Unlike the "real" Santa who comes only once a year, Zanta (as he likes to be called) can be seen all year round just about anywhere in the Greater Toronto Area.
It's possible you've seen this self-proclaimed Toronto icon, wearing little more than a pair of shorts and his distinctive Santa hat, performing countless push ups for passing cars or pedestrians (he doesn't seem to care which) while onlookers gawk with a mix of uncomfortable curiosity and cautious disdain.
On a recent radio talk show, opinions seemed evenly split on whether Zanta was an amusing street performer or a public nuisance. Stories ranged from his benign public appearances at local events to his more hazardous street athletics, sometimes in the middle of traffic or on busy subway platforms.
His history is apparently somewhat tragic. After an on-the-job fall of seven metres at a construction site, he was unable to work but quickly began strengthening his body. The hat followed later as an attempt to make his daughter happy at a family court hearing. When he was denied custody, he vowed to keep the hat on until that situation changed. But despite opinions of those close to him, Zanta says he is mentally balanced and not bipolar.
Some claim that Zanta brings smiles to their faces while others say that he can make children cry with his antics.
I have seen Zanta on several occasions and I must admit that with his imposing physical presence and random, aggressive demeanor, he could be perceived as a threat. But whatever he believes his mental state to be, his behaviour is not normal nor is it likely to aid in the restoration of custody of his child.
It is quite clear, however, that as sad as his personal story might be, he might one day inadvertently harm himself or others by his actions. So why isn't someone stepping in to lend a hand, or at the very least, lend an ear. If his notoriety can gain him anything, perhaps it could be the help he needs, whatever form that might take...
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