For the past few years, around 6:30 a.m. on July 4, Bruce and Diane O’Dell have driven from their home in North Park, crossed the Coronado Bridge and inflated two dozen red, white and blue balloons to decorate parade bleachers by 9 a.m.
The O’Dells are among a team of more than 100 volunteers for the Coronado Fourth of July, assisting with the preparations that happen prior to the start of each annual parade. The all-volunteer organization is looking for more people to help out with the 2025 event.
Diane has photos of her husband and herself volunteering since 2018, but Diane’s roots in Coronado date back to her father, Tom Rice, a past WWII veteran and Coronado resident.
“We used to watch it with my dad,” Diane said about her reason for choosing to volunteer in Coronado. “They had him in the parade a few times.”
Bruce also worked in Coronado at Naval Air Station North Island for more than 20 years.
Bruce, 72, and Diane, 68, said they have volunteered consecutively for the Coronado Fourth of July parade for at least four years but have attended this parade since the 90s.
“We’re kind of adopted by the city,” added Diane.
During the parade, the O’Dells also assist with passing out programs and water bottles all while getting a chance to watch each float – including Diane’s favorite, the horses.
“It’s a perfect opportunity to be able to contribute,” said Diane. “When you’re part of something you feel great.”
“And you get a shirt!” added Bruce.
CFOJ board
The Coronado Fourth of July is an all-volunteer 501c3 nonprofit embracing the traditions of the nation’s Independence Day to create a patriotic celebration for the entire Coronado community.
“Our focus is producing a safe and entertaining Fourth of July celebration for all to enjoy in Coronado,” said Jamie Hartnett, who serves as the president for the Coronado Fourth of July board of directors. “Our work to secure the best parade entries, committed sponsors, generous donors and enthusiastic volunteers is in full effect.”
The organization announced this year’s board of directors on March 7.
Officers include: Jamie Hartnett, president; Maggie Hannegan, vice president; Jennifer Stein, secretary; Bridgette Jorgenson, treasurer.
Directors at large include: Debra Balsley, Doug Clarke, Judy Clarke, Carrie Downey, Andrew Gade, Robb Huff, Kathy Summers and Dave Szymanski.
‘Don’t be afraid to volunteer’
Last year, Coronado resident Brad Morris took over as the organization’s volunteer manager.
Morris said he, alongside Summers, overlooks the volunteers who ensure the day goes smoothly.
“The parade is 100% volunteers,” said Morris. “We still have room available in every role, none of them are completely filled yet.”
Morris said the organization is looking to welcome up to 150 volunteers across 19 roles, ranging from set up crew for the parade route and banners, to volunteer photographers.
The application for those positions can be found online at the Coronado Fourth of July website under its volunteer page.
The O’Dells are part of the decorations and hospitality marker team, which requires eight volunteers to help with set up on the day of the parade, but Morris said people can also volunteer prior to the event.
Volunteers can earn credit for their hours, have the opportunity to watch the fireworks from a unique, undisclosed location, participate in a celebratory dinner following the event, and keep a t-shirt designed specifically for the parade annually, said Morris.
“We could not be more excited about making plans for our favorite day of the year – with an emphasis on good times to be had by all!” Hartnett said.
“Don’t be afraid to volunteer,” added Morris. “You will be welcomed with many open arms.”
