Annual Breakfast with Santa brings in many families to the VFW

 

[December 12, 2022] 

Saturday morning the Cronin Brothers VFW was abuzz with families enjoying a morning of good food and visits with Santa Claus. The annual breakfast with Santa is hosted by the VFW, VFW Auxiliary, and the local marine Corps League.







Inside the Freedom Hall, new arrivals were greeted by members of the VFW and the VFW auxiliary. Children were offered coloring books and crayons to keep them busy as they awaited their turn on Santa’s lap. Of course, more most, breakfast was the first stop and members of the Marine Corps League served up pancakes made fresh by VFW Auxiliary members, batter-coated sausage on a stick, and of course, a sweet chocolatey beverage.

While the food and Santa may have been the top billing for the day, the show was very nearly stolen by a very special guest.



Maverick is a black lab and is in the care of League member Gene Hickey. He arrived at the VFW dressed in his Marine uniform, complete with brass buttons and a trim white belt. In observance of the holiday, he wore a necklace of Christmas tree lights that blinked and glowed as he strode into the Freedom Hall.

Hickey explained that Maverick is a very special animal. He is a trained therapy dog. While he is considered the League mascot, he also has a job to do. Maverick often pays visits to veterans in nursing homes in the area. Hickey said the dog is very personable and can get a smile, even a laugh out of almost anyone.

Indeed, the kids on hand, and even some adults were completely taken in by the big black dog in his dress blue. Maverick made the rounds, visiting with kids and adults, and even paid a visit to Santa and Mrs. Claus.

Santa Claus was set up next to the VFW Christmas tree. This year, he made his appearance with some company. Mrs. Claus was on hand to assist Santa with greeting children, striking up conversations, handing out treat bags, and even took her turn at having the little ones sitting on her lap, especially the really little ones.



Children of all ages were at the VFW Saturday morning. The youngest one to arrive, never made it to Santa’s lap. At just one-week old, Mrs. Claus took over the holding and cuddling, with Santa taking charge of the baby girl’s siblings.

Throughout the morning, kids and even some adults enjoyed the opportunity to chat with Santa. The kids were quizzed by Santa with questions such as have you really been good, do you do what you’re told, do you eat all your vegetables, and do you brush your teeth and go to bed when told. Every child answered emphatically that they have been on the very best of behavior this year in hopes that Santa would deliver just what they asked for on Christmas Eve.

The annual breakfast lasted until about 11 a.m. Saturday morning, and more than 50 children came to see Santa during that time.

Oh, and here is a fun fact to end the day. Some have wondered, does Santa have children? The answer is yes, he and Mrs. Claus do have kids, and why wouldn’t they, when they are known for their love of Children.

At the end of the day, the last person to sit on Santa’s lap was his oldest son. When asked if he expected to some day wear the big read suit himself, he said indeed he does. Father Santa laughed and said he would have to grow a beard and a big belly before he can apply for the job.

[Nila Smith]