Projo 7 to 7 News Blog

Rhode Island's ornament on the official White House Christmas tree, designed by Barrington-based artist Mary Jane Begin, is now up for public view.

The ornament was among those unveiled in a special Christmas tree lighting ceremony held by First Lady Laura Bush at the White House last night. Sen. Jack Reed, Begin and her mother were among those in attendance.

"Rhode Island is known for its outstanding arts community and I am pleased that Mary Jane Begin contributed her time and considerable talents to creating this uniquely Rhode Island ornament," said Reed.

Begin's ornament features Rhode Island's state bird, the Rhode Island Red, ice skating against a night sky backdrop. The sky is the color blue found in the American Flag and is complemented by red and white strips at the top and bottom. The ornament has 50 stars with the largest star representing both Rhode Island and the Christmas holiday.

This year's theme is red, white and blue.

The official 20-foot White House Christmas tree, a North Carolina grown Fraser fir, is on display in the Blue Room of the White House. The tree will be displayed in the White House throughout the holiday season, after which, the ornament becomes part of the White House collection.

 Tags  Mary Jane Begin Rhode Island ornament Sen. Jack Reed White House Christmas Tree

Comments

Dan said:

Are these ever marketed to the Rhode Island populace?

Link | December 3, 2008 6:05 PM
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Michelle said:

I too, would like to know if this ornament is produced for the general public. If so, where can it be purchased?

Link | December 13, 2008 11:20 PM
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