Beyond the lights

It was either a matter of the squeaky wheel getting the grease of a convergence of tastes, but this year’s tree is getting a design overhaul.

“We’re following each limb (with lights) — it’s a new look,” said Dan Brocklehurst, director of facility operations for the Michigan State Capitol Commission. “I’m not sure where we came up with the idea, but we had gotten some feedback. And it’s something new to commemorate the 30th anniversary of Silver Bells (in the City).”

Brocklehurst said the number of lights has doubled, from about 4,000 in recent years to about 8,000 this year.

“We’re using identical clear LED lamps, so it will be much brighter and it will cost less (to light),” Brocklehurst said. “It’s really going to be eye-catching.”

This year’s tree is a 63-foot blue spruce from Kingsford, near Iron Mountain in the Upper Peninsula. It arrived on Nov. 1 and the city’s forestry division worked to fill in any missing branches and give the tree a fuller look. Brocklehurst said the Lansing Board of Water & Light donates the time to hang the lights, which are sponsored by Granger, Silver Bells and the Capitol Commission.

Just don’t expect another monstrosity. At worst, you’ll have to shield your eyes from the glare, not the hideousness.

“Whether people like it or not, either way, this will definitely won’t look like a net,”Brocklehurst said.

The State Christmas tree will be lit at about 7:20 p.m. Friday, immediately following the Electric Light Parade as part of Silver Bells in the City. See page 16 for more details or go to silverbellsinthecity.org.