A Rhinelander family has donated the state's Christmas tree for this season.
Governor Walker announced this year’s Christmas tree for the State Capitol rotunda was donated by Brad and Elizabeth Kowieski of Rhinelander. Brad, Elizabeth, their sons, Brody and Hank, and Brad’s parents, Bill and Jane donated a 40-foot tall balsam fir. Brad planted the tree on Arbor Day in 1985 at his parents’ house when he was in fourth grade at Nativity Our Lord Catholic School in Rhinelander.
The Capitol Christmas tree must be a full Balsam Fir, approximately 35-55 feet tall. The tree is selected from donation requests on a first-come, first-serve basis if the tree meets all the requirements.
Governor Walker has requested the help of students from public and private schools across the state to craft and create ornaments to decorate the Christmas tree. The theme for this year is Wisconsin Sports.
In 2014 Dennis and Kim Schoeneck of Pelican Lake donated the 40 foot high balsam for the Capitol rotunda.
