The Times - Serving Waitsburg, Dayton and the Touchet Valley

PRESCOTT - Milenko Matanovic, founder and director of the Pomegranate Center, will return to Prescott on June 19 - 22 to oversee the "build" phase of the Prescott Vacant Lot Project. The Steering Committee is hoping for a large turnout of local volunteers to join hands and bring this community vision to life.

A budget for the project - funded by a $25,000 Pomegranate Center grant -- was developed following the initial planning meetings in early April. Financial records for the project are administered locally through the Blue Mountain Action Council. Throughout April and May the Steering Committee sought donated and second-hand building materials and local businesses have helped cut costs by offering discounted rates for materials and supplies.

Concrete has been poured and cured in preparation of the "build." The majority of the excavation work is finished and gravel has been delivered. Young men from Jubilee Leadership Academy spent a recent Saturday spreading gravel and helping where needed. The water system is hooked up and drip lines are in place, awaiting the addition of plants and shrubs that will be planted during the four-day "barn-raising style project.

Many volunteers will be needed to complete the "build." The project is set up so that people can donate as much time as they have available. Some may volunteer to work all four days, while others may have only a few hours to spare. Workers should dress appropriately and wear adequate foot protection. No open toes shoes can be worn on the work site. Organizers suggest that volunteers wear sunscreen and bring work gloves as well.

A food committee has planned menus and will serve three meals and two snacks each day at the Prescott Lions Hall, located next door. Donations of baked goods such as cookies, muffins, cakes, pies and snacks will be greatly appreciated. "We want volunteers to know that Prescott is a friendly place, ready to roll out the welcome mat and share treats with those who care enough to come make this project a success," said Steering Committee Member Patsy Adams.

Those interested in helping on the project can sign up at the Prescott Community Library or call Matt Tunell at (509) 629-4570 or Patsy Adams at (509) 629-1903. Libby McCaw is the contact person for food donations and food committee volunteers. She can be contacted at (509) 529-7918.