“A SLEIGH RIDE TOGETHER!”

“A Sleigh Ride Together” was the theme for the Naples Islands Garden Club Christmas luncheon held at Virginia Country Club this year and attended by 130 members and guests. Joyful Christmas carols were being played by Vince Torbey at the piano as members arrived with arm-loads of unwrapped toys for the “Spark of Love Toy Drive”. Honored guests were the Chief of the Long Beach Firemen Department, Xavier Espino, and Coordinator of the Spark of Love Toy Drive, Will Nash, and Will's mother Nancy Nash. The Bay Shore choir organized by member Linda Landes and choir director Julie Ramsey, lead us in singing carols together that contributed to the holiday festivities. A grand time was had by all! Thank you to my committee for making it all happen! Happy New Year, everyone!

Volunteer firemen from Station #9 arrived in the fire engine and unloaded large cardboard boxes to collect the mountain of donated toys. We are proud of the partnership between our Garden Club and coordinator Will Nash which has been strengthened over the years. Tables were laden with toys for all ages including $800 worth of gift cards purchased with donated money from members. Thank you everyone for your generosity and thoughtfulness to the . What “Spark of Love Toy Drive” more meaningful way to celebrate the season than gifts from the