Doolittle organizers need volunteers

Construction begins in less than a week

MOSES LAKE - Construction of Gen. James H. Doolittle Park begins in less than a week, and organizers are lacking enough volunteers to build the park.

"Basically, we have about 200 volunteers and we need a thousand," said organizer Tara Childs.

Construction is from March 26 to March 30.

Childs said volunteers are needed for four-hour shifts. Shifts are open from 8 a.m. to noon, from 1:30 p.m. to 5 p.m. and from 5:30 p.m. to 9 p.m.

"Basically, we just want a four-hour shift from people," Childs said. "It should be a piece of cake."

Childcare is provided for children who are potty trained, through 10 years old.

Youth ages 10 to 14 can build next to a parent, Childs said. Older youth can work independently but cannot use power tools.

Volunteers 18 and older can use power tools.

Meals are provided by Michael's On The Lake, Papa's Casino Restaurant & Lounge, and church groups, she said.

Childs said with less volunteers, the park will be smaller.

"The time span is set," said volunteer Frank Stocker. "We have four days to build the park. The more people we have, the bigger the park is."

Childs said volunteers do not have to feel overwhelmed, as they will be making no decisions. Volunteers are assigned a simple task to repeat.

"If I'm going to drill holes, I'll just keep drilling holes," she said.

Childs advised volunteers to dress in work clothes and bring a hammer, screwdriver and gloves.

In addition to volunteers, power tools are needed for the park's construction, Childs said.

No unskilled workers are going to use power tools, and if the tools are broken they will be replaced, she noted.

"I'll be set up on Monday and Tuesday to take these loaners," said Tools Loaner Committee Chair Mark Fanning.

To find out what tools are needed for construction, contact Mark Fanning at 509-989-4120 or e-mail mfanning53@msn.com.

To volunteer, call Tara Childs at 509-771-0074.