Beneath the rafters were echoes of Christmas programs of days gone by at the Sage Creek Community Club’s 99th Christmas program. On Dec. 2, excited children, dressed up in their finest clothes, ran, giggled and yelled at one another to head upstairs so the program could begin in anticipation of Santa’s arrival. Club members carried in cookies, candy and warm sandwiches.  

The canvas bag to hold presents from Santa is over 70 years old. Tom and Jerry, from an old recipe, were served in the downstairs kitchen to waiting adults. 

During the program children of all ages recited poems, portrayed Christmas stories and sung songs. The stage is set with a beautiful Nativity scene, lights twinkle, and little faces shine. The Christmas tree was decorated by adults and older children earlier in the day. Leslie Maslak, grandmother to many of the participating children, rehearsed with the group. 

As in past years, the carol, “Up On the Roof Top, Click Click” signaled the arrival of Santa. Tiger McNeil has played Santa for 30-plus years and is a third-generation Sage Creek member. Impatient little ones waited politely as Santa called their name. They sat on his lap, telling him their wishes. Each child received a present and a brown paper gift bag, containing ribbon candy, peanuts, caramel corn and an apple just like their parents, grandparents and great-grandparents received many decades ago. New families delight in the tradition and join in. 

Patrick Nylander, 14 months, was handsome in his Christmas sweater and in awe of Santa.  The fifth-generation Sage Creek member wasn’t crying, just looking at the man in the red suit, white hair and beard, taking it all in. 

Children madly opened packages and began munching on their treats. The crowd left the upstairs dance hall, descended the curved stairs to the dining hall. More Tom and Jerry were served as families lined up for food and conversation. 

The old communal spirit that founded the club in 1924, lives on.