Letter to the Editor: Magical Trips to the North Pole

The Oswegoland Park District made 49 magical trips to the North Pole.  We were delighted to introduce over 1700 children of all ages to the real Santa, his reindeer, Dancer, and Mrs. Claus.  It was a wonderful weekend for those of us who get to host the event.  I am so thankful for the park district’s operations department for creating a North Pole for us, and for all the elves:  Katie, Anne Marie, Colin, Sue, Lindsay, Cori, Carolyn, Carly, Joe, Erica, Julie, Megan, Julia, Greg, Paul, Kyle, Mitch, Danny, Renee, Trevor, Ed, Michelle, Laura, Beth, and Cody.  It turns out it takes a lot of work to drum up Holiday Magic.  Thank you for giving so much heart over a busy weekend.

My thanks to our Silver Bell Partner, the Oswego Community Bank.  Their support allowed us to up our game with elements like the Elf Trail this year.  We are also appreciative to The Village Grind for coming out and making sure everyone at the North Pole has a hot cup of their delicious coffee or cocoa. 

We spent the weekend hearing what the kids are hoping to receive from Santa.  We heard Delaney wants a pink furby, Jack wants a toy train, Julia hopes for a unicorn, and Mackenzie wants a raining ice cream storm.  I have no idea what Mackenzie is really asking for, but it sounds like a special event the park district should host next. 

It is my greatest hope that each of the children who visited the North Pole gets the happy Christmas morning of their dreams.   I wish that for their parents too, and for all of us.  May all of our families have peace and good will in the coming year. 

Sincerely,

Kristie Blocker Vest

Special Events Supervisor, Oswegoland Park District