(Image source:  Wikipedia )


BY CHRISTINE KARSTEN

The centerpiece of the White House’s annual Christmas tree lighting ceremony has died.  WBNS reports.

“The National Park Service has their own work to do near the White House. Crews say the National Christmas Tree has died from transplant shock.”

The Washington Post interviewed a National Park Service spokesman. He says the weather this past year did not help.

“...In addition, he said, the tree was harmed by last summer’s record heat and winter’s unusual warmth.”

The tree was removed Saturday. But does this tradition end here?  MSNBC says — the celebration will continue.

“Park Service officials indicate that a replacement tree, also a Colorado Blue Spruce has been identified and will be planted in October. In plenty of time to be decorated for this year's lighting.”

The new tree will have to be impressive to escape the shadow, or shade, of the previous tree.  Fox News reports.

“It became the National Tree last March 2011 replacing the previous one planted in 1978.”

President Calvin Coolidge started the National Christmas Tree tradition in 1923.