‘Santa’s Place’ on 82nd brings smiles to kids, help to those in need

Here’s where to take your kids to see the real Santa Claus – and take photos of your family with jolly St. Nick for free – and, at the same time, help organizations who help so many folks the year ’round …

Looking for the real Santa Claus? He’s now at Eastport Plaza!

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
From across the country come reports of cheesy “corporate” Santa Claus characters with stringy fake beards, being recruited to play jolly St. Nick. Other accounts tell of family members being rebuked when they try to snap a picture of their little one on Santa’s lap – instead of buying an overpriced “photo package”.

But things are different at Eastport Plaza, one of the nation’s longest-operating shopping centers.

Eastport Plaza’s manager, Dianne Gill, says Santa’s Place is easy to find – just look for the sign.

“We think Christmas should be about giving,” says Manager Dianne Gill. “That’s why we established ‘Santa’s Place’ here.”

It’s a good place to bring very young children for their first visit, Gill observes, because Santa’s Throne Room is delightfully decorated, yet quiet, and kept away from the Holiday hustle and bustle. The room features Santa’s Throne, crafted in 1960 and beautifully refinished. “Some people come by and say they sat there on Santa’s lap, and are now delighted that their children, or grandchildren, are able enjoy the very same experience.”

Even very little kids, like Gracen McInturff, feel comfortable with Santa, because of the quiet, comfortable environment.

And, instead of having a commercial photographer there to sell pictures, Gill adds, “We encourage families to bring their cameras or use their cell phones to take their own pictures – for free.”

Additionally, Santa’s place offers a “toy testing room”, a movie room, and lots of free popcorn.

Santa’s hostess, Lucy Tipton, helps make sure gifts brought by guests do go to their selected local charities.

The joy of giving
“While we’re thrilled to be able to give a free visit with Santa to our community,” Gill says, “We hope our guests will give to people in need by bringing new, unwrapped toys, new coats or new blankets, boxed or canned food, or cash donations for the five charities represented at Santa’s Place.”

Guests can choose to contribute to:

Salvation Army Angel Tree
Sunshine Division Food Barrel
Trillium Family Services
Toys for Tots
Toy-N-Joy

“The best part for me,” Gill concludes, “is seeing the fun that adults have when they visit, and the wonder and amazement in the little ones’ eyes.”

All about ‘Santa’s Place’
Santa’s Place at Eastport Plaza
4000 SE 82nd Avenue

Open through December 24
Open days from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.; evenings from 4 p.m. until 8 p.m.
Closed Sundays
Kids must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.
Information: Call 503-771-3817 or visit www.eastportplaza.com

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