Christmas Vs. Holiday Debate Gets Contentious At Capitol
Tree Called Holiday Tree Since 1985
Updated: 10:25 pm CST November 28, 2007
MADISON, Wis. -- A debate over what to call the giant tree in the state Capitol this time of year is becoming quite contentious.
TALKBACK: What Do You Think?Democratic Rep. Marlin Schneider of Wisconsin Rapids said it's a Christmas tree, and he's asking his colleagues to rename the tree the Wisconsin State Christmas Tree.Schneider said it was a Christmas tree until politically correct state officials changed its name to the holiday tree in 1985.Annie Laurie Gaylor of the Freedom From Religion Foundation said lawmakers shouldn't waste their time debating trivial issues and the name should stand.Her comments drew a rebuke from Rep. Joel Kleefisch, who told her she wouldn't be happy until they live in a Godless world.Some Assembly leaders said they hope the name is changed back in time for Christmas.The Assembly Committee on State Affairs held a hearing on the issue Wednesday afternoon.
TALKBACK: What Do You Think?Democratic Rep. Marlin Schneider of Wisconsin Rapids said it's a Christmas tree, and he's asking his colleagues to rename the tree the Wisconsin State Christmas Tree.Schneider said it was a Christmas tree until politically correct state officials changed its name to the holiday tree in 1985.Annie Laurie Gaylor of the Freedom From Religion Foundation said lawmakers shouldn't waste their time debating trivial issues and the name should stand.Her comments drew a rebuke from Rep. Joel Kleefisch, who told her she wouldn't be happy until they live in a Godless world.Some Assembly leaders said they hope the name is changed back in time for Christmas.The Assembly Committee on State Affairs held a hearing on the issue Wednesday afternoon. Copyright 2008 by Channel 3000. The Associated Press contributed to this report. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.
VIDEO: 
