Kids Fill Their List at ‘Shop with Santa’ Event

Over 200 elementary-age children filled their Christmas gift list during the recent 'Shop with Santa' event presented by Steele County 4-H. Held at St. John Lutheran Church in Owatonna, the event allows children sixth grade and younger to do their shopping with the assistance of 4-H members and away from their parents.

Chairperson Sandy Jirele reports that 224 little shoppers took care of their lists in a hassle-free environment and $4,500 was raised for Steele County 4-H. Each year 4-H students make the gifts that are sold at 'Shop with Santa.' Presents are sold for five dollars or less and gifts are wrapped before the children leave.

Upcoming holiday-themed events include the St. Mary's Christmas concert Thursday, December 14 at 6:30PM at the school gym. The Owatonna High School holiday concert is Tuesday, December 19 at the auditorium featuring the Carolers, Symphony Orchestra and the Concert Choir at 7PM.

The Owatonna library is hosting a pair of free movie presentations on Thursday, December 14. It's a Wonderful Life will be shown at 2PM. Star Wars: The Force Awakens will be screened at 6:30PM, a day before the official opening of the sequel Star Wars: The Last Jedi.