EATON — Santa, Mrs. Claus, and Buddy the Elf welcomed Camden Primary Elementary Students to the courthouse on Friday, Dec. 1, where together they lit the courthouse tree and ushered in the holiday season.
As Santa was too busy to come himself, Commission President Chris Day wore red the suit for Santa, Commissioner Denise Robertson was Mrs. Claus, and Buddy the Elf loaned his clothes to Commissioner Rodney Creech.
The first and second grade students clamored up the courthouse stairs to gather before the giant tree which was put in place earlier in the week. The tree was strung with lights, but most importantly, ornaments made by kids all over Preble County.
At their chant of “Ho, Ho, Ho,” the three commissioners came out, to the delight of the children.
The kids sang a few Christmas carols and listened to Santa tell a story, before the countdown that magically lit the tree.
“Every year we have an annual Christmas Tree lighting at the courthouse,” Creech said. “Today we have Camden Primary first and second graders. Every year we bring in a different school. They kind of move them back and forth.”
The annual lighting has been going on for longer than Creech can remember, but this is the first year the commissioners have served as Santa’s helpers. He believes this will be a new tradition for years to come — especially since they already own the outfits.
Creech added, he believes this event spreads holiday cheer for both the kids and those who work in the courthouse.
“I think it is great for the kids to come to the courthouse and see the Christmas tree. It puts everyone in the spirit, singing those songs. Everyone at the courthouse loves it too.”
