Neapolitan Family July 2023

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Our cover kids this month are the Gerace brothers. Thank you to Volcano Mountain Adventure Golf in Naples for hosting our cover shoot! Logan (top left) is the oldest and is 9 years old. His passion is soccer, and he will play for Florida West this year. He also is artistic and loves to sketch. Lukas (top right) is celebrating his 6th birthday this month. He plays soccer and also enjoys swimming. He is extremely inquisitive and loves learning. Landon, who turned 2 last month, is always happy. He loves watching Mickey Mouse, reading books, and trying to do everything his older brothers do.

6 Kids Eat Free. We’ve updated our list of local restaurants where your kids can eat for free (or almost free)

13 Family Fun. There is so much to do this month in SWFL, including fireworks on July 4th and a surprising number of Christmas in July events.

20 Tylenol vs. Motrin. Learn which medication is best for your child.

by Lou E. Romig, M.D.

22 Birthday Contest We’re giving away gift cards for the best birthday venues in SWFL.

23 Birthday Freebies. Find out where to get free stuff on your birthday

by Rachel Newman

24 Making Milestone Birthdays Magic. How area families celebrate those big birthdays.

by Andrea Stetson

28 One Rad Dad Meet Adam Meistrell –father, artist, and high school ceramics teacher.

by Anna Snyder

Monday through Thursday 9 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.

options Ages 2– 4 year olds (by August 1st)

Cover photo by Emily Brockelsby www.studioembr.com 239-331-0529

Keeping track of which restaurants offer free (or discounted) kid’s meals is an impossible task for parents, so we’ve done the legwork for you. Check the details below for each restaurant, as days and purchase requirements vary, even among different locations of some of the chains. We’d love to hear about other restaurants in Southwest Florida where kids can eat for free, so please share with us at info@neafamily.com.

APPLEBEE’S GRILL & BAR

5082 Airport Pulling Rd. N., Naples • 239-434-7744

On Sundays, a kid’s meal is $1.99 with the purchase of an adult entrée. Dine-in only.

BEEF O’BRADY’S

7385 Radio Rd., Naples • 239-348-2100

A kid’s meal is $3.49 with the purchase of an adult entrée all day on Tuesdays, for ages 12 and younger. Dine-in only.

BOB EVANS

2570 Northbrooke Plaza Dr., Naples • 239-598-5255

One free kid’s meal with each adult entrée purchase after 4 p.m. on Tuesdays. Dine-in only.

BURNTWOOD TAVERN

9110 Strada Pl., Naples • 239-631-8964

One free kid’s meal for 12 and younger with each adult entrée purchase every Monday.

CICIS PIZZA

2650 Immokalee Rd., Naples • 239-597-0306

Kids ages 0-3 eat free every day.

MILLER’S ALE HOUSE

6320 Hollywood Dr., Naples • 239-591-0125

Kids eat free on Tuesdays with the purchase of a $10+ menu item (excluding alcohol). Limit 2 per table.

PINCHERS CRAB SHACK

1200 5th Ave. S., Naples • 239-434-6616

28580 Bonita Crossings Blvd., Bonita Springs • 239-948-1313

One free kid’s meal every day with the purchase of adult entrée $15.99 or more.

RIB CITY

9191 Tamiami Tr. N., Naples • 239-591-3500

621 North 15th St., Immokalee • 239-657-4003

10431 Corkscrew Commons Dr., Estero • 239-949-1006

Kids under 4 years old receive a free meal (one piece of chicken and fries) with the purchase of each adult meal every day. Dine-in only.

SKILLET’S (through Sept. 30)

4170 Tamiami Tr. N, Naples • 239-262-3788

7711 Collier Blvd., Naples • 239-732-9786

5461 Airport-Pulling Rd., Naples • 239-566-1999

8845 Founders Square Dr., Naples • 239-522-4622

847 Vanderbilt Beach Rd., Naples • 239-330-2515

5628 Strand Blvd., Naples • 239-596-8202

One free kid’s menu item with purchase of full entree on Tuesdays. Ages 10 and younger.

STEVIE TOMATO’S SPORTS PAGE

15215 Collier Blvd., Naples • 239-352-4233

814 Pine Island Rd., Cape Coral

239-573-7877

One free kid’s meal with the purchase of a full-priced adult meal on Wednesdays.

P.O. Box 110656

Naples, FL 34108

info@neafamily.com

from the publisher…

Co-Publisher

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

Co-Publisher

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

Digital Editor

Jane MacNealy

Travel Editor

Karen T. Bartlett

Newsletter 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

THIS MONTH

Birthdays

There’s so much to celebrate in July – the 4th of July, summer vacation, and lighter traffic. Plus, we here at Neapolitan Family have decreed it to be Birthday Month. And we want to help you celebrate, regardless of whether you and your family and friends actually have a birthday this month. To kick things off, go to page 22 and enter our birthday giveaway. You can win $100 gift card toward a birthday party package at one of five great party venues or a family membership to the Naples Zoo. On page 23 you will find a list of local businesses that want to give you free stuff for your birthday. From coffee to toiletries to little cakes – what’s not to love? Speaking of free stuff, we’ve updated our Kids Eat Free list, and you can find it on the facing page. Everything is more expensive these days, and we wanted to help you celebrate anything on a budget. Visit page 24 for Andrea Stetson’s article about how local families make milestone birthdays memorable.

Although the annual 4th of July fireworks show off the Naples Pier has been canceled this year because of after-effects of Hurricane Ian, there are five other free fireworks displays in SWFL, parades, and other events where your family can celebrate Independence Day. The details are on page 14, and we’ve put icons next to those events that include a fireworks show.

And based on the events in our family fun calendar this month, this is a banner year for Christmas in July events. Turn to page 13 and look for the multiple opportunities for your family to take photos or eat breakfast with Santa and get a head start on your shopping.

This summer, take the time to celebrate events both big and small, before we head back into the more hectic days of school and fall.

Happy July!

Neapolitan Family Launches

New Pet of the Week Feature

Inpartnership with the Cape Coral Animal Shelter, Neapolitan Family is highlighting an adoptable family pet each week in our enewsletter. The pets currently are residing at Cape Coral Animal Shelter and want to find their forever home.

All animals that are adopted through the Cape Coral Animal Shelter are spayed/neutered, up-to-date on all age-appropriate vaccines, and microchipped.

The Cape Coral Animal Shelter is located at 325 SW Second Ave., Cape Coral, and is open to the public Tuesday and Thursday 12-5 p.m. and Friday-Sunday 12-4 p.m. For more information visit www.capecoralanimalshelter.com.

To receive Neapolitan Family’s weekly enewsletter that highlights local family events, go to page 30 and scan in the QR code in our ad, or sign up with your email at https://neafamily.com.

The first two adoptable pets at the Cape Coral Animal Shelter featured in Neapolitan Family’s new Pet of the Week feature in our weekly enewsletter were Taylpurr Swift (left) and Mantis. Photos courtesy of Cape Coral Animal Shelter

Disney’s ‘The Little Mermaid’ Opens This Month at Broadway Palm

T his summer, Broadway Palm is going under the sea with Disney’s “The Little Mermaid” playing July 7 through Aug. 12. This full-scale stage production is based on the popular 1989 animated film of the same name.

Performances are Wednesday through Sunday evenings with selected matinees. Tickets include a meal and are $55 to $85, with group prices available. Tickets for ages 16 and younger are $30 this summer, including the meal.

Purchase tickets at www.BroadwayPalm.com, by phone at 239-278-4422, or at the box office at 1380 Colonial Boulevard in Fort Myers.

Books for Collier Distributing Free Books at Hot Summer Nights

Books for Collier Kids is again teaming up with the Collier County Sheriff’s Office to distribute books to children during CCSO’s Hot Summer Nights 2023 events in July.

The free community events feature games, food, and fun for families. The remaining Hot Summer Nights for 2023 are scheduled from 6-8:30 p.m. at Eagle Lakes Park on July 13, Mackle Park on Marco Island on July 20, and Everglades City Park on July 27. For more details, turn to page 13 for Neapolitan Family’s Family Fun calendar.

A BCK volunteer will be working with a deputy to distribute age-appropriate titles to children at the events.

Since 2005, BCK has donated more than 1.6 million books to children in need. Visit www.BooksForCollierKids.org.

Send Us Your Community News!

Did your kids do something amazing? Is your organization hosting an event? Let us know, and you might see your news in Neapolitan Family!

Send photos and details to info@neafamily.com.

Photo courtesy of Broadway Palm

By Salvatore Anzalone, M.D., Medical Director of

are up to date on vaccinations, regular well-child checkups are critical to a child’s growth and development and can ensure they are in good health to perform their best in school.

Annual physicals allow pediatric providers to:

• detect health problems early and develop a treatment plan;

• evaluate a child’s height, weight, and blood pressure;

• encourage positive habits like eating healthy foods and exercising; and

• help ensure children’s long-term health.

However, parents may struggle to find primary care for their children, as Collier County is a federally designated Medically Underserved Area/Health Professional Shortage Area for primary care, especially in the Golden Gate area.

Are Your Children Ready for School?

While we know that parents likely are ready for the start of school, back-to-school readiness involves more than collecting school supplies and getting children back on regular sleep schedules.

To successfully complete registration at Collier County Public Schools, all children must have a physical examination and up-to-date immunizations. National Immunization Awareness Month in August highlights the importance of vaccination for people of all ages.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the American Academy of Pediatrics recommend that children stay on track with their well-child appointments and routine vaccinations. On-time vaccinations protect children under the age of two from 14 potential life-threatening illnesses, including measles, influenza (flu), tetanus, polio, diphtheria, and whooping cough (pertussis).

However, during the pandemic, many children missed some of the vaccinations necessary to protect them from preventable diseases. Children especially at risk of

being behind schedule on their vaccines were born during the pandemic. During the first 18 months, infants see their doctors nearly every month and receive immunizations at nearly every visit.

In 2020, more than 22 million infants missed their first dose of the vaccine against measles, one of the world’s most contagious human viruses that is preventable through vaccination.

The CDC says the number of vaccinated kindergartners entering school continues to decline. During the 2021-22 school year, the number of covered kindergartners declined to approximately 93% for state-required vaccinations, down 1% from the 2020-21 school year, and 2% from the year before. The percentages vary from state to state.

The CDC offers vaccination recommendations, immunization schedules, and information on disease-specific vaccines, as well as schedules for catching children up if they may have missed vaccinations during the pandemic. Learn more at www.cdc.gov/ vaccines/parents/index.html.

In addition to making sure children

Healthcare Network opened the Nichols Community Health Center in 2020, offering a one-stop shop for pediatric medical, behavioral, and dental health services, as well as pediatric convenient care. Well-child checkups and immunizations are available at Nichols Community Health Center and other Healthcare Network offices in Naples and Immokalee.

Healthcare Network provides the same high-quality care to all, regardless of income or insurance status, and offers a sliding fee scale based on family size and income to patients who qualify.

In addition, families facing financial difficulties may be able to get free or lowcost vaccinations through government programs. A recent federal initiative allows trained pharmacists in every state to provide routine vaccinations to children – a convenient option for families who may have moved to a new town and have yet to find a local pediatrician.

SALVATORE ANZALONE, M.D., FAAP, is a pediatrician and the medical director of pediatrics for Healthcare Network. To make an appointment at Healthcare Network with a pediatric provider and ensure your child is ready for the first day of school, call 239-658-3000.

By Jennifer Kupiec

Find a New Career With Collier County Public Schools

Summer break may be in full swing, but here at the Collier County Public Schools, staff is hard at work preparing for the upcoming school year. Our facilities team is diligently managing many projects on our 50+ school campuses (including the new Aubrey Rogers High School), our teaching and learning area is busy creating curriculum maps and guides for teachers, student registration continues to welcome new families to the area, and human resources is gearing up to hire hundreds of employees for the 2023-24 school year.

Being one of the largest employers in Collier County, CCPS has many positions available in a wide variety of career fields. We have worked hard to build competitive salaries and offer many paid supplemental opportunities, medical and basic term life insurance at no cost to the employee, retirement benefits, personal and sick leave, and pathways to grow within the organization. In addition to our teaching positions, there are openings for facilities maintenance/ construction project managers, classroom assistants, bus drivers, school cafeteria workers, office staff, and more. A quick visit to www.collierschools.com/employment will provide you with our job vacancies and online application, applicant resources, and career development opportunities.

If you are looking for flexibility in a job, you may want to consider becoming a guest teacher (also known as a substitute teacher). Guest teachers are able to choose the dates they wish to work, as well as the locations, grade levels, position types, and classrooms. It is a great introduction into the school environment should the teaching profession, or other careers in PreK-12 education, pique your interest. Information related to guest teaching may be found at www.collierschools.com/guest teachers.

Career development has become an important recruitment tool for CCPS. To that end, our human resources team has developed a number of programs and

initiatives to assist individuals who may be searching for a career within our A-rated public school district:

• Teach 4 Collier targets individuals with a four-year degree who may be seeking a career change or want to return to work after retirement. It offers many options and supports to obtain experience in the classroom as a teacher.

• Grow 2 Teach promotes the teaching profession to current non-instructional staff and supports them through their education process as they work to become a teacher.

• Guest 2 Teach is a program for guest staff who are interested in obtaining Florida Teaching Certification and are seeking fulltime instructional opportunities.

• Transport 4 Collier is a five-week training course that includes a classroom component and behind-the-wheel training requirement for non-CDL holders. The training is free, and upon completion of the program, qualified drivers are immediately hired by the district into full- and part-time positions. Bus drivers who accept a full-time

position earn a competitive hourly wage with guaranteed hours, free district-provided health insurance, as well as sick and personal leave time.

• Teaching in the Trades is designed for career changers and existing educators who have an interest in educating students about careers in the trades industries.

If you are interested in joining our CCPS family, we encourage you to take advantage of the many opportunities and career paths available. To connect with the CCPS staffing and recruitment team, contact StaffingCCPS@collierschools.com.

CCPS representatives will be at Neapolitan Family’s Back to School Expo to talk with you about current job opportunities on Saturday, Aug. 5 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at North Collier Regional Park’s gym.

Nino Zampogna Spreads Kindness, Friendship at Sea Gate

Nino Zampogna, 9, wanted to spread kindness and friendship. So one day he put up a poster and tried to start a club at his school in Naples.

“A friend threw it in the trash, so he came home really down and said ‘I don’t understand. We need kindness in the world’,” recalled his mother, Danielle.

Nino learned that to start a club, he would need a sponsor and school support, so he set about obtaining those two items. This past year he founded Sea Gate Elementary School’s Friendship Club.

“I am very kind, so I decided to spread my kindness at my school,” Nino said. “We go around and help kids make friends. We make sure they have a place to make friends and make sure they are connected. And we have the Buddy Bench where people can sit, and people come up to them and say, ‘Do you want to play?’ ”

The Friendship Club has a board with three boys and three girls. They meet at lunch to discuss ideas for the group. Club members made an informational video encouraging kids to use the Buddy Bench, and they have helped create “mix up” lunches where kids can sit with students from other classrooms.

“A mix-up lunch is where you get to sit wherever you want. It helps people make new friends and [meet] people they never met,” Nino explained.

The group sold scented pencils and donated the money raised to Laces of Love, a local nonprofit that donates shoes to children in need. On Earth Day club members cleaned the playground. They also made cards for a student that was in the hospital.

“We did chalk messages for fifth grade testing,” Nino described. “We wrote kind messages to encourage [students]. We hid kind messages in books in the library. I worked with the librarian to find out the most popular books in the library.”

“I am so proud of Nino,” Danielle said. “He is such a leader.

He is so kind, so personable, so outgoing. He never gave up on the Friendship Club. Usually kids lose attention, but he always goes to the board meetings.”

Katie Carney, Sea Gate’s guidance counselor, sponsors the club. She said when Nino first approached her about starting the group, she knew it would work.

“I have watched him flourish,” she said. “He always has the kindest heart, and [for him] to start something schoolwide, it really makes me smile.”

Nino has even more plans for the coming school year. He wants to create an ambassadors group to welcome new students to Sea Gate. He also wants to see Friendship Clubs start in other schools.

“I was thinking we could make this countywide, and we could have a club in each school,” Nino said.

Nino even has a succession plan in place for the Sea Gate club. “I am going to give it to my brother,” Nino said. “We are three years apart.”

When Nino is not spreading his kindness, he likes to play soccer and baseball. He also likes going to Revs Institute in Naples to see the antique cars. “I am a car fanatic,” he stressed.

FAMILY FUN in July

9 a.m. Nature Explorers. Ages 5-11. $10. Inspires students to connect with nature through hikes, shows, arts and crafts, games, and activities. Located at Calusa Nature Center, 3450 Ortiz Ave., Fort Myers. Check www.calusanature.org.

10 a.m. Free Kids’ Fishing. Fish on the back lake (catch and release). Located at Bass Pro Shop, 10040 Gulf Center Dr., Fort Myers. Call 239-461-7800 or check www.basspro.com.

1 p.m. ASD Social Skills Playgroup. Family Initiative’s weekly group where kids with autism fit in, progress, and make friends. Ages 4+. $20. Located at Christ Community Church, 4050 Colonial Blvd., Fort Myers. Check www.fi-florida.org or call 239-910-0712.

2 p.m. Summer Fuse Bead. All ages. Create a star, horse, flower, and more. Located at Immokalee Library, 417 N. First St., Immokalee. Check www.collierlibrary.org or call 239-252-7073.

2 SUNDAY

9 a.m. Free Wonder Gardens Admission. Free entry with Bonita Springs address on a photo ID on the first Sunday of the month. Located at Wonder Gardens, 27180 Old 41 Rd., Bonita Springs. Check www.wondergardens.org or call 239-992-2591.

10 a.m. Sensory Sunday Independence Day Celebration. A day full of amazing games, sensory programs, crafts, and more. Enjoy our brilliant sensory-sensitive firework show inside of our air conditioned planetarium. Located at Calusa Nature Center, 3450 Ortiz Ave., Fort Myers. Check www.calusanature.org.

3 MONDAY

Library Hours. Scavenger Hunt. All month. Find all of the pictures hidden in the library and get a prize. Located at Vanderbilt Beach Library, 788 Vanderbilt Beach Rd., Naples. Call 239252-7160 or check www.collierlibrary.org.

1 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.

SUMMER CAMPS SUMMER CAMPS

THRU AUGUST 9 AT ARTS BONITA

We welcome kids ages 4-18 to our innovative summer program featuring classes in painting, sculpture, pottery, drawing, glass and mosaics; plus, courses in singing, dancing, acting, and audition techniques. At Arts Bonita you can write a play; build your own instruments; take ballet, tap, and jazz dance classes, and more! Pick your favorites, mix and match to create your own dynamic schedule. Before, Lunch & After Care available.

10 a.m. 4th of July Make ‘n’ Take. Make a patriotic craft while supplies last. Located at Estates Library, 1266 Golden Gate Blvd. W., Naples. Check www.collierlibrary.org or call 239-252-7109

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

Photo by Monica Alvarez

Happy Independence Day!

4 TUESDAY

9 a.m. Bonita Springs Independence Day Parade. The parade will take place on Old 41 between Kentucky Street and Rosemary Drive. Located in Downtown Bonita Springs. Check www.bonitaspringsparade.com.

10 a.m. Naples’ Fourth of July Parade. The parade starts at Third Street South and 11th Avenue South. Located in Downtown Naples. Check www.naplesgov.com or call 239-213-3037.

5 p.m. Red, White, and Boom. Fireworks at 9:30 p.m., live music, and more. Free admission. No pets or outside alcohol. Located on Cape Coral Parkway at the foot of Cape Coral Bridge. Check www.capeboom.com.

6 p.m. Star Spangled Bonita. The Ben Allen Band and a 30-minute fireworks show. Free admission. Food available for purchase. No coolers or pets. Located in Riverside Park, 10450 Reynolds St., Bonita Springs. Check www.cityofbonitasprings.org or call 239-949-6262.

6 p.m. Freedom Fest. Fireworks display, food trucks, live music, crafts, and vendors. Free admission. Located in Downtown Fort Myers on Edwards Drive between Jackson and Hendry Streets. Check www.myriverdistrict.com.

6 p.m. Independence Day Fireworks. Free. Fireworks at 9 p.m. Live music. No outside food or drinks. Bring chairs and blankets. Located at Paradise Coast Sports Complex, 3940 City Gate Blvd. N., Naples. Check www.playparadisecoast.com.

9 p.m. Marco Island July 4th Fireworks. Free. Located at South Marco Beach, 130 S. Collier Blvd., Marco Island. Check www.paradisecoast.com.

5 WEDNESDAY

2 p.m. Make-and-Take. Drop-in workshop where kids and adults learn about featured museum exhibitions and then create their own artwork. Free with museum admission. Located at ArtisNaples, 5833 Pelican Bay Blvd., Naples. Check www.artisnaples. org, call 239-254-2621, or email jwozniak@artisnaples.org.

2 p.m. Summer Reading Program Activity. Ages 5+. A new activity every Wednesday in July. Registration required. Located at Marco Island Library, 210 S. Heathwood Dr., Marco Island. Call 239-252-7064 or check www.collierlibrary.org.

6 THURSDAY

2 p.m. Cricut Basics for Teens. Ages 11-17. Learn to make designs and use a Cricut machine. Registration required. Located at Immokalee Library, 417 N. First St., Immokalee. Check www. collierlibrary.org or call 239-252-7073.

2 p.m. Recycling Challenge. Children will learn to identify and sort recyclable goods. Registration required. Located at South Regional Library, 8065 Lely Cultural Pkwy., Naples. Check www. collierlibrary.org or call 239-252-7542.

5:30 p.m. Cow Friends Sleepover. Pictures with the cow, crafts, storytime, and snacks. Come dressed in your pajamas and bring your favorite stuffed animal, which will stay overnight for a slumber party and enjoy adventures with the night crew. Located at Chick-fil-A, 1790 N.E. Pine Island Rd., Cape Coral. Call 239242-8748 or visit www.facebook.com/cfacapecoral.

7 FRIDAY

11:30 a.m. & 5:30 p.m. Disney’s The Little Mermaid. Opening night. Select dates through Aug. 12. $30 for show and lunch or dinner for ages 16 and younger. Located at Broadway Palm Theatre, 1380 Colonial Blvd., Fort Myers. Check www. broadwaypalm.com or call 239-278-4422.

3 p.m. Tween Activity. Every Friday in July, with a different fun activity each week. Registration required. Located at Headquarters Library, 2385 Orange Blossom Dr., Naples. Call 239-252-7350 or check www.collierlibrary.org.

5:30 p.m. Avow Kids Movie Night: Parent Trap. Free. Located at Avow Ispiri Community Center, 1205 Whippoorwill Ln., Naples. Call 239-649-3686 to RSVP or visit www.avowcares.org.

6 p.m. Friday Night Hoops. Free. Sponsored by Collier County Sheriff’s Office. For current middle and high school students (bring school ID), 6-10 p.m., July 7, 21, and 28. All ages. Located at Golden Gate Community Center, 4701 Golden Gate Pkwy., Naples, and Immokalee Sports Complex, 505 Escambia St., Immokalee. Call 239-252-0144 or check www.colliersheriff.org.

8 SATURDAY

9 a.m. Safari Squad. Ages 1-4 with an adult. Animal encounter, storytime, art, and play stations. Registration required. Located at Naples Zoo, 1590 Goodlette-Frank Rd., Naples. Check www. napleszoo.org or call 239-315-7626, x158.

10 a.m. Baby and Me. For 18 months to 3 years. Exploring, creating, singing, and dancing. Located at Autism Support Center, 734 S.W. Fourth St., Cape Coral. Call Family Initiative at 239910-0712 or check www.fi-florida.org.

10 a.m. Christmas in July: Meet Santa. Santa is visiting the Holiday House. Located at Shell Factory, 16554 N. Cleveland Ave., Fort Myers. Call 239-995-2141 or check www.shellfactory.com.

10 a.m. Hands-On History Family Day. Kids will get a sense of life in the past through crafts, games, and more. Located at Collier Museum at Government Center, 3331 Tamiami Tr. E., Naples. Check www.colliermuseums.com or call 239-252-8476.

X SATURDAY MOVIE MATINEE

NAPLES LIBRARY

650 CENTRAL AVE., NAPLES

239-252-5135 • WWW.COLLIERLIBRARY.ORG

12 p.m. Christmas in July Artisan Market. Take photos with and give letters to Santa. Located at Mercato Shops, Suite 3135, Naples. Call 239-254-1080 or visit www.experiencemercato.com.

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

X PRESCHOOL NOT-SO-SCARY HALLOWEEN PARTY

3 p.m. Pups ‘n’ Books. Read to a dog or just pet one. All ages. Dogs are provided by Golden PAWS Assistance Dogs. Located at Vanderbilt Beach Library, 788 Vanderbilt Beach Rd., Naples. Call 239-252-7160 or check www.collierlibrary.org.

SOUTH COUNTY REGIONAL LIBRARY

10 MONDAY

21100 THREE OAKS PKWY., ESTERO

239-533-4400 • WWW.LEEGOV.COM/LIBRARY

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.

9 a.m. Avow Kids Around the World Camp. Free. Thru July 14. Ages 7-11. Helps children who are experiencing a loss and are having a hard time handling big emotions. Located at Aunt Janet’s House, Avow, 1301 Whippoorwill Lane, Naples. RSVP to avowkids@avowcares.org. Visit www.avowcares.org.

X HALLOWEEN MAGIC WITH JOEY EVANS

SOUTH COUNTY REGIONAL LIBRARY

21100 THREE OAKS PKWY., ESTERO

239-533-4400 • WWW.LEEGOV.COM/LIBRARY

3 p.m. Magical Toy Shop. Grades K-2. Join us for dramatic play with Ingrid Schaeffer. Registration required. Located at Headquarters Library, 2385 Orange Blossom Dr., Naples. Check www. collierlibrary.org or call 239-252-7371.

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

X PRE-READERS SPOOKY DANCE PARTY

BONITA SPRINGS PUBLIC LIBRARY

3 p.m. Tangle of Tales. Ages 6-11. Three favorite folktales from around the world come to life. Located at Bonita Springs Library, 10560 Reynolds St., Bonita Springs. Call 239-533-4860 or check www.leegov.com/library.

10560 REYNOLDS STREET, BONITA SPRINGS

239-533-4860 • WWW.LEEGOV.COM/LIBRARY

4:30 p.m. Theater Games and Improv. Grades 3-5. Theater games and improv with Ingrid Schaeffer. Registration is required. Located at Headquarters Library, 2385 Orange Blossom Dr., Naples. Check www.collierlibrary.org or call 2379-252-7371.

Most Insurances Accepted

11 TUESDAY

2 p.m. Paper Seed Cards. Grades K-2. Learn how to make your own plantable cards. Registration required. Located at South Regional Library, 8065 Lely Cultural Pkwy., Naples. Check www. collierlibrary.org or call 239-252-7542.

2:30 p.m. Whooooo Wants to Learn About Burrowing Owls? Learn about these charismatic and endangered pint-sized owls. Located at Golden Gate Library, 2432 Lucerne Rd., Naples. Call 239-252-4549 or check www.collierlibrary.org.

6 p.m. Bunny Yoga and Mindfulness. Ages 12-17. Bunnies will be free-roaming during yoga practice Registration required. Located at South County Library, 21100 Three Oaks Pkwy., Estero. Call 239-533-4400 or check www.leegov.com/library.

12 WEDNESDAY

10 a.m. Let it Glow. Grades K-5. Conduct different types of glow-in-the-dark experiments. Registration required. Located at South Regional Library, 8065 Lely Cultural Pkwy., Naples. Check www.collierlibrary.org or call 239-252-7542.

4 p.m. Bunny Yoga. Ages 11-17. Bunnies and yoga practice. Located at Bonita Springs Library, 10560 Reynolds St., Bonita Springs. Call 239-533-4860 or check www.leegov.com/library.

3 p.m. Jewelry with Seeds and Beads. All ages. Spend the afternoon making jewelry. Located at Immokalee Library, 417 N. First St., Immokalee. Check www.collierlibrary.org or call 239-252-7073.

4 p.m. Car Seat Checkup with Free Car Seats. Learn how to properly install your car seat, and get a free one while supplies last. Located at Florida Department of Health Collier County, 3339 Tamiami Tr. E., Bldg. H. Check www.safekidsswfl.org or call 239-343-5101.

6 p.m. Reeling With a Ranger. Equipment and bait provided. Free. Located at Freedom Park, 1515 Golden Gate Pkwy., Naples. Check www.collierparks.com or call 239-252-4000.

13 THURSDAY

11 a.m. Baby Playdate. Ages birth to 18 months. Play with your baby and meet new friends during this special sensory play date. Located at Bonita Springs Library, 10560 Reynolds St., Bonita Springs. Call 239-533-4860 or check www.leegov.com/ library.

2 p.m. Human Impacts on the Ocean. Learn how we can become better stewards of the earth. Registration required. Located at South Regional Library, 8065 Lely Cultural Pkwy., Naples. Check www.collierlibrary.org or call 239-252-7542.

4 p.m. Lego Fun. Ages 4-11. Share ideas, be creative, and have fun. Located at Estates Library, 1266 Golden Gate Blvd. W., Naples. Call 239-252-7109 or check www.collierlibrary.org.

6 p.m. Hot Summer Nights. Free. Sponsored by Collier County Sheriff’s Office. Family fun night with games, activities, music, food, and more. All ages. Located at Eagle Lakes Park, 11565 Tamiami Tr. E., Naples. Call 239-252-0144 or check www.colliersheriff.org.

14

FRIDAY

10 a.m. Le Leche League Monthly Meeting. All breastfeeding mothers and mothers-to-be interested in breastfeeding are welcome. Located at The Humble Hut, 2740 Bayshore Dr., Unit 5, Naples. Call 865-696-6353 or check www.lllflorida.com/naples.

10 a.m. Tangle of Tales Grey Seals Puppets. All ages. A performance of three folk tales. Registration required. Located at Headquarters Library, 2385 Orange Blossom Dr., Naples. Check www.collierlibrary.org or call 239-252-7371.

2 p.m. Lego Fun. 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.

15

SATURDAY

9 a.m. Autism Screening. These free screenings are for children 1-3 years old and do not provide a diagnosis. Located at Autism Support Center, 734 S.W. Fourth St., Cape Coral. To register, call Family Initiative at 239-910-0712 or email info@fi-florida.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.

16

SUNDAY

9 a.m. Christmas in July: Breakfast With Santa. Reservations required. Located at Shell Factory, 16554 N. Cleveland Ave., Fort Myers. For reservations call 239-995-2141, ext. 117. Check www.shellfactory.com.

10 a.m. The Kids’ Club. Parents and kids younger than 12 can join us for crafts, games, and fun. Located at Naples Pride Center, 2248 Airport Rd. S., Naples. Call 239-304-9407 or check www. naplespride.org.

17

MONDAY

3 p.m. Storytelling Together With Windell Campbell. Ages 6-11. Songs, props, and audience participation to bring stories to life. Located at Bonita Springs Library, 10560 Reynolds St., Bonita Springs. Call 239-533-4860 or check www.leegov.com/library.

4 p.m. Live Interaction with Reptiles. Meet and learn about a tortoise, bearded dragon, snake, and gecko from a park ranger. Registration required. Located at Estates Library, 1266 Golden Gate Blvd. W., Naples. Check www.collierlibrary.org or call 239-252-7109.

18

TUESDAY

2 p.m. Bird Feeder Fun. Grades K-2. Build your own bird feeder. Registration required. Located at South Regional Library, 8065 Lely Cultural Pkwy., Naples. Check www.collierlibrary.org or call 239-252-7542.

2 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 239-533-4400 or check www.leegov.com/library.

•

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13560 Tamiami Trail N. #4, Naples 239-596-6096 Also in: Fort Myers at 239-274-0039 Port Charlotte at 941-764-8121

County food, Ter239and South www. 5-13. Located at Check othChilCheck video Pkwy., www.leegov.com/library. Refuge Outreach

IRISH DANCE CLASSES

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

7:30 p.m. Christmas in July Movie Night: A Christmas Story. Free. Take photos with Santa at 7:30 p.m. Coastal Christmas costume contest and movie. Located at Mercato Shops, Naples. Check www.experiencemercato.com or call 239-254-1080.

19 WEDNESDAY

10 a.m. Preschool Program: Ice Age Exploration. Ages 3-5. Explore a pretty cool part of Florida’s past. Located at Collier Museum at Government Center, 3331 Tamiami Tr. E., Naples. Call 239-252-8476 or check www.colliermuseums.com.

10 a.m. Wind-up Car Races. Grades K-5. Build and race a rubber band car. Registration required. Located at South Regional Library, 8065 Lely Cultural Pkwy., Naples. Call 239-252-7542 or check www.collierlibrary.org.

5 p.m. Women’s Self-Defense Class. Registration required. Ages 13+. Located at Miromar Outlets, 10801 Corkscrew Rd., Suite 190, Estero. For details or to register email glevine@sheriffleefl.org.

20 THURSDAY

2 p.m. Super Science: Shocking Science Spectacular. Get hands on with hair-raising science experiments. Registration required. Located at South Regional Library, 8065 Lely Cultural Pkwy., Naples. Check www.collierlibrary.org or call 239-252-7542.

3:30 p.m. Trivia Game With Trish. Learn fun things with a trivia game. Located at Golden Gate Library, 2432 Lucerne Rd., Naples. Call 239-252-4549 or check www.collierlibrary.org.

6 p.m. Hot Summer Nights. Free. Sponsored by Collier County Sheriff’s Office. Family fun night with games, activities, music, food, and more. All ages. Located at Mackle Park, 1361 Andalusia Terrace, Marco Island. Check www.colliersheriff.org or call 239-252-0144.

7 p.m. PFLAG Naples. A safe, loving, and supportive environment for the parents, family, and friends of LGBTQ+ people. Located at Naples Pride Center, 2248 Airport Rd. S., Naples. Call 239-304-9407 or check www.naplespride.org.

24 MONDAY

9 a.m. Avow Kids Around the World Camp. Free. Thru July 28. Ages 8-13. Helps children who are experiencing a loss and having a hard time handling big emotions. Located at 750 S. 5th St. Immokalee. RSVP to avowkids@avowcares.org. Visit www.avowcares.org.

3 p.m. Little Red and the Big Bully Wolf. Ages 6-11. Learn to identify, report, and resist bullying as we follow Little Red on her journey. Located at Bonita Springs Library, 10560 Reynolds St., Bonita Springs. Call 239-533-4860 or check www.leegov.com/library.

4 p.m. Ice Cream Social. Ages 11-17. Make and enjoy your own tasty ice cream. Registration required. Located at Estates Library, 1266 Golden Gate Blvd. W., Naples. Call 239-252-7109 or check www.collierlibrary.org

Children’s

5 p.m. Social Skills Classes. Kids and teens learn important social skills. Located at BEEing Social, 8200 Immokalee Rd., Naples. Call 239-877-3256 or email beeingsocialclasses@yahoo.com

25 TUESDAY

2 p.m. Animal Tracks. Grades K-2. Learn about animals and the tracks they leave behind. Registration required. Located at South Regional Library, 8065 Lely Cultural Pkwy., Naples. Check www.collierlibrary.org or call 239-252-7542.

5:30 p.m. Exceptional Night. For children with autism and other sensory integration disorders or other disabilities. Located at Children’s Museum of Naples, 15080 Livingston Rd., Naples. Check www.cmon.org or call 239-514-0084.

6 p.m. Teen Game Night. Ages 12-17. Board games and video games. Located at South County Library, 21100 Three Oaks Pkwy., Estero. Call 239-533-4400 or check www.leegov.com/library.

26 WEDNESDAY

10:30 a.m. Woof Walk. Meet furry friends from Animal Refuge Center. Located at Miromar Outlets, Lee County Sheriff’s Outreach Center, Suite 190, 10801 Corkscrew Rd., Estero. Call 239948-3766 or check www.miromaroutlets.com.

6 p.m. Art After Hours. A fun evening of art and entertainment for all ages. Located at Artis-Naples, Baker Museum, 5833 Pelican Bay Blvd., Naples. Call 239-597-1900 or visit www.artisnaples.org.

27 THURSDAY

11 a.m. Preschool Playdate. Ages 2-5. Meet new friends and develop early literacy skills. Located at Bonita Springs Library, 10560 Reynolds St., Bonita Springs. Call 239-533-4860 or check www.leegov.com/library.

4 p.m. Modern Table Manners and Proper Etiquette. For kids in grades 6-12 and families. Learn and practice table manners and other etiquette. Located at Immokalee Library, 417 N. First St., Immokalee. Check www.collierlibrary.org or call 239-252-7073.

5 p.m. Family Fun Night. Games, food, face painting, balloons sculptures, live animals, and more. Located at Bell Tower, 13499 S. Cleveland Ave., Fort Myers. Call 239-489-1221 or check www.belltowerfl.com.

6 p.m. Hot Summer Nights. Free. Sponsored by Collier County Sheriff’s Office. Family fun night with games, activities, music, food. All ages. Located at McLeod Park, 208 S. Copeland Ave., Everglades City. Check www.colliersheriff.org or call 239-252-0144.

30 SUNDAY

11 a.m. The Big Backpack Event. Ages 5-12 accompanied by parent or guardian receive free backpacks and school supplies at this drive-thru event while supplies last. Located at Fort Myers Skatium, 2250 Broadway, Fort Myers. Call 239-333-5747 or check www.multicultural-centre.org.

Don’t miss this treasure... we highly recommend it, especially if you have children.

natural

MAKE A CONNECTION

In addition to becoming a member - which includes FREE ADMISSION for one year to all of our interactive exhibits - there are many ways to connect with our water, land, wildlife and future through the Conservancy of Southwest Florida!

Learn more or get involved at conservancy.org.

Tylenol vs. Motrin

When our children have fever or pain, we naturally want to make them feel better. Tender loving care can go a long way, but sometimes we need a little help from medications. When considering when to give medications for fever or pain and also what to give, the first thing to do is realize why we’re using the medication.

Pain

Nobody wants their child to be in pain. Pain is not only upsetting, but it also can increase heart and breathing rates as well as blood pressure (although not usually to dangerous levels) and make a child cranky or withdrawn.

One of our key jobs as parents and caregivers is to reduce suffering by trying to minimize or prevent pain. Acetaminophen (such as the Tylenol brand) and ibuprofen (such as Motrin or Advil) are our main tools to do that.

Both are great medications for fever and pain, but ibuprofen has an added benefit of fighting inflammation, which acetaminophen does not. For this reason, ibuprofen is sometimes preferred for pain from injuries or illnesses involving inflammation.

Fever

Fever is one of the most common reasons caregivers seek medical evaluation for their children. There is much apprehension about fever: Some people are fearful when their child has a fever because of stories they have heard about fever causing brain damage and convulsions or even death. Couple that with the fact that children often look and act much sicker when they have fever, and it adds up to a lot of anxiety.

Caregivers often turn to acetaminophen or ibuprofen, and sometimes both, in an effort to make the fever go away. There’s a lot of confusion about which medicine to give, how much to give, and when to give it.

The good news is most stories about the dangers of fever are absolutely false! Fever from infection rarely goes above 106 F. The body temperature has to go above about 107 F before there is any damage to the brain or body.

There is such a thing as febrile seizures, but they are limited to children between the ages of 6 months and 5 years. When they occur, they are usually very brief and do not cause complications. They are completely unpredictable and do not occur because the temperature goes above a certain level. They are far scarier than they are dangerous.

Which medication is best for your child?

A fever that doesn’t go down all the way with proper doses of fever medication or one that comes back before the next dose is due is neither an indicator of infection nor of the seriousness of the illness. The fact that you can’t completely control the fever is not something to worry about, as it means nothing about the infection that is causing the fever. The fever will go away when the worst of the infection goes away.

The real reason to treat fever is to make your child feel better. Fever itself, regardless of the source of the infection, will increase the heart rate and breathing rate; make your child sleepy, cranky, or clingy; and decrease their appetite. If you can get the fever down

even a degree or two, your child likely will feel better, start eating and drinking better, and look much more like themselves. Then you’ll feel better too.

Fever control

Both acetaminophen and ibuprofen are excellent medications for fever control.

We tend to limit ibuprofen to children older than six months. Children with kidney disease, bleeding problems, or a few other chronic illnesses may not be able to take ibuprofen. If your child has a chronic disease, check with your primary care provider to see if he or she can safely take ibuprofen.

A few studies have suggested ibuprofen may be better than acetaminophen in helping to treat fevers over 102-103 F, while acetaminophen may be better for children who are also having stomach pain or upset, because ibuprofen can sometimes irritate the stomach.

Some children consistently seem to respond better to one medication than the other. Each individual illness may also respond better to a particular medication. If you get a feeling that one medication is working better than the other, use that medication.

Many medical providers recommend alternating acetaminophen and ibuprofen for better fever control. Studies suggest there may be a slight improvement in fever control when using both medications; however, there also is an increased chance the child will accidentally be given an overdose of one or both medicines, especially if more than one person is giving the child medication.

With this possible safety concern about accidental overdose, there is little benefit in using the medicines on an alternating schedule. If you choose to alternate acetaminophen and ibuprofen, alternate them every 4 hours. For example, give acetaminophen at noon, ibuprofen at 4 p.m., acetaminophen at 8 p.m., and so on. If more than one person will be giving medications, keeping a written schedule may help reduce dosing errors.

There is absolutely no evidence that giving acetaminophen and ibuprofen at the same time helps to control the fever. This practice can also lead to significant medication overdoses thus is not safe.

Dosage

Oral dosing recommendations on medication packages most often are given in weight or age ranges. This can lead to underdosing or slight over-dosing. It’s best to get a dosing chart or recommendations from your medical care provider so you can dose your child based on their current weight.

We recommend ibuprofen to be given at 10mg per kilogram of weight (about 10mg for every 2 pounds) every 6-8 hours or acetaminophen at 15mg per kilogram of weight every 4-6 hours.

Acetaminophen can also be given as a rectal suppository, but these are available in a limited selection of doses. Suppositories should not be split to modify the dose because the medication may not be suspended equally throughout the suppository, so one portion may have more medication than another. This limits the usefulness of the suppositories. It is not true that suppositories work better or faster than oral medication. Ibuprofen is not available in suppository form in the U.S.

Consult your primary care or urgent care provider to learn the safest and most effective doses to meet your child’s needs.

By Rachel Newman

Birthday Freebies!

What’s better than free stuff on your birthday? Nothing! So we’ve gathered all of the info you need to take advantage of offers from local businesses for free stuff on or around your special day. We couldn’t fit the entire list here, so visit https://neafamily.com for even more freebies. Enjoy!

Auntie Anne’s www.auntieannes.com/rewards

Sign up for Pretzel Perks and get a free pretzel on your birthday.

Barnes & Noble www.barnesandnoble.com/h/kidsclub

Members of Barnes & Noble Kids’ Club receive a free cupcake on their birthday.

California Pizza Kitchen www.cpk.com/benefits

Join the CPK Rewards program and receive a free dessert for your birthday.

The Cheesecake Factory

Chick-fil-A

www.chick-fil-a.com/one

Join Chick-fil-A One and get a food reward on your birthday (good for 30 days).

Chipotle

www.chipotle.com/rewards

Join Chipotle Rewards and receive a free gift on your birthday.

Culver’s

www.culvers.com/my-culvers

Join MyCulver’s and receive one scoop of frozen custard with two toppings for free.

Dunkin’ Donuts

www.dunkindonuts.com/en/ dunkinrewards/registration

Receive a free drink coupon on your birthday when you register for Dunkin’ DDPerks.

Iguana Mia

www.iguanamia.com/index.php/ que-pasa/birthdays-at-iguana-mia

Receive free fried ice cream if you dine in at Iguana Mia on your birthday.

IHOP

www.ihop.com/en/rewards

Become a stackholder with the International Bank of Pancakes to receive a free stack of birthday pancakes.

Kohl’s www.kohls.com/feature/rewards.jsp

Kohl’s Yes2You Rewards members receive a coupon for $5 or$10 to use in their birthday month.

Krispy Kreme

www.krispykreme.com/rewards#p1

Join the Krispy Kreme Rewards Program to receive a free doughnut on your birthday.

Jason’s Deli www.jasonsdeli.com/rewards

Enroll in Deli Dollars to get a free dessert coupon on your birthday, good for 30 days.

Nothing Bundt Cakes

www.nothingbundtcakes.com/eclub

Join Nothing Bundt Cakes’ eClub online to receive a free bundtlet during your birthday month. Valid only at the bakery where you registered.

P.F. Chang’s www.pfchangs.com/rewards

Receive a free birthday dessert when you sign up for P.F. Chang’s rewards program.

Panera

www.panerabread.com/en-us/ mypanera/meet-mypanera.html

Join MyPanera rewards program to receive a free drink or pastry on your birthday.

Starbucks www.starbucks.com/rewards

Sign up for Starbucks Reward account at least seven days before your birthday to receive one free beverage or food item.

Tropical Smoothie

www.tropicalsmoothiecafe.com/rewards

Sign up for the Tropics Rewards Program to receive a coupon for a free smoothie or menu item on your birthday.

Ulta

www.ulta.com/rewards/all

Sign up as an Ultamate Rewards member to receive a free gift, $10 coupon, and twice the amount of points during your birthday month.

Making Milestone Bir thdays Magical

By Andrea Stetson

Every birthday is a reason to celebrate. Friends, family, cake, decorations – it’s all a fun part of growing up. But there are some birthdays that are milestones, making them a special time to party.

First birthday

This is a birthday full of traditions. Many parents choose to celebrate with two cakes, one for party guests, and one for the birthday child to smash. The 1-year-old puts their face in it, grabs handfuls of cake and frosting, and makes a mess. The goal is to produce some delightfully cute photos and let the baby enjoy the feel, taste, and fun of slathering themselves with cake. Some parents create a time capsule with meaningful items and things that represent that year. That capsule can then be opened on the child’s 18th birthday to see how things have changed. First birthdays often are family oriented.

“We had a gathering at the house, and we had a little blow up pool,” said Whitney Hierro, who recently celebrated her son Wyatt’s first birthday. “We did pictures before his birthday with his smash cake.”

Hierro got a plain vanilla cake with vanilla frosting for the smash cake. “He smashed into it and absolutely hated it, which I heard is very normal because it is very sweet.”

13th birthday

For children of the Jewish faith 13 is the big milestone birthday. That is when boys have their bar mitzvahs and girls have their bat mitzvahs (the general plural term is b’nai mitzvah). The religious ceremony highlights the child’s readiness to observe religious precepts and be eligible to take part in public worship. The ceremony has many traditional rituals, including the reading of the Torah and giving a speech. This coming-of-age ritual in Judaism showcases the belief that the child is now able to be held accountable for their own actions, know Jewish ritual law, tradition, and ethics, and are able to participate in all areas of Jewish community life. The ceremony is a way to celebrate and impress upon the teenager the significance of this milestone. Traditionally the ceremony is held in a synagogue, though some opt to hold it in a private venue. After the ceremony, there usually is a celebration or reception with music, dancing, and food. The reception parties widely vary in their scale and expense, from a simple luncheon or modest buffet to elaborate multi-course events and entertainment.

Oliver Schwartz, 13, recently celebrated his bar mitzvah at Temple Shalom in Naples. It was the culmination years of preparation, beginning in the third grade when he started to learn Hebrew. Oliver led the service and the prayers, read in Hebrew from the Torah, and gave a speech. The ceremony was followed by a luncheon reception at the temple. That evening they celebrated with a large party at Tiburon Golf Club.

Oliver said he wasn’t nervous since he had lots of practice and is the third of the four children in his family to experience this milestone. “I was always waiting for it,” he said. “I was always going to ones for other relatives and for my siblings, and I always wanted to have one.”

Oliver Schwartz is hoisted in the air while guests surround him dancing a traditional dance called the Hora. Photo courtesy of Melanie Schwartz. continued on following page

continued from previous page

While the party is fun, his mother, Melanie, said that is not the highlight of the day.

“The most important part is the service,” she stressed. “A lot of families focus on the party and just use the service as an excuse for it. We loved doing the party and the dinner dance, but the service for us is very meaningful. It is a big milestone, and it is rewarding.”

While the service means Oliver is considered an adult in the community, he laughs as he says it doesn’t mean he can drink or drive or do other adult things.

“It’s an adult Jewish journey,” Oliver explained.

His journey that special day ended with the party that featured dancing, professional dancers to entertain the kids, a dessert station, lots of glow favors, and a big dinner followed by s’mores on the terrace.

A highlight of the party for Oliver was being hoisted in the air while guests surrounded him dancing a traditional dance called the Hora (see photo on page 24). “I liked going up in the chair because it was like flying,” he said.

Quinceañera

Children in the Spanish culture have to wait until they are 15 for their coming-of-age celebration. The quinceañera originated in Mexico, but is now celebrated around the world. Back in the day of the Aztecs, when a girl turned 15 she would be considered to be ready for marriage, and so the celebration was an event for a young girl turning into a women. The quinceañera is both a religious and social event that emphasizes the importance of family and society in the life of a young woman. It typically starts with a religious ceremony with blessings and a reading of a chosen passage by the birthday girl. Then it’s on to a celebration that features food, music, and dancing. The birthday girl is accompanied by her “court” of damas (girls) and chambelánes (boys).

Some of the traditions include group dances with the court, a father-daughter dance, the presentation of a doll to a younger sister to show that the birthday girl is giving up her childhood, and the placement of heeled shoes on her feet, to indicate that she is ready for womanhood.

Maria Deleon-Jose celebrated her quinceañera last year and skipped the religious ceremony, going right to the party. She said it

Photos, above: Maria Deleon-Jose chose a beautiful pink dress to wear for her quinceañera. Photo courtesy of Maria Deleon-Jose.

Right: Wyatt Hierro celebrates his first birthday with a smash cake. Photo courtesy of Whitney Hierro.

Facing page: Ella Domain and her friends celebrated her Sweet 16 in a party bus that took them to dinner, for ice cream, and for a ride around town while dancing and listening to music. Photo courtesy of Kari Domain. .

took months of planning to get the right dress, food, and activities.

“It was very fun,” Maria said. “I wore a big pink dress. In the Mexican tradition quinceañera is girls becoming young ladies.”

The quinceañera can be as big and elaborate as a wedding. Local parents on Facebook recently wrote about the huge cost of this special event.

“Between 10 to 15k so you can offer a nice trip and a photo shoot with a rented dress,” wrote Laura Ramirez. “You could do it for way less, but it’s a once-in-a-lifetime chance, so most choose the party.”

“My sister just did one for about 40k ... in Miami,” added Sulye Cruz.

“I spent $30,000 on my twins’ quinceañera,” wrote Laura Yanely Andrade.

“I am planning my daughter’s 15th and the band she wants is $8,000 for just four hours. I am thinking of getting a second job,” wrote Ruiz Nallely.

Sweet 16

Many years ago a 16-year-old would have a debutante party. This originated in the Victorian era and was the time when a teenager was presented to society in the hopes of finding a suitable mate. In older traditions, a birthday girl would sit in a chair while her father, grandfather, godfather, uncle, or brother removed her flat shoes or slippers and brought her high heels. Over time, this tradition has evolved into a Sweet 16 party. Now the coming of

age party is more a time for fun and friends.

Gisselle Crespo, owner of Memorable Mobile Parties, created a Sweet 16 event featuring a candy bar. Another client requested T-shirts and hats that the birthday girl and her friend air brushed. While big parties are popular, local teens have also found other creative ways to celebrate this milestone birthday.

Kari Domain rented a Mercedes Sprinter van and driver for her daughter Ella and 12 of Ella’s friends.

“ They listened to music in the van, and it took them to Tacos and Tequilas for dinner, and then they danced in the van,” Domain described. “Then it took them all the way to Fifth Avenue for ice cream.”

The van also made a loop through Mercato during the fourhour party.

“All the girls told me it was the best party they ever had,” said Domain.

Ella agreed.

“The music was really fun and the lights were really great. There was sparkling cider and that was fun,” she said.

Kylie Eaton doesn’t want a party for her Sweet 16 this July, so her mom is taking Kylie and her sister and Kylie’s friend on a cruise. Kylie also chose a special add on adventure to snorkel around a sunken ship during the cruise. Her mom, Cassy Eaton, said 16 is a milestone birthday and marks a time when teenagers become more independent, so she wanted to do something special.

Meet Rad Dad Adam Meistrell

Last month, we introduced a short series of articles running during the summer highlighting area “rad dads”. For July, writer Anna Snyder talked to Adam Meistrell, an artist and high school ceramics teacher.

Adam Meistrell is one of the raddest dads on the planet. He makes art, runs, cooks, laughs a lot, tells great stories, has endless energy, and is married to Monica, with whom he parents their four children with passion and gusto. In addition to running Trek and Tern Studios, through which he and his wife sell their art, Adam also teaches ceramics fulltime at Barron Collier High School.

Tell us about your life and work. My wife, Monica, and I are both artists and art teachers, and we share the adventure of having four kids together. We love to run, travel, make art, spend time with our chosen family (our dear friends), go to the beach, and camp. I would say we’re

a family of makers; we’re a very creative, passionate band of people. Trek and Tern Studios was born out of our passion to create – to make things that are both functional and inspiring – pieces of beauty that didn’t already exist in the world. How do you balance making art, family life, and teaching? Fortunately, the Venn diagram of my teaching profession and artistic profession overlap quite a lot in content. But, it is still a challenge. The timing of being a high school teacher works well for me to teach during the school day, then come home and get in my studio for two to three hours each afternoon before spending the evening with the family. I’m thankful for the relationships I’ve built with galleries around the country thanks to my graduate work in ceramics at Louisiana State University and relationship with the Archie Bray Foundation in Helena, Montana, and Companion Gallery in Humboldt, Tennessee.

What do you enjoy about teaching high school students? What is challenging?

There are a lot of challenges with teaching this generation of students, and there are a variety of reasons a high school student might not initially be excited about any given ceramics project. But, it’s the communication – the showing a student they are valuable, the noticing, the talking with them on an individual level. All of those aspects of teaching go a long way to impact student outcomes. And, it’s those relational elements inherent in teaching that I really love.

Is it a challenge to make time for a home life? Yes. There is always an understanding of there is life beyond the four walls of my classroom. And that can affect your motivation for today. I try to build that in to the length of my lessons and my overall projects and work with the students.

What is your vision for Trek and Tern Studios? I would love to, as Lorna Meade said, “cultivate my back yard” by growing our local market share here in Naples and Southwest Florida rather than

relying on only national shows to which I ship ceramics. Monica is a painter and printmaker, and her vision for our business aligns with mine; and, moreover, the look and feel of the art we create aligns with the local culture here in Naples. Both of us draw inspiration from the beauty we see in the natural world around us in Southwest Florida, and the unique ecosystems in Florida as a whole.

We’d like to make the world a more beautiful, artistic place through accessible, functional, and original pieces. Monica and I are compelled to create – it’s at the very core of who we are. We wanted to spend more time making, and so we started Trek and Tern as a means of doing that.

What do you love the most and like the least about running Trek and Tern? The process of making and creating is my favorite thing – by far. I love getting to know individuals who use and enjoy my wares. For me, marketing Trek and Tern Studios has always been a challenge. Utilizing online platforms, such as social media, feels forced and inauthentic to me, so I tend to struggle with that aspect of our business.

How do you see the process of running a business influence the process of raising your children? Monica and I have individual studios in our home, and our children often spend time with us while we are making art. Our children sometimes talk with us as we make, and sometimes they participate by making their own art alongside of us. Often, we are discussing our work –what needs to be packed and shipped, what events or shows we are applying to, what we’re inspired by or working on.

We try to share our work with our kids; they are wonderfully perceptive of the changes we make within each body of work. They see how our work has changed over time. We have an ability to speak into our children as they home in on what they’re passionate about and what they want to pursue. We chat about the cost of materials and shipping, along with the value of our time and pricing our work appropriately. But we also emphasize the value of time playing and pursuing creativity and growth.

What advice would you give other dads about starting and running a business? I have been keenly aware that

my kids are young for only a short period of time; I have spent more time focusing on them than my business. I have better relationships with my kids, but I’m also further behind in my business than I would like to be. As a father, the balance of finding time with our kids is always worth it, but I would love to show them what it is to have a greater amount of success in my business and invite them to share in and celebrate that success together as a family.

How do you and your wife balance making art? How do you inspire each other? We’ve both carved out spaces in our home for our own separate studios. We make it a point to seek out what each other is doing in our current studio practices and give each other ample time to make. We chat often and habitually encourage one another; we share household tasks equally. We love to be outside as much as possible, and we both exercise regularly, which is so important. Monica paints Florida wildlife, landscapes, and

custom portraits, along with other more abstract and surreal subject matter, and I exclusively make ceramic wares. However, from time to time, we will collaborate on pieces, which I love!

Beyond that rhythm of daily life, Monica and I go on lots of dates and trips where we can see and discuss art that others make. For our 15th wedding anniversary last summer, we traveled to Portugal and experienced the everyday, functional art present in a handful of Portugal’s cities. We go camping in various places in Florida, and we take every opportunity to move past the ordinary and experience adventure as a family.

Our art is part of our family culture, and as a Floridian dad, I see inspiration everywhere I go. I’m thankful for the time I get to spend during the day creating wares for people across the country.

To check out Adam’s (and Monica’s) artwork, visit www.adammeistrell.com.

Facing page: The Meistrell family (L-R), Jane (14), Ella (13), Monica, Adam, Asher (10), and Anders (7). Above, top: Monica Meistrell’s painting, Last Light – 10,000 Islands Diptych. Above, bottom: A detail of an Azulejos Vase, created by Adam Meistrell. Photos courtesy of Adam Meistrell.