December 23, 2020 Issue, Page 22 of 26

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PG12 HOMETOWN TIDINGS a big smile. be kissed. When all the berries had gone, there could be no more kissing. MISTLETOE = tt Mistletoe is hung in doorways, and cou- CHRISTMAS BELLS ples who stand beneath are encouraged Church bells ring for many special ser- Tine Origins Gf Soma to share a kiss. The tradition of hanging it in the house goes back to the times of the vices, including Christmas mass. During Christmas midnight mass in the Catholic Delovedsholidayatraditions. ancient Druids. Mistletoe was thought to bring good luck to a household and ward Church, the altar bells may be rung while the priest says the “Gloria.” Bells are part off evil spirits. The custom of kissing un- of caroling, and jingling bells are associ- \Wikeany abil it alll (agg? der mistletoe can be traced to England. ated with sleighs and Santa’s reindeer. Originally, a berry was picked from the Christmas is rife with traditions that sprig of mistletoe before the person could date back ages. hristmastime is here. The put tangerines in Christmas stockings. presents are being purchased 5 and wrapped. The stockings CHRISTMAS TREE a Happy Holid VS will soon be hung on the Christmas Trees are everywhere this fireplace mantle. Mistletoe is pinned time of year. The use of evergreen trees above the front entryway, and poinset- predates Christmas and is associated tias add rich color to home decor. with the pagan festival of Saturnalia, ‘ Tradition is integral come the holi- which celebrated the agricultural god day season. Throughout the month of Saturn with partying and gift-giving. Structual Steel « Welding Supplies + Specialty Gases « Trailer Parts « Fabrication December, traditions fill people’s days During the winter solstice, green and comprise the many reasons why branches served as a reminder that Check out our new showroom! individuals decorate, celebrate and spring would arrive anew. Germans are Major brands for sheep, dine the way they do this time of year. credited with first bringing evergreens goats, pigs and cattle But few may know the origins of some into their homes and decorating them. of the most beloved holiday traditions. SANTA CLAUS CHRISTMAS STOCKINGS Santa Claus’ origin story can be The Christmas stockings of today traced to St. Nicholas, a Christian bish- may be a byproduct of various tradi- op who lived during the fourth cen- tions. One such tradition dates back tury. St. Nicholas was very generous to a Dutch custom in which children and gave away his fortune to help the needy. He also did various other good Thank you so much for your business would leave shoes full of food to feed St. Nicholas’ donkeys, and then St. Nicholas would leave small gifts in re- deeds. St. Nicholas became infamous and began to be known by various this year. Merry Christmas and names around the world. The Dutch turn. Another origin story of Christmas called him Sinter Klaas, which was eventually transformed to Santa Claus. a happy New Year! stockings can be traced to the 12th The jolly persona came later when 20th century, when nuns would leave socks century advertisers — especially the full of nuts, fruit and tangerines for artists responsible for Coca-Cola ads the poor. This is why some people still — portrayed Santa in a red suit with Merry Christmas and Happy New Year from The Elk City News team! We would like to thank each one of you for your support and America’s A J look forward to bringing you more local news in 2021! Drive-In. dl yy “ElkCituNews SF 109 W. Broadway * 580-225-3000 at Christmas!