Associated Press
ST. PAUL, Minn. — The economy has been both naughty and nice and the guys in the local Santa Claus business.
They are merry fellows with the white beards who pose as St. Nick during the holiday season.
Some tell the St. Paul Pioneer Press that gigs at parties, corporate events and retailers are up, while others are happy that they have day jobs because the Santa business is down.
Santa Steve Van Hale, of Stillwater, says so far business is up this year. He’s been a professional Santa for 13 years. He’s also a full-time probation officer.
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On the other hand, Santa Ken Courtier reports that there’s a recession that can make even a resident of the North Pole shiver.
The 71-year-old Santa says he feels lucky he’s got his Social Security and tax preparation business to fall back on.
