June 18-20 - Mackinac Island Campout

July 10-17 - Summer Camp at Cole Canoe Base

You could send it out in an email blast or post it on the troop’s social media page, but as time marches on, the link likely would get lost in those busy channels. If only there was a source that would collect and prioritize helpful information in a handy digital format. The BSA is seeking Scouts to beta-test a new app designed to do just that. It’s called the Merit Badge Helpers app.

Scouts ages 14-20 can apply here – https://bit.ly/3oPTziu

They will need parental permission and any emails will also be sent to parents. Scouts should expect at least a four-hour commitment testing the app and providing feedback. Initial design allows users to post links connected to merit badge requirements. These can be videos, social media permalinks, webpages — anything that Scouts could find helpful. Users can rate the usefulness of each link, increasing its ability to be seen. Every link will be reviewed before it goes live.

Another update:  From Bryan on Scouting:  https://blog.scoutingmagazine.org/2021/01/19/scouts-can-help-protect-the-environment-by-earning-the-new-environmental-protection-agency-award/

Update:  Here's a link to the application:  https://i9peu1ikn3a16vg4e45rqi17-wpengine.netdna-ssl.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/512-09821_EPAAward.pdf

Fantastic news today from the EPA and the Boy Scouts, they are launching an environmental award program. 

Here is a quick overview.

 - 4 Merit Badges are needed to be earned:
 - 1 from Animal Sciences - Bird Study, Mammal Study, Reptile and Amphibian Study, Insect Study
 - 1 from Outdoor Activities - Backpacking, Camping, Gardening, Climbing, Canoeing
 - 1 from Earth Sciences - Energy, Forestry, Oceanography, Geology, Plant Science, Weather
 - The final merit badge is Public Health. Plus 6 hours of a conservation / public health service project.

Scouts, you'll need to hurry for this one. There is only a year and half to earn this, must be completed by December 2021.

Have fun & Scout On!

Learn more on this article - https://www.epa.gov/newsreleases/epa-boy-scouts-announce-collaboration-environmental-education-award-program-and-special

Here is the link to the video of the announcement: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=s_6V4fRrGmo

In case you weren't on the Webinar Sunday night, it was announced that we have merged the lodges in the Michigan Crossroads Council into a new lodge named Michigami.

We're keeping 29 as the lodge number (formerly Noquet's number).

There's a contest for the new Lodge Flap and below are the details.  It's open to youth and adults (I asked), so get creative!

Recharter fees are now due for 2021.  These fees go directly to Scouts BSA and are required to be a part of the program. 

Please pay your fees at https://scoutpay.site/checkout/44387

All who have not yet paid the dues for the year should have received an email with the amount due after fundraising.

Would you rather pay with a credit card?  If so, add 3% to your amount due and send to treasurer@troop1701.org