Sequoia sempervirens, originally uploaded by brewbooks.

Seattle University officials have invited the community to join them for this year’s lighting of the SU ‘holiday’ tree, a giant Sequoia tree in the middle of campus that some believe should be left alone and not damaged by another year of decorating. UPDATE: Seattle U tells us the decision was made to light a different campus tree — so, no controversy, just holiday cheer!

From SU’s The Spectator:

 “If you look at the tree, you will see that it is dying … it’s browning at the top” said David Madsen, associate professor of history and  medieval studies.

A few other members of the faculty expressed their concerns about the tree lighting to the Spectator after word of the cost circulated. Madsen notes that he got messages from approximately 15 other staff members in response to an email voicing his concern sent to both the Spectator and many members of the faculty.

“My main concern is the environmental stress on the tree. Half of the root structure is paved over – which is not ideal … does it make sense to add more stress?” said Gordon Miller, director of environmental studies who expressed similar concerns about the health of the tree – though he was unaware what the exact cause of the browning was.

Nothing like a moral dilemma to get your holidays started right. For a less ambiguous holiday experience, add another source of December greenery to the list of Hill tree lots we published earlier this week.

18th Ave East’s Stevens Elementary is hosting its annual tree sale and pancake breakfast this weekend:

On December 4, 2010, the PTA will host a sale of holiday decorations, including trees, greenery, and Hannukah or Kwanzaa candles, as well as a very popular Pancake Breakfast for the community. Breakfast is served from 8:30-10:30am, the cost is $6. Pre-ordered trees and holiday greenery will be available for pickup from 9-11am, and the general sale is from 11am-4pm.

Even if you’d rather not kill a tree, you can light a candle. And eat a pancake.