MADISON, Wis. -- It has been a tradition at the state Capitol for years, but there is still controversy over what the state should call the tree commemorating the season in the rotunda.

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The Holiday Tree, as it is currently called, was lit by Gov. Jim Doyle and first lady Jessica Doyle in a ceremony Friday. The 45-foot balsam fir was donated by the Menominee Indian Nation, and its ornaments were created by Wisconsin elementary and middle school students to commemorate the year's theme of "Naturally Wisconsin."

But as far as its official name, an Assembly committee will vote this week on whether to change its recognized state name to the "Wisconsin State Christmas Tree."

Residents at the lighting had their own opinions on the tree's name.

"I think they should change it. That's what it is, a Christmas tree," said Leslie Wandler, a Wisconsin native in town from California to see the tree lighting.

"For us growing up, it was always called a Christmas tree, and I think that's what it should be called. But far be it for me to tell other people what it should or shouldn't be called," said Jen Granetzke, of Fitchburg.

Doyle said the contentious debate about the tree's name misses the point of the season.

"The idea of Christmas season is that you're not supposed to be picking fights with people. You're supposed to be finding a way to have peace on earth," Doyle said. "People should call the tree whatever they want to. In my family, we call it a Christmas tree and that's fine."

The measure had a hearing at the Capitol earlier this week and drew heated discussion from committee members and those who testified.

Democratic Rep. Marlin Schneider and Republican Sen. Luther Olsen sponsored the resolution to change the tree's name.

The measure goes before the Assembly Committee on State Affairs on Tuesday.