Photo by Joe Renckly
Gala goers mingle and enjoy the music at the Priory Grand Hall for the 2013  Northside/North Shore Chamber of Commerce Holiday Gala.

By Alyse Horn

On December 12, Northside business owners and residents gathered in the Grand Hall at The Priory for the annual Northside/North Shore Chamber of Commerce Holiday Gala.

The night was filled with jazz music by Michele Bensen and The Bensen Burner Band, as well as a silent auction and a special raffle for attendees who brought a toy or non-perishable food item.

The food was collected and donated to the Northside Common Ministries Food Pantry and the toys were given to Urban Impact, which distributes the toys to Northside youth in need.

Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Robin Miller said the night was “splendid” and filled with positivity.

“It’s all about the spirit of giving,” Miller said. “People [donated] toys and food, and we celebrated the evening together.”

Sara Van Kirk, director of education at the Urban Impact, said approximately 45 toys were donated from the gala.

“[We are] so excited and so grateful for the opportunity to collect those toys,” Van Kirk said. “We want people to know we are so thankful.”

Van Kirk said in the week following the gala, Urban Impact has been wrapping and delivering the toys to families in need.

The Northside/North Shore Chamber of Commerce is a service organization that creates, develops and fosters a supportive climate that serves the interest of its members. As a partner with business, the Chamber is a resource that promotes, maintains and enhances business activities. As a member of the community, the Chamber collaborates with other groups to promote the interests of the Northside.

For more information, visit www.northsidechamberofcommerce.com