NORTH SMITHFIELD – A scout with Troop 1139 Slatersville has earned the rank of Eagle, with a project that will benefit local kids attending summer camp for years to come.
Zachary Wetmore built a stage at Camp Phoenix, a town-based day facility serving kids entering kindergarten through 8th grade.
One of the largest summer camps in the state, the camp was established in 2006 through the North Smithfield Recreation Department in order to create a traditional, day-long summer camp experience for children who live in town. It has since expanded to include kids from many surrounding communities.
Performing arts are among the activities offered, with campers creating weekly dances, skits and songs, making the stage a valued contribution to the facility.
“It was greatly needed and enhanced the camp experience for both staff and attendees,” noted Troop 1139’s Eagle Court of Honor Coordinator Marybeth Sosa in a noted to members of the School Committee.
Wetmore graduated from North Smithfield High School last year and had already completed the project, but a ceremony celebrating the achievement was put on hold due to COVID-19.
Now, an honor ceremony has been scheduled at Wallum Lake Rod & Gun Club in Harrisville, to be held on Sunday, July 11.
School board members approved a commendation last week to be presented to Wetmore at the event.
Committee member Jean Meo noted that she’s the mother of two Eagle Scouts and the grandmother of one.
“I know what it takes to obtain this rank,” said Meo. “It’s a lot of hard work. I hope he is very proud of his accomplishments, because we certainly are proud of him as a community.”
“The rank of Eagle Scout is prestigious,” noted the commendation, signed by School Committee Chairman James Lombardi. “To earn this rank you have demonstrated leadership skills, community service and outdoor skills – just to name a few. It is encouraging to see a member of our student body and community undertake this endeavor and succeed.”
“You have demonstrated that you are a young man of character who will continue to contribute greatly to our society.”
