Sept 14 digital issue

September 2014 neafamily.com

COMPLIMENTARY

Art Draws Kids In

LOCAL ART PROGRAMS THAT ARE GREAT FOR KIDS AND THE COMMUNITY The Arts Directory

OUR PICKS FOR ART, DANCE, MUSIC AND THEATRE

Exploring The River of Grass

OUR EVERGLADES MUST SEE’S WE’RE BEGINNING A YEAR-LONG CELEBRATION OF OUR 15 YEARS!

The Arts Issue!

Catch up with our very first cover kids NEAPOLITANfamily • September 2014

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LEARNING CAN BE FUN Give your kids a head start on school this year with custom tutoring sessions at Wise Minds Tutoring Center Tutoring for Grades K-12 • Free Assessment • No Contracts Flexible Scheduling • One on One Instruction • Sibling Discount Guaranteed Grade Level Improvement

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8/21/14 5:57 PM

Enroll your Star in our award-winning Child’s Path Preschool today and receive a special discount!

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Child’s Path Preschool provides a creative and healthy learning environment for children ages 2-5. Services include kindergarten readiness, VPK and age appropriate behavioral tools that cultivate academic, social and emotional development for your young star provided by our experienced and nurturing staff.

Child’s Path’s educational philosophy is to give each child a positive experience where they can build a healthy self-esteem. Maybe that’s why our fun, hands-on approach to learning has been voted the Choice Star Award for “BEST PRESCHOOL” by the readers of Naples Daily News.

Enroll your child today to receive this special discount and start them on their path to success!

The Path to Success Begins Here!

NEAPOLITANfamily • September 2014

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ChildsPath.org 3144 Santa Barbara Blvd., Naples Monday - Friday 7:30am - 5:30pm 239-353-4144 info@childspath.org

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SEPTEMBER 2014 TABLE OF CONTENTS

Departments

05 FROM THE PUBLISHER 06 ONLINE THIS MONTH

AT NEAFAMILY.COM

07 ON THE COVER 10 REEL LIFE WITH JANE

Family Movie Reviews

22 CITY CONNECTION

City of Naples Parks Department News and Events

24 COMMUNITY EVENTS 28 CENTERFOLD CALENDAR 30 SEPTEMBER EVENTS

Community events for your family.

on

the cover…

09 Catching Up With Our Cover Models Meet Neapolitan Family’s first four cover kids.

12 Mindfully Accepting Life’s Little Hassles by Karyn Robinson-Renaud, MSW

Using mindful acceptance to deal with everyday frustrations.

14 The Good Grandparenting Guide: Grandparenting Ain’t Easy by Kerrie McLoughlin Eight tips on being the best grandparent you can.

16 The River of Grass by Andrea Breznay Five “must see’s” in the Everglades.

20 Making The Most of School Field Trips by Laura Reagan-Porros Help your child’s teacher make field trips fun and educational by preparing ahead of time as well as volunteering to help.

44 Art Programs Draw Children In

We profile four local art programs that are benefitting the participants and our community.

46 Drowning in Artwork? by Colleen Wright

Ten crafty ways to repurpose their masterpieces.

48 Give Dance A Chance by Christina Katz

The benefits of consistent dance class for your child.

52 Sofia I. Quintero is 6 years old and attends Pelican Marsh Elementary. She has two younger brothers, Nicolas (4) and Santiago (2). Sofia’s mom is a former attorney and full time mom and her dad is a physician at Naples Community Hospital. Sofia enjoys gymnastics, arts, reading and swimming.

The 2014-15 Arts Directory Our picks for art, photography, dance, music and theatre for your family.

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

www.reedorthodonticsnaples.com

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NEAPOLITANfamily • September 2014

8/23/14 10:16 AM

SALE EVENT Thursday, Oct. 9 8am-4:30pm Private Sale For Consignors

Friday, Oct. 10 2-4:30pm

Special private shopping time for First Time new and expecting parents.

Must pre-register on our website to attend.

Sat. Oct. 11 8am-4:30pm Public Sale

Held at Naples United Church of Christ 5500 Crayton Road, Naples, Florida 34103

The Sunburst Kids Consignment is HERE!

Sun b u R st K i D s

the bright way to shop

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A Seasonal Consigment Sale Event with over 10,000 new and gently used items

Priced 50-90% below retail for your newborn to tween October 9-11

Want to SAVE money and MAKE money?

Register as a consignor at NEAPOLITANfamily • September 2014

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RID THE KID CLUTTER

Log onto SUNBURSTKIDSCONSIGNMENTS.COM and register to become a consignor…

It’s as easy as 1, 2, 3!!!

www. SunburstKidsConsignments.com neafamily.com

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8/21/14 5:57 PM

online SEPTEMBER

at

NEAFAMILY.COM

Browse Our E-Magazine

Web Only Contests

This month’s web-only articles:

Read complete issues of Neapolitan Family on your desktop computer or mobile device. To access: Neafamily.com → Digital → Click on issue you’d like to read.

We offer great contests for our web readers.

To find out about our current contest: Neafamily.com → Contests.

•

Get an early start on Halloween We have costume ideas, decorating tips and party planning ideas.

Take Us Wherever You Go

Web Only Content We update our web site daily with new articles, news and local information. You’ll also find an archive of print articles as well as web-only articles with everything from travel information to crafts projects.

•

Cover Kids Contest It’s your last chance to enter our Cover Kids Contest! Plus, after September 9, you’ll be able to vote for your favorite entry!

•

Crafts and Decorating Let your inner artist loose with our crafts projects and decorating ideas.

•

Last Minute Events Events that don’t make it to our print calendar are in our online calendar– check it often because it’s updated daily.

Neapolitan Family features responsive web design, so our web pages adjust to whatever portable device you use. Access our resources, directories, publications, calendar and news updates 24/7.

E-Newsletter Neapolitan Family sends out an enewsletter every Thursday filled with fun events for the upcoming week. To sign up: Neafamily.com → click on the newsletter graphic box at the top of each page.

Updated Calendar We update the calendar frequently adding new events that come in after the print publication deadlines. Check often to see what is going on in Naples and surrounding areas. There is NOT a better calendar of events available locally.

3rd Annual Conference for Special Needs

Sept. 20, 2014 • 9:00 am - 5:00 pm

Join us for a FUN filled day of learning and sharing as we create a path for our loved ones with special needs.

Our day will include: Kid • Patricia Wright from Rethink centers fo r fun fill Keynote speaker on Inclusive Education activitie ed s • Idela Hernandez from Interpreting and too!

Application Services LLC: Navigating the government service maze • Loveland Community in Venice-Helping Adults with disabilities live their life to the fullest To purchase tickets online:

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• Osprey Village Co-housing community with creative housing options.

• Legal panel discussing topics on guardianship, trusts and long term care solutions • Breakout sessions • Community provider tables

For more info, contact Debby Lasek CFAA Director at 239-450-6060

www.eventbrite.com/e/creating-a-future-for-adults-with-autism-2014-conference-tickets-11836032893 Held at: St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church, 625 111th Ave. No., Naples, FL NEAPOLITANfamily • September 2014

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from the publisher…

the parenting magazine devoted to collier county

THIS MONTH: We begin our 15th year!

P.O. Box 110656 Naples, FL 34108 (239) 514-0338 Phone (239) 514-0339 Fax info@neafamily.com Publisher Andrea Breznay andrea@neafamily.com Assistant Publisher Stacy Nicolau snicolau@neafamily.com Copy Editor Leigh Ann Newmann Cover Photographer Peggy Farren Contributing Graphic Designer Janine Vitanza 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.

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

Neapolitan Family is ©2014 by Neapolitan Publishing Co., LLC. All rights reserved.

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

Wow, does time fly! Fifteen years ago Neapolitan Family got its start in response to my frustration at not being able to get the information I needed.

Finding dance schools, Little League sign ups and school information was almost impossible back then and I wanted a central location where parents could find interesting and useful information. And, as they say, a star was born. Throughout the years we’ve grown and added a popular website, events, a mobile app, a spin off for special needs parents and lots more.

But none of it would have been – or is – possible without our amazing readers. You guys are simply the best. You read the magazine, give us awesome feedback, patronize our advertisers and make doing my job pretty darn easy.

A HUGE thank you!

Beginning this month we’re rolling out a year-long celebration of our 15th Anniversary. Keep an eye out for special articles, events and giveaways all year. We’re starting by bringing you up to date on our first cover models (see page 9). Among them is my daughter Alex. She really was the inspiration for the magazine so it was only fitting that she appear on the first cover. We’ll catch up with more cover models over the next year!

As we usually do in September, we’re celebrating the arts. I can’t think of anything as important as art, dance, music and theatre for our kids. The arts offer the creative outlet every child needs as well as a means for expressing feelings, increased self esteem, community building and more. We checked in with four local organizations who are doing something special with their arts programs on pages 44-45. I got the idea for the article when I stopped

by Naples Christian Academy and saw their Zentangle portraits. They were so creative that I had to find out where the idea came from. The three other organizations profiled were suggested by our Facebook followers.

You’ll find lots more about the arts in this issue as well as a fun article on The Everglades. It’s one of my favorite spots to explore–you’ll find my suggestions on what to do on pages 16-18.

Have a creative September!

Andrea Breznay Publisher

NEAPOLITANfamily • September 2014

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We’re choosing 12 months of cover models for Neapolitan Family Magazine!

2014 2014

Each of our winners will appear on a cover between November 2014 and October 2015.

Plus, the staff of Neapolitan Family Magazine will choose our 12 favorites and readers will vote for the GRAND PRIZE winner!

The Grand Prize winner will win a special prize package valued at over $600 including: • $250 Gift Certificate for Cottontails Clothing Store • Portrait package from Avant Garde Photography including an 8x10 and 2 5x7’s from cover photo shoot Entry fee: $20 for one child in photo, $30 for 2 or more siblings. Finalists will be entire group if more than one child is in photo and will appear on cover together.

DEADLINE TO ENTER IS SEPT. 7!

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NEAPOLITANfamily • September 2014

8/21/14 5:58 PM

OUR 15TH ANNIVERSARY

Where Are They Now?

Catching Up With Our First Cover Models Fourteen years after our debut issue, the original cover kids are all grown up!

As Neapolitan Family enters our 15th year of publishing, we‘re planning a celebration that will last all year. We have a few special events on the calendar, contests for our readers plus we want to update you on what some of our favorite cover models are doing now.

We caught up with our very first cover “kids” recently to find out what they’ve been doing for the past 14+ years!

PAUL EBERT Paul, in 4th grade in the cover photo, graduated from Gulf Coast High School in 2009 and played golf, basketball, and tennis. He attends the University of Florida where he is majoring in Industrial and Systems Engineering with a minor in Business Administration. He will graduate in December, 2014. Hobbies in college include intramural basketball, going to football games in the Swamp and membership in Pi Kappa Alpha Fraternity. Paul just completed a summer internship at Arthrex. His immediate plans are a European trip with his girlfriend Kaitlin to celebrate graduation and finding a job as an engineer.

PHILIP EBERT Philip was in 6th grade at Oakridge Middle School when he appeared on the cover. After graduating from Gulf Coast High School in 2007, he attended the University of West Florida in Pensacola on a baseball scholarship. He played for 4 years and won the 2011 Division 2 baseball National Championship. Philip graduated with a dual degree in Elementary Education and Exceptional Education and is a 5th grade teacher at Ferry Pass Elementary School in Pensacola. Philip is a volunteer baseball coach at UWF and is working on his Masters in Educational Leadership from UWF. NEAPOLITANfamily • September 2014

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ALEX PERRIN Alex is the daughter of publisher Andrea Breznay and was a high school freshman attending Barron Collier High School in 2000. At the time of her cover appearance, Alex’s career aspiration was to be a professional dancer or an attorney. Alex chose law and she is now an attorney in San Francisco after attending college in Boston and law school in Washington, DC. She travels frequently, dances occasionally, is an accomplished potter and is training for her first half-marathon.

Alex is pictured in the photo with her boyfriend Britton and their dog, Indy.

TREVOR REED Trevor, the son of Michelle Reed, the photographer who shot the cover photo, was 3 years old when he appeared on our cover. Now 17, Trevor is a skateboarding instructor for the city of Naples at Fleischman Park, a salesman at Zumiez Auto Cross and a middle school camp counselor at Center Point Community Church.

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8/23/14 10:49 AM

REEL LIFE WITH JANE

By Jane Louise Boursaw

Family Movie & DVD Reviews N

ew on the big screen in September is a cute dolphin tale, some quirky box trolls, and a mysterious story about a maze.

Here’s a sneak peek at what’s new in theaters and on DVD and blu-ray this month.

DOLPHIN TALE 2

Rated PG for some mild thematic elements • In Theaters 9/12 Ok for Kids 8+ Reel Preview: 3.5 of 5 Reels This sequel to 2011’s “Dolphin Tale” continues the story of the brave dolphin Winter, whose miraculous rescue and recovery, thanks to a groundbreaking prosthetic tail, made her a symbol of hope and perseverance to people around the world. The story picks up several years after young Sawyer Nelson (Nathan Gamble) and the Clearwater Marine Hospital team, headed by Dr. Clay Haskett (Harry Connick, Jr.), rescued

Winter. Now her surrogate mother has passed away, but USDA regulations require that the social mammals be paired with other dolphins.

THE IDENTICAL Rated PG for thematic material and smoking • In Theaters 9/05 Ok for Kids 10+ Reel Preview: 4 of 5 Reels

THE MAZE RUNNER

THE SONG

Rated PG-13 for thematic elements and intense sequences of sci-fi violence and action • In Theaters 9/19 Ok for Kids 14+ Reel Preview: 4.5 of 5 Reels

PG-13 for thematic elements, including some substance abuse, smoking and rude references • In Theaters 9/26 Ok for Kids 14+ Reel Preview: 3 of 5 Reels

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Rated PG for action, some peril and mild rude humor In Theaters 9/26 • Ok for Kids 6+ Reel Preview: 4.5 of 5 Reels From the creators of “Coraline” and “ParaNorman” comes this cute animated movie about a community of quirky, mischievous creatures who’ve lovingly raised an orphaned boy named Eggs in the amazing cavernous home they’ve built beneath the streets of Cheesebridge.

When the town’s villain, Archibald Snatcher (Ben Kingsley), dreams up a plot to get rid of the Boxtrolls, Eggs decides to venture above ground, “into the light,” where he teams up with fabulously feisty Winnifred (Elle Fanning). Together, they devise a daring plan to save Eggs’ family.

I love my neafamily.com

THE BOXTROLLS

Identical twin brothers (both played by Blake Rayne) are separated at birth during the Great Depression. Their parents (Brian Geraghty, Amanda Crew) can’t afford to raise both, so one is adopted by a loving family. Despite their different upbringings, the boys’ shared passion for music causes their lives to unknowingly intersect as they experience a powerful and mysterious connection often felt by twins. One of the boys becomes famous rock legend Drexel Hemsley, while Ryan Wade struggles to find balance between his love for music and trying to please his evangelist father (Ray Liotta) and devoted mother (Ashley Judd), who have very different plans for his life in the ministry.

When Thomas (Dylan O’Brien) wakes up trapped in a massive maze with a group of other boys, he has no memory of the outside world CEDR 1003 NeaFamily 1-4 pg Horiz.4_Layout 1 2/18/13 9:45 AM Page 1 other than strange dreams about a mysterious

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organization known as W.C.K.D. Only by piecing together fragments of his past with clues he discovers in the maze can Thomas hope to uncover his true purpose and a way to escape. Based on the best-selling novel by James Dashner.

“The Song” follows aspiring singer-songwriter Jed King (Alan Powell) as he struggles to catch a break and escape the shadow of his father, a country music legend. After reluctantly acceptthe things he sees are not just remembered, they form a part of his soul.

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inspiring the love of learning since 1984 NEAPOLITANfamily • September 2014

8/22/14 5:51 PM

ing a gig at a local vineyard harvest festival, Jed is love-struck by the vineyard owner’s daughter, Rose (Ali Faulkner), and romance blooms. Soon after their wedding, Jed writes Rose “The Song,” which becomes a breakout hit. Thrust into a life of stardom and temptation in the form of fellow performer Shelby Bale (Caitlin Nicol-Thomas), Jed’s marriage begins to fall apart.

NEW ON DVD • BLU-RAY: DRAFT DAY Rated PG-13 for brief strong language and sexual references On DVD/Blu-ray/Digital 9/02 Ok for Kids 13+ Reel Review: 4 of 5 Reels It’s the annual NFL Draft day, and Cleveland Browns general manager Sonny Weaver (Kevin Costner) has the opportunity to rebuild his team when he trades for the number one pick.

He must decide whether to go with his gut or choose a player based on what everyone else is telling him.

THE FAULT IN OUR STARS PG-13 for thematic elements, some sexuality and brief strong language On DVD/Blu-ray/Digital 9/16 Ok for Kids 13+ Reel Review: 5 of 5 Reels Hazel (Shailene Woodley) and Gus (Ansel Elgort) are two teenagers who share an acerbic wit, a disdain for the conventional, and a love that sweeps them on a journey. Their relationship is all the more miraculous given that Hazel’s other constant companion is an oxygen tank, as the two met in a cancer support group. Josh Boone directs this romantic drama based on the book

by John Green.

BARBIE & THE SECRET DOOR Not Rated • On DVD 9/16 Ok for Kids 3+

Reel Review: 4 of 5 Reels Barbie stars as Alexa, a shy princess who discovers a secret door in her kingdom and enters a whimsical land filled with magical creatures and surprises. Inside, Alexa meets Romy and Nori, a mermaid and a fairy, who explain that a spoiled ruler named Malucia is trying to take all the magic in the land. To her surprise, Alexa has magical powers in this world, and her new friends are certain that only she can restore their magic. Discover what happens when Alexa finds the courage to stand up for what’s right and learns that the power of friendship is far more precious than magic.

THOMAS & FRIENDS: TALE OF THE BRAVE Not Rated • On DVD 9/16 Ok for kids 3+ Reel Review: 5 of 5 Reels After a monstrous storm on the Island of Sodor, a landslide unearths some very unusual footprints. Thomas and Percy are eager to find out what could have made these marks, but obstacles and danger appear around every bend in the track. With the help of new friends, a little digging, and lots of courage, they discover the surprising answer and uncover the true meaning of bravery. Extras: “Let’s Be Brave” and “Monsters Everywhere” Sing-Along Music Videos; Guess Who? Puzzles.

GODZILLA PG-13 for intense sequences of destruction, mayhem and creature violence On DVD/Blu-ray/Digital 9/16 Ok for kids 13+ Reel Review: 4.5 of 5 Reels This reboot of the Godzilla franchise retells the monster’s origin in modern times, but in a style that’s faithful to the Toho series of Godzilla films. You know the story … the world’s most famous monster, malevolent creatures, humanity’s scientific arrogance … all of which threaten

our very existence. But this is no cheesy Japanese movie. More Shakespeare than Godzilla, which is why it’s awesome. Read Jane’s review here.

THE ROOSEVELTS: AN INTIMATE HISTORY Not Rated • On DVD/Blu-ray 9/16 Ok for kids 8+ Reel Review: 5 of 5 Reels For his latest PBS project, Ken Burns brings us “The Roosevelts: An Intimate History,” which tells the story of Teddy, Eleanor and Franklin Roosevelt, stretching from Teddy’s birth in 1858 to Eleanor’s death in 1962. Prior to the DVD/Blu-ray release, the 14-hour film will debut on Sept. 14 and air for seven straight nights in two-hour bursts.

MY LITTLE PONY: THE COMPLETE SERIES Rated G • On DVD 9/30 Ok for kids 3+ Reel Review: 5 of 5 Reels Thanks to Shout! Factory, we can all return to Ponyland, home of all those classic Little Ponies, including the Earth Ponies, Unicorns, Pegasus Ponies, Flutter Ponies, Sea Ponies, Baby Sea Ponies, their human friends Megan, Danny and Molly and, of course, their dragon friend, Spike.

Together, they live a life of games, songs and harmony with allies like the Bushwoolies and Furbobs. Sure, occasionally there are problems in Ponyland, but the Little Ponies of Paradise Estate face evil witches, goblins, Stone Backs and Grundles with grace. The Complete Series includes all 65 episodes.

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.

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HAPPY, HEALTHY FAMILY

By Karyn Robinson-Renaud, MSW

Mindfully Accepting Life’s Little Hassles

L

ife is full of daily frustrations. It could be related to not getting

enough sleep because your six year old keeps crawling into your bed at night. Or maybe it’s the traffic you have to deal with everyday on your way to work. Perhaps it is related to that weird sound your minivan makes every time you are backing out of the drive way.

Some of us can shrug off these everyday irritations. Others of us have a harder time letting them go. We let little hassles build on each other so that by the end of the day we are ready to explode. A better way to cope is cultivating mindful acceptance.

I

n the Mindfulness and Acceptance Workbook for Anxiety, authors John Forsyth and George Eifort, explain that mindful acceptance is a skill that allows you to observe frustrations without becoming one with them. They explain it as “watching the struggle, without judging it or feeling the pain without drowning in it.” Forsyth and Eifort recommend bringing what they call soft qualities to bear on difficult situations. Examples of these qualities would be: gentleness, kindness, openness, patience, humor, compassion and curiosity. Using these and other soft qualities, allows you to be more level-headed and compassionate towards yourself, the situation at hand and those around you. When you are in this state you problem solve more effectively.

This in turn, helps you to be less reactive when under stress.

However, it can be hard to go from an irritated and uptight state to a more relaxed and focused one. You need to be calm in order to bring patience and humor into a typically frustrating scenario.

Amy, mother of two children under three, says that when one of her girls is melting down, she tries to think beyond

what is happening to what is underlying the situation. If she is trying to get her girls out the door and one of them has a tantrum, she will focus on whether her daughter is tired or hungry or just needs more transition time, as opposed to losing her patience and rushing her through the door. By approaching the meltdown from a compassionate place, Amy was able to stay calm and think more rationally.

Here are four simple ways to calm down, so that you can mindfully cope with everyday hassles:

1.

Deep Breathe: You have heard this advice a million times, but do you actually do it? Like any new habit you will need to practice when you are not under pressure so you can use it when it counts. Consider using an app like Med Timers to remind you to deep breathe every few hours, so that you can get in the habit of doing it daily.

You want to breathe in through your nose counting to five in your head and then breathe out slowly out of your mouth for five. The next time you are tempted to lose your patience deep breathe for five cycles

The “Happy, Healthy Family” column is spondored each month by Monarch Therapy.

For more information on Monarch, call (239) 325-9210 or check www.MonarchTherapy.com 12

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NEAPOLITANfamily • September 2014

8/23/14 10:22 AM

before taking any action. The more you practice, the easier it will be to calm yourself in tense situations.

Apps to Help You Relax Relax and Rest by Meditation Oasis Take a Break by Meditation Oasis Stress Free by Louise L. Hay

2.

Music Time: Put some calm or playful music on during times when you are normally stressed. For example, when driving through traffic or cleaning the house or making dinner. If you do not have your own playlist ready to go, consider downloading the app Songza. This app allows you to select playlists according to mood, activity, or artist.

Books to Help You be Mindful Buddhism for Mothers by Sarah Napthali The Mindfulness and Acceptance Workbook for Anxiety by John P. Forsyth PH.D. and Georg H. Eifert PH.D. Present Moment Wonderful Moment: Mindfulness Verses for Daily Living by Thich Nhat Hanh Women Who Worry Too Much by Holly Hazlett-Stevens Ph.D.

3.

Pity Party: Have a quick vent session with a friend who will allow you to unload without wallowing. If you don’t have a friend like that available, consider taking 10-20 minutes to dump your frustrations out into a journal.

Mindful Class Monarch Therapy offers a Peaceful Mind class every Thursday from 7-8:30 p.m. Four teachers rotate in facilitating the class designed to help adults and teens unwind and energize through mindfulness practice and simple use of breath, sound, humor, and relaxation exercises. Classes are $20 each or $70 for a 4 class package. Current clients pay $10 per class. No pre-registration is required. In addition, Family Yoga and Children’s Yoga is a mindful experience allowing participants to learn to incorporate into everyday activities, as they become more self-aware by tuning into their bodies and emotions while also practicing healthy coping skills. Call for next start date. For more information, call (239) 325-9210 or visit www.MonarchTherapy.com.

4.

Line up treats: Decide on a reward for yourself for getting through the day. Having something nice to look forward to after juggling responsibilities all day, can break the tension you are feeling.

Learning how to calm yourself down when you are under pressure, paves the way for you to mindfully accept frustrating situations.

Incorporating these habits into your life will take time, but it is well worth the effort since our children learn from us how to handle life’s little irritations.

KARYN ROBINSON-RENAUD MSW, RSW is a freelance writer for a variety of national and regional publications who specializes in health-related topics.

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(239) 596-2501 neafamily.com

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GRANDPARENTS

By Kerrie McLoughlin

The Good Grandparent Guide

Grandparenting Ain’t Easy T he world of grandparenting can be tricky; just try to put yourself in their shoes for a minute.

They have raised their kids already and think they did a pretty awesome job. Now their baby has had a baby and they don’t know how to act.

All of a sudden their baby, who was brought up on junk food, public school, no seat belts and television and turned out perfectly, is telling them what to do around the grandkids (no sugar, “we are going to homeschool”, “take the booster seat” and no “screen time”).

Some grandparents turn passive aggressive and do the opposite of what they are asked; some just stop showing up. If you can find a happy medium, you are doing better than most. Check out some common issues parents have with grandparents. I’m talkin’ straight at you, grandparents!

1. Don’t start a tradition you can’t finish.

You are the one who wanted to buy each grandchild a $50 Build-a-Bear workshop stuffed animal and started that tradition nice and early. I realize most people don’t go out and give birth to more than two children these days, but you’d better start padding your savings account, Mee-maw, because I have five kids currently and might have more! If you do something for one, you can bet the others are watching and are going to be bugging me about it constantly! I suggest starting cheaper traditions, like taking the kid out for an ice cream and to the dollar store every year for Valentine’s Day. 2. Don’t parent them; that’s my job. I expect you to spoil them! If I have said, “Go for it” then give them candy, let them go 14

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if you insist on dropping $50 on each birthday, how about a $10 gift and a $40 savings account donation?

on a cartoon binge and by all means buy them the entire set of Harry Potter books!

Likewise, though, if I ask you to not smoke, drink or watch Dexter around the kids, please respect that.

3. Bite your tongue. As Jen M.L. of the popular People I Want to Punch in the Throat blog says, “You had your chance to [mess] up a kid and now it’s my turn, so pipe down with all the unwanted advice.”

Michele Pfeiffer, mom of one, offers, “Don’t be a helicopter grandparent. Let the parents make the same mistakes and learn from them. We all turned out fine.”

Unless your grandchild is in serious danger, it’s best to keep your thoughts to yourself.

Share those thoughts instead with your friends at work or the community center.

4. Come to stuff! Show up! You don’t need an engraved invitation to a Little League baseball game; if I emailed you the schedule, I want you to come. If you don’t show up to any of the birthday parties because you are mad at me or too busy, that’s only hurting the relationship with your grandchild.

Let’s talk it out.

5. Take it easy on the material junk. Most kids have tons of random junk they never play with. May I suggest a lovely family gift of a zoo membership next Christmas? Or

6. Leave religion out of it. This is a loaded topic for grown adults, so don’t bring it up around your kids and grandkids. Your job is to love the grandkids and just get along and help out if you like. Asking them in private why they don’t go to church is not acceptable.

7. Nothing stays the same. Jody Kwan Jones, mom of 3, says, “Grandparents need to remember that times have changed.

They seem perfectly willing to accept the new technology that makes life easier, like nice cars, computers, fancy TVs, etc. Why then, are there endless repetitions of, ‘It was good enough for you as a baby, so it’s fine for your baby.’ Ummmm, no, I will NOT be giving my baby whiskey in a bottle to put him to sleep!”

8. Be supportive. If your grandchild is struggling with something in school or life, it’s not always your kid’s fault. Instead of blaming or saying your grandchild never acts that way around you, ask what you can do to help. Can you watch the other kids while your grandchild goes to therapy?

Come over for a while to cook or just sit and read to your grandchild? Maybe your grandchild is struggling with science and you are a Chemical Engineer. Think help instead of snark.

Kerrie McLoughlin’s 5 kids are very lucky to have 6 rockin’ grandparents who know how to strike the balance between smothering and neglect. More humor and fun at TheKerrieShow.com.

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Join our Exciting Afterschool Program!

Open to Preschool, Elementary and Middle School Students

Come in and see why more parents are choosing our after-school, pick up program!

• Daily Taekwondo Lessons • Homework assistance • Arts & crafts

• Nationally certified instructors • Pick up at various local schools • Games and activities

Give your child the gift of self esteem, confidence, persererance, self control and the meaning of respect.

Master Wilbur’s ATA Taekwondo Academy 2400 Immokalee Road, Suite 1 Naples, Florida 34109

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Call us today! 239-593-5456 NEAPOLITANfamily • September 2014

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TRAVEL

By Andrea Breznay

1.

Everglades National Park. Everglades National Park covers 1.5 million acres of South Florida and spans three counties: Monroe, Miami-Dade, and Collier. The Park protects a unique landscape that provides an important habitat for numerous animal species including the endangered manatee, American crocodile and the Florida panther. Everglades National Park is a World Heritage Site, International Biosphere Reserve, a Wetland of International Importance and a specially protected areas under the Cartagena Treaty.

The park is definitely quieter during the off-season months of April through October. There may be fewer ranger-led programs and the weather can be a little extreme but you’ll find plenty to do and see and you’ll have quieter hiking paths, no parking issues and no wait for tram rides.

The park is open 365 days a year, 24 hours a day, although some entrances are closed in the evening or seasonally. If you are visiting from Naples, you will most likely use the Gulf Coast Area entrance. The fee to enter the park is $10 per vehicle. This

A quick 45-minute drive from Naples, The Everglades are a playground for Neapolitans offering us the opportunity to play, learn and share the legacy that is “The River of Grass.” provides admission for seven consecutive days at all park entrances.

The pedestrian/cyclist fee is $5, also good for seven consecutive days. Start your visit at the Ernest Coe Visitor Center.

You’ll find Everglades orientation movies, educational exhibits and information on ranger-led programs.

Bicycling The scenic Shark Valley loop is a 15 mile round trip. Bicycling the road takes an average of two to three hours. The parking lot closes at 6:00 p.m., so be sure to allow enough time to complete the route. The ride starts behind the Visitor Center and follows the straight West Road.

What to do in Everglades Park: Hiking Hiking trails range from short and easy to long and difficult. Brochures with trail information are available for download on the website. Choose your trail carefully and be sure you are prepared with plenty of water and insect spray. Start out on the self-guided Anhinga trail. It meanders through a sawgrass marsh on an easy, paved trail. Anhinga is not open to bicycles but it is convenient for wheelchairs and strollers.

Shark Valley Observation Tower The Observation Tower at Shark Valley is located about seven miles from the Shark Valley Visitor Center on a paved path that is not open to personal automobiles. You may access it by bicycle, on foot or by riding the park’s tram tour. On a clear day, you can see for miles around and observe wildlife in the park’s swampy habitat. The tower is an excellent spot for photography.

You can stop at the tower as part of the guided tram tour. The tour is narrated by

Exploring The River of Grass Five “Must See’s” in The Everglades

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a park ranger or park naturalist. Reservations are recommended and can be made by calling 305-221-8455.

Ranger-Led Talks and Tours A variety of ranger-led events are scheduled throughout the year. If you are visiting in the off season, check the website for available events. Some talks are available only from November to April. There also are specific programs for children in different areas of the park.

Everglades National Park 815 Oyster Bar Lane.

Everglades City, FL 34139 (239) 695-3311 www.nps.gov/ever

2.

Take an Eco-Tour. You haven’t really seen the Everglades until you’ve been in a canoe or kayak winding your way through the mangrove trees. There are a variety of companies offering tours, including Everglades Area Tours. The company is an educational tour operator working in Everglades National Park as well as surrounding areas. The guides are formally trained Florida Master Naturalists and seasoned educators. The company offers everything from bicycle and walking tours to overnight camping trips.

A great place to start is with a guided kayak tour. Because kayaks are very stable, children as young as six can share a kayak with a parent and participate in paddling.

The three-hour mangrove tunnel tour usually offers glimpses of herons, egrets, stilts, ducks, wood storks, alligators and a variety of fish. You’ll be paddling through the brackish water where the Everglades transitions from freshwater to saltwater.

The dense canopy affords some shade and also provides the perfect growing environment for orchids, mosses and bromeliads.

The basic guided kayak tour is $99 for adults, $59 for children.

and experiencing the Everglades in a way few do–by walking carefully in the fragile Ecosystem with a knowledgeable guide to lead you.

The Everglades are a serene, still, beautiful place and when you’re deep within the swamp, you will see that in a way not possible when you’re looking in from the edges.

A Big Cypress Swamp Walk gives you the opportunity to experience the Everglades in the same way famed photographer Clyde Butcher does: up close and personal.

The swamp walks are 1½ hours long and are held every Saturday from October through March. Admission for adults is $50, children under 18 are $25. Participants should wear long pants, old shoes and a hat. Bug spray and a bottle of water are recommended. You will get wet, most likely to your waist, so be prepared with a complete change of clothing. The walk is relatively rigorous and you must be physically able to navigate through water and around plants, trees and rocks.

You can also do an introductory tour (45 minutes; $35 for adults, $25 for children) if you’re a little apprehensive about the longer tour. Three-hour photography tours as well as private tours are also available. You can find additional information on the website at www.clydebutchersbigcypressgallery.com.

Be sure to leave time before or after your swamp walk for a visit to Big Cypress Gallery. Clyde Butcher has been capturing the beauty of the Everglades for more than 40 years and the gallery is filled with his beautiful photographs, books and other gift items. You’ll also find that the pond right outside the gallery provides a great photo opportunity with a variety of plants

and trees and alligators sunning themselves along the banks. To see even more gators, cross the highway and you’ll see hundreds along the canal. Please note: the highway is very busy so watch children carefully!

Big Cypress Gallery Hwy 41 Tamiami Trail, Ochopee, FL (239) 695-2428 www.clydebutcher.com

4.

Visit Everglades City. You won’t find Naples traffic jams, highrise buildings or mall shopping in Everglades City! What you will find is a tiny town with fewer than 500 full time residents and an abundance of quirky charm.

Barron Collier and his company purchased the land in and around Everglades City in 1923. The town quickly became a busy industrial company town as the Tamiami Trail was built. Once the county seat for Collier, Everglades City is known as the “Gateway to the 10,000 Islands.”

Currently, most of Everglade City’s residents work either in the fishing industry or as guides. From October to May, stone crabs are the main harvest but you’ll find a variety of fresh fish throughout the year at local restaurants and markets.

Start your Everglades City outing with a visit to The Museum of the Everglades. It is located just off the circle in the center of town and offers education programs, events and presentations all year. The museum’s permanent exhibits provide a look at more than 2,000 years of area history. The museum is open Tuesday through Saturday from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. and a donation of $2 is suggested. The museum is located at 105 West Broadway, Everglades City,

Everglades Area Tours 238 Mamie St, Chokoloskee, FL 34138 (239) 695-3633 www.evergladesareatours.com

3.

Big Cypress Swamp Walk. Imagine walking through waist-high water among beautiful orchids, ferns and ancient trees. You’ll be hearing mysterious sounds NEAPOLITANfamily • September 2014

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(239) 659-2003.

For a traditional Everglades City experience have lunch at the Rod & Gun Club. The club was built originally by the first permanent settler to Everglades City and purchased by Barron Collier in 1922.

The current owners, The Bowen Family, purchased it in 1972. The Club is still dark wood paneled with mounted animal trophies and a large screened porch running the length of the back. Adventurous diners can choose frog’s legs or gator but traditional sandwiches and salads are certainly plentiful.

Another good lunch option is Camellia Street Grille. This casual waterfront restaurant offers Southern, Cuban and Caribbean inspired food in a laid-back atmosphere.

A plus: vegetarian and vegan options are available. (202 Camilla Street, Everglades City, 239-695-2003).

Wrap up your day in Everglades City with a walk on the boardwalk and then an airboat ride with Everglades City Boardwalk. They’ve been in business since 1984 and are one of the few original airboat operators in the Everglades. The one-hour tour through the mangroves is $39.99 for adults and $24.99 for children.

Check www.evergladesboardwalk.com for information.

5.

Visit Ted Smallwood’s Store in Chokoloskee. At the historic Ted Smallwood’s store you will learn about the Everglades pioneers: the Calusa Indians who lived in the area until the mid-1700s, the Seminole Indians who were the last native people to call the Everglades home, and the white settlers who began to inhabit the area at the end of the 19th century. The

first non-natives were plume, hide and fur hunters who made their living by combining fishing, hunting and farming.

As the area became more inhabited the need for goods and mail grew. Ted Smallwood established the store in 1906 on the shores of the Chokoloskee Bay to serve as a trading center. The store remained open until 1982. When the store closed, 90% of the original goods remained in the store and in 1990 it was reopened by Ted’s family as a museum.

In 2004, the adjacent land was purchased by a company in Sebring, Florida, with the intention of development. In 2011, they found a loophole in the law and bulldozed Mamie Street, the road leading to Smallwood’s—and the first road built on the island—cutting off access. The store remained closed for six months until the Collier County Commission intervened and a county judge issued an order requiring the company to repair the road until the legalities are settled. Ted’s ancestors hope to continue the fight but to keep the store open they may need to build their own access road—an expensive and difficult solution.

While the fight rages on, the store remains open seven days a week. From December through May it is open 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.; from May through November, it is open from 11 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. In addition to the artifacts from the original store, you will find a gift shop with authentic Indian crafts, artwork and photography.

Ted Smallwood’s Store 360 Mamie St, Chokoloskee, FL 34138 www.smallwoodstore.com

To learn more about the Everglades: The Swamp: The Everglades, Florida, and the Politics of Paradise by Michael Grunwald The Swamp is the story of the destruction and possible resurrection of the Everglades, the saga of man’s abuse of nature in southern Florida and his unprecedented efforts to make amends. (from amazon.com) Tales of Old Florida by Frank Oppel Here is a collection of original articles and stories of the old Florida, of hunters and Indians, the development of the sportsman’s paradise, the vast canvas of nature prior to the coming of the condominium. Illustrated with rare drawings, photographs and engravings, this book will recreate a paradise that can never be again. (from amazon.com) The Everglades: River of Grass by Marjory Stoneman Douglas Before 1947, when Marjory Stoneman Douglas named the Everglades a “”river of grass,”” most people considered the area worthless. She brought the world’s attention to the need to preserve the Everglades. (from amazon.com) Shadow Country by Peter Matthiessen Peter Matthiessen’s great American epic– Killing Mister Watson, Lost Man’s River, and Bone by Bone–was conceived as one vast mysterious novel, but because of its length it was originally broken up into three books.

In this new rendering, Matthiessen has cut nearly a third of the overall text and collapsed the time frame while deepening the insights and motivations of his characters with brilliant rewriting throughout. Inspired by a near-mythic event of the wild Florida frontier at the turn of the twentieth century, Shadow Country reimagines the legend of the inspired Everglades sugar planter and notorious outlaw E. J. Watson. (from amazon.com)

Growing, Caring and Sharing Weekday Preschool and Kindergarten Low student ratio Weekly music and chapel programs Full or part time classes for ages 2 and up Extended morning and afternoon care 1225 Piper Blvd., Naples FL 34110 239-594-9557 www.vpcnaples.org/preschool 18

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Great Classes, Theater Programs & Entertainment for Youth & Families at the Centers for the Arts Bonita Springs Family Enter tainment “Darwin the Dinosaur” October 18

Fall Classes

Art, Theater, Dance & Music

Youth Theater Auditions Charlotte’s Web S eptember 3 & 4, 5-7pm • 239-495-8989 F R E E Y O U T H T H E AT E R P R O G R A M Call 239-495-8989 to reserve a time between 4-7pm

Auditions are Open to actors ages 10 and up and include singing, dancing and acting. Please prepare 16 bars of a song to sing with or without musical backing, MP3 or CD preferred, no vocal backing please.

Any song will do including happy birthday. Actors learn a short dance routine with a group of 5 or more and are paired with other actors to read from the script. Please wear clothes you can move in comfortably (no flip flops or sandals.) Most of all come to have fun!

Rehearsals: September 10-November 13, 2014; 5:00-7:00pm (Monday, Wednesday & Friday)

Shows: November 14-16, 2014

Center for Performing Arts Bonita Springs 10150 Bonita Beach Road • Bonita Springs • FL 34135

www.artcenterbonita.org

239 • 495 • 8989

Sponsored by:

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BACK TO SCHOOL

By Laura Reagan-Porras

Making the Most of School Field Trips

Parents Can Make A Difference

T

eachers affirm that a well-planned school field trip make topics of study come alive by helping them associate concepts learned in the classroom with real world applications.

Students retain information on the subject as a result of field trips and they demonstrate a greater interest in learning more in-depth study on their own.

There are good academic reasons to take field trips and important social ones also. Parents have a vital role to play. Parents can help enhance learning outcomes, address related safety issues and ensure the fun!

Field Trip Fact Finding: Parents Can Boost Learning Outcomes Ask your child the following: • Why are you going on this field trip?

• What have you been studying in school that relates to the field trip?

• What do you expect to see on the field trip?

• I know you will have an assignment to do after the field trip. How will you remember what information you need for your report or project?

Field Trip Safety Issues: Parents Can Beef Up Security Safety concerns may arise on field trips but preparation can minimize potential

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problems. Increased adult to child ratios can also minimize safety issues. Therefore, volunteer to chaperone for field trips! If you can’t volunteer there are some things you can do to help keep your child safe on field trips.

• Make sure your child knows their contact information, (phone numbers, addresses, where parents work) • Emphasize to your child how important it is that they stay with their group.

• Wash their school shirt ahead of time so your child is wearing the same color as their group.

• In a calm manner, prepare your child for what to do if they are separated from their group. You may want to make several suggestions, like return to the zoo entrance or ticket office and ask that an adult page your teacher over the loud speaker or tell your child to look for a uniformed security guard or museum docent to ask for help in locating the class.

• Remind your child to go to the restroom with a buddy or small group.

• Carry a first aid kit.

Field Trip Fun: Parents Can Boost the Fun Factor As Cool Chaperones The following are a few suggestions to help boost the fun factor on field trips and avoid behavior issues by keeping students engaged. Parents can also help create social learning opportunities.

• Use name tags so new parent chaperones learn student’s names quickly.

• Have the kids think up nicknames for the parents for their chaperone nametags.

• Chaperones can ask students what they think they will see when they arrive at their field trip location, while students are riding on the bus.

• Sing songs on the bus drive to the field trip location.

• Give your child an old fashion disposable camera to take their own OUR READERS FAVORITE FIELD TRIPS: • Conservancy of SW Florida • Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary • Rookery Bay • Naples Botanical Gardens • Naples Philharmonic Orchestra

photos on the field trip.

Talk to students throughout the field trip about what their favorite part is.

On the bus drive back to school, play a sequence game about what students saw first, second, third and finally, last on the field trip.

Remember to catch students being good and affirm random acts of kindness that you see.

Be sure to pick up your child from school on time, especially on field trip day and get ready to hear all the good things they learned.

• •

• •

LAURA REAGAN-PORRAS is a parenting journalist and family sociologist with two daughters who love field trips!

• • • • •

Sun N Fun Lagoon Collier Landfill & Recycling Center Palm Cottage Collier County Museum Big Cypress National Preserve

Collier County Parks & Recreation Fall Programs After School • Camps • VPK • Flag Football • Youth Soccer • Cheerleading Youth & Teen Basketball • One Touch Soccer • Arts & Music • Education • Dance Fitness • Special Needs • Extreme & Water Sports • Social • Special Events Scan to get collierparks.com on your mobile phone.

Download a free reader at ScanLife.com 15000 Livingston Rd. • Naples, FL • 34109 • 239-252-4000 • www.collierparks.com NEAPOLITANfamily • September 2014

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CITY CONNECTION PARKS DEPT. By Laura Tichy-Smith

S

Still Time for Fun in the Sun

chool may have started but there is still time for fun at these events offered by the City of Naples Community Services Department and other local institutions.

dynamic music! Food and beverages available for purchase from the hotel. Overflow parking at Lowdermilk Park. For more information, call (239) 435-4345. (851 Gulf Shore Blvd. North, Naples)

Free National Museum Day Come to the Naples Depot Museum to celebrate the Smithsonian Institution’s National Museum Day. Special activities will include face painting, carriage rides, miniature railroad rides, rock-climbing wall and vintage cars. Sponsored by the Friends of the Collier County Museums. Saturday, Sept. 27 from 11 a.m. — 2 p.m. For more information, call (239) 262-6525. (1051 5th Ave. South, Naples)

Come On In, The Water’s Free!

The new River Park Aquatic Center is open.

Featuring fun for everyone from tiny tot to serious swimmer, pool admission is free to residents of Collier County. The kids will love the beach-like shallow end with play fountains, dump buckets and water slide, while the grownups will enjoy the lap swimming exercise lanes and sunbathing deck.

Parents will rest assured their children are in good hands with the Red Cross certified lifeguards on watchful duty. Current hours are Monday – Saturday 10 a.m. — 6 p.m. and Sunday 12 — 5 p.m. For information, call 239-213-3040. (451 11th St. North, Naples)

Free Summer Jazz Concert Join the tradition of the once-a-month summer lawn parties the whole city loves as the Naples Beach Club Hotel hosts its Summer Jazz Series from 6:30-9:30 p.m. on Saturday, Sept. 13. You can bring folding chairs for your family, but you likely won’t be sitting much as you boogie to the

Afterschool Solutions The Adventures and Gymnastics Club at Fleischmann Park offers great fun with

many activity choices for your child at this afterschool club 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 -- Friday 2:45-6 p.m. (also open on all early release days). Call to 248-6122 for prices, dates and registration (inquire for partial week rates). (1600 Fleishmann Blvd., 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, ballet, soccer, baseball, golf, tennis, martial arts, flag football, cheerleading, modeling and charm. Adult offerings include line dancing, tap dance, GiGi Rocky Gong, Zumba, folk dance, belly dance, Irish dance, dog obedience, fitness boot camp, softball, flag football, ultimate Frisbee, racquetball, and table tennis. Call (239) 213-3020 for prices, dates and registration.

(1600 Fleishmann Blvd., Naples)

THERE ARE FUN EVENTS FOR YOUR FAMILY ALL DURING THE MONTH OF SEPTEMBER 22

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YOUR COMMUNITY NEWS

Temple Shalom Preschool

National Public Lands Day

C

onsider that one-third of the land in America is ours–public land where we can all hike, bike, climb, swim, explore, picnic or just plain relax. There’s a special joy in getting our hands dirty when it helps keep our land beautiful. National Public Lands Day is an opportunity to spruce up these lands while helping us get back to some of the places we love.

On September 27th, thousands of volunteers around the nation will build trails and bridges, pull invasive weeds, plant trees, remove trash and have fun getting back to nature. They’ll learn about the human impact on parks and lands as well as take part in a service endeavor fed with the energy of volunteers in all 50 states, the District of Columbia and U.S. territories. Join the thousands who will take part in the 21st Annual National Public Lands Day and help do your part for America’s lands at Lovers Key State Park.

Friends of Lovers Key, Inc will be hosting this event Saturday September 27th from 9am -12pm. Join Lovers Key State Park rangers and volunteers to help maintain the park’s trails, remove exotic invasive species of plants, and pick up litter along the trails to help ensure Lovers Key is a wonderful place to visit and remains excellent habitat for the diversity of wildlife which inhabits the park.

Volunteers must wear closed toed shoes. Refillable water bottles, sunscreen, hats, gloves and bug repellent are highly recommended.

Pre-registration for this event is required. To register, contact the Ranger Station at (239) 463-4588.

Planting the Seeds in the Minds of our Future Exceptional Education for ages 2 - 5

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Naples, FL 34119

Florida Karate Center Presents

Naples ORIGINAL After-School Martial Arts Program Kind & Friendly Servi Most reasona ce. ble Prices in Naple s!

Those Were The Days at Broadway Palm

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roadway Palm opens its 22nd Season with Those Were The Days playing September 4 through October 4, 2014. This entertaining musical comedy revue will take you back in time to the 40s, 50s, 60s and 70s. Broadway Palm is offering a “Season Opener Special” and all tickets are just $45 for dinner and the show.

Performances are Wednesday through Sunday evenings with selected matinees. Broadway Palm is offering a “Season Opener Special” and all tickets are just $45 for dinner and the show. Tickets are now on sale and can be reserved by calling (239) 278-4422, by visiting www.BroadwayPalm.com or by stopping by the box office at 1380 Colonial Boulevard in Fort Myers.

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Offering: • Full Day Summer Camp with Field Trips until 8/15/14 • Naples First and Best After School Martial Arts Program with Free pick up from local schools • Total sports development and fitness training • Safe, professional & productive environment • Adult Karate & Jui-Jitsu • Awesome Birthday Parties Naples Senior Wado Karate Instructor • Family & Corporate Discounts ples years in Na Celebrating 30

form FREE Unin with Sig up New Expires 9/30/14 •

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254-0060

Florida Karate Center Naples Most Trusted Martial Arts Center

6634 Willow Park Dr #200, Naples, FL 34109 • www.floridakaratecenter.com

Teaching the Naples Community with Integrity Since 1983

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YOUR COMMUNITY NEWS

Junior Ranger Program: Celebrate Literacy Month!

Naples Philharmonic Youth Chorus Auditions For Ages 7-18

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T

et’s head outside and discover the wonders of Lovers Key State Park! Join a park ranger for a reading of Verdi by Janell Cannon, a wonderful story to celebrate literacy month about a little yellow python snake that doesn’t want to grow big and green like the others. The story will be followed by a fun outdoor activity to discover more about snakes, and kids will leave the park with an environmentally friendly craft created with a park ranger. After the program, participants can begin their journey to become a Florida State Park Junior Ranger through fun self-led activities.

This program is appropriate for children ages 4-12.

Can’t make it to the program, but want to become a Florida Park Service Junior Ranger? Junior Ranger Kits are available at the Ranger Station during park hours. Lovers Key State Park is located at 8700 Estero Boulevard, Fort Myers Beach.

Pre-registration for this event is required, spaces are limited. To register, call the Ranger Station at (239) 463-4588.

he Naples Philharmonic Youth Chorus, which performs alongside the Naples Philharmonic, will hold auditions on Monday, September 8 for the 2014-15 season. Auditions are open to Collier and Lee county students between the ages of 7 and 18.

Those wishing to audition should prepare a song of their choosing no longer than two minutes that showcases their vocal talents.

All auditions must be with piano accompaniment, not to recorded music or a cappella, and singers are asked to provide a copy for the Naples Philharmonic piano accompanist. Applicants will be asked to match pitch and, depending on their musical background, may be asked to sight-read.

Auditions will be held in the Daniels Pavilion at Artis–Naples, located at 5833 Pelican Bay Boulevard, Naples (on the west side of the campus).

Under the direction of James Cochran, the Youth Chorus rehearses at Artis—Naples, Monday evenings from 5-7:15pm.

Rehearsals begin September 15.

Annual tuition for the Naples Philharmonic Youth Chorus is $125. The one-time music fee is $25. Scholarships and payment plans are available.

To request an audition time, please email youthchorus@ artisnaples.org.

Ages 18 months to 5 years old Hours: 9am-3pm | Extended hours available Two, three, four and five day programs. Full and half day availability.

Celebrating children’s creativity through performing arts, visual arts, culinary arts, and music, encouraging healthy physical exercise and yoga.

Nurturing the values of compassion, respect, tolerance, friendship, community responsibility and character development.

Professional, dedicated and loving teachers.

Brand new state-of-the-art facility, playground and security system.

Promoting school readiness in literacy, the sciences, and mathematics.

Proud to be the only certified Eco-Healthy preschool in Naples. provider

voted #1 childcare three years in a row!!

For more info call 263-2620 or email naplespreschoolofthearts@gmail.com www.naplespreschoolofthearts.com License #C20CO0076

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NEAPOLITANfamily • September 2014

8/23/14 11:31 AM

YOUR COMMUNITY ADVERTISER NEWS

Milestones Learning Center Opens

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ilestones Learning Center is located at 19850 Breckenridge Drive in Estero, just north of Estero Parkway off US 41 in the Gulf Professional Center. The free standing 7500 sq. ft. facility has 9 classrooms and can serve up to 97 children. Milestones offers full-time, part-time and half day childcare and preschool program for ages 8 weeks to 5 years old.

Services include full-time care from 7 a.m. to 630 p.m., part-time (3 days a week that you pick), and half day care. Milestones offers small class sizes, accepts VPK and school readiness and has extracurricular activities such as yoga, dance and gymnastics.

For more information call (239) 301-2962 or check www.milestones-estero.com.

Every Step of the Way: Mother/Daughter Conference September 13

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mother/daughter conference for girls age 5-18 will be held September 13 at New Hope Event Center from 9am – 4:30pm. “Every Step of the Way” includes guest speakers in session by age, followed by a luncheon and then an afternoon of events including a fashion show emceed by Krista Fogelsong, vendors, prizes and a performance by Casey Weston.

This Mother-Daughter Day will be filled with events to help mothers understand their daughter’s challenges and learn how to recognize warning signs and will also be about having fun and teaching girls how to work together. It will empower not only the young girls, but also their mothers to become stronger and more aware of issues that are prevalent in today’s society, such as in school and in social media.

For more information call (239) 271-7497 or email info@strongermotherdaughter. com. You can find the conference info on the web at: strongermotherdaughter.com.

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Sunburst Kids Consignment Sale Coming To Naples

S

unburst Kids Consignment Sale is a seasonal consignment sale event with over 10,000 new and gently used items all priced at 50-90% below retail.

If you have items you’d like to sell, you can register as a consignor at www.

SunburstKidsConsigments.com.

The sale will be held October 9-11 at Naples United Church of Christ, 5500 Crayton Road in Naples.

For more information check www. sunburstkidsconsignments.com.

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YOUR COMMUNITY ADVERTISER NEWS

Twinkle Twinkle Little Store Gives Back To The Community

Tiger-Rock Martial Arts Empowers Local Students

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T

winkle Twinkle Little Store is more than just a local consignment store where you can get a great buy on children’s clothing, toys or furniture. Owner Cheryl Courson and her staff have donated over $250,000 in-kind goods to local charities such as Helps Outreach, Grace Center Foundation, Sunlight Home, Kids to Kids, Hope for Haiti, Children’s Advocacy Center, Collier Pregnancy Center, and many more.

Twinkle Twinkle also gives many individuals the opportunity to provide for their expanding families. Through the volunteer Twinkle Co-Op program over 380 families have been assisted in getting the baby gear, accessories, clothing and toys they needed for their growing children and families. With the Twinkle Co-Op program, volunteers may help out in ther store in exchange for $8/ hour in-store credit which they can then use to get anything they want in our store. In addition, employees are able to bring their children to work with them saving on childcare and creating a true family atmosphere.

Twinkle Twinkle has paid out over half a million dollars ($650,000) to thousands of families in the community for their gently used things.

For more information check the store website at www.twinkletwinklelittlestoreofnaples.com or call (239) 262-5904.

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he mission of Tiger-Rock is to empower students by enriching their personal, artistic, and professional lives through Tiger-Rock training. While providing students with the various benefits resulting from training, Tiger-Rock believes the highest purpose of the programs is to prepare students for the responsibilities of citizenship. Tiger-Rock programs are about real and powerful experiences, resulting in the discovery of innate capabilities and a heightened sense of responsibility. To that end, students are encouraged to use their knowledge to improve our communities through one act of leadership, public service, and mentoring at a time.

Tiger-Rock Martial Arts offers a variety of adult and youth programs to ensure that every participoant gets the best experience.

New students can enroll now for just $88 for 8 weeks. Plus, new enrollees will receive a free training t-shirt.Tiger-Rock Martial Arts is located at 1575 Pine Ridge Road, #12, Naples. Call (239) 596-2501 for additional information.

NEAPOLITANfamily • September 2014

8/23/14 11:32 AM

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239.596.5200 maidpro.com Servicing Marco Island, Naples, Bonita Springs and Fort Myers Area

NEAPOLITANfamily • September 2014

September 2014.indd 27

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YOUR COMMUNITY SEPTEMBER EVENTS CALENDAR SUBMISSIONS: To submit your event for both our online and print calendars go to www. neafamily.com and follow the instructions for setting up a calendar account and inputting event information.

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

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1 Monday

2 Tuesday

9:00 AM. Free Child Admission to Zoo with Paid Adult Online Offer. Runs throughout Labor Day Weekend. Naples Zoo, 1590 Goodlette-Frank Road, Naples.

239-262-5409. www.caribbeangardens.com.

10:00 AM. Labor Day Sidewalk Sale.

Ready, Set, Shop. Enjoy Labor Day with amazing savings at The Village on Venetian Bay’s four-day-long sidewalk sale. Up to 75% off at selected stores. Enjoy the waterfront setting as you stroll through the outdoor tables adorned with top-qualitmerchandise at discounted prices. 4200 Gulf Shore Blvd North, Naples. 239-261-6100. www.venetianvillage.com.

10:00 AM. Storytime and Crafts. Join us every Monday morning at Whole Foods for storytime and crafts for the little ones. Just drop in and enjoy a few stories and crafts and meet up with other moms. 2355 Vanderbilt Beach Road, Suite 150, Naples. 239-5525100. www.wholefoodsmarket.com/stores/ naples

9:00 AM. September Florida Resident Offer at the Zoo. Online ticket offer for 50% off admission at Naples Zoo for Florida residents. Proof of residency and ticket required.

Online tickets will be posted during valid dates in September. 1590 Goodlette-Frank Road, Naples. 239-262-5409. www.caribbeangardens.com.

10:00 AM. Moms and Tots Storytime with Miss Jessica and Miss Felicia. 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. Held at Barnes & Noble, 5377 Tamiami Trail North, Naples. 239-597-2040. www.bn.com.

1:15 PM. Little Learners. A 15-minute program designed with your little one in mind including interactive activities, music, movement and storytime. Open to ages 2-4 at Golisano Children’s Museum, 5080 Livingston Road, Naples. 239-514-0084. www. cmon.org. Held every Tuesday.

5:00 PM. KIDding Around at Bell Tower

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Shops. Tuesdays from 5-7p are a fun-filled evening of kid-friendly activities full of exploration, discovery, creativity and fun with local organizations and groups. Free. Daniels Pkwy and US 41, Fort Myers.

239-489-1221. www.thebelltowershops.com. Held every Tuesday.

7:00 PM. Ultimate Frisbee at Immokalee Sports Park. Ultimate Frisbee is a limited contact team field sport played with a Frisbee. Held Tuesdays through October 28. $50. 505 Escambia Street, Immokalee.

239-657-1951.

3 Wednesday 10:00 AM. Free Kids Crafts at Miromar Outlets. Kids from toddlers to twelve are invited to participate in free fun activities. 10801 Corkscrew Rd, Estero. 239-948-3766. www.miromaroutlets.com.

Held weekly on Wednesday.

10:00 AM. Family Story Time at South Regional Library. This program is for the whole family and lasts about 30 minutes. Registration is required.. 21100 Three Oaks Pkwy, Naples. 239- 479-INFO (4636). Held weekly on Wednesday.

10:30 AM. Family Story Time at Bonita Springs Library. This program is for the whole family and lasts about 30 minutes.. 26876 Pine Avenue, Bonita Springs. 239-992-0101. library.lee-county.com/ services/locations/BN/pages/default.aspx. Held weekly on Wednesday.

1:15 PM. Little Learners. A 15-minute program designed with your little one in mind including interactive activities, music, movement and storytime. Open to ages 2-4 at Golisano Children’s Museum, 5080 Livingston Road, Naples. 239-514-0084. www.cmon.org. Held weekly on Wednesday.

4 Thursday Call for time. Those Were the Days. Held through October 4.

Hilarious musical revue featuring the greatest hits from the 40’s 50’s, 60’s and 70’s. Songs include The Twist, It’s My Party, Only You, Saturday Night Fever, At The Hop, In The Mood and many more.

Broadway Palm Dinner Theatre, 1380 Colonial Blvd, Fort Myers.

239-278-4422. www.BroadwayPalm.com.

9:00 AM. National Wildlife Day BOGO at Rookery Bay. In celebration of National Wildlife Day, the Rookery Bay Environmental Learning Center offers “buy one, get one free admission.” Cannot be combined with other offers. Must pay at door, no registration necessary. 300 Tower Road, Naples. 239- 417-6310. www.rookerybay.org.

10:00 AM. Family Story Time at South Regional Library. This program is for the whole family and lasts about 30 minutes. Registration is required. 21100 Three Oaks Pkwy, Naples. 239- 479-INFO (4636). Held weekly on Thursday.

1:15 PM. Little Learners. A 15-minute program designed with your little one in mind including interactive activities, music, movement and storytime. Open to ages 2-4 at Golisano Children’s Museum, 5080 Livingston Road, Naples. 239-514-0084. www.cmon.org. Held weekly on Thursday.

5:00 PM. Whole Foods Block Party. Join us for free samples at our weekly storewide block party. Be sure to vote for your favorite recipe for a chance to win a $25.00 Whole Foods Market gift card. Drop off your completed ballot at Customer Service. 9101 Strada Place, Naples.

239-552-5100. www.wholefoodsmarket.com/stores/naples.

6:00 PM. Alla Prima, Alla Fun. Learn to create an artwork in one NEAPOLITANfamily • September 2014

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St. Elizabeth Seton Catholic School

Making a World of Difference … One Child at a Time PreK–3 thru 8th Grade • Consistently exceeding national education standards • Fully certified teachers who teach to the student, not to a test • Full classroom curriculum for all grade levels • Religious values and traditions

• iPads for 5th – 8th graders; state of the art technology throughout the school • Specialized instructors for Band/Chorus, Art, Spanish, health and PE, for all grades • Enrichment and Resource programs • Full athletic program offering competitive variety and junior varsity teams

2730 53rd Terrace, SW Naples FL 34116 239-455-2262 saintelizabethseton.com Registration for 2014-15 school year now open • Call for tour before classes fill up!

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 • www.smallworldnaples.com

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setting and have fun with friends at the same time. At Alla Prima, Alla Fun, painter Patty Kane will walk guests step-by-step through the creative process. Join friends for pizza, wine and art. Since Alla Prima is a style of completing an artwork in one session, guests will have a masterpiece to take home with them at the end of the evening. The evening includes art supplies, aprons, wine, pizza and guidance. 26100 Old 41 Road, Naples. 239-495-8989. artcenterbonita.org.

7:00 PM. Back to School Twitter Chat with Whole Foods. Summer vacation is officially over and the kids have gone back to school. Join us for an online discussion to share ideas for simple and nutritious breakfasts, sack lunches worth keeping and delicious suppers that are managable on a tight weekday schedule. Follow #WFMdish to join the conversation from 6:00 pm - 7:00 pm CST. 7:00 PM. Peaceful Mind. Relax, Release, and Reset with mental and emotional balance. Unwind and energize through simple use of breath, sound, humor, and relaxation exercises. Open to adults and teens.

Wear comfortable clothes. Bring yoga mat and blanket for comfort.

Monarch Therapy, 4500 Executive Drive, Naples. 239-325-9210. www.monarchtherapy.com.

5 Friday

www.goodcheck.com 4529 Executive Drive, Suite 101, Naples, FL 34119

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10:00 AM. English Cafe. Practice your English with English Cafe, a free, conversation session for adult ESOL and ESL students. Each 90-minute session provides adult learners an opportunity to practice speaking English with native speakers. Participants may start at any time. Advanced registration is not necessary. 26820 Old 41 Road, Bonita Springs. Call 239-676-5202 to confirm the schedule. Held weekly on Friday.

10:00 AM. Fresh Food Fridays. Come out to the new SW Florida Performing Arts Center at the corner of Bonita Beach Rd. and Imperial Blvd. every Friday for Fresh Food Fridays. This is a weekly Farmers Market. Every third Friday features fresh hot and cold foods to go and chef demos. 11515 Bonita Beach Road, Bonita Springs. 239-389-6901. www.swflperformingartscenter.com. Held weekly on Friday.

1:15 PM. Little Learners. A 15-minute program designed with your little one in mind including interactive activities, music, movement and storytime. Every Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday for ages 2-4. 15080 Livingston Road, Naples. 239-514-0084. www.cmon. org. Held weekly on Friday.

6:00 PM. Wine Tasting & Live Music. Join us the first Friday of every month in the cafe and Lifestyle Center for wine-tasting and live music. This month enjoy over 25 wines from around the world.

Proceeds benefit a local charity. Payment is accepted in the cafe, upon arrival. Whole Foods, 9101 Strada Place, Naples. 239-552-5100. www. wholefoodsmarket.com/stores/naples.

6:00 PM. Fifth Grade Dance at East Naples Community Park. Pizza and soda served. Tickets will be sold 2 weeks prior to dance or at the door. Contact 793-4414 for more information. $10. 3500 Thomasson Drive, Naples. 239-252-4414. colliergov.net.

6:30 PM. Girl Scout Troop Building Night. Held at Sea Gate Elementary. Visit www.gsgcf.org for additional information.

6 Saturday 7:30 AM. Third Street South Farmer’s Market. Parking lot behind Tommy Bahama’s. ThirdStreet, Naples. 239-434-6533. Held weekly NEAPOLITANfamily • September 2014

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on Saturday.

8:00 AM. Farmer’s Market. Open every Saturday (June to October) Indoors at the Shoppes at Vanderbilt unit 190-196. 2355 Vanderbilt Beach Road, Naples. 239-273-2350. https://www.facebook.com/ pages/Shoppes-at-Vanderbilt-Farmers-Market/130258607139935.

Held weekly on Saturday.

9:00 AM. Free Zoo Admission for Collier County residents. On the first Saturday of every month, 12 times a year, Collier County residents receive free zoo admission all day long. Enter any time, all day long up until 4 p.m. with no coupon required - just proof of residency for all adults . 1590 Goodlette-Frank Road, Naples. 239-262-5409. www. caribbeangardens.com.

9:00 AM. Free Kids Workshop - The Wizard of Oz . Come to the Home Depot (1651 Airport Pulling Rd & Davis Blvd, Naples) and celebrate the 75th Anniversary of The Wizard of Oz with a FREE Kids Workshop and Home Improvement Expo. The children will be building a Wizard of Oz birdhouse complete with witch’s stockinged feet sticking out underneath. 1651 S Airport Pulling Rd, Naples.

239-793-2203 ext 420 10:00 AM. Junior Ranger Program at Lovers Key State Park. Let’s head outside and discover the wonders of Lovers Key State Park. Join a park ranger for a reading of Verdi by Janell Cannon, a wonderful story to celebrate literacy month about a little yellow python snake that doesn’t want to grow big and green like the others. The story will be followed by a fun outdoor activity to discover more about snakes, and kids will leave the park with an environmentally friendly craft created with a park ranger. After the program, participants can begin their journey to become a Florida State Park Junior Ranger through fun self-led activities. This program is appropriate for children ages 4-12. 8700 Estero Blvd, Naples. 239-463-4588.

11:00 AM. Grandparents’ Storytime at Barnes & Noble. Grandparents’ Storytime, featuring How to Babysit a Grandma and How to Babysit a Grandpa. Storytime and activities for grandparents and kids.

Also at Coconut Point location at 2 pm. 5377 Tamiami Trail North, Naples. 239-597-2040. bn.com.

1:00 PM. Jazz Master Dixieland Jazz Band. Free Dixieland Jazz Concert at the Norris Center, Saturdays 01:00 pm - 03:00 pm Donations Greatly Appreciated. 755 8th Ave South, Naples, Florida 34102.

239-254-9674 2:00 PM. Fit Made Fun Event at Barnes & Noble. Fit made fun.

5377 Tamiami Trail North, Naples. 239-597-2040. bn.com.

7 Sunday 9:00 AM. National Grandparents Day. Free admission for any grandparent accompanied by their grandchild. Everglades Wonder Gardens, 27180 Old 41 Road, Bonita Springs. 239-992-2591. evergladeswondergardens.com/ 2:00 PM. Free Concerts at the Bandshell. Bring a blanket for the whole family and enjoy free jazz concerts in Cambier Park. 755 8th Ave. S., Naples. 239-213-3058. www.naplesgov.com/index.aspx?NID=576.

8 Monday 10:00 AM. Baby-Parent Rhyme Time at South Country Regional Library. This program is for the whole family and lasts about 30 minutes. Registration is required. 21100 Three Oaks Pkwy, Naples.

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Shop Southwest Florida’s earth friendly, eco-boutique where you will find natural living products for your home, body and baby.

We carry: Reusable cloth diapers, Reusable Swim Diapers, Baby Wraps and Carriers as well as the largest selection of healing Baltic Amber in the area!

Located in The Mommy Shop

(239) 596-2661

at The Shoppes at Vanderbilt 2355 Vanderbilt Beach Rd., www.ecobabyandhome.com Suite 150, Naples

Classes and events promoting natural parenting in Lee & Collier counties.

MONTESSORI

A c a d e m y o f N a pl e s INFANT TODDLER CHILDREN’S HOUSE With integrated VPK ELEMENTARY ADOLESCENT

Ages 8 weeks to 15 years Join us for our next Open House on Wednesday, September10, 2014 from 5:00P.M. to 6:00P.M. Call now or visit our website!

239-597-2255

www.naplesmontessori.org

2659 Professional Circle, Suite 1118, Naples, Florida 34119 License #C20CO0026 ENROLL TODAY! DAILY HOURS 7:30 A.M. to 5:30 P.M.

• Weekly Maintenance • Equipment Repairs • Pool & Deck Restoration • Aqualink® Systems & Heat Pumps • Gas Heaters– Install & Repair FAMILY OWNED & OPERATED SINCE 1987 State Licensed & Insured CPC057357

New Customers: Mention ad for One Mon FREE Servicth e Call for details

o

598-2820 o

239-

office@leisurepoolsofnaples.com • www.leisurepoolsofnaples.com

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Many Collier County Library programs require preregistration, please call ahead for any program you are interested in attending to check requirements.

239- 479-INFO (4636).

6:30 PM. Girl Scout Troop Building Night.

Held at Osceola Elementary. Visit www.gsgcf. org for additional information.

9 Tuesday 6:30 PM. Awesome Origami at South County Regional Library. Learn to fold the sitting crane which represents one’s longing for life and peace. Explore the many books available about Origami and paper folding.

For grades five and up. 21100 Three Oaks Pkwy, Naples. 239- 479-INFO (4636).

6:30 PM. NIFF Film Society Summer Series: Amelie. Ticket includes beverage, snack, film and discussion. Silverspot Movie Theater, 9118 Strada Place, Naples. 239-5920300. www.silverspot.net/contact-us.php.

6:30 PM. Girl Scout Troop Building Night.

Held at Lake Park Elementary. Visit www. gsgcf.org for additional information.

10 Wednesday 6:30 PM. Girl Scout Troop Building Night.

Held at Big Cypress Elementary. Visit www. gsgcf.org for additional information.

11 Thursday 5:00 PM. Whole Foods Block Party. Join us for free samples at our weekly storewide block party. Be sure to vote for your favorite recipe for a chance to win a $25.00 Whole Foods Market gift card. Drop off your completed ballot at Customer Service. 9101 Strada Place, Naples. 239-552-5100. www. wholefoodsmarket.com/stores/naples 5:30 PM. Thursday Science Adventure at Marco Island Library. This drop-in activity is a great opportunity to use technology to explore some favorite topics in Chemistry, Biology, Space, Earth and Physical science.

210 S. Heathwood Drive, Marco Island. 239394-3272. public.collier-lib.org.

12 Friday 5:00 PM. Yappy Hour at Bell Tower Shops. Ditch the bones and toys and bring your pooch to Bell Tower Shops for Yappy

Hour, where you can meet adoptable dogs, sip on cold refreshments from the outdoor bar and listen to live music with your four-legged friend. Daniels Pkwy and US 41, Fort Myers. 239-489-1221. www.thebelltowershops. com.

6:30 PM. Girl Scout Troop Building Night.

Held at Vineyards Elementary. Visit www. gsgcf.org for additional information.

13 Saturday Call for time.. Galloway Captiva Triathlon.

The Captiva Triathlon is a family, fun and fitness weekend at South Seas Island Resort centered around a children’s race on Saturday morning and an adult sprint-length race on Sunday morning. 5400 Plantation Road, Captiva. www.captivatri.org.

9:00 AM. National Peanut Day. A free bag of peanuts for the first 20 guests. Everglades Wonder Gardens, 27180 Old 41 Road, Bonita Springs. 239-992-2591. evergladeswondergardens.com/ 9:00 AM. Mother-Daughter Conference: Encouraging and Empowering our Girls.

ENROLL YOUR INFANT, TODDLER, OR PRESCHOOLER NOW! Precious Cargo embraces early education as a joyous and creative journey where each child is valued and respected in a secure and nurturing environment.

Come take a tour, meet our exceptional staff, and review our creative curriculum.

5200 Crayton Road; Naples, Florida 34103 Next to Seagate Elementary Email: office@preciouscargoacademy.org A MISSION OF THE NAPLES UNITED CHURCH OF CHRIST

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OPEN HOUSE AUG. 6 M 5:30-7P

(239) 261-7442

www.PreciousCargoAcademy.org NEAPOLITANfamily • September 2014

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We will discuss ways to help guide your daughters through difficult times, and encourage and empower them to be strong, independent, happy and healthy young girls. For information, call 239-349-0122 or email info@strongmotherdaughter.com. 7675 Davis Blvd., Naples.

10:00 AM. Latino Celebration. Come celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month at the Home Deport (Airport & Davis, Naples, FL). 20 Spanish speaking countries will be represented, passports, traditional food and represhments, Latin American dance demonstrations, games and more.

1651 S Airport Pulling Rd, Naples. 239-793-2203.

10:00 AM. Baby-Parent Rhyme Time at South Country Regional Library. This program is for the whole family and lasts about 30 minutes. Registration is required. 21100 Three Oaks Pkwy, Naples.

239- 479-INFO (4636).

11:00 AM. Where the Wild Things Are at Barnes & Noble.

Where the Wild Things Are Storytime. Celebrating 50 years of Maurice Sendak’s beloved classic. Also at Coconut Point Mall at 2 pm.. 5377 Tamiami Trail North, Naples. 239-597-2040. bn.com.

11:00 AM. Magic Carpet–Brass. For youth ages 3-9, these concerts feature musicians from the Naples Philharmonic performing a 45-minute program while demonstrating their instruments and answering questions. Also at 1 pm. 5833 Pelican Bay Blvd, Naples.

239-597-1900. www.thephil.org.

1:00 PM. Jazz Master Dixieland Jazz Band. Free Dixieland Jazz Concert at the Norris Center, Saturdays 01:00 pm - 03:00 pm Donations Greatly Appreciated. 755 8th Ave South, Naples, Florida 34102.

239-254-9674 2:00 PM. Kids Art with Paint, Nature and Textures at Bonita Springs Library. This activity allows kids to explore their creativity and imagination freely. Everyone will have the chance to examine and paint patterns with nature’s brushes and various paint textures. 26876 Pine Avenue, Bonita Springs. 239-992-0101. library.lee-county.com/ services/locations/BN/pages/default.aspx.

2:00 PM. Craft Beer & Music Festival. Tickets are $30 for samplings and access to the all-day music festival. A limited number of VIP tickets are also available for $45 that include VIP concert seating, Craft Beer Guide, exclusive one-hour VIP access before gates open, and souvenir. Daniels Pkwy and US 41, Fort Myers. 239-489-1221. www.thebelltowershops.com.

6:30 PM. Summer Jazz on the Gulf. Guests may bring lawn chairs or blankets for seating, however no outside food and beverage is allowed on resort grounds. Parking and trolley service available at Lowdermilk Park. 851 Gulf Shore Blvd. North, Naples. 239-261-2222. www. naplesbeachhotel.com/.

14 Sunday 10:00 AM. Baby-Parent Rhyme Time at South Country Regional Library. This program is for the whole family and lasts about 30 minutes. Registration is required. 21100 Three Oaks Pkwy, Naples.

239- 479-INFO (4636).

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

15 Monday 10:00 AM. The Elf on the Shelf Birthday Tradition at Barnes & NEAPOLITANfamily • September 2014

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Noble. Reading. Barnes & Noble, 5377 Tamiami Trail North, Naples.

239-597-2040. www. bn.com.

3:00 PM. Cookie Sculpting at Bonita Springs Public Library.

Come out to the Bonita Springs Library and create cookie art. Use toothpicks to carve art into cookies and resolve not to eat the artwork.

Sponsored by the Friends of the Bonita Springs Library. 26876 Pine Avenue, Bonita Springs. 239-992-0101. library.lee-county.com/ services/locations/BN/pages/default.aspx.

5:30 PM. Tuesday Science Adventures at South Regional Library.

This drop-in activity, held on the third Tuesday of the month, is a great opportunity to use technology to explore some favorite topics in Chemistry, Biology, Space, Earth and Physical Science. 8065 Lely Cultural Parkway, Naples. 239-252-7542. public.collier-lib.org.

6:30 PM. Girl Scout Troop Building Night. Held at Estates Elementary. Visit www.gsgcf.org or call 239-776-0508 for additional information.

16 Tuesday 6:30 PM. Girl Scout Troop Building Night. Held at Palmetto Elementary. Visit www.gsgcf.org or call 239-776-0508 for additional information.

17 Wednesday 3:00 PM. Library Cards are Cool at Marco Island Branch Library.

Celebrate Library Card Sign-up month. Get a library card or show you already have one then come enjoy some fun (and cool) water games and crafts. 210 S. Heathwood Drive, Marco Island. 239-394-3272. public.collier-lib.org.

6:30 PM. Girl Scout Troop Building Night. Held at Poinciana Elementary. Visit www.gsgcf.org or call 239-776-0508 for additional information.

18 Thursday 5:00 PM. Whole Foods Block Party. Join us for free samples at our weekly storewide block party. Be sure to vote for your favorite recipe for a chance to win a $25.00 Whole Foods Market gift card. Drop off your completed ballot at Customer Service. 9101 Strada Place, Naples.

239-552-5100. www.wholefoodsmarket.com/stores/naples.

5:30 PM. All That Glitters Is Not Gold: The Science of Shipwrecks at Immokalee Branch Library. Discover the treasures hidden in the mysterious depths just off Florida’s sunny shores. Learn about the shipwrecks that underwater archaeologists have identified and how you can visit them. 417 North First Street, Immokalee. 239-657-2882. public.collier-lib.org.

6:30 PM. Girl Scout Troop Building Night. Held at Calusa Elementary. Visit www.gsgcf.org or call 239-776-0508 for additional information.

7:00 PM. Peaceful Mind. Relax, Release, and Reset with mental and emotional balance. Unwind and energize through simple use of breath, sound, humor, and relaxation exercises. Open to Adults and Teens. Wear comfortable clothes. Bring yoga mat and blanket for comfort. 4500 Executive Drive, Naples. 239-325-9210. www. monarchtherapy.com.

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8:30am - 2:30pm Extended Hours Available 2535 Northbrooke Plaza Dr. Naples, FL 34119 (Across from Super Target)

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

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September Picks in Lee County

Family Fun Day

The Shell Factory & Nature Park, North Fort Myers Monday, September 1 • 11 a.m. - 6 p.m.

Live music, Special Fun Park Package, 2 for 1 admission to the Nature Park, holiday cookout and the Soaring Eagle Zip Line. www.shellfactory.com

Mad Science Day

Wm. Bill Austen Youth Center, Cape Coral Saturday, September 20 • Noon - 3 p.m.

Participants will enjoy making ooey gooey creations, explore gak, clean mud, ooblick, and flubber. 239-242-3950 .

Peace Day in the Park

Jaycee Park, Cape Coral Sunday, September 21 • 10 a.m. - 6 p.m.

Arts and crafts tent, workshops on bee-keeping, poi dancing, meditation, belly dancing, kids' story & music time, face-painting, a mini petting zoo, a magician, sidewalk chalk art and more! 239-560-5224

KIDding Around

Bell Tower Shops, Fort Myers Saturday, September 27 • 11 a.m .- 1 p.m.

Pony rides, bounce house fun, free face painting and more! www.thebelltowershops.com

National Alpaca Day

STARanch Alpacas, 17700 Caloosa Rd., Alva Saturday, September 27 • 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.

Meet, pet and feed the alpacas. See all kinds of alpaca crafts & products.

Walk an alpaca through the obstacle course, bounce in the bounce house, enjoy live music & hayrides and the alpaca lifestyle. Free. 239-992-9966

Lee County’s Original Family Publication

FOR 23 YEARS!!

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19 Friday 5:30 PM. Parents’ Night Out. Looking for something different for the kids to do while you enjoy a night out? Parents Night Out at My Gym is your answer. We provide pizza and fun. $35 for members, $45 for non-members and $10 sibling discount. Contact us now to reserve your spot. 13020 Livingston Road #17, Naples. 239-431-6499. mygymnaples.com/ 6:00 PM. Beer Tasting and Live Music at Whole Foods. Drop by Whole Foods for beer tastings in the Café and Lifestyle Center the 3rd Fri. of every month. This month sample tons of different beers, including select seasonal beers. Vendors will be on-site to answer questions and offer recommendations. 9101 Strada Place, Naples. 239-552-5100. www.wholefoodsmarket.com/stores/naples.

6:00 PM. Popcorn and Movie Night at Immokalee Sports Park.

This program provides a safe environment for children and a chance to watch great movie. 505 Escambia Street, Immokalee. 239- 657-1951.

6:00 PM. East Naples Community Park Kids Night Out. Kids will have the opportunity to socialize & enjoy playful activities with their friends. Refreshments, face painting, games, crafts & prizes will be available. 3500 Thomasson Drive, Naples. 239-252-4414. colliergov.net.

6:00 PM. Fifth Grade Dance at Max Hasse Community Park.

Dance the night away at our school dances. Tickets go on sale 2 weeks in advance. $10. 3390 Golden Gate Pkwy, Naples. 239-348-7500. colliergov.net.

20 Saturday 6:00 AM. Fitness on Fire 5K & 10K. 5K, 10K, or 1 mile fun run to rebuild the Greater Naples YMCA. No registration fee; donations only. Registration: 6am. Race starts: 7am. Pets and strollers welcome.

5450 YMCA Road , Naples. Registration for race can be completed online at www.greaternaplesymca.org 7:00 AM. Zero Prostate Cancer Run/Walk. Lace up your sneakers and join Florida Urology Physicians at the ZERO Prostate Cancer Run/Walk - Fort Myers on Saturday, September 20, 2014 at JetBlue Park in Fort Myers. The race is part of the ZERO Prostate Cancer Challenge – the premier men’s health event series in America – coming to more than three-dozen cities across the nation in 2014. This tight-knit community activity brings together athletes, doctors, cancer survivors and those who care about them to end prostate cancer. We aim to accomplish our goal by funding research and providing free testing and education. 11581 Daniels Pkwy, Naples. 239-334-4700.

9:00 AM. Creating a Future for Adults with Autism 2014 Conference. Join us for a day of learning and sharing as we create the future we want for our loved ones. We will be discussing opportunities for job training and transitioning to independence for people with autism, facilitated by leaders in the field. The day includes expert panel discussions on legal issues relating to guardianship and trusts and long term living options. During the afternoon, we will have breakout sessions exploring housing, vocational training, and planning for after we are no longer able to care for our loved ones. Conference cost is $25 and includes snacks and lunch. 625 111th Avenue North, Naples. 239450-6060 10:00 AM. 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.

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GOLDMAN CHIROPRACTIC Unleashing The Natural Healing Power of Your Body

AND ACUPUNCTURE Chiropractic Massage Acupuncture Cold Laser Therapy Nutritional Evaluations Kinesiology Orthotics Nutritional Supplements

James W. Goldman, D.C., LAc

254-0003 www.GoldmanChiro.com 1001 Crosspointe Drive, Suite 1 • Naples, FL 34110 MM20212

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6710 Lone Oak Blvd., Naples. 239-434-7754. www.collierdems.org/ 10:00 AM. Vaccine Lecture. Vaccines: Pride and Prejudice. A Parent’s Walk Down the Vaccine Decision Trail: There is more to informed consent than illness prevention. How a father of 8 worked through the scientific literature. 1221 Fifth Ave South, Naples. 239348-7337. thornburgpediatrics.com/ 10:30 AM. Kids Safety, Stranger Danger, and Self Defense. We teach kids how to recognize dangerous situations, avoid them if possible, and fight back and escape when necessary. We make learning these skills interesting and fun, and we teach in an age appropriate manner.

Kids love the interactive activities, and parents always appreciate the important lessons they are learning. Impact Martial Arts, 5926 Premier Way Unit 128, Naples. 239-596-1633. www.impactnaples.com/ 11:00 AM. Curious George’s Curiosity Day at Barnes & Noble.

Celebrating our favorite mischievous monkey with stories, activities and giveaways. Also at Coconut Point Mall at 2 pm. 5377 Tamiami Trail North, Naples. 239-597-2040. bn.com.

1:00 PM. Jazz Master Dixieland Jazz Band. Free Dixieland Jazz Concert at the Norris Center, Saturdays 01:00 pm - 03:00 pm Donations Greatly Appreciated. 755 8th Ave South, Naples, Florida 34102.

239-254-9674 1:00 PM. Dixieland Concert. Sponsored by The Naples Jazz Society.

755 8th Ave South, Naples. 239- 213-3058.

2:00 PM. The Fault in our Stars Movie Showing and Book Comparison at South Regional Library. Teens are welcome to stay after movie to have a brief discussion to compare the book with the movie.

Refreshments will be served. Registration is required. For teens ages 11 - 17. 8065 Lely Cultural Parkway, Naples. 239-252-7542. public. collier-lib.org.

6:30 PM. Girl Scout Troop Building Night. Held at Golden Gate Community Center. Visit www.gsgcf.org for additional information.

21 Sunday

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

MCNA and CMS insurance accepted.

WHERE SOMETHING IS ALWAYS HAPPENING

9:00 AM. World Gratitude Day. We’re thankful for all of our visitors. Everyone enjoys half-price admission today. Everglades Wonder Gardens, 27180 Old 41 Road, Bonita Springs. 239-992-2591. evergladeswondergardens.com/ 2:00 PM. Free Concerts at the Bandshell. Bring a blanket for the whole family and enjoy free jazz concerts in Cambier Park. 755 8th Ave. S., Naples. 239-213-3058. www.naplesgov.com/index.aspx?NID=576.

22 Monday 5:00 PM. Sensory Night at CMON. Sensory Night at the Golisano Children’s Museum of Naples (C’mon) is an engaging, interactive, and inspiring night to promote families playing, learning and dreaming together in a low-sensory museum experience. Livingston Road 15080 Livingston Road, Naples. 239-514-0084. www.cmon.org/ 5:30 PM. Frozen Party at Naples Regional Library. No registration required.. 650 Central Avenue, Naples. 239-262-6853. public. collier-lib.org.

23 Tuesday 9:00 AM. First Day of Autumn. To celebrate the change of seasons, NEAPOLITANfamily • September 2014

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Glow Bowling Family Special Group Functions

Birthday Parties Great Menu So Much More!

Sundays 5-9PM

2 Hours of Bowling 14”Pizza (1 topping) & Pitcher of Soda

Plus

Shoe Rental too!

Up to 4 bowlers per lane

$37.00 + tx Your favorite sports always on.

Nemo’s awesome menu!

Located inside all Bowland Centers.

*Reservations Accepted Woodside Lanes 8525 Radio Ln. Naples, 455-3755

Beacon Bowl N. Tamiami Tr. Naples 597-3452

www.bowlandcenters.com

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ABC Swim School Survival Swimming for Babies & Toddlers

6 months old to 6 years old • One-on-one instruction

239-272-0529

www.abcswimschool.com PediaSwim & WSI/CPR certified

Eisa Lindner LMT A Women’s Specialty Practice

Offering: • Hot Stone Massage • Reflexology • Tuning Forks in a warm, nurturing environment Coming soon: PEDIATRIC MASSAGE!

MA47189 MM23779

(239) 595-4073

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

• Top Rated VPK • Preschool Classes • Summer Camp

the first 20 guests will receive a shrimp plant nurtured in our own garden center. Everglades Wonder Gardens, 27180 Old 41 Road, Bonita Springs. 239-992-2591. evergladeswondergardens.com/ 6:30 PM. Take Flight at South County Regional Library. Design and decorate a plane and test the flight path. Check out library materials about paper airplanes, aviation and inventors. For grades five and up. Sponsored by the Friends of South County Regional Library, Inc. Space is limited so registration is required. 21100 Three Oaks Pkwy, Estero. 239- 479-INFO (4636).

6:30 PM. Girl Scout Troop Building Night. Held at North Naples United Methodist Church. Visit www.gsgcf.org call 239-776-0508 for additional information.

24 Wednesday Call for time. Cirque Du Soleil. September 24-28. Call for showtimes and ticket information. Germain Arena, 11000 Everblades Pkwy, Estero. 239- 335-0457. www.germainarena.com.Call for time..

6:00 PM. Free Admission to The Baker Museum. Enjoy free admission to The Baker Museum the last Wednesday of each month from 6 to 9pm. A local band offers musical entertainment and audiences of all ages are welcome to view the galleries and learn from our docents.

5833 Pelican Bay Blvd, Naples. 239-597-1900. www.thephil.org.

6:30 PM. Girl Scout Troop Building Night. Held at Sabal Palm Elementary. Visit www.gsgcf.org call 239-776-0508 for additional information.

7:00 PM. Improv Tonight at the Center for The Arts Bonita Springs.

Join us the last Wednesday of every month for some of South West Florida’s best improvisational comedy. 10150 Bonita Beach Road SE, Bonita Springs. 239-495-8989. www.artcenterbonita.org.

25 Thursday 3:00 PM. QR Codes Scavenger Hunt at Marco Island Library.

Come learn how to create your own QR (Quick Response) codes, and then go on a scavenger hunt for QR codes throughout the library. 210 S. Heathwood Drive, Marco Island. 239-394-3272. public.collier-lib.org.

5:00 PM. Walk at the Promenade. View artists as they create. New exhibitions, and artists, occupy the studios every 30 to 60 days. The last Thursday of each month kicks off a new group of artists and exhibitions in an evening Studio Walk, accompanied by musical entertainment.

26795-27911 South Bay Drive, Bonita Springs. (800) 799-0178. www.promenadeshops.com.

5:00 PM. Whole Foods Block Party. Join us for free samples at our weekly storewide block party. Be sure to vote for your favorite recipe for a chance to win a $25.00 Whole Foods Market gift card. 9101 Strada Place, Naples. 239-552-5100. www.wholefoodsmarket.com/ stores/naples.

7:00 PM. Peaceful Mind. Relax, Release, and Reset with mental and emotional balance. Unwind and energize through simple use of breath, sound, humor, and relaxation exercises. Open to Adults and Teens. Wear comfortable clothes. Bring yoga mat and blanket for comfort. 4500 Executive Drive, Naples. 239-325-9210. www. monarchtherapy.com.

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26 Friday 5:30 PM. Second Annual Craving Fashion Event at Waterside Shops. Sip, stroll and shop while enjoying a taste from over 30 restaurants and raising money for Make-A-Wish Foundation. $50. Tickets can be purchased at www.cravingfashion2014.eventbrite.com.

5415 Tamiami Trail N, Naples. 239-5981605. www.watersideshops.com.

27 Saturday Call for time. National Parks Free Admission. Free admission to Everglades National Park. 40001 State Road 9336, Naples. 305242-7700. www.nps.gov/ever/planyourvisit/ directions.htm.

9:00 AM. World Tourism Day. We’re proud to have been a Southwest Florida tourist attraction since 1936, so we’re rolling back prices to $5 for everyone today.

Everglades Wonder Gardens, 27180 Old 41 Road, Bonita Springs. 239-992-2591. evergladeswondergardens.com/ 9:00 AM. National Public Lands Day at Lovers Key. Join Lovers Key State Park Rangers and Volunteers to help maintain the park’s trails, remove exotic invasive species of plants, and pick up litter along the trails to help ensure Lovers Key is a wonderful place to visit. Register 239-463-4588. 8700 Estero Blvd, Naples. 239-463-4588.

10:00 AM. 1,000 Books Before Kindergarten Event with Llama Llama at South County Regional Library. Are you participating in 1,000 books before Kindergarten, or want to get started? This event celebrates reading with stories, songs and activities featuring Llama Llama, who will make a guest appearance during the program. Registration is required. 21100 Three Oaks Pkwy, Naples.

239- 479-INFO (4636).

ST R

10:00 AM. National Estuaries Day at Rookery Bay Free Admission. Boat tours, kayaking trips, free paddle boarding on Henderson Creek, marine critter touch tank, live animal presentations, kids games and crafts, behind-the-scenes tours of the science labs, films, food and more. 300 Tower Road, Naples. 239- 417-6310. www.rookerybay.org.

11:00 AM. Magic Carpet: Woodwinds.

For youth ages 3-9, these concerts feature musicians from the Naples Philharmonic performing a 45-minute program while demonstrating their instruments and answering questions. Also held at 1 pm. 5833 Pelican Bay Blvd, Naples. 239-597-1900. www. thephil.org.

11:00 AM. National Museum Day at Naples Depot Museum. Fire engines, police vehicles, swamp buggies, motorcycles, vintage cars, face painting, carriage rides, and a rock-climbing wall will highlight this year’s celebration. Join local museums, libraries, parks, nature centers, and food vendors.

1051 Fifth Ave S, Naples. 239- 262-6525. colliermusems.com.

1:00 PM. Jazz Master Dixieland Jazz Band. Free Dixieland Jazz Concert at the Norris Center, Saturdays 01:00 pm - 03:00 pm Donations Greatly Appreciated.. 755 8th Ave South, Naples, Florida 34102. 239254-9674 2:00 PM. The Elf on the Shelf Birthday Tradition at Barnes & Noble. Reading..

23106 Fashion Drive, Naples. 239-992-9966.

28 Sunday 2:00 PM. Storytime en Español at Barnes & Noble. Hispanic Heritage Storytime featuring Santiago el soñador entre las estrellas by Ricky Martin.. 5377 Tamiami Trail North, Naples. 239-597-2040. bn.com.

2:00 PM. Free Concerts at the Bandshell.

student theatre artists in residence

EDUCATION

Bring a blanket for the whole family and enjoy free jazz concerts in Cambier Park.. 755 8th Ave. S., Naples. 239-213-3058. www. naplesgov.com/index.aspx?NID=576.

29 Monday 10:00 AM. Music Together at South County Regional Library. The library’s friends from Family Music Time will create a relaxed, playful environment where children and their caregivers can share songs, play instruments and learn rhythm patterns. Registration required. 21100 Three Oaks Pkwy, Naples. 239- 479-INFO (4636).

7:00 PM. Raku and You. Everyone goes home with their very own raku masterpiece.

Art Center of Bonita Springs, 26100 Old 41 Road, Bonita Springs. 239-495-8989. artcenterbonita.org.

30 Tuesday 10:00 AM. The Day the Crayons Quit at Barnes & Noble. Story time. 5377 Tamiami Trail North, Naples. 239-597-2040. bn.com.

10:30 AM. Max Cleans Up at South Regional Library. Max is cleaning his room and keeps finding things he wants to save.

Come help clean up the Children’s Library then make a door hanger.. 8065 Lely Cultural Parkway, Naples. 239-252-7542. public. collier-lib.org.

4:00 PM. Crafter’s Choice at Vanderbilt Beach Branch Library. Drop by and make the crafts of your choice. Ages 2-6 years.

Registration is not required.. 788 Vanderbilt Beach Road, Naples. 239-597-8444. public. collier-lib.org.

Do You Want to

be a STAR?

Theatre Classes begin in November 2014! education.gulfshoreplayhouse.org NEAPOLITANfamily • September 2014

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THE ARTS

Art Programs Draw Children In!

T

he benefits of art are many: fosters brain development, develops critical thinking skills and helps children express themselves when they don’t have the verbal skills to do so.

Children can benefit from art education through school and at home. The following local groups are providing creative art education that benefit their participants and our community.

NICU Sibling Scrapbooking Program at Golisano Children’s Hospital Parents spend months getting their child ready for a sibling but when the baby is born early or ill and can’t come home it can be traumatic and confusing for the older sibling. According to Pat Dolce, public affairs specialist at Golisano Children’s Hospital of SW Florida, the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) Sibling Program “makes having a new sibling a little more real for the child.”

On Tuesdays evenings between 5:30 p.m. and 7:30 p.m., a small group of children ages 3-12, along with their parents,

gather in a conference room at Golisano Children’s Hospital in Ft. Myers. The children have one thing in common–they each have a newborn sibling in the NICU. During the course of the evening, an art therapist and volunteers educate the children on how their siblings are being taken care of and what it will be like in the NICU. The group starts with a simple art project–usually a family drawing, which gives the therapist insight into how the children are reacting to their new brother or sister.

The children scrub up carefully, get gowned and then are allowed into the NICU to see and sometimes touch and hold their brothers or sisters. While the meetings are being held, volunteers take photos of the family time and have them printed.

Once the visit is complete, the children head back to the conference room and create scrapbook pages combining the photos with their drawings. The hard-bound photo albums are the child’s to keep as a special momento.

Children can attend the sessions as many times as they would like–as long as their siblings remain in NICU. There is no fee for the program.

For more information on the NICU Sibling Program, contact Michele M. King, director, Child Advocacy Program at (239) 343-5890 or email michele.king@ leememorial.org.

45-minute classes spent on the portraits, McWilliams’ students “never wavered in their focus or interest.”

McWilliams took side-view digital pictures of each student and then blew them up on the copier. The students used those pictures as a base for their drawing outline. They filled in the heads with intricate designs using black Sharpies. The portraits give the students lots of room for creativity and individuality.

“This project was equally embraced by those who were less confident in their art abilities and those who love to really get into their art projects hook, line and sinker,” McWilliams says. “It was also wonderful to see the camaraderie as they viewed each other’s projects and encouraged each other and voiced their amazement at someone’s beautiful or creative design.” One of the students even received special recognition at Artis Naples for his portrait.

The students in the upcoming eighth grade class already have asked if they can do the same project. “I know as a teacher that I have home run when the students from one class beg to do what another class has done, and want to create a legacy project,” McWilliams says. “That tells me they are already engaged and their creative juices are ready to be put to the task.”

Naples Christian Academy is located at 3161 Santa Barbara Blvd, Naples. Call (239) 455-1080 for additional information.

Naples Christian Academy Zentangle Portraits Barbara McWilliams is the Art Teacher( K-8) and Missions Program Coordinator at Naples Christian Academy. It isn’t always easy to keep 8th graders interested in art class but art teacher Barbara McWilliams uses innovative projects to grab and keep her students’ attention at Naples Christian Academy.

Zentangle portraits is just one example of such projects. During the eight

ARTScool Arts Program A national coalition of educators, artists and scientists are proposing a different approach to science, technology, engineering and math education, commonly known as STEM. Add the arts to the mix, and make it STEAM. Locally, ARTScool at The Von Liebig Art Center incorporates a rigorous STEAM-led approach to arts education that facilitates learning in a fun and academic environment for children ages 5-14.

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Two examples of the integration of academics and engagement in ARTScool are the Engineering with LEGO® Bricks and Express Yourself, Impress Everyone classes. In Engineering with LEGO® Bricks, students develop a model vehicle with considerations to aesthetics and performance.

Students discuss methods of making the vehicle fast, including tire size, aerodynamics and momentum. After creating original models, students test for speed, modify designs based on the results, and retest.

Students participating in Express Yourself, Impress Everyone discuss translating emotions into imagery. They think about and discuss how each emotion may be represented by color. Then, they learn about mixing primary colors to create secondary colors. That lesson includes scientific information regarding light and chemistry. After mixing their own colors, representative of emotions, students create a work with emphasis on the narrative value of color and shape. The instructor guides students on methods of impressionist and expressionist techniques with classical examples of each.

ARTScool curriculum provides project-based learning incorporating several dis-

The project started with the children discussing their ideas which allowed them to work on communication skills. Teachers wanted to be sure that each child had a chance to share their ideas.

Once the work began, each child participated in different ways: painting, gluing, finding pictures, creating characters and drawing.

The project mission of teaching leadership skills and the importance of working as a community was realized as the children worked together refining their work.

The final work of art can be seen at House of Gaia at 1660 Trade Center Way, Naples. For more information on House of Gaia, call (239) 272-6152 or check houseofgaia.org.

ciplines. Students create projects that combine subjects like math, science, language, history, technology, art, and design. The multidisciplinary approach helps students understand how to apply concepts and use their knowledge in real world settings.

Projects include designing and constructing buildings, creating kaleidoscopes, and building robots, to name a few.

Classes are held throughout the summer as well as in December in the holiday ARTScool program.

For more information contact Shea Lindner, communications and programs manager, at (239) 262-6517.

Community Puzzle at House of Gaia One hundred children, ages 3 to 10, spent 5 weeks this summer building a giant collage puzzle at House of Gaia’s Trade Center Way studio.

The idea for the project came from a summer camp leadership meeting where the theme “Summer in Wonderland” was chosen and the project planned.

The children used various recycled materials including magazine photos, fabric, and drawings to assemble the 10 x 12 foot puzzle.

House of Gaia Community Learning Center • • • •

Art, Music & Movement Classes for Children Children’s Yoga Theatre for Kids Classes for Homeschoolers

• • • •

Special Needs Classes Birthday Parties Summer and Holiday Camps Classes and Workshops for Adults

1660 Trade Center Way, Suite 1 & 3, Naples, Florida 34109

(239) 272-6152 • info@houseofgaia.org • houseofgaia.org NEAPOLITANfamily • September 2014

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THE ARTS

By Colleen Wright

Drowning in Artwork?

Ten Crafty Ways to Repurpose Their Masterpieces Are you out of display space for your children’s artwork?

Try reusing their art with these unique projects!

S

ometime around preschool, your children’s cherished scribbles begin to multiply at an impressive rate.

And before you can say “fridge-worthy,” you’re wading through daily mountains of creativity.

Are you out of display space, but can’t bring yourself to toss their colorful creations into the trash? Try reusing their art with these unique projects—and reclaim your fridge in the process.

Magnets. Don’t you love those tiny people, houses, and pets they draw? Cut them out and stick them to magnets for instant toys (adhesive magnetic sheets can be purchased at large retail stores). For added protection, cover the exposed drawing with clear contact paper to protect it against spills and smudged fingers. If young children aren’t yet drawing figures, cut their scribbles or paintings into shapes of people or animals.

If you aren’t good at cutting freehand, trace cookie cutter shapes instead. Make sure these magnets are too big to be swallowed. Bonus: once they’ve outgrown these magnets, you’ll have nostalgic fridge art that you can actually use.

Work Box. Create a “work box” by collecting some of your children’s artwork each month and placing it in a gift box. You can also add tape and different sized frames to the box. This makes a great gift for parents or other extra-special relatives. Give it to them to take to work; as each season comes up, they’ll have timely artwork at hand to display in their workspace. It’s a lovely personal, ever-changing reminder of your child.

Three-Ring Binder. Send your child to school with a one-of-a-kind binder displaying one of their favorite creations. Simply purchase a binder with a see-through plastic overlay on the outside of the front cover.

Their art will be on constant display, and protected too.

Placemats. Cover their art on both sides with clear contact paper. Make sure the contact paper extends about ¼-½ inch beyond the edge of the drawing and press the contact paper edges together so that

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water can’t seep into the drawing when the placemat is washed. For something sturdier, glue artwork to placemats bought at the store, and then cover both the artwork and the bottom of the placemat with contact paper, extending the contact paper ½ inch beyond the edge of the placemat on all sides. Sponge-wash only.

Gift Cards. With minimal work, you can turn cardstock and adhesive photo corners into cheery cards that feature their paintings.

After folding a piece of cardstock in half, cut artwork about ½ inch smaller on all sides than the front of the card. Place a photo corner on each corner of the painting, then stick the corners to the front of the card to complete.

Puzzles. To make good puzzles that are easy to put together, choose pictures that include large objects which your children will be able to put back together without too much trouble. Objects like houses, rockets and flowers are great because they have distinct parts that need to be put together in a certain way to make sense. Cover both sides of the chosen drawing or painting with clear contact paper, and then cut the art into large puzzle pieces. You can also take a picture of your kids’ artwork and order a puzzle of it at www.snapfish.com.

Coffee Table Book. If your children love to draw the same things over and over, and you’ve accumulated a dozen different versions of unicorns, snowmen or dinosaurs, bind the individual pieces together into a book for display. Label each page with the approximate month and year it was created and order chronologically, to show your children’s growth. Binding can be as simple as punching holes through the side of each page using a three-hold punch, and then tying a piece of yarn or ribbon through each hole.

Back to School Enrollment Event!

Friday, August 8th from 4pm-7pm

Current members, check out our fall schedule at mygym.com/naples and select your classes.

Free Lifetime Membership

Plus $25 Off Your First Month ($100 value)!

New members only

(239) 431-6499 13020 Livingston Road Naples, FL 34105 www.mygym.com/naples

Decorate. Instead of plastering your fridge with a chaos of art, create a pretty and organized display place to enhance your home. Some ideas: hang a string of ribbon across a wall, and use colorful hair clips or clip-on birds and other animals from the floral section of the craft store to attach the art; cover a wall with framed masterpieces; or choose a wall of their bedroom and wallpaper it with paintings that have similar colors which blend together in an appealing way.

After repurposing their artwork in these fun ways, you may even find yourself asking for more “works of heart” to use and display.

COLLEEN WRIGHT is the work-from-home mom of a spirited preschooler who fills her home with creativity, color and paint—sometimes minus the paper.

Art-chive Their Creations in Three Steps 1. Use a Tupperware container as an initial catch-all for all artwork as it comes in. Choose a container that’s wide and long enough for their largest paintings.

2. At the end of each month, pull out the artwork and write the month and year on the backs.

3. Sort each piece into a filing system of your choice, such as a sectionalized Tupperware container or artist’s portfolio.

Some ways to organize: by date, theme, or type of artwork.

NEAPOLITANfamily • September 2014

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2367 Vanderbilt Beach Road #805, Naples https://vinospicasso.com (239) 431-8750 neafamily.com

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water can’t seep into the drawing when the placemat is washed. For something sturdier, glue artwork to placemats bought at the store, and then cover both the artwork and the bottom of the placemat with contact paper, extending the contact paper ½ inch beyond the edge of the placemat on all sides. Sponge-wash only.

Gift Cards. With minimal work, you can turn cardstock and adhesive photo corners into cheery cards that feature their paintings.

After folding a piece of cardstock in half, cut artwork about ½ inch smaller on all sides than the front of the card. Place a photo corner on each corner of the painting, then stick the corners to the front of the card to complete.

Puzzles. To make good puzzles that are easy to put together, choose pictures that include large objects which your children will be able to put back together without too much trouble. Objects like houses, rockets and flowers are great because they have distinct parts that need to be put together in a certain way to make sense. Cover both sides of the chosen drawing or painting with clear contact paper, and then cut the art into large puzzle pieces. You can also take a picture of your kids’ artwork and order a puzzle of it at www.snapfish.com.

Coffee Table Book. If your children love to draw the same things over and over, and you’ve accumulated a dozen different versions of unicorns, snowmen or dinosaurs, bind the individual pieces together into a book for display. Label each page with the approximate month and year it was created and order chronologically, to show your children’s growth. Binding can be as simple as punching holes through the side of each page using a three-hold punch, and then tying a piece of yarn or ribbon through each hole.

Best Party Ever

Your child is the star of the show!

We do it all: setup, decorations, service of refreshments, and of course, the cleanup. Ask about our themed parties!

Mention Neapolitan Family Magazine and receive

$20 Off a Birthday Party!

Book by 10/15/14 and hold party by 12/31/14.

(239) 431-6499 13020 Livingston Road mygym.com/naples

Decorate. Instead of plastering your fridge with a chaos of art, create a pretty and organized display place to enhance your home. Some ideas: hang a string of ribbon across a wall, and use colorful hair clips or clip-on birds and other animals from the floral section of the craft store to attach the art; cover a wall with framed masterpieces; or choose a wall of their bedroom and wallpaper it with paintings that have similar colors which blend together in an appealing way.

After repurposing their artwork in these fun ways, you may even find yourself asking for more “works of heart” to use and display.

COLLEEN WRIGHT is the work-from-home mom of a spirited preschooler who fills her home with creativity, color and paint—sometimes minus the paper.

Art-chive Their Creations in Three Steps 1. Use a Tupperware container as an initial catch-all for all artwork as it comes in. Choose a container that’s wide and long enough for their largest paintings.

2. At the end of each month, pull out the artwork and write the month and year on the backs.

3. Sort each piece into a filing system of your choice, such as a sectionalized Tupperware container or artist’s portfolio.

Some ways to organize: by date, theme, or type of artwork.

NEAPOLITANfamily • September 2014

September 2014.indd 47

2367 Vanderbilt Beach Road #805, Naples https://vinospicasso.com (239) 431-8750 neafamily.com

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8/22/14 8:23 PM

water can’t seep into the drawing when the placemat is washed. For something sturdier, glue artwork to placemats bought at the store, and then cover both the artwork and the bottom of the placemat with contact paper, extending the contact paper ½ inch beyond the edge of the placemat on all sides. Sponge-wash only.

Gift Cards. With minimal work, you can turn cardstock and adhesive photo corners into cheery cards that feature their paintings.

After folding a piece of cardstock in half, cut artwork about ½ inch smaller on all sides than the front of the card. Place a photo corner on each corner of the painting, then stick the corners to the front of the card to complete.

Puzzles. To make good puzzles that are easy to put together, choose pictures that include large objects which your children will be able to put back together without too much trouble. Objects like houses, rockets and flowers are great because they have distinct parts that need to be put together in a certain way to make sense. Cover both sides of the chosen drawing or painting with clear contact paper, and then cut the art into large puzzle pieces. You can also take a picture of your kids’ artwork and order a puzzle of it at www.snapfish.com.

Coffee Table Book. If your children love to draw the same things over and over, and you’ve accumulated a dozen different versions of unicorns, snowmen or dinosaurs, bind the individual pieces together into a book for display. Label each page with the approximate month and year it was created and order chronologically, to show your children’s growth. Binding can be as simple as punching holes through the side of each page using a three-hold punch, and then tying a piece of yarn or ribbon through each hole.

Best Party Ever

Your child is the star of the show!

We do it all: setup, decorations, service of refreshments, and of course, the cleanup. Ask about our themed parties!

Mention Neapolitan Family Magazine and receive

$20 Off a Birthday Party!

Book by 10/15/14 and hold party by 12/31/14.

(239) 431-6499 13020 Livingston Road mygym.com/naples

Decorate. Instead of plastering your fridge with a chaos of art, create a pretty and organized display place to enhance your home. Some ideas: hang a string of ribbon across a wall, and use colorful hair clips or clip-on birds and other animals from the floral section of the craft store to attach the art; cover a wall with framed masterpieces; or choose a wall of their bedroom and wallpaper it with paintings that have similar colors which blend together in an appealing way.

After repurposing their artwork in these fun ways, you may even find yourself asking for more “works of heart” to use and display.

COLLEEN WRIGHT is the work-from-home mom of a spirited preschooler who fills her home with creativity, color and paint—sometimes minus the paper.

Art-chive Their Creations in Three Steps 1. Use a Tupperware container as an initial catch-all for all artwork as it comes in. Choose a container that’s wide and long enough for their largest paintings.

2. At the end of each month, pull out the artwork and write the month and year on the backs.

3. Sort each piece into a filing system of your choice, such as a sectionalized Tupperware container or artist’s portfolio.

Some ways to organize: by date, theme, or type of artwork.

NEAPOLITANfamily • September 2014

September 2014.indd 47

2367 Vanderbilt Beach Road #805, Naples https://vinospicasso.com (239) 431-8750 neafamily.com

47

8/23/14 10:26 AM

THE ARTS

By Christina Katz

Give Dance A Chance

21 Reasons To Try Consistent Classes

D

on’t be fooled by glittery costumes and false eyelashes-competitive dancers are athletes, who deserve to be taken just as seriously as members of any other team such as soccer, swimming or track. Dance has multiple benefits-often more than other sports. And yes, dance performed regularly and intensively is both a sport and a multi-sensory art form that may raise your child’s self-esteem.

According to the National Registry of Dance Educators, dance provides physical, intellectual, artistic, social and individual benefits that can enrich any dancer’s life.

If you are considering dance as an activity for your child, you may want to review the benefits, before you balk at the price tag of consistent classes.

Unlike many sports which are often seasonal, dance practice typically runs all school year or even year-round. Many kids take a variety of sports throughout the year, but dancers tend to take foundational dance classes first and then learn new forms of dance as their skills grow. Ballet, Tap, Jazz, Lyrical, Acrobatics, and Hip Hop are the most common forms of dance you will find offered at your local dance studio.

When we think of dance, we may think of diva ballerinas or overly meddlesome mothers, but dancers learn many helpful, practical skills that carry over naturally into everyday life. If you visit a few local studios in your area, you will likely find a vibe and set of values that are a good match for your child and family. Here are some of the many benefits of taking consistent dance classes: 1. Listening better. In order to learn, dancers have to hear and absorb verbal instructions from their teachers, often on the fly. In the practice room, instruction is offered in a variety of ways, which helps children learn to pay

attention before, during, and after learning something new.

2. Observing closely. Another way dancers learn is by watching demonstrations.

Dancing is a multi-sensory skill, so there are many ways to learn and watching closely is an important part of the process, especially for more visual learners.

3. Expanding social circles. Dancers can make new friends in dance class and expand their social circles beyond the neighborhood and the classroom. Friendships tend to deepen over time and kids who spend a lot of time working on new skills together are likely to form tighter friendships.

4. Growing more fit. We often think of dancers as dainty and delicate but dancers are stronger than you might think. Regular dancing increases cardiovascular health, builds muscles, and, over time, increases physical endurance.

5. Gaining musicality and rhythm. If you want your child to become more musical, even without practicing an instrument, dance is a good choice. The measured movements kids learn in dance help them intuitively understand and adapt to other kinds of rhythms in life.

6. Building strength. In my daughter’s 5th grade classroom, a petite veteran competitive dancer routinely beat the football players at arm wrestling. Dancers must be strong no matter what their size be-

Dance provides physical, intellectual, artistic, social and individual benefits that can enrich any dancer’s life 48

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cause they need core strength as well as individual muscle strength to leap, turn and twist without injury.

7. Becoming more flexible. Don’t worry if your child is not necessarily flexible or agile before beginning dance. Flexibility is something that is approached incrementally as a dancer learns and grows. After a few years of stretching and flexing, any dancer can become more limber.

Dance Arts by Maria

8. Focusing on following through. If your child has trouble concentrating for periods of time, dance might be a good way to build this skill. Because dance is kinesthetic as well as musical and rhythmic, children who have trouble sitting still in school can concentrate more easily while learning a complete dance movement, which takes considerable concentration, focus and practice.

9. Responding to feedback. Dancers receive ongoing feedback from instructors. The onus is on them to received feedback as graciously as they can and apply it to their routines so they can improve. This teaches responsiveness and collaboration instead of defensiveness and oversensitivity.

10. Practicing poise. Even if your child often trips or bumps into things, dance can cure the curse of klutziness. Poise in the practice room will eventually translate into increased body awareness and better motor control outside the studio, as well.

11. Inspiring self-discipline. So many situations in life require us to be able to train ourselves to do things to the best of our ability. By teaching mastery of a routine through practice, dancers learn how to aim for a goal and reach it. Repeated over time, this ability to get things accomplished can be applied to any task or healthy habit.

12. Finding opportunities for self-expression. Although dance is rarely verbal and routines are often choreographed, dancers express themselves artistically through movement, agility, poise, and by letting their personalities shine through. Some dances offer a variety of roles and dancers may either be cast in a role or offered a solo based on ability and personality.

13. Test-driving commitment. Dancers earn dividends on what they invest. When your dancer commits consistently, the payoff is great. Half-hearted engagement typically yields poorer results.

14. Increasing confidence. Confidence comes from doing. It’s one thing to watch a dance recital. It’s quite another to perform in one. Dance is multi-sensory, so don’t be surprised if it boosts your child’s confidence in ways you may not anticipate.

15. Acquiring excellent posture. Body language experts have proven that by changing our posture, we can change our attitude and our feelings. Dancers practice excellent posture, which has both short and long-term benefits physiologically and emotionally.

16. Improving body awareness. Dancers’ bodies come in all shapes and sizes and dancers learn that an active, healthy body helps you accomplish your objectives with greater ease no matter what size NEAPOLITANfamily • September 2014

Now g Offerin

y MomMme & ses Clas

DANCE FRIENDS MAKE THE BEST FRIENDS Teaching Love and Appreciation for the Art of Dance Offering: Ballet, Tap, Jazz, Hip Hop, Lyrical, Contemporary for Ages 2-18 5610 Yahl Street, #10, Naples, Florida 34109

www.NaplesDanceArts.com Twitter, Facebook, Instagram @naplesdancearts

239-513-6999 SWFL READERS CHOICE “BEST DANCE STUDIO” 2009, 2010, 2012, 2014

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events for the upcoming week. To sign up: Neafamily.com → click on the newsletter graphic box at the top of each page.

what is going on in Naples and surrounding areas. There is NOT a better calendar of events available locally.

The Music Studio of Naples • Your resource for private music instruction–all instruments and styles.

• Specializing in voice and piano.

• Mommy & Me early music instruction (ages 4 and up)

(239) 537-6209

musicstudionaples.com 255 Airport Road South, Naples 34014 6

• Educational Resources Book suggestions, craft ideas and more.

you are. Dancers learn first-hand the benefits eating healthy LITTLE PEOPLE’S SCHOOL • Forof2-5 year oldsand fueling868 their94th bodies.

Ave. N, Naples (239) 597-5064 17. Teaching teamwork. Dancers often literally depend on each other to lift each other up, to hold each other up, and to work in unison to make a whole. By working hard together and learning to trust each other, dancers learn to trust themselves in a group.

• Top Rated VPK • Preschool Classes • Summer Camp

18. Emphasizing a positive attitude. When you smile, the whole world smiles with you, so the saying goes. Like posture, tests have shown that smiling makes you feel better whether you want to feel better or not. The dance studio is a place where your child is reminded to put a best face forward. www.LittlePeoplesSchool.info 19. Reducing stress. Life getsNEAPOLITANfamily bumpy sometimes,•even for 2014 kids.

August Dancers who are experiencing stress in life outside the studio, may find that the consistency, focus, and health benefits of dance counterbalance negative effects of any stress in their personal lives.

Children experiencing stress typically benefit from expressive outlets for their considerable energy.

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20. Respecting instructors. Parents do not typically coach or volunteer in dance classes. Most instructors are trained and studios expect kids to be respectful towards their teachers. Dancers who treat instructors with admiration tend to get more out of the process than dancers who behave in a disrespectful manner or act out in class, just like in real life.

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21. Joining an extended community. Dancers are not just part of a class, they are part of an extended community. A studio is composed of the owner, the instructors, the students, and the parents and families of the students. Dancers learn that they can be a significant part of the whole and still shine as individuals. They can look to others for good examples and also set a good example. They learn, most importantly to work hard, do their best and still have fun.

THE WELL-STOCKED DANCE BAG Stock your child’s bad with the basics at the start of a busy dance season. Then check your child’s bag seasonally for wear and tear and to determine when items are becoming outgrown. Put your child’s name in or on all dance gear in permanent marker.

• Dance shoes (tap, jazz, ballet, lyrical all require different shoes) • A couple of leotards • Tights (in pink for ballet and nude for other performances) • A couple of pairs of dance shorts • Athletic bras • Non-binding underwear • Thick elastic hair bands • Hairnets for buns • Bobby pins (small and large, u-shape and regular) • A sturdy dance bag with pockets CHRISTINA KATZ is not the kind of dance mom you see featured dubiously on TV. She believes in the power of the arts to improve and enrich the lives of children and families and has witnessed the transformative results first-hand. Her latest book is The Art of Making Time for Yourself, A Collection of Advice for Moms.

NEAPOLITANfamily • September 2014

8/23/14 10:28 AM

Danc e Cla for Ag sses e 2 to 1 s 8!

Register for Fall Classes Today!

Why choose us?

1. Facilities - Our professional sprung dance oors reduce fatigue and prevent injuries.

2. No Fund Raisers - Students or parents

are never required to fund raise for studio events.

3. Family Plans - We make dancing affordable for families with more than one child.

Classes offered in the following styles of dance: Acro, Ballet, Broadway Jazz, Cecchetti Exam Classes, Combo Classes for Children,

5400 Jaeger Rd

Lyrical, Hip Hop, Jazz, Leaps & Turns, Modern/ Contemporary, Pointe and Tap. NEAPOLITANfamily • September 2014

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visit us at

www.bdaNaples.com

Naples, FL 34109

239.566.3535 neafamily.com

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THE ARTS DIRECTORY

ART/ PHOTOGRAPHY Center for the Arts of Bonita Springs (239) 495-8989 The Center for the Arts of Bonita Springs offers a wide variety of art and art related classes for both children and adults. Saturday and after school classes include art, theater, dance and more. The six studios provide opportunities to explore mediums from oil, acrylic and watercolor painting to collage, clay, sculpture, glass and pottery; as well as photography, printmaking and computer arts.

House of Gaia • (239) 272-6152

Vino’s Picasso • (239) 431-8750

House of Gaia is a non-profit community learning center offering art, music and movement classes for children as well as yoga, theatre and classes for homeschoolers. House of Gaia provides a safe, fun and creative environment and offers educational programs for children, parents and individuals. The organization works to empower students to connect to each other and to the global community.

Vino’s Picasso is SWFL’s first and favorite BYOB paint studio, art gallery and wine bar. Local artists guide novices through a different theme each night in a casual, fun and eclectic environment. No artistic talent needed. The perfect way for mom to unwind!

Located at 2367 Vanderbilt Beach Road, #805, Naples. Check https://vinospicasso.com for schedule and more information.

My Gym (239) 431-6499

The von Liebig Art Center (239) 262-6517

My Gym offers a “Learn, Create and Explore Art” class for children ages 3-6. Much more than just art, children learn something new about the arts, an artist, a foreign country, an animal, the world as they create a work of art to express themselves. My Gym is located at 13020 Livingston Road, Suite 17 in Naples.

The Naples Art Association is committed to enriching and facilitating art in the community of Southwest Florida, we’re helping you “Imagine! Discover! Create!” The 2014-2015 season includes a full roster of art classes and workshops for children to teens as well as adults, available for registration now. The Naples Art Association, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, operates The von Liebig Art Center, located at 585 Park Street in downtown Naples. Register for classes online anytime or in person, Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Art supply lists for individual classes and profiles on instructors are at NaplesArt.org.

Understand Photography (239) 263-7001 Understand Photography provides photography lessons to photographers who prefer step by step, easy to understand instructions. The school’s mission and motto is “We Simplify the Technical.” Students can learn at their own pace, at the studio in Naples, on location or in the privacy of their own home via online classes. Workshops for teens as well as adults are offered.

DANCE Backstage Dance Academy (239) 566-3535

Fal l Fun With KidzAct! A season of classes after school or weekends, ages 4 and up!

Acting, Voice, Dance and Production Classes for Our Fall Tradition –

The Nutcracker Goes Pop!

Performance dates: December 12-14 & 19-21 Class schedules online at www.naplesplayers.org and click on Learn!

For audition appointments or to register by credit card, call 239-434-7340, Ext 10

Naples Players Youth Theatre

The Naples Players at Sugden Community Theatre 701 5th Avenue South, Naples, FL 34102 52

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Whether you’re enrolled in one of the children’s combo classes, Ballet, Tap, Jazz, Hip Hop, Lyrical, Modern, Acro or a Broadway Jazz class all students are taught by the professional staff. Girls and boys ages 2 and older who are new to dance, want to get back into dance or who have been dancing for years are welcome. Stop by and visit or friendly staff at 5400 Jaeger Road, Unit 1 or visit the website at www. bdaNaples.com for more information.

Center for the Arts of Bonita Springs • (239) 495-8989 The Center for the Arts of Bonita Springs offers a wide variety of art and art related classes for both children and adults. Saturday and after school classes include art, theater, dance and more.

Collier County Parks & Rec • (239) 252-4000 The County Parks & Recreation Dept. offers a variety of options for dance students of every age and level at different county parks and community centers. Check www. colliergov.net for schedule and registration information.

Dance Arts by Maria • (239) 513-6999 Dance Arts by Maria, Inc. teaches a love and appreciation for the art of dance to all ages and levels of students. Dancers between the ages of 2-18 can learn ballet, tap, jazz, hip hop, contemporary, and lyrical. In addition to recreational classes the studio offers multiple performance team opportunities and an award winning competitive team. New this fall is a mommy and me class for toddlers and their parents. The studio participates in charitable events throughout Naples so keep an eye out for our dancers. For more information please contact the studio 239-5136999 or email naplesdancearts.com. To keep up to date check out our Facebook, Instagram, or Twitter pages @naplesdancearts

MUSIC & THEATRE Center for the Arts of Bonita Springs (239) 495-8989 The Center for the Arts of Bonita Springs offers a wide variety of art and art related classes for both children and adults. Saturday and after school classes include art, theater, dance and more.

Gulfshore Playhouse • (239) 261-7529 Gulfshore Playhouse Education serves Southwest Florida through a wide variety of unique educational opportunities. The Playhouse’s educational programming provides people from the diverse community accessibility to the art of theatre. Program offerings for youth grades pre-K to 12 range from STAR (Student Theatre Artist in Residence) theatre classes, summer camps, and productions to ThinkTheatre in-school and classroom programs. Gulfshore Playhouse also provides a variety of educational opportunities for adults, from Synergy Series audience enrichment programs to professional internships.

Kidz Act Youth Theatre of The Naples Players (239) 434-7340, Ext. 39 KidzAct programs are offered year round in three sessions: Summer, Fall and Winter/Spring. For younger students, six levels of skill/showcase classes are offered in singing, dancing, acting and theatre etiquette. Teen programs in song, dance and acting are also offered. KidzAct production classes present six full productions for advanced students, ranging from theatre for young audiences to teen musicals and “Shakespeare on the Plaza.” Located at 701 5th Avenue South, Naples, Florida, 34102.

The Music Studio of Naples • (239) 537-6209 The Music Studio is your resource for private music instruction–all instruments and styles are offered. Specializing in voice and piano, The Music Studio of Naples offers Mommy and Me instruction for ages 4 and up. Located at 255 Airport Road South in Naples. Check musicstudionaples.com for additional information.

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FOR MORE INFORMATION:

Windmill Creek Ac a d e m y

CHILD CARE SERVICES

Play and Education

Now Enrolling

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Kristi-Leigh Lyon

We will furnish:

18 Holes of Golf Plates, forks, napkins & candles Tables & Chairs Drinks: Coke, Sprite, etc.

Only $10.00 per person Bi (the Birthday Child is Free and gets 1 year of free golf) These figures are based upon a minimum of 10 people. We will require 10 days notice.

Thank you!

Speech-Language Pathologist Diagnostic Evaluations • Therapeutic Intervention Family Training Home/Community-Based Pediatric Communication Intervention and Support

2205 E. Tamiami Trail Naples, FL 34112

(239)

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253-1290 Healthy Hands Cooking Classes For Health Conscious Families

Coming in October

FALL FUN

Call 239-514-0338 for info

more info at: www.sagegarden healthykids.us joannpiano @gmail.com

SWIM LESSONS Group/Private/ Your Home or Mine

Red Cross Instructor Lifeguard/CPR/1st Aid

Lessons for all ages!

Specializing in frightened swimmers Collier County References Available WE H TEAC S! LT ADU

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Not if we can help it.

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the best of

BEACH, GOLF AND TENNIS

New Listing Old Naples New Construction

$2,890,000

This 4 BR + Study + Bonus Room/4.5 BA pool home is offered for under $800/sq. ft.

Classic Old Florida style custom residence with anticipated completion date at month’s end.

Enviable location with easy access to the beach, restaurants, shops, plus golf views with golf & tennis nearby! Call, email or text for features list, detail of finishes, floor plan, or to view in person!

Exclusively offered by Karen Coney Coplin, Realtor, 239.777.4093

Common Wisdom

Be kind to people and animals too. Laugh a lot. Just tell the truth.

Approach love and cooking with reckless abandon. Clean up your own mess. Wish upon a star. Please your dentist and floss your teeth. Read a good book – or two (and read to a child!). Good health is priority #1. Lend a hand. Give blood. Call your mom and dad, or kids. Take the dog for long walks and smile at who you meet. Be a friend. Don’t drink and drive. Let art color your life. Be gentle with the earth. Cut the drama and don’t go to extremes. Never look back unless you are planning to go there. Be thankful.

Quotes to ponder for the changing seasons: “Like a welcome summer rain, humor may suddenly cleanse and cool the earth, the air and you.” ~Langston Hughes “No spring nor summer beauty hath such grace as I have seen in one autumnal face.” ~John Donne And...when selling or buying real estate in Naples and surrounds, call upon KAREN CONEY COPLIN for WELL-INFORMED, RESPONSIVE & ENTHUSIASTIC service.

Karen Coney Coplin, Realtor Direct: 239.777.4093 Email: NaplesKCC@gmail.com

Happily celebrating my 20th year as a Naples real estate professional!

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NEAPOLITANfamily • September 2014 Award-winning Realtor. Award-winning service.

8/22/14 10:57 AM