Neapolitan Family July 2022 Digital Issue

JULY 2022

COMPLIMENTARY

We’re JUMPING for Joy Over

BOOKS!

Meet the School Board Candidates Beat the Heat With a Sweet Treat Where to Cool Off

NEAPOLITANfamily • July 2022

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NEAPOLITANfamily • July 2022

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July 2022

TABLE OF CONTENTS

in every issue . . .

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FROM THE PUBLISHER

8

COLLIER COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOLS UPDATE

9

YOUR COMMUNITY

20

24 12

School Board Election. Meet the candidates vying for three seats in the August primary election, and learn how they hope to shape your child’s education.

18

From Budget to Bougie.

How to dip into a resort-style stay-cation day in SWFL.

by Andrea Stetson

24

Best Book Ever! Our youngest readers tell us about their favorite books.

26

We All Scream for Ice Cream.

Beat the heat with a sweet treat at one of these cool spots.

EVENT CALENDAR

on the cover…

Adeline Lammert, 8, is a rising third grader at Veterans Memorial Elementary in Naples. She is the daughter of Cynthia and Greg Lammert. Her brother, Wyatt, will be joining her at VME this fall as a kindergartner. Adeline is a golf enthusiast and also enjoys swimming, crafting, and reading the Harry Potter series. She loves fishing with her family at Barefoot Beach and going on vacation.

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28 Book Clubs are Good for the Mind and Soul. Discover how to find or start a book club to fit your lifestyle.

by Anna Snyder

Cover photo by Emily Brockelsby www.studioembr.com 239-331-0529

ENROLLING NOW Monday through Thursday 9 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.

Offering 1 or 2 day options Ages 2– 4 year olds (by August 1st)

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NEAPOLITANfamily • July 2022

DANCE changes everything lifelong lessons and friendships healthy minds and bodies self-confidence and happiness

New Classes start August 1st!

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239.566.3535

When I was elected nearly 4 years ago, I could not have imagined I would be serving during a global pandemic, but I am so proud of When I was nearly 4 years ago, I could notwe have imagined our staff andelected students for meeting the challenges faced head-on.

IDuring wouldthat be serving during a global pandemic, but I am so proud of time we:nearly 4 years ago, I could not have imagined When I was Whenour I was elected nearly 4 for years ago, I could not have we imagined staff andelected students meeting the challenges faced head-on.

I would be serving during a global pandemic, butbut I am soso proud I would be serving during a global pandemic, I am proudofof During that time we: created multiple learning options for our students including in-person, our staff and students for meeting the challenges we faced head-on. our staff and students for meeting the challenges we faced head-on. synchronous online, E-Collier Academy When I waswe: electedand nearly 4 years ago, I could not have imagined During that time DuringImultiple that time we:nearly created learning options forago, our students including in-person, When was elected years I could not have imagined I would be serving during a4global but I am so proud of '""'J Created preserved the student experience bypandemic, ensuring access to clubs, sports, multiple learning options for our students, including in-person, synchronous synchronous online, and E-Collier Academy When I E-Collier was elected nearly 4global years pandemic, ago, I couldbut notIwe have imagined online, and Academy.

I would be serving during a am so proud of band, theater, and orchestra our staff and students for meeting the challenges faced head-on. created multiple learning options for our students including in-person, '""'J Preserved preserved the student experience by ensuring access to clubs, sports, I would be serving during a global pandemic, but I am so proud of the student experience by ensuring access to clubs, sports, band, theater, our staff and students meeting the challenges wetofaced head-on.

During that time we: synchronous online, and E-Collier Academy '""'J and distributed thousands offor computers and wifi hotspots our students orchestra. band, theater, and orchestra our staff andas students for meeting the challenges we faced head-on.

During time we: and families, well as over 14 million meals When I that was nearly years ago, I could not have imagined '""'J Distributed preserved theelected student experience byhotspots ensuring access to clubs, sports, thousands of computers and Wi-Fi to our students and families, created multiple learning options for our students including in-person, During time we: '""'J asdistributed of computers and wifi hotspots toso our students When I that was elected nearly years pandemic, ago, I could notI am have imagined Iwell would be1thousands serving during a4global but proud of as over million meals.

band, theater, and orchestra As a result, we were ableE-Collier to: synchronous online, and Academy created multiple learning options for our students including in-person, and families, as well as over 1 million meals As'""'Ja result, we were able to: I would be serving during a global pandemic, but Iwe amfaced so proud of our staff and students for meeting the high challenges head-on. increase our graduation rate to a record 92.7% synchronous online, and E-Collier Academy created multiple learning options for our students including in-person, '""'J distributed thousands of computers and wifi hotspots toclubs, our students When I was elected nearly 4 years ago, I could not have imagined '""'J Increase preserved the student experience by92.7%. ensuring access to sports, our graduation rateable to a record high As a result, we were to: our staff and students for meeting the challenges we faced head-on.

During that time we: synchronous online, and E-Collier Academy and families, as well as million mealsfor the first time ever '"":) outperform the state inover all 211global tested areas band, theater, and orchestra I would be serving during but so proud of '""'J Outperform preserved the student bypandemic, ensuring access to clubs, sports, the state in all tested areas for the first ever.I am increase our graduation ratea to a record hightime 92.7% During that time we:21experience band, theater, and orchestra '""'J preserved the experience byand ensuring access to clubs, sports, As a result, westudent were able to: our staff and students for meeting the challenges we faced head-on. our A-rated district status. created multiple learning options for our students including in-person, '""'J Maintain distributed thousands computers wifi to ourever students '"":) outperform the state inofall 21 tested areas forhotspots the first time '""'J band, theater, and orchestra increase our graduation rate to a record high 92.7% synchronous online, and E-Collier Academy During that time we: and families, as well as over 1COLLIER million meals multiple learning options for our students including '""'J created distributed thousands of computers and wifi hotspots to ourin-person, students FROM A FINANCIAL STANDPOINT, COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOLS IS: synchronous online, and E-Collier Academy and families, as well as over 1 million meals '""'J distributed thousands of computers and wifi hotspots to our students '"":) outperform the state in all 21 tested areas for the first time ever '""'J On preserved experience by ensuring access to clubs, sports, track to bethe debt-free byable 2026.

As a result, westudent were to: created multiple learning options for our students including in-person, and families, asand well as over 1tomillion meals band, theater, orchestra increase our graduation rate a record high 92.7% Paying cash for the new high school, which will save taxpayers an estimated '""'J preserved the student experience by ensuring access to clubs, sports, As a result, we were able to: "') Paying cash foronline, the new high school which will save taxpayers an estimated synchronous and E-Collier Academy $41 million dollars in interest payments. '""'J band, theater, and orchestra increase our graduation rate to a record high 92.7% $41 million dollars in interest payments As a result, we were able to: '""'J outperform distributed thousands computers wifi ourever students '"":) the state inofall 21 tested and areas forhotspots the first to time '""'J preserved the student experience by ensuring access sports, The only cash district in the new state high to pass atoTAX NEUTRAL referendum ...to weclubs, didn’t ask increase our graduation rate a record high 92.7% "') Paying for the school which will save taxpayers an... estimated "') The only district in the state to pass a TAX NATURAL referendum we didn't and families, as well as over 1 million meals '""'J for distributed thousands ofall computers and wifi hotspots to ourever students '"":) outperform the state in 21 testedto areas for thefrom firstthe time more money; weand simply asked permission move money capital side band, theater, orchestra $41 million dollars in interest payments ask for more money, we permission to move money from the and as were well as over million mealsfor the '"":) of outperform the state insimply allside 211asked tested areas first time ever thea families, budget towe the operational of the budget.

As result, able "') Paying cash forthe the newstate high school which will save an... estimated capital side of budget to to: the operational side of taxpayers the budget "') The only district in the to pass a TAX NATURAL referendum we didn't '""'J distributed thousands of computers and wifi hotspots to our students '""'J to increase graduation rate to a record high I92.7% $41 million dollars inof interest payments It has been the honor of my lifetime serve theour students Collier County, and I hope can countmoney on yourfrom votethe As a result, we were able to: ask for more money, we simply asked permission to move and families, as well as over 1 million meals on August 23 to continue the forward progress we have made. '""'J increase our graduation rate to a record high 92.7% capital side of the budget to the operational side of the budget "') only district the state a TAX NATURAL ... we didn't '"":) The outperform theinstate in all to 21pass tested areas for thereferendum first time ever "') ask Paying cash for the new high school which will save an estimated As a result, we were able to: for more money, we simply asked permission to taxpayers move money from the Website: www.votejenmitchell.com Cell: 239-216-2056 Email: votejenmitchell@gmail.com '"":) $41 outperform the state in all 21 tested areas for92.7% the first time ever million dollars in interest payments '""'J increase our graduation rate to a record high NEAPOLITANfamily • July 2022

side of to the operational side of taxpayers the budget "') capital Paying cash forthe thebudget new high school which will save an -estimated PAID FOR BY JEN MITCHELL FOR SCHOOL BOARD DISTRICT 3 $41 million dollars in interest payments "') The Paying cash for the new highto school which will save taxpayers an... estimated only district in the state pass a TAX NATURAL referendum we didn't '"":) outperform the state in all 21 tested areas for the first time ever neafamily.com 5 $41 million dollars in interest payments ask for more money, we simply asked permission to move money from the "') The only district in the state to pass a TAX NATURAL referendum... we didn't capital side of the budget to the operational side of the budget ask for more money, we simply asked permission to move money the "') The only district in the state to pass a TAX NATURAL referendum ...from we didn't "') capital Paying for thebudget new school which will save an estimated side the to the operational side of the budget ask for cash moreof money, we high simply asked permission to taxpayers move money from the $41 million in interest payments "') capital side dollars of to the operational side of taxpayers the budget Paying cash forthe thebudget new high school which will save an estimated

DISCOVER IRISH DANCE THIS SUMMER Where dance is an adventure The Naples School of Irish Dance, 875 94th Ave. N., Naples FL 34108 Contact Robin Maki at 516-314-7404 or RLRBM@msn.com NaplesIrishDance@gmail.com

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NEAPOLITANfamily • July 2022

from the publisher… the parenting magazine devoted to collier county

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

2021

2020

2021

THIS MONTH Voting and Reading

2020

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

Articles and advertisements in Neapolitan Family do not necessarily reflect the opinion of the publisher nor does the publisher assume responsibility for statements made by our advertisers or editorial contributors. Acceptance of advertising by Neapolitan Family does not constitute an endorsement of the products, services, or information. We do not knowingly present any product or service that is fraudulent or misleading in nature. Neapolitan Family is available free of charge at distribution points throughout Collier County, as well as digitally at https://neafamily.com. Neapolitan Family is ©2022 by Neapolitan Family Publishing LLC. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part without written permission is strictly prohibited.

NEAPOLITANfamily • July 2022

Voting is not something we often think about during the summer months. But we have an election Aug. 23 that is too important to ignore. Three seats on the Collier County school board are up for grabs. The new board will be choosing the next superintendent, as Kamela Patton, Ph.D., is retiring at the end of the 2022-23 school year. Your vote matters, and will affect the future of our school district and county. Make your voice heard – VOTE! But first, turn to page 12 to learn more about the candidates. Neapolitan Family does not endorse any candidate, and the views expressed in the profiles are solely those of the candidates. That said, we wholeheartedly endorse voting, and we hope to see you all at the polls.

And now for something fun – books! I’m obsessed with reading year-round, but there is something special about curling up with a book in summer, especially for kids. They have a couple of months when they can read whatever they want. We asked our youngest readers to tell us about their favorite books, and one lucky reader won a $25 Barnes & Noble gift card.

Turn to page 24 to find out who took home the prize and for great summer reading suggestions for your kids, from kids.

As busy parents, it can be hard to find time to read, with so much demanding our time and attention. Joining a book club is a great way to stay accountable, and expand both your social circle and your mind. Writer Anna Snyder talked to several local women about their experiences starting or joining a book club, and her article appears on page 28.

Happy reading!

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COLLIER COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOLS

K

By Jennifer Kupiec

Elementary School Students Collect Cereal for Classmates

indness is a trait all parents hope to instill in their children. It’s also something Collier County Public Schools emphasizes. Many examples can be seen as you walk our school campuses, and we recently found two schools that took it a step further. It’s a story of students helping other students – two elementary schools coming together to ensure summer vacation is cereal-ously amazing.

Students at Laurel Oak Elementary partnered with students at Eden Park Elementary to hold a cereal drive. “We have two leadership teams – the Laurel Oak Elementary Ambassadors and the Eden Park Elementary Safety Patrol – coming together for this give-back event,” explained Chrissy Anderson, principal of Eden Park.

The goal was to collect more than 1,000 boxes of cereal. Laurel Oak’s students had to be creative. They even raised money through a lemonade stand to purchase the remaining number of boxes needed. All of their efforts paid off.

“Each child [at Eden Park] will receive two boxes of cereal, all because of the Laurel Oak community of students, parents, staff, and teachers who came together for our students,” said Anderson.

“It feels so good to be giving cereal for their summer vacation,” said Charlotte Bringardner, a fifth-grade student at Laurel Oak.

An Eden Park Elementary student sorts cereal boxes while Principal Chrissy Anderson looks on.

“It became a leadership project for the kids involved,” explained Laurel Oak teacher and student council advisor Laura Kerlek. “Our community, the Laurel Oak community, we could not have done it without them.”

For Anderson, the project was much more than a food drive. “I think what is really great about this event is that it goes beyond the idea of we’re giving back cereal.

I think what this has to do with is giving

our students here at Eden Park a chance to be inspired – inspired by the Laurel Oak community and inspired by the students and staff there who collected this cereal, which perhaps will inspire us, next year, to have a give-back event of our own.”

Laurel Oak fifth grader Mac Seidner said it perfectly: “Sharing and helping others, that’s what this was all about, and I think it matters to everyone.” We agree, Mac. It definitely matters.

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YOUR COMMUNITY NEWS & EVENTS

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NEW! INFANT CLASS OPENING JUNE 2022

L-R: Madison C., Dallise C., Piper S., Ciera P., Jennifer C., Alexis G., Destiny F., and Alicia F. celebrate their graduation from Pace Center for Girls, Lee last month at Broadway Palm Theatre in Fort Myers.

Pace Center for Girls Celebrates Eight Graduates in Lee County

P

ace Center for Girls, Lee last month recognized the accomplishments of its largest graduating class of eight girls at a ceremony held at Broadway Palm Theatre in Fort Myers.

Graduates Dallise C., Madison C., Alicia F., Destiny F., Alexis G., Ciera P., Piper S., and Ava T. were honored during a graduation ceremony witnessed by their families, friends, and fellow Pace girls. Priority Marketing President and Chief Creative Officer Teri Hansen delivered the commencement address.

The ceremony is a milestone achievement for the Pace girls, who have defied the odds to overcome various personal and academic trials in order to complete their education and graduate.

Members of the Class of 2022 now are ready to take on the world with dreams of higher education and future careers in medicine, cosmetology, and beyond.

“This year, we were thrilled to celebrate this huge accomplishment for our largest graduating class of eight Pace girls,” said Jennifer Cellitti, executive director of Pace Lee. “Watching these eight young women overcome so many challenges and graduate makes everybody at our center incredibly proud. It’s a testament to what we do at Pace, and we feel so privileged to be a part of their journey.”

Pace Lee provides girls and young women ages 11 to 18 an opportunity for a better future through education, counseling, training, and advocacy. Since its inception 15 years ago, Pace Lee has helped more than 1,000 girls and young women in Lee County find the path to success. After leaving Pace, 100% of students improved their academic performance, 96% had no involvement with the juvenile justice system within one year of exiting the program, and 89% were either in school or gainfully employed.

For more information, visit www.pacecenter.org/locations/lee or call 239-425-2366.

NEAPOLITANfamily • July 2022

Your child deserves the BEST! Creative Learning Outstanding Education Nurturing Environment For more information or to schedule a tour: 239-455-3227 preschool@naplestemple.org

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YOUR COMMUNITY NEWS & EVENTS

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Books for Collier Kids Partners with CCSO for Hot Summer Nights

B

ooks for Collier Kids is distributing books to children during the Collier County Sheriff Office’s Hot Summer Nights events in July.

“We’re excited to collaborate with CCSO for Hot Summer Nights 2022 because getting books into the hands, homes, and hearts of children is crucial, especially during the summer months,” said Sallie Williams, chair of Books for Collier Kids, a nonprofit that provides new books to children in low-income families throughout Collier County. “Without steady access to books over the summer, children enter the next school year with reading skills 30% lower than their peers, a phenomenon known as ‘summer slide’.”

The free, family-friendly Hot Summer Nights feature a bounce house, games, water balloon station, foosball, karaoke, movies, music, dancing, and free food. The remaining dates for this summer include: July 14, Eagle Lakes Park in Naples; July 21, Mackle Park in Marco Island; and July 28, Everglades City Park.

For more information, contact Sallie Williams at 239-3944062 or visit www.BooksforCollierKids.org.

Immokalee Foundation Students Enjoy Isabella Eghrari Scholarships

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ost scholarships are earmarked for college expenses. While very necessary, this is not a very exciting way to spend hardearned awards. The Isabella Eghrari Memorial Scholarship is a little different. Each year, Immokalee Foundation students apply for $500 scholarships that are earmarked for one thing – fun.

This year, 13 college freshmen spent their scholarships on a variety of items and activities, including makeup, music production equipment, renting a boat, skydiving, a shopping spree, go kart racing, and much more.

“This money helps our students do things they love or would like to try without worrying about money. For some of our students, this may be the first time they have ever experienced having disposable income,” said Paulina Magana, postsecondary program manager at the Immokalee Foundation.

The annual scholarship was established in 2011 by Massoud Eghrari, M.D., and his wife, Tayebeh, to honor Massoud Eghrari’s late wife, Isabella. Students apply for the scholarship with an essay describing what they would do with the $500 prize. Current scholarship recipients attend a variety of colleges and universities, including Harvard University, Florida SouthWestern State College, Florida Gulf Coast University, and University of Florida.

“All these students are looking to better themselves by pursuing a college education,” said Eghrari. “This yearly scholarship allows us to remember my late wife by providing these well-deserving students the opportunity to have fun and reward themselves.”

For more information, visit https://immokaleefoundation.org or call 239-430-9122.

NEAPOLITANfamily • July 2022

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11

BACK TO SCHOOL

Meet The Collier County School Board Candidates

I

n addition to picking out new backpacks and school supplies, residents of Collier County will be voting for three new school board members in the primary election on Aug. 23.

Seats in Districts 1, 3, and 5 will be decided between the primary and the November general election. Voters select one candidate in each district. The four-year terms are staggered, with no limit to the amount of terms a member can serve if elected. In addition to appointing the superintendent, the five-member board is responsible for making decisions that affect the daily operations of the public schools in the district. For more information on the role of a school board member, visit www.collierschools.com/Domain/101.

Early voting will take place Aug. 13-20 from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Mail-in voting runs July 13-Aug. 15, with the ballot request deadline on Aug. 13. Voter registration must be completed by July 25. Visit www.colliervotes.gov for more information.

Attending school board meetings, which are open to the public, is a great way to be involved with your child’s education. Upcoming meetings and agendas are posted on www. collierschools.com.

Below are profiles of the candidates running for the Collier County school board. The information for this article was submitted by the candidates and does not represent an endorsement

by Neapolitan Family magazine. Submissions were edited for space and clarity. Two candidates did not respond to our request for information. Their websites can be found on page 15.

DISTRICT 1 Lely Elementary, Lely High, Manatee Elementary, Manatee Middle, Marco Island Academy, Marco Island Charter Middle, Parkside Elementary, Shadowlawn Elementary, and Tommie Barfield Elementary.

KIMBERLY BOOBYER

www.kimberlyboobyerforschoolboard.com

BACKGROUND AND FAMILY Originally from Michigan, I moved to Naples in 1997 to pursue my golf career. I homeschool my daughter, 16, who has Down syndrome. Currently I teach and coach golf and virtues with First Tee Program, and I volunteer with Special Olympics. I have a strong history 12

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of school, church, community, and youth involvement.

EXPERIENCE Post high school, I was involved in management work. Thereafter, I worked in the pharmaceutical/medical/home care industry as a home care consultant, certified diabetes educator, medical insurance biller, and pharmacy technician. After moving to Naples, I apprenticed and became assistant golf professional at Golden Gate Country Club. For the past 23 years, I have taught and coached golf.

PLATFORM AND GOALS I will restore the foundations of academic excellence and traditional values for all students. On average 38% of students in CCPS are failing English language arts and math in grades 3-10. I will be fiscally responsible with the $1.3 billion budget and direct more of it toward teacher resources for the 38% of failing students to help them achieve greater academic success. I will work to strengthen our civics curriculum in order to develop our students into outstanding citizens. I will protect students by continuing to collaborate with the Collier County Sheriff’s Office for safe and secure schools and by protecting the parent’s right to determine the upbringing, education,

and health of their minor child. I will offer transparency for parents in every aspect of their child’s education and work hard to provide more opportunities for parental engagement that are effective.

JERRY RUTHERFORD

https://jerryrutherford.com

BACKGROUND AND FAMILY I am a father, grandfather, and devoted husband of 39 years. I served in the U.S. Marine Reserve and U.S. Air Force as a medical material specialist. I have served in prison ministries. I have worked in insurance and as a painting contractor. I also show up to speak on behalf of those who could not or would not attend school board meetings.

EXPERIENCE I have more than 35 years speaking at school board meetings with advocacy of key issues. I have collaborated with many school board members one-on-one to move specific concerns forward for the benefit of the students. I served on the state textbook committee in 2005-06 and put the national motto back in schools in 2005.

PLATFORM AND GOALS As a school board member, I will promote the Florida B.E.S.T. Standards, morals, and ethics as established in the student conduct policy, and the study of original source documents.

I will listen to parents and uphold Florida’s Parental Rights in Education law.

I will work to eliminate sexually NEAPOLITANfamily • July 2022

explicit materials in classrooms and media centers.

I believe that there are five things needed to provide a good education and develop good citizens and great leaders: 1. Discipline is needed to form good work habits and study habits for reaching the goals of life.

2. Textbooks that are free from bias, censorship, and rewritten history.

3. Morals and virtues are necessary to build strong character, good citizens, and great leaders.

4. A good understanding of our founding documents and our form of government.

5. Respect for self, others, property, and authority.

We need a return to American culture in society, and this begins in the classroom.

We need a return to unity, while embracing diversity; equal rights, not special rights; basic education, not indoctrination; ingenuity, not promiscuity; morality, not sexuality. Our goal is to produce educated citizens, capable of thinking for themselves, with a firm appreciation of American exceptionalism, who will not be easily swayed by Marxist, communist, or socialist ideologies, and who are equipped to take their place in American society.

JORY WESTBERRY

www.jorywestberry.com

of middle school and high school science in CCPS.

NEAPOLITANfamily • July 2022

https://votegreer.com

EXPERIENCE I was an elementary and middle school teacher (Golden Apple recipient), Assistant Principal of the Year, principal at Tommie Barfield Elementary for 14 years, mentor for new teachers, elected to CCPS school board in 2018 (currently vice-chair), earned Distinguished Board Member status, and board member of Florida School Boards Association.

PLATFORM AND GOALS My goals are to: • Continue forward progress: Ensure that our school buildings and buses have tight security in coordination with the Collier County Sheriff’s Office.

• Continue to expand career and technical education and workforce development.

• Increase the graduation rate, currently at 92.6%.

• Maintain the checks and balances of multiple audits conducted annually and address concerns.

• Examine teacher/staff shortage issues and implement strategies to recruit and retain the best.

• Review the procedures from the recent pandemic and revise as needed.

• Continue to achieve being debt-free in 2026, which will save approximately $40 million for taxpayers.

• Advocate for pre-kindergarten services/teachers and promote the need for early learning sites.

• Maintain A status awarded in 2017.

• Increase the number of and accessibility to academic competitions.

• With the implementation of the New Florida Standards, investigate more stream-lined approaches to provide training for teachers.

DISTRICT 3 BACKGROUND AND FAMILY My husband, Paul, and our son, Ryan, and I moved to Naples in 1989, and we both started teaching in CCPS. Ryan was an avid athlete at Lely High School and graduated from the University of Central Florida. He is the coordinator

JANA GREER

BridgePrep Academy of Collier, Calusa Park Elementary, Golden Gate Elementary, Golden Gate Middle, Golden Gate High, Golden Terrace Elementary, Gulf Coast High, Laurel Oak Elementary, Mike Davis Elementary, Oakridge Middle, and Vineyards Elementary.

BACKGROUND AND FAMILY I have lived in Naples for over nine years with my husband and six children. My husband and I had custody for four years of our nephew, who has become a U.S. Marine. I have a background in massage therapy, trained as a doula, and experience in customer service, technology, operations, and business. Our oldest child is headed to senior year, and I have been fighting for my kids’ education for every one of those 12 years.

I have been active in various nonprofits such as Habitat for Humanity and our church. I help run a parent group for my kids’ school and participate in the ESE Advisory Board for Collier County Public Schools.

EXPERIENCE As a mom of six, I understand the challenges of raising children in today’s society. I homeschooled for four years and then placed my kids in a public charter school. While homeschooling, I helped in our local area co-op. I attended public and private schools during my education. I have seen how things changed over the years – some for the good and others not. While modern technology brings benefits, we have fallen away from the root foundations in education: reading classic books entirely, teaching history from kindergarten on up, and focusing on teaching children how to succeed, and not just passing them along.

PLATFORM AND GOALS 1. Bring American values back into America’s classrooms. We have fallen away from the foundations of what education was to be: producing well rounded and thoughtful citizens with morals and virtues. continued on page 14 neafamily.com

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continued from page 13

We need to set up children for success by choosing the right curriculum and supporting our teachers.

2. Ensure fiscal responsibility. We have a $1.3 billion dollar budget currently (likely to increase with the 2022-23 school year). This budget has yielded 38% of our graduates finishing their education below reading and math levels. We are top heavy in administration costs, and are lacking in support for teachers and students.

3. Restore parental rights. Parents have not only been ignored, but our rights violated. I want to support parents and set clear expectations for our district officials.

Schools need to be reminded they work for us, the parents, and not some “grand” liberal idea of education. I plan to have a better system for parents to express their concerns and a better process for resolving a parent’s issue with their child’s school.

KELLY LICHTER

www.kellylichter.com

Classical Academy, Collier County’s highest performing public school. Her successes in public education have been remarkable.

Kelly has volunteered her time for over 10 years at MCA, and her efforts have been recognized by the Florida Department of Education, U.S. News & World Report, and Eagle Forum. Most recently, the Florida Department of Education ranked Mason Classical Academy #1 in Collier County and #8 out of 3,392 schools in the state of Florida for 2021. U.S. News & World Report has ranked the academy #1,021 nationally.

PLATFORM AND GOALS 1. Establish a knowledge-based curriculum, which will improve academic outcomes.

2. Eliminate the unnecessary burdens and stressors placed on our educators, so they can truly focus on what is most important, our students.

3. Provide our children, faculty, and staff with a safe and secure learning environment, which is as important as the academic instruction.

4. School board members must represent “We the People,” not a massive bureaucracy and its self-serving interests.

5. In order to rein in runaway government spending, the school board must develop a five-year budget plan that includes a 5% shift each year from administrative expenses to teacher salaries and studentrelated expenses, and freeze the property tax millage rate to the current rollback rate for three years.

BACKGROUND AND FAMILY Kelly Lichter is a wife and mother of two school-aged children. Professionally, Kelly works in real estate and community association property management. She holds a bachelor’s degree in history from Baldwin Wallace College and a master’s degree in social studies education from Nova Southeastern University.

In her spare time, she enjoys competing in local 5K races, triathlons, and tent camping with her family. She also volunteers her time coaching boys basketball and helps a local animal rescue by fostering homeless dogs until they find their forever homes.

JEN MITCHELL

EXPERIENCE Kelly is a former teacher, and the founding board president of Mason

BACKGROUND AND FAMILY Jen Mitchell is the current chair of the Collier County school board. She is a

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www.votejenmitchell.com

local Realtor and mother of four children, all of whom have attended traditional Collier County public schools. She has lived in Naples for 25 years along with her husband, Chris.

EXPERIENCE Jen graduated from Purdue University with a degree in elementary education.

She taught at Naples Park Elementary before making the decision to stay home and raise her children. This allowed her to spend the past 18 years volunteering in classrooms and serving on PTO boards and SAC committees, as well as district-level advisory groups. In 2018, Jen was elected to the school board.

PLATFORM AND GOALS • Increasing student achievement: With great teachers and targeted instruction we must continue to work to improve reading and math proficiency. Recently, we achieved a record-high graduation rate of 92.7%, outperformed the state for the first time ever in all 21 tested areas, and maintained our “A” district rating.

• Expanding career and technical education: 30% of our students do not go on to college. We must ensure that those students have a career pathway when they cross the stage at graduation. We recently received $5.8 million from Governor Ron DeSantis to open the new ITech Glades facility for this very purpose.

• Ensuring comprehensive school safety: We must continue to work with our law enforcement partners and community health providers to ensure our schools are safe and student mental health issues are addressed.

• Maintaining strict budget oversight: We are on track to be debt free by 2026 and are paying cash for the new high school currently being built to save taxpayers $41 million in interest. We must continue to look for ways to be efficient with your tax dollars.

Attracting and retaining great teachers: This is an issue nationwide. Teachers are seeking more autonomy in the classroom and better pay. During my time on the board we have increased pay for all employees, across all salary schedules, by 16%. We are currently working on a creative solution to address the workforce housing issue that our teachers face, as well.

NEAPOLITANfamily • July 2022

DISTRICT 5 Bethune Education Center, Big Cypress Elementary, Collier Charter Academy, Corkscrew Elementary, Corkscrew Middle, Cypress Palm Middle, Eden Park Elementary, Estates Elementary, Everglades City School, Highlands Elementary, Immokalee Middle, Immokalee High, Immokalee Technical Center, Lake Trafford Elementary, Naples Classical Academy, Palmetto Elementary, Palmetto Ridge High, Pinecrest Elementary, RCMA Immokalee Community Academy, Sabal Palm Elementary, and Village Oaks Elementary.

ARTHUR BOYER, PH.D. www.boyer2022.com

BACKGROUND AND FAMILY Arthur Boyer, Ph.D., is native of Haiti. He has been a resident of Collier County for 30 years. He holds the following degrees: bachelor of science in criminal justice, master of public administration from Hodges University, and doctor of education in organizational leadership from Argosy University.

EXPERIENCE Boyer has been an educator for 20 years. He has contributed his knowledge at Bethune Education Center, Immokalee Technical College, Immokalee Foundation, Immokalee Guadalupe Center, Southwestern Vocational Training, and Hodges University. Boyer specializes in leadership, academic, and professional coaching. He is the author of Managing Multiculturalism in the Classroom.

PLATFORM AND GOALS • Equitable education: All students NEAPOLITANfamily • July 2022

need and deserve the same opportunities to succeed. It will be my priority to work with other board members, parents, local organizations, and other stakeholders to identify the advantages and challenges, and to allocate resources to ensure success.

• Commitment to special education: Special education is personal to me. No condition should jeopardize the success of our students. No condition can be stronger than the unity that we can form to ensure the success of our students.

• Honoring teachers: We are forever indebted to our teachers. We will have the best school system if we develop and maintain leadership practices that value and honor those everyday heroes. I am ready to promote the personal, the professional, and administrative causes of our teachers.

• Parental engagement and involvement: Elected officials and school leaders do not replace parents. Parental engagement and involvement are a must.

• Community advocacy: Each classroom should be a perfect picture of the whole community. I will be the advocate of the community. I will actively value the opportunity to advocate for each student, each family, and each classroom at all levels of our government. The best interests of the community will always count.

JACQUALENE KEAY

www.votejackiekeay.com

BACKGROUND AND FAMILY I grew up in Naples and graduated from Lely High School in 1988. Joining the Army was my only option out of poverty. Our family lived in Germany for 17

years. I have a master of arts degree with an emphasis in professional counseling. I am in my last class for my chartered financial consultant designation. I am blessed to have four adult children. My youngest, Dezi, attended Mason Classical Academy from 8th to 11th grade. Due to COVID, she did virtual learning and graduated from Palmetto Ridge High School last year. Dezi also joined the Army and is stationed in Germany, which is where she was born and spent her formative years.

EXPERIENCE I spent a total of 10 years, from 2004 to 2014, homeschooling my children, from kindergarten to freshman year of college. My three younger children and I learned to speak German fluently. I believe that the world is the most excellent classroom, so we traveled extensively around the world, and we studied the culture, people, and language of all the countries we visited.

In 2015, I applied as a substitute teacher at Mason Classical Academy. I was offered a full-time position as a kindergarten co-teacher. I excelled in this position because I used my interpersonal skills to motivate students to learn, and contributed to planning and executing lesson plans.

I was also a substitute teacher for grades K-12. I was at MCA for two years and miss the students terribly!

PLATFORM AND GOALS Vision: To connect with, educate, mentor, and empower the next generation to fulfill Dr. Martin Luther King’s dream.

Mission: To unite our community to ensure our students have the education, skills, and resources needed to compete for and secure jobs in the global world and to protect our democracy.

I’m for students first! I am very passionate about our students and S.A.M.: safety, academic achievement/achievement gap, and mental health.

I spent over a year advocating at the board of county commissioners meetings, city council, and school board meetings about students, teachers, and the need for workforce housing. I met with various organizations and foundations in Immokalee and Naples to find needed resources to share with students and their families in our community. I am a firm believer that actions speak louder than words! continued on page 16 neafamily.com

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ROY TERRY

https://voteroyterry.com

BACKGROUND AND FAMILY I graduated from Western Maryland College in 1963. After teaching in Baltimore, Md., for two years, I taught in Sarasota for two years. I coached football at Colorado State University, University of Louisville, and Morehead State University for eight years and then was the athletic director at California State College in Pennsylvania for two years. I moved to Naples in 1978 with my wife, Helen. Our son, Roy, and daughter, Kathy, both are graduates of

Naples High School. I have four grandchildren and one great-granddaughter.

Additional District 5 Candidates

EXPERIENCE I have been a teacher, coach, athletic director, assistant principal, principal at Lely and Palmetto Ridge high schools, and am currently serving on the school board. I have been serving Collier County for 44 years.

https://anaturino.com

ANA TURINO

TIM MOSHIER

https://timforcolliercountyschools.org

PLATFORM AND GOALS I want to maintain the positive direction this board has been taking the past 10 years under Dr. Patton. The board functions well, and we are getting a lot done for students and teachers. We will be opening a new high school in 2023, and that will require rezoning in high school and at the same time in elementary school. We need to continue focusing on safe schools and our strong partnership with law enforcement. We also need to increase career and technical education opportunities. And last, but definitely not least, we need to develop strong recruitment and retention programs for our teachers. We need to pay them more and cut down on mandated paperwork so they can fully concentrate on their job, teaching!

Remember … experience matters.

Keep Me TangleFree!

Reel In & Recycle your used fishing line savethemanatee.org

800-432-JOIN (5646)

Photo ©Save the Manatee Club

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NEAPOLITANfamily • July 2022

BACK TO SCHOOL EXPO ’22 Saturday, August 13 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

NEW LOCATION!

North Collier Regional Park Gym Booth registration is now open!

Reserve your spot now Limited number of premium booths To register, scan QR code or visit https://neafamily.com For more information, email info@neafamily.com

NEAPOLITANfamily • July 2022

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KIDS’ CORNER

By Andrea Stetson

Make a Splash This Summer We found the best I budget and luxury options in SWFL where your family can have a blast while staying cool.

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n the searing summer sun, swimming scores when it coming to celebrating. For birthday parties, family get-togethers, or just a special day, heading to the pool can be the best way to spend time outdoors without sweating. For those who want to go beyond the backyard pool parties, Southwest Florida has an array of options from affordable to decadent.

The most inexpensive way to zip down a waterslide into a cool pool is to head to the Golden Gate Aquatic Center or Donna Fiala Eagle Lakes Community Park in Naples. At Golden Gate there is a large swimming pool, children’s activity pool, a wading pool, a 160-foot open slide, a 110-foot closed slide, and one- and three-meter springboards.

Eagle Lakes has similar attractions and even

bigger slides with a 177-foot open slide and a 172-foot closed slide. Best of all, adults pay only $2 and children just $1.50.

“Collier County Parks and Recreation aquatic facilities are fantastic venues to hold children’s birthday parties,” said Peg Ruby, events and marketing coordinator for Collier County Parks & Recreation.

Party pavilions are available to rent for $20 an hour, and you can bring food and decorations.

The Fort Myers Beach Community Pool is also one of the lower cost venues with a waterslide. For tinier tots there is a kiddie pool with water works features that squirt and dump water, along a small climbing structure. Admission is $7 for adults and $5 for children.

NEAPOLITANfamily • July 2022

For a bigger splash, head to a local water park: Sun-N-Fun Lagoon at North Naples Regional Park and Sun Splash Family Waterpark in Cape Coral. Both have a plethora of waterslides, a lazy river, and special areas for babies and toddlers. These parks set admission prices based on height. At Sun-N-Fun, admission is $13 for those 48 inches and taller, and $6 for those under that height. Collier County residents receive a $2 discount, and children 3 years and younger are free. Sun Splash is costlier at $29.99 for those 48 inches and taller, and $22.99 for those shorter than 48 inches. Guests can save $5 by buying tickets online. Ages 2 years and younger are free.

For a special day, several area hotels offer a day pass that gives access to all the pools, waterslides, and outdoor activities. It’s a laid back way to enjoy the day without the crowds. Climb three stories to the top of the waterslides at the Hyatt Regency Coconut Point Resort and Spa in Estero, and then zip down at speeds up to 30 miles per hour on a twisting slide that plunges you into the splash pool. In addition to the five waterslides, there are waterfalls and a lazy river. Guests also can enjoy cornhole, a rock climbing wall, and giant Jenga and Connect Four. Daily admission starts at $65 for adults and $55 for children.

“Families can experience a true tropical getaway at our worldclass 3-acre water park with a lazy river lined with shady palm trees, and multiple water slides and pools for the whole family to enjoy,” said Rhett Wilson, the resort’s director of sales and marketing.

Farther south, the Naples Grande Beach Resort touts its 100-foot waterslide and beach entry style pool. Day passes begin at $65 for adults and $32 for children. Passes are available Monday-Thursday during the off season, but there are some blackout dates, according to Melinda Hutchins, the resort’s director of sales and marketing.

The day passes are available through www.resortpass.com.

At the height of luxury is the Ritz-Carlton Golf Resort in Naples.

There, kids and adults can splash and play in the lazy river, at the kid’s splash pad, and on the waterslides. Waterslides have a height requirement of 40 inches for the body slides and 48 inches for the tube slide. Prices start at $115. Guests also can rent a cabana for up to six people starting at $850 for the day. That includes the day passes for all six people, the private shaded cabana with sofa and chaise lounge seating, a bottle of champagne, a mini refrigerator stocked with bottled water and nonalcoholic beverages, a dedicated server, and a security safe. Sandra Rios, who oversees the resort’s public relations, says it’s a great place to spend a special day.

Happy kids.

Sparkly smiles.

Dr. Sandor.

Download & call today!

Naples Pediatric Dentistry

239.592.0800 www.drmarilynsandor.com

NEAPOLITANfamily • July 2022

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OUT & ABOUT

Theatre, 1380 Colonial Blvd., Fort Myers. Call 239-278-4422 or visit https://broadwaypalm.com.

7:30 p.m. A Chorus Line. Also July 2. Naples Performing Arts Center presents the classic Broadway show. Located at Community School of Naples, 13275 Livingston Rd., Naples. Visit https:// naplesperformingartscenter.com.

2

SATURDAY

9 a.m. Free Zoo Admission for Collier Residents. Present qualifying ID for free entry on the first Saturday of the month.

Located at Naples Zoo, 1590 Goodlette-Frank Rd., Naples. Call 239-315-7626 or check www.napleszoo.org.

9 a.m. Free Rookery Bay Admission for Collier Residents.

Free entry to Rookery Bay ELC for Collier County residents with proper ID. Located at Rookery Bay, 300 Tower Rd., Naples. Call 239-530-5972 or check https://rookerybay.org.

10 a.m. Super Saturdays. Try a class with activities. Located at Naples Family Martial Arts, 5926 Premier Way, #108, Naples.

Check https://naplesfamilymartialarts.com or call 239-315-6303.

1 p.m. Autism Social Skills Playgroup. Family Initiative’s weekly group where kids with autism fit in, progress, make friends, and are happy. Located at Christ Community Church, 4050 Colonial Blvd., Fort Myers. Check www.fi-florida.org or call 239-910-0712.

1:30 p.m. Live Science Show. Saturdays and Sundays. Fun experiments that change with every show. Located at STEMLab at Miromar Outlets, 10801 Corkscrew Rd., Suite 192, Estero. Check https://miromaroutlets.com or call 239-948-3766.

2 p.m. Saturday Movie Matinee: The SpongeBob Movie: Sponge on the Run. All ages. Rated PG. Registration not required. Located at Immokalee Library, 417 N. First St., Immokalee.

Check www.collierlibrary.org or call 239-252-7073.

in July 2022

Photo by Peggy Farren

1

FRIDAY

7:30 a.m. Open Gyms. Hosted by Collier County Sheriff’s Office. Monday-Friday through July 22, 7:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Currently enrolled middle and high school students. Located at Oakridge Middle, Golden Gate Middle, Manatee Middle, Lely High, Palmetto Ridge High, and Immokalee High. Call 239-252-0144.

3 p.m. Movie Day: Encanto. Rated PG. Light snacks provided.

Registration not required. Located at Marco Island Library, 210 S. Heathwood Dr., Marco Island. Call 239-252-7064 or check www. collierlibrary.org.

5:30 p.m. The Wizard of Oz. Select dates through Aug. 13. Fly over the rainbow with Dorothy. Located at Broadway Palm Dinner 20

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3 p.m. Teen Book Club. Ages 11-17. No assigned reading. Bring a book that you want to talk about. Snacks provided. Registration not required. Located at Headquarters Library, 2385 Orange Blossom Dr., Naples. Check www.collierlibrary.org or call 239-252-7364.

3

SUNDAY

9 a.m. Dogs in the Garden. If this is your dog’s first visit, you will need to fill out a dog form prior to arrival. One dog per adult.

No retractable leashes permitted. Located at Naples Botanical Garden, 4820 Bayshore Dr., Naples. Call 239-643-7275 or check www.naplesgarden.org 10 a.m. Free Garden Admission. Free entry with Bonita Spring address on a photo ID on the first Sunday of the month. Located at Wonder Gardens, 27180 Old 41 Rd., Bonita Springs. Call 239992-2591 or check https://wondergardens.org.

4

MONDAY

10 a.m. Fourth of July Parade. Bring the family and enjoy the annual Naples Fourth of July parade. Located in downtown Naples.

Check www.fifthavenuesouth.com.

NEAPOLITANfamily • July 2022

9 p.m. Naples Fourth of July Fireworks. Fireworks will be launched from a barge just north of the Naples Pier. Located at Naples Pier, 25 12th Ave. S., Naples.

Check www.fifthavenuesouth.com or call 239-692-8436.

5

TUESDAY

7:30 a.m. Gone Fishing. Hosted by Collier County Sheriff’s Office. Through July 29. Monday-Thursday, 7:30 a.m. to 12 p.m.

Closed July 4. Kids fish and learn about water safety. Parental supervision required.

Located at Naples Pier, 25 12th Ave. S., Naples. Call 239-252-0144 to register.

Located at Golden Gate Library, 2432 Lucerne Rd., Naples. Call 239-252-4542 or check www.collierlibrary.org.

Vanderbilt Beach Library, 788 Vanderbilt Beach Rd., Naples. Call 239-252-7160 or check www.collierlibrary.org.

2 p.m. Turtles. Grades K-5. Learn all about the sea turtles from Rookery Bay experts. Registration is required. Located at South Regional Library, 8065 Lely Cultural Pkwy., Naples. Call 239-252-7542 or check www.collierlibrary.org.

8 p.m. Family Comedy Night. Some of Southwest Florida’s best family-friendly comedy. This month’s theme is Backyard BBQ. Some adult content included. Located at The Naples Players, 701 Fifth Ave. S., Naples. Check https://naplesplayers.org or call 239-263-7990.

8

FRIDAY

WEDNESDAY

9 a.m. BOGO Family Fridays. Also July 1, 15, and 22. Buy-one-get-free admission. Story hour, crafts, food truck, and more. Located at Rookery Bay, 300 Tower Rd., Naples. Call 239-530-5972 or check https://rookerybay.org.

9 a.m. Safari Squad. For ages 3-5 and an adult. Animal encounter, storytime, art, and play stations. July’s theme is Keeping it Cool. Located at Naples Zoo, 1590 Goodlette-Frank Rd., Naples. Call 239262-5409 or check www.napleszoo.org.

10 a.m. Mango Days. Also Saturday.

Fruit-themed activities and crafts. Located at Immokalee Pioneer Museum at Roberts Ranch. 1215 Roberts Ave. W., Immokalee.

Check https://colliermuseums.com or call 239-252-2611.

7

9

6

THURSDAY

10:30 a.m. Introduction to 3D Printers.

Teens and adults. Registration is required.

SATURDAY

3 p.m. Pups ‘n’ Books. Read to a dog or just pet one. All ages. Located at

11 MONDAY 9 a.m. Avow Kids Acting It Out Drama Camp for Teens. This free theater camp uses drama, music, and art to allow children to feel and process their emotions through self expression. Space is limited.

Located at Avow, 1095 Whippoorwill Lane, Naples. Call 239-261-4404 or email avowkids@avowcares.org.

5:15 p.m. Summer Run for Fun. Hosted by Gulf Coast Runners. Free for ages 3-14. Mock track meet on Mondays through Aug. 1 (except July 4). Located at Naples High School Track, 1100 Golden Eagle Cr., Naples. Check https:// gulfcoastrunners.wordpress.com.

Children’s Montessori School SUMMER CAMP

Animal Discoveries Campers Ages 12 months to Pre-K/K 239-593-6668 childmont101@gmail.com NEAPOLITANfamily • July 2022

Summer VPK www.childmont.com neafamily.com

21

13 WEDNESDAY 10 a.m. All Aboard for Storytime. Ages 2-5. Explore transportation books with museum staff on a train. Registration required.

Located at Naples Depot Museum, 1051 5th Ave. S., Naples.

Check https://colliermuseums.com or call 239-252-8419.

PLANS Y & URGENT INSURANCE WE ACCEPT: RVICE PRIMARY & URGENT PEN! CARE SERVICE

re When NOW OPEN! Us S We Are Here When aturday: 9AM - 2PM You Need Us

ro Community EXTENDED HOURS HOURS EXTENDED ediatric Care from (M-F): 8AM -- 8PM 8PM || Saturday: Saturday: 9AM 9AM -- 2PM 2PM (M-F): 8AM ars old including:

Dr. Shahzaib Mirza

the • ADHD Offering Management Offering the Estero Estero Community Community State of the Art Pediatric Pediatric Care Care from from • Behavioral Health State of the Art Newborn to 21 years old old including: including: • Specialist Referrals to Newborn 21 years •• •• •• ••

ENT

Walk ins ins welcome welcome Walk On Site Site Xray Xray On Covid Testing Testing Covid Immunizations Immunizations

ADHD Management Management •• ADHD Behavioral Health Health •• Behavioral Specialist Referrals Referrals •• Specialist

14 THURSDAY 4 p.m. Lego Fun. Ages 4-11. Share ideas, be creative, and have fun. Bricks provided. Registration not required. Located at Estates Library, 1266 Golden Gate Blvd. W., Naples. Call 239-252-7109 or check www.collierlibrary.org.

INSURANCE PLANS PLANS INSURANCE

6 p.m.

Hot Summer Nights. Free family fun nights hosted by WE WE ACCEPT: ACCEPT: Collier County Sheriff’s Office. Games, activities, music, and food.

Located at Eagle Lakes Park, 11565 Tamiami Tr. E., Naples. Call 239-252-0144 or visit www.colliersheriff.org.

15 FRIDAY 8 p.m. Summer Late Night Skate. All ages. Must have a valid membership or purchase a day pass. Located at the Edge Skate Park, Fleischmann Park, 1600 Fleischmann Blvd., Naples. Call 239213-3020 or check www.naplesgov.com.

16 SATURDAY 10 a.m. Take Flight Family Day. A fun-filled celebration of all things that fly. Family-friendly crafts and activities. Located at Collier Museum at Government Center, 3331 Tamiami Tr. E., Naples. Call 239-252-8476 or check https://colliermuseums.com.

17 SUNDAY 9 a.m. Cars and Coffee. See cool cars and enjoy live music.

Located at Mercato Shops, Naples. Call 239-254-1080 or visit www.mercatoshops.com.

18 MONDAY

INSURANCE PLANS WE ACCEPT:

11 a.m., 2 p.m., and 3 p.m. Escape from Atlantis. Ages 7-11. A unique underwater-themed escape room. Escape the lost city of Atlantis. Registration required. Located at Bonita Springs Library, 10560 Reynolds St., Bonita Springs. Call 239-533-4860 or check www.leegov.com/library.

RICS za Trail,

19 TUESDAY

STARZ PEDIATRICS Dr. Shahzaib Mirza 19910 S Tamiami Trail, m C, ) (7827 -STARSuite Estero Fl 33928

ment th rals

3 p.m. Introduction to Underwater Archaeology for Kids. Grades 1-5. Kids will learn the basics of underwater archaeology. Registration required. Located at Estates Library, 1266 Golden Gate Blvd. W., Naples. Call 239-252-7109 or check www. collierlibrary.org.

Dr. Shahzaib Mirza

(239) 966-STAR (7827)

3 p.m. Water’s Journey. Grades K-5. Join Ranger Lori to talk about wet stuff falling from the sky and make a craft. Registration required. Located at Vanderbilt Beach Library, 788 Vanderbilt Beach Rd., Naples.Dr. Check www.collierlibrary.org or call 239-252-7160.

Shahzaib Mirza Dr. Shahzaib Mirza 8:30 p.m. Movies on the Lawn: School of Rock. Gates

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NEAPOLITANfamily • July 2022

open at 7:30 p.m. Located at Mercato Shops, Naples. Call 239254-1080 or visit www.mercatoshops.com.

21 THURSDAY

Dance With Us This Summer!

10 a.m. Little Explorers. Ages 18 months to 5 years. Multisensory, interactive activities, stories, and crafts. This week, learn about all turtles. Located at Conservancy of SWFL, 1495 Smith Preserve Way, Naples. Call 239-262-0304 or visit https://conservancy.org.

CAMPS CLASSES INTENSIVES

2 p.m. Sea Shore Surprises. Grades K-5. Find out how sand is formed, why waves tumble, and what creatures live on the beach and in the ocean. Registration required. Located at South Regional Library, 8065 Lely Cultural Pkwy., Naples. Call 239-252-7542 or check www.collierlibrary.org 6 p.m. Hot Summer Nights. Free family fun nights hosted by Collier County Sheriff’s Office. Games, activities, music, and food.

Located at Mackle Park, 1361 Andalusia Terrace, Marco Island.

Call 239-252-0144 or visit www.colliersheriff.org.

26 TUESDAY 6 p.m. Neon Art for Tweens & Teens. Ages 11-18. Design your own neon sign. No prior experience necessary. Reserve your space. Located at South County Library, 21100 Three Oaks Pkwy., Estero. Call 239-533-4400 or check www.leegov.com/library.

28 THURSDAY

Join the Fun! www.naplesdancearts.com 239-513-6999

10:30 a.m. Pre-Readers Baby Shark Extravaganza.

Ages 2-5. Join us for all things Baby Shark. Stories, craft, and singing and dancing to the iconic song. Located at Bonita Springs Library, 10560 Reynolds St., Bonita Springs. Call 239-533-4860 or check www.leegov.com.

2 p.m. Sharks. Learn about the sharks lurking in our waters. Registration not required. Located at Immokalee Library, 417 N. First St., Immokalee. Check www.collierlibrary.org or call 239-252-7073.

6 p.m. Hot Summer Nights. Free family fun nights hosted by Collier County Sheriff’s Office. Games, activities, music, and food.

Located in Everglades City. Visit www.colliersheriff.org or call 239252-0144.

29 FRIDAY 6 p.m. Retro Game Night. Bring friends and family and revisit your childhood. Enjoy the free ice cream sundae bar. All ages. Located at Naples Depot Museum, 1051 5th Ave. S., Naples. Call 239-252-8419 or visit https://colliermuseums.com.

a

Scan here for even more family-friendly events.

NEAPOLITANfamily • July 2022

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

239-596-6096

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

www.onceuponachildnaples.com neafamily.com

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Best Book Ever!

Is there anything better in the summer than losing yourself in another world for a few hours? We asked our youngest readers to tell us their favorite book and why they love it. Each child was entered in our contest to win a $25 Barnes & Noble gift card. Our winner is 8-month-old Artemis Eve Nowlin. Maybe she will use her prize to buy Henry the Book Eating Boy.

Kaden Dera, 10 Can Lizards Disappear

by Anita Ganeri Kaden loves reading his book because it allows him to relate when we go on nature walks and hikes.

Isabella Botticelli, 4 Fancy Nancy 5 Minute Stories

by Jane O’Connor and Robin Preiss Glasser Isabella loves this Fancy Nancy book because it’s sweet and it has a matching doll. Her favorite story in the book is “Camp Fancy,” a story about camping and making the best of it.

Emersyn Holdeman, 3 Biscuit by Alyssa Satin Capucilli and Pat Schorie My daughter absolutely loves this book. She has me read it for both naptime and bedtime.

This book belonged to her oldest brother, who is now 18.

We love this book because it is a simple story, and she follows along very well.

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Harper Treglown, 8 Wings of Fire by Tui T. Sutherland and Mike Holmes I love Wings of Fire because of the different types of dragons and how they can be emotional. They can be two types of dragons with lots of cool characteristics. I can relate to how they feel sometimes.

David Treglown, 5

Linken Nowlin, 6

Investi Gators: Ants in Our P.A.N.T.S. by John Patrick Green

Magic Tree House: The Knight at Dawn by Mary Pope Osborne, adapted by Jenny Laird

I love Investi Gators because the story talks about alligators, and they are detectives. You can’t guess what’s next! It’s funny too!

I like it because of the horse and the knight. The pictures are very colorful. It’s a good story about a brother and a sister.

NEAPOLITANfamily • July 2022

Ezra Feldman, 3

Kayla Dera, 8 Alice De Angelis, 3

Pinocchio

I love Pinocchio’s book because Pinocchio didn’t listen to Geppetto and to Blue Fairy.

Jiminy Cricket helps Pinocchio go back home and take care of Geppetto who was sick. And then Pinocchio becomes a real boy and they live happy for long time. The end.

Animal Rescue Friends by Genevieve Kote, Gina Loveless, and Meika Hashimoto Kayla loves the beautiful illustration and colors throughout the book. It’s also great for animal lovers!

Shalom Bayit: A Peaceful Home

by Linda Elovitz Marshall and Ag Jatkowska A bedtime favorite that has been with us for years. This delightful story talks about peaceful homes from birds in trees to worms underground.

Everyone feels safe and sound when they experience a peaceful home.

Kaisley Dera, 2 Brown Bear, Brown Bear, What Do You See? by Bill Martin, Jr. Kaisley is reading a childhood favorite. She calls out all of the animals and colors throughout the entire book.

Artemis Eve Nowlin, 8 months Hop on Pop by Dr. Seuss I love it because it’s so yummy!

Valentina Morris, 6 Biscuit by Alyssa Satin Capucilli and Pat Schorie

Eli Nowlin, 8

It was the first book I read!!! I love puppies, and Biscuit is so cute and loves to play. He is so friendly, like people should be.

Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire by J.K. Rowling I like this book because it’s fun, about magic, and sometimes funny stuff happens. I’ve already read three of the Harry Potter books and this one is funny because it tells about the Weasley brothers playing funny jokes.

NEAPOLITANfamily • July 2022

Hudson Nowlin, 5 Big Bad Bubble by Adam Rubin and Daniel Salmieri I like it because it’s a funny book about monsters scared of bubbles.

Nicole Sella, 7 I am Sacagawea by Brad Meltzer I like this book because it tells a story about a real woman who discovered new lands and she was very brave and strong in heart. neafamily.com

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Beat the Heat W

Not that we really need an excuse for ice cream (or frozen yogurt, gelato -- you get th Ben & Jerry’s Venetian Village, 4320 Gulf Shore Blvd. N., Naples

Dolce Mare 599 S Collier Blvd Suite 302, Marco Island

Beebe’s Ice Cream 599 S. Collier Blvd., Marco Island,

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Cesibon Gelato & Sorbet 8807 Tamiami Tr. N., Naples

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by Mo

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Cold Stone Creamery 6420 Naples Blvd., Suite 105, Naples 740 N. Collier Blvd., Unit 211, Marco Island 2311 Santa Barbara Blvd., Suite 109, Cape Coral 13711 S Tamiami Tr., Suite 7, Fort Myers 10035 Gulf Center Dr., Suite F120, Fort Myers 1028 5th St., Suite B, Fort Myers Beach Culver’s 5775 Airport Pulling Rd. N., Naples 8940 Sage Ave., Naples 5102 Tamiami Tr. E., Naples 11905 Bonita Beach Rd. S.E., Bonita Springs 10301 Corkscrew Rd., Estero 1607 Cape Coral Pkwy. E., Cape Coral 309 SW Pine Island Rd., Cape Coral Daddy Dee’s Ice Cream Parlour 13161 N Cleveland Ave., B-1, North Fort Myers Dairy Queen 1844 Tamiami Tr. N., Naples 26831 S. Tamiami Tr., #53, Bonita Springs

Gelato & Co 483 5th Ave. S., Naples Green Cone Cafe 25261 Chamber of Commerce Dr., Bonita Springs Häagen-Dazs Waterside Shops, 5455 Tamiami Tr. N., Naples Coastland Center Mall, 2002 Tamiami Tr. N., Naples Jeremiah’s Italian Ice Tarpon Bay Plaza, 2405-5 Tarpon Bay Blvd., Naples 7151 Radio Rd., Naples (coming soon) 2209 Santa Barbara Blvd., #10, Cape Coral Kilwins Mercato, 9106 Strada Pl., Suite 4100, Naples 743 Fifth Ave. S., Naples 50 Old San Carlos Blvd., Fort Myers Beach 9903 Gulf Coast Main St., Fort Myers Menchie’s Frozen Yogurt 6355 Naples Blvd., Naples 1830 Pine Island Rd., N.E., Suite 140, Cape Coral Market Square, 5100 Daniels Pkwy., Fort Myers Michoacana Ice Cream 11520 Tamiami Tr. E., Naples

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NEAPOLITANfamily • July 2022

t With a Treat

et the idea), but the icy treat becomes almost essential in Southwest Florida in July Mitch’s Cookie Dessert Bar Kings Lake Square , 4844 Davis Blvd., Naples 520 Park St., Naples Naples Gourmet Ice Cream Coconut Point, 23111 Fashion Dr., Suite 103, Estero Naples Ice Cream Shoppe 1269 Airport-Pulling Rd. S., Naples Regina’s Ice Cream Pavilion 824 5th Ave. S., Naples Rita’s Italian Ice & Frozen Custard Mission Square, 1575 Pine Ridge Rd., Naples 4666 S. Cleveland Ave., Fort Myers Royal Scoop 15 8th St., Suite D, Bonita Springs Berkshire, 7335 Radio Rd., Suite 104, Naples Pavilion, 829 Vanderbilt Beach Rd., Naples 7273 Vanderbilt Beach Rd., Naples 2307 Estero Blvd., Fort Myers Beach Scoops Ice Cream & Acai Bowls Pebblebrooke, 15215 Collier Blvd., #318, Naples Greentree, 2378 Immokalee Rd., Naples 9995 Tamiami Tr. E., Naples Stone Mountain Creamery Coconut Point, 8017 Plaza del Lago Dr., Estero

Sub Zero Nitrogen Ice Cream Galleria, 2359 Vanderbilt Beach Rd., Suite 408, Naples Sweet Annie’s Ice Cream Parlour 692 Bald Eagle Dr, Marco Island Sweet Melissa’s Ice Cream Shoppe 4445 Bonita Beach Rd., Suite 154, Bonita Springs Tipsy Udder Handcrafted Ice Cream 25261 Chamber of Commerce Rd., Bonita Springs Vampire Penguin Shaved Snow 8076 Mediterranean Dr., Estero Yogurbella Naples Mercato, 9118 Strada Pl., Naples

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27

READING

By Anna Snyder

Do You Book Club?

T

he idea of a book club is attractive to so many of us. When we consider joining (or starting) a book club, we tend to think about a future version of ourselves – a cultured, disciplined, articulate individual who shares interesting information and draws creative, original conclusions. Our future selves become so clear in our minds. How do we attain that version of ourselves? And what does an effective, successful book club look like in Southwest Florida?

When you consider the benefits of reading – the way it stimulates our brains, strengthens writing skills, improves our memory and focus, increases vocabulary, boosts our mood, lowers stress, and teaches us to think outside of our own experiences and realities – regularly engaging in the activity should be a habit for all of us; it should be muscle memory. However, when the day is done, the dishes washed, the counters wiped down, and the kids in bed, reading often is the last thing to which we’re drawn. A structured book club can provide an antidote – accountability for reading when turning on the TV and grabbing a glass of wine seems like the only way to end to a stressful day.

How does one join or start a book club? And what exactly are the markers of a successful, sustainable one? As I gathered various stories of book clubs, it became 28

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clear to me that structure and premise – while important – doesn’t seem to matter as much as perseverance and sticking to the agreed-upon structure. I also sense that book clubs work best when participants share some commonality in career, inclination, value system, etc. My friend Emily Loveall, a Bonita Springs mom of four and full-time Realtor, always seems to have read an interesting book. “I’ve joined lots of book clubs over the years, and to me, the most rewarding book clubs have been short – they’ve existed with a time limit of 6 weeks to 3 months,” Loveall said. “We’ll read portions of the book and hold each other accountable. I also like ones online (often groups hosted on Facebook’s platform) that have many participants. You can choose to read the book or not, and you get to hear various perspectives, though the accountability often isn’t as strong.”

Jennifer Johnson, owner of the luxury consignment and resale store True Fashionistas in Naples, spoke with me about her newest brain child: the Business Book Club of Naples. “I love to read and have an insatiable appetite for knowledge,” Johnson explained. “I read anything that will benefit me personally or professionally. I have been invited to book clubs in the past and never really attended. I think it’s because most of the books I enjoy are

business-focused or personal development-oriented, and many traditional book clubs focus solely on fiction. Since I could not find a business book club, I decided to start one.”

Members of the Business Book Club read a book each month, and come together to discuss the book. “It’s great to have a community of like-minded professionals to discuss ideas,” said Johnson.

My mother-in-law, Louise Snyder, a retired teacher and mom of two (including my husband), participated in a thriving book club for many years. The structure of her book club was relatively strict.

“We based our club on the premise that we’d choose and vote on books each fall outside our usual tastes and inclinations.”

The group would discuss and then vote for nine books, and reading one each month during the school year. “Our group had a variety of viewpoints in terms of faith, value systems, politics, etc., but there was a baseline of respect and a lot of humor,” added Snyder.

Sarah Naples is a voracious reader and has been a part of various book clubs throughout her adult life. “My current book club is more of a book duo,” Naples said. “We were in a book club together years ago and now live in different states.

Just before the pandemic Jessica asked if I would want to work through a book reading challenge posted by the blogger Modern Mrs Darcy. We used the provided categories and had fun with it. We tried to read books neither of us had read, and we discovered some gems and were equally embarrassed by some bad picks and thoroughly enjoyed talking through all of them.”

The following year, the challenge was less focused, and the duo moved on.

“Now, we are trying to read things that bring us joy, and sometimes it takes us a few months to get through a book,” said Naples.

“I enjoy hearing a different perspective on what I have just read. It is also challenging to read within a time frame and to think critically through what I am reading for our discussion. I like the small NEAPOLITANfamily • July 2022

nature of our discussions, but I do miss a traditional group where we meet physically and share food. In my experience, book club food is pretty great!”

Tips for starting (or joining) a book club • Stay organized. “Appoint one super organized person to keep communication going, and to maintain the structure of the club. We planned the book list way ahead of time, and held tightly to the list, which, coincidentally, helped library users who might have to wait for more popular books.” –Louise Snyder • Identify a commonality, purpose, or theme. “My first book club was formed because a bunch of very different people loved reading C.S. Lewis and wanted to discuss his works. Another group I was in trended toward books about other cultures so we could theme our meals (books and food pair so well together).

It helps to have common reading interests and see how the group evolves.” –Sarah Naples • Don’t wait to gather people together. “I would say to people who want to read more to just do it! There is no time like the present to start reading. Just think of the knowledge you can gain. Reading is life changing. Through the books I have read, I have been introduced to so many wonderful authors and business owners I would have never been in touch with if not for reading their books. If you do not find a club that suits your need, then start one. Put it out on social media, and you will be able to attract like-minded people.” –Jennifer Johnson

“If you do not find a club that suits your need, then start one. Put it out on social media, and you will be able to attract like-minded people.”

–Jennifer Johnson When I think about my own reading life, I consider how powerfully various books connected to various points in time in my life: trips, hardships, moves, emotional moments – what I was reading during that time, and how the text grounds me to that experience, whether or not it connects concretely. I love Sarah Naples’ comment: “When I read, I often view the world through a different lens and am always amazed by how relatable the human experience is. Story is powerful and can evoke such deep emotions. I have finally reached an age where I am not embarrassed to laugh out loud over a funny phrase while reading in a public park or weep unabashedly over a fictional story, so I want stories that are good and full of truth.”

Pursuing common experience and accountability through a book club is a worthy pursuit. Happy reading!

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

Three Locations to Serve You. BONITA SPRINGS

9510 Bonita Beach Rd. Ste. 101

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

Most Insurances Accepted NEAPOLITANfamily • July 2022

Contact us to schedule a visit, or explore online.

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

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Tracey Ansteth Albert

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The Most Awesome Family Guidebook on the Planet!

Looking for fun things to do with your family?

Scan here for the best family-friendly events in SWFL 30

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The all-new Second Edition is the perfect guide for visitors, local families, classrooms, homeschool groups and libraries.

Twice as many colorful photos and illustrations...more super-fun attractions and experiences...more freaky factoids and inside tips. Plus, all the websites and phone numbers you need. It’s absolutely, positively not just for kids! Available in the best bookstores, gift shops, and on amazon.com.

NEAPOLITANfamily • July 2022

NEW!

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Have you ever been face-to-face with the world’s tallest animal?

Visit Naples Zoo today to hand feed a giraffe at the newly elevated giraffe feeding experience.

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Become a member to earn FREE ADMISSION for one year and experience these Interactive Exhibits together as a family!

• Touch Tank • Invasive Species & Climate Change Galleries • Science on a Sphere • Augmented Reality Wildlife Encounter • Electric Boat Tours • Little Explorer Play Zone • Daily Talks with Live Animals

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NEAPOLITANfamily • July 2022

1 4 9 5 S m i t h P r e s e r v e Wa y , N a p l e s , F L 3 4 1 0 2 • 2 3 9 . 2 6 2 . 0 3 0 4 • w w w. c o n s e r va n c y . o r g