Clinton Lights Christmas Tree For Last Time

By
Jesse J. Holland
January 7, 2006, 9:59 AM ET
2 min read

W A S H I N G T O N, Dec. 11, 2000 -- President Clinton lighted the national Christmastree for the last time today and, on the eve of his trip toNorthern Ireland, wished for peace for that region.

“I hope we can finish the business of peace there and helpAmerica to give a gift to the rest of the world,” Clinton saidbefore lighting the national tree. The Colorado blue spruce,transplanted in 1973 from York, Pa., was decorated with 125,000lights, accents of gold garland and large golden balls, with redribbons.

After lighting the tree, Clinton left Washington for his thirdvisit to Ireland and Northern Ireland, where he will spend the nextfew days getting a firsthand update on the troubled peace programhe helped negotiate.

A Last HurrahThis was the eighth year Clinton lighted the national Christmastree and attended the accompanying Pageant of Peace. The firstlady, Sen.-elect Hillary Rodham Clinton, and their daughter,Chelsea, also attended.

“Tonight, as we enjoy our last Christmas season in the WhiteHouse and the last time I’ll have a chance to be here at thelighting of the Christmas tree, we are profoundly grateful for thegift you and all the American people have given us, the privilegeto serve these last eight years, to live in this marvelous oldhouse, and to participate in wonderful ceremonies like this,”Clinton said.

Clinton asked Americans to remember people serving in the U.S.military who won’t be home for Christmas and to celebrate “thetrue meaning of the holidays by taking some time to give to thosewho need it most.”

Several thousand people crowded around the Ellipse just south ofthe White House to witness the 77th consecutive lighting of thenational Christmas tree and sing holiday carols.

The U.S. Navy Band accompanied young Welsh soprano CharlotteChurch, country singers Billy Gilman and Kathy Mattea and the castof Fosse in singing holiday songs. TV personality Al Roker,dressed as Santa Claus, was host for the evening.

Clinton and his family sat behind bulletproof glass during theoutdoor event.