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Ian William Ballenger of Scout Troop 510, South Park, was recognized for attaining the rank of Eagle Scout in a Court of Honor ceremony held back on February 15, at Windover Hills United Methodist Church.

Pictured (L to R) - Bob Northcott, Todd Ballenger, Ian Ballenger, Kari Ballenger, Ian's sister and Russ Spicuzza.

The final hurdle in the quest for this highest Rank for Boy Scouting is a community service challenge, titled “Eagle Project”. The candidate for Eagle must be in charge of all aspects of the project. The tasks include but are not limited to; planning, financing, implementation, completion and final presentation of the completed project to a committee of Boy Scout leaders.

Ian’s Eagle project benefitted the Oliver Miller Homestead, a preserved 18th century homestead that marks the spot where the Whiskey Rebellion began. The group needed a new admission booth matching the design and character of the rest of this historic area. Ian designed, sketched, and planned the new building. He then obtained formal blueprints for the project, raised funds and lead work crews in clearing the final site, erecting the structure, painting and roofing the new building.

Ian received many letters of recognition from national, state and local dignitaries. Russ Spicuzza, Elk Scouting Representative, (accompanied by Elk Bob Northcott), of South Hills B.P.O.E. Lodge 2213 in Bethel Park gave a short congratulatory talk and presented the new Eagle Scout with two framed Certificates of Merit, one each from the Local and National Elks Lodge (Chicago). Spicuzza read the personal letter from Robert L. Duitsman, Grand Exalted Ruler, congratulating Bradley and Jess on this accomplishment. He also presented Ian with a personal sized American flag and a small gold lapel pin, which represents 80+ years of the relationship between the Elks and Scouting.

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