On Wednesday, as members of the Edgewood Choraliers performed and interacted with the students — some in wheelchairs, others wearing protective head gear — Kristanoff grinned and fought back tears. Kristanoff, now retired, was making his first appearance at the event in several years.
He was asked what makes him the proudest.
“It’s hard to talk,” he said, his eyes welling.
Then he added: “This is what Christmas is all about. This is the best present this guy could ever ask for.”
More than 200 students from Middletown, Monroe, Madison and Edgewood schools packed the VFW social center as they stood in line to meet Santa Claus, have their faces painted by volunteers, danced and sang with the choraliers and ate lunch provided by the McDonald’s on Verity Parkway.
It was organized chaos, said Cathy Howell, a community volunteer. She said the event is successful because of the support of the community, the volunteers and financial assistance from General Electric, Kohl’s in Middletown, First Financial Bank, Monroe’s police department and Miami University Middletown.
Kristanoff said he was most impressed by the way the choraliers interacted with the students and allowed them to participate during their choreographed routines.
Hannah Moore, 17, a senior at Edgewood, said she looks forward to Christmas For All every year because the singers get an opportunity to build relationships with their audience.
“They are just so thankful despite their circumstances,” Moore said. “They’re just having a good time, and it’s great to bring smiles to their faces.”
Kevin Booker’s son, Xavier Johnston, 16, is a student at Middletown High School. His son has cerebral palsy, but he’s no different than other children. He wants to have fun, meet Santa and make friends.
“They’re all kids at heart,” Booker said after his son sat on Santa’s lap.
Anne Mayer, social center manager at the VFW, makes it a point every year to volunteer at the event. She smiled as she looked out over the room.
“These kids,” she said, “just look at their faces. They are so happy. This is the start and the best part of the Christmas season.”
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