SWFL Parent & Child - December 2018 by SWFL Parent & Child Magazine

S W F L PA R E N T C H I L D. C O M

DECEMBER 2018

Healthy Children Healthy Families Let Our Family Take Care of Your Family

Newborn care – Lactation Services Well child checkups Appointments available 7 days a week Same day “sick” appointments Vaccinations Teen wellness Reach Out and Read participant

www.ppcswfl.com | 239.275.5522

Color the PPC Pals, then bring them into your doctor’s office where we will display them, or use to decorate in your own home.

Physician-Owned. Patient-Centered

www.ppcswfl.com | 239.275.5522 SOUTHWEST FLORIDA PARENT & CHILD » DECEMBER 2018 » 3

• Over 90 stores, restaurants and services • Family friendly events monthly, watch website fro updates • Children’s Play Area at Market Plaza • Conveniently located on I-75 and Alico Road, exit 128

9903 GULF COAST MAIN STREET, FORT MYERS, FL 33913 (239) 267-5107 | www.GulfCoastTownCenter.com

4 » DECEMBER 2018 » SWFLPARENTCHILD.COM

contents »

swfl

parent&child

Features

In Every Issue

31 digging into teen angst

Marco novelist empowers teens to find their inner uniqueness

Local TV show that helps kids cope with hardship finds success on CTN

35 little actor, big talent

17 ask the expert

Gift ideas every teen will cherish

44 safety corner How to safely host a teen party

20 in the kitchen

48 travel

One recipe, hundreds of cookie options

Explore some of our favorite events of the season in this list of highlights.

Got snow? Try Jackson Hole

23 dining out

On the cover

57 voices

Mom’s Restaurant in Cape Coral and Fort Myers Beach

Jaiden Marino, 3, is the son of Emma and Jon Marino, of Cape Coral.

PHOTO BY AMANDA INSCORE

29 teens

How too many college credits can hurt financially

The greatest gift

37 holiday highlights

.COM

Holiday traditions only a Florida kid can know

19 single parenting

Ashton Heathcoat talks about landing a role on “I Am Frankie”

ENTCHILD

26 kid stuff

You don’t hear this often enough

33 chicklets go national

S W F L PA R

a mother’s view

You’ll never believe what this teen did

25 youth sports DECEMBE

58 a father’s view

Five ways to thank your child’s coach

R 2018

Today’s music ain’t got the same soul

Other Departments 7 8 11 13

editor’s note online me time 5 things

14 45 52 53

fyi family album around town calendar

SOUTHWEST FLORIDA PARENT & CHILD » DECEMBER 2018 » 5

Help Your Child Learn AN EYE ON THE FUTURE Make an appointment today. Your future suddenly became a whole lot clearer. A child’s learning disabilities can be caused by vision related problems, even if the child has 20/20 vision. Visit EyeDocks.com to watch a video about Vision Therapy.

Eye Care Services

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6 » DECEMBER 2018 » SWFLPARENTCHILD.COM

editor's note »

parent &child

swfl

S W F L PA R E N T C H I L D. C O M

Part of the USA TODAY Network

2442 Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd. Fort Myers, FL 33901 swflparentchild.com President & Publisher William R. Barker General Manager Kathryn Robinson Kinsey kathryn@swflparentchild.com Editor Pamela Smith Hayford (239) 335-0448 pamela@swflparentchild.com Art Director Lindi Daywalt-Feazel

Editorial Contributors Deborah Comella, Echo Copeland, Jim Dwyer, Alexandra Evans, Kira Lewis, Ann M. O’Phelan, Janis B. Meredith, Shelby Reynolds, Amanda Sterk, Andrea Stetson, Jennifer Thomas Photographer Amanda Inscore Vice President/Advertising Sales Nancy M. Solliday Specialty Publications Team Coordinator Dennis Wright dennis@swflparentchild.com Advertising Account Executive Nicole Holey (239) 281-6455 nholey@fortmyer.gannett.com

Distribution (239) 335-0211 Southwest Florida Parent & Child is a FREE publication distributed at more than 500 locations throughout Southwest Florida by The News-Press Media Group. All rights reserved. We make every effort to ensure the accuracy of the information published but cannot be held responsible for any consequences arising from omissions or errors. Any opinions expressed by writers and advertisers are not necessarily opinions of the magazine or publisher.

Where’s the panic button? Holiday overwhelm is setting in. It’s typical of me this time of year. I create grand plans in my head: dozens of holiday events I want the kids to experience, perfectly curated lists of gifts to buy, menus to make visitors swoon, cookies to bake, lights to see, memories to make. Are you hyperventilating with me yet? In the wise words of Kimberly Wilkins, “Ain’t nobody got time for that.” Seriously, let’s all breathe together. In. Out. In. Out. What are the Top 5 things we want to do this holiday? Put ’em on your calendar. That’s my plan, anyway, and it usually makes me feel better. Get the kids’ and S.O.’s input when you’re planning; you might find out that event you wanted them to experience is a chore to them and they’d rather stay home and watch holiday specials snuggled on the couch with you. To help you out, we’ve got a nice list of top holiday events in Southwest Florida, starting on page 37. Bring it and some markers to the dinner table and let everyone circle what they want. The ones with the most circles deliver your Top 5. There are other ways to make the most of your time, too. Like those cookies. Food writer Shelby Reynolds has an idea to save you some time. It’s a sugar cookie recipe that can be used in countless ways to make numerous treats that look very different from one another, like bite-size frosted nuggets or snowmen melting in icing. Take some time to enjoy a couple of good — and quick — reads about kids doing good in our community. One young man is the second child in our area to land a role on Nickelodeon’s “I Am Frankie,” page 35. Then there’s the Chicklet Club, a group of kids learning how to deal with the hardships in their lives by producing a television show that just got the OK to go national, page 33. Parents of college-bound teenagers would do well to read up on advice from higher education guru Amanda Sterk about a little-known caveat that could trip up students who have too much school credit, page 17. Most of all, relax. Enjoy each moment of the season. If you’re ringing bells for the Salvation Army with your kids, savor it. If you’re running around from dance show to band night, enjoy the shows. If you don’t get everything on your wish list done, don’t worry about it. At least you did what was most important to you. And there’s always next year. PHOTO BY BRIAN TIETZ

Volume 19, Issue 12 Dedicated to serving the families of Lee and Collier counties

Member of

Pamela Smith Hayford, Editor Contact us: We enjoy hearing from you. Send your photos, letters or comments to: pamela@swflparentchild.com. Or visit us online:

swflparentchild.com

SOUTHWEST FLORIDA PARENT & CHILD » DECEMBER 2018 » 7

» online

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Get the latest event information and family news every day at swflparentchild.com.

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More holiday fun!

Our calendar pages are chock-full of holiday fun, it’s true. But there’s more. Much more. Go to our website and look for our online calendar for the latest and greatest. Just look under the Things to Do heading and click on Events.

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No Passport Required. You’ll discover more than just stunning plants and landscapes on this 170-acre property. With lush, tropical cultivated gardens and native preserve inspired by plants and cultures from around the globe between the 26th latitude north and 26th latitude south, Naples Botanical Garden is a truly unique destination. Nine Cultivated Gardens | Nature Preserve Walking Trails | Smith Children’s Garden Splash Fountain & Butterfly House Chabraja Visitor Center Berger Shop in the Garden | Fogg Café

4820 Bayshore Drive / 239.643.7275

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Kira Lewis of Cape Coral is mom to two children, a writer and founder of calmandchaosmama.com and sunshineandhurricanes.com.

a mother’s view »

K IR A LE WIS

My gift to you

oms, it’s the holiday season, so while you’re so busy buying and wrapping gifts for everyone else, don’t forget about you. But what you probably want to receive more than anything are not gifts that come bundled in pretty paper and tied up with bows, but words. Words of recognition, words of encouragement and words of support. Words that too often you don’t hear. Being a mom often means that so much of what you do on a daily basis goes under appreciated and unacknowledged. Yes, you knew what you were signing up for when you took the job, and of course, you are rewarded in many other ways. However, sometimes it would be nice to get that verbal reassurance that what you’re doing matters. So, let this be my gift to you this holiday season. Here is what I want you to know and take to heart.

You are a good mom No, you are not a perfect mom, but that is not what your children require. And while you most likely focus on those times you fall short, your children will remember the rest. Your warm hugs, welcoming lap and soft kisses. The countless bedtime stories read and nights you stayed by their side to fight off imaginary

monsters or fevers that raged. All the practices you drove them to and games and recitals and concerts you watched. The homework you helped them through and the years upon years of school projects you made sure got turned in on time. The holidays and birthdays you always made special. Family trips you planned and traditions you started. Tears you dried, boo-boos you kissed and hearts you mended over and over again. You were there, and you loved them with all that you are, and that makes you a good mom.

You are raising good people You can’t help but wonder if you’re raising them right. You watch them struggle and see their challenges and faults so clearly. You worry if they will grow up to be not only capable, but kind and caring, too. But if these are your worries, let me promise you that without a doubt you are raising good people. The very fact that you are aware of the importance of bringing up children who treat others well sets your child up for success. And we’ve already established that you are a good mom. The kind of mom who models self-sacrifice and compassion and love. If this is what they see and experience

every day in their lives, over time it will shape their character and define their values. They will not be perfect, but that is not what you require of them. You’ve shown them grace and by your example they will give it to others in return.

You are not alone It’s so easy to think you are the only mom who doubts herself or her children. But I promise you that you do not shoulder this burden by yourself. Look around at the other moms you know and interact with every day. They, like you, question all the time if they are worthy, if they do enough, if their kids will be OK. It doesn’t matter what they look like on the outside, or what they post on social media. Inside and offline, they are just like you. Now the beauty of this gift I give to you is that it is one easily passed forward. Next time you are at the store and a frazzled mom is trying hard to wrangle her screaming kids, give her a smile of reassurance and tell her, “You are a good mom.” When you see another mom’s children on their best behavior or being kind to others, make the extra effort to let her know, “You are raising good people.” Or when another mom confides in you that she is overwhelmed, take her hand and say, “Me too. You are not alone.”

SOUTHWEST FLORIDA PARENT & CHILD » DECEMBER 2018 » 9

Infant Care 6 weeks through Preschool • After School program Kindergarten through 5th Grade

Love & Learning:

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25151 Bernwood Dr Bonita Springs Lic# C2OLE0122

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10 » DECEMBER 2018 » SWFLPARENTCHILD.COM

me time »

Glitz&glam Put a ring on it A little bling is just the thing to help a mom feel glamorous. This Brilliance Twist multi-band ring with Swarovski crystals feels radiant. And you won’t have to sell your first born for it. Kohl’s lists the original price as $50; we found it on sale for $19.99 at kohls.com.

Catch the light

DATE

NIGHT

First, leave the mom bag at home. This sexy little number adds the glitz to your glam with its sparkling ombré embellishments. I.N.C. Ombre Sparkle evening clutch, $79.50 at Macy’s.

‘Tis the season for parties and New Year’s Eve festivities. Embellish your little black dress with these finishing touches for a fully glamorous, and definitely grown-up, night out.

Perfect your pout Seal the night with an irresistible kiss as you create that perfect pout with this coordinating lip pencil, color and gloss by Laura Mercier. The Lip Lights deluxe mini lip collection is $35 at lauramercier.com.

Kick up your heels These metallic leather pumps are begging for a spin at a fine holiday soiree. And the Olivia heel from White House Black Market features a memory foam footbed to keep your step light. $130 at whitehouseblackmarket.com.

Fifth Avenue South sparkles in holiday splendor. Treat yourselves to the fine dining of Sails Restaurant, where the owners strive for utmost excellence — and yet make everyone feel at home, from sophisticated cocktails and impeccable service to $6 Bar Bites and happy hour specials. After dinner, stroll through downtown Naples for a romantic moment under the lights. Then top off the night with “Irving Berlin’s White Christmas” by The Naples Players at the Sugden Community Theatre.

SOUTHWEST FLORIDA PARENT & CHILD » DECEMBER 2018 » 11

MIROMAR OUTLETS

DECEMBER EVENTS

ROCK CLIMBING FUNWALLS NOW OPEN Packages available for birthday parties, corporate team building events, fundraisers, school field trips, and more! Pick up a Frequent Climber Card and receive the 11th climb on us. Party packages available at MiromarOutlets.com/play or call (239) 948-3766

ENDLESS TRAILS HOLIDAY MINI HORSES Saturday, December 8 12 to 2 p.m. Keep an eye out for holiday mini horses roaming the mall handing out candy canes to everyone on Santa’s Nice List. THE 12 DAYS OF CHRISTMAS Monday, December 10 thru Friday, December 21 Holiday-themed social media contest. Prizes given away daily. Visit MiromarOutlets.com for more information.

AMAZING THINGS 5-D MOTION THEATER Suite 323, (239) 262-9464 Our new 5-D Motion Theater puts you in the action with a full sensory experience! Party packages available FRIDAY NIGHT at MiromarOutlets.com/play or call CONCERT SERIES (239) 948-3766 Friday, December 14 6 to 9 p.m. in the LIVE ENTERTAINMENT Restaurant Piazza Saturdays from 1 to 7 p.m. & Enjoy the sounds of The Sundays from 2 to 5 p.m. Free live entertainment throughout Collaboration Band. the mall with a variety of FAMILY YOGA WITH KATHRYN performers and music styles. Visit Saturday, December 15 MiromarOutlets.com for information. 10 a.m. in PLAYLAND A FREE 45-minute beginners’ yoga CAR CRUISE-IN class, for families with toddlers to Sunday, December 2 tweens. Bring your own mat. 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. near PLAYLAND See all your favorite makes and models of classic and custom cars.

mainstreetsmiles.com Ft. Myers Cape Coral Naples

CHRISTMAS COOKIE DECORATING Saturday, December 8 12 to 2 p.m. near PLAYLAND Kids can stop by the WARO-FM 94.5 cookie decorating station for a holiday treat they make and eat!

GIFT CARDS MAKE THE PERFECT

MOMS APPRECIATION DAY Wednesday, December 19 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. in PLAYLAND Moms receive a coupon for a free drink and treat from le macaron french pastries while their children have fun at FREE Kids Crafts.

KIDS DAY Saturday, December 30 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. PLAYLAND in Toddlers to 12-year-olds participate in fun activities and receive a free slice of pizza from Luna Pizza, a free kids’ cone from Dairy Queen/Orange Julius and a special offer at Mr. Pretzels (while supplies last).

HolidayGift

SAVE UP TO 70% OFF RETAIL PRICES! Over 140 Top Designer and Brand Name Outlets 1218-2309

(239) 948-3766 • MiromarOutlets.com • Mon.-Sat.: 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. • Sun.: 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. I-75, Exit 123, Corkscrew Road, in Estero, between Naples & Fort Myers

12 » DECEMBER 2018 » SWFLPARENTCHILD.COM

00 New Patient Exam Oral Exam (0150), X-rays (0272) Cleaning (1120), Fluoride (1208)

650 OFF 00

Braces for New Patients

*DOES NOT APPLY TO DOWN PAYMENT, CANNOT BE USED IN CONJUNCTION WITH INSURANCE. THE PATIENT OR ANY OTHER PERSON RESPONSIBLE FOR PAYMENT HAS A RIGHT TO REFUSE TO PAY, CANCEL PAYMENT, OR BE REIMBURSED FOR PAYMENT FOR ANY OTHER SERVICE, EXAMINATION, OR TREATMENT THAT IS PERFORMED A RESULT OF AND WITHIN 72 HOURS OF RESPONDING TO THE ADVERTISEMENT FOR THE FREE, DISCOUNTED FEE, OR REDUCED FEE SERVICE, EXAMINATION OR TREATMENT. DR. GALLO LIC.# DN20050, LIC.# DN12135. EXPIRES 12/31/18. MAIN STREET CHILDREN’S DENTISTRY & ORTHODONTICS COMPLIES WITH APPLICABLE FEDERAL CIVIL RIGHTS LAWS AND DOES NOT DISCRIMINATE ON THE BASIS OF RACE, COLOR, NATIONAL ORIGIN, AGE, DISABILITY, OR SEX. ATENCIÓN: SI HABLA ESPAÑOL, TIENE A SU DISPOSICIÓN SERVICIOS GRATUITOS DE ASISTENCIA LINGÜÍSTICA. LLAME AL 1-(888-764-5399) OFFICE NUMBER OR REGIONAL NUMBER (TTY: 1-(888-764-5399) OFFICE NUMBER OR REGIONAL NUMBER). ATANSYON: SI W PALE KREYÒL AYISYEN, GEN SÈVIS ÈD POU LANG KI DISPONIB GRATIS POU OU. RELE 1-888-764-5399 (TTY: 1- (888-764-5399).

DOG DAZE AT MIROMAR Thursday, December 6 from 6 to 8 p.m. near PLAYLAND Enjoy pet-friendly specials and entertainment at participating stores PHOTOS WITH SANTA and restaurants the first Thursday of Thru Sunday, December 23 every month. In Suite 182 Make an everlasting memory SCIENCE SATURDAY and receive a photo with Saturday, December 8 Santa at Miromar Outlets. Visit 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. in MiromarOutlets.com for more PLAYLAND information. Join Mr. Glen and his Science & Engineering team for interactive science projects.

Braces Special

Children’s Special *

239.567.9480 239.443.5988 239.963.1135

5 things »

Small but

MIGHTY

Whether you’re looking for a stocking stuffer or a small gift to bestow a friend, these great finds are sure to impress.

Backpack buddies Clip one of these quirky characters to your bag for a surefire conversation starter. The String Doll Gang figures are made from cotton string and tiny accessories, and they’re crazy cute. Each has a special power. This is Jimmy the Jellyfish; he helps you watch your step. There’s also a mermaid, pink flamingo, dolphin and many more. $12.99 at the new Baily Matthews Shell Museum Shop in the Sanibel Outlets in south Fort Myers.

No mess, no stress The Water Wow! pad and pen use water to bring out the colors on the pages of this little pad. A perfect activity for on-thego entertainment. Each pad comes with four reusable scenes. Color, let dry, color again. $5.25 at Puddle Jumpers Children’s Resale in south Fort Myers.

Rock ’n’ roll ’n’ go This silicone instrument is super portable. Called the Rainbow Piano, it was adapted from the classic 2016 “Best Toys for Kids” winner from the American Specialty Retailing Association. It has 49 keys, a built-in speaker, record and playback functionality, multiple tones and demo songs. Just roll and go. $59.99 at Cheshire Cat Fine Toys in the Bell Tower Shops in south Fort Myers or at cheshirecatfinetoyshop.com.

Stache Your Slime For 11-year-old Sofie Ortiz, of Cape Coral, slime is more than a gob of goop. It has been a creative outlet and a way to deal with stress. Now, it’s her business: Stache Your Slime launched this fall. She makes numerous varieties — gourmet slime, if you will. One of her best sellers is Lavender Lampshade, a cloud slime with eucalyptus and spearmint for their calming properties. $6 at stacheyourslime.com and at a MOPS shopping event December 8 at the Cape Alliance Church. (Learn more about Sofie and her slime at swflparentchild.com.)

Light the dark The Firefly solar lantern lights up dark spaces with a beautiful glow at three brightness levels (blinking mode, too). The silicone body is practically indestructible, it’s waterproof, it can collapse to half its size, and you can stash stuff inside. Battery recharges via sun or USB (cable provided). $20 at the new Baily Matthews Shell Museum Shop in the Sanibel Outlets in south Fort Myers.

SOUTHWEST FLORIDA PARENT & CHILD » DECEMBER 2018 » 13

« fyi

Once Upon A Child to open in the Cape A big sign on Pine Island Road boasts that the consignment children’s shop Once Upon A Child is coming to Cape Coral, and their franchise’s website confirms it, its Facebook page is building interest, calls went out for hiring. An opening date wasn’t available when we chatted with store management in November, but we’re all hoping soon! The store is a favorite of local parents, partly because it pays on the spot for gently used children’s clothes. Joining existing stores in Fort Myers, Naples and Port Charlotte, the new store is at 1500 N.E. Pine Island Road, Cape Coral. Get the latest at onceuponachildcapecoral.com.

Be a biologist 13 Lee County kids to get this scholarship You don’t have to be talented in sports to get this baseball scholarship. The Boston Red Sox Foundation is accepting applications from academically talented Lee County high school students who have shown a commitment to community service. Scholarships of $5,000 will be awarded to a deserving student in each of the county’s 13 public high schools. Get details from your school’s guidance counselor, online at redsoxfoundation. org/fenway-south/flscholarship or by calling 617-226-6004. Applications are due December 31.

14 » DECEMBER 2018 » SWFLPARENTCHILD.COM

From tacking the invasive Burmese pythons to researching sea turtles and mangroves, the public gets to learn what it’s like to be a biologist in the new Be a Biologist program at the Conservancy of Southwest Florida in Naples. Other daily programs this season include Scales and Tails, Ocean Discoveries and Wonder of Wildlife. The programs are included with admission, which is $14.95 for adults, $9.95 for ages 3-12, free for ages 2 and younger and members. The Conservancy is open 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday-Saturday. It’s closed Sundays until January when it’s 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Sundays through April. Get details at conservancy.org.

Free document shredding Collier County’s Solid and Hazardous Waste Management Division offers free paper shredding on the first Saturday of each month to county residents. The first 20 pounds are free; additional shredding is $1 per pound. Shredding trucks will be on site 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the North Collier Recycling Drop-off Center, 9950 Goodlette-Frank Road N., Naples, and at the Naples Recycling Drop-off Center, 2640 Corporate Flight Drive, Naples. Secure, locked bins are at the Marco Island Recycling Drop-off Center, 990 Chalmer Drive, Marco Island, 8:30 to 11 a.m. and noon to 2 p.m.

After-school club delves into STEM Got a little engineer in your house who would love to spend their hours after school building stuff or coding or working with robotics? The Village School of Naples offers an after-school program with Mr. Glen and the Super Science team — and your child doesn’t have to be enrolled in the school to attend. Mondays are App, Code, Game & Chess Club. Tuesdays and Thursday are Robot Team & Robotics. Wednesdays are engineering. For details, email allison@ supersciencefl.com or text or call 407-466-0287.

HealthPark deemed 'BabyFriendly' HealthPark Medical Center received the “Baby-Friendly” designation from the international organization BabyFriendly USA for its birth facility and the support it gives new moms. Cape Coral Hospital and Gulf Coast Medical Center have also earned this title.

10 receive Golden Baby Shoe Awards The Healthy Start Coalition of Southwest Florida and the Golisano Children’s Hospital announced the winners of this year’s Golden Baby Shoe Awards, which honor people who improve the health and well-being of pregnant women or babies in Lee, Collier, Glades and Hendry counties. The Lifetime Achievement Award goes to Dr. Martin Sherman, retired from Associates in Pediatrics. Golden Baby Shoe Awards go to Tatiana Anaya, a licensed practical nurse at Hendry Regional Medical Center; Dr. Denise Drago, Lee Physician Group Pediatrics; Dr. Mylai Garofalo, Florida Community Health Centers; Kelly Linskey-Johnson, Lee Health, Healthy Start; Selena Lucas, registered nurse and assistant community health nursing director, Florida Department of Health Collier County; Dr. Amber Loyson, MacKoul Pediatrics; Dr. Anthony Pietroniro, Lee Physician Group Pediatrics; Giomar Veloz, public health nutrition supervisor for the Florida Department of Health, WIC Nutrition Program; Stephanie Vick, a registered nurse and administrator for the Florida Department of Health Collier County.

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

Three Locations To Serve You! BONITA SPRINGS

9510 Bonita Beach Rd. Ste. 101

239 333.2990

CAPE CORAL

PORT CHARLOTTE

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SOUTHWEST FLORIDA PARENT & CHILD » DECEMBER 2018 » 15

« fyi (continued) Children’s Resource Center opens on Fifth Avenue South The Nicklaus Children’s Hospital in Miami opened a resource center in downtown Naples this fall. The Nicklaus Children’s Resource Center at 659 Fifth Ave. S. showcases the hospital’s services, programs, technology and innovations.

Shopper shuttle available at Miromar Yeah, it’s a big place. This year, Miromar Outlets is offering a free shuttle service in time for the holidays, and it will continue through April. The shuttle continually circles the outlets, making nine stops at strategic locations, 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday-Saturday and 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sunday.

16 » DECEMBER 2018 » SWFLPARENTCHILD.COM

Volunteers needed Collier Child Care Resources is recruiting volunteers to help evaluate the organization’s 2019 Apple Blossom Award “Teacher of the Year” nominees. The group is looking for volunteers who have early childhood knowledge and can visit classrooms in February and early March. Anyone interested in being an evaluator may contact JoAnn Lawrence at joannl@collierchildcare.org, 239643-3908, or visit collierchildcare.org.

Fund helps women pursue career in health care The Women’s Legacy Fund of the Southwest Florida Community Foundation recently presented a check to the Career Pipeline for Women in Health Care, a program focused on enrolling women in underserved and underemployed communities in health science education programs at the two Lee County technical colleges, Fort Myers Technical College and Cape Coral Technical College. Get details at 239-274-5900 or floridacommunity.com.

Amanda Sterk is founder of UnMaze.Me, a high school resource blog, and director of dual enrollment at Florida SouthWestern State College in south Fort Myers. She has a doctorate in education.

ask the expert »

A M A NDA STER K

When extra credit hurts 1-in-4 college students pay double tuition due to state’s Excess Credit Law

arents and students throughout Florida worry about the rising costs of college tuition. While Florida is ranked nationally as having some of the cheapest college tuition in the nation, around $6,000 for four-year public institutions, families continue to hope that students can earn a multitude of scholarships to cover college costs. Whether students seek to earn the state’s Bright Futures award, institutional scholarships, local or national scholarships, what parents do not plan on is for a little-known Florida statute that allows colleges to charge double tuition. In 2015-16, 28 percent of Florida university students accumulated excess credit fees.

Florida’s Excess Credit Law (State Statute 1009.286) was founded in 2009 and was recently updated in 2018. The law was created to encourage college students to graduate faster and for colleges to adhere to timely degree completion. The law focuses on two areas: graduating in four years and not exceeding 110 percent of credits of a bachelor’s degree program (typically 120 credit hours). However, only 44 percent of Florida college students graduate within four years. This is often due to students changing majors, transferring to other institutions or college programs changing degree requirements. Last year alone, Florida colleges assessed over $28 million in excess fees to students. Many families

are unaware of the implications of the Excess Credit Law or know nothing about it until it is too late. What credits are included or excluded in the law » Credits that students may have dropped, withdrawn from, repeated, failed or transferred in from another college are included in the calculations. » Any accelerated credit, including dual enrollment, Cambridge AICE, Advanced Placement or International Baccalaureate, taken prior to high school graduation, do not count toward the Excess Credit Law. » Students who pursue double majors and internships but still

SOUTHWEST FLORIDA PARENT & CHILD » DECEMBER 2018 » 17

« ask the expert (continued) graduate within four years are not under the 110-percent credit threshold. » Other stipulations, such as military service, credits taken in ROTC, withdrawn courses due to medical issues and other extenuating circumstances are considered.

February is Open Enrollment for the 2019-2020 School Year!

NP-0000966034

The only choice

Robin Dawn Dance Academy Est. 1975

Voted Cape Coral’s Best Dance Academy Come Join Our Family of Dancers

Tap • Jazz • Hip Hop • Lyrical • Ballet • Pointe Musical Theater • Acrobatics • Contortion • Circus Equipment

How to avoid excess fees Careful academic planning for students, as early as high school, is key to reducing the costs and time it takes to graduate from college. The Florida Department of Education found that dual enrollment students graduate on average 1.4 years sooner (2.9 years) than non-dual enrollment students (4.3 years). Using programs such as dual enrollment can substantially decrease time spent in college and provide substantial cost savings. In the state of Florida, college credits earned with a C or higher are guaranteed transferability to any state college or state university. Students need to understand that all college credits are not equal. Students should focus on general education and prerequisites needed to successfully enter a post-secondary institution with college credit. Some acceleration methods provide more elective credits that are not useful and can delay a student’s progress toward their major. All colleges have college catalogs that carefully lay out how acceleration credits transfer and should be used to determine a student’s academic plan while in high school. There are multiple resources on every college campus that can help ease the process to ensure your student is on track. Students should meet regularly with their assigned advisor to make sure they are on track for completion of their degree. Also meeting with academic support centers that can aid students in writing, math, science and other academic skills can help students successfully complete the necessary coursework. As well, career centers are available to help students determine which careers work best for students and the major needed to enter that career. In all, the goal is to have students successfully join the workforce in a timely, cost-effective way. Being informed of some additional constraints, such as the Excess Credit Law, are important for parents and students to navigate through the college-to-career process. Be sure to ask questions of the high school and college your student is attending so problem areas can be avoided and you do not end up paying double tuition.

ASK THE EXPERT We welcome questions from readers. Ask us anything. We’ll find the answer. Send your question to editor@swflparentchild.com with “Ask the Expert” in the subject line. Photo courtesy of Nocera Photographic

932 Country untry Club Blvd Blvd, Cape Coral 239 549.0827 • www.RobinDawnAcademy.com 18 » DECEMBER 2018 » SWFLPARENTCHILD.COM

Echo Copeland is a single mom who lives in Southwest Florida.

single parenting » ECHO COPEL A ND

Only one thing is certain Learn to embrace your most precious gifts, even in, particularly in, turbulent times.

he last time I was on a flight was two years ago, when I took my daughter for the first time in 10 years to her birthplace, New York City. As I write this, I’ve just come from a twoand-a-half-hour flight that was only consistent in its constant turbulence. We were warned, before we started, that one thing was guaranteed: Due to weather, there would be turbulence. Lots of it. There was no disappointment there. It was my third flight in so many days, having gone with my mother out of the country to bury her beloved brother. This was the first time I had to bury a relatively close family member, albeit, I barely knew my uncle. It was also the first time I have had to be out of the country without my daughter, but I couldn’t disrupt her schedule, her stability. It was a difficult choice, like most choices that we single and not-sosingle parents face. The trip wasn’t all sadness. I found a group of cousins and family I never knew existed. I reconnected with cousins long ago forgotten and had a chance to laugh, to converse, to experience new things — a Fashion Week show and sightseeing to some of the most beautiful places and buildings I have ever seen. I even had the rare opportunity to do the one activity I love most of all but rarely get the chance to do: dance. I vowed I would come again, this time with my lovely girl in tow.

As human beings, we will come across a lot of pain, anguish, turmoil and tribulation. Tons of it. Death is a surety and a constant reminder that sometimes we need to change. We need to channel what is most important. It sounds cliché, but nothing is more pressing. And so I reiterate the importance of time and the management of such a precious commodity — this life. A character on a show I was watching recently said something that resonated with me deeply. She said it is so startling how much we hold on to, when death erases everything. In the end, none of it matters. How forgiving we would be if we just remembered that in the end not much is crucial. The slights we receive, the misunderstandings, even a husband’s betrayal won’t matter even a minute when we are in our last few seconds of breath. As they lowered my uncle into the ground of a cemetery so pretty it seemed straight from a movie, I thought of that statement. None of it matters to him anymore. What is my takeaway from this experience? As is the life of the single parent, fraught with turbulence. As has been my life, particularly this year, I have made many changes. All for the better is all I can hope. We must hold onto what is most precious, especially in turbulent times. That much is guaranteed, constant turbulence. Keep your seat belts fastened and try to enjoy the ride.

SOUTHWEST FLORIDA PARENT & CHILD » DECEMBER 2018 » 19

in the kitchen »

SHELBY R E Y NOLDS

Crafty WITH

cookies S ome of my favorite memories of the holidays involve a sugar cookie, a squeeze-bag of red and green icing and an absolute mess of sprinkles and miniature M&M’s. I always thought I was so artistic. I would craft my cookie creations with precision and care, envisioning my masterpiece before ever pressing a single candied googly eye into the icing of my reindeer cookie. My family recalls one Christmas Eve when the icing wasn’t just the right consistency for proper decoration, and I threw a particularly colorful fit. Hopefully your kids aren’t as discriminating with their cookie decorating as I once was. These days, I’m just happy if I don’t forget to set the clock on the

20 » DECEMBER 2018 » SWFLPARENTCHILD.COM

oven and turn my cookies to a blackened crisp. But regardless of skills, creativity or varying degrees of crispness, decorating cookies with family on Christmas Eve is a meaningful tradition. Put on a holiday movie or album in the background, wear an ugly sweater and sip hot chocolate or cider. I start with a basic sugar cookie recipe to serve as a base — a versatile one that’s easy to roll and work with. Make this ahead of time, as it will need to chill for a few hours, or overnight. From there, you can shape, cut out, bake and decorate any way you’d like. Let’s start with the cookie dough.

PHOTO BY H. LEO KIM

One recipe is all you need to make dozens of different cookie concoctions.

Basic Sugar Cookies INGREDIENTS • 1½ cups unsalted butter, softened • 11/4 cups sugar • 2 eggs, room temperature • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract • 4 cups all-purpose flour • 1 tablespoon baking powder • ½ teaspoon salt

DIRECTIONS 1. Preheat oven to 375 degrees. 2. In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder and salt. Set aside. 3. In a large mixing bowl, cream butter and sugar until fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each. Mix in vanilla. Add dry ingredients and use a wooden spoon to mix

Makes about 3 dozen

just until thoroughly combined. Do not overmix. Shape dough into two oneinch thick disks and seal dough in plastic wrap. Refrigerate for an hour or overnight. 4. For the crafty cookies on the next page, stop here and go there. 5. To make basic sugar cookies, roll out the dough to about 1/4 inch thick on a floured

surface. Cut out desired shapes and place on ungreased baking sheet. Bake for 8 minutes or until cookies have a slight golden hint on the edges. Let cookies cool for 5 minutes before removing from cookie sheet. 6. Decorate as you desire with icing, frosting, sprinkles or other goodies. SOURCE: thanksgiving.com

SOUTHWEST FLORIDA PARENT & CHILD » DECEMBER 2018 » 21

» in the kitchen (continued) Here are two Instagram-worthy ideas that are as tasty as they are pretty.

Miniature Sugar Cookie Bites INGREDIENTS » One chilled cookie dough disk » Vanilla frosting » Red and green food coloring » Sprinkles DIRECTIONS 1. Preheat oven to 325 degrees. 2. Lay out a large piece of waxed paper and roll dough into a 1/2-inch thick square. Use a pizza cutter to cut dough into ½-inch squares, about two dozen small pieces. Place squares onto large cookie sheet and bake until cookies are light brown, 18 to 20 minutes. Let cool completely. 3. Divide vanilla frosting into three small bowls. Dye one bowl red with red food coloring and another green. Spread frosting on each cookie, alternating between red, green and white. 4. Decorate with sprinkles.

Melted Snowman Cookies INGREDIENTS » One chilled cookie dough disk » Marshmallows, halved at an angle » White cookie icing » Black cookie icing » Orange sprinkles » Cinnamon imperials » Chocolate sprinkles

DIRECTIONS 1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Set aside. 2. Dust a clean surface with flour and roll the dough to 1/8 inch. Continue to add flour as needed so that it doesn’t stick. 3. Use a round cookie-cutter or the top of a drinking glass to cut out shapes and use a

22 » DECEMBER 2018 » SWFLPARENTCHILD.COM

spatula to transfer to baking sheet. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until edges just begin to turn golden. Cool completely. 4. Spread with white cookie icing to create melted blobs. 5. Decorate marshmallows with black cookie icing to make dots for eyes and a smile. Insert an orange sprinkle into the marshmallow for a nose.

6. Place marshmallow on cookie icing and add more around the neck to secure it. 7. Place three cinnamon imperials on cookie icing in a line in front of the marshmallow for buttons and add chocolate sprinkles for arms. Adapted from delish.com

dining out »

Made with love Mom’s boasts homemade cooking in two locations: Fort Myers Beach and Cape Coral. BY ANN M. O’PHELAN

PHOTOS BY ANNABELLE TOMETICH

n the Cape Coral shopping plaza known for its 28-foot tall Big John statue, a casual-dining restaurant opened over summer—Mom’s Restaurant. I was hoping that it was the same place that sold the heavenly cinnamon rolls on Fort Myers Beach, and lucky for me, it was. The inside is a little small, and there are just a few tables outside, but it’s worth the wait if they’re busy, and if they’re not, well, then you’re in luck for getting a table right away. (To-go always works, too.) While you’re waiting, you can enjoy the kitchen up close, along with the delicious aroma coming from it. I love a good cup of coffee (or two) in the morning and a glass of fresh squeezed juice, especially orange, so this place hits the spot when it comes to drinks, as well as comfort food. Along with fresh orange juice, they also have a variety of juices you can mix and match, including grapefruit and pineapple. There’s one menu, so you can order breakfast for lunch or lunch for breakfast. However, I am a breakfast lover myself, as are my children, and so we started with the giant cinnamon rolls — fluffy, sugary, dangerously addicting — along with three glasses of fresh O.J. on this early weekend morning. The rolls were big enough to split, but none of us were game on the idea. We grabbed a few seats outside but had Plan B in case they were full. We were going to head to a local park to feast. Why not? The weather was good, and the nearby

Above: Outside Mom’s Cape Coral location. Right: A buttercream-frosted cinnamon roll.

parks are pleasing. After the cinnamon rolls, we headed in for an order of three egg sandwiches with a variety of breads and toppings ($4.50 each). They were everything we expected — fresh and homemade. We took a little home in a doggie bag, thanks to the cinnamon rolls filling us up beforehand. Lunch lovers will be glad to know there are a variety of delicious lunch options, such as the Cuban and fresh roasted turkey sandwiches, along with a variety of desserts. Most items are made with farm fresh veggies, fruits and other products, and you can taste the difference. We headed to the park afterward, so we still got to go look for squirrels and osprey. And if you go to the Fort Myers Beach location, you can always head to the beach.

Mom’s Restaurant » Locations: 1239 Cape Coral Parkway E., Cape Coral, and 2450 Estero Blvd., Fort Myers Beach » Phone: 239-209-0707 » Online: moms-restaurant-fortmyersbeach. com » Hours: 7 a.m.-2 p.m. Wednesday-Sunday, 7 a.m.-noon Monday, closed Tuesdays. » Price range: $6-$15 » Kids’ menu: Grilled cheese, ham and cheese, peanut butter and jelly, each $4. There are also kid-friendly items on the main menu, such as the 3 Little Piggies, a Cuban ham and pulled pork slider ($9), soup ($4) and an egg sandwich with bread, meat and cheese ($4.50). » Tips: The Fort Myers Beach location has highchairs, fresh produce, and it’s larger. Both have indoor and outdoor dining.

SOUTHWEST FLORIDA PARENT & CHILD » DECEMBER 2018 » 23

The only choice

Robin Dawn Dance Academy Est. 1975

Voted Cape Coral’s Best Dance Academy Come Join Our Family of Dancers

Tap • Jazz • Hip Hop • Lyrical • Ballet • Pointe Musical Theater • Acrobatics • Contortion • Circus Equipment

February is Open Enrollment for the 2019-2020 School Year!

Photo courtesy of Nocera Photographic

932 Country untry Club Blvd Blvd, Cape Coral 239 549.0827 • www.RobinDawnAcademy.com NP-0000966034

Awesome Awaits! Holiday Events Included in Park Admission LEGOLAND.com/Florida 1 LEGOLAND Way, Winter Haven, FL 33884

24 » DECEMBER 2018 » SWFLPARENTCHILD.COM

youth sports »

Janis B. Meredith, a parenting coach, was a coach’s wife for 29 years and sports mom for 22 years. She lives in Alva, where she writes about raising champions on JBMThinks.com.

JA NIS B. MER EDIT H

5 WAYS

TO THANK A COACH

f your child plays sports, then you know how much work the coach does to help each player grow and to lead the team to success. Even if you don’t like the coach or don’t always agree with the coach, they still deserve to be thanked for their sacrifice. Here are some great ideas for how you can say “Thank you” to your child’s coach:

Volunteer to help.

Thanks can be expressed in many ways. One very tangible way to express gratitude is to serve the team. Volunteer to help in any way you can. For coaches to focus on developing the team, they need help with planning events, administrative work and communicating with parents. This is a thank-you that your coach will truly appreciate.

Write thank-you notes from you and your child.

Writing a letter may seem like a simple token of gratitude, but your words of thanks will mean more to the coach than you may realize. Coaches get many negative emails and letters from parents complaining about one thing or another, so a letter of gratitude from you and from your child will mean the world. Another idea is to have your child write a poem of thanks.

Have the whole team write out their thanks.

Take the letter writing one step further and have everyone on the team do it. Numerous let-

ters of appreciation are a present that the coach will never forget. Or have everyone on the team write a note and sign a ball for the coach.

Throw the coach a surprise thank-you party.

Don’t wait until the end of the season for a thank-you party. Do it mid-season just to let the coach know that you recognize and appreciate their sacrifices.

Support the coach by thanking them after each game.

Every coach enjoys hearing the words, “Thank you, Coach,” after each game. As you say thanks, expound on it a bit. “Thank you for all the time you give to these kids. We truly appreciate it.” Thankful parents always meant a lot to my husband, who coached for 29 years. There were always plenty of complaining parents and not enough thankful ones. Take a turn at coaching your child’s team one season, and you will never again take a coach for granted.

SOUTHWEST FLORIDA PARENT & CHILD » DECEMBER 2018 » 25

« kid stuff

bigFOR THE

HOLIDAYS W

A short drive delivers larger-than-life celebrations that are tradition for many Florida families. BY ANDREA STETSON

hen you live in a state known for its mega attractions, the holidays can be amazingly big and bright. From theme parks, to a special train ride, to a castle of ice, there are some super-scale events not too far from Southwest Florida.

The Polar Express The Polar Express is more than a movie and a book. Near Orlando and in Miami, it is a real train that brings the magic of Christmas to those who ride it. Passengers even receive a special jingle bell gift. This magical experience takes guests to the “North Pole” aboard a train that recreates the movie. As in the film, passengers have their golden ticket punched, are served cocoa and treats by dancing chefs and get a visit from Santa, who hands out silver bells from his sleigh. “What makes it such a unique experience is it harkens back to the days when family was everything, and it brings back the kid in you, and you put that together, and that makes it a great event for everybody,” says Neil Bagaus, the general manager. Prices vary depending on day and car.

26 » DECEMBER 2018 » SWFLPARENTCHILD.COM

“The show is the same in every car,” Neil says. “The difference is the style of seat, whether you have a table or not or whether you get a souvenir mug or not. You are not going to cheat yourself no matter what car you are in.” • Where: The Royal Palm Railway Experience, 2700 W. Old Highway 441, Mount Dora, and at the Gold Coast Railroad Museum, 12450 S.W. 152nd St., Miami • When: Now through December 30, three trains run each day TuesdayFriday, December 4-14 and 27-28. On weekends all month and on weekdays December 17-26, the trains run five times a day. Exact times are available online. There is no train on Christmas Day. • Cost: In Mount Dora, prices are $37.97 to $89.97 depending on day and choice of coach, custom or first class. In Miami, prices are $34.99 to $99.99. Children younger than 2 who do not occupy a seat ride free. • Phone: 352-742-7200 • Online: thefloridatrain.com

Gaylord Palms ICE! Two million pounds of ice at the Gaylord Palms Resort & Convention Center in Kissimmee create an indoor winter wonderland. The attraction also features more than two million twinkling lights and acres of lavish decorations. There are shows, snow tubing, interactive ice sculptures and displays. This year the theme of ICE! borrows

from the classic movie “A Christmas Story.” “It goes through the Warner Brothers classic scene by scene,” says spokesperson Chris Brumbaugh. “All the iconic parts of the movie are created from ice.” Guests are given a parka to use but should bring their own hats and mittens and wear long pants and closed-toed shoes. It’s a chilly 9 degrees inside. • When: Now through January 6, hours vary by day • Cost: Tickets for ICE! start at $28.99 for adults, $14.99 for ages 4-12, free for ages 3 and younger. Packages are available to include other activities, such as snow tubing. Florida residents can use promo code FLR18 to save $3 when purchased online in advance or $2 at the box office or via phone. • Phone: 407-586-4423 • Online: marriott.com/ hotel-info/mcogp-gaylord-palms-resortand-convention-center/gaylord-christmas/ csyr9pd/home-page.mi

Legoland A 30-foot Lego tree towers over Legoland Florida. But that is just the beginning of the park’s Christmas Bricktacular and Kids’ New Year’s Party. “There is a giant life-size display — you can actually sit in the sleigh and take a picture,” says spokesperson Brittany Williams. “It’s fun.”

There are Lego toy soldiers and Santa’s reindeer all made with thousands of colorful Lego bricks. After Christmas, Legoland transitions into a New Year’s Eve celebration with a fireworks show. “You get complimentary viewing glasses, and it makes it look like Lego bricks are exploding in the sky,” Brittany says. “It is one tradition we keep in my family. We watch the bricks drop — we have a brick drop instead of a ball drop.”

PHOTO PROVIDED BY WALT DISNEY WORLD

• When: Christmas Bricktacular is December 1, 2, 8, 9, 15, 16, 22-25, then the Kids’ New Year’s Eve Party runs December 26-31. • Cost: $88.99 at the admission window. Discounts available online. • Online: legoland.com/florida

Happy Holidays!

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Disney’s Magic Kingdom Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party is a longtime holiday tradition at the Magic Kingdom. The nighttime party features Disney characters in holiday attire, holiday music and the Once Upon a Christmastime Parade. “Currently we don’t have a nighttime parade at Magic Kingdom. Therefore, the Once Upon a Christmas Parade is very unique to the guests that attend Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party,” says spokesperson Sarah Domenech. “The floats have lights and other holiday décor, the characters and performers are dressed to impress with their best holiday attires, and Santa makes an appearance.” Hot chocolate and warm cookies are served along with other seasonal beverages, and special effects transform Cinderella’s Castle into ice as fireworks soar above. “Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas is the place where the holidays start,” Sarah says. • When: 7 p.m. to midnight December 2, 4, 6, 7, 9, 11, 13, 14, 16, 18, 20 and 21 (guests may enter the park as early as 4 p.m.) • Cost: Tickets start at $99 for ages 10 and older, $94 for ages 3-9 (prices vary by date); children younger than 3 don’t need a ticket. • Online: disneyworld.disney.go.com/ events-tours/magic-kingdom/mickeys-very-merry-christmasparty

ppcswﬂ.com

Early Learning Coalition of SWFL can help your family with Voluntary Pre-Kindergarten If you live in Florida & your child turns 4 YEARS OLD by September 1, your child is eligible for the VPK program. Some 5 year olds are also eligible. For more information & to register your child: FamilyServicesFloridaEarlyLearning.com

www.elcofswfl.org Serving Collier, Glades, Hendry & Lee Counties | (239) 935-6100 SOUTHWEST FLORIDA PARENT & CHILD » DECEMBER 2018 » 27

Holiday Dance Party 15th December 2018 at New Hope PresbyterianChurch

(Plantation Road & Colonial Blvd.) FREE to the Public

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« kid stuff

(continued)

The Florida Aquarium It will be snowing at The Florida Aquarium. Santa and his elves are joining the marine mammals and fish there and bringing winter wonder with them. “The Florida Aquarium is the ultimate destination for winter fun,” says spokesperson Meghan Fellner. “Meet Santa, play in the snow in Florida and see ‘The Polar Express’ in our 4-D theater. We have plenty of holiday cheer to spare.” The year, the aquarium is adding a snow time for children with sensory needs. • Where: 701 Channelside Drive, Tampa • When: The aquarium is typically open 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily (closed December 25). Santa and his elves will be there December 1, 8, 15 and 22, with a breakfast with Santa on December 8. There’s a holiday boat parade there December 22. Snow days are December 26-30 with a Sensory Snow Day 8-10 a.m. December 29. • Cost: Included with regular admission, which starts at $27.50 for adults and $22.50 for children (free for ages 2 and younger). Discounts available online. • Phone: 813-273-4000 • Online: flaquarium.org

Crayola Experience The Crayola Experience in Orlando is getting into the holiday spirit with special seasonal crafts. Guests can mold an elf with Crayola Model Magic, color and craft a handmade pop-out card and paint festive garland. Families also can take part in a holiday scavenger hunt, pose for photos with themed character cut-outs, enjoy seasonal treats and more. • Where: Florida Mall, 8001 S. Orange Blossom Trail, Orlando • When: Now through January 6; the Crayola Experience is open 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday-Friday, 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Saturday and Sunday and December 22-January 6, except December 24-25 when it closes at 6 p.m. • Cost: Regular admission is $24.99, save $3 online. Free for ages 2 and younger. • Online: crayolaexperience.com/orlando

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Busch Gardens Christmas Town is back at Busch Gardens. There are Yuletide shows, visits to Santa’s House and characters from “Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer.” A full list of the fun, including extra add-ons, is available at Busch Garden’s website. “At Busch Gardens Tampa Bay’s Christmas Town, there’s something for everyone to enjoy this holiday season,” says spokesperson Rebecca Romzek. “From roller coaster rides above twinkling lights to heartwarming shows and visits with Santa, guests can join in all the wonders of Christmas Town, included with their daily admission to the park.” • Where: 10165 McKinley Drive, Tampa • When: Now through December 31. Park opens at 10 a.m. and closes at 7 p.m. Monday-Thursday, 10 p.m. weekends and December 25-30, 8 p.m. December 24 and 1 a.m. New Year’s Eve. There will be a Three Kings Celebration with Latin traditions January 1-6. • Cost: Included with regular admission, which starts at $79.99. • Online: buschgardenstampa.com

28 » DECEMBER 2018 » SWFLPARENTCHILD.COM

teens »

The gift of travel Southwest Florida families shake up the holidays with trips instead of toys as gifts. BY ANDREA STETSON

ayanna and Blaise Ciabaton had one child in college, two in high school and one in middle school last Christmas when they decided that the holidays were for giving family memories rather than giving big gifts. “I think as my kids grew older, I realized the memories are way more important than the things,” Dayanna explains. The North Naples mother knew there weren’t many more years left when the entire family would be together to enjoy something special. So the holiday gift was a trip to New York City. They went over the Thanksgiving holiday, so they could enjoy the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade. They saw Broadway shows, went ice skating and viewed the sights of the city. “Toys end up in the landfill, and these experiences with your kids are once-in-a-lifetime memories,” Dayanna says. “It was an amazing experience.

The boys are getting older, and you just don’t know when the next time is when you can all be together. As a parent you see that slipping away, and last year it was so forefront in my head.” This year her two oldest sons, George and Jack, are in college, her daughter Abby is in high school and Zoe is a middle school student. The girls say they loved their vacation Christmas present. “I did miss the presents a bit, but it was a ton of fun getting that experience to go to New York City,” Zoe says. “Each thing that we did was like a Christmas present. Going to see ‘Wicked’ was like a big Christmas present, going to see ‘Charlie and the Chocolate Factory’ was like a big Christmas present, going ice skating was like a big Christmas present, just walking around the city was like a big Christmas present. I think it was a ton of fun.” “I really enjoyed it,” Abby adds. “I thought it was super fun, and it was a

good change. We are so used to getting all of these presents, but getting a new experience and seeing a new place was really cool. It was really nice, because it was one big family adventure together. It was a Christmas gift for all of us to have a really great time together before they (her brothers) went off to college.” Leslie and Greg Taylor, of Naples, did the same with their son Sam. “We have had about 10 destination Christmases, because Sam loves to travel and prefers places over presents. We have done London, Paris, New York, San Francisco, Bahamas, The Netherlands, Copenhagen, Quebec. It’s just fun,” Leslie says. “Traditions are often unique in each place, food incredibly diverse, but the love of family is the same. To this day Sam will talk about Christmas destinations and favorite memories over any gift we have ever bought him.” Julie Frizzi, a guidance counselor at Naples Park Elementary, sees the benefits of a vacation present.

SOUTHWEST FLORIDA PARENT & CHILD » DECEMBER 2018 » 29

« teens (continued) “The benefit of being together as a family is just that full bonding of being there and together,” she says. “When they are in high school, they are so busy with band and sports and everything, so a trip is a time when the family can be together.” Stacey Brown, a licensed mental health counselor in Fort Myers, sometimes gives her three teenage daughters a family vacation rather than big presents. “We’ve done it,” she says. “In all honesty, they don’t need anything. They have everything they already need. When Christmas rolls around, I found myself making up stuff to find something for them.” The Brown family has taken trips to see concerts, go skiing and snowboarding. “When the kids were little, we did the whole Santa Claus and presents thing, but as far as big-ticket stuff, I would

rather go to Costa Rica,” Stacey says. “Taking a trip is a healthy, beautiful thing to do. After a while all the Christmases blend together, so this is a way to make it memorable.” Brown stresses that a trip doesn’t mean no gifts under the tree. Parents can give smaller items, like puzzles or socks. “The stockings are always filled, so they have the flavor of Christmas,” she says. “Or if someone needs tennis shoes, you get them tennis shoes. There are some practical gifts, so it’s all good.” She also recommends preparing teens for the changing look of holiday gifts. “It depends a lot on the culture of the family,” she explains. “If the family culture is ‘We value each other not stuff,’ it will be easier. If the family always looks at competitive shopping and designer brands, then making this shift

could be a little more difficult. So the family might need to talk to the kids … about changing the way we do things. The parents need to be the leaders and set the tone and give the kids time to process their feelings. It is the parent’s job to help them reframe this, so it can be a healthy transition.” Letting teens help plan the trip and pick an activity will also help, Stacey says. Vacation presents can be costly, even more expensive that big-ticket gifts, but Brown says it doesn’t have to be that way. “It doesn’t have to be going to Paris; not everyone can afford that,” she says. “One time our family went to Cedar Key and had shrimp, it was really memorable, because we shook it up and did different things. Novelty is good. Novelty creates different kinds of memories.”

“The Fort Myers Skatium is where you will find the best ice in town” • Youth Volleyball • Adult Co-Ed Soccer • Youth Soccer • Figure Skating

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• Youth Basketball • Learn to Skate • Birthday Parties • Our Fitness Center

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For more information on all our activities contact us at 239-321-7509 30 » DECEMBER 2018 » SWFLPARENTCHILD.COM

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spotlight »

Jill Baguchinsky in her Marco Island home.

Novel OUTSIDER

Marco Island novelist empowers teens to find their inner uniqueness. STORY BY CATHY CHESTNUT

arco Island is a slowpaced barrier island with a rich archeological legacy left behind by the Calusa long ago. But the specter of the vanished natives isn’t what draws writer Jill Baguchinsky to themes of paleontology and paranormal activities, or teenage angst, set against the backdrop of the island, where she moved as an infant.

SOUTHWEST FLORIDA PARENT & CHILD » DECEMBER 2018 » 31

» spotlight (continued) Her interests were fueled by her close encounter to the impressive T. rex skeleton at the American Museum of Natural History in New York City as a youngster and the 1990 release of the novel “Jurassic Park.” She’s gobbled up Stephen King since she was 10 or 11, and can’t walk away from a horror flick. “I’m warped,” she declares. As for teen angst, the voracious reader has felt like an outsider since she was a Lely High School student toiling away on her first novel (about an Irish werewolf roaming Marco Island). The lifelong islander, 39, is hitting the road to promote her second young adult novel, “Mammoth” (Turner Publishing Company). Here’s how she describes the girlempowering plot: “It’s the story of a teenaged, plus-size fashion blogger and paleontology geek who lands an internship at an Ice Age dig site. To stand out in the field, she has to find — to dig up — her true awesomeness.” The main character, Natalie, 16, is a rising junior with a serious selfesteem deficit who has created what Jill calls “her armor” as a defense against bullies. “She created a persona: vintage clothes, dark eyeliner and heavy lipstick. That sort of thing doesn’t work well when you’re digging in the dirt or prospecting for fossils, so she has to be herself and find her true confidence,” Jill says. It also celebrates females working in STEM fields as Natalie — from a fictional Florida town that local readers might recognize as Naples — heads to a Texas dig site based on Waco Mammoth National Monument. It explores body positivity, bullying and finding passion and integrity — along with light romance. This follows her “Spookygirl: Paranormal Investigator,” published by Dutton in 2012 after Jill beat out 10,000 other contenders in a competition run by Amazon and Penguin for writers unable to break into the publishing world. “Spooky-

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girl” — about a Marco teen who can see ghosts and is grappling with her mother’s mysterious death — earned the Amazon Breakthrough Novel Award in Young Adult Fiction and a publishing contract. Her love of reading led Jill to become a writer. “My mother jokes, even at the dinner table, I would eat with one hand and have a book in the other, because I was constantly reading,” she says with a laugh. She earned a degree in liberal arts from Florida Gulf Coast University, where she took a broad range of history and anthropology, psychology, literature and writing courses. “I tried to take things that would be helpful when I was writing books,” she says. The self-proclaimed homebody likes to keep her hands busy on artistic projects. She knits, embroiders, hand quilts, sews and embraces DIY projects — “whatever grabs my attention. It’s just the creative process, like writing.” Jill is a freelance writer and graphic designer who assists with websites, blogging and marketing. For 11 years, she had her own Etsy store, called Mint Conspiracy. She sold little plush monsters, which she describes as “squeeful,” that she hand-stitched herself, inspired by her family’s toy store, Teddy & Friends. “After years of hand sewing thousands, I was literally burned out. It’s fun to make the first monster, but after 2,000, it gets a little old,” she says. This summer, she was diligently creating keychains to pass out at book-signing and speaking engagements. They feature metal charms that represent elements of paleontology: a shovel, a small hand brush and a bone. Paleontology is in her bones. “I was just always one of those kids who was super into dinosaurs,” she says. “I never grew out of that.”

“My mother jokes, even at the dinner table, I would eat with one hand and have a book in the other, because I was constantly reading.” — JILL BAGUCHINSKY

“Mammoth” is available on amazon.com

PHOTOS BY ANDREW WEST

spotlight »

From left, Audrina Kantarze, Trevor Stuart, Katherine Reid, Tabitha Torchia, Gabe Gear and Heath Press are members of the Chicklet Club based in Fort Myers.

Making connections Southwest Florida kids find community and success in the Chicklet Club, which airs on Saturdays on CTN. BY ANDREA STETSON

group of Southwest Florida kids who desperately needed a boost to success recently found out they will get that boost — nationally on television. The children are part of the Chicklet Club, which has been creating educational videos for the local Christian Television Network station for more than a year. In November they learned their 30-minute show will air on CTN nationally and livestream on DirecTV and Glorystar. It all began with a Southwest Flor-

ida woman named Leslie Robinson. “My original story is I am in recovery,” Leslie begins. She’s been clean for 15 years but says she was an alcoholic and drug addict. After recovering, she began a group called the Street Chicks to help other addicts. That’s when she met the children of these addicts. “The kids started coming to us and telling us stories about mom smoking pot, and my heart was ‘Oh my gosh.’ I didn’t think about the kids,” Leslie says, “so I thought I would give them their own TV show.”

The club has many benefits, she explains. It gives the children opportunities to visit places such as the IMAG History & Science Center, Naples Botanical Gardens and the Conservancy of Southwest Florida. As they learn — about dinosaurs, clouds, how to make slime — Leslie records it and puts it together as an educational video. The club offers them support, structure and safety. It also teaches them values. “With the Chicklet Club, I want to be inclusive, so we have a moral theme to all our things,” she says.

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« spotlight (continued)

“Everywhere we go, we learn.” The children learned about business when they visited Cinnabon, for example. They learn about technology from Leslie as she teaches them to record and edit. “It is reality-based education,” Leslie says. “It is the world through their eyes.” It’s not always easy. The children are rambunctious, silly and overly excited. Leslie must often shoot numerous five-second segments and then edit them together to make a 30-minute show. But she says it is worth it, because it teaches the children good values and it’s giving them an emotional and confidence boost, especially with the news that the show will be seen beyond Southwest Florida now. “We learn to take care of each other,” says Audrina Kantarze, 9. She says her favorite episode was the one at IMAG. “We got to pet stingrays,” she says. “I like the one at the beach and the one at Cinnabon,” says Katherine Reid, 9. “There was one where we wore pink tank tops and had apples, and we put them in paint and pressed them on our shirts.” Katherine also recalls some of the lessons learned. “We learned not to be a bully and not to be mean,” she says. “Treat people the way you want to be treated,” says Heath Press, 8, when asked what he learned. Heath says his favorite episode was when they went on the pirate ship. The other core Chicklets include Tabitha Torchia, 9, Trevor Stuart, 7, and Gabe Gear, 6. Kid viewers can also join the club as a “Chicklet Producer,” with parent permission. Leslie says going national won’t affect the six children who make up the core group, but it will make the show easier to produce. “Right now, I am wearing all the hats,” she says. The national status will get her staff to help with editing and production. “It will just make everything better and provide a strong platform,” she says. “The concept is strong with reality education. I am looking forward to my concept being highly produced.” EDITOR’S NOTE: Chicklet Club airs 9 a.m. Saturdays on CTN and livestreams at ctnonline.com. More at chickletclub.com.

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spotlight »

THE LITTLEST

DUDE Fort Myers’ Ashton Heathcoat joins the big leagues on cast of ‘I Am Frankie.’

hen Ashton Heathcoat, 8, first heard he landed a role on the Nickelodeon show “I Am Frankie,” he ran down his street cheering in excitement. “I didn’t care about my shoes. I just ran down the cul-de-sac without them,” Ashton exclaims. “I was screaming. I ran all the way down the cul-de-sac and back.” Ashton, of Fort Myers, plays Beto, the newest and youngest android on the show. He’s the second child from Southwest Florida to land a role on “I Am Frankie.” Sophia Forest, 13, of Fort Myers, plays the younger sister of teen android Frankie, a top-secret inven-

tion adopted by a non-android family to protect it from nefarious forces. Beto is the android son of Frankie’s creator’s college roommate and is introduced in Season 2, which recently finished airing. “Beto is cute, curious and wild,” Ashton says. “He is the littlest dude.” Ashton has had lots of fun playing this wild and curious creature. He’s done fight stunts, lifted a man over his head, with the help of hidden wires, and thrown tons of messy white flour. “My favorite scenes are the ones with me throwing flour and running around the restaurant and doing the stunts. I get to flip them over and kicked them to the ground,” Ashton says.

BY ANDREA STETSON

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« spotlight (continued)

The cast of “I Am Frankie” includes Fort Myers’ Ashton Heathcoat, at bottom left, fellow Southwest Florida actress Sophia Forest, leaning over Ashton’s shoulder, and the star of the show, Alex Hook, center.

PHOTO COURTE

SY OF NICKELO

DEON

Ashton attends the Edison Park Creative and Expressive Arts School. There he gets free vocal, dance and acting classes. But it was his older sister’s connection to theater that got Ashton into acting. “My daughter does a lot of musical theater, and the director called everyone and said they were looking for someone to do a commercial, and they both got cast,” says Ashton’s mother, Torrie Heathcoat, who you might know as stilt walker Way Too Tall Torrie. “We thought it would just be a fun day, and they got paid.” The commercial was for JetBlue. Torrie thought that would be the end of Ashton’s acting career. But he began getting called for auditions. He landed a commercial for MasterCard. He got close to getting some bigger parts and was even in the final two for a role, but it wasn’t until earlier this year that he got his big break. “It was crazy,” Torrie says. “We thought never in a million years. I don’t think any of us believed he got it. But what helped him is he is so chill, and he is not an actor boy. The android had to be really relaxed and not over the top, and he is really chill.” Ashton says the audition wasn’t what he expected. “We had to do lines that were not in the script, which would be weird,” he says. “Usually you do lines that are in the script.” When he made the final round of callbacks, he got to go to Miami and meet the cast to see how they interacted.

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That’s when Ashton found out that both he and Alex Hook, who plays Frankie, are also ice hockey goalies. He had only a few weeks after finding out he had the role to relocate to Miami with his mother for two months of filming. He is in 10 of the 22 episodes for Season 2. Even though the days on the set are long, and he has tutors to keep up with schoolwork, he was happier on the set than off. Now he is hoping the show goes into a third season. “That would be really cool,” Torrie says. “We should know in a few weeks if there is a Season 3.” Ashton is also looking to the future. “I would probably like a big movie role,” he says. “Comedy, I don’t like drama and I definitely don’t like horror.” He also prefers television to live theater. “The thing I like about being on camera is if you mess up they just do it again,” Ashton says. “It’s not like theater where you mess up in front of 3,000 people.”

cover story »

WAYS TO

ENJOY THE SPARKLE AND MAGIC

OF THE HOLIDAYS BY ANDREA STETSON PHOTO BY AMANDA INSCORE

Jaiden Marino, 3, of Cape Coral

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« cover story (continued)

e don’t have snow or sleigh riding. Palm trees are the norm instead of firs. In Southwest Florida, we make different types of holiday traditions in the sun and surf. That’s exactly what these attractions around town do each year. They bring the sparkle and magic of the holidays in their own unique way.

LEE COUNTY

Santa's Block Party & Children’s Workshop

Santa's Block Party & Children’s Workshop A Festival of Trees event, the annual Santa’s Block Party and Children’s Workshop features a bounce house, activities for the kids, arts and crafts and photos with Santa. There will also be food, entertainment, games and prizes. The Festival of Trees, November 27 to December 2, is a display of elaborately decorated trees inside the Sidney & Berne Davis Art Center. • When: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, December 1 • Where: In front of the Sidney & Berne Davis Art Center, 2301 First St., Fort Myers • Cost: Block party admission is free, workshop portion is $6, photo with Santa is $5. Admission to the tree viewing is $2 for ages 12 and older. • More details: 239-333-1933 or goodwilltrees.com

Light Up Estero

Santa Fest

Enjoy music, food, games, a visit from Santa and the annual tree lighting ceremony. • When: 4 to 7 p.m. Saturday, December 1 • Where: Estero Community Park and Recreation Center, 9200 Corkscrew Palms Blvd., Estero • Cost: Free (nonperishable food donations encouraged) • More details: 239-533-1470

Have breakfast with Santa, get a photo op and take part in activities and crafts. • When: 9 a.m. to noon Saturday, December 1 • Where: Wa-Ke Hatchee Community Park, 16760 Bass Road, Fort Myers. • Cost: $5 per child or a toy donation • More details: 239432-2154 or leegov.com/parks

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Edison and Ford Holiday Nights The historic buildings and gardens of the Edison and Ford Winter Estates are adorned with lights and traditional trimmings. New this year, its 43rd, the event has additional lights and new, larger decorations. For the tree lighting ceremony, the Estates created a tree of bromeliads

Edison and Ford Holiday Nights by the banyan. The lights shine out through the plants. The “Liquid Fireworks” Waltzing Waters display returns with a new show. Laser lights will be projected on the banyan tree. The Children’s Tree Trail features 60 trees with ornaments made by Lee County students. Santa and Mrs. Claus visit December 2, 9, 16 and 23. • When: 5:30-9 p.m. through December 30; closed December 24-25 • Where: Edison and Ford Winter Estates, 2350 McGregor Blvd., Fort Myers • Cost: Self-guided tours are $20 for adults, $10 for ages 13-19, $2 for ages 6-12, free for members. Guided Tours are $30, $25, $18 and $10. Lee County residents get $5 off each Sunday and Monday. • More details: 239-334-7419 or edisonfordwinterestates.org

Holiday House Santa visits every night at the historic Burroughs Home & Gardens and Langford Kingston Home, which are decorated in the theme Mistletoe Magic this year, the event’s 62nd year. “It is a Southwest Florida look with a lively spice of New Orleans thrown in,” says Paige LeBoutillier, the Holiday House committee chairwoman for the Fort Myers Woman’s Community Club. “It will be lively, whimsical, festive, sparkly and spicy.” The decorations combine black and white and black and cream with splashes of lime green and gold. “There will be gold beads, crowns, animals, Santa, castles and obviously mistletoe,” she says. “We have Santa

every night at Holiday House, so it is a wonderful tradition for families.” Money raised goes back to the properties to help pay for upkeep and improvements. • When: 5-9 p.m. December 7-22 (last tour at 8:30) • Where: Burroughs Home & Gardens, 2505 First St., Fort Myers, and Langford Kingston Home (First Street and Fowler) • Cost: $5 for adults, free for children 10 and younger and military with ID • More details: fmwcc.net

Holiday in the Park Snow falls in Riverside Park during this annual holiday festival. Enjoy tubing down an icy slope, a big snow pile, tree lighting, visit from Santa and Mrs. Claus, live music, food and more. • When: 4:30-8:30 p.m. Tuesday, December 4 • Where: Riverside Park, 10450 Reynolds St., Bonita Springs • Cost: Free admission • More details: 239-949-6262 or cityofbonitasprings.org

Holiday Express The beloved Holiday Express miniature train ride transports adults and children alike through a winter wonderland of miniature villages decked out in lights and decorations. The 1-mile ride takes about 15 minutes. • When: December 14-31; 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. and 6 to 9 p.m. MondayFriday, 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Saturday and Sunday (closes at 2 p.m. December 24 and 31 and closed all day December

25) • Where: Railroad Museum of South Florida at Lakes Regional Park, 7330 Gladiolus Drive, Fort Myers • Cost: $6 for ages 6 to adult, free for ages 1-5 (prices were tentatively set at publication) • More details: 239-2671905

Breakfast with Santa (Estero) There’s breakfast, music, crafts, games and a visit from Santa. • When: 9 a.m. to noon Saturday, December 15 • Where: North Fort Myers Community Park, 2000 N. Recreation Park Way, North Fort Myers • Cost: $3 per child • More details: 239-533-7200 or leegov.com/parks

Breakfast with Santa (Lehigh Acres) Families enjoy a continental-style breakfast, holiday crafts and a visit with Mr. and Mrs. Kringle. • When: 10 a.m. to noon Saturday, December 15 • Where: Veterans Community Park, 55 Homestead Road S., Lehigh Acres • Cost: $5 per child and $3 for any adults eating breakfast • More details: 239-369-1521 or leegov.com/parks

Holidays at the library The Lee County Public Libraries have more than 40 free holiday events for children and teens. Contact your local library for more information. • Details: leegov.com/library

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« cover story (continued)

COLLIER COUNTY Snowfest A full 100 tons of snow blanket the area by the Golden Gate Community Center during Snowfest. It takes 1,200 blocks of ice pushed through a chipper to transform it into this winter wonderland. There are areas to play in the white fluffy stuff and snow hills for tobogganing. The Polar Plunge is one of the largest inflatable slides around. Mrs. Claus’s Kitchen is packed with food vendors. There’s a Santa’s Workshop, a full-scale carnival, handson arts and crafts, petting zoo, pony rides and crafts. Organizers suggest bringing mittens or gloves, hats and even boots. • When: FWhen: 3 to 9 p.m. Saturday, December 1 • Where: Golden Gate Community Center, 4701 Golden Gate Parkway, Naples • Cost: $2 per person, free for ages 3 and younger • More details: 239252-4000 or snowfestnaples.com

Holiday on the Bay Snow, snow, beautiful snow. At this weekly event, enjoy the snow show, photos with Santa, stories with Mrs. Claus, Dickens period carolers, dance performances, shopping and dining. • When: 5 to 8 p.m. every Saturday before Christmas (snow show starts at 7 p.m.), 3 to 5 p.m. Sunday, December 23 and 2 to 5 p.m. Monday, December 24 (snow show at 4 p.m. December 24) • Where: The Village Shops on Venetian Bay, 4200 Gulf Shore Blvd. N., Naples • Cost: Free • More details: 239-961-6100 or venetianvillage.com

Christmas at Historic Palm Cottage All month long, the Palm Cottage is decorated for the holidays. Then the Naples Historical Society celebrates 10 days of Christmas with special events and free admission in the two weeks leading up to the holiday. Each day there’s a special 15-minute

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presentation, such as live Christmas music, how the Victrola works, the Christmas tree tradition, recipes from Christmas past, the Naples holiday back in the day and a reading of “’Twas the Night Before Christmas.” “We had a lot of people last year,” says Elaine Reed, president and CEO of the historical society. “The Victrola presentation was really a smash hit.” Reservations for tours are recommended. • When: Tuesday-Saturday now through December 29. House tours are noon to 4 p.m. TuesdayFriday and 1-4 p.m. Saturday. Special presentations are at 5 and 6 p.m. December 11-21 and 6 p.m. December 22. • Where: Historic Palm Cottage, 137 12th Ave. S., Naples • Cost: Free for members, $13 for nonmembers, then free December 11-22 • More details: 239-261-8164 or napleshistoricalsociety.org

is free, tickets for individual activities sold at the event. • More details: 239-252-4000 or collierparks.com

Christmas Walk & Tree Lighting This year marks the 45th annual tree lighting. Along with the lighting, there’s a festival with activities, music and a visit from Santa. • When: 5 to 8 p.m. Friday, December 7; tree is lit at 6:15 p.m. • Where: Festivities take place along Fifth Avenue South, from Ninth Street to Third Street South. The tree lighting is at Sugden Plaza (Santa will be there). • Cost: Free • More details: 239-692-8436 or naplesgov.com/ calendar

Treats with Santa Christmas Carnival Bet this isn’t a December tradition up north: a full-scale carnival. • When: December 6-9 (times coming soon) • Where: Max Hasse Community Park, 3390 Golden Gate Blvd. W., Naples • Cost: Admission

Kids decorate cookies and enjoy treats, crafts and photos with Santa. • When: 10 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Saturday, December 8 • Where: East Naples Community Park, 3500 Thomasson Drive, Naples • Cost: $5 • More details: 239-252-4414 or collierparks.com

Treats with Santa

cover story (continued) »

Naples Christmas Parade

Breakfast with Santa

Naples Christmas Parade

Tuba Christmas

The Golden Gate Kiwanis Club and community center staff provide a pancake breakfast. Bring a camera for photos with Santa. • When: 9:30 to 11 a.m. Saturday, December 8 • Where: Golden Gate Community Center, 4701 Golden Gate Parkway, Naples • Cost: $3 • More details: 239-252-4180 or collierparks.com

This parade of floats, bands and costumed characters lights up your night. • When: 6 to 8 p.m. Tuesday, December 11 • Where: The parade lines up on Broad Avenue, turns right onto Third Street South, then right on Fifth Ave South, and ends on Eighth Street South near Broad Avenue. • Cost: Free • More details: 239-2137120 or naplesgov.com

Tuba Christmas is a concert of holiday music played on big brass instruments. This is the 21st year for the event. • When: 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. Friday, December 14 • Where: Sugden Plaza, 701 Fifth Ave. S., Naples • Cost: Free • More details: 239-692-8436 or naplesgov.com/calendar

2018 Christmas Boots & Bling Parade & Gala There’s a lighted Christmas parade, tons of snow, a toboggan snow slide, Santa’s Workshop with arts and crafts, food from around the world, an air slide, bounce house, adult and teen games, kids’ games, live entertainment and more. • When: 5 to 10 p.m. Saturday, December 8 • Where: Immokalee Sports Complex, 505 Escambia St., Immokalee • Cost: $1 per person, free for children under 36 inches • More details: 239-657-0080 or colliercountyparks.com

Santa Paws Let the family pup enjoy the holiday festivities, too. People can have their dogs visit with Santa and take photos with the jolly old elf. The Humane Society of Naples will be there with adoptable pets. • When: 5 to 7 p.m. Thursday, December 13 • Where: The Village Shops on Venetian Bay (north side near the fountains), 4200 Gulf Shore Blvd. N., Naples • Cost: Free • More details: 239-961-6100 or venetianvillage.com

New Year’s Eve Fireworks Celebrate the New Year a little early with fireworks launched from a barge near the Naples City Pier. The city requests no dogs, personal fireworks, glass or open fires on the beach. You can also view the fireworks live online at naplespanorama.org. • When: 7:30 p.m. Monday, December 31 • Where: The best viewing sites are anywhere near the Naples Pier, 12th Avenue South, Naples. Parking is available in the Third Street South area. • Cost: Free • More details: 239-213-7120 or naplesgov.com/calendar

Holidays at the library

Collier County Public Libraries have many free holiday events for children and teens. Contact your local library for more information. • More details: collierlibrary.org

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« cover story (continued)

CHARLOTTE COUNTY Festival of Lights See more than a million lights and decorations under the theme of Traditional Christmas. “We will have many new decorations added to last year’s décor, but think red, green, gold, old fashioned Christmas, with a few surprises thrown in, as we always like to do,” says Kathy Burnam, marketing and events manager. There will also be visits with Santa, Christmas carolers and a variety of music. There will be a menorah lighting at

7 p.m. Saturday, December 8. • When: Festival of Lights runs 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday-Saturday, noon to 6 p.m. Sunday now through December 30 (10 a.m. to 5 p.m. December 24; Captain’s Table Restaurant is open regular hours December 25). • Where: Fishermen’s Village, 1200 W. Retta Esplanade, Punta Gorda • Cost: Free • More details: 941-639-8721 or fishville.com

Christmas Light Canal Cruise Seeing the lights and holiday decorations by water has been a tradition for more than 30 years. Cruise the canals of Punta Gorda aboard a vessel with the King Fisher Fleet. Reservations recommended. • Where: Leaves from Fishermen’s

Village Marina, 1200 W. Retta Esplanade, Punta Gorda • When: Departs 6, 7:30 and 9 p.m. December 1-31 • Cost: $20 for adults, $10 for ages 3-11, free for ages 2 and younger • More details: 941-6390969 or kingfisherfleet.com

Fishermen’s Village New Year’s Eve A family-friendly New Year’s Eve celebration, there’s music, dancing, face painting, hair glitter, LED juggling, plate spinning, balloon creations and fireworks at midnight. • When: 6 p.m. until fireworks at midnight, Monday, December 31 • Where: Fishermen’s Village, 1200 W. Retta Esplanade, Punta Gorda • Cost: Free • More details: 941-6398721 or fishville.com

BOAT PARADES Fort Myers Beach Christmas Boat Parade

The Village on Venetian Bay Boat Parade

Celebrating its 30th year, the parade is adding a new twist this year. “We are going to switch it up this year,” says Jacki Liszak, president and CEO of the Fort Myers Beach Chamber of Commerce. “We are going to have the boats judge the restaurants and homes, and the homes and restaurants will judge the boats. Even people standing on the bridges can go on Survey Monkey and vote for the best boat.” There’s a link to the survey on the boat parade website. • When: 6-8 p.m. Saturday, December 1 • Where: The parade begins at Salty Sam’s Marina and passes by Parrot Key Caribbean Grill, Matanzas on the Bay, Nervous Nellie’s, Doc Ford’s Rum Bar & Grille, Dixie Fish Co., the Original Shrimp Dock Bar & Grill and Bonita Bill’s Waterfront Cafe. The parade also runs past the Pink Shell Beach Resort & Marina and Moss Marina. • More details: 239-454-7500 or fortmyersbeach.org/events/christmasboat-parade

In addition to the boat parade, there’s live entertainment, a snow show, face painting, balloon art, holiday carolers, stories with Mrs. Claus and a visit from Santa. • When: 5 to 8 p.m. Tuesday, December 4; festivities begin at 5 p.m., boat parade at 6:30 p.m. • Where: The Village Shops on Venetian Bay, 4200 Gulf Shore Blvd. N., Naples • More details: 239-961-6100 or venetianvillage.com

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Bonita Springs Christmas Boat Parade This year, expect about 40 boats decorated in lights and holiday style parading up and down the Imperial River. “We keep on growing. Every year it gets better and better,” says organizer Adam Botana. “Every year we get more and more. More people are getting involved in it. A lot of people love it and are looking forward to it.”

• When: 5:30 p.m. Saturday, December 8 • Where: Begins and

ends at the Bay Water Boat Club, 5124 Bonita Beach Road, Bonita Springs. It goes up the Imperial River to Flossmoor Drive and back. The best place to see it is from the Imperial River Boat Ramp, 27551 S. Tamiami Trail, Bonita Spring, or from the U.S. 41 bridge. • More details: 239-4950455 or bonitaboatparade.com

Christmas Boat Parade on Naples Bay The theme of this year’s Marine Industries Association of Collier County boat parade is Cartoon Classics. “It should be a fun one,” says Tiffany Sawyer-Schank, executive director of the organization. “We are hoping they will bring in some old Mickey and some Disney characters and some Looney Tunes, something the kids will enjoy and bring back great memories of childhood.” The parade is free to enter. There are lots of prizes for the winners.

Fort Myers Beach Christmas Boat Parade

“We want to drum up some more people to get involved in the parade,” she says. • When: 6:15 p.m. Saturday, December 8 • Where:The parade may be viewed from Pinchers Crab Shack, Riverwalk Restaurant, Naples City Dock, Naples Landings, Kelly’s Fish House, The Boat House Restaurant and Bayview Park. All proceeds benefit the Ricky King Children’s Fund. • More details: 239-682-0900 or miacc.org

Cape Coral Holiday Boat-A-Long Cape Coral's 42nd annual Holiday Boat-a-Long features a parade of more than 100 decorated boats and a festival at Four Freedoms Park. Entertainment on the stage begins at 4 p.m. with holiday-themed

performances. There’s a tent for the kids with crafts. Santa visits before the parade. After the boat parade, the movie “Christmas Vacation” is shown on a big screen. “It seems to grow a little bit each year,” says Kristin Bean, senior recreation director for the city. “We are shooting for 110 boats this year.” There is free parking in downtown lots. Free shuttle available. • When: The festival begins at 4 p.m. Saturday, December 15. The boat parade starts at sundown, around 7 p.m. • Where: Four Freedom’s Park, 4818 Tarpon Court, Cape Coral. This is the best place to view the parade. The boats can also be seen at Bimini Basin where they line up before motoring through the canals of south Cape Coral. • More details: 239573-3123 or capeparks.org

The Saturday Night Before Christmas Eve Boat Parade This parade by the Punta Gorda Isles Civic Association attracts 15,000 to 20,000 spectators and is billed as the biggest annual event in the Isles. The 4.5-mile route is lined with people ringing cowbells and banging tambourines. “This is very different, because all the people are right there, 50 feet away,” says organizer Harris Bowers. About 35 to 50 boats participate in the event. “And you won’t see just a boat with a few lights on it. People really decorate around here,” Harris says. • When: 6 p.m. Saturday, December 22 • Where: Viewing from Yellowfish Lagoon, past Antigua Drive, Ponce Inlet around to Almar Drive. • More details: puntagordaboatparade.com

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« safety corner DEBOR A H COMELL A

Tips for a safe teen holiday party

oliday parties are great. We see friends, celebrate a special time of the year and enjoy lots of great seasonal snacks. This is a crucial time to continue your dialogue with your teens on your expectations regarding alcohol and drugs. Holidays can be particularly challenging for students returning from college. Having spent a few independent months in an environment that can be much more accepting of underage drinking, it is important to continue the discussion about the ramifications of underage and binge drinking, including drug abuse, teen sex and drunk driving. Hosting a party can offer an opportunity for a safe, supervised environment for your teen and their friends. Florida state law forbids serving alcohol to anyone under the age of 21, even in your own home. However, the advent of social media has really changed the parameters of party planning, especially for teens and young adults. A simple get-together, shared on a social media application, can become an event with hundreds of strangers. It’s easy to keep a holiday party safe. Here are some tips for hosting: » Have a clear discussion with the

teen “hosts” about expectations that include no alcohol or drugs. Discuss how the party will be supervised, start time and end time of the party, and the need for a guest list. » Have at least two adults present at all times and be visible — visit the party area often. » Have a list of approved guests. » Use one door in the house for entry and exit — do not allow re-entry after someone leaves. » Keep a close eye on backpacks, large purses and bags. If your child has been invited to a party, you will want to find out who is hosting the party so that you can call

Deborah Comella is the executive director of the Lee County Coalition for a Drug-Free Southwest Florida and a member of the Tobacco Free Lee Coalition.

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them and find out how the party will be supervised. You will also want to discuss how the hosts plan to keep the party free of alcohol and drugs. Here are some questions for your teen: » Where is the party, and when does it begin and end? » Who is attending? Older teens? College students? » Will party-goers be able to come and go at will? » What are the party rules? » Discuss transportation plans — the best idea is for you, or another trusted adult, to drive the teen to and from the party. If for some reason this doesn’t work, remind your teen that it is NEVER acceptable to ride with a driver who has been drinking or using other drugs. » Agree on a “secret code” that can be used if your teen becomes uncomfortable during the party — some parents just use the code “X” texted to them. Parents can then call the teen and make an excuse that they need to come home — effectively removing them safely from the situation without any blame coming onto the teen. Parents need to be comfortable responding to this simply and not always using this as a teachable moment — we just want our kids home safely. The holidays are a time for families and gratitude. Make sure your teen knows how important they are in your life — and take time to talk.

Safe Kids is a nonprofit coalition of agencies and organizations dedicated to eliminating preventable childhood injuries. Visit safekidsswfl.org.

family album »

Art buddies » Ryan Hunter, 7, a first-grader from Naples Christian Academy, hugs Ann Rellas goodbye after an art buddies program November 1 at Vi at Bentley Village’s skilled nursing facility in Naples. Photo by Alex Driehaus

Pumpkin power » HM.Clause, a global seed company with a research station in Immokalee, created a temporary pumpkin patch at the Guadalupe Center in Immokalee so students in the early childhood education program could learn about the life cycle of fall’s favorite fruit. The company also donated soil and vegetable plants to expand the children’s garden at the center. Clockwise from far left: • Noah Mendoza, Aryah Ramirez and Elena Vinton. • Chenya Chevery and Jenesis Ozuna. • Jordany Loccident. Photos special to SW FL Parent & Child

SOUTHWEST FLORIDA PARENT & CHILD » DECEMBER 2018 » 45

» family album

Heavenly holidays » Giuliana Gehring thoroughly enjoyed the pumpkin

patch at Heavenly Evergreens on Immokalee Road in Naples, where there are photo opps galore, a gem mine, and pumpkins and Christmas trees for sale. Photo special to SW FL Parent & Child

Boss’s Day at C’mon »

In lieu of gifts for National Boss’s Day, October 16, the staff at Preferred Travel of Naples pulled together more than $400 in donations to sponsor 17 children from Immokalee to enjoy a day at the Golisano Children’s Museum of Naples, also known as C’mon. The outing was arranged through the First Assembly Ministries of Immokalee. Photo special to SW FL Parent & Child

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Sleepy bee »

Busy little bee Abigail Zuñiga created a buzz at Lady In Pink Photography in October. Photo by Lady In Pink Photography

Good cop » David Lopez, about 8 months

old, of Cape Coral, gets into the Halloween spirit with Mom and Dad. Photo submitted by mom Amanda Carter

In appreciation » Brothers Grayson Conway, 11, and Briggs Conway, 7, of Cape Coral,

stopped by the guide dog booth early in the morning to love on some puppies during the seventh annual Military Appreciation Day on November 3 at First Christian Church on McGregor Boulevard in Fort Myers.

SOUTHWEST FLORIDA PARENT & CHILD » DECEMBER 2018 » 47

» family album

Send Us Your Snapshots Send your images with a brief description and names of the people in them to editor@ swflparentchild.com

American Girl » Aaliyah Dozier visits the American Girl store in Miami. Photo special to SW FL Parent & Child

Super yum! » Kassidie Harkenrider takes a bite of Oreo doughnuts from Coasting Donuts at Taste of Lee

on November 3 at Centennial Park in Fort Myers. Patrons got to sample many dishes from local restaurants and food trucks at the event, and the liquor proceeds benefit Making Strides Against Breast Cancer. Photo by Amanda Inscore

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travel »

GETTY IMAGES

Backcountry skiers leave their mark in Grand Teton National Park.

Dreaming OF A

WHITE CHRISTMAS Head west to Wyoming for snow-packed family adventure. STORY BY JENNIFER THOMAS

f it’s snow you seek, go west. A winter wonderland awaits in Jackson Hole, Wyoming, complete with snow, skiing, wildlife, two national parks and wintertime activities for the entire family. “Jackson Hole is a winter wonderland with snow in the valley and surrounding peaks,” says Kate Sollitt, executive director of the Jackson Hole Travel & Tourism Board. One of the region’s resorts — the Jackson Hole Moun-

tain Resort — touts that the region has had some of the deepest snowpack in the country over the last few years. Last year, the season ended with 502 inches of total snow. Kate recommends families spend time in the Jackson Town Square under the iconic antler arches and shop at the local boutiques. It’s a place Fort Myers resident Emily Denk knows well. She traveled to this destination last year on a winter holiday with her husband, Peter, and some friends.

SOUTHWEST FLORIDA PARENT & CHILD » DECEMBER 2018 » 49

“Jackson Hole is a really cute little town surrounded by the beautiful Teton mountains. The views were incredible everywhere that we went,” Emily says. “The people were all very nice and extremely welcoming to out-of-towners. The downtown area was very quaint but had very high-end shopping.” There’s also a lot here for families to embrace. For AJ Duda, 14, of Cape Coral, it’s skiing. It’s his favorite thing to do when visiting Jackson. “There is great snow and lots of different runs depending on level of skill and gondolas,” AJ says. “Be sure to take the Bridger Gondola and traverse over to the Casper Quad chair, and there are lots of great blue runs and no lift lines.” There are three ski resorts here. “The town hill called Snow King is convenient and offers a tube park and

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night skiing,” Kate says. “Jackson Hole Mountain Resort is located in Teton Village and offers the most terrain and variety and is launching the new family center called the Solitude Station that is entirely dedicated to kids and adults learning and growing at JHMR, and Grand Targhee Resort is known for its abundant powder.” Solitude Station is new this season. It’s a two-minute gondola ride from the base area and has an expansive lodge that’s geared toward ages 7 and older, families and adult group lessons. Snowboarding was at the top of the list for Emily and her friends. “They had excellent lessons for beginners that I took and also had plenty of runs to keep my advanced friends busy,” she says. “All of the resources on the mountain were very helpful and people and instructors were very nice.”

Even as an experienced young skier, AJ recommends taking lessons before hitting the slopes. “The experienced guides introduce you to the runs and terrain,” he explains. “Their knowledge gives you confidence for when you ski by yourself.” Beyond skiing, Jackson Hole is an ideal winter destination. “It allows you to enjoy the great outdoors with your family with activities including Alpine and Nordic skiing, wildlife tours in Grand Teton National Park, ice skating at a variety of outdoor rinks and more,” Kate says. “Additionally, it is easy to get to with 12 nonstop flights from major airport hubs around the country.” One of those hubs is Atlanta, which is easily accessed with a quick flight from Southwest Florida. In addition to accessibility, the

GETTY IMAGES

Middle Teton, Grand Teton National Park

travel (continued) »

AJ Duda

PHOTOS PROVIDED BY DUDA FAMILY

Ali Duda

Jackson Hole valley is the gateway to Grand Teton National Park and only 50 miles from the southern entrance to Yellowstone National Park. “Take a snowshoe tour in Grand Teton National Park or a guided snowmobile tour to Granite Hot Springs,” Kate recommends. Emily says she appreciated that wildlife adventures were a short trip away in the national park. “One afternoon we went to the Grand Teton National Park to take some nice photos in the snow and tried to catch a glimpse of any moose or elk. Unfortunately, no animals were out that day, but we heard that there are frequent wildlife sightings there,” Emily says. “I would say the absolute can’tmiss thing in Jackson Hole would be to go to the Grand Teton National Park at least once. I know not everyone is a

skier or snowboarder, but everyone can appreciate the stunning views of the Teton mountains no matter what time of year.” The Dudas have traveled to Jackson Hole five times and mom Rebecca Duda says they’ve seen a lot of wildlife there. “We have witnessed bison, elk, mule deer, big horn sheep, fox, trumpeter swans, bobcat and moose,” she says. When traveling to Jackson Hole, Rebecca recommends guests also take the Elk Refuge Sleigh Ride, Yellowstone Snowcat or snowmobile guided tour. “For our family, it is all about the snow and the skiing, but we truly enjoy the opportunity to take animal photography and experience the local dining,” Rebecca says. “We just love how the location is surrounded by snow-covered rugged peaks of the Tetons, complete with a small town feel.”

Large elk antler arches curve over Jackson Town Square’s four corner entrances. The antlers have been there since the early 1960s, and new arches are currently assembled to replace them.

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« around town

Red-nosed reindeer coming to town The most famous reindeer of all is touring the continent and making a stop in Southwest Florida at Hertz Arena in Estero. “Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer: The Musical” takes the stage at 7 p.m. Friday, December 21 at Hertz Arena. He’s even bringing the 12-foot-plus Abominable Snow Monster. Tickets are $24.40 to $54.50, plus $10 for parking. If you miss that date, the show goes on to Sarasota the next day at the Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall. Get details at rudolphthemusical.com and hertzarena.com.

Take in a Broadway show — in Naples Sometimes Broadway comes to Southwest Florida, and you'll want to take advantage of the opportunity. The award-winning “The Sound of Music” takes the stage in Hayes Hall at Artis—Naples this month, December 26-29. Shows are 8 p.m. each day with 2 p.m. matinees Thursday through Saturday, December 27-29. Tickets are $80-$135. Get details at artisnaples.org.

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Spend a Saturday at the ARTCade Here’s a chance to get inspired and get creative with your kids — and it’s free. On select Saturday mornings at the Alliance for the Arts in Fort Myers, families can browse the three art galleries, where they’re sure to be inspired, and then participate in related visual arts projects, games and creative activities. While you’re there, check out the GreenMarket, open 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. every Saturday. The next ARTCade is 10 a.m. to noon Saturday, December 15. Additional dates: February 16 and April 20. For details, call 239-939-2787 or visit artinlee.org.

calendar »

PRESCHOOL & VPK

Saturday, Dec. 1 Babcock Holiday Event » 6-9 p.m. Founder’s Square at Babcock Ranch, 42851 Crescent Loop, Babcock Ranch. Treelighting, live performances, Whispering Pines Clydesdales, photos with Santa and crafts. Free admission; $5 wristband includes photo with Santa, a Santa hat and popcorn (purchase online). babcockranch.com/event/holidayevent C’mon Jingle Bell Dash Bash » 6-8 p.m. Golisano Children’s Museum of Naples, 15080 Livingston Road, Naples. Tree lighting, activities, snacks, appearances by Santa and Mrs. Claus and a few winter surprises. $10 for members, $20 for nonmembers. cmon.org Great Outdoor Adventure Day » 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Lovers Key State Park, 8700 Estero Blvd. Fort Myers Beach. Children’s activities and ranger-led programs, including guided kayak tours, walking nature tours, bike tours (bike and helmets provided), fishing clinics and paddleboarding clinics for all ages. Included with regular park entrance of $8 per vehicle of up to eight people. Guided Kayak tours are $10 per person, kayak rental included. floridastateparks.org/events/greatoutdoor-adventure-day-2018 Holiday Festival of Lights » 4-10 p.m. Along Cape Coral Parkway in downtown Cape Coral. Free. Visit Santa in Christmas Town Center, sled down Snowcap Square, plus enjoy the tree lighting, Tiny Tot Train, inflatables and more. holidayfestivalcc.com

DANCE

Celebrating Since 1951

All Ages

Classical Ballet Pointe Tap Jazz Hip Hop Modern Acrobatics Children’s Work

(239)334-3274 www.dancebochette.com NEWBORN CARE

LIFEwalk 2018 » 8-11 a.m. Jaycee Park, 4125 S.E. 20th Place, Cape Coral. Benefits Lifeline Family Center, a maternity home and rehabilitation center for homeless pregnant young women, moms and babies. Refreshments, face painting and activities for the kids. lifewalklfc.org Santa is Coming » 10 a.m.-noon. Shell Factory & Nature Park, 2787 N. Tamiami Trail, North Fort Myers. Visit Santa for free December 1-2, 8, 15-16 and 22-23. Get one free child admission to the nature park with paid adult admission. 239995-2141. shellfactory.com “The Nutcracker” » 2 and 7 p.m. Barbara B. Mann Performing Arts Hall, 13350 FSW Parkway, Fort Myers. Gulfshore Ballet and Gulf Coast Symphony present Tchaikovsky’s holiday classic. Tickets are $29-$85.

Sunday, Dec. 2 Sweets with Santa » 1-3 p.m. Hilton Naples, 5111 Tamiami Trail N., Naples. $75 for adults, $50 for ages 10 and younger. Santa visits and photos, plus a cookie decorating station, holiday crafts, activity tables and a hot chocolate bar.

Tuesday, Dec. 4 Breastfeeding Class » 6:30-8:30 pm. The Family Birth Center of Naples, 2930 Immokalee Road, Suite 2, Naples. Learn how to successfully breastfeed, use breast pumps and transition to returning to work. 239-594-0400. naplesbirthcenter.com. Christmas Carol Sing Along » 7:30 p.m. St. Peter Lutheran Church, 3751 Estero Blvd., Fort Myers Beach. Features the Gospel Choir from the Church of God of Prophesy, Lehigh Acres, and Tropical Storm men’s quartet. Free admission. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. Refreshments follow.

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« calendar Wednesday, Dec. 5 S.A.F.E. Girls » 6 p.m. Lee County Sheriff’s Office, 14750 6 Mile Cypress Parkway Fort Myers, FL. $5. A two-hour self-defense awareness class for women and girls. It includes one hour of safety information and one hour of practical activities. Ages 13-17 must be accompanied by mom or an adult female guardian. It’s recommended that attendees arrive 15-20 minutes early. Ticket required. 239-258-3280 or CommunityRelations@SheriffLeeFL.org. sheriffleefl.org “The Wizard of Oz” » 7:30 p.m. December 5 and 6. Barbara B. Mann Performing Arts Hall, 13350 FSW Parkway, Fort Myers. Tickets are $30-$65. This production is a celebration of the 1939 MGM movie. 239-481-4849. bbmannpah.com or wizardofoztour.com

Thursday, Dec. 6

Christmas Cookie Decorating » Noon-2 p.m. Miromar Outlets, 10801 Corkscrew Road, Estero. Kids can stop by the WARO-FM 94.5 cookie decorating station for a special holiday treat to make and eat. Endless Trails Holiday Mini Horses » Noon-2 p.m. Miromar Outlets, 10801 Corkscrew Road, Estero. Keep an eye out for the holiday mini horses roaming the mall and handing out candy canes to everyone on Santa’s Nice List. Golden Gate Community Park Christmas 5K » 7 a.m.1 p.m. Golden Gate Community Park, 3300 Santa Barbara Blvd., Naples. $10. Participants are encouraged to dress up in Christmas outfits for a chance to win prizes. Check in begins at 7 a.m. Race starts at 8. Holiday on the Bay » 5-8 p.m. each Saturday before Christmas. The Village Shops on Venetian Bay, 4200 Gulf Shore Blvd. N., Naples. Details on page 40. venetianvillage.com

Christmas Carnival » December 6-9. Max Hasse Community Park, 3390 Golden Gate Blvd. W., Naples. Free admission, tickets for activities. 239-252-4000. collierparks.com

KidzAct presents “Annie Jr.” » Noon. Sugden Community Theatre, 701 Fifth Ave. S., Naples. $20. The Naples Players’ KidzAct presents “Annie Jr.” with pluck and positivity. 239263-7990. naplesplayers.org

Friday, Dec. 7

Menorah Lighting » 7 p.m. Fishermen’s Village, 1200 W. Retta Esplanade, Punta Gorda. Coincides with the Village’s Festival of Lights. Free. 941-639-8721. fishville.com

45th Annual Christmas Walk and Tree Lighting Ceremony » 5-8 p.m. Fifth Avenue South in Naples. Live music, food, live nativity and lighting of the tree with snow. 239-692-8436 or naplesgov.com/calendar First Friday Art Night » 7-9:30 p.m. Norris Center, 755 Eighth Ave. S., Naples. Every month (October-May) learn a new art form and take home your masterpiece. For ages 8 or older. $35. December 7: Egg ornament. January 4: Year of the Pig painting. Registration required. 239-213-3058. Naples Live Nativity » 6-8 p.m. December 7-9. Seagate Baptist Church, 1010 Whippoorwill Lane, Naples. Live nativity with live animals, refreshments, re-enactment, carols and a gift for each family. Free. 239-261-0122. seagatebaptist.com Night Lights in the Garden » 6-9 p.m. December 7-23, 2630 and January 1-3. Naples Botanical Garden, 4820 Bayshore Drive, Naples. Thousands of lights illuminate the gardens for the holidays. Plus, live music and gourmet treats. Admission December 7-14 is $10 for members, $20 for nonmembers, $5 and $10 for ages 4-14. After December 14, admission is $25 for nonmember adults, $15 for nonmember children. Free for ages 3 and younger (ticket required). Purchase tickets prior to your visit. 239-643-7275. naplesgarden.org Pajama Storytime and Activities featuring “The Polar Express” » 7 p.m. Barnes & Noble, 13751 Tamiami Trail, south Fort Myers, and at Coconut Point, 23130 Fashion Drive, Estero. Enjoy a story and get free hot chocolate and a cookie. Don’t forget to wear your favorite cozy pajamas.

Saturday, Dec. 8 Bonita Springs Christmas Boat Parade » 5:30 p.m. Begins at the Bay Water Boat Club, 5124 Bonita Beach Road, Bonita Springs, and goes up the Imperial River to Flossmoor Drive and back. 239-495-0455. bonitaboatparade.com Breakfast with Santa » 9:30-11 a.m. Golden Gate Community Center, 4701 Golden Gate Parkway, Naples. $3. 239-252-4180. collierparks.com

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Pictures with Santa » 3-6 p.m. Palm City Brewing, 7887 Drew Circle, Suite 130, Fort Myers. Enjoy a cold beer while your kids tell Santa everything on their wish list. There are activities for the kids while they wait, and Cajun Gringo’s will have kid-friendly menu options. Tickets available on Eventbrite. Treats with Santa » 10 a.m.-2:30 p.m. East Naples Community Park, 3500 Thomasson Drive, Naples. $5. Details on page 40. 239-252-4414. collierparks.com

Sunday, Dec. 9 Santa on the Sand » 1-4 p.m. Lovers Key State Park, 8700 Estero Blvd., Fort Myers Beach. Snacks, crafts, games and pictures with Santa. Space is limited to 100 children ages 8 and younger, and each child must bring one unwrapped toy that will be donated to less fortunate children in the community. Admission is $8 for up to 8 passengers in a car. The Harlem Globetrotters » 4 p.m. Hertz Arena, 11000 Everblades Parkway, Estero. See exceptional ball handlers and Guinness World Record holders. Tickets: $26.50-$127.50. Parking: $10. hertzarena.com

Tuesday, Dec. 11 Christmas Carol Sing » 1, 4 and 7 p.m. First Presbyterian Church, 2438 Second St., Fort Myers. Celebrate the holidays with song and help feed the hungry. Free admission; donation of at least two nonperishable food items requested for The Soup Kitchen. Doors open 30 minutes prior to show time. 239-334-2261. fpcfortmyers.org Home School Nature and Science Program » 1-2:30 p.m. Rotary Park, 5505 Rose Garden Road, Cape Coral. Learn about the nature and natural history of Florida and make a related craft. Shoes and clothes appropriate for outdoor exploration required. For ages 4-15. $5 per child. 239-549-4606. Naples Christmas Parade » 6-8 p.m. Downtown Naples. Details on page 41. 239-213-7120 or naplesgov.com

calendar » Thursday, Dec. 13 Second Thursdays: Blue CanTEEN Food Truck » 5-7 p.m. The Wine Store, 1200 Central Ave., Naples. The Boys & Girls Club of Collier County’s Blue CanTEEN Food Truck brings food prepared by Chef Geoff Novins and his team of Club teens every month on the second Thursday. $25 includes wine and choice of entrée. Benefits the BGCCC.

Friday, Dec. 14 Night in Bethlehem » 6-8 p.m. December 14-15. North Naples Church, 6000 Goodlette Road N., Naples. Walk through the marketplace to taste, see, touch, smell and hear what a night in Bethlehem would have been like in the time of Jesus. Features music, a living nativity with live animals and more. Free. northnapleschurch.org North Fort Myers Academy for the Arts presents “The Nutcracker” » 7 p.m. Barbara B. Mann Performing Arts Hall, 13350 FSW Parkway, south Fort Myers. The academy is known for its annual holiday production of this holiday classic. Tickets are $8-$38. 239-481-4849. bbmannpah.com Photos with Santa and Mrs. Claus » Through December 23. Miromar Outlets, 10801 Corkscrew Road, Estero. Free photo with Santa and, on weekends, Mrs. Claus. Hours: 4-8 p.m. Monday-Friday, 11 a.m.-7 p.m. Saturday, noon-6 p.m. Sunday.

Eighth Ave. S., Naples. Enjoy humor and science with Mr. Glen and Super Science & Amazing Art. $10 for adults, $5 for children. naplesgov.com Naples Christmas Glow Run 5K » 5:30 p.m. Sugden Regional Park, 4284 Avalon Drive, Naples. Run around Lake Avalon at night with everyone all aglow. $39 in advance, $45 race day. Family discounts available. eliteevents.org

Sunday, Dec. 16 “The Songs of Christmas Around the World” » 7-9 p.m. All Faiths Unitarian Congregation, 2756 McGregor Blvd., Fort Myers. $20 at the door, $15 in advance. The Southwest Florida Gay and Lesbian Chorus performs. gaychorus.org

Tuesday, Dec. 18 Movies on the Lawn: “The Polar Express” » 5:45-7:45 p.m. Mercato, 9118 Strada Place, Naples. Bring the family, lawn chairs, blankets and well-behaved pets for a movie under the stars. No coolers; food, adult beverages and soft drinks available for purchase, provided by Naples Flatbread.

Thursday, Dec. 20

Tuba Christmas » 6:30-7:30 p.m. Sugden Plaza, 701 Fifth Ave. S., Naples. Free concert. 239-692-8436. naplesgov.com

“Getting to Know You” Club Tour & Lunch » Noon. Boys & Girls Club of Collier County, 7500 Davis Blvd., Naples. Take a tour, enjoy lunch and get to know the Boys & Girls Club of Collier County, which has programs that help thousands of Collier County children and teens do well in school, choose healthy lifestyles and become great leaders. The lunches are held every third Thursday in season.

Saturday, Dec. 15

Friday, Dec. 21

Story Time with Mrs. Claus » 11:15 a.m.-noon. Four Freedoms Park, 4818 Tarpon Court, Cape Coral. Ages 2-3 enjoy finger plays, singing, a craft and a story with Mrs. Claus. Parent must attend with child. Bring a camera. 239-574-0804.

ARTCade » 10 a.m.-noon. Alliance for the Arts, 10091 McGregor Blvd., Fort Myers. Explore the latest exhibits and participate in an art project, games and other creative activities. Free. 239-939-2787. artinlee.org

Free Barrier Island Guided Walks » 9-10:30 a.m. Fridays, December 21-April 26. Bowditch Point Regional Park, 50 Estero Blvd., Fort Myers Beach. Parking is $2 per hour.

Breakfast with Santa » 9 a.m.-noon. North Fort Myers Community Park, 2000 N. Recreation Park Way, North Fort Myers. $3. 239-533-7200. leegov.com/parks

“Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer: The Musical” » 7 p.m. Hertz Arena, 11000 Everblades Parkway, Estero. $24.40$54.50 for tickets, $10 for parking. rudolphthemusical.com and hertzarena.com

Breakfast with Santa » 10 a.m.-noon. Veterans Community Park, 55 Homestead Road S., Lehigh Acres. $5 for children, $3 for adults eating breakfast. 239-369-1521 or leegov.com/parks

Saturday, Dec. 22

December Fun Time » 9 a.m.-noon. Four Freedoms Park, 4818 Tarpon Court, Cape Coral. $20 for residents, $30 for nonresidents. Ages 3-5 make games and crafts. Snack provided. 239-574-0804. Girls on the Run Southwest Florida 5K » 7:45 a.m. Community School of Naples, 13275 Livingston Road, Naples. Join more than 400 third-grade girls from 40 schools as they “graduate” from their fall after-school 5K training and life skills program, Girls on the Run. The race is open to the public. Kids Sprint starts at 7:45 a.m. 5K starts at 8 a.m. Kids Sprint is $5, 5K is $35 for adults, $20 for students 18 and younger (discounts available for advance purchase). gotrswfl.org Holiday Boat-a-long » 4 p.m. Four Freedoms Park, 4818 Tarpon Court, Cape Coral. Details on page 43. capeparks.org Holiday Science Spectacular » 3 p.m. Norris Center, 755

“The Nutcracker” » 7:30 p.m. Artis–Naples, 5833 Pelican Bay Blvd. Naples. The Naples Ballet and Naples Philharmonic perform this holiday classic. Tickets start at $19. artisnaples. org/events/nutcracker-naples-ballet-2018 The Saturday Night Before Christmas Eve Boat Parade » 6 p.m. See page 43 for details. puntagordaboatparade.com

Monday, Dec. 24 Christmas Eve Dolphin & Wildlife Cruises » 10 a.m. and 4:45 p.m. Adventures in Paradise, Inc., 14341 Port Comfort Road, Fort Myers. One cruise departs at 10 a.m. to find Santa on a deserted island (he has presents!). Tickets are $35 for children, $45 for adults. At 4:45 p.m. revelers go on a Christmas Eve Sunset Cruise with cookies and eggnog. Tickets are $39. 239-472-8443. adventuresinparadise.com

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« calendar Wednesday, Dec. 26 “The Sound of Music” » December 26-29. Artis–Naples, 5833 Pelican Bay Blvd. Naples. Shows are 8 p.m. December 26-29 with matinees at 2 p.m. December 27-29. Tickets are $80-$135. artisnaples.org

Winter break camps Some venues provide day camps for kids over winter break. We’ll include several at swflparentchild.com. (If you have a camp, click “Submit event” to add your program.)

Friday, Dec. 28 Moscow Ballet’s “Great Russian Nutcracker” » 3 and 7 p.m. Barbara B. Mann Performing Arts Hall, 13350 FSW Parkway, Fort Myers. $31.68-$74.08 ($110.12-$187.50 VIP). nutcracker.com or bbmannpah.com

Saturday, Dec. 29 SWFL Teen Expo » 6 p.m. Sidney & Berne Davis Art Center, 2301 First St., Fort Myers. $10. Features DJ sets from teens (starting at 7 p.m.), food, raffles, vendors displaying local programming for teens, events and activities. Parent lounge available. 239-333-1933. sbdac.com

Monday, Dec. 31 Family Friendly New Year’s Eve Celebration » 6 p.m.midnight. Fishermen’s Village, 1200 W. Retta Esplanade, Punta Gorda. Music, dancing, face painting, hair glitter, LED juggling, plate spinning, balloon creations. Fireworks at midnight (viewed from west dock). Free. 941-639-8721. fishville.com

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New Year’s Eve Fireworks » 7:30 p.m. Naples City Pier, 12th Avenue South, Naples. Free. 239-213-7120. naplesgov.com

Wednesday, Jan. 2 Guided Historic Tours » 10-11:30 a.m. Koreshan State Park, 3800 Corkscrew Road, Estero. $5 for ages 13 and older, with paid park admission ($5 for 2-8 occupant vehicle). Tours are at 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. Wednesday-Sunday through March, then 10 a.m. Saturday and Sunday, April-December. 239-992-0311.

Tuesday, Jan. 8 Student Shadow Day » 8 a.m.-3:15 p.m. The Village School of Naples, 6000 Goodlette Road, Naples. Students from kindergarten to 11th grade are invited to see what it means to be a TVS Knight. It’s an opportunity to experience the school’s classrooms and social environment. Lunch included. The next Student Shadow Day is March 26.

Alexandra Evans, of Naples, runs Evans Events with her husband and illusionist Joey Evans. Learn more about them at evansflorida.com or impossiblyfunny.com.

voices »

GUEST COLUMNIST

A party to remember I The ultimate surprise unfolds in an unexpected way.

wanted to take the time to share a story that all parents will enjoy. It was more than just an experience that happened to us, it was something that we will never forget. First off, let me say my husband is a full-time illusionist (Joey Evans). In addition to performing at companies such as Microsoft and Oracle, he also does private events here in Southwest Florida. Being an illusionist, of course, he had to begin as a magician, and this involved performing for children. This is something he still loves, however, unfortunately, our show and travel schedule doesn’t allow us to do as many birthday parties as we use to. When we can do them, we always enjoy them. We had a birthday party recently that is going to stick with us for a very long time. The girl was 6 years old, and the party theme was princesses, just like you would assume it would be. We arrived 30 minutes before we were to perform, and she greeted us at the door in her Cinderella dress. Decorations were everywhere, games and a beautiful castle cake. There were no guests yet, although the party started a half hour previously. The mother told us they had only moved down a couple of months ago, but she really wanted a party. The girl handed out invitations to all her classmates, but nobody came. Her mother

asked us if it would be OK if we started a little late to see if people would show up, as her daughter insisted they were just running behind. As this was our only event that day, we didn’t have a problem waiting. The little princess sat at the table near the door in her beautiful dress, watching it, waiting for the doorbell to ring. An hour after the start of the party, when we were supposed to begin, we sat at the table with her as she watched the door talking about her cat and whatever came to her mind at the moment. That’s when something amazing happened. Her brother, who up until then was a typical 17-year-old, listening to his iPod while texting his friends, did something amazing. She was talking to Joey and me, and he walked up to her and said, “It’s a party; no one is ever on time. Don’t worry about it.” Walking into the kitchen, he then sat down and texted and called every one of his friends. Within 15 minutes the first

person showed up, an 18-year-old girl dressed to the hilt with a gift in her hand. She handed it to the girl, saying “Happy birthday.” Friend after friend of her brother showed up. Some had stopped to get gifts, some came around back and got gifts from the parents to carry through the door. Two hours after the start of the party and an hour after we were supposed to start, the house was filled with presents and close to 20 guests, each one between 16 and 18 years old treating the birthday girl like she was the queen of the world. She was so excited about everything, and we started our performance. Normally, we leave immediately after our show, but this time we hung around for cake and games. This was a party that we didn’t want to miss. It really was amazing to see these juniors and seniors forget about everything else to play games like Pin the Crown on the Princess. She had an audience as she opened each gift, and the smile on the princess was something I’ll remember for a long time. You hear so many stories about people doing the wrong thing, but sometimes you see people go above and beyond to do something that touches you. Thomas Paine once wrote, “These are the times that try men’s souls.” No doubt, but Thomas, there are times like these that refuel them.

SOUTHWEST FLORIDA PARENT & CHILD » DECEMBER 2018 » 57

» a father’s view

Jim Dwyer is a Southwest Florida father of three boys.

JIM DW Y ER

What’s old is new I

have seen a lot of change in my life. Historical change, societal change, technological change, it is the single constant in life. Our kids growing up in today’s time have different opportunities, different challenges, different tools, different customs than we did. And our nature tells us that those things that moved and shaped us in our formidable years are all that is good and right. We long for those things to remain and nostalgically look back as if there is some inherent good in them. “Turn that garbage down! You can even call that music?” — My dad, circa 1980, as I was listening to Aerosmith belt out “Toys in the Attic.” Oh, how he hated that music. He thought it was just noise. I will admit that the music of his time was certainly more melodic, and I am just as certain that “his” rock ’n’ roll was not appreciated by his parents, who listened to opera and jazz. Things change, but at its core, music is storytelling, whether composed as an opera or written for the

58 » DECEMBER 2018 » SWFLPARENTCHILD.COM

screeches of Steven Tyler. I will admit freely that I can’t stand the music my kids listen to. I have said those same words my dad said to me, to no avail. My kids like what they like, and no amount of influence by me will have them abandon it. I maintain that it is garbage, but storytelling is storytelling. The medium may be flawed in my mind, but is there a pearl of truth and, dare I say, beauty in the music? There is, and that is why it moves my kids the way the music of my youth still moves me today. Communication has certainly changed dramatically. My parents literally needed an operator to connect calls for them. My youth saw the transition from dial phones to touchtone, and every kitchen had one on the wall. And of course, today we have the ubiquity of wireless phones in everyone’s pocket. We also moved from voice to text. The kids have never really used voice calls as their main communication. Text was king, and then it slid into a variety of social media and messaging apps on the mobile. Today, my children are constantly consuming entertainment on their devices or communicating with friends on messaging or social media. I am often dismayed at them staring at their device. What a waste to spend all that time watching videos on your phone. Why are the kids texting with people they are sitting next to? Can’t they just speak to

one another? I have had the conversations with people about how kids these days won’t know how to communicate with live people in the real world. But that is simply bunk. Sure, I want them more present with those actually in front of them, but I have seen them together with friends and they still know how to talk and laugh and love each other IRL. And how they communicate as adults will certainly change as well. Whether it is music, entertainment or communications, rather than continue to romanticize my youth, I am trying to understand my kids. At the core, they are doing the same things I did. They are learning who they are and what drives them and dealing with their hopes and fears in their own way in their own time. The medium doesn’t much matter. Discovering what moves them, building friendships, learning and growing is all that should matter. So I am just trying to tone down the cranky dad, and turn up their horrible music.

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