This is not intended as an appeal for funds, but rather as an explanation to those who have written me asking why I don’t have a set date for doing the work.

A few years ago, Troop 160 started decorating the bandstand in Hastings Park for the holidays.  It started very much spur-of-the-moment with various people throwing money in the hat.  Typically, Alan Wrigley has provided the tree.  Peter Kelley kicked in some big lights and a tree stand.  I think I have mentioned that before.  No troop funds were used.  We did miss one year when the bandstand was being rebuilt.

So why not this year just as we have every other year?  Historically, we have done it Thanksgiving weekend so there is no pause between decoration and lighting.  We have found it keeps vandalism at bay a little better.

Just when it will be done is up in the air this year.  For several reasons it has been decided that LED lights will be used this year.  The town is going to that type of light for all holiday lighting so I think it is appropriate for us to do the same.  I had intended to do so for next year, but the decision by the town has pushed us into it a year early.  The town lighting effort is also a volunteer effort, by the way.  No town funds are used and the town is reimbursed for any use of DPW labor.

Unfortunately, I have a funding source for only $200 for the new lights which are expected to run about $600 at last projection.  That projection is being refined, but it will probably not drop below that figure.  I am also running out of time to actually get the lights.  Although LED lights are sold locally, they are not the same quality.

The holiday lighting has become one way we thank the town for their support of Scouting and Troop 160 so I am hopeful of finding a source of funding for this year.  If I do, we will be doing the decoration of the bandstand on short notice.  So stay tuned!!!

And if you have any ideas for funding sources, please let me know.

-Hank