For nearly a decade the Palmer Coking Coal Company in Black Diamond has provided lumps of coal to Christmas shoppers looking for a funny gift or gag. The goal is to raise funds for Vine Maple Place in Maple Valley, a nonprofit organization providing transitional housing for single mothers.

In traditional English folklore a lump of coal was left in the stockings hung over the fireplace of those who had been naughty the previous year. In Italy children would be visited by an elderly woman named La Befana (derived from ‘epiphany’) who flew on her cleaning broom leaving treats for good children, but lumps of coal for the wicked. Danish children put a shoe out on Christmas night with good children receiving chocolate and rascals getting coal. In the Scottish New Year tradition if a tall dark stranger comes through your door carrying a lump of coal it is good luck. Another tradition claims the lump of coal is the fuel that warms a blazing eternity for those who’ve misbehaved.

If someone on your Christmas list has been naughty and deserves a lump of coal in their stocking, stop by Palmer Coking Coal located at 31407 state Route 169, Black Diamond, and pick up a free gift-wrapped piece of coal. Then warm your own heart by making a donation to Vine Maple Place, a local charity which changes lives.

For directions call 425-432-4700 or visit www.palmercc.com.