After 18 years, the Autumn Lights Festival continues to grow through the charity and good will of our residents and businesses. We have once again proved what dedicated individuals can accomplish when they work together. For myself, I believe it is said best in the words of the A-Team's TV character Hannibal Smith, "I love it when a plan comes together."
This year's planning and coordination were made possible through a dedicated ALF committee, cooperation of township departments and employees in conjunction with the mayor 's office, volunteers from the P.A.L. and West Milford High School, and the financial donations of our sponsors.
With so many people on the list to individually thank, I would be remiss if I did not start by thanking my wife, Ren, and my family for their support of me as I have spent time working along so many great individuals to make this event possible.
The Autumn Lights Festival Committee is comprised of six core members who have made the festival a roaring success during my time as chairman; Vendor Coordinator Diane Wurdemann; Activities Coordinator Jane Amend; Media Coordinator Erika Crocco; Sponsorship Coordinator Joyce Leinberger; Township Liaison Ed Rosone.
I would also like to thank the businesses in town who are affected this one day a year as well as all the vendors who continue to come back year after year. Without them we wouldn't have anything to offer the residents and visitors of West Milford.
Each year as the festival concludes, our committee continues to meet and discuss this year's event and how we can make next year's even better. We also encourage public feedback from our residents and businesses through our Web site, www.autumnlightsfestival.com. Registration for ALF 2013 will begin on April 1, 2013.
Next year, we look to continue the responsible growth and success of the festival. Some of our early discussions involve adding more family participation events like sack races, a three-legged race and of course the ever-fun egg toss. With so many great ideas for "A Celebration and Success of West Milford," I hope you will join me in helping shape ALF 2013 and beyond.
Rocky Hazelman
2012 ALF Chairman