Here in the communications department, when we got word that Santa had reached out directly to Alpha with news about having to cancel the 2020 Santa Run throughout Centre Region, we thought it would be best to simply share that communication directly.

There are some things you get that you move to page one no matter what.

Below please find the word-for-word explanation from the Alpha Volunteer Fire Company that explains the pure, sometimes difficult, logic of listening to our better angels.

Santa Clause is a better angel. This holiday season and beyond into the New Year  …   Let’s be like Santa.

Sad News From The Alpha Volunteer Fire Company.

Sad news.

After talking with Santa earlier today, the Alphas were asked to cancel this year’s Santa Run. We all know Santa watches who has been naughty or nice, but he also watches for much more.

Santa is increasingly concerned with the strain that the pandemic has placed on the area’s first responders and on our medical care providers and health care systems. While we believed our planned modifications to this year’s event were prudent when we made them, the situation has changed for the worse and we agree with Santa.

After all, how can you say no to Santa?

The Santa Run is the highlight of the year for us and our firefighters and fire police take pride and pleasure helping Santa get a practice run through our neighborhoods before his sleigh ride later that night but, like Santa, we also do not want to add to the burden on our community.

We wish you and yours a safe, healthy, and joyous holiday season and look forward to bringing Santa through our communities in 2021.

Santa Asked Us To Share A Word With You.

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Dear Children of All Ages,

This has been a difficult year for so many of us and we’ve all had to make big changes in our lives, our work, our schools, and even our family gatherings.

We have made these changes to help each other get through this pandemic as best we can. I’ve had to make changes as well – even up here in the North Pole.

The Reindeer have been in separate pastures and the elves spent most of the year supporting our first responders and health care workers by making masks, shields, gowns, and sanitizer to help safeguard them as they work to care for your friends and neighbors. But no worries – we have now started working overtime on our favorite thing – Christmas gifts!

I spoke with the Alphas earlier today and made the difficult decision that it is in the best interest of Happy Valley if we cancel this year’s Santa Run. I will miss seeing your smiling faces as you gathered on your porches and street corners and watching the Alphas hand out treats to children and doggos alike. Please know that while I won’t be riding the truck on Christmas Eve, I will be coming by later that night.

While this holiday is going to be very different than what we’re used to, I want all of you to know that the things that really matter never, ever change – faith, hope, generosity, kindness, and love – for they are the magic behind the Spirit of Christmas and I hope we all try just a little bit harder to keep that spirit burning brighter through the whole year.

Merry Christmas to all,
and to all, a good night!
— Santa