December 2014 Neapolitan Family

NEAPOLITANfamily • December 2014 neafamily.com 1

COMPLIMENTARY

December 2014neafamily.com

Happy

Holidays!

LOOKING FOR CHRISTMAS LIGHTS? NEIGHBORHOODS AND DISPLAYS YOU SHOULDN’T MISSGIVING BACK LOCAL GROUPS THAT NEED YOUR DONATIONS

TEACHING YOUR KIDS TO GIVE WITH JOY

Plus DOZENS OF HOLIDAY EVENTS

Meet Kamilla Our Cover Kids Grand Prize Winner!

December 2014.indd 1 11/18/14 4:47 PM

2 neafamily.com NEAPOLITANfamily • December 2014

1575 Pine Ridge Road, Suite 4, Naples, Florida 34109 • [email protected]

239-631-2348 • www.wiseMindsLearning.coM

$100 offFirst Month’s Tuition

Expires 12/31/14

LEARNING CAN BE FUNGive your kids a head start on school this year with

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December 2014.indd 2 11/17/14 6:05 PM


The Greater Naples YMCA

OPEN HOUSEWednesday, January 14th

Come celebrate our brand newSchulze Family Foundation

Wellness Center!

Ribbon Cuttings at 12:30 & 5:30 p.m. Tours & Activities Starting at Noon

Bring this ad to the Open Houseand get a

FREEGIFT!while supplies last

5450 YMCA ROAD | 239.597.3148 | www.GreaterNaplesYMCA.org

December 2014.indd 3 11/17/14 6:05 PM


Visit neafamily.com to enter!Value of prizes is over $4,000!Enter once per day for the prizes you want to win.Random drawing for prizes to be held on December 26.

Employees of prize sponsor not eligible to win that prize. No substitutions by winner but prize sponsor may substitute an equal value prize at their discretion.

Visit neafamily.com to enter!Value of prizes is almost $4,000!Enter once per day for just the prizes you want to win.Random drawings for prizes to be held on December 26.

Employees of prize sponsor not eligible to win that prize. No substitutions by winner but prize sponsor may substitute an equal value prize at their discretion.the parenting magazine devoted to collier county

Win!One of 30 Amazing Prizes

Visit neafamily.com to enter!Value of prizes is over $5,000!Enter once per day for just the prizes you want to win.Random drawings for prizes to be held on December 31.

Employees of prize sponsor not eligible to win that prize. No substitutions by winner but prize sponsor may substitute an equal value prize at their discretion. Some prizes may have restrictions. Complete rules at neafamily.com.the parenting magazine devoted to collier county

30 Days of

ChristmasGift Giveaway

December 2014.indd 4 11/17/14 6:07 PM


Two Passes to the Environmental

Learning Center and Kayak Tour for 2

from ROOKERY BAY(value $120)

$100 Gift Certificate from

TRUE FASHIONISTAS

(value $100)

$100 Gift Certificatefrom TWINKLE

TWINKLE LITTLE STORE

(value $100)

Birthday Party for 10 People

from CORAL CAY ADVENTURE GOLF

(value $100)

Gift Certificate for “4 Weeks to Proficiency Video Boot Camp”

from UNDERSTAND PHOTOGRAPHY

(value $497)

$100 Gift Certificatefrom

NORMAN LOVE CONFECTIONS

Goddess Cleaning Package

from MAID PRO(value $299)

Skin Consult and Microdermabrasion

from KENT V. HASEN MD

(value $200)

Two Tickets to a production from

BROADWAY PALM DINNER THEATRE

(value $118)

Gift Certificate for 50-Minute Massage &

50-Minute Facialfrom MASSAGE ENVY

(value $170)

FACIAL PLASTIC SURGERY ✦ DERMATOLOGY

Gift Certificate for Microdermabrasion,

Facial or Chemical Peelfrom THE

WOODRUFF INSTITUTE(value $125)

What Can I Win?


PLANET TAILS PET STORE

Gift Certificate for Children’s Massage

from EISA LINDNERCertified Pediatric Massage Therapist

(value $130)

$50 Rusty Bucket gift card, $50 GiGi’s

Children’s Boutique gift card & $50

Silverspot gift cardFrom MERCATO

Evaluation Plus One Month of Tutoring

WISE MINDS LEARNING CENTER

(value $380)

Gift Certificate for Yoga ClassesBala Vinyasa Yoga

(value $160)

One Week of Camp or a Basic

Birthday Party Package IMPACT

MARTIAL ARTS(value $150)

Family Membership & Basket of Gift Items

from CONSERVANCY OF SW FLORIDA

(value ??)

$100 Gift Certificate

from THE SHIPPING

STATION

LIFETIME MEMBERSHIP & ONE MONTH OF CLASSES

MY GYM (value $155)


STACY’S GOLDEN HANGER

Plus: TWO SPECIAL PRIZES! From

Two Sets of Four Box Seats for Guys & Dolls at Artis-Naples on Dec. 26th

(value $300 for each set of 4 tickets)

Drawing for these two prizes will be Dec. 20

woof. meow.


BARK ESTATES DOGGIE DAYCARE

Sonicare Gift Setfrom

BRACE PLACE(value $250)

$100 Gift Card Plus Gift Basket

from GREAT CLIPS HAIR SALONS

$100 Gift Certificatefor Services, Party or Merchandise from LOLLIPOPS SPA


DANCE ARTS BY MARIA


ROBERT OF PHILADELPHIA

HAIR SALON

$100 in Gift Certificates

from POLLO TROPICAL

December 2014.indd 5 11/18/14 3:53 PM


DECEMBER 2014 TABLE OF CONTENTS

Departments 06 ON THE COVER

08 ONLINE THIS MONTH AT NEAFAMILY.COM

09 FROM THE PUBLISHER

10 REEL LIFE WITH JANE Family Movie Reviews

16 CITY CONNECTION City of Naples Parks Department News and Events

19 COMMUNITY EVENTS

24 CENTERFOLD CALENDAR

26 DECEMBER EVENTS Community events for your family.

on the cover…

Kamilla Magnolia Horton was born on September 6, 2013 in Fort Myers. Her parents are Rebekah Horton, a stay-at-home mom and Chris Horton, Operations Manager at Stephens Remodels. Ka-milla is the Grand Prize winner in our 2014-15 Cover Kids contest.

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

inspiring the love of learning since 1984

I love mythe things he sees arenot just remembered,they form apart of hissoul.

Maria Montessori

Empowering and inspiring children to reach their potential with:- Programs for 6 months to 6 years of age with full or parttime days- Florida VPK programs & Private chef’s delicious full meal program- Residential campus setting with 2-large play yards and much more

Call today for a campus tour: 239-597-7190www.cedarmontessori.org e-mail: [email protected]

CEDR 1003 NeaFamily 1-4 pg Horiz.4_Layout 1 2/18/13 9:45 AM Page 1

12 Happy, Healthy Family by Lara Krupicka Soul Support: Four Ways to Bolster Your Spirit

14 Pediatric Massage: Essential Touch For Children by Tina Allen Massage for children is becoming mainstream with treatment options for children with chronic disease, special needs and sleep issues becoming more common. Plus, tips on massaging your child at home.

39 Enjoy the Present: Help Kids Give with Joy by Malia Jacobson An age-by-age guide to raising kids who give from the heart.

40 Giving Back In Our Community: A Brighter Season For Everyone by Stacy Nicolau Adopt a family, give a bike or fulfill a child’s holiday wish this season.

42 A Clutter-Free Holiday Gift Guide by Beth N. Davis This year, give experiences and gifts that will be treasured instead of adding to the pile of “stuff” most families are trying to reduce.

44 Lighting up Your Holiday Events and neighborhoods in SW Florida where the lighting displays are the star of the show.

December 2014.indd 6 11/18/14 11:18 AM


Mental health is a community issue.Fortunately, there’s a community solution.

His Mind is Our Concern.

Despite being a good student, Ron developed an intense fear of school and refused to go. Depressed and directionless, he abused alcohol and bounced between jobs, homes and towns. By the time he was 23, he had experienced the desperation of homelessness more than once, and had been in several Crisis Units. He was finally diagnosed with bipolar disorder, but without a job or housing, he had no plans. Then he made his way to DLC. DLC referred him to a shelter and into the Project for Assistance in Transition from Homelessness Program. They helped Ron enroll at FGCU for a degree in software engineering and secured financial aid and campus housing. In just eight months, Ron is stable, sober and armed with the skills he needs to manage his illness. He now has a support system and plans for a bright future.

DavidLawrenceCenter.org Naples 239-455-8500 immokalee 239-657-4434

fo r menta l We l l nes s

F o R m e N T a l W e l l N e s s

f o r Me n t a l We l l n e s s

Ron is among one in four in Collier County who suffer from a mental illness. One in ten of us will experience some form of substance abuse. When a family member, friend or coworker battles a mental health or substance abuse problem, we suffer with them. Thankfully, David Lawrence Center is here for our community. A not-for-profit organization founded and still governed by community leaders, the David Lawrence Center is the behavioral health component of our community’s healthcare network. A true local resource, it relies on donations, fees and grants to invest in the health, safety and wellbeing of our community. When you or someone you love needs help, call on the highly compassionate, committed and competent professionals of the David Lawrence Center to inspire you to move beyond the crisis towards life-changing wellness.

December 2014.indd 7 11/17/14 6:07 PM


DECEMBERonlineat

NEAFAMILY.COM

Browse Our E-MagazineRead complete issues of Neapolitan Fam-ily on your desktop computer or mobile device. To access: Neafamily.com → Digital → Click on issue you’d like to read.

Take Us Wherever You GoNeapolitan 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-NewsletterNeapolitan Family sends out an e-newsletter 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.

Web Only ContestsWe offer great contests for our web readers. To find out about our current contest: Neafamily.com → Contests.

Web Only ContentWe 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.

Updated CalendarWe 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.

This month’s web-only articles:

• Holiday Television Set your DVR to catch all of your favorite holiday shows with our handy holiday viewing guide.

• Holiday Crafting Gifts, decorating and craft ideas for the holidays. Plus, our favorite holiday recipes.

• Last Minute Events Holiday events that didn’t make it into our print calendar will be added to our online calendar–check it often because it’s updated daily.

St. Elizabeth Seton Catholic SchoolMaking a World of Difference … One Child at a TimePreK–3 thru 8th Grade

Introduce your child to the time-honored traditions of a Catholic education

• Florida certified teachers• Full classroom curriculum including Art,

Spanish, Health, Language, Music & PE• Low student-teacher ratio• Secure facilities• Religious values, traditions, weekly

Liturgies• State of the art technology• Extended care included in Pre-K 3 tuition

OPEN HOUSE JANUARY 25

239-455-2262 2730 53rd Terrace SW, Naples, FL • saintelizabethseton.com

6 neafamily.com NEAPOLITANfamily • August 2014

AUGUSTonlineat

NEAFAMILY.COM

Browse Our E-MagazineRead complete issues of Neapolitan Fam-ily on your desktop computer or mobile device. To access: Neafamily.com → Digital → Click on issue you’d like to read.

Take Us Wherever You GoNeapolitan 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-NewsletterNeapolitan Family sends out an e-newsletter 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.

Web Only ContestsWe offer great contests for our web readers. To find out about our current contest: Neafamily.com → Contests.

Web Only ContentWe 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.

Updated CalendarWe 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.

This month’s web-only articles:

• FirstDayofSchool Cute photo ideas, celebrations to mark the new school year and afterschoolactivities.

• CoverKidsContest Findtherulesforourcoverkidscontest plus enter your child!

• AugustFun Onetanktrips,funfall destinationsandfall vacationplanning.

• EducationalResources Booksuggestions,craftideasandmore.

LITTLE PEOPLE’S SCHOOL • For 2-5 year olds868 94th Ave. N, Naples (239) 597-5064

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

(239) 537-6209musicstudionaples.com255 Airport Road South, Naples 34014

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)

December 2014.indd 8 11/18/14 11:19 AM


P.O. Box 110656Naples, FL 34108

(239) 514-0338 Phone(239) 514-0339 [email protected]

Publisher Andrea Breznay

[email protected]

Assistant Publisher Stacy Nicolau

[email protected]

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 opin-ion 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.

the parenting magazine devoted to collier county

THIS MONTH:Happy Holidays!

It’s ok to wish me “Happy Holidays,” really. I won’t take offense. I’m just

happy that you’re smiling at me and wishing me well whether my celebra-

tion is Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, New Year’s or some combination.

I admit to not understanding why those two little words get people upset–

people are trying to be NICE. And, in my opinion, nice is something we

could all use a little more of!

This Christmas I’ll be back home in California spending time with the

people I love most and enjoying every moment. My holiday week will

include lots of great meals, golf, hiking in the hills of northern California, a

wine country tour and a 49ers game. That’s pretty much perfection if you

ask me.

Our 30 Days of Christmas contest kicks off on December 1. To enter, just

go to neafamily.com, click on Contests and follow the links. You can find

descriptions of all the great prizes on pages 4-5 in this issue. This year

we’re giving away almost $6,000 worth of awesome prizes. You enter to

win just the prizes you would like to win and may enter once per day, per

desired prize. We’ll announce the winners on December 31. Good luck!

This issue is filled with fun events that your family is sure to enjoy. From a

packed calendar to City of Naples events to the best local lighting dis-

plays, we’ve worked hard to fill our pages with enough fun to keep you as

busy as you’d like to be during the entire month.

Have a wonderful December filled with family, friends, love and peace!

Andrea Breznay

Publisher

from the publisher…

December 2014.indd 9 11/18/14 3:53 PM


REEL LIFE WITH JANE By Jane Louise Boursaw

Family Movie & DVD Reviews New on the big screen for kids and teens in December is a battle for Middle-earth, a cute little orphan, Meryl Streep as a wicked

witch, and a beloved bear. Here’s a sneak peek at what’s new in theaters and on DVD and Blu-ray this month. Note that release dates are subject to change.

ANNIE

Rated PG for some mild language and rude humor • In Theaters 12/19

Ok for Kids 8+ Reel Preview: 4 of 5 Reels

The delightful Broadway classic comes to the big screen with Oscar nominee Quvenzhané Wallis (“Beasts of the Southern Wild”) star-ring as Annie, a happy foster kid who’s tough enough to make it on the streets of New York in 2014. It’s been a “hard knock” life, thanks to her mean foster mom Miss Hannigan (Cameron Diaz), but everything changes when hard-nosed tycoon and New York mayoral candidate Will Stacks (Jamie Foxx) rescues her from the path of a speeding vehicle. Stacks thinks he’s her guard-ian angel, but Annie’s self-assured nature and bright, sun-will-come-out-tomorrow outlook just might mean it’s the other way around. Emma Thompson, Aline Brosh McKenna and director Will Gluck wrote the screenplay for this super cute adaptation.

THE HOBBIT: THE BATTLE OF THE FIVE ARMIES

Not Yet Rated; Likely PG-13 In Theaters 12/17 (2D/3D/IMAX 3D)

Ok for Kids 12+ Reel Preview: 4.5 of 5 Reels

Peter Jackson’s third movie in “The Hobbit” trilogy, adapted from the books by J.R.R. Tolkien, concludes the adventures of Bilbo Baggins (Martin Freeman), Thorin Oaken-shield (Richard Armitage) and the Company of Dwarves. Having reclaimed their homeland from the Dragon Smaug (voiced by Benedict Cumberbatch), the group has unwittingly unleashed a deadly force into the world, and Smaug rains his fiery wrath down upon the defenseless people of Lake-town. Obsessed with his reclaimed treasure, Thorin sacrifices friendship and honor to hoard it as Bilbo tries to reason with him. Meanwhile, evil Sauron has sent forth legions of Orcs in a stealth attack upon the Lonely Mountain, and the future of Middle-earth hangs in the balance.

NIGHT AT THE MUSEUM: SECRET OF THE TOMB

Not Yet Rated; Likely PG In Theaters 12/19 • Ok for Kids 7+

Reel Preview: 3.5 of 5 ReelsYou know how all the exhibits come to life at the museum every night? Well, that magic might come to an end unless security guard/CEO Larry Daley (Ben Stiller) can figure out why the Tablet of Ahkmenrah is dying out. To do so, he spans the globe, uniting favorite and new characters while embarking on an epic quest to save the magic before it’s gone forever. Directed by Shawn Levy, the all-star cast includes Robin Williams (one of his final films), Mickey Rooney (his final film), Rebel Wilson, Ben Kingsley, Dan Stevens, Owen Wilson, Steve Coogan, Skyler Gisondo and Ricky Gervais.

BIG EYES

Rated PG-13 for thematic elements and brief strong language

In Theaters 12/25 • Ok for Kids 13+ Reel Preview: 5 of 5 Reels

Directed and produced by Tim Burton, “Big Eyes” is based on the true story of Walter Keane (Christoph Waltz), one of the most successful painters of the 1950s and 1960s. The artist catapulted to international fame by commercial-izing his enigmatic paintings of waifs with big eyes. Except ... they were actually painted by his wife, Margaret (Amy Adams). “Big Eyes” tells the story of Margaret’s awakening as an artist, the phenomenal success of her paintings, and her tumultuous relationship with her husband. Also stars Danny Huston, Krysten Ritter, Jason Schwartzman and Terence Stamp. At 87, Keane is still painting today; check out her website.

INTO THE WOODS

Rated PG for thematic elements, fantasy action and peril, and

some suggestive material In Theaters 12/25 • Ok for Kids 9+

Reel Preview: 5 of 5 ReelsThis big screen adaptation of the Tony Award-winning Broadway musical is a modern twist on the beloved Brothers Grimm fairy tales “Cinder-ella,” “Little Red Riding Hood,” “Jack and the Beanstalk” and “Rapunzel.” The tales are tied together by an original story involving a baker and his wife, their wish to begin a family, and their interaction with the witch who has put a curse on them. Meryl Streep (The Witch), Anna Kendrick (Cinderella), Chris Pine (The Prince), Johnny Depp (The Wolf) and Emily Blunt (The Baker’s Wife) head up the cast of this gorgeous film directed by Rob Marshall.

December 2014.indd 10 11/18/14 11:23 AM


PADDINGTON

Not Yet Rated; Likely G or PG In Theaters 12/25 • Ok for Kids 6+

Reel Preview: 4 of 5 ReelsFrom the beloved novels by Michael Bond and producer David Heyman (“Harry Potter”), this cute family movie follows the comic misadven-tures of a young Peruvian bear (voiced by Colin Firth) who travels to the city in search of a home. Lost and alone, he starts to realize that perhaps city life isn’t for him, until he meets the kindly Brown family who offer him a temporary haven. Things are going fine until this rarest of bears catches the eye of a museum taxidermist. Di-rected by Paul King, the cast also includes Hugh Bonneville, Nicole Kidman, Sally Hawkins, Jim Broadbent, Peter Capaldi and Julie Walters.

NEW ON DVD/BLU-RAY

JULIUS JR.: SNOW MONKEY ADVENTURES

Not Rated • On DVD 12/02 Ok for Kids 3+

Reel Review: 5 of 5 ReelsFor the first time on DVD & Digital comes

six episodes of this charming preschool series filled with music, creativity and out of the box thinking for kids. The set also contains a Fisher-Price Julius Jr. figurine (while supplies last). Join the funky monkey and his pals as they take preschoolers on exciting adventures into a

magical cardboard box playhouse and through the wondrous Hall of Doors to discover the importance of cooperation and creativity.

THOMAS & FRIENDS: SIGNALS CROSSED


Reel Review: 5 of 5 ReelsThis DVD from the popu-lar tot series includes five episodes from season 18: In “Marion and the Pipe,” Thomas digs Marion out of a deep hole. “No Steam Without Coal” finds Timo-thy helping Bill and Ben with coal trouble. In “Signals Crossed,” Toby gets confused at Knapford Junction. “Dun-can and the Grumpy Passen-ger” finds Duncan blowing off steam while dealing with a grumpy passenger. And in “Thomas and the Emergency Cable,” Thomas, Annie and Clarabel put on the brakes when a passenger causes confusion and delay.

THE LEGEND OF KORRA: BOOK THREE - CHANGE

Not Rated• On DVD 12/02 Ok for Kids 8+

Reel Review: 5 of 5 ReelsBook Three of the mega-popular “Legend of Korra” begins with the world entering a new age. Korra discovers that new Airbenders are popping up all over the Earth Kingdom, and she makes it her mission to find them and rebuild the Air Nation. But a group of dangerous criminals who recently broke out of prison have a dangerous mission of their own. The series was voted as IGN’s Best TV Animated Series in 2012 and was the only animated series on the annual list of iTunes Best TV Shows of 2013. Both kids and grownups love it.

THE HERO OF COLOR CITY

Rated G • On DVD/Blu-ray 12/02 Ok for Kids 4+

Reel Review: 4 of 5 ReelsThis animated tale for the pre-school/kinder-garten set follows the adventures of a group of crayons that come alive in a little boy’s room when he drifts off to sleep. Yellow (voiced by

Christina Ricci), a timid and fearful crayon, inadvertently awakens two unfinished draw-ings that threaten to take over Color City. As she embarks on an adventure to discover inner strength and courage, she teams with other crayons and meets fantastical creatures, including Ricky the dragon (Owen Wilson). Filled with valuable life lessons, this sweet movie will entertain and inspire little ones. Directed by Frank Gladstone, the cast also includes Rosie Perez, Wayne Brady, Craig Ferguson and Jessica Capshaw.

CHUGGINGTON: SNOW RESCUE


Reel Review: 5 of 5 ReelsIt’s winter time in Chuggington, and the Chug-gers are preparing for the magical Winter Parade, outfitting themselves in colorful lights for a special nighttime processional through town. But when freezing fog traps Koko and a snowy avalanche derails Fletch, Wilson and the Chug Patrol embark on a wild winterrescue. Kids will discover important lessons about safety, responsibility, and teamwork in this and four other episodes.

JANE’S REEL RATING SYSTEMOne Reel – Even the Force can’t save it.Two Reels – Coulda been a contenderThree Reels – Something to talk about.Four Reels – You want the truth? Great flick!Five Reels – Wow! The stuff dreams are made of.

GIRLS • BOYS • TEENS • ADULTS239.431.8440

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December 2014.indd 11 11/18/14 11:24 AM


HAPPY, HEALTHY FAMILY By Lara Krupicka

The “Happy, Healthy Family” column is spondored each month by Monarch Therapy. For more information on Monarch Therapy, call (239) 325-9210 or check www.MonarchTherapy.com

You’ve made your resolutions and hammered out a few goals for the New Year. But have you planned

where you’ll get the energy for them? If not, you may lose steam before Valentine’s Day. When you take time to shore up your spirit - to refuel - you can do more and enjoy life better in the process.

Not sure what your spirit needs? Here are four common practices you can try:

Engage With NatureHouse to car to building and back again. Our exposure to the outdoors, particularly this time of year can be limited. And when we deprive ourselves too long, we begin to see the effects. Taking the time to pause and soak in natural surroundings can revive our spirit in many ways.

Lori Whalen, a nature center educa-tor, appreciates the break from routine the outdoors provides. She advocates getting outside to expand your awareness and see things differently.

Christina Hyun, mother of two agrees. She takes an extended time to explore the beach alone several times each year for this reason. “It reconnects me. It gives me perspec-tive. Part of the reason I like to go to the water is that I feel really small next to the ocean.”

Many people find actively seeking out time in a park, by a pond or hiking a forest trail to bring them new energy. But be care-ful not to turn it into another item on your checklist. Whalen warns, “It’s important that people come to nature without having a scheduled activity where someone is leading them and teaching them something.”

Take Time to Be AloneHomeschooling mom, Carrie Klayum, knows well her need for time alone. But her family life doesn’t give her many opportunities for this. So she works to make it happen. “If I get up early enough where I’m the only one up, I can be alone,” she says. “Sometimes when I feel like I’ve starved my spirit and I’ve cheated myself of caring for myself, I will schedule a pedicure. Or I’ll go out and run errands alone.”

Getting “alone time” can be tricky. But for those whose spirits hunger for space like that, it’s well worth it. As Klayum explains, “It energizes me and refreshes me. When I get a good chunk of alone time, then I’m ready to face the family again. I miss them.”

Alone time might come after the kids are in bed at night or early in the morning before

Soul SupportFour Ways to Bolster Your Spirit

December 2014.indd 12 11/18/14 11:25 AM


Our Educated and Dedicated Staff Encourages

Creative, Expressive, Hands on Learning

Serving children Infant - age 5VPK Certified

Full-day, Half-day and partial week schedules available

727 108th Ave., Naples • 597-5748 License #C20C07416

[email protected] • www.smallworldnaples.com

Where your child’s needs are our only priority.

Your child will receive quality interaction with our low

student-teacher ratios and will enjoy our spacious, shaded,

fun-filled play area.

they’re up. Swapping babysitting with another mom can provide a free afternoon of solitude. If you’re one who requires personal space, look for creative ways to get time to yourself.

Let Music Move YouWhen you’re feeling drained sometimes all it takes is a few tunes to refill your spirit. Consider the times when your favorite song has come on the radio and how it made you feel. Music therapist, Becky Wellman, affirms this. “The nicest thing about music is it can take you anyplace you want to be. Putting on a favorite song and dancing around the

house can bring back everything you need to feel rejuvenated and ready to do what you need to do.”

Planning out a time to listen to music as a practice to feed your spirit can have an even greater impact. With the right choices, you can shift your mood and energy through music. Wellman ex-plains i t this way: “There’s a principle in music called the Iso Principle where we have to move the music from where we are at the mo-

ment to where we want to be. So if you’re feeling frantic, start from music that’s a little more energized and slowly move it into the mood you wish to have.”

Wellman suggests using this principle over the course of five to ten songs, or for fifteen minutes to a half hour of listening. If you find yourself regularly getting into the same funk, you can create a music playlist to feed your spirit and regain those good emotions. When you’re short on time even sitting down to listen to one great song can make a difference. “Go back to being in the moment and let a song carry you wherever it’s going to carry you,” offers Wellman. “It not only recharges you, it reminds you of what’s most important in life.”

Do What You EnjoyIt may sound obvious, but what our soul needs on occasion is simply time for fun. Whether it be participating in a sport, baking a favorite dish or crafting, a hobby can restore what the demands of life pull from us. Take time to do an activity for nothing other than the enjoyment of it. Read a book. Go for a jog. Pick up a hobby you let fall by the wayside. Can’t think of anything? Grab a friend and try something new, like that pottery workshop you’ve been eyeing for a while.

“The world we live in is so 24/7 - go, go, go nonstop. And the re-sponsibilities of having a family are so never ending that if you don’t get off the treadmill for a little while, you will suffer for it. The world won’t give you a break unless you take one for yourself,” exhorts Klayum.

Whatever goals you have for this year, make sure you include taking time to feed your spirit.

Parenting journalist and author LARA KRUPICKA most often fills up her spirit through crafts and reading a great book.

3 Tips For Getting Started• Get support. Hyun advocates enlist-

ing your spouse. “Tell them what feeds your soul, because if they don’t know they can’t help provide it for you.”

• Ditch the guilt. This is something you and your family need you to do. “People need to give themselves permission to play,” says Whalen.

• Study yourself. Watch for what drains you and what brings you energy. Then incorporate energizing activities into your life whenever possible.

a 13040 LIVINGSTON RDUNIT 16 | NAPLES | FL 34105

* Santa & Elsa | $15 includes visit with Santa, printed photo with Santa & Elsa, hot chooclate and decorate your own sugar cookie and photo frame |

Dec. 12, 4:30-8:30 | Reservations Required

* All services and haircuts $10 | Dec. 10-14

* Winter Workshops, Drop offs, Mondays & Fridays | Dec. 19-Jan. 5 visit lollipops.com & click workshops for schedule

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LOLLIPOPSKIDS SPA

December 2014.indd 13 11/18/14 11:26 AM


Massage is beneficial to almost any-one, but children in particular have an essential need for touch.

Touch stimulates our brains in many ways, most noticeably in our limbic cortex, which is the area of the brain that allows us to generate emotions and to make connection with others. In children, touch not only furthers growth and development, it is bio-logically necessary for survival, and can be a source of healing and healthy development.

The Benefits of Starting YoungSleeping through the night may not seem like a big feat for most, but for children, this full night’s rest can aid in the healing process and create the optimal time for the largest percentage of their healthy growth to take place. Pediatric massage has been found to have many benefits, including aid-ing children in falling asleep quicker, sleep-ing deeper and for longer periods of time.

Research has suggested that massage therapy can ease both physical symptoms and those associated with pediatric medical conditions. Studies have shown that pain, anxiety and depression can be minimized after massage. This gentle touch therapy also provides relief from chronic conditions such as asthma, nausea, constipation and muscle aches.

Immediately after receiving massage, children with juvenile rheumatoid arthritis notice decreased anxiety and stress hormone levels. For children with autism spectrum disorders--those who have difficulties with verbal language acquisition, eye-contact and tactile aversions--evidence suggests that the application of touch therapy may be very effective. After massage, children appear to relax more quickly and focus with greater success.

An Increased Need in Pediatric MassageProviding touch therapy is within the scope of practice of many health care providers

PEDIATRIC MASSAGEEssential Touch for Children

© Liddle Kidz Foundation

YOUR CHILD’S HEALTH By Tina Allen

December 2014.indd 14 11/18/14 11:29 AM


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including physicians, nurses, physical thera-pists and occupational therapists. However, massage is not frequently provided by these practitioners because of time constraints or lack of comfort with providing massage therapy.

Not all healthcare facilities have the services of those trained in pediatric mas-sage. There is an increasing need for more practitioners with specialized experience in pediatric massage therapy.

Inside the Healthcare SettingMassage therapy can enhance a child’s hospital experience and allow for healing. It can provide comfort for families as no other procedures will occur during a massage.

The number of children receiving a va-riety of complementary alternative medicine (CAM) therapies is growing internationally, as more healthcare practitioners become educated in the area, and parents read the research findings advocating for these services. Children benefit from the unique combination of Western medicine, Eastern medicine and the addition of CAM.

For the healthcare professional inspired to practice pediatric massage, there are many considerations to prepare for when providing age-specific and developmentally

appropriate therapy. Further training is required to feel fully confident providing pediatric massage.

At HomeParents can learn at-home massage tech-niques that may impact their child’s health. An understanding of specific techniques can provide a valuable resource when your child has growing pains, exam anxiety or difficulty falling asleep at night.

You can find a step by step guide to massaging your child at www.liddlekidz.com but here are the basic steps:1. Relax, take your time and always ask

permission.2. Massage over clothing without any oil

or under clothing with a small amount of oil, warmed in your hands.

3. Move from child’s hip to foot, stroking slowly with very little pressure.

4. Stomach massage to help with colic, gas and constipation (not after eating!) should be done in slow, clockwise motions.

5. Stroke child’s back, starting at the shoulders, over butt and down the legs, showing extra care not to put any pressure on her spine.

TINA ALLEN, founder of the children’s health and nurturing touch organization Liddle Kidz™ Foundation, is a lecturer, author and authority on infant and pediat-ric massage. Her work has been featured in print, media and television internationally and she has helped to create pediatric massage programs in leading medical institutions. She travels 365 days a year in a tour bus with her husband and son.

FOR MORE INFORMATION: Web:www.liddlekidz.com Resources, articles and a directory of provid-ers and more.

Books:Baby Massage: The Calming Power of Touch by Alan Heath

Infant Massage–Revised Edition: A Handbook for Loving Parents by Vimala Schneider McClure

Local Providers:Eisa Lindner Massage therapy for adults and children. Trained by Tina Allen.(239) 595-4073

December 2014.indd 15 11/18/14 11:31 AM


CITY CONNECTION PARKS DEPT. By Laura Tichy-Smith

There are lots of fun things to see and do in Decem-

ber courtesy of the City of Naples Community Services Department.

Free Christmas Parade

Kick off your family’s celebration at this parade where a certain jolly old elf is almost certain to make an early appearance. The fun begins at 6 p.m. on Tuesday, December 9, at the corner of Broad Avenue South and 3rd Street South, just north of the Naples Pier.

The parade route proceeds north on 3rd Street to 5th Avenue South, then after traveling east on 5th Avenue, the route turns south at the corner of 8th Street South to end in front of Cambier Park around 8 p.m. For more information, call (239) 213-7120.

Free Holiday Open House for Families

Your family will get into the holiday mood at the annual “Preserving the Holiday Spirit” Open House. The Naples Preserve will be transformed into a holiday wonderland with live animals, live music, seasonal refresh-ments, naturally decorated holiday trees, night video footage of the Preserve’s wildlife and guided night tour of the boardwalk at this

extraordinary nature preserve in the heart of the city. Scheduled for Friday, December 12 through Sunday, December 14 from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. The entertainment schedule is as follows: Friday will feature Steel Drum Music and Meet the Discovery Reptiles from 6 to 7 p.m.; Saturday will feature Jazz Music and Meet Trouper the Blind Raccoon (who is the star of his own award-winner children’s book) from 4 to 7 p.m. and Discovery Reptiles from 4 to 7 p.m.; Sunday will feature Irish Music and Meet a Wolfdog from Shy Wolf Sanctuary from 4 to 7 p.m. and Discovery Reptiles from 4 to 7 p.m. All three evenings will feature the “Litter Critter” mascot char-acter from Keep Collier Beautiful teaching

December is Aglow at Naples City Parks

Don’t miss the New Year’s Eve

Fireworks Celebration

December 31 at 7:30 p.m.

December 2014.indd 16 11/18/14 11:32 AM


children about the environment and providing a photo opportunity. Please bring canned food donation for Harry Chapin Food Bank. For more information, call (239) 261-4290. The Naples Preserve is located at 1690 Tamiami Trail N., Naples, at the corner of U.S. 41 & Fleischmann Blvd.

Free Festive Year-End Finale Fireworks

A fabulous finale for your holiday celebrations, the City of Naples’ breathtaking New Year’s Eve fireworks display rockets over the water from the Naples Pier starting at 7:30 p.m. on December 31. Park in the early evening at one of the many city beach access points along Gulf Shore Boulevard (free with your beach parking sticker), and enjoy the fiery beauty of nature’s sunset show with your family before the fireworks begin. For more information, call (239) 213-7120.

Winter Break Holiday Camp for Grades K thru 6th

Need childcare when school is closed but you have to work? Both Fleischmann and River Parks have you covered. They have planned fun activities for your child’s day off from school, including crafts, games and sports. Holiday Camp runs 7:30 a.m. -- 5:30 p.m. You must register no later than no later than one week prior to the event. Camp runs December 22, 23, 26, 29, 30, and 31, 2014, and January 2, 5, and 6, 2015. $25 per day. To register, call Fleischmann Park (239) 213-3020 or River Park (239) 213-3037.

High and Beyond Climbing Camp! (Ages 5 and up)

Have kids who love climbing? This is the vacation camp for them. The camp teaches different strategies to different levels of climbers, but helps all with self-confidence. Climbing camp runs Dec. 29, 30 and 31 from 9 a.m. -- 12 p.m. Cost is $75. To register, call (239) 213-3020. Held at Fleischmann Park, 1600 Fleischmann Ave., Naples.

Lacrosse Camp for Girls

Help your girls break into a new sport this winter break. Lacrosse camp runs Dec. 29, 30 and 31 from 9 a.m. -- 1 p.m. Cost is $99. To register, call (239) 213-3020. Held at Fleischmann Park, 1600 Fleischmann Ave., Naples.

Winter Holiday Lil’ Putters Golf Camp (Age 5 to 9)

Your kids can become a chip off the old putt when they learn the ba-sics of golf. December 29 through 31 and Jan. 2 from 4:30 — 6 p.m. To register, call (239) 213-3020. Held at Fleischmann Park, 1600 Fleischmann Ave., Naples.

Free Holiday Open Houses at The Naples Preserve

December 2014.indd 17 11/18/14 12:27 PM


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Free Family Activity SaturdaysSaturdays, 1:30 to 3:30pmDecember 6 & 20 January 3

Incredible traveling exhibition for all ages

FOLDING PAPERThe Infinate Possibliities of Origami

Sponsored by The Sansom Foundation

Folding Paper is curated by Meher McArthur with tour organized by the Japanese American National Museum, Los Angeles, and International Arts & Artists, Washington, DC. The exhibition was generously supported by the E. Rhodes & Leona B. Carpenter Foundation.

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December 2014.indd 18 11/18/14 12:28 PM


YOUR COMMUNITY NEWS

Lollipops Kids Spa Celebrates First Anniversary

Lollipops Kids Spa, Naples first children’s spa, celebrates its first anniversary this December. According to owner and creator, Shannon Porter: “We are very

thankful for such a warm reception here in Southwest Florida and we have really enjoyed building relationships within the community. It has been our passion to help each child who comes to our spa enjoy their experience to the fullest.”

To celebrate Lollipops 1st Anniversary, special discounts will be offered December 10-14 when spa services and haircuts will be $10. Also planned on December 12th is a special Santa and Frozen’s Elsa photo shoot for $15. This includes a visit with Santa, printed photo, hot chocolate, cookie decorating and a craft.

In addition to spa services and party planning, children can enjoy manicures, pedicures, make-up and hair services along with party activi-ties such as arts and crafts, dancing, tea parties and full costume dress up.

From mommy-and-me appointments to play-date adventures to full party planning packages, Lollipop’s has everything you need for a unique pampering event. For more information, visit www.lol-lipopskidsspa.com.

Lollipops is located at 13040 Livingston Road, Unit 16 in Naples. Call (239) 287-4066 or email [email protected] for addi-tional information.

Kittens, Dogs, and Cookies, Oh My!

Get ready for a furry extravaganza experience. Planet Tails, a pet lifestyle center, is opening in Naples at The Shoppes at Vanderbilt.

Planet Tails offers quirky gifts, quality pet food, small dog daycare, and cat boarding. This mega center offers so much for the community –especially kids.

Owned by pet product guru Ericka Basile, the gifts and treats at Planet Tails are unique. Basile is a pet product scout for Good Morning America. As a judge at Global Pet Expo, she has worked with everyone from “America’s Veterinarian” Dr. Marty Becker to trainers Cesar Mil-lan and Victoria Stilwell. Basile began her animal endeavors in Naples in 2006 with her publication Naples Dog Magazine.

Visitors to the Cat Cafe can enjoy a complimentary cookie and cof-fee while cuddling adoptable kittens. You can marvel at moon jellyfish and seahorses in the aquarium center. Birthday par-ties and Kids Critter Crafts Classes are available.

For more information on Planet Tails, check www.planettails.com or call (239) 653-9767. Planet Tails is located at 2355 Vanderbilt Beach Road, Suite 124, Naples.

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December 2014.indd 20 11/18/14 12:28 PM


YOUR COMMUNITY NEWS

Fall programs at Conservancy of Southwest Florida

Conservancy of Southwest Florida is now offering new fall educa-tional programs, including a Junior Vet Lab, guided trail walks,

live animal programs and a Spanish-language reptile talk.The Junior Vet Lab is an interactive play space where children can

learn how veterinarians care for animals, and the children can role-play with native animals (of the “stuffed” species). The Junior Vet Lab is open Mondays through Saturdays from 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. in the Nature Center’s Sapakie Family Classroom.

The Nature Center features new daily presentations. At 10:15 a.m., a guided trail walk will lead visitors through the Lagoon and Hammock Trails. Daily programs include:

11:15 a.m.: “Wild Discoveries”1:15 p.m.: “Secrets of Sea Turtles”2:15 p.m.: “What’s New at the Wildlife Hospital”The new Spanish-language program, featuring live reptiles of

Southwest Florida, will take place Saturdays at 1:30 p.m.Electric boat tours are also available from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. The

45-minute ride along the Gordon River, led by a Conservancy-trained volunteer, is free with admission.

The programs are included in price of admission to the Conser-vancy Nature Center, and children ages 2 and younger are free.

In addition, kayak rentals are available from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Take a guided tour of the Gordon River or head out on your own to explore the natural beauty of Southwest Florida. Kayak rentals and guided tours are available for an upgraded cost.

All Conservancy Nature Center programs and events are online at www.conservancy.org/nature-center.

Milestones Learning Center to Host Christmas Tree Open House Milestones Learning Center is offering 3-foot trees to local business to decorate for the holiday. The decorated trees will then be displayed at the center. An Open House is scheduled for December 11at 5:30

p.m. for the community to see all the decorated trees.There will be 20 small trees and an additional

6 full size trees as well as other holiday decorations and activities throughout the center. Mr. and Mrs. Santa Claus will be available for visits and photos

will be taken and emailed to parents. All businesses will be given the choice of

having their tree donated in their name to a family in need for the holidays. Visitors are asked to bring a canned good as their admissions fee which will be donated to local families in need.

Milestones Learning Center is lo-cated at 19850 Breckenridge Dr,

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

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YOUR COMMUNITY NEWS

Free Car Seat Safety Checks at Twinkle Twinkle Little Store

Did you know that 4 out of 5 child car seats are installed incorrectly or used improperly? There are several Certified CPS (Child Pas-

senger Safety) Technicians at Twinkle Twinkle Little Store who want to help. A technician will check to make sure the age and weight of the child is appropriate for the car seat you have, and check the direc-tion and installation of the car seat as well as checking to be sure the car seat is compatable with your car and that it is easy for you to use.

Call the store at (239) 262-5904 or visit 4172 Tamiami Trail North, Naples to schedule your free appointment.

Great Outdoor Adventure Day

Lovers Key State Park will host the Annual Great Outdoor Adven-ture Day on Saturday, December 6th from 10 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.,

located at the kayak launch/ picnic area of the park. Food, touch tanks, children’s activities, as well as ranger-led programs will highlight the fun-filled day geared towards encouraging participants to recreate responsibly while enjoying the park’s unique habitats and wide variety of wildlife. Rangers and volunteers will offer opportunities to see the park through programs such as guided kayak tours, walking nature tours, bike tours, geo-caching, fishing clinics, and more. Exhibitors will include local environmental organizations, as well as outdoor equipment and healthy lifestyle vendors.

This community-based event is free with regular park entrance of $8 per vehicle of up to eight people, $4 for a single occupant and $2 per pedestrian or bicyclist. Guided Kayak tours will be $10/per person, kayak rental included.

Lovers Key State Park is located at 8700 Estero Blvd., Fort Myers Beach. For additional information contact the Ranger Station at (239) 463-4588 or visit www.friendsofloverskey.org.

Holiday Class at Dance Arts

Dance Arts by Maria, Inc will be hosting a special Mommy and Me “holiday edition” class on Wednesday, December 10. Dress

in festive colors, dance to holiday music, and enjoy special treats after class. Class will be held from10:00-10:45 a.m. Dance Arts by Maria is located at 5610 Yahl Street, #10, Naples. Call (239) 513-6999 for information.

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YOUR COMMUNITY DECEMBER EVENTS

CALENDAR SUBMISSIONS: To submit your event for both our online and print calendars go to www.neafamily.com and follow the instruc-tions 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.

1 MondayCall for time. Santa’s Wonderland-Classic Christmas at Bass Pro Shops. Over 3,500 square foot Christmas village filled with fun games, activities and crafts for the whole family. Animated and live elves, nutcrackers, reindeer and more. Located at 10040 Gulf Center Dr, Fort Myers, (239) 461-7800. Runs through December 24.

Call for time. A Christmas Carol at Broad-way Palm. Based on Charles Dickens’ story, A Christmas carol is a musical version of the classic Christmas tale. Call 239-278-4422 for ticket information. Located at 1380 Colonial Blvd., Ft. Myers. Runs through December 24.

10:00 AM. Baby-Parent Rhyme Time at South Country Regional Library. This pro-gram is for the whole family and lasts about 30 minutes. Registration is required. South Country Regional Library, 21100 Three Oaks Pkwy, Estero. Held weekly on Monday.

11:30 AM. 27th Annual Dan Conley Memo-rial Golf Tournament to Benefit the YMCA. Registration for this event begins at 11:30 a.m., followed by a lunch at noon. Shot gun start will be at 12:30 p.m.. $150 per person. Includes: Cart & green fees, lunch, dinner and

two drink tickets. Held at Kensington Golf Club, 2700 Pine Ridge Road, Naples. Check http://greaternaplesymca.org/event/30th-dan-connelly-memorial-golf-tournament/ for more information.

5:00 PM. Let It Snow at the Village. Photos with Santa, stories with Mrs. Claus, Dickens Carolers and much more. Snow starts at 7 p.m. Held at The Village on Venetian Bay, 4200 Gulf Shore Blvd. North, Naples. Held every Saturday through December 20.

8:00 PM. 20th Anniversary Season Open-ing Concert. The Opening Night Concert is entitled “Let the Celebration Begin” and includes several exciting performer debuts on the Sugden Theatre stage. The Fifth Avenue Chamber Orchestra will be the musical anchor for the night. Featured instrumentalists will be the principal strings of the orchestra comprised of the Amernet String Quartet who will be in residence for the season. Tickets are $60.00. For Classic Chamber Concert’s 2014-2015 full performance schedule, visit www.Clas-sicChamberConcerts.org or call 239-263-7990. Held at Sugden Community Theatre, 701 5th Ave S., Naples.

December 2014.indd 26 11/18/14 12:30 PM


2 Tuesday10:00 AM. Moms and Tots Story time 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. Held weekly on Tuesday.

1:00 PM. Christmas at Palm Cottage. Cre-ate a new tradition by visiting Historic Palm Cottage during the holidays and enjoy period-relevant holiday decorations in the house and Norris Gardens. Held at Historic Palm Cot-tage, 137 12th Avenue South, Naples. Call (239) 261-8164 for information. Open through December 30.

4:00 PM. Annual Holiday in the Park. Musi-cal guests, snow slide and snowfall area for kids, free cookies and apple cider, children and family activities and the lighting of the city’s Christ-mas tree. Roverside Park in downtown Bonita Springs, call 239-949-6262 for information.

4:00 PM. Wrap it Up at Vanderbilt Beach Library. Drop in and learn how to make beau-tiful bows and gift tags. We will supply paper, scissors, and tape. Bring your holiday gifts to wrap. Open to ages 11-17 years. Registration is not required. Located at 788 Vanderbilt Beach Road, Naples. Check www.collierlibrary.org

Bay Blvd., Naples. Call 239-597-1900 for information.

6:00 PM. Big Fish Camp Begins. All kids 3 years of age through 5th grade are invited to Big Fish Camp at First Baptist Church of Bonita Springs on Wednesday nights from 6 - 8 pm. Each Wednesday night is packed full of games, crafts, activities, exciting lessons and much more. Everyone who brings a friend receives a special prize. Big Fish Camp is free of charge. We also offer an optional “kid friendly” dinner for $3.00 per child ($15 family maximum). Held at First Baptist Church of Bonita Springs, 3971 Via Del Rey, Bonita Springs. Call (239) 992-2952 for more information.

6:00 PM. Holiday Tree Lighting at Mercato. Holiday Tree lighting Ceremony featuring the largest LIVE tree in Southwest Florida. Perfor-mances by Backstage Dance Academy, Victo-rian carolers and more. Emceed by ABC-7’s Krista Fogelsong. Located at 9128 Strada Place, Naples. Call 239-594-9400 for information.

4 ThursdayCall for time. Christmas Lights Canal Cruise. A tradition in Punta Gorda for more than 30 years, these popular, family-oriented cruises tour the residential canals to view Christmas lights, displays and decorations on homes, boats, seawalls and docks. Three departures are offered

more information.

5:30 PM. Snowman Soup at South County Regional Library. Adopt an “attitude of grati-tude” this winter season and show the special people in your life how much you care by cre-ating a heartfelt gift. Sponsored by the Friends of South County Regional Library, Inc. Regis-tration is required. Located at South County Regional Library, 21100 Three Oaks Pkwy., Estero. Call (239) 533-4400 for information.

3 Wednesday10:00 AM. Free Kids Crafts at Miromar Outlets. Kids from toddlers to twelve are invited to participate in free fun activities. Located at 10801 Corkscrew Rd., Estero. Call (239) 948-3766 for more information. Held weekly on Wednesday.

10:30 AM. Family Story Time at Bonita Springs Library. A storytime the whole fam-ily and lasts about 30 minutes. Located at 26876 Pine Avenue, Bonita Springs. Call (239) 533-4860 for information. Held weekly on Wednesday.

2:00 PM. Make and Take Crafts at Artis-Naples. Make-and-Take workshops present opportunities for kids and adults alike to learn about a featured museum exhibition, and then create their own artwork inspired by the exhibition. Held at Artis-Naples, 5833 Pelican

Tuesday, december 16Th

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For futher information please contact our offices at 239-262-4474 and 263-2620 • www.chabadnaples.com

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Featuring • Live performance of one of Israel’s top rock-jazz guitarists, the amazing Lazer Lloyd!

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• Rita’s Frozen Treats • Edible menorahs, arts and crafts, and lots of fun for the entire family!THE EvEnT IS FREE oF CHaRgE To THE EnTIRE CoMMunITy.

December 2014.indd 27 11/18/14 12:30 PM


nightly at 6:00 p.m., 7:30 p.m. and at 9:00 p.m. Trip length is one hour, cost is $16.00 for adults, half price for kids 3-11, free under 3. Private charters and group rates also available. Call 941-639 0969 for information. www.kingfisherfleet.com. Held at Fisherman’s Village Marina, 1200 W. Retta Esplanade, 57A, Punta Gorda. Check http://www.fishville.com/marina/ for additional information. Runs through December 31.

9:00 AM. Coconut Point Farmer’s Market. The Coconut Point Farmers Market is held at 23105 Fashion Drive in Estero. This market is an outdoor, dog-friendly shopping destination featuring local seafood, meats, beautiful flowers, locally harvested honey, baked goods, hand-made soaps, hand-woven baskets and hats, and one-of-a-kind hand crafted items. Call 239-992-9966 for information. Held weekly on Thursday.

10:00 AM. Baby-Parent Rhyme Time at South Country Regional Library. This pro-gram is for the whole family and lasts about 30 minutes. Registration is required. Located at 21100 Three Oaks Pkwy, Estero. Call 239- 479-4636 for information.

10:30 AM. Farmer Minor and Daisy at Marco Island Library. Come enjoy a special story time with Farmer Minor and his real live pig, Daisy. Have fun learning all about pigs with stories and songs. Open to ages 2-5 years Located at 210 S. Heathwood Drive, Marco Island. Check http://public.collier-lib.org for more information.

5:00 PM. Christmas Tree Lighting on 5th Avenue. Immediately following the lighting of the Tree and decorations, activities will kick off on 5th Avenue with choral groups, musi-cal ensembles, dance troupes and community groups with Holiday activities including pictures with Santa. Held on 5th Avenue in downtown Naples. Check www.fifthavenuesouth.com for additional information.

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. Located at 9101 Strada Place, Naples. Call 239-552-5100 for information.

5:30 PM. Gingerbread House Workshop at Immokalee Library. Located at 417 North First Street, Immokalee. Decorate a cookie house with delicious treats. Open to ages 2 years and older. Call 239-657-2882 or check http://public.collier-lib.org for information.

7:00 PM. Peaceful Mind at Monarch Therapy. 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 and bring yoga mat and blanket for comfort. Held at Monarch Therapy, 4500 Executive Drive, Naples. Check http://www.MonarchTherapy.com or call 239-325-9210 for additional information. Held

weekly on Thursday.

5 Friday11:30 AM. Family Paint Session at Vino’s Picasso. Bring the whole family to Vino’s Picasso Naples for a special holiday paint ses-sion of our Nutcracker. Open to ages 7+. $34 includes all supplies. Register online at www.vinospicassonaples.com or by calling the studio at 239.431.8750. Located at 2367 Vanderbilt Beach Rd., Naples.

3:30 PM. Holiday Art at Golden Gate Library. Local artist Gena Smith will create festive holiday art by offering a poinsettia project with collage tissue paper and oil pastel. Open to grades 2 through 5. Located at 2432 Lucerne Road, Naples. Call 239-252-4542 or check http://public.collier-lib.org for information.

4:45 PM. Elves Sweet Shoppe at Vineyards Community Park. Kids help Santa’s Elves prepare yummy holiday goodies every week! Cookies, Candy Houses, and other fun holiday treats will be made! Must preregister by Dec 2nd. Open to ages 5-12. Runs weekly through December 17. $30. Located at 6231 Arbor Rd., Naples. Call 239-363-9669 or check http://col-liergov.net for additional information.

6:00 PM. Cypress 60th Anniversary Jubilee Gala. The guest of honor and keynote speaker is Jim Fowler, a professional zoologist who was

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host of the Emmy Award-winning television show Mutual of Omaha’s Wild Kingdom. The event is limited to 200 people, with a ticket price of $200 per person. The event will feature a four-course plated dinner by Crave Culinaire by Brian Roland, walks through the forest un-der the stars, musical entertainment including Naples Philharmonic violinist Jeff Leigh, an art and photo exhibit, and a silent auction. RSVP to [email protected] or call Lori Piper, (239) 348-9151 ext. 113.

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. Held at Whole Foods, 9101 Strada Place. Call 239-552-5100 for information.

7:00 PM. Big Cypress Birthday Bash. Fea-turing live music and dancing to the JJ McCoy Band from 7 to 10 PM on the grounds of the Collier County Museum, 3331 Tamiami Trail East. Ticket levels are $75 or $125 per person. All tickets for the Big Cypress Birthday Bash include a 2015 Clyde Butcher calendar (retail value $20). The first 100 ticket buyers will also receive a free DVD copy of the acclaimed nature documentary Big Cypress Swamp: The Western Everglades. Clyde & Niki Butcher are scheduled to attend both events and Clyde will be available on Saturday to sign his 2015 calendar.

6 Saturday8:00 AM. Boston Red Sox Spring Training Tickets on Sale. Fans can purchase tickets starting at 10 a.m. at JetBlue Park, or by phone at 888-REDSOX6, or at redsox.com. Fans needing ADA accessible seating may call 877-REDSOX9. Hearing impaired fans may call the Red Sox TTY line at (617) 226-6644.

Call for time. Jacob Marley’s A Christmas Carol. In a magical departure from the Dick-ens classic, Jacob Marley finds himself in Hell and the adventure begins. Held at Gulfshore Playhouse, 755 8th Ave S. Naples. Runs through December 21. Check http://www.gulfshoreplayhouse.org or call 239-213-3049 for information.

Call for time. One-Day Saturday Art Class. Great art classes offer students ages 3-18 the opportunity to connect, grow and challenge themselves in a supportive environment. Classes include drawing, painting, duct tape crafts, sew-ing, cooking and more. Call 232-495-8989 for more information. Held at Center for Perform-ing Arts-Moe Auditorium, 10150 Bonita Beach Road SE, Bonita Beach.

7:30 AM. Third Street South Farmer’s Mar-ket. Local produce, food items, flowers and more. Held in the parking lot behind Tommy Bahama’s off Third Street South in Naples. Call 239-434-6533 for additional information. Held

weekly on Saturday.

8:00 AM. Farmer’s Market. Held at the Shoppes at Vanderbilt, corner of Vanderbilt and Airport roads in North Naples. Call 239-273-2350 for information. Held weekly on Saturday.

9:00 AM. Breakfast with Santa at Immokalee Community Park. This event will have you cel-ebrating the Holidays with decorating cookies, sweet treats, crafts, face painting, and Santa pics. $2. Call 239-252-4000 for information. Held at Immokalee Community Park, 321 North 1st Street, Immokalee.

9:00 AM. Free Zoo Admission for Collier County Residents. 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. Located at Naples Zoo at Caribbean Gardens, 1590 Goodlette-Frank Road, Naples. Call 239-262-5409 or check http://www.carib-beangardens.com for information.

9:30 AM. Breakfast with Santa at Golden Gate Community Center. Located at 4701 Golden Gate Pkwy, Naples. Celebrate your holiday with a delicious pancake breakfast pro-vided by the GG Kiwanis Club and the GGCC staff. Bring your camera for pictures with Santa. Arts & crafts for the kids. Bus Transportation to Snow Fest provided after the event. $2. Call 239-252-4180 or check http://colliergov.net for more information.

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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.

10:00 AM. Great Outdoor Adventure Day at Lover’s Key. Held at Lovers Key State Park, 8700 Estero Blvd., Estero. Food, touch tanks, children’s activities, as well as Ranger-led pro-grams will highlight the fun-filled day geared towards encouraging participants to recreate responsibly while enjoying the park’s unique habitats and wide variety of wildlife. Free with park admission. Call 239-463-4588 for addi-tional information.

10:00 AM. Open House at Montessori Academy. Take a campus tour and learn more about the curriculum, staff and activi-ties. Located at 2659 Professional Circle, Suite 1118, Naples. Call 239-597-2255 or check www.naplesmontessori.org for additional in-formation.

10:30 AM. Pig Out on Reading at South Re-gional Library. Located at 8065 Lely Cultural Parkway, Naples. What do pigs like to read? Do pigs even know how to read? Come meet Farmer Minor and his real live pig, Daisy to find out. There may also be a couple of pigs along for the ride. Open to all ages. Registration is not required. Call 239-252-7542 or check http://public.collier-lib.org for additional information.

10:30 AM. Swamp Heritage Festival. This free family-friendly event shines a spotlight

upon the inhabitants of early South Florida, whose rugged strength and pioneering spirit contributed to the shaping of today’s unique and diverse culture. Through living history demonstrations, informative presentations, and exhibits everyone can learn what daily life was like in such a remote, and at times, inhospitable place. These unique chapters in American his-tory add to the rich and colorful tableau that comprises our shared past and present. You enjoy fascinating exhibits, live music and other performances, demonstrations, storytelling at the Campfire Corner, and great local food. Held at Big Cypress Swamp Welcome Center, 33000 Tamiami Trail East, Ochopee. Call 239-695-4758 or check http://www.nps.gov/bicy/planyourvisit/swampheritagefestival.htm for information.

1:30 PM. “Folding Paper: The Infinite Pos-sibilities of Origami” Activity Day. Enjoy a brief tour of the current exhibition “Folding Paper: The Infinite Possibilities of Origami” a hands-on, interactive exploration of origami with projects related to the theme of the exhibi-tion. A great afternoon for the entire family. Free and open to the public. Call 239-495-8989 or check www.artcenterbonita.org for information. Held at Center for the Arts of Bonita Springs, 26100 Old 41 Road, Bonita Springs.

2:00 PM. Miami City Ballet: The Nutcracker Ballet. George Balanchine’s ethereal masterpiece defines the holiday spirit. Join the Miami City Ballet and the Naples Philharmonic for one of the area’s favorite festive traditions. Held at Artis-Naples, 5833 Pelican Bay Blvd., Naples. Call 239-597-1900 or check http://www.the-phil.org for additional information. Also held at 8 pm on Saturday and 2:00 p.m. on Sunday.

3:00 PM. Snow Fest. Welcoming more than 15,000 people who want to see snow in Florida, no matter what the “real” weather is that day, snow will be in the forecast to celebrate the winter holiday. $2 per person, under 3 are free. Snow hills, ice skating rink, Santa’s Workshop, festive foods and full scale carnival have estab-lished Starting this year, Snowfest has been moved to the Golden Gate Community Center, 4701 Golden Gate Parkway, Naples. Check snowfestnaples.com for additional information.

5:00 PM. Let it Snow at Venetian Village. Join us at Holiday on the Bay every Saturday un-til Christmas! A festive snow show with strolling holiday carolers, free photos with Santa Claus and stories with Mrs. Claus. Snow show begins at 7 p.m. Also held 12/13 and 12/20. For more information visit venetianvillage.com

6:00 PM. Fort Myers Beach Boat Parade. This year we will be remembering Pearl Harbor

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and honoring World War II veteran Russ Winset who will be accompany-ing the parade on the lead boat. Check http://www.visitfortmyersbeach.com for additional information.

7:00 PM. David Lawrence Center Young Executives Gulf Ball. Tickets are $60 up to the day of the event and can be purchased online at www.DavidLawrenceCenter.org or by calling the David Lawrence Foundation at (239) 304-3505. Tickets include two drink tickets for beer and wine. Full bar is available on a cash basis.

7:00 PM. Fall Concert Series at Gulf Coast Town Center. Located at 9903 Gulf Coast Main Street, Estero. All concerts take place in Market Plaza until 9:00 p.m. Admission is free. Check http://www.gulfcoast-towncenter.com for more information.

7 SundayCall for time. Florida Hot Rods & Hogs Car and Bike Show. Spectator general admission to the all-day event is $15 for adults; children under 10 are FREE. Live entertainment will get your motors running with bands including Kate and The Keys, Mike Imbasciani and the Bluez Rockerz, Stolen Fruit and Maiden Cane. A special youth entertainment center, face painting, children’s finger printing and bounce houses will also be on site. Held at Lee Civic Center, 11831 Bayshore Rd., Ft. Myers. Call (239) 543-8368 or check www.leeciviccenter.com for information.

Call for time. Jazz in the Garden. Please remember to bring your own seating for all concerts and wear weather appropriate clothing. No outside food or beverage will be admitted to the Garden during special events. Food and beverage will be available at Fogg Cafe for purchase. Held at Naples Botanical Gardens, 4820 Bayshore Drive, Naples. Check www.naplesgarden.org for information.

11:00 AM. Car Cruise-In at Miromar Outlets. See all your favorite makes and models of classic, exotic and custom cars. Located near the Restaurant Piazza, lakeside. Located at 10801 Corkscrew Rd., Estero. Check www.miromaroutlets.com or call 239-948-3766 for information.

2:00 PM. Free Concerts at the Bandshell. Bring a blanket for the whole family and enjoy a free jazz concert in Cambier Park. Located at 755 8th Avenue South, Naples. Call 239-213-3058 for information.

8 Monday4:00 PM. Cookie Decorating at Naples Regional Library. Located at 650 Central Avenue, Naples. Decorate, and then eat holiday-inspired cookies. Open to ages 11-17 years. Call 239-262-6853 or check http://public.collier-lib.org for more information.

6:30 PM. Christmas Craft Workshop at Headquarters Library. Get ready to celebrate Christmas by creating a variety of crafts. Open to ages 2-9 years. Call 239-593-0870 or check http://public.collier-lib.org for more information.

7:00 PM. Home for the Holidays Concert. Voices of Naples. Free Event. Held at Emmanuel Day School, 777 Mooringline Drive. Call 239-403-3645 for more information.

9 Tuesday4:00 PM. Farmer Minor and Daisy the Pig at Vanderbilt Beach Library. Located at 788 Vanderbilt Beach Road, Naples. Come enjoy a special story time with Farmer Minor and his real live pig, Daisy. Have fun learning all about pigs with stories, songs and a simple pig craft. Open to ages 2-5 years. Call 239-597-8444 or check http://public.collier-lib.org for additional information.

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6:00 PM. Annual 5th Avenue Christmas Parade. The Naples Christ-mas Parade will Line up on Broad Ave. The Floats and bands will turn right on to 3rd Street South, then right on 5th Ave South, and end on 8th Street South. Call 239-692-8436 or check www.fifthavenuesouth.com for information.

10 Wednesday10:00 AM. Mommy and Me Holiday Class. Held at Dance Arts by Maria, children will dance to holiday music and enjoy special treats after class. Dance Arts is located at 5610 Yahl Street, #10, Naples. Call 239-513-6999 for information.

4:00 PM. Lego Club at Estates Library. Share ideas, be creative, make new friends and have fun! LEGO® bricks will be provided. Your LEGO® creation will be put on display at the library. Open to ages 5-11 years. Registration is not required. Located at 1266 Golden Gate Blvd. West, Naples. Call 239-455-8088 or check http://public.collier-lib.org for ad-ditional information.

7:30 PM. A Simpler Christmas with Wynonna and the Big Noise. A five-time Grammy winner and New York Times bestselling author, Wynonna’s career has always revolved around telling stories. Whether she’s using her rich, commanding voice to sing one of her countless hits or sitting down for one of her many bold, honest television appearances, Wynonna always gets her point across with unflinching honesty and wisdom gained over the course of her very public life. Now in her latest venture, Wynonna – along with her band, The Big Noise – will bring A Simpler Christmas to you as she performs some of her holiday favorites as well as her greatest hits. Held at Barbara B. Mann, 13350 Edison Parkway, Ft. Myers. Call 239-481-4849 or check http://www.bbmannpah.com for ticket information.

11 Thursday3:00 PM. Holiday Crafts at Marco Island Library. Drop in the library and bring your creative skills to make some fun crafts to celebrate the up-coming holidays. Open to ages 2-10 years. Located at 210 S. Heathwood Drive, Marco Island. Call 239-394-3272 or check http://public.collier-lib.org for additional information.

5:30 PM. Christmas Tree Open House. The public is invited to view 20 small and 6 full-size trees decorated by local businesses at a holiday open house at Milestones Learning Center. Mr. and Mrs. Claus will be available for visits and photos. Milestones is located at 19850 Breckenridge Drive, Estero. Call 239- 301-2962 or visit www.milestones-estero.com for information.

12 FridayCall for time. Santa and Elsa Photo Shoot at Lollipop’s Spa. $15 per child. Includes a visit with Santa, printed photo, hot chocolate, cookie decorating and a craft. Lollipops is located at 13040 Livingston Road, Unit 16, Naples. Call 239-287-4066 for information.

Call for time. The Nutcracker Goes Pop! Held at Sugden Community Theatre, 701 5th Ave S., Naples. Showtimes on December 12,13,14,19, 20 and 21. Call 239-434-7340 or check www.naplesplayers.org for ticket information.

4:00 PM. Holiday Open House at The Naples Preserve. The Naples Preserve will be transformed into a holiday wonderland with live animals, live music, seasonal refreshments, naturally decorated holiday trees, night video footage of the Preserve’s wildlife and guided night tour of the boardwalk at this extraordinary nature preserve in the heart of the city.

December 2014.indd 32 11/18/14 12:30 PM


Entertainment is scheduled for each day, plus all three evenings will feature the “Litter Critter” mascot character from Keep Collier Beautiful teaching children about the environment and providing a photo opportunity. Please bring canned food donation for Harry Chapin Food Bank. For more information, call (239) 261-4290. The Naples Preserve is located at 1690 Tamiami Trail N., Naples, at the corner of U.S. 41 & Fleischmann Blvd. Also held Saturday, December 13 and Sunday, December 14.

6:30 PM. Light Up the Estates at Max Hasse Community Park. Come join us for our annual tree lighting ceremony and pictures with Santa. There will be games, crafts, food and music to enjoy. $5 per family. Located at 3390 Golden Gate Pkwy., Naples. Call 239-348-7500 or check http://colliergov.net for additional in-formation.

7:00 PM. Annual Christmas Show. Featur-ing the Paradise Coastmen Barbershop Chorus and the Seacrest Country Day Chorus. Held at Norris Community Center, 755 8th Avenue South, Naples. Call 239-352-6366 or http://www.paradisecoastmen.org for tickets.

13 SaturdayCall for time. Christmas Festival. Bring your Holiday Spirit to this festival complete with food, crafts and local choral groups singing Christmas Carols. Free. Held on Ft. Myers

Beach, Ft. Myers. Check www.visitfortmy-ersbeach.com or call (239) 463-3600 for information.

8:00 AM. Community Yard Sale. This pro-gram is designed to let the general population buy or sell craft, or yard sale items. Must reserve spots at Golden Gate Community Center. $10 per reserved parking space. Open to the Public. Located at 4701 Golden Gate Pkwy., Naples. Call 239-252-4180 or check http://colliergov.net for information.

8:00 AM. Holiday Stroll at South Seas Island Resort. South Seas Island Resort on Captiva Island is hosting its second annual Holiday Stroll benefiting Golisano Children’s Hospital of Southwest Florida. Thousands of twinkling lights, stunning decorations, live entertain-ment, Santa visits, games and more will adorn the north end of the resort for guests to enjoy. To attend, public visitors are able to purchase a Captiva Village Coupon Book for $20 per person, including $500 in savings at local island outlets and a ride on the resort’s Jolley Trolley to the holiday stroll festivities. Call (239) 472-5111 or check www.southseas.com for more information.

9:00 AM. Breakfast with Santa at C’MON. Registration required by Dec. 5. Guests will enjoy a buffet breakfast with child and adult friendly fare. Santa will then surprise children with a gift during breakfast. Parents provide wrapped gift Dec 2-5. Held at Golisano Chil-

dren’s Museum of Naples, 15080 Livingston Road, Naples. To register contact Carolyn Williams at (239) 260-1600 or [email protected].

10:00 AM. Alliance for the Arts Gift Shop Explosion. Find unique gifts, support working artists, and mingle with your friends and neigh-bors. Alliance members receive 10% off their total purchase, a great savings for holiday shop-ping. Located at 10091 McGregor Boulevard, Ft. Myers. Call 239-939-2787 or check www.artinlee.org for more information.

10:00 AM. Arts and Crafts with Santa at East Naples Community Park. Come get into the holiday spirit while making arts and crafts with Santa. Pre-register by Dec. 5th. Open to ages: 4-12 Located at 3500 Thomasson Drive, Naples. Call 239-252-4414 or check http://colliergov.net for information.

10:00 AM. Fine Art and Craft Show. Naples Artcrafters is an association of artists and craft artisans. Held in Cambier Park, 755 8th Av-enue, South, Naples. Call 239-213-3058 for information.

10:00 AM. Holiday Collector Car Show. Held at Mercato, 9128 Strada Place, Naples. Over 100 exotic and collector cars including the Ferrari Club cars. Live music and toy donation drop off for Salvation Army’s toy drive. Call 239-594-9400 or check www.mercatoshops.com for additional information.

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For information on KidzAct class schedules and auditions visit us online at www.naplesplayers.org and click on Learn!

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December Picks

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Santa’s Wonderland-Classic ChristmasBass Pro Shops, 10040 Gulf Center Dr., Fort Myers

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A Christmas CarolBroadway Palm Dinner Theatre, Fort Myers

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Annual Holiday in the ParkRiverside Park in downtown Bonita Springs

Tuesday, December 2 • 4 - 8:30 p.m.Musical guests, snow slide and snowfall area for kids, free cookiesand apple cider, children and family activities and the lighting of

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Great Outdoor Adventure DayLovers Key State Park, 8700 Estero Blvd, Fort Myers Beach

Saturday, December 6 • 10 a.m. - 3 p.m.Food, music, touch tanks, children’s activities, as well

as Ranger-led programs will highlight the fun-filled day239-463-4588

1:00 PM. Holiday Party at Bonita Springs Library. Join the group at the Bonita Springs Library for an hour of outstanding holiday craft cre-ations. Have fun making and painting festive art projects to take home. Located at 26876 Pine Avenue, Bonita Springs. Call 239-992-0101 for more information.

2:00 PM. Teen Holiday Crafts at Bonita Springs Library. Stop by the Bonita Springs Library for an hour of holiday gift creations. Everyone will be able to take home these custom-made presents. Located at 26876 Pine Avenue, Bonita Springs. Call 239-992-0101 for more information.

5:00 PM. Christmas Around the World at Immokalee Sports Complex. The event is designed to provide families with a few hours of holiday enter-tainment. Fifty tons of ice turned into snow and a Sled Mountain. There will be games, art & crafts, music, entertainment, inflatable kids games and Santa Claus. $1 admission. Held at Immokalee Sports Complex, 505 Escambia Street, Immokalee. Call (239) 657-1951 for more information.

6:00 PM. MIACC Christmas Boat Parade. The parade may be viewed from: Pincher’s Crab Shack, Riverwalk Restaurant, Naples City Dock, Naples Landing, Kelly’s Fish House, The Boat House Restaurant and Bayview Park. 100% of the proceeds benefit Ricky King Foundation. Held at Tin City, 1200 Fifth Avenue, Naples. Call 239-262-4200 for more information.

7:00 PM. Holiday Concert by Naples Orchestra & Chorus. Purchase tickets online or at the door: http://naplesorchestraandchorus.org. Held at Lely High School, 1 Lely High Blvd., Naples. Check www.naplesorches-traandchorus.org or call 239-676-0077 for more information.

7:30 PM. The Bach Ensemble Christmas Concert. Held at Community Congregational Church, 15300 Tamiami Trail North, Bonita Springs. For ticket information go to www.thebachensemble.com.

8:00 PM. Christmas in Paradise Holiday Pops Concert. Held at Barbara B. Mann Performing Arts Hall, 13350 Edison Parkway, Ft. Myers. This season’s Holiday Pops Concert offers great holiday entertainment for the whole family and will make everyone appreciate spending the holidays in Florida’s balmy December weather even more. Tickets range from $20 to $82 and may be purchased in person at the Symphony box office, by calling 239-418-1500, online at www.swflso.org or at the door one hour prior to each concert.

14 Sunday9:00 AM. Holiday Shopping Day at My Gym. Head out for you shipping while your children enjoy fun activities at My Gym. Located at 13020 Livingston Road, Naples. Members $35/day Nonmembers $45/day. Siblings get $10 off. Call (239) 431-6499 for more information.

10:00 AM. Breakfast with Santa at C’MON. Registration required by Dec. 5. Guests will enjoy a buffet breakfast with child and adult friendly fare. Santa will then surprise children with a gift during breakfast. Parents provide wrapped gift Dec 2-5. Held at Golisano Children’s Museum of Naples, 15080 Livingston Road, Naples. To register contact Carolyn Williams at 239.260-1600 or [email protected].

2:00 PM. Free Concerts at the Bandshell. Bring a blanket for the whole family and enjoy a free jazz concert in Cambier Park. Located at 755 8th Avenue South, Naples. Call 239-213-3058 for information.

2:00 PM. Holiday Concert by Naples Orchestra & Chorus. Purchase tickets online or at the door: http://naplesorchestraandchorus.org. Held at Lely High School, 1 Lely High Blvd.,Naples.

15 Monday4:00 PM. QR Code Scavenger Hunt at South Regional Library. Come

December 2014.indd 34 11/18/14 12:31 PM


learn how to create your own QR (Quick Response) codes, and then go on a scavenger hunt for QR codes throughout the library. Open to ages 9-12 years. Registration limited. Held at South Regional Library, 8065 Lely Cultural Parkway, Naples. Call 239-252-7542 or check http://public.collier-lib.org for information.

5:30 PM. Hanukkah Grand Menorah Lighting at Coconut Point. Chabad of Bonita Springs invites the community to Monday’s tenth annual Grand Menorah lighting and Hanukkah festivities. The Jewish Festival of Lights will feature greetings by local and state dignitaries, live music by the Naples Klezmer, hot latkes and doughnuts, kosher deli for sale, arts and crafts, Menorahs and fine Judaica for sale. The celebration begins at 5:30 p.m. at Coconut Point on Fashion Drive near the movie theater. The mall is located off the east side of U.S. 41, just north of Coconut Road, in Estero. Call 239-992-9966 for more information.

5:30 PM. Holiday Cookie Decorating at Naples Regional Library. Held at Naples Regional Library, 650 Central Avenue, Naples. Decorate cookies for the holiday. Open to ages 3-11 years. Call 239-262-6853 or check http://public.collier-lib.org for additional information.

6:00 PM. Holiday Crafts at East Naples Library. Bring your fam-ily and celebrate the season by making some Hanukkah and Christmas crafts. Open to ages 2 years and older. Located at 8787 Tamiami Trail East, Naples. Call 239-775-5592 or check http://public.collier-lib.org for additional information.

6:30 PM. Hanukkah Craft Workshop at Headquarters Library. Get ready to celebrate Hanukkah by creating a variety of crafts. Open to ages 2-9 years. Located at 2385 Orange Blossom Drive, Naples. Call 239-593-0870 or check http://public.collier-lib.org for more information.

16 Tuesday1:00 PM. Cookie Decorating Party at Veterans Community Park. $15 per person. Located at 1895 Veterans Park Drive, Naples. Call 239-566-2367 or check http://colliergov.net for additional information.

2:00 PM. Holiday Cookie Decorating at Estates Library. Located at 1266 Golden Gate Blvd. W., Naples. Drop in to decorate some cookies (while supplies last). Open to ages 3 years and older. Registration is not required. Call 239-455-8088 or check http://public.collier-lib.org for more information.

4:00 PM. Chabad Naples Annual Hanukkah Festival. Featuring: Chanukah -- Frozen? ...with snowballs and snowflakes! We’re going to make snow and provide snow-activities for all the kids, large and small. There will be an Ice Menorah and more. Booth with edible menorahs, arts and crafts, and lots of fun for the entire family. Held at Cambier Park, 755 8th Avenue South, Naples. Call 239-213-3058 for more information.

5:00 PM. Venetian Village Boat Parade. Join us for a Village tradition as we watch the twinkling procession of boats make their way down Ve-netian Bay. Enjoy holiday carolers, our very own magician, face painting, stories with Mrs. Claus and a special appearance by Santa Claus. Located at 4200 Gulf Shore Blvd., Naples. Check http://venetianvillage.com for more information.

6:00 PM. Movies on the Lawn: A Christmas Story. Held on the lawn across from Yogurbella and Silverspot. Lawn chairs and blankets welcome. Held at Mercato, 9128 Strada place, Naples. Call 239-594-9400 or check www.mercatoshops.com for more information.

17 Wednesday6:00 PM. Night Lights at Naples Botanical Gardens. Located at 4820 Bayshore Drive, Naples. Enjoy live musical performances, family activities,

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and thousands of lights throughout the Garden every night. Call 239-643-7275 or check www.naplesgarden.org for more information. Runs through December 31.

18 ThursdayCall for time. Holiday Pops with the von Trapps. The von Trapps ac-company the Naples Philharmonic and the Naples Philharmonic Chorus for our festive Holiday Pops. Heirs to the musical tradition detailed in The Sound of Music, the von Trapps have performed throughout the world. Runs through December 21. Held at Artis-Naples, 5833 Pelican Bay Blvd., Naples. Call 239-597-1900 for additional information.

10:30 AM. Cookies and Milk with Santa at Vineyards Community Park. Come listen to Santa as he reads Twas the Night Before Christmas. He will also bring some of his favorite cookies and milk to share. Must register by Dec 15th. Open to ages: 2 - 5. $10. Located at 6231 Arbor Rd., Naples. Call 239-363-9669 or check http://colliergov.net for more information.

12:00 PM. Young Adult Book Discussion: Paper Towns By John Green at Vanderbilt Beach Library. Read the book before the movie is released in the spring of 2015. A month before graduating from a Central Florida high school, “Q” basks in the predictable boringness of his life until the beautiful and exciting Margo, Q’s neighbor and classmate, takes him on a midnight adventure and then mysteriously disappears. Refreshments will be served. Open to ages 11-17 years. 788 Vanderbilt Beach Road, Naples. Call 239-597-8444 or check http://public.collier-lib.org for more information.

5:30 PM. Here Comes Santa Claus at Immokalee Library. Santa Claus is coming to your library. Be sure to come by and whisper what you want for Christmas. Don’t forget your camera. All ages welcome. Located at 417 North First Street, Immokalee. Call 239-657-2882 or check http://public.collier-lib.org for more information.

5:45 PM. Chanukah Celebration at Mercato. On the lawn across from The Pub. Greetings from community leaders, candle lighting and live Klezmer music. Presented by the Jewish Federation of Collier County. Located at 9128 Strada Place, Naples. Call 239-594-9400 or check www.mercatoshops.com for information.

6:30 PM. Tuba Christmas. Free concert in front of Sugden Theatre in downtown Naples. Located at 701 5th Ave S., Naples. Check www.fifthavenuesouth.com for more information.

6:30 PM. Unique Jewelry for Tweens and Teens at Headquarters Library. Design and fashion some one-of-a-kind wearable art out of duct tape, balloons and beads. Open to ages 11-17 years. Located at 2385 Or-ange Blossom Drive, Naples. Call 239-593-0870 or check http://public.collier-lib.org for more information.

7:00 PM. Santa Paws. Bring out the pups to meet and take holiday pho-tos with Santa. Held at Venetian Village, 4200 Gulf Shore Blvd., Naples. Check http://venetianvillage.com for more information.

19 Friday1:30 PM. Winter Break Blastoff! At Naples Regional Library. Can we make it snow in Florida? Join us for trivia and treats. Registration is not required. Located at 650 Central Avenue, Naples. Call 239-262-6853 or check http://public.collier-lib.org for more information.

4:45 PM. Candy House Creations at Vineyards Community Park. Use an assortment of candy, frosting and cookies to design your own candy house! Everything included to make a yummy work of art! Must pre-register by Dec 15. Open to ages 5-12. $10 per child. Located at 6231 Arbor Rd., Naples. Call 239-363-9669 or check http://colliergov.net for

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7:00 PM. Fort Myers Music Walk. The River District comes alive with live music. Over a dozen participating venues feature music by local and regional talent. From jazz and blues to rock, drums and much more. Held downtown at Hen-dry and First Streets, Ft. Myers. Check www.fortmyersmusicwalk.com for more information.

20 Saturday8:00 AM. Max Hasse Community Yard Sale. Find yard sale bargains with the convenience of having all the sales in one location. If you are interested in reserving a spot to sell used items call 239-348-7500 to reserve a spot. For more information check http://colliergov.net. Located at 3390 Golden Gate Pkwy., Naples.

8:00 AM. Reindeer Run 5K. Don your favorite holiday apparel and break out that Santa hat for a festive, fun-filled Reindeer Run 5K. Our Santa Sprint for the little ones will start at 8am with the Reindeer Run 5K immediately following. With Santa, hot cocoa and candy canes awaiting you at the finish line, it will be a holly jolly time for the whole family! Proceeds from the race will benefit Girls on the Run of Collier County. Held at Community School of Naples, 13275 Livingston Rd., Naples. Call (239) 591-0204 or check www.communityschoolnaples.org for more information.

10:00 AM. Kidgits Holiday Celebration at Coconut Point Mall. Celebrate the season and spread holiday cheer at the Kidgits annual holiday celebration. Kids can get festive with various crafts and activities including making their own ornament, writing a letter to Santa and decorating a gift box to celebrate The Boxtrolls, available this Holiday Season. Located at 23106 Fashion Drive, Estero. Call 239-992-9966 for more information.

1:30 PM. “Folding Paper: The Infinite Possi-bilities of Origami” Activity Day. Enjoy a brief

tour of the current exhibition “Folding Paper: The Infinite Possibilities of Origami” a hands-on, interactive exploration of origami with projects related to the theme of the exhibition. A great afternoon for the entire family. Free and open to the public. Call 239-495-8989 or check www.artcenterbonita.org for more information. Located at 26100 Old 41 Road, Bonita Springs.

2:00 PM. Pig Out on Reading At South County Regional Library. Daisy, the famous pot-bellied pig, and Farmer Minor have been all over the country sharing their love of reading. Farmer Minor will tell stories about Daisy and read books. There will also be plenty of time to hug or pet Daisy. Located at 21100 Three Oaks Pkwy, Estero. Call 239-479-4636 for more information.

7:00 PM. Yuletide Shakespeare. The students from Marco Island Academy will perform a showcase of works from some of Shakespeare’s most renowned plays. Held at Marco Island Players, 1055 N. Collier Blvd., Marco Island. Call 239-641-7270 or check http://themarco-players.com for more information.

21 Sunday4:00 PM. Hansel & Gretel: A Family Musical Show. Adapted from the opera by Englebert Humperdinck, the show is performed in English with colorful sets and costumes, accompanied by a chamber orchestra. Leading roles are sung by professional opera singers, and the children’s chorus and ballet are members of the Bonita Center for the Arts Performing Arts program. Bring the whole family to enjoy this charm-ing fairy tale! Kids tickets are $12, and adult tickets are $20 or $30. Call 239-529-3925 or visit www.gulfshoreopera.org to learn more or purchase tickets now. Held at The Alliance for the Arts, 10091 McGregor Boulevard just south of Colonial Boulevard, Fort Myers.

22 MondayCall for time. Temple Shalom Preschool Winter Camp Opens. Open to children ages 2-6. Children can play with friends, sing, cook and enjoy science and arts and crafts. For more information or to participate, call Seyla Cohen, Preschool Director, at 239-455-3227. Camp held December 22 through January 2.

8:00 AM. Holiday Camp at Impact Martial Arts Opens. Cost is only $30 per day ($50 for 2 children). Kids should wear comfortable clothes they can be active in, and bring a healthy lunch and snacks, plus a book or two for reading time. Impact Martial Arts Naples, 5926 Premier Way, Unit 128, Naples. Call (239) 596-1633 for registration information. Camp runs Dec 22-24, 26, 29-31; Jan 5-6.

9:00 AM. Holiday Camp at My Gym Begins. Safe, fun activities while school is out. Members $35/day nonmembers $45/day. $10 discount for siblings. Located at 13020 Livingston Road #17, Naples. Call (239) 431-6499 for more information.

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 caregiv-ers can share songs, play instruments and learn rhythm patterns. Registration is required. Held at 21100 Three Oaks Pkwy, Estero. Call 239- 479-4636 for more information.

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. Sensory night is intended for all individuals with sensory integration needs including people with autism. Located at 15080 Livingston Road, Naples. Call 239-260-1711 or check www.cmon.org for more information.

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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.

December 2014.indd 37 11/18/14 12:31 PM


23 Tuesday10:00 AM. Crafter’s Choice at Headquarters Library. Stop by and choose some crafts to make. Open to all ages. Registration is not re-quired. Located at 2385 Orange Blossom Drive, Naples. Call 239-593-0870 or check http://public.collier-lib.org for more information.

11:00 AM. LEGO Builder’s Club at South County Regional Library. Precision manufac-turing, geometry and color make LEGO bricks a fun and creative activity for everyone. Put your brain to work and make creations with fellow enthusiasts. A STEM program sponsored by the Friends of South County Regional Library, Inc. Located at 21100 Three Oaks Pkwy, Estero. Call 239-479-4636 for additional information.

3:30 PM. Family Paint Session at Vino’s Pi-casso. Bring the whole family to Vino’s Picasso Naples for a special coconut paint session. Open to ages 7+. $25 includes all supplies. Register online at www.vinospicassonaples.com or by calling the studio at 239-431-8750. Located at 2367 Vanderbilt Beach Rd., Naples.

24 Wednesday9:00 AM. Holidays Without Hunger. This is a food-packaging event that aims to package 500,000 meals in just two hours. Meals of Hope Inc. is a nonprofit organization that packages

highly-nutritious, fortified meals for hungry families in Southwest Florida. All ages are wel-come to attend this fun, festive event and join Meals of Hope in giving the gift of hope to end hunger this holiday season. All 500,000 meals packaged during Holidays Without Hunger will be distributed by Harry Chapin Food Bank to over 160 agencies that directly serve families. Register and find out more at www.Holiday-sWithoutHunger.org. Event held at Harborside Event Center, 1375 Monroe Street, Fort Myers.

2:00 PM. Christmas Eve Shopping Sprint. Join us for your last chance to visit Santa and Mrs. Claus, enjoy a festive snow show and holiday carolers. Shop for Christmas gifts while enjoying complimentary photos with Santa, stories with Mrs. Claus and great waterfront din-ing. Held at Venetian Village, 4200 Gulf Shore Blvd., Naples. Check http://venetianvillage.com for more information.

28 Sunday2:00 PM. Free Concerts at the Bandshell. Bring chair or blanket for seating. For more information, call 239-213-3058. Located in Cambier Park at 755 Eighth Avenue South, Naples.

29 Monday3:00 PM. Moscow Ballet’s The Nutcracker. Celebrate the beloved Christmas tradition with the whole family as forty world-class Russian art-ists bring this charming classic to life. Experience Tchaikovsky’s master score this Christmas with the magic of larger than-life-puppets, growing Christmas tree and life-sized Matrushka dolls. Second show at 7:00 p.m. Held at Barbara B. Mann Performing Arts Hall, 13350 Edison Parkway, Fort Myers. Call 239-481-4849 or check www.bbmannpah.com for information.

31 Wednesday1:00 PM. Fort Myers Beach New Year’s Eve Celebration. Watch the ball drop at Times Square on Fort Myers Beach. The town’s birthday party takes place from 1 to 3 p.m. with live music, brownies, and cupcakes. More music kicks in at 7 p.m. to start the New Year’s celebration, which culminates with fireworks from the pier as well as the ball drop. Check /www.visitfortmyersbeach.com for information.

7:30 PM. New Year’s Eve Fireworks at the Pier. The fireworks are ignited from the Pier which means your best vantage points will be on the beach just north and south of the Pier. Held at the Naples Pier, 25 12th Avenue, Naples, call (239) 213-3062 for more information.

December 2014.indd 38 11/18/14 12:31 PM


HOLIDAYS By Malia Jacobson

Parenthood gives the term “generosity” a whole new meaning, especially around the holidays. As parents, we enjoy giving to our children (even when it involves building a three-level

dollhouse with a working elevator at 12:47 a.m. on December 25). But our children may not always receive gifts with grace, or give with a generous spirit. Here’s an age-by-age guide to raising kids who give from the heart.

Preschool years 2-5Gift wrap. Don’t expect toddlers and preschoolers to enjoy the annual ritual of shopping for and giving gifts to others, says parent educator and mom of five Vicki Hoefle, author of Duct Tape Parenting. With a still-under-construction sense of empathy, young children simply don’t yet understand the joy of giving, because they can’t conceptual-ize others’ feelings.

Adults can help tots learn to enjoy giving gifts as much as they enjoy receiving them, though. “If young children watch important adults in their lives give gifts with joy, over time they will begin to model this behavior,” says Hoefle. And don’t reprimand a young child who tries to help you open a gift from him. Including the child in the gift-opening experiencing allows him to experience the joy of giving with

an important adult in his life. Eventu-

ally, he’ll begin

to understand the sincere joy of giving a meaningful gift to someone he cares about.

Elementary years 6-12Give and take. As school-age kids become more aware of and interested in material possessions, parents can take steps to prevent an avalanche of “I want!” from burying the entire season. When kids start dream-ing up their own most-wanted gift list, promote a balanced sense of give-and-take by asking kids to write down what they plan to give to others, enlisting siblings in “secret” missions to uncover a brother or sister’s toy wishes, and asking kids to help plan a homemade holiday gift to give to neighbors and teachers.

As school friendships blossom, holiday gifting can stir up hurt feelings (who hasn’t experienced the embarrassment of a one-sided gift exchange?). If a child gives a gift to a friend but doesn’t receive one in return, embrace the teachable moment, says Greensboro, North Carolina parent coach Auria Chamberlain, LCSW. “Begin with an open dialogue with the child, and acknowledge feelings of being upset. Help your child remember the joy she gets from the friendship, and remind her that a present isn’t given with an expectation of getting one back.”

Teen years 13-18Giving spirit. Teens can and should take responsibility for planning and buying gifts with their own money, says Hoefle. In fact, doing so is central to becoming mature, thoughtful givers. Paying for the gifts teens give others, micromanaging what they buy, or simply writing their name on a present they had no part in picking out undermines their investment—and enjoyment—in the holiday season.

Volunteering with teens is a fun, meaningful way to shift the holiday spotlight off gifts and onto helping others. A teen can helm an “adopt a family” project at home, school, or church, or help bake cookies or sort clothes and toys to donate to a local shelter. Teens can plan a day to prepare holiday cards and care packages for overseas military or less-fortunate members of their local community, says Chaimberlain. “Giving to charity weaves a deeper meaning into the holidays, and helps kids appreciate all they’ve been given, whether the gifts are big or small.”

MALIA JACOBSON is a nationally published journalist and mom of three. Her latest book is Sleep Tight, Every Night: Helping Toddlers and Preschoolers Sleep Well Without Tears, Tricks, or Tirades.

Enjoy the Present

Help Kids Give with Joy

December 2014.indd 39 11/18/14 12:31 PM


HOLIDAYS By Stacy Nicolau

Naples mom Tracey Albert has always brought along her sons Bryce and Grayson to volunteer

at St. Matthews House and Meals on Wheels, and to serve Christmas dinners at a homeless shelter in Immokalee. It was not until her family was busy making food packets at Temple Shalom in conjunc-tion with a Kids Against Hunger event five years ago that she decided to educate herself about the challenges that families in her own community might face in ad-dition to food insecurity.

Albert called Jewish Family and Community Services (JFCS) where she learned how the agency serves its clients, regardless of religious affiliation, through their food pantry, counseling and referral services. Albert asked if she could deliver some baskets of gifts for families that JFCS served during the holidays. She was given a list and, together with a group of her friends from Temple Shalom, produced many festive gift baskets for several ap-preciative families.

Since then, Albert has organized an annual holiday gift drive. She matches teams of volunteers with more than 40 families, seniors and single people from a list provided by JFCS. The volunteers buy gift cards and wrap beautiful gifts for those who would otherwise do without. “This project doesn’t solve their financial problems,” Albert notes. “My hope is that it lets them know that they are not alone at the holidays.”

FOR EVERYONE

A BRIGHTER Holiday Season

December 2014.indd 40 11/18/14 12:32 PM


People who would like to request assistance or who are able to help brighten someone else’s holiday can contact one of the following organizations.

Bikes for Tykes (239) 450-3366 • www.bikesfortykes.org

A shiny new bike will make any child smile. Bikes for Tykes accepts used bicycles, bicycle parts, helmets in good condition, and new bicycles and helmets. The used bicycles and bicycle parts are used to refurbish the bicycles. A $50 donation provides a child in need with a bike and $10 provides a child with a new helmet.

Home Instead Senior Care: “Be a Santa for a Senior” Program(239) 226-0007 • www.beasantatoasenior.com

Home Instead Senior Care partners with local non-profit and commu-nity organizations to identify seniors who might not otherwise receive gifts the holiday season. The company then works with local businesses and retail stores to help facilitate the purchase and distribution of gifts by placing trees and ornaments within their various locations. Each senior’s gift requests are written on a tree ornament. Volunteers can recommend a lonely senior to be a recipient, wrap presents and deliver gifts, or provide a gift or monetary donation. There are more than 20 locations in Naples with these trees, including Moe’s Southwest Grill, Naples Flatbread, Mel’s Diner, Royal Scoop and Starbucks. Go to link and enter your zip code to find all of the locations near you.

Jewish Family and Community Services (JFCS)(239) 325-4444 • www.jfcsswfl.org

A nonsectarian agency, JFCS distributes donated gifts to people regard-less of what holiday they celebrate in December. For more information on adopting a family for the holidays, call Dr. Jaclynn Faffer at JFCS.

Legal Aid Service of Collier County Adopt-a-Family Program(239) 775-4555

www.legalaid.org/collier/adopt-a-family-programLegal Aid Service of Collier County, in collaboration with the Collier County Bar Association, pairs needy families with children served by Legal Aid with donors willing to furnish toys, clothes and other gifts each holiday season. Since 2007, more than 1,000 needy children have received toys and other items written on their wish lists. Many donors also provide gift cards to cover the cost of a holiday meal for the family.

Northside Naples Kiwanis Clubwww.northsidenapleskiwanis.com/majorprojects.phtml

Each year on Christmas Day the Northside Naples Kiwanis Club sends volunteers to Immokalee to provide a Christmas meal for more than 3,500 people, distribute much-needed blankets, and bring in Santa Claus to distribute gifts and toys to hundreds of children.

Salvation Army/Toys For TotsVolunteers/Donations (239)210-4009

Bell Ringers (239) 775-9447www.salvationarmyflorida.org/naples/programs-

services/christmas-cheerVolunteers sort toys for each child adopted at angel trees hosted by area organizations and businesses and prepare them for holiday distribution to Collier County families in need. Select a child off of an angel tree at any Salvation Army location. Families in need of assistance can apply online by December 6 at www.napleschristmascheer.com.

December 2014.indd 41 11/18/14 3:52 PM


HOLIDAYS By Beth N. Davis

A Clutter-Free Holiday

Gift GuideIf your children’s toys are already creeping into every room of the house, the idea of more toys coming through the door during the holiday season might be enough to make you break out in hives. Your friends and family love your children. They want to dote on them and treat them to fun things during the holiday season. But you can’t fathom where you are going to keep it all.

Help yourself and your generous family members by suggesting some of these fun, non-toy gift ideas for the kids in your family. The better you, and they, know the interests of a gift recipient, the better chance you will have of making sure your gift doesn’t wind up unused in a pile somewhere.

ExperiencesWhen you think back on holidays past, the best memories aren’t about what you received as gifts but the time and unique experiences you had with the ones you care about. Harness that energy for your children and the ones on your list by gifting an experience they won’t forget. Whether it is a dinner out, an afternoon making cookies or building a bird house together, experiences are one way to reduce the accumulation during the holidays.

Other great experience gifts:• Movie Tickets • An afternoon of bowling• Tickets to a theater performance • An outing to a sporting event• A day at the circus • Ice Skating• Mini Golf • Concert tickets

On a similar note, you can gift an experience that can be re-lived by gifting season passes to a fun attraction like the Naples Zoo, The Conservancy or Rookery Bay. If the child in your life has an affinity for one of these locations, season passes will be a welcome gift.

December 2014.indd 42 11/18/14 12:32 PM


Classes/LessonsMost kids are involved in after school activities but lessons can get costly. If a child in your life in interested in a particular topic, there is likely a class or series of lessons that they can be enrolled in. For this type of gift, if you are giving to a child other than your own, be sure to consult the parent for scheduling reasons. Your own children will be thrilled to attend an intensive workshop or spend one on one time with a favorite instructor.

Some lessons and classes that are popular with many kids:• Swimming • Sports (Clinics, lessons)• Gymnastics • Dance• Karate • Music lessons• Pottery or other art class • Craft class• Horseback riding lessons • Adventurous Outings

For the older child (and even for adults), an adventurous outing might be the most exciting gift they receive. Whether you take a whitewater rafting trip or spend a day climbing trees, fun and adrenaline are both at play with these gifts.

Examples of these types of outings are:• Hot air balloon ride • Zip lining• Skiing or tubing • Rock Climbing• Camping • Road trip

Useful GiftsWhile kids thrive on the fun, there are many es-sentials that, when purchased as a gift can be just

as exciting. The promise of a redecorated bedroom, for ex-ample, can be the most exciting thing a teenage girl receives.

Some examples of useful, fun gifts are: • Kid furniture • New bedding

• Bike • Scooter • Roller skates/blades • Basketball hoop

• Trampoline • A swing set • Jewelry box

Learning ToolsWho says learning isn’t fun? For the budding scien-

tist in your life, a chemistry set will be more useful than any toy or game that will wind up as clutter in a corner.

Some great examples of learning tools as gifts are: • A telescope • Strong Magnet • Science Kit • Gardening tools• Chalk or whiteboards • Bug-catching tools• Binoculars • Globe

Gift cards, books and other standard non-toy gifts are also appropriate for the family that is looking to de-clutter. Whether you are looking to be respectful to a minimalist family you know or are trying to keep from adding to the clutter in your own home, these gift ideas will have you ringing in a neat New Year.

BETH N. DAVIS writes from Silver Spring, MD where she and her husband are raising their four children.

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December 2014.indd 43 11/18/14 12:32 PM


HOLIDAYS

Lighting Up Your HolidayWe won’t have snow to get us into a holiday mood but Naples is no stranger to awesome

holiday lighting displays! There are several neighborhoods that are perfect for a slow drive. You’ll also find beautiful displays at a few of our shopping areas.

Make a thermos of hot chocolate, grab a handful of candy canes, buckle in the kids and head off for an enchanted evening of holiday fun.

LIGHTS, CAMERA, ACTION!EVENTS AND

NEIGHBORHOODS WHERE THE LIGHTING

DISPLAYS ARE THE STAR OF THE SHOW.

LOVE PHOTOGRAPHY? Peggy Farren of Understand Photography will be leading a free Photowalk in Victoria Park on Dec. 14 at 6:30 p.m. Sign up for the Meetup group to join in on the fun at: http://www.meetup.com/UnderstandPhotography/

December 2014.indd 44 11/18/14 12:33 PM


NEIGHBORHOODS

Boca Palms. Located right across Airport Road from Victoria Park, Boca Palms is usu-ally almost as brightly lit as Victoria Park.

Palm River. Located off of Immokalee Road between Airport and Goodlette, Palm River is usually nicely lit with a few houses that go all out.

Pelican Bay. Many of the ungated neighbor-hoods of Pelican Bay are brightly decorated for Christmas. Enter at Pelican Bay Blvd. and meander around. The association decorations are especially pretty and make really good photo backdrops.

Port Royal. This very upscale neighborhood off Gordon Drive in south Naples offers brightly lit, beautifully decorated large homes and mansions.

Victoria Park. Located in North Naples off Airport Road (about 1 mile south of Immo-kalee), Victoria Park has some of the most over-the-top holiday lights displays. The big-gest displays are usually on a the side streets. You’ll also find that many of the streets have matching decorations (arches, tree, candy canes) lighting the way.

Victoria Park has a luminaria display on Christmas Eve that attracts thousands. Be pre-pared for a VERY slow drive and huge crowds.

Willoughby Acres. Another North Naples neighborhood, Willoughby Acres is located off Immokalee just north of Palm River. In previous years almost all houses have been lit.

ON THE WATER

Bonita Springs Boat ParadeThe Bonita Springs Holiday Boat Parade is December 13 at approximately 5:00 p.m.

This year we’re returning to the original parade route, which starts at Big Hickory Fish Nook Restaurant and travels up the river to Holly Lane, ending at The Fish House Restaurant on Bonita Beach Road. For more information call (239) 495-0455 or check www.bonitaboatparade.com.

Cape Coral Holiday Boat AlongThe focal point of this event on December 20 at 4:00 p.m. is a parade of approximately 100 boats decorated in a festive holiday fashion with lights, costumes, elves and whatever else their captains can think of. At Four Freedoms Park, the landlubbers watch the boats gather in the Bimini Basin before they begin me-andering through the canals of south Cape Coral. The park features holiday music, a visit from Santa, and food and beverages for sale. For more information call (239) 549-0558.

Captiva Lighted Boat ParadeAs part of the Captiva Holiday Village festivi-ties, the Captiva Lighted Boat Parade will start at 6:00 p.m. on December 13 just outside Roosevelt Channel, Marker #2. Captiva Cruises will be offering passenger tickets for those without a boat to cruise in the parade and want to be part of the fun. Public viewing of the parade from land is available at The Green Flash Waterfront Restaurant, ‘Tween Waters Inn, Jensen’s Marina, and McCarthy’s Marina. For more information check www.captivaholidayvillage.com.

2014 Christmas Boat ParadeThe December 13 parade may be viewed from restuarants along the Naples City Dock. The event begins at 6:15 p.m.

Village on Venetian Bay Boat Parade This Village tradition will be held on Thurs-day, December 6 from 6:30 to 8 p.m. A twinkling procession of boats will make its

way down Venetian Bay. Enjoy live holiday entertainment, face painting, a magician, holiday carolers, stories with Mrs. Claus and a special appearance by Santa Claus. For more information check www.venetianvillage.com.

COMMERCIAL LIGHTING DISPLAYS

39th Annual Christmas Walk and Tree Lighting CeremonyThis annual tradition on Fifth Avenue South features local choral groups, dance troupes, and school and church choirs on December 4 from 5:00 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. Check www.fifthavenuesouth.com for information.

Celebration of LightsOn December 5, school and church group carolers and Santa Claus visit Annunciation Circle in Ave Maria to celebrate the holiday season. The evening also features Christmas lights, refreshments and train rides for the kids. Call (239) 262-2600 for more infor-mation.

Edison & Ford Holiday NightsThe historic buildings and acres of gardens at Edison Ford are decorated with lights and traditional holiday decorations, and live music is performed nightly. Holiday Nights runs through Jan. 4 (closed December 24). Spe-cial events including Santa visits, Clydesdale wagon rides, and a holiday cottage shop are scheduled. Check the website at www.edison-fordwinterestates.org for event information.

Night Lights 2014 Holiday Celebrations at Naples Botanical Gardens Naples Botanical Gardens turns into a beauti-ful holiday wonderland from December 17 through January 4. Your family will enjoy live musical performances, family activities, and thousands of lights throughout the Garden every night. Call (239) 643-7275 for ticket information.

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December 2014 Neapolitan Family

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