FRANK FULLER
The volunteer: Mr. Fuller is a living example of the Christmas spirit.
He has given his time to portray the great giver of gifts -- Santa Claus -- both as he used to be and as he is now.
Mr. Fuller acts out the jolly man in a red outfit, but every chance he gets he dons the white robe and miter of Bishop Nicholas, the fourth-century cleric who was canonized for his acts of love and kindness. St. Nicholas, it is said, gave gifts of gold to needy people.
Mr. Fuller, a retired businessman, lives in Arnold with his wife Linda, a speech pathologist and sometimes Mrs. Santa Claus, and 10-year-old daughter, Carly, who plays the part of one of Santa's helpers.
He also has two grown daughters.
Volunteer's comments: "I started last year, after a friend died who had done it. He and I were close friends.
"He died right before Christmas, and I did a couple of his appointments. I had so much fun doing it, I thought 'Gee, I'm going to do it forever.' I've never had so much fun in my whole life. It's like a hobby. I wouldn't want to get paid for this.
"I show what the spirit of Christmas is all about as I do a metamorphosis, from the bishop to the Santa Claus of today. I actually have one costume under the other.
"Just about every religion has some sort of holiday like Christmas to help children understand the spirit of giving.
"Abusing the concept of giving is just as bad as not doing it at all. I . . . try to indicate it's more than just commercialism.
"My daughter [Carly] is part of my inspiration. My little elf is a
very serious performer. She works hard."
Information: To arrange for Mr. Fuller to perform as the original St. Nicholas or Santa for a group or organization, call him at
757-5449.
"Volunteer Spotlight" is compiled by Kevin Harrison.
To recommend someone, call the Anne Arundel Bureau, 315-8911, any time or fax information to 315-8916 or mail it to: The Sun for Anne Arundel, 8131 Ritchie Highway, Pasadena, 21122.