Christmas trees banned

OFFICIALS in a Florida county have banned Christmas trees from public buildings after the top lawyer decided they were religious symbols.

Dozens of people have complained to the Pasco County, north of Tampa, and a constitutional law group urged it to reverse its decision.

“This whole thing is silly. It floors me,” said Marijane Graham, 67, of Dade City.

“I’m sure there are atheists celebrating Christmas somewhere just for the spirit of giving.

“I’ve never read about a Christmas tree in the Bible, or Santa for that matter.”

The last of the Christmas trees was removed on Wednesday, said Dan Johnson, assistant county administrator for public services. Trees in “semi-private” areas, such as personal offices, were allowed to remain.