On Dec. 9 from 7:30 to 10 a.m., The Magnolia Grill hosts this fundraiser, with all proceeds and gratuities going to the Empty Stocking Fund.

By Sharon Dooley | Daily News Contributing Writer

Pancakes with Santa is more than just a community tradition for Magnolia Grill owners Tom and Peggy Rice; it has grown into a personal family tradition.

“Our daughter will be here and the grandbabies,” Tom Rice said. “Mrs. Rice will be here and our staff.

“This is a way to give to the community,” he added.

On Dec. 9 from 7:30 to 10 a.m., The Magnolia Grill hosts this fundraiser, with all proceeds and gratuities going to the Empty Stocking Fund.

“We’re looking for $7 this time,” Rice said, asking guests to donate this minimum amount per person for the all-you-can-eat pancakes. “We’re hoping to push more into the Empty Stocking Fund,” he added.

The Empty Stocking Fund is a community fund, facilitated by the Northwest Florida Daily News and administered by the Salvation Army Corps of Okaloosa and Walton Counties. The money remains in the area and assists people who encounter financial distress.

Along with the breakfast is an opportunity for children to sit with Santa Claus and Mrs. Claus for photos.

“Our sister-in-law Jean Starkey, she’s the one who moderates for the little ones who are afraid,” Rice said. “She looks like grandma.”

Ed Starkey reprises his role as the jolly old elf, while Dr. David Ott provides piano accompaniment.

Rice also said that the people who attend the Pancakes with Santa reflect the people who serve on the board of directors of the local Salvation Army.

“We’ve got several denominations in our Salvation Army board,” he said. “We’ve got quite a cross section of different faiths coming together to do what is in the Salvation Army motto: to do the most good.

“Our big push for Christmas is the Angel Tree program, and we partner with Catholic Charities and The Matrix (Walton County),” Rice also said. “And we work together great.

“We’ll probably serve a thousand kids in south Okaloosa County,” he added, noting that that does not include those who will benefit in north Okaloosa or Walton County.

The menu includes pancakes, sausage, coffee or juice. While a minimum $7 donation is requested, larger donations will be accepted. A Red Kettle and bell ringer will also be at the front of the Magnolia Grill, with donations accepted to the Red Kettle drive in addition to the Pancakes with Santa.

The Magnolia Grill is located at 157 Brooks St. S.E., in old Fort Walton Beach. Parking is available at the side of the restaurant and in the city lot across the street.