WILDWOOD – Lt. Gov. Kim Guadagno attended the 2016 Distinguished Citizens Reception at Wildwoods Convention Center hosted by the Garden State Council Boy Scouts of America.
Guadagno joined several hundred scouting supporters to honor Avalon Mayor Martin Pagliughi and Lynda, his wife, and James Bennett of Sea Isle City.
One of the evening’s highlights was when Eagle Scout Forest Wan of Troop 76, Sea Isle City, explained scouting’s influence on his life. He recalled a friend who was killed in an airplane crash, who often shared his wish to become an Eagle Scout. That was the guiding force in his decision to strive toward that goal, Wan said.
Wan has yet to decide which college to attend in the fall. He hopes to become a military officer, and aspires to someday be president.
Eagle Scout Eddie Silva, who attained the rank while in Troop 79, Seaville, is a father and graduate of Richard Stockton University. He told of the importance he placed on Boy Scouts for helping him.
Further, Silva looks forward to the time when his young son can enter scouts. Silva also produced the program book given to each attendee.
Bishop Charles Farrow of Bethel Commandment Church, Whitesboro, scoutmaster of Troop 104, delivered the Invocation and Benediction.
Farrow led a moment of silence for deceased Scoutmaster Jim English of Troop 76, and George Neidig, Southern New Jersey Council Executive Board member.
Troop 76’s leader Mike Jargowsky recognized all Eagle Scouts in the room along with their parents. The troop, along with Park 76, provided members of the color guard who also assisted with award presentations.
Pack 76 Cub Scouts Jayden Connolly and Wyatt Hager helped with the awards and got to shake hands with Guadagno. They were not flustered being on stage before many onlookers or by meeting the state’s lieutenant governor.
First District legislators Sen. Jeff Van Drew, Assemblyman Robert Andrzejczak and Assemblyman Bruce Land joined to present meritorious resolutions to Bennett and the Pagliughis.
Freeholder Director Gerald Thornton and Freeholder E. Marie Hayes joined by Vice-Director Leonard Desiderio and Freeholder Will Morey to present the honorees with resolutions acclaiming their work for scouting.
Scouting Chair Nancy Cleaver of Crest Savings Bank recognized sponsors of the youth organization.
John Lynch of Wildwoods Convention Center was master of ceremonies.
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