ONE PRIDE VACCINATION CLINIC

Lions in the wild live within family groups called prides. And in the urban jungle fans of Detroit's NFL team consider themselves part of a pride when it comes to cheering on the Lions. So in the midst of this terrible pandemic knowing that we are all one pride in this public health crisis together, the Lions hosted a COVID-19 vaccination clinic at their downtown Detroit stadium to help beat this virus.

We were able to get appointments for my son and daughter on the first day my twelve year old twins were able eligible to get vaccinated. The whole family drove over to Ford Field so that the kids could join my wife and me in getting protected from this terrible coronavirus. Once arriving at the stadium we were in and out within 30 minutes. It was a quick, hassle free experience.

Why did we get our middle school aged kids vaccinated against COVID? Because I respect the doctors at St. Jude Children's Hospital. They put out an announcement as soon as the vaccine was approved for 12 to 15 year olds encouraging parents to have their kids get the shots. St. Jude Children's Hospital has been saving the lives of sick youth for decades and its doctors have earned my trust.

Doctor Miguela Caniza MD, Director of the St. Jude Global Infectious Diseases Program at St. Jude Children’s Hospital has been outspoken about vaccines for this novel coronavirus being safe and effective. She has emphasized three key points about why it is important to get kids vaccinated against COVID-19:

1. Children and teenagers can also become infected and some of them with serious disease. Young patients aren't immune to serious complications resulting from a COVID infection just because in general their sickness from virus infections seems to be less severe than older people.

2. Children and teenagers are highly mobile attending schools, sports, and intersecting more often with various age groups including with their caretakers and older family members. Even if they don't get very sick from the virus they can spread it to others who may not be as lucky if infected.

3. Because of the high percent of children and teenagers being asymptomatic or with minimal symptoms, most likely they will be effectively spreading during a very contagious period, and even more so, if they don’t follow the standard precautions (distancing, using masks and practicing hand hygiene).

We're doing our part to safeguard our own family's health as well as being sensitive to helping stop the spread of the virus as a benefit to our whole community. No one wants to get a shot, but I was really proud about how my kids rolled up their sleeves and did what needed to be done. No fuss and now a lot less stress about COVID for them.

MUSIC VIDEO ENCOURAGES CHILDREN TO MASK ON

At the request of pediatricians, award-winning songwriter and educational researcher Erica Rabner wrote the upbeat song Mask On encouraging children to wear mask to protect themselves and others during the pandemic. Schools around the country now play the song as students arrive in the morning to encourage children to mask on during the day. Mask On is a cheery, catchy anthem for addressing an important COVID related issue through children's music. Check out this music video that is meant to spread the message to kids why it is important for them to wear a mask when around others. 

Mask On is one of eight songs in Rabner's upcoming THE COVID ALBUM. This children's music album is full of songs to help kids (and their grownups) survive and thrive during the continuing pandemic. The Covid Album features kid-friendly safety and health-oriented PSAs as well as songs that support children’s emotional well being. These original songs are interspersed with “Real Talk” vignettes with actual kids talking about their experiences in these challenging pandemic times.

If this album piques your interest, CLICK HERE for more info.

SALIVA COVID TESTS

Need to get tested for Covid-19 and would prefer not to have a swab jammed up your nasal cavity? A reliable saliva-based test is now available for Metro Detroit residents. This COVID saliva test is available at the Birmingham Royal Oak Medical Group located adjacent to the Meijer in the City of Royal Oak. There is no charge for the test as it is covered under the Cares Act for those with or without insurance. However, an office visit is needed to order the test.

“We are offering this brand new COVID test by appointment only and same day appointments are available,” says Dr. Mumtaz George. “We’re asking people who have even the slightest doubt to protect themselves and those around them by calling our office to schedule this new non-intrusive COVID test. Due to high demand, we’re expecting a large amount of calls. If we do not answer the phone right away, please leave a message and our scheduler will return the call promptly.”

The test is simple to do and alleviates the discomfort of the nasal swab test. All one needs to do is make an appointment and provide a saliva sample, which can be done in the comfort of one’s own vehicle in the clinic’s parking lot. The new saliva test is over 99% accurate and the results can be found on the online portal in 24 to 48 hours. For more information call 248/288-9500 or visit birminghamroyaloakmedical.com. 

Clinic hours are Monday-Friday 9 am to 5 pm, Saturday 10 am to 3 pm, and Sunday Noon to 3 pm. This is just down the street from my house so if I need a Covid test this is how I'll get it done for sure. Wasn't looking forward to possibly having one of those swab sticks jammed up my nose. This seems like a way more convenient and comfortable way to get it done.

COVID NANO FIBER MASKS

With winter temperatures dropping and COVID-19 cases rising here in Michigan it would be nice to be able to handle all my client's legal representation via utilizing video conferencing technology from my office. Unfortunately, that isn't always the case! A combination of judges requiring in-court appearances and clients demanding them had me masking up on a snowy Michigan day to do some criminal defense work at a local courthouse. Protecting the Constitution and ensuring peoples' legal rights is an essential service that doesn't go away during a public health emergency.

Working with a number of people who are members of high-risk populations for exposure to COVID, I want to don a mask that I can depend on to be safe and efficient to wear when out and about for the job. Places I may find myself visiting as part of my law practice include courts, police stations, jails, and hospitals among other places. When out and about I've been wearing an AirQUEEN Nano Fiber Mask.

These one time only wear masks are approved by the U.S. Food & Drug Administration (FDA) for use in surgery and other general medical settings and have been determined to be a N95 substantial equivalent product. AirQUEEN Nano Fiber Masks through independent testing have shown to effectively filter 95% of particulate aerosolis. This means that these masks provide a high level of protection from germs and bacteria that may be transmitted through the air. With COVID-19 being a respiratory disease I appreciate this certified level of protection when having to be in settings where I can't control the environment around me.

While made from paper-like material, the nanoscale fibers used in manufacturing AirQUEEN mask make them superior to cloth masks and elevate their level of protection to what is classified as a high grade medical mask. Manufactured by Korean company, TOPTEC Co. Ltd, these masks are being produced and marketed for both health care workers and the general public. So you won't be taking away a mask from essential workers as the company has told me there is enough stock available to supply first responders, hospital staffs, and any other consumer who would like to purchase them. Plus they have an assembly line dedicated to keeping these masks available in addition to their current inventory.

At 1 billionth of a meter thick, the Nano material in AirQUEEN masks is sterically arranged in a fishnet matrix for optimal filtration, durability and breathability for both safety and comfort. Benefits of this nano fiber material include (1) no-fog breathing, (2) a proven pathogen barrier, (3) a secure fit with a paper-light comfort. I've found wearing AirQUEEN masks more comfortable than cloth ones and have provided me with a better sense of peace of mind when having one on.

Each mask is individually wrapped for sterility. AirQueen nano fiber masks are available in 2-count ($7.50), 5-count ($15) and 10-count ($19.50) packages. All orders delivered within the continental United States are eligible for FREE shipping included with the purchase price and all orders placed before 3pm ET are shipped out the same day from a California warehouse.

As my own kids who are currently virtual learning from home are getting ready for a resumption of going back to their school building for classes in the new year, we have gotten some of the children variety of these nano fiber masks that are available. Not only do my wife and I like them having these because of the higher level of filtering protection that they provide over cloth masks, but also because my son doesn't have to worry about his glasses fogging up while wearing an AirBON Children's Nano Mask.

For more information about the these adult and children's nano fiber masks go to airqueen.com. They've earned a Geek Daddy nod of approval!

HOW TO PROVIDE LOVE JOY AND CONNECTION DURING A PANDEMIC HOLIDAY SEASON

For many people, life as they knew it has been put on hold due to the restrictions we all must adhere to with COVID-19. The days of waiting patiently for life to return to “normal” have passed. In fact, there has been enough time that has passed since the virus hit in early 2020, that we can confidently say, we have developed a new normal. 

At first, this new normal was odd. Anything new is going to be strange to our human brain. We like consistency, predictability, and familiarity. It is what helps us to feel safe and secure, the most basic of our human needs. We are now about to embark on another adventure in experiencing something new --The Holidays. 

This is a time of year that we typically would travel, visit family, go to parties at friends’ homes and restaurants, as well as within our offices. We typically deliver presents to share holiday cheer with others. Perhaps your family spends time in service for organizations or with individuals who need extra help and extra support during this time. While these traditions were part of the bedrock of the holidays, they may not be available to us this year. Although this season will look quite different than years past, we may be able to find some hidden treasures in our new “holiday normal.” 

Here are a few suggestions to help you get through this new “holiday normal” that are based on the science of how our human brain is wired with a sprinkling of strategies that will improve your relationships and boost your resilience. So, in other words, these may be things you choose to add to your life, regardless of whether or not we are in the middle of a pandemic. 

1.  Set the Tone: You set the tone of what this holiday will feel like for your children. They certainly will get messages from your community, their peer group, and the news, however, how you feel and talk about the holiday in your home will have the greatest influence on how they feel. Start by asking yourself, am I already setting myself and my children up for being disappointed? Boost your awareness by noticing how you are talking about the holidays with others, especially when your children are present. When you listen to the things that you say, do you feel uplifted or upset? When your children talk about the holidays do you feel your own body get tense or weak? Although you think your children can not sense this inner state, they can, and it greatly affects how they will feel. You can also use a mindfulness platform like Ninja Focus that can be a great companion for your children to check in on ‘how they are feeling’ and listen to guided tracks from wellness experts.
2. Make a List of Things You Do Not Have to Do: Rather than focus on what has been lost by listing all of the things that you cannot do this holiday season make a list of all of the things that you DO NOT HAVE TO DO because of the pandemic. Having worked with families for over 2 decades, I have found that many of them become overly burdened this time of year because of all of the obligatory things that they must do either personally or professionally. Start this list by titling your paper, “All of the things I do not have to do, and I never enjoyed doing anyway.” After you create that list, how does it feel when you read it? 
3. Focus on What Truly Matters: Without all of those obligations, you now have a lot more time to focus your energy on what truly has meaning to you and your family. Time for another list. What are some things that you wished you could have had more time to enjoy if you were not running all over the place during the holidays? How many times have you purchased gifts for your children, but then not have time to actually play with them? Focus on those things. 
4. Make New Traditions: It is a great opportunity to make some new traditions and get your children involved in it. Whether you are celebrating a specific holiday or simply taking some time off of work because school is closed, now is the time to collectively decide what family or individual things your children would like to explore during this time and perhaps share with you. Plan ahead, and yes, create another list by asking your children about things they are really interested in doing or learning and find creative ways to explore these things together. 
5. Spend Quality Time and Bond As a Family: Last but not least, remember that this is the perfect “storm” for you to actually BE together, as a family to talk and connect. Ask any child psychologist and they will tell you that the best way to raise children to be self-confident, respectful, happy, and secure, is to give them THIS most important present -- YOUR PRESENCE. Simply being side by side, listening to each other without being rushed, speaking honestly about their dreams, fears, desires, challenges, and joys. This is what cultivates a happy home and healthy relationships. 

Remember the most important thing is to spend a few moments each day enjoying the company of your children this holiday season. It can bring your family closer and boost your mood. If you think it helps, include yoga and mindfulness exercises into your daily routine. Ninja Focus is a great resource with short and easy to follow mindfulness exercises and meditations that you can practice as a family with your children. Happy holidays! 

 Allison Morgan is the founder of Zensational Kids, a pediatric occupational therapist, renowned author, public speaker, trainer, and an advisory board member of Ninja Focus.

GRIP GUARD TOUCH PROTECTOR

With cases of COVID on the rise it can be a bit disconcerting to be out and about. You just don't know who may be spreading these germs on surfaces passing on the contagent to others. I admit to getting a bit nervous when tapping the buttons at an ATM or gas pump. If you share similar concerns I have a doozy of a product to share with you that I've been using leaving the house to do errands during the pandemic.

GRIP GUARD TOUCH PROTECTOR! With the Grip Guard Touch Protector from Doozi Products you can use the device's clam shell shaped silicone barrier with self adjusting finger holders to open doors or pick up items that you don't want your bare hands to be exposed to. An attached retractable spring-loaded cord makes it very portable and easy to use by stashing the Grip Guard in a pocket or attaching it to your belt. I like to pull my Grip Guard out when going through some heavy-traffic entry ways that don't have automatically opening doors such as my local post office and restaurants. I admit to also using it on the doors, knobs and levers when having to use public restrooms a few times just to be extra safe. 

The feature I use the most often though is the retractable stylus that is incorporated into the Grip Guard's design. Touching buttons, keypads and touch screens that other people have been using can be nerve-racking during these times. I've used the Grip Guard's stylus for summoning an elevator, doing banking transactions, fueling up my car, and completing retail transactions instead of rubbing my fingers against surfaces that others are regularly handling. Very handy!

Check out the Grip Guard Touch Protector for yourself. Head over to thegripguard.com for more information or to purchase one online. When you can't control the environment around you, the Grip Guard is a nice way to provide extra peace of mind about protecting yourself from germs and bacteria that can make you sick.

PLAGUE SLAYER HAND SANITIZER

Have to say this hand sanitizer from the folks at Ballsy caught my attention. PLAGUE SLAYER promises to kill 99.9% of germs and has a five star rating with almost 150 reviews at ballwash.com. From the makers of male sanitary and cleaning products, Ballsy, this manufacturer knows how to take care of the sensitive needs of its client base. 

Plague Slayer is Made in the USA with an FDA approved formula. It utilizes pharmaceutical grade ethyl alcohol to kill germs and includes aloe to sooth skin irritation. Yet it is marketed to guys so Plague Slayer is fragrance free! Not to completely profit off a pandemic, Ballsy is donating 25% of profits from Plague Slayer to support health care workers fighting the pandemic.

Check out Plague Slayer for yourself. It is more than just impressive looking artwork on its label. Made in the USA without any dangerous unapproved chemicals you may find in foreign sourced products this hand sanitizer gets the job done.

SIX TIPS FOR COPING WITH COVID AT THE HOLIDAYS

As much as the staff at St. Jude Children's Research Hospital provide amazing treatments helping sick kids they also have to provide counsel to those families they aren't able to get positive outcomes for. Their team of psychologists are experts at helping people address uncertainty, stress and grief. With COVID cases rising as the holiday season approaches, a normally cheerful, social time could this year be isolating and depressing this year due to the pandemic. And if people aren't careful they and their loved ones could be at risk for getting sick with the coronavirus.

So I wanted to pass along some tips from St. Jude Psychology Clinical Director Niki Jurbergs, PhD, along with her colleague Megan Wilkins, PhD, on coping with Covid at the holidays:

1. Perform a mental health check - It is critically important, especially given mounting “pandemic fatigue,” that we attend to our own mental health. We must first take stock of our own mental health and assure we are not trying to “pour from an empty cup.” It is imperative that parents take time for care of themselves, including spending time outside, seeking social support and engaging in relaxing activities. Give yourself grace to feel disappointment and upset about this highly anxious and uncertain time. 
2. Feel empowered to do what feels comfortable – In our work with families of children with cancer, we stress the importance of facing the upcoming holidays feeling empowered to do what feels most comfortable given the risks and restrictions of their child’s diagnosis. This is a time for all of us to take this lesson to heart and work to adjust our expectations and prepare for things to be different this year, and in many cases, difficult as well. It can help to talk about these losses, sharing what we are missing most this holiday season. 
3. Take time to consider what is meaningful to you around the holidays – Take time to consider what is meaningful to you around the holidays. Is it the special recipe for a dish your grandmother used to make? Is it playing games with family members? Watching a game with friends? What parts of these meaningful pieces of the holidays can still happen in a way you feel comfortable with? Rather than looking forward to our typical parties and family meals, we might choose to focus on the gift of health we give when we make the sacrifice of honoring our families’ and loved ones’ health and safety by staying home. 
4.  Make the holidays special from afar - Planning surprises such as cards or gifts delivered in the mail lets your loved ones know you’re with them in spirit, if not in body. Recognizing that many of us are tired of looking at screens, virtual games and activities such as scavenger hunts or singing favorite holiday songs may be more engaging than simply video chatting. Families who remain distanced this season may enjoy developing new traditions, such as trying new recipes or playing new games with those they share a household with that might be incorporated into future holidays when they can safely be together again. Families may choose to reflect on what they are thankful for by coming together to make donations to charities and causes that are meaningful to them. 
5.  Protect your elderly loved ones from loneliness and isolation - In many cases, seniors experience a heightened sense of loss related to pandemic restrictions. These elderly individuals express the feeling that their time is short, and that time is being stolen from them. Some express a willingness to accept the risk of potential virus infection to spend time with family because they are more fearful of dying of old age than they are of dying of COVID-19. Reaching out to those at highest risk for loneliness is more important than ever. Phone calls, video chats, cards, drive-by parades and even socially distanced outdoor visits can help them feel connected and reassure them that you are thinking of them. 
6. For the 250,000 Americans grieving the loss of a loved one from COVID-19, make the decision about the holidays that feels right for you – Celebrating holidays for the first time without a loved one is unspeakably difficult. For these families, not only has this pandemic taken the life of a loved one, the threat remains. That is, not only are they grieving, they are continuing to face the virus and its ongoing impact on a daily basis. These families should not feel obligated to engage in holiday traditions as they have in the past. In fact, it might feel better for some to not celebrate at all this year. Conversely, some families may choose to find special ways to honor and include the memory of their lost loved one. As with all family decisions, this one is highly personal.

A MUCH NEEDED EVENING AT GOLDFISH SWIM SCHOOL

Beyond going to work and school, my family had been staying around the house playing it safe this week as concerns about the COVID-19 (coronavirus disease) began spreading throughout the country and here in Michigan. Then things really hit close to home on Thursday when the kids' school district began cancelling classes. Looks like they won't be returning to school until mid-April at the earliest now! As Sunday rolled around we were all getting a bit stir crazy being home.

So it was nice to find out Goldfish Swim School was still open! Sunday nights are Swim Nights at Goldfish Swim School for my twins. Both of them are on the Swim Force competitive swimming team. They have an hour long practice once per week and quarterly competitive meets. My son and daughter were really excited to get out of the house for some pool time.

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Light turn out for swimming practice tonight but the pool is open at @goldfishswimschool --> chlorine in the water kills virus germs and outside their pool the facility is taking extra efforts to sanitize the rest of the place. #GoldfishPartner *********************************************** #goldfishswimschool #goldfish #swimschool #swimforce #coronavirus #corona #virus #pandemic #dadlife #swimdad #swimclass #swimpractice #competitiveswimming #swimlessons #swimmingclass #swimminglessons #swimming #pooltime #pool

A post shared by @ geekdad248 on Mar 15, 2020 at 2:38pm PDT

My son and daughter enjoyed having fun in the water and getting some exercise in during their Swim Force practice. Both of them put the stress of the coronavirus out of their minds for an hour as they focused on swimming. I wasn't too worried about them getting sick while being in the pool because the chlorine kills germs like coronaviruses and had peace of mind about the rest of the facility as I watched staff constantly taking actions to sanitize the place as we were there. Chairs, countertops, door handles, the pool deck and more were being doused with antiseptic in an effort to hold the virus at bay. No one showed signs of being sick and everyone kept a distance from each other to respecting one another's space.

From what I witnessed Goldfish Swim School understands our society is facing a serious health emergency but also realizes that people need to maintain some normalcy to their lives. They are striving to provide a safe space where families can get away from the stress of current events for a moment. We really appreciated that!

For more information about their swimming programs go to goldfishswimschool.com. A Geek Daddy is a brand ambassador for Goldfish Swim School receiving complimentary goods and services for sharing my family's experiences participating in their swimming programs. All opinions shared by this dad blogger are honest and my own.

UPDATE [3/16/20]: Because of a county state of emergency being enacted that restricts occupancy within public venues, including pools, to help reduce the spread to the COVID-19 contagion our local Goldfish Swim School is closing from March 16 to tentatively April 6, 2020. Check with your local Goldfish Swim School franchise to find out how they are being impacted by the coronavirus outbreak.