Gregoire said Hanson "continued to press the issue" of whether a Christmas tree was offensive when everyone present agreed with the committee policy and the decision to have a tree in the dining hall.

The house chairs agreed that Hanson's question should have included all religions.

"If you're really going to tackle the issue, you should ask if any holiday symbols are offensive," Galanek said. "The topic was holiday decorations, not the Christmas tree."

"I don't think he meant it that way. I hope he didn't," Harte said. "I appreciate the fact that they are so concerned with how students feel."

Harte would not comment on Gregoire's decision to file a complaint against Hanson.

Gregoire and sources inside the house alleged that Hanson was using his power over funds for the upcoming house formal to manipulate house policy on the holiday decorations.

Hanson granted money for the house formal right before the meeting, prompting speculation that the house master was making the formal grant contingent on the house committee acceding to his wishes on the holiday decorations.

Harte dismissed that speculation. "That's not true," he said. "I would not think anyone would do that--especially a master."

Galanek said funds for the formal were still being worked out last night. She would not confirm rumors of manipulation by Hanson.

"I think that is only speculations," Galanek said. "It worked out that today right before was a meeting about formal funds. I cannot speak of Hanson's motivations but it seems to be coincidental."