When Jack Marshall first donned the white gloves to spread Christmas cheer, the year was 1978. The hot gift was the Atari 2600 video game console that retailed for $199, what would be upward of $750 in today’s dollars.
The holidays have never been about the toys or overwhelming commercialism for Marshall, who’s celebrating nearly four decades playing Santa Claus this year. When so many parents feel the burden of trying to put a smile on their kid’s face, Marshall just wants to spread unconditional love.
He gives that gift to children and in return, their love carries him through the year. He explained the draw of the red suit while “santa-ing” at the Christmas senior lunch at the Douglas Senior Center.
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