Community

Eagle Scout Project Hatches Nesting Spot in Woodsdale

A Boy Scout's idea to improve an outside gathering spot in Woodsdale is nearly complete, and he soon could have both his Eagle Scout badge and a place to celebrate his achievement.

About a year ago, Nathan Weekley -- a member of Boy Scout Troop 6 in Wheeling -- looked out the windows of his home near the Poplar Avenue fire station and determined the nearby park was in need of more amenities.

After raising about $2,000 and organizing the efforts of local contractors, his Eagle Scout project is nearly complete.

A pavilion has been constructed at the park, and only needs a few more supports, soffit and fascia, he said. There is a grill at the shelter, and two dog waste stations also have been installed to accommodate the four-legged visitors who frequent the park.

The pavilion is usable now, and Weekley hope to soon put it to use themselves for a court of honor ceremony, when he would receive his Eagle Scout badge.

There are still a few more criteria to meet before that badge is awarded, he said. The project must be completely finished, and there will be more phone calls to make and paperwork to complete. Then the Boy Scouts Eagle Board of Review has to approve the project.

"I just wanted to help the community," Weekley said.

He will be an incoming sophomore this fall at Wheeling Park High School, and he hasn't yet decided where his future career path will lead.

Weekley does know he will remain in scouting. He can continue to participate in programs until he is 18, and after that he plans to become a scout leader.

He has already used the leadership skills he learned in scouting to make the pavilion a reality.

Weekley approached Ohio County commissioners with his idea for park improvements, and they awarded him with $1,000 in hotel/motel tax money. The funds were used to purchase the cement needed for the foundation of the pavilion, as well as the grill.

Woodsdale businesses also were asked for donations, and those contributing each received a thank you card, he said.

Weekley also approached the city of Wheeling and construction groups seeking help. Among them were the Northern Panhandle Homebuilders Association, Diamond One Construction, K and K Homebuilders, ABC Supply and 84 Lumber.

Wheeling Park High School built picnic tables for shelter. The city of Wheeling provided dirt, which was spread by Bridgeport Rentals. Members at the nearby Wheeling Fire Department watered the soil.

Weekley's father, Gary, said he thinks the Eagle Scout process might just be more stressful on the parent than it is the scout.

"You want to keep them in charge of the project without overstepping," he said. "You want to guide them.

"Most kids don't want to make phone calls, or keep things on schedule, so you have to show them the way," he said.

Those wanting to reserve the pavilion for events will be able to do so through the Wheeling Recreation Department at 304-234-3641.