Neapolitan Family January 2023

COMPLIMENTARY

ON VIEW NOW!

Immerse yourself in this exhibition featuring the plants and animals that inspired one of the world’s most iconic artists.

Supported by:

Artemis Nowlin is 14 months old and the daughter of Casey and Amanda Nowlin. Casey is the pastor of Family Church on Marco Island. Amanda is a registered nurse, and currently working as a stay-at-homemom while also homeschooling their four children. Artemis is adored and protected by her older brothers: Elias (8), Linkin (7), and Hudson (5). She currently enjoys snack time, bike rides with mom, and destroying her brothers’ Lego creations.

Cover photo by Monica Alvarez www.monicaalvarezphotography.com 305-815-3495 info@monicaalvarezphotography.com

10 Co-parenting. Parent coordinators can make co-parenting easier by Dale Klaus and Reuben Doupé. 12 Why Choose Catholic School? Five reasons parents select Catholic schools 14 Nap Know-How. Tips for getting your little ones to rest. by Sarah Lyons 18 Cover Kids 2023 Meet our newest cover models!

22 Mental Health. How to talk with your loved ones about mental health, and how to provide support. by Jessica Liria

24 Destination Racing. Check out how local moms combine running, travel, and family time by Anna Snyder

26 For the Animals. Meet a Naples 11-year-old who is running her own nonprofit to help local animals. by Andrea Stetson

28 Embrace the Quirks. Discover the world’s largest potato, a biblicallycorrect 2,000-ton ark, and a 40foot biologically correct lobster by Karen T. Bartlett

Find Answers at Help Me Grow

provider. Help Me Grow can be that support to identify any concerns and gather the necessary resources to get parents and children the help they need.

If your child is struggling, help is available. With Help Me Grow in Collier, Glades, Hendry, and Lee counties, families have access to free phone-based screenings and assessments that can identify developmental delays and disabilities. We also take our support a step further by offering families tools and resources to help their child thrive — all at no cost to the families.

Are you the parent of a child under the age of 8? Do you sometimes question your child’s behavior or developmental skills? Or maybe you’ve compared your child’s behavior to a sister or brother or schoolmate and wondered if they are acting ageappropriate? Help Me Grow is a free telephone-based program that can help you get answers!

We can help you recognize important developmental milestones for your child’s first eight years –everything from smiling, sitting, and walking, to talking, playing, and how they move and behave. We have all heard that “Kids don’t come with instructions manuals.” Help Me Grow offers a professional and empathetic ear and a network of resources to get the answers you need.

Take Iranna, for example. Iranna, a young, first-time mom, made a phone call to Help Me Grow because she had concerns about her 2-year-old daughter. Her daughter was eating things that were

not food, screaming a lot, not talking like other children the same age, and flapping her hands out of frustration. Our Help Me Grow Care Coordinator listened to Iranna’s concerns and ran through a series of developmental and behavioral screenings to better assess what Iranna was observing. The Care Coordinator explained the results of the screens, identified concerns that could impede her daughter’s development, and provided referrals for local resources that could provide the therapies and treatment she needed. In addition, Iranna received parenting tips, information on sensory integration, and milestone materials to monitor her child as she progresses. The Care Coordinator followed up to ensure Iranna’s daughter was successfully connected to services and that she was getting the support needed.

Just like Iranna, parents sometimes question a behavior and then “wait to see” or maybe the busyness of everyday life prevents them from scheduling an appointment with a healthcare

Early identification of developmental and behavioral concerns is important, and early intervention can have a significant impact on a child’s ability to learn new skills. If you have questions or concerns about your child’s growth, behavior or learning, we can help you get answers.

If you know a parent or caregiver who might benefit from Help Me Grow, encourage them to contact (239) 425-6920; they can also call 2-1-1 and ask for Help Me Grow; or connect to Help Me Grow by completing a milestone checklist on our website at www.healthystartbaby. org.

We know early intervention is key to helping children achieve their highest level of success. And that’s what we all want for all of our community’s children.

Help Me Grow of Collier, Lee, Hendry, and Glades is a program of Healthy Start Coalition of Southwest Florida. It is sponsored by the Children’s Forum and the State of Florida, Division of Early Learning, United Way of Lee, Hendry, and Glades and Naples Children & Education Foundation, founders of the Naples Winter Wine Festival.

P.O. Box 110656 Naples, FL 34108 info@neafamily.com

Co-Publisher

Stacy Nicolau snicolau@neafamily.com 239-370-5333

Co-Publisher Leigh Ann Newman lanewman@neafamily.com 239-272-0529

Travel Editor

Karen T. Bartlett mostlykidsguides@gmail.com 239-595-9026

Digital Editor

Emily Brockelsby Feature Writers Anna Snyder Andrea Stetson

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 that is fraudulent or misleading in nature. Neapolitan Family is available free of charge at distribution points throughout Collier County, as well as digitally at https://neafamily.com. Neapolitan Family is ©2023 by Neapolitan Family Publishing LLC. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part without written permission is strictly prohibited.

Member of

from the publisher…

THIS MONTH The New Year

The holiday season used to be just a brief break from work and school in December to celebrate with our family and friends. If you think about it, though, the “holiday season” really starts about mid-October with fall festivals and Halloween events, slides through Thanksgiving, and culminates in a full frenzy of events, performances, and parties ending Jan. 1.

It’s no wonder we are all exhausted.

January is a great time for a nap (or two) and getting the entire family back on a better sleep routine. On page 14, Sarah Lyons has tips for parents of nappers of all ages, so that the whole family can have some peace and quiet.

January also is a perfect time to focus on the mental health of ourselves and our loved ones. Jessica Liria from the David Lawrence Centers gives us tips on page 22 on how to normalize conversations about mental health and how to find the right support.

If one of your New Year’s resolutions is to start running, learn how local moms have discovered destination racing, which combines running, travel, and family time, on page 24.

Whether your travel plans in 2023 include running or not, be sure to check out Karen T. Bartlett’s list of quirkiest roadside attractions, on page 28, to enjoy along the way to your destination.

Finally, we would like to introduce our 2023 Cover Kids Winners, on page 18, starting with our January cover girl, Artemis Nowlin, who is starting her new year off healthy and happy with her bright red apple.

Happy New Year,

For Goodness Cakes Expansion Brings Birthdays to Kids in Naples

Anational nonprofit that matches volunteers to bake and handdeliver birthday and graduation cakes to children in foster care and underprivileged youths has opened a new chapter in Naples. For Goodness Cakes’ 5,000 volunteers and 450 partner agencies

have delivered more than 12,000 cakes nationwide, ensuring that kids and young adults feel recognized, celebrated, and loved on their special day.

“We believe that every child deserves to celebrate their special day, and by partnering agencies and shelters with volunteer bakers, we have created a wonderful system to help ‘spread love, joy, and frosting’ to at-promise kids,” said Jamie Lehman, co-founder of For Goodness Cakes.

Kids in foster care “aren’t used to having someone celebrate their birthdays, and they were so grateful to have a cake made just for them,” explained Beth Ryan, executive director of Stepping Forward LA, an organization that helps young adults transition out of foster care.

“I am thrilled to continue the wonderful work that For Goodness Cakes has started in other parts of the country and bring the ‘spread love, joy, and frosting’ motto to Naples,” said Daniela Calciano, leader of the Naples chapter. “Birthdays are a privilege denied to many. I believe that each and everyone’s birthday should be acknowledged and celebrated!”

Volunteer registration is open, and all skill levels are welcome, at www.forgoodnesscakes.org/volunteer. Volunteers bake and deliver the cakes based on their own schedule. The chapter also is looking to partner with other nonprofit agencies. To become a partner agency, visit www.forgoodnesscakes.org/become-a-partner.

Visit www.forgoodnesscakes.org/naples-fl.

Photo courtesy of

Friends of Foster Children Students Set Record-Breaking Grad Rate

Students who participated in the Friends of Foster Children Forever’s tutoring program have achieved a 100% high school graduation rate, far outpacing both local and national graduation rates.

Collier County Public Schools recently announced that the graduation rate for all district high school seniors in foster care was a record-breaking 78%, exceeding the national average of 50%. “Foster children are some of the most vulnerable children in our community. CCPS has two McKinney-Vento District liaisons who work with Friends of Foster Children to help these students succeed. We are proud to see foster kids at almost an 80% graduation rate. This is tremendous news,” said Kamela Patton, Ph.D., former CCPS superintendent.

“I cannot say enough good things about the quality of education through Collier County Public Schools,” said Ann Hughes, director of FFCF. “Our academic mentors work closely with the schools throughout Collier County to provide excellence in education. Clearly, all our hard work has paid off. Being this much higher than the national average is outstanding.”

On any given day there are more than 300 foster children in Collier County, who have been removed from their homes due to their parents’ abuse, neglect, or addiction. A child is placed with a family member whenever possible. If this is not an option, they are placed in a foster home or in group housing. But there are not enough foster homes in Collier County to accommodate the need. When a child is moved, they most often have to go to a new school, leaving behind siblings and friends, which can lead to isolation and depression. Each time a child is moved, they fall behind academically by an average of six months, compounding the obstacles they already face.

FFCF provides educational and enrichment programs for foster children, including: Ready for Kindergarten, which connects foster caregivers with funding to pay for early learning opportunities (ages 0-5); Academic Mentoring, which includes tutoring for students ages 5-18 with open and closed dependency cases; Thriving After Care and college scholarships for students ages 18-23 who are graduating from high school and transitioning out of the foster care system; Project Enrichment; assistance with summer camps, afterschool care, and sports; emergency supplies; and basic necessities. Visit www.friendsoffosterchildren.net or call 239-262-1808.

Parenting Coordinators Can Assist With Co-parenting

Many divorced parents get along well and can cooperate in the raising of their children, or at least reach a nonconfrontational middle ground. For some, however, getting along can be a challenge. It takes two people to be respectful to one another, but it takes only one person to cause a conflict. Sometimes the conflict is justified and the product of differing opinions or feelings on important issues, but other times it is fueled by reactive emotions or hurt feelings.

The court system is simply not designed to efficiently help parties who cannot get along or agree on how to co-parent their children. As a result, a few years ago the Florida legislature codified law regarding parent coordinators. The purpose of a parent coordinator is to facilitate dispute resolution between parents by educating and making recommendations. A parent coordinator must be a mental health professional, a licensed physician, or a lawyer. Most parent coordinators in Collier County are mental health professionals. A parent coordinator also must complete a mandated training course. The court must appoint someone to the role of a parent coordinator, either by the agreement of the parties

or upon motion and a hearing.

The parent coordinator does not represent either parent; rather they are a neutral third party. This allows them to speak directly to both parents when they are trying to resolve a dispute. The court also may give them the right to speak to the children, if necessary, to assist the parents in working out an issue. Most often, the parents already have a parenting plan in place, and the parent coordinator specifically is tasked with helping them carry out the terms in the parenting plan and resolving any complications or difficulties that arise. Further, all communications with the parent coordinator are confidential.

In our experience, the success of parent coordination depends highly on the willingness of the parents. If everyone buys in and accepts the advice, information, and counsel of the parent coordinator with the goal of solving problems and avoiding future conflict, then the process of parent coordination can be very successful. These types of parents will likely find that their need for the parent coordinator will lessen over time and eventually end. Of course, at the other end of the spectrum are those that refuse to buy in to the system. There certainly will be some extremely high conflict cases that cannot improve even with the best efforts of the best parent coordinator.

Studies have shown that children will be negatively affected by continued and constant conflict between their parents after a divorce. A parent coordinator is one more potential tool for reducing conflict, and, therefore, improves the lives of both parents and children.

chtlegal.com.

Technology to Help You Co-parent

TalkingParents is an app that offers co-parents secure and accountable tools, such as Accountable Calling, Accountable Payments, Secure Messaging, and Shared Calendar. Plus, all of the actions taken in the app are recorded, and those records are unalterable.

After you download the app, you will create an account, and then either be matched with your co-parent, or they are sent a match request. Then TalkingParents will help you manage custody schedules and appointments, keep track of expenses and payments, create a file with important information like allergies and day care hours, and message securely with your co-parent. Visit www.talkingparents.com.

Learning Opportunities Blast Off at CCPS STEAM Expo in January

Get ready to take an adventure into space and beyond! Collier County Public Schools’ annual STEAM Expo is set to “blast off ” on the campus of Gulf Coast High School on Saturday, Jan. 28.

“The STEAM Expo has a theme this year,” explained Lindy George, Instructional Technology TSA for CCPS. “We are focused on space and space exploration. We actually have an alumnus who graduated in 2003 from Naples High School and is now a flight director in Houston, so we’re really excited to welcome him back for this event.”

A CCPS success story, Elias Myrmo is one of the newest flight directors to oversee operations of the International Space Station, commercial crew, and Artemis missions to the moon. He’ll be a special guest at Saturday’s event.

“It’s always important to provide opportunities for our students to have new experiences in the area in STEM, or in our case STEAM – science, technology, engineering, arts, and math,” said George. “We hope students walk out thinking about

careers paths they may not have previously considered, high school programs available to them, or an interest that they maybe hadn’t experienced before.”

That is exactly what happened to Brandon Black, a 2013 graduate of Lely High School who now is working for the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s National Weather Service in Mobile, Alabama, as a meteorologist.

During his senior year of high school, Black decided to attend the STEAM Conference (now known as the STEAM Expo). It was there he met Reed Timmer, a meteorologist and storm chaser who happened to be the keynote speaker that year. Timmer, known for starring in the

Discovery Channel reality television series Storm Chasers, ignited a spark in Black, who was getting ready to head off to college. Years later, the two would reconnect at an event where Black, now a meteorologist himself, was presenting a session on extreme weather. It was an significant moment when they realized they had met previously.

Moments like these solidify the importance of the special events offered through CCPS. “Giving students the opportunity to have so many different experiences within one event – we never know what that could do,” added George.

For more information on the STEAM Expo, including how to register, visit www. collierschools.com/steamexpo.

Five Reasons Parents Choose a Catholic School Education

If you are considering private education options for your children, this is the perfect time to learn more about Catholic schools. National Catholic School Week is an annual celebration in late January of Catholic education in the United States. Sponsored by the National Catholic Educational Association, schools observe the week with open houses and other activities for students, families, parishioners, and community members.

Catholic schools aren’t limited to members of the Catholic Church. According to NCEA, one-fifth of the students at Catholic high schools nationwide are of other faiths.

Here are five reasons parents choose a Catholic school education for their children.

1. Morals and values. The Center for Applied Research in the Apostolate Institute at Georgetown University found that “strong moral values” is the top reason parents choose to send their children to a

Catholic school. Many of the parents who select a Catholic school want their child’s education at school to be an extension of what they are being taught at home. They are looking for influences on their child that mirror their religious beliefs and moral choices.

Parent Angela Savage chose a Catholic school education for her daughter for several reasons, including safety concerns and a desire to have a school that focuses on the entire child. Happy with her decision, Savage stated that “the consistent religious instruction and activities helped my daughter’s faith develop even in demanding situations.”

2. A strong religious foundation. Graduates of Catholic high schools statistically are more likely to continue church involvement as an adult. According to Our Greatest and Best Inheritance: Catholic Schools and Parental Choice (U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops), “Catholic school students are more likely to pray

–National Assessment of Educational Progress

daily, attend church more often, retain a Catholic identity as an adult, and donate more to the church.”

3. A sense of community. Families who have children in a parish school have an easier time developing a sense of community with their fellow parishioners. Opportunities for fellowship, friendship, and service are available for families and create a warm and welcoming community. For those who don’t have other family in the area, this can be especially important, and their church and school become an important social hub.

4. Affordability. Private school tuition can be expensive, but many Catholic schools and dioceses offer generous tuitionassistance programs for families who need help.

5. High-quality education. According to NCEA, 99% of Catholic secondary school students graduate and 88% go on to a four-year college. On national and standardized tests Catholic schools consistently outperform public schools, according to the National Assessment of Educational Progress.

Local Catholic schools

PK-8 • Royal Palm Academy www.royalpalmacademy.org • Saint Ann Catholic School www.stann.net • St. Elizabeth Seton Catholic School www.saintelizabethseton.com 9-12 • St. John Neumann High School PK-12 • Donahue Academy

On national and standardized tests Catholic schools consistently outperform public schools.

Nap Know-How

Have you ever seen the kids sleeping in strollers at the mall or even an amusement park, clearly not bothered by the noise or what is going on around them? Before I became a mother, I assumed getting a child to nap was as simple as giving them a space to rest.

A dozen years and six kids later, I have learned the hard way that it is rarely that simple. Naptime can be a battle between parent and child that leaves you feeling exhausted rather than rested. This leaves parents searching for suggestions to make things go more smoothly.

Tips for newborns

It is common for newborns to have their days and nights mixed up. The goal for this age is to help babies sleep more at night and take many short naps in between feedings during the day. Newborns need up to 16 hours of sleep per day, and it’s OK if they rest in their cribs, in the car, or in your arms. You cannot spoil a newborn baby with too many snuggles. Play and interact with your baby during daytime hours, and create quiet, restful times at night to encourage correct sleep patterns.

Tips for infants

At 3 months old, babies can sleep fiveto-six-hour stretches at night. This is a great time to start introducing a nap schedule. Consistency is key, and parents often have success by creating a routine. Turn down the lights, snuggle in the chair, read a book or sing a song, swaddle the baby, and lay them down while still awake but sleepy. Babies learn what to expect by routine, and when they start to recognize the bedtime cues they will begin to relax and prepare for naptime. During this stage babies typically take two naps per day. Some parents set their nap schedule by taking note of when the baby wakes up. Two to three hours later they start their naptime routine, followed by lunch or midday feeding and playtime. Similarly, the afternoon nap would follow two to three hours after the child wakes up from morning nap, followed by dinner or evening feeding, play, bath, and bedtime. The bedtime routine should be similar to the pre-naptime routine to create consistency. Once the naptime schedule and routine are established, continue to be consistent.

Tips for toddlers

Usually between 12 and 18 months, your child will begin to give up their morning nap. While this may worry some parents, it can be freeing. Moving to one long nap in the afternoon can give parents more freedom to explore activities in the morning with their child. Some parents may find that moving the afternoon nap to an earlier time as they make this transition may be easier for the child. If you prefer a later afternoon nap, begin moving the time by 15 minutes until you reach the time that works for you.

Tips for preschoolers

Most kids will give up naps between the age of 3 and 5 years old. As parents transition out of naps, providing a quiet time to rest is still very important as kids of all ages (and their caregivers) need downtime to recharge. Provide a quiet space either in their bedroom or a comfy chair for them to play quietly, read, listen to music, or watch a favorite show. Get the whole family to participate, including mom and dad. This may be a nap for some, reading a book for others, or drawing or journaling for some.

Naptime Disruptions & Solutions

Vacation. A strange space, a different bed, and a lack of routine can be a big disruption. Try to maintain the nap times and routine as closely as possible. Bring familiar blankets, stuffed animals, and books.

Sickness. When the baby doesn’t feel well the routine can quickly go out the window. Try to create as much balance as possible with your normal schedule, and make your child comfortable. When your child is back to normal, return to your regular nap routine and drop any new habits that have developed.

Busy day. If you have a lot of errands and appointments and miss naptime, do your best to give your child an opportunity to rest while you are out and also when you get home. Adjust bedtime if needed and return to the routine the next day.

Car nap. When your child falls asleep in the car, even if it’s only for 15 minutes, chances are they will wake up grouchy and will not take a nap again. Allow a quiet time for your child to rest, even if they aren’t sleeping. For a little one this may be putting them in their bed for a short time with quiet toys. For an older child, provide a quiet activity for them to work on.

OUT & ABOUT in January

1 SUNDAY

5:30 p.m. 47th Annual Holiday Nights Celebration. Thousands of lights, historic decorations, and more. Located at Edison and Ford Winter Estates, 2350 McGregor Blvd., Fort Myers. Call 239-334-7419 or check www.edisonfordwinterestates.org.

6 p.m. Johnsonville Night Lights in the Garden. Explore the garden illuminated by many thousands of lights, to the background of live music. Located at Naples Botanical Garden, 4820 Bayshore Dr., Naples. Check www.naplesgarden.org or call 239643-7275.

6 p.m. Magic of Lights. Drive-thru, holiday-themed light display. Located at Collier Fairgrounds, 751 39th Ave. N.E., Naples. Call 239-455-1444 or check www.magicoflights.com.

3 TUESDAY

10 a.m. Family Storytime. Every Monday. Stories, songs, and hands-on activities. Registration not required. Located at Immokalee Library, 417 N. First St., Immokalee. Call 239-2527073 or check www.collierlibrary.org.

1:30 p.m. Meet the Keeper Animal Show. Tuesdays and Thursdays. Learn all about the animals and more. Located at STEMLab at Miromar Outlets, 10801 Corkscrew Rd., Suite 192, Estero. Check www.miromaroutlets.com or call 239-948-3766.

5 THURSDAY

9 a.m. Open Play. For ages 6 months and older. Located at Mosaic Kids, 14700 Tamiami Tr. N., Naples. Call 239-631-2953 or check www.mosaic-kids.com

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3:30 p.m. Lego Club. Be creative, make new friends, and have fun. Bricks provided. Ages 5-11. Located at Marco Island Library, 210 S. Heathwood Dr., Marco Island. Call 239-252-7064 or check www.collierlibrary.org.

6 FRIDAY

10 a.m. Train Rides. Naples’ only outdoor train ride. Fridays and Saturdays through April. Located at Naples Lionel Train Museum, 401 10th St. S., Naples. Visit www.naplestrainmuseum.org.

7 SATURDAY

9 a.m. Free Zoo Admission for Collier Residents. Present qualifying ID for free entry on the first Saturday of the month. Located at Naples Zoo, 1590 Goodlette-Frank Rd., Naples. Call 239-315-7626 or check www.napleszoo.org.

10 a.m. Junior Storytime. Saturdays in the children’s section. Located at Barnes & Noble, 5377 Tamiami Tr., Naples. Visit www. barnesandnoble.com or call 239-598-5200.

11:30 a.m. & 5:30 p.m. Joseph and the Technicolor Dreamcoat. Select dates through Feb. 11. Located at Broadway Palm Dinner Theatre, 1380 Colonial Blvd., Fort Myers. Call 239278-4422 or visit www.broadwaypalm.com.

1:30 p.m. Family Initiative Welcomes Temple Grandin. Renowned autism activist Temple Grandin is appearing as part of the Redefining Autism speaker series. Located at Christ Community Church, 4050 Colonial Blvd., Fort Myers. Check www.fi-florida.org or email rfecteau@fi-florida.org.

2 p.m. Saturday Movie Matinee: Vivo. Rated PG. Located at Immokalee Library, 417 N. First St., Immokalee. Call 239-2527073 or check www.collierlibrary.org.

8 p.m. Family Comedy Night. Some of Southwest Florida’s best family-friendly comedy. This month’s theme is Sketch Comedy Located at the Naples Players, 701 Fifth Ave. S., Naples. Check www.naplesplayers.org or call 239-263-7990.

9 MONDAY

10 a.m., 11 a.m., & 2 p.m. Family Storytime. Ages 1-4. Stories and hands-on activities. Registration required. Located at Naples Regional Library, 650 Central Ave., Naples. Check www. collierlibrary.org or call 239-252-5135.

10:30 a.m. Baby Play. Explore sensory play with your baby. Ages birth to 18 months. Registration required. Located at South County Library, 21100 Three Oaks Pkwy., Estero. Call 239-5334400 or check www.leegov.com/library.

10:30 a.m. Family Storytime and Craft. Also Jan. 23 & 30. Stories, songs, and crafts. All ages. Located at Golden Gate Library, 2432 Lucerne Rd., Naples. Call 239-252-4549 or check www.collierlibrary.org

3:30 p.m. Kindness Club. Fun activities designed to encourage kindness. Ages 7-11. Registration required. Located at South County Library, 21100 Three Oaks Pkwy., Estero. Call 239-5334400 or check www.leegov.com/library.

10 TUESDAY

10 a.m. Miss Susan’s Toddler Storytime. Ages birth to 3 years. Stories, songs, and finger plays every week. Registration required; register for Tuesday or Wednesday. Located at Headquarters Library, 2385 Orange Blossom Dr., Naples. Call 239252-7370 or check www.collierlibrary.org.

4 p.m. Little Builders Build with Gears! Gears! Gears! Children build coordination while using their imaginations. Ages 3-13. Located at South Regional Library, 8065 Lely Cultural Pkwy., Naples. Call 239-252-7542 or check www.collierlibrary.org.

6 p.m. Teen: New Year, New You. Decorate your own journal. Ages 12-17. Supplies provided. Registration not required. Located at South County Library, 21100 Three Oaks Pkwy., Estero. Call 239533-4400 or check www.leegov.com/library.

11 WEDNESDAY

9 a.m. Safari Squad. Also Saturdays. Ages 1-4 with an adult. Animal encounter, storytime, art, and play stations. Located at Naples Zoo, 1590 Goodlette-Frank Rd., Naples. Check www. napleszoo.org or call 239-315-7626, ext. 158.

10 a.m. Toddler Storytime. Wednesdays and Thursdays. Stories, songs, and activities for ages 16-35 months. Located at Estates Library, 1266 Golden Gate Blvd. W., Naples. Call 239252-7109 or check www.collierlibrary.org.

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868 94th Ave. N. Naples, FL 34108

www.LittlePeoplesSchool.info

10:30 a.m. Preschool Storytime. Stories, activities, art project for ages 3-5. Located at Estates Library, 1266 Golden Gate Blvd. W., Naples. Call 239-252-7109 or check www.collierlibrary.org.

11 a.m. Miss Jen’s Preschool Storytime. Stories, songs, finger plays, and a themed craft each week. Registration required. Located at Headquarters Library, 2385 Orange Blossom Dr., Naples. Call 239-252-7370 or check www.collierlibrary.org.

12 THURSDAY

10:30 a.m. Jennifer’s Toddler/Preschool Storytime. Story, songs, rhymes, and fun activities. Registration not required. Located at Vanderbilt Beach Library, 788 Vanderbilt Beach Rd., Naples. Call 239-252-7370 or check www.collierlibrary.org.

4 p.m. Lego Fun. Ages 4-11. Share ideas, be creative, and have fun. Bricks provided. Registration not required. Located at Estates Library, 1266 Golden Gate Blvd. W., Naples. Call 239252-7109 or check www.collierlibrary.org.

6 p.m. The Artsy Evening. Ages 5-12. An evening of artmaking activities for kids while parents enjoy a night out. Registration required. Located at Naples Art, 585 Park St., Naples. Check www.naplesart.org or call 239-262-6517.

13 FRIDAY

9 a.m. School’s Out Day. Nature-based day program features fun, interactive, hands-on activities for kids. Located at Audubon’s Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary, 375 Sanctuary Rd., Naples. Call 239-348-9151, email deborah.lotter@audubon.org, or check www.corkscrew.audubon.org.

10:30 a.m. Family Storytime. Also Jan. 20 & 27. Stories, songs, and craft for all ages and caregivers. Located at Marco Island Library, 210 S. Heathwood Dr., Marco Island. Call 239252-7064 or check www.collierlibrary.org.

14 SATURDAY

Check website for times. Festival of Birds. Through Jan. 21. Guided field trips, workshops, classes, and more. Located at Rookery Bay, 300 Tower Rd., Naples. Call 239-530-5972 or check www.rookerybay.org.

9:30 a.m. Avow Kids Family Day at Naples Zoo. A funfilled day at the zoo. Located at Naples Zoo, 590 GoodletteFrank Rd., Naples. RSVP to avowkids@avowcares.org or 239261-4404.

11 a.m. Pups ‘n’ Books. Read to a dog or just pet one. Dogs are provided by Golden PAWS Assistance Dogs. All ages. Located at Naples Regional Library, 650 Central Ave., Naples. Check www.collierlibrary.org or call 239-252-5135.

11:30 a.m. All Star Monster Truck Tour. Also Sunday. Fun zone, monster truck rides, racing, and more. Located at Florida Sports Park, 8520 Rattlesnake Hammock Rd., Naples. Call 239774-2701 or check www.allstarmonster.com.

1 p.m. Mini Moo Petting Zoo. Experience goats, rabbits, chickens, and maybe a couple of surprises. Registration required. Located at Naples Regional Library, 650 Central Ave., Naples. Check www.collierlibrary.org or call 239-252-5135.

1 p.m. Year of the Rabbit: Dragon Dance. Celebrate the Year of the Rabbit by watching the Dragon Dance, and then join in. Located at Headquarters Library, 2385 Orange Blossom Dr., Naples. Call 239-252-7370 or check www.collierlibrary.org.

3 p.m. Pups ‘n’ Books. Read to a dog or just pet one. All ages. Registration not required. Located at Vanderbilt Beach Library, 788 Vanderbilt Beach Rd., Naples. Call 239-252-7160 or check www.collierlibrary.org.

15 SUNDAY

10 a.m. The Kids’ Club. Crafts, games, and fun for parents and kids under 12. Located at Naples Pride Center, 2248 Airport Rd. S., Naples. Check www.naplespride.org or call 239304-9407.

16 MONDAY

11 a.m. 26th Annual Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. 2023 Parade and Celebration. Parade begins at Broad Avenue South and ends on 8th Street South at Cambier Park. Check www.naplesgov.com.

17 TUESDAY

10 a.m. Family Storytime. Also Jan. 24 & 31. For ages birth to 5 years and caregivers. Stories, music, movement, and activities. Located at South County Library, 21100 Three Oaks Pkwy., Estero. Call 239-533-4400 or check www.leegov.com/library.

10:30 a.m. Family Storytime. Also Jan. 24 & 31. Stories, songs, and hands-on activities. Registration required. Located at South Regional Library, 8065 Lely Cultural Pkwy., Naples. Call 239-252-7542 or check www.collierlibrary.org.

4 p.m. Lego Crew. Share ideas, be creative, and have fun. Bricks provided. Ages 5-13. Located at South Regional Library, 8065 Lely Cultural Pkwy., Naples. Check www.collierlibrary.org or call 239-252-7542.

8 p.m. Disney’s Aladdin. Through Jan. 22. A new production filled with unforgettable beauty, magic, comedy, and spectacle. Located at Artis-Naples, 5833 Pelican Bay Blvd., Naples. Call 239-597-1900 or check www.artisnaples.org.

18 WEDNESDAY

10:30 a.m. Baby Rhyme Time. For birth to 18 months and caregivers. Stories, music, activities, and rhymes. Located at Bonita Springs Library, 10560 Reynolds St., Bonita Springs. Call 239533-4860 or check www.leegov.com/library.

4:30 p.m. Family Initiative Teen Hangout Group. Sixweek session for teenagers and young adults. Located at Family Initiative, 734 S.W. 4th St., Cape Coral. Visit www.fi-florida.org or email info@fi-florida.org.

19 THURSDAY

10 a.m. Preschool Storytime. Also Jan. 26. Ages 3-5. Reading, talking, singing, writing, and playing. Registration required. Located at South County Library, 21100 Three Oaks Pkwy., Estero. Check www.leegov.com/library or call 239-533-4400.

10:30 a.m. Family Storytime. Birth to 5 years and caregivers. Stories, music, movement, and activities. Located at Bonita Springs Library, 10560 Reynolds St., Bonita Springs. Call 239533-4860 or check www.leegov.com/library.

Scan

3:30 p.m. Game Night. Bring the family or a few friends to play a variety of fun and challenging games. All ages. Registration not required. Located at Immokalee Library, 417 N. First St., Immokalee. Call 239-252-7073 or check www.collierlibrary.org.

3:45 p.m. Art for Kids. Learn about art and do a special project. Registration required. Located at Golden Gate Library, 2432 Lucerne Rd., Naples. Call 239-252-4549 or check www.collierlibrary.org.

21 SATURDAY

9 a.m. Free Autism Screening. Free by appointment only. Designed for children ages 1-3. Screening does not provide a diagnosis. Located at Family Initiative, 734 S.W. 4th St., Cape Coral. Register at info@fi-florida.org.

1:30 p.m. Pups ‘n’ Books. Read to a dog or just pet one. Dogs are provided by Golden PAWS Assistance and Therapy Dogs. All ages. Registration is not required. Located at Headquarters Library, 2385 Orange Blossom Dr., Naples. Call 239-2527369 and www.collierlibrary.org.

2 p.m. Build It: Cardboard. Drop in for building challenges the whole family will enjoy. All materials provided. Located at South County Library, 21100 Three Oaks Pkwy., Estero. Check www.leegov.com/library or call 239-533-4400.

2 p.m. Fuse Beading. Create a star, horse, flower, and other fun shapes. All ages. Located at Immokalee Library, 417 N. First St., Immokalee. Call 239-252-7073 or check www.collierlibrary.org.

2 p.m. Saturday Matinee – Thor: Love and Thunder. Rated PG-13. Located at Naples Regional Library, 650 Central Ave., Naples. Check www.collierlibrary.org or call 239-252-5135.

23 MONDAY

10 a.m. Tiny Tots Yoga. Gentle movement, stretches, poses, and songs. Ages birth to 5 years with a caregiver. No experience required. Located at South County Library, 21100 Three Oaks Pkwy., Estero. Check www.leegov.com/library or call 239-5334400.

24 TUESDAY

4 p.m. Little Engineers Design and Build. Build with blocks, movable wheels, nuts, bolts, and more. Ages 5-13. Located at South Regional Library, 8065 Lely Cultural Pkwy., Naples. Call 239-252-7542 or check www.collierlibrary.org.

5:30 p.m. Exceptional Night. For children with autism and other sensory integration disorders or other disabilities. Located

here a for even more family-friendly events.

X

SATURDAY MOVIE MATINEE

NAPLES LIBRARY

650 CENTRAL AVE., NAPLES

at Children’s Museum of Naples, 15080 Livingston Rd., Naples. Check www.cmon.org or call 239- 514-0084.

239-252-5135 • WWW.COLLIERLIBRARY.ORG

25 WEDNESDAY

Hotel Transylvania 3, rated PG. Registration not required. Saturday, Oct. 1, 2-4 p.m.

10:30 a.m. Baby Rhyme Time. For birth to 18 months and caregivers. Stories, music, activities, and rhymes. Located at Bonita Springs Library, 10560 Reynolds St., Bonita Springs. Call 239533-4860 or check www.leegov.com/library.

X PRESCHOOL NOT-SO-SCARY HALLOWEEN PARTY

SOUTH COUNTY REGIONAL LIBRARY 21100 THREE OAKS PKWY., ESTERO 239-533-4400 • WWW.LEEGOV.COM/LIBRARY

6 p.m. Art After Hours. Live music and free admission makes for a fun evening for all ages. Located at Artis-Naples, 5833 Pelican Bay Blvd., Naples. Call 239-597-1900 or check www.artisnaples.org.

Spooktacular stories, songs, and crafts. Wear your costume for a parade inside the library. Ages 3-5. Wednesday, Oct. 12, 10:30-11:30 a.m.

26 THURSDAY

X HALLOWEEN MAGIC WITH JOEY EVANS

SOUTH COUNTY REGIONAL LIBRARY 21100 THREE OAKS PKWY., ESTERO 239-533-4400 • WWW.LEEGOV.COM/LIBRARY

10:30 a.m. Family Storytime. Birth to 5 years and caregivers. Stories, music, movement, and activities. Located at Bonita Springs Library, 10560 Reynolds St., Bonita Springs. Call 239533-4860 or check www.leegov.com/library.

Spooky magic, mystery, and fun. Ages 6-11. Registration is required. Saturday, Oct. 15, 10-11 a.m.

27 FRIDAY

6 p.m. Kids’ Night Out. Ages 5-11. Games, activities, dinner, and a movie. Registration required. Located at Donna Fiala Eagle Lakes Community Park, 11565 Tamiami Tr. E., Naples. Call 239252-3527 or check www.collierparks.com.

X PRE-READERS SPOOKY DANCE PARTY

BONITA SPRINGS PUBLIC LIBRARY 10560 REYNOLDS STREET, BONITA SPRINGS 239-533-4860 • WWW.LEEGOV.COM/LIBRARY

6:45 p.m. Ghost Walk. Also on Saturday. Stroll along candlelit pathways as you see and hear the Koreshans tell their stories. Reservations required. $25 for adults; $12.50 for kids 12 and under. Located at Koreshan State Park, 3800 Corkscrew Rd., Estero. Visit www.friendsofkoreshan.org/Ghost-Walk.

239-513-6999

NEAPOLITANfamily • October 2022

28 SATURDAY

10 a.m. 74th Annual Swamp Buggy Parade. Parade starts on U.S. 41 near Coastland Center Mall in Naples. Check www. swampbuggy.com.

10 a.m. Lego and Moontoy Fun. For ages 3-11. Located at Naples Regional Library, 650 Central Ave., Naples. Check www. collierlibrary.org or call 239-252-5135.

2 p.m. National Lego Day. Celebrate at the library! Bricks are provided, so let your imagination run wild. All ages. Located at Immokalee Library, 417 N. First St., Immokalee. Check www. collierlibrary.org or call 239-252-7073.

29 SUNDAY

10 a.m. Saint Ann Catholic School Open House. Tour the facilities, meet teachers, and much more. RSVP to Tracy Farley at 239-262-4110, x224, or tfarley@stann.net. Located at Saint Ann Catholic School, 542 8th Ave. S., Naples. Check www.stann.net.

10 a.m. St. Elizabeth Seton Catholic School Open House. Join us to learn what our school can offer your child. RSVP to office@seseton.org or 239-455-2262. Located at St. Elizabeth Seton Catholic School, 2730 53rd Terrace S.W., Naples. Check www.saintelizabethseton.com.

How to Address Mental Health Concerns and Provide Support

Recognizing the signs that someone is experiencing challenges with a mental health concern is part of what can be a complicated puzzle. How we put the rest of the pieces in place determines how effective the outcome will be. Here are some tips to consider to when addressing concerns and providing meaningful support:

Find a comfortable setting. As we approach someone to discuss the things we have noticed, or the concerns we have, it is important to find the right time and place. Finding a quiet, neutral setting allows for more open discussion without the added stress of others listening in on the conversation. Speaking to the person

in private lessens the potential for feelings of embarrassment; however, we also want to ensure the location is not intimidating or causing discomfort.

Remove judgment. Spend time thinking through what you want to say, and how you want to say it before the conversation takes place. Even when we feel there is no bias or influence in our words, our tone of voice or body language may convey a different message. Ensure all channels of communication align when speaking, but remember, being an active listener may take even more attention and focus. Avoid interruptions, distractions, and assumptions. After discussing your

concerns, provide support by understanding the person and their experience without judgment.

Provide hope. It is not realistic to think that you will have all the answers or be able to solve all the problems, but you can offer reassurance and hope. Telling someone what they should do, or giving advice, is not always wanted or helpful. Statements like “You are not alone in this, I want to help…” or “We can get through this; let’s talk about what we can do…” Show that you care and are ready to assist. Validating how someone feels further assures them that it is OK if they are not feeling OK – “It is understandable to be hurt after something

like that happens,” or “It is natural to feel this way after an experience like that.”

Explore options. Brainstorm what may help in the short term and in the long term. Offering hope and compassion may make someone feel better in that moment, but exploring strategies, like coping skills and self-care, to be used if the same feelings come up again, can allow the person to see there are many ways to get through challenges. Perhaps there are also things you can do together, like meeting for walks or joining a community group. Professional means of care also are worth discussing. There is a world of treatment professionals, many with specialized skills to meet individual needs: therapists, psychiatrists, peer specialists, substance use counselors, and more.

Know the resources. Each community is equipped with a variety of localized resources to provide needs like food, shelter, medical care, financial assistance, and more. Many factors may be contributing to mental health challenges. By meeting those basic needs first, a person may be more willing and able to focus on their mental well-being. Research what your community has available, and stay informed on these valuable services. In Collier County, download Collier CARES, a mobile app with an abundance of resources that can be filtered by category and location. Or you can visit www.colliercares.org.

David Lawrence Centers for Behavioral Health has a comprehensive continuum of care from prevention to crisis services. When immediate support is needed, the Emergency Services Assessment Center is available 24/7, 365 days a year. Call 239-455-8500.

Four Ways to Start a Conversation About Mental Health

By Jessica Liria, M.S.

1. Take advantage of opportunities around you.

Utilize the present moment to talk about what is happening in front of you. As you and your family are watching TV or listening to the radio, talk about what you are seeing and hearing. How does it make you feel? How is someone with a mental health concern portrayed? What could you do if encountering a similar situation in real life? Being open to these discussions, and encouraging others to do the same, helps to reduce stigma and raise awareness.

2. Share what you learn and educate others. We all know the value in “word of mouth.” Having a desire to educate yourself on important topics not only will strengthen your intellectual wellness, but passing that information along will benefit others as well. We all can play an active role in prioritizing mental health in our community. By sharing a statistic, an available resource, or common concern, you are shining the light on a national challenge.

3. Let others know you care. We often have no idea what the people around us are going through on a day-to-day basis, and simple acts of kindness can make all the difference in their day. Whether it is a loved one, a friend, or a complete stranger, there are things we can do to show they are noticed. Offering a kind smile, holding open a door, or letting someone merge into traffic are small things we can always do. Other days may require us to dig deeper: “How are you feeling today?” “Is there anything I can do help?” “I notice you seem sad. Would you like to talk?”

4. Have the courage to talk about you. Our society is at a pivotal point where we can overcome the negativity surrounding mental health just as we did with many physical illnesses. Internalizing emotions can lead us to being guarded and pushing others away. This intensifies those feelings, and we can begin to feel isolated and alone. It can be a challenge to face our emotions, and talking about them can be even more difficult; however, confiding in others and asking for help can bring connection, compassion, and comfort.

At the Corner of Running & Travel

Is Destination Racing for You?

Over the past 25 years, my relationship with running has gone from contentious to addictive, and all manner of emotions and sensibilities in between. High highs, low lows – there and back again, and again. But during the past decade, I’ve found a gloriously balanced running philosophy – understanding and appreciating it for what it is physically, mentally, and spiritually – and I enjoy my running habit much more now. When I think about the runs I’ve taken the past decade, I easily transport myself to some of the sweetest hours of my life – early mornings alone in my old neighborhood, summertime at the park in my Midwestern hometown, winter light night runs in Victoria Park, and all the sweaty weekday mornings pushing the stroller while simultaneously passing snacks to my demanding little deary. I also think about the many races I’ve run in Naples with my dear friends who are my family, and seeing our town with fresh eyes again and again.

Destination racing

The practice of running encourages participants to encounter their towns on a regular basis through local races. In Naples, our local races build tradition, commitment to a culture of wellness, and relationships among runners. But, endurance sports also challenge us to look outside of our local confines to find new experiences, new routes, and new environments, which explains the growing popularity of destination racing. Traveling to participate in races gives structure and purpose to vacations. For runners, races are intense, personal, memorable, and emotional. Races heighten travel and tether us to places in an irrevocable way.

My friend James Berry sought just this type of experience. Having grown up in Portland, Oregon, he had always wanted to participate in Hood to Coast, the so-called “mother of all relays,” taking runners on a 200-mile route from Mount Hood through Portland and on to the coast of Oregon. Berry planned to put together a team of 12 participants (each running three times, about 16 miles total), but pandemic travel restrictions threw a wet blanket over his vision. In spring 2022, Berry reignited his dream, appealing to his SWFL friends to complete this 36-hour relay. After weeks of effort, he came up one runner short. I had responded “no” several times until he cornered me at a kid’s birthday party. With my husband’s resounding support of “Sounds fun. She can do whatever she wants,” I reluctantly agreed. And, I’m so thankful I did.

Facing

(L-R):

Hood to Coast meant everything to me. It was intense, difficult, emotional – a high-level experience I relive often. I flew to Portland in horrible physical condition, having just had a second bout of COVID in late summer and then immediately beginning a full-time teaching job after eight years as a stay-athome mom. I hadn’t run in two months. Six of us flew across the country to be “Van 2” of the 12-person team and spent five

Photos, above: Haydee Staebell with husband, Travis, and daughters, June (front) and Brooke, following Haydee’s finish at the 7 Mile Bridge Run in Marathon

page

Author Anna Snyder, Karen Chancy, Monica Meistrell, Adam Meistrell, James Berry, and Jenna Berry after the team completed the Hood to Coast 36-hour relay in Hood, Oregon, last year.

Photos courtesy of Anna Snyder

days running, stinking up a mini-van, exploring Portland on electric bikes, grabbing junk food from gas stations, and swimming in the Pacific. The running part challenged me: I ran my three legs in the hot sun, in the middle of the night with gleaming animal eyes staring at me from the rural woods, and on a rainy coastal morning, sleepdeprived, anxious, and yet, stumbling forward. I struggled; I cried; I laughed until I almost wet my pants. I collected adventures and experienced a new place in an intimate way. The trip further cemented my relationships with friends who are my family. I loved every moment.

Zero expectations in Colorado

Others in SWFL experience this sense of longing for adventure. Matthew Reedy, a Naples running coach, author, and owner of Rhino Running, a personalized training organization for runners, takes a group of runners to Colorado each year for the Leadville Trail Marathon and Heavy Half, an intense trail race up and down a 13,000-foot pass. “The mountains are a great contrast to our beaches, and the races in Leadville demand a different type of training due to elevation and terrain,” Reedy said.

The beautiful location, small town, and easy access to a major airport make the logistics effortless. “The race also comes with zero expectations due to the elevation and course characteristics. No other race compares, and that’s freeing for runners,” he explained. I asked him why so many people seek out destination races. “People are attracted to them because it gives them relief and the opportunity to relax after a period of intense training. It offers a greater reward. Traveling to races also allows runners to bring family members – it’s not just about the individual racing; it’s something the whole family can enjoy.”

A family affair

Haydee Staebell, a local mom of two, seeks adventure and makes destination racing a part of her annual rhythm. She always includes her family in the fun, and mostly sticks to races in and around Florida, such as the Gator River Run and the Run with Donna Marathon in Jacksonville, the Islamorada Half Marathon, and the 7 Mile Bridge Run in Marathon.

“I love cities that are beautiful and fun, and we often explore the surrounding areas,” Staebell said. “I seek races in historic places that are kid-friendly. I love racing, and I love experiencing new towns; it’s a great opportunity to do those two things at once.”

a Naples

of three,

parts of the country. “I love majestic natural scenery, and I look for races with multiple distances so other family members can compete,” she said. “Racing is an activity that family members who live far away and I both enjoy, so it gives us a rallying point.” For the Casto family, racing doesn’t always dictate their family’s travel, but rather the opposite: “Normally, we’re already planning to travel to a particular place and look for races in and around that area.”

Ready to go?

What do you want to accomplish in 2023? Do you want to race in new places? Why not structure your travels around a destination race? There are so many unique races in accessible places, both in Florida and around the country. “When planning, be sure to understand the course, weather, and altitude,” Reedy suggests. “Getting there a couple days early so you know your way around also helps. I recommend choosing a race in an area that is unlike your home racing courses. Pick scenery that is out of the ordinary.” Staebell recommends thinking through logistics: “Relax, and stay as close as you can to the start of the race,” she advised.

Collect a few racing adventures with me in 2023, should you feel so inclined, even if destination racing happens for your family within a couple hours’ drive of Naples. This is a beautiful area of the country, with environments that move beyond beaches and coastline (check out the Picayune 10 Miler or the River, Roots & Ruts 10 Trail Run). If you venture to a destination race this year, let me know at info@neafamily.com. I want to hear about your travels. Happy running!

Emily Casto,

mom

is drawn to races in other

Young Entrepreneur Gives Everything Back to the Animals

awareness to the plight of shelter animals.

The idea starting forming when Natalie was just 7 years old and went to the Humane Society Naples to adopt her cat, Luna.

“We walked in the room, and they didn’t have enough toys and supplies for the cats,” she said.

So for her eighth birthday she asked family and party guests to bring dog and cat supplies instead of presents so she could donate those items.

“I have so much stuff I don’t need any more,” Natalie said. “I love animals, so we asked people for beds and food and toys. I think it is so important to help animals. They do so much for us. It’s important to give back to the animals.”

A few years later she came up with even bigger plans to help.

“One day my mom and I were shopping, and I picked up this little clay kit, and I started randomly making earrings,” she described. “They were not like they are now. I didn’t have cutters and molds like I do now.”

But as she got more supplies and her polymer clay earrings improved, she realized she could use them to help the animals. Her first donation was to SNIP Collier.

“I gave $1,000 to help a dog named Zeus who was born with deformed paws,” Natalie said.

Natalie Huntington is a busy business person dedicated to helping animals in Southwest Florida, and she’s only 11 years old. Just over a year ago she formed a nonprofit organization, Deck the Paws, and since then has raised more than $7,000 that she has donated to local animal shelters.

After a busy day as a sixth grader at Seacrest Country Day School in Naples, Natalie comes home, does her homework, and then dedicates her time to her business venture. She makes and sells earrings, key chains, magnets, and dog tags. She designed her own logo and business cards and comes up with creative ways to bring

She also helped pay for surgery for an animal through Camp Many Paws. She raised $1,000 to donate to Big Hearts for Big Dogs Rescue to help pay for surgery for a dog that had a skin disease. And she continues to donate to the Humane Society and Domestic Animal Services, where she recently adopted an orange cat named Cash.

More than making earrings

It’s not just about making earrings. Natalie has learned public speaking and marketing skills.

“We were just spreading the word

Natalie Huntington, 11, makes earrings, key chains, dog tags, magnets, and more that she sells to make money for local animal charities. She created her own nonprofit dedicated to raising money and awareness for animal shelters in Southwest Florida. Photo by Andrea Stetson

everywhere we went,” she said. “At the beginning it was hard to walk up to people and introduce myself, but got easier. Speaking about my company is not something I am uncomfortable [with]. Speaking about my company is something that just comes from the heart.”

Natalie has had success selling her wares at local marketplaces.

“I feel it is a little easier when you are a kid because they will buy anything from you. And when it is for the shelters they get very touched by it,” she said. “People don’t expect someone my age to have their own business and donate [the sales] to a nonprofit.”

It’s not always easy to find time for running a business while also going to school, doing homework, and competing on a swim team.

“It is kind of hard. I am definitely learning to prioritize,” she explained. “I would love to put my company first, but this week I had three tests, and that was very stressful. So I came home Thursday night and I was up until 10 p.m. making earrings, and I made 27 pairs that night.”

Natalie’s parents, Jamie and Craig

Huntington, are very proud of their young entrepreneur.

“I think it’s amazing,” Jamie began. “It’s blown my husband and me away. It has grown much faster than we expected, and we are so proud of her and all she has done so far.”

The young entrepreneur has big plans for the future. She would like her business to grow, adding more items and more

markets for selling. She also has a longterm goal of becoming a prostheses vet.

“I don’t think I could be a regular vet, but I could be a prostheses vet,” she said.

Natalie said she doesn’t have a favorite animal.

“I love them all, though I am a little standoffish when it comes to snakes or sharks or something that can eat me,” she clarified.

For the Naples 11-year-old, life is all about the animals.

“I am not doing this for recognition. I am doing this so the shelters get recognition,” she stressed. “I believe in doing stuff from your heart and giving back to the community. I’m just kid who is trying to make a difference in the community.

Find Your Community Here.

Find Your Community Here.

Find Your Community Here.

Program Hightlights

Program Hightlights

Creative Art & Music Expression

We are the church of the Open Mind, Helping Hands, and Loving Hearts.

Find Your Community Here. We are the church of the Open Mind, Helping Hands, and Loving Hearts.

We are the church of

We are the church Open Mind, Helping and Loving

Program Hightlights

Community Service Projects

• Creative Expression

Social Justice, Action, & Awareness

Program Hightlights • Creative Art & Music Expression • Community Service Projects

Social Justice, Action, & Awareness

• Community Service Projects

Eco-Education, Gardening & Field Trips

Eco-Education, Gardening & Field Trips

• Social Justice, Action, & Awareness • Eco-Education, Gardening & Field Trips

• Social Justice, Action, & Awareness

• Eco-Education, Gardening & Field Trips

• Acceptance & Encouragement of Spiritual Growth

• Acceptance & Encouragement of Spiritual Growth

Join us on Sundays for our free programs.

10-11 AM : Spirit Play (Ages 5-12)

Our Whole Lives (Ages 13-15)

Our Whole Lives (Ages 13-15)

Playroom Childcare (Ages 5 and under)

Playroom Childcare (Ages 5 and under)

11–11:30 AM : All Ages Music Program

11–11:30 AM : All Ages Music Program

Programs Start Sept. 11

For more information email yre@uunaples.org

6340 Napa Woods Way, Naples • www.uunaples.org/youth

6340 Napa Woods Way, Naples • www.uunaples.org/youth

I believe in doing stuff from your heart and giving back to the community.

I’m just kid who is trying to make a difference in the community.

By Karen T. Bartlett

Embracing The Quirk Factor

Discover the World’s Largest Potato, a Biblically-correct 2,000-ton Ark, and a 40-foot biologically correct lobster

Bob Payne, who resides in the uppermost stratosphere of American travel writers, launched his career as a hitchhiking teenager who happened upon the World’s Tallest Thermometer. From there he went on to spend his entire life on an epic journey of discovery, revealed in his new 142-country memoir, Escape Clauses: Getting Away With a Travel Writing Life.

With kids and grandkids (and you know, budget considerations), we can’t all head off untethered to the far reaches of the planet. Luckily, it’s not always how far you go but the camaraderie, silliness, and beyond-weird roadside attractions along the way.

Did Bob ever commune with the World’s Largest Potato (Boise, Idaho), America’s Largest Garden Gnome (Kerhonkson, New York), Giant SpongeBob (Clements, Maryland), or the weird UFO Welcome Center (Bowman, South Carolina)? Probably not. But we can.

There’s plenty of fun stuff out there, and you can find a few of them on the next page.

For more fun photos of the Quirkiest Roadside attractions, visit https://neafamily.com.

Florida

Betsy the Lobster, Florida Keys

You can’t miss the massive 30’ x 40’ biologically correct fiberglass crustacean waving her 12 spiny legs and antennae at travelers along the Overseas Highway in Islamorada. The old girl, who lives in front of the Rain Barrel Village shops and galleries, has been luring tourists to stop in for nearly half a century. www.rainbarrelvillage.com

Solomon’s Castle, Ona

Not surprisingly, the three-story castle just northeast of Sarasota is TripAdvisor’s #1 of two things to do in Ona. Constructed of polished-up aluminum newspaper printing plates, it’s a mashup of a medieval castle with a moat restaurant, the Alamo, and a 16th century Spanish galleon. It’s a family legacy run by the founder’s son. Ticket costs can add up for a family on a budget.

www.solomonscastle.com

Kentucky

Ventriloquist Museum, Fort Mitchell

Across the Ohio River from Cincinnati, you’ve got Vent Haven Museum, which houses about 1,000 ventriloquist dummies. It’s under renovation for the big reopening in the spring. You go on ahead; I may catch up with you. www.venthaven.org

Ark Encounter, Williamstown

Also in the great state of Kentucky is the 510-foot-long Noah’s Ark, built to biblical specifications and weighing in at 2,000 tons. It claims the title of Largest Timber-frame Structure in the World. With its impressive interactive exhibits, exquisite craftsmanship by Amish artisans, and daily audiovisual presentations, it’s very family friendly.

www.arkencounter.com

Georgia

Smiling Peanut, Plains

You might recognize the toothy grin of America’s 39th president, who happens to live right around the corner from this 13-foot peanut. Jimmy Carter himself has

never been amused by the monument, but it does make a great selfie. www.nps.gov/places/smiling-peanut.htm

Old Car City USA,White

This 34-acre graveyard of 4,000-plus classic vehicles in various stages of rust, artistic enhancement and overgrowth calls itself the world’s largest open-air classic car museum. It’s a dream for fashion shoots and a certain kind of funky photographer (me). Check out the collection of Styrofoam cup art. Modest admission plus $10 for your camera.

www.oldcarcityusa.com

The Panoramic Encyclopedia of Everything Elvis, Cornelia

According to Joni Mabe the Elvis Babe’s website, her Elvis museum houses some 30,000 Elvis Presley items (postage stamps, velvet paintings, lava lamps, concert tickets, you name it). In case you’re interested, there’s a formaldehydepreserved wart in a glass vial enveloped in red velvet, purportedly donated by Elvis’s doctor, and a “Maybe Elvis” toenail clipping Mabe found at Graceland. Each August she hosts the annual Big E Festival and Elvis tribute artist competition. Cornelia is 90 minutes northeast of Atlanta. www.corneliageorgia.org; www.bigefest.com

Goats on the Roof, Tiger

At this 1970s-era roadside tourist attraction the biggest draws are 14 goats that may, at any given time, be grazing on the sod roof or trying to dine on the back pocket of your shorts. You’ve also got your food truck, your fudge shop, your playground with quirky climbing structure, your gem-mining, and your kitschy gift shop. Kids love it. It’s about 45 minutes off I-75 in Georgia’s northeast corner. www.goats-on-the-roof.com

New York

The Big Duck, Long Island

The 1930s-era 10-ton, 30-foot-long concrete Pekin duck in the town of Flanders has red Model T taillights for eyes. Yes, they light up. Cool museum about Long Island’s duck farming, and of course, ducky souvenirs.

www.bigduck.org

Illinois

The World’s Largest … Everything, Casey

If you’re into world’s largest things, head to the town of Casey, 30 minutes west of Terre Haute, Indiana, which thrives on

Guinness

World’s

got

(Does Holland know about this?) and at least seven more, variously climbable, swingable, and playable. Most were built with recycled materials like telephone poles, pipes, and old oil tanks by one man on a mission to put his hometown on the map. www.bigthingssmalltown.com

new Jersey

Lucy the Elephant, Margate City

Lucy the Elephant lives on the beach on the Jersey Shore. Standing 65 feet (six stories) tall, the 1881 real estate office is now a super-cool museum (yes, you can go inside!) with a brand-new facelift unveiling this month. www.lucytheelephant.org

Photos, facing page, top: Betsy the Lobster in Islamorada. Facing page, bottom: Smiling peanut in Plains, Georgia. Above: The Big Duck in Long Island, New York.

World Records. They’ve

the

Largest Swizzle Spoon, Barber Pole, Pitchfork, Wind Chime, Wooden Shoes

The all-new second edition is the perfect guide for visitors, local families, classrooms, homeschool groups, and libraries. Twice as many colorful photos and illustrations ... more super-fun attractions and experiences ... more freaky factoids and inside tips. Plus, all the websites and phone numbers you need. It’s absolutely, positively not just for kids! Available in the best bookstores, gift shops, and on amazon.com.