Santa Claus came to Polk Township Volunteer Fire Company early this year, but he gave the reindeer a break and opted for a helicopter ride instead.

Organized by West End Food Pantry, "Santa is Cleared for Landing" brought Old St. Nick to the fire hall on Saturday, delivering holiday cheer to the hundreds in attendance."This is all about giving back to the community, trying to create some special memories," West End Food Pantry Director Karena Thek said. "There is a huge outpouring of community members from all walks of life, and we're just so happy to be part of it, honestly."Entertainers dressed as Frosty the Snowman, Rudolph and the Grinch entertained the crowd while they waited for Santa's arrival, with live tunes played by Dan Dechellis and Shawn Cavanaugh on bass and keyboard. DJ Sammy from Corkins Karaoke spun some holiday hits as well, keeping spirits high while Santa was in transit.Carriage rides, led by miniature horses Dash and Dusty, were a favorite attraction for kids and adults alike. Don Yurga and Dan Jensen managed the rides, free of charge, and "for the fun," as Yurga said."It was good, but it was a little slow when the horses got tired," 8-year-old Steven Walter said. "But it was very fun."Kids were able to make their own "reindeer food," mixing up snack foods, cereal and other treats. Volunteers doled out hot dogs, Christmas cookies, and hot chocolate inside the hall throughout the event.Anticipation hit a fever pitch just a bit after 2 p.m., when Hi-Tech Helicopters pilot Steig Sung delivered Santa to an eager crowd that lined the lot adjacent to the landing field."I did it to give back to the community," said Hi-Tech Helicopter owner John Kerrick, who arranged the ride for free. "Karena called me to do this for the kids, and I said, 'I'm in.' She's quite a leader.""It was windy and really cool," 8-year-old Diane Fishon said after Santa touched down. "He was waving!"After situating himself in the hall, Father Christmas sat the excited kids in his lap to hear requests - and, of course, to take some holiday pictures for the parents. Santa had a hectic shift, with the line continually stretching out the doors and into the lot, but everyone had a festive time."It was a fabulous event," parent Jessica Scheffner said. "It was great to have all these families and children, and it was all free to enjoy. It's great to see the pantry, the fire company and everyone coming together for the community."