Neapolitan Family May 2022 Issue by Neapolitan Family

MAY 2022

COMPLIMENTARY

Special Grad ! Section

MOTHER’S DAY GIVEAWAY Win More Than $700 in Prizes SUMMER BREAK Sharing Custody Without Conflict #ONECHOICE How One Decision Changed a Family SUMMER SHELLING Visit Kice Island NEAPOLITANfamily • May 2022

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NEAPOLITANfamily • May 2022

“Educating the mind without educating the heart is no education at all.” –Aristotle

A-Rating Every Year Since Inception

ENROLL NOW for the 2022-2023 School Year! Visit our website to learn more.

TUITION-FREE K-12 School Top 1% of All Florida Public Schools Focus on Virtue and Knowledge

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

Classical Curriculum with Traditional Teaching Methods Proven Track Record Variety of AP Courses & Athletics “Knowledge is in every country the surest basis of public happiness.”

– George Washington

NEAPOLITANfamily • May 2022

https://masonacademy.com/ 3073 Horseshoe Dr. S., Naples South Campus 2647 Professional Cr., Naples North Campus 239-227-2838 Info@Masonacademy.com neafamily.com

May 2022

TABLE OF CONTENTS

in every issue . . . 7

FROM THE PUBLISHER

YOUR COMMUNITY

OUT & ABOUT

COLLIER COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOLS UPDATE

THE BOOK LIST

on the cover…

Mikayla Harris is a fun, smart, and energetic 5 year old with an abundance of personality. She loves playing soccer, golf, and tennis, as well as drawing and dancing. She is very excited to be graduating from VPK at Creative World and starting kindergarten at Mason Classical Academy in the fall. Thank you to Headquarters Regional Library in Naples for hosting our cover shoot!

Cover photo by Emily Brockelsby www.studioembr.com 239-331-0529

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Kids’ Corner. Discover a wealth of resources for new parents. by Andrea Stetson

Destination: Shelling. Search for giant horse conchs on Kice Island. by Karen T. Bartlett

Building Self-Esteem. Learn how to boost your kids’ sense of worth. by Phara L. Morame

Special Graduation Section. Congratulations to the Class of 2022!

Contest! We are giving away a prize package for new parents worth more than $700. Find out how to enter.

40 #OneChoice. How one mom turned heartbreak into hope. by Karen Hanlon 44

Summer Visitation. Take the stress out of the process for everyone and create a special summer. by Kimberly Blaker

NEAPOLITANfamily • May 2022

I would be serving during a global pandemic, but I am so proud of When I was nearly 4 years ago, I could notwe have imagined our staff andelected students for meeting the challenges faced head-on. IDuring wouldthat be serving during a global pandemic, but I am so proud of time we:nearly 4 years ago, I could not have imagined When I was elected Whenour I was elected nearly 4 years ago, I could not have imagined staff and students for meeting the challenges we faced head-on. I would be serving during a global pandemic, butbut I am soso proud IDuring would be serving during a global pandemic, I am proudofof that time we: created multiple learning options for our students including in-person, our staff and students for meeting the challenges we faced head-on. our staff andonline, students for meeting the challenges we faced head-on. synchronous E-Collier Academy When I waswe: electedand nearly 4 years ago, I could not have imagined During that time DuringImultiple that time we:nearly created learning options forago, our students including in-person, When was elected years I could not have imagined I would be serving during a4global but I am so proud of '""'J Created preserved the student experience bypandemic, ensuring access to clubs, sports, multiple learning options for our students including in-person, synchronous synchronous online, and E-Collier Academy When I was elected nearly 4 years ago, I could not have imagined online, and E-Collier Academy. I would be serving during a global pandemic, but Iwe amfaced so proud of band, theater, and orchestra our staff and students for meeting head-on. created multiple learning options forthe ourchallenges students including in-person, '""'J Preserved preserved the student experience by ensuring access to clubs, sports, I would be serving during a global pandemic, but I am so proud of the student experience by ensuring access to clubs, sports, band, theater, our staff and students for meeting the challenges we faced head-on. During that time we: synchronous online, and E-Collier Academy '""'J and distributed thousands of computers and wifi hotspots to our students orchestra. band, theater, and orchestra our staff andas students for meeting the challenges we faced head-on. During time we: and families, well as over 14 million meals When I that was nearly years ago, I could not have imagined '""'J Distributed preserved theelected student experience byhotspots ensuring access to clubs, sports, thousands of computers and Wi-Fi to our students and families, created multiple learning options for our students including in-person, During that time we: '""'J asdistributed of computers and wifi hotspots toso our students When I was elected nearly years pandemic, ago, I could notI am have imagined Iwell would be1thousands serving during a4global but proud of as over million meals.

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During that time we: synchronous online, and E-Collier Academy and families, as well as million meals '"":) outperform the state inover all 21 tested areas for the firstto ever band, theater, and orchestra I would be serving during a1to global but so proud of '""'J Outperform preserved the student bypandemic, ensuring access clubs, sports, the state in all 21experience tested areas for the first time ever.I am increase our graduation rate a record high 92.7% During that time we: band, theater, and orchestra '""'J preserved the experience byand ensuring access to clubs, sports, As a result, westudent were able to: our staff and students for meeting the challenges we faced head-on. our A-rated district status. created multiple learning options for our students including in-person, '""'J Maintain distributed thousands computers wifi to ourever students '"":) outperform the state inofall 21 tested areas forhotspots the first time '""'J band, theater, and orchestra increase our graduation rate to a record high 92.7% synchronous online, and E-Collier Academy During that time we: and families, as well asof over 1COLLIER million meals multiple learning options forand our students including '""'J created distributed thousands computers wifi hotspots to ourin-person, students FROM A FINANCIAL STANDPOINT, COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOLS IS: synchronous online, and E-Collier Academy and families, as well as over 1 million meals '""'J distributed thousands of computers and wifi hotspots to our students '"":) outperform the state in all 21 tested areas for the first time ever '""'J On preserved the student experience by ensuring access to clubs, sports, track to be debt-free by 2026. As a result, we were able to: created multiple learning options for our students including in-person, and families, asand well as over 1tomillion meals band, theater, orchestra increase our graduation rate a record high 92.7% for the new high school, which will save taxpayers an estimated '""'J Paying preserved the student experience by ensuring access to clubs, sports, As a cash result, we were able to: "') Paying cash for the new high school which will save taxpayers an estimated synchronous online, and E-Collier Academy $41 million dollars in interest payments. '""'J band, theater, and orchestra increase our graduation rate to a record high 92.7% $41 million dollars in interest payments As a result, we were able to: '""'J outperform distributed thousands computers wifi ourever students '"":) the state inofall 21 tested and areas forhotspots the first to time '""'J preserved the student experience by ensuring access sports, The only cash district in the new state high to pass atoTAX NEUTRAL referendum ...to weclubs, didn’t ask increase our graduation rate a record high 92.7% "') Paying for the school which will save taxpayers an... estimated "') The only district in the state to pass a TAX NATURAL referendum we didn't and families, as well as over 1 million meals '""'J for distributed thousands ofall computers and wifi hotspots to ourever students '"":) outperform the state in 21 testedto areas for thefrom firstthe time more money; weand simply asked permission move money capital side band, theater, orchestra $41 million dollars in interest payments ask for more money, we permission to move money from the and as were well as over million mealsfor the '"":) of outperform the state insimply allside 211asked tested areas first time ever thea families, budget towe the operational of the budget. As result, able "') Paying cash forthe the newstate high school which will save an... estimated capital side of budget to to: the operational side of taxpayers the budget "') The only district in the to pass a TAX NATURAL referendum we didn't '""'J distributed thousands of computers and wifi hotspots to our students '""'J to increase our graduation rate to a record high 92.7% $41 million dollars in interest payments It has been the honor of my lifetime serve the students of Collier County, and I hope I can count on your votethe As a result, we were able to: ask for more money, we simply asked permission to move money from and families, as well as over 1 million meals on August 23rd to continue the forward progress we have made. '""'J increase our rate to a record high capital side of graduation the budget to the operational side92.7% of the budget ... we didn't "') The only district in the state to a TAX NATURAL referendum '"":) outperform the state in all 21pass tested areas for the first time ever "') ask Paying cash for the new high school which will save an estimated As a result, we were able to: for more money, we simply asked permission to taxpayers move money from the Website: www.votejenmitchell.com Cell#: 239-216-2056 Email:votejenmitchell@gmail.com '"":) outperform the state in all 21 tested areas for the first time ever million dollars in interest payments '""'J $41 increase our graduation rate to a record high 92.7% side of to the operational side of taxpayers the budget "') capital Paying cash forthe thebudget new high school which will save an -estimated PAID FOR BY JEN MITCHELL FOR SCHOOL BOARD DISTRICT 3 $41 million dollars in interest payments "') The Paying cash for the new highto school which will save taxpayers an... estimated only district in the state pass a TAX NATURAL referendum we didn't

'"":) outperform the state in all 21 tested areas for the first time ever

$41 for million dollars in we interest ask more money, simply asked permission to move money the "') The only district in the state topayments pass a TAX NATURAL referendum ...from we didn't capital side ofmoney, the budget to theasked operational side of the budget ask for more we simply permission to move money from the "') The only district in the state to pass a TAX NATURAL referendum... we didn't "') capital Paying cash for the new high school which will save taxpayers an estimated side of the budget to the operational side of the budget ask for more money, we simply asked permission to move money from the $41 million in interest payments "') capital side dollars of to the operational side of taxpayers the budget Paying cash forthe thebudget new high school which will save an estimated

There is still time to sign up for summer camp! "') "') "')

$41 only million dollars in interest The district in the state topayments pass a TAX NATURAL referendum... we didn't ask for more money, we simply asked permission to taxpayers move money from the Paying cash for the new high school which will save an... estimated The only district in the state to pass a TAX NATURAL referendum we didn't capital side of the budget to the operational side of the budget $41 million dollars in interest payments ask for more money, we simply asked permission to move money from the

2022

capital side of the to to the operational side of the budget ... we didn't "') The only district inbudget the state pass a TAX NATURAL referendum ask for more money, we simply asked permission to move money from the capital side of the budget to the operational side of the budget

Scan here to find all of the information you need to find the perfect camp for your kids in our Summer Camp 2022 Guide. NEAPOLITANfamily • May 2022

NEAPOLITANfamily • April 2022

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CONGRATS TO OUR VPK GRADUATES CLASS OF 2022!

Your child deserves the BEST! Creative Learning Outstanding Education Nurturing Environment

For more information or to schedule a tour: 239-455-3227 preschool@naplestemple.org

Music - Art - Storyland Science - Mini Market Gymnastics - Playground Outdoor Classroom - VPK Baby & Me

Temple Shalom Preschool 4630 Pine Ridge Road Naples, FL 34119

WWW.TEMPLESHALOMPRESCHOOLNAPLES.ORG 6

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NEAPOLITANfamily • May 2022

from the publisher… the parenting magazine devoted to collier county

P.O. Box 110656 Naples, FL 34108 info@neafamily.com 2021

2021

2020

2021

THIS MONTH Time to Celebrate

2020

Co-Publisher Stacy Nicolau snicolau@neafamily.com 239-370-5333

While some may think the November and December holidays make for the busiest and most memorable events of the year, I think that May’s memories are more magical and bittersweet. And maybe even busier.

Co-Publisher Leigh Ann Newman lanewman@neafamily.com 239-272-0529

There’s Teacher Appreciation Week and graduations, which remind us of the end of a school year, moving up, and moving on. Moms of preK graduates can’t believe their baby is moving up to the big elementary school and moms of high school graduates find themselves holding onto at the last days of their children’s childhood. With endless awards ceremonies, concerts, and end-of-school year celebrations, we find ourselves rushing to be present for all of it, only to find it come to a screeching halt with the last day of school.

Travel Editor Karen T. Bartlett mostlykidsguides@gmail.com 239-595-9026

Neapolitan Family is pleased to help congratulate our community’s newest high school graduates, who spent much of their high school years navigating a pandemic. Turn to page 27 to see our mini senior yearbook section, and celebrate the success of where many of them are headed in the fall.

Feature Writers Anna Snyder Andrea Stetson

Mother’s Day is a time to celebrate all kinds of moms: new moms, grandmothers, stepmoms, and other caregivers who stepped in to help us become the people we are today.

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 distribution points throughout Collier County, as well as digitally at https://neafamily.com. Neapolitan Family is ©2022 by Neapolitan Family Publishing LLC. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part without written permission is strictly prohibited. NEAPOLITANfamily • May 2022

We also are so excited to help celebrate expectant and brand-new parents with our Mother’s Day Giveaway contest, where we will shower one lucky family with more than $700 in baby gifts. Details on the prize package and how to enter are on page 38. One mom we are so inspired by is Becky Savage, who discovered the morning after graduation that two of her sons had made a very unfortunate choice. On page 40, learn how she turned heartbreak into hope to save the lives of teens and people everywhere with #OneChoice. And, finally, there is Memorial Day, which recognizes the sacrifice of those who fearlessly fought for our freedom, while also celebrating the official start to summer. As always, our issue is full of tips for parenting all ages, family-friendly events, and information about the best summer camps in Southwest Florida. To see our summer camp directory, go to https://neafamily.com and click on the directories tab. Happy Mother’s Day and congratulations to everyone for making it through another school year!

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YOUR COMMUNITY NEWS & EVENTS

Bloom where you are Planted Students at the Village School of Naples participate in a ceremonial first walk around the school’s new track.

Village School of Naples Unveils New Track and Field Facility

T Let the Albert Real Estate Team take care of all your real estate needs. Contact us to start your homebuying journey!

T R AC EY AL B ERT R E A LT O R ®

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D O W N I N G - F R Y E R E A LT Y, I N C . 8950 FONTANA DEL SOL WAY, SUITE 100, NAPLES, FL 34109

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he Village School of Naples recently celebrated the completion of its new $1.8 million track and field facility. The project includes a 400-meter synthetic track with an interior competition field for other sports, such as soccer, lacrosse, and football. The project, which broke ground last fall, is part of an ongoing $3 million renovation and expansion of the school’s academic, arts and athletic facilities. Included in the most recent campus improvements are a near doubling of space in the two-story upper school building to provide more classrooms and administrative offices, as well as a new culinary arts test kitchen. Also within the upper school is the Lauren S. Tayon Drama Studio, with a large main stage area along with rehearsal space, music rooms, storage, and dining/theater seating for plays and other performances. Future phases of outdoor athletic facilities could include six lighted tennis courts adjacent to the new track, along with accessory fields that could be used for such sports as javelin, discus and shot-put. There also could be additional practice fields. The Village School of Naples is an independent school serving students in preschool through 12th grade. The school currently has more than 100 upper school students, including 18 in the class of 2022. For additional information, visit www.villageschoolnaples.org.

DLC Celebrates Mental Health Month With Family Event

avid Lawrence Centers for Behavioral Health is hosting its first Mind Your Mind Community Day on May 15 from 8-11 a.m. at Cambier Park in Naples. The community is invited to join DLC for a morning of fun, family-friendly wellness activities for all ages, including yoga, fitness, art and pet therapy, and more. NEAPOLITANfamily • May 2022

This event is part of DLC’s year-long Mind Your Mind initiative to encourage the community to prioritize mental health in 2022. “The conversation around mental health and well-being has never been more relevant,” said Scott Burgess, DLC president and chief executive officer. “And the need to prioritize our mental wellbeing has never been more important. In addition to improving access to evidence-based treatment, DLC is committed to promoting how to prevent a mental health crisis and intervene early when symptoms arise.” For more information, visit https://DLCMindYourMind.org.

Community School of Naples Celebrates 40th Anniversary

tudents, faculty, and staff of Community School of Naples gathered recently in the John N. Allen Family Stadium to celebrate the school’s 40th anniversary. The ceremony included performances by the upper school band, middle school vocal workshop students, and varsity cheerleaders, as well as speeches by a student representative from each division. During his speech, fifth grader Kayden Robinson noted that “CSN certainly provides courage. Whether that means being ready for the next school year, or standing in front of a thousand people giving a speech, both require courage.” Founding CSN board members in attendance included

Juliet Collier Sproul, Clarke Swanson, and Tony Ridgway. “Their presence here today stands as testament to the determination and hard work, which was so necessary in those crucial early founding years. It was their bold vision and uncommon commitment that laid the foundation for the storied history of your school,” said John Allen, current CSN board president. “You can learn as much in a tent as you can in a cathedral, given two Community School of Naples student things: the right teachers Kayden Robinson delivers a speech and the right attitude during CSN’s 40th anniversary celebration. to learning from those being taught. And that is the key to our tremendous pride in what has been achieved at Community School over the past four decades.” Community School of Naples, established in 1982, is an independent preK-12 school. For additional information, visit www. communityschoolnaples.org.

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

Three Locations to Serve You. BONITA SPRINGS

9510 Bonita Beach Rd. Ste. 101

239.333.2990

CAPE CORAL

1508 S.E. 12th Terrace

239.322.5222

PORT CHARLOTTE

3872 Tamiami Trail, Unit D&E

941.391.8090

Hear Ye, Hear Ye! Join us for VBS!

June 27 - July 1, 2022 Register at:

naplesbaptist.com/vbs2022

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Dance With Us This Summer!

YOUR COMMUNITY NEWS & EVENTS

CAMPS CLASSES INTENSIVES

The top finishers in the 2022 Optimist Club of Naples Spelling Bee (l-r): Melany Leon (third place), Lily Wright (second place), and Naresh Ram (first place).

Join the Fun! www.naplesdancearts.com 239-513-6999

A lifelong joy of learning, An education for life. INFANT TODDLER CHILDREN’S HOUSE VPK ELEMENTARY

Call to schedule a private tour

239-597-2255

More information can be found on our website

www.naplesmontessori.org 2655 Northbrooke Drive Naples, Florida 34119 License #C20CO0132

Daily hours from 7:30 A.M. to 5:30 P.M.

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Oakridge Middle School Student Heading to National Spelling Bee

aresh Ram, an eighth grader at Oakridge Middle School, won the 2022 Optimist Club of Naples Spelling Bee, hosted by Collier County Public Schools. Ram will compete at the 2022 Scripps National Spelling Bee this summer near Washington, D.C. The semifinals on June 1 and the finals on June 2 will be televised on national networks ION and Bounce. The local competition featured 32 students – the top two spellers from spelling bees at 16 schools in Collier County. Lily Wright, a seventh grader at St. Ann School, took second place, and Melany Leon, a sixth grader at Corkscrew Middle School, captured third.

Prospective Students Explore SWFL Music Education Center

new music education center that will provide postsecondary opportunities for musically talented neurodivergent young adults in Southwest Florida invited the public and potential students to its first event to learn more about what the center has to offer. The Southwest Florida Music Education Center was inspired by the Berklee Institute for Arts Education and Special Needs of the Berklee College of Music in Boston. Parent Hetty Weinstein said seeing her son Michael playing guitar with other potential students at the session brought tears to her eyes. “My son loves music, and this gives him a chance to feel like he’s part of something,” she said. “He’s always wanted to go to college, but with his disability has been unable to. This is such a gift for the community. We thought we might need to leave here for a place with more services, but here we are, right in our back yard.” Nancy Gardella said she is also thrilled to have an opportunity for her son Jonathan, who plays violin. NEAPOLITANfamily • May 2022

“Berklee is one of the finest music schools, and to have their expertise connected to my son’s particular disability and to meet the students where they are is a priceless opportunity,” she said. “Finally, there is something for people who have disabilities but also talent.” Since 2019, SWFLMEC has offered small-scale, low-cost collaborative music education for neurodivergent and neurotypical peers through a program called The Creative Group. This fall, the center will begin offering two-year and four-year postsecondary

music certificates at Artis-Naples’ Toni Stabile Education Building, focusing on core areas of musical skill development for students who learn differently than their typical peers. “We’ve been collaborating since the start with The Creative Group, and then having it grow into a partnership with Berklee for a certificate program is natural to what we do here,” said Kathleen van Bergen, chief executive officer and president of Artis-Naples. “It adds so much to our community.” Phase two of the project will include a new campus, student living center, and dormitory for which the center currently is seeking funding. For more information, contact Jennifer Clark at JenC@ SWFLmusic.org or 239-205-8258 or visit https://swflmusic.org.

• Top Rated VPK Program • Preschool Classes for 2-5 Year Olds

Prospective students at a recent Southwest Florida Education Center event receive instruction from Hannah Fan (right), the center’s director of music education.

• Summer Camp

• Owned/Operated by a Certified Teacher with 25 Years Experience

DCF license #C20CO7400

868 94th Ave. N. Naples, FL 34108

www.LittlePeoplesSchool.info

Camp Collier A Sweet Theme Each Week!

3 Musketeers • Jolly Ranchers • Milky Way • Baby Ruth Nerds & Smarties • Life Savers • Peppermint Patty Gummy Bears • Now & Later Elementary School Day Camp (children grades K – 5th Grade) Middle School Day Camp (children grades 6th – 8th Grade) Day Camps - Monday, June 6 – Friday, August 5, 2022 Monday – Friday, 9:00am – 5:00pm Cost is $85 per week Discounted cost for the full 9 weeks is $600 (Payment plan is available in four payments of $150) (Siblings are offered a 10% discount four payments of $135) Before & After Camp - 7:15am – 9:00am and 5:00pm – 6:00pm Cost is $15 per week Register Online For Collier County Parks & Recreation Summer Camps •Register online, go to collierparks.com and click on “Browse & Register for Activites Search” •Sign in or create an account •If you don’t have an account, you can refer to “Online Registration How To’s”, available online by clicking the “Programs & Registration” Link

Online Registration Available Now In Person Registration Begins April 1, 2022 For more information visit collierparks.com or call (239)252-4000

NEAPOLITANfamily • May 2022

Elementary School Day Camp Locations Middle School Day Camp Locations •Big Corkscrew Island Regional Park •Donna Fiala Eagle Lakes Community Park •East Naples Community Park •Golden Gate Community Center •Immokalee Community Park •Immokalee South Park •Max A. Hasse Jr. Community Park •North Collier Regional Park (Low Ratio Camp) •Veterans Community Park •Vineyards Community Park

•East Naples Community Park •Golden Gate Community Center •North Collier Regional Park

Specialty Camps

•Sailing - Sugden Regional Park •Skiing - Sugden Regional Park •Pee Wee Sports - Vineyards Community Park •Sports - North Collier Regional Park

Adaptive Inclusive Recreation Day Camp •Golden Gate Community Park

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YOUR COMMUNITY NEWS & EVENTS

Local Kids Display Entrepreneurial Skills at New Biz Kidz Expo

Above: The owner of Big Boy Bakery displays his prize for capturing the Junior Division of the 2022 Biz Kidz Expo at last month’s event. Right: A Breath of Fresh Air produced planters in the shape of elephants, cats, and more with a 3D printer at the expo.

ith nearly 50 kidpreneurs and 25 area business sponsors, the inaugural Biz Kidz Expo held in April in Naples was a huge success. Competing for top prizes of up to $1,000 plus personalized business coaching services in each division, kids ages 7-17 hustled their products ranging from baked goods, pet accessories, clothing, and computer services to farm fresh eggs. Attendees were treated to enthusiastic presentations by the eager kid vendors, and opened their wallets or cash apps to purchase their unique and useful products. Event organizer J.D. Ribali is the founder of Top Notch Home Pros, a referral agency of vetted local businesses and services and publisher of Top Notch Living. He also runs Top Notch University, an entrepreneur training program, to help people not only develop their products and services, but to effectively run their businesses. An entrepreneur since the age of 7 when he sold vegetables from his mother’s garden, Ribali channeled his passion for entrepreneurship into this event to support and nurture future business owners in our community. “It’s all about letting kids sell their product or services, pitch their ideas to the judges – kind of like a mini “Shark Tank” – and get an opportunity to win prizes to launch their business or take it to the next level.”

WE'RE NOT JUST

REAL ESTATE AGENTS

WE'RE ALSO

parents

Chris Farrugia, Realtor®

Laney Farrugia, Realtor®

239.248.8171

239.784.3509

Chris@ListingNaples.com

Laney@ListingNaples.com

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CALL US

TO FIND YOUR FAMILY'S

next home

NEAPOLITANfamily • May 2022

NACS Naples Adventist Christian School

We are a K-8th grade school centrally located in Naples. We are proud to have a committed staff teaching a nationally certified and accredited curriculum in a Christ-filled environment. We accept Step Up For Students and Florida Empowerment scholarships. The NACS family exists to show children Jesus, teach them to think, and empower them to serve. All students are welcome!

Top prizes in the Senior Division went to Taste Culture, Smoolicioso, and Kacis Cakes and Bakes. The Junior Division winners were Big Boy Bakery, Bear’s Cards 52, and Tasty Treats for Dogs. Neapolitan Family was proud to be a sponsor of this event.

NEAPOLITANfamily • May 2022

Contact us to schedule a visit, or explore online. 2629 S. Horseshoe Drive, Naples, FL 34104 239-261-NACS (6227) • nacs@flcoe.org www.NaplesACS.org

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KIDS’ CORNER

By Andrea Stetson

Local Resources for New Moms

t’s all about loving and learning for Katie White, who along with her husband, Rick, became parents this March. “It’s definitely exciting,” the new mom said. “And there’s a lot of learning to do.” White is learning how to breastfeed her new son Jaxson, she is learning about diaper rash, and she’s learning how to stop worrying about every little thing. She is learning from her mother, from friends, from a lactation expert at the hospital, and from the internet. Katie says there are a lot of resources online, but her favorite is Reddit. “You can post on a topic and you can ask questions anonymously,” White explained. “A lot of what I have been learning is about breastfeeding, and it is a lot to learn and get the hang of. There are a lot of resources and there is the lactation consultant. My mom’s been really helpful. I have become closer to friends who have kids, and you learn all the ins and outs. Every day I learn as I go.” There are a lot of resources out there for first time moms like White, and even for more experienced moms. The Le Leche League of Naples just went back to in-person indoor meetings after more than two years of virtual or outdoor gatherings. Leaders are experienced mothers who have breastfed their own children and have been trained and accredited to help others. Laurie Owens is

New mom Katie White with baby Jaxson. one of the local leaders. “It builds community,” Owens said of Le Leche meetings. “It lets mothers see others breastfeed. I think that mothers that have the least doubts and the least trouble are the ones that come here. A lot of times mothers will come in with 10 problems and the next month they are the ones helping mothers.” New moms don’t just get help at meetings; they can get advice by phone from Le Leche anytime. North Collier Hospital offers many

free classes for new parents. “We get a lot of new moms,” said Emma Handsel, women and children’s community educator at North Collier Hospital. “I tell the first-time moms to take them all because they are free of charge.” Right now the classes are virtual due to the pandemic, but Handsel expects them to be in person soon. The infant safety course includes everything from car seat safety, swim safety, pet safety, poisons, and childproofing a home to CPR and what to do if a baby is choking. The hospital also has breastfeeding lessons and a baby care class that teaches all the basics including how to change diapers, safe sleep, how to sooth your baby when they are upset, and more. North Collier Fire Control and Rescue also offers a free CPR class that includes infant CPR. “Even for a trained professional, when there is an infant involved in an emergency situation, the stress level can be very high,” said Heather Mazurkiewicz, public education/information officer at NCFR. “Now add to the fact that you are a new parent and this is your child – anything you can do to better prepare for an emergency, the better the outcome will be and the better prepared you are to handle those situations.” She noted that choking also is covered in the classes, and explained that choking is a more common occurrence than an actual cardiac event for infants.

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The free classes are not for certification. “Most people don’t need the certification; they just need the skills,” Mazurkiewicz said. “We just believe very strongly the more people that know CPR, the more resilient we can be as a community. Early CPR can triple somebody’s chances of survival.” Florida Safety & CPR offers CPR and safety classes privately in your home or in a classroom at Whiz Kids in Naples. Owner Scott Cutting says he often goes to someone’s home and does the program for both parents and grandparents. The class includes infant CPR and choking. For the noncertification program, Cutting makes it affordable at $20 for one student or $25 for a couple. For about $100 he will come to your home and do the class for a group of family members and friends. Cutting says knowing what to do when a child is choking is especially important. “You can’t really foresee it,” he stressed. “There is nothing you can do to prevent that from happening. Even with the most diligent of parents, it can happen.” With drowning being the number one

killer of children under age 4 in Florida, Cutting says knowing CPR is also important. He uses interactive mannequins to help his students understand how to correctly perform CPR. “After class, as soon as you walk out that door, you have more confidence,” Cutting concluded. The NCH Safe & Healthy Children’s Coalition of Collier County stresses the need for parents to be informed about water safety. It provides a host of websites to learn about everything from baby swim classes to pool barriers and CPR. White is a physical therapist, so she’s had the CPR and first aid training. But there still were so many things to learn. She turned to her mother, friends, and the internet when her son got diaper rash and when he got sticky eye. She had questions such as how long to have him in the sitting position. “The pediatrician is also there, but Google is right there on your phone and it is so easy to consult Google,” White said. “It’s kind of nice having the home care background. Even though I am not a doctor, I have some familiarity with

medical things, but I am not an expert. I definitely look things up as I go every day.” But there’s one thing White doesn’t need help with, and that is love. “It’s just a really great experience being around him,” she stressed. “I’m just watching him right now while he’s napping in the bassinet. It’s really cool to see how he is like me and like my husband, and he is this little person that you grow so attached to right away.”

Quick Links Florida Safety & CPR www.floridasafecpr.com Le Leche League of Naples www.lllflorida.com/naples NCH https://nchmd.org/ prenatal-class-registration North Collier Fire and Rescue www.northcollierfire.com Safe & Healthy Children’s Coalition www.safehealthychildren.org

Children’s Montessori School SUMMER CAMP

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TRAVEL

By Karen T. Bartlett

Shelling on Kice Island

his is a real picture. It’s a real kid, real water, and – yes – a real seashell. Don’t even think about rolling your eyes like I did the first time I saw it. I mean, we all know about Photoshop, right? But here’s the thing: Horse conchs are the largest marine snails in the Atlantic Ocean, and their giant shells seem to roll in with the tide on a particular sandy beach in the Ten Thousand Islands more than anyplace else in Florida. The place is Kice Island, 2 miles long on the gulf side, with a muddy mangrove forest on the north end and a sandy beach for swimming and horse-conch seeking on the south end. While Mother Nature guarantees nothing, experienced shellers say that after a storm has stirred up the seabeds – especially during a full or new moon – you have an excellent chance of finding one of these Jurassic-size mollusks. You need only to wade knee to waist deep in the clear shallow water and dig around with your toes to find one buried in the sand. You may find lightning whelk shells, sand dollars, and angel wings bleached by a century or two of salt and sun camouflaged in the soft sand at the dune line, or nine-armed sea stars, the abandoned exoskeletons of horseshoe crabs, jewel-colored scallops, and other small shells freshly washed by the ebb and flow of the tide. When I first started shelling on Sanibel Island, the horse conch was my very favorite. It was the candy corn of the sea: an inch or two long, lemon yellow or bright orange, with a tiny white candy Shelling photos courtesy of Treasure Seekers Shell Tours, https://treasureseekersshelltours.com.

corn tip. I had no clue that those were just the babies. It turns out that full-grown horse conchs easily measure 15-18 inches or longer. If you find one empty of its original occupant (except in Everglades National Park or other protected areas) you can take it home. At the mangrove forest end of Kice Island you’ll find unblemished Florida fighting conchs in colors from sunset orange to chocolate brown, and quahog (clam) and oyster shells like the Calusa Indians first harvested as food and then used to build their shell mounds and weapons more than 2,000 years ago. The stormravaged mangroves are harsh ecosystems that are unlikely to show up on the cover of a vacation-in-paradise brochure, which is exactly why millions of shells – including a fair number of sought-after junonias – languish undiscovered for years. So it couldn’t have been more perfect, the day of a full pink moon, when Randy and I join four other adult shell-seekers aboard the Treasure Seekers Shell Tours boat with Capt. Matt at the helm and shell expert Amanda for a four-hour shelling experience. The plan is to hit the mangrove end first, where the previous night’s rainstorm-tossed waters may have stirred up the muddy beds to deliver a fresh bounty. After a couple of hours there, we’ll take the five-minute boat ride to the smooth sand beach for a refreshing swim and some horse conch seeking. On our way back, we may stop briefly at another uninhabited island, and some dolphins will dance in our wake. Here’s what really happened. We opted for the 7:30 a.m. tour, which means that the vampire-like no-see-ums were waiting to

Horse conchs

Whelk shell casing photo by Karen T. Bartlett. 16

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NEAPOLITANfamily • May 2022

sive u l e e h t g n i Find nteus a g i G s u s u f lo Trip torture anyone not properly slathered with eco-friendly repellent until full sunlight banished them to their dark hiding places. We grab our mesh shell bags and sunscreen, descend a short ladder, and wade ankle-deep about 10 feet from the boat to shore. Our eyes are on our feet as we tiptoe gingerly between twisted mangrove roots and slippery stumps left behind by Hurricane Irma. When we finally dare to look up, we see what we came for: hundreds of fighting conchs deposited like a line of soldiers by the receding tide. Beyond that, on a slight shell-and-sand incline, piles and piles of shells as much as a foot deep, as far as our eyes can see. It’s almost too much to absorb at once. For the first hour, we’re all over the place, like toddlers on an Easter egg hunt. But there’s no rush, as we and another small group from Treasure Seekers are the only people here. We learn to do what veteran shellers do – we choose a huge pile, sit down, and delicately rake with our fingers. Hidden below the monochromatic top layer we find purple calico scallops, alphabet cones, shiny olive shells, sunray Venus clams, tulip shells, and more. I find a snake-like egg casing that once held as many as 20,000 tiny whelk hatchlings. Amanda, who also is the author of a book on shelling and can identify every shell and its backstory, keeps us hydrated with water and layered in fresh sunscreen. There’s no shelter, so the hats and long-sleeved sun shirts that helped against the vampire creatures now protect against the harsh sun. My pile of treasures has outgrown my shell bag, but I’m like a kid with a foot-long ice cream sundae: a grownup really must make me stop. A young family motors in with their guide to spend about NEAPOLITANfamily • May 2022

Whelk shell casing an hour shelling in the mangroves before heading down to the beach end so the boys can cool off with some water play. That sounds great to me, especially because I’m ready to find my very first giant horse conch. But this is not to be, on this trip anyway. The tide has changed, and the boat keeps drifting out, so we’re wading farther and deeper this time, feeling our way through slippery muck, and navigating around deep holes hidden beneath the murky surface. At least two of us, plus one underwater camera, take an unexpected plunge. The people pop up laughing, but despite the use of snorkels, the camera isn’t found. Since there’s really no place for it to go here in the backwaters, it may wash up on the next tide. Local guides are on alert. So, to wrap up: no-see-ums, toe-stubbing mangrove stumps, slippery tidal pools, lost camera. Plus, time flew by, and we didn’t make it to the other beaches. A terrible day, right? Nope, it was a beautiful blue-sky day, I added some great specimens to my fossil shell collection, and there’s nothing more glorious than a boat ride in the Ten Thousand Islands. It was the perfect lost-in-time adventure, and somewhere out there a Triplofusus Giganteus still has my name on it. Stay tuned.

If you go:

While Kice Island is only a 25-minute boat ride from the Goodland boat ramp on Marco Island, it’s surrounded by shallow channels and hidden sandbars that are best negotiated by experienced captains. Sturdy water shoes and cover-ups are essential. Each tour company has a different style: Some are biologist or master naturalist-led; some provide shell buckets, and prices vary. Families with young children might prefer a two-hour tour and a later departure to avoid no-seeums, starting with a brief visit to the mangrove side, leaving more time for the beach side and extra sightseeing time on the boat. neafamily.com

YOUR FAMILY’S HEALTH

By Phara L. Morame, LCSW, MCAP, Healthcare Network

How to Build Self-Esteem in Children & Teens

nderstanding our own self-esteem can have practical significance. But what exactly is self-esteem? Self-esteem is an individual’s overall sense of personal value and self-worth or, simply, the measure of how much we like ourselves. Psychologist Carl Jung acknowledged that a vital part of what contributes to self-esteem is early experiences, which supports the important role that parents play in the development of positive intrinsic sense of self. Today, children and teens are at higher risk for developing identity crisis, confusion, and self-esteem problems more than ever. Factors that negatively influence self-esteem include: peers, bullying, constant negative feedback, socioeconomic status, immigrant parents who do not speak the local language, parents with substance use problem or severe mental illness, and pressure from social media. Research also found a strong correlation between low

self-esteem and puberty, due to changes such as acne, vocal pitch, and weight changes contributing to poor self-acceptance or self-love (Schaffhuser, Kathrin; Allemand, Mathias; and Schwarz, Beate, 2017). Low self-esteem can lead to: • Giving in to peer pressure • Joining a gang • Poor academic performance • Drugs and alcohol abuse • Trouble with the law • Promiscuity • Depression • Anxiety • Eating disorders Challenges In a fast-paced world, the daily demands of life can pull parents in all different directions, requiring time and energy they often don’t have. When these demands grow out of control, they may lead to stress leaving parents emotionally unavailable and exhausted. To raise confident and psychologically healthy children/ teens, parents must be present physically and emotionally. Once a person has developed a positive self-concept, that person is likely to exhibit behaviors that are consistent with that self-concept (Osborne, Randall E., Salem Press Encyclopedia of Health, 2021). Tips for parents/caretakers Be available. It is important for parents to have an open-door policy. If parents are unavailable, children will find someone who will listen and they may not be an ideal role model. Access to parents can boost self-esteem and set the stage for a healthy transition

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NEAPOLITANfamily • May 2022

into adulthood. Accept imperfection. Remember that you were once a kid. Instead of scolding or criticizing, try to validate their feelings while lifting them up. This way they won’t feel so alone. Give appropriate and timely feedback. A great way to help build positive self-esteem is by giving positive feedback when warranted. Positive and loving messages can penetrate layers of negative view of self and can be a great catalyst to building positive self-esteem. Instill positive values early. Having clear and defined values early in life help with self-identity and can strengthen self-esteem. If you wait until your child becomes a teenager to start having those conversations it can be more difficult. Model behavior. Children observe and learn from their parents every day, whether we like it or not. Because children copy how their parents react to situations, it is important that parents also develop and implement positive strategies to deal with stressful experiences. Lower the pressure. Do not try to live vicariously through your children. This level of pressure can fragment self-esteem. Allow your child/teen to choose the kind of activities they desire to engage in, which can help with increased pride, confidence, self-respect, and trust. Create intermittent social media detox. Media may portray unrealistic images or messages that can be detrimental to selfevaluation. Encourage time away for reflection and to strengthen self-esteem. Help your child understand that media content is often highly edited and filtered to show perfection. Tips for children/teens Practice self-compassion. The best thing you can do for yourself is to practice self-compassion: treating yourself with kindness and fairness. Have an attitude of self-acceptance, being nonjudgmental and free of criticisms. Be discerning. Have positive relationships. If someone does not respect you or your boundaries, they don’t deserve your time. Always treat yourself with respect and walk away from toxic relationships. Be yourself. Be open about who you are and your identity. However, understand that you are still developing, so do not be in a rush to assign yourself an identifier or label. Self-esteem is changeable. It’s never too late to develop a positive sense of self. Self-esteem can be affected by personal and professional disappointments as adults. Understanding that life is not always linear and accepting setbacks as part of the journey is an important message to pass on early. However, instilling positive self-esteem can be a delicate balance. Parents must be careful to not raise children who become consumed by perfection and are over confident to the point of arrogance. PHARA L. MORAME, LCSW, MCAP, has a bachelor’s degree in psychology, a master’s degree in social work, and is a Certified Master’s Level Addiction Professional. She is part of Healthcare Network’s integrated behavioral and mental health team and is fluent in Haitian Creole, French, and English. Celebrating 45 years of care, Healthcare Network is committed to providing healthcare to all, regardless of income or insurance status, visit healthcareswfl.org or call 239-658-3000. NEAPOLITANfamily • May 2022

Currently Enrolling – Register Today!! Providing a loving environment for children while offering parents and caregivers a needed break.

One- and Two-Day Options Available Monday-Thursday, 9 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. Ages 2-4 years by Aug. 1

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BACK TO SCHOOL EXPO ’22 Saturday, August 13 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

NEW LOCATION!

North Collier Regional Park Gym Booth registration is now open! Reserve your spot now Early bird discount expires June 15 Limited number of premium booths To register, scan QR code or visit https://neafamily.com For more information, email info@neafamily.com

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NEAPOLITANfamily • May 2022

OUT & ABOUT

SUNDAY

9 a.m. Golden Gate Community Farmers Market. Fresh produce, plants, pastries, seafood, prepared food, local honey, jewelry, and more. Located at Golden Gate Community Center, 4701 Golden Gate Pkwy., Naples. Check www.farmermarket2.com. 9 a.m. Spring Fling. This family-friendly event has a focus on animals, plants/produce, and our environment. Members only 9-11 a.m. Everyone welcome 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Located at Golisano Children’s Museum of Naples, 15080 Livingston Rd., Naples. Check https://cmon.org or call 239-514-0084. 10 a.m. First Sundays at the Preserve. Nature talks, arts & crafts for kids. Free admission; donations appreciated. Located at Gore Nature Education Center, 4261 40th Ave. SE, Naples. Check https://cclandkeepers.com or call 239-308-0281. 10 a.m. Free Admission for Bonita Springs Residents. Free entry with proof of residency. Located at Wonder Gardens, 27180 Old 41 Rd., Bonita Springs. Call 239-992-2591 or check https://wondergardens.org. 11 a.m. Food Truck Palooza. Food trucks, beer garden, live bands, entertainment, and a huge kids’ zone. Located at Temple Shalom, 4630 Pine Ridge Rd., Naples. Call 239-455-3227 or check www.templeshalompreschoolnaples.org.

Monday-Friday, May 2-6

Photo by Rachel Durik

TEACHER APPRECIATION WEEK. We all gained a renewed appreciation for our children’s teachers during the pandemic. This week, recognize their efforts and the amazing job they do every day.

in May 2022

TUESDAY

10 a.m. Mother’s Day Storytime and Craft. Stories, songs, and crafts. All ages. Registration not required. Located at Golden Gate Library, 2432 Lucerne Rd., Naples. Call 239-252-4549 or check www.collierlibrary.org.

Scuba ScubaSummer SummerCamps Camps Scuba Summer Camps PADI Seal Team: Ages 8-11 PADI Seal Team: Ages 8-11 PADI Seal Team: Ages 8-11

Junior Open Water Camp: Ages 10-17 Junior Open Water Camp: Ages 10-17 Junior Open Water Camp: Ages 10-17 239-280-5500 239-280-5500 239-280-5500 Info@ScubaOut.com Info@ScubaOut.com Info@ScubaOut.com ScubaOutfittersNaples.com ScubaOutfittersNaples.com ScubaOutfittersNaples.com NEAPOLITANfamily • May 2022

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PRIMARY & URGENT CARE SERVICE

INSURANCE PLANS WE ACCEPT:

NOW OPEN!

6:30 p.m. Read to Therapy Dogs. Read with a four-legged friend from K9 Caring Angels. Ages 5-11. Located at Bonita Springs Library, 26876 Pine Ave., Bonita Springs. Call 239-533-4860 or check www.leegov.com/library.

We Are Here When You Need Us EXTENDED HOURS (M-F): 8AM - 8PM | Saturday: 9AM - 2PM

Offering the Estero Community State of the Art Pediatric Care from Newborn to 21 years old including: • • • •

Walk ins welcome On Site Xray Covid Testing Immunizations

Located at Vanderbilt Beach Library, 788 Vanderbilt Beach Rd., Naples. Call 239252-7160 or check www.collierlibrary. org.

• ADHD Management • Behavioral Health • Specialist Referrals

10 a.m. Preschool Wednesday. Ages 3-5. Story, craft, and short hike or live animal encounter. Located at Calusa Nature Center, 3450 Ortiz Ave., Fort Myers. Check www.calusanature.org or call 239-275-3435.

10:30 a.m. Family Storytime. Stories, songs, and craft for all ages and caregivers. Registration not required. Located at Marco Island Library, 210 S. Heathwood Dr., Marco Island. Call 239-252-7064 or check www.collierlibrary.org.

STARZ PEDIATRICS Dr. Shahzaib Mirza 19910 S Tamiami Trail, Suite C, Estero Fl 33928

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10:30 a.m. Holocaust Museum Traveling Boxcar Exhibit. Learn about this authentic WWII-era railway boxcar, the type of car was used for deportations during the Holocaust. Registration not required. Located at Estates Library, 1266 Golden Gate Blvd. W., Naples. Call 239252-5135 or check www.collierlibrary.org. 10:30 a.m. No Dogs Allowed. Select dates through May 13. $20 for all ages, includes show and lunch. Located at Broadway Palm Dinner Theatre, 1380 Colonial 22

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THURSDAY

10 a.m. Little Explorers. Best for ages 18 months to 5 years. Multisensory, interactive activities, stories, and crafts. Located at Conservancy of SWFL, 1495 Smith Preserve Way, Naples. Call 239-2620304 or check https://conservancy.org.

Dr. Shahzaib Mirza

10:30 a.m. Family Storytime. Stories, songs, and activities. Registration required. Located at South Regional Library, 8065 Lely Cultural Pkwy., Naples. Call 239-2527542 or check www.collierlibrary.org.

WEDNESDAY

Blvd., Fort Myers. Visit https://broadwaypalm.com or call 239-278-4422. 11 a.m. Toddler Time. Songs, stories, and craft Tuesdays and Thursdays. Located at We Rock the Spectrum Kid’s Gym, 17640 S. Tamiami Tr., Fort Myers. Check www.werockthespectrumfortmyers.com or call 239-362-3378. 4:30 p.m. Avow Kids Creative Expression. Create art while interacting with an art therapist and peers. Located at Avow, 1095 Whippoorwill Ln., Naples. Call 239261-4404, email avowkids@avowcares. org, or check www.avowcares.org. Library hours. Mother’s Day Crafts. Through May 7. Make a Mother’s Day craft. All ages. Registration not required.

FRIDAY

6 p.m. Mother’s Day Tea Party. Enjoy refreshments, activities, and entertainment. Online or in-person registration required by May 3. Located at Vineyards Community Park, 6231 Arbor Blvd., Naples. Call 239-252-4105 or check www.collierparks.com/events. 6 p.m. Preschool Luau. For ages 3-5.5 years and their families. Aloha! Dance the night away at our Hawaiian preschool luau. Dancing, light refreshments, and photo opportunities. Registration required. Located at Golden Gate Community Park, 3300 Santa Barbara Blvd., Naples. Check www.collierparks.com/events or call 239-252-4180. 8 p.m. Family Comedy Night. Some of Southwest Florida’s best familyNEAPOLITANfamily • May 2022

friendly comedy. This month’s theme is “Way Off Broadway.” Located at The Naples Players, 701 Fifth Ave. S., Naples. Check https://naplesplayers.org or call 239-263-7990.

SATURDAY

7 a.m. Avow Youth and Adult Fishing Derby. All fishing will be done by shoreline and awards will be given. Teams must include an adult 18 or older and a youth younger than 18. Located at Lake Glenna at Avow, 1095 Whippoorwill Ln., Naples. Call 239-649-3683 or check www.avowcares.org/fish. 9 a.m. Free Admission for Collier County Residents. Present qualifying ID for free entry on the first Saturday of the month. Located at Naples Zoo, 1590 Goodlette-Frank Rd., Naples. Call 239262-5409 or check www.napleszoo.org. 10 a.m. Cinco De Mayo Maracas & Sombrero Cookies. Make your own maraca, followed by a cookie sombrero treat. Ages 2+. Registration not required. Located at Headquarters Library, 2385

Orange Blossom Dr., Naples. Check www.collierlibrary.org or call 239-2527371. 12 p.m. Pool Fiesta. Celebrate Cinco de Mayo with contests, including: taco eating, best dressed, musical chairs, dance off, and many more. Located at Golden Gate Community Park, 3300 Santa Barbara Blvd., Naples. Check www.collierparks.com/events or call 239-252-4180. 1 p.m. Autism Social Skills Playgroup from Family Initiative. A weekly opportunity for children with ASD to fit in, progress, make friends, and be happy. $20. Located at Christ Community Church, 4050 Colonial Blvd., Fort Myers. Call 239-910-0712, email info@fi-florida. org, or check www.fi-florida.org. 2 p.m. Saturday Movie Matinee: Encanto. All ages. Rated PG. Registration not required. Located at Immokalee Library, 417 N. First St., Immokalee. Check www.collierlibrary.org or call all 239252-7073.

SUNDAY

12 p.m. Mother’s Day Cruise. Moms cruise free when accompanied by a full-fare paid adult or child on sightseeing cruises departing at 12, 2, or 4 p.m. Located at Pure Florida, 1200 5th Ave. S., Naples. Check www.purefl.com or call 239-263-4949.

10 TUESDAY 6 p.m. Artify with Ms. Sharon. Ages 6-11. Explore new art projects or advanced techniques. Registration required. Located at Bonita Springs Library, 26876 Pine Ave., Bonita Springs. Call 239-5334860 or check www.leegov.com/library.

11 WEDNESDAY 10 a.m. All Aboard for Storytime. Explore transportation books with museum staff in our 1947 Budd train car. Ages 2-5. Registration required. Located at Naples Depot Museum, 1051 5th Ave. S., Naples. Check https://colliermuseums.com or call 239-252-8419.

Summer Arts Program FOR CHILDREN AND TEENS AGES 5 – 17

June 6 – July 29, 2022 An ARTScool classroom is a place where children’s imaginations come to life! Accredited art instructors guide students in arts activities incorporating math, science, language, history, and technology, with painting, drawing, mixed media, paper arts, clay, printmaking, assembling 3D sculptures, and more! 585 Park Street / Naples, Fl 34102 / 239.262.6517 NEAPOLITANfamily • May 2022

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12 THURSDAY

17 TUESDAY

3:30 p.m. Edible Crafts. Make and eat crafts! Registration is required. Located at Golden Gate Library, 2432 Lucerne Rd., Naples. Call 239-252-4549 or check www.collierlibrary.org.

8:15 p.m. Movies on the Lawn: Mama Mia. Gates open at 7:15 p.m. Free. Located at Mercato Shops, Naples. Call 239254-1080 or visit www.mercatoshops.com.

14 SATURDAY

21 SATURDAY

8 a.m. Girls on the Run 5K. This event is the culmination of the year for GOTR participants, and is open to the public. Located at Martin Luther King Jr. Administrative Building, 5775 Osceola Tr., Naples. Check www.gotrswfl.org/5k-Detail-3 or call 239-7773720. 8 a.m. Mind Your Mind Community Day. David Lawrence Centers for Behavioral Health is hosting a family day of yoga, fitness, art and pet therapy, activities, food vendors, and more. Located at Cambier Park, 755 8th Ave. S., Naples. Check https:// davidlawrencecenters.org or call 239-455-8500. 10 a.m. May Flower Craft. Create a beautiful flower craft. All ages. Registration is not required. Located at Headquarters Library, 2385 Orange Blossom Dr., Naples. Call 239-252-7371 or check www.collierlibrary.org. 3 p.m. Pups ‘n’ Books. Stop by to read to a dog or just pet one. All ages. Registration not required. Located at Vanderbilt Beach Library, 788 Vanderbilt Beach Rd., Naples. Check www. collierlibrary.org or call 239-252-7160.

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4 p.m. Sensory-friendly Saturday. For children with autism spectrum or other sensory processing needs and their families. Registration required. Free admission from 4-6 p.m. Located at Naples Botanical Garden, 4820 Bayshore Dr., Naples. Call 239643-7275 or check www.naplesgarden.org.

24 TUESDAY 5:30 p.m. Exceptional Night. For children with physical and/or neurological disabilities, autism, and other sensory disorders. Muted Lighting and sounds, cool-down spaces, and limited numbers. Located at Golisano Children’s Museum of Naples, 15080 Livingston Rd., Naples. Call 239-514-0084 or check www.cmon.org.

25 WEDNESDAY 6 p.m. Art After Hours. Live music and free admission to all museum exhibitions makes for a fun evening of art and entertainment for all ages. Located at Artis-Naples, 5833 Pelican Bay Blvd., Naples. Call 239-597-1900 or check https://artisnaples.org.

NEAPOLITANfamily • May 2022

27 FRIDAY 6 p.m. Retro Game Night. Bring your own blanket and revisit your childhood. Enjoy the free ice cream sundae bar. All ages. Located at Naples Depot Museum, 1051 5th Ave. S., Naples. Call 239-252-8419 or check https://colliermuseums.com.

28 SATURDAY

DISCOVER IRISH DANCE THIS SUMMER

8 a.m. Family Wonder Days. Also May 29. Garden-wide fun awaits with a weekend of games, activities, and scavenger hunts. Located at Naples Botanical Garden, 4820 Bayshore Dr., Naples. Call 239-643-7275 or check www.naplesgarden.org. 6 p.m. Water Safety Month Celebration. Have fun while learning how to be safe around water. CPR demonstrations for both parents and children. Photos with Stewie the Duck. Located at Golden Gate Community Park, 3300 Santa Barbara Blvd., Naples. Check www.collierparks.com/events or call 239-2524180.

Scan here for even more family-friendly events.

NEAPOLITANfamily • May 2022

Where dance is an adventure Drop-in Mini Summer Camp! June 20-Aug. 5, 9 am to 12 pm, Monday-Friday Ages 7+, $20 per day. Pre-registration required The Naples School of Irish Dance 875 94th Ave. N., Naples FL 34108 Contact Robin Maki at 516-314-7404 or RLRBM@msn.com NaplesIrishDance@gmail.com

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COLLIER COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOLS

By Chad Oliver

CCPS to Live Stream All Commencement Ceremonies

ommunity members, Collier County Public Schools alumni, and friends and family of 2022 graduates will be able to watch commencement ceremonies from across the world as they take place on the campuses of high schools across Collier County. The successful completion of all degree requirements is a tremendous accomplishment and is the North Star for the CCPS Strategic Plan, which outlines continuous improvement strategies for graduating students who are college, career, and life ready. When you ask Kamela Patton, Ph.D., the accomplishment she is most proud of during her 11 years as CCPS superintendent, she will quickly rattle off staggering statistics related to graduation rates. We currently are at a Collier County record-high overall rate of 92.7% of students who graduate in four years. Keep in mind, the percentage that gets publicized does not mean the remaining students in the cohort will not graduate. In many instances, students complete graduation requirements but take longer than four years. We host a midyear commencement ceremony in January at the Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Administrative Center to celebrate those who needed a little extra time but persevered to finish the race. Everyone in our community should take pride in the educational opportunities delivered by our talented staff. The CCPS graduation rate has increased 20.2 percentage points from 72.5% in 2011 to 92.7% in 2021. Subgroup graduation rates have continued to rise significantly as well. Students with disabilities improved their graduation rate from 48.4% in 2011 to 87.1% in 2021. Many people do not realize CCPS educates more migrant students than any other school district in Florida. When parents or guardians move for work in agriculture, it can be extremely disruptive to their child’s education. The graduation rate of our migrant population 26

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Lorenzo Walker Technical High School’s 2021 graduation ceremony. improved from 54.3% in 2011 to 86.6% in 2021. The graduation rate for Black students improved from 63.8% in 2011 to 90.3% in 2021. Hispanic students’ graduation rate improved 26.6 percentage points, rising from 64.1% in 2011 to 90.7% in 2021. Fourteen percent of our 48,000 students are considered English Language Learners because they score within the limited English proficient range. The ELL graduation rate improved from 49.8% in 2011 to 86.8% in 2021. Those improvements are incredible! Walking across the graduation stage and tossing their caps in the air are moments students will never forget. It is the culmination of their K-12 academic journey and the launching point for their next phase in life, whether that means attending college, embarking on training necessary for a career, or joining the military.

Currently, this year’s class of seniors remains on pace to reach – and potentially exceed – the high standard set by preceding classes. Commencement ceremonies will be held on May 27 and 28. As normal, these will be ticketed events where students will celebrate with family or whomever they choose to invite. Anyone may watch the ceremonies live by visiting www.collierschools.com/ graduation. CCPS also will air replays of the ceremonies on the Education Channel, available to subscribers of Comcast, CenturyLink, and Summit Broadband on channel 99. Our public schools belong to our community, and we are proud to offer this opportunity to collectively celebrate. CHAD OLIVER is executive director of communications and community engagement for Collier County Public Schools. NEAPOLITANfamily • May 2022

Happy a u t i d o a n r ! G

Congratulations to the

Class of 2022!

The new graduates featured on the following pages completed their high school years during an unprecedented time, so let’s celebrate their accomplishments and wish them well as they embark on this exciting new stage in their lives.

NEAPOLITANfamily • May 2022

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Mason Classical Academy Class of 2022 VALEDICTORIAN

SALUTATORIAN

Georgie Trekell

Anna Bialkowski

Izzy Aldeguer

Katrina Baiza-Urtaza

Christian Boff

Kristina Brown

Samuel Brown

Roberto Calero

Connor Campos

Avia Chickk

Clara Cunningham

Karen Da Silva

Teddy Drake

Laina Edwards

Logan Elliott

Neva England

Mason Forsman

Christina Guttuso

Cameron Harding

Johanna Iglesias

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NEAPOLITANfamily • May 2022

Karadyn Jaycox

Kevin Jean-Pierre

Vanessa Johnston

Olivia Longo

Hamza Masoud

Ari Mastrogiacomo

JT McGilvrey

Benjamin Morisma

Nicholas Musingo

Greg Nemeth

Julia Nemeth

Haly Osborn

Carson Perkins

Bizzy Pince

Susan Reid

Chris Reyes

Tristan Robbins

Christopher Sanchez

Bella Santos

Victoria Shelford

Claudia Silva

Jaguar Stephens

Erick Tovar Carlone

Claire Turner

Congratulations Class of 2022! Livan Vega

Enroll Now at masonacademy.com!

NEAPOLITANfamily • May 2022

Gavin Willoughby neafamily.com

Now Open

KNIGHT TRACK & FIELD COMPLEX

The Village School of Naples 6000 Goodlette-Frank Road N. Naples, FL 34109 | 239-593-7686 www.villageschoolnaples.org

The Village School provides an environment that

EMPOWERS and

INSPIRES st(dents to think and CREATE sol(tions to challenges in an ever-changing world.

Are you ready to become a Knight for Life? 30

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NEAPOLITANfamily • May 2022

TO OUR

Class of 2022

Celebrating 100% College Acceptance!

Ashby Beckner

John Casterline

Caryn Coker

Dylan Crawford

Zakary DeLeo

Katherine Dreyfuss

Connor Foord

Emilie Gesdorf

Grace Hardmeyer

Isabel Janoyan

Kaden Krishna

Reef Love

Connor O’Leary

Alex Pawlas

Maxwell Riggall

Collectively, our seniors were offered over $2.2 million in scholarships (as of April 2022) and were accepted to the following universities: Alaska Pacific University Arizona State University-Tempe Ave Maria University Belmont University Berry College Butler University Colorado State UniversityFort Collins Eckerd College Flagler College - St. Augustine Florida Atlantic University Florida Gulf Coast Universirty

Ethan Taylor *Myles Lawary (not pictured)

Florida International University Florida Southern College Florida State University Furman College Hawaii Pacific University High Point University Indiana University Bloomington Loyola University Chicago Massachusetts College of Art and Design Montana State University Oglethorpe University

Pepperdine University Rollins College Salve Regina University Samford University Santa Clara University Santa Fe College Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD) SMU Southern Methodist University Stetson University The University of the South

The University of West Florida University of Central Florida University of Colorado-Boulder University of Florida University of Maine University of New Haven University of North Florida University of Oklahoma University of Richmond University of South Florida University of Tampa (UT)

The Village School of Naples Serving PreK3 - 12th Grade Students

Learn more or schedule a campus visit today: TVSNaples.org | 239-593-7686 | admissions@tvsnaples.org 6000 Goodlette Road • Naples, FL 34109

NEAPOLITANfamily • May 2022

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Years of

Academic Excellence

Congratulations Community School of Naples Class of 2022! www.communityschoolnaples.org | 239-597-7575 | 32

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NEAPOLITANfamily • May 2022

2022 College Acceptances The University of Alabama (3) Florida International University (1) Nova Southeastern University (1) Appalachian State University (1) Florida Southern College (4) Ohio University-Main Campus (1) Arizona State University-Tempe (2) Florida State University (19) University of Oklahoma-Norman Campus (2) The University of Arizona (4) University of Florida (12) Pace University, New York City Campus (2) Auburn University (3) Furman University (2) Pennsylvania State University-Penn State Main Campus (4) Austin Peay State University (1) George Washington University (1) University of Pittsburgh-Pittsburgh Campus (1) Ave Maria University (1) Georgetown University (1) Princeton University (2) Babson College (2) Georgia Institute of Technology-Main Campus (1) Purdue University-Main Campus (3) Ball State University (1) Georgia State University (1) Rhodes College (1) Barry University (1) University of Georgia (2) University of Richmond (1) Baylor University (4) High Point University (9) Rochester Institute of Technology (3) Belmont University (1) College of the Holy Cross (1) University of Rochester (2) Bethany College (1) University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign (1) Rollins College (6) Boston College (1) Immaculata University (1) Saint Leo University (1) Boston University (2) Indiana University-Purdue University-Indianapolis (1) San Diego State University (1) Brandeis University (1) Indiana University-Bloomington (4) Santa Clara University (1) Brown University (1) Iowa State University (1) Seattle University (1) University of California-Berkeley (1) University of Iowa (1) The University of the South (1) University of California-Davis (2) James Madison University (1) Siena College (1) University of California-Irvine (2) Kent State University at Kent (1) University of South Carolina-Columbia (3) University of California-San Diego (3) University of Kentucky (1) University of South Florida-Main Campus (7) University of California-Santa Cruz (1) Lafayette College (1) University of Southern California (1) Canisius College (1) Le Moyne College (1) Southern Methodist University (4) Carleton College (1) Lehigh University (1) St. Bonaventure University (1) Carnegie Mellon University (1) Louisiana State University (2) St. John's University-New York (1) Case Western Reserve University (1) University of Louisville (1) Stanford University (1) Catholic University of America (1) Loyola University Chicago (1) Stetson University (3) University of Central Florida (6) Lynn University (2) Stony Brook University (1) Champlain College (1) University of Massachusetts-Amherst (1) SUNY at Albany (1) College of Charleston (1) Mercer University (1) Syracuse University (1) Clemson University (6) Mercyhurst University (1) The University of Tampa (5) Colgate University (2) Miami University, Oxford (2) Temple University (3) University of Colorado Boulder (6) University of Miami (8) The University of Tennessee-Knoxville (6) Cornell University (1) Michigan State University (4) Texas A & M University-College Station (1) Creighton University (1) Mississippi State University (1) Texas Christian University (3) University of Delaware (1) University of Mississippi (1) Texas State University (1) Denison University (2) Missouri State University-Springfield (1) The Ohio State University-Main Campus (2) University of Denver (1) University of Missouri-Columbia (1) Union College (1) DeSales University (1) Montclair State University (3) University of Health Sciences & Pharmacy in St. Louis (1) Drake University (1) Muhlenberg College (1) Vanderbilt University (1) Drexel University (1) New College of Florida (1) University of Vermont (3) Earlham College (1) University of New Hampshire-Main Campus (1) Villanova University (1) Eckerd College (2) New York Institute of Technology (1) Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University (3) Elon University (9) New York University (1) Webster University (1) Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University-Daytona Beach (3) Niagara University (1) The University of West Florida (2) Emory University (2) The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill (1) West Virginia University (1) Florida Atlantic University (4) North Carolina State University at Raleigh (1) Western Connecticut State University (1) Florida Gulf Coast University (7) University of North Florida (2) Wittenberg University (2) Florida Institute of Technology (1) North Greenville University (1) Yale University (1) University of Notre Dame (2) *As of April 1, 2022

Congratulations CSN Class of 2022! www.communityschoolnaples.org | 239-597-7575 | NEAPOLITANfamily • May 2022

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Congratulations

Gabriela Alcalde

John Angelini

Victoria Blankenship

Hannah Casey

Aidan DeStefano

Eli Erickson

Andrew Fabela

Benjamin Fisher

Maya Goodspeed

Alexis Hartman

Macy Hill

Lily Hoff

Johanna Hospodar

Jerika Ivey

Martin Kita

Kirstin Koert

Jonathan Levy

Calvin Luu

Ryan Marsh

Andrew Martin

Bennett Mather

Marc Oates

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Grace Dean

NEAPOLITANfamily • May 2022

2022 Graduates Calvin O’Dell

Jacob Panzarella

Marissa Pascale

Claire Penrod

Riley Peterson

Ryan Platter

Brooke Pyburn

Cole Pyburn

James Ridinger

Ema Santos

Andre Santos

David Searc

Anna Smith

Nicolas Smith

Spencer Sommerville

Lucca Souza

Luke Stepan

Elijah Stewart

Connor Swanson

Andrew Taylor

Kate Urbancic

Carson White

Zachary Zanas

NEAPOLITANfamily • May 2022

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Brianna Barbaro

Gabriel Czapla

Daniel DiNorica

Harrison Goldberg

Shayne Bellestri

Brendan Corina

Andrew Hemmert

David Hidalgo

Tarik Islamovi'c

Justin Jackson

Adrianna Karterouliotis

Kaitlyn Korb

Johannes Lopez

Marena Low

Ayeesha Majewski

Kiley McCarty

Carmen Merkel

Jacob Metzger

CONGRATS

Truman Moore 36

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Alexandra Rendon

CLASS NEAPOLITANfamily • May 2022

Rocco Roppo III

Ryan Scarpa

Ella Sieber

Jessica Stolz

Rose Theel

Jackson Toberman

Alexus Walden

Rebecca Weir

Alexander Wilson

Annabelle Wilson

AUBURN UNIVERSITY • BERRY COLLEGE • COLLEGE OF MOUNT SAINT VINCENT • COLORADO STATE UNIVERSITY • ECKERD COLLEGE • EMBRY RIDDLE AERONAUTICAL UNIVERSITY • FLORIDA ATLANTIC UNIVERSITY • FLORIDA GULF COAST UNIVERSITY • FLORIDA SOUTHERN COLLEGE • FLORIDA SOUTHWESTERN STATE COLLEGE • FLORIDA STATE UNIVERSITY • THE GEORGE WASHINGTON UNIVERSITY • HIGH POINT UNIVERSITY • JAMES MADISON UNIVERSITY • JOHNSON & W AL E S U N I V E R S I T Y - P R O V I D E N C E • L A F A Y E T T E COLLEGE • LOUISIANA STATE UNIVERSITY • LYNN UNIVERSITY • MOUNT ST. MARY’S UNIVERSITY • NEW YORK UNIVERSITY • NOVA SOUTHEASTERN UNIVERSITY • PALM BEACH ATLANTIC UNIVERSITY • PENN STATE UNIVERSITY- ALTOONA • QUEEN’S UNIVERSITY OF CHARLOTTE • QUINNIPIAC UNIVERSITY • ROANOKE COLLEGE • SAINT LEO UNIVERSITY • SANTA FE COLLEGE • STETSON U N I V E R S I T Y • S U N Y G E N E S E O • U N I V E R SI T Y O F MIAMI • UNIVERSITY OF ALABAMA • UNIVERSITY OF DAYTON • UNIVERSITY OF DELAWARE • UNIVERSITY OF DENVER • UNIVERSITY OF FLORIDA • UNIVERSITY OF KENTUCKY • UNIVERSITY OF NORTH CAROLINA AT CHARLOTTE • UNIVERSITY OF SAN FRANCISCO• UNIVERSITY OF SOUTH CAROLINA • UNIVERSITY OF SOUTH FLORIDA • UNIVERSITY OF TAMPA • URSINUS COLLEGE • WASHINGTON & LEE UNIVERSITY

OF 2022 NEAPOLITANfamily • May 2022

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Neapolitan Family’s Ultimate Mother’s Day Giveaway! Evi Smart Bassinet from TruBliss $399.99, www.target.com This infant bed features unique motions, lights, and music that allow parents to comfort and rock baby back to sleep in a hands-free way. Simply connect to Alexa or Google Home through Wi-Fi. Download the app, and then with the push of a button on your phone or a voice command, you can control the bassinet’s features. Ages 0-5 months. Birth Bag from Baby Boldly $139 (Minimalist), https://babyboldly.com Now is the time to take packing your hospital bag off your list. The Minimalist birth bag provides you with carefully sourced birth stay essentials packed in a timeless easy-to-clean weekender bag. What we’ve packed: weekender bag and changing pad in Agreeable Gray; waterproof toiletry bag; grippy socks; travel-size shampoo, conditioner, body moisturizer, body wash, and bath bar; aluminum-free deodorant; cotton balls and cotton swabs; mini nail file; shower cap; fillable spray bottle; organic maxi pads; bamboo toothbrush and all-natural toothpaste; hairbrush and hair ties; beeswax lip balm; facial towelettes; honey sticks; and massage ball. NozeBot Baby Nasal Aspirator from Dr. Noze Best $119.99 www.drnozebest.com Battery powered nasal aspirator with hospital-grade suction to clear nasal congestion in babies and children. Ages 0-3.

Baby Bottle Bundle from Comotomo $59.99, www.amazon.com This seven-piece gift set includes: two 5 oz. bottles, two 8 oz. bottles, a package of two slow flow nipples (0-3 months), a package of two medium flow nipples (3-6 months), and a package of two fast flow nipples (6+ months). 38

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Apple Fruit Teether from Nuby $7.99, www.target.com Teething is the pits, but with Nuby’s All Silicone Fruit Teether, it doesn’t have to be. The textured surfaces massage and stimulate baby’s sore gums, which helps the emergence of baby’s teeth. The ultra-flexible silicone is twistable, squeezable, and tuggable. Made of BPA-free materials for parents’ peace of mind. Ages 3 months and older.

For your FREE chance to win this prize package worth more than $700, visit https:// neafamily.com/contests or scan here **Must live in Collier or Lee county to win.** NEAPOLITANfamily • May 2022

S P O N S O R E D

C O N T E N T

Does Your Baby Need a Dentist? A

ttention new parents: Caring for a baby’s dental health may start earlier than you think! The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends that babies see the dentist for the first time six months after the first tooth erupts, or no later than their first birthday. This recommendation is supported by both the American Dental Association and the Academy of General Dentistry because more than 21% of American children between the ages of 2 and 5 have cavities, but children who visit the dentist by their first birthday may be less likely to have tooth decay than children who wait until they’re older. Research shows for each year past a child’s first birthday parents delay booking that first dental appointment, the child’s chances of getting tooth decay nearly doubles. How can an early consultation with a dentist help reduce the risk of cavities in children? An early consultation with a pediatric dentist can immediately reduce the risk of cavities, because as they say, “knowing is half the battle.” For starters, many parents don’t know what they don’t know about their baby’s oral health. Taking care of children isn’t always intuitive, and unfortunately there is a lot of misinformation out there regarding their oral health. The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recognizes that perinatal and infant oral health are the foundations upon which preventive education and dental care must be built to enhance the opportunity for a child to have a lifetime free from preventable oral disease. What is special about this time? For parents, this is the time they really start preparing for the new baby’s arrival and it is the perfect time to start thinking about dental health. For oral health providers, it is the time where parents are receptive to receiving information that can help their children avoid preventable dental concerns. Topics such as how parents’ dental health can affect their baby’s dental health are discussed at this time. Other topics may include: • Pregnancy and the prenatal period • Teething • Baby bottle tooth decay • Infant feeding practices • Mouth cleaning • Teething • Pacifier habits • Finger-sucking habits NEAPOLITANfamily • May 2022

Who should a parent consult for advice? Parents should research the professionals in their area, who have experience with babies. Pediatric dentists fall into this niche. Pediatric dentists have an additional two to three years of special training after dental school and are prepared to treat children of all shapes and sizes from itty bitty infants to growing teens. How do you set up a visit? In person or via a virtual visit with GoodCheckup. Your pediatric dentist is only a phone call away!

Marilyn C. Sandor, D.D.S., M.S. Dr. Sandor is a pediatric dentist, entrepreneur, innovator, and a private practice owner with 21 years of industry experience. neafamily.com

COMMUNITY FOCUS

By Karen Hanlon

#OneChoice

How one mom turned heartbreak into hope

ecky Savage’s activism grew out of the most heartbreaking scenario a mother could face – the death of a child. Or, in Savage’s case, the loss of two sons, Nick and Jack, on the same morning after a round of parties celebrating Jack’s 2015 high school graduation in Granger, Indiana. Savage, a nurse and mother for four sons, had waited up for her two older boys on that fateful June night, and as always, they arrived home before curfew with a couple of friends in tow. They checked in with her and went to the kitchen to grab some snacks. The next morning, as Savage gathered laundry from Jack’s bedroom, she noticed his angelic expression as he slept, almost too soundly. Surely he’s breathing, she thought. She shook him, then shouted his name and felt for a pulse. She couldn’t find one. She yelled for her older son’s help as she dialed 911, but Nick didn’t answer. She began to administer CPR on Jack until the paramedics arrived and took over resuscitation attempts. One paramedic abandoned Jack to take another call. It had originated from the Savages’ basement. Nick’s friends, unable to awaken him,

had summoned an ambulance. Savage was frantic and confused. Did her home have a gas leak? Nick’s friends then confessed someone had brought prescription drugs to the graduation party, and both sons had swallowed a pill. It made no sense. Nick and Jack always seemed to make good decisions. Why would they take somebody else’s medication? Savage never found out what led to that one choice. During the night, Nick and Jack died of a lethal combination of alcohol and the potent painkiller oxycodone. The Savages’ tragedy was compounded by thoughts of how it could have been prevented. Becky and Mike Savage were proactive parents who spoke candidly with their sons about drinking, drugs, and sex, but they had never thought to discuss prescription drug experimentation. Dwelling in the “what-ifs” couldn’t change the outcome or allow them to give younger sons Justin and Matthew the full lives they deserved. As the family members painfully moved forward, they searched for something good to do with the money donated to the Nick and Jack Savage Memorial Fund.

Above: Justin, Nick, Mike, Matthew, Becky, and Jack Savage on Siesta Beach – their last photo as a family of six. Photo courtesy of Becky Savage.

Conversation saves lives If Savage, a trained health care professional working toward her master’s degree, did not have prescription meds on her radar,

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NEAPOLITANfamily • May 2022

Five Steps to Take Right Now 1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

Talk to your kids about opioids. Know your facts. Teens tune out half-truths, myths, and cluelessness. Follow The 525 Foundation on social media for conversation tips and trends. Buy/share/discuss #OneChoice. Becky Savage might join your virtual book club! Clean out your medicine cabinet with your children. Make it a big deal.

*Collier County provides 13 permanent drop-off sites for the disposal of unwanted medications. Visit https://drugfreecollier.org/initiatives/operation-medicine-cabinet-drop-off-locations.

and if her boys were unaware of their deadly possibilities, then there must be thousands of others just like them. Exactly one year after their loss, Becky and Mike Savage created a nonprofit to educate other families about the dangers of alcohol and prescription drug misuse. They lovingly called it The 525 Foundation, a combination of the boys’ hockey numbers: 5 and 25 and a nod to Jack’s May 25 birthday. The 525 Foundation’s first goal was to reduce medicine cabinet drugs at high school parties. They worked with law enforcement and their U.S. Drug Enforcement Agency partners to promote Take Back Days and establish easy drop-off points for expired and unused medications. The foundation shares information about the latest drug trends and recommendations for parents, such as keeping a few doses of Narcan on hand to reverse symptoms of an opioid overdose. The website (www.525foundation.org) provides conversation starters designed to generate open and in-depth dialogue. Think five-minute chats, code words for uncomfortable situations, or quick role-plays rather than lectures. “Real and honest conversations save lives,” Savage says, noting that there were more than 100,300 opioid overdose deaths in the United States in 2021 – a 28.5% increase over the prior year, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Savage began talking about what happened to her family at school assemblies and was astounded by the response from students. “I can’t tell you how many teens have told me they changed their party or prom plans after hearing our story.” The 525 Foundation’s powerful message catapulted Savage into unexpected roles. She has become a mentor to other nonprofits, and she is a nationally requested speaker. She, Mike, and their son Matthew appeared on The Megyn Kelly Show, and she testified about the opioid crisis in front of the U.S. Senate. She resigned as a university nursing program professor to campaign full-time for overdose prevention. In 2022, she added “author” to her resume. One choice Savage penned a book titled #OneChoice: How Ten Seconds Can Change Your Life, printed by Naples-based O’Leary Publishing. Savage tried an unusual approach – narrating the story in her sons’ voices. “It was important to me to have Nick and Jack involved. This NEAPOLITANfamily • May 2022

is their way of still making a difference,” Savage says. “I want kids to relate to them and think, ‘OMG, that could be me’.” The book cover features Nick and Jack standing side-by-side, sporting fresh haircuts and matching hockey jerseys. Born 18 months apart, the boys were best friends, athletes, hockey captains, and honor students. Nick (19), calm and steady, had just finished his first year at Indiana University at Bloomington, studying chemistry and microbiology. The adventurous, fun-loving Jack (18) was enrolled at Ball State University to major in business. The book’s point-of-view switches to Becky Savage for the final chapters, which are infused with heart-rending details. Nick had difficulty swallowing medication, and his mom wonders if somebody crushed the Oxy pill for him as she’d done with his Tylenol. In presenting their story from the voices of real, nuanced teenagers, Savage attempts to remove the stigma surrounding accidental overdoses. “What if we were held accountable for our worst decision? No second chances, no mercy?” she asks. “No one is immune from making poor choices. Kids should have an opportunity to learn from their mistakes, not die.” Savage ends the book with a resource guide on common drugs, their slang names and emoji codes, and symptoms. April O’Leary, the founder of O’Leary Publishing, said the book achieved #1 New Release rankings for its category on Amazon. In February, Savage appeared at the publisher’s Booked Naples 2022 event, where she told her story to a silent, stunned audience. Whenever Savage takes the stage, she is reminded of the “protective barrier” that has forged around her heart, allowing her to speak bluntly about the topic that has solidified her life’s purpose. She is still teaching, still saving lives, and she gets to talk about Nick and Jack every day, which she loves. She tries to find “the Nick and Jack” in every crowd, and she speaks to them directly, challenging kids, who are tackling the same peer pressures her sons faced, to make good decisions. In March 2022, the 525 Foundation gave 2,500 copies of #OneChoice to more than 30 schools nationwide. Savage sees the books as one more way to get kids, teachers, and parents talking. “Let those life-saving conversations begin.” KAREN HANLON is a freelance writer living in Naples who first heard Becky Savage speak at a Booked Naples 2022 event. neafamily.com

the book list by Kate Higginbotham

Summer Camp Stories Schoolisisletting lettingout outand and School summerisis rolling rollingin, in,which which summer means summer camp is right means summer camp is aroundthe thecorner! corner! right around These are our favorite Thesecamp are our favorite summer adventures summer camp adventures for young readers for readers toyoung get them in the adventuring mood. to get them in

the adventuring mood.

42montereybayparent.com neafamily.com 12

Percy Jacksonand andthe theLightning Lightning Thief by Rick Riordan Percy Jackson Thief by Rick Riordan Imagine summer camp—but for demigods. At Camp Half-Blood, the of children of Imagine summer camp, but for demigods. At Camp Half-Blood, the children Greek gods Greek gods andtrain goddesses train to use the powersparent his orhas hergiven immortal and goddesses to use the powers their immortal them. parent Plenty of has given them. Plenty ofwith friendly camp competition with mystery, a fantasyan twist! friendly camp competition a fantasy twist! Tack on a good iconicTack trio, and on a good anbeyond iconic the trio,camp and agrounds, quest that even beyondthe themakings camp of a quest thatmystery, goes even and goes you’ve got yourself grounds, and you’ve got yourself the makings of a real page-turner. a real page-turner. Camp (AClick ClickGraphic Graphic Novel) Kayla Miller Camp (A Novel) byby Kayla Miller In thisfun funand andbright bright graphic novel, friends and Willow off to In this graphic novel, bestbest friends OliveOlive and Willow head offhead to camp forcamp the for first but their find experiences that their experiences are very different. great choice firstthe time, buttime, find that are very different. A great choiceAfor those nervous for those nervous about summer Camp touches what it’s like make about summer camp, Camp touchescamp, on what it’s like to makeon new friends and to step out of new friends and out your comfort zone. There are five novels your comfort zone.step There areoffive graphic novels in Kayla Miller’s Clickgraphic series, but theyin don’t Kayla Miller’s Click series, they don’t necessarily have to be read in order. necessarily have to be readbut in order. Holes Sachar Holes by by Louis Sachar The classicHoles “Holes” exactly about fun summer it’s an adventure, The classic isn’tisn’t exactly about a funasummer camp,camp, but it’sbut an adventure, all the all the Winner same. Winner of the Newberry and National Award, thisa book same. of the Newbery Medal andMedal National Book Award, Book this book follows boy follows a boy named Stanleyhisassummer he spends summerboot at acamp correctional bootincamp named Stanley as he spends at a his correctional in the desert in the for desert in Texas forcommit. a crimeAshethe didn’t commit. he As and the the titleother suggests, he and the Texas a crime he didn’t title suggests, boys spend other boys spend everydeep single dayatdigging deep instruction. holes at the warden’s every single day digging holes the warden’s Although theinstruction— warden but although warden insists thedevelopment,” hard labor isit’s forclear “character development,” it’s insists the hardthe labor is for “character he’s searching for something, clear he’s searching for something, and Stanley is determined to find out what. and Stanley is determined to find out what. Spy (SpySchool SchoolBook Book StuartGibbs Gibbs Spy Camp Camp (Spy 2)2)bybyStuart Middle-schooler Ben Ripley spent a year learning be a top-notch superMiddle-schooler Ben Ripley hashas spent a year learning to be to a top-notch super-secret spy, secret spy, and now that summer’s he longs summer of fun and and now that summer’s here, he longs here, for a summer of for fun aand relaxation. Unfortunately, relaxation—but unfortunately, he’s required to report totraining. a wilderness for a he’s required to report to a wilderness camp for spy survival It’s notcamp long before spy survival It’s not long enemy starthimself to sneak their wayforinto enemy spies training. start to sneak their waybefore into camp, andspies Ben finds responsible camp, Benimpostor. finds himself responsible for rooting out the imposter. rooting and out the How to(Almost) (Almost)Ruin Ruin Your Summer by Taryn Souders How to Your Summer by Taryn Souders Chloe McCorkleisisdetermined determined to raise enough money buy herself a new bike Chloe McCorkle to raise enough money to buytoherself a new bike before before day grade. of sixth grade. she any canmoney make any money at home, the firstthe dayfirst of sixth Before sheBefore can make at home, however, she’s sent however, she’s sent offdecides to career She decides to makeshe’ll the best the off to career camp. She that,camp. to make the best ofthat, the situation, learnof cake situation, learn cake decorating anduse then putshe those skills goodBut usewith when decoratingshe’ll and then put those skills to good when gets backtohome. an she gets back invincible a psychotic goat, around and a snobby invincible spider,home—but a psychoticwith goat,an and a snobbyspider, bunkmate running circles her, bunkmate running around findsPerfect it’s much harder than ever she’s finds it’s much circles harder than sheher, evershe’s expected. for ages 9-12, Howshe to (Almost) expected. Perfect is fora ages nine to twelve, to (Almost) Ruin Your Summer is a Ruin Your Summer laugh-out-loud book forHow determined dreamers. laugh-out-loud book for determined dreamers. KATE HIGGINBOTHAM is a writer, reader, and editor from North Alabama. After selfKate Higginbotham a writer,time reader, andand editor from North After publishing several YA novels,isspending abroad, graduating from Alabama. the University of self-publishing several YA time abroad, where and graduating from the Alabama in Birmingham, Katenovels, movedspending to Nashville, Tennessee, she spends her time University in all Birmingham, Kate moved Nashville, where elbow-deepofinAlabama literature of kinds. She currently writesto The Book ListTennessee, column alongside she spends her time elbow-deep in ventures. literature of all kinds. She currently writes freelance editing and other publishing the “Book List” column alongside freelance editing and other publishing ventures.

NEAPOLITANfamily May 2022 2022 MONTEREY BAY PARENT ••may

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YOUR FAMILY

By Kimberly Blaker

Summer Visitation

Tips for a Stress-Free Visit for Kids, Parents, and Stepparents

ith a summer visitation trip on the horizon, both the kids and adults involved may feel a spectrum of emotions. When kids spend extended time with their noncustodial parent, everyone must shift from their regular daily routines and structures, which can be a difficult adjustment. Other emotional challenges for everyone also may be involved. Whether it’s the first summer visitation or another of many, each summer brings new changes and potential challenges. If the parents’ separation is recent, the situation may be tense, and the new routine is a big challenge for everyone. Even if your family has been doing summer visitations for some time, each year is different. New people may be involved, such as partners, stepparents, stepfamilies, or new half-siblings. One or both households may have moved. People can also change over a year, especially kids, and relationships may have shifted. The best way to ensure a successful, memorable, and fun-filled visit and reduce anxieties for everyone is to work together to plan, prepare, and create a positive environment around the visitation. Children may feel a multitude of emotions about spending summer visitation with their noncustodial parent. They may feel bad about leaving their other parent behind, not want to spend time away from friends, pets, other siblings or family members, or just miss the familiarity of their primary room and possessions. Kids may also worry about spending time with other people living in the noncustodial home, particularly if kids don’t know those individuals well. Different households also have different rules, routines, and expectations, which may cause conflict or require adjusting to. The following can help reduce kids’ anxieties and provide them a more positive experience. 44

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• Maintain the relationship between kids and the noncustodial parent during physical separations. Stay in touch consistently through text, phone calls, video chats, and shorter visits when possible. That way, everyone feels secure in their connection. Include stepparents and step- or half-siblings to build positive relationships. • Involve kids in planning the visit. A visual calendar may be helpful, especially for younger kids. Talk to them about the itinerary, expectations, routines in the other household. • Try to coordinate with the other parent to keep consistencies where possible to reduce culture shock for the kids. • Give kids an opportunity to safely voice their feelings about the visit before, during, and after – while helping them see positives in the situation. • Children probably will experience homesickness. Talk to them about this ahead of time, so they expect it and know it’s normal. Also, make a plan, so they know what to do when they feel homesick. Allow kids to take some comfort items or pictures with them, and plan regular calls into the schedule. • Custodial parents may feel more negative emotions like stress, anxiety, or sadness about their kids leaving for an extended period. As the custodial parent, you may be worried about your kids or missing them while they are gone. • Recognize your emotions, both positive and negative, and acknowledge them as valid. But try to avoid inflicting negative feelings, like guilt, onto your children. • Make plans for yourself, so you have things to look forward to and ways to stay busy. • Take advantage of extra time to focus on your relationship with yourself, friends, partner, or other children. NEAPOLITANfamily • May 2022

• Help your kids pack to ensure they have everything they need. Don’t forget essential items like medications, glasses, retainers, and other personal care items. • Keep a record of important information about your children to share with their other parent. Not just health or medical information, but any other struggles or things going on with the child or their life that would be helpful for the other parent to know. • Have a copy of the itinerary and contact information so you can reach your ex or children in an emergency. Advice for noncustodial parents Noncustodial parents may feel excited and apprehensive about the upcoming visit and worry about everything going smoothly and making sure their kids enjoy their stay. • Have a special room or space for your kids when they visit and either prepare it for them with some of the things they like or allow them to choose decorations or special sheets to help them feel at home. • Focus on quality time with your kids over expensive or extravagant gifts or experiences. Those may be exciting at the moment, but strengthening your relationship through connection and undivided attention will make for a lasting bond. • Find ways to connect with your children and participate in their interests or those that you share to help your kids feel seen, heard, and valued. • Expect an adjustment period and big emotions from your kids when they arrive. Understand it’s likely not about you – they are trying to sort out and deal with their own complicated feelings. • Prepare any other children living in your house, stepchildren, or

ones with a new partner, and support them in connecting with your children without forcing it. Make time for them and include them, so they don’t resent the visiting children for taking your attention. • Ensure you have all the vital information about your children’s health and medical needs in case of an emergency. Advice for stepparents Stepparents may be unsure how to prepare for summer visitation with their stepchild and worry it might be difficult if the relationship is new or tense. Your stepkids may see you as an interloper in their relationship with their parent and resent you for that. • If the relationship is challenging, try not to take it personally. Kids have more difficulty understanding and regulating complicated emotions in family dynamics. They may take their frustrations out on you instead of their parents. • Remember that you chose to be with someone who has children. Find things that you love about your partner in their children and ways to connect with them or their interests. • Be open to creating a relationship with your stepchildren, but don’t force it. They may take a while to warm up to someone new, especially if they’re jealous of your relationship or time with their parent. • Suggest opportunities for your partner and their child to have special time to themselves, especially at the beginning of the visit. When parents have a shared custody arrangement, it’s good for everyone to support the children in building healthy relationships with both parents as well as any stepparents. With some preparation and cooperation, summer visitation can be a special part of creating a stronger bond and helping children thrive.

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Looking for fun things to do with your family? Scan here for the best family-friendly events in SWFL NEAPOLITANfamily • May 2022

NEW!

HOW NAPLES ZOO DOES

FACETIME

Have you ever been face-to-face with the world’s tallest animal? Visit Naples Zoo today to hand feed a giraffe at the newly elevated giraffe feeding experience.

NAPLESZOO.ORG NEAPOLITANfamily • May 2022

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Become a member to earn FREE ADMISSION for one year and experience these Interactive Exhibits together as a family! • Touch Tank • Invasive Species & Climate Change Galleries • Science on a Sphere • Augmented Reality Wildlife Encounter • Electric Boat Tours • Little Explorer Play Zone • Daily Talks with Live Animals

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NEAPOLITANfamily • May 2022

1 4 9 5 S m i t h P re s e r ve Way, N a p l e s , F L 3 4 1 0 2 • 2 3 9 . 2 6 2 . 0 3 0 4 • w w w. c o n s e r va n c y. o rg