On Thursday, Dec. 3, the city's 31st anniversary, about 125 residents gathered at Towngate Memorial Park to witness the Official Annual Lighting of the Landmark "M", which lies on Box Springs Mountain, overlooking Moreno Valley. For the third year in a row, the "M" ushered in the holiday season with a 6 p.m. light show. The evening really came together with the appearance of the International Space Station which streaked across the eastern sky, roughly heading toward the mountain. It appeared for about 4 minutes and the crowd cheered as it passed. Moments later, Santa and his Elves arrived in an entourage of motorcycles. These "Holiday Harleys" were adorned with colorful holiday lights and Christmas music playing as they arrived. The kids and the entire crowd cheered as Santa made his arrival. Santa was taken to his seat via the Red Carpet and the kids lined up to take pictures and receive candy canes. Because of a timer issue, 1/2 of the "M" lit up prematurely, 15 minutes early, but at exactly 6 p.m., the remaining lights came on, forming the "M". The crowd cheered again. We we're expecting about 20 folks and ended up with about 120 people. It truly was a beautiful night in Moreno Valley, because our own Moreno Valley Wind Symphony had a performance at 7 p.m., and many people left the park after the lightshow to attend the Symphony's performance. The "M" will shine every night through Jan. 4, 2016. The event was well-received and there are plans to possibly make it an annual event. Thanks to event sponsor, the Moreno Valley Noon Rotary Club, without whom all of this would not be possible. Also a special thank you to the City of Moreno Valley staff and Council. A very special thank you to Councilmember LaDonna Jempson and MVTV-3. Thanks to all of the behind the scenes people that donated their time, equipment and knowledge.

Landmark M Lighting Show Kicks off Holiday Season