Santa’s helpers appear once more in Washington Township

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By Dale Huffman, Staff Writer Updated 3:30 PM Saturday, November 13, 2010

Even though it was a very busy time for Santa, the last few days, he managed to sit down and write a quick page in his diary on some of his experiences in 2009.

Actually one of Santa’s closest friends, Hutch O’Connor of Washington Township did the writing for Santa.

O’Connor and his wife Patricia, have been Santa’s assistants for 45 years, and they have stood in for Mr. and Mrs. Claus at the annual Centerville-Washington Twp. Woodland Lights Christmas walk for hundreds of wide-eyed children over the years.

“This year we were considering making it the final year,” O’Connor said. “We are both 77 years old and have been married 52 years, and we were thinking we should slow down a little.”

But both Hutch and Pat are glad they decided to take on the task for at least one more year.

“We have had hundreds of visits from children as we sat in for the Clauses over the years,” Hutch said. “This was the best year yet. None can compare.”

Here is part of his diary entry: “We were picked up in a golf car in front of the rec center at 5:30 p.m. Friday and Saturday, Dec. 18 and 19, 2009. We were driven to a secluded building where the elves helped us don our Santa apparel.

“We were then taken to the Santa Cabin, a beautiful rustic log cabin. Inside there was a roaring wood burning fire. In a corner there was a decorated tree and under it were many gifts. We saw stuffed animals, skis, sleds and all kind of goodies under the branches.

“At exactly 6 p.m. the side door of the cabin was opened and in rushed the kids, and families. Thus started the procession that would keep us busy for over three hours, with 700 visitors.

“Each kid would tell us their names and tell us what they wanted for Christmas. Pictures were taken and Mrs Claus gave each kid a candy cane. As each group departed by the south door, new arrivals repeated the scene until 9 p.m.”

The diary report continued, “What a truly fantastic time it was. The joy on the children’s faces was all the reward that my wife and I needed. It was unparalleled.

“On our journey back to the North Pole we thought about the many items the children asked for.

“There was a long list that included, video games, dinosaurs, Barbies, puppy’s, American Girl Dolls, and oh so many requests.

“While we admit to being quite exhausted, our arms sore from lifting so many children, we kept thinking of how the joy they brought to our hearts was worth it.

“The highlight was when one young girl, with tears in her eyes told Santa, ‘I hope you can please help bring peace to the world.”

Santa’s stand-in added, “It was a wonderful experience for us. Will we do it again? Who knows. But it sure was a spectacular event, both nights. Mrs. Claus and I wish every everyone a joyful holiday season, and a wonderful, prosperous New Year 2010.”

After closing the book of his diary, he said he and his wife would pray together. And then they plan to prepare to take a long winter’s nap.

Dale Huffman wants your suggestions and story ideas. He’d like to share a story about you, your family, or a friend. This column is for you. Send e-mail to dhuffman@DaytonDailyNews.com or write to Dale at 1611 S. Main St. Dayton, OH 45409. Fax: (937) 225-2489. Phone: (937) 225-2272.

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