January 2017 Neapolitan Family Magazine

January 2017 neafamily.com

COMPLIMENTARY

Local Families Are on the Run The ABCs of SWFL Travel Who Do You Workout For?

It’s Never Too Late To Learn To Swim Kids Eat Free: A Guide NEAPOLITANfamily • January 2017

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Saturday, January 28, 2017 at the Collier County Fairgrounds 731 39th Avenue N.E., Naples, FL 34120

Tickets start at $30!

Gates open at 2:00 pm!

Easton Corbin

Josh Turner

Joe Nichols

This year, Country Jam features many of your favorite artists, all in one incredible day and night of music!

Buy your Reserved Seating General Admission ticket while they last! General Admission starting at $30, VIP seats are $50. For tickets and more information, go to www.countryjamflorida.com.

Big Swamp Smoke Off Jan. 6 & 7 Come out to our BBQ Competition with the nation’s top cook teams, Craft Beer sampling, Face Painting, and Games for Kids! The event will also feature a “Ride the Ridge” motorcycle and car scavenger hunt and cornhole tournament benefitting Palmetto Ridge High School band boosters! Admission is FREE! The Collier County Agricultural Fair & Exposition, Inc. is a private, not-for-profit organization that provides support for such community groups as the Collier County Sheriff’s Junior Deputy Program, Catholic Charities, 4-H Foundation, Open Youth of Collier County, Boy Scouts, Kiwanis Club, Naples Bears, Immokalee High School Band, Make-A-Wish Foundation, Youth Haven, and the Palmetto High School Fishing Club, Marching Band, and Band Boosters. In addition, our Making Life Fair Fund supports local individuals with life-altering illnesses or hardships.

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CollierCoFair

Collier County Fair NEAPOLITANfamily • January 2017

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The Only 24 Hour Pediatric Emergency Department in Collier County Always Open, Close To Home

Robert, Mariann & Megan MacDonald

NCH North Naples Hospital 11190 Health Park Blvd.

Naples, FL 34110

Immokalee Rd.

239-552-7827

www.NCHmd.org

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X

North Naples Hospital

•Open 24 hours a day, 365 days a year •Safe and secure with designated entrance •Child-sized advanced medical technology •Waiting room serves only pediatric emergencies •Streamlined process for moving children through triage quickly and efficiently

Healthpark Blvd.

Pediatric Emergency Department

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JANUARY 2017 TABLE OF CONTENTS

in every issue . . .

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FROM THE PUBLISHER

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REEL LIFE WITH JANE Movie reviews for the entire family

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CITY CONNECTION City of Naples Parks News and Events

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FAMILY LAW Legal experts provide guidance

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COLLIER COUNTY SHERIFF’S OFFICE

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COLLIER COUNTY SCHOOL DISTRICT UPDATE

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THE OUTNUMBERED MOTHER Advice from Amy Hunter

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RACHEL RECOMMENDS

on the cover…

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Learning to Swim as an Adult. It’s never too late to acquire this valuable skill.

by Anna Snyder

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Kids Eat Free. We’ve put together a list of restaurants where you can score a free meal for your kid.

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Families on the Run. It’s more fun with the whole family.

by Leigh Tahirovic

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Who Do You Exercise For? If you are looking for motivation to push yourself to workout, I Run 4 Michael provides it, and more.

by Leigh Ann Newman

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Cyber Safety. Garfield the cat is aiming to make the Internet safer.

by Anna Snyder

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Destination: Southwest Florida. An ABC guide to unique adventures and destinations for families close to home.

by Karen T. Bartlett

Cade is the 4-year-old son of Tony and Megan Lawhon of Naples. Tony is a civil trial attorney and Megan is a homemaker and former educator. Cade likes to play putt-putt golf and t-ball, and ride his scooter. He also enjoys playing soccer on the roof at the YMCA.

Cover photo by Peggy Farren of Avant Garde Photography • 239-263-7001

You may sign up for both Mondays and Wednesdays!

Covenant Church of Naples Mom’s Morning Out Providing a loving environment for children while offering mothers and fathers a needed break

Mondays and Wednesdays 9 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.

Ages 2 years to 4 years

by January 1

6926 Trail Blvd., Naples, FL

239.597.3464

Hurry! Space is limited.

Visit www.covenantnaples.com 4

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Winter 2017 Session 1

Mondays: January 9 - February 13 Wednesdays: January 11 - February 15

Winter 2017 Session 2

Mondays: February 20 - March 27 Wednesdays: February 22 - March 29 You can choose one or both days!

NEAPOLITANfamily • January 2017

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IT SHOULDN’T HURT TO BE A CHILD Chloe struggled to learn, to sit still, and to control her furious outbursts. After she was evicted from a special needs school, her mother despaired. Must she send her beloved, troubled daughter away for residential care?

David Lawrence Center saves our community’s children with world-class pediatric mental health treatment. In 2016, we will serve 2,500 children, many in crisis – and we will watch them recover. Thanks to David Lawrence Center, Chloe received specialized, advanced care right near home. Today, the outgoing 16-year-old loves animals, art and acting.

Your gift lets David Lawrence Center meet the rising demand for children’s services in our community. Please donate today.

Call us or make a gift online at:

DavidLawrenceCenter.org

239.354.1419 DONATE NOW TO SAVE OUR CHILDREN’S LIVES...AND FUTURES

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For Child and Adolescent Mental Health D O N AT E O N L I N E :

DavidLawrenceCenter.org NAPLES

239-455-8500

IMMOKALEE

239-657-4434

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Providing Care for Infants, Toddlers, Preschool, VPK NOW OFFERING AFTER SCHOOL PROGRAMS K-5th GRADE

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

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Educated, compassionate, and skilled teachers

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Baby Sign Language used in all infant and toddler classrooms

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Instilling school preparedness through mathematics, science, literacy that enforces sight words, phonics, letter recognition, and a Kindergarten Readiness Program Parent Trainings and Workshops available!

Field trips including: Barnes & Noble, The Artis Naples, The Children’s Museum, Naples Zoo, The Conservancy of SWFL, The Glenview Naples, and the Naples Botanical Gardens Afterschool Program that includes homework time, tutoring, games, crafts, and snacks!

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

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Nationally Recognized Breastfeeding Friendly Child Care Center

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

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

EMAIL: Leanne.badham@outlook.com

Find Us on Facebook!

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NEAPOLITANfamily • January 2017

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from the publisher… the parenting magazine devoted to collier county

P.O. Box 110656 Naples, FL 34108 info@neafamily.com Co-Publisher Stacy Nicolau advertising, marketing, social media, editorial snicolau@neafamily.com 239-370-5333 Co-Publisher Leigh Ann Newman graphic design, accounting, editorial lanewman@neafamily.com 239-287-4221 Travel Editor Karen T. Bartlett mostlykidsguides@gmail.com 239-595-9026 Feature Writer Anna Snyder Cover Photographer Peggy Farren Editorial submissions are welcome. We reserve the right to edit, reject, or comment editorially on all material contributed. We cannot be responsible for return of any unsolicited materials.

Articles and advertisements in Neapolitan Family do not necessarily reflect the opinion of the publisher nor does the publisher assume responsibility for statements made by our advertisers or editorial contributors.

Acceptance of advertising by Neapolitan Family does not constitute an endorsement of the products, services, or information.

We do not knowingly present any product or service which is fraudulent or misleading in nature.

THIS MONTH: Health & Wellness

Forward Thinking With the December holidays safely behind us, January becomes a time to look forward. Some people make resolutions and others may set new goals.

It seems like most people focus on health-related goals for themselves and their families with a renewed sense of hope and intention.

Cover kid Cade Lawhon showed us where he quite literally achieves his goals. He led us up to the roof top of the YMCA to an astroturf field where he plays Mighty Mite soccer every Saturday, and excitedly showed off his technique for the camera.

On page 22, fifth grader Bella Schaab reviews the young reader version of the memoir of two-time Olympic gold medalist soccer star Abby Wambach.

One of the most decorated soccer forwards of all time, Wambach writes about how she moves forward in life both on and off the field.

Feature writer Leigh Tahirovic introduces us to local families who move forward together by running and racing together on page 36. Learn how to ease your family into the world of 5Ks, marathons, and triathlons by setting small, achievable goals.

Know how to run but not sure you can swim? Whether you want to train for a triathalon or just learn the freestyle for the first time, Anna Snyder brings you information on page 18 on how you can go the distance in the pool.

Sometimes running for somebody else can help encourage us to reach our goals. Co-Publisher Leigh Ann Newman introduces us to I Run 4 Michael, an inspiring nonprofit organization that matches runners with a buddy who is unable to run because of physical or cognitive disabilities.

While Leigh Ann and I haven’t set any physical goals yet for 2017 (I’m writing this in the middle of December, so give us time), we have been forward thinking about Neapolitan Family in the New Year. For 2017, we are excited to bring you interesting articles from our local feature writers, tackle your toughest life dilemmas with our parenting and family law columnists, and take your family on new adventures with our travel editor Karen Bartlett.

Happy New Year!

Neapolitan Family is available free of charge at more than 275 distribution points throughout Collier County as well as digitally at neafamily.com.

Neapolitan Family is ©2017 by Neapolitan Family Publishing LLC. All rights reserved.

Reproduction in whole or part without written permission is strictly prohibited.

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Stacy Nicolau Co-Publisher neafamily.com

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REEL LIFE WITH JANE

By Jane Louise Boursaw

Family Movie & DVD Reviews New movies for kids and teens in January include a fascinating story about NASA, a movie about “Monster Trucks,” and a sweet family film told from a dog’s perspective. Here’s a sneak peek at all the new movies for kids and teens in January. Note that all release dates are subject to change.

HIDDEN FIGURES

A DOG’S PURPOSE

MONSTER TRUCKS

Rated PG for thematic elements and some language In Theaters 1/6 • Ok for kids 9+ 20th Century Fox Reel Preview: 5 of 5 Reels

Rated PG for thematic elements and some peril • In Theaters 1/27 Ok for Kids 8+ Universal Reel Preview: 3.5 of 5 Reels

Rated PG for action, peril, brief scary images, and some rude humor In Theaters 1/13 • Ok for kids 7+ Reel Preview: 3.5 of 5 Reels

Directed by Theodore Melfi, “Hidden Figures” is the incredible untold story of Katherine G. Johnson (Taraji P. Henson), Dorothy Vaughan (Octavia Spencer), and Mary Jackson (Janelle Monáe). These brilliant African American women working at NASA served as the brains behind one of the greatest operations in history: the launch of astronaut John Glenn into orbit. This stunning achievement restored the nation’s confidence, turned around the Space Race, and galvanized the world.

Also stars Kevin Costner, Kirsten Dunst, Jim Parsons, Mahershala Ali, Aldis Hodge, and Glen Powell.

Based on the beloved bestselling novel by W. Bruce Cameron (screenplay by Cathryn Michon), “A Dog’s Purpose,” from director Lasse Hallström (“The Cider House Rules,” “Dear John,” “The 100-Foot Journey”), shares the soulful and surprising story of one devoted dog (voiced by Josh Gad) who finds the meaning of his own existence through the lives of the humans he teaches to laugh and love. This family film told from the dog’s perspective over the course of several lifetimes and several owners, also stars Dennis Quaid, Britt Robertson, Peggy Lipton, Pooch Hall, and Juliet Rylance.

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Looking for any way to get away from the life and town he was born into, Tripp (Lucas Till), a high school senior, builds a Monster Truck from bits and pieces of scrapped cars.

After an accident at a nearby oil-drilling site displaces a strange and subterranean creature with a taste for speed, Tripp may have just found the key to getting out of town and a most unlikely friend. Melding cutting edge visual effects and state-of-the-art CGI, Monster Trucks is an action-filled adventure for the whole family that will keep you on the edge of your seat and ultimately touch your heart. Directed by Chris Wedge, this movie stars Lucas Till, Danny Glover, Rob Lowe, and Amy Ryan.

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personalities to his trusted psychiatrist, Dr. Fletcher (Betty Buckley), there remains one still submerged who is set to materialize and dominate all the others. Compelled to abduct three teenage girls led by the willful, observant Casey (Anya Taylor-Joy, “The Witch”), Kevin reaches a war for survival among all of those contained within him.

SLEEPLESS Not yet rated • In Theaters 1/13 Ok for Kids 17+ Reel Preview: 4 of 5 Reels

SPLIT Rated PG-13 for disturbing thematic content and behavior, violence, and some language • In Theaters 1/27 Ok for Kids 14+ Reel Preview: 4 of 5 Reels Writer/director/producer M. Night Shyamalan returns to the captivating grip of “The Sixth Sense,” “Unbreakable,” and “Signs” with “Split,” an original thriller that delves into the mysterious recesses of one man’s fractured, gifted mind. While the mental divisions of those with dissociative identity disorder have long fascinated and eluded science, it is believed that some can also manifest unique physical attributes for each personality, a cognitive and physiological prism within a single being. Though Kevin (James McAvoy) has evidenced 23

“Sleepless” stars Jamie Foxx (“Django Unchained,” “White House Down”) as undercover Las Vegas police officer Vincent Downs, who is caught in a high stakes web of corrupt cops and the mob-controlled casino underground. When a heist goes wrong, a crew of homicidal gangsters kidnaps Downs’ teenage son. In one sleepless night he will have to rescue his son, evade an internal affairs investigation, and bring the kidnappers to justice. Directed by Baran bo Odar, this movie also stars Michelle Monaghan, Dermot Mulroney, and Gabrielle Union.

AMITYVILLE: THE AWAKENING Rated PG-13 for disturbing horror, violence and terror, suggestive images, brief language, and thematic material • In Theaters 1/6 Ok for Kids 14+ Reel Preview: 3.5 of 5 Reels It’s the story that won’t die – at least, not on the big screen. “Amityville: The Awakening” brings a modern twist to the popular franchise. In the film, Belle and her family

move into a new house, but when strange phenomena begin to occur, she starts to suspect her mom isn’t telling her everything and soon realizes they just moved into the infamous Amityville house. Directed by Franck Khalfoun, this horror flick stars Jennifer Jason Leigh, Bella Thorne, and Cameron Monaghan.

JANE’S REEL RATING SYSTEM One Reel–Even the Force can’t save it.

Two Reels–Coulda been a contender.

Three Reels–Something to talk about.

Four Reels–You want the truth? Great flick.

Five Reels–Wow. The stuff dreams are made of.

JANE BOURSAW is the film critic and editor-in-chief of Reel Life With Jane. Images used with permission of the studios and distributors.

MONTHLY SENSORY FRIENDLY SCREENINGS Lights are Up, Sound is Down, and You are Totally Free to Move Around!

VIEW THE LINEUP AND PURCHASE TICKETS AT PARAGONTHEATERS.COM

833 VANDERBILT BEACH RD, NAPLES 239.596.0008

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CITY CONNECTION PARKS DEPT. By Laura Tichy-Smith

Free and Inexpensive Family Fun Your family’s January will be filled with fun if you partake of these fantastic outdoor events offered by the City of Naples Community Services Department and community organizations.

Chalk it Up on Fifth Watch as artists transform the half-mile pavement of posh Fifth Avenue South into a canvas for a day at this event raising money for college scholarships for local high school students. The fun runs from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Saturday, January 28. Chalk It Up is free to attend and will include live entertainment, music by live bands, and fashion shows throughout the day. Vote for your favorite artistic creation by purchasing vote tickets at the event, and 100 percent of your donation will go into the scholarship fund. For more information, call 239-289-3035. (Fifth Avenue South, Naples) Empty Bowls Fills Local Food Bank While you are downtown for the free chalk art festival, you can help Harry Chapin Food Bank by grabbing a delicious lunch

at the Empty Bowls Naples event in Cambier Park. Not only do you get to enjoy gourmet soups and breads donated by local restaurants, you get to pick out your own handmade pottery bowl to take home as a souvenir of the event. Tickets are $20 each (paid at the gate) and the event runs from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday, January 28.

For more information, call 239-591-8848 or visit www.emptybowlsnaples.org. (755 Eighth Avenue South, Naples) Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Day Parade The annual Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Day Parade will line up on Broad Avenue and proceed north on 3rd Street South, then right on 5th Avenue South, and end on 8th Street South. The parade will be followed by an educational program in Cambier Park. Noon to 3 p.m. on Monday, January 16. For more information, call 239-370-5820.

Free Tuesday Morning Nature Talk Series Bring your children and learn together how nature can flourish in urban and suburban areas, with the proper care. The Naples Preserve continues the tradition of its free nature talk series featuring guest speakers from natural areas around Southwest Florida. The presentations will inform and entertain both adults and children over the age of 7. All talks start at 10 a.m. on Tuesdays. The schedule is: January 10, “Hey Bob, What Happened to your Tail?

Legends, Facts, and Mysteries of the Bobcat” by Ranger Jay Kissell of Big Cypress National Preserve; January 17, “Florida Forest Service’s Champion Tree Program”

by Senior Forester Clark Ryals; January 24, “Artificial Reefs along the Naples Coast”

by Katie Laakkonen, City of Naples Environmental Specialist; and January 31,

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“Bird Brains” by retired science educator Jack Berninger. For more information, call 239-261-4290. (1690 Tamiami Trail N., corner of US 41 & Fleischmann Blvd.)

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

(1600 Fleischmann Blvd., Naples) Free Concerts at the Bandshell Bring a blanket for the whole family and enjoy free jazz concerts in Cambier Park from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. every Sunday. Concert schedule: Naples Jazz Society on January 8; Naples Concert Band on January 15; Gulf Coast Big Band on January 22; and Music Makers Show Band on January 29.

For more information, call 239-213-3058.

(755 Eighth Avenue South, Naples) Take a Class Fleischmann Park boasts a variety of classes and sports leagues for both adults and children (including kids as young as 3 or 4).

Offerings for children include gymnastics, soccer, baseball, golf, martial arts, flag football, modeling and charm, boys etiquette boot camp, and cheerleading. Adult offerings include line dancing, tap dance, GiGi Rocky Gong, Zumba, softball, flag football, ultimate Frisbee, racquetball, and table tennis. Call 239-213-3020 for prices, dates, and registration. (1600 Fleischmann Blvd., Naples) NEAPOLITANfamily • January 2017

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FAMILY LAW

By Dale Klaus and Reuben Doupé

Grandparent Visitation Rights

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iven the population make-up of the State of Florida, it is natural to assume that state law would provide for grandparents’ rights to see or be involved with their grandchildren. However, grandparent visitation rights are very limited, not only in Florida but throughout the United States. In most families, grandparents play a vital role in both child rearing and providing breaks for exhausted parents. For these families, the role of the doting grandparent is firmly rooted.

In a minority of families, however, grandparents may have been pushed out of their grandchildren’s lives for any of a host of reasons.

These grandparents may look to the law and the justice system for a guaranty of their right to be a part of their grandchildren’s lives.

In 2000, an action for grandparent visitation found its way to the United States Supreme Court, in the case of Troxel v. Granville. In this case, the Troxels, the paternal grandparents, sued under the Washington State law for visitation rights.

Their son had passed away, and the mother of his children began to cut off the Troxels’ time with their grandchildren. The U.S. Supreme Court recognized a long history of law protecting the “liberty issue” at stake and the “fundamental right of parents to make decisions concerning the care, custody, and control of their children.” The Supreme Court held that the court-ordered visitation

rights to the children’s grandparents infringed on the mother’s fundamental rights.

New law, limited rights in Florida In 2015, the Florida Legislature passed a new law, attempting to provide some rights

to grandparents, but it applies in very limited situations so as not to violate the tenets of Troxel. The situations leading to the application of this new statute should be few and far between: when both parents are “deceased, missing, or in a persistent vegetative state,” or one parent is deceased, missing, or in a persistent vegetative state, and the other parent has been convicted of a specific type of felony. Further, if children are ever taken from the custody of their parents, for any reason, and put under the care of a guardian, the grandparents may have a right to visitation, as the guardian does not have the same constitutional rights to parent without interference.

For situations in which grandchildren need the help and care of grandparents or other family members but the Grandparent Visitation Statute does not apply, there are other remedies available under the law, titled the “Temporary Custody of Minor Children By Extended Family,” or other potential relief under the guardianship laws. Similarly, however, these remedies are only intended to apply in limited situations when the children’s basic care is not being met by the parents. Finally, other states may have more liberal grandparent visitation rights and, if a court order is created in one of those states, it is very likely that a Florida court will enforce that order.

When directly addressing the rights of parents versus non-parents, the law will always favor the rights of parents, but the law will also protect children and their family ties when necessary. Like all family court matters, these situations need to be evaluated on a case by case basis. If you find yourself in this type of situation, please consult an attorney about your family’s needs.

DALE KLAUS and REUBEN DOUPÉ are partners at Klaus Doupe, a leading law firm in Naples focusing solely on marital and family law. For more information, go to www.Marital-FamilyLaw.com or call 239-403-9800.

www.reedorthodonticsnaples.com

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COLLIER COUNTY SHERIFF’S OFFICE By Kristine Gill

New PulsePoint Apps Helps Citizens Provide Assistance in Emergencies and Locate AEDs

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f your child has ever suffered a medical emergency, you know that every second counts as you wait for help to arrive.

That’s why the Collier County Sheriff’s Office recently invested in new software that will better connect victims with good Samaritans nearby who are willing to lend a hand. PulsePoint is a smartphone app that allows those trained in CPR to register for alerts when someone in the area is in need of life-saving compressions. Now you can volunteer your services if a child or adult nearby is in need. And you can rest assured that should you need medical help yourself, the app is working to locate nearby help before the ambulance arrives.

When an emergency call is made to 911 for help, the information about the victim’s location is broadcast to users of the app who currently are in the vicinity. Those trained in CPR receive an alert on their phones and can choose to respond if they are able to do so. Sometimes, it’s as simple as walking to a different floor of the same

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office building, or crossing a parking lot to a nearby restaurant where someone is suffering from a cardiac emergency. Traveling by foot reduces the time a victim has to wait for help as first responders navigate traffic along Collier County’s busy roadways, especially in season.

The PulsePoint AED app also lists the locations for every automated external defibrillator (AED) in the county, making it easier to find and use the life-saving device when a child or adult needs to receive a shock. You can use the app to find out where the AED in your child’s school is located. See if there’s one at your gym or daycare center. The map helps you locate the AED closest to you should you need it.

If you’re unsure of how to respond to an emergency, the app also includes easy-toread instructions for performing CPR and using an AED. There’s also an option to turn off notifications if you won’t be able to respond to an emergency during a given time-frame, or if you aren’t yet comfortable providing help. The app can still be helpful, even if you don’t feel comfortable performing CPR. Because the app receives information on medical calls, you’ll also see traffic crash and fire alarm information come across your PulsePoint app, making it easier to avoid areas where an accident has tied up the roadways.

Still, the primary focus in obtaining the app has been to improve survival rates for victims of medical emergencies.

In places where the app is used, medical workers have reported an increase in patient survival. We hope you’ll sign up for the app to help lend a hand to those who might be in need.

NEAPOLITANfamily • January 2017

12/19/16 9:51 AM

COLLIER COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOLS

By Amanda Jackson, Communications & Community Engagement

“We are CCPS” Highlights District

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ith over 46,000 students, 7,000 staff members, 50 schools, and 23,000 square miles of land, it’s safe to say Collier County Public Schools is a big place. Each school has its own unique story, but with so many of them, it can be hard to know what makes each school so great. We’re trying to solve that problem with a new campaign we’ve dubbed “We Are CCPS.” The “We are CCPS” presentation takes you across the district, all in the span an hour, to show what makes the schools and the district so special.

The presentation is geared toward businesses and community groups that use CCPS information. Examples include realtors, builders, human resource departments, anyone new to the area, or anyone working to recruit new employees and businesses to the area. The initiative is designed to help community members better differentiate between what’s fact and what’s fiction in regards to education in Collier

County. By highlighting the unique character of each school, we provide information that digs deeper than the surface level, and hope we can create new narratives about each school throughout the community.

The presentation begins with a look at district demographics and gives you an overview of the district as a whole. From there, you’ll learn about some unique programs CCPS offers. For instance, all seventh grade students across the district take a trip to Florida Gulf Coast University to help them become college and career ready, one of the district’s goals. For many students, this is the first time they’ve stepped onto a college campus.

Another great example is the district’s engineering and entrepreneurship programs, which are in all eight of our high schools.

Beginning this school year, all middle schools have the Cambridge Secondary program for accelerated learners. These

offerings expand from elementary through secondary. Our youngest learners are participating in math and coding competitions to encourage STEAM learning at an early age. The list goes on and on.

But it’s not all about where we are now, it’s where we’re heading. During “We Are CCPS,” you’ll hear about upcoming plans and future goals for the district, including Spanish classes and Cambridge Primary in all our elementary schools.

If you would be interested in receiving this information, you may sign up for a “We Are CCPS” presentation by visiting www. collierschools.com/weareccps or call the district Communications office at 239-3770180. We would be happy to visit your office and meet with you and your staff. Or if you prefer, the district will be holding a “We Are CCPS” presentation at the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Administrative Center, located at 5775 Osceola Trail in Naples on Thursday, February 16, at 9:00 a.m.

NOW ACCEPTING SUMMER VPK 2535 Northbrooke Plaza Dr. Naples, FL 34119 (Across from Super Target)

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

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

YOUR COMMUNITY NEWS & EVENTS

• Top Rated VPK • Preschool Classes • Summer Camp LittlePeoplesSchool.info

Pure Florida Provides Cruises for Foster Kids, St. Matthew’s House

FREE OPEN HOUSE Sunday, January 15th • 9am-1pm Come in and play for free! Games, music, puppets, rides, and more! Plus, take advantage of exclusive Open House discounts!

Get FREE Lifetime Membership & $20.17 off your first month!

Over $95 in savings. Valid only at My Gym Naples during Open House.

(239) 431-6499 • mygym.com/naples Check out our schedule at CollierAdultEd.com

Call 239.377.1234 with questions 3 Ar

t Cla sses 3 Fo reign Lang Clas uage ses 3 Co mpu te Clas ses r

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ure Florida has teamed up with local nonprofits Friends of Foster Children Forever (FFCF) and St. Matthew’s House to provide cruises to celebrate milestones.

As part of the FFCF Birthday Club, foster children may choose a day within their birth month to come aboard a Pure Florida sightseeing or sunset cruise for a special outing with their families for free.

“Many times, foster children, in times of emergency, are removed from their homes with nothing other than the clothes they are wearing – they have so little to call their own,” said Jane Billings, executive director of FFCF. “This day of celebration gives them a memorable gift that is fun to share and enjoy with the families that are caring for them.”

As the mother of adopted children, Robin Rosario, director of sales and events for Pure Florida, has felt a close connection to this organization.

“I understand how time spent as a family can be influential in the lives of foster children and encourage bonding between a child and their foster parents and siblings,” Rosario said. “Our team at Pure Florida is delighted to provide foster families a day of celebration on the water, not only for foster children celebrating a birthday, but their entire foster family, bringing fun and sunshine to these remarkable families as they make memories to last a lifetime.”

Pure Florida’s also is partnering with St. Matthew’s House to provide cruises to employees, as well as graduates of the organization’s Justin’s Place Recovery Program, a long-term program for men and women combating drug and alcohol abuse. Graduates of Justin’s Place Recovery will earn a Pure Florida Fishing trip and a complimentary sightseeing cruise.

The mission of the Naples-based St. Matthew’s House is to change lives in a spiritual environment that is both compassionate and disciplined, as well as provide housing for the homeless and food for the needy. The Justin’s Place Recovery Program is a one-year Christian recovery program incorporating the 12-Step model. The NEAPOLITANfamily • January 2017

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Celebrate Recovery core curriculum is used to help clients overcome their hurts, habits, and hang-ups. Participation is voluntary and open to all men and women who want to change their lives.

“For our people to have fun, to celebrate success in a healthy way, to rejoice with friends, and to celebrate the victories and triumphs over one of life’s greatest struggles is such a blessing,” said Rev. Vann Ellison, president and CEO of St. Matthew’s House.

“It is a blessing to be able to get out on the water with the guys from Justin’s Place who don’t have the equipment to fish,” said Joe K., a member of Justin’s Place Recovery Program. “We are so grateful for this opportunity to build closer relationships with everyone in the program.”

For more information, visit www.PureFL.com or call 239-2634949; visit www.friendsoffosterchildren.net or call 239-262-1808; or visit www.stmatthewshouse.org.

NAPLES PREMIER YOUTH THEATRE Providing exceptional youth theatre education & performances ages 4+ for over 20 years

First Baptist Academy Wins STEAM Grant From Ding Darling

F

irst Baptist Academy (FBA) recently was awarded a $1,000 grant from the J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge YOUTH THEATRE OF Society to fund a school project that incorporates STEAM THE NAPLES PLAYERS and conservation.

KidzAct Youth Theatre of The Naples Players Fourth grade teachers David Gonzalez and Violet Lup subSugden Theatre • 701 5th Ave. South • Naples • FL 34102 mitted the grant proposal outlining the project, which promotes www.naplesplayers.org (239) 434-7340 conservation education within the fourth grade at FBA and uses the STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts, and math) approach for learning.

12/16/16 Through the project, students will build a greenhouse andTNP KIDZACT JANUARY 2017 AD.indd 1 plant different plant seeds native to Florida. They will learn about direct outdoor greenhouses by planting potatoes and observing their growth throughout a period of dry and wet weather patterns. Potato • Specializing in Infants, Children and Teens. farmers will help further enlighten the students by explaining the • Over 15 years experience. sun’s role in providing energy for the potato to grow in the right • After-school and Saturday appointments available.

• Most insurance accepted. environment, as well as the farming process of potatoes.

• In-network provider for Cigna, MetLife, Principal and more.

Finally, the students will present their projects to the entire elementary school. The presentations will be filmed and sent to the Ding Darling Refuge Society.

For additional information, contact Violet Lup atvlup@ fbalions.org.

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Located near Veterans Park Dr. Jennifer B. Hughes, DMD Pediatric Dentist 1879 Veterans Park Dr. Suite 1203 Naples, FL 34109

Phone: 239-260-7672

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PediatricDentistryofNaples.com NEAPOLITANfamily • January 2017

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Magical Musical Tour Gala Benefits David Lawrence Center

T

he David Lawrence Center’s annual fundraising gala “Magical Musical Tour – Dancing Through the Decades,” will be held on Friday, January 13 at 6:00 p.m. at The RitzCarlton, Naples Beach Resort.

The theme was inspired by the Center’s nearly 50-year history. This signature event promises a memorable evening of dining, dancing and fundraising in celebration of the Center’s five decades of serving the mental health and addiction treatment needs of our community. Guests are encouraged to dress in decade-inspired cocktail attire.

The gala is a critical component of the Center’s efforts to provide world-class, comprehensive prevention, intervention, and treatment services in Naples. Last year alone, more than 9,000 children and adults benefited over 220,000 treatment services and demand is growing as the community continues to grow. Proceeds from the gala will help the Center continue to deliver help and hope to thousands of children in need and enhance early intervention strategies.

“There are hundreds of charitable organizations in our community that help make Naples a better place to live,” said Robin Stranahan, co-chair of the event. “However, with its ever-increasing population, the critical needs of thousands of adults and children are rising at a staggering rate. Mental illness and addiction are two serious problems we must address by coming together to help those who cannot help themselves and providing them the best possible services.” She adds, “We are very fortunate to have David Lawrence Center in Naples providing top quality professional care that is available to everyone, but they need our financial support to continue their mission. The gala is a great avenue to help raise that support.”

To purchase tickets, visit DavidLawrenceCenter.org or call 239-304-3505.

NEAPOLITANfamily • January 2017

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Celebration of Reading Essay and Art Contest Accepting Entries

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ntries in the Florida Celebration of Reading Student Essay and Art Contest are being accepted through January 17.

Students in kindergarten through second grade in Collier, Lee, and Charlotte counties are eligible to compete in the contest offered by The Barbara Bush Foundation for Family Literacy.

The essay and art contest is based on best-selling children’s author Laura Numeroff’s book, “If You Give a Mouse a Cookie.”

Numeroff will make a guest appearance at the 17th Annual Florida Celebration of Reading.

Numeroff’s “books have been a staple in households across America for nearly three decades and are truly some of the most beloved books by children,” said Liza McFadden, president of the Barbara Bush Foundation. “We can’t wait to read the imaginative stories created by our young readers.”

Three winners will be selected from each grade. Winners and their parents will be recognized at a VIP breakfast. The students also will be Numeroff’s guests at the Celebration Student Breakfast and have the opportunity to share their winning submissions.

To enter the contest, young authors/illustrators are asked to write and illustrate a brief story that begins with the sentence, “If you give me a … I’m going to ask for a …” The submission should also include a drawing to illustrate the response.

Entries are limited to a maximum of 100 words, must include an illustration (no larger than 8½ by 11 inches), and are due by Wednesday, January 18 at 5 p.m. All entries must be submitted

electronically to contest@barbarabush.org. Contest guidelines and the official contest entry form are available at www.barbarabush. org/FloridaCelebrationContest. Winners will be notified by Friday, February 3 and posted to www.barbarabush.org.

For more information visit www.barbarabush.org/events.

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HEALTH & WELLNESS

By Anna Snyder

It’s Never Too Late to Learn to Swim

I

f you are an adult living in Southwest Florida who has never learned to swim, it’s time to check that item off your bucket list.

With our beautiful climate and proximity to the Gulf of Mexico, you’ve sat on the sidelines for too long. Luckily for you, Naples boasts a variety of opportunities for adults to learn this valuable skill.

Adults wait to learn to swim for a variety of reasons. Many adults living in Naples are transplants from other areas where opportunities for swimming aren’t as readily available. Others have had traumatic experiences that have kept them out of the water.

For many adults overcoming these types of obstacles, the safety of their children is their inspiration. Jeanne Epps, owner of AquaPaired and a private swim instructor, regularly teaches adults who are just learning to swim for the first time. “Adults beginning to swim for the first time have a variety of motivations,” she said. “Some adults own a pool and as their children learn to swim, they realize the importance of water safety and desire to learn to swim as well.”

From doggy paddle to Ironman Others, such as Jennifer Weidenbruch, a Naples resident who took swimming lessons through the YMCA, seek swimming instruction based upon a motivation to compete in triathlons. “The greatest success story I’ve had is Jennifer,” Danny Soto of the Greater Naples YMCA shared with me. “She went from not knowing how to swim a single length of the pool to completing an Ironman Triathlon (2.4 mile open water swim) in one year.” Weidenbruch’s husband was preparing to compete in an Ironman, and encouraged her to join him. “I felt confident in the running and cycling portions of the training and competition, but I was not confident at all about the swimming portion,” she shared. “At the time, I couldn’t really swim much beyond a doggy-paddle.”

Weidenbruch sought out instruction through the Greater 18

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Naples YMCA. “Within three or four lessons, I felt much more confident. The private lessons with my instructor gave me the skills and techniques I needed. I set small goals for myself, and I was able to reach them. I competed in a sprint-distance triathlon and Olympic triathlon before completing the Ironman,” she said.

Weidenbruch offered encouragement to other adults in a similar situation. “Don’t be embarrassed. I felt embarrassed when I first got going with swim lessons. I asked to schedule lessons during a time when the pool was empty. The YMCA graciously accommodated, but as I continued on, I realized there was no need to be embarrassed.

I really enjoyed the process.”

The Greater Naples YMCA, in partnership with Naples Swim School, offers private lessons for adults, as well as a Masters Swim Program through T2 Aquatics at the Norris Aquatic Center, according to Soto. Private lessons are available to adults of all levels.

“The foundational components do not change based on age,” Soto said. “The lessons are taught by our best instructors, and they tailor their approach based on the individual. Determining what type of learning that individual is most receptive to is more important than any technique adjustment based on age. Our instructors have many tools in their bag, and they use them all.”

The Greater Naples YMCA fields many inquiries from adults who classify themselves as beginning swimmers. “Every new swimmer thinks they are the worst swimmer the instructor will meet, and they are wrong,” Soto said. “It is never too late to become water safe, especially if you have children. But no matter what your purpose or your goals, learning to swim is worth the investment.”

Don’t bring a snake to the pool Kate Davenport, owner of Essential Swim Lessons in Naples, approaches adult beginning swimmers with the same encouraging NEAPOLITANfamily • January 2017

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message. “Adults are usually a little embarrassed and self-conscious about not knowing how to swim and tend to give up quickly. It definitely is a long process. For those attempting to overcome a fear or phobia, the process of learning to swim is extremely difficult. I tell all adult swimmers not to bring a snake (snakes are my phobia) to a lesson, and I promise not to scare them in the pool. I don’t think I would be as brave as the adults who call me for lessons.”

How does Davenport motivate her students to continue? “I often tell students about my first time floating in the water; it was one of the most amazing experiences of my life. I can only equate it to walking on the moon. Swimming is freedom, and I want every one of my students to experience that joy,” she said.

Ester Alvarez, one of Davenport’s students, had a negative past experience that affected her view of swimming. “After both my older sisters got in the adult-only pool at a theme park and almost drowned, I decided I didn’t want to go anywhere near water,” Alvarez explained.

“When I moved to Naples, I thought it might be wise to learn to swim. I took a few lessons here and there, but I needed personalized instruction to overcome my fear of water. Kate’s main focus was to teach me how to feel comfortable underwater and to overcome my fears. After about a month of sessions and a lot of hard work, it just came to me. I was calm and relaxed in the water, and I swam! It was so exciting and such a satisfying feeling I had never experienced before. Kate taught me how to swim, but she also taught me how to be patient and to persevere.”

Davenport works alongside her daughter, Sarah, who also instructs adult beginning swimmers. “My best techniques foster a sense of trust with students and providing encouragement every step of the way. I want to make adult swimmers feel comfortable,

and I try to reassure them so they trust me as an instructor. During lessons, I use a variety of methods and give positive feedback to counter self-doubt.”

Jeanne Epps of Aqua-Pairing introduces skills and techniques in a methodical way to adults learning to swim for the first time. “I start with kicking, and then we move on to strokes and breathing patterns. I get in the water with my students so they can see and experience skills first-hand.”

When her students start swimming laps with confidence, Epps knows they’ve acquired the ability to swim.

“This can take anywhere from six weeks to four months, she said.

“It depends upon a variety of factors. For some, I’m like a counselor or shrink – some of my students have had very negative experiences related to swimming in their childhood that they have anxiety about and need to move past.”

Whether your goal is to enjoy the pool and Gulf of Mexico with your family (and keep your kids safe at the same time), increase your options for physical fitness, or compete in a triathlon, now is the to “take the plunge”.

For additional information, contact:

u Greater Naples YMCA (in partnership with Naples Swim and T2 Aquatics), 239-591-0204.

u Essential Swim, 239-465-8602

u Collier County Parks & Recreation, 239-252-4000

u Aqua-Paired, LLC, 239-272-3861.

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ANNA SNYDER has a degree in English and Secondary Education from Wheaton College. She and her husband, Jim, have a daughter, Windley. Anna is passionate about writing, cooking, running, and playing the piano. the things he sees are not just remembered, they form a part of his soul.

Maria Montessori

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Keeping track of which restaurants offer free (or discounted) kid’s meals is an impossible task for parents, so we’ve done the legwork for you. Check the details below for each restaurant, as days and purchase requirements vary, even among different locations of some of the chains. We’d love to hear about other restaurants in Naples where kids can eat for free, so please share with us at info@neafamily.com.

APPLEBEE’S 5082 Airport Pulling Rd., Naples 34105 239-434-7744 Kid’s meals are $1.99 every Sunday.

BEEF O’BRADY’S 7385 Radio Rd., Naples 34104 239-348-2100 One free kid’s meal with the purchase of an adult entree on Tuesday nights 4-8 p.m.

BOB EVANS 2570 Northbrooke Plaza Dr., Naples 34119 239-598-5255 One free kid’s meal with each adult entrée purchase every Tuesday.

CICIS PIZZA 2650 Immokalee Rd., Naples 34110 239-597-0306 Kids 0-3 eat free every day.

D’AMICO & SONS 4691 9th St. N., Naples 34103 239-430-0955 One free kid’s meal with each adult meal purchase 11:30 a.m.-2 p.m. on Sundays.

FIREHOUSE SUBS 11178 Tamiami Tr. N., Naples 34110 239-500-7827 One kid’s meal is $.99 with the purchase of each adult meal on Mondays and Wednesdays.

HURRICANE GRILL & WINGS 6345 Naples Blvd. #7, Naples 34109 239-513-9900 One free kid’s meal with the purchase of an adult entrée on Monday nights.

IGUANA MIA 28051 S. Tamiami Tr., Bonita Springs 34134 239-949-1999 ½ priced kid’s meals all day on Sundays with each adult entrée purchase.

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IHOP 1921 Davis Blvd., Naples 34104 239-793-0704 6631 Dudley Dr., Naples 34105 239-643-7500 Kids eat free every night, 4-10 p.m. Purchase one adult entrée, and get one kid’s meal free.

LOZANO’S MEXICAN RESTAURANT 405 New Market Rd. E., Immokalee, 34145 239-658-9255 Kids 12 & under eat free on Wednesdays 3 p.m. to close with the purchase of an adult entrée.

MILLER’S ALE HOUSE 6320 Hollywood Dr., Naples 34109 239-591-0125 Kids eat free on Tuesdays with the purchase of an adult meal.

MOE’S SOUTHWEST GRILL 6434 Naples Blvd., Naples 34109 239-594-0065 7335 Radio Rd., Naples 34104 239-352-1212 1016 Immokalee Rd., Naples 34110 239-593-4993 One free kid’s meal with the purchase of an adult combo meal on Tuesdays, from 3 p.m. to closing.

NANA’S DINER 5555 Golden Gate Pkwy., Naples 34116 239-352-1401 Kids eat free on Tuesdays and Thursdays with each adult entrée purchase.

PERKIN’S RESTAURANT & BAKERY 4335 Tamiami Tr. E., Naples 34112 3585 Pine Ridge Rd., Naples 34109 27941 Crown Lake Blvd., Bonita Springs 34135 239-498-0300 One free kid’s meal with the purchase of an adult meal every Tuesday.

PINCHERS CRAB SHACK 1200 5th Ave. S., Naples 34102 239-434-6616 28580 Bonita Crossings Blvd., Bonita Springs 34135 239-948-1313 Free kid’s meal every day with the purchase of each entrée $15.99 or more.

RED ROBIN 10750 Tamiami Tr. N, Naples 34108 239-263-6114 Request a Burgers for Books flyer. Bring back the completed form listing the titles of five books your child has read, and receive a free kid’s meal.

RIB CITY 9191 Tamiami Tr. N., Naples 34108 239-591-3500 3871 Tamiami Tr. E., Naples 34112 239-417-9090 Kids under 4 years old receive a free meal with the purchase of each adult meal every day.

RUSTY BUCKET 9110 Strada Pl., Naples 34108 239-260-4152 Request a Buckateer Bookworm Bookmark Tracker. Bring back the completed tracker listing the titles of five books your child has read, and receive a free kid’s meal.

STEAK N SHAKE 2620 Pine Ridge Rd., Naples 34109 239-262-1039 Kids eat free Saturdays and Sundays. Dinein only with the purchase of an adult entrée over $8.

STEVIE TOMATO’S SPORTS PAGE 15215 Collier Blvd., Naples 34119 239-352-4266 One free kid’s meal with the purchase of each adult meal every Wednesday.

NEAPOLITANfamily • January 2017

12/19/16 9:55 AM

ASK THE OUTNUMBERED MOTHER

By Amy Hunter

Advice on Kids in Public Restrooms, Colorful Language from Toddlers

Amy Hunter grew up in the suburbs of Long Island singing Barbara Streisand hits into her hairbrush. When she’s not writing her hilarity fueled parenting memoir as The Outnumbered Mother, she’s a Naples living, butt wiping, soccer team carting, gourmet chef attempting, tennis skirt wearing, nontennis playing, self-proclaimed bad mamma jamma to three sons and a very understanding husband. You can find Amy online at the Theoutnumberedmother.com.

Amy: Well, we’ve done it. The books have officially closed on 2016, and we are running into 2017 with a smile on our face, a few layers of crushed granola bars and goldfish crackers on the minivan floor, and hopefully, a nice glass of wine at the end of the day for our effort. May you and your family have a year filled with health and happiness. This month our issues are all about “age appropriate situations.”

Let’s answer some questions.

Q: At what age do you stop taking kids of the opposite sex in the bathroom with you? Is it different for changing rooms?

Amy: For me, I gauge my answer to questions like this based on two different criteria: the age of the child and the risk of the situation. For example, if I went to the mall with all three of my sons tomorrow

and needed to use the bathroom, I would let my 11-year-old son wait outside the ladies room entrance by himself, I would allow my 6-year-old son to wait near the sinks until I was done in the stall, and would take my 2-year-old with me. This is an area we are familiar with, and my oldest child has a phone of his own. As for changing rooms, I usually have the younger children with me while the oldest has other scheduled activities. This is a typical situation as my kids have seen me in a bikini, which is the same as my underwear and bra. We don’t make a big deal about nudity or the human form in my home, but I try to dissuade the kids from running around naked and attempting to play soccer because, boundaries.

Q: How do I handle a pre-k child practicing “colorful” language he’s learned from school?

Amy: The toddler phase is hard for parents for a multitude of reasons. The top two being that your baby has just become a little person, seemingly overnight, and that your baby realizes they have become a little person, seemingly overnight. Most toddlers are learning many of their vocabulary words by mimic and repetition, and whether Mommy is the person who drops the occasional expletive or an older sibling or a newfound preschool friend, toddlers are gonna toddler.

Their whole job is about pushing your buttons and their boundaries. And a huge part of that sees how far they can go before you lose your mind.

If your toddler is using inappropriate words at home, do your best not to laugh (I know it’s sometimes impossible, especially when they use it in the proper context) but maintain that poker face, and then tell them that those words aren’t nice to say. If you don’t make a big deal out of it, they won’t treat it like a big deal. THE BIG DEAL IS THEIR ULTIMATE GOAL. Stay strong, hold your line, and hopefully, you won’t hear that word again until they’re 13 and they mumble it under their breath as you leave the room.

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2367 Vanderbilt Beach Rd., Suite 803 Naples, FL 34109

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RACHEL RECOMMENDS

By Bella Schaab

Forward: My Story by Abby Wambach Bella read the Young Readers Edition of| Forward: My Story, which is recommended for mature readers age 8-12. Adults may want to pick up Wambach's original autobiography, Forward: A Memoir.

struggles deepened. She had not been taking care of her body and often ate junk food.

Also, she began to fight with her mom and each fight got worse. Most importantly she now had a big secret to keep: she was a lesbian. She had feared her mother wouldn’t accept her and kept it a secret (and she didn’t come out to her mom until 2002).

Abby soon realized that her eating habits couldn’t continue, for she was unfit and couldn’t do the soccer practice. She decided to cut down on junk food and start exercising more. This greatly benefitted her, and she drafted by the Washington Freedom in the WUSA (Women’s United Soccer Association) in February 2002, with only a few months of college left at the University of Florida (where she helped the Gators win their first national championship).

S

occer player. Feminist. Lesbian. Person. These are all words to describe former U.S. soccer player Abby Wambach. Abby’s new book Forward: My Story tells about her life as a soccer player.

However, this book is not just about soccer but about the inspiring tale of a woman destined to play on the field.

Abby Wambach is one of the greatest soccer players, ever! She won two Olympic Gold medals and the World Cup in 2005, and she was named World Player of the Year in 2013. Abby has scored more international goals than any other player in history.

Score more Even when Abby was a child her life wasn’t easy. She had started playing soccer at a very young age and was a natural. Although she played well and was generally good at it her parents weren’t impressed and always told she to score more. Because of this she felt she was unloved and also unlovable. On top of that she soon realized that the only reason she liked soccer was because she loved the recognition she got from winning more than the sport. Her feelings toward soccer would later change, but I think this would be hard to deal with at such a young age.

When Abby became a teenager, her

ISABELLA “BELLA” SCHAAB is a fifth grader at Sea Gate Elementar y. She is an avid reader who really enjoys science fiction fantasy books. Bella also likes hanging out with her friends, listening to music, and swimming.

Moving forward Most of this book is about her amazing and heart-wrenching adulthood. Full of success and losses both on and off the field. I believe that it is inspiring how she celebrates and grieves over the events happening in her life. She always tries to be strong and when she isn’t she finds strength in others.

In conclusion, I loved the book. She is very straight to the point and honest. It talks about both the good and the bad, it is down to earth and real. Abby has faced many obstacles but has learned how to deal with them throughout her life and will always move Forward.

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12/19/16 2:05 PM

A New Montessori Preschool Opening Fall 2017 in East Naples.

The

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An environmentally-conscious academic preschool program for children aged 2-6.

Accepting applications for enrollment now!

www.gardenschoolnaples.com

info@gardenschoolnaples.com • (239) 424-9084 • 6051 bayshore drive, naples NEAPOLITANfamily • January 2017

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11:00 a.m. Dr Martin Luther King Jr Day Parade. The parade will line up on Broad Ave, then head north on 3rd Street South, right on 5th Ave South, and end on 8th Street South. Call 239-6928436 or check fifthavenuesouth.com.

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9:30 a.m. WONDER Kids. Drop in until 2 p.m. to the Smith Children’s Garden for fun activities. Naples Botanical Garden, 4820 Bayshore Dr., Naples. Call 239643-7275 or check www. naplesgarden.org.

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3:30 p.m. Meals of Hope Mobile Food Pantry. Frozen food, fresh produce, and canned goods will all be given away to families in need. Every Tuesday, 3:30-5:30 p.m.

Greater Naples YMCA, 5450 YMCA Rd., Naples.

Call 239-597-3148 or visit greaternaplesymca.org.

6:00 p.m. Chess Club for K-12. Join Antonio as he shares his skills at chess with students entering K-12. For all playing levels. Located at Headquarters Library, 2385 Orange Blossom Dr., Naples. Call 239-5930870 or check www.public. collier-lib.org.

tuesday

5:30 p.m. Commo- 6:15 p.m. Discover tion in the Ocean. Your World: China.

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9:30 a.m. Blood Drive. Successful donors will receive a free movie ticket and a chance to win a $50 Waterside Shops gift certificate. Located at Waterside Shops, 5415 Tamiami Trail N., Naples.

Call 239-598-1605 or check watersideshops.com.

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January

10:00 a.m. CollierSeminole State Park First Day Hike. A ranger-guided hike through Collier-Seminole State Park.

Learn about its unique features. Located at CollierSeminole State Park, 20200 Tamiami Trail E., Naples.

Call 239-394-3397 for details.

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6:00 p.m. Marco Murder & Mayhem Ghost Tour. Your ghost tour guide will lead you to the island’s forgotten secrets with stories of its most tragic inhabitants. Olde Marco Inn, 100 Palm St., Marco. 239-537-8353 or marcomurderandmayhem. com.

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5:00 p.m. Big Swamp Smoke Off. Top BBQ teams, craft beer, face painting, games, and more. Free admission. Collier County Fairgrounds, 751 39th Avenue NE, Naples. Call 239-455-1444 or check www.colliercountyfair.com/fairgrounds-info.

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11:00 a.m. Marco Island Pirate Day. A fun-filled afternoon with pirate-themes arts and crafts, face painting, and treasure hunts. Marco Island Historical Museum, 180 South Heathwood Dr., Marco Island. Call 239-642-1440 or check colliermuseums.com.

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10:00 a.m. Sensory Friendly Screening of Monster Trucks.

Lights are up, sound is down, and you are totally free to move around.

Paragon Pavilion Theaters, 833 Vanderbilt Beach Rd., Naples. 239-596-0008 or paragontheaters.com.

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9:00 a.m. Kiwanis Medieval Faire.

Tickets are available on the grounds of the faire.

Free for trolls and children 5 and younger. Located at Lakes Regional Park, 7330 Gladiolus Dr., Fort Myers.

Call 239-533-7575.

saturday

3 : 3 0 p . m . L e g o 6:30 p.m. Chalk Art. 7:00 p.m. Koreshan 1:00 p.m. Country Club. Join the club and Explore your creative side Ghost Walk. Historical Jam Florida. Easton

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5:30 p.m. Pups ‘n’ Books. Stop by to read to a dog or just to pet one. All ages. Registration not required. East Naples Library, 8787 Tamiami Trail E., Naples. Call 239775-5592 or check public. collier-lib.org.

5:00 p.m. Montessori Academy of Naples Open House. More information can be found on our website at www.naplesmontessori.org. Montessori Academy of Naples, 2659 Professional Circle, Naples. Call 239-5972255.

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5:30 p.m. Star Wars Party. Come dressed as your favorite Star Wars character and enjoy all things Star Wars. All ages.

Located at Immokalee Branch Library, 417 North First St., Immokalee. Call 239-657-2882 or check public.collier-lib.org.

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7:30 p.m. Bell, Book, and Candle.

A comedy about a witch in 1950s high-society Manhattan. Located at Sugden Community Theatre, 701 5th Ave. S., Naples.

Call 434-7340, ext. 39, or check www.naplesplayers.org.

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10:00 a.m. Little Explorers. Explore nature and discover amazing animals through multi-sensory, interactive activities, stories, and animal-themed crafts. Conservancy of SWFL, 1495 Smith Preserve Way, Naples. Call 239-262-0304.

5:30 p.m. Sewing Classes for Kids.

Sew both by hand and machine. Please bring your own machine, but if you don’t have one, we provide you with one. Ages 5-13. Located at Etudes de Ballet, 3285 Pine Ridge Rd., Naples.

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5:30 p.m. Art Classes for Kids. Explore and work with different techniques and media.

Acrylics on canvases, watercolor, collages, mixed media, etc. Ages 4 to 12.

Located at Etudes de Ballet, 3285 Pine Ridge Rd., Naples.

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10:00 a.m. SWFL Veg Fest. Vegan food, live music, fun and games, exhibitors, animal adoptions, cooking demos, and more. Centennial Park, 2000 West First St., Fort Myers. Check www.fortmyersmusicwalk.com.

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6:15 p.m. Discover Your World: China.

It’s the Year of the Rooster.

Experience Chinese culture through food samples, crafts, and demonstrations.

South County Regional Library, 21100 Three Oaks Pkwy., Estero. Call 239479-4636.

5:30 p.m. Commotion in the Ocean.

A fishy fun evening with ocean crafts and activities.

Ages 4-10 years. Registration required. East Naples Library, 8787 Tamiami Trail E., Naples. Call 239775-5592 or check public. collier-lib.org.

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6:30 p.m. Chalk Art. Explore your creative side by practicing your chalk lettering and creating a chalk craft to take home.

Ages 11-15 years. Headquarters Library, 2385 Orange Blossom Dr., Naples. Call 239-5930870.

3:30 p.m. Lego Club. Join the club and share ideas, be creative, make new friends and have fun. Ages 5-11 years.

South Regional Library, 8065 Lely Cultural Pkwy., Naples. Call 239-2527542 or check public. collier-lib.org.

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5:30 p.m. The Shy Wolf. Staff and a fourlegged ambassador from Shy Wolf Sanctuary will be here to tell us more about these fascinating creatures.

Ages 6-11. Estates Branch Library, 1266 Golden Gate Blvd. W., Naples. Call 239455-8088.

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7:00 p.m. Koreshan Ghost Walk. Historical figures come “alive” and tell their stories. Limited tickets are available by calling 239-992-0311. Koreshan State Historic Site, 3800 Corkscrew Rd., Estero.

Check www.floridastateparks.org.

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1:00 p.m. Country Jam Florida. Easton Corbin, Josh Turner, Joe Nichols, and more of your favorite artists. Collier County Fairgrounds, 751 39th Ave., NE, Naples.

Call 239-455-1444 or check www.colliercountyfair.com/fairgrounds-info.

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YOUR COMMUNITY January EVENTS CALENDAR SUBMISSIONS:

1 SUNDAY

To submit your event for both our online and print calendars, go to the Calendar at neafamily.com and follow the instructions for inputting event information.

8:00 a.m. Farmers Market. Join us in the historic settlement of Koreshans. Our quaint summer market offers local produce, fresh seafood, local honey, handcrafted goods, pickles and olives, and fresh mozzarella cheese. Located at Koreshan State Historic Site, 3800 Corkscrew Rd., Estero. Call 239-992-0311 or check www.floridastateparks.org for additional information.

9:00 a.m. Traditional Yoga in the Park. Traditional yoga class focuses on breathing, stretching, and postures. Modifiable for all ages and levels of participants. Located at Koreshan State Historic Site, 3800 Corkscrew Rd., Estero. Call 239-992-0311 or check www.floridastateparks.org for additional information.

9:30 a.m. WONDER Kids at Botanical Gardens.

Drop in until 2 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday to the Smith Children’s Garden for fun activities. Located at Naples Botanical Garden, 4820 Bayshore Dr., Naples.

Call 239-643-7275 or check www.naplesgarden.org.

10:00 a.m. Historical Tours at Koreshan State Park. Walk the grounds of the utopian community that helped establish Estero. Located at Koreshan State Historic Site, 3800 Corkscrew Rd., Estero. Call 239-992-0311 or check www.floridastateparks.org.

10:00 a.m. Collier-Seminole State Park First Day Hike. Come enjoy a ranger-guided hike through Collier-Seminole State Park, and learn about some of its unique natural and historical features. Located at Collier-Seminole State Park, 20200 Tamiami Trail East, Naples. Call 239-394-3397 for details.

The deadline for print calendar events is the 12th of the month preceding publication. You can submit events anytime for the online calendar.

Note: Please check dates and times before attending events. As Neapolitan Family staff does not enter all calendar data, we cannot guarantee its accuracy.

11:15 a.m. Spanish Church Service. St. Monica’s Church, in support of the Latino community, holds a Spanish-speaking service every Sunday. Located at St. Monica’s Church, 7070 Immokalee Rd., Naples.

Call 239-591-4550 or check www.stmonicasnaples. org for additional information.

12:00 p.m. Sip and Shop Sundays. Visit the Bloody Mary Bar at Waterside Shops’ Pavilion every Sunday from until 3 p.m. with proceeds donated to different charities each month. Located at Waterside Shops, 5415 Tamiami Trail N., Naples. Call 239-5981605 or check www.watersideshops.com.

2:00 p.m. Free Concerts at the Bandshell. Bring a blanket for the whole family and enjoy free jazz concerts. Located at Cambier Park, 755 8th Ave. S., Naples. Call 239-213-3058 or check www.naplesgov. com/index.aspx?NID=576 for additional information.

3:00 p.m. Meet the Composers Classical Music Series. Join international artist and lecturer, Dr. Anne McLean the first Sunday of each month. Located at Center for Performing Arts – Hinman Auditorium, 10150 Bonita Beach Rd., Bonita Springs. Call 239495-8989 or check www.artcenterbonita.org.

2 MONDAY 9:00 a.m. Baby Boot Camp at Miromar Outlets.

Certified fitness professionals instruct exercise classes for pregnant, post-natal, and ultra-fit moms. Classes are every Monday, Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday at MundoMax Playland. Located at Miromar Outlets,

Happy kids. Sparkly smiles.

Try it at our office.

ZOOBY

Exclusively marketed by Denticator™

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

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Naples Pediatric Dentistry goodcheckup.com

239.592.0800

NEAPOLITANfamily • January 2017

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10801 Corkscrew Rd., Estero. Call 239-948-3766 or check www.miromaroutlets. com for additional information.

9:30 a.m. Blood Drive. Successful donors will receive a free movie ticket and a chance to win a $50 Waterside Shops gift certificate. Located at Waterside Shops, 5415 Tamiami Trail N, Naples. Call 239-598-1605 or check www.watersideshops. com for more information.

10:00 a.m. Art Divine $150 or Less Show. Free to the public, non-members are welcome to come view. Located at Fort Myers Beach Art Association, 3030 Shell Mound, Fort Myers Beach.

5:30 p.m. Art Classes for Kids. Kids will explore and work with different techniques and media every Monday. Acrylics on canvases, watercolor, collages, mixed media, etc. Ages 4 to 12. Located at Etudes de Ballet, 3285 Pine Ridge Rd., Naples.

6:30 p.m. Films for Film Lovers. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. and films begin at 7:00 p.m. Join our lively and entertaining film discussion after each film, led by a Film Society Chairman and a Film Society Member. Located at Center for the Arts of Bonita Springs, 26100 Old 41 Rd., Bonita Springs. Call 239-495-8989 or check artcenterbonita.org for additional information.

INDIVIDUAL INSTRUCTION FOR STRUGGLING READERS

• Certified Reading Specialist • Naples Location by Arrangement • All Ages • 25 Years Experience • Methods: Orton-Gillingham & Reading Recovery • Children with Dyslexia, ADD and other challenges • Approved service provider for the Gardiner Scholarship

239-233-9400

Additional Services for Homeschool Families: Annual Certification of Progress and Curriculum& Instruction Guidance info@ReadingRescueCenters.com • ReadingRescueCenters.com

3 TUESDAY Call for dates & times. Cinderella the Musical. Through January 8. Located at Barbara B. Mann Performing Arts Hall, 13350 Edison Pkwy., Fort Myers. Call 239-481-4849 or check www.bbmannpah.com for additional information.

10:00 a.m. Moms and Tots Storytime with Miss Jessica and Miss Mary Ellen.

A toddler favorite, the girls read, sing, dance and color, creating a fun atmosphere of learning and lots of laughter. Come and ask about the little green frog song. All ages are welcome. Located at Barnes & Noble, 5377 Tamiami Trail North, Naples.

Call 239-597-2040 or check bn.com for additional information.

10:00 a.m. Family Story Time at South County Regional Library. Your whole family is invited to this enjoyable, all-ages storytime that encourages the development of pre-reading skills through songs, rhymes, fingerplays and stories. All children attending must be registered. Please be on time. Located at South County Regional Library, 21100 Three Oaks Pkwy., Estero. Call 239-479-4636 for information.

3:30 p.m. Meals of Hope Mobile Food Pantry. In the Greater Naples YMCA parking lot every Tuesday, 3:30 to 5:30 p.m. Frozen food, fresh produce, and canned goods will all be given away to families in need. Located at Greater Naples YMCA, 5450 YMCA Rd., Naples. Call 239-597-3148 or check greaternaplesymca.org.

6:00 p.m. Chess Club for K-12. Join Antonio as he shares his skills at chess with students entering kindergarten through 12th grade. For all playing levels, beginner to advanced. Registration is not required. Located at Headquarters Library, 2385 Orange Blossom Dr., Naples. Call 239-593-0870 or check public.collier-lib.org.

4 WEDNESDAY 7:30 a.m. Marco Island Farmers Market. Every Wednesday. Located at Veteran’s Park, 901 Park Ave., Marco Island. Call 239-566-2367 or check www.colliergov.net.

9:00 a.m. Whole Foods Farmer’s Market. Every Wednesday on the front patio.

Located at Whole Foods, 9101 Strada Pl., Naples. Call 239-552-5100 or check www. wholefoodsmarket.com/stores/naples for additional information.

9:30 a.m. Historical Walking Tours. Admission is $10 for members or $16 for non-members. Includes a 30-minute tour of Historic Palm Cottage and a 90-minute walking tour around the Naples Historic District. Reservations required. Located at Historic Palm Cottage, 137 12th Avenue S., Naples. Call 239-261-8164 for details.

10:00 a.m. Preschool Story Time at South County Regional Library. Parents and caregivers encourage independence by waiting nearby in the library for this program. The stories and activities may be longer but just as fun. You must register for each week of the six-week session. Please be on time. Located at South County Regional Library, 21100 Three Oaks Pkwy., Estero. Call 239-479-4636 for additional information.

10:00 a.m. Exploring Coastal Estuaries. A naturalist-guided walk to the estuary and along a sandy trail to the beach. Explore one of the most productive ecosystems in nature and unique coastal habitats. Located at Barefoot Beach Preserve, 505 Barefoot Beach Blvd., Bonita Springs. Call 239-252-4000 or check www. friendsofbarefootbeach.org.

10:00 a.m. Free Kids Crafts at Miromar Outlets. Kids from toddlers to 12 are invited to participate in fun activities. Located at Miromar Outlets, 10801 Corkscrew Rd., Estero. Call 239-948-3766 or check www.miromaroutlets.com for details.

NEAPOLITANfamily • January 2017

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

Serving children Infant - age 5 VPK Certified

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

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

Tir Na Nog Academy of Irish Dance

Our mission is to promote the heritage and culture of Irish Dance.

Visit us online at tirnanogdance.com or call 239-455-7225 Call Us to Schedule Your First Class FREE. neafamily.com

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10:30 a.m. Family Story Time at Bonita Springs Library. This program is for the whole family and lasts about 30 minutes. Located at Bonita Springs Public Library, 26876 Pine Ave., Bonita Springs. Call 239-992-0101 or check library.

Lee-county.com.

2:00 p.m. Gearheadz. Put together some gears and watch them spin, build with gear-shaped objects, or create Gearheadz art with Super Spirograph. For ages 6 and up. Located at South County Regional Library, 21100 Three Oaks Pkwy., Estero.

Call 239-479-4636 for additional information.

5:30 p.m. Sewing Classes for Kids. Every Wednesday. Sew both by hand and machine. Please bring your own machine, but if you don’t have one, we provide you with one. Ages 5-13. Located at Etudes de Ballet, 3285 Pine Ridge Rd., Naples.

5 THURSDAY 10:00 a.m. Tai Chi in the Garden. Instructor Karen McNeil hosts this energyflow exercise every Thursday. Located at Naples Botanical Garden, 4820 Bayshore Dr., Naples. Call 239-643-7275 or check www.naplesgarden.org for additional information.

10:00 a.m. Toddler Tales at South County Regional Library. This interactive time for toddlers ages 18-36 months and their caregiver will include storytelling, wordplay, fingerplays, and music-making designed to advance pre-reading skills.

Located at South County Regional Library, 21100 Three Oaks Pkwy., Estero. Call 239-479-4636.

10:00 a.m. Little Explorers. Explore nature and discover amazing animals through multi-sensory, interactive activities, stories, and animal-themed crafts. Ages 18 months to 5 years. Located at Conservancy of SW Florida, 1495 Smith Preserve Way, Naples. Call 239-262-0304 or check www.conservancy.org/summercamp.

1:00 p.m. Goddess Yoga in the Park. This form of yoga incorporates goddess mythology into the physical practice of yoga, allowing participates to embrace and internalize the symbolic nature of each goddess in the practice. Located at Koreshan State Historic Site, 3800 Corkscrew Rd., Estero. Call 239-992-0311 or check www. floridastateparks.org for additional information.

3:45 p.m. Sunset Concert. The concert will take place in the large gazebo located right on the beach. Located at Lovers Key State Park, 8700 Estero Blvd., Estero.

Call 239-463-4588 for additional information.

4:00 p.m. Book Buddies. During one-on-one reading time, “Big Reading Buddies” are paired with “Little Reading Buddies”. Ages 7-10. Located at Golden Gate Library, 2432 Lucerne Rd., Naples. Call 239-252-4542 or check public.collier-lib. org for more information.

4:15 p.m. Afterschool Art Class. Ages 7-9 years. Sessions could include painting, printmaking, stamping, drawing, sculpting, and occasionally clay. Must pre-register.

Located at Golden Gate Community Center, 4701 Golden Gate Pkwy., Naples.

Call 239-252-4180 or check colliergov.net for additional information.

7:00 p.m. LEGO Skyline London and Chicago Event. Help build our exciting, new LEGO® Skyline collection in-store display for London and Chicago. Located at Barnes & Noble, 5377 Tamiami Trail North, Naples. Call 239-597-2040 or check bn.com.

6 FRIDAY 9:00 a.m. Find it Fridays. Kids enjoy a scavenger hunt all day. Located at Everglades Wonder Gardens, 27180 Old 41 Rd., Bonita Springs. Call 239-992-2591 or check www.evergladeswondergardens.com for additional information.

10:00 a.m. Beachcombing and Shelling Talk. What do wrack lines, jellies, blue buttons, beachhoppers, ghosts, sea pork, and beans have in common? Located at Barefoot Beach Preserve, 505 Barefoot Beach Blvd., Bonita Springs. Call 239-2524000 or check www.friendsofbarefootbeach.org for additional information.

5:00 p.m. First Friday’s Art for Art Lovers. Gourmet food, fine wine, and art demonstrations. Located at Shoppes of Old Marco, 258 Royal Palm Dr., Marco Island. Call 239-394-2787 for additional information.

5:00 p.m. Big Swamp Smoke Off. Friday and Saturday. Free admission. Located at Collier County Fairgrounds, 751 39th Avenue NE, Naples. Call 239-455-1444 or check www.colliercountyfair.com/fairgrounds-info for additional information.

6:00 p.m. Wine Tasting & Live Music. Join us the first Friday of every month wine tasting and live music. Located at Whole Foods, 9101 Strada Pl., Naples. Call 239-552-5100 or check www.wholefoodsmarket.com/stores/naples for additional information.

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7 SATURDAY 7:30 a.m. Third Street South Farmer’s Market. Parking lot behind Tommy Bahama’s. Located at Third Street S., Naples. Call 239-434-6533 or check info@ napleschamber.org for additional information.

9:00 a.m. Greenmarket. Join us on our 10-acre campus every Saturday to find an exclusive selection of locally grown, caught and cultivated foods and other products available to sample and purchase. Located at Alliance for the Arts, 10091 McGregor Blvd., Fort Myers. Call 239-939-2787 or check www.artinlee.org for additional information.

9:00 a.m. Chess Club for K-12. Join the new chess club for students in kindergarten through 12th grade. For all playing levels, beginner to advanced. Located at Marco Island Branch Library, 210 S. Heathwood Dr., Marco Island. Call 239-3943272 or check public.collier-lib.org for additional information.

10:00 a.m. Artists@Work at GreenMarket. The SWFL Florida Fine Craft Guild members demonstrate their specialties during this free demo day. Located at Alliance for the Arts, 10091 McGregor Blvd., Fort Myers. Call 239-939-2787 or check www.artinlee.org for more information.

10:00 a.m. Estero Fine Art Show. This top rated and juried event showcases high quality artists from around the globe and the local area. Located at Miromar Design Center, 10800 Corkscrew Rd., Estero. Call 941-755-3088 for additional information.

10:00 a.m. Marine Science Kids Cruise. The Marine Science Kids Cruises are free to children with paid adult admission as part of Pure Florida’s Kids Cruise Free program. Located at The Marina at Edison Ford, 2360 West First St., Fort Myers.

Call 239-919-2965 or check www.pureFL.com for additional information.

10:00 a.m. Art in the Park presented by the Naples Art Association. Art in the Park showcases paintings in oil and acrylics, watercolors, mixed media, photography, sculpture, ceramics, glass art, jewelry, and wood-working created by members in good standing of the Naples Art Association. For art lovers, it’s a ca... Located at Cambier Park, 755 8th Ave. S., Naples. Call 239-213-3058 or check www.naplesgov. com/index.aspx?NID=576 for additional information.

10:00 a.m. Big Swamp Smoke Off. Free admission. Located at Collier County Fairgrounds, 751 39th Avenue NE, Naples. Call 239-455-1444 or check www. colliercountyfair.com/fairgrounds-info for additional information.

10:00 a.m. New Year’s Art Fair. Start the New Year off in style at this wellestablished art festival. Located at Fifth Avenue South, Naples. Call 239-692-8436 or check www.fifthavenuesouth.com for additional information.

10:00 a.m. Florida Arbor Day. The event is included with admission and will include tree-climbing demonstrations from Davey Tree, tree tours of zoo grounds, and educational displays. Located at Naples Zoo at Caribbean Gardens, 1590 Goodlette-Frank Rd., Naples. Call 239-262-5409 or check www.caribbeangardens. com for details.

9:00 a.m. Kiwanis Medieval Faire. Jan. 7, 8, 14, & 15. Tickets are available on the grounds of the faire at $15 for adults 12 and up, $5 for children 5 to 11, and free for children (and trolls) under 5. Located at Lakes Regional Park, 7330 Gladiolus Dr., Fort Myers. Call 239-533-7575 for additional information.

10:00 a.m. Little Explorers. Explore nature and discover amazing animals through multi-sensory, interactive activities, stories, and animal-themed crafts. Ages 18 months to 5 years. Located at Conservancy of SW Florida, 1495 Smith Preserve Way, Naples. Call 239-262-0304 or check www.conservancy.org/summercamp for details.

10:45 a.m. Junior, Youth & Teen Tennis. Ages 6-9 years, 10:45-11:30 a.m.; Youth Tennis, ages 10-12, 11:45 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Teen Tennis, ages 13-15, 12:45 p.m.-1:30 p.m. Located at Golden Gate Community Park, 3300 Santa Barbara Blvd., Naples. Call 239-252-6128 or check colliergov.net for additional information.

11:00 a.m. Barnes and Noble Storytime. Storytime every Saturday. Located at Barnes & Noble, 5377 Tamiami Trail N., Naples. Call 239-597-2040 or check bn.com for more information.

2:00 p.m. Alligator Fishing. Every Saturday join us for Alligator Fishing! For $5 plus admission, you get a cane pool with a hot dog to feed our 37 gators. Located at Everglades Wonder Gardens, 27180 Old 41 Rd., Bonita Springs. Call 239-9922591 or check www.evergladeswondergardens.com for additional information.

4:00 p.m. Improv Cafe. Bring your family out to “Little Shop of Improv”, the first Saturday of every month. Located at Center for the Arts of Bonita Springs, 10150 Bonita Beach Rd., Bonita Springs. Call 239-495-8989 or check artcenterbonita.org.

8:00 p.m. Improv Tonight at the Center for The Arts Bonita Springs. Be as involved in the show as you’d like; whether you’re just setting a scene with your suggestions, or whether you’re on stage as a player! Beer and wine available.

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FREE registration when you bring in this ad!

• Serving ages 1-5 • Licensed quality early care & education • Reggio Emilia inspired philosophy with a daily focus on the arts & music • Safe learning environment with credentialed teachers • High-quality, experiential, child-centered curriculum • Scholarships available • School Readiness & VPK vouchers accepted • Open Monday-Friday, 7 am–5:30 pm

Now Enrolling! Call 239.980.9021

Located in Emmanuel Lutheran 777 Mooring Line Drive, Naples, FL Visit www.collierchildcare.org

We buy & sell gently used kids stuff • Clothing (newborn to size 16), toys, baby furniture, equipment and more.

• We pay cash on the spot.

• No appointment necessary, clothes must be freshly laundered and brought in a plastic container.

13560 Tamiami Trail N #4, Naples,

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Also in: Fort Myers at 239-274-0039 Port Charlotte at 941-764-8121

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Located at Center for Performing Arts-Moe Auditorium, 10150 Bonita Beach Rd., SE, Bonita Springs. Call 239-495-8989 or check www.artcenterbonita.org for additional information.

8 SUNDAY 9:00 a.m. Sunday Birding at the Conservancy. Join a naturalist on the beach near the pass to view birds through a scope and ask questions. Look for your guide in the orange vest near the pass. Located at Clam Pass Beach Park, 410 Seagate Dr., Naples.

9 MONDAY 8:00 a.m. Painting in Graphite. Learn how to realistically draw portraits in graphite. Located at Rookery Bay Environmental Learning Center, 300 Tower Rd., Naples.

10 TUESDAY 4:00 p.m. Rock Art for Kids and Teens. Design art on rocks with Sharpies. All supplies will be provided. For ages 5 and up. Located at Bonita Springs Public Library, 26876 Pine Ave., Bonita Springs. Call 239-992-0101 or check library.

Lee-county.com.

6:15 p.m. Teen to Teen: YouTube Movies. Meet a teen who has a passion for movie making on YouTube. He will share his tips, tricks and short special effects.

Located at South County Regional Library, 21100 Three Oaks Pkwy., Estero. Call 239-479-4636.

11 WEDNESDAY Call for times. Riverdance. January 11-15. Call for tickets and times. Www. bbmannpah.com. Located at Barbara B. Mann Performing Arts Hall, 13350 Edison Pkwy., Fort Myers. Call 239-481-4849 or check www.bbmannpah.com for additional information.

Call for times. Bell, Book and Candle. Located at Sugden Community Theatre, 701 5th Ave. S., Naples. Call 434-7340, ext. 39, or check www.naplesplayers.org for more information.

4:00 p.m. LEGO Club at Estates Branch Library. Share ideas, be creative, make new friends and have fun! LEGO® bricks will be provided. Your LEGO® creation will be put on display at the library. Ages 5-11 years. Registration is not required.

Located at Estates Branch Library, 1266 Golden Gate Blvd. W., Naples. Call 239455-8088 or check public.collier-lib.org for additional information.

5:00 p.m. Montessori Academy of Naples Open House. More information can be found on our website at www.naplesmontessori.org. Located at Montessori Academy of Naples, 2659 Professional Circle, Naples. Call 239-597-2255.

6:00 p.m. Tales from the Coast: Clyde Butcher. Photographer Clyde Butcher will share experiences and images from more than 50 years. Located at Rookery Bay Environmental Learning Center, 300 Tower Rd., Naples.

7:00 p.m. Epilepsy Support Group. Join us for our monthly support group.

Located at Greater Naples YMCA, 5450 YMCA Rd., Naples. Call 239-597-3148 or check greaternaplesymca.org for additional information.

12 THURSDAY 3:30 p.m. Lego Club. Join the club and share ideas, be creative, make new friends and have fun! Lego® bricks will be provided. Ages 5-11 years. Registration is not required. Located at Marco Island Branch Library, 210 S. Heathwood Dr., Marco Island. Call 239-394-3272 or check public.collier-lib.org for additional information.

4:00 p.m. Makerspace. A Makerspace is a place where kids of all ages can have fun while they create, construct, code, learn and share. Experience robots, electricity, Lego®, and more. Ages 4-14 years. Located at East Naples Library, 8787 Tamiami Trail East, Naples. Call 239-775-5592 or check public.collier-lib.org for details.

5:30 p.m. Star Wars Party. Come dressed as your favorite Star Wars character and enjoy all things Star Wars! All ages. Registration required. Located at Immokalee Branch Library, 417 North First St., Immokalee. Call 239-657-2882 or check public. collier-lib.org for additional information.

6:30 p.m. Evening on Fifth. This fabulous free street party happens every second

Art

Preschool VPK Kindergarten

Bible

Music

Science

Heavenly Day Preschool Innovative teaching in a loving & nurturing environment

Lic: L10000047664

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Openings Available 239-438-6281

Small classes with individualized instruction NEAPOLITANfamily • January 2017

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Thursday through April, featuring live music,dining, dancing, shopping, and fun on Fifth. Located at Fifth Avenue South, Naples. Call 239-692-8436 or check www. fifthavenuesouth.com for additional information.

13 FRIDAY 8:00 a.m. Birding Basics. Enjoy this fun and informative class designed to help you identify birds around you. Oriented toward the beginning birder, the session explores how to use birds’ plumage, shape, behavior and habitat to recognize various species.

Located at Rookery Bay Environmental Learning Center, 300 Tower Rd., Naples.

9:00 a.m. SWFL Nature Festival. Explore the local environment through guided field trips to wildlife hot spots around Southwest Florida and lectures at the Rookery Bay Environmental Learning Center. Field trips, including birding walks, buggy rides and kayak tours, are offered. Located at Rookery Bay Environmental Learning Center, 300 Tower Rd., Naples.

6:00 p.m. Marco Murder and Mayhem Ghost Tour. Your ghost tour guide will lead you to the island’s forgotten secrets with stories of its most tragic inhabitants.

Located at Olde Marco Inn, 100 Palm St., Marco Island. Call 239-537-8353 or check www.marcomurderandmayhem.com for additional information.

6:00 p.m. Indoor Movie Night. Come and enjoy a family oriented movie. Popcorn and drinks will be provided. $5. Located at Immokalee Community Park, 321 North 1st St., Immokalee. Call 239-657-4449 for additional information.

14 SATURDAY 10:00 a.m. Bonita Springs National Art Festival. Saturday and Sunday. Located at Riverside Park, Old US 41 Rd., Bonita Springs. Check www.bonitaspringsrecreation.org/riverside.html for additional information.

10:00 a.m. Lovers Key Arts and Craft Show. Two day event. Located at Lovers Key State Park, 8700 Estero Blvd., Estero. Call 239-463-4588 for details.

10:00 a.m. Sensory Friendly Screening of Monster Trucks. Lights are up, sound is down, and you are totally free to move around. Located at Paragon Pavilion Theaters, 833 Vanderbilt Beach Rd., Naples. Call 239-596-0008 or check www. paragontheaters.com for additional information.

1:30 p.m. Pups ‘n’ Books. Stop by to read to a dog or just to pet one. All ages.

Located at Headquarters Library, 2385 Orange Blossom Dr., Naples. Call 239-5930870 or check public.collier-lib.org for additional information.

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15 SUNDAY 7:00 a.m. Naples Daily News Half Marathon. Minimum age for participants is 13 years of age on race day. Located at Cambier Park, 755 8th Ave. S., Naples.

Call 239-213-3058 or check www.naplesgov.com/index.aspx?NID=576 for details.

9:00 a.m. Antique and Classic Boat Show. Featuring over 50 antique and classic boats, this event is open to all guests. There will also be a selection of food, beverages and vendors. Located at The Marina at Edison Ford, 2360 West First St., Fort Myers. Call 239-919-2965 or check www.pureFL.com for additional information.

10:00 a.m. Drug Free Collier’s Clean to the CORE Car Show. Join Drug Free Collier and the CORE Society for classic, exotic, and muscle Cars. Located at Greater Marco Family YMCA, 101 Sand Hill St., Marco Island. Call 239-2856785 for details.

4:00 p.m. Geoff Gallante, Jazz Trumpet. A performance by one of the most celebrated young musicians today, 16-year-old Geoff Gallante. Located at Moorings Presbyterian Church, 791 Harbour Dr., Naples.

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16 MONDAY 10:00 a.m. Pure Florida Cruise for Kids Week. Supports Collier County’s Champions for Learning, an educational foundation that funds classroom grants for teachers and their students. Admission is $15 per adult, $15 per child, and free admission for teachers. Located at Tin City, 1200 Fifth Ave. S., Naples. Call 239262-4200 or check www.tin-city.com for additional information.

11:00 a.m. Dr Martin Luther King Jr Day Parade. The parade will line up on Broad Ave and proceed north on 3rd Street South, then right on 5th Ave South, and end on 8th Street South. Located at Fifth Avenue South, Naples. Call 239-692-8436 or check www.fifthavenuesouth.com for additional information.

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17 TUESDAY 12:00 p.m. Lunch & Learn Lecture. Learn about an environmental topic and enjoy lunch in our auditorium. Located at Rookery Bay Environmental Learning Center, 300 Tower Rd., Naples.

3:30 p.m. Winter Crafts. Make some winter themed crafts. One of them will be edible. Registration required. Ages 6-11 years. Located at Golden Gate Library, 2432 Lucerne Rd., Naples. Call 239-252-4542 or check public.collier-lib.org.

4:00 p.m. Ozobots. Have fun with these mini-robots while learning to code and creating a story to tell. Ages 7-11 years. Located at South Regional Library, 8065 Lely Cultural Pkwy., Naples. Call 239-252-7542 or check public.collier-lib.org.

6:00 p.m. Movies on the Lawn. Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone. Located at Mercato, 9128 Strada Pl., Naples. Call 239-594-9400 or check www.mercatoshops.com.

18 WEDNESDAY 5:00 p.m. Montessori Academy of Naples Open House. More information can be found on our website at www.naplesmontessori.org. Located at Montessori Academy of Naples, 2659 Professional Circle, Naples. Call 239-597-2255.

19 THURSDAY 10:00 a.m. Little Explorers. Explore nature and discover amazing animals through multi-sensory, interactive activities, stories, and animal-themed crafts. Ages 18 months to 5 years. Located at Conservancy of SW Florida, 1495 Smith Preserve Way, Naples. Call 239-262-0304 or check www.conservancy.org/summercamp for details.

3:30 p.m. Animals Alive: Up Close with Animals. Enjoy live animals and learn how the Kowiachobee Preserve takes care of exotic, endangered, and domestic animals. Ages 5 years and up. Registration required. Located at Marco Island Branch Library, 210 S. Heathwood Dr., Marco Island. Call 239-394-3272 or check public. collier-lib.org.

5:30 p.m. Pups ‘n’ Books. Stop by to read to a dog or just to pet one. All ages.

Registration is not required. Located at East Naples Library, 8787 Tamiami Trail East, Naples. Call 239-775-5592 or check public.collier-lib.org for additional information.

6:00 p.m. Third Thursday on Third Street South. Live music. Located at Third Street South, Naples. Call 239-434-6533 or check www.napleschamber.org.

7:00 p.m. PFLAG Support Group Meeting. The Naples chapter of Parents, Families, and Friends of Lesbians and Gays meets on the third Thursday of each month. Call 239-513-4568 for location.

20 FRIDAY 6:00 p.m. Beer Tasting and Live Music. This month sample tons of different beers, including select seasonal beers. Located at Whole Foods, 9101 Strada Pl., Naples.

Call 239-552-5100 or check www.wholefoodsmarket.com for details.

21 SATURDAY 8:00 a.m. Bark on the Ark. Pure Florida’s Fort Myers location will present a Bark on the Ark cruise. Bring your dog aboard for a sightseeing cruise along the Caloosahatchee River. Located at The Marina at Edison FoRd., 2360 West First St., Fort Myers. Call 239-919-2965 or check www.pureFL.com.

8:00 a.m. Birds of the Beach. Adam DiNuovo of Audubon Florida will discuss the life history of migrating and wintering shorebirds and the amazing journeys many of them make annually Located at Rookery Bay, 300 Tower Rd., Naples.

10:00 a.m. Democratic Women’s Club of Collier County. Join us to discuss issues important to all progressive Democrats through the eyes of the Democratic Women of Collier County and their supporters. Located at Walden Oaks, 6710 Lone Oak Blvd., Naples. Call 239-434-7754 for additional information.

10:00 a.m. Junior Ranger Program. A fun learning experience. Ages 6-12. Parental presence required. Located at Koreshan State Historic Site, 3800 Corkscrew Rd., Estero. Call 239-992-0311 or check www.floridastateparks.org for additional information.

10:00 a.m. Naples Art Fest. Saturday and Sunday. Located at Fleischmann Park, 1600 Fleischmann Dr., Naples. Call 239-213-3020 for additional information.

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11:00 a.m. Marco Island Pirate Day. A fun-filled afternoon with pirate-themes arts and crafts, face painting, and treasure hunts. Located at Marco Island Historical Museum, 180 South Heathwood Dr., Marco Island. Call 239-642-1440 or check colliermuseums.com for additional information.

2:30 p.m. The Cat in the Hat. One Bag Productions Improv Troupe presents the classic Dr. Seuss’ story. Ages 2-11 years. Located at Headquarters Library, 2385 Orange Blossom Dr., Naples. Call 239-593-0870 or check public.collier-lib.org for more information.

7:00 p.m. Big Cypress Night Sky and Astronomy Program. Visitors are encouraged to bring lawn chairs or blankets. Located at Big Cypress Swamp Welcome Center, 33000 Tamiami Trail E., Ochopee. Call 239-695-4758 for additional information.

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

Three Locations to Serve You. BONITA SPRINGS

9510 Bonita Beach Rd. Ste. 101

239.333.2990

CAPE CORAL

1508 S.E. 12th Terrace

239.322.5222

PORT CHARLOTTE

3872 Tamiami Trail, Unit D&E

941.391.8090

23 MONDAY 8:30 a.m. Painting in Colored Pencil. This class will make you a master at various colored pencil techniques. Located at Rookery Bay, 300 Tower Rd., Naples.

4:30 p.m. Gentle’men Against Domestic Violence Tailgate Event. Support the mission by attending the Men’s Tailgate Event. Located at Bay Colony Golf Club, 9740 Bent Grass Bend, Naples.

5:30 p.m. Commotion in the Ocean. Join us for a fishy fun evening with ocean crafts and activities that will engage your hands and your minds. Ages 4-10 years.

Registration required. Located at East Naples Library, 8787 Tamiami Trail East, Naples. Call 239-775-5592 or check public.collier-lib.org for additional information.

5:30 p.m. Coloring for Teens. Love coloring? Come spend an evening relaxing and coloring with your friends. Coloring pages and pencils will be provided. Refreshments will also be available. Ages 11-17 years. Located at Immokalee Branch Library, 417 North First St., Immokalee. Call 239-657-2882 or check public. collier-lib.org for more information.

24 TUESDAY 10:30 a.m. Snowflake Make and Take. Can we make it snow in Florida? Join us for a special craft day. Make a snowflake as unique as you are, then take it home.

All ages welcome. Registration is not required. Located at Naples Regional Library, 650 Central Ave., Naples. Call 239-262-6853 or check public.collier-lib.org for more information.

5:00 p.m. Sensory Night at C’MON. C’mon provides Sensory Nights for children on the autism spectrum and or with other sensory integration disorders. Sensory Nights have limited participation in order to minimize crowds, and registration is required. Located at Golisano Children’s Museum of Naples, 15080 Livingston Rd., Naples. Call 239-514-0084 or check www.cmon.org for additional information.

6:15 p.m. Discover Your World: China. It’s the Year of the Rooster. Experience Chinese culture through food samples, crafts, and demonstrations. Bring your camera to take your picture with the Chinese New Year dragon. Located at South County Regional Library, 21100 Three Oaks Pkwy., Estero. Call 239-479-4636 for additional information.

25 WEDNESDAY 3:30 p.m. Lego Club. Join the club and share ideas, be creative, make new friends and have fun! Lego® bricks will be provided. Ages 5-11 years. Registration is not required. Located at South Regional Library, 8065 Lely Cultural Pkwy., Naples. Call 239-252-7542 or check public.collier-lib.org for additional information.

5:00 p.m. Teen Book Crew. All Fall Down by Ally Carter. Located at Vanderbilt Beach Library, 788 Vanderbilt Beach Rd., Naples. Call 239-597-8444 or check public.collier-lib.org for additional information.

5:00 p.m. Montessori Academy of Naples Open House. More information can be found on our website at www.naplesmontessori.org. Located at Montessori Academy of Naples, 2659 Professional Circle, Naples. Call 239-597-2255.

6:00 p.m. Art After Hours. Enjoy free admission to The Baker Museum the last Wednesday of each month from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. View the galleries and learn from our docents. Located at Artis-Naples, 5833 Pelican Bay Blvd., Naples. Call 239597-1111 or check artisnaples.org for additional information.

7:00 p.m. Story Slam. Ten area story tellers recount a variety of narratives. Located at Alliance for the Arts, 10091 McGregor Blvd., Fort Myers. Call 239-939-2787 or check www.artinlee.org for additional information.

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Join us for an upcoming Open House Wednesday, January 11, 2017, 5-6 PM Wednesday, January 18, 2017, 5-6 PM Wednesday, January 25, 2017, 5-6 PM

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239-597-2255

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January Picks L C IN EE OUNTY

26 THURSDAY 5:00 p.m. Walk at the Promenade. Located at Promenade at Bonita Bay, 26795-27911 South Bay Dr., Bonita Springs. Call 800-799-0178 or check www. promenadeshops.com for additional information.

6:00 p.m. Pajama Story Time. Wear your pajamas and bring your favorite teddy bear. We’ll sing songs and tell bedtime stories, then finish with a craft. All ages.

Registration required. Located at Immokalee Branch Library, 417 North First St., Immokalee. Call 239-657-2882 or check public.collier-lib.org for additional information.

6:30 p.m. Chalk Art. Explore your creative side by practicing your chalk lettering and creating a chalk craft to take home. Ages 11-15 years. Registration required.

Located at Headquarters Library, 2385 Orange Blossom Dr., Naples. Call 239-5930870 or check public.collier-lib.org for additional information.

27 FRIDAY

Cinderella

Barbara B Mann Performing Arts Hall 13350 FSW Pkwy, Fort Myers January 3 - 8

This beloved Rodgers & Hammerstein musical with its jaw-dropping transformations, the pumpkin, the glass slipper, the masked ball and more!

Plus, some surprising new twists! 239-481-4849

Riverdale Kiwanis Medieval Faire Lakes Park, 7330 Gladiolus Dr, Fort Myers January 7 - 8 & January 14 - 15 • 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Featuring jousting, live chess match, live sword fighting, royal court, children’s games and rides, jugglers, magicians, minstrels, period food and medieval themed merchants.

239-369-6881

St. Andrew Festival

St. Andrew Catholic Parish/School 2628 Del Prado Blvd., Cape Coral January 12 – 15

Featuring over 20 Midway style rides, attractions, games, and activities that make up a fantastic weekend of carnival fun. 239-332-4488

Garden Bros Circus

Germain Arena, 11000 Everblades Pkwy., Estero January 27 - 28 www.germainarena.com 800-745-3000

Free SW Florida Twins Youth Clinics Minnesota Twins / Lee County Sports Complex 14110 Six Mile Cypress, Fort Myers January & February

All elementary and middle school aged boys and girls are welcome.

Stations will be set up to practice hitting, fielding, pitching and more! 239-823-6450

LEE COUNTY’S ORIGINAL FAMILY PUBLICATION FOR 26 YEARS!!

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4:30 p.m. Garden Brothers Circus. Garden Brothers Circus returns to Germain Arena for shows on Friday and Saturday. Located at Germain Arena, 11000 Everblades Pkwy., Estero. Call 239-335-0457 or check www.germainarena.com for additional information.

6:00 p.m. Basketball Music Night. Groove to upbeat music while playing basketball and having fun with your friends. Located at Golden Gate Community Center, 4701 Golden Gate Pkwy., Naples. Call 239-252-4180 or check colliergov. net for additional information.

6:00 p.m. Parents’ Night Out. Parents, enjoy the night out without your children.

Kids will enjoy a variety of games and activities in a safe environment. Dinner will be provided. Located at Vineyards Community Park, 6231 Arbor Rd., Naples. Call 239-363-9669 or check colliergov.net for additional information.

7:00 p.m. Peter Max - The Retrospective: 1960-2017. Peter Max’s exquisite paintings will be on exhibition and available for purchase. Located at Mercato, 9128 Strada Pl., Naples. Call 239-594-9400 or check www.mercatoshops.com for additional information.

7:00 p.m. Koreshan Ghost Walk. Historical figures come “alive” and tell their stories. Walking program lasts one hour. Limited tickets are available by calling 239992-0311. Located at Koreshan State Historic Site, 3800 Corkscrew Rd., Estero.

Check www.floridastateparks.org for additional information.

28 SATURDAY 7:00 a.m. Run for the Paws. The Humane Society Naples and Gulf Coast Runners invite all runners and their dogs to lace up their shoes for the 11th Annual Run for the Paws 5K walk/run fundraiser. Register at on the day of race or online www.runforthepaws.wordpress.com. Located at Naples Airport, 160 Aviation Dr. N., Naples.

8:00 a.m. Community Yard Sale. Find yard sale bargains with the convenience of having all the sales in one location. If you are interested in reserving a spot to sell used items, please call the respective park location to reserve a spot. Located at Max A. Hasse Jr. Community Park, 3390 Golden Gate Pkwy., Naples. Call 239348-7500 or check colliergov.net for additional information.

10:00 a.m. Chalk Art on 5th. Come and witness some amazing chalk art when professional and student artists take over Fifth Avenue South with fabulous chalk art drawings. Help judge for the best artwork. Enjoy live music, food, fun, and shopping on Fifth. Located at Fifth Avenue South, Naples. Call 239-692-8436 or check www.fifthavenuesouth.com for additional information.

11:00 a.m. Empty Bowls. Empty Bowls of Naples is an annual fundraiser for the Harry Chapin Food Bank of SW Florida. For a $20 donation, visitors on event day receive a one-of-a-kind handcrafted and painted bowl as a reminder of all the ‘empty bowls’ of those that go hungry. Located at Cambier Park, 755 8th Ave. S., Naples. Call 239-213-3058 or check www.naplesgov.com/index.aspx?NID=576 for additional information.

12:00 p.m. Swamp Buggy Races. This 67th season is sure to be history in the making. Class finals on Sunday. Located at Florida Sports Park, 8250 Collier Blvd., Naples. Call 239-774-2701 or check www.thefloridasportspark.com for additional information.

1:00 p.m. Monkey Sprouts Prenatal Workshop. This prenatal yoga workshop will include meditation and breath work, stretches, yoga flow, restorative and relaxation

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poses, and birth prep, and connecting with other members of the monkey sprouts community. Located at greenmonkey yoga Naples, 6200 Trail Blvd., Naples. Call 239-598-1938 or check www.greenmonkey.com.

2:00 p.m. Country Jam Florida. Naples largest festival, Country Jam Music.

Entertainment flows all through the day, so be ready with your lawn chairs and empty stomachs. Located at Collier County Fairgrounds, 751 39th Avenue NE, Naples. Call 239-455-1444 or check www.colliercountyfair.com/fairgrounds-info for additional information.

2:00 p.m. Chinese New Year. Come celebrate the Chinese New Year with crafts, food, and a special Chinese dance performed by Mrs. Veronica. Ages 4 years and older. Registration required. Located at Headquarters Library, 2385 Orange Blossom Dr., Naples. Call 239-593-0870 or check public.collier-lib.org for details.

2:00 p.m. LEGO Batman Build Event. Enjoy giveaways, make and play themed moments with LEGO® bricks and blocks, plus much more. Located at Barnes & Noble, 5377 Tamiami Trail North, Naples. Call 239-597-2040 or check bn.com for additional information.

2:00 p.m. Pins for a Purpose. All ages and abilities are welcome. This is a family FUN-raiser. Proceeds from this event will be used to support our mission of making sure all children with special needs can attend a summer camp. To register, visit www.samanthaspurpose.ticketbud.com/pinsforapurpose. Located at Woodside Lanes, 8525 Radio Rd., Naples.

3:00 p.m. Naples Philharmonic Youth Orchestra Chamber Concert. The Naples Philharmonic Youth Orchestra performs a variety of classical works in this performance from the NPYO Chamber Ensembles. Located at Artis-Naples, 5833 Pelican Bay Blvd., Naples. Call 239-597-1111 or check artisnaples.org for additional information.

3:00 p.m. Plane Crazy. Decorate, build, and fly your own balsa wood airplane.

While supplies last. All ages welcome. Registration is not required. Located at Naples Regional Library, 650 Central Ave., Naples. Call 239-262-6853 or check public. collier-lib.org for additional information.

NEW YEAR, RENEWED HOPE JOIN US SUNDAY AT 10:15 A.M. at the Church of OPEN minds, HELPING Hands, and LOVING Hearts.

Unitarian Universalist Congregation of Naples 6340 Napa Woods Way, Naples Close to 75 & Pine Ridge Road 239.784.4580

uunaples.org or UUA.org

Dance Arts by Maria

29 SUNDAY 10:00 a.m. SWFL Veg Fest. Features local restaurants with vegan food, live music and entertainment, fun and games for kids, healthy-living and eco-friendly exhibitors, information on local nonprofits, animal adoptions, and cooking demonstrations. Located at Centennial Park, 2000 West First St., Fort Myers. Check www.fortmyersmusicwalk.com for additional information.

12:00 p.m. Swamp Buggy Races. This 67th season is sure to be history in the making as the jeeps, air cooled, and four cylinders duke it out on Saturday in an effort to get to the class finals on Sunday. Located at Florida Sports Park, 8250 Collier Blvd., Naples. Call 239-774-2701 or check www.thefloridasportspark.com for more information.

4:00 p.m. St Olaf College Band. Enjoy this performance by the internationally acclaimed St. Olaf College Band. This Hyacinth Series Concert is presented to the public without charge. An offering will be received. Located at Moorings Presbyterian Church, 791 Harbour Dr., Naples.

30 MONDAY

Teaching love and appreciation for the art of dance.

Offering classes for ages 2-18 in Ballet, Tap, Jazz, Hip Hop, Contemporary, Lyrical, Pointe, Technique and Improv

NaplesDanceArts.com

239-513-6999

naplesdancearts@hotmail.com Find us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter @naplesdancearts

SWFL READERS CHOICE “BEST DANCE STUDIO” 2009, 2010, 2012, 2014

6:30 p.m. Commotion in the Ocean. Join us for a fishy fun evening with ocean crafts and activities that will engage your hands and your minds. Ages 4-10 years.

Registration required. Located at Headquarters Library, 2385 Orange Blossom Dr., Naples. Call 239-593-0870 or check public.collier-lib.org.

31 TUESDAY 4:00 p.m. Diary of a Wimpy Kid: Double Down Party. Come celebrate the latest edition to the “Wimpy Kid” series, Double Down by Jeff Kinney. We’ll play some “wimpy” games, create a particular “stinky” craft and enjoy an “old school” treat. Ages 6-11 years. Registration required. Located at Vanderbilt Beach Library, 788 Vanderbilt Beach Rd., Naples. Call 239-597-8444 or check public.collier-lib. org for additional information. .5:30 p.m.The Shy Wolf. Staff and a four-legged ambassador will be here from the Shy Wolf Sanctuary to give us more information about these fascinating creatures.

Ages 6-11 years. Registration required. Located at Estates Branch Library, 1266 Golden Gate Blvd. W., Naples. Call 239-455-8088 or check public.collier-lib.org for additional information.

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HEALTH & WELLNESS By Leigh Tahirovic

Families on the Run

L

Physical, Mental Health Improve When Parents Encourage Kids to Pound the Payment

ive by example, especially families, such as modeling positive when it comes to leading physical activity. Another tip from an active lifestyle. For one HHS was to tailor the activity to a Marco Island couple, Bob and child’s developmental stage. Younger Patty Poling, that example is runchildren like to alternate between ning. Both love running and it has short bursts of activity and rest, like become a significant part of their sprinting. Adolescents can run longer children’s lives because of it. and farther.

They are a running family.

That fits into the Poling apRunning is something Patty proach. Nine-year-old Maggie did long before she married Bob doesn’t run the same distance as her some 19 years ago. She started run17-year-old sister, Rosie. Maggie ning around age 10 and took part clocks about three miles with Mom in competitions in high school and and Dad on a run. Ellie will hit as an undergraduate. Together, between four and five miles, and the the two physicians, with practices two high schoolers, Rosie and Mickon Marco Island, would take long ey, will average about eight miles. runs during their residency; it bePatty and Bob like three- to five-mile came a ritual, something akin to runs, and sometimes on the weekend a date, Patty recalled. Nowadays, they will go farther. “Some days we the family – including Rosie, 17; are really into (running) and slack off Mickey, 15; Ellie, 13; and Maggie, on others,” said Patty. But the family 9 – regularly takes part in local 5K finds encouragement among themraces and are all members of Gulf selves. “We get started and convince Coast Runners. each other to go longer.”

But becoming a running The Poling Family kids (L-R, back): Ellie, Mickey, and Rosie, In Southwest Florida, running family didn’t happen overnight. and in front, Maggie, after the 2015 Marco Invitational, a can be a 365-day-a-year sport. BeWhen the kids were young and cross country meet that includes high school, middle school tween the sunshine and flat terrain, still riding in a stroller, Patty and and elementary races. it is a runner’s paradise. Even dediBob would take off for a run pushing them, Health and Human Services (HHS) sugcated athletes opt for running in Naples. and once the kids could ride a bike, they gests kids participate in vigorous-intensity The Naples Daily News Half Marathon, followed their parents. Then Rosie hit sixth physical activity and bone-strengthening held every January (this year, on Saturday, grade and joined the Marco Island Charter activity at least three days a week. A reJanuary 17), is a favorite race among runMiddle School cross country team. That’s port published in August 2009 states that ners because of the flat, fast course. It was when things took off. Rosie was a natural caregivers play a vital role in achieving that voted the No. 1 half marathon in 2015. runner, and suddenly, one by one, the recommendation. It is the main way youth But that’s one race you won’t see families kids wanted to race a 5K. “It was always a learn the importance of physical activity with young children racing; no one under choice. We never forced them to run… It and are taught to balance non-active time 13 can register. It’s just too long of a race was our normal,” said Patty, of racing as a periods like watching television with being for younger kids, said Gulf Coast Runners family. “It’s a great experience to run a 5K physically active.

(GCR) President Mitch Norgart. with your kids.”

“It is never too early for a family to Instead, Norgart suggested kids join the Running is an easy way to meet the make changes that will help a child keep GCR Youth Team, where 6- to 14-year-olds recommended 60 minutes of activity a day, or achieve a healthy weight,” said Sandra learn the fundamentals of running. “There as prescribed by the American Academy Hassink, MD, president of AAP and cois such a sense of accomplishment gained of Pediatrics (AAP). It also fits into two author of the clinical report, “The Role of from running,” said Norgart. “It’s a great categories of exercise: aerobic and bonethe Pediatrician in Primary Prevention of way to get a kid to focus. There are not as strengthening. The U.S. Department of Obesity.” She offered practical steps for many outlets for physical activity nowadays.”

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Participants at a Girls on the Run 5K. Left: Madison Tracy, left, and her running buddy Anais Bimonte. Middle: Coach Jennifer Irwin, left, and Leann Nardi. Right: Mother/daughter duo Adriana Flores, left, and Camilla Padilla.

GCR has about 1,200 members and approximately one-third are family memberships. Once a month from April to October, the group hosts free family runs at a county park. There is a twoor three-mile run and immediately afterward participants meet up for pizza and drinks. It is chance for families to socialize with other active, healthy families, said Norgart. Patty agrees, and often encourages her children to bring friend along for a run. “Make it social and it’s more fun.”

Maybe your daughter isn’t a natural athlete: Try Girls on the Run (GOTR), a national organization that helps girls from third to eighth grade complete a 5K after 10 weeks. Christine McConnelee, executive director for the Collier County program, believes GOTR is an effective way to teach girls how to be active and healthy. “It’s a place to set goals and achieve them,” she said of the program. “It’s a time when they can develop a love for running.

“I don’t even consider myself a runner,” continued Christine, who runs regularly with her husband Scott and two children Olivia, 9, and Liam, 6. Their kids are just getting into running and sug-

gests that parents get active with their children from a young age.

“Get out and do it together.” But don’t expect too much at first.

Instead set small realistic goals, one for the day and another for the week. “Strike a balance with kids. It’s not about a competition, but about doing your individual best,” she said.

Sometimes that individual best isn’t the best you’ve done previously, or the best in the family. Patty has watched her two older children, Rosie and Mickey, get faster and faster and go farther and farther. Both are state-level competitors in cross country for Lely High School. “The hardest part is seeing the kids get faster than the parents. They’re getting faster and I’m getting slower,” Patty said laughing. “We call it ‘personal records,’ an accomplishment for you.”

For families just starting out, try taking a walk after dinner or doing housework or yard work together. Simply by being active whenever possible, families may see a reduction in anxiety and depression and promote a positive mental health. Doing so will reduce the chances of being obese and lower risk factors for Type 2 diabetes and heart disease.

Local Programs for Families and Kids Girls on the Run of Collier County Girls on the Run is a 10-week program for girls in grades 3-8 in Collier County. Its mission is to enhance the emotional, spiritual, physical, social, and mental aspects of young girls, and help them build confidence and to recognize their inner strength. The program is offered twice a year, in the spring and fall, and cumulates with a 5K non-competitive fun run. There is also a community service project incorporated in the program. Fourteen site schools are set up for the spring session. Registration runs January 9-25, and the session begins Jan. 30. If your school is not a site school, contact Girls on the Run to establish one. Visit gotrcc.org.

Gulf Coast Runners Youth Team Kids learn fundamentals when they take part in the Gulf Coast Runners Youth Team. Led by USATF-certified coaches, kids from age 6 to 14 train three times a week year-round and learn skills like efficient use of their arms and legs and how to hold their head properly when running cross country, plus track and field basics like how to use starting blocks, pass a baton for relay participation, and proper form for the long jump. Having fun is another important aspect emphasized by the coaches. Kids of all levels can take part and are shown ways to enhance their natural running form. Children under 10 train for shorter distances and for sprinting, and older kids can compete in meets at the local and state level. Visit gcryouthteam.org.

Naples Area Junior Triathletes Every summer, the Naples Area Triathletes (NAT) hosts a junior triathlon for kids age 5 to 13. The non-competitive event introduces kids to the sport and is a great way for kids to gain experience with the basics of the race. They learn how to transition, what they need for each segment, and how the race staging area is organized at separate clinics held before the race. NAT is developing a junior program for younger triathletes. Currently, the group has some younger members who train together with a NAT coach. Visit naplestriathletes.com.

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HEALTH & WELLNESS By Leigh Ann Newman

Who Do You Workout For? W hy do we work out? It’s an easy answer for most of us — to be healthy, lose weight, gain strength, reach fitness goals. But sometimes we want, and need, a bigger reason.

That’s the idea behind I Run 4 Michael, a nonprofit organization inspired by a meme on Facebook in 2013. Tim Boyle started the group with 10 runners and 10 buddies, and it has grown to more than 30,000 participants, and four branches. The I Run 4 Michael (IR4) branch matches runners and other athletes with children (and adults) who physically can’t run.

Maribeth Richards of Estero discovered IR4 when a member of a Facebook group for parents of kids with spina bifida posted about her son’s “runner”. Richards’ son Bennett, now 2, was born with spina bifida, which left him paralyzed from the waist down. She visited the site when Bennett was 6 months old and learned that IR4

pairs children (and a number of adults) with a range of physical and cognitive disabilities with adults willing to run for a buddy.

Bennett was matched quickly with Rachel Ruth, who lives in Marshall, Wisconsin. “Rachel got paired with Bennett the same week she found out she was pregnant,” Richards said. She checks in with Bennett at least once a week. The “runners” often stay in touch with their buddies via Facebook.

“The posts are non-stop,” Richards said.

“You can’t even keep up with it. People post about buddy’s birthdays, if they are running a race, if they need prayers, etc.”

She noted that while buddies typically are matched quickly, getting paired as a runner typically takes up to six months.

Richards decided to become a running buddy herself, even though “I would never classify myself as a runner. I don’t enjoy running. I’d rather go to the gym, or ride a bike, or take a dance class,” she said. So she was pleased to discover that IR4’s definition

Maribeth Richards, left, after completing the Nashville Half Marathon in 2015, during which she wore a button in honor of her I Run 4 buddy, Cara. On the right, Cara is wearing several medals from Richards, including one from Nashville.

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of “run” included all physical activity. “I like that you don’t necessarily have to run,” Richards said. “You just have to move for someone. You could do a zumba class, you could walk around the block. There aren’t any rules.”

But after Richards was matched with her buddy, Cara, who is 6 years old and lives in Oregon, she bit the bullet and completed two half marathons, along with several shorter races. Cara is nonverbal and unable to walk due to pyruvate dehydrogenase complex deficiency, and Richards felt the need to cover miles in her name.

“When I got matched with Cara, I said that I’m not going to run a marathon every weekend. But I wanted to do something, and dedicate miles to her. A half marathon was on my bucket list, but I’m not really a runner and I’m slow. Cara was a really good motivation. She can’t walk, so I thought, so if I could even walk for 13 miles, it would mean something,” Richards said.

She had completed some 5Ks in the past, but explained that “Running has never been my thing. I like doing races because there are other people, but when I’m running by myself, it’s like ‘Why am I doing this?’.”

The “why” became Cara. “On the days I don’t want to do anything and have a million excuses, Cara motivates me,” she said.

Richards and Cara have not yet met in person, but they maintain a close connection. Richards sends Cara medals from her races and noted that the race organizers for both of her half marathons gave her an extra medal for that purpose. She also sends birthday and Christmas presents (Cara loves books and puzzles), and in return receives videos of Cara’s reaction when packages arrive.

Powering through Like Richards, Rayna Overmyer of Bonita Springs has found motivation and more as a runner for her buddy, Logan.

“My buddy’s family and I talk quite a bit, either on Facebook or text. I feel I’ve gained another family member,” she added.

NEAPOLITANfamily • January 2017

12/19/16 10:00 AM

“We talk not just about running, but life in general and they will all hold a large piece of my heart forever.”

For Overmyer, who learned of the program through Richards, running for her buddy has helped her push through difficult workouts and races. “I am way more motivated to workout now that I’m dedicating my runs for someone,” she said. “When I’m struggling with training or during a race, I think about the struggles that Logan has trying to communicate and it powers me through. I get angry that children have to deal with illnesses/diseases/disabilities and I tell myself that my pain is only temporary and if these children, such as Logan, have to go through these types of things, the least I can do is push myself. That’s what gets me through.”

It’s been a similar experience for Samantha Senkarik of Naples. “It definitely helps me with my motivation, especially in my longer training runs when I want to dig deep. I think about my running buddy, Tatum. Since I have been running buddies with him I have completed a half marathon and about to do my next half and January,” she said.

“This program is a wonderful way to

Left, Bennett Richards with his “unofficial” (though no less dedicated) runner and godmother, Crystal Oswald, after the Nashville Half Marathon. On the right is Rachel Ruth of Marshall, Wisconsin, Bennett’s runner through I Run 4. She and Bennett were paired when he was 6 months old.

support runners and their buddies. I find inspiration in seeing all the posts from the runners as well as how our buddies are overcoming obstacles that they face in their lives. I know if they can endure and overcome many of their challenges, I can as well. The last mile of the race doesn’t seem

so hard in retrospect,” Senkarik added.

“I feel [a program like this] brings society together,” Overmyer concluded. “Our world has so much negativity and this brings a huge light and a lot of love when we need it the most.”

For details, visit whoirun4.com.

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January 2017.indd 39

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TECHNOLOGY By Anna Snyder

Garfield: A New Partner in Cyber Safety

C

hildren are navigating the internet at increasingly younger ages. For parents, it’s difficult to both stay current with the rapidly changing online world, and find a way to interest young children in internet safety.

To help parents with these tasks, the Center for Cyber Safety and Education (CCSE), a non-profit organization headquartered in Clearwater, Florida, has teamed up with Jim Davis, the creator of the comic Garfield – the beloved cat who enjoys eating lasagna and taking naps. Together, CCSE and Davis have created a comprehensive program, complete with full-length comic books and other resources, to help children navigate the world of the internet, safely.

Through the Garfield comics, available for download at safeandsecureonline.org, educators and parents will be able to teach children to navigate internet safety issues. Garfield interacts with others to address common problems children encounter when they begin to utilize web-based resources independently of their parents.

The Center is a relatively new organization – started five years ago – dedicated to providing its members with training on internet security issues, according to Pat Craven, director of CCSE. The NY • PA

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nline Friends riends are re not online The Same Same as as REAL The 40

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Friends!

organization wanted to expand its resources to address security issues related to children. “In order to expand our mission,” Craven explained, “we were searching for a timeless tool that would be useful for many years to come, one that would appeal to children all over the world.”

CCSE identified the possibility of working with Jim Davis to create resources centered on the Garfield character and his friends.

“Garfield is already known by kids, parents, grandparents, and educators across the globe – it is recognizable. The comics are attention getting and easy to translate into many languages. His character has been around for many years, and the content’s themes and characters are timeless,” Craven said.

“I greatly appreciate the work the Center for Cyber Safety and Education does,” said Davis. “When we took our analog cat into the digital age, we were keenly aware that kids would be coming to garfield.com and to our free educational site, professorgarfield. org. We wanted to be sure that Garfield was entertaining in a safe and secure environment. Parents have learned to trust Garfield and we wanted to do everything we could to honor that trust.”

The Center for Cyber Safety and Education plans to work with Davis to create 12 full-length digital comic books, which will be available free of charge on the Center’s website (one is already published and available). New comics will be released every three or four months. Supplemental materials, including activity books and leaders’ kits, will be available in a variety of formats to educators, parents, local non-profit groups, and any other organization that may want to instruct children on cyber safety issues. “As time passes and new issues arise in the field of cyber security, count on Garfield to be providing fresh content addressing the new challenges,” Davis said. “The threats change day-to-day— it’s hard to keep up. Our website will be a resource to make it easier to be informed about cyber safety.”

Future topics to be covered include: interactions with strangers online; posting personal data online, such as photos with addresses and locations; social media usage; online gaming; cyberbullying; identity theft; and computer protection.

The first comic centers on relationships with online friends.

“Our first comic book includes important messages about the distinction between ‘friends’ and ‘online friends.’ Statistics say 40% of elementary age kids have chatted with a stranger online – that’s a concern we wanted to address,” said Davis.

Davis has introduced a new character for the comic books, Dr. Cybrina, a cyber safety instructor. A woman was intentionally selected for this character, an expert in the online security arena.

“We wanted to encourage girls to pursue STEM careers (careers in science, technology, engineering, mathematics). Positions focused on network and online security are available in increasing demand.

We want to continue to encourage children to work toward careers in these fields,” Craven explained.

For more information and to download the first Garfield cyber safety comic book, visit safeandsecureonline.org.

NEAPOLITANfamily • January 2017

12/19/16 10:02 AM

Join the fun, sign up for the Spring Season!

Girls on the Run is a positive youth development program for girls in grades 3-8. The 10-week, twice a week curriculum includes finding what makes them unique, setting goals, making intentional choices, how to deal with bullies and peer pressure, learning assertiveness and active listening skills and giving back to the community. Throughout the season girls learn these important life skills with training for a celebratory 5K race at the end of the season.

Program Dates: 2x/week, January 30th – April 29th Online registration open 1/9 - 1/25 • Registration Fee $150 – Scholarships Available CURRENT FALL SITES: Avalon Elem: T/TH 3-4:30 ** • Boys & Girls Club: M/W 3:45-5:15 Corkscrew Elem: T/TH 3-4:30 • Lake Park Elem: Days: T/Th 3-4:30 Laurel Oak Elem: T/TH 3-4:30 ** • Osceola Elem: T/TH 3-4:30 Palmetto Elem: T/TH 3-4:30 • Parkside Elem: M/T 3-4:30 Pelican Marsh Elem: M/W 3-4:30 ** • Sea Gate Elem: T/TH 3-4:30 ** Shadowlawn Elem: M/TH 3-4:30 • Vineyards Elem. Days: M/W 3-4:30 ** Tommie Barfield Elem: T/TH, 3-4:30 ** Community School of Naples: M/W 3:15-4:45 **Coaches still needed for some sites. Coaches do not need to be runners, just positive mentors. Volunteer hours available for high school students.

Please contact christine.mcconnelee@girlsontherun.org.

New this season: Our Middle School Heart & Sole Program is BACK! For more information vi

For more information visit: www.GOTRCC.org or call (239) 777-3720

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TRAVEL

By Karen T. Bartlett

Destination: Southwest Florida

A

If you haven’t gone glamping in the Everglades or examined wildlife poop up close, 2017 is the year for new adventures!

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nother year has slipped by, and I STILL haven’t been on the Imperial River moonlight bat paddle.

Nor have I spent the night in a Seminolestyle chickee on stilts at the edge of the Big Cypress National Preserve, where panthers and bears – and maybe the elusive Skunk Ape – lurk about. In case there are a few things you haven’t yet done with the kids, here’s a bucket list in handy (though not entirely rational) ABC order. Do let me know when you’ve checked them all off! Websites are included when the names are not self-explanatory.

nderwater Cows. Sea cows, that is!

Tons of them (literally!) gather in the warm water at Manatee Park near the Florida Power & Light power plant in Fort Myers.

Paddle alongside them on your own, take a guided tour, or see them up close from shore. Check out calusabayoutfitters.com.

All uncredited photos courtesy of Mostly Kids’ Guides.

A

dopt a Creature. Help naturalists take care of injured and orphaned wildlife by adopting a manatee (savethemanatee.org), a sea turtle nest (Conservancy of Southwest Florida), or even that pretty sand dune nesting bird, the snowy plover (Sanibel- Captiva Conservation Foundation).

D

“Sway,” Courtesy of the Fort Myers Miracle

B

Take a moonlight at Paddle. Seriously. They say it’s a bit stinky, a bit spooky ,and totally fun! See CGTkayaks.com.

B

icycle the Gordon River Greenway.

This 1.5-mile trail is deep in nature, yet right in the heart of Naples. The smooth, wide pathways make it the perfect place to bike with kids.

Discover the mysterious omes.

They’re sinking, sinking, sinking into the sea around Cape Romano. Take a boat ride to see them before they’re gone!

D

Be a olphin Explorer. Get your official researcher patch after your amazing adventure aboard the Dolphin Explorer. If

C

Photograph by Frank Brinker

B

Paddle the Great Calusa lueway.

The long, long trail winds in and out of rivers, creeks, and along the coast. Paddle for an hour or practically forever.

Meet a alusa Indian. Well, some very life-like ones. The shells from their discarded seafood dinners over the centuries built huge mounds, and sometimes whole islands (like Marco!). Visit mounds at Randell Research Center on Pine Island.

See artifacts and lifelike village scenes at the Marco Island Historical Museum.

B

Watch Major League aseball at February and March spring training games. Check the Minnesota Twins and Boston Red Sox schedules at floridagrapefruitleague.com. Our home team, the Fort Myers Miracle, plays all summer.

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Meet a herd

By John Paenoof grass-munching NEAPOLITANfamily • January 2017

12/19/16 10:02 AM

you’re the first to discover a new dolphin in the pod, you get to name it. Dolphinstudy.com.

Watch Thomas the Tank and other miniature Lionel trains chug around the model city at the aples Train Museum.

Then hop aboard the mini-train, pulled by a diesel locomotive. For dates and time, check naplestrainmuseum.org.

N

F

Taste stuff at a arm Market. There’s more than you expect for kids at our growing community of farm markets. There are yummy free things to taste and fascinating produce like purple cauliflower to take home.

F

Go to a estival. There’s at least one happening every month of the year. Kids love the Medieval Faire in Lakes Park the first two weekends of January.

G

Go lamping in the Everglades.

Your guide sets up, packs up, and cooks your meals; you and the kids have all the fun. Two popular outfitters are Everglades Area Tours and Everglades Adventure Tours.

H

Ride a orse. M&H Stables (Naples) has slow, easy trail rides on the edge of the Picayune Strand State Forest. The Saddlewood Horse Club (Cape Coral) hosts a monthly Horse Interaction Day, when kids ride, feed, and even paint horses and ponies. capehorses.com.

O

Fall in love with a Burrowing wl.

Can any creature be more adorable? They nest in the ground all around Cape Coral and peek out at visitors. There’s even a Burrowing Owl Festival in February. Get details at ccfriendsofwildlife.org.

J

Become a unior Ranger. Sign up for free at any state or national park (including refuges and preserves). Membership includes special activities and programs.

K

nock One Out of the Park in the batting cages at Mike Greenwell’s Bat-ABall Family Fun Park in Cape Coral.

L

Watch a eopard claw into its birthday present. It’s true – the creatures at the Naples Zoo get presents on their birthdays, as well as treats wrapped like colorful eggs in the spring and holiday boxes in December.

Photograph by Karen DiNoto

P

Examine some Wildlife oop. For real! “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge’s scat trail features special poop boxes topped with very realistic looking bird or animal scat. Open the box to reveal what creature did the deed.

M

I

nvent Something Awesome! Register the kids for a summer or school break Young Inventor’s Camp at the Edison & Ford Winter Estates, or bring them on a Saturday morning for the super-cool interactive Young Inventor’s Tour.

NEAPOLITANfamily • January 2017

January 2017.indd 43

ini Golf. Naples and Play weird Marco courses tend to be elegant, while those from Bonita Springs to Fort Myers get pretty crazy. Check out the knights and castles at Castle Golf, the pirate ship and baby alligators at Smuggler’s Cove, or the wild animals at Golf Safari, Congo River, and Jungle Golf.

M

See awesome displays of eteors, Asteroids, and Galaxies at the Calusa Nature Center Planetarium.

continued on following page neafamily.com

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Rehabilitation of Wildlife (CROW). See live feeds from inside the animal hospital and read the doctors’ notes. Future veterinarians ages 13 and up can sign up to visit the hospital and rehab areas.

Q

ueen: So many festivals, Meet a so many queens! Some favorites are the Shrimp Festival Queen (Fort Myers Beach in March) the Edison Pageant of Light Queen (Fort Myers parade in February), the Mango Queen (Cape Coral in July), and the Swamp Buggy Queen (Naples parade in November).

W

Kayak through the ild and Mysterious Mangrove Tunnels of the Ten Thousand Islands or the Matlacha Pass Aquatic Preserve. Check out iveyhouse. com in Everglades City or gulfcoastkayak. com on Pine Island.

R

Take Fido and over to the beach.

Our two beautiful dog beaches are Keewaydin Island (accessible by boat) and Dog Beach, right near Lovers Key. Bring their drinking water!

X

S

coop Up a live baby octopus, tiny horseshoe crab, and who knows what else on a naturalist-guided walk in the shallows of Bunche Beach (near Fort Myers Beach).

Or check out the awesome summer and school holiday nature camps at the Conservancy of Southwest Florida in Naples, Sanibel Sea School, or the Ostego Bay Marine Science Center on Fort Myers Beach.

island – that was once part of the mainland.

You can wade or kayak across a narrow lagoon from Marco Island’s Tigertail Beach Park to Sand Dollar Spit for swimming and shelling. Back at the park, enjoy the playground, shady picnic tables and grills, water sports rentals, and butterfly garden.

T

Climb into a ree House. A huge banyan tree is the centerpiece of the Children’s Garden at Naples Botanical Garden.

E cite your imagination at Children’s Museum of Naples (C’mon) and the Imaginarium (Fort Myers), our region’s two outstanding hands-on children’s’ museums. Meet a Madagascar hissing cockroach, make your own lightning bolt, be a weather forecaster in a live TV studio, or climb a rock wall, just for starters.

Y

Z

Wh not catch some s in a Seminole Style Chickee at the edge of the Big Cypress National Preserve? Book your overnight at Everglades Adventure Tours.

U

-pick your own strawberries and sunflowers seasonally at Farmer Mike’s in Bonita Springs.

V

Be a eterinarian in an interactive game at Sanibel Island’s Clinic for the

S

Learn to ail with the Gulf Coast Sailing Club on Lake Avalon (Sugden Community Park, Naples). Then maybe graduate to bigger sailboats with the family programs at Steve and Doris Colgate’s Offshore Sailing School (Fort Myers Beach).

S

Have fun with elfies. Opportunities are everywhere! Among my favorites is in front of The Ship’s Store at Crayton Cove.

S

Hang out with the eminoles. AhTah-Thi-Ki Seminole Indian Museum is a wonderful interactive cultural experience, well worth the drive.

S

Check out a pit. A sand spit, that is!

It’s a long skinny stretch of land – almost an 44

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KAREN T. BARTLETT is Travel Editor of Neapolitan Family. She is the author of 11 destination travel books, and publisher of the award-winning book, A (mostly) Kids’ Guide to Naples, Marco Island & The Everglades.

NEAPOLITANfamily • January 2017

12/19/16 10:05 AM

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Don’t miss Neapolitan Family Travel Editor Karen Bartlett’s newest book, available at Barnes & Noble in Naples & Fort Myers, Sunshine Booksellers on Marco Island; and Bailey’s General Store, MacIntosh Books & Paper, and Gene’s Books on Sanibel Island.

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