Can you hear those holiday bells? Mahala Landin sits down with JD Thomas. You may have seen him dressed up as Santa Claus, bartending at STIR in North Hills, or telling haunted stories during Halloween in downtown Raleigh. Did you know that he is also an Amtrak engineer? JD wears many hats!
Well, hey there, Santa! It is so good to see you in town. It's wonderful to come back into town because you know, I'm getting ready for Christmas. So many people are gearing up for the holidays. And it must mean that you're here for our RACH Kid's Toy Drive. That is exactly why I'm in town. Can't wait to get this started. Because we had such a good time. Last year, we did! And we helped so many families raising toys for the Ronald McDonald House of Chapel Hill. But we also had some really great interactive videos that you sent to kids. Well, you know, I really love children, and I love being able to do what I can. That's a wonderful time of the year and a wonderful program that you have. I know my kids were super excited to have a message straight from you talking about what they wanted for Christmas, what they wanted to see under the tree, and maybe even a little bit of personal information that would help them have a really great year. Oh, that's always the best when I can feel that a child is That's the season. So we have started our official RACH Kid's telling me what they are proud of what they've done this year, you know, I want to make sure that they know that I k Toy Drive. We're so excited to have Santa here with us again, reminder that The Rachel Kendall Team donates a toy with every closing. And that helps fund our entire year. But this extra little push is how the Ronald McDonald House gives back to each and every participant, sibling, and just makes sure that everybody has a wonderful holiday experience. So one of the things that we're doing is our videos with Santa. Yes! But we are also doing different bin locations across Wake County to help donate and drop off toys. So Santa, what exactly is in the video? Well, I'm glad you asked. You know, what I like to do is produce a video at the North Pole for a special child or perhaps children together. What I like to know is the child's name. It's always fun to know about the Elf on the Shelf. Because if I know that name, then that elf will come right back to me and let me know how that child has been. Ho, ho, ho! And you know some other things I need are if there are other siblings in the house or perhaps a pet pets name, and perhaps some milestones or accomplishments that that child feels proud of this year because I want to touch on that. Also parents don't forget, I can also put in some desired behavior that you may like. Perhaps eating all your vegetables or sleeping in your own bed. Ho, ho, ho! Once I get all that information together, Mahala, I love to produce a video right there the North Pole, sometimes outside in the snow and sometimes with some of my trusty reindeer. Ho, ho, ho! This is a great way for parents, aunts, uncles, friends, godparents to get their children involved, and to make them a part of a great organization like the Ronald McDonald House of Chapel Hill. So with a very small donation, you'll be able to get your video from Santa personalized too. That's right. And remember, it's gonna be a big Christmas. Ho, ho, ho! So one other great partnership that we have with the Ronald McDonald House of Chapel Hill is the Light-A-Luminary project. This is something that's near and dear. It reminds me of my childhood. But so many people don't know what a luminary is. Santa how do you find the houses at night? Well, surprisingly, I use the luminaries. They're nice and lit up, I can see them clearly from the sled, and I've trained my reindeer to be on the lookout. Ho, ho, ho! We had so much fun helping the Ronald McDonald House with preparing these kits. And you too can purchase kits for your neighborhood community for $10 a kit. It's so beautiful to see your streets lined with the lights of all of the season and to help Santa find all of the homes that he needs to deliver presents to. And it's always a big help when Santa can always have those luminaries lit up so I can see them. And Rudolph, too. And Rudolph, too. Santa, thank you so much for coming from the North Pole. We know it's a long journey, but we so appreciate your partnership. Well, you know, I would not miss this for the world. And I think it's just wonderful what you're doing, and I'm glad and proud to be a part of it. Ho, ho, ho! Now everyone remember, Merry Christmas, and I'll see you soon.