Santa Arrives in Style

The excitement had been building all during the week as parents and children were waiting for the arrival of Santa and Mrs. Claus aboard their shiny red ride in the sky, escorted by none other than Police Chief Tracy Frazzano. She jokingly called it “Marco P.D. Air One,” and let Santa know that was on the top of her wish list.

The approach to the Mackle Park landing zone was lined with children anxiously awaiting the special guests arrival and they didn’t have to wait long - a few minutes after 10:00 AM the first voices cracked with excitement as the inbound aircraft was spotted by several youngsters who shouted with excitement, “Here he comes. I see him!”

After a little circling around the field and adjusting for wind, the Robinson R44 helicopter put down with precision on the soccer field without a hitch and to great applause by the excited children and some very pleased parents.

Parks Director Samantha Malloy and Christmas Island Style Director Wanda Burson beamed with delight as they watched the flawless touchdown and cheers from the many children who flooded the field to welcome Santa and Mrs. Claus.

Ms. Malloy’s staff had a wonderful welcome planned for the families who spent the next couple of hours enjoying the hospitality of the Parks and Recreation Department, but not before parents and children would have their pictures taken by the big shiny Robinson R44 Helicopter. 

Santa made his way into the Mackle Park Community Center as staff and volunteers enjoyed entertaining them over the next two hours. The city’s fire and police personnel ensured everything was safe for the liftoff of Santa’s ride back north.