For long-time Natchezians, nothing says Christmas like the Christmas Eve parade of the Santa Claus Committee, which drives through Natchez neighborhoods throwing candy to children and wishing merry to all the committee meets along the way.

But their purpose is far more important in this season of giving. The Natchez Santa Claus Committee has long supported the efforts of the Children’s Christmas Tree Fund, which aims to make sure needy children here don’t go through Christmas without receiving a gift. Santa delivers those gifts to children in need, organized by Catholic Charities, at the Braden School Administration Building auditorium.

To see just how important their work is, look no further than the photos from the event, published in our newspaper and on our website. Those precious, smiling faces and little arms hugging Santa tightly speak volumes about the good these groups do in our community.

None of it would be possible without the support of many in our community who contribute each year to the Children’s Christmas Tree Fund.

On behalf of a grateful community, thank you for your gift to making the season bright for all of children of Natchez.

Speaking of home and holidays, welcome home to all of our college students who are enjoying a much-needed break from the rigors of college life by spending the holiday at home here in Natchez.

Many, like Dallin Blanks, a 2018 graduate of Cathedral High School, who is now a student at the University of Southern Mississippi studying graphic design, are home visiting with family, friends, and in Dallin’s case, his favorite pet, Teddy.

We are proud of you and are glad to have you home, even for a short while.

Enjoy it while you can, students. These four years go by quickly, and the real world of rent, utilities and installment payments awaits you. Maybe it’s time to start thinking about graduate school.