Three Hillsborough High School seniors, excited for what lies ahead of them, were recently recognized by the township committee for their volunteerism and the Eagle Scouts projects that helped them attain the highest rank in Boy Scouts.
Standing before their friends, family and fellow Troop 489 scouts, Vishal Chalam, Daniel Duffek and Damien Filoramo were publicly honored by the governing body earlier this month. Each received special proclamations from Mayor Gloria McCauley for their Eagle Scout projects, which addressed varying needs throughout the township.
Deputy Mayor Doug Tomson said the three young men were “an example to the youth of Hillsborough Township through [their] high level leadership and community service” during the April 10 township committee meeting.
Chalam was recognized for completing his project, which consisted of repairing the driveway in front of the rectory at St. Joseph’s Church.
According to officials, the teen and a number of additional helpers extended the driveway by digging trenches, placing lumber within the trenches and using rebar, creating a raised and level walking surface. Once complete, the work assisted the elderly and allowed for easier entry and exit from the rectory.
As a member of Troop 489, Chalam was patrol leader, acting senior patrol leader and troop scribe. He participated in the Hillsborough High School Debate Club, Varsity Soccer Team, was a member of the National Honor Society and vice president of the Loudspeakers Club.
“I’d like to thank my parents and the rest of Troop 489. Hillsborough is a great grow up in and live in and I’m excited to go on to college,” Vishal said.
Duffek’s Eagle Scout project was the construction of a wheelchair-accessible picnic table, as well as the rehabilitation of an outdoor pavilion area at the Sunset Hill Club in Griggstown. Officials said the work included repairing and refinishing three other picnic tables and general cleanup.
The teen was patrol leader and historian for Troop 489. He also participated on the Hillsborough High School Varsity Volleyball team and will be attending Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University this fall to study aerospace engineering.
“It’s been a long journey. I’m glad I made it and I’m glad I didn’t quit – oh yeah – thanks mom and dad,” Duffek said with a smirk. “Hillsborough is a great town of great people and I’m happy to be here.”
Filoramo’s Eagle Scout project was to restore the inner courtyard and construct a sensory garden at Woods Road School. Officials said the newly minted Eagle Scout led a group of scouts in weeding, mulching and building a two-level raised bed. The garden was planted with rosemary, lambs ear, creeping oregano and sedum, all of which engage the senses of touch, smell and sight. The plants were also selected due to the fact that they are perennials, and as such, require minimal maintenance.
As a member of Troop 489, Filoramo served as a troop guide. He also participated on the Hillsborough High School Lacrosse and Cross Country teams and was a member of the Sources of Strength Club.
“[This proclamation] really means a lot. It’s kind of crazy to be standing here because it was a lot of work,” Filoramo said. “Thanks, mom and dad.”