Santa makes his arrival in St. Joseph

By Jazmine Knight

Santa Claus is now in town.

The jolly visitor from the North Pole arrived Friday at East Hills Shopping Center.

The day began at 10 a.m. with a “Mix and Jingle” featuring music from Something Else Cabaret, sweet treats and drinks. Visitors also shopped at the local vendor and craft fair that is happening all weekend.

Santa’s arrival was accompanied by Central High School’s Jazz Band with a Christmas tree lighting and photo ops following.

Holding the title of Mr. East Hills, Liam Summy got the opportunity to walk alongside Santa.

“I feel like I’m the elf,” he said.

While sitting with Santa, Summy shared his Christmas list which consists of V-bucks for Fortnite, a tennis game and Robucks for Roblox.

For Summy, this is also his first time winning a trophy. Though he was nervous to take the stage with Santa, the audience’s smiles eased his nerves.

“I feel like I’m actually the king of the mall,” he said. “I was scared a little but it felt like everybody liked me and knows me.”

Phoenix Wilmes, another attendee, said Friday was her first time meeting Santa.

“I asked for a new dolly house, new wrapping paper for my room and a lot of dolls,” she said.

Both Wilmes and Sumy agree that the Christmas tree at East Hills is one of the biggest ones they’ve seen. Wilmes anticipates being on Santa’s “nice” list this year and hopes to see a lot of presents on Christmas morning.