By Thomas Montana
Suffolk County Sheriff Errol D. Toulon, Jr. presented the Community Leadership Award to Helaina Danetta Rivers, Henri Daniel Lispare Rivers IV, and Henniyah Danella Rivers, a set of triplets. They were awarded for being the first triplets in New York and the first Black triplets in the country to earn the rank of Eagle Scout.
The rank of Eagle Scout is the highest Scout rank that can be achieved. It requires participation in a multi-year badge program and creating a service project that benefits their community. As for the Harrises, the three worked together to enhance Brightwaters Village Hall. Helaina replaced a run down wooden flagpole, Henri arranged permanent benches and Henniyah designed paving stones around the new flagpole while placing plant boxes to enhance the area’s look.
Brightwaters Village Mayor John Valdini, Trustee Bill Pitta, DPW Foreman Mike Gralton and volunteer Charlie Hayward—who assisted with the concrete, were present for the award presentation.