| U.S.
Capitol Christmas treet to stop at Grangeville
“For more than 50 years, a Christmas tree has graced the West Lawn of the U.S. Capitol for the holiday season. The Payette National Forest in partnership with nonprofit Choose Outdoors will bring this special gift from Idaho to Washington, D.C. for the 2016 season, involving more than 25 communities along the way, including appearances in: * Grangeville on Wednesday, November 9 from 3:00-5:00 p.m., Grangeville Air Center, 111 Airport Road; * Lapwai on Thursday, November 10 from 10:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m., Nez Perce National Historical Park, 39063 Hwy 95; * Moscow on November 10 from 2:00-4:00 p.m., U of I Kibbie Dome parking lot, 709 S Deakin Street). The tree will be cut on Nov. 2 near McCall and prepared for the 2,000-mile expedition. With great fanfare, the tree will leave the Payette National Forest followed by a caravan of caretakers for the journey to the U.S. Capitol. 25 community celebrations are being planned throughout the tour, culminating with the official tree lighting in early December. Smaller companion trees also will be provided by the Idaho Christmas Tree Growers to decorate offices inside of the U.S. Capitol building and other sites throughout Washington, D.C., along with 8,000 ornaments designed and created by residents throughout the state of Idaho. Various festivities are planned at each location and include the Idaho Potato Commission and appearances by Smokey Bear and Joe Vandal. Activities are open to the public and free for all to enjoy. Associated costs are paid for in part by the U.S. Forest Service, while costs for the tree's transportation and special events are covered by in-kind services, donations and overall support both locally and nationwide, including major 2016 supporters KTVB TV 7, Idaho Potato Growers Association, Skybitz, Kenworth, Hale Trailer, Gary Amoth Trucking, Alaska Airlines, Seid Crane Service, Truckload Carriers Association, Eaton, University of Idaho, Meritor, Bass Pro Shops, and BrINC. For related news, events and tour information, and to track the tree cross-country, visit www.capitolchristmastree.com and on Facebook @ USCapitolChristmasTree and #capitolchristmastree. |
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