Annual volunteer effort spruces up Plains

As the days grow shorter and the leaves begin to change color, it is once again time for the annual Plains Beautification Days.

This cherished community event is the result of countless volunteer hours spent identifying homeowners in need, connecting with generous local businesses and selecting projects that can make a meaningful difference throughout the community.

“This year I have noticed a lot more sponsors wanting to support Beautification Days,” said organizer Lana Dicken. “I like that we get to help the same people with jobs they can't do on their own. They know they can depend on us and that we'll be there to support them.”

Volunteers gathered Saturday morning at the Plains Fire Station, where committee members Scott Johnson, Dicken and Anita Marsh distributed assignments for the day. Most of the work involved light yard maintenance, including trimming, raking and weeding, to help spruce up several properties throughout town. This year's projects also included cleanup efforts at two city-owned locations, including Dorothy Johnson Park.

The event brought together 17 adult volunteers and four youth volunteers who dedicated their Saturday to helping residents who are elderly, physically unable, or otherwise in need of assistance maintaining their properties.

One of the homeowners who benefited from the program was Patty Dalling, who recently underwent shoulder surgery.

“Thank you, guys, so much,” Dalling said. “It is something that I need help with a lot. Having this is wonderful.”

Support from local businesses once again played a key role in the success of the event. Studs donated gloves and trash bags, while The Butcher's Nook treated volunteers with ice cream. Plains Preschool provided bottled water, and Wild Horse Pizza donated lunch for the workers. Fresh donuts were donated by Scenic Valley Farm Market, located on Upper Lynch Creek near Plains.

Through the efforts of volunteers, sponsors, and organizers, Plains Beautification Days continues to demonstrate the strength of community spirit and the willingness of local residents to lend a helping hand to their neighbors in need.

    Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints missionaries Elder Branson Cherry and Elder Chance Christensen help out during Plains Beautifications Day with local resident Deb Warren. (Tracy Scott/Valley Press)
 Tracy Scott   

    Plains Public Works employee Sam Crist helps clean up Dorothy Johnson Park. (Tracy Scott/Valley Press)
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    Scott Johnson donates his mower and time during the Plains Beautification Day. (Tracy Scott/Valley Press)
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    Scott Johnson, one of the organizers of Plains Beautification Day, briefs volunteers on the day's projects. (Tracy Scott/Valley Press)
 Tracy Scott