In my last column I wrote about how much I enjoy the ribbon-cuttings and business openings that I perform as part of my duty as mayor. This past Saturday I attended an event that, without a doubt, is one of my most enjoyable. The Eagle Court of Honor is the ceremony where a Scout gets awarded the highest honor, the Eagle rank. The traditional ceremony takes place following the same program for each Scout. As I stood taking my Eagle Scout oath, I could not help but notice that I was one of only a few in the room who had obtained this high honor. While it was many years ago that I had received it, I still felt the pride. The importance of the ceremony is marked by the list of dignitaries that attend. Assemblyman Joseph Saladino, Oyster Bay Town Supervisor John Venditto, Town Clerk Steve Labriola, Councilman Anthony Macagnone, Joseph Muscarella, Councilwoman Rose Walker, Representatives from: Senator Kemp Hannon, Assemblyman James Conte, Congressman Peter King, Nassau County 8th Precinct Commander Mike Cronin as well as Family Court Judge Richard Lawrence all presented proclamations. Their speeches all had a common thread, what a great privilege it is to reward a young man for obtaining this high honor. They all acknowledged his hard work, dedication and devotion to his family, Scout troop and community. This ceremony was also very special to me. The honoree, John Ninivaggi, chose the restoration of the north gazebo (located at the corner of Melville Road and Main Street) as his Eagle Scout Project. The result of the project was a beautifully restored gazebo, replanted gardens, clean walkways and refurbished benches. Our northern gateway to the village never looked so good. Attending with me was Department of Public Works Superintendent Fred Zamparelle. Fred worked very closely with John and assisted him in the project. Upon accepting his award, John made a point of thanking Fred for his assistance. I was very proud that Fred and the village helped John achieve his quest. Over the past three years I have worked diligently with the trustees to deliver good government to our residents. Good government means more than just being good stewards of the people's money, it means more than just improving the economic climate. It means improving the quality of life of individual residents, especially our youth. The entire board takes great pleasure in affording the Scouts of our community the opportunity to fulfill their dreams of becoming an Eagle Scout. John's efforts in coordinating the repair and cleanup of the area not only helped beautify his community but also gave him valuable leadership skills that will greatly benefit him as an adult. To all the future Eagle Scouts, we are here to help you, too. Fred is just a phone call away. The opportunity is also there for the Girls Scouts and any other community groups that want to make a difference in our town. I would like to see these projects become a genuine coming together of the community -Scouts, residents and businesses working together to better our village. I hope that others will follow in John's footsteps and also make a difference. Any business or entrepreneur that would like to participate in these worthwhile projects can contact Village Hall at 249-0093.