Paradise Coast, FL August 2025

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REYU is a movement for those who want to stay healthy and beautiful, by restoring their bodies’ natural connections.

Our bodies are constantly self-repaired by 3 central organs; the brain, the heart, and the intestines. They feed, repair, and regulate all our peripheral cells and organs through blood vessels, nerves, and lymphatic ducts, which run back and forth in loops - we call them the bio-feedback loops. The youthful state of both internal and external peripheral organs is dependent on the integrity of their bio-feedback loops to these 3 central organs. As we age, these loops degenerate. The impaired connection between the central organs and ALL our cells is creating both beauty and health issues. That’s why beauty and health are correlated - both are a reflection of young and functional biofeedback loops. True rejuvenation starts with the biofeedback loops. REYU is a technology designed to achieve the restoration of these loops in a sustainable and 100% natural way.

Mother-Daughter Duo, Dr. Greet and Sophie
Hair growth result with REYU

August - Our Family, Kids & Pets Issue

This issue holds a special place in my heart. Coming from a tight knit family growing up, it has always come first to me. I agree with Michael J. Fox when he was once quoted as saying, "family is not an important thing, it's everything." Family is the cornerstone of our lives, the foundation upon which we build our identities, and can be a source of unconditional love and support. Families are crucial for our greater communities too - be their impact in neighborhoods, schools, business, or charitable causes. In this issue, we'll highlight some in our community placing emphasis on family, children, and pets.

Children are more than just the future—they are the heartbeat of our communities today. Their laughter, their curiosity, and their potential shape the world in ways we can’t fully measure. As parents and caregivers, we put so much effort into nurturing their growth, teaching them, and investing in their futures. But let’s not forget that children also shape us—they bring joy, laughter, and meaning to our everyday lives.

We also cannot overlook the powerful role pets play in our families. They offer unconditional love and teach us valuable lessons in empathy, responsibility, and companionship. The bond between kids and their pets can be transformative, fostering deep emotional connections that last a lifetime (as can be seen here in the photograph of my own son and our doggy, Harry).

At the core of both children and pets is a simple truth—they need us. Our care and attention shape who they become, and in turn, they shape us. This issue is dedicated to celebrating the kids and pets, families, family and pet advocates, and other respective charitable initiatives who fill our homes (and help to fill others' homes) with joy and love.

I hope this month’s issue inspires you to pour a little extra love into the children and pets in your life. They are the ones who remind us of the simple joys and the importance of unconditional love.

Here’s to our future, our little ones, and the pets who make everything better!

August 2025

PUBLISHER

Jenn Wideberg | jenn.wideberg@citylifestyle.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITER

PCCL Staff

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Sophia Wea Photography, JW Marriott Marco Island

Corporate Team

CEO Steven Schowengerdt

COO Matthew Perry

CRO Jamie Pentz

VP OF OPERATIONS Janeane Thompson

VP OF SALES Andrew Leaders

AD DESIGNER Zach Miller

LAYOUT DESIGNER Amanda Schilling

QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Megan Cagle

ADVENTURE IS CALLING

EXCLUSIVE TRIPS

We’ll take you places you never knew existed and offer experiences you won’t find anywhere else.

EFFORTLESS PLANNING

Tell us when you’d like to travel & we’ll take care of the rest – and exceed your expectations every step of the way.

PRICELESS MEMORIES

There’s nothing more valuable than focused time away with the people you love most.

Jenn Wideberg PARADISE COAST CITY LIFESTYLE PUBLISHER

Marco Island Center for the Arts MARCOISLANDART.ORG

Marco Island Historical Society THEMIHS.INFO

Naples Art Picnic INSTAGRAM.COM/NAPLESARTPICNIC

Beauty Edition By Katie BEAUTYEDITIONBYKATIE.COM

FACE FOUNDRIÉ

FACEFOUNDRIE.COM/LOCATION/NAPLES

Masters Men’s Grooming Service MASTERSMENSGROOMING.COM

Sand Dollar Boat Tours SANDDOLLARSHELLING.COM

Club Pilates

CLUBPILATES.COM/LOCATION/SOUTHNAPLES

Marco Island Yacht Club MARCOISLANDYACHTCLUB.NET

POSH Gin POSHGIN.COM

Rebecca’s & The Maddox REBECCASNAPLES.COM THEMADDOXNAPLES.COM

AltaMar Dental Studio ALTAMARDENTAL.COM

DexaFit

NAPLES.DEXAFIT.COM

Naples Mobile IV NAPLESMOBILEIVS.COM

Thrive IV Bar THRIVEIVBAR.COM

More Space Place MORESPACEPLACE.COM/NAPLES

Carl’s Wine Vault CARLSWINEVAULT.COM

Chris Sullivan, RE/MAX Affinity Plus CHRISSULLIVAN.REMAX.COM

Pink Hibiscus PINKHIBISCUS.COM

FC Naples FCNAPLES.COM

Florida Everblades & Hertz Arena FLORIDAEVERBLADES.COM HERTZARENA.COM

Naples All Star Events NAPLESALLSTAREVENTS.COM

Caitlin Pfitzinger, EMBARK Beyond CAITLINPFITZINGERTRAVEL.COM

Cuvee Wine Travel CUVEEWINETRAVEL.COM

Emily James Art EMILYJAMESART.COM

A JARON Fine Jewelry AJARON.COM

Kenzi MedSpa & Wellness Center KENZISPA.COM

Faith Church WWW.FAITHCHURCHNAPLES.COM

city scene

WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN

1: Attendees enjoy Rookery Bay Community Day. 2: 'Miami to Marco' collaborative exhibition attendee at The Marco Island Center for the Arts. 3: Attendees enjoy a Maddox Private Members' Club Lunch & Learn from ReNEW-Yu. 4: Clients, partners, and friends enjoy Paradise Coast City Lifestyle's May issue party at The Maddox. 5: Paradise Coast City Lifestyle's publisher with 3 of May issue cover girls at The Maddox. 6: Visitors at The Botanical Gardens Frame & Flora Exhibition. 7: Torch Hot Yoga Ribbon Cutting.

ROOKERY BAY
MARCO ISLAND CENTER FOR THE ARTS
SAMANTHA BLOOM
JOSH SCHAVEY
NAPLES BOTANICAL GARDENS
GREATER NAPLES CHAMBER
JOSH SCHAVEY

KENZI

MED SPA

Regenerative Aesthetics

Bio-Fillers, Customized IV Hydration, Exosome Therapy, Peptide & Growth Factors, Platelet-Rich Plasma, Platelet-Rich Factors, Physician Supervised Weight Loss and more.

Noninvasive Facial Contouring

Neurotoxins, Fillers (Juvéderm, Restylane), RF Skin Tightening, PlexR Soft Surgery (popular for bar code lines), PDO Thread Lifts (Minimally Invasive), and more.

Noninvasive Body Contouring

CoolSculpting®, RF Body Sculpting, Cellulite Treatments, Nonsurgical Butt Lift, Ultrasound Cavitation, Skin Tighting, Vascular Treatments including Hemangiomas, Rosacea, Spider Angiomas, and more.

Dr. Aldene McKenzie

skin treatments including IPL, fractional resurfacing, radio frequency, and laser services. More technology, more precision— same natural results you trust .

business monthly

Rupert’s Karate Academy - Kids, Teens, and Adults Martial Arts

Dedicated to changing lives through martial arts, education and coaching. They strive to provide a safe, comfortable, positive and motivating atmosphere for all students, and take pride in creating an environment for individuals to achieve, develop and succeed in their personal goals. Throughout their programs, students will not only learn the necessary skillsets to protect themselves, but will also develop key character traits necessary to become a self-motivated, focused and disciplined member of society.

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The Sweet Science Boxing - Family-owned Haven for Fitness Enthusiasts

Be a part of their USA Amateur boxing program! Youth boxers use Dynamic Stations as part of their workout, and also get in the ring to do drills and spar with each other. If motivated and consistent, members will compete in local and national competitions and tournaments. Putting the head gear on and sparring other members is designated between 7-8pm weekdays. Personal training and mentoring also available: https://thesweetsciencenaples.com/programs

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Great Wolf Lodge - Make Memories with Your Pack

With their massive indoor water park, amazing attractions, complimentary daily events and activities, and delicious dining options, there’s no shortage of ways to play. Start planning your pack’s adventure today. With an indoor water park kept at a warm 84 degrees year-round, your pack can enjoy a world of fun— all under one roof. Book now for a family getaway in Naples!

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Three60 Wine Club at Rebecca’s gives members exclusive access to premium wines from Tuscany, Napa, Italy, France and beyond. Savor the nest wines from around the world every month, all in one place— welcome to Three60 Wine at Rebecca’s.

• T Two Tastings Per Month

• C Complimentary Admission to Weekly Wine Experiences ($75+ Value)

• N No Corkage Fee

• 1 10% Off Food, Catering and To Go at Rebecca’s & MORE!

DON’T MISS OUT – JOIN NOW!

Meet Dr. Edna May

NEW MOM, VETERINARIAN, AND CO-FOUNDER OF WAGS TO WISHES

ARTICLE BY PCCL STAFF

PHOTOGRAPHY BY SOPHIA WEA PHOTOGRAPHY

Q. CONGRATULATIONS ON YOUR BABY BOY! HOW HAS BECOMING A MOTHER CHANGED YOUR PERSPECTIVE—BOTH AT HOME AND AT WORK?

A. Becoming a mother has deepened my sense of purpose and reminded me that everything I do leaves a footprint. I hope to be a role model for my son—not just in how I love and care for him, but in how I show up for others, including the animals and people I serve through my work at the Humane Society of Naples and my nonprofit, Wags to Wishes.

Q. HOW DO YOU BALANCE YOUR ROLES AS A NEW MOM, A VETERINARIAN, AND A NONPROFIT FOUNDER?

A. When you love what you do, it doesn’t always feel like work. Being a veterinarian at the Humane Society of Naples and running Wags to Wishes both come from a place of deep passion—and that helps me stay grounded even when life feels overwhelming. I’m also lucky to have an incredible support system in my husband Matt and my circle of mom friends. Surrounding myself with women who lift each other up has made all the difference.

Q. WHAT VALUES DO YOU HOPE TO INSTILL IN YOUR SON WHEN IT COMES TO KINDNESS TOWARD ANIMALS?

A. Kindness, respect, and responsibility are core values we hope to pass on to our son—especially when it comes to animals. I want him to grow up understanding that animals aren’t just companions—they’re living beings who deserve care and empathy. Both my husband Matt and I have dedicated our careers to animal welfare in different ways. Matt, as the CEO of BarkBox, leads with a genuine love for dogs and a creative drive to improve the human-animal bond. Watching him model compassion and leadership in his own work has been

inspiring, and I hope our son sees those values in both of us. Ultimately, I want him to learn that using your voice and your platform—no matter the size—to do good is one of the most important things you can do in this world.

Q. DO YOUR PETS AT HOME INTERACT WITH YOUR BABY? ANY SWEET STORIES TO SHARE?

A. Yes! Our dog Gary is especially thrilled that the baby is now eating solid food—he’s basically appointed himself as the cleanup crew. It’s hilarious and kind of heartwarming to watch them form this little routine together. Gary’s always nearby, just waiting for crumbs to fall. It’s a small thing, but it’s part of the everyday joy of raising a child around animals.

Q. YOU’VE WORKED WITH HUMANE SOCIETY NAPLES FOR SEVERAL YEARS—WHAT DRIVES YOUR PASSION FOR ANIMAL CARE?

A. My passion has always come from the intersection of medicine and compassion. I started working at the Humane Society of Naples during Hurricane Ian, which was a chaotic and emotional time for so many animals and families in crisis. That experience immediately showed me how powerful this work could be—not just in treating animals, but in supporting the people who love them. I’ve seen firsthand how a little bit of care can completely change a life, and it’s that ongoing impact that keeps me going. It’s not just about medicine—it’s about hope, connection, and community.

Q. WHAT’S ONE THING YOU WISH EVERY FAMILY KNEW BEFORE ADOPTING A PET?

A. I wish more families understood the value of adopting instead of shopping for a pet. There are so many incredible animals in shelters—each one with their own story and potential. When you adopt, you’re

CONTINUED >

"Adopting a pet is a great way to teach kids about compassion, second chances, and the importance of giving back."
"My advice to other working moms is to be kind to yourself. You don’t have to be everything to everyone. Ask for help, and don’t lose sight of your passions."

not just saving a life—you’re opening up space in the shelter for the next one who needs help. It’s also a great way to teach kids about compassion, second chances, and the importance of giving back.

Q. WHAT ARE SOME COMMON MISTAKES FAMILIES MAKE WHEN INTRODUCING A NEW PET INTO A HOME WITH CHILDREN?

A. Going too fast. Kids are naturally excited, and sometimes that enthusiasm can overwhelm a new pet. It’s important to go slow, set boundaries, and help children understand that animals have feelings and need space, too.

Q. HOW CAN PARENTS HELP THEIR KIDS BUILD SAFE, LOVING RELATIONSHIPS WITH FAMILY PETS?

A. Modeling respect is key. When kids see their parents treating animals with gentleness and understanding, they follow suit. It’s also great to involve children in age-appropriate care tasks—it teaches empathy and responsibility early on. Another wonderful way for families to build that bond is through short-term fostering or shelter outings. Something as simple as taking a dog out for a day trip or fostering a litter of kittens and their mama for a few weeks can be incredibly meaningful for kids. It teaches compassion and patience while also helping animals prepare for their forever homes.

Q. TELL US ABOUT WAGS TO WISHES— HOW DID THE IDEA COME ABOUT, AND WHAT’S THE MISSION BEHIND IT?

A. Wags to Wishes started as a way to support Collier County Domestic Animal Services. At the time, they were doing so much with limited resources and didn’t have any major fundraising events to help cover emergency needs. I saw an opportunity to fill that gap by creating a nonprofit that could step in during those critical moments—especially for animals needing urgent medical care or temporary foster placement. What began as a grassroots effort has grown into something truly

special. Now, Wags to Wishes hosts the annual Naples Puppy Prom, which has become our largest fundraiser and a fun way to bring the community together to support rescue animals. At the heart of it, our mission is still the same: to keep pets and their people together, especially during times of crisis.

Q. HOW CAN FAMILIES GET INVOLVED IN YOUR NONPROFIT’S MISSION—WHETHER THROUGH VOLUNTEERING, FOSTERING, OR EDUCATION?

A. Fostering, donating, or even sharing our mission online makes a difference. We rely heavily on community involvement—it’s the backbone of everything we do. Families can also participate by attending our fundraising events like the Naples Puppy Prom and our upcoming event, Woofstock. These gatherings are not only a lot of fun but also vital in raising support for the pets and people we serve. Whether you can open your home to a foster pet, volunteer your time, or simply come out to celebrate with us, there’s always a way to contribute and be part of this compassionate community. Visit https:// www.wagstowishesnaples.com today to learn more.

Q. IF YOUR SON COULD READ THIS ONE DAY, WHAT WOULD YOU WANT HIM TO KNOW ABOUT YOUR WORK AND WHAT YOU STOOD FOR?

A. If he reads this someday, I want him to know that his parents dedicated their lives to kindness—whether it was through healing animals, helping families stay together with their beloved pets, or building a community rooted in compassion. We believed that every life matters, and that even small acts of care can create ripples far beyond what you can see. More than anything, I hope he understands that true strength comes from empathy, courage, and standing up for those who cannot speak for themselves. And I want him to know that no matter where life takes him, he carries the legacy of love and purpose that we worked so hard to build—not just for today, but for generations to come.

"A big future goal is to focus on helping elderly individuals care for their pets. So many seniors are bonded to their animals, but face financial or physical limitations that make pet care difficult."

In every pour of posh gin, there’s a story of passion, precision, and a commitment to excellence. Welcome to a world where every sip is an invitation to savor the extraordinary.

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ESCAPE the EVERYDAY Without Leaving Home

Sometimes, the best vacation is the one close to home.

Whether for a night away or simply a sun-drenched day at the beach, Naples and Marco Island residents can rediscover paradise—right in their own backyard—at The JW Marriott Marco Island Beach Resort.

Why drive across the state or board a plane for a quick summer getaway? For Southwest Florida locals, the perfect escape is just minutes away. Whether it’s a spontaneous overnight stay or a full day of beachside relaxation, JW Marriott Marco Island offers everything needed to unwind, reconnect, and recharge—without ever leaving the Paradise Coast.

THE

PERFECT

FAMILY STAYCATION

Families can indulge in an island escape with a one or two-night stay in spacious guest rooms and suites, many featuring private balconies and breathtaking sunset views. On-site activities offer something for everyone: from thrilling wave runner tours through the scenic 10,000 Islands to guided sailing and shelling excursions where guests may spot dolphins, seabirds, and more of Southwest Florida’s incredible natural beauty.

Your Staycation Awaits at the JW Marriott Marco Island

BY

When the sun sets, the fun continues indoors at 10K Alley—a one-of-a-kind entertainment destination. This vibrant venue features vintage arcade games, duckpin bowling, mini golf, and interactive sports simulators. While kids enjoy hours of entertainment, parents can unwind with a local craft brew at the taproom. It’s the perfect place to continue the fun, no matter the weather.

Guests can also relax poolside with a cocktail or book a couples massage at the Spa by JW, while younger visitors take part in supervised fun at the Tiki Tribe Discovery Camp. Evenings are made complete with dinner at one of the resort’s distinctive restaurants, serving up everything from fresh seafood to wood-fired pizzas and coastal-inspired cuisine.

JUST FOR THE DAY? THE RESORT DAY PASS DELIVERS.

For those not planning an overnight stay, the Resort Day Pass offers locals access to many of the same world-class amenities. Spend the day lounging by one of the sparkling pools, strolling the soft white sands, or reserving a shaded pool cabana or beach hut for added comfort and privacy.

Guests can enjoy casual bites and cocktails from Kane Tiki Bar, or sit down to a beachfront lunch at Quinn’s on the Beach. The resort’s on-site boutiques provide a touch of retail therapy, featuring stylish resort wear, gifts, and local treasures.

REDISCOVER THE MAGIC OF MARCO

Whether it’s a spontaneous getaway, a family weekend, or simply a relaxing day by the shore, JW Marriott Marco Island offers locals a front-row seat to the best of the Gulf Coast.

Let the resort take care of everything—just bring the flip-flops.

Ready to plan your staycation or day escape?

To reserve your overnight stay, visit  www. jwmarriottmarcoisland.com

To book a Resort Day Pass, go to  jwmarco. ipoolside.com .

Whether it’s a spontaneous getaway, a family weekend, or simply a relaxing day by the shore, JW Marriott Marco Island offers locals the best of the Gulf Coast.

Reserve your overnight stay, or book a Resort Day Pass today!

Caitlin Pfitzinger Travel is an exclusive, luxury travel agency that works with discerning clients on carefully curated itineraries across all global destinations. We believe that travel has the power to transform, heal, and connect with the world across many levels. Whatever your travel desires are, they will be carefully and intentionally tailored to fit your itinerary and needs.

www.caitlinpfitzingertravel.com 239.290.5340 @caitlinpfitzingertravel

Andrew T. Shippee
Robert T. Hart
Thomas Tonkovich
David Caruso Financial Advisor, FL
Alex Wenthe Financial Advisor, NJ

This isn’t your average getaway.

This is luxury travel reimagined for wine lovers, foodies, and adventure-loving bon vivants.

At Cuvée Wine Travel, we specialize in custom-curated trips for wine groups, golf clubs, families and friends — all led or designed by our founder, a certified sommelier. Think private Grand Cru tastings in Bordeaux. Yacht-hopping in Croatia. Culinary river cruises through Europe’s hidden-gem vineyards.

Because life’s too short for bad wine or boring vacations.

One group. One unforgettable journey. One bottle (okay, maybe more) at a time.

Dr. Kanema Clark is a neurological chiropractic specialist who wears many hats: a healer committed to whole-body wellness, a devoted wife and mother, Naples resident, Founder of The Avoda Project, and the reigning Mrs. Jamaica International 2025. With a Doctorate of Chiropractic from Palmer College and an undergraduate degree in Biology from the University of Miami, she seamlessly blends scientific rigor with spiritual empathy in her mission.

A CALLING TO HEAL: CHIROPRACTIC & WELLNESS

Kanema co-leads Breakthrough Health Centers alongside her husband, Dr. Drew Clark. Together, they run neurological chiropractic clinics in Bonita Springs and Fort Myers, offering specialized care such as upper cervical adjustments, neuropathy relief, spinal decompression, and SoftWave therapy.

Their treatment philosophy follows a personalized seven-step protocol— from consultation and neurological exams to correction, stabilization, and ongoing wellness care. Kanema emphasizes that genuine healing begins in the nerve system and radiates outward— mind, spirit, body.

MRS. JAMAICA INTERNATIONAL 2025: A PLATFORM FOR SERVICE

In 2024-25, Kanema earned the prestigious title of Mrs. Jamaica International, representing her Jamaican heritage on a global stage with a platform centered on faith, family, and service. This honor reinforced her role not as a symbol of beauty alone, but as a leader championing empowerment and change.

Through her pageant platform, she amplifies awareness of The Avoda Project and her clinical mission—voicing holistic wellness and sustainable outreach rooted in cultural pride and global responsibility.

THE AVODA PROJECT: BUILDING HOPE

The Avoda Project, founded by Kanema, is a nonprofit dedicated to restoring hope in underserved communities

Drs. Kanema and Drew Clark with patients
Drs. Kanema and Drew Clark & family

through tangible support—education, medical care, maternal wellness, and entrepreneurial training. Reflecting the Hebrew meaning “work” or “service,” the project aims to:

• Sponsor children in foster or low-income situations

• Deliver mission-based medical aid

• Support single mothers through mentorship and entrepreneurship

• Develop youth leadership in underserved areas

Kanema shares moving testimonials, such as a mother whose life was transformed thanks to Avoda’s support—and encouraging messages from individuals uplifted by its guidance.

FAMILY: THE FOUNDATION OF IT ALL

Behind every public accomplishment is Kanema’s foundation at home with her husband and their children. The couple embodies a partnership rooted in faith, mutual support, and shared vision.

Kanema often describes herself as “a wife, a mama, a business owner, a woman of faith” . They share daily life rituals—from afternoon family prayers to celebrating birthdays in clinic—including balancing entrepreneurship with raising their family.

INSPIRING FUTURE GENERATIONS

Kanema’s story resonates far beyond their clinic walls. As Mrs. Jamaica International, she promotes cultural identity, faith-led service, and female empowerment—while using her medical knowledge to uplift vulnerable communities. Through Avoda, she mentors next-generation leaders, transforming lives globally.

Her leadership exemplifies that wellness is holistic—spanning physical health, emotional strength, cultural dignity, and spiritual resilience.

The Avoda Project, reflecting the Hebrew meaning “work” or “service,” is grounded in 3 key principles:

1. Faith 2. Family

3. Freedom

INTEGRATING PRACTICE, ADVOCACY, AND FAMILY

The Clarks’ work reaches beyond their clinics, partnering with organizations like Shift Health Center and participating in mission-oriented health events. Together, they've authored two wellness books with purchases supporting Avoda's mission:

• The Breakthrough Body: a guide to chiropractic health and lifestyle

• Nerves in Distress: for addressing neuropathy with non-pharmaceutical interventions

FINAL THOUGHTS

LOOKING AHEAD: LEGACY IN MOTION

At the intersection of chiropractic care, nonprofit leadership, and pageantry, Dr. Kanema Clark is reshaping what it means to serve with purpose. With Drew and their children by her side—and with Avoda as her engine— she is building a legacy that transcends titles and clinics. Her journey shows that healing is not just about fixing spines— it’s about uplifting souls, empowering families, and creating ripple effects of positive change.

Dr. Kanema Clark’s multifaceted life—as neurologist, Mrs. Jamaica International, nonprofit founder, wife, and mother—serves as a testament to the transformative power of combining professional passion with personal purpose. She and her family illustrate how health, hope, and heritage can coexist to leave a mark that truly lasts.

Her story is a reminder that holistic wellness extends from the individual to communities and spans generations—one compassionate adjustment, one mentorship moment, and one mission at a time.

Tiki Fun, Beach Delights and Sunset Tours

Life happens. And you want to be ready when it does.

Let us help you take care of what matters most

Let us help you take care of what matters most

Getting to know you and what you care most about planning for college, taking care of an elder family member, passing a legacy to future generations, buying a second home is so important. Once we understand your priorities, together, we can help you pursue the goals you’ve set for yourself and your family. Call to learn more today.

Getting to know you and what you care most about — planning for college, taking care of an elder family member, passing a legacy to future generations, buying a second home — is so important. Once we understand your priorities, together, we can help you pursue the goals you’ve set for yourself and your family. Call to learn more today.

Martha “Lupe” Mercier, CFP®

Wealth Management Advisor

NMLS #: 518940

239.263.1431

martha_mercier@ml.com

Martha “Lupe” Mercier, CFP® Wealth Management Advisor

Merrill Lynch Wealth Management

NMLS #: 518940 239.263.1431

9128 Strada Place, STE 301 NAPLES, FL 34108

239.263.1431

martha_mercier@ml.com

http://fa.ml.com/mercier_group

Merrill Lynch Wealth Management 9128 Strada Place STE 301 NAPLES, FL 34108 239.263.1431 http://fa.ml.com/mercier_group

Aiding Kids & Pets

OTHER WORTHY CHARITABLE EFFORTS IN OUR PARADISE COAST

Laces of Love

1. Laces of Love accepts NEW sneakers and monetary donations that will help provide shoes to kids in need in Southwest Florida. They prioritize shoe sizes from school age sizes 1 to adult size 9, serving children from kindergarteners to high school seniors. Distribution occurs via Collier County public schools and partnering non-profits. Drop off new shoes today!   https://lacesoflove. org/get-involved

Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Sun Coast

2. Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Sun Coast provides one-to-one mentoring relationships to children ages 6-18 years old throughout the Gulf Coast of Florida. Donate: https://www.bbbssun.org/ donate-online or Volunteer https://www. bbbssun.org/volunteer today.

Humane Society Naples

5. Patty Baker Humane Society Naples is an independent nonprofit serving the public by providing care, shelter and placement into loving homes for orphaned animals in the Collier County area through pet adoptions. Donate, adopt, volunteer today: https://pbhsnaples.org

3. SWFL Children’s Charities, Inc. is a local nonprofit organization that is dedicated to saving children’s lives by supporting the region’s growing pediatric health care system. The SWFL Wine & Food Fest is its signature annual event: https://swflwinefest.org/ swfl-wine-food-fest

SWFL Children’s Charities St. Matthew's House

4. St. Matthew's House: Hunger doesn't take a vacation. Help them feed kids in need this summer and early school year. Top items needed: canned food, cereal, mac & cheese, peanut butter, rice, pasta, shelf-stable milk. Drop off donations at 2601 Airport Rd S, Naples, 34112 Mon-Sat, 9-5. Shop their Amazon wishlist and ship food directly too. See how you can help today:  https:// stmatthewshouse.org/how-youcan-help

Make Younger You Jealous

Emily James Art

Visit a Native Floridian Artist’s Gallery Today

Emily has received recognition of her talent through numerous awards and honors. She is the only artist in the United States selected by the top three fine art publishers, and two of her images have been among the top 50 selling prints worldwide. Emily was also selected as an Outstanding American Woman in the Arts, and is a signature member of the Florida Watercolor Society, being featured in the book, ‘The Best of Watercolor’. With her acrylics and oils on canvas, Emily has also received numerous Best-in-Show ribbons. Known for her versatility in both subject and style, she enjoys painting landscapes, seascapes, abstracts, contemporary works, and portraits. Emily specializes in creating custom artwork with the feeling, colors, and subjects the owner will enjoy viewing.

AUGUST 2025

events

A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS

AUGUST 7TH

ROOKERY BAY ART

GALLERY RECEPTION

Rookery Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve Rookery Bay, 300 Tower Rd. Naples, 34113 | 5:30 PM

Join Rookery Bay for a free opening reception that will include wine, beer, light bites, an art gallery display, and an artist award presentation.

AUGUST 21ST

Bayshore Arts District's Embellished Wearable Arts Fashion Show

Dimension Nightclub at 2634 Tamiami Trail East, 34112 | 7PM

Broadway, Beethoven & Bon Jovi, a celebration of local fashion, design, and community. Their mission is to bring more creatives to live and work in Bayshore by renting the second floor above Key Foods, and expand the space to support over 100 artists.

AUGUST 30TH - 31ST

WATERLILY WEEKEND

Naples Botanical Garden 4820

Bayshore Drive Naples, 34112

The Garden curates a growing collection of waterlilies with nearly 500 diverse specimens on display throughout our many aquatic gardens. This two-day festival on August 30 & 31 from 9am – 2pm will celebrate these water nymphs with special tours, demonstrations, and more when these blooming beauties are at their peak. $10 Member/$15 Non-Member.

Grass Without Limits

If you want to be free of the burden and time required to mow, water, and care for your lawn, ForeverLawn® synthetic turf is a perfect option. With the number of different artificial turf types that we offer, you are likely to find the right one for all of your artificial grass needs. Just built a new home? Put in a new pool? Tired of paying hefty monthly maintenance fees or water bills to maintain your lawn? ForeverLawn® is the solution for you.

Low maintenance, durable, versatile, sustainable, & cost effective - while looking perfectly manicured! Call us at 239-202-0332 or email us at info@swfl.foreverlawn.com today for a quote!

Mac and Cheese? NOT AGAIN!

KID-FRIENDLY RESTAURANTS IN OUR PARADISE COAST THAT PARENTS AND GRANDPARENTS LOVE TOO

For a foodie parent or grandparent, it can be so disheartening to find out a restaurant you really want to go to doesn’t have menu items to accommodate your littlest humans, so this month, Mr. Bites brings to you his family-approved seal of approval for places you can go with children and still have a great meal.

Obvious, but no less terrific, is the one of the best pizza joints in SWFL, LowBrow Pizza and Beer.  Their wood-fired pizzas are perfectly charred with the absolute best tangy, not-too-sweet sauce. Not only do they have a massive slate of creatively named pies like the delicious ‘Cortez the Killer’ and the ‘Pep-A-Broni’, but the Pizza Bones are addictive, and the healthy-minded can order the ‘Dad Bod Salad’. Great variety and flavor for kids and adults alike!

Our next worthy family spot is probably my favorite restaurant in town, Bicyclette Cookshop. Now, I could go on and on about the wine list, the porchetta, the bugles and caviar, but the thing that gets this on my family-approved list is their kids’ menu, or ‘Happy Meals’. The menu is small, but if I can eat at a great spot AND have my kids happily munching on homemade Dino Nuggets with steak fries and soft serve, that’s a win-win-win (to quote the great Michael Scott).

Our final stop is a personal one, as Mr. Bites’s own offspring swears by Sea Salt’s Tagliatelle Wagyu Bolognese. This and their kids menu, inclusive of King Salmon and other options, make it a great place to take the kiddos. The rest of their menu is spot on too, offering some of the finest seafood and ocean-inspired dishes as their name suggests. Add a delicious wine from their diverse list and you’ll keep everyone happy.

Yours in kid-friendly deliciousness, Mr. Bites

Kid-Friendly Restaurants

You want to treat your (grand)kids to dinner out. You need options for the youngsters while also being able to enjoy your dining experience. If any of the kids are under 12, a cold sweat drips down your spine as you dial your chosen restaurant and ask..."do you have a kids menu?".

LowBrow Pizza & Beer's Pizza Bones
Sea Salt's Tagliatelle Wagyu Beef Bolognese
Bicyclette Cookshop's Dino Nuggets

MARCO ISLAND YACHT CLUB

The newly renovated spectacular Marco Island Yacht Club is alive and well. Your social club for the Island! Offering something for everyone. Happy hours, live music, sunset cruises, day cruises, wine and dine nights, parties and themed events, boater’s night, holiday specials, and so much more!

No boat, no worries! Call for your private tour!

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