Dear Mr. Wentz, It is with great pleasure that I offer Jeffrey B. McMullen’s name as a Candidate for election into the International S anta Claus Hall of Fame, Class of 2023. I met Jeff while attending a Performing Arts school in which he was a featured presenter, while I was looking for new ideas to grow my Santa. As soon as he started his presentation on “Developing YOUR unique inner character” I knew he was the real deal. No fluff, just solid time-tested theories that not only worked for him but allowed me to discover the unique character development skills which clowns/physical comedians have. This has provided me great insight into my Santa character development. Jeff has become my mentor, friend and brother. He patiently listens and helps me through my struggles and encourages me when I faulter. His tutelage has allowed my Santa to blossom. Jeff offers the same friendship to anyone in our Christmas Performer community. He began preparing for his role as Santa as a very small child performing as a clown/magician, learning the skills of understanding audience needs, what makes them laugh, what makes them cry and how to create an environment which promotes mutual respect between himself and the audience. Jeff learned how to develop characters who are compassionate, caring, kind and able to imprint memories which last a lifetime. After performing with the Ringling Brothers Barnum Bailey Circus, Jeff began a solo career which found him performing over 6,000 shows around the world including The US White House, Dubai, Poland, Japan and many others. Jeff has a passion for mastering any type of performance he decides to tackle. He is/has been a: corporate platform inspirational speaker, Ronald McDonald, stand-up comedian, a clown/comedy magician. Throughout his career Jeff would dabble with “playing” Santa, until his peers (Leon McBryde and Bob Elkin) encouraged him to not just “play” Santa but develop his own unique brand of the Santa character.

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From their encouragement, Santa Mac was born from his love of people, his personality and professionalism, and his wonderful ability to listen and make people laugh or cry…but, most of all, to make people feel special and loved when in his presence. Jeffrey B. McMullen (Santa Mac) is the epitome of what it means to be Santa Claus. Jeff developed his “inner” Santa Mac persona first. Then, he wrapped Santa in a carefully thought out and meaningful wardrobe. This process created a phenomenal character-building formula which Jeff now shares with the world through the creation of Kringle University. Below please find the background required to elect Jeffrey B. McMullen (Santa Mac) to the International Santa Claus Hall of Fame.

Sincerely, Loren K. Jensen The Santa Shed L.L.C. Creator; Teddy Bear Santa

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INDEX: Overall Performance Career – Page 4 Education – Page 5 Instructor – Page 5 Awards – Page 6 Publications – Page 6 Movies – Page 7 Charity - Service to Community – Page 7 Range of Appearances – Page 8 Contributions to the Santa World – Page 9 Length of Service – Page 10 Uniqueness and Originality of Career – Page 11 Letters of Recommendation from: Paul Schrode - Community Leader – Page 18 Jacqueline D. Frank, CEO - National Railroad Museum – Page 19 Ron Severini, CEO - The Severini Company – Page 20 Steve Bordeleau, National VP, Amusematte – Page 21 Randy Christensen, Past President of World Clown Association – Page 22 Lisa Kauffman - VIP Holiday Photo’s – Page 23 Lauren Crosswaite, CEO - Sparkles and Company – Page 24 Michael Lane, President (retired) PAM Services, Springfield, IL – Page 25 Loren K. Jensen, CEO – The Santa Shed Project – Page 26

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Overall Performance Career • Started performing at age 4 or 5 producing backyard shows and continued performing Community and College theater productions • Graduated from Ringling Brothers Clown College and Toured with Ringling Brothers Barnum & Bailey Circus. Jeff was also one of five American performers to set up Ringling Brothers Barnum & Bailey Clown College in Tokyo, Japan • Portrayed the Character of Santa Claus serving regional, national and international accounts • Featured instructor at numerous regional, national, and international Santa Conferences • Portrayed the character of Ronald McDonald (5 years) • Motivational/inspirational speaker (Earned CSP designation) & Stand-up comedian • One year Headline Act at Reoma World, Kenoji Japan (Japan’s second largest amusement park and Director of Western Entertainment. Jeff was also the Producer of the family “Smile Show” in Dubai. One of Jeff’s favorite achievements includes teaching Missionaries in Poland performance arts skills. • Over 6,000 solo shows around the world Headlining at malls, national chains stores, museums, libraries, The White House, homes, parades, etc. • Founder, Visionary and Chief Instructor of Kringle University and CEO, Operator of Santa’s Magical Christmas Cottage. 4

Education: High School: Graduated in 1978, Xavier High School, Appleton, WI Ringling Brothers Barnum & Bailey Circus Clown College, 1979 – Venice Florida Performing member (clown) with Ringling Brothers & Barnum and Bailey Circus (1980) Associate of Arts Degree in Communication, University of Wisconsin Fox Valley Bachelor of Science Degree in Radio, Television, Film, University of Wisconsin, Oshkosh and Arizona State Master’s Degree: Theater/ Speech, University of Wisconsin Oshkosh

Instructor: Ringling Brothers Clown College Japan, Tokyo, Japan, 1989 Speech Professor, University of Wisconsin Oshkosh, 1990 to present Headliner and Instructor: Numerous World Clown and COAI Conventions spanning 30 years, Clown Camp, Advanced Studies with Leon McBryde, Clown Camp California Corporate Entertainer Spokesperson: Ronald McDonald for Arizona and southern California. 1983-1987 Touring: One man family-based comedy magic show with over 6,000 performances including performances ranging from 3rd world orphanages to Royal Palaces, across three Continents.

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Awards: Boy Scouts of America: Eagle Award, Order of Arrow Award University of Wisconsin Oshkosh Outstanding Young Alumni Award (First and only theater student in the history of the University to receive this award) Lifetime Achievement Award from the Wisconsin Fire Chief Association for continual service in teaching fire prevention to youth for the Wisconsin Fire Public Educators. Certified Speaking Professional designation from the National Speakers Association. Less than 500 professional speaker have earned this designation worldwide. 5th Degree Black Belt in American Freestyle Karate as well as a Black Sash in Shaolin Kung Fu

Publications: “Tender Moments from the Big Chair” – A collection of experiences with children and families from the Big Chair “Just In Time Just Isn’t Enough” - A goal and life success planning book “Chicken Soup for the Soul for Business” - Contributing author “Business FUN-Damentals” - A business and characterbuilding learning system for family-based performers

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Movies: “It’s not such a scary place after all”. A movie that introduces children to the hospital and what to expect from surgery PAX TV Network Chicken Soup for the Soul, Episode “Billy” was based on Jeffs experience as shared in the Chicken Soup for the Soul at Work book

Charity - Service to the Community: Food pantry: Jeff and his wife Debbie have been adopting 1-3 families at a time since 2001 and making sure the families have nutritional food. Community Outreach: Teaches karate as an outreach in Elementary schools: Jeff and his wife Debbie have taught free of charge to the Appleton and Kimberly, WI school districts, teaching children and adults the value of self-defense and bully awareness for 22 years. They also own and operate a family-based karate school, which focuses on building mentally and physically strong youth. Octoberfest committee: Jeff has served on the Octoberfest Board of Directors for over 30 years. Appleton’s Octoberfest is Wisconsin’s largest one day festival drawing over 200,000 guests. Jeff is also the chairperson for the Family Fun Area. Octoberfest has award over 2.5 million dollars to local not-for-profit organizations since 1981. Parade Duties: Jeff has served as Appleton’s Christmas parade Santa for the past numerous years. Video Messages: Jeff produces and performs in annual Christmas Video messages from Santa for Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin. 7

Range of Santa Appearances: National Railroad Museum, Official Santa for the Polar Express Experience Mall Big Chair: Milwaukee, Louisville, Pasadena, Hollywood, Las Vegas, Cabela’s/Bass Pro Shops Home Visits Nursing Homes Hospitals Parades Church Sunday Schools Day Cares Corporate Events Private Photo Shoots Volunteer Events

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Contribution to the Santa World: • CEO and chief visionary for Kringle University • Presenter at: ISC Branson & Denver • Presenter for Nationwide Santa Conference in Las Vegas • Presenter at 2023 Family Reunion, Gatlinburg TN. • Headline presenter at Palm Tree Santas with Santa Bob Elkin • Headliner Texas Round Up • Presenter for Nationwide Santas - Las Vegas Seminar • Presenter for Santa Bob McMasters - Oklahoma Seminar • Headline presenter for the Hoosier State Santas Seminar • Numerous virtual guest interviews with Mitch Allan and Bob McMaster on their weekly internet program • Guest Zoom interviews with Martin D'Souza Mumbai, India • Headline presenter for Super Santa Sunday, Williamsburg, Virginia • Online mentoring - daily motivation, business and magic posts • Creator and presenter of numerous Super Santa Online Training sessions • Social media encourager for Santas during Covid with daily YouTube and • Advisory board member to the Visit with Santa Company • Social media posts • Active daily social media presence and coaching

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Length of Professional Service: Jeff’s performance career started when he was just 4 or 5 years old. He produced backyard circuses with the simple goal of making the neighborhood families laugh and smile. Throughout his middle and high school years he continued to hone his magic, juggling, stilt walking, balloons, plate spinning and other circus skills. From time to time, while in High School, local businesses would ask Jeff to put on a red suit and “play” Santa Claus. This was his first introduction to portraying the character and would be the foundation for his Santa work he would return to later in life. Upon graduation from High school, Jeff was accepted into Ringling Brothers & Barnum and Bailey Circus Clown College. Out of thousands of applicants, Jeff was one of 63 students accepted into the Clown College’s Class of 1979. After graduation from Clown College, he was offered a contract to be a touring member with “The Greatest Show on Earth”. After touring with the show, Jeff returned to his hometown of Appleton, Wisconsin to start his solo 44-year performance career which included 5 years with McDonald’s Restaurants as Ronald McDonald in Arizona and southern California…5 years as a standup comedian…20 years as a motivational platform speaker…and, of course, his over 6,000 personal appearances around the world with his family-based comedy magic show titled “The Magic of Laughter”. From time to time, Jeff would put on the red suit for local events, but, still “playing” the role of Santa. What do all of these venues have in common, you may ask? Well, they are all focused on allowing children and families to smile, laugh and celebrate potential. This vast background of experiences became the foundation of his creation of “Santa Mac”. Jeff was encouraged to pursue his new persona by his good friend, Leon McBryde, and other well-established Santas. About 2011, Jeff started his mission of learning about Santa to bring happiness to children and 10

families. He would no longer “play” the character, but rather “become” the character of Santa. Now, today, some 44 years after he started performing, Jeff has shared his portrayal of Santa at some of the country’s largest malls, festivals, community tree lightings, corporate events, and home visits. Making certain that each appearance is packed with kindness, passion, and professionalism. Jeff’s latest project is the creation of “Santa’s Magical Cottage” a free-standing cottage where families can spend 15, 30, or 45 minute visits with him, where “wonder-filled moments” are shared and lifelong memories created.

(This is a copy from one of Jeff’s social media posts to the Christmas Performers. I feel this truly reflects the value and compassion of Jeff’s Santa Mac Character and speaks directly to the Uniqueness and Originality of Jeff’s career)

Uniqueness and Originality I have been asked numerous times over the years how I developed the character of “Santa Mac” and his originality in a world where everyone sort of looks the same. There has never been a short answer to this question…and this is not one of them either. It seems so many years ago when I started to develop my Santa persona and yet it seems like just this morning and for good reason. Growing your character is a continuum…it never ends. When you stop developing your character you become stale, predictable, and robotic.

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To keep your character and exciting to you and your audience you must stay connected to the “why” part of your character’s inner most thoughts. So many performers focus on the “how to do” (the outward physical actions and skills) rather than the “why”. I continually ask “why” for it is the “why” that develops and stimulates the “how”. When developing a character, I believe it is never OK to accept “well, he/she moves like this, I don’t know why, he/she just does”. That is not a mindset that stimulates and activates the development of a character. You have to look into your heart and ask why do I do this? Why is this important to me, to my art, to the children and adults I have the privilege to perform for? This is not an easy question to answer. There are a number of reasons your character exists on a personal and professional level. It could be for the satisfaction you receive by causing someone to smile or laugh. It could be as a personal goal to achieve a certain skill set. It could be to keep your own imagination stirring. The list is endless. It is important to discover for yourself the “why value” and allow it to be the motivation to grow your character…from the inside out. It is vital to have a strong well-defined armature first, then drape the wardrobe over it…not vice-versa. I can take a red suit and put it on anyone…young or old, male or female and the general public, at first glance, will identify that person as Santa. There is no doubt about that. The suit identifies someone as Santa, but it does not expose the heart and soul of what Santa is all about. What identifies someone is their actions, both verbal and nonverbal. It is this introspective interaction which people remember. So how does one go about developing the inside core values. It starts with personal commitment to excellence. When I started to develop my Santa, I remember two critical lesson I learned from elite circus performers… these two lessons changed the way I performed as a physical comedian and understood clearly, they were just as important to developing any character, particularly a Santa persona.

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Lesson One: Self-Discipline and Be the Best You Can Be! I'd like to share with you a little story about Lou Jacobs, a colleague and former mentor of mine. Lou was a leader ... arguably among the greatest clowns of all time. Lou Jacobs performed an act that required him, at six feet three inches tall, to emerge from a tiny car not much bigger than one your young son or daughter might pilot in your driveway. Before Lou became a clown, he was a contortionist. In deciding to become a clown, Lou did a very reasoned, practical skill analysis, he determined which of his skills would transfer to his new career. However, then he did something very unique. He sat back, closed his eyes and asked himself, why and how his character would move. How would it respond to a crying child, a struggling adult, a bumble bee on a flower or watch a balloon float away into the sky… and then committed himself to the to the training ... the practice ... the discipline ... required to be one of the best clowns in the world. HE DID THIS EVERYDAY which allowed his character continual growth. Note, I said the best he could be. Not better than someone else! Big difference!!! Lou worked to improve every day of his clown career--and that was over 60 years. That's right. Over sixty years of folding his aging, tall body to perform his act the way expected one of the world's great clowns to do. One day towards the end of Lou's career, he called over the boss clown, Frosty Little, and mentioned the normal aches and pains of getting old were getting to him. He asked Frosty to cut off the top of the little show car and weld in some extensions to give him a little extra room. Frosty asked Lou if five or six inches would be enough ... and Lou was horrified. He limited the extensions to one quarter of an inch. Stack up five dimes-- that's a quarter inch. Frosty was reluctant to do so much work for a 1/4" extension--you could easily add five or six inches for the same amount of work. No one would ever know. The audience surely would never be able to tell that car was bigger. 13

But Lou was adamant. His job, his act, depended on remaining true to his vision...his commitment to himself. Lou only needed a quarter inch. Four or five inches ... even though no one else would ever know--Lou would. And his demanding self-image would not allow it. So, he limited the extensions to ¼” and went on to do that act for 4 more years. To have this sort of self-discipline is very difficult. It is this nonvisible skill and discipline that separates center-ring performers from the rest. When I decided to create “Santa Mac” I did just as Lou did….I sat back closed my eyes and visualized in my mind how Santa Mac would breath, move and think. It is important to understand, we have to first see it in our mind before we can ask our body to present the movement and verbiage to our audience. I spent endless hours simply visualizing Santa Mac in different scenarios. How would he respond to tough questions like: “Santa can you bring my grandpa back…I miss him so much”. “Are you the real Santa?” “Santa, can you make my mommy and daddy stop fighting?” And not only the verbiage but also the body posture and eye contact, for it is how we answer these questions which define our characters character. This is an exercise I do religiously every day, which allows for continual growth.

Lesson Two: Commitment to the smallest detail! During my visualization time I not only explore how my character would think and move, but also what he would wear in different situations. I always refer to my Santa clothes as wardrobe, not as a costume. A costume implies you are pretending to be. You can never reach your potential pretending! I understand unequivocally that it is semantical, but it makes a huge difference in how you perceive your character. I ask questions like: What style of jacket would he wear? How long is it? Are there pockets? What color is it? Is there fur on it? How does it close…buttons or zippers? What color is the thread? The more definition you can see the clearer the vision becomes. It is all about the smallest detail.

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This lesson was taught to me by a very unique center ring act. And that, my friends, puts the spotlight on one of the crucial elements of developing your character. Consistency! That's right. Consistency! The learned ability to perform to the same level every time you perform. It is by being consistent that you are able to fully be in the moment while creating memories. In the circus, one of the best examples of consistency I know of is the Chinese bicycle act. Bear with me here. You see, the act starts with a number of performers doing antics and tricks on bicycles. Slowly, one by one, the performers leave the ring until there is just one rider left. Now, that performer's only duty is to ride that bike in circles around the ring. And yet would you believe that the simple act of pedaling that bike around the ring ... and around the ring... and around the ring ... is the foundation for one of the most dangerous stunts in the circus? It's called the human pyramid. To build the pyramid, every time the peddler passes a certain point in the ring, another person climbs aboard. Keep in mind that every person in this pyramid is being steered, controlled and moved forward by the one person at the bottom. Performer after performer climbs aboard and finds the right spot - Each attunes his or her balance to the single, person pedaling the bike around the ring… around the ring ... and around the ring ... and around the ring. And when the smallest person in the act quickly climbs over the heads and the arms and the legs of the fellow performers, weighing carefully each breeze, each subtle shift in muscles and bones of the people below...When that person gets to the top to say "TA DA!"... I can tell you from direct experience, that person is acutely aware that the applause is due to the consistency of that one person at the bottom, pedaling a bike ... around the ring ... and around the ring ... and around the ring! 15

That person is using personal discipline, judgment and a completely reliable exercise of skill to give all a chance to shine in the center ring. What do you think would happen if that peddler were to change from 53 revolutions per minute to 70 without telling his coworkers? Think anybody would notice? What would happen if that peddler just decided to take a day off--would it make a difference? Ladies and gentlemen, as consistent, dependable performer, you help control the direction, momentum, and balance of your character. Obtaining "center ring" results depends on the quality of your performance each and every time you step into the spotlight. You do that with your imagination--creating a picture of yourself achieving what it is you want to achieve. And you do it with hard work. You plan. You practice. You learn. You build. You Grow! I wanted to ensure, as I developed my character, I would be consistent and pay attention to the smallest of details, for it is the small details which make you unique. When you combine commitment and consistency you create a foundation for your character’s mental and physical being. When I was comfortable with the vision of who and why I wanted Santa Mac to be, it was time to allow the physical manifestation to happen. Again, I spent endless hours researching wardrobe ideas. I surfed the internet, spoke to industry vendors and leaders. I made a file of ideas and did a lot of sketches. Once comfortable in the wardrobe (in great detail), I then proceeded to have it all constructed. As my character grew from year to year, so did my wardrobe, keep in mind, our wardrobe must reflect which is on the inside or it’s a costume. I do daily character exercises to keep Santa Mac current. Simple things such as cleaning the house as Santa would. Climb a ladder as Santa would. Cook as Santa would. Eat a cookie as Santa would. The more I do, the clearer the character becomes… as I stated in the beginning of this process…Character development is a continuum. 16

By conducting daily mental and physical practice and prayer, your character can develop self-confidence, love, respect, hope, compassion, empathy, and subtly be ever-present within you. Thus, enabling you to always be Santa to those who need him.

For additional information, please visit Jeff’s websites at: www.KringleU.com – Santa and Mrs. Claus Training www.VisitSantaFoxCities.com - Santa Mac’s Magical Christmas Cottage www.ChristmasWithSantaMac.com - Santa Site www.ComedyMagicofJeffMcMullen – Family Entertainer www.JeffMcMullen.com – Motivational Speaking and Consulting Or on FaceBook at: Jeff McMullen

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Letters of recommendations: Recommendation for Jeff “Santa Mac” McMullen to The International Santa Claus Hall of Fame RE: Jeff McMullen

It is indeed with great pleasure that I write in support of Jeff McMullen and his nomination to The International Santa Claus Hall of Fame. I have known Jeff for nearly forty years and have had the pleasure of working with him in a variety of contexts. He embodies the spirit of Christmas all year round and brightens the room with his warmth, joy and thoughtful contributions in every setting in which I have observed him. He is a tireless and generous community volunteer, lending his talent and business acumen to every undertaking. He would be a wonderful addition to the roles of the Santa Hall of Fame and I would encourage your most serious consideration of his nomination. Among his most significant contributions to our community has been his leadership and dedication to Appleton's annual Octoberfest celebration. Attracting in excess of 200,000 people each year, the celebration features entertainment, arts & crafts, and food booths hosted by nearly 100 local non-profit organizations. Jeff has been an essential member of our planning committee for decades, coordinating our Family Fun area designed to serve families with younger children. His experience working with children has proven invaluable as he assembles activities, attractions and performers to delight those youth attending Octoberfest each year. Certainly his patience, sense of humor and ability to relate to children of all ages have served him well and we are among the beneficiaries. Utilizing his background as a professional entertainer, he takes his turn on the stage each year and has the entire audience laughing. Among his professional roles, Jeff has served as a business consultant and lends those skills to our planning committee, helping us to narrow in on matters of importance and remain focused on our mission. As chair of the festival, I have certainly come to rely upon his advice, perspective, and many contributions. Jeff's contributions to the community are not limited to Octoberfest. For many years, he assisted with my Kiwanis Club's annual Holiday Party for children from Big Brothers Big Sisters, the Boys and Girls Club, and Harbor House, a shelter for abused women and their children. He took his turn as Santa at times, and other times performed and assisted as one of Santa's helpers distributing donated toys to the children. He and his wife own a Karate America franchise and have often brought their students to offer free demonstrations to the community. His dedication and selfless work throughout the community are felt broadly. Jeff embodies the spirit, qualities of character and joy of Santa Claus and the Christmas season throughout the year. His stature, rosey cheeks, broad smile, and characteristic white hair and beard cause children to take a second look as they smile in wonder, and if the twinkle in his eye doesn't give him away, his generosity of spirit most certainly does. I am proud to call him my friend and commend him to you for induction into The International Santa Claus Hall of Fame. He would be a most appropriate representative of all that the Hall of Fame seeks to achieve and recognize. If I may be of further help, please do not hesitate to reach out. Sincerely, Paul E Shrode, Chair - Appleton's Octoberfest and License to Cruise Festival [email protected] / 920-809-2872 18

Recommendation for Jeff “Santa Mac” McMullen to The International Santa Claus Hall of Fame

Dear Santa Claus Hall of Fame Selection Committee, Jeff McMullen has been an important part of the National Railroad Museum’s educational and entertainment programs for more than 15 years. During this time, Mr. McMullen has connected with audiences on stage, roaming the Museum grounds, on the train, and as the Museum’s official/featured Santa Claus during our popular Polar Express Train Ride event. We offer 52 shows over 13 days. He quickly changes pace with the audience and reacts spontaneously with skill, humor, kindness and humility. Bringing his extensive experience entertaining families from across the globe, Mr. McMullen has honed his innate abilities to understand people’s needs and relate to them, creating meaningful experiences for individuals of different personalities and abilities. During the Polar Express event, Mr. McMullen moves between two train cars, speaking to families in one before moving to the second car to sit and leisurely take photos with children. While he has less time to interact on the first car, each pause that Mr. McMullen takes on the car allows him to deeply engage with the children. The Museum often receives comments stating that they “felt as if Santa was visiting just for them” or that their children “believe he is the real Santa”. One of my favorite things to observe has been the moments where he has connected with those with a special story: the Make-a-Wish child, the one with a birthday, the adult with a special need. His kindness emanates from him as he matches his energy to theirs, listens intently, and reacts compassionately. Santa Claus is not a vehicle for Mr. McMullen to be the star of the show or to feed an ego; instead, it is an act of service and humility to bring others joy, magic, and the heart of the season. While he has created outstanding wardrobe to represent Santa Claus, ease with which to work, punctuality, and demonstrated excellent stage presence, it is Jeff McMullen’s skill, compassion and loyalty to the community leads me to recommend him for the Santa Claus Hall of Fame. Sincerely, Jacqueline D. Frank, CEO National Railroad Museum 2285 South Broadway Green Bay, WI 54304 Phone: (920) 437-7623 Email: [email protected] 19

Recommendation for Jeff “Santa Mac” McMullen to The International Santa Claus Hall of Fame

This is a note of HIGHEST PRAISE and HIGHEST RECOMMENDATION for Mr. JEFF McMULLEN. As the former Director of Ringling Bros and Barnum & Bailey CLOWN COLLEGE, (where JEFF was a student of mine 40+ years ago), and as the Talent Casting Director for the Walt Disney Company, (where I cast and booked ALL of the official Santa Claus’ each holiday season for ALL of the Disney Resorts), I proudly attest to the Class, Honesty, Integrity, Talent, Trust-worthiness and Professionalism of JEFF McMULLEN. Jeff was an amazingly talented professional Circus Clown in the Ringling organization. I also hired Jeff to be included as a Faculty member at first-ever Ringling Bros and Barnum & Bailey CLOWN COLLEGE in Japan. Jeff has a God-given talent as a Teacher/Instructor. If it IS possible for Kris Kringle to actually fly through the air on a sleigh pulled by eight, tiny reindeer, balancing bags and bags filled with toys for children around the world, I’m certain that JEFF can also make that happen as well. Jeff McMullen has the heart of a clown and the soul of Kris Kringle. Mr. Jeff McMullen IS the twenty-first century Santa Claus! … and anyone that wants to be the best Santa Claus they can be, should seek his teachings at Kringle University.

Sincerely, Ron Severini CEO/The SEVERINI Company P.O. Box 3187 Windermere, FL 34786 [email protected]

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Recommendation for Jeff “Santa Mac” McMullen to The International Santa Claus Hall of Fame

First, let me state it is my honor to recommend Jeff McMullen for entry into The International Santa Claus Hall of Fame. I have had the pleasure of knowing Santa Mac for years. Jeff has proven not only to be exemplary as a Santa and performer, but as a mentor, freely giving his knowledge to other’s desiring to be the best. I am sure this is difficult as well as the ultimate honor for such a humble man. He brings not only professionalism to whatever assignment he has been given, but has that proverbial “Twinkle in his eye” In addition to working for Amusematte over the years, Jeff has been gracious to provide recommendations for other Santa’s that he has helped train, mentor and bring to table the type of character we desire. He has been an amazing asset both as the character in our portfolio and as a friend. In 23 years of providing concierge level service and photography in the event photography industry, Jeff McMullen has been as good as any I have had the pleasure of working with. He will represent the HOF, if chosen, with Dignity, Respect and Humility. He understands and takes very seriously the meaning of the Man Behind the Suit.

Best Regards, Steve Bordeleau-National VP Amusematte

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Recommendation for Jeff “Santa Mac” McMullen to The International Santa Claus Hall of Fame

In the 1980’s I met Jeff at the Midwest Clown Association round-up. There was a “buzz” about this young RBBB clown coming to teach. …and after his class, there was an even greater buzz. I found this response to be true through the years – pertaining to Jeff – at the Advanced Studies on the Performance Art of Clown hosted by Leon McBryde, at the Next Step Workshop hosted by myself…basically everywhere he goes…including last summer at the International Fellowship of Christian Magician’s Convention there’s always a “buzz” because of his presentation and honestly, just because of who he is! In fact he received two standing ovations for his message on professionalism in the performing arts. Jeff’s authentic, personable, compassionate, caring-persona coupled with his excellence in character, preparation and presentation makes him a world-class communicator; whether that’s on stage in Japan or Dubai or the floor of Madison Square Garden with Ringling Brothers Barnum and Bailey Circus, or sitting in “the big chair” conversing with four-year-olds! That was the motivator for me to join his online “Kringle University” sessions this past year. He shared well-thought-out concepts and routines, while providing personal input, instruction and feedback which urged me to be the best Santa performer I can be. I, having served as the World Clown Association President, have experienced performances and instructors in entertainment around the world. I don’t know of one more respected and appreciated than Jeff “Santa Mac.” Without reserve, I recommend his consideration for the honor of being inducted into the Santa Claus Hall of Fame. Thank you! Randy Christensen Past President of World Clown Association Children's Specialist / Edutainer www.qualityprograms.net 22

Recommendation for Jeff “Santa Mac” McMullen to The International Santa Claus Hall of Fame

I was first introduced to Jeff when he was starting out in the “Santa” business as a mall Santa. He was to play Santa at a very dominant Mall in Milwaukee that I over saw. He had questions about the position and explained in detail his background and how he came to consider this role. Jeff would always take direction and never try to take over the set. He would play his role – Santa. Always honing his skills. This attention to details lets him excel at his craft and makes him one of my favorite Santa’s to work with. He continues to learn new things and techniques to make the families that come to see him a unique and memorable experience. He enjoys teaching and passing along his skills to others in the trade. Even though we no longer work together, Jeff is constantly sending recruits our way to help them and us. His actions reflect that he is always Santa in and out of the chair. Lisa Kauffman VIP Holiday Photo’s Houston, Texas Production Manager (Formerly with Worldwide/Cherry Hill) Phone: 281-712-2878 Email: [email protected]

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Recommendation for Jeff “Santa Mac” McMullen to The International Santa Claus Hall of Fame

Jeff McMullen (Santa Mac) is a consummate performer! I have had the pleasure of working with Jeff since 1992. Magician, Clown, Santa, he fills all his roles with joy, laughter and an exceptional level of talent and care. Jeff is also a master teacher and motivator. He shares his knowledge in a way that you know he cares about you and your learning. I know he regularly monitors social media sites and offers assistance and advice to Santas, often for endless hours at a time, simply to help the Santa community. Regardless of whether a program is for a “full fee” or a volunteer event, Jeff gives his all to his projects. I remember him telling me one time that the amount of money or length of an event time does not set the level of professionalism you deliver. Each event…moment to moment…deserves your very best. As an agent in the highly competitive market of southern California for the past 30 years, I have booked thousands of performers and Santa’s, and Jeff is at the top of the most requested...and for good reason – he is caring, professional, easy to work with and, of course, incredibly talented. He truly listens to the client’s needs and delivers. I have received high praise from clients when he has worked for my company. Jeff’s willingness to share and grow other performers has helped my agency thrive tremendously. Jeff is a true blessing to the entertainment world. I cannot think of anyone more deserving of this honor than Jeff “Santa Mac” McMullen Lauren Crosswaite CEO, Sparkles and Company Temecula, CA Talent Agent Phone: 951-541-4598 Email: Sparklestheclown.net

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Recommendation for Jeff “Santa Mac” McMullen to The International Santa Claus Hall of Fame

Over my 47 year career in association management I have had the opportunity to hire many high level presenters on a wide variety of industry specific topics, as well as motivational speakers. Regardless of the industry, hands down Jeff McMullen delivered an inspiring winning presentation that rocked the event. He is a consummate professional on and off the stage. The combination of his willingness to tailor a message and professional acumen from booking to performance never disappointed the audiences I put him in front of or myself. Now that I have retired, I look upon the many times I hired Jeff as a crowning achievement in event planning. Although he did not present as Santa (which he does often) for my conferences, he certainly shared from the platform the love, compassion, and tenderness of Santa. He not only spoke with those emotions, he lives them every day. I can with no reservations share that Jeff is a one in a million performer who is certainly deserving of the honor of being in the Santa Hall of Fame. Michael Lane Founder and President (retired) Professional Association Management Services Inc. Springfield IL Email: [email protected]

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Recommendation for Jeff “Santa Mac” McMullen to The International Santa Claus Hall of Fame

It is my honor and privilege to nominate Jeffery McMullen (Santa Mac) to The International Santa Claus Hall of Fame. Santa Mac is a wonderful, courageous and humble portrayer of the Jolly Old Elf in every venue he performs in. He is a vibrant and consistently solid performer for children of all ages. As a Santa, Jeff embodies the ethics and virtues which all Santas should endeavor to be known for. The friendship and love in Jeff’s performances is the memory children can save and recall for a life time. A child never leaves a Santa Mac performance without feeling loved whether it is a mall, home visit, Cottage visit, North Pole Express, a street visit or a stage performance. One of the first things I noticed about Santa Mac was his extraordinary ability to listen, a quality more Santas should aspire to. Jeff absorbs so much by listening intently making you feel like the most important person in the room. And, when Jeff speaks it is well worth listening to as I have learned. He never misses the opportunity to spin a story based on virtue. Santa Jeff has recently started the next stage of his God driven Santa career. He is developing a unique character-building environment called Kringle University. It is meant to enhance the entire person, not just the Christmas character in you. This is a fascinatingly unique approach to personal improvement and development of the Christmas Community. This is a wonderful and timely addition to our Christmas Community. Through a desire to provide children with a consummate experience when they visit Santa. So, Jeff has created “Santa’s Magical Cottage”. Children come to Santa, by appointment only, and can stand in his boots or put on his coat or look out the window, together with Santa, to see if Santa’s reindeer might be passing by or the Northern Lights might be dancing. The “Cottage” was created during a time when Jeff was dealing with some physical challenges. He used the Lessons iterated before and he paid attention to the details and was consistent with his vision and produced a product which was successful in the first year of operation. And, he is willing to share his success with you. Jeff is kind of individual who will share his knowledge and his heart with anyone who asks. You only have to ask. This is a quality which all Santas and other Christmas performers should aspire to. It is my hope that you will consider this Nomination of Jeff McMullen for membership in the International Santa Claus Hall of Fame. Loren K. Jensen, CEO - The Santa Shed Project C: (248) 939-0936 Email: [email protected] 26