July 2, 2010
Camp Pa-Qua-Tuck Congratulates Anthony Ricci for Achieving Rank of Eagle Scout
For his service project, Mr. Ricci designed two wheelchair-accessible raised garden boxes for the campers at Camp Pa-Qua-Tuck. Each garden box has a bench attached to one side which will allow handicapped children the ability to rest or lean while gardening. The garden boxes will help the children provide beauty to the surroundings near the camp’s trading post, as well as improve the campers’ self-esteem and understanding of nature.
Mr. Ricci directed his fellow scouts throughout the construction process, which took 100 man-hours to complete. The boxes were constructed in a barn and later moved to the installation site near the camp’s trading post. To fund his project, Mr. Ricci received donations from local businesses, friends and family and had a local lumber yard donate materials at cost.
The Eagle Scout is the highest rank a Boy Scout can achieve. According to the Boy Scouts of America, less than 4 percent of Boy Scouts have reached that milestone. Mr. Ricci has been a scout for eight years. He is a scribe, a troop guide and a senior patrol leader. His accomplishments include 28 merit badges and three special awards, including the Arrow of Light, the highest honor in the Cub Scouts. A graduating high school student, he will attend SUNY Binghamton in the fall.
“We are so appreciative for what Anthony has done for us,” Ms. Gilrane said. “The campers will benefit so much from the garden boxes he built for us. We’re glad he’s being honored for his achievements.”
Camp Pa-Qua-Tuck is a resident summer camp designed for young people ages 6-21 with special needs. Its mission is to help children and adults achieve equality, dignity, and maximum independence through a safe and quality program of camping, recreation, and education in a summertime environment. Throughout the program, campers participate in typical summer camp activities, such as arts and crafts, talent shows, cook-outs, swimming and boating.
Pictured (left to right): Jean Gilrane (third from right), Director, Camp Pa-Qua-Tuck, congratulates Anthony Ricci (third from left) on achieving the rank of Eagle Scout. Also pictured (l-r): Anthony and Frances Ricci, Anthony’s parents; Joseph Bilardello, Scoutmaster, Troop 414 of Center Moriches; and Dolores Vlismas, Member, Moriches Paquatuck Squaws.
