Every day, beloved crossing guard Quinton “Q” Dantry helps kids get to school safely at Muse Elementary School, located within the Canon-McMillan School District. But for the past four years, Dantry has taken on a special duty on the last day of classes before Christmas break: greeting students with Santa Claus.
“It started with my daughter who dressed as Santa Claus the first year,” Dantry explained, “and it’s gotten bigger every year.” His holiday greeting has blossomed to include members of the Muse Volunteer Fire Department, the Cecil Township Police Department, and other local first responders. They join Dantry dressed as Mrs. Claus, elves, and even Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer, merrily waving, shouting “Merry Christmas!” and handing out candy canes to excited students.
The jubilant scene—motorists honking their horns and children waving back—creates a joyful atmosphere as students travel to school. Jacque King, assistant manager of Cecil Township and the honor of donning the red suit for the first time at Muse’s celebration, shared the joy of the experience with Dantry. “It’s been great. It makes you feel good seeing everyone so happy,” said Dantry, also a retired mailman and member of the Muse Volunteer Fire Department.
Family joined Dantry for the festivities, including his daughters Kristen Yagulli, the original Santa Claus, and Megan Fleer, along with granddaughter Isabella Yagulli, who is currently a student at Muse Elementary. With large snowflakes falling around them, the lights on the fire trucks parked nearby made for a picturesque holiday celebration.
Muse Elementary School Principal Tula Dziakcommends Dantry’s endeavors: “He has brought joy to the crossing guard role, and it’s inspiring.” Parents and children alike enjoy the festive atmosphere. “I think everyone enjoys it—the adults and the kids—and the community has embraced it. The fact Mr. Dantry brings together so many people, including the fire department and the police department, as well as some local businesses, makes it a great kickoff to the Christmas break,” Dziak noted.
Meanwhile, on December 17, Jacksonville saw another heartwarming event surrounding Christmas cheer at Grove Park Elementary School. Jacksonville Jaguars defensive end Josh Hines-Allen hosted a Christmas party for ten pre-selected families, aided by his wife, Kaitlyn, and their Four One For All Foundation.
The event offered families catered dinner from True Food Kitchen, gingerbread house decorating, Christmas music provided by DJ entertainment, and the opportunity to meet Santa, along with opening gifts from their wishlists. Hines-Allen, emphasizing the spirit of giving, remarked, “I want to spread love around everywhere. There are still places we haven’t reached yet, but we’re just getting started.”
This joyful occasion marked the Four One For All Foundation’s second programming event. The Hines-Allens founded the charity this football season with the goal of aiding children and families throughout Jacksonville with various human services. Their initiative signifies the potential impact sports figures can have within their communities.
Both events, at Muse Elementary and Grove Park Elementary, epitomize the spirit of community connection and the importance of making the holiday season brighter for families. By bringing together various community members and organizations, these gatherings not only create joyful memories for children and families but also reinforce the values of kindness and togetherness during the holidays.
