`Santa makes visits to 2 other towns`

By Erin Remai
Herald Writer

Santa not only visits West Middlesex, but he shows up in Sharpsville on Christmas eve, and in Wheatland on Dec. 19, among other places.

In a tradition dating back to Christmas 1948, the Sharpsville area boasts 22 Santas and 22 helpers who visit every home in the town that has its front porch light on tonight. “We give out popcorn balls, and if the family members want, they can leave their gifts on the porch, and we deliver them to the children inside,” explained Joe Phillips, president of the Sharpsville Service Club, which sponsors the project. “We usually pass out over 7,000 popcorn balls before the night is over,” he added.

In Wheatland, Santa leaves his reindeer at the North Pole and rides a firetruck to visit the homes of children and senior citizens with the assistance of volunteer fire fighters, and . “We start at 5 p.m., and stop at any home with their front porch light on, leaving treats,” said Wheatland Volunteer Fire Chief Andrew Clarke, describing the 40-year plus tradition.

The Wheatland American Legion Post 432 Ladies Auxiliary, the Wheatland Volunteer Fire Fighters’ Ladies Auxiliary, Wheatland Boosters, Wheatland borough and firefighters themselves donate money and time to make this event possible.

Both Wheatland and Sharpsville are always on the hunt for more volunteers every year.

For more information, or to volunteer time or money for Santa visits, contact Joe Phillips at 962-9961 in Sharpsville, and Andrew Clarke at 342-9961 in Wheatland.

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