April 4, 2018 at 5:30 p.m.
Bandstand to host light show for holidays
Chuck Caldwell, vice president of the not-for-profit organization, asked for permission from the Town Council last night to install the lighting system. Under plans outlined by Caldwell, the lights would begin on the evening of Dec. 1st and run through the holidays. He said an exact schedule has yet to be determined but the hours would be longer on weekends. He suggested 6:30 to 8 p.m. Mondays through Fridays.
The hope is that the light show would drive traffic, and possibly business, to the town, such as people stopping to eat dinner or shop after seeing the lights.
The lights are controlled by a computer program and computerized switching device that has already been purchased by Heritage of Hope, Caldwell said. Each of the banks of lights on the roof, railings and sides of the bandstand -- including a line of illuminated Christmas trees -- would blink and be synchronized to the music. The music would play from speakers and from an FM radio transmitter, Caldwell said.
Heritage of Hope is paying the $2,000 to purchase the equipment and lights. The group will also be looking for sponsors to help pay for the event and to expand it. The lights are LED lighting and should cause minimal utility expense to the town, Caldwell said.
Council member Jonathan Titus suggested the group consider applying for money from the town's Economic Development Income Tax fund in the future to help pay for the performances.
Caldwell said the same system could also be used for events such as the Old-Fashioned Independence Day celebration, but with it getting dark later during the summer, the shows would have to be more limited.
Eventually, the light show could expand to other areas of the Town Square, finances allowing.
The Town Council voted enthusiastically in favor of the proposal to install the lights and allow the performances in the Town Square.
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