South Kingstown Farm Donates Christmas Tree for State House

The following is a news release:

Governor Lincoln D. Chafee announced today that Secretary of State A. Ralph Mollis will light the 2014 State House Christmas tree on Wednesday, December 3, 2014 at 6:00 p.m. in the State House rotunda. The 15’ Fraser Fir was donated by Sarah Partyka of The Farmer’s Daughter farm in South Kingstown.

“I am happy to be part of such a wonderful holiday tradition, lighting the State House Christmas tree. I hope many can come out to join in the festivities this year,” said Mollis.

State House festivities begin at 5:30 p.m. with Santa and Mrs. Claus visiting with children from 5:30 p.m. – 6:30 p.m. Feel free to bring your camera! Light refreshments will be offered.

Also, local Rhode Island choruses and dance groups will be performing to holiday music, including the DAMHSA Irish Dance Foundation, the Venezuelan Rhode Island Performers, Prafulla’s Academy of Dance and Music, and the Grupo Dancas E. Cantares – Do Clube Juventude Lusitana.

The evening’s festivities will also include the lighting of the Heroes’ Tree in the State Room at 6:15 p.m. hosted by Secretary of State A. Ralph Mollis and Adjutant General Kevin McBride. The tree will be adorned with ornaments made by family and friends of military heroes to commemorate and honor their military service. Everyone is welcome to bring an ornament, either hand made or purchased, to hang on the tree.

In addition, culinary students from the Exeter Job Corps Academy have created and donated a large-scale gingerbread house to be displayed in the State Room. The students have also donated 200 Christmas cookies as part of the refreshments that will be offered.

Photo credit: Scott via Flickr