Neither recent health issues or retirement can keep Bob Shaughnessy from putting down his hammer.
The longtime builder is devoting his time to a project that brings Christmas magic to generations of children by building a new Santa house for the downtown square.
The Iola Area Chamber of Commerce is currently spearheading a fundraising campaign to cover the cost of materials and decorations, while Shaughnessy, the namesake of Shaughnessy Construction, is donating his labor.
Fulfilling that commitment was tested this week. Last Saturday, Shaughnessy suffered a heart attack.
Shaughnessy assures he’s up to the task.
“It didn’t do any harm to my heart,” he said Friday, brushing off the incident as seemingly trivial.
Shaughnessy said he’s spending two to three hours each day on the project and expects the new Santa house to be completed within the next couple of months, in plenty of time for this year’s Christmas festivities.
THE NEW HOUSE will match the size of the previous Santa house, using the original steel frame.
According to Shaughnessy, the floor of the old house had deteriorated beyond repair and part of one wall had rotted, making it more practical to construct an entirely new building rather than attempt extensive repairs.
The old Santa house itself isn’t going to waste, however. Shortly after the holidays, the house was moved to Shaughnessy’s where work began immediately to salvage anything that could be repurposed for the new version.
Shaughnessy has given the house a second life by converting it into a shelter for his goats.
Kelly Sigg, Chamber director, said the organization hopes to raise at least $8,000 to cover the cost of materials needed for construction, including lighting.
Some features from the previous Santa house are being reused, including the chandelier and fireplace, helping reduce overall costs.
WHEN COMPLETE, the new building will feature a gingerbread house-inspired design, giving the familiar Christmas attraction a fresh appearance.
Community members interested in supporting the project can contact, email or visit the Iola Area Chamber of Commerce. Sponsorship opportunities begin at $25, with additional tiers at $50, $100, $500 and $1,000.
The top sponsorship level, known as “Santa’s Headliner,” includes additional recognition and benefits, including participation in the Christmas parade and a commemorative ornament. Donations larger than the listed sponsorship levels also are welcome.
