Project 56 makes $6,000 donation to track program as Ritzville prepares to welcome nearly 600 athletes to the Undeberg Invite

Last updated Apr 26, 2018 12:0pm0

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PROJECT 56. As the final project and donation from the Project 56 committee, a plaque was installed at the Ritzville School District’s track facility to thank local donors for their support in helping the construction of the all-weather track become a possibility. The Project 56 committee also presented a $6,000 donation to the school district to use specifically for the track program. Those involved in the donation at the track on April 20 were (from left) Gaynel Gering, Gordy Gering, Gayle Gering, Spike Arlt, Al McBroom, Greg Whitmore, Kris Harder and Heidi Hunt. The installation of the plaque and donation comes just in time for the Undeberg Invitational on Saturday. -Journal photo by Katelin Davidson

As the final act of the Project 56 Committee, a $6,000 donation was made to the local track program. The funds are the remaining donation monies collected during Project 56’s efforts to fundraise for the construction of an all-weather track.

The donation will only be used for the track program, and Lind-Ritzville Athletic Director Greg Whitmore suggested a portion may be used to purchase a new high jump pit.

The project became a reality in 2015 through local donations, as well as bond through the Ritzville School District.

The creation of the modern track facility has allowed Ritzville to host track meets, such as the Undeberg Invitational, which attracts over 500 athletes each year. The Undeberg Invite returns to Ritzville on April 28.

With remaining funds, the Project 56 committee also installed a plaque, which commemorates and recognizes donors for their support.

The plaque is located near the concession stand in order to have maximum visibility.

The plaque reads, “In Recognition of and Appreciation to the Community and Volunteers for their Countless Time and the Monetary Donations making this Track a Reality. Project initiated by the Class of 1956 and completed by the Ritzville School District.”