by Destiny, age 9 from Newark, New Jersey, asks Santa about the famous cover, the Passaic River, and New Jersey’s musical heritage.
Dear Santa, my name is Destiny, and I am nine years old. I live in Newark, New Jersey, where my dad says one of the busiest airports on the whole East Coast sits right in our own city.
Dear Destiny, an airport that busy makes for one of the noisiest, liveliest neighbors on my whole route, your dad picked a truly bustling hometown.
Santa, I have three questions.
Does Bruce Springsteen sing ‘Santa Claus Is Comin’ to Town’? My uncle plays it every single Christmas Eve on repeat.
He does, Destiny, that particular musician has a beloved live recording of the classic song, and your uncle has excellent taste in Christmas Eve music. New Jersey has certainly given the world some wonderful voices.
My dad says Newark sits along the Passaic River. Is that true?
It is true, Destiny, the Passaic River flows right past your city on its way to Newark Bay. I always follow that glimmering path to help find my way to your rooftop.
My dad says a lot of famous musicians, including that one, have strong roots right here in New Jersey. Is that true?
It is true, Destiny, New Jersey has produced an impressive number of influential musicians over the years, proud of its homegrown talent. That kind of creative legacy is really something worth celebrating, Christmas and every day after.
Merry Christmas, Santa.
Your friend,
Destiny Coleman
Newark, New Jersey
P.S. Will you play that song for the elves this year too?
Already on the workshop playlist, Destiny, it has become a bit of a tradition.
