AMARILLO, TEXAS -- Most people don't think twice before wishing someone a "Merry Christmas" or "Happy Holidays", but it's those two phrases that have sparked some debate across the country.
When the Governor of Rhode Island opted to call their State House tree a "Holiday Tree" instead of a "Christmas Tree", many people were angered by it. So, what does the Panhandle think about the issue? Christmas Tree or Holiday Tree? For many Amarillo locals, like Helen Smith, it's a "Christmas Tree".
"We refer to it as Christmas tree and we always have," said Smith. "We don't use the word holiday very often."
"I've never understood the whole holiday tree thing, I've just always grown up with Christmas tree," laughed another resident of Amarillo, Brian Richards. "I've never heard anybody say holiday tree."
When asked why they called it a "Christmas Tree", most replied it was because of their religious beliefs.
"It's not a holiday thing, it's not about gifts so much, it's definitely celebrating Jesus' birth," said Amarillo citizen, Lisa Mason.
"We have a nativity set on our Christmas tree and an angel at the top of our tree," added Canyon resident, Kristie Tooley.
One Canyon resident, Nancy Hickman, added although other people wishing her "Happy Holidays" wouldn't offend her, she still prefers to say Merry Christmas "because, it's about the birth of Jesus Christ," Hickman added.
The City of Amarillo put up it's own "Christmas Tree" and the the mayor says that's a name he sees sticking around for quite a while.
"We've always referred to it as a Christmas tree and Christmas time and Christmas spirit and so we think that's important," said Mayor of Amarillo Paul Harpole. "We're proud to have it down there."
So, what's in a name? Truth it, it's up to you. But remember, no matter what you choose to call it -- 'tis the season to be jolly.
