Mayor Robert Zimmerman and Deputy Mayor Pete Scirrotto presented Eagle Scout Brandon Byrne with a proclamation recognizing his work in the township at the Mantua VFW on Jan. 20.
With his family present, Byrne received his proclamation at the VFW’s Eagles Scout Court of Honor for building two information boards along the 9/11 Memorial Trail at Chestnut Branch Park as part of his Eagle Scout project.
“It was a distinct honor to present Brandon with a township proclamation recognizing his hard work and dedication,” said Zimmerman. “It’s certainly apparent that Brandon’s qualities exemplify that of a future leader.”
Zimmerman also noted that he sees a bright future in store for Byrne and considers him a “positive representation” of the Mantua community.
“Brandon has grown through Scouting, and it’s evident that his successes will carry over into adulthood and his professional life,” Zimmerman stated. “We congratulate and thank him for being a positive representation of our community.”
The rank of Eagle Scout is the highest in the Boys Scouts, and requirements to attain it include planning a community service project. Eagle Scout undertakings – according to the Scouts’ work book – enable a member to demonstrate leadership skills and set a good example by doing work that benefits others outside of Scouting.
Byrne’s project is among other Eagle Scout work that, according to Zimmerman, has resulted in additions and enhancements to Chestnut Branch Park.
“We’ve had several Scouts over the years do their Eagle Scout project at the park,” the mayor noted. “Each has uniquely enhanced our facility for parkgoers.”
Some of those projects have included bat houses, bird houses and handicapped-accessible tables.
Without a downtown in Mantua, Chestnut Branch Park is a major part of the towship and fills the role of an area where residents can gather. As this year progresses, residents can expect to see nine more holes added to the park’s Tornado Crossing disc golf course and an area to walk their dogs.
