Volunteers sought for Starry Nights

(From the Commercial Appeal)

By Bryan Brasher (Contact), Memphis Commercial Appeal
Friday, August 28, 2009

Shelby Farms is seeking volunteers to help secure thousands of lights to the frames of its Starry Nights holiday display from now until mid-November.

"We estimate that when it's all said and done, we'll need more than 1,000 volunteers to pull off the Starry Nights event," said Jen Andrews, manager of communications for the Shelby Farms Park Conservancy.

Starry Nights was a popular holiday attraction from 1994 to 1999, but the event has been on hiatus for a decade. Its revival this year will feature dozens of elaborate light displays with 1.5 million twinkling bulbs.

Volunteer shifts will work Tuesdays and Thursdays from 4 to 8 p.m. and Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Andrews said park officials can use up to a dozen volunteers per shift. Volunteers must be at least 15 years of age.

"We're hoping for a big response from church groups, school groups, sororities -- just any group of people who would like to lend a hand," Andrews said.

The giant warehouse where the lights are being strung is equipped with fans, but the only air-conditioning is in the break room. Andrews said the job isn't for people who can't sit or stand for long periods or for those with impaired vision or limited use of their hands.

For more information, call volunteer coordinator Sandee Daniels at 767-PARK (7275), ext. 309. Information also is available online at shelbyfarmspark.org and starrynightsmemphis.com.