Published January 04. 2024 12:18PM
by JIM MARSH Special to The Press
Each year for many decades firefighters from Western Salisbury Volunteer Fire Company have provided a Christmas treat for families by taking Santa Claus through neighborhoods in the fire company’s fire district.
Santa, Mrs. Claus and the Grinch pass through the neighborhoods with engine lights flashing and sirens blaring to let people know Santa is close by. Large speakers are placed on the front of the lead engine in the parade to play Christmas carols. Many families say they stay close to home on the traditional Saturday before Christmas so they can scurry out to wave or take a photo of Santa with the youngsters.
For volunteers it’s a long day. Preparations begin 9 a.m. The Santa run begins about 10 a.m. and lasts until after dark.
The volunteers pause midafternoon for hot chocolate and cookies and a crew photo at the chief’s house.
Chief Joshua Wells describes the Santa run as a way to stay in touch with residents in a positive way. “It’s a good way of getting into our neighborhoods that does not involve an emergency situation.” Wells said. “Our crew members look forward all year to our Christmastime Santa run.”
It might be that whoever dons the Grinch suit for a Christmastime appearance just can't help being a little mischievous in the Grinch tradition. Salisbury Police Department patrol officer Jay Vasilik portrays the Grinch riding the police department's all-terrain cycle for the Dec. 23, 2023 Western Salisbury Volunteer Fire Company's annual Santa run through the neighborhoods in the WSVFC fire district. The Grinch couldn't help himself. LEFT: During a hot chocolate stop at the chief's house, the Grinch issues a citation and impound notice for the fire department's big ladder truck for taking up too much room on the street. No word on whether the Grinch relented and withdrew his citation. Story and additinal photos appear on Page A5. PRESS PHOTO BY JIM MARSH
Photos with Santa are a family favorite during the Dec. 23, 2023 Santa run on the western side of town.
A crew photo is an annual tradition during a hot chocolate break at the chief's home during the Santa run.
PRESS PHOTOS BY JIM MARSH Elora Overdorff said she likes the Grinch best, while brother Tobin likes Santa, with dad Geoff just happy to see the kids' enthusiasm as night falls on the Western Salisbury Volunteer Fire Company Santa run Dec. 23, 2023.
It is a long day for the Western Salisbury Volunteer Fire Company crew from midmorning until well after dark when the annual fire department Santa run concluded. “But,” Fire Chief Joshua Wells said, “we look forward to our holiday Santa run all year long.”
