“‘Christmas on Broadway’ just keeps getting bigger every year – literally.
When Mudrack Tree Services delivered a 35-foot blue spruce to the plaza at Broadway and Beaver Avenue early today, it marked the sixth time the law firm of Shine and Hardin has organized the annual celebration as a gift to nearby residents – a gift the attorneys say has become increasingly significant.
‘Despite the difficult economic times, which place a burden upon families and businesses alike, the neighborhoods that border Broadway are fortunate to have local businesses that remain committed to maintaining and building the strength of families and neighborhoods,’ Shine said, referring to the many companies helping with the event. ‘This instills a lot of pride in the neighborhood. We see kids and families we don’t see all year long.’
The plaza is adjacent to the law firm’s office at 2810 Beaver.
‘It’s a lot of work to put up, but it means a lot for the neighborhood, and Broadway gets a lot of traffic. It’s a symbol of the season,’ Hardin said, noting the annual celebration costs the firm more than $5,000.
The tree, donated by Mr. and Mrs. Brad Wiems, is the tallest in the event’s history and was put in place today by a crane and crew donated by Harold McComb & Son Construction Co. Other sponsors include Indiana & Michigan Electric Co., Imagine Schools, Indiana’s NewsCenter, Lake City Bank and radio station Majic, 95.1-FM.
Christmas on Broadway will begin Nov. 19, but before that the tree will be decorated by Summit City Electric, Vision Scapes and Exquisite Designs. The tree will be adorned with more than 10,000 lights.
Next week’s tree-lighting will be preceded by live music performed by the Imagine School Chorus and the Holiday Jazz Ensemble. Food and beverages will be provided, and Santa, Mrs. Claus and their reindeer will also appear. Train rides for children will be available throughout the evening.
‘It’s such a nice gift for the neighborhoods,’ said Adrienne Maurer, president of the nearby Illsley Place Neighborhood Association.
Shine, who is celebrating his 30th year on Broadway and helped develop the $250,000 plaza in 2000, said the event is intended to give back to the community, not to promote him or his firm.
‘I would hope nobody picks a lawyer just because he puts up a tree,’ said Shine, who is also Allen County Republican chairman.
Newly elected U.S. Rep. Marlin Stutzman, R-3rd, who will take office next week, will light the tree, Shine said.”
Article published by the News-Sentinel on Nov. 12, 2010.