Image courtesy of Sue Nugent.
Santa Claus paid a visit to residents at Kingston Residence of Vermilion on Christmas Eve, bringing music, cookies and holiday cheer to the community’s common area.
Vermilion resident Mark Dewey, dressed as Santa Claus, was joined by Sue Nugent, serving as Santa’s helper, as they visited with residents around 2 p.m. Residents gathered together to enjoy cookies, beverages and Christmas carols, with every resident out participating in the celebration.
Dewey said this year marked the second time he has brought Santa to Kingston on Christmas Eve. The tradition began last year, when his mother was staying there. Following her recent passing, Dewey said he decided he would continue the visit each Christmas.
“She saw me once,” Dewey said, referring to his mother. “I plan on doing it every year now. They have such good residents and such an amazing staff.”
Nugent said the visit reflected the kind of community Vermilion strives to be.
“Vermilion is full of kindness and goodness, and Mark Dewey reflects that,” Nugent said. “For several years, he was a familiar face at Kingston while spending time with his mother. The staff truly care for each resident, and it shows. We had a great time at the Kingston holiday party.”
According to Katy Reagan, activities director at Kingston of Vermilion, the Christmas Eve gathering is an annual tradition focused on bringing residents together.
“We’re small here, so we’re very homey,” Reagan said. “We’re all very much a family, and they really look forward to this every year.”
Staff members organize the celebration as a shared holiday event, bringing residents together in the common area rather than celebrating quietly in individual rooms.
As carols played and Santa made his rounds, the afternoon reflected a simple holiday moment centered on togetherness, remembrance and community.
About the Author
