Christmas First Responder Style

The Island Country Club Charitable Foundation, in partnership with Marco Island Police and Fire Rescue Departments, introduced the first annual Christmas First Responder Style event. It was held at the Island Country Club December 5th. A total of 134 school children from Tommie Barfield Elementary School, Marco Island Charter Middle School and Marco Island Academy received Christmas presents and had their pictures taken on various police and fire rescue equipment. 

Gary Landis, Chairman of the Charitable Foundation, said “we were looking to do something in addition to Joy of Giving, something that focused more specifically on Marco Island kids. What better partners than the Police and Fire departments to whom we all owe so much”. 

“This event would not have been possible without the generosity, kindness and passion of the members of Charitable Foundation who are committed to giving back to our community,” said Fire Rescue Chief Chris Byrne. “I must recognize Gary Landis who steered the ship, Island Country Club Manager Bid Bakkar who accommodated every need of the event, and Jennifer Orr who kept our planning sessions on track. Also Firefighter Chris Bowden and Sergeant Mark Haueter who coordinated with the business community and located the families and children in need.” 

Police Chief Tracy Frazzano stated that this was one of the most rewarding events that she had participated in since coming to Marco Island. “We look forward to many more years of our association with the Island Country Club Charitable Foundation”.