Big Red Arrives On A Big Red In Kennedy
KENNEDY — Smiles and laughter filled the Kennedy Fire Department hall as Santa came to visit all his friends in Kennedy.
Arriving by fire truck with lights and siren, Santa was greeted at the door by his many fans of all ages. Several generations were present to see him preside over the Christmas party hosted by the Town of Poland Recreation Committee and Kennedy Pride.
Mr. Claus listened to the fondest wishes of his admirers. Everyone who wanted got to visit with Santa, and received a present from him, too. Pictures wee taken by the recreation committee, so the memory of that special moment could be treasured for years to come.
While Santa talked with his many friends, Calvert Baker had his miniature horses, Easter Lilly and Impression, present so visitors could pet them. He also led them in doing several stunts. These two ladies are a hit every year, and many wish lists get a miniature horse added to them. Mr. Baker also talked to guests about how to care for animals, as well as some of the history of their interactions with people.
Another favorite each year are the hayrides offered by Tom Ormond. Several trips are made around the downtown area to see all the holiday decorations.
While enjoying all the fun activities, people had the chance to choose from a wide variety of cookies, as well as chili and hot chocolate. They could sit at a table and watch all the fun, or they could be active participants. The cool weather of the season always makes the hot cocoa and chili a favorite warm-up.
As the event wound down for another year, Town of Poland Recreation Committee Chair Ann Bloomquist read the names of those being honored and remembered by ornaments, which were then placed on the tree. Funds raised from the ornament sale are being put toward playground equipment for Hallquist Park. It is always a moving moment to hear the names read aloud.
Ms. Bloomquist then noted that the Kennedy Free Library and the Recreation Committee would be hosting a Christmas caroling party for 8 to 18-year-olds on Saturday, Dec. 17, beginning at 1 p.m. at the library. For a couple of hours, area youth will tour around the hamlet area and sing carols for the neighborhoods. When finished, they will return to the library for pizza and other refreshments. Anyone wishing to donate cookies for the party may contact librarian Maggie Ruth.
Both the Town of Poland Recreation Committee and Kennedy Pride would like to thank all those who volunteered their time and efforts to help with the annual Christmas party. The reward of brightening the holiday season, as well as carrying on a community tradition, is one of the joys of life.
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