By JENNA RHUDE
The Progress
Christmas Magic was in the air on Thursday, Dec. 9 as preschool children from all over Moapa Valley communities gathered at the Moapa Valley Recreation/Senior Center in Overton to decorate cookies and have a visit with Santa.
Commissioner Marilyn Kirkpatrick provides funding for this fun annual event which is informally called “Cookies with the Commissioner.” Her goal is to gather both the children and the seniors in the community and give them the opportunity to work and play together and enjoy each other’s company.
Kirkpatrick was in attendance at the event, attending to the children and talking to adults alike.
As the event began, excited preschool children gathered in the foyer of the building. They were greeted by Elmer (Lopez) the Elf and ushered into the main room which had been decorated beautifully for Christmas. Cookies were handed out by Angelo, bakery manager at Lin’s Marketplace. The kids were also provided with frosting and sprinkles to decorate these treats.
As the children began their delicious, colorful creations the seniors also gathered in the room and enjoyed the sounds of joy and laughter coming from the youngsters.
After cookies, it was time for lunch. In true kid fashion the commissioner and other center staff served the little ones chicken nuggets, mini corn dogs, mac and cheese, tater tots, and veggies. To top it off the parents and seniors in attendance were served roast beef and mashed potatoes.
Not to be outdone by Elmer the Elf, Santa made his appearance. Santa was introduced by Metro Sergeant Keegan Doty. The kids excitedly shouted as the big guy bounced into the room.
Kids patiently lined up waiting to sit with Jolly Old St. Nick. Each was greeted with rosy cheeks, a candy cane, and a small stuffed animal.
Overall the event was a huge success bringing together two generations gapped by decades. A special thank you to Commissioner Kirkpatrick and staff, Parks and Recreation staff, Overton Senior Center staff, Resident Metro Officers and all the parents and children who made this event a fun success.
1 thought on “Kids, Seniors Get Together For Holiday Fun”
I liked it when you shared that kids will usually shout excitedly if they see a Santa gets into the room. It is great to make a special Christmas celebration that can make the children excited. I would like to think if a company wants to organize a Christmas party, it should consider hiring a Santa for it.