Whiteville’s half century serving Santa Claus thanks honorary helper Mr. B

WHITEVILLE, NC (WWAY) — Dwight Burleson, also known as Mr. B, is one of Santa’s honorary helpers. 

Every holiday season, the man in red counts on Mr. B in preparation for Christmas, especially on days like Tuesday when Santa pays special visits to children everywhere. 

He’s been doing the job for quite some time now. Children who once sat on his knee, have children of their own now who pay him a visit. 

“In three different situations, we’ve actually had four generations sitting in here,” Santa said. 

Tuesday, Santa’s sleigh made a pit stop at ‘Opening Doors Preschool’ in Whiteville. Santa said Whiteville is one of his favorite cities. So, he had Mr. B help him find a home nearby. 

“I started coming more and staying more,” Santa said. “So, I needed somebody to kind of be a caretaker for the time that I wasn’t here. So, Dwight Burleson stepped up and he kind of took care of the house.” 

The Whiteville Santa House can be found at 113 W Smith St., although you can’t miss it, it’s like stepping into a snow globe. 

Santa said it’s the folks in Columbus and surrounding counties that make him feel right at home. He said there’s no need for a GPS when he’s got his furry friends leading the way through Southeastern N.C..

“Of course Dasher, and Dancer, and Prancer, and Vixen, and Comet, and Cupid, they’re all ready. Fat and ready to go. Putting a lot of good work into the reindeer sleigh. It’s all ready to roll.”

WWAY’s Emily Andrews even asked Santa if she made the nice list this year. He said yes. But, still he needs to check his list twice, just to make sure. 

After now 53 years of counting on Mr. B for help in Whiteville, Santa said he has learned a few things along the way and wants to let you in on one of the real reasons for the season. 

“I want you to do me some favors. I want you to be kind and good to each and everyone. If you can, help someone today and ho, ho, ho, Merry Christmas,” Santa said.