AIRLINE STUDENTS HELP DECORATE GOVERNOR'S MANSION

  This Christmas when Louisiana Governor Bobby Jindal and his family entertain at the Governor's Mansion, a bit of Viking Pride will be on display for all to see.

  Four of Airline art teacher Janice Melancon's Advanced Art students were chosen to decorate ornaments for the first family's Christmas tree.

  "I think it's cool because it's going to be in his mansion," said Junior Jordan Travis, as she painted a wooden snowman. "He'll be able to pick it up and see it's by me."

  Students were sent an array of wooden ornaments to decorate and were encouraged to show their creativity. They sketched their designs first before putting paint to wood. One of the artists incorporated Mardi Gras colors in her design. Another spelled "Louisiana" on a cut-out in the shape of the Bayou State, while Senior Michael McGaha painted a pelican and an ornament commemorating Louisiana's Bicentennial celebration.

  State Senator Barrow Peacock made a visit to Airline to see the students' handiwork and told how elaborate the Governor's Mansion is decorated for the holidays.

  "They have multiple Christmas parties, so a multitude of people from around the state will see these," Sen. Peacock said.