Article by Erik Smith. Published on Saturday, December 03, 2011 EST.
by Washington State Wire
There were no protests in the Rotunda December 2nd as the annual Christmas-tree lighting ceremony kicked off Christmas season at the statehouse. Actually, it’s known officially as the “Holiday Tree,” the result of a rather long-running and divisive debate over holiday observances at the Capitol. Meanwhile the big week of protests at the Capitol during the first few days of the Legislature’s special session this year had prompted fears that the shouting and sign-waving might carry over into a ceremony designed to celebrate holiday cheer.
But no protests or political talk disturbed the caroling after all. Children from Olympia’s Kids in Koncert provided music, and Santa arrived just in time after the tree lighting to ask children whether they had been naughty or nice. The ceremony was sponsored by the Association of Washington Business, and the Port Blakely Tree Farms., an AWB-member firm, donated the 24-foot-tall Noble fir.
In the above photos, the first scene shows AWB President Don Brunell making opening remarks, and the second shows Gov. Christine Gregoire just after she flipped the switch to set lights ablaze.
“This is one of the best things we do all year,” Brunell said. “This season is about people helping other people. And the tree is a symbol of the spirit of generosity and goodwill that marks the holiday season. I am grateful for the generosity of our member companies and individuals who have contributed to this program.”
The 23-year-old AWB Holiday Kids Tree Program raised $23,000 from 133 member businesses and individuals to benefit needy children and families in seven rural counties statewide, including Grant, Grays Harbor, Lewis, Mason, Spokane, Thurston and Walla Walla. Donations will be distributed by 17 fire districts.
Your support matters.
Public service journalism is important today as ever. If you get something from our coverage, please consider making a donation to support our work. Thanks for reading our stuff.
