by Emmett, age 8 from Sacramento, California, asks Santa about his famous greeting, the city’s two rivers, and the California Gold Rush.
Dear Santa, my name is Emmett, and I am eight years old. I live in Sacramento, California, where my dad says gold was first discovered nearby, starting a huge rush of people a long, long time ago.
Dear Emmett, a city connected to that much excitement and history deserves a very appreciative flyover, your dad picked a truly golden hometown.
Santa, I have three questions.
Does Santa say ‘Ho Ho Ho’? My little sister practices saying it every single day this month.
I certainly do, Emmett, a good hearty Ho Ho Ho has been part of my greeting for as long as I can remember. Tell your little sister her practice is paying off beautifully.
My dad says Sacramento sits where two rivers meet, the Sacramento and the American. Is that true?
It is true, Emmett, the Sacramento and American Rivers join right at your city, an important meeting point for centuries. I always follow that watery junction to help find my way to your rooftop.
My dad says gold was discovered near Sacramento, starting a huge rush of people moving to California. Is that true?
It is true, Emmett, the California Gold Rush began nearby in 1848, drawing people from all over the world hoping for a fresh start. That kind of hopeful, adventurous spirit still shapes your state’s story today.
Merry Christmas, Santa.
Your friend,
Emmett Castillo
Sacramento, California
P.S. Will you practice with my sister if you visit early?
Happily, Emmett, a good Ho Ho Ho always benefits from a little coaching.
