By Brittany Amalfi

Downtown Ashland is glowing once again, but this year, the lights hold a more sentimental meaning. Illuminate Downtown Ashland, the community art installation that has brightened winter nights since 2017, has returned with a new focus on the people who make the town shine. For the first time, residents were invited to nominate local “Bright Lights” — neighbors whose quiet dedication, compassion, and leadership help strengthen Ashland every day.

Seventy-two community members were nominated as 2025 Bright Lights, reflecting what organizers described as the heart and soul of the town. In total, a little more than 175 hand-colored lanterns were created by participants from the Ashland Senior Center, Ashland Girl Scouts, students, and families from Annmarie’s Dance Centre, Needham Bank, Ashland Is United, and the Ashland Extended Day Program.

Those lanterns are now on display in a glowing “light tunnel” at The Corner Spot, where residents can walk through and read the names and stories behind the nominations. 

Eleven downtown locations participated this year, including The Bagel Table, Ashland Historical Society at the Ocean House, Sub Zero Ice Cream Ashland, Nick’s Pizza, Blush Bouquets, Ashland Reiki & Wellness, Clover Road Brewery, and The Federated Church of Ashland.

Among the honorees is Makeda Keegan, recognized as a committed leader, visionary, and strong voice advocating for equity and inclusiveness. A member of Ashland Is United, Keegan was praised for her tireless work to ensure all residents feel seen and valued.

Another nominee, Isabel Harrison, was honored for founding Ashland’s food pantry and serving as the town’s first youth coordinator. Harrison also created a state-approved foster care program to help ensure vulnerable children could feel safe, supported, and loved.

The community also remembered Barbara Thoresen, who passed away in November. Thoresen was nominated for her remarkable 49 years of service as a crossing guard and her involvement with the Ashland Lions Club, where she received the Melvin Jones Fellow award. Organizers said she embodied generosity, service, and deep community pride.

Ashland High School nurses were also recognized as “unsung heroes,” applauded for their daily care and support of students.

Event organizer Chrissy Reynolds said the most meaningful part of this year’s installation was the connection. “Connecting with the community and with locations that foster love and appreciation for the arts felt really good,” she said. “Everyone was incredibly supportive, and it was wonderful to see students involved as well.”

The Ashland community has never been without the people who ensure that everyone feels welcome. And now, as residents walk through the tunnel and see the names of those who dedicate their time to Ashland, it offers a moment to recognize how many in-