More than eighty people, from wee ones to grandparents hopped aboard the Wilmot Express for a fun filled afternoon on December 11. The progressive event began at the Wilmot Community Association’s (WCA) Red Barn, moved on to the Wilmot Firehouse and ended at the Wilmot Public Library.
As with most successful programs, the Wilmot Express drew on the creativity and hard work of many. First and foremost, a huge thank you to Santa for taking time away from his busy schedule to spend the afternoon in Wilmot. Photographer John Swindell from Kearsarge Studios did a beautiful job photographing kids and families with Santa. His elves, Jordon Zuger and Carla Hoyt, kept the line moving and children smiling.
Photographs can be picked up on December 23 between 9 a.m. and 2 p.m. at the WCA Red Barn. Thanks to John, the first copy is free! Contact John for additional copies or more information or link to the 2016 Wilmot Santa portfolio to see your photos.
Al Peterson entertained families while they waited their turn with Santa with a holiday singalong. He was ably assisted by two more elves, Nancy Schlosser and Judy Hauk who sang along and encouraged the crowd. Amber Gove, dressed up as a Christmas tree, kept everyone singing and smiling. Additional volunteers at the WCA Red Barn included Adam Glass, Darlene Hoyt, Nancy Large and Rachel Seamans. A big thank you to all.
There were cookies, cocoa, and carols for all at the Wilmot Firehouse. Many thanks to those who donated cookies, they were delicious and enjoyed by many. Additional thanks must be given to all of WVFD members who helped make this event possible. Special thanks go out to Kelsie Clarke who created the Wilmot Express advertisement. Everyone’s bellies were warm and full of cookies before heading out into the cold and by the brightly lit tree on their way to the Library. Thank you to Chief Zuger for his police escort to the Library!
The final stop was at the Wilmot Public Library. Santa’s elf Snowflake joined the fun to help with storytime. Thank you Deb Ransom, alias Snowflake! Together, Santa and Snowflake shared Clement C. Moore’s timeless holiday classic, “The Night Before Christmas.” After the reading, each child was given a book. A big thanks goes out to the many library volunteers who wrapped books and decorated the library.
Happy holidays to all,
Susan Nye, WCA administrator
Kyla Pillsbury, WVFD 1st Lieutenant/Captain of EMS
Rosanna Long, Wilmot Public Library director
