Guam's Christmas Tree Shines Brightly in Ellipse Near White House:  Local Handmade Ornaments Displayed Alongside Other States, District of Columbia, and Territories

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE – December 23, 2003 – Washington, D.C. – America’s longstanding tradition of lighting a National Christmas Tree has continued nearly unabated for 8 decades. The 80th Tree Lighting Ceremony took place in Washington, DC earlier this month with festival activities and holiday exhibits remaining open to the public through January 2004.

Over 12,000 lights brightly illuminate the 40-foot Colorado blue spruce which is located on the Ellipse near the Whitehouse. A model train display also runs under the giant spruce. Another 56 smaller trees representing all 50 States, District of Columbia and five territories line the surrounding “Pathway of Peace.” The trees dazzle with lights every evening from dusk to 11 p.m. through New Year’s Day.

Congresswoman Bordallo states, “It is wonderful that during this season of peace and goodwill, that the people of Guam have a tree that shines brightly for all to see and to enjoy in our Nation’s Capital. The ornaments provided by the various participants on Guam truly represent our island’s artistry and rich heritage.”

Guam’s Participation in the 2003 Christmas Pageant of Peace was coordinated by the Guam Council on the Arts and Humanities Agency with support from the island’s visual and folk artists, as well as the Guam Girl Scouts. According to executive director Johnny Sablan, “The Pageant serves as a wonderful opportunity to showcase our island’s legacy alongside 55 other communities that comprise America’s cultural fabric.”

During opening festivities, actress Shirley Jones served as hostess with former football great Merlin Olsen appearing as Santa Claus. Popular country band, Lonestar, joined the Voena Children’s Choir of Benicia, California, as well as Met soprano Twyla Robinson and the cast from “Mamma Mia” in performance at the ceremonies. Throughout the Pageant, musical performances will be offered nightly on the Ellipse stage from 6:00-8:30 p.m.

The Pageant is presented each year by the Christmas Pageant of Peace, Inc., and the National Park Services. For further information, visit the official website at http://www.pageantofpeace.org.

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Contact: Neil Weare in Washington, D.C., at (202) 225-1188 or Joaquin Perez in Guam at (671) 477-4272.