‘Santa Claus’ Visits Local Children
By Jonathan Weaver
‘Santa Claus’ took a break from getting ready for Christmas Eve by visiting some extra-nice kids in Ford City last night.
And instead of a sleigh, he hitched a ride with Ford City volunteer firefighters.
‘Santa Claus’ visited more than 40 children yesterday evening, presenting them all with a personalized gift.
Santa’s arrival came during a holiday fundraiser for the fire department, Firefighter Ray Klukan said. Families paid $20 for the 15-minute Christmas visit.
“Last year, we didn’t do it and a lot of people were disappointed – so we came back this year,” Ray said.
“(We got an) overwhelming response this year for this – I couldn’t believe how many people wanted ‘Santa Claus’ to come this year.”
So many responses that there will be two ‘Santa Claus’ in town tonight.
Under the white beard, ‘Santa Claus’ actually turned out to be Fire Engineer Keith Beckett, of Ford Cliff.
Beckett – who joined the fire department about a year-and-a-half ago - hasn’t donned the red suit since it was for his daughter Emily’s preschool class 10 years ago.
Being ‘Santa’ for so many kids last night reminded him of those reactions when his children were younger.
“Some like me, and some run as fast as they can away from me,” Beckett said. “It’s fun. I like to see the reactions of the kids – that’s the best part.”
Firefighter Tyson Klukan played one of ‘Santa’s’ elves
“It’s priceless to see the kids’ smiles during the holidays,” Tyson said.
Department members and their families will get to sit with ‘Santa’ this weekend.
Local News | jweaver December 17, 2015
By Just sayin, December 17, 2015 @ 10:22 AM
Hope no kids read this article…
“Christmas is ruined, so get out and stay out!”
from Mickey Mouse’s Twice Upon a Christmas
By Just sayin, December 19, 2015 @ 9:38 PM
I still get excited (a little) when I see Santa. He always makes me smile, even though I know…
Does any other woman feel this way?
I used to cry when I heard, “I Saw Mommy Kissing Santa Claus,” because I thought “Mommy” was having an affair!
By zepp, December 22, 2015 @ 7:15 AM
Thank you to the fcfd for making my grandsons christmas special. A very nice program to offer our town. Thanks again!