UPDATE: Community Steps Up to Help Out Cub Scouts with Extra Popcorn

Two weeks ago, After an ordering snafu, pack leaders realized they would need to sell off $7,000 worth of the snack, or front the cost themselves—until the community came to their rescue.

When Patch first met the pack, $5,500 of the popcorn was still piled up in a leader's garage. With a sizable donation from Orland Park-based and subsequent purchases by residents, the pack has recovered $5,000 of the cost—so close to the full amount.

"We still have a little ways to go ($500 to be exact), and I am confident we will get there," said Jason Akai, committee chair for Pack 341. "We have about $3,000 in inventory at my house and in the hands of pack leaders. All of the proceeds go directly to help our Pack."

Some have donated sums of money, without taking the popcorn. Some buyers have requested that the pack donate their portions of the popcorn to local shelters and charities, and Akai said the group plans to honor those wishes.

Akai wishes to thank those who have reached out to help them solve the problem:

• Chuck Toland, alderman
• Pat Gordon, former Mayor
• Jim McGonigal, owner of Aurelio's in Palos and scout leader/parent
• Calumet Council, Boy Scouts of America
• Family and friends of Pack 341
• Readers of the Patch

Akai would like to sell the remaining inventory. Boxes of kettle corn, butter and lite remain, with 18 bags per box, at $20 per box. Also, caramel corn bags are going for $10 each, and 2.5-pound bags of popping corn (loose, unpopped) are $10 each. If you're interested in purchasing some popcorn, email jasonakai@gmail.com.