A view of last year's display in Battleford. (File photo/battlefordsNOW Staff)

By Angela Brown

Winter tradition

Lights of Joy tree-lighting project returning to Battleford

Oct 5, 2021 | 9:52 AM

The Battleford Community Spirit Group is once again starting to prepare for the annual Lights of Joy 2021 fundraiser to support the holiday illumination display.

Town of Battleford council approved administration’s recommendation to contribute $200 for the project at Monday’s meeting. The amount was included in the town’s 2021 budget.

Councillors Judy Pruden and Shelley Boutin-Gervais stepped out for this portion of the meeting due to a conflict of interest.

Now in its third year, the Lights of Joy project involves lighting up the trees beside the gazebo at Historic Lions Park on 22nd Street in downtown Battleford.

The organizers plan to turn the lights on Nov. 20 at around 6 p.m.

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Battleford Community Spirit Group president Tim Pruden said in his letter of request to the town that, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the volunteer group hasn’t been able to have fundraising events for the project. So they appreciate any help from the town.

“Last year, when you sponsored one of the trees, you were guaranteed ‘previous purchaser’ opportunity to sponsor the tree for 2021,” he wrote.

After council approved the town’s contribution, Coun. Alexis Christensen, said on behalf of Battlefords Agency Tribal Chiefs Inc. (BATC), that the BATC organization would be willing to contribute $1,000 to show its support for the project.

Christensen said the illumination display brings great joy to people during the winter season.

Battleford Mayor Ames Leslie thanked BATC for their support.

“They are a staple of our community,” Leslie said. “You guys do a lot of great things for our community. Thank you for that very much.”

People are invited to make a $2 donation to purchase a light bulb for the display at any of the participating businesses in Battleford.

The decorative lights will adorn the 16 trees in the park.

More details on the Lights of Joy campaign are available on the Battleford Community Spirit Group’s Facebook Page.

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Angela.Brown@pattisonmedia.com

On Twitter: @battlefordsnow