GENERATIONS: An interview with Santa Santa started coming to the Paul Bunyan Mall when Bob Smith invited him. He said he loves being there, especially when kids run up, jump on his lap, hug him and say, “I love you, Santa.” Written By: Sue Bruns, Special to the Pioneer | 7:35 am, Dec. 23, 2020 × Santa Claus wears a mask and visor while chatting with children behind a plexiglass divider for their visits at the Paul Bunyan Mall. (Sue Bruns / Special to the Pioneer) In sharing stories about seniors for the past two years, I’ve failed to interview a very well-known and well-loved individual. So, the other day, I called Santa.