‘Right jolly old elf’ ready for his Christmas Eve run
By Chris Walker (Contact)
Monday, December 22, 2008
Monday Conversation is a regular feature in The Gazette. It is a question-and-answer interview, usually with a local person. However, this week, The Gazette was able to procure an exclusive interview with Santa Claus. If you have children, gather them around and read this interview to them. Some of the questions came from Emporia children.
Q With three days till Christmas, is it too late for children to contact you with you with their wish lists?
A It’s not too late, but they must hurry because the elves are already packing up the sleigh. The fastest way to contact me is at the Emporia Post Office on Merchant Street, where they have a special red box in the lobby for mail that goes to the North Pole.
Q In the weeks leading up to Christmas, how are you able to be in so many different places?
A My elves keep me on a very tight schedule. My sleigh makes it possible for me to get around very quickly.
Q Will you deliver presents on Christmas Eve if the weather is bad?
A Oh yes. Rudolph is my special reindeer and he takes me to every child’s house even in the worst weather. His nose lights my way.
Q How do you know who has been naughty and nice?
A I gather information all year long from parents, teachers and babysitters to see who has been behaving themselves. Children on my good list obey their parents and teachers and get along with brothers and sisters.
Q Is it too late to be put on the naughty list?
A Until I stop at your house, it is never too late to be put on the naughty list. It’s important to be good all the time.
Q Do you leave better presents for children who leave cookies and milk out for you?
A Of course not, but the snacks help keep me and the reindeer going all night while we deliver presents.
Q How do reindeer fly?
A Santa and his helpers discovered magical oats and corn. When the reindeer eat the oats and corn, they can leap into the air and fly.
Q How do you fit all the toys in your sleigh?
A The secret is my magical red bag.
Q Why do live at the North Pole and not in Emporia?
A Winter is my favorite season, and at the North pole it is winter all year long.