Each year, the Fifth Police District Advisory Council goes all out to treat students from a local school to a holiday extravaganza event.
This year was no exception as the lucky first grade classes from Cook-Wissahickon were given the royal treatment to make this holiday season one they’ll always remember.
Community Relations Officer Damian Caggiano and his volunteer PDAC cohorts go the whole nine yards to create a magical experience at district headquarters that the VIP guests are unlikely to forget.
CW students Mursal and Bianca enjoy a couple of slices courtesy of Zesto Pizza. (Photo by Rick Cawley)
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CW students Mursal and Bianca enjoy a couple of slices courtesy of Zesto Pizza. (Photo by Rick Cawley)
They dig into their own pockets or elicit donations from local businesses to foot the bill for kid-coveted presents and delicious refreshments.
For starters, there was Dee the Magician doing what he does best.
His hilarious schtick and eye-popping wizardry brought side-spitting humor and the look of amazement to the adorable faces of the youngsters.
The 40 some students got to see an illusionary master up close, but what will probably resound in their minds the most was his over the top banter that he employs that is both irreverent and hysterical at the same time.
Unfortunately, Cotton doesn’t seem to appreciate the remarkable talents of his sidekick, Dee the Magician. (Photo by Rick Cawley)
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Unfortunately, Cotton doesn’t seem to appreciate the remarkable talents of his sidekick, Dee the Magician. (Photo by Rick Cawley)
The sparkle in their eyes and the huge smiles beaming across their faces as he provoked the youngsters into a frenzy were worth the price of admission.
With the sounds of giggles still permeating the air, the children were then whisked outside to await the arrival of the special guests from up North.
Soon enough, the sound of Ladder Company number 30’s siren could be heard making its way down the Ridge to proclaim that Santa and Mrs. Claus were on their way.
Martial Arts master Jaycee Doroba will be looking for new challenges to conquer as a 14 year old. (Submitted photo)
And just like that, there they were, waving at the students as everyone made their way back into district headquarters for the Main Event.
Once Santa and Mrs. Claus had settled in, each child patiently awaited their turn to be ushered up to the jolly pair for a photo op and a chance to cop (excuse the pun) a couple of age-appropriate gifts.
Elsa the Snow Queen, with the Claus twosome, graciously greeted each child upon receiving their gifts. (Photo by Rick Cawley)
PDAC”s Angelica Grace gifted each student in assembly line fashion to move things along after their meet and greet with the Santa and the Mrs.
Each child stashed their bounty into special holiday gift sacks where they could also store the other miscellaneous items that they had procured.
They were then greeted by none other than Elsa the Snow Queen (aka Kristen Dennison) who added her distinct touch to the already magical experience.
All this holiday excitement can sure work up an appetite.
Fortunately, Paul Papageorgion from Zesto Pizza was on hand to deliver several boxes of their savory pies for the youngsters to feast on, as well as snacks and juice boxes courtesy of our PDAC friends.
This put the exclamation point on an already A+ affair.
The 2 hour event was over before you knew it. It was then time to pack up, say goodbyes, and head back to school on the last afternoon before Christmas break.
Needless to say, the children from Melissa Rainer and Haley McCormack’s first grade classes will have fond memories of their brush with Philly’s finest and the wonderful time they had.
Fifth District Officers and the PDAC crew went the extra mile to ensure that the youngsters were made to feel like little princes and princesses during their visit. PDAC members Geoff Woolery, Maria O’Leary, Angelica Grace, Andrew Bogert, and Nancy Painter deserve a well-earned pat on the back for their generosity and commitment to the children of our community.