S W F L PA R E N T C H I L D. C O M
MARCH 2019
Sick Child? Same day sick appointments available FORT MYERS � � �- �� CAPE CORAL � � ��-���� LEHIGH ACRES � � �- ��
www.ppcswfl.com
Let OUR Family Take Care of YOUR Family Physician-Owned. Patient-Centered
Color the PPC Pals, then bring them into your doctor’s office where we will display them, or use to decorate in your own home.
Physician-Owned. Patient-Centered
www.ppcswfl.com | 239.275.5522 SOUTHWEST FLORIDA PARENT & CHILD » MARCH 2019 » 3
NOW ENROLLING children 2-6 years of age
BRIGHT BEGINNINGS EARLY SCHOOL Voluntary PreKindergarten (VPK) Unique Stepping Stones Program for children who are age ready to attend Kindergarten, but would benefit from a year of additional growth prior to the attending the rigors of elementary school
EXTENDED CARE:
NEW We now care for your children
8:30 am – 3:00 pm!
• Weekly Chapel • Annual Community Events: Trunk or Treat, Thankful Feast, Christmas Programs and Easter Extravaganza • Creative Curriculum and Conscious Discipline
8570 Cypress Lake Drive, Fort Myers, FL 33919 • 239.433.2232 www.brightbeginnings.online • brightbeginningsearlyschool@gmail.com 4 » MARCH 2019 » SWFLPARENTCHILD.COM
contents »
swfl
parent&child
29
Features
49
In Every Issue
29 the gardener Sue Moore planted the seed that became the Lakes Park Children’s Garden
11 all the moms
31 affording camp Scholarships help many families afford to send their children to summer programs
S W F L PA R
ENTCHILD
.COM
43 safety Teens need you to do this one thing when it comes to driving
How to help kids deal with gossip
20 in the kitchen
49 travel
Take full advantage of strawberry season while it lasts
On the cover A boy traverses the Myakka River Canopy Walk about 25 feet high in the oaks of Myakka River State Park in Sarasota.
The Midtown Beach Sports Complex is scoring among older kids with beach volleyball
19 ask the expert
37 hoppin’ hikes 10 great trails for families put you and your kids in touch with nature
27 teens
“All That” makes a comeback, Jessica Simpson offers valuable advice and the danger in your plastic
The sights and sounds of Nashville captivate families of all musical tastes
23 dining out
52 around town
Keke’s Breakfast Cafe in Cape Coral and Fort Myers
Best bets on local events for families
25 kid stuff
57 voices
Little Chefs program imparts sweet and savory lessons
The nonprofit Quest for Success prepares students for college
PHOTO BY AMANDA INSCORE
MARCH 20 19
Other Departments 7 8 9 13
editor’s note our contributors online me time
15 16 44 53
5 Things fyi family album calendar
SOUTHWEST FLORIDA PARENT & CHILD » MARCH 2019 » 5
FREE PRESCHOOL Early Learning Coalition of SWFL can help your family with Voluntary Pre-Kindergarten If you live in Florida & your child turns 4 YEARS OLD by September 1, your child is eligible for the VPK program. Some 5 year olds are also eligible. For more information & to register your child: FamilyServicesFloridaEarlyLearning.com
www.elcofswfl.org Serving Collier, Glades, Hendry & Lee Counties | (239) 935-6100
6 » MARCH 2019 » SWFLPARENTCHILD.COM
Help Your Child Learn AN EYE ON THE FUTURE Make an appointment today. Your future suddenly became a whole lot clearer. A child’s learning disabilities can be caused by vision related problems, even if the child has 20/20 vision. Visit EyeDocks.com to watch a video about Vision Therapy.
Eye Care Services
• Comprehensive Eye Examinations • Contact Lens Fitting • Glaucoma Evaluations • Cataract Evaluation & Post-Op Care • Genetic Testing for Macular Degeneration • Visual Fields • Opto-Maps
Insurance Accepted
The knowledgeable staff at Fort Myers Eye Associates PA is experienced in working with vision insurance providers. We will work directly with you and your vision insurer. We accept sever types of vision insurance.
8801 College Pkwy, Fort Myers (239) 437-2004 EyeDocks.com
editor's note »
parent &child
swfl
S W F L PA R E N T C H I L D. C O M
Part of the USA TODAY Network
Volume 20, Issue 3
2442 Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd. Fort Myers, FL 33901 swflparentchild.com President & Publisher William R. Barker General Manager Kathryn Robinson Kinsey kathryn@swflparentchild.com Editor Pamela Smith Hayford (239) 335-0448 pamela@swflparentchild.com Art Director Lindi Daywalt-Feazel
Editorial Contributors Randy Kambic, Larry King, Nancy Next, Shelby Reynolds, Andrea Stetson, Sue Zumstein Photographer Amanda Inscore Vice President/Advertising Sales Nancy M. Solliday Specialty Publications Team Coordinator Dennis Wright dennis@swflparentchild.com Advertising Account Executive Nicole Holey (239) 281-6455 nholey@fortmyer.gannett.com Anthony Enright (239) 478-3607 aenright@gannett.com
Distribution (239) 335-0211 Southwest Florida Parent & Child is a FREE publication distributed at more than 500 locations throughout Southwest Florida by The News-Press Media Group. All rights reserved. We make every effort to ensure the accuracy of the information published but cannot be held responsible for any consequences arising from omissions or errors. Any opinions expressed by writers and advertisers are not necessarily opinions of the magazine or publisher.
Member of
Play outside Warm sun on my skin. A cool breeze. These are the days that make visitors fall in love with Southwest Florida (and make me want to play hooky). But these days are numbered. So get outside this month and explore Southwest Florida nature. We found 10 great hikes that are perfect for families with young children. Many of the parks have longer, more challenging trails, too, for older or more experienced hiking families. Some have boardwalk trails, but mostly they’re trails where sneakers meet the dirt, putting you in touch with earth and nature. It’s also that time of year for summer camp sign-ups. Some programs will fill up before the month is over. And many are quite expensive. That’s why this month’s issue gets into scholarships. At some camps, most of the campers get some sort of discount thanks to scholarships. Don’t be afraid to ask. Check out the where and how starting on page 31. For those looking for summer programs, you’ll find a few of those in our calendar pages (and several camps advertise in the magazine, so look at the ads, too). We’ll have a more robust database online at swflparentchild.com. I’d love to go into more detail about all the wonderful things we have for you in this issue of SW FL Parent & Child, but I need to get outside. See ya! PHOTO BY BRIAN TIETZ
Dedicated to serving the families of Lee and Collier counties
Pamela Smith Hayford, Editor
Contact us: We enjoy hearing from you. Send your photos, letters or comments to: pamela@swflparentchild.com. Or visit us online:
swflparentchild.com
SOUTHWEST FLORIDA PARENT & CHILD » MARCH 2019 » 7
» our contributors Meet the contributors to this month’s issue of Southwest Florida Parent & Child magazine.
Randy Kambic • Travel: Sights and Sounds of Nashville
Contributing writer Randy Kambic covers a variety of topics, including travel. He was a writer and a public relations executive in the New York area for about 25 years before moving here in 2007. He has written for Gulfshore Life, Gulfshore Business, Times of the Islands magazines, Natural Awakenings magazine and The News-Press. He enjoys tennis, the outdoors and the people of Southwest Florida.
Jean Le Boeuf • Dining Out: Simpler Than It Sounds
Jean Le Boeuf is the pseudonym used by a local food lover who dines at restaurants anonymously and without warning, with meals paid for by The News-Press. Follow the critic at facebook.com/jeanleboeufswfl or @JeanLeBoeuf on Twitter and Instagram.
Nancy Next • Ask the Expert: How to Deal with Gossip
Nancy Next is a Southwest Florida yogi, teacher and writer. Her young adult book “Trash Talk: Words Matter” is available on Amazon and at nancynext.com.
Shelby Reynolds • In the Kitchen: A Primer on Strawberry Season Shelby Reynolds writes about the latest food and beverage trends for Naples Daily News. She also compiles a weekly list of the top 5 things to do each weekend in Southwest Florida. Shelby joined the Naples Daily News in 2016.
Andrea Stetson • Kid Stuff, Teens, What Sue Grew and How to Save on Summer Camp Andrea Stetson writes for SW FL Parent & Child, Grandeur Magazine, The News-Press, Naples Daily News and The Banner. She has also been a news producer and writer at television stations in Fort Myers, Miami and Scranton. Andrea lives in North Naples with her husband, daughter, dog and eight bunnies. Her son is a student at Georgia Tech. She enjoys traveling, swimming, boating, pickleball and being with family.
Sue Zumstein • Voices: College: Is it all About the Numbers?
Sue Zumstein is the executive director of Quest for Success, a nonprofit that helps students prepare for college. She is also chair of the School Advisory Council at Barron Collier High School. She moved to Naples in 1983 after pursuing an education degree at Penn State University. Her sons, Kyle and Corey, graduated from Barron Collier in 2006 and 2009 respectively before continuing their education at prestigious universities. Learn more about Quest at questforsuccess.com or 239-403-71740.
8 » MARCH 2019 » SWFLPARENTCHILD.COM
online »
swflparentchild.com Get the latest event information and family news every day at swflparentchild.com.
“Wow, Mommy! You look
Find summer camps We’re collecting summer camp information so that parents and other caregivers can search for programs here in Southwest Florida on our website. If you’re running a camp, we’ll have details online for submitting your information. And if you’re looking for a camp, you’ll be able to search our camps database.
AMAZING!” Get your pre-baby body back with a MOMMY MAKEOVER! Surgically contours and tightens the abdomen Lifts and shapes the breasts
More family events Looking for something fun to do with the kids this weekend? Visit swflparentchild.com for the latest events for all ages, from tots to teens, and maybe even some date nights.
Get SWFL Parent & Child anywhere at any time LIKE US ON FACEBOOK facebook.com/swflparentchild FOLLOW US ON TWITTER @swflparentchild
239.482.1900 • Garramone.com 12998 South Cleveland Ave • Fort Myers, FL 33907
FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM @swflparentchild FIND US ON PINTEREST pinterest.com/ swflparentchild
READ US ON ISSUU issuu.com/swflparentchild
VOTED 5 YEARS IN A ROW! Best Plastic Surgeon Best Breast Cosmetic Surgeon
FOR OVER 10 YEARS IN A ROW!
SOUTHWEST FLORIDA PARENT & CHILD » MARCH 2019 » 9
& NATURE PARK SNORES & ROARS OVERNIGHT CAMPING ADVENTURE!
March 23 • April 6 • May 11 • June 8 Check in at 6 pm, check out at 9 am Nature Park • $39 per person • Includes pizza, snack and continental breakfast • Guided tour of the park/close animal encounters • Tents and chairs provided Pre-registration required. For details, call Sandy at (239) 995-2141 x110 or email slynch.shellfactory@gmail.com JUST BRING YOUR SLEEPING BAG! – Shelly
2787 N. Tamiami Trail (US 41) N. Fort Myers, FL 33903 (239) 995-2141 • shellfactory.com
Your Spokesplorer
C A M P
I M A G March 15 March 18 - 22 June 3 - August 9 Register today online at:
www.theIMAG.org
CAMP IMAG Where Learning Is Fun! CAMP IMAG offers students an exciting, integrated curriculum blending science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) with history and the arts in new themed weekly sessions for rising 1st - 8th graders. © IMAG 2019
Junior Camp Assistant Training Program is available for rising 9th - 12th grade students. Active IMAG members receive a $50 discount per week. IMAG History and Science Center
10 » MARCH 2019 » SWFLPARENTCHILD.COM
|
2000 Cranford Avenue
|
Fort Myers, FL 33916
|
239.243.0043
all the moms »
All the
Moms SW FL Parent & Child is part of the USA Today Network, home to All the Moms, a place on the web where you’ll find parenting advice, celebrity parent news and more. Here’s what you missed in February:
Jessica Simpson to pregnant moms: Don’t lean back Jessica Simpson was reaching her breaking point in February. She has battled the not-so glamorous side effects of pregnancy, including seriously swollen feet and severe acid reflux. Last month, Simpson, 38, posted a hilarious Instagram picture of herself holding a broken toilet seat cover, sharing a cautionary tale to other expectant moms nearing their due dates. “Warning…Don’t lean back on the toilet when pregnant,” she wrote.
Don’t microwave plastic containers The American Academy of Pediatrics is calling for stronger federal food safety requirements, warning families to avoid microwaving and dishwashing plastic containers that contain harmful chemicals. Something that’s particularly catching the attention of parents: Heating plastics (including bottles) in the microwave or running them through a dishwasher increases the chance of leaking dangerous chemicals, according to the AAP. Plastics with recycling codes 3 for phthalates, 6 for styrene and 7 for bisphenols should be avoided, the organization’s report states. Glass containers or stainless steel packaging is recommended as best. Choosing whole foods over processed food also reduces risk of contamination, as well as washing hands and produce during food preparation.
Nickelodeon brings back “All That” We don’t know who’ll be more excited for this one — parents or kids — but Nickelodeon says it’s reviving the ’90s sketch-comedy series “All That.” There’ll be an all-new cast, and Kenan Thompson, who kicked off his career with the original show, is the executive producer. “It means everything to me,” Thompson told Variety when he got the call from Nickelodeon president Brian Robbins. “It was my first job that I ever had. It gave me an opportunity.” “All That” aired 1994 to 2005 and featured a slew of stars like Amanda Bynes, Nick Cannon, Kel Mitchell and Jamie Spears — all of whom are expected to make an appearance in the reboot.
SOUTHWEST FLORIDA PARENT & CHILD » MARCH 2019 » 11
MIROMAR OUTLETS
®
READY, SET, SMILE.
Voted the BEST FACTORY OUTLET MALL, BEST SHOPPING EXPERIENCE and BEST PLACE TO BUY SHOES in Southwest Florida
DENTAL CHECK-UPS $ 99 BRACES 25% OFF
FRIDAY NIGHT CONCERT SERIES
Fridays, 6 to 9 p.m. in the Restaurant Piazza March 1: Highlighting the music of local bands March 8: Rockin’ Horse March 15: The Collaboration Band March 22: Neon Summer March 29: Electric Lipstick
LIVE ENTERTAINMENT
Saturdays from 1 to 7 p.m. & Sundays from 2 to 5 p.m. Throughout the mall.
DANCING CLASSROOMS SPRING EXHIBITION
Saturday, March 2 11 a.m. to 12 p.m. in the Restaurant Piazza Fifth-grade students from Lee County Public Schools demonstrate their ballroom dancing skills.
CAR CRUISE-IN
BIG BAND CONCERT
Sunday, March 17 3 to 5 p.m. near the Restaurant Piazza Music performed by Southwest Florida Big Band.
MOTIVATIONAL MONDAY
Monday, March 18 6:30 p.m. on the lawn near Ford’s Garage Join us for this 21+ yoga class and enjoy a beer after class at Ford’s Garage. Wednesday, March 20 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. PLAYLAND in Free treats for moms while their children have fun at Kids Crafts.
DOG DAZE AT MIROMAR
Every Wednesday 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. PLAYLAND in Our new Kids Crafts Reward Card is good for a $10 Miromar Outlets gift card after your fifth visit.
Tuesday, March 5 6 to 9 p.m. in the Restaurant Piazza Celebrate Fat Tuesday with giveaways, free drink specials, a New Orleans inspired bar crawl, and a grand-prize extended weekend getaway for two to New Orleans! Thursday, March 7 6 to 8 p.m. near the Restaurant Piazza Make it a date with your dog and enjoy pet-friendly specials and entertainment.
SCIENCE SATURDAY
Saturday, March 9 PLAYLAND 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. in Kids learn by doing interactive science projects.
FAMILY YOGA WITH KATHRYN
Saturday, March 16 PLAYLAND 10 a.m. in A FREE 45-minute beginners’ yoga class for families with toddlers to tweens. Bring your own mat.
BABY LEPRECHAUN RACES
Sunday, March 17 Registration at 11 a.m. PLAYLAND in Join Miromar Outlets for this fun event in which babies must crawl past the finish line to compete for prizes.
*MUST MENTION THIS OFFER TO RECEIVE DISCOUNT. NEW PATIENTS ONLY. DOES NOT APPLY TO DOWN PAYMENT AND CANNOT BE USED IN CONJUNCTION WITH ANY OTHER OFFER, INSURANCE, OR REDUCED-FEE PROGRAM. THE PATIENT & ANY OTHER PERSON RESPONSIBLE FOR PAYMENT HAS RIGHT TO REFUSE TO PAY, CANCEL PAYMENT OR BE REIMBURSED FOR PAYMENT FOR ANY OTHER SERVICE, EXAM OR TREATMENT WHICH IS PERFORMED AS A RESULT OF AND WITHIN 72 HRS OF RESPONDING TO THE ADVERTISEMENT FOR THE FREE, DISCOUNTED, REDUCED-FEE SERVICE, EXAMINATION OR TREATMENT. LIC#DN13483, LIC#DN18083, LIC#DN17541, LIC#DN20050, ADA 0150, 0272, 1120, 1208. DRS. MARVIN BECKER, D.D.S. AND DONALD A. GALLO, D.M.D. DOES NOT APPLY TO DOWN PAYMENT, CANNOT BE USED IN CONJUNCTION WITH CERTAIN INSURANCE. **INCLUDES COMPLETE SET OF BRACES FOR KIDS & ADULTS, INITIAL EXAM, FOLLOW-UP VISITS, PATIENT RECORDS & RETAINERS. NOT VALID ON TREATMENT ALREADY BEGUN. INSURANCE PATIENT DISCOUNTS MAY VARY. SPECIALTY RETAINERS OR BRACKETS ADDITIONAL. FREE CONSULT INCLUDED. MAY NOT BE COMBINED W/ANY OTHER OFFER, DISCOUNT, INSURANCE OR REDUCED-FEE PROGRAM. FINANCING AVAILABLE ON APPROVED CREDIT. VALID AT PARTICIPATING OFFICES ONLY. PATIENT & ANY OTHER PERSON RESPONSIBLE FOR PAYMENT HAS RIGHT TO REFUSE TO PAY, CANCEL PAYMENT OR BE REIMBURSED FOR PAYMENT FOR ANY OTHER SERVICE, EXAM OR TREATMENT PERFORMED AS A RESULT OF & WITHIN 72 HRS OF RESPONDING TO THE ADVERTISEMENT FOR THE FREE, DISCOUNTED, REDUCED-FEE SERVICE, EXAM OR TREATMENT. LIC DN#20050. ADA9310. OFFER EXPIRES 60 DAYS FROM RECEIPT.
KIDS DAY
CELEBRATE MARDI GRAS WITH MIROMAR OUTLETS
FREE KIDS CRAFTS
BABY BOOT CAMP
Monday, Wednesday, Friday & Saturday PLAYLAND 9 a.m. in Certified fitness professionals instruct exercise classes for pregnant, postnatal and ultra-fit moms.
FITNESS CAMP
Tuesday, Thursday & Friday PLAYLAND 6:30 a.m. in 60-minute boot camp-styled class designed specifically for women.
ROCK CLIMBING FUNWALLS NOW OPEN Party packages available at MiromarOutlets.com/play
AMAZING THINGS 5-D MOTION THEATER Suite 323, (239) 262-9464 Party packages available at MiromarOutlets.com/play
Visit MiromarOutlets.com for more details.
SAVE UP TO 70% OFF RETAIL PRICES! Miromar Outlets Gift Cards* are valid at all Outlet Stores and Restaurants and can be purchased at MiromarOutlets.com, the Mall Office or Visitor Information Kiosk. 0319-0501
(239) 948-3766 • MiromarOutlets.com • I-75, Exit 123, Corkscrew Road, in Estero, between Naples & Fort Myers
*Subject to monthly maintenance fee. Terms and Conditions of the Card Agreement are set forth at MiromarOutlets.com. Copyright © 2019, Miromar Development Corporation. Miromar Outlets is a registered service mark of Miromar Development Corporation.
12 » MARCH 2019 » SWFLPARENTCHILD.COM
239.567.9480 239.443.5988 239.963.1135
mainstreetsmiles.com
MOMS APPRECIATION DAY
Saturday, March 30 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. PLAYLAND in Toddlers to 12-year-olds participate in fun activities and receive free pizza, ice cream and other goodies.
Sunday, March 3 PLAYLAND 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. near Classic, exotic and custom cars on display.
Ft. Myers Cape Coral Naples
me time »
Raise your glass These creative cups bring personality to your day, from that first morning sip to your evening digestif.
Keep your cool Tervis tumblers keep cold drinks cold and hot sips hot, plus the company is based here in Florida, employing some 900 people. Makes you feel good all around, doesn’t it? The Dad Favorite Tervis tumbler is $16.99 at Tervis stores and tervis.com.
Bring your inspiration
Put life in perspective Mornings can be tough. This 16-ounce coffee cup from Threshold keeps things in perspective. Bonus: The wide bottom makes it tougher to tip over. $5.99 at Target and target.com.
You can do it! Whether it’s getting your butt to the gym or drinking 8 cups of water in 24 hours, this 24-ounce Formations water bottle cheers you on. $14.99 at bedbathandbeyond.com.
Lighten the mood
NIGHT
DATE
Perfect for an after-dinner drink on the lanai, these shatterproof ’80s Humor stemless wine glasses by Govino add a little levity to the evening. Ergonomic thumb notches help you keep your grip. $22.95 at bedbathandbeyond.com.
For a grown-up night out, retreat to the island atmosphere and craft cocktails of Bimini Bait Shack, the last watering hole before crossing the causeway from Fort Myers to Sanibel. The drinks are served in some unusual drinkware: fish bowls, coconuts, even real pineapples. The casual, open air establishment has views of the water, live music and a Caribbean atmosphere.
SOUTHWEST FLORIDA PARENT & CHILD » MARCH 2019 » 13
IT’S YOUR LUCKY DAY!
$5 OFF
wristbands on St. Patrick’s Day! Offer only valid on March 17, 2019. Cannot be combined with any other offers.
Make your child’s next birthday party easy at ZOOMERS! We’ll set it up and clean it up. You bring the cake, kids and enjoy!
$50 OFF
A ZOOMER-TASTIC OR ZOOMER FEST PARTY *Present this coupon to redeem. No cash value. Cannot be used for the Zoomer Party package and cannot be combined with any other offers. Additional restrictions may apply. Expires 3/31/19.
17455 Summerlin Rd. Fort Myers, FL 33908
ZoomersFun.com • 239.481.ZOOM
JUNIOR GOLFERS 2019 SUMMER TOURNAMENT PROGRAM
THE NEXT STEP IN YOUR JUNIOR GOLFER’S GROWTH AND DEVELOPMENT
SOUTHWEST FLORIDA
JUNIOR GOLF ASSOCIATION
HAVE FUN AND MAKE NEW FRIENDS WHILE LEARNING: • How to Compete in USGA Tournaments • The Rules of Golf • Fundamentals of Golf
Player Development Tour Ages 8-18
• Instructional clinics with PGA professionals for players with limited playing experience • Played on different local executive and full length courses each week • Tees appropriate for players’ capabilities
Ages 8-12
• 9-hole Tournaments designed to improve skills • Different local course each week • Instructional clinics with PGA professionals
Ages 13-18
• 18-hole Tournaments under USGA rules • Played on different high-level courses throughout Lee, Collier and Charlotte Counties • Instructional clinics with PGA professionals
ALL 9 OR 18 HOLE PLAY BASED ON SKILL LEVEL SUPPORT JUNIOR GOLF! Purchase or renew your “GOLF CAPITOL OF THE WORLD” specialty tag online or from your tax office.
9 Hole Program- $25 18 Hole Program- $155 for the entire Tournament Season Apply today at SWFJGA.org
Summer Golf Starts June 1st Sign up today at SWFJGA
The school is neither endorsing nor sponsoring this event, product or service nor endorsing the views of the sponsoring organization. REGISTRATION NUMBER DTN: 2872601. A COPY OF THE OFFICIAL REGISTRATION AND FINANCIAL INFORMATION MAY BE OBTAINED FROM THE DIVISION OF CONSUMER SERVICES BY CALLING 1-800- HELP-FLA (465-7352) TOLL-FREE WITHIN THE STATE. REGISTRATION DOES NOT IMPLY ENDORSEMENT, APPROVAL, OR RECOMMENDATION BY THE STATE of FLORIDA
14 » MARCH 2019 » SWFLPARENTCHILD.COM
5 things »
Trail READY
Gear up for your big family hike or summer camp experience with these great finds.
Start from the top Technically, March heralds in the season of spring. For us in Southwest Florida, that means a little more sun. Pop this Bug Camo hat on your little one for some extra protection. What kid could resist those bugs? (Also comes in Forest Friends, Butterfly and Unicorn.) By Kid Made Modern. $5 at Target and target.com.
Bug off Here in southern Florida, when hiking outdoors, it’s important to protect your little ones from the elements with hydration, sunscreen and bug protection. These mosquito repellent wristbands by Para’kito won the 2018 Family Choice Award. They’re adjustable, comfortable, waterproof and have no DEET, GMOs or alcohol added. Available in a variety of colors (even more fashionable looks for grownups), $19.50 at parakito.com.
Look out! Binoculars make a hike more exciting by giving kids a closer look at birds and other wildlife. These Educational Insights GeoSafari Jr. Kidnoculars are recommended for ages 3 and older. $14.99 at bedbathandbeyond.com.
Hiker’s log Logging what you see on a hike adds more depth to the experience. This nature journal for kids features designated space for recording weather, collecting samples, drawing doodles and writing about what they’ve experienced. Writing prompts include “What I Heard,” “What I Saw” and “What I Felt and Smelled.” It’s also great for summer camp. $8 at barnesandnoble.com.
Entomologist in the making Southwest Florida has lots of interesting bugs, from the enormous eastern lubber grasshopper to little love bugs and beautiful butterflies. Kids can capture and observe them in these colorful bug catchers from Bullseye’s Playground. (Be sure to help the kids release them back to nature.) $9 for a 3-pack at target.com.
SOUTHWEST FLORIDA PARENT & CHILD » MARCH 2019 » 15
« fyi
'Lion King' leaps into Southwest Florida Remember when we told you that Broadway shows come to Southwest Florida? Well, here’s one of them. Disney’s “The Lion King” brings Broadway to the Barbara B. Mann Performing Arts Hall in Fort Myers on April 3-21. It’s the winner of six Tony Awards, including Best Musical. Tickets start at $37. Get details at bbmannpah.com or lionking.com or call the box office at 239-481-4849.
Uncommon Friends scholarships available Some of the awards are $1,000. Some are $5,000. And they’re open to a wide range of students, from future lawyers to single parents and grieving students. The Uncommon Friends Foundation is now accepting applications for its 2019-20 scholarships. Nominees must live in Lee, Charlotte, Collier, Glades or Hendry counties, need financial assistance, excel in school or their personal life and have high quality character traits. Deadline to apply is April 1. For applications, visit uncommonfriends.org/scholarships/ opportunities
16 » MARCH 2019 » SWFLPARENTCHILD.COM
PAW Patrol returns this summer PAW Patrol Live! is coming back to Southwest Florida this summer and tickets are now on sale. In “Race to the Rescue,” the heroic pups from the PAW Patrol series take the stage with Bunraku puppetry at the Barbara B. Mann Performing Arts Hall in Fort Myers on July 30 and 31. Tickets start at $21. V.I.P., or Very Important Pup, tickets start at $101 and include an after-show meet-and-greet. Get details at bbmannpah.com or call the box office at 239-481-4849.
Billy Graham's daughter, grandaughter to speak at fundraiser
• New Born through School Age Children • 19 Years of Private Business • ELC School Readiness Provider
Infidelity. Divorce. Teen pregnancy. Ruth Graham, the daughter of Evangelist Billy Graham, and her daughter Windsor talk about their struggles and how they overcame challenges at the Lifeline Family Center’s annual benefit Thursday, March 14 at McGregor Baptist Church in Fort Myers. Lifeline is a residential program for homeless women ages 16-25 in crisis pregnancies who are not part of the foster care program. Tickets for the dinner are $85 each or $480 for a table of eight. Doors open at 5:30 p.m., dinner is at 6:30. For tickets, visit lifelinefamilycenter.org/benefitdinner or call 239-242-7238.
We are currently looking for an experienced teacher to join our team!
Pre-School Education, 3 to 5 year olds
Lehigh Child Care Center’s pre-school program helps children achieve school readiness in all areas of academic and social learning. The Best Licensed, Privately Owned Preschool in Southwest Florida. “Give your child the best education” Lee Blvd. www.mylccc.com Huntdale St. E Mon-Fri, 6.30 am - 6.30 pm Entrance behind CVS Lehigh Regional Medical Center
Art contest celebrates environment Keep Lee County Beautiful — the organization behind local beach clean-ups and litter prevention programs — put a call out for artistic students for its 30th annual Leave the Scene Clean calendar art contest. Students in grades 1-12 are asked to visualize a correct environmental action and transpose their thoughts into a work of art. The 12th-grade winner and the cover winner will receive $500. The remaining artists selected for the calendar receive $50. Deadline is April 22. For details, visit klcb.org/leave-the-scene-clean-calendar.html or call 239334-3488.
Host families needed for exchange students The EF Educational Homestay Program has a group of junior Chinese students ages 9-13 coming to Cape Coral in August, and they’re looking for families to host them. It’s a chance for American families to learn about life in China, and a chance for Chinese students to learn about life in the U.S. The program keeps the kids busy Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. In the evenings and weekends, they spend time with their “American family.” The students are in the U.S. August 8-18. To get more information, visit ef.edu/ehp or email local coordinator Kim Muchmore at muchmores4@msn.com.
Experience and training in this field is preferred and all applicants must be at least 18 years old.
We are here! E. Point Dr.
*
1491 East Point Drive Lehigh Acres entrance behind CVS
239-369-5437
Ocean Magic Happens Here At Sanibel Sea School, each day is filled with moments of wonder in the water. We offer day classes, camps and experiences for kids, families, and grown-ups, so come with us and be amazed. For more information, visit sanibelseaschool.org or call (239) 472-8585. A nonprofit organization. SOUTHWEST FLORIDA PARENT & CHILD » MARCH 2019 » 17
Explore what Canterbury School has to offer! Open to ALL students in grades Pre-K4 -12 s e Ar t re th o l p x E
Take an Adventure
Fun Sp ecia
lty Cam ps
Summer Programs available
June 10 - August 9
18 » MARCH 2019 » SWFLPARENTCHILD.COM
ns
Make Lifelong Friends
assio our P Y e u Purs
Register Online www.canterburyfortmyers.org/SummerPrograms
Nancy Next is a Southwest Florida yogi and teacher. Her young adult book “Trash Talk: Words Matter” is available on Amazon. nancynext.com
ask the expert »
NA NC Y NE X T
Kids’ guide to surviving gossip Southwest Florida author Nancy Next shares an excerpt from her book “Trash Talk: Words Matter”
W
e all talk about people. “I have to tell you what Angie did at the basketball game. It was great!” “Did you hear Tony was accepted to college?” We like to brag on our friends, note the accomplishments of others and share wisdom and experience from people other than ourselves. When does gossip become bad? Here are five questions to ask before you open your mouth: 1. Is this story embarrassing? 2. Is it your story to tell? 3. Does telling the story start trouble or make peace? 4. What is your motivation for telling this story? 5. Will someone feel bad about herself if she hears this story? Let’s begin. Is this story embarrassing?
Imagine your pal is sitting right next to you, and you decide to describe in detail how she tripped and tossed her lunch tray in front of the entire cafeteria hoi polloi. Your audience may love the story. But would your pal be laughing at her misstep, or would she be ashamed? If you aren’t sure, ask yourself how you would feel. Are you lifting your friend, celebrating life’s interesting moments, or are you shaming her?
Embarrassing people is one tool some can use to steal power, to nibble away at others’ self-esteem, to make them smaller. Is that what you want to do? This leads to the next question: Is it your story to tell?
When in doubt, always ask permission to share other people’s private experiences. If someone is seriously sick, if someone’s parents are divorcing, if he got suspended, if she was arrested, it isn’t your drama to share. Let people be the gatekeepers of their own stories. If you must share, get permission first. “Say, do you mind if I tell people that?” Be prepared for a NO! Does this story start trouble?
When push comes to shove, the
best people don’t push or shove in conversation. When we are our best selves, we add to the light in the world; we’re peacemakers, not troublemakers. We’re smart people talking about smart things for smart results. Do you realize you could be igniting a blaze between two people when you repeat a less-than-nice comment? “Guess who called you an idiot and made fun of you behind your back!” First you have to get your own head on straight. Ask yourself why you are repeating this. What’s your motivation? Be honest. No one enjoys hearing insults second hand. Feelings will be bruised. Someone could feel bad about herself if she hears this story.
Are you trying to hurt someone’s feelings and get away with it, because, hey, someone else said it and not you? Are you bragging about a pal who won the school election after the person sitting in front of you lost? Are you mentioning Katie’s new boyfriend to Senny, the girl he dumped? You know that’s going to hurt the person in front of you, and it really isn’t necessary. Unless of course that’s what you want to do. Do you?
ASK THE EXPERT We welcome questions from readers. Ask us anything. We’ll find the answer. Send your question to editor@swflparentchild.com with “Ask the Expert” in the subject line.
SOUTHWEST FLORIDA PARENT & CHILD » MARCH 2019 » 19
in the kitchen »
SHELBY R E Y NOLDS
A primer on
season in SWFL trawberry season is still going strong in Southwest Florida, with the plump, ruby-red fruits filling up local farms across the area. While the rest of the country is warming up to bowls of hearty soups, we’re basking in juicy, tropical fruits. This time of year, Southwest Florida’s tropical environment lends well to growing strawberries and other produce (tomatoes, cucumbers and grapefruit are also in season in winter and early spring). According to the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, Florida is ranked second in the production of strawberries. Find them at farmers markets or U-pick farms across the area, and if you have a green thumb, local experts say strawberries are fairly easy to grow yourself in raised beds or containers. And in the kitchen, strawberries can be very versatile. Dip them in melted chocolate or drizzle with balsamic. Toss them in a salad with nuts and blue cheese. Or break it down in a saucepan with barbecue sauce to pour over pork chops. David Williams, chef at Fresh Harvest Café at Farmer Mike’s U-Pick in Bonita Springs, shared with us a creative twist on a classic favorite: strawberry and mango nachos made with dried apple chips. Let’s dig in.
20 » MARCH 2019 » SWFLPARENTCHILD.COM
FILE PHOTO
How to grow them, where to pick them and a fun recipe that kids will love
Growing tips Florida strawberries can be planted in home gardens beginning in the fall (September to early November) and enjoyed through the winter and spring. Strawberries require temperatures between 50 and 80 degrees and less than 14 hours of daylight to flower and produce fruit.
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Grow strawberries in a full-sun location with at least eight hours of direct sunlight. You can plant strawberries in rows in raised beds or in planter boxes, pots or other containers. Just make sure your planting spot has good drainage. Before planting, mix in two pounds of a fertilizer containing nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium per 10 feet of soil.
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Many growers plant strawberries in raised beds with plastic mulch for weed control and to keep soil off the berries. Use transplants for planting, setting the transplants through slits in the mulch. Make sure you do not cover the crowns of the transplants. This is one of the best defenses for warding off diseases and pests later.
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Diseases and insects to look out for: • Caterpillars • Aphids • Thrips • Spider mites • Nematodes and soil-borne diseases Combat diseases on leaves, flowers or fruits with fungicides for home garden use. Be sure to remove dead and diseased leaves from the plants to reduce infection. Control powdery mildew with sulfur. Make sure temperatures are cooler than 80 degrees before applying sulfur, or it will cause burns on fruit and foliage.
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Strawberries are ready to harvest when three-quarters of the berry’s surface is red. Once the fruit is completely red, it rots quickly, so be sure to harvest regularly, about every two to four days. SOURCE: University of Florida IFAS Extension, sfyl.ifas.ufl.edu
Facts and figures » Strawberries provide essential nutrients and minerals, including fiber, potassium, vitamin C and powerful antioxidants. » Strawberries must be picked at full ripeness; they cannot ripen once picked.
Carter Coughlin picks strawberries at Farmer Mike’s U-Pick in Bonita Springs.
» Strawberries are the only fruit that have seeds on the outside — about 200 of them! » There are about 8,000 acres of strawberry fields in Florida. » Strawberries taste best at room temperature. SOURCE: Florida Strawberry Growers Association, floridastrawberry.org
SOUTHWEST FLORIDA PARENT & CHILD » MARCH 2019 » 21
» in the kitchen (continued)
Pick your own
Jen Baker hunts for strawberries at a u-pick patch at The Farm in Estero
• 31 Produce, 18672 Street Road 31, Alva, is open 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. daily. Besides picking fresh produce from the fields, visitors can also mine for precious gems and fossils, including shark teeth, amethyst, turquoise, ruby and more. The Cracker Shack Café serves breakfast from 7:30 to 10:30 a.m. and lunch from 11 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. each day. The menu includes fried cat fish, burgers, wraps and breakfast skillets. For more information, call 239-313-8213 or visit 31produce.com. • Farmer Mike’s U-Pick, 26031 Morton Ave., Bonita Springs, is open 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily. Farmer Mike’s spans 40-plus acres with more than 50 crops. Mike Clevenger Sr. and his family manage the farm, which has been a staple in the Bonita community for about 25 years. It closes annually at the end of season, and usually reopens its gates each November. Visitors can pick fresh produce or purchase it from its covered market. The Fresh Harvest Café serves farm-fresh breakfast 9 to 11 a.m. Saturday and Sunday and lunch 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Tuesday through Sunday. The café is closed Monday. For more information, call 239-498-4576 or visit farmermikesupick.com.
22 » MARCH 2019 » SWFLPARENTCHILD.COM
FILE PHOTO
U-pick farms in Southwest Florida give families a chance to get their hands a little dirty. Here are two local farms where you can head out into the fields and harvest your own strawberries to take home:
Strawberry Mango Nachos In this dish, the sweetness of fresh strawberries and juicy mangos combine with the zing of lime and the heat of jalapenos. The result is a tasty treat that bites back just a little. Instead of traditional tortilla chips, use dried apple chips (not the cinnamon or candied kind), to let the salsa flavors shine through. Either dip the chips or pile it all together into nachos. • 4 or 5 whole strawberries • 4 tablespoons simple syrup • 1-2 bags dried apple chips
DIRECTIONS 1. In a medium bowl, combine strawberries, mango, red onion, jalapeno, cilantro, lime juice and salt. Set aside. 2. Place the whole strawberries and simple syrup into the blender and blend into a puree.
INGREDIENTS
• 1 cup diced strawberries (only the deep red parts), ¼-inch cubes • 1 cup peeled and diced mango, ¼-inch cubes • 3 tablespoons finely diced red onion • 1 jalapeno, seeded and finely diced • 3 tablespoons chopped cilantro • Juice of half a lime • Pinch of kosher salt
3. Pour the strawberry puree mixture over the chopped fruit and mix gently until all ingredients are evenly distributed. Add more salt or lime juice to taste. Cover and chill in refrigerator for 30 minutes. 4. Remove from fridge and spoon salsa over the top of dried apple chips. SOURCE: David Williams, chef at Fresh Harvest Cafe
dining out »
Simpler than it sounds
Keke’s Breakfast Cafe has a restaurant in Cape Coral and another coming to Fort Myers. JLB says, while the chain sounds fancy, it is not. And that’s not a bad thing. BY JEAN LE BOEUF
S
canning the menu at Keke’s Breakfast Cafe in Cape Coral, I kept waiting for something to stand out. As I pored over the lists of pancakes, waffles, omelets, panini, salads, I hoped for some must-try dishes to call out to me. But all was quiet. With a name like Keke’s, I guess I expected something — different. Keke’s sounds exotic. It sounds modern. It is not. And that’s not a bad thing. It just took some getting used to. If Keke’s were named Starlight or Big John’s, if it was a diner and not a “breakfast cafe,” then I could have more easily wrapped my head around this place. Because a diner is what Keke’s is: a place serving low-priced classics, many of which taste scratch-made, and all of which are dirt cheap (I say that with love). Keke’s got its start in the Orlando area more than a decade ago. Named for founders and brothers Kevin and Keith Mahen, the chain has grown to 40-some locations from Jacksonville to Gainesville, Tampa and Fort Lauderdale. The Cape Coral store opened in November in the same plaza as Aldi and Five Below on Northeast Pine Island Road. It’s the first in Southwest Florida, with a second opening at the Whole Foods-anchored Daniels Marketplace in south Fort Myers. Keke’s success seems to be rooted in its simplicity. The Cape restaurant reminded me of a First Watch circa 2006. Big, colorful paintings of lemons and strawberries line the walls. There are booths and
Keke’s Breakfast Cafe
sounding “Portobella” omelet featured roasted mushrooms and red peppers wrapped by a thin sheet of eggs. But a thick, rubbery layer of provolone » Location: 1847 NE Pine Island Road, dominated, and a promise of pesto Cape Coral » Price: Average dinner entrée is less than $10 » Online: kekes. turned out to be nothing more than com » Phone: 239-242-0300 » Hours: basil-tinged mayonnaise served in a tiny 7 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. daily » Noise level: cup on the side. Moderate » Etc.: Soft drinks only; kids The eggs Benedict were better, menu; takeout available; breakfast served classic and filling in a well-made all day; lunch served after 10:30 a.m. Hollandaise. The cheeseburger was another classic, and almost as massive banquettes wrapped in burgundy vinyl. as those pancakes. For $7.99 I got two Black granite tops the tables. ¼-pound patties and two slices of Keke’s servers tend to have that cheese. None of it was mind-blowing, diner-style sass, too. One waitress had but with a side of thick-cut potato chips the witty banter down to an art form. included, that’s an impressive bang-toAnother had no qualms telling me I’d buck ratio. ordered waaaay too much food. I just Elsewhere on the lunch menu, there nodded and smiled. It was kind of are salads and wraps, simple BLTs on nice having my gluttony (er, work?) white toast and a cheesesteak-style recognized. panini crammed with griddled roast That’s the other thing about Keke’s: beef, a choice of peppers/mushrooms/ Its portions are gigantic. onions and plenty more provolone (less A $6.99 order of pancakes gets you thick and rubbery this go-round). three of them, each about 2 inches thick My server one lunch missed us for and roughly the size of a medium pizza. refills but was quick with boxes for my It’s more food than any one (or two) many (many!) leftovers. She brought the people should ever consume. And yet check promptly, reminding me to pay at they’re so fluffy, so wonderfully crisp the register by the front door. along the edges that I wouldn’t blame That was another touch that someone for trying. reminded me of First Watch. But while There are waffles, too, and thick that Florida-based breakfast-lunch chain slices of French toast that may be has taken a millennial-ish turn toward stuffed with blueberries and cream avocado toast and cold-brew coffee, cheese, or pecans, caramel and chocolate. Keke’s has stuck to the tired-and-true. But, carbs aside, the wows here are Did I say tired? I meant tried-and-true. few. I think. A so-called “breakfast salad” piqued — Jean Le Boeuf is the pseudonym my interest, till I realized it was just a used by a local food lover who dines at restaurants anonymously and parfait (granola, yogurt, honey, fruit — without warning, with meals paid for c’mon Keke’s). by The News-Press. Follow the critic at And my omelets have fallen flat, facebook.com/jeanleboeufswfl or @ literally and figuratively. An intriguing JeanLeBoeuf on Twitter and Instagram.
SOUTHWEST FLORIDA PARENT & CHILD » MARCH 2019 » 23
« special event
BE MY NEIGHBOR
WGCU plans Be My Neighbor Day event for families. SPECIAL TO SW FL PARENT & CHILD
K
ids and their families can explore what could be called a pop-up town Saturday, March 30 at WGCU Public Media on the Florida Gulf Coast University campus. Taking a cue from their old friend Mister Rogers, WGCU invites Southwest Florida kids to a free “Be My Neighbor” day. There, families will find games, activities, giveaways and more in three neighborhoods: Meet the Helpers, Science and Environment, and Education and Creativity. Each area will have a PBS VIP. Meeting and greeting the new kids on their blocks that day will be Daniel Tiger, Nature Cat and Princess Presto from “Super Why.”
IF YOU GO
Be My Neighbor Day
• When: 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, March 30 • Where: WGCU Myra Janco Daniels Public Media Center, FGCU, 10501 S. FGCU Blvd., Fort Myers • Cost: Free • Details: 239-590-2510 or wgcu.com/ events
Joining the characters are more than two dozen groups, stationed in the appropriate neighborhoods. In Meet the Helpers, visitors chat with folks from police and fire, plus a pediatric ambulance and dental practice. Science and Environment folks come from Zoomers and Sky Zone, plus the Conservancy of Southwest Florida,
Vicky C. and David Byron Smith Children’s Garden
239.643.7275 24 » MARCH 2019 » SWFLPARENTCHILD.COM
IMAG History and Science Center, Pure Florida and Rookery Bay National Estuarine Research Preserve. The Education and Creativity neighborhood is full of exhibitors from arts organizations, schools and clubs, plus the Southwest Florida Symphony Sound Lab, Mathnasium, and the Lee and Collier county libraries. Hours are 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. WGCU’s Myra Janco Daniels Public Media Center is at FGCU, 10501 S. FGCU Blvd., Fort Myers. Go to wgcu.com/ events for more information or call 239590-2510. WGCU is a member-supported service of Florida Gulf Coast University.
kid stuff »
Training little chefs
T
Fort Myers business teaches children how to bake and cook with a variety of techniques. BY ANDREA STETSON
he television shows “Chopped Junior” and “Kids Baking Championship” and this year’s Sunshine State book “Lights, Camera, Cook!” are bringing kids into the kitchen at all new levels. Some local children are not only obsessed with Colton Wagner, 9, Myah Thoman, 10, and Kylee King, 8, make a this, but they want to head graham cracker crust for their tort during a class at Little Chefs in to the kitchen for baking, Training in Fort Myers. broiling, grilling, stewing, “We do a lot of pastas,” part,” Lauren says. “Baking frying, steaming and other Lauren says. “We did a is definitely a favorite. We sophisticated techniques. poultry series this month. We do a lot of tart classes, cakes, Many are getting help from are doing a sauces series. We cookies.” Little Chefs In Training in do the whole gamut, so it is a The youngest group of 5Fort Myers. lot of fun.” Lauren Daniels opened the to 7-year-olds earn badges as She also holds kid cooking business a year and a half ago, they learn about eggs, veggies and soups. The 8- to 10-yearcompetitions for birthday and she aims to teach even olds enjoy baking things like parties, and on some Fridays, very young children to cook. torts and cookies. Teenagers kids compete just like on “All the kids love it, work on more complex meals. television. especially the competition
Little Chefs in Training Where:10970 S. Cleveland Ave., Unit 103, Fort Myers
When: Ages 5-8 meet at
4:30 p.m. Mondays. Ages 8-10 go at 5:30 p.m. Tuesdays. Ages 11-13 have class at 5:30 p.m. Wednesdays. Ages 13-16 at 11 a.m. Saturdays. Other classes vary by month. There are also single-session classes on specific cooking topics.
Cost: For ages 5-8, four classes cost $125. For ages 8-13, it’s $135 for four classes. For teen classes, prices vary depending on activity. Single cooking classes range in price from $20 to $40. Phone: 239-362-2115 Online:
littlechefsntraining.com
SOUTHWEST FLORIDA PARENT & CHILD » MARCH 2019 » 25
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» kid stuff (continued) “We actually do ‘Chopped,’” Lauren says, referring to the popular television show. “The kids break off in teams. They have their baskets with the ingredients. They have a theme, like Italian or Asian. They are given an hour, and they just go at it, and then me and somebody else are the judges.” It was a bit calmer on a recent evening when four children enjoyed the sweet and savory tarts series by making a s’mores tart. They learned how to make the graham cracker crust, how to separate eggs, and they got to use the torch to heat their marshmallows. “I like to cook cookies, cake and cupcakes,” says Myah Thoman, 10. “I know how to make those the best.” Myah says she loves watching all the cooking shows. “My favorite is ‘Worst Cooks in America,’ because it is really funny,” she says. “I also like ‘Great Baking Championship’ and ‘Guy’s Grocery Games.’” Her mother, Laura, is happy Myah participated in the Little Chef’s series. “She loves cooking,” Laura says. “She is obsessed. We bake all the time at home.” Kylee King, 8, says her favorite cooking show is “Nailed It.” She loves to make chocolate cake and wants to learn to be a better cook. “I want to be a chef and a vet,” Kylee says. Shya Ruiz, 11, wants to be a bakery chef. “I like baking sweets,” she says. Colton Wagner, 9, just decided that baking was his new interest, and his mother is happy about the choice. “I don’t cook,” says his mom, Kimberly Geselbracht, “We do a lot of fruits and veggies, and if we want to go eat something, we eat out. So when he said he wants to cook, I thought if he wants to cook, cook on.” Colton already knows the first thing he wants to create for his mother. “Maybe a fruit salad,” he says shyly. Little Chefs In Training has four-week sessions with children divided by age group. There are also single sessions on specific topics, such as crepes, cake decorating, Asian cuisine, projector cookie tracing and more. Lauren also holds many Friday night team “Chopped” challenges. Lauren says all the children do very well in her kitchen. “Kids — you think they don’t know what to do when they get in the kitchen, but they have the instincts,” she says. “They are naturally creative, so it is pretty natural for them to pick up.”
teens »
SET BY ANDREA STETSON
TO SCORE
Beach volleyball is gaining popularity among teens at the Midtown Beach Sports Complex in Fort Myers.
If you go At the Midtown Beach Sports Complex in Fort Myers, leagues play 6 to 9 p.m. Monday through Thursday. There are doubles, triples, quad, boys, girls and coed. There’s also drop-in volleyball 8 a.m. to noon on Sundays.
Where: 2277 Grand Ave., Fort Myers Cost: Cape Fear volleyball club prices vary from a $20 three-hour clinic to $500 for a four-month program to $1,500 for six months of traveling/club team.
To learn more about the complex:
239-321-7514 or cityftmyers.com/ Facilities/Facility/Details/Midtown-BeachSports-Complex-71
To learn more about Cape Fear:
Call Cody at 239-887-1997, email vballcoiachcody@gmail.com or visit capefearvb.com
I
t’s a much softer landing when the players dive for the ball in the sand. But it’s the comradery and workout that the teenagers say they enjoy most. More than 70 girls play beach volleyball at the Midtown Beach Sports Complex in Fort Myers as part of the Cape Fear volleyball club. Even more teens dive into the sand there as part of local high school teams or during pick-up games. “Sand volleyball is healthier on your body than indoors,” says Cody Dunn, director of coaching for Cape Fear. “The next level is there now. You can go to college on scholarship. You can play around the world. It is a lot bigger now.” Misty May-Treanor and Kerri Walsh Jennings brought attention to beach volleyball when they won Olympic gold medals in Athens in 2004, Beijing in 2008 and London in 2012. “A lot of these kids don’t even know that,” Cody says. “They just like it. It’s a blast. It’s fun to get out there on the beach and get better at it.”
SOUTHWEST FLORIDA PARENT & CHILD » MARCH 2019 » 27
PHOTO BY ANDREA STETSON
« teens (continued)
Teenagers with Cape Fear volleyball practice drills at Midtown Beach Sports Complex in Fort Myers.
Beach volleyball is different from indoors. Cape Fear mostly plays with two players on a team instead of six. “Obviously it’s sand, so it is easier on your body, but it is harder to get around,” Cody says. “The courts are a little smaller. It is way more difficult if you are not used to the sand. Beach volleyball is more of a cerebral game. There is a lot of court and only two people, so you can place the ball. It is a lot more of a thinking game than indoors.” Many of the players have played indoor volleyball for years and added beach volleyball about a year ago. “I like that you can dive whenever you want because it is soft,” says Alysa Wusterbarth, 16. “It’s fun. You meet a lot of new people, and you can improve your skills for indoor or whatever sport you play.” “I like our practices because the coaches make it wicked fun,” says Riley Dossantos, 14. “It’s really fun to play with my team. It gets us ready for indoor, keeping you in shape.” “I think it is something different from every other sport,” adds Nayeliz Ramirez, 15. “I like it better because it is more of a team. I feel more united with other people. I think it is a way to meet new people and find a sport to play.” Cape Fear is for teens 12 to 18 years old, but there are also other leagues and teams that play at the Midtown Beach Sports Complex. Cody has plans for summer programs and tournaments, too. “I want to get beach volleyball relevant in Southwest Florida,” Cody says. Adam Lightfoot, athletic program coordinator for the city of Fort Myers, says the complex used to be a skateboard park, but it was rarely used and the city was looking for something that would be more popular with teenagers. The Midtown Beach Sports Complex opened in July 2017. The 15,000-square-foot facility has three courts with more than 1,200 tons of premium sand. It also has shaded viewer seating. “The word has gotten out,” Adam says. “We were like a little secret when we first opened. People are enjoying it.”
28 » MARCH 2019 » SWFLPARENTCHILD.COM
spotlight »
WHAT SUE GREW Sue Moore is the birder who planted the seed for the Children’s Garden at Lakes Park. She turns 80 this month. BY ANDREA STETSON
O
n a raised bed of dirt are the letters of the alphabet and a plant for each letter: from aloe to zucchini. The alphabet garden at Lakes Regional Park is one of the highlights of the Children’s Garden there, and its existence is due to the tireless efforts of Sue Moore. The tells of Parkinson’s disease
barely show, as Sue moves around the garden rattling off information about what is there now, and her big plans for its future. The Children’s Garden at Lakes Park is not the only achievement for Sue who has volunteered more than 1,000 hours at the park over the past 20 years. She has given guided bird tours, helped establish the yearly Bird Fest,
established the annual Scarecrows in the Park fundraiser and became a board member of the Lakes Park Enrichment Foundation. She took gardening classes and began helping in the gardens. She volunteered in the Fragrance Garden and the Community Garden. Five years ago, she began her most ambitious project of creating the Children’s Garden.
PHOTOS BY AMANDA INSCORE
Sue Moore started the Children’s Garden in Lakes Park.
SOUTHWEST FLORIDA PARENT & CHILD » MARCH 2019 » 29
« spotlight (continued) “The inspiration for this came when I attended several garden meetings,” Sue explains. “I heard about children’s gardens, and we have a park that attracts all kinds of children. Most botanic gardens have to really work to get the children to come, and they are here. So I thought we should really think about a children’s garden.” Now the 2-acre Children’s Garden has the alphabet area of vegetables and herbs, a pollination station, butterfly garden, flowers and a storybook walk. Sue is working on plans to add an educational pavilion for story time and programs. “We have planned a learning grove under the big elm tree,” she says. “This is the biggest elm tree in Lee County. It is at least 100 years old.” She also has a dream of creating a giant sun and Earth sculpture to encourage children and their parents to care for the planet. “We don’t think about the fact that we are a speck in space going around the sun, and that is a concept that is important to give to everyone on Earth,” Sue says. “We are a speck, but it is our speck. It is where we live, and we have to visualize that we are just a miniscule particle of the universe. We have to take care of it.” To help children visualize this, she wants to create a giant sun with the seven colors of light and Earth circling it. “That will be here in the garden to remind us that we have to take care of our Earth and we are poisoning our Earth now,” she says. “The biggest construction will be the sun garden, because I want it to be visible from the playground, so people will see it and say, ‘Oh, what is that? I want to see it.’” Erin White, the executive director of the Lakes Park Enrichment Foundation, says Sue is an inspiration. “She is considered the visionary of the foundation,” Erin says. “It has been her fondest desire for many years to have a place in Lakes Park where families can go and not only play but learn. She’s absolutely incredible. Her level of dedication has not waned despite her physical challenges.”
30 » MARCH 2019 » SWFLPARENTCHILD.COM
PARTY FOR SUE
• A public celebration of Sue Moore’s 80th birthday is planned for 1 to 3 p.m. Saturday, March 30 at Lakes Regional Park. In lieu of gifts, Sue asks donations to be made to the Lakes Park Enrichment Foundation, lakesparkenrichmentfoundation.org.
Being a part of children’s lives isn’t new for Sue. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University with a degree in English literature and taught English in junior high and high school. She and her husband, Frank, have four children and five grandchildren. Yet Sue never planned to be ensconced in a children’s garden. She says she was not a gardener, but a birder. She and Frank moved to Fort Myers from Binghamton, New York, in 1998. “I was a very dedicated birder at that time, and I wandered in here not knowing what was here,” she says. When she saw all the birds, she offered to give bird tours at the park. That was the beginning of her love of Lakes Park. “When they got serious about the botanical garden, I helped plan the Community Garden,” she says. “The Community Garden is one of the most successful of the community gardens in
Florida.” Wearing hot pink pants, a lighter pink sweater and a wide-brimmed hat ribboned with pink flowers and a pink bow, Sue moves confidently around the Children’s Garden. She says being active in the garden has helped keep her healthy. When she had a stroke many years ago and was diagnosed with Parkinson’s, she had to give up flying the small planes she loved to pilot. “Having an interest has kept me going,” she says. “This is my ministry. God wants this children’s garden to be built, and he wants me to do it, and with his help, it will be done.” A party for her 80th birthday will be held in Lakes Park from 1 to 3 p.m. on March 30. In lieu of gifts, Sue is asking for donations to the Lakes Park Enrichment Foundation. “I am hoping to get lots of people to come and to make donations to the gardens,” she says.
summer camps »
HOW TO
SAVE MONEY ON SUMMER
CAMP Scholarships help families afford to send their children to summer camp — even the super exciting, high-demand ones. BY ANDREA STETSON
SOUTHWEST FLORIDA PARENT & CHILD » MARCH 2019 » 31
T
he camps look and sound amazing. There are encounters with animals or sea creatures, or acting, art, swimming, technology and more. Then there’s the price tag. One look and the dream of that super summer camp is gone. But it does not have to be that way. Many camps, from the most traditional to the fancier specialty camps, have both full and partial scholarships, making camp accessible to almost every child.
The Sanibel Sea School offers deluxe summer camps at their Sanibel campus, Sundial Beach Resort & Spa, and the Canterbury School in Fort Myers. “Our days are spent in, on or near the water having unique, hands-on ocean experiences,” says Leah Biery, director of communications. “Campers can expect surfing, snorkeling, dissections and more.” The cost is $350 per week with some of the teenage camps costing a bit more. But those who can’t afford it, can still go. There are full and partial scholarships. “If they request scholarships, they get them in some form,” Leah says. “We try to meet every request for scholarships. We don’t believe that financial circumstances should prevent anyone from learning about the ocean. We want more people to learn about our scholarships.” A few examples of this year’s themes are Hermit Crab Shell-a-bration Week for ages 4-6, Mega Megalodon Week for ages 6-13, coral reef expeditions to Belize and the Florida Keys for teens, and new camping and paddling programs for older campers. There is also a Counselor in Training Program for teens ages 13-18. At the Conservancy of Southwest Florida, campers delve into nature at the nature center and on field trips to the beach, swamps and other local habitats. There are three themes this summer, including open ocean, shallow estuary and land habitat. Cheryl Latif, education programs administrator, says there are scholarships available on a first–come, first– served basis. “In order to qualify, the child has to receive free or
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reduced lunch in either Collier or Lee County,” Cheryl says. “We don’t have to go into backgrounds.” Cheryl says the Conservancy offers about 16 to 18 one-week scholarships, but usually gets a grant for another 65 scholarships. She is hoping to secure the grant again this year. “It gives these children a chance to do things they normally don’t get to do,” Cheryl says. “It is a great experience for our campers. We have children that have never been to the beach, and here they are living in a coastal city.” Miranda Galvan says her son Jayden, 10, has had a scholarship for a week at summer camp at the Conservancy since he was in first grade. “We’ve tried a few others in the past, and this one is just more exciting,” she says. “He does way more and learns so much more in this camp than other camps.” Miranda says the scholarship is very helpful. “I have three kids, going on four, so it is very hard to come up with the prices for these summer camps, so it helps tremendously,” she says. “It is quick, and it’s simple. Compared to other places where you have to have so much proof, this is simple.” Miranda hopes other people learn about the scholarships and apply. There is everything from filmmaking, water wizardry and video game development to 3-D art and design, river ecology, chemistry and robotics in the Edison and Ford Winter Estates summer camp program. These specialized camps can be costly, but Lisa Wilson, the Estates’ marketing director, says for one or two lucky children, it’s free.
summer camps (continued) »
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“Our days are spent in, on or near the water having unique, hands-on ocean experiences. Campers can expect surfing, snorkeling, dissections and more.” — LEAH BIERY, DIRECTOR OF COMMUNICATIONS, SANIBEL SEA SCHOOL
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« summer camps (continued)
“Typically we only offer one or two scholarships for summer camp,” Lisa says. “We get the money in part from donations, and the rest is money from ticket sales and events. We understand that sometimes some families may not be able to afford it, and we like to be able to offer one or two and let a child that otherwise would not be able to purchase a space to come here and experience camp.” The scholarships are based on financial need. “They apply, and we look at who needed it most,” she says. “Our camps are very educational. They will have a very educational experience. It might even pave the way for their career down the road.” County parks have some of the best prices for summer camp. In Lee County you’ll find traditional day camps at the Karl J. Drews, Boca Grande, Matlacha and Olga community centers, the Estero, North Fort Myers, Veterans Park and Wake Hatchee recreation centers, Lakes Regional Park, Manatee Park, Six Mile Cypress Slough Interpretive Center, and at the county pools in Lehigh Acres, North Fort Myers, Pine Island and San Carlos Park. The camps feature water activities, creative activities, sports, field trips, guest speakers and more.
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There are also some specialty camps at select parks. Camps cost $75 per week, and there are scholarships available. “Typically, staff refers parents to the local Kiwanis and/or Rotary Clubs that offer scholarships,” says Tim Engstrom, a spokesman for Lee County. Collier County offers summer camps at all its community parks. Parents who pay for nine weeks get a discounted price of $66 per week. The regular weekly cost is $85. “If you are in need of full-day day camp and can’t afford it, there are scholarships,” says Patricia Rosen, senior program leader for Collier County Parks and Recreation. There is a summer arts camp for children and a musical theater intensive camp for teens at the Alliance for the Arts in Fort Myers. “We are one of the few camps with both visual and performing arts,” says Brandi Couse, assistant director overseeing education. Camps cost $160 per week for members and $200 for non-members. “We offer around 50 scholarships, full or partial,” Brandi says. “They are for one week, so we can offer them to as many kids as possible.”
HOW TO
APPLY
Like a camp mentioned in our story?
Here are the details and contact information to find out more about the organizations’ scholarships. (Cost listed is regular tuition and does not reflect scholarship.)
Sanibel Sea School • Dates: June 3 to August 9 • Locations: Sanibel Campus, Sundial Beach Resort & Spa, and Canterbury School in Fort Myers. • Ages: 4-18 • Cost: $320 per week; $345 at Sundial includes lunch; some teen weeks a bit higher • For details: 239-4728585, sanibel@sanibelseaschool.org or sanibelseaschool.org • For scholarship information: info@sanibelseaschool.org
Conservancy of Southwest Florida • Dates: June 10 to August 2 (no camp the week of July 4) • Location: 1495 Smith Preserve Way, Naples • Ages: 6-15 • Cost: $255 to $305 per week • For details: 239-262-0304 or conservancy. org
Edison and Ford Winter Estates • Dates: June 3 to August 9 • Location: 2350 McGregor Blvd., Fort Myers • Ages: 6-12 • Cost: $220 to $495 • For
details: edisonfordwinterestates.org/ education/camps
10091 McGregor Blvd., Fort Myers • Ages: Grades 1-12 • Cost: $160 per week for members; $200 for nonmembers. Family membership is $80 for the year. • For details: 239-939-2787 or artinlee.org/education/summercamp
Lee County Parks and Recreation • Dates: June 5 to July 28 • Locations: At numerous parks and recreation centers throughout Lee County • Ages: 6-13 (special needs camps, ages 12-21) • Cost: $75 per week • For details: 239533-7440 or leegov.com/parks/programs/ summer
Collier County Parks and Recreation • Dates: June 3 to August 9 • Locations: At numerous parks and recreation centers throughout Collier County • Ages: 5-13 • Cost: $85 per week; $66 per week for full summer • For details: colliercountyfl.gov/i-wantto/find/parks-programs
Centers for the Arts Bonita Springs • Dates: May 31 to August 12 • Locations: 10150 Bonita Beach Road and 26100 Old 41 Road, Bonita Springs • Ages: 4-18 • Cost: From $140 for a morning or afternoon camp to $28 for one-day camps to $420 for the three-week camp (the most expensive). • For details: 239-495-8989 or artcenterbonita.org/youth
Everglades Wonder Gardens
Alliance for the Arts • Dates: June 3 to August 2 • Location:
• Dates: June 10 to July 26 (no camp week of July 4) • Location: 27180 Old 41 Road, Bonita Springs • Ages: 7-11 • Cost: $150 per week • For details: 239-992-2591 or evergladeswondergardens.co
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« summer camps (continued)
The Centers for the Arts Bonita Springs offers camps in visual arts, performing arts, dance, music, cooking, science and technology. Most of the camps are one week, but there are some two-week mini musical camps and a three-week theater camp. Prices range from $140 for a half day one-week camp to $420 for the threeweek camp. “About 90 percent of applicants will receive a scholarship or discount for 10 to 90 percent,” says Heather Roper, youth education director. “Anybody can apply. It is super helpful for families, especially if they have multiple children or want many camps throughout the summer.” Belle Mazarra, 8, just loves the summer camp at the Centers for the Arts Bonita Springs, and she can go all summer because of scholarships. “We were able to take advantage for the scholarship for summer camp and dance,” says her mother, Teresa Mazzara. “I am a single parent. The arts are very important to me and very important to her. Last summer she went for the entire summer, and I was able to use a scholarship for that. She absolutely loved it. Everybody I know that went there had some portion covered by scholarship.” Most of the children at the Everglades Wonder Gardens summer camp go for
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free. Each week there are 15 campers and 10 of them get scholarships for the camp that would normally cost $150 for five days. “We just got a $15,000 grant to cover eco camps,” says Thomas Hecker, executive director. “The Bonita Assistance office helps us determine who is needy for camp, because it is impossible for us to determine who really needs the scholarship.” Children at the camp get a lot of handson experiences with butterfly gardening, feeding animals, creating zoo plans and designs. “Every day there is interaction with the wildlife,” Hecker says. He is excited to be able to give out so many scholarships this summer. “I know a lot of these kids would not have an opportunity to be in nature, and this gives them an opportunity to be in nature,” Hecker says. “I like to provide for the children that are local to have the opportunity to be in nature.” There are many more summer camps in Southwest Florida that offer a limited number of scholarships. Everything from the YMCA to music camps to technology camps have some partial or full scholarships. So check for scholarship possibilities before you eliminate a camp just because you see the price tag.
2 MORE MONEYSAVING TIPS In addition to scholarships, here are a couple more ways to save: Membership has its privileges: If
an organization offers lower prices to members, consider investing in a membership. Often the savings will pay for the cost after two or three weeks of camp, plus you’ll have access to perks there all year long.
Sibling discount:
Ask if the organization offers a sibling discount. Many will lower tuition when a family enrolls more than one child.
cover story »
Old Datsun Trail & Eagle Point Trail
GREAT HIKES T PHO
YA OS B
DA MAN
INSC
ORE
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« cover story (continued)
etting out into nature does a body — and mind — a world of good. Studies back it up. They’re “forest bathing” in Japan. But you don’t need that to tell you spending time in nature is good for you. Just take your kids to one of these trails, let them run around, breathe in the fresh air and have fun. Then see how quickly they fall asleep on the way home. Many of these recommendations come from photographer Amanda Inscore, who set out to see how many trails she and her boys, ages 3 and 6, could explore in Southwest Florida. We also solicited the help of journalist Amy Bennett Williams, an environmental reporter and storyteller for The News-Press. Bonus: She’s a mom, too.
Here are 10 fun trails to take your family into the great outdoors and benefit from Mother Nature’s medicine.
Old Datsun Trail & Eagle Point Trail Both trails are part of a larger trail system within the Charlotte Harbor Preserve State Park. They’re considered “primitive” trails — there is no boardwalk, no paved paths, just bare earth winding through the wilderness. But these trails are completely doable for kids. And much of the journey is shaded. Amanda’s boys loved looking for the trail markers and counting them along the way. On the Eagle Point Trail, there’s a bird blind with one-way glass where you can watch various birds at feeders. Identification guides help you figure out what’s what. • Where: Both trailheads are near each other on the west side of Burnt Store Road just south of U.S. 41 in Punta Gorda. Old Datsun is the one farthest south at 12001 Burnt Store Road. Eagle Point is near the Charlotte Harbor Environmental Center, 12301 Burnt Store Road, Punta Gorda. • Length: Old Datsun is 1.75 miles and Eagle Point about 1 mile. • Type: Loop • Cost: Free • What you might see: Massive oak trees, sabal palms, wetlands; possible wildlife includes butterflies, eagles, hawks, wild boar.
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• Caution: There are no restrooms here (though there is one at the nature center near the Eagle Point Trail, hours 8 a.m.-3 p.m. MondaySaturday). Also, the trail often floods after big rainstorms and during the summer rainy season. And we highly recommend taking a map with you and plenty of water. • Tips: Follow the arrow markers to stay on trail (Eagle Point markers are red). • Online: checflorida.org and stateparks.com/charlotte_harbor_ state_park_in_florida.html • Park phone: 941-575-5816
Pond Apple Park Trail Just across the Sanibel Causeway, near the entrance to the island, is a hidden gem. The Pond Apple Park Trail takes visitors into a shady, serene escape that lets you see the island as it used to be. Walk through tropical hardwood forest, pine flatwoods, wetland forest and open water habitats. The trail connects to the Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation’s Shipley Trail and one of Sanibel’s earliest houses, the Bailey Homestead. • Where: The trail begins at the parking lot of the Sanibel Island & Captiva Island Chamber of Commerce, 1159 Causeway Road, Sanibel.
• Caution: There are no restrooms at the park or along the trails. However, restrooms and water are available at the Chamber building during operating hours.
• Length: 1.6 miles
• Tips: The Bailey Homestead Preserve is home to the SCCF’s Native Landscape & Garden Center, 1300 Periwinkle Way, where you can learn how to make your own yard Floridafriendly.
• Type: Linear with small loop at the end • Cost: Free • What you might see: Sea grape trees, eagles, wood storks, alligators, otters, maybe even a bobcat.
• Online: mysanibel.com for Pond Apple Park and sccf.org for the Baily Homestead Preserve
CREW Marsh Trails Take a hike in panther territory. The Corkscrew Regional Ecosystem Watershed is where The News-Press photographer Andrew West has captured amazing images of Florida panthers via camera trap. While technically, you could run into a panther, too, it’s highly unlikely; they’re very shy. But you might see tracks or scat. The best bet for a family-friendly trail is the CREW Marsh Trails, several interconnecting loop trails that total 5.5 miles. You can take just one small loop or walk every inch. To go straight from the parking lot to the observation tower and back is 1.34 miles. Most trails are wide and flat, but some farther east get narrow and may have exposed roots (which only add to the wild experience). There’s also a sizeable pavilion for picnic lunches about a half mile from the parking lot. Looking for longer hikes? The CREW Land and Water Trust has several options, and they provide great detailed information on their website. • Where: 4600 CR 850 (Corkscrew Road), Immokalee (enter the full address or it will take you to Koreshan State Park) • Length: Up to 5.5 miles • Type: Loop • Cost: A donation of a few dollars is requested via the honor system at the trailhead. • What you might see: Pine flatwoods, oak hammocks, pop ash slough and 5,000-acre sawgrass marsh; wildlife include swallow tailed kites, woodpeckers, hawks and owls. While this is panther territory, you’re unlikely to see these shy, elusive animals. • Caution: Be aware of possible wildlife. Bring water and plan to take any trash out with you as there are no trash cans along the trails. Toilet is a port-o-potty type. • Tips: Free downloadable trail guides and education materials are available on the CREW website. Open sunrise to sunset seven days a week. Dogs allowed on leash. Try geocaching here. • Online: crewtrust.org/crew-marsh-trails
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« cover story (continued)
West Main Tram Trail Fakahatchee Strand Preserve State Park is home to more native orchid species than in any other place in North America, according to the state. Its trails are cleared tram roads created by logging in the 1940s, '50s and '60s, so it’s easy walking. The West Main Tram passes through 2 miles of strand swamp before opening into a marle prairie. Or for a shorter walk, stroll along the 2,500-foot Big Cypress Bend Boardwalk to the alligator pond and observation deck.
Hickey Creek Trail Think Florida is utterly flat? Check out Hickey’s Creek Mitigation Park. Amanda’s kids loved the “ups and downs” along the trail. There are also two bridges that go over Hickey’s Creek, part of The Great Calusa Blueway Paddling Trail. Hickey Creek Trail is the shortest hike at 1.8 miles. Two additional trails branch off this one. • Where: 17980 Palm Beach Blvd., Alva
and a variety of birds.
• Length: 1.8 miles
• Caution: Beware wildlife; although rare, panthers have been documented in the area.
• Type: Loop • Cost: Parking is $1 per hour or $5 per day; Lee County annual parking stickers accepted • What you might see: Gopher tortoises, Florida panthers (again, probably not; they’re super shy), bobcats, eastern indigo snakes, alligators, otters
• Tips: There’s a canoe/kayak launch and fishing pier. Plus, there are restrooms, picnic areas and an amphitheater. • Online: leegov.com/conservation2020/ preserves • Phone: 239-694-0398
• Where: 137 Coastline Drive, Copeland, for West Main Tram; access the boardwalk off U.S. 41, about 7 miles west of State Road 29. • Length: 2-3 miles for West Main Tram; half mile for the boardwalk. • Type: Linear • Cost: $3 per vehicle; pay stations at visitors’ center and East River canoe launch • What you might see: Orchids, ferns, bromeliads, alligators, deer, black bear, bobcats, red-shouldered hawks, turkeys, barred owls. Maybe even a Florida panther or Everglades mink. The American Crocodile and West Indian Manatee can be found at the southern end. • Caution: Insect repellent might be necessary. • Tips: The more adventurous families might consider a guided swamp walk. The less adventurous can drive along Janes Scenic Drive. • Online: floridastateparks.org/ parks-and-trails/fakahatcheestrand-preserve-state-park • Phone: 239-695-4593
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Corkscrew Boardwalk The Audubon Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary has a 2.25-mile boardwalk that meanders through environments you’ve seen elsewhere, but then it takes you into the largest old growth bald cypress forest in North America, where the trees tower 130 feet and have a girth of some 25 feet. The size of these enormous, 600--year-old trees may just make even your chattiest child go silent.
Caloosahatchee Regional Park Amy Williams, of The News-Press’ Tropicalia Sunday magazine and an expert in outdoor things to do in Southwest Florida, recommends Caloosahatchee Regional Park for a family hike. She says there are good trails on both sides. On the north side, known for mountain biking and equestrian trails, there’s more variation in the geography with hills. On the south side, you’ll find camping and family-friendly trail loops. The park has more than 20 miles of trails total. • Where: 18500 North River Road, Alva, for the south side and access to the overlook and fishing pier (there are two other entrances, one for the north side and the other for the camping area) • Length: Oxbow Trail Loop is .85 miles with a .13-mile ADA-accessible trail to the overlook; River Hammock Trail Loop is 1.2 miles; Shoreline Trail, half a mile; Pine Flatwoods Trail Loop (accessible from Oxbow) is .95 miles, and then from there, the Saw Palmetto Trail Loop (shared with equestrians) is .7 miles.
Gunner's Trail This trail through Wild Turkey Strand Preserve is where Amanda started the “Find the Trail Markers” game. And the kids loved it. It kept them engaged throughout the hike. They also found lots of snail shells. This preserve is the third largest of the Conservation 20/20 lands in Lee County. There are some very swampy areas with cypress strands and freshwater marshes. It was home to the Buckingham Army Air Field, a U.S. military training base in the 1940s. Some structures remain and there are signs pointing them out. • Where: 11901 Rod and Gun Club Road, Fort Myers (just south of Lehigh Acres on the west side of State Road 82) • Length: 1.8 miles (.7 miles handicapped accessible) • Type: Loop • Cost: Free • What you might see: Orchids, water lilies, columned stinkhorn (yes, it stinks), swamps, marshes, abandoned pastures, snail kite, alligators, deer, armadillo, bobcats, tortoises,
turtles • Caution: During the rainy season, some parts of the trail may be underwater. Also, part of the trail is paved, much of the rustic portion is not ADA accessible. • Tips: Restroom and picnic pavilion available in the parking lot. A schedule of guided walks is available online; next one is Saturday, March 23. • Online: leegov.com/ conservation2020/preserves • Phone: 239-707-8251
• Type: Loop • Cost: Parking fee is $1 per hour or $5 per day • What you might see: Pine flatwoods, scrub oak, cypress swamps, oak hammocks and various wildlife. • Caution: Foot traffic is not advised on the north side; if you venture there, be aware of cyclists and horses. • Tips: Kayak rentals and camping available. Restroom available. • Online: leegov.com/parks/parks/crp • Phone: 239-694-0398
• Where: 375 Sanctuary Road, Naples • Length: 2.25 miles (short cut available) • Type: Loop • Cost: $14 for adults, $10 for members, $6 for college
students with ID, $4 for ages 6-18, free for children younger than 6
species of birds. It’s also home to the Florida panther and Florida black bear.
• What you might see: 600-year-old cypress trees, maybe even the rare super ghost orchid, alligators, wood storks and numerous other
• Caution: Last admission to the boardwalk is at 4:30 p.m. • Tips: Admission is good for two back-to-back days. Guided walks are included
with admission. Water, bug spray and binoculars recommended (binocular rentals available in the visitor center).Strollers also available. • Online: corkscrew. audubon.org • Phone: 239-348-9151
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« cover story (continued)
Myakka Trail Did you see the cover photo of a boy walking across a suspension bridge in the trees? That was taken in Myakka River State Park. While this park is a little farther north than the others on our list, it is worth the drive. Alligators are abundant, there are pontoon boat tours, a place to eat lunch and get ice cream, decent restrooms, a playground, lots of picnic areas, great trails and a walkway up in the trees, massive live oaks dripping in bromeliads and resurrection ferns. You can even rent a cabin here or camp. The Myakka Trail consists of 38.9 miles of loop trails, so you can make your outings very short or super long. The Myakka River Canopy Walk is the first public treetop trail in North America, according to the state. The suspended walkway takes you through the treetops 25 feet off the ground and to a 74-foot observation platform where you can climb higher and look down on it all, including the eagles, hawks and vultures.
• Where: 13208 State Road 72, Sarasota
ages 3-12 and free for the littles.
• Length: Canopy Walk and adjoining William S. Boylston Nature Trail is .8 miles, according to floridahikes.com; trails total 38.9 miles
• What you might see: Alligators (big ones), various birds, large oaks, ferns and cabbage palms.
• Type: Loop • Cost: $6 per vehicle for entry into the park; boat tours are $20 for adults, $12 for
• Caution: Watch your little ones and don’t let them play by the water’s edge. You’re in gator territory here. • Tips: The state says ideal
Calusa Heritage Trail This short trail — just under a mile long — packs a lot of awe. The trail at Randell Research Center at Pineland takes families through the mounds, canals and other features of the Pine Island archaeological site. To stand on the top of the tallest shell mound and look out at the sound is inspiring, and the whole family will enjoy learning about the Calusa.
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• Where: 13810 Waterfront Drive, Pineland • Length: 0.9 mile • Type: Loop • Cost: Requested donation of $7 for adults, $4 for children • What you might see: Shell mounds created by the Calusa, artifacts and interpretive signs.
hiking times here are late fall, winter and early spring. They also recommend you carry water, a map and compass or GPS and wear sturdy footwear. Maps are available at the ranger station. • Online: floridastateparks. org/parks-and-trails/myakkariver-state-park • Phone: 941-361-6511
• Caution: Gnats can be bothersome in summer. Hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, insect repellent and water recommended. • Tips: Public restrooms and picnic facilities available. Plus, there’s a gift shop. • Online: floridamuseum.ufl.edu/ rrc/visit/trail • Phone: 239-283-2062
safety corner » LT. L A R RY K ING
No. 1 way to protect teen drivers Experience is vital in preventing traffic crashes among young drivers.
T
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he No. 1 cause of death among teenagers, ages 15-19, is traffic crashes. More than shooting deaths, overdoses, suicides, etc. This has long been the case nationally for decades, yet we see no public outrage, no rush to action or community public relations campaign touted by a celebrity to raise awareness. If one believes the assertion all traffic crashes are preventable, then we are left to wonder why the complacency. In Lee County, preliminary data indicates an average of 10 teens have been killed in crashes annually over the past 5 years. Some of those killed were mere passengers, others as the driver behind the steering wheel. We can attribute these tragic deaths to a myriad of reasons, but the biggest is experience. It’s the one consistent factor in most teen crashes overall. That’s why parents need to encourage, support and take time to ensure that their teens drive, drive, drive! Time behind the wheel is how they learn the dynamics of the vehicle they drive. How they manage their phone, radio and the biggest distraction of all: passengers (or even just one passenger). Yes, mom or dad, grandma or grandpa, you could be the distraction to your teen. Most teens we encounter tell us they get very nervous while a parent is in the car.
While that’s natural, parents need to be sure to convey confidence to their student driver and, maybe, remember what it was like when you learned to drive. Nonetheless, it’s critical to be a part of the process of getting your teen comfortable behind the wheel. Meanwhile, we like to stress to teen passengers to not only be respectful of the driver, but also willing to speak up if the operator is placing them at risk. Speed seems to be a common complaint and, with the inexperienced driver, one that quickly can turn into mayhem. Some believe it’s a sense of invincibility
Lt. Larry King is the lead instructor for the Lee County Sheriff’s Office Teen Driver Challenge, 239561-8336 or leecountysheriffsyouthactivitiesleague. com/teen-driver-challenge.
or power or the simple thrill of hurtling down the road. Because teens tend to be impulsive, parents must stress the dangers and responsibilities inherent with the privilege of driving to both teen drivers and passengers. Please let your teen know they can call you if they believe a driver is impaired or too reckless. It’s a part of making good choices, not to mention, a safe one. Another option is the Teen Driver Challenge. This professional driving course is hosted by 38 sheriff’s offices across Florida, including local programs in Lee, Collier and Charlotte counties. Highly trained deputies conduct classroom instruction, along with offering the teen driver challenging hands-on driving through a series of maneuvers, obstacles and scenarios. You can learn more through the Florida Sheriffs Association website at flsheriffs.org; search under the Programs tab then Youth for someone to contact near you. Teen driving can be a scary proposition these days. It goes without saying one fatality is too many, but we’re letting you know we’re talking hundreds of lives in Florida alone. The alarm should be going off and you should be taking the call to action. As Albert Einstein is attributed to saying, “The only source of knowledge is experience.” Turn experience into knowledge for your teen and make our Florida roads safer.
Safe Kids is a nonprofit coalition of agencies and organizations dedicated to eliminating preventable childhood injuries. Visit safekidsswfl.org.
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» family album
Golden Apples » Above, Joy Williams, an art teacher
at Cypress Lake Middle School, shows her joy after being one of 30 finalists for a Golden Apple on January 18. At right: Brittany Camp, a teacher at Cypress Lake High School Center for the Arts, was nominated as one of 30 finalists for Golden Apple. Photos by Andrew West
Signing day » In
February, high school athletes commit to the colleges of their choice. Lehigh Senior High School 4-star defensive end Quashon Fuller chose Florida State over Alabama. And his nephew, Kyrie Gloster 5months, was there on the big day. Photo by Andrea Melendez
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City of Fort Myers Recreation “Bringing Our Community Together”
Fort Myers Skatium
• Learn to Skate Classes • Public Skating • Youth / Adult Hockey Leagues • Youth / Adult Indoor Sports
Aquatic Center
• Private Swim Lessons • Two Pools Open Year Round • New lower prices • Heated Pools
Athletics & Outdoor Sports
Robotics Competition »
• Outdoor Sports
The Community School of Naples hosted Collier County’s first Florida state-qualifying robotics competition February 9. The school’s Computer Science Department Chair Sean Headrick and his students organized the “Best in Southwest” VEX Competition. Photos provided by the Community School of Naples
• Co-Ed Youth / Adult Soccer • Women’s Soccer • Volleyball Rental League • Coed 7v7 Soccer • Women’s 7v7 Soccer
Ready for spring training »
• 9+ Sand Volleyball Leagues • Softball Leagues • Field Rentals
Alexander Lopez takes part in the Minnesota Twins open house at Hammond Stadium at Century Link Sports Complex on February 16. It was the first day for the full squad spring training workout. Photo by Andrew West
For more information on all activities contact us at: • Fort Myers Skatium (239) 321-7509
NP-0000965591
• Aquatic Center (239) 321-7556 • Athletics & Outdoor Sports 239-321-7514
SOUTHWEST FLORIDA PARENT & CHILD » MARCH 2019 » 45
» family album
Art Fest » Clockwsie from top left: Amyah Casiano, 5, of Cape Coral, left, modeled for
the cover of the February issue of SW FL Parent & Child magazine. She and her sister, Jaslynn, who also modeled for the magazine a few years ago, stopped by the SW FL Parent & Child booth at ArtFest Fort Myers on Saturday, February 2 in downtown Fort Myers. • Caleb Moraes wears a Spider-Man mask he made with Josie Moraes. • Vivien Cimafranca and Calina-Sophie Carstens of Cypress Lake High School create chalk art. • Melissa Moraes wears her superhero mask. Photos by Pamela Hayford
School Choice week » The
Northwest Naples Classical Conversations home-school community celebrated School Choice Week (January 21-25). These seventh-graders are part of one of the five Classical Conversations communities in the Naples-Bonita Springs area.
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Send Us Your Snapshots Send your images with a brief description and names of the people in them to editor@swflparentchild.com
Bug Run »
More than 320 people participated in the 11th annual BUG Chase 5K Run on January 26 at the Calusa Nature Center in Fort Myers. The race benefits the Fort Myers-Metro Kiwanis Club’s Bring Up Grades, or BUG, program and other youth service projects. Photo special to SW FL Parent & Child
Women’s March »
Numerous moms brought their daughters to the Women’s March on January 20 in Centennial Park in Fort Myers. Elizabeth Kuglistsh-Landikusic, left, and her daughter Evita Landikusic, 6, listen to speakers at the the march. Photo by Amanda Inscore
SOUTHWEST FLORIDA PARENT & CHILD » MARCH 2019 » 47
» family album
Kids rock »
Kara Cross, Jade Garrett and Ava Gabor show off their painted rocks at 21st Century Oncology’s Kids Rock! event January 19 at the company’s corporate support center in Fort Myers. At the rock painting party, children turned rocks into works of art and then placed them around the Golisano Children’s Hospital to brighten the day for patients and their families. Photo courtesy of 21st Century Oncology
A ministry of First Presbyterian Church Bonita Springs | 9751 Bonita Beach Rd
239.948.6677 | wonderyearsbonita.org
100 days of school » First-graders
at St. Andrew Catholic School in Cape Coral celebrated the 100th day of school in January by dressing up as what they think they might look like when they’re 100 years old. Photos provided by St. Andrew Catholic School
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travel »
SOUNDS AND SIGHTS OF
GETTY IMAGES
Music and history combine in fun harmony during a trip to Music City. STORY BY RANDY K AMBIC
S
ing to the actual recordings of Elvis Presley, Roy Orbison and many other artists where they were captured on vinyl. Have your picture taken on the stages of both the previous and present Grand Ole Opry locations. Immerse in the world’s largest collection of country music artifacts. Catch a live performance of a rising or current star. Experiencing the past, present
and future of what makes Nashville “Music City,” the “Country Music Capital of the World” and the “Buckle in the Bible Belt” complements the city’s many elegant and stately sites that also earned its accolade as the “Athens of the South,” including the world’s only full-size replica of the original Parthenon in Greece, former President Andrew Jackson’s family home, the Belmont Mansion, the Belle Meade Plantation and the State Capitol building.
The Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum showcases 2 million-plus guitars, photos, gold and platinum-selling records, awards, sheet music, attire and more of pioneers Bill Monroe, Jimmie Rodgers and Chet Atkins up to current stars Blake Shelton, Tim McGraw and Faith Hill. The incredible growth in country music’s popularity and its influence on rock, pop and other genres are also well documented.
SOUTHWEST FLORIDA PARENT & CHILD » MARCH 2019 » 49
« travel (continued)
THIS PAGE, CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: Visitors to the Country Music Hall of Fame & Museum learn about the early days of the electric guitar. • The current home of the Grand Ole Opry welcomes backstage visitors and concert-goers. • Nashville’s full-size replica of The Parthenon is a major reason why it earned the nickname Athens of the South. • Elvis Presley’s custom Cadillac is parked at the Country Music Hall of Fame & Museum. • A 41-foot-high statue of the Greek goddess Athena is inside The Parthenon in Nashville.
Kids can get hands-on experiences in the Taylor Swift Education Center in the Country Music Hall of Fame & Museum. The facility also arranges for tours of the nearby Historic RCA Studio B, the legendary “Home of 1,000 Hits” where Elvis recorded 40-plus songs from 1958 to 1971. Countless other artists made records here as well. Tour or record your own CD at the Ryman Auditorium, first a church in 1892 and then the home of the Grand Ole Opry (as featured in the “Coal Miner’s Daughter” biopic of the legendary Loretta Lynn). It was succeeded by the current Grand Ole Opry in 1974 that offers peeks into dressing rooms and showcases plaques
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of its 200-plus current inductees. Both venues present concerts year-round. Johnny Cash, Merle Haggard and Patsy Cline all have their own museums next to each other on Third Avenue with George Jones’ nearby. Fifty-plus taverns line lower Broadway, including Legends Corner, The Second Fiddle, The Stage on Broadway and Ole Red (owned by Shelton), most offering nearly nonstop live country music. The Hermitage, with a Greek Revival mansion on its vast grounds, is preserved how our seventh president and his family lived after he served two terms. An onsite museum and costumed docents at the home describe the tumultuous life and times of Old
Hickory. The interior of The Parthenon, first built for the 1897 Tennessee Centennial and International Exposition, includes a 41-foot-high statue of the Greek goddess Athena and a permanent art collection. The Gaylord Opryland Resort and Convention Center, with many water slides and children’s stage shows, and the Adventure Science Center are geared for families. The dragon sculpture at the playground in Fannie Mae Dees Park, also known as Dragon Park, was recently restored. The Warner Park Nature Center offers hiking trails, animals, a dog park and picnicking. The Tennessee State Museum
If you go Adventure Science Center
• 800 Fort Negley Blvd., Nashville Phone: 615-862-5160 • Online: adventuresci.org • Hours: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., daily • Cost: $15.95 for adults, $11.95 for ages 2-12, free for children younger than 2
Andrew Jackson’s The Hermitage • 4580 Rachel’s
Lane, Nashville • Phone: 615-889-2941 • Online: thehermitage.com • Hours: 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily • Cost: $20 for adults, $15 for ages 13-18, $10 for ages 6-12 and veterans, free for ages 5 and younger and active military, $54 family pass
Belle Meade Plantation • 5025
PHOTOS BY RANDY KAMBIC
Harding Pike, Nashville • Phone: 615-3560501 • Online: bellemeadeplantation.com • Hours: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily • Cost: $24 for adults, $13 for ages 6-18, free for ages 5 and younger
Country Music Hall of Fame & Museum • 222 Fifth Ave. S., Nashville
THIS PAGE, FROM TOP: The mansion at The Hermitage was the home of former President Andrew Jackson and his family after he served two terms. • The stage at the previous home of the Grand Ole Opry in Ryman Auditorium still puts on live shows.
reopened last fall in expanded space. The former Marathon Motor Works factory is now Marathon Village with a car museum, art boutiques, retail shops and restaurants. Plaza Mariachi Music City has art galleries, Latin dining, shopping and late-night live music. The Music City Hop bus, which features live narration and videos, conveniently connects most of the downtown attractions. Upcoming events include the Nashville Cherry Blossom Festival on April 13, the St. Jude Rock ‘N’ Roll Nashville Marathon and Half-Marathon
on April 25-28, the annual Goodguys Nashville Nationals car show May 3-5, the annual music, food and art Sevier Park Fest on May 3-4, the Tennessee Craft Fair on May 3-5, and the annual Country Music Association Festival, June 6-9. Whether a fan of music, architecture or history or just seeking family fun, you’ll see why Condé Nast Traveler, National Geographic Traveler, Booking.com, Travelocity and TripAdvisor all selected Nashville as “One of the Best Places to Visit in 2018.” Check visitmusiccity.com for more information and special packages.
• Phone: 615-416-2001 • Online: countrymusichalloffame.org • Hours: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily Cost: $25.95 for adults, $23.95 for seniors and students, $15.95 for ages 6-12
Johnny Cash Museum
• 119 Third Ave. S., Nashville • Phone: 615256-1777 • Online: johnnycashmuseum. com • Hours: 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily • Cost: $19.95 for adults, $18.95 for students, seniors and military, $15.95 for ages 6-15
The Parthenon • Centennial Park,
2500 West End Ave., Nashville • Phone: 615-862-8431 • Online: parthenon.org • Hours: 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., TuesdaySaturday; 12:30 to 4:30 p.m. Sunday • Cost: $6.50 for adults, $4.50 for children and seniors
Ryman Auditorium • 116 Fifth Ave.
N., Nashville • Phone: 615-889-3060 • Online: ryman.com • Hours: 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily • Cost: $24.95 for adults, $16.95 for ages 4-11, free for ages 3 and younger
Tennessee State Museum
• 1000 Rosa L. Parks Blvd., Nashville • Phone: 615-741-2692 • Online: tnmuseum.org • Hours: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Tuesday-Saturday, except 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Thursday; 1 to 5 p.m. Sunday • Cost: Free
SOUTHWEST FLORIDA PARENT & CHILD » MARCH 2019 » 51
« around town
TASTE PINK GOLD
Fort Myers Beach is known for its shrimp boats — and its Shrimp Festival by the Fort Myers Beach Lions Club. The annual event raises money for local charities and scholarships that benefit kids and students. Day 1, Saturday, March 9, starts at 9 a.m. with a 5K run followed by a parade at 10 a.m. plus the Art Fair & Food Expo and Pink Gold Shrimp Boil. The Queens Pageant is at 1 p.m. Then Day 2 continues the expo and shrimp boil and adds a shrimp-eating contest at 1 p.m. It all takes place in Lynn Hall Memorial Park and along Estero Boulevard. Get details at fortmyersbeachshrimpfestival.com.
Get in touch with nature
The Garden Club of Cape Coral hosts its March in the Park fundraiser 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, March 9 in Jaycee Park, where more than 35 vendors bring plants and garden art to sell. There’s plenty for the adult gardener, like speakers and presentations, but also for the kids with creative projects and face painting. There’s also food, music and prizes. Free admission and parking. For details, visit gardenclubofcapecoral. com, call 239-257-2654 or email huffom5@aol.com.
Calling all quick li'l leprechauns
Is your wee little one a quick crawler? Sign them up for the annual Baby Leprechaun Races in celebration of St. Patrick’s Day, Sunday, March 17 at Miromar Outlets. Babies — many of whom come dressed head to toe in green — must crawl past the finish line to compete for prizes. Registration begins at 11 a.m. in WINK Playland.
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Celebrate pi with pie
Partake in a palatable — possibly perfect — piece of pie in celebration of National Pi Day, that glorious holiday that celebrates the mathematical constant that represents the ratio of a circle’s circumference to its diameter. And what more wonderful circle to study than that of pie? The big day is Thursday, March 14, from 2 to 4 p.m. at the Naples Regional Library, 650 Central Ave., Naples. There’ll be a pie tasting contest (amateur and pro), a baking class, games and treats. Get details at collierlibrary.org or call 239-252-5135.
calendar »
PRESCHOOL & VPK
Coming this
summer:
CAMPS CRBC Wheel Lee Fun Bicycle Program » New this summer, the Caloosa Riders Bicycle Club is organizing a summer program for kids interested in bicycling. There are three skill levels to the camp: beginner, intermediate and advanced. The program runs 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Monday-Friday weekly June 10 through July 26, except no camp the week of July 1. Cost is $150 per week. Sign up through the CRBC website, caloosariders.org/wheelleefun, or at participating bicycle shops.
NFM Academy for the Arts Performing Arts Camp
DANCE
Celebrating Since 1951
All Ages
Classical Ballet Pointe Tap Jazz Hip Hop Modern Acrobatics Children’s Work
(239)334-3274 www.dancebochette.com NEWBORN CARE
» The North Fort Myers arts magnet school offers drama, violin, steel drums, guitar, woodwind, garage rock band, brass and robotics programming for grades 3-9. A performance takes place at the end of each camp. Dates vary. Cost ranges from $125 to $340. Discounts available for paying in advance. nfa.leeschools.net
Alliance Arts and Musical Theater Camps » The Alliance for the Arts in Fort Myers offers a summer arts camps for grades 1-6 and a musical theater camp for grades 7-12. At the end of each week, the camps hold a grand finale: an art exhibit for one and a final stage performance for the other. Cost is $160 per week for members, $200 per week for nonmembers. Get details at artinlee.org.
Macedonia Missionary Baptist Church Camp » This is the second year for Macedonia Missionary Baptist Church’s two-week summer camp for ages 6-13. The kids go on three field trips each week and participate in a variety of activities, including cooking, outdoor games, arts and crafts, fitness and theater. This year, the Naples camp is July 8-19 and runs 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. Cost is $100 for both weeks and includes breakfast, lunch and snacks. Register via the church office, which is open 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. For details, call 239262-4877 or 512-294-0485.
FIND MORE CAMPS Look for our searchable summer camps list on swflparentchild.com. SOUTHWEST FLORIDA PARENT & CHILD » MARCH 2019 » 53
« calendar Saturday, March 2 Southwest Florida & Lee County Fair » Through March 10. Lee Civic Center, 11831 Bayshore Road, North Fort Myers. Livestock, rides, fair food and shows. Full schedule on fair website. Gate prices are $10 for adults, $5 for children (does not include rides). Ride tickets can be purchased at the fair. Check online for specials and deals. swflcfair.com
Tuesday, March 5 Breastfeeding Class » 6:30-8:30 p.m. The Family Birth Center of Naples, 2930 Immokalee Road, Suite 2, Naples. Learn how to successfully breastfeed your newborn, use breast pumps and transition to returning to work while breastfeeding. 239-594-0400 or email FBCNaples@gmail. com. naplesbirthcenter.com
Wednesday, March 6 Budweiser Clydesdales Meet-and-Greet » 2-4 p.m. 31 Produce, 18672 State Road 31, Alva. Meet the horses.
Thursday, March 7 Sanibel Shell Festival » March 7-9. Sanibel Community House, 2173 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel. Runs 9 a.m.-5 p.m. March 7-8 and 9 a.m.-4 p.m. March 9. facebook.com/ events/747369795729978
Friday, March 8 Backyard Nature » 6-8 p.m. Cape Coral Four Freedoms Park, 4818 Tarpon Court, Cape Coral. For ages 4-7. An evening of learning with activities and crafts. $10 for residents, $12 for nonresidents. 239-547-0804.
Saturday, March 9
of Cape Coral. Vendors, master gardeners answering questions, children’s projects, food, music and more. Free admission and parking. 239-257-2654 or huffom5@aol.com. gardenclubofcapecoral.com Sun Splash Opening Day » 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Sun Splash Family Waterpark, 400 Santa Barbara Blvd., Cape Coral. capeparks.com
Sunday, March 10 Taco Fest » 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Centennial Park, 2000 W. First St., Cape Coral. Vendors, $2 tacos, live music, climbing wall and other activities for the kids. Whimsical Paper Flowers » 2 p.m. Alliance for the Arts, 10091 McGregor Blvd., Fort Myers. Ages 12 and older learn easy methods of creating whimsical bouquets with a variety of colored papers, tape, pipe cleaners, wire and craft gems.
Monday, March 11 Spring Break Basketball Clinic » March 11-15. Boys & Girls Club of Collier County, 7500 Davis Blvd., Naples. Open to boys and girls in Collier County in grades 1-8. Runs 9 a.m.noon March 11, 13, 14 and 15 (no clinic March 12). Free for members, $40 for nonmembers for all four days. To register: 239-325-1773 or barnold@bgccc.com.
Tuesday, March 12 Nature Trail Hike » 10-11:30 a.m. Koreshan State Park, 3800 Corkscrew Road, Estero. Included with park admission, $5 per vehicle with 2-8 occupants, $4 per single-occupant vehicle and $2 for pedestrians and bicyclists. Reservations requested. The next Nature Trail Hike is April 2. 239-992-0311. World Water Day » Rookery Bay Environmental Learning Center, 300 Tower Road, Naples. Learn about water with buyone, get-one-free admission. rookerybay.org
2019 Charter Authority Rally on the Green » 8 a.m.-4 p.m. Cape Royal Golf Club, 11460 Royal Tee Circle, Cape Coral. Golf tournament, rides, games, food, entertainment, performance by Iconic, online auction. Free admission and parking. Tee times may be purchased online. Wristbands for unlimited rides and games are $5. Benefits Cape Coral Charter Authority Schools and Charter Authority Foundation. capecharterfoundation.com
Wednesday, March 13
Day Out with Thomas: Big Adventures Tour 2019 » March 9-10 and March 15-17. Florida Railroad Museum, 12210 83rd St. E., Parrish. Take a ride with Thomas the Tank Engine and enjoy other activities. Gates open at 8:30 a.m. and close at 5 p.m. Tickets are $19-$23. 866-468-7630. dayoutwiththomas.com or frrm.org
Collier County Fair » March 14-24. Collier County Fair Grounds, 751 39th Ave. N.E., Naples. Admission is $12 for adults, $5.50 for ages 6-11. MegaPass is $28 in advance. Discounts posted online. 239-455-1444. collierfair.com
Shrimp Festival » March 9-10. Lynn Hall Memorial Park and along Estero Boulevard, Fort Myers Beach. Art Fair & Food Expo and Pink Gold Shrimp Boil. March 9 starts at 9 a.m. with a 5K followed by a parade at 10 a.m. Queens Pageant at 1 p.m. March 10 shrimp-eating contest at 1 p.m. fortmyersbeachshrimpfestival.com. March in the Park » 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Jaycee Park, 4125 S.E. 20th Place, Cape Coral. Benefits the Garden Club
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Budget Clinic » 3 p.m. Lee County Department of Human and Veteran Services, 2440 Thompson St., Fort Myers. Free. Gives attendees the tools to better manage the family budget.
Thursday, March 14
National Pi Day » 2-4 p.m. Naples Regional Library, 650 Central Ave., Naples. Celebrate National Pi Day with a pie tasting contest of which local establishments and amateur bakers vie for culinary bragging rights. Plus, games for kids and other pie/pi fun. 239-252-5135. collierlibrary.org
Friday, March 15 Disney On Ice Presents “Frozen” » March 15-17. Hertz Arena, 11000 Everblades Parkway, Estero. Disney on Ice brings
calendar » seven performances of the Academy-Award winning story. Tickets start at $20. Shows are 10:30 a.m. and 7 p.m. March 15, 11 a.m., 3 and 7 p.m. March 16 and 1 and 5 p.m. March 17. disneyonice.com Jackie Evancho » 7:30 p.m. Barbara B. Mann Performing Arts Hall at FSW, 13350 FSW Parkway, south Fort Myers. Jackie Evancho dazzled TV audiences at age 10 on NBC’s “America’s Got Talent.” Over the next eight years, she produced a string of platinum and gold albums and six consecutive No. 1 hits on the Billboard Classical charts. $35-$55. 239-481-4849.
Saturday, March 16 Antique Engine & Quilt Show » 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Koreshan State Park, 3800 Corkscrew Road, Estero. Antique engines will line the historic settlement’s shell paths. Quilt-related crafts, demonstrators and sewers will also be on display. There will be food vendors and live music, too. 239-992-0311.
open to the public 9 a.m.-5 p.m. March 21-23. Prices start at 50 cents. 239-593-0334. collierlibrary.org Sensational Sharks » 10 a.m. Lover Key State Park, 8700 Estero Blvd., Fort Myers Beach. Learn about sharks with a park naturalist. Included with park admission, $4 for a vehicle with one person, $8 for a vehicle with 2-8 people, $2 for pedestrians and cyclists. Reservations required. 239-463-4588.
Thursday, March 21 “Getting to Know You” Club Tour & Lunch » Noon. Boys & Girls Club of Collier County, 7500 Davis Blvd., Naples. Get to know the club and its program. Lunch provided free by The Blue CanTEEN, Boys & Girls Club of Collier County’s food truck, every third Thursday through season. RSVP via Eventbrite or email Heidi Overman at hoverman@bgccc.com. Cracker Cowboy Cooking » 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Koreshan State Park, 3800 Corkscrew Road, Estero. Join Stan and his group of cracker cowboys as they cook up samples of authentic cracker cowboy food. Included with park admission, $4 for single-occupant vehicle, $5 for 2- to 8-occupant vehicle, $2 for pedestrians and bicyclists. 239-992-0311.
Friday, March 22
ECHO’s Global Food & Farm Festival » ECHO Global Farm, 17391 Durrance Road, North Fort Myers. ECHO opens the whole farm to the public and provides live cooking classes, how-to gardening, demonstrations, hands-on learning, alternative energies, fresh-squeezed orange juice, make-andtake crafts, exotic food samples, farmers market, food trucks and more. Learn how to cut a pineapple with little waste, the best way to open a coconut and other food tricks. $5 in advance, $7 event day, free for ages 8 and younger. 239-5433246. echonet.org
Sunday, March 17 Baby Leprechaun Races » 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Miromar Outlets, 10801 Corkscrew Road, Estero. In WINK Playland, babies must crawl past the finish line for prizes. miromaroutlets.com St. Patrick’s Day Celebration » Noon-9 p.m. Fishermen’s Village, 1200 W. Retta Esplanade, Punta Gorda. The familyfriendly celebration features live music, Irish dancers (4:30 p.m.), face painting (2-7 p.m.) and the Lee County Pipes & Drums Parade (5:30 p.m.). Free. 941-639-8721. fishville.com St. Patrick’s Day Bash » Noon-6 p.m. Shell Factory & Nature Park, 2787 N. Tamiami Trail, North Fort Myers. Irish food, green beer, entertainment, bagpipers and Irish dancers, Irish music. shellfactory.com
Wednesday, March 20 Book Sale » March 20-23. Collier County Public Library, 2385 Orange Blossom Drive, Naples. Preview night for Friends of the Library members is 5-7 p.m. March 20. The book sale will be
Family Comedy Night w/BJ Odom » 6:30-8:30 p.m. Lake Kennedy Center, 400 Santa Barbara Blvd., Cape Coral. Familyfriendly comedy show with BJ Odom and opening act Nathan Wallace. Bring your kids or grandkids to this family comedy night at Lake Kennedy Center. Pizza, veggies and dip, chips and drinks will be provided for the $10 ticket price. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. Show starts at 7 p.m. 239-574-0575. Family Night at IMAG » 5-8 p.m. IMAG History & Science Center, 2000 Cranford Ave., Fort Myers. Explore the IMAG History and Science Center after dark with extended hours. Included with general admission. Next Family Night: April 26. Lehigh Spring Festival » March 22-30. Veterans Park, 55 Homestead Road S., Lehigh Acres. Contests, pageants, carnival rides, entertainment and more. This year’s Grand Parade is at 11 a.m. Saturday, March 23. Admission is free; parking is a $4 donation. Nine-day unlimited-rides wristbands are $60 in advance. 239-357-6987. lehighspringfestival.online Boogie Bash » 6-10:30 p.m. Grey Oaks Country Club, 2400 Grey Oaks Drive N., Naples. Benefits Friends of Foster Children Forever. With the theme “Roar into the ’20s with Gatsby,” the fundraiser celebrates FFCF’s 20th anniversary. $275 per person. 239-262-1808. friendsoffosterchildren.net
Saturday, March 23 India Fest » 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Estero Recreation Center, 9200 Corkscrew Road, Estero. The India Association of Fort Myers presents Indian food, dance, music, handicrafts and clothing. $5 admission, free parking. Movie Under the Stars » 6-9:30 p.m. Coconut Point, 23106 Fashion Drive, Estero. Watch movies outdoors on select dates through May. Bring a blanket and lawn chair. Pets welcome. Movies begin at dusk. March 23: “Jumanji, Welcome to the Jungle.” April 13: “Ralph Breaks the Internet.” May 11: “A Wrinkle in Time.” Free. 239-992-9966. simon.com/mall/ coconut-point/news-and-events.
SOUTHWEST FLORIDA PARENT & CHILD » MARCH 2019 » 55
« calendar Richard Smith, World-Renowned Guitarist » 1-2 p.m. Collier County Headquarters Library, 2385 Orange Blossom Drive, Naples. Award-winning guitarist Richard Smith, rated as one of the best players in the world (all genres), plays at the library. His signature style features both finger-picking and flat-picking. Playing since he was 5, at age 11 he was playing with the legendary Chet Atkins. Registration not required. Snores & Roars Camping Adventure » 6 p.m. Shell Factory & Nature Park, 2787 N. Tamiami Trail, North Fort Myers. An overnight camping adventure in the nature park. Includes pizza, snack and continental breakfast, guided tour of park, tents and chairs. Bring a sleeping bag. $39 per person. Registration required. 239-995-2141 ext. 110 or email slynch. shellfactory@gmail.com Sound Minds Mental Health Symposium » 10 a.m.-noon. Moorings Presbyterian Church, 791 Harbour Drive, Naples. After the symposium is a VIP Meet the Speaker luncheon that includes live music. The symposium features keynote speaker Austin Eubanks, an injured survivor of the Columbine shooting and an expert in the addiction treatment industry. $10 suggested donation for the symposium. $125 for the luncheon. 239-354-1445 or donorcare@dlcmhc.com.
Tuesday, March 26 Grande Dames Tea » 1-3 p.m. Broadway Palm 1380 Colonial Blvd., Fort Myers. Fundraiser for PACE Center for Girls, Lee County. The event celebrates three local women for their roles in business, community and philanthropy. $60. 239-425-2366. pacecenter.org/locations/lee
Wednesday, March 27 Budget Clinic » 5:30 p.m. Lee County Department of Human and Veteran Services, 2440 Thompson St., Fort Myers. Free. Gives attendees the tools to better manage the family budget.
Friday, March 29 The Price Is Right Live » 8 p.m. Barbara B. Mann Performing Arts Hall, 13350 FSW Parkway, Fort Myers. This interactive stage show gives eligible individuals the chance to “Come on down” and play classic games from the popular TV show. Tickets are $36.50-$56.50. 239-481-4849. bbmannpah.com
Saturday, March 30 Babysitting Course » 9 a.m.-3:30 p.m. Four Freedoms Park, 4818 Tarpon Court, Cape Coral. Ages 11-16 teaches child care and safety via classroom training and hands-on procedures. 239-574-0804. capeparks.com Be My Neighbor Day » 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Myra Janco Daniels Public Media Center at Florida Gulf Coast University, 10501 S. FGCU Blvd., Fort Myers. Kids and their families explore a pop-up town of different neighborhoods. Play games, win giveaways and more. 239-590-2510. wgcu.com/events Better Money Habits » 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Naples Woman’s Club, 570 Park St., Naples. An event aimed at helping women ages 13 and older learn about good financial planning. $10
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for students in middle or high school, $20 for adults. Includes lunch and Chico’s accessory. Dress is business casual. Community Day » 9 a.m.-5 p.m. 31 Produce, 18672 State Road 31, Alva. Enjoy the petting zoo, gem mining, tractor rides, face painting, kettle corn and snow cones. Fairy Godparent Apprentice Workshop » 9:30 a.m.-12:15 p.m. Lake Kennedy Center, 400 Santa Barbara Blvd., Cape Coral. Kids ages 5-8 learn from the center’s fairy godparents and apprentices how to make all the important things a fairyin-training needs: wings, wands, lanterns and crowns. $25 per child. Lunch included. Registration required. 239-5740575. Garlic Fest » 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Centennial Park, 2000 W. First St., Fort Myers. More than 20 vendors will have a dish prepared with garlic. Plus live music and activities for the kids, including a climbing wall, bounce house and crafts. North Naples Music Festival - Choir Collaboration » 9 a.m. North Naples Church, 6000 Goodlette-Frank Road, Naples. This Community Choir Collaboration features the Student Choir for grades 8-12. Join a multitude of singers from Southwest Florida in a mass choir, accompanied by a variety of instrumentalists. There will be a finale with the Adult Choir and the Student Choir of over 200 singers. Rehearsal is 9 a.m.-1:45 p.m. with a lunch break at noon. The concert is 2 p.m. March 30.
Sunday, March 31 Blues for the Blue Free Concert » 4-9 p.m. Cambier Park, 601 Park St., Naples. Three blues bands perform in this family-friendly concert to honor fallen officers. Food trucks on site. Free; donations will be accepted. Bring a chair or blanket. No coolers. Dogs welcome on leash. 239-234-2715. thefallenofficers.com Mac N’ Cheese Challenge » 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Venue Naples, 13240 Tamiami Trail N., Suite 205, Naples. The Make-A-Wish Southern Florida Youth Leadership Committee is bringing in several restaurants and catering companies to showcase their most delicious take on this classic comfort food. Enjoy mac n’ cheese samples and vote for your favorite while listening to live music. sfla.wish.org
Wednesday, April 3 “The Lion King” » April 3-21. Barbara B. Mann Performing Arts Hall, 13350 FSW Parkway, Fort Myers. Disney’s “The Lion King” brings Broadway to Southwest Florida at Mann Hall. It’s the winner of six Tony Awards, including Best Musical. Shows are 7:30 p.m. Tuesdays-Thursdays (plus 1:30 p.m. Thursday, April 4), 8 p.m. Fridays, 2 and 8 p.m. Saturdays and 1 and 6:30 p.m. Sundays. ASL performance is 2 p.m. Saturday, April 6. Tickets start at $37. 239-481-4849. bbmannpah.com or lionking.com
Friday, April 5 Chair-A-Tea Party » 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Bonita Bay Club, 26660 Country Club Drive, Bonita Springs. $50. A tea party and lunch to benefit Our Mother’s Home. There will be a silent auction of hand-painted chairs and other works of art from local artists. ourmothershome.com/chair-a-tea
Sue Zumstein is the executive director of Quest for Success, a nonprofit that helps students prepare for college. She is also chair of the School Advisory Council at Barron Collier High School. (questforsuccess.com or 239-403-71740)
voices »
GUEST COLUMNIST
COLLEGE: IS IT ALL ABOUT THE NUMBERS?
A
s parents, many of us envision a college education in our child’s future. For some, it is the pride of a son or daughter being the first in the family to attend a four-year institution. For others, it is simply expected, because as parents we were a Gator, or a Nole, or a Knight. However, with the ease of applying to multiple colleges through the Common Application or the Coalition Application, the volume of students applying to Florida State University is rising each year. Here are a few stats provided by Florida State University right before they released admissions decisions at the end of January 2019: » There were 57,000 applications for 6,200 spots in the freshman class. » That was an 11.9 percent increase in applications from the prior year. » There was a 41 percent increase in applications from out-of-state students. » Students from 49 states in the US applied and were accepted to FSU. » 23 percent of admitted students were the first in their family to attend
college. » The mid-range ACT was 27-32. » The mid-range SAT was 12501380. As the executive director of Quest For Success, a college prep program in Naples, I find myself astonished how each year many colleges have at least a 10 percent increase in applications. However, most colleges are not looking to increase their overall enrollment. This results in more and more students applying for a fixed number of spots, creating steadily decreasing acceptance rates. As our Florida state universities continue to up their game, more and more students from around the US apply to these schools. What can we as parents be doing to assure our sons and daughters are strong applicants to our increasingly competitive colleges and universities in Florida? » Before starting a college application, become aware of the deadlines for not only the application, but also for test scores to be sent from SAT or ACT. » Find out if the college requires
an official transcript from the high school or if they require a SSARS (self-reported grades; more at ssar. selfreportedtranscript.com). » Put time and effort into preparing for the SAT or ACT. Take these tests seriously. While they are not the only factor in college admissions, they continue to play a significant role in acceptances. Cramming for these tests a few weeks in advance usually does not produce the desired outcome. And no matter how strong a student your son or daughter is academically, these tests are unlike any tests they have taken in high school. » Plan the college essay in advance. This is the only opportunity for a student’s voice to be heard beyond the statistics of GPA and test scores. » Keep checking email for updates and notifications from the colleges. Deadlines are important! Above all, if your son or daughter wants to go to college, they can. There are many different paths to earning a four-year college degree, and with a wellthought-out plan, a college education is attainable.
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BUMPING INTO BUBBLES Stella Curry, 3, has fun with bubbles during the monthly Emerging Inventors program on January 17 at the Edison and Ford Winter Estates in Fort Myers. The program, for ages 1-5, gets creative this month with “Art, Naturally” on March 14.
PHOTO BY AMANDA INSCORE
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