Neapolitan Family December 2021 Digital issue

DECEMBER 2021

COMPLIMENTARY

THE HOLIDAY ISSUE Scan & Shop Local Gift Guide • Holiday Events Where to Thrift Your Gifts

NEAPOLITANfamily • December 2021

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NEAPOLITANfamily • December 2021

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For details and to register, go to https://BizKidzExpo.com NEAPOLITANfamily • December 2021

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December 2021 TABLE OF CONTENTS

in every issue . . .

7

FROM THE PUBLISHER

8

YOUR COMMUNITY

10

COLLIER COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOLS UPDATE

on the cover…

11 5 Fun Facts About Chanukah.

Learn more about the Festival of Lights.

by Rabbi Ariel Boxman 12 Family Holiday Fun. The best family-friendly holiday events in SWFL. 18 Thrift Your Gift. If your holiday shopping budget is smaller this year, or you just want to try something new, consider second-hand stores.

The Corbellini family of Naples consists of two sets of twins: Hanna (second from left) and Addison, both 14, are identical. Hunter (left) and Zachary, both 10, are fraternal.

The girls are freshmen at Gulf Coast High School, while the boys are in fifth grade at Naples Classical Academy. The family celebrates both Hanukkah and Christmas.

According to their mom, Maxine, the kids are very close and are always there for each other. The family enjoys traveling together and showing support for the siblings at sports and school events.

20 Shop Local Holiday Gift Guide.

Forget about shipping delays and support local businesses.

You’ll discover great gifts for all ages on these pages.

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28 Destination: Tarpon Springs.

Find out why you need to experience the sponges, the cross, and Mama’s saganaki.

by Karen T. Bartlett

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Cover photo by Monica Alvarez of Monica Alvarez Photography www.monicaalvarezphotography.com 305-815-3495 info@monicaalvarezphotography.com

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NEAPOLITANfamily • December 2021

from the publisher… the parenting magazine devoted to collier county

P.O. Box 110656 Naples, FL 34108 info@neafamily.com 2021

2021

2020

THIS MONTH Shop Local for the Holidays

2021

2020

Co-Publisher Leigh Ann Newman lanewman@neafamily.com 239-272-0529 Co-Publisher Stacy Nicolau snicolau@neafamily.com 239-370-5333 Travel Editor Karen T. Bartlett mostlykidsguides@gmail.com 239-595-9026 Feature Writer Anna Snyder Editorial submissions are welcome. We reserve the right to edit, reject, or comment editorially on all material contributed. We cannot be responsible for return of any unsolicited materials.

Articles and advertisements in Neapolitan Family do not necessarily reflect the opinion of the publisher nor does the publisher assume responsibility for statements made by our advertisers or editorial contributors. Acceptance of advertising by Neapolitan Family does not constitute an endorsement of the products, services, or information. We do not knowingly present any product or service that is fraudulent or misleading in nature. Neapolitan Family is available free of charge at distribution points throughout Collier County, as well as digitally at https://neafamily.com. Neapolitan Family is ©2021 by Neapolitan Family Publishing LLC. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part without written permission is strictly prohibited.

NEAPOLITANfamily • December 2021

I’ve done it more than once – ordered from Amazon and not paid attention to the delivery date, only to discover days later that whatever I so desperately needed won’t arrive for 6-12 weeks. We had all become accustomed to things showing up magically at our front door a day or two after hitting submit order. Swift deliveries have become the exception, and it has motivated me to keep more of my shopping dollars in SWFL. For the second year in a row (does that qualify as a tradition?), we have put together our Shop Local Holiday Gift Guide, starting on page 20. As a small locally owned business, Neapolitan Family is dedicated to supporting and promoting other local businesses and organizations.

We also look at thrift shopping for the holidays on page 18. Many of us shy away from considering second-hand items for gifts, but you never know what you might discover on a treasure hunt through the numerous thrift and consignment stores in our area. Don’t we all have that friend who bought a piece of jewelry for $12, only to find out later that it is worth $12,000? This unfortunately has never happened to me.

We would like to thank all of our advertisers, readers, and community sponsors for their generous support and encouragement through this past year. Here’s to a less interesting 2022!

Happy Holidays!

Correction

In the “Destination: Animal Sanctuaries” article in our November issue, the photographer of this adorable photo of Daphne the pig at Rooterville Animal Sanctuary was misidentified. The photo was provided by the sanctuary. In addition, we wish to clarify that at The Bird Gardens of Naples, guests do not handle residents of the sanctuary. Romeo, pictured to the right, and the other bird ambassadors that greet guests after the tour were adopted by members of the community. We regret the errors. neafamily.com

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YOUR COMMUNITY NEWS & EVENTS

Renovated Conservancy Nature Center Reopens Dec. 18

T

he Conservancy of Southwest Florida Nature Center is reopening Dec. 18 to members and visitors after the completion of a $5 million renovation and expansion of its Susan and William Dalton Discovery Center. A grand reopening celebration is planned for 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Dec. 18. The event is free to members and children ages 2 and younger. Admission for non-members is $17.95 for adults and $9.95 for children ages 3-12. Activities include a guided nature walk; story time in the Little Explorer Play Zone; educational talks focusing on climate change, wildlife, and invasive species; and tours and activities in the conservancy’s new mobile classroom.

Beginning Dec. 21, the nature center will be open Tuesday to Saturday from 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Visit https://conservancy.org.

CCPS Students Named to Florida All-State Music Ensembles

T

he Florida Music Education Association has named its AllState band, orchestra, and chorus members from thousands of middle and high school students across the state. Being selected for an All-State ensemble is the highest honor a Florida student musician can receive. These students travel to Tampa in January for the 2022 FMEA conference.

Symphonic Band (11-12) Ellie Carvajal, Palmetto Ridge High School Connor Casey, Gulf Coast High School Dawson Huynh, Naples High School Symphonic Orchestra (11-12) Osei Allen, Gulf Coast High School Alondra Damian-Noyola, Gulf Coast High School Amanda Marcy, Naples High School Concert Band (9-10) Preston Came, Gulf Coast High School Christian Gonzalez-Villa, Golden Gate High School Tricia Jackson, Gulf Coast High School Trey Leslie, Barron Collier High School Daoyi Liu, Barron Collier High School 8

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NEAPOLITANfamily • December 2021

High School Jazz Band Christian Sochor, Barron Collier High School Concert Orchestra (9-10) Michael Marcy, Naples High School Lucia Marti Garro, Gulf Coast High School Celine Schauer, Marco Island Academy Rachel Torres, Gulf Coast High School Middle School Band Trevor Ball, Oakridge Middle School John Carvajal, Cypress Palm Middle School Jocelyn Chalick, North Naples Middle School Rachel Kastner, Oakridge Middle School Middle School Orchestra Katherine Anderson, Mason Classical Academy Julianne Elwell, Gulfview Middle School

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9th-12th Grade Honors Orchestra Teo Castro-Juarez, Palmetto Ridge High School Ryan Robinson, Palmetto Ridge High School 7th & 8th Grade Honor Band Eliseo Hernandez, Manatee Middle School Fintan O’Keefe, Pine Ridge Middle School 7th & 8th Grade Honors Orchestra Lola Estrem, Pine Ridge Middle School Madeline Loeffler, Cypress Palm Middle School Gabriella Martinez, Oakridge Middle School Katie Ruci, Pine Ridge Middle School High School Reading Chorus Grace Russell, Gulf Coast High School Senior High SSAA Chorus Cara Naso, Palmetto Ridge High School Rebecca Zamora, Gulf Coast High School Senior High TTBB Chorus Jackson Parry, Naples High School

bl

Middle School Mixed Chorus Brooklynn Falcone, North Naples Middle School Jayde Naas, Cypress Palm Middle School Middle School Treble Chorus Sophia Bosco, North Naples Middle School Jadyn Brachle, Oakridge Middle School

NEAPOLITANfamily • December 2021

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COLLIER COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOLS

A

By Jennifer L. Kupiec

CCPS Breaks Ground on New High School

new state-of-the-art high school is coming to Collier County. Last month, school officials, board members, business partners, dignitaries, and a future student gathered to break ground on the 60-acre site in North Naples, set to open August 2023.

“This will be a campus like none other,” said Erick Carter, Collier County Public Schools board chair, during the groundbreaking event. “It will be a place that will foster critical thinking, curiosity, collaboration, creativity, and character.”

The plot of land was purchased in 2001 thanks to the forethought of former board members and educational leaders.

Imagine what a piece of property that size would cost in today’s real estate market.

Additionally, the community can be proud to know that the school will be paid in full with no need to borrow money, and the district remains on track to be debt-free by 2026.

The high school, currently known as High School GGG, will sit just west of Veterans Memorial Elementary School, on the Veterans Memorial Boulevard extension. Its design will foster 21stcentury learning to prepare students for both the current workforce and the careers of tomorrow. Hands-on learning will be embedded throughout five career academies: Engineering, Health Science, Information Technology, Entrepreneurship and Finance, and Law Studies.

Renderings show a compact, multistory building designed to minimize the footprint and preserve much of what makes this property uniquely southwest Florida – wetlands, cypress trees, native flowers, and a wildlife habitat. The building will be oriented toward a cypress dome to maximize views and the pristine nature of the property. “An environmental theme

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Collier County School District Board Chair Erick Carter, student Cole Woessner, and Superintendent Kamela Patton, Ph.D., break ground on High School GGG. will be what this school has,” explained Kamela Patton, Ph.D., CCPS superintendent of schools. “We are very proud of trying to preserve and keep this site as unique as we can.”

Other special features include a 1,350-seat performing arts center, the balcony of which can be transformed into multiple spaces such as a large classroom, professional development presentation room, theater in the round for drama classes, or a multi-purpose setup for wrestling, cheerleading, or dance practice.

The “town square” of the school, known as The Commons, offers bright spaces with floor-to-ceiling windows

where students will eat and learn together.

The school’s sports complex will feature a 4,000-seat stadium, expansive green areas for field sports, seating for 300 at both the baseball and softball fields, and seating for more than 100 at the tennis center.

“We are extremely excited for the opportunities the high school will bring to our community,” added Patton. “When the school opens in August of 2023, it will have been 19 years since CCPS opened a high school.”

Attendance boundary lines, school name, and school leadership all will be determined before August 2023. For updates, visit www.collierschools.com/ggg.

NEAPOLITANfamily • December 2021

The Ultimate List of Children’s Books About Chanukah

5 Fun Facts About Chanukah

For babies 6 months to 2 years old Dreidel Day by Amalia Hoffman During Hanukkah, every day is a dreidel day!

Little ones will love counting along with the kitty in this book as the holiday progresses from 1 to 8.

Hanukkah Delight! by Lesléa Newman Gather round to light the menorah, spin the dreidel, eat latkes, and sing songs! Hanukkah rituals are always delightful – especially when bunnies are involved.

For toddlers 2-3 years old Photo by Peggy Farren

By Rabbi Ariel Boxman, Director of Lifelong Learning, Temple Shalom

C 

hanukah is finally here, and we couldn’t be more excited! As we prepare to celebrate the Festival of Lights, I hope you will enjoy these fun facts about the holiday.

There are multiple ways to spell Chanukah. Because Chanukah is simply the transliteration of the Hebrew word, there is no one correct English spelling. You can spell it pretty much any way you like. Take your pick! Chanukah, Hannukah, Channukah, Hanukkah, etc.

Fried foods are a must! On Chanukah we celebrate the miracle of the oil lasting eight days (which was supposed to last only one). In addition to jelly filled donuts and fried potato pancakes, pretty much anything fried in oil is “kosher” for Chanukah.

Enjoy all those yummy, oily, fried foods and know you are simply celebrating the Chanukah miracle by eating them!

Israeli dreidels have different letters on them than U.S. dreidels. The dreidel (spinning top) that we are familiar with has the letters nun, gimmel, dalet, and shin. The letters stand for the Hebrew phrase, “Nes gadol hayah sham,” or in English, “A great miracle happened there.” Since the “there” is referring to Israel, the dreidels in Israel have a slightly different variation. Israeli dreidels have the same first three Hebrew letters, but instead a shin (for sham/there), it has a letter pey that stands for po or, in English, here. Thus, the letters of the Israeli dreidel stand for “A great miracle happened here.”

The holiday of Chanukah is one of the only holidays not mentioned in the Torah. Whereas the majority of Jewish holidays originate and are discussed in the Torah (Five Books of Moses), Chanukah is not included. The holiday came about after the Torah was written. Chanukah is considered a minor Jewish holiday compared to the big ones like Rosh Hashanah and Passover.

A box of Chanukah candles has the exact number of candles to last you eight nights. During Chanukah we light our menorah each night using the shamash (helper candle) to light the others. Each night we add another candle to the menorah until we reach a total of eight candles on the final night. Boxes of Chanukah candles traditionally have 44 candles in them in order to provide you with the exact number of candles you need for the entire holiday. Just be careful you don’t accidentally break any, or you will be short one night.

I hope you have enjoyed these fun facts about Chanukah and have a wonderful time celebrating with your family and loved ones.









NEAPOLITANfamily • December 2021

Biscuit’s Hanukkah

by Alyssa Satin Capucilli Hanukkah is all about sharing fun, food, and festivity with family and friends – even your furry ones. Right, Biscuit?

Hanukkah Haiku by Harriet Ziefert The traditional Japanese poetic form, coupled with stepped illustrations, make a lovely way to celebrate the Festival of Lights.

For kindergartners 5-6 years old Hanukkah Bear by Eric Kimmel Bubba Brayna has invited the rabbi to join her in a lovely Hanukkah dinner! But Bubba Brayna is very old, and she doesn’t see very well. When a guest arrives at her door, she thinks it’s the rabbi ... but it’s not. And this guest is hungry!

A Hanukkah With Mazel by Joel Stein Poor Misha! He spends Hanukkah all by his lonesome. That is until Mazel, a hungry barn cat, strolls into his life. Misha may not have enough money to light Hanukkah candles, but with a little luck – or Mazel! –he can use his art to bring some light to the holiday.

Reprinted with permission from PJLibrary.org. PJ Library sends free, award-winning books each month that celebrate Jewish values and culture to families with children from birth through 12 years old. neafamily.com

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Family Holiday Fun in SWFL Johnsonville Night Lights in the Garden. Through Jan. 2, check for times. Closed Dec. 24, 25, and 31. Naples Botanical Garden.

Stroll pathways illuminated with millions of lights while listening to live music. Visit www.naplesgarden.org.

Victoria Park. Located in North Naples off Airport Road, south of Immokalee Road. The most over-the-top holiday lights displays in town. Be prepared for a VERY slow drive. FREE Christmas Tree Sales. Through Dec. 21 (or until sold out), check for times. Collier Fair, Naples. Trees range from 3 to 12 feet tall.

Visit https://collierfair.com/christmas-tree-sales.

Holly Jolly Christmas. Selected dates and times through Dec. 25. Broadway Palm Theatre, Fort Myers. Dancing and traditional holiday favorite songs. Visit https://broadwaypalm.com.

Holiday Nights. Through Jan. 2, 5:30-9 p.m. Closed Dec. 25. Edison & Ford Winter Estates, Fort Myers. Thousands of lights, Santa, live music, and more. Visit www.edisonfordwinterestates.org.

Santa’s Wonderland 2021. Through Dec. 24, check for times.

Bass Pro Shops, Estero. Free photos with Santa. Giveaways. Visit www.basspro.com. FREE Christmas Festival. Through Jan. 3, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Springtime Farm Adventure Park, North Fort Myers. Maze, decorated trees, animals, and more. Visit www.springtimeplantfarm.com.

Photos with Santa. Through Dec. 21, check for times. Coastland Center Mall, Naples. Reservations encouraged. Pet photos available on select days.

Call 239-262-2323 or visit www.coastlandcenter.com.

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One- and Two-Day Options Available Monday-Thursday, 9 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.

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NEAPOLITANfamily • December 2021

Teas and Trees Festival. Through Dec. 19, closed Mondays.

Sugden Theatre, Naples. Sponsored by The Naples Players.

Stroll through a wonderland of artist-designed themed holiday trees while enjoying teas and listening to live music. Visit https:// naplesplayers.org.

Christmas Tree Lighting & Holiday Cirque Experience.

Dec. 1, 5-8 p.m. Mercato Shops, Naples. Live music and dance performances, face painting, and Torrie The World’s Tallest Elf will be handing out Santa’s magic glasses. Visit www. mercatoshops.com. FREE Festival of Trees. Dec. 2-5, check for times. Santa’s Block Party on Dec. 4, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Sidney & Berne Davis Art Center, Fort Myers. Beautifully decorated trees, activities, and live music, including The Ben Allen Band. Visit www.sbdac.com.

Tha nk you f or your continue d s up p ort ...

We Are Grateful

Holiday Hootenanny. Dec. 2, 4-7 p.m. Rookery Bay Environmental Learning Center, Naples. One-night-only specials in nature store, membership discounts, refreshments, holiday movies, kids’ crafts, music, book signings, reindeer games, prizes, and more. Visit https://rookerybay.org.

Teen Gingerbread House Decorating. Dec. 2, 5-6 p.m. Bonita Springs Public Library. Decorate while listening to some holiday tunes. Ages 11-17. Space is limited to 10; first come, first served.

Visit www.leegov.com/library. FREE Hanukkah Workshop. Dec. 2, 6:30-7:30 p.m. Headquarters Library, Naples. Celebrate Hanukkah with stories, songs, crafts, and an edible craft treat. Visit www.collierlibrary.org. FREE Christmas Walk and Tree Lighting Ceremony.

Dec. 3-4, 5-10 p.m. Downtown Naples. Skating rink, live music, Santa Claus, dining on Fifth Avenue, living nativity, and more. Visit www. fifthavenuesouth.com. FREE

Spend the holidays in your dream home. Contact us to start your homebuying journey!

White Christmas Sing-Along. Dec. 3, 6-8 p.m. Collier Museum at Government Center, Naples. Watch this holiday favorite under the stars. Bring your own chairs. Visit https://colliermuseums.com.

Breakfast with Santa. Dec. 4, 9-11 a.m. Immokalee Community Park. Cookie decorating, sweet treats, crafts, and photos with Santa. $5. Visit www.collierparks.com.

Science and Santa Holiday Cruise. Dec. 4, 9-11:30 a.m. Pure Florida, Naples. Holiday-themed science experiments with Mr. Glen, crafts, Santa, and character meet and greets. Visit www.purefl.com.

Santa’s Celebration. Dec. 4, 10 a.m. to 12 p.m.

Golden Gate Community Center, Naples. All ages. Celebrate the beginning of the holidays with a Christmas show and cookie decorating. $3.

Register at www.collierparks.com.

Holiday Bazaar. Dec. 4, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Koreshan State Park, Estero. Arts & crafts, street food, and maybe even a visit from Santa! Visit https://friendsofkoreshan.org.

NEAPOLITANfamily • December 2021

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Deck the Depot: Kids’ Cookie Decorating. Dec. 4, 2 p.m. Naples Depot Museum. Cookie decorating class. Registration required.

Visit https://colliermuseums.com. FREE Miguel Argumosa, DMD, Erin M. Taylor, DMD, Nicole Eastham, DMD Sarah Vanderbosch, DMD Board Certified Pediatric Dentists

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Winter Party. Dec. 4, 3-4 p.m. Vanderbilt Beach Library, Naples.

Games, crafts, hot chocolate, and music. Ages 3+. Registration required. Visit www.collierlibrary.org. FREE SnowFest. Dec. 4, 3-9 p.m. Golden Gate Community Center, Naples. Join us for an avalanche of whiteout fun. Snow, carnival games and rides, entertainment, hands-on arts & crafts, food vendors, and more. $2 per person; free for ages 3 and younger. Register at www. collierparks.com.

The Nutcracker. Dec. 4, 3 p.m. & 8 p.m. Barbara B. Mann Performing Arts Hall, Fort Myers. The Gulfshore Ballet and the Gulf Coast Symphony present the timeless Tchaikovsky holiday classic. Visit https://gulfcoastsymphony.org.

Meet Santa. Dec. 4 & 5, 4-9 p.m. Galleria Shoppes at Vanderbilt, Naples. Free photos with Santa, vendors, snow, live music, and more. Visit www.shopvanderbilt.com. FREE

Most Insurances Accepted

Holiday Festival of Lights. Dec. 4, 4-10 p.m. Cape Coral Parkway East. Photos with Santa, slide down a snow drift, ride the Tiny Tot train, watch the tree lighting, enjoy live entertainment, and shop in the holiday village.

Visit www.holidayfestivalcc.com. FREE Fort Myers Beach Christmas Boat Parade. Dec. 4, 6-8 p.m. Watch more than 30 decorated boats start at Salty Sam’s Marina and then pass though Matanzas Harbor and the first two canals of Siesta Isles. Visit www.fmbboatparade.com. FREE

A lifelong joy of learning, An education for life.

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Daily hours from 7:30 A.M. to 5:30 P.M.

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Sensory-Friendly Photos with Santa. Dec. 5 & 12, 9:3010:30 a.m. Coastland Center Mall, Naples. Photos with Santa for children with special needs before the mall opens to the public. Reservations encouraged. Call 239-262-2323 or visit www.coastlandcenter.com.

Naples Moms Holiday Shop & Play. Dec. 5, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Baker Park, Naples. Touch trucks, photos with Santa, fun food options, face painting, bounce houses, games, giveaways, local vendors, and more. FREE DIY Ugly Holiday Shirt. Dec. 7, 5:30-6:30 p.m.

South County Regional Library, Estero. Ages 11-18.

Create a crazy and tacky holiday shirt with unusual materials. Visit www.leegov.com/library. FREE Christmas Parade. Dec. 7, 6 p.m. Naples. The parade begins on Broad Street South and ends on 8th Street South. Visit www. fifthavenuesouth.com. FREE Winter Wonderland. Dec. 9, 10:30-11 a.m. Bonita Springs Public Library. Ages 2-5. Play in the “snow” and create snowmen.

Come dressed for mess. Space is limited to 10; first come, first served. Visit www.leegov.com/library. FREE NEAPOLITANfamily • December 2021

YOUR COMMUNITY NEWS & EVENTS Tuba Christmas. Dec. 9, 6:30-7:30 p.m. Sugden Plaza, Naples.

A remarkable evening of music from sousaphone, euphonium, tuba, and baritone players. Visit www.fifthavenuesouth.com.

FREE Jingle Bell Bash. Dec. 10, 6-7:30 p.m. Golisano Children’s Museum of Naples. Holiday and winter-inspired games and activities, gingerbread house-building, visits with Santa Claus, and a snowy surprise. Secure your spot – this event will sell out. Visit https:// cmon.org.

Deck the Depot: Cocoa and Caroling. Dec. 10, 6-8 p.m. Naples Depot Museum. Cocoa and caroling with the Naples Carolers. Visit https://colliermuseums. com. FREE Holiday Kids’ Night Out. Dec. 10, 6-8:30 p.m. East Naples Community Park. A holiday-themed evening with games and activities, as well as Santa himself. $10. Register at www. collierparks.com.

Christmas Party. Dec. 10, 6:30-8:30 p.m. Max Hasse Jr. Community Park, Naples. Ages 5-11. Holiday fun for kids while parents have a night out. Music, crafts, and a slice of pizza and a drink. $10. Visit www.collierparks.com.

Live Nativity. Dec. 10-12, 6-8 p.m. Seagate Baptist Church, Naples.

Live animals, costumed characters, a gift for each family, Christmas story reenactment, and children’s presentation at 7 p.m. Registration recommended. Visit www.napleslivenativity.com. FREE

Naples Christmas Celebration. Dec. 10 & 12, 7 p.m.; Dec. 12, 4 p.m. First Baptist Church of Naples. New and traditional Christmas songs, nativity presentation, Christmas village, and more. Free admission, but reservations are required. Visit https://fbcn.org/ ncc. FREE

New Minature Horse Program at Naples Therapeutic Riding Center

A

$100,000 from the Foundation Cookies & Milk grant with Santa.

Dec.Virginia 11, 9-11 B. a.m.Toulmin Donna Fiala Eagle funding a new miniature horse therapy Naples LakesisPark Community Center, Naples.

Enjoy a program treat withatSanta.

Therapeutic Riding Center a nonprofit organization Ages 6 months to 12 years. $2.(NTRC), Registration required. Visit www. collierparks.com. providing therapeutic horseback riding and other equine-facilitated services to children and adults with physical, social, and mental

Gingerbread health needs. House Workshop. Dec. 11, 10-11 a.m. Headquarters Naples.

Decorate a cookie house with delicious TwoLibrary, miniature horses, Toulmin and Itty Bitty, were donated treats. Ages 2 years and older. Registration required. Visit www. to NTRC. Miniature horses, known as “minis”, are similar to their collierlibrary.org. FREE

full-sized equine partners in terms of personality, intelligence, and disposition.

The grantDec. was 11 used to improve to ensure Visits with Santa. & 18, 10 a.m. tothe 12 facilities p.m. Waterside the safety of the minis as well as fund the new position of equine Shops, Naples. Mr. and Mrs. Claus invite you to capture this special resource manager to implement and facilitate the program. moment. Personal cameras welcome. Visit www.watersideshops.

In addition com/santa.

FREE to having the minis on site at the riding center, NTRC’s new mini traveling program will bring the therapeutic Holiday Spectacular.

Dec. 11, 1 p.m.through Norris Southwest Center, benefits ofScience horses to worksites and organizations Naples.

Mr. Glen hospitals, combinesschools, humor,hospices, action, nursing and educational Florida, including homes, and content on stage. $6. Visit www.naplesgov.com. rehabilitation centers.

Visit www.naplestherapeuticridingcenter.org.

Craft Time with Santa. Dec. 11, 2-3 p.m. Estates Library, Naples. Make a Christmas ornament and visit with Left: All Camryn withnot miniature horse Toulmin.

Santa. ages. Ramsey Registration required.

Visit www. collierlibrary.org. FREE

Happy kids. Sparkly smiles.

Dr. Sandor.

Naples’ Favorite Pediatric Dentist

Naples Pediatric Dentistry

239.592.0800

Specialty care for infants drmarilynsandor.com Naples Pediatric Dentistry Care for toSpecialty adolescents 239.592.0800 Infants to Adolescents Sedation IVIVNitrous sedation www.drmarilynsandor.com Oxide Nitrous Oxide

Marilyn Sandor, DDS, MS was instrumental in helping develop the Zooby product line.

10 neafamily.com • December 2021 NEAPOLITANfamily

NEAPOLITANfamilyneafamily.com • January 2021 15

Family Movie Night: The Santa Clause. Dec. 11, 5-9 p.m. Lulu’s Kitchen at St. Matthew’s House, Naples.

An evening of music, food, and The Santa Clause movie outdoors under the stars. Bring your own blankets and lawn chairs. Visit https://stmatthewshouse.org.

Bonita Springs Christmas Boat Parade. Dec. 11, 5:30 p.m. Parade starts at the Bay Water Boat Club on the Imperial River. Check www.bonitaboatparade.com. FREE Naples Christmas Boat Parade. Dec. 11, 6:15-8:30 p.m. View the parade from Naples City Dock, Pinchers Tin City, Riverwalk Restaurant, Naples Landing, Kelly’s Fish House, The Boat House, and Bayview Park. Check www.miacc.org. FREE Marco Island Christmas Street Parade. Dec. 11, 6:30 p.m. Come out to the street parade for some great holiday fun. Visit www. christmasislandstyle.com. FREE Breakfast with Santa. Dec. 12, 9-11 a.m. Reservations required.

Shell Factory & Nature Park, Fort Myers. Visit www.shellfactory.com.

Holiday Dance Party. Dec. 16, 10:30-11 a.m. Bonita Springs Public Library. Ages 2-5. Dance along to holiday favorites. Cool down with bubbles and toy time after the dance. Space is limited. Visit www.leegov.com/library. FREE Holiday Cookie Decorating. Dec. 16, 3:30-4:30 p.m. Golden Gate Library, Naples. Create a holiday craft and decorate cookies.

Registration is required. Visit www.collierlibrary.org. FREE Holiday Pops. Dec. 16-19. Check for times. ArtisNaples. Usher in the holidays with a program of timeless classics and modern hits of the holiday season.

Visit https://artisnaples.org.

A Clydesdale Christmas. Dec. 17, 5-7 p.m. Chick-fil-A, Estero.

Take photos with Clydesdale horse and carriage. Snow flurries, hot cocoa bar, and writing letters to Santa. Visit www.chick-fil-a. com/estero. FREE Candlelight Christmas Carols. Dec. 17, 5:30-8 p.m. Cambier Park, Naples. Caroling starts at 6:30. Food truck onsite. Check page 6 for more details. Visit https://carolsatcambier.com. FREE

Special Santa Claus Storytime. Dec. 15, 4:30-5:30 p.m.

South Regional Library, Naples. Sing, play, and make a themed craft to take home. Registration is required.

Visit www.collierlibrary.org. FREE

Rudolph and Friends. Dec. 17, 6-8 p.m. Vineyards Community Park, Naples. Festive fun and marvelous merrymaking. Registration strongly recommended. $10. Register at www.collierparks.com.

Naples Carolers. Dec. 15, 5-6 p.m. South Regional Library, Naples.

Dressed in elegant Victorian garb, this vocal quartet will perform holiday classics. Visit www.collierlibrary.org. FREE

Christmas-themed Kids’ Night Out. Dec. 17, 6-8:30 p.m. Donna Fiala Eagle Lakes Park Community Center, Naples. Ages 5-11.

Games, activities, dinner, movie. $10. Visit www.collierparks.com.

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NEAPOLITANfamily • December 2021

Deck the Depot: Photos with Santa. Dec. 18, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Naples Depot Museum. Free photos with Santa, kids activities, and more. Visit https://colliermuseums.com. FREE Christmas Market. Dec. 18, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.; Dec. 19, 12-5 p.m. Bell Tower Shops, Fort Myers. Photos with Santa, local artisans, music. Visit www.belltowerfl.com. FREE Cowboy Christmas. Dec. 18, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Immokalee Pioneer Museum at Roberts Ranch. Merry Ranchmas! Photos with Santa, candy, and more. The first 50 children make a horse ornament. Reservations not required. Visit https:// colliermuseums.com. FREE Build Your Own Gingerbread House. Dec. 18, 12-3 p.m. South County Regional Library, Estero.

Register by Dec. 18 at 12 p.m. Stop in to make your own gingerbread house, or assemble at home. Supplies provided. All ages. Visit www. leegov.com/library. FREE Holiday Make and Take. Dec. 18, 2-3 p.m. Marco Island Library.

Create a decoration or present. An assortment of craft projects will be provided. Ages 5-10. Registration not required. Visit www.collierlibrary.org. FREE Christmas Concert. Dec. 18, 5 p.m.; and Dec. 19, 4 p.m., Trinity-by-the-Cove Episcopal Church, Naples. This annual tradition features the church choir presenting beloved Christmas carols, enhanced by local musicians from the Naples Philharmonic. Donations welcomed. Visit www.trinitybythecove.com. FREE

NACS Naples Adventist Christian School

We are a K-8th grade school centrally located in Naples. We are proud to have a committed staff teaching a nationally certified and accredited curriculum in a Christ-filled environment. We accept Step Up For Students and Florida Empowerment scholarships. The NACS family exists to show children Jesus, teach them to think, and empower them to serve. All students are welcome!

Contact us to schedule a visit, or explore online.

2629 S. Horseshoe Drive, Naples, FL 34104 239-261-NACS (6227) • nacs@flcoe.org www.NaplesACS.org

WWW.TEMPLESHALOMPRESCHOOLNAPLES.ORG

Marco Island Christmas Island Style Boat Parade. Dec. 18, 6-9 p.m. Watch decorated boats sailing up and down the Marco River. Visit www.christmasislandstyle.com. FREE Holiday Craft Workshop. Dec. 21, 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. Headquarters Library, Naples. Celebrate the holidays by creating a variety of crafts. Ages 18 months-6 years. Registration not required. Visit www.collierlibrary.org. FREE

Baby & Me

Baby & Me

Movies on the Lawn: Elf. Dec. 21, 5:45 p.m. Mercato Shops, Naples. Gates open at 4:45. Movie starts at 5:45. Visit www. mercatoshops.com. FREE The Nutcracker. Dec. 21 & 22, 7 p.m. Artis-Naples. Young dancers from Naples Ballet, professional soloists, and the Naples Philharmonic bring this timeless tale to life. Visit https://artisnaples.org.

Holiday Movies: The Grinch. Dec. 22, 3 p.m. Immokalee Library, Immokalee. Rated PG, 85 minutes. Registration not required. Visit www.collierlibrary.org. FREE

Find even more family-friendly holiday events on our online calendar.

Just scan here.

NEAPOLITANfamily • December 2021

a

Mondays and Fridays 9:00am-11:00am 0-2 Year Olds

Sensory Activities - Baby Sign Language Music - Storytime - Yoga - Tummy Time - Bonding For more information or to schedule a tour: 239-455-3227 preschool@naplestemple.org

Mondays ONLY: $130/month Fridays ONLY: $130/month Mondays and Fridays: $200/month

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YOUR MONEY

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re you on the hunt for Christmas presents or lastminute Hanukkah gifts? Ordering items in December is a bad idea, given the supply chain and shipping issues of the past year. Plus, budgets are tighter for many of us.

Don’t worry. We have a solution: thrift stores. Wait, what?

For gifts? Yes, for gifts. Southwest Florida is swimming in quality thrift and consignment stores. Thrifting your gifts not only supports small local businesses and charities, but also is good for the environment. Plus, thrift shopping is very on trend with teens right now, and we all know how hard it is to find the right gifts for the teenagers in our lives.

Here are seven tips for thrift and consignment shopping, as well as a list of area stores. Some of the shops, including kid-focused Once Upon a Child and Twinkle Twinkle Little Store, also sell new items.

Thrift Your y a d i l Ho

Gifts

  

Shop often. Inventory can change daily, so you never know when you might find exactly what you are looking for.

Get to know the stores. Most offer discounts, and loyalty programs are a great way to save even more money.

Have a budget in mind and stick to it. You will get more for your money at thrift and consignment stores, but if you haven’t given yourself a budget, you are likely to overspend.

  z {

Manage your expectations. Don’t expect to find anything, but be excited when you find a diamond in the rough.

Make sure it is real. If shopping for designer accessories look for proof of authenticity from the consignor.

Try on clothes. Typically thrifting is final sale.

Check with each store on its return/exchange policy.

Know before you buy.

Enjoy the hunt. Shopping thrift is a treasure hunt, so get out and get looking!

The Moorings Presbyterian Preschool A vibrant learning community with a highly qualified staff

Now accepting applications for enrollment, ages 2-5!

Come Grow With Us!

VPK Provider No Wrap-Around Fees Creative Arts Letter People Handwriting without Tears

791 Harbour Drive, Naples, FL 34103 18

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Hands-On Learning Small Class Size Chapel Discovery & Exploration S.T.E.A.M.

www.mooringspreschool.org

(239) 649-1811

NEAPOLITANfamily • December 2021

Thrift and Consignment Stores in SWFL Once Upon a Child

www.onceuponachild.com/locations/naples-fl

13560 Tamiami Tr. N., Naples

239-596-6096

Twinkle Twinkle Little Store

www.twinkletwinklelittlestoreofnaples.com

4172 Tamiami Tr., N., Naples

239-262-5904

Another Man’s Treasure

www.anothermanstreasurenaples.net

8793 Tamiami Tr. E., Naples

239-643-6331

128 South Barfield Dr., Marco Island

239-235-7247

Audrey’s of Naples

www.audreysofnaples.com

985 5th Ave. N., Naples

239-403-8322

Avow Treasures Resale Shop

https://avowtreasures.org

3601 Tamiami Tr. N. Naples

239-649-0201

2369 Davis Blvd., Naples

239-649-3692

Bargain Box

https://bargainboxnaples.com

3906 Tamiami Tr. E., Naples

239-262-3802

2371 Vanderbilt Beach Rd., #706, Naples

239-431-6341

1687 Pine Ridge Rd., Naples

239-592-1586

3759 E. Tamiami Tr., Naples, FL

239-417-5636

4875 Golden Gate Pkwy., Naples

239-353-7331

400 North 15th St., Immokalee

239-658-2262

12980 Tamiami Tr. N., #10, Naples

239-594-2696

11127 Tamiami Tr. E., Naples

239-732-1672

5062 Airport-Pulling Rd. N., Naples

239-260-5256

Designer Divas Resale Boutique www.naplesdesignerdivas.com

Goodwill Retail & Donation Center www.goodwillswfl.org

Guadalupe Resale Shop

www.guadalupecenter.org

Habitat for Humanity ReStore

https://habitatstores.org

Home and Salvage

www.homeandsalvage.com

5400 Taylor Rd., #109, Naples

239-653-9218

Hope Chest

https://hopehcs.org/hopechest

28520 Bonita Crossings Blvd., Bonita Springs

239-444-1100

Nearly New Thrift & Consignment www.nearlynewthriftstore.com

2651 Davis Blvd., Naples

239-300-6908

Plato’s Closet

www.platosclosetnaples.com

5369 Airport Pulling Rd. N., Naples

239-513-0134

Rodeo Upscale Consignment

https://rodeoupscaleconsignment.com

975 Imperial Golf Course Blvd., #115, Naples

239-598-1222

St. John’s Shoppe

www.stjohnsshoppe.com

14700 Tamiami Tr. N., Naples

239-597-9518

2601 Airport-Pulling Rd. S., Naples

239-774-3315

1115 Airport-Pulling Rd. S., Naples

239-774-3315

630 W Main St., Immokalee

239-774-3315

25091 Bernwood Dr., Bonita Springs

239-774-3315

3810 Tamiami Tr. E., Naples

239-775-2907

3725 Bonita Beach Rd., Bonita Springs

239-775-2907

St. Matthew’s House Thrift Store https://stmatthewshouse.org

St. Vincent de Paul Thrift Store

www.svdpnaples.org

Salvation Army Thrift Store

https://salvationarmyflorida.org/naples

2313 Davis Blvd., Naples

239-774-4347

The Shelter Options Shoppe

http://naplesshelter.org/options

968 Second Ave. N., Naples

239-434-7115

STAR Store

https://starability.org/star-store

106 10th St. N., Naples

239-263-1894

Surroundings

www.surroundingsfla.com

12980 Tamiami Tr. N., Naples

239-593-6879

www.truefashionistas.com

2355 Vanderbilt Beach Rd., #178, Naples

239-596-5044

Home store

2359 Vanderbilt Beach Rd., #402

239-431-7801

997 2nd Ave. N., Naples

239-263-2992

4910 Tamiami Tr. N., #108, Naples

239-963-9633

True Fashionistas Twice As Nice Consignments

www.twiceasniceconsignnaples.com

NEAPOLITANfamily • December 2021

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SHOP LOCAL HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE

Find something for everyone on your list, without leaving SWFL! Our gift guide has everything from experiences to unique handcrafted items to the newest toys.

Gift Certificates to Naples Zoo SCAN ME

$Flexible 1590 Goodlette-Frank Rd., Naples www.napleszoo.org/giftcertificates

Are you searching for the perfect holiday gift? Purchase Naples Zoo Membership gift certificates for family or friends.

These certificates can be used for a new membership or to renew an existing membership. Florida resident family and grandparent memberships are just $99.

E is for Everglades

by Lisa Trebilcock $14.95 + shipping SCAN ME

https://mascotbooks.com

From local author Lisa Trebilcock. Explore the natural wonders and excitement of a day in the Florida Everglades, following the alphabet, in this adorable children’s book.

Experience fun and adventure as two curious children guide you through one of the most exotic spots on earth. Join them as they glide over water on an airboat, spot an alligator and venomous snake, learn about the mangroves and pine forests, and even take a swamp safari. Available through https://mascotbooks.com.

Swell Sun Safe Long Sleeve Shirt from Lazy Turtle $46 + shipping SCAN ME

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https://shoplazyturtle.com

Enjoy fun in the sun with our Sun Safe long sleeve shirt’s natural SPF rating of 50+, which blocks 98% of the sun’s harmful UVA and UVB rays. Kids love to wear this comfortable, soft, tagless fabric. Keep your family sun safe and, as an added bonus, keep chemicals from sunscreen off your kid’s body and out of our oceans.

NEAPOLITANfamily • December 2021

All gifts on this page are available at Classroom Plus, 650 Goodlette Rd. N., Naples.

Scan the QR code to access Classroom Plus’ complete holiday toy catalogue.

Visit www.classroom-plus.com.

SCAN ME

SCAN ME

Cornhole $49.99 Extremely durable PVC piping makes the two target frames so lightweight. Easy set up, plus a carry bag.

Mega Cyborg Hand $39.99 Build your own 16” robotic hand.

SCAN ME

Mini Deluxe Magic Scooter $109.99 Motion activated light-up front wheels and adjustable T-bar.

Smooth, safe, and stable ride.

SCAN ME

Sensory Tissue Box $22.99 Pull out a tissue and another pops up. Little ones love repetition while learning colors and textures.

SCAN ME

Studio Creator 2 Video Maker Kit $39.99 Create original content with a tripod, green screen, ring light, plus so many more cool effects.

SCAN ME

Mind The Gap $29.99 This generation spanning quiz-fest asks about music, slang, news, and TV from “your time.”

Smart LED Rainbow Lights $49.99 300 LEDs deliver 32’ of awesome light. Remote or app controlled.

SCAN ME

Die Cast Cars in Carrying Tub $39.99 It’s like a parking garage with a handle on top!

Storytime Chess $49.99 Convertible pieces grow with skill level.

SCAN ME

AirFort Starry Night $59.99 Inflatable floorless fort that is 6.5 feet wide and 4 feet tall. Easy to set up.

Box fan not included.

SCAN ME

SCAN ME

SCAN ME

NEAPOLITANfamily • December 2021

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Naples Moms

Holiday Shop & Play

New Toys at Twinkle Twinkle Little Store $4.99 + 4172 Tamiami Trail N., Naples https://twinkletwinklelittlestoreofnaples.com

We carry many top brands starting at just $4.99.

We have wooden toys, educational toys, popular characters, fidget poppers, and so much more!

Mention Neapolitan Family at checkout and receive $5 off a $25 purchase. Offer expires Dec. 17, 2021.

Sunday, Dec. 5 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Baker Park, Naples Welcome to a winter wonderland of local, mom-owned businesses alongside a day of joy and play for the whole family, sponsored by Lyndsey Creech and Judy Huntley of The Nest at Domain Realty.

F Photos with Santa (11 a.m. to 1 p.m.) F F Bounce Houses F Face Painting F F Food Trucks F Touch-a-Trucks F F Giveaways F And So Much More! F

Vendors

Adira Fashion Boutique by Maverick the Collection F Arbonne Brittany Hartt Designs F Bounce It Up F Burn Boot Camp Naples Canopy Arts & Crafts F Care Beads F City of Naples Fire and Police Classic & Lit Co. F Collier County Domestic Animal Services Collier County Sheriff’s Office F Devine Colors F Dream Body Sculpting Dunkin’ Donuts F Elite Concierge Speech and Language Services En Root F Eight Twenty Eight F Everlasting Elderberry Gator Creek BBQ F Grapevine Designs Naples F Happy Notes Book, LLC Handcrafted by Hubbard F Integrative Direct Primary Care Kriger Orthodontics F Mad Manicures by Mariska Magnolia & Cypress Scent Boutique F Miss Lexi’s Place Munchkin Park & Play F My Two Left Hands F Naples Boudoir Naturalis Handcrafted Soaps F Powered by Play F Rupert’s Karate Academy Rylee Dee’s Boutique F Silver Palm Design Co. F Simple Beauty Skin Wellness Physicians F Smallcakes F Solaris Rehab Steele Design Solutions F Sugar Booger F Sweet Autumn Designs The Dying Hooker F The Party Girl Co. F Treasures by Nury Whispers in Color Designs F Willow & Clay Zativa Life Health & Wellness of Naples F Zyia Active

Live Plants and More at Naples Botanical Garden www.naplesgarden.org

Holiday shopping takes on a decidedly botanical twist at the Jane and Chuck Berger Shop. Peruse live plants, or plant-inspired decorations, art prints, books, greeting cards, and more. All proceeds directly benefit the garden’s conservation, education, and horticulture initiatives.

Sponsors

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SHOP LOCAL HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE A Mostly Kids’ Guide to Naples, Marco Island and the Everglades

By Karen T. Bartlett, travel editor of Neapolitan Family www.MostlyKidsGuides.com

From local author Karen T. Bartlett. The most awesome family guidebook on the planet! It’s smart, enlightening, artful, inclusive, and funny. It’s a grandparents’ superpower for sure, but it’s absolutely, positively not just for kids! Get one for the guest room and send one to the family. 80 fullcolor pages with hundreds of graphics and photos. Available locally in bookstores, gift shops, and on Amazon.com.

Bibs and Onesie from Rookery Bay Environmental Learning Center 300 Tower Rd., Naples https://rookerybay.org

Show your support for Rookery Bay right from the start, with onesies and bibs, for sale at the nature shop at the Rookery Bay Environmental Learning Center. Shop at our Holiday Hootenanny on Dec. 2 from 4-7 p.m. for one-night-only specials and membership discounts.

Gift Certificates to Pure Florida $Flexible 1200 5th Ave. S., Naples www.PureFL.com

Purchase a $60 gift certificate for just $50, and buy a $125 gift certificate for only $100. Offer ends Dec. 25, 2021.

Gift certificates do not expire. Valid on any sightseeing or sunset cruise, dolphin watch, eco shelling tour, deep sea fishing or backwater calm bay fishing trips, or toward a boat or jet ski rental.

NEAPOLITANfamily • December 2021

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Countdown Till Christmas Poster from Amy Grau Design

$9.99 + free domestic shipping www.amygraudesign.com/countdown Colorable 36”x24” Countdown Till Christmas poster from a local designer.

About the ARTIST:

auma at RCMA Wim subject is art. sixth grader Brenda is a re her favorite als by being Academy whe s to help anim Community s up she want at school, she likes to not When she grow is she fields n Whe works in the a veterinarian. . Her mom book h sketc ion. draw in her s in construct work dad and her

Print Angels

Wheeler Farms

ador Wilma & Salv Melendez

& Vegetable COMMITTEE PROJECT STEERING Citrus Mutual, Florida Fruit , Florida DUDA .

Association

Main Street

402 West , Florida 34142 Immokalee (800) 282-6540 RCMA .org

Grower, SUPPORT ican Vegetable er Grower, Amer a Grow , American Fruit FloridAgriculture, Florid Produce News try, on Printers, Citrus Indus The Field, Lawt Magazine, In a.

AgNet Medi

IN KIND PROJECT

Candles and More from STARability Store 106 10th St. N., Naples https://starability.org/star-store

The STARability Foundation supports people with disabilities by providing life transforming opportunities that emphasize teamwork, connection to the community to build awareness, and respect for individual abilities. The store benefits the foundation through the resale of upscale furniture and home decor, while also providing vocational training on critical skills like maintenance and customer service for participants in the Trailblazer Academy and Junior Trailblazer Academy. The store is also home to the STAR*Made Studio, where the Trailblazers and employed STAR participants craft hand-poured candles, greeting cards, jewelry, and more.

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NEAPOLITANfamily • December 2021

SHOP LOCAL HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE

Holiday Cards from Redlands Christian Migrant Association $15 for 10 cards with envelopes https://rcma.org/cards

Brighten a child’s future by purchasing RCMA students’ personally crafted holiday cards. Children draw colorful holiday scenes that are converted into holiday greeting cards for sale in our annual fundraiser. Every dollar raised qualifies RCMA for up to $16 in matching state funds, meaning when you buy a $15 box of cards, you entitle RCMA to $240 in matching funds.

3-Hour Organizing Gift Package from Sort, Store and Style $300 https://sortstoreandstyle.com

Our professional organization session will transform your home or office spaces to make them more organized, functional, and beautiful so that you can relax, be more productive, and live your best life.

Music Classes at Whiz Kids

$60 per month 1050 Pine Ridge Rd., Naples www.whizkidsnaples.com Music classes for babies through 6 years old. $60 monthly or $325 for 6 months. Small groups, mommy and me style. Camps, birthday parties, and play zone also available.

True Fashionistas Consignment

2355 Vanderbilt Beach Rd., #178, Naples https://truefashionistas.com The Louis Vuitton handbag pictured here is just one example of the items available in our one-of-a-kind inventory that is subject to change daily.

NEAPOLITANfamily • December 2021

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Candy Land Christmas Gift Box from Naples Soap Co. $98 1200 5th Ave. S., #102, Naples 614 5th Ave. S., Naples www.naplessoap.com

Bring back Christmas innocence, anticipation, and joy with our sweet and uplifting Candy Land Christmas Gift Box. Filled with tropical and fruity soaps, bombs, scrub, lotion, lip balm, and more, this box is sure to be a hit for all ages.

Mug at Petunias of Naples $24.99 824 5th Ave. S., Naples www.petuniasofnaples.com

Take a sip and start your day! The mug is ceramic with curved light pink handle, a glossy white background, and a light pink interior. Dishwasher and microwave safe.

Toofer & The Giblet by Paulette LeBlanc $18.99 https://www.tooferandthegiblet.com

From local author Paulette LeBlanc. Toofer is reserved, thoughtful, and observant, while The Giblet is outgoing and sociable. Filled with clever adventures and stand-alone stories, this series invites readers to rediscover their own world.

At the heart of Toofer & The Giblet is a deep friendship, revealed through the innocence and wisdom of its characters.

Hugh & Grace Products at Radiant Living Organics

https://radiantliving.shop.hughandgrace.com Self-care products designed to detox, repair, and protect your skin from toxic chemicals and hormone disruptions.

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SHOP LOCAL HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE

Vintage Purse from Brooch Accessories www.etsy.com/shop/Broochaccessories

Our vintage jewelry, handbags, cake toppers, and bridal accessories are uniquely designed from repurposed materials to provide modern functionality and style with an air of elegance from another era.

Soy Candles from Moxie Creed

$38 + https://moxiecreed.com Candles are handmade in small batches using 100% domestically grown soy wax and cotton braided wicks. Essential oils and fragrance oils are sourced from around the world, and all products are phthalate-free. No dyes, preservatives, or wax additives are used.

7.5 oz. soy candles with wood lid.

Kaloo My First Doll at Classroom Plus

Himalayan Crystal Salt Lamp at blue: A Goodwill Boutique

$24.99 650 Goodlette Rd. N., Naples www.classroom-plus.com

$19.99 www.goodwillswfl.org 7 locations in Collier County

These 10-inch cloth babies are soft, machine washable, and ready to cuddle.

Beautiful Himalayan crystal salt lamp with standard dimming cord, authentic aromatherapy salt crystal in metal fence container.

SCAN ME

Magic: Gold Edition at Classroom Plus $39.99 650 Goodlette Rd. N., Naples www.classroom-plus.com

150 tricks in a gold box? Pure magic! Many things will appear, float in air, vanish, and astonish. A great manual, video tutorials, and a wand.

SCAN ME

NEAPOLITANfamily • December 2021

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TRAVEL

By Karen T. Bartlett

Destination: Tarpon Springs I

Spongeorama museum and souvenir shop on the Tarpon Springs sponge docks.

Facing page: Captain Anastasios Karistinos, possibly the most photographed sponge diver in the Western Hemisphere. Photos by Karen T. Bartlett

f you squinch your eyes just right and use your imagination, you may notice that the map of a miniature Greek settlement on the Anclote River forms the shape of a Hellenic warrior’s torch. And if you sit on the seawall with old whitewashed wooden boats lapping against the concrete at your back, you may sense the presence of a stern Hellenic warrior guarding a sponge diving culture that exists nowhere else in the Western Hemisphere.

I’m not talking about the Dodecanese Islands in the Aegean Sea, where skin diving for sponges (translation: wearing only your own skin) dates back to the time of Homer.

This particular settlement is only 125 years old. But it was founded just off Florida’s west coast by the descendants of those ancients, and for generations these families still follow the traditions of language, music, art, worship – and especially cooking – of their ancestors. Along the sponge docks and tucked into narrow lanes and courtyards are whitewashed buildings trimmed in Greek blue and other vivid colors housing shops, tavernas, and bakeries. There’s Spongeorama, a museum and souvenir shop, where you can do a family selfie inside a giant bronze sponge diver’s helmet. There are other bronze sculptures, wonderful murals depicting scenes from the old country, and, yes, even a larger-than-life Hellenic warrior standing sentry with his sword and spear atop the famous Hellas Restaurant.

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The sponges are almost gone from the Anclote River now, due to a century of harvesting and sponge blight. There are more touristy gift shops, but there’s still an endless selection of sponges for sale, and dishes made by great-great-grandmothers in the Dodecanese Islands are still served at family-owned restaurants.

Dimitri and the Captain A Greek sponge fisherman in white sneakers and an Aegean-blue shirt is enjoying his morning coffee and a smoke on the seawall in front of Anastasia, a white boat with Aegean-blue trim and riggings draped in golden-brown sponges. His name is Dimitri, and he’s a member of the crew.

We have a nice chat about the most recent sponging expedition to the Gulf of Mexico, which brought in about 8,000 sponges for the wholesale market. They’re preparing to head out for another month, and as my luck has it, the owner drives up right this minute. Captain Anastasios Karistinos – Taso to his friends – is the ranking senior member of the Tarpon Springs sponging community. We talk sponges and boats for a few minutes, and I feel that I really scored when he agrees to climb aboard for a photo op (“only for you, because you’re a friend,” he says). It turns out through my diligent research afterward that my friend Taso may be the most photographed sponge diver in the Western Hemisphere. But still…

Family adventures The most popular family experiences on the docks are a two-hour Odyssey sightseeing, dolphin-watching, and shelling cruise down the Anclote River (www.odysseycruises.net), and a quick 40-minute St. Nicholas

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VII sponge diving boat tour, which includes cool photo ops when a diver in traditional suit and helmet plunges into the water and comes up victorious with a sponge from the river bed. (www.stnicholasboatline.com).

And so to eat Many choices. Hellas is big and exuberant with typical restaurant style menus and service. I’ve feasted well there in the past, and who can resist the lure of that rooftop Greek warrior? I especially love Mykonos, an intimate, authentic taverna where on my last visit a large Greek family filled the entire dining room. Today it’s Mama’s Greek Cuisine, tucked behind the sponge market where the big auctions took place a century ago. The woman handing out menus said the lunch special includes free baklava for dessert, so why not? My fresh-caught fish with a Greek salad was a delicious choice, especially when periodically throughout our meal a server arrived at nearby tables with a tray containing a cast iron pan called a saganaki, a large square of Greek cheese, and a container of something alcoholic (ouzo or brandy, maybe). The brief flaming tableside shows were worth the price of lunch.

Beyond the Sponge Docks Tarpon Springs, documented as the most Greek small town in America, is way more than sponge docks. There are festivals, performances, museums, lovely shops, and the stunning neo-Byzantine sanctuary inside the St. Nicholas Greek Orthodox Cathedral, with its massive arch-supported dome modeled after St. Sophia Cathedral in Istanbul. At Epiphany there’s the blessing of the sponge fleet at the docks, and every Jan. 6 for the last 115 years, the archbishop blesses a white cross and tosses it into the cold, murky waters of Spring Bayou, where dozens of teenage boys dive for it in hopes of a year of blessings ahead. As part of the ritual, a young woman releases a white dove symbolizing the baptism of Jesus. If you’re not a crowd person, take note: Tens of thousands of people come from around the country to witness the largest Epiphany celebration in the world. That’s right: the world.

Getting there Tarpon Springs isn’t a quick hop from anywhere. You have to intentionally want to go there. Starting from Naples, that unfortunate stretch of U.S.-19 is hard to avoid. If you decide to jump off 1-75 from the north onto a maze of back roads, you’ll be rewarded with canopies of giant oaks and Spanish moss, a pasture of white cows, and views of weathered barns, sleek-coated grazing horses, and country ranches tucked behind split rail fences or ornate metal gates.

Oh, and the ruins of the Yulee Sugar Mill.

Plan for three hours on either route. One more note: Many shops and restaurants in downtown Tarpon Springs (but not the sponge docks) are closed on Mondays. Visit www.tarponspringschamber.org.

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NEW

DISCOVERIES We will be open for new discoveries at the Conservancy Nature Center starting Saturday, December 18th!

Come join us in our newly expanded Dalton Discovery Center and the John & Carol Walter Discovery Wing to observe, explore, and investigate.

Learn and see the ecosystem that surrounds you like never before!

HOURS: Starting Saturday Dec. 18, 2021 Tuesday - Saturday 9:30 am - 4:00 pm Closed Sunday & Monday

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1495 Smith Preserve Way, Naples, FL 34102 • 239.262.0304 • www.conservancy.org