Persistence and patience

Michael Cline learned an important lesson during his Eagle Scout project: Even when you plan for everything, there will always be unexpected situations that arise.

When Cline set out to repair and replace the flags and poles that line Fourth Avenue in downtown Camas, winter weather became his foe.

“We had snow, ice and freezing rain,” Cline, a Camas High School sophomore, said. “There were always obstacles.”

With the help of family, friends and fellow members of Boy Scout Troop 562, the flagpoles have been restored, 160 volunteer hours later.

The poles belong to the VFW Post 4278 of Camas/Washougal, and flags are placed there during certain holidays.

“I am really glad I had the opportunity to work on a project that positively impacted a local organization,” Cline said.

“And being in Scouts has given me an opportunity to make so many friends and given me the skills I need to grow.”

Lutz Hardware, the city of Camas, Washougal Lumber, Keys West and Camas Power Equipment provided guidance and supplies for the project, and fellow troop members helped with the restoration.