Boy Scout Troop 335

Troop 335 at Spring Camporee 2009

Boy Scouting is a program that teaches today's youth leadership, independence, and outdoor skills that will benefit them throughout life. Experienced Scouts teach younger Scouts the skills and knowledge they have learned.

Troop 335 is an active, youth-run Troop. We have weekly Troop meetings in Palatine. Parents are always welcomed and encouraged to participate.

Troop 335 is an active Troop that camps monthly throughout the year. Klondike in January, Spring Camporee in April, Fall Camporee in September, Webelos Unplugged in November are some of the Council-sponsored campouts we attend. In addition, we've had weekend campout or day trips to various campgrounds around northern Illinois, Cobia Submarine in Wisconsin, Game Works, Bowling, and others. Parents are not required to attend all campouts but they're always welcome to join us. (By the way, our Scouts cook G-R-E-A-T meals!).

The younger Scouts (under 14 years of age) typically sign up for a week at the Northwest Suburban Council's Camp Napowan in central Wisconsin: swimming, boating, archery, rifle, shotgun, nature, Scout skills and creative activities are available all week long at this professionally-run camp. It is a great time to earn Merit Badges, learn new skills, meet new friends, and enjoy the beauty of nature. Camp Napowan has received national recognition for its program, including its Flintlock pioneer village with working forge.

Older Scouts attending Camp Napowan are challenged to take on leadership roles and work on some of the more difficult outdoor merit badges. They can also test their leadership and Scouting skills by taking the COPE challenge course.

The experienced Scouts (over 14 years of age) are eligible to attend our Troop's varied High Adventures. In recent years, our High Adventures have included Philmont (a working ranch in New Mexico), Boundary Waters (canoeing), fly-in fishing trips to Canada, Sea Base in Florida, and hiking in Alaska and in Glacier National Park in Montana. These trips challenge Scouts (and adults!) physically as well as provide an experience of a lifetime.

Community service is a big part of our Troop. Each year, our Troop volunteers to help at the Avon Breast Cancer Walk (setting up tents for the walkers) and at the Relay For Life in Palatine. Other service projects have included park clean up, serving meals at our chartered organization, and volunteering at other fundraisers throughout the community.

Troop 335 has two excellent Scoutmasters: Chip Miceli and George Clos. Other adults and parents are very active in the Troop as well. Although we are a boy-led troop, adults are needed for financial matters, to attend campouts, and provide mentoring and guidance to the Scouts.

In recognition of their dedication, Troop 335 leaders were recognized for their service at the Signal Hill District Award of Merit Dinner held January 4, 2009.

• Troop Committee Chair - Kathy Davie
• Troop Committee Member - John Klein
• Troop Committee Member - Joe Quinn
• Assistant Scoutmaster - Bob Diaz

New members are always welcome to Troop 335. Boys must be at least 11 years old or have completed the 5th grade.

For more information, contact Committee Chair Kathy Davie (847-397-3598), or ScoutMasters Chip Micelli (847-934-4447) or George Clos (847-366-5259).