Mr. Speaker, I rise today to shout a loud Christmas cheer for the Sturgeon Falls volunteer firefighters and their successful Santa Fund Telethon last weekend.
Over $37,000 was raised during the West Nipissing telethon. This is an amazing figure, a community of 14,000 raising $37,000 in seven hours.
I would like to congratulate chief Richard Savage and his team of firefighters, as well as the group of over 200 exceptional volunteers, for their participation in the telethon.
Hats off, as well, to all the individuals, businesses and charities that donated and made the telethon and toy drive such a success. It is the best result in over 15 years. This means that over 400 families in need will enjoy Christmas.
Merry Christmas to the families, the children, the firefighters and to you, the excellent community of West Nipissing. You make us proud.