On December 19th, Santa made its fourth annual Santa Stop for families and children at Marco Lake Drive. This is very special for organizers Allyson Richards and Al’s Pals partnering with Marco Island Police Department and Chief Tracy Frazzano.
Christmas songs in Spanish – no problema – as MIPD brought along a playlist of popular songs across Latin America. There are many versions of classic Spanish songs, but nothing beats the easy lyrics and beat of Feliz Navidad! It stays in your head long after the holiday season, and its universal message is that of joy and unity.
There is a version that is a mix of Spanish and English written and popularized by Jose Feliciano in 1970 with its message of “Merry Christmas and a Happy New” enjoyed by fans across generations. It is upbeat, cheerful, and you can dance to it - even toddlers hum to its beat!
Other songs such as Blanca Navidad (White Christmas) had a hard time fitting with the 80-degree afternoon; Noche de Paz – the Spanish version of the classic Silent Night, and yes, there was a Spanish version of Rudolf the Red Nose Reindeer – Rodolfo El Reno.
New to the event this year were two miniature horses from the Naples Therapeutic Riding Center, Raisin, and Itty Bitty – both girls traveled to Marco with their handlers, Kayla (Barn Manager) and Christian (mini program coordinator). Raisin and Itty Bitty travel across Collier and Lee County to many events. Itty Bitty is easy to distinguish from Raisin. She has a distinctive blue eye paired with a dark eye on the other side. Both enjoyed body and ear scratches from everybody, and most of the children had never seen miniature horses. Such a treat! The mission of the Center is to improve the lives of children and adults with physical, social, and mental health needs through therapeutic riding and other equine-related programs. Their presence definitely put a big smile on everyone.
Thanks to Santa and the magical elves for stopping by and making spirits bright for over 100 children and their families. It was toys galore for all the children; they also had tables for moms and essential items for newborns to toddlers. Another table had food items and fresh fruits. The bigger kids had their eyes on three bicycles, and three lucky winners rode off with their brand new ride.
A big thank you to all the generous donors for making this special Santa Stop possible each year.
“Felize Navidad, Feliz Navidad, prospero ano y Felicidad.” Hasta el año que viene! (Until next year!)
