By JEAN OUZTS

Climax Correspondent

Climax welcomed the Christmas season, as well as celebrated the arrival of Santa, on Dec. 15, Thursday night, in Parker Park on Broad Street. A warm glow from the pretend fireplace, with a rocking chair awaiting the jolly old elf, gave warmth to the chilly night.

City clerk Karen Toole welcomed the large crowd, after which Mayor Charles Hadsock opened the celebration with prayer reminding all why they were celebrating the season.

The Hall family, Jessie and Esther, sang “Santa Claus is Coming to Town,” and Sam Sirmons led group singing of “Away in a Manger” and “Silent Night.”

Cheryl Carvajal sang “The First Noel,” then delighted the audience — both young and those still younger at heart — with the reading of “’Twas the Night Before Christmas.” Several children of Climax were seated on bales of hay in front of the decorated back drop of a lighted fireplace and poinsettias as they listened to Carvajal and waited in excitement for Santa’s arrival.

Santa did not disappoint those waiting, as the big red fire truck brought him into town with lights flashing and sirens going. Around 25 children’s faces lit up with a special glow as they gathered around the jolly elf and then waited their turn to talk to Santa and receive a nice treat. Among those first in turn sitting on Santa’s lap were Carol Patterson, and Ryley Edwards. The youngest to see Santa, at only a few weeks old was little Cole Harrell.

Sirmons provided the sound system and music.

The evening ended with echoes around the park of “Merry Christmas” and “May God Bless You in the New Year”!

Reporter’s note: A very special thank you and Merry Christmas to Ms. Barbara Pugh, for her assistance with this article.