Stories from this Author

Susan Stafford Kelly

Susan Stafford Kelly was raised in Rutherfordton. She attended UNC-Chapel Hill and earned a Master of Fine Arts from Warren Wilson College. She is the author of Carolina Classics, a collection of essays that have appeared in Our State, and five novels: How Close We Come, Even Now, The Last of Something, Now You Know, and By Accident. Susan has three grown children and lives in Greensboro with her husband, Sterling.

Santa’s Helpers: Santa Al

Twenty-five years of Santa-ing led Al Capehart to write a book about his Santa Claus adventures.

by Susan Stafford Kelly

Santa’s Helpers: The Certified Santa

With an Advanced Master's Degree in Santa Clausology, Jac Grimes is the real deal when it comes to Santa Claus.

by Susan Stafford Kelly

Santa’s Helpers: Colonel Claus

Some Santas prefer to be dressed all in fur, but Jim Dyer chooses camouflage.

by Susan Stafford Kelly

Santa’s Helpers: The Giving St. Nick

Sam Simmons and his wife, Julia — the perfect Santa and Mrs. Claus duo — are dedicated to giving back to the children in their community.

by Susan Stafford Kelly

Santa’s Helpers: Ho Ho Ho, Look Out Below

Travis Weil doesn't need a sleigh — this Santa uses ropes and a harness to rappel down Chimney Rock.

by Susan Stafford Kelly

Santa’s Helpers: The Happiest Santa

For Warren Keyes, making sure people are happy — children and parents alike — is his No. 1 goal.

by Susan Stafford Kelly

Santa’s Helpers: Kringle at Law

Ron Campbell may have had a successful legal career, but for the past 52 years, his true calling has been being Santa Claus.

by Susan Stafford Kelly

Santa’s Helpers: Santa of the Long Leaf Pine

Cliff Snider — aka Cliff Kringle — just wants to be the best Santa he can be.

by Susan Stafford Kelly

Still Standing

For as long as they’ve stood, barns have been the silent, sturdy witnesses to history and hard work — along with a lot of life and love.

by Susan Stafford Kelly

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