From Vancouver to Colville and from Oak Harbor to Walla Walla, as of today 126 Washington employers and families have contributed over $21,000 for the Holiday Kids' or Christmas tree at the state capitol. Employers and people from every walk of life donate to the tree and contributions range from $10 to $1,000.
For nearly a quarter century, the Association of Washington Business (AWB) has sponsored the annual Holiday Kids' Tree Project, which has raised a total of more than $320,000. The tree stands in the Rotunda of our State Capitol in Olympia for people to enjoy during December and best of, there is no charge and the donations pay for the costs of the tree and decorations.
This year the 24-foot Noble fir tree was donated by AWB member Port Blakely Tree Farms. AWB also donated 5,000 new LED lights for the tree. The Washington Forest Protection Association and its members provide the tree each year.
Gov. Chris Gregoire will light the tree at 6 p.m. next Friday with the help of Senior Airman Samuel Lovelady, a Patrol Leader from the 627th Security Forces Squadron/Joint Base Lewis-McChord, along with his wife Dana, their daughter Kaydance (age 4) and son Samuel (age 2). And no holiday tree ceremony would be complete without a special visit from Santa Claus. Tiny elves from Vancouver, WA, and Moses Lakes will assist Santa this year.
"AWB has sponsored the Capitol's Christmas tree since 1989 and it is one of the best things we do each year," said AWB President Don Brunell. Monies are distributed to representatives from rural fire departments to buy and distribute gifts and food to families in their communities.
If you would like to contribute, consider going online to make a donation. A visual history of the tree program is available online.
