Atheists Angry After Wis. Gov. Changes ‘Holiday’ Tree Back to ‘Christmas’ Tree
- Posted on November 8, 2011 at 3:36pm by
Billy Hallowell
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Wisconsin Gov. Scott Walker (AP)
Love him or hate him, Wisconsin Gov. Scott Walker is a man who sticks by his convictions.
He started by making Wisconsin more business-friendly, then took on the public sector unions. And now, the state lawmaker that has solidified a national name for himself is taking on atheists and non-believers — over the state’s “holiday” tree.
On Monday, Walker decided that he wanted to shake things up a bit. Rather than following recent tradition and referring to the (Christmas) tree that is placed in the Wisconsin’s Capitol Rotunda as a “holiday tree,” he’s changing course. For the past 25 years, lawmakers have referred to the evergreen that is decorated with ornaments and a star with this benign, uncategorized reference. Now, Walker plans to, once again, call the tree what it is — a Christmas tree.
From 1916 until 1985, the state did, indeed, refer to the tree as such. But in 1985, when lawmakers began getting nervous about government endorsement of religion, they began referring to it as a holiday tree. Walker, though, doesn’t want to continue doing so.
Photo courtesy of the Daily Mail
Rather than making a big deal out of the change, the governor simply put out a press release that referred to the holiday decoration as a Christmas tree. The release doesn’t note that any change in reference occurred. A portion of the document reads:
Today Governor Walker asked art teachers, parents, and youth all across Wisconsin to help the State of Wisconsin decorate the Capitol Christmas Tree. The theme of the tree this year will be Honoring 163 years of Wisconsin’s Veterans.
“As the holiday season comes, I am excited to announce that the Christmas tree displayed in our State Capitol will have homemade ornaments created by Wisconsin’s youth,” said Governor Walker. “I am hopeful we receive ornaments from all across Wisconsin so that we are able to showcase the diversity that makes up our great state. I invite all Wisconsin residents to stop by the Capitol and view our state’s holiday display.”
But when asked, spokesman Cullen Werwei confirmed that the decision was intentional. “It’s a Christmas tree,” Werwei said. “In all honesty, I don’t know what more to say about it.” In the Charleston Daily Mail, Don Surber echoed this sentiment, writing, “Republican Governor Scott Walker of Wisconsin just ended 25 years of stupidity.”
Not everyone agrees, though. The infamous Freedom From Religion Foundation, a group of atheists and “freethinkers,” doesn’t plan to let the change go unnoticed. Annie Laurie Gaylor, the group’s president, called the decision both rude and insensitive to non-Christians. Gaylor said:
“The reason that it was turned into a holiday tree was to avoid this connotation that the governor chooses one religion over another. It’s essentially a discourtesy by the governor to announce that. He intends that to be a slight and a snub to non-Christians, otherwise he would not do it.”
Considering the FFRF’s track record, it’s likely the group will be doing more than simply commenting on the matter. We’ll have to wait and see their next legal moves.
(H/T: Associated Press)
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Comments (633)
VaVetVoice
Posted on November 8, 2011 at 3:52pmMerry Christmas Guvna.
Report Post »GETLIFE
Posted on November 8, 2011 at 4:29pmMerry Merry Christmas is right!
What right do athiests have to steal the idea of a Christmas tree and re-name it “holiday tree” or whatever!? Let them create their own winter decoration tradition!!!
By the way, for all of you athiests out there– where do you think the word “holiday” comes from?
Report Post »LIBSALWAYSLIE
Posted on November 8, 2011 at 4:31pmHallelujah! Christmas is Back! God Bless Gov. Walker!
Report Post »Lets end the socialist PC crap EVERYWHERE!
gortex
Posted on November 8, 2011 at 4:32pmfinally someone stands up for whats right!
Report Post »hidden_lion
Posted on November 8, 2011 at 4:32pmAtheists should have to work on Christmas, since it offends them so much.
Report Post »19RANDY59
Posted on November 8, 2011 at 4:33pmThis is a Christian nation, time for all the loons to leave
Report Post »cessna152
Posted on November 8, 2011 at 4:34pmI am offended by the term “Halloween” so it should be removed. Valentines day offends me because it costs me money. See how stupid that sounds?
The one thing that I don’t understand are the private companies… most of their revenue is made at Christmas yet they won’t call is Christmas, even though 100% of the people that shop at Christmas celebrate Christmas. So when they refuse to call it Christmas they are offending those people who are buying their product.
People I urge you NOT to shop at places that refuse to acknowledge the term “Christmas”. For a list go to http://www.afa.net
Report Post »amrcn
Posted on November 8, 2011 at 4:34pmScrew the minority of little girl cry baby whining infidels. Go Walker….Go Tea.
Report Post »Blackhawk1
Posted on November 8, 2011 at 4:38pmHow can atheists be upset at calling it a Christmas when they don’t celebrate Christmas? If these atheists are really celebrating Dec 25th and just not calling it Christmas then they are the biggest hypocrites around. Every atheist needs to be working Christmas day.
Report Post »Peachy Keen
Posted on November 8, 2011 at 4:40pmThank goodness someone is finally standing up to the atheists! They claim it violates their rights, but it doesn’t seem to occur to these folks they are violating the rights of Christians. Bah-humbug! The atheists should move to another country where their claptrap is embraced.
Report Post »AvengerK
Posted on November 8, 2011 at 4:41pmMERRY CHRISTMAS Wisconsin!!!!!!!!
Report Post »jhrusky
Posted on November 8, 2011 at 4:42pmThe vast majority of Americans, and we Wisconsinites, call it a “Christmas Tree”. That, you liberal morons, is what democracy looks like!
WOLVERINES!
Report Post »AvengerK
Posted on November 8, 2011 at 4:42pmPerhaps atheists should put their money where their mouths are and not exchange gifts or take time off from work at Christmas time? Refuse to take December 25th off and stay at work atheists…I dare you.
Report Post »GETLIFE
Posted on November 8, 2011 at 4:56pmMajority does RULE! And Happy Holydays to the minority!
Report Post »the hawk
Posted on November 8, 2011 at 5:03pmAs a wise man once said,‘ IT IS WHAT IT IS’……..
Report Post »chazman
Posted on November 8, 2011 at 5:03pm… you Gawd cursed atheist‘s are pushin’ the outside of my envelope … tick me off enough and I’m gonna make you disappear. And you can thank God for it! Now go mind yer own business and keep yer mouths shut!
Report Post »John 336
Posted on November 8, 2011 at 5:23pmAtheists do have their own holiday. The Bible says in Psalm 14:1… “The fool hath said in his heart, There is no God. They are corrupt, they have done abominable works, there is none that doeth good.” Therefore the Atheists holiday is April Fool’s Day! They can decorate their trees however they wish.
Report Post »John 336
Posted on November 8, 2011 at 5:26pmAtheists do have their own holiday. The Bible says in Psalm 14:1 “The fool hath said in his heart, There is no God. They are corrupt, they have done abominable works, there is none that doeth good.” Therefore the Atheist‘s holiday is April Fool’s Day. They can decorate their trees however they wish.
Report Post »ACLUHater
Posted on November 8, 2011 at 5:39pmFree thinkers? These atheists need to be shown the door.
Report Post »KAdams
Posted on November 8, 2011 at 5:46pmChristmas has been believed to be a Christian tradition since the birth of Christ, duh… Even though it has absolutely nothing to do with the birth of Christ, and it is a strictly pagan amalgamation to get Christians to celebrate the birth of Tammuz….
WHY ARE THEY CELEBRATING IT IN THE FIRST PLACE? You’re atheists… go celebrate the birth of the first single cell organism when lighting hit that puddle of primordial ooze all those years ago. Oh, I’m sorry, you can’t figure out when it exactly happened? That’s too bad. Go shut yourselves away for the next 2 months, so you can avoid all the overtly ‘Christian labels’ that fly around at this time of year.
Report Post »HKS
Posted on November 8, 2011 at 5:46pmGet over it.
Report Post »Darren
Posted on November 8, 2011 at 6:05pmKadamz;
“Even though it has absolutely nothing to do with the birth of Christ, and it is a strictly pagan amalgamation to get Christians to celebrate the birth of Tammuz….”
I’m all for hijacking pagan celebrations and making them Christian ones. And Christmas is my favorite holiday of all.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O0sOB_7iip4
Report Post »anOpinion
Posted on November 8, 2011 at 6:15pmMerry Christmas Scott Walker !
Report Post »Columbobear
Posted on November 8, 2011 at 6:21pmSeperation of church and state… I am a Roman Catholic and I love Christmas as much as the next Christian. But this is not something that should be complicated. NO government building should have religious deceration in it at any time of year. Sorry, but this is suppose to be a land of tolerance! Therefore our government buildings should not show bias toward one religion or the other… I have never understood the whole issue…? Would you be upset if they started putting up menorahs in our government buildings instead of a tree? How do u think Jewish people feel about the Christmas tree… since it the christmas tree originated from German peagons and was adobted by German Christians to get the peagons to convert. I believe my tax money should be spent on something more important than a really big tree! But all and all this issue is the least of our worries in this country. DOWN SIZE THE GOVERNMENT …and then we’ll fix the rest later.
Bible Quotin' Science Fearin' Conservative American
Posted on November 8, 2011 at 6:26pmWhy would an atheist care? It’s not like the tree has jack crap to do with Jesus. I don’t see the problem.
Report Post »Morris
Posted on November 8, 2011 at 6:28pmThis will sure Pi– off Dictator Barack Hussein Obama and the “ACLU”!
“WE THE PEOPLE” are going to take back our America, From Dictator Obama and the “ACLU”,
and Obamas Mexican Muslim Loving Admin.
America, The Hell with this Corrupt Incompetent Obama Admin.,and their Washington DC,
“POLITICAL CORRECTNESS”,“WE THE PEOPLE” are going to take back our America!
AMERICA, DID YOU EVER WONDER ABOUT:?
1.Were will Dictator Obama be this next “CHRISTMAS”,Why do they leave the Whitehouse every
“CHRISTMAS”?
2.Why don,t Dictator Obama celebrate “CHRISTMAS” at the Whitehouse?
3. Why don,t Dictator Obama celebrate our American Christian holiday of, “OUR NATIONAL DAY OF PRAYER ” AT OUR WHITEHOUSE?(Obama has CANCELLED our Day of Prayer every year for the last 3/Years) WHY?
4. Why ,Does Dictator Obama celebrate the Muslim Holiday of “RAMADAN”,Every year for the last
3/Years in a row,And why do THOUSANDS OF MUSLIM COME TO WASHINGTON DC TO CELEBRATE THIS MUSLIM HOLIDAY WITH DICTATOR OBAMA, WHY?
America, “WE THE PEOPLE” Must STOP the Obama MUSLIM INVASION OF OUR USA!
Report Post »“CAIR” is a front for Islam and their Barbaric Muslim Satan Cult ,Which thanks to Obama ,they now have their main office in our Whitehouse!
“CAIR” and the Muslim Brotherhood and Saudi Arabia are working with Obama to destroy our
America,“WE THE PEOPLE” Must STOP THEM!
IMPEACH OBAMA, STOP THIS ISLAMIC MUSLIM CANCER THAT IS GROWING IN OUR AMERICA!
WAKE UP USA,THE DICTATORSHIP OF OBAM
Shiroi Raion
Posted on November 8, 2011 at 6:38pmHe’s doing what he believes is the right thing. He‘s one of America’s few good governors. My governor could probably be replaced by a kindergartner and no one would notice anything different.
Report Post »MIBUGNU2
Posted on November 8, 2011 at 6:40pmIf people want to see a “Holiday Tree”, go to the union hall !!
OORAH, Gov. Walker !! Merry Christmas….
Report Post »INOGAWD
Posted on November 8, 2011 at 7:00pmAtheists, GO TO HELL..!!!!!
Report Post »vtxphantom
Posted on November 8, 2011 at 7:17pmGo Walker. Here in Wi. he is wee-weeing a lot of people off. Best thing to happen in a long time!
Report Post »AOL_REFUGEE
Posted on November 8, 2011 at 7:39pmIt‘s their own fault that atheists’ winter holiday decoration/symbol is a horse’s patoot. It IS appropriate, however.
Report Post »crolic9
Posted on November 8, 2011 at 8:00pmIf they were truly atheists this would not bother them….. But it really does and they almost have a stroke… so deep down they must believe or they could careless…. So it also shows they have a conscious that I dare say the HOLY SPIRIT is convicting them… WOW I said it… I will be blackballed next… That’s good …If any of you are wondering what the Holy Spirit is it is part of the Trinity the Father, Son, and Holy Ghost…. You know the reason for the season… Christmas, things like that…. Well I need to get off my soap box…
Report Post »Keep right on going Gov….
Republican1990
Posted on November 8, 2011 at 8:07pmIf the atheist people don’t like Christmas Trees then why do they have them in there houses? Or why do the celebrate Christmas? To me christmas is about celebrating Jesus’s birthday and giving gifts to others as did the three wise men did!!! If you don’t like christmas three THEN DONT GO looking at one!!!! I think obama is the dumbass president; to date in history!!!! But I still acknowledge him as the USA president! I put my feeling aside for others, but others won’t do the same; well I’m tried of it.
Report Post »oitsugina
Posted on November 8, 2011 at 8:12pm@getlife…..you just gave me an idea….The businesses that force their employees to say “Happy Holiday” instead of “Merry Christmas”…..They should say “Happy Holy Day”!
Report Post »Greenwood
Posted on November 8, 2011 at 8:22pm@GETLIFE……….”What right do athiests have to steal the idea of a Christmas tree and re-name it “holiday tree” or whatever!? Let them create their own winter decoration tradition!!!”
The Christmas Tree has a pre-christian origin going back many centuries before Christ. In northern Europe pagans beleived it was a symbol of life, survival, and immortality because it stayed alive when other trees seemingly died in cold weather. Beliefs revolved around the eternal circle of life, fertility, death and re-birth. It survived the conversion to christianity with the custom of placing a Yule tree inside the house during the winter holidays. The Christmas tree is not of christian origin. [pagan]
Report Post »Sparky101
Posted on November 8, 2011 at 8:46pmAnnie Laurie Gaylor desperately needs to get a life. She‘s so confused and disoriented by the relaxing of our Country’s heritage and moral bearings, that she actually thinks she is being intelligent in her protest. She isn’t. Another lost soul in need of a Savior. So sad.
Report Post »Faith1029
Posted on November 8, 2011 at 9:39pmThank you Gov. Walker for taking a stand for Christians everywhere! You have guts and I admire that. Wish you were President.
Report Post »thepatriotdave
Posted on November 9, 2011 at 12:02amGovernor Scott Walker is a true Conservative!
Report Post »I salute him for his courage and dedication to a traditionally moral and just society.
JJ Coolay
Posted on November 9, 2011 at 12:09amHey ahh, KADAMS, I don’t know about you, but in my house we celebrate the birth of Christ on Christmas Day.
Report Post »The birth of Christ is it’s own holiday and not a hijacked one.
Maybe the tradition of the Christmas tree is hijacked, but whatever.
Christ may not have been born on December 25, but it’s the day Christians observe.
RossPoldark
Posted on November 9, 2011 at 1:31amO Christmas Tree! O Christmas Tree!
Report Post »How richly God has decked thee!
O Christmas Tree! O Christmas Tree!
How richly God has decked thee!
Thou bidst us true and faithful be,
And trust in God unchangingly.
O Christmas Tree! O Christmas Tree!
How richly God has decked thee! !
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Okie from Muskogee
Posted on November 9, 2011 at 1:43amSo sad on so many levels….
The Christmas Tree, Holiday Tree and Yule Tree are all the same thing. It’s Pagan no matter what you call it and it has Zero to do with Jesus, His birth, or worshiping God. In fact, it’s a lie saying it has to do with any of those 3. The only reason people say Christmas is for Jesus is to satisfy their flesh desire to act Pagan and like the World.
If it is acceptable to believe a self told lie that Christmas is about Jesus and practice it then the same logic says it is ok to believe a self told lie that it’s ok to smoke dope for Jesus, fornicate for Jesus, or kill for Jesus. It is the same thing.
Self honest people would call it a Pagan Tree. Our society chooses to lie to itself…..So sad….
Do you realize what Merry Christmas means? Another sad part of our society, it doesn‘t understand it’s own language’s roots.
Merry = high spirited, jolly, delightful
Christ = Messiah
Mass = Supreme Sacrifice; Destruction of victim
High spirited over the destruction of the Messiah……
If you are going to do something, at least know what and why you are doing something.
Matthew 12:36-37, “But I say unto you, that every idle word that men shall speak, they shall give account thereof in the day of judgement. For by thy words thou shalt be justified, and by thy words thou shalt be condemned.”
Report Post »SLOWBIDEN
Posted on November 9, 2011 at 10:02amColumbo-
Report Post »No where in the constitution does it mention the words“Seperation of Church And State”. You are taking the idea out of context. The “idea” of seperation of church and state means no church will have ruling power of the state. It wasn’t referring to calling a Christmas tree a Christmas tree. Now if you start getting taxed by the Christmas tree or a church than you will have a complaint. Untill then, get your facts straight and quit trying to impose your false logic on everyone else.
agameofthrones
Posted on November 9, 2011 at 10:53amWhat other holiday has trees? Duh. It’s not a holiday tree, it’s a Christmas tree. If you don’t believe in God, feel free to ignore the holiday but don’t try to make it into some atheist celebration. What do athiests have to celebrate anyway? Holiday is short for Holy Day so why would they want any of those?
Report Post »agameofthrones
Posted on November 9, 2011 at 10:57amNon-Christians have their holidays and are free to celebrate them as they see fit. Anyone have a problem with a menorah being displayed? We have a large Vietnamese population in our city and they put up decorations for their particular holidays as do my Hindu friends. No one has a problem with that either. The fact is, that the majority religion in this country is Christianity and has been since its founding. Athiests are not being forced to believe. Why let a sparkly tree get your knickers in such a twist. Just relax and find something else to focus on. You let these things bother you way too much. I don’t know anyone who was compelled to join the Christian religion because of a decorated tree.
Report Post »piper22
Posted on November 9, 2011 at 11:10am@Columbobear,
Then the FEDERAL government needs to remove Christmas Day from the list of GOVERNMENT ENDORSED holidays (5 USC section 6103). Until then, if the tree is put up and decorated this time of year, it’s a CHRISTMAS tree. Please name one other holiday that uses a decorated tree.
Report Post »piper22
Posted on November 9, 2011 at 11:16amAgain @Okie from Muskogee,
What you say may historically be true, but until 5 USC Section 6103 is REPEALED, Christmas is Christmas, and no other state or federally recognized holiday uses a decorated evergreen tree.
Report Post »NewDaddy2011
Posted on November 9, 2011 at 12:17pmI think Ben Stein hit the nail on the head with his 2005 remarks that have been circulating recently. http://www.cbsnews.com/video/watch/?id=1134772n&tag=mncol;lst;2
It is about time we of faith stand up and declare that freedom of religion is NOT synonymous with freedom from religion. Like it or not this country was founded on Christian principles and were that not the case the good ole’ US of A would not have grown to be the nation it is (or at least was). If an individual wants to remove God from their life, that’s fine. It’s their choice, but when they try to remove Him from my life by force, fear, or policy, that is where I draw the line. I, for one, want and need divine influence in my life and I defy anyone to take that away from me.
Report Post »Ankylosing
Posted on November 9, 2011 at 12:20pmI remember in 2007 or so, when I worked for wal-mart. That was the holiday season when they tried to take out “Christ”, from Christmas. My manager, a real young girl, maybe in her late 20′s, would get onto me, never very harshly, about saying, “Merry Christmas”, even around customers. I still did it anyways, she eventually just stopped, telling me to stop. But it was a pretty weird experience.
Report Post »Just pure silliness, really. If I remember correctly, Target finally put Christ, back in Christmas because they turned all of their advertising into “winter holiday” and crap like that. Their sales plummeted. So wal-mart took Christmas back too, that’s when she stopped getting onto me about it.
InversionTheory
Posted on November 9, 2011 at 12:23pmAnd so begins the annual struggle…
As an atheist, the only thing that irks me about governments putting up stuff like this is that they’re using my tax dollars for it, but given the absurd things they regularly waste my tax dollars on, a nice Christmas tree doesn’t seem very important. So if the tree, decorations, electricity were all donated to the state, the worst you could get from me is a slightly disapproving grimace. I don‘t think there’s anyone out there who’s gonna be convinced to become a Christian because of the AWESOME Christmas tree in the statehouse.
Calling it a Holiday tree is a cop out. Is anyone fooled by that? Or do we just smile and pretend it’s not what it is?
I noticed a few folks wondered why Atheists put up Christmas trees. I can only speak for myself and I do it because it’s a fun family tradition. I put up my tree, I sing Christmas carols and I’ve even been known to go to a Christmas Eve midnight candlelight church service at my local Lutheran church (that’s the denomination I was raised in)… I just don’t believe in any of it. Willful suspension of disbelief to have a good time. It’s the same thing you have to do to watch a lot of movies because the events as depicted are not possible.
Report Post »jkjk
Posted on November 9, 2011 at 1:08pmMERRY CHRISTMAS !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Good job governor Walker !!!
Report Post »boncarbo7
Posted on November 9, 2011 at 2:48pmI think everyone should put a Christmas Tree in their yard, fully decorated, and while we are at it, let’s buy that atheists a small but remembered present, a LUMP OF COAL. These people just tick everyone that believes in Christmas off, me included.
Report Post »sy212
Posted on November 9, 2011 at 4:13pmHow else would Obama be able to collect his 15 cent tax….can‘t collect if it’s called ‘Holiday’ tree
Report Post »Jim
Posted on November 9, 2011 at 4:33pmWisconsin Gov. Scott Walker for President… the only one with guts and a love for America. I never thought I would see a day when I realized we have so many people in this country that lacks intelligence. They want the Government to run their lives… they want the Government to be their DADDY! Grow-up and use your heads…
Report Post »janedough1
Posted on November 9, 2011 at 4:34pmDon’t they remind you of the witches army in Narnia? http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z0sgIdm2Fao&feature=related
Report Post »American Liberty
Posted on November 9, 2011 at 4:43pm“By the way, for all of you athiests out there– where do you think the word “holiday” comes from?”
Hahaha…hilarious! These folks are amusing if nothing else. I shout it from the top of my snowy roof…BRING BACK CHRISTMAS and stop ruining my life!!! Have a nice day :)
Report Post »LibertarianForLife
Posted on November 9, 2011 at 5:00pmRandy, you are calling everyone who is NOT christian a loon, correct? The group that believes god’s way of saving humans is sending a “son” to bronze age palestine, where most were illiterate, and then having him tortured to death? When you realize why we dismiss every other imaginary friend, you will understand why we dismiss yours.
Report Post »riverdog1
Posted on November 9, 2011 at 5:42pmim a atheist and i don’t care what they call it as most athiest do. this little group of people don’t represent the majority or even a teeny tiny sliver.
Report Post »Therightsofbilly
Posted on November 9, 2011 at 6:44pmHey OKIE,
I want to thank you for your assistance in thwarting my troll / clone / impersonator / jerk.
We have had our differences in the past, but you are a man of honor.
Much thanks again.
Report Post »pittysbad
Posted on November 9, 2011 at 6:45pmwe Christians have Christmas, complete with our Christmas trees, while the athiests have their own holiday – April fools day. “For a fool says in his heart there is no God” they are just lacking decorations………..
Report Post »McKenzie Davis
Posted on November 10, 2011 at 1:47amIts a Christmas Tree!!!
I love Christmas because I am a Christian!!!! Its my belief.. its how I was raised…. I am walking on in my belief.. Way to go Gov stick to yer Guns!
Report Post »dmar003
Posted on November 10, 2011 at 2:01amOur country was built on Christian beliefs. For those Atheist that celebrate Christmas, or the ones that go to church because “it is a tradition in my family” then if that is true doesn’t that make you a hypocrite to your own belief ? If you are employed tell your boss that you do not believe in Christmas, that you will work that holiday.
Report Post »and for you other people (yes I know it is a little too early) HAVE A MERRY CHRISTMAS,
Thank you Gov Walker for standing up to these idiots…..
lillymckim
Posted on November 10, 2011 at 8:22amLove him or hate him, Wisconsin Gov. Scott Walker is a man who sticks by his convictions.
I love Gov.Scott Walker!
Report Post »GodIsDead
Posted on November 10, 2011 at 1:14pmAll the previous comments just prove how christianity is a vessel for ignorance and stupidity. If any of you knew anything about the history of your religion, you’d realize that “christmas” was a perversion/usurping of the pagan festival Yule. The tree was a pagan symbol. So, by saying “Don’t take christ out of christmas“ or ”This making things right”, you’re only showing how dumb and hypocritical you are. This is NOT a christian nation. Keep your religion out of politics and educate yourself beyond that filthy book you call the bible.
Crusade
Posted on November 14, 2011 at 1:51pmIn my lifetime, people of all denominations have enjoyed the beauty of a Christmas tree, but it IS a Christmas tree (pagan symbology aside). Jews don’t have a tree at Hanukkah. Muslims don’t have a tree at Ramadan, and Kwanzaa festivities don’t have a tree either. Athiests have no reason to have a tree, it’s just December to them… So what’s the big deal? Kudos to Gov. Walker!
Report Post »HotFixIt
Posted on November 8, 2011 at 3:52pmWay to go! It is their choice to let it bother them. I feel insulted every time I hear the terms “Holiday Tree” or “Winter Festival” … this political correctness stuff is driving me absolutely insane. It is so uplifting to finally see some sanity returning to our country. Bring it ON!!!
Report Post »lodgerat
Posted on November 8, 2011 at 4:12pmGod Bless the Gov and Merry Christmas. Last year I went to Wal-Mart and as I was getting ready to check out I wished the check out clerk Merry Christmas and she said Happy Holidays. I repeated Merry Christmas and she informed me she was not allowed to say Merry Christmas so I left all my items on the check out counter and walked out. A small protest at best but I felt better.
Report Post »red_white_blue2
Posted on November 8, 2011 at 4:34pmAgreed. Thank God! Can we get a petition started to ask this man to run for president! Please! He strikes me as even more honest and trustworthy than Christie.
Report Post »GETLIFE
Posted on November 8, 2011 at 4:40pmLODGERAT, great idea!
Hey Wal-Mart– what do you think your customers are buying–“Holiday” presents?
Report Post »beebacksoon
Posted on November 8, 2011 at 8:27pmHotFixIt
Report Post »Everyone else can get away with being “offended” but Christians. “Holiday” can be any day the federal gov’t designates.
CHRIST is the offending name in Christmas. Does His name burn your eyes, make you sweat, or shake? Good. Be an atheist if that is your desire, but you have no control of the believers in Jesus Christ. Christians: Know who you are and who you pray to.
dutchy
Posted on November 9, 2011 at 12:03pmYes, God bless Gov. Walker!
Report Post »Dismayed Veteran
Posted on November 8, 2011 at 3:51pmWalker has industrial grade clangers. Good for him. It is Christmas nothing else.
Report Post »encinom
Posted on November 8, 2011 at 4:05pmWalker knows his political caree is over come January.
Report Post »000degrees
Posted on November 8, 2011 at 4:30pmChristmas transcends “careers”……….
Report Post »LIBSALWAYSLIE
Posted on November 8, 2011 at 4:34pmENCINOM= complete moron, blithering idiot, mindless sheep, liberal low life.
Report Post »Iron Kurtain
Posted on November 8, 2011 at 4:40pm@Encinom
lol… alright. what will you do if he gets re-elected? I will send you a very large box of tissues… HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA!!! You are going to need them.
Report Post »selloursouls
Posted on November 8, 2011 at 4:40pmEncinom, what has happened to you? You used to put a lot more effort into your job now you seem to be getting bored. You are about the only troll that I could appreciate, now I am losing respect in your work. Come on buddy, keep the faith, Soros has to be paying you enough, I mean liberals are all about sharing the wealth, right?
Seriously though, your arguments have really weakened over the last, I don’t know, two or three months. Your one line shots just don’t have the gravitas that your older comments sometimes exuded. But don’t give up I know you have it in you to improve.
Report Post »AvengerK
Posted on November 8, 2011 at 5:06pmLOL…yes ENCIDIOT of course…you lefty dolts were saying the same thing during all those recalls you tried in Wisconsin…you failed then, you’ll fail again. You’re just whistling past the graveyard ENCIDIOT..I actually feel sorry for you.
Report Post »TEXASGRANNY73
Posted on November 8, 2011 at 5:17pm@Encinom But Christmas won’t be. Merry Christmas even unto you. See what Christmas spirit does? People are happy. You seem so unhappy all the time.
Report Post »MIBUGNU2
Posted on November 8, 2011 at 6:56pm@ ecinemon
Report Post »Even Peanuts knows it a Christmas Tree…
O Christmas Tree, O Christmas Tree, O Christmas Tree..
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0nYwWY1mNRQ
jaylew
Posted on November 8, 2011 at 7:52pmEncinom….you prove to me…that you… throughout your entire working life have never accepted in your paycheck the money from what might be referred to by normal people as a “paid Christmas holiday.”…if you prove that you have never accepted a dime from any of your employers on that day…….then I will listen to your opportunistic atheistic rants and injections on this forum….otherwise shut up…by you taking one penny for one second of Christmas Holiday pay from one employer in your atheistic existence…then that makes you a hypocrite of the worst sort…and in no position to comment on what a tree is called…much less where and when. We all know you gladly accept and spend your Christmas portion of your paycheck…either the premium pay if you work or the holiday pay if you don’t…..so when it comes to this conversation and this thread…that makes you a whore…and the last time i checked…whores and trees are two completely different animals.
Report Post »MHP
Posted on November 9, 2011 at 1:21amencinom
Go chop your head off with an ax
Report Post »FoxholeAtheist
Posted on November 10, 2011 at 9:12amI can’t wait for 2012. Goodbye to that.
Report Post »BuckHunter
Posted on November 8, 2011 at 3:51pmGood to see some common sense. Good job!
Report Post »CatB
Posted on November 8, 2011 at 4:06pmIt is a CHRISTMAS TREE .. you athiests need to get over yourselves .. don‘t like it don’t look .. as for me .. I am also putting a Nativity in my front yard !!!
Report Post »kaydeebeau
Posted on November 8, 2011 at 5:13pmexactly which “holiday” other than Christmas is a tree historicaly decorated???? It is a Christmas Tree for crying out loud
Report Post »KAdams
Posted on November 8, 2011 at 5:54pm@Kaybeebeau
Don’t make fun… I put up my 4th of July tree this year. And my Cinco de Mayo tree, and I‘m decorating my Veteran’s Day tree as we speak!
Report Post »commonsenseguy
Posted on November 8, 2011 at 3:51pmif you don’t like it, don’t go there or look at it, i am sick and tired of a few being able to force the majority to comply with their beliefs, what ever happened to majority rules, o my bad,i forgot we live in a communist rule pc, bull crap society.
Report Post »satostud
Posted on November 8, 2011 at 3:53pmCouldn’t have said it better myself.
Report Post »SANE_I think
Posted on November 8, 2011 at 5:36pmIam not bothered by Atheist. I am insulted by Atheist that try and tell me I am stupid, and prevent me from doing as I see fit.
Report Post »riverdog1
Posted on November 9, 2011 at 5:46pmtree is a pagan symbol. wal mart is a republican owned. grow up
Report Post »jb.kibs
Posted on November 8, 2011 at 3:50pmhere’s an idea. Don’t go there.
Report Post »whatthecrazy
Posted on November 8, 2011 at 4:10pmHeres another idea How about SCOTT WALKER for PRESIDENT cause the man is not afraid to stand up for america and our rights……………..
Report Post »000degrees
Posted on November 8, 2011 at 4:31pmPresident Walker……..has a nice ring to it..
Report Post »His_Way
Posted on November 8, 2011 at 4:54pmGov. Walker Thank You for your decency and leadership, you are an inspiring light much needed and appreciated in these chaotic times. Their holiday tree with NO meaning no more.
Report Post »SUMTHINSTINKS
Posted on November 8, 2011 at 3:50pmThis country need more people like Scott Walker! It’s time the majority matters in this country instead of the minority!
Report Post »bboatmanable
Posted on November 8, 2011 at 3:55pmExactly right! My favorite part of this whole hypocrisy is that all these “atheists” and “free-thinkers” won’t hesitate to take a day of for Christmas when the day arrives. If they were that offended, then they would work right through it as if it did not exist….yeah, we’ll see that happen. LOL
Report Post »leklogic
Posted on November 8, 2011 at 4:09pm@bboatmanable.
Report Post »please get your facts straight about Christmas. http://www.ancient-future.net/christmasdate.html
bboatmanable
Posted on November 8, 2011 at 4:23pm@LEKLOGIC
A very interesting article, that I thoroughly enjoyed and I will be researching more myself because of it…. but no way to prove any of it realistically, since there’s not exactly a birth certificate (and it doesn’t matter). As I stated before I believe Christ was probably born closer to July (since that is when the Romans typically called for the Jews to make the trip to wherever they were born for the census), but regardless of the reason, we celebrate it on December 25 (July – December = very adequate time for “wise men” (magi) to travel from Babylon (the east). The point is we do and that’s all that matters. Not, meaning to sound mean or argumentative here either, just stating my point of view. God Bless.
Report Post »pilgrimhere
Posted on November 8, 2011 at 5:16pmLEKLOGIC AND BBOATMANABLE
The article is linked in reference to “facts about Christmas” and is virtually all opinion. I would argue that David Bennett (author) is incapable of discovering relavent facts due to the paradigm of his religeon. His conclusion aserts that 25Dec was influenced by pagan custom and equally that Catholics have no problem “borrowing some practices and concepts from pagan festivals.” He is consistantly asking the wrong question! But if a given day that Messiah should be born had any significance, that would be determined by YHWH, God and not religeos people. Try asking God what His calender is first of all (not the Gregorian to be sure). Then ask God what the actual significance of HIS appointed times is (Lev 23).
For those who may be interested in a thorough examination of the important questions, the following is a wealth of research with logical conclusions: http://futurehistory.yadayahweh.com/Future_History_Foreword.Prophecy
I applaud S. Walker for standing up for what he believes in.
Report Post »FreedomFighter44
Posted on November 8, 2011 at 3:50pmProud to have Scott Walker as my Governor! He actually has a backbone and isn’t going to take anything from anybody!!
Report Post »encinom
Posted on November 8, 2011 at 4:06pmYou have until his recall to enjoy the tin pot tyrant Walker. Once recalled the Kochs will have no more use for him.
Report Post »kentuckypatriot
Posted on November 8, 2011 at 4:18pmI don’t care what idiot encinom says…. good for Gov Walker and your state!! Oh, and by the way.. MERRY CHRISTMAS TO YOU!! ( I know it’s early, but I couldn’t resist )!
Report Post »marine249
Posted on November 8, 2011 at 4:36pmencinom
Report Post »are you not sgt. wed from msdnc
Lucy Larue
Posted on November 8, 2011 at 5:59pmENCINOM,
Dear God in HEAVEN! Get over yourself.
Do you realize how asinine your comments read?
Address the ISSUE just once. That would be so refreshing.
This thread is discussing Governor Walker’s common sense decision to once again call a Chistmas Tree a Christmas Tree. That is what it is and always has been…..A CHRISTMAS TREE!
The issue is pretty simple.
Annie Laurie Gaylor finds Walker’s decision rude and insensitive. Hmmmm.
She is a member of a narcissistic, publicity seeking non believing minority that has , over the years , been completely, and callously “RUDE and INSENSITIVE” to the MAJORITY of citizens who are NOT narcissistic,publicity seeking non believers.
Tuff noogies for Annie and all the others in her group. It IS a CHRISTMAS TREE! NON?!
If you are angry and call a rose a SKUNK CABBAGE, is it not still a beautiful rose?
The United States is a Judeo/Christian Nation! Let Annie and her group EMIGRATE to a country that is more sensitive to their ATHEIST belief in NOTHING!
I am weary of your ilk Encinom. TRUE DIVERSITY is TOLERANT, not INTOLERANT!
The people you are defending with your asinine talk of “TIN POT WALKER and the KOCH BROTHERS is just propaganda straight up!
Read “The Christmas Carol”. Read “The Grinch”. Read “The Little Fir Tree”.
That’s just for starters!
Oh…,in advance, MERRY CHRISTMAS Encinom.
MERRY ,MERRY, CHRISTMAS!
There is nothing more beautiful than a CHRISTMAS TREE!
Report Post »FreedomFighter44
Posted on November 8, 2011 at 7:28pm@Encinom: I’m sorry you feel that way. Let me guess you are a public union worker who voted for Walker(or maybe you didn’t), and when he made you actually contribute to the failing pension system you got pissed and now you are going to recall him. I‘m sorry but I believe that the people shouldn’t have to pay for your pension.
@KentuckyPatriot: Thanks, and a Merry Christmas to you! haha
Report Post »Failsafe
Posted on November 8, 2011 at 8:27pm@encinom
Dear Santa,
Pleases bring Encinom the failed socialist state for the winter holiday tree festival season, either that or a new brain.
Thanks,
Failsafe
Report Post »MHP
Posted on November 9, 2011 at 3:14amencinom
Teachers are overpaid.
Report Post »Walker will survive recall
MadisonSweetheart
Posted on November 9, 2011 at 12:42pmEncinom… THANK YOU! Finally someone here who actually knows what state Wisconsin is in… especially in the capitol. Face it people: Walker’s approval rating here in Wisconsin is less than 40%… and it’s still dropping! It doesn’t matter what you think as a TEA party member outside of the state, and if you are a member with Wisconsinite status go ahead and vote for Walker to stay in office. I for one shall be one of the MANY names on the petition to kick him out… The only reason he got into office in the first place was because a lot of the people who voted for him were misinformed. I for one never wanted someone who doesn’t even have a college education running my state… God forbid those who think he’s going to be the next president… you have got to be kidding.
Report Post »MadisonSweetheart
Posted on November 9, 2011 at 12:58pmmy mistake. Approval is less than 50%.. slip of the finger… still in the minority none the less.
Report Post »Snowleopard {gallery of cat folks}
Posted on November 8, 2011 at 3:49pmWhere and when will we finally draw the line in this need to be PC across the board to not offend anyone? Here is an example of how I can declare offenses based on a christmas tree:
I am offended by the atheists declaring my faith null and void.
I am offended by the changing of a religious icon changed into a pagan icon.
I am offended by the eco fanatics who howl at the cutting down of a tree.
I am offended by the idiots who seek to deny me being able to display a nativity if I so chose.
I am offended…add whatever you want.
Its that easy.
When we try to please everyone and make everything the same, we have achieved maximum offense and the end of our nation.
Report Post »Mainer forever
Posted on November 8, 2011 at 3:53pmWell said!!!
Report Post »commonsenseguy
Posted on November 8, 2011 at 3:57pmi second that motion, we all know that there will always be those who will never get along,never comply but these liberals think they can force people into being the same, these idiots either don’t understand or to stupid to to see that we are not all the same, we all don’t wear the same cloths,eat the same food,live in the same box, drive the same car,believe in the same government religion,and that there will always be those who are just stupid,bad and lazy,and that there will always be those who are offend by some thing or some one.
Report Post »The Scarecrow
Posted on November 8, 2011 at 4:30pmRight you are. All these people going around spouting off about diversity and they want everything to be the same for everyone. Very little common sense around any more. Mostly idiots spewing PC BS.
Report Post »BillzPen
Posted on November 8, 2011 at 4:32pmHey Snow Leopard,I ditto everything you said and I pray every day that our nation will get back to
Report Post »praising God allmighty for not turning us all into salt. A dysfunctional president breeds dysfunctional drones.Athiest’s have a holiday….it’s called : “April Fool”.
This_Individual
Posted on November 8, 2011 at 4:47pmNot every ahteist is a proslytizer.
Report Post »Stoptheblather
Posted on November 8, 2011 at 5:30pmI agree 100%!
Report Post »Stoptheblather
Posted on November 8, 2011 at 5:31pmMay I use this? Well stated, Gallery of Cat Folks!
Report Post »Drum Man
Posted on November 8, 2011 at 3:49pmJan Brewer did the same thing in Arizona after Uncle Janet named it a “holiday tree” when he was Guv here. Way to go! Good for you Scott!
Report Post »familyofsix
Posted on November 8, 2011 at 4:12pmLove it, lol.
Report Post »searching for the Truth
Posted on November 8, 2011 at 3:49pmFunny!
Report Post »blondenblueeyed
Posted on November 8, 2011 at 3:49pmSo the athiests get their panties in a wad over Christmas….. What’s the downside to this?
Report Post »spirited
Posted on November 8, 2011 at 4:05pmHow about:
To those who take offense or protest get
-a big sack of coal that’ll be illegal to burn; when they’re cold, or cannot afford wood or gas or oil.
-no cookies & milk cuz sugar, butter and other ingrediants aren’t healthy, and milk belongs to cows.
>Move, or live and let live.
Report Post »INOGAWD
Posted on November 8, 2011 at 7:16pmTO all athiests, ENJOY !!!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0nYwWY1mNRQ
Report Post »neverending
Posted on November 8, 2011 at 3:46pmGood for Governor Walker. He lives out his beliefs – he will not be intiimidated and he will not stand down. Need to show him our support.
Report Post »RightUnite
Posted on November 8, 2011 at 3:46pmHehehehehe!! Love it!!!
Report Post »KickinBack
Posted on November 8, 2011 at 3:46pmEver notice how atheists don’t complain about having to take Christmas day off from work?
Report Post »Mainer forever
Posted on November 8, 2011 at 4:03pmUntil you said that…..I never even thought of that….your right…….they NEVER complain about having the day off!!! And if they do work…say in a hospital, I‘m sure they get double time pay and don’t complain.
Report Post »jb.kibs
Posted on November 8, 2011 at 4:07pmyes, ever notice how they push for double homicide when a woman dies with a fetus at any age, but they say a fetus isn’t alive when they want to kill it themselves, to ditch responsibility for their actions or lack of self defense?
If you don’t care enough to carry a gun, you don’t care enough to try and defend yourself.
Report Post »fact: even the smallest gun, when shot at the criminal, can easily detour a *****. ;)
Centralsville
Posted on November 8, 2011 at 3:46pmThere is no such thing as a “holiday tree”. Atheists always have trouble with the truth because they follow a liar.
Report Post »colt1860
Posted on November 8, 2011 at 9:56pmExactly. At work, I refuse to say “happy holidays”. I don’t care what my so called superiors say, I’m saying “Merry Christmas” with a smile. What part of saying “Have a merry Christmas” is offensive? Its a nationally recognized official holiday. I will not say “happy holidays”. I only celebrate one holiday, not three.
And don’t forget folks.
Remember in December, Jesus is the reason for the season!
Report Post »Judith222
Posted on November 8, 2011 at 3:45pmGod Bless Governor Walker! AND HE WILL.
Report Post »db321
Posted on November 8, 2011 at 3:48pmAtheist don’t get upset when Muslim promote their Islamic Religion. Atheist don’t have a problem with religion they have a problem with God and they need to get over it.
Report Post »spirited
Posted on November 8, 2011 at 3:53pmAmen
>of men
Report Post »trueblueday
Posted on November 8, 2011 at 3:43pmGod bless you, Gov. Walker!
Report Post »SUMTHINSTINKS
Posted on November 8, 2011 at 3:48pmAMEN to that!!!
Report Post »mike_trivisonno
Posted on November 8, 2011 at 3:43pmThe muslims will be offended.
Report Post »RightUnite
Posted on November 8, 2011 at 3:47pmTuff hop!
Report Post »Mainer forever
Posted on November 8, 2011 at 3:52pmGood!!! I hope they are offended!!
Report Post »ConservativeChristianB1954
Posted on November 8, 2011 at 3:42pmIf God does not exist then what are they worried about? Hmmm, maybe they DO believe? hehehe
Report Post »suz
Posted on November 8, 2011 at 3:41pmi love the balls on this guy, scott walker.
Report Post »godhatesacoward
Posted on November 8, 2011 at 3:49pmcarefull SUZ. That sounds like sexual harassment to me . HA!
Report Post »thop1960
Posted on November 8, 2011 at 3:57pmWe know what you mean and no offense is intended, but maybe you should reconsider your wordage, it sounds, well, gay… Not that there’s anything wrong with that, except in the Bible, but who reads that…right? Just saying.
Report Post »TheVoice1
Posted on November 8, 2011 at 4:13pmSo well said Suz and I don’t know how saying a man has a set sounds “gay” according to thop1960.
So let me be careful of my verbiage as thop1960 suggests and clear the air Suz.
Walker has a set of balls like a Texas bull and we love it….it is so refreshing to see a set in today’s political arena! Ha ha ha!!!!!!!
Report Post »chips1
Posted on November 8, 2011 at 4:44pmEvery year at my law enforcement office, we had a Christmas tree until one of those athiests started complaining. She was a member of the EOCC. One of her speeches referred to “blue balls”. Ever since we always hung two blue ornaments on the tree as a silent statement. Each year, they got bigger. I hope the tradition continues. Those were the good old days.
Report Post »TEXASGRANNY73
Posted on November 8, 2011 at 5:31pm@ Why do some people have to try and make a wonderful message into vulgar attitudes? @Ithop
Report Post »Why don’t you read the Bible again? Ever hear of the beatitudes? Or sermon on the mount? Love your neighbor as yourself. Christ did not say run next door or across the country and ask about sex before you can love your neighbor. Or be a bigot first. Merry Christmas Wisconsin from one Texan.
KAdams
Posted on November 8, 2011 at 6:39pm@ Texasgranny
There’s a small problem with that statement. I know we‘re to ’love our neighbors as ourselves’, but what if you don’t love yourself? Or what if what you call ‘self-love‘ is in actuality ’self-lust’? Not to go off on a tangent, but lust (in this context) isn’t sexual… for all you freaks/creeps out there. :p
Report Post »In detroit
Posted on November 8, 2011 at 3:40pmCountry was in way better shape when it was just good ol christmas , I dare anyone to argue it wasnt? Anyone?
Report Post »jb.kibs
Posted on November 8, 2011 at 4:09pmit was, way better.
Report Post »AzDebi
Posted on November 8, 2011 at 3:40pmWay to Go Governor Walker!
Report Post »broker0101
Posted on November 8, 2011 at 3:40pmWow, the Perpetually Angry are Angry? Go figure. F-’em.
Report Post »LOJ
Posted on November 8, 2011 at 3:39pmIf they don’t like this then go to another Country….It is a Christ…Mas Tree and always will be…..Blessed is he among men!
Report Post »RossPoldark
Posted on November 9, 2011 at 1:30amO Christmas Tree! O Christmas Tree!
Report Post »How richly God has decked thee!
O Christmas Tree! O Christmas Tree!
How richly God has decked thee!
Thou bidst us true and faithful be,
And trust in God unchangingly.
O Christmas Tree! O Christmas Tree!
How richly God has decked thee! !
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