We are often asked to help with Service Projects.  In this case, one of our Scouts met Mrs. Fowler.  She works at Clearwater Elementary in Waukegan, which is a school like Copeland Manor in Libertyville.  the difference is that all of the students at Clearwater Elementary receive free breakfast and lunch daily.  Many of the families qualify for a “backpack program” where they take home a rolling backpack full of canned goods from the Northern Illinois Food Bank every weekend. Most families also get a “Thanksgiving break box, winter break box, and spring break box” just so they don’t go too hungry over breaks. 

The greatest need is for gently used underwear and/or socks.  Otherwise, there are many families with boys all ages who could use the clothes as long as they’re being donated. The Copeland Girl Scout Troop felt better about giving to people who really need it than to just drop it off at Goodwill.  No pressure, but if you have gently used boys clothing to donate, please bring to the next Troop meeting on Monday (March 16).  Thank You!

Our April campout will be at nearby Van Patten Woods in Wadsworth.  The theme is biking.  On Saturday, we'll bike south on the Des Plaines River Trail, stop for a trail lunch, and then bike back to camp.  

Troop - It's time to start planning for summer camp!  We will be going to Makajawan June 21-27.  The cost this year is $425 if you register before May 1. 

The Copeland School Fun Fair needs help running fun games for kids.  There are 90-min and 3-hr shifts available 10am-1pm this Saturday.  Please consider helping out while earning service hours towards rank advancement.  Register HERE.

Calling all Troop 71 Scouts, we are hosting the Order of the Arrow induction election next Monday night (3/9/2026) during the Troop meeting.  We need everyone to attend to have a clean vote.  Be Be sure to attend.  If you are in the Order of the Arrow, please wear your sash. 

The Order of the Arrow is the honor society of Scouting America, composed of Scouts and Scouters who best exemplify the Scout Oath and Law in their daily lives as elected by their peers.  To be eligible for an Order of the Arrow election, a Scout must be a registered member of Scouting America, have completed 15 nights of camping within the last two years, and hold the rank of First Class or higher. Additionally, they must be recommended by their unit leader and participate in a unit election where all youth members vote.

Troop 60 has a crew going to Philmont this summer for a 12-day trek starting on 7/5/26.  A couple Scouts have stepped away leaving some open slots (opportunity).  The itinerary lottery just happened and the group is doing itinerary 12-4.  I have attached the Itinerary.  The T60 crew will be scheduling a series of prep hikes (likely Sunday afternoons) at nearby locations to train and do some crew building and learn some Philmont-specific skills (e.g., learn about the "bearmuda triangle", put up a dining fly, etc.).  The crew would of course welcome and encourage any joiners from your units to join them on these prep hikes and other planning meetings.

 Itinerary 12-4: Challenging (maximum program time with shorter hiking time) - 60 miles

Enjoy unique challenges in the Philmont's North Country on this 12-day trek. Learn about the legacy and impact of the Cimarron & Northwestern Railroad at Metcalf Station in the North Ponil Canyon and join the nightly company meeting. If your crew is up for the challenge, climb Hart Peak and take in views of the surrounding canyons and peaks before learning the art of burro packing at Ponil. Lace up your boots and prepare to hike Baldy Mountain and experience life in the Baldy region at the turn of the 20th century in Baldytown. Wrap up your trek and leave your mark with trail construction at the Sioux conservation site before heading back into Base Camp.

Interested Scouts must be 14 years old.  The cost was not provided but we can assume this 12-day trek with Amtrack transportation to and from Philmont to run roughly $2400 per person.

If you are interested, contact Mr. Giamis asap to make the connection!