International University of Santa

Santa is already preparing for Christmas

DALLAS, June 25 (UPI) -- It was Christmas during the weekend at the Hyatt Regency in Dallas, as mall Santas brushed up on their skills in two days of Santa classes.

Tim Connaghan, or "Santa Tim," leads the seminar, in which future mall Santas learn the dos and don'ts of the modern Santa, The Dallas Morning News reported.

"Behind the Red Suit -- the Business of Santa" offers tips for etiquette, like toning down a booming "ho ho ho" when small children are around. Also, Connaghan advises Santas never to correct, reprimand or deny a child.

The seminar also offers tips on how to get around modern obstacles like the "Merry Christmas" vs. "Seasons Greetings" controversy -- which has become a stickier issue as U.S. culture has become more ethnically diverse.

"Here's my best advice," Connaghan told the newspaper. "If someone says 'Merry Christmas' to you, say it back to them. Otherwise, say 'Season's greetings' or 'Happy holidays.'"

Sixteen Santas -- and even a few Mrs. Clauses -- attended Connaghan's seminar, which he calls the International University of Santa. By Copyright 2007 United Press International, Inc.

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Bernadette Dimitrov www.HoHoHoChristmas.com
wwwTheFamilyYak.com