Old North State Council Property Closures (Feb 6-9)
Due to the significant accumulation of snow and ice, combined with continued dangerously low temperatures, all Old North State Council properties will close to visitors from 4:00 pm on Friday, February 6, through 10:00 am on Monday, February 9.
The safety of our Scouts, volunteers, and staff is our absolute priority. Current conditions have created several hazards that make safe operations impossible:
- Hazardous Walking Conditions: Significant ice accumulation on trails and pathways has created unsafe walking surfaces throughout the camps.
- Accessibility Concerns: Our camps are particularly unsafe for individuals with mobility challenges, as paved and unpaved paths remain slick and impassable.
- Extreme Temperatures: Sustained low temperatures present a heightened risk for cold-weather injuries during outdoor activities.
Impacted Properties Include:
- Cherokee Scout Reservation
- Hagan Sea Base
- Hemric Scout Reservation
Safety Moment
Scouting on through the storm: Be Prepared for Winter Wellness
North Carolina just endured a “statewide snowstorm for the ages”. During the weekend of January 31 – February 1, 2026, all 100 counties reported snowfall, with some areas receiving up to 19.5 inches. This was followed by a record-breaking Arctic deep freeze, where temperatures plummeted to -1°F in Lumberton and 3°F in Greensboro.
While the snowpack is now melting, more winter weather is on the way.
Impact of Winter Weather on Mental Health
Extended periods of cold and isolation can significantly impact mental well-being:
- Disrupted Routines: Sudden closures of schools and activities can lead to increased anxiety and a sense of losing control.
- “Winter Blues” & SAD: Reduced sunlight disrupts the body’s internal clock and lowers serotonin levels, contributing to Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD).
- Heightened Stress: The uncertainty of preparing for back-to-back storms can trigger physical tension and “racing thoughts,” especially for those with past weather-related trauma.
Safety Moment: Mentally Awake in the Winter Chill
As Scouts, we pride ourselves on being “prepared” for the trail, but being “mentally awake” is just as vital when the trail is covered in ice. After our recent historic snowfall and record-breaking cold, it’s normal for both youth and adults to feel the strain of the “winter blues” or the stress of disrupted routines.
Tips for Winter Wellness:
- Maintain a Routine: Even if your troop meeting is virtual or a campout is postponed, use “time-blocking” to create a sense of structure at home.
- Keep Moving: Just five minutes of physical movement indoors can significantly boost your mood.
- Check Your “C-O-L-D” for the Mind: Just as we keep our clothes Clean, avoid Overheating, wear Layers, and stay Dry, do the same for your mental state. Keep your schedule Clear, avoid Overloading with negative news, Layer your day with positive activities, and Detach from screens to connect with family.
- Practice “Rapid Resets”: Use sensory tools like rhythmic tapping or noticing five colors in the room to help ground yourself during stressful storms.
Support Resources:
- NCDHHS Mental Health Support: Visit the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services (NCDHHS) for a full list of disaster recovery and behavioral health materials.
- Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration: Access free tools for managing weather-related stress at SAMHSA.gov
- Scouting Safety: Review the official Scouting America Safety Moment on Depression for signs to watch for in your unit.
- Immediate Help: If you or someone you know is in crisis, call or text 988 for the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.
Stay safe, stay warm, and keep looking out for one another, Scouts!
Good News
Congratulations to the January Eagles
Despite all of the winter weather our region has experienced and all of the cancellations/delays/closures/etc. which has come with it, we would be remissed if we did not take a moment and congratulate the 19 Scouts who earned their Eagle Rank during the month of January:
Jack W – Troop 65
Graham H – Troop 17
Ethan D – Troop 575
Sidney M – Troop 505
Elliott M – Troop 527
Jonah L – Troop 508
Brock H – Troop 101
Quinten S – Troop 4
Jack B – Troop 216
Owen J – Troop 25
James V – Troop 4
Alex O – Troop 25
James M – Troop 57
Collin H – Troop 103
Theodore H – Troop 216
Ansley L – Troop 219
Jack K – Troop 230
William S – Troop 101
Features
More Than Just A Summer Job: Building Your Future at Cherokee Scout Reservation
Scouts, as you plan for the upcoming season, consider a “real job” that offers more than just a paycheck. Working at Cherokee Scout Reservation (CSR) is an opportunity to join a world-class team and gain the professional edge that employers and colleges actively seek.
Through the American Camp Association’s (ACA) Project Real Job, research shows that camp employment is a premier setting for developing “21st-century skills”—competencies like communication, critical thinking, and collaboration that are essential in any career.
Why Work at CSR in 2026?
- A “Leadership Boot Camp”: You won’t just supervise; you will lead, mentor, and inspire the next generation of Scouts. This hands-on experience in managing groups is a powerful addition to any resume.
- Professional Skill Building: Employers value the “real-world context” camp provides. Managing 40+ merit badges and signature areas like the Aviation Lab or Blacksmith Shop demonstrates high-level responsibility and dedication.
- Networking and Mentorship: You’ll connect with adult leaders from diverse industries who visit camp, building a professional network that can last a lifetime.
- Meaningful Impact: Beyond personal growth, you’ll be a hero to younger Scouts, helping them feel capable and included in the outdoors.
Application & Opportunities
We are looking for dedicated individuals ready to deliver a world-class Scouting experience.
- Full-Time Staff: Applicants must be at least 15 years old by June 1, 2026.
- How to Apply: Submit your application through the Old North State Council Summer Camp Staff Portal and schedule an interview with Camp Director Bud Harrelson.
| Position | Minimum Age |
| ATV Director | 21+ |
| FROGS Instructor | 15+ |
| Health & Safety Director | 18+ |
| Weekend Supervision | 21+ |
| Health Officer | 21+ |
| Multi-Media Coordinator | 18+ |
| Assistant Provisional Scoutmater | 21+ |
| Scoutcraft Instructor | 15+ |
| STEM Instructor | 15+ |
Ready to turn your summer into a career-building adventure? For more information, email bud.harrelson@scouting.org. .
Don’t just have a summer—make a difference!
THE CLOCK IS TICKING:
WHY YOU CAN’T AFFORD TO MISS THE OLD NORTH STATE COUNCIL WOOD BADGE REUNION
In the world of Scouting, we often talk about “leaving a legacy,” but how often do we stop to recharge the very spirit that fuels that legacy? For every Scouter in the Old North State Council, the Wood Badge Reunion + Breakfast on Saturday, February 21, 2026, isn’t just another calendar entry—it is a critical moment to reconnect with the “mountaintop experience” that transformed your leadership.
However, the window to secure your seat is closing fast. Here is why you must act now.
Reconnect with Your Patrol (Before the Trail Goes Cold)
We all remember the bond formed in the woods—the late-night planning, the “storming” phase of team development, and the eventual triumph of a high-performing patrol. Life gets busy, and those connections can fade. This reunion is the designated time to reconnect with fellow graduates and share the tales that only another Wood Badger can truly appreciate. Bring your patrol flags, your “stuffed critters,” and your Wood Badge spirit back to St. Pius X Catholic Church in Greensboro.
Fuel the Future of Leadership
The urgency isn’t just about your own experience—it’s about the Scouts waiting for their chance. A primary goal of this breakfast is to raise funds for camperships. These funds directly support youth attending National Youth Leadership Training (NYLT) and fellow Scouters aiming for their own beads. Your attendance ensures that the next generation of leaders in our council has the financial support to succeed.
A “Scouting U” Kickoff
This reunion serves as a high-energy precursor to Scouting U on February 28, the council’s premier training day. Attending the reunion allows you to network with the expert instructors and seasoned Scouters who make our council’s training programs world-class.
Event Details at a Glance:
- When: Saturday, February 21, 2026 (9:00 AM – 11:30 AM)
- Where: St. Pius X Catholic Church, Greensboro, NC
- Deadline: Register via the ONSC Event Page by Feb 17.
Don’t wait until the “Back to Gilwell” song starts without you. Every Scout deserves a trained leader, and every leader deserves a community that supports them. Claim your spot today.
IS YOUR GEAR WORKING FOR YOU?
DON’T MISS THE REI MASTERCLASS AT SCOUTING U!
- When: Saturday, February 28, 2026
- Where: St. Pius X Catholic Church, 2210 N. Elm St., Greensboro, NC
- Registration Link
Scouters, the trail doesn’t wait, and neither should you. Scouting U is rapidly approaching on Saturday, February 28, 2026, at St. Pius X in Greensboro, and if you haven’t secured your spot yet, you’re about to miss the most practical training event of the year.
We often tell our Scouts to be prepared, but when was the last time you sharpened your outdoor skills? This year, we are thrilled to announce a powerhouse partnership with REI, the premier authority in outdoor gear. They are bringing their expert technicians directly to you for three “can’t-miss” sessions designed to save your back, your sleep, and your sanity on the trail.
The REI Triple-Threat Schedule:
- How to Fit a Pack:
Stop “muscling through” a poorly adjusted bag. REI representatives will demonstrate the precise science of torso measurement and strap adjustment. Whether you’re a seasoned trekker or a new Cub leader, learning how to properly distribute weight is the difference between a great hike and a week of back pain. - How to Choose a Sleep System:
The days of shivering on a thin foam pad are over. REI will showcase the latest in sleep system technology—from R-values to mummy vs. quilt setups—giving you the insider knowledge to stay warm and rested in the North Carolina-backcountry. - How to Pack a Pack for a Backpacking Trip:
There is an art to center-of-gravity packing. Learn the professional techniques for loading your gear so your pack works with your body, not against it. This session is essential for any leader planning to take a crew on a high-adventure trek.
Why You Need to Act NOW:
Scouting U isn’t just about checkboxes; it’s about providing the high-quality program your Scouts deserve. These REI sessions are open to All Scout Leaders, but space in the classrooms is limited.
Don’t be the leader who struggles with gear while your Scouts look to you for guidance. Sharpen your edge, learn from the best in the industry, and bring that expertise back to your unit.
Click Here to Register for Scouting U 2026 before the classes hit capacity. We’ll see you in the classroom—and on the trail!
⚡️ Wilderness Unbound: Are You Prepared to Survive? ⚡️
Scouts and Scouters, listen closely. The wilderness is stirring, and it demands your mastery.
Registration for the Old North State Council Camporee + North is open.
This isn’t just another weekend in the woods. This is where mettle meets the challenge, where your patrol’s training is put to the ultimate test. We are transforming the ordinary into the extraordinary, focusing on the raw skills needed to thrive when the unexpected happens.
Think you have what it takes to build a shelter from scratch? To navigate using only primitive tools? To prove your mettle against the best patrols in the Council?
This is your arena.
📅 March 27-29, 2026
📍 Camp Springs Blue Grass Park, Caswell County, NC
Don’t let your Troop miss out on the competition and the camaraderie.
Dare to answer the call of the wild?
SECURE YOUR TROOP’S SPOT TODAY!
Be prepared.
Bullseye! Registration Now Open for Spring Cub Scout BB & Archery Fun Days
Get your eye on the target! The Old North State Council is excited to announce that registration is officially live for our upcoming Cub Scout BB & Archery Fun Days at Cherokee Scout Reservation.
As any experienced Cub Leader knows, shooting sports are a highlight of the Scouting journey. These events allow Scouts to build confidence, self-reliance, and safety awareness.
Mark Your Calendars:
Saturday, April 11, 2026
Deadline: Register via the Old North State Event Registration Portal by Tuesday, April 7, at 11:59 PM.
Saturday, May 9, 2026
Deadline: Register via the Old North State Event Registration Portal by Tuesday, May 5, at 11:59 PM.
Important Event Details:
- Location: Cherokee Scout Reservation, 3296 Boy Scout Camp Rd, Yanceyville, NC.
- Cost: Only $5.00 per shooter. To ensure a smooth experience, billing is handled at the Pack level based on the final head count at the event.
- Registration Policy: Registration must be completed by the Pack, not by individual families.
- Eligibility: Lion Cubs are not allowed to shoot BBs. Lion Cubs can shoot archery.
Slots fill up quickly for these popular events. Coordinate with your unit leader today to ensure your Pack is on the range this spring!
Tsoiotsi Tsogalii LODGE
2026 CARDINAL CONCLAVE
FLAP & T-SHIRT PRE-ORDER
If you are interested in registering for the 2026 Cardinal Conclave (April 17-19, 2026 at Camp Durant) use this link.
https://conclaveregistration.org/section/e8
The pre-order deadline for conclave flaps (Dr. Seuss red-border flap) is 11:59 pm on Thursday, March 5.
The pre-order deadline for the conclave t-shirt is 11:59 pm on Tuesday, March 24.
The lodge’s 2026 Conclave Theme is Dr. Seuss.
We are making two versions of the Dr. Seuss flap.
Version 1: Cat-in-the-Hat with a red-and-white border (only available at conclave)
Version 2: Red border (available for pre-order)
Version 1: Cat-in-the-Hat Version with a red and white border (Only available at conclave)
Each Arrowman who attends the 2026 Conclave with the lodge contingent will receive one of the Cat-in-the-Hat versions of the flap included in their spirit pack.
Additional Cat-in-the-Hat versions of the flap may be available for purchase during the conclave only.
A limited supply of the Cat-in-the-Hat version will be ordered.
Version 2: Solid Red Border (Available for pre-order)
The Conclave 2026 Dr. Seuss flap, featuring a solid red border, is now available for pre-order.
The pre-order deadline for conclave flaps is 11:59 pm on Thursday, March 5.
Anyone, even people who are not attending the conclave, can order this flap.
Delivery Method and Cost:
Option 1 – Pick up at the conclave.
- Cost $5.00
- NOTE: If you select the pick-up-at-conclave option, you must be present at the conclave to pick up your order. If your order is not picked up from the lodge’s conclave campsite by 12:00 noon on Saturday of the conclave, your order will be forfeited. The flaps will return to the lodge inventory. A refund will not be processed.
Option 2 – Mailed to your home after the conclave.
- Cost $7.00
- Arrowmen who are not attending the conclave may pre-order patches.
- We anticipate that patches will be mailed on Monday, May 4 from the Yanceyville, NC Post Office.
There is the possibility that some 2026 conclave patches will be available for sale during the conclave, but there are no guarantees.
The pre-order deadline for conclave flaps is Thursday, March 5 at 11:59 pm.
Dr. Seuss Conclave 2026 T-shirt (only available for pre-order)
The Conclave 2026 Dr. Seuss t-shirt is available for pre-order.
The pre-order deadline for conclave t-shirts is 11:59 pm on Tuesday, March 24.
Extra t-shirts will not be available for sale at the conclave.
Anyone, even people who are not attending the conclave, can order this t-shirt.
Delivery Method and Cost:
Option 1 – Pick up at the conclave.
- Cost:
- Adult Small through Adult XL – $17.00
- Adult 2XL – $19.00
- Adult 3XL – $20.00
- Adult 4XL – $21.00
- NOTE: If you select the pick-up-at-conclave option, you must be present at the conclave to pick up your order. If your order is not picked up from the lodge’s conclave campsite by 12:00 noon on Saturday of the conclave, your order will be forfeited. The t-shirt will return to the lodge inventory. A refund will not be processed.
Option 2 – Mailed to your home after the conclave.
- Cost:
- Adult Small through XL – $20.00
- Adult 2XL – $22.00
- Adult 3XL – $23.00
- Adult 4XL – $24.00
- Arrowmen who are not attending the conclave may pre-order t-shirts.
- We anticipate that t-shirts will be mailed on Monday, May 4 from the Yanceyville, NC Post Office.
The pre-order deadline for conclave t-shirts is Tuesday, March 24 at 11:59 pm.
Direct questions to OA Staff Adviser Bud Harrelson at bud.harrelson@scouting.org.
UPCOMING CALENDAR
Pro tip: Click each one for more info and registration links.
February 2026
Feb 1 – Scouts on Skis, Winter Place – Session 3
Feb 5 – Camp Card Pick up Begins at Roundtable
Feb 6-7 – OA Trade-o-ree, Jamestown Presbyterian, Jamestown
Feb 8 – Scout Sunday
Feb 8 – Scouts on Skis, Winter Place – Session 4
Feb 15 – Cub BB & Archery Range Safety Officer Recertification, Virtual
Feb 21 – Wood Badge Reunion + Breakfast, St. Pius X Catholic Church, Greensboro
Feb 28 – Scouting U (for Cub and Scouts BSA Leaders), St. Pius X Catholic Church, Greensboro
March 2026
Mar 1 – Scout Day at Greensboro Gargoyles (Hockey)
Mar 6 – Scout Night At Greenboro Swarm (Basketball)
Mar 7 – Merit Badge College + South, Davie/Davidson Community College
Mar 13-15 – OA Spring Fellowship, CSR
Mar 21 – Merit Badge College + North, Rockingham Community College
Mar 22 – The Art of Training, Scout Service Center
Mar 27-29 – NRA Rifle & Shotgun Basic Course, CSR
Mar 27-29 – Scouts BSA Spring Camporee, Camp Springs Bluegrass Festival, Elon
Royce Reynolds Family Scout Center
1405 Westover Terrace, Greensboro, North Carolina 27408
*Note* We've discontinued our PO Box. Please send all correspondence to the address above.
Scout Office
Office 336 378-9166
Fax 336-617-9196
Mon – Fri 8:30am – 5pm
Scout Shop
(336) 235-0977
Mon – Fri 10am – 5pm
(closed for lunch 2-2:30)
Sat 10am – 2pm