Wilsonville Lifestyle December 2024 by Active Media Publishing Group

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Wilsonville Lifestyle Magazine

DECEMBER 2024

Published by

Active Media Publishing Group

PO Box 672, Aurora, OR 97002

info@ActiveMediaUSA.com 503.825.2111

ADMINISTRATION

Matthew Nelson, Publisher Catrina Nelson, CFO

Tara Weidman, Executive Assistant

Raeann Van Arsadall, Business Development

PRODUCTION

Jeremy Okai Davis, Art Director

Donovan Darling, Creative Project Manager

Brittany Jungenberg, Director of Marketing

Kate Astle, Copyeditor

Kaity VanHoose, Social Media Manager

SENIOR GRAPHIC DESIGNERS

Hilary Berg Sean Carver

Brittany Jungenberg Morgan King

Shawn Schmidt

GRAPHIC DESIGNERS

Dani DeGraw, Justin Nelson, Kaity VanHoose

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Patti Jo Brooks Olive Gallagher

Angie Helvey Lucas Holmgren

Robert Matsumura Dennis McNabb

Peter Murphy Edward Novak

Malia Riggs Kelly Romo

Gretchen Van Lente Ty Walker

Alice Williams Justin Woomer

Kerry Yu

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Laurel Bice Carly Carpenter

Tyler Francke Angie Helvey

Brittany Jungenberg Malaina Kinne

Lisa Kuhlman Kara Langley

MJ Media Productions Andrew Sambuceto

Henry Schifter Hayley Starkey

ADVERTISING SPECIALISTS

Don Ormsby Bill Kistler

Stephanie Baker Peggy Jacobs

David Long Chris O’Brien

John Zobrist Brad Marti

Shelley Zeman Tina Toney

Darren Dwyer Lynnette Scott

Looking to reach local consumers?

We specialize in direct-mail products: community magazine advertising, mailing inserts, postcards and more. For more details, call 503.825.2111 or email info@ActiveMediaUSA.com

BARS

Buttered Rum Pecan Pie Bars

Cranberry Orange Bliss Bars

Frosted Gingerbread Bars

COOKIES

Peppermint Brownie Cookies

Red Velvet Cookies

Spiced Berry Thumbprint Cookies

Orange Walnut Coconut Macaroons w/ Chocolate Drizzle (GF)

CUPCAKES

Pumpkin Sparkle

Pumpkin cupcake w/cream cheese buttercream & festive gold flair

Hot Cocoa

Chocolate cupcake w/ toasted mallow buttercream & chocolate drizzle

Frosty Vanilla

Buttery vanilla cupcake with soft blue buttercream & sugar crystals

DESSERT SHOOTERS

Vanilla Bean Panna Cotta (GF)

Cookie Butter Mousse

Berry Cheesecake

Pumpkin Churro (GF & V)

Beware Porch Poachers

Keep your holiday deliveries safe

ATeam Up with Neighbors

Santa also advises to build a network with your neighbors to keep an eye out for each other’s deliveries. Coordinate pick-ups if needed and keep a lookout for any suspicious vehicles or strangers in the area. “The spirit of community is the best gift.”

 Get to Know Your Delivery Person

Chances are you have a regular carrier for your deliveries. Take a moment to introduce yourself and express your appreciation. If there have been incidents of theft, kindly let them know.

 Ship to Safe Locations When Possible

If you’re not home during the day, consider sending packages to a secure alternate location, like your office or a trusted friend’s house. Be sure to check with your employer if work delivery is allowed. It’s a simple way to keep those surprises safe and sound.

 Leave Special Delivery Instructions

By Robert Wurpes, Wilsonville Police Chief

s the year’s final months roll in, there’s a cheerful hustle, and holiday shopping kicks into high gear for many of us. I’m reminded of how quickly time passes — it feels like last December was just here! We consulted with Mr. December, Santa himself, for some holiday advice this season. So here are some helpful tips to keep those presents secure and your holidays merry and bright.

 Opt for Secure Shipping Options

Choose a shipping option that lets you schedule deliveries for times you’ll be home, or select one that requires a signature. Let your friends and family know to consider this when sending packages to you as well. Nothing ruins a holiday faster than a missing gift.

 Track Your Packages

Familiarize yourself with the tracking process so you know when packages are set to arrive. This small step makes a big difference! “I’ve got my tracking system up north,” Santa adds, “and believe me, it’s worth it.”

When expecting a package and unable to be home, leave instructions for the carrier to place the package in a safer location, or better yet, opt for a “delivery pickup” service. Many stores now offer pickup lockers or hold-at-location options that prevent packages from sitting unguarded on your doorstep.

 Consider a Porch Camera

Today’s porch cameras are affordable and easy to install, giving you peace of mind by keeping an eye on your deliveries. “It’s like a modern sleigh surveillance system,” Santa winks.

If Your Package Is Stolen

If you do experience package theft, report it to us and provide any camera footage if available. Notify the business you ordered from, inform your neighbors, and check with your credit card company to see if purchase protection might cover the loss.

For parents with little ones, you can track Mr. Claus’ holiday delivery progress via our military at www. noradsanta.org.

Profiles

spotlight december

A Charles Dickens Christmas Wednesday, December 4

11am-12:30pm Zoom

Inspired by Washington Irving, Dickens wrote five Christmas novellas, including the classic "A Christmas Carol " This program explores these enchanting tales and their lasting influence.

STEAM Stuff

Wednesday, December 11

2:30-3:30pm Rose Room

Drop-in program for hands-on STEAM activities at the library For elementary age children (kindergarten to 5th grade) with an adult in attendance.

Space Talks

The Bold Mission of Apollo 8 Saturday, December 14 11am-12:30pm Oak Room

On December 21, 1968, a powerful Saturn V booster rocket launched for the first time with three astronauts aboard not to circle the Earth, but to enter orbit around the Moon.

Booknotes

Concert

Mark & Helena Greathouse

Saturday, December 14 2-3pm Central Area "Remembering Czech Christmas": immerse yourself in a celebration of traditional Czech Christmas festivities with this harmonious blend of music and dance.

Your donations stay local and make an impact!

The Wilsonville Public Library Foundation and the Wilsonville Friends of the Library make a real difference in our library services From financial support for summer reading events to additional adult programming and outreach, both non-profit organizations play a vital role in making our library unique

For more than 20 years the Wilsonville Public Library Foundation has funded innovative programs for children and adults beyond what the library’s annual budget supports. The Foundation proudly helps to create a culture of learning across our community. They have supported the Dolly Parton Imagination Library for over 10 years, as well as underwriting many other longterm projects such as Summer Science Adventures and our local Little Free Library boxes popping up throughout the community.

The support of the Wilsonville Friends of the Library has also been instrumental in expanding library services and opportunities In addition to memberships and donations, the Friends generate revenue through the volunteerstaffed Twice Sold Tales Bookstore located in the lobby of the library. Thanks to the Friends, we can use the income from sales of donated books to enhance the library’s services and programs, to acquire special items for our collections, and to purchase otherwise unfunded equipment.

Bookstore and donation revenue goes directly into supporting the library including programs like:

The Heritage Collection Library Cultural Passes

Monthly Booknotes concerts Children, Adult, and Teen Summer Reading Programs

There are many ways to help both the Foundation and the Friends through monetary donations, volunteering, or shopping in the bookstore. Please help the library make a difference this holiday season.

wplf.org/ways-to-give/ Twice Sold Tales Bookstore

8200 SW Wilsonville Road Wilsonville, OR 97070

Holiday Break

Tuesday, December 24

Holiday Break Wednesday, December 25

Laser Revolution

Introducing Aerolase Nano Elite

Wilsonville, now is time to give your skin the rejuvenation it deserves without the downtime! I’m

thrilled to announce that I am now an ambassador for the Aerolase Nano Elite laser, a revolutionary treatment that’s redefining skincare for men and woman alike. This innovative device is designed to target a wide range of skin concerns while ensuring a comfortable, nodowntime experience, making it perfect for those of us leading busy lives but not willing to compromise on self-care.

The AeroLase Nano Elite laser is a state-of-the-art device that uses 650-microsecond technology to deliver precise, effective treatment for various skin issues. Whether you’re dealing with fine lines and wrinkles, age spots, uneven skin tone, or even acne scars, those pesky red lines on the side of your nose, or unwanted hair this laser can help rejuvenate and refresh your complexion. Unlike traditional laser treatments that often require significant recovery time, the Nano Elite offers an effective solution with zero downtime, allowing you to step out of the medspa with radiant skin and go about your day immediately.

One of the standout benefits of the Aerolase Nano Elite laser is its versatility. It works effectively on all skin types and tones. The laser stimulates collagen production, which is crucial as we age, to help maintain skin elasticity and reduce the appearance

of fine lines. The result? A firmer, brighter, and more youthfullooking complexion.

Another remarkable aspect is the comfort level during treatment. Many traditional laser procedures can feel uncomfortable or even painful, but with the Aerolase Nano Elite, the experience is gentle and calming. This means you don’t have to brace yourself for an unpleasant process, making it easier to incorporate into your routine.

As the new ambassador for Aerolase, I’m committed to bringing you the best in beauty and skincare innovation. If you’re ready to invest in a treatment that offers maximum results with minimal effort, the Aerolase Nano Elite laser is your go-to solution. Discover the beauty of youthful, glowing skin without the wait—because you deserve it!

Christine Lewy

WISHING YOU A HAPPY

HOLIDAY

WISHING YOU A HAPPY SEASON

DREAMING OF A NEW HOME FOR THE NEW YEAR?

We’re known for fast pre-approvals and on-time closings.

and on-time closings.

Partnering directly with Fannie Mae, Freddie Mac and Ginnie Mae gives us the loan programs to fit most situations.

Meet in person and enjoy quicker turn times.

Long-term realtionships

We service most of our own loans, and will let you know if you’re eligible for a refi.

Path to Peace

A soothing space for self-discovery

space in the heart of the Charbonneau District, and now she’s built a fantastic team that includes three of the teachers from her training program. “Our membership has been growing weekly, and I’ve met the most incredible people,” she says. “It’s truly a dream.”

By Angie Helvey, Active Media

Photos by Carly Carpenter, Active Media & Rebeckah Straff Photography

The physical and mental benefits of yoga are endless, and for Amanda Wheeler, the ancient mind-body practice has completely changed her life. “Yoga is much more than fancy poses; it’s truly about vulnerability and connection,” she explains. Likewise, Soul Stretch Yoga is more than just a yoga and meditation studio: it’s a place to heal and nurture the relationship between your body and brain in a loving community that provides a safe space to relax and be yourself amidst the world’s chaos.

Amanda founded Soul Stretch Yoga just over six months ago, but her yoga journey began long before that. She’d been an athlete since childhood with a long career in softball until a brutal car accident in 2009 changed everything. “It was an intense recovery,” she recalls. “I had to learn to walk again and completely rehabilitate myself.” She began searching for a way to replace movement in her life, and that’s when yoga entered the chat, the perfect solution that was low impact and wouldn’t worsen her injuries.

After another surgery in 2023 to help her chronic pain levels following the accident, she still felt disconnected from herself and her body, so she decided to deepen her practice and join a yoga teacher training program. The community welcomed her with infinite support and unconditional love. “I realized that was the missing piece,” she says. She found a private studio

Most of the uniquely styled classes at Soul Stretch are designed to improve strength and mobility in a safe space that fosters personal growth and self-transformation. Designed for all levels, classes are kept small with a maximum of seven people, and are structured to fit each individual and their needs. “Our instructors observe our students and their limitations, so they can really connect with them and guide them through their practice,” Amanda explains. “It’s that intimate space that allows them to meet students at their level and provide the best experience possible. All of our teachers offer something different, but each one’s delivery is absolute magic – I don’t know how else to describe it.”

Whether you’re an experienced yogi or starting for the first time, the 12 classes offer something for everyone. Restorative and Yin Yoga are geared more toward beginners, while Vinyasa has a slightly quicker pace and is focused on matching breath and movement through a playful mix of flowing poses and stretches. Chair Yoga is also available for those with limited mobility. Candlelight Yin is held in a room where the soft glow

of candles creates a peaceful, calming atmosphere that promotes inner stillness and relaxation.

Since yoga is all about mind-body connection, the class schedule includes several meditation options that often incorporate sound bowls to help guide you to a complete state of bliss. Private lessons are also available for those who desire one-on-one instruction. Amanda and her teachers have added unique offerings, like monthly meditative full moon rituals and cold plunges to further enhance your practice. “The cold plunge has a lot of benefits, like lowering cortisol and inflammation,” Amanda explains. “But it’s also a great way to selfregulate. It helps to shut off the constant daily chatter and allows people to listen to their bodies.”

Soul Stretch offers a variety of pricing and packages, including single

drop-in rates, a 10-class pass, monthly unlimited, and more. The new student special is $59 and covers unlimited classes for 21 days, so it’s a great way to try things out and see what best fits your preference. Charbonneau residents get discounted pricing as a show of appreciation for the warm welcome the studio has received from the community. “Every time I see one of my students thriving in their practice and feeling more relaxed than ever, a little piece of my soul heals,” Amanda says. “I fill their cup, and they fill mine, and I’m just so honored to be able to guide people to peace in our noisy, chaotic world.”

Soul Stretch Yoga is located at 31840 SW Charbonneau Drive STE A1 in Wilsonville. Please give them a call at (503) 710-1946 or visit their website at www.soulstretch-yoga.com/

Soul Stretch

Heart of Gold

Nominate Wilsonville’s 2024 First Citizen

By Rotary Club of Wilsonville

Wilsonville’s selfless volunteers are the ones who create moments of magic for others. That’s why the Rotary Club of Wilsonville is now accepting nominations for the 2024 Wilsonville First Citizen award. The deadline is January 31, 2025. Nominations should be submitted online at WilsonvilleRotary.com/nominate.

The award honors a local community member or couple for their exceptional volunteer service to the local community. A committee made up of Rotary members and other Wilsonville community leaders — including past First Citizens — will review the nominations received. They will then select a small group of First Citizen finalists, who will be announced in February.

Out of these finalists, the individual or couple that is selected as the 2024 Wilsonville First Citizen will be announced at the club’s annual Heart of Gold Dinner and Auction, scheduled for next spring, at a date, time and venue that will be announced very soon.

“The act of giving is a magical thing,” Rotary Club of Wilsonville President Mike Bishop said. “It brings people together and helps them pool resources and ideas to create something larger than themselves.”

Since 2002, the local club has presented the First Citizen award to 29 outstanding community volunteers, either individually or as part of a couple. All of these past honorees can be found at WilsonvilleRotary.com/first-citizens. Bishop encouraged Wilsonville residents to nominate someone special who deserves greater recognition for their essential contributions.

one need only look at the quality of people who have been nominated and honored over the last 20-plus years.”

“Our community volunteers provide the energy and leadership that’s necessary, which is something our club always wants to encourage,” Bishop said. “We make it a point to recognize and appreciate those who magically give of themselves, but the community’s input is what makes this award truly meaningful. To understand the value of this award,

Besides honoring Wilsonville’s First Citizen, the Heart of Gold Dinner and Auction serves as the main fundraiser for the Wilsonville Rotary Foundation, a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization. Money is raised through sponsorships, auction purchases, donations, raffle and game tickets, dinner tickets, and other contributions that night.

The Wilsonville Rotary Foundation, in turn, provides funds for all of the numerous service projects conducted or supported by the Rotary Club of Wilsonville, including: Wilsonville Rotary Summer Concerts, Through A Child’s Eyes (TACE), Good Eggs Omelet Breakfasts, Rotary Youth Exchange, Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library, College Scholarships, Support of Scouting BSA, Interact Clubs, and Peacebuilding. The club also supports international service projects conducted throughout the world by the Wilsonville club and other area clubs, and responds to needs as they arise.

To nominate a community member (or couple) who is an exceptional volunteer go to www.wilsonvillerotary. com/nominate. Questions? Send an email to president@ wilsonvillerotary.com.

Brad Hansen accepts the 2023 Wilsonville First Citizen Award at the 2024 Heart of Gold Dinner Auction

The Darkest Days

How the winter solstice brings hope

By Robert Matsumura, Active Media

Every year around December 21st in the Northern Hemisphere, the winter solstice occurs, marking the shortest day and longest night of the year. Through the centuries this annual cosmic event has inspired stories, myths, and celebrations, blending elements of nature, light, and spirituality in traditions shared by numerous cultures across the globe. At the heart of these ancient rituals and festivities is the summer solstice’s association with birth and renewal, a seasonal change in nature that heralds the coming of spring and an end to the darkness of winter.

Ancient Origins: Celebrating the Sun’s Return

Before calendars and clocks were invented, people lived in accordance with the sun’s cycles. In a sun-centric world the solstice served as a pivotal marker in their agricultural, spiritual, and social lives. For many cultures, the winter solstice was viewed with trepidation — a time when the world could fall into chaos, a dark period where the sun was symbolically at its weakest — before returning to glory as the days lengthened. The summer solstice was a reminder of the sun’s return, bringing warmth, growth, and sustenance. Elaborate feasts were often held, sacred rituals performed, and fires lit to encourage the rebirth of the sun.

Northern Europe: Yule and the Norse Pantheon

One of the most famous winter solstice traditions took place in Northern Europe where ancient Germanic and Norse tribes celebrated Yule. A festival that honored the Norse gods, particularly Odin, Yule focuses upon the rebirth of the sun. Evergreens, symbolizing eternal life, were central to Yule, and homes were decorated with boughs of holly, ivy, and mistletoe — plants resistant to winter’s chill. Over time, these traditions blended with Christian customs, resulting in today’s wreaths, garlands, and Christmas trees.

Rome: Saturnalia and the Feast of Misrule

Across the Roman Empire, the solstice celebration known as Saturnalia was a time of joyous revelry. Saturnalia honored Saturn, the god of agriculture and time with festivities that flipped societal norms. During Saturnalia, carnivallike chaos reigned — slaves could become masters for a day, gambling was permitted, and everyone feasted. It was a season of merriment, gift-giving, and the relaxation of social rules. Everyone — rich and poor alike — could partake in the festivities. Saturnalia had a profound influence on later Christmas celebrations, particularly the communal feasting, exchanging of gifts, and sense of goodwill.

The British Isles: Stonehenge and the Celtic Solstice

East Asia: Dongzhi Festival and Harmony in Balance

In East Asia, the Dongzhi Festival signals the arrival of winter and the rebirth of yang energy. Dongzhi, meaning “extreme of winter,” derives from the concept of yin and yang — the cosmic balance of dark and light. While the winter solstice represents the darkest day, it also signifies the gradual rise of yang energy and the light.

In the British Isles, Stonehenge remains one of the most iconic sites associated with the winter solstice. Constructed thousands of years ago, this mysterious stone circle aligns perfectly with the solstice sunrise, drawing crowds of onlookers annually to witness the event. Though Stonehenge’s origin is unknown, it’s clear that its creators were deeply attuned to the celestial rhythms, and utilized the monument to mark important seasonal shifts.

In the Celtic world, the summer solstice was a time when the Oak King triumphed over the Holly King in their eternal battle for earth’s light. The Oak King, symbolizing the waxing sun, would begin to grow stronger with the longer days, heralding the return of spring. Rituals involved bonfires, feasts, and offerings to the gods in gratitude for the return of the light.

In China, Dongzhi is a time for family reunions and feasting on specific culinary favorites such as tangyuan — glutinous rice balls served in sweet syrup, symbolizing family unity. In southern China, dumplings are also popular and are believed to protect against the winter cold. Dongzhi is also a time for reconnecting with ancestors, and the belief is that one’s good fortune and health in the coming year depends on harmony between the living and the deceased.

Indigenous Peoples: Honoring the Dark and the Light

For many Indigenous cultures of North America, summer solstice rituals were held to celebrate the return of the sun. The Pueblo peoples celebrated Soyal with purification rituals and dances meant to awaken the sun from its winter sleep. Central to the ceremony is the creation of kachina dolls — symbolic representations of deities or spirits — that play a crucial role in the life cycle.

Far to the North, the Inuit people of Alaska and Canada honored the summer solstice with a festival called Quviasukvik, a time when families convened to share food and stories, reflect on the past and anticipate the return of the sun. As a people accustomed to harsh Arctic winters, the summer solstice indeed was cause for celebration. Longer days and the return of the sun literally represented survival in the brutal conditions of the North.

South America: Inti Raymi and the Andean Celebration

In the Southern Hemisphere, the summer solstice occurs in June. Among the Incas, Inti Raymi, the festival of the sun was held in honor of Inti, the sun god. The Incas, who revered the sun as their primary deity, performed elaborate ceremonies in honor of Inti to ensure good harvests in the coming year. At the heart of the solstice celebrations was the city of Cusco, where ritual sacrifices, offerings and dances were performed to demonstrate the people’s gratitude and reverence for the sun’s critical role in sustaining life. Modern day celebrations honoring Inti are held to this day.

The Solstice Today: A Time for Reflection and Renewal

While solstice celebrations have evolved over the centuries, themes of light, rebirth, and reflection are timeless. From spiritual gatherings to cozy times around the hearth, the winter solstice invites us to anticipate the return of the sun and all that it brings to the earth. So as the winter solstice rolls around, take a moment to slow down, reflect, and find balance, like our ancestors once did. On the darkest of days, the solstice is a celebration of endurance, hope, and abundance that light makes possible in our lives.

From Scrap to Sculpture

The artistic vision of Jenny Ellsworth

By Kelly Romo, Active Media

Jenny Ellsworth’s journey into the world of metalwork began in an unexpected place: off-roading. While learning to build roll cages and bumpers, Jenny was captivated by the process of bending and shaping metal. The tactile experience of welding — the sound, the smell, and the quick, powerful way it bonds materials — sparked a passion that quickly evolved into her life’s calling.

Initially, Jenny focused on metal fabrication for commercial properties, where she often witnessed significant waste. Seeing usable scrap discarded made her think creatively about giving these materials a second life. Construction projects

She began crafting art pieces from salvaged materials, and what started as a personal project soon gained the attention and admiration of her friends. Encouraged by their enthusiasm, Jenny held a garage sale, where her pieces were met with excitement, marking the beginning of her artistic career.

Jenny’s first public sculpture, a 17-foot cattail named “Salacia,” came about serendipitously. While helping another artist on a project for Clackamas

Community College, an opportunity arose when an artist dropped out and she was asked to create a sculpture. The recognition she received from her peers and the community was surreal.

“Elemental Love”sculpture in process before being powder coated. It will be permanently installed on December 7th at 7th and Center St. in Oregon City

Her sculptures often feature organic shapes inspired by plants and critters, reflecting the natural forms she sees in the metal she collects. Jenny’s approach to selecting materials is intuitive. She allows the shapes of found objects to guide her, envisioning what they can become.

Balancing the technical aspects of welding with artistic expression seems to come naturally to Jenny, who has an innate sense of proportion and balance, often reflected in her work through the “golden ratio,” which naturally occurs in nature. Her sculptures evoke a sense of curiosity, encouraging viewers to appreciate the beauty of transforming something old into something new.

Over the years, Jenny’s work has evolved, particularly after the loss of her brother in 2010. This personal tragedy led her to create larger, stronger, and more emotionally resonant pieces. Her art has become a way to connect with others who have experienced loss, fostering a shared sense of healing.

Jenny’s work is displayed throughout the Pacific Northwest, including notable installations such as Hughes Water Gardens. She is excited about a new permanent sculpture project in Oregon City, which she was awarded through the Oregon City Arts Commission. This significant piece, “Elemental Love,” will be installed near the historic McLoughlin House and City Hall at the intersection of Seventh and Center on December 7th, 2024.

Once Jenny gets more power in her shop, she will expand her artistic reach by offering welding classes to teach others the craft that has brought her so much fulfillment. To learn more about Jenny Ellsworth’s extraordinary work, visit www.fairyforge.com or follow her on Instagram @fairy_forge_.

The Magical Legend of Santa Claus

1600 years in the making

By Robert Matsumura, Active Media

As the holiday season rolls around, Santa Claus assumes center stage. But where exactly did this rotund, jovial old man in a red suit originate, and how did he become the iconic symbol of Christmas that he is today? In truth, the history of Santa Claus is a fascinating tale that intertwines folklore, legends and a sprinkle of entrepreneurial ingenuity.

Santa Claus as we know him today traces his roots back to a number of historical figures, each contributing to the contemporary version we know and love. Perhaps the earliest inspiration for Santa Claus was Saint Nicholas, a Christian bishop of the 4th century, renowned for his acts of kindness and gift-giving. In time, Saint Nicholas became the patron saint of children, sailors, merchants, archers and brewers, among others.

In the British Isles, a character known as Father Christmas emerged during the mid-17th century and was frequently depicted as a bearded man garbed in green, symbolizing the spirit of the season. By the 18th century, however, the concepts of Father Christmas and Saint Nicholas merged, resulting in a hybrid figure that blended elements from both traditions.

The American version of Santa Claus began to take shape in the 18th century. Influenced by Dutch and German settlers, the name “Santa Claus” evolved from the Dutch term “Sinterklaas.”

During this period, “A Visit from St. Nicholas” (commonly known as “The Night Before Christmas”), a poem published in 1823, played a pivotal role in shaping the modern image of Santa. This poem described Santa

as a rotund gift-giver in a red suit who utilized chimneys rather than the front door for his Christmas visits. The poem, attributed to Clement Clarke Moore, established not only Santa’s magical nighttime journey around the world delivering toys to children, but specified his vehicle of choice as a sleigh powered by eight reindeer with specific names and attributes. Also introduced in the poem was the idea of Santa monitoring children on his “naughty and nice” list and filling stockings accordingly.

The classic image of Santa Claus in a red suit with a white beard was tweaked further in the 1930s due to a marketing campaign by Coca-Cola. The company’s advertisements depicted Santa as plump, rosy-cheeked, and garbed in a red and white outfit and hat. Although Santa had been portrayed in robes of other colors prior to this marketing campaign, CocaCola’s version of Santa Claus was embraced by the popular imagination and remains the image we associate with him to this day.

As the holidays roll around, and images of Santa Claus abound, know that, like so many things in life, Santa has evolved from his ancient origins as Saint Nicholas and Father Christmas to the iconic figure of Christmas cheer crafted by an imaginative poet and creative corporate advertising. One thing is for certain, whether you’re a child or an adult, the holidays would not be the same without Santa, his reindeer and the spirit of the season that he represents to so many around the world!

END-OF-SEASON SALE

These are just a small sampling of our current specials!

Tempur-pedic Pro-Adapt Discontinued & Floor Models Up to 50% OFF!

Fireside Lodge “Woodshop” Full Size Futon Was $2299…Now $1599!

American Leather Comfort Sleepers Floor models @ 30% OFF!

Fireside Lodge Queen Beds Was $2099…Now $1499!

Sunny Designs 80”L Hutch & Buffet Was $2499…Now $1599!

Country Classics Rustic Hickory Lift Desk Was $3699…Now $2500!

Borkholder Quartersawn White Oak Master Hutch & Buffet Was $4799…Now $3299!

Biltwell Sofas (2 to choose from) @ 30% OFF!

Trend Manor Solid Cherry Nightstand Was $1299…Now $499!

La-Z-Boy “Mackenzie” Sofa Was $2399…Now $1599!

All Chromcraft Revington Occasional Tables @ 50% OFF!

All Framed Prints@ 30% OFF!

All Lamps @ 25-50% OFF!

Trend Manor Solid Cherry Coffee Table Was $1899…Now $899!

Trend Manor Solid Cherry End Tables Were $1099…Now $499!

Fusion Amish Sofa –Rustic Hickory & Leather! Was $8899…Now $5999!

La-Z-Boy “Norris” Leather Recliner Was $1199…Now $799!

American Leather Power Triple Reclining Sofa – Black Leather Was $8999…Now $6599!