Schwarzenegger Puts Christmas Back in Christmas

CNN reports that Wal-Mart is no longer afraid of using the term "Christmas" inside its stores. After a boycott from religious groups, the retailer is telling employees that greeting customers with a hearty "Merry Christmas" instead of "Happy Holidays" is perfectly acceptable.

Well, thank Ganesha! Purchasing plastic stuff from Wal-Mart is so much more meaningful now.

Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger faced similar pressure from conservatives a few years ago when he dubbed the state Christmas Tree a "Holiday Tree." He didn't seem to care too much, but this year "Christmas" is back in his public statement about the holiday.

2006: "Maria and I wish every Californian a Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays."

2005: "I want to wish all Californians a happy holiday season and encourage every one to focus on the importance of giving back to one another not only during this time of year, but in their every day lives."

2004: "As we celebrate this holiday season we have much to be thankful for as Californians."

2003: “I am pleased to join the people of California in celebrating this holiday season and thank all of the organizations and individuals that made this ceremony possible." - Schwarzenegger. (This is the year his office called it a "Holiday Tree," but they changed it to "Christmas Tree" in subsequent headlines.)

I've been getting cards from various politicos. Assembly Speaker Fabian Nunez sent out one with a photograph of his attractive family. The outside says "Peace on Earth" and "Holiday Wishes." Lt. Gov.-elect John Garamendi's card features his nine adorable grandchildren and "Peace on Earth." Commies!

(Photo: Rich Pedroncelli / AP)