Winter 2017
Issue 020117
IBRBS Winter Newsletter
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2016/17 Board Fred Selinsky
Chairman (AZ) FSelinsky@IBRBSantas.org
Robert "Bob" Elkin President/CEO (FL) belkin@ibrbsantas.org
Tom Carmody
Thank you to the Newsletter Committee
VP External (CO) tcarmody@ibrbsantas.org
Steve Eastis Editor, Deanna Golden, Robert Callett, Patrick DeHann, John Stephens
Don White
VP Internal (CA) dwhite@ibrbsantas.org
Steve Eastis
CFO/ Newsletter (CA) seastis@ibrbsantas.org
Stephen Arnold
National Secretary (TN) SArnold@ibrbsantas.org
Gordon Bailey
Director (CA) gbailey@ibrbsantas.org
Table of Contents
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President’s Message
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Mrs. Claus on the move
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Santas Heart
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IBRBS Healthy Children / The Miracle on Juniper Street
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Vets Corner
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Tax tips for Santa
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Howard Graham
Ex-Officio Director (MA) HGraham@ibrbsantas.org
David Shuman
Ex-Officio Director (GA) dshuman@ibrbsantas.org
Andy Stratton
Ex-Officio Director (KY) astratton@ibrbsantas.org
Jim Youker
Ex-Officio Director (NC) jyouker@ibrbsantas.org
Fred Lueck
CIO / Webmaster (WA) flueck@ibrbsantas.org
Deanna Golden
Operational Asst. (AZ) dgolden@ibrbsantas.org
Regional Rep’s North Central Owen Davenport
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IBRBS 2017 BOARD OF DIRECTORS ELECTION
10/11
IBRBS 2017 BOARD OF DIRECTORS ELECTION
12/ 13/14
Santas Groups
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Outdoor Christmas Set’s
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Inside Mall Christmas Set’s
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Santa’s in the news
18/ 19
Coloring / Word Search
20/ 21
North East Mike Spiegel
Member Numbers
22 / 23
Pac West Jonathan Rich
Ads
24/ 25
ODavenport@IBRBSantas.org
South East Joe Pridgen JPridgen@IBRBSantas.org
South Central Bo Turner bturner@ibrbsantas.org
mspiegel@ibrbsantas.org JRich@IBRBSantas.org
Rocky Mountain Dave Christopherson DChristopherson@IBRBSantas.org
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ISC Denver 2018
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On behalf of your Board of Directors we would like to extend our best wishes to each one of our valued members for a prosperous, happy, healthy and exciting New Year.
IBRBS has most definitely earned distinction as the preeminent Santa organization in the world. We have now surpassed the milestones of 1,600 individual members and 29 IBRBS Chapters. But folks, it isn’t just about the numbers, let’s take a brief look at all the milestones and the significant number of valuable benefits IBRBS provides to each of our members. IBRBS is the only organization that provides each NEW member a Membership Package to include their personal IBRBS Membership Certificate, a laminated IBRBS Membership ID card, several logo gifts along with other informational material, the combined value exceeding the cost of the application fee. IBRBS is the only organization to offer deeply discounted and subsidized Background checks so our members can be assured of the highest quality in Background checks for only $5.00. Please understand all Background checks are not of the same quality. IBRBS is the only organization to annually award Higher Education Scholarships and Santa School Scholarships totaling $2,000 each year to our members. In 2017 IBRBS will award 4 (four) $250 Santa School Scholarships so more of our members will be afforded the opportunity to win a Scholarship. IBRBS will continue to award two $500 Higher Education Scholarships. IBRBS is the only organization that has developed a special awards program to recognize individual members and groups for their charitable contributions. Santa’s Heart Awards Program is available to each of you. The Heart Survey form for 2016 is available now, print it out, complete it and get it submitted. No matter how many charitable events or hours you may entertain at, we ask you to participate in the survey. IBRBS is the only organization with a program dedicated to the future health of our children. The Healthy Children’s Initiative provides “Food Rule” cards free to our members to distribute to children encouraging them to improve their eating habits. If you are concerned about the childhood obesity epidemic sweeping this country, of elementary age children being diagnosed with diabetes and other life lengthening illness, we urge you to step up and get involved in this important program. IBRBS is the only organization that purchases and extends FREE to each of our 29 IBRBS Chapters a $1,000,000 Liability Policy that offers extra protection to our members attending an IBRBS Chapter’s regularly scheduled meeting or luncheon. One of the very best reasons to consider converting your “luncheon” group into an IBRBS Chapter, without changing your individual group’s name, character, your goals or membership requirements (or lack thereof)
IBRBS is the only organization to hold periodic member surveys, soliciting ideas, suggestions and even complaints from our members. As we continue to improve the organization and to grow, IBRBS periodically presents Bylaw changes for approval by our members. IBRBS holds annual elections with each member being given the right to vote to elect 1/3 of the Board of Directors each year, allowing for both the infusion of new talent and the retaining of the old. IBRBS is the unquestioned leader and standard setter in competitively priced personal Entertainers Liability Insurance and offers both $4,000,000 and $2,000,000 policies. Each year IBRBS writes more individual policies and with more assistant’s coverage than all the other organizations combined. In 2016 we again set the industry standard by offering other “Character” endorsements as well as a “World-Wide” endorsement. In 2016, we created additional volunteer opportunities for our members, appointing 6 Regional Representatives throughout the country. Each of these representatives are available to visit group meetings as a guest speaker, answering questions, helping you form an IBRBS Chapter in your area, and acting as a liaison between our members and our Board of Directors. We are planning in 2017 to appoint District Representatives to work with the Regional Representatives so each state and area has one or more representatives. We urge you to get involved, consider volunteering as a District Representative or to serve on any of our committees. Thank you for the privilege of serving as your President for the last several years and as we embark on this New Year, .......... I pledge and I know our entire Board of Directors pledges to continue to earn your trust and confidence in our ability to best serve you. We pledge to work together to listen to our members, to communicate with you, to continue to explore and add more member benefit opportunities. Thank you for allowing me to serve, Robert “Bob” Elkin President / CEO
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IBRBS Winter Newsletter
Once again it's time to let the world know about the good charitable works you do! IBRBS is very proud of the thousands of hours our many members contribute, either pro-bono or at reduced rates, to local, regional, and national charitable organizations; and to the families and groups that might not be official organizations, but need and get help from us regardless. We have created this exciting member benefit, the Santa's Heart Program in order to: Measure your efforts to support charities of all kinds To reward our members for these great efforts, and To account for and publicize the good work contributed by each IBRBS member and associate. Please take a few minutes to complete the Santa's Heart Program Survey for the 2016 Calendar Year and help your organization — IBRBS — account for the many hours invested within our worldwide
communities by our members. Simply [Click] on the link below and complete the brief survey in its entirety to be eligible for member honors, rewards, and incentives. Before you begin your survey form you should have the following information ready for input: Your total Santa work hours for 2016 If applicable: total Mrs. Claus and/or Elves work hours for 2016 ( to be added to yours for a total hours for the season) Total Charitable Hours for your combined Santa time and Mrs. Claus/Elf time (pro-bono or charged half or less of your normal fee) List of organizations with hours donated, for which you performed the charity work (up to five) A story about what was your best charity event in 2016 and why was it successful. This information will be used by the committee to recognize the stand-out events that were completed by our member Santas. After analyzing the survey results, IBRBS will identify the best-of-the-best Santa's Heart individuals and Chapter-led efforts. Our six regions of the country will be used to identify a recipient within each region. Honorees will be announced on May 1, 2017 and be featured in our Summer Newsletter. The survey form MUST be completed in one sitting. There is no way to return to it. So please prepare yourself before you start.
Click for Survey
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IBRBS Healthy Children Initiative The American Heart Association’s most recent data indicates that 23.9 million children in the United States are overweight or obese. Of these children, 12.7 are obese. Despite first lady Michelle Obama’s “Let’s Move” campaign, Jamie Oliver’s Food Revolution, parents who pester their children to eat their vegetables and put down the video games as well as health advocates around the world working effortlessly to reduce childhood obesity, research released in October 2016 (October issue of Pediatric Obesity) shows the childhood obesity epidemic is on track to get worse over the next decade. This is a serious problem that will take ALL of us getting involved if we are to turn the corner on this epidemic of obesity in our children. At this writing, and with the help of Santas United to End Childhood Obesity, thousands of our Santa Rule Cards have been passed out to parents and children! Pledges from the children have started arriving – We’re making a difference! Email SANTA@IBRBSantas.org to request a supply of Santa’s Food Rule cards. The IBRBS Healthy Children Facebook page, www.facebook.com/IBRBS, is an effort to reach as many parents as possible. The objective is to bring awareness to the childhood obesity crisis, educate, motivate and ultimately save children from becoming overweight/obese. If you haven’t visited the page and supported it by “LIKING” it, please do that now. You can help us grow and reach more people by sharing the page and posts with everyone you know – you’ll be supporting the IBRBS Healthy Children Initiative, helping children and making a big difference!
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IBRBS Winter Newsletter
Sustainable Santa® Saga: The Miracle on Juniper Street As reported by Helen Nielsen 'Twas Tuesday, Dec. 13, 2016 – just a dozen days before the hard work for Santa really begins on Christmas Eve. Santa Glen, the member of the Real Santa’s United (RSU) to end Childhood Obesity had called in telling Sustainable Santa® he could not be at his post as a Healthy, Happy Santa in the Escondido Farmers Market, held each Tuesday 2:30-6pm in the park at the corner of Juniper St and Grand Ave. Filling in for him, thought Sustainable Santa® (hereafter called SS or just Santa), would give SS a great opportunity to assess how Santa Glen was doing with regard to the mission of the RSU to present their program intended to switch America’s children OFF the Fast, Junk/Snack and Processed “food” in favor of eating “Real Food” – the type available at Farmers Markets. To Santa’s delight, virtually every family approaching Santa, as he took up his position atop the small hill next to the Christmas Tree under the Park’s Gazebo, had not only been given one of the cards containing Santa’s 3 Food Rules – rules designed to wean kids off the unhealthy fare many now consume - but they all said they had “successfully answered all the questions.” Questions? What questions? Santa thought. So he asked. “The ones where that Santa asked us to name three vegetables in each of the 6 colors on his ‘Eat the Rainbow’ chart”- came the answer. Some said they had trouble with the Orange color – answering “an orange” only to be coached that an orange is a fruit, not a vegetable. Plus it is full of “natural sugar” the Santa had told them – so “eat that orange – don’t drink it” Santa Glen had admonished the kids – reminding them that the fiber in the orange is also important to consume. For others the Whites were challenging. Cauliflower had been the prevalent answer. And onions. Few had remembered turnips and parsnips were also important choices. “Of course,” thought SS, Santa Glen had spent his career teaching 3rd Grade. How clever of him to turn the Real Santa’s United’s push to have kids “Eat the Rainbow” into a quiz. This is exactly the type of added creativity the Real Santa’s United to end Childhood Obesity bring to their deployments as Heathy, Happy Santas in Farmers Markets – where they carry out a well-planned program intended to help get the kids OFF the Fast, Snack and Processed food which are destroying their health. The Santa’s goal is to get them hooked on “eating real food” – and their programs are working. And they are getting huge media attention for their efforts, not only locally, but internationally. To see one from the Huffington Post go to: http://www.huffingtonpost.ca/rachel-parent/forget-sugarcoated-santa-_b_13558342.html
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From Howard Graham On December 2, 2016 I was once again the Santa for the Westchester All Star Veteran Concert. This is my 3rd year serving as the Official Santa for the concert and the 2nd year as the Santa for the Christmas CD which contains all original music by some of the Industries top artist from today and yesterday. The pictures attached are 1 my New Suit I had Commissioned for the Honor of our Active Duty, Veterans and First Responders which was widely received. The second picture taken at Radio City when I was presented a Plaque for my participation by Bill Edwards Executive Director. To order CD http://www.allstarschistmas.com
VA Study Finds EEG Can Help Tell Apart PTSD & Mild Traumatic Brain Injury - A recent VA study points to a possible breakthrough in differentiating between post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI), otherwise known as a concussion. (12/20/16) Veterans Crisis Line Improves Service with New Call Center Opening in Atlanta - The Department of Veteran Affairs cut the ribbon today for its new Veteran Crisis Line (VCL) satellite office in Atlanta allowing the life-saving hotline to expand capacity by nearly 600 Veterans each day essentially doubling VA’s ability to help Veterans in need. (12/20/16) VA Grants Full Practice Authority to Advance Practice Registered Nurses - The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) today announced that it is amending provider regulations to permit full practice authority to three roles of VA advanced practice registered nurses (APRN) to practice to the full extent of their education, training, and certification, regardless of State restrictions that limit such full practice authority, except for applicable State restrictions on the authority to prescribe and administer controlled substances, when such APRNs are acting within the scope of their VA employment. (12/14/16) - See more at: http://www.va.gov/opa/
pressrel/#sthash.HgOb746w.dpuf
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IBRBS Winter Newsletter
From: Santa Steve Eastis CFO IBRBS and Former Tax Preparer State CA. Many Santa’s end up with a combination of income types: income from regular wages and income from selfemployment. Income from wages involves a regular paycheck with all appropriate taxes, social security, and Medicare withheld. Income from self-employment may be in the form of cash, check, or goods, with no withholding of any kind. The business-related expenses are deducted differently for each type of income, and you will need to complete several different forms in order to do so. Review the guidelines below to determine the correct way to deduct your expenses. If you get a regular paycheck: If you've got a gig lasting more than a few weeks, chances are you will get paid regular wages with all taxes withheld. At the end of the year, your employer will issue you a form W-2. If this regular paycheck is for entertainment-related work (and not just for waiting tables to keep the rent paid), you will deduct related expenses on a Schedule A, under "Unreimbursed Employee business expenses," or on Form 2106, which will give you a total to carry to the schedule A. The type of expenses that go here are: 1.Union dues. Apparel: Uniforms, costumes, special shoes (tap, ballet, character, or anything else not suitable for street wear) theatrical makeup, and wigs. Cleaning of work-related apparel. Education: Acting, voice, or dance lessons, or other education related to improving or maintaining your performance skills. Photographs, videos, or CDs used for selfpromotion and marketing. 2. If you are considered an independent contractor: Independent contractors get paid by cash or check with no withholding of any kind. This means that you are responsible for all of the Social Security and Medicare normally paid or withheld by your employer; this is called Self-Employment Tax. In order to take your deductions, you will need to complete a Schedule C, which breaks down expenses into even more detail. In addition to the items listed above, you will probably have items in the following categories: Advertising: Promotional and marketing materials go here, as do any ads you place offering your services. Legal and professional fees: Commissions to agents, attorney fees, and tax preparation fees go here. You can also put union dues here if the membership is not tied to any one job. Auto/transportation expenses: Track your mileage to auditions, keep receipts for the bus or subway, and hang on to plane and train ticket info. insurance: Any special insurance or bond required because of your work. NOTE: Health insurance is deducted elsewhere, so don't include that here. Supplies: Shoes, costumes, makeup and office supplies go here. Other: Postage, cell phone if devoted exclusively to work, fax or photocopy fees, classes, reference materials, subscriptions, and anything else related to getting or performing work. If in doubt, keep the receipt, note what it was for, and ask your tax professional or the IRS. 3. If you have a combination of income types: You will be better off subtracting as many expenses as you can on the Schedule C, since this will lower your Self Employment Tax. If an expense relates to both types, either put it all on the C or break it down and put a percentage on the C. Don't lie, but take the time to figure out what can legitimately be deducted against each type of income. 4. If all of this seems overwhelming or confusing: Go to a professional tax preparer. The most important thing for you to do is keep track of your income and expenses; you can always pay someone to put everything in the right place on the right form for you. But good recordkeeping is crucial. Even the best tax professionals cannot save you money or keep you out of trouble if you don't have good records. Keep all receipts, even if you just throw them in a big envelope marked "Taxes." Note daily expenses in whatever kind of calendar you use for appointments. The IRS loves to see stuff in writing. And don't forget the benefit of educating yourself; taking even a few online classes in business tax law can help you keep your company (yourself) from being faced with problematic tax issues.
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IBRBS 2017 BOARD OF DIRECTORS ELECTION
VOTE The election of members to the Board of Directors Opens 2/1/17 at 9:00 am PST. It will Close on February 15, 2017 at 9:00 pm PST. There are eight candidates competing for six positions on the Board. You can vote for up to six candidates. The top four candidates in vote count will be elected to a three year term. The fifth and sixth candidates in vote count will be elected to a two year term. In case of a tie, a run-off election will be scheduled to open February 20th and close on February 25th. The newly elected members will be seated during the March 8th Board Meeting (held via Skype).
The Candidates are listed in Alphabetical Order. Thomas Carmody, Owen Davenport, Howard Graham, Fred Selinsky, Ed Sevcik, David Shuman, Robert Turner & Jim Williams
I have spent over 47 years in the classroom educating Middle and High
Thomas Carmody
School students in how to become contributing members of our society while preparing them to meet the challenges of the changing world we live in. In 2004, I was blessed by the discovery of who I have become, "Santa Claus". Besides being blessed with an authentic bearded look, I have also been blessed with a heart that reflects the true meaning of the Spirit of Santa Claus. Over the last twelve years, I have been able to capture the magical character and performance of the secular Santa Claus and blend it with the Spirit of the Christian perspective of the real reason for the Christmas season and the birth of the Christ child.
The past three years, as a sitting Board of Directors member of IBRBS, I have dedicated myself to the membership of the Christmas Community and the International Brotherhood of Real Bearded Santas. As a part of my duties as External Vice President, I have traveled around this country helping to support and create new chapters of our great organization. Because of my efforts and the efforts of the entire leadership team of IBRBS, we have become the new standard for Santa organizations in the world. Our work is not finished yet and so I would like to continue the work as a part of the IRBS Board of Directors.
PROFESSIONAL LIFE Orland Square Mall — Chicago, IL * Santa for The Noerr Programs — Arvada, CO (2005-2008) Fashion Mall at Pentagon City — Alexandria, VA * Tri-County Mall — Cincinnati, OH Founding Member: Fellowship of Servant Santas* Member: The Amalgamated Order of Real Bearded Santas (AORBS) * Member: Fraternal Order of Real Bearded Santas (FORBS) Member of Santa Claus and Company: Honored as Channel 7's #1 A-List Santa Member of the International Brotherhood of Real-Bearded Santas * Board of Directors and member of The Society of Santa 2010-2012 * Board of Directors and member of IBRBS * External Vice President (3 years) for IBRBS
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IBRBS Winter Newsletter
I have been a natural bearded Santa for 22 years. I am currently the Regional Rep for North Central region. I am also on the membership committee. I have worked in a non profit for the last 13 years. While in my current job I have served on Terre Haute Eastside Housing Board.
Owen Davenport
I would like to see our group grow by leaps and bounds. I would like to see chapters in all 50 states and also abroad. I would like to see our chapters encourage each other to do some sort of a community service each month to help bring awareness to children who are neglected or homeless. Since I work with the homeless this is one of my goals, to bring awareness to children who do not have home or good support system. Also I would like to see our members and chapters awarded somehow for helping with these ideas.
I would like to see more benefits for our members. We are off to a good start with the insurance and background checks. I am open to listening to suggestions and bringing the feedback to our fellow board members. I would like for the board to have members from each region so that we can represent all Santas and Mrs Claus. I helped form the Hoosier Santa group and each year we do a toy drive for two groups in our state. We did a great drive a few years ago for tornado victims in southern Indiana. I feel that IBRBS can be the best group of professional Santas in the world. We have a great start and need to keep moving forward. We need to remember we are there for the children and not our own gratification. I would love to see us grow and continue to bring excellence to the Santa community, we can do this by all working together
I am applying for and requesting consideration to run for the 2017 Board of Directors position and if nominated and elected would be proud to serve on the Board for the next three years. The following is brief outline of myself and what I feel are qualifying traits. I have been a Santa for the past 30 years starting out first with my own family as some have done and gradually moved from immediate family to family and friends and church requests.
Howard Graham I was the Santa for the VA for several years serving veterans in Castle Point and Montrose VA Hospitals in New York for a number of years while a member of Rolling Thunder for over 10 years. I also served them as Vice President and Chairman of the Board during our monthly board meetings. Rolling Thunder is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization serving veterans nationwide. I serve as the Santa for Operation Santa in New York City which has been in operation for over 110 years serving the citizens of New York with help in fulfilling wishes from the iconic Post Office of Miracle on 34th St. I have served as Santa for St Jude's Children Hospital and the Wounded Veterans Concert where I serve as the Ambassador of goodwill during the concert, appear in videos and adorn the cover of Christmas CD’s. I am 1 of 2 Santa's located in Radio City in New York. I am also the Santa for Brooks Brothers in New York and various personal appearances through out New York. I have been involved with IBRBS serving on the Policy and Procedures Committees now known as the regulatory committee. I have mentored many Santa's over the years including some who endorsed my nomination. I served as the American Ambassador to the World Santa Claus Congress for 2016 and will be returning in 2017. have been involved with non-profits in the form of Veteran Organizations for over 40 years and served as a counselor for over 6 years. I believe that those who know me will say that I am fair and open to deal with and will help guide in experience and knowledge both on a personal level and as a Member of the Board. Thank You for your consideration Howard J Graham IBRBS Member and Board of Director
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Fred Selinsky
My fellow members of IBRBS, Santas and Mrs Claus. I come to you today because I am up for reelection to the Board of Directors. During my tenure on the Board, as Board Chairman and Regulatory Committee chair, I have worked for you to improve and define our By-laws and initiate a Policy and Procedure Manual. You may ask why? Well I have always believed a successful Organization should have a solid set of rules and policies to strengthen it's foundation. To be the preeminent Santa Organization in the world we need to have full membership involvement. I believe the route to this will be more educational and communicative benefits for the members.
My life as a professional Santa goes back 20 years to when I met Mrs Claus. Throughout the years I have experienced working in malls, acting in TV promotions, news media and modeled for Sky Mall Magazine and other ad campaigns. As a 24/365 Santa I am always available for those Special Visits to the local hospitals and home care. My Santa life outside IBRBS is devoted to my Family, my dogs, Volunteering with Hospice of the Valley, facilitating for New Song Center for Grieving Children , a mentor for Hope & A Future's foster children in Arizona. I bring with me a calm wisdom and extremely good knowledge of the business of being Santa. Honesty, integrity and the ability to be a good listener is my road map. With a Charismatic personality and being a Good Communicator I work well with others on the Board and have a clear sense of direction. First thank the five Santas’ that nominated me, I will not let you down. Second thank YOU for reading this and considering me. Short story: Man hears rousing sermon at mass to volunteer time on behalf of the church. As a new retiree he has the time and feels called. He meets with the parish priest and returns home shortly after. His wife asks “what happened, it seemed like a short meeting.” He replied “I tried to volunteer but apparently there’s already a pope!” I would like to give back, serve and am willing to serve on an IBRBS committee that is the least populated.
Ed Sevcik My Santa experience is ten years as a professional Santa, doing private parties, print work, media ads and corporate events, 2016 will be working in “the chair” for the full season. Business experience, training, administrative and financial experience include having spent 30 years in sales, sales management and as a General Manager of a janitorial supplier. I was responsible for over 20 employees including six outside salespeople, 20,000 sq. ft. showroom and running the entire business for absentee owners. Sales peaked at over six million dollars. Every aspect of the business was documented and reported monthly from percent of out of stocks to complete accurate verified financials. Under my watch and the team working with me we grew the company from two million to six in eight years. Growth and development of IBRBS membership. With a degree in marketing and 30 years in field sales experience I believe the way for me to assist in adding new members is one at a time, one Facebook friend at a time, one very personal invitation at a time. I wish I had a magical formula however I don’t believe one exists. One on one, one at a time. Two a week is over 300 during my membership on the board. I’m very open to ideas of mass recruitment, however I’ve grown several volunteer organizations one member at a time. I’m light in experience with local and national organization participation. I did, at the tail end, become involved in The Santa’s Heart Award project. I would like to make up for my delay and contribute what I can and serve where most needed. My vision for the future is to participate in projects like Branson, be an ear and mouth piece for YOU and grab new Santas to mentor them in both the personal and business side of being the best Santa that they can be. IBRBS has sooooo much to offer, by reaching out to non members I believe they will see the benefits of joining. I have and will encourage all Santas and helpers to join! Thank you for your time and consideration and I hope I’ve earned YOUR vote!
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David Shuman
I served the Board of Directors as Director ex officio this past year and enjoyed being part of this great organization. I am now offering my name as a candidate as a full director. I have worked as Santa for 16 years, working with photo studios in and around Atlanta. Have had spots on national television; TLC, Food Network, PBS, GPTV, ABC Atlanta, ETC3 cable, Windstream cable, North Georgia Now cable news. I worked 14 years on the Santa Trains for the Blue Ridge Scenic Railway. I am currently working the second largest Mall in the country in Honolulu, Hawaii, Ala Moana Center.
I am the founder of the North Georgia Chapter of IBRBS. We had 12 charter members at our first gathering. We now have over 350 current members. We meet every two months beginning in January, with our last gathering in September. I operate the Northpole Santa School along with Santa Mert Winkle, Santa Ernest Hinson in North Georgia providing fellowship and education to new Santas and veteran Santas in the art of being Santa I believe I can be an asset to the Board of Directors. I have spoken with many IBRBS members and can be their voice on the board. I think as director, we must listen to our membership and follow their lead. We should continue to be open to change for the betterment of IBRBS. We need to stop worrying about real beard vs traditional beard. Santa is in the heart not the beard. I operated Georgia Air Control Service in Atlanta, Georgia for twenty years. We serviced The Orange Bowl, Hickory Farms of Ohio, South DeKalb Mall, Piedmont Management Companies, Grant Cities, Refrigeration, HVAC and Electrical needs. I see IBRBS continuing to grow into a worldwide diverse organization of Santa and Santa Related professionals through education and fellowship
Robert Turner
Since my first year of putting on the Red Suit, I have been a member of IBRBS. It is a decision that has benefitted not only myself, but the families and businesses I visit as well. A little about me. I have been in the Television and Communications industry for over thirty years. Starting out in radio and then onto television as a Writer, Director, Editor and finally a News Videographer for the past 25 years. I love what I do, and the interaction I have with Politicians, Business leaders, law enforcement and everyday people of my community.
You can only imagine the look on the interviewees face when they see Santa coming through the door with all his video gear. I along with my Wife are able to spread Holiday Cheer to thousands of Children across Oklahoma every year. I was the very first Regional Representative for IBRBS and am so excited what this new level of direct communication will have for our members. Educating the membership about this new level is key to the growth and prosperity of IBRBS I feel. Being a part of a national organization is truly a strength in numbers opportunity for many benefits, but it is learning about and connecting with other Santas and Mrs Claus in your own area that presents the best chance for growth. This growth through Fellowship with others within your area will enhance the performance of everyone in the Christmas community by sharing ideas and stories with each other. By forming more local chapters, you are able to have personal contact with more people like yourself that believe in giving the Children the best experience they can enjoy. It also allows for help within your community to make sure that Santa visits can be covered when you are simply booked and a family or event is needing a Santa. You will have firsthand knowledge and assurance you are recommending a quality and safe Santa for their enjoyment. I know this works firsthand. In the summer of 2015 I started reaching out to other Santas within Oklahoma in hope of getting them together for a “Red Hat Chat”. That first gathering brought together 10 Santas from across Oklahoma and sparked a desire to keep meeting and to grow. Today, the OKLAHOMA Santas Chapter of IBRBS is well over 35 members, of which 26 are dues paying members of IBRBS (that is continuing to grow as they hear and learn of the IBRBS benefits) and that is just within a years’ time of growth. I know it worked here in Oklahoma and see it happening all across the country as new Chapters are being developed and encouraged to spread. It is for this reason I seek a position on the IBRBS Board of Directors. IBRBS Winter Newsletter 13
Jim Williams
In 1963 I was a Product Design Major at North Carolina State just as things were heating up in Vietnam. I dropped out of college and joined the Marine Corps. After boot camp at Parris Island and advanced infantry training I went to Electronics School in Millington, TN and became an Avionics Technician in the Marine Corps Airwing during the Vietnam War. I received an early discharge in 1967 to attend school at Ringling College of Art and Design in Sarasota, Florida. After graduation, I was employed as an Illustrator at the University of South Florida in Tampa. I left there after a couple of years and took a job as the Marketing Director for the Central Florida RCA Distributer. I left there to become a partner in a couple of local advertising agencies before starting my own agency and design studio in 1970 which I ran for the next 20 years. In 1984 I was awarded Advertising Professional of the Year by the Tampa Advertising Federation. I served on their board in various offices for 10 years and as President in 1988-89.
I first experienced the joy of portraying Santa Claus in December, 2005. A photographer friend who had been the Florida Area Director for Santa Plus had started her own business and need a Santa. That first experience was very gratifying despite the uncomfortable wig and designer beard. I was hooked and decided to grow out my own beard and hair in preparation for the following Christmas season. I was blessed by both being naturally white. Right after the first Discover Santa Convention at Branson in 2006 I helped organize a luncheon in Tampa for interested local Santas. That was the beginnings of the Florida Palm Tree Santas. In attendance was Santas Bob Elkin, Vic Sitmer, Frank Kolaba, David Smith, Pete MacKenzie, Ernest Berger of Santa America and myself along with three Mrs. Clauses. Since that meager beginning the Palm Tree Santas has grown to just short of 100 Santas and Mrs. Clauses. I serve on the Board as Vice President and webmaster with Bob Elkin as President. In 2007 I was doing a number of photo events as Santa at local veterinarian offices and needed a chair that would accommodate Santa with large dogs and their owners. Not finding one, I designed and built the first fold-up portable Couch for Claus. I started Seats for Santa and I have since sold over 150 units via my website on the internet. I am a three-time graduate of Santa Tim Connaghan’s International University of Santa Claus and do 3040 appearances as Santa each year. I have gone through training and worked as a volunteer with Lifepath Hospice in Tampa as a member of Santa America. I have served for 25 years in my Home Owners Association various offices including as President twice. I Have been on the Board of Directors for the Florida Palm Tree Santas for 10 years. As a founding member of the Palm Tree Santas Drill Team we won the Best of Show Award in the 2010 Celebrate Santa parade in Gatlinburg, Tennessee. I was on the Board of Directors and Vice President and webmaster for three years. The PTS Drill Team remains one of the best community outreach groups honoring our military veterans. In 2012 I became a charter member of the Knights of St. Nicholas. I have been a member of IBRBS since before its evolution from AORBS and hope to actively support its growth through the coming years. Submitted for your consideration, Tampa Santa Jim Williams
IBRBS 2017 BOARD OF DIRECTORS ELECTION
VOTE The election of members to the Board of Directors Opens 2/1/17 at 9:00 am PST. It will Close on February 15, 2017 at 9:00 pm PST 14
IBRBS Winter Newsletter
Ministry of Fun UK Nov 2016 Heart of America Santas
OK Santas Jan meeting
PT Santas Jan meeting
AZ Santa Jan meeting
SoCal Santas Jan Meeting IBRBS Winter Newsletter
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A look at out side sets from around the country
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IBRBS Winter Newsletter
More inside set’s from around the country IBRBS Winter Newsletter
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Looks every bit the Santa KNOXVILLE, Tenn. Eric Schmitt-Matzen Click on Link to see story Claus.http://www.knoxnews.com/story/entertainment/columnists/samvenable/2016/12/11/sam-venable-santa-grants-final-wish/95091356/
America’s largest mall welcomes its first black Santa. Larry Jefferson, the Mall of America's first black Santa, Santas is a retired U.S. ArmyAZ veteran. ClickSept on link2016 to see story.
http://www.newsobserver.com/news/nation-world/national/ article118427608.html
Claus Play: What it’s like to be a Santa stand-in Click on link To see Story Ed Taylor / Robert Gerardi http://www.sgvtribune.com/arts-andentertainment/20161204/claus-play-what-itslike-to-be-a-santa-stand-in
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IBRBS Winter Newsletter
Annual South Coast Plaza Tree Lighting Ceremony LA Times Click on link to see story http://www.latimes.com/socal/daily-pilot/ news/tn-dpt-me-1118-south-coast-plaza-tree -gallery-20161117-photogallery.html Robert Seutter “Santa True� / #ActionSanta
Santa Rocks in Newall Click on link to see story http://www.signalscv.com/2016/12/11/santarocks-newhall/
Santa Stanley Taub
Shop with a Cop program with the Santa Ana P.D. and MainPlace Mall
Santa Steve Eastis How the big man prepares for the big day: Jolly pictures show Santas from across the world gathering in Missouri to learn how to bulk up their bellies, whiten their whiskers and give their best 'Ho Ho Ho' Click on link for full story http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-4060722/Santas-worldgather-Branson-Missouri-swap-tips-perfect-craft.html
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ANNOUNCING OUR
2017 SANTA SCHOOL SCHOLARSHIPS!
THIS YEAR WE HAVE FOUR
$250 GRANTS TO MAKE.
CHECK OUT THE DETAILS AND DOWNLOAD YOUR APPLICATION
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[CLICK HERE]
IBRBS Winter Newsletter
ANNOUNCING OUR
2017 SANTA SCHOOL SCHOLARSHIPS!
THIS YEAR WE HAVE FOUR
$250 GRANTS TO MAKE.
CHECK OUT THE DETAILS AND DOWNLOAD YOUR APPLICATION
IBRBS Winter Newsletter
[CLICK HERE]
21
ANNOUNCING OUR
2017 SANTA SCHOOL SCHOLARSHIPS!
THIS YEAR WE HAVE FOUR
$250 GRANTS TO MAKE.
CHECK OUT THE DETAILS AND DOWNLOAD YOUR APPLICATION [CLICK
22
IBRBS Winter Newsletter
HERE]
ANNOUNCING OUR
2017 SANTA SCHOOL SCHOLARSHIPS!
THIS YEAR WE HAVE FOUR
$250 GRANTS TO MAKE.
CHECK OUT THE DETAILS AND DOWNLOAD YOUR APPLICATION [CLICK
IBRBS Winter Newsletter
HERE]
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Links to Sale Sites
Links to Jobs
Santas Closet Used items only www.facebook.com/groups/ 1416112708712462/ Santas Clauset http://santasclauset.org/ Mrs. Claus Creations Summer Sale www.youtube.com/watch?v= Ov-MAMWhB1U King-size Direct www.kingsizedirect.com Santa NP Outlet www.santanpoutlet.com/ Sleigh Master (Beard Balm) www.sleighmaster.com Santas Wardrobe www.santaswardrobe.com/ Awesome Santa Belts www.santabelts.com/ RPCM Cool Vest www.store.coolvest.com/flexvest/ Seat for Santa www.seatsforsanta.com/ Toys for Santa ToysforSanta.Com Little Darlin's Creations www.littledarlinscreations.com/ SantaSCents www.santascents.com/ Sew Santa www.sewsanta.com/ The Sewing Elves www.thesewingelves.com/ Upscale St. Nick www.upscalestnick.com/ Wolek's Famous Moustaches & Beard www.mustacheparlor.com/ Santa Dave 4 You http://www.asanta4you.com/ creations.html Adele’s of Hollywood http://www.adelescostumes.com
Worldwide Photography 888-725-8496 http://www.wwponline.com The Noerr Programs 303-642-7147 http://www.noerrprograms.com Cherry Hill Photo 800-969-2440 http://www.cherryhillphoto.com
Links to Schools Ed Taylor (Santa School) www.the-santa-claus-conservatory.com Tim Connaghan (School 4 Santa) www.school4santas.com/ Susan Mesco (Professional Santa Claus School) www.amerevents.com/santa-clausschool Saint Nicholas Institute www.stnicholasinstitute.org/ Northern Lights Santa Academy www.northernlightssantaacademy.com Charles W. Howard Santa Claus School www.santaclausschool.com/ North Pole Santa School www.northpolesantaschool.org
Contact us for a Classified Ad Newsletter@IBRBSantas.org 24
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Planning for this event is well on its way and we in the Rocky Mountain region are excited about hosting this wonderful event. The event will be designed so that the entire Christmas Community has an opportunity to come together and celebrate who we are as representatives of the Christmas Spirit
$ponsorships Opportunities Available * Seminars / Workshops* * Blood Drive * * Vendors / Exhibits * * Sleigh Show * Golf * Please stay tuned for more info coming your way about registration fees and Hotel deals
@ISC Denver 26
IBRBS Winter Newsletter