(Editor's Note: This letter was written in response to Hempstead Town Supervisor Kate Murray's Nov. 30 Around the Town column, entitled Annual Tree, Kwanzaa and Menorah Lighting Ceremony.)

I seem to be a little confused. I understand Kwanzaa and Menorah, but Annual Tree lighting eludes me. Somehow it doesn't fit. Oak tree, Elm tree or sturdy Maple tree, maybe? Annual Tree you plant on Arbor Day? What happened to the old reliable Christmas Tree? But wait, a few suggestions: Holiday Tree, Seasonal Tree, December 25 Tree, Tree Dujour, That Special Day Tree, make up your own. Christmas tree, that's what it is. It is a Christmas tree! Oh, and by the way, I noticed in that entire column, politically correct Supervisor Kate Murray avoided the word Christmas altogether. Perhaps she didn't want to offend anyone, get them upset or hurt one's feelings or alienate the voter for the next time she runs for public office. Guess what, Supervisor Murray? You offended, upset and lost my support. Merry Christmas.

JM Pantatello