Issuu

Gratitude in Paradise

In this season of gratitude, we often find ourselves reflecting on the many blessings in our lives. Thanksgiving encourages us to slow down, embrace the present, and appreciate the people and moments that bring us joy.

This month, I’ve been especially grateful for the small, everyday moments that make life beautiful: the laughter of loved ones, quiet mornings with a cup of coffee, and the chance to be part of such a vibrant community here in Naples

Our November issue is dedicated to stories of gathering, giving back, and celebrating the people and organizations that make Naples such a special place. We’re endlessly thankful for our advertising partners, whose support allows us to bring inspiring stories to your doorstep each month, and for the readers who make it all worthwhile.

As we prepare to gather with loved ones, let’s take a moment to reflect on what truly brings meaning to our lives. This holiday season, may we find contentment not in possessions or accolades but in the connections we nurture and the good we do for others.

Wishing you and your family a season of gratitude and grace,

November 2025

PUBLISHER

Gregory Dodge | Gregory.Dodge@citylifestyle.com

EDITORIAL COORDINATOR

Lauren Rossi | lauren.rossi@citylifestyle.com

STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER

Samantha Bloom | ohsnapnaples@gmail.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITER

Lauren Rossi

Corporate Team

CEO Steven Schowengerdt

President Matthew Perry

COO David Stetler

CRO Jamie Pentz

CoS Janeane Thompson

AD DESIGNER Zach Miller

LAYOUT DESIGNER Antanette Ray

QUALITY

MASTER INJECTORS

The Ultimate Glow

Confidence that’s medicine. Beauty that heals

Physician-Led Beauty, Wellness & Regenerative Medicine in Naples

At Kenzi MedSpa & Wellness Center, we go beyond the surface. Led by Dr. Aldene McKenzie, a board-certified physician and aesthetic expert, our care blends science, soul, and modern medicine to help you look younger, feel lighter, and rise within.

Trusted by hundreds of Naples clients seeking whole-body wellness.

This is not just a MedSpa — it's your sanctuary for total rejuvenation.

Signature Services:

• RF Microneedling + Scar Revision

• Noninvasive Face & Body Sculpting

• Physician Supervised Weight Loss and Longevity

• Medical Wellness Gym (FDA-cleared laser lipo EMS muscle activation, RF and Pulsed Electromagnetic fields)

1-4: October Launch Party, Lamborghini Naples 5: Paul Hiltz and Jim Mahon, Naples Pier Beach 6-7: Wellness Triathlon, 3rd Saturday Monthly

Our multi-specialty dental office focuses on both the health of your teeth and gums as well as skin aesthetics. Our doctors, med spa providers and on-staff ceramic and acrylic laboratory experts are knowledgeable and take pride in providing attention to the finest details.

GENERAL

IMPLANT

DIGITAL

The Heart of Giving

STORIES OF SERVICE, COMPASSION, AND COMMUNITY IMPACT IN SOUTHWEST FLORIDA

ARTICLE BY LAUREN ROSSI | PHOTOGRAPHY BY SAMANTA BLOOM

Dr. Hemita Klose

OwnerNaples Dental Boutique

TELL US ABOUT YOU AND YOUR BUSINESS.

I was born in Harare, Zimbabwe, and raised in Lusaka, Zambia, before moving to the United States with my family in 2000. My passion for education led me to graduate high school at 16, earn a degree in Micro and Molecular Biology from the University of Central Florida at 20, and graduate in the top 5 of my class from the University of Florida College of Dentistry. Dentistry has been my passion for as long as I can remember. I’ve had the joy of practicing in Orlando and building a thriving private practice in New York City. Now, as the owner of Naples Dental Boutique, I feel truly blessed to serve this community. Our practice is about more than just teeth—it’s about creating a welcoming space where you feel valued and cared for. We pride ourselves on combining compassionate care with cutting-edge technology, from sameday crowns to 3D printing, ensuring you receive the highest quality of dentistry in a comfortable environment.

TELL US ABOUT SPECIAL INITIATIVES YOU ARE WORKING ON.

One of the initiatives I’m most proud of is our upcoming Day of Service in partnership with Westshore OMS Specialists, Endodontic Specialists of Naples and Naples Periodontist. On November 14, 2025, we will be donating over $100,000 worth of dental care to disabled veterans, identified through the Wounded Veterans Relief Fund, and to reservists who are patients of record at our office. As a veteran family, this is deeply personal to us. We know firsthand the sacrifices service members and their families make, and it’s an honor to use our skills and resources to give back to them in a tangible way.

Steve Popper

Founder, President & CEOMeals of Hope

TELL US ABOUT YOU AND YOUR BUSINESS.

I am the Founder, President & CEO of Meals of Hope - the largest Food Pantry provider in Florida. We operate 14 weekly Food Pantries in Collier and Lee Counties giving food to approximately 4,000 families each week. We also have some of the only Baby Food Pantries in the US. In addition to our Food Pantries we have developed a line of dried fortified meals that are given to Food Banks across the country. These meals are packed by volunteers - giving them the opportunity to give back to their community. Since 2007 we have packed over 115,000,000 meals across the Country.

LOOKING AHEAD, WHAT LEGACY DO YOU HOPE TO LEAVE BEHIND FOR FUTURE GENERATIONS BOTH WITHIN YOUR FAMILY AND COMMUNITY?

The legacy I hope to leave behind is knowing that our children are kind, loving and will make a difference in their community. After 18 years of running Meals of Hope, knowing that we will continue to give food to people who so desperately need help throughout SWFL and beyond.

WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE OTHERS TO MAKE A DIFFERENCE IN THEIR COMMUNITIES OR PURSUE LEADERSHIP ROLES?

We have over 40,000 volunteers participate each year in our meal packing program. The advice I want to give is that everyone can give back some way to their community. By giving back, people learn that it can be fun and impactful. So get out there and volunteer. You will find that by helping others you are actually helping yourself by being able to contribute to your community.

Lane Beatty

OwnerThe Sports CLUB Center

TELL US ABOUT YOU AND YOUR BUSINESS.

I grew up in the small town of Harbor Springs, Michigan where Sports activities played a large role in my life. Being raised by my father who worked nights, I started coordinating the neighborhood kids to meet at my house right after school. We would play neighborhood games or basketball, football or baseball until the 6:00 church bells rang and we knew it was time to go home for dinner. After graduating from Central Michigan University in 1983 and teaching physical education for 14 years, I noticed that the children were inside, sitting at tables during the after-school program where I was teaching. After observing this day after day as I was leaving work, I knew that I would be able to make after-school more fun and athletic by giving the children 2-3 choices of what they would like to do every 45 minutes, rather than putting them all in the same activity. Sports CLUB was born in the fall of 1999 with six children at two elementary schools. Today, we serve approximately 1,000 children per day in Collier County at both public schools and at our home base, The Sports CLUB Center located at 3275 Pine Ridge Road. I never dreamed that what I started doing after school in my childhood would turn into a profession that has been the most rewarding work of my life.

WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE OTHERS TO MAKE A DIFFERENCE IN THEIR COMMUNITIES OR PURSUE LEADERSHIP ROLES?

I would say you will always miss 100% of the shots you never take. Find your talent and use it to make a difference for others. Giving back is the greatest reward you can give yourself - everyone has more to give of their time, talent or resources than they often realize.

Noemi Y. Perez President and CEOThe Immokalee Foundation

TELL US ABOUT YOU AND YOUR BUSINESS.

Having grown up in Immokalee, it is one of my greatest honors to serve as President and CEO of The Immokalee Foundation—an organization that has been opening doors of opportunity for local youth since 1991. Our mission is simple but powerful: Building Pathways to Success by focusing on workforce development through education, career readiness, and professional growth.

In 2019 we launched our Career Pathways program, a data-driven initiative that aligns our students with high-demand, well-paying career fields right here in Southwest Florida. They are Healthcare, Engineering & Construction Management, Business Management & Entrepreneurship, and Education & Human Services.

Through this innovative after-school and summer education model, we prepare Immokalee’s youth for meaningful careers that lead to financial independence, while also addressing the evolving workforce needs of our region. It’s a win-win for our students and for Southwest Florida.

LOOKING AHEAD, WHAT LEGACY DO YOU HOPE TO LEAVE BEHIND FOR FUTURE GENERATIONS?

I hope to leave behind a legacy rooted in opportunity, service, and gratitude. My desire is to create a clear pathway to success for future generations, both within my family and throughout the community. I want them to flourish — not only by achieving their own dreams, but also by carrying forward the responsibility to come back and give back.

Whether through time, talent, or treasure, my vision is for them to help others in the same way opportunities were once given to them. By paying it forward, they will strengthen the foundation of our community, ensuring that every generation has the chance to rise, lead, and make a difference.

Gary

Markel FounderOperation Healing Forces

TELL US ABOUT YOU AND YOUR BUSINESS.

I was born in Richmond, Virginia, and have been fortunate to build a full and meaningful life. I’m married, with one son, and after a long career in the insurance industry and several other entrepreneurial pursuits, I now enjoy retirement here in Naples, Florida, where I live full-time. Naples is not only where I’ve chosen to build my home, but also where I’ve discovered a powerful sense of community and purpose. While my business career gave me the tools and resources to succeed, what I’m most proud of today is the opportunity to give back. In 2011, my wife Denise and I founded Operation Healing Forces, with a mission to serve America’s wounded Special Operations Forces warriors, veterans, caregivers, and families of the fallen. We knew there was a critical need to provide support for these men and women who have sacrificed so much in defense of our nation, and OHF has since grown into a national nonprofit recognized for its life-changing programs.

I may be retired from the insurance world, but I’m far from retired from making a difference. Supporting our nation’s Quiet Professionals through OHF is both a responsibility and a privilege. Being able to do this work from Naples, surrounded by such a caring and generous community, is one of the greatest blessings of my life.

WHAT IS MOST IMPORTANT TO YOU IN LIFE?

What matters most to me is being loved by my family and respected by my friends and peers. Beyond that, it’s vitally important to feel as though I am part of something greater than myself. Through Operation Healing Forces, I’ve been able to dedicate my time and resources to serving those who have sacrificed so much for our nation. For me, leaving a legacy of hope and healing for wounded Special Operations warriors and their families is a profound measure of a life well-lived.

At the end of the day, it’s not about personal accolades or material success - it’s about knowing that the work I’ve supported will continue to change lives long after I’m gone. If my contributions help a warrior reconnect with their family, give a caregiver strength to carry on, or prevent even one life from being lost to despair, then I can say with certainty that my life’s purpose has been fulfilled.

Steve DiMarco

Owner

TELL US ABOUT YOU AND YOUR BUSINESS.

We are a Naples based full service, chauffeur transportation company. We 100% guarantee five star transportation service. With our new model, fleet of vehicles, including SUVs, Mercedes sprinters, mini coaches, and luxury buses. Located at 1030 Collier Center Way, Naples.

HOW LONG HAVE YOU BEEN IN NAPLES? WHAT BROUGHT YOU HERE?

I’ve been in Naples since 1999, backand-forth to my Connecticut base company. Now have made Naples my home base for the past three years.

LOOKING AHEAD, WHAT LEGACY DO YOU HOPE TO LEAVE BEHIND FOR FUTURE GENERATIONS BOTH WITHIN YOUR FAMILY AND COMMUNITY?

I want to be remembered for the love and values I passed on to my family and friends.

WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE OTHERS TO MAKE A DIFFERENCE IN THEIR COMMUNITIES OR PURSUE LEADERSHIP ROLES?

Find a cause that matters, gather people who care, and get to work. Action beats intention every time.

HOW DO YOU DEFINE SUCCESS IN YOUR LIFE?

As a cancer survivor, every day I wake up is a successful day.

TELL US ABOUT THE CHARITY/CHARITIES YOU SUPPORT AND WHY IT’S IMPORTANT TO YOU.

I support the Cancer Society because I’m a cancer survivor myself. Their work in research, awareness, and patient support is deeply personal to me, and I want to help others going through the same fight.

WHAT MOTIVATES YOU?

My motivation comes from my faith in God and my love for my family.

HAVE THERE BEEN ANY SIGNIFICANT MENTORS OR ROLE MODELS IN YOUR LIFE? IF SO, WHO AND HOW?

My father has been my biggest role model. He’s taught me hard work, perseverance, and how to stay calm in tough situations.

Katie

Brennan FounderSchool Lunch Matters

TELL US ABOUT YOU AND YOUR BUSINESS.

School Lunch Matters is a 501 (c) 3 organization dedicated to addressing the nutritional needs of children in our local community. Our mission is to provide healthy breakfasts, lunches, and snacks, to children, ages 0-5, attending local daycare centers in Collier County who are unable to afford nutritious food options or suffer from food insecurity.

Our activities include operating a local commercial kitchen to prepare and deliver meals daily to these daycare centers. We collaborate with the State of Florida food reimbursement and program directors of local centers to implement and optimize the food program. We also engage in fundraising efforts and reach out to local donors to fund our initiatives. Additionally, we provide programs that further support and nurture habits for healthy eating.

HAVE THERE BEEN ANY SIGNIFICANT MENTORS OR ROLE MODELS IN YOUR LIFE? IF SO, WHO AND HOW?

The very best mentors I had were my grandparents, I was fortunate enough to have both sets of grandparents into my late 20’s and 30’s and I was able to spend a lot of quality time with them. They each had their own unique personalities. However, what they all had in common was gratitude.

I believe because they all grew up in the Depression Era, this instilled a strong sense of gratitude for everything they acquired through life. They taught me most about my faith, family, and having gratitude which in turn leads to giving back to the community and to others.

IF A GENIE OFFERED YOU ONE WISH TO GRANT, WHAT WOULD IT BE AND WHY?

I would like to see the food insecurity rate in Collier County reach zero. Once that milestone is achieved, our next goal would be to replicate this nonprofit model and establish additional chapters in other counties. I believe a local, community-focused approach is the most effective and efficient path to achieving this objective.

COLOR | CUTS | EXTENSIONS | MAKEUP

REDEFINING the salon experience

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As a L’Oréal Professionnel Black Elite salon, the exclusive team masters advanced color, the latest cutting techniques, hair extension methods, and hair smoothing treatments. Color specialists focus on a range of hair painting effects from the subtle to the dramatic, including color corrections. While blonde hair is the specialty, all hair colors are welcome!

Each guest’s experience is customized with treatments tailored to their specific needs, with a focus on the number one priority: to maintain the integrity of the hair. The “HOB 4P Hair Wellness” approach aims to PREPARE, PREVENT, PROTECT + PROLONG each hair service.

We are genuinely passionate about the opportunity to enhance the beauty our guests already have. There’s nothing better than helping someone feel beautiful and confident!

-Christina Payton CEO & STYLIST

-Annie Watson Photography

N A P L E S D E N T A L B O U T I Q U E

M E E T D R . K L O S E & T E A M

N a p l e s D e n t a l B o u t i q u e i s n o w o p e n , a n d w e ' r e e x c i t e d t o i n v i t e

y o u t o e x p e r i e n c e t h e d i f f e r e n c e

D r H e m i t a K l o s e a n d h e r d e d i c a t e d t e a m h a v e c r e a t e d a s t a t e - o f - t h e - a r t

p r a c t i c e w h e r e y o u r c o m f o r t a n d w e l l - b e i n g a r e a t t h e h e a r t o f e v e r y t h i n g w e

d o S t e p i n t o a b e a u t i f u l , t r a n q u i l s e t t i n g d e s i g n e d t o t r a n s f o r m y o u r d e n t a l

v i s i t i n t o a r e l a x i n g a n d r e f r e s h i n g e x p e r i e n c e

W e b e l i e v e i n a s i m p l e p h i l o s o p h y : h o n e s t , t r u s t w o r t h y d e n t i s t r y F r o m r o u t i n e

c l e a n i n g s t o c o m p l e t e s m i l e t r a n s f o r m a t i o n s , w e o f f e r a f u l l r a n g e o f

c o m p r e h e n s i v e a n d c o s m e t i c t r e a t m e n t s , i n c l u d i n g :

S a m e - D a y C r o w n s

I n v i s a l i g n

D e n t a l I m p l a n t s & H y b r i d D e n t u r e s

C o s m e t i c W h i t e n i n g a n d V e n e e r s

A n d a l l o f y o u r g e n e r a l d e n t a l n e e d s , f r o m c l e a n i n g s t o f i l l i n g s .

D i s c o v e r d e n t a l c a r e t h a t i s n o t j u s t e x c e p t i o n a l , b u t g e n u i n e l y c o m f o r t a b l e

W e c a n ' t w a i t t o w e l c o m e y o u t o t h e f a m i l y

BEHIND THE SCENES

Acts of Kindness, Stories of Impact

ARTICLE BY LAUREN ROSSI PHOTOGRAPHY BY SAMANTHA BLOOM

Behind the scenes of our Charity & Giving feature, photographer Samantha Bloom beautifully captured these inspiring leaders at Porsche Studio Naples. Surrounded by sleek design and innovation, the studio offered the perfect backdrop to highlight their stories of service and compassion. Each portrait reflects not only their professional achievements, but also the heart and generosity they bring to our community every day.

N A P L E S D E N T A L B O U T I Q U E

M E E T D R . K L O S E & T E A M

N a p l e s D e n t a l B o u t i q u e i s n o w o p e n , a n d w e ' r e e x c i t e d t o i n v i t e

y o u t o e x p e r i e n c e t h e d i f f e r e n c e

D r H e m i t a K l o s e a n d h e r d e d i c a t e d t e a m h a v e c r e a t e d a s t a t e - o f - t h e - a r t

p r a c t i c e w h e r e y o u r c o m f o r t a n d w e l l - b e i n g a r e a t t h e h e a r t o f e v e r y t h i n g w e

d o S t e p i n t o a b e a u t i f u l , t r a n q u i l s e t t i n g d e s i g n e d t o t r a n s f o r m y o u r d e n t a l

v i s i t i n t o a r e l a x i n g a n d r e f r e s h i n g e x p e r i e n c e

W e b e l i e v e i n a s i m p l e p h i l o s o p h y : h o n e s t , t r u s t w o r t h y d e n t i s t r y F r o m r o u t i n e

c l e a n i n g s t o c o m p l e t e s m i l e t r a n s f o r m a t i o n s , w e o f f e r a f u l l r a n g e o f

c o m p r e h e n s i v e a n d c o s m e t i c t r e a t m e n t s , i n c l u d i n g :

S a m e - D a y C r o w n s

I n v i s a l i g n

D e n t a l I m p l a n t s & H y b r i d D e n t u r e s

C o s m e t i c W h i t e n i n g a n d V e n e e r s

A n d a l l o f y o u r g e n e r a l d e n t a l n e e d s , f r o m c l e a n i n g s t o f i l l i n g s .

D i s c o v e r d e n t a l c a r e t h a t i s n o t j u s t e x c e p t i o n a l , b u t g e n u i n e l y c o m f o r t a b l e

W e c a n ' t w a i t t o w e l c o m e y o u t o t h e f a m i l y

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Just beyond your doorstep, unwind at Lowdermilk Park and Naples Pier, or experience the finest shopping, dining, and entertainment in the area. Then, return home and take a dip in the private pool or relax fireside under the stars.

With every detail designed to inspire, Ascent invites you to experience the distinctive allure of Naples living—redefined.

ARTICLE BY LANE BEATTY, FOUNDER & CEO, SPORTS CLUB

Sports CLUB’s 25-Year Legacy and the Path Forward

Twenty-five years ago, my wife and I had a conversation that changed our lives and the lives of thousands of children in Collier County.

After years of coaching and mentoring, I saw the power of structured play, positive role models, and leadership. But there was a gap: families needed more than babysitting. They needed a safe, supportive place where kids could grow into confident, capable individuals.

That vision became Sports CLUB.

We started small with a handful of kids and a big dream to blend sports, mentorship, and fun. Today, Sports CLUB serves over 1,000 students daily during the school year and 500 each day in the summer.

What makes Sports CLUB special isn’t just our programs, it’s the people. The families who trust us. The staff who go the

extra mile. The former students who now return as mentors and educators.

For working parents, after-school care is a necessity. At Sports CLUB, it’s also a powerful opportunity to shape young minds, foster leadership, and build resilience through play and meaningful connection. Our model is simple: provide a safe space, connect kids with mentors who care, and offer enriching experiences that inspire growth.

The results speak volumes. Over 20 of our current staff were once students. Sixteen former team members have become local teachers. Alumni often credit Sports CLUB with giving them life skills that shaped their futures.

But the need is growing.

That’s why we’ve launched the Sports CLUB Capital Campaign, a bold step to expand our reach and open a new facility in Eastern

“At Sports CLUB, we believe that investing in children is one of the most powerful ways to strengthen a community. Together, we can continue building a brighter future, one child at a time.”

Collier County, an underserved area lacking access to indoor recreational space. This campaign will allow us to:

• Expand our facilities to serve more children in high-need areas

• Strengthen academic and athletic programming

• Invest in professional development for staff, ensuring quality mentorship for every child

For many families, Sports CLUB is more than an after-school program. It’s a support system and a place where children find belonging and purpose.

As we celebrate 25 years, we’re not just looking back, we’re looking ahead. We invite you to be part of our future. Whether by sharing our story, volunteering, or supporting our campaign, your involvement helps shape the next generation.

At Sports CLUB, we believe that investing in children is one of the most powerful ways to strengthen a community. Together, we can continue building a brighter future, one child at a time.

Join us. Learn more at sportsclubnaples.org

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Grateful for You This Season

As the season of gratitude arrives, we’re reminded of how truly thankful we are for our clients Whether you’re buying your dream home or selling a place f illed with memories, we deeply value the trust you place in us Your journey inspires our dedication every single day

At Kimberly Luxury Group, we’re honored to be named the #1 Small Team in Naples by number of transactions and ranked #3 by volume by RealTrends Verif ied These milestones are thanks to you, our valued clients, and our commitment to helping you live your best life in Naples From peaceful waterf ront mornings to vibrant evenings downtown, we know what makes this city so special

This November, we celebrate you Thank you for letting us be part of your story

Let’s connect and create your next chapter together

COM

URBAN WELLNESS

ARTICLE BY LAUREN ROSSI

Redefining Meditation, Healing, and Human Potential

In an age where stress, trauma, and disconnection dominate modern life, Urban Wellness is rewriting the story of meditation and holistic healing. Founded by visionaries Tina Hallett and Kristy Paul, the brand has grown from a single studio into a multi-faceted wellness movement that bridges science, technology, and ancient wisdom.

At the heart of this transformation is the patented Lava Bed—a groundbreaking meditation bed that pairs heated lava rock sourced from active volcanoes with a proprietary infrared frequency waveform. The result is a rapid and measurable shift into a parasympathetic state: within minutes, the nervous system resets, the mind calms, and the body deeply relaxes. Unlike traditional meditation, which can take years to master, the Lava Bed delivers an immediate and accessible pathway into stillness—one that is scientifically grounded, spiritually resonant, and universally impactful.

Tina Hallett & Kristy Paul

What began on 5th Avenue in Naples has expanded into collaborations with leading universities, psychology centers, and wellness clinics nationwide. From the University of Indianapolis Psychology Center to Chrysallis Wellness Center in Fort Myers and Coastal Meditation in Cape Cod, the Lava Bed is being embraced as a therapeutic tool in behavioral health, trauma recovery, and holistic care. The results are inspiring: individuals who once struggled to quiet their minds are now experiencing meditation with ease and consistency.

Urban Wellness isn’t stopping there. With the launch of Urban Wellness Retreat, the company is redefining sober living through a luxury, healing-centered model. Opening in November 2025, the retreat blends mindfulness, meditation, healthy meals, trauma-informed practices, and community support into an environment where recovery feels empowering, dignified, and transformative. A second retreat is already scheduled for late 2026, signaling demand and momentum.

Supporting this expansion is the Urban Wellness Foundation, a nonprofit dedicated to widening access to mindfulness initiatives. By funding projects, developing inclusive programs, and ensuring meditation remains accessible across diverse communities, the foundation extends the brand’s mission beyond luxury spaces into schools, hospitals, and underserved populations.

Together, these ventures embody the essence of Urban Wellness: bold innovation, measurable results, and a commitment to human flourishing. What Hallett and Paul have created is more than a product or a retreat—it is a movement that proves meditation can be immediate, science-backed, and life-changing.

In a world desperately seeking calm, connection, and healing, Urban Wellness has emerged as a trailblazer—transforming meditation into the future of health, hospitality, and human potential.

GET INSPIRED EAT & DRINK

SHOP LOCAL

Saddle up partner, the Bootstrap Boogie Barn Dance returns this fall! Join Naples Therapeutic Riding Center (NTRC) for an unforgettable evening of Western elegance, boot scootin’ boogie, activities and philanthropy supporting its life-changing, equine-assisted programs. On Saturday, November 8, 2025, from 5 - 10 pm, cowboys and girls are invited to throw on their boots for the 20th anniversary of NTRC’s beloved signature fundraiser— coming together to improve lives, one stride at a time

Presented by Health Care Logistics, this cherished barn party has united the Naples’ community in support of the programs and individuals NTRC serves every day. “For two decades, the Bootstrap Boogie Barn Dance has fueled memorable experiences, connection, and transformative growth at NTRC,” said Michelle Schweber, Executive Director of NTRC. “It reflects the strength of our community and the deep impact of our herd. Every sponsor, volunteer, and guest plays a role in the lives we serve, and we welcome you to help carry this legacy forward.”

Get ready to dance the night away under the stars with live country music by the Joel Fry Band as over 300 partygoers kick up their boots with two-stepping, square dancing, and line dancing fun! After a

delicious dinner by Jaime’s Catering, guests can test their skills at a variety of cowboy-style activities including mechanical bull riding, Pony Pie Bingo, a sharp-shootin’ gallery, and roping station.

Don’t miss the unforgettable “Meet the Herd” experience—a chance to tour the barn, visit the stalls, snap a photo, and connect with the gentle, majestic therapy horses at the heart of NTRC’s mission.

The evening also includes an open bar, live and silent auctions, and meaningful ways to give back through Fund-a-Need and Sponsor-a-Rider opportunities—all in support of programs that create healing strides between horse and human.

All proceeds from the event support NTRC’s year-round programs, including therapeutic riding, occupational therapy, equine-facilitated psychotherapy, and other ground-based programs — which currently serve more than 800 individuals annually. These efforts are made possible with the support of over 460 trained volunteers, as well as community partnerships and our traveling mini horse team.

This year, NTRC also celebrates earning a perfect score during its PATH Intl. Premier Reaccreditation site visit—highlighting the center’s unwavering commitment to safety, excellence, and professionalism.

What began as a grassroots gathering has grown into one of Naples’ most unique and cherished community events, raising essential funds to support NTRC’s mission of improving the lives of children and adults with physical, social, and emotional needs through equine-assisted services.

The Bootstrap Boogie Barn Dance is on Saturday, November 8, 2025, from 5 - 10 pm at Naples Therapeutic Riding Center located at 206 Ridge Drive, Naples, Florida 34108. Individual tickets are $500, and Sponsorships start at $2500. To purchase, become a sponsor or for more information, please visit https://www.naplestherapeuticridingcenter.org/barndance/

ABOUT NAPLES THERAPEUTIC RIDING CENTER

Naples Therapeutic Riding Center (NTRC) is a PATH International Premier Accredited Center dedicated to improving lives through equine-assisted services. Serving over 800 individuals annually, NTRC relies on over 15,000 volunteer hours and the generous support of organizations like the Naples Children & Education Foundation, founders of the Naples Winter Wine Festival. Recognized as a 4-star charity by Charity Navigator, NTRC is one of Florida’s most highly regarded therapeutic equine centers.

@naplestherapeuticridingcenter

H O P E

Begins with YOU A SEASON TO SEE THE UNSEEN

The holidays have a way of calling us back to what matters most—faith, family, compassion, and the quiet but powerful act of giving. As lights go up and calendars fill, there are still many who sit in silence, carrying burdens too heavy to bear alone. But what if this season, you could be the spark that changes everything for someone else?

The founders of City Lifestyle, through their private foundation, are once again launching its annual Christmas Giving Campaign—a heartfelt effort to seek out and support individuals and families who have quietly fallen through the cracks. The mission is simple: to bring light, dignity, and hope to those who need it most.

Since its beginning just four years ago, this initiative has grown from a humble idea into a life-changing movement. Last Christmas alone, more than 200 families across the country received unexpected support—financial relief, but also something even more powerful.

“We don’t just send checks,” says Steven Schowengerdt, CEO and founder of City Lifestyle. “We send a message: You are seen. You are loved. And you are not forgotten.”

Together with City Lifestyle President Matthew Perry, Steven has helped shape this into a tradition that goes far beyond charity. “This is about community,” Matthew adds. “We believe we’ve been blessed, so now we get to be a blessing.”

Every story begins with a nomination. Often, it’s a neighbor, coworker, friend, or teacher—someone who’s been quietly carrying too much for too long. One past recipient, after receiving unexpected support during a time of deep personal struggle, wrote:

SCAN TO NOMINATE

“We send a message: You are seen. You are loved. And you are not forgotten.”

“Beyond the very practical solution of receiving funds to fix my car, this thing you guys worked together to do is bigger than that. I carry the Christmas card you sent in my purse. When things get really hard, I pull it out and remember what it felt like to be seen. That card represents hope— that change for the better is possible. I’m not sure how many people get to carry hope around in their purse. But I do.”

Another wrote in after her husband was diagnosed with aggressive brain cancer and unable to work:

“This support has blessed our family not only financially, but emotionally and spiritually as we trust God to meet our needs throughout this difficult time. Thank you to our anonymous friend and to your foundation. What a joy and gift to be part of God’s family!”

Each year brings countless stories like these—real lives touched by simple acts of kindness. Some use the funds to pay overdue bills, others to afford groceries, medication, or repairs. But no matter the circumstance, the impact is the same: hope is restored.

This season, you have the opportunity to be part of that. The campaign is now open to nominations—completely confidential and prayerfully considered. Whether it’s someone battling illness, facing unemployment, or just in need of a helping hand, you can bring them a moment of grace that will ripple far beyond Christmas morning.

“Knowing my mom was chosen filled my heart with indescribable joy,” said another past recipient. “Your generosity doesn’t just brighten her life; it inspires hope and faith in all of us. It enables her to stay in her home and get back on her feet.”

Nominations are open from November 1st to December 5th, 2025. To submit someone you know, simply scan the QR code or visit @CityLifestyle on Instagram, where you’ll find the nomination form in the bio.

This holiday season, let’s give more than gifts. Let’s give each other the gift of being seen. Because sometimes, the smallest gesture becomes someone’s greatest miracle.

To nominate someone in need, visit: KingdomBuildingFoundation.org or scan the QR code.