SYLACAUGA, Ala. – At The Arc of South Talledega County’s annual $10,000 draw down last Friday, Dec. 1, Santa Claus found himself in the final two contenders alongside Donna and Tommy Brown.
When a call came in proposing a split of the winnings, Santa, who is known locally by the alias of Bryan Taunton, decided to give back.
Santa was aware of the Browns, having read their names year after year on the nice list, and therefore willingly agreed to divide the $10,000 pot.
Santa is a staunch supporter of The Arc of South Talladega County, an organization aiding mentally developmentally challenged citizens. In fact, the man in the big red suit decided to extend his generosity further.
At The Arc’s Christmas party on Tuesday, Dec. 5, Santa presented a check, giving half of his winnings back to The Arc.
Urging others to follow suit, Santa remarked, “I do not do this to brag but to beg,” encouraging donations via the organization’s website at www.YourARC.org or via mail at 671 W 4th St., Sylacauga, AL 35150.
Santa would head back to the North Pole, but not before delivering the following message:
“I pray everyone will have a Merry Christmas, peace on earth, good will to all people, and a joyous New Year!”
