Santa Claus! Magic clings to that bigger than life name. Belief in Santa is renewed from our childhood, through our children and then our grandchildren. The commercialism and cynicism of today&8217;s society cannot hurt our Santa Claus.

Santa was a wonderful addition to Christmas and his gift giving to others embodies part of the spirit of Christmas. I think baby Jesus and the gift bearing Magi would approve.

Our jolly old red-suited elf was a recent addition to Christmas. In the 19th century St. Nicholas was not always the good guy. If you misbehaved a lump of coal might show up in your stocking. A black suit Santa.

In keeping with tradition or at least my column tradition, it is time to give presents to sports and political celebrities. Also, in respecting the 19th century there will be a few lumps of coal scattered among the stockings.

2007 Christmas presents

Presidential candidate Barack O&8217;Bama

&8212; Reality grounding

Presidential candidate Hillary Clinton &8212;

Idealism

Gopher football coach Tim Brewster &8212; Next year

Gopher basketball coach Tubby Smith &8212; NCAA basketball tournament.

Viking football coach Brad Childress &8212; Acceptance

Viking quarterback Tarvaris Jackson &8212; Fran Tarkington&8217;s old locker

Viking star running back Adrian Peterson &8212; A long career

Twins general manager Bill Smith &8212; Good luck

Twins manager Ron Gardenhire &8212; Three good hitters

Twins star lefty Johann Santana &8212; A World Series ring

Twins pitcher Francisco Liriano &8212; A good left arm

Twins catcher Joe Mauer &8212; An injury free 2008

Twins outfielder Michael Cuddyer &8212; A winning World Series ring

Twins newcomer Delmon Young &8212; His potential realized

Twins slugger Justin Morneau &8212; A 2006 repeat

Twins reliever Joe Nathan &8212; A 2008 Twins&8217; uniform

Boston Celtics star Kevin Garnett &8212; A championship

Timberwolves Al Jefferson &8212;Garnett&8217;s legacy

Chicago Cubs &8212; Boston Red Sox jinx buster

Boston Red Sox DH David Ortiz &8212; The one that got away award

Minnesotans &8212; The right amount of snow

U.S. Troops &8212;Love and home

To All &8212; Peace and good will

Jon Laging writes his regional sports column from his home in Preston.