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Hockensmith completes Eagle Scout Project
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Neighbors | Adrienne Crissman.Jacob Hockensmith stood in the garden at Poland Union Elementary School that he completed for his Eagle Scout Project.
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Neighbors | Adrienne Crissman .Jacob Hockensmith (left) with his brother Philip , who helped with the construction of the garden at Poland Union Elementary.
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Neighbors | Adrienne Crissman .Jacob Hockensmith (center) stood with his Eagle Scout Project sponsors, from left, Scott Linhart, Town and Country Garden Center; Jerry Blasco, representative of the Mahoning Valley Landscape and Nursery Association; Shelli Duchek, representative of Poland Rotary and Michael Masucci, principal of Poland Union Elementary School, in the new garden at Poland Union. Not pictured is Kevin Elliot of Elliott's Garden Center.
By ADRIENNE CRISSMAN
Poland Union Elementary School received a gift of eight new raised garden beds.
The garden beds were part of Jacob Hockensmith’s Eagle Scout Project. Hockensmith, a Boy Scout in Troop No. 44, has been a part of the scouts since 2005, when he joined Cub Scouts in first grade.
Hockensmith had to take many steps to complete the project.
“[I had to] meet with the principal, Mr. Masucci; meet with Poland Rotary to help with funding; contact Mahoning Valley Landscaping and Nursery Association to help with funding; research materials and how to build the raised gardens; contact local nursery’s to get materials; contact troop members and families to help and organize workers,” said Hockensmith.
Hockensmith explained why he chose this project.
“I chose this project because I thought it would be a great opportunity to help the kids learn in an outdoor environment, and give them an opportunity to experience it first hand,” said Hockensmith.
Michael Masucci, principal at Union, said the gardens enhances the greenhouse area.
“In time, all students will benefit from the ’green space’ created and plant gardens of their own. With strong ties to the community and growing partnerships with local landscapers and gardeners, the area will quickly become another area to showcase our students’ work,” said Masucci.
Masucci said Jacob’s work impressed him beyond words.
“I think his efforts speak volumes about not only himself, but his family and the Boy Scouts,” said Masucci. “I am proud to have been a small part of his efforts and cannot thank him enough for what he has accomplished.”
Hockensmith is grateful for all of the support.
“I would like to thank Mahoning Valley Landscaping and Nursery Association and Poland Rotary for help with funding. Also, Town and Country Garden Center and Elliott’s Garden Center for the materials needed and donations,” said Hockensmith.