MOUNT VERNON — Vandals following in the Grinch’s footsteps tried to put a damper on the holiday spirit when they broke into Santa’s house on Public Square.
Heather Brayshaw, board president for Main Street Mount Vernon, told KnoxPages.com in an email that it was discovered on Friday that the door to Santa’s house was kicked in. The city’s parks department repaired the damage.
When Carrie Hyman, MSMV manager, met Santa for his Saturday shift, they realized that about $50 worth of toys and some candy canes had been taken.
“It’s disappointing that there are people out there who would steal the gifts set aside for the children visiting Santa, but maybe they had their reasons,” wrote Brayshaw. “There is still goodness in the world, though. The Mount Vernon Police Department took up a collection and donated funds to help us replace the toys. Their kind gesture is what the spirit of the season is about, and we are very appreciative for their contribution.”
Santa will be in his house each Saturday, including Christmas Eve Day, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
