Ask the Experts

With the countdown closing in on Christmas, the Tri-Parish Times set out to find the real reason for the season. Who better to get the inside scoop from than the experts, a group of first graders at South Thibodaux Elementary School.

The youngsters have some pretty interesting things to say about the holiday. Many of them have prepared for Saint Nick’s arrival on Dec. 25 by hanging their Christmas stockings and decorating their Christmas tree. For instance, when asked were they on the naughty or nice list the student all chimed in n “Nice.” All in all, the students have a pretty good idea what the special holiday means.

What is the true meaning of Christmas?

“I love Christmas very much, it is a good holiday where my mom and dad don’t have to go to work.” Kenyori Jackson

“Christmas is a special time to spend with your family n even if you don’t have presents, but it is nice to have them.” Makena Terrell

What is Santa’s address?

“The address is 100 Santa Claus Lane; Candy, North Pole.” Shermayya James

What is Santa’s phone number?

“The telephone number is 800-2423.” Brianna Hatley

What his favorite Christmas carol?

“I like to sing Jingle Bells.” Amanda Clause

“My favorite song is Rudolph the Red Nose Reindeer.” Tana Curry

What is your favorite holiday tradition?

“Our whole family likes to decorate the Christmas tree.” Kamron Duplass

“My family likes to decorate the tree and everybody helps n four kids, a mommy and a daddy.” Caitlynn Adams

What things get kids on the naughty list?

“If you are bad you get put on the naughty list.” Derrick Sullivan

“Fighting with your brother and sister will get you on the naughty list.” Madison West

“Punching and kicking people in class will surely get you on the naughty list or get your card turned [a practice South Thibodaux Elementary teachers use] n either one is bad.” Lyndon Naquin

Do you know anyone on the naughty list?

“Yeah, someone in Mrs. Bychurch’s class whose name starts with an ‘N’.” Zachary Boudreaux

“Yes, my brother is on the naughty list because he interrupts people when they talk.” Jamie Gonzales

Have you made your Christmas list?

“Yes, it’s very long.” Michael Holy Jr.

Yes, it’s very small I only want two things.” Daven Hymel

What do you want for Christmas?

“I want a dirt bike with a uniform for Christmas.” Daven Hymel

“I want lots of Barbie dolls and a motorbike for Christmas.” Claudia Harris

“I want a Hot Wheeler.” Ireonna Carter

“I want the Bratz kids.” Carrin Volquardts

How much do you spend on Christmas gifts?

“I spent about $10 on Christmas every year.” Elyasia Joseph

“I spent $100,000 on Christmas this year because I wanted every thing.” Zalayar Spurlock

What do elves look like?

“Elves have pointy shoes, green outfits and long ears.” Chase King

“Elves are just like humans, how do you look?” Markeisha Londo

How do you get an elf’s job?

“Have to be 3 feet tall to be an elf.” Shelby Phelps Jr.

“You have to be a hard worker who is willing to make all the toys.” Kenyori Jackson

What does Santa look like?

“Santa is fat with a long white beard and he wears a red suit with white fur around it.” Caroline Richard

“Santa has a long beard, red suit, a bit tummy, and he gives us presents.” Hector Plata

How does Santa get in the house without a chimney?

“Santa gets into the house when you don’t have a chimney because he uses the magic key.” Carson Hebert

“Santa Claus lets up your window and climbs in if you don’t have a chimney.” Keshawn James

Have you ever seen or heard Santa making his rounds?

“Yes, twice I saw Santa Claus on my neighbor’s roof, and I saw him fly away.” Keshawn James

“No, because he is quiet.” Kamron Duplass

How does Santa fly his sleigh?

“Santa flies his sleigh with reindeers and a sleigh from the North Pole, which is 99 miles away from Thibodaux.” Ashley Webster

“It takes 12 reindeer to pull Santa’s sleigh because he is so fat.” Clint Ordoyne

“Santa needs ice on the roof to fly his magic sleigh.” Dontrell Londo

“Santa flies his sleigh with reindeers.” Nyla Davis

Who’s your favorite reindeer and why?

“Rudolph, because he leads the way with his red nose.” Tana Curry

“Dasher, because he is faster than the other reindeers.” Ja’quan Wagner

What is the best snack for Santa?

“Cookies and milk.” Adrienne Talbot

“Cookies and water.” Keiona Lacy

Does he get sick of cookies?

“No, because he only eats them once a year.” Havannte Phillips

“No, because he loves cookies that’s how he stays fat.” Chelsey Bergeron

“No, because cookies are his favorite food.” Austin Hebert

Is there really a Grinch?

“No, there is not a Grinch that can steal Christmas.” Paul Lobre III

“Yes, there is a mean Grinch.” Dekia Woods

“No, there is no such thing as a Grinch and he can’t steal Christmas.” Jermorie Caldwell

Can he steal Christmas?

“Yes, the Grinch can try to steal Christmas.” Grant Adams

“Yes, the Grinch could steal your presents so watch out.” Blake Johnson

How can we prevent the Grinch from stealing Christmas?

“My dad has to catch him stealing the presents.” Taylor Porche

Does Santa ever get sick of cookies?

“No, because he eats them once a year.” Havannte Phillips

How does Santa fly?

“…with reindeers and a sleigh from the North Pole, which is 99 miles away from Thibodaux.” Ashley Webster

How much do you spend?

“I spent $100,000 on Christmas this year because I wanted everything.” Zalayar Spurlock

Why celebrate Christmas?

“Christmas is a special time to spend with your family n even if you don’t have presents, but it is nice to have them.” Makena Terrell

How does Santa get inside?

“(He) lets up your window and climbs in if you don’t have a chimney.” Keshawn James

How do you get an elf’s job?

“You have to be a hard worker who is willing to make all the toys.” Kenyori Jackson

What get’s you on Santa’s Naughty List?

“Fighting with your brother or sister…” Madison West