By Dennis Box-The Courier-Herald

Volunteers at the fifth annual Beautify Bonney Lake event hit another home run Sept. 20 as the community gathered to plant trees, clean up and make the city look spiffy.

Despite plenty of rain, nearly 500 people showed up to participate in the town work party between 9 a.m. and noon.

According to Lillian McGinnis, executive director for the Beautify Bonney Lake board of directors, there were 16 sites across the city.

“All the projects were done,” McGinnis said. “I told people it was going to happen rain or shine, but I never thought there would be so much rain. I was surprised how many came.”

McGinnis said more than 100 trees were planted at four sites including ball field No. 4 and the Bonney Lake High School area. Concrete landscaping blocks were placed at Ascent Park and sod was removed at the Lions 4 Kids House.

Work crews planted native trees and daffodil bulbs in the Lake Bonney area along with spreading bark and picking up litter.

The students, high school athletic teams, church members and residents from across the area came together for this event. Local business donated food and materials for the cause.

McGinnis said planning and preparation of the 2009 event has already begun.

“Next year will be the sixth year of Beautify Bonney Lake and Bonney Lake’s 60th year of existence,” McGinnis said.

Reach Dennis Box at dbox@courierherald.com or 360-802-8209.