Chamber gets in the spirit of giving

December 10, 2014 · 0 Comments

By Mark Pavilons
The generosity of King’s business community was front and centre last week, during the King Chamber of Commerce’s annual Christmas Lunch.
The well attended event saw a record number of toy donations to local charities, including the Nobleton Christmas Drive.
“It gets better and better every year,” said Chamber member Patty Fleetwood. “There are toys here I’ve never seen before.”
Fleetwood praised the efforts of Mimi Buchanan, who has worked tirelessly for the past 19 years with the Nobleton charity. Organized through Nobleton Public School, the drive helps to provide children and their families with everything from clothing and essentials to toys and turkey dinners.
This is the third year the King Chamber has helped this cause and Fleetwood had nothing but praise for Buchanan. “If you met her, you’d be surprised,” she said.
“This (Chamber donation) is a phenomenal effort,” Fleetwood added. “It’s my favourite event of the year because you give from the heart … for children in King Township.”
King Fire Chief Jim Wall said he’s worked with Buchanan for some time, noting she actually works year-round helping youngsters with graduation clothes and even salon visits.
Both Buchanan and the volunteer firefighters who help distribute the donations, work right through Christmas Eve, literally making spirits bright.
The firefighters help to ensure the donations get to their destinations, but “you (donors) deserve the credit, not us,” Wall said. He also pointed out the firefighters work with the King Township Food Bank throughout the year by accepting donations.
Chamber president Tom Allen thanked members for attending this special event.
“Our business community is generous,” he said. “It’s so nice to see the businesses reach out and donate.”
He also thanked the firefighters for gathering all the donations.
Mayor Steve Pellegrini said he’s proud to be a partner with the King Chamber. He, too, thanked members for their donations this year.
He introduced senior staff members and Councillors David Boyd and Avia Eek. He urged local businesses to call upon Jamie Smyth, King’s Economic Development Officer, “24/7” to help with any business related matters.
The mayor encouraged Chamber members to attend his Feb. 26, 2015 Mayor’s Lunch, which will feature a major announcement for King Township.
“It’s exciting news. We’re bursting to get it out,” he said.