After three months of preparations, Jose Diaz-Davila was ready to get his hands dirty. The 17-year old recent graduate from Gateway High School had been planning this project with his scoutmaster, family, fellow scouts and friends for more than three months; long enough. Now they wanted to see some results. Jose has been a Scout ever since he began as a Cub Scout 10 years earlier. With the help of Scout Troop 240 from Kissimmee, Jose was working to achieve his Eagle Scout Award, one of the highest in the Boy Scout organization.

Above - St. Cloud Villas before Jose Diaz-Davila
and Scout Troop 240 began their project.

 His parents, Jose and Vivienne Diaz-Davila, have been supportive throughout his entire scouting experience, providing encouragement and guidance. Jose's scout troop provided the manpower along with several parents and the Osceola Council on Aging provided the project.

 Recently the Council on Aging finished construction
on the latest independent living facility in St. Cloud
known as St. Cloud Villas II. But landscaping was not extensive and that is where Jose and his troop of scouts, family and friends came to the
rescue.

 "When I saw this facility, I knew I could make a difference, so I contacted the Council and asked if I could help," said Jose.

 "It required lots of planning and we received some great donations, but the results are great," he continued. More than 200 plants, shrubs and trees were donated for the project from local nurseries.

 The fence was also donated and constructed by the scouts.

 The Osceola Council on Aging congratulates
Jose for his Eagle Scout Award and thanks
he and his team for their wonderful contribution
to St. Cloud Villas II.

Right - Jose stands between his parents, Jose and Vivienne Diaz-Davila and standing behind, Jose's scoutmaster, Gary Schmidt.




Lower Left - Aglais Guerra and Maria Arroyo sit and enjoy the lush landscape surrounding their residence.

Lower Right - Irene Cremmins relaxes with a background of Florida shrubs and trees providing shade while attracting birds and butterflies.