Marion Healthy Living May 2018

Fashion Forward

Summer’s must-have trends

COGNITIVE IMPAIRMENT— EFFECTIVE TREATMENT BEGINS WITH THE RIGHT DIAGNOSIS

#DetectionSpecialists

radiologist rule out Alzheimer’s when it is not the cause of cognitive impairment, and provide an accurate diagnosis, so appropriate treatment can begin.

A PET/CT scan from RAO provides more than information –it can give you peace of mind.

rtified, Fellowship-Trained Radiologists (left to right):

› PAGE 20

As we embark on an uplifting season full of color and spirited style, designers and fashion brands are o ering us feel-good fashions with a powerfully feminine perspective. › By Nick Steele

a book for every cook

› PAGE 24

be

Here’s your link to May’s giveaway.

https://woobox.com/f7hbgv (Ends 5/21 at 12pm.)

Cookbooks today have more personality than ever, thanks to beautiful designs, eclectic authors and expert cooking knowledge unrivaled by internet recipes.

› By Katie

Benscoter

the perfect match

› PAGE 28

A game-changing new program opens doors to help children in the foster system find forever homes. › By Cynthia McFarland

birthing baby naturally

› PAGE 32

Options, methods and experiences for your natural birth plan. › By Cealia Athanason

freedom behind the walls

› PAGE 38

New program brings hope and leadership opportunities to inmates. › By Cynthia McFarland

Fashion

Summer’s must-have

on the cover photographer: Brittney Denman models: Amanda Tuck and her daughter Raegan fashions: from A Cut Above boutique

HEALTHY beat

› PAGE 5

TRENDS | NEWS | PEOPLE

By Cealia Athanason, Laurel Gillum, Lisset Lanza, Cynthia McFarland and Sean Trapani

› 6 What to do this month.

› 8 One woman’s story.

› 9 A friend of the community.

› 10 All around town.

› 12 College-bound care.

HEALTHY body

› PAGE 13

WELLNESS | FITNESS | BEAUTY

By Cealia Athanason, Robin Fannon and Laurel Gillum

› 14 Must-have mushrooms.

› 15 Tone it up.

› 16 Stress and your body.

› 17 Get misty.

HEALTHY vibe

› PAGE 43

MIND | HOME | LIFE

By Laurel Gillum & Nick Steele

› 44 What do your genes say about you?

› 45 Something about sobs.

› 46 Lifelong learning.

› 48 Planting must-knows.

PUBLISHER

Kathy Johnson kathy@healthylivingmagazines.com

OFFICE/PRODUCTION MANAGER

Cynthia Brown art@healthylivingmagazines.com

EDITORIAL

EXECUTIVE EDITOR

Karin Fabry-Cushenbery karin@healthylivingmagazines.com

MANAGING EDITOR

Melissa Peterson melissa@healthylivingmagazines.com

ASSOCIATE EDITOR & SOCIAL MEDIA MANAGER

Cealia Athanason cealia@ocalastyle.com

SOCIAL MEDIA SPECIALIST

Vianca Torres vianca@ocalastyle.com

FOOD & LIFESTYLE CONTRIBUTOR

Robin Fannon

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Jim Gibson

Laurel Gillum

JoAnn Guidry

Bonnie Kretchik

Cynthia McFarland

Katie McPherson

Nick Steele

Sean Trapani

ART art@healthylivingmagazines.com

CREATIVE DIRECTOR

Jessi Miller

GRAPHIC DESIGNER

Kristy Taylor

PHOTOGRAPHERS

John Jernigan

Sheila Hartley

Ralph Demilio 123rf.com

SALES DIRECTOR OF SALES

Dean Johnson deanjohnson@healthylivingmagazines.com

SALES MANAGER

Sharon Morgan

ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES

Evelyn Anderson

Skip Linderman

Peggy Sue Munday

Cecilia Sarco

Lori Tani

DISTRIBUTION

Dave Adams

Debra McQueen

Rick Shaw

ADVISORY BOARD

HEALTHY LIVING MAGAZINE has brought together a group of medical experts and community leaders to serve on our advisory board and share their expertise and insight with our readers.

Craig Ackerman Public Information O cer

FLORIDA DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH IN MARION COUNTY

Nicolas Blaser Vice President – Business Services O cer

BB&T

Mark Jank, M.D. Ophthalmology OCALA EYE

Brittney Marthaller Director, Marketing & Public Relations OCALA HEALTH

Ashley Cauthen, M.D.

Cosmetic And Clinical Dermatology MIDSTATE SKIN INSTITUTE

Navinderdeep Nijher, M.D. Plastic Surgery OCALA PLASTIC SURGERY

Kristina Donohue Director of Mission Advancement THE CENTERS

Chris Okonkwo, M.D. Pediatrics CHILDREN’S HEALTH OF OCALA

Derek Farr, D.O. Orthopedic Surgeon TWIN PALMS ORTHOPEDICS Michael Holloway, M.D. Physician-Directed Weight Management & Medical Aesthetics LIFESTYLE SOLUTIONS MEDSPA

Jayanti Panchal, M.D. Internal Medicine and Medical Weight Management SUCCESS BY DESIGN

get it, girl

Join us on May 20 for the first annual Ocala Style Women’s Expo: A Girl’s Day Out event, an encouraging community event filled with fun and purpose. Tune in to a women-led panel and engage in worthwhile discussions while listening to local speakers share new perspectives. Bring friends to enjoy the vendor and shopping marketplace and food and drink tastings as you learn to advance your pursuits, whatever they may be.

Ticket sales benefit Ignite, a local group working to end domestic violence and sexual assault against women in our community. Proceeds help to continue their fight as they raise money for the Ocala/ Marion County Domestic Violence/Sexual Assault Center. This non-profit organization provides assistance to a ected women, and these contributions help keep such crucial services completely free for victims

Learn more › OCALA STYLE

WOMEN’S EXPO: A GIRL’S DAY OUT › College of Central Florida Klein Center › Sunday, May 20, 2018 › 12-5pm › Tickets: $5, available for purchase at ocalastyle.com › For more information, call (352) 732-0073.

day by day

Fun events, helpful tips and monthly to-do’s for May.

Archery 101 for Youth (every Tuesday through May 22, 4-5p) at Brick City Adventure Park

Invest in hand weights.

Fun at the Park: Music & Art at Shalom Park

Mother’s Day

FAFO’s Symphony

Under the Stars at the Ocala Golf Club

Hip-Hop Yoga Flow at Studio SC: Barre, Yoga, Fitness (every Monday, 6:45pm)

Delete one social media app.

Archery 102 for Adults (every Wednesday through May 23, 7-8p) at Brick City Adventure Park

Go for a stroll around the neighborhood.

Star Wars Day—May the fourth be with you!

CINCO DE MAYO

Ocala Pet Expo, Jervey Gantt Park, 10am-2pm

Low Back Pain and Sciatica Workshop at the Senior Wellness Community

Try a new dessert recipe. Set up a time to volunteer at a retirement or nursing home.

Visit Ocala Downtown Market (Every Saturday, 9a-2p)

Strength training at home

Trim and shape shrubbery. Teenage Tuesdays at Painting with a Twist (every Tuesday, 6-8p)

Clean out and wipe down the fridge.

Plan a trip to the Museum of Natural History in Gainesville.

Family movie premiere of Show Dogs Caveman Challenge at Jervey Gantt Park

Strength training at home

Ocala Style Women’s

Expo: A Girl’s Day Out at the College of Central Florida, 12-5pm

Wash baseboards and moldings. Text friends and invite them to a Memorial Day picnic

Mamma Mia! at the Ocala Civic Theatre

LAST DAY OF SCHOOL FOR MARION COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOLS

Go bathing suit shopping. Declutter your home office.

Strength training at home

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One year earlier she’d graduated from Medical University of South Carolina with her DMD and Ph.D. degrees. She and her husband, Pedro, her twins, Giovanny and Gabriella, and her new daughter, Mackenzie, had moved to Dallas, where Jessica planned to become faculty at Texas A&M University.

Instead, she began cancer treatment.

Jessica was already living a healthy lifestyle, but she reduced sugar, ate sprouts and drank green tea and alkaline water. She worked out for an hour on days she

“More women in their 20s are being diagnosed with breast cancer. Young people and physicians need to be aware that cancer can happen at any age and take seriously findings of a lump or other indications of cancer.”

no regrets

Young cancer survivor is living life and spreading awareness

› By Cynthia McFarland

Just before her baby was due, Jessica Trombetta-eSilva found a lump while doing her monthly breast self-exam. She was young with no family history of breast cancer, so her physician wasn’t worried.

Nine months later while nursing her then 9-month-old daughter, Jessica realized the lump was still there. Doctors and technicians assured her she was “too young” to have cancer, but Jessica’s mammogram, ultrasound and biopsy revealed the mind-numbing truth: She had infiltrating ductal carcinoma.

The first week of April 2017, CT scans confirmed the cancer had spread to her liver. Doctors said it was incurable. Jessica was 30 years old.

had chemotherapy since studies showed exercise helped increase blood flow to the tumor, thus increasing treatment benefits.

After two rounds of chemo, another PET scan revealed her liver metastases had completely resolved and the breast tumor was markedly smaller and barely detectable. Jessica was deemed an “exceptional responder” to treatment.

Following four more rounds of chemo, she was able to start maintenance therapy, which means immunotherapy (intravenous medication) every three weeks. Every 12 weeks, she has PET and CT scans to monitor for new tumors and/ or growth of existing tumors, which would require additional

chemotherapy, possibly surgery and radiation.

She’ll stay on two medications her entire life, so long as there’s no disease progression.

“Right now, I am termed ‘no evidence of disease’ (NED), but I will always have metastatic breast cancer, a disease that kills 113 women and men every day,” notes Jessica. “That’s 40,000 people a year!”

Jessica says family, faith and prayer have sustained her along this journey.

“Literally hundreds of people were praying for me. I really do believe that was a large part of my recovery.

“Fifteen to 20 years ago, people diagnosed with my type of aggressive cancer were lucky to live 18 months,” she notes. “New medications have lengthened that lifetime; now we’re seeing people with the same cancer still living 15 to 20 years after diagnosis.”

In September 2017, Jessica relocated to Ocala, where she practices general dentistry at Aspen Dental in Inverness.

Jessica vows to live with no regrets, loving her family and creating lasting memories with them. She remains determined to “choose happy” each day.

“My husband is my co-warrior; he helps me fight. There are moments I wonder if I’m going to see my kids grow up,” reflects Jessica. “Ultimately, I know they’re in good hands with him.”

She’s also dedicated to spreading cancer awareness.

“As a rule, screening mammograms aren’t done until you’re 40,” says Jessica. “More women in their 20s are being diagnosed with breast cancer. Young people and physicians need to be aware that cancer can happen at any age and take seriously fi ndings of a lump or other indications of cancer.”

to serve, protect befriend&

By Sean Trapani

It’s a typical school-day afternoon in Ocala. A group of students has gathered to study. But one ambitious youth is having an especially tough time of it. He sits in his chair and stares down upon his inscrutable vocabulary homework with an unmistakable expression of exasperation.

Fortunately, a homework rescue operation is already underway—led in part by Lt. Victor Jones of the Marion County Sherri ’s O ce.

You see, this gathering of students and mentors is a common scenario for Lt. Jones. He is helping children with their homework as part of the Boys and Girls Club of Marion County’s Power Hour, a mentoring session the organization hosts every Monday through Thursday from 4-5pm.

But helping kids with their homework is only one example of the support that Lt. Jones has donated over the years, and it’s why the Silver Springs Shores community recently awarded him with the “Key to the Shores” and a certificate of appreciation from the Boys and Girls Club of Marion County (BGCMC).

Since 2008, Lt. Jones—the district commander for the Marion County Sherri ’s Department’s Silver Springs Shores area—has been a beloved fixture with the BGCMC, volunteering countless hours to community outreach e orts such as the Power Hour. Jones’ contributions have been numerous and profound—and all guided by his strong commitment to the safety and

well-being of youth in Marion County.

“It’s an open opportunity to change lives,” says Lt. Jones. “The most rewarding aspect of my time with the organization is to watch the positive youths coming through the program.”

JONES’ CONTRIBUTIONS have been numerous and profound—and all guided by his strong commitment to the safety and well-being of youth in Marion County.

hope and positivity into the children of the community he served.

Jones has always been an enthusiastic contributor to many fundraising e orts for the organization. In fact, Jones, along with Phyllis Kelly and Lew Kenburg, was a key player in bringing the Boys and Girls Club to the Silver Springs Shores community. As a board member, Jones has helped with pancake events, golf tournaments, United Way events and a number of other outreach programs, each designed to instill

“Lt. Victor Jones has devoted years of service to our community [and has been a] lifetime supporter of Boys & Girls Clubs of Marion County,” said TeShaw Jackson, clubhouse director for Silver Springs Shores. “He has displayed a wealth of humanity with a positive impact on our local community.”

Congratulations to Lt. Jones on his recognition, and many thanks for his years of service to the youth of Marion County.

mardi gras ball

In its sixth year, The Villages’ annual Mardi Gras Ball brought the good times once again. Live music, entertainment, dancing and food catered by Oakwood Smokehouse and Grill kept guests grooving all night long.

Photos by Crys Williams @ The Savannah Center

Susan Walters, Karen Bradley, Cathie and Dale Stevens and Linda McBroom

John and Margo Garrison

Susanne and John Purcell Linda and Mike Arseneau

Sharlene Andersen, Jacquie Ralph, Kathie Keul and Rick Andersen

Margie and Greg Naquin, Roger and Gail Fraites

Carol Malec, Barbara Miller and Sue Rizzo

Denny McBroom, Meta and Tommy Baxter, Ray Fallen and Jessie Logan

Karen and David Pennington, Pat Beerhalter, Mike Fuller and Sheila Chessari

santos fat tire festival

The recent 12th annual Santos Fat Tire Festival Bike Expo featured more than 50 different bicycle manufacturing companies and bicycle shops. This year’s festivities included skills classes, food trucks, a charity raffle and a bike wash for donations. Proceeds benefited Bikes for Kids programs and Ride for Ray.

Photos by Crys Williams @ Santos Trailhead

Cassandra and Mike Nolan

Jody Schaible and Aaron Domeier

Ashton and Ryan Drudge

Anna, Jennifer and Adrian Lasala

Eric Olin, Mike Simmons and JC Mazza

Camden and Michaela Gray

Paul Noel, Megan Naile, Natalie Noel, Ella Jane Naile, Ethan Naile, Evan Naile, Wyatt Naile, Andon Bernat and Jack Noel

Nola, Ben, Alexia and Nicole Labonte

Carole Tan and Isabella Bouthillier

Javier Acebal and Michael Fontana

Julia Lee, Nikki Smith, Lynn Sardinas and Matt Zietlow

Edriana Cruz

Reagan and Steph Verano

the campus cure

A local psychiatrist’s book o ers practical advice for parents and college students alike. ›

One out of four college students have been diagnosed with or treated for a mental health disorder in the past year.

Sexual assaults are higher than ever, with one in four female college students having been assaulted by the time they graduate.

As many as one-third of college students binge drink, often taking part in the dangerous new trend of “drunkorexia,” in which they intentionally starve themselves or purge before drinking in order to get intoxicated more quickly.

When Marcia Morris, M.D., a psychiatrist at the University of Florida, started practicing 25 years ago, she never anticipated such disturbing numbers. The mother of two 20-somethings, she’s experienced

By Cynthia McFarland

first-hand the challenges associated with parenting college students.

In her new book, The Campus Cure: A Parent’s Guide to Mental Health and Wellness for College Students, Morris brings her professional and personal expertise to topics that are incredibly timely for families across the country.

Although packed with fascinating case histories and valuable advice, Morris’ book is refreshingly easy to read. She covers a wide range of mental health concerns, and each chapter contains tips on dealing with specific issues.

“One in five college students are diagnosed with anxiety and depression. Since I started practicing in 1993, I’ve seen a significant increase in both and also that it’s starting at earlier ages, which has been documented by studies,” notes Morris, who writes a parenting blog for Psychology Today and lectures regularly on mental health topics.

Morris points out that one of the biggest challenges students face today is the pressure of perfectionism, which

she believes is behind many mental health issues.

“Students feel driven to succeed academically and financially and even to look a certain way, and sometimes they sacrifice their health to achieve this,” she explains. “Parents also feel pressure to have their kids succeed, and many of them are worried about their children’s future. Sometimes, the anxiety parents feel is transmitted to their kids.”

Morris works with college students on a daily basis, and many of their stories are shared in her extensively researched book. (In order to protect the privacy of patients, names and identifying details have been changed.)

A graduate of Harvard and the Yale School of Medicine, Morris completed her residency training at New York Hospital Cornell Medical Center for Psychiatry. A native of Massachusetts, she and her family have lived in Ocala since 1993.

Morris’ book was published by Rowman and Littlefield in January. She is currently making promotional appearances and tour stops. The Campus Cure: A Parent’s Guide to Mental Health and Wellness for College Students is available online at marciamorrismd.com, on Amazon and in bookstores across the country.

Photo by John Jernigan

fabulous fungi

› Recipe by Robin Fannon

Jernigan

wild mushroom galette

Pastry

Did you know mushrooms are also called “toadstools?”

Definitely not as appetizing! Let’s also mention here that mushrooms are actually a fungus, so if you have fungi phobia (yes, that is an actual disorder), then this month’s recipe is not for you!

When I started researching this amazing fungi, the information was overwhelming, so I’ll keep it to just the type that we can safely consume. There are many wild varieties that are toxic, so eating an unidentified mushroom is certainly not recommended. They are the “Bubba Gump” of the veggie world; you can sauté, bake, stu , fry, broil, grill, stir fry, make soup and stocks or eat them raw. From white button and hen in the woods to shitake and portabella, each variety has its own distinct flavor and texture. In addition to being delicious and versatile, mushrooms are full of beneficial nutrition, with potassium, selenium and calcium leading the list. They also pass on the tons of vitamin D they soak up during harvesting. That sponge-like quality, much like the eggplant, makes them soak up lots of fat, so be mindful of this when cooking with them. Today’s recipe can be a nice alternative to a quiche or frittata and can be enjoyed for breakfast or brunch, as an appetizer or with a green salad as a main course.

1 3⁄4 cup unbleached/unbromated all-purpose flour

2 teaspoons organic cane sugar

3⁄4 teaspoons kosher salt

3⁄4 cup grass-fed unsalted butter, chilled and cut into pieces

1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar

2 tablespoons ice water

Filling

1 1⁄2 lbs assorted mushrooms; shitake, chanterelle, etc.

1⁄4 cup extra virgin olive oil

3 cloves of garlic, finely grated Himalayan salt and fresh ground pepper

1⁄4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

Fresh Thyme leaves (and sprigs for garnish)

8 oz organic ricotta cheese

Sauté ingredients together until mushrooms are slightly wilted and have released their juices. › Set aside to cool.

processor to combine. › Add chilled butter a little at a time, and pulse until it resembles coarse meal. › Slowly add vinegar and water mixture until dough forms. › Shape into a ball, and cover with wrap. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour.

To Assemble & Bake:

rsvprobin.com

Pastry Instructions: Pulse flour, sugar and salt in a

Shape pastry into a round pie shape or square (your choice). › Spread cheeses on cold pastry dough. › Top with cooled mushroom mixture. › If you like, dollop some of the cheese mixture on top of the mushrooms. › Bake at 375°F for approximately 40 minutes until golden. › Let cool slightly, and garnish with sprigs of thyme before serving. Note: You can use a variety of cheeses for this recipe; mozzarella or bleu cheese work well, too.

Robin Fannon is a New York culinary school-trained chef and a successful party planner with decades of experience. You can visit her popular blog at rsvprobin.com for healthy recipes, party tips and lifestyle articles. Or check her out on Facebook or Instagram.

› Photography by John

ask the expert

Tone-up tips for women. › By

Take it from a personal trainer—it’s all about the journey.

“Just take it one day at a time. All goals take time if we want to see lasting results,” says Personal Training Director and Group Exercise Director Christal Churchill from Zone Health and Fitness.

When it comes to toning up, Christal answers some of our most burning questions.

OS: What would you consider to be the toughest area for most women to tone?

CC: In my opinion, the hardest place to tone for women is the back of the legs right into the glute area, mainly because this requires both muscle building along with a healthy lifestyle in the kitchen.

OS: What’s your approach to helping women target this area?

CC: My approach involves educating women with the idea that building lean muscle is both fun and necessary to get the results they want to achieve, creating workouts that they actually enjoy and helping them understand why a mix of low

Cealia Athanason

intensity cardio and weight lifting will get them there.

OS: Why do you think some areas of the body are more di cult to shape up than others?

CC: I believe our genetics play a role in which areas are going to be more di cult for some women than others. That is where healthy food choices make such an impact. Along with that, the timing of meals [meaning when to eat in relation to your workout] for each woman can be so di erent depending on how each woman’s body processes macronutrients.

OS: What do you say to women who are worried that lifting weights will cause them to bulk up?

CC: I absolutely love this question, and my answer is always, always the same! Our bodies were not designed to naturally put on tons of muscle without some type of supplementation. It takes an extreme amount of dedication, persistence and

commitment to actually achieve a lot of muscle—both in the gym and in the kitchen. But the more muscle I can put on a lady who just wants to tone will always help take o the unwanted fat.

OS: Where does diet come into play?

CC: My first question back to that is: What results are you wanting to achieve and how quickly do you want to accomplish them? I ask this because developing a healthy lifestyle in the kitchen does not happen overnight. A woman’s body does not change overnight, and it will not go back overnight. In the big picture, what we put in our mouths accounts for 80 percent of it and working out accounts for 20 percent.

so long, stress

stressed out

Everyone deals with stress from time to time, right? A recent study by the American Psychology Association reports that women are far more prone to stress than men. Read on, ladies.

›

By Laurel Gillum

The study reports that 49 percent of women stated their stress has increased significantly over the past five years, whereas only 10 percent of men who participated in the study admitted feeling more stressed as time lapsed.

Psychologists have deemed hormones partially responsible for the stress gap between men and women. The chemical imbalances that women undergo during their adult menstrual, pregnancy, postpartum and menopause years are directly linked to fluctuating levels of stress. These results have led experts to further delve into the emotional and physical e ects of stress on a woman’s body. Here’s just

a little of what goes down when stress pops up.

insomnia. Many people have trouble sleeping when they are stressed. The average adult needs up to eight hours of sleep per night to properly function. If your sleep is compromised, this could a ect your concentration, mood and productivity during the day.

acne. Breakouts are largely attributed to excess oils produced by high levels of cortisol in the body. Cortisol is a hormone that multiplies when triggered by stress.

depression. High levels of cortisol also interfere with mental health, memory and learning ability.

weight gain. A decrease in metabolism is a common symptom of stress. Some experience an increase in food cravings as well—two symptoms that do not sit well together.

hair loss. After a particularly stressful situation, your hair will start to shed more than usual. Typically, this will go unnoticed for three to six months, thinning your hair in the meantime.

Read on to see how you can prevent stress from jeopardizing your health.

get

physical.

A mile a day keeps the doctor away—it also helps reduce high levels of cortisol in the body. Other activities can help reduce stress, too, such as swimming laps around the pool or taking the dog out for a scenic stroll.

just breathe.

To decrease your heart rate and blood pressure, consider taking a few moments out of each day to sit and relax. Whether you choose to take a short nap during this time or read a chapter from your favorite novel is up to you.

laugh. Laughter truly is the best medicine. We’ve all heard it, but have we tried it? Laughter lowers stress hormones such as cortisol. avoid caffeine.

Limit your intake of ca einated drinks, including co ee, soda and tea. Instead, go for water.

dear

diary.

Keeping a stress diary will make you keenly aware of what situations trigger your stress. This will hopefully caution you to avoid these situations or arm you with the knowledge of how to handle them next time they arise.

Sources: sheknows.com, beautyeditor.ca

spritz ‘n’ spray

According to several beauty gurus, matte skin is out and dewy skin is in. With a little help from the experts, we have rounded up some of the best facial mists to help achieve this look. Try them out! ›

By Laurel Gillum

As summer fast approaches, you’ll want to keep your skin fresh and hydrated (and remember to wear sunscreen). A facial mist will not only brighten the dullest of complexions but also contains essential antioxidants for healthier skin.

When purchasing a facial mist, keep in mind your skin type. If you struggle with dry skin, look for a moisturizing spritz with ingredients that will rejuvenate your skin. On the other hand, if you have issues with oily skin, try a product that reduces oil production. With this being said, there are a few ingredients that you want to avoid. Read the label of facial mists before purchasing them to ensure that they are free of the following harmful agents.

PUFA. All beauty products should be free of polyunsaturated fatty acids. These oils are not only notorious for clogging pores, but they oxidize, making the aging process go faster.

Alcohol. There are di erent types of alcohol prevalent in facial mists. Steer clear of alcohol denat, ethanol and propylene glycol if you cherish your soft skin.

Fragrance. Breakouts are often a direct result from the chemicals used to create the “pleasant” aromas you smell in most makeup. If you must use scented products, look for ones that use essential oils to add scent.

editor’s picks

Ready, set, spray—here are our top-picks in the facial mists category.

Farmaesthetics Cool Aloe Mist

$26

Is there anything aloe can’t do? From warding o a cold to healing a sunburn, this aloe and lavender concoction is a summer must-have. farmaesthetics.com

emerginC Boreal Tonic

$45

This spray is meant to be used after you wash your face to restore it back to its original softness.

emerginc.com

Little Seed Farm Balance + Tone Facial Mist

$20

Made specifically with sensitive skin in mind, this spray minimizes the appearance of pores, making this our favorite go-to makeup primer. littleseedfarm.com

Mad Hippie Hydrating Nutrient Mist

$20

Looking for a hydrating setting spray? Look no further—we’ve found it for you. This mist contains hesperidin, a plant-based ingredient that reduces the appearance of skin discoloration. madhippie.com

Lotion Yon-Ka

$41

Packed with five essential oils, Lotion Yon-ka is free of all harmful ingredients and can be used to refresh your skin throughout the day. And we love the scent! shop.yonkausa.com

A Girl’s Day Out

Women helping women. That’s what the 1st annual Ocala Style Women’s Expo: A Girl’s Day Out is all about.

On May 20, Ocala Style Magazine invites women from Ocala and the surrounding communities to enjoy a day of pampering, tastings, meaningful discussions and shopping at the College of Central Florida’s Klein Center.

This unique event, sponsored by State Farm - Lauren Gibson and Ocala Plastic Surgery, will include a variety of activities for women of all ages and walks of life. Engaging panel discussions will cover topics ranging from the art of self-care and making meaningful, impactful changes in your life to professional topics, like women at work and growing your own business.

As guests meander their way through the vendor village, they will find a huge variety of topics and businesses covered, including everything from salons and day spas doing demos to insurance agents, wealth management specialists and medical professionals providing pertinent, important information relating to women.

The Marketplace will feature home-based and small businesses selling some of our favorite things. Leggings, anyone? What about purses? In addition, you will find a variety of jewelry options, makeup, home décor items and much more.

And any good event will have plenty of food and drink tastings. Vitalize Natural Market and Juice Bar will be on hand with delicious smoothie samples, and Island Grove Winery will provide guests with tasty wine samples. Plus, the food. Let’s just say to come hungry.

And who doesn’t love a good giveaway? We have plenty! This year’s o erings include such brands as Cuisinart, Krups, Pyrex, Lodge Stoneware, Instant Pot, Ulta and more.

Following the women helping women theme of the event, Ocala Style is proud to announce Ignite as the benefitting charity of all money raised through ticket sales. Ignite members consist of local professionals from all walks of life who share a common interest: to eradicate domestic violence and assault in our community.

“We are so grateful, honored and excited that Ocala Style has selected our organization as beneficiary of this event,” says Leda Perez, the 2019 Ignite chairperson. “Our purpose is creating a greater awareness and understanding of the direct impact that domestic violence has in our community at large and lifting these women and children toward a better, healthier lifestyle.”

The group’s goal is to raise awareness by funding our local domestic abuse shelter and to provide the solutions, skills and support for families in need.

And Leda encourages all local women to come out and support the women’s expo in honor of Ignite’s e orts.

“The only way we can make a di erence is to stand up, step in and speak up! Connect with women in our community and make a commitment and IGNITE the lives of others,” she says.

Ocala Style Women’s Expo: A Girl’s Day Out

May 20, 12-5pm › COLLEGE OF CENTRAL FLORIDA KLEIN CENTER › Tickets are available at ocalastyle.com or by calling (352) 732-0073

This Summer

As we embark on an uplifting season full of color and spirited style, designers and fashion brands are offering us feel-good fashions with a powerfully feminine perspective. It’s all about accentuating the positive.

By Nick Steele

“You can expect a ton of shoulder play for the warmer months,” o ers

Brittney Denman of A Cut Above Boutique in Ocala. “Our customers love all our o -the-shoulder and oneshoulder styles. You can also expect to see more fl irty ru es, bright prints and boldstatement earrings.”

And those are just a few of the highlights. Expect to see elevated athleisure, a tropical heatwave and some seriously sultry beauty coming your way. We’ll break down the best of the best for the upcoming season with a little help from some of our favorite style experts.

“This summer is all about bold color, bold prints, bold everything,” enthuses Chante Burkett, owner of Ocala’s own One Curvy Boutique. “Be bold this summer, and try the hottest summer trends.”

In Living Color

From the prettiest pastels to the vivid punch of hot pink and lemon yellow, you’ll find a kaleidoscope

of choice coming your way this season. So whether you’re drawn to the delicate sorbet hues or the more vibrant shades on view, you’ll be spoiled for choice.

Over The Rainbow

You know that when Forbes advises that you invest in the “it print” of 2018, that it’s time to get serious about gingham! Now we know what you’re thinking, but hold on to your slippers, Dorothy! Sure, this checked print is hardly new and it’s been synonymous with sweetness, since that trip over the rainbow, but gingham is having a moment. Sure, it has a preppy vibe that makes it a staple in the J. Crew catalog, but it can also be styled to be a little

bit more edgy. We think A Cut Above’s O In Gingham Romper is about as fresh and fun as it gets. Old o ers up a cheery Gingham Top paired Perfect Straight Jeans in crisp white and comfy . There’s something decidedly sexy, yet still sweet about the Gingham

Tiered Midi Halter Sundress from ASOS And we’re loving the whimsical charm of Embroidered Gingham-Print Heels

Dare To Bare

There’s something powerful about showing a little skin, and whether it be o -the-shoulder, one-shoulder or the cold shoulder cut-out styles, this is a trend with staying power. Stella & Dot’s Hannah One Shoulder Top has just the right mix of spice and nice to make it one of our favorite one-shoulder styles.

A Cut Above’s One Shoulder Chambray Top has a casual

sophistication that feels on point.

Make A Statement

When it comes to jewelry this summer, oversized earrings o er maximum impact. Whether they are minimalist, boho-chic or elegant and long on drama, this trend is the easiest way to dress up any outfit. From pretty fringe numbers like Stella & Dot’s Roman Chandeliers to A Cut Above’s Beaded Fringe Dangles, it’s time to up your earring game.

Block Party

Color-blocking is back in a big way. Whether you associate it with artist Piet Mondrian, YSL or the mod styles of the ‘60s, the graphic nature of this standout style makes a strong statement. Talbot’s has the Colorblocked Sheath Dress of the season with style to spare, and Ashley Stewart has combined two great trends in one stylish o -theshoulder Mermaid Maxi Dress

Hot Tropics

Sure, there will be plenty of those garden variety floral prints around for summer, but all those moody botanicals and palm prints are giving us a tropical heatwave. From sexy swimwear to musthave accessories, these prints are sexy, spontaneous and pack a punch.

Old Navy’s Knot Front One-Piece is sure to get temperatures rising, and H&M’s palm-print beach Tote and matching bag are perfect for those sun-soaked beach days.

All The Trimmings

From cocktail dresses to denim jackets, tis the season for all kinds of embellishments. There is something to please everyone, from bold embroideries and fringe aplenty to crystals, sequins, feathers and gems. Even the sparest styles are punctuated with a little something special. We love the sweet simplicity of Talbot’s

Embellished Linen Tunic in white. And Madewell gives us something of a twofer, when it comes to being on trend, o ering up a sweet homespun

Embroidered Gingham Tank and Embroidered Gingham Circle Skirt with a scalloped hemline.

High Tide

High-waisted two-pieces are no longer relegated to those costumey retro and vintage styles favored by Old Hollywood bombshells and pinup girls. This flattering and feminine cut has been holding its own against skimpier styles for several seasons. It gives you a natural hourglass figure and draws attention to the smallest part of your waist. combines both trends with their tropicalBikini Top and the retro shape of their matching High Waist Bikini Bottoms

Sporty Spice

Athleisure is one of those evolving categories that takes things from highoctane dressed-to-thrill sportswear to a decidedly softer vibe. Old Navy is crushing it with the sporty style of their Camotanical

(camo + botanical) Bomber Jacket & Cropped Legging the softer side of things, we can’t help but cheer Collective you’re serious about being healthy, then why not also wear something with the potential to make the planet healthier? Girlfriend Collective’s minimalist sports bras, T-shirts and leggings are made from a stretchy, comfortable fabric that comes from recycled water bottles. Their dyes and manufacturing are both eco-friendly, and their packaging is entirely recyclable. Many pieces have a size range from XXS-XXXL.

“We aren’t saying that you have to be an athlete with a six-pack. You can just be a person who wants to get in shape and feel like her clothes are having a positive impact [on the environment],” explains Quang Dinh, who founded the company along with his wife, Ellie. “Our mantra is that they’re clothes that matter to women who give a damn.”

Be A Do-Gooder

4Ocean made from 100 percent recycled materials and the money from each bracelet sold funds the removal

of one pound of ocean. By 2050, it is projected that there will be more plastic than fish in the world’s oceans. So far, they have removed 373,888 pounds of trash from the ocean and coastlines. Each bracelet bears a stainless steel 4Ocean charm. 4ocean.com to buy a bracelet, donate or learn more about this global movement. Giving is always

Beauty & The Beach

“Just like your skin, we all need to protect our hair from the damaging e ects of the sun, especially when exposed during long periods,”

o ers Nick Stenson, Ulta Beauty’s Vice President of Salon Services & Trend. “Start by spraying on a good pre-styling primer, and add the finishing

color-protecting locking spray before heading out will help protect against the sun.

After you’ve been out in the sun, use a highprotein conditioner or mask to help your hair

repair and recover.”

Bumble and bumble Hairdresser’s Invisible Oil

Heat/UV Protective

Primer is a great pre-style softening mist with a unique formula made up of a blend of six featherlight oils. Its conditioning e ect makes styling a breeze and leaves dry, coarse or brittle hair soft, shiny and free of frizz and tangles. It also protects against breakage, all without weighing your hair down. Another great staple for the season is It’s a 10 Miracle Deep Conditioner

Plus Keratin, which repairs damaged hair both inside and out. In just five to 10 minutes of using this powerful deep conditioner, you can reverse damage and protect against heat, split ends and sun damage. Both of these products are available at Ulta Beauty.

Heavy Metal

Why spend the whole summer working on your tan, when you can get that bronze goddess look with the help of Victoria’s Secret’s Very Sexy Now

Wild Palm Shimmer Bronze Fragrance Oil

Color outside the lines with NARS

Larger Than Life

Eyeliner in Via Appia: Copper Brown (available at Ulta Beauty), and turn up the heat with Hard Candy’s universally flattering Rose Gold Pro Palette featuring ultrasmooth matte and shimmering eyeshadows.

Ulta Beauty’s Matte Metallic Liquid Lipstick in Golden Age (rose bronze with pearl shimmer) delivers a fierce amount of color and replenishes lips with hydration to combat dryness.

Finish the look with Essie’s luxe “To Have & to Gold” Gel Nail Polish from the Monique Lhuillier Couture Collection (available at Ulta Beauty).

Brushing Up

For several seasons, makeup

artists have been extolling the beauty of the natural brow over the manicured perfection of a waxed or threaded arch. No one wants an unruly mess up there, so here’s a very simple trick to keeping things under control, while staying on trend. No matter the makeup look, professional makeup artists use this same technique for bold brows. Upward strokes not only tame your brows, but will also create a healthy, modern look. Diorshow Brow Styler by Dior is the perfect tool for the job and has an ultra-fi ne retractable tip for precision shaping.

Happy To See Hue

Deborah Lippmann’s limitededition “Grey Day” Gel Lab Pro Nail Color was created in collaboration with fashion designer Jason Wu , yielding a creamy shade with all the cool and relaxed sophistication of Wu’s signature clothing line. Think of it as your new neutral. Speaking of neutrals, we’re just a little obsessed with

Jessica Alba’s Honest Beauty

Truly Kissable Lip Crayon in Sheer Blossom Kiss

Blue Clues

Luster Now! Instant Whitening Toothpaste is making instant gratifi cation a little more gratifying; with just one brushing, your teeth will look whiter and brighter. This professionalgrade, athome teeth whitening product contains Bluverite technology and was developed by dentists. It’s also gentle enough to be used as your daily toothpaste and contains fl uoride to fi ght cavities, making it one of the best beauty “cheat” products of the year.

E-books, audiobooks and podcasts are the medium of choice for many modern bookworms. Even cookbooks, those thick-covered tomes that once lined every home cook’s kitchen, seem like a relic of the past when we have access to Pinterest and Google. But cookbooks today have more personality than ever, thanks to beautiful designs, eclectic authors and expert cooking knowledge unrivaled by internet recipes.

NOVICE COOKS

Salt, Fat, Acid, Heat: Mastering the Elements of Good Cooking by Samin Nosrat

This book was named one of the Best Books of 2017 by NPR, Buzzfeed,  The Atlantic, The Washington Post, Chicago Tribune, Publishers Weekly and many others. Salt, Fat, Acid, Heat simplifies the art and science of cooking into four simple elements, a philosophy created by chef and writer Samin Nosrat. She teaches readers how to master salt to enhance flavor, fat to improve texture, acid to balance flavor and heat for proper cooking. With these tools, home cooks will have a true understanding how to create a delicious, balanced dish using any ingredients. Choose from 100 recipes for vinaigrettes, pastry doughs, roast vegetables, braised meats and much more. Available on amazon.com and barnesandnoble.com

The Haven’s Kitchen Cooking School: Recipes and Inspiration to Build a Lifetime of Confidence in the Kitchen by Alison Cayne

A true staple for any cook in need of simple instruction, each chapter of The Haven’s Kitchen focuses on one key lesson, like perfecting eggs or layering flavors in soups. These recipes have been tested again and again and will become go-to meals for

weeknight dinners, party dishes and decadent desserts. Each step is explained indepth with accompanying photos to illustrate the techniques behind the preparations. Available on amazon.com and barnesandnoble.com

INTERNATIONAL FOODIES Appetites: A Cookbook by Anthony

Bourdain

Bourdain is known for his international travel and appreciation for all cuisines. Appetites is a narrowed-down collection of his favorite worldly dishes, ones he believes everyone should be able to cook. The book is written in his characteristic dry humor, and thanks to his years as a professional chef, each recipe is written to make it as e cient as possible. It includes dishes like Korean army stew, oyster po’ boys and Vietnamese do chua salad with herbs, scallions, sprouts and egg. Available on amazon.com and barnesandnoble.com

In Her Kitchen: Stories and Recipes from Grandmas Around the World by Gabriele Galimberti

Before a trip around the world, the author and his grandmother sat down to dinner over his favorite ravioli. He was inspired by the time she spent preparing the meal, which led him to find grandmothers with equally wonderful recipes in 60 countries from Sweden to Zambia. Winner of the James Beard Award for Photography, Gabriele Galimberti’s stunning images of grandmothers from all over the world are paired with these matriarchs’ signature recipes in a book dedicated to food, the language of love and family. It’s truly a tale of international cuisine, directly influenced by grandmas from around the world. Available on amazon.com and barnesandnoble.com

DINNER PARTY QUEENS

Effortless Entertaining by Meredith

Steele

Party planning doesn’t have to be stressful. This cookbook streamlines the process with recipes for impressive meals that are simple, with tips on how to organize preparations to serve food piping hot, on schedule. For example, Steele’s shaved asparagus salad tastes complex but only needs a few ingredients, and her vanilla bean and bourbon peaches seem labor-intensive but only take a few minutes. Available on amazon.com and barnesandnoble.com

Magnolia Table: A Collection of Recipes for Gathering by Joanna

Gaines

When it comes to family gatherings, you need recipes that will please everyone. Magnolia Table is all about recipes inspired by beloved, comforting selections Joanna serves in their Waco, Texas, restaurant and in her own home. Choose from 125

classic recipes for breakfast, lunch, dinner, appetizers and desserts, like homemade macaroni and cheese, fried chicken with sticky poppy seed jam and overnight French toast. Available on amazon.com and barnesandnoble.com

VEGAN HOME COOKS Oh She Glows Every Day: Quick and Simply Satisfying Plant-based Recipes by Angela Liddon

This is the second volume of recipes by New York

Times bestseller Angela Liddon from her acclaimed blog, Oh She Glows, which has set the standard for plant-based cooking. This collection of recipes is intended to be creative, accessible and ideal for anyone looking to incorporate more nutritious meals into a busy lifestyle. Liddon’s collection contains more than 100 recipes, from Oh Em Gee Veggie Burgers to Ultimate Flourless Brownies. The book also lists essential pantry ingredients and shares tips on altering recipes to make them allergy friendly. Available on amazon.com and barnesandnoble.com

Hot for Food Vegan Comfort Classics: 101 Recipes to Feed Your Face by Lauren Toyota

In her collection of more than 100 recipes, Lauren Toyota proves that vegan food and comfort food aren’t mutually exclusive. She shares innovative techniques to create vegan Philly cheesesteaks, fried chicken and mac ‘n’ cheese. Readers will also learn to make staple condiments they’ll use again and again, like savory vegan cheese sauce, ranch, bacon bits and barbecue sauce. She also shares her own personal stories in hilarious fashion. Available on amazon.com and barnesandnoble.com

COLLEGE CHEFS Eat Tweet by Maureen Evans

The New York Times says tweeted recipes are the “first great recipe innovation in 200 years.” In her book, Maureen Evans keeps her recipes concise, boiling down every ingredient and step to fit Twitter’s maximum of 140 characters or fewer. Readers may have to decode the occasional acronym, but this isn’t just a novelty cookbook. With 1,020 tested recipes from around the world, this is a short and sweet volume for cooks who want all their options in one simple manual. Available on amazon.com and barnesandnoble.com

The Hungover Cookbook by Milton Crawford

Whether the hangover causes an upset stomach or a pounding headache, Crawford categorizes his simple recipes based on the reader’s needs in their most vulnerable state. It’s full of hilarious wit and delicious recipes like huevos

pork burgers. This cookbook is all about scrumptious, filling foods prepared with low-risk methods and easy-to-understand instructions, for obvious reasons. Available on amazon.com

BAKING BOSSES

BraveTart: Iconic American Desserts by Stella

Parks

BraveTart is a celebration of the most beloved American desserts. As a former senior editor for Serious Eats, Parks is uniquely qualified to o er baking advice and share the history of some of America’s favorite sweet treats. From one-bowl devil’s food layer cake to gooey cherry pie, these recipes have been meticulously tested by its author, also an awardwinning pastry chef, ready to share her expertise. Available on amazon.com and barnesandnoble.com

The Fearless Baker: Simple Secrets for Baking Like A Pro by

Erin McDowell

Baking is one of the most intimidating parts of cooking and relies heavily

and baking columnist Erin McDowell shares her knowledge on how to make beautiful baked goods more attainable, with less stress. She breaks down the principles behind how ingredients interact and how classic methods work to bring delicious desserts to life. She then builds on these concepts, using them to personalize recipes and turn beginners into bakers. Available on amazon.com and barnesandnoble.com

HUMOROUS HOME COOKS

Thug Kitchen: The Official Cookbook

Thug Kitchen began as an insanely popular website with one focus: promoting a healthy lifestyle without all the cheesy, inspirational aura of other blogs. The cookbook adaptation is no di erent. It disses microgreens and overhyped superfoods and places the emphasis on preparing real food with nutritious ingredients. This volume contains more than 100 recipes for cooks of every experience level, from roasted beer and lime cauliflower tacos to pumpkin chili. The authors also delve into techniques and budget shopping lessons to elevate their readers’ skills beyond their own book. As Thug Kitchen says, no more counting ketchup as a vegetable. Available on amazon.com and barnesandnoble.com

Cookin’ with Coolio by Coolio

If Kompton Fried Chicken, Oil My Mussels and Coolius Caesar Salad sound as fun to make as they are to say, this is the book for you. Coolio adapts recipes from his popular Cookin’ with Coolio web series, but the printed version has just as much personality and “ghetto gourmet” asides as the show. But this book isn’t just jokes—it’s all about 30-minute meals, with five-star flavor, on a one-star budget. Available on amazon.com and barnesandnoble.com

APPETIZING APPS

If you’re not on board with books, there’s an app for that. Each of these apps is available for Android or iOS, and they’re all sure to level up your home cooking game.

BigOven

This app is the most comprehensive cooking tool in the app store. It not only houses more than 350,000 recipes, but it also has tools for creating grocery lists and meal planning calendars based on the recipes you want to use. You can even upload recipes from other places online to the app, so all your recipe plans are located in one place.

Food Network in the Kitchen

With over 70,000 recipes to choose from, this app is a home cook’s dream. It has tutorial videos and photos from your favorite Food Network chefs, and you can also search for an interesting recipe by chef or by ingredients you have on-hand. It now boasts a “Cook with Me” feature, which allows the app to respond to voice commands, so you can work handsfree in the kitchen.

Oh She Glows Recipe App

Just like the physical book, this app receives high praise from its users. It features the most popular recipes from award-winning recipe blog OhSheGlows.com. All the recipes are plant-based, and many are gluten free, with lots of exclusive recipes not shared anywhere else. As the blog publishes new foods, the app receives updates as well, so it will keep growing and glowing with you.

SideChef

SideChef’s main purpose is to make cooking simple for novice chefs. Every recipe uses step-by-step instructions and includes a set of photos, videos, voice commands and timers. Adjust serving sizes and watch the app redo the measurements for you, eliminating any fraction errors. And with SideChef, you can follow top food bloggers and famous chefs for recipe inspiration.

Sources: amazon.com, barnesandnoble.com, digitaltrends.com, thenewyorktimes.com

the Perfect Match

Game-changingnewprogram opens doors to help children in thefostersystemfindforeverhomes

doors to help children in

BY CYNTHIA MCFARLAND

Millions of singles looking for a serious relationship have found success on eHarmony.com, one of the most successful online dating sites.

It takes time to complete their comprehensive personality form, but this is the secret to their compatibilitybased matching system, which takes into consideration a person’s characteristics, beliefs, values, emotional health and skills. It’s also the reason eHarmony continues to earn such high reviews from users who have found lasting love.

Turns out there’s something powerful about using science to help people find their soul mate.

Georgia social worker Thea Ramirez wasn’t thinking of finding the love of her life when she studied the achievements of eHarmony. She knew the foster system needed a game changer, and she had a di erent idea. Why not use the same kind of data-crunching science that helped singles find each other to match children waiting in foster care with adoptive families?

Eventually, Ramirez managed to locate the former head of research scientist responsible for eHarmony’s matching algorithms, who was no longer employed by the dating site when Ramirez contacted him. Her thought was that by identifying the factors that would lead to successful pairings of children with families, technology could help those children find forever homes.

Enter Ed and Ashley Brown.

Ed is president and CEO of the Patrón Spirits Company whose wife, Ashley, was adopted as an infant. The Browns share a passion for helping children, and when they heard about what Adoption-Share was doing through Family-Match, they wanted to spread the concept.

To this end, Ashley founded the Selfless Love Foundation, a Floridabased, non-profit organization based in Broward County. Ed and his business partner, Patrón founder John Paul DeJoria, graciously provided the funding to partner with Adoption-

Share and bring Family-Match here to the Sunshine State.

“I was adopted at birth and so was my sister, both from di erent families,” says Ashley. “I was so grateful for the family who adopted me. My parents were unbelievable; I was so appreciative of them giving me the second chance. These kids sitting in foster care are waiting for their second chance. That’s where FamilyMatch comes in to help them find their forever families.”

Science Of Matching

In a nutshell, Family-Match uses predictive models to suggest placement choices. Here’s how it works.

Would-be parents, who have already passed background checks and been approved for adoption, fill out a Family-Match questionnaire, which covers everything from personality and interests to parenting styles and expectations. On the other end caseworkers, foster parents and therapists complete the forms for children in the foster care system who are awaiting adoption. Family-Match software then suggests optimal child and family pairings through a percentile score generated by the matching algorithm.

It’s a huge leap from how the foster care system has been matching kids with adoptive parents to date, a process that primarily takes into consideration the parents’ preferences for a child’s age, gender and ethnicity.

These are more superficial issues than one might think.

A family might say they want a white girl age infant to 4 years old, for example, while a 5-year-old, mixed race boy in the system

and

might actually be a better match for that specific family, based on personality, interests, expectations and parenting style.

Family-Match can help pair families and children on much deeper levels than have ever been used before.

at

was my

from different

For example, a parent who is a good mom but expects lots of loving a rmation from her kids won’t find that with a child who is shy and reserved. A child who is independent and creative may not thrive in a home where the parenting style is rigid and authoritative.

Ashley Brown

“I was adopted

birth

so

sister, both

families ... I was so appreciative of them giving me the second chance. These kids sitting in foster care are waiting for their second chance.”

—ASHLEY BROWN

A family with a strong support system (friends, relatives, church, community, etc.) would be better prepared to deal with a child who has emotional di culties.

“Family-Match expands the possibilities,” notes Dr. Elizabeth Wynter, executive director of the Selfless Love Foundation. “It doesn’t use age, gender and ethnicity as a stop-gap. We’ve found that 90 percent of families would consider changing the gender of the child they’re looking for if o ered the opportunity.”

Family-Match customizes the way children can find a home and parents can find a child.

“Just looking at kids’ pictures on websites is not an e cient way to match families and children,” observes Wynter. “Family-Match is a much more e cient process than we are currently using and helps case managers who have an available child looking for suitable families.”

Wynter explains that there has not been any type of statewide repository of available children and approved families. There might be a child waiting who would be an ideal match for a family on the other side of the state, but until Family-Match, there was no way to pair them up.

This is life-changing news for the children currently awaiting adoption in Florida. For a variety of reasons, there has been an increase in the number of children entering Florida’s foster system over the past three to four years.

“Florida is really one of the better states for adoption and child welfare. We adopted over 3,700 kids in Florida in 2017, but there are still between 800 and 900 children available,” Wynter observes.

“It takes about 30 months to move a child from entering foster care to terminating parental rights to getting them adopted,” she adds.

Wynter emphasizes that there’s a crucial need for adoptive families willing to take children over the age of 10 and also to take sibling groups.

“The majority of kids who are waiting to be adopted are older, and they need a family as much as the babies do.”

Many adoptive parents initially request an infant or toddler, but Family-Match will especially benefit older children in the system, some of whom have been waiting years to find a permanent family.

Family-Match opens doors. There are many adoptive families who are willing to go to the ends of the earth to find a child but who don’t realize the children in need right in their own state.

With Family-Match, location won’t limit a family from finding the child(ren) right for them. A child in Tallahassee might be the perfect match for a family in Gainesville, but they wouldn’t have found each other if the search was restricted to local communities, as has traditionally been done.

“Social workers are doing a fantastic job, but they’re completely overworked and can only use the information families are providing them,” says Wynter. “Family-Match gives them a more realistic expectation sooner versus

later because it is open to matching all the available children in Florida.”

Expanding Opportunities

“Family-Match is a revolutionary technology to find forever families,” says John Cooper, former assistant secretary, Florida Department of Children and Families and present CEO of Kids Central, which is now utilizing the program. Kids Central is a nonprofit community-based care organization serving Citrus, Hernando, Lake, Marion and Sumter Counties by managing the local child welfare system and foster care.

“It has the possibility of having a major impact on how we link children available for adoption to families interesting in adopting,” says Cooper. “Kids Central is excited to be part of this innovative pilot program. Expediting permanency for our children and better matching children with families can significantly impact their futures.”

Family-Match was launched in Florida in mid-February and should be fully functioning state-wide by this summer. Virginia was the first state in the country to

Dr. Elizabeth Wynter

“Just looking at kids’ pictures on websites is not an efficient way to match families and children.”

—DR. ELIZABETH WYNTER

“There is hope for every kid. They didn’t end up in foster care because they did something wrong; they were born into families who couldn’t care for them.”

—DR. ELIZABETH WYNTER

utilize such a system, beginning in October 2017. Tennessee is set to begin using it later this year.

The program’s founders are hopeful it will go nationwide.

“It’s garnered a lot of interest, and we’ve had many states reach out to us,” says Wynter.

“Any time you’re running a pilot program it’s about gathering data, so a big part of this is that once children are placed we’ll conduct post-adoption surveys to measure the quality of matches,” she notes. “All of this follow-up information will go back into the program’s algorithms to improve it.”

“It breaks your heart when you see these kids 16, 17 years old, and all they really want is a family. They want to have a real birthday, a real Christmas with a family. They don’t want the world, they just want a family,” says Keith Gold, president and owner of Strike Gold, the marketing communications company based in Ponte Vedra Beach, Florida, that represents Kids Central, as well as numerous national brands.

Gold, whose agency is a tithing company that gives 10 percent of its income to charitable causes, has sat on the board of Kids Central. He’s also been instrumental in the advertising campaigns that photograph foster children in need of a home.

“I consider myself a tough guy, but seeing these kids makes me tear up,” says Gold.

He’s ecstatic about the launch of Family-Match.

“Thea Ramirez, Ashley Brown and Dr. Elizabeth Wynter are powerful women who wouldn’t take ‘no’ for an answer,”

says Gold. “They wanted to change the child welfare industry, and they’re making it happen. This is a non-profit endeavor; it’s something they want to give to families, not make money with.”

“Kids are resilient and able to heal. The way they do this is through families,” says Wynter. “The di erence a family can make in a child’s ability to be successful in life is unbelievable.

“There is hope for every kid. They didn’t end up in foster care because they did something wrong; they were born into families who couldn’t care for them. When you adopt a child, you will change their life and they will change yours.”

selflesslovefoundation.org/family-match family-match.org

adoption-share.com

kidscentralinc.org

LEARN MORE

“The majority of kids who are waiting to be adopted are older, and they need a family as much as the babies do.”

—DR. ELIZABETH WYNTER

“Kids Central is excited to be part of this innovative pilot program. Expediting permanency for our children and better matching children with families can significantly impact their futures.”

—JOHN COOPER

Birthing

Options, methods and experiences for your natural birth plan.

By Cealia Athanason

You saw the Big Fat Positive

Terms To Know

nail down your pregnancy preferences.

Maybe you’ve been interested in natural birthing options or even considering a water birth, midwife or birthing center. Or, perhaps you’d feel more comfortable incorporating a specific birthing method in a hospital birth setting. Whatever your questions, preferences and needs, we’re highlighting several natural birthing options for you to consider, along with input from a midwife and a local mother who’s seasoned in giving birth at home. You’re the one who needs to be comfortable, so here’s a good start.

The term ‘natural birth’ simply refers to a vaginal delivery without the use of pain medication. If you’re considering giving birth naturally, you might also decide to obtain care from a midwife and a doula at home or in a birthing center. However, some birthing methods just involve attending classes during pregnancy to learn di erent techniques, and you would be able to use them through your birthing process no matter where you are—at home, in a birthing center or at the hospital.

With that in mind, we’re laying out several di erent terms and approaches for giving birth naturally.

Midwife:

The American Pregnancy Association describes a midwife as a health care professional who provides everything from gynecological exams and prescriptions to labor, delivery and afterbirth care.

Doula:

A doula is there for the emotional, physical and educational support of mothers who are pregnant, in labor or have recently given birth. According to the American Pregnancy Association, a doula helps a mother experience a safe and memorable birth. Learn more on americanpregnancy.org

Bradley method:

This method focuses on relaxation techniques, self-awareness and education. It involves coaching the mother through giving birth with relaxed abdominal breathing and helps her tune into her body. bradleybirth.com.

Lamaze method:

This well-known birthing method works primarily to build confidence in women regarding their ability to give birth. Other aspects involve teaching women how to cope with pain through various strategies while also facilitating labor. lamazeinternational.org

you’ve been hoping for, and now it’s time to

Hypnobirthing:

This is a real mind-over-matter approach. Visualizations, deep breathing and prompts or coaching from a partner are used to achieve deep relaxation. The goal for women who want to incorporate this method is to be able to enter this relaxed state on demand. us.hypnobirthing.com

Water birth:

Giving birth in a tub or small pool of water encourages pain relief for mom and a gentle arrival for baby. The idea is that water helps to relax women in labor, thus providing a smoother delivery. waterbirth.org

Home birth:

This is natural birth in a woman’s natural, or home, environment. The main benefit is that a mother can give birth on her terms— in the comfort of her own home with the people closest to her. Look into this option further on babycenter.com

Additional sources: fitpregnancy.com, checkpregnancy.com

Bring On Baby: A Midwife’s Perspec�ve

For Andrea Reece, pregnancy and childbirth is something she’s been interested in since she was 5 years old.

“I’m sure my mom thought it was strange that her 5 year old wouldn’t stop talking about pregnant women and giving birth,” she says.

Even so, it’s what she’s always been interested in, and now she is one of two midwives at Gentle Journey Midwifery & Birth Center in Gainesville. For her, being a midwife is about giving the mom-to-be all the options and education she needs to make her most-informed decision. Andrea feels it’s important for women to have a say and a choice in their care. She also believes that educating women about giving birth is vital and that the more educated a woman is about childbirth and her body, the calmer she is about giving birth.

When a newly pregnant woman decides to establish prenatal care with Andrea,

Andrea will screen the woman for risk factors against a criteria list. There’s a point system and a scale they use at the initial consultation.

“Many complications on the list relate to a previous pregnancy,” Andrea says.

The standard prenatal schedule involves a visit to the birth center every four weeks until 28 weeks into pregnancy. Then, visits are every two weeks until 36 weeks in. Weekly visits start next until delivery. Postdelivery, there’s a 48-hour, two-week and six-week checkup.

Andrea’s birthing center is housed in a lovely, historic home in Gainesville. It was originally called the Colson House, and, although Andrea has only owned

it since 2017, it was already being used as a birthing center—the Birth Center of Gainesville—prior to her ownership. The atmosphere is cozy and spa-like. Mothers can have as much privacy as they want

Mothers can have as much privacy as they want and give birth any way they want.

and give birth any way they want. There’s a bedroom with a queen-size bed, a large tub for water births, a kitchen, a sitting room and more in the two-story building—and it’s all available for women to utilize for their comfort during labor.

“There are no rules really,” Andrea says. “As long as their vital signs are good, however they want to give birth [is up to them].”

In the case of unforeseen issues, the birth center has a direct connection with UF Health Shands Hospital. Andrea will always have a conversation with the mother ahead of time about transferring to the hospital, and, if the need does arise, the mother is always accompanied by a midwife.

“There is always a plan of action in place,” Andrea says.

Learn more by visiting gentlejourneymidwifery.com.

Mom Talk: All About Home Births

“My husband would have never agreed to this at first,” says Trisha Ferguson, the mother of 10 children, five of whom she gave birth to at home.

Trisha is 36 years old with an almost-16year-old son as the oldest and a months-

moving here. Of course, she’s taken a short break approximately every 18 months to give birth and take maternity leave, but she typically has been able to teach and stay physically active until the end of each pregnancy.

“You’ve really got to pay attention to your body,” Trisha says about exercising throughout her pregnancies. “A lot of what I do is low impact.”

Trisha makes every e ort to take care of herself and her family’s health, but she admits there’s a balance. Even though Patrick grows a lot of their food and he hunts and fishes, she’ll still buy cereal.

“We try to grow as much food as we can,” Trisha says. “We make smart food choices, and I just try to balance everything.”

And for her, hydration is key, along with taking vitamins and probiotics. Although Trisha didn’t give birth to all of her children at home, her last five children were born at home. When it comes to staying in shape, Trisha has mainly tried to keep her weight gain in check during each pregnancy. Post-pregnancy, she takes a healthfocused approach.

“The first five pregnancies didn’t phase me, but it’s gotten a little harder with each one after to get my body back,” Trisha says. “It just takes longer now. It’s a slow, healthy

Being a midwife is about giving the mom-to-be all the options and education she needs to make her most-informed decision. Andrea feels it’s important for women to have a say and a choice in their care.

progression, and I feel like staying active definitely helps.”

Trisha and Patrick weren’t planning for 10 kids, and Trisha admits it’s crazy. From the beginning, she knew she wanted four or five kids, and she thought that would be too much for Patrick. It turns out Patrick wanted six, but now they’re 10 in.

“We’re just really blessed,” Trisha says. “I’m grateful because Patrick is 100 percent in.”

Trisha gave birth to her first two children in a hospital in Savannah, Georgia, before moving to Ocala. Giving birth to her third child involved the midwives and then the hospital, and, with her fourth, she didn’t make it to the hospital. She calls it her driveway birth, because that’s exactly where she had her baby.

“That’s when my husband became a

go into a super-fast labor. This is just one of the reasons she and Patrick decided to move forward with home births.

“I go overdue—I carry the baby forever,” Trisha says. “I wait and wait, but mine just shoot out.”

If she were to give advice to a friend considering a home birth, she would

that midwives are licensed and trained in delivering babies, but they just approach the birthing process di erently than most doctors do. In Trisha’s perspective, a doctor will focus on the medical side of things, and a midwife will focus more on the natural way of birth and the mother’s body.

“[Midwives] are big on education. They have taught me so much about how to read my body,” she says. “Birthing is peaceful, and I think it’s because they sit back and let your body do what it does. With the midwives, they would ask: ‘What are you feeling?’ They were listening to me, and they were trusting me.”

believer in home birth,” Trisha says.

One midwife identified why it was so hard for Trisha to gauge when to go to the hospital. For her, contractions kick on and kick o for several days, and then she’ll

encourage them to look into it and do their own research to make sure it’s the right move for them. Although Trisha prefers giving birth at home, that doesn’t mean everyone does. She points out

The trust the midwives placed in her empowered her, and she’ll take her home environment over the hospital every time. Postdelivery at home with midwives was a bit di erent for Trisha than it was for her at a hospital. In Trisha’s experience, the midwives leave the baby attached to the placenta until it stops pulsing because they believe it’s shooting one final round of nutrients into the baby. Additionally, they don’t clamp the umbilical cord right away.

Trisha has noticed that the delayed clamp

“[Midwives] are big on education. They have taught me so much about how to read my body,” she says. “I almost never have complications, and I think it’s because they sit back and let your body do what it does.”

heals faster and requires almost no care in contrast to the three weeks of careful cleaning she did when one of her babies had an earlier clamp. With the midwives, Trisha is able to lay in bed while they clean and check the baby.

“They’re just women taking care of women,” she says. “I love birthing. It

Local Resources

If you’re considering meeting with a midwife or touring a birth center, we have a list just for you.

› Gentle Journey Midwifery & Birth Center: 607 E University Ave., Gainesville, gentlejourneymidwifery.com

› Safe and Sound Birth: 228 E Silver Springs Blvd., Ocala, safeandsoundbirth.com

› The Ocala Birth Center: 5455 SE Maricamp Rd., Ocala, theocalabirthcenter.com

› Loving Arms Birth & Wellness Center: 1111 NE 25 Ave., Suite 201, Ocala, lovingarmsbirthcenterocala.com

sounds insane, but it’s amazing.”

Trisha first met her midwife, Colleen Bach, through a birthing center, but since then Colleen has gone o on her own. Her practice is called Safe and Sound Birth, and she has two team members—an RN and a birthing assistant. In addition, Colleen doesn’t hesitate to send a woman in labor to the hospital, and she makes sure to accompany them. Trisha has developed a close relationship with her, and Colleen’s visits have always felt like those of a friend.

“All experiences have been equally amazing,” Trisha says, though home births are her preference. “As a woman, it’s just the coolest thing.”

Midwives of Ocala: Munroe

“They’re just women taking care of women, I love birthing. It sounds insane, but it’s amazing.”

Trisha and Patrick Ferguson

The Ferguson children

Behind The Walls Freedom

New program brings hope and leadership opportunities to inmates.

By Cynthia McFarland

Every eye is trained on the middle-aged man standing in the center of the room. As he shares his story, there is laughter at appropriate places and a strong feeling of camaraderie from the audience.

Many of the men attending this one-day leadership summit hold booklets in their hands, following along as the speaker continues. As he talks about changing your destiny, a slide show plays silently on the screen behind him displaying image after close-up image of brilliantly colored butterflies.

“Before a butterfly can flap its wings, it has to be a caterpillar,” he says.

Seated in the chair next to me, a man nods in a rmation.

“You have something to bring to the table,” the speaker asserts. Across the room, there are echoes of agreement. “That’s right.” “Yes!”

The overall atmosphere in the large room is upbeat, engaged, focused. It could be taking place in any college auditorium or corporate conference room, but outside the block walls of this meeting room are towering chain link fences topped by coil after coil of razor wire.

It’s a Friday morning, and we’re gathered in the Wellness Center at Marion Correctional Institute (MCI) in Lowell just north of Ocala. Every man in attendance is an inmate of the facility.

Photography by Ralph Demilio

No doubt they wish they weren’t incarcerated, but every single one of them is glad to be at this event.

I’ve been invited to experience the SAGE Leadership Summit, a program that began in 2016 after a letter from an inmate landed on the desk of Manal Fakhoury, Ph.D. A clinical pharmacist in Ocala who has given TEDx Talks on the opioid epidemic and other topics, she is also the founder of Fakhoury Leadership International, the leadership institute she launched in 2014.

“This inmate wanted to start a public speaking club at the prison,” recalls Fakhoury. “We started that with the help of the local Toastmasters group, and within the same year, we also started eight other clubs.”

Learning and Growing

Those initial clubs ignited a spark, and inmates were eager for more.

In the spring of 2017, Fakhoury helped create a personal development program known as SAGE (Such a Great Experience). SAGE o ers dozens of di erent classes, ranging from art and advanced public speaking to financial stability, business entrepreneurship, meditation and more. There was even a business class based on the concept of the popular television show Shark Tank Classes take place in two-hour afternoon and evening sessions Monday through Friday and feature a variety of guest speakers from across the community. Ten classes are held each week, and each class runs for a period of 16 weeks, after which a new set of classes begins. The average class size is 20 to 25 inmates, each of whom must be on good behavior in order to participate. At present, 120 men are involved in the SAGE program.

Fakhoury works closely with Richard Midki , an inmate who is a law clerk on the compound and has become coordinator of the SAGE program.

“Richard has taken on a huge leadership and organizational role to make this happen,” says Fakhoury. “He’s the key individual who helps everyone and is very passionate about it.”

“I came into prison when I was very young,” says Midki . “There weren’t a lot of programs to get involved in.”

Midki has seen that change, particularly at MCI.

“Institutions are open to these programs that help people in prison and when they get out. We did a leadership event last year, and the response was very positive and interactive, so we wanted to do something like that on a continuous level,” Richard explains. “Manal came up with the SAGE program to teach leadership and personal development skills.”

Midki hopes to see the SAGE program continue to grow at MCI, as well as spread to other institutions.

“If each one of us impact just two other people in the compound, we can change the trajectory of this entire institution,” he says. “If you apply yourself, anything’s possible.”

Midki is also responsible for coming up with a program known as “Storytime Dads,” something he’s found extremely gratifying. Many of the inmates are fathers, so this

is a way for them to share something with their children that many dads take for granted. Inmates who want to participate are recorded on DVD reading a book. That DVD, along with the actual book, are then sent to the man’s child.

Artistic Flair

He’s been drawing for the past two decades, but Eric Anderson’s creativity truly caught fire when he got involved in an art class at MCI, “Art from the Heart.”

Now 40, Anderson entered the correctional system when he was just 23.

Impressed by his talents, the sta and warden suggested he paint a mural on one of the walls in the Visitation Park, but Anderson wasn’t sure he was up to the task. After all, he never had any formal training and admits the only art “experience” he had in the past involved walls and cans of spray paint.

Today, Anderson can proudly stand in front of not one but five murals he has completely designed. All murals are indoors; the largest is about 30 feet long and approximately 15 feet tall.

In the “Kids’ Corner,” where children of inmates can play, he painted instantly recognizable Sesame Street characters.

“I also included some hidden things for them to find, like a butterfly, lion, the face of Jesus, an angel and di erent words,” adds Anderson. “My hope is that people will be blessed to see something nice in a sterile atmosphere.”

Anderson has been involved with the SAGE program since it started. When asked why, his answer is simple.

“I want to change. I’ve been incarcerated for 18 years. What we have here is much better than any other place I’ve been. The Department of Corrections is a big ship; it takes a long time to shift direction, but we’re seeing that here.

“If it wasn’t for Dr. Fakhoury, Warden Howell and the volunteers, we wouldn’t have what we do,” says Anderson. “They are invaluable in their e orts and willingness to help. I’m proud to be part of this. One day I hope to get out, and I want to do some non-profit work.”

Anderson says his biggest goal is not to allow mistakes of the past dictate the future.

Inspiration & Hope

Approximately half the population at MCI is involved in some kind of program. In addition to the SAGE Leadership program, there are opportunities for inmates to get their GED and other areas of personal betterment. A number of inmates

participate in the garment-sewing and boxmaking programs, for which they receive a very modest “salary.”

“This particular institution has so many programs,” says Matthew Williams, who works in garment sewing and box making. “I’ve been locked up a long time, and this is unheard of. The No. 1 priority is that guys don’t come back when they get out. Most of these men are good guys; they just made a mistake.”

Williams was taking part in the SAGE Leadership Summit the day I visited. He’s obviously glad to participate.

“I try to take a leadership role wherever I can; I want to enhance the atmosphere in a positive way,” says Williams, who is a “peer

Photo by Manal Fakhoury

Eric Anderson

Wayne Wright and Claudia Jean Virga

facilitator” in his dorm, meaning he’s over eight other inmates in his “family.”

“This program gives us confidence in ourselves, and to be in SAGE you have to stay out of trouble,” notes Williams, who has graduated the faith and character program.

Making A Difference

“What’s so rewarding is that over and over, I hear from the inmates how meaningful this is to them. These programs give them a chance to escape, and for that time at least, they don’t feel like they’re in prison,” says Fakhoury.

“When I walk into one of the classes or conferences, I feel like I’m walking into a university campus, not a prison,” she says.

One of the classes Fakhoury herself teaches is called Restorative Justice, a topic she personally loves.

“As the inmates learn about the principle of building trust by relationship, we’ve seen tears shed and people telling us how healing it is. The art and meditation classes are also very therapeutic and healing,” she relates.

“One activity leads to another, and we can see the hunger for more,” says Fakhoury. “We are currently working on having SAGE talks and are selecting speakers now. This will be modeled closely

after TEDx Talks and will probably start in September.”

Fakhoury and every other speaker involved in the programs are doing so without financial compensation, donating all their time and expertise.

“Being able to share and give back is so rewarding. The other volunteers say the same thing,” says Fakhoury. “We’re very appreciative of Assistant Warden Je rey Howell who has to approve all these programs.”

The inmates are also visibly appreciative and respectful of Warden Howell. During

the summit I attended, Howell addressed the group and his short speech received a rousing round of applause from the men.

“We know we have problems in prison, but we also have power and positivity,” says Howell. “Society needs leaders. Even people in prison who will never get out can still be leaders here. Make sure you’re a leader on this compound and leading other inmates. We need to be better tomorrow than we are today.”

There’s a saying in prison: “I’m not going to allow time to do me; I’m going to do time.”

Those inmates involved in the SAGE program have decided to “do time” in the most positive way possible.

“When I walk into one of the classes or conferences, I feel like I’m walking into a university campus, not a prison.”

— Dr. Manal Fakhoury

Photo by Manal Fakhoury

Richard Midkiff, Steve Freeman, Manal Fakhoury, David “Yogi” Yoakum, Thierry Montrieul

Assistant Warden Jeffrey Howell

Eric Anderson, Matthew Williams, Willie Wilson, Manal Fakhoury, Leda Pérez, Steve Collazo

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sex with benefits

Science

says: Have more sex. According to experts, sex is beneficial beyond the sheets. Here are the facts.

› Have a headache? Turns out sex is a natural painkiller that relieves the symptoms of headaches, including migraines.

› In one study, research found that people who have more sex have higher levels of infection-fighting antibodies than those who have less sex.

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who are you?

Most people are intrigued to learn about their heritage, late relatives and genetic health risks. At-home DNA tests promise to cure this curiosity—but do they really work?

›

By Laurel Gillum

Approved by the FDA, athome genetic tests are for proactive patients who want to know what’s written in their DNA. After you receive your genetic test of choice in the mail, read the instructions carefully and collect the saliva sample as directed. Instead of reviewing these results with a doctor, the results will be posted on a secure website for self-review.

Although a genetic test prescribed by a doctor will typically break down information regarding your chemical makeup in more detail, these mail-in kits focus on areas where your genetic pool is strongest—therefore, prove to be quite accurate.

Hop on the bandwagon—

here are the top at-home DNA tests that millions of Americans are raving about.

23andMe—Health + Ancestry Service, $199

Learn about your lineage, inherent health risks and physical traits with this mailorder genetic kit. 23andme.com

AncestryDNA, $79

Touted as the most detailed at-home DNA test, you can find out lost information about your family’s origins. This test, however, will not provide information relevant to your well-being. ancestrydna.com

MyHeritage DNA, $99

Many people use DNA tests to find their biological relatives.

MyHeritage assists you in your search for an a ordable price. myheritage.com

Vitagene—Health + Ancestry DNA Test, $99.99

Start living your best life. From diet to exercise, this plan will help you make healthy life choices based on your genetic pool. vitagene.com

National Geographic’s Ancestry DNA Kit—Geno 2.0, $99.95

National Geographic’s genetic kit provides consumers with three reports, including regional, deep and hominin ancestry, to help you delve into your past. nationalgeographic.com

helpful hints

Before carrying out these athome tests…

Keep in mind that these tests are not to be used in place of medical care. Athome genetic kits are helpful in the sense that they may bring to light family medical history. Any detected health risks should immediately be brought to the attention of a primary care physician for possible preventative treatment.

Lastly, carefully review the contract provided to you by the genetic testing company. You might be surprised to find that the information you provided them with might not always be completely confidential, as the company is allowed to release your name, age, address and medical history to pharmaceutical drug makers for research. Happy testing!

cry me a river

Why? ›

By Laurel Gillum

According to psychologists, there are three types of tears. Basal tears are produced from the lacrimal gland between your eyeball and eyelid, cleaning the eyes and protecting your vision. Refl ex tears, also from the lacrimal gland, come in response to physical irritation, such as dust or strong odors. Finally, emotional tears are a natural response to sadness, pain or even overwhelming happiness.

Grab your box of tissues, and check out these FAQs on the following sappy subjects.

Why do I cry when I am sad?

Emotional crying is a refl ex

triggered by your nervous system. Tears are produced in response to stress, joy, sadness or other emotions and even physical pain. Ever feel better after a good, long cry? Emotional tears contain a natural painkiller called leucine enkephalin. Makes perfect sense!

Why do I cry when I am happy?

The sympathetic nervous system takes over during times of stress. When triggered, your hypothalamus doesn’t know whether you’re happy or sad. All it knows is that it’s getting a strong neural signal from the amygdala, registering

an emotional reaction, and that it must, in turn, activate the autonomic nervous system.

Why do I cry when I see someone else cry?

Empathy and a natural physical response is key here. The areas activated in the brain when you have an emotional response to a situation are also activated when you see someone else crying.

Why does my baby cry?

Babies only really have one way to express themselves when they’re unhappy. A baby’s cry is a form of communication. They cry to let you know they are

hungry or their diaper needs changing.

Is crying good for me?

Yes, definitely. Emotional tears contain mood-regulating manganese and can help stabilize the mind and body after a stressful situation.

How do some people cry on demand?

Actors use di erent techniques to cry on demand. The most popular technique involves focusing on a sad memory, thus reliving the situation and causing the brain to produce the same response as if the situation had just occurred.

We all cry for di erent reasons. For some of us, our tears are triggered by tragedy. For others, the latest episode of This Is Us may be enough to start the waterworks.

higher learning

Part practical instruction and part insightful interviews, each MasterClass di ers somewhat based on the instructor and subject matter. The common thread, however, is that you receive guidance and invaluable advice from some of the greatest talents of our time.

“I love the idea that for $90, somebody who couldn’t a ord to go to film school would get to take this class,” o ers Shonda Rhimes, the awardwinning writer and producer of Grey’s Anatomy and Scandal “No matter where you are, what you were doing, where you were in life, you could stop for a little bit of time and take this class and get this education.”

Among the other boldfaced names involved are renowned architect Frank Gehry, inspiring conservationist Dr. Jane Goodall, fashion

designer Marc Jacobs and internationally acclaimed screenwriter, director, producer and playwright Aaron Sorkin (The West Wing, A Few Good Men and The Social Network). Sorkin is a powerful and nurturing teacher but also o ers up something equally valuable to his students—a view into his own very relatable struggles and insecurities to help prepare you for the realities that plague creative types.

That tenacity is also front and center with legendary filmmaker Martin Scorsese.

“If the machinery of it all seems too big and scary and overwhelming, that’s great!” he says. “You do it anyway. That’s the greatest thing any teacher can give a student, the confidence and the inspiration to make you think, ‘Well, it’s

crazy, but maybe I can do it.’”

Alongside the insights and passion is essential instruction.

“This is as close to a private lesson with me as you can get.” asserts tennis legend Serena Williams. “It’s about connecting with people that have supported me for many years and young girls who might want to be like me. I want to help them reach that goal.”

Prolific director Ron Howard

reinforces the need for practical knowledge.

“We all have our own instincts,” he explains.

“What we have to do is back up that instinct with something called craft.”

And, of course, a healthy dose of pluck.

“As soon as you tell me I can’t do something, I’m going to do it,” declares famed children’s author Judy Blume. And as if finishing her thought, two-time NBA MVP Stephen Curry o ers, “You don’t listen to what anybody says you can’t do, because you know that you can.”

Photos courtesy of MasterClass

Martin Scorsese

Ron Howard

Serena Williams

Always wanted to learn to cook like Wolfgang Puck or Gordon Ramsay, play tennis like Serena Williams, perform like Helen Mirren or be coached by the likes of Usher or Christina Aguilera? Meet MasterClass, an online educational platform where you can learn from celebrities, star athletes and experts in a variety of fields.

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seeds & such

Tis the season to get planting. ›

By Laurel Gillum

Annual plants are typically divided into warm and cool-season categories. Annuals di er from perennials because they bloom for one season only. Perennials, on the other hand, will bloom year after year with proper care. While in season, annuals will provide a burst of color to your yard to your yard. Thankfully, in Florida, we can have flowers in bloom all season long. Check out this great guide for when to plant and what blooms when. Let’s get started.

angelonia

SEASON: MARCH

THROUGH DECEMBER*

This grape-scented sprout thrives in the sunniest spots of your garden. Keep angelonias in moist soil and this plant is likely to exceed its life expectancy well into wintertime.

baby’s breath

SEASON: OCTOBER

THROUGH JUNE

Baby’s breath grows best in direct sunlight but can survive on a minimum of four hours of sunlight a day. Well-drained soil is preferred.

cosmos

SEASON: FEBRUARY

THROUGH MAY

Cosmos’ longevity depends on their full exposure to sunlight and dry soil conditions. Avoid overwatering these wildflowers.

dusty miller

petunia

SEASON: OCTOBER THROUGH MAY

Petunias are best kept indoors until they have three leaves each. After this growth, they can move to the great outdoors in partial sunlight and mostly dry soil.

kale

SEASON: OCTOBER THROUGH SEPTEMBER

Don’t let their frosted appearance fool you—these plants love the sun and well-drained soil. Fun fact: Dusty Miller plants are resistant to insects and diseases.

marigold

SEASON: MARCH & SEPTEMBER THROUGH 3 TO 4 MONTHS LATER

You guessed it—marigolds need direct sunlight to grow in Florida. For best results, keep fertilized and in damp soil.

lavender

SEASON: MARCH

THROUGH JUNE

geranium

SEASON: OCTOBER & MARCH

THROUGH WHEN DECLINED

Geraniums are to be thoroughly watered and planted in an area that receives up to eight hours of sunlight. Space geraniums approximately 8 to 12 inches apart.

Another vitamin D-loving plant, lavender blooms in well-drained soil. Water plant well, and then wait until soil is almost completely dry to water again.

viola

SEASON: OCTOBER THROUGH APRIL

Finally, an annual that tastes as good as it looks in your garden. Keep in partial shade and moist soil. If you have a vegetable garden, keep kale away from beans, strawberries and tomatoes.

pansy

SEASON: DECEMBER THROUGH MAY

Water pansies daily. If your pansies look weak (pun intended), water them more often. Plant in full or partial sunlight.

SEASON: OCTOBER

THROUGH MAY

Much like pansies, violas grow in partial to full-sun conditions. Water twice weekly or as needed. Soil should be damp at all times.

sunflower

SEASON: MARCH THROUGH MAY

Sunflowers require fertilized, alkaline soil with a pH of 6.0 to 7.5. Hence the name, these flowers bloom best in direct sunlight.