Originally published in The Vidette-Messenger of Porter County on November 27, 1965.
Ushers In Christmas Season
By ROLLIE BERNHART
Santa Claus ushered in the Christmas season in Valparaiso Friday by arriving in a manner which will never be forgotten by the kiddies witnessing the event.
Wide-eyed youngsters watched as the jolly old gentleman from the North Pole waved to them high above the street from the bucket of the city fire department’s snorkel.
As Old St. Nick was being let down to street level in front of Santa’s Headquarters on the north lawn of the courthouse, one excited youngster was overheard to say, “Oh, look Mommy, Santa is waving to me from that elevator on the fire truck.”
Skies Overcast
Overcast skies, heavy west winds and a slight mist could not dampen the spirits of the host of kids lining the curb along Lincolnway where the snorkel, escorted by city police, was set up for a brief welcoming program by city officials and civic leaders.
While Mayor Don Will was issuing the city’s official welcome to Santa, and warning kiddies to observe added safety precautions during the heavy traffic of the Christmas season, a starry-eyed youngster nudged another and said, “Did you hear him? Hold onto my hand. I promised mother I’d get you home safe.”
Santa, too, had words of warning to the kids. Then he cheered them up with his famous “Ho, Ho, Ho” while distributing candy candes supplied by Robert Dillon, Valparaiso Chamber of Commerce Merchants Bureau chairman.
Jaycees On Hand
Welcoming Santa Claus on behalf of Valparaiso Jaycees were Dan Harrington and James Meyer.
There were some varied and interesting reactions and comments from kiddies attending the arrival of Santa Claus.
One told his companions, “He’s fatter than he was last time I saw him.” another said to her father, “It’s him. I can remember his nose.” And still another, “It’s Santa Claus alright, but where’s his sleigh and reindeer and all the presents?”
Will Return
Well, kiddies, Santa Claus will be back in Valparaiso at his official headquarters on the north lawn of the courthouse starting Dec. 10.
There he will observe regular daily hours, chat with his young visitors and distribute some goodies.
Ask him your questions at that time. He’s sure to have the answers.
FROM NORTH POLEーSanta Claus ushered in Christmas season in Valparaiso at 2 p.m. Friday by riding fire department’s snorkel bucket around courthouse square. Top photo, jolly old gent from North Pole waves to crowds lining street in front of Santa’s headquarters on north side of courthouse. Bottom, Santa was welcomed to city by Mayor Don Will; Dan Harrington, Jaycee chairman of event; Robert Dillon, C of C Merchants Bureau chairman, and Jaycee James Meyer.
KIDDIES REACT ー Santa’s novel arrival via snorkel-bucket in Valparaiso Friday and first look at genial Old St. Nick by some youngsters brought variety of reactions. Top, group of children gape in surprise and wonderment at initial sight of Santa waving from perch in snorkel bucket. Bottom, little tot held in arms of young sister is awed in presence of Santa Claus as he handed her candy cane.
