September 2021 digital issue

September 2021 Complimentar y

Annual Arts Directory

neafamily.com 1 Explore arts opportunities for every age in our community

NEAPOLITANfamily • September 2021

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 2, 2021 REGISTER. 7:00 AM - 10:30 AM FUNDRAISE. JETBLUE PARK TRANSFORM LIVES. PRESENTING SPONSOR:

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NEAPOLITANfamily • September 2021

HEALING ACTIVITIES FOR FAMILIES AND KIDS ®

Helping Hands•Caring Hearts•Healing Support

Divorce Care Support Group for kids and their parents Weekly on Tuesdays, 4:30 PM - 5:30 PM Aunt Janet’s House at Avow, 1095 Whippoorwill Lane, Naples ®

Teen Camp for ages 13 - 17 who have experienced the death of a loved one Friday - Sunday, November 5 - 7 Transportation provided; limited spaces

Visit to Shy Wolf Sanctuary for ages 7 - 12 Sunday, November 21, 8:45 AM - 2:00 PM Transportation provided

Just for Fun: Avow-loween Trick or Treating!

Friday, October 22, 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM Candy and fun at Avow! No RSVP required

Phone: (239) 261-4404 Email: AvowKids@avowcares.org Caring for Collier County - and you - since 1983.

Avowcares.org

NEAPOLITANfamily • September 2021

Funding provided in part by All activities are free. Contact us for details and to RSVP: avowkids@avowcares.org or (239) 261-4404 neafamily.com

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September 2021 TABLE OF CONTENTS

in every issue . . .

7

FROM THE PUBLISHER

8

YOUR COMMUNITY

11

COLLIER COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOLS UPDATE

25

CALENDAR

12 When Your Kid Wants to Quit. How to tell when a child should quit dance, music, or theater, or when they are just having a bad day, along with tips on supporting your artsy child.

by Leigh Ann Newman

on the cover…

14 The Art of Knitting. The pandemic and Tom Daley’s Olympic knitting are largely responsible for the recent surge in popularity of this handicraft. Find out how to start and why you should keep going.

by Anna Snyder Olivia Barcela is 16 years old and a junior at Gulf Coast High School. She plays the piano and cello. Olivia has won several international piano competitions and has performed at renowned venues such as Carnegie Hall and Ehrbar Hall in Vienna, Austria. She currently plays both piano and cello with the Naples Youth Symphonia. Olivia loves to travel and spend time with friends and family.

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17 Arts Directory. Explore the opportunities and benefits of arts education for every age in our community.

22 Let’s Go Surfing Now. Ride along with the author’s family as they learn to surf in Daytona Beach.

by Karen T. Bartlett

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

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

Now accepting applications for enrollment, ages 2-5!

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

791 Harbour Drive, Naples, FL 34103 4

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

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(239) 649-1811

NEAPOLITANfamily • September 2021

Returning to “normal” may not be easy for our children and teens.

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rise in children

Don’t ignore the signs that your child may be struggling with their thoughts and feelings.

For over 50 years, DLC has been helping our community with access to:

• Individual & Family Therapy

• Psychiatric & Medication Evaluation & Management • 24/7 Emergency Services & Crisis Stabilization

• Children’s Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP) • In-Home Services and more

6075 BATHEY LANE | NAPLES, FL 34116

Click or Call to Connect to Care Today

DLCenters.org | 239-455-8500 NEAPOLITANfamily • September 2021

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NEAPOLITANfamily • September 2021

from the publisher… the parenting magazine devoted to collier county

P.O. Box 110656 Naples, FL 34108 info@neafamily.com 2020

2020

2020

2020

Co-Publisher Stacy Nicolau snicolau@neafamily.com 239-370-5333 Co-Publisher Leigh Ann Newman lanewman@neafamily.com 239-272-0529 Travel Editor Karen T. Bartlett mostlykidsguides@gmail.com 239-595-9026 Feature Writer Anna Snyder Digital Editor Claudia Metsch Editorial submissions are welcome. We reserve the right to edit, reject, or comment editorially on all material contributed. We cannot be responsible for return of any unsolicited materials. Articles and advertisements in Neapolitan Family do not necessarily reflect the opinion of the publisher nor does the publisher assume responsibility for statements made by our advertisers or editorial contributors. Acceptance of advertising by Neapolitan Family does not constitute an endorsement of the products, services, or information. We do not knowingly present any product or service that is fraudulent or misleading in nature. Neapolitan Family is available free of charge at distribution points throughout Collier County as well as digitally at neafamily.com. Neapolitan Family is ©2021 by Neapolitan Family Publishing LLC. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part without written permission is strictly prohibited.

NEAPOLITANfamily • September 2021

THIS MONTH The Healing Power of the Arts When I was a little girl, I loved to dance. I went to weekly lessons, and then attended a public high school that had a performing arts program. While in school, I also learned that I loved creative writing. My senior year, my schedule had a conflict where I had been chosen to be editor-in-chief of the yearbook, but the class time was the same block as dance company. I decided I likely would not become a professional dancer, but I realistically could become an editor. And so, here we are.

When I had children, I immersed them early into arts activities. My son had a fleeting interest in piano, and my two daughters started very young in dance class. My older daughter loved dance and progressed up into pointe classes.

She found the music, structure, and routine therapeutic, and she always was so peaceful after dance class. And then she realized, like me, that she likely would not pursue dance after high school, and she had other extracurricular activities that took priority. She has now found dance again, in the form of adult ballet classes, at college, and says that once again, these classes bring the respite she needs after two years of college during a pandemic.

My youngest daughter abandoned dance class at the age of 4, when she decided she could no longer tolerate the required tights. But, she discovered that she was artistic, in the form of drawing and painting. During COVID-19, she would take her oils and acrylics outside and paint for hours at a time.

We asked local professional artists for advice for parents whose children choose to quit taking their dance, music, or theater lessons, and share their answers on page 12. Why are we asking this in an issue that we are devoting to the arts?

Because, by exposing our children to the arts, we are teaching them not only to express their creativity and find their passion, but also that they don’t have to have talent to enjoy the arts as a healing space. During the pandemic, the arts became even more creative and accessible by surviving through Zoom, YouTube, TikTok, and TV. On page 14, Anna Snyder tells us how learning the art of knitting contributed to her well-being during the pandemic shutdowns, and that “yarn costs less than therapy.”

Whether they become artists or just enjoy concerts, museums, or theater, they will have had the experiences we provided them as children to appreciate the power of expression and healing in the arts.

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YOUR COMMUNITY NEWS & EVENTS

Super Saturday September Estuary Celebration Sept. 25, 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.

Rookery Bay Environmental Learning Center 300 Tower Road, Naples, FL 32113 https://RookeryBay.org Adults: $8 Children ages 6-12: $5 Children under 6: Free • Mini-guided Boat Tours: $20 per person.

Pre-registration required. Free entrance to the Environmental Learning Center with purchase of boat tour. Registration opens Sept. 7 at https://RookeryBay.org/#estuariesday • Kids’ Crafts and Activities • “What’s Under the Microscope” Lab for All Ages

Rediscover Rookery Bay During National Estuaries Month

• Interactive Trivia

hroughout the month of September, Rookery Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve invites families and community members to “Rediscover Rookery Bay” during the 2021 National Estuaries September Celebration. Starting Sept. 1, Rookery Bay begins the celebration of estuaries (where rivers meet the sea) by offering special discounts on eco-tours by boat and kayak as well as onsite and virtual activities at the Rookery Bay Environmental Learning Center.

National Estuaries September Celebration culminates on Saturday, Sept. 25, with a day of fun for all ages including mini-guided boat rides in the bay, a film festival, kids’ activities and crafts, interactive trivia with prizes, discounts in the nature store, and more from Rookery Bay’s partners in Naples’ coastal community.

Located just 15 minutes from downtown Naples, Rookery Bay Research Reserve encompasses 40% of Collier County’s most beautiful, naturally preserved coastline and includes 110,000 acres of land and water. Visitors can explore on foot, boat, and kayak or by visiting the state-of-the-art environmental learning center, filled with interesting and interactive coastal and natural history exhibits.

• Discounts in Nature Store

T

R

What is an Estuary?

ookery Bay Research Reserve has one of the most unique and beautiful mangrove-lined estuaries in North America. An estuary is a place where fresh water meets salt water, creating a super-productive habitat for wildlife and a prime nursery for fish, birds, and all kinds of marine animals. There are 29 National Estuarine Research Reserves in North America along the east coast, west coast, Great Lakes, Puerto Rico, and Alaska, protecting more

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• Scavenger Hunt • Rediscover Rookery Bay Film Festival • Touch Tank – “Estuary Encounter” • Guided Tours of Center Interactive Displays with Docents • Butterfly Garden • Coastal Partners Meet and Greet At the center, guests can learn about the waters, birds, and animal life of the reserve, as well as experience it hands-on with educators at the Estuary Encounter Touch Tank. Guests are encouraged to look, touch, or hold a sea star, sea urchin, giant conch snail, or pistol shrimp. Behind the center, a scenic overlook bridge leads to three loops of nature trails for all levels. While crossing the bridge, an observant visitor may get a special surprise and see a manatee, dolphin, or even a shark in the water below!

Visit https://rookerybay.org or call 239-530-5972. than 1.2 million acres. Each NERR offers a different type of habitat and experience, from the muddy marsh land of Mississippi to deep cold bays in Alaska. But, the one thing they all have in common is they are a refuge for animals, fish, birds, and even people. These unspoiled places are protected through a partnership with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Association and individual states. The reserves all share the same mission of long-term protection and preservation of these coastal treasures through scientific research, monitoring, education, and training.

NEAPOLITANfamily • September 2021

2021 Walk for Wishes Set for Oct. 2 at JetBlue Park

W

alk For Wishes is a nationwide Make-A-Wish fundraiser that celebrates the more than 315,000 wishes that already have been granted, while raising funds for future wishes. It’s a family-friendly event powered by wish families, volunteers, companies, donors, and friends.

Make-A-Wish Southern Florida is continuing its mission of creating life-changing wishes for children with critical illnesses by hosting the 11th Annual Walk For Wishes, presented by Lake Michigan Credit Union, on Oct. 2 at JetBlue Park, at 11500 Fenway South Drive in Fort Myers from 7-10:30 a.m. The fun-filled day starts with registration at 7 a.m. and the 5K Walk/Run at 8 a.m. Family Fun Day, sponsored by Publix Super Markets, is included in the registration fee, and will start immediately after the walk/run.

Advisory board members and co-chairs of the Walk For Wishes, Lori Teague of American Financial Network and Theresa Fletcher of Hotwire Communications, are thrilled to help grant the wishes of children battling critical illnesses in the Southwest Florida community. The average cost of a wish in Southwest Florida is $6,000, making this year’s fundraising goal over $150,000 (25 wishes).

Last year, the Walk For Wishes granted more than 19 wishes to children in Lee, Collier, Glades, and Hendry counties. To protect the health of wish kids and their families during the pandemic, most of the wishes were gift wishes like backyard playsets, puppies, an above-ground pool, and online shopping sprees. In a typical year, wishes fall into four main categories: to have, to be, to go, and to meet. It is only because of fundraisers like the Walk For Wishes that Make-A-Wish can continue to grant each and every heartfelt wish.

To register visit https://walkforwishessfla.net and choose the Walk For Wishes Southwest Florida event. Gather friends, family, and colleagues to make a team to help celebrate Make-A-Wish NEAPOLITANfamily • September 2021

and fundraise to grant wishes. Right now, there are more than 30 kids waiting in the Southwest Florida area for their wishes to be granted.

Our Walk For Wishes sponsors have committed to helping grant these wishes that are waiting. Thank you to our sponsors – Presenting Sponsor: Lake Michigan Credit Union; Family Fun Day: Publix Super Markets; Benefactor Society Member: Mary and Patrick McClain Foundation; Hope Sponsor: Best Home Services; Strength Sponsors: Hotwire Communications and Alico Citrus; and Joy Sponsors: Market Rate Mortgages, Trusted Choice, Curran Young Construction, and Sprouts Farmers Market. We are grateful to our media sponsors: Neapolitan Family magazine, WINK News, and IHeartRadio’s 105.5 The Beat. Thank you also to our printing sponsor, Blue Ocean Press.

Without our sponsors, participants, and partners we would be unable to reach our goal of granting 25 wishes this year. Granting wishes is only possible with support from our community. A wish replaces fear with hope, restores a child’s strength to fight, and inspires the courage to overcome their illness.

Visit www.wish.org/sfla or call 239-992-9474.

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YOUR COMMUNITY NEWS & EVENTS

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

• We pay cash on the spot.

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

13560 Tamiami Trail N. #4, Naples

239-596-6096

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

www.onceuponachildnaples.com

Mackenzie Hummer (right) inspired Clips for Cancer in 2018, and every year shaves the head of Armando Llechu, Lee Health’s chief officer, hospital operations and women and children’s services.

Clips for Cancer Raising Funds for Sick Kids in September

D

uring September, Clips for Cancer is raising money to benefit kids diagnosed with cancer at Golisano Children’s Hospital.

Each Friday in September, local community leaders will shave their heads, and the shaves will be hosted on Facebook Live from Great Clips salons.

For details visit www.BarbarasFriends.org/ClipsForCancer.

Full & Part Time Programs 8:30 am - 2:30 pm Extended Hours Available NOW ACCEPTING SUMMER VPK

239-593-6668 www.childmont.com 2535 Northbrooke Plaza Dr.

Naples, FL 34119 childmont101@gmail.com (Across from Super Target)

little hands...BIG achievements

Toddlers 12 - 36 mos Primary 3 yrs to Kinder VPK 4/5 yrs 10

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(239) 593-6668 2535 Northbrooke Plaza Dr. www.childmont.com Naples, FL 34119 License # C20CO0018 License # C20CO0018 NEAPOLITANfamily • September 2021

COLLIER COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOLS

Theater students presented mask designs to their classmates as part of an activity during the first week of school.

Coming Soon to a Theater Near You…

C

ollier County Public Schools is partnering with local organizations to bring theater education to all middle and high schools this school year. Over the summer, teachers spent two days in downtown Naples training for this new opportunity for students.

“We’ve been training teachers on strategies they can use in their classroom to help bring equity to all of our programs across the secondary schools in CCPS,” explains Skip Pardee, CCPS fine arts coordinator. “Some of these teachers are brand new to theater education, while others have had decades of experience.”

“I have had so much fun reconnecting and rekindling my theater roots,” says Cindy Gomez, an English teacher at Lely High School. “Being able to open that door to everybody, whether they’re a sixth grader or a senior, you can bring that to life in front of them.”

In middle school, students will have the opportunity to join theater through clubs on campus. High schoolers can expect to see course offerings. They will study character development and movement, in addition to production elements such as props, lighting, costumes, makeup, and music.

“There’s so much,” adds Gomez. ”It’s not just words on a page; it’s not just standing in front. It’s opening the whole door of this opportunity to everybody.”

Theater teachers will be participating in further professional development this fall. “We have incredible community partners which assist with top-tier training for our students and our staff,” states Superintendent Kamela Patton, Ph.D. Those partnerships include Florida Gulf Coast University’s theater department, Gulfshore Playhouse, Naples Performing Arts Center, and The Naples Players.

Patton shares the reasoning for this new endeavor: “Teamwork, confidence, public speaking – all life skills reinforced through theater education.”

NEAPOLITANfamily • September 2021

W E ’ R E H E R E TO H E L P YO U

Find the Perfect Community F O R YO U R FA M I LY

T RACEY ALB ERT R E A LT O R ®

(239) 572-8643 Tracey@LiveParadiseLiveNaples.com LiveParadiseLiveNaples.com

D O W N I N G - F R Y E R E A LT Y, I N C .

8950 FONTANA DEL SOL WAY, SUITE 100, NAPLES, FL 34109 neafamily.com

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THE ARTS

O

By Leigh Ann Newman

When Your Kid Wants to Quit

n the drive home from ballet class, your child suddenly states: “I hate dance. I am quitting.” You respond, “Oh no you’re not! I just paid for four months of classes, and you will go to every class even if I have to drag you there!” It’s a scenario that plays out in many families, and usually ends with tears and anger on both sides. It doesn’t have to be that way.

If you are the parent of a child active in the arts – dance, theater, music – it’s important to understand the difference between a child having a bad day and a child who truly needs to quit, as well as how to best support our artsy kids.

Why do kids quit the arts?

There are different reasons for quitting at various life stages, according to Maria Ellis Nave, owner of Dance Arts by Maria in Naples. Toddlers may not be developmentally ready for the activity, while middle schoolers often develop different interests, and high schoolers are grappling with increased academic demands, Nave says.

Kids often want to make changes during the late middle school and early high school years, according to Dr. Andrea Pellegrini, Psy.D., a psychologist with Healthcare Network of Southwest Florida. “Kids become more aware of their options. They have more social pressures, and more pressure academically,” she explains.

When a student decides to leave a theater production, for example, it usually is because they are overwhelmed, according to Steven Calakos, director of education, Gulfshore Playhouse in Naples. “It’s typically because of other commitments, such as school or sports.

I find that this generation of student aims to be so well-rounded that they are spread too thin.” He also notes that kids constantly compare themselves to others across the globe via social media, and consequently feel inadequate about their own abilities.

Sometimes a child wants to stop an activity because “they were never interested to begin with,” says Nave.

“The idea of living vicariously through your child is very dangerous,” Pellegrini warns. “You have to step back and reflect: Is this something they want or I want? Who is this for?”

The signs Sometimes the signs that your child wants to quit are obvious, while others are more difficult to detect. Here is what to look for: • Lack of participation. “The one that is ready to quit is the one hanging at the back, the one hanging off the barre,” says Nave.

• Resisting going to class. “If they are fighting you every time to go to class, it’s going to make it a miserable experience,” Nave says.

• Not practicing. This is a red flag especially for music students who are expected to practice at home. “If they aren’t practicing, they won’t progress,” says Wendy Willis, who has taught flute privately for more than 40 years and operates a flute studio in Naples. The lack of progress discourages students, who see their peers improving, which pushes them to quit.

Not practicing could also indicate another issue for a child taking private lessons. “If a student shows interest at first, but then 12

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it seems to wane, it may be a sign that a student needs a new teacher,” says Willis.

• Declining academic performance and/or a personality change.

These are huge red flags that your kid needs a break, and should be taken seriously, according to Pellegrini.

If your child’s grades haven’t dropped and you haven’t seen a major personality shift, do some more digging before deciding if quitting is the answer. Have a conversation with your child. “Stay calm. Don’t react,” Pellegrini advises. “Don’t say: ‘You’re sticking with it’ or ‘I’ve paid so much money, you aren’t quitting.’ Talk about where this is coming from. Ask ‘What happened today that made you change y o u r mind?’

Just be open to talking about it.”

She notes the importance of giving the child a voice in the decision. “Engaging the child in the problem-solving process is very empowering for them,” says Pellegrini.

Spur a conversation with your kid by asking questions, such as why they want to quit and how they want to manage the situation. Not only will you learn what your child is thinking, but you also help them develop communication skills. “Communication is a real life skill, and adolescents don’t communicate very well,” adds Pellegrini.

NEAPOLITANfamily • September 2021

How to support your child There are a number of things parents can do to ensure children have a positive experience in the arts.

Provide encouragement. “Rather than telling your child to go practice in the other room, ask them to play for you, and even if it’s horrible, give positive feedback,” says Willis.

Get involved. “Run lines, play songs, practice choreography – this makes it a fun activity that you can do with your kids,” says Craig Price, director of community education and wellness at The Naples Players. “Not only are you involved and know more about what your kid is doing in the class, you have given your student a huge advantage as they are more prepared and more confident, and more likely to succeed.”

Watch YouTube. Nave encourages her dancers to practice at home using YouTube videos she created when in-person classes were paused during COVID-19. “A lot of little ones are apprehensive at the beginning, but then they go home and watch the videos, and they love it,” she says.

Talk to your kid. “It’s so important when a child leaves a lesson or rehearsal that a parent engages and asks how it went, what did they learn, and if they had fun,” suggests Lori Oliver, artistic director and founder, Naples Performing Arts Center.

“Parents should have check-in conversations constantly with their kids,” Calakos says.

Talk to the teachers. “We love to talk directly about problems or difficulties before anything gets so serious that a kid has to quit,” says Price. “Talk to us early about the problems you are having. If you wait until the last minute, it’s too late. If you can’t continue, the earlier you tell us, the better.” For example, a child with a solo may realize after a few rehearsals that they don’t want to perform a song on their own. “We can change that, rather than have a kid quit,” he says.

Willis advises a private conversation with your child’s teacher, without your kid present. “Tell the teacher that your child is thinking of quitting, and ask if you kid shows natural talent. There’s a difference between interest and talent. Not having talent doesn’t mean they can’t get better, but if they have both interest and talent, they can excel. Everyone has a different level of talent, and it’s just a matter of finding where that talent lies.”

Understand motivations. Knowing what your child wants out of the experience will help you and their teachers guide them. Do they have long-term aspirations and goals, or are they happy just participating in the activity?

“Why is your child starting theater? Is it that they just want to socialize, or do they truly have a talent they want to improve on? As parents, teachers, and directors, we need to know these motivating factors,” Calakos says.

Many students arrive at a point in their development as a dancer, musician, actor, or singer where some of their peers are taking the activity to the next level, and they may feel pressure to either progress as well or NEAPOLITANfamily • September 2021

quit. Let your child know that it’s okay to participate simply for the joy of it, rather than to win awards or work toward a career. “We have this obsession with winning,” explains Pellegrini. “We don’t focus on the effort and the process. There’s [too much] focus on the ultimate goal.”

Establish expectations. This is key to helping your child honor a commitment to, for example, a theater production. Give your child a visual plan to help them stay focused, such as a wall calendar of rehearsals and shows, advises Calakos. And let the director know as soon as possible about any potential conflicts. “I’m more understanding if I hear about scheduling conflicts up front,” he says.

Hire a private teacher. If financially feasible, private instruction can be a game changer, according to Willis. “I find that the kids who start lessons earlier tend to stick with it. They learn how to handle an instrument at an earlier age, and that gives them self-confidence. I teach music, but I also teach self-confidence. If they feel confident in something, no matter what it is, it’s going to overlap into so many other areas of their life.”

Take a break. “People don’t realize that there is burn out even with 3-year-olds,” Nave says. “Does the student really want to quit or do they just need a break? Taking time off is better than quitting.”

“It’s good to take a breather and then come back refreshed,” Willis agrees, but notes that it can be difficult to come back after an extended break.

For some students at Naples Performing Arts Center taking breaks is commonplace. They will, for example, play on a travel soccer team, and when the season is over, return to NPAC for a theater production.“Our philosophy is that a child should be able to experience a lot of things,” Oliver says, adding that the school encourages students to try different activities without spreading themselves too thin.

Quitting is not a bad word The word “quitting” has such negative connotations. How often do we tell our kids, or ourselves, “You’re not a quitter. Our family doesn’t quit.”? When my daughter told me she wanted to stop after three years of Irish dance, that was my initial reaction.

Luckily, I kept that to myself and what followed was a realization that she was right – it was time to go. She wanted to focus her time and energy on playing the flute, which is her passion.

“Parents are so afraid if a child quits an activity it reflects badly on their parenting,” Pellegrini says. “But in reality, there are some positive aspects to leaving an activity. It could make way for finding a new passion. It also teaches children how to make a life choice.”

Another positive outcome of quitting is more time, for academics, socializing, and family.

Helping kids discover what they are passionate about is the goal, according to Oliver. “Every kid needs to find their place, where they feel safe and comfortable. For each kid it is different. Sometimes a student will do a semester of voice lessons, and then decide they would rather play sports. We sit down and really work with the families to help the child find their place, what they are passionate about.”

LEIGH ANN NEWMAN is co-publisher of Neapolitan Family and the mother of a serious high school flute player who, at 10 years old, asked for permission to quit flute lessons. Her request was denied. neafamily.com

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THE ARTS

By Anna Snyder

The Art of

T

his issue marks six years of writing for Neapolitan Family, and September’s arts issue is always my favorite. As a type-A, task-oriented first born, I never considered myself an artist.

However, I do consider myself a lover of beauty. I love art for its own sake, and I love supporting artists; for me, art is the creation of something we collectively lacked – something beautiful that didn’t already exist, and the perfect expression of the reality that we – as human beings – were created to create.

My paternal grandmother (affectionately named Yoyo) lived in a perpetual cycle of creativity. A maker at heart, she kept several projects going at once: quilting, knitting, crocheting, baking, cooking, painting, gardening, the list goes on. Yoyo lived to make the world a more beautiful – and delicious – place. She was constantly learning and making; there was nothing she couldn’t do. And though she and my grandpa never had extra money, they lived like the richest of kings – celebrating at every turn, embracing visitors at any hour, and walking through life with open hands. As a child, I sought to emulate Yoyo, and when the time was right, she taught me to crochet and knit. Sitting on a faded floral sofa from the 1970s, she waited patiently through my eagerness, frustration, and eventual lightbulb moments when everything came together. There, in the freezing cold

Above: Winnie Snyder at Shirley’s Yarns & Crafts store in Hancock, Maine. Facing page: Winnie with Corry Pratt at the Maine Alpaca Experience farm in Unity, Maine. Photos by Anna Snyder

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lean-to room my grandfather had built, learning from her and creating together, my confusing, adolescent world somehow made sense.

Knitting in Florida I neglected knitting and crocheting for some 20 years, except for the occasional free crochet pattern. In January 2020, though, I got a call from my mother: My dad, the half marathon-running, healthy-eating, hard-working, invincible patriarch, was scheduled for a quadruple bypass in three days’ time. The news shocked me, and if it could happen to both my grandparents and my father, it could happen to me. I began eating mostly plant-based food, and I re-ignited my love of knitting – a calming, meditative, daily practice that brings me so much joy. As it turns out, my knitting renewal happened in the nick of time – knitting (and running) contributed to my well-being during pervasive shutdowns in 2020. As many knitters say: “10 rows a day keeps the crazy away.”

And yet, knitting may seem like a bit of a head scratcher in light of the subtropical climate in Southwest Florida. Though we still gravitate toward wool sweaters at various points in the year, usage of these items remains thin. The answer for many knitters lies in fiber and project selection. I visited Hooked on Ewe Yarn Shop in Fort Myers.

Susan O’Reilly, a shop associate, shared various fiber suggestions for our sweat-inducing weather: silk, cotton, linen, and various blends all provide garment properties appropriate for Southwest Florida.

“Ravelry (an online social network of fiber artists and designers) provides a wonderful community of designers and fiber artists with hundreds of thousands of projects – including garments we can wear year-round in Florida,” O’Reilly says.

Hooked on Ewe provides in-person instruction, along with weekly knitting circles. “We have many seasonal knitters, as well as knitting tourists,” she notes. As such, the shop offers fibers, colors, and patterns that work well in our climate.

Through a program at my church, I connected with Mariette Hayden, an experienced knitter. She taught me that we knit projects one stitch at a time. She places Post-it notes around the section or line she is working on and doesn’t let her eyes read what is coming next. “That way, I don’t get overwhelmed trying to figure out what I’m supposed to do next or trying to discern something new that I don’t know how to do. I knit one row at a time.”

Hayden encourages beginning knitters to buy quality yarn. “I enjoyed my finished projects so much more when I invested in high NEAPOLITANfamily • September 2021

Spinal Health is imperative for a healthy life

Looking after your, and your families health, also includes keeping check of your spinal health. Just

quality yarn. It’s easier and more comfortof support to knitters is nourishing for me. liketowe check things child's teeth, eyes and ears, it’s important Seeing to pay attention to ear-to-ear any able knit.”

She also adviseslike newour knitters a knitter grinning in their Regular any spinal which tochanges start with in thetheir basics.spines.

“Even though it’s checks can help with early detection of finished sweater isissues, what keeps me going.”

Parroccini advises more excitingscoliosis. to start on a All pattern, is best be checked before the age of 10 and boys includes girlsit should before 12. beginners to knit for the sake of knitting. “We’re so encouraged to knit a large square, purl a large square, and We also treat adults for scoliosis and kyphosis issues that have gone uncorrected and worsened in our society to do what we’re already good finally, practice the stockinette stitch (knit a over the years. at, and it can be tough to learn something row, purl a row).

Creating three large squares new,” she says. “We’re also taught that craft will encourage muscle memory and provide Dr. T Foster Bryant aEarly frame of detection reference.” & treatment can make all the difference is only worth doing if we can leverage it South Florida’s Premier ScoliCare Provider for an income or for social media. There’s Early detection and then early intervention leads to better patient outcomes including wider something beautiful about learning a new Knitting designs opportunities for treatment.

Particularly for children or adolescents who are rapidly growing, oraolder hobby and recognizing that it’s journey.”

When I began to knit regularly again inadults early 2020, still didn’t the quality of life, earlier detection can provide access to a range of withI pain andunderstand decreased Spinal Health is imperative for a healthy life Visiting Maine as a knitter importance of project selection and pur- options non-surgical scoliosis treatment including modern 3D bracing and exercise programs, Looking after your, and your families health, also includes keeping check of your informs spinal health.

Knitting my travels.Just I visited chasing yarn. Yarn weight, yardage, and leading to incredibler treatment outcomes.

Our approach uses the latest technological advanced parents in Mainetothis past summer, fiber all the difference theour finished likemake we check things to like child's teeth, eyes and ears, it’s important my to pay attention any system NOT traditional bracing that does not have corrective outcomes. andany my passion knittingwhich spurred me on project.

In and the I would choose yarn I checks changes inpast, their spines.

Regular can help with early detection of spinalfor issues, then, there have been huge changes in the to venture out beyond my typical comfort liked and hope I found a project to match it.

The traditional treatment isshould wait until itchecked gets back enough for surgeryYIKES! includes scoliosis.

All girls be before thetoward age of 10 and boys before 12. craft.

There’s been a trend giving zone.

I discovered the Maine Yarn Cruise, This misguided process caused frustration Wea also treat adults for scoliosis kyphosis issues that have andcrawl worsened knitters more information about the gone fin- uncorrected an annual yarn shop where fiber artists and level of dissatisfaction with the end and ished garment, including information about can get stamps in their passports at local product.

Now, pattern selection drives yarn over the years. the yarn and its structure, size and fit, and shops around the state in hopes of winning purchases. I choose patterns with many sizes techniques.

I think designers are responding prizes. Through this, I met with Corry Pratt, from accessible designers willing to help TOP 20 SCOLIBRACE PROVIDERS IN THE THE WORLD Early detection & treatment can all the to thismake by providing moredifference access because the owner of the Maine Alpaca Experience when I have a question – patterns I will love INTERNATIONAL PEDIATRIC CERTIFIED knitters expect it, but because we want farm inincluding Unity, Maine, and her more than creating and using. andCHIROPRACTIC Early detection then early intervention leads to also better patient outcomes wider POSTURE AND SPINAL DEFORMITY FOCUS to welcome new peopleor intoadolescents the craft and seewho40are alpacas.

Theirgrowing, thin, hollow fibers One such designer Jennifer Parroccini opportunities for istreatment.

Particularly for children rapidly or hair older them be successful with our designs. I love keep them cool in the summer and warm in in Portland, Oregon. “I started knitting adults with pain and decreased quality of life, earlier detection can provide access to continued a range of on page 16 teaching and coaching, and so providing lots seriously about 15 years ago, and since

non-surgical scoliosis treatment options including modern 3D bracing and exercise programs, leading to incredibler treatment outcomes. Our approach uses the latest technological advanced system and NOT traditional bracing that does not have corrective outcomes.

The traditional treatment is wait until it gets back enough for surgery- YIKES!

Corrective, Non-surgical Treatment for Scoliosis

TOP 20 SCOLIBRACE PROVIDERS IN THE THE WORLD INTERNATIONAL CHIROPRACTIC PEDIATRIC CERTIFIED POSTURE ANDedit SPINAL DEFORMITY s Add-ons Help Last was made 1 hour ago byFOCUS Erin Bryant Image options 1

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Dr. T. Foster Bryant has been taking care of the Naples Community for 18 years and providing long-term results for his patients.

He believes in FIND IT EARLY and FIX IT EARLY. Just as we have our children's teeth, eyes and hearing checked – we must check their spine! We want to ensure the healthiest version of them imaginable.

Mention this ad for 6291Dr.Naples Blvd., Naples • https://movmntnaples.com T Foster Bryant South Florida’s Premier ScoliCare Provider

NEAPOLITANfamily • September 2021

Spinal Health is imperative for a healthy life

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continued from page 15

the winter, making it an ideal fiber with which to knit – and alpacas boast 22 distinctive wool colors across an array of neutrals. Pratt echoed so many others in her love of knitting: “It’s meditative. I love creating. I often bring a chair and my knitting to the middle of the alpaca pasture. There’s nothing I love more.”

I also visited Shirley’s Yarns & Crafts store in Hancock, Maine – a shop with a rich history of providing yarn and craft supplies to local families. Alicia Thomas, one of Shirley’s relatives and a store associate, encourages beginning knitters to pick a small project they’re excited about. “We want knitters to experience success. We suggest smaller projects for beginners so that they can quickly see projects come together.”

• Top Rated VPK Program

• Preschool Classes for 2-5 Year Olds

• Summer Camp

• Owned/Operated by a Certified Teacher with 25 Years Experience

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DCF license #C20CO7400

868 94th Ave. N. Naples, FL 34108

www.LittlePeoplesSchool.info

Resources for the beginning knitter Unlike many other pursuits, knitting is not restrictive. You can bring your project bag wherever you go. (Hello, Tom Daley knitting at the Olympics!) The sun doesn’t have to be shining, and you don’t have to sit in a certain place or use expensive tools. Additionally, YouTube has made skills available to the masses. Knitting is accessible – starting out doesn’t involve a giant investment of money, time or space.

These days, the national craft stores have moved instruction almost exclusively online. And though there are plenty of YouTube tutorials, it is best to seek personalized instruction, particularly when just starting to knit (or crochet).

• Hooked on Ewe Yarn Shop, www.hookedoneweyarn.com.

This local yarn shop offers a reasonable hourly rate on individual classes for knitters of all levels. Beginning knitters can purchase 3 1-hour sessions for $60, which is a reasonable amount of time to learn the basic skills and get started.

• Alliance for the Arts, www.artinlee.org. On Sept. 18 the Alliance for the Arts in Lee County is hosting a beginning knitting workshop for ages 12 and older.

• TakeLessons, https://TakeLessons.com. This website connects individual teachers with prospective students. Various knitting teachers offer individualized, in-person knitting instruction in Naples.

• Knit Picks, www.knitpicks.com. A great middle-of-the-road site offering quality yarn at reasonable prices.

• Ravelry, www.ravelry.com. This site connects designers with fiber artists, and fiber artists with each other. Knitters can rate patterns for clarity and difficulty, making selection a breeze.

To my fellow knitters, let’s make the world a more colorful, artistic, beautiful place together.

NEAPOLITANfamily • September 2021

THE ARTS DIRECTORY

advertising section

ARTIS-NAPLES

239-597-1900 • https://artisnaples.org

Artis-Naples is dedicated to making the arts a part of every local child’s life. With family-friendly concerts, youth music ensembles, field trips, classroom art-making, ArtSmart summer camp, and more, our thriving student education and enrichment programs are central to our organizational mission. For advanced student musicians, the Naples Philharmonic provides youth ensembles: orchestra, jazz orchestra, symphonia, and chorus.

BACKSTAGE DANCE ACADEMY

239-566-3535 • frontdesk@bdanaples.com • www.bdanaples.com

Backstage Dance Academy offers a professional dance education for girls and boys ages 2-18. Students can stretch their imaginations in our Children’s Division or nurture their skill and artistry in our Upper Level Division. Whether you’re enrolled in a ballet, pointe, tap, jazz, modern, or lyrical class, our professional instructors will teach a challenging and engaging class designed to inspire and transform each dancer. If you are interested in joining our dedicated dance family centered around a common love of dance, stop by and visit our friendly staff, or call us for more information on how you can bring the joy of dance into your child’s life. We look forward to meeting you.

CENTERS FOR THE ARTS BONITA SPRINGS 239-495-8989 • www.artcenterbonita.org

Founded in 1959, the Centers for the Arts Bonita Springs (CFABS) is committed to enriching the lives of the community by providing opportunities for artistic expression, education, and appreciation. CFABS has two locations: At the Old 41 Road Visual Arts Center patrons view fine art exhibitions and take part in painting, drawing, clay, and sculpture classes. At the Performing Arts Center on Bonita Beach Road patrons enjoy an array of concerts, theater, comedy, film, lectures, and youth education classes. CFABS offers year-round programing, plus three top-rated art festivals in January, February, and March, which draw artists from around the world.

CITY OF NAPLES

239-213-3020 • www.naplesgov.com The City of Naples offers a variety of activities for everyone from prekindergarten to adults all year long. Programs and specialty summer camps (for prekindergarten to teens) include visual arts, dance, writing, theater, and more.

LEAP ‘N LEARN CLASSES FOR AGES 2 TO 4 BALLET | POINTE | JAZZ | LYRICAL | TAP | MODERN

Call for available class times today! (239) 566-3535

13020 Livingston Road #8, Naples, FL 34105 | bdaNaples.com NEAPOLITANfamily • September 2021

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THE ARTS DIRECTORY

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FA L L CLASSES

START SEPT. 25 Singing, Acting & Dancing Improv & Comedy Audition Workshops Performances Inclusive Classes Private Lessons

SEPT

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Join us for a free Open House event on Saturday, September 4th from 12-2 pm to meet the instructors, tour the theatre, and learn more about our youth and teen programs at The Naples Players.

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NaplesPlayers.org 239.434.7340, Ext.136 T H E N A P L E S P L AY E R S | 7 0 1 5

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THE ARTS DIRECTORY

CHILDREN FOR THE ARTS THEATRE PROGRAM

239-571-3305 • tpoorman@childrenforthearts.com • www.childrenforthearts.com

Children for the Arts Theatre Program produces three plays throughout the school year at Pine Ridge Middle School. Productions are open to children ages 6-16. We encourage individual expression, and help children learn the fundamentals of acting, stage presence, working alongside their peers, and the development of self confidence. Children achieve skills that not only apply to the theater but also to public speaking and the development of leadership abilities. Productions running this year include Peter Pan, The Wizard of Oz, and Cinderella. For more information contact Tish Poorman, program director.

COLLIER COUNTY PARKS & RECREATION

239-252-4000 • www.collierparks.com

The Collier County Parks & Recreation Division offers a variety of programs involving the arts. Dance classes are offered at our community centers at affordable prices. The basics of ballet, jazz, tap, and dance technique are stressed for all students. We provide programming for all ages and abilities.

DANCE ARTS BY MARIA

239-513-6999 • admin@naplesdancearts.com • www.naplesdancearts.com 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. Virtual and in-person classes are available for our fall session. In addition to recreational classes, the studio offers multiple performance team opportunities and an award-winning competitive team. The studio participates in charitable events throughout Naples, so keep an eye out for our dancers. Check out our Facebook, Instagram, or Twitter pages @naplesdancearts.

GLOW DANCE & ART ACADEMY

929-429-9655 • info@glowfl.com • www.glowfl.com

Glow dance classes are taught by Iveta Lukosiute, a two-time World Professional Ten Dance Champion and five-time U.S. National Ten Dance Champion. Lukosiute was a professional dancer on the BBC series Strictly Come Dancing, as well as Dancing with the Stars, and So You Think You Can Dance. We offer a playful and relaxed environment where all can let loose, have fun, and learn a thing or two. We offer various dance, fine art, and yoga classes for all ages.

Let The Dancing Begin!

Tap, Jazz, Ballet, Acrobatics, Lyrical, Leap & Turn, Hip Hop and Adult Classes!

Team@hftdance.com • Htfdance.com bl

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THE ARTS DIRECTORY

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FALL CLASSES September through December at CFABS!

We welcome kids ages 3.5+ to our innovative Fall youth education program, which includes courses in Visual Arts: Drawing, Painting, Sculpture; Technology: Animation, 3D Printing, Music Production; Dance: Ballet, Tap, Hip Hop, Broadway. Plus, this season is packed full of great Theatrical opportunities, onstage and off! Check out our brand new courses: StageTech and Triple Threat (Sing/Dance/Act); workshops in Special FX Makeup, Fight Choreography and more!

2 Centers | 1 Mission | Arts for All Performing Arts Center: 10150 Bonita Beach Rd Visual Arts Center: 26100 Old 41 Rd

To register call 239.495.8989

Convenient Class Times: Homeschool · After School · Saturdays

artcenterbonita.org ·

GULFSHORE PLAYHOUSE

239-261-7529 • www.gulfshoreplayhouse.org Gulfshore Playhouse Education serves SWFL through a wide variety of unique educational opportunities. The playhouse’s educational programming provides people from the diverse community accessibility to the art of theater. Program offerings for youth grades pre-K to 12 range from STAR (Student Theatre Artist in Residence) theater 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.

HIT THE FLOOR DANCE COMPANY

201-681-1751 • team@htfdance.com • www.Htfdance.com

Hit the Floor Dance Company is where your dancer shines. With a structured, yet fun environment, your dancer will be exposed to everything dance provides such as joy, discipline, confidence, teamwork, the ability to express themselves through movement, and accountability. With professional teachers providing knowledge and love, this award-winning studio is waiting for you with open arms. We offer tap, jazz, ballet, acrobatics, hip hop, lyrical, musical theater, technique classes, and adult classes, so come through our door and Hit the Floor!

Coming Soon ...

Neapolitan Family’s 2021-22 Cover Kids Contest!

Our Programs Musical Theater Productions Dance Classes Dance Performance Teams Private Lessons: Vocal, Instrumental , Dance & Acting Summer Camps I'm A Star for anyone with physical or mental challenges

October 15-17th

Our Classes

November 19-21st

Tap Jazz Acrobatics Musical Theater Ballet Hip Hop Irish Dance

December 17-19th

Performances held in the MAC Theater at Community School of Naples Visit our website for tickets!

5450 YMCA Road, Naples, FL

(239) 325-8789

http://NaplesPerformingArtsCenter.com/ Naples Performing Arts Center is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization

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Subscribe to Neapolitan Family’s weekly enewsletter and be the first to know when the contest opens!

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THE ARTS DIRECTORY

The Naples School of Irish Dance “Where Dance Is an Adventure” Register NOW! First Class Free Open Enrollment – Join Anytime Accepting Ages 4+ The Naples School of Irish Dance 875 94th Ave. N., Naples FL 34108 Call 239-438-6226 or 516-314-7404 or email NaplesIrishDance@gmail.com

KIDZACT YOUTH THEATRE OF THE NAPLES PLAYERS 239-434-7340, ext. 136 • www.NaplesPlayers.org

The Naples Players KidzAct program is dedicated to creating a welcoming, family-friendly, and supportive environment to nurture the next generation of performing artists. Our classes and programs are open to ages 4-17 and include both skills-based and performance-focused curriculum.

We also offer an extensive range of wellness programming for children and teens with disabilities, anxiety, and more. We welcome you to stop by for a tour during one of our seasonal open house events to meet the instructors and tour the theater.

NAPLES ART

239-262-6517 • info@naplesart.org • www.NaplesArt.org A strong arts education is part of the foundation for a successful future. Youth who participate in the popular ARTScool summer education program delve into their creative sides. Special studio or art classes for children are offered throughout the year, including classes specifically designed for homeschool students. Collier County high school art students have opportunities to earn scholarships to pursue artistic studies at the collegiate level.

NAPLES PERFORMING ARTS CENTER 239-325-8789 • info@naplesperformingartscenter.com • http://NaplesPerformingArtsCenter.com The Naples Performing Arts Center provides excellence in arts education through a diverse curriculum, while fostering creativity, building selfesteem, developing our students’ love for the arts, and equipping them with life skills. NPAC offers a School of Dance, School of Drama, and the School of Music, where students can develop their skills and talents. NPAC also offers a year-round program for students with special needs. The “I’m a Star” program gives students with intellectual challenges numerous opportunities to be “stars” and shine on the stage.

THE NAPLES SCHOOL OF IRISH DANCE

239-438-6226 or 516-314-7404 • NaplesIrishDance@gmail.com • www.facebook.com/DanceIrishNaples The Naples School of Irish Dance teaches both competitive and non-competitive Irish dance. It is affiliated with the Drake School of Irish Dance, an internationally renowned competitive and performance-based dance school, and also is affiliated with Tir na Nog, our non-competitive program. Our beginners learn the history, culture, and dance of Ireland through storytelling and timing and rhythm using musical instruments along with Irish music.

They will learn the beginner reel and jig steps through different activities. It’s a place to have fun, make friends, build confidence, and take direction.

NEAPOLITANfamily • September 2021

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TRAVEL

By Karen T. Bartlett

M Let’s Go Surfing Now

Everybody’s Learning How

Photo by Karen T. Bartlett

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y first impression is that we’ve walked onto the set of a 1960s surfing movie: an impossibly wide expanse of hard packed golden sand, rolling waves crashing into ribbons of salty white froth. Small clusters of sun-kissed surfers sporting zinc-streaked faces and neon-hued rash guards carrying boards on their heads or tucked under their arms, while others are already floating just beyond the sandbar, waiting for the precise moment to catch the wave. I can almost hear The Beach Boys belting it out: “Let’s go surfing now; Everybody’s learning how; Come on and safari with me! ” Only it’s not the 1960s, it’s not Waikiki, and at least half of the “cast” are pint-sized versions of those sculpted-body movie surfers. It’s August 2021, Daytona Beach, at the Pure Life Surf School’s weeklong summer camp. The average age appears to be 8-12. It’s only the second day of camp, and already a couple of the kids have managed to get vertical on their boards, if only for a few precious seconds. Except for the professional coaches (one for every four students), who are easily identified in black rash guards, they’re all wearing the signature green camp rashies and are grouped according to size, ability, and confidence level. Regardless of size or ability, through my lens the confidence level appears amazingly high.

Pure Life, translated from the Costa Rican phrase pura vida (the pure life) expresses everything from “Hi, what’s up?” to “It’s all good.”

At its core, pura vida is a philosophy of life. School founder and expert surfer LJ Kuzmovich says he created the camp program to give kids not just surfing technique, but also a pure life experience: a positive and healthy lifestyle, camaraderie, and sheer joy.

My favorite baby boomer is about to celebrate a significant birthday (it’s nobody’s business which one, he says) and his idea of sheer joy is checking off Box #1 of his lifelong bucket list: to be a surfer dude. Randy has never actually been on a surfboard, but he’s got the board shorts, the rash guard, and plenty of zinc, and he’s been working out those paddling arms. Anyway, watching those 10-year-olds, he’s thinking “How hard can it be, right?”

I’m sitting it out due to a hand injury, but daughter Sarah and son-in-law Mike have joined us for a private group lesson. Both are veterans of several lessons and survived some very decent waves on a recent Pacific Northwest vacation. Our plan for the weekend: Lessons in the morning, and then rent surfboards for the rest of the day until sunset. Eat. Sleep. Repeat. So immediately after checking into our cushy rooms at The Shores Resort, we stroll a few steps down the beach to

NEAPOLITANfamily • September 2021

the white-tented Pure Life cabana in front of Frank Rendon Park. The campers have finished their picnic lunches and are headed out for round two of their surfing day. Our instructor Tim Burton (not that one! An actual bronzed surfer guy with sun-bleached curls) is waiting with the boards. The first 20 minutes go something like this: “Okay dudes, focus straight ahead and I’ll tell you when. Okay, here comes your wave! Start paddling! This is it! Hands flat on the board.

Chest up! Chin up! Pop up! Shoulder forward. Keep those knees bent!

Ride that wave! Perfect, dudes; great job!”

After some serious tweaking (find the sweet spot … don’t touch your rail … keep your mouth closed) and a few more great successes, he raises his hand in the shaka sign and says, “Okay, I think you’re ready. Dust the sand off your boards and let’s go try it in the water!”

As it turns out, first-time surfing in actual waves is very hard work.

The millennials exhibit impressive form and manage to catch several nice waves, while Boomer is justifiably proud of making it to the pop-up stage. There’s a lot of hilarious falling off and wiping out, and at the end of the two hours, nobody is talking about renting boards for the rest of the day. Tomorrow is time enough for that. Meanwhile, we’re inclined to do what many surf kids’ parents do: head to The Shores’ Tiki Hut Barefoot Beach Bar for a refreshing adult beverage. And later, a tasty alfresco meal by the culinary team at the resort’s restaurant, Azure.

We spend almost all of Day Two of our two-day getaway in the water until the usual summer thunderheads started forming. The surfers are on boards from Daytona Board Store Surf Shop, and I’ve bodysurfed until my eyes won’t focus and I have more salt water than blood running in my veins. The last time I did that was maybe age 12, and this time without a single skinned nose or bathing suit malfunction.

I can’t remember feeling more like a kid, and it’s glorious.

It’s time to press play.

Epilogue As we zip up our last packed bag for the drive home, we lock eyes wordlessly and we know it’s not over. Two days in the ocean waves felt like an appetizer. We check in with Sarah and Mike, who are having exactly the same thought. We book two more nights, and start all over. Pura Vida!

Essential Info

Pure Life Surf School Private and semi-private lessons for all ages (1½ - 2 hours) run yearround at $60 -$80 per person. Half-day and full-day summer camps for ages 7-16 run May to August at $249-$299/week. Each day starts with yoga stretches and lessons in safety, ocean awareness, and surfing etiquette. https://PureLifeSurfschool.com The Shores Resort & Spa Separated from crowd-centric Daytona Beach on the quiet peninsula called Daytona Beach Shores, the oceanfront resort is luxurious with a casual vibe, excellent food, and a friendly staff. Florida and Georgia residents get up to 25% off room rates, plus – and this is important – individual s’mores kits for the fire pit. www.ShoresResort.com Ponce Inlet Lighthouse and Museum Climb the 203 steps for 360-degree views from atop Florida’s tallest lighthouse. Kids: be sure to get your official signed and sealed certificate for completing the climb. Small admission fee. www.PonceInlet.org Foodie alert Some family-fave casual waterfront restaurants: Crabby Joe’s on the Sunglow Fishing Pier, Caribbean Jack’s, Boondock’s. For the discerning palate, Millie’s is the place, and for a breakfast or lunch to please both herbivores and carnivores, I love the ambience-infused Dancing Avocado Kitchen.

NEAPOLITANfamily • September 2021

Fun with friends. New adventures. Making a difference. You’re ready to go and Girl Scouts is ready for you.

Scan to learn more.

You can make a difference. Volunteer with Girl Scouts. We’re ready for you.

Join us today at www.gsgcf.org or call 800-232-4475 neafamily.com

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NEAPOLITANfamily • September 2021

OUT & ABOUT

26 (closed Tuesdays) 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. weekdays, 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. weekends and holidays. A 20,000 square foot light and sound experience featuring two-story projections of the artist’s works. Located at Olympia Theater, 174 E. Flagler St., Miami. For tickets and more information, visit https://vangoghexpo.com/miami.

10:30 a.m.

Toddler/Preschool Story Time. Stories, songs, rhymes, and other fun activities to engage little hands and bodies. Ages 18 months to 5 years.

Located at Vanderbilt Beach Library, 788 Vanderbilt Beach Rd., Naples. Call 239252-7160 or check www.collierlibrary.org.

11 a.m. Preschool Story Time. Stories, songs, finger plays and a craft or activity every week. Ages 3-5 years. Registration is required. Located at Headquarters Library, 2385 Orange Blossom Dr., Naples.

Check www.collierlibrary.org or call 239252-7370.

in September 2021

2 THURSDAY

Photo by Peggy Farren

1 WEDNESDAY 9 a.m. Safari Squad. Members-only event. Includes an animal encounter, reading, art, and play stations. September’s theme is “Be the Animal.” Wednesdays and Saturdays. Located at Naples Zoo, 1590 Goodlette-Frank Rd., Naples. Call 239262-5409 or check www.napleszoo.org.

10 a.m. Toddler Story Time. Stories, songs, and activities for ages 16-35 months.

Registration is not required. Located at Estates Library, 1266 Golden Gate Blvd.

W., Naples. Check www.collierlibrary.org or call 239-252-7109.

10 a.m. Van Gogh: The Immersive Experience Miami. Daily through Sept.

10:30 a.m. Family Story Time. Stories, songs, and a craft for children of all ages and caregivers. Registration not required. Located at Marco Island Library, 210 S. Heathwood Dr., Marco Island.

Check www.collierlibrary.org or call 239252-7064.

4 SATURDAY 11:30 a.m. & 2 p.m. Saturday Movie Matinee: Four Kids and It. Rated PG. All ages. Registration is not required.

Located at Immokalee Library, 417 N. First St., Immokalee. Check www.collierlibrary. org or call 239-252-7073.

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12 p.m. KidzAct Youth Theater Open House. Meet the instructors, tour the theater, participate in theater games, and sign up for fall classes. Ages 4-17.

Located at The Naples Players, 701 Fifth Ave. S., Naples. Call 239-263-7990 or check https://naplesplayers.org.

5 SUNDAY 12:30 p.m. Camp Vitamin C. Ages 5-10 will exercise and learn the benefits of practicing mindfulness to create calm and stillness. Located at Paradise Sports Park, 3940 City Gate Blvd. N., Naples. RSVP to campvitaminckids@gmail.com.

7 TUESDAY 10 a.m. Family Story Time. Stories, songs, and hands-on activities. Registration is not required. Located at Immokalee Library, 417 N. First St., Immokalee. Check www.collierlibrary.org or call 239-2527073.

10:30 a.m. Family Story Time.

Stories, songs, and hands-on activities.

Registration required. Located at South Regional Library, 8065 Lely Cultural Pkwy., Naples. Call 239-252-7542 or check www.collierlibrary.org.

5 p.m. Annie Auditions for Ages 8-18. To register for an audition, visit: https://www.gulfshoreplayhouse.org/ education/star-academy/annie. Questions can be emailed to Steven Calakos at scalakos@gulfshoreplayhouse.org. Located at Gulfshore Playhouse, Norris Center, 755 8th Ave. S., Naples.

9 THURSDAY 4 p.m. Lego Fun. Bricks provided. Ages 4-11. Registration is not required. Located at Estates Library, 1266 Golden Gate Blvd. W., Naples. Call 239-252-7109 or check www.collierlibrary.org.

6:30 p.m. Evening on Fifth. An array of live musical performances up and down the sidewalks of Fifth Avenue South, plus dining, shopping, and more. Located at Fifth Avenue South, Naples. Visit www. fifthavenuesouth.com.

A lifelong joy of learning, An education for life.

10 FRIDAY 9 a.m. Collier County Appreciation Days. Friday and Saturday. Free timed admission tickets for Collier County residents. Tickets must be reserved, starting Sept. 6. Located at Naples Zoo, 1590 Goodlette-Frank Rd., Naples. Call 239315-7626 or check www.napleszoo.org.

10 a.m. Le Leche League Monthly Meeting. All breastfeeding mothers and mothers-to-be interested in breastfeeding are welcome. Also, our leaders are available by phone for breastfeeding help.

Located at Center Point Community Church, 6590 Golden Gate Pkwy., Naples. Visit www.lllsunshinestate.org.

11 SATURDAY

8 a.m. Bark on the Ark Dog Cruise.

Pure Florida’s dog-friendly cruise takes guests and their pups for a sightseeing eco cruise along Naples Bay to Keewaydin Island, where pets and their parents will enjoy time to play. Located at Pure Florida, Tin City Docks, Naples. Call 239-2634949 or visit www.purefl.com.

Currently Enrolling – Register Today!!

Providing a loving environment for children while offering parents and caregivers a needed break.

INFANT TODDLER CHILDREN’S HOUSE VPK ELEMENTARY

Call to schedule a private tour

239-597-2255

More information can be found on our website

www.naplesmontessori.org 2655 Northbrooke Drive Naples, Florida 34119 License #C20CO0132

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

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

Ages 2-4 years by Aug. 1

6926 Trail Blvd., Naples, FL

239.597.3464

For more information, email momsmorningout@covenantnaples.com.

NEAPOLITANfamily • September 2021

9 a.m. COMMUNITY Scoops for Library Cards. & YOUR NEWS Receive a free ice cream cup when you sign up for a library card or check out an item with your current card, while supplies last. All ages.

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

11 a.m. LGBTQ+ Youth Group. This is a safe space for those in grades 6-12 on the second Saturday of every month. Located at Naples Pride Center, 2248 Airport Pulling Rd. S., Naples. Call 239-3049407 or check www.naplespride.org.

3 p.m. Pups ‘n’ Books. Stop by to read to a dog or just pet one. All ages. Registration is not required. Located at Vanderbilt Beach Library, 788 Vanderbilt Beach Rd., Naples. Check www.collierlibrary.org or call 239-252-7160.

8 p.m. Family Friendly Comedy. Get ready to laugh until it hurts with Stage 2 Improv. Located at The Naples Players, 701 Fifth Ave. S., Naples. Call 239-2637990 or check https://naplesplayers.org.

EVENTS

6:30 p.m. Cub Scout Information Night. Learn more about Cub Scouts for boys and girls in grades K-5. Located at Collier County Public Schools elementary cafeterias. For more information, call 239990-6806 or email JamesG@Scouting.org.

New Minature Horse Program at Naples Therapeutic Riding Center

A

$100,000 grant from the Virginia Toulmin Foundation 7 p.m.

PFLAGB. Naples.

Every third is funding a new miniature therapy program at Naples Thursday.horse A safe, loving, nonjudgmental, Therapeutic Riding Center (NTRC), environment a nonprofit organization and supportive for the parCub Scout Information Night providing therapeutic horseback riding andfriends other equine-facilitated ents, family, and of LGBTQ+ peoSIGN UP FOR FAMILY SCOUTING! services to children andple. adults withatphysical, social,Center, and mental Located Naples Pride 2248 Cub Scouts (Grades K - 5th) for Boys & Girls health Cub needs.

Airport Pulling Rd. S., Naples.

Call 239Scout Field Day! COLLIER SCHOOLS INFO NIGHT! Saturday, Oct. 2nd Two miniature horses, Toulmin and Itty Bitty, were donated 10:00AM - 1:00PM 304-9407 or check www.naplespride.org.

10:30 a.m.

Story SAFE Time.

StoTHURSDAY, SEPTFamily 16th - 6:30pm FAMILY EVENT Miniature Public Elem.

Caféto Archery, skills, games, ries,Your songs, andSchool’s a craft forNTRC. children of all horses, known as “minis”, are similar to their free food, sign up! full-sized equine partners in terms of personality, intelligence, and NAPLES • GOLDEN GATE • THE ESTATES ages and caregivers. Registration isParknot Florida Sports disposition.

The grant was used to improve the facilities to ensure Collier Direct Contact: required.

Located at Golden Gate Library, (239) 990-6806 or JamesG@Scouting.org JOIN SCOUTS TODAY AT the safety of the minis as well asKids’ fund Night the newOut. position of equine 2432 Lucerne Rd., Naples.

Check www.

6 p.m.

Games, activWWW.BEASCOUT.ORG! resource manager to implement and facilitate the program. collierlibrary.org or call 239-252-4549. ities, dinner, movie. Ages 5-11. Located at In addition to having the Fiala minisEagle on site at the riding center, Donna Lakes Community Park, NTRC’s new mini traveling program will bring the 11565 Tamiami Tr. E., Naples.therapeutic Call 239benefits of horses to worksites and organizations through Southwest 252-3527 or visit www.collierparks.com.

Florida, including hospitals, schools, hospices, nursing homes, and 8 a.m. Fall Fun Day. A safe, fun place for rehabilitation centers. your kids to spend the day off from school.

VisitK-5. www.naplestherapeuticridingcenter.org.

Crafts, games, snack for grades $20.

Located at Veterans Community Park., 1895 9 a.m. Nature Explorers. A drop-off Left: Camryn Ramsey environmental with miniature horse Toulmin.

Veterans Park Dr., Naples.

Call 239-252education program. Ages 4682 or visit www.collierparks.com.

5-11. $10. Located at Calusa Nature

13 MONDAY

8520 Rattlesnake Hammock Rd

17 FRIDAY

16 THURSDAY

18 SATURDAY

Happy kids. Sparkly smiles.

Dr. Sandor.

Naples’ Favorite Pediatric Dentist

Naples Pediatric Dentistry

239.592.0800

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

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

10 neafamily.com • September 2021 NEAPOLITANfamily

NEAPOLITANfamilyneafamily.com • January 2021 27

NACS Naples Adventist Christian School

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

Th e

G ard e n School of Naples

Mon tessor i E a r l y E duc a t ion

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

Contact us to schedule a visit, or explore online.

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

Accepting applications for enrollment now!

www.gardenschoolnaples.com

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

Fun, Safe & Convenient Youth Sport Leagues

Flag Football • Soccer • Basketball • Baseball • Volleyball

6 Seasons Each Year • Register NOW at www.i9sports.com Locations in Naples, Cape Coral, and Fort Myers • No Tryouts!

New Leagues in East Naples Community Park Ages 3-15 www.i9sports.com 239-308-9849

depending on sport & location

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NEAPOLITANfamily • September 2021

Center & Planetarium, 3450 Ortiz Ave., Fort Myers. Check www.calusanature.org or call 239-275-3435.

Immokalee Library, 417 N. First St., Immokalee. Check www.collierlibrary.org or call 239-252-7073.

10 a.m. Free Family Art Lab. Come ready to imagine and create. Free. Located at Alliance for the Arts, 10091 McGregor Blvd., Fort Myers. Call 239-939-2787 or check www.artinlee.org.

21 TUESDAY

11 a.m. Museum Day Live. A full day of lively educational activities for both adults and children, including a scavenger hunt with prizes, train station tours, and more. Located at Naples Depot Museum, 1051 Fifth Ave. S., Naples. Call 239-2528419 or check www.colliermuseums.com.

1:30 p.m. Pups ‘n’ Books. Stop by to read to a dog or just pet one. All ages. Registration is not required. Located at Headquarters Library, 2385 Orange Blossom Dr., Naples. Check www.collierlibrary.org or call 239-252-7370.

2 p.m. Teen Book Bingo. Bring a friend and win some prizes. Ages 1117. No registration required. Located at

6 p.m. Paw Patrol Live! The Great Pirate Adventure. It’s Pirate Day in Adventure Bay, and Mayor Goodway is getting ready for a big celebration. Located Barbara B. Mann Performing Arts Center, 13350 FSW Pkwy., Fort Myers.

Visit www.bbmannpah.com or call 239481-4849.

7:30 p.m. Movies on the Lawn: The Upside. Gates open at 6:30 p.m. Food available for purchase. Located at Mercato Shops, Naples. Call 239-254-1080 or visit www.mercatoshops.com.

25 SATURDAY 9 a.m. Super Saturday Estuary Celebration. Mini-guided boat rides, a film festival, kids’ activities and crafts, interactive trivia, nature store discounts, and more. Located at Rookery Bay

Super Saturday Estuary Celebration

Environmental Learning Center, 300 Tower Rd., Naples. Call 239-530-5972, email info@rookerybay.org, or check www.rookerybay.org.

26 SUNDAY 11 a.m. Fort Myers Cosplay Con 2021. Tabletop games, demos and workshops, live action role playing sessions, cosplay mini shoots, panels, contests, and more.

Located at Alliance for the Arts, 10091 McGregor Blvd., Fort Myers. Call 239-9392787 or check www.artinlee.org.

WWW.TEMPLESHALOMPRESCHOOLNAPLES.ORG

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

Baby & Me

Baby & Me

Three Locations to Serve You. BONITA SPRINGS

9510 Bonita Beach Rd. Ste. 101

239.333.2990

CAPE CORAL

1508 S.E. 12th Terrace

239.322.5222

PORT CHARLOTTE

3872 Tamiami Trail, Unit D&E

941.391.8090

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

Sensory Activities - Baby Sign Language Music - Storytime - Yoga - Tummy Time - Bonding

Most Insurances Accepted NEAPOLITANfamily • September 2021

For more information or to schedule a tour: 239-455-3227 preschool@naplestemple.org

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

neafamily.com

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FLUTE LESSONS Tutoring for Struggling Readers

Susan Atchison

reading, language arts, organizational skills

I n P e r s o n K-5 V e t e ra n T e a c h e r W i l s o n R e a di n g C e r t i f i e d O r t on -G i l l i n g h am T r a i n e d F l e x i b l e H o u r s /L o c a t i o n (330) 620-6892 tutoringstrugglingreaders.com

For beginners & advanced beginners Private & group lessons

(239) 777-4697 rachel.v.newman@outlook.com

Tracey Ansteth Albert

TUTORING Former CCPS Teacher for 10 Years Golden Apple Award Recipient

239-572-8643 TA1019@aol.com

Reading, Language Arts, Social Studies, Math, Organizational Skills, and Homework Assistance

• Grades K-3 • Flexible hours • Clean, calm, positive environment

NOW OPEN

NICHOLS COMMUNITY HEALTH CENTER

Family • Dental • Women Children • Senior • Pharmacy Integrated Behavioral Health

Supporting Your Healthcare Journey LOCATED AT 12655 COLLIER BLVD., NAPLES

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NEAPOLITANfamily • September 2021

NEW!

HOW NAPLES ZOO DOES

FACETIME

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

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

NAPLESZOO.ORG NEAPOLITANfamily • September 2021

neafamily.com

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“Educating the mind without educating the heart is no education at all.” –Aristotle

Visit Our Website to Learn More and Enroll!

TUITION-FREE K-12 School Top 2% of All Florida Public Schools New High School Campus College Prep Academic Program Rigorous, Classical Curriculum Variety of AP Courses and Sports Strong Emphasis on History and Civics “Knowledge is in every country the surest basis of public happiness.”

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– George Washington

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Website: MasonAcademy.com Address: 3073 Horseshoe Dr. S., Naples Email: Info@Masonacademy.com NEAPOLITANfamily • September 2021 Phone Number: (239) 227-2838