Police, Dick’s partner to cheer kids

11-Dec-13 – (Above) Santa (at left with red suit and white beard) waves to fans at Dick’s Last Resort on Wednesday. Helping Santa (center frame) is Dan Reynolds, general manager of the restaurant/bar located at Marina City in River North. (Click on image to view larger version.)

For the 21st consecutive year, although not at the same location, Dick’s hosted its annual party for Chicago children who might not be getting much for the holidays this year. School officials and community volunteers selected about 80 children.

In addition to gifts from Santa, the kids, bussed in from area schools, were treated to a buffet, gift bags from Windy City Novelties, and carols from students at Vandercook College of Music. The restaurant was closed during the event late Wednesday afternoon.

Illinois Secretary of State Jesse White stopped in to visit briefly with the children.

The event is organized with the help of the Community Policing Office for Chicago’s 18th police district. The offices are part of the Chicago Alternative Policing Strategy, a partnership between police and the community it serves.