Just waiting to get into some of the hundreds of packages that were wrapped for the third annual children's Christmas party in Strong Saturday, are James Haynes of Strong, Jill Young of Oakland and Lilly Kennedy of Strong. (Laura Dunham photo) STRONG — Last year over 200 youngsters attended the second annual Strong Christmas Party at the Foster Memorial Building. This year, Mary White and her "small army" of volunteers were expecting and prepared for 300.

White said that last summer over $2,100 was raised from a lawn sale to benefit the community. Besides hundreds of gifts wrapped (by those volunteers) so that each child could have two, many of the women of the community had made hats, scarves and mittens so that each child could go to a huge table and pick out the design and color they wanted. There was also a large table of favorite books, stuffed animals and of course, lots of cookies, hot popped corn and punch.

"There are many special needs children in town who were on hand to see Santa and enjoy the day. Children came from as far away as Farmington and Jay. It makes no difference where they came from, we just want to make a child happy for the day," said White.

Seven-week-old Chase Ross of Strong visits Santa for the first time at the third annual Strong Christmas Party held at the Foster Memorial Hall. (Laura Dunham photo) Town manager Perry Ellsworth of Rangeley, who lives in Strong, was so impressed with the party for the children, he congratulated White for all she and her volunteers do for the community. Maine State Representative Tom Saviello was on hand for the party, commending White and her volunteers for what they do for all the children in the community. White however said that Saviello is the best... "When we need help he is there."

Of course, excitement rang out as the children heard the bells on the stage knowing that Santa was soon to arrive and indeed he did to the delight of the youngsters, who made a long line waiting to have a chance to tell Santa just what they wanted him to bring them.

White said they will be preparing for next year's party and urges anyone who may have a lawn or garage sale after April and have leftover items to call her at 684- 2166 and she will pick them up.