Isaiah Pelc Earns Eagle Scout Status

Portland Boy Scout Troop 129 announced a new Eagle Scout, Isaiah Pelc, on January 15, 2021. Isaiah is a Sophomore at Portland High School and was able to complete his Eagle Scout Service Project and Board of Review during the pandemic.

Isaiah’s project included a total of over 92 man-hours and consisted of constructing two sets of wooden lockers for the wrestling room in PHS topped with a library of success books for wrestlers to read. The library is compiled of book donations from wrestling alumni and other significant people in Isaiah’s life that have been positively impacted by books. Isaiah started the library with six books he has personally read- ‘21 Irrefutable Laws of Leadership’, ‘The Compound Effect’, ‘The Magic of Thinking Big’, ‘The Holy Bible’, ‘Wrestling Tough’, and ‘Take the Stairs’.

In addition to participating in Boy Scouts, he was a freshman State Qualifier wrestler, a member of the PHS football and baseball teams, a member of student council, BIONIC suicide prevention group, and Ionia County Youth Advisory Council (YAC). He is an avid piano player and is a member of St. Patrick’s Church and serves as an acolyte.

Isaiah wishes to use this experience to become the best version of himself and give back to his community while leaving an impact on others that will last a lifetime. Isaiah stated, “My wrestling coach, Mr. Pulling often talks about legacy. Working towards something that benefits more than yourself and is left behind for others to enjoy once your time is up. I was able to accomplish a small glimpse of my legacy in this project and I hope to build on the leadership and service experience I obtained by continuing to invest in and give back to others”.

He is thankful for those who came before him in Scouting to pave the way, including his past and current Scout Leaders for committing the time and effort to help the young men in our community.

Scoutmaster John Sheehan said “Isaiah’s enthusiasm and ambition get him so much from Scouting. He uses these same qualities to make Scouting and his other community involvements the best for everyone.”

Isaiah wishes to thank:

• Troop 129 Committee members: Donna Payne, Chip Weygandt, Dawn and Tom Ward, John and Erica Sheehan, Michelle Simon, Bryan Gehrcke, Kelli Dodson, Andrea Kowatch, and Jesse Ward for all of their time and commitment to the Troop and to the young men of our community.

• Andy Pulling, Head Wrestling Coach PHS for his assistance and support on this project and all the Wrestling Alumni who donated books and resources.

• Jerry Brown for all the hours of help, project planning discussions, and use of his shop and tools!

• Kevin Neely, Representative from Michigan Crossroads Council BSA

• Grand River Conservation Club, Troop 129 Charter Organization

Courtesy photos.