Now You Know: Bonita farmers market returns, Art Fest seeks submissions
The Bonita Springs Farmers Market returns for its 16th season featuring fresh fruits, vegetables and other great eats, from 8 a.m. until noon, beginning Oct. 7 and continuing through May at the Promenade at Bonita Bay, 26795 S Bay Dr.
The market has become a destination for lovers of a “green” outdoor market, which also features freshly cut flowers, plants, baked goods, seafood, honey, jams and much more. The market also is home for exquisitely prepared foods and drinks for breakfast and lunch. And new this season will be a limited number of artists and crafters.
“By supporting your local farmers market, you're not just buying food, you're investing in the health of your community, the environment, and the livelihoods of hardworking farmers, crafters, chefs and fishermen,” market co-founder Betsy Ventura said. “Nourish your body and your community by shopping on Saturday mornings with us."
Located in Bonita Springs, right outside the community of Bonita Bay, the Promenade is home to retail stores, unique boutiques, a salon, restaurants and entertainment hubs in Southwest Florida.
Promenade at Bonita Bay is open Monday through Saturday,10 a.m. to 8 p.m., and Sunday, noon to 5 p.m. Online at PromenadeShops.com.
Art Fest Naples seeking submissions
Art Fest Naples Invitational at Fleischmann Park seeks artists working in all media to exhibit at the annual show. The juried art show will be held Jan. 20-21, at Fleischmann Park, 1600 Fleischmann Blvd., Naples.
In its 27th year, the show has consistently been rated one of the top shows in the country. In 2023, Sunshine Artist ranked Art Fest Naples 84th of the top 100 fine art and design shows in the United States.
A jury of arts professionals will select the artists to participate in the show and will award prizes in numerous categories. All artists must apply online at artfestnaples.com by Sept. 25.
“Some of the nation’s finest artists will be participating in Art Fest Naples, displaying and selling their work ranging from oil, acrylic, and watercolor paintings, pottery, blown glass, metal, fiber and wearable fiber, turned wood pieces, sculptures, printmaking, photography and jewelry to a variety of mixed media,” said Art Fest Naples Director Taire Malloy.
A portion of the proceeds benefit St. Vincent de Paul Naples’ Meals on Wheels Program. The program serves nutritious food and a friendly visit to homebound seniors and disabled neighbors. More than 55,000 meals a year are provided by more than 175 volunteers that support this ministry. St. Vincent de Paul’s other programs include the Family Assistance Center and Choice Food Pantry.
For more information visit svdpnaples.org. For more information about the 2022 Art Fest Naples, contact Taire Malloy at 239-634-2337. Email artfestnaples@gmail.com or visit artfestnaples.com.
Free autism screening for young children
Golisano Children’s Hospital of Southwest Florida, in partnership with Ronald McDonald House Charities of Southwest Florida, offers a free monthly autism spectrum disorder screening for toddlers 18 months to five years of age.
The next screening will be held from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., Oct. 6, at the Pediatric Specialist Office, 15901 Bass Rd, Suite 102, Fort Myers.
It is estimated that one in every 44 children is diagnosed with some form of Autism Spectrum Disorder, making it more common than childhood cancer, juvenile diabetes and pediatric AIDS combined.
Medical consultants for the project stress that an early diagnosis can make a vast difference for toddlers and their families. They say early intensive behavioral intervention can make an immense difference not just in the development of the child, but in their families as well.
The ASD screening is conducted by the Golisano Children’s Hospital of Southwest Florida. The screenings are administered by an Advanced Practice Registered Nurse, who has extensive training and experience in typical child development and developmental disorders.
A physician referral is not required. To schedule a screening, call 239-343-6838.
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This article originally appeared on Naples Daily News: Now You Know: Bonita farmers market returns, Art Fest seeks submissions
