WATERTOWN, SD – An event to honor the work of those on the front lines in the battle against COVID-19 is being planned all across South Dakota. Between 9:30pm and 10:00pm on Friday May 1st, South Dakota residents are being encouraged to go outside and “Let It Shine.”
What initially began as an event in Sioux Falls to show support for first responders and medical personnel has now grown, with a goal of ultimately uniting the entire state of South Dakota.
Kyle Lalim of Watertown is spearheading the event. He says it was a friend of his that came up with the original idea in Sioux Falls.
“Everybody was encouraged to turn Christmas lights on, get out and shine other lights and bring in emergency response vehicles, as a reminder that we’re all going through this together,” said Lalim.
Lalim says the idea is to get everyone to turn on their lights as a sign that there is a light at the end of the tunnel.
“It’s all to send out the message to health care providers and patients, the businesses that have closed and their employees, those suffering from mental health issues during this time, and others to say, ‘Hey, there’s light at the end of the tunnel, we’re all in this together, let’s think about something positive.’”
Lalim says he would like to put helicopters, planes, and drones in the skies above the state to get photos of South Dakotans “Letting It Shine”. He says they hope to raise money for the South Dakota Community Foundation’s Coronavirus Response Fund.
Lalim says, “This is a time to light up businesses and do something fun with your family, not a time for large gatherings. Safety and your health must come first.”
More details will be posted on the “Let it Shine South Dakota” Facebook page as the date gets closer. He says, it’s more important than ever to show unity in communities during this time.
Everybody who is affected by the COVID-19 pandemic – all of us – can encourage people to get out for this campaign and support your local community and let your light shine,” says Lalim.
