(SitNews) Ketchikan, Alaska - The 2019 Together Tree, an 18 foot Sitka Spruce harvested from Revillagigedo Island in Ketchikan, was delivered to Juneau on Monday. Thw tree will be displayed during the Governor’s open house on December 10th and through the holiday season. The tree’s arrival continues a three-year tradition of highlighting the special relationships between the USDA Forest Service, Alaska Native peoples, the State of Alaska and rural communities in southeast Alaska. The Sitka Spruce has been the official state tree since 1962.

Irene Dundas from Ketchikan Indian Community blessed the tree before it was taken last week, and children from Holy Name Catholic School and Houghtaling Elementary crafted ornaments in their classrooms to be displayed on its branches. Alaska Marine Lines provided transportation for the tree from Ketchikan to Juneau. 

Quoting a news release from the US Forest Service, the important relationships highlighted through this harvested tree effort enables cooperative management of forest resources for maximum benefit to the diverse needs of the public, communities, and industries. Collaboration also provides opportunities for scientific research, workforce training and jobs to the communities of Southeast Alaska.

Today, Governor Mike Dunleavy and First Lady Rose Dunleavy invited Alaskans to the Governor’s Annual Christmas and Holiday Open House at the Governor’s House, to be held Tuesday, December 10, from 3:00-6:00 p.m.

“We are thankful to all of those in Ketchikan and the officials with the USDA Forest Service that worked with the State to provide Alaskans with a great example of how we can all work together. Rose and I are proud to display this beautiful Sitka Spruce at the Governor’s Christmas and Holiday Open House and throughout the Holiday season,” said Alaska Governor Mike Dunleavy.

"Rose and I have been looking forward to inviting our Juneau friends and neighbors to come celebrate Christmas and the Holidays in the People’s House,” Governor Dunleavy said. “As we enjoy the holiday season with our neighbors and loved ones, we should take a moment and remember all of our first responders, veterans, and military members that are spending time away from their loved ones this season.”

The first open house was held by Territorial Governor Walter Eli Clark and his family on New Year’s Day 1913. The annual tradition has been held every year since, with the exception of two years during World War II.

More than 15,000 cookies are being prepared for the event, and more than 100 pounds of fudge and chocolate candies will be served. Members of the governor’s cabinet will serve hot apple cider and holiday treats to guests waiting in line outside the residence. Entertainers from local community and school groups will perform both inside and outside the residence.

Individuals with special accessibility needs are invited to contact Maxine Lucerno at (907) 465-3500, to arrange entry from 2:30-3:00 p.m.

Source of News:

USFS - Tongass National Forest
www.fs.fed.gov

Office of Gov. Michael Dunleavy
www.gov.alaska.gov

 

 

 

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