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Santa pops in on his fansDec 18, 2012 (Superior Telegram - McClatchy-Tribune Information Services via COMTEX) -- Santa touched down at Four Corners Elementary School on Monday to visit some of his youngest fans. After passing out candy canes and books to children in Becky Gallagher's 4-year-old kindergarten class, he chatted with them about pets, sledding, reindeer and even corn. "Some kids leave corn for the reindeer," the man in the red suit told the students. "Rudolph eats more corn than any of them." None of the children had corn at home but they decided carrots, which everyone had, would do just as well. Santa told them sugar cookies and milk were his favorite Christmas Eve treats, and asked what they liked to do in winter. Nearly every child had a snowman story to share, along with Christmas wishes. A lot of the children said they'd like a pet -- a puppy, a hamster or a cat. Some said they would like ice skates. One girl asked for a "sparkly golden dress." People think Santa's just watching to see if you're naughty or nice during the holidays, but according to Santa himself, it's important to be kind all year long. And, he said, Christmas isn't just about presents. "It's supposed to be a fun time," he told the children. It certainly is for Santa. After reading a book, posing for pictures and chatting, the man in the red suit left the classroom with a twinkle in his eye. "I've got to ask you a question," he said. "Who has more fun, the kids or me " The spirit of giving keeps Santa, known as Santa Bob to some, busy over the holidays. "It has been my pleasure to watch him bring smiles to people of all ages for the last 8 years," said Jodi Rochon with the Superior Business Improvement District. He takes part in Superior's tree lighting, visits area nursing homes and drops by businesses with Rochon, spreading holiday cheer. He received one of his best compliments from a 104-year-old lady. "She told me I hadn't changed in 100 years," Santa said. But days like Monday are the best for Santa Bob, who is also known as Bob Van Ert of Summit. "What I like most is putting smiles on children's faces," he said. More from around the web ___ (c)2012 the Superior Telegram (Superior, Wis.) Visit the Superior Telegram (Superior, Wis.) at www.superiortelegram.com Distributed by MCT Information Services |