Darrell Greer
Northern News Services
Published Wednesday, January 9, 2008

RANKIN INLET - Hundreds of children came to the Rankin Inlet airport to meet Santa Claus and receive a treat bag as Canadian North brought its 2007 Santa Run to town this past month.

The airline has been bringing Santa to Nunavut for more than a decade.

Back row from left, Pte. Clarissa Ussak, Pte. Tracey Kanayok and Pte. Adam Ussak, and front, Pte. Darren Maneranaluk were among the cadets who volunteered to help Santa and Mrs. Claus during Canadian North's Santa Run stop in Rankin Inlet this past month. - Darrell Greer/NNSL photo

Customer services manager Randy Miller said the 2007 edition of the Santa Run went smoothly.

He said there were fewer kids than in previous years, but that was due mostly to a misconception that found its way into the community.

"I didn't get out as much advertising as I usually do, and a number of people seemed to think Santa's visit was only for kids five years or younger," said Miller.

"We do give priority to younger kids during years we have really big turnouts, because Santa only has so much time to meet with them.

"So, there may have been a perception in the community that we only wanted to see the really young kids, but all kids are welcome when Santa comes to call."

There were about 450 treat bags handed out during Santa's visit, with the leftover bags being donated to Leo Ussak elementary school.

Miller said the event goes smoothly because so many people volunteer to help with Santa's visit.

"I could never do this on my own, so I really appreciate the help I receive every year.

"The Pulaarvik Kablu Friendship Centre always sends a few people, and the cadets and Girl Guides have been very helpful over the years.

"Even Fire Chief Alan Stebbing helped out this year."

Those who came to meet Santa received an extra surprise when they realized Mrs. Claus had made the trip.

She said it was time for her to meet the kids Santa always raves about when he returns to the North Pole.

"The children in Rankin were a joy to be around," said Mrs. Claus.

"I could certainly see why my husband looks forward to coming every year.

"But, I must say, I was surprised by how cold it can be in Rankin, even for someone from the North Pole.

"I was quite chilled by the time I got inside, but it didn't take the kids long to warm my heart and I hope to see them all again next year."