Once again, OLAX (Organizacion de Latinx) organized a fun-filled event to welcome Santa to the Circle on Sunday, December 15.

The tall green grinch (with a striking resemblance to Alexis Hernandez) lurking in the background was not able to dampen the excitement nor the screams of the dozens of children waiting to greet him.

Arriving in his CalFire "sleigh", Santa made his way to the big white chair and began inviting children to his side to hear their gift requests and offer them a candy cane and little stuffed animal.

Children then found their way to the "toy store" to choose a very nice item, compliments of generous Borregans, then on their way to a cup of hot chocolate and cookies. With holiday music playing in the background and the squeals of children's laughter piercing the air, the mood was festive and clearly magical.

Santa (with a striking resemblance to Okie McNatt) was not the only excitement in the Circle that evening. Prior to the delivery of Santa, folks were entertained by the effervescent Elementary ASES Dance Group under the excellent direction of Rocio Navarro.

Following the young ones, came local Ballet Folklorico, known as Flores del Desierto or Flowers of the Desert. Under the direction of founder and teacher, Mary Paz, these talented young ladies wowed us with their twirls and colorful skirts and trills. Their special dance shoes were a gift from OLAX, whose goal is to celebrate and recognize the vibrant Latinx culture in our village.

OLAX officers Israel Ochoa, Esmeralda Garcia, Alicia Ramirez, Carmen Ochoa and Nidia Meza thank the public for their generous donations for this event and invite your support of their 501c3. Donations can be made to "Organizacion de Latinx" and sent to PO Box 2419, Borrego Springs, CA 92004.