November 2015 Neapolitan Family by Neapolitan Family

November 2015 neafamily.com

COMPLIMENTARY

Giving Back Our Annual

Guide to Local Non-Profits That Need Your Help THANKSGIVING TRADITIONS YOUR FAMILY WILL LOVE plus CELEBRATING THE APPLE, AUTUMN’S FAVORITE FOOD

NEAPOLITANfamily • November 2015

neafamily.com

the parenting magazine devoted to collier county

November Theme: Superheroes Night

Movie:

The Incredibles

Price:

Members: $20 per family Non-members: $30 per family

YMCA Rooftop

Family Fridays Greater Naples YMCA • November 20th • 6:30 - 10:00 PM

• Games • Themes

• Costume Contest • Movies • Super Hero Relay Race • Fun!

SAVE YOUR SPOT!

This month’s sponsor:

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www.GreaterNaplesYMCA.org NEAPOLITANfamily • November 2015

EXPERIENCE BLUE ZONES PROJECT FOR A

Healthier Southwest Florida Join us to experience Blue Zones Project® and learn how to make the healthy choice the easy choice. Bring a friend—it’s a well-being initiative for the entire community.

SAVE THE DATE: Saturday, November 14 North Collier Regional Park 15000 Livingston Rd 9:00 a.m.

Arrive early for a free water bottle, healthy food samples, and more! Questions? BlueZonesProjectSouthwestFlorida@Healthways.com

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NOVEMBER 2015 TABLE OF CONTENTS

in every issue . . . 04 06 07 08 10 12 13 19 23 24 26

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 RACHEL RECOMMENDS Book reviews for kids by a kid CITY CONNECTION City of Naples Parks Department News and Events COMMUNITY EVENTS CENTERFOLD CALENDAR NOVEMBER EVENTS

on the cover…

14 New Mom’s Corner: Becoming a Parent. Two families choose different routes to parenthood. by Anna Futrell 16 Breaking With Tradition Without Breaking Your Family. Have a more relaxed and happier holiday by choosing the holiday traditions that work for your family. by Lara Krupicka 18 Thanksgiving Traditions from Our Family To Yours. Local events, faith-based services and fun home activities to try. Plus, our readers offer their holiday suggestions. by Anna Futrell 20 An Apple A Day. Celebrating our favorite fruit with a little history, nutrition information and a few quick recipes 38 30 Days of Giving. Our annual directory of local non-profits that need your help. Celebrate Nonprofit Awareness Month by giving! by Stacy Nicolau

Hadley Murphey is the daughter of Bryan and Heather Murphey of Naples. She is 8 years old and attends Veterans Memorial Elementary. Hadley has two teenage brothers, Alex (15) and Graham (14). 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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NEAPOLITANfamily • November 2015

from the publisher…

the parenting magazine devoted to collier county

P.O. Box 110656 Naples, FL 34108 (239) 514-0338 Phone (239) 514-0339 Fax info@neafamily.com Publisher Andrea Breznay andrea@neafamily.com Assistant Publisher Stacy Nicolau snicolau@neafamily.com Copy Editor Leigh Ann Newman 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 • November 2015

THIS MONTH:

Giving Back and Giving Thanks

There is no better month to focus on gratitude than November. I’m a huge believer in taking time daily to express my gratitude. For the past few weeks, I’ve been exchanging gratitude texts with my friend Nikki. Because she lives in North Carolina we don’t get to see other regularly so the texts serve as a way to maintain contact and remind each other that we both have plenty in our lives to be thankful for. Taking one minute each morning to remind myself that I have so many positives in my life is a great way to start each day. One of the people I’m grateful for is our cover photographer Peggy Farren. Each month we work together to create the cover for the issue. Peggy is infinitely patient with me when I bring my crazy ideas to her and somehow she makes them happen. This month I wanted our beautiful cover model to be in a field so Peggy complied and found an empty lot where we could shoot. That the field was filled with broken glass, horribly painful prickly bushes and fire ant mounds didn’t deter her from getting exactly what I wanted. Thanks Peggy! How many times have you promised yourself that this would be the year that you’d find the time to volunteer? During the holiday season, we usually get a few reminders that there are people in our community who need help. We’re offering one of those reminders in this issue with our Annual Guide to Giving Back. Each year Stacy Nicolau researches local organizations that need your time and money and compiles a list of 30. Please check out the descriptions on pages 38-45. If you’re one of those who really would like to volunteer but you haven’t yet found the right fit, pick one of our 30 and give a little of your time. Even a few hours a month will be appreciated! You can also access the previous two directories online at neafamily.com. We’ll have the link on the home page. Happy Thanksgiving!

Andrea Breznay Publisher

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REEL LIFE WITH JANE

By Jane Louise Boursaw

Family Movie & DVD Reviews N

ew movies for kids and teens this month include a new James Bond film, the Peanuts gang, a story about a Good Dinosaur and lots more. Here’s a sneak peek at what’s new in theaters and on DVD and Blu-ray in November. Note that release dates are subject to change. in the mine, and depicting the courage of both the miners and their families. MY ALL AMERICAN Not yet rated; • In Theaters 11/13 (limited) Ok for Kids 13+ Reel Preview: 3.5 of 5 Reels

BROOKLYN

THE PEANUTS MOVIE

PG-13 for a scene of sexuality and brief strong language • In Theaters 11/4 (limited) Ok for Kids 13+ • Reel Preview: 4 of 5 Reels

Rated G • In Theaters 11/6 Ok for Kids 4+ • Reel Preview: 4 of 5 Reels

“Brooklyn” tells the moving story of Eilis Lacey (Saoirse Ronan), a young Irish immigrant navigating her way through 1950s Brooklyn. Lured by the promise of America, Eilis departs Ireland and the comfort of her mother’s home for New York City. The initial shackles of homesickness quickly diminish as a fresh romance sweeps Eilis into the intoxicating charm of love. But soon, her new life is disrupted by her past, and Eilis must choose between two countries. SPECTRE PG-13 for intense sequences of action and violence, some disturbing images, sensuality and language • In Theaters 11/6 Ok for Kids 14+ Preview: 4.5 of 5 Reels

The latest 007 film centers on a cryptic message from the past that sends James Bond (Daniel Craig) on a rogue mission to Mexico City and eventually Rome, where he meets Lucia Sciarra (Monica Bellucci), the beautiful and forbidden widow of an infamous criminal. Bond infiltrates a secret meeting and uncovers the existence of the sinister organization known as SPECTRE. 8

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Directed by Steve Martino, this brand new Peanuts movie - CGI animated and 3D - finds Snoopy, the world’s most lovable beagle (and flying ace!) embarking on his greatest mission as he and his team take to the skies to pursue their arch-nemesis. Meanwhile back home, his best pal Charlie Brown begins his own epic quest. THE 33 PG-13 for a disaster sequence and some language • In Theaters 11/13 Ok for Kids 13+ Reel Preview: 3.5 of 5 Reels

In 2010, the eyes of the world turned to Chile, where 33 miners were buried alive by the catastrophic explosion and collapse of a 100-year-old gold and copper mine. Over the next 69 days, an international team worked night and day in a desperate attempt to rescue the trapped men, as their families, friends, and millions of people waited anxiously for any sign of hope. A story of resilience, personal transformation and triumph of the human spirit, “The 33” takes us to the Earth’s darkest depths, revealing the psyches of the men trapped

What Freddie Steinmark (Finn Wittrock) wants most in the world is to play football. Deemed too small by the usual athletic standards, his father trains him hard, and Freddie brings a fight to the game that ultimately gets him noticed by legendary University of Texas coach Darrell Royal (Aaron Eckhart). Awarded a scholarship Freddie moves to Austin with his high school sweetheart Linda (Sarah Bolger), determined to make the team. Freddie is put through the paces of a grueling practice schedule. But just as the team is reveling in the success of the season, Freddie suffers an injury that leads to the biggest challenge he will ever face. LOVE THE COOPERS PG-13 for thematic elements, language and some sexuality • In Theaters 11/13 Ok for Kids 13+ • Reel Preview: 4 of 5 Reels

This comedy centers on the Cooper clan, four generations of extended family who come together for their annual Christmas Eve celebration. As the evening unfolds, a series of unexpected visitors and unlikely events turn things upside down, leading them all toward a surprising rediscovery of family bonds and the spirit of the holiday. THE HUNGER GAMES: MOCKINGJAY - PART 2 PG-13 for intense sequences of violence and action, and for some thematic material In Theaters 11/20 (IMAX, 2D) Ok for Kids 13+ Reel Preview: 4.5 of 5 Reels

“The Hunger Games” franchise arrives at its final chapter with “The Hunger Games: NEAPOLITANfamily • November 2015

Mockingjay - Part 2,” in which Katniss Everdeen (Jennifer Lawrence) now fully realizes the stakes are no longer just for survival, they are for the future. THE GOOD DINOSAUR Not yet rated; like G or PG In Theaters 11/25 (3D, 2D) Ok for Kids 6+ • Reel Preview: 4 of 5 Reels

What if the asteroid that forever changed life on Earth missed the planet completely and giant dinosaurs never became extinct? Pixar takes you on an epic journey into the world of dinosaurs where an Apatosaurus named Arlo makes an unlikely human friend. While traveling through a harsh and mysterious landscape, Arlo learns the power of confronting his fears and discovers that he’s stronger than he thought. CREED Not yet rated; likely PG-13 In Theaters 11/25 • Ok for Kids 14+ Reel Preview: 4 of 5 Reels

Another “Rocky” film? Yes, starring and produced by Sylvester Stallone. Adonis Johnson (Jordan) never knew his famous father, world heavyweight champion Apollo Creed, who died before he was born. But there’s no denying that boxing is in his blood, so Adonis heads to Philadelphia, the site of Apollo Creed’s legendary match with a tough upstart named Rocky Balboa. Adonis tracks down Rocky (Stallone) and asks him to be his trainer. Although out of the fight game, Rocky sees in Adonis the strength and determination he knew in Apollo and agrees to take him on. VICTOR FRANKENSTEIN PG-13 for macabre images, violence and a

sequence of destruction • In Theaters 11/25 Ok for Kids 13+ Reel Preview: 3.5 of 5 Reels

James McAvoy and Daniel Radcliffe star in this thrilling twist on the legendary tale written by Mary Shelley. Radical scientist Victor Frankenstein (McAvoy) and his equally brilliant protégé Igor Strausman (Radcliffe) share a noble vision of aiding humanity through their groundbreaking research into immortality. But Victor’s experiments go too far, and his obsession has horrifying consequences. NEW ON DVD/BLU-RAY: INSIDE OUT PG for mild thematic elements and some action • On DVD/Blu-ray/Digital HD 11/3 Ok for Kids 6+ • Reel Review: 5 of 5 Reels

One of the cutest movies of 2015 is out on DVD, Blu-ray and Digital HD! When 11-year-old Riley (Kaitlyn Dias) moves to a new city, her Emotions team steps up to help her through the transition. Joy (Amy Poehler), Fear (Bill Hader), Anger (Lewis Black), Disgust (Mindy Kaling) and Sadness (Phyllis Smith) work together, but when Joy and Sadness get lost, they must journey through unfamiliar territory to get back home. This sweet family movie teaches kids that every emotion is important. TOY STORY THAT TIME FORGOT PG for rude humor On Blu-ray/Digital HD 11/3 Ok for Kids 5+ • Reel Review: 4.5 of 5 Reels

This installment of the long-running Disney Pixar franchise centers on our beloved crew finding themselves in uncharted territory during one of Bonnie’s post-Christmas playdates. When the coolest set of action

figures ever turn out to be dangerously delusional, it’s up to Trixie the triceratops to get the gang back to Bonnie’s room. ELF: BUDDY’S MUSICAL CHRISTMAS Not Rated • On Blu-ray/Digital HD 11/3 Ok for Kids 4+ • Reel Review: 4 of 5 Reels

Based on the Broadway musical adaptation of the hit Christmas movie “Elf,” this animated movie tells the story of Buddy the Elf (Jim Parsons) and his quest to reunite with the human father he never knew existed. T0hrough song, dance, and relentless good cheer, Buddy rekindles the spirit of Christmas for the entire city. A HORSE TALE Rated G • On DVD/Digital 11/17 • Ok for Kids 7+ • Reel Review: 4 of 5 Reels

This film, which received a “Family Approved” seal from the Dove Foundation, centers on a big-city accountant, Michael Thompson, who’s raising a teenage daughter, Chloe, on his own. When they take a working Christmas vacation at a beautiful horse farm in the country, sparks fly between Michael and Samantha, a third-generation horse farmer with a farm on the brink of foreclosure. Meanwhile, Chloe discovers a new best friend in Holly, a thoroughbred who could be the answer to saving the farm. Working together as a family and accepting help are central themes in this movie. 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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COLLIER COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOLS

By Katie Tanner, Communications Specialist for CCPS

Lace Up Your Shoes for the CCPS 5K Walk-Run! Funds to be used for health & wellness initiatives

lmost every time I walk into one of our schools, I catch myself saying, “I wish my school had that when I was a kid!” Most recently, I have visited a few elementary schools where students were getting their hands dirty in the school’s garden. I remember watching a lima bean sprout in first grade, but that doesn’t compare to the fabulous fruits and vegetables growing in our school gardens these days. School gardens provide students so many learning opportunities – not just academically, but also through vocational skills. On top of

all that, the students get to enjoy the fruits (pun intended) of their labor and maybe even try out a new healthy food they haven’t had before. Students at the middle school level are enjoying similar experiences. At Golden Gate Middle School, students in Ms. Heller’s culinary class are learning their way around the kitchen and getting to try out new healthy recipes. One student I talked to had just tried spinach for the first time in the chicken wrap he put together. Collier County Public Schools (CCPS) is hoping to provide more experiences and opportunities like these at our schools through our first-ever CCPS 5K Walk-Run to be held on December 5th. All of the money raised by this race will go back to the schools to be used for health and wellness initiatives. “We will be deciding as a school how we wish to use the funds, but we are interested in enhancing our classroom vegetable gardens and our school butterfly garden,” explains Tammy Brown, Principal at Naples Park Elementary. She also tells me they are interested in purchasing some “Walking Classroom” kits which allow students to strengthen their physical, mental, and academic health while they walk, listen, and learn. Oakridge Middle School is also looking into starting a school garden. “It Top photo: Students at Naples Park Elementary prep their garden for planting. Bottom photo: Golden Gate Middle School students preps food during culinary arts class.

would be great to use what we grow in our culinary program,” says Principal Kim Lonergan. Whatever the idea may be, I can certainly tell you that our school principals are excited about the support the CCPS 5K Walk-Run will bring. School principals are also looking forward to showing off their school spirit at the actual race. The race, powered by Suncoast Credit Union, is being organized by Gulf Coast Runners and will be held on the Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., Administrative Center Campus starting at 8:00 a.m. It features a 5K timed race, 5K fun run, or 1-mile walk. We will be awarding both school and non-school teams for having the most participants and the most team spirit. In addition to the race, there will also be a health fair for families, activities for kids, and Collier County’s largest yoga class to be held after the race on the football field of Barron Collier High School. CCPS 5K Walk-Run December 5, 8:00 a.m. You can visit www.collierschools.com/ ccps5k to sign up and find more details about the race. All participants will receive a gender-specific, short-sleeve race shirt. There is also special pricing for students and CCPS staff and a group discount for families. We hope you will share your school spirit and join us December 5th!

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NEAPOLITANfamily • November 2015

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COLLIER COUNTY SCHOOL BOARD UPDATE

By Erika Donalds

Explaining the “Cut Score”

Why It’s So Important to Your Child’s Education

loridians have reasons to celebrate when we talk about how well our students are doing and how much they are learning. We have led the nation in closing the achievement gap in many areas, and graduation rates have been steadily rising. With the help of our amazing teachers, Florida has done this by challenging schools to do a better job and compelling students to set their sights higher – clear and simple A-F school grades and increasing choice opportunities have also been critical on that path to success. But we have not arrived. And right now, Florida is on the verge of a big decision that will either set higher, honest expectations for our children or mask failure. I am talking about something called a proficiency “cut score.” A cut score is the line drawn on our state exam, the Florida Standards Assessment (FSA), to show whether a child is proficient in a subject. This is important because no matter how great our standards or our tests, if we set a low passing bar, we are not helping our students. Is it honest to set cut scores low, so students are passed along without being fully prepared and more adults can congratulate themselves for a job well done? As a parent and school board member, I say no. In 2013, Florida reported that approximately 60 percent of 4th graders were “proficient” in reading, yet in the same year on the Nation’s Report Card (NAEP), only 39 percent of our 4th graders were deemed “proficient” readers. This means about 21 percent of Florida’s 4th grade students believed they were proficient readers when they were not. That’s tens of thousands of

students who will find out later in life they are unprepared when they cannot quality for the military or must take remedial courses in college. We tell our children to dream big, because they can achieve anything they set their minds to. Being 100% honest with them about how they are faring academically is critical if we truly want to help them reach their goals. If a child needs help in a subject, let’s tell them sooner rather than later. While we can celebrate how far we’ve come, still only 19 percent of 2014 ACTtested high school graduates were college ready in all 4 benchmarks. And in 2012, Complete College America reported that 65,000 Florida freshmen students entering 2-year colleges require remediation. The state of Florida must raise the bar, and increase its cut scores closer to those aligned with NAEP, so that parents and students have consistent and honest information. If we truly want to ensure their “college and career readiness”, this is the most important thing the state can do. The State of Georgia, which actually had the worst proficiency gap in the

country (ranging between 45-65 points), raised its cut scores on the new Georgia Milestones test to virtually eliminate the state’s gap. We should continue pressing forward and make Florida number one in the country by not only having high proficiency expectations on our state test, but by empowering parents and students with the correct information about their child’s progress, and the tools to help them meet their academic goals. We must diligently prepare students for the competition they will face nationally and internationally in the years ahead. Will test scores possibly drop? Sure, but that should be nothing to fear if we care about our students’ futures. I would prefer a truthful, lower score to a higher, cushioned score. Tell me now if I need to intervene to help my child. Parents, please join me in emailing the Florida Department of Education at assessment@fldoe.org, and encourage Florida to continue the progress being made. Let’s raise the proficiency cut score and be honest about where we are, so we can work together to help our students soar.

“… Florida is on the verge of a big decision that will either set higher, honest expectations for our children or mask failure.” 12

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NEAPOLITANfamily • November 2015

RACHEL RECOMMENDS

Book Reviews

RACHEL NEWMAN is 10 years old and in the fifth grade at Sea Gate Elementary. She is active in Irish dancing, piano, flute, acting and volleyball. Writing, reading, and watching “I Love Lucy” are her great joys, along with taking pictures of her cats.

Review of Nory Ryan’s Song by Patricia Reilly Giff

ory Ryan’s Song is a great story because it explains to kids about the Great Famine in Ireland, which was a troubling time in history. Potato crops all over Ireland rotted because of a disease called blight. Poor people in Ireland mainly ate potatoes that they grew themselves, so when the blight happened, many people starved because they didn’t have any money to buy other food. The thing that people forget is that even without potatoes, there still was enough food in Ireland for everyone to eat. But much of that food was sent to England, because the Irish peasants couldn’t afford to buy it. Also many people were kicked out of their homes and farms because even though their English landlords knew they were starving and had to use what little money they had to buy a little food. Another thing in the book that made me really mad was when Lord Cunningham, who owned most of the land near where Nory lived, banned the Irish people from fishing on his property. Things were so bad that millions of Irish immigrated to the United States for a better life. This book tells the story of Nory Ryan, a girl growing up during the Famine, and what it was like for her and her family. It also lets you know what it is like to immigrate to a new country. Nory was left behind with her little brother Patch while everyone else in her family went to America. Nory is a girl who honestly wants nothing but for her family to all be together and happy in America. Even Anna Donnelly (the woman in the village who people are frightened of ) called her “a brave girl.” I also believe in good and kind people. I don’t believe there was any time at all while reading this book that I didn’t have mixed emotions because there were lots of sad moments, but also lots of happy moments. I really connected with this book because I was born in Ireland and immigrated to the United States when I was a baby, and it’s important for me to know about my heritage. For me, it’s hard to find books that are interesting and also tell me something about history. I never believed that I would read, not to mention enjoy, this book, but somehow, Patricia Giff made sure that I loved it. Kids ages 8 and older would love this book because it truly warms your heart.

If you have suggestions for books for Rachel to review, e-mail your suggestions to: rachel.v.newman@outlook.com. NEAPOLITANfamily • November 2015

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NEW MOM’S CORNER

By Anna Futrell

Different Paths to Parenthood One SW Florida has fostered six children over the past two years while another family chose to adopt a newborn.

had the privilege of interviewing two couples who became parents recently: one couple through foster care, and the other through adoption. I gained a new understand of my own role as a mom through these interviews, and I hope you find their stories as encouraging as I did. NEW PARENTS THROUGH FOSTER CARE Casey and Matt Nance have been married for six years. They live and work in Southwest Florida; Casey is a dental hygienist, and Matt is an independent insurance broker. They became licensed as foster parents in May 2014. Since then, they have had six children live in their home. What have been some challenges you have faced as new foster parents? We have never had any children of our own. So for us, becoming new foster parents was kind of like becoming parents for the first time. We went from having zero kids to dealing with nap times, feeding schedules,

freezing teething toys, borrowing bouncy chairs, and buying and using more diapers and baby wipes than you can ever imagine. Fortunately, we had a lot of friends and family who are very helpful and supportive. With foster care, kids come to us with a history, and we never really know all the details. The day a child is removed from their home may be one of the most traumatic days of their life. Most of the children that have come into our home have only the clothes that they’re wearing and tear-filled eyes. We don’t know all the details of the abuse that has occurred, or what the children have experienced. Over time, we help the children to overcome and cope with those experiences. What have you loved about being foster parents? What I love most about being a foster mom is watching my kids thrive. Children are so much more resilient than we give them credit for. Most kids just need a chance. Simply being available to these children and providing a safe, loving home has added so much joy to our lives, and can make all the difference in their young lives. How do you think your challenges have been different to other parents you know? One of the challenges we face that’s different from other families is we never really know how long the children will be in our

Casey and Matt Nance have fostered six children over the past two years.

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home. Sometimes kids stay one night, others stay a few weeks, months, or even years. As you think back over your experience as foster parents, what are you thankful for? One of the things I am most thankful for is how these children have enriched our lives. My husband and I knew we wanted a family. We have struggled to get pregnant for several years, and we decided that fostering would be a good way to be available for kids who wanted a family, too. What encouragement would you offer to other new foster parents? Rely on a good support system. We have had tremendous support from family, friends, and community outreaches such as Friends of Foster Children of Southwest Florida. Also, know that the foster system isn’t perfect. This was so hard for me. Things don’t always go the way I would like them to go, or the way I think they ought to go. The important thing is to be available for these kids. I take comfort in knowing that however long we had children in our home, for that time, those children knew they were important, loved, and safe. For more information on becoming foster parents, contact Children’s Network of Southwest Florida at 1-855-933-KIDS or at www.ChildNetSWFL.org or Yohana Resto at Florida Baptist Children’s Homes at Yohana. Resto@FBCHomes.org or (239) 850-4335. NEW PARENTS THROUGH ADOPTION Allison and Jonathan Thomas (not their real last name) were married in 2011, and live in Fort Myers. Jonathan is a nurse anesthetist. Allison is a speech pathologist who currently stays at home with their two-year-old daughter, whom they adopted as an infant. NEAPOLITANfamily • November 2015

Allison and Jonathan adopted a newborn daughter in 2013.

our child’s personality and her gifts, and to watch her grow. She has amazing genetics that I wasn’t able to give her. God used someone else’s genetics to make my baby, and then brought strangers together to help heal each other’s hearts. As you think back over your experience becoming parents, what are you thankful for? I am thankful that her birth mother chose life. Pregnancy is no cake walk, and at the end of nine months to rip out your heart and hand it to another woman … that is selfless love. When did you adopt your daughter? My husband has a lot of family and friends who have adopted, so from the time we got married, it was something we discussed. We decided to start the adoption process after some infertility struggles. Nothing was found to be “wrong,” but we didn’t get pregnant. We decided not to embark on infertility treatments, and we were excited to start a family.

experience for both of them, and that our daughter will feel loved by her. I will never replace her birth mother, but now I understand that she will never replace me.

What have been some challenges you have faced as new parents? Our challenges have been similar to most parents: colic, sleep training, and toddlerhood. And how could I forget potty training, as my daughter runs around me bare bummed! I was pretty worried about not being her only mom, or my daughter eventually choosing her birth mother over me. Once I held her, those fears went away. One day, when she’s ready to meet her birth mother, I hope that it will be an amazing

How do you think your challenges have been unique when compared to other parents you know? Right now, our daughter is too young to understand adoption. I know one day we may have some adoption-related struggles, but every parent is going to have their own set of struggles to walk through with their child. Adoption seems scary, but I think anything different is. And different isn’t a bad thing. It is so much fun to discover

What have you loved about being a mom? Almost everything! I love when she says “mommy funny,” falls asleep in her car seat and I carry her little self in. I love when she learns new things her kisses and hugs.

Kids Galore & More Community Consignment Event

What encouragement would you offer to other new parents in the process of adopting or looking to adopt? Do it – adopt! Adoption is scary and different, but I don’t know any adoptive parents who regret adopting. My child is as loved and worthy as any genetic child. I would also encourage adoptive families to be open to the thought of their child not “looking like them.” Our daughter happens to look similar to my husband and myself, but that has nothing to do with why we love her. She has cousins (my nieces and nephews) of three different ethnicities -- some adopted and some biological. All are loved the same, and all fit into our family perfectly. Both the Nance family and the Thomas family became parents in unique ways, and their experiences are so encouraging to other new parents. No matter how we grow our families, becoming a parent has unique challenges and joys. All we need to do is love our children deeply and enjoy the ride!

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

Offering families an opportunity to BUY and SELL gently used and new baby, kids and maternity items at a fraction of the cost. Fall/Winter 2015 Sale Events Cape Coal Fall Sale • Saturday, November 7th Noonan Academy of Cape Coral, 3528 S.W. 3rd Avenue, Cape Coral, FL 33914 Fort Myers Fall Sale • Saturday, November 14th Bobbie Noonan Child Care, 8560 Crystal Court, Fort Myers, FL 33907

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

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NEAPOLITANfamily • November 2015

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HAPPY, HEALTHY FAMILY

he first year we were married, my husband and I spent Thanksgiving dinner with friends - just the four of us and an unorthodox dinner of steak. We naively thought it would help us carve a space for our own traditions. Instead it left me feeling like I had missed out. Now with our three children we keep my family’s tradition of homemade pumpkin doughnuts for breakfast and join extended family for the typical Thanksgiving meal. But we don’t always attend a Thanksgiving parade like other relatives do. Nor do we feel obligated to watch football after dinner. We have finally settled into a version of Thanksgiving that suits us well. Some family traditions aren’t so easily adapted. But when they begin to chafe from being ill-suited to our current lifestyle or situation, making a switch can become a necessary, if painful process. If you are anticipating a holiday season with customs

By Lara Krupicka that have overstayed their welcome, or if this year portends to be an unconventional one, consider these tips for changing things. Tag-Team It If one person is responsible for keeping the traditions going, but is overwhelmed, it might be time to enlist help. Evaluate which tradition-making tasks can be passed on. Can you trust an older child to set the table for Thanksgiving dinner? Would the other spouse be willing to take over making the gravy or preparing another dish? As Catherine McNeil, a mother of three found out, buying holiday foods at the store instead of making them herself did not detract from her children’s experience. “They don’t know or care whether I bought or made the Chex Mix.” But if you give control of a tradition to someone else, you should also give up your expectations of what it should look

like. “We put expectations on ourselves. But no one is keeping score,” McNeil says. Go Radical - This Once Some years can be harder than others to keep up traditions - whether due to a move, a death in the family, or multiple challenges piling up. In those instances it may be best to forgo some in order to remain sane and healthy. But it does not mean that will be easy. Traditions can feel sacred. After all, as Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor Grant Stenzel says, “Traditions are harder because we have such emotions tied to them - not just current, but emotions from our childhood.” Those emotions can trip us up by causing us to overburden ourselves when circumstances suggest we need to do something different. If you must to be radical about dropping one or more customs entirely, take

Breaking With Tradition

Without Breaking Your Family 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 16

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NEAPOLITANfamily • November 2015

it one year at a time. Reassure everyone you can always bring the tradition back next year. Then consider what benefits you will gain by scaling back. For McNeil, it was a matter of finding peace and joy in celebrating the holidays, instead of being stressed out by the extra work involved. When circumstances collided to make the holidays more stressful than normal, McNeil knew a few traditions would have to slide. She chose to let go of traditions that were the most timeconsuming and least gratifying for her children: the family picture and Christmas cards, holiday baking, and a few annual events her family usually attended. Select a Substitute The Brakel family found an inventive way to display their Christmas ornaments when an out of town trip made their tradition of a live tree impractical. Bruce Brakel remembered the displays he had seen of light strings anchored to a flag pole in a conical tree shape. He and his daughters decided to HARD CONVERSATIONS create the same shape out of rib- Stenzel offers some guidelines for bons anchored to a central point having a fruitful conversation on the living room ceiling and about changing (or dropping) weighted down by bricks covered a tradition: in wrapping paper, like gifts. - Validate the emotions famThen they hung their ornaments ily members are experiencing along the strands of ribbon. regarding a custom that might “Both the girls like doing have to go. crafts, so it turned into everybody - Find something you can participating in a craft. And it agree on that will fill the emowas an opportunity for everyone tional needs met by a tradition to provide artistic input,” Brakel - Pick a time separate from says. The change was a positive holiday observations to disone. The ribbon tree left more cuss what you will observe. space and fewer needles in their - Make sure everyone is calm living room than a live tree. And when you begin discussions. the ornaments were more visible amidst the thin ribbons instead of tree branches. The only thing missing was the scent of evergreen. But since they weren’t home much, the lack was minor. When you consider a substitute, Brakel suggests thinking hard about which aspects of the old observance can be preserved. “Take baby steps,” says Stenzel. “Ease into it instead of being black and white; all or nothing.” When it comes down to it, we all need traditions. As Brakel notes, “traditions are important. They provide continuity and family identity.” But Stenzel points out that we need to value the people we share them with even more. And sometimes that means making a change.

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LARA KRUPICKA is a parenting journalist and author of Family Bucket Lists: Bring More Fun, Adventure & Camaraderie Into Every Day. As mom to three girls she has found the most memorable holidays were also the least traditional.

239-404-6066 PoolMD@hotmail.com

NEAPOLITANfamily • November 2015

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HOLIDAYS

By ANNA FUTRELL

Thanksgiving Traditions from Our Family to Yours

hat’s not to love about Thanksgiving? Delicious food

and time with friends and family abound during the end of November each year. We all have blessings in life for which we can give thanks and express gratitude – no matter what challenges and hardships we face. Are you looking for a way to cultivate a sense of gratitude and thankfulness within your home during this holiday season? What are some Thanksgiving traditions to embrace with your children – ones you can all look forward to year after year? We have a few ideas to share! THANKSGIVING EVENTS Attending an event can be a fantastic way to get your children excited about Thanksgiving. Make one or more of these outings a yearly tradition to have fun together as a family and to encourage grateful hearts. You can check the print calendar in this issue or our online calendar at neafamily.com for more ideas. Thanksgiving Day Races. Run or walk in one of two Thanksgiving Day races in Naples, both of which benefit St. Matthew’s House. • Check out the Gulf Coast Runners Thanksgiving 5k. This event, which starts and ends in downtown Naples, offers a free onemile kids’ run for ages 7-14 as well as a free 100-yard dash for kids ages 6 and younger. For more information, visit gcrunner.org. • Another option is the Gobble Gobble Four Miler. This event, which starts and ends in Venetian Village, also provides options for families. Children ages 6 and younger can compete in the Lil Gobbler’s Dash for a $2 entry fee, and all other ages can enjoy a 1 Mile Fun Run/Walk for $13 (price includes a t-shirt). For more information, visit gobblegobblefourmiler.com. FAITH-BASED SERVICES AND DONATIONS Many area churches plan to hold special services during the week of Thanksgiving. Here are a couple options for area families:

Thanksgiving Family Fun

We asked families in Southwest Florida what Thanksgiving traditions they enjoy year after year to mark a season of gratitude.

Here are some of the ways these families celebrate: 18

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“We do a bonfire and hayride every year on Thanksgiving on my sister’s property. With hot apple cider, of course. Everyone looks forward to it! ” –Ashley, Naples mom of two. “My family has a Thanksgiving drink we always make: cranberry juice with orange sherbet scoops. It sounds strange, but it’s really good!” –Lauren, Naples mom of one. NEAPOLITANfamily • November 2015

• Center Point Community Church has a Thanksgiving worship service on Saturday, November 22 at 6pm. • Covenant Church of Naples has a Thanksgiving service on Wednesday, November 25 at 6:30pm. Some churches even offer large group meals in honor of the holiday during Thanksgiving week. Additionally, most churches accept food donations throughout the holiday season. These types of activities can be a good way to instruct children on the importance of gratitude and giving to those in need. Contact a church, temple, or parish for more information on ways to participate. Fall Festival. Covenant Church of Naples provides a free fall-themed festival on November 13 from 5:30 PM to 8:30 PM. There will be crafts, hayrides, inflatables, a climbing wall, and family entertainment. Dinner will be available. This night of fun would be a fabulous kick-off to the Thanksgiving holiday festivities. THANKSGIVING ACTIVITIES IN THE HOME Cultivating a spirit of thanksgiving within your home during the month of November is a great way to set the stage for the Christmas season. Helping your children develop an “attitude of gratitude” is a worthy goal to pursue during in honor of the Thanksgiving holiday. Here are a few ideas for fun traditions in the home. Choose one or more of these activities to try with your family. Thanksgiving Décor. Make putting away Halloween decorations and taking out Thanksgiving decorations a special event in your home. A harvest atmosphere in the home can serve as a reminder to be thankful for the daily blessing of food. And this distinction in decorations, even if just for a few weeks, emphasizes the distinct season of gratitude for life’s many blessings. Family Affirmation Night. Challenge your family to intentionally encourage one another. At some point during the Thanksgiving season, plan to have a family affirmation night. Have each member of the family write down a word or phrase on a note card that describes and affirms every other person in your home. As you sit down together, take turns reading the note cards out loud. (For example, when it is Mom’s turn, have each family member read his or her note card that affirms Mom.) Thankful Dinner. Have each family member nominate the food for which he or she is most thankful. Throw a Thankful Dinner one night before Thanksgiving that features each one of these foods. Even if the Thankful Dinner isn’t necessarily the healthiest meal ever prepared in your home, your children will certainly relish the tradition. The “Thankful For” Board. During the month of November, have every person who enters your home, including you and your children, write what he or she is thankful for on a white board or chalkboard. At the end of the month, take a photo of the board and write the date on the back. Place each year’s photo in a small album. Thanksgiving Meal Tablecloth. Purchase a canvas drop cloth from an area hardware store to use as your Thanksgiving tablecloth each year. Have each person who eats Thanksgiving dinner at your house write what something specific he or she is thankful for on that tablecloth in permanent marker, along with his or her name and the date. (Fine-tipped markers in a variety of colors allow for readability and a fun look!) Use the same table cloth year after year, and enjoy looking back at the record of blessings!

“On Thanksgiving morning, each member of the family writes on a small piece of parchment paper what they are thankful for from over the past year. (The ‘littles’ tell an adult, and we write it for them.) Each message is kept secret, and we roll them up. Later on, when I am making the homemade rolls, I put one of the parchment notes into each roll. Throughout the meal, we each open our roll and read the messages aloud. We try to guess who wrote it. Some are funny – some are sentimental. I love the tradition. –Katie, Naples mom of three. “We make fresh butter every Thanksgiving using heavy whipping cream. We put the cream in a leak-proof plastic container (a peanut butter jar works best), and everyone gets a turn to shake it. While shaking, each person has to say what they have been thankful for this year. I usually have to follow up with an electric mixer. The kids love it!” –Julie, Naples mom of two. NEAPOLITANfamily • November 2015

“We do a thankful tree throughout the month of November. I put branches in a vase, and we cut out leaves from construction paper. Everyone writes things down on the leaves they are thankful for and then we attach them to the branches. It becomes our Thanksgiving dinner centerpiece.” –Kristen, Naples mom of three.

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FOOD AND FAMILY

AN APPLE A DAY Celebrating Our Favorite Fruit

hile apples are available yearround they at their best in the autumn when newly harvested. November is the perfect month to learn about and then enjoy crisp, juicy apples. APPLE HISTORY The apple tree, which originally came from Eastern Europe and southwestern Asia, has spread to most regions of the world. Over the centuries more than 7,000 varieties have been developed. Apples have long been associated with the biblical story of Adam and Eve. The apple’s most recent appearance in history occurred in the 1800s in the U.S., when Johnny Appleseed—a real man named John Chapman—walked barefoot across the country planting apple trees that provided food and a livelihood for generations. APPLE NUTRITION Apples belong to the Rose family of plants. Other foods in the Rose family include apricots, plums, cherries, peaches, pears, raspberries, and almonds. Several anticancer studies show daily intake of apples can provide anti-cancer benefits. So there may be some truth to that old phrase, “An

apple a day keeps the doctor away!” One medium apple has just 95 calories and 17% of your daily intake of dietary fiber. SELECT AND STORE APPLES • Look for firm fruits with bright coloring. Red and Golden Delicious are among the sweetest apples. Braeburn and Fuji apples are slightly tart, and Gravenstein, Pippin, and Granny Smith apples are the most tart, but retain their texture best during cooking. • Whole apples are a better nutritional choice than apple juice. The whole apple is rich in dietary fiber. Also, the process of juicing reduces the nutrient concentrations in the apple. • Apples can be stoired for a relatively long period of time (2-3 months) at low refridgerator temperatures. • One bad apple DOES spoil the bunch. An apple that has been bruised or damaged will start to release ethylene gas that can pose

QUICK RECIPES

(from foodnetwork.com) • Dried Apples: Core 1 small apple; slice into 1/8-inchthick rounds. Arrange on an oiled baking sheet and bake at 200 degrees F until dry but still soft, 2 to 3 hours. • Applesauce: Quarter 4 pounds apples. Simmer with 1 cup water, 3 tablespoons sugar and a pinch of salt,

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a risk to other apples that have not been damaged decreasing their shelf life in the rpocess. Remove any damaged apples from groups of apples stored in bulk. • All-purpose apples, good for eating raw as well as for cooking, include the following: Baldwin, Braeburn, Cortland, Criterion, Fuji, Gala, Golden Delicious, Granny Smith, Gravenstein, Jonagold, Jonathan, Lady apple, Macoun, McIntosh, Newtown Pippin (also known simply as Pippin), Northern Spy, Pink Lady, Rhode Island Greening, Stayman Winesap, Winesap and York Imperial. • For whole baked apples, the apple of choice is Rome Beauty. Other good bakers are Braeburn, Gala, Gravenstein and York Imperial.

partially covered, until soft, 25 to 30 minutes. Pass through a food mill. Whisk in 2 tablespoons butter. • Apple Butter: Cook 1/2 cup sugar in a large skillet until deep amber. Add 4 cups Applesauce (No. 7) and 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon; cook, stirring occasionally, until reduced by half, about 30 minutes.

• Mulled Cider: Bring 6 cups apple cider to a simmer with 1 cinnamon stick, 4 allspice berries, 1 star anise pod and 3 strips lemon zest. To serve, add diced apples. • Waldorf Salad: Toss 1/2 cup sliced grapes, 2 each chopped apples and celery stalks, 1/4 cup each mayonnaise, sour cream, walnuts and parsley, and lemon juice, salt and pepper to taste.

NEAPOLITANfamily • November 2015

CITY CONNECTION PARKS DEPT. by Laura Tichy-Smith

Get your family outdoors in November Get out in the cooler fall weather to enjoy these family events sponsored by the City of Naples Community Services Department and local organizations. Free Saturday Nature Talk Series

Free Concerts at the Bandshell

Saturday afternoons at the Naples Preserve….What better way to spend an autumn day? Bring your children and learn together how nature can flourishes in the city — with the proper care. The Naples Preserve continues its tradition of its free nature talk series but now on Saturdays when it is easier for you to attend. The presentations will inform and entertain both adults and children. Free activities for both kids and adults include interactive boardwalk tours, nature talks, games and crafts, and special treats. Each Saturday features a new theme to learn about our local environment. From 1-3 p.m. on Saturdays Nov. 7, 14, 21 and 28. It’s free, but please pre-register by emailing Preserve@naplesgov. com or calling 239-261-4290. (Located at 1690 Tamiami Trail N., corner of US 41 & Fleischmann Blvd.)

Bring a blanket for the whole family and enjoy the cooler weather at free jazz concerts in Cambier Park in November.

Whirl-n-Twirl 2015 Hula Hoop-a-thon Enjoy the whoopla as amateur and professional teams compete to keep their hula-hoops moving during this fundraiser for the Naples Alliance for Children. Face painting, balloons, food vendors and hula-hoop vendors. Cambier Park on Saturday, Nov. 21 from 9 a.m. — noon. For more information, call 649-5260. (755 Eighth Avenue South, Naples)

Concert schedule: Naples Jazz Society on Nov. 1; U.S. Army Field Band on Nov. 3; Naples Concert Band on November 8; Naples Philharmonic Orchestra on November 12; Gulfcoast Big Band on November 15; Music Makers on November 22. For more information, call 213-3058. (755 Eighth Avenue South, Naples) School’s Out Fun Day for School Kids Need childcare when school is closed but you have to work? Both Fleischmann and River Parks have you covered. They have planned fun activities for your child’s day off from school, including crafts, games and sports. Send lunch and snacks with your child. Fun Day runs from 7:30 a.m. -- 5:30 p.m. You must register no later than no later than two weeks prior to the event – space is limited. School’s Out Fun Days are November 23, 24, and 25. Parents should send lunch and snacks with your child. $25 per child. To register, call Fleischmann Park 213-3020 or River Park 213-3037. Get in the Holiday Mood with Free Celebrations of Lights Do your kids miss the snow falling around the Christmas tree? Then take them to the Celebration of Lights, Third Street South’s official launch of the holiday season running nightly Tuesday, Nov. 24 through Saturday, Nov. 28 from 6 -- 9 p.m. Live music and bells resound from every courtyard and plaza as Santa arrives. For more information, call 649-6707. (Third Street S. and Broad Avenue, Naples)

St. Elizabeth Seton Catholic School Enriching minds and empowering souls for over 30 years Consistently exceeding national education standards Fully certified teachers who teach to the student, not to a test Full classroom curriculum for all grades iPads for 5th – 8th graders; state of the art technology Specialized instructors for Band/Chorus, Art, Spanish, Health & PE Enrichment and resource programs Full athletic programs offering varsity and junior varsity teams

2730 53rd Terrace SW, Naples, FL • 239-455-2262 • saintelizabethseton.com NEAPOLITANfamily • November 2015

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YOUR COMMUNITY NEWS & EVENTS

Conservancy Of SWFL 2015 Winter Camps

Kids Helping Kids Festival Nov. 14

he third annual Kids Helping Kids Festival will take place Nov. 14 from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. at Alico Family Golf, 16300 Lee Road, and will include unlimited activities at Alico Family Golf as well as entertainment, a rock wall, Bubble Soccer, bounce houses, live music, games, live animals, and food vendors. The cost is $10 for unlimited activities; free for kids under 5. The mission of the Kids Helping Kids Festival is to empower and inspire young people across Southwest Florida. For more information visit: www.KidsHelpingKidsSWFL.org. For more information on the festival, contact Kathy Bongiorno at Alliance Financial Group at (239) 561-2900 or info@ kidshelpingkidsswfl.org.

CMON’s Backyard Bash

et ready to rock on with C’MON’s 2nd Annual Backyard Bash: Battle of the Bands at the Golisano Children’s Museum of Naples. The event is scheduled for Friday, November 13th from 7:00 to 11:30 p.m. The event will be highlighted by performances by bands including The Chasing Dallas Band, The Good Bad Kids, Essence & DJ Ceron. This event is open to the public. For additional information, check www.cmon. org, call 239-514-0084 or email Marketing@cmon.org.

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oung environmental enthusiasts can sign up for fall and winter 2015 camps at the Conservancy of Southwest Florida. The organization is introducing its new “Cool Coastlines” fall camp, to take place Nov. 23-24 when Collier County public schools are out for the Thanksgiving holiday. The long-time favorite, “Wondrous Wildlife” annual winter camp, is scheduled for Dec. 29-30. The two-day camps are designed for secondthrough fifth-grade children, and will be held from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Each day will offer a different field trip adventure into Southwest Florida ecosystems. Pricing for the camps are $60 per day for Conservancy members and $80 per day for non-members. The special “Cool Coastlines” fall camp camp will feature field trips to wet and wild places, where children will discover unique creatures that live in these salty habitats. The “Wondrous Wildlife” winter campers will take field trips to different ecosystems, and discover how plants and animals keep warm during the winter. Space is limited for the upcoming camps and is anticipated to fill quickly. Registration can be completed online at www.Conservancy.org/Camps. For more information about the fall or winter camps, call Cheryl Latif 239-262-0304, extension 266.

Registration Open For CCPS Walk-Run

ollier County Public Schools (CCPS) invites everyone to lace up their shoes for the CCPS 5K Walk-Run. The race will take place on Saturday, December 5th, starting at 8:00 a.m., at the Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Administrative Center Campus (5775 Osceola Trail, Naples). The event will feature a 5K timed race, a 5K fun run, and a 1-mile walk. All race proceeds will benefit health and wellness initiatives at our 50 schools. In addition to the race, there will also be a health fair for families and Collier County’s largest yoga class to be held after the race on the football field of Barron Collier High School. Registration is available at www.collierschools.com/ccps5k. Current prices are $10 for students (18 & under), $15 for CCPS staff, $20 for individuals, and $40 for families (up to 5 members). All race participants will receive a short-sleeve race shirt. Awards will be given to the top three runners in multiple age groups. More information can be found at www.collierschools.com/ccps5k. You may also contact Lisa Morse, Director of Community Engagement and District Initiatives, at (239) 377-0219 or morsel1@collierschools.com.

239-260-2100 | NEAPOLITANfamily • November 2015

YOUR COMMUNITY NEWS & EVENTS

Lovers Key State Park Yard Sale!

elebrate “America Recycles Day” of November 14 from 8:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at Lovers Key State Park for its first annual Community Yard Sale.The yard sale will be held in the event field located adjacent to the Lovers Key Boat Ramp. Bring all of your great items that have been sitting and waiting to be recycled, repurposed, or reused. Goodwill of Southwest Florida will be accepting donations throughout the event (including unsold items you wish to donate after the sale). Spaces will be available for $10. Setup will begin at 6:00 a.m. on the day of the event. To register, visit www.friendsofloverskey.org to download a registration form or pick one up at the park’s Ranger Station. Deadline to register will be Wednesday, November 11th unless spaces are filled before then. For additional information contact Katie Moses at (239) 463-4588, email Catherine.Moses@dep.state.fl.us or visit www. floridastateparks.org/loverskey.

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Great Outdoor Adventure Day

overs Key State Park will host the Annual Great Outdoor Adventure Day on Saturday, December 5th, 2015, located at the Kayak Launch/ Picnic Area of the park. Food, touch tanks, children’s activities, as well as Ranger-led programs will highlight this day geared towards encouraging participants to recreate responsibly while enjoying the park’s unique habitats and wide variety of wildlife. Rangers and volunteers will offer opportunities to see the park through programs such as guided kayak tours, walking nature tours, bike tours, geo-caching, fishing clinics, and more! Exhibitors will include local environmental organizations, as well as outdoor equipment and healthy lifestyle vendors. This community-based event is free with regular park entrance of $8 per vehicle of up to eight people, $4 for a single occupant and $2 per pedestrian or bicyclist. Guided Kayak tours will be $10/per person, kayak rental included. For additional information please contact the Ranger Station (239) 463-4588 or visit www.floridastateparks.org/loverskey

Candy Buy Back at Twinkle Twinkle Little Store

winkle Twinkle Little Store is offering a candy buy back program for the month of November. Bring in new, individually, factory wrapped candy, and get $5 of in store credit for each pound of candy. In store credit can be used towards anything in the store. Bring candy in anytime during store hours, no appointment necessary. Twinkle Twinkle Little Store is located at 4172 Tamiami Trail North, Naples. Store hours are Monday - Saturday from 9am-6pm and Sunday from 10am-4pm. For more information call (239) 262-5904 or check www.TwinkleTwinkleLittleStoreOfNaples.com. NEAPOLITANfamily • November 2015

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sunday

monday

6:30 PM. I Wish I were a Pirate at Headquarters Library. Create your own pirate gear and walk the plank. Open to ages 5-7 years. Registration required. Registration begins Monday, November 2. Located at 2385 Orange Blossom Drive, Naples. Call 239-593-0870 or check http:// public.collier-lib.org for additional information.

1:00 PM. Bark for Life at Mercato. A fun, petfriendly afternoon in support of the American Cancer Society on the Mercato lawn. Contests and prizes for “Best Costume, “Most Amazing Tricks,” etc. Dog products, daycare and spas, veterinarians, gifts and fun for all. Located at 9128 Strada Place, Naples. Call 239-594-9400 or check www.mercatoshops. com for information.

10:00 AM. Holocaust Era Boxcar Display at South County Regional Library. The Holocaust Museum of Southwest Florida’s Holocaust Era Boxcar is an invaluable education tool utilized to teach the history and lessons of the Holocaust. On display during library hours November 9-24. 211000 Three Oaks Pkwy, Estero. Call 239-479-4636 for additional information.

3:00 PM. FGCU Wind Orchestra. Students from Florida Gulf Coast University’s Bower School of Music perform on Hayes Hall stage. Held at Artis-Naples, 5833 Pelican Bay Boulevard, Naples. Call 239-597-1111 or check http:// artisnaples.org for additional information.

NEAPOLITANfamily • November 2015

9:00 AM. The Essentials of a Digital Camera with Sonny Saunders. This three-hour class will cover the essentials of your digital camera. No previous camera or photography experience is necessary. See more at: www. naplesgarden.org/calendar/theessentials-of-a-digital-camerawith-sonny-saunders. Held at Naples Botanical Gardens, 4820 Bayshore Drive, Naples.

10:30 AM. Halloween Costume Cruise. Come aboard the M/V Double Sunshine for a spirited Halloween Costume Cruise. Watch for dolphins and look for wildlife. Children in costume will receive a free bag of candy. Admission is $17.50 per child. Departs from Tin City, Naples. Call 239-262-4200 or check www.tin-city.com for additional information.

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10:00 AM. Thanksgiving Creations at the Bonita Springs Library. Drop in and make a special Thanksgiving creation. Located at 26876 Pine Avenue, Bonita Springs. Call 239-992-0101 for additional information.

5:45 PM. Outdoor Movie at Mercato: The Wizard of Oz. Free movie on the lawn across from Silverspot Cinema. Please no coolers or outside food. Lawn chairs, blankets and well-behaved pets welcome. Located at 9128 Strada Place, Naples. Call 239-594-9400 or check www.mercatoshops.com for additional information.

5:30 PM. Cooking Up a Feast at Marco Island Library. Bring the whole family and we will measure up some fun making a Thanksgiving treat plus we will make a decoration for your Thanksgiving celebration. Registration required. Located at 210 S. Heathwood Drive, Marco Island. Call 239-394-3272 or check http://public.collier-lib.org for information.

6:30 PM. Evening on Fifth. Evening on 5th will feature an array of live musical performances throughout the sidewalk areas of 5th Avenue South. Call 239-692-8436 or check www.fifthavenuesouth. com for additional information.

6:00 PM. Fall Festival at St Elizabeth Seton Catholic Church. Carnival rides, games and food booths at this year’s St. Elizabeth Seton Festival. Festival held on November 11th and 12th 6:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.; November 13th 6:00 p.m. – 11 p.m.; November 14th 1:00 p.m. – 11 p.m. ; November 9th 2:00 p.m. – 11:00 p.m. Located at 1392 Frank Whiteman Blvd, Naples.

6:00 PM. Naples International Film Festival Opening Night. Opening night film and party kicks off the Naples International Film Festival weekend at Artis-Naples. Films will be shown days and evenings at Silverspot Cinemas. Go to www.naplesfilmfest.com for event information.

thursday

6:30 PM. Super Heroes Night on the YMCA Rooftop. Enjoy the movie “The Incredibles,” super hero relay races, costume contest and crafts. Sponsored by Neapolitan Family Magazine and Impact Martial Arts. Located at 5450 YMCA Road, Naples. Call 239-597-3148 for additional information.

5:30 PM. Fall Festival. Covenant Church of Naples will host a family-friendly event featuring a climbing wall, inflatables hay ride, crafts and carnival games. The WAYFM road show will provide music. Located at 6926 Trail Blvd., Naples. Call 239-5973464 for information.

5:30 PM. Parents Night Out at My Gym. Fun and pizza provided. Located at13020 Livingston Road, Naples. Call 239-431-6499 for additional information.

friday

9:00 AM. Whirl-n-Twirl Hula Hoop-a-Thon at Cambier Park. Amateur and professional teams compete to keep their hula-hoops moving during this fund-raiser. Face painting, balloons, food vendors and hula-hoop vendors. Cambier Park on Saturday, Nov. 21 from 9 a.m. — noon. For more information, call 649-5260. (755 Eighth Avenue South, Naples)

9:00 AM. Blue Zones Project Community Day at North Collier Regional Park. You’ll learn how implementing Blue Zones® principles can lead to a longer, better life. Models, clinics, classes and live performances. Check https:// southwestflorida.bluezonesproject.com 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.

saturday

Best Bets

10:00 AM. Free Kids Crafts at Miromar Outlets. Kids from toddlers to twelve are invited to participate in fun activities. Located at 10801 Corkscrew Rd, Estero. Call 239-9483766 or check www.miromaroutlets.com for additional information. Held weekly on Wednesday.

wednesday

7:00 PM. US Army Field Band at Cambier Park. This internationallyacclaimed organization travels thousands of miles each year presenting a variety of music to enthusiastic audiences throughout the nation and abroad. See more information at: http:// www.fifthavenuesouth.com/ the-u-s-army-field-band.

tuesday

November

7:30 AM. Gobble Gobble Four Miler to Benefit St Matthew’s House. Held at the Village on Venetian Bay. Start your Thanksgiving off on the right foot at the annual four mile walk/run. Dress up in your best Thanksgiving themed gear for a special prize and bring the little ones for the Lil’ Gobbler Dash. Visit gobblegobblefourmiler. com to register.

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9:00 AM. My Gym Camp Day. Extended day until 2pm is available. Located at13020 Livingston Road, Naples. Call 239-431-6499 for additional information. Also held on November 27.

20 5:00 PM. Grand Illuminations Tree Lighting at Village on Venetian Bay. Enjoy a snow show, holiday carolers, a magician, face painting, complimentary photos with Santa, stories with Mrs. Claus and much more. Tree lighting at 7 p.m. Located at 4200 Gulf Shore Blvd, Naples. Check http://venetianvillage.com for additional information.

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6:00 PM. Third Street South Festival of Lights. Third Street South’s official launch of the holiday season runs nightly Tuesday, Nov. 24 through Saturday, Nov. 28 from 6 to 9 p.m. Live music and bells resound from every courtyard and plaza as Santa arrives. For more information, call 239-649-6707. (Third Street S. and Broad Avenue, Naples).

6:00 PM. Christmas on Third Street South. Annual Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony and entertainment up and down Third Street South and the avenues. Call 239-434-6533 for information.

7:00 AM. Naples Fall classic Half Marathon and 5K. To register go to www.napleshalf.com. Held at Sugden Regional Park. 4284 Avalon Dr. Call 239-252-4000 for additional information.

NEAPOLITANfamily • November 2015

neafamily.com

YOUR COMMUNITY November EVENTS

1 SUNDAY

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.

7:00 AM. Fairgrounds Flea Market and Farmers Market. For space or additional info call: 239- 455-1444. Located at Collier County fairgrounds, 751 39th Avenue NE, Naples. Held weekly on Sunday. 7:30 AM. Hannah Ahlquist Relentless Throwdown 5k/1 Mile Fun Run and Fitness Challenge. Held at North Collier Regional Park, 15000 Livingston Road, Naples. For more information, visit www.facebook.com/events/396628510531485/ Purchase tickets at http://hartrun.eventbrite.com/ 8:00 AM. Koreshan Farmer’s Market. Come and get your fresh produce, seafood, baked goods and other food items while walking the paths of the historic settlement. Located at 3800 Corkscrew Road, Estero. Check www.floridastateparks.org for additional information. Held weekly on Sunday. 10:30 AM. Halloween Costume Cruise. Come aboard the M/V Double Sunshine for a spirited Halloween Costume Cruise. Watch for dolphins and look for wildlife. Children in costume will receive a free bag of candy. Admission is $17.50 per child. Departs from Tin City, Naples. Call 239-262-4200 or check www.tin-city.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. 2:00 PM. The Bonita Springs Concert Band “Our American Heroes” Free Concert. The Bonita Springs Concert Band, under the direction of Gary E. Smith, will open the 2015-2016 concert season on Sunday, November 1, at 2:00 P.M. in Riverside Park on Old 41 in Bonita Springs. This free concert lasts two hours and is a special way to recognize and thank those who serve. Bring a chair or a blanket and enjoy the show. For more information go to www.bonitaspringsconcertband.com.

2 MONDAY 9:00 AM. The Essentials of a Digital Camera with Sonny Saunders. This three-hour class will cover the essentials of your digital camera. No previous camera or photography experience is necessary. See more at: www.naplesgarden.org/ calendar/the-essentials-of-a-digital-camera-withsonny-saunders. Held at Naples Botanical Gardens, 4820 Bayshore Drive, Naples. 5:00 PM. El Dia de los Muertos at Immokalee Library. Learn about the traditional Mexican festival honoring the memories of departed relatives and friends. Decorate sugar skulls and spend time

Fun Games ~ Indoor Sports ~ Obstacle Courses ~ Fitness Workouts Arts & Crafts ~ Legos & Building Blocks ~ Reading Time ~ Ages 4+ **No previous martial arts experience necessary to enjoy the FUN**

November 23rd to 25th and 27th December 21st to 23rd and 28th to 30th

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NEAPOLITANfamily • November 2015

reminiscing. Stories and crafts for the entire family. A Special Remembrance Ceremony sponsored by Avow Hospice will culminate the event. All ages. Registration required. Located at 417 North First Street, Immokalee. Call 239-657-2882 or check http://public.collier-lib.org for additional information.

3 TUESDAY 8:00 AM. Photographing Flowers in the Garden. You will learn how to take beautiful flower images that can truly be called art. Bring your camera and tripod. Held at Naples Botanical Gardens, 4820 Bayshore Drive, Naples. Call 239-643-7275 or check www.naplesgarden.org for additional information. 10:00 AM. Family Storytime at South County Regional Library. Five simple practices get kids ready to read: Talking, Singing, Reading, Writing and Playing. Your whole family is invited to this enjoyable, all-ages storytime that encourages the development of pre-reading skills through songs, rhymes, finger plays and stories. Registration is required. Located at 21100 Three Oaks Pkwy, Estero. Call 239-479-4636 for additional information. Held weekly on Tuesday. 10:00 AM. Family Yoga in The Garden. Enjoy yoga in the Garden with your little one aged 2-5. With an emphasis on interactive and partner poses for kids and adults to do together, you’ll do age-appropriate yoga poses, breathing, movement games, and relaxation. No yoga experience required. Garden admission plus $10 for adults, Garden admission alone for children. Bring your own mats or towels. Held at Naples Botanical Gardens, 4820 Bayshore Drive, Naples. Call 239-643-7275 or check www.naplesgarden.org for additional information. Held weekly on Tuesday. 10:00 AM. Moms and Tots Storytime with Miss Jessica and Miss Mary Ellen. A toddler favorite, the girls read, sing, dance and color, creating a fun atmosphere of learning and lots of laughter. Come and ask about the little green frog song. All ages are welcome. Held at Barnes & Noble, 5377 Tamiami Trail North, Naples. Call 239-597-2040 for information. Held weekly on Tuesday. 4:00 PM. Beaded Bracelets for Teens at South Country Regional Library. Celebrate Native American History Month with your own beaded creation. Miss Jodie will share her love of Florida Seminole dolls and patchwork clothing. All materials will be supplied. Held at South County Regional Library, 21100 Three Oaks Pkwy, Estero. Call 239-479-4636 for additional information. Held weekly on Tuesday. 7:00 PM. US Army Field Band at Cambier Park. This internationallyacclaimed organization travels thousands of miles each year presenting a variety of music to enthusiastic audiences throughout the nation and abroad. See more information at: http://www.fifthavenuesouth.com/the-u-s-army-field-band.

4 WEDNESDAY 10:00 AM. Free Kids Crafts at Miromar Outlets. Kids from toddlers to twelve are invited to participate in fun activities. Located at 10801 Corkscrew Rd, Estero. Call 239-948-3766 or check www.miromaroutlets.com for additional information. Held weekly on Wednesday. 10:00 AM. Preschool Storytime at South County Regional Library. Children attend this program independently while the caregiver waits nearby. Children who start kindergarten with pre-reading skills have an advantage. Your preschooler will continue to build relationships with other kids, books, and the library in a storytime designed specifically for them. Registration is required. Located at 21100 Three Oaks Pkwy, Estero. Call 239-479-4636 for additional information. Held weekly on Wednesday. 10:30 AM. Family Story Time at Bonita Springs Library. This program is for the whole family and lasts about 30 minutes. Located at 26876 Pine Avenue, Bonita Springs. Call 239-992-0101 for information. Held weekly on Wednesday.

5 THURSDAY Call for time. Fancy Nancy the Musical. Put on your “fancy” shoes, grab your sparkly purse and bring your whole family to selected matinees running October 22 through November 20, 2015 at Broadway Palm Dinner Theatre.

NEAPOLITANfamily • November 2015

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at 210 S. Heathwood Drive, Marco Island. Call 239-394-3272 or check http://public.collier-lib. org for additional information. 4:00 PM. XBox Thursdays at Naples Regional Library. Play games on the XBOX 360 Use our games or bring your own. Grades 6 and up. Registration is not required. Located at 650 Central Avenue, Naples. Call 239-262-6853 or check http:// public.collier-lib.org for additional information. 6:00 PM. Music Night Series Featuring Thomas Wynn and the Believers at Mercato. Free concert on the lawn across from Silverspot Cinema, playing a combination of blistering rock and southern soul. Please no coolers or outside food. Lawn chairs, blankets and well-behaved pets welcome. Located at 9128 Strada Place, Naples. Call 239-594-9400 or check www.mercatoshops.com for information. 6:00 PM. Naples International Film Festival Opening Night. Opening night film and party kicks off the Naples International Film Festival weekend at Artis-Naples. Films will be shown days and evenings at Silverspot Cinemas. Go to www. naplesfilmfest.com for event information.

Ticket prices for the buffet and the show are only $19 for all ages. Group rates are available for parties of 20 or more. Tickets are now on sale and can be reserved by calling 239- 278-4422, or by visiting www.BroadwayPalm.com. Held on various dates during November. 9:30 AM. Walking Meditation in the Naples Botanical Garden. Walking meditation is an insightful practice of awareness, concentration, and self-inquiry. We welcome the beginner to the more advanced meditator who is interested in learning ways to breathe, relax, feel, watch and allow the body, breath, and brain to be in sync with the flow of the ever changing seasons in the Botanical Garden. To register for this or any other Lifelong Learning class, workshop or lecture, please call 239-643-7275 or email agrace@naplesgarden.org. 10:00 AM. Tai Chi in the Garden. Instructor Karen McNeil hosts this energy-flow exercise in the South Grove of the Garden. Held at Naples Botanical Gardens, 4820 Bayshore Drive, Naples. Call 239-643-7275 or check www.naplesgarden.org for additional information. Held weekly on Thursday. 10:30 AM. Whole Kids Club at Whole Foods. Kids can learn to make healthy treats and fun crafts. Pre-register at customer service. Located at 9101 Strada Place, Naples. Call 239-552-5100 for information. 4:00 PM. Minute to Win It at Marco Island Library. Compete against your friends to complete different challenges in one minute or less. Will you be able to win it in a minute? Open to a ages 9-12 years. Registration required. Located

6 FRIDAY Call for time. Mini Maker Faire at Barnes and Noble. Check website for times of sessions on November 6-7. Join us in the Make & Collaborate space for these highly collaborative and interactive activities for a variety of ages. Featured materials included in the sessions: Ages 5+ - LEGO BIONICLE, Snap Circuits & ThinkFun Wheels

& Gadgets, Ages 8+ - littleBits Electronic Building Blocks & Cool Paper Machines; Adults (13+) - LEGO Architecture Studio and Extraordinaires Design Studio Pro. Go to www.stores.barnesandnoble.com for information. Located at 5377 Tamiami Trail North, Naples. 10:00 AM. Free Beachcombing and Shelling Talk. What do wrack lines, jellies, blue buttons, beach hoppers, ghosts, sea pork, and beans have in common? Meet at the Learning Center at Barefoot Beach Preserve. There is an entrance fee into the park for those who do not have a current Collier County park permit. Located at 505 Barefoot Beach Blvd., Bonita Springs. Call 239-252-4000 for additional information. Held weekly on Friday. 10:00 AM. Baby-Parent Rhyme Time at South Country Regional Library. Registration required. Located at 21100 Three Oaks Pkwy, Estero. Call 239-479-4636 for information. Held weekly on Friday. 10:00 AM. Nature Walk on Wheels for Special Needs. Created for visitors with special needs. This is an escorted golf cart tour through the world of Barefoot Beach Preserve. Reservations required. Free event. Call 239- 252-4000 or check www. friendsofbarefootbeach.org for additional information. Held weekly on Friday with reservation. 5:30 PM. Parents Night Out at My Gym. Fun and pizza provided. Located at13020 Livingston Road, Naples. Call 239-431-6499 for additional information. 6:00 PM. Max Hasse Community Park 4th and

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5th Grade Dance. Pizza and soda served. Must purchase tickets in advance. Located at 3390 Golden Gate Pkwy, Naples. Call 239-348-7500 or check http://colliergov.net for additional information. 7:00 PM. Friday Night Concert Series. Highlighting the music of local bands at Miromar Outlets, 1801 Corkscrew Rd., Estero. Call 239-948-3766 or check www.miromaroutlets.com for additional information. Held weekly on Friday.

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7 SATURDAY 7:00 AM. Fairgrounds Flea Market and Farmers Market. For space or additional info call: 239- 455-1444. Held weekly on Saturday and Sunday. 7:30 AM. Third Street South Farmer’s Market. Fresh produce, flowers and food items in the parking lot behind Tommy Bahama’s on Third Street South in Naples. Call 239-434-6533 for additional information. Held weekly on Saturday. 7:30 AM. Old Naples 10K on Third Street South. Enjoy a wonderful 10K race that showcases the beautiful streets of Old Naples. This course is two loops starting on Broad Street. The race is coordinated by Gulf Coast Runners. For more information call 239- 404-7007. 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. JDRF Walk to Cure Diabetes at Bell Tower Shops. Register at www2.JDRF.org. Bell Tower Shops at corner of Daniels Pkwy and US 41 in Fort Myers. 8:00 AM. Immokalee Community Park Yard Sale. Come to sell or shop. Call the park to reserve your spot. Located at 321 North 1st Street, Immokalee. Call 239- 657-4449 for additional information. 8:00 AM. Walk for Life & Fun Fest. Walkers can register online at www. supportprg.org to set up their own personal fund-raising page, or download a printable fund-raising form that can be turned in on the day of the walk. Registration begins at 8:00 AM at the Golden Gate Community Park located at 3300 Santa Barbara Blvd. The walk begins at 10:00 AM followed by food, music and fun activities for the entire family. Fund-raiser for the Pregnancy Resource Center. 8:00 AM. Kids Raising Money for Canines Car Wash. Cornerstone Kids and families are ready to wash cars and raise money for the Humane Society of Naples to help them with the dogs they voluntarily took in from the shelters in South Carolina. You can help by getting your car washed for a minimum donation of $5. Located at 8200 Immokalee RD., Naples. Call 239-354-9160 or check www.cornerstonenaples.org/ for additional information. 8:00 AM. Veterans Community Park Yard Sale. Buy or sell craft items, produce or yard sale items. Reserve spot at park in advance for $10. Located at 1895 Veterans Park Drive, Naples. Call 239-566-2367 or check http:// colliergov.net 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 colliergov. net for additional information. Held weekly on Saturday. 9:30 AM. W.O.N.D.E.R. Kids at Botanical Gardens. Drop in anytime between 9:30 a.m. - 2 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday to the Smith Children’s Garden for fun activities. Located at 4820 Bayshore Drive, Naples. Call 239643-7275 or check www.naplesgarden.org for additional information. Held weekly on Saturday. 9:30 AM. Boys & Girls Club of Collier County’s 12th Annual FORE-theKids Golf Tournament. The tournament will be held on the championship Creek Course. To learn more about the Boys & Girls Club of Collier County, call 239-325-1700 or visit www.bgccc.com. 10:00 AM. Free Kids Fishing. Held at Bass Pro Shops, 10040 Gulf Center

NEAPOLITANfamily • November 2015

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Halloween fun at Collier County Parks! MHCP Trunk or Treat Halloween Event Oct 23 • Fri • 6:30pm-8:30pm VYCP Candy Haunted House Creations Oct 23 • Fri • 6:00pm-7:00pm GGCC Family Halloween Event Oct 24 • Sat • 4:30pm-6:30pm

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Drive, Ft. Myers. Call 239-461-7800 for additional information. 10:00 AM. Art in the Park. The Naples Art Association is proud to host this juried art show at Cambier Park held in conjunction with “First Saturday” an event directed toward children and families. Children of all ages will have the opportunity to experience working in many mediums, expanding their creativity. See more at: www.fifthavenuesouth.com/art-in-the-park-november-7th 10:00 AM. KIDding Around Bell Tower Shops. Join us for a variety of free activities and sponsors that change each month, including bounce house fun. Held at Bell Tower Shops, Daniels Pkwy and US 41, Ft. Myers. Call 239489-1221 or check www.thebelltowershops.com for additional information. 10:30 AM. C.A.L.M. Connecting Amazing Local Moms. A support group and educational series for mothers and babies 1-12 months. Create connection with other moms through educational and emotional support. $20 drop-in, $70/4 classes, or $15/current clients. For more information, call 239- 325-9210 or visit www.MonarchTherapy.com. Held weekly on Saturday. 10:30 AM. Swamp Buggy Races. Experience the world’s muddiest races as swamp buggy vehicles speed around the track known as the Mile O’ Mud. Held at Florida Sports Park, 8250 Collier Blvd., Naples. For more information go to www.thefloridasportspark.com. 11:00 AM. Barnes & Noble Storytime. Storytime and related activity. Located at 5377 Tamiami Trail North, Naples. Call 239-597-2040 or check http://bn.com for additional information. Held weekly on Saturday with a different theme weekly. 11:00 AM. Marco Island Craft Beer Festival. Come out for a day of great craft beer and food pairings at The Esplanade and C.J.’s on the Bay. Located at 800 N. Collier Blvd, Marco Island. For more information call 239-389-4511 or check www.theesplanade.com. 1:00 PM. Aladdin, Jr. Children For The Arts After-School Theater Troupe will perform Disney’s Aladdin, Jr. featuring children ages 6-15. Admission is $5 for children ages 3-17, $10 for adults and children under 3 are free. General admission at the door only. Tickets are not sold in advance. Held at Pine Ridge Middle School, 1515 Pine Ridge Road, Naples. 1:00 PM. Free Saturday Nature Talk Series at the Naples Preserve. Free activities for both kids and adults include interactive boardwalk tours, nature talks, games and crafts, and special treats. Each Saturday features a new theme to learn about our local environment. It’s free, but please pre-register by emailing Preserve@naplesgov.com or calling 239-261-4290. (1690 Tamiami Trail N., corner of US 41 & Fleischmann Blvd.) Held weekly on Saturday. 1:30 PM. Free Family Activity Day. Families will be given a quick guided tour of a fun and educational exhibition and complete an art project. Held at Center for the Arts of Bonita Springs, 26100 Old 41 Road, Bonita Springs. Call 239-495-8989 or check http://artcenterbonita.org for additional information. 2:15 PM. NIFF Film: Song of the Sea. Family friendly film selection at the Naples International Film Festival based on the Irish legend of the Selkies. Also showing Sunday at 2 p.m. For tickets go to www. silverspotcinema.com.

8 SUNDAY Call for time. Naples Cyclery Veteran’s Ride. A sixty mile police escorted bike ride from Fit and Fuel Cafe to Fat Point Brewery in Punta Gorda. Proceeds benefit Collier County Honor Flight. $50 includes ride back to Naples by motor coach. To register go to www.fitnfuel.com. 9:00 AM. Elephant Fest at Naples Zoo. Benefiting the Alzheimer’s Support Network. No elephants will be present. For tickets go to www.alzsupport.org. 3:00 PM. FGCU Wind Orchestra. Students from Florida Gulf Coast University’s Bower School of Music perform on Hayes Hall stage. Held at Artis-Naples, 5833 Pelican Bay Boulevard, Naples. Call 239-597-1111 or check http://artisnaples.org for additional information. 5:00 PM. Town Square Grand Opening. Kidztown Children’s ministry presents the Grand Opening of Town Square. Come join the fun starting at 5:00 PM with a picnic on the playground, 5:45 a ribbon cutting and tour of

NEAPOLITANfamily • November 2015

the redesigned children’s worship room and then at 6:00 PM we will conclude with a special message in the chapel from Christian kids comedian Brandon Rushin. Call 239-596-8600 ext. 350 for details. Held at First Baptist Church, 3000 orange Blossom Drive, Naples.

9 MONDAY 9:30 AM. Music Together at South County Regional Library. A highly interactive musical experience designed for young children and their caregivers, presented by Family Music Time. Please register all children who will be attending. Located at 211000 Three Oaks Pkwy, Estero. Call 239-479-4636 for additional information. 10:00 AM. Holocaust Era Boxcar Display at South County Regional Library. The Holocaust Museum of Southwest Florida’s Holocaust Era Boxcar, a rare artifact, is an invaluable and mobile education tool utilized to promote tolerance by teaching the history and lessons of the Holocaust. On display during library hours November 9-24. Located at 211000 Three Oaks Pkwy, Estero. Call 239-479-4636 for additional information.

11 WEDNESDAY 10:30 AM. Free Cruise for Veterans. Celebrate our Veterans with a fun Pure Florida sightseeing cruise. Veterans cruise free all day with the purchase of a full adult or children’s ticket. Cruises depart at 10:30am, 12:30pm, 2:30pm, Sunset (5:45pm). Go to www.purefl.com for tickets and information. 12:00 PM. USO Veterans Day Show at the Naples Depot Museum. The USO Show at the Naples Depot will be held immediately following the Veterans Memorial Service in Cambier Park which begins at 10 a.m. The USO show will be held from 12 p.m. to 1:00 p.m. A limited number of chairs will be provided, but visitors are encouraged to bring their own. For more information, please call 239- 262-6525. Naples depot Museum is located at 1051 Fifth Ave S., Naples. 6:00 PM. Fall Festival at St. Elizabeth Seton Catholic Church. Kids of all ages will enjoy carnival rides, games and food booths at this year’s St. Elizabeth Seton Festival. Festival held on November 11th and 12th 6:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.; November 13th 6:00 p.m. – 11 p.m.; November 14th 1:00 p.m. – 11 p.m. ; November 9th 2:00 p.m. – 11:00 p.m. Located at 1392 Frank Whiteman Blvd, Naples.

12 THURSDAY 12:00 PM. Are You Really Breathing? Workshop at Naples Botanical Garden. Join Karen McNeil and explore the positive healing energy of breath. When you learn how to breathe, you open up the pathway to limitless possibilities. See more at: https://www.naplesgarden.org/calendar/are-you-really-breathingwith-karen-mcneil. Located at 4820 Bayshore Drive, Naples. 5:30 PM. Wine and Dezine at the von Leibig. This is most fun you’ll ever have with a brush. Friends, fun, wine and leave with your own masterpiece in just three hours. Just relax as each workshop takes you step by step through the wonderful world of painting. For more information go to www.naplesart. org or 239-262-6517. Located at 585 Park Street, Naples. 6:30 PM. Evening on Fifth. Evening on 5th will feature an array of live musical performances throughout the sidewalk areas of 5th Avenue South. Call 239-692-8436 or check www.fifthavenuesouth.com for additional information. 6:30 PM. United Arts Council Celebrate the Arts Gala. Purchase tickets at www.UACCollier.com. Held at La Playa Beach & Golf Resort, 9891 Gulf Shore Drive, Naples. 7:00 PM. Naples Philharmonic at Cambier Park. Free concert at Cambier Park. Located at 755 8th Ave. S., Naples. Bring a blanket or chair for seating. 8:00 PM. FGCU Eaglepalooza at Germain Arena. Featuring hip hop artist Big Sean (http://uknowbigsean.com/splash/) wish special guest Natalie La Rose (http://www.natalielarose.com/). Check www.germainarena.com for ticket information.

NEAPOLITANfamily • November 2015

NAPLES PREMIER YOUTH THEATRE

JOIN US FOR

The Nutcracker Goes Pop! Dec. 2 - 13

Over 100 local students sing and dance their way through this modern song and dance version of the beloved classic. Performances: Wed. & Fri., Dec. 2, 4, 9 & 11 at 5:00 p.m. Sat., Dec 5 & 12 at 2:00 & 5:00 p.m. Sun., Dec. 6 & 13 at 5:00 & 7:30 p.m. Providing exceptional youth theatre for over 20 years

Class schedules at naplesplayers.org. Click on Learn!

Located at The Naples Players, 701 5th Avenue South

MONTESSORI

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

A life-long joy of learning, an education for life INFANT TODDLER CHILDREN’S HOUSE VPK ELEMENTARY ADOLESCENT

Programs for Ages 8-weeks to 15-years

Join us for our next Open House Saturday, December 12, 2015 10:00A.M. to 12:00Noon

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

More information can be found on our website

www.naplesmontessori.org

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

November Picks inLeeCounty

8:00 PM. Night Train 1950’s Rock and Roll Sock Hop. Next stop, a night of dancing to the hits of the 1950’s with local favorites, Vic Tommarchi and the Night Train Band. The dance floor will be open so ‘Bop,’ ‘Twist,’ ‘Bunny Hop’ or ‘Swing’ your way down to the Center for Performing Arts Bonita Springs for the most fun you will have this side of the 1950’s, dancing and listening to the timeless hits of Elvis Presley, Fats Domino, B.B. King, the Platters and more. For tickets and more information go to www.artcenterbonita.org.

13 FRIDAY

Aviation Day 2015

Page Field, off North Airport Road, Fort Myers Saturday, November 7 • 10 a.m. - 3 p.m.

Attractions will include aviation aircraft exhibits, airplane and helicopter rides, children’s activities, character appearances, clowns, face painting, demonstrations by police & fire departments, refreshments & more. Free! www. flylcpa.com

Cape Coral Coconut Festival

Sun Splash Family Waterpark, Cape Coral November 12 - 15

This four-day event includes bands, entertainment, carnival games, rides., food, contests, crafts & more. www.cocofest.com

American Sandsculpting Championship Festival Estero Boulevard, Fort Myers Beach November 20 - 29

Fort Myers Beach behind Wyndham Garden Hotel. Over 1,000 tons of sand will be piled and sculpted! www.sandsculptingfestival.com 239-454-7500

Taste of Bonita

Riverside Park, Downtown Bonita Springs November 22 • 11 a.m. - 5 p.m.

25 area restaurants serving up tasty plates, plus a car show, live music, arts & crafts, and kids play area. www.tasteofbonita.com .

A Wonderful Life

Broadway Palm Dinner Theatre, Fort Myers November 26 - December 26 239-278-4422

Lee County’s Original Family Publication

FOR 24 YEARS!!

www.leefamilynews.net 32

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Call for time. Tom Sawyer Presented By CFABS Youth Players. Showing through November 15. For more information go to www.artcenterbonita.org. Held at Center For the Arts Bonita Springs Moe Auditorium, 10150 Bonita Beach Road SE, Bonita Springs. 5:00 PM. Youth Haven’s 2nd Annual “Uncorked” Wine Pairing Event. The event includes a variety of food and wine pairings, music and raffle and silent auction. $125 admission. Held at Mediterra Beach Cub, 26110 Hickory Blvd, Bonita Springs. Call 239- 774-2904 for additional info. 5:30 PM. Fall Festival. Covenant Church of Naples will host a family-friendly event featuring a climbing wall, inflatables hay ride, crafts and carnival games. The WAY-FM road show will provide music. Located at 6926 Trail Blvd., Naples. Call 239-597-3464 for information. 6:00 PM. Golden Gate Community Center 4th and 5th Grade Dance. Dance the night away with current music and disco lighting. Food and Drinks will be served. $10. Located at 4701 Golden Gate Pkwy, Naples. Call 239252-4180 for additional information. 7:00 PM. Backyard Bash Battle of the Bands at C’MON. Live entertainment, silent auction and great food in a casual atmosphere. For tickets go to www.cmon.org. Held at 15080 Livingston Road, Naples.

14 SATURDAY 7:30 AM. Giant Yard Sale at Fleischmann Park. Pre-register for spaces. $15-30. Located at 1600 Fleischmann Drive, Naples. Call 239-213-3020 for additional information. 8:00 AM. Lovers Key Community Yard Sale. Held in the event field located adjacent to the Lovers Key Boat Ramp. Goodwill of Southwest Florida will be accepting donations throughout the event. Spaces will be available for $10 and will be 10’ x 20’ in size. Setup will begin at 6:00 AM. Registration is required for yard sale spaces, spaces are limited. To register, visit www.friendsofloverskey. org or pick one up at the park’s Ranger Station. Deadline to register will be Wednesday, Nov. 11 unless spaces are filled. For more information contact Katie Moses, 239- 463-4588 or visit www.floridastateparks.org/loverskey. 9:00 AM. Blue Zones Project Community Day at North Collier Regional Park. Discover how you can get involved in transforming Southwest Florida into a place where healthy choices are the easiest to make. You’ll learn how implementing Blue Zones® principles can lead to a longer, better life. Models, clinics, classes and live performances. Check https://southwestflorida.bluezonesproject.com for additional information. 9:00 AM. Free Kids’ Fishing Clinic at the Naples Pier. Bring the kids between age 5-15 down to Naples Pier for a great free fishing clinic. They will learn about angling, and receive a fishing rod from Marine Industries Association of Collier County while supplies last. Check www.naplesgov.com for additional information. 10:00 AM. 3rd Annual Kids Helping Kids Festival. The festival includes live animals, a rock wall, bubble soccer, bounce houses, live music, games and food vendors. The cost is $10 for unlimited activities. Free admission for kids under 5. For more information visit www.KidsHelpingKidsSWFL.org. 10:00 AM. Family Planting Day at Naples Botanical Garden. After helping our staff plant our seasonal vegetable garden, we hope you stick around to meet our newest scarecrows, fall themed crafts, garden games and autumn fun. See more at: https://www.naplesgarden.org/calendar/family-planting-day

NEAPOLITANfamily • November 2015

10:00 AM. Frog and Toad Read Aloud at South County Regional Library. Friends from the Florida Repertory Children’s Theatre read aloud from Arnold Lobel’s classic Frog and Toad stories. Located at 21100 Three Oaks Pkwy, Estero. Call 239-479-4636 for additional information. 10:45 AM. Uncle Gerry Family Concert & Sock-Hop. A musical celebration to benefit The Passion Foundation. Tickets $5 per person. Admission includes free play time at Whiz Kids after the concert. Located at 1050 Pine Ridge Rd., Naples. 11:00 AM. Baconfest. Sample bacon flavored everything, spend time with family and friends and enjoy numerous festivities. This years BaconFest Naples event will be held on the beautiful lawn at the South Terminal of Naples Airport off North Road and Airport Road. For more information call 239-293-0104. 11:00 AM. Science Saturday at Miromar Outlets. Join Mr. Glen and his Science and Engineering team for interactive science projects in MundoMax Playland. Located at 10801 Corkscrew Rd., Estero. Check www.miromaroutlets.com for additional information. 12:00 PM. Back Bay Bash at Fort Myers Beach. Family Music Fest to benefit Florida Helps Foundation. For more information go to www.flhelps.org. 1:30 PM. Pups and Books at Headquarters Regional Library. Stop by to read to a dog or just to pet one. All ages. Registration is not required. Located at 2385 Orange Blossom Drive, Naples. Call 239-593-0870 or check http:// public.collier-lib.org for additional information. 2:00 PM. Young Adult Book Club at South Regional Branch Library. Skype with authors and participate in lively book and movie comparison discussions. Refreshments will be available. Open to ages 11-17 years. Registration required. Located at 8065 Lely Cultural Parkway, Naples. Call 239-252-7542 or check http://public.collier-lib.org for additional information. 4:00 PM. Lego Club at Estates Branch Library. Share ideas, be creative, make new friends and have fun. LEGO® bricks will be provided. Your LEGO® creation will be put on display at the library. Open to ages 5-11 years. Registration is not required. Located at 1266 Golden Gate Blvd. W., Naples. Call 239-455-8088 or check http://public.collier-lib.org for additional information. 5:30 PM. Dogs, Diamonds and Denim Canine Country Hoedown. Catered country BBQ buffet, country music, line dancing, fashion show and silent auction to benefit Brooke’s Legacy Animal Rescue at Etudes de Ballet. 3285 Pine Ridge Road. For ticket info call 239-434-7480 or go to www. brookeslegacyanimalrescue.org. 6:00 PM. The Naples Grape Escape Food, Wine and Craft Beer Festival. Guests will enjoy six blocks of fine food, exquisite wines, outstanding artisan beers, food pairings from local restaurants and sponsors, and live entertainment along Naples’ famous Fifth Avenue South. Proceeds from The Naples Grape Escape Food & Wine Festival will benefit the Rotary Foundation Charities. Tickets will be available at Napleswine.org.

15 SUNDAY 1:00 PM. Bark for Life at Mercato. A fun, pet-friendly afternoon in support of the American Cancer Society on the Mercato lawn. Contests and prizes for “Best Costume, “Most Amazing Tricks,” etc. Dog products, daycare and spas, veterinarians, gifts and fun for all. Located at 9128 Strada Place, Naples. Call 239-594-9400 or check www.mercatoshops.com for additional information.

16 MONDAY 9:00 AM. America Recycles Day BOGO at Rookery Bay. In celebration of America Recycles Day, the Rookery Bay Environmental Learning Center offers “buy one, get one free admission.” Located at 300 Tower Road, Naples. Call 239-417-6310 or check www.rookerybay.org for additional information. 4:30 PM. Crafts of Plenty at East Naples Library. t’s a party of crafts and fun.. Bring your family and friends and enjoy these great crafts. Make some or make them all. Open to ages 2 years and older. Registration is not required. Located at 8787 Tamiami Trail East, Naples. Call 239-775-5592 or check

NEAPOLITANfamily • November 2015

THE CHILDREN’S THEATRE AT

NOW - NOVEMBER 20, 2015 IN THE MAIN THEATRE NOW - NOVEMBER 21, 2015

1380 COLONIAL BOULEVARD, FORT MYERS

239.278.4422 • www.BroadwayPalm.com

Our Educated and Dedicated Staff Encourages Creative, Expressive, Hands on Learning Your child will receive quality interaction with our low student-teacher ratios and will enjoy our spacious, shaded, fun-filled play area.

Serving children Infant - age 5 VPK Certified

Full-day, Half-day and partial week schedules available Where your child’s needs are our only priority.

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

http://public.collier-lib.org for additional information. 6:30 PM. I Wish I were a Pirate at Headquarters Library. Create your own pirate gear and walk the plank. Open to ages 5-7 years. Registration required. Registration begins Monday, November 2. Located at 2385 Orange Blossom Drive, Naples. Call 239-593-0870 or check http://public.collier-lib.org for additional information.

17 TUESDAY 3:30 PM. Food Around the World at Golden Gate Library. Trish from 4H is back to introduce foods from around the world. Come prepared to try new and different items from new and different cultures. Open to grades 1 through 5. Registration required. Located at 2432 Lucerne Road, Naples. Call 239-252-4542 or check http://public.collier-lib.org for additional information. 5:45 PM. Outdoor Movie at Mercato: The Wizard of Oz. Free movie on the lawn across from Silverspot Cinema. Please no coolers or outside food. Lawn chairs, blankets and well-behaved pets welcome. Located at 9128 Strada Place, Naples. Call 239-594-9400 or check www.mercatoshops.com for additional information. 6:15 PM. The Paper Clip Project Documentary at South County Regional Library. This inspiring, award-winning documentary shows how middle school students in rural Tennessee attempt to collect 6 million paper clips as a school project on the Holocaust. Located at 21100 Three Oaks Pkwy, Estero. Call 239-479-4636 for additional information.

18 WEDNESDAY 10:00 AM. Thanksgiving Creations at the Bonita Springs Library. Drop in and make a special Thanksgiving creation. Located at 26876 Pine Avenue, Bonita Springs. Call 239-992-0101 for additional information.

19 THURSDAY 5:30 PM. Cooking Up a Feast at Marco Island Library. Bring the whole family and we will measure up some fun making a Thanksgiving treat plus we will make a decoration for your Thanksgiving celebration. All ages. Registration required. Located at 210 S. Heathwood Drive, Marco Island. Call 239-3943272 or check http://public.collier-lib.org for additional information. 5:30 PM. Sip & Sample at the Village on Venetian Bay. Purchase a Sip & Sample passport and enjoy samples of wines and appetizers from the restaurants of Village on Venetian Bay. Proceeds go to Friends of Foster Children Forever of Southwest Florida. Located at 4200 Gulf Shore Blvd, Naples. Check http:// venetianvillage.com for additional information. 6:00 PM. Third Thursday on Third Street South. Live music in the Fleischmann Courtyard. Call 239-434-6533 for additional information.

20 FRIDAY 5:30 PM. Parents Night Out at My Gym. Fun and pizza provided. Located at13020 Livingston Road, Naples. Call 239-431-6499 for additional information. 6:30 PM. Super Heroes Night on the YMCA Rooftop. Enjoy the movie “The Incredibles,” super hero relay races, costume contest and crafts. Sponsored by Neapolitan Family Magazine and Impact Martial Arts. Located at 5450 YMCA Road, Naples. Call 239-597-3148 for additional information.

21 SATURDAY Call for time. Make-a-Wish Day at the Sand Sculpting Championship on Fort Myers Beach. Opening day of nine day Sand Sculptlng Championship. 20% of proceeds from gate admissions will go to Make-A-Wish Foundation Southern Florida. Vendors and kids activity area. Go to fmbsandsculpting. com for information.

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NEAPOLITANfamily • November 2015

8:00 AM. Max Hasse Community Park Yard Sale. Come to sell or shop. Call the park to reserve your spot. Located at 3390 Golden Gate Pkwy, Naples. Call 239-348-7500 or check http://colliergov.net for additional information. 9:00 AM. Rookery Bay Adventure Race. Enjoy a 3K kayak along Henderson Creek and a 4K trail run at the Rookery Bay Environmental Learning Center to benefit the Friends of Rookery Bay. New this year: a 5K Trail Run. All participants will receive a t-shirt, post-race refreshments, Rookery Bay water bottle, and free admission to the Environmental Learning Center and entry for door prizes. Awards will be presented to the top finishers in each category: men, women, relays, tandem-teams, surf-skis. Also new this year: 10-year age group awards. Register at www.rookerybay.org. 9:00 AM. Whirl-n-Twirl Hula Hoop-a-Thon at Cambier Park. Enjoy the whoopla as amateur and professional teams compete to keep their hula-hoops moving during this fund-raiser for the Naples Alliance for Children. Face painting, balloons, food vendors and hula-hoop vendors. Cambier Park on Saturday, Nov. 21 from 9 a.m. — noon. For more information, call 649-5260. (755 Eighth Avenue South, Naples) 10:00 AM. Estero Fine Art Show presented by HotWorks.org. Voted in the top 100 art fairs in the nation, the bi-annual Estero Fine Art Show brings up to 170 artists to sell their original art in paintings, clay, glass, sculpture, jewelry, photography, wood, fiber and more. The event is juried by art professionals with 120+ art education and/or art fair experience. Located at 10800 Corkscrew Road, Estero. 11:00 AM. Community Day at Miromar Outlets. Enjoy a day of family fun. Meet and greet with local businesses in our community. Participate in exciting activities and enter for a chance to win prizes. Located at 10801 Corkscrew Rd, Estero. Call 239-948-3766 or check www.miromaroutlets. com for additional information. 2:00 PM. Holocaust Museum Speaker at South County Regional Library. A speaker from The Holocaust Museum & Education Center of Southwest Florida will bring light to the subject of this dark time in history. Registration is required. Located at 21100 Three Oaks Pkwy, Estero. Call 239-479-4636 for additional information.

Covenant Church of Naples Just good, family -centered fun for free!

Friday, November 13 Covenant Church of Naples Just good, family -centered fun for free!

5:30-8:30 p.m.

Featuring a climbing andinflatables inflatables forfamily fun, family Featuring a climbingwall wall and for fun, entertainment, festivaloffers offerssomething something for whole the whole entertainment,this thisfall fall festival for the family. thehay hay ride,crafts crafts and carnival games. family.Come Comeand and enjoy enjoy the ride, carnival games. Friday, November 13and The WAY-FM willbe beproviding providingmusic music evening. The WAY-FMroad road show show will forfor thethe evening.

5:30-8:30 p.m.

Our Our foodfood area area will offer hotdogs, nachos,nachos, cupcakes Featuring a climbing wall and inflatables for fun, family will hamburgers, offer hamburgers, hotdogs, entertainment, this fall festival offers something for the whole &thedrinks. family. Comecupcakes and enjoy hay ride, and carnival games. &crafts drinks. The WAY-FM road show will be providing music for the evening.

Bring Friends and Family! Our food area will offer hamburgers, hotdogs, nachos, cupcakes & drinks.

Bring Friends and Family!

6926 Trail Blvd. Naples, FL 34108 * 239-597-3464 6926 Trail Blvd. Naples, FL 34108 * 239-597-3464

22 SUNDAY 7:00 AM. Naples Fall classic Half Marathon and 5K. To register go to www.napleshalf.com. Held at Sugden Regional Park. 4284 Avalon Dr. Call 239-252-4000 for additional information.

23 MONDAY 7:30 AM. School’s Out Fun Days. Need childcare when school is closed but you have to work? Both Fleischmann and River Parks have you covered. They have planned fun activities for your child’s day off from school, including crafts, games and sports. Send lunch and snacks with your child. Fun Day runs 7:30 a.m. -- 5:30 p.m. You must register no later than no later than two

German Language Instruction

• German language arts education for native speakers – elementary and middle school level • German language foreign language classes for all ages • Immersion into German customs and cultures

Classes held at Greater Naples YMCA 5450 YMCA Road, Naples, FL 34109

954.288.7599

www.germanschoolfl.com NEAPOLITANfamily • November 2015

neafamily.com

FAMILY GOLF CLINIC December 11, 2015 | 4 p.m. | Tiburón Golf Club Driving Range Join in the fun as Greg Norman and select PGA TOUR professionals host an instructional clinic followed by Peter Johncke, “Trick Shot Master.”

a WCI managed facility

FranklinTempletonShootout.com 36

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NEAPOLITANfamily • November 2015

weeks prior to the event. Runs through November 23, 24, and 25 – send lunch and snacks with your child. $25 per child. To register, call Fleischmann Park 239-213-3020 or River Park 239-213-3037. 9:00 AM. Early Release/No School Days Make and Take Craft at Immokalee Library. Visit our craft table on these days to make something fun. While supplies last. All ages. Registration is not required. Runs through 5 PM. Located at 417 North First Street, Immokalee. Call 239-657-2882 or check http://public.collier-lib.org for information. 5:30 PM. Cooking Up a Feast at South Regional Library. Bring the whole family and we will measure up some fun making a Thanksgiving treat, plus we will make a decoration for your Thanksgiving celebration. Open to all ages. Registration required. Located at 8065 Lely Cultural Parkway, Naples. Call 239-252-7542 or check http://public. collier-lib.org for additional information. 6:00 PM. Christmas on Third Street South. Annual Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony and entertainment up and down Third Street South and the avenues. Call 239-434-6533 for information.

3:00 PM. Minute to Win It at South Regional Library. Compete against your friends to complete different challenges in one minute or less. Will you be able to win it in a minute? Open to ages 9-12 years. Registration required. Located at 8065 Lely Cultural Parkway, Naples. Call 239-252-7542 or check http://public.collier-lib.org for information. 4:30 PM. Princess Party at Vanderbilt Beach Library. Dress up (optional) and be a princess for one day. Meet a real princess, get your face painted, make a tiara and a gift for a special someone. We’ll also have a “tea party” with juice and treats. Open to ages 2 years and older. Registration required. Located at 788 Vanderbilt Beach Road, Naples. Call 239-597-8444 or check http://public.collierlib.org for additional information. 6:00 PM. Third Street South Festival of Lights. Third Street South’s official launch of the holiday season runs nightly Tuesday, Nov. 24 through Saturday, Nov. 28 from 6 to 9 p.m. Live music and bells resound from every courtyard and plaza as Santa arrives. For more information, call 239-6496707. (Third Street S. and Broad Avenue, Naples).

24 TUESDAY

25 WEDNESDAY

3:00 PM. Minute to Win It at East Naples Library. Compete against your friends to complete different challenges in one minute or less. Will you be able to win it in a minute? Ages 9-12 years. Registration required. Located at 8787 Tamiami Trail East, Naples. Call 239-775-5592 or check http:// public.collier-lib.org for additional information.

9:00 AM. My Gym Camp Day. Extended day until 2pm is available. Located at13020 Livingston Road, Naples. Call 239-431-6499 for additional information. Also held on November 27. 5:00 PM. Moonlit Fakahatchee Tours. The tour leaves from the ranger station at 137 Coastline Drive, Copeland, off Janes Scenic Drive. The

moonlit tour is $40 per person. For full details, directions and required reservations visit www. orchidswamp.org and click “tours and events.”

26 THURSDAY 7:30 AM. Gobble Gobble Four Miler to Benefit St Matthew’s House. Held at the Village on Venetian Bay. Start your Thanksgiving off on the right foot at the annual four mile walk/run. Dress up in your best Thanksgiving themed gear for a special prize and bring the little ones for the Lil’ Gobbler Dash. Visit gobblegobblefourmiler.com to register. 7:30 AM. Thanksgiving 5K. This beautiful 5k course will wind through downtown Naples with festivities staged from the picturesque Cambier Park. Plenty of free parking. Free 100 yard dash for children 6 and under. Free 1 mile run for children age 7-14. For registration go to www.gcrunner.org.

27 FRIDAY 5:00 PM. Grand Illuminations Tree Lighting at Village on Venetian Bay. Join us at The Village for our annual Grand Illuminations Tree Lighting Ceremony. Enjoy a snow show, holiday carolers, a magician, face painting, complimentary photos with Santa, stories with Mrs. Claus and much more. Tree lighting at 7 p.m. Located at 4200 Gulf Shore Blvd, Naples. Check http://venetianvillage. com for additional information.

8:30am - 2:30pm Extended Hours Available 2535 Northbrooke Plaza Dr. Naples, FL 34119 (Across from Super Target)

(239) 593-6668 www.childmont.com License # C20CO0018

NEAPOLITANfamily • November 2015

neafamily.com

30 DAYS OF

Giving

November is not just a month for gratitude; it is a month for giving. In recognition of Nonprofit Awareness Month, we have compiled our third annual Nonprofit Directory to help make you aware of the many opportunities to give in Southwest Florida. Each year we research thirty different nonprofits and select the ones with local connections and unique opportunities for volunteers of all ages and abilities. Just one day of your time can make a difference: Walk or run in a 5K, cheer for our veterans as they complete an Honor Flight mission, hire the Boys & Girls Club catering for your next event or shop or donate at a nonprofit’s resale shop. Have more time? Become a babysitter at a shelter, a baby rocker at a childcare agency, a tutor or mentor for students or coach your favorite sport at a nonprofit sports organization. To learn about other nonprofits please check out our previous directories at www.neafamily.com. 1. Alzheimer’s Association 1-800-272-3900 www.alz.org/flgulfcoast Many families care for a loved one who has this devastating disease. The mission of the Alzheimer’s Association is to eliminate Alzheimer’s disease through the advancement of research; to provide and enhance care and support for all affected; and to reduce the risk of dementia through the promotion of brain health. How you can help: Participate in the Walk to End Alzheimer’s on November 7, 2015 at 38

neafamily.com

9 a.m. at Fleischman Park in Naples. Create a team or join one by registering at the website listed above. Contact Summer Reyes at 941-3658883 or reyess@alzflgulf.org for more information. 2. The Boys & Girls Club of Collier County 239-325-1700 www.bgcc.com The Boys & Girls Club serves 3,000 children and teens by offering a safe place for young people to learn, grow and develop ongoing relationships

with caring adult professionals who support their educational, emotional, physical and social development. The Club offers many programs in the arts, sports, fitness, health, life skills, education and career development to help youth build self esteem and values. Their newest program, the CanTeen Food Truck, is a food truck business that helps teens build skills in the culinary arts, restaurant management and entrepreneurship. How you can help: Volunteers

must be at least 16 years old and can help with special events or work with children as tutors or mentors. Having a party? Let the Culinary Department cater your next event. Golfers can participate in the FORE-the-Kids Golf Tournament on November 7 where they will be paired with children in a putting competition. 3. Caleb’s Crusade Against Childhood Cancer 239-896-8786 www.calebscrusade.org

NEAPOLITANfamily • November 2015

A’llawna is an extremely intelligent 9-year-old who battles with oppositional defiant disorder and ADD. When she was referred to the new Children’s Community Action Team she was having violent outbursts, getting suspended and was kicked out of her after school program. Explosive arguments with her mother resulted in routine Crisis Unit admissions. Through the program’s familycentered intensive mentoring and treatment services, they received the comprehensive support necessary to overcome the loss of her beloved father and learned behavior modification and anger management skills. The team also got her into more challenging gifted classes. Today her relationship with her mother has never been stronger and they are now savoring all the joys that childhood brings.

Scott Burgess, CEO DLC

Her Mind is Our Concern. Mental health is a community issue. Fortunately, there’s a community solution. A’llawna is among one in four in Collier County who suffer from a mental illness. One in ten of us will experience some form of substance abuse. When a family member, friend or coworker battles a mental health or substance abuse problem, we suffer with them. Thankfully, David Lawrence Center is here for our community. A not-for-profit organization founded and still governed by community leaders, the David Lawrence Center is the behavioral health component of our community’s healthcare network. A true local resource, it relies on donations, fees and grants to invest in the health, safety and wellbeing of our community. D O N AT E O N L I N E :

When you or someone you love needs help, call on the highly compassionate, committed and competent professionals of the David Lawrence Center to inspire you to move beyond the crisis towards life-changing wellness.

NEAPOLITANfamily • November 2015

DavidLawrenceCenter.org NAPLES

239-455-8500

IMMOKALEE

239-657-4434

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Caleb’s Crusade supports advocacy, raises awareness for childhood cancer, and directly funds local families aiding in the financial challenges that come with such a diagnosis. This organization has helped families of childhood cancer with paying bills, groceries, medical equipment and travel expenses. Caleb’s Crusade was founded by Rob and Monique Whan in honor of their son Caleb, who lost his fight with leukemia at the age of four. How you can help: Caleb’s Crusade welcomes adults, students and children to volunteer at their fundraising events throughout the year. 4. Children’s Advocacy Center of Collier County 239-263-8383 www.caccollier.org This agency seeks to improve the lives of abused children by minimizing trauma and providing a safe environment during the investigation and healing process. The staff includes medical doctors, therapists, forensic interviewers, parenting educators and children’s advocates. In one year alone, the CAC can serve over 2000 children and their families. Services are free of charge to the client. How you can help: The CAC needs volunteers for office tasks and special events. 5. Collier Childcare Resources, Inc. 239-643-3908 www.collierchildcare.org Collier Childcare Resources, Inc. provides affordable, quality childcare services for children six weeks to five years 40

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of age, their families and early learning professionals in Collier County. Seventyfive percent of clients receive tuition assistance and all children receive three nutritious meals and snacks per day. Their A Step Up Child Development Centers serve up to 140 children at Immokalee and Golden Gate High Schools, allowing teen parents to receive free childcare while earning their diplomas. How you can help: CCCR has many volunteer opportunities including story tellers, baby rockers, tutoring, grant writing, clerical work, light maintenance work and help for their fundraising event. They also have an extensive wish list on their website that can be fulfilled by helpers of all ages. Some items include books, dress up clothes, bubbles, cameras, toys, first aid supplies, musical instruments, sunscreen, playground equipment and batteries. 6. Collier County Honor Flight 239-777-9295 www.collierhonorflight. org Collier County Honor Flight’s mission is to transport local veterans to Washington, D.C. to visit those memorials dedicated to honor their service and sacrifices. Top priority is given to the most senior or terminally ill heroes and the experience is provided free of charge. The veterans are accompanied by volunteers called Guardians who are present from the planning stages through the completion of the mission. Guardians are expected to pay for their own trip (about $400) and to treat

the veteran as though he or she is their own family member throughout the process. How you can help: In addition to being a Guardian, volunteers are needed for clerical work and answering phones. Volunteers of all ages are encouraged to be a part of the crowd that sends the veterans off on their mission and welcomes them home again that evening. The next mission is November 7, 2015. Check the website for the airport and itinerary information. 7. Collier County Junior Deputies League www.juniordeputies.com The Collier County Junior Deputies League works in cooperation with the Collier County Sheriffs Department to provide programs to help area youth learn drug and alcohol resistance, crime prevention, first aid, firearms safety, land stewardship, self-esteem, and respect for parents, teachers and law enforcement. Each year, Collier County fourth graders enjoy a free, supervised day at the county fair and fifth graders can enjoy an overnight campout during spring break at Camp Discovery. All kids can participate in the annual Kids Love Fishing event. How you can help: Donations are appreciated to support these programs and enhance the development of Camp Discovery. 8. Conservancy of Southwest Florida 239-262-0304 www.conservancy.org The Conservancy’s large campus houses a nature center and a wildlife hospital to carry

out its mission of protecting the natural environment of Southwest Florida through science and research, education, advocacy and wildlife rehabilitation. Collier County students enjoy field trips to the Conservancy where they learn about their environment and get up close to wildlife. How you can help: Volunteers ages 16 and older are needed to work in the Nature Center, help with wildlife rescue and transport, provide guided tours in the Discovery Center and on eco-cruises through area waterways, work in the gift shop, as trail guides, work in the animal hospital with the care of the injured animals and assist with educational programs. 9. Dress for Success 239-689-4992 www.swflorida.dressforsuccess.org Economically disadvantaged women are referred to Dress for Success by agencies such as shelters and domestic violence organizations where they will receive a complete interview suit, plus shoes, accessories and toiletries plus career counseling. Once the client has landed the job, she can return to Dress for Success for up to one week’s work of work attire and career support. The majority of the women served are single mothers age 18-38 who are living below the poverty line. How you can help: Donations of gently used clothing by appointment are needed. Volunteers also are needed and will be trained in a variety of tasks. Attend the Shop for Success event on November 3 from 5-9 p.m. at the Crowne

NEAPOLITANfamily • November 2015

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Plaza at Bell Tower Shops to scoop up fashionable finds for as low as $5. Tickets are available on the website. 10. The Early Learning Coalition of Southwest Florida 239-935-6100 www.elcofswfl.org The goals of the Early Learning Coalition of Southwest Florida include improving access to high quality child care and preschool options, collaborating with community agencies to achieve their mission and to provide professional development for those engaged in early learning services. How you can help: Volunteers can become a Literacy Buddy by corresponding through letters with a child and providing them with book three times per year. This program teaches children about correspondence, communication and appreciation of children’s literature. 11. Friends of Foster Children Forever 239-262-1808 www.friendsoffoster children.net When children are removed from their homes due to abuse or neglect, they often are confused and take few belongings. Friends of Foster Children Forever seeks to provide financial, educational and social support for these children. How you can help: There are many ways volunteers of all ages can help. Be a backpack bundler by helping to assemble and fill backpacks for children removed from their homes in times of crisis. 42

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Back to School Buddies help children and their families get items that they need during the Annual Back to School Fair. Be a holiday elf and pick up and wrap holiday gifts for the children or be a birthday club member by writing and sending cards for birthdays and for special achievements. Volunteers over 21 can be field trip chaperones, event photographers or work in the Courthouse Children’s Waiting Room. 12. Friends of the Library 239-262-8135 www.collier-friends.org Any day of the week your family can enjoy a free fun activity, lecture, live music or film not to mention the thousands of books and movies available to borrow from one of the branches of the Collier County Library System. The mission of the Friends is to enhance and expand the educational, recreational and technological needs of the Collier County Public Library. How you can help: For only $30 ($40 family) you can become a Friend of the Library or attend the public board and committee meetings to discuss upcoming projects and activities. 13. Friends of Lovers Key 239-463-4588 www.friendsoflovers key.org The Friends of Lovers Key (FOLKS) enhances one of Florida’s most beautiful state parks by driving the trams, removing invasive plants, repairing fences and raising money for staff training and a new visitors center.

How you can help: Volunteers can help with the many special events such as the Annual Turtle Trot 5K, the Great Outdoor Adventure Day, Valentine’s Vow Renewal and building the St. Patrick’s Day Parade float. Become a part of the park’s volunteer work force which makes the state’s dollars stretch further. 14. Grace Place 239-234-2400 www.graceplacenaples. org The vision of Grace Place is for all members of Golden Gate families have access to education to break the cycle of poverty. Grace Place accomplishes this through many programs including parenting classes, Mom and Tot Literacy programs, Kindergarten Readiness summer programs, school-age and high school leadership academies, adult financial and literacy classes and a Friday Food Pantry (stocked by the Harry Chapin Food Bank, Collier Harvest, Naples Harvest, Meals of Hope, Panera Bread Company and Empire Bagels). How you can help: Grace Place has many opportunities for volunteers including children, middle school and high school students. Experienced teachers, tutors, mentors, office and pantry help are needed. 15. Greater Marco Island YMCA 239-394-3144 www.greatermarcoy.org The YMCA is the nation’s leading nonprofit for youth development, healthy living and social responsibility. The

Marco Island YMCA also runs the ASPIRE program (After School Program for Inspiration, Recreation and Education) at Manatee, Lely and Parkside Elementary Schools in addition to the Marco YMCA campus. How you can help: Current needs include preschool and playground assistance, afterschool assistance in the ASPIRE program, Y Reads volunteers for the Afterschool Literacy Program, youth sports coaches and special event volunteers. Volunteers under age 18 must have a school administrator recommendation and those over 18 must agree to fingerprints. Volunteers of all ages can help fulfill the Y’s ongoing school supply wish list. 16. Guadalupe Center 239-594-2696 www.guadalupecenter. org The Guadalupe Center is committed to providing the children of Immokalee access to high quality academic and support programs from the age of six weeks through college graduation. They accomplish this with their Early Childhood Education Program, after school and summer tutoring programs and the Tutor Corps Program, where Immokalee High School Students earn scholarship money by being a tutor to younger students. How you can help: Donate new shoes, school supplies and backpacks to the Center’s Back to School Shoe and Supply Drive or toys to the Holiday Gift Shop. Donate food or your time to serving at Thanksgiving in the Park.

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Shop or donate at their resale shop located at 8100 Trail Blvd. in Naples. 17. Gulfshore Playhouse 239-261-7529 www.gulfshoreplayhouse.org Gulfshore Playhouse is committed to bringing quality professional theatre to our community while providing unique educational opportunities to diverse groups of people and students. How you can help: Volunteers are needed as ushers, carpenters, seamstresses and for special events. Donations of household items and clothing for props and costumes also are welcome. 18. Make-A-Wish Southern Florida 239-992-9474 www.sflwish.org Every 37 minutes, Make-AWish America grants a child battling a life-threatening illness their wish. The mission of the organization is to create give hope, strength and joy to these children by granting a wish.

How you can help: The Kids for Wish Kids® Tool Kit gives kids a step-by-step program to create a fundraiser with the help of an adult. Older students can join a local Youth Leadership Committee to plan and carry out fundraising projects.

Center. Their mission is to promote and advance education, interest and participation in the visual arts for all ages. How you can help: Volunteers are needed for the gift shop, hospitality, special events and art festivals.

19. Music for Minors Foundation 239-273-2250 www.music4minor.org Music4minors partners with music teachers in Collier and Lee Counties to identify music students who meet their criteria for receiving a free instrument. How you can help: In addition to monetary donations, Music4Minors accepts donations of new and used musical instruments. Attend events such as the Bonita Blues Festival in March, which supports the Music4Minors Foundation.

22. Naples Botanical Garden 239-643-7275 www.naplesgarden.org The mission of the Garden is to connect people and plants through education, conservation and science. The Garden creates a paradise that combines delightfully cultivated tropical gardens with beautifully restored habitats. How you can help: Volunteers age 12-15 must be accompanied by an adult. Current needs include horticulture assistance (weeding, raking, watering and moving plant material), arts and crafts assistance, butterfly house assistance, summer camp mentors and help with mailings.

20. Multiple Sclerosis Center of Southwest Florida 239-435-1901 www.mscenterswfl.org The mission of the Multiple Sclerosis Center is to improve life for those in Southwest Florida who are affected by Multiple Sclerosis by offering specialized therapies not typically covered by insurance and support groups. How you can help: Area businesses can donate their services or individual volunteers can offer their skills at various levels of the organization. 21. Naples Art Association 239-262-6517 www.naplesart.org The Naples Art Association operates the von Liebig Art

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23. New Horizons of Southwest Florida 239-948-4146 www.newhorizonsof swfl.org New Horizons currently reaches nearly 400 at-risk children and teens at seven locations in Naples, Bonita Springs, Estero and South Fort Myers; providing over 80,000 hours of after school tutoring and mentoring annually at no cost to their families. How you can help: Tutors and mentors are needed on weekday afternoons, help teach a craft or a skill such as sewing on Friday afternoons, share career opportunities with

teens or serve on a fundraising committee. 24. Our Mother’s Home of Southwest Florida, Inc. 239-267-4663 www.ourmothers home.com The mission of Our Mother’s Home is to transition teen mothers and their children from foster care and human trafficking to stable, happy and productive lives by providing a safe and nurturing home, education, parenting support, and physical, mental and spiritual care. The large home houses eight teen mothers and their children as long as they stay in school or have a job. How you can help: Volunteer opportunities include babysitting, tutoring, transportation, teaching life skills and mentoring. 25. Salt Warriors 239-734-0204 www.saltwarriors.org Founded in 2014, Salt Warriors is a nonprofit organization that organizes fitness challenges and events to benefit five local charities: Caleb’s Crusade, The Kira Foundation, GiGi’s Playhouse, The Passion Foundation and Adonis Autism. How you can help: Contact Salt Warriors to learn more about each of these charities and how to help. 26. Special Olympics of Southwest Florida 239-775-1991 www.specialolympics florida.org/collier The Special Olympics provides year-round sports training in 11 sports for more than

NEAPOLITANfamily • November 2015

27. Volunteer Services for Animals 239-261-4768 www.vsarescue.org Volunteer Services for Animals (VSA) helps the animals of Collier County through free and low cost pet vaccination and spay/neuter clinics, a feral TNR program, distribution of pet food and supplies to those pet owners in need. VSA also rescues, fosters and finds forever homes for unwanted animals. How you can help: Contact VSA to find out how to foster animals or donate supplies; visit the cats and dogs ready to be adopted at the Naples Petsmart on Saturdays and Sundays. 28. Together Rising www.togetherrising.org Naples blogger and author Glennon Doyle Melton founded this nonprofit on the theory that helping someone during their season of need also helps the giver. Together Rising has matched over 2400 families with donor families through their Holiday Hands Giving program and donated over $1 million in assistance to struggling families. How you can help: During a Love Flash Mob, the nonprofit calls for donations that are limited to $25 per donor

for a limited amount of time. Sign up to sponsor a family during the holidays and you will be matched to a family whose needs you can meet. 29. Wounded Warriors of South Florida 561-855-4207 www.wwofsf.org The mission of the Wounded Warriors of South Florida is to provide temporary, immediate financial assistance to service connected disabled veterans from Operation Iraqi Freedom, Operation Enduring Freedom and Operation New Dawn. In addition to helping these veterans with their bills, the Wounded Warriors of South Florida also refers them to partnering organizations such as Habitat for Humanity and Genesis Assistance Dogs for further support. How you can help: Contact the WWSF in order to learn of volunteer opportunities. 30. 45 MPH Couch Potato Greyhound Rescue 239-330-7895 www.45mphcouch potato.com Since being founded in 2014, this organization has become the official adoption group for the Naples/Fort Myers Greyhound Track. By working hand-in-hand with the racing industry, this rescue ensures the responsible placement of these gentle dogs into loving homes. How you can help: The best way to help is by fostering a dog, helping at festivals and special events or by lending your marketing/business skills.

NEAPOLITANfamily • November 2015

PLAY. LEARN. DREAM … Southwest Florida’s museum devoted to creativity, play & discovery, featuring: • • • •

38,000 sq. ft. of interactive exhibits Daily/Weekly educational programs Memberships available Open weekdays from 10am-5pm, Closed Wednesday Sat. 10am-5pm & Sun. 11am-4pm

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

EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATION SYMPOSIUM

400 hundred Collier County children and adults living with disabilities. How you can help: volunteer opportunities range from day of special event help, fundraising, administrative help to coaching. Supporters also can purchase a specialty license plate for their car for $15 over regular registration fees.

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World-renowned educator: Edith Peisach Creator of the acclaimed “Baby Stars” program Tuesday, December 1, 2015 5:00PM-8:00PM /Cost $50 / 0.3 CEUs TRADUCCION DISPONIBLE Hodges University 2647 Professional Circle, Naples, FL

To register: www.collierchildcare.org

239-643-3908

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NEAPOLITANfamily â&#x20AC;˘ November 2015