James Maestri earns Eagle Scout status
Millbook High School senior James Maestri has achieved the rank of Eagle Scout, capping off a career in Scouting that began when he was in first grade. Photo submitted

James Maestri earns Eagle Scout status

MILLBROOK — James Maestri, who recently earned an Eagle Scout badge, has always loved the Scouts, having joined when he was in first grade. “Boy Scouts has given me the opportunity to explore nature, learn a variety of subjects while completing merit badges and allowed me to meet new people. I would recommend Scouts to all young kids,” he said.

In this time of COVID-19, many things have become more difficult, if not impossible, to achieve. But James is a senior at Millbrook High School and will be going to college next fall, so this was do or die, he said. With the help of Mike Herzog, a Scout Leader and a Trustee on the Millbrook Village Board, James said he found the perfect Eagle Scout project, and he worked hard to achieve his goal. To achieve Eagle Scout status, one must complete a community project.

Much to the pleasure of the entire staff at Village Hall, James built shelves to store files that had previously been stored on the floor. According to everyone at Village Hall, he did so with just a little help from his friends, and he did a terrific job.  

James, the son of a very proud mom, Ann Scaglione, has two older siblings: a brother, Robbie, and a sister, Isabella. He moved from Rockland County to Millbrook in 2014, when he was in sixth grade, and he said it was a difficult time to make such a drastic change. But he had been in the Scouts since first grade, and immediately joined the local group, which made the transition a little easier. 

In particular, he loved summer camp, and camping in general, he said. He has all the merit badges to show for his fondness for camping and his dedication to Scouting.

James worked on his shelving project every Wednesday since October 2020, and the excellent outcome is proof of his diligence. He mentioned he is grateful to Herzog, and also to Dawn and Brett Blackburn for their help, especially for their assistance with administrative papers.

Herzog was happy to give James praise.

“Much is expected from any individual who achieves the rank of Eagle Scout,” said Herzog. “I’m confident that James will meet that responsibility with the enthusiasm and good nature he has always shown in Troop 32.”

James’ family is planning some sort of celebration this spring, when they’ll also be celebrating his high school graduation. They praised the parade held by the village last year when COVID made graduation celebrations impossible; decisions are still being made on how the school will celebrate in 2021, right around the corner.   

James is looking forward to moving ahead with his education, but is still deciding exactly what he wants to do. Something in business, he thinks; he particularly likes the possibility of a career in real estate, but said he isn’t sure what path he’ll take.

The newly minted Eagle Scout is a hard worker, and has worked at Marona’s Market in the village for the past three years, something he has thoroughly enjoyed.

He also loves hiking, and being outdoors in general. His family has two shepherd dogs and three chickens. There were more chickens, but hungry foxes have depleted his little flock. 

Other things he likes include Legos and board games, and he said he loved being part of the drama club at school.

One things is certain: Whatever James decides to do, his strong work ethic and many skills will support him. As will his character and determination, just as they helped him achieve the Scouts’ highest honor of Eagle Scout.

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