SANTA BAN
Kindergarteners in Vienna, Austria won’t be getting a visit from Ol’ St. Nick this holiday season… at least not at school. Local officials are banning Santa from city kindergartens and the reason why may surprise you. City leaders say it’s not because of religious reasons; rather the reason the chubby elf won’t be making an appearance is because city officials say he sends the wrong message to children, who are told not to accept gifts from stranger.
So as to not appear as total scrooges, government leaders are allowing schools to hold Christmas parties–as long Santa is nowhere in sight. City officials quizzed by local reporters about the Santa ban added that the nix on Santa was also prompted by concern the rotund, bearded fellow will frighten youngsters. Opposition leaders, on the other hand, contend the Santa ban is an example of political correctness gone too far.
PANCAKE PROBLEMS
Customers at an International House Of Pancakes restaurant near Boston caused quite a stir recently when they were asked to turn over their driver’s licenses before being seated. According to news reports, the restaurant implemented the new policy after several customers left without paying the bill. The new policy left a bitter taste in some customers’ mouths and they were not afraid to let restaurant employees know.
One customer who has been a victim of identity theft in the past told a local news reporter:
“(I said,) ‘You want my license? I’m going for pancakes, I’m not buying the Hope diamond,’ and they refused to seat us. The security guard had at least 40 licenses in his hand. Identity theft is rampant. I wouldn’t want to give my license, with my address or Social Security number to anyone that I’m not familiar with that … I’m going just for breakfast.”
That customer was not alone. According to reporters, dozens of diners also voiced strong opposition to the new policy. Consequently, the company reversed the policy within hours of the story going national.