After a great weekend kicking off the holidays with Mr. and Mrs. Claus, light parades, live music and so much more, Brown County is gearing up for another great Christmas season.
This week the staff at the Brown County Democrat played Santa’s helpers and caught up with some Brown County teachers, administrators and staff! From getting presents to simply being “present,” these individuals enjoyed sharing their “What I want from Santa” wish lists with the community.
“Dear Santa, I wanted to take a moment to share our Christmas wish list on behalf of our sports program,” said Mark Bruner, BCHS Athletic Director. “We’ve been working hard throughout the year, and we believe these gifts will not only benefit our athletes but also contribute to the overall success and growth of our program. We would like to have a turf field. This field could be used for both football and soccer. It would not only enhance the playing experience but also reduce the impact of weather conditions on our games and training schedules. I think a fieldhouse would be a great complement to Eagle Park. This would provide more space and gyms. We would also host a lot of tournaments that would bring in revenue to our programming. Our coaching staff works tirelessly to mentor and guide our athletes. Increasing their compensation would not only show our appreciation for their hard work but also help us attract and retain top-tier coaches. Santa, we understand that these wishes are quite ambitious, but we believe they will have a lasting and positive impact on our sports program. We appreciate your time and consideration and eagerly await the possibility of these gifts becoming a reality. Wishing you a joyful holiday season and thanking you in advance for your generosity!”
“I want my family all together for a Christmas dinner, presents for all, and a fire in the fireplace,” said Christy Wrightsman, Director of BCHS Career Connected Learning.
“What I want from Santa would be a cozy weekend at home with my husband, three kiddos and our dogs; all hanging out together playing board games and being ‘present,’” said Ronna Snyder, BCHS Administrative Assistant.
“I hope Santa will watch over and spread cheer to every home in Brown County this holiday season to ensure sweet smiles are abundant,” said Emily Tracy, Brown County Schools Superintendent. “I hope Santa and his reindeer have a clear night navigating all over the world and are safe from winter storms! I secretly hope Santa brings me some new running gear.”
“A riding lawn mower and new basketball socks,” said Will Connelly, BCHS Social Studies Teacher.
“A ‘Mary Poppins bag’ filled with all the things that can help me support my students exactly the way they need it,” said Heather Sawyer, BCMS 6th grade Math and Social Studies Teacher. “Oh, and a washer and dryer that folds and hangs my laundry!
“Hey Santa! Can you bring some goodies for my family like a running car for my daughter Jessi and a new hip for my honey Ken?” said Carol Bowden, School Board Vice President. “I would appreciate it and thanks anyway for all the joy you bring during the Christmas season. Say hi to Rudolph and the Gang along with the Elves for me. Merry Christmas and have a Great Happy New Year Everyone.”
“My Holiday Wish is for all young children in Brown County to have access to high-quality early childhood programs,” said Jayne Jones, Early Childhood Education Teacher.
“I want Santa to bring my family home safely so we can all enjoy Christmas together,” said Darcy Rund, 5th grade teacher at Helmsburg Elementary.
“Dear Santa,
I hope this letter finds you in good spirits and with plenty of joy as the holiday season approaches,” said Kelli Bruner, Helmsburg Elementary Principal. “This year, my heart is filled with gratitude and excitement as I wish to embark on a new journey. I would like to retire and move to Nebraska to be closer to my new grandbaby, Bohen Kate.
While I’m excited about this new adventure, I can’t help but think about the wonderful Helmsburg community I would be leaving behind. I don’t think I can leave them right now, I would miss them too much.
So, if it’s not too much to ask, Santa, I would like to extend my heartfelt wishes to all my Helmsburg students, staff, and their families. May their Christmas be filled with laughter, warmth, and the joy of being surrounded by loved ones. May the holiday season bring them moments of happiness and togetherness that they will cherish for years to come.
Thank you, Santa, for making the holidays truly magical. Wishing you and your team a Merry Christmas and a joyous New Year! #TigerPride
With warmest regards, Mrs. Bruner.”
