Dear Santa: Here's some last minute gift requests

Many years ago (back in the 1980s, but who's counting) I used to write a column a couple of days before Christmas asking Santa to share his good will with area folks.

A colleague asked me the other day if I was going to do that again this year. A quick "no" followed, but I've changed my mind. What could it hurt to ask Santa to pass along some good will (gifts) to area residents?

* To Bloomfield Chamber of Commerce President Matt Miller, the board of directors, and Chamber members: Santa, bring them a huge gold star for a job well done. The Chamber proved what can be accomplished when you work together. And Santa, if you have some extra grant money in your bag, share it with the Bloomfield Chamber.

* To new Bloomfield Town Council members Eric Harrah, Dave Harding, and Doug Frye: Some extra money from the state (grants will do just fine too) to complete all the needed projects around town. They face a challenging four years, but the three love their town and that will show in their work.

* To Eastern Greene High School Principal Kevin Frank: Santa, this may be impossible, but you are the guy who makes the impossible happen. If you're friends with Kevin on Facebook, you know how much he loves Indiana University basketball. Is there any way you could help the Hoosiers make the NCAA Tournament and advance to the Final Four? I know that's a tall order, but Kevin would appreciate the effort.

* To Linton Mayor Patti Jones: Santa, Patti stepped up and took over when her husband Tom passed away this past March and she accomplished a lot in a short amount of time. Patti deserves some peace and quiet for a few weeks after she leaves office at the end of the month. She also deserves a huge thank you from her community. Thank you, Patti!

* To former Union High School basketball coach Joe Hart: I know, Santa, Joe is probably on your naughty list, but give him a break this Christmas. He's a good guy who means well. Is there any way you could help one of Detroit's professional sports teams -- the Lions, Pistons, Red Wings or Tigers -- win a title? That would put a smile on Joe's face.

* To Greene County Highway Department Superintendent Brent Murray: Santa, I know you love snow and cold temperatures. But Brent is working with a razor-thin budget, so if you could keep the snow to a minimum this winter I know he'd appreciate it.

* To all area food pantry volunteers: Santa, these folks deserve anything and everything you can give them. There are too many to name, but they know who they are and deserve a big pat on the back. Thank you!

* To Linton-Stockton High School football coach Steve Weber and next year's team: A trip to the Class A state title game in Lucas Oil Stadium.

* To Rick Hudson, former Bloomfield Evening World sports editor, and Bloomfield insurance man: A speedy recovery from his knee problems. How can Rick help solve Bloomfield's problems each morning at Dairy Queen if he's not able to get out every day?

* To Jasonville Mayor Roy Terrell: Another smooth four years in office.

* To Linton-Stockton High School girls basketball coach Brad McKinney: Santa, remember just a few years ago when Linton won a sectional? Remember when the Lady Miners were one of the best teams in southern Indiana back in the 1980s? Brad is doing his best to restore the Lady Miners to that level, but he needs some help. Nudge a few students to come out for basketball and put in the needed effort over the summer to make the season a success.

* To Mr. Bloomfield, Red Oliphant: All the happiness in the world. (Sorry, Red, for using I too many times in this column).

* To my daughter Rachael: I know she has about everything she needs, so I'm going to put in a request for 2013. She'll finish with graduate school that spring and will be looking for a college golf coaching job. I don't want any coach to be fired, but if there are a few who are close to retirement, maybe nudge them a little?

* To my wife Deborah: Santa, I'll take care of this one.

Chris is the general manager/editor for the Greene County Daily World. He can be reached by email at cpruett79@gmail.com or by telephone at 847-4487.