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caption:
Shed installed
Youth Program Director Heather Logee with Hollis Smith after the dedication plaque is installed on the new zip line equipment shed. Courtesy photo.
Scout builds
zip line shed
POMFRET — Prospective Eagle Scout Hollis Smith recently completed his Eagle Scout project at the Windham County Outdoor Center. He designed and constructed an equipment shed to provide a dry, secure space to store zip line harness equipment at the landing site area on Second Pond. This eliminates the need for staff to transport the equipment up to the zip line area every day and keeps things “zipping” along that much faster.
Hollis is 17 years old and lives with his parents and his two younger brothers and a younger sister in Killingly. He is a senior at Killingly High School and plans to attend UConn next year to study mechanical engineering. He started his scouting experience as a cub scout in first grade. Hollis has come full circle in his scouting career, learning basic scouting skills as he earned his merit badges, but has reached the point where he is now teaching those skills to younger scouts. He is a member of Troop 25, led by Michael Dicolella. Hollis says that his scouting experience has also given him training in how to work with others, which he expects will serve him well in college and in his future career.
On the dedication plaque installed on the new shed, Hollis recognizes those who helped support his project with time, materials or money. Those recognized include the Colonial Baptist Church, Boy Scout Troop 25, Oneonta Fisheries, Mr. and Mrs. Philip Stedman, and Mrs. Helen Smith. Hollis’ grandfather, Philip Stedman, worked alongside his grandson throughout the construction; an opportunity to spend time together that they both enjoyed.
The 400 foot zip line is used by summer campers, aged 10 and older, at the Windham Tolland 4-H Camp during the regular camp season. It is also available on contract to participants of the Ragged Hill Woods Outdoor Center programs.