LETTER: Thanks to those who helped with the Ottawa Sunrise Rotary's toy and book collection

To the Editor:

The year 2020 has certainly been a challenge. When the Festival of Lights parade was canceled, the Ottawa Sunrise Rotary had to find an alternative way to continue their tradition of the toy and book float. For the last 31 years the float has collected toys and books for the children of Ottawa being distributed by the Salvation Army.

We had a very successful toy and book drive this year. The support from the community was truly wonderful. We would like to thank several businesses and organizations that made this all possible.

Thank you to Tammie Sloup and The Times for the several articles in the newspaper covering the float. A big thank you to the city of Ottawa for allowing our float to be parked on Jackson Street in Washington (Square) park for a drop-off location. Also Farm and Fleet for both the generous donation of toys and books and allowing our float to park in their parking lot on the last collection day. Plus Bill Walsh Auto Group for being a drop-off point. The five local dealerships collected toys and books for Ottawa Sunrise Rotary toy and book float. Designs and Signs donated awesome banners and posters for advertisement. Thank you Gene.

But most of all., a big thank you to our members of Ottawa Sunrise Rotary.  None of this would have been possible without the help and dedication of our members.

Sandy Robinson, Ottawa Sunrise Rotary