January 2015 neafamily.com
COMPLIMENTARY
Here’s to a happy, prosperous & oh-so-shiny 2015! 6 LOCAL WALKS
to get your family exercising together GIVING BACK BY GIVING BLOOD Vacation Planning? Consider a National Park Getaway NEAPOLITANfamily • January 2015
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Meet Collier’s Newest School Board Members HIGH SCHOOL SENIOR IN THE HOUSE? We have scholarship info! neafamily.com
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My hospital is a Mayo Clinic Care Network member. The doctors and specialists at NCH & Mayo Clinic are sharing everything from first-hand experience to a wealth of knowledge allowing you access to Mayo Clinic’s expertise for solving the hard-to-solve medical problems. For you that means peace of mind and access to the finest medical knowledge available. Right here at home. NCH and Mayo Clinic...working together to make your hospital even better.
This is my hospital ...now even better!
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NEAPOLITANfamily • January 2015
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Bring this ad to the Open House and get a
FREE GIFT! while supplies last
The Greater Naples YMCA
OPEN HOUSE
Wednesday, January 14th Ribbon Cuttings at 12:30 & 5:30 p.m. Tours & Activities Starting at Noon Come celebrate our brand new Schulze Family Foundation Wellness Center!
5450 YMCA ROAD | 239.597.3148 | www.GreaterNaplesYMCA.org NEAPOLITANfamily • January 2015
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JANUARY 2015 TABLE OF CONTENTS
Departments
06 ON THE COVER 08 ONLINE THIS MONTH
AT NEAFAMILY.COM
09 FROM THE PUBLISHER 08 REEL LIFE WITH JANE
Family Movie Reviews
18 CITY CONNECTION
City of Naples Parks Department News and Events
20 COMMUNITY EVENTS 24 CENTERFOLD CALENDAR 26 JANUARY EVENTS
Community events for your family.
on
the cover…
10 Happy, Healthy Family by Sara Marchessault A 2015 Family Goal Setting Guide
12 Collier County Public Schools by Katie Tanner
Move Over Holiday Season, College Scholarship Season is Here!
15 $450,000 in Scholarships Available for Local Students Collier and Lee County students are invited to apply for a variety of scholarships.
16 Meet Your New Collier County Public School Board Members by Stacy Nicolau Meet new board members Kelly Lichter and Erika Donalds.
40 National Park Travel With Your Family by Helen Collela Making spring break or summer travel plans? Put a vacation at one or more of our national parks on the top of your list.
42 Walk This Way: Walking Your Family to Fitness by Andrea Breznay Noelle Dionne Fuller (age 3) is the daughter of Isaac and Abby Fuller. Isaac is a Physical Education teacher at Laurel Oak Elementary and Abby is the Intervention Support Specialist at Mike Davis Elementary. Noelle attends “A Step Up” pre-school at Golden Gate High School. Noelle has a newborn brother Troy.
Six Naples-area walks that will get your family moving.
44 Giving Back By Giving Blood by Kerrie McLoughlin
Why, how and where to give blood.
Cover photo by Peggy Farren of Avant Garde Photography • (239) 263-7001
You may sign up for both Mondays and Thursdays!
Covenant Church of Naples Mom’s Morning Out Providing a loving environment for children while offering mothers and fathers a needed break Mondays and Thursdays 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 2015 Themed Sessions
Monday Sessions: Monday A: January 12-February 16 Monday B: February 23-March 16 Thursday Sessions: Thursday A: January 14-February 18 Thursday B- February 25-April 2
Hurry! Space is limited. For more information or to register your child visit www.covenantnaples.com/ministries/childrens_ministry/moms_morning_out/ 4
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NEAPOLITANfamily • January 2015
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“I could never have gotten clean without Crossroads. I know it saved my life.” – CLINT
His Recovery is Our Concern. CROSSROADS at David Lawrence Center offers a full continuum of co-occurring capable substance abuse services for adults. These services leverage the Southwest Florida-based not-for-profit leading provider of behavioral health services’ 45-year history of inspiring life-changing wellness. Crossroads is located on the Center’s private, tranquil eight-acre campus and includes refreshing gardens, a fitness court and screened pool. Crossroads services include a state-of-the-art, 15-bed inpatient detoxification program; a beautifully appointed 18-bed residential treatment program; a flexible, intensive outpatient treatment program; and supportive aftercare services. These services holistically address the wellbeing of the entire individual and feature experiential therapies that focus on the physical, emotional, social and spiritual needs of each participant. Become your own miracle by making a commitment to life-lasting wellness and recovery by calling Crossroads today.
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239-354-1428 CrossroadsNaples.org
NEAPOLITANfamily • January 2015
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online JANUARY
at
NEAFAMILY.COM
Web Only Contests Browse Our E-Magazine
Browse Our E-Magazine Read complete issues of Neapolitan Family on your desktop computer or mobile device. To access: Neafamily.com → Digital → Click on issue you’d like to read.
Take Us Wherever You Go Neapolitan Family features responsive web design, so our web pages adjust to whatever portable device you use. Access our resources, directories, publications, calendar and news updates 24/7.
E-Newsletter Neapolitan Family sends out an enewsletter every Thursday filled with fun events for the upcoming week. To sign up: Neafamily.com → click on the newsletter graphic box at the top of each page.
Web Only Content
Web Only Content exercise and health and much
Updated Calendar
information on our January Updated Calendar “web-only” contest.
Takewith Us Wherever You Go update We update our web site daily new more to get your We 2015 off our to aweb site daily with new Neapolitan Family web articles, news and local information. Y articles, news and local information. You’ll features responsive great start. design, so our web pages adjust to also find an archive of print articles as also find an archive of print articles as well portable you Web use. Access as web-only articles with everything fr as web-only articles withwhatever everything from device• Only Contest ourprojects. resources, directories, publications, information to crafts projects. travel information to crafts Check the contesttravel page for calendar and news updates 24/7.
E-Newsletter We update the calendar frequently add We update the calendar frequently adding Family sends• out Home an e- Hints new events that come in after the prin new events that come in Neapolitan after the print newsletter publication deadlines. Check often to publication deadlines. Check often every to seeThursday filled with fun Quick fixes, decorating tips and events the upcoming week. To sign up: what is going on in Naples and surrou what is going on in Naples and for surrounding craft ideas to getareas. yourThere homeis NOT a better calendar Neafamily.com areas. There is NOT a better calendar of→ click on the newsletter spiffed up for the new year. events available locally. events available locally. graphic box at the top of each page.
The Music Studio of Naples
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Web Only Contests
This month’s Read issues of Neapolitan Fam- web-only We offerarticles: great contests for our web re We offer great contests for ourcomplete web readers. ily on contest: your desktop computer or mobile To find out about our current contest To find out about our current • New Year’s Tips Neafamily.com → Contests. device. To access: Neafamily.com → Digital Neafamily.com → Contests. → Click on issue you’d like to read. Organization tips, articles on
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LITTLE P 868 9
• Top R • Presch • Summ
www.Littl
NEAPOLITANfamily • January 2015
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from the publisher…
the parenting magazine devoted to collier county
THIS MONTH: Welcome 2105!
P.O. Box 110656 Naples, FL 34108 (239) 514-0338 Phone (239) 514-0339 Fax info@neafamily.com Publisher Andrea Breznay andrea@neafamily.com
Are you ready for 2015? There’s something special about the promise of a whole new year–I look forward to January for just that reason. Everything
Assistant Publisher Stacy Nicolau snicolau@neafamily.com
and anything is possible when you have an entire year in front of you. I
Copy Editor Leigh Ann Newmann
because it illustrates how I feel about a new start--happy, shiny and filled
Cover Photographer Peggy Farren Contributing Graphic Designer Janine Vitanza Editorial Submissions are welcome. We reserve the right to edit, reject or comment editorially on all material contributed. We cannot be responsible for return of any unsolicited materials. Articles and advertisements in Neapolitan Family do not necessarily reflect the opinion of the publisher nor does the publisher assume responsibility for statements made by our advertisers or editorial contributors. Acceptance of advertising by Neapolitan Family does not constitute an endorsement of the products, services or information. We do not knowingly present any product or service which is fraudulent or misleading in nature. Neapolitan Family is available free of charge at over 275 distribution points throughout Collier County as well as digitally at www. neafamily.com. Neapolitan Family is ©2015 by Neapolitan Publishing Co., LLC. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part without written permission is strictly prohibited.
love this month’s cover photo (shout out to the amazing Peggy Farren!) with glitter. We’re welcoming Katie Tanner as a regular columnist with news from Collier County Public Schools. Her first article is all about scholarships available to Collier students. We also have another article on scholarships on page 15–hundreds of thousands of dollars in local scholarship money is available so check out the details and then get your student right to their applications. In other education news, Stacy Nicolau profiles our two new School Board members: Erika Donalds and Kelly Lichter on pages 16-17. Making spring break or summer vacation plans? Consider a national park visit. There are over 50 national parks (including several in Florida). For more information see our article on pages 40-41. We’re also covering health in this issue with articles on giving blood and walking as a family. You’ll find 6 of my favorite walks on pages 42-43. It’s an easy exercise option that every family member can participate in–and you get time together to reconnect! Have a wonderful January!
Andrea Breznay Publisher NEAPOLITANfamily • January 2015
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REEL LIFE WITH JANE
By Jane Louise Boursaw
Family Movie & DVD Reviews N
ew year! New movies! New on the big screen for kids and teens in January is a beloved Peruvian bear, an animated film from George Lucas and lots more. Here’s a sneak peek at what’s new in theaters and on DVD and Blu-ray this month. Note that release dates are subject to change. PADDINGTON Not Yet Rated; Likely G or PG In Theaters 01/16 • Ok for Kids 6+ Studio Canal (TWC-Dimension) Reel Preview: 4 of 5 Reels From producer David Heyman (“Harry Potter”) and the beloved novels by Michael Bond, this cute family movie follows the comic misadventures of a young Peruvian bear (voiced by Colin Firth) who travels to the city in search of a home. Lost and alone, he starts to realize that perhaps city life isn’t for him, until he meets the kindly Brown family who offer him a temporary haven. Things are going fine until this rarest of bears catches the eye of a museum taxidermist. Directed by Paul King, the cast also includes Hugh Bonneville, Nicole Kidman, Sally Hawkins, Jim Broadbent, Peter Capaldi and Julie Walters.
SPARE PARTS PG-13 for some language and violence In Theaters 01/16 • Ok for Kids 13+ Lionsgate • Reel Preview: 4 of 5 Reels Based on Joshua Davis’ Wired magazine story, “Spare Parts” (a.k.a. “La Vida Robot”) is based on a true David & Goliath story about four Hispanic teenagers from Phoenix who form a robotics team under the leadership of their school’s newest teacher, Fredi (George Lopez). With no experience, 800 bucks, used car parts and a dream, this rag tag team goes up against the country’s reigning robotics champion, MIT. On their journey, they learn not only how to build a robot, but also a bond that will last a lifetime. Directed by Sean McNamara, this movie also stars Jamie Lee Curtis, Carlos Penavega and Marisa Tomei.
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Inspired by “A Midsummer Night’s Dream,” this madcap musical fairy tale features popular songs from the past six decades to help tell the tale of a colorful cast of goblins, elves, fairies and imps, and their hilarious misadventures sparked by the battle over a powerful potion. Gorgeous visuals from Lucasfilm and Industrial Light & Magic (which created the CGI animation for 2011’s Oscar-winning film “Rango”) bring to life the colorful forest. Featuring a story by George Lucas and directed by Gary Rydstrom, this movie stars Alfred Molina, Kristin Chenoweth, Maya Rudolph, Peter Stormare, Evan Rachel Wood, Elijah Kelley and Alan Cumming.
TAKEN 3
PROJECT ALMANAC
PG-13 for intense sequences of violence and action, and for brief strong language • In Theaters 01/09 Ok for Kids 14+ • 20th Century Fox Reel Preview: 3.5 of 5 Reels
PG-13 for some language and sexual content • In Theaters 01/30 Ok for Kids 14+ • Paramount Pictures Reel Preview: 3 of 5 Reels
Liam Neeson can’t catch a break. He returns as ex-covert operative Bryan Mills, whose reconciliation with his ex-wife is tragically cut short when she’s brutally murdered. Consumed with rage and framed for the crime, he goes on the run to evade the relentless pursuit of the CIA, FBI and the police. One last time, Mills must use his “particular set of skills,” to track down the real killers, exact his unique brand of justice, and protect the only thing that matters to him now – his daughter. Directed by Olivier Megaton from a screenplay by Luc Besson and Robert Mark Kamen, “Taken 3” also stars Maggie Grace, Famke Janssen, Dougray Scott, Jonny Weston and Forest Whitaker.
STRANGE MAGIC Not Yet Rated; Likely G or PG In Theaters 01/23 • Ok for Kids 7+ Touchstone Pictures/Disney Reel Preview: 4 of 5 Reels NEAPOLITANfamily • January 2015
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“Project Almanac” is yet another “found footage” film (hopefully without the shaky camera effects), and the plot centers on a group of friends who discover plans to build a time machine. So of course, they decide to build one themselves. Their initial goal is to use it to undo past mistakes, but we all know how that turns out. Changing the past has dire consequences about what happens in the future. Directed by Dean Israelite, this movie stars Allen Evangelista, Sam Lerner, Jonny Weston, Sofia Black-D’Elia and Ginny Gardner.
swordfish, gets shipwrecked on a desert island with Peso, and meets the perfect sidekick while hunting for pirate treasure: a parrotfish!
Rated G • On DVD 01/06 Ok for Kids 3+ Reel Review: 4.5 of 5 Reels
DANIEL TIGER’S NEIGHBORHOOD: WELCOME TO THE NEIGHBORHOOD
Join the Octonauts as they set out on a series of piratey adventures! Kwazii comes face to face with his long-lost pirate grandfather Calico Jack, while the Octonauts travel deep down the Amazon river in search of a lost city. Then, Kwazii goes head-to-head with three swashbuckling
Not Rated • On DVD 01/13 Ok for Kids 3+ Reel Review: 4 of 5 Reels
THE GRUFFALO and THE GRUFFALO’S CHILD Not Rated • On DVD 01/13 Ok for Kids 3+ Reel Review: 4 of 5 Reels “A gruffalo? What’s a gruffalo?” “A gruffalo! Why, didn’t you know? He has terrible tusks, and terrible claws, and terrible teeth in his terrible jaws.” So begins the story of a quick-witted mouse as he encounters a host of predators who seem to think he might make a tasty treat. “The Gruffalo s Child” picks up some years later with The Gruffalo’s daughter curious about her father’s fantastic stories of a Big Bad Mouse in the deep, dark woods. Thus, she sets out one snowy night on a thrilling journey of discovery. This delightful 30-minute animated film is adapted from the classic children’s book by Julia Donaldson. CEDR 1003 NeaFamily 1-4 pg Horiz.4_Layout 1 2/18/13 9:45 AM Page 1
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Not Rated • On DVD 01/13 Ok for Kids 3+ Reel Review: 4 of 5 Reels Dinosaurs and trains! What could be better?! “Dinosaur Train” celebrates the fascination that preschoolers have with both, while sparking an interest in life science, natural history, and paleontology. This DVD also includes a fun puzzle for little ones. Episodes include: 1) The Egg Stealer; 2) Hatching Party; 3) Tank’s Baby Brother; 4) Diamond Anniversary; 5) Nursery Car; 6) All Kinds of Families; 7) A Sea Turtle Tale; and 8) The Good Mom.
NEW ON DVD/BLU-RAY: OCTONAUTS: PIRATE ADVENTURES
NEAPOLITANfamily • January 2015
DINOSAUR TRAIN: EGGSTRAVAGANZA & PUZZLE
We all miss Mr. Rogers’ Neighborhood, but thankfully, Daniel Tiger is here to carry on. Based on Fred Rogers’ landmark social-emotional curriculum, “Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood” tells engaging stories about the life of a preschooler using musical strategies. Through imagination, creativity and music, Daniel and his friends learn key social skills necessary for school and life. Episodes include: 1) Daniel’s Birthday; 2) Daniel’s Picnic; and 3) Neighbor Day. You’re humming the Mr. Rogers’ song now, aren’t you? JANE’S REEL RATING SYSTEM One Reel – Even the Force can’t save it. Two Reels – Coulda been a contender Three Reels – Something to talk about. Four Reels – You want the truth? Great flick! Five Reels – Wow! The stuff dreams are made of. the things he sees are not just remembered, they form a part of his soul.
Maria Montessori
inspiring the love of learning since 1984 neafamily.com
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HAPPY, HEALTHY FAMILY
By Sara Marchessault
A 2015 Family Goal Setting Guide
T
he holidays are over. It’s the perfect time to start thinking about the year ahead and have some fun with a family goal setting session. According to Forbes.com, “those who are successful set daily achievable goals.” For a family setting goals together, this is about setting a goal and making regular progress on it. Working together through a process of setting goals, planning, and taking action is a valuable practice to teach your children. And one that can result in some serious family fun for the coming year. To get started, schedule an afternoon family planning session. You’ll need a way to write down your goals, intentions, or resolutions, and a method for sharing them with each other. The materials you use can make this a fun and engaging process. Paper and pencil is a good starting point, or you can jazz up the writing portion of the activity with chart paper, poster board, or construction paper. And don’t forget writing utensils that are fun for kids, like multi-colored gel pens and highlighters.
The first part of the planning process can be brainstorming. Establish some ground rules for this phase. A good rule to use is that there are no critiques or judgments. Brainstorming is about getting ideas on paper and not making decisions. It is literally a brain dump. If your children are younger, you will need to give them more direction by giving them a choice of 3 or 4 possible goals and asking for their input. For preteens and teens, let them lead the way. Some possible areas for family goal setting include health, financial, vacation plans, more family leisure time and home repair and upkeep. In your brainstorming session be specific: how can we spend more time together as a family in 2015? What are some good health goals for us as a family in 2015? What projects should we take on in our home to make it more comfortable for all of us? After you’ve exhausted the brainstorming phase, the next step is to take a look at the list of ideas you’ve come up with and start to discuss each one. You can organize
your conversation so that each member of your family has an opportunity to share their thoughts about an idea. As a group, you can decide how many goals you want to take on for the year and think of a process to decide which ones you will take on. Keep your final goal list short–2 or 3 yearly goals is more than enough. Anything more than that will be overwhelming to both you and your children. You can also consider a mix of yearlong goals and smaller, short term goals that you can accomplish within a few weeks or months. You can use this opportunity to teach your kids about the democratic process by voting on the goals you’ll tackle. You can use a system of each person ranking them. You can even decide that each family member gets to choose one goal for the family. Choose a method that works for you and your kids, but is still age appropriate for the little ones to understand what they’re doing. After you have selected your family goals for the year, its time to start breaking them down into action steps and a timeline. For this
The “Happy, Healthy Family” column is spondored each month by Monarch Therapy.
For more information on Monarch Therapy, call (239) 325-9210 or check www.MonarchTherapy.com 10
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part of the process, it’s nice to have one sheet of paper or poster board dedicated to each goal. You can do this digitally too, especially if your kids are into flowchart or project planning software. Start with one goal and decide two pieces of important information right away. The first is the end result, or how you will know you have achieved the goal. You decide what your measure of success will be. The other important piece of information is to choose a target date for reaching your goal. Keep in mind that it’s perfectly okay if the date changes and you adjust your plans. The simple reality is that if you have a plan, you stand a much better chance of achieving your goal than you would without one. Once you define and agree on the end result and the target date, start to write down the steps you’ll need to take to achieve the goal. Will you need to save 1. More time together money? Make some changes to as a family the way you buy groceries? Get 2. A family fitness program some supplies for a special project to redo a room in your house? 3. A special vacation List all of the steps and try 4. Working on a volunteer to assign a deadline for each. project together An added step for clarity is to determine who will be respon5. Home improvement sible for making sure each step projects gets accomplished. Think of 6. Regular family meals steps and special jobs the kids can do. Younger children can be 7. Saving and budgeting involved by making sure parents 8. Organizing a room, the and older siblings are completing garage or family papers their tasks. This special job can be monitored by checking off 9. Deepening spiritual completed steps on your list for practice by finding and each goal. regularly attending Once you finish the process church or temple of planning your family goals, 10. Getting a family pet choose a place to make your list of tasks easily accessible. Can you 11. Learning a sport the hang them on the fridge? Write family can play together the steps on the shared family calendar? Where can you place your list of tasks and deadlines so that it’s easy to refer to and you can monitor your progress to achieve your goals? As you start checking off tasks throughout the year and working toward achieving your goals, you may want to keep a journal of your progress so that you can document the process of growing and achieving as a family unit. Another way to deepen this experience is to encourage your kids to apply the process to their individual goals for the year. Teaching this process when your kids are young will poise them for a lifetime of setting and achieving goals.
family goal SUGGESTIONS
For an excellent goals worksheet check http://www.sparkparenting.com/ Tip_Sheet_Family_Goals.pdf SARA MARCHESSAULT is an author, professor, and coach. She works with students and clients to clearly define goals and take action steps to achieve them. These days most of her own goals are focused on spending time with her family and writing when she can squeeze it in. NEAPOLITANfamily • January 2015
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COLLIER COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOLS
By Katie Tanner
College Scholarship Season is Here Move over holiday season, get ready for scholarship season!
J
Financial Aid Information Nights
• January 14, 2015 at 6:00 p.m. Naples High School (1100 Golden Eagle Circle) • January 20, 2015 at 6:30 p.m. Gulf Coast High School (7878 Shark Way) • January 22, 2015 at 6:30 p.m. Barron Collier High School (5600 Cougar Drive) • January 27, 2015 at 6:30 p.m. Palmetto Ridge High School (1655 Victory Lane) • January 28, 2015 at 7:00 p.m. Golden Gate High School (2925 Titan Way)
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anuary is not only the beginning of a new year, but it is also the start of the busiest season for college scholarship applications. High school seniors across the country will be busy updating their resumes, writing essays and completing federal financial aid forms – all in an effort to fund their college educations. Navigating the college money maze is not an easy task. It is probably one of the most stressful events students and their families will go through in their lifetimes. The cost of four years of tuition, room, board, books and fees can run into the hundreds of thousands of dollars. Collier County Public Schools (CCPS) is here to help. During the month of January, parents and students have the opportunity to attend one of five Financial Aid Information Nights. Parents and students may attend any of the meetings. Financial aid experts will be presenting on everything from how to apply for the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to scholarships. Questions will be welcome and are encouraged. NEAPOLITANfamily • January 2015
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Speaking of the FAFSA, it is not a secret that many students and parents are fearful of this online application for federal student aid. 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 Internal Revenue Service (IRS) into your online FAFSA form using the IRS Data Retrieval Tool. It’s well worth the effort involved to determine if you are eligible for free money for college. College Goal Sunday: FAFSA Help CCPS wants to ensure that you get the help you need to complete the FAFSA. In February, CCPS is partnering with several other organizations for College Goal Sunday, a free program that helps students and families complete the application. There will be several locations and times available during the weekend of February 21st-22nd, 2015. • February 21, 2015, 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Ave Maria University (5050 Ave Maria Boulevard) • February 21, 2015, 1:00 to 4:00 p.m. Hodges University (2655 Northbrooke Drive) • February 22, 2015, 1:00 to 4:00 p.m. Golden Gate High School (2925 Titan Way) Virtual Town Hall Meeting CCPS also will be holding its second Virtual Town Hall Meeting on College and Career Readiness at 6:00 p.m. on February 12. The meeting will take place at the MLK School Administrative Center (5775 Osceola Trail, Naples) with telecast locations at Immokalee Technical Center (508 North 9th Street, Immokalee) and Everglades City School (415 School Drive, Everglades City). Don’t procrastinate! During the 2013When it comes to getting scholarships, 2014 school year, students should be prepared to work nearly $29 million hard. “Scholarships take time and effort. They can be very consuming and was awarded to it is the student’s responsibility,” says students in Christopher Smith, School CounselCollier County ing Coordinator for the ninth through Public Schools. twelfth grades. He adds that it is important for students not to wait until their senior year to get started. “There are some awards, mostly competitions, that begin as early as ninth grade.” Smith encourages everyone to check out the scholarship database on the CCPS website: www.collierschools.com. The database recently was upgraded to include new search parameters, and new scholarships are being added daily. During the 2013-2014 school year, nearly $29 million was awarded to students in Collier County Public Schools. That’s up from more than $22 million the prior school year. A final note for parents of college-bound students, one that you’ve likely mentioned to your children before, it does not pay to procrastinate. Federal student aid is on a first come, 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.
For additional information call (239) 377-0180 or check www.collierschools.com. NEAPOLITANfamily • January 2015
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Enrollment Night! Friday, January 30th 4pm to 7pm Offering the best fitness programs and birthday parties designed specifically for kids 6 weeks to 13 years.
Free Lifetime Membership
Plus $20.15 off your first month!
(239) 431-6499 mygym.com/naples
Youth Theatre of The Naples Players
ACTING! DANCE! VOICE! A wide variety of classes begin in January, kindergarten through teens. Come learn, experience, have fun! For class brochure and registration information, visit www.naplesplayers.org. Scholarships available.
Save the date for our spring shows – Twelfth Night, April 25 & High School Musical Jr., May 22-24. KidzAct at The Naples Players, 701 5th Avenue South, Naples, FL 34109 ∙ 239-434-7340, Ext 10 or 39
w tY G neafamily.com
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ALWAYS SOMETHING FUN AND NEW AT THE CENTER
ACT CREATE
LEARN P L AY CENTER FOR VISUAL ARTS, 26100 OLD 41 ROAD, BONITA SPRINGS, FL CENTER FOR PERFORMING ARTS, 10150 BONITA BEACH RD, BONITA SPRINGS, FL
239-495-8989 14
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A R T C E N T E R B O N I TA . O R G NEAPOLITANfamily • January 2015
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EDUCATION
$450,000 in Scholarships Available for Local High School Seniors
Collier and Lee County students are invited to apply for a variety of scholarships totalling approximately $450,000.
T
he Southwest Florida Community Foundation’s scholarship application process for the 2015-2016 school year is underway. Approximately $450,000 in scholarship money is available through 40 scholarships for local high-school students and through 23 scholarships for undergraduate and graduate students from Lee, Charlotte, Glades, Hendry and Collier counties. The E-Apply online scholarship application tool can be accessed through the Community Foundation’s website at www.floridacommunity.com/scholarships. Students may review the scholarships available online as well as a tutorial about how to create and submit the online application. Students may apply for multiple scholarships and have the ability to upload transcripts, SAT/ACT scores, letters of recommendation and financial documentation (if required). For need-based scholarNEAPOLITANfamily • January 2015
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ships, students are required to submit the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) form. The deadline for applications is March 2, 2015. “We have scholarships for vocational students, not just for attendance at colleges and universities,” said Melanie Holaway, scholarship coordinator for the Southwest Florida Community Foundation. “We are working hard to educate local students on the various types of funding available.” According to Holaway, examples of some of the more unique scholarships not as highly sought after include scholarships for students with disabilities, student athletes, students pursuing a specific field of study such as teaching deaf or blind individuals, specific church membership or community service hours in a particular facility such as a Veterans Hospital, adult students going back to school, students from particular schools or communities, and students
pursuing a graduate or professional degree. New scholarships this year include the Dorothy Curtis Brown Scholarship for a student interested in studying early-childhood education in an accredited college or university in Southwest Florida to obtain a Child Development Associate (CDA) Credential or an associate’s degree or bachelor’s degree in early childhood education. The Norman Marcus Scholarship is modeled for a student who graduated from Charlotte, Collier, Glades, Hendry or Lee County and who can demonstrate financial need. This scholarship is for four years or for such a time as will allow the student to complete a college or graduate degree. The Former Graduate of Everglades City Scholarship provides high-school seniors who are full-time residents of Everglades City a scholarship renewable up to four years. In 2014, the Community Foundation awarded $450,000 in scholarships. With a streamlined online application process, students are not required to submit paper applications. As leaders, conveners, grant makers and concierges of philanthropy, the Southwest Florida Community Foundation is a foundation built on community leadership with an inspired history of fostering regional change for the common good in Lee, Collier, Charlotte, Hendry and Glades counties. The Community Foundation, founded in 1976, connects donors and their philanthropic aspirations with evolving community needs. With assets of more than $80 million, the Community Foundation has provided more than $60 million in grants and scholarships to the communities it serves. Last year, the Foundation granted more than $2.8 million to nonprofit organizations supporting education, animal welfare, arts, healthcare and human services. The Foundation granted $782,000 in nonprofit grants including more than $400,000 in regional community impact grants and additional $450,000 in scholarship grants. For more information about the Southwest Florida Community Foundation, call 239-274-5900 or visit www.floridacommunity.com. neafamily.com
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EDUCATION
By Stacy Nicolau
Meet Your New Collier County Public School Board Members
K
elly Lichter has a master’s degree in social studies education and has taught at Palmetto Ridge High School in Collier County. In addition, she has coached several sports for middle school and varsity teams including soccer, tennis and basketball. Mrs. Lichter and her husband Nick have a daughter Caroline (6) and Mason (4). After two years of teaching and taking time to start a family, Mrs. Lichter became the founder and President of the Board of Directors at Mason Classical Academy. Due to her hard work and perseverance, The November 2014 elections brought two new faces to the five-member School Board: Kelly Lichter (District 1) and Erika Donalds (District 3). Left: Kelly Lichter is shown with her husband Nick and children Caroline and Mason. Bottom: Erika Donalds is shown with her husband Byron and children Damon, Darin and Mason.
© Liddle Kidz Foundation
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Darren Miles Photography
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the charter school opened its doors for the 2014-2015 school year with 416 students in grades K-6. Charter schools are public schools that offer parents a different choice in education. Enrollment spots are awarded on a lottery system. Calling herself an “education reformer,” Lichter states on her website that she “strives for equality of educational opportunity regardless of zip code or socioeconomic status.” Erika Donalds brings her financial experience as a Certified Public Accountant and a Controller and Partner at Dalton, Greiner, Hartman, Maher & Co., LLC (DGHM), a New York-based investment management firm to the School Board. She also serves as an advisory board member for Mason Classical Academy. Mrs. Donalds and her husband Byron live in Naples with their three sons Damon (11), Darin (7) and Mason (3). Donalds believes that the greatest strength of the Collier County Public School system is the “amazing staff of teachers and administrators that work tirelessly everyday to provide the very best academic experience for our students.”
The challenges of the district, Donalds observes, is the state’s legislature’s involvement in day-to-day decisions that have resulted in excessive testing, changing graduation requirements and spending special funding money on programs that may not be in the best interest of our local district. “We need more local control to make decisions that are best for the students in our community, Donald says. “ I plan to work diligently with our state legislators to push for necessary changes.” Donalds also is a founding member of Parents R.O.C.K. (Parents’ Right of Choice for Kids), a nonprofit organization that works to influence educational policies and legislation affecting parents and their children. Founded during a time when parents felt like they had no voice in afterschool program selection, the group has since taken on issues such as BYOD, cell towers
on school campuses, FCAT placement and more. Working with this organization and the concerned parents inspired her to run for the School Board. One of the first School Board votes that both Lichter and Donalds influenced was to change the board meetings to a later time in order to enable more parents and tax payers to attend. They also scheduled monthly board workshops to increase engagement in the community, Donalds says. “I look forward to more dialogue and expect that creative solutions will result from these meetings.” You can reach Kelly Lichter at lichteke@collierschools.com and Erika Donalds at donale@collierschools.com or through the School Board office number (239) 377-0485.
To see the School Board Meeting and Workshop Calendar, along with the agenda topic go to http://www.collierschools.com/docs/CalendarBoard%20Meetings20142015.pdf To find out more about Parents R.O.C.K. go to http://www.parentsrock.org.
It’s a New Year. Time to let Brain Balance get your child back on track. It’s hard to watch your child struggle with social, behavior and academic problems. Brain Balance understands. Our program synchronizes left brain/right brain connections - a change proven to promote personal growth and improvement.
Brain Balance addresses: • Lack of Focus • Impulsivity • Tantrums
• Trouble Making Friends • Family Interactions/Relationships
VISIT Brain Balance Naples 2355 Vanderbilt Beach Road, #140 Naples, FL 34109 CALL 239-451-9167 www.brainbalancenaples.com
$50 off our
Grand Opening Special!
Comprehensive Assessment Cannot be combined with any other offer. Valid thru January 31st only at Brain Balance of Naples
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CITY CONNECTION PARKS DEPT. By Laura Tichy-Smith
January Fun in the City of Naples
Y
our family’s January will be filled with fun if you partake of these fantastic outdoor events offered by the City of Naples Community Services Department and community organizations.
Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Day Parade The annual Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Day Parade will Line up on Broad Ave and proceed north on 3rd Street South, then right on 5th Ave South, and end on 8th Street South. The parade will be followed by an educational program in Cambier Park. 11 a.m. — 2 p.m. Monday, January 19. For more information, call the NAACP at 239-455-2886.
Chalk It Up On Fifth Watch as artists transform the half-mile pavement of posh 5th Avenue South into a
canvas for a day at this event raising college scholarships for local high school students. The fun runs from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Saturday, January 24. Chalk It Up is free to attend and will include live entertainment, music by live bands and fashion shows throughout the day. Vote for your favorite artistic creation by purchasing vote tickets at the event and 100 percent of your donation will go into the scholarship fund. For more information, contact 825-8515.
Empty Bowls Fill Local Food Banks While you are downtown for the free chalk art festival, you can help Harry Chapin Food Bank by grabbing a delicious lunch at the Empty Bowls Naples event in Cambier Park (755 Eighth Avenue South, Naples). Not only do you get to enjoy gourmet soups and breads donated by local restaurants, you get to pick out your own handmade
pottery bowl to take home as a souvenir of the event. Tickets are $15 each paid at the gate and the event runs 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday, January 24. For more information, call 239-334-7007 or visit www.emptybowlsnaples.org.
Take a Class Fleischmann Park (1600 Fleishmann Blvd. boasts a variety of classes and sports leagues for both adults and children (including kids as young as 3 or 4). Offerings for children include gymnastics, soccer, baseball, golf, martial arts, flag football, modeling and charm, boys etiquette boot camp, and cheerleading. Adult offerings include line dancing, tap dance, GiGi Rocky Gong, Zumba, softball, flag football, ultimate Frisbee, racquetball, and table tennis. Call 239213-3020 for prices, dates and registration.
Empty Bowls will be held on Saturday, January 14 from 11 a.m to 2 p.m. 18
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Free Concerts at the Bandshell Bring a blanket for the whole family and enjoy free jazz concerts in Cambier Park (755 Eighth Avenue South, Naples) from 2 – 4 p.m. every Sunday. Concert schedule: Music Makers on January 4; Naples Dixie Land Jazz Band on January 11; Naples Concert Band on January 18; and Gulf Coast Big Band on January 25. For more information, call 239-213-3058.
School’s Out Fun Day for Grades K Through 6th Need childcare when school is closed but you have to work? Fleischmann Park at 1600 Fleishmann Blvd., Naples has you covered. They have planned fun activities for your child’s day off from school, including crafts, games and sports. Fun Days runs 7:30 a.m. -- 5:30 p.m. You must register no later than no later than one week prior to the event. January fun days are Monday, January 5 and Tuesday, January 6. $25 per child. To register, call Fleischmann Park 213-3020.
Afterschool Solutions
The Adventures and Gymnastics Club at Fleischmann Park (1600 Fleishmann Blvd.) offers great fun with many activity choices for your child at this afterschool club hosted by an energetic, welltrained staff. Your child will participate in gymnastics and sports fitness classes as well as daily homework and enrichment time. Monday -- Friday 2:45-6 p.m. (also open on all early release days). $50/week for first child and $45/week for siblings (inquire for partial week rates). Call to 239-248-6122 to register.
Come On In, the Water Is Free The River Park Aquatic Center (451 11th St. North, Naples) is open. Featuring fun for everyone from tiny tot to serious swimmer, pool admission is free to residents of Collier County. The kids will love the beach-like shallow end with play fountains, dump buckets and water slide, while the grownups will enjoy the lap swimming exercise lanes and sunbathing deck. Parents will rest assured their children are in good hands with the Red Cross certified lifeguards on watchful duty. Current hours are Monday – Saturday 10 a.m. -- 5 p.m. and Sunday 12 -- 5 p.m. For information, call 239-213-3040.
Our Educated and Dedicated Staff Encourages Creative, Expressive, Hands on Learning Your child will receive quality interaction with our low student-teacher ratios and will enjoy our spacious, shaded, fun-filled play area.
Serving children Infant - age 5 VPK Certified
Full-day, Half-day and partial week schedules available Where your child’s needs are our only priority.
727 108th Ave., Naples • 597-5748 License #C20C07416 smallworldelc@embarqmail.com • www.smallworldnaples.com
Dance Arts by Maria
Teaching love and appreciation for the art of dance. Offering classes for ages 2-18 in
Free swimming at River Park Aquatic Center NEAPOLITANfamily • January 2015
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Ballet, Tap, Jazz, Hip Hop, Contemporary, Lyrical, Pointe, Technique and Improv
www.NaplesDanceArts.com
239-513-6999
naplesdancearts@hotmail.com Find us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter @naplesdancearts
SWFL READERS CHOICE “BEST DANCE STUDIO” 2009, 2010, 2012, 2014
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YOUR COMMUNITY NEWS
Twinkle Twinkle Little Store Baby Gear Rentals & Resale We buy & sell your gently used kids stuff
We pay CA$H
Clothing (newborn to kid 16 & maternity) Toys, Books, Dvds, Accessories Baby Gear & Furniture Cloth diapering, new products
We Moved To Bigger Store! 4172 Tamiami Trl N, Naples
239-262-5904
TwinkleTwinkleLittleStoreOfNaples.com
PMS CMYK RGB
239-260-2100 |
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New Hope for Parents of Struggling Kids in Naples!
N
othing is more painful for a parent than to watch your child struggle. Difficulties in school, trouble making friends, and tantrums are tough to observe, especially when parents know, that underneath it all, they have a great kid. Parents see the challenges, the emotions and the behavior. At the new Brain Balance Achievement Center in Naples, they see the underlying cause. A new Brain Balance Achievement Center opened last month in Naples at the The Shoppes of Vanderbilt, and welcomed guest speaker bestselling author, childhood neurobehavioral specialist and Brain Balance founder Dr. Robert Melillo. Dr Melillo presented two, free lectures to parents, educators and professionals about the program which combines physical and sensory-motor exercises with cognitive skill training and healthy nutrition. Dr. Melillo explained how the Brain Balance program helps children ages 4-17 with issues such as lack of focus, impulsivity, meltdowns, trouble making friends, difficult family interactions/relationships and more. The coordinated program balances and synchronizes left brain/right brain interaction. The result: newly strengthened connections trigger advancements in behavior and social and academic performance. Parents are welcome to visit the new center to find out more about how Brain Balance can help their child. Brain Balance is located at 2355 Vanderbilt Beach Rd., Naples. Call 239-451-9167 or check BrainBalanceNaples.com for information.
8th Annual Naples German-Fest
O
ur Savior Lutheran Church and Preschool is hosting their 8th Annual Naples German-Fest on Saturday, January 31, 2015, from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Admission is adults: $7; children 3-12: $3; children under 3: free. There will be live German music, authentic German food, a silent auction, a door prize, and fun activities for the children. Free parking is available at the church. Proceeds from the event will benefit Avow Hospice, the Harry Chapin Food Bank, and Stan & Haney’s D.R.A.F.T. Fund (supports Florida Troops and their units overseas). Bring nonperishable food items to German-Fest and receive $1 worth of food/beverage ticket(s) per item (up to 5 maximum). For more information call (239) 597-4091 or visit www.napglesgermantfest.com. NEAPOLITANfamily • January 2015
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Dance Classes
Class e resum s Janua e ry 5 th
for all Ages!
Why choose us? 1. Facilities - Our professional sprung dance oors reduce fatigue and prevent injuries.
2. No Fund Raisers - Students or parents
are never required to fund raise for studio events.
3. Family Plans - We make dancing affordable for families with more than one child.
Classes offered in the following styles of dance: Acro, Ballet, Broadway Jazz, Cecchetti Exam Classes, Combo Classes for Children,
5400 Jaeger Rd
Lyrical, Hip Hop, Jazz, Leaps & Turns, Modern/ Contemporary, Pointe and Tap. NEAPOLITANfamily • January 2015
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visit us at
www.bdaNaples.com
Naples, FL 34109
239.566.3535 neafamily.com
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YOUR COMMUNITY NEWS
Baby Basics’ 6th Annual Walking Challenge
B
aby Basics’ 6th annual Walking Challenge will be hosted on Saturday, January 24, 2015 at the North Collier Regional Park on Livingston Road in Naples. This ever-popular event is open to all ages and includes a 1.5 to 6-mile walk in the park. The purpose of the event is to increase public awareness about Baby Basics, a volunteer organization that provides free diapers and kindness to over 345 babies from low-income, working families in Collier County and Bonita Springs. Last year, more than 200 people attended the Challenge, which raised over $20,000 for Baby Basics. The entry fee for Baby Basics’ Walking Challenge is $25 for one walker and a child and $10 for additional children. On-site registration for the Walking Challenge begins at 8:30 a.m. and the Challenge begins at 9:30 a.m. Brunch will be served following the Challenge and will be provided by Wynn’s Catering Baby Basics of Collier County was founded in 2004 and has impacted over 1,600 families in Collier County and Bonita Springs since it began. Families interested in the program are referred from local social service agencies and are screened for qualification. To participate in the program, families must meet certain criteria - which include at least one working parent or guardian, demonstrated financial need, and the family may not be receiving federal or state cash assistance. Those families who meet the criteria come to the closest distribution site to pick up a free supply of diapers. Volunteers greet the families, help them select the proper size, and provide information about the next distribution and other opportunities for supportive services. Baby Basics is a volunteer organization and all donations and sponsorship funds are used to purchase diapers. For more information about Baby Basics, visit www.BabyBasicsCollier.org or contact Jean Ann Lynch, Baby Basics founder and board president, at 239-352-4310 or via email at BabyBasicsNDC@ hotmail.com.
Helping Families with Their Real Estate Needs
W
ith one child in Oakridge Middle School and another just learning to walk, real estate professional Robert Hollister knows the needs of an active family. From school zoning to family-friendly communities, he is well aware of what is important to Neapolitan parents. Robert is a full-time Realtor® with Premier Sotheby’s International Realty, offering unparalleled customer service and the utmost attention to detail to buyers and sellers, both first-time owners and seasoned investors. Prior to real estate, Robert worked for over two decades in print and web communications, and continues to use his web skills and Internet marketing acumen for the benefit of his clients. Robert’s passions include the Guadalupe Center of Immokalee and CasitaLinda. org, which builds homes for families living in extreme poverty in San Miguel de Allende, Mexico. Robert graduated from Williams College, with a BA in mathematics. He is a member of the Naples Area Board of Realtors (serving on the e-Association Committee), the Florida Association of Realtors, and the National Association of Realtors, and can serve clients in both English and Spanish. For assistance buying or selling a home, contact Robert at (239) 250-6113 or visit RobertHollisterHomes.com.
www.reedorthodonticsnaples.com
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YOUR COMMUNITY NEWS
Noodles to Host Fundraiser for CCCR on January 14
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oodles Italian Café and Sushi Bar, located at Mission Square Plaza, at 1585 Pine Ridge Road in Naples, will host a fundraiser, “Queen vs. Teen Pasta-eating Contest,” to help support the mission and goals of Collier Child Care Resources, (CCCR) on Wednesday, January 14, 2015 from 6 – 8 p.m. Cost is $25.00 per person at the door and includes an Italian food and sushi buffet from 6-7 p.m. plus one free drink. For more information, call Collier Child Care Resources (CCCR) at 239-643-3908.
Naturalist Walks and Talks Begin in January
T
he Friends of Barefoot Beach Preserve is a volunteer organization dedicated to preserving, protecting, and enhancing natural features of the Barefoot Beach Preserve. The group fosters research and education endeavors, distributes literature, and secures volunteers to assist Collier County at the Preserve. Each week January through April, naturalist guided walks and talks are sponsored by the Friends of Barefoot Beach Preserve. These Programs are free. There is an entrance fee into the park for those who do not have a current Collier County beach parking permit. For programs, park in the first parking area on the right and meet at the Learning Center. Beachcombing & Shelling is offered Mondays and Fridays at 10 a.m. What do wrack lines, jellies, blue buttons, beachhoppers, ghosts, sea pork, and beans have in common? Come find out at this lecture on Beachcombing & Shelling. Exploring Coastal Estuaries is offered on Wednesdays at 10 a.m. Take a naturalist guided walk to the estuary and along a sandy trail to the beach. Explore one of the most productive ecosystems in nature and the unique coastal habitats at the Preserve. Please wear comfortable walking shoes, bring water, and wear sun protection for this 2+ hour walk. A Guided Nature Walk is offered on Saturdays at 9-10 a.m. Enjoy a guided walk by a naturalist along the boardwalk through a maritime forest and coastal strand. Learn the importance of barrier islands, how our ancestors used Florida’s state tree and about some of the native plants on barrier islands of Southwest Florida. The Saturday Lecture Series is held weekly at 10 a.m. Experience lectures on a multitude of topics, from native plants or animals to photography or exotic plants. For more information on The Friends of Barefoot Beach walks or lectures, email info@ fobbp.org or check www.friendsofbarefootbeach.org.
Enrollment Night atEnrollment My Gym Jan. Night! 30 Friday, January 30th 4pm to 7pm
Offering the best fitness programs and y Gym Naples will bespecifically hosting an birthday parties designed forenkids 6night weeks 13 years.30th from rollment ontoJanuary
M
4-7pm. Stop in to enroll andLifetime check out the Free clean, bright facility. The highly qualified Membership Plus $20.15 off your first month! staff will be organizing age-appropriate activities and games (239) for the431-6499 children as well the curriculum. Sspecial promotions will be mygym.com/naples available only during this event. Call 239-431-6499 to RSVP or for any additional information.
Special Occasion Clothing Custom and Ready To Wear
GIRLS • BOYS • TEENS • ADULTS
239.431.8440
www.stacysgoldenhanger.com Shops at Vanderbilt (between Toast & The Good Life)
2355 Vanderbilt Beach Road, Suite 168, Naples, FL 34108
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Bar/Bat Mitzvah • Sweet 16 Graduation • Communion Homecoming • Bridal Party Night Out • Holiday Events PRIVATE APPOINTMENTS RECOMMENDED FOR CUSTOM CLOTHES neafamily.com
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YOUR COMMUNITY JANUARY EVENTS CALENDAR SUBMISSIONS: To submit your event for both our online and print calendars go to www. neafamily.com and follow the instructions for setting up a calendar account and inputting event information. The deadline for print calendar events is the 12th of the month preceding publication. You can submit events anytime for the online calendar.
2 Friday Call for time. Ringling Bros And Barnum & Bailey Presents: Built to Amaze. Experience all the things you know and love and be amazed by things you’ve never seen before. Astonishing performers, awe-inspiring athletes and amazing animals from around the globe have been assembled in one place. held at Germaih Arena. Check http://germainarena.com for ticket info. Runs through January 4. 8:30 AM. Free Tigertail Beach Walks. Shore birds, wading birds, fiddler crabs, mangroves, live shells and more! Meet your Conservancy of Southwest Florida volunteer guides at the kiosk for a walking tour of this natural beach. Walks are 1-2 hours. Bring water shoes and binoculars. For directions, go to www.conservancy.org/nature-center/ nature-walks. Call 239-262-0304 for additional information. Held Monday-Friday except holidays. 9:00 AM. Free Briggs Boardwalk Walk. Conservancy of Southwest Florida volunteer guides take you through five eco-commu-
nities from scrub to brackish ponds. Briggs Boardwalk is a Great Florida Birding Trail site at Rookery Bar, 300 Tower Road, Naples. Free, self-guided boardwalk open year round, dawn to dusk. For details, pictures and directions, go to www.conservancy. org/nature-center/nature-walks. Call 239262-0304 for information. Volunteer guides available most mornings Monday thru Sunday. 9:00 AM. Free Clam Pass Walks. Free, guided walk of boardwalk, bay, and beach – approximately 2 hours. Learn importance of mangrove trees, some Florida history, and meet fascinating creatures and plants that share this unique habitat. Meet your Conservancy of Southwest Florida guide at the gazebo near the parking lot tram stop. Clam Pass Park is west of US 41 on Seagate Drive. For more details and pictures go to www.conservancy.org/nature-center/ nature-walks. Held Monday - Saturday (except holidays). 9:00 AM. Holiday Camp at My Gym. Members are $35/day, nonmembers are $45/day, siblings get $10 off. My Gym is
Ages 18 months to 5 years old Hours: 9am-3pm | Extended hours available Two, three, four and five day programs. Full and half day availability. Celebrating children’s creativity through performing arts, visual arts, culinary arts, and music, encouraging healthy physical exercise and yoga. Nurturing the values of compassion, respect, tolerance, friendship, community responsibility and character development. Professional, dedicated and loving teachers. Brand new state-of-the-art facility, playground and security system. Promoting school readiness in literacy, the sciences, and mathematics. Proud to be the only certified Eco-Healthy preschool in Naples. provider
voted #1 childcare three years in a row!!
For more info call 263-2620 or email naplespreschoolofthearts@gmail.com www.naplespreschoolofthearts.com License #C20CO0076
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Impact Martial Arts Naples
Kids Love Our Classes! Kids Love the Fun and Exciting Activities Parents Love the Discipline, Confidence and Respect We Love to See Children Smile and Succeed
It’s a WIN for Everyone!
Get a 2 Week Trial for Only $20 Kids Programs for Ages 3+ Birthday Parties Day Camps & Summer Camps
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Impact Martial Arts Naples 5926 Premier Way #128 Naples, FL 34109 (In Magnolia Square, on the corner of Pine Ridge and Goodlette-Frank Rd. NEAPOLITANfamily • January 2015
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located at 13020 Livingston Road, #17, Naples. Call 239- 431-6499 for information. 9:30 AM. Guided Canoe Trips at Collier-Seminole State Park. Learn about our unique ecosystem, history, geology & animals. No paddling experience necessary and you can bring your own canoe. Park is located at 20200 Tamiami Trail East, Naples, 34114 (Near the intersection of Hwy 92 & 41). For reservations call 239394-3397. Trips are $30, $20 if you bring your own canoe. Held daily Monday through Saturday. 10:00 AM. Baby-Parent Rhyme Time at South Country Regional Library. This program is for the whole family and lasts about 30 minutes. Registration is required. Located at 21100 Three Oaks Pkwy, Estero. Call 239-479-4636 for information. Held weekly on Friday. 10:00 AM. Movie Mania at Rookery Bay. Bring the whole family and enjoy a selection of nature films selected by Rookery Bay staff and researchers. Movie mania will be held in the auditorium where the amphitheater-style, cushioned seating will give everyone a great view of the film with ample room to relax. Film selections are subject to change. Only family-friendly
films will be shown. Free. Rookery Bay is located at 300 Tower Road, Naples. Call 239-417-6310 or check www.rookerybay. org for information. 4:00 PM. Good Fortune II Classic Sunset Cruise. Coast Guard-certified captains and Conservancy of Southwest Florida volunteer guides steer you through mangrove-lined channels of Rookery Bay, home to an amazing array of some of the most spectacular wading birds and wildlife. Cruises may not be available on all days and are dependent on weather conditions and tides. Times vary by time of year. Subject to cancellation. Call 239-403-4236 or check http://www. conservancy.org/goodfortune to book your cruise. Cruises depart from Shell Island Road. Members: Adult $32, Under 12 $14; Others: Adult $42, Under 12: $19. Held daily during season. 6:00 PM. Golden Gate Community Center Kids Trivia Night. Parents need a night out? Bring your child to the battle of the minds. We will be having kids compete against each other for Movie/TV trivia questions. Must pre-register. Registration is limited. $8. Held at Golden Gate Community Center, 4701 Golden Gate Parkway, Naples. Call 239-252-4180 or check http://
6:00 PM. Wine Tasting & Live Music. Join us the first Friday of every month in the cafe and Lifestyle Center for wine-tasting and live music. This month enjoy over 25 wines from around the world. Payment is accepted in the cafe, upon arrival. Whole Foods is located at 9101 Strada Place, Naples. Call 239-552-5100 for additional information.
3 Saturday 7:30 AM. Open Air Farmers Market. Find fresh produce, flowers and baked goods. Located in the parking lot behind Tommy Bahama’s. Call 239-434-6533 for information. Held weekly on Saturday. 9:00 AM. Florida Arbor Day Celebration at the Zoo. We will have partners from various local organizations on hand to share information about the value of trees and great native choices for local landscapes. In addition, Davey Tree will have tree climbing demonstrations in Rainforest Grove and answer your tree care questions. Naples Zoo at Caribbean Gardens is located at 1590 Goodlette-Frank Road, Naples. Call 239-262-5409 or check http://www.caribbeangardens.com for information.
Temple Shalom Preschool
Explore the New Year with Collier County Parks & Recreation
colliergov.net for additional information.
Planting the Seeds in the Minds of our Future Exceptional Education for ages 2 - 5
i NOW REGISTERING i
Our mission is to enrich the quality of life for the community and visitors and protect the natural resources of Collier County.
After School • Camps • VPK & Preschool Homeschool • Aquatics • Arts & Music Education • Dance Fitness • Therapeutic Sports • Extreme & Water Sports • Social Special Events
for 2014-2015 school year
the
TSP
experience
TempleShalomPreschool.org 15000 Livingston Rd. • Naples, FL • 34109 239-252-4000 • www.collierparks.com
239-455-3227
4630 Pine Ridge Road
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Naples, FL 34119
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9:00 AM. Golden Gate Community Center Farmers Market. Fresh Fruits & vegetables, flowers, cookies and many other items. Spaces for rent. Held at Golden Gate Community Center, 4701 Golden Gate Pkwy., Naples. Call 239-252-4180 or check http:// colliergov.net for additional information. Held weekly on Saturday. 10:00 AM. Nature Lecture. Experience lectures on a multitude of topics, from native plants or animals to photography or exotic plants. Held at Barefoot Beach Preserve, 505 Barefoot Beach Blvd., Bonita Springs. Call 239- 252-4000 or check www.friendsofbarefootbeach. org for additional information. Held weekly on Saturday. 10:00 AM. Downtown Naples New Year’s Art Fair. Start the New Year off in style along 5th Avenue South in downtown Naples at this well-established art festival. Presented by The Naples Art Association on Fifth Avenue South, Naples. Call 239-692-8436 or check www.fifthavenuesouth.com for additional information. Also held Sunday, January 4. 10:00 AM. Estero Fine Art Show and Youth Artist Competition. All artwork is original and personally handmade by the professional artists. More info at www.hotworks.org. Held at Miromar Design Center, 10800 Corkscrew Road, Estero. Call 941-755-3088 for additional information. 1:30 PM. Folding Paper: The Infinite Possibilities of Origami” Activity Day. Enjoy a brief tour of the current exhibition “Folding Paper: The Infinite Possibilities of Origami” a hands-on, interactive exploration of origami with projects related to the theme of the exhibition. A great afternoon for the entire family. Free and open to the public. Held at Center for the Arts of Bonita Springs, 26100 Old 41 Road, Bonita Springs. Call 239-495-8989 or check http:// artcenterbonita.org for information.
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4 Sunday 2:00 PM. Free Concerts at the Bandshell. Bring a blanket for the whole family and enjoy free jazz concerts in Cambier Park. Held at Cambier Park, 755 8th Ave. S., Naples. Call 239-213-3058 or check http://www.Naplesgov.com/index.aspx?NID=576 for additional information. 6:00 PM. Smokin’ Jazz Music Series. All concerts in this series are free and open to the public. Don’t forget to bring a blanket or lawn chair. Held at Mercato, 9128 Strada Place, Naples. Call 239-5949400 or check www.mercatoshops.com for additional information.
5 Monday 7:30 AM. School’s Out Fun Day for K-6. Need childcare when school is closed but you have to work? Fleischmann Park has you covered. They have planned fun activities for your child’s day off from school, including crafts, games and sports. Fun Days runs 7:30 a.m. -- 5:30 p.m. You must register no later than no later than one week prior to the event. January fun days are Monday, January 5 and Tuesday, January 6. $25 per child. To register, call Fleischmann Park 213-3020. Held at Fleischmann Park, 1600 Fleischmann Drive, Naples. 8:00 AM. Holiday Camp at Impact Martial Arts. Camp held Jan 5-6. Cost is only $30 per day ($50 for 2 children). Kids should NEAPOLITANfamily • January 2015
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Many Collier County Library programs require preregistration, please call ahead for any program you are interested in attending to check requirements. wear comfortable clothes they can be active in, and bring a healthy lunch and snacks, plus a book or two for reading time.Located at 5926 Premier Way Unit 128, Naples. Call 239- 596-1633 or check www.impactNaples.com for additional information. 10:00 AM. Beachcombing and Shelling Talk. What do wrack lines, jellies, blue buttons, beachhoppers, ghosts, sea pork, and beans have in common? Come find out at this lecture on Beachcombing & Shelling. Held at Barefoot Beach Preserve, 505 Barefoot Beach Blvd., Bonita Springs. Call 239-252-4000 or check www.friendsofbarefootbeach.org for additional information. Held weekly on Monday. 4:00 PM. Explorations In Acting. Children For The Arts presents The After-School Theatre Troupe’s Explorations in Acting. Open to ages 6-13. Registration begins for this class on January 5th that runs January 26th - March 30th. Participation fee is required. Held at Pine Ridge Middle School,1515 Pine Ridge Road, Naples. Call Tish Poorman at 239-571-3305 for additional information.
5:30 PM. Naples Orchestra and Chorus Auditions. Held at Lely High School, 1 Lely High Blvd., Naples. Chorus openings for all parts especially men. Orchestra openings for all strings, bassoon and oboe. Call 401-884-5598 to schedule an orchestra audition or 239-348-1344 for chorus auditions. Audition candidates will be asked to perform a short selection and may be asked to sight-sing or sight-read.
orphaned animals it serves. Presentations are held in Eaton Conservation Hall. General Admission $10; Free to members. Seating is space-available. To make a reservation, contact Kelsey Hudson at 239-403-4228 or email her at kelseyh@conservancy.org. For a list of upcoming speakers and dates go to www.conservancy.org/evenings. Held at Conservancy of Southwest Florida Nature Center, 1495 Smith Preserve Way, Naples.
6 Tuesday
7 Wednesday
10:00 AM. Moms and Tots Storytime with Miss Jessica and Miss Felicia. 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 information. Held weekly on Tuesday.
9:00 AM. Whole Foods Farmer’s Market. Located at 9101 Strada Place, Naples. Call 239-552-5100 or check www. wholefoodsmarket.com/stores/Naples for information. Held weekly on Wednesday.
6:30 PM. Evenings at the Conservancyvon Arx Wildlife Hospital. Learn about Southwest Florida’s premier wildlife rehabilitation hospital and the native injured and
10:00 AM. Free Kids Crafts at Miromar Outlets. Kids from toddlers to twelve are invited to participate in free fun activities. Held at Miromar Outlets, 10801 Corkscrew Rd., Estero. Call 239-948-3766 or check www.miromaroutlets.com for information. Held weekly on Wednesday. 2:00 PM. Make-and-Take Craft at Artis-
8:30am - 2:30pm Extended Hours Available 2535 Northbrooke Plaza Dr. Naples, FL 34119 (Across from Super Target)
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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. Free with museum admission. Held at Artis-Naples, 5833 Pelican Bay Boulevard, Naples. Call 239- 597-1111 or check http://artisNaples.org for additional information. 6:00 PM. Big Fish Camp. All kids 3 years of age through 5th grade are invited to join us for Big Fish Camp at First Baptist Church of Bonita Springs on Wednesday nights from 6 - 8 pm. Each Wednesday night is packed full of games, crafts, activities, exciting lessons and much more. Big Fish Camp is free of charge. We also offer an optional “kid friendly” dinner for $3.00 per child ($15 family maximum). Held at First Baptist Church of Bonita Springs, 3971 Via Del Rey, Bonita Springs. Call 239-992-2952 or check www.fbcbonita.com for additional information.
LITTLE PEOPLE’S SCHOOL • For 2-5 year olds 868 94th Ave. N, Naples (239) 597-5064
• Top Rated VPK • Preschool Classes • Summer Camp www.LittlePeoplesSchool.info
8 Thursday 9:00 AM. Coconut Point Farmer’s Market. This market is an outdoor, dog-friendly shopping destination featuring local seafood, meats, beautiful flowers, locally harvested honey, baked goods, hand-made soaps, hand-woven baskets and hats, and one-of-a-kind hand crafted items. Runs through 2:00 p.m. Held at 23106 Fashion Drive, Estero. Call 239-992-9966 for additional information. Held weekly on Thursday. 10:00 AM. Baby-Parent Rhyme Time at South Country Regional Library. This program is for the whole family and lasts about 30 minutes. Registration is required. Call 239- 479-INFO (4636) for information. Located at 2110 Three Oaks Parkway, Estero. Held weekly on Thursday. 10:00 AM. Family Story Time at South Regional Library. This program is for the whole family and lasts about 30 minutes. Registration is required. Call 239- 479-INFO (4636) for information. Located at 2110 Three Oaks Parkway, Estero. Held weekly on Thursday. 5:00 PM. Whole Foods Block Party. Join us for free samples at our weekly storewide block party. Be sure to vote for your favorite recipe for a chance to win a $25.00 Whole Foods Market gift card. Drop off your completed ballot at Customer Service. Whole Foods is located at 9101 Strada Place, Naples. Check www.wholefoodsmarket.com/stores/Naples or call 239-552-5100 for information. Held weekly on Thursday.
9 Friday 7:00 PM. Outdoor Family Movie Night: The Life of Pi. Pack your blankets, lawn chairs, picnic baskets and coolers and watch this Academy Award winning film under the stars with your family and friends. Held at Alliance for the Arts, 10091 McGregor Boulevard, Ft. Myers. Call 239-939-2787 or check www.artinlee. org for information.
10 Saturday Call for time. 4th Annual Do Wop Festival. Call for times. Enjoy the sounds of the 50’s & 60’s eating and shopping at the 30+ NEAPOLITANfamily • January 2015
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vendors selling their crafts. Held on Ft. Myers Beach. Check www. visitfortmyersbeach.com for additional information. 10:00 AM. Fine Art and Craft Show. Naples Artcrafters is an association of artists and craft artisans that sponsors a juried Fine Art and Craft Show every month from October through April. Held at Cambier Park, 755 8th Avenue South, Naples. Call 239-213-3058 for additional information. 11:00 AM. Big Cypress Seminole Reservation’s 119th anniversary. The Big Cypress Seminole Reservation 119th anniversary celebration kicks-off at 11 a.m. with a grand entry by Seminole Tribe of Florida leaders and royalty. Beginning at 11:45 a.m., the fair will feature Central Plains Dancers followed by a critter and alligator show. There will also be carnival rides, along with food and craft vendors. Food vendors will be available throughout the day. Tickets for the festivities and concert (at $54 per person) are currently on sale at www.bigcypresscelebration.com and at www.completeticketsolutions.com. They will also be on sale at the Junior Cypress Rodeo Grounds the day of the event. Parking is $5. 11:00 AM. Please Mr Panda Storytime at Barnes and Noble. Join us for a storytime and activities featuring Please, Mr. Panda. This clever picture book about manners will delight children and endear them to Mr. Panda. Held at Barnes & Noble, 5377 Tamiami Trail North, Naples. Call 239-597-2040 for additional information. 11:00 AM. Winter Designs at Bonita Springs Library. Artful designs for children using a variety of mediums. Also held at noon for teens. Located at 26876 Pine Avenue, Bonita Springs. Call 239992-0101 or check http://library.lee-county.com/services/locations/ BN/pages/default.aspx for information.
11 Sunday 2:00 PM. Free Concerts at the Bandshell. Bring a blanket for the whole family and enjoy free jazz concerts in Cambier Park. Held at Cambier Park, 755 8th Ave. S., Naples. Call 239-213-3058 for information.
12 Monday 12:00 PM. Fenway South Farmer’s Market. The market will include fresh local produce, cheeses, fresh pastas, seafood, baked breads, meats, herbs, organic vegetables, plants, ready-to-eat meals, flowers, crafts, soaps, candles, live music, weekly giveaways and more. Parking is free. Held at JetBlue Park, 11581 Daniels Pkwy., Ft. Myers. Call 239-334-4700 for additional information. 3:30 PM. Rubberband Loom Club at South Regional Library. Bring your rubber band bracelet loom and rubber bands and we’ll learn to make easy bracelets and charms. Children age 8-11 welcome to attend. Held at South Regional Library, 8065 Lely Cultural Parkway, Naples. Call 239-252-7542 or check http://public.collier-lib. org for additional information.
13 Tuesday 9:00 AM. Kindergarten Open House. Naples Christian Academy is an independent, non-denominational, coeducational school
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serving children from Pre-K3 through grade 8. Known for rigorous academics and exceptional faculty who have a passion for teaching. As a small and close-knit learning environment, Naples Christian Academy is a place where each teacher and administrator knows every student well. Naples Christian Academy allows children to develop in a Christ-centered, supportive environment. Call 239-455-1080, ext. 226 or visit www. Napleschristian.net for additional information. 6:15 PM. Express Yourself at South County LibraryDance, instrumentals, karaoke or poetry. Open to fifth grade students and older. Held at South County Regional Library, 21100 Three Oaks Pkwy., Estero. Call 239- 479-INFO (4636) for additional information. 6:15 PM. When Life Gives You OJ. Teens will make a “practice dog” from an orange juice jug, just like in the book. For fifth grade students and older. Held at South County Regional Library, 21100 Three Oaks Pkwy., Estero. Call 239- 479-4636 for additional information.
14 Wednesday
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. For children ages 5-11 years. 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. Open House at Montessori Academy. Check out the school, speak with teachers and administrators. Openings for infant through 15 years old. Located at 2659 Professional Circle, Suite 1118, Naples.Call 239-597-2255 for information. 6:00 PM. Financial Aid Information Night. Held at Naples High School, 1100 Golden Eagle Circle. During the month of January, parents and students have the opportunity to attend one of five Financial Aid Information Nights. Parents and students may attend any of the meetings. Financial aid experts will be presenting on everything from how to apply for the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to scholarships. Questions will be welcome and are encouraged. Call 239-377-0180 for
6:00 PM. Guadalupe Center Fire & Ice Fundraiser at the Ritz Carlton. Fire & Ice will offer a night of live musical entertainment, a gourmet dinner and the opportunity to make on-the-spot donations for college scholarships during “Jump Up.” The event begins with a cocktail reception and a meetand-greet with high school students enrolled in Guadalupe Center’s Tutor Corps program. Funds from Fire & Ice directly benefit the Early Childhood Education, Guadalupe After-school Program and Tutor Corps. For more information about the Guadalupe Center and its signature event, visit www. GuadalupeCenter.org or call 239-657-7158. 7:00 PM. An Evening with Storyteller Kim Weitkamp. Weitkamp is an award winning storyteller and musician whose latest release, A Wandering Mind, was recorded during her wanderings from one coast to the other. It’s a hodge-podge of humorous yet insightful stories and songs that showcase the people that have crossed her path and influenced her life. Tickets to this one-night-only performance are $15 for Alliance members or $20 for non-members and are available online at ArtInLee.org or by calling 239-939-2787.
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January Picks L C IN EE OUNTY
15 Thursday 4:00 PM. Educator Open House at Barnes & Noble. The Educator Open House is for PreK-12th grade educators. Enjoy treats from the Cafe, pick up reading guides and posters for your classroom and shop with your extra discount. Barnes & Noble is located at 5377 Tamiami Trail North, Naples. Call 239-598-5200 for additional information.
16 Friday 9:00 AM. MLK Jr Holiday Weekend at the Zoo. Children free with paying adult. Held at Naples Zoo at Caribbean Gardens, 1590 Goodlette-Frank Road, Naples. Check www.caribbeangardens.com for additional information. Runs through January 18. 9:00 AM. 11th annual Southwest Florida Nature Festival. The 11th annual Southwest Florida Nature Festival on Jan. 16-18 offers more than 40 guided field trips to almost two dozen wildlife hot spots and on-the-water adventures around Southwest Florida, along with daytime lectures and a keynote address. Held at Rookery Bay Environmental Learning Center, 300 Tower Rd, Naples. Call 239-530-5972 for additional information.
Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Presents Built To Amaze! Germain Arena, 11000 Everblades Pkwy, Estero January 2 - 4 www.germainarena.com 800-745-3000
Florida Everblades Heroes and Villains Night Germain Arena, 11000 Everblades Parkway, Estero Saturday, January 10 • 5 - 9 p.m.
There will be bounce houses, face painting and live music, as well as a performance by Fur Circus during the game. 239-948-7825
Riverdale Kiwanis Medieval Faire
Lakes Park, 7330 Gladiolus Dr, Fort Myers January 10 - 11 & January 17 - 18 • 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
The Lunchbox Theatre: Journey to Oz
Florida Repertory Theatre, 2267 1st Street, Fort Myers Thursday, January 15 • 11 a.m.
Your $12 admission includes: The performance, discussion with the actors, interactive workshop and lunch. 239-332-4488
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 24 YEARS!!
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10:30 AM. Games and Bricks at South County Library. The meeting room will be open to build with LEGOs and play board games. All materials provided. Sponsored by Friends of South County Regional Library, Inc. Located at 21100 Three Oaks Pkwy, Estero. Call 239- 479-4636 for additional information. 2:00 PM. Ready, Set, Learn at CMON. Geocaching for ages 3-5, parents invited. Call Carolyn Williams at 239-260-1600 for additional information. Golisao Children’s Museum is located at 15080 Livingston Rd., Naples. Check cmon.org for additional information. 6:00 PM. IMSP Popcorn and Movie Night. This program provides a safe environment for children to watch a movie. $5. Held at Immokalee Sports Complex, 505 Escambia Street, Immokalee. Call 239- 657-1951 for additional information.
17 Saturday 8:00 AM. Immokalee Sports Complex Yard Sale. 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 505 Escambia Street, Immokalee. Call 239- 657-1951 for information. 9:00 AM. SWFL Hot Rod Nationals. The show opens at 9 a.m. both days and closes at 4 p.m. on Jan. 17 and 3 p.m. of Jan. 18. Admission is $5 for attendees ages 12 and older; parking is a $10 donation. Held at Jet Blue Park, 11581 Daniels Parkway, Ft. Myers. Call 239-334-4700 for additional information. Also held Sunday, January 18. 10:00 AM. Democratic Women’s Club of Collier County Meeting. Join us to discuss issues important to all progressive Democrats through the eyes of the Democratic Women of Collier County and their supporters. Held at 6710 Lone Oak Blvd., Naples. Check www. collierdems.org for information. 11:00 AM. Hug Machine Storytime at Barnes and Noble. Join NEAPOLITANfamily • January 2015
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us for a s torytime and activities featuring Hug Machine. This book with humorous illustrations is a wonderful feel-good story, sure to entertain the young and old alike. Located at 5377 Tamiami Trail North, Naples. Call 239-597-2040 for information. 1:30 PM. Pups and Books at Headquarters Regional Library. Stop by to read to a dog or just to pet one. Registration is not required for this program. Located at 2385 Orange Blossom Drive, Naples. Call 239-593-0870 or check http://public.collier-lib.org for information. 6:00 PM. David Lawrence Center Annual Gala. To become an Athenian for the evening, and fully partake in the Ancient Greek experience elegant Grecian attire and black tie is suggested. Throughout the evening, guests will have unlimited opportunities to bid on luxurious silent and live auction items while dining on the Greek inspired cuisine and dancing the night away to live music. Check www.DavidLawrenceCenter.org for ticket information. 7:00 PM. Star Gazing Party. You will be viewing the night skies with The Everglades Astronomical Society. There will be an interpretive presentation followed by constellation tours, using telescopes to view stars, galaxies, planets, and nebulae. Come watch the night sky open up and amaze you. Regular park entrance fees apply ($5 per vehicle). Located at 20200 Tamiami Trail East, Naples. Call 239-394-3397 for additional information.
18 Sunday 7:00 AM. Naple Daily News Half Marathon. Go to http://www. Napleshalfmarathon.net for information. Cash and medal awards. Held in Cambier Park, 755 8th Avenue South, Naples. 10:00 AM. Pets on Parade and Pet Fest. Begin by browsing an array of pet specialty vendors. You’re more than likely to find just the right collar, scarf or leash for the pet you adore. Local veterinarians as well as professional trainers and pet boarders will also be on hand to offer advice and inform you of their services. If a portrait of your favorite pet is on your wish list, speak to one of the pet artists that will be on hand. Then follow Grand Marshall Mayor John Sorey in the parade where people and their pets of every persuasion strut their stuff dressing in costume reflecting this year’s theme of “Working Your Tail Off: Pets Dressed for Work.” Judges will present awards for the most original costume; pet and owner look-alike; and best theme costume. Held on Third Street South, Naples. Call 239-4346533 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. Held at Cambier Park, 755 8th Ave. S., Naples. Call 239-213-3058 for information.
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19 Monday 11:00 AM. Dr Martin Luther King Jr Day Parade. The annual Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Day Parade will Line up on Broad Ave and proceed north on 3rd Street South, then right on 5th Ave South, and end on 8th Street South. The parade will be followed by an educational program in Cambier Park. For more information, call the NAACP at 239-455-2886. NEAPOLITANfamily • January 2015
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20 Tuesday Miguel Argumosa, DMD., Erin M. Taylor, DMD, Nicole Eastham, DMD Board Certified Pedioatric Dentists
Call for time. Homeschool Day at C’mon. Celebrate the creativity and skills that go along with being a marvelous maker. Students will be challenged to dream, design and build unique projects out of the most unusual building materials. This workshop is all about opening up creativity, learning engineering skills, and testing your inventions. Registration is $12/student. Golisao Children’s Museum is located at 15080 Livingston Rd., Naples. Check cmon.org for additional information. 6:00 PM. Financial Aid Information Night. During the month of January, parents and students have the opportunity to attend one of five Financial Aid Information Nights. Parents and students may attend any of the meetings. Financial aid experts will be presenting on everything from how to apply for the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to scholarships. Questions will be welcome and are encouraged. Held at Gulf Coast High School (7878 Shark Way). Call 239-377-0180 for additional information.
21 Wednesday
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5:00 PM. Sensory Night at CMON. Sensory Night at the Golisano Children’s Museum of Naples (C’mon) is an engaging, interactive, and inspiring night to promote families playing, learning and dreaming together in a low-sensory museum experience. Golisano Children’s Museum of Naples is located at 15080 Livingston Road, Naples. Call 239-514-0084 or check http://www.cmon.org for additional information. 5:30 PM. Frozen Party at Marco Island Branch Library. Are you a fan of Anna, Elsa and Olaf? Then come to our party! Play Frozen inspired games, eat frozen treats and join us in “Let it Go” karaoke. Wear a costume and make sure to bring your camera or phone for pictures. All ages welcome. 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. Financial Aid Information Night. During the month of January, parents and students have the opportunity to attend one of five Financial Aid Information Nights. Parents and students may attend any of the meetings. Financial aid experts will be presenting on everything from how to apply for the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to scholarships. Questions will be welcome and are encouraged. Held at Barron Collier High School (5600 Cougar Drive). Call 239-377-0180 for additional information.
23 Friday 6:00 PM. IMCP Parents Night Out. 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 n crafts, sports and so much more. Children Ages: 4-12 $5. Located at 321 North 1st Street, Immokalee. Call 239- 657-4449 for additional information.
(239) 595-4073 NEAPOLITANfamily • January 2015
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Many Collier County Library programs require preregistration, please call ahead for any program you are interested in attending to check requirements.
24 Saturday 8:00 AM. Chalk it Up on Fifth. Watch as artists transform the half-mile pavement of posh 5th Avenue South into a canvas for a day at this event raising college scholarships for local high school students. The fun runs from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Saturday, January 24. Chalk It Up is free to attend and will include live entertainment, music by live bands and fashion shows throughout the day. Vote for your favorite artistic creation by purchasing vote tickets at the event and 100 percent of your donation will go into the scholarship fund. For more information, call 239-825-8515. 8:00 AM. Max Hasse Community Park Yard Sale. 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. 9:30 AM. Baby Basics 6th Annual Walking Challenge. Baby Basics’ 6th annual Walking Challenge will be held at the North Collier Regional Park on Livingston Road in Naples. This ever-popular event is open to all ages and includes a 1.5 to 6-mile walk in park to increase public awareness about Baby Basics, a volunteer organization that provides free diapers and kindness to over 345 babies from low-income, working families in Collier County and Bonita Springs. The entry fee for Baby Basics’ Walking Challenge is $25 for one walker and a child and $10 for additional children. On-site registration
for the Walking Challenge begins at 8:30 a.m. and the Challenge begins at 9:30 a.m. Brunch will be served following the Challenge. For more information about Baby Basics, please visit www.BabyBasicsCollier. org or contact Jean Ann Lynch, Baby Basics founder and board president, at 239-3524310 or via email at BabyBasicsNDC@ hotmail.com. 10:00 AM. Frozen Party at South Regional Library. Play Frozen inspired games, eat frozen treats, create crafts and join us in “Let it Go” karaoke. Wear a costume and make sure to bring your camera or phone for pictures. Children of all ages welcome. Located at 8065 Lely Cultural Parkway, Naples. Call 239-252-7542 or check http://public.collier-lib.org for additional information. 10:30 AM. Winter Classic Swamp Buggy Races. The 66th Annual Swamp Buggy Racing Season continues with the Winter Classic Swamp Buggy Race January 24 & 25, 2015. In this second leg of three the competitors push their machines to the limits in a dash for the cash as well as to gain as many points as possible in an effort to be crowned Budweiser Cup Champion in the season finale coming in March of 2015. For more information and tickets please visit www.thefloridasportspark.com. Call 239-774-2701 for additional information. 11:00 AM. Empty Bowls Fills Local Food Bank. While you are downtown for the free chalk art festival, you can help Harry Chapin Food Bank by grabbing a delicious lunch at the Empty Bowls Naples event in Cambier Park. Not only do you get to enjoy gourmet soups and breads donated by local restaurants, you get to pick out your own
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8:00 PM. Carnival In The Sky Fireworks Show. Seminole Casino Immokalee invites guests of all ages to experience the largest land-based fireworks show in Florida light up the skies of paradise on Saturday, January 24. Guests are encouraged to bring their own chairs for the free, one-hour show. The Golden Gate High School and Golden Gate Middle School jazz bands will perform at 8 p.m., and the fireworks show will follow at 9 p.m. Call 239-658-1313 or check www. seminolecasinoevents.com for information.
25 Sunday 7:30 AM. 9th Annual Naples Bike Brunch. The bike rides will start and end in the heart of Naples. Multiple distance routes throughout Naples and the surrounding area. This is an event for everyone! It will be a fully supported road ride with brunch on the beach. Check www.Naplespathways. org for additional information.
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11:00 AM. I Love You Night and Day at Barnes and Noble. Join us for a s torytime and activities featuring I Love You Night and Day. This beautiful book expl ains that there are no bounds to love, and when you love someone you want the whole world to know! Barnes & Noble is located at 5377 Tamiami Trail North, Naples. Call 239-597-2040 for additional information.
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handmade pottery bowl to take home as a souvenir of the event. Tickets are $15 each paid at the gate and the event runs 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday, January 24. For more information, call 239-334-7007 or visit www.emptybowlsNaples.org. (755 Eighth Avenue South, Naples).
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2:00 PM. Free Concerts at the Bandshell. Bring a blanket for the whole family and enjoy free jazz concerts in Cambier Park. Held at Cambier Park, 755 8th Ave. S., Naples. Call 239-213-3058 for information. 7:00 PM. Naples Philharmonic Youth Orchestra Concert. The Naples Philharmonic Youth Orchestra performs a variety of classical works in this debut performance from the NPYO Chamber Ensembles. Free. Held at Artis-Naples, 5833 Pelican Bay Boulevard, Naples. Call 239-597-1111 or check http://artisNaples.org for additional information.
26 Monday 9:00 AM. New Parent Appreciation Break at Whole Foods. New parents, we appreciate you for everything you do. Please be sure to stop by for one free coffee or tea and a pastry from our fresh-baked pastry case. Located at 9101 Strada Place, Naples. Call 239-552-5100 for information.
27 Tuesday 4:00 PM. Crafter’s Choice at Vanderbilt Beach Branch Library. Drop by and make
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the crafts of your choice. Open to ages 2-6 years. Registration is not required for this program. Located at 788 Vanderbilt Beach Road, Naples. Call239-597-8444 or check http://public.collier-lib.org for additional information. 6:00 PM. Financial Aid Information Night. During the month of January, parents and students have the opportunity to attend one of five Financial Aid Information Nights. Parents and students may attend any of the meetings. Financial aid experts will be presenting on everything from how to apply for the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to scholarships. Palmetto Ridge High School (1655 Victory Lane). Call 239-377-0180 for additional information.
28 Wednesday 6:00 PM. Free Admission to The Baker Museum. Enjoy free admission to The Baker Museum the last Wednesday of each month from 6 to 9pm. A local band offers musical entertainment and audiences of all ages are welcome to view the galleries and learn from our docents. Located at 5833 Pelican Bay Blvd., Naples. Call 239-597-1900
or check www.thephil.org for information. 6:00 PM. Financial Aid Information Night. During the month of January, parents and students have the opportunity to attend one of five Financial Aid Information Nights. Parents and students may attend any of the meetings. Financial aid experts will be presenting on everything from how to apply for the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to scholarships. Held at Golden Gate High School (2925 Titan Way). Call 239-377-0180 for information.
29 Thursday 10:00 AM. Naples Boat Show. The show will premiere new boats and watercraft of all sizes, as well as boat and fishing products and accessories, at the newly renovated Florida Sports Park off Rattlesnake Hammock Road Extension. Explore the 7,000 square foot indoor-air-conditioned vendor exhibition of boating products, supplies and gear. Tickets are $10 per adult, kids 12 and under are free when accompanied by an adult. Free parking is available at the Florida Sports Park. Call 239-682-0900 for additional information. Runs through February 1.
NEAPOLITANfamily • January 2015
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30 Friday Call for time. PRCA Rodeo. The Immokalee Volunteer Firefighters Association in conjunction with Mason Pro Rodeo is bringing a professional PRCA rodeo to Immokalee at the Immokalee Seminole Youth Ranch Arena. For information check www.immokaleeprorodeo.com. 4:00 PM. Enrollment Night at My Gym. Get more information about fitness programs for children 8 weeks to 13 years old. Call 239431-6499 or log onto mygym.com/naples for additional information. 6:00 PM. Lawrence O’Donnell to Speak at Planned Parenthood Gala. Political analyst, journalist, actor, producer, writer and MSNBC news program commentator Lawrence O’Donnell will lend his voice in support of women’s rights on behalf of Planned Parenthood of Collier County at its 11th Annual Choice Affair, to be held at the Naples Beach Hotel & Golf Club. For more information, call 239-262-0301 or visit www.plannedparenthood.org/collier-county. 6:00 PM. East Naples Community Park 5th Grade Dance. Pizza and soda served. Tickets sold 2 weeks prior to dance or at the door. Contact 793-4414 for information. $10 per student. Located at 3500 Thomasson Drive, Naples.
31 Saturday 7:00 AM. Run for the Paws 5K. Go to https://runsignup.com/ Race/FL/Naples/RunforthePaws5K for information. 8:00 AM. Golden Gate Community Center Yard Sale. 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. $10. Located at 4701 Golden Gate Pkwy., Naples. Call 239-252-4180 or check http://colliergov.net for information. 11:00 AM. 8th Annual German-Fest. There will be live German music, authentic German food, a Silent Auction, a Door Prize, and fun activities for the children. Free parking at the church. Proceeds to benefit: Avow Hospice, the Harry Chapin Food Bank, and Stan & Haney’s D.R.A.F.T. Fund (supports Florida Troops and their units overseas). Bring nonperishable food items to German-Fest and receive $1 worth of food/beverage ticket(s) per item – up to 5 maximum. Call 239-597-4091 or visit www.Naplesgermanfest.com for additional information. 11:30 AM. Whole Kids Club. Whole Kids Club benefits the Whole Kids Foundation whose mission is to bring awareness to nutrition and help provide grants to local schools to provide them with salad bars and school gardens. $5.00 annual membership donation. Preregister at customer service, space is limited. Located at 9101 Strada Place, Naples. Call 239-552-5100 for additional information. 1:00 PM. Country Jam Music and Rib Fest. Naples largest festival, Country Jam Music & Rib Fest features two stages. Entertainment flows all through the day, so be ready with your lawn chairs and empty stomachs. Or, purchase your “Reserved Seating General Admission” ticket while they last, as only a limited supply will be available. Held at Collier County fairgrounds, 751 39th Avenue NE, Naples. Call 239-455-1444 for additional information. NEAPOLITANfamily • January 2015
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TRAVEL
By Helen Colella
Making spring break or summer vacation plans?
Dry Torgugas National Park Florida
Consider a visit to one of
America’s National Parks
F
amily size, ages of children, personal finances, and the general status of today’s economy have forced families to re-evaluate their lifestyles. One area under consideration for revamping is the family vacation. No matter what the size of your family or budget may be, vacation plans are not easy to make. Seems everyone has a different idea about where to go and what to do. Often the destination selected turns out to be a highly publicized theme park, renting a cottage at the beach or visiting another country. These ideas, most of which don’t meet the needs of every family member, often wind up being expensive. What options do you have? Where is there to go? How can a family take a nice vacation, stay within a budget and keep everyone happy? The answer is simple: Visit a national park.
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Whether you can manage a day, a long weekend, a full week or more, you and your family can have a wonderful vacation. All you need is to be open for adventure, be daring enough to explore and discover and want to have fun. Then no matter which national park you choose to visit, you and the whole family will find a variety of experiences in which to participate, enjoy and never forget.
Use your imagination. What IF you and your family had the opportunity to: • Hike or bike the miles of trails that span rolling hills, flat lands, rugged terrain or steep inclines. • Take a nature walk, observe wildlife, learn about the ecosystem, or just enjoy the clean fresh air. • Climb rocks, rapel mountainsides or search caverns deep within the earth’s
surface. • Swim with exotic fish, explore coral reefs or dive for sunken treasure. • Snow ski in deep powdery snow or water ski across crystal clear lakes. • Sail a boat, paddle a canoe or kayak or go white water rafting down a river. • Admire the natural scenery of mountain or volcanic formations, green meadows, colorful flowers, desert blossoms, waterfalls, crystal clear lakes, sprouting geysers, shifting sand dunes, coral reefs, seawalls and underground caverns. • Observe wildlife like mammals, reptiles, amphibians, insects, spiders and birds all living in harmony. This is all possible and during the right season, all these activities and more are available at one of America’s national parks in NEAPOLITANfamily • January 2015
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our state, in one nearby or one that calls for travel plans. National parks are special land areas set aside by the government for all people to enjoy, appreciate and preserve. Mountains to seaside, desert to rainforest, each park is special, has its own identity, focuses on the natural world in its own special way, and offers information about the history, geography, culture and heritage of the area surrounding its location. Land formations, water supplies, animals, plants, mineral resources, land development and the climate all creates the appropriate environment and highlights the uniqueness of each park. Over the years national parks have grown in number to fifty-nine, 57 of which are found throughout the United States, the American Samoa and the Virgin Island. America’s national parks have been set aside to give us pleasure and protect our natural, historical and cultural heritage. Nothing but adventure awaits you and your family. So, as you consider a visit to one of America’s National Parks, keep in mind the words of naturalist, John Muir: “Everybody needs beauty as well as bread, places to play in and pray in, where nature may heal and cheer and give strength to the body and soul.”
Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Tennessee For detailed National Park information contact: National Park Service Headquarters Robert Stanton, Director National Park Service 1849 C Street NW Washington, DC 20240 Phone: (202) 208-6843 website: www.nps.gov
For a great fun filled learning tool, to use on your visit to a National Parks, check Amazon.com for EXPLORE & DISCOVER NATIONAL PARKS: A Family Activity Guidebook. HELEN COLELLA writes about travel for a variety of regional and national parenting magazines.
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HEALTH & FITNESS
W
By Andrea Breznay
alking is the perfect exercise according to many health experts. Plus, it’s a great way for the entire family to be active and spend quality time together. You don’t need special equipment beyond quality walking shoes and a bottle of water. Add a pedometer if possible – kids will enjoy using it to measure the walks and you can track your walks to see how many miles you log weekly. According to the American Heart Association, walking just 30 minutes a day can help you: • Reduce the risk of coronary heart disease • Improve blood pressure and blood sugar levels • Improve blood lipid profile • Maintain body weight and lower the risk of obesity • Enhance mental well being • Reduce the risk of osteoporosis • Reduce the risk of breast and colon cancer • Reduce the risk of non-insulin dependent (type 2) diabetes When you walk as a family, the benefits multiply. Walking together offers quality, uninterrupted time with your spouse and children. It’s time to connect with your children and may be the opening you need for meaningful, organic conversation about important topics. It’s also an opportunity for parents to set a fitness example for their children. You can certainly walk around your neighborhood and on most evenings, that may be the default. But if you have a little more time and want to venture out of your comfort zone, try one of these Naples-area options.
1.
North Collier Regional Park. The park has an elevated boardwalk through the wetlands preserve area and a two-and-a-halfmile paved walking trail that winds around the large lake and through the park. A huge bonus is that dogs on leash are welcome. There is no charge to use the trails and parking is plentiful. Bathrooms, water fountain and vending machines are available in the gymnasium. 15000 Livingston Road, Naples (239) 252-4000 www.colliergov.net/index.aspx?page=2654
2.
Delnor Wiggins State Park. Naples has more than a few beaches to walk but the best may be Delnor Wiggins State Park. There is a fee to enter but in return you’ll find a pristine beach with shells galore. Park your car at the end of the lot and walk south for 30 minutes or more and then head back. The kids will enjoy gathering shells and spotting wildlife. Time your walk to catch the prettiest sunset in town. An easy nature trail with an observation tower rising over the mangroves is at the far end of the parking area. Vending
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machines and restrooms available. There is also a snack bar with limited hours. 11135 Gulfshore Dr., Naples (239) 597-6196 www.floridastateparks.org/delnorwiggins
Naples Zoo and Conservancy of Southwest Florida’s parking lots. The trails are wide enough for parents pushing baby carriages and dogs on leashes are welcome. (239) 262-0015 www.gordonrivergreenway.org
3.
Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary. Corkscrew Swamp is a great choice for a weekend visit when you have lots of time to walk and explore. The 2.25 mile boardwalk takes you through pine flatwoods, wet prairie, around a marsh and finally into the largest old growth Bald Cypress forest in North America. The forest is also home to hundreds of alligators, otters, white-tailed deer, red-bellied turtles and a wide variety of birds. The fee is $12 for adults, $4 for children. A family membership is just $75 and offers unlimited visits for the entire family. (239) 348-9151 375 Sanctuary Road West, Naples http://corkscrew.audubon.org
5.
Vineyards Boulevard. If you’re in the mood for an easy walk on a pretty stretch of pavement, Vineyards Boulevard is perfect. The walk from the parking lot at Vineyards Park to Pine Ridge Road and back
4.
Gordon River Greenway. The Gordon River Greenway is open from sunrise to 10:00 p.m. and offers walkers a scenic, paved trail through mangroves along the Gordon River. The public can access the Greenway at parking area off Golden Gate Parkway (just Planet Tails NF Ad - FOR PRINT.pdf east of Goodlette-Frank Road), and at the
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is approximately 4.5 miles. The sidewalk is wide and shaded so if the kids don’t want to walk they can ride their bicycles or scooters. There are restrooms and water fountains at the park. If you’d prefer a shorter walk, walk the path around the lake within the park for 30 minutes or so. Vineyards Park 6231 Arbor Boulevard West, Naples (239) 353-9669
6.
Pepper Ranch Preserve. Another weekend walk, Pepper Ranch Preserve is open Friday-Sunday from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. A 45-minute drive from Naples, Pepper Ranch is an important historical site in Collier County. Home to a variety of animals and plants, Pepper Ranch is also filled with hiking trails that range from easy and short to long and advanced. You can hike, picnic, bird-watch and take a scenic drive through the preserve after obtaining a free daily use permit from the visitor’s center. Public restrooms are available at the ranch. Check the website before making plans because the Preserve is closed some weekends during hunting season. 6315 Pepper Road, Immokalee (239) 657-1999 www.colliergov.net
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GIVING BACK
By Kerrie McLoughlin
Giving Back By Giving Blood T here are countless stories told by people who have been helped by a blood donor they will never meet. Many of these stories include lives being saved by a one-time blood transfusion during childbirth, surgery, an accident or for so many other reasons. Other stories are of people who needed regular blood transfusions, including pediatric cancer patients who would not be alive today without this amazing gift of blood. In fact, “it is estimated that nine out of ten people who live to age 70 will require a blood transfusion,” according to NCH Healthcare System in Naples. Remarkably, just one pint of blood can save up to three lives, says the American Red Cross. January is National Blood Donor month and the perfect time to start thinking about giving blood and/or plasma on a regular basis. Starting when my kids were young, my husband and I would take them to our local blood donation center so they could see their dad giving blood. Since then, they have been eager to hit the required blood donor age and are excited at the idea of helping to save lives. Why not take your child with you to see the blood donation process so you can get him used to the idea and take the mystery out of it? There are several requirements that you must meet to be able to donate whole blood, platelets, plasma or double red cells. For example, you must be in good health, be at least 17 years of age (some states allow blood donation at age 16 with parental consent) and weigh at least 110 pounds. You will be asked a number of questions during an interview in
a private room before being allowed to donate blood. There will be questions about your health history and about places you may have traveled or lived. Your pulse, blood pressure and temperature will be taken, as well as a small blood sample from your finger to check your hemoglobin levels. You are permitted to donate on the following schedule: • Whole blood every 56 days, this is so your body has time to replenish its own supply. • Platelets every 7 days, up to 24 times
GIVING BLOOD IN NAPLES The Community Blood Center, an affiliate of the NCH Healthcare System, supplies hospitals in Collier County with life-saving blood products. When a donor gives the blood at any of the Community Blood Center locations in Naples, Bonita Springs or on the blue and white Community Blood Center bloodmobiles, he or she is helping to ensure adequate levels of blood products are available in area hospitals and ready for local patients, friends or family who suddenly need them. For more information including a list of the bloodmobile sites for January, check www.nchmd.org or call (239) 624-4120. 44
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per year. Plasma every 28 days. Double red cells every 112 days. Your regular blood donation should only take about 10 minutes total and you get to relax during that time and chat, read, or even sometimes watch television. When you’re done, you will be taken to a snack area so you can have cookies and juice and rest for a bit. Don’t do anything too strenuous for the rest of the day. In giving just a pint of your blood you have just helped to save one or more lives! Even though your child is probably too young to donate blood, one way to get your child involved is by hosting a blood drive at your work, church or child’s school or daycare. Simply contact your local blood center and find out how you can get the Bloodmobile to come to your location and then publicize it beforehand to get as many donors there as possible. • •
KERRIE MCLOUGHLIN blogs at TheKerrieShow.com and is married to a man who donates his O negative blood on a regular basis. Sources: American Red Cross: www.redcrossblood.org/learn-about-blood NEAPOLITANfamily • January 2015
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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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