Manatee sheriff to hold 'Flight to the North Pole' Thursday

MANATEE -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office will hold its 30th annual "Flight to the North Pole" program from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Thursday at the Sarasota/Bradenton Airport Fire Department.

The event is described as a very special day for terminally ill children in the community.

"The foundation for this program stated in 1985 by a number of Eastern Airline flight attendants," a release states. "Today, the Manatee County Sheriff's Office, Sarasota/Bradenton Airport Fire Department, local businesses and volunteers from several agencies assist in this event."

According to a release, clowns will entertain the children with balloons and typical clown antics and Home Depot employees will provide a wood craft work station. A private school chorus is also set to provide seasonal songs to cheer the children and their families while awaiting the arrival of Santa Claus. There will also be food from McDonalds, Texas Roadhouse, Jimmy John's, Firehouse Subs and Gio's.

"Inside the fire station is a Santa's workshop where the children can sit with Mr. and Mrs. Santa Claus and tell them of their wish list and receive their bags fill with presents," a release states. "This is a memorable event not only for the children, but also for their families and everyone involved."

Those wanting to contribute a monetary donation can mail it to:

Flight to the North Pole Inc.

600 301 Blvd. West

Suite 202

Bradenton 34205

For more information on the event, call Sidney Ettedgui of the Manatee County Sheriff's Office at 941-747-3011 X2581.

This story was originally published December 8, 2015 at 2:53 PM with the headline "Manatee sheriff to hold 'Flight to the North Pole' Thursday ."