Eagle Scout Project is a “ringer” for Wilson Brewer Park

Carter Harms one step closer with completion of Eagle Scout project

Carter Harms, a senior at the Webster City High School, is one step closer to becoming an Eagle Scout after completing his community service project at the Wilson Brewer Park. The project which was completed this fall, is a set of horseshoe pits located near the Harmony Center school.

One requirement to become an Eagle Scout is to develop and deliver a community service project. Only 10% of the scouts ever attain the rank of Eagle, but one of those select few is Harms who worked with Ryan Rupiper, who is chairman of the Foundation responsible for the park facilities.

Eagle scout community service projects are carefully planned, according to Rich Stroner. Well-known for his work as past Commander, and now as Adjutant for American Legion Post 191, Stroner has volunteered for 35 years in scouting; over half of that with Webster City Troop 17.

Stroner explained the basic outline of the process all Eagle scout projects go through; "First, the scout presents a concept, then develops the required drawings and materials lists, gathers local people and organizations to help with the project, and estimates the project's cost."

Once Harms knew his project's cost, he and Assistant Scoutmaster Brian Burgess, "put on their uniforms and visited the local lumber yard," said Stroner. Harms explained, "Central Iowa Building Supply donated the metal posts, and Denny and Cathy Webb gave $100 in cash, and Mr. Stroner donated some of the lag screws to hold the lumber together."

Harms was especially grateful for the guidance Stroner gave during his project: "He oversees many activities of our troop. He's like a grandfather to all of us." Of Harms, Stroner said, "he's a conscientious young man who takes pride in his work."

After securing the lumber, sturdy 4×4" posts, Harms was faced with cutting them accurately. Stroner loaned his miter saw for the purpose. "We met on a Sunday morning for the cut. Carter instructed other troop members, to ensure it was done correctly," said Stroner. Harms added, "I was glad to have more hands, to make sure the cuts were square."

Another requirement for scouts aspiring to the rank of Eagle, is to earn 21 merit badges. Harms has 25 to his credit. While he found the ones dealing with first aid and swimming valuable, his hands-down favorite is the merit badge awarded for proficiency in chess. Harms began playing chess at age 9 and is a member of Chess Club at Webster City High School.

Rupiper, Chair of the Wilson Brewer Park Foundation Board, initiated the horseshoe pits project by contacting Troop 17. Bill Baldwin, Scoutmaster, recalls that "he talked to our Assistant Scoutmaster, Brian Burgess about the design."

Both Rupiper and Harms were familiar with the horseshoe pits at Kendall Young and Briggs Woods parks. Baldwin remembered local scouts built both.

"About 5-6 years ago, Cody Seiser built the pits at Kendall Young Park for his community service, followed a few years later by Landon Vaughn, who put in the pits at Briggs Woods," Baldwin said.

Rupiper had the new horseshoe pits placed next to Harmony Center School at Wilson Brewer Park. Locating them near the historic, 1914 restored country school, made sense to Rupiper, who said, "Horseshoes were played back then and were usually installed next to the town's school. Trees in that area supply wonderful shade for players in a historic setting."

Scoutmaster Baldwin is proud of his troop and scouts. Reflecting on Harms, he said, "He has a very calming attitude, and showed great patience in working with scouts of differing ages and skills." With the wide range of activities available to young people today, it's unusual to see scouts continue to their 18th birthday. Harms, Baldwin said, "is one of the exceptions. He found enjoyment every year and in every project in scouts."

There are still a few steps before Harms can become an Eagle Scout. According to Stroner, he has to have an Eagle Scout Board of Review, now that the community service project is completed.

“There will be questions about his scouting history, his project, and there is paperwork to complete,” said Stroner. “Typically something is scheduled for a ceremony later on, at either a scout awards ceremony or an Eagle Scout ceremony just for him.” Stroner said it may be several months before a final ceremony is scheduled.

Those interested in playing horseshoes at Wilson Brewer Park are invited to bring their own horseshoes, when the weather permits. The park is officially open from May 1-October 31.