Each December, hours of work and anticipation lead up to a single moment – the lighting of the city’s Christmas tree on the Civic Center lawn.

 

In the past, various individuals have held the honors of flipping the switch. Here’s a walk down memory lane:

 

In 2012, it was Miss West Virginia Kaitlin Gates of Bridgeport; 2013 Mayor Mario Blount; 2104 Bridgeport’s Curtis Fleming, host of Fly Rod Chronicles; 2015 Mayor Bob Greer; 2016 Bridgeport Middle School Principal Carole Crawford who had that year received national recognition; 2017 Mayor Andy Lang; 2018 WVU Mountaineer Mascot; 2019 the family of the late Melinda Lindsey, who was instrumental in starting and continuing Light Up Night; and in 2020 – the year when the community did not attend, but viewed the tree lighting by TV and livestream, it was actor Dean Cain.

Light Up Night is back for 2021 in its traditional format. Decorated tents will be set up along Main Street with free hot drinks and treats. Bands, dancers, and vocalists will entertain and at 7 p.m. the tree will be lit, followed by fireworks.

 

As for the tree lighter, the Associated Businesses of Bridgeport – host and planning leg of Light Up Night – wants community members to play a role in determining this year’s honoree.

 

“What makes Bridgeport unique are the thousands of people that sacrifice every day, that go unrecognized, who make Bridgeport a special place to live,” said ABB President Doug Marquette. “We are excited about the opportunity this gives to the community to highlight and recognize those most important people.”

 

Is there someone in our city who has affected our community or you personally? It could be a teacher, church leader, medical worker, city official or perhaps someone less known, who works quietly behind the scenes.

 

The ABB welcomes your suggestions. Please explain why this individual is worthy of the honor; how they have made an impact on our community and its residents. Nominations should be postmarked by Nov. 15 and mailed to Associated Businesses of Bridgeport, P.O. Box 33, Bridgeport, WV 26330.

 

Upon receiving all nominees, a selection committee will review and choose the honoree, who would need to be available for the 7 p.m. Dec. 2 tree lighting. That individual will be announced Monday, Nov. 22 on WDTV and here on Connect-Bridgeport.