Since 1992
Print and digital marketing
SKOWHEGAN — Michael Connolly of Boy Scout Troops 485 in Skowhegan and 428 in Pittsfield has completed his Eagle Scout Project, establishing a wheelchair accessible fishing location at Lake George Regional Park. The path to the fishing platform dock was built up to ADA accessibility guidelines. Michael began his project in May 2019, but along the way he encountered many obstacles related to zoning, regulations and permitting because his project is established on the water and at a public location.
Michael met every challenge along the way with the assistance of many kind and skilled people. Mike Davis, a detailer at Cianbro, helped with the blueprints and re-design blueprints. Steve St. Pierre of Hammond Lumber in Skowhegan helped him problem solve the design changes and materials; and Joe Poulin and Brian Beaulieu helped him with providing for engineer review and approval. Just when Michael thought he was in the clear, COVID – 19 hit.
Fundraising became almost impossible. Michael dug in and became more determined than ever. He resorted to appealing to area businesses for monetary donations and materials knowing that they were also likely experiencing difficulties. Skowhegan Savings Bank interviewed him and gave him a matching grant up to $2,000. Hammond Lumber, Cianbro and Kleinschmidt pledged sizable donations.
Michael also conducted two car washes with the assistance of his troops members. Philip Mattingly of Mattingly Products Co. in North Anson also interviewed Michael and then donated all the necessary gravel and grounds materials. Alpine Consulting and Metal Works, Home Depot in Waterville, Canaan Superette, Maine Fire Equipment Co of Skowhegan, Advanced Auto Parts in Skowhegan and Hunter Insurance of Rhode Island helped make it all happen this fall.
On Saturday, Nov. 7, the project was complete and Michael was able to present it to park resource manager. Justin Spencer. Unfortunately, given the delays due to COVID, the dock will need to be winterized very soon. Michael is planning a “grand re-opening event” as soon as possible in the spring. He hopes people tell their family and friends, who would benefit from the dock, that it will be available for their fishing enjoyment!
