(This letter was sent to Father Nick Zientarski and to the Manhasset Press for publication.)

Shock and dismay are the two words that come to mind after hearing about the remarks made by Supervisor Jon Kaiman regarding the blessing during the Annual Christmas Tree Lighting at Mary Jane Davies Green in Manhasset.

There seems to be a trend in trying to take the "Christmas" out of the holidays as well as taking the "Christ "out of Christmas.

We celebrate the holidays at this time of year for one reason and that is "Christmas." Christmas is a religious holiday. How are we to downplay that or change it to be more generic? Why should that be done? To make non-Christians more comfortable?

My family and I are happy to celebrate any holiday for any faith if invited to do so. We have been to Greek and Jewish celebrations and have enjoyed them immensely.

It is very disturbing that an elected official would behave so rudely and disrespectfully of others' celebrations. It is obvious that Jon Kaiman has little tolerance for Christmas. The tree lighting and Santa on the fire truck have been a Manhasset tradition for years. Since this town is mostly Christian it is appropriate. If there were a celebration for another faith that would be wonderful too. We should not have to water down our beliefs. We need to embrace them and to celebrate the differences in our communities, not try to meld them into one diluted celebration.

It is a shame that this has occurred but it could be the catalyst that opens up a dialogue that is long overdue. I hope that we can all work towards gaining a better understanding of each other's beliefs and values and respect and esteem our differences. Merry Christmas.

Lorraine McIntosh