Photography by Tina in Merrill will offer professional portraits with Santa Claus for the fourth consecutive year. Photographer, Tina L. Scott, says every child who believes deserves a special remembrance with Mr. Claus, and she has been in contact with the North Pole to confirm Santa’s visit to her studio on Sunday, Dec. 8.
Old St. Nicholas will be at Photography by Tina, 607 N. Cleveland St., in Merrill, from noon to 4 p.m. on Dec. 8.  The cost is $20 and includes a 5×7” portrait with Santa, hot chocolate and Christmas cookies complements of Lori Radke, writing letters to Santa, story time and fun with the elves, and a candy cane.  Photography by Tina will have a special mailbox for Santa’s letters, and Santa will take them back to the North Pole to read at the end of the day. Four of Santa’s elves will be on hand to help out with the festivities. Free coffee will be provided for the grown-ups.
New this year, the studio will also be conducting a fundraiser for the Children’s Miracle Network in conjunction with the event. Handcrafted oak crosses will be on display and are a gift to anyone who makes a donation to the Children’s Miracle Network at the event, Scott says.  
“These crosses would make a beautiful gift for Christmas or any occasion,” she adds. “My husband, Mark, made the crosses to raise funds for CMN in thanks for the wonderful care our granddaughter, Lily, received at St. Joseph’s Children’s Hospital in Marshfield earlier this year. It’s our way of giving something back.”
Also new this year, local recording artist, Debbie Merkel, will be performing Christmas music at this year’s event. Merkel’s CDs will be available for purchase for gift-giving, and Paparazzi Jewelry ($5 and less) will also be available for purchase and makes great stocking stuffers, Scott says.
Scott said no appointments are necessary. Simply arrive at the studio on Sunday, Dec. 8, between noon and 4 p.m. The studio is located on the corner of East Seventh and North Cleveland Streets in Merrill.
Every child must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. If you have any questions, you can reach Tina at the studio by calling 715-212-0767.