Preschoolers and parents crowded every gingerbreadb-decorated nook and balloon-brightened cranny of Gorton Community Center in Lake Forest last weekend. After the last doughnut was devoured, the last carol sung, the last wish whispered into Santa`s beard and the last rosy cheek brushed with a bright star or snowman, the Lake Forest-Lake Bluff Junior Women`s Club members found that their popular annual Breakfast with Santa fundraiser had topped the 6-year-old event`s past attendance figures at a record-breaking 500 people.
”We`re so pleased with the record number. And everyone seemed to be having a good time,” said fundraising director Melissa Wein of Lake Bluff.
”Everything was donated so all the money can go to charity.”
The power breakfast`s tickets, raffle, bakery table and photo ops raised about $5,000. Primarily divided in the late spring between two women`s and children`s causes, the money goes into a fundraising pot that typically totals $12,000 by April, said club president Penelope Medlock of Lake Forest. ”We are considering donating a portion of the proceeds to a third charity. The money has gone mainly to PADS (Public Action to Deliver Shelter) and A Safe Place the past three years,” Medlock said.
But fun was also as important as fundraising. ”Did you hear the gasps in the auditorium (before the sing-along) when Santa walked in? It was marvelous,” Medlock said. Once around the room, then with a jolly ho-ho and a broad wave, Santa left for his first of two lap-sitting sessions down the hall.
While half the toddlers caroled with music educator Pam Ogilvie in the auditorium during the first show, scores of families lined the community room for a picture with Santa. Chrissy Brogi, 7, of Deerfield was smitten by Disney`s newest holiday release. ”I want an Aladdin boy. And also an Aladdin girl, and an Aladdin … ,” Chrissy said, trying to think of other characters.
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After three turns at the face-painting table, Kaitlin Flaherty, 6, of Lake Forest still had skin room for one more holiday spot of color. ”A Christmas tree,” said Kaitlin, pointing to her right cheek. The left one already boasted a stocking. A smiling Santa topped one hand, while a serious snowman surveyed the scenery from the other one.