Santa was in Omena on Christmas Eve and it was a wonderful, multi-generational affair. Over 30 adults and almost 20 children awaited Santa’s arrival on the fire truck. There were five families with three generations at the gathering. Two families, the Wheelers and the DelaFuentes, tied for most attendees this year, with twelve each. They both had seven adults and five children with them. Martha DelaFuente was there with her daughters and sons-in-law and all five of her grandchildren.
Bob and Kori Wheeler not only had three generations there, but three generations who had all sat on Santa’s lap in the fire hall. Kori grew up in downtown Omena and went to see Santa at the fire hall every Christmas Eve. Her mother, Alice Brown Hauske, was part of Club 21 that always organized Santa’s visit. Four of their five grandchildren had the honor this year, but one chose to be a little shy. Santa still gave her a bag of candy.
Steve and Mary Stanton were there with their daughter and son-in-law, Emily and James Kohler, and their three children. They are also three generations who have seen Santa at the Omena fire hall as children. Mary grew up in Omena, and, although she lived out of state for many years, has only missed one year of seeing Santa in Omena. Her children also went every year. Mary’s mother, Anna Hallett, was also part of the Club 21 members who always made sure that Santa had cookies in Omena. It’s why he keeps coming every year.
