SPECIAL TO THE SIGNAL

Hundreds of kids from the Fort Deposit area flooded the community park on Dec. 18 for a visit from Sammie Bailey, the owner of BJ Auto Sales, who has been a Santa-like figure for the past six years by literally giving out thousands of dollars around Christmas time.

This year, Sammie gave out $4,000 to the kids, and that is only part of the money he donates to worthy causes each year.

“I know how hard it was when I was growing up and hardly had an extra pair of shoes or clothing to wear, and I said if I ever got in a position where I could help others that I would,” Bailey said.

“I enjoy giving back to the community and don’t turn away anyone asking for donations.  I just do this from the goodness of my heart,” Bailey added.

Sammie and his BJ Auto Sales staff wish everyone a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.