Reader Feedback: Merry Christmas or Happy Holidays

Last week Patch asked its readers should "Merry Christmas" or "Happy Holidays" be the official greeting of the season?

And Lindenhurst residents responded with what they thought on Lindenhurst Patch's Facebook page.

They joined many of their fellow readers, who, to date, racked up a total of 72 comments and 299 responses (204 or 68 percent for Merry Christmas and 95 or 31 percent for Happy Holidays) on the .

(See below for the original poll questions posed, and weigh in with what you think.)

It was clear that whichever stance residents took on the issue, it was something felt strongly, and something that clearly struck a chord with many. In fact, it made the of Patch Sound Off topics.

Here's what Lindy residents had to say about the issue - which included thoughts about the whether a should be called a Christmas tree or Holiday tree:

Kim Sullivan-Hofmann: "Technically we don't live in a 'Christian Nation.' We live in a nation of all faiths. This is what started our nation: the pursuit of religious freedom. As far as the Holiday Tree goes, it is a Christmas Tree, just like a Menorah isn't a Holiday Candelabra.

"Wish everyone Happy Holidays. If you happen to notice they are wearing a cross, Christmas Tree or a Star of David, then greet accordingly. Just be thankful that someone wished you well during a festive time of year."

Jennifer Leigh Velez: "Happy Holidays! And Kwanzaa, too! Don't forget about the other holidays besides Hannukah and Christmas." 

Nanci Newland-Gasparine: "Festivus for the rest of us! Lol."

Paul Schmidt: "Merry Christmas, dammit, from Gumby."

Ed N Tara White: "Kim, you are so right! 's is called a holiday tree. No, it is not. It is a Christmas tree!"

Rose Gerbino: "I say both, but as far as the tree goes, it is a Christmas tree not a holiday tree."

David J. Bradbury: "Merry Christmas"

Do you agree? Disagree? Should "Merry Christmas" or "Happy Holidays" be the official greeting of the season? Something else, no official greeting or greet according to what a person celebrates?

Should a tree be called a Holiday tree or Christmas tree when it comes to a public lighting ceremony?

And is there really a "War on Christmas," or has the media blown the issue out of proportion?

Vote in the the original poll , and share your opinions in the comments below, or on Facebook and Twitter, or e-mail barbara.loehr@patch.com. 

(And be sure to check out our column for a look at celebrating the holidays in Lindenhurst, plus a roundup of other pertinent information residents need to know this holiday season.)