2012 Capitol Christmas Tree Campaign kicks off tonight

Every year the "people's tree" takes center stage at the various Christmas festivities in Washington, D.C., and this year that tree will be a Colorado native from the White River National Forest. Colorado was selected out of 155 national forests. A celebration starts tonight in Lakewood, with help from Rolling...

By Kelsey Outman

June 21, 2012

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Every year the "people's tree" takes center stage at the various Christmas festivities in Washington, D.C., and this year that tree will be a Colorado native from the White River National Forest. Colorado was selected out of 155 national forests. A celebration starts tonight in Lakewood, with help from Rolling Stone's keyboardist and award-winning tree farmer, Chuck Leavell.

The campaign is sponsored by Colorado Tourism, and encourages people of all ages to become involved to spread the word about protecting the nations natural forests. Leavell is leading the "Sing for the tree" contest; a national contest open to musicians of all genres that includes a trip to D.C. for a "Sing to Congress" event.

Choose Outdoors, the U.S. Forest Service and White River National Forest are all official partners for the 2012 Capitol Christmas Tree, and will be organizing events throughout the year to insure the best tree is chosen for 2012. Last year's winner was a stunning 118-year old, Sierra White Fir.

For more information visit: http://www.capitolchristmastree2012.com

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