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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.
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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] |
