Boy Scout’s ‘undercover’ project: pavilion in Canton’s Taylor Park

By PAUL MITCHELL
JOHNSON NEWSPAPERS

MONDAY, JULY 9, 2012

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CANTON — For years, Boy Scout Jonathan T. Pinckney of Canton Troop 27 had a vision that Taylor Park needed a facility where family and friends could gather to enjoy a beachside day.

In June, his dream became a reality via an Eagle Scout project that produced a 24-by-30-foot pavilion that quickly has become a popular summer spot.

“I’m pleased with the outcome. It was a lot of work, but it’s worth it,” said Mr. Pinckney, 17, a senior at Hugh C. Williams High School. “I’m very happy people are using it. That’s the purpose and that’s why I wanted to build it.”

Exploring his Eagle Scout options, Mr. Pinckney said, his focus was on doing something that would benefit the whole community.

The Canton Recreation Department, which oversees Taylor Park, is accepting requests to reserve the pavilion area on a first-come, first-served basis.

Since its completion, the pavilion has hosted birthday parties, visits from Canton area nonprofit agencies and family gatherings. The village plans to provide electrical service to the pavilion.

Mr. Pinckney said 303 hours of volunteer work went into the pavilion’s construction. Forty-plus volunteers and numerous donations from area businesses and civic organizations allowed him to move a step closer to attaining Eagle Scout status.

“I would like to say that this project would not have been possible without the support of the community and all the volunteers that helped and donated their time. It took a lot of work and planning, but it was well worth it for a great community like Canton, New York,” Mr. Pinckney said.

Mr. Pinckney sought and received donations from individuals, civic groups and businesses to pay for the $5,000 project.

“It took a team effort and I thank everyone who contributed to the successful completion of this project,” he said.