About a year ago, Ayden Kobryn, of Troop 208, Huntingdon Valley came to Cranaleith, asking if he could do his Eagle Scout Project here. Of course, Fred Trainer, our volunteer coordinator for Scout projects, welcomed him with open arms, because we always have opportunities for someone to help us out!
One idea that caught his interest was to build a structure to showcase the Memorial Plaques for the Thuja trees that were planted back in 2012. People donated for “their” memorial tree and a plaque was placed in front of it. But as the trees grew and prospered, the plaque was hidden and sometimes damaged by the lawnmower.
So much went into the preparation of this project – Ayden wore many hats: architect, engineer and fundraiser (for the cost of materials). After months of planning with Fred, his parents and troop members, it all came to fruition on Sunday, June 22, when Ayden arrived on site with 31 of his troop members, family and friends. The parts of the structure were made ahead of time in his backyard and then transported to Cranaleith. The day proved to be challenging weather wise – high temps in the 90’s, saturating humidity and rain showers, but that did not stop the fearless members of Troop 208. Ayden mentioned that he dreamed that the day would resemble that of an Amish Barn raising – everyone helping to build the parts and then raising it up. His dream was a reality along with his mom and aunts providing the food!
Cranaleith is so grateful to Ayden and Troop 208 for their dedicated and hard work in completing this outstanding Eagle Scout Project.
