Planning for Chimes and Lights on schedule

The Chimes and Lights committee met for the fourth time in as many months Wednesday, continuing to nail down details in preparation for the seasonal festival that’s fast approaching.

“Things are going very well,” said committee chair John Clauson, who has been involved in festival planning since the very first year. “We’re (currently) out investigating the trees.”

According to Clauson, at least seven trees were offered to the committee for the festival display at City Hall.

“We’re getting quite a few final things worked out,” Clauson said. “We’ve got commitments from a number of features for the festival.”

Clauson said a laser show has been scheduled, antique tractor hayrides will be featured again this year and have expanded to two wagons to accommodate demand and he has received an absolute commitment from Mr. and Mrs. Claus.

“Yes, they’re going to be there and their looking forward to it,” Clauson said.

The caroling group from last year has signed on and Clauson said the Carlisle II foot ferry will somehow be incorporated into the festival.

The one dark spot on the horizon, according to Clauson, is the festival’s financial situation.

“We’re still working,” Clauson said. “We’ve got two of the three that supported the festival last year for the laser show.”

Clauson said the committee is still seeking general support for a variety of other areas, but the committee has received some donations.

“We’re never ‘good’ on finances,” Clauson laughed. “We never have enough money.”

As far as planning a new addition to the festival — a fireworks show over the waterfront — Clauson said the committee is still trying to get financial support.

“It’s still sitting on the table,” Clauson said. “We’re still hopeful. If there are any worries, it’s funding for fireworks. Everything else is coming together really quite well compared to some previous years.”

The committee will meet again on Monday, Oct. 18.

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