Community Answers Festival of Northern Lights' Call to Assist in Combating Vandalism
Festival of Northern Lights organizers announce offer of assistance from Fairmount Security Services and address concerns about displays being relocated out of the downtown core.
The Festival of Northern Lights is receiving a groundswell of support in its efforts to address an unprecedented wave of vandalism, with Fairmount Security Services stepping forward to help safeguard the cherished displays. President and CEO Thomas Wheildon and his team have volunteered their services to monitor the festival, providing a vital boost to security as volunteers work tirelessly to maintain the annual event’s magic.
The board expressed deep gratitude for the community’s response in a November 28 post on their Facebook page. “The smiles and appreciation from those who come to enjoy the lights make every effort worthwhile,” they said, reaffirming their commitment to keeping the displays bright for residents and visitors alike.
Security Efforts Strengthened
Fairmount Security’s involvement comes as the festival grapples with a string of vandalism incidents that have disrupted operations and damaged displays. Incidents include destruction of the Vortex display’s control box, harm to the Tim’s Tree, and the smashing of buildings in the village display. Volunteers have worked around the clock to repair the damage and ensure the lights remain a joyful centerpiece for the community.
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The Festival has had various types of security over the years, including volunteers walking in pairs, Georgian College Law and Security students, and the Police Auxiliary unit. Georgian College students had to stop due to a lack of resources, organizers said.
However, Festival volunteers still walk the lights early in the evening to check that the displays work and remove garbage or other items, ensuring displays are safe and ready to be enjoyed. They walk the displays at other times throughout the night and are sometimes joined by the Owen Sound Police Auxiliary, as resources allow.
Long-Term Considerations
The board explained that implementing full-time patrols across the downtown River District and Harrison Park would require extensive resources. They also addressed questions about fencing.
“The reason the fencing is no longer used is because it severely reduced the impact and enjoyment of the displays, especially for children,” organizers wrote. “We have not used fencing for over 5 years and found that vandalism had not increased until this year.”
While security cameras are not currently in use due to cost and logistical considerations, the board is exploring their feasibility for investigating severe incidents if needed.
Will the Northern Lights be removed from downtown?
Organizers say they have no plans to move all displays to Harrison Park and wanted to address the issue as community members have expressed concern with the idea.
“Since the beginning, the Festival has prided itself on bringing some colour and excitement to the River District and adding to the natural beauty of the Sydenham River going through downtown Owen Sound. We know people who enjoy these lights and might not have the means or opportunity to get to Harrison Park. The Festival's lights will continue to shine downtown and at Harrison Park for all to enjoy,” organizers wrote.
The board emphasized the importance of keeping displays accessible in the downtown core, where they have brought colour and joy for 37 years.
How You Can Help
Residents are encouraged to support the festival through donations via e-transfer to info@fonl.ca or at the kiosk in Harrison Park. Funds go directly toward maintaining and creating displays. Anyone witnessing vandalism is urged to contact Owen Sound Police at 519-376-1234.
“The Festival is a testament to the spirit of our community,” the board noted. “With your support, we will overcome these challenges and continue to bring light and joy to Owen Sound.”
For updates or inquiries, email info@fonl.ca.
Source: Festival of Northern Lights on Facebook, November 28, 2024