Blue-Lit tree honors Gage County Winter Lights Festival founder

BEATRICE – The nighttime lights on the Gage County Coutthouse have come on for the first time this holiday season. In recognition of the late J.T. Thornburg, who started the project in 1987, a pine tree off the southeast corner of the courthouse will be lit up in blue light from now past New Year’s Day.

Gage County Board Vice Chairperson Emily Haxby said, "J.T.'s passion for the lighting of this courthouse have brought many years of joy for all those all of those...for this beautiful structure. In honor of his creativity and his commitment to the community, we will be lighting this tree tonight, in his memory."

The annual winter lights festival was held on the east lawn of the courthouse early Sunday night with the switch thrown for the lights on the pine tree at 5:30…then for the entire building at six p.m.

The Homestead Harmonizers sang at the event, typically held the Sunday before Thanksgiving. Kids got to see Santa Claus, who helped with the countdown to the lights coming on.

In addition to the blue-lit tree…a plaque on a concrete base remembering J.T. Thornburgh is now in place near the walkway….by the tree.

The winter lights festival is an annual event that is supported by private funding and assistance from the county and a local company with installation, maintenance and utility support.