Meet your neighbor

Name: Santa Claus.

Hometown: The North Pole. He divides his time between the North Pole and Coeur d’Alene now. Years ago he fell very, very ill, so the doctor told him to go to a warmer climate. Some places were too warm for him, but Coeur d’Alene was a happy medium. He goes to the North Pole four times a year to check on the elves and the reindeer.

Other occupation (besides being Santa): He is a cashier at the Shell Station and convenience store located at U.S. Highway 95 and Honeysuckle.

Family: A son, Jay, 30, who lives on the East Coast, and hundreds of elves at the North Pole.

Other: The children he encounters in Coeur d’Alene are very lovable. He asks them throughout the year if they’re being good. Of course they say yes. Then he mentions “The Book,” and are they sure that they are always good? Their eyes get huge, because they realize he really does know!

He tries to keep his appearances low-key and family oriented. He has appeared at various charity events and private parties. He also hosts “Breakfast with Santa” at Hunters restaurant in Post Falls. The store raffles off a 6-foot stocking each year and with the funds and adopts a family that otherwise would not have Christmas. Last year they were able to adopt three families; this year they adopted five. Santa has delivered the toys and food to three of the families already. He is heading out Wednesday to begin his rounds and then plans a week of rest and relaxation!