Table of Contents
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 March 27, 2024
Each district shares a portion of the overall goal:
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
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.
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.
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!
Registration is now open on Black Pug.
2024 Tidewater Council Living Legends Nominations Due
April 6
Nominations are now open for 2024 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 of Merit, etc.). Help acknowledge those volunteers for their continued contributions before their council 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:
Nomination forms must be received no later than Saturday, April 6, 2024 to be considered.
Council Pinewood Derby
April 7
The top three racers of each rank/grade at each District Pinewood Derby will be invited to compete for the council championship! The Council Pinewood Derby will take place on Sunday, April 7 at Apex Entertainment in Virginia Beach – the same day as Family Fun Day at Apex!
Family Fun Day at Apex
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.
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!
Albemarle District Spring Camporee
April 12-14
It’s no surprise that fishing remains a favorite pastime on most Scout outings and can be witnessed at many Scout camps. It attracts interest for the excitement of the first cast, the first bite, the excitement of a new personal record size, or a new species catch. Baden-Powell claimed fishing as one of his favorite pastimes, saying “Every Scout ought to be able to fish in order to get food for himself.”
This year, Albemarle District will hold its Spring Camporee on April 12-14 in Edenton, NC. Scouts with any fishing skill level are welcome, from beginners with the basic equipment to experienced fishermen with honed fishing skills. Camping will be at the American Legion Fairgrounds,1317 W. Queen Street, Edenton, NC. Scout units will need transportation for their Scouts for fishing at Chowan River Fishing Pier, 248 Wharf Landing Road, Edenton, NC.
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!
If you have any questions, please contact the Course Director, Karen Allgaier, at twcwb2024@gmail.com or 757-985-9553.
Princess Anne District Spring Camporee
Merit Badges for ALL
April 19-21
Princess Anne District’s 2024 Spring Camporee is next month – register now!
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.
Colonial Virginia Council Powder Horn
April 19-21 and May 17-18
Colonial Virginia Council will be hosting a Powder Horn course at Beaverdam Park in Gloucester, VA over two weekends: April 19-21 and May 17-18. The cost is $180 per participant, and registration is open to attendees from all councils.
What to Expect?
- “Learn by doing” from expert consultants and an all-star staff of experienced Scouters
- Discover where to obtain resources including equipment, facilities, guides, instructors, and certifications
- Sample the high adventure activities that are available for Scouts
- Bring ideas and resources back to the unit
Who Should Attend?
Powder Horn is for all registered BSA leaders and mature youth leaders ages 14 and older.
- Youth Leaders ages 14 or older; youth must have completed their unit leadership training (i.e., ILST, ILSC, ILSS)
- New Adult Leaders who may lack experience in high adventure
- Experienced Adult Leaders who feel their unit is in a rut
- Other Registered Adults who have been sitting on the sidelines and want to get involved
NOTE: Adult leaders must be trained in their position.
Sample Topics
- Astronomy
- Backpacking
- Cave Exploring
- Conservation
- Emergency Preparedness
- Expedition Planning
- Geocaching
- Orienteering
- Outdoor Ethics/Leave No Trace
- Outdoor Living History
- Plants and Wildlife/Ecology
- Wilderness Survival
Scouts Read Sacred Texts Worldwide
May 2
The BSA’s National Religious Relationships Committee is inviting all Scouts and their families to participate in the National Day of Prayer on May 2, 2024 by reading a portion of their own sacred text at 5:30 PM local time on that day. This is the first-of-its-kind worldwide effort organized by the National Religious Relationships Committee.
Scouting for Blood Drive
May 15
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, May 15, 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
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!
Wood Badge Association Dinner
Join us at Gilwell!
May 19
Wood Badgers, friends, and families –
Enjoy food, fun, and fellowship with your fellow critters! Proceeds after costs go to scholarships for Wood Badge, National Youth Leadership Training (NYLT), and National Advanced Youth Leadership Experience (NAYLE).
- 2:00 PM – 5:00 PM: Family activities for all ages
- Axe Throwing
- Lawn Games
- Fire Pits
- And More!
- 4:30 PM: Short Annual Business Meeting
- 5:00 PM – 8:00 PM: Adult-only (non-uniform) reception and silent auction
Registration is open on Black Pug for $35 per adult and $20 per youth under 18. The cost includes food, one drink ticket (adult beverages only available after 5:00 PM), and activities.
Please bring chairs, government ID, and cash for additional drink tickets, silent auction items, and custom critter merchandise.
The full Event Guide will be added to Black Pug when details are finalized.
Any questions may be directed to Shelly Drisko at wba_SM@tidewaterbsa.com.
Backpack to Retention
Rocket into Scouting!
May 23
Save the date for Backpack to Retention 2024: Rocket into Scouting!
We will go to infinity and beyond to recruit new Scouts! Learn about the special fall incentive plan for each new Scout, marketing your pack, budgeting, planning your calendar, the benefits of New Member Coordinators, and how to harness the available technology.
We want every pack to be prepared to launch into action this fall, so please plan now for a unit representative to attend!
Popcorn 101 Training
May 29
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.
Princess Anne Cub Scouts Shooting Sports Day
June 1
Princess Anne District will hold a Cub Scouts Shooting Sports Day on Saturday, June 1 at the Columbian Club, 1236 Prosperity Road, Virginia Beach, VA 23451. There will be two sessions: 9 AM-12 PM and 1 PM-4 PM.
During each session, Cub Scouts will have the opportunity to earn the Level 1 Shooting Sports Awards!
Save the date – more information is coming soon!
Scout Night with the Norfolk Tides
June 14
Join us for Scout Night with the Norfolk Tides: Friday, June 14, 2024. Cheer on the Tides as they take on the Memphis Redbirds at Harbor Park!
Ticket vouchers and camping vouchers are now available at the Tidewater Council Scout Shop!
After the game, Scouts and their families have the opportunity to sleep under the stars in the outfield and catch a movie on the big screen. Each youth and adult must have their own camping voucher.
Ticket vouchers must be exchanged for seat tickets at the Harbor Park Ticket Office. Vouchers can be exchanged in advance or the night of the game. Groups are strongly encouraged to exchange vouchers in advance to ensure everyone sits together.
Beaver Day
June 15
OA Summer Camp Workday, also referred to as Beaver Day, is a chance for everyone (not just OA members) to help get Pipsico ready for summer camp. Help make camping areas and structures useful to everyone for years to come.
On Saturday, June 15, work will begin at 9 AM and end around 4 PM. There will be projects for everyone, skilled and unskilled alike. Whether you are a master carpenter, an amateur gardener, or a lawyer, everyone can be a “Busy Beaver” on a project of their choice. Some of the projects include:
- Setting up tents and cots
- Moving boats to waterfront and by the pool for cleaning
- Moving canoes to the waterfront
- Preparing staff cabins
- A list of projects will be available for troops looking for service hours and/or conservation hours.
- Volunteers with specialized skills not mentioned above, please contact Mike Maruska to coordinate a project.
As a thank you to volunteers, camping will be available at no cost on Friday and/or Saturday. Lunch will be provided for all who sign up.
To sign up for this AWESOME event and help kick off a great summer for the Scouts, please visit scoutingevent.com/596-BeaverDay24.
For questions, contact Council Maintenance Chairman Mike Maruska at 757-641-2373 or mikemaruska1179@gmail.com.
Cub Scout Day Camps
June
From the depths of the ocean to the wonders of the woods, Cub Scouts at Day Camp will become explorers, ready for adventure in the great outdoors!
There are a wide range of activities, varying between camps, but most camps will include most of the following:
- Shooting Sports
- Sports and Games
- Academics
- Science
- Nature
- Crafts
- Skits and Songs
- Mealtime Programs
Four camps are available. Save $10 per Scout by registering by April 13 at the Early Bird Rate!
Albemarle Day Camp: June 17-21
Registration is now open for Albemarle Day Camp at Holy Family Catholic Church in Elizabeth City. For questions, contact dcalbemarle@tidewaterbsa.com.
Bayside Day Camp: June 17-21
Registration is now open for Bayside Day Camp at Bayside Masonic Lodge #218 in Virginia Beach. For questions, contact baysidedaycamp.tidewaterbsa@gmail.com.
Three Rivers Twilight Camp: June 17-21
Registration is now open for Three Rivers Twilight Camp at Great Bridge Baptist Church in Chesapeake. For questions, contact Joel.Cesar@scouting.org or Christina.Raymer@scouting.org.
Princess Anne Day Camp: June 24-28
Registration is now open for Princess Anne Day Camp at Tabernacle Baptist Academy in Virginia Beach. For questions, contact twcpa.daycamp@gmail.com.
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 – FULL
Week #4 – July 14 to July 20, 2024
Webelos Summer Camp
July 25-28
Experience a new concept for Webelos Long-Term Summer Camp!
Webelos and Arrow of Light Scouts will participate in a variety of activities at Pipsico Scout Reservation. Get away from the busy buzz of the city for the weekend and enjoy some time in the great outdoors at Pipsico Scout Reservation.
There will be a variety of activities to include things for nature enthusiasts, marksmen (aspiring marksmen), water lovers, crafty folks, sports fans, and more.
All meals will be provided and served in the Dining Hall!
Cub Scout Summer Family Camp
Bug Hunters!
July 26-28
Cub Scouts and their families are invited participate in a variety of summer activities at Pipsico Scout Reservation!
Experience summer fun at Pipsico and explore the outdoors as Bug Hunters! Meals will be provided throughout the event.
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.
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 the Boy Scouts of 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 and popcorn sale, or contact the district executive.
Reserve your spot for the adventure of a lifetime now with a $100 deposit!
In Fond Remembrance
Gene Phelps
Gene Phelps became an Eagle Scout at age 14 in Tidewater Council’s Troop 14. He was an extremely active volunteer in Tidewater Council, Boy Scouts of America, serving as a Scoutmaster of Troop 499 and guiding both his sons to achieve the rank of Eagle Scout.
After many years of dedicated service, Gene earned the Silver Beaver Award in 1990.
Gene also worked tirelessly with the Blue Heron Lodge #349, Order of the Arrow, where he became a vital member of the “Tasty Critters” cook crew.
We are forever grateful for the invaluable contributions of Gene Phelps and the profound impact he made on local Scouting.
News
Scouting for Food
If your unit participated in Scouting for Food, please fill out the report form and submit it to william.sherman@scouting.org. After receiving the report, Tidewater Council will provide patches and a unit participation ribbon. Please submit your unit’s report by Friday, April 12 at noon.
If your unit has not done a Scouting for Food drive yet and would like to participate, please contact the district executive to obtain collection bags.
Scout Shop
Be Prepared for Spring Weather
Springtime brings rainy weather, and the Scout Shop has several items to help you stay dry as you begin spring outdoor activities. Check out our camping section for items including ponchos (youth and adult) for $3.99, stormproof matches ($9.99/25 pk.), waterproof fire sticks ($4.99/12 pk.), and the 37-piece BSA Waterproof First Aid Kit ($24.99). This kit includes a waterproof pouch that can be refilled after every use. We also carry emergency blankets ($4.99 and $7.99) and waterproof pouches with waist straps ($9.99). Shop NOW and Be Prepared for ANY weather event!
Journey to Excellence Patches
Still need Journey to Excellence (JTE) patches? National Supply has a limited stock, but, if you order soon, they should still be available. You may place an order over the phone, but it must be prepaid. Patches are $2.79 each.
Eagle Scout Section
We have a few more NEW Eagle Scout items in stock now. The 4-piece ceramic Eagle Scout coaster set is sturdy and decorative in red, white, and blue, with the Eagle rank logo, and sells for $24.99. Also new is the clear glass Eagle 12 oz. tumbler embossed with the 12 points of the Scout Law and the Eagle rank symbol in white. This is a great gift for $19.99. We still have some of the Eagle parents’ tumblers ($16.99), blue with the words “I survived my kid’s Eagle Scout project.” We know ALL parents of Eagle Scouts can relate to that!
Cub Scout Program Changes
As our Cub Scout leaders are aware, the entire Cub Scout program is changing for the 2024-2025 school year, which officially begins June 1, 2024. National Supply is scheduled to have all the new Cub Scout handbooks in by April. Our Scout Shop already has an order in, so as soon as they get their stock, we will start getting ours. Prices will remain at $23.99 for the coil books. Many of the Cub Scout Adventures will remain in the program, but, for those discontinued Adventures, we will require prepayment for those that are out of stock. Since we are unable to return them for credit, we don’t want to end up with overstock. After June 1, we will have the new Adventure belt loops and pins, and a section for discontinued awards until we run out.
Now Hiring
The Tidewater Council Scout Shop is now hiring for a responsible adult to fill the position of Sales Representative. Duties will include working at the cash register, stocking shelves, answering the phone, and working with customers on the sales floor. This position requires a minimum of 16 hours per week at $12 per hour pay. Knowledge of the Scouting program is preferable but not necessary.
Applicants may email a current resume or questions to Polly Fugate, Manager, at polly.fugate@scouting.org. We would like to fill this position by May 1.
Tidewater Council is an equal opportunity employer.
Shipping
Need an order shipped? You may email polly.fugate@scouting.org or staci.vankirk@scouting.org, or call us at 757-497-2688. We will gather your items together, calculate USPS shipping charges, and call you back for payment.
Scout Shop Hours
Our next holiday closings will be:
- March 29-30 for Easter weekend
- May 25-27 for Memorial Day weekend
Registrar's Corner
Webelos Crossover: How to Properly Transfer Scouts
- Before you transfer a Scout into a troop, make sure the pack has recorded/awarded their Arrow of Light (AOL) rank. (You won’t be able to enter it once they have transferred.)
- Do NOT transfer Scouts from one unit to another in ScoutBook. ScoutBook is a tool to track advancement, not a tool to update membership. ScoutBook will initially allow you to add Scouts into your unit, but the official registration system will override your roster, and your changes will be lost.
- Transfers should be done online at my.scouting.org. This is the easiest option and can be done one of two ways:
- Parent initiates the transfer for their Scout, then the receiving unit accepts in Application Manager.
- Pack initiates the transfer, then the receiving unit accepts in Application Manager.
Note: This process is the same any time Scouts are switching units, whether from pack to troop, pack to pack, or troop to troop. The previous unit or parent initiates, and the receiving unit accepts.
- If you cannot do an online transfer, the parent can fill out the youth application (paper or fillable PDF) and submit it to the new unit.
Missing Merit Badge Counselors
If your unit has noticed a “dropped” or “missing” merit badge counselor, please email their name (as listed in My.Scouting) to Jennifer.Mapstone@scouting.org. Please include the leader’s member ID, if known.
If the merit badge counselor does not already hold another paid position, they will need to pay a $25 registration fee.
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.
Psychological First Aid
The purpose of psychological first aid is to provide basic care, comfort, and support to anyone experiencing stress. Stay alert to signs of stress in yourself and others.
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!
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!
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.
Camp Baker Closure Update
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.
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.
April
- National Farm Animals Day: April 10
- Work on the Animal Science merit badge.
- Visit a local farm or petting zoo.
- 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.
May
- National Wildfire Awareness Month
- Work on the Fire Safety merit badge.
- Share the Campfire Safety Safety Moment.
- Share the Behavior Around Campfires Safety Moment.
- Work on the Firem’n Chit.
- National Loyalty Day: May 1
- A Scout is Loyal. Discuss what it means to be loyal.
- Display the American flag.
- Say the Pledge of Allegiance.
- Work on the Citizenship in the Nation merit badge.
- World Laughter Day: May 5
- Invite each Scout to tell a joke.
- Ask each den or patrol to perform a funny skit.
- Read the jokes in Scout Life’s Think & Grin section.
- Submit a joke to Think & Grin.
- National Children’s Mental Health Awareness Day: May 9
- Share mental health-related Safety Moments:
- Provide resources, such as the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline (1-800-273-8255) and the BSA’s Bullying Awareness resources.
- National Archery Day: May 11
- Sign up for an upcoming event including archery:
- Princess Anne Cub Scouts Shooting Sports Day on June 1
- Cub Scout Day Camp
- Summer Resident Camp at Pipsico Scout Reservation
- Save the date for fall Guns ‘n’ Grillin’ (Registration opens July 22)
- Sign up for an upcoming event including archery:
- National River Cleanup Day: May 18
- Organize or volunteer with a river cleanup.
- Educate Scouts about clean waterways.
- Work on the Soil and Water Conservation merit badge.
- Memorial Day: May 27
- Participate in a local parade or ceremony.
- Observe the National Moment of Remembrance at 3 PM.
- Visit a military cemetery.
Community Engagement
Coast Guard Marathon Family Fun Day: April 6
Tuskegee Airmen Tidewater Chapter Drone STEM Summer Camp: June 24-28
The Tuskegee Airman Tidewater Chapter is excited to announce that they will be conducting the fifth consecutive Drone STEM Summer Camp from June 24-28, 2024. They invite members of Scouts BSA who are 6th-8th graders to attend.
The Drone Camp is a cost-free, five-day camp that will be held at Gethsemane Baptist Church, 5405 Roanoke Avenue, Newport News, Virginia. The camp runs from 8:30 AM – 3:00 PM each day, and parents are welcome to stay on site.
The Hampton Chapter of Tuskegee Airmen with FAA Commercial Drone Pilot Certifications, current/former civilian/military aviators, and current/former high school/college educators will facilitate camp curriculum/instruction. Guest presenters from industry, first-responder agencies, the military, and college-level drone programs will be invited to highlight drone utilization and link Career Technical Education, Early College, and High School programs as pathways to aviation associated careers. The camp will include both classroom instruction and drone piloting skills.
There are very limited spots reserved. Due to limited availability, this opportunity is intended for individual Scout registration, not full troops. Participants must pass the The Recreational UAS Safety Test (TRUST) prior to camp, as required by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).
The registration deadline is April 22, 2024. If interested or if you have any questions, please contact Mei Stukes at mstukes89@gmail.com.
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 the Scouts who have earned the highest rank of Eagle Scout in January and February 2024!
Thank you to all who attended and supported the Annual Leadership Breakfast featuring Gary Clark!
Special thanks to event chair Jack Ross, the Friends of Scouting Leadership Team led by Charlie Mallon, Vice President of Finance Ron Kilmer, emcee Joe Flanagan, table hosts, sponsors, guests, donors, speakers, staff led by Development Director Christy Cooper, and, of course, Gary Clark!
We are very grateful to the Scouts who attended and supported the event including the Color Guard from Troop 19 and Troop 1791, Katie L. of Troop 5067, Sebastian D. of Troop 375, Erabella G. of Pack 2700, Demarcus W. of Pack 2700, Gidget S. of Troop 1791, Damarion E. of Troop 934, and Danarion E. of Troop 934.
The event highlighted the impact of Scouting in our community and raised more than $65,000 for Friends of Scouting!
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).
