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The Significance of the Three Gold Balls: St. Nicholas and Pawnbrokers

Michael Rielly, August 19, 2023

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Throughout history, symbols have served as carriers of meaning, transcending cultural and temporal boundaries. One such enduring symbol is the three gold balls, a motif commonly linked with pawn shops. The story behind this emblem, however, traces its origins back to St. Nicholas of Myra. Delving into the intertwined stories of St. Nicholas and pawnbrokers sheds light on the profound legacy of the three gold balls. The Legend of St. Nicholas of Myra St. Nicholas was born in the late third century AD in the city of Patara, in what is now Turkey. His wealthy parents died in an epidemic, and Nicholas inherited their fortune. However, rather than luxuriating in his wealth, he became famous for his generous gifts to the poor. One of the most well-known stories about St. Nicholas tells of a poor man with three daughters. Without sufficient dowries, the daughters were destined to remain unmarried, leaving them vulnerable in their society. On three different occasions, Nicholas secretly threw a bag of gold coins into their home, providing each daughter with a dowry and ensuring their well-being. The Three Gold Balls and Pawnbrokers The tale of St. Nicholas's clandestine act of kindness was passed down through the ages, and the three bags of gold he gifted became symbolic of his benevolence. Over time, these bags were artistically represented as gold balls. In medieval Europe, the practice of lending money in exchange for items of value was becoming a common business, giving birth to the modern pawnbroker. Early pawn shops in Italy were said to have adopted the symbol of the three gold balls as a sign of their trade. This could have been an attempt to align their businesses with the charitable image of St. Nicholas, signifying trustworthiness and benevolence. The Medici family, a prominent banking family in Florence during the Renaissance, also used the three golden orbs in their coat of arms. As their banking influence spread across Europe, so too did the adoption of the three-ball symbol, further cementing the association with monetary exchange and lending. Today, the three gold balls hang outside pawn shops in cities and towns around the world. They are not just an advertisement for business but also a nod to a history that merges ancient tales of generosity with the evolution of European finance. Symbols possess the power to weave together stories from different epochs, turning them into emblems that are rich in history and significance. The three gold balls, with their dual association with St. Nicholas's generosity and the world of pawnbroking, are a testament to the intricate web of stories that shapes our cultural landscape. The next time you pass by a pawn shop and notice those three golden orbs hanging outside, remember the saintly figure whose acts of kindness left an enduring mark on history.
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Is Zat You Santa Claus?

Michael Rielly, March 4, 2023

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Over the years, the Santa Claus community has experienced significant changes, leading many to view the portrayal of Santa Claus as more like a cosplay performance than a traditional holiday tradition. Although this evolution has brought about new opportunities for entertainment, creativity, and charitable work, it is not without its potential dangers to the tradition of Santa Claus. One of the main dangers of the Santa Claus community's shift toward a cosplay-like atmosphere is the potential for losing sight of the original meaning and purpose of the tradition. Santa Claus has always been a beloved figure associated with generosity, kindness, and the spirit of giving. However, with the focus shifting toward elaborate costumes, performances, and competitions, it is possible that these fundamental aspects of the Santa Claus tradition may be overshadowed or lost entirely. Furthermore, there is a risk of diluting the authenticity and credibility of the Santa Claus portrayal. While it is understandable that individuals want to personalize their portrayal of Santa Claus, the over-the-top costumes, excessive makeup, and unrealistic prosthetics can lead to a caricature rather than a genuine portrayal. This may cause confusion or even disillusionment for children who look up to Santa Claus as a magical and real figure. Another danger of the cosplay-like atmosphere is the risk of commercialization. As with any popular trend or subculture, there is a danger of companies and marketers exploiting the Santa Claus community for financial gain. Merchandising and branding can take away from the charitable and generous nature of the tradition, and detract from the magic and wonder that Santa Claus represents. Lastly, the cosplay-like atmosphere can also have a negative impact on the mental and emotional well-being of Santa Claus actors. The pressure to maintain an appearance, perform well, and be available for long hours during the holiday season can be overwhelming and stressful. There is a risk of burnout or disillusionment among Santa Claus actors, leading to a decline in the quality of portrayals and a lack of enthusiasm for the tradition. While the Santa Claus community's evolution into a cosplay-like subculture has brought new opportunities for entertainment, creativity, and charitable work, there are also potential dangers to the tradition. Losing sight of the original meaning and purpose of the tradition, diluting the authenticity and credibility of the portrayal, commercialization, and burnout among actors are all risks that must be taken seriously. To maintain the magic and wonder of Santa Claus for future generations, it is important to strike a balance between tradition and innovation, creativity and authenticity, and entertainment and philanthropy.
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Look behind us, there's Santa!

Santa Lou, August 31, 2022

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I was leaving the airplane and walking down the gangway when the little girl’s mother said, “Look behind us, there’s Santa.” I quickly said “hello” when we entered the plane and gave the little girl and her brother some “I met Santa Claus” Stickers. Mom and the kids had seats up front extremely near the first-Class section. Although they were about ten rows in front of us throughout the flight little heads were popping up and waving to me. Of course, our waving back and forth put smiles on a lot of passengers but I’m sure I detected a “Grinch” among the smiling faces. I replied to the mother's remark, by telling both children, “be good now, it’s getting close to Christmas.’’ To my surprise the little girl said. “I will, I promise not to bite anymore!” I wasn’t quite prepared for her remark, however, the mother standing behind the kids was giving me thumbs up and mouthing the biggest “thank you” I have ever seen. I had to chuckle as they happily made their way to the outstretched arms of relatives. When things of this nature happen I am reminded of the powerful influence Santa has on children. We are drawing close to the most magical season of the year, and we need to start polishing our “Santa Persona.” Remember, the child on your knee deserves to have the most memorable Santa experience that a child may have. Do you ever give any thought to what you look like, say, or do which will be remembered for a lifetime? Children are impressionable; what kind of impression is that child going to have of you? You are charged with an awesome responsibility that should not be taken lightly. Think about your performance as Santa. Do you quickly go through the motions with one child after another? I am extremely disappointed when I am hired for a social function and the client elaborates “We were so disappointed in last year’s Santa, He hardly talked to the children, and He wasn’t at all what we expected.” I have also heard of Santas who could not interact with the audience which made for a quiet party. If you are a reluctant Santa who is uncomfortable in a crowd, you may need to consider some improvisational or acting lessons. Portraying Santa is a fun job and if you are not having fun you need to find out why. Putting on the Red Suit does not automatically make you Santa Claus. It is the person in the suit who brings “Santa” to life and makes believers of all who see him. There has been a rush of men who wish to portray Santa, many for the reason they will make a lot of money. Yes, there are several Santas who make a nice income however, there are a majority who just cover expenses while some do this for the love of children. There is an art to being Santa gotten through experience, being observant, and attending the offerings of Santa schools or Mentors. When I say “Santa Schools” I am referring to established offerings of educational and professional instruction. I do not mean some those “Charlatans” promising how to mine the riches without learning the basics or ethics of portraying Santa. If money is your motive you have put the proverbial “cart before the horse.” Santas who are in demand have developed a clientele; they have made the Santa experience one to remember. In doing so have earned new and repeat business, commanding fees readily paid for their services. This season, let us be the best Santas the public will see. Let us make every child’s visit a memorable experience, one they will fondly retell to their children and grandchildren. Each of us has the ability to do this. Let us make this the best season you have had in bringing joy to each child; not in terms of how many jobs you can do. Remember, “It’s not about you, It’s about the Children.” Santa Lou Knezevich is the creator of the Legendary Santas Mentoring Program Contact Santa Lou at: LegendarySantasMentoringProg@gmail.com
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A Little Bit of Magic

Santa Lou, August 19, 2022

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So many times I have heard Santas say they can’t perform or entertain a group of people. If you’ve ever said that I’m sure you believe it, but there are many things to help you to become a sought-after Santa. Most people are familiar with the story of the Polar Express. The boy in the story is taken to the North Pole aboard a train called the Polar Express. There, he meets Santa Claus who selects him as the recipient of the first gift of Christmas. He asks for a bell from the reindeer's harness. Listening to the tinkle of the bell the boy “believes in Santa Claus.” Unfortunately, the bell disappears through a hole in his robe and he is very disappointed. On Christmas morning one small box remains to be opened. When the boy opens the box there is the bell with a note from Santa who found the bell in his sleigh. The moral of the story is to “Believe” that anything is possible. Gather an adult and a few children around you. Ask everyone if they know the story of the Polar Express. Pick someone to tell everyone what the Polar Express is about. You then tell everyone you’re sure they “believe” but you have a “magic stocking of bells.” This is found at most any store. It is a simple hanging Christmas Socking in which I have sewn a matching fabric separating the front and back of the stocking Ask each person to reach into the stocking and draw out a bell. You, of course, make sure they can only reach into the compartment with the ringing bells. Make sure each shows the bell and rings it so everyone knows they believe! Now it’s time to have some fun. When you come to the adult make sure to close the compartment for the ringing bells and open the compartment holding the bells without clappers. When the adult pulls out the bell ask them to “shake it real loud, even louder.” I act dumbfounded because the bell they pulled does not ring. “Do you believe in Santa Claus?” you ask. I scratch my head and say, “let’s go on to the next person to see if this is still working!” Of course, the bell works for everyone else and going back to the adult I say. “I think you need another chance so let’s try again.” This time I open the compartment with the ringing bells and when they are pulling one out, everyone claps. This magic trick incorporates a bit of storytelling and takes very little practice plus; it has a big effect on the audience. The trick involves a special Christmas stocking that may be purchased from an online magic shop. The stocking is divided into two sections and by moving your fingers you can close or open one of the sections. I happened to find at the Dollar Store a gaily decorated Christmas stocking into which the magic stocking fitted perfectly. You will also need some bells which can be purchased by the bag full at stores like Michael's, Joann’s, or the Dollar Store. Separate the bells into two groups. In one group take the clapper (the little ball) out of each bell by carefully prying the end open. Carefully re-close the prongs of the bell and do the same for all the bells in this group. Before any bells are put in the bag slip a ribbon through the end of the bell to hold onto and shake the bell. Open one compartment of the stocking and fill it with a handful of bells without the clapper. This should be the compartment facing the audience. Fill the compartment facing you with the bells which will not ring. You’re ready to go! With just a little practice you can do this trick smoothly and to the enjoyment of everyone. Who said, "you can't entertain?" Santa Lou Knezevich is the creator of the Legendary Santas Mentoring Program Contact Santa Lou at: LegendarySantasMentoringProg@gmail.com
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10 Essentials to Being a Better Santa

Santa Lou, October 7, 2021

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Here are some DOs and DON'Ts on being Santa Treat every child with respect. Never make fun of a child. Look into the child’s eyes when you speak to them. Speak softly. Children are sharing confidences with you. Acknowledge a child’s requests even if you don’t understand them. Never promise a toy request to avoid a child’s disappointment. Never promise a pet. Santas a toymaker and only animals produce pets. If the child can’t remember their wish list, assure them you know what they want. Never leave a child wondering if Santa heard their Christmas wishes. Every child worries about being on Santas “Naughty or Nice List”. Tell each child “You’re on the “Nice List.” It will bring happiness to everyone!    Santa Lou Knezevich is the creator of the Legendary Santas Mentoring Program Contact Santa Lou at: LegendarySantasMentoringProg@gmail.com
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I never learned about the Santa Secret Handshake

Santa Lou, September 2, 2021

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I was reflecting over my career as Santa Claus and how I may offer some worthwhile advice to those in their beginning years. Many years ago, I was eager to learn and naïve to learn how to be a Santa. I live in Atlanta, and I found a weekend Santa School being held locally. Sitting at my table was Santa Tom who also was a new Santa and across from us two Santas who obviously knew where the Reindeer Barn was located. Before the class started my curiosity [and naïve] got the better of me and I asked the Santas, “what are we going to learn today?’’ I think the Santa’s both had a wink in their eyes, pleased to answer my request. They both remarked what a wonderful experience this would be. In fact, they said, we would learn something in this class which we would never forget! As they leaned forward and quietly whispered, they said we would learn the “Santa Secret Handshake.” The weekend was loaded with information, and I took it all in while waiting to hear about “Santas Secret Handshake.” Well, I don’t think Santa Tom bought into this tale and as we left on Sunday, he laughed when I said, “I never found out what the Secret Santa Handshake, was all about?” Yes, I was gullible, and I have learned if it’s too good to be true, it probably isn’t true! Right now, you can find just about anything by searching the internet, costumes may be found from the least expensive to those costing thousands of dollars. If you are a good Santa, one who has a heart, people are not going to see your costume, unless it’s torn or ratty. I’m stating this, as you begin your career you should be focused on how and what you do as a Santa Claus. Being focused, means, you transform yourself into acting and mimicking what Santa would do. I have always related my Santa role as if I were a big kid. That may sound strange to you however, being a kid, I can say and do things that children relate to and expect of Santa. I think the moral of this is I don’t talk down to children. They are my audience, and my job is to leave them with a joyful experience. I have a few ideas I would like to leave with you concerning appearance. One of my departed, best friends, had a huge walrus-type mustache. Occasionally we would meet for breakfast and his mustache would attract the yellow yokes of his eggs. It was also difficult to see his lips move when he spoke. I often wondered what a child thought as he spoke to them. It may be wise to trim your mustache to not make it difficult for children to speak with you. Santa is one of the most photographed people in the world. However, I am most disappointed to see bare wrists with wristwatches and rings showing. Check yourself over before you pose for pictures. A tubular cloth sleeve will discreetly cover your forearm, so no skin shows and it will blend with your costume. That goes for boot cuffs too. Don’t sew them to the bottom of your trousers as it makes you look like a clown. Keep at it as I know you are going to be the best Santa there is!
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A Night in the Emergency Room

Santa Lou, August 3, 2021

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A few days ago I spent an evening, or should I say almost 15 hours, in the local Emergency Room. My symptoms were shortness of breath and a concern by my physician, to use the ER equipment to make a detailed diagnosis. My younger son drove me from my doctor's office to the ER. When we arrived, I was taken aback by the amount of people waiting or lined up to be seen by the staff. I did not realize how the COVID-19 virus and new strain had impacted the community. The average wait to see a doctor was at 8-12 hours however, it was more like 15 hours. At the time I did not know all the hospitals were in a crisis of not having enough beds to handle the patients. In fact, some patients were transported from my ER to another in the city. Unfortunately, they were turned back upon arrival as all hospitals were filled. My son and I heard much of the radio chatter from the hospital security who were close by. During our wait, we witnessed the terrible effects the virus had upon people and the suffering they were experiencing. Moans from those hurting were also part of the coughing spells. My hat is off to the hospital personnel who attend to the sick day in and day out. Our waiting for a bed and a doctor took us until 8:30 am the following morning. I’m okay and will follow up with my cardiologist next week. My thoughts are for the people whom I saw suffering through the night. I want to reach out to those of you who are reluctant, for a host of reasons to have a COVID vaccination. I encourage you to put aside your fears or reasons to get vaccinated. It could save your life and those who you love! You don’t want you to witness what I have seen in the emergency room!
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10 Fun Facts About Sleigh Bells

Rob Thompson, July 8, 2021

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10 Fun Facts About Sleigh Bells The ringing sound of sleigh bells is all too familiar around this time of the year. It’s the official siren signaling in the winter season. While a well-known signature staple on sleighs, Santa suits and reindeer, jingle bells haven’t always been associated with Christmas. They do much more than just ring in holiday cheer. 1. Sleigh bells or jingles bells are a type of bell that produces a distinctive jingle sound. They are in the percussion family of instruments. 2. The bells are made from sheet metal bent into a spherical shape with a small ball bearing or short metal rod placed inside to create the jingle sound. 3. Small bells were known in ancient times. In Sumer, Babylonia, Assyria, and Egypt they were commonly suspended from the trappings of horses, mules, and camels. 4. Centuries ago, sleigh bells were fastened to horses to signal the approach of someone important or to warn pedestrians of an approaching vehicle. Sleighs were unable to stop quickly enough so they needed a warning sound. 5. William Barton opened the first US sleigh bell company in East Hampton, Connecticut in 1810. East Hampton eventually became known as “Belltown” because it produced so many bells. 6. Sleigh bells, or jingles, are rarely used to produce specific pitches. Mozart, however, prescribed this in the third of his Three German Dances K605. 7. The song Jingle Bells, also known as “One Horse Open Sleigh,” is one of the most popular and most recorded songs on Earth. It was written in 1857 by James Lord Pierpont and was originally meant for Thanksgiving. 8. Sleigh bells were one of the first instruments played in space. In 1965, Gemini 6 astronauts Tom Stafford and Wally Schirra, smuggled bells and a harmonica onto their spacecraft and played Jingle Bells for mission control as a light-hearted holiday joke. 9. The affluent ornamentally wore bells as a symbol of wealth and status. 10. In old Pagan beliefs, jingle bells are used to ward off bad luck, diseases, and evil spirits. Today, some motorcyclists strap small bells to their handlebars to ward off road demons. Source: Miki Onwudinjo - Oxford University Press.
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Rangifer Taranadus

Michael Rielly, May 2, 2021

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Reindeer - Rangifer Taranadus Taranadus (R.T. Taranadus) They are cervids from the root group Rangifer Taranadus that included ten species of Reindeer and Caribou. Two of these species are extinct and several of the Caribou such as the North American Woodland Caribou are currently on the watch list for species at risk. REINDEER ARE NOT CARIBOU! although they are cousins. Of the ten species of Rangifer Taranadus, generally three types inhabit continental North America. Two of these are native being the Woodland Caribou and the Barren Ground Caribou. The third is the Eurasian Tundra Reindeer that was introduced by the government to the North American continent in the late 1800's to replace lifestyle losses to the Inuit people of the North. The original influx of Reindeer were brought into North America across the Land Bridge from the USSR. Slightly more than 400 head made up the original group of animals that were walked into the North as part of this project. Reindeer in North America can be DNA matched to the original herd thereby confirming that they are in fact reindeer. While there are many reindeer in the North that live under feral conditions, there are no wild reindeer. Reindeer are acknowledged to be one of, if not the oldest, domesticated animals in the world with history of domestication tracing back between 5000 and 8000 years (depending on the source) They are listed in the Lesser Nine of the fifteen domesticated animals along with camels, llamas, alpacas and elephants. They were once referred to as the "First Meat of Man" and the animals is unique in that both in life and death, the animal is completely useful. As a live animals they provide transportation, haulage, velvet antler for medicines, and milk to name a few. In death, they provide meat, hides for clothing along with products that can be made from the bone and antler. Adult Male reindeer will weigh in at approximately 500 lbs while females top out around 400 lbs. On average they will stand between 8 and 10 hands high (1 Hand = 4 Inches) Both the male and Female produce antlers and they along with the caribou are the only cervid that does this. Antlers regrow each year with the previous years antler being shed from Late November through early May depending on a variety of factors. Male reindeer that are intact breeders will drop the antler anytime after breeding season once their need to establish dominance and attract females has passed. Once the antler has been shed the dominant male will usually become the most subservient member of the herd until the breeding cycle begins again the following year. Steers will usually keep their antlers longer into the New Year but not as long as the females. Bred females usually retain their antlers until the babies are born ensuring them preference to the best feed and leaving them with a level of defense. Antlers will begin to regenerate almost immediately but generally show a growth phase that lasts approximately 4 months. Antlers will grow at a rate of anywhere from 1/2" per day to 1 1/2" per day. Remember that the growth the you see on an animal ALL grew this year. Antlers, while in the growth phase are live tissue and are soft (think Fingernails). They look much like a padded coat hanger and are susceptible to injury. Significant injury to growing antler can result in death from hemorrhage if not attended to. Antlers are never the same but may have a general consistency of style from animal to animal they are rarely symmetrical. The antler grows from pedicules in the skull that firmly anchor the antler until its time to shed. Antlers can be broken or fall off prematurely but there is no real way to determine when and antler will fall. In feral conditions the reindeer along with other animals will normally eat the antler to recapture lost mineral. What is the difference between Antlers and Horns? Generally Antlers are annual ornaments while horns are permanent. Antlers grow from the tip and an injury to the antler at the tip, or involving the tip, may stop all growth for that season. Horns are permanent and not shed each year. They also grow from the base therefore an injury to the end of the horn, or removal such as blunting as used on rodeo bulls, does not affect growth. While there is often a visual difference between the structure and weight of antlers between male and female, that doesn't always prove to be true. Some sources say that only the males will grow a shovel which is a significant protrusion of flat antler off one branch pointing forward. The animals use this to break into heavy crusted snow when foraging for food.
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A Letter to a New Santa

Santa Lou, April 25, 2021

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Dear Santa, You asked me about a few tips for your journey to becoming a Santa Claus. I’m more than happy to do so and I’ve written below just a few items’ which may have interest to you. Above all, becoming a Santa is an investment of your love, time and expense. I’m sure having Grand Kids and Great Grand Kids, plus raising your own family, has shown you the love for children. Being a parent is an excellent qualifier for accepting the behavior of children. As a Santa we see many children who gaze at us with awe struck eyes because we are the weavers of their dreams. Others, particularly around three years old, seem to love us until they are about three feet away, then we become their worst nightmare. Obviously, we can’t always do anything about it. Santa can’t understand every child’s reason for behavior; however, we may know when to try calming them or know when to leave them alone! In time, Santa can usually tell when a child isn’t going to give up their meltdown. He also knows a child in meltdown has an effect upon other children in the room. Meltdowns spread to other children like a grass fire. Remember, one child having a meltdown begets another child to have a meltdown. What you need to do, quickly, is send the child and parents as far away as you can. When or if the child can be calmed, allow them to return at the head of the line. If you don’t like kids this job is not for you. Imagine yourself in a Mall for ten hours, day after day, having child after child on your knee while you happily smile at the camera. The availability of Mall jobs are not around the corner from home. They are out of your city, state, or even out of the country. Yes, the people who hire you may pay expenses; however, this is an item you must negotiate with them. Consider also, you will be away from family during November and up until the Mall closes on December 24th. Some companies which furnish Santas to Malls may provide a Santa costume to wear while most others rely on you providing a costume. When you are out of town miscellaneous expenses or food may cost you, too. You may want to find a company which provides Santas for parties and special events. These Santa agencies do the work for you by finding events and hiring you out to them. Of course they charge a fee for their services which is usually calculated upon the charge to the customer. For many Santas who are reluctant to market themselves this is a convenient method. You must remember the client is the property of the company you are working for which means that you can’t solicit the account. This may be a good way to break into the Santa business and to find out what various jobs maybe. Friends, church and hospital are places you may find work or through a friend or a family connection. This is helpful for you as it is another way to start performing. Your church may also be a good place to start. I mentioned hospitals to forewarn you this is not an easy task. So many Santas feel the need to attend a child in a hospital bed, however, walking into a hospital room and seeing a child with a serious illness brings home the point of facing life and death. I once saw a little girl and I was lucky she smiled with me over a story I was reading to her. Within four days she passed and I was shaken by her death. Her Mother had a memory of that happiness, that smile of her daughter, which brought tears of joy to the family. Making hospital visits in reality is far from the movie version. In some cases you may need Hospice Training and a Background Check. In some situations you will only be allowed to stand at the doorway to avoid bringing in any germs. You may think it a great idea to walk into a children’s hospital and they will welcome Santa with open arms. Most of the metropolitan hospitals will refuse to allow you entrance. Remember, the hospital is charged with the health care of each child and the protection of each individual. Most of the children’s hospitals have used a Santa whom they have “checked out” so don’t be disappointed if hospital security turns you away. It is difficult to advise you at this point about what range of fees you should charge. I can tell you as a new Santa you will have a tendency to under-price your services. Don’t let the idea of “If I price low I’ll get the job. Yes, you may get the job today however; you now have set precedence for the future.  As your Santa career progresses, you will establish a range of fees for your services. Your under-priced services of the past will be a constant reminder that you may be working for much less than you are worth. Yes, I don’t always charge for my services. I don’t charge for a few church groups who hold events for “Inter-city Senior Groups" and parties for mental health groups. I also donate my time to childhood cancer organizations. Making these individuals happy is something money cannot buy. Being Santa is not cheap. A good “off the rack” Santa costume will start on sale at around $250. From there it just goes up. My costumes are had made by a seamstress and a fashion designer. They are very expensive and before you go “custom made” look around and then decide what costume style you like. It’s never too early to search on line for “Santa Costumes”. You should find quite a few pages of websites to keep you busy for the day. Many of the prices from site to site are comparable. Be careful to make sure the pictures and descriptions are the same. If the price looks too good to be true, it’s probably not true. Some Santa suits are relatively cheap because it is a pullover jacket which I’m sure you don’t want to spend hours in! The Santa World is amazing and I know you are going to enjoy every minute in the “Red Suit.” It was not my intention to discourage you however; I wanted you to know a few things as you start your journey to becoming a great Santa Claus! Santa Lou Knezevich is the creator of the Legendary Santas Mentoring Program Contact Santa Lou at: LegendarySantasMentoringProg@gmail.com
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By Michael Rielly

February 2, 2017

By Michael Rielly • February 2, 2017

James D. Rielly

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Born in 1908, James (Jim) D. Rielly was a lifelong resident of Bristol Rhode Island whose love for his country and his community was immediately evident when you met him. In many ways, he was Bristol’s unofficial Ambassador. To paraphrase Yeats: There were no strangers to Jim Rielly; only friends he had not yet met.

Jim Rielly was well known throughout New England for his kindness, generosity, and countless charitable acts. He was featured in the New York Times on multiple occasions and in hundreds of other newspapers throughout the United States. In 1982 he appeared on the television news program, PM Magazine hosted by Sheila Martines and Matt Laurer.

In recognition of his efforts, Jim Rielly was the recipient of numerous awards and commendations. He was a member of the Knights of Columbus and an honorary member of the Bristol Rotary Club, which presented him the Paul Harris Fellowship Award. He was a life member of the Bristol Elk Lodge No 1860 and the Cup Defenders Association. He also received awards from the Bristol Jaycees, the Rhode Island House of Representatives, the Leonardo DaVinci Lodge, Sons of Italy, and the Seabees of Davisville.

The Coast Guard Cutter Spar honored Jim Rielly for the loving and compassionate time he shared with crew members and their families. He also received awards from the Naval Air Station at Quonset Point, the US Naval Construction Battalion Center, the USS Hammerberg and the USS Essex.

In 1989, the Bristol Town Council presented Jim Rielly with the Bristol Citizen of the Year Award.

Over the course of his lifetime, Jim Rielly received numerous letters of recognition from celebrities and dignitaries from all over the world including: Eleanor Roosevelt, Senators Theodore Francis Green, Claiborne Pell, and John Chafee, Presidents Dwight D Eisenhower and Richard M Nixon, and even his Holiness, Pope John Paul II.

For 10 years Jim Rielly portrayed the character Charlie Weaver, appearing in Bristol’s Fourth of July Parades and at various places throughout Rhode Island. He once received a letter from the real Charlie Weaver, Cliff Arquette, who wrote “Keep up the good work but don’t take any checks”.

In 1976, the year of our nation's Bicentennial, the town of Bristol appointed Jim Rielly as official Town Crier. His duties were to call to order the Patriotic Exercises and officially begin the Military and Civic Parade. As Town Crier he participated in all Bristol Fourth of July Parades from 1975 to 1989. He also participated in the official capacity of Town Crier in numerous other community and civic events.

But Jim Rielly’s most notable role was that as Rhode Island's own "Santa Claus." His first appearance as Santa Claus was in the beginning of the Great Depression. In 1928 at the age of 19, Jim Rielly appeared as Santa Claus for a family living in an abandoned chicken coup. For more than 60 years, he would visit various orphanages, hospitals, nursing homes, schools, churches, charitable organizations, military bases and the State House.

As Santa Claus, he traveled by helicopter, plane, Coast Guard vessel and sleigh to bring joy, laughter and cheer to literally hundreds of thousands of people. Accepting no payment for his appearances, his only fee requirement was that we share the true meaning of Christmas by loving one another. Close to his heart were those occasions when he spent time at the homes with mentally and physically handicapped children.

In 1970, the town of Bristol named a street in his honor, Rielly Lane, and in 1975 the town dedicated the James D. Rielly bench at Rockwell Park. In 1979, the United States Senate entered his name into the Congressional Record for his kindness to people as “James D. Rielly, A Truly Remarkable Santa Claus from Rhode Island.” And on December 22, 2010, James D. Rielly was honored posthumously as one of the inaugural inductees into the prestigious International Santa Claus Hall of Fame in Santa Claus, Indiana.

Today, at the entrance of Bristol’s Town Hall, hangs an oil painting of Jim Rielly; welcoming visitors to his beloved town as Bristol’s unofficial Ambassador.

James D. Rielly died on November 26, 1991 at the age of 83.

Edited February 2, 2017 by Michael Rielly

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- The Children’s Friend
  
  Michael Rielly posted an article in Literature, January 18, 2016
  Published by William B. Gilley in 1821, “The Children’s Friend. Number III. A New-Year’s Present to the Little Ones from Five to Twelve”, is believed to be the first book published in America to include lithographic illustrations. This book includes a poem about “Santeclaus” along with eight colored illustrations.
  
  However, what makes this book significant is the poem and illustrations are thought to be the earliest known visual representation of Santa Claus in a sleigh pulled by reindeer. The poem also marks Santa’s first appearance on Christmas Day rather than December 6, the feast day of St. Nicholas.
  
  The Children’s Friend. Number III.
  A New-Year’s Present to the Little Ones from Five to Twelve
  by William B. Gilley, 1821
  
  Old Santeclaus with much delight
  His reindeer drives this frosty night.
  O’er chimney tops, and tracks of snow,
  To bring his yearly gifts to you.
  
  The steady friend of virtuous youth,
  The friend of duty, and of truth,
  Each Christmas eve he joys to come
  Where love and peace have made their home”
  
  Through many houses he has been,
  And various beds and stockings seen,
  Some, white as snow, and neatly mended,
  Others, that seem’d for pigs intended.
  
  Where e’er I found good girls or boys,
  That hated quarrels, strife and noise,
  Left an apple, or a tart,
  Or wooden gun, or painted cart;
  
  To some I gave a pretty doll,
  To some a peg-top, or a ball;
  No crackers, cannons, squibs, or rockets,
  To blow their eyes up, or their pockets.
  
  No drums to stun their Mother’s ear,
  Nor swords to make their sisters fear;
  But pretty books to store their mind
  With knowledge of each various kind.
  
  But where I found the children naughty,
  In manners rude, in temper haughty,
  Thankless to parents, liars, swearers,
  Boxers, or cheats, or base tale-bearers,
  
  I left a long, black, birchen rod,
  Such as the dread command of God
  Directs a Parent’s hand to use
  When virtue’s path his sons refuse
  
  1 reply
  Picked By
  Michael Rielly, 7 hours ago
- 10 Essentials to Being a Better Santa
  
  Santa Lou posted an article in Santa's Wisdom, October 7, 2021
  Here are some DOs and DON'Ts on being Santa
  
  Treat every child with respect.
  
  Never make fun of a child.
  
  Look into the child’s eyes when you speak to them.
  
  Speak softly. Children are sharing confidences with you.
  
  Acknowledge a child’s requests even if you don’t understand them.
  
  Never promise a toy request to avoid a child’s disappointment.
  
  Never promise a pet. Santas a toymaker and only animals produce pets.
  
  If the child can’t remember their wish list, assure them you know what they want.
  
  Never leave a child wondering if Santa heard their Christmas wishes.
  
  Every child worries about being on Santas “Naughty or Nice List”. Tell each child “You’re on the “Nice List.” It will bring happiness to everyone!
  
  Santa Lou Knezevich is the creator of the Legendary Santas Mentoring Program
  Contact Santa Lou at: LegendarySantasMentoringProg@gmail.com
  
  8 replies
  Picked By
  Michael Rielly, March 26
- How Do You Portray Santa Claus?
  
  Santa Lou posted an article in Santa's Wisdom, March 22, 2021
  Portraying Santa is acting; it is a characterization of a mythical character.
  
  Most of us never think of ourselves as actors, but we are. Certain characteristics of Santa Claus have been handed down from one generation to another. The way we dress and conduct ourselves all follow an established pattern.
  
  Santa Claus is one of the most recognizable characters throughout the world. This came about from the advertising campaign of the Coke Cola Company and the creative painting genius, of Haddon Sundblom. Coke Cola was looking to increase winter sales of its soft drink and hired Sundblom to produce illustrations for prominent magazines. These illustrations appeared during the holiday season from the late 1930s into the early 1970s and set the standard for how Santa should look.
  
  This characterization of Santa with rosy cheeks, a white beard, handlebar mustache plus a red costume trimmed in white fur is the image most everyone has in their minds. Unconsciously people are going to judge you against that image. If your beard isn’t white or you have a soiled suit it will register with the onlooker.
  
  By the way, the majority of Sundblom's paintings depict Santa with a Brown Belt and Brown Boots. Not until his later illustrations did he change the color to Black for these items. Within the past few years many costume companies have offered the Coke Cola Suit and it has become very popular. You can tell it by the large buttons and absence of fur down the front of the jacket.
  
  No matter how you portray Santa, be it home visits, schools, churches, parades, corporate events, malls, hospitals we all make an entrance and an impression! The initial impression we make determines if our client will ask us to return.
  
  The 5 Second Rule
  
  I have a theory: When you enter the presence of your audience you have about 5 seconds to make people believe you are the real Santa.
  
  18 replies
  Picked By
  Michael Rielly, April 8, 2021
- Not Everyone Can Be Santa!
  
  Santa Lou posted an article in Santa's Wisdom, July 28, 2017
  Yes, I said it and it is not meant to hurt anyone’s feelings. I do view many Facebook sites along with websites and posted photos. Frankly, many of these postings should have never been put on public display.
  
  10 replies
  Picked By
  Michael Rielly, April 8, 2021
- Auld Lang Syne
  
  Michael Rielly posted an article in Christmas History, April 8, 2016
  Every New Year’s Eve at the stroke of midnight, millions around the world traditionally gather together to sing the same song, “Auld Lang Syne”. As revilers mumble though the song’s versus, it often brings many of them to tears – regardless of the fact that most don’t know or even understand the lyrics. Confusion over the song’s lyrics is almost as much of a tradition as the song itself. Of course that rarely stops anyone from joining in.
  
  4 replies
  Picked By
  Michael Rielly, December 31, 2017
- Is it time to start calling out Bad Santas?
  
  Michael Rielly posted a topic in 2017, September 21, 2017
  Is it time to start calling out Bad Santas?
  
  Do you think we should start calling out those in our community whose actions or behavior is unbecoming of Santa Claus or Mrs. Claus?
  
  94 replies
  Picked By
  Michael Rielly, September 21, 2017
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