Fineran Way Dedicated in Millburn

After many months of determined effort by the scouts and leadership of Troop 17, on Sunday, May 20, Fineran Way was at last unveiled and dedicated in Millburn. For details about the long road that got us here, and the many challenges we faced in securing the cooperation of the Township, please read this article by Mr. Cannon.

The morning began with a special Scout Sunday Mass dedicated to Mr. Fineran's memory, with several scouts filling ceremonial and operational roles. The dedication ceremony itself took place at the newly christened Fineran Way (formerly Canoe Brook Road) and the service road leading to JFK Parkway, at the corner of the Mall at Short Hills. Hundreds of scouts and scouters, family members, and dignitaries attended, including several Fineran Eagles going back many years. Eagle Scout Stephen Kulp, on the bugle, and Patrol Leader Nick Starace, on the saxophone, provided musical accompaniment as attendees saluted the flag. Jamie Serruto, Brian Carridi, Troop Committee Chairman Jim McKenna, and Scoutmaster Dan Cannon all delivered remarks from the podium, sharing special memories of our departed Scoutmaster.

Assistant SPL Ryan Cannon, who recently earned the rank of Eagle, also spoke at the podium. He remarked that if he could add a 13th point to the Scout Law, he would include "A scout is thankful." He expressed his thankfulness at having known Mr. Fineran and having benefited from his influence. Other memorable remarks were given by Eagle Scout Charles Fineran, Mr. Fineran's older brother, who spoke of his family's pride and admiration of Troop 17's efforts to make the memorial a reality. Millburn Mayor Cheryl Burstein also spoke, and praised the Troop's hard work and determination. She remarked that although she hadn't known Ken Fineran personally, she knew from this outpouring of support what a devoted leader he must have been.

Participants at the ceremony had an opportunity to purchase a special commemorative patch designed by Troop Historian Kevin Middleton, featuring depictions of Mr. Fineran and the new sign as an eagle soars in the background. Proceeds will benefit Troop 17. A special silver-border version of the patch, limited to 89 copies, was also produced. These are initially reserved for purchase by the 89 Fineran Eagles, but any that go unsold will also be made available for purchase. The patches can be ordered here on the Troop website.

After the ceremony, troop members and their families met at the nearby American Legion Hall, which was recently revitalized as part of Ryan Cannon's Eagle Scout project, for a family picnic. The afternoon's festivities included a silent auction. Patches from Mr. Fineran's extensive collection, generously donated by Marie Fineran, were auctioned off in support of Troop 17 and the Northern New Jersey Council. Another highlight was a beautiful memorial video, produced by Jeanine Launay and Zach Hrinuk, featuring pictures of Mr. Fineran and Troop 17 from throughout the decades.

All in all, it was a memorable and special day that will hold an important place in the long history of Troop 17. Many thanks to the countless scouts, adult leaders, and volunteers who made this historic occasion possible. There are too many to name, but we especially want to acknowledge Nick Woros, Father Chris, Natalie Levine, Tiffany Fehrenbach, and Commander Robert Brown of the American Legion.

A video of the dedication can be viewed here.