Choose Outdoors and Chippewa National Forest launch Capitol Christmas Tree 2014 effort

CASS LAKE — This week staff from Chippewa National Forest and members of the Leech Lake Band of Ojibwe gathered with Choose Outdoors, Inc. to further enhance their relationship as primary partners for the 2014 U.S. Capitol Christmas Tree project.

Working with the nonprofit organization Choose Outdoors not only helps give the project support by working with local sponsors and companies, but also adds experience. They were the primary nonprofit that successfully brought the U.S. Capitol Christmas Tree to Washington, D.C. in 2013 as well as 2012.

“Having the opportunity to work with the Leech Lake Band of Ojibwe and Choose Outdoors on the 2014 U.S. Capitol Christmas Tree has been a wonderful opportunity for our communities and will only further strengthen our ties,” said Forest Supervisor Darla Lenz.

More than two decades ago, the Leech Lake Reservation helped provide the nation’s Capital with a tree for the holiday season.

“Being selected to provide the Capitol Christmas tree is an honor for the Leech Lake Band of Ojibwe,” said Chairwoman Carri Jones. “It brings national exposure to our community showing the country our incredible natural resources. Continuing our partnerships with Choose Outdoors and the Chippewa National Forest will raise awareness for the community and the Band as we will be well represented at the Capital ceremonies by students from our Bug-O-Nay-Ge-Shig school and area youth.”

With Choose Outdoors meeting with various organizations, there was a perfect opportunity for all three partners to get together face to face. One of the highlights of the meeting was the unveiling of the official logo for the project. Highlights of the logo include important elements such as the bald eagle, traditional Ojibwe floral design, use of the Capitol building and a Christmas tree. Other unique features include the use of the floral pattern for the garland on the tree and the star atop representing Minnesota as “The Star of the North” — Minnesota’s state motto.

“This 50-year-old tradition, celebrating the spirit of the Christmas season, represents the epitome of partnerships that have been a hallmark of the US Forest Service,” said Bruce Ward, president and founder of the national nonprofit Choose Outdoors. “We are honored to be a private sector partner, joining forces with local volunteers, businesses and elected officials to make this the best People’s Tree ever.”

In the coming weeks, a website will be released for the 2014 U.S. Capitol Christmas Tree. There Minnesotans and others across the nation can learn about upcoming events in their community, learn how preparations are progressing, and how they can help and support this once in a lifetime opportunity.

Choose Outdoors is a 501 c(3) non-profit organization. Most if not all donations are tax-deductible. For inquiries and support for Choose Outdoors and/or the Capitol Christmas Tree contact: 

Bruce Ward – President, Choose Outdoors

bruce@chooseoutdoors.org 

303 917 1476