Anglers visiting Recharge Lake in York have a new seating option at a prime location for casting a rod, thanks to the efforts of York High School senior Xavier Paris. For his Eagle Scout project, Xavier installed a custom memorial bench that honors his grandfather, Tom Paris, placed in the elder Paris’s favorite fishing spot on the east side of the lake at Bruce L. Anderson Recreation Area. 

Xavier initially dreamed of installing both a bench and a kayak launch, as kayaking is another activity he enjoyed with his grandfather, but fundraising was a challenge. In the end, he settled on the high-quality metal bench, which should last as a tribute to his grandfather and a community enhancement for many years to come.

Xavier has been part of Scouts since the third grade and has been working toward the goal of Eagle Scout for about 10 years. He has enjoyed scouting, especially the camping trips in Wyoming, Colorado, and Canada. It hasn’t all been easy though, as to earn Eagle Scout status he completed extra classes, badges, projects, and paperwork.

He didn’t achieve this goal alone. Xavier wanted to recognize the efforts of his Scout Master, Clint Turnbull, and his father, Matthew Paris, who have guided him through the Eagle Scout process. Other troop members also helped with the bench installation, including Danny Burgess, Logan Hindal, Lyle Eschenweck, and Paul Dale. Ike Colburn assisted with the installation as well. 

After graduation in May 2026, Xavier plans to attend college to study music education and performing arts. 

"The Upper Big Blue Natural Resources District is grateful for Xavier's efforts to improve the rec area and we wish him well in his future endeavors," said Jack Wergin, NRD project department manager. Other scouts interested in similar service projects can contact Wergin at jwergin@upperbigblue.org.