National yule log nixed in Washington

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WASHINGTON, Dec. 24 (UPI) -- The manager of President's Park in Washington said the traditional national yule log was scrapped because the fire pit "didn't fit into the new site plan."

Scott Tucker, manager of the park on the Ellipse, said the 50-year tradition of a national yule log accompanying the National Christmas Tree was ended this year when the layout of the stage and seating at the park was changed by the National Park Service, The Washington Post reported Monday.

"The fire pit ... didn't fit into the new site plan," Tucker said.

Tucker said the piece of ground formerly used as a fire pit was used for a temporary seating area opening night, Dec. 6, when President Barack Obama and his family visited the park.