When it’s time for Hundred’s Independence Day Celebration, which has become a great homecoming for the area’s former and current residents, the plans may be different. Those with ideas and willing hands are encouraged to help with the event. (Photos at the 2011 event by Amy Witschey)

In order for Hundred to have another star-spangled Independence Day Celebration, the town’s leaders need some volunteers to step up and make it a reality.

Town Recorder Sherry Hayes informed council at their Feb. 13 meeting that the three women from Hundred Area PRIDE who have spearheaded the celebration for the past three years have decided it is time for them to step down and pass the task on to a new crew. Just who that crew will be is the question.

Hayes said, “I will handle the books, but I am not doing it.” Councilmen Charles Himelrick and Josh Cecil said they would work on organizing the parade.

However, they still need more help. Those interested in working to keep the event alive and well are asked to contact Hayes at the town building, 304-775-5131.

In the meantime, council agreed to put Hayes and Mayor Charles Sine’s name on the event’s checking account. They also set the event for July 7, as this year July 4 is on a Wednesday.

The account currently carries a balance of $8,000. A quick look at the ledger for last year’s event shows fireworks costing $4,000 and rides and inflatables taking $8,000.

“I would say the fireworks are more important that the blow up rides,” said Councilwoman Johanna Lemasters.

Councilman Brian Bartlett said he has heard people say they would like to have baseball or softball games back at the park during the event.

More ideas and willing workers are welcome.

In other matters, council had previously approved moving the no parking area, and signs denoting such, back by 20 feet on each side of state Route 69 from its intersection with U.S. 250. The action was taken because big trucks cannot make the turn when cars are parked in that area.

“Melissa (Morris, owner of Sweet Melissa’s restaurant on the corner) thinks it’s a good idea,” said Sine.

“What we’ve got to do now is enforce it,” said Himelrick.

The town was going to contact Riverside Services of Proctor again about beginning work on the portion of Belmont Street that is falling over the hillside.

The work was to have begun in late October or early November. Riverside bid $44,745 on the job that is being funded through various grants: $13,500 from the senate; $13,500, house; and $13,500, governor; with the town contributing $4,245.

Council agreed to purchase Super Satellite monkey bars and tri-level bars at a cost of $2,000 for the town’s park. It is funded by a donation from Tim Ashcraft in his passing.

Finally, council agreed to order 100 pamphlets on the Neighborhood Watch program for distribution, at the request of Police Chief Clay Lunceford.