tidewater Council’s Scout Shop. For the remainder of this school year, Cub Scout handbooks are $14.99 each.

This discount applies only to the current Cub Scout handbooks.

Cub Scout Program Changes

The Cub Scout Program is changing at the end of May 2024. If any packs have extra awards to return for the current program, they must be returned by Feb. 29, 2024. Since Scout Shops cannot return awards to National Supply for credit, we are unable to accept returns of these items after this date.

Shipping

As always, we are happy to ship orders by USPS for anywhere in the continental US. Just phone (757-497-2688) or email the order to polly.fugate@scouting.org or staci.vankirk@scouting.org. Once the order (including shipping) has been calculated, we can call you back for a VISA or Mastercard number.

Scout Shop Hours

The Scout Shop is always closed on Mondays, so there are no additional holiday closings for February.

Regular store hours are:

Monday: Closed
Tuesday: 11:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Wednesday: 11:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Thursday: 11:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Friday: 11:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Saturday: 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM
Sunday: Closed

Camp Cards header with camping gear, flashlight, boot, lantern, backpack, campfire, Dutch oven, fishing pole, kayak, tent

Camp Cards

Want an easy NO-RISK fundraiser that offers 50% profit? Do you have Scouts who haven’t raised enough to attend day camp or summer camp? Does your unit have new members? Then the Camp Card fundraiser is for your unit!

How to Participate

Contact the district executive to register and pick-up cards.

Training and resources are available online at TidewaterBSA.com/2024campcardsale. Review these resources for deadlines and important information.

And then – simply sell. This is a super easy fundraiser that scores Scouts some serious bucks toward camp.

2024 Camp Card Vendors

Camp Cards include valuable discounts to local retailers and Bonus Savings that are available for your choice of retailers nationwide.

2024 Vendors - North Carolina Camp Card
  • 3 Amigos
  • Abbey’s Waggin’ Tails
  • The Adventure Park
  • Apex Entertainment
  • The Barrel Room
  • Brew 2 Rescue
  • Currituck Feed & Seed
  • Harris Teeter
  • Hungry Panda
  • Jade Whale Co.
  • The Kraken Coffeehouse
  • Moyock Farm Market
  • Nothing Bundt Cakes
  • Pass the Salt Café
  • RCE Theaters
  • Waterfall Blossom Cafe
  • Wendy’s
  • PLUS Bonus Savings!
Photo of 2024 Camp Card with North Carolina vendors
2024 Vendors - Virginia Camp Card
  • The Adventure Park
  • Apex Entertainment
  • The Barrel Room
  • Big Apple Pizza
  • Breakout Games
  • Burrito Perdido
  • Harris Teeter
  • iFly Virginia Beach
  • Latitude
  • Liberty Transmission
  • Nothing Bundt Cakes
  • Wendy’s
  • PLUS Bonus Savings!
Photo of 2024 Camp Card with Virginia vendors

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.

BSA SAFE Logo
Trampoline Park Safety

An indoor trampoline park is an enclosed gymnasium-like space holding many connected trampolines that turn it into a massive trampoline area. What may seem like a fun and safe activity can actually pose many risks. You can identify and help to mitigate those risks with a little research and some discussion with your chosen facility.

SAME STEM Camps

The Society of American Military Engineers (SAME) offers summer STEM camps for interested high school students (rising sophomore to rising senior). These hands-on, one-week camps involve fun engineering challenges in a group environment, including construction of concrete beams, among many others.

Industry volunteers in engineering, military, Department of Defense, and STEM fields serve as mentors. The connections made at SAME STEM Camps offer great networking and recommendation opportunities for youth who will be applying to colleges and higher education programs.

Scholarship are available; please see the flyer for more information.

Apply by March 15, 2024.

Camp Baker Closure Update

Recent scheduling changes from Dominion Virginia Power have impacted the Camp Baker closure dates.

Camp Baker will now be closed from June 1, 2024 – April 30, 2025.

Thank you for your cooperation and patience. Any questions regarding Camp Baker or Camp Moonyah use can be directed to Ron Misfeldt, City Camps Ranger, at 757-646-1384 or mustangron@aol.com.

2024 Pinewood Derby Rules

The rules and inspection sheet for 2024 Pinewood Derbies are available here.

All Tidewater Council district races and the council derby will use the official Tidewater Council Pinewood Derby Rules & Procedures and the TWC Pinewood Derby Car Inspection Form.

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

Pack Meeting Plans

With twelve months in the year and twelve points of the Scout Law, why not choose one value to focus on each month? Scout Law-focused Pack Meeting Plans can be found here.

Meeting plans may be used in any order and can be adjusted to fit the needs of the families in the pack.

February
  • International Stand Up to Bullying Day: February 23
    • The idea that a Scout should treat others as they want to be treated—a Scout is kind—is woven throughout the programs and literature of the Boy Scouts of America. When a Scout follows the principles of the Scout Oath and Scout Law, bullying and hazing situations should never occur.
    • Have youth watch the age and rank-appropriate Personal Safety Awareness videos.
    • Review and share the BSA’s Bullying Awareness resources with Scouts and families.
    • For adults, take Youth Protection Training.
    • Review the BSA’s Social Media Guidelines for valuable information on internet safety and youth protection when using social media.
March
  • National Nutrition Month
    • Work on nutrition-related advancement curriculum:
      • Fun on the Run (Lion)
      • Tiger Bites (Tiger)
      • Running with the Pack (Wolf)
      • Bear Picnic Basket (Bear)
      • Cast Iron Chef (Webelos)
      • Tenderfoot Rank (requirement 2)
      • Second Class Rank (requirement 2)
      • First Class Rank (requirement 2)
      • Cooking merit badge
  • National Play Outside Day: March 1
    • National Play Outside Day is the first Saturday of every month. Make a monthly tradition of encouraging families to explore the outdoors!
  • Read Across America Day: March 2
    • Work on the Reading merit badge.
    • Visit a local library.
    • Pick up a copy of Scout Life. If you’d like to subscribe to the magazine and did not do so with your registration, subscribe online at subscribe.scoutlife.org/subscribe and apply promo code DIRPAS to get a discounted member rate (one-year subscription for only $15).
  • National Anthem Day: March 3
  • National Dentists Day: March 6
  • National Napping Day: March 11
  • Popcorn Lover’s Day: March 14
    • Say thank you to the Unit Popcorn Kernel.
    • Plan the unit’s sales strategy for the 2024 Popcorn Sale.
    • Have Scouts role play sales techniques.
    • Enjoy a popcorn snack!
  • International Day of Forests: March 21
  • Walk in the Sand Day: March 23
    • Go for a hike on the beach.

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.

Help Wanted

Camp Staff for Summer Camp 2024

What are your plans for this summer? Are you looking for an awesome opportunity to learn new things, develop new skills, share what you know, meet new people, work an internship, and enjoy Pipsico Scout Reservation?

We are accepting applications for Counselors in Training, Junior Staff, Area Directors, and Commissioners. Program areas include aquatics, shooting sports, Scout skills for new Scouts and for seasoned Scouts, handicraft, nature, cook crew, and more.

You must be at least 14 years of age by June 16, 2024 to be considered. Camp staff is composed of youth, young adults, college students, school teachers, bus drivers, professionals who want to get away from the office, and folks who have an open schedule. Fill out the online application at pipsicobsa.com/summer-camp-programs/staffapplication and we will contact you for an interview.

Additional Volunteer Opportunities

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

Scouts in Action

Congratulations to some of our newest Eagle Scouts!

Photo of Eagle Scout Logan S.

Logan S. of Albemarle Troop 127 completed his Eagle Board of Review on January 20, 2024.

Donovan C. of Bayside Troop 62 celebrated his Eagle Scout ceremony on February 3, 2024. He was pinned with his Great Grandfather’s Eagle pin from 1953!

Photo of Eagle Scout Donovan C
Photo of James Johnston with his Eagle Scout certificate

Albemarle Pack and Troop 116 kicked off the Scouting for Food drive with a collection to support Beach Food Pantry in Kitty Hawk, NC. The Scouts collected more than 930 pounds of food!

Collage of photos from Troop 116's Scouting for Food collection
Cub Scouts conducting a cemetery cleanup in Edenton, NC

On February 10, the Cub Scouts of Pack 40 in Edenton, NC conducted a service project to clean up a local cemetery. Well done!

Scout-built shelter at the 2024 Albemarle Freezoree

At the Albemarle Freezoree on January 26-28 in Barco, NC, Scouts cooked, learned fire safety, made an axe yard, and worked on wilderness survival skills. Great job, Scouts!

Scouts and leaders around a fire at the 2024 Albemarle Freezoree
Scouts cooking at the 2024 Albemarle Freezoree in Barco, NC
Scouts gathered at the 2024 Albemarle Freezoree

Cub Scout Pack 364 enjoyed a hike at Newport News Park.

Scout leaders on a hike at Newport News Park
Scouts hiking at Newport News Park

Cub Scouts around Tidewater Council have been off to the races with the Pinewood Derby!

The Pinewood Derby promotes character development through sportsmanship. Cub Scouts also are encouraged to be creative, take pride in their work, and learn STEM principles including mechanics, physics, and engineering. Plus, the Pinewood Derby is fun for the whole family!

Cheese Pinewood Derby Car and car-line up at Pack 991 Pinewood Derby
Pack 991
Popcorn car at Pack 991 Pinewood Derby
Pack 991
Tiger Cub Scout with Pinewood Derby car and trophy
Pack 125
Collage of Pinewood Derby cars
Pack 125
Wolf Cub Scout with Pinewood Derby car
Pack 125

Pack 374 held a Cut and Cocoa Workshop for families to work on Pinewood Derby cars together, followed by a Paint and Prep Party. They had a strong turnout and a lot of fun at Pack 374’s Glow in the Dark Pinewood Derby!

Scout at Pack 374's Pinewood Derby Cut and Cocoa Workshop
Pack 374
Scouts at Pack 374's Pinewood Derby Cut and Cocoa Workshop
Pack 374
Scouts at Pack 374's Pinewood Derby Paint and Prep Party
Pack 374
Glowing cars at the Pinewood Derby
Pack 374
Scouts voting for their favorite cars at the Pinewood Derby
Pack 374

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). 

Subscribe

Subscribe

We hope you’ve enjoyed this edition of the “EK” Electronic Knapsack. Sign up to receive the latest Tidewater Council news.