February 2016 Neapolitan Family

February 2016 neafamily.com

COMPLIMENTARY

PRESCHOOL DIRECTORY

STEM Education Why it’s so important Collier Adult Ed Options Funding College?

CCPS can help you!

NEAPOLITANfamily • February 2016

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Announcing

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NEAPOLITANfamily • February 2016

the parenting magazine devoted to collier county

PRIVATE SCHOOLS

SUMMER CAMPS

Education & Camp EXPO Thursday, March 24 4:00 to 8:00 PM Greater Naples YMCA Parents! Get the information you need to choose a private school, preschool, afterschool activities, or summer camp. Plus, other vendors on hand with goods and services you need for your family!

PRESCHOOLS

Check neafamily.com for information or call 239-514-0338

AFTERSCHOOL ACTIVITIES

NEAPOLITANfamily • February 2016

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FEBRUARY 2016 TABLE OF CONTENTS 08 Why STEM Education is So Important.

by Stacy Nicolau

in every issue . . .

04

ON THE COVER

07

FROM THE PUBLISHER

18

CITY CONNECTION City of Naples Parks Department News and Events

20

RACHEL RECOMMENDS Book reviews for kids by a kid

22

COMMUNITY EVENTS

24

CENTERFOLD CALENDAR

26

FEBRUARY EVENTS

10 Funding Your Child’s Educational Future.

How CCPS’s can help you fund college for your teen. by Julie Sprague 12 Why We’re CCPS Proud. A lot of good news from Collier Public Schools. by Dr. Kamela Patton 14 The Importance of Adult Education.

Options for learning new skills or finding a path to a new career.

by Anna Futrell

on the cover…

16 New Mom’s Corner. How to meet other moms. by Anna Futrell 38 EDUCATION GUIDE. The best preschools and private schools for Naples families.

44 Naples’ Catholic Schools offer choice to area families.

t Giveaway f i G

Logan (5) and Sawyer (2) Williams are the children of nationally exhibited artist Erin Dougherty Williams and Chihuly trained glassblower Conrad Williams. The kids attend Preschool of the Arts.

Cover photo by Peggy Farren of Avant Garde Photography • (239) 263-7001

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NEAPOLITANfamily • February 2016

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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!

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NEAPOLITANfamily • February 2016

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NEAPOLITANfamily • February 2016

from the publisher…

the parenting magazine devoted to collier county

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

THIS MONTH:

All about education

It’s that time of year–when parents in Naples focus on the next school year.

If you have a 3-5 year old, chances are you’re thinking about preschool and which option is best for your child. You won’t need to look any further than pages 38-43. We have a directory of the best preschools in Naples with enough information on each to get your started on your journey.

Copy Editor Leigh Ann Newman

We’re lucky to have so many great options available!

Cover Photographer Peggy Farren

We’re also lucky to have a public school system committed to an excellent

Sales Manager Sue Campanella

gives us the inside scoop on how CCPS’s can help you find funds for your

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 ©2016 by Neapolitan Publishing Co., LLC. All rights reserved.

Reproduction in whole or part without written permission is strictly prohibited.

education for all children. On page 10, School Board Chair Julie Sprague high school student’s college expenses. And, on page 12, we’re thrilled to have Dr. Kamela Patton share some positive information about programs within the system. Welcome to Neapolitan Family, Mrs. Sprague and Dr. Patton, we’re so happy to have you contributing your expertise for our readers!

Stacy Nicolau has contributed her expertise in the article about STEM education on pages 8-0. Stacy will fill you in on why STEM education is so important and you’ll be thrilled to find out about the many local options available to supplement your child’s learning. In other education articles, Anna Futrell offers some insights on how adults can hone their skills or plan for a new career on pages 14-15. Plus, we have an article about the state of Catholic education in Collier County on page 44.

I’d also like to remind you about our upcoming “Education and Summer Camp Expo.” It’s scheduled for March 24 at the Greater Naples YMCA. We’re now accepting vendor applications so contact us today if you’d like to participate!

Andrea Breznay Publisher

NEAPOLITANfamily • February 2016

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EDUCATION

By Stacy Nicolau

Why STEM Education Is So Important

D

oes your child’s education prepare them to make an impact on the world? Historically, the United States has emerged as a global leader in healthcare, economy, technology and national security due to the brilliance of its inventors, scientists and engineers.

The Obama Administration and the U.S. Department of Education believe that in order for the United States to remain a global leader, our education system needs to focus on teaching in science, technology, engineering and math (STEM).

Currently, only about 16 percent of college bound high school seniors plan to pursue a STEM career, according to the U.S. Department of Education website. Of those students, only half choose to work in a STEM field. A federal, five-year Strategic Plan for STEM Education is now in progress through this agency to sustain and engage youth by providing an equal opportunity to STEM instruction for grades kindergarten through 12, undergraduate, and graduate students. The five strategies of this plan are: • • • • •

To provide specialized STEM training to existing and 100,000 new teachers by 2020.

To increase the number of children who have STEM experience by 50% before high school graduation.

To graduate one million more students with degrees in STEM fields over the next 10 years.

To increase the participation of under-represented groups in STEM careers such as women and minorities.

To improve graduate training in STEM fields according to national importance.

Locally, our public and private schools are working toward these goals. In addition to STEM curriculum, students in grades 3-5 can participate in regional math competitions, science fairs, LEGO engineering, and Hour of Code, where all elementary and select 8

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middle school students learn to write code for computer programs.

Middle and high school students can achieve industry Microsoft Certification and participate in regional science and engineering fairs. High school students can enroll in engineering academies and advanced courses in math and science. All students can participate in STEM conferences and other STEM-related fairs.

Some local businesses and organizations are providing STEMrelated extra-curricular opportunities as well.

The NAACP of Collier County, in collaboration with Florida Gulf Coast University, has organized STEM summer camps for youth to increase skills in math and familiarity with STEM-related fields by exposing minority and low-income students to practicing professionals and potential internship opportunities.

Throughout February, The Edison Festival of Light in Fort Myers celebrates one of the greatest inventors to contribute to mankind, Thomas Alva Edison. The STEMtastic Day of Discovery during the festival will provide fun exhibits and entertainment for children and their families.

STEM education “is more than a school subject, ” President Obama once stated. “It is an approach to the world, a critical way to understand and explore and engage with the world, and then have the capacity to change that world...”The Collier and Lee County Libraries offer numerous free programs such as LEGO clubs and STEAM workshops that provide age appropriate learning activities throughout the year.

STEM education also can occur in the home. When shopping for toys, instead of focusing on “girl toys” or “boy toys”, look for puzzles, science experiments, and problem-solving games. Construction toys, such as LEGOs, are vital to building engineering skills for boys and girls alike. On weekends and vacations, families can visit C’MON and the Imaginarium in Fort Myers for exhibits that focus on hands-on learning. Learn about environmental science at places like the Conservancy of Southwest Florida, Corkscrew Sanctuary, and Rookery Bay. Marine science is all around us in Southwest Florida and can be observed through free, guided beach walks at Barefoot Beach and eco-tours with organizations such as the 10,000 Islands Dolphin Project.

Throughout February, The Edison Festival of Light in Fort Myers celebrates one of the greatest inventors to contribute to mankind, Thomas Alva Edison. The STEMtastic Day of Discovery during the festival will provide fun exhibits and entertainment for children and their families.

STEM education “is more than a school subject, ” President Obama once stated. “It is an approach to the world, a critical way to understand and explore and engage with the world, and then have the capacity to change that world...”

STACY NICOLAU is the mother of 3 and the Assistant Publisher of Neapolitan Family magazine. Stacy frequently writes about educational topics.

NEAPOLITANfamily • February 2016

Boys and Girls Club of Collier County www.bgccc.com/programs/academics or 239-325-1700 Ongoing Career and Education Development Program STEM Lab. Build a Terrarium with Naples Botanical Garden South Regional Library, February 3, 3:30 to 4:30 PM Marco Island Library, February 11, 3:30 to 4:30 PM Children in grades 2-5 will create a terrarium to take home. Learn about the building blocks of nature and create a closed ecosystem in a mason jar. Registration required.

Collier County Fairgrounds STEM Initiative March 17-27 www.colliercountyfair.com/stem 239-455-1444 This year’s Fair will have the following exhibits and competitions: LEGO Team Build Off, 3D Pen Demonstrations and Contests, 3D Printing, and Augmented Reality Sandbox. If you or your group are interested in participating in the STEM displays / projects during the fair, contact STEM@CollierCountyFair.Com. Collier County Public Library STEAM Workshops www.collierlibrary.org/ programs/2016-programs-childrens-teen.pdf 239-593-0334

FGCU Whitaker Center for Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics Education www.fgcu.edu/ WhitakerCenter/K-12.html 239-590-1000 Provides programming to public and private K-12 schools in their efforts to bring forth reform related to STEM education.

Full S.T.E.A.M. Ahead https://fullsteamaheadfl.com After-school enrichment classes at Sports CLUB and summer camp at C’MON. Girls in Engineering, Math & Science (GEMS) April 2, Time TBA Email: GEMS@fgcu.edu Girls in Engineering, Math and Science This program provides hands-on experiences with science & engineering professionals in an exploration of the wonders of science. iPad Math Fun South Regional Library, April 13, 3:30 PM to 4:30 PM Students in grades 2-5 will improve math skills by solving intriguing math problems and puzzles with the library’s iPads. Registration is limited and required.

KidsTek Learning www.kidsteklearning.com 239-961-0935

Providing hands-on engineering, teamwork and problem solving through LEGO projects, KidsTek Learning conducts summer camps and classes as well as programs at some local private schools.

LEGO® Art History South Regional Library, March 9, 3:30 to 5:00 PM Marco Island Library, March 10, 3:30 to 5:00 PM Students in grades 2-5 will learn about different types of art and the periods in which they were created. Children will then create your own masterpieces using mosaic and other Lego bricks. Registration required.

Mathletes Summer Camp Contact The Mathletes Team at mathletes@fgcu.edu.

NAACP Summer Camp www.naacpcolliercounty.com/ project/steam/ 239-455-2886 The purpose of this program is to expose minority and low income students to education and careers in STEM.

Hands-on activities from local environmental agencies. Free and open to the public for ages 3-18.

5th Annual STEM Competition March 7, Time TBA Email The Whitaker Center at whitakercenter@fgcu.edu.

STEMtastic Day of Discovery at Edison Festival of Light February 13 at 10:00 AM. Harborside Event Center, Fort Myers http://edisonfestival.org/events/ event/stemtastic-day-of-discovery/ STEMtastic Day of Discovery allows families the opportunity to participate in both indoor and outdoor interactive area which features science, technology, engineering and math related exhibits, games and presentations by a number of organizations. Free event.

Science Saturday at Seacrest Country Day School February 6, 10:30 to 1:30 PM www.seacrest.org/sciencesaturday 239-793-1986

STEM and STEAM Programs and Events Check out our schedule at www.CollierAdultEd.com

Call 239.377.1234 with questions 3 Ar

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sses 3 Fo reign Lang Clas uage ses 3 Co mpu te Clas ses r

NEAPOLITANfamily • February 2016

Gulf Coast Academy South

STEM SUMMER CAMP

215 Airport Road N., Naples, FL 34104

(239) 784-1539 www.gccas.org

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COLLIER COUNTY SCHOOL BOARD UPDATE

By Julie Sprague, Chairwoman, Collier County School Board

Funding Your Child’s Educational Future F

ebruary on a high school campus is a special time of year. Seniors are getting accepted to their dream college and their parents are working diligently to make sure they can afford it. We all know that navigating the college money maze is not an easy task. It is probably one of the most stressful things students and their families will go through in their lifetime. The cost of four years of tuition, room, board, books, and fees can run into the tens of thousands of dollars.

Collier County Public Schools (CCPS) wants to ensure that you get the help you need to make your child’s college dream a reality by holding multiple financial aid events throughout the year. From October through January, parents and students had the opportunity to attend one of eight Financial Aid Information Nights. District and community experts presented our parents and students with vital information such as federal grants,

student loans and scholarships, and how to apply for the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).

Speaking of the FAFSA, it is not a secret that many students and parents are fearful of this on-

line applica-

tion for federal student aid. The biggest misconception is that parents do not think they will qualify based on their income.

Our school counselors say there is only one way to find out, apply anyway! The 108-question, 10-page form requires information from your last tax return, bank statements, records of investments, and statements of untaxed income. However, the application is getting easier than ever by allowing you to skip unnecessary and irrelevant questions.

Plus, you can now import your tax return information from the IRS into your online FAFSA form using the IRS Data Retrieval Tool. Starting next year, students will be able to fill out their FAFSA application in October instead of January. This is a major change that will save time and allow you to use your 2015 tax return instead of waiting for 2016 numbers. The bottom line is that the application is well worth the effort to see if you are eligible for free money for college.

Coming up in

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NEAPOLITANfamily • February 2016

February, CCPS is partnering with several other organizations for College Goal Sunday, a free program that helps students and families complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). There will be several locations and times available during the last two weekends of February.

• Sunday, February 21, 1-4 pm at Golden Gate High School (2925 Titan Way) • Saturday, February 27, 9 am-12 pm at Palmetto Ridge High School (1655 Victory Lane) • Saturday, February 27, 1-4 pm at Immokalee High School (701 Immokalee Drive) I highly recommend you attend one of these sessions during your child’s junior year. This way you know the deadlines and expectations heading into their senior year.

CCPS will also be holding a very important Virtual Town Hall Meeting on March 1, 2016, that addresses funding your child’s educational future. The meeting will take place at 6 pm in the Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Administrative Center (5775 Osceola Trail, Naples) with telecast locations at Immokalee Technical Center (508

Looking for college funds for your child? Be sure to check the scholarship database on the Collier County Public Schools website at www.collierschools.com North 9th Street, Immokalee) Everglades City School (415 School Drive, Everglades City) and the Naples Daily News Community Room (1100 Immokalee Road). You can also watch it live on The Education Channel (Comcast channel 99) or streaming live at www.collierschools.com.

Now when it comes to getting scholarships, students should be prepared to work hard. Scholarships take time and effort.

You do not want to wait until your senior year to get started. There are some awards (mostly competitions) that begin as early as ninth grade. I would encourage everyone to check out the fantastic scholarship database

on the Collier County Public Schools website at www.collierschools.com. The database has numerous search options to make it easy for you to find a scholarship opportunity for your child. New scholarships are continuously being added. During the 2014-2015 school year, $29.7 million was awarded to Collier County Public Schools students. That’s up from $28 and $22 million the prior two school years.

A final note for parents of collegebound students, it does not pay to procrastinate. Federal student aid is on a firstcome, first-served basis, so apply as soon as possible. The same goes for scholarships, especially those coming directly from the college you plan to attend.

CCPS wants all students to have a pathway to success after graduation. The first steps along the pathway need to start in middle school. Success is a partnership between parents, students, and our fantastic educators. This is how today’s learners become tomorrow’s leaders!

JULIE SPRAGUE is the Chairwoman of the Collier County School Board and can be reached at SpraguJu@collierschools.com.

FREE COMMUNITY EVENT

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Meet Alex Timin! Amazon #1 Best-Selling Author of BULLYPROOF: Unleash the Hero Inside Your Kid

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COLLIER COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOLS

By Dr. Kamela Patton, Superintendent Collier County Public Schools

W

e are CCPS Proud of our students, teachers, and staff for the great work they do each and every day. Our district leadership teams continue to add rigor to our coursework, and we continue to see significant gains in student achievement. We are CCPS Proud to report that our district-wide graduation rate climbed to 84.3 percent for the 2014-2015 school year. This is seven percentage points above the state average, and makes us one of the top ten school districts in the state. This is an increase of more than 11.8 percentage points since the 201011 school year. It is important to note that the 84.3 percent graduation rate does not mean 15.7 percent of students are dropouts. Non-graduating students may include retained students, students who receive certificates of completion (they earned the required credits with a 2.0 GPA or higher, but did not pass the state assessments), students who earn a General Education Diploma (GED), or students with disabilities who earn a special diploma.

While walking across the stage at a graduation ceremony is a major accomplishment and should be celebrated, having a pathway to success in college or career for all students is our ultimate goal.

Did you know college-bound students have many different academic options to prepare for college? Your child may take Advanced Placement classes, Cambridge Advanced International Certificate of Education (AICE) course-work, or Dual Enrollment classes on campus or at Florida Gulf Coast University and Florida SouthWestern State College. Students may also choose to take career-based dual enrollment courses through our own technical colleges at I-Tech in Immokalee or Lorenzo Walker Technical College in Naples. If

your child wants to be an engineer, a small business entrepreneur, a pharmacy technician, or even a pilot, we have a rigorous program for them through one of our 22 high school academies. We continue to add programs to inspire and to challenge all students. This effort now reaches middle and elementary school as well. This year we have added an elementary school math competition. Elementary teams will go to their designated middle schools for regional competitions. Next year, we will debut Cambridge Secondary Middle School Program. This is an extension of our AICE coursework that can lead to an AICE diploma in high school. These new additions bring additional rigor and competition to all three educational levels.

The last five years have brought substantial change to the education world. Since 2011, we have had a major state mandated change implemented each year. Even through all of this change, CCPS students have shined!

In 2011, there were 18 state tests, CCPS students’ scores met or exceeded the state average on 33% of all state assessments. In 2015, we climbed to 22 state tests. In 2015, our students’ scores met or exceeded the state average on 91% of all state assessments.

That is a 58% increase in just 4 years!

Though there is always room for improvement, we are extremely proud of our accomplishments. We strive to improve each and every day. By enhancing academic rigor, analyzing our student academic data, and providing supports for all students, we continue strategically improving the quality of Collier County Public Schools.

For additional information call (239) 377-0180 or email communications@collierschools.com.

Why We’re CCPS Proud!

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Kids Galore & More Community Consignment Event

Offering families an opportunity to BUY and SELL gently used and new baby, kids and maternity items at a fraction of the cost.

Naples Sale Dates Will Be Announced Soon!

In addition to the consignment sale, the event will be an opportunity for parents to shop local preschools, summer camps, and community entities.

WHAT YOU MIGHT FIND . . .

• Toys • Baby Equipment & Gear • Bikes & Trikes • Children’s & Maternity Clothing • Sports Equipment and so much more!

Practically Everything & Anything For Expecting Parents, Arriving Babies And Growing Kids! www.kgamconsignmentevents.com • Now Accepting Consignors!

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Providing Care for Infants, Toddlers, Preschool, VPK NOW OFFERING AFTER SCHOOL PROGRAMS K-5th GRADE

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

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Baby Sign Language used in all infant and toddler classrooms

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Instilling school preparedness through mathematics, science, literacy that enforces sight words, phonics, letter recognition, and a Kindergarten Readiness Program Parent Trainings and Workshops available!

Field trips including: Barnes & Noble, The Artis Naples, The Children’s Museum, Naples Zoo, The Conservancy of SWFL, The Glenview Naples, and the Naples Botanical Gardens Afterschool Program that includes homework time, tutoring, games, crafts, and snacks!

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

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

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

EMAIL: Leanne.badham@outlook.com

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EDUCATION

By Anna Futrell

The Importance of

Adult Education

Continuing education in Collier County is a fantastic way to learn new skills, connect socially with other adults in an educational setting, pursue various areas of study for a new career, or challenge yourself intellectually. their fields, particularly with the integration and implementation of new technologies. It is essential to stay on top of these types of developments in any field to remain current and indispensable to an employer.

D

o you desire to further grow your professional skill sets? Have you ever considered pursuing a new hobby or digging deeper into a hobby you already enjoy? Maybe you are considering a career change and would like to obtain a professional certificate. Options for continuing education for adults in Collier County continue to increase with the growth of our town and the demand for further educational opportunities. Add to this the fact that continuing education is vital in most fields and industries, particularly those industries upon which our local economy relies: tourism (food services, hos-

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pitality, etc.), healthcare and health services, education, and small business operation.

The benefits of lifelong learning are vast and undisputed. Adults who want to keep their minds and skills sharp always should be learning from others in educational settings. Continuing education can provide learning opportunities for those who have been in various industries for extended periods of time. Additionally, these types of educational settings give professionals the chance to gain an advantage and experience growth within their current job. Continuing education exposes participants to new developments within

The path to a new career Have you ever thought about become a welder, massage therapist or aircraft mechanic? For those considering a new or second career, there are so many burgeoning fields of study – ones that do not necessarily require a full, undergraduate degree. Rather, these fields require completing certificate programs, some of which include internship or apprenticeship requirements.

Alongside such certificate programs are opportunities to gain new skills and learn new hobbies in low-pressure, nonthreatening environments from experts within various fields. Typically, teachers have many years of experiences and a desire to share their knowledge and skills with adults in Collier County. Learning about ceramic arts, writing your first novel, using a new device or social media, or how to unlock the mysteries of Microsoft Excel has never been easier!

NEAPOLITANfamily • February 2016

Non-credit classes All of the classes and institutions listed below offer adult education classes. The courses are considered non-credit classes, which do not count towards obtaining an undergraduate (or graduate) degree.

Rather, they are designed for the purpose of meeting certificate program requirements, or for participants’ own experience and edification.

• CCPS Adult and Community Education. This branch of Collier County Public Schools offers an array of basic courses in various fields of study, such as cooking, business software, languages, exercise and health, and the arts. Learn to draw, play an instrument, or utilize a new piece of technology. The options are wide and varied, and there are several classes offered online as well. For more information or to sign up for a class, visit www.collieradulted.com.

• FGCU – The Renaissance Academy. Florida Gulf Coast University founded The Renaissance Academy, an adult education center, in 2001 with the purpose of promoting lifelong learning, creativity, and social engagement. It provides educational opportunities many locations throughout Southwest Florida, along with various overseas travel opportunities throughout the year. The Renaissance Academy features multi-session courses, day classes, special events, film series, discussions, and lectures.

For more information, visit http://www.fgcu.edu/racademy/.

• Frances Pew Hayes Center for Lifelong Learning (Hodges – Naples). Established in 1996, the Center for Lifelong Learning provides quality educational programs to adults in the community at a reasonable cost. From lecture series to book discussions to field trips, the CLL offers ways for adults in the community to engage intellectually and socially. For more information on course offerings, visit http://www.hodges.edu/ lifelongLearning.

• Florida Southwestern State – Online Certificate Programs (non-credit). Florida Southwestern State (formerly Edison State College) offers opportunities for non-credit study. These courses are offered to individuals exclusively online. Career training is offered in areas such as health care, hospitality, graphic design, and real estate. For more information, visit https://www.fsw.edu/ce.

• Lorenzo Walker Technical College. Located in Central Naples, Lorenzo Walker is a trade school for those looking to become certified in a specific vocation. Programs of study range from computer systems and information technology certification programs to phlebotomy to cosmetology. Program costs vary, and both day and evening classes are offered. For more information, visit http://lwit.edu/.

Continuing education in Collier County is a fantastic way to learn new skills, connect socially with other adults in an educational setting, pursue various areas of study for a new career, or challenge yourself intellectually. Whatever your goals may be, there are lots of great opportunities within Naples to learn and grow.

ANNA FUTRELL has a bachelor’s in English and Secondary Education from Wheaton College. Anna and her husband, Jim have a daughter, Windley. Anna is passionate about writing, cooking, running, playing the piano, and encouraging other new moms in their journey.

NEAPOLITANfamily • February 2016

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NEW MOM’S CORNER

By Anna Futrell

How to Meet Other Moms If you’re a new mom looking for friendship, support or just a little time outside of the house, we have suggestions to help you find other mothers who are looking for friends like you!

S

uddenly catapulted into the world of motherhood, bringing home your first baby is at once overwhelming and life altering. For about nine months, you plan, you prepare, you think through what you need in your home and nursery, and you read lots and lots of parenting books, all the while waiting expectantly to meet your teeny, tiny person. When she arrives, though, everything changes in an instant. Priorities shift, decisions are made, and everything you thought you knew and understood about life – even about parenting – shifts.

This massive shift, coupled with the fact that most paternity leaves are two weeks or less (my husband took two days), can make the transition to motherhood very lonely. Even though I had support from family and friends, I found it difficult to connect with other moms after I had my daughter, and the entire 9-10 hour day without my husband stretched on seemingly endlessly. I felt a little lonely and a little overwhelmed, but a lot in love with my baby.

From what I have grown to understand, these types of reactions and feelings are common as people transition into parenthood.

Throughout the stages of having a newborn and finding one’s groove as a mom, it is often helpful for new moms to connect with other moms around her. In this way, she can gain insight and support, combat loneliness, and (hopefully) form lasting friendship – not to mention, have some fun during the day!

But how is a new mom supposed to meet other moms in Southwest Florida? It can be difficult, but the most important thing I’ve found is that you just have to put yourself (and your baby) out there, attend events where you don’t know anyone else, and walk up to other moms and introduce yourself. This can be a nerve wracking and uncomfortable process for some, especially when you throw sleep deprivation into the mix. But when all is said and done, we parents have a lot in common – and we have a lot we can learn from one another.

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NEAPOLITANfamily • February 2016

Here are a few places and events that are typically great opportunities for connecting with other moms: • www.MeetUp.com. Create a free profile and learn about various events going on for parents in Southwest Florida. Lots of neat things are posted and advertised on here – specifically, fitness opportunities for new moms, new moms’ monthly coffee dates, and play dates at the Children’s Museum of Naples. This is a great way to find out about low-key events geared towards new parents specifically.

• MOPS Chapters (Mothers of Preschoolers). MOPS is a faithbased organization that provides support and encouragement for mothers of preschool-aged children. MOPS groups include regularly scheduled meetings, which typically included time to get to know the other moms there, along with other activities. There are several chapters throughout Southwest Florida that meet throughout the week. Contact the individual churches for more information.

– Center Point Community Church. First and third Wednesdays of the month, 6 PM to 7:30 PM. (239) 261-7486.

– Life Christian Church. Second and fourth Wednesdays of the month, 9:30 AM to 11:30 AM. (239) 304-5483.

– First Baptist Church of Naples. First and third Thursdays of the month, 9:15 AM to 11:30 AM. (239) 287-3371, • Collier County Public Library. Attend one of the “Mother Goose Story Times” for babies aged 3 months to 15 months at one of the Collier County Public Library branches. Story times geared towards babies are 30 minutes in length. Reach out to other parents while you are there.

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• Faith-Based Activities for Women. A few area churches offer nondenominational faith-based programs specifically geared towards women. Whether you are a stay-at-home mom, or on maternity leave, attending one of these programs can be a great way to connect with other moms.

– Community Bible Study, Tuesdays 9:15 AM to 11:30 AM at Center Point Community Church. (239) 261-7486.

– Bible Study Fellowship, Mondays 6:55 PM to 9:00 PM at Covenant Church of Naples. (239) 597-1412.

• Baby Bootcamp Classes. I’ve written about this fantastic class in the past – it is an amazing way to connect with other moms while getting your pre-baby body back! This group meets throughout the week to exercise outdoors with their babies (bring your jogging stroller) at the Mercato, Venetian Village, and Miromar Outlets, and they usually get together afterwards for coffee. It is a close-knit, fun community for moms. For more information, call (239) 560-6893.

As a new mom, connecting with other moms (new or seasoned) is essential! These are some ways I’ve found effective in getting to know moms and developing a community. A friend of mine with three children encouraged me, “The days may feel long, but the years are short.” Time flies by when you become a mom; enjoy those long days and combat loneliness as best you can. And, if you’d like to meet up with me and my daughter one day, feel free to reach out on social media … or meet me at Fleischmann Park. We’re usually there on Thursday mornings!

NEAPOLITANfamily • February 2016

SCIENCE SUNDAYS Slimy, squishy, & super awesome experiments!

• Dissect an Owl Pellet, Squid, Heart & More!

• Join us on the 2nd and 4th Sunday of each month at 2 PM. • Workshops are $10. Registration required.

15080 Livingston Rd. • Naples 34109 239-514-0084 • www.cmon.org neafamily.com

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CITY CONNECTION PARKS DEPT. by Laura Tichy-Smith

February Fun Forecast for the City of Naples!

Entertainment, classes and sports leagues await you at these programs and events offered by the City of Naples Community Services Department.

Free Concerts at the Cambier Park Bandshell Bring a blanket for the whole family and enjoy free concerts in Cambier Park. Concert schedule: Naples Concert Band on Saturday, Feb 6 at 7 p.m.; Naples Dixieland Band on Sunday, Feb. 7 at 2 p.m.; Music Makers on Monday, Feb. 8 at 7 p.m.; Gulfcoast Big Band on Sunday, Feb. 14 at 2 p.m.; Naples Concert Band on Sunday, Feb. 28 at 2 p.m. For more information, call 239-213-3058. Cambier Park is located at 755 Eighth Avenue South, Naples.

Free Concert at River Park Community Center The Jazz Masters will present a free concert of Dixieland jazz at the Community Center on Saturday, Feb. 13 at 2 p.m. For more information, call 239-213-3037. The Community Center is located at 301 11th Street North, Naples.

Parents’ Night Out hosted by Miss Cricket Want a Friday night out? Miss Cricket, the gymnastics and afterschool instructor at Fleishmann Park, has got you covered. Dinner, games and a big screen movie equals a tired kid to pick up. Friday, Feb. 12 from

6 — 9:30 p.m.; $20. Pre-registration is required. For more information, call 239213-3020. Fleishmann Park is located at 1600 Fleishmann Blvd., Naples.

Baby Fitness (18 months and up)

Children can enjoy a craft, games, a movie, and pizza at Friday Night Out on Feb. 12.

Instill healthy habits for life in your toddler by attending the drop-in class called Mommy and Me Open Gym at Fleishmann Park, 1600 Fleishmann Blvd. on Fridays from 10 — 11:30 a.m. $5 per child. For more information, call 239-213-3020.

Friday Night Out (Ages 5 — 22) Children can enjoy a craft, playground time, games and a movie, along with pizza for dinner while mom and dad enjoy a night out.

Friday Night Out at River Park on Friday, Feb. 12 from 5:30 — 9:30 p.m.; $15.

Pre-registration is required.

For more information, call 239-213-3037. River Park is located at 301 11th Street North, Naples.

239-260-2100

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NEAPOLITANfamily • February 2016

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POP TOY is the place to come for unique toys, games, puzzles, dolls and other fun gifts. We carry specialty toys to the must have toys of the season. We offer personal shopping, complimentary gift bags, and worldwide shipping. Come experience toy shopping like it should be.

NEAPOLITANfamily • February 2016

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RACHEL RECOMMENDS

Book Reviews

RACHEL NEWMAN is 10 years old and in the fifth grade at Sea Gate Elementary.

She is active in Irish dancing, piano, flute, acting and volleyball. Writing, reading, and watching “I Love Lucy” are her great joys, along with taking pictures of her cats.

Bumped Up by Pam Greer

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ayton and Renika (Neeka) are best friends who do everything together, including sports. In Bumped Up by Pam Greer, Payton and Neeka grow apart, make new friends, and play volleyball. The girls also end up becoming each other: Neeka, who always failed at everything, becomes a volleyball all-star, and Payton, the basketball star, for once isn’t the best at something.

This book really kept me wondering: would their friendship heal, would their varsity team make it to District Championships and win? I love when I can’t stop reading a book, and I couldn’t stop reading this one!

My favorite scene was when the whole varsity team had to touch the lucky doorknob. There’s a doorknob on a door in the school library that is supposed to be lucky, ever since the football team all touched it and then won a big game. I loved that scene because it really showed the whole team was really devoted to volleyball. The girls all got up bright and extra early in the morning to go to touch a lucky doorknob that might not even work! To me that shows devotion. But, to be honest there really isn’t a favorite scene in the book for me. That is only ONE of my favorites.

My favorite character is Lacey, because she was replaced by Neeka in the starting line-up, but didn’t go into hysterics! I loved how when Payton asked her how she dealt with not being on the starting line-up she said that every team needs subs, and that they can’t be a team without subs. They need the subs to be there in case a player gets hurt or injured. Those words were really powerful and, to me, I think they had a pretty big meaning.

This book is about volleyball, but it’s also about sportsmanship, friendship, and to keep trying even when it’s rough. I really think that you don’t need to play volleyball to read this book. But if you do like volleyball, this book is extra special. It’s hard to find novels about volleyball. I know, I’ve looked.

I would recommend this book to girls and boys ages nine and up, considering some of the vocabulary is a little higher, but parents, don’t worry about the content on this one.

Because Pam Greer loves volleyball, and worked as a physical therapist for pro beach volleyball players, she wrote two other books. Payton and Renika also are the main characters in Queens of the Court and Block City.

If you have suggestions for books for Rachel to review, e-mail your suggestions to: rachel.v.newman@outlook.com.

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NEAPOLITANfamily • February 2016

Chloe is an outgoing 16-year-old who loves animals, art and being the center of attention. She also struggles with a seizure disorder and has difficulty learning, making friends, sitting still, controlling her mood and understanding boundaries.

Her mother exhausted every possible medical solution and had little hope when she came to DLC for help.

Over the next year, their entire family participated in the Community Action Team’s holistic treatment process and experienced profound healing.

Chloe shares, “DLC has made a big difference in my life. They helped me set goals, taught us how to manage my emotions and found medication that helps control my anger.”

Their feelings of desperation have been replaced with compassion, patience and optimism and the transformation is inspiring.

Her Mind is Our Concern.

Mental health is a community issue.

Fortunately, there’s a community solution.

Chloe 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.

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.

NEAPOLITANfamily • February 2016

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YOUR COMMUNITY NEWS & EVENTS

Science Saturday

Conservancy Pre-K & Kindergarten Programs

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eacrest will host its fourth annual Science Saturday on Saturday, February 6 from 10:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m.. Children ages 3-18 can engage in exciting science experiments and activities. The event is free and open to the public Participating organizations include: Big Cypress National Preserve; Bonita Center for the Arts; City of Naples Natural Resources: Artificial Reef Initiative; Conservancy of Southwest Florida; Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary; Defenders of Wildlife; Everglades Astronomical Society; Everglades Foundation; MarineLab; Naples Botanical Garden; Naples Zoo; ORI Ocean Reef Restoration; Rookery Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve; and Shy Wolf Sanctuary.

Seacrest Country Day School is located at 7100 Davis Boulevard, Naples. For more information, visit www.seacrest.org/ sciencesaturday or contact Jessica Castleberry, Director of Communications and Marketing, at 239-793-1986.

he Conservancy of Southwest Florida is introducing a new Pre-K outreach program, Wildlife Adventure Series. A Conservancy of Southwest Florida naturalist will come to early learning centers and pre-schools to deliver the new program. The Wildlife Adventure Series is geared toward preschool age children and consists of age appropriate nature lessons and hands-on activities. Each program also features a live animal encounter.

“With the new Wildlife Adventure Preschool Series we are expanding our reach into the community, hoping to inspire a love of nature in our young learners and future leaders,” said Michelle Rebilas, Education Manager at the Conservancy of Southwest Florida.

“Research shows the earlier a person makes a connection to conservation, the more willing he or she is to protect it for life.”

Within the series there are three unique programs from which educators can select: · Awesome Alligators, · Slither, Slither Snake and · Terrific Turtles Program dates will be offered in January 2016. Educators are encouraged to reserve space now. More information is online www. conservancy.org/our-work/education/outreach or call the Education Programs Administrator, Cheryl Latif at 239-262-0304 ext.266.

The Conservancy of Southwest Florida, world-class Nature Center and von Arx Wildlife Hospital are headquartered in Naples, Florida, 1495 Smith Preserve Way, south of the Naples Zoo off Goodlette-Frank Road. Learn more about the Conservancy’s work and how to support the quality of life in Southwest Florida www.conservancy.org.

Health / Safety Day & Open House at Temple Shalom Preschool

Bully Proof Kids Day at Impact Martial Arts

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free “Bully Proof Kids Day” will be held on Saturday, February 20 at Impact Martial Arts. Kids will learn useful ways to deal with bullying through games and activities. Parents and children can meet Alex Timin, Amazon #1 Best-Selling author of BULLYPROOF: Unleash the Hero Inside Your Kid. Impact Martial Arts classes teach selfcontrol, focus, and listening as well as following directions through fun and engaging martial arts drills. Children as young as 3 years old improve their balance, coordination, their ability to pay attention, and their respectfulness.

Impact Martial Arts is located at 5926 Premier Way Unit 128, Naples.

Call 239-596-1622 or check www.impactnaples.com for additional information.

free Health and Safety Day will be held at Temple Shalom Preschool on February 14 beginning at 11:00 a.m. The event will focus on educating children about health and safety. Children will enjoy seeing fire trucks, ambulances, EMT and other official vehicles.

The police department will be on hand with their mascot, McGruff the Crime Dog, teaching the children about combating crime in the area. Water safety, a major concern for parents in the area, is reinforced. Domestic Animal Services will be present, along with Smokey the Bear from the Department of Forestry. The preschool’s exciting bicycle track will be open and children will learn about bicycle safety while having fun.

Parents will also have a chance to tour the preschool and meet the teachers while children will have fun listening to a story in the Storyland Children’s Library and seeing the Technology Lab, Professor Einstein’s Laboratorium, jump in the bounce house, ride a pony, climb on the rock wall or get their face painted. Food will be available for purchase.

Temple Shalom Preschool is located at 4630 Pine Ridge Road, Naples. Call 239-455-3227 for more information.

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NEAPOLITANfamily • February 2016

YOUR COMMUNITY NEWS & EVENTS

Introducing Naples New Music School

7th Annual Valentine’s Day Vow Renewal Ceremony at Lovers Key

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ove is always in the air at Lovers Key, but even more so on Valentine’s Day. Couples are invited to join to the park for a special 7th Annual Vow Renewal Ceremony at the Gazebo on the beach.

Couples will have the opportunity to choose either a 10:00am ceremony or a 3:00pm ceremony. Both ceremonies will include a Champagne Toast, full brunch or lunch, coffee, cake and desserts, dancing, socializing, as well as a special gift and door prizes.

Pre-registration for this event is required as it is expected to sell out. To register, please contact the Event Chair, Judy Greenwood by phone 708-359-0466, or email fjgreenwood@gmail.com The fee to participate is $75 per couple, non-refundable donation to the Friends of Lovers Key, Inc. (FOLKS).

For additional information please contact Event Chair, Judy Greenwood at (708) 359-0466, or email fjgreenwood@gmail.com

Go Red for Heart Health this February

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he Southwest Florida Division of American Heart Association encourages individuals, businesses and organizations to “Go Red” for Heart Month this February by participating in National Wear Red Day, Friday, February 5, 2016.

While all of February is National Heart Month, Friday, February 5 is National Wear Red Day, designed to bring attention to the facts about heart health.

• Cardiovascular disease is the leading global cause of death, accounting for 17.3 million deaths per year.

• Nearly 787,000 people in the U.S. died from heart disease, stroke and other cardiovascular diseases in 2011. That’s about one of every three deaths in America. Cardiovascular diseases claim more lives than all forms of cancer combined.

• Cardiovascular disease claims the lives nearly 500,000 women in the US each year.

For more information on National Wear Red Day and the Heart Association’s Go Red for Women® campaign, please visit www.GoRedForWomen.org. Local Cause sponsors include Lee Memorial Health System and Arthrex.

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NEAPOLITANfamily • February 2016

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6:00 PM. Movies on the Lawn at Mercato. Movies start at dusk. Bring a blanket or chair for seating. Located at 9128 Strada Place, Naples. Call 239-5949400 for additional information.

10:00 AM. Twinkle Outreach Book Giveaway. All children are welcome to receive 3 free books of their choice.

Children must be present. Located at 4172 Tamiami Trail North, Naples.

11:00 AM. Health & Safety Day / Open House. Fire trucks, EMT vehicles, police cars, and a few surprises. This event is open to the public.

Located at 4630 Pine Ridge Road, Naples.

Call 239-455-3227 for information.

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5:30 PM. Pups and Books at East Napls Branch Library. Read to a dog or just to pet one.

All ages. Registration not required. 8787 Tamiami Trail East, Naples. Call 239775-5592 or check http://public.collierlib.org for info. 18

10 6:00 PM. Wild Kratts Live! Animated Kratt Brothers, Martin and Chris, “come to real life” in a classically Wild Kratts story. Germain Arena, 11000 Everblades Pkwy, Estero. 239335-0457 or check www.germainarena. com for ticket info.17

5:30 PM. Valentine’s Party at Vanderbilt Beach Library. Games, crafts and treats at this “hearty party.” Ages 2-6 years. Registration required. 788 Vanderbilt Beach Road, Naples. Call 239-5978444.

5:00 PM. Montessori Academy of Naples Open House. For more information go to www. naplesmontessori.org or call 239-597-2255.

4:00 PM. The Incredible Shrinking Valentine at Estates Library. Drop in between 4-5 p.m.. Open to grades pre-K through 5. Located at 1266 Golden Gate Blvd. W., Naples. Call 239-4558088 or check http:// public.collier-lib.org for information.

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5:30 PM. Valentine’s Party at East Naples Library.

Make crafts, play games. Ages 3 years and older. Registration required. 8787 Tamiami Trail East, Naples. Call 239-7755592 or check http:// public.collier-lib.org for information.

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6:00 PM. Parents Night Out at Immokalee Community Park. We will provide dinner arts and crafts, sports and so much more.

Children Ages: 4-12 321 North 1st Street, Immokalee. Call 239657-4449 for information.

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Call for time.

Everglades City Seafood Festival.

Three days of live country music, carnival rides, arts, crafts and incredible food. Check www.evergladesseafoodfestival.org/ for information. Runs through Feb. 14.

11:00 AM. Free Bully Proof Kids Day at Impact Martial Arts. Kids will learn useful ways to deal with bullying through games and activities. 5926 Premier Way Unit 128, Naples. Call 239-5961622 or check www. impactnaples.com.20

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3:00 PM. Ave Maria Warmest Winter Ever. Live musical and dance performances, makeovers, a snow mountain, horse & carriage rides, frozen treats, s’mores and more.

Call 239-867-4322 for information.

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11:00 AM. Conservancy Boat and Brunch Tour.

Guided tour takes you along the Gordon River for brunch. After your meal, cruise back to the Conservancy Nature Center and explore. Call 239262-0304 ext. 319 for information.

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8:00 AM. World Wetlands Day. Guided walks, demonstrations and displays of wildlife behaviors, kids activities. Check http://corkscrew.audubon.org for additional information. Located at 375 Sanctuary Road W., Naples.

4:30 PM. Garden Bros Circus at Germain Arena. Located at 11000 Everblades Pkwy, Estero. Call 239335-0457 or check www.germainarena. com for ticket information. Also held at 7:30 pm.

6:00 PM. Mercato Nights Music Series. Free concert on the lawn. Please no coolers or outside food.

Lawn chairs, blankets and well-behaved pets welcome. 9128 Strada Place, Naples. Call 239-594-9400 or check www.mercatoshops.com.

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2:00 PM. Make and Take Craft at Artis-Naples. Kids and adults learn about a featured museum exhibition and then create their artwork inspired by the exhibition. Located at 5833 Pelican Bay Boulevard, Naples.

Call (239) 597-1111 for information.

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4:30 PM. Black History Outside the Book at Golden Gate Library. Come celebrate Black History Month with our students as they perform music, present a play and share their artwork. Located at 2432 Lucerne Road, Naples. Call 239-252-4542.

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11:00 AM. Fabulous Florida Strawberry Month at South Regional Library. Enjoy strawberry recipes. 8065 Lely Cultural Parkway, Naples. Call 239-2527542 or check http:// public.collier-lib.org for additional information.

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9:00 AM. Village School Book Fair at Barnes and Noble. Join us all day for a book fair to support Village School.

Located at 5377 Tamiami Trail North, Naples. Call 239-5972040 for additional information.

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6:00 PM. Free Admission to The Baker Museum.

A local band offers musical entertainment.

Located at 5833 Pelican Bay Blvd, Naples.

Call 239-597-1900 or check www.thephil. org for additional information.

6:30 PM. Evenings at the Conservancy - Landscaping with Florida-friendly Plants. Seating is space-available. Members: Free; General admission: $10. To make a reservation, call 239.403.4207 or email SophiaN@ conservancy.org. 23

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5:00 PM. MiniMoo Petting Zoo at Naples Regional Library. Join us on the lawn to interact with the live animals.

Registration required.

650 Central Avenue, Naples. Call 239-2626853 or check http:// public.collier-lib.org for information.

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19 4:00 PM. Bonita Brew Fest. General Tickets are $40 (after Dec. 31, price will be $45) and include 2 oz. taste samples.

Riverside Park, Old US 41 Road, Bonita Springs. www.bonitaspringsrecreation. org/riverside.html for information.

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YOUR COMMUNITY FEBRUARY 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 info.

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

1 MONDAY 9:15 AM. Yoga Class Series at South Regional Library. Six class series. Please bring a yoga mat, large towel or blanket and wear loose comfortable clothes. Located at 8065 Lely Cultural Parkway, Naples. Call 239-252-7542 or check http://public. collier-lib.org for additional information.

9:30 AM. Walking Meditation in the Naples Botanical Garden. Walking meditation is an insightful practice of awareness, concentration, and self-inquiry. To register call 239-643-7275 or email agrace@naplesgarden.org. Held weekly on Monday.

10:00 AM. Beachcombing and Shelling Talk.

What do wrack lines, jellies, blue buttons, beach hoppers, ghosts, sea pork, and beans have in com-

mon? Come find out at this lecture on Beachcombing & Shelling. Located at 505 Barefoot Beach Blvd., Bonita Springs. Check www.friendsofbarefootbeach. org or call 239-252-4000 for additional information.

Held weekly on Monday.

10:30 AM. Pilates Class Series at South Regional Library. Six class series. Please bring a yoga mat, large towel or blanket and wear loose comfortable clothes. Located at 8065 Lely Cultural Parkway, Naples. Call 239-252-7542 or check http://public. collier-lib.org for additional information.

11:00 AM. Fabulous Florida Strawberry Month at South Regional Library. Enjoy delicious strawberry recipes. Located at 8065 Lely Cultural Parkway, Naples. Call 239-252-7542 or check http://public. collier-lib.org for additional information.

11:45 AM. Beginning Yoga Series at South Regional Library. Six class series. Please bring a yoga mat, large towel or blanket and wear loose comfortable clothes. Located at 8065 Lely Cultural Parkway, Naples. Call 239-252-7542 or check http://public. collier-lib.org for additional information.

1:00 PM. Tai Chi II Class Series at South Regional Library. Six class series. Please bring a yoga mat, large towel or blanket and wear loose comfortable clothes.

Located at 8065 Lely Cultural Parkway, Naples. Call 239-252-7542 or check http://public.collier-lib.org for additional information.

2:15 PM. Tai Chi I Class Series at South Regional Library. This is a simple and safe moving meditation.

Please wear soft soled shoes and loose fitting clothes.

Located at 8065 Lely Cultural Parkway, Naples. Call

239-252-7542 or check http://public.collier-lib.org for additional information.

5:00 PM. Core Fitness at South Regional Library.

30 minutes of action packed exercises, 15 minutes of yoga and 5 minutes of cool down. Expert coaching and motivating music will guide you through functional exercises using your body and hand weights.

Please bring a yoga mat and hand weight to class.

Six Class Session. Located at 8065 Lely Cultural Parkway, Naples. Call 239-252-7542 or check http:// public.collier-lib.org for additional information.

6:00 PM. Zumba Class Series at South Regional Library. Zumba exercise classes are “fitness-parties” that blend upbeat world rhythms with easy-to-follow choreography for a total-body workout that feels like a celebration. Located at 8065 Lely Cultural Parkway, Naples. Call 239-252-7542 or check http:// public.collier-lib.org for additional information.

2 TUESDAY 9:00 AM. Meditation Class Series at South Regional Library. Learn how to experience deep relaxation and stress-free living. During these sessions you will learn how meditation can calm your mind and bring peace into your life. Located at 8065 Lely Cultural Parkway, Naples. Call 239-252-7542 or check http://public.collier-lib.org for additional information.

10:00 AM. If Trees Could Talk...Oh Wait, They Do! Unlock the secrets of trees at the Naples Preserve.

Free lecture. Located at 1690 Tamiami Trail North,

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NEAPOLITANfamily • February 2016

Naples. Call (239) 261-4290 for information.

10:00 AM. Family Storytime at South County Regional Library. Five simple practices get kids ready to read: Talking, Singing, Reading, Writing and Playing. Your whole family is invited to this enjoyable, all-ages storytime that encourages the development of pre-reading skills through songs, rhymes, finger plays and stories. Registration is required. Located at 21100 Three Oaks Pkwy, Estero.

Call 239-479-4636 for additional information. Held weekly on Tuesday.

10:00 AM. Family Yoga in The Garden. Come enjoy yoga in the Garden with your little one aged 2-5! With an emphasis on interactive and partner poses for kids and adults to do together, you’ll do age-appropriate yoga poses, breathing, movement games, and relaxation. No yoga experience required - for adult or child! Garden admission plus $10 for adults, Garden admission alone for children.

(Bring your own mats or towels!) Held at Naples Botanical Gardens, 4820 Bayshore Drive, Naples.

Call 239-643-7275 or check www.naplesgarden.org for additional information. Held weekly on Tuesday.

10:00 AM. Moms and Tots Storytime with Miss Jessica and Miss Mary Ellen. A toddler favorite, the girls read, sing, dance and color, creating a fun atmosphere of learning and lots of laughter. Come and ask about the little green frog song. All ages are welcome! Held at Barnes & Noble, 5377 Tamiami Trail North, Naples. Call 239-597-2040 for additional information. Held weekly on Tuesday.

10:30 AM. Drop-In Knitting Workshop at Estates Branch Library. Want to learn new knitting stitches or need help with a knitting project already started?

Want to share your knitting talent and ideas? This is the class to attend! Bring your own knitting sup-

plies. Registration is not required. Located at 1266 Golden Gate Blvd. W., Naples. Call 239-455-8088 or check http://public.collier-lib.org for information.

11:00 AM. TED Talk Tuesdays at South Regional Library. Prepare to be excited and engaged as we view a TED talk, followed by discussion. Materials will be made available for those who would like to check-out items related to the subject. Coffee and a refreshment will be served. Program attendance is limited. Located at 8065 Lely Cultural Parkway, Naples. Call 239-252-7542 or check http://public. collier-lib.org for additional information.

4:30 PM. Black History Outside the Book at Golden Gate Library. Come celebrate Black History Month with our students as they perform music, present a play and share their artwork. There will be refreshments afterward in the craft room. All ages. Registration is not required. Located at 2432 Lucerne Road, Naples. Call 239-252-4542 or check http://public.collier-lib.org for information.

6:30 PM. Winter Concert Series at South Regional Library. Brlycream performs classic rock, Motown, disco and a little dab of DooWop. Located at 8065 Lely Cultural Parkway, Naples. Call 239252-7542 or check http://public.collier-lib.org for additional information.

3 WEDNESDAY 9:00 AM. Whole Foods Farmer’s Market. Held every Wednesday on the front patio. Located at 9101 Strada Place, Naples. Call 239-552-5100 for additional information.

9:30 AM. Historical Walking Tours. Come enjoy this very popular 2 to 2.5 hour walking tour through parts of the Naples Historic District including alleys

and the Naples Pier. Enjoy colorful anecdotes about the people and places of Old Naples. Factual stories gleaned from our oral history project dot this walking tour. Call 239-261-8164 for additional information.

Held weekly on Wednesday.

10:00 AM. Free Kids Crafts at Miromar Outlets.

Kids from toddlers to twelve are invited to participate in fun activities. Located at 10801 Corkscrew Rd, Estero. Call 239-948-3766 or check www.miromaroutlets.com for additional information. Held weekly on Wednesday.

10:00 AM. Preschool Storytime at South County Regional Library. Children attend this program independently while the caregiver waits nearby.

Children who start kindergarten with pre-reading skills have an advantage. They are ready to learn to read. Your preschooler will continue to build relationships with other kids, books, and the library in a storytime designed specifically for them. The stories and activities are more complex, but just as fun! Registration is required. Located at 21100 Three Oaks Pkwy, Estero. Call 239-479-4636 for additional 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.

12:00 PM. Lunch and Learn Lecture at Wonder Gardens. Bring your own lunch. Seating is on a first come, first served basis for the 42 seats on the Picnic Grove benches. Lectures are free with regular admission. Weather permitting. Purchase a Wonder Gardens membership to enjoy free unlimited admission. Lectures are held on the first Wednesday of the month. Located at 27180 Old 41 Road, Bonita

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Springs. Call 239-992-2591 or check www.evergladeswondergardens.com for information.

2:00 PM. Knitting for Beginners at Marco Island Library. In this class, enjoy learning the basics of knitting. Yarn and needles will be available. Class size is limited. Registration required. Open to ages 12 to adult. Located at 210 S. Heathwood Drive, Marco Island. Call 239-394-3272 or check http://public. collier-lib.org for additional information.

2:00 PM. Make and Take Craft at Artis-Naples.

Make-and-Take workshops present opportunities for kids and adults alike to learn about a featured museum exhibition and then create their own artwork inspired by the exhibition. Located at 5833 Pelican Bay Boulevard, Naples. Call (239) 597-1111 or check http://artisnaples.org for information.

3:30 PM. Build a Terrarium at South Regional Library. Join Naples Botanical Garden staff in creating a terrarium to take home! We will learn about the building blocks of nature as we create a closed ecosystem in a mason jar. Open to grades 2 through 5. Registration required. Located at 8065 Lely Cultural Parkway, Naples. Call 239-252-7542 or check http://public.collier-lib.org for information.

5:00 PM. Montessori Academy of Naples Open House. For more information go to www.naplesmontessori.org or call 239-597-2255. Located at 2659 Professional Circle, Naples.

6:00 PM. Cultural Carnivale. The event takes place at the Marco Island Historical Museum in the Rose History Auditorium at 180 S. Heathwood Drive on Marco Island and showcases the broad array of cultural activities and amenities in the local area.

The event is free of charge. Call 239-642-1440 for additional information.

8:00 PM. The 39 Steps. This fast-paced farce delivers nonstop laughs and over 150 zany characters, all performed by just 4 actors. A guaranteed tour-de-force that is not to be missed. - See more at: http://www.fifthavenuesouth.com/the-naplesplayers-presents-the-39-steps/#sthash.Jolqjheu.dpuf.

Runs through February 27.

4 THURSDAY 10:00 AM. Tai Chi in the Garden. Instructor Karen McNeil hosts this energy-flow exercise in the South Grove of the Garden. Held at Naples Botanical Gardens, 4820 Bayshore Drive, Naples. Call 239-643-7275 or check www.naplesgarden.org for additional information. Held weekly on Thursday.

2:00 PM. Mystery and True Crime Book Club at Headquarters Library. Share your favorite true crime and whodunnit books. Located at 2385 Orange Blossom Drive, Naples. Call 239-593-0870 or check http://public.collier-lib.org for information.

6:00 PM. Mercato Nights Music Series. Free concert on the lawn across from Silverspot Cinema.

Please no coolers or outside food. Outdoor bar serving wine and beer and food also available at the concert. Lawn chairs, blankets and well-behaved pets welcome. Bands range from indie rock to rockabilly to award-winning Blues. Located at 9128 Strada Place, Naples. Call 239-594-9400 or check www. mercatoshops.com for additional information. Held weekly on Thursday.

4:00 PM. LEGO Club at Marco Island Library.

Join this new club and 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 210 S. Heathwood Drive,

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

6:00 PM. Mercato Nights Music Series. Free concert on the lawn across from Silverspot Cinema.

Please no coolers or outside food. Outdoor bar serving wine and beer and food also available at the concert. 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.

7:00 PM. Acoustically Speaking. The music of Richard Perron and his band “Acoustically Speaking”, with Dan Lachance on Sax, Bill Bussing on bass, Diago on percussion, and Richard on acoustic guitar, and vocals, is thought provoking, and inspiring. Held at Norris Community Center, 755 8th Ave South, Naples. Call 239-213-3058 for information.

7:00 PM. Author Signing at Barnes and Noble.

Join us as we welcome Ann Packer who will be discussing and signing her latest novel, The Children’s Crusade. This masterful novel explores the secrets and desires, the remnant wounds and saving graces of one California family, over the course of five decades.

Located at 5377 Tamiami Trail North, Naples. Call 239-597-2040 for additional information.

5 FRIDAY 10:00 AM. Free Beachcombing and Shelling Talk. What do wrack lines, jellies, blue buttons, beach hoppers, ghosts, sea pork, and beans have in common? Meet at the Learning Center at Barefoot Beach Preserve. There is an entrance fee into the park for those who do not have a current Collier County park permit. Located at 505 Barefoot Beach Blvd., Bonita Springs. Call 239-252-4000 for additional

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EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATION SYMPOSIUM

information. Held weekly on Friday.

10:00 AM. Baby-Parent Rhyme Time at South Country Regional Library.

Registration required. Located at 21100 Three Oaks Pkwy, Estero. Call 239-4794636 for information. Held weekly on Friday.

10:00 AM. Nature Walk on Wheels for Special Needs. Created for visitors with special needs. This is an escorted golf cart tour through the world of Barefoot Beach Preserve. Reservations required. Free event. Call 239- 252-4000 or check www.friendsofbarefootbeach.org for additional information. Held weekly on Friday with reservation.

4:30 PM. Garden Bros Circus at Germain Arena. Motorcycle daredevils somersaulting and spinning in a big Globe of Doom; Chinese Acrobats, a Human Slingshot, Racing Camels, crazy comedy with Circus Clowns, daring aerialists; cirque artists. Its 1½ hours of excitement and fun. Located at 11000 Everblades Pkwy, Estero. Call 239-335-0457 or check www.germainarena.com for ticket information. Also held at 7:30 pm.

6:00 PM. Barbara Bush Celebration of Reading. $250 for a single ticket.

The annual event features guest appearances from New York Times best-selling authors who read from their works during the event and sign books after the celebration dinner. Dana Perino is the first confirmed author in the lineup for the always-entertaining reading event. VIP tickets are available. https://barbarabushfoundation.thankyou4caring.org/FLCOR. Held at Hyatt Regency Coconut Point Resort & Spa, 5001 Coconut Road, Estero.

6:00 PM. Max Hasse Community Park 5th Grade Dance. Dance the night away at our school dances. Tickets go on sale 2 weeks in advance. $10. Located at 3390 Golden Gate Pkwy, Naples. Call 239-348-7500 or check http://colliergov. net for additional information 7:00 PM. Friday Night Concert Series. Highlighting the music of local bands at Miromar Outlets, 1801 Corkscrew Rd., Estero. Call 239-948-3766 or check www.miromaroutlets.com for additional information. Held weekly on Friday.

Identifying & Addressing Learning Difficulties

Key Note Speaker: Dr. Annie de Acevedo Author of 7 Best Seller Books

With an estimated 30 percent of children being classified as needing extra help, learn how to identify learning difficulties and how to provide support for them. In this workshop you will learn: What are and are not learning difficulties, increase understanding and awareness of different types of learning difficulties and learn techniques for supporting children with learning difficulties. Dr. Acevedo is internationally recognized for her work and personally mentors therapists, teachers, treats children, provides consultations, and conducts seminars throughout the United States and internationally.

Saturday, April 2, 2016

1p.m - 5p.m / Cost $60 /0.4 CEUs Hodges University, 2647 Professional Circle, Naples, FL

www.collierchildcare.org Information: 239-643-3908

6 SATURDAY 7:00 AM. Fairgrounds Flea Market and Farmers Market. For space or additional info call: 239- 455-1444. Held weekly on Saturday and Sunday.

7:30 AM. Third Street South Farmer’s Market. Fresh produce, flowers and food items in the parking lot behind Tommy Bahama’s on Third Street South in Naples. Call 239-434-6533 for additional information. Held weekly on Saturday.

8:00 AM. Farmer’s Market at Collection at Vanderbilt. Fresh produce, flowers and food items at the corner of Vanderbilt and Airport Roads in Naples. Call 239-273-2350 for additional information. Held weekly on Saturday.

8:00 AM. Community Yard Sale at Immokalee Community Park. This program is designed to let the general population buy or sell yard sale items. You are responsible for supplying your own table(s). Located at 321 North 1st Street, Immokalee. Call 239-657-4449 for additional information.

8:00 AM. World Wetlands Day. Visitors will enjoy immersion into Corkscrew’s forest, marshes, uplands & wetlands with a schedule of guided walks, special interest explorations of birds and plants, demonstrations and displays of wildlife behaviors, kids activities from scavenger hunts to crafts and live music.

Check http://corkscrew.audubon.org for additional information. Located at 375 Sanctuary Road W., Naples.

9:00 AM. Free Zoo Admission. 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. Call 239- 262-5409 or check www. napleszoo.com 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 4701 Golden Gate Pkwy., Naples. Call 239-252-4180 or check colliergov.net for additional information. Held weekly on Saturday.

9:00 AM. Immokalee Child Care Center Bookfair at Barnes and Noble. Join us all day for a bookfair to support Immokalee Child Care Center. Located at 5377 Tamiami Trail North, Naples. Call 239-597-2040 for additional information.

9:30 AM. W.O.N.D.E.R. Kids at Botanical Gardens. Drop in anytime between 9:30 a.m. - 2 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday to the Smith Children’s Garden for fun activities. Located at 4820 Bayshore Drive, Naples. Call 239-643-7275 or check www.naplesgarden.org for additional information. Held weekly on Saturday.

10:00 AM. KIDding Around Bell Tower Shops. Join us for a variety of free activities and sponsors that change each month, including bounce house fun. Held at Bell Tower Shops, Daniels Pkwy and US 41, Ft. Myers. Call 239-489-1221

NEAPOLITANfamily • February 2016

Dance Arts by Maria

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Offering classes for ages 2-18 in

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or check www.thebelltowershops.com for additional information.

10:00 AM. Art in the Park. The Naples Art Association is proud to host this juried art show held on the first Saturday of each month from November through April, 10am-4pm. Art in the Park is held in conjunction with “First Saturday” an event directed toward children and families. Children of all ages will have the opportunity to experience working in many mediums, expanding their creativity. Located at 585 Park St., Naples. Call 239-262-6517 x 100 for information.

10:00 AM. Free Lecture Series at Barefoot Beach Preserve Learning Center. Each Saturday brings someone new for a multitude of topics from native plants or animals to photography or history. Collier Beach pass required or entrance fee. www.friendsofbarefootbeach.org. Located at 505 Barefoot Beach Blvd. Naples. Call 239-252-4000 for additional information. Held weekly on Saturday.

10:00 AM. Free Kids Fishing at Bass Pro Shops.

Held on the first Saturday of each month from 10am until 1pm. All equipment provided. Located at 10040 Gulf Center Drive, Ft. Myers. Call 239461-7800 for additional information.

10:00 AM. Edison Ford Antique Car Show. Over 170 antique cars will be on exhibit from local Car Clubs and other classic car owners who will showcase their cars on the Ford lawn, in a fitting tribute to the legacy of Henry Ford, pioneer of the automobile industry and a winter resident of Fort Myers. Located at 2350 McGregor Boulevard, Fort Myers. Call 239334-7419 or check www.edisonfordwinterestates.org for additional information.

10:30 AM. Mommy and Me Valentine’s Tea at

Veterans Community Park. Enjoy Valentine activities and refreshments with Mom or Grandma at the park. Must pre-register by Feb 5th. Located at 1895 Veterans Park Drive, Naples. Call 239-566-2367 or check http://colliergov.net for information.

10:30 AM. Science Saturday. Children ages 3-18 can engage in exciting science experiments and activities. Free and open to the public. Seacrest Country Day School, 7100 Davis Blvd., Naples. Call 239-793-1986 for information.

11:00 AM. Barnes & Noble Storytime. Storytime and related activity. Located at 5377 Tamiami Trail North, Naples. Call 239-597-2040 or check http:// bn.com for additional information. Held weekly on Saturday with a different theme weekly.

2:30 PM. Fun Fairy Tales at Headquarters Library. 1 Bag Productions (formerly ACTeen Troupe) returns with another wonderful play and improvisational comedy scenes for your enjoyment. Open to ages 2 years and older. Registration required in person or by phone. Located at 2385 Orange Blossom Drive, Naples. Call 239-593-0870 or check http://public.collier-lib.org for additional information.

3:00 PM. Youth Improv. These very funny improv professionals were trained through CFABS youth theater and improv classes. Bring the entire family out to enjoy great comedy as willing audience volunteers join our troupe for guaranteed laughs. Snacks and beverages available. For further information call 239-495-8989 or visit www.artcenterbonita.org 4:00 PM. Dr. Ruth Westheimer to speak at The Choice Affair for Planned Parenthood. Funny and frank sex therapist Dr. Ruth Westheimer will be the speaker at Planned Parenthood of Southwest

and Central Florida’s 12th annual gala, The Choice Affair, scheduled for Saturday, Feb. 6, at the Naples Grande Beach Resort, 475 Seagate Drive. Tickets for the event featuring the radio and television personality with the distinctive accent – and sensible answers to personal questions – start at $350. For an invitation to The Choice Affair, call 941-365-3913, ext.

1167, or email events@myplannedparenthood.org.

6:00 PM. Naples YMCA Sneaker Ball. Join the YMCA as they rock around the clock for the 11th Annual YMCA Sneaker Ball! They’ve mixed things up this year and added a Sock Hop theme, so bring out those poodle skirts, saddle shoes, rolled up jeans, T-Bird jackets and of course, sneakers! Live Auction, Silent Auction, Valet Parking, Live Entertainment.

All proceeds from the 2016 Sock Hop Sneaker Ball will provide necessary funding to support the upcoming Gaynor Early Leaning Center at the Naples YMCA! You can make a difference by becoming a sponsor or donating a silent auction item. For more information contact Nannette Staropoli at nannette@markit-group.com or call 239.250.1030.

7 SUNDAY 7:00 AM. Fairgrounds Flea Market and Farmers Market. For space or additional info call: (239) 4551444. Located at Collier County fairgrounds, 751 39th Avenue NE, Naples. Held weekly on Sunday.

8:00 AM. Koreshan Farmer’s Market. Come and get your fresh produce, seafood, baked goods and other food items while walking the paths of the historic settlement. Located at 3800 Corkscrew Road, Estero. Check www.floridastateparks.org for additional information. Held weekly on Sunday.

10:00 AM. Fort Myers Art Fest. At ArtFest, you’ll

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musicwalk.com for additional information.

11:00 AM. Boat and Brunch Tour. Boat leaves the Conservancy of Southwest Florida Nature Center. Your guided tour takes you along the Gordon River for brunch at Gordon’s on the River, located within Naples Harbor. After your meal, cruise back to the Conservancy Nature Center and explore. (Price of brunch not included in Conservancy admission.) Reservations Required. Space is limited. Call 239-262-0304 ext. 319 for additional information. Held weekly.

11:00 AM. Jazz and Blues Festival at Mercato. Free, bring a chair or blanket to sit on. Come to the Lawn and enjoy some jazz and blues from these bands: Florida SouthWestern State College Jazz Ensemble, Steve Uscher’s Tropical Jazz Group featuring Winnie Purple, Dan Heck Trio, Dan Miller Quintet and Mudbone. Located at 9128 Strada Place, Naples. Call 239-594-9400 or check www.mercatoshops.com 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. For more information, call 239213-3058. Located at 755 Eighth Avenue South, Naples. Held weekly on Sunday.

2:00 PM. Palmgrass Presents Bluegrass at Alliance for the Arts. Palmgrass presents three hours of live bluegrass in the theatre at the Alliance for the Arts on Sunday, February 7 beginning at 2PM. The concert features John Stey & Company, Captain Joe & the Bottom Feeders, and Swinging Bridge. Tickets are $8 at the door, or $6 for Alliance members. Seating is open and first come, first serve. Children 12 and under are free if accompanied by an adult. Pre-sale tickets are not available. Doors open at 1:30PM. The Sunday afternoon concert series continues monthly throughout the 2015-16 Season. Visit ArtInLee.org or call 239-939-2787 for more information. To learn more visit www.Palmgrass.org.

3:00 PM. Meet the Composers Classical Music Series. Join international artist and lecturer, Dr. Anne McLean the first Sunday of each month as she performs in a multi-media presentation highlighting a great composer’s music, fascinating historical insights and visual images of that unique era. Held at Center for Performing Arts – Hinman Auditorium, 10150 Bonita Beach Rd., Bonita Springs.

Call 239- 495-8989 for additional information.

3:00 PM. Naples Philharmonic Youth Orchestra Winter Concert. The Naples Philharmonic Youth Orchestra performs a variety of classical works.

Free. Located at 5833 Pelican Bay Boulevard, Naples. Call 239-597-1111 for additional information.

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8 MONDAY 5:30 PM. Valentine’s Party at East Naples Library. Join us for a hearty party.

Make some valentine’s crafts, play some games, and have lots of fun. Ages 3 years and older. Registration required. Located at 8787 Tamiami Trail East, Naples. Call 239-775-5592 or check http://public.collier-lib.org for additional information.

9 TUESDAY 4:00 PM. The Incredible Shrinking Valentine at Estates Library. Drop in between 4-5 p.m., make a valentine and then watch it shrink. (while supplies last) Open to grades pre-K through 5. 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.

5:00 PM. Youth Auditions Fiddler on the Roof at CFABS. Ages 10 and up are welcome to audition for CFABS Youth Theater production. Auditions will include singing, dancing and acting. Call 239-495-8989 or check www.artcenterbonita. org for additional information.

5:30 PM. For the Love of Dogs and Chocolate. Fall in love this Valentine’s week at the “For The Love of Dogs & Chocolate” fund-raising event that benefits the Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs. Featured will be a wonderful selection of chocolates, wine and love from some incredible dogs. There will be great gift ideas, an incredible silent auction & much more. Held at von Liebig Art Center, 585 Park Street, Naples. Call 239-262-6517 for additional information.

6:15 PM. Celebrate the Chinese New Year at South County Library. Learn about Chinese customs, enjoy a dragon dance, crafts and food. Learn about tai chi from a Chinese Master. This is a family event to share and enjoy. Located at 21100 Three Oaks Pkwy, Estero. Call 239-479-4636 for additional information.

6:30 PM. Evenings at the Conservancy - Predators of the Sky. Presentations are held in Eaton Conservation Hall/Jeannie Meg Smith Theater. Seating is spaceavailable. To make a reservation, please contact Sophia Navarra at 239-403-4207 or email: SophiaN@conservancy.org. Visit www.conservancy.org/evenings for a

NEAPOLITANfamily • February 2016

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January Picks L C IN EE OUNTY

list of speakers.

6:30 PM. Mardi Gras Evening on Fifth. Enjoy live Music, shopping, dining, dancing on fabulous 5th Avenue South! - See more at: http://www.fifthavenuesouth.com/calendar-of-events/page/2/#sthash.IFwPbVNB.dpuf

10 WEDNESDAY 10:00 AM. Senior Expo. Exhibits offered from health care to personal care for seniors. Come join the exhibitors and learn the newest information from Health Care professionals, and all other types of professionals. Free to attend.

Businesses booking a spot, please contact the Golden Gate Community Center at 239-252-4180.

3:00 PM. Make Your Own Valentines at South Regional Library. Drop in and create some valentines for someone you love. We’ll have all the supplies you need. Open to ages 2-11 years. Registration is not required. Located at 8065 Lely Cultural Parkway, Naples. Call 239-252-7542 or check http://public.collier-lib. org for additional information.

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.

5:00 PM. Montessori Academy of Naples Open House. For more information go to www.naplesmontessori.org or call 239-597-2255.

11 THURSDAY

The Sound of Music

Barbara B Mann Performing Arts Hall 13350 FSW Pkwy, Fort Myers January 12 - 17

This beloved Rodgers & Hammerstein musical will thrill audiences with the romantic musical story of Maria and the Von Trapp Family. 239-481-4849

The Lunchbox Theatre: Red Badge of Courage Florida Repertory Theatre, 2267 1st Street, Fort Myers Friday, January 15 • 11 a.m.

Your $12 admission includes: The performance, discussion with the actors, interactive workshop and lunch.

239-332-4488

Riverdale Kiwanis Medieval Faire

Lakes Park, 7330 Gladiolus Dr, Fort Myers January 16 - 17 & January 23 - 24 • 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Featuring jousting, live chess match, live sword fighting, royal court, children’s games and rides, jugglers, magicians, minstrels, period food and medieval themed merchants.

239-369-6881

Peppa Pig's Big Splash

Germain Arena, 11000 Everblades Pkwy, Estero Thursday, January 21 • 6 p.m. www.germainarena.com 800-745-3000

Free SW Florida Twins Youth Clinics Minnesota Twins / Lee County Sports Complex 14110 Six Mile Cypress, Fort Myers January & February

All elementary and middle school aged boys and girls are welcome.

Stations will be set up to practice hitting, fielding, pitching and more!

239-823-6450

LEE COUNTY’S ORIGINAL FAMILY PUBLICATION FOR 25 YEARS!!

www.leefamilynews.net 32

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2:00 PM. Read and Share Book Club at Headquarters Library. Bring a book, tell us about it and make new friends. You can also bring books to swap with others. Located at 2385 Orange Blossom Drive, Naples. Call 239-593-0870 for additional information.

3:30 PM. Build a Terrarium at Marco Island Library. Join Naples Botanical Garden staff in creating a terrarium to take home! We will learn about the building blocks of nature as we create a closed ecosystem in a mason jar. Grades 2 through 5. Registration required. Located at 210 S. Heathwood Drive, Marco Island. Call 239-394-3272 or check http://public.collier-lib.org for additional information.

3:30 PM. Valentine Workshop at Golden Gate Branch Library. Join us for Valentine fun. We will make a variety of crafts and enjoy some refreshments.

Grades K through 5. Registration required. Located at 2432 Lucerne Road, Naples. Call 239-252-4542 or check http://public.collier-lib.org for additional information.

5:30 PM. Valentine’s Day Fun at Immokalee Branch Library. Make this holiday extra special by creating your very own handmade valentine cards. The library will provide all of the supplies. There may even be a piñata! All ages. Registration not required. Located at 417 North First Street, Immokalee. Call 239-657-2882 or check http://public.collier-lib.org for additional information.

5:30 PM. Valentine’s Party at Vanderbilt Beach Library. Join in on the games, crafts and treats at this “hearty party.” Ages 2-6 years. Registration required.

Located at 788 Vanderbilt Beach Road, Naples. Call 239-597-8444 or check http://public.collier-lib.org for additional information.

12 FRIDAY Call for time. Everglades City Seafood Festival. Hungry travelers can enjoy the annual 46th annual Seafood Festival held in Everglades City, featuring three days of live country music, carnival rides, arts, crafts and incredible food. Feast on fresh gulf shrimp, fish and stone crab claws, fried gator and lots more seafood. More than 100 vendors offer a variety of great seafood, refreshments, and handmade arts and crafts. The kids will love the rides on the midway. Time TBA. Check http://www. evergladesseafoodfestival.org/ for additional information. Runs through Feb. 14.

10:00 AM. Valentine Storytime Fun at the South County Library. Stories, crafts and more for children ages 3-5. Located at 21100 Three Oaks Pkwy, Estero.

Call 239-479-4636 for additional information.

4:00 PM. Valentine Workshop at Naples Regional Library. Personalize a valentine for someone you love. All ages welcome. Registration is not required.

Located at 650 Central Avenue, Naples. Call 239-262-6853 or check http:// public.collier-lib.org for additional information.

NEAPOLITANfamily • February 2016

6:00 PM. 4th and 5th Grade Valentine Dance at East Naples Community Park. Pizza and soda served. Tickets sold 2 weeks prior to dance or at the door.

Contact 793-4414 for more information. Located at 3500 Thomasson Drive, Naples. Call 239-252-4414 or check http://colliergov.net for additional information.

7:00 PM. Daddy Daughter Valentine Dance at Vineyards Community Park.

‘My heart belongs to Daddy!,’ so they say. Treat your special girl to a semi-formal evening out with Daddy. There will be a DJ, snacks and lots of dancing! Located at 6231 Arbor Rd, Naples. Call 239-363-9669 or check http://colliergov.net for additional information.

7:30 PM. Friday Night Out at River Park. Enjoy playing on the playground, games, crafts, snacks and a movie. School age 5-12. $15. Located at 301 11th Street North, Naples. Call 239-213-3037 for additional information.

WHERE SOMETHING IS ALWAYS HAPPENING

13 SATURDAY 9:00 AM. Sea Gate Elementary Book Fair at Barnes and Noble. Join us all day for a book fair to support Sea Gate Elementary School. Located at 5377 Tamiami Trail North, Naples. Call 239-597-2040 or check http://bn.com for additional information.

10:00 AM. Cars on Fifth. Presented by The Naples Chapter of the Ferrari Club of America. Check for www.carsonfifth.com/ additional information.

10:00 AM. Crafter’s Choice Valentine Workshop at Headquarters Library.

Stop by and make a variety of valentines. All ages. Registration is not required.

Located at 2385 Orange Blossom Drive, Naples. Call 239-593-0870 or check http://public.collier-lib.org for additional information.

10:00 AM. Sanibel Island Arts and Crafts Fair. There is a suggested donation of $5 for entry into the Art Show. Free parking is available across the street from the fair. Held at 2173 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel. Call 239-472-2155 for additional information. Also held on Sunday, Feb. 14.

10:00 AM. STEMtastic Day of Discovery. STEMtastic Day of Discovery allows families the opportunity to participate in high profile indoor and outdoor, interactive area which features science, technology, engineering and math related exhibits, games and presentations by a number of regional and national organizations. The event also highlights the artistic talents of many local area children through musical, acrobatic and theatrical performances on the community stage.

Held at Harborside Event Center, 1375 Monroe Street, Fort Myers. Call 239321-8110 for additional information.

11:00 AM. India Fest. Come and enjoy this outdoor event to be exposed to all things Indian, including food, dance, music, handicrafts and clothing from the various regions within India. There will be various forms of live entertainment on the outdoor stage throughout the day, including modern and classical dances, fashion shows and a variety of musical performances and plays. Held at Hammond Stadium, 14400 Six Mile Cypress Parkway, Fort Myers.

2:00 PM. Free Dixieland Jazz Concert at River Park. Located at 301 11th Street North, Naples. Call 239-213-3037 for additional information.

3:00 PM. Ave Maria Warmest Winter Ever. Come and spend the evening at Ave Maria’s Town Center for free a movie on the lawn begins at 6pm and a meet and greet with the Snow Princess and Ice Queen from Frozen! Wear your favorite character costume and enjoy live musical and dance performances, royal makeovers, a snow mountain massive Inflatable, horse & carriage rides, frozen treats, s’mores and more. Call 239-867-4322 for additional information.

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. 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.

5:00 PM. Valentine’s Eve Concert at Riverside Park. Tickets are $15 in advance at crewtrust.org and $20 at the gate. Online $75 VIP Cafe tickets include dinner and drinks and private table seating. All concert proceeds will support CREW’s environmental education programs.

7:00 PM. Naples Philharmonic Youth Orchestra Chamber Concert. The Naples Philharmonic Youth Orchestra performs a variety of classical works in this debut performance from the NPYO Chamber Ensembles. Free. Located at 5833 Pelican Bay Boulevard, Naples Call 239-597-1111 for additional information.

14 SUNDAY 7:00 AM. Paradise Coast Marathon, Half and 5K. Check http://www.

NEAPOLITANfamily • February 2016

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10:00 AM. Valentine’s Day Vow Renewal at Lover’s Key. Couples will have the opportunity to choose either a 10:00am ceremony or a 3:00pm ceremony.

To register, please contact the Event Chair, Judy Greenwood by phone 708-3590466, or email fjgreenwood@gmail.com.

11:00 AM. Health & Safety Day / Open House. Activity packed event geared toward educating our young citizens about health and safety within our community. There will be fire trucks, EMT vehicles, police cars, and a few surprises.

Climb on the rock climbing wall, take a stroll through our garden and see what healthy vegetables we grow, enjoy lunch at our outside grill, and so much more.

The Preschool will be giving tours inside the classrooms for those considering giving their children the ‘TSP Experience’. This event is open to the public. Located at 4630 Pine Ridge Road, Naples. Call 239-455-3227 for additional information.

1:00 PM. Junior Fun Run and Parade. The Junior Fun Run is open to children in grades 5 and below. Grades 4 & 5 run a mile, 3rd graders run three-quarters of a mile, first and second graders run half a mile, kindergarten students run onequarter mile, and students under 5 years old run 50-75 yards. The Fort Myers Track Club helps to make this a fantastic active event for the children and many children run year after year. http://edisonfestival.org/events/event/junior-fun-run/ 5:00 PM. Parent Night Out. Drop your child(ren) off with us for a night full of fun! There will be games, crafts, dancing, and more! $20 or more donation per family. Money raised will go to helping a child be placed in a loving home through adoption by a local couple. To register, call the church office at 239-3549160 or email: office@cornerstonenaples.org. Registration deadline is Monday, February 8th. Space is limited.

15 MONDAY 10:00 AM. Twinkle Outreach Book Giveaway. All children are welcome to come to Twinkle Twinkle Little Store and receive 3 Free Books of their choice, provided by the Twinkle Outreach program. Books may be selected from a designated collection from Twinkle Outreach. Children must be present. Books are first come first served while supplies last. Located at 4172 Tamiami Trail North, Naples.

2:00 PM. Building with Strings and Straws at South County. Use everyday household items to build a take-home project while exploring three-dimensional geometry. Some skill with tying simple knots is needed. For grades 3-5. Located at 21100 Three Oaks Pkwy, Estero. Call 239-479-4636 for additional information.

16 TUESDAY 6:00 PM. Movies on the Lawn at Mercato. Movies start at dusk. Bring a blanket or chair for seating. Located at 9128 Strada Place, Naples. Call 239-594-9400 for additional information.

17 WEDNESDAY 6:00 PM. Wild Kratts Live! Animated Kratt Brothers, Martin and Chris, “come to real life” in a classically Wild Kratts story. Off “To the Creature Rescue!” the Kratt Brothers activate some fan favorite Creature Power Suits to confront a comic villain. Through hilarious pratfalls and amazing animal ‘wow facts’ the Wild Kratts team rescue their favorite invention from Zach’s clutches so the animals of the creature world are safe once again. Held at Germain Arena, 11000 Everblades Pkwy, Estero. Call 239-335-0457 or check www.germainarena.com for ticket information.

18 THURSDAY 5:30 PM. Pups and Books at East Napls Branch Library. Stop by to read to a dog or just to pet one. Dogs are provided by PAWS Assistance and Therapy Dogs. All ages. Registration is not required. Located at 8787 Tamiami Trail East, Naples. Call 239-775-5592 or check http://public.collier-lib.org for additional information.

6:00 PM. Saving Africa’s Leopards. Come discover the conservation successes benefiting these elegant and powerful cats. Mingle at the leopard habitat starting at 6. Presentation begins at 7 in Safari Canyon theater. Please dress for being outdoors. Free for Naples Zoo members. $10 for non-members. Proceeds go toward these efforts to save leopards. Please RSVP online. www.Napleszoo.org.

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NEAPOLITANfamily • February 2016

19 FRIDAY 5:00 PM. Moonshine and Music at Everglades Wonder Gardens. Everglades Wonder Gardens kicks off its 80th anniversary celebration weekend with a nod to the bootlegging history of founders Bill and Lester Piper, brothers who were quite open about their colorful history in Michigan. Enjoy musical entertainment, light refreshments, animal encounters, and other fun surprises. Tickets are $15 for Everglades Wonder Garden members and $25 for non-members. Purchase online at evergladeswondegardens.com or call 239-992-2591 by Feb. 17. Tickets will not be sold at the door.

6:00 PM. Parents Night Out at Immokalee Community Park. Parents Night Out will be a 3 hour program the 4th Friday of each month that will give couples an opportunity to enjoy the night out without children! We will provide dinner arts and crafts, sports and so much more. Children Ages: 4-12 Located at 321 North 1st Street, Immokalee. Call 239-657-4449 for additional information.

7:00 PM. Outdoor Family Movie Night at the Alliance for the Arts. Pack up your lawn chairs, coolers and blankets to enjoy this fun and endearing animated film under the stars with your family and friends! Located at 10091 McGregor Boulevard, Fort Myers. Call 239-939-2787 for additional information.

20 SATURDAY 6:00 AM. Everglades Ultra Races at Fakahatchee Strand. The fifth annual Everglades Ultras off-roadrunning race has been set for Saturday, February 20 in Fakahatchee Strand Preserve State Park. Registration is now open for the event’s three distinct races of 25 kilometers, 50 kilometers and 50 miles. Registration for the races is limited to 300. For complete entry or volunteer details visit www.evergladesultras. com or call Bob Becker at 954.439.2800.

8:00 AM. Community Yard Sale at Max Hasse Community Park. Find yard sale bargains with the convenience of having all the sales in one location.

If you are interested in reserving a spot to sell used items please call the respective park location to reserve a spot. Located at 3390 Golden Gate Pkwy, Naples.

Call 239-348-7500 or check http://colliergov.net for additional information.

9:00 AM. Family Fun Days at Everglades Wonder Gardens. Everglades Wonder Gardens celebrates its 80th anniversary weekend with fam-

ily fun days featuring activities for kids of all ages.

Enjoy animal encounters, visiting critters from Bird Gardens of Naples, face painting, anniversarythemed coloring sheets, period games popular in 1936 when the Wonder Gardens was founded, and a visit from the flamingo mascot. Located at 27180 Old 41 Road, Bonita Springs. Call 239-992-2591 or check www.evergladeswondergardens.com for additional information.

10:00 AM. Asia Fest. Featuring Asian cuisine and vendors, as well as a full line-up of Asian professional and local cultural performances featuring Philippine dancers, a Chinese lion dance show, martial arts demonstrations and taiko drum group. Lots of kids activities too! Net proceeds benefit the Naples Asian Professionals Association College Scholarship Fund at the Education Foundations. Held at Fleischmann Park, 1600 Fleischmann Drive, Naples. Call 239213-3020 for additional information.

10:00 AM. Coconut Point Art Festival. Fine art, music and more will occupy the streets for two funfilled days during this admission-free event. Stroll amidst life-size sculptures, spectacular paintings, one-of-a-kind jewels, photography, ceramics, and more. Located at 23106 Fashion Drive, Estero.

Check www.artfestival.com/festivals/coconut-pointart-festival-0 for additional information, 11:00 AM. Free Bully Proof Kids Day at Impact Martial Arts. Kids will learn useful ways to deal with bullying through games and activities. Meet Alex Timin, Amazon #1 Best-Selling author of BULLYPROOF: Unleash the Hero Inside Your Kid. Located at 5926 Premier Way Unit 128, Naples. Call 239-596-1622 or check www.impactnaples.com for additional information.

12:00 PM. Blues, Brew and BBQ. Come and enjoy an afternoon in Ave Maria with a free concert. There will also be a truck show featuring No Limits Offroad, awesome cars from Cool Cruisers Car Club, motorcycles from Naples Harley-Davidson, Balloon Buccaneers and a mechanical bull ride! Food and beverages will be available for purchase from The Pub & Grill, Tropical Smoothie Cafe Ave Maria, Gino’s Trattoria, Jonesez BBQ, and Smokin R’s BBQ. Ave Maria asks no outside food or coolers allowed. Held in Ave Maria Town Center, 5076 Annunciation Circle, Ave Maria. Call 239-867-4322 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. All ages. Registration is not required.

Located at 2385 Orange Blossom Drive, Naples. Call 239-593-0870 or check http://public.collier-lib.org

for additional information.

2:00 PM. Awards Party at Barnes and Noble.

Join us for movie trivia, party games, prizes and entertaining tips for hosting your own awards event.

Located at 5377 Tamiami Trail North, Naples. Call 239-597-2040 for additional information.

2:00 PM. Teen Book to Movie Club at South Regional Library. Teens are invited to join us at our new Movie Club featuring primarily book- to-movie adaptations! Bring your friends, chow down, and let us know if the movie lived up to the book. You don’t have to read the book to come, but the books are all available in the library. Located at 8065 Lely Cultural Parkway, Naples. Call 239-252-7542 or check http://public.collier-lib.org for information.

4:00 PM. LEGO Club at South Regional Library.

Join this new club and share ideas, be creative, make new friends and have fun! LEGO® bricks will be provided. Your LEGO® creations will be put on display at the library. Ages 5-11 years. Registration is not required. Located at 8065 Lely Cultural Parkway, Naples. Check http://public.collier-lib.org for additional information.

6:00 PM. Neighborhood Health Clinic Block Party. Dinner and dancing to benefit the Neighborhood Health Clinic. $350. For more information go to www.neighborhoodhealthclinic.org.

6:00 PM. Third Annual House of Style Fashion Show. Come join us for our House of Style Fashion Show and Shopping Event brought to you by St. Matthew’s House. General Admission is $35. The runway will be graced by the women of the Justin’s Place Recovery Program and their children. There will be hors d’oeuvres provided by St. Matthews House Catering, a live DJ and Silent Auction. VIP Guest Admission is $100 and includes a Gift Bag. For assistance contact Mila Koonce 239-774-3314 7:00 PM. Edison Festival of Light Grand Parade.

Named as the largest night parade in the Southeast year after year, the Grand Parade is a two-hour extravaganza featuring national participants & local marching bands, floats, local government and law enforcement officials, clowns and much more! Held at Centennial Park, 2000 West First Street, Ft. Myers.

23 MONDAY Call for time. Marjory Stoneman Douglas Festival. The Marjory Stoneman Douglas Festival is an annual five-day celebration of the Everglades and Marjory Stoneman Douglas’ legacy, encompassing daily activities, programs, workshops and presenta-

ABC Swim School Survival Swimming for Babies & Toddlers

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annual five-day celebration of the Everglades and Marjory Stoneman Douglas’ legacy, encompassing daily activities, programs, workshops and presentations bringing together specialists and professionals who share enthusiasm for the Glades. All activities are designed for the entire family. Runs February 23-27. For more information go to http://www. evergladesmuseum.org.

3:30 PM. Shark Alert at Golden Gate Library.

Join shark experts from Rookery Bay to learn about Florida’s predators of the deep. Grades 1 through 5. Registration required. Located at 2432 Lucerne Road, Naples. Call 239-252-4542 or check http:// public.collier-lib.org for additional information.

6:15 PM. Teen Book Discussion at South County Library. Discuss this thought provoking work about a pivotal week during the Civil Rights Movement in America. Please visit the children’s desk to register and receive your personal copy of “Night on Fire.”

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

6:30 PM. Evenings at the Conservancy - Landscaping with Florida-friendly Plants. Presentations are held in Eaton Conservation Hall/Jeannie Meg Smith Theater. Members: Free; General admission: $10. To make a reservation, please contact Sophia Navarra at 239.403.4207 or email her at SophiaN@ conservancy.org. Visit www.conservancy.org/evenings for a list of speakers.

24 TUESDAY 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 or check www.thephil. org for additional information.

25 WEDNESDAY Call for time. Lee County Fair. Join us in 2016 for the 92nd Southwest Florida & Lee County Fair. More information on the 2016 SWFL & Lee County Fair Events coming soon. http://swflcfair. com/events.php. Continues through Feb. 29.

5:00 PM. Mini-Moo Petting Zoo at Naples Regional Library. Join us on the lawn to interact with the live animals. All ages welcome. Registration required. Located at 650 Central Avenue, Naples.

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

27 SATURDAY 7:30 AM. Fossil Dig. Collect up to 1.2-million-year old specimens with Dr. Gary Schmelz at an exciting fossil site in Southwest Florida. Specimens include giant apple murex, cowries, miters, vase shells, fossil corals, crabs and more. During a lunch raffle, you may even win some fossils from Dr. Schmelz’s private collection. Lunch cost not included in program fee.

Registration required. Call (239) 262-0304, Ext. 266 for additional information.

7:30 AM. Walk for Wishes. The 6th Annual Walk For Wishes® 5K Walk/Run, to benefit Make-AWish® Southern Florida, will be held at the Florida Gulf Coast University Recreation Field located at 10501 FGCU Boulevard South in Fort Myers. Check

www.fgcu.edu for additional information.

8:00 AM. NAMI of Collier County Annual Walk . Forms and information available at http:// www.namicollier.org/nami-walk-2016-forms-andinformation. To form a team, sponsor the event, or for questions/concerns, please contact Jacquelyn at Jacquelyn@namicollier.org.

9:00 AM. Veterans Memorial Elementary Book Fair at Barnes and Noble. Join us all day for a book fair to support Veterans Memorial Elementary School. Located at 5377 Tamiami Trail North, Naples. Call 239-597-2040 for additional information.

10:00 AM. Burrowing Owl Festival. This is a fun day of entertaining and education programs, hands-on activities for children, guided nature walks, butterfly house tours and more. For additional information, call 239-549-4606. www.ccfriendsofwildlife. org/burrowing-owl-festival-2/ 4:00 PM. Bonita Brew Fest. In addition to sampling, attendees can purchase food and celebrate beer culture with activities and live music. General Admission tickets are $40 and include unlimited 2 oz. taste samples from all participating breweries and a pint glass. Held at Riverside Park, Old US 41 Road, Bonita Springs. Check www.bonitaspringsrecreation. org/riverside.html for additional information.

6:00 PM. Night at the Museum. Fund-raiser to benefit C’MON. For tickets go to www.cmon.org.

28 SUNDAY 9:00 AM. Village School Book Fair at Barnes and Noble. Join us all day for a book fair to support Village School. Located at 5377 Tamiami Trail North, Naples. Call 239-597-2040 for 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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Nicaea Early Learning Academy • 14785 Collier Blvd., Naples, FL 34119 • 239-353-9099 Nicaea Early Learning Academy • 2200 Santa Barbara Blvd., Naples, FL 34116 • 239-455-9090

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NEAPOLITANfamily • February 2016

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Temple Shalom Preschool

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Planting the Seeds in the Minds of our Future

the TSP experience

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Grow and learn academically, socially & spiritually welcoming all faiths FFF Curriculum includes: technology, science, music, art, movement, storytelling, STEM & foreign language FFF State-of-the-art Tech Lab, Science Lab & Storyland Library FFF Covered playground plus indoor gym

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4630 Pine Ridge Road NEAPOLITANfamily • February 2016

i Naples,

FL 34119 neafamily.com

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PRESCHOOL GUIDE The best preschools for Naples families!

If your child is 2 to 4 years old, you may be wondering how to choose a preschool. Not only will your child be learning the basics like the alphabet and numbers, preschool teaches important social skills like how to be independent, how to share and how to follow directions. Luckily we have a variety of options available in Naples so you’re sure to find the right choice for CEDR 1003 NeaFamily 1-4 pg Horiz.4_Layout 1 2/18/13 9:45 AM Page 1 your child and family!

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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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 • February 2016

2016 PRESCHOOL GUIDE CEDAR MONTESSORI Cedar Montessori School was founded in 1984, based on Maria Montessori’s philosophy and natural stages of child development to be a partnership and extension of your home. Cedar Montessori offers infants through Kindergarten age children a fun and nurturing environment to explore and grow individually and independently.

The spacious campus, located in a North Naples residential neighborhood, includes two large outdoor play yards, full and part-time sessions, before and after-care, an optional hot meal program, parent participation and veteran, highly qualified staff dedicated to your child’s early childhood experience.

10904 WINTERVIEW DR, NAPLES, FL 34109 (239) 597-7190 WWW.CEDAR MONTESSORI.ORG CHILDREN’S MONTESSORI Children’s Montessori School is an early childhood preschool program that incorporates the philosophy and principles of Dr. Maria Montessori. In the Montessori environment children learn by exploring and discovering concepts with “hands-on” manipulative equipment allowing the students to progress at their own pace. The Montessori Method develops the whole child, not just his intellectual faculties but also his powers of deliberation, initiative and independent choice. The school was founded in 1998 by owner and

director, Tracy Taylor and offers classes for children ages 18 months through Kindergarten with V.P.K. integrated into the Extended Primary program. The school hours are from 8:00a.m.–5:00p.m.

2535 NORTHBROOKE PLAZA DR, NAPLES, FL 34119 (239) 593-6668 WWW.CHILDMONT.COM

3000 ORANGE BLOSSOM DRIVE, NAPLES, FL 34109 PH. 239-597-2233 EXT. 566 WWW.FBALION.ORG LITTLE PEOPLE’S SCHOOL

CHILD’S PATH PRESCHOOL Child’s Path is a 5 day-a-week preschool program for children ages 2 to 5 years old. The services provided include kindergarten readiness and teaching age appropriate social skills, behavioral tools and prevention activities. Child’s Path also offers the Voluntary Pre-Kindergarten Program (VPK) for children over 4 years old who are scheduled to attend kindergarten in the upcoming school year. Child’s Path’s educational philosophy is to give each child a positive experience where they can build a healthy selfesteem by creating a fun, hands on approach to learning for the whole child that focuses on their social, emotional and physical well-being.

3144 SANTA BARBARA BLVD. NAPLES, FL 34116 (239) 353-4144 WWW.CHILDSPATH.ORG

Little People’s School was founded over 35 years ago by certified elementary teachers who were dedicated to the education of young children. The staff at LPS believes that children learn best when involved physically and intellectually in their learning environment.

Students enjoy a small child to teacher ratio which allows children to have the optimal opportunity to learn basic concepts in math and literacy through age appropriate, programs of art, science, literature, music, social studies, character development and of course, play.

Part, full time and VPK programs are available.

868 94TH AVENUE NORTH, NAPLES FLORIDA 34108 (239) 597-5064 LITTLEPEOPLESSCHOOL.INFO MONTESSORI ACADEMY OF NAPLES

FIRST BAPTIST ACADEMY First Baptist Academy is a Christian school offering Pre-K through twelfth grade. The Pre-K and Kin-

You may sign up for both Mondays and Wednesdays!

dergarten classes have a teacher and a teacher aide. Two playgrounds promote imaginative outdoor learning. An afterschool program is available.

Montessori Academy of Naples offers comprehensive Montessori programs for students ages 8-weeks to 15-years old. The time-proven Montessori method is evident in the carefully prepared,

reality-based environments that foster independence and self-discipline, and encourage young hands and minds to engage, experiment, and explore. The core of the seasoned and professional staff average over 15 years of Montessori classroom experience and all staff maintain their professional credentials. School snacks and lunches include farm-fresh fruits and vegetables courtesy of the school’s student-run organic produce coop. School hours are from 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. including early arrival and after school programs.

VPK and summer programs are also available.

2659 PROFESSIONAL CIRCLE NAPLES, FL 34119 (239) 597-2255 WWW.NAPLESMONTESSORI.ORG NAPLES PRESCHOOL ACADEMY Naples Preschool Academy offers a top notch facility where children learn, explore and excel while having fun in an extremely safe and secure environment. The Academy offers trained staff, ample room and state-of –the-art new indoor and outdoor playgrounds. The school is VPK certified and accepts School Readiness children.

1275 AIRPORT PULLING ROAD NAPLES, FL 34102 (239) 403-7977 WWW.NAPLESPRESCHOOL ACADEMY.COM

Covenant Church of Naples Mom’s Morning Out Providing a loving environment for children while offering mothers and fathers a needed break

Mondays and Wednesdays 9 a.m. – 1 p.m.

Ages 12 Months to 4 Years Covenant Church of Naples 6926 Trail Blvd., Naples, FL 34108

239.597.3464

Winter Sessions

Session 1 Monday, Jan. 11th-Feb. 15 (missing Jan. 18th/Feb. 15th for holidays) Only $74 for 4 sessions Session 2 Monday, Feb. 22—Monday, Apr. 1 (missing Mar. 14th) Six sessions $110 Session 1 Wednesday, January 13th—Feb. 17th Six sessions $110 Session 2 Wednesday, Feb. 24th—Wednesday, Apr. 3 (missing Mar. 16) • Six sessions $110

Hurry! Space is limited. For more information or to register your child visit www.covenantnaples.com/ministries/childrens_ministry/moms_morning_out/

NEAPOLITANfamily • February 2016

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2016 PRESCHOOL GUIDE NICAEA ACADEMY PRESCHOOL At Nicaea Academy, Christian disciplines are combined with educational learning so that students learn what it means to believe in Christ while also having the academics required to become intelligent individuals. Three different preschool locations are available.

Nicaea Academy offers a pre-k curriculum that is based on the A Beka System, which is a Christian-based learning method using scholastic textbooks published by A Beka.

laughter, and promoting socialemotional growth. Through extensive research and adoption of the Creative Curriculum, Precious Cargo offers children the right balance of skills, intellect, and global awareness. The academy embraces the importance of balancing academics with children’s individual needs with the goal of teaching the “whole” child. Precious Cargo is an inclusive school welcoming all families. Teachers at Precious Cargo are supported by an administration passionate about education, and available to offer support.

2200 SANTA BARBARA BLVD. NAPLES, FL 34116 239-455-9090 NICAEAACADEMY.COM

5200 CRAYTON ROAD NAPLES, FL 34103 (239)261-7442 WWW.PRECIOUSCARGOACADEMY.ORG

PRECIOUS CARGO ACADEMY

PRESCHOOL OF THE ARTS

Precious Cargo Academy sees early childhood education as the foundation to lifelong learning. PCA strives to establish opportunities for play, cognitive development,

Preschool of the Arts focuses on the whole child and provides an environment rich in hands-on opportunities for children to grow socially, emotionally, physically and cognitively. Our multiple award-

winning program focuses on providing developmentally appropriate experiences in math, science, language and literacy concepts as children learn to express their creativity and ideas while building the skills needed for later learning.

The diverse, inclusive school is fashioned to expand and stimulate children’s minds and provide them with an unparalleled first academic experience. Located in the heart of Naples, our state-of-the-art facility provides an ideal space to nurture a warm community with a young and active spirit. As the only certified Eco-Healthy preschool in Naples, our school offers healthy snacks and is a nut free facility.

Offering music and movement, visual, performing and culinary arts, science exploration, yoga, gardening and Shabbat celebrations, Preschool of the Arts has become the conduit through which children emerge as happy, productive, and successful learners.

1789 MANDARIN RD, NAPLES, FL 34102 (239) 263-2620

WWW.NAPLESPRESCHOOLOF THEARTS.COM ROYAL PALM ACADEMY Royal Palm addresses a student’s strengths and weaknesses with personal attention. Teachers encourage the discovery and pursuit of talents through instruction in a foreign language, art, music, physical education and technology. Working with parents, teachers provide individualized instruction and direction.

16100 LIVINGSTON RD., NAPLES, FL 34110 WWW.ROYALPALM ACADEMY.COM 239-594-9888 ST. ELIZABETH SETON CATHOLIC SCHOOL Serving Pre-K 3 through eighth grade students since 1981, St. Elizabeth Seton Catholic School is committed to focusing on the development of the whole child.

Featuring state-of-the-art tech-

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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NEAPOLITANfamily • February 2016

RACHEL RECOMMENDS

Book Reviews

RACHEL NEWMAN is 10 years old and in the fifth grade at Sea Gate Elementary.

She is active in Irish dancing, piano, flute, acting and volleyball. Writing, reading, and watching “I Love Lucy” are her great joys, along with taking pictures of her cats.

Bumped Up by Pam Greer

P

ayton and Renika (Neeka) are best friends who do everything together, including sports. In Bumped Up by Pam Greer, Payton and Neeka grow apart, make new friends, and play volleyball. The girls also end up becoming each other: Neeka, who always failed at everything, becomes a volleyball all-star, and Payton, the basketball star, for once isn’t the best at something.

This book really kept me wondering: would their friendship heal, would their varsity team make it to District Championships and win? I love when I can’t stop reading a book, and I couldn’t stop reading this one!

My favorite scene was when the whole varsity team had to touch the lucky doorknob. There’s a doorknob on a door in the school library that is supposed to be lucky, ever since the football team all touched it and then won a big game. I loved that scene because it really showed the whole team was really devoted to volleyball. The girls all got up bright and extra early in the morning to go to touch a lucky doorknob that might not even work! To me that shows devotion. But, to be honest there really isn’t a favorite scene in the book for me. That is only ONE of my favorites.

My favorite character is Lacey, because she was replaced by Neeka in the starting line-up, but didn’t go into hysterics! I loved how when Payton asked her how she dealt with not being on the starting line-up she said that every team needs subs, and that they can’t be a team without subs. They need the subs to be there in case a player gets hurt or injured. Those words were really powerful and, to me, I think they had a pretty big meaning.

This book is about volleyball, but it’s also about sportsmanship, friendship, and to keep trying even when it’s rough. I really think that you don’t need to play volleyball to read this book. But if you do like volleyball, this book is extra special. It’s hard to find novels about volleyball. I know, I’ve looked.

I would recommend this book to girls and boys ages nine and up, considering some of the vocabulary is a little higher, but parents, don’t worry about the content on this one.

Because Pam Greer loves volleyball, and worked as a physical therapist for pro beach volleyball players, she wrote two other books. Payton and Renika also are the main characters in Queens of the Court and Block City.

If you have suggestions for books for Rachel to review, e-mail your suggestions to: rachel.v.newman@outlook.com.

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NEAPOLITANfamily • February 2016

2016 PRESCHOOL GUIDE

LEARNING CAN BE FUN Give your kids a head start on the this school year with custom tutoring sessions at Wise Minds Tutoring Center Tutoring for Grades K-12 • Free Assessment • No Contracts Flexible Scheduling • One on One Instruction • Sibling Discount Guaranteed Grade Level Improvement

$100 off

’s Tuition First Mopirnesth2/29/16 Ex

1575 Pine Ridge Road, Suite 4, Naples, Florida 34109 • erin@wisemindslearning.com

239-631-2348 • www.WiseMindsLearning.com

MONTESSORI

A c a d e m y o f N a pl e s

A life-long joy of learning, an education for life INFANT TODDLER CHILDREN’S HOUSE VPK ELEMENTARY ADOLESCENT Programs for Ages 8-weeks to 15-years

Join us for one of our Open Houses

Wednesday, February 3rd, 5:00 P.M to 6:00 P.M. Wednesday, February 10th, 5:00 P.M to 6:00 P.M. Wednesday, February 17th, 5:00 P.M to 6:00 P.M.

or

Call us to schedule a Private Tour 239-597-2255

More information can be found on our website

www.naplesmontessori.org

2659 Professional Circle, Suite 1118, Naples, Florida 34119 License #C20CO0026 DAILY HOURS 7:30 A.M. to 5:30 P.M.

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nology and accredited classroom curriculum including related arts, Seton provides a challenging, quality education that consistently exceeds local and national standards.

2730 53RD TERRACE SW NAPLES, FL 34116 WWW.SAINTELIZABETH SETON.COM 239-455-2262 SEACREST COUNTRY DAY SCHOOL Seacrest Country Day School is a preschool-grade 12 college-preparatory school in Naples that fuels intellectual engagement, teaches ownership of the educational experience, cultivates quality of character, and inspires students to lead lives of significance.

7100 DAVIS BOULEVARD NAPLES, FLORIDA 34104 239-793-1986 WWW.SEACREST.ORG

top preschool in Naples. Programs are offered for children ages birth to age 5 and are top-quality, dedicated to preparing a firm foundation for students entering kindergarten and successive school years.

Beginning with its “Baby and Me” and “Mommy, Me, and More” programs, children begin their formative years in a safe, wholesome, academically challenging environment, conducive to promoting self-esteem, confidence, and individuality. Its dedicated and welltrained staff provides a caring and loving atmosphere in which each child flourishes and grows to meet his or her full potential. Enrichments in science, art, technology, STEM, storytelling, puppetry, drama, gardening/nutrition, music, fitness, and foreign language are offered.

4630 PINE RIDGE ROAD NAPLES, FL 34116 (239) 455-3227 WWW.TEMPLESHALOM PRESCHOOL.ORG

SMALL WORLD EARLY LEARNING CENTER It is the philosophy of Small World that early childhood be a time of fun, warmth, exploring and discovery. Preschool children are creative, and enthusiastic learners. The staff strives to nurture and encourage these qualities.

Small World offers an atmosphere that promotes social, emotional, physical and intellectual growth and development of the child as a whole. The learning process is approached through an emergent curriculum education, which emphasizes the interests of the child.

Small World Early Learning Center offers programs for children 6 weeks-5 years. The center is VPK certified, offering full day, half day, and partial week programs.

727 108TH AVENUE NAPLES, FL 34108 239-597-5748 WWW.SMALLWORLDNAPLES.COM TEMPLE SHALOM PRESCHOOL Temple Shalom Preschool has been distinguished for many years as a

YMCA CHILD DEVELOPMENT CENTER The YMCA Gaynor Early Learning Center offers a comprehensive curriculum that focuses on building relationships and providing responsive care for children ages three months to 3 years of age. The curriculum for preschool children, ages 3 and 4 years old, focuses on building relationships, the learning environment, how children learn and how teachers and families can work together to strengthen the child’s growth and development, ensuring school readiness.

The program is rated in the top 95 percentile in Collier County.

The teacher to child ratio is lower than state requirements, which allow teachers to give more attention to children and help them achieve milestones. The Y’s character values of caring, honesty, respect, responsibility and healthy living are all a part of the daily routine.

5450 YMCA ROAD, NAPLES FLORIDA 34109 (239) 597-5437 GREATERNAPLESYMCA.ORG

NEAPOLITANfamily • February 2016

ADMISSIONS

OPEN HOUSE

March 8, 2016 REGISTER ONLINE

www.seacrest.org or call 239-793-1986

NEAPOLITANfamily • February 2016

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Naples’ Catholic Schools Offer Choice to Area Families

M

ore 6,500 Catholic schools nationwide offer academically rigorous and faith-filled education to hundreds of communities. Statistically, there are many hallmark outcomes continuously linked to Catholic schools: test scores that exceed state and national averages; high graduation rates, specifically an average 99%; low teacher-to-student ratios with a national average of 13:1; and high college matriculation after high school, nationally at 86%.

Here in the Naples community, those same numbers are reflected at the five schools serving the area from pre-K through high school. Residents from Marco Island to Estero attend three pre-kindergarten through eighth grade schools: St. Ann, St. Elizabeth Seton, and Royal Palm Academy.

St. John Neumann Catholic High School serves the entire Naples area, while residents to the east can access the Donohue School in the city of Ave Maria.

Several factors make local Catholic schools a valuable part of the local educational system:

1.

Highly accessible teacher and counselor support. Catholic schools’ missions often stress the concept of community, which tends to lead to high levels of student engagement and achievement

SAVE THE DATE! SETON OPEN HOUSE

and strong teacher commitment despite typically lower salaries than public school counterparts. An example: St. John Neumann requires a quarterly progress interview for each student with a teacher he or she bonds with as a mentor. With career clothes required on interview days, student and teacher delve into grades, community service requirements, career ideas, and college from goals to applications.

2.

Academic achievement. The 2015 report of the National Assessment of Educational Progress shows that Catholic schools outperformed public schools in reading and mathematics in grades four and eight. Students at religious schools outperformed the 2015 national average SAT scores in math, reading, and writing.

This holds true locally, with $3.2 million in scholarships offered to Neumann graduates last year.

3.

Formation of the whole person – intellectually, morally, physically.

Catholic schools are recognized for a disciplined environment – one that respects every individual, seeks to promote selflessness, self-control, the pursuit of justice, and faith in action. Nationally, graduates of Catholic high schools are statistically proven to be more likely to continue church involvement

Sunday, January 31st 11 a.m. - 1 p.m.

Reserve your child’s desk now for the 2016-17 school year!

St. Elizabeth Seton Catholic School Reserve your child’s desk now for the 2016-17 school year.

Save the Date!

OPEN HOUSE Sunday, January 31 11am-1pm

2730 53rd Terrace SW, Naples, FL • 239-455-2262 • saintelizabethseton.com 44

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St. Elizabeth Seton Catholic School 239.455.2262 NEAPOLITANfamily • February 2016 www.saintelizabethseton.com

as an adult; less likely to have their marriages end in divorce; vote more often; are more civically engaged; more tolerant of diverse views; and, are more committed to service as adults. For what it’s worth, they also earn more money throughout their lifetimes.

Naples’s Catholic schools are communities – small families in their own right, but also linked to the traditions and goals of Naples.

All are accepting application for the fall of 2016.

St. Elizabeth Seton Catholic School (pre-K to 8) 2730 53rd Terrace SW Naples, FL 34116 239-455-2262 St. John Neumann Catholic www.saintelizabethseton.com High School (9 to 12) 3000 53rd Street SW Royal Palm Academy Naples FL 34116 (pre-K to 8) 239-455-3044, ext 201 16100 Livingston Road www.sjnceltics.org Naples, FL 34110 239-594-9898 Saint Ann Catholic School www.royalpalmacademy.com (pre-K to 8) 542 Eighth Avenue South Rhodora J. Donohue Naples, Florida 34102 Academy (K to 12) 239.262.4110 4955 Seton Way www.stann.net Ave Maria, FL 34142 239-280-2450 www.donahueacademy.org

R

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A

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P

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C

A

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Uncommon Education = Extraordinary Results

Providing the Best in Private Catholic Education for Grades PreK through 8th

Live, Learn, Lead

Naples-area Catholic Schools

No Application Fee for new applicants ($150 Savings).

Must submit ad with Application for Admission.

Expires June 1, 2016

16100 Livingston Road, Naples, Florida 34110 www.royalpalmacademy.com | 239.594.9888 Florida Catholic Conference Accredited by: Florida Kindergarten Council, Florida Council of Independent Schools, Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, National Association for Private Catholic Independent Schools, Member of Council for American Private Education. Royal Palm Academy admits students regardless of race, color, national, or ethnic origin. Royal Palm Academy is a non-profit corporation.

APPLY NOW!  Accepting applications for fall from students in grades 8, 9, 10

 Campus tours at your convenience  Monday/Thursday student visit days  Register online for required Placement Exam  Register online for Open House February 21st from 3 - 5 pm

 Visit www.sjnceltics.org or call the number below for info Contact Admissions Director Mrs. Betsi Jones 239-455-3044, ext 201 3000 53rd St SW Naples, FL 34116

Building Leaders with Faith, Intelligence, Integrity, and Service NEAPOLITANfamily • February 2016

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FOR MORE INFORMATION: CHILD CARE SERVICES

Play and Education

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

Hour/Day/Overnight

is happy to introduce a complete

Children’s Birthday

joannpiano @gmail.com

Package!!!

Ms. Lorel 631-3041

ABC Swim School

We will furnish:

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.abcswimschoolnaples.com PediaSwim & WSI/CPR certified

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(239) 793-4999 www.coralcaygolf.com Coming in March

SwimLessons Group/Private/ Your Home or Mine

Red Cross Instructor Lifeguard/CPR/1st Aid

Lessons for all ages!

Specializing in frightened swimmers

RobertHollisterHomes.com 239.250.6113

Each ofce is independently owned and operated.

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NEAPOLITANfamily • February 2016

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contact us for your free estimate

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

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www.conservancy.org

"A very worthwhile nature experience for all ages!"

Enjoy our electric boat cruise on the Gordon River, reserve a guided kayak tour, get hands-on in the Dalton Discovery Center touch tank, and much more at the Conservancy Nature Center.

1495 Smith Preserve Way, Naples, FL 34102 • 239.262.0304 48

Just South of Naples Zoo off Goodlette-Frank Rd.

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NEAPOLITANfamily • February 2016