Grapes & Apes

For the past few months, I have been introduced to an event going on its 3rd year, Grapes & Apes. This is an event the Naples Rotary Club created to raise money for eradication of polio in the world (still a problem in yet a few countries); worldwide wheelchair program - to supply every person in need; and to provide funding for local education, etc. Great event and Jay and I have been in charge of the volunteers.  What a job this has been! But we are so excited for tomorrow night at the Naples Zoo! Tickets are still available for the event, so if you are in the Naples, FL area, please come and support a wonderful cause! There are still some entrance tickets available. Below are a few things going on:

Boost Your Wine IQ

If you pre-registered for our wine education hour, you will receive an admission pass by email in the next day or so.  Please plan to arrive by 4:45 PM to enter and get seated.  You must bring your pass to be admitted.  If you are confirmed on our sign up list but did not receive your pass by email please contact us this week. If you did not register, we are already booked to capacity so please understand we cannot accommodate more people. 

Grapes & Apes

We will only open admission into the wine and food areas at 6 PM. If you arrive early you may browse our silent auction packages and place bids.  Glasses and plates will only be distributed at 6 PM when barricades are removed.

Attire: Grapes & Apes is a casual event.  You can dress however you are most comfortable for the evening temperature.

Parking: The main zoo lot is our primary location so we ask people to carpool as much as possible.  Additional parking is available at both of the Fleishmann Park lots, one off Fleishmann Boulevard and the other across from the zoo on Goodlette Frank Road.  We have a trolley shuttle for those who park off site.  If you choose to walk, please use and obey the crosswalk signals.

Sunset Boat Cruises: The boat cruises, sponsored by Seminole Casino Immokalee, begin at 6 PM and will end at 7:30 PM.  We encourage you to start your evening down at Victoria Lake to avoid lines and see the monkeys while they are active and visible.

Auctions: This year we will have both a live and silent auctions.  The live auction from 7 to 7:30 PM includes fabulous trips to exotic far away places and the silent auction packages are uniquely combined to offer amazing experiences.  Silent auction ends at approximately 8:30 PM. See a list of packages below.

Entertainment: Naturally you'll get to see the animals in their habitats, but there is a lot more to enjoy!

There will be three Keeper Talks on Saturday night- Black Bears at 6:30 PM, Lions at 8:00 PM and Lions at 8:30 PM.  The animals are either fed or amused in ways that make them great fun to watch!  Additionally, six Animal Encounters allow you to get up close and personal with surprise zoo residents at 7:45, 8:15 and 8:45 PM along the pathway behind the Black Bears.

Music is always a hit at Grapes & Apes and we'll have six performers for your listening pleasure, individual musicians by the entrance, porcupines, zebras, black bears and lions all night and the band Synergy Triggered will start playing at 7:45 at the Pavilion.

Hours by Area: Please note the festivities down by the lake will end at 9 PM and the area by the Lions will close at 9:15 PM.  The Black Bear and Pavilion areas remain open until 10 PM.

Harley-Davidson Signed by BRUUUUCE!

Have you heard about our Harley?  It has 0.3 miles on the odometer and is a 2009 Softail signed by Bruce Springsteen and the entire E Street Band including Clarence Clemons! Donated to The Rotary Club of Naples by Soozie Tyrell violinist, guitarist and vocalist in the E Street Band we are raffling just 2000 tickets to win this collector's item with drawing to be held at Grapes & Apes!  Tickets are $50 each and can be bought by clicking here.

Auction Items

Live Auction: Starts promptly at 7 PM at the Pavilion. Among items available are trips to Paris, Napa, China, Tuscany and Bali.

Silent Auction: Opens at 5 PM. Here's a sample . . .

Balloons over Paradise - Lot #47

VIP seating for 10 guests in the VIP tent with food and beverages as well as access to all festival activities for Saturday April 20th or Sunday April 21st, 2013.  $2500 value

Barefoot Bliss - Lot #44

The Club at Barefoot Beach is delighted to present a summer membership to their Private Beach club offering a lifestyle of leisure, fun, variety and a calendar of special social events. Private beach and pool service, guesthouse privileges and all club amenities.  Sandals Off! This package includes A Summer Membership at the Private Club at Barefoot Beach. Member is entitled to full privileges to all of the Club Facilities.  No Equity Privileges, available while a summer Member.  5/1/13 thru 11/30/13. $3,500.00 Value

The Benzinger Winery - Lot #1

At Benziger, we're about three things: family, great wine and healthy vineyards. Enjoy an exclusive wine tour and tasting at our Glen Ellen winery and a 2-night stay in our Winery Guesthouse. Voted best Sonoma winery experience of 2012!  While in Napa, visit Cornerstone Cellars for a wine tasting for four.2 night stay for 4 at the Benziger Winery (expires June 2013); VIP tour for 4 into the vineyard and Barrel caves; Benziger tasting for 4; Cornerstone Cellars tasting for 4; AlphaOmega Winery tasting for 4; Air travel for 2 provided by Mad Travel (expires March 24, 2014).

Boyne Mountain - Lot #5 

Pick your season! Enjoy a weekend retreat at Boyne Mountain for skiing or golfing as you choose. Inspired by the inns of Switzerland and Austria, the Mountain Grand Lodge and Spa redefines the classic northern Michigan vacation. This package includes One night hotel's lodging; One day unlimited lift tickets for 2 or one round of golf with cart. Expires 3/23/14.

Belize 14-Day Yacht Charter - Lot #6

This package includes a 14 day yacht charter from Sunsail.  Other locations and larger boats are available for an upgrade fee. Available 4/16/13 - 12/15/13.

Turn around fee of $230, daily insurance of $59/day, and fuel not included.

By Land By Sea - Lot #42

For the Land Lover in you enjoy a day filled with the most beautiful scenery imaginable at the Naples Botanical Garden. Surf's Up! - Exercise your adventurous spirit and experience all of Naples beauty while you try out the paddleboard experience!  Old Naples Surf Shop will hook you up with a lesson or you may take the spectacular Eco-Tour.  Naples Beach Water Sports will take you OVER the Sea with their exhilarating Parasail Adventure! A fabulous adventure for any age!  This package includes Paddle Board rentals For 4 with private lesson Or Eco-Tour; 4 admission Tickets to Naples Botanical Gardens (expires 12/31/13); 2 Parasailing tours (expires 12/1/13.)

Captivating Captiva - Lot #34

You will be captivated by beautiful South Seas Island Resort.  South Seas is a resort and wildlife Sanctuary with boundless opportunity for family fun and adventure.  Spanning two and a half miles of shell-laden beaches framing the tranquil waters of the Gulf of Mexico, this unique setting allows you to enjoy native Florida in all of its wondrous Beauty.  Family Fun at its BEST! This package includes 3 day/Two Nights Stay South Seas Island Resort in a Harbourside Guest-Room at the Pointe OR 1 bedroom Villa (Subject to resort availability).

Dapper Daddy's Day - Lot #17

Every guy deserves his day out, too!  You'll look and feel dapper your fine new threads from Mondo Uomo when you take 3 of your buddies out for a day of golf, food and fun! Nothing says dapper like playing the private and beautiful Vanderbilt Country Club.  After your best day of golf ever, head over to Randy's Fishmarket for a frosty cold drink and some fresh scrumptious seafood caught daily.  You da Man! This package includes 18 holes of golf for 4 at Vanderbilt Country Club; Golf Carts; Greens Fees and Driving Range (valid 5/15/13 - 10/15/13); $100 Randy's Fishmarket (Expires 4/1/14;  $200 Gift Certificate to Mondo Uomo

Date Night - Lot #36

Step out onto the red carpet on this date night! You'll be treated to a fun and riveting evening production of Agatha Christie's classic, Mouse Trap.  Solving a mystery is hungry business! Stroll over to Campiello or Café & Bar Lurcat for a decadent meal to top off your acclaimed evening.  This package includes 2 tickets for Mouse Trap (Friday May 10, 2013 8:00pm; $100 Gift Certificate for your choice of any D'Amico Family of Restaurants (Expires 12/31/13)

Dinner Club -Lot #32

Dinner is served!  Your party of 6 will have star treatment while they enjoy a

3 course dinner, on the nights of their choosing at Pazzo! Cucina Italiana,

Chops City Grill and Yabba Island Grill on 5th Avenue South. Great food

With great friends..Great evenings ahead! This package includes; 3 course $75 private dinner menu For 6 at each location. Does not include alcohol, to-go, transportation, Expires 3/23/14.

Do it all over again -Lot #21

Wedding Vow Renewal Ceremony By Rev. Doug Pareti $50 gift Certificate to The Boathouse; monogrammed plush Robes provided by EmbroidMe; a bottle of Champagne; one night stay at the Naples Hilton(5/31/13 - 12/15/13)

Family Fun Package - Lot #25

You and 3 guests will enjoy a full day at 1 of Disney's 4 parks with the ability

to "Hop Around" to each of them.  Magic Kingdom, Epcot, Hollywood Studios and Animal Kingdom! Enjoy something out of this world at the Kennedy Space Center! 3 nights' accommodations at Grande Villa's Resort will keep you rested while on the go! This package includes 4 one day Hopper passes to Disney Parks Expires 1/28/15); 4 tickets to Kennedy Space Center; 3 nights stay Grande Villas Resort (must Be booked by 6/10/13 used by 6/13/13 blackout Dates 5/24-26 Incidental deposit and taxes Not included.

Fish Stay and Play! - Lot #31

Get your gear packed for your stay and play at the GullWing Resort! GullWing is located on the widest stretch of pristine white sand on Estero Island.

This package includes One full day, inshore fishing Trip on Estero Bay or Pine

Island Sound with Rotarian Jason Shimko, winner of theFilet & Release Tournament. After, Jason will treat you to some cold Beverages at Doc

Fords, on Ft. Myers Beach, FL (Expires 12/31/2013)

Fitness Frenzy - Lot #38

Pump You Up!!!

This package includes Bo's Fitness Camp 4 Weeks-3times a week 6:15am or 8:30am;  10 Personal Training Sessions from Ferrari Fitness (Expires 6/10/13)

3 Floatation Sessions Naples Massage and Neuromuscular.

Give it a Whirl - Lot #26

This package is all about you and a friend trying new things!

This package includes 4 lessons (1 per person)For Dance Lessons at Fred Astaire Dance  Studios; $100 Gift Certificate to Randys Fishmarket (exp 4/1/14) Private Tennis Lessons for 2; Cardio Boot Camp for 2 - Fitness by Sanders; 2 tickets For Mousetrap (4/17/13 8pm)

Go Blue! - Lot #40

Experience Mind Blueing drinks for you and 24 of your closest friends at the

Blue Martini.  This package includes a 2 hour VIP cocktail party for up to 25 - 1 cocktail each and chefs choice of appetizer for the group.

Golf in Paradise - Lot #8

It's golf for everyone!! Did we mention it's your treat? No worries. With this package you'll get a round of golf for 4 at Quail Creek Country Club and Stonebridge Golf Club.  But do you know what you don't have to share...your new RBZ Taylor made 3 wood. Enjoy! This package includes A round of golf for 4 at Stonebridge Country Club (5/1/13 -10/30/13); Quail Creek Country Club (5/1/13 - 10/31/13).

Golfers Delight - Lot #35

FORE!!! Enjoy playing at two of the area's finest courses with one round of golf for four at Shadow Wood Country Club. How about a relaxing lunch with

a friend after your twosome at Imperial Golf Club? Better go buy a bunch of balls!! This package includes 1 Round of golf for 4 at Shadow Wood Country Club (5/1/13 - 10/31/13);1 round of golf for 2 and lunch at Imperial Golf Club (valid 5/1/13-10/31-13)

Here Fishy Fishy! - Lot #43

Spend the day on the water with Capt. Bruce Jackmack.  Capt. Jackmack is the 2010 & 2011 Redsnook Charity Catch and Release Fishing Tournament Champion.  Come catch a GIANT snook! After, enjoy a fresh Catch and frosty cold beverage at Randy's Fishmarket.   This package includes a½ day fishing trip for 2(no Weekends, available 7/1/12-13 - 10/31/13); $100 Gift Certificate to Randys Fishmarket Expires 4/1/14

Keep Your In-laws at Bay- Lot #2

Need a little privacy? Maybe it's your get-a-away.  Head over to the Inn at Pelican Bay for a two-night stay.  Have breakfast or lunch at Stage 62 and then enjoy a healthy dinner at acclaimed Seasons 52.  This package includes a two-night stay at the Inn At Pelican Bay (expires 12/19/13); $50 gift Certificate to Stage 62; $52Gift certificate to Seasons 52.

Kids Rule! - Lot #45

Kids Rule and the Beach is Cool!  Barefoot Beach Kids Club is the perfect fun spots for your 5-12 year old this summer.  You won't hear "Im Board" from anyone when they engage in Tennis, Yoga, Swimming, Beach Walks, shelling, nature walks and more! All at the exclusive facility at The Club at Barefoot Beach.  Kids Rule!! This package includes snacks and full lunch with Tennis, Yoga, Swimming, beach walks, shelling, nature walks and more.  July 15-19 or July 22-26th.   Ages 5-12.

Mind Spa Package - Lot #39

Peggy Sealfon will help you enter the "Stress-Free Zone" for improved health, productivity, Transform, Emerge and Become. Nurture your Mind, Body and Spirit.  Included in this package- 3 Quantum De-Stress Classes; 3 Transformational Breath classes;  1 hr Aromatherapy Massage; 1 hr Reiki Session (Expires 9/23/13)

Mommy's Day - Lot #33

Get ready for a day of pampering.  Manicure at Island Nails, $50 Salon Card from Sashy Hair Design and a one-hour massage by Eisa Lindner, Massage Therapist, $100 Gift Certificate from Gallery One.  Carry it all in your new animal print purse also from Gallery One.

This package includes; $35 gift Certificate.(expires 2/8/14; $50 gift Certificate; Gift Certificate for 1 hour massage; $100 Gift Certificate Gallery One (expires 8/10/13; Purse by Gallery One.

Naples Beach Hotel - Lot #9

Experience is everything at The Naples Beach Hotel & Golf Club. Enjoy 2 nights' deluxe accommodations with buffet breakfast each morning.  Relax on the beach while you watch the waves break on shore.  Play a round of golf on our award-winning golf course after your. Relax with 2 50 minute massages.  At night you will experience HB's on the Gulf, our signature restaurant. This package includes 2 nights' deluxe accommodations; Buffet breakfast for 2 each morning; Two 50 minute massages; One 18 hole round of golf for 2; Dinner for 2; Two beach chairs daily; Two poolside cocktails (expires 12/31/13)

Naples Birds Eye View- Lot #23

From schooling sharks and stingrays just off our shore to the Ten Thousand Islands that stretch from Marco Island to Florida Bay, all from the comfort of a Cessna 172.  After your flight, you will enjoy lunch at The Boat house restaurant where you can reminisce about the day's adventure.

This package includes an airplane tour for 2; $50 gift certificate to The Boathouse Restaurant.

Northern Exposure - Lot #22

Take a break in Naples from a different perspective.  Hotel accommodations for 2 nights at the Hampton Inn, lunch at Stage 62, an airboat ride at Airboats and Alligators and dinner at PF Changs. This package includes 2 nights stay at Hampton Inn 1-75 (4/13 -12/13) $50 Gift Certificate to Stage 62; 4 airboat rides from Airboats & Alligators; $50 gift certificate to PF Changs.

Paradise Found- Lot #24

Paradise:  A place of bliss. A region of supreme delight. A state of happiness.  Here is your chance to explore your local Paradise!This package includes 1 FamilyOr Grandparent Annual membership To Naples Zoo, 4 admissions passes To Naples Botanical Gardens (Expires 12/31/13);4 admission passes To Edison Ford Winter Estates.

Park Shore Sunset Cruise with Dinner at M Watermark Grille - Lot #12

Enjoy a 90 minute sunset rental from Park Shore Marina.  After Your boating experience you will be hungry! Head over for a $400 dinner at M Waterfront Grill for Cutting Edge Continental Cuisine with an emphasis on Fresh Seafood, Steaks, homemade Pastas, Organics and Tapas plates. This package includes a 90 minute sunset cruise from Park Shore Marina (expires 5/30/13); Gift certificate $400 Dinner at M Waterfront Grille (expires9/15/13).

Party like a Rock Star! - Lot #7

A once in a lifetime chance to meet the legendary band Chicago and hear some of their many top ten hits! Get ready to party like a rock star.    After the show, you will go back stage to meet the entire band.  You will receive guitar picks from Chicago's three guitarists and an assortment of CD's. After the show you can relax in your stunning and spacious hotel room at the Hard Rock Hollywood and recharge like a true rock star. 4-4-2013.

Private Cocktail Party for 6 - Lot#20

It's your party, but you are the guest! Enjoy time spent in full focus on your friends in the beautiful Gulf Shore Home of Cicardi and Susan Bruce. Cicardi was designated as the top amateur chef in St. Louis! Sit back and enjoy delicious Hors d' oeuvres and cocktails and an unforgettable evening!

Paul Arsenault - Dinner for 6 and Artwork - Lot #10

Dinner for six at the home of renowned Naples artist Paul Arsenault and his wife Eileen.  Paul and Eileen live just one block from Naples Pier in a vintage Naples home next to historic Palm Cottage. Enjoy a gourmet meal, prepared by Chef Ted Hudgens. The winner of this auction will also receive a framed gyclee painting by Paul Arsenault.

Putting on the Ritz -Lot #41

Escape to a 2 night retreat at The Ritz-Carlton, Naples. During your retreat, slip on your finest and head over to the Capital Grille to satisfy your culinary cravings for dry aged steaks, fresh seafood and world-renowned wines. 

This package includes $500 towards your stay at The Ritz Carlton and $150 gift Certificate to Capital Grille.

Re-charge and Rekindle- Lot #27

The sparks will surely fly during this well deserved get away.  Who would have imagined a romantic stay in paradise while being so close to home?

This package includes King Superior Room for 1 night 2 days Stay at Naples Bay Resort  (Expires 3/ 16/14); $50.00 Gift Certificate for Bonefish Grill.

Russell's Clambakes Luau for 50 - Lot #4

Don't just stand there; go get 50 of your closest friends to join you at your Hawaiian Luau catered by one of Naples' finest caterers Russell's Clambakes.  Grass Skirts a must. This package includes a Hawaiian Luau for 50 guests at your home. Catered by Russell's Clambakes.

Trey Radel - Lot #30

Enjoy a delightful lunch at 5th Avenue Bellini's Italian Restaurant with our very own 19th Congressional District United States House of Representative Trey Radel. (Dates to subject to Trey Radel's availability)

Total Wine Tasting - Lot#3

Treat your friends, family and fellow wine lovers to a private wine tasteing for up to 20 people.  Total Wine & More can fashion a private wine tasting which is certain to impress you and your guests with 8 hand-selected wines.

Ultimate Naples Weekend- Lot #28

Surround yourself in luxury with a 2 night stay at the Inn on Fifth- in the heart of Old Naples just blocks from the white-sand beaches of the Gulf of Mexico.  Eat drink and be merry! This package includes 2 nights Club Level Suite accommodations (Expires 12/20/13);$200 gift Certificate to La Lafayette Restaurant;$100 Gift Certificate for Randy Fishmarket (expires 4/1/14)

Vineyards Country Club Lifetime Full Golf Membership- Lot#14

The Vineyards Country Club is a privately owned and debt free country club with a diverse membership, vital sense of community and full year-round membership.  This is a family membership that covers your household including both spouses & children under the age of 24. Retail value $35,000.00 - minimum bid $10,000.00.  Member is responsible for the annual dues. See board and auction specialist for additional information.

VIP Tour at the Metropolitan Opera in NYC- Lot #48

See the Metropolitan Opera backstage during season at Lincoln Center.  This is a private tour not offered at any time to the public led by principle tenor, Mr. Tony Stevenson, a 20 year veteran of the Met. (Sundays not available)

We Do It Again- Lot #15

This package includes:  Renewal of vows on the beach by Dr. Ron Patterson of  the United Church of Christ; $50 gift Certificate to Stonewood; monogrammed plush Robes provided by EmbroidMe; a bottle of Champagne; one night stay at the Naples Staybridge Suites (expires 12/20/14) not valid Feb - March

Wild for Braces - Lot #46

See Auction Item for specific details on orthodontia

We can't wait to see you on March 23rd! Grapes & Apes event tickets are $100 per person.

We appreciate your support. People like you make it possible to help our neighbors both here in Naples and around the world.