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Santa jogs to celebration at 25-foot pine in River Heights
By Nancy Heiner
RIVER HEIGHTS -- It wasn't Temple Square, but people gathered around a lone twinkling tree in River Heights Park to feel Christmas last week. The 60 or so participants stood Monday night around a 25-foot pine tree and sang carols until the tree was lighted all the way to the top. "I'll bet if we start singing Here Comes Santa Claus," said arts committee chairwoman Carolyn Bentley, "after that, we'll see Santa Claus." They did see Santa Claus -- he jogged through the snow toward them with bells jangling. Then he led them to the gazebo, where the adults sang some more and the children told Santa what they wished for. "I've got to tell you something," said third-grader Megan Beutler. "I don't believe in those Santas like at the mall and stuff." But she sat on Santa's lap and asked for all three Harry Potter books in case the real Santa was listening. "It's scary," said David Rowley, 8, of sitting on Santa's lap. The children received bags of candy to reward their bravery. Mayor Ralph Degn said the gathering has been a River Heights tradition for more than 10 years. City Council member Mary Yancey enjoyed the hot chocolate and the
company. "This is my first time," she said. "What a fun thing for the
community." |
Archived Months:
September
1998 |
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