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| A shining sign of the season |
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| News | |||
| Written by Brandon Steinert | |||
| Wednesday, 02 December 2009 08:00 | |||
The bustle of children and their parents was complimented by live Christmas music as dozens of Paolans found their way to the Park Square for the annual Christmas tree lighting ceremony. The tradition came at a good time for the parents who wanted to unwind after a day of competitive shopping on Black Friday.  This year’s event held more meaning than in previous years, as the switch that lit up Paola Park Square was flipped in honor of Bob Harrington, long time sports, outdoors and farm reporter for the Miami County Republic. Harrington passed away Nov. 1 at the age of 83 after more than 60 years at the Republic. His wife, Marilyn, flipped the switch, after which the Square became illuminated by Christmas lights and brightened the faces of dozens of children waiting in line for Santa Claus. Harrington’s great grandson, Tyler Hennigh was the first to sit on Santa’s lap. He said he wanted a train. Carol Ayres of Paola has made it a tradition to visit the Square during the ceremony. She said it’s something you just don’t find in bigger cities. “This is great,” she said. “It brings people together to visit and I love this small town.” Youngster Kenna Cassel was ecstatic about the event and could barely contain her excitement over telling Santa that she wants a violin for Christmas. Katie Johnson managed to attend the event for the fifth consecutive year. “My favorite part is seeing my kids with Santa Claus,” she said. Her son, Sam, said he wants Spiderman toys for Christmas. Jamie Anderson also saw the tree lighting for the fifth straight year. She brought her two boys, Luke, 1, and Layne, 5, to ask Santa for what their hearts desire most this Christmas. Layne said he wants Optimus Prime and Bumble Bee Transformers. The festive event was sponsored by the Paola Chamber of Commerce and music was provided by the Paola High School band, with Madrigal singers and performances from Margo Rodewald. The stores surrounding the Square remained open for extended Black Friday hours and offered bargains to anyone who stuck around to pay them a visit.
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