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fellowship trained general surgeon with formal training and specialization in minimally invasive and robotic surgery.
Dr. Baig has the expertise to customize surgical care for patients according to their individual needs.
He uses basic principles of surgery and incorporates them with advanced laparoscopic and robotic surgery techniques to deliver outstanding results. He prefers the most advanced technique with the least invasive option possible.
Dr. Will Barsoum joined the team at Cardiovascular Associates in January 2017. To say he is thrilled about this exciting opportunity would be an understatement.
“The practice has developed an excellent reputation because the doctors are ethical, knowledgeable, and caring,” he said. “I share their vision of delivering quality cardiovascular care to the wonderful residents of Lake County.”
Dr. Barsoum attended medical school at St. George’s University School of Medicine in Grenada and completed a residency and two fellowships at Seton Hall University in New Jersey. He brings a unique skill set to Cardiovascular Associates and is experienced in treating peripheral vascular disease and pulmonary embolism.
“For me, it’s a major milestone whenever I can improve a patient’s quality of life and increase their longevity.”
He previously practiced in Lake County for more than two years before moving to Orlando.
“I’m happy to be returning to the area. This is where I want to raise my family. We have the best of both worlds. There is plenty of nature, but you don’t have to look far for shopping and entertainment.”
Are stem cells a miracle? Not exactly. However, stem cells are a highly effective means of repairing damaged tissue. Stem cell therapy is a non-surgical procedure that gives the body the tools it needs to heal itself naturally. Stem cells repair damaged tissue and regenerate bone, ligaments, tendons, cartilage and muscle. Pain lessens and range of motion increases after a simple injection—without risk of infection.
Schedule a consult today to see if you are eligible for this cutting edge therapy.
August 2017
22 // SCHOOL SPIRIT
Diane Kornegay hit the ground running since assuming the position of superintendent of Lake County Schools seven months ago. She shares her accomplishments so far, as well as her vision for the school district.
A RECIPE TO HEALTH
44 Whip up a delicious batch of Paleo risotto.
HARE, HARE
46 Bunny slippers can help with summer weight loss.
GENETICALLY SPEAKING
48 Your style of genes does not determine your health.
28 //
It’s no secret that we’re living in an increasingly technologically advanced world. Three local institutions—Beacon College, Lake Technical College, and Lake-Sumter State College— have special courses and degree programs to help students succeed in today’s tech-based workforce.
BOOSTING BRAINPOWER
52 It can be a good thing to have a lot on your mind.
BILLINGUALISM ES BUENO
54 Discover the health benefits of learning a second language.
AVOID HITTING ROCK BOTTOM
58 Using principles of rockclimbing techniques to expand your comfort zone.
34 //
School begins this month, and parents have an important assignment. Numerous studies prove that a healthy lunch at school bolsters students’ academic success. Your job is making sure you are nourishing your child’s noggin with these helpful tips.
THE SCHOOL OF HARD KNOCKS
60 How to tell when your child is being bullied at school.
GIVE IT THE OLD COLLEGE TRY
64 Sound financial tips for recent graduates.
A LESSON IN SCHOOL CLOTHES SHOPPING
66 How to dress cool without breaking the bank.
To ensure our readers have clarity of content, Healthy Living is updating two statements in the article, “Women & Health.”
The paragraph that begins, “Food impacts…” now reads “Nutrition is vital,” Joanne says. “The condition of the gut (not food) is responsible for nutrient absorption, those vitamins and minerals that keep your body going. We do a stool test to see what you’re not absorbing. Malabsorption can be a big issue.”
The paragraph that begins, “Estrogen is…” Hormones work in the body like a symphony. None are more important than the other. The one hormone that most women are unaware of that they desperately need is Testosterone. This is where the hormone pellet therapy becomes a convenient delivery system to help both men and women achieve optimal Testosterone levels. When hormones are optimized, we are then able to alleviate symptoms and improve the quality of life of our patients.
To read the corrected article in its entirety, please go to lakehealthyliving.com for the digital edition.
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There is always so much excitement that comes at the end of a school year. When summer comes, it’s time to relax, take a vacation, and just slow down for a while. But not for me, especially being the mother of three college students and a toddler (said no one…ever.) For me, summer means madness.
During the summer break, my home can be a complete chaotic, beautiful disaster. My college kids are coming and going, each with different plans day-to-day, and then those plans change on a whim. I never know who will be home for dinner, who is going out, and what I can cook for dinner. I must take into consideration special dietary needs for my eldest daughter, so no corn or gluten on the nights she is home. They tell me they will not be home for dinner, so I make a small meal, and then guess what, “Mom…we are going to be home for dinner now!” With an hour’s notice, I hurry and cook something else for them to eat. Or, we pack the meal away for the next day and order out. Sounds exhausting, doesn’t it? I have not even begun to tell you about my toddler, Conner.
Little Conner needs a paragraph all to himself. During the school year, Conner goes to pre-k three days a week for four hours a day. Doesn’t seem like much, but for me, it is valuable, peaceful time at home. I can work from home, uninterrupted, and get months of editorial planning done in just a few hours. When Conner is not in school, call the guards, because there is a maniac on the loose. He wakes up at 6am, doesn’t take naps, and wants to get into every drawer in the house—especially ones he is not supposed to be in—and is still raring to go until about 9pm when I finally insist that he go to sleep. I swear he is going to grow up believing his full name is “No, Conner.”
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During the school year, all my kids seem to be more focused and task oriented, even little Conner. There are set routines, I know where my older kids are, and I know which child will be home for dinner. No surprises. So, for me, the school year comes with predictability and stability.
While I do love my family and all the craziness that comes with summer break, I thoroughly enjoy when they go back to school, because, for me, it’s back to reality.
Until next month, Kendra Akers
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We Care of Lake County announced a new project, We Care We Share, which is designed to accept donated used medical equipment and share it with those in need. For more information about We Care We Share or to drop off equipment, contact Carol Millwater at director@wecarelakecounty.org or call 352.742.0021.
The Villages Regional Hospital cation by The Joint Commission as a primary stroke center, which means the hospital provides the next generation of stroke care and maintains high standards of The Joint Commission.
“I am extremely pleased with the excellent outcome of this survey,” says Don Henderson, president and chief executive cer of Central Florida Health, the parent company of The Villages Regional Hospital. “This impressive result is due to the hard work and dedication of the many team members that commit to maintain these important standards.”
Receiving medical attention as early as possible following a rst three hours—can mean the difference not only between life and death, but also between complete recovery and lifetime disability.
The emergency department at Leesburg Regional Medical Center is doubling its size with a $27 million expansion. There will be a new 48,000 square-foot, two-story facility on the east side of the hospital. This means 24 new beds, different entrances for patients and ambulances, and secure areas away from the general public to provide treatment for criminal- and drug-related admissions.
“This is another great day for health care,” says Mack Andrews, chairman of the LRMC Foundation board. “With the generous support of our community, we’ll be able to provide quality care for everyone from infancy through the
The Villages Regional Hospital received the 2017 Mission: Lifeline Silver Receiving Center Quality Achievement Award from the American Heart Association (AHA). The award is given for quality improvement measures and timely care for patients experiencing a heart attack. The goal of the AHA is to reduce system barriers to prompt treatment for heart attacks beginning with the 9-1-1 call and continuing through hospital treatment. The Silver Receiving Center award means the hospital achieved an 85 percent or greater overall composite score with no measure below 75 percent for consecutive 12-month intervals.
The hospitals of Central Florida Health, Leesburg Regional Medical Center, and The Villages Regional Hospital, are offering patients a new way to determine the kind of emergency care they need—the LRMC Fast Care and TVRH Fast Care apps. Available for download on iPhone, iPad, and Android phones, these apps are free and help you go through
a series of quick questions to determine whether you need to go to the emergency room, one of their urgent care facilities, or if you should call an ambulance. The app also provides the current ER wait time. Just search “LRMC Fast Care” or “TVRH Fast Care” in Google Play or the Apple App Store.
TRIVIA TIME:
Q: What year was the Florida Department of Health (DOH) established? Please make an educated guess before looking at the answer below.
Leesburg Regional Medical Center opened its new 21-bed Senior Behavioral Health Center in June. The center provides acute and long-term care for patients who are emotionally disturbed, including patients admitted for psychiatric problems. The unit will provide psychological services, social workers, and psychiatric nurses, along with occupational and recreational therapy.
Dr. Kristi Burns is a staunch advocate for recess in schools.
WRITER: JAMES COMBS PHOTO: FRED LOPEZThanks to excessive time spent in the classroom, many of Lake County’s elementary school students have lost their marbles.
They’ve also lost their hopscotch, jacks, and duck-duck-goose.
That’s because federal education laws such as No Child Left Behind and Common Core—which emphasize test scores—prompted school administrators to scale back or eliminate recess.
The dwindling role recess plays in local schools surprised Dr. Kristi Burns, who moved from California to Eustis in 2013. Much to her dismay, recess was eliminated in 2014 at the Lake County school where her son, Xander, was a third-grade student.
“In California, he had three recesses every day,” says Dr. Burns, a 1995 graduate of Eustis High School who earned a doctorate in biochemistry from Georgia Institute of Technology. “Now, he was attending a school that did not even have recess for kindergarten students.”
Dr. Burns turned her frustration into activism. It started with picketing outside local elementary schools, then spearheading a social media networking group called Lake County Healthy Schools. She also made recess a focal point of her campaign when she successfully ran for the Lake County School Board District 2 seat in 2016.
Now, as part of a statewide group called Recess for All Florida Students,
Dr. Burns and other “recess moms,” as they are affectionately called, have lobbied Tallahassee lawmakers to pass a mandatory requirement that elementary schoolchildren receive 20 minutes of recess each day. Florida Gov. Rick Scott signed the bill, HB 7069, in June.
The passage of the bill is welcome news to Dr. Burns and hordes of other parents who feel maximizing the amount of classroom time for test preparation can be detrimental.
“It can lead to cognitive interference,” she says. “After a while their brains are overloaded, and they need a break to unwind and de-stress. Then they will be able to learn again. More is not effective.”
She also feels that, contrary to popular belief, education does not end once recess begins. After all, some of life’s most valuable lessons can be learned during recess— sharing, losing gracefully, teamwork, and getting along with others.
Her claims are backed by research conducted by organizations such as the American Academy of Pediatrics and the American Association for the Child’s Right to Play, which tout the cognitive, social, and physical benefits of recess.
“Lots of research supports recess,” she says. “I’ve never seen any research that is against recess. It is great for motor development, character building, and intellectual stimulation.”
WRITER: FRED HILTON
The tell-tale signs often are obvious: Your first dates rarely turn into second dates. When you join the crowd around the cooler at work, you take a sip of water and discover there’s no longer anybody there but you and your paper cup. You figure you have a problem with bad breath, but how can you be sure? You probably think you can easily check your own breath by cupping your hand, blowing into it, and taking a whiff. Sorry, but that won’t work.
“It is very difficult for people to smell their own breath because a person becomes acclimated to their own breath, or, in other words, they get used to it so they don’t notice it anymore,” according to the website BreathMD. “Our brains are designed wisely and
have us become acclimated to smells so we can notice new smells easier.”
Probably the best way to check your breath is to ask someone else—maybe your spouse, significant other, or a good friend. If you don’t want to do that, there are several methods of selftesting. Among them are:
• Wipe the top surface of your tongue with a piece of cotton gauze and smell it. If you notice a yellowish stain on the cotton, it’s likely that you have an elevated sulfide production level.
• Lick the back of your hand. Let the saliva dry for five or 10 seconds and then smell your hand. If there is an odor, it may be because the sulfur salts from your tongue have been transferred to your hand after the liquid evaporated.
• Run a piece of dental floss between your back teeth, where food is most likely to be caught. Smell the floss. It can indicate the odors others detect.
• Stand in front of the mirror and stick your tongue out. If you notice that the back of your tongue is whitish, it may be a sign you have bad breath. You also can use a spoon to scrape some of the gunk off the back of your tongue. Put the scrapings in a baggie and let it sit under a lamp for 10 or 15 minutes. Then open the bag and take a whiff.
If you’re really obsessed, there are two scientific devices—the gas chromatograph and the halimeter— that are used for breath-testing. If you don’t want to fool with any of these tests, just stay downwind from everyone else.
Sources “Test Your Own Breath,” by Dr. Harold Katz, TheraBreath, therabreath.com http://www.therabreath.com/breath-test.html, “How to Tell if You Have Bad Breath. Self-testing for Halitosis,” Animated-Teeth.com, https://www.animated-teeth.com/ bad_breath/t1_halitosis.htm , “How to Smell Your Own Breath,” BreathMD, breathmd.com, http://www.breathmd.com/how-to-smell-your-own-breath.php, “How to Tell if You Have Bad Breath,” by Amy Freeman, Colgate Oral Care Center, colgate. com, http://www.colgate.com/en/us/oc/oral-health/conditions/bad-breath/article/how-to-tell-if-you-have-bad-breath-0615, “10 Ways to Know You Have Bad Breath,” by Darren Martin, davisanddingle.com , http://www.davisanddingle.com/blog/ bid/146415/10-ways-to-know-you-have-bad-breath
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Lake County Schools Superintendent Diane Kornegay is seven months into her new job, after hitting the ground running with a 100-day work plan of researching needs of the district, looking at data, asking questions, and listening and learning from the people she meets.
She relishes her new role.
“This is a wonderful community,” she says of overseeing Florida’s 19th largest school district, which is the county’s largest employer. “Everybody wants to come together on behalf of kids and schools. It has been better than I hoped for, a welcoming community that truly loves kids and wants to do the right things for the schools and kids. People are asking, ‘What is it that we can do to help?’ And that is so refreshing.”
Before presenting her 100-day findings to the Lake County School Board in late July, she told Healthy Living her objective was to learn more about the community and to build relationships.
“This provides a foundation for leadership and the ability to get things done,” she says. “I am pleased we have met those objectives. I
conducted 13 teacher focus groups across the district and asked: ‘What do we want to continue, stop, and recommend for next steps?’ From the priority list, we’ve been able to address several issues regarding policies and programs at the recommendation of teachers.”
Among the approved changes for the 2017-18 school year will be three geographic regions overseen by three executive regional directors. Robert Felter, Renee Dudley, and Wayne Cockcroft will provide leadership with the targeted support system of a secretary, data and intervention specialist, English language learner (ELL) specialist, curriculum program specialist, exceptional student education (ESE) specialist, social worker, and a federal programs specialist in each region.
The superintendent says more plans are in the works to develop priorities and directions to benefit students, and to unify the schools and district as one team.
“I always say, ‘I do things with people and not to people,’ so that is why it is important that I be out in the community and continue the
The new superintendent overseeing 5,500 employees and 43,000 students sees her job as being a ‘coach.’
Robert Feltner will lead Region 1, which includes: Eustis Elementary, Eustis Heights Elementary, Eustis High, Eustis Middle, Lake County Virtual, Mount Dora High, Mount Dora Middle, Seminole Springs Elementary, Sorrento Elementary, Triangle Elementary, Umatilla Elementary, Umatilla Middle, and conversion charters of Round Lake Elementary and Spring Creel Charter.
Renee Dudley oversees Region 2 schools: Astatula Elementary, Beverly Shores Elementary, Carver Middle, Fruitland Park Elementary, Leesburg Elementary, Oak Park Middle, Rimes Early Learning and Literacy Center, Tavares Elementary, Tavares High, Tavares Middle, The Villages Elementary of Lady Lake, and Treadway Elementary.
Wayne Cockcroft heads up Region 3: Cecil Gray Middle, Clermont Middle, Cypress Ridge Elementary, East Ridge High, East Ridge Middle, Grassy Lake Elementary, Groveland Elementary, Lake Hills, Lake Minneola High, Lost Lake Elementary, Pine Ridge Elementary, Sawgrass Bay Elementary, South Lake High, Windy Hill Mille, and conversion charters of Mascotte Elementary and Minneola Elementary.
conversation,” Diane says. “One of my fondest memories was the evening I was in Leesburg for the first time. I was introduced to a few community members, and we ended up pulling up some tables and chairs outside and people were calling their friends on the cell phone saying, ‘Hey, the superintendent is here.’ I just fell in love with the heart of the community.”
The superintendent also had internal conversations with district staff members and teachers on the frontlines—listening to them, answering questions, and getting feedback, says Sherri Owens, the district’s communications officer.
“The superintendent has set the bar and she has set the bar high. She believes we can get there,” Sherri says, adding her boss has an infectious attitude. “Her belief is so strong that the rest of us are starting to believe it, too. Her belief is we can do this and we can be better than we are, and we don’t have to settle. We can do better, and we are believing it, too—the teachers, the support staff, all of us—and we are all here for that one purpose, which is the success of the students.”
Growing up as the middle of five children (three sisters and one brother), Diane recalls being competitive among her siblings. One of her favorite activities was watching college and pro football games with her late father.
“He taught me the love for the game, and I was really motivated most by the coaching aspects of the game,” she says. “I always found it intriguing that the coaches had this strategic plan; some days it would work and some days it didn’t work. That love of coaching and inspiring others is what really led me to education.”
She received her bachelor’s degree in elementary education and a master’s degree in administration and supervision, both from the University of North Florida. She began her education career in 1987 as a second-grade teacher in Duval County, helping to open a new inner-city school.
“I found that truly my passion was the students with the greatest needs,” she says, proudly pointing to a class photo of her first group of students. “They were quite a challenge—high poverty, not a lot of parent involvement—so it was a challenging group of kids, and I fell in love with the school, the kids, and I liked being able to go in and execute a plan. Some days it worked and some days it didn’t, so you go back to the drawing board and look at what can you do differently.”
Diane discovered she enjoyed coaching other teachers as well.
“And that kind of led to the path I’m on today in being able to coach and support and help others,” she says.
She served as principal at three elementary schools, assistant superintendent, and most recently as deputy superintendent in Clay County. As the new superintendent in Lake, Diane strives to take the schools to a new level of academic excellence.
In looking at ways to help students who need extended academic time, Diane says there have been conversations about longer school days for students who need more instruction.
“The research is clear: more instructional time tailored to the individual needs of the student, coupled with hands-on activities and programs such as arts and sports, improve academic achievement. However, we haven’t set any goals in this area,”
Diane says. “We’ve just had some conversations, so I want to put that into perspective.”
She added that longer school days will not happen soon, and if it ever does, it would be developed as a pilot program at one or two schools. “It won’t impact all students, and it won’t happen without substantial increases in funding,” she says.
Aug. 10 – First day of classes
Sept. 4 – Labor Day (student holiday)
Oct. 13 – End of first grading period
Oct. 16 – Non-student day (teacher workday)
Oct. 17 – Class resumes; 2nd grading period begins
Nov. 20-24 – Thanksgiving holiday
Dec. 20 – End of second grading period
Dec. 21-31—Winter break
Jan. 1-3 – Winter break
Jan. 4 – Classes resume; 3rd grading period begins
Jan. 15 – MLK Jr. birthday (student holiday)
Feb. 15 – Presidents’ Day (student holiday)
Mar. 15 – End of third grading period
Mar. 16 – Non-student day (teacher workday)
Mar. 19-23 – Spring break
Mar. 26 – Classes resume; 4th grading period begins
March 30 – Non-student day
May 24 – Last day of classes
What are you most excited about with your job here?
The potential and talent is here to take us to the next level. I am excited about leading that effort and excited about the people I get to do it with.
What inspired you to apply for the position of superintendent?
It’s my dream job and I feel I can make exciting things happen here in Lake County. My life’s work has pointed me toward this destination.
What did your former district in Clay County do right to earn an “A” grade?
We had strong school-based leadership and collaborative professional development for teachers, along with the Academies of Clay that increased CTE (career and technical education) academies from 19 to 30 in three years.
As the new superintendent, what are some of your visions and goals for Lake County Schools?
I envision a united system where all stakeholders are committed to improving our schools. I see Lake as a destination school district. People will want to send their children here. As school choice grows, I want parents to choose Lake County Public Schools.
Ultimately, I want to be a highperforming school district. This means 90 percent of the schools are rated an A or B, 90 percent graduation rates, few to no grade-3 retentions, and every child graduating ready for college and/or the workforce with advanced credits and/ or industry certifications.
What are areas of concern that need to be addressed?
Our lowest-performing students are not making annual learning gains. We must create strategies and curriculum that center on the individual needs of each child. At the other end of the spectrum, higher-performing students need greater opportunities to accelerate learning. Teachers need support to ensure classroom structures allow for more small-group, one-on-one instruction and less whole-group instruction aimed at meeting the needs of students in the middle. We must provide time for students to read,
write, think, and talk to ensure students learn both content and thinking skills.
What are the best ways to improve graduation rates?
Expanding CTE programs and related industry certifications while growing business partnerships for student internships and business advisory boards, and expanding acceleration options for all students through increased post-secondary partnerships and alternative pathways for advanced coursework leading to college credit.
What are some of the biggest challenges?
Funding is one of the biggest challenges facing all Florida school districts, particularly capital outlay funds to help growing school districts such as Lake build new schools and renovate and repair existing facilities.
What are your views on the national level regarding education under the leadership of Education Secretary Betsy DeVos?
We will have to wait and see about that. How do you feel it’s best to address bullying?
This is a school, community, and family issue. We must focus on building a school culture and climate where students learn to value difference and communicate with tolerance and understanding. We will work to ensure that students feel safe when reporting instances of bullying and proactively respond to any reports or signs of bullying, consistently and appropriately. It’s also important to engage the school and community in bullying prevention activities and policies and establish a student advisory group to get valuable feedback from students.
Any advice or suggestions to parents, teachers, students?
We must have a unified approach to improving our schools. Let’s continue to focus on innovative solutions to improving schools. Let’s continue to communicate. Look for a district app coming soon that will help provide timely updates to parents specific to their child’s school as well as the district.
Technology continues to develop at a rapid pace, and higher education institutions in Lake and Sumter counties aim to prepare students.
Beacon College, Lake Technical College, and Lake-Sumter State College have designed courses and degree programs to match today’s technologicalfocused workforce.
Game design and animation courses are popular at Beacon College, the first accredited institution of higher learning to award bachelor’s degrees to students with learning disabilities, so the school created a game design minor under the computer information systems major.
“Through the game design course, students not only learn about the gaming industry, they are also exposed to business, marketing, programming, digital media, and various technologies,” says Dr. James E. Fleming, chair of business and technology at Beacon.
Armon Colzie, a 2017 Beacon graduate, believes Beacon was right on target to offer the gaming course. “Students love to game, and gaming is the industry’s trend now,” he says.
Applied cybersecurity, automotive service technology, practical nursing, medical assisting, and computer systems and information technology are among 28 different courses offered at Lake Tech’s main campus in Eustis, with additional locations Clermont and the Institute of Public Safety in Tavares.
“You can come here and get a career in a year,” says Dr. Diane Culpepper, executive director of Lake Tech.
“It’s quick training; it’s current and relevant to the jobs and industries in our communities because we only prepare people for careers to get hired in Lake County and our region.”
Welding, one of the popular courses in high demand, has a waiting list. The college says local employers pay starting salaries up to $80,000 for those who learn advanced welding techniques.
“I am excited about the enthusiasm the community has for Lake Tech graduates and excited about our renewed partnership with LakeSumter State College,” the executive director says.
“We are doing many things together, and I think that is great for our community and our students.”
One partnership between the two colleges is a technology management
We want to make sure when students leave our program they have a better opportunity, more than just an entry-level EMT or an entry-level paramedic.
degree for students who graduate from a Lake Tech program and then go to Lake-Sumter to learn management skills for career advancement.
Layne Hendrickson, the emergency medical services instructor for the EMT and paramedics programs at Lake Tech, demonstrated Apollo, a high-fidelity simulation mannequin that helps students learn basic and advanced life-support measures. Students can assess Apollo’s breathing and blood pressure, hear heart tones, and palpable pulses, and Apollo responds to questions
“This is a great assessment tool,” Layne says. “We want to make sure when students leave our program they have a better opportunity, more than just an entry-level EMT or an entry-level paramedic. We want to give them opportunities so they are ready and there is not a big learning curve.”
Lake Tech notes local industry information on starting salaries for EMTs is up to $32,000, while paramedics can make up to $50,000.
Mark McKinney instructs the auto service technician program, which is in demand by local employers with starting salaries up to $45,000.
“We get seven, eight, 10 calls a week,” he says. “We don’t have enough students to keep up with demand. This is a very difficult field because it involves a lot of critical thinking. If something breaks down, the technician has to think to fix it right away. We are electrical guys, plumbers, chemists, and we get into the anatomy of the automobile.”
Students learn the latest diagnostic and repair skills to troubleshoot and repair complex automotive systems, which can be done via remote programming.
“Someone could be sitting in California and talk to a car right here,” he says. “They can talk and repair the car to a certain extent if it’s computer related.”
Spy glasses, equipped with miniature cameras, are used in class, too.
“I cannot always get in the space where students are, for instance, if they are underneath the wheel well of a car, so [spy glasses] come in handy to record what they are doing,” Mark says. “They complete the job, we hook it up and see what they did, give pointers on what is wrong or what tools they should use.”
The automotive class has a car and other pieces of equipment set up to a QR code, similar to a barcode, which students can digitally scan.
“If we train them on how to use this machine, a week from now they may forget some. The video lessons are linked on YouTube, so the videos help them recall how to use it,” Mark says. “We are self-paced with students at different levels…We like to say it is not what you know, but it’s knowing where to go to find the right information.”
Digital forensics, health information technology, computer information technology, information technology analysis, STEM (science, technology, engineering or math) transfer program, electrical distribution technology, and engineering technology, with a specialization in relay substation technology, are among the tech-related courses available at Lake-Sumter State College.
“LSSC’s electrical distribution technology program is one of only two degree programs in the country preparing students for in-demand and high-paying jobs with electric utilities,” says Kevin Yurasek, director of marketing and college relations.
The college recently invited students from local high schools to the Sumter County campus to see a live linesafety demonstration from Duke Energy employees to learn career opportunities.
The energy industry is one of the fastest-growing fields to offer jobs and competitive wages across the United States and the world. Starting salaries are in the $40,000 range.
“Lake-Sumter is training our future workforce,” says Bob Seigworth, director/program manager of energy technology programs at LSSC.
Dr. Stanley Sidor, LSSC president, praised line workers as the hardworking men and women who install and maintain power lines, and the ones who go out in the middle of a storm to restore power.
“Our placement rate with students is very impressive. If you can make it through the program, I would say you have a 90 percent chance of getting a job because there is a shortage in the industry,” Dr. Sidor says.
Students benefit from the college’s “strong partnership” with local energy employers.
“They help us enhance our curriculum by helping us design a program that fits their needs,” says Dr. Sidor, who publicly recognized Duke, SECO, the city of Leesburg, and Sumter County Economic Development as viable partners for the college.
Other technology-related fields in demand include health information technicians. They assemble patients’ medical history, symptoms, examination results, diagnostic tests, treatment methods, and all other health-care provider services.
“The job outlook is 15 percent growth in job openings between now and 2024 in Lake and Sumter counties for health information professionals,” says Brandy Ziesemer,
program manager at LSSC. “Most years, the placement rate of our graduates is 100 percent.”
She says those who become credentialed as registered health information technicians or certified coding specialists could make $20 per hour.
Computer information technology is a popular degree that allows LSSC students to expand their knowledge of software, hardware, networking, and programming.
“We teach networking, security, digital forensics, database administration, project management,” says Betti McTurk, program manager, who notes students range from high school graduates to adults seeking promotions or career changes.
“I have an 81-year-old engineer in my class; he is one of my top students,” Betti says. “One of our students works with a well-known company. I just received an email that his boss is looking for additional graduates. It shows the success of our curriculum.”
We teach networking, security, digital forensics, database administration, project management.—BETTI MCTURK
Florida Hospital Waterman announces plans to add 111,000 square feet of patient- care space to its hospital in Tavares.
PAID PROMOTIONAL FEATURELake County continues to grow and Florida Hospital Waterman is expanding to meet the needs of the community. The hospital recently announced that it will more than double the size of the Emergency Department and build a 4-story tower for women’s services, pediatrics, and space for future growth.
“We have experienced substantial growth in our Emergency Department over the past several years,” said Abel Biri, Chief Executive Officer, Florida Hospital Waterman.
“As our community continues to grow, and more Lake County residents choose us for their care, we must expand to meet that demand. The expansion will help ensure we are well-positioned to provide the efficient, quality and compassionate care our community expects and deserves.”
The decision to make these changes were the result of calculating the increase in patients in 2016. The Emergency Department treated more than 65,000 patients even though it was intended to accommodate 50,000 annually with only 35 beds. The new expansion will include a total of 58 beds in the Emergency Department
and a 24-bed women and children’s unit on the second floor of the tower. The structure will also be prepared to support an additional six floors in the future.
“The expansion and renovation of the Emergency Department and new patient tower mark the single largest investment in a Lake County healthcare facility since Florida Hospital Waterman’s Tavares campus was completed in 2003,” said David Ottati, President and Chief Executive Officer, Adventist Health System Central Florida Division North Region. “This is a substantial investment in our community and helps further our mission of providing whole-person, faith-based care.”
Patients coming into the Emergency Department are often facing their greatest time of need, said Floriano Putigna, DO, Emergency Department Medical Director. “They didn’t plan for this, so we must be prepared. More than 80 percent of the hospital’s patients originate in the Emergency Department, and Florida Hospital Waterman has placed a significant amount of emphasis on this area for a good reason.”
A state-of-the-art women and children’s center will occupy
the second floor of the new patient tower. This area will include 24 beds for women’s services, including labor and delivery, post-partum care, and inpatient pediatrics. The current Center for Women and Children will become a medical-surgical unit.
“The new unit serves as a symbol of our dedication to provide expert care to our entire community,” said Lynn Kirman, Vice President and Chief Nursing Officer, Florida Hospital Waterman.
“Our partnership with Florida Hospital for Women and Florida Hospital for Children in Orlando means Lake County residents have access to some of the region’s most advanced and specialized care right here at home. We worked closely with area physicians and patients to design the new space to ensure it’s a welcoming and healing environment.”
In order to complete this project, the Florida Hospital Waterman Foundation has pledged to raise $5 million from community donations. The full cost of the project is more than $70 million.
“We are proud to invite our community to join us on this journey as we embark on a multi-faceted campaign
More than 80 percent of the hospital’s patients originate in the Emergency Department, and Florida Hospital Waterman has placed a significant amount of emphasis on this area for a good reason.
to position Florida Hospital Waterman to meet the growing and future healthcare needs of Lake County,” said April Kauffman, President, Florida Hospital Waterman Foundation. “A community investment of $5 million from philanthropy will empower the hospital to breathe life into this project. The community has answered the calling to care in the past, and we know there are many among us who will boldly answer the call to partner again.”
FHWaterman.com
The Florida Hospital Waterman Foundation invites the community to join in Building a HealthiER Lake County! Expansion will ensure a shared future of healthcare excellence for every person who chooses Florida Hospital Waterman Emergency Services in their greatest time of need.
The ambitious goal will require significant investment from community partners who also believe in the transformational vision. A community investment of $5 million from philanthropy will support Florida Hospital Waterman in this crucial project which will impact every member of the community at some point.
This is a pivotal year in Florida Hospital Waterman’s
history and evolution, and now is the time to consider partnering with Florida Hospital Waterman Foundation to support the hospital Lake County residents trust for their care. For more information about the project and how you can get involved, or to donate online now, please visit www.BuildingAHealthiERLakeCounty.com. Florida Hospital Waterman Foundation thanks you for your support!
L-R: Dalton Yancey, Bobby Welter, Tavares Mayor Lori Pfister, Stuart Smith, Dr. Flor Putigna, Dr. Timothy Cheslock, Abel Biri, Senator Dennis Baxley, David Ottati, Dr. Sherryl Gordon, Lake County Commissioner Leslie Campione, Lake County Commissioner Wendy Breeden, Jerry Smith, Bruce Adams, and Bob Berry
Each year, Florida Hospital Waterman’s team of specially trained professionals at the Emergency Department, cares for more than 65,000 Lake County residents.
IN 2016: • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •
65,317 PATIENTS WERE CARED FOR THAT’S ONE PATIENT EVERY 8.3 MINUTES IN ONE OF 35 BEDS
13,345 ARRIVED BY AMBULANCE EVERY
39 MINUTES
15,443 WERE ADMITTED TO THE HOSPITAL AND
1,085 TRANSFERRED TO ICU
And that’s why Florida Hospital Waterman is Lake County’s most trusted hospital and your
#1
choice for emergency care.
WRITER:
JAMES COMBS
This month, the sound of that infamous school bell rings in the start of another school year.
Parents, here’s your first homework assignment. Don’t worry. It does not involve solving algebraic equations, assisting with a science fair project, or helping write an analytical essay about Charles Dickens’ “A Tale of Two Cities.”
Instead, your assignment is this: Get in the habit of packing a nutritious lunch so your little scholar can achieve academic excellence.
Yes, there is a link between diet and academic performance, according to a 2008 study conducted by the American School Health Association. In the study, researchers discovered that students who consumed
adequate amounts of vegetables, fruits, protein, and fiber scored better on literacy tests than those who consumed foods high in salt and saturated fat.
Uh-oh. Those oatmeal cream pies and brownies might keep your child from attending a prestigious Ivy League university. You certainly don’t want to have a hand in that, do you? Of course, planning for healthy lunches is one thing; executing it is a totally different ballgame.
Ze Carter of Leesburg is a chef and culinary instructor who knows a thing or two about children and healthy eating. During the 2016-2017 school year, she visited food managers at various Lake County schools and shared ideas on how to make school lunches healthier and more appealing. And
through her nonprofit organization, Kitch’n Lyfe Skills, she has taught culinary classes to both Lake County students and foster children.
To say she is an advocate of healthy lunches would be an understatement.
“In the 1950s, seeing an obese child was extremely rare,” says Ze, a 2000 graduate of Colorado-based Auguste Escoffier School of Culinary Arts. “Now, childhood obesity is an epidemic. More mothers are working today and find it more convenient to serve frozen foods, Frosted Flakes, and PopTarts. Establishing healthy eating habits early is a wonderful building block for strong growth and healthy development.”
Ze offers tips on how parents can pack healthier school lunches and help their children adopt a healthier eating regimen.
Make sandwiches with whole grain breads. According to WebMD, whole grains have lots of nutrients, including protein, fiber, B vitamins, antioxidants, and minerals such as magnesium, copper, and zinc. Studies have also shown that whole grains decrease your risk of heart disease, stroke, diabetes, obesity, and chronic inflammation.
“Whole grains are what nature intended our bodies to consume,” Ze says. “Because they contain more fiber and nutrients, our body responds more positively to whole grains as opposed to processed grains.”
and vegetables. Unfortunately, canned products are usually
doused with sugar, salt, and preservatives. Moreover, nutrients are lost during processing.
“I recommend that parents slowly add fresh fruits and vegetables around the house so children will develop an appreciation for them,” Ze says. “Give them a thinly sliced apple rather than a bag of chips.”
Buy vegetables and fruits that are in season. The reasons are simple. Prices are generally lower and peak nutritional value is guaranteed. In addition, because out-of-season fruits and vegetables need more assistance to say alive, they typically have more pesticides, chemicals, and preservatives.
“One of the best places to purchase fresh fruits and vegetables that are in season is farmer’s markets,” Ze says. “So not only are you eating healthier, you are supporting local farms and helping the local economy. And taking your kid with you presents a great educational opportunity to let them see where their food comes from.”
Have a themed lunch for every day of the week. For instance, you could invent days like Meatless Monday, Light Taco Tuesday, Thankful Thursday (leftovers), or Fish Friday.
“Don’t do it all at once,” Ze says. “For instance, with Meatless Monday you can still pack your child a turkey sandwich for lunch in the beginning, but don’t have meat for breakfast and dinner. Then, you can eventually work your way up to where your child is not eating meat at all on Monday.”
Get kids involved in the kitchen. A 2014 study published in the journal Public Health Nutrition concluded that “encouraging children to become more involved in home meal preparation could be an effective health promotion strategy.” Because of the increased confidence in the ability to prepare foods, kids will have a greater willingness to try new, healthy foods.
“Kids are most comfortable when they’re at home, so involving them in food preparation inside the comfort of your own kitchen will be a positive experience for them,” Ze says. “You could wake up on a Saturday morning and ask the kids what we’re going to make for lunch this week. Letting them become involved in the decision-making process is a great way to help them make healthy food choices. You can teach them how to dehydrate fruits and vegetables or make their own granola to get them interested in healthy cooking and eating. The bottom line is that they’re more apt
to eat when they participate in the food-preparation process.”
Be a role model. When kids see you scarfing down calorie-filled cheeseburgers and greasy pizza on a regular basis, healthy eating will be a foreign concept to them. After all, various studies agree that a child’s food tastes are significantly related to what their mother likes and dislikes.
“Healthy eating has to start at home and with the parents,” Ze says. “How can parents expect their children to adopt healthy eating habits when they’re not doing it themselves? I hear some children say they don’t like school lunches because vegetables are part of school lunches. They’ve already developed a mindset that vegetables are not very tasty, and they have no idea about the nutritional value of vegetables. Sometimes, introducing your child to healthy food involves
sneaky chef. For instance, if I’m making pasta, I use half white pasta and half whole grain pasta.”
Have healthy snacks at home. Parents tend to buy kid-friendly snacks such as ice cream, popsicles, oatmeal cream pies, and chips. However, if you stock the cabinets and shelves with healthy treats, children will eat them. Raisins, carrot sticks, sliced apples, whole grain crackers, and low-calorie popcorn are great examples of healthy snacks.
“When unhealthy snacks are out of sight, they are out of mind,” Ze says. “I don’t think there’s anything wrong with having chips on an occasional or celebratory basis. Just don’t put chips in their lunch on a daily basis. However, you can be creative in the kitchen with snacks and make things such as dehydrated apple chips.”
While packing a nutritious lunch is important, parents should provide their kids with three healthy meals each day. Anna Gunter, a registered dietitian nutritionist at Leesburg Regional Medical Center’s Wellness Center, gives examples of what constitutes healthy meals.
Breakfast
Oatmeal with skim milk, blueberries, and egg whites.
Lunch
A turkey sandwich with whole-wheat bread, carrot sticks, an apple, and nonfat yogurt.
Dinner
Skinless chicken breast, steamed vegetables such as broccoli, brown rice, skim milk, and a fruit salad for dessert.
Healthy snacks that can be consumed throughout the day
Nonfat yogurt with fruit, nonfat or low-fat cottage cheese with fruit, low-fat cheese with whole-wheat crackers.
When it comes to surgery, I want the best options available to me. The Robotic Surgery Program at Orlando Health South Lake Hospital includes surgeons trained in roboticassisted surgery. Robotic surgery may offer the advantages of:
• Improved surgical precision
• Less pain and scarring
• Less blood loss and risk of infection
• Shortened hospital stay
• Faster recovery
Having access to the most advanced surgical options close to home is why I choose Orlando Health South Lake Hospital. SouthLakeHospital.com/Robotics
I choose a team of talented surgeons skilled in robotics. I choose Orlando Health.
The closest thing in medicine to a “magic bullet” can be summed up in one word: exercise. “Use it or lose it” is not just a pithy saying. It refl the reality that being sedentary is unhealthy. So, here is an action plan in one word: MOVE!
You have heard that “you are what you eat,” but did you know that you also are what you eat eats? Beef from cows that are pasture-raised and grass-fed has much healthier fats than that from cows raised in feed lots on corn and grain. Organic fruits and vegetables grown in healthy soil have up to 40 percent more nutrients than the same fruits and vegetables grown in soil that has been treated with pesticides and chemical fertilizers. Good reasons to buy local and organic when you can.
A calorie is a unit of energy. Nothing more, nothing less. It is the energy required to heat one gram of water one degree centigrade. It is a measure of the energy stored in
food. A calorie is the same whether it comes from fat, protein, or carbs. Your body handles excess calories only one of two ways: if you take in more calories in a day than your body’s metabolism can burn, it can store a little of that as a carb, glycogen, in the liver and muscles. After that, it’s all fat, baby. Ignore this fact of physiology and you end up with a U.S. population where more than two-thirds of adults are overweight and half of those are obese.
All name-brand, high-quality sunscreens work. The best sunblock is the one you use. Sun protection factor (SPF) values higher than 30 are unnecessary. Most people use too little, apply it too late, and don’t reapply frequently enough. Apply enough to cover your skin liberally; 1 ounce (about a shot glass) total for exposed areas. Apply to dry skin at
least 15 minutes before you go out in the sun. Reapply no less than every two hours and more often if you sweat or get wet. It’s best to stay out of direct sun as much as possible. Tanning—any tanning—is unhealthy.
Despite widespread education, media campaigns, and more options than ever to protect yourself from
Medicare supplement insurance policies kick in only after Medicare approves the care and pays its share. If Medicare denies a claim, your supplemental will, too.
If you have several skin cancers, some surgeons will remove only one at a time and allow several months between the surgeries. They do this because they are paid better if they remove the cancers this way rather than removing several at one time. Is this better for patients? Maybe, maybe not.
Genetics is important in your health history but not all powerful. We know that people can have a lot of control over the expression, or non-expression, of genetic tendencies. Because your parents were heavy does not mean you inevitably will be, too. Because one was an alcoholic or drug addict does not doom you to the same fate. You make choices every day that may speed up or slow down the expression of your genetic inheritance from your parents by what you eat and drink, how much rest you get, how much you exercise, how you deal with stress, and so on. Choose wisely.
It is certainly better for the surgeon’s bottom line.
Do you have multiple skin cancers? Medicare will pay your surgeon to remove only up to four skin cancers at one time. If you have more than four, your surgeon will not be paid for any ones removed after the first four. The others will have to be done another time. Why? I have no idea. It makes no medical or economic sense. Think of that when you contemplate turning all medical care over to the federal government.
unnecessary sun exposure, between 2000 and 2010, the incidence of the two most common skin cancers, squamous cell cancer and basal cell cancer, increased by more than 250 percent and 145 percent, respectively. Is there a lesson here?
If you get painful canker sores in your mouth frequently, there is a simple, effective solution: avoid sodium laurel sulfate (SLS). This is the substance that makes toothpaste foam. It damages the mucous lining in your mouth, setting you up for canker sores. Try a toothpaste, like Verve, that does not have SLS in it. You will cut down canker sores dramatically, possibly even eliminating them altogether. Who needs foaming toothpaste?
Vaping with electronic cigarettes has not been proven to be safer than smoking regular cigarettes. We are only beginning to appreciate the potential adverse health effects of vaping. It appears that, rather than helping cigarette smokers reduce their risks of smoking or quitting altogether, e-cigarettes are hooking a whole new generation on nicotine and exposing them to risks that are not yet fully understood. The verdict is still out on these devices.
Our physicians and medical professionals have been treating Central Floridians for years with a level of exemplary cardio care that comes straight from the heart. We’re in a new location now, but our hearts are where they’ve always been—in the right place—with you and the health of your family. New location! The Oaks Professional Center, 8575 NE 138th Lane Call
“Survival, in the cool economics of biology, means simply the persistence of one’s own genes in the generations to follow.”
—Lewis Thomas
“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 continued my training as a health coach at the Institute for Integrative Nutrition’s cutting-edge health coach training program. I studied more than 100 dietary theories, practical lifestyle management techniques, and innovative 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, bestselling author and expert on emotional eating; and other leading researchers and nutrition authorities.
1. Add cut-up bacon to heated frying pan and cook through but not crispy.
2. Add mushrooms, scallions, and garlic to bacon and sauté for about 5 minutes.
3. Add riced cauliflower with ½ cup chicken broth/stock and cook until cauliflower is cooked through but not soggy (should look like rice.)
4. Garnish with scallions or parsley. This is optional.
At Total Nutrition and Therapeutics, I 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 plan meals; helping you create new ideas; and learning how to eat out are a few of the handson lessons you receive. I teach you how to live well for life!
A HEALTHY WAY TO ENJOY GREAT COMFORT FOOD3 bags of riced cauliflower (fresh or frozen) Minced garlic (2 cloves) 1 8 oz. package portobello mushrooms (sliced) Scallions (to taste) ½ lb. bacon cut into small pieces Salt and pepper (to taste) ½ cup chicken broth or stock Parsley (to taste)
Has your current shower seen better days? Have you been exploring the possibility of a shower replacement? If so, don’t put yourself through the hassle of hiring different tradesmen to complete such a project. The Floor Shoppe is your one-stop shop for your shower replacement. In fact, we can help you with everything from demolition, waterproofing, and ceramic tile installation to plumbing fixtures, grab bars, and frameless glass doors.
There’s even greater news! A typical job from start to finish can be completed in as little as five days. We pride ourselves on getting the job done right and on time no matter the size or configuration of your shower. Because we take a customer-oriented approach to all shower replacement projects, we feel it is important to listen to and address all your concerns and needs.
The Floor Shoppe has been the leader in quality flooring sales and installations for more than 35 years. We’ve also been working with The Villages new construction division for 25 years and recently completed our 10,000th home.
Please visit our inspirational showroom at 9815 U.S. Hwy. 301 in the Wildwood Oaks Business Center.
Quality and style in as little as five days.
Fun in the hot sun, cool water, and...bunny slippers? Isn’t that what summer is all about? Well, you probably don’t associate bunny slippers with summer, but when you are trying to lose weight, you should—at least metaphorically. Here’s why.
There is one thing all dieters agree on: weight loss, especially in the early phases, takes a toll physically. In a word, it’s exhausting. There are two very real scientific reasons for this.
The first is that fat cells are the garbage cans of your body. Gross, but true. At the center of every fat cell is a repository where the body locks up toxins. When those fat cells are burned for fuel, all those toxins are dumped into your bloodstream, all day, every day, for as long as you’re dieting. This can make you extremely fatigued.
The second is that, in order to lose weight, you must consume fewer calories than you need to function. That’s just the math of weight loss. But it means for you to use your fat for fuel, you have to be running at a fuel deficit. And it simply won’t feel great.
Here’s the good news. I want you to relax during this period of exhaustion. You don’t actually have to put on bunny slippers; that is just my symbol for taking it easy during dieting. The greatest advantage of this is you won’t get lured into activities that unnecessarily deplete your willpower.
Willpower is a cognitive function that gives you the ability to self-regulate. All of us have access to it in limited doses. It takes only about 15 minutes before we run out. Despite our best intentions, we cave to the temptation of checking Facebook, we lose our patience in traffic, and we eat
something we vowed we wouldn’t. Which is why it’s essential to have a program that expects you to run out of willpower and has you covered.
The first big thing to deplete willpower is exercise. Pushing yourself to exercise in the weight-loss phase is a huge no-no in my program. In fact, our studies have shown that people who insist on exercising lose the least weight of any group. The calories burned just don’t make up for what happens if you get depleted and eat off your plan. The fact is, you can do more damage with your mouth than you can make up on the treadmill.
The next is stress. Remember, you have bunny slippers on! Don’t say yes to chairing the big PTA fundraiser and don’t accept a project at work that means weeks of lost sleep. Wherever possible, try to take life down a notch so the huge lifestyle changes you’re making get the space and respect they deserve.
To replenish willpower, make sure you get enough sleep, avoid stress, and yes, put down the sneakers and kick back with those slippers on.
Writer bio:
Susan Peirce Thompson, Ph.D., is the New York Times bestselling author of “Bright Line Eating: The Science of Living Happy, Thin and Free.” An adjunct associate professor of brain and cognitive sciences at the University of Rochester in New York, Susan iis president of the Institute for Sustainable Weight Loss and CEO of Bright Line Eating Solutions.
352.728.2404
LEESBURG THE VILLAGES TAVARES
Michael A. Freedman, DO
S. Dwight Vaught, MD
Judith Milstead, MD
WRITER: JOY STEPHENSON-LAWS, JD
Insight into my DNA was made possible by personal genomics. Now, I am able to know whether I have cancer-causing genes or other alterations in my genes. You might be someone who adamantly refuses to learn about your genes and whether you are at risk for certain diseases. Avoiding information that threatens happiness or health is not abnormal and is sometimes referred to as information avoidance.
Perhaps no health problem causes as much anxiety as the threat of a heart attack or cancer. Knowing you are likely to have a heart attack or a cancer gene may cause feelings of panic and regret. This is perhaps partly due to the perceived finality of these diseases or how the media reports about cancer and its victims.
In reality, you should have more anxiety if you don’t take the time to learn about your genes and the diseases to which you may be prone. Why? Because in many instances, this knowledge may allow you to make lifestyle changes that could better control the activity of these defective genes. You may not be able to change your DNA, but you may be able to help control the activity of your genes.
Environmental influences like nutrition, cigarette smoke, and hormones have strong influences and affect how active our genes are and how they behave. The activity of “normal” genes may be regulated to express themselves in an abnormal way through tobacco smoke, pesticides, nutrition, and other agents. If you are exposed to tobacco smoke, it may drive a process that changes your gene functions, and those changes could be passed down from generation to generation. This may help explain why, for example, diabetes is hereditary in some families.
Similarly, these “defective” genes may be regulated to express themselves in a normal way. So, a gene is still a gene, and our environment determines how the genes behave. Chemical modifications may switch genes on or off with no change in the DNA sequence.
Take heart attacks as an example. As mentioned, genetics testing can reveal if you have a defective gene associated with a high risk for a heart attack (the representative gene is MTAP).
With this information, you can be proactive and reduce your risk by various activities such as the following:
• Eating a healthy diet consisting primarily of fresh foods that do not contain preservatives or flavor enhancers.
• Eating foods with omega 3 and other essential fatty acids.
• Avoiding smoking, including e-cigarettes, and consuming minimal alcohol.
• Engaging in appropriate exercise. Follow the recommendations outlined in peer-reviewed studies. Treat such studies as facts and not promotional information designed to sell any particular activity. Because the human body entirely comprises cells, their health and well-being is crucial. We are constantly gaining knowledge about the levels of exercise that cells need to remain healthy.
• Reducing stress through yoga, mindfulness, or another form of cognitive behavioral therapy.
• Being vigilant in treating existing conditions like hypertension and high cholesterol.
The ability to control the activity of our genes as opposed to changing the DNA itself is called epigenetics. It’s probably an unfamiliar term to most Americans, but it’s an important one. Normally, changes in gene function occur when there’s a change in DNA sequence. However, epigenetics is the study into how gene functions can change independently. According to the World Health Organization, the “epigenetic code does not affect the information contained in DNA sequence, but controls when and where this information is available to cells.”
Many researchers believe we may be able to use epigenetics to prevent diseases in the future, though the science behind it is limited right now. Epigenetics may also be relevant for therapy for cancers such as colon cancer. Experts also agree epigenetics can be used to explain “health disparities in the burden of various diseases among disadvantaged populations.”
But for now, more research is needed. Here’s what the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says: “Effective prevention and treatment await a more complete understanding of the causes of human disease and the role that epigenetic modifications can play in improving the health of individuals and populations.”
What is apparent is that your genes are not a concrete blueprint for your current and future state of health. Other factors, including environment and lifestyle, may alter the way your genes express themselves. So, it is more important to know about your genes than to practice information avoidance. Your DNA does not have to be your health destiny. Enjoy your healthy life!
Joy Stephenson-Laws is the founder of Proactive Health Labs (pH), a revolutionary health care company that provides tools needed to achieve optimal health. Her new book, “Minerals— The Forgotten Nutrient: Your Secret Weapon for Getting and Staying Healthy,” is available now. All proceeds go to The Bili Project Foundation, an organization devoted to hepatobilary cancers, which are cancers of the liver, gallbladder, or bile ducts.
“Effective prevention and treatment await a more complete understanding of the causes of human disease and the role that epigenetic modifications can play in improving the health of individuals and populations.”
“Cheap labor is not going to be the way we compete in the United States. It’s going to be brain power.”
—Rosabeth Moss Kanter
PROVIDED BY: CONSTANT CONTENT WRITING SERVICE
There are many tricks and techniques to make your brain faster, more focused, and productive. Your brain’s performance depends on three key factors: mental exercises, healthy habits, and alimentation. Here’s how taking action in these three categories can enhance your mental energy.
With regular brain exercise and good nutrition, you should quickly notice improvements in your focus, energy, and mood. It’s easy to boost your brain power, but you must take action.
Follow these recommendations and see how they improve your quality of life.
Training and exercises aren’t just for your body. If you want to strengthen your “brain muscle,” try the following activities:
Close your eyes and concentrate your hearing on the faintest sounds around you.
Focus your eyes on something and observe its smallest details and patterns.
When you talk with someone, try to ignore distractions by increasing your attention on their words.
Have fun by playing games that demand concentration and attention. For example, you could add or multiply the street and house numbers you see while walking.
Perform daily tasks with your non-dominant hand. Studies show this technique improves mental performance.
Do tasks that require manual dexterity. For example, you can build models, play finger string games, paint, or sew. Activities involving finger movement boost brain health.
Feed your brain with oxygen. Exercise is a great choice, or you can just go out for a walk in nature.
Immerse yourself in activities that require your full concentration. Gradually increase the time of these tasks to strengthen your focus.
Your attention is like a muscle: train it and you’ll be less distracted.
These exercises are easy and require little effort. By doing them every day, you’ll increase your mental energy and cognitive abilities.
Seemingly insignificant, your daily decisions affect brain health. The way you do things has a direct impact on your mental strength, so introduce little changes into your daily routine to improve your brain’s performance.
Disconnect all possible distractions. Surrounded by things that require constant attention, it’s difficult to focus on a single activity. Each distraction also means you must regain focus, adding to the length of the task.
Don’t multi-task. Studies show that it’s impossible to properly perform two tasks at the same time because you force your brain to partially concentrate on each activity, reducing performance for both.
Decrease your stress level. Stress limits your cognitive resources and tires your brain. The negative effects of
stress, such as anxiety and depression, directly impact mental health.
Improve your memory. Memorizing quotes, poems, or new songs is good mental exercise. You can take mental pictures of places you’ve been, focusing on the smallest details. Another way to improve your memory is to solve puzzles such as Sudoku, crosswords, and Rubik’s Cube.
Feed your brain. The right nutrition does not only maintain good general health. Good memory, a balanced mood, and strong focus are determined by what you eat. The first step is knowing which ingredients keep your brain active and lower the risk of cognitive impairment.
Your brain is only 2 percent of your total body weight, yet it consumes around 20 percent of the calories you eat. Take control of your diet and include foods that will boost your brain health and performance. Here are some examples:
Walnuts are the number one brain booster. Rich in proteins, vitamins, and minerals, they are an excellent source of alpha-linolenic acid (the plant form of omega-3 fatty acids). They also contain nutrients such as copper, iron, calcium, manganese, and phosphorus. Studies show that people who eat walnuts have better reactions and memory.
Berries are powerful antioxidants and are famous for their positive effects on brain cells. Berries are rich in the flavonoids responsible for improving cognitive skills such as memory, making decisions, and learning.
Fatty fish is known as a mood-booster and an excellent source of the protein your brain needs for neurotransmitters
such as serotonin and dopamine. Fatty fish is also famous for its omega-3 content, which is another essential brain nutrient.
Red meat contains vitamin B12, essential for a healthy nervous system. Studies show that people with B12 deficiency have lower memory test scores. A lack of vitamin B12 also speeds up the brain shrinkage that naturally happens with age.
Olive oil contains large amounts of vitamins E and K, which enhance memory and prevent mental decline. It is also rich in monounsaturated fatty acids that improve various cognitive functions. Olive oil helps reduce the effects of stress.
To remain focused and energized throughout the day, add brain food to every meal. Attention to your diet can enhance your mental performance and your general well-being.
In an increasingly connected world where the Web makes large interactive caches of information available free, there seems to be no excuse for not learning something new every day. And if you have put off mastering that foreign language for years, consider rethinking your decision, because learning a second language poses major benefits to your mental health and well-being. Here are the most unexpected benefits of becoming bilingual.
Researchers at Ghent University in Belgium explored bilingualism’s protective effect against Alzheimer’s disease. In a paper entitled, “Bilingualism Delays Clinical Manifestation of Alzheimer’s Disease,” which was published in the journal Bilingualism: Language and Cognition, it was revealed that the onset of Alzheimer’s symptoms is delayed by about four to five years among bilinguals compared to monolinguals.
This finding is consistent with those in earlier studies that confirmed how new language acquisition could provide crucial exercise for the gray cells of the brain. The mental workout helps prevent the brain’s gray matter from degenerating, thus slowing cognitive decline in old age. In fact, people who speak two languages possess more gray matter than monolinguals, according to the study, “Neuroanatomical Evidence in Support of the Bilingual Advantage Theory,” published in the journal Cerebral Cortex.
Aside from delaying the onset of Alzherimer’s among susceptible individuals, bilingualism also protects against dementia, according to the study, “Bilingualism: Consequences for Mind and Brain,” which was published in the journal Trends in Cognitive Sciences. For bilinguals, the onset of dementia symptoms is delayed by years compared to their monolingual counterparts.
Additionally, a large-scale study on the same subject revealed that bilingualism retards the onset of three types of dementia: frontotemporal dementia, vascular dementia, and Alzheimer’s disease. The beneficial effects were
independent of gender, occupation, and education, as well as whether a person lives in an urban or a rural location, according to the paper entitled, “Bilingualism Delays
Age at Onset of Dementia, Independent of Education and Immigration Status” that was published in the journal Neurology. No additional benefits were found among those who speak more than two languages.
A study published in the journal Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences showed how the auditory nervous system of bilinguals is more fine-tuned than their monolingual counterparts. The more refined auditory system of bilinguals aids in effectively managing linguistic input, which in turn improves working memory and attention.
Likely owing to the heightened level of attention produced by the enhanced receptiveness to linguistic input, bilingualism is also associated with better attentional control, according to a study published in the journal Bilingualism: Language and Cognition. Researchers at the University of Birmingham in the United Kingdom suggested the lifelong practice of using two languages seems to improve a bilingual’s ability to maintain attention.
A study that was jointly funded by the U.S. National Institutes of Health and the National Science Foundation intuited that monolingual seniors expend more energy— and are therefore less efficient—when doing tasks related to cognitive flexibility. Cognitive flexibility is a measure of how well or how badly a person adapts to unexpected or unfamiliar situations. The heightened cognitive flexibility demonstrated by bilingual seniors may have something to do with the lifelong mental stimulation generated by repetitively switching between two languages. This finding was reinforced by a similar study, “Interference Control at the Response Level: Functional Networks Reveal Higher Efficiency in the Bilingual Brain,” whose results were published in the Journal of Neurolinguistics.
Breast cancer is one of the most diagnosed cancers for women. 1 in 8 women (12.5%) will develop breast cancer in their lifetimes. If your primary care doctor or gynecologist is concerned you may have something going on in the breast you may have been referred to a surgeon. Surgeons are trained in diagnosing and treating all forms of breast disease from the simple to the most complex, including cancer.
At Mid-Florida Surgical Associates, our doctors take special care of those women who have been sent to us for a breast issue. We have the ability to do in-office ultrasound and even in-office biopsies if needed. Sometimes a simple ultrasound can make all the worry about breast disease dissipate, however if a biopsy is needed being able to do some of them in the office can also ease some of the worry and expense.
If you are diagnosed with a disease that requires more intense treatments, our doctors lead the way. Our physicians and staff will help guide you through the complex treatment planning. We work closely with several other specialists in the area to be able to offer the most advanced and appropriate treatment to our patients.
Our physicians are all members of The American Society of Breast Surgeons, credentialed and trained in minimally invasive biopsies as well as all surgical treatments of breast disease.
If you or a loved one have an issue with your breast or are concerned about having a breast disease, know that we have your back. Know that the doctors of Mid-Florida Surgical Associates are here for you.
Our website, www.MidFloridaSurgical.com provides information regarding each of our surgeons.
“Sometimes bullies are your friends and very rarely do bullying prevention tips acknowledge this fact or what to do about it.”
—Rosalind Wiseman
There are times when desire and commitment drive you out of your comfort zone. WRITER: MANLEY
FEINBERG II
Manley Feinberg II thought about life’s challenges one day as he stared at a wall of rock in front of him in the Aksu Valley, one of the last frontiers of big-wall rock climbing, in the country of Kyrgyzstan in Central Asia.
Manley, a business leader, motivational speaker, and author of “Reaching Your Next Summit,” was taking on one of the greatest challenges in this adventure sport. Before he could do it, however, he had to put faith in a Russian colleague named Dima, who suffered a seizure only hours before the climb.
Dima served as Manley’s belayer, the one who uses a small metal device known as a belay to control the friction of a climber’s rope and save him if he begins to fall.
“The belay allows climbers to safely accomplish what seems impossible,” Manley says. “The same belay principle can be your secret weapon in life, where someone can help you stretch your own comfort zone and reach toward higher summits while encouraging you and saving you from the falls you will inevitably encounter.”
Manley says the business leaders he often advises and anyone else looking to accomplish lofty goals should
use their own belay system and reach beyond their comfort zone.
He offers these six tips for doing that:
Climbers, like anyone looking to accomplish big things, expect to fall on the way to reaching their summit and that’s why they use a belayer. “Before beginning the climb to your new goal, you should have processes in place to allow for your inevitable mistakes—your own personal belayer, who provides a safety system for when you fall,” Manley says.
A belayer must feed a climber just enough rope to allow him to move in a desired direction. You’ll want partners in business, and in life, who give you enough rope to climb and room to grow.
A belayer can impede your progress if you don’t have enough slack to move. Identifying a belayer who is holding
you back in life and disconnecting from him or her can be one of the most courageous and productive actions you can take.
When you fall, which you will if you try to accomplish goals beyond your comfort zone, your partners must be fully present for you, just as a belayer must lock off the rope right away when a climber begins to fall. Avoid
If a partner gives you too much slack, when you fall, the impact will be greater for both of you.
A good partner helps you recover and get back at your endeavor as soon as possible.
“When executed consistently, the belay lesson will have a dramatic impact on your life,” says Manley, who recommends that those looking to accomplish bigger goals should start their day with two questions: “Who do I need on belay today?” In other words, who can support me to help me accomplish my goals? And, “Who will I belay today?” What individual needs my support the most today?
Writer bio: Manley Feinberg II (verticallessons.com) is a speaker, business leader, and author. His book is “Reaching Your Next Summit.”
Bullying may take a toll on your child’s mental health, self-esteem, and social life. Extreme cases may end in suicide or a suicide attempt. Bullying has many forms: physical violence, teasing, intimidating, and attacking the victim online. As bullying happens in situations without adult supervision, teachers often fail to spot the warning signs, and as a result, a resolution may be up to the parents.
Signs of bullying vary from person to person, and the signs described here may point to some other issues. Talk to your child if you notice persistent negative changes in his or her behavior or mood.
Physical bullying will leave bruises and scratches on your child. Severe and frequent marks accompanied by mood changes are a serious red flag.
Does your child frequently lose clothes, toys, books, or electrical devices? Does he or she ask for money more often than usual? Bullies frequently target the possessions of their victims. If your child comes home from school hungry, his or her lunch might have been stolen.
Bullied children change their attitude toward school and school activities, getting anxious or inventing excuses not to go to school. They may cling to you to avoid getting on the school bus. Bullying can also worsen your child’s school performance.
VIRGINIA MATTEO
A bullied child may experience emotional hardships; he or she may get depressed or anxious or become moody without obvious reasons.
Social isolation is another warning sign. A victim of bullying can develop problems with self-esteem and display a disproportionate feeling of guilt.
The stress experienced by bullied children can manifest in physical symptoms, such as headaches or stomachaches. It may cause nightmares, bed wetting, bouts of crying, or eating disorders.
This list is by no means exhaustive. Remember that only your child can confirm or dispel your suspicions. Victims of bullying may be reluctant to open up, so you need to approach the topic tactfully and with care. Ask if he or she gets along with other children at school. If your child is too traumatized to talk, reach out for professional help. Investigate the matter further by talking to your child’s teachers and, if need be, the school’s principal.
Bullying may result in social exclusion and mental health problems. There are many signs, such as changes in mood and behavior, that may show your child is a victim of bullying. Only by talking to your child or investigating the matter at school can you confirm or dispel your suspicions.
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Friday, October 27, 2017
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Daring to Be Significant!
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“A budget tells us what we can’t afford, but it doesn’t keep us from buying.”
—William Feather
Graduating from college is both an end and a beginning. It is the end of classes, but it is the beginning of a new phase of your life. Moving from college life to the real world requires a great deal of dedication and sacrifice—and lots of financial life lessons. There are a number of important financial lessons every new college graduate needs to know. Learning these lessons now can get those college graduates off to a great start and help them avoid dangerous mistakes.
There are many kinds of debt, from college loans and mortgages to credit card debt and payday loans. While few consider a payday loan or carrying thousands of dollars in credit card debt a good idea, college loans and mortgages can both be positive financial moves.
While no one likes college loans, using them to pay for an education has long-term benefits. The earning power for college graduates is still far higher than the average high school graduate, so college loans pay for themselves over time. Mortgage debt also can be a positive benefit
because it allows people to build equity in their homes and enjoy tax benefits.
Many young people think debt is needed to establish a credit history, but that’s not true. Taking out a personal loan allows you to develop a history of on-time payments, but so will getting a credit card, using it responsibly, and paying it in full every month.
Watching how much you spend, paying your bills on time, and not applying for credit you do not need raises your credit score—all without paying a penny in interest. There is no need to pay money you do not need to pay just to start building a solid credit history.
If jobs are less than plentiful in your hometown, look farther from home for the right opportunity. If the job you take requires you to move more than 50 miles from home,
you may be able to deduct the expenses you incur from your tax bill.
It is important to consult a tax expert for specific details, but many moving expenses are tax-deductible. That might make the decision to move easier and give you more money to start your post-college life.
Many new college graduates starting their first jobs, often at salaries less than they expected, may be tempted to put off saving for retirement until their income is higher. Even so, getting started now can have big benefits later on.
The power of compounding means every year you put off saving for retirement could cost you thousands of dollars. The sooner you get started, the more you can save, and you do not have to earn a huge salary to do it. If your employer offers a 401(k) or other retirement plans, you can start saving with as little as 1 percent of your salary. Almost anyone can afford that.
s the end of summer approaches, parents nd themselves dreading the expense of back-to-school shopping, and with good reason. Many families end up spending several t each child. You don’t have to drain your checking account, however, to ensure your child is appropriately clothed for school. A little planning will go a long way toward slashing clothing expenditures. Here are tips for saving money on those back-to-school
Involve your child in the process to teach the difference between needs and wants.
Now is the time to take inventory of your child’s closet and weed out worn and outgrown items of clothing. Note that some summer items, such as light dresses, can do autumn duty. Pair them with new leggings for school wear. Donate outgrown clothing to charity or take them to a consignment store to help pay for new clothes.
Jot down what your child already has and what he or she needs. Get input from your child to avoid the nuisance of making a number of returns down the road. For girls, consider buying a few quality basics to team with less costly accessories such as tights, scarves, and belts. Promise yourself you will not stray from the list. year. Decide how much of the budget goes to needs and how much goes to wants. You might decide to allocate 90 percent of your budget to necessities and allow your child to spend the remainder on items he or she particularly wants.
Don’t wait until the last minute to shop for clothes. While you might snag a great bargain or two, you are likely to spend more money in an effort to get your shopping out of the way. ts for the first days of school and then take advantage of clearance sales that typically begin two or three weeks later. Scan newspapers and circulars for endof-summer specials. Buying clothing out of season is always a great way to save money. You can pick up items at season’s end to wear the following year for a fraction of the regular price.
More parents are turning to consignment stores to cut clothing costs. Many of these stores offer name-brand clothing in excellent or very good condition. Kids who turn up their noses at the thought of wearing used clothes may change their minds when they see how far their budget will stretch at a consignment store. Make sure your child tries on clothing before buying because many consignment stores do not accept returns. Consider consigning your child’s stainfree, gently used clothing and put the proceeds
Back-to-school shopping does not have to be a budget-breaking headache. Decide what you need, start early, and keep in mind that retailers know consumers are watching their spending this year. Remember, good deals are out there for shoppers willing to do their homework and
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Share an unforge able day of networking, relaxation and friendly competition while advancing excellence in healthcare at Leesburg Regional Medical Center.
Corporate sponsorships for this milestone 20th Anniversary Event are still available and offer great benefits.
To learn more, call Joanne Bates at (352) 323-5506 or email jbates@centflhealth.org
In and around The Villages, a basic 400-square-foot apartment in a assisted living facility can start at $36,000 per year. Even those who have adequately planned for retirement may find this expense unbearable.
Fortunately, there is another option being offered by Hometown Builders, a local Certified General Contractor based in Wildwood.
Multigenerational is the term used to describe these specialized living spaces that can accommodate your mom or dad, your son or daughter who’s just getting started in life, or just old friends and neighbors from back home that love to visit any time of the year. Its living area that is close enough for you to check in on your loved one with ease but private enough where everyone enjoys their own space.
In the last 10 years, have you seen a rise injuries from using their smartphones?
SHave you heard of “text claw” or “cell phone elbow”? What are these and what are the actual medical terms for
Do you think cell phone usage is to blame for cubital tunnel syndrome, carpal tunnel syndrome or any other hand, or elbow?
What are the common complaints?
some of the symptoms of cubital tunnel syndrome?
How is it diagnosed? Answer for cubital tunnel syndrome and carpal tunnel syndrome
What are some of the symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome?
How is it treated? Answer for cubital tunnel syndrome and carpal tunnel syndrome.
How is cubital tunnel syndrome
Better Movement. Better Moments.
Movement is meant to be pain free and moments have the power to shape our lives. Injury and pain can make it feel like your life has been put on pause. At The Orthopaedic Institute, our goal is to take exceptional care of you. From diagnosis to recovery, we can help you press play again. Our highly trained specialists understand that better movement leads to better moments.
When should someone see 352-633-7222 I www.toi-health.com
a
doctor if they think they are experiencing any of these
WRITER: JAMES COMBS
It’s one of the most infuriating questions anyone can ask me. I rank it right up there with “Why are you so quiet?”
In fact, it’s worse than that because, for me, there’s no clever way to answer, “Have you ever been married?”
Having to tell a woman “no” comes with a flashing warning sign. Her eyes grow big and she tilts her head sideways as she carefully studies me. Thoughts race through her brain.
“Commitment phobe.”
“Playboy.”
“Psychological issues.”
“Gay.”
It’s never fun to be psychoanalyzed, but none of those things accurately explain why I never uttered the words “I do.” Truth is, some of us are single at heart and relish the single lifestyle. We don’t need a boyfriend/girlfriend or husband/wife to be the sole source of our happiness and make us feel complete. We’re not about to enter into a substandard relationship just to appease the masses and avoid being stigmatized.
Don’t tell this to serial daters, but there definitely are benefits when you are not wrapped up in a life for two. I don’t have to worry about relationship drama, fighting with the in-laws, or shelling out lots of dough to win a child custody battle. Nobody is keeping tabs on my every move, allowing me to indulge in my favorite activities and habits that would make a prospective wife fret. Like watching 12 straight hours of college football in total peace while letting empty beer cans accumulate around my recliner.
Still, there’s immense cultural pressure to get married, and those who aren’t basking in the romantic glow of love are held in lower esteem than our married counterparts.
Perhaps it’s time for singles to turn the tables and start psychoanalyzing those in relationships and marriages. After all, they provide us with plenty of ammunition.
Troubling things are going on in the world of “love” today. The divorce rate hovers around 50 percent, adultery is as common as death and taxes, and an estimated 1.6 million men in the United States are paying child support for children that are not biologically theirs (paternity fraud should be a crime, but that’s another story for another day).
And let’s not forget that one in three women have been victims of some form of physical violence by an intimate partner, according to the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence. Personally, I’d rather watch SportsCenter alone for the rest of my life than be the type of man who batters a woman and makes her feel hopeless, helpless, and entrapped.
Please don’t think I’m against relationships. I think it’s wonderful when a man and woman truly respect and honor a lifetime commitment of marriage. At the end of the day, though, we all should be judged, as Martin Luther King Jr. famously said, “by the content of our character” rather than our relationship status.
OK, rant over. I’ve got to hop in the shower. But before I do, I’m going to let my underwear slide down my legs, flip it in the air with my right foot, and see if I can catch it with my left hand.
Ahhh…the single life.
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