In a week where everyone was fixated on the Olympics, East Coasters in Toronto pried themselves from their TV sets and gathered to celebrate in support of Breakfast for Learning in Atlantic Canada. On the evening of Friday, February 26, friends both old and new gathered together at John Labatt Hall for an East Coast Army Kitchen Party.

From left to right: Big Fog's piper, Jay Dingwall, Megan Hooper, David Dingwall, Erica & Matt Morton. Photo credit: Mun Wai Chau (munphotos.com)

Hosted by the East Coast Army and sponsored by Alexander Keith’s, this lively event featured the musical stylings of Big Fog, including the surprise addition of a bagpiper, who circled the bar (much to everyone’s delight).

Bolstered by delicious food and warmed by Labatt beers, the crowd networked, exchanged stories, and broke the winter blues. East Coast Connected president Jay Dingwall welcomed the crowd, and Program Manager Ian Finley and ECA organizer Jessica Forsythe livened up the room with games and prizes. Many in the crowd sang along to Barrett’s Privateers and many other classics, or played a friendly game of pool.

The party wrapped up just in time for the crowd to catch the Canadian Men’s Hockey team compete against Slovakia. (We all know how that one ended!)

The East Coast Army’s mission is to stimulate charitable networks between Ontario and the Atlantic provinces. With the support of sponsors, the event raised over $400 for Breakfast for Learning.

Click here for more information about Breakfast for Learning.