First Lady Supriya Jindal and Josephine Busse Decorate Christmas Ornaments

Today, First Lady Supriya Jindal and Artist Josephine Busse of Arboth in West Baton Rouge Parish visited Legacy Elementary School in Bossier City where they assisted students in decorating Christmas ornaments for national display. The Christmas ornaments will be displayed on the 2012 National Christmas Tree as well as the “Louisiana” tree, both of which are located in Washington D.C. Held annually since Christmas Eve 1923, the National Christmas Tree lighting has become one of the country’s oldest traditions. The event is co-sponsored by the National Park Service and the National Park Foundation.

First Lady Supriya Jindal said, “I truly enjoyed working with Josephine Busse and the talented students of Legacy Elementary. Not only is Josephine’s ornament design fantastic, but the students also did a wonderful job preparing these ornaments to showcase our Great State.” Mrs. Jindal continued, “It is truly an honor to be a part of this wonderful holiday event that features a talented Louisiana artist alongside our creative students. This Christmas ornament, highlighting our State’s Bicentennial, will truly captivate and impress all who see it!”

“Working with the children in creating these ornaments was a delightful experience,“ said Josephine Busse. “My inspiration for the design of the Louisiana Christmas 2012 National Christmas tree ornament comes from my love of the Fleur de Lis, which was declared the Official Louisiana symbol in 2008 by Governor Bobby Jindal. The reverse of the ornament is an image of the state of Louisiana, with a banner proclaiming our Bicentennial,” said Busse.

“We are very pleased that Josephine Busse and Legacy Elementary School will represent Louisiana in this year’s National Christmas Tree display,” said Neil Mulholland, President and CEO of the National Park Foundation. “This time honored tradition is the perfect way to kick off the holiday season.”

Each State was asked to prepare 24 Christmas ornaments. Twenty three ornaments will hang on the state Christmas tree as part of the National Christmas Tree display and one will hang on a Christmas tree in the White House Visitor Center showcasing each state ornament.

One additional ornament was created for showcasing at the Louisiana Governor's Mansion.

For more information on the National Christmas Tree lighting, please visit www.thenationaltree.org.