"Back in those days, extra weight was a sign of wealth and affluence, " Kliner said.
CNN: Should Santa Claus still be fat?
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Kliner said he sees Santa as more of a public figure than a role model.
CNN: Should Santa Claus still be fat?
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Santa's weight is a longstanding tradition, said Tom Kliner, founder of Santas Across the Globe and the Fraternity of International Real Bearded Santas.