Lights, Santa, Action (for Meals on Wheels)

It's that time of year...the weeks leading up to Thanksgiving when Chuck Rodgers waves his magic wand and the massive extravaganza of holiday merriment in his yard just appears. If only, especially this year. But no - that's not it at all.

As has been Rodgers' tradition for more than three decades, he spends several weeks setting up inflatables, lit-up scenes and words, putting out his reindeer, and stringing thousands of lights for what becomes the area's most impressive holiday display. And this year he's doing it with a brand new hip, a recently surgically repaired wrist, and a big cuff protecting his deeply bruised ankle – each from unrelated incidents.

So give Rodgers huge kudos for being undaunted by his conditions and give money and nonperishable food to Longmont Meals on Wheels when you enjoy the dancing lights and accompanying music. It's open to the public, free of charge, and last year Rodgers raised $6,520 and donated 208 pounds of food thanks to the kindness of holiday revelers.

The joyful spectacle will be switched on from Saturday, Nov. 30, through the first week of January, beginning each evening at sundown until around 9:30 p.m. Look for the brilliant display at 5980 79th Street between Highway 52 and Lookout Road.