Such fuss over a Christmas tree. The Statehouse’s annual Christmas tree has arrived, but some are thinking it’s a bit skimpy. The tree arrived Monday to begin its preparation to be put on official display in front of the Confederate monument facing Main Street. However, some onlookers say the tree needs a little help.

This year’s tree, which came from Pennsylvania, appears to have branches trimmed off and a big hole in it. Perhaps it’s just another budget trimming project.  Jane Suggs of the Columbia Garden Club told the State newspaper that they call it a “recession tree,” because it is smaller and less expensive. Some are calling it the Charlie Brown Christmas tree.

Charlie Brown recalled some advice from his friend, “Linus is right. I won’t let all this commercialism ruin my Christmas.”

SCE&G's Brian Gunter strings lights

The Columbia Garden Club and the South Carolina Garden Club pay for the state Christmas tree, not taxpayers. The Columbia Garden Club decorates it, with members volunteering their time and energy. The Columbia Garden Club is working with SCE&G to put up decorations.

Garden Clubs from around the state have come to help with the decorating. According to Mary Rivers, a Denmark Garden Club member, the large wreath will once again don the front of the State House after having been missing for four years. Rivers tells that the OSHA regulations had prevented workers from taking the narrow pathway around the top of the building to the front for hanging the wreath.

Sandra Kelley of Easley prepares bows for Statehouse lamps

This year SCANA will bring a large crane to reach the front of the building. She says, “When all is said and done, the tree will be beautiful.”