Nickolson puts the sparkle in The Clugston's second annual Walk of Trees
(Talk of the Town file photos by Jennifer Zartman Romano) Building on the first year of Walk of Trees, shown above in 2010, Tammy Nickolson, below, hopes for an even more memorable event this year -- an activity where families can make lifelong memories looking at the beautifully appointed trees that grace the foyer of the historic Clugston in downtown Columbia City.
By Jennifer Zartman Romano
For the second year in a row, Tammy Nickolson of Whitley Crossings Neighborhood Corporation is rolling up her sleeves and decking the halls in the beautiful, historic Clugston on the Square in downtown Columbia City.
Using the main hallway and parlor areas, Nickolson creates a Christmas wonderland with lights, trees and wreaths donated by local businesses and organizations. 
"I am looking at maybe over 20 participants," Nickolson said. Additionally, there are two wreaths as well. This year, trees have been donated by Star Financial Bank, Orizion Real Estate, Habitat for Humanity, Carousel Hair and Spa, Pathfinder Services, Grable and Associates, The Watering Can Florist on the Square, A Treasure Garden, Passages Inc., First Steps, Showcase Enterprise, Interfaith Mission, Whitley County Humane Society, Whitley County Community Foundation, Whitley County Sheriff's Department, Crossroads Bank, LT Foundations Real Estate, Midwest America Federal Credit Union and the Janice Daniel Family.
Nickolson said she's hopeful a few others may be donated before the event opens Friday, too.
"I'm not sure how many people came through last year, but it was well attended," Nickolson said of last year's event. "It was great having so many other downtown events to give the public things to do with their families for the holidays."
"I would love to see more people venture out and enjoy a little bit of Chirstmas with the trees this year," she said. "My favorite part of this event is that it brings joy to people of all ages. It was neat last year hearing how folks would stop by to visit the trees before they left south for the winter and how the residents would go enjoy a warm cup of coffee and a good book under the glow of the trees after everything would slow down for the night."
Walk of Trees is part of the Columbia City Downtown Business Association's Downtown HolidayFest, a series of events aimed at bringing residents downtown for the holidays to make traditions and build memories to last a lifetime. The Clugston is located at 108 S. Chauncey Street in downtown Columbia City, across from the west doors of the Whitley County Courthouse.
Once a thriving, turn-of-the-century hotel, the Clugston now provides living quarters for low to moderate income residents.
During the Walk of Trees, for a free will donation you may purchase a ticket for a chance to win on of the beautifully decorated trees. Tickets will be available at the door. Proceeds from this event will benefit low and moderate income residents.
The Walk of Trees will be open to the public:
November 25 & 26 from 4 to 8 p.m.
December 2 & 3 from 4 to 8 p.m.
December 9 & 10 from 4 to 8 p.m.
The raffle drawing will be December 10, 2011, and you need not be present to win.
Nickolson feels it is important to have events like the Walk of Trees in downtown Columbia City. "I want something fun families can enjoy cheaply. I love seeing the community coming together on this event and the creativity is amazing," she added.
For the rest of the HolidayFest activities, click here where you'll find them on the Talk of the Town community calendar.