Odd behavior for someone supposedly just there to enjoy the place. He definitely seemed to be fishing for something. TDO handled the situation the best they could. Not sure I would have been as kind.
A lot of people are really turning this into something more dirty than it most likely was. Though it's hard to blame someone for thinking the worst, because sadly, that is what so many horrible incidents in this day & age have taught us. Not knowing this individual personally, I cannot claim what his exact thoughts/intentions were. But the art of being a professional Santa (in most cases) is for the love of the hobby, and although it
is attention-seeking, it is not necessarily for dirty reasons. Kinda like when you see a professional Elvis tribute artist sporting shades, sideburns, and looking the part in public, even though he is not doing a show at the time. It becomes a work of passion, and sure, who wouldn't want a little public attention if that's your skill?
But with Santa's character it becomes a little more complicated, as it deals with a figure who caters mostly to small children. In a more innocent time, no harm done. But in the year 2012 with all the sickos around with perverted intentions, it really is hard to not raise an eyebrow sometimes and question even the most harmless of actions...such as bringing the joy of your trade to a family theme park. Was this man's decision the wisest considering the time & place? Probably not. But common sense aside, and I've said this before, I really doubt he was out to kidnap or fondle 'Lil Johnny Park Patron.
I know a professional "Santa" who really looks the part well. He is the mascot/owner of a holiday-themed arts & crafts shop where it is Christmas year round. Very decent human being, and that is an understatement. He wouldn't harm a fly nonetheless a person. Yet he loves to go out in public sporting his Xmas sweater, sometimes Santa boots, and he loves the attention/joy it brings from children he encounters. His wife even hams it up by wearing a Mrs. Claus bonnet on her head many times in public. It's all good fun. There are even organizations of professional Santa's that host conventions, parades, and other events, at all times of the year; Christmas or non. Many are retired indivduals who do the work for extra spending $$$, but mostly just for fun of being the character and bringing a bit of magic to people.
Check this site out:
http://santaclausoath.webs.com/santaclausgroups.htm
What this man in the OP's story needs to realize is we live in different times now. There are too many sick people out there with sinister intentions that he should completely understand if a theme park asks him to look less the part. Not saying I know 100% his intentions were innocent and just for fun, but would bet they were. This was more of a common sense issue, and I hope it was that alone.
