It’s a kids’ Christmas in Floyd

By Bob Steenson, bsteenson@charlescitypress.com

An enthusiastic crowd of kids gathered at Floyd’s Grace United Methodist Church on Saturday morning for a Kid’s Shopping Extravaganza, followed by a visit from Santa.

Children age 12 and under were able to pick out up to five gifts each for 25 cents apiece, from a wide assortment of items spread out on tables. The gifts, for parents, grandparents, siblings or others, were then wrapped and labeled and ready for placing under the tree.

Personal shoppers helped the children so they could keep their selections secret from their parents who accompanied them to the church, said Jan Tjaden, who estimated 45 to 50 children attended the event.

“Money raised will be given to local families in need,” Tjaden said. “The committee will meet and decide who to give it to and how to use it.”

Children were also able to decorate – and eat! – a free sugar cookie and listen to the Christmas Story.

The morning’s activities then shifted to the Floyd Community Center, where the Floyd Lions Club held its annual Santa’s Day. Bingo with gifts kept people busy until the eagerly anticipated arrival of Santa Claus.