Here’s an excerpt from a delightful story from the Kentucky State -Journal about the use of artificial Christmas trees at the Governors mansion because of the “longevity and ease of use”

“They came by the hundreds in lousy weather to see the ‘people's house,’ shake the governor's hand, admire two Christmas trees and nod to the season with a donation of canned goods.

The occasion was the annual Christmas open house at the Governor's Mansion. State employees say it's a tradition that's become important.

At 38 degrees, the weather was slightly chilly and some visitors were using umbrellas to ward off a mist. That didn't deter Farmer.

Ali McCreary, a Department of Education employee, agreed and said the weather didn't stop her from participating in the traditional open house.

Beth Sebastian, a landscape consultant, said the Christmas decorations this year incorporated a number of new elements, including light-emitting diodes, which are 80 to 90 percent more efficient.

"The first lady's initiative is to recycle, reuse and conserve," she said.

Other elements include a fresh-fruit theme, with grapes and pears on the Christmas tree and sugar fruit in the grand staircase.

"This year we have traditional decorations with a twist," Sebastian said.

Two 12-foot artificial Christmas trees are on public display in the first lady's salon and governor's receiving room. There's also one in the private section of the mansion.

Sebastian said artificial trees are preferable because of longevity and safety concerns.”

Paul Glasser, Kentucky State-Journal, December 11, 2008