Santa's sleigh is coming

On December 20, aircraft piloted by either Santa or Mrs. Claus will land at the Thompson Falls airport. Arrival time is approximately 11:15-11:30 a.m. Red Sleighs Over Montana, sponsored and paid for by the Museum of Mountain Flying in Missoula and donations from the public, will send aircraft, fixed wing and helicopters, to 23 rural towns in Montana and two rural towns in the Idaho panhandle. This is an enormous logistical effort and some aspects are more difficult to coordinate than others. Schools at these sites go on Christmas vacation on different dates. Last year, the event occurred after school in Thompson Falls had closed for Christmas vacation. This year didn’t work out quite as well and school is still in session, so school-age children will be unable to attend. But for adults who love the magic of Christmas, and families with small children, please take the opportunity to attend such a fun and unique event. Small children will be thrilled by the aircraft, Santa or Mrs. Claus, candy and pictures with everything mentioned. What a fun memory to create with them. I hope to see you at the airport on December 20. Dress warm and bring your cellphones to take pictures. The aircraft will make other stops before coming here, so time is approximate.

Ruth Cheney,

Thompson Falls