LANSING, MI (WNEM) -
The search for this year's state Christmas tree has ended with the selection of the largest tree in the history of state Christmas trees in Michigan.
Typically the selected tree is 62 to 65 feet tall. The Department of Technology, Management and Budget (DTMB) has selected a 75-foot Concolor Fir from Jackson. The tree will be delivered to the Capitol lawn at 8:30 a.m. Saturday, Nov. 3 to serve as the 2012 state Christmas tree.
After taking nominations from all across the state through the end of July, the evaluation process began, resulting in the selected tree from Jackson. The tree will be harvested at no cost to the owners Nov. 2. It was donated by Anthony and Stephanie LaPorte, who are lifelong residents of Jackson.
The tree was first nominated in 2009, and recently became accessible due to the removal of other nearby trees. This is the ninth tree to be selected from the Lower Peninsula; the other 18 tress have come from the Upper Peninsula.
DTMB will bring the tree to Lansing with help from the Michigan Association of Timbermen and the Great Lakes Timber Professionals Association. The timbermen cut the tree and transport it to Lansing at no cost to the state. The DTMB crew will then work with Hi-Ball Company of Lansing, who volunteers a crane and crew to set the tree. Photo opportunities will be available during the setting of the tree Nov. 3.The lighting of the tree will take place on the evening of Friday, Nov. 16 as part of the 28th annual Silver Bells in the City celebration.
According to state officials, Silver Bells in the City is one of Michigan's premiere holiday events. It is highlighted by the very special Electric Light parade, which is immediately followed by the lighting of the state tree, and a spectacular fireworks display cascading over the capitol dome (weather permitting). For more information about Silver Bells in the City, please visit http://silverbellsinthecity.org/, or contact Mindy Biladeau at 517-485-3357.
Copyright 2012 (Meredith Corporation). All rights reserved.
