Masonic Award Presented To Eagle Scout Recipient

The Connecticut Masonic Scouting Association recently presented Eagle Scout recipient Shane E. Price with its Certificate of Commendation and a Letter of Congratulations. The presentation took place at Hiram Lodge, No. 18 in Sandy Hook. Shane’s formal Eagle Court of Honor was recently held at B’Nai Israel Synagogue in Southbury.

Brother Steven J. Elzholz of Cosmopolitan Lodge, No. 125 in New Haven and Brother Thomas M. Maxwell II of Hiram Lodge, No. 18 in Newtown made the presentations. Shane’s family and many supporters were present for the ceremony. All Scouts and adult leaders are members of Connecticut Yankee Council, Boy Scouts of America located in Milford.

Shane’s Eagle Scout Project required the assistance of approximately 30 of his fellow scouts and adult scout leaders. The project location was on the Holcombe Preserve Memorial Trail of the Newtown Forest Association and involved the design and construction of two bridges, 16 and 8 feet in length. In addition to the bridges, Shane’s work crew cleared debris and fallen trees that had obstructed the walking trail and constructed wildlife shelters.

Shane’s project required extensive material, and his project received donations from Ring’s End of Bethel and D’Addario Sand and Gravel of Sandy Hook. Shane’s project could not have been constructed without their support.

Shane is a member of Troop 370 in Sandy Hook and is a member of the Class of 2009 of Newtown High School. He will be entering the freshman class at the Florida Institute of Technology in the fall and plans to pursue a bachelor’s degree in aerospace engineering.

Shane said during a recent interview that his project began in June 2008 and he received the scouting award roughly a year later.

“It was a lot of work,” said Shane, “but I definitely learned from the experience.”

Shane said he loves camping and hiking, and to complete his project he got in contact with the Newtown Forrest Association.

In the congratulatory letter that was given to Shane and read during the ceremony, Mr Maxwell wrote, “Shane, on behalf of the Masonic Scouting Association, we extend hardy congratulations to you on achieving the rank of Eagle Scout. Only two scouts in one hundred earn this distinguished honor and I know that your troop, family and friends are exceedingly proud of you.

“Scouting and Freemasonry share many common values that encourage strong character, patriotism, citizenship, community service and duty to God. During this journey of achievement you have mastered many life skills that have greatly enriched your life while serving others. As an Eagle Scout, the discipline, knowledge and experience that you have attained will prove invaluable as you progress through life and make noteworthy contributions to your family, community and nation. As a Scout, you have exemplified our Masonic values at home, in your school and community, and for this we are eternally grateful.”