Letters to Santa: SILMG will help Santa connect with area children

SOUTHERN ILLINOIS - Nothing has been "normal" about life since the COVID-19 pandemic hit, closing down businesses, schools, and organizations.

With many things, including learning, theater, and "live" entertainment going to a virtual or digital format, it's no surprise that the jolly old elf is taking precautions, as well.

The publications of the Southern Illinois LOCAL Media Group are helping Santa stay safe this holiday season but collecting his letters digitally.

"In this pandemic year that's been so disruptive to the normalcy of our kids' education, actually to their very lives, we wanted to do something that would be fun for them," said Devan Vaughn, Director of Advertising for Southern Illinois LOCAL Media Group. "Giving them a chance to have their letter in print, to see their name in the newspaper, is something we hope will bring some holiday cheer."

We are looking for letters from kids aged 3-10. Letters should be emailed to submissions@localsouthernnews.com.

Please include the child's letter, full name, and your hometown.

The first 50 letters received for each publication will be printed the week of Dec. 7.

The deadline for submission is Monday, Nov. 30, at 5 p.m.