Ho! Ho! Ho!

IRONWOOD - A Saturday morning "Christmas for Kids" event at the Ironwood Township Hall featured a steady line of children waiting for the chance to tell Santa what they hope to receive for Christmas.

The Ironwood Township Volunteer Fire Department sponsored the annual event, which included a gift for each child in attendance.

"It makes people happy," said Fire Chief Scott Carlson with a big grin.

Also available was a light lunch of hot dogs, chips, Christmas cookies and beverages.

After time with Santa, kids sat at multiple tables to enjoy their meal while visiting with their parents, siblings and other family members and watching other kids take their turn with Jolly Old St. Nick.

Joanne Carlson, wife of the chief, said 100 to 200 kids attend the annual event, depending on the year.

Carlson, who was dressed as an elf, said the 20 members of the department "take a day" to sit and wrap all the gifts that are donated by members of the community.

Wives, husbands and mates of department members also help with any other aspect of the event.

In addition, Adam Graser, deputy sheriff with the Gogebic County Sheriff's Office in Bessemer, lent support.

While standing next to multiple boxes that were spilling over with gifts, he said the best part was seeing the smiles on the faces of participating children.

One of the kids was Kanaan Tippet, 4, of Ironwood, who was there with his mom, Jessica Tippett.

Kanaan said he wanted Santa to bring him "a kitchen set."

"He loves to cook," said his mom, who added that he's hoping to receive items such as pots and pans.

Festive holiday decorations completed the picture at the Lake Road location.