Many RHS alumni are lending their support to Project 56

This weekend is always one of my favorites of the year. It is the time that I get to see fellow alumni from good old Ritzville High School!

I have the added benefit of not just seeing everyone I went to school with but all the students I had along the way.

My deep pride for R.H.S. is because of the 30 plus years I have actively been a part of in classrooms, courts and fields. I have logged in 1,000s of hours being a Bronco fan and watching so many young people discover their true potential. There are state championships I have been part of as a player, a coach and a parent. I have also seen the agony of defeat. That is where you see true dignity and integrity.

Through all of these years, I can honestly say, because of our school, young people develop into adults that contribute and make a difference in our society.

That is also why I am now president of Project 56, it was formed in 2005 by members of the Class of 1956. Lofty goals were set to raise money for a new all-weather track and baseball/softball complex.

Many achievements can be noted by this group as more than $200,000 has been raised. Some of this money went into resurfacing the tennis courts. Since then, the tennis team has grown and three athletes are going to Yakima this weekend to compete against the best tennis players in the state.

The baseball team just finished another successful season in the top eight of the state. track athletes will be participating in the WIAA State Track and Field Championships in Cheney. These are such exciting times for athletes, coaches and parents. Imagine hosting those tournaments and meets in Ritzville.

That is what Project 56 is striving for. An all-weather track and baseball/softball complex could be huge for the town of Ritzville. Bringing teams and fans would be a great shot in the arm for our local economy.

It’s nothing flashy but it’s solid.

The Ritzville Invitational Track meet is held in Medical Lake currently. They have an all-weather track. Most teams won’t run on a cinder-track any more. There were over 500 athletes participating with fans filling the stands and over flowing around the track. I witnessed a steady flow to the grocery store and fast food restaurants that day. I’m sure those business owners had a smile on their face at the end of that day. I’d like to see our business owners with that same smile.

Project 56 has many alumni to thank this weekend for their efforts with the First Annual Scramble Golf Tournament, Freeway Challenge, Buy-a-Buck and the BBQ at the Ritzville Classics at the Park car show.

Linda Olson Waltman and John Kragt are the co-chairs for the golf tournament. A great big thank you must go out to Scott and Theresa Fitch for doing the Freeway Challenge. They will be donating 10 percent of their net profit on Saturday, May 26. I encourage everyone to visit Cow Creek and have a delicious meal or find that perfect gift.

Also, Project 56 must thank Troy and Terina Adams from Harvest Foods, Connie Miller Galbreath from Sunny Spot Floral & Gifts and Angela Kramer Miller from the Brew Happy Coffee Shop for selling “Bronco Bucks” for Project 56. Make sure to stop by their businesses and commend their efforts, get some goodies and don’t forget to Buy-a-Buck.

Renae Brewer Wood must also be commended for her amazing work on all of the designs for posters, registration forms and other advertising materials. Renae has volunteered all of her time and efforts to be part of Project 56, it is so greatly appreciated.

There are many people that have Ritzville to thank for giving them a great start in life. The members of Project 56 are doing their part to say thank you and keep the pride of Ritzville alive.

We would love anyone to join in on this journey. Any kind of contribution makes a difference and a chance to say thank you to the place where it began for you. Go Broncos!

Lori Olson

Class of 1979

President, Project 56