Santa Makeover

The present version of Santa hasn't been around all that long now, and he's really more of a commercial department store invention than a true icon. Santa seems to be less popular now than in years gone by - appearing in fewer commercials and TV shows etc. Let's face it he's becoming a dud, and is in sore need of a makeover!

First off, a new opening line would be in order since "HO HO HO" might be taken the wrong way in some circles. In these days of health awareness the extra weight should go - no more cookies and milk after a chimney run, and he needs a good exercise program. Perhaps he should start with a spa package in Alaska, then get the elves to build an exercise room next to the Reindeer stables? A spa visit that includes a beard trim, pedicure, manicure and hair coloring would be in order for a younger, more hip look. His suit is looking pretty gaudy too, and there are some eager and ready New York fashion designers hoping to craft Santa a new, updated costume. Heck, they could even add an invisibility cloak, so awakened little tots don't spot him in the house. Throw in a new hat, belt, and boots, and he'll be ready to fly. After the makeover, there'd be new corporate sponsorships on the horizon. If so, he'd need to get hooked up with a new P.R. firm, and be prepared to put a few logos on the new suit.

After all of this, he'll look pretty snazzy when he drops that lump of coal into Donald Trump's stocking.

Get your Speed out!

We just returned from Vegas. It was actually a relaxing vacation this time. Unlike prior past trips, I actually slept well. The key is to pace yourself. No all night gambling sessions, and not over doing the dining and drinking. We saw the Cirque du Soleil Beatles show "Love" at the Mirage and it's spectacular. The Strip always seemed to be packed with tourists, but it's easy to find alternate walking routes through the shops and casinos. The most exciting activity for me on this trip was a visit to Exotics Racing School at the Las Vegas Speedway where I drove five laps in a Ferrari 430 Scuderia accompanied by a professional driver who guides you through the track. This is a top notch facility that's run by courteous and safety conscious staff ensuring a fantastic experience. You can run the cars past 100 mph on the straightways, and the cornering is a blast. This is something I plan on doing again, as there are few opportunities for such an experience in my neck of the woods - short of buying a Ferrari myself. My wife and I had cooled to the idea of returning to Vegas again, but the City still has some pleasant surprises, with many more hotel and casino venues built since our last trip in 2003. My wife says the shopping in Vegas has improved a lot too, and the Visa statement will back her up on that one! Not too many Elvis sightings anymore, and you have to dig around to find a good Rat Pack show, but Vegas still shines for entertainment.
Tags Ferrari, Driving, Vegas, Cirque du Soleil