Volume 4, Issue 2

Special Christmas Edition 2013

Merry Christmas from us, every day of the year

GODSPEED KRIS KRINGLE Santa Al Horton 1950-2013

Santa Al Horton leaves a legacy of the Spirit of Christmas manifest. Santa Al, always the consumate Santa, exemplified the heart of the Jolly Old Elf, full of wonder, magic and love. Pg. 4

A VISIT I WILL NOT FORGET

Hospice and Hospital Santa Although Santa has a lot of fun at parties and talking with children, there is another side to his visits. Many children need the comfort and compassion that Santa brings throughout the year. By Santa Lou Pg. 9

WORDS OF WISDOM

Being A Human Being, and Santa On page 15 you will find some words of great wisdom that pertain to not only Santa, but all human beings.

‘Remember, it’s not about you, it’s about the children.’

Lou Knezevich

By LOU KNEZEVICH

Christmas Day brings the close of another Santa Season and the knowledge we have brought joy to so many people. There is also the bittersweet taste of waiting another year to put on the “Red Suit.” I’m both happy and sad on this glorious day. My mind wanders and memories of my childhood appear before me. I grew up in Cleveland, Ohio and December started the artic temperatures which would last for the next few months. My mother would knit me mittens and attach them by a string through my sleeves, so I wouldn’t lose them. I looked like Ralphs’s brother in the movie a “Christmas Story.” This movie was filmed in Cleveland and always brings me home to my roots. My parents emigrated from Yugoslavia and I am a first generation American. My Father kept the Serbian Orthodox tradition of “Sretan Bozic” which means Merry Christmas. This date occurs on the Georgian Calendar and usually is observed on January 7th. This was mainly a day of visiting with friends, feasting and hearing stories about their lives See REFLECTION Pg. 2

THE BELL ON CHRISTMAS EVE

A GIFT FOR SANTA

Finding the Heart of Santa Claus

Visit To St. Jude Clinic Powerful

It is such a simple thing, this small acorn brass bell. Yet, its meaning conveys the very essence of Christmas; giving of oneself without thought or need of return. Pg. 13

Hanging over the doorway of our kitchen (under which we pass uncounted times every day) is a tissue paper craft rainbow.  This rainbow, and the powerful magic it weilds was the gift of one very special young boy named Nicholas. Pg. 18

CLASSIC CHRISTMAS IMAGES Throughout this Special Christmas Issue you will find more classic Christmas Images from my collection of images. Many come from Dover Publications. Pg. 3, Pg. 8, Pg. 11, Pg. 17, Pg. 20

Page 2 REFLECTION from Pg. 1 in days gone by. We did, of course, celebrate December 25th, and this was the day I always looked forward to because Santa Claus would make his visit. My mother was an excellent cook and I can picture her now in a festive holiday apron, scurrying about the kitchen making sure everything would be done to perfection... Sometimes, I am reminded of those savoy feasts my mother put on the table and the wonderful smells of our kitchen. Our house was usually the gathering place for Christmas dinner with my sister, her husband, my niece and nephew, my God Parents and friends of my parents. Mom always made a roast beef, plus a turkey and all sorts of vegetables; she and I would usually make the long trip into Cleveland visiting the famous Westside Market for meats, produce and special treats for our table. My Christmas stocking held in it some hard candies, especially peppermints and a berry looking type which had a fruit center. There were some walnuts and other nuts for which you needed the nut cracker to break open those tough shells. My first experience seeing and eating a tangerine was at finding it in my Christmas stocking. The aromas of the tangerine and sweet tasting fruit were something I began to look forward too. To this day, whenever I have a tangerine and uncover that first peel and the fragrance surrounds me, I am taken back to my childhood Christmas. My dad was a proud man and wholly embraced America as his country. He had fled his country as a young man to avoid subscription into the army. He loved his family. He would often remind me we were a small family and here in America there was only my mother, sister and myself. He did live to see five grandchildren which made him very proud. I can see the smile on his face as I’m sure he has seen the family grow to 17 great-grandchildren plus 10 great-great-grandchildren. He probably would have toasted us all with his favorite Christmas drink, Vernor’s Ginger Ale and Southern Comfort. I thought I was a pretty big guy because each Christmas He made one of those drinks for me and wished me “Merry Christmas!” It took years for me to figure out my glass had 99.9% ginger ale and a splash of Southern Comfort. I seldom have alcohol but each Christmas I have

some Southern Comfort and Vernor’s Ginger Ale to toast the greatest father a kid could have. Christmas is a time to reflect, to be thankful for our heritage and the wonderful memories we hold dear. It is a time for many of us to relive a much slower time in which traditions and values were the mainstays of family life. I hope you will take a moment in the hustle and bustle of this season to relive in your mind the memories of your past Christmas’s.

“Merry Christmas and Sretan Bozic” to each of my dear friends wearing the Red suit. May the joy and peace of God’s grace shine upon you and yours. Santa Lou

Santa Lou is the creator of the Legendary Santas Mentoring Program and may be contacted at legendarysantasmentoringprog.com

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Godspeed

Page 4

Santa Al

Santa Al Horton 1950 - 2013

F

rom the very beginning, Santa Al Horton has been ever present. He has always been an integral part of the team, which also included Santa Lou Knezevich, along with numerous other contributors over the years who have come and gone. Without them the North Pole Observer would never have gotten off the ground. Sadly, Lou and I are all that remain. The first time I saw Al was in Atlanta several years ago. Shortly following The

Red Suit Roundup was born. I was editor and Al was my very first contributor. This first publication grew into The Jingle Press,’followed by The Red Suit Gazette. In 2010 I put the final issue on the shelf and began publishing my own publication you have now, The North Pole Observer. Santa Al Horton did not miss sending at least one, and usually more articles for each and every issue of all the publications. I remember the last time I saw Al. I was sitting on a bench outside a Mexican

“There is no death. Only a change of worlds.”

restaurant with Santa Lou, sharing stories and enjoying the evening in Gatlinburg, Tenn. Just returning from one of the evenings events, Santa Al came walking up the street wearing a pair of brightly blinking red glasses he had picked up somewhere that evening. He was savoring every moment of the evening and spreading the joy so prominently glowing from his spirit. Go journey Santa Al Horton. Bill McKee, editor

- Chief Seattle, Suquamish chief

Goodby, My Dear Friend Al By LOU KNEZEVICH

In every life journey, a glowing presence passes overhead etching an indelible mark upon ones’ life and soul. Al Horton left his mark upon my life in way’s that will be a part of me forever. I met Al when we started The Atlanta Santa Academy and became instructors. Al was a historian of everything Santa jolly and nice. We quickly became close friends. He never seemed to be without a huge drink cup from See GOODBY Pg. 5

Is Santa Claus Real? By Al Horton

T

o this question I must give you the answer I gave my daughter. When she was in first grade, I had taken an old Santa outfit I was using and made a little elf outfit for her. It consisted of a vest and skirt. I bought her a white shirt, Santa hat and white stockings to wear. She went with me everywhere that year and helped me pass

out gifts to everyone. The adults thought she was cute and the kids thought she was the luckiest girl on earth even though I tried to convince them she was a 300 year old elf. They could believe in me as Santa Claus but not my daughter as an elf. As we headed to a house where she knew the children, she asked me what to say when they asked her about helping. I simply started to explain that, as she

See REAL Pg. 5

Page 5 REAL from Pg. 4 knows, I help Santa during the Christmas season leaving Santa to do all the work on Christmas Eve. She can tell her friends the same thing. She has been asked to help Santa on occasion and since this was the season of giving, she decided to help out by passing out some presents. But she decided to let them know that she would not be with Santa on Christmas Eve. She also pondered if there really was a Santa. After all, she knows all my secrets and has heard all my talks with the different children. My answer to her was simple,

“This is the season for giving.” She nodded in agreement. I continued, “Santa is the biggest giver of all with all the toys and stuff he hands out each Christmas.” Again she nodded in agreement. “So,” I took a big breath and started, “if we give out gifts, than we must be considered to be like Santa. If we are like Santa, it never hurts to let others think that we are the Jolly Old Elf too! So, that means that Santa is alive and well in all of us.” I could see a light come on in her head. “Does that mean I’m Santa too?” she asked. “Yep,” I explained.

GOODBY from Pg. 4

the local Quick Trip gas station. Any time he walked into the QT the clerks called him “Santa.” He loved walking in their door. He was always recognized wherever he went because of his full beard, the twinkle in his eye and his red attire. Yes, he was Santa Claus and wherever he went he spread the joy of Christmas to all. Al Horton passed from this world a few months ago and I find myself a little misty eyed thinking of him. I have many friends, but Al was very special to me. Some of you might have read a story of mine about the replica of Al I found and hung over our mantel each Christmas. It was a plaster cast which amazingly resembled Al and it always

contributed photo

Santa Al Horton

She continued helping me be Santa for a couple more years and then started spending more time with her friends. I believe she just didn’t think about Santa any more until many years later when she left her friends behind to go to college.

reminded me of his laugh. The lips were parted making it easy to imagine him saying “Ho, Ho, Ho.” The eyes also had that twinkle that was so much a part of Al. After Christmas, Al’s caricature was always returned to a prominent place in my “Santa Cave.” This year we sold our home and moved into a condominium to be nearer our children. Unfortunately, downsizing would not permit taking many of our items to the new home. Al’s caricature was one of those items we couldn’t take. It was very upsetting to me that the replica of Al would have be sold or given to charity. For several weeks we had the typical garage sales and a moving sale of household items but no one purchased Al. On the very last day of our

My daughter is now married and has three children of her own. She enjoys my visit with them after Christmas each year and have them looking forward to seeing Santa after he is through delivering all the toys to the children of the world. She took me aside one year after her twins were born and told me she still believes in Santa. I smiled and told her to remember to pass that on to her children when they are ready to know. She knew exactly what I meant as she nodded in agreement. So is there really a Santa. I will most definitely

See REAL Pg. 6

moving sale, and just before we were closing up, a woman spotted Al’s caricature. She was drawn to it and immediately wanted to buy it. As we talked I related the story of how I bought it and the meaning of the caricature to me. I told her about Al’s heart attack and that his Santa days were in the past. She told me she would take pride in owning Al’s caricature and it would have a special place in her home. I didn’t realize it at the time, but, the day she purchased the caricature was the day Al had died. I know the spirit of Al Horton lives on in that caricature and there will be a twinkling in his eye when someone sees Santa Claus. Merry Christmas … Santa Claus!

Page 6 REAL from Pg. 5

say yes to that question. Anyone who gives a gift with love and kindness during the Christmas season is most definitely a Santa Claus. They perpetuate the positive image of good and kindness in the world. Those that say there is no Santa Claus are the image of what I see as wrong in this world today. There is not enough kindness and unconditional giving. If everything has to be in black and white, then explain to me God, Mohammad, Buddha and all the other deities of this world. Can you see them? How do you know they exist? If you believe . . . they exist!

Editors note

One person wrote an article about some distinguished scientist who discussed matter and what gives matter its mass. His contention is that matter has no mass until the God element is initiated. He likened it to an invisible soccer ball. You don’t see it, but if kicked into the net, you know it is there by the bulge it makes in the net when it hits the back. I just prefer to think of Santa as the Jolly Old Elf who enjoys giving gifts to children of all ages. Just look at me, I give out gifts year round to all the good boys and girls. Just last week a mom brought her teenage daughter to work. When they saw me, the mom

The two articles by Santa Al Horton I are two of my favorites. The story about having breakfast with his sister has stayed with me all the years since I first read it. Santa Al’s knowledge is very valuable to all who portray Santa’s helpers. For those who have not read, or are not familiar with Al’s book, ‘Santa’s Book of Knowledge,’ it is a valuable resource. It is still available online through most of the book sellers. See the promotional page I ran for Al when the book was published on Page 14. As far as I know, all procedes from purchase of Al’s book go to his family.

stated, “See, there is a Santa Claus.” The daughter stated, “But you told me there was no Santa Claus.” After a few minutes, I went to my sleigh (my truck throughout the year) and pulled a stuffed Teddy Bear out. When I saw them again, I told them that being nice throughout the year always produces a gift from Santa. With that I handed them a Teddy Bear and then disappeared. A few days later the mom found me and told me that her daughter is still talking about Santa and showed the Teddy Bear to all her friends. That one act of kindness, once initiated, took on a life of its own. Both mom

and daughter are affected and now so are her friends. I’ll bet mom has told this story to her friends too. There is another story in my book about a boy learning there was no Santa from his sister and then asking his grandmother about it. Grandma didn’t explain about Santa but showed the young boy how Santa is alive and well no matter what anyone says. Yes, I too believe there is a Santa Claus and Bah Humbug on all who think otherwise. Santa Al Horton 1950-2013

Breakfast With Santa Kris Kringle’s Wisdom By Al Horton It’s another Saturday morning when I awaken to my sister pounding on my door. “Wake up Santa, I’m taking you to breakfast.” I shower, primp the old whiskers, and dress in my usual red plaid shirt, red hat and large black belt. At breakfast, several children are tugging at their mother’s sleeve and pointing at me. They are trying to whisper, but the entire restaurant/diner can hear them; “Look mommy, it’s Santa!” I smile and wave. Then jaunting When they gleefully smile and announce that they have, I laugh over to the table, I produce one of with a ‘Ho, Ho, Ho’ and hand my fleece bears from my pocket, asking if they have been good. See BREAKFAST Pg. 7

Page 7 BREAKFAST from Pg. 6 them a bear. I ask them to keep it a secret, but I am out looking for who is naughty and nice. This event happens daily. I enjoy the children’s smiles and the sparkles in their eyes as they assure their parents that they will be nice. Some may wonder why I dress this way and why I bother with the bears and comments. I could just as easily hide like most celebrities and down play or even ignore the fans, but to hurt a child like that would only confirm to the adults they need to tell them that there is no such thing as Santa. WHAT!!!! No such thing as Santa!!! Who would bring the gifts, who would the children tell their secrets to, what would happen to the trust in this world? I want everyone to experience the thrill of a child when they are excited being around Santa. I have had parents come up to me after a chance visit, and gift of the fleece bear, telling me that just a few months earlier their child wouldn’t go near Santa, and now look at them. I enjoy being in the nonthreatening position of bringing happiness to others. If you need one bit of advice, I recommend you be yourself and the children will let you know if you are non-threatening, and what you can and cannot do. Don’t force anything, not even your laugh. Let it bellow out naturally. Be jolly all the time and don’t worry about the ridicule. When I am around adults, they usually ask the most questions and don’t hold back any punches. They don’t see how I can enjoy life so much when there are such troubles all around us. The stress of just making a living is tough. To that

I just say; “Life is only as tough as you let it be. If you don’t let it get you down and learn to enjoy the little things around you, life will be simpler and happier.” There is usually no response to that. This past year, I visited a Jewish family who had a Christmas party for their Christian friends. Both Jews and Gentiles received gifts from Santa. Now remembering when to say Happy Hanukah and when to say Merry Christmas worried me until I saw the children. They were so content that Santa was handing out gifts, I made a game of it. The children were happy, and I never though twice about saying or doing the wrong thing again. July is rapidly approaching. This is the time of year Santa could be out volunteering with activities. Look for some organization that assist with hospital care of children, or special camps for special needs children, or the local businesses who might want to do some community work and don’t know how. Have them donate some simple toys (e.g. stuffed animals, games, etc) and then take them to the local homeless shelter, orphanage, or just to a hospital where there are a lot of children, and hand them out. Now some of you have figured out there is another reason I dress the way I do, talk with the children and hand out the bears, and volunteer for any Christmas in July activity. That is the way to get yourself noticed and start booking for the next season. I highly recommend you get an agent if you want steady work or get out there and hustle yourself. Or, you can do want I do. Not everyone can do it, but it is rewarding.

TIP OF THE MONTH Don’t wear jewelry, carry a cell phone, or anything else not magical, but if you do and are caught, be very witty and up front. I had one such occurrence during a private party. I had mistakenly left my watch on. Though it was well hidden, it did slip out once and a child questioned me about it. Instead of hiding it, I told them that it was a special communicator with my elves watching the sleigh. From then on I remembered to take it off. THOUGHT FOR THE MONTH If you really want to be on top of the Santa ladder, learn other languages. The more you can speak with a child the better you are. I once visited a party for an orphanage in London. One child questioned why I was a yank. Thank goodness, a few of my British friends had taught me some Welsh, Gaelic and worked on my different United Kingdom accents. Not only did I surprise that young lad, but he brought a new child who was French over to me. I quickly depleted my French phrases and turned the child over to a helper who was actually French. That worked out well. For the rest of the two hours, I could do no wrong. That’s all for now. Don’t forget to send me your experiences, tips and questions. I will be more than happy to answer them or publish them here for others to assist with their answers. We don’t have to agree but we all have some great ideas that we could share. Kris Kringle aka Al Horton 1950-2013

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THOMAS NAST

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A Hospital Visit I Will Not Forget! By LOU KNEZEVICH

T

he Santa costume has been cleaned and put away while the memories of this past season bring a smile to my face. How wonderful it is to be a Santa and bring joy to the eyes of young and old. I’m always a little “moody” when the season ends and I find Santa Lou Knezevich myself wanting to put on the “Red Suit” one more time. Maybe you feel the same way and you wish there was something “Santa” could do. I love being “Santa” and I often wish I could portray the jolly character every day of year. Don’t get me wrong. I am Santa 24/7/365 by wearing red, keeping a snow white beard and acting the part. Of course the fun I long for is the parties and visits of November and December. Although Santa has a lot of fun at parties and talking with children there is another side to his visits. There are many children who need the comfort and compassion that Santa brings. These are children who are hospitalized some with serious illnesses. I can’t think of a more rewarding experience than to be a Santa to a child in hospice or one who is hospitalized. My first experience of this nature was a request by a coworker to visit a nephew in the local children’s hospital.

I was very much unprepared for the series of events I would become a part of. Carol came to me late in the morning and told me her nephew was having a rough time after intestinal surgery. He was in fact, in the nearby children’s hospital. She related how the parents and staff were very concerned because the young lad would not take his medicine, plus, he refused to eat. He needed to begin eating solid foods as part of being released from the hospital. Carol thought if Santa made an appearance and talked to the boy he just might cooperate. I wasn’t enthusiastic over the idea and felt it would not work. Besides, I was dressed in slacks with a red shirt and I didn’t feel I looked the part of Santa in any way. My excuses didn’t hold water with Carol and when lunch

time came we headed for the hospital. At the hospital Carol went into the child’s room while I waited in the hallway. I remember my apprehension over being there and feeling so inadequate. I had never done anything like this; in fact, I was a brand new Santa who was just finding my way. Suddenly the door opened and I was motioned into the room. There on the hospital bed was the cutest little boy who looked so lost among the hospital equipment. IV’s were in his arms while monitors steadily beeped as colored lights bounced along the display screens. The room was dark except for the light over the bed which cast shadows over the concerned faces of the parents and grandparents. Seeing See VISIT Pg. 10

Page 10 VISIT from Pg. 9 me the visitors parted and ushered me to the boy’s bedside. He recognized me as Santa and when I spoke to him I could see his unhappiness at being in the hospital. I can’t remember all my words but I somehow found the right things to say and a smile came upon the child. I was sympathetic to his wanting a 4-wheeler and told him a few things he needed to do so he could leave the hospital. I do remember I made a Santa request he take his medicine and really try to eat something. All the while we talked I held his little

hand and he seemed to be comforted by Santa. I was not there very long and soon it was time to say our goodbyes. That afternoon Carol came to me in tears. I was alarmed and felt something had happened to her nephew. She had just received a phone call. He had eaten a bowl of soup, a cup of Jell-O and he was happy and cooperative with all. Everyone was elated over the positive turn of events and how Santa had turned things around. I didn’t feel like a hero but I learned that day the magical power which Santa does possess As I reflected upon these events,

I was also struck with how important portraying Santa is. It is an awesome responsibility not to be taken lightly. We Santas have at times the power to influence young lives and we must exercise our pervasiveness in an honorable way. Children and adults will not soon forget Santa and carry our memory for years to come. Merry Christmas my friends, may the love and joy of the season, warm your hearts throughout the coming year.

BY SANTA LOU KNEZEVICH [email protected] http://www.Santa-Lou.com

YOU SHOULD KNOW

Legendary Santas Mentoring Program Created by Santa Lou Knezevich

Santa Lou is a long time, very professional, knowledable Santa and Santa educator, upholding the highest standards, know as ‘Georgia’s Premier Santa.’ Santa Lou conceived, imagined and designed the program to benefit veteran as well as new Santas, and anyone who aspires to wear the red suit. The mentoring program is designed to be carried forward into the future, helping train, guide and promote the true heart of Santa, the Spirit of Christmas, with knowledge and life-long mentoring. The Legendary Santas Mentoring Program is a tremendously valuable resource and a true guide for anyone who already portrays Santa and everyone who aspires to.

Legendary Santas

For more information contact Santa Lou at;

LegendarySantasMentoringProg@ gmail.com Sleigh Phone 404.918.4756

Mentoring Program Guidelines

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Page 12

It would be a Christmas to Remember

The Bell on C hristmas Eve A

few days before Christmas 2006, I found myself – as a newspaper employee and as Santa – smack in the middle of a news story and full of conflicting duties. It was six days before Christmas Eve, and I awoke early. With 20 stops on the agenda, it would be my busiest day leading into Christmas Eve. The trek had become an annual ritual. Santa looked forward to sharing Christmas goodies, stories, laughs and smiles with folks I get to see only once a year. My first stop was in the foothills of Whitetop Mountain where I visited the office of my dentist and his staff. I greeted everyone inside, saying Merry Christmas and offering candy and treats, a kind word or two, and a photo. I stopped to speak with Dr. David R. Tebbenkamp, busy at work, and found myself drawn toward the tightly squeezed, clamped-closed eyes of his patient. After a few more greetings, I headed for the next stop. Strapping myself in the sleigh, I saw a slender young man come down the steps from the office. He gave a nod and a wave as he entered his white pickup.  I waved and nodded in return. He departed first, turning back towards the mountain. I turned the other way, toward Damascus. Soon after departing, I entered the switch-back curves along the route, and appearing behind me was a white pickup truck. The

A Tr u e S t o r y

PHOTO BY BILL MCKEE

It is such a mundane appearing object, a simple acorn brass bell. But what a profound message it sent on Christmas Eve 2006.

driver, the sole occupant, was digging around his cab. And suddenly, a bag of trash came flying out of his window, glass and paper and all manner of debris scattering across the road. Throwing out trash in this area is not unusual. But this driver continued, throwing out everything he found and swerving his vehicle with each toss. As we topped the ridge and I thought he could find nothing more to throw, the road straightened out and I saw him remove his shirt. Out the window it went. Down this entire straight stretch of mountain road, he continued to weave and remove clothing, tossing each item out the window in turn. Whatever he was up to, one thing seemed perfectly clear. He was not

safe on the road. Considering I had no chance of reaching authorities by cell phone, my only option was to continue to Damascus. Down the mountain we continued, occasionally passing a oncoming car or truck. As he kept weaving, I feared he might strike another vehicle, perhaps one filled with children. As I entered town, the white pickup behind me, traffic was moderate and the sidewalks busy with Christmas shoppers. I found a parking space across from the police station, but the pickup continued past, for about 50 feet, before coming to a screeching halt. Jumping out, the driver ran into a nearby used car lot – stark naked. Two of the town policemen had heard the commotion, and came rushing out to see what was the matter. “Stephen, across the street,” I hollered to one I knew. I pointed to where the streaker was standing. Soon after, he was handcuffed, covered and secured into the back seat of a police car. Being witness to the entire affair, I waited in the sleigh until one of the officers asked for a statement. I got out and stood on the sidewalk as I told the story. A school bus filled with children passed by, and I waived and smiled to the faces plastered to the windows. I heard someone tell them that Santa had helped the cops capture a bad guy. The difficult call came the next day, from a newspaper reporter who also See BELL Pg 13

Page 13 BELL from Pg. 12 is a fellow employee. Throughout the afternoon there were conversations with the reporter and long discussions with my boss. I had one powerful and primary concern with the story: trying to somehow protect the man’s children, perhaps by keeping his name out of the paper. The story ran the following morning, front page, above the fold, with a mug shot and, of course, his name. I had learned the day before that he had overmedicated himself before his visit to the dentist. Yet he had three young children at home, and it was Santa who witnessed their father’s very public mistake. A couple days later, I would have to do one of the most difficult things I have ever done: Get up, put on the red suit and walk back into Damascus. I had no idea what the residents might think. I had been their Santa for eight years, but also a source for a very embarrassing story. Perhaps they would prefer Santa not return. My first stop was the building

housing the police and fire departments, where I traditionally stocked up on candy. Going in, I found one of the officers and told him my concerns. He looked me straight in the eye and said, as far as he knew, “everyone” wanted me there. So I loaded up the goodies and made my way up the street. Damascus seemed deserted. In the first shop (open for just more than a year) I was admonished by the owner – for missing her on my previous year’s visit. I humbly apologized. Then a customer told me about grandparents who had so greatly influenced their lives. By this time, more customers had entered, beaming and happy to encounter Santa. Talking, listening and passing out candy canes, I was enveloped in the Spirit of Christmas. Leaving for my next stop, my eyes almost betrayed my senses. There were cars and people everywhere, as if they had magically appeared. I continued the wondrous sleigh ride through town, visiting shops, homes and children. Everywhere

I stopped, everything I saw, was almost miraculous. It was Dec. 23, and the Spirit of Christmas permeated everything. A few weeks earlier I had found this wonderful brass, acorn bell. I ordered a few and ended up wearing nine on my suit: three bells on each boot, embedded in the white fur, and three attached to the snowball on the hood of my jacket. I wear one for each reindeer. When I walk they sound like sleigh bells on reindeer high above the rooftops. On Christmas Eve, I awoke early. It had been a bad news week in Damascus. First the streaker, witnessed by none other than Santa, which made the front page of the newspaper. And on the same day, a methamphetamine lab, spewing foul and toxic fume, forced the evacuation of a three-story apartment complex at Woods Landing. The resulting damage meant the residents would be out of their homes for several days, maybe weeks. Maybe even for Christmas. But I had learned the night before

See BELL pg 16

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Santa’s Book of Knowledge by Santa

Al Horton

To order online, visit www.authorhouse.com This title is also available through your local book seller or preferred online retailer. Paperback book is $19.99. To Order a Signed Copy, Contact [email protected] Included with book from Santa Al is a CD with 100 extra pages and pictures not published in the book. This offers you even more information easily accessible on your computer. The cost of $25.00 includes shipping and handling. Three sections include: Section I History of Santa and how to be a credible Santa. Section II The Business of Santa Section III Stories, parodies, and other good stuff. This resource contains more information than any one school provides. Knowledge, insight and some terrific stories are all here.

From the editor of the North Pole Observer

Beginning in early 2007, I have had the privledge and honor of reading and editing stories by Al Horton which have appeared in the Red Suit Roundup, Jingle Press, Red Suit Gazette and now, my own publication, the North Pole Observer. I received my copy of Santa Al Horton’s book and CD a few short weeks ago and just finished it. If you are seeking knowledge built on education and experience, blended with good story telling, this book is for you. Al is not only a Santa instructor, but has international experience with many years under his belt. I have read a few posts saying that this book has a few gramatical errors. Yes, that is true, but they are very minor and don’t affect its value at all. The knowledge and story-telling is there and laid out in a well-organized, concise manner. This is a reference book for novice and seasoned pro alike. I highly recommend this book.

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Words Of Great Wisdom

1. Rise with the sun to pray. Pray alone. Pray often. 12. Children are the seeds of our future. Plant love The Great Spirit will listen, if you only speak. in their hearts and water them with wisdom and life’s lessons. When they are grown, give them 2. Be tolerant of those who are lost on their path. space to grow. Ignorance, conceit, anger, jealousy and greed stem from a lost soul. Pray that they will find guidance. 13. Avoid hurting the hearts of others. The poison of your pain will return to you. 3. Search for yourself, by yourself. Do not allow others to make your path for you. It is your road, 14. Be truthful at all times. Honesty is the test of and yours alone. Others may walk it with you, but ones will within this universe. no one can walk it for you. 15. Keep yourself balanced. Your Mental self, 4. Treat the guests in your home with much conSpiritual self, Emotional self, and Physical self - all sideration. Serve them the best food, give them need to be strong, pure and healthy. Work out the the best bed and treat them with respect and body to strengthen the mind. Grow rich in spirit honor. to cure emotional ails. 5. Do not take what is not yours whether from a person, a community, the wilderness or from a culture. It was not earned nor given. It is not yours.

16. Make conscious decisions as to who you will be and how you will react. Be responsible for your own actions.

6. Respect all things that are placed upon this earth - whether it be people or plant.

17. Respect the privacy and personal space of others. Do not touch the personal property of others - especially sacred and religious objects. This is forbidden.

7. Honor other people’s thoughts, wishes and words. Never interrupt another or mock or rudely mimic them. Allow each person the right to personal expression. 8. Never speak of others in a bad way. The negative energy that you put out into the universe will multiply when it returns to you.

18. Be true to yourself first. You cannot nurture and help others if you cannot nurture and help yourself first. 19. Respect others religious beliefs. Do not force your belief on others.

9. All persons make mistakes. And all mistakes can be forgiven.

20. Share your good fortune with others. Participate in charity.

10. Bad thoughts cause illness of the mind, body and spirit. Practice optimism.

This originally appeared in the “Inter-Tribal Times,” October, 1994. Taken from: Native Village, www. nativevillage.org/Inspiration-/native_american_ code_of_ethics__.htm

11. Nature is not FOR us, it is a PART of us. They are part of your worldly family.

PHOTO BY BILL MCKEE

Page 16 BELL from Pg. 13 that the residents would be returning to their apartments on Christmas Eve! So after my stops downtown, I made my way to Woods Landing. As I arrived, several people in the parking lot were unloading and carrying belongings back into their homes. They were talking, laughing and hugging each other, glad to be home. I talked, I laughed, and almost cried as I made my way through the complex, apartment by apartment, handing out candy canes and hugs. The air crackled with excitement. Stepping off the elevator on the third floor, the hallway was empty except for one frail, small lady to my left, just entering her apartment. A smile beamed across her face when she saw me and exclaimed, “Santa!” I wished her a very hearty Merry Christmas and welcome home. I could feel her emotions as we talked about the week and returning home in time for Christmas. She was joyous and depressed, and happy and sad. At one point, I thought she was going to break into tears. That’s when I heard the bell. It hit the floor beside my left boot. Glancing down, I recognized it as one of the brass acorn bells on my suit.

Reaching down to retrieve it, simultaneous thoughts flashed through my mind: I would need to replace the bell when I returned home that evening, yet instinctively I also knew what I must do. “This must be for you,” I told the woman, reaching out my palm, bell in hand. The moment was Christmas magic for her and for me. You would have thought I had given her a bar of gold. We talked a short while longer, then I said goodbye and headed to the sleigh. There were a few stops left, but it was late afternoon. Soon, it would be time to climb behind the reindeer for my annual journey. As dusk arrived, I made a last stop at the Family Dollar store. Opening the door, I saw before me a row of cashiers at their registers, staring straight at me – and all were wearing antlers! Laughing and enjoying the moment, I heartily bellowed out, “There you are, I have been tracking you all afternoon. We have to go. It is almost dark and we

have lots and lots to do.” Everybody in the store was laughing. It was a very magic moment. As I traveled homeward that Christmas Eve I reflected on a very powerful and magical holiday. I had been honored and blessed to be witness to people coming together in the true Spirit of Christmas. At home, as I began to remove the suit, I found myself staring at three bells firmly attached to my left boot. A check of my right revealed the same: three bells. Removing my belt and jacket, I again discovered three bells, all firmly attached. I was truly humbled, and grateful for my opportunity to wear the red suit. I also now understood one thing very clearly: The bell that dropped by my left boot was a gift for her. But the other gift that day, that one was for me. That gift was knowing that when I put the red suit on, I belong. I had watched the Spirit of Christmas grow into real magic and wonder, both around me and within. I had found the Heart of Santa Claus. Bill McKee A true story from Christmas 2006

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A Gift for Santa

By Bill McKee

   Hanging over the doorway of our kitchen (under which we pass uncounted times every day) is a tissue paper craft rainbow.  When walking under this rainbow and acknowledging its presence, any troubles I think I have fade into near-nothingness.    This gift of a rainbow given to Santa came from a very special young child.    I received it during my first fullscale visit to St. Jude Tri-Cities Affiliate Clinic.  Even with my education, background, training and experience; I was nervous as I arrived.  There were a number of children there that beautiful Spring day.  Each and every child, from the youngest to the oldest, was an inspiration to me, and I soon felt right at home.    I moved from room to room, taking whatever time required, or seemed appropriate with each child and family.  I read or told stories, answered questions, and we played games.  I listened closely as some of them told me stories.    I had been informed there was one little boy who was ‘very engaging.’    Marinda McConnell, Child Life Program Manager at The Children’s Hospital at Johnson City Medical Center and St. Jude Tri-Cities Affiliate Clinic in Johnson City, Tn., announced through his nearlyclosed door that he had a visitor on the way to his room.   ‘Santa!’ he exclaimed, hearing the sleigh bells on my boots as I walked up the hall.

   Entering his room, I saw his eyes were dancing as his smile and excitement filled the room.  It may have seemed like Christmas morning all over again for him.    He had been working on a paper mache rainbow and was awaiting lunch with his mother at his side.  His laughter was like the sounds of happiness and joys from a Christmas morning, all wrapped into one special little boy.    Lunch, for him, came though a plastic tube which fed directly into his stomach.  It has been this way almost his entire life.    Lunch was also some small bites of his favorites, salted fries and a grilled burger.  Not being able to swallow the tidbits, he took them in his mouth, wrestled them around his tongue, savoring every nuance and distinction of flavor, fair and foul.  From each and every bite he extracted the essence of the flavors and juices and aromas, discarding the remnants, ready for another flavor filled treasure.    Each bite he took in, savored and discarded once again.  All the while we talked, laughed, played and he continued working on the paper mache rainbow.  His hands twisted, he labored to finish as he labored also to guide food to his mouth.  And he laughed at the simple joys of living and the excitement of the day.    Before me was this child who savored life as he savored his lunch, tasting every moment, every flavor and even the sour notes.    Witnessing this young man, full of energy and life, overcoming many physical challenges (most

adults could not deal with) reinforced my understanding of the Sacredness of each and every child and of life itself.    His spirit shined through so brightly as to make his physical impairments nearly vanish into nothingness.  His boundless energy flowed through and beyond the walls of his room, spilling over and being felt through the entire clinic I have no doubt.    The simple joy of living life seemed to come so naturally to him.  I barely saw his physical impairments at all.  I just saw this bright, shining, little boy whose spirit could not be confined within his imperfect body.  His joy of life filled the room and all who came near him.    I had gone to the clinic to try and spread a little Christmas Joy, perhaps brighten some child’s day.  As I left that day, it was with renewed vigor and a brightened Spirit, lifted up by this glowing little boy so full of energy and life, housed in that small fragile body.    So that’s why above our doorway is a rainbow.  And this little paper rainbow sheds a most incredible light that helps guide me on my path and my reindeer steer their sleigh. Bill McKee www.theSantaClaus.com [email protected]

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Yes, Virginia, There is a Santa Claus Eight-year-old Virginia O’Hanlon wrote a letter to the editor of New York’s Sun, and the quick response was printed as an unsigned editorial Sept. 21, 1897. The work of veteran newsman Francis Pharcellus Church has since become history’s most reprinted newspaper editorial, appearing in part or whole in dozens of languages in books, movies, and other editorials, and on posters and stamps. “DEAR EDITOR: I am 8 years old. Some of my little friends say there is no Santa Claus. Papa says, ‘If you see it in THE SUN it’s so.’ Please tell me the truth; is there a Santa Claus?” Signed, VIRGINIA O’HANLON 115 WEST NINETY-FIFTH STREET

VIRGINIA, your little friends are wrong. They have been affected by the skepticism of a skeptical age. They do not believe except [what] they see. They think that nothing can be which is not comprehensible by their little minds. All minds, Virginia, whether they be men’s or children’s, are little. In this great universe of ours man is a mere insect, an ant, in his intellect, as compared with the boundless world about him, as measured by the intelligence capable of grasping the whole of truth and knowledge. Yes, VIRGINIA, there is a Santa Claus. He exists as certainly as love and generosity and devotion exist, and you know that they abound and give to your life its highest beauty and joy. Alas! how dreary would be the world if there were no Santa Claus. It would be as dreary as if there were no VIRGINIAS. There would be no childlike faith then, no poetry, no romance to make tolerable this existence. We should have no enjoyment, except in sense and sight. The eternal light with which childhood fills the world would be extinguished. Not believe in Santa Claus! You might as well not believe in fairies! You might get your papa to hire men to watch in all the chimneys on Christmas Eve to catch Santa Claus, but even if they did not see Santa Claus coming down, what would that prove? Nobody sees Santa Claus, but that is no sign that there is no Santa Claus. The most real things in the world are those that neither children nor men can see. Did you ever see fairies dancing on the lawn? Of course not, but that’s no proof that they are not there. Nobody can conceive or imagine all the wonders there are unseen and unseeable in the world. You may tear apart the baby’s rattle and see what makes the noise inside, but there is a veil covering the unseen world which not the strongest man, nor even the united strength of all the strongest men that ever lived, could tear apart. Only faith, fancy, poetry, love, romance, can push aside that curtain and view and picture the supernal beauty and glory beyond. Is it all real? Ah, VIRGINIA, in all this world there is nothing else real and abiding. No Santa Claus! Thank God! he lives, and he lives forever. A thousand years from now, Virginia, nay, ten times ten thousand years from now, he will continue to make glad the heart of childhood.

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Love, Hope & Joy

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Wrapped in a Warm Santa Hug

for Special Children & Their Families For nine months, the nine-year-old Hurricane Katrina survivor did not speak. He and his mother rode out the killer storm in the attic of their home. His next-door neighbors were not so lucky and the young boy heard their screams as Katrina took the lives of his best friend and his friend’s mother. When the mother and son moved to Mobile, they sought help for the boy’s post traumatic stress. Week after week, month after month, the boy was silent during therapy sessions. A professional in the medical community called Santa-America for help. When Daphne, Alabama resident Santa Ernest Berger walked into the counselor’s office, the young boy jumped up, flew across the room and hurled himself into Santa Ernest’s embrace shouting, “Santa, I thought you were dead.” The boy’s mother and counselor wept as the boy told Santa Ernest about his nightmare experiences.

Santa-America Changes Families’ Lives! Founded in 2003 by Daphne, Alabama resident Santa Ernest Berger, Santa-America is a national non-profit volunteer service organization that offers Santa visits to children and families in crisis…365 days a year! Santa nurtures children and their families by giving compassion during an emotionally stressful time of their life.  Following the initial visit, the same Santa will continue to visit the family year after year, helping in their grief and bereavement.  Santa’s visits with children come from the medical community, hospice, and special needs educators. We build relationships with medical societies and alliances. As one of our initiatives, Santa America is conducting a clinical pilot study to reveal the value of Santa’s love on chronically ill children.

Caring For Our Children Santa-America is the leader in advancing the highest standards for its volunteers. We conduct rigorous national background checks and intensive training … the same background check as a doctor or nurse.

365 Days A Year!

How We Build Community SantaAmerica volunteers unite generations and work together to build community through service to our children. The gifts of Love, Hope & Joy transcend politics, culture, race and religion.  These gifts are treasured universal values.

Gifts for Our Children

Photos courtesy of Elizabeth McGonagle Graham, Lasting Memories Photography

When we visit our special children, Santa-America gives gifts that symbolize Love, Hope and Joy. Our signature Santa Hugs™, sleigh bells, and our special book, An Angel in the Sky, continue to remind children and their families of their special visit with Santa. For more information about Santa-America, visit Santa-America online at www.Santa-America.org or contact our President, Santa Ernest Berger, at [email protected]. Don’t miss the Santa America Blog on the Web site at http://www.santa-america.org/ santa-blog. Any Santa interested in becoming a SantaAmerica Santa please contact Bob Elkin at [email protected]

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Classified North Pole Observer © Copyright 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013 ©®™ Masthead Artwork by Earthdancer Imaging © The North Pole Observer© is published by Brothers Claus Press. Issues are published in PDF format and available for viewing or download at http://www.NorthPoleObserver.com. An archive of the issues is readily available online at http:// www.NorthPoleObserver.com. The publication is edited and produced independently by Bill McKee, a long-time Santa. All contents © are the sole property of the authors, protected under U.S. and International copyright laws and trademarks. Written permission must be obtained from the author of any article before reproducing any of the written content, or images in any form.All rights reserved. http://www.theSantaClaus.com CONTACT: Bill McKee [email protected] Workshop & Sleigh 276-429-2181

Brass Bells, Polar Express Style Bells & more

These sand cast, solid Brass bells can be found online at Cat’s Paw Web site. The bells pictured above are recent additions to Perry’s inventory. For our readers who are familiar with my story ‘The Bell on Christmas Eve,’ this is my source of the small acorn bells which are very special to me. I have purchased numerous bells from Perry and I can recommend his service, honesty and products very highly, without hesitation. Contact Perry at: Cat’s Paw http://www.catspawdb.com/accessories.html [email protected]

The Santa Clause

“In putting on this suit and entering the sleigh, the wearer waives any and all rights to previous identity, real or implied, and fully accepts the duties and responsibilities of Santa Claus until such time that wearer becomes unable to do so either by accident or design.” The “Santa Clause” from the movie The Santa Clause