Spencerport resident awarded Eagle Scout rank

Richard Calabrese of Spencerport began scouting at the age of seven as a Tiger Cub in Pack #165. Through the years, he completed each rank in cub scouting and earned the highest award, the Arrow of Light. The he proceeded on through other ranks - Tenderfoot, Second Class, First Class, Star Scout and Life Scout. He was awarded the Eagle Scout rank last May.

During his scouting career, Rich held the leadership positions of Assistant Patrol Leader and Assistant Senior Patrol Leader. He earned 21 merit badges and completed his Eagle Project successfully. He has also earned the Ad Altare Dei religious award. He has attended many campouts over the years, including Massawepie Summer Camp.

A high achiever in academics and sports, he played soccer for Spencerport High for four years, as well as competed in track and golf. He served as team captain and has been the recipient of MIP, MVP and Scholar Athlete awards. Calabrese is a member of the National Honor Society and served on Student Council. Calabrese began working on a degree in Sports Information and Communications at Ithaca College this fall.

For his Eagle Project, Calabrese worked with Sr. Diane and Russell Tronolone to plan, organize and construct a new playground for the students of Hope Hall. He attended meetings, reviewed plans and organized volunteers to help construct and install the new playground equipment. The school's playground equipment was outdated and not suited for some of the students. The special needs of the students were considered in the new playground design. The 25 volunteers that insured the success of the project contributed 294 hours of hard work.