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Teen builds gazebo at Norway Spring as Eagle Scout project

By TERRI CASTELAZ, Staff Writer 5 min read

NORWAY -- A 15-year-old Norway High School student has turned his Eagle Scout project into a lasting addition to one of Norway's best-known landmarks.

Damian DeBernardi recently completed construction of a gazebo at the Norway Spring along U.S. 2 as part of his journey toward Eagle Scout, the highest rank in Scouting. He is a member of Boy Scout Troop 510, based at Balsam Street Christian Church in Kingsford, and has been involved in Scouting for five years. Along with completing his merit badge requirements, he was selected by his peers to receive the Order of the Arrow, recognizing his membership in Scouting's honor society.

"The whole point of Eagle Scout is to give back to those who have helped you," DeBernardi said. "I've learned so much through Boy Scouts and this is my gift to my community."

Nationwide about 4% of Scouts reach Eagle Scout, which requires candidates to demonstrate leadership, earn at least 21 merit badges and complete a comprehensive community service project, including planning and fundraising. Scouts also must earn the rank before turning 18.

The NHS sophomore explained that initially he considered doing a project at the Strawberry Lake playground but learned from city officials plans were already in progress for that site. He then began looking for another opportunity and turned his attention to the Norway Spring, a popular community attraction.

"I started thinking about what I could do that would be a nice feature at the spring," he said. "I thought a gazebo would look pretty cool there, and it would be something people could use."

About six months ago, DeBernardi began researching designs and developing plans. He followed the Eagle Scout service project workbook to guide him through the planning process, gathering materials and organizing the work.

He presented his proposal to city officials and the Norway Downtown Development Authority, which helped him navigate permits and other requirements for the site.

Downtown Development Authority Coordinator Kenzie Williamsen said board members were excited when DeBernardi presented his idea.

"The new gazebo is very eye-catching as you drive into Norway. It makes the entrance of town more warm and inviting," Williamsen said. "I hope to see many people sitting there next summer."

DeBernardi said he wanted to create a comfortable, shaded space for residents and visitors to gather and enjoy for many years.

Fundraising for the project began in the spring. "The DDA recommended that I keep fundraising efforts within Norway so the project could be entirely locally supported," he said.

With finances secured, the concrete work was completed in July, and DeBernardi and his crew of helpers began building the 12-foot octagonal structure in early August.

The gazebo was constructed on site rather than assembled from a kit, he noted.

Cedar was chosen because of its suitability for outdoor use, while Trex material was used for the benches that wrap around five sides.

"We hit the ground running and got most of it up during the first week," DeBernardi said. "We finished the remaining work over the weekends."

Material shortages extended the project to about two months from start to finish.

DeBernardi initially considered staining the cedar, but ultimately decided to leave it natural, minimizing future maintenance for the city.

The design also incorporates accessibility features, with open space being left at both sides of the entrance to accommodate wheelchairs.

"Boy Scout projects focus on making sure everyone can use and enjoy them," DeBernardi said.

Williamsen said the DDA has already heard a lot positive feedback from residents.

Although the gazebo is complete for his Eagle Scout project requirements, DeBernardi has more work planned for the site. A plaque recognizing the project's Legacy contributors and donors has been ordered and will be installed after arrival.

Next spring, he hopes to create a more accessible path from the road to the gazebo. "The ground is currently uneven. We are considering using bricks or rocks to make it easier to navigate down the incline," DeBernardi said.

A decorative topper for the gazebo's cupola is another detail that will be added in the spring. "We're still trying to figure out what we want to put on top," he said.

Landscaping around the structure is also slated.

The experience also gave DeBernardi an opportunity to develop new construction skills. Although both of his parents work in construction, he said planning and building the gazebo taught him more than he expected.

Installing the shingles was one of the biggest learning experiences. "I never realized how much work goes into just shingling a roof," DeBernardi said.

He credited the donors and contributors who provided financial support, materials and other assistance throughout the project.

"This wouldn't have been possible without all of them," he said. "I'm grateful to everyone that supported the idea and helped make it happen."

Legacy contributors and donors to be recognized on the plaque at the gazebo include Brian and Tasha DeBernardi; Ron and Shirley DeBernardi; Phil and Lori Turri of Turri, Tax & Accounting; Barlow Heider of Heider Millwork and Lumber; the Norway Downtown Development Authority; Brock Johnson, city of Norway director of public works; Champion Concrete; Knight Owl Sports Bar & Grill; DeBakker Construction; Norway Springs Inc. Bottle Water & Home Filtration; Hall's Hardware Co.; Holmberg General Agency; John Lasater State Farm; Loadmaster Corporation; and Vulcan-Norway-Loretto Lions Club.

Additional acknowledgments go to Nickels Logging, Norway Garden Club, The Drug Store, Forslund Building Supply and Quintin Olson Enterprises Tree Service.

Williamsen said Scouts and other groups interested in taking on similar community projects are encouraged to contact the DDA.

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Terri Castelaz can be reached at 906-774-2772, ext. 85241, or tcastelaz@ironmountaindailynews.com.

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