Hanover Celebrates Community Spirit at Annual Chamber of Commerce Christmas Luncheon

The Hanover Chamber of Commerce hosted its highly anticipated Annual Christmas Luncheon and Community Recognition Event today at Grace United Church Reception Hall, bringing together approximately 100 members of the local business community for an afternoon of celebration, networking, and recognition.

Guests enjoyed a festive full turkey dinner with all the trimmings, prepared by the renowned Cravings Family Restaurant, while connecting with peers and reflecting on the successes of the past year.

The event featured Mayor Sue Paterson’s “Top Achievements of the Past Year”, highlighting transformative initiatives such as:

  • The development of Hanover’s new net-zero firehall,
  • Significant growth in population, business investment, and infrastructure, including a proposed in-principle boundary adjustment with West Grey,
  • Progress on community and economic development supports and enhancements, and
  • The opening of the Canadian Tire Splash Pad, a new recreational feature for families.

Mayor Paterson shared, “This luncheon is a wonderful opportunity to celebrate our accomplishments and recognize the collective effort that makes Hanover thrive. Success is never about one person—it’s about the teamwork and dedication of our entire community.”

A highlight of the luncheon was the OLG Presentation, showcasing the strong partnership between the Town of Hanover, OLG, and Playtime Casino Hanover. Through the Municipality Contribution Agreement, Hanover received $1,287,122 in fiscal year 2025 (April 1, 2024 – March 31, 2025). These funds—generated from gaming revenue at Playtime Casino—were reinvested into capital improvements that strengthen our community, including:

  • Road and infrastructure upgrades,
  • Engineering for future growth,
  • Technology enhancements, and
  • Community grants supporting healthcare and recreation projects.

This partnership reflects the incredible value of having Playtime Casino in Hanover and OLG’s commitment to sharing profits back with our community, helping to fund projects that improve quality of life and support long-term development.

“OLG is proud to be a vital part of the Town of Hanover” said Kathleen Devine, OLG’s Senior Municipal Relations Manager. “For the last 50 years, since the organization’s start in 1975, 100 per cent of OLG profits are reinvested in Ontario to support provincial priorities. From critical infrastructure to important local programs, to community festivals OLG’s profits are hard at work in the Town of Hanover and across our province to build stronger communities. We also appreciate the contribution of gaming employees at Playtime Casino Hanover who are making life in your community that much better. When you play at an Ontario casino, you play for Ontario.”

The luncheon concluded with community recognition presentations, prize draws, and a festive networking social, reinforcing the importance of collaboration between local businesses, the Town of Hanover, Hanover Chamber of Commerce, OLG, and Playtime Casino in building a stronger community.

OLG and Playtime Casino Hanover representatives present a cheque to the Town of Hanover, celebrating a contribution of $1,287,122 from Playtime Casino Hanover that supported key capital improvements and community programs.

Photo Caption:
OLG and Playtime Casino Hanover representatives present a cheque to the Town of Hanover, celebrating a contribution of $1,287,122 from Playtime Casino Hanover that supported key capital improvements and community programs.

For more achievements and updates, follow the Town of Hanover on social media as we continue to share successes and plans for the year ahead.