Naples Islands Garden Club Holiday Luncheon.

On December 13, lively holiday music filled the festive foyer of Virginia Country Club as 104 Naples Islands Garden Club members and guests arrived laden with toys and gift cards. Our annual holiday lunch is a time for joy shared with long time friends and participation in the Spark of Love Toy Drive. This year, President, Deborah Smith welcomed honored guests, newly appointed LBFD Chief Dennis Buchanan and Assistant Fire Chief John Davis.

A significant part of the day is always the presence of the volunteer firemen from the Long Beach Fire Department, and especially Will Nash, coordinator of the Spark of Love Toy Drive. He has become a favorite friend of the Garden Club over many years of attending this event. Following a delicious luncheon, Will welcomed and introduced his firefighter crew who arrived in fire truck, emergency vehicle and trailer to collect an abundance of toys, plus $800 worth of gift cards.

Pianist Vince Torbey's lovely music set the mood throughout the festivities and the day concluded with members joining in a collection of joyous carols led by Marilyn Bittle and Linda Frame.

Submitted By: Trish Schooley