It's only July, but the Bluffton Blaze of Lights committee is already hard at work. Here's some advance news about this year's Blaze.
o This year's Blaze theme is "A Victorian Christmas."
o Event is Saturday, Nov. 24. That's the date of the Ohio State vs. Michigan football game, played in Columbus. This year's game was moved to noon to accommodate the Blaze. (just kidding)
o The parade will form on Snider Road beginning at 4 p.m.
o The parade will start at 5 p.m.
o New this year - the lights of the Ream Holiday folk art display will be turned on following the parade at 6 p.m. (in previous years the lights turned on at 7 p.m.)
Several other activities are being planned and those will be announced when information is confirmed.
Junior Weihrauch of Arlington is again the parade director. Last year's parade had 90 units. He is hoping for 100 units this year.
John George is the town crier (master of ceremonies). You will find him in his top hat on the review stand during the event.
Lauren Beasley is coordinating the downtown business window lighting contest. She is also in charge of the residential contest. Details on these are coming.
Members of the Blaze committee are Tracey Steele, John George, Junior Weihrauch, Ryan Lowry, Brandon Huber, Lauren Beasley and Fred Steiner. The next committee meeting is in August.
The Blaze of Lights is a Bluffton Area Chamber of Commerce event. It is a fund-raiser for the chamber in addition to serving as a major attraction to bring people to the community during the Thanksgiving weekend.