Santa Claus is coming to Sonic
By Nathan Straus News Reporter

Old Saint Nick will visit Chandler's Sonic on Highway 31 December 20. Santa will stay from 4-8 pm. The event is part of the Chandler Police Department's Toy Drive.

Donna Tyndell, manager of the Sonic, said there will be rewards for bringing toys. The event will be to benefit the Chandler Police Explorers Toy Drive.

"The first 50 people to bring a new toy worth $5 or more will receive a free Sonic Burger coupon," Tyndell said.

Toys must not be wrapped.

Gene Gieger, a Santa at Sonic helper, said the event will take place on Sonic's outdoor patio.

"They're going to be giving Santa a sleigh or a wagon," Gieger said.

Gieger also said he expects a lot of people to show up and bring gifts for those in need.

"I want to make sure everybody has presents for Christmas, " Gieger said.

In addition to being able to bring toys, Gieger said generous individuals can simply donate money to the toy drive.

"Santa and his elves will see that the money gets to where it needs to go," Gieger also said.

Ron Reeves, chief of the Chandler Police Department, said every year near Christmas the Chandler Police Department embarks upon a toy drive.

"We have had boxes at Brookshire's and the dollar store," Reeves said. The Police Department has also had donation boxes at several other Chandler locations.

"This is the first year Sonic has offered to do this," Reeves said. "I hope this will be an annual thing."

Gieger said he is proud to be a part of the upcoming Santa at Sonic event.

"Every year I try to do something to help the underprivileged, " Gieger said.

Tyndell said she thought the idea up.

"I wanted to think up a way to help the Police Department's toy drive," Tyndell said. "That's why we're also offering incentive for donating."

The Chandler Sonic will put fliers on Sonic food bags to remind their customers to participate, Tyndell also said.

"I can't stand the thought of a child not having a present on Christmas morning," Tyndell said. "I love this idea. I'm all about the kids."