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PAGE 12, WIiDNESDAY, DECEMBER 17, 1980, "CHIIRSTMAS SUPPLEMENT". WIIITBY FREE PRESS Santals A Deloved Syunbol of Season The jovial, genial figure of Santa Claus has had many narnes, and mnany origins throughout history. For over 1,700 years a Santa-igure has been said to visit in most regions of the globe and cer- tainly no Christmas would be complete without the tradition of this cheery gift- giver. The American Santa has his origin in the person of Saint Nicholas, Bishop of Myra in Lycia, Asia Minor. Nicholas lived in the early part of the Fourth century and was known for his good deeds and gifts for the needy. After his death, he became the symbol1 of good- ness in Christian history. Numerous trades and pro- fessions took the kindly bishop as their patron and soon his role expaided to that of gift-giver. When Dutch settiers brought the GOOD TIDINGS At Christmas, be merrie and thank fui withal; And feasi with thy rieighbors, the great and the srnall Dundas St. E. Burns St Industrial Dr. CL ConsumnesDr. -ecooper-Smit h C0ooperSmth/ 119 CONSUMERS DR. WFITBY 16 CELINA ST. OSHAWA legend of Saint Nicholas to America, the name "San Nicholaas" then became Santa Claus. Two centuries later, Cie- ment Moore's poem, "A Visit From Saint Nicho- las," made Santa's popu- iarity soar, and changed his appearance. Originaily thought to resembie the gaunt Saint Nicholas, Moore's work describes Santa as the smali and stocky character we know today - a bearded man with sleigh and reindeer, bringing gifts and good cheer to ail. What about the reindeer? 1't is thought that Saint Nicholas traveled through the cold, ncrthern regions on the wings of the rapid North Wind. In these cold- er, sparser areas, reindeer are the sole means of trans- portation. Hence, Santa's association with sleigh and his eight antlered friends. Today, the Iegend of San- ta remains alive as children place treats and stockings out on Christmas Eve with the belief that Santa will re- ward themn if they have been good during the preceding year. 66& 11 57-151 130 INGST.E. 571-3600 OSHAWA Your WooI Store 400 Dundee W. (Kent Building) 666*3242 May the feeling of peace be with you throughout this holiday season and for ail the years to corne. We give you our thanks and the best wishes for a wonderful holiday! From Hfie management & staff of GRANT MENZIES MOTORS Fý 668-1114 571-1541 1430 KI NG ST. E.