Jeff and Kay Jabusch were named citizens of the year. The Wrangell Cooperative Association was named organization of the year. Alice Rooney took home volunteer of the year. Jack Carney won the award for educator of the year while his son, Jackson Carney, was awarded young leader of the year.
And this year’s theme for the Fourth of July celebration? Small Town, Big Heart.
The chamber of commerce’s annual dinner took place on Saturday, March 15, at the Nolan Center and was catered by Wrangell’s newest eatery: The Wolf Shack.
For those familiar with Jeff and Kay Jabusch, it should come as no surprise that the couple was selected for citizens of the year. Every Halloween the couple treats trick-or-treaters with king-sized candy bars and even bigger decorations.
And when pumpkin spice season turns to peppermint, the Jabusches don’t pump the brakes. Every winter, Kay bakes thousands of cookies and gives them out around town. Meanwhile, Jeff spends (seemingly) every waking hour volunteering for Wrangell’s youth basketball program.
“Jeff and Kay are the most wonderful people,” their nominator wrote to the chamber. “Not only are they the most kind couple, but they spread positivity throughout the community and have a great impact on the lives of others, without others knowing who is behind the actions.”
Meanwhile, 2024 was quite the year for WCA. They brought master totem carvers to town to not just carve multiple totem poles but to train a team of apprentices. They helped organize the U.S. Army’s apology for its 1869 bombardment of Wrangell and they led much of the celebration surrounding the U.S. Capitol Christmas Tree’s unveiling and send-off from Wrangell in October.
“Through its visionary leadership, innovative approaches and steadfast dedication to the community, Wrangell Cooperative Association has not only achieved remarkable success but has also laid a strong foundation for the future of Wrangell,” the nomination letter wrote.
Is there anything Alice Rooney doesn’t do? The answer to that is probably why she was awarded as volunteer of the year by the chamber. After moving to Wrangell in the 1970s as a volunteer with the Episcopal Church, she has been nonstop ever since. She initially worked as a social worker in the community. But even in her retirement, Rooney finds time to head back to the hospital’s long-term care facility and lead weekly sing-alongs.
“She has worked tirelessly to make Wrangell a more caring and supportive place,” Rooney’s nomination letter read. “She has written the script and music for several musical productions … and her piano playing has added comfort and joy to uncounted weddings and funerals.”
For educator of the year and young leader of the year, the Carney boys swept the awards. Jack, a high school teacher, has taught in Wrangell since 2012. He teaches history, language arts and physical education. All the while, many folks around town know him for his success as a wrestling coach (both middle and high school).
“Jack is one of the most passionate educators and coaches I have ever met,” his nomination letter read. “His enthusiasm, high energy and drive are admirable. Mr. Carney effectively engages students through captivating storytelling and insightful advice.”
Jackson Carney received the award for young leader of the year. A high school sophomore, Carney’s 2024 was rather busy. He became a state champion wrestler; traveled to Washington, D.C., to accompany the U.S. Capitol Christmas Tree; and was voted “student of the quarter” by his teachers in the fall.
“He is bright, articulate and naturally curious. He is not afraid to ask questions and respectfully share his opinion. He is solution-oriented and is eager to use his phenomenal problem-solving skills to tackle challenges,” according to the letter addressing his nomination.
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