Wednesday, November 30, 2016

State House Christmas Tree Lightings

Holiday festivities abounded at two tree lighting events at the State House yesterday. Governor Charlie Baker and Lieutenant Governor Karyn Polito helped lift the spirits of friends and families of fallen military members at the annual Gold Star Families tree lighting in Memorial Hall. The tree was decorated with ornaments and images of those who perished in service to our country.

This event is a partnership between the Military Friends Foundation, Gold Star Wives of Greater Boston, Gold Star Mothers of Massachusetts and Rhode Island, and the Massachusetts Department of Veterans' Services. Veterans Services Secretary Francisco Urena and Massachusetts National Guard Adjutant General Major Gen. Gary Keefe attended along with dozens of children and Santa Clause.

Later in the day, the State House Christmas tree overlooking the front lawn was illuminated. The revelers moved inside to the Grand Staircase for an open house which included eggnog, cookies, and other treats from Massachusetts growers and farms, carols sung by the Boston Children's Chorus, and season’s greetings from Lieutenant Governor Polito and Governor Baker.

The State House is open to the public Monday through Friday and I welcome you and your family to visit.