–Photo by Jim Piacentini.

If Halloween is over, Christmas can’t be far behind.

In Crete, that means preparations are underway for the annual Parade of Lights.

The parade is a highlight of the holiday season, along with Crete Country Christmas.

The parade is slated for Saturday, December 6, from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m.

Country Christmas will take place from December 4 through 9 and features Reindog Contest and Pet Blessings, a Grinch Breakfast, Visits with Santa, and a Kris Kringle Market.

Planning for the event is a collaborative effort of the Chamber of Commerce, the Village of Crete, Crete Park District, Crete Public Library, Crete Township, local businesses, civic groups, and residents. 

The board of trustees last week adopted a resolution authorizing the village to close Rt. 1 for the parade and approved a request for time extension of the sound permit for Crete Country Christmas. The sound permit is needed for the CCC entertainment tent’s DJs and music.

In another matter during the October 27 meeting, Emergency Management Agency Director Ryan Allison announced the grant from Earthrise has been used to acquire an ATV that will be shared with the PD and FD. 

Media Consultant Borrell is working on a recruitment video and website promotion of EMA.

Also, Trustee Jamie Healy voiced thanks to Jacob Loosemore, Crete Department of Public Works, for his “timely, informative posts to social media keeping the public aware of services, emergencies, and road closures.”