Jane Imbody
| Reporter assisted by AI
Watch Selby Gardens switch on its dazzling Lights in Bloom in Sarasota
Marie Selby Botanical Gardens’ Lights in Bloom display in downtown Sarasota runs select nights Dec. 6 through Jan. 3.
Ashland’s Art of Gardening Club gathered for a Christmas brunch featuring a special storytelling session by one of its members, Dave Kowalka.
Kowalka shared his childhood experience of “The Polar Express,” recalling how he hopped aboard the magical train on Christmas Eve. His story captivated the audience, offering a unique perspective through the eyes of a third grader.
The event took place Dec. 3 at the Historical Society Manor House, where members enjoyed a potluck brunch with all plates, cups and silverware provided, according to a community announcement.
A magical journey
Kowalka’s tale began with the train stopping outside his second-floor bedroom window. Even fourth graders joined the ride to the North Pole, he noted. Hot cocoa was in plentiful supply, and he had two cups.
At the North Pole, Santa chose the youngster to make a Christmas wish. Kowalka wished for a bell from one of the reindeer.
After returning home, Kowalka said he had the best night’s sleep ever under his quilt, despite his bedroom being quite cold.
Christmas morning brought fond memories of a red wagon and the traditional opening of long underwear.
His sister spotted one last gift under the tree, accompanied by a note: “Dave — Found this on the seat of my sleigh. Fix that hole in your pocket. Love, Mr. C.” It was the Santa’s sleigh bell he left behind.
Kowalka noted that only those who believe in Santa can hear the bell.
Spreading holiday cheer
Members Sally Ahlers, Cheri Britton, Skip Cather, Claudia Dunn, Pat Edwards, Ruth Ann Linder, Faith McKinley, Cathy Siwek, Patty Stauffer, Peggy Stover and Kathy Varner all went home with jingle bells gifted by Kowalka to decorate their trees.
Companion Plants will be the topic of the Jan. 7 program at Peace Lutheran Church.
This story was created by Jane Imbody, jimbody@usatodayco.com, with the assistance of Artificial Intelligence (AI). Journalists were involved in every step of the information gathering, review, editing and publishing process. Learn more at cm.usatoday.com/ethical-conduct/.
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