Green Giant Files Lawsuit

NEW YORK -- Holiday analysts predict a major disruption in early holiday activities this year based on a lawsuit filed in the New York supreme court. The jolly Green Giant, known for his amazing height and uncanny ability to sell vegetables, filed a trademark infringement suit against Santa Claus for his continued use of the phrase, "ho, ho, ho."

"If anyone watches my commercials, they will understand that the phrase is an important piece of my sales identity," The giant said in a statement. "Claus has done irreparable harm to commercial ability by assuming my claim to the phrase."

Attorneys for Claus declined immediate comment. Giant's attorneys said any settlement is at least several months away. Christmas professionals said store Santas and other positions built into the holiday economy could be put on hold for the duration of the case. This is traditionally the time where earlybirds begin their Christmas shopping.

Giant's statement indicated that his conscience is clear in bringing the case before the court. "This year's holiday season will fall because of Santa's choice of language", he wrote. Attorneys for Giant warned Santa Claus to cease use of the phrase several times before complaints were filed.

"He could have picked 'tee, hee, hee' or 'hardy, har, har,'" Giant said. "I may be big and green, but I'm no vegetable. It's time to let the jury decide."