December 10, 2021

T’was the night of FirstEnergy’s “Light Up Holiday Smiles” event, and a steady, light rain couldn’t stop the crowd from showing up on Dec. 1 – ready to celebrate at the corner of Mayfield and Green roads in East Cleveland’s South Euclid community.

The city of South Euclid was selected from a group of 16 applicants as the recipient of a professionally designed light display in our first annual “Light Up Holiday Smiles with FirstEnergy” program. The initiative was designed to help make the season brighter and merrier with the gift of holiday lights for a deserving northeast Ohio community.

Mickey Mouse greets a young attendee at FirstEnergy’s “Light Up Holiday Smiles” event.

“All the applications told compelling stories of how the communities have weathered economic adversity and are focused on creating a brighter future for their residents,” said Steve Strah, president and CEO. “FirstEnergy is honored to recognize the efforts underway in South Euclid to ensure a vibrant and strong community through the ‘Light Up Holiday Smiles’ program, which supports togetherness and joy during the holiday season.’

Interested communities were asked to submit statements outlining why they should be considered for the display, including local efforts to promote diversity, equity and inclusion in the community. South Euclid distinguished itself with its strong commitment to fair housing and anti-discrimination laws, commitment to diversity and efforts to promote racial equity and social justice. The city is also represented by a broad range of active civic organizations and citizen volunteers committed to working together.

“I want to thank FirstEnergy for recognizing all the hard work and accomplishments we have made as a city to keep South Euclid a wonderful place to live and play,” said South Euclid Mayor Georgine Welo during the Dec. 1 park-lighting ceremony to celebrate the special recognition. “We achieved these efforts by working together as a team with city council and residents to make our city’s slogan – ‘Come Together & Thrive’ – a reality.”

Sam Belcher, senior vice president, Operations, spoke to the crowd during a countdown ceremony, prior to flipping the switch that activated the park lights.

L.-r.: Sam Belcher and Major Welo are ready to flip the switch for the holiday lighting display as Mrs. Claus and Santa lead the crowd in a countdown.

“While this display, when lit, will clearly brighten the corner of Mayfield and Green, the reason we’re here tonight is because of South Euclid brightening the community each and every day and making lives better for the residents all around,” Sam said. “This city distinguished itself by demonstrating a sincere commitment to core values that are near and dear to FirstEnergy. I would say South Euclid sets a very clear example for all of us to follow and, as we look forward, I expect the city will be bright for many years to come.”

And with that, the switch was flipped, the beautiful display was lit, and the people of South Euclid gathered amongst the lights to enjoy the scene, take holiday photos and share smiles along the way.

This program is part of our efforts to highlight our positive presence in the communities we serve. Because of the success of this event, we look forward to expanding the program to a larger part of our service area.