Verlie Feeney
The First Lady unveiled this year’s elaborate White House Christmas decorations in a video posted to Twitter late Sunday. A Gold Star Family Tree — adorned with golden stars and patriotic ribbons in honor of those who lost an immediate family member serving in the armed forces — greets visitors to the East Wing. The official White House Christmas tree, towering more than 18 feet tall, is decorated with handmade paper flowers representing the floral emblems of each state and territory. A close-up of one of the trees, shown in the video, reveals an ornament with the words “Be Best” spelled out in Scrabble tiles — referring to Melania’s anti-bullying initiative.
In the State Dining room, a gingerbread house on display features the South Portico of the White House and landmarks from across the country, including the Statue of Liberty, the Golden Gate Bridge, Space Needle, Mount Rushmore, the Alamo, the Gateway Arch and the Liberty Bell. “When I travel the country, I am inspired by the hard working people and families that I meet,” Melania said in a statement.
“No matter which state they call home, many Americans share a strong set of values and deep appreciation for the traditions and history of our great nation.
