Parents and children bundled up in warm coats, scarves, hats and mittens, braving the chilly weather to attend the Breakfast with Santa on Dec. 13.

Sponsored by the Citizens for Sequim Schools, the 16th annual event attracted about 500 people and raised $2,194.26 in ticket sales and donations.

"We were really pleased with the turnout considering the weather," said Sarah Bedinger, school board member and volunteer. "It was a festive event. We appreciate all the support."

Nearly 30 volunteers from Boys & Girls Clubs of the Olympic Peninsula, the Sequim School District and community served ham, scrambled eggs, waffles, orange juice and coffee to guests, encouraging children and adults to have their pictures taken with Santa.

Children lined up at the door to welcome Mr. and Mrs. Claus - also known around town as George Stuber and Char Stonebraker - as the couple arrived via fire truck.

For the first time, the breakfast was held at the Sequim High School cafeteria

rather than the Guy Cole Convention Center at Carrie Blake Park and it probably will be held at the school again in 2009, according to Bedinger.