Santa Cossack comes to town

December 18, 2010

Kenny Bearden of the Cossacks Motorcycle Club finishes loading toys into the back of a pickup prior to the start of the club's Christmas Toy Run Saturday morning. (HERALD photo/Steve Reagan)

Santa didn't have his reindeer with him Saturday, but he had plenty of “hogs.”

The Harley-Davidson-riding Cossacks Motorcycle Club escorted Santa around town to help him dispense toys and food to needy families as part of the group's annual Christmas Toy Run Saturday morning.

Despite cold temperatures, a large contingent of riders were on hand to participate in the event, which the Cossacks have held for almost 20 years.

Behind a police escort and a phalanx of motorcycles came Santa in the bed of pickup, then trailers carrying a goodly amount of toys and food, which the group collect via private donations from organizations and area residents.

“We get together with the American Legion and the Eagles Lodge to help put this on,” said Kenny Bearden of the Cossacks. “About 20 to 25 club members will participate, along with a lot of independent riders, as well.”

During their Saturday run, the Cossacks distributed Christmas dinners to 24 area families, and toys to 64 children.