The clock is ticking as a jolly old elf prepares for his global journey.
Besides checking his list to see who has been naughty or nice, he’s trying to keep up with some last-minute requests.
And as in previous years, North Okanagan residents are making their case to Santa Claus.
“I would ask Santa to bring smiles and happiness to all the kids in his travels, their parents able to sit back and enjoy the day laughing at their kid’s excitement.” – Akbal Mund, Vernon mayor
“I consider Santa a symbol of giving and gratitude. This year, I prefer to show my gratitude for all of the things I have been and am so blessed with. First I am grateful for my good health and the health of my family. Second we live in the most beautiful place in the world. Third my grandson and his family are coming to celebrate Christmas with us. And my new claim to fame, I was kissed by Sir Anthony Hopkins.” – Jamie Seward, Enderby artist
“For Christmas this year, I want to start a dialogue with the greater community about the rich history of the Okanagan people before contact and the, sometimes difficult, shared history between all people who have called this land their home. Meaningful dialogue between Okanagan and non-Okanagan people will not only strengthen existing relationships, but also lay the foundation for new ones.” – Byron Louis, Okanagan Indian Band chief
“Well if it was a request to Westjet’s Santa Claus, I would go big and say an African Safari for a family of five. How awesome would that be to wake up Christmas morning to lions, zebras, elephants and giraffes? Staying within the realm of reality, I am happy Santa will be bringing my two children home from university for the holidays and it would be nice if he could fit a Challenger Hellcat in his bag too. Oops there’s that reality slip again.” – Ina Forrest, Paralympic curler
“Our wish is for the community to have a very Merry Christmas. We are also looking for a building to accommodate all of our activities. That would be a wish come true.” – David MacBain, Salvation Army community ministries director
“I’m asking Santa to sprinkle down some of his Christmas magic over the Upper Room Mission building as he’s flying past, so that it’s filled with extra love for everyone throughout the year.” – Lisa Anderson, Upper Room Mission fundraising director
“This year I’m asking for an end to the avian influenza outbreak in the Fraser Valley. I am also happy to celebrate $8.4 million for B.C. orchardists through the replant program.” – Norm Letnick, agriculture minister and Lake Country MLA
“Isn’t it obvious? Santa needs to bring me snow and lots of it.” – Anne Haight, director of sales and marketing, Silver Star Mountain Resort
“Stronger film incentives for the Okanagan Film Commission to work with.” – Rick Dugdale, with Enderby Entertainment and producer of Go With Me.
“I wish animals got adopted a lot faster. I work closely with the SPCA shelters in the Okanagan and while dogs and kittens seem to find homes rather quickly, for some adult cats, the wait can be too long.” — Klaudia Van Emmerik, Global TV
“I want Santa to bring everyone a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. And personally, I’d like Santa to bring me a better golf swing.” – Eric Foster, Vernon-Monashee MLA.
No matter what you find under the tree, I wish you all peace and joy. A very merry Christmas and all of the best during the new year.
