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From the Director
July-September 2010
THANK YOU, MIKE DUNN!
Michael Henry Dunn - Mike - came to me in early 2009 because he was interested in doing a project for the Bethel Public Library in order to earn his Eagle Scout Award. And I had the perfect one in mind!
The Library had been looking for a way to resume recycling once we moved into the new building. We needed something built to put a recycling bin so the truck could back up straight to it in order to empty it. When I explained our need to Mike, he was eager to get started. It was just the type of project he needed in order to complete the requirements for Eagle Scout.
During the spring and summer, Mike submitted and presented his written proposal, along with diagrams of his plans, to the Library Board for approval. He met with officials from Planning and Zoning and the Building Department for their permissions and the necessary permits. Mike also solicited local businesses for donations of the materials he would need to build the enclosure.
With help from family, friends, neighbors and other scouts, work began in early July, with Mike as project manager. The hill where the platform would be located was excavated, a concrete platform was laid, and a stone block retaining wall was installed around three sides. Finally, Mike reseeded the bank with grass, repaired the parking lot curb, and took away any stones and debris. A few months later, the Library began to have weekly recycling pickups.
Mike Dunn received his Eagle Award on October 19, 2009, and was recognized for this achievement on June 5, 2010 during an Eagle Scout Court of Honor recognition ceremony. During his many years as a scout, Mike earned 33 merit badges, camped 135 nights, hiked 119 miles, biked 884 miles and gave 184 hours of service to the community. He has received many awards including the World Conservation Award and the 50-Miler Award – twice!
In addition, Mike has held several leadership positions including Junior Assistant Scoutmaster, Assistant Senior Patrol Leader, Troop Guide and Quartermaster. Currently he serves as Co-Chair of the Progressive Student Coalition on the University of Nebraska-Lincoln Sandoz Residence Hall Executive Board, where he started his post high school education in the Fall 2009. His personal interests include reading, writing community organizing and sustainability.
Congratulations, Mike, on so many achievements already in your young life! And thank you for making it possible for the Library to recycle all of its discarded paper products. I'm sure everyone at the Library, and those who read this column, will join me in wishing you the best for a bright future as you continue on your life's journey.
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