A perfect evening for a visit with Santa in Mount Pulaski

[December 07, 2015]  MOUNT PULASKI - As Christmas music played throughout the town square on this beautiful Saturday evening, families began to gather at the Mount Pulaski Courthouse State Historic Site and eagerly await the arrival of Santa Claus. Promptly at 5 p.m. Chris Martin of Mount Pulaski pulled up in front of the courthouse in the Martin Farms fire truck with Saint Nick himself riding along.

As Santa rushed inside the courthouse he was followed by excited children who all could not wait to get upstairs and visit with the man from the North Pole. In fact the children were so excited many of them bypassed the refreshments initially and quickly climbed the stairs in anticipation of the moment they had waited for all year.

One of the event's organizers, Renee Martin, was very pleased with the successful event. "We had approximately 40 children and they brought their parents and grandparents. I love it when the courtroom is packed. It just makes it more festive," she beamed. "Everyone was very kind and patient, too," she added.

The evening ran very smoothly with Martin and Julie Wubben in charge, as they gave each family participating a number in line. Each child was photographed with Santa and was given the opportunity to chat with Santa. As children waited patiently for their turn, many were coloring or just chatting with friends and family.

It was great to witness such fellowship among the community. Martin agreed, "That's ultimately what we try to provide is an atmosphere where folks can get to know one another, allow a time where they can put their phones down and socialize with people in the community. When they walk thru those courthouse doors we want people to have a great experience."

Martin also noted that her favorite part of the evening is the Christmas music filling the square. "I love that! I'm not sure if anyone else likes it, but I even like people to have that festive feeling while walking up to the courthouse."

The feeling in the air was certainly one of festivities. Since Santa's visit coincided with the Tour of Homes in Mount Pulaski the town was abuzz with activity.

The nice weather and the presence of long-time courthouse volunteer, Wallace Kautz, were just added bonuses on this perfect evening.

Kautz not only greeted the incoming visitors to the courthouse and made sure they enjoyed the cookies and hot cocoa, but he also visited upstairs with Santa and even had his picture taken with Saint Nick. In fact, the dedicated volunteer proclaimed this to be the first time he's ever had his picture taken with Santa. Further proof that this was an enjoyable evening for children of all ages.

Merry Christmas to all and to all a goodnight!

[Teena Lowery]