Heads and tales: Oh ho ho

Even Santas get the bruise: Being Santa Claus year-round has its drawbacks. Ty Johns of Talladega plays the part well, even when a girl questioning his authenticity tugs on his beard and punches him in the stomach. And you thought Father Christmas was all about the milk and cookies.
• He’s Santa, all year long! [(Talladega) Daily Home]

Merry War on Christmas: The War on Christmas may seem like the hysteric evangelical flavor of the month — but in Alabama, the battle began nearly a century ago. More than a few governors sent out official cards with the diabolical sentiment, “Seasons Greetings.” One even sent one with a Confederate battle flag. War on Christmas? Try War on Carpetbaggers!
• ‘Happy Holidays’ not new to 2005 [Decatur Daily]

A very Katrina Christmas: Many hurricane refugees (remember when that was a taboo word?) aren’t looking forward to the holidays. The Dawsons fled the Mississippi coast and are still at a Birmingham campground. They’re unemployed and facing a $561 utility bill.
• Holiday Cheer in Short Supply for Refugees [Hartford (Conn.) Courant]

Lawsuit? what lawsuit?: We interrupt this holiday-themed Heads and tales for a case of media monkeyshines. Former Healthsouth guru Richard Scrushy has sued the Birmingham News and radio dork Paul Finebaum for millions, claiming defamation (cough) of character (cough cough). What’s interesting is that many media outlets are reporting this item, except the Birmingham News. Even though the newspaper has been sued many times in similar matters, it has dutifully reported each one, even if it’s buried below the fold on an inside section front. What gives?
• Scrushy sues Paul Finebaum, Birmingham newspaper [Mobile Register]

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