KANSAS CITY, Mo.- Plumbers & Gasfitters Local 8 hosted its annual “Santa Day” for its members from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 6 at its location, 5950 Manchester Trafficway.
A tradition, which event organizers shared has continued for the past 30 years, drew a regularly anticipated 700 to 900 guests that encompassed a meet and greet with Santa and his elf, a meal and a gift provided courtesy of Plumbers & Gasfitters Local 8.
“Just seeing the members’ kids have a good time and get a toy, it’s very memorable for members’ kids,” Plumbers & Gasfitters Local 8 Business Manager Matt Harris shared, Saturday when asked his favorite aspect of the event.
Food preparation for Santa Day began the Monday before the event with ingredient shopping, while cooking occurred on Tuesday, Dec. 2, Harris said, to make around 50 gallons of Chili and 1200 hot dogs. Among other food available for guests on Saturday included popcorn, cookies and nachos.
A team of 12 to 13 volunteers who worked to make the over-three-hour holiday event possible, ensured attendees left with a toy, which the union organization provided for all children ages 10 and under, as well as a photo with Santa and his elf.
Julia Williams — a Kansas City native — is a reporter and digital producer for The Labor Beacon. A University of Missouri School of Journalism alumna, she previously served as the editor-in-chief of The Northeast News before joining The Labor Beacon staff.
Williams’s grandfather was a Claycomo Ford Motor Company retiree and avid UAW Local 249 supporter, allowing her to understand the union difference from a young age.
In her free time, Williams enjoys spending time with her family, traveling to see her friends and hanging out at home with her cat, Greta. She loves a good cup of coffee, seeing local, live music and shopping secondhand. With a passion for storytelling, she hopes to bring her knowledge of journalistic integrity to the Kansas City union community — giving union and labor workers a voice, while holding people in powerful positions accountable.
