April 2015 Neapolitan Family

April 2015 neafamily.com

COMPLIMENTARY

Summer Camp

DIRECTORY

SPORTS, DANCE, ACADEMICS & MORE!

EARTH DAY LESSONS FOR YOUR KIDS PLUS LOCAL EVENTS EMPOWERING OUR GIRLS!

WHY YOU SHOULD TAKE YOUR DAUGHTER TO WORK ON APRIL 23

WE’RE SLIDING INTO

Spring & Summer!

NEAPOLITANfamily • April 2015

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Despite being a good student, Ron developed an intense fear of school and refused to go. Depressed and directionless, he abused alcohol and bounced between jobs, homes and towns. By the time he was 23, he had experienced the desperation of homelessness more than once, and had been in several Crisis Units. He was finally diagnosed with bipolar disorder, but without a job or housing, he had no plans. Then he made his way to DLC. DLC referred him to a shelter and into the Project for Assistance in Transition from Homelessness Program. They helped Ron enroll at FGCU for a degree in software engineering and secured financial aid and campus housing.

In just eight months, Ron is stable, sober and armed with the skills he needs to manage his illness. He now has a support system and plans for a bright future. f o r M e n t a l We l l n e s s

His Mind is Our Concern.

Mental health is a community issue.

Fortunately, there’s a community solution.

Ron is among one in four in Collier County who suffer from a mental illness. One in ten of us will experience some form of substance abuse. When a family member, friend or coworker battles a mental health or substance abuse problem, we suffer with them.

Thankfully, David Lawrence Center is here for our community.

f o r m e n t a l We l l n e s s

A not-for-profit organization founded and still governed by community leaders, the David Lawrence Center is the behavioral health component of our community’s healthcare network.

A true local resource, it relies on donations, fees and grants to invest in the health, safety and wellbeing of our community.

When you or someone you love needs help, call on the highly compassionate, committed and competent professionals of the David Lawrence Center to inspire you to move beyond the crisis towards life-changing wellness.

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F o R m e N Ta l W e l l N e s s

DavidLawrenceCenter.org Naples

239-455-8500

immokalee

239-657-4434

NEAPOLITANfamily • April 2015

4 Convenient Locations:

Sports CLUB Center Bonita Recreation Center Osceola Elementary Vineyards Elementary

SPORTS CLUB

Children Learning Ul+mate Balance Between Academics and Physical Ac+vity

239.566.2582

Sports CLUB, a division of Sports Camp, Inc., is a non-­‐profit 501 (c)(3) organizaAon that has been in operaAon since 1999. The mission of Sports CLUB is to provide children a safe and enriching aHer-­‐school, summer camp and youth sports environment through educaAonal, physical and creaAve acAviAes.

Each year, Sports CLUB provides over $300,000 in financial aid and discounted fees for aHer-­‐school/summer camp programs.

AddiAonally, Sports Club provides an average of $15,000 per year in financial aid for children to parAcipate in youth sports. Due to the program quality and increased popularity of Sports CLUB’s AHer-­‐School and K6 Youth Sports Programs, there is a greater than ever demand to increase our donor base to assist families in need.

The next scholarship fundraiser is the Sports CLUB Shootout Golf Tournament on Saturday, May 9th at the presAgious Tiburon Golf Course. If you would like to parAcipate in the golf tournament or donate toward the Sports CLUB Scholarship Fund please call Event Directors at 239.298.6407 or 239.398.2093. Go to www.sportsclubnaples.org/shootout for more informaAon.

SPORTS CLUB 3275 PINE RIDGE ROAD NAPLES, FL 34109 239.566.CLUB (2582) www.sportsCLUBnaples.org

NEAPOLITANfamily • April 2015

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APRIL 2015 TABLE OF CONTENTS

in every issue . . .

04

ON THE COVER

06

ONLINE THIS MONTH AT NEAFAMILY.COM

07

FROM THE PUBLISHER

08

REEL LIFE WITH JANE Family Movie Reviews

12

COLLIER COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOLS NEWS

14

COLLIER COUNTY SCHOOL BOARD NEWS

16

CITY CONNECTION City of Naples Parks Department News and Events

21

COMMUNITY EVENTS

24

CENTERFOLD CALENDAR

26

APRIL EVENTS

on the cover… features…

10 Take Our Daughters To Work Day: Empowering girls for a bright future.

by Kimberly Blaker 18 5 Earth Day Lessons for Your Kids

by Kerrie McLoughlin Sisters Lina (5 years old) and Aliyah (8 years old) are the daughters of Amanda Bayoumi. Lina attends Lake Park Elementary School and Aliyah attends Grace Lutheran Preschool. Mom Amanda works for Collier County Government.

19 Local Earth Day Events 20 7 Habits of Highly Effective Parents of Children of Special Needs

by Judy M. Miller

Cover photo by Peggy Farren 21 Yoga For Children with Special of Avant Garde Photography • (239) 263-7001 CEDR 1003 NeaFamily 1-4 pg Horiz.4_Layout 1 2/18/13 9:45 by AMStacy Page 1 Needs Nicolau

I love my

Empowering and inspiring children to reach their potential with: - Programs for 6 months to 6 years of age with full or parttime days - Florida VPK programs & Private chef’s delicious full meal program - Residential campus setting with 2-large play yards and much more

Call today for a campus tour: 239-597-7190 www.cedarmontessori.org e-mail: office@cedarmontessori.org

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summer camp…

44 2015 Summer Camp

Directory

50 Sending Your Preschooler To Summer Camp

by Jennifer Gregory 22 Why Our Kids Dig Dinosaurs

by Andrea Breznay 52 Ways Kids Can Cash-in This Summer: Money making ideas for tweens and teens.

by Kimberly Blaker the things he sees are not just remembered, they form a part of his soul.

Maria Montessori

inspiring the love of learning since 1984 NEAPOLITANfamily • April 2015

My hospital is a Mayo Clinic Care Network member.

The doctors and specialists at NCH & Mayo Clinic are sharing everything from first-hand experience to a wealth of knowledge allowing you access to Mayo Clinic’s expertise for solving the hard-to-solve medical problems. For you that means peace of mind and access to the finest medical knowledge available. Right here at home. NCH and Mayo Clinic...working together to make your hospital even better.

This is my hospital ...now even better!

For information, visit us at www.NCHmd.org NEAPOLITANfamily • April 2015

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online APRIL

at

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Web Only Content

Updated Calendar We update the calendar frequently adding new events that come in after the print publication deadlines. Check often to see what is going on in Naples and surrounding areas. There is NOT a better calendar of events available locally.

This month’s web-only articles: • Easter Events Get the most updated list of Easter events available. Plus, you’ll find fun Easter crafts for the kids.

• Web Only Contest Check the contest page for information on our April “web-only” contest.

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Twinkle Twinkle Little Store Baby Gear Rentals & Resale We buy & sell your gently used kids stuff

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NEAPOLITANfamily • April 2015

from the publisher…

the parenting magazine devoted to collier county

THIS MONTH: Summer Camps, Take Our Daughters To Work Day and Earth Day!

P.O. Box 110656 Naples, FL 34108 (239) 514-0338 Phone (239) 514-0339 Fax info@neafamily.com Publisher Andrea Breznay andrea@neafamily.com Assistant Publisher Stacy Nicolau snicolau@neafamily.com Copy Editor Leigh Ann Newmann Cover Photographer Peggy Farren Contributing Graphic Designer Janine Vitanza

Editorial Submissions are welcome.

We reserve the right to edit, reject or comment editorially on all material contributed. We cannot be responsible for return of any unsolicited materials.

Articles and advertisements in Neapolitan Family do not necessarily reflect the opinion of the publisher nor does the publisher assume responsibility for statements made by our advertisers or editorial contributors. Acceptance of advertising by Neapolitan Family does not constitute an endorsement of the products, services or information. We do not knowingly present any product or service which is fraudulent or misleading in nature.

Neapolitan Family is available free of charge at over 275 distribution points throughout Collier County as well as digitally at www.neafamily.com.

Neapolitan Family is ©2015 by Neapolitan Publishing Co., LLC. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part without written permission is strictly prohibited.

NEAPOLITANfamily • April 2015

Twenty-three years ago, my daughter was in second grade and I read about a new movement called “Take Your Daughter To Work Day.” I sent for the literature from the Ms. Foundation and approached my daughter’s school about the event. I loved the idea of introducing her and other girls to the many career choices that were available. The school allowed me to organize a career fair on that first TYDTWD. I invited 20 women who were in a variety of careers: firefighter, attorney, artist, veterinarian and others–to set up a display about their career in the school cafeteria. The kids came through and chatted with the women, asking questions and learning about each woman’s life. My daughter’s photo was taken wearing full fire gear and appeared on the first page of the local newspaper the next day–Take Your Daughter To Work Day was a resounding success!

During the years since that first day, the day has changed to include boys. But Kimberly Blaker’s article on page 10 focuses on the original intention of the day: empowering girls. She includes suggestions on how you can make this special day an important one for your daughter. Whether you participate with your daughter or son, I hope you will participate!

It’s April and that means it’s time for the annual Summer Camp directory. This year we have some exciting new options. The participating camps have openings and want your child to attend so check out the descriptions and make some calls to find the perfect fit for your child. Most of the camps fill up quickly so don’t wait!

Happy April!

Andrea Breznay Publisher

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REEL LIFE WITH JANE

By Jane Louise Boursaw

Family Movie & DVD Reviews N

ew on the big screen in April, Kevin James returns as everyone’s favorite mall cop, Scott Eastman and Britt Robertson get romantic in a new Nicholas Sparks movie, and DisneyNature reveals the life of some adorable monkeys. Here’s a sneak peek at what’s new in theaters and on DVD and Blu-ray this month. Note that release dates are subject to change.

WOMAN IN GOLD PG-13 for some thematic elements and brief strong language • In Theaters 4/3 Ok for Kids 13+ • Reel Preview: 3.5 of 5 Reels “Woman in Gold” is the remarkable true story of one woman’s journey to reclaim her heritage and seek justice for what happened to her family.

Sixty years after fleeing Vienna during World War II, a Jewish woman, Maria Altmann (Helen Mirren), embarks on a mission to retrieve family possessions seized by the Nazis, among them Klimt’s famous painting “The Lady in Gold.” Together with her inexperienced but plucky young lawyer, Randy Schoenberg (Ryan Reynolds), their journey takes them to the heart of the Austrian establishment and the U.S. Supreme Court, forcing her to confront difficult truths about the past. Directed

by Simon Curtis, this movie also stars Daniel Bruhl and Katie Holmes.

FURIOUS 7 PG-13 for prolonged frenetic sequences of violence, action and mayhem, suggestive content and brief strong language In Theaters 4/3 • Ok for Kids 14+ Reel Preview: 4 of 5 Reels They’re back! Vin Diesel, Paul Walker and Dwayne Johnson lead the next chapter in the “Fast & Furious” franchise built on speed. The plot really isn’t important, is it? Let’s be real, we

see these movies for the wild stunts -- including, in this movie, a car crashing into a high rise building (and I don’t mean at floor level!).

But for anyone keeping track, the story follows Deckard Shaw (Statham) as he seeks revenge against Dominic Toretto (Diesel) and his family for the death of his brother.

THE LONGEST RIDE PG-13 for some sexuality, partial nudity, and some war and sports action • In Theaters 4/10 Ok for Kids 13+• Reel Preview: 3.5 of 5 Reels Horses, romance and Nicholas Sparks. What could be better? Based on the bestselling novel

by Sparks, this romantic drama centers on starcrossed lovers Luke (Scott Eastwood), a former champion bull rider looking to make a comeback, and Sophia (Britt Robertson), a college student embarking on her dream job in New York City’s art world. As conflicting paths and ideals test their relationship, Sophia and Luke make an unexpected and fateful connection with Ira (Alan Alda), whose memories of his own decades-long romance with his beloved wife deeply inspire the young couple. Spanning generations and two intertwining love stories, “The Longest Ride” explores the challenges and infinite rewards of enduring love.

Sigh ... dreamy...

DESERT DANCER PG-13 for thematic elements, some drug material and violence • In Theaters 4/10 (limited; expands 4/17) | Ok for Kids 13+ Reel Preview: 4 of 5 Reels Set in Iran, this powerful and unbelievable true story follows the brave ambition of Afshin Ghaffarian (Reece Ritchie). During the volatile climate of the 2009 presidential election, where many cultural freedoms were threatened, Afshin and some friends, including Elaheh (Freida Pinto), risk their lives to form an underground dance company. Through banned online videos, they study timeless legends who cross all cultural divides, including Michael Jackson, Gene Kelly and Rudolf Nureyev, and learn how to embrace their passion for dance and each other.

PAUL BLART: MALL COP 2 PG for some violence • In Theaters 4/17 Ok for Kids 7+ Reel Preview: 3.5 of 5 Reels The first “Paul Blart: Mall Cop” movie was super fun and silly (because we need that sometimes, right?), and this sequel is more of the same. After six years of keeping our malls safe, Paul Blart has earned a welldeserved vacation. So he heads to Vegas with his teenage daughter Maya (super cute Raini Rodriguez) before she heads off to college. But safety never takes a holiday and when duty calls, Blart answers. Neal McDonough, D.B. Woodside and Nicholas Turturro also star in this movie directed

by Andy Fickman (“The Game Plan”).

www.reedorthodonticsnaples.com

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NEAPOLITANfamily • April 2015

MONKEY KINGDOM Rated G • In Theaters 4/17 Ok for Kids 5+ • Reel Preview: 3.5 of 5 Reels This year’s “Earth Day” movie from Disneynature is “Monkey Kingdom,” throwing a spotlight on a newborn monkey and its mother.

Struggling to survive within the competitive social hierarchy of the Temple Troop, a dynamic group of monkeys who live in ancient ruins in the jungles of South Asia, they’re joined by a rich cast of forest characters. Life is grand, food is plentiful, and safety is assured -- but only if you’re lucky enough to be born on the higher rungs of the Troop’s social ladder. But this young mother and her infant find themselves in a constant state of hunger and peril from higherranking monkeys. It’ll take a lot of ingenuity, hard work, and a little luck to change their place in the world.

THE AGE OF ADALINE PG-13 for a suggestive comment In Theaters 4/24 • Ok for Kids 13+ Reel Preview: 3.5 of 5 Reels After miraculously remaining 29 years old for nearly eight decades, Adaline Bowman (Blake Lively) has lived a solitary existence, never allowing herself to get close to anyone who might reveal her secret. But a chance encounter with charismatic philanthropist Ellis Jones (Michiel Huisman) reignites her passion for life and romance. When a weekend with his parents (Harrison Ford, Kathy Baker) threatens to uncover the truth, Adaline makes a decision that will change her life forever. Directed by Lee Toland Krieger, this romantic drama also stars Amanda Crew and Ellen Burstyn.

LITTLE BOY PG-13 for some thematic material and violence • In Theaters 4/24 Ok for Kids 14+ • Open Road Films Reel Preview: 4 of 5 Reels This powerful and moving film set in the 1940s follows a little boy (Jakob Salvati) who’s willing to do whatever it takes to bring his dad

home from World War II alive. Directed by Smithsonian Institute Award winning director Alejandro Monteverde, this “lift your spirits” movie highlights themes of faith, hope and love in the face of adversity, and also stars Emily Watson, Tom Wilkinson, and Ben Chaplin.

It’s executive produced by Roma Downey and Mark Burnett (“Son of God,” the upcoming NBC series “A.D.,” and Paramount’s remake of “Ben-Hur”).

NEW ON DVD/BLU-RAY: THE JUNGLE BOOK: WATERFALL RESCUE Not Rated • On DVD 4/7 • Ok for Kids 3+ Reel Review: 3 of 5 Reels Your favorite Jungle Book characters -- Mowgli, Baloo and Lali -- embark on a brave mission to rescue their animal friends and save their jungle home.

Get ready for more than 60 action-packed minutes of the most exciting jungle adventure yet! Jimmy Hibbert and Emma Tate lend their voices to this cute movie.

BARK RANGER PG for rude humor • On DVD 4/14 Ok for Kids 5+ • Reel Review: 3 of 5 Reels Two kids and their trusty dog, Barkley (voiced

by Jon Lovitz), stumble across a treasure map while playing in an abandoned ranger station.

They set out on the adventure of a lifetime in search of a forgotten gold mine, but things take a turn for the worst when they come across a pair of bumbling crooks hiding out from the police!

MY LITTLE PONY TALES: THE COMPLETE SERIES On DVD 4/28 • Ok for Kids 3+ Reel Review: 4 of 5 Reels Ponyland is full of excitement, if you know where to find it, and now all your favorite “My Little Pony Tales” are collected in one amazing set! Join the seven Pony Friends - Starlight, Sweetheart, Melody, Bright Eyes, Patch, Clover and Bon Bon - for 13 fun-filled episodes (26 adventures total). Games, picnics, ice cream shops, roller derbies and even UFOs ... nothing is off-limits when it comes to grand Pony adventures.

FRANKLIN & FRIENDS: DEEP SEA VOYAGE

YELLOWBIRD PG for mild peril • On DVD 4/7 Ok for Kids 5+ • Reel Review: 4 of 5 Reels This cute animated movie follows a group of birds set to migrate to Africa, but suddenly the flock’s elder, Darius (voiced by Danny Glover), is wounded. He has no choice but to share all his secrets, wisdom and new flying routes with the first bird that happens to come along. That candidate is none other than Yellowbird (Seth Green), an eccentric little fellow who’s super excited about the challenge, but has no knowledge or natural talent for migrating whatsoever.

Also features the voices of Dakota Fanning and Christine Baranski.

On DVD 4/28 • Ok for Kids 3+ Reel Review: 4 of 5 Reels All aboard! A tropical island vacation with the Turtle family and Bear turns into an underwater exploration adventure! Franklin learns that new isn’t always better and that everyone has their special way to help out. Little ones can journey along as the group navigates their way through the great blue seas of the Caribbean in this funfilled submarine adventure.

JANE’S REEL RATING SYSTEM One Reel – Even the Force can’t save it.

Two Reels – Coulda been a contender Three Reels – Something to talk about.

Four Reels – You want the truth? Great flick!

Five Reels – Wow! The stuff dreams are made of.

NOW OPEN

9 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday, March 14-Sunday, July 5 Purchase tickets online at www.naplesgarden.org SUPPORTING SPONSORS

MEDIA SPONSOR

Sponsored in part by the Department of State, Division of Cultural Affairs, the Florida Council on Arts and Culture, and the State of Florida.

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WWW.NAPLESGARDEN.ORG NEAPOLITANfamily • April 2015

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HAPPY, HEALTHY FAMILY

By Kimberly Blaker

April 23, 2015

Take Our Daughters to Work Day Empowering Girls for a Bright Future

D

espite significant strides in recent years, women today earn twentyfive percent less than men and continue to be underrepresented in the boardroom, top executive positions, and the fast growing fields of technology, reveals Ms. Foundation for Women.

Studies have found that part of the reason this inequality persists is that when girls reach early adolescence their self-esteem drops significantly. During this stage, they become more focused on their appearance and how boys will perceive them, which often reduces their willingness to compete with or in front of boys. Therefore, girls fail to develop the know-how and the confidence necessary for competing later in the job market.

Another reason women are underrepresented and earn less is that in spite of

changes in recent generations girls are still subject to stereotypes concerning marriage, raising children, and certain occupations.

Such stereotypes steer girls, often unintentionally, into traditional paths and roles regardless of their interests and abilities.

For these reasons, Take Our Daughters to Work® Day was created in 1993 by the Ms. Foundation, to help girls realize the importance of their abilities and to reach their full potential. In 2003, the day was expanded to include boys and the official name changed to “Take Our Daughters and Sons to Work Day.” For many experts, the need is still greater for our girls to see the choices available to them and to discover the possibilities of having a balanced career and family life This year’s event is April 23, 2015.

Here are a few suggestions on how you can

participate and empower your daughter for a bright and fulfilling future.

A day with our daughters On Take Our Daughters and Sons to Work Day, avoid observation alone, and have some work and tasks set aside to keep your daughter busy and learning throughout the day.

At-the-office activities • Have your daughter keep a journal throughout the day, describing different aspects of the occupation that she likes and dislikes and why.

•

Give her a simple project to complete–perhaps one that includes online research– and then take the time to go through the work with her and show

The “Happy, Healthy Family” column is spondored each month by Monarch Therapy.

For more information on Monarch Therapy, call (239) 325-9210 or check www.MonarchTherapy.com 10

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NEAPOLITANfamily • April 2015

her where she succeeded and what she could improve upon.

•

Ask her to compose questions about the occupation and interview coworkers. Questions might include the pros and cons of the job, why coworkers chose the occupation, and what their day entails.

•

Describe hypothetical problems or situations that might arise in your job, and ask your daughter for ideas and solutions.

•

Have your daughter take photos throughout the day. Then have her compile a scrapbook. She can include descriptions of each photo and what she learned or discovered.

•

Visit yourfreecareertest.com where your daughter can do a free online survey for school aged kids to discover what careers fit her personality and interests. Then she can go to kids.usa. gov/teens/jobs/ for career information designed just for young teens.

Alternatives for taking daughters to work Not all girls will have the opportunity to participate in Take Our Daughters and Sons to Work Day. If you can’t take your own daughter to your office, consider asking if she can go along with a relative or friend.

In some cases, your daughter may know so much about your career that it would be more beneficial for her to tag along with someone else. In that case, be proactive and call local businesses or organization in your daughter’s area of interest and ask if they are planning anything for the day and how your daughter can participate.

Other ways parents can participate and promote the day Taking daughters to work isn’t the only way parents can participate. By doing the following parents can make the most of the day for all girls and show daughters the significance of the day and the importance of their future.

• Ask your employer to support the event and discuss ways the company can help make the day a success. Assist in planning special activities for girls throughout the day such as speakers,

•

•

group discussions, or a luncheon.

Organize a speaking engagement in your community to share with parents the importance of the day, ways they can participate, and what to do when they take their daughters to work.

Organize a career day at your children’s school. Invite women who represent a variety of occupations to set up a display about their occupation. Both girls and boys will benefit from learning about some of the career options women choose.

Do you want to help your tween girl increase their self esteem?

Soul Sisters Middle School Girls Group This group is designed to help girls build self-confidence, socialization skills, and problem solving skills as they navigate through the challenges of adolescence. Runs for 8 weeks beginning Spring 2015.

Call Monarch Therapy at 239-325-9210 for additional information.

Nicaea Academy is the best independent faith based school serving Naples, Bonita, Cape Coral, and surrounding areas!

Founded in 1996 by faith education missionaries, the Academy is an interdenominational, independent faith based school dedicated to providing our students with the winning tools necessary to build a firm foundation of academic and moral excellence. We accept McKay, Step Up For Students and C-4 Scholarships.

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COLLIER COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOLS

By Katie Tanner

Countdown to Kindergarten Registration for Collier County Public School’s Kindergarten Begins April 27, 2015

B

efore you know it, the “big day” will arrive. The day your child heads off to kindergarten. It is certainly an important life event that will bring tears to the eyes of many parents. I know I will be crying the day my now three-year-old son makes the transition to elementary school.

While I can’t ease your emotions, I can help make sure you are prepared.

Collier County Public Schools officially kicks off kindergarten registration at the end of this month. This will be the second year for our online centralized kindergarten registration. Don’t worry, I will walk you through everything, but I strongly encourage you not to wait until the new school year starts. Instead, put it on your to-do list for May or June.

Now, the most frequently asked question we get is “How old does my child have to be to register?” Your child must be five years old on or before September 1, 2015.

Starting on Monday, April 27, you’ll want to visit our website at www.collierschools.

com. There you will find a Kindergarten Registration image smack dab in the middle of the page. Clicking on the image will take you to the registration site. Please note that the site will not be “live” until Monday, April 27.

Once you’re on the site, simply follow the on-screen prompts to complete the pre-enrollment portion of the registration.

While there, you’ll find a list of required documents needed to complete the registration process. Please pay close attention to this list. If you have any questions on what you need to provide, call the school district Department of Student Relations at 239377-0547. The last thing we want for you is to have to make multiple trips because you brought the wrong document.

After you’ve taken care of the online pre-enrollment piece, you’ll need to bring the required documents to one of our three centralized registration locations. For those in Naples, you’ll head to the Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Administrative Center

To register for the 2015-16 school year your child must be five years old on or before September 1, 2015.

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(5775 Osceola Trail, behind Barron Collier High School). For Immokalee residents, you’ll visit Immokalee High School (701 Immokalee Drive). And in Everglades City, you’ll need to go to Everglades City School (415 School Drive). Again, we encourage you to wrap up this process by the end of June to make sure your child is good to go on the first day of school. If you are new to the district and have a child who will be enrolling in a grade other than kindergarten, we suggest you register him or her before the school year starts as well. That way you will avoid any long lines in the school’s front office.

Now for the fun part – letting your child get a taste of what kindergarten has to offer. All of our elementary schools offer what we call “Kindergarten Round-Up” events in the spring. This is a special time where both the child and their parents can learn what to expect. “I think it’s really important for the kids. They need to get that nice warm feeling that it’s going to be a good place to go in the fall,” says Marilou Andrews, Principal at Laurel Oak Elementary. She tells us you will not only learn about everything from transportation to the lunch process, but also get to visit the kindergarten classrooms and meet your future classmates. “Those are the first bonding moments. Those are the kids they are going to graduate with,” says Andrews. “Kindergarten Round-Up” events started taking place last month and will go through May. You can check the schedule on the district’s website at www. collierschools.com.

It is certainly hard to close the door on those little-kid years, the ones that go by so quickly. But now that you have all of the details, hopefully the journey into kindergarten will be a little less intimidating for both you and your child.

NEAPOLITANfamily • April 2015

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13

COLLIER COUNTY SCHOOL BOARD UPDATE

By Erika Donalds

Why Three Potential Start Dates for the 2015-16 School Year?

W

hen the winter holidays passed and we began the New Year, families started planning ahead for vacations, family visits, and summer camps. As a school board member, I was fielding questions about the 2015-2016 academic calendar as early as New Year’s Day! The new calendar is generally decided at the February school board meeting; however, the February meeting came and went, and, as of this writing, we still do not know when our students will start school in the fall. Why can’t the school board just make up our minds? Unfortunately it is not so simple. We are waiting on the state legislature to “legalize” the calendar that we feel is best for our students.

Our district has a calendar committee that works very hard to schedule around federal and religious holidays, state laws, and testing windows. At the February school board meeting, the calendar committee presented three options for the start Liddle Kidz Foundation of©school in 2015: August 10, August 17

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•

or August 24. Unfortunately, only one of the three options was permitted by state law at the time.

• August 10 gave us virtually the same number of days in both the first and second semesters (very important for semester courses) and would allow midterm exams before winter break. However, this also meant a shorter school year.

• August 17 had less balance of the number of days between first and second semester, and still allowed midterms before winter break. This also was closest to our start date for the 2014-2015 school year, August 18.

August 24 was the only legal option of the three presented! Existing Florida statutes stated that the school start date could be no more than two weeks before Labor Day. No midterms before winter break, no balance of days between semesters. Clearly, this legal start date was not the best option for our students.

Ultimately, the Collier school board passed the “legal” calendar to start school on August 24, 2015, with the caveat that if new state law allows, we will start on August 17, 2015.

School boards across the state, including Collier, had communicated the start date problem to the Florida legislature and to their local delegations. We asked for a change to state law to allow start dates to be

determined by the local district, not at the state level. Representative Mayfield in the Florida House and Senator Montford in the Florida Senate each filed a bill that would allow schools to start three weeks prior to Labor Day. A bill must be filed in each the House and the Senate in order to move forward through the legislative process.

As of this writing, the Florida House has incorporated an early start date fix into their Education Committee’s “Accountability and Assessments” Bill, which has passed through two committees on its way to the House Floor. The bill’s language allows a start date any time after August 10, and the Committee Chair made it clear to those objecting that they should take the issue up with their local school boards.

The Florida Senate bill has not had a hearing yet, but will be brought to its first committee shortly. Any new legislative bill must pass through several committees, with opportunities for amendments at each stop, before being voted on by the entire state House or Senate.

Setting the start date for our local school calendar seems like an easy task, but it is just one example of how state statutes can impact (and impede) local decisionmaking. As parents, community members, and public servants, we want education decisions to be made here at the local level, by those who are closest to our students.

Your continued engagement in the process will bring this to reality.

Keep watch on collierschools.com, or on my Facebook page ‘Erika Donalds’ for the final word on our 2015 school start date!

NEAPOLITANfamily • April 2015

NEAPOLITANfamily • April 2015

neafamily.com

15

CITY CONNECTION PARKS DEPT. By Laura Tichy-Smith

online AUGUST

City of Naples Community Services April Activities

W

ith all these great activities at our city parks offered by the City of Naples Community Services Department, let’s hope the April showers only fall late at night!

School’s Out Fun Day for Grades K thru 5th Need childcare when school is closed but you have to work? River Park has planned fun activities for your child’s day off from school, including crafts, games and sports.

Fun Days runs 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. You must register no later than one week prior to the event. April 3 and April 6. $25 per child. To register, call River Park 213-3037.

Browse Our E-Magazine Read complete issues of Neapolitan FamSensational Saturday ily on your desktop computer or mobile (Ages 5 — 22) device. To access: Neafamily.com → Digital → Click on issue you’d like to read.take a nap Need a Saturday to run errands,

or just take a break? River Park has you Take UsonWherever You9Go covered April 25 from a.m. to 2 p.m.

Neapolitan Family features responsive web A morning swim, a craft, playground time design, so our pages adjust to kid to and pizza for web lunch equals a tired whatever portable device you use. pick up. $20.

Pre-registration is Access required. our resources, directories, publications, For more information, call 239-213-3037. calendar andisnews updates 24/7.11th Street River Park located at 301 North, Naples.

E-Newsletter

work and enrichment time. Held Monday to Friday from 2:45-6 p.m. (also open on all early release days). $50/week for first child and $45/week for siblings (inquire for partial week rates). Call 239-248-6122 to register. Fleischmann Park is located at 1600 Fleishmann Blvd., Naples.

Baby Fitness (18 months and up)

Instill healthy habits for life in your toddler by attending the drop-in class called Mommy and Me Open Gym on Fridays from 10 — 11:30 a.m. $5 per child. For more information, call 239-213-3020.

Fleischmann Park is located at 1600 FleishWeb Only Contests mann Blvd., Naples.

We offer great contests for our web readers.

To find out about our current contest: Art with Miss Beth Neafamily.com → Contests.

Calling all creative boys and girls to this Web Content new artOnly class that will explore many forms We2D update our art. webMake site daily withpieces new of of and 3D unique articles, news and local information.

You’ll art with ordinary and extraordinary things. also find an archive of print articles as well Held Thursdays April 2–April 30 from as web-only articles with everything from 3:15–4:30 p.m.; $60. To register, call 239travel information to crafts projects.

213-3020.

Fleischmann Park is located at 1600 Fleishmann Blvd., Naples.

Updated Calendar

Neapolitan Family sendsSolutions out an eAfterschool newsletter every Thursday filled with fun events for the upcoming week. To sign The Adventures and Gymnastics Clubup:at Neafamily.comPark → click on thegreat newsletter Fleischmann offers fun with graphicactivity box at the top offor each page. many choices your child. Your

We updateKick the calendar frequently and Get Fit adding newwith eventsMartial that come Arts in afterClasses the print publication deadlines. Check often to see what is goingPark on inoffers Naples and surrounding Fleischmann martial arts classes areas.

There as is young NOT aasbetter calendar of for children 5. Choices include events available locally.

Judo on Mondays and Wednesdays at

child will participate in gymnastics and sports fitness classes as well as daily home-

6:30 – 7:45 p.m., Couong Nhu Karate on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 6 – 8 p.m.,

The Music Studio of Naples • Your resource for private music instruction–all instruments and styles.

• Specializing in voice and piano.

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and Muai Thai Kick Boxing on Mondays at and Wedensdays from 4:30 – 5:30 p.m.

Call 239-213-3020 for prices, dates and registration. Fleischmann Park is located at 1600 Fleishmann Blvd., Naples.

NEAFAMILY.COM

Free Concerts at the Bandshell Concert season continues in April with these events your whole family will enjoy.

Bring a blanket and enjoy jazz concerts in Cambier Park. Concert schedule: Naples Dixie Land Jazz Band, Sunday, April 5 (2 – 4 p.m.); Naples Jazz Orchestra, Monday, April 6 (7 pm – 9 pm); Naples Concert Band, Friday, April 12 (2 – 4 p.m.); Gulf Coast Big Band, Sunday, April 19 (2 – 4 This month’s p.m.); Naples web-only Dixie Landarticles: Jazz Band, Sunday, April 26 (2 – 4 p.m.). For more • First Day of School information, call 213-3058. Cambier Park Cute photo ideas, is located at 755 Eighth celebrations to markAvenue the South, Naples. new school year and

afterschool activities.

Come On In, The Water’s Free!

• Cover Kids Contest The new River Park Aquatic Center is open.

Find the rules for our cover kids Featuring funplus for everyone, poolchild! admission contest enter your is free to residents of Collier County. The kids will love the beach-like shallow end • August Fun with One tank trips, fun fall play fountains, dump buckets and wadestinations and fall ter slide, while the grownups will enjoy the vacation planning. lap swimming exercise lanes. Parents will rest assured their children are in good hands • Educational Resources with the Red Cross certified lifeguards.

Book suggestions, craft ideas Open Monday –Saturday 10 a.m.–5 p.m. and more. and Sunday 12 –5 p.m. For information, call 239-213-3040. River Park is located at 301 11th Street North, Naples.

LITTLE PEOPLE’S SCHOOL • For 2-5 year olds 868 94th Ave. N, Naples (239) 597-5064

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17

HOLIDAYS

By Kerrie McLoughlin

Earth Day Lessons for Your Kids Earth Day is April 25.

Celebrate with your kids by educating them on how they can make small changes that will have a huge impact!

M

y mother has been a recycler ever since I can remember. I have a vivid memory of her haranguing my dad’s family about recycling on a group vacation. She actually picked aluminum cans out of the trash while griping about landfills and started a special recycle spot in the condo. I’m sure everyone thought she was insane, but now I am pretty much the same way with recycling.

This year, April 22 marks 45 years since Earth Day became an official movement, and I enjoy teaching my own kids why we have Earth Day and how we can better care for our planet. Earth Day is a great opportunity to teach some great lessons to your kids.

Earth Day Lesson #1 Stand up for what you believe in. We laugh about the story of my mom on vacation, but we are proud of her for standing up for the Earth even when she was seen as strange and picky.

Earth Day Lesson #2 You can have an idea and put it into action with a lot of hard work. Earth Day was born from the mind of a U.S. senator from Wisconsin who was outraged about a 1969 oil spill in California. He saw all the anti-Vietnam War demonstrations and hoped he could channel that kind of energy instead into caring about the environment.

Earth Day Lesson #3 Look around and pay attention and don’t settle for doing things the way they always have been done. The idea of caring for the Earth was widely promoted and the result was 20 million

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• Top Rated VPK • Preschool Classes • Summer Camp www.LittlePeoplesSchool.info NEAPOLITANfamily • April 2015

Americans standing up for the rights of the environment and protesting the mistreatment of it. Up until that point, most people were not thinking much about smog, oil spills, pesticides, and what kind of damage driving our cars was doing. Raising awareness of these problems started to incrementally change everything. Earth Day 1990 is what gave that big push toward recycling and the result is seeing a huge recycling bin at the end of practically every driveway in America.

Earth Day Lesson #4 Sometimes doing worthwhile things is not easy. Recycling can be a pain one day, but then the next day you buy a product that is made from 100% recycled materials and you see that what you are doing really does make a difference.

Earth Day Lesson #5 It doesn’t just have to be about bottles and cans and cardboard.

You can recycle clothing by donating to thrift stores. The Natural Resources Defense Council says that “the average American now discards 68 pounds of clothing a year, wasting energy, water and landfill space.” Composting, refilling used ink cartridges, cloth diapering, reusing shopping bags or using cloth instead, and community gardening are just a few more ideas.

Of course there are terrific books on Earth Day that you should check out for your kids, and there are wonderful crafts you can find as well. While reading these books and doing these crafts, why not take a few moments to impart some deeper lessons too? Happy Earth Day! KERRIE MCLOUGHLIN is the homeschooling mom of five who enjoys Earth Day and blogs at TheKerrieShow.com.

Registration begins April 20th

Local Earth Day Events April 4 • 9:00 am.

Party for the Planet Annual Earth Day Event.

The 2015 Party for the Planet hosted by the nation’s Association of Zoo and Aquarium’s accredited institutions promises to be one of the largest Earth Day celebrations on record.

Millions of zoo and aquarium visitors across North America will party for the planet with family fun and a renewed commitment to wildlife conservation. This year Naples Zoo joins the party again by hosting a variety of conservation partners. Located at 1590 Goodlette Road, Naples. Call 239-262-5409 or check www.caribbeangardens.com for additional information.

April 18 • 10:00 am until 4:00 pm Earth Day Festival at the Conservancy of Southwest Florida Featuring guest speakers, live music, festival food, exhibits, crafts, live animal programs,

boat rides, and more. The first 50 guests will receive a free t-shirt. For more information, visit www.conservancy.org/earthday or call 239-262-0304.

April 18 • 5:00 pm Movie in the Park and Earth Day Event. Free showing of Dr. Seuss–The Lorax. Free face painting, movie themed games and a Dr. Seuss photo booth area. Held at Riverside Park, Bonita Springs. Call 239-949-6262 for additional information.

April 22 • 9am-4pm Buy One, Get One Free Admission at Rookery Bay. Rookery Bay Environmental Learning Center offers “buy one, get one free admission” in honor of Earth Day and will be showing a selection of Earth Day films. Rookery Bay Environmental Learning Center is located at 300 Tower Road, Naples.

Call 239-530-5972 for information.

Covenant Church of Naples Vacation Bible School June 22-26, 2015 • 8:45am-12 noon Free Vacation Bible School for children from 3 years old to entering 6th grade.

239.597.3464

Covenant Church of Naples

6926 Trail Blvd., Naples, FL 34108 • www.covenantnaples.com NEAPOLITANfamily • April 2015

neafamily.com

19

YOUR CHILD SPECIAL NEEDS By Judy M. Miller

7 Habits of Highly Effective Parents of Children with Special Needs

M

any parents of special needs children appear to parent with grace, balance, and energy. In addition they also seem remarkably stressfree and organized. How, in the face of all of these challenges and more, do they keep it together? What habits do they embrace that allow them to be highly effective parents for their children?

Habit One: They are proactive and advocate for their children and educate others.

Parents become experts about their children and their needs. They conduct ongoing research; ask questions of therapists, doctors, specialists, and other professionals; and keep an organized binder full of notes and important information. They create and add to their at-home special needs libraries. They are knowledgeable about vernacular, treatments, and services. They are well versed in the state and federal laws

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that regulate services for their children.

Because of their knowledge parents are effective educators of their child’s faculty and staff. They are powerful advocates for treatment, services, and support-in and outside of school.

Habit Two: They maintain a sense of “normalcy” within the family.

Effective parents realize that although everyone in the family is affected by their child’s disorder, they are not defined by it. Parents work to ensure that siblings have childhoods and do not take on adult responsibilities. They encourage siblings to spend time with their friends.

Parents are proactive about training other family members, friends and sitters about how to care for their child so that they can have time for themselves-individually and as a couple, perhaps going out on weekly dates. They also spend time in the company of other adult friends.

April is Autism Awareness MOnth

Habit Three: They take care of themselves.

Parents nurture their needs, and recognize that doing so is important for themselves as well as their children. Effective parents address themselves holistically, meaning they take care of their physical, emotional, psychological, and spiritual needs.

They eat nutritious unprocessed food and don’t skip meals. They make sure their bodies are properly hydrated.

They schedule time for regular exercise, by themselves or with friends. They engage in activities that offer creative or intellectual enrichment.

Habit Four: They Manage Their Stress Effective parents are intentional about reducing stress in their lives by setting time aside each day to promote calm and centering. They adopt practices such as prayer, deep breathing and meditation to replenish their inner reserves. Rebecca, a mom of a NEAPOLITANfamily • April 2015

son who has a diagnosis of autism, says, “When in doubt I choose grace, to forgive people for letting me down or for rejecting my son, for whatever reason.”

When parents lead lives that are stress-free and balanced, all family members, especially children, win. Research, by the Gottman Institute supports that children fare better emotionally, socially, and academically when parents manage their stress properly.

Habit Five: They make rest a priority.

While any parent can tire in their parenting responsibilities, parenting a child with special needs can elevate fatigue to a whole different level. Sometime parents don’t realize the extent of their exhaustion. I didn’t.

My child’s physical therapist pointed this out to me.

Effective parents realize the importance of getting to bed as early as possible, or taking naps to offset the sleep they lose due to their child’s irregular sleep patternsup and down throughout the night, late to bed, and/or early to rise.

Habit Six: They surround themselves with energy givers.

People are either energy zappers or energy givers. Effective parents opt to spend time in the company of people who lift them up, make them feel confident, positive, and happy. They realize energy givers help them to feel energized, inspired and motivated.

Parents of special needs children appreciate and need this energy.

Habit Seven: They have a support group.

Parenting a child with special needs can be lonely, however there is no need to be alone in the journey. Effective parents are part of or have created a group of parents whose parenting journeys are similar to theirs.

Christy, a single mother of a child with mental health issues shares, “I’ve found that meeting and sharing with people who have raised children with similar issues helps me.

They understand what I deal with without me having to explain it. Their support helps me to be calm when I’m with my child.”

Yoga for Children with Special Needs T

he children that came skipping, bounding or dragging their heels into the yoga studio wore their various moods in their gait. When they saw Yoga Bob appear, they happily found their mats, in the same configuration as the previous class, and a few even shouted “Hi Yoga Bob!” Yoga Bob is Bob Newman, a volunteer yoga instructor who, together with yoga instructor Melanie Solis, teaches yoga for autistic and special needs children from Easter Seal’s Lily Academy in Naples.

Solis volunteered to start the yoga class two years ago after speaking with a friend who is the parent of an autistic child. She approached Bala Vinyasa Yoga to donate the studio time and space.

Many adults appreciate yoga as a way to develop physical and emotional strength through holding asanas (positions), breathing, meditation and focus. These same activities can benefit children with special needs as well.

According to Louise Goldberg, author of Yoga Therapy for Children with Autism and Special Needs, “Yoga therapy is not dependent on language or cognitive abilities.

It is a therapy that meets children wherever they are.” The focus on mental calmness also helps the child to realize a strength that he or she did not know he or she has.

Children with autism typically have sensory experiences that create intense anxiety due to their highly sensitive nervous systems, and learning to meditate is a skill that they can use outside of the studio.

Nonverbal students often are still able to follow a sequence of poses that improves motor skills as well as balance and coordination. These sequences also create a consistent atmosphere and a sense of order

by Stacy Nicolau

that the students crave. Using the same yoga instruction and mats in the same configuration week after week also builds their trust and confidence.

Solis and Newman maintain a consistent routine for their students, who attend the class every other week. They begin and end with songs and chanting and often play music throughout the session.

Solis believes that the structure of the class together with the stretching and breathing provides a relaxing outlet for the elementary through high school-aged students. She says that while they all seem to want to be there, some students may choose just to observe the class only to join in on the songs at the end. “It takes time to build their trust,” she explains.

Newman, who also teaches children’s yoga at BKS Yoga Studio, has noticed that the students become more social during the class. One moment that stands out to him was when a typically nonverbal child whispered “thank you” to him after he corrected her yoga posture. Now, that girl will say “Goodbye, Yoga Bob,” at the end of every class.

The class ends with a seven-minute guided meditation meant to quiet the mind while the children lay still. They know by now that even if they feel the urge to squirm that they must stay on their mat. Newman remarks that most of the children know the final chant, which involves a fourword call and response in Sanskrit. Loosely translated, it means “all creatures great and small be free.”

For more information about yoga opportunities for the special needs child: Bala Vinyasa Yoga 239-598-1938 BKS Yoga 239-213-9276 Easter Seals Lily Academy 239-384-5620

JUDY M. MILLER is a mom to four fantastic kiddos--three with special needs. She is the author of the parent guide, What To Expect From Your Adopted Tween.

NEAPOLITANfamily • April 2015

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FAMILY FUN By Andrea Breznay

Why Our Kids Dig Dinosaurs Kids and their love and appreciation of dinosaurs – it’s a common interest that seems to be renewed with each new crop of preschoolers.

So, why do our kids love dinosaurs so much?

W

hat is it about these prehistoric beasts that is so captivating to young, developing minds? The simplest reason is that dinosaurs are huge, much bigger than grown ups. To small children who depend upon the adults in their lives for almost everything, a huge creature like the dinosaur is pretty intriguing. It’s fun to imagine mowing down the enemy or stomping over the land.

Dinosaurs also mix fantasy and fact which appeals to a child’s sense of curiosity.

According to dinosaur expert Bob Strauss, kids love dinosaurs for 3 reasons:

1.

Dinosaurs are big, scary AND extinct. With their vivid imaginations, kids can imagine being lunch for a fierce lion or menacing tiger. Dinosaurs don’t create that kind of fear in children because children know dinosaurs don’t exist.

There is no chance of running into one and that renders them safe to a child.

2.

Dinosaurs get to do what they want. They are big, they are powerful and they roam freely. No one tells a dinosaur to eat its dinner or that it’s time for bed. It has control over its life, that’s appealing to children. Plus, most popular books about dinosaurs reinforce the notion that the dinosaur is in charge.

3.

Dinosaurs leave really cool skeletons. The skeleton of a giant dinosaur is pretty awesome. Many kids prefer seeing the skeleton to the animated version they might see in a movie or television show or the drawings in a book. Taking children to see a real skeleton at a museum will leave them awestruck.

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NEAPOLITANfamily • April 2015

Dinosaurs obviously are a great source of entertainment for both children and their parents, but dinosaurs also are a great way to teach young children. Having an interest provides to perfect hook to draw children into the study of life and earth science. Dinosaurs also serve as a fun introduction to all sorts of educational activities like counting and measuring, vocabulary and art. Finally, dinosaur play is nothing if not creative. The array of dinosaur-related activities is endless.

If your child is in the dinosaur-phase, encourage this interest with activities, movies, books and free play. You also can take your child to the Naples Botanical Gardens for “Dinosaurs Unearthed.”

This special exhibit features life-sized replicas in two gardens: the Kathleen and Scott Kapnick Brazilian Garden and the Karen and Robert Scott Florida Garden. And in the Vicky C. and David Byron Smith Children’s Garden, a Tyrannosaurus Rex photo opportunity and fossil dig pit will be available for the duration of the exhibit.

Unearthed: Dinosaurs in the Garden will be included with regular admission and take place during regular hours. The exhibition runs through July 5. Check naplesgarden.org for additional information or to purchase tickets.

DINOSAUR ACTIVITY ONLINE RESOURCES: http://magazine.fourseasons.com/travel-food-style/kids-family/ dinosaur-museums • A comprehensive list of the world’s best museums for dinosaur-loving children. www.scholastic.com/teachers/lesson-plan/dinosaurs-teachersguide • This teacher’s guide has some fun activities that parents can adapt for home use. www.kidsdinos.com • Dinosaur games and activities, the site has great sound effects.

10 DINOSAUR-THEMED MOVIES THAT WON’T GIVE YOUR CHILD NIGHTMARES: The Land Before Time Dinosaur Prehistoric Park Ice Age: Dawn of the Dinosaurs Dinotopia: Quest for the Ruby Sunstone Dinosaurs: Giants of Patagonia Bob the Builder: The Big Dino Movie Walking With Dinosaurs: The Movie We’re Back: The Dinosaur Story Adventures in Dinosaur City (list is from the website kidspot.com) NEAPOLITANfamily • April 2015

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Enroll your Star in our award-winning Child’s Path Preschool today and receive a special discount!

Eva!!!

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Child’s Path Preschool provides a creative and healthy learning environment for children ages 2-5. Services include kindergarten readiness, VPK and age appropriate behavioral tools that cultivate academic, social and emotional development for your young star provided by our experienced and nurturing staff.

Child’s Path’s educational philosophy is to give each child a positive experience where they can build a healthy self-esteem. Maybe that’s why our fun, hands-on approach to learning has been voted the Choice Star Award for “BEST PRESCHOOL” by the readers of Naples Daily News.

Enroll your child today to receive this special discount and start them on their path to success!

The Path to Success Begins Here!

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ChildsPath.org 3144 Santa Barbara Blvd., Naples Monday - Friday 7:00am - 5:30pm 239-353-4144 info@childspath.org

NEAPOLITANfamily • April 2015

YOUR COMMUNITY NEWS & EVENTS

David Lawrence Center Young Executives and Gulf Coast Runners Co- Host Beach Bum 5k April 11th

T

he David Lawrence Center Young Executives, a group consisting of a broad cross section of business professionals and others from throughout Collier County whose mission is to build awareness of the David Lawrence Center and Foundation, will partner with Gulf Coast Runners to present the Beach Bum 5k on April 11, 2015 at 7:30 a.m.

The fun, family friendly (non-chipped) 3.1 mile morning walk/run on beautiful Naples Beach starts at Lowdermilk Park and includes refreshments, great giveaways and race apparel and opportunities to win unique prizes. Awards will be given to the Top Three Overall Male and Female participants.

Adult registration is $15 until March 31st, $20 until April 10th, and $25 on race day. Students (18 and Under) are $10. Register online at DavidLawrenceCenter.org.

Proceeds from race registrations will be shared between David Lawrence Center to support programs and services, and Gulf Coast Runners Youth Development Fund to help defray college expenses for area youth. Sponsorship revenue solicited on behalf of the David Lawrence Center Young Executives will benefit solely the David Lawrence Center. For additional donations and sponsorship opportunities call the David Lawrence Foundation at (239) 304-3505.

David Lawrence Center is the Southwest Florida-based, notfor-profit leading provider of behavioral health solutions dedicated to inspiring and creating life-changing wellness for every individual.

The Center provides innovative, comprehensive inpatient, outpatient, residential and community based prevention and treatment services for the one in four local children and adults who experience mental health, emotional, psychological and substance abuse challenges.

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“Seven Brides For Seven Brothers!” at Broadway Palm

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he national tour of Seven Brides for Seven Brothers is making its final stop in Fort Myers on the Broadway Palm stage from April 9 through May 23, 2015. The stage version of the popular MGM movie comes to life on stage. Seven Brides for Seven Brothers is a high-energy musical combining the classic, physical dancing styles with fun and energetic situations.

Get your tickets today for the rip-roarin’, high-kicking classic Seven Brides For Seven Brothers. Performances are Tuesday through Sunday evenings with selected matinees. Beginning in May, performances are Wednesday through Sunday with selected matinees. Ticket prices range from $37 to $60 with group discounts available for parties of 20 or more. Tickets are now on sale and can be reserved by calling (239) 278-4422, by visiting www.BroadwayPalm.com, or by stopping by the box office at 1380 Colonial Boulevard in Fort Myers.

NEAPOLITANfamily • April 2015

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25

YOUR COMMUNITY NEWS & EVENTS

Balloons Over Paradise Festival

WHERE SOMETHING IS ALWAYS HAPPENING

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Glow Bowling Family Special Group Functions

Birthday Parties Great Menu So Much More!

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Nemo’s awesome menu!

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Beacon Bowl N. Tamiami Tr. Naples 597-3452

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eminole Casino Immokalee will bring its fourth annual Balloons Over Paradise Festival to the Seminole Tribe Youth Ranch, April 11-12, starting at 6 a.m. daily. The two-day event will feature 60 hot air balloons, delicious food, arts & crafts, tethered balloon rides, classic car show, dog agility performances, a polo exhibition and an equestrian drill team performance. Admission is free to the all-ages festival.

Festival-goers will be able to walk among the balloons as they inflate for a mass ascension into the sky.

Parking for the event is free at Seminole Casino Immokalee. Pets and coolers are not permitted.

For more information about the 4th Annual Balloons Over Paradise Festival, visit www.seminoleimmokaleecasino.com.

Enrollment Now Open For 2015-2016 Voluntary Pre-Kindergarten

A Getting the

Perfect Prom Dress

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Girls | Boys | Teens | Adults

239.431.8440

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Shops at Vanderbilt

(between Toast & The Good Life)

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2355 Vanderbilt Beach Road, Suite 168 Naples FL 34108

pplications are now being accepted to enroll children in the Voluntary Pre-kindergarten (VPK) education program for the 2015-2016 school year. VPK does not have any income requirements and is free for all children four years old on or before September 1st of the program year.

The VPK program helps prepare every four-year-old for kindergarten and increases his or her chances of continued educational success.

Parents have the option to enroll their child in a program that offers a total of 540 education classroom hours during a traditional school year or an option of 300 educational classroom hours in a summer program. Parents have the option to apply with assistance at the Early Learning Coalition of Southwest Florida (ELC) or online at vpkcp. floridaearlylearning.com or through the ELC website at www.elcofswfl. org under the parent tab. To make an appointment with the ELC, please call (239) 935-6100.

In order to receive a certificate for the program, parents must submit proof of birth to verify the child’s age and proof of Florida residency. After the documents are submitted and approved by the ELC, parents will receive an email informing them to download the certificate (online applicants only). The certificate should then be signed by the parent and taken to the provider to complete. The provider then returns the completed certificate to the ELC office for processing. Deadlines are posted on the ELC’s website. Classrooms with less than 4 children will not be enrolled.

NEAPOLITANfamily • April 2015

YOUR COMMUNITY NEWS & EVENTS

Your Kids Are First With Us

Kids Free Bowling Registration Open

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oodside and Beacon Lanes in Naples are once again participating in the summer’s Kids Free Bowling program.

Children are eligible to register for 2 free games a day, all summer long, courtesy of Woodside and Beacon Bowl along with the schools and organizations.

The registration website also offers a Family Pass option that allows for up to 4 adults to bowl 2 free games every day all summer too. It’s only $24.95 at your center and it allows parents, older children, adult babysitters and grandparents to join in the bowling fun too.

Visit www.KidsBowlFree.com to register and sign up for alerts.

Woodside Lanes is located at 8525 Radio Lane, Naples, 239-4553755. Beacon Bowl is at 5400 Tamiami Trail N, Naples, 239- 5973452. Check www.bowlandcenters.com for additional information.

Full S.T.E.A.M. Ahead Enrichment Program Opens

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ull S.T.E.A.M. Ahead is a new enrichment program for the arts and sciences run by two Collier County public school teachers.

Hilary and Ryan Shore have developed new and innovative ways to teach students valuable skills, all while providing a home for students to explore new interests and talents without the stress of a test looming over their heads.

The program consists of summer camps and fall/spring group classes covering a wide range of topics including Science, technology, Engineering, Art and Music. Tutoring in the academic subjects as well as private music classes are available.

Full S.T.E.A.M. Ahead is located at St. John the Evangelist, 625 111th Avenue North, Naples. For more information call (856) 2201931 or check fullsteamaheadfl.com.

Kids First Pediatrics Accepting Patients

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ids First Pediatrics is a practice that believes in the “old concept” of medical home for patients. Their mission is to provide the most up to date pediatric knowledge with personalized continuity of care and develop personal relationship with our kids and their families.

Services include well child care, immunizations including an alternative immunization schedule, sick child visits, prenatal consultations, ADHD evaluation and treatment and allergy testing and treatment.

Dr Mariliz Borbon Bumgarner is Board Certified Pediatrician.

She completed her pediatric training at the University of South Florida at All Children’s Hospital and Tampa General Hospital. She has lived and worked in SWFL since 2007. Dr Borbon Bumgarner speaks spanish fluently.

Kids First is located at 5667 Naples Blvd., Suite 7A, Naples. For additional information or to schedule an appointment call 239-4316413 or check www.kids1stMd.com.

NEAPOLITANfamily • April 2015

Our pediatric practice believes in the “old concept” of medical care for our patients. Our mission is to provide the most upto-date pediatric knowledge with personalized continuity of care. We pride ourselves on developing personal relationships with our patients.

We accept all major We offer: credit cards

All commercial ins urance welcome • Well Child Care Mariliz Borbon • Immunizations Bumgarner, M.D • Alternative .

Immunization 5667 Naples Blvd ., Schedule Suite 7A, Naples • Acute (Sick) Visit w w w .kids1stMd.com • Prenatal Consultations • ADHD Evaluation and Treatment • Allergy Testing and Treatment We speak Spanish!

239-431-6413

Our Educated and Dedicated Staff Encourages Creative, Expressive, Hands on Learning Your child will receive quality interaction with our low student-teacher ratios and will enjoy our spacious, shaded, fun-filled play area.

Serving children Infant - age 5 VPK Certified

Full-day, Half-day and partial week schedules available Where your child’s needs are our only priority.

727 108th Ave., Naples • 597-5748 License #C20C07416 smallworldelc@embarqmail.com • www.smallworldnaples.com neafamily.com

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NEAPOLITANfamily • April 2015

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5:30 PM. Book Tasting at Naples Regional Library. We’ll discuss popular books and pair them with snacks. Bring your own favorite book to talk about. For grades 3 and up. Held at Naples Regional Library, 650 Central Avenue, Naples.

Call 239-262-6853 or check http://public. collier-lib.org for additional information.

11 AM. Summer Camp Fair at Mercato Shops. Your one-stop shop to over 20 summer camps and programs.

Come and check out the Kids Zone with bounce house, lawn games, face painting, balloon artistry, photo booth and giveaways. Call 239-2541080 or check mercatoshops.com for additional information.

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12:00 PM. Free Cone Day at Ben & Jerry’s.

As a special thank you another year of support, Ben & Jerry’s is giving out free cones between noon and 8pm. Located at 4320 Gulfshore Blvd. N., Venetian Village, Naples.

Check http://www.benjerry.com/scoop-shops/ free-cone-day for more information.

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4:00 PM. Robotic at Golden Gate Library.

Trisha Aldridge from 4-H Extension Services will be here to present a series of six programs to introduce you to the science of robots utilizing LEGO Mindstorms.

Ages 11-17. Located at 2432 Lucerne Road, Naples. Call 239-2524542 or check http:// public.collier-lib.org for additional information.

10:30 AM. Janet Ruth Science Sleuth at Headquarters Library.

A series of programs to guide preschool children through some of the mysteries of science. Open to ages 4-5 years. Registration required. Located at 2385 Orange Blossom Drive, Naples. Call 239-593-0870 or check http://public.collier-lib.org for additional information.

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2:00 PM. Free Concerts at the Bandshell. Bring a blanket for the whole family and enjoy free jazz concerts in Cambier Park. Located at 755 8th Ave. S., Naples.

Call 239-213-3058 for information.

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4:00 PM. LEGO Club at Estates Branch Library. Share ideas, be creative, make new friends and have fun!

LEGO® bricks will be provided. Open to ages 5-11 years. Registration is not required. Located at 1266 Golden Gate Blvd. W., Naples. Call 239-455-8088 or check http://public.collier-lib.org for additional information.

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9:00 AM. Upcycle Art Fest. An artistic venue to showcase fine art and craft of the highest quality made from recycled and repurposed material.

Held at J.N. Ding Darling National Wildlife Refuge, 1 Wildlife Drive, Sanibel.

Call 239-292-0566 for information.

wednesday

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10:30 AM. The Way We Worked: Police at Marco Island Library.

Come enjoy stories, songs and activities all about policemen and how they work. There will be police officers visiting story time who will show us their police car. 210 S. Heathwood Drive, Marco Island. 239-394-3272 or check http://public. collier-lib.org.

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5:00 PM. Pine Ridge Middle School Colorsplash Fitness Walk and 5K. Registration includes T-shirt, sunglasses, two food tickets and entertainment. To register go to www.pineridgemiddlepto.org/colorsplash5K. html. Located at 1515 Pine Ridge Road, Naples.

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6:00 PM. Mercato Nights Music Series: Betty Fox Band.

Free music event on the Mercato lawn across from Silverspot Cinema. Lawn chairs and pets welcome.

Located at 9128 Strada Place, Naples. Call 239594-9400 for additional information.

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6:00 PM. IMCP Movie Night. Family movie with popcorn and drink. $5.

Held at Immokalee Community Park, 321 North 1st Street, Immokalee.

Call (239) 657-4449 for additional information.

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6:00 PM. GGCC Kids Trivia Night. Bring your child to the battle of the minds. $8. Located at Golden Gate Community Center, 4701 Golden Gate Pkwy, Naples. Call 239-252-4180 or check http://colliergov.net for additional information.

9:00 AM. Wild Animal Easter Egg Hunt. The animals at Naples Zoo will rip into giant papier-mâché eggs stuffed with their favorite treats – raw meat, insects and fruit. Located at 1590 Goodlette-Frank Road, Naples. Call 239262-5409 or check www. caribbeangardens.com for additional information.

Event runs April 3-5.

friday

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10:00 AM. Earth Day Festival at the Conservancy. Live animal shows, special programs, live music, local vendors and exhibits. Located at 1495 Smith Preserve Way, Naples. Call 239262-0304 or check www. conservancy.org for additional information.

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6:00 AM. Balloons Over Paradise. 60 custom hot air balloons and plenty of fun including tethered balloon rides, alligator wrestling, food vendors, children’s activities, carnival games, polo, a classic car show. 506 South 1st Street, Immokalee. 239-658-1313 or www.seminolecasinoevents.com for information. Runs through Sunday, April 12.

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9:00 AM. Party for the Planet Annual Earth Day Event. This year Naples Zoo joins the party again by hosting a variety of conservation partners. Located at 1590 Goodlette Road, Naples.

Call 239-262-5409 or check www.caribbeangardens.com for additional information.

saturday

Best Bets

5:00 PM. Petting Zoo at East Naples Library. Naples Live Stock 4H Club will bring some of their 4H animals for us to see and pet. Open to ages 2 years and older.

Located at 8787 Tamiami Trail East, Naples. Call 239-775-5592 or check http://public.collier-lib.org for additional information.

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9:00 AM. Parents Appreciation Day at Whole Foods. New parents, we appreciate you for everything you do. Please be sure to stop by for one free coffee or tea and a pastry from our fresh-baked pastry case.

Located at 9101 Strada Place, Naples. Call 239552-5100 for additional information.

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3:00 PM. PFLAG Eighth Annual Interfaith Convocation.

People of all faiths are invited to worship together.

Held at Naples United Church of Christ, 5200 Crayton Road, Naples.

Check http://www.pflagnaples.org for additional information.

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7:00 PM. Naples Philharmonic Youth Orchestra Spring Concert. The Naples Philharmonic Youth Orchestra performs beloved classical works for a variety of musical eras. Artis-Naples is located at 5833 Pelican Bay Boulevard, Naples.

Call (239) 597-1111 or check http://artisnaples. org for ticket information.

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4:00 PM. Robotics at Vanderbilt Beach Library. By using principles of programming, physical science and mathematics, we’ll program the robots to go through a small obstacle course. Open to ages 8-12 years. Located at 788 Vanderbilt Beach Road, Naples. Call 239597-8444 or check http:// public.collier-lib.org.

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8:00 PM. Movies on the Lawn: Wall-E. Free movie on the lawn across from Silverspot Cinema.

Please no coolers or outside food. Lawn chairs, blankets and well-behaved pets welcome. Located at 9128 Strada Place, Naples. Call 239-5949400 or check www. mercatoshops.com for additional information.

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6:00 PM. Free Admission to The Baker Museum. A local band offers musical entertainment and audiences of all ages are welcome to view the galleries and learn from our docents. Located at 5833 Pelican Bay Blvd, Naples. Call 239597-1900 for additional information.

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4:00 PM. Monopoly Tournament at Naples Regional Library. Team up with friends for this twoday after school tournament. Registration is not required for this program.

Located at 650 Central Avenue, Naples. Call 239262-6853 or check http:// public.collier-lib.org for additional information.

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6:00 PM. Temple Shalom Preschool 25th Anniversary & Art Show. At this adults only event, guests will see beautiful artwork created by the students, enjoy cocktails and hors d’oeurves, bid on amazing silent auction items. Located at 4630 Pine Ridge Road, Naples. 239-4553227, www.naplestemple. org/study/preschool.

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11 AM. Araba Shrine Circus. Held at Lee Civic Center, 11831 Bayshore Road, Fort Myers. Call 239-543-8368 for additional information. Shows also held at 3 PM and 7:30 PM.

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8:00 AM. Great Strides Walk for Cystic Fibrosis. Walk to raise funds for cystic fibrosis followed by food, entertainment and children’s activities. For more information go to http:// tampa.cff.org/greatstrides or call 813-3749041. Held at Vineyards Community Park, 6231 Arbor Road, Naples.

YOUR COMMUNITY April EVENTS CALENDAR SUBMISSIONS: To submit your event for both our online and print calendars go to www. neafamily.com and follow the instructions for setting up a calendar account and inputting event information.

The deadline for print calendar events is the 12th of the month preceding publication. You can submit events anytime for the online calendar.

1 WEDNESDAY 8:30 AM. Free Tigertail Beach Walks.

Held at Tigertail Beach, 490 Hernando Drive, Marco Island. Meet your Conservancy of Southwest Florida volunteer guides at the kiosk for a walking tour of this natural beach.

Site #73 on the “Great Florida Birding Trail”.

The tidal lagoon and mudflats offer great views of many of the Gulf Coast’s seasonal and yearround avian residents such as ospreys, pelicans, plovers, sandpipers, egrets, herons and roseate spoonbills, some of which are rare or endangered. Walks are 1-2 hours. Bring water shoes and binoculars. For directions, go to www. conservancy.org/nature-center/nature-walks.

Held every Monday-Friday (except holidays).

10:00 AM. Free Kids Crafts at Miromar Outlets. Kids from toddlers to twelve are invited to participate in free fun activities.

Located at 10801 Corkscrew Rd, Estero. Call 239- 948-3766 or check www.miromaroutlets. com for additional information. Held weekly on Wednesday.

9:00 AM. Upcycle Art Fest. In the spirit of “Ding” Darling, Upcycle, Art Fest provides an artistic venue to showcase fine art and craft of

the highest quality made from recycled and repurposed material. It will also educate and entertain the public on the importance of recycling and ultimately protecting our wildlife.

Held at J.N. Ding Darling National Wildlife Refuge, 1 Wildlife Drive, Sanibel. Call 239292-0566 for information.

9:00 AM. Whole Foods Farmer’s Market.

Held on the front patio. Located at 9101 Strada Place, Naples. Call 239-552-5100 or check www.wholefoodsmarket.com/stores/ naples for additional information. Held weekly on Wednesday.

10:00 AM. Family Story Time at South Regional Library. This program is for the whole family and lasts about 30 minutes. Registration is required. 21100 Three Oaks Parkway, Estero. Call 239-479-4636 for information.

Held weekly on Wednesday.

10:30 AM. Family Story Time at Bonita Springs Library. This program is for the whole family and lasts about 30 minutes. Located at 26876 Pine Avenue, Bonita Springs.

Call 239-992-0101 for additional information.

Held weekly on Wednesday.

2:00 PM. April Foolishness! At South County Regional Library, the fun is in the

Mom–you’re worth it!

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In fact, it’s just the opposite.

The 21 Day Fix makes eating and fitness so simple, anyone can get great results. With 21 Day Fix, there’s no calorie counting, no guessing, and no wondering.

Just easy-to-follow portion control and one 30-minute workout per day.

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Let’s Talk. Let’s Meet.

Let’s get to work together on reclaiming your body, your self esteem, your happiness.

Jennifer Kozlowsky Your local Premiere Beachbody Coach Health and Wellness Coach, Fitness Instrucotr NEAPOLITANfamily • April 2015

rewrite and the remake! What will be the favorite, Goodnight Moon or Goodnight Goon? Madeline or Frankenstein? What happens when recycled picture book pages are made into something new? For children in grades 2-5. Located at 21100 Three Oaks Parkway, Estero. Call 239479-4636 for information.

2:45 PM. Afterschool Solutions. The Adventures and Gymnastics Club at Fleischmann Park offers great fun with many activity choices for your child at this afterschool club hosted by an energetic, well-trained staff.

Your child will participate in gymnastics and sports fitness classes as well as daily homework and enrichment time. Held Monday through Friday from 2:45-6 p.m. $50/week for first child and $45/week for siblings (inquire for partial week rates). Call 239-248-6122 to register. (1600 Fleishmann Blvd., Naples)

Sunday, april 12 from 11am to 2pm

4:30 PM. Caterpillar Kids Club. Children ages 5-12 will learn the use of breath, sound, humor, and relaxation exercises to learn their most effective life coping skills. $20 or $70/4 classes. Held at Monarch Therapy. Call 239- 325-9210 or check www.MonarchTherapy.com for additional information. Held weekly.

5:45 PM. Mindful Teens at Monarch Therapy. Teens practice indepth mindfulness skills through use of breath, sound, humor, and relaxation exercises. When we learn how to be in the here and now every moment, while also keeping the bigger picture in mind, life is more manageable. It is also helpful to find support with others who struggle with challenging thoughts and emotions. Mindful Teens is geared towards middle and high school and is facilitated by rotating teachers each week. $70/4 classes, $20/drop-in, or $10/current clients. For more information, call 239-325-9210 or visit www.MonarchTherapy.com. Held weekly.

2 THURSDAY Call for times. Free Easter Bunny Photo, Crafts and Egg Hunt at Bass Pro Shops. Visit the website for details on times for the free photos, and free craft schedule. Located at 10040 Gulf Center Drive, Ft. Myers.

Call 239- 461-7800. Event runs through Sunday, April 5th.

10:30 AM. The Way We Worked: Fire! Held at Marco Island Library. Come enjoy stories, songs, and activities about the Fire Department and welcome a real fire fighter. Registration is not required for this program. Located at 210 S. Heathwood Drive, Marco Island.

Call 239-394-3272 or check http://public.collier-lib.org for additional information.

3:15 PM. Art with Miss Beth. Calling all creative boys and girls to this new art class that will explore many forms of 2D and 3D art. Make unique and interesting pieces of art with ordinary and extraordinary things. Class held Thursdays April 2 — April 30 from 3:15 — 4:30 p.m.; $60. To register, call 239-213-3020. Located at 1600 Fleishmann Blvd., Naples.

Your one-stop shop to 20+ summer camps and programs!

Banish boredom and enrich your child’s summer.

Art | Dance | Martial Arts | Lego | Aquatic Nature | Music | Theatre | & MORE Come check out the free Kid Zone with bounce house, lawn games, face painting, balloon artistry, photo booth & giveaways.

PLUS win goodies and gift cards from Rusty Bucket, Whole Foods Market & MORE.

3:30 PM. Predator and Prey at Golden Gate Library. Located at 2432 Lucerne Road, Naples. Call 239-252-4542 or check http://public. collier-lib.org for additional information.

4:00 PM. Marco Island Bakery–Open for Business. Pretend to open a bakery at the Marco Island Library. Come learn how the restaurant business is run. Learn how chefs and waiters work. Tweens will learn to make two desserts, set a table, take an order then serve their guests.

Located at 210 S. Heathwood Drive, Marco Island. Call 239-394-3272 or check http://public.collier-lib.org for additional information.

5:30 PM. Eggstravaganza at Immokalee Library. Spring has sprung.

Join us as we create a variety of Easter and spring crafts for you to take home. Then we will have our very own Easter egg hunt. Open to ages NEAPOLITANfamily • April 2015

Located just north of VanderbiLt beach road on u.s. 41

239.254.1080 | Mercatoshops.com

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2-10 years. Located at 417 North First Street, Immokalee. Call 239-657-2882 or check http://public.collier-lib.org for information.

charity. Payment is accepted in the cafe, upon arrival. Located at 9101 Strada Place, Naples.

Call 239-552-5100 for additional information.

6:00 PM. Mercato Nights Music Series: Betty Fox Band. Free music event on the Mercato lawn across from Silverspot Cinema.

Lawn chairs and pets welcome. Located at 9128 Strada Place, Naples. Call 239-594-9400 for additional information.

4 SATURDAY

3 FRIDAY 7:30 AM. School’s Out Fun Day for Grades K-5. You must register no later than one week prior to the event. $25 per child. To register, call River Park 213-3037. Located at 301 11th Street North, Naples.

9:00 AM. Wild Animal Easter Egg Hunt.

The animals at Naples Zoo will rip into giant papier-mâché eggs stuffed with their favorite treats – raw meat, insects and fruit. Located at 1590 Goodlette-Frank Road, Naples. Call 239-262-5409 or check www.caribbeangardens.com for additional information. Event runs April 3-5.

6:00 PM. Wine Tasting & Live Music. Join us the first Friday of every month in the cafe and Lifestyle Center for wine-tasting and live music. This month enjoy over 25 wines from around the world. Proceeds benefit a local

7:30 AM. Third Street South Farmer’s Market. Held in the parking lot behind Tommy Bahama’s. Call 239-434-6533 for additional information. Held every Saturday.

7:30 AM. Run for Immokalee 5K race.

This is the fifth annual Run for Immokalee 5K Race. Event coordinator, Ashleigh Baker, is a sophomore at First Baptist Academy. The entry fee for the race is a new pair of children’s sneakers; the sneakers will be distributed at the Immokalee Apartments in August. To register for the race go to www.runforimmokalee. com. Questions can be emailed to run4imm@ comcast.net.

8:00 AM. Farmer’s Market at the Shoppes at Vanderbilt. Held at 2355 Vanderbilt Beach Road, Naples. Call 239-273-2350 for additional information. Held weekly on Saturday.

8:00 AM. IMCP Yard Sale. $10 for sellers, must bring your own table. Held at Immokalee Community Park, 321 North 1st Street, Immokalee. Call 239- 657-4449 for additional information.

9:00 AM. Free Zoo Admission for Collier

County residents. On the first Saturday of every month, 12 times a year, Collier County residents receive free zoo admission all day long. Enter any time, all day long up until 4 p.m. with no coupon required - just proof of residency for all adults. Located at 1590 Goodlette-Frank Road, Naples. Check www. napleszoo.com or call 239- 262-5409 for additional information.

9:00 AM. Golden Gate Community Center Farmers Market. Fresh Fruits & vegetables, flowers, cookies and many other items. Spaces for rent. Located at Golden Gate Community Center, 4701 Golden Gate Pkwy, Naples.

Check http://colliergov.net or call 239-2524180 for additional information. Held weekly on Saturday.

9:00 AM. IMCP Eggs-travaganza. Bring your own basket. Egg hunt divided by age groups. Face painting and crafts. Held at Immokalee Community Park, 321 North 1st Street, Immokalee. Call 239- 657-4449 for additional information.

9:00 AM. Party for the Planet Annual Earth Day Event. The 2015 Party for the Planet hosted by the nation’s Association of Zoo and Aquarium’s accredited institutions promises to be one of the largest Earth Day celebrations on record! Millions of zoo and aquarium visitors across North America will

Providing Care for Infants, Toddlers, Preschool, and VPK New Hours: 7AM Until 6PM 

Children guided by a balanced curriculum of thirty-eight objectives that incorporates academics, and the individual needs of the child

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Educated, compassionate, and skilled teachers

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Instilling school preparedness through mathematics, science, literacy that enforces sight words, phonics, and letter recognition, and a Kindergarten Readiness Program for Parents

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Field trips including: Barnes & Noble, The Artis Naples, The Children’s Museum, Naples Zoo, and Naples Botanical Gardens

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Separate outdoor play spaces for infants, toddlers, and preschool

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Secure gated entrance, cameras, and a staff training program dedicated to safety

Call today to schedule a tour! 239-261-7442 PHONE

G LIN OL R R E EN W UMM O N !

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Precious Cargo Academy, a Mission of Naples United Church of Christ WEBSITE: Preciouscargoacademy.org 32

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EMAIL: office@preciouscargoacademy.org NEAPOLITANfamily • April 2015

party for the planet with family fun and a renewed commitment to wildlife conservation. This year Naples Zoo joins the party again by hosting a variety of conservation partners. Located at 1590 Goodlette Road, Naples. Call 239-262-5409 or check www.caribbeangardens.com for additional information.

9:30 AM. VYCP Peter Cottontail’s Garden Party. Bunny hunt, crafts and games. Held at Vineyards Community Park, 6231 Arbor Road, Naples. Call 239-363-9669 or check http://colliergov.net for additional information.

10:00 AM. Easter Special Event at Golden Gate Community Center. Ready to compete for some Easter Egg giveaways? We will be providing families with plenty of friendly Easter Egg games and activities for children ages 3-12 years. Along with games and races, the Easter Bunny will make an appearance (bring your camera), face painting, inflatable’s, crafts, music, food and more. Make sure to bring a basket to hold your winnings. The event will be held on Saturday April 4th from 10:00am – 1:00pm for $3 per person. For more info., please call the Golden Gate Community Center at 239-252-4180. (There will not be an Easter Egg Hunt.)

St. Elizabeth Seton Catholic School Making a World of Difference … One Child at a Time

PreK–3 thru 8th Grade Introduce your child to the time-honored traditions of a Catholic education • Florida certified teachers • Full classroom curriculum including Art, Spanish, Health, Language, Music & PE • Low student-teacher ratio • Secure facilities • Religious values, traditions, weekly Liturgies • State of the art technology • Extended care included in Pre-K 3 tuition

CALL ABOUT OPEN HOUSES

239-455-2262 2730 53rd Terrace SW, Naples, FL • saintelizabethseton.com

10:00 AM. Free Kids Fishing. Be sure to take advantage of our free kids fishing. Grab the whole family and come join all the excitement.

Bass Pro Shops, 10040 Gulf Center Drive, Fort Myers. Call 239-4617800 for additional information.

OFFER!

10:00 AM. Kidgits Easter Party. Join us as we hop into spring at the Kidgits Easter Eggstravaganza. This event will be held in front of the Regal Cinema on April 4th from 10-12. You won’t want to miss special crafts, Easter eggs, and fun games. Not a Kidgit member? Just $5 to join for a whole year. See Guest Services to sign up or sign up at the event.

Hope to see you there. Located at 23106 Fashion Drive, Estero. Call 239-992-9966 for information.

11:00 AM. Photos with the Easter Bunny. Have a professional photograph taken with the Easter Bunny at Miromar Outlets. Located at 10801 Corkscrew Rd, Estero. Check www.miromaroutlets.com or call 239-948-3766 for information.

1:00 PM. Easter Cookie Decorating at Miromar Outlets. Come decorate fun shaped cookies for Easter in MundoFox Playland. Located at 10801 Corkscrew Rd, Estero. Check www.miromaroutlets.com or call 239-948-3766 for information.

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5 SUNDAY 2:00 PM. Free Concerts at the Bandshell. Bring a blanket for the whole family and enjoy free jazz concerts in Cambier Park. Located at 755 8th Ave. S., Naples. Call 239-213-3058 for information.

6 MONDAY 9:00 AM. Free Clam Pass Walks. Free, guided walk of boardwalk, bay, and beach – approximately 2 hours. Learn importance of mangrove trees, some Florida history, and meet fascinating creatures and plants that share this unique habitat. Meet your Conservancy of Southwest Florida guide at the gazebo near the parking lot tram stop. Clam Pass Park is west of US 41 on Seagate Drive. Monday - Saturday (except holidays).

For more details and pictures go to www.conservancy.org/nature-center/ nature-walks. Held Monday-Friday.

10:30 AM. Janet Ruth Science Sleuth at Headquarters Library.

Local educator Janet Lawton will lead a series of programs to guide preschool children through some of the mysteries of science. Children NEAPOLITANfamily • April 2015

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Many Collier County Library programs require preregistration, please call ahead for any program you are interested in attending to check requirements. will make crafts during each session. Open to ages 4-5 years. Registration required. Located at 2385 Orange Blossom Drive, Naples. Call 239-593-0870 or check http://public.collierlib.org for additional information.

3:00 PM. Rubber Band Loom Club at South Regional Library. Bring your rubber band bracelet loom and rubber bands and we’ll learn to make easy bracelets and charms. Located at 8065 Lely Cultural Parkway, Naples. Call 239252-7542 or check http://public.collier-lib.org for information.

6:30 PM. Mother-Daughter Book Discussion at South County Regional Library.

This unique take on fairy tales is full of the unexpected. The School for Good and Evil.

Open to girls in grade 5 and up accompanied by moms, grandmas, older sisters or aunties.

Refreshments will be provided. Sponsored by Friends of South County Regional Library.

Located at 21100 Three Oaks Pkwy, Estero.

Call 239-479-4636 for additional information.

8:00 PM. Swan Lake at Artis-Naples. Performed by The Russian National Ballet Theatre. Located at 5833 Pelican Bay Boulevard, Naples. Call 239- 597-1111 or check http:// artisnaples.org for ticket information.

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2 TUESDAY 10:00 AM. Moms and Tots Storytime at Barnes & Noble with Miss Jessica and Miss Felicia. All ages are welcome. Located at 5377 Tamiami Trail North, Naples. Call 239-597-2040 for additional information.

Held weekly on Tuesday.

4:00 PM. Robotic at Golden Gate Library.

Trisha Aldridge from 4-H Extension Services will be here to present a series of six programs to introduce you to the science of robots utilizing LEGO Mindstorms. Ages 11-17. Located at 2432 Lucerne Road, Naples. Call 239-2524542 or check http://public.collier-lib.org for additional information.

8 WEDNESDAY 4:00 PM. LEGO Club at Estates Branch Library. Share ideas, be creative, make new friends and have fun! LEGO® bricks will be provided. Your LEGO® creation will be put on display at the library. Open to ages 5-11 years. Registration is not required. Located at 1266 Golden Gate Blvd. W., Naples. Call 239-455-8088 or check http://public.collier-

lib.org for additional information.

9 THURSDAY 10:30 AM. The Way We Worked. The Chef Charles Albanos, a real chef from the Marriott Hotel, will be visiting our story time. There will also be stories, songs and activities. Held at Marco Island Library, 210 S. Heathwood Drive, Marco Island. Call 239394-3272 or check http://public.collier-lib.org for additional information.

5:00 PM. Fun With Animation at East Naples Library. Use the library’s iPads to create your own animations that you can share with your family and friends. Open to ages 11-17 years. Located at 8787 Tamiami Trail East, Naples. Call 239-775-5592 or check http://public.collier-lib.org for additional information.

5:00 PM. Pine Ridge Middle School Colorsplash Fitness Walk and 5K. Prepare to get splashed with color as you walk or run your choice of one mile, 2 miles or five kilometers.

Registration includes T-shirt, sunglasses, two food tickets and entertainment. To register go to www.pineridgemiddlepto.org/colors-

NEAPOLITANfamily • April 2015

plash5K.html. Located at 1515 Pine Ridge Road, Naples.

10 FRIDAY 12:00 PM. Author Signing with Jaime L Kulaga: The SuperWoman’s Guide to Super Fulfillment at Barnes and Noble. Join us and meet author Jaime Kulaga and learn how to live a balanced and fulfilled life, where you can work, care for your family and give to yourself. Located at 5377 Tamiami Trail North, Naples. Call 239-597-2040 for additional information.

Miguel Argumosa, DMD., Erin M. Taylor, DMD, Nicole Eastham, DMD Board Certified Pedioatric Dentists

6:00 PM. GGCC Kids Trivia Night. Bring your child to the battle of the minds. $8. Located at Golden Gate Community Center, 4701 Golden Gate Pkwy, Naples. Call 239-252-4180 or check http://colliergov.net for additional information.

6:00 PM. IMSP Middle School Dance. $5 admission. Held at Immokalee Sports Complex, 505 Escambia Street, Immokalee. Call 239657-1951 for additional information.

7:00 PM. The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee. Produced

by Florida repertory Theatre, this musical chronicles several unique spelling bee contestants with hilarious results. Located at 2268 Bay Street in Fort Myers. Call 239-332-4488 for ticket information. Performances also on April 11 and 12.

8:00 PM. Outdoor Family Movie Night: Fern Gully The Last Rainforest. Pack your blankets, lawn chairs, picnic baskets and coolers and watch this Academy Award winning film under the stars with your family and friends. Held at Alliance for the Arts, 10091 McGregor Boulevard, Fort Myers. Call 239-939-2787 or check www.artinlee.org for additional information.

11 SATURDAY 6:00 AM. Balloons Over Paradise. This colorful celebration at Seminole Casino Hotel in Immokalee, features 60 custom hot air balloons and plenty of fun for the whole family including tethered balloon rides, alligator wrestling at Seminole Cultural Village, food vendors, a craft showcase, children’s activities, carnival games, polo, a classic car show, and more. Free shuttle transportation provided from the casino parking lot to rodeo grounds. Held at 506 South 1st Street, Immokalee. Call 239-658-1313 or check www.seminolecasinoevents.com for additional information. Runs through Sunday, April 12.

7:30 AM. Beach Bum 5K. Hosted by Gulf Coast Runners and David Lawrence Center Young Executives. The fun, family friendly (nonchipped) 3.1 mile morning walk/run on beautiful Naples Beach starts at Lowdermilk Park and includes refreshments, great giveaways and race apparel and opportunities to win unique prizes. Held at Lowdermilk Park, 1301 Gulf Shore Blvd N., Naples.

10:00 AM. Fine Art and Craft Show. Held in Cambier Park, 755 8th Avenue South, Naples. Call 239-213-3058 or check www.naplesgov. com/index.aspx?NID=576 for additional information.

11:00 AM. Storytime: I Wish You More at Barnes and Nobles.

Join us for a special Storytime featuring I Wish You More, an exuberant book of endless good wishes. Wishes for curiosity and wonder, for friendship and strength, laughter and peace. This sweet, uplifting book is perfect for wishers of every age. Located at 5415 Tamiami Trail N, Naples. Call 239-598-1605 for additional information.

2 PM. Celebrate Bonita. Musical entertainment, children’s activities and chili cook off. Held in Riverside Park, downtown Bonita Springs.

NEAPOLITANfamily • April 2015

MCNA and CMS insurance accepted.

When school is out, Summer Camp is in! nts tude For s ing 1st r ente ough thr ! rade 8th g

STEM, outdoor activities, and weekly field trips all centered around fun themes.

All classes will be taught by GCCAS faculty and staff.

Fun Starts: June 15th through July 31st.

Hours: 7am—3pm Monday through Friday

*Aftercare available until 6pm for an additional cost.

LU N C H I N C LU D E D !

*Field Trip fees extra.

Full Week: $100.00, Full Day $30.00, Half Day $15.00.

Save $100 and prepay for the entire summer!

For more information please contact the school at 239-784-1539 or email: lurban@gccas.org.

Get the registration form at www.gccas.org. neafamily.com

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Call 239-949-6262 for additional information.

3:00 PM. Fifth Annual Crawfish Boil. The Boys & Girls Club of Collier County is hosting the Fifth Annual Crawfish Boil. The event is open to the public and will feature authentic Louisiana themed food and crawfish, live entertainment, activities, raffles, give-a-ways and more.

Tickets are $25. Kids 12 and under are free. The event is a friendraiser, to increase awareness of the Club and the valuable resources it offers to our local community. Held at 7500 Davis Boulevard, Naples. Call 239- 325-1700 for additional information.

5:00 PM. Rockin’ The Point. Free concert featuring a Journey tribute band. Held at Coconut Point, 23106 Fashion Drive, Estero. Call 239992-9966 for additional information.

7:00 PM. Star Gazing Party. You will be viewing the night skies with The Everglades Astronomical Society. There will be an interpretive presentation followed by constellation tours, using telescopes to view stars, galaxies, planets, and nebulae. Come watch the night sky open up and amaze you. Regular park entrance fees apply ($5 per vehicle). Held at Collier-Seminole State Park, 20200 Tamiami Trail East, Naples, 34114, Call 239-394-3397 for additional information.

12 SUNDAY 11 AM. Summer Camp Fair at Mercato Shops. Your one-stop shop to over 20 summer camps and programs. Come and check out the Kids Zone with bounce house, lawn games, face painting, balloon artistry, photo booth and giveaways. Call 239-254-1080 or check mercatoshops. com for additional information.

2:00 PM. Rockin’ The Blues Music Series. Join us for the 2015 Rockin’ the Blues Music Series being held on the lawn at Mercato (next to MASA, across from Silverspot). All concerts in this series are free and open to the public. Don’t forget to bring a blanket or lawn chair. Located at 9128 Strada Place, Naples. Call 239-594-9400 for additional information.

13 MONDAY 5:30 PM. Book Tasting at Naples Regional Library. We’ll discuss popular books and pair them with snacks. Bring your own favorite book to talk about. For grades 3 and up. Held at Naples Regional Library, 650 Central Avenue, Naples. Call 239-262-6853 or check http://public. collier-lib.org for additional information.

7:00 PM. Films for Film Lovers Series. Join Us Monday nights in our cozy space, comfortably furnished with chairs and tables to enjoy the best of Foreign and Independent films. Join our lively film discussion after each film, led by the Film Society Chairman and a Film Society Member. Wine, Beer and non-alcoholic beverage, snacks and popcorn are available. Held at 10150 Bonita Beach Rd, Bonita Beach.

14 TUESDAY 12:00 PM. Free Cone Day at Ben & Jerry’s. As a special thank you another year of support, Ben & Jerry’s is giving out free cones between noon and 8pm. Located at 4320 Gulfshore Blvd. N., Venetian Village, Naples. Check http://www.benjerry.com/scoop-shops/free-cone-day for more information.

6:15 PM. Make a Mini Book at South County Regional Library.

Fabricate with folds, flaps and fasteners for a one of a kind booklet..

Located at 21100 Three Oaks Pkwy, Estero. Call 239- 479-4636 for additional information.

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16 THURSDAY 10:30 AM. The Way We Worked: Police at Marco Island Library.

Come enjoy stories, songs and activities all about policemen and how they work. There will be police officers visiting story time who will show us their police car. Held at Marco Island Library, 210 S. Heathwood Drive, Marco Island. Call 239-394-3272 or check http://public.collierlib.org for additional information.

5:30 PM. Family Game Night at Immokalee Library. Bring the entire family for a fun and competitive evening of board games. All ages welcome. Registration is not required for this program. Located at 417 North First Street, Immokalee. Call 239-657-2882 or check http:// public.collier-lib.org for additional information.

17 FRIDAY 6:00 PM. Golden Apple Celebration of Teachers Dinner. A celebration to honor teachers who impact student learning through their innovative practices, and champion learning for every student, every day.

We are looking forward to this special dinner to honor our teachers, and celebrate the support that our community provides to educators through the work of Champions For Learning. For more information on tickets call Jason Kurek at 239-643-4755. Held at Naples Beach Hotel and Golf Club, 851 Gulf Shore Blvd. North., Naples.

6:00 PM. IMCP Movie Night. Family movie with popcorn and drink. $5. Held at Immokalee Community Park, 321 North 1st Street, Immokalee. Call 239- 657-4449 for additional information.

18 SATURDAY 8:30 AM. Color Collier Healthy Run. Two-mile non-competitive run or walk. Sponsored by the Safe and Healthy Coalition of Collier County. To register go to http://www.safehealthychildren.org/3rdannual-color-collier-healthy-run-saturday-april-18th-2015/. Held at North Collier Regional Park.

10:00 AM. Art in the (Home Depot) Garden. Free Family Event.

Held at the Home Depot on Airport Pulling Rd & Davis Blvd. Meet Colombian painter and photographer Jorge Narváez and watch him create a masterpiece from pencil on canvas to finished creation. Free raffle to win the finished painting. 1651 S Airport Pulling Rd, Naples.

10:00 AM. Earth Day Festival at the Conservancy. Featuring live animal shows, special programs, live music, local vendors and exhibits, the Conservancy of Southwest Florida’s annual Earth Day Festival is a not-to-be-missed eco- and family-friendly event for all ages. Located at 1495 Smith Preserve Way, Naples. Call 239-262-0304 or check www. conservancy.org for additional information.

11:00 AM. Aqualicious Storytime at Barnes and Noble. Join us for a reading and fun activities featuring Aqualicious, the newest picture book from #1 New York Times bestselling author Victoria Kann. This cheerful tale follows Pinkalicious as she meets a miniature mermaid for a fun-in-the-sun adventure. Located at 5377 Tamiami Trail North, Naples. Call 239-597-2040 for additional information.

11:00 AM. Free Kids Archery. Be sure to join our team here at Bass Pro Shops for our free Kids Archery. All equipment is provided. Bass Pro Shops is located at 10040 Gulf Center Drive, Ft. Myers. Call 239461-7800 for additional information.

11:00 AM. Magic Carpet–Strings. For youth ages 3-9, these concerts feature musicians from the Naples Philharmonic performing a 45-minute NEAPOLITANfamily • April 2015

Heather Bladich Hair by Heather

(239) 285-9505

Phenix Salon Suites, #115, 1485 Pine Ridge Rd, Naples Expert Cuts & Color

Naples Preschool Academy Top Early Learning Center

• Indoor And Outdoor Playground • Safe And Secure • Spacious Rooms • VPK Certified • Experienced Staff • Newborn to 5 Years old • Security System 1275 Airport Pulling Road S., Naples

(conveniently located near Collier County Courthouse)

(239) 403-7977

www.NaplesPreschoolAcademy.com

ABC Swim School Survival Swimming for Babies & Toddlers

6 months old to 6 years old • One-on-one instruction

239-272-0529

www.abcswimschool.com PediaSwim & WSI/CPR certified neafamily.com

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April Picks

program while demonstrating their instruments and answering questions. Held at Artis-Naples, 5833 Pelican Bay Boulevard, Naples. Call 239-597-1111 or check http://artisnaples.org for ticket information.

  

1:00 PM. Kids Critter Craft Day. Animal related crafts at Planet Tails. $10 each child, reservations suggested. Located at 2355 Vanderbilt Beach Road, Suite 124, Naples. Call 239-293-3513 or check www.planettails. com for additional information.

1:30 PM. Pups and Books at East Naples Library. PAWS Assistance Dogs are coming to the library! Stop by to read to a dog or just to pet one. Children of all ages are welcome. Registration is not required for this program. Held at East Naples Library, 8787 Tamiami Trail East, Naples. Call 239-775-5592 or check http://public.collier-lib.org for additional information.

1:30 PM. Pups and Books at Headquarters Regional Library. Stop by to read to a dog or just to pet one. Registration is not required for this program. Held at Headquarters Library, 2385 Orange Blossom Drive, Naples. Call 239-593-0870 or check http://public.collier-lib. org for additional information.

5 PM. Movie in the Park and Earth Day Event. Free showing of Dr. Seuss–The Lorax. Free face painting, movie themed games and a Dr. Seuss photo booth area. Held at Riverside Park, Bonita Springs. Call 239-949-6262 for additional information.

19 SUNDAY

Fort Myers Color Vibe 5K Run

Lee Civic Center, 11831 Bayshore Road, North Fort Myers Saturday, April 4 • 8 a.m. - 2 p.m. 239-543-8368

The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee! Florida Repertory Theatre, 2268 Bay St, Fort Myers April 10 & 11 at 7 p.m. & April 12 at 2 p.m.

This musical chronicles several unique spelling bee contestants, eager to win the bee with hilarious results. 239-332-4488

Celebrate Bonita

Riverside Park, Bonita Springs Saturday, April 11 • 2 - 9 p.m.

The stage is set for a day of musical entertainment, children’s activities, a chili cook-off and more. 239-949-6262

Movie in the Park and Earth Day Event Riverside Park, Bonita Springs Saturday, April 18 • 5 p.m.

Free showing of Dr. Seuss-The Lorax! Free face painting, movie themed games and a Dr. Seuss photo booth area!

239-949-6262

Araba Shrine Circus

Lee Civic Center, 11831 Bayshore Road, North Fort Myers Friday, April 24 • 11 a.m., 3 p.m., 7:30 p.m.

The first show is free to children from the schools and organizations within the surrounding five counties that are served by Araba Shriners. 239-543-8368

Lee County’s Original Family Publication

FOR 24 YEARS!!

www.leefamilynews.net 38

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12:00 PM. NextGen 2015 Fit ‘n Fun Field Day Unplugged. Fit ‘n Fun Field Day Unplugged is a family-oriented event with something for everyone, including three-legged races, soccer dribble, a bounce house, face painting, carnival games and much more! We expect to attract all ages. There will be food, fun, and an opportunity to dunk surprise local celebrities in a dunk tank. This event will raise awareness about The Shelter for Abused Women & Children’s programs and services. Held at Community School of Naples, 13275 Livingston Road, Naples. Call (866) 397-2267 for additional information.

2:00 PM. Free Concerts at the Bandshell. Bring a blanket for the whole family and enjoy free jazz concerts in Cambier Park. Located at 755 8th Ave. S., Naples. Call 239-213-3058 for additional information.

3:00 PM. PFLAG Eighth Annual Interfaith Convocation. People of all faiths are invited to worship together. Sharing religious traditions and rituals unifies the community in promoting acceptance and belonging for gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender persons and their families. Held at Naples United Church of Christ, 5200 Crayton Road, Naples. Check http://www.pflagnaples.org for additional information.

20 MONDAY 9:00 AM. Money Games at Marco Island Library. Money games will be available all during Money Smart Week. Just ask at the circulation desk for a game to play. Registration is not required for this program.

Located at 210 S. Heathwood Drive, Marco Island. Call 239-394-3272 or check http://public.collier-lib.org for additional information. Runs through Friday, April 24.

9:00 AM. Money Smart Week Scavenger Hunt at South Regional Library. Find the money pictures hidden in the Children’s Library and earn a small prize. Take the challenge to see if you are a financial wizard by answering questions about the world of money. You could walk away with a mysterious mini vault. Registration is not required for this program. Located at 8065 Lely Cultural Parkway, Naples. Call 239-252NEAPOLITANfamily • April 2015

7542 or check http://public.collier-lib.org for additional information.

Runs through Friday, April 24.

5:00 PM. Petting Zoo at East Naples Library. Naples Live Stock 4H Club will bring some of their 4H animals for us to see and pet. Open to ages 2 years and older. Located at 8787 Tamiami Trail East, Naples.

Call 239-775-5592 or check http://public.collier-lib.org for additional information.

6:30 PM. Read to Rabbits at Headquarters Library. It’s great to cuddle up with a good book, but it’s even better with a soft, silky rabbit.

We will feed them, learn about their habits and read to them. Located at 2385 Orange Blossom Drive, Naples. Call 239-593-0870 or check http://public.collier-lib.org for additional information.

21 TUESDAY 3:30 PM. Turtle Hurdles at Golden Gate Library. It’s almost turtle season on our beaches. Come to the library to find out what happens in a turtle’s life after it hatches on our Florida shores. Presented by Everglades National Park. Grades K through 5. Located at 2432 Lucerne Road, Naples. Call 239-252-4542 or check http://public.collier-lib.org for additional information.

4:00 PM. Money Smart Week at Estates Branch Library. Learn about saving money and the difference between what you need to buy and what you want to buy. Then show your skills on a fun money game on an iPad. Grades K through 5. Located at 1266 Golden Gate Blvd.

W., Naples. Call 239-455-8088 or check http://public.collier-lib.org for additional information.

8:00 PM. Movies on the Lawn: Wall-E. Free movie on the lawn across from Silverspot Cinema. Please no coolers or outside food. Lawn chairs, blankets and well-behaved pets welcome. Located at 9128 Strada

Place, Naples. Call 239-594-9400 or check www.mercatoshops.com for additional information.

22 WEDNESDAY Call for time. 9th Annual Fort Myers Beach Film Festival. The Fort Myers Beach Film Festival is back for its ninth year, attracting independent film fans, filmmakers, and distributors to spend five fabulous days and nights on the Gulf beaches of Fort Myers Beach, Florida to exchange ideas, make new contacts, and enjoy some compelling and interesting films encompassing a wide range of tastes. The events begin on April 22nd and end on April 26th, 2015 with events to choose from for all ages. For more information check www.visitfortmyersbeach.com.

4:00 PM. Monopoly Tournament at Naples Regional Library.

Team up with friends for this two-day after school tournament. The ultimate winner will receive a snack bonanza for after school enjoyment.

Registration is not required for this program. Located at 650 Central Avenue, Naples. Call 239-262-6853 or check http://public.collier-lib. org for additional information.

23 THURSDAY 10:30 AM. The Way We Worked: Construction Workers at Marco Island Library. Construction workers are all over Marco Island building houses, hotels, and other buildings. There will be some construction stories plus Steve Trafton from Ace Hardware will bring the tools and supplies for you to build something. Registration is not required for this program. Located at 210 S. Heathwood Drive, Marco Island.

Call 239-394-3272 or check http://public.collier-lib.org for additional information.

SUMMERDANCE 2015 Sibling

2Dis5co% unt

There’s no reason to stop dancing over the summer! In addition to our Summer Camps Backstage Dance Academy also offers a wide variety of weekly dance classes and workshops.

Start the Fun at www.NaplesSummerCamp.com NEAPOLITANfamily • April 2015

This summer we’ll offer weekly thematic five day dance camps for children Ages 3-9. Our structured, fun-filled camps will include multiple styles of dance, arts & crafts and other fun dance activities that will keep your dancer focused and leave them with happy memories and a wonderful summer experience. Crafts and a camp T-shirt are included. Each week will conclude with an In-Studio demonstration, so plan to bring your cameras!

5400 Jaeger Rd Naples, FL 34109

239.566.3535 neafamily.com

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4:00 PM. Monopoly Tournament at Naples Regional Library. Team up with friends for this two-day after school tournament. The ultimate winner will receive a snack bonanza for after school enjoyment. Registration is not required for this program. Located at 650 Central Avenue, Naples. Call 239-262-6853 or check http://public.collier-lib.org for additional information.

24 FRIDAY 11 AM. Araba Shrine Circus. Held at Lee Civic Center, 11831 Bayshore Road, Fort Myers. Call 239-543-8368 for additional information. Shows also held at 3 PM and 7:30 PM. 6:00 PM. Parent’s Night Out at Immokalee Community Park. Dinner, craft, sports and so much more. $5 per person. Located at 321 North 1st Street, Immokalee. Call 239-6574449 for additional information.

25 SATURDAY Call for time. Tamiami Trail Celebration.

The Tamiami Trail is no ordinary road. Finished in 1928, the narrow strip of highway cut across one of the most inaccessible and remote parts of the country and joined Florida’s east and west coasts for the first time in history. Join

us in celebrating the 87th anniversary with a motorcade of antique automobiles, and a full day of educational programs and activities in Everglades City, Collier County’s original county seat. Sponsored by the Friends of the Museum of the Everglades. For more information, please call 239- 695-0008.

8:00 AM. Glitter 5K Run. Girls on the Run of Collier County in partnership with The Glitter Foundation invite you to run or walk in the “I Don’t Sweat, I Sparkle!” Glitter 5K. All ages welcome. To register go to http://www. gotrcc.org/events. Held at Sugden Regional Park, 4284 Avalon Drive, Naples.

8:00 AM. Great Strides Walk for Cystic Fibrosis. Walk to raise funds for cystic fibrosis followed by food, entertainment and children’s activities. For more information go to http:// tampa.cff.org/greatstrides or call 813-3749041. Held at Vineyards Community Park, 6231 Arbor Road, Naples.

8:00 AM. MHCP Yard Sale. Sellers pay $10, bring your own table. Held at Max Hasse Community Park, 3390 Golden Gate Pkwy, Naples. Call 239-348-7500 or check http:// colliergov.net for additional information.

9:00 AM. Sensational Saturday. Need a Saturday to run errands, take a nap or just take a break? River Park has you covered. A morning swim, a craft, playground time and

pizza for lunch equals a tired kid to pick up. $20 per child. Pre-registration is required. For more information, call 239-213-3037. (301 11th Street North, Naples) 10:00 AM. Kids Day. Kids from toddlers to twelve are invited to participate in fun activities near MundoFox Playland. Kids will receive a free slice of pizza from Luna Pizza and a coupon for a free kid’s cone from Dairy Queen/Orange Julius, while supplies last. Held at Miromar Outlets, 10801 Corkscrew Rd, Estero. Call 239-948-3766 or check www.miromaroutlets.com for additional information.

26 SUNDAY 2:00 PM. Free Concerts at the Bandshell.

Bring a blanket for the whole family and enjoy free jazz concerts in Cambier Park. Located at 755 8th Ave. S., Naples. Call 239-213-3058 for additional information.

7:00 PM. Naples Philharmonic Youth Orchestra Spring Concert. The Naples Philharmonic Youth Orchestra performs beloved classical works for a variety of musical eras. Artis-Naples is located at 5833 Pelican Bay Boulevard, Naples. Call 239- 597-1111 or check http://artisnaples.org for ticket information.

& Minecraft Summer Camps!

June - August 2015

KiDsTek LEGO

& MINECRaFT

summer camp is back!

This year we continue to add fun LEGO themes, like Space: The Final Frontier, where you will build a 3 foot Saturn V rocket or learn all about Redstone in our new minecraft camps!

Our Camps » Amusement Park » Architecture » Automania » NXT Robotics

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27 MONDAY 9:00 AM. Parents Appreciation Day at Whole Foods. New parents, we appreciate you for everything you do. Please be sure to stop by for one free coffee or tea and a pastry from our fresh-baked pastry case.

Located at 9101 Strada Place, Naples. Call 239-552-5100 for additional information.

28 TUESDAY 3:30 PM. iPads, iMovie and You at Immokalee Library. Have you ever wanted to star in a movie? Here’s your chance! We will use our iPads with the iMovie app to create a short movie starring YOU! Learn how to create a storyboard, film action shots and tell a digital story in this workshop. Open to ages 11-17 years. Located at 417 North First Street, Immokalee. Call 239-657-2882 or check http://public.collier-lib. org for additional information.

4:00 PM. Robotics at Vanderbilt Beach Library. Trisha from the 4-H Extension Service will be here to present a program using Lego Mindstorms EV3 robots. By using principles of programming, physical science and mathematics, we’ll program the robots to go through a small obstacle course. Open to ages 8-12 years. Located at 788 Vanderbilt Beach Road, Naples. Call 239-597-8444 or check http://public.collierlib.org for additional information.

6:15 PM. Recycled T-Shirt Book Bag at South County Regional Library. In honor of Earth Day “Bella” will share one of her favorite projects of repurposing an old t-shirt with no sewing involved. Join in the fun! Bring a t-shirt or use one of ours. Located at 21100 Three Oaks Pkwy, Estero. Call 239- 479-4636 for additional information.

29 WEDNESDAY 6:00 PM. Free Admission to The Baker Museum. Enjoy free admission to The Baker Museum the last Wednesday of each month from 6 to 9pm. A local band offers musical entertainment and audiences of all ages are welcome to view the galleries and learn from our docents.

Located at 5833 Pelican Bay Blvd, Naples. Call 239-597-1900 for additional information.

30 THURSDAY 10:30 AM. The Way We Worked: Boat Captain at Marco Island Library. A boat captain from Dolphin Explorer will come and share his knowledge about boats and dolphins. Also enjoy and a craft all about boats and the ocean. Registration is not required for this program. Located at 210 S. Heathwood Drive, Marco Island. Call 239-394-3272 or check http://public.collier-lib.org for additional information.

THEATRE TH HEATTRE E EDUCATION PRO PROJECT

ST R

student theatre artists in residence

Ages 7-12 Young performers will learn the creative and technical sides of theatre while rehearsing and performing their own production!

MON-FRI, JUNE 9-27 • 8:30AM-12PM • $350

Ages 13-18

JUNE 9-20 • 2-5PM • $250

FOR MORE INFORMATION,

VISIT GULFSHOREPLAYHOUSE.ORG OR CONTACT GULFSHORE PLAYHOUSE @ 239.261.PLAY (7529)

TO REGISTER, CALL THE NORRIS CENTER AT 239.213.3049

6:00 PM. Temple Shalom Preschool 25th Anniversary & Art Show. Celebrating 25 years as one of the best preschools in Naples, we will celebrate this occasion at the annual Temple Shalom Art Show.

At this adults only event, guests will see beautiful artwork created by the students, enjoy cocktails and hors d’oeurves, bid on amazing silent auction items as well as class gift baskets. Proceeds will help fund the Scholarship Program which offers financial assistance to Temple Shalom families in need. Located at 4630 Pine Ridge Road, Naples. Call 239455-3227 or check http://www.naplestemple.org/study/preschool/ for additional information.

NEAPOLITANfamily • April 2015

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C E N T E R S F O R T H E A R T S B O N I TA S P R I N G S Art, Theater, Dance & Music Free catalog 239-495-8989

Spring Break Camps Ages 4-18

March 30-April 6 Full & half day classes include projects that can be completed in one session.

Summer Camp

Summer Camps begin June 8 - August 14 Ages 4-18 Over 120 Camp Classes in Art, Theater, Dance and Music Great scholarships and discounts make summer fun and learning affordable for families!

G r e at F am i l y En t e r t ai n m e n t!

Improv Cafe - Family Friendly Comedy Saturday, April 4, 3:00pm Center for Performing Arts Tickets: $6 Youth / $10 adults

Bring the entire family out to enjoy great comedy with CFABS own very funny youth improv professionals.

Willing audience volunteers join our troupe for guaranteed laughs.

10150 BONITA BEACH RD, BONITA SPRINGS, FL

239-495-8989 ARTCENTERBONITA.ORG 42

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ed r e f f O o s l A

Specialty Camps Education Art Robotics

Computer Design Sports Water Sports

$66

per week for full 9 weeks of Summer fun at Camp Collier!

Public Services Division Parks & Recreation

www.collierparks.com • 252-4000

Collier County Parks and Recreation • Winter/Spring 2011 NEAPOLITANfamily • April 2015

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2015

Summer Camp DIRECTORY Are you looking for summer camp for your children? Whether you need one week of specialty camp or an entire summer of daily supervision, we have the answer for you! Check out the following camps–you’ll find the right fit for every child.

Academy of Martial Arts (239) 597-5900 The Academy of Martial Arts provides a fun way for kids to stay active throughout the summer. Daily activities include karate, self defense and daily trips.

Get more information about the academy online at napleskarate.com. Located at 7765 Preserve Lane, # 1, Naples, 34119.

Active Learning Video Game Creation and USA Chess Camp 888-65-CHESS USA Chess camps are a great way for kids to learn the game in a fun and exciting environment.

The USA Chess staff is comprised of the finest children’s chess instructors in North America. Camp is co-ed for ages 5-16 yrs. Morning, afternoon and all day sessions are available. Visit www. activelearningcamps.com for further information and to register online. At the Video Game Creation Camps, children 8-16 create their very own video games. Camps are held at The Community School of Naples, June 23-27, 2014.

Backstage Dance Academy (239) 566-3535 Weekly thematic five-day dance camps are designed for children ages 3-9 to explore dance in an environment that will nurture each child in a safe and progressive way. The structured, fun-filled and high energy camps will include multiple styles of dance, creative movement, arts & crafts, and other fun activities that will keep your dancer engaged and looking forward to the next day. Campers will be divided into 2 age groups; 3-5 years old and 6-9 years old. Dancers will also develop their performance experience by presenting a short routine for their families on the last day of camp. Crafts, snacks and a camp t-shirt are included. Registration will begin mid-April. Stop by and visit the friendly front desk staff at 5400 Jaeger Road, Unit 1, Naples or visit www.naplessummercamp.com for information.

Camp Shalom & Camp Einstein (239) 455-3227 Camp Shalom is a fun-filled 7 week summer camp program for children ages two through five. Camp Einstein is an academic camp for children five through eight years old. Campers participate in water play, dancing, arts and crafts, performing arts, foreign language, and music. Each camp offers a seven week program with a new theme each week. Camp hours are from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. with flexible early pick up times and daily drop off programs. Email scohen@naplestemple. org for information.

Get your kids excited about summer by checking out these awesome options for summer camp fun!

You’ll find the perfect camp for a week or the entire summer.

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Cedar Montessori School (239) 597-7190

Children’s Montessori School (239) 593-6668

Cedar Montessori School offers two week summer sessions with options for either full or half day fun from June 2 through August 5. Each session will be themed-based and enriched with outdoor activities, water play, cooking, nature exploration, science projects and a continuation of focus on developing the child’s natural love of music and art. All day students will be provided an afternoon work session to facilitate and continue with their academic progress and development. Enrollment is open to toddler through lower elementary school children. Cedar Montessori School has been serving Collier County for over 30 years. The spacious campus with two large outdoor play yards is located in a residential area of North Naples at 10904 Winterview Drive, Naples, 34109. To request an application, informational packet or personal tour of the campus, phone 239-597-7190, email office@cedarmontessori.org or check www.cedarmontessori.org.

Children’s Montessori School is excited to present the Animal Discovery Summer Camp. Each week features a new and exciting animal to explore: Dinosaur Dig, Radical Reptiles, Under the Sea, Mad About Mammals, Buggin’ Out, Shark Week, Amphibian Antics, Birds of a Feather & Intriguing Invertebrates. Special guests will visit some of the camps to share their knowledge and to show the children animals. Camps begin on June 1 and run through July 31. Campus hours are from 8:00a.m.

- 4:30p.m. For more information visit www.childmont.com or call 593-6668. Children’s Montessori School is located at 2535 Northbrooke Plaza Drive across from SuperTarget in North Naples.

Centers for the Arts of Bonita Springs (239) 495-8989 The Centers for the Arts of Bonita Springs offers camps with a variety of themes, each designed to inspire creativity and encourage artistic exploration.

Students enjoy painting, dance, theater, photography, digital animation, pottery and many other forms of art. Camps are divided by age and run weekly through August. Great scholarships ensure that every child can enjoy an artistic adventure this summer. Held at the new 30,000 Square Foot Center for Performing Arts, 10150 Bonita Beach Road SE, Bonita Springs. www.artcenterbonita.org

City of Naples (239) 213-3020 The specialty camps will be held at many locations within the City of Naples and include camps at Lowdermilk Park, The Naples Preserve, Fleischmann Park, River and Anthony Park, The Norris Center and the Arthur L. Allan Tennis Center in Cambier Park and a variety of other locations.

Call Fleischmann Park at (239) 213-3020; River Park at (239) 213-3037; Norris Center at (239) 213-3058.

Collier County Parks & Rec (239) 252-4000 Collier County also offers specialty camps that run weekly or a few days at a time. Children can experience educational camps, arts and theater camps, robotic camps, video game design camps, extreme

sports camps, sport camps, skiing, sailing, fishing and beach camps. Summer camp programs offer a variety of rewards and experiences for children of all ages and abilities. Ensure that your child has a great summer camp experience by finding the program that meets your child’s needs.

Conservancy of SW Florida (239) 262-0304 x266 Award-winning Conservancy camps have been expanded. Camp days are filled with fun nature exploration, crafts and games. For all summer camp information and registration visit www.conservancy. org/summercamp.

Dance Arts by Maria (239) 513-6999 Dance Arts by Maria, Inc. offers several summer programs tailored for all ages and levels of dance.

Summer dance camps are for ages 3-12 and incorporate dance, arts and crafts, and activities, summer intensive programs are for the serious dancer and involve several styles of dance in an intensive atmosphere, and summer classes are offered for all ages and levels in all styles.

Located at 5610 Yahl Street #10. Naples. www. naplesdancearts.com.

Full S.T.E.A.M. Ahead (856) 220-1931 Full S.T.E.A.M. Ahead is a new enrichment program for the arts and sciences, run by Hilary and Ryan Shore–two proven innovators and public school teachers in Collier County. The program consists of summer camps and fall/spring group classes

the place to be Seen in twenty-Fifteen

aRt & cReatiVe campS | BeacH campS cOmpUteR campS | DaNce & tHeateR campS FiSHiNG & ScieNce campS | NatURe campS pReScHOOl campS | SKate campS SpORtS & atHletic campS FLEISCHMANN PARK 213-3020 • NORRIS CENTER 213-3058 RIVER PARK 213-3037 • RIVER PARK AQUATICS 213-3040 ARTHUR ALLEN TENNIS CENTER 213-3060

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Summer

2015

Specialty campS | aQUaticS | eVeNtS

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covering fun topics in Science,Technology, Engineering, Art, and Music (S.T.E.A.M.). The 2015 Summer Camps range from 3D Printing, Solar Racing, and Minecraft to Music Technology, All About Singing, Art & Science, Dance & Science, Kindermusik, and much more. Full S.T.E.A.M. Ahead offers scholarships to ensure that all students have a chance to participate. For more information, visit www.fullsteamaheadfl.com or contact ryan@ fullsteamaheadfl.com.

Golisano Children’s Museum of Naples (239) 514-0084 The Golisano Children’s Museum of Naples offers a full summer of non-stop play and learning. Campers from kindergarten to 6th grade can choose from 12 fun filled thematic camps throughout the summer.

Activities keep kids moving, thinking and creating in ways that exercise not only their body, but also their brains. Summer camp takes your child’s Museum visit to the next level. Sign up now–space is limited and camps fill up fast. Located at 15080 Livingston Road, Naples.

Gulf Coast Charter School (239) 784-1539 Summer camp for students entering 1st grade through 8th grade. Offering STEM, outdoor activities and weekly field trips centered around fun themes. Lunch included. Full week, half day and full day options offered. Email lurban@gccas.org or check www.gccas.org for information.

Gulfshore Playhouse (239) 213-3049 Young performers ages 7-12 will learn the creative and technical side of theatre while rehearsing and performing. Session held June 9-27 from 8:30 a.m to 12 p.m. Monday through Friday. Teens ages

13-18 will be introduced into the creative and business side of theatre in an acting intensive held June 9-20. Scholarships are available. Gulfshoreplayhouse.org.

ferings. www.naplesplayers.org.

Impact Martial Arts Naples (239) 596-1633

Come and join us on a LEGO and Minecraft adventure. Build a Saturn v rocket that is 3 feet tall, or visit cool architectural wonders, drive your cars down ramps and even travel to distant planets in Star wars. In Minecraft camp, learn all about redstone or go on an exciting treasure hunt.

Located at 10904 Winterview Drive, Naples. www.

KidsTeklearning.com.

Summer camps are super fun at Impact. Kids love the games, activities, arts & crafts, reading times, martial arts lessons and more. From dodgeball to obstacle courses to fitness challenges, your child won’t want to leave. Impact has great instructors and a huge facility. No previous martial arts experience is necessary, and children ages 4 and up are welcome. Family discounts available. Space is limited – please register in advance at www.

ImpactNaples.com or call (239) 596-1633. Located at 5926 Premier Way #128, Naples, 34109.

Junior Golf Camp at Vasari (239) 594-3959 Children ages 4-16 can learn to play golf in these week-long camps. Topics cover the basics of golf while games and skill challenges keep kids engaged and having fun. Located at Vasari Country Club, 11250 Via De Vasari Drive, Bonita Springs.

KidzAct Youth Theatre of The Naples Players (239) 434-7340

KidsTek (239) 961-0935

Lollipops Kids Spa (239) 287-4066 Summer Workshops at Lollipops Kids Spa are designed to encourage creativity, build self-esteem and ensure kids have loads of fun. Offering a variety of workshops to choose from that are each customized to engage your child in a dynamic, fun environment.

Workshops will be held on Tuesdays and Thursdays this summer from 10a.m. to 1p.m. The cost for each workshop is $35.00. To see the full schedule of unique workshops visit www.lollipopskidsspa. com and click on workshops. Located at 13040 Livingston Road, Unit 16 , Naples, 34105.

Montessori Academy of Naples (239) 597-2255

Four sessions of Summer Theatre Camps for students aged 4 through 18 are offered by KidzAct Youth Theatre of The Naples Players with a different curriculum for each session. Professional instructors hold morning classes in all aspects of theatre: acting, singing, dance and creative dramatics.

Additionally, several fully-mounted productions are presented by the talented students during the summer. Scholarships available for all KidzAct of-

Come join us for a summer of mystery solving, skill building, and fun as we answer the questions so often asked by children: “How do you do that?”; “How does that work?”; and “How can I help?”. Areas of emphasis will be on fostering social grace and courtesy; developing practical and personal skills for both work and play and encouraging scientific inquiry and experimentation. Each program will enjoy age-appropriate activities that reinforce the idea of building specific

2014 2015 Summer Summer Camps Camps Come aboard, discover science, take a journey, uncover treasures, or become an inventor!

JUNIOR GOLF CAMP AT VASARI COUNTRY CLUB

Camp designed for kids ages 4-16 • Student/teacher ratio 6:1 max

Games and skills challenges will help kids have fun while learning to play golf!

Topics include: Chipping, pitching, putting, full swing, bunkers and group games Schedule: 9:00 AM--Noon Instruction, Group Games, Rules Seminar and Lunch

Camp Dates: Week 1: June 8, 9, 11, 12 Week 2: July 13, 14, 16, 17 Week 3: August 3, 4, 6, 7

Vasari Country Club 11250 Via De Vasari Drive Bonita Springs, FL 34135

4-Day Camps $220 or $60/per day CALL THE VASARI PRO SHOP AT 239-594-3959 NOW!

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Kinder Camp KinderCamp9am-1pm 9am-1pm June 15-19 Camping C’mon June 23-27 Packwith Your Passport

June 22-26 TheHappy Cat in the Hat C’mon Adventure July 7-11 Camper

June 29-July 3 Under the Sea July 21-25 Imagine That

July 6-10 Kamp Kinderland Grades Grades 1 & 2 1 & 29am-5pm 9am-5pm

June 15-19 Spaced Out Hidden Treasures July 14-18 Earth’s

June 29-July 3 TheBest Greatest Show on Earth July 28-Aug.1 of C’mon

July 13-17 Spy Camp

July 20-24 Best of C’mon Grades 2 & 3 The 9am-5pm

Cool Chemistry GradesJuly 3 & 4 7-11 9am-5pm July 21-25

June 22-26 TheMovie ScienceMasters of Illusion

July 6-10 Brilliant Builders

July 27-31 Cool Crafts Grades 3 & 4 C’mon 9am-5pm

The Final Frontier GradesJune 5 & 6 23-27 9am-5pm July 14-18 Maker Lab

July 13-17 Crime Scene Investigations July 28-Aug.1 TheBest of C’mon C’mon

July 20-24 Best of

Registration required: (239) 260-1600 education@cmon.org www.cmon.org

15080 Livingston Rd. Naples 34109 (located in the North Collier Regional Park - 1.5 miles from I75)

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skills and knowledge. Open to children from 3 to 12 years old. All programs incorporate outside time each day, weather permitting. For information, visit our website at www.naplesmontessori. org. Located at 2659 Professional Circle, #1118 Naples, 34119.

Naples Art Association (239) 262-6517x100 The Naples Art Association at the von Liebig Art Center invites children ages 5 to 14 to learn the “art” of enjoying summer break during its 17th annual ARTScool program, which runs from June through August at the art center, 585 Park Street.

ARTScool offers more than 40 classes in painting, drawing, sculpture, clay modeling, photography and much more. www.naplesart.org.

Naples Botanical Gardens (239) 325-1356 Camp is open to ages 5 to 12 and runs from 8am to 3pm every day. All five-year-olds must have completed Kindergarten. There are seven weeks of themed camps available. Kids will have the opportunity to connect with the natural world through art, science, exploration and play. It is the perfect camp for budding scientists, explorers, horticulturists, and chefs. Located at 4820 Bayshore Drive, Naples. www.naplesgarden.org.

Nicaea Academy (239) 353-9099 Nicaea Academy’s Vacarion Bible School themed Summer Camp will start June 1 and will go until August 10th or 17th (TBD by Collier County School Starting). This fun filled camp will be from 8:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. and the cost will be $75 a week. If you need before or after care the total

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cost per week will be $100 (7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.). Registration deadline is May 1, 2015 ($50 non-refundable registration fee). Call school or email for additional information: 239-353-9099 or jwilson@nicaeaacademy.com.

healthy driven program that will keep them active all summer long. Camp runs June 9th- August 15 from 8:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. daily. Located at 2383 Linwood Way, Naples, 34112. Check rockstarcheer. com for additional information.

Planet Tails (239) 653-9767

Sports CLUB (Sports Camp, Inc.) (239) 566-2582

Planet Tails “Learning about Animals: Critter Fun Camp” is open to ages 7-15 years old. Students can attend for one week or every week this summer. Lessons will change each week so kids will stay happy all summer long. Drop-off is between 8:30–9:00am, with pick-up between 5:30–6:00 pm. Each week will encompass critter-themed crafts, play time in Cat Cafe’, art lesson, games, animal control officer visit with a puppy, pet photography lesson, jellyfish aquarium fun, visit from a veterinarian, Cat Cafe adoption process (each child receives an adopted plush cat). Snacks provided, campers should bring bring lunch. $225/ week. $50 off for siblings. For more information email hello@planettails.com. Planet Tails is located at 2355 Vanderbilt Beach Road, #124, Naples.

Sports CLUB is offered at 5 convenient summer camp locations with a pay-by-day/week format.

The experienced Sports CLUB staff maintains an inventory of top quality equipment, supplies and games at all sites to go along with the wide variety of activities and field trips. At the Sports CLUB Center (3275 Pine Ridge Road) you’ll find a full gymnasium, gymnastics and the game zone room.

Call or visit www.sportsCLUBnaples.org to learn more and register.

Precious Cargo Academy (239) 261-7442 Precious Cargo, a full time, year round daycare and preschool offers summer camp for toddlers and preschoolers as well as VPK. Academics including mathematics, science as well as literacy skills are included. Field trips to local destinations like Barnes & Noble, Artis-Naples and the Naples Zoo are included. Located at 5200 Crayton Rd, Naples.

Rock Star Cheer (239) 261-6331 Camp Rock provides campers with a fitness and

YMCA of the Palms (239) 597-3148 The Y is offering a limited number of specialty camps for kids ages 5-12. Must have completed Kindergarten. www.Greaternaplesymca.org.

Xtreme Hang (239) 451-8664 This climbing camp covers the basic skills of rock climbing and the fundamentals of climbing movement. The Hang Xtreme rock wall features 5-climbing stations that helps builds self confidence, courage, and patience in a fun, exciting, challenging and engaging camp. It’s a fun outdoor adventure.

So bring your sunscreen, meet new friends, climb the Hang Xtreme rock wall, play fun water games and make crafts. Registration is now open, limited space is available so register early. Camp will be held at Cornerstone United Methodist Church, 8200 Immokalee Road, Naples.

NEAPOLITANfamily • April 2015

17TH ANNUAL

SUMMER ART PROGRAM FOR KIDS & TEENS

S.T.E.A.M. INTEGRATED

June 8 - August 7, 2015 Ages 5 - 14 IN-DEPTH, SUPER-FUN AND CREATIVE LEARNING LED BY PROFESSIONAL ARTISTS AVAILABLE CLASSES INCLUDE: ZOO ART, CLAYSCOOL, DRAGONS & CASTLES, PHOTOSHOP, OPEN STUDIO, GRAPHIC DESIGN, FANTASTIC FIBERS & MANY MORE

Financial Aid Available

To register call 239.262.6517 ext.100 or visit naplesart.org

Sponsored By

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SUMMER CAMP By Jennifer Gregory

Sending Your Preschooler to Day Camp This summer many preschool-aged children will be heading to day camp. Day camp for young children has many benefits, such as making new friends and learning to follow directions from adults other than their parents. Many parents also opt to send their child to day camp to help their child continue on a consistent routine of going to daycare or preschool that they have gotten used to during the school year.

Depending on the type of camp, preschoolers may also get the opportunity to learn new skills, such as swimming or gymnastics.

“I think she enjoyed the short-term friendships but appreciated the physical activity of learning gymnastics the most,” says Jini Archibald whose daughter attended gymnastics camp when she was three-years old.

Since her daughter had attended gymnastics lessons at the same place as the camp, both Archibald and her daughter were familiar with the facilities and the staff. “This gave me great peace of mind,” says Archibald.

For children who do not attend preschool, day camp can be a good opportunity

to get used being in a social environment without their parents for a short period of time. Some parents who will be sending their child to preschool for the first time in the fall use day camp as an opportunity for their child to get comfortable being in a group with other children. Since you can register for most camps on a per-week basis, you can also plan day camps around family vacations and other activities.

“For many three and four years, camp is their first experience being away from their parents. They get a chance to learn new skills and build relationships,” says Grace Ihn, a preschool camp director.

Day camps are a great way to keep your preschooler on a consistent routine throughout the summer.

They also offer an opportunity to try out new activities, make friends and get ready for Kindergarten!

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Selecting a Camp for Your Preschooler Day camps range from general camps with a weekly theme to camps that specialize in a specific activity, such as soccer or art.

Ihn recommends that parents think about the type of activities that their child enjoys before singing them up for a specialty camp.

“If your child does not enjoy athletics, you may not want to sign them up for a weeklong soccer camp,” says Ihn. She reminds parents that if they sign their three or four year old up for a specialty camp that their child will get an introduction to the sport during camp and will not be an expert at golf at the end of the week.

When picking a camp, find out the daily camp schedule and determine if the times will work with your child’s routine.

If your child still naps, try to pick a halfday camp that ends before your child’s nap time. Pick a camp with a later start time if your child sleeps later in the morning. Be sure to check camp requirements carefully if your child is not potty trained.

Consider having your preschooler attend day camp with a friend. When you register for camp, be sure to let the camp director know that she is attending with a

friend so that she can keep them in the same group during camp. Ihn finds that when preschoolers come with a friend that they often feel more comfortable and are able to easily participate in the group activities and make other friends.

Check to see if your child’s preschool offers a summer day camp. Many preschools have summer camps for preschool children who attended their school the past school year or will be attending in the fall.

“We recommend our summer program to our families because that way their child eases into the transition from home to school,” says Rachel Ridgeway,” an Activity Director at a preschool. “Our teachers really get to know the kids this way and then the child feels more comfortable on the first day of school.” Be sure to ask about the programming during the summer sessions.

Preschools typically use a curriculum for camp that is similar to their school-year routine, but often have more outside activities and free play.

day. Find out the drop off procedures and explain to your child how the first day of camp will work. Some camps prefer parents to drop their child off while others are open to parents walking in and helping their child transition. Tell your child that you will be back to pick them up at a specific time and where you will be picking them up.

Ihn says on the Monday morning of a camp that it is often the first time that many of the preschoolers have been away from their parents in a group setting. She says that even those children who have trouble separating in the morning have usually adjusted by the end of the camp day and are excited to return for day two.

Ihn finds that many campers who start coming at age three or four are the ones who return when they are teenagers to be leaders in training. “It is really rewarding to see these children grow up and become leaders for other children,” says Ihn.

Transitioning to the Camp If your child is going to be attending camp at a new place, consider visiting the facility with your preschooler before the first

JENNIFER GREGORY is the mom of two kids and three dogs. Her daughter’s favorite preschool day camp was “Messy Art” while son was partial to preschool sports camp.

NOW ACCEPTING SUMMER VPK 2535 Northbrooke Plaza Dr. Naples, FL 34119 (Across from Super Target)

(239) 593-6668 www.childmont.com License # C20CO0018

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SUMMER FUN By Kimberly Blaker

Ways Kids Can Cash-in This Summer MONEY MAKING IDEAS FOR TWEENS & TEENS

A

n important aspect of helping kids develop into responsible adults is teaching them the value and rewards of hard work and earning their own money. Through this they gain selfesteem, come to understand the real value of a dollar, and become more thoughtful in the way they spend money. Share the list below with your tween or teen for a broad range of ways they can cash-in this summer.

YOUNG ENTREPRENEUR Make the most of neighbors’ garage sales by setting up a refreshment stand in your own front yard.

You’ll need a small table and a handmade sign. Set out a pitcher of lemonade or Koolaid, disposable cups, and wrapped cookies.

At the end of the sale, add up your profits, and divide them with your partners.

TOO OLD FOR TOYS AND GAMES? If so, clean out those you’ve outgrown, and hold a sale.

Make a sign to attract neighborhood kids and passersby, and lay out blankets in your front yard, and spread out your goods. Keep your prices reasonable, and don’t forget a 25-cent box filled with odds and ends.

KIDDIE CARE Are you old enough to stay home alone? If so, you may be ready to care for other children. Spread the word through family, friends, and neighbors.

Once you’ve gained experience, post fliers in your neighborhood. When babysitting, play games and do activities with the kids, and avoid talking on the phone or watching TV. Parents love sitters that keep their children busy. Also, don’t forget to clean up and wash dirty dishes.

A LITTLE DIRT NEVER HURT Garage cleaning is a big chore, especially for the elderly. So, offer your services to relatives and neighbors. When you get a job, be thorough, and move everything into the driveway or yard before you begin. Remove cobwebs with a broom, sweep ledges and the garage floor, and then hose the garage concrete (with permission) to loosen ground-in dirt.

When it’s dry, neatly arrange everything back into the garage.

LIFE’S A ZOO Pet owners who don’t like to kennel are often in a dilemma at vacation time. Pass out fliers in your neighborhood, and offer to pet sit. Do the sitting in your home, garage, or fenced yard, if your parents agree. Otherwise, make regular visits to the pet’s home. Be responsible, and do exactly as the pet owner instructs, for both your safety and the pet’s.

DOLLARS FOR DUDS Have you hit another growth spurt? Ask your parents if you can consign your clothing and split the profits.

Look for consignment shops in the yellow pages under “resale,” “clothing – used,” or “consignment.” Find out their policies, and then get your clothing ready. Wash and iron, then hang or fold it neatly. Don’t forget shoes, jackets, and pajamas, too.

ERRANDS FOR THE ELDERLY Are there handicapped, disabled, or elderly persons in your neighborhood?

If so, they’re apt to need some help. Offer to run errands within walking or biking distance.

Attach a basket to your bike or carry a backpack for easy transporting. If you have your driver’s license, offer to do more distant-runs.

WHO’S WALKING WHOM? If you’re looking for a new summer pal, why not make it man’s

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best friend? Pass out fliers to offer your pet walking services.

sun, keep your skin safe by using a good sunscreen.

MAKE IT SHINE Round up your friends, and get ready for some cool, wet fun! Hold a car wash in your driveway or a parking lot, with permission from the property owner.

Make a large colorful “Car Wash” sign, and include your cost, no more than your local car wash charges. Have your supplies handy: a bucket of soapy water, rags or sponge, a hose, and plenty of dry towels.

DAYCARE DUTY Do you love little kids? I mean lots of little kids? Then contact daycare centers and home daycare providers, and find out if they’re in need of a young assistant. Look up daycare centers in the yellow pages and home daycare providers in classifieds, on bulletin boards, and through

A VOLUNTEER VACATION Summer camps are always in need of volunteers. So contact those you’d like to attend, and ask how you can take part. You’ll need to know the age requirements, duties involved, and what activities you’ll be able to participate in.

Summer camp staff and volunteers generally are not paid. But the experience and the week away may be well worth it.

POOL PATROL If sunbathing is your thing, then this is the job for you! Find out the age and certification requirements for lifeguard duty, and then apply at your community pool, YMCA, or nearby beach. While keeping an eye on swimmers and soaking up the

your state-licensing agency. Tasks may include assisting with crafts and activities, reading stories, helping with lunch and snacks, and cleaning up.

KIMBERLY BLAKER is an author and freelance writer. Her articles have appeared in more than 200 newspapers, parenting and women’s magazines, and other publications throughout the U.S.

TIPS FOR TWEENBUSINESS SUCCESS Follow these tips to keep the loot rolling in and to play it safe.

• Get your parents’ permission before accepting a job, and make sure they know where you’ll be.

• Dress for the type of job, and wear old clothes if they could be ruined.

• Discuss payment in advance to avoid disputes or hard feelings.

• Do your best. Not only will you earn respect and feel good about yourself, it will likely affect whether you are hired again and can use that person as a reference.

• If you make a mistake, don’t ignore it or try to cover it up. Inform your employer, offer your apologies, and ask what can be done. Your honesty will likely make your employer overlook the error.

• Be on time. Call right away, if you’ll be late or can’t make it.

• Highly Educated Instructors • Jazz, Tap, Ballet, Hip Hop, Lyrical and Modern • Competition & Performance Opportunities Available • Ages 2-18 • Enroll early to reserve your spot • See our website or call the studio for more information

SUMMER CAMPS NOW AVAILABLE

5610 Yahl Street, #10 Naples

(239) 513-6999

NAPLESDANCEARTS.COM NEAPOLITANfamily • April 2015

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FOR MORE INFORMATION: CHILD CARE SERVICES

Play and Education Masters Degree CPR, First Aid Certified Clean driving and FBI record

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ABC Swim School

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18 Holes of Golf Plates, forks, napkins & candles Tables & Chairs Drinks: Coke, Sprite, etc.

Survival Swimming for Babies & Toddlers

6 months old to 6 years old • One-on-one instruction

Only $10.00 per person Bi (the Birthday Child is Free and gets 1 year of free golf) These figures are based upon a minimum of 10 people. We will require 10 days notice.

Thank you!

239-272-0529

2205 E. Tamiami Trail Naples, FL 34112

www.abcswimschool.com PediaSwim & WSI/CPR certified

Robert Hollister, REALTOR® COMMITTED • CARING • EXPERT

(239) 793-4999 www.coralcaygolf.com

Swim Lessons Group/Private/ Your Home or Mine

Red Cross Instructor Lifeguard/CPR/1st Aid

Lessons for all ages!

Coming in May

VACATION BIBLE SCHOOLS Call 239-514-0338 for information

Specializing in frightened swimmers

RobertHollisterHomes.com 239.250.6113

Each ofce is independently owned and operated.

NIGHT NANNIES OF NAPLES

offers an overnight nanny service within the comfort of your home.

Specializing in care of newborns.

Nursery duties performed.

Sleep training offered.

WE H TEAC S! LT ADU

Collier County References Available

25 years experience

239-465-8602

The weekend is coming.

Will your kids be bored?

Not if we can help it!

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We’ve taken cleaning to a whole new level...

SERVICES AVAILABLE Home & Office Cleaning

MaidPro MUSCLE Services

plus

Not your standard cleaners

NOW OFFERING!

• Damage and theft protection? You got it.

MaidPro MUSCLE Services

• Employee backgrounds? Checked.

• Knowledgeable cleaners? MaidPro University Grads.

• Immediately Dry & Green Carpet Cleaning

• Cleaning contracts? Don’t need ‘em.

• Upholstery

• Satisfaction? Guaranteed.

• Tile & Grout

• Owner Recognition? Michelle Spitzer recipient of Hodges University’s Founders Award.

• Pressure Washing

75 off

$

CLEANING SERVICES

$25 OFF YOUR 1ST, 3RD & 5TH CLEANING

plus up to

• Window Cleaning

125 off

$

$25 OFF EACH INDIVIDUAL MaidPro MUSCLE SERVICE

MaidPro MUSCLE SERVICES

Offer cannot be combined with other offers.

contact us for your free estimate

239.596.5200 maidpro.com Servicing Marco Island, Naples, Bonita Springs and Fort Myers Area

NEAPOLITANfamily • April 2015

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NEAPOLITANfamily • April 2015