Neapolitan Family May 2015 by Neapolitan Family

May 2015 neafamily.com

COMPLIMENTARY

VACATION BIBLE SCHOOL DIRECTORY MOTHER’S DAY BRUNCH OPTIONS TAKING WATER SAFETY SERIOUSLY CCPS’S TESTING UPDATE

Happy Mother’s Day!

NEAPOLITANfamily • May 2015

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Nicaea Academy is the best independent faith based school serving Naples, Bonita, Cape Coral, and surrounding areas! Founded in 1996 by faith education missionaries, the Academy is an interdenominational, independent faith based school dedicated to providing our students with the winning tools necessary to build a firm foundation of academic and moral excellence. We accept McKay, Step Up For Students and C-4 Scholarships. Offering Daycare • Preschool • VPK• Elementary, Middle and High School

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NEAPOLITANfamily • May 2015

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MAY 2015 TABLE OF CONTENTS

in every issue . . .

ON THE COVER

ONLINE THIS MONTH AT NEAFAMILY.COM

FROM THE PUBLISHER

REEL LIFE WITH JANE Family Movie Reviews

COLLIER COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOLS NEWS

COLLIER COUNTY SCHOOL BOARD NEWS

CITY CONNECTION City of Naples Parks Department News and Events

COMMUNITY EVENTS

CENTERFOLD CALENDAR

MAY EVENTS

on the cover…

CELEBRATE

Mom!

features… 10 The Mother’s Day Gift. A brown paper box serves as a reminder to one mother of how much she is loved. by Alyssa Chirco 40 Mother’s Day Brunch and Breakfast Options plus a few freebies for mom! by Stacy Nicolau

Alexa Parsons is six years old and a first grader at Laurel Oak Elementary. She has a younger brother, Sean who is five years old. Her parents, Kevin and Colleen relocated to Naples two years ago from Central Florida and their entire family is happy to call Southwest Florida home.

16 2015

Vacation Bible School Directory

44 Visiting the City by the Bay. A family vacation in San Francisco will create memories for a lifetime. by Andrea Breznay

42 Taking Water Safety Seriously. The nine layers of water safety plus information on why you should consider a lifeguard at your next pool party. by Leigh Ann Newman

Cover photo by Peggy Farren of Avant Garde Photography • (239) 263-7001 CEDR 1003 NeaFamily 1-4 pg Horiz.4_Layout 1 2/18/13 9:45 AM Page 1

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

Maria Montessori

inspiring the love of learning since 1984 NEAPOLITANfamily • May 2015

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online MAY

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This month’s web-only articles: • Mother’s Day You’ll find Mother’s Day gift ideas mom will love, crafts you can make and celebration ideas. • Web Only Contest Check the contest page for information on our May “web-only” contest. Are you on Pinterest? Follow us for awesome pins on topics of interest to you including decorating, holidays, crafts, parenting, travel and more. We’re at www.pinterest.com/ neapolitanfam/

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

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

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from the publisher…

the parenting magazine devoted to collier county

THIS MONTH: Give Mom the attention this month!

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

Editorial Submissions are welcome. We reserve the right to edit, reject or comment editorially on all material contributed. We cannot be responsible for return of any unsolicited materials. Articles and advertisements in Neapolitan Family do not necessarily reflect the opinion of the publisher nor does the publisher assume responsibility for statements made by our advertisers or editorial contributors. Acceptance of advertising by Neapolitan Family does not constitute an endorsement of the products, services or information. We do not knowingly present any product or service which is fraudulent or misleading in nature. Neapolitan Family is available free of charge at over 275 distribution points throughout Collier County as well as digitally at www.neafamily.com. Neapolitan Family is ©2015 by Neapolitan Publishing Co., LLC. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part without written permission is strictly prohibited. NEAPOLITANfamily • May 2015

I love Mother’s Day because I so love being a mother. To those of you with little ones who are worrying that your children are growing too fast and motherhood will end far too soon, let me assure you that it gets better and better! Each stage is more fun than the last and when they are grown–as mine is–the feeling of accomplishment, love and gratitude that you feel is boundless. Enjoy every step of the journey because motherhood truly is the best journey you’ll ever undertake. Ask any mother what her favorite Mother’s Day gift is and it’s likely that she’ll mention a handwritten card–complete with misspellings and backward letters. Or, it might be a misshapen bowl or macaroni covered box. For Alyssa Chirco it’s the box her daughter’s gift came in–their sweet story appears on page 10. I have several special Mother’s Day tokens from when my daughter was younger, the most treasured is a sculpture of a mother and child she made in grade school. It holds a prominent place in my home among other irreplaceable symbols of my family and friends where it reminds me daily of the people I treasure. May is traditionally our Vacation Bible School Directory and this month is no exception–you’ll find it on pages 16-17. We also have some wise words from the graduating class of 2015 on page 12 and updates on the state of testing in CCPS’s on pages 14-15. Plus, Stacy Nicolau pulled together the best brunch options for Mother’s Day plus a few freebies for mom to enjoy on her special day. To round things off this month, you’ll find an article about vacationing in San Francisco. It’s a city I love and visit often and it’s perfect for families. If you haven’t made summer plans yet, check out the article–I promise you one of your best vacations ever! Happy Mother’s Day!

Andrea Breznay Publisher Seeking Equity Partner Neapolitan Family is interested in expanding! We are seeking a working, equity partner to be a part of the exciting developments. The right person will have a business background as well as marketing and sales experience and live in Collier County. A financial investment is required. For more information, please call Andrea at 239-514-0338. neafamily.com

REEL LIFE WITH JANE

By Jane Louise Boursaw

Family Movie & DVD Reviews M

ay always marks the beginning of the big summer tentpole movies, and this year is no exception. “Avengers: Age of Ultron,” “Tomorrowland,” and “Pitch Perfect 2” are all headed to the big screen. Here’s a sneak peek at what’s new in theaters and on DVD and Blu-ray this month. Note that release dates are subject to change. AVENGERS: AGE OF ULTRON Not yet rated; likely PG-13 • In Theaters 5/1 Ok for Kids 13+ Reel Preview: 4.5 of 5 Reels This epic follow-up to the biggest superhero movie of all time finds Tony Stark (Robert Downey, Jr.) trying to jumpstart a dormant peacekeeping program. But things go awry and Earth’s mightiest heroes, including Iron Man, Captain America (Chris Evans), Thor (Chris Hemsworth), The Incredible Hulk (Mark Ruffalo), Black Widow (Scarlett Johansson) and Hawkeye (Jeremy Renner), are put to the ultimate test as the fate of the planet hangs in

the balance. When the villainous Ultron (James Spader) emerges, it’s up to The Avengers to stop him, as uneasy alliances form. Along with Nick Fury (Samuel L. Jackson) and Cobie Smulders (Agent Maria Hill), the team reassemble to defeat the terrifying techno-villain. Along the way, they encounter two powerful newcomers, Wanda Maximoff (Elizabeth Olsen) and Pietro Maximoff (Aaron Taylor-Johnson), and meet an old friend in a new form known as Vision (Paul Bettany).

PITCH PERFECT 2 PG-13 for innuendo and language In Theaters 5/15 • Ok for Kids 13+ Universal • Reel Preview: 4.5 of 5 Reels The Barden Bellas are back in this follow-up to 2012’s smash hit. This time, the collegiate a cappella group is singing in an international competition that no American team has ever won. Directed by Elizabeth Banks, co-star and producer of “Pitch Perfect,” the movie stars Brittany Snow, Anna Kendrick, Katey Sagal, Anna Camp, Rebel Wilson, Alexis Knaff, Adam DeVine and Hailee Steinfeld.

TOMORROWLAND Not yet rated; likely PG-13 In Theaters 5/22 • Ok for Kids 12+ Reel Preview: 4 of 5 Reels From Disney comes two-time Oscar winner Brad Bird’s riveting adventure starring Academy Award winner George Clooney. Bound by a shared destiny, former boy-genius Frank (Clooney), jaded by disillusionment, and Casey (Britt Robertson), a bright, optimistic teen bursting with scientific curiosity, embark on a danger-filled mission to unearth the secrets of an enigmatic place somewhere in time and space known only as “Tomorrowland.” What they must do there changes the world - and them - forever. Also stars Judy Greer, Tim McGraw, Hugh Laurie, and Kathryn Hahn.

FAR FROM THE MADDING CROWD PG-13 for some sexuality and violence In Theaters 5/1 • Ok for Kids 13+ Reel Preview: 4 of 5 Reels Based on the literary classic by Thomas Hardy, this romantic drama is directed by Thomas Vinterberg and follows the story of independent, beautiful and headstrong Bathsheba Everdene (Carey Mulligan), who attracts three

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NEAPOLITANfamily • May 2015

very different suitors: Gabriel Oak (Matthias Schoenaerts), a sheep farmer, captivated by her fetching willfulness; Frank Troy (Tom Sturridge), a handsome and reckless Sergeant; and William Boldwood (Michael Sheen), a prosperous and mature bachelor. This timeless story of Bathsheba’s choices and passions explores the nature of relationships and love – as well as the ability to overcome hardships through resilience and perseverance.

SAN ANDREAS Not yet rated; likely PG-13 In Theaters 5/29 • Ok for Kids 13+ Reel Preview: 4 of 5 Reels It’s been a while since we’ve had a good disaster movie, and I love disaster movies! Especially starring Dwayne Johnson! After the infamous San Andreas Fault finally gives, triggering a magnitude 9 earthquake in California, a search and rescue helicopter pilot (Johnson) and his estranged wife (Carla Gugino) make their way together from Los Angeles to San Francisco to save their only daughter (Alexandra Daddario). But their treacherous journey north is only the beginning. Directed by Brad Peyton (“Journey 2: The Mysterious Island”), this action thriller also stars Kylie Minogue, Ioan Gruffudd, Archie Panjabi and Paul Giamatti.

NEW ON DVD/BLU-RAY: SCOOBY-DOO: 13 SPOOKY TALES SURF’S UP SCOOBY-DOO! Not Rated • On DVD 5/5 Ok for Kids 4+ • Reel Review: 3.5 of 5 Reels For Scooby-Doo, Shaggy and the rest of the crime-busting crew, life is never a day at the beach. So when the gang go to a Florida resort for a much-needed vacation, they kick back and enjoy some sun, sand and ... a sea monster! When a weird water creature causes trouble in paradise by stealing precious jewels, the Scooby Gang will either sink or swim to solve the case. Also, Scooby makes a splash in

12 more fun-filled summertime episodes full of oceanic oddities, aquatic apparitions and haunted lighthouses.

SESAME STREET: ELMO THE MUSICAL, VOL. 2 LEARN & IMAGINE Not Rated • On DVD 5/5 • Ok for Kids 5+ Reel Review: 4 of 5 Reels • Volume 2 of Elmo’s math-filled musicals is packed with seven all-new to DVD episodes. Elmo is “The Countby-Two Kid” in his own cowboy musical. Will he be able to escort six kittycows through a canyon to the Double Double Dude Dude Ranch Ranch? (No, that’s not a typo!) Then Elmo dons a detective hat to investigate the secret behind all the sneezing. With more than two hours of music, adventure, math, friendship and fun, little learners will love to sing along. Includes the bonus full-length video, “Play With Me Sesame: Imagine With Me.”

MICKEY MOUSE CLUBHOUSE: MINNIE’S PET SALON Not Rated • On DVD 5/19 • Ok for Kids 3+ Reel Review: 3 of 5 Reels This sweet DVD from Mickey Mouse Clubhouse includes five episodes from the Disney Jr. cartoon: 1) Minnie’s Pet Salon - The friends prepare for Pluto’s All-Star Pet Show; 2) Daisy’s Pet Project - Daisy must choose a pet for the Pet Parade; 3) Pluto’s Puppy-Sitting Adventure - Clarabelle’s puppy, Bella, gets a sitter; 4) Donald’s Ducks - Donald helps some ducks get to the beach; and 5) Pluto Lends a Paw - Minnie’s cat Figaro is missing and Mickey and Pluto help find him.

MAYA THE BEE MOVIE Rated G • On DVD & Blu-ray 5/19 Ok for Kids 4+ • Reel Review: 4.5 of 5 Reels From the awesome folks at Shout! Factory comes freshly hatched bee Maya (voiced by Coco Jack Gillies), a little whirlwind who simply won’t follow the rules of the hive, including never trust the hornets who live beyond the meadow. When the Royal Jelly is stolen, the hornets are the prime suspects and Maya is thought to be their accomplice. Now, it’s up to Maya and her good-natured best friend Willy (Kodi Smit-McPhee) to prove her innocence and find the missing Royal Jelly! Also features the voices of Jackie Weaver, Noah Taylor and Richard Roxburgh.

LOONEY TUNES: MUSICAL MASTERPIECES Not Rated • On DVD 5/26 • Ok for Kids 3+ Reel Review: 4 of 5 Reels • No one does cartoon music better than Looney Tunes, and this DVD includes 18 music-themed “Looney Tunes” shorts, including “A Corny Concerto,” “Rabbit Of Seville,” “What’s Opera, Doc?,” “Katnip Kollege,” “Pigs In A Polka,” and more from stars Bugs Bunny, Daffy Duck, Porky Pig, and others. Bonus features include “It Hopped One Night: The Story Behind One Froggy Evening” and Wagnerian Rabbit: The Making of What’s Opera, Doc?” Classic stuff for kids to enjoy with the grownups in their lives. JANE’S REEL RATING SYSTEM One Reel – Even the Force can’t save it. Two Reels – Coulda been a contender Three Reels – Something to talk about. Four Reels – You want the truth? Great flick! Five Reels – Wow! The stuff dreams are made of.

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HAPPY, HEALTHY FAMILY

By Alyssa Chirco

The Mother’s Day Gift A

few years ago for Mother’s Day, my eight-year-old daughter gave me a handmade clay bowl. It was a school art project, as Mother’s Day gifts often are, the kind students make every spring after receiving careful instruction from their teachers to create gifts worthy of the mothers who care for them each day. Unfortunately, I wasn’t exactly sure what to do with the piece of misshapen pottery that my daughter presented to me with such excitement. It was, after all, painted in flamboyant shades of pink and what I can only suspect is chartreuse. The bowl now sits in my closet, collecting dust and holding a random collection of earrings and necklaces that I never seem to wear. I loved the gift, of course, in the way that all mothers love the sloppy handmade creations we are so blessed to receive from our kids. But it was the box my Mother’s Day bowl arrived in which turned out to be the keepsake I’ll treasure forever. It’s a plain, brown, cardboard box, nothing special, but my daughter decorated it with hearts, and wrote my name on it and shared a special, heartfelt message – complete with second grade spelling – just for me. It says: “Somtimes you are meen. But I still love you.” Not exactly a Hallmark card, I know. My initial reaction to this backhanded declaration of affection was to stifle a laugh.

But I have to admit that I cringed inwardly a bit too. Kids have a knack for hitting us where it hurts, and reminding us at the very moments when we are trying to celebrate our successes (hello, Mother’s Day?) that we have plenty of failures mixed in too. My daughter is right. Sometimes, I am mean. Sometimes I yell, and sometimes I lose my temper. Sometimes, I make her clean her bedroom or, when I’m feeling particularly evil, the bathroom toilets. I may be the mom, but even mothers, after all, are only human. I can think of plenty of gifts that I would like to receive for Mother’s Day this year. For instance, I wouldn’t turn down an all-inclusive resort vacation in the Bahamas. In lieu of that, I would certainly accept a massage, a champagne brunch or the opportunity to occasionally hear myself think. A few hours alone to catch up on the final season of Mad Men would also suffice. But in the end (and those of you desperately shopping for Mother’s Day gifts take note), moms don’t really care about the stuff. We don’t need an expensive meal or a fancy bouquet of flowers or a sentimental, store bought greeting card that somehow doesn’t quite ring true. We do, however, want to know that we are genuinely appreciated, and that our sacrifices and sleepless nights haven’t gone entirely unnoticed. Most of us struggle with endless

guilt, constantly wondering if we are doing enough for our children and agonizing over the many imperfections we see in ourselves. We are doing our best. And we just want confirmation that our best is good enough. This is why, when it comes to Mother’s Day gifts, moms appreciate bear hugs and sloppy kisses and time spent together more than anything else you could give us. It’s why we treasure the handmade cards and not-so-artistic art projects that are always made with such loving care. It’s why we keep them, even when we have no idea what to do with them. It’s why I have chosen to keep my brown cardboard box forever. We don’t get too many people in our lives who still love us even when they have seen us at our worst. If we are lucky, our children are some of those people. While my daughter’s Mother’s Day message may have been unconventional, in its own unique way, it was also a declaration of her unconditional love. Even when I’m “meen,” she still kind of likes me. And having a daughter who loves and appreciates me despite my flaws? That’s a Mother’s Day gift that is absolutely priceless. ALYSSA CHIRCO is a freelance writer who contributes to a variety of regional and national publications.

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

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

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Family Friendly Theatre! Presented by KidzAct Youth Theatre of The Naples Players

May 22 & 23 • 7:30 pm, May 24 • 2:00 pm

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

Wildcat basketball star Troy Bolton and brainiac Gabriella Montez raise eyebrows among their friends when they decide to audition for the high school musical. The students of East High must decide whether to stick to the status quo or break free to find out what’s truly important. Tickets $20 for adults and $10 for children • Blackburn Hall

Auditions!

Legally Blonde: May 2, ages 14-18 Doo-Wop Wed Widing hood: May 6 & 8, ages 9-14 Alice in Wonderland: May 6 & 8, ages 9-14 For audition appointment call 239-434-7340, ext. 10 or 39

Summer Fun!

Summer Theatre Camps 4 sessions for ages 5 -18

MCNA and CMS insurance accepted.

NEAPOLITANfamily • May 2015

Session 1: June 4 - 12* Session 2: June 15 - 26 Session 3: June 29 - July 10 Session 4: July 13 - 24 *

at a reduced rate

To register by credit card, 239-434-7340, ext. 10 Scholarships available.

All tickets can be purchased at The Naples Players box office, 701 5th Avenue South 239-263-7990

Naples Players Youth Theatre

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COLLIER COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOLS

By Katie Tanner

Wise Words from the

Class of 2015

loved high school. I can easily say those years were some of the best in my life. I cherish the memories made at the many dances, pep rallies, and school choir trips. I can visually remember riding on our freshman class float during the homecoming parade. I remember the exact moment of my senior year that I slapped my painted hand on the wall of the cafeteria to leave my mark as the Class of 2000. (Yes, I just revealed my age.) I have a family friend to thank for my great high school adventure. As a graduating senior, she gave me some sound advice as I was about to enter my freshman year. Get involved. Now, with the Class of 2015 about to walk across that stage, I want to give them a chance to offer advice to those about to embark on their high school journey.

What advice would you give to those just starting their high school career? “Balancing school, sports, and clubs taught me to manage time efficiently, which will serve me the rest of my life.” Christy Thorstenson, Lely High School “Actually know what your graduation requirements are; make sure to have a balance between what you need and what you like; find something that you like so that you can use it for the future.” Claudia Lopez, Palmetto Ridge High School “Challenge yourself in class and embrace learning about what you love. Most importantly: DON’T SETTLE EVER.” Elizabeth Roux, Gulf Coast High School “Be nice to everyone, you never know who you’ll need later.” Jorquel Condomina, Golden Gate High School

“I would also tell them to work on their time management as it can be a bit stressful to juggle all the responsibilities that come with being a teenager.” Leidy Gomez, Golden Gate High School “You can get caught up with the amount of freedom you have. Staying on top of your grades is very important, especially freshman year.” Jennifer Dugue, Naples High School

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NEAPOLITANfamily • May 2015

“Choose classes that will challenge you, but that will allow you to succeed. Once you receive a grade in a class it’s on your transcript and could make or break what college you end up attending.” Eleanor Rushing, Naples High School “I’d also advise to begin to plan and construct a resume. It’s better to be early than on time.” Yesenia Lopez, Immokalee High School What will you miss the most about your time in high school? “The friendships you build in high school are some that you won’t forget. Not just with peers, but also teachers. That is definitely what I’ll miss the most.” Leidy Gomez, Golden Gate High School “What I will miss most about my time in high school are all the friendships I have made and all the teachers who have helped prepare me for my future endeavors.” Klea Agollari, Barron Collier High School

If you could do high school over again, would you do anything differently? “If anything, I wish I knew to stay true to what I wanted – not trying to conform to what others wanted, because when you do that, you aren’t happy; but I learned from the experiences of that, and it got me to where I am today.” Kayla Harsh, Palmetto Ridge High School “Looking back, there’s the obvious, get a better grade, don’t trip up the stairs and have half of the school see, and to challenge myself more. But reflecting, high school is meant for mistakes. Taking a cumulative view of my experience, the mistakes I made challenged me. They molded me into the individual I am today.” Cameron Absher, Gulf Coast High School “If I could do high school all over again I would study more, organize my time and spend more time with my family.” Jenny Herard, Golden Gate High School

“If I could do high school over again, I would make sure to get involved sooner. I found all of my interests my senior year, and I wish I had discovered them earlier on.” Aubrey Howard, Naples High School “If I could do high school over again, I would not do anything differently because although there may have been times where everything was not perfect, I definitely learned from those experiences. When I reflect on my four years of high school I remember the good friendships, projects, sporting events, teachers, and memories that I never want to change.” Klea Agollari, Barron Collier High School “I would be more involved, and take more time to complete my assignments. Take my classes more seriously.” Yesenia Lopez, Immokalee High School We wish all of our graduating seniors the best of luck in their next adventure. Keep up the hard work and stay involved in what you are passionate about.

& Minecraft Summer Camps! June - August 2015

KiDsTek LEGO

& MINECRaFT

summer camp is back!

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

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

NEAPOLITANfamily • May 2015

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COLLIER COUNTY SCHOOL BOARD UPDATE

By Erika Donalds

Testing . . . 1, 2, 3 . . . Testing

he word “testing” invokes an emotional reaction from each one of us – those emotions could include memories of nervousness from your own childhood, sympathy for a child who struggles, joy from that passing grade, or relief when your children do well. Many of your students in Collier County public schools recently have taken or currently are taking standardized tests, and no topic has received more attention in the education policy arena this year than concerns about excessive high stakes and overtesting. The state legislature responded, in part, to parent and teacher concerns, but there is still more to be addressed.

Florida’s standardized testing program has been credited as the catalyst to our state’s well-recognized rise in education performance relative to other states during the late 1990s and early 2000s. “Accountability” in education, the idea that schools, districts, educators, and students should be held responsible for academic results, has support from both sides of the political aisle in our state and nationwide. There are three categories of accountability or “high stakes” High stakes for students: State law requires students to demonstrate reading proficiency in order to pass from third to fourth grade, and later, show a certain level of ability in math and reading before graduation.

High stakes for teachers: Currently, 50% of a teacher’s evaluation is based on growth in student proficiency measured by state test scores. A bill just passed in the legislature will soon reduce this percentage to 33%.

High stakes for the schools and districts: Each school and district is assigned an annual A-F “grade” from the state, and higher grades mean more state funding. Being an “A” district also makes the area more attractive in which to live, which increases property values and tax revenues. With so much at stake, it is no wonder that students, teachers and districts are laser-focused on increasing test performance beginning in January of each school

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NEAPOLITANfamily • May 2015

year. However, many parents are troubled that there is too much emphasis on test scores and that ‘teaching-to-the-test’ has become unavoidable. I share this concern, having experienced it with my own son. Fellow parents and I were disheartened to see time spent on testing pep rallies and music videos, third grade study packets sent home over spring break, and weeks of instruction time devoted to test prep. Many more parents across the state expressed these concerns to the legislature, which provoked some promising changes this session. First, the new state standardized test, the Florida Standards Assessment (FSA), which has replaced the FCAT, must now be verified by an independent third party to ensure the test is valid and reliable before our students will be held accountable for the test results. Also, the 11th grade English Language Arts (ELA) assessment has been eliminated, since a passing grade on the 10th grade ELA test is necessary for graduation. Districts will no longer be required to give local standardized tests in every course offered (only the ones required by the state), and separate remediation courses in middle school will not be mandatory for students who struggled on the test (this decision can now be left up to the parents and teachers who know those students needs best). These measures, which are effective immediately, are certainly moving us in the right direction. Most people agree that students should not be passed from one grade to the next without proving a basic level of knowledge in critical subjects such as reading, writing, and mathematics. The success of Florida’s efforts to end this practice of social promotion has been replicated across the country. However, education stakeholders made clear and the legislature agreed that the pendulum swung may have swung too far and changes are necessary. We cannot allow this test-focused culture to take the creativity out of teaching and inhibit educators’ capacity to meet the unique needs of each child. As we wrap up another testing season, we must consider how Florida’s assessments are affecting our students and their futures, both positively and negatively. We must also seek to balance the need for both accountability to high standards of academic excellence, and flexibility for teachers who know our students best.

“…more parents across the state expressed these concerns to the legislature, which provoked some promising changes this session.”

I encourage you to share your testing experiences with me on Facebook, or by email at donale@collierschools.com. I will be working with our legislators over the coming months to provide an on-the-ground, parent’s perspective on testing issues and will help to craft solutions for the benefit of our students. NEAPOLITANfamily • May 2015

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Vacation Bible School DIRECTORY

If you are looking for a few days of Christian education for your child, you’re sure to find a program that will meet your needs. Programs are either free of charge or low cost to congregants and guests of the religious institutions listed in our guide. Programs fill up quickly; be sure to call for more information and to register as early as possible.

Center Point Community Church 6590 Golden Gate Parkway, Naples VBS is a week-long event in the summer for Kindergarten through 5th grade students. It is “highenergy” and includes a Bible lesson, music, games, crafts and a missionary story. DATE: June 15-19 CONTACT: Sue Nite at sue@cpccnaples.org or 239-261-7486 Cornerstone United Methodist Church 8200 Immokalee Rd., Naples VBS is from August 3-August 7 from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. for kids ages 3 years to rising 5th graders. The cost is $15 for the first child and $10 for each additional child. Every child who pre-registers gets a t-shirt and every family gets a CD. Registration opens May 4th and closes July 3rd. DATE: July 28-August 1, 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. CONTACT: dominiquenash@cornerstonenaples. org or (239) 354-9160. Covenant Church of Naples 6926 Trail Blvd., Naples At the amazing SonSpark Labs, children will explore God’s life-changing plan as they find out the answers to life’s most important questions. VBS is from for kids ages 3 years to rising 6th graders. DATE: June 22-26 from 8:45 a.m. to 12 p.m. CONTACT: (239) 597-3464 or www.covenantnaples.com. East Naples Baptist Church 2701 Airport Pulling Road South, Naples Free VBS with the theme of “Bible Blast to the Past: Discover God’s Everlasting Love.” Before and after care available. Register online at www.enaples. org. Once at the website there is a panel on the left side for VBS – follow the link that says “Click Here to Register Now!” DATE: July 27-31, 9 a.m. to noon CONTACT: (239) 774-4696 East Naples United Methodist Church 1697 Shadowlawn Dr., Naples Journey Off The Map: Discover the vastness of God’s love and enjoyed themed music, games, crafts and snacks. Register online at www.eastnaplesbaptist.org. Free for children and adults. DATE: July 19-July 24 from 6 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. CONTACT: Becky Fager at (239) 774-1282 or enbc_office@eastnaplesbaptist.org

Registration is now open!

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

239.597.3464

Covenant Church of Naples

6926 Trail Blvd., Naples, FL 34108 • www.covenantnaples.com 16

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NEAPOLITANfamily • May 2015

East Naples Baptist Church 1697 Shadowlawn Dr., Naples Journey Off The Map: Discover the vastness of God’s love and enjoy themed music, games, crafts and snacks. Register online at www.eastnaplesbaptist.org. Free for children and adults. DATE: July 19-July 24 from 6 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. CONTACT: Becky Fager at (239) 774-1282 or enbc_office@eastnaplesbaptist.org Emmanuel Lutheran 777 Mooring Line Drive, Naples Free VBS, “A Love That Never Ends,” for children who have completed grades K-5. Register online at www.NaplesEmmanuel.org DATE: June 8-12, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., June 11 from 5:00 p.m.-8:00 p.m. CONTACT: (239) 261-0894 Faith Bible Church Naples 6464 Immokalee Road, Naples Welcome to Camp Kilimanjaro, where children will have an epic expedition through the book of Proverbs. Set a compass for Africa and prepare for an epic expedition at Camp Kilimanjaro VBS. DATE: June 8-12 CONTACT: (239) 514-4986 or www.faithnaples.com First Baptist Church 3000 Orange Blossom Dr., Naples VBS is for children entering Kindergarten through rising 5th graders. Children will learn to conquer challenges with God’s power. Register online at www.fbcn.org/vbs. DATE: June 8-12; 9 a.m. to 12:15 p.m. CONTACT: Nancy Hale at (239) 596-8600, ext. 350 or nhale@fbcn.org First Presbyterian Church 250 Sixth Street South, Naples Join VBS for a trip to Mt. Everest where children will conquer challenges with God’s mighty power. Children must be 3 years old and potty trained through completed 5th grade. $25 for first child, $15 for each additional sibling, maximum of $50. DATE: July 6-10; 9 a.m. to noon CONTACT: (239) 262-1311 www.fpcnaples.org Grace Lutheran Church 860 Banyan Blvd., Naples Free family focused weekend VBS open to all ages. VBS will be held Friday evening, Saturday, and

Sunday morning. DATES: August 3-7; 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. CONTACT: Call Kami at (239) 261-7421, ext. 7 or email dce@graceofnaples.org Moorings Presbyterian Church 791 Harbour Drive, Naples For children aged 4 by Sept 1 through completed 5th grade. $35 per child. Register online at www. mooringschurch.org. DATE: June 15-19 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. CONTACT: (239) 261-1487 Naples Christian Church 8000 Goodlette Rd. N., Naples Free VBS for children 4 yrs–5th grade, where kids learn to overcome obstacles with God’s power. DATE: July 6-10, 9am-12:30pm (includes lunch) CONTACT: www.napleschristian.org or 597-4411 Naples Church of Christ 12760 Livingston Road, Naples The International Spy Academy is a program filled with fun mysteries your kids will love and the Biblebased stories they won’t forget. DATE: Juune 21-23; 6:30 PM to 8:30 PM CONTACT: (239) 455-5252 or www.napleschurchofchrist.com Naples SDA Church 5050 Davis Blvd., Naples This year’s theme is “Everest: Conquering Challenges With God’s Mighty Power.” Register at www. groupvbspro.com/vbs/ez/NaplesSDA. DATE: Juune 21-23; 6:30 PM to 8:30 PM CONTACT: Michelle Crombie (239) 272-8031 New Life Church 10000 Airport Road North, Naples Journey Off the Map free VBS for all kids 4 years of age through 5th grade. Extended care is available for a small fee. Camp includes a rock climbing wall, water day and a visit from LSCO. DATE: Juune 22-26; 6:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. CONTACT: Kerri Hall at kerri.lynn.hall@gmail. com or www.nlcbonita.com. North Naples Baptist Church 1811 Oakes Blvd., Naples 239-261-7486 ”Journey Off the Map” VBS open to ages 3 through adult. VBS includes Bible stories, music, drama, games, snacks, crafts and mission storiesRegistration info at www.nnbc.net.

DATE: June 8-12, 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. CONTACT: (239) 597-2201 or email Gayle at gayle@nnbc.net Our Savior Lutheran Church 10000 Airport Road North, Naples The sessions are open to children ages 3 through 8th grade. More information is available at www. oursaviornaples.org. DATE: July6-10; 9 a.m. to noon CONTACT: (239) 597-4091 St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church 625 111th Avenue North, Naples Come climb the mountain with the help of God’s Love, open to children ages 4 through 5th grade. $25 registration until May 18. $30 late registration until May 24. Sign up online at: http://sjecc.com DATE: June 8-12 CONTACT: (239) 566-8740 Salvation Army, Naples 3180 Estey Avenue, Naples Free VBS open to children ages 5-12. Activities will include crafts, music and games. DATE: June 8-12; 9 a.m. to noon CONTACT: (239) 775-9447 San Marco Catholic Church 851 San Marco Road, Marco Island www.sanmarcochurch.com Free VBS for all ages. DATES: July 6-10 9 a.m. to noon CONTACT: Kim Adamason at (239) 394-5181 Vanderbilt Presbyterian Church 1225 Piper Blvd., Naples, www.vpcnaples.org. Children 3 years of age through rising 5th graders are welcome to join this VBS for crafts, songs, games, and snacks. DATES: July 20-24 from 9 a.m. to noon CONTACT: (239) 597-5410, ext. 201 Wesley Methodist Church 350 S. Barfield Road, Marco Island Fine Arts Bible School with limited space available. Free for ages 5-12. Check the website for registration information. DATES: June 8-12, 9 a.m. to noon CONTACT: Betsy Francis at (239) 394-3734 or dcebetz@gmail.com www.wesleymarco.org

Vacation Bible School Open to children ages 3 through rising 5th Graders

Download a registration form at: www.vpcnaples.org Call Katy De Sousa at (239) 597-5410 ext. 311 for info July 20-24 from 9 a.m. to noon Located at 1225 Piper Blvd., Naples NEAPOLITANfamily • May 2015

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CITY CONNECTION PARKS DEPT. By Laura Tichy-Smith

May fun come your way this month!

dates and registration information, call (239) 213-3020, or visit ww.naplesgov. com, click on “Parks and Recreation” under the Departments tab, and click on the summer program guide for more information.

The Adventures and Gymnastics Club at Fleischmann Park (1600 Fleishmann Blvd., Naples) offers great fun with many activity choices for your child at this afterschool club hosted by an energetic, well-trained staff. Your child will participate in gymnastics and sports fitness classes as well as daily homework and enrichment time. Monday to Friday, 2:45 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. (also open on all early release days). $50 per week for first child and $45 per week for siblings. Inquire for partial week rates. Call (239) 248-6122 to register.

Last Chance! Free Concert at the Bandshell

Mother’s Day at Venetian Village

Concert season wraps up in May with this event your whole family will enjoy. Bring a blanket and enjoy the final jazz concert in Cambier Park (755 Eighth Avenue South, Naples) for this season with the Naples Dixieland Jazz Band, Sunday, May 3 from 2:00 p.m. to 4 p.m. For more information, call (239) 213-3058.

The Village at Venetian Bay (4200 Gulf Shore Blvd N., Naples) is offering a fashion walk and refreshments on behalf of the Susan G. Komen Foundation of Southwest Florida on Sunday, May 9 from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. For more information, call (239) 403-2218.

tart planning your kids’ super-fun summer now by enrolling your children in Naples City Parks’ exciting themed specialty camps, as well as marking your calendar for free special family events offered by the City of Naples Community Services Department and commuorganizations. Summer Camps for Children Ages 3 to 18 With an astonishing variety of themes offered at nine park locations, you’re sure to find a day camp to please every child in your household. While the camps are educational, your kids will be having so much hands-on fun they won’t even realize they are really learning. The weekday camps run while school is out from June to August and include offerings for children interested in nature and junior naturalist research; arts and crafts; theater, stage magic, dance and performance; scientific exploration; computer skills for web design, movie, and video game design; aquatics and snorkeling; and nearly any sport or outdoor recreation interest you can imagine. For a brochure about the summer camps with

Afterschool Solutions

nity

Happy kids. Sparkly smiles.

Try it at our office!

ZOOBY Exclusively marketed by Denticator™

Dr. Marilyn C. Sandor, DDS, MS, PA

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Naples Pediatric Dentistry www.goodcheckup.com

239.592.0800

NEAPOLITANfamily • May 2015

YOUR COMMUNITY NEWS & EVENTS

Introducing Naples New Music School

Explore Sound In Sonic Sensation

xplore the science of sound and hearing at The Golisano Children’s Museum’s new traveling exhibition, Sonic Sensation. In a lively, engaging manner, Sonic Sensation presents a fun and informative opportunity to explore sound in our environment. Learn about the anatomy and physics of how we hear, find out about decibels, amplitude, frequency, pitch, sound waves, and what you can do to protect your hearing. The 1,500 square foot exhibition consists of fourteen fun, interactive exhibits. “Each exhibit is designed to spark conversation and encourage interaction among families, friends and other museum visitors,” said Beth Housewert, Director of Play and Learning. Other components invite you to measure the frequency of sounds, match mystery sounds, and try to find hidden “animals” in kitchen cupboards by listening (no peeking!). Young visitors will want try out Ear This!, a fun family photo op where they can see how they look with the ears of an elephant, rabbit, bat and more. The Sonic Sensation exhibit will be on display through September 11, 2015. The Golisano Children’s Museum is located at 15080 Livingston Rd, Naples, 34109. Call (239) 514-0084 or check www. cmon.org for additional information.

Girls Going Places Entrepreneurship Conference set for May 6

lliance Financial Group is pleased to announce the 16th annual Girls Going Places Entrepreneurship Conference. The day-long workshop will take place May 6 at Florida Gulf Coast University. The event joins approximately 140 teen women from Southwest Florida with about 40 women business owners, career executives, and entrepreneurs for activities and discussions that will introduce them to the areas of leadership, entrepreneurship and financial responsibility. Visit the website at girlsgoingplaces-afg.com, email michelle@ mlh-cc.com or call Lynne Tarman at 239-561-2900 for additional information.

Summer Camp Directory Correction

ang Xtreme was listed incorrectly in our April summer camp directory as Xtreme Hang. Check www.HangXtreme.com for additional information. NEAPOLITANfamily • May 2015

Summer Music Camp!

Call to schedule your first FREE Lesson We offer Private Lessons and Weekly Performance Classes 6200 Shirley St. #206 Naples FL 34109

(239) 596-9977 GROOVECULTUREMUSICSCHOOL.COM

Guitar • Bass • Drums • Keys • Voice • Strings Brass • Woodwinds • DJ/Software

Temple Shalom Preschool

Planting the Seeds in the Minds of our Future Exceptional Education for ages 2 - 5

i NOW REGISTERING i

for 2014-2015 school year

the

TSP

experience

TempleShalomPreschool.org

239-455-3227

4630 Pine Ridge Road

Naples, FL 34119

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Enroll your Star in our award-winning Child’s Path Preschool today and receive a special discount! E!!! F IRST WEEK hFisR$1E 70 value. M e n t i o n t h i s a d t o re c e i v e t Child’s Path Preschool provides a creative and healthy learning environment for children ages 2-5. Services include kindergarten readiness, VPK and age appropriate behavioral tools that cultivate academic, social and emotional development for your young star provided by our experienced and nurturing staff. Child’s Path’s educational philosophy is to give each child a positive experience where they can build a healthy self-esteem. Maybe that’s why our fun, hands-on approach to learning has been voted the Choice Star Award for “BEST PRESCHOOL” by the readers of Naples Daily News. Enroll your child today to receive this special discount and start them on their path to success!

The Path to Success Begins Here!

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

Too much stuff?

Not enough space or time?

WE CAN HELP! We offer: • Household Organization • Office Organization • Office Management, QuickBooks Data Entry Bookkeeping

SPECIAL 20% DISCOUNT Pay for 4 hours, you’ll get the 5th hour FREE!

239-404-2721 • www.straightenupinc.com

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

SUMMER CAMPS NOW AVAILABLE

5610 Yahl Street, #10 Naples

(239) 513-6999

NAPLESDANCEARTS.COM 20

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NEAPOLITANfamily • May 2015

YOUR COMMUNITY NEWS & EVENTS

Twinkle Outreach: Clothing and Gear Giveaway Plus Car Seat Check

winkle Outreach is holding a Kids Clothing and Gear Giveaway on May 9th from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at 1005 Shady Rest Lane, Naples, 34103. Any local family in need is welcome to come by and receive free children’s clothing or baby equipment. Families simply show up and apply for the items they may need, and will be able to select and receive things that day. Children’s clothing, baby gear and car seats are among some of the items available. Items are available first come, first served while supplies last. Twinkle Outreach is the philanthropic arm of Twinkle Twinkle Little Store. Any questions about the giveaway should be emailed to TwinkleTwinkleLittleStore@yahoo.com Twinkle Twinkle Little Store will also be offering a free car seat safety check to all those that are interested. Car seat checks are performed by one of the 6 Certified Child Passenger Safety Technicians that are available at Twinkle Twinkle Little Store. Car seat checks may also be performed on any other day or time with appointment. Please call (239) 262-5904 to schedule a car seat check appointment.

Summer Camp June 8-August 14 Mon/Wed/Fri 9-1 Tues/Thurs 1:30-5:30 For ages 2½ and up (Potty-trained only, please.)

My Gym Naples (239) 431-6499 mygym.com/naples

Camp Pricing $35 for Members $45 for Non-Members $10 Sibling discount

Purchase 10 Days for Only $300!

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

Florida Department Of Health Child Care Food Program Collier County Public Schools (CCPS) announces the sponsorship of the Afterschool Meals Program. This program is designed primarily to provide nutritious snacks and meals to children in afterschool programs. Snacks and meals are available at no separate charge to the children at Golden Gate Middle School (2701 48th Terrace S.W., Naples, FL 34116) and Manatee Middle School (1920 Manatee Road, Naples, FL 34114. Both programs begin in early May and run Monday through Thursday. For additional information call CCPS at 239-377-0180 or check www.collierschools.com. NEAPOLITANfamily • May 2015

$100 off

th’s Tuition First Mon 5 ires 5/31/1 Exp

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

239-631-2348 • www.WiseMindsLearning.com neafamily.com

YOUR COMMUNITY NEWS & EVENTS

Warehouse Sale in Naples

S All summer long!

Kids up to age 15 get 2 FREE games of Bowling EVERYDAY! No Strings Attached! Register online for your passes! www.kidsbowlfree.com/bowland

There’s a Bowland near you! Visit our website for locations!

www.BOWLANDCENTERS.com

Getting the

Perfect Prom Dress

Means Shopping Early

Don't Wait! You Could Miss Out on Your Dream Dress. Special Occasion Clothing ~Custom & Ready to Wear~ Bar/Bat Mitzvah • Sweet 16 • Prom • Graduation • Communion • Homecoming • Bridal Party • Night Out • Holiday Events PRIVATE APPOINTMENTS RECOMMENDED FOR CUSTOM CLOTHES

Girls | Boys | Teens | Adults

239.431.8440

WWW.STACYSGOLDENHANGER.COM

Shops at Vanderbilt

(between Toast & The Good Life)

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2355 Vanderbilt Beach Road, Suite 168 Naples FL 34108

tacy’s Golden Hanger is hosting a warehouse sale at their store every Saturday in May from 10:00 a.m. to 5 p.m. Shoppers will find a huge variety of clothing and accessories priced from $25 to $100. Stacy’s Golden Hanger is located at 2355 Vanderbilt Beach Road, Naples. Call 239-431-8440 or check www.StacysGoldenHanger.com for addiitonal information.

Upcoming Events At Rookery Bay

ookery Bay Environmental Learning Center has released their spring and summer schedule of events. The popular Kids Free Fridays returns as well as Lunch and Learn programs. Guided Kayak Tours of Rookery Bay and its surroundings provides a two-hour, up-close and personal experience. The cost is $55 ($45 for members) and includes kayak, all equipment, paddling instruction and admission to the Rookery Bay Environmental Learning Center on the day of the tour. Paddlers must be 12 years of age or older and weigh less than 250 pounds. Held on Tuesdays, May 5 – 26, 9:30 – 11:30 a.m. Lunch & Learn: Dive into Stories of Ocean Science with Ellen Prager as she shares her favorite ocean science stories. Cost is $10 (free for members), includes lunch. Event is May 5 from noon to 1 p.m. South Florida Birds and Gardens photography exhibit in the Rookery Bay Art Gallery boasts a selection of photographs by Kirsten Hines drawn from her two recent books. An opening reception is scheduled for May 27. Reception cost is $3 and includes refreshments. The exhibit is open May 25 through Sept. 23. Art for Mom & Me features local artist Marjorie Pesek leading this one-hour workshop for children and adults. She will share her unique art technique of Layered Imagery. Each parent and child will team up to create a masterpiece to take home. Registration fee is $25 and includes one adult, one child (age 5+) and all supplies. Participants enjoy complimentary admission to the Environmental Learning Center with registration. Art for Mom & Me will be held on Wednesdays, June 10 – Aug. 5, 10 – 11 a.m. Kids Free Fridays begins June 12 and runs through August 7 from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. This summer education program offers free admission for children ages 12 and younger who are accompanied by an adult (up to 5 children per adult). Adult tickets cost $5. Scheduled activities include story time, naturalist presentation, crafts, films and marine animal touch tank. Registration is not required. Call 239-530-5940 for additional information. Rookery Bay Environmental Learning Center is located at 300 Tower Road, Naples. Call 239-530-5940 for more information. NEAPOLITANfamily • May 2015

Your Kids Are First With Us

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

We offer: • Well Child Care • Immunizations • Alternative Immunization Schedule • Acute (Sick) Visit • Prenatal Consultations • ADHD Evaluation and Treatment • Allergy Testing and Treatment • Evaluation and Treatment of Environmental & Food Allergies

NEAPOLITANfamily • May 2015

We accept all major credit cards All commercial ins urance welcome

Mariliz Borbon Bumgarner, M.D . 5667 Naples Blvd ., Suite 7A, Naples

www.kids1stMd.co

239-431-6413

We speak Spanish!

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sunday

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NEAPOLITANfamily • May 2015

9:00 AM. Free Admission for Mother’s Day at Botanical Gardens. The first 100 mothers or grandmothers to check in receive a special gift! Located at 4820 Bayshore Drive, Naples. Call 239643-7275 or check www. naplesgarden.org for additional information.

9:00 AM. Dogs in the Garden. Take advantage of this beloved tradition at Naples Botanical Garden to spend some time with your dog exploring the gardens and the nature preserve. Garden members and member dogs free: $9.95 per dog and $14.95 per adult for nonmembers. 4820 Bayshore Drive, Naples. 239-6437275, www.naplesgarden.org.

monday

5:30 PM. Mommy and Me Tea at Naples Regional Library. Join us for a tea party. Play games, make a craft and drink tea. Open to grade K and older. Located at 650 Central Avenue, Naples. Call 239-2626853 or check http:// public.collier-lib.org for additional information.

May

11:30 AM. Science Sunday at C’MON. Come investigate your circulatory system and participate in a jaw dropping heart dissection. Located at 15080 Livingston Road, Naples. Call 239-514-0084 or check www.cmon.org for additional information.

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6:00 PM. Fun With Sidewalk Chalk at South County Regional Library. So many fun things to do with chalk. Draw, blend and shadow your way to a dynamite design. Fabulous street art creations will be shown to inspire you. Located at 21100 Three Oaks Pkwy, Estero. Call 239479-4636 for additional information.

3:30 PM. Cinco de Mayo at Golden Gate Branch Library. Come and learn about this special day in Mexican history with some music, crafts and food. Open to K-5th grades. Located at 2432 Lucerne Road, Naples. Call 239-2524542 or check http:// public.collier-lib.org for additional information.

tuesday

7:00 PM. To Kill a Mockingbird Discussion. Join us to discuss the classic novel in anticipation of the July release of Harper Lee’s Go Set a Watchman. Barnes & Noble is located at 5377 Tamiami Trail North, Naples. Call 239597-2040 for additional information.

2:00 PM. Make and Take Craft at ArtisNaples. Experience a new workshop on the first Wednesday of the month from 2 to 4pm. Located at 5833 Pelican Bay Boulevard, Naples. Call 239597-1111 for additional information.

wednesday

6:00 PM. Mercato Night Series: The Appleseed Collective. Free concert on the lawn across from Naples Flatbread. Located at 9128 Strada Place, Naples. Call 239-594-9400 or check www.mercatoshops.com for additional information.

thursday

7:00 PM. Smoke on the Water Barbecue and Music Festival. Southern Rock, Country, and Blues Music will keep crowds entertained. The stage will be located in front of the City Pier Building in the Fort Myers’ River District. Call 239333-1933 for additional information.

6:00 PM. 4th & 5th Grade Dance at Golden Gate Community Center. Located at the Golden Gate Community Center, 4th and 5th graders can join us for $10 a child. Pizza and a drink are included. Space is limited so get your tickets now. For more info call 239-252-4180 or visit our website at www. collierparks.com.

Collier Harvest “Stamp Out Hunger” Letter Carrier’s Food Drive. Place non-perishable food donations by your mail box anytime between May 1 and May 9th, to be picked up by their letter carriers. For info call 239-455-FOOD, or visit www.collierharvest.org. Runs through May 9.

friday

1:00 PM. Kids Critter Craft Day. $10 each child, reservations suggested. Held at Planet Tails Family Pet Center, 2355 Vanderbilt Beach Road, Suite 124, Naples. Call 239-293-3513 or check www.planettails.com for additional information. Also held May 21.

10:00 AM. Special Olympics Young Athletes Open House. Young Athletes is an early introduction to sports and to the world of Special Olympics. The children learn new things, play and have lots of fun! Located at 5450 YMCA Road , Naples. Call 239-5973148 for additional information.

10:00 PM. Collier County Honor Flight. Please show up at RSW to “welcome home” these 70 WWII Veterans who are seeing their memorial that was built almost 60 years after the war ended. The flight should arrive back to RSW around 10:30 pm. Visit www. CollierHonorFlight.org or follow us on Facebook: Collier County Honor Flight.

saturday

Best Bets

12:00 PM. Community Day at Artis-Naples. Come explore the entire Artis—Naples campus, with art and activities for all ages! Free activities include live music, an instrument petting zoo for kids, bilingual storytelling, and access to all museum exhibitions and galleries. 5833 Pelican Bay Boulevard, Naples. Call 239-597-1111.

NEAPOLITANfamily • May 2015

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5:00 PM. Sensory Nights. C’mon provides Sensory Nights for children on the autism spectrum or with other sensory disabilities who would be unable to visit the museum during regular hours. Located at 15080 Livingston Road, Naples. Call 239-5140084 or check www. cmon.org for additional information.

2:00 PM. Ready, Set, Learn Workshop at C’MON. Join us as we explore the art of France. We will try our hand at pointillism in the style of Georges Surat, create collages like Henri Matisse, and venture into the impressionist made famous by Claude Monet. 15080 Livingston Road, Naples. Call 239-514-0084 or check www.cmon.org.

8:15 PM. Movies on the Lawn: The Blind Side at Mercato. Free movie on the lawn across from Silverspot Cinema. Located at 9128 Strada Place, Naples. Call 239594-9400 or check www. mercatoshops.com for additional information.

6:00 PM. Free Admission to The Baker Museum. A local band offers musical entertainment and audiences of all ages are welcome to view the galleries and learn from our docents. Located at 5833 Pelican Bay Blvd, Naples. Call 239-597-1900 or check www.thephil.org for information.

9:00 AM. 4th Annual Watermelon Festival. Family fun celebrating the watermelon held at Fleamasters Fleamarket. Located on SR 82, 1 1/2 miles west of I-75. Check www.fleamall.com or call 239-334-7001 for additional information. Runs through May 31.

5:30 PM. Collier County Sheriff’s Office 5th Annual 5K Fun Run and Safety Fair. Hot dogs, lemonade, snow cones and popcorn. Visit with SWAT, Bomb Squad, K-9, Crime Prevention, Mounted Patrol, Aviation and climb the rock wall. Call 239-455-3121. Held at 3319 Tamiami Trail East, Naples.

11:00 AM. Magic Carpet—Percussion. Magic Carpet Concerts provide children ages 3-9 with the opportunity to hear small ensembles from the Naples Philharmonic. Located at 5833 Pelican Bay Blvd, Naples. Call 239-597-1900 or check www.thephil.org for additional information. Also held at 1 pm.

6:05 PM. Memorial Weekend Fireworks. Attend the Ft. Myers Miracle baseball game and be treated to an amazing fireworks display after the game. For ticket information call 239-768-4210 or check www.miraclebaseball.com.

YOUR COMMUNITY May EVENTS CALENDAR SUBMISSIONS: To submit your event for both our online and print calendars go to www. neafamily.com and follow the instructions for setting up a calendar account and inputting event information. The deadline for print calendar events is the 12th of the month preceding publication. You can submit events anytime for the online calendar.

1 FRIDAY All day. Collier Harvest “Stamp Out Hunger” Letter Carrier’s Food Drive. Collier Harvest, the non-profit agency that manages the “Stamp Out Hunger” event locally, asks residents of Naples and Marco Island to place their non-perishable food donations by their mail boxes anytime between May 1 and May 9th, to be picked up by their letter carriers. All residents, including seasonal residents returning home, may also drop off donations at the post office on North Goodlette-Frank Road or the Coco River post office on Immokalee Road. Collier Harvest welcomes volunteers, middle school age and older, on May 9th from 2-8pm, to help sort the food collected. Last year, over 250,000 lbs. of canned goods were collected. On a daily basis, 113 Collier Harvest volunteers deliver food to 40 agencies that support thousands of families in our community. For information or to volunteer, please call 239-455-FOOD, or visit www.collierharvest. org. Runs through May 9. Call for time. The Adventures of Tom Sawyer. The musical adaptation of the classic Mark Twain tale held at Broadway Palm Dinner Theatre. Located at 1380 Colonial Blvd., Ft. Myers. Call 239-278-4422 for ticket informa-

tion. Runs through May 22. 9:00 AM. Order/Disorder Exhibit and 44th Annual Jade Riedel Scholarship Competition Exhibition. The exhibit features 70 artworks by FGCU. Students of all levels were invited to participate. Scholarship and cash awards were presented to students at the opening reception. All media is represented in this annual exhibition: drawing, painting, mixed media, photography, ceramics, digital media, printmaking, sculpture. Held at von Liebig Art Center, 585 Park Street, Naples. Call 239-262-6517 or check http://naplesart. org for information. 10:00 AM. Baby-Parent Rhyme Time at South Country Regional Library. Registration required. Located at 21100 Three Oaks Pkwy, Estero. Call 239-479-4636 for information. Held weekly on Friday. 10:00 AM. Free Beachcombing and Shelling Talk. What do wrack lines, jellies, blue buttons, beachhoppers, ghosts, sea pork, and beans have in common? Come find out at this lecture on Beachcombing & Shelling. Held at Barefoot Beach Preserve, 505 Barefoot Beach Blvd., Bonita Springs. Call (239) 252-4000 or check www.friendsofbarefootbeach.org for additional information. Held weekly on Friday.

Treat Yourself for Mother’s Day!

NO MORE DIETING OR STARVING YOURSELF EVER AGAIN.

Forget the flowers, candy, and breakfast in bed. They’re thoughtful, but they’re shortlived. Tell your loved ones that you want a gift that will last a lifetime. It’s time to invest in your health and your happiness. Contact me to hold your spot in a 21 day easy to follow program with daily portion control tools and 30 minute workouts for all fitness levels. There will be no calorie counting, no guessing, no wondering.

The first 10 moms to contact me will receive a Mother’s Day bonus! It’s Mother’s Day. You’re worth it.

239-641-0201 JenniferKoz@comcast.net www.JenniferKozlowsky.com 26

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Let’s Talk. Let’s Meet. Let’s get to work together on reclaiming your body, your self esteem, your happiness. Jennifer Kozlowsky Your local Premiere Beachbody Coach Health and Wellness Coach, Fitness Instrucotr NEAPOLITANfamily • May 2015

YMCA CAMP WYHOWAY

CAMP STARTS JUNE 8th Register Today! DAILY ACTIVITIES

SPECIALTY SPORTS CAMPS

In addition to weekly themes, inspirational speakers and educational components campers will enjoy these fun activities:

Get your game on with the Y! Our comprehensive specialty sports camps focus on skill development and the excitement of participation through a combination of dynamic drills and games. A variety of sport-specific camps allows campers to concentrate on the sports they enjoy most.

• SWIMMING

• FIELD TRIPS

• SPORTS

• ARTS & CRAFTS

• TECH TIME

• GYM TIME

• BASKETBALL

• VOLLEYBALL

• CANOEING

• GUEST SPEAKERS

• SOCCER

• TENNIS

• SONGS & SKITS

• CAMP PARTIES

• SWIM TEAM

CALL YOUR Y for ALL summer locations.

NEAPOLITANfamily • May 2015

GREATER NAPLES YMCA 5450 YMCA ROAD 239.597.3148 GreaterNaplesYMCA.org

GREATER MARCO YMCA 101 SAND HILL STREET 239.394.9622 (YMCA) GreaterMarcoY.org

neafamily.com

10:30 AM. Southwest Florida Go Red for Women Luncheon. Themed around sisterhood and inspiration, the event is organized for and by Southwest Florida women to empower sisters, mothers, daughters and friends to take control of their heart health and support others living with heart disease. Held at Hyatt Regency Coconut Point Resort & Spa, 5001 Coconut Road, Estero. For more information check www.GoRedForWomen.org. 6:00 PM. Whole Foods Benefit for Collier County Honor Flight. Tasting and live music event at Whole foods. All proceeds will go to Collier County Honor Flight, a 100% Volunteer 501 c 3 non profit organization that takes WWII heroes to Washington DC to visit and reflect at their memorial that was built in their honor. Held at 9101 Strada Place, Naples. Call 239-552-5100 for additional information. 7:00 PM. Friday Night Concert Series. Highlighting the music of local bands at Miromar Outlets, 1801 Corkscrew Rd., Estero. Call 239-948-3766 or check www.miromaroutlets. com for additional information. Held weekly on Friday.

2 SATURDAY Call for appointment. KidzAct Auditions: Legally Blonde. Parts for children ages 14-18. Held at Sugden Community Theatre, 701 5th Ave S., Naples. Call 239-434-7340, ext 39 or

check www.naplesplayers.org for additional information. 7:30 AM. Third Street South Farmer’s Market. Fresh produce, flowers and food items in the parking lot behind Tommy Bahama’s on Third Street South in Naples. Call 239-4346533 for additional information. Held weekly on Saturday. 8:00 AM. Farmer’s Market at Collection at Vanderbilt. Fresh produce, flowers and food items at the corner of Vanderbilt and Airport Roads in Naples. Call 239-273-2350 for additional information. Held weekly on Saturday. 8:00 AM. IMCP Yard Sale. Garage sale bargains all in one spot. $10 for sellers. Held at Immokalee Community Park, 321 North 1st Street, Immokalee. Call (239) 657-4449 for additional information. 8:00 AM. Sixth Annual SUP LUAU Races. Held at the Bayfront Marina in Downtown Naples. It’s a fun day for every age, and all proceeds benefit the Special Olympics Florida - Collier County. Located at Goodlette-Frank Rd and 5th Ave South, Naples. Call 239-2721907 for additional information. 9:00 AM. Free Zoo Admission. Collier County residents receive free zoo admission all day long. Enter any time, all day long up until 4 p.m. with no coupon required - just proof of residency for all adults. Call (239) 262-5409 or check www.napleszoo.com for additional

information. 9:00 AM. Golden Gate Community Center Farmers Market. Fresh Fruits & vegetables, flowers, cookies and many other items. Spaces for rent. Located at 4701 Golden Gate Pkwy., Naples. Call 239-252-4180 or check http:// colliergov.net for additional information. Held weekly on Saturday. 10:00 AM. Warehouse Sale at Stacy’s Golden Hanger. Shoppers will find a huge selection of clothing and accessories at low prices. Located at 2355 Vanderbilt Beach Road, Naples. Call 239-431-8440 or check www.StacysGoldenHanger.com for additional information. Held every Saturday in May. 10:00 AM. Free Kids Fishing. Held at Bass Pro Shops, 10040 Gulf Center Drive, Ft. Myers. Call 239-461-7800 for additional information. 10:00 AM. International Migratory Bird Day at the Zoo. This annual celebration of the incredible journeys of migratory birds will be presented by three area National Wildlife Refuges. Learn more about the fascinating world of migratory birds as well as information on birding and great places to bird. Held at Naples Zoo, 1590 Goodlette-Frank Road, Naples. Check www.caribbeangardens.com or call 239-262-5409 for additional information. 10:00 AM. KIDding Around Bell Tower Shops. Join us for a variety of free activities and

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

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



Educated, compassionate, and skilled teachers



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



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



Separate outdoor play spaces for infants, toddlers, and preschool



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

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

G LIN OL R R E EN W UMM O N ! RS FO AMP C

Precious Cargo Academy, a Mission of Naples United Church of Christ WEBSITE: Preciouscargoacademy.org 28

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EMAIL: office@preciouscargoacademy.org NEAPOLITANfamily • May 2015

sponsors that change each month, including Bounce House fun. Held at Bell Tower Shops, Daniels Pkwy and US 41, Ft. Myers. Call 239-4891221 or check www.thebelltowershops.com for additional information. 10:00 AM. Make-A-Wish Frozen Event at Lollipops Kids Spa. Meet Princess Elsa and Olaf during this spa experience and fundraiser for Make-A-Wish Foundation. Reservations required. Located at Livingston Road, Unit 16, Naples. Call 239-287-4066 for additional information. 10:00 AM. Montessori Academy of Naples Open House. Check out the campus and get information on the programs available for your child. Openings for children ages 8 weeks to 15 years. Located at 2659 Professional Circle, Naples. Call 239-597-2255 or check www.naplesmontessori.org for additional information. 10:00 AM. Multicultural Fair. Multicultural food vendors, activities for children and adults, bounce house, health education, Collier County dignitaries, entertainment, music and dancing. Bike helmets will begin to needy families from the Collier County Sheriff’s Office. Free parking and entry. Held at Immokalee Community Park, 321 North 1st Street, Immokalee. Call 239-657-4449 for additional information. 10:00 AM. Storytime at Barnes & Noble. What Do You Do with an Idea? Children of all ages will find inspiration in this story that asks us to nurture an idea, no matter how silly it may seem. Activities will follow. Located at 5377 Tamiami Trail North, Naples. Call 239-597-2040 for additional information. Held weekly on Saturday. 12:00 PM. Kitten Shower at the Humane Society. There will be cupcakes, games, a special fostering kittens care class at 1pm and more! If you would like to donate supplies from our registry, please view our Wish List here: http://hsnaples.org/images/HSN_Wish_List_05-14.pdf. Located at 370 Airport Pulling Road N, Naples. Call 239-643-1555 for additional information. 2:00 PM. Baby Basics Tea. Wear your fancy hat and join us for tea and an assortment of delicious sandwiches and desserts. Held at the Ritz Carlton, 280 Vanderbilt Beach Rd., Naples. Check www.babybasicscollier.org for additional information. 5:00 PM. Derby Dash. Enjoy open bar of Mint Juleps, prosecco, wine and hors d’oeuvres. Enjoy live music, silent auction, racing games, viewing of the race live and of course Best Dressed and Best Hat Contests. Tickets available at http://bit.ly/DerbyDash15 All proceeds of this event benefit the Naples Junior Woman’s Club Scholarship Fund, which awards scholarships to high school students through the Community Foundation of Collier County. NJWC is a registered 501(c)(3) charitable non-profit organization, member GFWC. Located at 1300 3rd St S # 101, Naples. 10:00 PM. Collier County Honor Flight. This free, one day flight is for 70 of our local WWII heroes. Please show up at RSW to “welcome home” these 70 WWII Veterans who are seeing their memorial that was built almost 60 years after the war ended. Wear your red, white and blue and bring your family and friends to see and thank the greatest generation. The flight should arrive back to RSW around 10:30 pm. Visit www. CollierHonorFlight.org or follow us on Facebook: Collier County Honor Flight.

3 SUNDAY 9:00 AM. Dogs in the Garden. Take advantage of this beloved tradition at Naples Botanical Garden to spend some time with your furry friend exploring the beautiful cultivated gardens and the nature preserve. One dog per person. Dogs must be on leash, and no retractable leashes please. Dogs must be up-to-date on all vaccinations and registrations; one dog per adult. Admission: Garden members and member dogs free: $9.95 per dog and $14.95 per adult for non-members. Located at 4820 Bayshore Drive, Naples. Call 239-643-7275 or check www.naplesgarden.org for additional information. Held weekly on Sunday.

NEAPOLITANfamily • May 2015

MONTESSORI

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

ENROLL TODAY FOR SUMMER VPK! INFANT TODDLER CHILDREN’S HOUSE VPK ELEMENTARY ADOLESCENT

Programs for Ages 8-weeks to 15-years

Open House

Saturday, May 2, 2015 10:00A.M. to 12:00Noon

Call today or visit our website 239-597-2255 www.naplesmontessori.org

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

11:00 AM. 20th Annual Taste of the Beach. More than 20 restaurants will participate along with live on-stage concerts. Check www.visitfortmyersbeach.com for additional information. 11:00 AM. Car Cruise In. See all the favorite makes and models of classic, exotic and custom cars. Held at Miromar Outlets, 10801 Corkscrew Rd, Estero. Call 239-948-3766 or check www.miromaroutlets.com for additional information. 2:00 PM. Free Concerts at the Bandshell. Bring a blanket for the whole family and enjoy free jazz concerts in Cambier Park. Located at 755 8th Ave. S., Naples. Check www.naplesgov.com/index.aspx?NID=576 for additional information or call 239-213-3058. Held weekly on Sunday.

4 MONDAY 10:30 AM. Janet Ruth Science Sleuth at Headquarters Library. Local educator Janet Lawton will lead a series of programs to guide preschool children through some of the mysteries of science. Children will make crafts during each session. Open to a ages 4-5 years. Registration required. Located at 2385 Orange Blossom Drive, Naples. Call 239-593-0870 or check http://public.collier-lib.org for additional information.

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3:30 PM. Rubber Band Loom Club at South Regional Library. Bring your loom and rubber bands and learn to make easy rings, bracelets and charms. Located at 8065 Lely Cultural Parkway, Naples. Call 239-252-7542 or check http://public.collier-lib.org for additional information. 5:30 PM. Mommy and Me Tea at Naples Regional Library. Join us for a tea party. Play games, make a craft and drink tea. Open to grade K and older. Located at 650 Central Avenue, Naples. Call 239-262-6853 or check http://public.collier-lib.org for additional information. 5:30 PM. Princess Party at East Naples Library. Dress up and be a princess for a day. Get your face painted, make a tiara and a gift for mom. Tea party with juice and treats. Age 2 and up. Located at 8787 Tamiami Trail East, Naples. Call 239-775-5592 or check http://public.collier-lib.org for additional information. 7:00 PM. Films for Film Lovers Series. Join Us Monday nights to enjoy the best of Foreign and Independent films. Join our lively film discussion after each film, led by the Film Society Chairman and a Film Society Member. Wine, Beer and non-alcoholic beverage, snacks and popcorn are available. Held at Center for Performing Arts â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Hinman Auditorium, 10150 Bonita Beach Rd., Bonita Beach. Call 239-4958989 or check http://www.artcenterbonita.

org for additional information. Held weekly on Monday.

5 TUESDAY 7:00 AM. Dean Lind Memorial Golf-a-thon for St. Matthews House. Held at Imperial Golf Club in Naples. For more information on playing or sponsorships call Nanette at (239) 298-5026. Imperial Golf Course is located at 1808 Imperial Golf Course Blvd, Naples. 8:30 AM. A Canoe Trip Through the Estuary. Paddle through one of the most productive ecosystems on earth. $10 per person. Held at Barefoot Beach Preserve, 505Barefoot Beach Blvd., Bonita Springs. Call 239-252-4000 or check www.friendsofbarefootbeach.org for additional information. Held Tuesday, Thursday and Sundays through May 21. 9:00 AM. Dogs in the Garden. Take advantage of this beloved tradition at Naples Botanical Garden to spend some time with your furry friend exploring the beautiful cultivated gardens and the nature preserve. One dog per person. Dogs must be on leash, and no retractable leashes please. Dogs must be up-to-date on all vaccinations and registrations; one dog per adult. Admission: Garden members and member dogs free: $9.95 per dog and $14.95 per adult for non-members. Located at 4820 Bayshore Drive, Naples. Call 239-643-7275 or check www.naplesgarden.org for additional

NEAPOLITANfamily â&#x20AC;˘ May 2015

Many Collier County Library programs require preregistration, please call ahead for any program you are interested in attending to check requirements. information. Held weekly on Tuesday. 10:00 AM. Moms and Tots Storytime with Miss Jessica and Miss Felicia. A toddler favorite, the girls read, sing, dance and color, creating a fun atmosphere of learning and lots of laughter. Come and ask about the little green frog song. All ages are welcome. Held at Barnes & Noble, 5377 Tamiami Trail North, Naples. Call 239-597-2040 for additional information. Held weekly on Tuesday.

5:00 PM. Lighthouse of Collier 6th Birthday Celebration. Held at 2685 Horseshoe Drive South, Suite 211. Refreshments will be served. The mission of Lighthouse of Collier is to promote the development, implementation, and on-going evaluation of programs and services which foster independence and enhance the quality of life for the blind, visually impaired and their caregivers. www.LighthouseofCollier. org or call 239-430-EYE4 (3934).

12:00 PM. Lunch and Learn at Rookery Bay. Lunch & Learn: Dive into Stories of Ocean Science with Ellen Prager as she shares her favorite ocean science stories about living underwater, the Galapagos Islands and wacky sea creatures. Cost is $10 (free for members), includes lunch. Located at 300 Tower Road, Naples. Call 239-417-6310 or check www. rookerybay.org for additional information.

6 WEDNESDAY

3:30 PM. Cinco de Mayo at Golden Gate Branch Library. Come and learn about this special day in Mexican history with some music, crafts and food. Open to K-5th grades. Located at 2432 Lucerne Road, Naples. Call 239-252-4542 or check http://public.collierlib.org for additional information.

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

Call for time. KidzAct Auditions: Doo-Wop Wed Widing Hood and Alice in Wonderland. Parts available for children ages 9-14. Held at Sugden Community Theatre, 701 5th Ave S., Naples. Call 239-434-7340, ext 39 for additional information.

10:00 AM. Family Story Time at South Regional Library. This program is for the whole family and lasts about 30 minutes. Reg-

istration is required. Located at 21100 Three Oaks Pkwy, Estero. Call 239-479-4636 for additional information. Held weekly on Wednesday. 10:00 AM. Free Kids Crafts at Miromar Outlets. Kids from toddlers to twelve are invited to participate in free fun activities. Located at 10801 Corkscrew Rd, Estero. Call 239-948-3766 for additional information. Held weekly on Wednesday. 10:30 AM. Family Story Time at Bonita Springs Library. This program is for the whole family and lasts about 30 minutes. Located at 26876 Pine Avenue, Bonita Springs. Call 239-992-0101 for additional information. Held weekly on Wednesday. 2:00 PM. Make and Take Craft at ArtisNaples. Experience a new workshop on the first Wednesday of the month from 2 to 4pm. Located at 5833 Pelican Bay Boulevard, Naples. Call 239-597-1111 for additional information.

7 THURSDAY 3:00 PM. Dogs in the Garden. Take ad-

the place to be Seen in twenty-Fifteen

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

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Summer

2015

Specialty campS | aQUaticS | eVeNtS

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3/19/15 3:37 PM

vantage of this beloved tradition at Naples Botanical Garden to spend some time with your furry friend exploring the beautiful cultivated gardens and the nature preserve. One dog per person. Dogs must be on leash, and no retractable leashes please. Dogs must be up-to-date on all vaccinations and registrations; one dog per adult. Admission: Garden members and member dogs free: $9.95 per dog and $14.95 per adult for non-members. Located at 4820 Bayshore Drive, Naples. Call 239643-7275 or check www.naplesgarden.org for additional information. Held weekly on Thursday. 5:30 PM. Celebrate the Pineapple at Marco Island Library. Learn about the pineapple industry of Marco Island. Games, crafts and eat pineapple, too! Open to all ages. Located at 210 S. Heathwood Drive, Marco Island. Call 239-394-3272 or check http://public.collier-lib.org for additional information. 5:30 PM. Mother’s Day Crafts at Immokalee Library. Hear a story and make a craft. Open to Kindergarten through 5th graders. Located at 417 North First Street, Immokalee. Call 239-657-2882 or check http:// public.collier-lib.org for additional information. 6:00 PM. Mercato Night Series: The Appleseed Collective. Free concert on the lawn across from Naples Flatbread. Located at 9128 Strada Place, Naples. Call 239-594-9400 or check www.mercatoshops.com for additional information. 6:30 PM. CityFEST Evening on Fifth. Enjoy live Music, shopping, dining, dancing on fabulous 5th Avenue South. Evening on 5th will feature an array of live musical performances. Call 239-692-8436 or check www. fifthavenuesouth.com for additional information.

8 FRIDAY Call for time. Youth Players Performance. Travel back to ancient China with this action-packed stage adaptation of Disney’s animated film presented by CFABS Youth Players. Held at Center for Performing Arts – Hinman Auditorium, 10150 Bonita Beach Rd, Bonita Springs. Call 239-495-8989 or check www.artcenterbonita.org for additional information. Runs through May 10. 10:00 AM. Fresh Food Fridays. Come out to the new SW Florida Performing Arts Center at the corner of Bonita Beach Rd. and Imperial Blvd. every Friday for Fresh Food Fridays. Fresh hot and cold foods to go, as well as cooking demonstrations from local chefs. Located at 11515 11515 Bonita Springs. Call 239-389-6901 for additional information. Held weekly on Friday. 6:00 PM. 4th & 5th Grade Dance at Golden Gate Community Center. Dance the night away with current music and disco lighting. Located at the Golden Gate Community Center, 4th and 5th graders can join us for $10 a child. Pizza and a drink are included. Space is limited so get your tickets now. For more info call 239-252-4180 or visit our website at www.collierparks.com. 6:00 PM. GGCC 4th and 5th Grade Dance. Pizza and soda served. Tickets sold 2 weeks prior or at door. $10 per person. Located at 4701 Golden Gate Pkwy, Naples. Call 239-252-4180 or check http://colliergov.net for additional information. 7:00 PM. Friday Night Concert Series. Held at Miromar Outlets, 10801 Corkscrew Rd, Estero. Call 239-948-3766 or check www.miromaroutlets.com for additional information.

9 SATURDAY 8:00 AM. 10th Annual Turtle Trot at Lover’s Key. The Friends of Lovers Key, Inc. presents the 10th Annual Turtle Trot Race at Lovers Key State Park. This unique trail course takes runners through a shady

neafamily.com

NEAPOLITANfamily • May 2015

maritime hammock ecosystem on a hard-packed shell path. While no part of the course requires running through beach sand, you get to finish at the beach where refreshments will be served and awards will be presented. Get the details and register online here: http://ftmyerstrackclub.com/ Loverskey/15TURTLETROT.htm 9:00 AM. Fort Myers Miracle Special Needs Camp. Featuring one-on-one instruction from the Miracle players and coaching staff, the Special Needs Camp focuses on teaching children the basic skills of hitting, throwing, catching and fielding. Held at Hammond Stadium, 14400 Six Mile Cypress Parkway, Ft. Myers. Call 239-768-4210 for additional information. 10:00 AM. Celebrate Mom. Spend Mother’s Day at The Village on Venetian Bay as we take a Fashion Walk with Susan G. Komen of Southwest Florida. Enjoy refreshments and celebrate and remember survivors of Breast Cancer. Located at 4200 Gulf Shore Blvd North, Naples. Call 239-261-6100 or check www.venetianvillage.com for additional information. 10:00 AM. Natonal Public Gardens Day at the Zoo. From Friday, May 8 through Mother’s Day Sunday on May 10, kids can take mom to the nationally accredited zoo and historic garden with a mom’s free admission coupon and a paid child ticket. Located at 1590 GoodletteFrank Road, Naples. Call 239-262-5409 or check www.caribbeangardens. com for additional information. 10:00 AM. Special Olympics Young Athletes Open House. Young Athletes™ is a unique inclusive sport and play program for children with intellectual disabilities and their peers. The focus is on fun activities that are important to mental and physical growth. Children ages 2 to 7 enjoy games and activities that develop motor skills and hand-eye coordination. Young Athletes is an early introduction to sports and to the world of Special Olympics. The children learn new things, play and have lots of fun! Come join us for an Open House - free lunch for children at Wynn’s Healthy Oasis located inside the YMCA. Located at 5450 YMCA Road , Naples. Call 239-597-3148 for additional information.

Heather Bladich Hair by Heather

(239) 285-9505

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

THEATRE TH HEATTRE E EDUCATION PRO PROJECT

ST R

student theatre artists in residence

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

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

11:00 AM. 39th Annual Great Dock Canoe Race. The Theme for 2015 is “The Hunger Games” and the prize for the “Best Dressed Canoe” (best interpretation of the theme) is $1,000. Call 239-594-8875 or check www.greatdockcanoerace.com for additional information. 11:00 AM. Mother/Daughter/Granddaughter Look-alike Contest. How much do you look like your mom? Mothers, daughters and granddaughters compete together for prizes in this annual family event at Miromar Outlets. Located at 10801 Corkscrew Rd, Estero. Call 239948-3766 for additional information. 11:00 AM. Twinkle Outreach Giveaway and Car Seat Check. Twinkle Outreach is holding a Kids Clothing and Gear Giveaway on May 9th from 11am-2pm at 1005 Shady Rest Lane, Naples, FL 34103. Any local families in need are welcome to come by and receive free children’s clothing or baby equipment. Families simply show up and apply for the items they may need, and will be able to select and receive things that day based on their needs. Any questions about the giveaway may be emailed to TwinkleTwinkleLittleStore@yahoo.com. 2:00 PM. Young Adult Book Club at South Regional Branch Library. Skype with authors and participate in lively book and movie comparison discussions. Located at 8065 Lely Cultural Parkway, Naples. Call 239-252-7542 or check http://public.collier-lib.org for additional information. 2:30 PM. Snow White & The Seven Dwarfs. Children For The Arts’ Acteen Troupe will present their improvisational version of Snow White and The Seven Dwarfs at the Collier County Headquarters Library. Admission is free. Call 239-593-0870. Reservations are required. Located at 2385 Orange Blossom Drive, Naples. Call or check http://public. collier-lib.org 239-593-0870 for additional information.

NEAPOLITANfamily • May 2015

Ages 13-18

JUNE 9-20 • 2-5PM • $250

FOR MORE INFORMATION,

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

TO REGISTER, CALL THE NORRIS CENTER AT 239.213.3049

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

• Top Rated VPK • Preschool Classes • Summer Camp www.LittlePeoplesSchool.info neafamily.com

10 SUNDAY

May Picks

9:00 AM. Free Admission for Mother’s Day at Botanical Gardens. Treat Mom or Grandma to a stroll through the tropical landscapes of the Garden this Mother’s Day. The first 100 mothers or grandmothers to check in receive a special gift! Located at 4820 Bayshore Drive, Naples. Call 239-643-7275 or check www.naplesgarden.org for additional information.

in Lee County

2:00 PM. Rockin’ the Blues Music Series at Mercato. Free concerts on the lawn presented by The Bayshore Cultural and Performing Arts Center. Located at 9128 Strada Place, Naples. Call 239-594-9400 or check www.mercatoshops.com for additional information.

12 TUESDAY 9:00 AM. Author Talk with Sue Monk Kidd. Friends of the Library of Collier County hosts Sue Monk Kidd, author of “Secret Life of Bees” and “The Invention of Wings.” $100 per person. Held at Port Royal Club, 2900 Gordon Drive, Naples. Call 239-262-8135 for additional information. 6:00 PM. Fun With Sidewalk Chalk at South County Regional Library. So many fun things to do with chalk. Draw, blend and shadow your way to a dynamite design. Fabulous street art creations will be shown to inspire you. Located at 21100 Three Oaks Pkwy, Estero. Call 239-479-4636 for additional information.

The Adventures of Tom Sawyer

Broadway Palm Dinner Theatre, 1380 Colonial Blvd., Fort Myers May 1 - 22 The musical adaptation of the classic Mark Twain tale. Broadway Palm Children’s Theatre is fun for everybody! 239-278-4422

20th Annual Taste of the Beach Old San Carlos Boulevard, Fort Myers Beach Sunday, May 3 • 11 a.m. - 6 p.m.

More than 20 restaurants will participate along with live on-stage concerts. 239-454-7500

Disney’s Mulan, Jr

Center for Performing Arts - Hinman Auditorium 10150 Bonita Beach Road SE, Bonita Springs May 8 at 7 p.m. & May 9 at 2 & 7 p.m. & May 10 at 2 p.m.

Travel back to ancient China with this action-packed stage adaptation of Disney’s animated film presented by CFABS Youth Players. www.artcenterbonita.org 239-495-8989

Mother/Daughter/Granddaughter Look-alike Contest Miromar Outlets, Estero Saturday, May 9•11 a.m.

How much do you look like your mom? Mothers, daughters and granddaughters compete together for prizes in this annual family event 239-948-3766

4th Annual Watermelon Festival

Fleamasters Fleamarket S.R. 82, 1¼ miles west of I-75 (exit 138), Fort Myers May 29, 30 and 31, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. www.fleamall.com 239-334-7001

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6:30 PM. Evening Program at the Conservancy. Presentations are held in Eaton Conservation Hall. Seating is space-available. To make a reservation, please contact Kelsey Hudson at 239.403.4228 or email her at kelseyh@conservancy.org. For a list of speakers go to www.conservancy. org/evenings. Admission: Members: Free; Others: $10.00

13 WEDNESDAY 10:00 AM. Spring Craft at Bonita Springs Library. Pop in and make a cheerful springtime craft! For kids of all ages. Located at 25876 Pine Avenue, Bonita Springs. Call 239-992-0101 for additional information. 4:00 PM. Lego Club at Estates Branch Library. Held on the second Wednesday of every month. Open to age 5-11. Registration not required. Located at 1266 Golden Gate Blvd. W., Naples. Call 239-455-8088 or check http://public.collier-lib.org for additional information.

14 THURSDAY 5:00 PM. Paint Stamping and Sharpie Embellished Dishes at Vanderbilt Library. Use a pencil eraser and fabric paint to make an oven safe dish. Open to ages 11-17. Located at 788 Vanderbilt Beach Road, Naples. Call 239-597-8444 or check http://public.collier-lib.org for additional information. 7:00 PM. Pitches Night Out. Opening night of “Pitch Perfect 2” with specialty drinks and prizes available. Held at Paragon Pavilion Theaters, 833 Vanderbilt Beach Rd, Naples. Call 239-596-0008 or check www. paragontheaters.com for additional information. 7:00 PM. To Kill a Mockingbird Discussion. Join us to discuss the classic novel in anticipation of the July release of Harper Lee’s Go Set a Watchman. Barnes & Noble is located at 5377 Tamiami Trail North, Naples. Call 239-597-2040 for additional information.

15 FRIDAY 10:00 AM. Celebrating Armed Forces Day at the Zoo. Naples Zoo

NEAPOLITANfamily • May 2015

is offering free admission to all active and prior service military personnel. Military service members receive free admission at the Zoo’s ticket box by presenting military identification or a veteran’s organization member card and matching name photo ID. Call 239-262-5409 for information. 6:00 PM. ENCP 5th Grade End of School Dance. Pizza and soda served. Tickets will be sold 2 weeks prior to dance or at the door. Located at 3500 Thomasson Drive, Naples. Call 239-252-4414 or check http:// colliergov.net for additional information. 6:00 PM. IMCP Movie Night. Family movie with popcorn and drink. $5 admission. Located at 321 North 1st Street, Immokalee. Call 239657-4449 for additional information. 6:00 PM. MHCP 5th Grade Dance. Dance the night away at the school dance. Tickets go on sale 2 weeks in advance. Max Hasse Community Park is located at 3390 Golden Gate Pkwy, Naples. Call 239-348-7500 for additional information. 7:00 PM. Smoke on the Water Barbecue and Music Festival. Southern Rock, Country, and Blues Music will keep crowds entertained. The stage will be located in front of the City Pier Building in the Fort Myers’ River District. Call 239-333-1933 for additional information.

16 SATURDAY 7:30 AM. MCA Forefathers5k/1mile. Awards, food, music, prizes, Tshirt and medals. 100% of Proceeds will benefit Mason Classical Academy students. Located at Mason Classical Academy, 3073 S. Horseshoe Drive, Naples. Call 239-227-2838 for additional information. 8:00 AM. IMSP Community Yard Sale. Yard sale bargains in one convenient sot. If you’d like to reserve a space, call the park for reservations. $10 to sell. Immokalee Sports Complex is located at 505 Escambia Street, Immokalee. Call 239-657-1951 for additional information. 12:00 PM. Spring Art for Teens at Bonita Springs Library. Create a stunning, spring-themed work of art! All supplies provided. Located at 26876 Pine Avenue, Bonita Springs. Call 239-992-0101 for information. 1:00 PM. Kids Critter Craft Day. $10 each child, reservations suggested. Held at Planet Tails Family Pet Center, 2355 Vanderbilt Beach Road, Suite 124, Naples. Call 239-293-3513 or check www.planettails.com for additional information. Also held May 21. 4:00 PM. Muscle Car Show. Enjoy a free muscle car show featuring American classics from 4 to 7 p.m. Held at Seminole Casino, 506 South 1st Street, Immokalee. Call 239-658-1313 or check www.seminolecasinoevents.com for additional information.

Naples Preschool Academy Top Early Learning Center

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

(conveniently located near Collier County Courthouse)

(239) 403-7977

www.NaplesPreschoolAcademy.com

17 SUNDAY 11:30 AM. Science Sunday at C’MON. All living things are made of cells. You’ve probably heard that before, but have you actually seen a living cell up close and in person? Join us as we delve into the mysterious world of cells. We will take an up-close look at some tiny objects and some living cells. Located at Golisano Children’s Museum of Naples, 15080 Livingston Road, Naples. Call 239-514-0084 for additional information. 12:00 PM. Community Day at Artis-Naples. A popular family event, Community Day is the bi-annual celebration of everything the arts has to offer. Come explore the entire Artis—Naples campus, with art and activities for all ages! Free activities include live music, an instrument petting zoo for kids, bilingual storytelling, and access to all museum exhibitions and galleries. Located at 5833 Pelican Bay Boulevard, Naples. Call 239597-1111 or check http://artisnaples.org for additional information. 4:00 PM. Naples Philharmonic Youth Chorus Concert. The 100-voice Naples Philharmonic Youth Chorus performs their own spring concert.

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This annual and festive event is suitable for the whole family. Located at 5833 Pelican Bay Boulevard, Naples. Call 239-597-1111 or check http://artisnaples.org for additional information.

18 MONDAY

6:00 PM. IMCP Parents Night Out. Yard sale bargains in one convenient spot. If you’d like to reserve a space, call the park for reservations. $10 to sell. Located at Immokalee Community Park, 321 North 1st Street, Immokalee. Call 239-657-4449 for additional information.

8:15 PM. Movies on the Lawn: The Blind Side at Mercato. Free movie on the lawn across from Silverspot Cinema. Located at 9128 Strada Place, Naples. Call 239-594-9400 or check www.mercatoshops.com for additional information.

6:30 PM. The Hollywood Kids! A family production you won’t want to miss! $7.50 Adults & $5.00 Children ages 3-17. General Admission at the door. Tickets are not sold in advance. Call 239-571-3305 for additional information. Held at Pine Ridge Middle School, 1515 Pine Ridge Road, Naples. Also held Saturday, May 23.

22 THURSDAY

23 SATURDAY

Call for time. Disney’s High School Musical, Jr. Presented by KidzAct. Held at Sugden Community Theatre, 701 5th Ave S, Naples. Call 239-434-7340, ext 39 for additional information. Shows through May 24.

8:00 AM. GGCC Community Yard Sale. Yard sale bargains in one convenient sot. If you’d like to reserve a space, call the park for reservations. $10 to sell. Golden Gate Community Center is located at 4701 Golden Gate Pkwy., Naples. Call 239-252-4180 or check http://colliergov.net for additional information.

5:30 PM. Collier County Sheriff’s Office 5th Annual 5K Fun Run and Safety Fair. Hot dogs, lemonade, snow cones and popcorn. Visit with SWAT, Bomb Squad, K-9, Crime Prevention, Mounted Patrol, Aviation and climb the rock wall. 5K Fun Run registration online or on the day of the event. Call the CCSO substation at 239-455-3121 if you have questions. Held at 3319 Tamiami Trail East, Naples.

9:00 AM. Military Appreciation Weekend at Botanical Gardens. Saturday, May 23 to Monday, May 25, we celebrate our Active and Retired Military Personnel! Bring your ID for FREE admission to the Garden! Regular admission for guests. Located at 4820 Bayshore Drive, Naples. Call 239-643-7275 for

additional information. 3:00 PM. Summer Spectacular Concert. The Naples Philharmonic and the Youth Orchestra perform side-by-side on Hayes Hall stage. $15. Located at 5833 Pelican Bay Boulevard, Naples. Call 239-597-1111 for additional information. 6:05 PM. Memorial Weekend Fireworks. Attend the Ft. Myers Miracle baseball game and be treated to an amazing fireworks display after the game. For ticket information call 239768-4210 or check www.miraclebaseball.com.

25 MONDAY 2:00 PM. Ready, Set, Learn Workshop at C’MON. Join us as we explore the art of France. We will try our hand at pointillism in the style of Georges Surat, create collages like Henri Matisse, and venture into the impressionist made famous by Claude Monet. Located at 15080 Livingston Road, Naples. Call 239-514-0084 or check www.cmon.org for additional information.

26 TUESDAY 5:00 PM. Sensory Nights. C’mon provides Sensory Nights for children on the autism spectrum or with other sensory disabilities who would be unable to visit the museum during regular hours. Lighting and sound are muted

2014 2015 Summer Camps Summer Camps Come aboard, discover science, take a journey, uncover treasures, or become an inventor! Kinder Camp KinderCamp9am-1pm 9am-1pm June 15-19 Camping C’mon June 23-27 Packwith Your Passport June 22-26 TheHappy Cat in the Hat C’mon Adventure July 7-11 Camper June 29-July 3 Under the SeaThat July 21-25 Imagine July 6-10 Kamp Kinderland Grades Grades 1 & 2 1 & 29am-5pm 9am-5pm June 15-19 Spaced Out Hidden Treasures July 14-18 Earth’s June 29-July 3 TheBest Greatest Show on Earth July 28-Aug.1 of C’mon July 13-17 Spy Camp July 20-24 Best of C’mon Grades 2 & 3 The 9am-5pm

Cool Chemistry GradesJuly 3 & 4 7-11 9am-5pm July 21-25 June 22-26 TheMovie ScienceMasters of Illusion July 6-10 Brilliant Builders July 27-31 C’mon Cool Crafts Grades 3 & 4 9am-5pm

The Final Frontier GradesJune 5 & 6 23-27 9am-5pm July 14-18 Maker Lab July 13-17 Crime Scene Investigations July 28-Aug.1 TheBest of C’mon C’mon July 20-24 Best of

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

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

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JUNIOR GOLF CAMP AT VASARI COUNTRY CLUB

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

Games and skills challenges will help kids have fun while learning to play golf! Topics include: Chipping, pitching, putting, full swing, bunkers and group games Schedule: 9:00 AM--Noon Instruction, Group Games, Rules Seminar and Lunch

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

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

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

NEAPOLITANfamily • May 2015

SUMMER AT THE CENTER! ACT C R E AT E P L AY LEARN

VOTED “BEST SUMMER CAMPS” - NEWS PRESS AGES 4-18 • June 8 - August 14 Over 120 Camp Classes in Art, Theater, Dance and Music Great scholarships and discounts make summer fun and learning affordable! CENTER FOR PERFORMING ARTS, 10150 BONITA BEACH RD, BONITA SPRINGS, FL

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and additional sensory activities and cool down spaces are provided. Sensory Night programs require advance registration using the links below. The cost to attend either program is $5 per person and free for members. Located at 15080 Livingston Road, Naples. Call 239-514-0084 or check www.cmon.org for additional information.

27 WEDNESDAY 5:30 PM. Opening Reception for South Florida Birds and Gardens Exhibit at Rookery Bay. South Florida Birds and Gardens is a selection of photographs by Kirsten Hines drawn from her two recent books. Located at 300 Tower Road, Naples. Call 239-417-6310 or check www. rookerybay.org for additional information. 6:00 PM. Free Admission to The Baker Museum. A local band offers musical entertainment and audiences of all ages are welcome to view the galleries and learn from our docents. Located at 5833 Pelican Bay Blvd, Naples. Call 239-597-1900 or check www.thephil.org for information.

29 FRIDAY 9:00 AM. 4th Annual Watermelon Festival. Family fun celebrating the watermelon held at Fleamasters Fleamarket. Located on SR 82, 1 1/2 miles west of I-75. Check www.fleamall.com or call 239-334-7001 for additional information. Runs through May 31.

30 SATURDAY MA47189 MM23779

(239) 595-4073

10:00 AM. Peter Sargent Visiting Artist at C’MON. Come join visiting artist Peter Sargent as he takes us on a journey of optical illusions and three-dimensions in his brilliant ink and colored pencil drawings. Located at 15080 Livingston Road, Naples. Call 239-514-0084 or check www.cmon.org for additional information.

17TH ANNUAL

SUMMER ART PROGRAM FOR KIDS & TEENS

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

Financial Aid Available

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8:00 AM. MHCP Community Yard Sale. Yard sale bargains in one convenient sot. If you’d like to reserve a space, call the park for reservations. $10 to sell. Max A. Hasse Jr. Community Park is located at 3390 Golden Gate Pkwy, Naples. Call 239-348-7500 for additional information.

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

10:00 AM. Youth Football Skills Camp. This is a skills only camp so no pads needed. Participants should bring cleats, swimsuit, towel and sunblock. Lunch and water/Gatorade will be provided. Open to children ages 8-17, $25 per participant. Held at Bay Oaks Recreation Center, Fort. Myers. Call (239) 765-4222 for additional information. 11:00 AM. Magic Carpet—Percussion. Magic Carpet Concerts provide children ages 3-9 with the opportunity to hear small ensembles from the Naples Philharmonic demonstrate their instruments in a fun and informative 45-minute program. Located at 5833 Pelican Bay Blvd, Naples. Call 239-597-1900 or check www.thephil.org for additional information. Also held at 1 pm.

31 SUNDAY 11:30 AM. Science Sunday at C’MON. Get ready for a 60,000 mile journey without ever leaving C’mon. We are taking a trip through your blood vessels to learn about how your heart works. Come investigate your circulatory system and participate in a jaw dropping heart dissection. Located at 15080 Livingston Road, Naples. Call 239-514-0084 or check www.cmon.org for additional information.

NEAPOLITANfamily • May 2015

Our Educated and Dedicated Staff Encourages Creative, Expressive, Hands on Learning

Offer o s l A

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Your child will receive quality interaction with our low student-teacher ratios and will enjoy our spacious, shaded, fun-filled play area.

Education Art Robotics Computer Design

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per week for full 9 weeks of Summer fun at Camp Collier! Public Services Division Parks & Recreation

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Where your child’s needs are our only priority.

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

Collier County Parks and Recreation • Winter/Spring 2011

SUMMERDANCE 2015 Sibling

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

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

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

5400 Jaeger Rd Naples, FL 34109

239.566.3535 neafamily.com

MOTHER’S DAY

DINING OUT

Mother’s Day Brunch

Give Mom the day off on Mother’s Day by treating her to a special day out. The following restaurants are open early for brunch and dining and few are even offering a special treat for Mom. Alexander’s 4077 Tamiami Trail North, Naples 239-262-4999 Moms get a complimentary glass of champagne and a rose. Café Alfredo 2359 Vanderbilt Beach Rd. Suite 416, Naples 239- 431-8605 Moms eat free (with reservation only) on Mother’s Day. The Chapel Grill 811 7th Avenue South, Naples 239-206-4310 Enjoy a brunch buffet for $29.95 (kids are half price)

Ciao Ristorante 835 4th Street South, Naples 239-263-3889 Everyone over age 21 receives a free glass of Prosecco to toast Mom on her special day while dining between 4:30 pm to 9:30 pm. Fleming’s Steakhouse 8985 Tamiami Trail North, Naples 239-598-2424 Fleming’s will open early for a special three-course brunch for $39.95 ($18.95 for children). First Watch 225 Banyan Blvd, Suite 100, Naples 239-434-0005 1000 Immokalee Road, Naples

239-566-7395 13030 Livingston Road, Naples 239213-1709 First Watch will be giving all moms a complimentary box of chocolates while they enjoy breakfast, brunch or lunch on Mother’s Day. Jack’s Restaurant 275 Estero Blvd, Fort Myers Beach 239-463-8615 Enjoy the waterfront view at the Pink Shell Resort while dining on the special buffet from 12:30 pm -9:00 pm. Jane’s Garden Café 1209 3rd Street South, Naples 239-261-2253

Moms receive a $10 gift card to use on a return visit. The Naples Beach Hotel & Golf Club 851 Gulfshore Blvd North, Naples 239-261-2222 Hotel guests taking advantage of the third night free Mother’s Day Weekend Special will enjoy a 20% discount on the traditional Mother’s Day Buffet. Naples Flatbread & Wine Bar- Mercato 9118 Strada Place, 8170, Naples 239-431-8259 Enjoy two entrees, salads and a bottle of wine for #39.99 all day on Mother’s Day.

CELEBRATE

Mom!

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NEAPOLITANfamily • May 2015

Noodle’s Italian Café & Sushi Bar 1585 Pine Ridge Road, Naples 239-592-0050 Noodles is offering a two-course Sunday brunch for $23.95. Roy’s Bonita Springs 2631 South Bay Drive Suite 100 Bonita Springs 239- 498-7697 Roy’s Naples 475 Bayfront Place, Naples 239-261-1416 Roy’s will be open early with a special two-course Mother’s Day brunch for $35.95 as well as a children’s menu. Stage 62 Delicatessen 9105 Strada Place, Naples 239-597-2800 Mom will have her choice of a free bellini or mimosa while dining on Mother’s Day. The Wharf Tavern 909 10th Street South Naples 239-331-4053 Opening at noon with their regular menu and a free glass of champagne for Mom on Mother’s Day.

NEAPOLITANfamily • May 2015

Grove on the Caloosahatchee along with morning and afternoon mimosas.

After brunch, enjoy these special admission treats with mom: Naples Botanical Garden 4820 Bayshore Drive, Naples 239-643-7275 Treat Mom or Grandma to a stroll through the tropical landscapes of the Garden on Mother’s Day. Free admission for mothers and grandmothers, regular admission for guests. The first 100 mothers or grandmothers to check in receive a special gift!

Mother’s Day at Edison and Ford Winter Estates 2350 McGregor Blvd, Fort Myers 239-334-7419 Consider dining at one of the restaurants at the Marina at Edison Ford and then Moms can enjoy free admission on Mother’s day and discounts in the museums stores. Free lemonade will be offered in the Edison Coconut

The Naples Beach Hotel Mother’s Day Spa Special 851 Gulfshore Blvd North, Naples 239-261-2222 Surprise Mom with a 50 minute relaxation massage, a 50 minute classic European facial and a 25 minute tropical salt scrub; also champagne, chocolate-covered strawberries and a special gift for $189 ($397 value). The hotel is also offering a third night’s stay for free with purchase of two nights Mother’s Day weekend. Naples Zoo at Caribbean Gardens 1590 Goodlette-Frank Road, Naples 239-262-5409 From Friday, May 8 through Mother’s Day on Sunday, May 10, kids can take mom to the zoo with a mom’s online free admission coupon and a paid child ticket.

neafamily.com

Taking Water Safety Seriously S

wimming is a year-round activity here in Southwest Florida, but just like up north, there is a seasonal spike in our enjoyment of the water during the summer. So it’s an appropriate time to think about the less-fun side of water: safety. The statistics are startling, especially when it comes to small children. According to the Florida Department of Health’s website, “Florida loses more children under age five to drowning than any other state. Annually in Florida, enough children to fill three to four preschool classrooms drown and do not live to see their fifth birthday.” But it gets worse. Nationwide, “for every child who dies from drowning, another five receive emergency department care for nonfatal submersion injuries,” says the U.S. Center for Disease Control’s website. “These nonfatal drowning injuries can cause severe brain damage that may result in long-term disabilities such as memory problems, learning disabilities, and permanent loss of basic functioning (e.g., permanent vegetative state).” 42

neafamily.com

By Leigh Ann Newman

Multi-layered prevention The good news is that drownings and near-drownings are preventable. Drowning prevention is a multi-layered process. Any level of protection can fail, so you must have other layers in place to protect your children. There is no such thing as “drown proofing”. Michael Phelps can drown, a dolphin can drown, a sea turtle can drown. But by implementing the layers listed below, you can keep your child, and other children, safe.

siblings or pool service companies leaving gates open.

Layer 1) Swimming lessons. Children can learn to swim and float from as young as six months old. I teach survival swimming skills to babies and toddlers and I’m still amazed by what small children are able to achieve in the water.

Layer 5) Avoid water wings and limit flotation devices. These give children a false sense of security. After wearing a flotation device in the water, children think they can stay up in the water even without the device. Children need to learn that they have limitations in the water. Sometimes, however, you may need a flotation device if you have multiple children or are in a situation where you could be distracted. The best choices are either puddle jumpers or life jackets, never water wings. But don’t forget that children can remove these on their own, and are no replacement for close supervision.

Layer 2) Pool fence. If you have a backyard pool and children, a pool fence (at least four feet high) is a necessity. I’ve heard parents say they don’t like the look of a fence, but the bottom line is that pool fences save lives. It’s the most effect physical protection you can buy. But fences are only effective if they are properly secured when you are not in the pool. I’ve heard stories of older

Layer 3) Locked doors. Keep the doors to your lanai locked, and check that the locks are working. Layer 4) Alarmed doors. This doesn’t have to be a loud, wailing alarm. Even just a “ping” when your door is opened is enough to alert you that your child has gone outside.

NEAPOLITANfamily • May 2015

Layer 6) Close supervision. I know. You want to read a magazine and sip a drink while the kids are in the pool or at the beach. The problem is, you can’t. Kids need to be closely supervised around water. Once they are strong swimmers (without ANY flotation device) you can start to loosen that supervision a bit, but even strong swimmers need to have someone watching. Take turns with a friend or your spouse watching the kids, while the other relaxes. Layer 7) Educate your child. Talk to your child (age appropriate) about being safe in the water. It is especially important to discuss what to do if they see another child or baby fall into water. Most kids want to be the hero and jump in the water, intending to save that child, which can result in a double drowning. Tell your child instead to scream and yell and find an adult immediately. Make sure your older children are aware Our of theE-Magazine consequences of leaving a Browse door pool fence open. AndFamdon’t Read or complete issuesgate of Neapolitan give siblings computer the responsibility ily onolder your desktop or mobile of watching in a pool. device. Tosmall access:children Neafamily.com → Digital → Click on issue you’d like to read.

Layer 8) Learn CPR. If the unthinkable happens, CPRYou can Go give your child Take Usknowing Wherever valuable time beforefeatures help arrives. Neapolitan Family responsive web design, so our web pages adjust to

whatever portable Access Layer 9) Get in thedevice water.you Playuse. in the water our resources, directories, publications, with your children. It’s relaxing, fun, and calendar and news updates 24/7. safe!

E-Newsletter LEIGH ANN NEWMAN is the owner of Neapolitan Familyinsends out and an e-is certified ABC Swim School Naples, newsletter every Thursday filled fun by PediaSwim to teach survival with swimming events for the upcoming week. To sign up: skills to children ages 6 months to 6 years. Neafamily.com → click on the newsletter She can be reached at 239-272-0529 or graphic box at the top of eachorpage. abcswimschool@gmail.com, through www. abcswimschool.com.

Guarding Your Guests

The Music Studio of Naples • Your resource for private music instruction–all instruments and styles. • Specializing in voice and piano. • Mommy & Me early music instruction (ages 4 and up)

(239) 537-6209

musicstudionaples.com 255 Airport Road South, Naples 34014 NEAPOLITANfamily 6 neafamily.com • May 2015

online

Many of us are planning pool and beachAUGUST parties this time of year, celebrating birthdays, graduations, or the end of the school year. We’ve taken care of invitations, the cake, food, drinks—we’ve thought of everything, right? Wrong. We forgot the lifeguard. Lifeguard? Really? For a small backyard pool with several adults in attendance? at Yes, really. You’re inside, refilling drinks, grabbing sunscreen, while your spouse runs to the front of the house to help organize parking. A couple of the dads are sitting by the pool, but they are enjoying a beer and are deep in conversation. Ten children are in and out of the pool, but no one is really keeping track of them all. It’s the perfect setting for a tragedy. “Hiring a lifeguard takes so much stress off of the hosts of the party because the hosts are responsible for all attending members, adults and children,” says Jason Baumgardner, owner of Coach B’s Aquatics. Coach B’s provides certified lifeguards for various functions around Southwest Florida. Nearly 90% of drownings occur when children are being supervised, according to a 2004 study by Safe Kids Worldwide. That supervision, unfortunately, was distracted, by a book, a phone, another person. Our attention can be diverted easily, and drownings typically are silent and unnoticed until it’s too late. Providing a lifeguard for your party guests is the easy solution. And if you’re having a party at your community pool, yourThis home owners’web-only associationsarticles: (HOA) may Web Only Contests month’s require you to have at least one certified lifeguard. We offer great contests for our web readers. your HOA. To find out about our current contest: Check with • First Day of School Neafamily.com → Contests. Cute photo ideas, to mark the Keep themcelebrations busy and safe new school and Rates for lifeguards vary,year based on the ages and Web Only Content guests and location. One lifeguard at We update our web site daily with new number of afterschool activities. articles, news and local information. You’ll a pool (no activities) is $30 an hour. Coach B’s offers a • Cover Kids Contest also find an archive of print articles as well basic pool party package of two lifeguards (one to guard Find the rules for our cover kids as web-only articles with everything thefrom water and one to lead activities) for $75 an hour, contest plus enter your child! travel information to crafts projects. which includes all equipment for games for up to 20 children. Beach tend to have more equipment, • parties August Fun Updated Calendar such as paddleboards and surfboards, and are more chalOne tank trips, fun fall We update the calendar frequentlylenging adding to guard, sodestinations and fall rates are higher. For 10-12 kids, two new events that come in after the print lifeguards at the beach cost $100 an hour and the rate vacation planning. publication deadlines. Check often to see would go up from there, depending on activities and • children. Educational Resources what is going on in Naples and surrounding ages of the Book suggestions, craft ideas areas. There is NOT a better calendar of For more information, visit www.coachevents available locally. and more. baquatics.com or call 239.822.3225.

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Visiting the City by the Bay

San Francisco! S

an Francisco is arguably the most beautiful city in the United States and offers everything your family could want for summer vacation. Moderate temperatures, excellent public transportation, delicious food and a plethora of fun activities for adult and child alike–what’s not to love? Like millions before you, you’re guaranteed to leave your heart in San Francisco after your family vacation! There are no direct flights to San Francisco International from Ft. Myers. You’ll either have to connect along the way or fly out of Miami or Ft. Lauderdale. Once you arrive, the city is a short Uber or cab ride from the airport. Don’t bother with a car rental–parking in San Francisco is expensive and difficult and you are much better served by public transportation or walking. You can always rent a car for day trips out of the city if needed. While San Francisco is very walkable, it does have those famous hills so consider your hotel choice carefully. If your children are a little older and you won’t be pushing a stroller, try my favorite SF hotel, the stately Mark Hopkins on Nob Hill. The hotel is beautiful, recently renovated and well situated for sightseeing. The hotel offers amazing views on all sides and, best of all, the venerable Top of the Mark is on the 19th floor. You’re just a short (hilly!) walk from Chinatown, Union Square, and North Beach. If you would prefer to be in the center of the biggest tourist attractions, choose one of the Fisherman’s Wharf hotels. You won’t find a lot of charm but you will find reasonably priced chain hotels that offer convenience. The exception is a Fisherman’s Wharf stand out–The Argonaut, situated right near Ghirardelli Square, is a beautiful hotel with excellent amenities. You’ll likely pay a substantially higher rate than at the chains but depending on your budget and needs it may very well be worth the price difference. Staying in the Fisherman’s Wharf area means you can easily walk to the major attractions. The neighborhood stretches from Ghirardelli Square at the west end to Pier 39 at the east. There are plenty of cheap eats at your door as well: everything from graband-go clam chowder and seafood meals to McDonald’s, Pizza Hut, and other fast food places. In general, you won’t find fine dining in this area but kids will love the location and walking back and forth along the wharf can keep them amused for hours. After you’ve decided on your hotel, the easiest way to plan a San Francisco vacation is to create your daily itinerary according to neighborhood. Here are my suggestions for each major neighborhood and the approximate time you’ll need for the attractions. 44

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Chinatown San Francisco’s Chinatown is the oldest and largest in North America. Ornate, jaderoofed Chinatown Gate at Grant Avenue and Bush Street marks the entry. The best way to see it is to simply start walking. It’s always busy and bustling with lots of street entertainers. There are several Buddhist temples in the community that welcome visitors. Enter quietly if you do visit. If you’d like to have lunch in Chinatown, your best bet is to check online reviews before choosing. There are so many excellent restaurants that it’s hard to pick. Kids will enjoy the markets where you can pick up inexpensive souvenirs. Time Needed: a few hours Fisherman’s Wharf My “don’t miss” list includes checking out the California sea lions on the docks at Pier 39. You’ll also catch the ferry to Alcatraz for tours of the famous island jail on Pier 39. Ghirardelli Square is worth a stop for a sundae (expensive but delicious!) at the eponymous ice cream shop. You can catch the Powell–Mason cable car NEAPOLITANfamily • May 2015

right across the street. At Pier 45, don’t miss the Musée Mécanique, an antique games arcade where you can play the old machines. Some will only cost you a penny to play–it’s a fun stop for kids and adults. Time Needed: ½ day if you’re not taking Alcatraz tour, 1 day if you are Golden Gate Park You could spend an entire vacation at Golden Gate Park–it’s that big (more than 1,000 acres). You may want to plan your time at the park around two or three of the major attractions. Kids will love The California Academy of Sciences with its 2-1/2 acre living roof. The academy contains the Kimball Natural History Museum, a planetarium, an aquarium and a rainforest dome that is home to 38,000 living animals. A visit to the spectacular DeYoung Museum is also a must. Two floors of the museum are permanent exhibits with rotating exhibits in the basement galleries. A side note: the museum restaurant is very good and you can take your meal to the back patio for a lovely view. My favorite stop in the park is the Japanese Tea Garden. The winding paths are intricate and feature Chinese and Japanese plants with beautiful bridges and sculptures throughout the garden. An interesting fact: the family of the man who invented the fortune cookie supervised the garden construction. I highly recommend the gift shop where I’ve found unique souvenirs. The park has so such to offer that it’s almost impossible to list all the possibilities: a carousel, music pavilions, a beach, Frisbee golf, bison (yes, bison!), several lakes and so much more. Your best bet is to stop at McLaren Lodge at the entrance to the park at the beginning of your visit. The lodge houses the Recreation Department, and the staff is well versed on every inch of the park. They also have up to date information on special events. The office is open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday. Time Needed: At least one full day

The Marina The two biggest draws in the Marina are The Palace of Fine Arts and the Golden Gate Bridge. It also boasts an upscale, trendy shopping area and excellent restaurants. On a sunny day, pack a picnic and head to Crissy Field where you’ll find the Golden Gate Promenade, a 28-acre shoreline path that is perfect for a lazy afternoon. In the same area you’ll find Fort Mason, which hosts a variety of festivals and events year round. The entire area is perfect for strolling, rollerblading and biking. The best time to view the Golden Gate Bridge is either early in the morning or right before sunset. Pedestrians can walk the length of the 1.7-mile bridge–it is open from 5 a.m. to 9 p.m. in the summer. After you walk the length, stop at Hendrik Point underneath the end of the bridge where you’ll have an awesome view of the bridge and San Francisco skyline. From the San Francisco side, Fort Point offers a beautiful view of the bridge from the bottom looking up and is perfect for fog-filled photos in the early morning. Time Needed: a half day Nob Hill If you aren’t staying at the Mark Hopkins, make time for a visit to Nob Hill. The spectacular Grace Cathedral is a must see and one block from the Mark Hopkins. The indoor labyrinth is stunning and depending on the timing of your visit, you may be able to attend a service or musical concert at the cathedral. Across from the Mark Hopkins is another special SF hotel: the Fairmont. Check out the lobby for seasonal displays that are always delightful. You can catch a cable car for a ride through the area at the back end of The Fairmont. You’ll definitely want to have a drink at the Top of the Mark inside the Mark Hopkins. Children are welcome and the view is amazing. Union Square is a short walk from Nob Hill. The square is lined with every

imaginable store but the shopping is relatively generic so skip it unless you really need to buy something for your trip. Time Needed: a few hours North Beach North Beach is SF’s “Little Italy” and if you have any interest in the 1960s or the Beat movement, you’ll want to put this neighborhood at the top of your list. In addition to the many small restaurants and shops, you’ll find the iconic City Lights Bookstore (forget bringing in rambunctious kids—it’s tight inside!). The Beat Museum is a treat for Jack Kerouac fans and older kids may enjoy it. If nothing else, tweens and teens will enjoy picking out vintage pins for their backpacks and browsing through the excellent record collection in the museum store. Between City Lights and Vesuvio is Kerouac Alley, a one-way alleyway with engraved poetry and quotes from famous writers. The alleyway connects Chinatown to North Beach. If you’re a movie fan, drop by the Columbus Tower/Sentinel Building at 916 Kearny Street. The copper-green flatiron building is home to Francis Ford Coppola’s American Zoetrope Studios. The ground floor café is excellent and the tables outside afford an excellent perch for people watching. Later in the day, drop by Washington Square Park to watch locals practice Tai Chi before you head up to Coit Tower an hour or so before sunset for spectacular city views. This favorite landmark was donated to the city in 1929 by Lillie Hitchcock Coit, an eccentric, cross-dressing volunteer firefighter. The Tower is the perfect spot to watch the sun come down on the city. Time Needed: a few hours to a full day depending on your family’s interests Once you’ve set up a general neighborhood itinerary, you can check out our links at neafamily.com for more specific kid-friendly destinations and activities. However you choose to organize your trip, a vacation is San Francisco will give you memories to treasure forever!

“San Francisco has only one drawback—‘tis hard to leave.” ~Rudyard Kipling NEAPOLITANfamily • May 2015

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FOR MORE INFORMATION: CHILD CARE SERVICES

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PRE-K PROGRAMS: THURSDAYS 10 AM (Most enjoyed by children 5 and younger)

Explore nature and discover amazing animals through multi-sensory, interactive activities, stories, and crafts in our Little Explorer Play Zone. No registration required. Members: FREE Non-members: FREE with Nature Center admission.

May 7: May 21: June 4: June 18: July 2: July 16: July 30: Aug.13: Aug. 27:

Johnny Longlegs Oopsie Otter Oozey Octopus Stevie B. Sea Horse House for Hermit Crab Great Sharky Shark Izzie Lizzie Alligator Jenny Jellyfish Rosie Ray

Exhibit is open daily 9:30 AM - 4:30 PM 1495 Smith Preserve Way x Naples, Florida 34102 x 239.262.0304 x www.conservancy.org Explorer_7.25_9.5.indd 48NEAFAM_Little neafamily.com

4/24/15 10:32 AM

NEAPOLITANfamily â&#x20AC;˘ May 2015