Payson Roundup

For the first time since the tradition began in 1970, Arizona has been chosen to provide the Capitol Christmas Tree 2009, which will stand in front of the U.S. Capitol in Washington, D.C.

In honor of this occasion, the Apache-Sitgreaves National Forests, Arizona Com-mission on the Arts, and Arizona Art Alliance have collaborated to host a statewide, juried art exhibition to select an official artwork to represent this iconic symbol.

The official Capitol Christmas Tree artwork will be presented to the chief of the Forest Service, in whose office it will be displayed for one year. The artwork will ultimately be exhibited in The Tree Gallery in the Yates Building as part of the national permanent collection.

“Arizona’s Gift from the Grand Canyon State” is this year’s theme. A panel of jurors will review submissions and select artwork for the Capitol Christmas Tree exhibition at the Arizona State Capitol during the month of October.

For details on submissions and eligibility, visit www.capitolchristmastree2009.org, www.arizonaartalliance.com, or www.azarts.

gov. Entry forms can be downloaded at any of the above Web sites.

Learn more about Capitol Christmas Tree 2009, its history, sponsorship opportunities and special events at www.capitolchristmas tree2009.org.