Monday, February 16, 2026
37.0°F

Santa calling

HAILEY HILL | Hagadone News Network | UPDATED 1 year, 1 month AGO
by HAILEY HILL
Staff Writer | December 23, 2024 1:09 AM

RATHDRUM — The Connolley children had big questions for Santa when he called them Dec. 17.

“Can you FaceTime?” 7-year-old Jude asked, just about as soon as the children heard that iconic "ho ho ho" over the phone.

Since 2015, Rathdrum Parks and Recreation has been firing up a special hotline to connect families to the big man himself through phone calls.

The hotline is an opportunity for a little extra Christmas magic, especially for families who can't visit Santa in person during his appearances in town.

This year Jude, his twin sister, Hazel, and Scarlett, 11, got the call as they sat in front of their family Christmas tree, donning pajamas featuring their dog, Millie, in a Santa hat.

The children made their Christmas requests during the call: Scarlett asked for an electric scooter and slime, Hazel wanted aerial silks and Jude hoped to find a go-kart under the tree on Christmas morning.

“I don’t know if it’ll fit in my sleigh, but with a little bit of Christmas magic I think it could fit,” Santa laughed.

The Connolley children also confirmed that they did, in fact, make it on the Nice List.

“I’m super proud of you guys for doing good in school,” Santa told the kids. “We will definitely be stopping by your house."

Now, the countdown is on until Christmas morning.

“I’m always the one who’s most excited,” Scarlett said.

ARTICLES BY HAILEY HILL

Trouette appealing town hall verdict
February 14, 2026 1:07 a.m.

Trouette appealing town hall verdict

Seeks return of security company license

Security company owner Paul Trouette is appealing the revocation of his security agency and security agent licenses following his December conviction on two counts of battery and violations related to security agent uniform and duty requirements, all misdemeanors.

Idaho's first Crunch Fitness to open in Coeur d'Alene
February 15, 2026 1:05 a.m.

Idaho's first Crunch Fitness to open in Coeur d'Alene

Crunch Fitness is coming to Coeur d'Alene.

Valentine's preparations underway in Coeur d'Alene
February 13, 2026 1:08 a.m.

Valentine's preparations underway in Coeur d'Alene

With Valentine’s Day less than 48 hours away, Hansen’s Florist and Gifts was bursting with chocolates, stuffed animals, balloons, and flowers. Lots and lots of flowers.