Volunteers still needed for Fourth of July events

Volunteers are still being sought for Fourth of July events scheduled July 1 to 4.

The chamber of commerce needs people to assist in setting up, running and taking down the 17 events that are set to take place over the celebratory weekend.

Chairpersons for all the events except the log rolling competition have been recruited, but those chairpersons need help.

Meanwhile, a past event that wasn’t held last year is returning much to the delight of its volunteer chair, Adrienne McLaughlin. She will oversee the greased pole competition, something her father and grandfather chaired in the past. She said when she heard it would be making a return, she had to step into the role since it’s like a one generation passing it on to the next.

“It’s kind of the kickoff,” she said. “It brings so much laughter and joy to the kickoff of the Fourth of July, all for a $100 bill.”

In essence, a greased PVC pipe is suspended over the water. Contestants must attempt to climb the pole to reach the money at the top end. The first person to reach and retrieve the money wins.

Other events might not be as glamorous, but about two to three volunteers are needed for each one, said Luana Wellons, executive assistant at the chamber.

“Volunteers are vital to these events,” she said. “We couldn’t put them on without their help.”

Wellons said as the Fourth of July celebration gets closer, volunteers are “seeming to come out of the woodwork.”

Anyone who would like to volunteer can reach out to the chamber at 907-874-3901 or info@wrangellchamber.com.