Neapolitan Family May 2020 Digital Issue

May 2020 neafamily.com

COMPLIMENTARY

Enter o ur 2020 S en Showc ior ase & Sweep stakes

Life at Home

How to cope when work, school, and celebrations are canceled

NEAPOLITANfamily • May 2020

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Now offering Summer Camp!

Register today!

napleszoo.org/summercampwild Camp WILD is a week-long day camp where campers (ages 5-12) will enjoy games, activities, behind-thescenes tours, animal encounters, arts & crafts, meet new friends and more!

Visit napleszoo.org/summercampwild for dates and more information! napleszoo.org I 2

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239-262-5409

I 1590 Goodlette Rd. Naples, FL NEAPOLITANfamily • May 2020

IS YOUR CHILD HURTING? AVOW IS

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Activities for Your Child • Parent and child support groups

Children often mask their feelings of grief behind smiles or even unusual behaviors.

We’ve been helping Collier’s children unmask and process grief since 1983, all without charge to families.

We support children through divorce/separation, incarceration, deportation of a family member, death of a loved one or pet, loss of a friend, and other losses that affect your child.

• Grief support in Collier County schools • Individual and group meetings with licensed or certified counselors • Camp MendingHeartTM day and overnight camps that feature therapeutic art, therapeutic music, and healing activities

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Helping Hands•Caring Hearts•Healing Support

• Teen movie nights • Book discussion groups

Aunt Janet’s House on the Avow Campus

Phone: (239) 261-4404 | Email: AvowKids@avowcares.org | Avowcares.org

NEAPOLITANfamily • May 2020

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May 2020 TABLE OF CONTENTS 10 Life at Home. Local families are discovering meaning in quarantine as they adjust to a slower pace of life.

by Anna Snyder

in every issue . . .

07

FROM THE PUBLISHER

08

YOUR COMMUNITY

09

COLLIER COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOLS UPDATE

22

FAMILY LAW

24

YOUR FAMILY’S HEALTH

14 Photo Essay: COVID-19 in Immokalee. Photographer Lisette Morales documents life in Immokalee during coronavirus.

by Stacy Nicolau

on the cover…

18 MOMentum Mom. Meet Beards & Brews owner Lindsey Dulin, who isn’t letting a pandemic clip her dreams of growing her barbershop business.

by Stacy Nicolau 20 20 in 2020: Mother’s Day at Home. Ideas to create a special, meaningful day for Mom amidst the chaos.

by Katherine Baron The Jackoboice Family sheltering in place. Parents Tim and Heather are the owners of Air Bar Blowouts & Extensions in Naples. London (holding laptop) is a sophomore at Barron Collier High School (BCHS), Montana is a seventh grader at Pine Ridge Middle School, and Remington (pictured above) is a senior at BCHS. Dogs Harper (left) and Macie complete the family.

Cover photo by Peggy Farren of Avant Garde Photography 239-263-7001 • naplesportraits.com

23 8 Coping Tips for Parents. An expert from David Lawrence Center provides advice on helping kids deal with new daily lives.

by Jessica Liria 27 Virtual Doctor Visits. Learn how you can see your provider without leaving home.

28 College Admission and Coronavirus.

Help your student navigate this rapidly changing process.

by Amanda Sterk, Ed.D.

The Moorings Presbyterian Preschool A vibrant learning community with a highly qualified staff

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A Mission of Naples United Church of Christ NEAPOLITANfamily • May 2020

Find Us on Facebook!

@PCANaples neafamily.com

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We're Celebrating Local Seniors!

Senior Showcase and Sweepstakes Neapolitan Family Magazine would like to honor your 2020 Southwest Florida high school graduate by featuring them in our online and print Senior Showcase, for FREE! Upload a photo of your grad, along with their high school and plans after graduation, and they will be entered to win a $500 Amazon.com Dorm Decor package, sponsored by Caine Premier Properties and Truist Bank(formerly BB&T and SunTrust Banks).

Name, High School Future plans Accomplishments

Visit neafamily.com/contests for more information and to enter.

Entries must be completed by May 10, and voting will be held May 11-15. The contest is limited to 2020 graduates of Collier and Lee County public and private high schools, including homeschoolers. One entry per student. The grand prizewinner will be awarded to the student receiving the most votes. The top 20 grad photos by popular vote will be featured in the June issue of Neapolitan Family. All entrants and voters will be eligible to win an iL Primo Pizza & Wings gift card.

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NEAPOLITANfamily • May 2020

from the publisher… the parenting magazine devoted to collier county

P.O. Box 110656 Naples, FL 34108 info@neafamily.com 2020

2020

2020

THIS MONTH: Life at Home

2020

Co-Publisher Leigh Ann Newman lanewman@neafamily.com 239-272-0529 Co-Publisher Stacy Nicolau snicolau@neafamily.com 239-370-5333 Travel Editor Karen T. Bartlett mostlykidsguides@gmail.com 239-595-9026 Feature Writers Anna Snyder Katherine Baron Cover Photographer Peggy Farren www.naplesportraits.com Field Photographer Lisette Morales lisettemoralesart@gmail.com Editorial submissions are welcome. We reserve the right to edit, reject, or comment editorially on all material contributed. We cannot be responsible for return of any unsolicited materials. Articles and advertisements in Neapolitan Family do not necessarily reflect the opinion of the publisher nor does the publisher assume responsibility for statements made by our advertisers or editorial contributors. Acceptance of advertising by Neapolitan Family does not constitute an endorsement of the products, services, or information.

We do not knowingly present any product or service that is fraudulent or misleading in nature. Neapolitan Family is available free of charge at more than 200 distribution points throughout Collier County as well as digitally at neafamily.com. Neapolitan Family is ©2020 by Neapolitan Family Publishing LLC. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part without written permission is strictly prohibited.

NEAPOLITANfamily • May 2020

Do you have a high school senior in your house? I don’t, but know enough 2020 graduates, including my niece (Happy Graduation, Paige Melby!), to understand the sense of loss they are experiencing from missing the final quarter of their high school lives. We wanted to do our part to add back some celebration to their graduations, so we’ve put together our Senior Showcase and Sweepstakes for Collier and Lee County high school grads. Because many families are struggling financially right now, we decided to make all entries FREE. We will include your grad’s photo and future plans on our website and June issue. PLUS, you will be entered to win a $500 Amazon.com Dorm Decor gift card, sponsored by Caine Premier Properties and Truist Bank (formerly BB&T and SunTrust Banks).

You will have noticed a departure from our usual cover. We were unable to do a regular cover shoot with one of our contest winners because of social distancing. Instead, we’ve brought you the Jackoboice Family of Naples, sheltering at home. Who would have thought that staying home would be so complicated?

That we desperately would be trying to remember the basics of geometry, staying up until midnight to place a grocery order, or putting on gloves to get the mail?

As I already worked from home, parts of my day haven’t changed. But now there is a teenager who needs attention and food only when I am busy with work, cats who inexplicably have become more needy (I was already home, guys!), endless meals to plan and prepare, and, of course, all of those Zoom meetings.

We all are overwhelmed by the daily news. At Neapolitan Family, we understand that you have all of the statistics you need. What we all want to know is how to deal with our new normal. Here it is: articles on what to do if you lose your health insurance (page 24), how to navigate co-parenting during quarantine (page 22), helping your kids cope (page 23), guiding your teens through a rapidly changing college admissions process (page 28), visiting your doctor virtually (page 27), and celebrating Mother’s Day at home (page 20).

In honor of Mother’s Day, I want to say one thing to all of my fellow moms out there: give yourself a huge break. None of us thought our crazy lives could get any more crazy, but they did. And we are dealing with it. It’s not perfect, and we are learning as we go, but we’ve got this. Stop worrying about what isn’t working and focus on what is. Find your moments of joy where you can. Most of all, stay healthy.

Happy Mother’s Day!

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YOUR COMMUNITY NEWS & EVENTS

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A The

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

Three Locations to Serve You. BONITA SPRINGS

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lthough the Apple Blossom Teacher of the Year Awards ceremony has been canceled for 2020, Collier Child Care Resources (CCCR) is recognizing the nominees for its annual Teacher of the Year awards.

Preschool Teacher of the Year nominees: Diana Gutierrez, FORZA Child Development Center; Suchity Jordan, Fun Time Early Childhood Academy; Ana Lopez, Pathways Early Education Center of Immokalee; Carolina Macias, Guadalupe Center; Cheri Vasquez Murace, Livingston Academy; Crystal Page, Little Wonders, a CCCR Early Childhood Development Center; Knorsheeka Parker, Pathways Early Education Center of Immokalee; Shirley Rafeldt, Peace Early Learning Center; Jessica Chavez Rodriguez, Child’s Path, a CCCR Early Childhood Development Center; and Alicia Sanchez, Precious Cargo Academy.

Infant/toddler Teacher of the Year nominees: Sonia Garcia, Precious Cargo Academy; Guadalupe Perez, Guadalupe Center; Ruth Ruiz, Peace Early Learning Center; and Christina Santucci, Livingston Academy.

School Year Center Teacher of the Year nominees: Kaitlyn Arnold, Poinciana Elementary; Makenzie Weaver Camarda, Osceola Elementary; Denny De Leon, Golden Terrace Elementary; Stephanie Falcone, Naples Park Elementary; Marian Fernandez, A Step Up, a CCCR Early Childhood Development Center at Golden Gate High School; Edith Galan, A Step Up, a CCCR Early Childhood Development Center at Immokalee High School; Desiree Elizabeth LoScalzo, Ph.D., Village Oaks Elementary; Mariela Naranjo, Pelican Marsh Elementary; Christina Roman, Poinciana Elementary; Raimalu Santana, A Step Up, a CCCR Early Childhood Development Center at Golden Gate High School; Lori Schwab, Vineyards Elementary; Maria Torres, Methodist Day School; and Rosa Victoria, A Step Up, a CCCR Early Childhood Development Center at Immokalee High School.

Nominees are individually highlighted on the organization’s website at www.collierchildcare.org/apple-blossom-awards.

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NEAPOLITANfamily • May 2020

COLLIER COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOLS

I

By Chad Oliver, Executive Director of Communications

CCPS Launches eLearns, Continues to Evolve

f there’s a silver lining to the COVID-19 outbreak, then it can be spotted in the online learning between our teachers and students. Spring break proved to be the major turning point to a year unlike any we’ve experienced as a county or country.

While the virus spread and closures loomed, Collier County Public Schools (CCPS) staff worked tirelessly to develop a continuous learning plan should school campuses need to close. Sure enough, on March 13, state leaders called for all public schools to shutter for two weeks. When that closure soon was extended, we launched CCPS eLearns.

It started with a week of student self-paced online learning. Then students transitioned to teacher-led virtual learning using the Canvas Learning Management System. Teachers recorded lessons and uploaded them in an “on-demand” model so students had flexibility in completing the assignments. That was an intentional decision to assist families with multiple children sharing computer time. The flexible format also enabled working parents to join in the learning process at a time convenient for them.

To ensure equity for all students, CCPS surveyed parents about whether they had a computer and internet access at home. Next came the arduous effort to round up, prepare, and distribute laptops,

Wi-Fi access cards, and devices like iPads so that students would be able to keep their minds sharp and continue learning.

The initial priority was to make sure every household had at least one laptop. Then additional resources were distributed to our larger families who expressed a need.

All prekindergarten students and students on a modified curriculum through the CCPS Exceptional Student Education Department were given the opportunity to pick up iPads.

“Thank you for supporting our students. Thank you for being creative. Thank you for working together,” Superintendent

Kamela Patton, Ph.D., said in a March video message to all staff. “No matter how long these health precautions remain in place, we, as a district, will come out of this stronger!”

We heard swooning praise and constructive criticism as CCPS eLearns rolled out to students. A superintendent in Michigan requested collaboration and offered encouragement. “Your district’s plan is a national exemplar for supporting students educationally during this crisis,” the superintendent wrote in an email. Our CCPS Office of Curriculum and Instruction set up a conference call the next day to share Collier County’s best practices with educators in Michigan.

CCPS has been on a fast track toward digital innovation before anyone uttered the word “coronavirus.” More than 1,000 CCPS educators have gone through Instruction through Digital Innovation training, which consists of 24 hours of lessons on using the latest tech tools, hardware, and software and how to enhance instruction and learning. Digital innovation is so important that it is included in our 2020-22 Strategic Plan. CCPS eLearns has expedited that process and expanded what we offer our students to make sure they are college, career, and life ready. The cloud of closures accompanied by COVID-19 did indeed hover with a silver lining.

Covenant Church of Naples Mom’s Morning Out Providing a loving environment for children while offering parents and caregivers a needed break

Fall Classes Start August 18 – Register Now! One-, Two-, and Three-Day Options Available Monday-Thursday, 9 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.

Ages 2-4 years by Aug. 1

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For more information, email sherry.kendrick@covenantnaples.com.

NEAPOLITANfamily • May 2020

Hurry! Space is limited. neafamily.com

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What we’ve learned from coronavirus

Local families are discovering meaning in quarantine as they slow down and adjust to a new normal.

By Anna Snyder

M

y husband and I have a very particular and passionate 5-year-old girl. We’re thankful and happy and, as such, time seems to be hurtling forward at a rapid rate. As soon as I fully appreciate any given stage, it slips through my fingers like beach sand – completely gone before I’ve realized there was hardly any sand left to hold onto. These happy, golden days, replete with hilarious antics, blissfully unaware dance moves, and secret family catchphrases, pass so quickly. In all our harried busy-ness, I’ve always longed to better savor moments and figure out how to bottle my blessings. I always wondered how I could stop time.

Enter March and April 2020. Currently, time stands still, the days repeat themselves in a Groundhog Day-esque plot, and our little

LittlePeoplesSchool.info

family of three takes up all the space we can possibly inhabit, cozied up at home and trying desperately to create a new, workable rhythm.

We’re all trying to hold on to some small shred of our personal sanity. Not too many of us wanted to so-unexpectedly homeschool our children. A lot of us aren’t working at all and feel very pressing financial strains. We’re suddenly forced into roles we didn’t choose – roles we (may) already detest, roles that stress us out and strain our relationships, or even roles we may enjoy under different circumstances. The work-from-home mom, the homeschool dad, the short-order chef, the furloughed employee, the frustrated yeller, the sneaky treat eater, the desperate toilet-paper seeker, the briber, the snack regulator, the neighborhood ornithologist, the blanketfort architect, the tyrannical autocrat, the exasperated mom who

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rips her hair out and declares Movie Marathon Monday.

And yet, we’ve all learned a lot from quarantine. We’ve learned about ourselves and our families. Yes, many of us experience daily frustrations, but there is a way to make meaning out of this time and find things for which to be thankful. As we cope with the demands of our new world, we adjust and find ways to make it work.

Courtney Newbery, a Naples mom of four (ranging in age from 3 to 9), is focusing on creating inner peace, which sets the tone for her day. “I’m starting each morning by writing down what I’m thankful for and praising God. It impacts my day in a positive way when I choose to be grateful. I’m trying hard not to complain.

When I am tempted to gripe about our current circumstances, I try to say something encouraging instead. As a result, my kids have a better attitude – gratitude really is contagious.”

Sally Carpenter, a local mom of three young children (3, 4, and a first-grader), finds solace and release through hard labor. She and her family have been quarantined for four weeks, and she only leaves her house to do Walmart grocery pickup. Her husband works nights as an ICU nurse at NCH – he’s on the front lines. In the midst of homeschooling two children and caring for a toddler, she finds time to step outside and work on taking down an overgrown traveler’s palm tree in her side yard. “Whenever I get overwhelmed and stressed – when it seems like the walls of my home are closing in on me, I take a pickax and reciprocating saw and work at chopping down the side yard tree.”

Kelly Eastman, a mom of five children ranging from 4 years old to middle school, said the energy at home has changed over these past weeks. For now, she isn’t working, and she’s found that she loves being home without having to run in a million directions because of work, feeding a family of seven, and extracurricular activities. “And, when things get negative inside in one way or another between my children, I have the energy to demand that my children get up and come outside to play soccer with me or shoot hoops in the driveway because I’m not working right now. There is always something for which our family can give thanks – even in the strangest of circumstances.”

“My kids seem much happier with fewer places to be,” said Angie Grows, a Naples mom of three boys. “I’ve learned that we’re adaptable, and we can do hard things. Not everyday is sunshine and roses. I’ve yelled at my kids, grown grumpy about not having time to myself, and gotten annoyed with my husband being at home

Photos, facing page: Sarah Lee’s husband, Andy, is a fishing guide with a season full of canceled trips. So they often fish as a family to cut down on their grocery bill and use their time constructively.

Above: Everly York practicing her letters at home.

all day. However, this experience has shown me that our family needed to slow down.”

Lauren York is a local mom of two and a Collier County Public Schools teacher. Her children thrive on routine, so she’s worked Continued on page 12

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NEAPOLITANfamily • May 2020

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Continued from page 11

hard to create structure over the past weeks at home.

“We created a schedule and checklist that made working through the school work manageable,” York explained. “Having the kids help create both made them more accountable for their time and work. I set lots of timers through Alexa, and when the timer goes off, I stop and move on.”

Sarah Lee, a Marco Island mom of three, gives her kids a “To

at the

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bolch campus 1155 roberts ave w, immokalee (239) 675-7003

Always remember, you’re not a bad mom if you turn on Disney+ every day.

Do” list each day, and they aren’t allowed any type of screen time until the list is complete. “It helps with wasting time,” Lee said. “I include simple things like making their beds, brushing their teeth, putting laundry away, or taking out the trash. The list changes every day, but it helps us keep up a meaningful routine and set the tone for our day.”

Regarding the Lee kids’ schooling, the parents focus on giving the children purpose through the experience, even in light of huge personality differences. “One of my children is super motivated, and homeschooling is a dream,” Lee said. “For my other school-aged child, it is a nightmare because of lack of initiative and issues with linear, written direction. I’ve given calming routines for him, daily checking of crab traps and debugging his garden (see photo on page 11), for example,” she explained. Like many other families, exercise has been essential. “PE time is an absolute must; it’s life-giving for me as much as for anyone else in my family!”

Jenna Barry, a local mom of three, explained that her attitude impacts her family, and a calming presence is essential right now.

“My kids feel my stress level, whether I verbally express it or not.

Our kids look to parents for clues on how to respond to unknown situations. We’ve loved having less activities and being home more.

The cliché that less is more is very true for our family. It’s helped me to maintain an even keel, thereby helping my kids’ overall attitudes.”

“I make sure to praise my daughter’s positive attitude and highlight how hard she’s trying,” said Lauren Odod, a Golden Gate Estates mom of three. “I try to get her to do as many of her assignments before lunch as possible. We take GoNoodle (kids’ fitness videos on YouTube) breaks, and making learning fun is always my priority.”

We are all in the process of figuring out what works, how to create meaning, what to make for dinner, how to pay our bills, and how to remain safe during this time. In the end, we are all in places we didn’t want to be, doing things we didn’t really want to do. However, we have tremendous opportunity to create meaning for our children, make rich memories, and strengthen our most precious relationships. And, always remember, you’re not a bad mom if you turn on Disney+ every day.

NEAPOLITANfamily • May 2020

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NEAPOLITANfamily • May 2020

COVID-19 in Immokalee Photos by Lisette Morales

E

ven in normal times, a scene in Immokalee daily life is a picture of contrast to what you might see in Naples, but in the time of COVID-19, the differences are even more dramatic. Outside of a Naples grocery store you will find a line of people six feet apart, wearing masks and gloves in response to the constant dissemination of information from the news and social media. In Immokalee, cultural differences, language barriers, and prior experiences with government in their countries of origin may be contributing to a slower acceptance of precautions necessary to prevent the spread of COVID-19, putting at risk the health and well-being of the community that harvests and packs the food for our tables.

Neapolitan Family field photographer Lisette Morales spent time in Immokalee during March and April, speaking with the farmworker community and photographing their daily lives. She explained that the very nature of the essential work they do puts them in a vulnerable position. The farmworkers live in close quarters and must ride buses out to the fields and packing plants. Their living quarters may not have full kitchens, so they must shop more frequently in local markets to get their daily meals. Some workers told Morales that they rely more on faith and prayer to protect them and hear many myths circulating, such as COVID-19 is only in the big cities and affects only older people.

Continued on page 17

Poster Translation These posters from the Coalition of Immokalee Workers are visible in most public spaces in Immokalee.

Left side of poster Death: “Do not get excited, friend ... the virus only kills the elderly, not strong young people like you, and besides, it is a lie! Where are the thousands of sick people? Don’t be fearful.”

Man: “Yes … you’re right.”

Right side of poster Man: “Don’t believe that, friend! All scientists and doctors agree. The coronavirus is not playing around and it is already here. You have to take it seriously and take precautions at once!”

NEAPOLITANfamily • May 2020 Bottom of poster Keep yourself informed by listening to Radio Conciencia 107.7.

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NEAPOLITANfamily • May 2020

Continued from page 15

Recognizing these cultural barriers, local community leaders have stepped up their efforts to provide reliable information and safety measures to protect the farmworkers and other people living in Immokalee. Collier County Sheriff’s Office deputies have handed out personal protection equipment such as masks, gloves, and sanitizer; they also broadcast coronavirus-related information on their patrol car speakers. Local radio stations, a popular source of news for this community, have broadcasts in Spanish and Creole to help provide accurate information.

The Coalition of Immokalee Workers (CIW), a worker-based human rights organization, has been collaborating with local growers, farmworkers, emergency personnel, and health officials to facilitate communication and to provide the farmworker community a voice at both the local and state level. CIW’s involvement includes supporting preventive measures related to virus transmission and petitioning for a field hospital for testing and treatment of COVID-19.

Lipman Family Farms, which employs a large population of migrant workers, has placed hand washing stations (see photo, page 14) in town and has taken additional measures including: reducing crew size for better social distancing; staggering break times and laundry

hours; providing essential toiletries and food to those in company housing; increasing sanitation of the buses that transport workers to the fields and providing hand sanitizer before and after each bus trip; bringing ATMs and check cashing vendors to company housing facilities; extending some H-2A visas to avoid unnecessary travel; and posting educational material in housing and holding meetings in the fields to educate workers on how to keep themselves and others safe.

“Our farm employees are extremely important to us,” said Jaime Weisinger, a spokesman for Lipman Farms. “We don’t have an operation without them, so making sure everyone is healthy, educated, and safe has been a huge focus for us.”

Gabrielle O’Boyle, spokeswoman for the Healthcare Network of Southwest Florida, stated, “As the primary medical care provider to the Immokalee community, we continue to care for and focus on educating our patients on the CDC prevention guidelines, the symptoms, and testing options available, should they or a family member become ill. Additionally, we are providing free COVID-19 screenings through appointment and testing based on screening outcomes at all our practices. Building trust and communication with our patients is always a priority, especially during this difficult time.”

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MOMentum Moms

Photo by Lisette Morales

By Stacy Nicolau

L

indsey Dulin never dreamed that she would become a successful small business owner. Statistically, she says, she shouldn’t be where she is at all. Her tumultuous childhood ended at age 11 when her stepfather murdered her mother. Suddenly, the only two parents she had ever known were gone.

Born in Washington, D.C., Lindsey was living in Indianapolis with her family when her mother died. She moved to Virginia to be raised by her grandmother, and Lindsey followed her grandmother to Southwest Florida when she retired.

After moving to Florida, Lindsey attended cosmetology school and now lives in Fort Myers with her husband, Rithoy, and three of her children: Xavier, 15; Nasir, 7; and 2-year-old Neema. Her oldest daughter, Kennedy, is 19 and in college.

After working for a franchise barbershop as both a stylist and manager for eight years, and then briefly leasing space in a coopera18

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tive salon, she became owner of the Naples’s barbershop Beards & Brews, and she soon will open a second location in Bonita Springs.

How did you come up with the concept for Beards & Brews?

The business concept came about while sitting in Whole Foods with my friend Briana. We really wanted something catchy, and after studying the market we decided to capitalize on the two hottest things: craft beer and beards.

What do you love the most about your career? I love building relationships with people. I get to make people look amazing and feel confident, and I gain new “family members” everyday. I love that I get to work with and motivate other strong mothers just like myself.

I want to show them that they don’t have to climb the corporate American ladder in order to be successful, and that with just a little faith and hustle you can have whatever God wants you to have.

How did a place called “Beards & Brews” become a popular NEAPOLITANfamily • May 2020

place for children’s haircuts? It all happened because a few moms loved us and they shared it with all the other moms. Boys have always gone to get their haircuts with their fathers – why are we trying to change the tradition now? Boys are our future clients, so we need to start while they are young.

What have been the challenges of this business while raising children? The main challenge is feeling like I’m not doing enough.

If I can’t make it to a field trip, band parade, or to take my daughter to college (even though those things are all important), there is a certain level of guilt. But I also feel like I may hurt the business by not always being available there.

How has your life experience shaped you into the mother you are today? My mother was always a super hard worker and made sure we had whatever we needed. She was very active in our schools

I love that I get to work with and motivate other strong mothers just like myself. as well. Growing up without a mother (after her death) was tough. I always had my grandmother, but the one person I wanted couldn’t be there. So I always try to make sure that when my children have something going on they can look up and see me cheering them on.

Even though I’m working I don’t want to miss anything.

What does your family like to do together in your free time?

We love to get together and just eat! There is nothing a Chick-fil-A or Culver’s milkshake can’t fix. We don’t get a ton of free time; it’s usually consumed with another sibling’s activities, but they are all very supportive as long as we are all together. We try to take a few vacations a year to the Midwest to visit our family. It’s very important to me to show my kids the importance of family. Other times we go to the theme parks in Orlando or Tampa.

What is your favorite parenting advice? I was a very young mom, and I didn’t always get it right. My nana would say, “You don’t have to always get it right, but if you get it wrong just apologize and keep going.” My advice would be, there is no manual to being a working mother; sometimes it’s going to be hard. Remember to always do your best, take the time you need, and never stop loving your kids.

How are you coping with your business being closed due to COVID-19? As a mom, learning to be a teacher and being patient with them as they navigate through this new lifestyle, it’s hard to get them to focus and realize, okay guys, we really are in school right now. Then the business aspect: How will we overcome this?

Will there be funding? Will my business recover from this, and will the landlords be compassionate with their tenants? It’s a very scary thing after spending endless hours working on my dream to now have that all possibly become a thing of the past in the blink of an eye.

On the bright side, I’ve been able to catch up on some paperwork and research new ideas to bring to the business once we restart. I’ve taken up gardening, and my house is getting more organized by the day. I am taking it day by day hoping this will be over soon.

NEAPOLITANfamily • May 2020

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20 in 2020

M

other’s Day is to thank moms for what they do all year long. It’s to show our appreciation, with a huge bow on top. With the coronavirus hitting us globally, mothers everywhere have been trying to keep their families healthy, happy, and moving forward.

Moms have been pushed to the edge to make things run smoothly at home, at “school” in an online environment, and many continue to show up at work while keeping their home together. Ordering takeout from their favorite restaurant or cooking a meal isn’t enough this year. We need creative ways to thank moms for their overwhelming dedication to family and community.

Surprises will be harder to pull off this year as we shelter at home, so be vigilant and prepare for her special day while she is working, exercising, showering, etc.

Here are 20 ideas for celebrating these remarkable women.

Food Brainstorm with your family in advance, and if you’re not sure what to do, don’t be afraid to ask mom what she would like best. Whatever you choose, make sure she doesn’t cook or clean up the kitchen.

Have a picnic in your yard. Involve the kids in 1 planning and preparing, as well as cleaning up afterward.

Host a family potluck. Everyone in the house cre2 ates a dish or dessert (little ones can help).

Have a fondue party. Who doesn’t love bread 3 dipped in hot cheese or marshmallows dipped in chocolate? Don’t stop there – you can fondue with vegetables, steak, chicken, and more. Be creative.

After a meal at home, go out for ice cream. Royal 4 Scoop, for example, is open and serving from the front door of multiple locations.

Make dessert the day before, such as chocolate 5 covered strawberries, apple pie, or brownies.

Order a special cake from a local bakery such as 6 Angelic Desserts or Sassy Cakes.

Set up a DIY ice-cream sundae bar: ice cream, 7 nuts, chocolate chips, marshmallows, fruits, and

2017

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NEAPOLITANfamily • May 2020

other toppings can be set out to make the perfect sundae.

Use mom’s own cookie recipe to bake for her. Mail the cook8 ies to her if she’s not in town.

Gifts Whether you decide to order a gift or make something at home, plan ahead so that everything is ready for the big day.

Jewelry always is a solid choice. Mom’s opinion should be 9 included in this decision. Options for mother’s jewelry: rings, charms, necklaces, and bracelets that have birthstones or charms for each child.

Have the kids put together a list of items for a special self10 care gift basket: face masks, hair conditioning treatment, nail polish, moisturizers, a candle, a magazine, and favorite chocolates.

Take chores off mom’s hands for the next week. Folding 11 laundry, taking out the trash, emptying the dishwasher, planning and making meals, vacuuming, and dusting each can be assigned to a different family member. Even if it’s not perfect, mom won’t have to do it.

Have a silly photo shoot of the kids without mom knowing.

12 You can upload and print the photos, and have them mailed to your home. Order frames so the pictures are ready to hang. Show mom how deliriously happy she makes everyone.

Homemade cards are not only meaningful, but they will keep 13 the kids occupied and having fun, all while showing mom how she much is loved.

Make a gift with items you have at home. For example, use a 14 jar and fill halfway with white sand or pebbles from the yard.

Add a candle inside and wrap the jar in ribbon.

Take the kids to Farmer Mike’s U Pick in Bonita Springs to 15 pick flowers. This will be a double present – time alone for mom and a beautiful bouquet for her to enjoy.

Plan a grocery store run on the day before Mother’s Day, 16 and buy a bouquet of flowers from each member of the family – make it the biggest bouquet of flowers she has ever received.

Support local small businesses by purchasing gift cards to her 17 favorite restaurant, coffee place, workout spot, bakery, movie theater, nail salon, etc. Plan a day dedicated to spending those gift cards once quarantine has lifted.

Activities Make the whole day about mom.

Create a playlist of her favorite music and take her on a drive 18 around town to her favorite places while her music plays.

Go on a family bike ride. Surprise her by decorating her bike 19 with flowers.

20 Pamper her from head to toe. Give her a homemade facial scrub (look online for simple sugar scrub recipes). Curl her hair, and do her makeup and nails.

Whether you are planning for Mother’s Day or you are the mom, these ideas turn the day at home into a true celebration.

Embrace this day and allow mom (or yourself) to own up to all the hard work that has been done and all that lies ahead. Let mom soak up the day feeling loved and appreciated.

KATHERINE BARON lives in Naples and celebrates Mother’s Day with her son, daughter, and extended family.

NEAPOLITANfamily • May 2020

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FAMILY LAW

By Dale Klaus, Partner, Coleman, Hazzard, Taylor, Klaus, Doupé & Diaz, PA

T

he challenges of co-parenting have increased significantly during these interesting times. Co-parenting during “normal” times requires a high level of cooperation and trust. A higher level of that trust and cooperation is required during times of crisis. This especially will be challenging in high conflict situations.

Unfortunately, certain divorced parents who have a propensity to engage in high conflict behavior and parental alienation will take the social distancing orders and guidelines as a license to violate court-ordered parenting schedules. No matter what such persons believe, parenting schedules have not been modified or suspended by any of the orders issued by our governor, the Supreme Court of Florida, nor our local courts.

Under Florida law, a parent’s violation of a parenting plan or parenting schedule can be addressed by filing a contempt or enforcement motion with the court and having a hearing on that motion. However, under the current orders from the Supreme Court of Florida addressing COVID-19 issues, some circuit courts, including Collier County, have decided not to conduct any evidentiary hearings in domestic relations court (divorce matters and other non-Florida Department of Children and Families

related family law matters). As of the submission of this article, this is currently in effect through the end of May 2020. This means that a parent who feels their parenting rights are being violated by the other parent will have to wait several months to have their issues heard before the court.

However, because our local judges are aware of this trend of taking advantage of the crisis to keep a child from the other parent, it is the opinion of this author that when these issues are finally heard by the court, the judges will be heavy handed toward violators when using the court’s contempt powers.

The best plan for a parent who is having trouble exercising their parenting time during this crisis is to document each instance of violation, and preserve all possible evidence including all communications with the other parent, such as texts and e-mails. This information could prove invaluable once that day in court arrives.

If you are experiencing parenting challenges due to COVID-19, you should contact an experienced family law attorney for assistance as soon as possible.

DALE KLAUS has exclusively represented clients in a wide variety of marital law, divorce law, and general family law matters since 2001.

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8 Quarantine Coping Tips for Parents With many parents spending more time at home with their children during the COVID-19 quarantine, David Lawrence Center’s Children’s Outreach Specialist Jessica Liria provided coping tips for parents to mindfully make it through these times.

1. Self-care. Make time to de-stress. Set aside 30 minutes or so to do something you enjoy. By allowing yourself to relax, you will be better prepared to adapt to the changes related to COVID-19 and will be more capable of staying cool, calm, and collected.

2. Daily routine. Do your best to stick to a routine. Designate times for schoolwork, chores, down time, dinner, bedtime, etc. This will provide a sense of comfort in knowing what comes next and will keep your household organized. Ensure that everyone is getting an adequate amount of sleep, eating well, and taking care of hygiene needs.

3. Stay connected. Utilize technology to socialize with family and friends. Allow kids to use social media, within reason and under your supervision. They can eat lunch virtually with their friends, work on school lessons together, play games, and more.

4. Check in. Communicate openly with your kids to see how they are feeling. Make sure they are using healthy coping skills when feeling frustrated or sad. Help them to be informed about what is going on but keep it positive. Assure them that everything will be okay, and limit the amount of exposure to news reporting on COVID-19.

5. Make plans. Discuss things that you can do together when

this is all over. Decide on a few ideas and continue to talk about them.

6. Be a good example. Pay close attention to what you are saying and doing. Your kids are listening and watching you much more than usual these days. Use this as the time to show them how to handle stress effectively and how to be kind and respectful to one another. Now is the time to truly practice what you preach!

7. Have fun. Explore ways to keep your family busy and having fun together. Do an art project to add to your home’s décor, surround yourselves with blankets and have a movie marathon, go on a neighborhood scavenger hunt – these are just a few ideas to get you started.

8. You’re not alone. Remember that this is new to us all.

Teachers are putting countless hours into shifting their lessons online, doctors and other providers are exploring ways to meet health needs through virtual platforms, grocers are working to keep their shelves stocked with household needs, and we are all doing our best to push on for better days. Be patient. Be kind. Be safe.

David Lawrence Center is now offering virtual mental health appointments. To schedule a consultation, visit DavidLawrenceCenter.org.

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YOUR FAMILY’S HEALTH

W

By Dr. Emily Ptaszek, Chief Executive Officer, Healthcare Network

ith unemployment on the rise, many of our neighbors find themselves without health insurance at a time when they need healthcare services the most.

As of April, unemployment claims in Florida since March 15 approached 600,000, and that number may be an underestimate due to the filing difficulties associated with overwhelmed processing systems.

The tragedy? The very pandemic that threatens our health is causing many to lose their health insurance. About half of Americans receive their health coverage through their employer.

While steps have been taken to ensure all Americans will receive treatment for

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coronavirus, if needed, other medical needs will not be covered by stimulus funding, such as children’s vaccinations, obstetrics/ gynecology checkups, management of chronic conditions, senior care, diagnosis of new issues, and treatment of other illnesses, including the flu.

Equally concerning is that in order to minimize the spread of the virus, routine medical services are being delayed, even as mental health treatment and stress management are needed by many to face this unprecedented and prolonged stressor.

When the risk of the pandemic passes, there could be peaks of other illnesses and chronic disease related to deferred primary care and delayed mental health care.

Primary care is essential to a functional

healthcare system because primary care providers are responsible for diagnosing, treating, and preventing a wide variety of health conditions. While so much of life seems to be on pause, it is imperative that patients with pressing medical conditions continue to work with their primary care team to maintain their health. For those who have not yet established a primary care medical home, the time to research a provider is now, before you have medical need.

If you have recently lost your job or are without health insurance, rest assured that Healthcare Network is here for you.

Since 1977, Healthcare Network has been committed to filling gaps in care by providing high quality primary medical care to our community, regardless of a patient’s

NEAPOLITANfamily • May 2020

insurance or employment status. Our sliding fee discount program reduces costs to uninsured and underinsured patients based on their income and family size.

While we have had to change some of our procedures for the safety of our patients and staff, our practices remain open and we still are caring for the community. We no longer accept walk-ins to our centers, but instead ask patients to call ahead. In the coming days, we also will launch telehealth services allowing us to virtually deliver medical and behavioral health services to our patients who do not require a physical exam.

This spring, Healthcare Network will open the Nichols Community Health Center in Golden Gate, the single most underserved area in Collier County. This new medical complex will offer comprehensive primary care services for all ages, including medical, dental, integrated behavioral health, and pharmacy. While it is a difficult time to open a new healthcare complex, Healthcare Network recognizes the vital role that the new location will play during the pandemic and in the community’s recovery.

The expected surge in demand for services as well as the new center in Golden Gate increase the need for community support. As a nonprofit, and the only federally qualified health center in Collier County, Healthcare Network is supported by a combination of patient reimbursements, federal funding, grants, and public and private philanthropic support.

In 2018, Healthcare Network provided $10.3 million in uncompensated care.

In 2019, 40% of the adult patients seen did not have any form of insurance, and 61% of children were covered by Medicaid.

We need your help to continue to meet the growing healthcare needs of our community. To learn how you can make a difference, visit HealthcareSWFL.org.

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NEAPOLITANfamily • May 2020

Visit Your Millennium Physician While You Stay Safe at Home

W

e have all been wondering whether it is safe to take our sick kids to the pediatrician’s office or visit our own doctor for a routine appointment. With Millennium Physician Group’s new telehealth system, we can stay safe at home while receiving care from our own healthcare providers.

Three weeks after launching its MPG Connect platform to dampen the spread of COVID-19, Millennium hit 20,000 telehealth visits. MPG Connect is unique in that it connects Millennium’s 450,000 patients with their physicians, which is a departure from most telehealth services that use third-party healthcare providers who don’t know the patients nor have their medical records on hand.

“Our technology not only connects patients who should or want to stay home with the doctors who know them best, but it also allows our doctors to practice medicine while quarantined in what we’re calling reverse telehealth” said Millennium Chief Innovation Officer Jeffrey Nelson. Millennium is conducting more than 1,350 virtual visits a day across the state using its proprietary platform – one that it owns and built from the cloud down, right here in Southwest Florida.

“Telehealth is the tool that allows us to strengthen the patientprovider relationship during this understandably concerning time while preserving our patients’ continuity of care. We’re especially vigilant about those with chronic conditions, like hypertension, diabetes, and COPD, for whom it’s particularly important to stay connected with their doctor and on top of their health,” said Millennium Chief Medical Office Alejandro Perez-Trepichio, MD. All you need to connect to your physician is a computer, smartphone, or tablet. New and existing patients can call their nearest doctor’s office, 844-CALL-MPG, or go online to MillenniumPhysician. com to request a telehealth visit.

NEAPOLITANfamily • May 2020

A lifelong joy of learning, An education for life.

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EDUCATION

By Amanda Sterk, Ed.D.

W

e are all living in a world of unknowns right now. One of the areas that many families are unsure about is what the closures of schools, extracurricular activities, and college testing does for students looking at the college admissions process. Many high school students are left in limbo waiting on more information on how COVID-19 will affect their college-bound futures.

Here are some tips on how to help your student navigate these tough times.

1. Your student is not alone. A very important detail in all of this is that while your student is thinking “Why me?!?”, they shouldn’t forget that all high school students in the United States and beyond are in the same position right now. Often in college admissions we want to hear about a student’s

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extenuating circumstance in why grades or test scores were lower or there were not as many extracurriculars on a resume. However, we all understand that everyone currently is in an “extenuating circumstance.” So try and reframe your student in considering that this is topic of discussions for colleges and programs throughout the country, and we all are taking steps to help students through this process.

2. Your student is not a test score or a grade-point average. In college admissions, it becomes easy to rely on a simple cut-score to determine admissions. Colleges are slowly diverging from this method to developing a more holistic review, which dives deeper into a student’s application, letters of recommendations, and essay, with many colleges going test optional. What admissions will be looking for are students who can demonstrate creativity, ingenuity, and leadership by finding new ways to express their interests.

3. Explore unique options of learning. Since the regular means of building resumes are not accessible, students are going to have to be more proactive and creative in how they can explore their passions and interests. With the closure of national

NEAPOLITANfamily • May 2020

parks, zoos, and museums many programs are going online and for free. There has been a large movement to offer free courses online for years. Through MOOCS (Massive Open Online Courses) students can explore courses from top colleges and busi-

All high school students in the United States and beyond are in the same position right now. nesses throughout the world. Students can take thousands of courses on topics such as physics, computer programming, animal health, and more. Use these courses for students to explore career options or learn more about unique subjects that interest them. For example, my seventh-grader is taking a course from the University of Chicago called “Understanding the Brain: The Neurobiology of Everyday Life” through Coursera (coursera.org).

4. Take this time to explore colleges.

Although campuses are closed, colleges are putting a lot of resources and time in virtual tours and webinars. Many selective colleges use demonstrated interest, which is the degree to which you show a college you are sincerely interested in their school, as part of their admissions process. Accessing these virtual tours can connect you with admission representatives at schools you are interested in to find out more about the college. This also is a great time to put together your college documents by starting to ask for letters of recommendation, creating your resume, and writing your essay.

While this is a difficult time, continue helping your student focus on their current academic standing and looking ahead at their future goals. Your student can continue to excel and stand out in the admissions process; they are just going to have to be a bit more creative!

For a step-by-step guide through the college process, visit www.unmaze.me.

AMANDA STERK, Ed.D., is the director of Accelerated Programs at Florida SouthWestern State College.

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The all-new Second Edition is the perfect guide for visitors, local families, classrooms, homeschool groups and libraries. Twice as many colorful photos and illustrations...more super-fun attractions and experiences... more freaky factoids and inside tips. Plus, all the websites and phone numbers you need. It’s absolutely, positively not just for kids! Available in the best bookstores, gift shops, and on amazon.com.

NEAPOLITANfamily • May 2020

Remember the fun of summer when you were a kid? Exploring the outdoors, spending time with friends, playing games and splashing in the pool? At the Naples YMCA Summer Day Camp, we create an exciting, safe environment for kids to have an unforgettable summer of fun!

Y SUMMER CAMP FOR AGES *5 - 13 Y KIDS: $100/WK | GUESTS: $125/WK DATES: JUNE 8 - AUGUST 7 TIME: 7:00 AM - 6:00 PM

Drop-off: 7:00 am - 9:00 am | Pick-up: 4:00 pm - 6:00 pm Summer Camp Details + Options + Registration can be found online at

GreaterNaplesYMCA.org/Camp.html

NEAPOLITANfamily • May 2020

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LET US CONNECT YOU TO NATURE Although our Nature Center is closed to the public, our education team remains hard at work to provide lessons, materials, and content for teachers, students, and families to learn about the importance of our Southwest Florida ecosystems.

Our virtual learning opportunities will allow audiences of all ages to have access to lesson plans, hands-on activities, scavenger hunts, and links to other resources. Our social media channels will also feature videos, trivia, and more interactive learning from afar. www.conservancy.org/virtual-learning

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NEAPOLITANfamily • May 2020