It was very well attended again with the hall full of people of all ages. Around 350 guests / visitors signed in at Bentley's 16th Santa's Celebration held on December 14 at the Blindman Valley Ag Centre.
Not counted in that number were the throng of volunteers from numerous community groups who helped in various ways, as well as those who provided entertainment, and those from the town of Bentley Community Services who helped coordinate it all.
People were greeted at the Door with a friendly smile and asked to sign in.
Some members of the Bentley School Chest Society and some students from the School Leadership team were kept busy mixing and cooking pancakes all morning. There were also traditional Christmas oranges, Bles World yogurt, and juice and coffee to drink - all free.
Museum Society members helped children write letters to Santa and said each would be answered by mail.
Sheila Kelba-Warawa from the local Bentley municipal library held story time inside a tent.
Jennifer Johnson and some of her music students offered up music.
Twenty-one members from the Rimbey Gymnastic Club, under the direction and guidance of Brenda Krossa and Jill Bellows, performed a number of routines set to music giving the kids good exposure to an audience.
A variety of craft stations set up on long tables, and stocked with a myriad of craft supplies, was coordinated and sponsored by Play and Stay Program members.
Story books from FCSS were available so each child could pick up one to take home.
Of course no Santa's breakfast would be complete without a visit from Santa himself and a chance to tell him what you would like for Christmas.
A gingerbread fire house complete with trees and 2 edible fire trucks that was created by Kathi and Peter Issler who are volunteers with the Bentley Fire Department, was won by 8-year-old Hannah Nickerson who was overjoyed when her name was called. Then her family had to figure out how to get the creation home. Luckily it came apart and the trucks could even be lifted off the fire hall scene for easier transportation.
Financial, as well as other donations, were received.
It was a fun filled busy morning for all who helped out or attended.