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Annual Party Is Gift Of Hope

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By VALERIE KALFRIN, The Tampa Tribune

Published: December 22, 2007

TAMPA - Johnny Campbell stepped into Santa's black boots and red suit Friday, gearing up for his debut before about 500 eager faces.

The 6-foot-2-inch, 220-pound retired Tampa police officer had never served as St. Nick, but police Maj. Sophia Teague told him he'd be great.

"The kids don't know who he is, so they'll have to believe he's Santa Claus," she said.

Campbell, 48, was one of many who worked to ensure the annual Christmas party at the Resources In Community Hope House at 8218 N. Marks St. in Sulphur Springs was a success. The preparations started weeks ago, with organizers purchasing hundreds of hamburgers, hot dogs, chips and cupcakes.

Officer Debbie Boles, who supervises the community outreach center, and elves such as Tampa International Airport director Louis Miller, shopped for and wrapped 417 presents and 300 teddy bears, each tagged with the name of a neighborhood child.

The officers and helpers struggled to keep the crowd of eager children at bay once Santa appeared, but the goodwill lasts throughout the year.

"A lot of these kids now will actually say hello to us," Officer Mike Flynn said.

Five-year-old Serenity Morales tore into the Littlest Pet Shop play set she received. Her brother, Noah, 6, wanted to save opening his until later. He liked the candy cane and crocheted stocking a volunteer gave him.

"I'll put this on my clubhouse," he said.

Reporter Valerie Kalfrin can be reached at (813) 259-7800 or vkalfrin@tampatrib.com.

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