Eagle Scout Candidate Tucker Pecha Aims to Restore Dumont Town Staple

At the heart of Dumont, IA, is a popcorn stand. It’s stood for years, offering something intangible to everyone: fun, responsibility, comfort, and more. Dumont residents share fondness and nostalgia due to generations of memories at the popcorn stand. The stand is a symbol of positivity and connection for the entire community. Unfortunately, the physical building of the popcorn stand does not reflect the strength of residents’ memories; it’s been years since it’s received any of its much-needed updates.

Many individuals, over multiple generations, have childhood memories spending summers buying popcorn from the stand and later volunteering as a young adult. Tucker Pecha, 16 and a North Butler High School student, is one example. As a child, he enjoyed snacking, and now, he works at the stand. He joined Cub Scout Pack 26 at just five years old, advanced to Boy Scouts Troop 1026 at ten, and he is now an Eagle Scout Candidate. Eagle Scouts must prove that they have a deep understanding of what community means.

“Eagle Scouts must be loyal, helpful, courteous, and kind. Those characteristics can also describe Tucker and his family. The journey to Eagle Scout is not easy; it requires a lot of hard work and knowledge,” said MaTina Clark, Troop 1026 Assistant Scoutmaster. In 2023, only 29, 269 young adults earned the honor in the US (Scouting America Website). 

Through his own experience with the stand and Boy Scouts, Tucker came to understand and develop a passion for what the town hub symbolized: being a part of something more, remaining connected, and being unique. Tucker has chosen to reconstruct the popcorn stand as his Eagle Scout project because he wants to preserve Dumont’s past, his childhood memories, and allow future generations to create their own stories. This choice shows his dedication and love for his hometown – clearly indicating he will deserve the Eagle Scout title once the project is completed.

“Tucker’s Eagle Scout project gives back to his community. The popcorn stand is a tradition in Dumont; it is a way to bring people together and strengthen the town. This community will benefit from Tucker Pecha's efforts,” continued MaTina Clark, Troop 1026 Assistant Scoutmaster.

The project will cost $11,876, and Tucker raised the money through donations from local and regional businesses. First Security Bank & Trust knows that what the stand represents – relationships, memories, and tradition - is the essence of Dumont. First Security is proud to contribute to and be involved in this project because it reflects our Core Value of community. When it’s completed, Dumont will have a powerful new member in Eagle Scout Tucker Pecha and an improved town tradition.