Santa makes his rounds at Greencastle
GREENCASTLE -- The last Saturday before Christmas brings with it a few traditions; last minute shopping, an overabundance of green and red and sightings of the famed jolly old elf all around town.
The elf made an appearance at the Lunch with Santa Claus event at the Greencastle National Guard Armory. In a packed house, kids were winding around the inside of the building for a chance to talk with the man in red.
Brandon and Nathan Barger were two of the kids who presented their wish lists to Santa Claus.
"They pretty much want everything that's on TV," Belinda Barger said.
Brandon Barger said he wanted a four-wheeler and a toy combine. He wasn't sure which one he'd be more likely to get.
"I don't know, but I'll say the combine," he said.
His brother Nathan Barger was more focused, asking for both a dirt bike and a dirt bike book.
Lunch with Santa Claus had more for attendees than just a chance to talk with the big red man. Volunteers from the South Putnam High School student council were on hand to paint faces.
Logan Peters had a snowman painted on his cheek by Jessica York, one of the South Putnam volunteers. Peters said that he wanted a Stinky the Garbage Truck for Christmas, while his younger brother Anthony Peters said that he wanted a Thomas the Tank Engine and Buzz.
Another standout was the half-elf/half-pirate with a hook hand. He stood well over six feet tall, handing out free Long John Silver lunches.
There were also gifts for sale that could be wrapped for free. The Greencastle Fire Department distributed fire safety booklets, and pizza, cookies and beverages were available for the children.
Barbara Hill, one of the event organizers, said that she was pleased with the turnout.
"I was surprised we had this many with the economy the way it is," Hill said. "Or maybe that's why we had so many."
A Greencastle Police officer later estimated the crowd at around 350.
Hill said that about half of the attendees were giving to Johnson Nichols Health Clinic as they entered.
Crystal Hamilton's son Ashton, wearing a small Santa suit, also had some face painting done.
Hamilton said that her family had a rough time of late, making the Lunch with Santa more meaningful for her.
"This is really nice," she said.