Weblog Entry - 01/22/2007: "2006 Kid's Christmas Party"

01/22/2007 Entry: "2006 Kid's Christmas Party"

Posted by Jeff Hackl

The annual kid's Christmas Party had a wonderful turn-out. There were about 30 kids signed up and about 100 people there to share in the excitement and festivities. We started out with the much anticipated two rounds of Christmas Bingo. They were led by our teen helpers; Ashley Bongers, Hilary Wentworth and friend, Tyler and Josh Cisler. The first bingo winner was Julieanne Taylor. Then there was the M&M guess where the winner also gets to take home that BIG jar of M&Ms!! The happy guesser was Kellie Nuckles.

At about 11:50 Mrs. Claus came to read stories to the kids while they anxiously awaited the arrival of Santa Clause. Then Christmas carols were sung as he came in with his bags full of toys. The first child to get a present from Santa was Josiah Mepsted. With a smile and a sigh of relief, he went up to sit on the big guy's lap and in a flurry of ripping paper the handing out of presents began. One by one they listened quietly for the names, hoping that theirs would be the next one called. When it was all said and done every child had gotten just what they had wanted and all the adults had gotten what they had wanted...to carry on the magic of Christmas in their hearts and in the hearts of the little ones in the room that day.

Throughout the afternoon the children were able to make a Christmas frame and decorate it for their picture with Santa and Mrs. Claus. The pictures should be on the table in the break room shortly for you to take. Some were taken by George Dowling and some by Bryce Thomas. Also, face painting was provided this year by our teen helpers. They did a great job.

The Poinsettias were won by Barb Glaser, George Dowling, Lori Sullivan, Julie Leisner, Shirley Schuessler, A1 Taylor, Bryce Thomas, Deb Gudowicz Robin Van Schyndel and Arlyn Wilinski. The Union provided the food and punch for the afternoon with many donations of goodies from some of the parents of the children. Thank you to those of you who brought food items. They were all very good and very much appreciated.

Thank you to Sharon Duesher, Norb Van Pay and Cindy Peterson. You literally ARE the people who make this happen for the kids every year. Thank you all again for another great Christmas Party and Vickie and I both wish you a Happy and safe New Year!!!!

Vickie Bongers & Gail Nohr