Rotary Club of Lenoir hosts Children's Christmas Party
Dec. 9—LENOIR — A local rotary club is spreading love and joy to Caldwell County elementary school children this holiday season.
The Rotary Club of Lenoir hosted a Children's Christmas Party at First United Methodist Church Life Center (309 Church St. NW) on Friday, Dec. 9 at 12 p.m. to give toys to elementary school students in the county. Rotary Club of Lenoir members purchased and wrapped each gift.
Former club president Steve Strange began the ceremony by leading the audience in the blessing, "God is Good." Next, the group faced the flag and recited the Pledge of Allegiance.
Strange then asked the children to sing the Christmas song, "Here Comes Santa Claus."
"It's a magical song!" said Strange. "Sometimes, when you on sing this song, someone special appears!"
As the second verse of the song rang out in the room, Santa and Mrs. Claus stepped through the doors with gasps and cheers from the children.
Rotary Club of Lenoir President Stephen Starnes was dressed in full Santa suit and beard to greet the excited children and distribute their presents. Jackie Heim as Mrs. Claus assisted Santa and gave a hug and a kiss on the cheek to every child.
One by one, each child stepped up on stage and received a wrapped present from Santa and a smaller gift bag from Mrs. Claus.
After the last child grabbed their gift and wished the crowd a Merry Christmas, Santa and Mrs. Claus said their goodbyes.
"Hopefully, they come back next year!" Strange told the children.
At the end of the ceremony, the audience joined in singing, "We Wish You a Merry Christmas" as Santa and Mrs. Claus took their leave.
