Vol.5, Issue 2/March 2018 Barbara Plocharczyk, Marcia Wolfe, Co-editors

If we can help children build a better life, there’s nothing better we can do

with our time and money…. Myra Janco Daniels, Founder

NOTE FROM MYRA

We are in the middle of an exciting season of Latchkey League events. The

Roaring Twenties Affair at the Vineyards, in my opinion, ranked right at the

top of any we have held. Everyone was tapping their toes and having a good

time with the music of Dick Hyman. He has performed for over 30 years in

the biggest halls in the world. Dick has stopped performing but did this

special evening for us. He sat down at the piano without a piece of music and held us spellbound.

Our own League member, Sheila Zellers, was put on the spot (I admit to doing it) and without a

rehearsal with Dick, she sang with his accompaniment and they were a smashing success.

Thank you all for your part in making this event so successful – especially my co-chair, Lynette

Merillat. She looked the ‘20s role but she didn’t act it. Thanks to those who worked on and

supported the silent auction, which was a success and to Jo Ann Ward for bringing several

guests out to enjoy the evening with us.

Many of us were treated to an exciting and interesting evening on Feb. 5th at the lovely home of

Joanne and Karl Wyss, our special hosts. There were lots of smiling faces and everybody was

open to our cause of helping children.

The open house held at the Fran Cohen Youth Center brought out many members and guests. It

was heartwarming to meet the teachers and staff and to see the quality of the programs they

have planned. League members and guests applauded the simple but efficient look of the

school. Every League member should be proud of being able to supply the necessary funds to

make this happen. Bob Young is still looking for volunteer teachers and aides; please contact

him.

If every member would be responsible for bringing one guest to our luncheons, new membership

would automatically grow. I hope to see you soon at our luncheons and events.

P.S. April’s program will be one of our most exciting…don’t miss it!

LETTER FROM BETTY BAILEY, PRESIDENT

Our party season is almost over with only the Kentucky Derby and July 4th

Naples Princess Cruise left for this year’s remaining events. There is still time

to join the fun by making your reservation with Lynne Nordhoff at 239-594-

8420.

This year Preferred Travel provided a special raffle for two people to spend

seven nights aboard a Celebrity Cruise. The final drawing will take place at

our April luncheon meeting. Tickets are $50 each or three for $125.

All proceeds from this drawing go toward our grant monies which are given to

support children’s programs.

Our April meeting will be the last one until November. This will be an informative one for year-

end activity updates, results of member nominations for next year’s officers and a special

surprise musical performance.

Thank you to our members who have volunteered to help with children’s activities at the Fran

Cohen Youth Center and New Horizons. Your continued support of events, luncheons and

donations have a big impact on the future of Collier County latchkey children.

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APRIL 20TH LUNCHEON AND ANNUAL MEETING

If you want first-class music in your life, don’t miss our April luncheon. There will be a quintet

made up of faces you will recognize, and they will be playing the music you know and love. Be

sure to make your reservations so you don’t miss out.

A WARM WELCOME TO OUR NEW MEMBERS…

Thelma Badwey, Chrissy Bianchi, Lois Bolin, Betty Anne Brennen, Paul Conklin, Meggan

Davis, Joyce Dunn, Jeanne Harvey, Jennifer Hoy, Marilyn Post, Cathy Smyth, Amy

Turner, Jacob Winge and Nancy Wyckoff.

CHAMPAGNE, CAMARADERIE AND CONTEMPORY ART

Thank you to Joanne and Karl Wyss for their generous contribution to the children of the

Latchkey League. On February 5 they opened their magnificent home and allowed us to

view their contemporary art collection for this special benefit.

It was a delightful evening from start to finish. The valet parkers handled all of the

guest’s cars with ease. Guests were greeted by servers with trays of champagne. Nine

Latchkey League volunteer docents and the host committee gave highlights of the art

collection with information provided by our hostess. Delicious hot hors d’oeuvres were

served by one of Naples finest caterers. Our host extended words of welcome and Myra

Daniels spoke about the importance of the Latchkey League mission.

Many Latchkey League friends attended the sold-out evening, as well as Opera Naples

friends and new guests. It was a wonderful evening!

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THE MAINE EVENT – NEW ENGLAND LOBSTER BAKE ON NAPLES BAY

Thank you, Sheila and Tim Zellers, for opening your

magnificent home overlooking Naples Bay. It was a gorgeous

evening with 58 in attendance. Guests enjoyed cocktails and

appetizers which were specially made by and passed by our

sponsor team members wearing lobster decorated aprons.

New England style picnic tables were on the patio with clam

chowder served as the first course. Sweet lobster, mussels,

clams, potatoes, corn and coleslaw kept everyone happily

eating! The phenomenal meal ended with strawberry

shortcake. Sheila’s post dinner singing rocked the house.

Kathy Fina, Joann Johnston, Nancy Ryan, Judy Shanley, Jean Travlos and Jo Ann Ward

have been the presenters for the past four years underwriting the complete cost of the

evening. Oh, what a night!

THE BOOK NOOK

We are looking for new and used children’s books for the Fran Cohen Youth Center's

new BOOK NOOK. Picture books and chapter books for ages 5 to 15 are needed. Bring

the books to our next luncheon or call Judy Tedder at 239-254-0843 for pick-up!

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VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES

Bob Young reports that volunteers are showing up and participating in greater numbers.

Having a successful open house helped spur interest. Over 150 after-school students

attend the FRAN COHEN YOUTH CENTER every day and many would benefit by having a

mentor just to talk with. THE CENTER beckons for adults helping children in need. Call

me at any time and I’ll find a spot for you. Bob Young: 239-596-5909. Thank you.

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UPCOMING EVENTS

Kentucky Derby Run for the Roses, Saturday, May 5. This event sells out every

year so get your reservation in now for this special race while enjoying an assortment of

appetizers and mint juleps. Ladies, wear your special Derby hats and gentlemen dig out

your special racing attire! Space is limited to 50 people. $160 per person.

July 4th at Sea, Wednesday. Come aboard the Naples Princess for an evening cruise

into the Gulf to watch the sunset and fireworks! Enjoy a savory buffet dinner and meet

some local veterans joining us to celebrate our freedom. Space is limited to 140 people.

Must be over 21 to cruise. $130 per person.

Latchkey League | P.O. Box 413005 #221 | Naples, FL 34101