After the Christmas Walk, and the Christmas tree lighting ceremony, after the Street Parade, and the Luminaries in the Park, after the Sing-Along, after the Boat Parade ... well, you get the idea. It was time to give thanks to all those who made Christmas Island Style a success -- and catch a little rest and relaxation along the way, during the After 5 Cocktail party at the Hilton on Dec. 18.
"Tonight's the night we get a chance to put up our heels, take a breather and thank everybody who was connected and gave their time to the Christmas Island Style venture," said Dave Rice, the overall chairman of Marco Island's unique celebration of the holidays. "This is just an informal-type of gathering to show how much we appreciate the time and effort a whole lot of people put into the program and to have a little fun at the same time."
Wednesday night's gala was enjoyed by over 150 guests along with the Christmas musical offerings of J. Robert and the tantalizing treats provided by the Hilton.
"We also want to make this gathering tonight as beneficial as we can," Rice pointed out. "That's why we have a special sidelight to all this good cheer."
The wrap-up event was designated as a public function sponsored by the Marco Island Area Chamber of Commerce and the Marco Island Hilton The admission price was a new toy worth at least $10 or a donation of $10 in order to purchase a new toy.
"We appreciate all the help Marco Island receives from various neighborhood charities, but this program is designed to benefit only those kids on Marco Island itself," Rice pointed out.
In addition to providing its own gifts, the Marco Island Rotary Club will wrap the gifts, deliver them to Catholic Charities of Collier County, and then disperse them throughout Marco Island families.
"This is the second year we have been doing this," Rice added, "and we think it's the neighborly thing to do, especially now in the holiday spirit."
