From the LaFollette Press

LAFOLLETTE, Tenn. (Dec. 23, 2015) -- Santa Claus isn’t coming to town on Christmas Eve. In fact, he’s been here for some time now.

Santa sightings in Campbell County have increased in the last five to six years since Caryville resident Eric Schmitt-Matzen grew a beard and suited up.

“This doesn’t just grow overnight,” he says, laughing and stroking his beard, which he bleaches, along with his hair and eyebrows to achieve his signature Santa look.

Schmitt-Matzen got into the Santa gig when he was asked to play Santa at his church — Jacksboro United Methodist.

See complete story in the LaFollette Press