John Borton, age 16, is a Life Scout in Boy Scout Troop 44 working to become an Eagle Scout. Last summer he began the process of transforming renovation ideas into a detailed landscaping project plan for First United Methodist Church. Over time, many of the bushes around the church's preschool playground had been lost. The decorative Belgian blocks along the border had sunk into the soil. John created a plan to raise the Belgian blocks and secure them in a stone and concrete base. He also proposed acquisition of numerous new plants, mulch, a watering system, and a bird bath. The proposal was presented and approved by the church property committee, the troop leadership, and Boy Scout Council.
Early in the implementation phase a challenge arose with a mark-out showing an unexpected underground utility in the work area. The plan was adjusted with a workaround. The project proceeded with assistance from scouts, family and friends. Taylor Rental donated use of a power tool and mulch was donated by Leonberg Nursery. 20 large Amelia bushes, as well as several butterfly bushes and bee balm bushes were provided with generous assistance from Flagg's Garden Center.
The road to Eagle began in first grade with Cub Scout Pack 44. Over time, Borton earned 30+ Boy Scout merit badges and assumed positions of leadership and responsibility. The goal of an Eagle Scout project is to learn project management and demonstrate leadership skills. Once the project is completed a final report is submitted by the Scout and a Board of Review must be passed
