by Beckett, age 9 from Little Rock, Arkansas, asks Santa about his red suit, the Arkansas River, and Little Rock Central High School’s history.
Dear Santa, my name is Beckett, and I am nine years old. I live in Little Rock, Arkansas, where my grandma says our whole city is named after one single, oddly small rock along the river.
Dear Beckett, a city named for one modest little rock is a rather charming bit of trivia, your grandma picked a truly down to earth hometown.
Santa, I have three questions.
What does Santa wear? My little sister wants to know if it is always the same red suit every single year.
It has always been my classic red suit trimmed with white fur, Beckett, along with sturdy black boots built for chimney work. Tell your little sister some traditions are simply too good to change.
My grandma says Little Rock sits right along the Arkansas River. Is that true?
It is true, Beckett, the Arkansas River winds right through your city on its way to join the Mississippi. I always follow that glimmering path to help find my way to your rooftop.
My grandma says Little Rock Central High School played a really important part in making schools fairer for everyone. Is that true?
It is true, Beckett, Little Rock Central High School became a pivotal site in the fight for school integration back in 1957, a courageous step toward fairness for all students. That kind of bravery, standing up for what is right, is exactly the spirit I hope every child carries with them.
Merry Christmas, Santa.
Your friend,
Beckett Whitfield
Little Rock, Arkansas
P.S. Will you tell my sister the suit never changes color, not even once?
Never, Beckett, red has always suited me best.
