Pachet Brook Christmas Tree Lit At State House

For their 12^th year,  has donated a majestic Christmas tree to the State House in Providence. It was unveiled tonight in the rotunda.

Gov. Donald L. Carieri and First Lady Suzanne Carcieri did the honors of flipping the switch and illuminating the 18-foot Douglas Fir that traveled from the rich soils of Tiverton, according to Press Secretary Amy Kempe. The tree is decorated with gold ribbons and features golden quahog shell ornaments and white lights.

"It's always a pleasure and an honor to give a tree to the State House," said Jean Helger Bento, owner of Patchet Brook Tree Farm, who was en route to Providence this afternoon for the ceremony. "It's exciting."

Bento and her husband Jay own one of the largest tree farms in the state, so naturally, when a larger-than-life tree is needed for such an occasion, the search narrows down quite a bit, she said. The 28-year-old fir was cut at the end of November.

The State House holiday celebration had musical performances by the Rhode Island Harp Ensemble and the 88^th Army Band. Santa Claus and Mrs. Claus made an appearance to pose for photos with children.

The celebration also featured the Heroes' Tree, which is part of a nationwide program to remember the sacrifice of the men and women serving in the military.