Healthy Living April 2016

RELATIONSHIP BLUNDERS

STOP IN THE NAME OF LOVE

ON A ROLL

HOW FOAM ROLLING BREAKS UP MUSCULAR TRIGGER POINTS

EXERCISES TO HELP CHILDREN GET THEIR FINANCIAL FUTURE IN SHAPE

Infamous Last Words

Your partners for life

Dr. Theresa Mills has been an interv r en e tional cardiologist with Cardiovascular Associates since August 2008. For her, educating patients about the importance of taking their health to heart is the most enjoyable aspect of the job.

“

“There are few things more rewarding than helping patients with heart disease overcome their problems,” she said. “My goal is to help them live well and feel good.”

Therearefewthingsmorerewardingthan

Her duties range from placing stents in coronary arteries to radial approach of cardiac catheterization.

“My job is to encourage each patient to live a healthy lifestyle. Living a healthy lifestyle and being proactive in their health is what it’s all about.”

Since 1992, we have been your partners for life.

YEARS OF SERVICE TO LAKE COUNTY & SURROUNDING COMMUNITIES

SPECIALTIES INCLUDE: Total Joint Replacement // Arthritis Evaluation // Non-Surgical Back Evaluation // Osteoporosis Evaluation // Physical Therapy Diagnostic Radiology // Sports Medicine // Shoulder Surgery // Foot & Ankle Surgery // Trauma & Fracture Management // Arthroscopic Surgery

J. Mandume Kerina, MD

Founder of TriCounty Orthopaedics.

Board Certified. Fellowship-Trained.

Advanced Joint Replacement Surgery

Isaac L. Mitchell, MD

Board Certified. Fellowship-Trained. Shoulder/Upper Extremity and Sports Medicine.

Claudia L. Thomas, MD

Board Certified. Fellowship-Trained. Orthopaedic Trauma and Spine, National Osteoporosis Foundation Member.

Cedric J. Tankson, MD

Board Certified. Fellowship-Trained. Foot and Ankle Specialist, Joint Replacement of the Ankle.

Alfred J. Cook, Jr., MD

Board Certified. Fellowship-Trained. Cartilage Rejuvenation, Shoulder Surgery, and Sports Medicine.

John T. Williams, Jr., MD

Board Certified. Fellowship-Trained. Advanced Total Joint Replacement Surgery, Chairman of Surgery at CFHA.

CONTENTS

April 2016

FEATURES

24 // FAMILY FINANCES

Schoolchildren are equipped with plenty of knowledge about atoms, algebra, and run-on sentences, but when it comes to finances they learn very little. Here’s how a local father has taught his children to be financially literate in an unforgiving economic landscape.

WRITER: JAMES COMBS

30 // SOZO KIDS

A never-ending cycle of poverty, reckless decisionmaking born of desperation, and a deep sense of hopelessness passed from one generation to another. That’s family life in the Ocala National Forest. A big-hearted pastor attemps to break this devastating cycle by focusing efforts on children.

WRITER: PAT JOSELYN

HEALTHYBODY

DON’T SLEEP ON INSOMNIA

46 Effective ways to deal with being unable to sleep.

ON A ROLL

48 Foam rolling helps break up muscular trigger points.

PORK & SALSA VERDE

50 This recipe will leave you high on the hog.

38 // NORTH LAKE HOSPITAL TAX

The North Lake County Hospital District tax is up for a 10-year renewal in the November 2016 election. Find out what this tax entails and how it may effect you.

WRITER: KATHY INGOLD

HEALTHYMIND

FOOD FIGHTERS

52 How nutrition can combat stress.

TAKE A LOAD OFF YOUR MIND

54 Mental illness is linked to obesity.

HEALTHYSPIRIT

RELATIONSHIP BLUNDERS

58 Sometimes, it’s good to stop in the name of love.

LYING IS GOOD...

60 Lying down for meditation, that is.

HEALTHYFINANCE

BUY OR RENT

64 Which one makes you feel financially at home?

THIS MAKES PERFECT CENTS

66 Why finances should be a family affair.

MONEY AND BUDGETING

68 Ways to stretch your hard-earned dollars.

@YOUR SERVICE

DIGITIZE YOUR LIFE.

Visit

SHOW

LOVE.

GET YOURS.

SUBSCRIPTIONS: Order a subscription of your favorite magazine to be delivered directly to your home for just $72. Each subscription includes 12 consecutive issues of Lake & Sumter Style, Village Style or Healthy Living. Choose 2 or more magazines for $85 per year. To order, call 352.787.4112 or mail us at: Subscriptions at Akers Media, P.O. Box 490088, Leesburg, FL 34749.

CHANGE OF ADDRESS: If you are a seasonal resident or have moved, send your address change request to general@ akersmediagroup.com or mail us at: Subscriptions at Akers Media, P.O. Box 490088, Leesburg, FL 34749.

BACK ISSUES: Order a single issue by mail for $7, or 2 or more single issues for $9. To pick up a back issue from our office, please call 24 hours in advance.

HEALTHY FINANCES = A HEALTHY LIFE

Every year we publish an issue completely dedicated to finances, and every year we hear questions from readers asking, “Why finance? Aren’t you a health magazine?” The answer is twofold. Yes, we are a health magazine, but we are more like a self-help magazine. Our mission is to promote a well-balanced lifestyle, and we feel there are four areas in life everyone should focus on to live in balance.

We emphasize the importance of mental, spiritual, physical, and financial health as the four pillars of the magazine. If you are unhealthy in any of these categories, then you are out of balance. Also, it is a fact that financial issues are one of the leading causes of divorce, stress, and anxiety. So you see, money has a large impact on your health and well-being.

However, this year we decided to change things up a bit and focus more on financial fitness for the entire family. Not enough parents teach their children the value of money, allowance, economics, and how to earn money.

When I was a child, my parents taught me hard work was the only way to earn the money I needed to buy the things I wanted. I never seemed satisfied with the clothing choices my mom made for me; I wanted to have the same clothes as the “cool” kids. So my mom told me I was more than welcome to go out and earn money to buy those clothes myself. So I did. I found babysitting jobs, lawn maintenance jobs, and car washing gigs, just to name a few. I’ve had a steady job since I was 14 years old and I have always enjoyed the ability to earn my own money.

While these lessons have been valuable to me throughout my life, there was one aspect my parents failed to teach me and that was how to manage my money. In fact, I recall when I opened my first checking account at the age of 18, I thought if I had checks that meant I had money. And when I would pull my balance total for my checking account, I thought that was how much money was available for me to spend, not taking into account I had written checks that had not cleared my account yet. Needless to say, I learned the hard way, and very quickly.

In this month’s issue, we offer parents helpful advice on how to teach children the meaning of allowance, when to provide an allowance, and how allowance can and should be earned. We offer helpful advice on budgeting, and how to stretch your dollars and maximize every penny of your paycheck. Also, it is my personal mission to ensure young children do not wait until they are adults to learn how to manage their money. I speak from experience when I say if you wait to learn about finances until you are an adult, it is a hard, painful experience that absolutely can be avoided.

As always, I hope you find value in this month’s issue, and I invite you to offer feedback or ideas for future issues.

Sincerely,

KENDRA AKERS publisher/editor-in-chief kendra@akersmediagroup.com

DOUG AKERS vice president doug@akersmediagroup.com

JAMIE EZRA MARK chief creative officer jamie@akersmediagroup.com

EDITORIAL // DESIGN // PHOTOGRAPHY

JAMES COMBS staff writer james@akersmediagroup.com

LEIGH NEELY staff writer/copy editor leigh@akersmediagroup.com

MICHELLE CLARK staff writer michelle@akersmediagroup.com

SHEMIR WILES staff writer shemir@akersmediagroup.com

JOE DELEON creative director joe@akersmediagroup.com

STEVEN J. CODRARO senior art director steve@akersmediagroup.com

JOSH CLARK senior designer josh@akersmediagroup.com

MICHAEL GAULIN production director michael@akersmediagroup.com

FRED LOPEZ chief photographer fred@akersmediagroup.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS//PHOTOGRAPHERS

JAIMIE ALONSO RICHARD BOSSHARDT RACHEL CRUZE

KATHY INGOLD FRED HILTON PAT JOCELYN

SALES // MARKETING

TIM MCRAE vice president of sales tim@akersmediagroup.com

HEIDI RESSLER account representative heidi@akersmediagroup.com

DAVID COTE director of marketing david@akersmediagroup.com

MIKE STEGALL senior account representative mike@akersmediagroup.com

LYNNE KELLEY account representative lynne@akersmediagroup.com

MELANIE MELVIN director of client services melanie@akerscreative.com

ADMINISTRATION

DEB MATLOCK office manager deb@akersmediagroup.com

AUBREY AKERS advertising coordinator aubrey@akersmediagroup.com

SHAENA CHASTAIN receptionist shaena@akersmediagroup.com

DISTRIBUTION

SCOTT HEGG distribution manager scott.hegg@akersmediagroup.com

Kendra Akers Ak

Comments or questions for our publisher?

Our goal is to provide you with the best quality publication, so your feedback is vital.

PETS: A HEALTHY INVESTMENT

Few things in life are as enjoyable as owning a pet. Pets make loyal companions and love you unconditionally. Of course, few people realize being a pet owner also comes with added health benefits.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), pets decrease blood pressure, cholesterol levels, triglyceride levels, and feelings of loneliness. Having pets also increases opportunities for socialization and outdoor exercise. If you would like a pet, consider contacting the following Lake County animal rescue shelters:

Humane Society of Lake County (Umatilla)

352.589.7400

The Animal League (Groveland)

352.429.6334

Houndhaven, Inc. (Minneola)

352.243.9795

Cat Protection Society (Eustis)

352.589.6228

Pet Lovers Rescue (Lady Lake)

352.598.1588

Humane Society/SPCA of Sumter County (Lake Panasoffkee) 352.793.9117

A TOAST TO RESPONSIBLE DRINKING

April is Alcohol Awareness Month. While one ice-cold beer or a tasty glass of wine is relatively harmless for most people, binge drinking can ultimately lead to alcohol addiction. According to the CDC, binge drinking is defined as “consuming four or more drinks per occasion for women and five or more drinks per occasion for men.”

If you are an alcoholic who needs help, call the Lake-Sumter chapter of Alcoholics Anonymous at 352.360.0960.

STEPS TOWARD A CURE GRIN AND BARE IT FOR CANCER

If you want to raise funds for cancer research and create awareness about this deadly disease, consider participating in the American Cancer Society’s Relay for Life. This year’s events in Lake and Sumter counties are as follows:

The Villages:

April 1 at New Covenant United Methodist Church

Leesburg:

April 16 at Leesburg High School

Mount Dora/Sorrento:

April 23 at Sorrento

Elementary School

South Lake:

April 29 at East Ridge High School

Sumter County:

April 29 at Sumter County Fairgrounds

Eustis/Tavares:

May 6 at Ferran Park

North Lake:

May 14 at Umatilla High School

For more information, call 352.326.9599.

TECHNOLOGY THAT’S SICK!

Swaive Corporation made the world’s first smartphone-enabled ear thermometer. Sickweather developed the world’s first real-time map of illness.

Now, the two companies have partnered to allow Swaive thermometer users to anonymously volunteer their fever data to the Sickweather community for tracking colds, flu, strep throat, and more.

“Our customers will also see which illnesses are trending in their area while they are using our thermometer,” said Gurpal Bhoot, CEO of Swaive. “It adds a whole new dimension to understanding which illness they may have before taking the next steps in seeking appropriate medical care.”

The Swaive thermometer works with both iOS and Android and is available in the Apple Store and on Amazon.

The Greater Clermont Cancer Foundation is proud to present its annual event, Bras for the Cause and Boxers

Too! This fun-filled fashion show and silent auction features whimsically themed and decorated bras and boxers designed and donated by members of the community. The event will be held April 16 at the Clermont Arts and Recreation Center.

Attendees can enjoy wine and hors d’oeuvres and bid for the privilege of owning one or more of these customdecorated garments. The Greater Clermont Cancer Foundation provides financial aid and other free services to community cancer patients, their families, and caregivers.

For more information about the event, call 352.435.3202.

Our team…

…has the highest level of education and skill. …uses top-notch technology and equipment. …provides the best possible care to our patients. …is getting bigger.

Meet the newest team members.

DR. ROBERT L. PURDON

Dr. Robert Purdon, a radiation oncologist for 30 years, loves being part of RBOI. While he feels honored to offer patients advanced technologies and techniques, the most rewarding part of the job is interacting and forming genuine relationships with patients.

DR. HERMAN FLINK

We’re excited to announce the addition of Dr. Herman Flink, a radiation oncologist for nearly 40 years who is board-certified in both radiology and radiation oncology. He completed his residency and fellowship at Johns Hopkins University.

THE VILLAGES 352.259.2200

OCALA 352.732.0277

TIMBER RIDGE 352.861.2400

INVERNESS 352.726.3400

LECANTO 352.527.0106

RBOI.COM

A MATTER OF LIFE AND BREATH

Colleen Steadman’s every breath relies on lungs that once belonged to other people.

The lungs are the greatest gift she ever received because they’ve kept her alive the past 13 years.

Born with cystic fibrosis, Colleen underwent a double lung transplant at age 34. Because the procedure boosted her health and quality of life, the brighteyed, cheerful Leesburg resident strongly urges more people to become organ donors.

“So many people out there are waiting for organs. Sadly, many of them die while waiting,” Colleen says.

In fact, 22 people die every day waiting for transplants

hope and, more importantly, save their lives.

While spending two-anda-half years on the National Waiting List, she nearly died and did become wheelchairbound. However, life changed considerably after she underwent a 9.5-hour double lung transplant April 30, 2003, at the UF Health Shands Hospital.

“I was in the hospital for 28 days. When I was discharged, I remember walking across the parking lot in tennis shoes,” Colleen says. “That was very memorable because when I entered the hospital to have my surgery I was in a wheelchair. My husband was so happy that he started crying.”

Since the procedure,

and scalloping trips to Steinhatchee, a Gulf coastal community located north of Cedar Key. And she loves giving baths to her five cats and two dogs.

“If you can move, then get up and move. Don’t just sit around the house,” Colleen says.

bronchoscopy, a procedure where doctors check for possible airway narrowing.

that “can’t take place because of the shortage of donated organs,” according to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.

Colleen is living proof that organ donors give people with debilitating illnesses

Colleen, now 47, cherishes every waking moment. She walks two miles on a treadmill and swims laps for 45 minutes every day at the Leesburg Regional Medical Center Wellness Center. She takes occasional snorkeling

However, lung transplant recipients never live what most would consider normal lives. Colleen has breathing treatments twice a day and each morning uses a therapy vest to vibrate her chest and loosen mucus. She never enters a public venue during flu season without wearing a mask because catching a virus could be fatal. She also travels to Shands every six weeks to undergo a

“I don’t live like a hermit, but I am very cautious with everything I do,” she says. “I take my limitations with pride. There are so many people on a waiting list who end up dying, so I consider myself one of the lucky ones.”

Colleen hopes she is lucky enough to complete her bucket list, which consists of traveling to picturesque destinations such as Hawaii, Niagara Falls, and the Grand Canyon. She also wants to throw a birthday bash when she turns 50.

“That will be a milestone for me, and I’m looking forward to a big celebration.”

“SO MANY PEOPLE OUT THERE ARE WAITING FOR ORGANS. SADLY, MANY OF THEM DIE WHILE WAITING,”

WRITER: JAMES COMBS PHOTO: FRED

LOPEZ

WHOA, WHAT’S THAT SMELL?

WRITER: FRED HILTON

It may have happened to you. You’ve enjoyed a nice dinner, maybe a juicy steak, a loaded baked potato, and a side of fresh asparagus. Soon afterward, nature calls. You go to the bathroom and suddenly a foul odor rises up and fills the room. You blame it on the asparagus, but you’re not sure why.

It’s not the fault of modernday chemicals and additives. Asparagus has been stinking up bathrooms for centuries. According to Smithsonian magazine, Benjamin Franklin noted in a 1781 letter to the Royal Academy of Brussels that “A few Stems of Asparagus eaten shall give our Urine a disagreable Odour.” Franklin was trying to convince the academy to discover a drug that would make passed gas “not only inoffensive, but agreable as Perfumes.” That goal, sadly, has still not been achieved.

French novelist Marcel Proust also commented on asparagus’ effect on urine. He wrote that the vegetable “transforms my chamber-pot

sels sparar Urine Frankce the d gas ut That been el on ne. able er-pot

into a flask of perfume.”

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The culprit is asparagusic acid, which, as far as scientists know, is only found in asparagus. When our bodies digest asparagus, it’s broken down into a group of related sulfur-containing compounds. Like many other substances that contain sulfur, these molecules convey a powerful, typically unpleasant scent.

por through the urine. That’s the aroma you smell when the compound exits your body.”

lack the ability to smell it.

According to the Huffington Post, Dr. Anish Sheth, a gastroenterologist at Princeton Medical Group, said, “As your body digests food, it breaks down different compounds through the enzymatic process. In the case of asparagus, its compounds are volatile and released as a va-

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We don’t all smell “asparagus pee,” but there’s no clear conclusion why. Some of us simply don’t smell anything unusual when urinating after eating asparagus. Estimates vary widely on the percentage of those who do, and do not, smell the asparagus odor. Scientists aren’t sure why many people smell the odor but others don’t. One opinion is some people don’t produce the aroma in their urine when they digest asparagus.

“The digestive process is pretty constant from person to person, but a person’s ability to detect these odors varies,” Sheth said. “We all have our own idiosyncratic smell perception of the world,”

We may not be sure why some people can’t smell the odor asparagus creates but we do know asparagusic acid is the cause. It is clearly the No. 1 reason for funky “number one” smells.

Sources:

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Why Asparagus Makes Your Urine Smell,” by Joseph Stromberg, Smithsonian Magazine, Smithsonian.con, May 3, 2013 http://www.smithsonianmag.com/sciencenature/why-asparagus-makes-your-urine-smell49961252/?no-ist

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Michael W http://ww smells-fu

Why Your Pee Smells Funny After Easting Asparagus,” by Carolyn O’Neil, MS, RD, reviews by Michael W. Smith, MD, WebMD, July 1, 2010 http://www.webmd.com/food-recipes/why-peesmells-funny-eat-asparagus

Asparagus Pee Is Real, But Only Some Of Us Can Smell It,” by Kate Bratskeir, The Huffington Post, October 31, 2014 http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2014/10/31/ asparagus-pee_n_6077006.html

Aspara Sme Octo t http://ww asparagu

Why Does Asparagus Make Pee Smell Funny?” by Sharon Tanenbaum, Senior Editor, EverydayHealth.com, January 11, 2012 http://www.everydayhealth.com/healthyliving/0111/why-does-asparagus-make-pee-smellfunny.aspx

Why does asparagus make some people’s urine smell but not others?” by Duane Mellor, The Independent, October 6, 2015 http://www.independent.co.uk/news/science/whydoes-asparagus-make-some-peoples-urine-smellbut-not-others-a6683661.html

Why Do EverydayH http://ww living/011 funny.asp do sm Independ http://ww does-asp but-not-o

HERITAGE DENTAL

ALL SMILES

Once their visit is complete, patients of Heritage Dental and Dentistry on the Square leave with a smile that beams with pride—a smile that was not only created through the use of leading-edge techniques and equipment, but also by the hospitality and friendliness of the dental team.

Putting smiles on the faces of patients is gratifying for Drs. Kenneth Cohrn, Rob Pellosie, and his wife, Linda Pellosie. Sure, they stay abreast of the latest dental technology so patients will receive comprehensive care, but they haven’t forgotten what matters most: relationships and trust.

Healthy Living recently talked to the dental team and learned about exciting things happening in the practice.

HL: Dr. Cohrn, tell us why you’re excited about Dr. Rob and Dr. Linda as part of the team?

Dr: Cohrn: Patients benefit by having a seasoned practitioner with a variety of skill sets coupled with two partners who bring new ideas and a fresh perspective to whole patient care. It’s a great combination.

HL: Dr. Rob, what are some of the treatments you and Dr. Linda brought to the practice?

Dr. Rob: We use oral appliances to assist people who have sleep apnea breathe easier and sleep much better at night. My wife adds an esthetic perspective using Botox and Juvederm treatments.

HL: What other dental services does your practice offer?

Dr. Cohrn: We offer a broad variety of services, including a spa environment, implants, orthodontics (Invisalign), cosmetic dentistry and periodontal laser treatment. For us, in addition to the latest advances in dental technology, it’s all about patient comfort and trust.

HL: Dr. Cohrn, you expanded the practice by adding Dentistry on the Square, at Lake Sumter Landing. What do you attribute your growth and success to?

Dr. Cohrn: Loyalty and staff who are responsive to patient’s needs. We empower patients to take control of their dental health by making informed decisions.

HL: Tell us something about you that the readers may not know.

Dr. Rob: Well, following in the steps of my dad, an Air Force fl ight surgeon, I enjoy fl ying. I am currently working on my instrument rating.

Dr. Linda: My most recent and greatest accomplishment is our six month old son, Andreas. I am

originally from Norway it’s very difficult to find a mountain to snow ski in Florida.

Dr. Cohrn: I am a boarded forensic odontologist. As such I get to work with medical examiners, law enforcement and disaster teams on extremely interesting yet challenging cases. I’m a Vietnam vet and proud of it.

For more information, call Heritage Dental at 352.750.4111 or Dentistry on the Square at 352.775.4515. You can also visit www.dentistryonthesquare.com or www.heritagedentaloffice.com.

West Financial Group ACHIEVE FINANCIAL FREEDOM

No longer part of the workforce, you look forward to spending weekends on the golf course and maybe even taking a cruise to the Bahamas.

To be able to enjoy those things, it’s vitally important to have a post-retirement financial plan in place. After all, people are living longer these days, and the last thing you want is to outlive your hard-earned money that you’ve accumulated throughout your lifetime. Your investment philosophy changes from return on principal to return of principal, shifting away from high-risk investments to investments with lower risk.

Skip West and his dedicated team at West Financial Group are passionate about helping clients meet their fi nancial needs in retirement. Skip, who graduated from the University of Arkansas with an industrial engineering degree, has spent some of his career in corporate America. He later started a solar pool heating company with $5,000. In 20 years, the company achieved a net worth of $20 million.

But few things excite him more than helping clients manage money during their retirement years. That’s evident by the fact that more than 90 percent of his business comes from referrals.

“None of my clients have ever lost a dime,” said Skip, who is president/chief executive officer of

the company. “At West Financial Group, we work closely with clients and get to know their financial and personal situations to find the right products for their retirement goals and risk tolerances. I enjoy being there for clients all the time. I develop personal, one-on-one relationships, and every client has my cell phone.”

Working alongside Skip is Becky Kelly, who has a background in accounting and serves as the company’s vice president/chief financial officer. She is equally passionate about helping clients achieve financial success through proper planning.

“We take a team approach here,” she said. “We sit down with clients, discover what their needs are, and make sure we’re a good fit. We also frequently communicate with them through emails and special events.”

West Financial Group helps clients achieve fi nancial success through annuities and life insurance. Annuities can help increase savings, protect what you’ve saved and generate a stream of income. Two big advantages of annuities are that you can generate a fair return without market risk and can create an income stream you can never outlive. More importantly, you participate in a portion of the upside of the market and never participate in any of the market’s downside.

“With annuities, your principal can never go down and again you can earn a fair return without market risk,” Skip said. If you’d like to know how you can achieve fi nancial freedom during your retirement years, then visit

West Financial Group’s beautiful new offi ce located at Chesterfi eld Village Plaza located off S.R. 44 in Wildwood. For more information, call 352.461.0645 or visit www. westfinancialvillages.com.

Retirement represents your “golden years.” It’s a new chapter and a new beginning in your life.

HIGH QUALITY SURGICAL CARE FROM PHYSICIANS WHO CARE ABOUT YOU…

MID FLORIDA SURGICAL ASSOCIATES Ocoee

Jorge L. Florin, M.D.,F.A.C.S // Dr. Christopher Johnson, D.O.,F.A.C.O.S Jason Boardman, M.D. F.A.C.S. // Joseph Armotrading, M.D., F.A.C.S.

Clermont

10000 W. Colonial Dr. Suite 288 Ocoee, FL 34761 407.521.3600

1804 Oakley Seaver Dr. Suite A Clermont, FL 34711 352.243.2622

Understanding Venous Reflux Disease

Healthy leg veins contain valves that open and close to assist the return of blood back to the heart. Venous reflux disease develops when the valves that keep blood flowing out of the legs and back to the heart become damaged or diseased. As a result, vein valves will not close properly, leading to symptoms of:

Varicose veins // Leg heaviness and fatigue

Pain // Swollen limbs

Skin changes // Skin ulcers

Using ultrasound to scan your leg(s), your physician will determine if superficial venous reflux is present. Treatment is outpatient procedure performed in the office. Relief of symptoms within 2 days and the average patient usually resumes normal activities within a few days.

For more information regarding the surgeons and procedures can be found on our website at: www.midfloridasurgical.com

MICHELLE WOOD, M.D. OBSTETRICIAN AND GYNECOLOGIST

SPECIAL DELIVERY

Holding a tiny newborn for the first time is an exceptional moment never to be forgotten. The physicians and staff who are a part of the Maternal Child Health Unit in the Life Center for Women at Leesburg Regional Medical Center (LRMC) work together to ensure it’s a special delivery. Sandy Mullin, RN, is director of the unit. “I’m extremely proud of what we offer here, and feel very blessed to be the leader of this program,” Sandy said. “We are committed to providing each of our patients with high quality care, including a great overall experience from the moment they enter our doors to well after they go home.”

LRMC, the largest and most comprehensive acute care provider in Lake County, is a part of the Central Florida Health Alliance along with The Villages Regional Hospital and Leesburg Rehabilitation Hospital.

The Maternal Child Health Unit at LRMC is a 14-bed unit complete with spacious Labor, Delivery, Recovery and Postpartum, or LDRP, suites that allow expectant mothers to remain in the same room before and after the delivery of their baby. The unit is also equipped with a nine-bed gynecology unit for post-operative care and Caesarean section patients and a 33-bed nursery when parents need time to rest or if a newborn needs extra care and observation.

Mullin said that in addition to patients having access to wellappointed facilities, her entire staff is certified to work in the unit. “We have a group of talented nurses

and other providers who have specialized training in obstetrics; moreover, they receive ongoing professional development education each year to ensure they remain on the leading edge of their field.”

Michelle Wood, M.D., a board-certified obstetrician and gynecologist with Lake OB/GYN Associates of Mid-Florida, said the hospital is always willing to take extra care when dealing with her patients. “Each pregnancy is

she ensures expectant mothers are aware of all the services available to them. “We see our patients in the first seven to nine weeks, and we give them information about the hospital then,” Wood said. “We encourage them to take advantage of the tours and attend classes so they’re fully prepared for the arrival of their baby.”

The physicians at Lake OB/GYN have worked seamlessly with LRMC over the years, and Wood said

and training for mothers who wish to breastfeed their babies. Fathers also have the opportunity to participate with training, including how they can support both mother and baby,” Mullin added.

To add a special touch, LRMC has formed a partnership with premier newborn photography experts, Bella Baby Photography. Each new mother receives a complimentary 15-minute photo session, complete with an online digital slideshow that enables long-distance family members to order their favorite photos remotely.

“Bella Baby Photography does not provide traditional newborn photography in that they take the time to capture the family in a manner that will be meaningful for many years to come,” Mullin said.

unique, and we try to make each delivery an enjoyable, safe event, and the hospital is committed to collaborating with us to achieve that,” Wood said. “It’s so good that the pediatric hospitalists are there if you need them and the anesthesia team is immediately available so we can make new mothers as comfortable as possible.”

Labor and delivery are the culmination of the pregnancy, but many things happen before the day of the big event. Wood said

patient comfort and safety have always been a priority. “Our practice has witnessed the amazing growth of the hospital as it has expanded to become the comprehensive medical center and regional leader for health care that it is today. They are wonderful partners.”

After each baby’s birth, a lactation consultant will visit with new mothers to teach them the proper technique for breastfeeding. “We strongly advocate breastfeeding and provide education

For those interested in experiencing the LRMC Maternal Child Health unit for themselves, tours of the family-centered nursing units are held the third Monday of every month at 5 p.m. Parentsto-be may also visit as part of the Prepared Childbirth, Newborn Care, or Breastfeeding classes offered at the hospital.

FOR MORE INFORMATION LEESBURG REGIONAL MEDICAL CENTER

600 E. Dixie Ave. Leesburg, FL 34748 352.323.5762

Classes, hospital tours, physicians or any other questions you may have about pregnancy or birth, visit www.leesburgregional.org

“We are committed to providing each of our patients with high quality care, including a great overall experience from the moment they enter our doors to well after they go home.”

While children will learn plenty about reading, writing, and arithmetic, schools are neglectful by not teaching them how to be financially literate. Therefore, the responsibility is on parents to teach their children about matters related to money.

Parents also need to be good financial role models. Taking a weekend trip to Las Vegas instead of paying down credit card debt doesn’t exactly cut it. Conversely, paying bills on time and not running up a credit card will encourage kids to do the same when they’re adults.

There are things you can do as parents to help your kids achieve financial and personal responsibility.

PIGGY BANK 101

Tom Ruggie is owner of Ruggie Wealth Management in Tavares. Therfore, it’s no surprise that Tom, a chartered financial consultant (ChFC) and certified financial planner (CFP), taught his children to be financially savvy at a young age.

As a matter of fact, his daughter, Gina, and son, Christopher, began saving and investing at age 5. Fifty percent of their allowance or other money earned was put into a money market account. As the money market grew, Tom required them to put a portion of the money into stocks.

“I made a list of stocks they would be familiar with, such as McDonald’s and Walt Disney World,” he says. “I let them make the decision of which stock they wanted to invest in. Then I showed them how to make an Excel spreadsheet and track how their stocks were doing. People need to understand that sometimes they’re going to lose in the stock market. I wanted my children to realize that at an early age so they wouldn’t put blinders on and make emotional decisions.”

Those early financial lessons have certainly paid dividends for Gina, a 27-year-old University of Central Florida graduate who currently is employed as manager of operating participants at Walt Disney Parks and Resorts. She invests 30 percent of her net income and has never asked her father to borrow money.

WRITER: JAMES COMBS PHOTOS: FRED LOPEZ

Christopher is now 14 and continues learning the finer points of managing money. He and Tom watch the reality show “Shark Tank” and read numerous business-related books together, including Dale Carnegie’s “How to Win Friends and Influence People.”

“Once an episode of ‘Shark Tank’ is over, I’ll ask him questions about some of the investment decisions made on the show to get his mind thinking,” Tom says, “and when we’re reading a book I make him write a summary to help me understand what he has learned.”

A FEW TIPS FROM TOM WHEN IT COMES TO CHILDREN AND FINANCE:

1. “Whenever my kids wanted to purchase something such as a game system, I rarely helped them financially. Instead, they had to save their own money because I wanted them to learn about the importance of setting goals at a young age. When children want something it’s not about immediate gratification; it needs to be goal-oriented.”

2.“The one time I did loan my children money I charged

CENTS-LESS SPENDING

Many people throughout the world view Americans as materialistic and wasteful spenders. Based on the following numbers, their perception may not be far from reality.

them $1 per week in interest. They never asked me for money again.”

3. “I also taught my kids about the importance of budgeting. Each year at Christmas I would give them $75 so they could buy gifts for other people. I had them write out who they needed to buy gifts for, what they were going to buy, and how much each gift cost. If they went over their budget they had to either eliminate someone from their list or use their own money.”

4. “I still include Christopher when it comes to family finan-

cial decisions. For instance, I recently moved into a new office and went shopping for desks. I wanted Christopher to see that you get what you pay for.”

THE DOS AND DON’TS OF ALLOWANCE

1. Don’t take away his or her allowance as a means of

punishment, such as getting in trouble at home or school. Similarly, if a child performs a good deed, like helping the neighbor carry in groceries, don’t give your child extra allowance. A child may erroneously think that all acts of kindness should be rewarded.

2. Do verbally let your children know when they have done something good or bad.

3. Don’t over-manage their money.

4. Do use allowance to teach basic moneymaking skills and let them learn from their mistakes.

5. Don’t feel obligated to pay as much allowance as your neighbors and friends.

6. Do give them an allowance that is reasonable for your

$66.5 BILLION

HOW MUCH AMERICANS SPENT ON LOTTERY TICKETS IN 2011

According to CNN ry

$1,092

HOW MUCH REGULAR COFFEE DRINKERS SPEND ON COFFEE EACH YEAR

According to a survey by Accounting Principals

SOURCES: usatoday.com/story/money/personalfi

nance/2014/03/24/20-ways-we-blow-our-money/6826633/; momjunction.com/articles/handy-tips-make-teenager-responsible_00118480/; care.com/a/9-tips-for-teaching-kidsresponsibility-1303120948; pamf.org/parenting-teens/general/family-life/allowance.html; dealsplus.com/blog/dos-donts-giving-kid s-allowance/

family’s financial situation.

7. Don’t question their purchases.

8. Do have them carefully track where they are spending their money. This way they can see how quickly money can be spent or how fast money accumulates through saving.

9. Don’t give kids an allowance regardless of whether they completed their chores or not. This will inevitably lessen the value of responsibility.

10. Do be consistent with paying allowance. Why should children hold up their end of the bargain when you cannot hold up yours?

TEACHING CHILDREN PERSONAL RESPONSIBILITY

There’s little surprise as to why today’s youth has been nicknamed the “Me First” generation. Sadly, advanced technology such as the Internet and cell phones have resulted in a generation of impatient youth who expect instant gratification. Parents are equally guilty by giving into the demands of their children and buying what they want when they want it. This results in a poor work ethic

$400 HOW MUCH THE AVERAGE AMERICAN LOSES EACH YEAR TO GAMBLING

and a lack of gratitude. Why work for something when it will be given to you, and why be thankful when you always get what you want?

Fortunately, entitlement does not have to trump personal responsibility in your household. Here are some simple things you can do that will stop your child from waking up each morning and wondering, “What is everyone going to do for me today?”

START YOUNG

Waiting until your children are teenagers to begin assigning responsibilities is a mistake. If they’ve never had responsibilities before, they will not want to begin now. Teach them at a young

$859.6 BILLION AMOUNT AMERICANS OWE ON CREDIT CARD DEBT AS OF JAN. 2014

According to Federal Reserve statistics

age how to do simple tasks such as making a sandwich or making their bed.

ASK FOR THEIR HELP

Be enthusiastic—not grumpy—when you have to do housework. If you appear angry, then they’ll follow suit and view any task as tedious. Think of innovative ways to make chores fun so children feel a sense of togetherness.

DON’T GIVE THEM ANY AWARDS

Nobody should be rewarded because they’re responsible. Rewards should be saved for good report cards or good behavior.

$117 BILLION HOW MUCH AMERICANS SPEND ON FAST FOOD EACH YEAR

LET THEM MAKE CHOICES

If the family is going to buy a new television set or planning a summer vacation, then let your children provide ideas and input into those decisions. This definitely gives them a sense of responsibility.

ENCOURAGE VOLUNTEERISM

This is a great way to let your child know the world does not revolve around him or her. Moreover, being involved in a worthy cause will teach the child to take responsibilities seriously and develop a wonderful sense of belonging.

TEACH CONSEQUENCES

If your child fails to complete assigned tasks such as mopping the floor or cleaning dishes, then some sort of punishment must be administered. This way, a child will learn to accept responsibility for his own actions rather than make excuses or assign blame to someone else.

$7 BILLION THE TOTAL AMOUNT OF ATM FEES IN THE U.S. IN 2010

ENTERING THE TABERNACLE

Meredith Cheshire and Sarah Rimel want to help people slow down and make time to communicate with God in an effective and meaningful manner. They believe they have found that with The Tabernacle: a Bible-Based Meditation Program.

“It all started for me when my parents passed away,” Meredith says. “I began taking classes in different aspects of spiritual meditation. Some included new

technology and the technology was interesting to me.”

The basis of the process is that prayer is asking God to help while meditation is listening for the answers from God. Many people forget that communication is a two-step process when they’re talking to God. While time is taken to pray, no time is taken to “Be still and know that I am God,” as the scripture in Psalm 46 says. The first verse of the Psalm is “God is

our refuge and strength, an everpresent help in trouble.”

These two verses present the concepts of meditation Meredith and Sarah have prepared for their meditation called “The Tabernacle.”

During her studies and classes in spiritual meditation, Meredith sought to find a way to connect praying to God and meditation to open herself to hearing God’s answers.

“We wanted people to have a progression to do this. We created a

model with boxes and little statues on a table,” Sarah said.” We had to decide how to we wanted to lead them and how we could direct them to move through what we’ve conceptualized in our minds.”

The Tabernacle has three distinct areas to explore while deepening the relationship with God. “You start at the Outer Court, go the Holy Place, and finally enter the Most Holy Place,” Meredith said.

After building their template for

Communication is the key, whether you’re talking about your relationships with friends or your relationship with God. However, the busyness of life often gets in the way of true communication with God.

a program, the ladies knew it was vital they get a music director who could complement the process with music. They wanted a producer who believed in the project as much as they did—they found J.S. Epperson. Though she didn’t know him personally, Meredith had some of his CDs in her personal collection. She emailed and called him.

During that time J.S. was praying, meditating and looking for direction for the future. He spoke to Meredith and told her he had to give some thought to the project.

“I was at the beach for three days and spent the whole time praying and walking on the beach,” J.S. says.

J.S. wasn’t sure this project was what he wanted at the time. He knew it would be big and time consuming, but he wanted a sign from God to know if telling Meredith and Sarah no would be the right thing to do, and he asked God for specific direction while meditating on the beach.

“On Monday as I was leaving, I decided to open the hotel bible to see if it would reveal anything,” J.S. says.

The bible opened to Exodus 39:38, “And the golden altar, and the anointing oil, and the sweet incense and the hanging for the tabernacle door.”

The materials listed in the verse are part of what God said must be used to build the tabernacle. J.S. knew he had received his sign and he knew God wanted him to be a part of the bible-based meditation program Meredith and Sarah were doing.

The music used during the meditations is created just for that purpose. “The tones are pure sound waves,” J.S. says. “And we mask them with music. It’s a full sound experience, emotional with the music and rhythmic with your heart rate.”

J.S. Epperson used monaural and binaural beats to create the tabernacle program. The program

mixes the beats and integrates them into the original music J.S. creates. The sound is then layered with the scripts Sarah and Meredith wrote and is put together as one complete piece of music. This lifts the listener to states of complete relaxation and a higher consciousness than is created with meditation alone.

Brain waves are identified as alpha, beta, theta, and delta. Each one is used to hasten the process

of getting to a calm, relaxed state without lengthy periods of concentration. This is not hypnosis or even the use of subliminal messages; whatever the participant hears comes from the individual’s brain. Imagination is the key, and using imagination as a child would is what brings about the desired result.

Participants don’t need to know how to meditate. Learning the basics is part of the process. There are 12 meditations—six for each day, and the cost is $299. This covers the cost of the class, workshop materials as well as breakfast, lunch, and snacks during the two-day event.

“The whole point of the meditation is to understand what God’s purpose is for you,” Meredith says. “God has a purpose for everybody.”

Workshops are held at Sand Crane Productions in a renovated Spanish Mission home in Fruitland Park. The facilities are warm and welcoming, and participants can move easily between the meditations rooms and the yard to create their own individual experience.

Sand Crane Productions

302 W. Berckman Street

Fruitland Park

352.431.3768

www.sandcraneproductions.com

info@sandcraneproductions.com

“The whole point of the meditation is to understand what God’s purpose is for you.”

— MEREDITH CHESHIRE

“I grew up in a squatter’s house in the [Ocala National] Forest. We were really poor and didn’t do welfare. If we didn’t hunt it, fish it, catch it, or grow it, we didn’t eat it. I swore to God I’d never live here—yeah, I know what these kids are going through.”

—PASTOR DAVID HOUCK, CEO/PRESIDENT OF THE HELP AGENCY, TURNING POINT MENTORING CENTERS, AND CAMP SOZO

STORY: PAT JOCELYN PHOTOS: FRED LOPEZ+PROVIDED

“There’s this 13-year-old girl whose family took off with her because she got pregnant,” Pastor David Houck said. “Nobody knows who the father is but rumor has it, it’s her brother. So they took off to avoid the authorities. In this neighborhood we’ve had 11-year-olds who’ve given birth—11-year-olds.”

Several years ago, Villager JoAn Suttle heard similar stories from Pastor David about at-risk children living in the Ocala National Forest. She knew she had to get involved.

“The pastor talked about

his nonprofit, The Help Agency,” JoAn explained.

“It provides a variety of assistance programs geared to help break the chain of poverty that exists in the forest. He told us about the mentoring centers that were helping improve the children’s grades and getting them into high school and later, college.”

As JoAn and others like her have observed, when Pastor David speaks, people listen. He’s an imposing figure of a man. Broad shouldered and standing more than six feet tall, his kind face sports a

beard sprinkled with grey, and he has a booming voice that quickly demands attention. However, his compassion-filled eyes grab you and pull you in, eyes that have seen it all. These eyes have witnessed more atrocities and misfortunes in a week than many people see in a lifetime.

The good pastor is married and lives in the Ocala National Forest in a modest doublewide trailer next door to Camp Sozo (a children’s summer camp that was his brainchild). He has 10 children of his own, six of them adopted, some

might say rescued, from less-than-desirable homes in the forest. His youngest is 18, and all have graduated from college or are still in college, an amazing accomplishment for a family whose income averages around $25,000 a year. After hearing the pastor speak for the first time, JoAn volunteered to help. “He told us he had been praying for a long time that he could come down here and speak to groups in The Villages,” JoAn explained. She and her husband, Don, vowed to make that happen and soon Sozo

Kids Club at The Villages was created.

“We figured we could hold four informational sessions each year and invite Pastor David to speak,” the Tennessee transplant said. “He just asked if we could let people know about his work and what he was doing.”

The club has 600 names on its mailing list and recently added an advisory committee. “People involved with Sozo Kids are really passionate about it,” JoAn continued. “One man discovered Pastor David needed a bush hog to clear brush from Sozo Camp land and donated money to buy one. Another couple raised money for a washer and dryer.”

JoAn said amazing things happened when Pastor David began giving tours in the forest. On a particularly hot day after riding in a van with no air conditioning, one of the tour members offered to help raise money for a better van.

“The tours really open people’s eyes,” JoAn said. “He doesn’t take us where it’s really bad but you’ll see homes that don’t have electricity or running water.”

Recently, Pastor David conducted a tour for JoAn and several other interested parties. “The biggest problem I have when speaking in The Villages is the misconceptions,”

Pastor David explained as he carefully eyed the onelane dirt road.

Without warning he quickly changed subjects, yelling to his guests, “How are your backs—they good?” Then his sturdy, but well-broken-in van picked up speed, plowing through several deep ruts causing at least one water bottle to fly through the air. Once past the threat of getting stuck, he slowed the van down and quickly maneuvered around several sharp turns, barely missing trees that hugged the side of the sandy road.

“There’s a misconception that everyone living in the forest lives in a tree or in the woods” he said, calmly continuing his story. “That’s not always true. For instance, there are old mobile home retirement communities with paved roads that are now neighborhoods for minimumwage families.”

He went on to say another misconception is that the people living in the forest won’t work, and everyone is on welfare, living off the government. Again, he said that’s just not true.

“Do you know how far you are out here?” he asked of his charges in the back seat. “Jobs are at least 25 miles from where we are right now. See that truck? If that truck stops working tomorrow, that guy stops working tomorrow. He may be an ablebodied man, but if he can’t afford to get the truck fixed, he isn’t going to work. He can’t pay his rent and his family can’t eat.”

There are good, hard-

working people living in the forest, but there are also a lot of problems—big problems. “Kids around here are told they’ll probably never make it beyond eighth grade,” Pastor David said. “They’ll have to get a job like everyone else. The parents are lying to them and don’t even know they’re lying. They believe they’re telling the truth because that’s what they heard growing up.”

So begins a neverending cycle of poverty, reckless decision-making born of desperation, and a deep-seeded sense of hopelessness passed down

from one generation to another. Pastor David’s mission is to break that cycle by focusing on the children—the children of the forest—and it begins with their education. “They need to know what’s possible. We take them outside the forest and they see things they’ve never seen before,” Pastor David said.

Other than going to

school, some children never ventured outside the forest; but when they see that other world and how they can fit into it…something magical happens.

“That’s when they begin to hope and they begin to dream,” he continued.

“We have [successful adults who were] mentored here, and they come back to mentor the new kids. We’ve got a kid who works in The Villages as a manager and makes about $60,000 a year—that kid was living in the forest and positive he was going to prison. There’s another one living in Jacksonville who’s making about $300,000 a year. We have teachers, pastors, missionaries, mortgage brokers. After

talking to [these adults], the younger kids realize it’s not unattainable after all. They learn it may take education and hard work, but it’s attainable.”

Pastor David’s monologue shifted once more as he pointed to some blown out windows in an abandoned trailer that was used as a meth lab. “This house is one of my all-time favorite meth labs,” he said with a sad smile. “This guy took a pot shot at us a few years ago, but don’t worry, he’s dead.

“That’s what our kids see,” he continued with a quick jerk of his head in the direction of the trailer. “Our kids know how to make meth.”

The pastor knows lur-

ing those children into a mentoring center can transform their young lives beyond their wildest dreams. What’s the initial draw to bring children into the center and keep them returning? Something as simple as handing out a free Popsicle® on a hot day. Once there, the young ones discover so much more: access to computers and free Wi-Fi so they can do their homework, air conditioning, pest control, and a clean environment, a working bathroom with running water, volunteer mentors, games, snacks, and a safe place to hang out. Most importantly, they feel an unfamiliar spark of hope ignite, creating a slow burn in their bellies.

On any given day as many as 400 children attend the four mentoring centers scattered throughout the forest. But it costs— a lot. “Electricity, building maintenance, insurance, supplies, food, gas—it all costs money,” he said. “It costs about $250 a month for each child in our program. We provide shoes, backpacks, haircuts, and attendance at Camp Sozo—all for free.”

The Help Agency renovates houses, find people jobs, and through the mentoring centers, helps get the kids from this forest through high school and later, college. There’s also a food bank that feeds 7,000 people a month.

The agency runs a volunteer and studentbased restaurant called

THERE ARE MORE THAN 6,500 CHILDREN IN THE FOREST

The Filling Station. Some of Pastor David’s kids work there and learn about the restaurant business and all-important work ethics. A “suspended meal” can be purchased by patrons and banked for someone who cannot afford to pay for their food.

“There are more than 6,500 children in the forest,” Pastor David said. “If you ignore the kids, in 15 years we’ll be yelling at those same kids [as adults] because they are making the same bad decisions their parents did.”

The mentoring program is often the key to unlocking the potential in those children. “One little girl

is now in 11th grade,” Pastor David said as his face lit up with parental-like pride. “We got her when she was in second grade without any possibility of passing. Now she’s flourishing. She’s making great grades. She wants to be a pediatrician and has every possibility of making that happen.”

It’s easy to believe Pastor David was with her every step of the way.

“See that tar paper shack?” he yelled back to the tour group. “That’s where the last kid I adopted lived for years. It has a dirt floor, no electricity, or running water. You dig a hole, go to the bathroom

in it, cover it up and go to sleep on it at night.”

Later, the pastor stopped the tour to talk to a fellow resident of the forest— John Johnson. He and his wife and four children live in a humble home that houses 14 people, all extended family. John has been unemployed for a year due to health problems. His wife works while he watches the children. Life is a constant struggle.

“It’s really tough because they said I can’t do any labor work and that’s all I know,” he explained in a subdued voice. “I’m just trying to save money which we can’t because we’re in such a bind. I’d

like to find us a place, something for these little guys.”

He pointed to his beautiful 4-year-old twins. “They’re amazing and I don’t want to see them have to struggle like I have. I don’t want anybody to go through what I’m going through. I hope they have a better future when they grow older. I didn’t have a lot. I see how much is out there, what they can accomplish if they put their minds to it.”

Pastor David echoed John’s words later as he ended his tour. “These people aren’t bad people,” he said. “What we’ve seen here on today’s tour is just the tip of the iceberg. These people are struggling and they want the best for their kids. Kids walk one or two miles from their homes to the bus pick up. They see everything from bobcats, bears, and rattlesnakes, to perverts, pedophiles, and meth labs. “I just want to give them some hope.”

For more information about The Help Agency, Sozo Kids, The Filling Station Restaurant, Pastor David’s information sessions or if your club/ group would like to sponsor one of their children, visit their website at sozokids.org or campsozo.com or call 352.753.8484, ask for Sozo Kids office, or email them at sozokids-office@ gmail.com

CHANGE A LIFE FOR GOOD Open Your Heart & Home to a Child

None of us can change the past, but we can always seek a brighter future.

This is the hope of hundreds of children right here in our communities who have suffered trauma—and who desperately need safe, loving homes. There are over 200 children in Lake County and another 75 in Sumter County who have been removed from their parents due to abuse and neglect. Of these, 100 children in Lake County and 25 in Sumter County are in licensed foster homes. Thus, there is truly a great and urgent need for foster and adoptive parents, especially for children ages 9 to 15.

Many social factors have led to this situation. Trying economic times have put an even greater strain on struggling families. The substance abuse epidemic found across the nation has struck many local homes. Parents in the grip of mental illness are often unable to care for their children.

Generational cycles of domestic violence make victims of innocent children. But while these societal problems are broad and complex, the solution is local and personal:

in Need

Fostering or adopting an older child gives you the opportunity to make a difference for a lifetime in a relatively short span of time. The formative years of 9 to 15 are a special window when many of the learned behaviors, attitudes, and approaches to life that carry us into adulthood are formed. By providing a nurturing home and guidance to a child in this critical age range, you can help them achieve a lifetime of greater success and happiness. You can help them escape from cycles of abuse and neglect, making a positive impact in the community for generations to come.

Like all parenting, fostering and adoption are challenging, but for those who feel called to care for children who have suffered abuse and neglect, the rewards are enormous. Please ask yourself if you are called to join the everyday heroes who open their hearts and homes to children.

Our plea to you— Just Take One

Make a difference in the life of one child as a foster or adoptive parent. Give them a fresh start with love and caring, an experience that they will carry with them always. You cannot change the past, but you can help heal the heart of a child who has suffered. You can change a life.

To learn more about fostering and adoption in our community, please contact Paula Mealy of Kids Central by calling (352) 387-3487 or emailing Paula.Mealy@KidsCentralinc.org. Kids Central is the nonprofit agency that coordinates foster care and adoption in our community.

WEIGHING THE ISSUE

WHAT DOES THE NORTH LAKE HOSPITAL TAX MEAN TO YOU?

WRITER: KATHY INGOLD KATHY

North Lake County property owners have a decision to make. The North Lake County Hospital District tax is up for a 10-year renewal in the November 2016 local election. If you’ve ever been curious about this line item on your property tax statement, you may want to educate yourself and share it with a friend.

The Northwest and Northeast Hospital Districts have been around for 50+ years and on June 15, 1995, a Florida law passed merging the two as an independent district to be known as the North Lake County Hospital District (NLCHD). The NLCHD was established to “provide uniform and adequate funding for indigent and other health care services in Lake County,” as stated in the 1995 Acts and Resolutions of the General Assembly of the State of Florida. The cities included follow a dividing line through most of Leesburg, Howey-in-the-Hills, Astatula, and everything north of those cities (Eustis, Fruitland Park, Tavares, Lady Lake, Mount Dora, and Umatilla).

Florida Hospital Waterman, Leesburg Regional

Medical Center, LifeStream Behavioral Center, and free clinics operating in partnership—Community Primary Health Clinic in Eustis, Community Medical Care Center in Leesburg, St. Luke’s Medical Clinic in Eustis, and LifeStream Primary Care Clinic in Leesburg)—receive funds from the district collectively. The services provided at the clinics are for uninsured residents of Lake County living at or below the poverty guidelines and who cannot otherwise obtain medical and dental treatments. “Our community’s clinics allow qualifying residents to access primary care in a more effective and efficient manner by giving them an alternative to simply utilizing hospital emergency departments for care,” said David Ottati, president and CEO of Florida Hospital Waterman. “The Clinics serve as a medical home for many residents helping them manage chronic diseases such as diabetes and heart disease that help improve the overall health status of our community. “

A six-member board of trustees oversees the NLCHD and a vote of four trustees is required for any business transaction. In addition, there is a

January annual meeting and special meetings as needed throughout the year. Meeting minutes, financial statements, and audits are available on the NLCHD website: northlakecountyhospitaldistrict.org.

Currently, all NLCHD funding comes from home and business owners within the district. The tax rate is one mil, or $1 per every $1,000 of a property’s taxable value. Median home values in Lake County are around $137,900, according to census.gov (20102014). After deducting qualifying homestead exemption, the annual hospital tax amount is approximately $100 for the median taxpayer living within the district. (See district map.)

The Affordable Care Act improved the number of uninsured persons in Lake County; however, the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services reports if Florida expanded Medicaid to low-income adults, an additional 848,000 uninsured people would gain coverage throughout the state. A recent meeting, held with Central Florida Health Alliance and the Leesburg Partnership, stated

“the number of uninsured residents in Lake County is approximately 45,000,” which is around 15 percent of residents in the county.

“The NLCHD provides more than $7 million in annual funding to the hospitals and clinics in the district in order to offset part of the cost of care for underinsured residents. In addition, more than $1 million is provided

each year to the free clinics located throughout the district, providing thousands of primary care visits each year to local uninsured families.”

Should the tax not be renewed, some changes to existing services will undoubtedly occur. The clinics may have to reduce their hours of availability, cut back on services offered, turn away patients needing help, or close facilities. Emergency rooms may see an influx of patients and subsequently, greater wait times could occur, not to mention overcrowding. Doctors, nurses, and medical staff whose livelihood depends on their employment within these facilities may also be affected. It could mean considerable impact.

Renewal of the tax will allow existing benefits to remain in place. While portions of the tax covers indigent care, benefits may

overlap in areas of up-to-date equipment, level of services provided, job market stability, and quality medical care in your backyard. High-level medical facilities impact property values, job markets, and economic development, which equates to a great place to live and thrive.

“We are thankful for the many years of support from the citizens of North Lake County,” stated Don Hen-

FLORIDA HOSPITAL WATERMAN COMMUNITY PRIMARY HEALTH CLINIC

2300 KURT ST. EUSTIS, FL 32726

352.589.2501

COMMUNITY HEALTH CENTER

1210 W. MAIN ST.

LEESBURG, FL 34748

352.787.8489

212 E MAIN ST

TAVARES, FL 32778

352-314-7410

NORTH LAKE HOSPITAL DISTRICT

LAKE COUNTY, FLORIDA

derson, president and CEO of Central Florida Health Alliance. “We strongly believe that renewing the hospital district and its support of vital local medical services will keep our community healthy and strong for many years to come.”

In order to make a knowledgeable decision about this tax, educate yourself and help others learn too. Before you vote, know your choices.

ST. LUKE FREE MEDICAL AND DENTAL CLINIC 722 S. GROVE ST. EUSTIS, FL 32726

352.602.4640

LIFESTREAM PRIMARY CARE CLINIC

P.O. BOX 491000

LEESBURG, FL 34749

352.315.7526

SOURCES: www.northlakecountyhospitaldistrict.org; edocs.dlis.state.fl .us/fl docs/leg/actsfl orida/1995/1995v2.pdf; www.lakecounty fl .gov/pdfs/gis/maps/hospitaldistricts_22x34.pdf; www.laketax.com/property_taxes/index.php; www.laketax.com/forms/2015_bill_exp lanation.pdf; www.federalregister.gov/articles/2016/01/25/2016-01450/annual-update-of-the-hhs-poverty-guidelines#t-1; www.fl oridahospital.com/waterman/experience/communi ty-primary-health-clinic; www.leesburgregional.org/services-community-center.html; www.census.gov/quickfacts/table/hsg010214/12 069; www.hhs.gov/healthcare/about-the-law/read-the-law/index. html; www.dailycommercial.com/news/article_0da4a176-cdd0-5ceb-afe8-da8b82fb90ba.html; www.medicaid.gov/medicaid-chip-program-in formation/by-state/fl orida.html; www.aha.org/research/rc/stat-studies/fast-facts.shtml; www.hhs.gov/healthcare/facts-and-featur es/state-by-state/how-aca-is-working-for-fl orida/index.html

“FREE CLINICS”

Michael A. Freedman, DO Otolaryngology

S. Dwight Vaught, MD Otolaryngology

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TIRED, ACHING OR HEAVY LEGS?

If yes then you may have a more serious underlying leg problem. Many people walk around daily with obvious venous insuffi ciency, many don’t know it. If you are one of millions that can see varicose veins, swelling, skin discoloration and even lower leg ulceration then you have venous insuffi ciency until proven otherwise.

Venous insufficiency is a condition where the veins have stretched to a point that the valves which control blood flow direction, allow blood to go the wrong way. Why? Mostly genetics, pregnancy, sitting or standing for long periods, trauma, age, previous blood clots as well as other possibilities.

Treatment options are much better than years past. Support socks/ stockings do NOT fix the problem, but do help slow its progression. All treatments are in the offi ce, under local anesthetic, last 15-20 minutes and does not require any down time. A venous scan is performed to fi nd the problem,then a series of thermal and chemical ablation treatments are used to “close down” the problem veins. It may take more than one visit, depending on the extent of problem. Two things I tell patients, “1, I must treat the bigger problem under the skin, before I treat the surface problems.” “2, Its gonna take some time, If you can see bulging veins on the outside of the leg, then the inside is even worse.”

The reasons we treat venous insuffi ciency is not only for cosmetic reasons. By taking control and treating the bad veins, your legs will have better circulation back up to the heart and will decrease the risk of the unforeseen blood clots.

Bryan Carter, MPA-C

BODY

“To keep the body in good health is a duty, otherwise we shall not be able to keep our mind strong and clear.”

— Buddha

SOLVING SLEEPLESS NIGHTS

WRITER: RICHARD BOSSHARDT, M.D.

Insomnia. The word conjures up vivid images in almost every adult. All of us have experienced sleepless nights for one reason or another. Tossing and turning in bed, trying to will a restful sleep that will not come. Staring at the ceiling as the minutes tick by at an excruciating pace, and knowing we will pay the price tomorrow.

WHAT IS INSOMNIA?

Insomnia is when one sleepless night follows another. Everyone has the occasional night of fitful wakefulness. In any given year, up to one third of adults experience a period of lack of restful sleep. Numbers are hard to come by because many episodes are never reported. To classify as true insomnia, one’s lack of restful sleep should last a week or more. Chronic insomnia is when poor quality sleep occurs at least three nights per week for a period of one month.

The impact of insomnia is huge and probably

grossly underestimated because the underlying insomnia is not recognized or reported. An estimated 10,000 automobile accidents annually are due to the driver falling asleep at the wheel from fatigue. In addition, there are countless workplace accidents that can be blamed on excessive daytime sleepiness. We know that lack of sleep can impair critical thinking and motor skills. It would not be a stretch to imagine the impact on productivity nationwide to be in the hundreds of millions of dollars.

CAUSES OF INSOMNIA

Causes of insomnia are legion and include just about anything: anxiety, stress, poor bedtime habits, unsuitable sleeping environment, irregular work shifts, etc. Exercise is healthy but exercising too close to bedtime can negatively impact sleep. Eating, drinking alcohol, or consuming a caffeinated beverage too close to bedtime can adversely

affect sleep. Just about any medical condition that results in discomfort of some sort can impact sleep. The list of medications whose side effects include disturbing sleep is longer than can be shown here.

HOME REMEDIES

You can bet the more treatments there are for a medical condition, the less effective these treatments probably are. If there were one effective treatment, or even just a few, everyone would use them. Home remedies for insomnia range from the classic glass of warm milk before bedtime to taking a few

“TO SLEEP, PERCHANCE TO DREAM–AY, THERE’S THE RUB.” HAMLET

teaspoons of apple cider vinegar. Some people swear by a warm bath. Others claim a handful of walnuts

and a glass of tart cherry juice will do the trick. Reading a book, listening to relaxing music, drinking some wine, and the always popular having sex are promoted by some. All of these and many others can work for some of the people some of the time. If your problem is a relatively recent one, there is nothing to be lost by trying some home remedies to see if they work for you.

MEDICAL TREATMENT

The first step is to see your primary doctor to learn if you have any medical conditions causing your insomnia. The list of possible conditions is also a long one. Check the medications you’re taking to see if they might be the cause. Once your doctor has ruled out obvious, correctable causes, the next step is to try to treat the insomnia itself. The main form of treatment today is called cognitive behavioral therapy, or CBT.

COGNITIVE BEHAVIORAL THERAPY

The American Academy of Sleep Medicine recommends CBT as the most effective treatment for insomnia. Seventy-five percent of patients who follow its recommendations are successful in achieving restful sleep. CBT is made up of five parts.

PART 1- SLEEP HYGIENE

EDUCATION: Patients are taught how to make their bedroom a sanctuary for restful sleep. Measures include covering any lights in the room, setting a cool room temperature, and making sure you have a comfortable mattress and pillows. Quit smoking. Avoid consuming alcohol, drinking caffeinated beverages, or eating within two to three hours of bedtime. Don’t watch TV in bed.

PART 2- Learn to recognize and control negative thoughts and anxiety about sleep.

PART 3-RELAXATION

TECHNIQUES: These include meditation, learning how to progressively tense and relax your muscles, and visualization, a technique used by many athletes to mentally picture the outcome they are striving for.

PART 4- Learn to associate your bedroom with sleep, not lack of sleep. Use your bedroom for sleep and sex, not for eating, watching TV, or work. Go to bed only when you are sleepy. Try to go to bed and wake up at a consistent time. Do not stay in bed if you do not fall asleep within 20 to 30 minutes. Get up and go do something relaxing until you feel sleepy. Try to avoid sleeping during the day.

PART 5- SLEEP RESTRICTION:

This one may seem odd when the problem is already a lack of restful sleep. It is a fact that laying in bed for too long without sleeping can actually worsen insomnia. To do this, a baseline time in bed is set for the patient. The time in bed is increased when patients sleep for at least 85 percent of the time they are in bed. It is decreased if they sleep for less than 80 percent. These adjustments continue until the desired amount of restful sleep is achieved.

DRUGS

A number of medications are available for insomnia, including sedatives, antihistamines, and antianxiety medications. All can work over the short term but they all become less effective over time and all may have undesirable side effects. Drugs can be used over the short time and to manage a crisis but they should always be supervised by a physician. When drugs are used, they are best used with CBT.

RESOURCES

The following organizations can provide very helpful information on their websites:

• The Society of Behavioral Sleep Medicine (www.behavioral sleep.org)

• The National Sleep Foundation (https://sleepfoundation.org)

• The American Board of Sleep Medicine (www.absm.org)

FOAM ROLLER FEVER: WHYISEVERYONEDOINGIT?

WHAT IS FOAM ROLLING AND WHEN DID IT BEGIN?

When healing or attempting to change, the body responds to specific motions, movements, and muscular triggers.

Musculoskeletal pain is often a result of illness, injury, or overexertion.

Janet Travell first introduced the term “myofascial,” used to describe this pain in medical literature, in the 1940s. It also described the pain syndrome and trigger points. Two decades later, the term “myofascial release” was being used in osteopathy.

Everyone knows the importance of fitness and overall wellness, yet we all tend to get caught up in fad products. Fitness models and trainers make it look and sound easy: Just buy this product, join this service, or pop this pill and look like the model on the left with the ripped abs and Hollywood smile. Of course, it never is that easy, and most fitness dabblers never look like a fitness model. In fact, most fad equipment ends up in a closet or a thrift store. However, if you look in the fitness models’ and trainers’ closets, you’ll see specific go-to equipment, and one of the mainstays of fitness professionals is a foam roller.

More than 50 years later that phrase encompasses therapeutic practices for pain relief, accessing trigger points for potential pain, and breaking down soft tissue surrounding body weak points or even existing scar tissue to increase muscular growth. Regardless of need, a foam roller is often utilized to reach the desired effect.

Foam rolling is thus the self-myofascial release option that involves rolling a large foam roller over a specific part of the body to manipulate the tissue and accelerate healing.

WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF FOAM ROLLING?

Foam rollers came into play in the 1980s. They were designed for Broadway dancers who were prone to muscle strains and torn tendons. Utilizing the now known

Feldenkrais method, dancers self-massaged their overly worked body parts after performing by standing or applying body weight to manipulate their massage.

Later, the technique was added to fitness training. To build muscle, body tissue must first tear. It’s that muscular scarring and layering that creates the girth and contouring we all find so appealing. Of course, too much scarring can lead to injury. Foam rolling helps in either case by breaking down the building scar tissue while aiding the muscular condition and repairing the injured tissue through self-myofascial muscular manipulation.

Runners or heavyset people can especially benefit from fascia repair. Plantar fasciitis is especially common in both cases. The thick band of tissue on the bottom of the foot, otherwise known as the fascia, becomes worn easily. When that happens, severe

ROLLING

and often debilitating pain starts seemingly out of nowhere. In many cases this leads to days or even weeks of bed rest or being out of the fitness circuit. Foam rolling helps rebuild that tissue, increase circulation, improve balance, and get you back into the fitness game faster.

WHO SHOULD BE FOAM ROLLING?

A better question would be who shouldn’t be foam rolling? Today’s modern lifestyle is full of stress. Regardless of whether you’re an overworked housewife or an NBA All-Star, injury and disease hit without warning. A foam roller is a simple, effective, and inexpensive staple that every household should have. Simply tripping over a rock in the yard can lead to shin splints or knee trouble. A foam roller acts as an in-home masseur by eliminating those daily stress knots.

Foam rolling helps increase flexibility, reduces the chance of injuries, and

increases performance in activities such as yoga, stand-up paddle boarding, and HIIT workouts. It is also a great cool down after heavy workout or spot days. Try a leg day at the gym or home without foam rolling at the end. Then try it with foam rolling. You’ll never look at leg day the same way again. Of course it’s not a magic pill. Nothing will work on its own if you’re unwilling or unable to accept that real change takes effort, commitment, and time. Lifestyle changes, including a better diet and stressreducing activities outside of the gym, are also essential elements.

With all the expensive gadgets and worthless products promising instant results, it’s hard to trust that something so simple does what it claims to do. But it goes beyond words and common sense. Science proves that foam rolling is truly a simple and beneficial self-myofascial therapeutic and muscular sculpting technique.

FOAM

HELPS INCREASE FLEXIBILITY, REDUCES THE CHANCE OF INJURIES, AND INCREASES PERFORMANCE IN ACTIVITIES SUCH AS YOGA, STANDUP PADDLE BOARDING, AND HIIT WORKOUTS.

PORK AND SALSA VERDE

SLOW COOKER MEAL | SERVES 4

This easy slow-cooker meal takes less than 15 minutes to prepare. With just six ingredients, you can have a nice hot meal by the time you get home from a busy day at work or school. The green salsa adds an amazing authentic flavor while it marinates the pork roast in your slow cooker.

INGREDIENTS

3

DIRECTIONS

Heat skillet, then add coconut oil or grapeseed oil and minced garlic. Season roast and cook in skillet until all sides are browned. Add roast, green salsa, and water to the slow cooker. Cook on low for five to six hours, or until internal temperature reaches 165 degrees and the pork is tender and thoroughly cooked.

“My favorite thing to do is teach how to cook easy, healthy, budget-friendly meals with minimal ingredients!”

Jaime Alonso, certified health coach

I received my initial training and certification as a wellness coach at Spencer Institute. I then continued my training as a health coach from the Institute for Integrative Nutrition’s cutting-edge health coach training program. During my training, I studied over 100 dietary theories, practical lifestyle management techniques, and innovating coaching methods with some of the world’s top health and wellness experts. My teachers included Dr. Andrew Weil, director of The Arizona Center for Integrative Medicine; Dr. Deepak Chopra, leader in the field of mind-body medicine; Dr. David Katz, director of Yale University’s Prevention Research Center; Dr. Walter Willet, chair of nutrition at Harvard University; Geenan Roth, best-selling author and expert on emotional eating; and many other leading researchers and nutrition authorities.

My responsibility at TNT is to help you create a “sustainable” lifestyle change. Meeting you where you are in your journey and equipping you with practical tools to grow and learn new strategies; teaching you how to shop and meal plan; helping you create new ideas; and learning how to go out to eat are a few of the hands-on lessons you receive. I teach you how to life well for life!

pounds lean pork roast

2 jars (16-oz.) of green salsa (I use The Fresh Market brand)

of mango lime seasoning (Or you may use your favorite blends)

A HEALTHY, QUICK, AND EASYTO-MAKE MEAL THAT’S READY IN MINUTES

MIND

“A healthy outside starts from the inside.”

— Robert Urich

FOODS THAT FIGHT STRESS

Life can be full of stress, with competing pressures pulling in every direction at once. For some people, stress turns into a recognized illness that needs treatment, while for most it’s accepted as an unfortunate fact of life that must be endured. This needn’t be the case. There are many ways to combat stress in day-to-day life, from relaxation techniques to taking time out for calming activities. But there’s one stress-buster that surprises many people: paying attention to diet.

DARK CHOCOLATE 1

TRYPTOPHAN 2

The link between what you consume and your state of mind is clear—you only need to consider the effects of too much coffee or too much alcohol to see that. The same principle goes for foods, as well as drinks. Some foods have a fast but temporary effect on your mental state, while others have a longer, cumulative effect.

If you suffer from anxiety, consider adding more of these food types to your diet.

cts of too hol to oes for foods

In addition to the serotonin-induced effect of consuming chocolate, which gives a temporary “rush” (which is why some people find chocolate so hard to cut down on), dark chocolate has long-term benefits. It’s a great source of magnesium and I-theanine, both of which are powerful natural relaxants, and studies have shown that over time, high levels of these substances can speed up the metabolism of stress hormones, thus reducing their effects. Eating a small amount of dark chocolate every day can result in a calmer disposition within as little as a fortnight.

every can in a calmer within as little as a

Tryptophan is an amino acid that increases serotonin levels in the brain, leading to calmness, a feeling of well-being, and even sleepiness. This effect is probably known best as the feeling you can get after a large turkey dinner. Turkey is indeed a good source of tryptophan, but that’s only half the story. Tryptophan needs carbohydraterich foods to be fully absorbed, which is why the combination of turkey and potatoes works so well. Nonetheless, although foods rich in tryptophan probably won’t work on their own, your body will store up reserves of tryptophan from the food you consume and release it when a good carbohydrate partner comes along. Good dietary sources of tryptophan include the aforementioned turkey and other poultry, along with eggs, milk, cheese, and other dairy products.

ZINC

VITAMIN B

3

A zinc deficiency has been shown to increase the chances of anxiety spiraling needlessly upwards. If you think you’re not eating enough zinc, then foods such as oysters and other seafood, dairy products, cereals, meat, and bread are all good natural sources.

4

Numerous studies have shown that a vitamin B deficiency can disrupt brain function, leading to panic attacks and increased anxiety. Are you eating enough citrus fruit, eggs, leafy greens, and dark meats?

FOODS WITH OMEGA-3 ACIDS

5Omega-3 fatty acids are essential for the smooth working of the brain. Think of them as mental lubricants, helping to reduce inflammation, improving function, and also combating the hormone cortisol, which can lead to elevated stress. Furthermore, studies showed adding fatty acids to the diets of prisoners in the United Kingdom reduced bad behavior by up to onethird, which could be taken as a sign of a healthier and calmer mind. Great sources of omega-3 acids include oily fish, such as salmon, sardines, or tuna. For those who don’t eat fish; seeds, beans, and leafy greens such as spinach are also good sources.

If your anxiety is a result of a medical condition or other serious problems in your life, it will take more than a simple change of diet to solve everything. However, a good diet rich in stressfighting substances gives your brain a solid foundation on which to better cope with the pressures life can throw your way.

IS MENTAL HEALTH LINKED TO

WEIGHT GAIN?

According to the National Institute of Mental Health, 18.1 percent of U.S. adults experienced a mental illness in the past year, as of 2014. Unfortunately, mental illness can have a negative impact on your physical health. It can even cause you to struggle with your weight.

DEPRESSION’S LINK TO OBESITY

Depression, a mental disorder characterized by feelings of helplessness, worthlessness, and sometimes thoughts of suicide, has been linked to obesity. Individuals who suffer from depression may experience appetite changes, alterations in their sleeping habits, and a loss of interest in activities they once found enjoyable. Weight changes may also be a symptom of depression. In a review of 16 different studies, researchers for a 2008 edition of the Journal of Health Psychology found that people with depression were significantly more likely to become obese than individuals without depression.

In a study of adult patients with depression, researchers for a 2014 publication of

“Nutrition Journal” found that 72 percent of participants were overweight or obese, and those who had been depressed longer had higher weights and body fat percentages. The link between depression and weight gain seems to be stronger among women. In a long-term study of both men and women, researchers for a 2012 edition of “Psychological Medicine” found women who experienced depression had more weight gain during the course of their adult lives than did men.

STRESS MAY EQUAL ADDED POUNDS

If the stress in your life has become unmanageable, you may find the number on the scale is getting bigger. A 2014 study in the journal “Obesity” found people who experienced three or more life stressors gained more weight during a five-year period than people who experienced no stressful life events. People with multiple stressors were at a higher risk of gaining weight during the course of the study. The relationship between stress and weight gain might be explained by changes in the brain’s response to food.

Researchers for a 2013 study

in “Physiology & Behavior” found women with high levels of chronic stress showed increased responses to high-calorie foods in areas of the brain associated with reward and motivation. When women with high levels of chronic stress were presented with a snack buffet, they consumed more high-calorie foods. Post-traumatic stress disorder, a more serious stressor-related mental illness, involves hypervigilance, nightmares, and unpleasant flashbacks following a traumatic event. This disorder has also been linked to changes in eating habits. Researchers for a 2013 edition of the “Journal of Traumatic Stress” found individuals with post-traumatic stress disorder were more likely to engage in emotional eating than individuals without the disorder. Those with more severe symptoms were also more likely to experience emotional eating. Study authors concluded this could lead to weight gain over time.

BIPOLAR DISORDER AND WEIGHT GAIN

Patients with bipolar disorder cycle between periods of depression and mania. During depressive states, patients experience sadness and low energy levels. They may also think of suicide. During manic states, patients with the disorder experience extreme happiness and excitement, and they also have increased energy. When manic, they may engage in risky behaviors, such as having unprotected sex and spending large sums of money. Unfortunately, patients with bipolar disorder may also find themselves gaining weight. In 2009, scientists for the journal “Psychiatry Research” analyzed eating behaviors among patients with bipolar disorder and found that 18 percent of them met criteria for binge eating disorder, whereas no subjects in a control group met these criteria. Compared to those in the control group, patients with bipolar disorder had significantly higher body

mass indexes and waist circumferences.

A 2015 study in the “Australian & New Zealand Journal of Psychiatry” analyzed eating patterns among individuals with bipolar disorder. Study results showed that individuals with bipolar disorder struggled with feelings of hunger and difficulty with healthy eating. The authors concluded these eating patterns may explain the high rates of obesity associated with bipolar disorder.

Because bipolar disorder and other mental illnesses are associated with obesity and weight gain, it is vital that you and your doctor discuss any concerns involving your mental health.

If you feel you are struggling with a mental health condition, your doctor can recommend an appropriate course of treatment, such as counseling or medication, and the two of you can work together to monitor your eating and exercise habits to ensure you maintain a healthy weight.

“I

SPIRIT

Inner peace begins the moment you choose not to allow another person to control your emotions.

—Author Unknown.

*@&?* SPIRIT

@& FIGHTING FAIR

“You never listen to me!”

“Don't you realize how stupid you sound?”

“I wouldn't act this way if you didn't push my buttons.”

“Oh, so now you're going to walk away?”

Do the above sentences look like transcripts from the last fight you had with your partner? If so, you may be using the wrong strategies to get through to each other. It's okay to fight; in fact, arguments in relationships act as release valves for negative emotions. The way you choose to communicate these feelings, however, can make the difference between a deep connection and a break-up waiting to happen.

Destructive patterns during conflicts plague healthy partnerships and increase the likelihood of a couple splitting up. Dr. John Gottman, a world-renowned relationship expert, refers to a set of unhealthy relationship habits as "The Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse.” They can be signposts signaling the end is near. Let's examine some of these low blows and discuss what you can do to turn your disagreements into fair fights.

o the above sentence wrong to g valves for e ence between a dee patter up. Dr. John Gottman, a worl Horsemen of the Apocalypse discuss what can do to tu

1. CRITICISM ISN'T CRITICAL TO CONNECTION

You find a wet towel on the bed again. You clench your teeth as you hang it and announce to your partner you're sick and tired of him never helping around the house. He returns the favor by accusing you of always being a control freak. Thus, the cycle of criticism continues.

When you attack your partner's character rather than address a specific behavior that bothers you, the result can be damaging. Expressing a desire for change in a constructive manner can keep things respectful rather than adversarial.

When you feel yourself getting fed up, try the following:

• Describe your partner's behavior, how it makes you feel, and why it's not acceptable.

• Use a “when you/I feel” statement.

• Avoid using phrases like “never” or “always.”

• Make the complaint about your feelings and what you need from your partner.

• Don't make accusations or place blame.

Example: “When you leave wet towels on the bed, it makes me feel frustrated because I'm working hard to keep this room neat. I'm starting to get overwhelmed with the mess. Can you please help out by hanging your towel up after you shower?”

2. IN CONTEMPT OF COURTING

She's been staring at her phone for the past hour. You feel furious at her for ignoring you while you've been trying to tell her about your brutal day at work. “You're so self-involved,” you sneer. "You're more interested in posting about yourself on Facebook than listening to me."

Well, that made her look up. If looks could kill, she'd be arrested for the glare she's shooting your way.

The insults, the eye rolling, the snarky remarks: these are all examples of behavior laden with contempt—conscious attempts to hurt each other’s feelings. This relationship killer poisons emotional intimacy between partners and causes a sense of distrust that can be tough to overcome.

The antidote for contempt is compassion. When you take a moment to put yourself in your partner's shoes, you'll find it's harder to disrespect her and easier to find common ground. Try the following to avoid contemptuousness:

• Take a moment to think how your partner would feel before you say something insulting.

• If you know something you say or do will hurt her feelings, don't do it.

• Use a “when you/I feel” statement.

Example: "When you keep checking your phone, I feel ignored. Can you please put it down for a minute? I've had a rough day and could use someone to talk to."

SPIRIT

@#!

never listen to me!”

3. YOUR DEFENSE IS OFFENSIVE

Your partner has just accused you of spending too much money. You feel like he's blaming you for all of the household financial problems, so you remind him of the many times he's ordered pizza instead of eating food in the house. Defensiveness can come in many forms, but here are some common tactics:

• Redirecting the accusation to blame your partner.

• Sidetracking the current disagreement by bringing up old arguments.

• Playing the victim.

• Making your partner feel guilty for complaining about something.

When you refuse to take responsibility for your behavior, moving past a problem together will be difficult. When your partner raises a concern, instead of getting defensive, try the following:

• Listen to what your partner has to say and try to hear it as a genuine request.

• Restate the problem without placing blame to help your partner feel heard.

• Try to find a solution together.

Example: "I hear you want me to stick to a budget. What can we do to work on this?"

HERE’S

1. Describe the offense.

2. Describe how your partner must feel.

3. Describe why you did it.

4. Describe what you’ll do to change.

5. Describe a self-imposed penalty for not changing.

4. LIKE HITTING YOUR HEAD AGAINST A STONEWALL

You just can't take the nitpicking anymore. You storm out of the house and go for a drive in the middle of another argument. She calls you three times in a row, but you ignore each call.

If you tune out or walk away and slam the door, you're stonewalling. If you're a man, you're more likely to resort to this tactic. However, women are quite adept at giving the silent treatment, as well.

It's normal to need a break to cool off in the middle of a fight. The next time you are itching to walk away, try the following:

• Explain you're starting to get upset and you need to take a break.

• Assure your partner that you want to hear what she has to say when you come back.

• If your partner needs a break, don't follow and give him/her the space they need.

You just said you were sorry. Now what's his problem? Why is he still holding a grudge? He won the argument, didn't he? Saying you're sorry just to end a fight isn't good enough. A sincere apology demonstrates understanding of a problem, acceptance you contributed to it, and willingness to make it right. A good apology will leave your partner satisfied that you are fully invested in his happiness.

Example: “I’m sorry I forgot to record the final episode of ‘Mad Men’ for you. You must be devastated. I got so caught up in my game that it completely slipped my mind. I’ll set the DVR to record a repeat airing. If I forget to record a show for you again, you have full permission to tell me all the ‘Game of Thrones’ spoilers.”

When you treat your partner like, well, a partner, you can expect cooperation instead of discord. If you use disagreements as opportunities to improve your connection with each other, you’ll increase your chances of having a long, healthy relationship full of happiness—and fair fights.

A FIVE-STEP FORMULA, CREATED BY ELLYN BADER OF THE COUPLES INSTITUTE, FOR CREATING AN EFFECTIVE APOLOGY:

A GUIDE TO MEDITATION

Meditation is a conscious form of relaxation that clears the mind and creates a peaceful mental state. The word originates from the Latin "meditatum," meaning "to ponder" but its Buddhist meaning is "Bhavana" or "mental development." Buddhist meditation practices come from the Buddha, known as the "Enlightened One," who believed you connect to your inner higher consciousness through meditation, and become a better human being. Here's a look at the benefits meditation offers, and how you can get started.

HEALTH BENEFITS OF MEDITATION

Meditation creates a relaxed and peaceful state that is a natural form of stress relief. Anxiety causes shallow, labored breathing that reduces blood oxygen levels, increases one’s heart rate, and can induce panic attacks. With meditation's slow, deep breathing techniques, air flows deeply into the diaphragm. Sufficient inhalation of oxygen and exhalation of carbon dioxide improves blood flow and oxygen delivery, and creates a feeling of well-being. You become calmer, which helps prevent stress-related problems such as anxiety and depression.

Meditation is also good for your heart, as it distances you from stress-inducing situations and creates a calm, relaxed state that reduces your pulse and respiration rates. People who meditate regularly have

lower heart rates, reducing high blood pressure.

Relaxation can boost your immune system to help fight infection and disease. Deep, measured breathing stimulates lymph flow in your body and eliminates toxins from the cells.

MENTAL BENEFITS OF MEDITATION

Meditation relieves stress and gives you a calmer perspective. Calmness promotes clarity, which helps you avoid hasty decisions or clouding your judgments with strong emotions, such as hate and anger. Many people find sleep patterns improve when stress levels decrease while others

find relaxation helps them quit stress-related habits like smoking and drinking.

Negative feelings affect your physical and emotional health if they are not resolved. Meditation combines physical and mental control to develop kindness, peacefulness, and happiness from within. As you filter negative emotions, you become calmer and more positive and improve your relationships with others.

HOW TO MEDITATE

Find a quiet place where you won't be disturbed and sit in a comfortable position. Sitting is preferable to lying down, which tells your body it is time to sleep. Relax your hands and place them on your thighs, palms up, or in any comfortable position. Close your eyes or focus on a point or object. Gradually become aware of your breath as it

enters and leaves your body. Clear distracting thoughts and focus on each breath until your mind is still and you feel relaxation and tranquility take over. At first, your mind might become more active. Use visualization to still your thoughts. Imagine being in an idyllic and relaxing place. Visualize the scene as you transport your body there with the power of your mind. Some people visualize a higher power and try to connect to this "being." This exercise awakens your spiritual side. You will develop a higher consciousness by focusing on your inner self instead of external noise and worldly activities. Eventually, you may train yourself to meditate and relax while walking, lying down, or doing everyday tasks. With practice, you can make your mind and body relax at will. The religious connotations might put you off, but you don't have to follow any particular religion to meditate. You can do it solely for the health benefits, relaxation, and stress control. It's particularly useful if you prefer natural methods for stress relief over prescription medications.

Meditation techniques depend on your temperament and lifestyle. If you would like a deeper understanding, you can join a class and receive guidance from a teacher. Books also help you reap more mental and physical health benefits. No matter the method, meditation provides a natural way of coping with stress and finding your inner self.

“NO MATTER THE METHOD, MEDITATION PROVIDES A NATURAL WAY OF COPING WITH STRESS AND FINDING YOUR INNER SELF.”

Kruti is now seeing patients of all ages, and is deeply committed to making a difference in their lives.

Bachelor’s Degree in Biology: Birmingham-Southern College

Master’s Degree in Public Health: The University of Alabama at Birmingham

Master’s Degree in Medical Science in Physician Assistant Studies: Barry University, Miami

Certification: National Commission on Certification of Physician Assistants (NCCPA)

Licensure: Florida Board of Medicine

Chris Osborne, Amanda Nelson and Calleigh with Banker Amy Bolt.

FINANCE

“It is critical that kids start to learn the value of money, short-term and long-term saving and budgeting at an early age.”

— Alexa Von Tobel

Should I rent or buy? Many Americans debate this question, and with good reason. You need a place to live and the only two options are buying or renting. However, given the price of homes in some areas of the country, renting may appear to be the most affordable choice. But with that choice comes less space overall, less control over that limited space, and no creation of equity.

At first thought, you may not know what to do, but there are plenty of valid reasons for owning a home instead of renting. Below are several perspectives about why owning is the better choice.

AFFORDABILITY

Some potential homebuyers may be concerned about rising interest rates, considering that they can negatively impact the current or future affordability of a home. Although interest rates are higher, they have been raised minimally and were starting from historic lows, meaning that interest rates are still quite affordable.

What’s more, if you wanted to rent a comparable house,

you would spend a lot more monthly to cover the landlord’s housing payment, their taxes, plus their potential profit.

According to a report from home and real estate website Zillow.com, American renters paid $441 billion collectively in rent in 2014, which is a surge of 4.9 percent from 2013. That is approximately $26 more per month for the average renter. In less affordable rental markets the increase was even greater, partially due to high demand for rental

homes or apartments and also a lack of available supply.

INCREASED FINANCIAL STABILITY

Financially speaking, buying a home can be a complicated endeavor. First, to get the best terms on a mortgage you need to ensure your credit score and report are thriving, have a stable income, be current on all your bills, and even have saved a sizable down payment. What do you get when you consolidate all of those actions? Healthy finances in all aspects of your life. While renting does not exclude you from these positive actions, many people attempt to improve their finances well before starting the home buying process. Therefore, buying a home can have an indirect yet positive effect on the way you handle your money, which will help you both now and in the future.

GENERATING EQUITY

As evidenced by the Zillow study referenced earlier, rents have continued their steady increase in costs. There is another negative financial factor to renting: the lack of equity. Over the years, your mortgage payments will slowly yet steadily peck at the amount you owe on your loan. Eventually, you start to own more of your home, which is known

as equity. You can use this equity merely when calculating your net worth, but should you need it, you could access some of it to fund renovations, help pay for college tuition, or just relax on a much-needed vacation.

MAKE IT YOUR OWN

What color will you paint your bedroom walls? Maybe you will install a hot tub, get a pet, or create an edible front yard? One thing is certain when you own your home: You do not need to obtain permission from a landlord to make nonstructural updates to your property. You can change the inside and outside as you see fit and that is a massive advantage over renting.

LIVING MEMORIES

Many people buy their home with the idea of staying for the long term, raising a family, and enjoying the different phases of life. This offers a sense of stability, commitment, community,

and family, and you can mark these feelings through the physical changes you make in your home. In essence, your home is not just a place to live, but a constant that you can gradually transform into living memories to cherish and celebrate.

BE PREPARED

Buying a home is a large financial commitment that is also a huge emotional impact. Before jumping in, prepare a realistic budget so you know what you can afford comfortably. Don’t push yourself to the limit either. Maintain a buffer to address the unexpected. Make your home a place where you enjoy both personal and financial comfort, and that can be done through buying.

MAKE YOUR HOME A PLACE WHERE YOU ENJOY BOTH PERSONAL AND FINANCIAL COMFORT, AND THAT CAN BE DONE THROUGH BUYING.

FINANCIAL PLANNING SHOULD BE A FAMILY AFFAIR

WRITER: BONNIE CONRAD

Money is an important part of life, but many people are reluctant to discuss it. Recent surveys revealed most people would rather talk about religion, politics, and even death than have an honest talk about their finances.

The results of such reluctance to talk can be dire. In long-term marriages, one partner often takes charge of the family finances and the other spouse may know little about where they stand, how much money they have or how ready they are for retirement. That puts the nonplanning spouse at risk, especially if an untimely accident or illness takes the planner out of the picture.

While it may be uncomfortable, calling a family meeting to discuss finances is vital. If one spouse has taken charge of paying all the bills, that spouse

should provide their partner with basic information, such as where receipts are kept, where old checks are located, and how expenses and payments are prioritized.

Going forward, both spouses should review bank statements, balance the checkbook, and review monthly bills. Two heads are better than one and the spouse who had previously been out of the loop might identify money-saving opportunities the other one missed.

Investment decisions should also be a family affair and involve both spouses. It is easy for one spouse to take charge here too, especially if that spouse is more comfortable with the stock market and mutual funds. Even in such cases, however, it is important to get the other spouse to buy in. Having both spouses

on the same page will make monetary disagreements less likely and help head off future arguments.

Many parents leave their kids out of financial discussions, but that may not be a smart idea. While young children don’t need to know how much money their parents make, teenagers can and should be included in some discussions. At the very least, it will provide some context and help them understand the value of money and the importance of future planning.

Since few schools teach anything about managing finances, it is up to parents to provide those life lessons to their children. Sitting the kids down with you while you and your spouse are paying the bills can be a real eyeopener. Seeing the size of the cable TV and cell phone

bills can give your kids a new appreciation for such luxuries. There is another important benefit of including the kids in your financial discussions. Many teenagers assume their parents will be paying college costs, and many parents plan to do just that. Financial planners, on the other hand, often recommend that parents save for their own retirements first and put college costs on the back burner. Every family needs to decide which strategy is best, and they need to share these thoughts with their soon-to-be collegebound kids.

It is not easy to talk about finances. Whether you are just scraping by or living comfortably on great salaries, talking about money will always be uncomfortable. Overcoming that discomfort can have long-term benefits for the entire family.

THE BIG DEAL ABOUT BUDGETING

WRITER: RACHEL CRUZE

If you could get a raise without earning more income, would you take it? Of course you would!

Many people who budget for the first time feel like they got a raise. That’s because they’re discovering money they didn’t realize they had. They are usually stunned by how much they’re actually spending at restaurants, on movies, or on gym memberships they use once a month. For a lot of people, a budget is the wake-up call they need to fix their money situation.

So how does it work?

Despite what you might have heard, budgeting is really simple, and it’s even easier when you use a good budgeting tool. Simply list your income at the top, and then list all your monthly expenses.

Every dollar should have a name. In other words, every dollar should be categorized to give, save, or spend. When you subtract your expenses from your income, you should have zero.

That’s a zero-based budget. So what’s the big deal about a budget?

A budget is just a plan. And if you want to win with money, you have to plan. You have to sit down before the month begins and make your budget for the upcoming month. As John Maxwell says, “A budget tells your money where to go instead of wondering where it went.”

Sometimes, the budget gets a bad reputation because people think it means you have to be cheap or you can’t have a life. But that’s not the case.

You can have a life while you’re on a budget—you just have to plan for it. That way, you won’t spend $200 at Target before realizing you overdrafted your bank account.

Now, if you’re still in debt, I want you to be extremely serious about the budget. Cut back on your lifestyle, get intense about paying off your debts, and remember this is only temporary.

Once you’re out of debt, you can pull back on the intensity a little bit, but I still want you to continue budgeting, planning, and making sure you’re doing everything you can to build a financial foundation for your future.

So if you’re struggling with money, now’s the time to start budgeting. When you manage your money correctly, you’ll be shocked at how much money you actually have— instead of letting it slip through the cracks every month.

To get you started, I highly recommend EveryDollar—a brandnew app and online-based budgeting tool to help you create a zero-based budget that works for you. Check it out at EveryDollar.com.

*Rachel Cruze is a seasoned communicator and presenter, helping Americans learn the proper ways to handle money and stay out of debt. Her new book Smart Money Smart Kids co-authored with her dad, Dave Ramsey, released April 2014, and debuted at #1 on the New York Times best-sellers list.

YOGA THERAPY YIN

AYURVEDA +

MINDFULNESS

Seasonally balanced group classes

Private person centered yoga therapy

Dining in the Dark

Experience food, drink, and conversation without your sight. The meal will be served in complete darkness and Lake County’s SWAT team will serve you wearing night vision goggles. There is also a silent auction and cash bar. Lake Receptions, 4425 N. Highway 19A, Mount Dora. Cost: $70/person. Information: 352.326.5414.

APRIL 2

APRIL 12

Better Breathers

The first step in lung disease management is learning about lung disease. This nationwide support group, sponsored by the American Lung Association, offers support and resources for those suffering from lung disease. Participants also learn techniques to manage the disease. 1 to 3 p.m. National Training Center, 1935 Don Wickham Drive, Clermont. Cost: Free. Information: 352.241.7109

APRIL 14-MAY 12

407.801.1967

mjvitalityllc@gmail.com // www.mjvitality.com

Prepared Childbirth Class

Prenatal Classes

mjvitalit 1/ Board Certified in Gastroenterology and Internal Medicine.

- HEARTBURN/ACID REFLUX

- DIARRHEA/CONSTIPATION

- IRRITABLE BOWEL SYNDROME

- LIVER DISEASE

- RECTAL BLEEDING

- HEMORRHOIDS

- PEPTIC ULCER DISEASE

- LIVER CIRRHOSIS

- HEPATITIS

352.242.1665

Khadrah,

SPECIALIZING IN THE DIAGNOSIS AND TREATMENT OF DIGESTIVE SYSTEM DISORDERS INCLUDING: • 2040 Oakley Seaver Drive, Clermont FL, 34711 • 2320 North Boulevard, Davenport FL, 33837 • 1584 Citrus Medical Court, Ocoee FL, 34761 5 3 34711 , 338837 347761 Khalid Maqsood, MD, FACP, FACG Rajab Abu

This class focuses on the 28th to 32nd week of pregnancy when mother and partner work on breathing and relaxation techniques. They also tour the Life Center for Women at LRMC. 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Cost: $50. 600 E. Dixie Ave., Leesburg. Information: Karen Lynn at 352.323.5960.

APRIL 9

Amazing Race for Charity

Two-person teams enjoy a 5- to 6-mile race through Eustis, stopping at 20+ challenge stations on the way to the finish at Ferran Park for a festival, food, awards, and music. This race attracts serious runners, as well as amateurs. 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Ferran Park, 50 Ferran Park Drive, Eustis. Cost: $125 per team. Information: 352.242.8111

Florida Hospital Waterman’s five-week prenatal classes will cover topics such as car seat safety, labor and delivery, post-delivery care, and breastfeeding. 6 to 8 p.m. Mattison Conference Center, 1000 Waterman Way, Tavares. Information: 352.253.3367.

APRIL 16

Bras for the Cause and Boxers Too!

This is a fabulous runway show and auction with bras and boxers designed by community members for the Greater Clermont Cancer Foundation. There will be a silent auction with wine, beer, and hors d’oeuvres served. Reserve your tickets today, as this event always sells out. Clermont Arts and Recreation Center, 3700 S. U.S. Hwy. 27, Clermont. Cost: $40. Information: 407.538.3461.

APRIL 16

Earth Day Concert

Outdoor concerts will be held to benefit Mount Dora’s numerous parks. Cost: $10 to $20. 5 to 10 p.m. Elizabeth Evans Park, N. Donnelly St., Mount Dora. Information: Andrew Burr at 352.988.4022.

APRIL 17

Bake Sale for Charity

Each month, AMVETS Post 2006 conducts a charity bake sale to benefit a different local charity. 1 to 7 p.m. AMVETS Post 2006, 500 N. Canal St., Leesburg. Information: 352.323.8750.

APRIL 20

Multiple Sclerosis Support Group

Share stories with others facing challenges with this disease of the central nervous system. 10 a.m. to noon. National Training Center, 1935 Don Wickham Drive, Clermont. Cost: Free. Information: 352.242.2350

APRIL 21

Breastfeeding Class

This class teaches the basics of breastfeeding, such as getting started in the hospital, positioning, and breastfeeding management. 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Cost: $15. Leesburg Regional Medical Center, 600 E. Dixie Ave. Information: Karen Lynn at 352.323.5960 or KLynn@ CFHAlliance.org.

APRIL 24

Lake Minneola Half Marathon and 5K

The half marathon is a flat and fast run around Lake Minneola; 5K is out and back on the South Lake Trail. Waterfront Park, 330 Third St., Clermont. Check sommersports.com for cost. Information: 352.394.1320.

MAY 6

Star Search Gala

Help Lake County residents who are suffering from addiction. This event features a silent auction, as well as sensational food, drink, dancing, and music. 6 p.m. Lake Receptions, 4425 N. Hwy. 19 A Mount Dora. Information: 352.308.8899.

Maiello, MD Board Certified

We are a family-owned furniture store based in Leesburg, FL with two locations. Since 1999, Family Furniture has served customers in Leesburg, The Villages, Apopka, Eustis, Tavares, Ocala, Lady Lake, Wildwood, Bushnell, Inverness, and Clermont with quality furniture at guaranteed low prices. Professional in-home design consultation available.

THE JOY OF WRITING

BY JAMES COMBS

Throughout the years, people have asked me, “What kind of things do you typically write about as a journalist?”

I always want to say, “Pick up one of our dang magazines and find out for yourself!”

I never say that, though. It’s simply not polite and may keep them from ever reading an issue of Healthy Living and Style.

The better question would be, “What haven’t you done as a journalist?”

Dating back to journalism school at the University of Central Florida, it seems like I’ve done a little bit of everything. That includes, but is certainly not limited to, covering Winter Park city council meetings, attending groundbreaking ceremonies, traveling with a group of World War II veterans to Washington, D.C., and even interviewing a death-row inmate. I’ve done all types of writing, from hard news and features to press releases and paid advertorials.

But, after 16 years on the job, this is my first attempt at writing a column. It’s highly unlikely I’ll win a Pulitzer for it, but if it earns

me bite-sized chocolates or a trip to El Ranchito from fellow writers Shemir Wiles and Leigh Neely, then I know I’ve done an admirable job.

I figured my inaugural column would be a wonderful way to let people know about some of the amazing people, places, and events I have written about throughout the years. Without further ado, here’s my top list (in no particular order):

1. Walking alongside an uncaged tiger and its trainer at the now defunct Amazing Exotics. To be next to a man-eating animal with no protection whatsoever is fascinating, but I prayed I wouldn’t become its prey.

2. Paintballing with coworkers somewhere near the Ocala National Forest. Although I’m a recreational shooter, I realized paintball requires as much strategy as it does marksmanship. I left with numerous welts on my arm, stomach, and leg. Bottom line: It takes some balls to compete in this sport.

3. Eating a full-course meal in pitch-black darkness at New Vision for Independence’s Dining in the Dark fundraiser. This event is

truly out of sight. To be honest, I bypassed the available utensils and ate every bite of chicken, green beans, and mashed potatoes with my hands while leaning over my plate. I was afraid everything would fall off a fork and onto my shirt. But it was certainly an eyeopening look into the world of blindness.

4. Interviewing Jason Wheeler and seeing where death-row inmates are housed at Union Correctional Institution. It was surprisingly quiet; a correctional officer said death-row inmates are well behaved because their cases are being appealed. I formerly worked inside a jail, but seeing a state prison and in particular, death row—is something I’ve always been dying to do.

5. Highlighting the successful weight-loss efforts of two Lake County residents. Pound for pound, these were two of my favorite assignments. We detailed the triumphs and struggles of both participants every step of the way as they trans-

formed from morbidly obese individuals into slim healtha-holics.

Okay, anyone who knows me understands that I love using puns to make people laugh. But now that we’ve delved into my world as a writer, I am leaving future columns open to suggestions from you, our faithful readers. If you know of a person, place, or event worth talking about that falls under the realm of healthy living, I’d love to hear about it. Please email me at james@ akersmediagroup.com.

Not bad for a first column, eh? Shemir and Leigh, pass the Twix and don’t forget the green salsa for my taquitos.

the Twix and don’t green salsa my taquit i o os.

Nine months anticipating

112 names considered

Finally holding your new baby is

Amazing.

Babies are irresistible. That’s why we’ve created Lake County’s premier center for welcoming new bundles of joy — Florida Hospital Waterman Center for Women and Children, part of Florida Hospital for Women. Newly remodeled rooms, special amenities and personalized courses and education, all mean you and your baby will receive the best in maternity care. Because your new addition is one of the many reasons LIFE is AMAZING.

Learn more about the Center for Women and Children at LakeCountyBaby.com