Flag pole now graces Makinson Island

The newest St. Cloud Eagle Scout, Jack Olson, of Boy Scout Troop 298 officially completed his Eagle Scout project thanks to the help of twenty-seven neighbors and supporters.  Boy Scout Troop 298 was chartered by the VFW Post 3227 in downtown St. Cloud.

To complete his project, Jack designed and supervised the construction of an impressive flag pole that was erected on Makinson Island, located in Lake Tohopekaliga, in Kissimmee.  He received approval for the project from the Osceola County Parks and Recreation Department and he also received a donation from the department.

The flag pole was constructed using 3,420 pounds of concrete, 150 pounds of flagstone, 30 feet of 3-inch stainless steel pipe and 40 feet of 3-inch galvanized steel pipe.  The flag pole is topped with a brass eagle.  In all, Jack spent 53 hours planning and completing the project with a total 299 hours to dig the hole, mix the concrete and assemble the flag pole. 

Olson started his Boy Scouts of America career as a Tiger Cub and moved up through the ranks.   With the completion of his project, Jack has achieved the highest rank, Eagle Scout.

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By Pam Philpott, Staff Writer

Owning a pet brings joy to many people in a variety of ways. But, in addition to being your loyal companion and best friend, your pet can bring some unexpected benefits to your health. Research studies have shown that, among the list of advantages, owning a dog or cat reduces loneliness, stress and the risk of heart disease.