Eagle Scout adds path for garden at Hospice

Photo by Tom Rivers

ALBION – The lush plants, benches and birds are a peaceful attraction at the Martin-Linsin Residence, which serves terminally ill patients at 14080 Route 31 West.

The garden by the residence for Hospice of Orleans is now more accessible for residents and their families after a Boy Scout added a crusher-run path for his Eagle Scout project.

Randy Eblacker worked on the project last August through October. It is seeing lots of use now that the warm weather months have arrived.

Eblacker is in a Boy Scout troop in Albion where Dr. Tom Madejski has been a long-time volunteer. Eblacker was looking for an Eagle Scout project in the community, and Madejski suggested the project at Hospice.

“The sidewalk will let residents in wheelchairs go out and enjoy the really nice garden that they have,” Eblacker said.

Eblacker, a junior at Albion, said he has enjoyed his time in Scouts, attending camp-outs and learning skills, especially CPR and life-guarding.

The key to becoming an Eagle Scout is persistence, Eblacker said.

“It’s sticking with Scouting,” he said. “It’s a lot of merit badges. It’s a lot of work.”

It’s also a lot of fun. He has enjoyed the many trips with Scouts, especially a journey to Gettysburg.

Eblacker plans to help the troop next year as a junior assistant scoutmaster. He also plays varsity baseball and is a member of the National Honor Society.

“I definitely wouldn’t be the person I am today without Scouts,” Eblacker said. “There are a lot of opportunities in Scouts and it’s it made me active in my community.”