Toronto’s Light-Up Night set for Nov. 24

TORONTO - The city's light-up night, sponsored by the city chamber, is set to begin at 6:30 p.m. Nov. 24 at the city gazebo commons.

Activities will include the lighting of gazebo decorations, the singing of Christmas carols and the lighting of memorial luminaria, according to Melissa Clark-Tice, chamber president and event co-chairman.

"Tom Graham, Jefferson County commissioner, will perform the welcome," said Clark-Tice, adding Mike Bongart, pastor of the Toronto First Presbyterian Church, will perform the invocation. "(Graham) also will sing 'O, Holy Night.' (City residents) Don Clarke and George Komar will be reading the names of those the memorial luminaria are in memory of."

The lighting of a community Christmas tree, decorated by local students, also will be part of the festivities, according to Karen Mellott, event co-chairman.

"A considerable portion of light-up night will consist of presentation of the traditional luminaria, which have been purchased in memory of loved ones or in honor of someone special," said Mellott. "The total profit from the luminaria sale goes directly to the Toronto Unit of the Salvation Army's home heating assistance program. These funds are guaranteed to stay in the community and assist those in need."

Mellott said the luminaria are $6 each or two for $10.

"Those who would like to purchase a luminary should contact the chamber office at (740) 537-4355," Mellott said, adding the luminaria will be made of frosted glass. "Order forms are also located at various stores around Toronto. The deadline to order is Friday."

In the past the luminaria sale has raised thousands of dollars for the Salvation Army's heating program, she added.

"Those not wishing to purchase a luminary can still contribute by sending a check to the chamber," Mellott continued. "That donation will be included in the total given to the Salvation Army."

(Miller can be contacted at mmiller@heraldstaronline.com.)