Chris Scully often goes to John J. Walker Memorial Park in Hicksville to play lacrosse, and one day he noticed that something was missing.
“I noticed that there was no place for families to sit to spend time together or eat dinner at football and lacrosse games,” he says.
Scully decided to meet the community’s need for tables at Walker and Borella Park in Plainview as part of his Eagle Scout project, which requires a boy scout to complete a community service project. The Hicksville High School student has been a part of the boy scouts since first grade and is a part of local troop 291.
Planning for the project began back in May and several fundraisers were conducted which funded the entire project, which cost a little over $1,400. Scully, with help from his family, friends and fellow troop members, were able to build six picnic tables for the two parks in two weekends. On the second day of building, the troop received a special surprise visit from Nassau County Legislator Rose Walker, whose late husband is the namesake of the park.
“Both of these fields are used everyday by many youth and adult groups, as well as families. The addition of these beautiful tables to the parks will enhance the pleasure of all who utilize the fields and playgrounds,” said Walker. “I cannot thank him enough. His project literally brought tears to my eyes.”
Scully said one of the most rewarding parts of the project was seeing it go to immediate use. He says as soon as they delivered the tables, he saw someone sit down on the bench to tie their shoes.
“It made me feel good to see it being used, and it was a big relief to get it completed,” he said.
