Joseph Cormier, owner of American By Products Co. on Andrew Street, made a soaring investment in the city this summer.

As a longtime supporter of the city's flower barrel program, Cormier took his annual contribution to the beautification of Lynn to new heights when he paid for the installation of a flagpole on city property in Olympia Square.

"I think its wonderful that someone takes such pride in their city that they want to use their own funds to beautify the community," said Joanna Mills, who oversees the barrel program as part of her duties in the Office of Economic and Community Development.

According to Mills, when Cormier noticed flag poles in City Hall Square, he thought they were beautiful and wanted to do the same thing to Olympia Square.

"I'm normally very private about these things and I don't want credit for it," Cormier said. "I originally wanted my contribution to be anonymous but I realized if others knew about it then maybe it would encourage more people to do the same thing. We have to take pride in the city; otherwise all you have is apathy."

Cormier loves flags and has several on the grounds of his business, including an American flag, a U.S. Marine Corps flag and a P.O.W. flag in honor of his brother, now deceased, who fought in the Korean War as a U.S. Marine.

American By Products Co. is one of the regular sponsors of the OECD's 19-year old flower barrel program.

"It's just another way that Lynn can work with community members to show the city in a positive light," said Mills.

More than 30 barrels from Boston Street to City Hall Square are currently being sponsored by Lynn businesses, organizations and citizens.

"It's a way for people to give back and join in the responsibility of taking care of their city," said Cormier. "I have noticed positive changes in the city, community members are taking steps to return to its former glory."

Program sponsorship is $200 a year and barrel decorations are changed to reflect the four seasons. Barrels are marked with a sign bearing the names of sponsors.