Masons Lend a Hand to Eagle Scout's Flagpole Project

From left, Stephen M. Loshnowsky  Mark E. Loshnowsky  Dennis F. Shaffer  Nathan Fuerman and James R. Loshnowsky

Eagle Scout candidate Nathan Fuerman is getting closer and closer to his goal of erecting a set of flag poles in Riverfront Park.

Most recently he received help in the form of a $500 check from the local Masons organization, Stichter Lodge 254 F&M on North Franklin Street.

A Life Scout with Troop 129, out of Emmanuel Lutheran Church, young Mr. Fuerman has solicited funding from a variety of organizations, including, last month, Pottstown Borough Council.

Although council declined to devote any tax money toward his request, Council President Stephen Toroney did opine that most council members would likely provide some donations from their personal finances.

The project calls for erecting three flagpoles and a "complimentary stone garden" in Riverfront Park, a borough park which currently lacks an American flag.

Some of you may recall reading about Nathan's efforts in a March 22, article in The Mercury and at the time, he estimated the cost of materials and installation at $12,000 -- not counting the volunteer labor his fellow scouts will provide.

Here is the video we shot at the time:

Fuerman has designed the project to have a 12-foot diameter and to include a “complementary stone bed” around the three poles that is about 18 inches high. 

He has also planned out the project to the point where he has listed materials and supplies needed, outlined the permits that must be obtained and planned eight phases for the project.

Donations can be made in his name to the Pottstown Parks and Recreation Foundation, P.O. Box 1404, Pottstown, PA 19464.