Santa Claus is coming to town! To conclude the Christmas parade on Dec. 2, Santa Claus rode through the streets of downtown Altoona. He rode in on a float from the Glendale Lake Snowmobile Club following many other floats from different organizations throughout Altoona and surrounding areas.
Winter Wonderland
Mountain Echo staffers share their Holiday activities.
More to Discover
About the Contributors
Madison Aboud, Editor – in – Chief
My name is Madison Aboud, and this is my fourth year on the Mountain Echo staff. I am honored to serve as Editor in Chief for the 2025 – 2026 school year. In 2023, I did an Editorial Leadership training through CSPA (Columbia Scholastic Press Association). In July 2024, I served as a National Youth Correspondent for the Washington Journalism and Media Conference (WJMC) at George Mason University. When I’m not focused on the Mountain Echo, you can find me reading, spending time with friends and family or hanging out with my dogs. After I graduate, I plan to major in English and minor in Communications. My goal this year is to represent our student body accurately and fairly.
Addisen McDonald, Reporter
My name is Addisen McDonald, and I’m a first year staff member on the Mountain Echo. Along with newspaper, I’m also a third year member of the Horseshoe yearbook staff in the position of design editor. Outside of the journalism classroom, I spend my time binge watching “Greys Anatomy,” collecting fun sunglasses and practicing baton. This school year I was given the opportunity to be the AAHS feature twirler, which is leading me to achieve my dream goal of becoming a crimsonette at the University of Alabama. I’m so excited to be on staff this year and, as always, roll tide.
Makenzie Closson, Associate Editor
My name is Makenzie Closson. I am a second year member of the Mountain Echo and Horseshoe yearbook staffs. Last year, I became a PSPA finalist and even won first in the state for yearbook copy writing. Besides just being involved in the publications, I’m a competitive dancer. I also enjoy playing my guitar, creating art and film making. After high school, I plan to attend a film school to become a director.
Ryan Longstreth, Reporter
My name is Ryan Longstreth, and I’m a senior. This is my second year on the Mountain Echo staff! I’ve always loved creative writing and have been writing since I was a kid. I play snare drum in the marching band and am a percussionist in the wind ensemble and symphonic orchestra. I’m also a member of the drama club, vocal ensemble and Scholastic Scrimmage quiz bowl team. After high school, I wish to attend Pennsylvania State University at the Eberly College of Science in order to pursue a master’s degree in chemistry. I love all kinds of music, ranging from showtunes to classic rock. When I’m not busy with school, I enjoy I enjoy spending time with my friends, playing video games and watching movies. I’m happy to be able to be able to write for the Mountain Echo for another year!