Santa didn’t forget the residents at the Peoria County Animal Shelter this year.  The cats and canines there had their own holiday party on Dec. 22 and opened presents — special gifts of food, toys and treats. The furry friends were only too excited to see what Santa Claus had left for them. (Photos courtesy of the Peoria Co. Animal Protection)

—-   Santa remembers his friends at the Peoria shelter . —-