Long-time July Fourth committee chairman Brian McDowell has announced that 2009 will be his last year to head the group.

“The Fourth Fest Celebration Society needs some new people,” McDowell said. “This year will be our 88th consecutive celebration and it would be great to see it continue.”

McDowell and his family moved to McPherson before school started this past year. He is willing to serve as chairman for one more year to help create a smooth transition for a new group of Peabody residents who would like to see the tradition continue.

“We will be holding an organizational meeting Thursday night at 7:30 in the city council room of the city building,” McDowell said. “We encourage those interested in continuing the Peabody July Fourth tradition to attend the meeting.”

The celebration includes many positions for volunteers. Chairmen are needed to supervise construction of fireworks, a firing crew, flea market, car show, parade, entertainment, food vendors, advertising, and gate crews. In addition, volunteer workers are needed to make committees successful.

Anyone unable to attend the Thursday meeting can contact McDowell at home and be added to the list. Contact him at 620-504-6261.