Gold Dome Live

By Gary Zindars

January 30, 2007 11:50 AM | Link to this

The drive to be politically correct will eventually damage all Americans. This country was founded on Christianity and “Merry Christmas” is a constitutial right of free speech. It is time we wake-up before there is no one left to wake-up.

By Red

January 30, 2007 11:57 AM | Link to this

Boldface political pandering…

By Grampus

January 30, 2007 12:06 PM | Link to this

It’s a free country isn’t it? Greet people however you want. Bunch of damn fools. Do I have to explain everything?

By Warren

January 30, 2007 12:07 PM | Link to this

Two words FREE SPEECH….Welcome to America.Next they will want us to remove our American Flags.

By Marie

January 30, 2007 12:11 PM | Link to this

Merry Christmas should be allowed. It is still a Federal Holiday so teachers and employees should say whatever they want. We need to stop this crazy politically correct insanity before the Secular Progressives take God out of all of our lives!

By whoever

January 30, 2007 12:11 PM | Link to this

Merry Christmas

By Mark

January 30, 2007 12:24 PM | Link to this

One more issue we can hopefully put in the dust bin of history as Fox news and Rush Blowhard’s ratings continue to drop and more Christians realize they’re being taken for a ride by Bush and his faux Christian army of draft-dodging war mongers (who, BTW, call Christian leaders idiots and fools behind their backs). The spirit of Christmas is not in what you say but how you act and there’s plenty of politicians and talk radio blowhards acting mighty un-Christian in a (now failing) effort to scare up a return to the fear-filled first half of this decade. Let’s move on to something actually important.

By Deborah

January 30, 2007 12:28 PM | Link to this

I would think the GA Legislature would have more important things to do than this. This is exactly why the state is always at the bottom of everything, except maybe traffic congestion.

By gttim

January 30, 2007 12:32 PM | Link to this

Poor persecuted Christians!

The Christian right is screaming free speech. However, criticize the war or Bush and they scream “You can’t say that!”

Christmas is nothing but a commercialized holiday designed to put the rubes into debt.

By sc

January 30, 2007 12:35 PM | Link to this

Mark, as usual you completely miss the point of this discussion. Why is it that the liberals are always redefining an issue so that they can slam and demean people they don’t like! Talk about being “Politically InCorrect”?????

By Coast man

January 30, 2007 12:36 PM | Link to this

Let’s make city, county, state and federal employees work on Christmas Day, except for when it falls on a weekend. Giving them a day off , after all, at taxpayers’ expense in observance of Christmas is, after all, recognition of religion, right? The same for school children. Why should we shut down schools on the birthday of Jesus Christ? Get real.

By InWonder

January 30, 2007 12:40 PM | Link to this

So other people’s rights are more important than my rights? What is wrong with that picture? We are all equal and that is just a PC way of not offending others. Come on. People need to get over the fact that others think and believe different than themselves and because they are so self-aborbed and only care about themselves they try to take away our rights so they can feel more superiour and think of themselves the majority. Very egocentric society we have become, it is sad. Can’t we just be happy that someone is happy in what they think and believe and stop pushing to make them stop doing that because “it irritates YOU”???? (That is when you go off and complain to those you know think and believe like you and then go try to boycott the rest of us - How is that fair????)

By Oh the Humanity

January 30, 2007 12:41 PM | Link to this

You people would do more for christmas by banning Santa Claus.

By Mike P

January 30, 2007 12:43 PM | Link to this

Well put Deborah and others. Marie, the way we are headed Christmas won’t a holiday many more years. Look for it to be replaced with a generic name for all to celebrate their respective saviour and not necessarily on the same day. and on a state by state basis, not federal.

By InWonder

January 30, 2007 12:45 PM | Link to this

Coast man Do you know how many government employees would have a fit having to work on Christmas? Ya, the idea seems great on paper, but actually doing it you will get a completely different reponse.

By Rev Haggard

January 30, 2007 12:49 PM | Link to this

Jesus said sell your possessions and give the money to the poor.

On his birthday we do the opposite. BUY, buy, buy, spend ,spend, spend. What a great way to express your love to our savior.

“Merry Christmas” is hardly the problem.

By Smart Dude

January 30, 2007 12:50 PM | Link to this

So have children and teachers really been discouraged from saying Merry Christmas? Or does this all stem from retailers asking their employees to use a more generic holiday greeting that includes everyone? (b)

By Tonia

January 30, 2007 12:51 PM | Link to this

I see some of us merely wait in the wings to post some insults toward others. But since we live in a Country that protects free speech. Merry Christmans Everyone and a Great New Year.

By Greg

January 30, 2007 12:54 PM | Link to this

Hey Deborah this is important!! These civil right nutcases are trying to tell us that we can’t say Merry Christmas because it might offend somebody. Give me a freakin break!! Gary said it perfectly by reminding us that this country was founded on Christianity and by trying to not upset the minority we are taking away the majority’s rights!! All these people that are so concerned about making sure nobody’s feelings are hurt…What are we in the f*** 3rd grade!!! If you don’t like to hear Merry Christmas then move to the Middle East and I gurantee you won’t ever hear it again. I certainly am not racist or bigoted I just hate to see my rights taken away from me!!

By Tommy

January 30, 2007 12:56 PM | Link to this

To quote Max von Sydow’s character in Woody Allen’s “Hannah and Her Sisters”, ‘If Jesus came back, and saw what was being done in his name, he’d never stop throwing up.’

By Peyton Walters

January 30, 2007 12:57 PM | Link to this

Thank goodness we have lawmakers seeking to turn around the persecution of the Christian minority in this country. We must be welcoming and tolerant of their faith.

Perhaps they will soon ban the pledge of allegiance to the flag (an idol) which also should offend our Christian brethren, who are a persecuted minority in this country.

WAAAAAAAAAAH!

By Jason

January 30, 2007 12:57 PM | Link to this

What I don’t understand is what’s wrong with Happy Holidays. I think of the holiday season as Thanksgiving through New Years Day. That includes Christmas, Hanakkah and that “fake” holiday Kwanza. What’s really going on is the Georgia GOP is continuing it’s transformation into the Evangelical Christian Party of Georgia. To oppose them is to oppose God. They’re certain God is on their side, but history has been very cruel to people who thought they had a “divine right” to rule. I find it hilarious that many of the General Assembly members that support this bill because they find “Happy Holidays” offensive were steadfast supporters of keeping Confederate battle flag on our state flag. Why would anyone find that offensive? This “Merry Christmas Bill” is the next in a long line of REDNECK legislation passed by the General Assembly and to be signed by Good OLE Sonny. The abortion bill they passed last year was based on religious right ideology not medical facts. Good Ole Sonny doesn’t think we should vote on Sunday alcohol sales, but Gay Marriage deserves a referendeum and for that matter they took up a ton of time last session banning Gay-Straight alliances from Georgia high schools while thousands of children in Georgia were kicked off state subsidized insurance. What if someone wanted to ban FCA. They would be up in arms! The bottom line is we have a “White Trash Legislature” and a Redneck Dufus in Governors Mansion. It’s about time that Atlanta area republicans stood up and challenged where your parties going. Atlanta is a world class city, but we are the laughing stock of the nation because of our State Government, Phil Gingrey, Jack Kingston and Saxby Chambliss etc.. All of you high brow north Atlanta Republicans should realize your party is owned by a bunch White Trash Fundamentalists. YEE HAW!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Before anyone encourages me to leave Georgia may I extend the offer to you. Georgia would be a better place if all of you good ole boy fundamentalists would leave!

By donna

January 30, 2007 12:59 PM | Link to this

Before we turn this into a war between Christian and Non-Christian. Let’s just call it what it is. Freedom of speech. Those that want to acknowledge christmas by saying Merry Christmas if they choose too. Those that don’t should not be made too. I grew up in a household where my father was Muslin and I’m not but when it came to Christmas I acknowledge it and he didn’t. We never tried to force the other to change their belief. That’s what the government is trying to do. After a while they are going to say when and when not we can go to the rest room. Will they ban us from saying other words. The US suppose to be a free country. Everyone has the right of their on belief and to greet eachother in what ever way they want. Just respect each other. I have plenty of friends with different belief, Muslim, an Jehoviah who don’t celebrate other holidays not only Christmas. They don’t celebrate Easter, Mother Day, Father Day and that’s their right. The same as it should be for the school system. Teachers should not feel they will get in trouble if they Greet some one by saying Merry Christmas.

By This is a crock

January 30, 2007 1:02 PM | Link to this

It seems the teachers in my child’s public school are all evangelicals. They all say Merry Christmas and have “moments of silence” ie prayer in their classrooms. And on top of all that they complain to the students that “they” are trying to take Christ out of Christmas.

By Mokey

January 30, 2007 1:08 PM | Link to this

Donna have you ever been in a public school in Georgia? When I was in school teachers led their kids in prayer and had Christmas parties. Today in systems throughout this state, the same thing goes on every day and when’s the last time you read a story about a teacher in Georgia catching any flak for any of this stuff. You haven’t.

By Angel

January 30, 2007 1:15 PM | Link to this

Why is the word “Merry Christmas” a problem - because it has to do with God. This is a society that will try & do anything to obliterate anything that has to do with God in public, yet on the currency it has is “in God we Trust” - hypocrites.

PRAISE THE LORD MERRY CHRISTMAS

By Jeff

January 30, 2007 1:16 PM | Link to this

From a (former) teacher:

Yes, Administration flat out bars “Merry Christmas” and even Christmas decorations on the walls. It must be “Holiday decorations”, to include kwanzaa, hanukkah, “c”hristmas (notice the lower case c), winter solstice, and whatever else may be celebrated in December.

By Rick

January 30, 2007 1:23 PM | Link to this

This country was founded by people who firmly believed in god and the reference to the seperation of church and state has beeen taken so far out of context it is not funny. Make a trip tp Washington D.C. and visit the National Archives, Lincoln Mem, Washington Monument, anf tell me these folks did not believe in God. I feel this bill is a waste of time as the right to free speech clearly allows anyone to say anything they choose.

By Glee

January 30, 2007 1:25 PM | Link to this

Please tell me why our lawmakers keep catering to those few people who do not know their constitutional rights. Every time legislative members decide to sponsor a bill such as this it confirms to the few that they have a point. There is no point…if I pray & you don’t want to, don’t. If I say Merry Christmas you don’t have to respond or acknowledge just keep stepping. Anyway what are the polls for? All polls show that most Americans have no problem with prayer in schools or at public events…most Americans have no problem with “in God we trust” on our currency… most Americans have no objections to the Ten Commandments being posted in our public buildings. Afterall, if we tried to live by the commandments we would be better people & what ‘s wrong with wanting to be a better person & doing what is right. But if you care not to abide by the 10, you don’t have to, even God gave you a personal choice and the ACLU is not bigger than God.

By rid0617

January 30, 2007 1:27 PM | Link to this

It is a shame rights we have had all along have to be legislated while we are supposed to be considerate to every rag head holiday and custom. If you don’t like our customs Delta is ready when you are. Go back where the hell you come from.

By AuggieDoo

January 30, 2007 1:32 PM | Link to this

We have congested roadways, illiteracy, underpaid teachers, Georgia citizens without health insurance, this is just for starters. Does Rep. Cox live in a dream world or does he just not care about real world issues. I know my logical, secular opinion will do nothing but bring insults from the fundies. But, at least it might get them to think for themselves and not what a preacher on a highway billboard believes tells them.

By Jason

January 30, 2007 1:34 PM | Link to this

Montesquieu, Voltaire, Rousseau, and Hume had far more influence than Matthew, Mark, Luke or John on the Declaration of Independance and ensuing Constitution of the Unites States and the Bill of Rights. Nowhere in the Bible, Koran or Eastern Philosophies do we find the advocation of representative democracy. That being said there were two major and very different revolutions based on the ideas of the enlightenment. The French Revolution went so far as to try to stamp out organized religion and they turned Cathedrals into “Temples of Reason”. In contrast the American Revolution set up a firm seperation of church and state, but did nothing to discourage citizens to worship as they saw fit. I think that’s why to this day America has such a diverse range of faiths and the highest worship attendance in the western world. As far as this bill and fringe right hysteria over the ten commandments and merry Christmas not getting favortism before the law doesn’t qualify as persecution.

By Lynette

January 30, 2007 1:35 PM | Link to this

TIA Crock:

The “Moment of Silence” is mandated by law in this state.

I say Merry Christmas, I will always say Merry Christmas and if someone says “Happy Holiday’s” to me I say Thank you and a Merry Chirstmas to you.

There are many in this country who would seek to eliminate the inalienable rights afforded to an individual based on the religon they claim. There is no other religon in this “FREE” country of ours that is vilified like Christianity. We would never dream of limiting a Buddist, Muslim, Hindu in the manner we do Christians.

The constitution speaks of freedom of religon and separation of church and state it does not afford the right to obliterate my religion.

By Michael Covington

January 30, 2007 1:41 PM | Link to this

Is anyone actually offended by being wished a merry Christmas, or is this a fiction of the politically hypercorrect?

The legislature may be addressing a non-problem with a non-solution.

By D'woody

January 30, 2007 1:46 PM | Link to this

I was under the impression we already had a Bill of Rights to cover this kind of thing. Oh silly me. What next? Lots of mother voters out there people. I smell a law to protect Mother’s Day! Someone get on it.

By Angel

January 30, 2007 1:47 PM | Link to this

Jason - As far as this bill and fringe right hysteria over the ten commandments and merry Christmas not getting favortism before the law doesn’t qualify as persecution - no it’s not persecution, but it will & can lead to persecution & take away folk’s freedom of Speech toward Christianity. This is a step by step process, little by little society is edging on & hating on Christianity.

Why not do away with Halloween?

This is a society that doesn’t respect, fear or love God, but when disaster hits all you can hear is “Oh Lord”.

When ya’ll are voting remember that a society that turn against God is doom.

By Jason

January 30, 2007 1:49 PM | Link to this

Let’s see kids get two weeks off for Christmas and a few days off for Easter. Our school week is Monday through Friday. Friday is the Muslim holy day. We schedule school activities and sports for Friday night after sun down which is technically the Jewish sabbath. The Jewish ten days of awe (New Years to Yom Kippur) are regular school days. The Muslim holy month of Rammadan doesn’t get one day on the school holiday calendar in Georgia. Yeah your right Christians are being persecuted. I don’t advocate changing our holiday schedule or school week. I am just letting you know that your idiot if you think Christians are being persecuted. Not getting treated like your better or more important than other religions, agnostics or atheists doesn’t qualify as persecution. What Fox News and the Right Wing Talking Heads do is take isolated instances and petty things and blow them way out of proportion to prod conservative anger points. Face in reality your not being oppressed.

By Mark

January 30, 2007 1:53 PM | Link to this

The country was founded by Christians, but was not founded as a Christian nation. Read the writings of the Founding Fathers on the topic and you will see they all believed state sanctioned religion had no place in the new United States. So let’s all just get off of the “this was founded as a Christian nation” crap because it just isn’t true — no matter what Pat Robertson, Jerry Fallwell and the other fundie nut jobs put in your head through Fox News, talk radio and TV church services. That being said, Christmas is definately a US tradition and if people say Merry Christmas, that should be their right. I say it unless I know the person I’m talking to doesn’t celebrate Christmas. Then it’s happy holidays. If it’s too much trouble to respect others’ holidays and beliefs, then you are the ones who are un-American.

By David Bruce

January 30, 2007 1:59 PM | Link to this

Yet another news item to embarrass Georgia in the face of the civilized world. Why can’t our politicians do something useful for a change?

By Ga Liberal

January 30, 2007 2:02 PM | Link to this

This is just another stellar example of how the legislature wastes time (and taxpayer money) on frivilous trivial issues while the air gets dirtier, roads more congested, schools more crowded, and overally quality of life declines. Why do people keep voting Republicans into office?

By Gwoodman

January 30, 2007 2:03 PM | Link to this

This entire bit of legislation is nothing more than a representative wanting his 15 minutes of fame, and unfortunately for all of us, can think of nothing positive or constructive to contribute to the State of Georgia. This is not about the loss of Freedom of Speech. And it’s not about Christianity. It’s about the people we, the few voters of Georgia, choose to send to the Legislature. You speak of Red Neck legislators - well, that’s what you get when no one wants to bother to run for office, and once running, no one else wants to bother to get off their butts and go vote. So give the rep his 15 minutes. And next election, use your 15 minutes of fame, go vote, and let’s try to get some sensible people in the Legislature.

By D'woody

January 30, 2007 2:05 PM | Link to this

Lynette, why on earth would you say Merry Christmas to someone unless you knew that they celebrated Christmas? I’m not saying you can’t. I’m not saying you don’t have the right. And I’m certainly not saying the State Legislature should get involved. But I will say that I’m Jewish and say “Happy Holidays” to people I don’t know. If I get a Merry Christmas in return, I’m left with no alternative but to assume that the person has returned my good wishes by talking to herself. That’s not politically incorrect. That’s mental illness.

By Mr. T

January 30, 2007 2:08 PM | Link to this

“It protects free speech of our public employees and our students,” Cox told the House Civil Judiciary Committee this morning moments before the panel gave preliminary approval to his bill.

What a moron. The founding document of our country, usually called the Constitution, does a fine job of protecting free speech for everyone, thank you very much.

This is political pandering, plain and simple. At no point has it ever been illegal for a public employee or teacher to say Merry Christmas to anyone. There’s a big difference between requiring teachers to respect all religions represented in their classrooms and telling them they can’t say Merry Christmas. Stop being simpletons.

By Eric

January 30, 2007 2:10 PM | Link to this

Holy crap. Do our legistlators not have REAL issues they could be dealing with? What a waste of time and tax dollars. We are not paying these morons for this type of work.

By donna

January 30, 2007 2:11 PM | Link to this

Mokey, I have 5 girls 3 already graduated from public school and 2 still in. They came up during the time when they took prayer out of school, but I teacher my girls to pray before they do anything. But I also teach them to respect others rights as well as others need to respect their right. So they took prayer out of school my girls still pray One of my daughters are in band and they pray before they take the field or what ever we are doing. All that want to participate do and the ones that don’t they stand quietly. When my oldest 2 was in school they were still saying Merry Christmas, having the Christmas parties and decorating the school halls. The children and staff loved it. Now they call it the Winter Holiday Party. We still buy gifts for the teachers, that’s our preference. My last too are in 8th and 11th grade. I was talking to one of the teachers at my 8th grader school and she said she was written up because a student went home and told a parent she had them to write about there plans for the Christmas Holidays. The parent felt she should have said the Winter Holidays. That was ridiculous. She was so upset. The next day, which was the last day my daughter brought her a gift and she was scared to accept it because the card said Merry Christmas.

By jack

January 30, 2007 2:12 PM | Link to this

The USA was NOT founded on christianity. It was founded on religious freedom—ALL religions. If my particular version of superstition is Satanic Worship, THAT is also religious freedom.

Get your facts straight.

By jack

January 30, 2007 2:14 PM | Link to this

In the mean time…any of my elected official that I find are wasting their very limited time on this bill will most certainly not have my vote next time around.

Spend your time on things that matter.

By ChrisD

January 30, 2007 2:15 PM | Link to this

Smart move. Too many companies—including Circuit City—have policies banning employees from saying “Merry Christmas.” I found that out firsthand from Circuit City. That nonsense needs to stop. Merry Christmas!

By bfolds

January 30, 2007 2:16 PM | Link to this

I find it very disturbing that a law has to be passed before a person should/should not say “Merry Christmas”, but if it must, it must. I have always said this when I shop and will not do business with any company that bows to the pressure from the (very very few) who say it bothers them. If you don’t like it, don’t say it. If it bothers you when I say it, don’t listen. After all the “crap” that is out there (tv, radio, public gatherings, etc.), “Merry Christmas” is a beautiful sentiment and a refreshing sound to my ears after the assault by the people who talk the filth. Please, please pass a law to put the trash speaking people in jail or at least give them 30 days in jail and a $500 fine!

By ChrisD

January 30, 2007 2:17 PM | Link to this

Even Cumberland Mall’s Santa display banned “Merry Christmas.” Yep, it’s a fact. I was there, and I talked to management about it. They confirmed it, and said they wouldn’t change it. Ridiculous.

By ChrisD

January 30, 2007 2:19 PM | Link to this

Freedom OF religion, not freedom FROM religion.

By ramblinlonghorn

January 30, 2007 2:20 PM | Link to this

The best law in this case is no law. The schools shouldn’t celebrate any holidays. This is the easiest way to avoid having to give equal representation to every religion. Take down the trees; cancel the gift exchanges; Eliminate the cheer, the fellowship, and the good will. Anything to make sure that we don’t admit to ourselves and our children that there are other religions, other viewpoints, other cultures. /sarcasm

By Tim

January 30, 2007 2:24 PM | Link to this

Outlaw the ACLU.

By Oh the Humanity

January 30, 2007 2:25 PM | Link to this

No!!! NOT THE SANTA DISPLAY!!!

WWJD?

By cc

January 30, 2007 2:27 PM | Link to this

Thank God! I was so worried that we were becoming known as the state with the worst education/traffic/environment! At least Christmas is protected! Yeah! Now if our State Legislature can just figure out how to save the state from oblivion while they’re at it! But that seems like a lot of work and it IS easier just to pass useless bills such this.

By New Life Church

January 30, 2007 2:28 PM | Link to this

No public prayer, sell possessions…

You Jesus freaks need to chill.

(“Jesus freaks” is ok to use, I don’t like being politically correct, and enjoy free speech.)

By Big Dawg

January 30, 2007 2:29 PM | Link to this

It’s utterly amazing the amount of time our elected officials waste when they are in session.

By Jason

January 30, 2007 2:30 PM | Link to this

How would you all like it if your school board was controlled by Scientologists and they decided to put stickers in your kids Psychology book saying “the idea that anti-deppresants and ADD medications are effective medical treatments is a theory not a fact, this information should be approached objectively with an open mind”. How would you like it if a Muslim teacher wanted to wish your kids a Happy Ramadan or an orthodox Jewish teacher told your kids pork and shellfish are unclean and they shouldn’t eat. If you can legislate your faith and morality on others why couldn’t a Satanists, Scientologist, or Wiccan do the same. Church and State are seperate for that reason.

By JustPeachy

January 30, 2007 2:30 PM | Link to this

There are far more serious matters in this state which should be addressed in this session than whether or not someone has the kahoonas to say what they want, when they want. Free Speech is only Free Speech when people DO IT and don’t hold back in fear of hurting someone’s feelings! Man Up Georgia Legislature. Find something else to talk about.

By JustPeachy

January 30, 2007 2:31 PM | Link to this

There are far more serious matters in this state which should be addressed in this session than whether or not someone has the kahoonas to say what they want, when they want. Free Speech is only Free Speech when people DO IT and don’t hold back in fear of hurting someone’s feelings. Man Up Georgia Legislature. Find something else to talk about.

By JustPeachy

January 30, 2007 2:31 PM | Link to this

There are far more serious matters in this state which should be addressed in this session than whether or not someone has the kahoonas to say what they want, when they want. Free Speech is only Free Speech when people DO IT and don’t hold back in fear of hurting someone’s feelings. Man Up Georgia Legislature. Find something else to talk about.

By JustPeachy

January 30, 2007 2:32 PM | Link to this

There are far more serious matters in this state which should be addressed in this session than whether or not someone has the kahoonas to say what they want, when they want. Free Speech is only Free Speech when people DO IT and don’t hold back in fear of hurting someone’s feelings. Man Up Georgia Legislature. Find something else to talk about.

By JustPeachy

January 30, 2007 2:32 PM | Link to this

There are far more serious matters in this state which should be addressed in this session than whether or not someone has the kahoonas to say what they want, when they want. Free Speech is only Free Speech when people EXERCISE IT and don’t hold back in fear of hurting someone’s feelings. Man Up Georgia Legislature. Find something else to talk about.

By JustPeachy

January 30, 2007 2:33 PM | Link to this

There are far more serious matters in this state which should be addressed in this session than whether or not someone has the kahoonas to say what they want, when they want. Free Speech is only Free Speech when people EXERCISE IT and don’t hold back in fear of hurting someone’s feelings. Man Up Georgia Legislature. Find something else to talk about.

By GET A JOB

January 30, 2007 2:34 PM | Link to this

There seems to be not enough work for lawmakers these days— lets lay them off. RIDICULOUS waste of time

By bfolds

January 30, 2007 2:35 PM | Link to this

Merry Christmas! I will say it and I will not stop. I am a Christian and I will not change. If people look around, only a few are trying to make it hard for the rest of us. If we ignore them, they will shut up and go away. If not, perhaps they should be the ones to go over to Iraq, fighting so that they can try and cause trouble. Let’s see how far they get in a country that doesn’t care what they think. As far as Cumberland Mall, or any other mall, if you don’t shop there, they most assuredly will change it to get their business back. My family did not go near a mall this Christmas. We got back to the meaning of Christmas. Wishing Jesus a happy birthday and making gifts at home for everyone. We never got stressed out and totally enjoyed our holiday!! Do did our families. Oh, yes, MERRY CHRISTMAS is here to stay. So, pass whatever law you have to.

By Ga Liberal

January 30, 2007 2:36 PM | Link to this

Historians and astronomers generally agree that Jesus was not born on 12/25. It is more like either around Thanksgiving or sometime in February (depending on if the bright star was actually a supernova). 12/25 is close to the winter equinox which the pegans celebrated because they knew winter was ending. The good old Catholic church wanted to end the pegan celebrations so they just usurped this as a religious holiday. So celebrating Christmas is actually engaging in pegan worship of stars, the Monn, and trees (hence Christmas trees).

By canwegetreal?

January 30, 2007 2:38 PM | Link to this

There are so many other issues of far greater importance. But here in Georgia, let’s make “Merry Christmas While You Go Fishing” our priorities. Legislators should do what is important for its citizenry, not what might keep a political constituency happy.

By Eunice

January 30, 2007 2:39 PM | Link to this

What is the problem??? doesn’t EVERY “HOILDAY” have a ‘NAME”. If you are going to reduce CHRISTmas to a mare “HOLIDAY’ then reduce EVERY every other hoilday that has the name of: Independence, Thanksgiving, Easter, MLK, Labour, Memorial etc etc and just call ALL OF THEM “HOILDAYS”.

As for the spending aspect of it, you are the MASTER of your our master & visa cards, check books or ATM useage. No commercial can make me buy something I DON’T want.

Stop wasting time of trivial matters. The law is being changed, altered, reduced, increased, decreased so fast that it’s getting out of hand, nothing but confusion!!!!!

Deal with “REAL” iasues!!!! unemployment, poor housing, no housing, street people, elderly, low income…..bring the men back on IRAN, IRAQ you know REAL issues!!

By Dale

January 30, 2007 2:39 PM | Link to this

It’s about time that someone protected us “ahead of time” and saved our right to wish others a Merry Christmas instead of debating it after it has been banned. It’s also a crying shame that we even have to debate this issue. I’m sick of seeing Happy Holidays everywhere you go for Christmas.

By Jables

January 30, 2007 2:43 PM | Link to this

I’m astonished by the ingnorance on this site and of this proposed bill. No one has ever prevented me from saying “Merry Christmas”—ever. In fact, as some folks earlier mentioned, the first admendment protects an individual’s right to say such things. The only real concern over the use of the word would be in the case of an officially sanctioned government greeting that demanded, not wished, a “Merry Christmas.” I wish my church family a Merry Christmas when the opportunity affords, but I also wish my Jewish friends a Happy Hanukkah, and my Hindu friends a Happy Diwali. This is a non-issue folks. Say what you please to whom you please. Merry Tuesday folks.

By Yankee

January 30, 2007 2:45 PM | Link to this

Jason, you said it all! Thank you and Happy holidays!

By Tuesday

January 30, 2007 2:45 PM | Link to this

I simply cannot believe it has come to this. We have to have a law now to say Merry Christmas???

Last I heard, this was the land of the free, free to say what I want with out fear.

It all comes down to these damn Islamic Muslims. They want us to conform to their ways or they are going to kill us.

At this rate, we will be under Islamic law within the next 20 years. Just watch.

Very slowly our rights are being taken away from us to appease these people. Wouldn’t want to tell them to get the hell out of our country, so we will just bow down to them, and appease them.

By ga_tech_92

January 30, 2007 2:50 PM | Link to this

I wanted to provide my two cents: The issue is freedom of speech, not vilification of specific religions.
Someone asked if there were any reasons for people to be concerned about this, after all we have freedom of speech. Then Jeff posted this: From a (former) teacher: Yes, Administration flat out bars “Merry Christmas” and even Christmas decorations on the walls. It must be “Holiday decorations”, to include kwanzaa, hanukkah, “c”hristmas (notice the lower case c), winter solstice, and whatever else may be celebrated in December. There you have it, just as the original article being blogged indicated; teachers are discouraged/asked not to/barred from saying or expressing Merry Christmas. That is an issue. We have taken a minority of people’s voices and under the weight of political correctness, muted the majority. (If you don’t’ believe me, please read again. There are two different sources saying Teachers aren’t allowed to post/say Merry Christmas.) Being banned from saying something non-threatening is against everything Freedom of Speech and Expression stand for. So yes, there is a problem. No I’m not a Christian; I personally have some level of respect and observance of all religions. I got to this point in my life while being raised saying “under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all”. We weren’t “NOT” allowed to say or express God or Christmas and under the system which did not discourage us, I developed my own guidance system and respect for all religions. When we tell people, “You can’t say Merry Christmas”, it isn’t many steps removed from saying, “Christians are bad”…or perhaps “If you express your feelings for Christmas, then you are hurting other people’s feelings, again your bad”.
It doesn’t take a rocket scientist to realize this issue is bigger than just this issue. Give them an inch and they will take the constitution. People should be free to say or express any religion they wish; however, in schools in this example, that is not the case. Schools have lost freedom of speech. …Unless Jeremy Redmon and Jeff are lying to us, which is doubtful.

By gman

January 30, 2007 2:53 PM | Link to this

To quote my 6 year old, “That’s pretty freakin’ stupid.” It’s a greeting that people pass on to have a happy holiday where the MAJORITY of people celebrate. Sure, saying it to a rabbi might be as offensive as serving him unkoshered meat but the meaning behind it is the same; To wish someone good cheer for the happiest holiday of the year. Come on, we don’t go around “Happy St. Patrick’s Day”, we just go out drink to a stupor and care less what started that holiday in the first place. In short, if you get offended by someone that wishes you a merry Christmas, then you must get offended when a complete stranger says, “God bless you” when you sneeze.

By Synthia

January 30, 2007 2:53 PM | Link to this

How about the state legislators working on something IMPORTANT this session??!! Something like, hmmn, let’s see…HEALTH CARE FOR POOR CHILDREN!!!

Georgia is so @ss backwards.

By Smart Dude

January 30, 2007 2:55 PM | Link to this

There’s a big difference between requiring teachers to respect all religions represented in their classrooms and telling them they can’t say Merry Christmas. Stop being simpletons.

Also, I have lots of friends who are teachers and they all accept gifts from their students. Stop trying to act like a martyr.

By Nina

January 30, 2007 3:02 PM | Link to this

I’m not even Christian. If someone says “Merry Christmas” to me, I’ll happily say it back. I don’t see what the big deal is.

By DRMR

January 30, 2007 3:06 PM | Link to this

Well, at leat the Republicans didn’t try to make it referendum during an election cycle. This reminds me so much of the anti-gay marriage proposals to help turn-out the Christian Taliban among us. Shame on you Clay Cox!

By CM

January 30, 2007 3:11 PM | Link to this

jeez louise.. all the problems in Atlanta/Georgia that we COULD address, but instead we have this and the infamous “Sweet Tea Legislation of 2006”…

By gg

January 30, 2007 3:11 PM | Link to this

Representative Cox, They probably didn’t teach you the US Constitution back at WCU, well, here’s the first Amendment:

“Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the Government for a redress of grievances.”

So quit wasting time and introduce some REAL legislations instead… something more inline with.. say… extending MARTA to Lilburn so your constituents wont be breathing carbon monoxide every morning.

By steve

January 30, 2007 3:12 PM | Link to this

I should run for office in this state. All you have to do to get elected is say “yankees, mexicans, and atheists oh my!”

By mikew

January 30, 2007 3:14 PM | Link to this

This country has become a country of FOOLS. We are letting others from the outside of the U.S change everthing. The people that we vote into office has solded us out and we let them. I am glad that I have more time behind me than I have ahead of me.

By Stephen

January 30, 2007 3:17 PM | Link to this

At the end of each legislative session, there is always a last minute frantic push to get the important legislation dealt with e.g. budgets. It is because of insane, ridiculous wastes of time like this bill. This is time spent debating a bill that is utterly useless over shoring up healthcare, taking care of our children and elderly, and serious non-partisan debates on our money. This stuff is just sickening.

By DebbieDoRight

January 30, 2007 3:20 PM | Link to this

This is the most asinine, ridiculous thing I’ve heard in a long time. WHO CARES?!? I don’t care if you say Merry Christmas, Merry XMAS, Happy Holidays or hey YOU Happy Hannukkah!!!

They are going to spend MONEY and waste TIME on this? My God!! Why stop there?!? Let’s make a law that says you must drop to your knees and pray every three hours?!? Let’s become just like IRAN with all of our pandering to religion!!!

By Robert

January 30, 2007 3:22 PM | Link to this

This country was founded on Christianity? Funny, I thought it was founded on FREEDOM OF RELIGION, and that includes “FROM” religion. This country was settled by people who had been persecuted for not believing in the Church of England; for believing just a little bit differently. And, those folks who settled here first went to the Netherlands because of the freedoms they were allowed. They had to seek permission to come to the new world from the king. It was granted and with it came the freedom to practice as one felt appropriate. This includes FREEDOM FROM RELIGION. But as good people, we must continue to abuse those who are a little different.

Remember the Nazi Germans had a great system: Pink triangle - gay Black triangle - lesbian, alcoholics, mentally retarted, vagrants Brown triangle - Gypsies Yellow Star of David - Jew Pink traingle over Yellow forming a Star of David - gay Jew Green triangle - criminals Purple triangle - Jehovah’s Witnesses Red triangle -political prisoner, Social Democrats, Freemasons, anarchists

The Nazis wanted to remove all opposing political parties, and dictated religion. Hitler banned freethought organizations and launched an “anti-godless” movement.

It appears we are quickly approaching a Nazi-esque monotheocracy. This is quite a shame since those leading the cause believe in AMERICAN FREEDOM. On the flipside, the liberal Nazis want to defend my freedom of speech by telling me what I cannot say? Get centered people and be happy! If you have time to worry about what I am doing, you need to get a new hobby, or pay my bills.

Protect American freedom for all Americans! Merry Christmas, Happy Chanukah, Happy Kwanza, Happy Winter Solstice

By dee

January 30, 2007 3:23 PM | Link to this

Republican idiocy at it’s best. Forget that we’re number 48 in school quality. Forget that we’re number 10 in school drop out rate. Forget that Georgia children don’t hold up to the rest of the country. Forget that we’re gonna cut out the linguistic program in elementary schools. Let’s concentrate on making it a law to say Merry Christmas. God save us from ourselves.

By lynda lundy

January 30, 2007 3:26 PM | Link to this

I am tired of hearing of all the people trying to take Christ name out of everything.God is the creator of this world.God is everywhere all over.I will say Merry Christmas at all times and no law will stop me.

By Eric

January 30, 2007 3:29 PM | Link to this

No one in this country needs a law to designate how people greet each other. Get over yourself already.

By AtlantaNole

January 30, 2007 3:30 PM | Link to this

So we have this long laundry list of problems, including congested roads? Um, gee, help me understand. If we are such a bad place with so many issues, why are so many people moving here to congest our roads?

Private businesses, such as Circuit City and the Cumberland Mall, should be able to tell their employees to say or not say whatever they like during working hours. The government should establish NO law controlling that. On the other and, government employees work for taxpayers. Making the broad assumption that voters are taxpayers, and extended that to assume that elected officials are represntative of voters, if elected officials say that government employees can be allowed to say “Merry Christmas”, then no state employee should be punished for saying such, either on their own time or outside of work.

May you the reader have a blessed day.

By Jason

January 30, 2007 3:32 PM | Link to this

“Freedom OF religion, not freedom FROM religion.”

Ok Chris, How would you like it if a Scientologist run school board put stickers in your kids Psychology books that said “The use of anti-depressants and ADD medication to treat patients is a theory not a fact; the information on this subject should be examined objectively with a open mind”. If you can enforce Christian(fundamentalist) views and ideas on others what’s to stop your childs Wiccan teacher from wishing your child a Happy Day of the Dead. You would probably object to your childs Muslim teacher wishing your kid a Happy Ramadan and telling him Muhammend is the reason for the season or how about an Orthodox Jewish teacher telling your kid that his Bacon Cheeseburger is unclean because meat and cheese shouldn’t be mixed and pork is ungodly. Those are just a few reasons why Church and State should be seperate. If you could legally enforce your religion and morality on others a Wiccan, Muslim, Jew or Scientologist could do the same. You probably wouldn’t like that.

By Eric

January 30, 2007 3:33 PM | Link to this

Lynda Lundy, get serious.

If you’re really a Christian, I’d think you understand that Christ doesn’t belong in a department store. If you want to hear his name in school, there’s always private schools to fill your need.

You have the right to walk down the street and shout his name all you want, and no lions will come to eat you. Grow up.

By Dylan

January 30, 2007 3:38 PM | Link to this

The idea that this country was founded on Christianity is a lie propagated by religious extremists who wish to control our country. People should feel free to say “Merry Christmas” or “Happy Holidays” or “Happy Festivus” as they please. When they hear “Happy Holidays” Christians scream about discrimination, they have such a persecution complex. Who’s being politically incorrect?

I can’t believe people are taking this so seriously. What a bunch of pandering.

By D.

January 30, 2007 3:41 PM | Link to this

Can someone point me to the news story about the teachers who were not allowed to say Merry Christmas? What about the people who complained to stores about the phrase and demanded “Happy Holidays” be used instead?” Anyone?

That deafining silence must mean that those things didn’t happen - that teachers can say Merry Christmas until blue and that stores say Happy Holidays because that’s what they prefer, not because of pressure from any unnamed “they” who are “warring” against Christmass.

So who is applying the pressure here? The majority religion demands that every store use the phrase that acknowledges the majority religion’s holiday above all others, and threatens stores with a boycott if they refuse. The majority religion passes a law to protect the right to use the majority religion’s holiday greeting, even though that right is already protected by the First Amendment.

That’s not a war on Christmas - it’s a war by Christians, using Christmas as a cheap tool for political gain.

By ga_tech_92

January 30, 2007 3:44 PM | Link to this

Several people are saying things like, “I don’t see what the big deal is. If you want to say Merry Christmas, then have the balls to say it!” The issue shouldn’t need discussing and it should be as simple as what you’re saying; however, we’ve had several specific examples of employers not allowing employees to say Merry Christmas (schools, retails, etc). When your employer will write you up or fire you for saying something, that’s the same thing as it being illegal in these people’s lives. What, you’re going to get fired from teaching to make your point? Why should you get fired over something the majority of posters here feel is your right to “speak or express”? The issue should be nothing on the horizon, but apparently we’ve caved so far in Political Correctness that people are loosing their jobs over Freedom of Expression now. I think one person said it best, it’s the intention of saying something nice….”if you get offended by someone that wishes you a merry Christmas, then you must get offended when a complete stranger says, “God bless you” when you sneeze.”

One last point: it’s NOT a waste of time for our law makers……they are supposed to listen to us………and quite a few of us have expressed similar feelings on the subject. Now let’s get it taken care of, so we can get to the other very important issues raised.

By butch

January 30, 2007 3:46 PM | Link to this

the jehovah witness is behind it all

By Eric

January 30, 2007 3:47 PM | Link to this

Work is not the place to express your religious or political convictions. Work is the place where you do what you are told for a paycheck. Get over it.

By Greg

January 30, 2007 3:48 PM | Link to this

It is sad that this is what our legislators are spending time on. Please, voters… someone hold these people under the gold dome accountable.

this text will be bolded Christians, here is a question for you: Do you believe that Allah is the same God that Christians worship?

This should get some real interesting responses…

By Deborah

January 30, 2007 3:49 PM | Link to this

Why is that people feel they have to have the right to say Merry Christmas to people they don’t know and don’t know if that person celebrates Christmas. Say MC to people you know and Happy Holidays to those you don’t know. Or just keep your mouth shut if you don’t know the person and what they believe. This is a ridiculous law from a ridiculous legislature in a ridiculous state.

We have major problems in this state, air pollution (Atlanta was just named the worst city in the country for asthma sufferers); horrible traffic congestion, failing schools. I could go on and on…..

By Greg

January 30, 2007 3:51 PM | Link to this

Outstanding response D. I want to go back and erase my entry, because you nailed it. Thank you.

By Darrell

January 30, 2007 3:53 PM | Link to this

Christmas is a matter of the heart, not of mere words, so regardless of what the Georgia legislature does or doesn’t do to “protect” them, the words “Merry Christmas” will always have significance and meaning.

By ga_tech_92

January 30, 2007 3:54 PM | Link to this

Allah - GOD 1a — used in Islam It’s one and the same. Though, I’m not a hard-core Christian. I’m still searching…

Deborah - Merry Christmas. You are WAY too uptight.

By ga_tech_92

January 30, 2007 4:00 PM | Link to this

Let’s all take Deborah’s suggested view on “Freedom of Speech” - “just keep your mouth shut if you don’t know the person and what they believe. This is a ridiculous.” I agree, that is ridiculous.

By Weiuca Habersham

January 30, 2007 4:00 PM | Link to this

I see that you yankees fail to grasp the importance that we Southerners attach to our Christian roots. We will be able to preach where ever we may be, so God help us all.

By Deborah

January 30, 2007 4:02 PM | Link to this

ga tech 92 - if I’m uptight, it’s because I’m tired of my tax dollars being wasted on BS while the city I live in keeps deteriorating around me.

By Rob

January 30, 2007 4:04 PM | Link to this

All of you “Christians” who are so worried about stores not recognizing Merry Christmas in their displays need to wake up. Christmas as a religious holiday is not about trees, toys, and candy. Go to church and sing Merry Christmas to your heart’s content. Stores and trying to make money and them recognizing that there are many holidays in the holiday season makes business sense. Offending their customers does not!!!!

By ga_tech_92

January 30, 2007 4:04 PM | Link to this

“We have major problems in this state, air pollution (Atlanta was just named the worst city in the country for asthma sufferers); horrible traffic congestion, failing schools. I could go on and on…..”

*agree these are important issues

By snd

January 30, 2007 4:04 PM | Link to this

How about fixing PeachCare, Transportation and Education instead of pandering to people’s emotions with this drivel.

By ClayH

January 30, 2007 4:06 PM | Link to this

I despise political correctness. Anyone greeting me with “Happy Holidays” will get “kiss my #@%%” in return.

By R. S.

January 30, 2007 4:06 PM | Link to this

MERRY CHRISTMAS,MERRY CHRISTMAS,MERRY CHRISTMAS, I’m American, I live in America, we didn’t ask you to come here, if it offends you, LEAVE !!

By ProudAmericanNationalist

January 30, 2007 4:08 PM | Link to this

In theory, the 1st Amendment should alleviate the need for this kind of legislation. Unfortunately, the socialist-Left has little regard for the Constitution (as do the fake conservative, pro-Globalist “NeoCONs”).

(http://www.jbs.org)

By JustPeachy

January 30, 2007 4:10 PM | Link to this

There are far more serious matters in this state which should be addressed in this session than whether or not someone has the kahoonas to say what they want, when they want. Free Speech is only Free Speech when people EXERCISE IT and don’t hold back in fear of hurting someone’s feelings. Man Up Georgia Legislature. Find something else to talk about.

By DwayneL

January 30, 2007 4:13 PM | Link to this

My daughter’s winter orchestra concery 2 years ago (in Fulton County) actually had the following in the program for a very well know Christmas song, “We wish you a happy holidays”! The song title is “We wish you a Merry Christmas”, but the PC police thought that might offend someone. I am so sick and tired of this PC crap and I will always say Merry Christmas loudly for all to hear.

By R.S.

January 30, 2007 4:16 PM | Link to this

I has the right to say what I pleaeses, and I can marry my cousins agin if i wont, its nun of yer bizness!

Amerika, f* yeah!

By ClayH

January 30, 2007 4:21 PM | Link to this

Happy Holidays, everyone!

By Analyze This

January 30, 2007 4:21 PM | Link to this

By saying it’s politically incorrect to say Merry Christmas, etc. because it infringes on the rights of others, you are taking away MY right to say it, celebrate and embrace it. Why should the minority rule the majority?

By Eric

January 30, 2007 4:24 PM | Link to this

Dwayne, if you’re sick and tired, you ought to go to bed and quit whining.

By PC Sux

January 30, 2007 4:25 PM | Link to this

To show how “freedom of speech” has fallen apart…I was confronted on MY property by police concerning a complaint. I cursed, and they told me if I did it again, they would arrest me! I told them to “go ahead, m.f.’s, and I’ll see you in court”. They left.

By Eric

January 30, 2007 4:27 PM | Link to this

Analyze This: Perhaps you should take American Govt class again. That’s the way our system is designed. As a constitutional republic, there are checks to protect the minority from the tyranny of the majority.

By WhoCares

January 30, 2007 4:30 PM | Link to this

Why do people make such a big deal over christmas? If all of these so-called Christians really paid attentiona and read their bibles all of you would know that Jesus was not born in December and, that this a pagan holiday for the Sun God. I think saying ‘Happy Holidays’ would be much better. Then we wouldn’t be confusing children. Christmas has become way too commerical. This is the time of the year where everyone in business gets to boost their bottom line. Instead of worrying about what to say during the season, how about coming up with a valid reason as to why we should be celebrating this day like its Jesus’ birthday. Get real people!!!

Shouldn’t our government be worrying about real issues. And people should remember America has and always will be a melting pot. So people are always going to debate about certain things and, we are not always going to believe in the same things; as well we shouldn’t. Afterall, this is the place where people run in search of the so-called ‘American Dream’ (by the way I’m still trying to make this dream reality for me and, I am American).

By ga_tech_92

January 30, 2007 4:30 PM | Link to this

Analyze This - thank you - that was perfect -

By Common Sense

January 30, 2007 4:34 PM | Link to this

Folks, the constitutional issue with this legislation, if indeed it reads as is reported here, is not religious in nature. It’s a free speech question…plain and simple.

“…prohibit all state and county government agencies and school boards from barring people from saying “Merry Christmas,” “Happy Hanukkah,” or any other holiday expression.”

Much like government cannot (under most circumstances) compel speech, it cannot prohibit speech either. Because this is well-established law, the current legislation is redundant to the extent it proposes to preclude governmental agencies from precluding speech.

The clear constitutional problem is that the legislation is content specific with regard to the speech it prohibits from being prohibited without presenting compelling basis for doing so. (If this is confusing, thank Rep. Cox for drafting circular legislation.) To withstand constitutional scrutiny, speech prohibitions should be content neutral; and even then if they are related to a legitimate governmental purpose. Note that the government must affirmatively prove said purpose. Conjecture is inappropriate as is a non-legitimate governmental purpose such as the establishment of religion.

By DEWtotheleft

January 30, 2007 4:47 PM | Link to this

The only thing more ridiculous than having a law give you a right to exercise something that is already a right….is to have someone tell you that you cannot exercise the right in the first place…Maybe if we all had a family member drafted, we would all have something more important to think about on a daily basis….

By renuka

January 30, 2007 4:47 PM | Link to this

I say Merry Christmas to you all. You don’t want Christmas, then leave the land.

By Stephen

January 30, 2007 4:49 PM | Link to this

Interesting new law…What if someone’s religious belief is “Philogentarian” and their holiday greeting is “F— You!” It seems this makes makes this perfectly legal and makes it illegal to bar any “Philogentarian” from saying in it public. Interesting…

By roger

January 30, 2007 4:57 PM | Link to this

The good ole GOP. They’re beginning to make Georgia look backwards. The faster we can vote them out of office the better. How about concentrating on solving real problems such as rapid transit, highways, and the sorts. But the previous issues cause you to have an education an common sense, something this leadership is lacking.

By Najeh Davenpoop

January 30, 2007 5:13 PM | Link to this

I’m not Christian, but I could care less if someone wishes me a Merry Christmas, Happy Hanukkah, Happy Kwanzaa, or whatever. If a government worker wants to wish me Merry Christmas, that’s fine — regardless of whether someone says Merry Christmas or Happy Holidays, they are wishing you well, so be thankful for that. But seeing as how there’s something called the First Amendment that already protects freedom of speech for everyone, including government officials, this bill is just another way for legislators to waste their time on non-issues instead of dealing with Georgia’s real problems.

And it’s really quite pathetic that the Christian right feels like their religion is being persecuted, despite the fact that Christians are a larger percentage of the world’s population than any other religion, and despite the fact that Christians comprise over 3/4 of the religious population of America, and despite the fact that the American constitution expressly gives Christians as much freedom of religion as any other religion. Right now, Christian missionaries in developing countries are holding more forced mass conversions than members of any other religion (yes, including Islam). The very idea that Christians in the United States of America are being persecuted is laughable and idiotic, and shows how out of touch some Americans are with the real suffering going on in the world. In fact, by complaining about religious persecution in this country, you are showing disrespect to the United States by taking your own considerable religious freedom for granted.

By fred

January 31, 2007 9:24 AM | Link to this

Don’t let Boortz hear about this again,he’ll talk about on his “Listen to Me Only,Show” for a week!

By GB

January 31, 2007 11:54 AM | Link to this

Representative Cox, Please stop wasting my tax dollars.

By Granda

January 31, 2007 12:22 PM | Link to this

Happy holidays correctly defines the occasion as a holi-day. Correct, 25th December is a pagan celebration. Who cares if someone says Happy Holidays or Merry Xmas. STOP WASTING MY TAXES ON THIS NONSENSE

By Granda

January 31, 2007 12:27 PM | Link to this

By renuka

It would be the end of the USA if everyone who didn’t believe in your religion had to leave the land. What utter nonsense. Do you have the I.Q. of a flea?

“one’s liberty ends where someone else’s begins, as if there is a border between freedoms, and where yours start, mine stop” French Revolution — which incidently broke the back of cruel enforced nonsensical gobbledygook in the name of religion.

By King of the hill

January 31, 2007 12:36 PM | Link to this

Jason, you must be a black person that still thinks that he has no rights and is still a slave. GET a LIFE. One of the reasons we have so many problems in this country, is we try to accomadate everyone. Saying Merry Christmas has been around since the beginning of time in our Country. I say that if things like this bother people in this country, move back to the one you came from. Hurry please you are probably TERRIOSITS anyway. We as a country should hunt you down and kill you as a threat to the USA.

By Vicki

February 1, 2007 12:27 PM | Link to this

Hurray for Rep. Cox!! It’s a sad day when this bill is necessary but it absolutely is. Christmas, Christianity and our traditional culture are being attacked at every turn. God help us all.

By Greg

February 1, 2007 2:55 PM | Link to this

My God. The ignorance displayed by some on this page is breathtaking. “If you don’t like merry Christmas, why don’t you just leave, you are proabably a terrorist anyway”; “Anyone who greets me with ‘happy holidays’ will get a ‘kiss my a$$’ in return”? This is Christian behavior? If so, THIS Christian wants no part of it. You practice your brand of hateful, exclusive Christianity. The rest of us will continue trying to live a life of love for all of God’s children, not just those who believe in him. I seem to remember that someone important taught us that lesson long ago.