HARKER HEIGHTS — The No. 1 couple of the season had time to stop by to see some kids Sunday afternoon at Always Here Properties in Harker Heights.
Company owner Danielle Shepard has invited Joe Finney and his wife Heather from Lampasas to help her spread Christmas cheer once again this year. The couple said they were “replacing” Mr and Mrs Claus, as the couple had so much to do to prepare for Christmas this year.
“We only had about a dozen families, but they all seemed to have a great time,” Shepard said of last year’s attendance.
Sunday’s gathering was the second annual visit with Santa Claus and Mrs. Claus.
Shepard is the broker for Always Here Properties. She and real estate agent Kim Van Riper discussed ways to give back to the many customers, visitors and community members who have taken the time to partner with the business throughout the year. A visit with Santa Claus and Mrs. Claus seemed like the best idea, so last year they started the tradition.
Van Riper’s son Gregory, 11, and a sixth-grade student at Nolan Middle School helped hand out refreshments as the unofficial “Cocoa and Cookie Elf.”
“As members of the Chamber, we value partnerships with other businesses and individuals that really help the community thrive,” Shepard said.
She was also the driving force behind coordinating Mr. and Mrs. Claus’ attendance.
“It didn’t take a lot of persuading,” Shepard said.
“We are always happy to work with Danielle,” said Santa Finney. “It’s also a chance for us to give back to those who have supported us throughout the year.”
Finney and his wife are residents of Lampasas where they also have a pressure washing business. Finny is a retired Purple Heart veteran who has done his duty “all over the world”. When it came time to find a place to retire, he left it up to his wife, as she had followed him for so many years, it was her turn to choose their location.
Around 2:30 p.m., Shepard noted that about 50 families stopped with their children to visit Santa Claus and Mrs. Claus.
“We deeply appreciate all the help and support for this event,” Shepard said. “We will definitely ask Clauses to come back next year.”
