Scout Safety Moment: the C.O.L.D. Method

When it comes to winter safety, staying warm and dry is essential! The C.O.L.D. Method is your go-to guide for dressing smartly in chilly weather. C = Clean (keep your insulation clean and fluffy), O = Overheating (avoid overheating by adjusting your layers and staying hydrated), L = Loose Layers (wear loose-fitting layers to trap heat and keep your circulation flowing), D = Dry (damp clothes can chill you fast).

[Learn More About Winter Activity Safety]

The Camp Card Sale is Open for Pre-Orders!

Looking for an easy fundraising opportunity? Camp Cards are a great way to raise dollars for your unit and can also be used to provide the necessary funds needed for summer and fall camping programs! Scouts will "clean-up" this year as we are excited to have Flagstop Car Wash join our Camp Card program and offer a FREE Ultimate Car Wash on each card (stay tuned for details)!

After a successful 2024 Camp Card fundraiser, the Product Sale Committee of the Heart of Virginia Council will continue the $10 Camp Card for 2025. There are 4 big reasons the $10 card was successful…

[Read All About It & Register]

Exciting News: Custom Unit Number Patches

Now you can order custom unit number patches with no minimum required—even just one! If you prefer the clean look of a single patch on your uniform or want to skip sewing multiple individual number patches, we’ve got you covered.  Contact the Scout Shop at scoutshophovc@scouting.org or 804-204-2628 to place your order.

⏳ No time to sew? Bring your shirt, patches, or merit badges and sash to the Scout Shop, and we’ll handle it for you!

[Visit the Scout Shop Webpage]

Polish Your Pinewood Derby Car's Axles and Wheels

Polishing your Pinewood Derby car's axles and wheels is crucial for maximizing speed. There are a few steps you can take to help you achieve a smooth finish:

1. Select Straight Axles
2. Remove Imperfections
3. Polish Components
4. Ensure Proper Alignment
5. Lubricate with Graphite

Visit the Scout Shop for kits and accessories!

[Read More at ScoutLife.org]

James River District Klondike Derby

February 7th—9th

The James River District Klondike Derby is an action-packed winter camping event for Scouts BSA and Cub Scouts. Scouts will test their skills, teamwork, and problem-solving abilities as they compete in various activities and stations, earning “gold nuggets” based on their performance. These nuggets can be used at the evening equipment auction, adding excitement and motivation for each team. While Cub Scouts have the option to participate in the day-only events, Scouts BSA teams will enjoy overnight camping and the chance to showcase their meal planning and cooking skills as part of the competition.

[Go for the Gold!]

Get these five stories and so much more by reading the Courier, our monthly newsletter! Scheduled for the last Friday of the month at noon, the Courier features all the news, special events, and useful information you need to get the most of your Scouting experience.

[Read This Month's Courier]