Matthew Adkins is joined by his family, friends and city officials to cut the ribbon and officially open a picnic pavilion at Willow Springs Park last week. Adkins raised money and provided labor to make the project a reality. PHOTO BY DAVE ONGIE
Matthew Adkins, an Eagle Scout with Troop 237 and a recent Science Hill High School graduate, decided last spring he wanted to build a picnic pavilion at Willow Springs Park, where he spent much of his formative youth.
Adkins – along with City officials, Johnson City Parks and Recreation Advisory Board members, scouts and others – celebrated the completion of the 20-by-20 amenity with a ribbon cutting last Wednesday.
“I’d like to thank City Manager Pete Peterson and Parks and Recreation Director James Ellis for the opportunity,” Adkins said. “I also want to thank Parks and Recreation employee Rich Marosites for his guidance and help with construction.”
After sifting through several suggestions from City Manager Pete Peterson about projects that would help the city, the 18-year-old hit on the idea. Adkins and seven members of his troop began construction about eight months ago. Others helped, including family, friends and city employees.
The project cost $3,300, with Adkins receiving $2,100 in donations.
Matthew Adkins decided to build a pavilion at Willow Springs because he enjoyed spending time in the park as a kid and wanted to give back to the community. CONTRIBUTED
