Congressman Scott Tipton Speaks at 2012 Capitol Christmas Tree Harvest

MEEKER, CO – Congressman Scott Tipton (CO-03) spoke at the harvest of the 2012 U.S. Capitol Christmas Tree today. The tree was harvested from the White River National Forest near Meeker, and will be brought to Meeker for a celebration on Saturday before embarking on a tour through Colorado and then across the country as it makes its way to Washington.

Remarks of Rep. Tipton as prepared for delivery:

What a privilege it is for Coloradans to be able to showcase our state’s natural beauty by providing the U.S. Capitol Christmas Tree—the People’s Tree—to our nation. Today and tomorrow we join together in celebration as we send-off this tree on an incredible journey throughout our state and across the country.

We are surrounded by one of the most beautiful and vast forests in our nation—a truly inspiring sight. This tree, one of many that make our state one of the most scenic and beautiful places in the world, stood out and was chosen for our nation’s Capitol. It exemplifies Colorado’s rugged individualism; a spirit that has served our state well as we’ve faced one of the most devastating wildfire seasons in memory.

While the devastation and ferocity of recent fires was unprecedented, Coloradans rose to the occasion. Firefighters from all around our state came to fight the blazes, and communities rallied to provide shelter and aid for their neighbors. Together we persevered, together we will rebuild, and together we will work to restore our forests to a healthy condition and reduce the occurrence of future fires.

The outpouring of goodwill and unity in the wake of the Waldo Canyon, High Park and other fires that impacted our state, is what this tree is all about. It’s about putting aside our differences, embracing what we have in common, and remembering what’s truly important. In that spirit, funds raised during the tree’s cross country tour will go to aid the recovery efforts for the High Park and Waldo Canyon Fires.

As we enter into this Holiday season, let us keep in mind those who are less fortunate, those who are struggling, and those who are apart from their loved ones. Make an effort to volunteer at a local shelter, provide a warm meal for a family in need, or send a thank you letter and care package to our troops overseas. We are truly fortunate in this country to be citizens of the freest and most prosperous nation on earth. We have a great deal to be thankful for.

I’m honored to be here today to take part in sending this tree to the U.S. Capitol, where it will shine as a symbol of unity, hope and goodwill, and serve as a reminder of our nation’s proud heritage.

2012 U.S. Capitol Christmas Tree Tour Colorado Stops:

November 6 – Rangely-Steamboat Springs
November 7 – Dillon – Glenwood Springs
November 8 – Grand Junction – Montrose
November 9 – Cortez – Durango
November 10 – Pagosa – Alamosa
November 11 – Colorado Springs – Denver
November 12 – Greeley – LaJunta

For more information on the 2012 U.S. Capitol Christmas Tree, visit www.CapitolChristmasTree2012.com.