Healthy Living September 2012

Food can make us sick or heal our bodies, but which foods are the ones we should eat?

Find out about the

CELEBRATING THE FOUR PILLARS OF A HEALTHY LIFE

FEATURING

LIVE HEALTHY COOKING SHOW presented by The Healthy Gourmet

A keynote address from Licensed Nutritionist of Lake Nutrition Centers

JEFF WITTMAN PLUS OVER 50 EXHIBITORS from the health, wellness, and nutrition industries all under one roof! SPECIAL GIVEAWAYS!

GIVEAWAYS/ SPECIAL OFFERS

PREMIER MEDICAL

6 free treatments raffled off

PLAZA CADILLAC

Hats, t-shirts, pens and key chains

LEXINGTON PARK

Local restaurant gift card

SALT ROOM

Enter to win a gift basket

GOGA

All EXPO attendees get 3 free sessions

KA DEE KAY

10% off for each of our booth visitors

BOSSHARDT & MARZEK

First 50 booth visitors get a free cosmetic consultation plus 10% off surgeon’s fees

IT WORKS!

Enter to win a complimentary wrap

LEADING EDGE DENTAL

Enter to win a bleaching kit, 1-hour massage, or a $1000 mini implants procedure

SHARIE GARDNER

Free set of eyebrows and a set of eyeliners raffled off

HERITAGE DENTAL

Enter to win a gift basket

CHIROPRACTIC USA

Win 12 free chiropractic sessions

PAMPERED CHEF

Calendars for the first 50 visitors

Plus enter to win a free dinner

IMAGE LIFT

Enter to win a chemical peel

A portion of the proceeds benefits

Where Hope Comes to Life

FRIDAY, NOV. 16, 2012 10A.M.–2P.M. AT HARBOR HILLS COUNTRY CLUB 6538 LAKE GRIFFIN RD, LADY LAKE FOR MORE INFORMATION: CONTACT TINA AT TINA@AKERSMEDIAGROUP.COM OR HLMAGEXPO.COM // 352.787.4112

intestinal

Dr. José Diaz Board-Certified in Internal and Pulmonary Medicine. Privileges at LRMC, The Villages Regional Hospital and Florida Hospital Waterman.

Dr. Marjery Lopez Board-Certified in Internal and Pulmonary Medicine. Privileges at LRMC, The Villages Regional Hospital and Florida Hospital Waterman.

We help you become your best self.

“After having two children, my body changed drastically. Once the baby-weight was gone, I was left with a large amount of loose skin on and around my breasts. I found a godsend in Bosshardt and Marzek Plastic Surgery Associates. I had a breast lift and augmentation performed. I can say that the experience was truly life-altering. To see myself as beautiful again gives me a feeling that can only be described as extraordinary. I offer my deepest gratitude to these angels in lab coats.”

— Kelly Raley

PLASTIC SURGERY ASSOCIATES

T.

M.D.

Peter A.

Tavares,

M.D.

September 2012

NEW TRITION

The “Westernized” American diet is killing millions of us each year. The “convenience” foods we have come to crave are the very ones causing heart disease, high blood pressure, stroke, and diabetes. But there is hope. A change in diet today not only stops these progressive diseases in their tracks, it can reverse much of the damage that has already been done. The answer to your dietary problems may very well be just outside in your garden — turn over a new leaf — literally, and find the true meaning of NEWtrition.

WRITERS: BETSY STOUTMORRILL, MAGGIE ROSS, AND JIM GIBSON

ON THE COVER CONCEPT: ANTHONY CASTO DIRECTION: STEVEN J. CODRARO PHOTOSHOP: JOSH CLARK

CONT C ED D

IN EVERY ISSUE

WRITER: JEFF ROMNES EAT

HEALTHYSPIRIT

INNERVENTION

66 IGNORE ALL FRIEND REQUESTS FROM RAMSAY

74 YOU’VE GOT QUESTIONS; WHO’S GOT ANSWERS?

WRITER: TABATHA ARCARO-ORTIZ

WRITER: TRACI BROSMAN

HUNT:HE IS A VIRUS. You may be down, but you are not out!

WRITER: HEATHER RAGER

Financial literacy can save you a bundle!

WRITER: ELLEN B. WILCOX

76 HYBRID FEVER

WRITER:

WRITER: TRACY DRAPER

68 FORGIVE… AND FORGET? Repentance, love, mercy, and gratitude sets us free.

WRITER:

Saving green and the planet.

WRITER: CHRIS BRIDGES SHOP

77 LABOR DAY DEALS

Budget, make a list, and save!

WRITER: MARY EDWARDS

WRITER: KEVIN BOZADJIAN

Ditch the beef for a savory portobello mushroom burger.

Ditch the beef for a mushroom

AWARD-WINNING NEWS

Irecently shared with you the fact that our Akers Media Group team entered Healthy Living magazine into a contest hosted by the Florida Magazine Association called The Charlie Awards. The Charlie award represents the pinnacle of achievement in Florida magazine publishing. We have participated in this contest since the birth of Healthy Living in 2008 and I am happy to say over the past several years we have fared very well.

I am often asked the question “Why do you enter a contest that judges your magazine? Is it just to receive awards? If so, what do you do with them?” While it is always a great feeling to be recognized for doing a good job, that is not my reason for entering. I choose to enter this contest because I want to continue to grow and learn. I am a strong believer in the idea that the moment you stop being a student of your craft it is time to move on to something different.

I am extremely passionate concerning magazines in general, and most passionate about Healthy Living magazine. Entering such a competition puts our magazines up against the “best of the best.” We are in the company of many of Florida’s greatest magazines and we are judged by magazine experts from across the country. I love to hear the feedback such renowned judges offer as they call out the awards because it is my opportunity to receive positive and constructive feedback on our magazine.

With that said, I am happy to announce that the 2012 competition turned out to be our best year ever. Akers Media entered Healthy Living magazine in some of the toughest categories available. We stood toe-to-toe with magazine legends from around the state — and we came out victorious time after time.

I am very aware of the fact we could not have won such prestigious awards without my amazingly hardworking, dedicated, and talented staff. I would like to thank each and every one of them for a job well done. I would also like to thank the Lake and Sumter community for embracing Healthy Living and allowing us to represent such an amazing group of health-conscious individuals.

It is my promise to our readers that we will continue to strive to be the best and deliver nothing but the top quality, trustworthy information you deserve.

KENDRA AKERS publisher kendra@akersmediagroup.com

DOUG AKERS vice president doug@akersmediagroup.com

EDITORIAL // DESIGN

JIM GIBSON executive editor jim@akersmediagroup.com

TIFFANY ROACH managing editor tiffany@akersmediagroup.com

JAMES COMBS staff writer james@akersmediagroup.com

BETSY STOUTMORRILL, PH.D. copy editor betsy@akersmediagroup.com

HEATHER TOOTLE office manager heather@akersmediagroup.com

contributing writers

TABATHA ARCARO-ORTIZ

RICHARD T. BOSSHARDT

KEVIN BOZADJIAN

CHRIS BRIDGES

TRACI BROSMAN

TRACY DRAPER

MARY EDWARDS

FRED HILTON

TOVA J. KREPS

HEATHER RAGER

JEFF ROMNES

ELLEN B. WILCOX

JAMIE EZRA MARK creative + content director jamie@akersmediagroup.com

CIERRA CHAPPELL production manager cierra@akersmediagroup.com

STEVEN J. CODRARO art director steve@akersmediagroup.com

JOSH CLARK senior graphic designer josh@akersmediagroup.com

ANTHONY CASTO graphic designer anthony@akersmediagroup.com

contributing designers KEVIN DANKO

FRED LOPEZ chief photographer fred@akersmediagroup.com

contributing photographers AUBREY AKERS SHAENA CHASTAIN

MORGAN ELLIS

MELISSA MARBURY HEATHER TOOTLE

TINA MORRISON administrative assistant tina@akersmediagroup.com

SALES // MARKETING

TIM MCRAE

vice president of sales and marketing tim@akersmediagroup.com

MIKE STEGALL senior marketing representative mike@akersmediagroup.com

HEIDI RESSLER marketing representative heidi@akersmediagroup.com

DISTRIBUTION

SCOTT HEGG distribution manager scott.hegg@akersmediagroup.com

Kendra Akers publisher

You’re Reading Florida’s BEST Overall Magazine.

EAT RESPONSIBLY

You are what you eat. Never has an adage been truer. Unless you inherit a genetic propensity for a specific disease, have an accident, or are affected by an environmental toxin, (all relatively rare occurrences), your overall health will be basically determined by your diet.

Many of the maladies affecting Americans today — cardiovascular disease, Type 2 diabetes, some forms of cancer, and other various illnesses — are directly attributable to the “Western” diet. High sugar, high fat diets are killing Americans at an alarming rate, but change is slow to come.

The fact is, you are the one who is going to have to affect change if you want to improve your health and possibly prolong your life. The various companies that comprise the food industry in America have a stranglehold on our government and any change that does come about, comes at a snail’s pace… much too slow to affect your or my life. If we want change, we must initiate it ourselves.

And that is the way it should be anyway. We should not be dependent on our government or the corporate world or even a nutritionist on television to give us guidance when it comes to our individual decisions. Our diet is totally our responsibility. If we are now suffering from our past decisions, the blame is entirely on us and change is entirely up to us. It is time we took control of our lives.

Once you determine to make changes, the next step is to find the right ones to make. Starting this month, here at Healthy Living we are going to make it a priority to focus even more on nutrition. Along with exercise, it is probably the most important aspect of living a healthy life. Knowing that, we will be bringing you more information on the latest research into the proper diet so you can make informed changes.

I think we can all say we are more than a bit frustrated with the contradictory information we have been fed in the past. Take eggs… please. They started out as a wholesome dairy product, then became little white orbs of cholesterol killing Americans by the million, and now they are considered the perfect protein and can be eaten in moderation, just like most foods.

So what are we to believe? We have to arm ourselves with knowledge and make the best informed decisions we can make. We will supply you with a broad range of information and we hope to help you make the right decisions. Here’s to informed eating.

Jim Gibson editor

What are the benefits of da Vinci robotic surgery?

Ocala Health System offers the latest technology in a full spectrum of medical specialties for women and their families. From our state–of–the–art da Vinci robotic surgical system to imaging services, cancer care, cardiology, orthopedics and more — we provide the highest quality care for every patient, through every stage of life. In addition, we are accredited by the Joint Commission.

The da Vinci robotic surgical system offers many benefits compared to traditional surgery or other minimally invasive techniques. These include: significantly less pain; less blood loss and scarring; shorter recovery time; faster return to normal daily activities; and in many cases, better outcomes. That’s why robotic surgery with the da Vinci robot is considered the best option for a variety of procedures.

For more information about the benefits of robotic surgery and procedures offered, visit H2Uwomen.com or call Consult-A-Nurse at 1 (800) 530-1188. When you have questions, we have the answers.

Contributors

TABATHA ARCARO-ORTIZ

Tabatha Arcaro-Ortiz received her bachelor’s degree in food science and human nutrition from the University of Florida and a master’s degree in nutrition and dietetics from Georgia State University. She is a clinical dietitian who has worked at Leesburg Regional Medical Center for the past 12 years. For nutritional counseling, please call 352.323.5641 to make an appointment with an LRMC outpatient dietitian or email Tabatha at tortiz@cfhalliance.org.

RICK BOSSHARDT, M.D., FACS

Rick Bosshardt, M.D., graduated from the University of Miami School of Medicine in 1978. He founded Bosshardt & Marzek Plastic Surgery Associates, Lake County’s first practice to provide full-time cosmetic and reconstructive plastic surgery services, in 1989.

KEVIN BOZADJIAN

Master stylist, colorist and razor-cutting expert Kevin Bozadjian is renowned for his style and hair coloring artistry. Kevin, who has over two decades of experience and training in both classic and current styles, practices his trade with great passion. Today, he can be found servicing a large, loyal client base at The Salon T. in Baylee Plaza at 16920 S. US Hwy 441 in Summerfield. Call 352.245.2000 or email kjbozcut@yahoo.com.

CHRIS BRIDGES

Christopher Bridges is a financial advisor at Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC (member SIPC) in The Villages. He earned a Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering from the U.S. Air Force Academy and a master’s degree from the University of Florida. Chris’ experience helps his clients preserve, protect, and pass on their wealth. He can be reached at 352.751.7847.

TRACI BROSMAN

Traci Brosman is co-founder of World Wellness Education, which is dedicated to encouraging and inspiring others to live healthier lives. On LakeFront TV’s World Wellness Education show, Brosman interviews others who are on a journey from sickness to health. Brosman also helps health and wellness professionals through her mastermind groups and success coaching. Contact her through www. holisticmarketingmentors.com or www.worldwellnesseducation.org.

TRACY DRAPER

Tracy Draper is an AFAA certified personal trainer with over 10 years of experience in the profession. Sports were a big part of her teen years. After having children, she rekindled her competitive fire and won titles in triathlons, aquabike, and cycling events in Central Florida. Visit her at www.TrainingWithTracy.net.

MARY EDWARDS

Mary Edwards is a wife and mother to four young children, a business owner, and a blogger. She strives to teach others how to save money and improve their budgets. Mary also enjoys sharing her knowledge in community outreach programs and coupon classes. Mary is the owner and author at www.couponersunited.com.

FRED HILTON

Fred Hilton spent 36 years as the chief public relations officer/spokesman for James Madison University in Virginia and 10 years prior as a reporter and editor for The Roanoke Times in Roanoke, Virginia. He is now happily retired in The Villages with his interior designer wife Leta, their Cadillac Escalade golf cart, and their dog Paris. (Yes, that makes her Paris Hilton).

TOVA J. KREPS

Tova Kreps is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and the President of Wellspring Counseling, Inc. in Miami, Florida. She has been practicing as a therapist with families, couples, individuals and children for the past 20 years. She is a Qualified Counseling Supervisor in the state of Florida, is a certified practitioner of EMDR, and is a Certified Trauma Specialist.

HEATHER RAGER

Heather Rager is a professional photographer and mother of three terrific kids ages 15, 13 and 11. After years of owning a photography studio, only one thing could lure her away — the job offer of her dreams at Akers Media. She currently owns KZK Social Media Management, helping other businesses nationwide enhance their social media presence. Visit her website at KZKsiocialmediamanagement.com.

JEFF ROMNES

Jeff Romnes is a graduate of the University of Wisconsin with a degree in psychology. He has worked as a counselor, in the computer software development industry, and for the last nine years in the fitness industry. Jeff is currently the Central Florida area director for group fitness with Gold’s Gym and he is a fitness and small group TRX instructor at their Mount Dora and Dr. Phillips locations.

ELLEN B. WILCOX

Ellen B. Wilcox is a graduate estate planning consultant. Educated at Gettysburg College, the University of Maryland, Paris, France, and Arizona State University, Ms. Wilcox brings more than 33 years of experience to her clients. She is president and CEO of Wilcox Wealth Management, a full service financial advisory company in Lady Lake, Fla. Ms. Wilcox may be reached at 352.259.1547.

ADVISORY BOARD

RICK BOSSHARDT, M.D., FACS

Plastic Surgeon

ROSANNE BRANDEBURG, MBA

Executive Director, Lake-Sumter Community College Foundation, Inc., Chairman, Lake County School Board

PATRICIA BURGOS

Environmental Program Manager

Lake County Water Authority

RUTH ANN BYRD, LA, CME

Aesthetic Skin Solutions

AL CARDIELLO

Certified Personal Trainer

KATHERINE COOK

Founder of the Leesburg Center for the Arts

ISAAC DEAS

Interfaith Chaplain for Cornerstone Hospice

LORI ESAREY, ARNP

Total Nutrition Therapeutics

TERRI FECHTEL

Liaison for Suncoast/Omni Home Health

GREG FRESCOLN

Principal, First Academy-Leesburg

MAEN HUSSEIN, M.D.

Hematology, Oncology, Internal Medicine

SHERI HUTCHINSON

Public Information Officer, Community Outreach Manager, Lake County Health Department

CAROL MILLWATER

Executive Director, Lake-Sumter Medical Society

MANDY RICHARDSON

Marketing Manager, Mid-Florida Eye Center

ERIC ROUKEY

Physicians Consulting Group

B. E. THOMPSON

Director Of Development, Lifestream Behavioral Center

ELLEN WILCOX, GEPC Wilcox Wealth Management

JEFF WITTMAN

Licensed Nutritionist, Owner, Lake Nutrition Centers

The Healthy Living Advisory Board consists of a handpicked group of knowledgeable individuals representing a unique cross section of Central Florida business owners, professionals and individuals. They provide a critical review of our magazine and offer recommendations of approval or adjustment based on their distinctive skills and life experiences.

Beating-Heart Surgery in Lake County.

Keep your heart care close to home with Mission Cardiovascular & Thoracic Surgeons, specializing in providing treatment for patients with disorders of the lung, airway, heart and great vessels. Gary Allen, MD, FACS is board-certified in cardiothoracic and general surgery. He is one of very few surgeons who performs the “beating heart” open-heart surgery, where the heart is not stopped, only slowed down with medication. This revolutionary technique is less invasive and much safer, decreasing the risk of kidney or liver complications. The strength of the heart is preserved, plus the recovery time is only 3-4 weeks. If you suffer from the following conditions, you might want to open your heart to Dr. Allen:

Severe Coronary Artery Disease | Heart Defects | Heart Valve Damage

Gary

S.

3120 Waterman Way, Tavares, Florida 32778

HEARTFELT CARE

In November 2011, fellowship-trained cardiothoracic surgeon Dr. Gary Allen performed the first open-heart surgery at Florida Hospital Waterman. In June 2012, the hospital celebrated the completion of 100 openheart operations, including open-heart surgery, coronary bypass, and heart valve replacement and repair.

“The fact that we reached this milestone far sooner than expected is a testament to the unmet need in our community that we’re now fulfilling,” says Florida Hospital Waterman Heart Center Director Richard Pearce.

Dr. Allen is skilled in the unique option of “beating heart” surgery, a procedure where the heart is not stopped during the operation. Patients spend less time in surgery and enjoy a faster recovery. Additionally, each patient is assigned a multispecialty cardiac care team to ensure the very best outcome. ■

Overcome obstacles

Nurturing aspiring nurses

A $42,500 contribution from the Charles and Mary McLin Foundation will help further support the simulation technology curriculum currently being offered for nursing students at LakeSumter Community College. The grant complements the classroom experience and allows students to gain hands-on experience and to practice what they have learned. The simulation technology allows instructors to use both preprogrammed and customized scenarios to teach problem-solving and decision-making skills in medical emergencies.

Virtual patients have helped modernize nursing education by providing another level of protection before students care for real patients in hospitals and other clinical settings.

“The nursing department is very appreciative of the McLin Foundation,” says Dr. Maggie Wacker, director of nursing at Lake-Sumter Community College. “This grant has provided us with the technological support to deliver state-of-the-art nursing education to our students.” ■

SHINING LIGHT ON HEALTHCARE

According to its website, SHINE (Serving Health Insurance Needs of Elders) is a “free program offered by the Florida Department of Elder Affairs and your local area agency on aging.” Specially trained volunteers provide oneon-one counseling and answer your questions to help you better understand your Medicare, Medicaid, and health insurance plans. The services are “free, unbiased, and confidential.”

SHINE volunteers will be at the Eustis Library from 10a.m. to noon on the following dates: September 4, 7, 11, 12, 13, 18, 19, 21, 25, 26, and 27. The Eustis Library is located at 120 N. Center Street. For more information, visit www.floridashine.org. ■

Think it would be fun to try a four-mile run filled with challenging obstacles? Then consider competing in Monster Challenges, which will be held September 15 in Clermont.

Throughout the run, participants must conquer 18 unique obstacles, which include a zip line, log tower climb, cargo net climb, hurdles, monkey bars, and much more. Some obstacles are built around or above mud and water, which adds a degree of fun and difficulty to the event. Those who get dirty need not worry, because competitors can shower once they’ve completed the course.

Lisa Grayford, a group fitness instructor and personal trainer at Gold’s Gym in Clermont, helped form Monster Challenges along with her brother-in-law, Jim Grayford, and friend Debbie Wilson. The first race was held last April and received praise from competitors. “They enjoyed seeing how far they can push their bodies and testing their physical endurance,” Lisa says. “We hope to have this event three times a year.”

Participants must be at least 14-years-old. Each competitor receives a medal, t-shirt, and a drawstring bag. Competitors over 21 also receive a free drink coupon for a beer. In addition, trophies will be awarded to the top male and female competitors in various age groups. For more information, visit www.monsterchallenges.com.

VETERINARIAN OFFICE GOES HOLISTIC

Looking to help your dog or cat get a leg up on life? Then perhaps you should take your pet to Northgate Animal Clinic, which is offering natural approaches to treating common dog and cat ailments such as osteoarthritis, hip dysplasia, and musculoskeletal disorders.

Dr. Claire Caruana, who recently joined the Leesburg-based veterinary practice, is completing her certification in veterinary acupuncture at the world-renowned Chi Institute of Chinese Medicine, which trains licensed veterinarians to become cuttingedge animal healthcare providers. Because each animal is different, a veterinarian certified in acupuncture is trained to make a proper diagnosis and to design an individually tailored treatment for a pet.

“My interest in acupuncture began after personal experience with the treatment years ago,” says Dr. Caruana, who graduated from the University of Florida College of Veterinary Medicine. “It inspired me to pursue veterinary training in this modality so that I can effectively integrate it into traditional Western approaches and generate better health outcomes for my patients.” ■

Forget you not

Here’s an alarming statistic: nearly 70 percent of caregivers die before the Alzheimer’s patient they care for on a daily basis. The physical and emotional stress associated with caring for an Alzheimer’s patient is overwhelming, and caregivers often put their own self-care aside. The Alzheimer’s Association offers some tips to help reduce caregiver stress.

• Only assume tasks you can accomplish.

• Learn about and utilize local resources.

• Don’t be afraid or ashamed to ask for help from family members, friends, and local resources. Do not go at this alone.

• Make time to exercise, sleep, and maintain a healthy diet.

• Take a break if you feel overwhelmed.

• Learn relaxation techniques such as deep breathing and stretching.

• Accept inevitable changes.

Strength in safety

Florida Hospital Waterman was honored with an “A” Hospital Safety Score by the Leapfrog Group, an independent national nonprofit organization run by employers and other large purchasers of health benefits. The Hospital Safety Score was calculated under the guidance of the Leapfrog Group’s Blue Ribbon Expert Panel using publicly available data on patient injuries, medical or medication errors, and infections.

“We are very excited about Florida Hospital Waterman’s grade, which is reflective of our ongoing commitment to keeping patients safe by providing the highest quality of care,” says CEO Ken Mattison. “It is most gratifying to be recognized in this way for fulfilling our mission of extending the healing ministry of Christ.”

The score represents a hospital’s overall capacity to keep patients safe from infections, injuries, and medical or medication errors. ■

BAD TO THE BONE

According to the Florida Department of Health website, osteoporosis is a debilitating disease that often has no symptoms until a fracture occurs. The National Osteoporosis Foundation estimates that 1 in 2 women and 1 in 4 men over the age of 50 will experience an osteoporosis-related fracture in their lifetimes.

Risk factors include age, low weight, smoking and/or alcohol abuse, a history of falls, cardiovascular disease, and other diseases — such as type 2 diabetes, asthma, liver disease, eating disorders, depression, and Crohn’s disease. Low levels of the hormone estrogen in women or testosterone in men and an inactive lifestyle can also contribute to risk. ■

MOM ENTUM: A LESSON IN PHYSICS

This is the thirteenth time I’ve started writing this article. Who knows, maybe 13 will be my lucky number? Ah, but apparently luck has nothing to do with it — I’m learning, it’s really all about physics. This is ironic because I barely passed physics in high school and yet here I am now: a mother of four kids and a prisoner to its laws. Well played, Mr. Newton. Well played.

In physics, momentum is “mass in motion.” If you want to know how much momentum an object has, you multiply how much “stuff” (mass) is moving by how fast the “stuff” is moving (velocity):

Momentum = Mass x Velocity

If you are like me and your kids decided to start the day at 5:30a.m. and you are on the eleventh reheat of your first cup of coffee, then all of this complex physics is already sounding a little complicated. So let me explain it this way:

You are Momentum. And if you want to know how

much Momentum you have, you multiply your mass (post pregnancy) by the number of meals you prepare, dishes you wash, loads of laundry you start, soccer and gymnastics practices you drive to and from, matches of shoes you find, tangled (shrieking) messes of hair you brush out, Cheerios you sweep off the floor, and times you say “close the door!”

Momentum = Muffintop x Infinity

That’s a pretty big number, right? Feeling pretty full of Momentum, are you? Well, not so fast. This is where Sir Isaac Newton really decided to stick it to us:

Newton’s First Law of Motion: an object in motion stays in motion with the same speed and in the same direction unless acted upon by an unbalanced force.

And we all know what an “unbalanced force” is. I gestated and delivered four beautiful unbalanced forces. As a matter of fact, I just finished cleaning up the nail polish my unbalanced forces decided to paint on themselves as well as my newly

installed floors. At restaurants I tell the hostess we will need seating for “two adults and four unbalanced forces. Booster seats would be great. Thanks.”

In other words, Newton’s First Law of Momentum states: you are an intelligent, hardworking and effective human being with the potential to accomplish important and rudimentary tasks unless you have a child. In which case,

Momentum = “Mom! Mom! Mom! Mom!” x Infinity

The physics explain a lot. It explains why I have not accomplished a single thing in the last five years and nine months. It explains why I have: unorganized drawers, piles of thank you notes never sent, partially decorated rooms, unfinished conversations, absolutely no completed baby albums, a load in the wash that needs to be put in the dryer, at least seven journals I’ve started with only one entry, forty-seven voicemails on my phone, and a half eaten sandwich sitting in front of me, while I sit here trying to write this article for the thirteenth time. The

physics explain why I become discouraged. And why I am so darn tired.

The laws of physics dictate that when it comes to “Mom,” there is no “entum.” Our little unbalanced forces will constantly act upon us, they will always collide with our daily agendas and our to-do lists. There will be fevers to feed and shoelaces to tie and gum to extract from hair. There will be spills to wipe up, batteries and diapers that need changing, arguments to referee and lastminute rides to give.

My lesson on physics pretty much ends here. After all, one of my unbalanced forces is calling for me to come wipe her bottom. And the physics of Momentum dictate that I will stop what I am doing to help her, because according to The Law of Conservation of Momentum, in a collision, one object gains momentum and the other loses momentum. However, the total amount of momentum possessed by the two objects does not change.

Momentum is simply transferred from one object to the other object.

WRITER: TIFFANY ROACH // PHOTO ILLUSTRATOR: JOSH CLARK

Medical mysteries

FIDOCHROME: CAN DOGS SEE COLOR?

WRITER: FRED HILTON // PHOTOGRAPHER: FRED LOPEZ

I’ve often wondered if Paris Hilton can tell the difference between her yellow ball and her blue ball. She chases either one and, if she is in a good mood, she brings it back to me. Then, she bats her long white eyelashes and wags her big fluffy tail until I give her a Beggin’ Strip.

Obviously, we’re not talking about that Paris Hilton. Our Paris Hilton is a 7-year-old white American Eskimo dog who is every bit as much a diva as her better-known namesake. I’ve been a Hilton considerably longer than the richer and blonder Hilton, so I figured I could name our dog whatever I wanted. Person Paris and I are not related; although I did send Paris’ greatgranddaddy, Conrad, an invitation to both my high school and college graduations. He didn’t show up, much less comp me a room at the Waldorf as a graduation gift.

The purpose of all this silliness is to address the burning question of the day: can dogs see in color? When I was a kid, the conventional wisdom was that our cleverly-named cocker spaniel, Pooch, could only see in shades of gray. Although Pooch has long been in Doggie Heaven, I am happy to report the good news that he could actually see in color — as can Paris and all their four-legged brethren. The bad news is that their color vision really stinks.

Writing in Psychology Today, Dr. Stanley Cohen explains that “dogs do see colors but the colors they see are neither as rich nor as many as those seen by humans… Dogs see the colors of the world as

basically yellow, blue, and gray. They see the colors green, yellow, and orange as yellowish, and they see violet and blue as blue. Blue-green is seen as gray.”

A study done by Jay Neitz at the University of California pointed out that humans have trichromatic vision and can see the whole visual spectrum — all the colors of the rainbow — but “the dog’s dichromatic vision has a limited range.”

On the plus side for the dogs, Dr. Dawn Ruben points out in an article on PetPalace. com that “dogs are better at seeing in dim light, responding to an image rapidly, and detecting the slightest motion. They also have better peripheral vision.”

To test out my new-found knowledge, I decided to throw Paris her yellow ball and her blue ball at the same time to see which one she chased. She decided to take a nap instead. I’ll let you know how it comes out.

PROSTATE PROBLEMS?

Does this sound familiar? As you grow older do you realize you are getting up more often at night to urinate?

Have you come to accept this as an inevitable part of aging as did your father or his father before him?

“Men no longer need to suffer from frequent urination because they are getting older,” says Dr. James Young, a down-to-earth urologist with 29 years of experience at Urology Associates of Lake County in Eustis. Although the cause of these symptoms is most likely an enlarging prostate (BPH), a normal part of the aging process in men, treatment options are more numerous and less invasive than those offered to our fathers and grandfathers.

Years ago there were two options for treating an enlarged prostate… surgical excision via an open operation (knife) or much more commonly by performing a transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP), commonly referred to as a “roto-rooter” by patients and physicians. Both required hospitalization as well as major anesthesia and could be fraught with complications such as bleeding, infection, loss of bladder control and even death.

“In my career I have performed over 3,000 TURPs; however, I no longer perform any,” says Dr. Young. “There are presently too many excellent alternatives to consider a hospital operation for the vast majority of patients with BPH.”

“When I see new patients I perform a physical examination and properly evaluate the symptoms, thus diagnosing the underlying problem(s),” he says. “Next I describe to the patients what’s normal and then explain what is abnormal with them. Lastly I teach them their treatment options. If I’ve done a good job of teaching, they will select the correct option for them.”

While prescribing medications for BPH can be done by primary care

physicians, only urologists are trained to thoroughly evaluate the bladder and prostate (including ruling out prostate cancer) as well as providing extremely effective minimally invasive office-based therapies as alternatives to life-long medical therapy.

One such option is Prostiva-RF Therapy, a procedure performed by Dr. Young in his office under local anesthesia that usually takes less than 30 minutes. Prostiva utilizes low level radiofrequency energy to ablate (destroy) the obstructing component of the enlarged prostate.

“I am very happy with the results I have achieved for my patients using Prostiva-RF Therapy,” says Dr. Young, who has successfully treated more than 900 patients with this procedure. “Medtronic is a $13 billion a year publicly traded corporation that perfected the technology for Prostiva and produces the necessary hardware. Recently Medtronic produced an educational DVD for international distribution to inform patients and physicians worldwide regarding the benefits of Prostiva therapy. Seven of the eight patients featured on the DVD are my patients. I am very proud Medtronic selected my practice to feature the benefits of Prostiva-RF Therapy. However it is sort of a bad news/good news thing. The bad news is neither my patients nor myself received a penny for our participation.

The good news is Medtronic gave us all the DVD’s we want, so if anyone wants one all he needs to do is drop by my office at 801 Northshore Drive in Eustis and we will give him one!”

And with an office staff with nearly as much experience as the doctor, (many have worked with Dr. Young more than

20 years) you don’t spend a great deal of time waiting to see him. “We pride ourselves in being timely in seeing our patients. We respect our patient’s time as much as we do our own,” adds Dr. Young. “Patients appreciate this; many of our patients tell me I have the best office staff on the planet. I consider that a huge compliment.”

So if you are getting up at night and can’t get back to sleep because you are thinking about what may be wrong with you, it’s time to check in with Dr. Young and have him check you out.

“Many men accept frequent bladder urges as part of aging. And while it is part of the aging process, it’s not like death and taxes. There is something you can do about it,” he says.

JAMES W. YOUNG III, M.D.

Practicing in Lake County since 1982 with extensive experience in evaluation and management of prostate problems.

EDUCATION

Board Certification: American Board of Urology, February 1984

Medical Degree: University of Arkansas, 1977 College: University of Mississippi, 1973. B.A. Chemistry and English RESIDENCY

University of Arkansas, 1978-82. Urology

INTERNSHIP

University of Kentucky, 1977-78. OB/GYN

CURRENT MEDICAL LICENSURE

Florida and Arkansas

HOSPITAL AFFILIATIONS

Medical staff of Florida Hospital Waterman 1982 – present

Vice-Chief of Medical Staff 1987–88 Waterman Medical Center

Chief of Medical Staff 1988-90 Waterman Medical Center

ASSOCIATES OF LAKE COUNTY

Since 1982

352.357.6786

801 Northshore Drive, Eustis, FL 32726

www.ProstateEvaluation.com

Our Patients Say It Best...

MEDICAL & SURGICAL TREATMENT OF:

• Bunions and Hammertoes

• Corns

• Morton’s Neuromas

• Ingrown Nails and Warts

• Heel and Arch Pain

• Thick Painful Toenails

For Tammy Bennett, it was disheartening to watch her 12-year-old daughter, Calista Bennett, suffer in pain from an ingrown toenail. Calista could not wear closed-toe shoes or skates. Tammy grew even more frustrated after several visits to a local podiatrist yielded absolutely no results.

“That podiatrist kept injecting a needle into the bottom of the foot, which is a very sensitive area,” Tammy says. “The area around her toe remained swollen and continued draining because it was infected.”

At a friend’s recommendation, Tammy scheduled her daughter to see Dr. Johnny Wu at Tri-County Podiatry. Dr. Wu took a different approach to treat the ingrown nail that plagued Calista. He performed a permanent nail removal procedure in the office, and Calista is now back at school free from pain and infection.

“The outcomes between the first podiatrist and Dr. Wu were as different as day and night,” Tammy says. “I appreciate that he incorporated a different technique, and I also enjoy his cheerful personality as well. Seeing what he was able to do for my daughter, I am now a patient at Tri-County Podiatry and my mother is going there as well. At Tri-County Podiatry, you receive the results you are looking for in an office full of friendly, warm people.”

• Foot Injuries

• Diabetic & Geriatric Foot Care

• Sports Medicine

• Orthotics

• Diabetic Shoes

• Numbness/Tingling of Feet

Same day appointments also available

“Footcare for people of all ages with active lifestyles.”

They might be telling you something you need to hear about your heart.

ARE YOUR LEGS TRYING TO TELL YOU SOMETHING?

PAD – Peripheral Arterial Disease – is a condition characterized by restricted blood flow to the arms and legs, though it manifests most often in the lower extremities. A diagnosis of PAD means the blood vessels carry vital oxygen and nourish the muscles and structures of the leg have been damaged in some way, usually through a build-up of plaque in the arteries (atherosclerosis).

Pain, nature’s elegantly efficient alert system, tells us when something is wrong somewhere in the body. It speaks volumes to us when it occurs in our legs. The signs may be subtle at first – a persistent numbness or tingling in the foot or toes. Later, we might begin to notice a painful throbbing in the calves or thighs if we sit for too long. Sometimes when we exercise, go for a walk or climb some stairs a recurring sharp stab tries to tell us something is just not right.

The good news? Pain has alerted us to a problem we can now begin to address. The bad news? Only 20 percent of persons with PAD will ever feel that persistent or intermittent pain (called intermittent claudication). There are several reasons. Some may simply have a high pain tolerance and just “push through the pain.” Others may have damaged nerves, most often from diabetes, that make it impossible to feel any pain. Still others may live a lifestyle that never stresses the legs enough to ever cause pain in the first place. For all those people who experience no pain, their legs may still be talking to them, but in different ways. Legs that constantly feel “heavy” or weak could be showing symptoms of PAD. Feet or toes that are constantly cold or numb are exhibiting classic signs of PAD. Difficulty walking or balancing and sores that take a long time to heal are also symptoms.

redness, feet or toes that turn a dusky blue or even black are warnings that cannot be ignored. Skin ulcers that refuse to heal are another. What do you do if you suspect your legs or feet are trying to tell you something? Let the experienced medical technicians and certified physicians at ICE translate for you.

A few simple tests, most of them painless and non-invasive, can help determine right away how healthy the blood vessels in your extremities really are. Our doctors will assess your contributing lifestyle factors – smoking is the number one risk factor for PAD. We’ll begin by testing blood pressure, cholesterol levels and glucose for diabetes. Comparative pulse and blood pressure checks on different areas of the body help point up variations in blood flow.

used such as a Magnetic Resonance Angiogram (MRA) or Computerized Tomography (CT) Angiography.

If the presence of PAD is confirmed, Dr. Asad Qamar and his team of medical experts at ICE can begin treating the condition to head off any further damage and start the healing process. Angioplasty, catheterization and stents put in place to widen arteries and increase blood flow are just some of the procedures Dr. Qamar may call upon to help reverse the effects of PAD. Beyond merely diagnosing PAD, the tests you undergo at ICE may ultimately have an even greater impact on your overall health and welfare. If the presence of PAD is confirmed, it is often the first warning sign your body gives you that you have an increased risk of coronary artery disease, stroke or heart attack.

PAD ha more adv there are

Discolor

PAD has progressed to a more advanced stage when there are actual changes to the skin that become visible. Discoloration is a primary warning sign. Constant

An ankle-brachial index test (ABI) will indicate how narrow your arteries are and assess the flow of blood through them.

A Doppler ultrasound may be prescribed as an alternative to an API. If warranted, more sophisticated tests may be

EileenGOULD

FROM WILDWOOD, FL

“I know I might sound like a teenage movie fan or something, but Dr. Qamar is one of the few doctors I’ve met who has the attitude that the patient really count. He knows just the right words to

Are your legs trying to tell you something your whole body needs to know? Listen to them and let ICE be your first step on a journey to a much healthier, more enjoyable and longer life.

say to make a patient feel everything’s going to be all right. He treats me like an intelligent woman and I appreciate that.

“I know things are changing in my body –I’m 88 years old! Some days are good. Some are bad. But that comes with the journey. I’m old enough, I’ve lived a good life but I’d still like to know a little more about what’s in store for me around the bend.”

Q+A ON PAD

with Dr. Felix Esarey and Dr. Johnny Wu of Tri-County Podiatry.

How common is PAD among the patients you see?

Dr. Wu: I’d say a good 30% of the patients we see have symptoms of Peripheral Arterial Disease.

Dr. Esarey: Especially among our diabetic patients. The higher levels of blood sugars leads to calcifying vessels, higher plaque formation.

What are the symptoms you see?

Dr. Esarey: Patients come in complaining about cramps and “tightness in their legs.” We conduct a basic exam and look for color changes, coldness, pulse irregularities.

Dr. Wu: It varies. We see numbness, weakness, cramping. Overall, people describe their legs and feet as feeling “heavy.” They can’t do what they used to be able to do without being tired. Or having pain. We’re trained to look at feet for systemic problems. That’s what we do.

Are incidences of PAD getting worse?

Dr. Esarey: I would say yes. Obesity is on the rise. Diabetes is on the rise.

Dr. Wu: And smokers just aren’t quitting. Smoking is one of the major contributors to PAD I still see doctors who smoke. Nurses who smoke. It’s crazy.

How do you treat PAD?

Dr. Esarey: Catheterization. You need to get in there and clean out the arteries. Sometimes stents are used.

If those aren’t possible, a bypass may be necessary - like on the heart but for arteries in the leg.

Dr. Wu: Whatever we need to do to get blood flowing again. Soft deposits we can use angioplasty. Calcified deposits usually need to be drilled out.

When is it time to call in a cardiologist?

Dr. Esarey: If we diagnose it, we refer our patients out to get treated. There’s no waiting for complications. We like to avoid complications.

Dr. Wu: We look at family histories, lifestyles and the results from a basic exam. If we think there’s something going on under the skin we refer them.

Why is ICE so important to this community?

Dr. Esarey: They understand PAD completely. We can get our patients in there quick. We’re trying to save people’s legs here. It’s not just toes. Early identification is crucial.

Dr. Wu: Exactly. Time is of the essence with PAD and Dr. Qamar is so knowledgeable. ICE has state-of-the-art equipment and Dr. Qamar is very thorough. He looks over our patients’ cardio systems from top to bottom.

What’s the prognosis for someone diagnosed with PAD?

Dr. Esarey: The worst

scenario? Leave it untreated and you’ll get gangrene and amputation. The best outcome? Someplace like ICE opens up your blood vessels, opens up circulation, gets you walking more. You may battle PAD the rest of your life but you are not doomed by it.

Doctor Wu: Too often, by time we get to make our diagnosis the disease has progressed too far. When that’s the case, unfortunately the prognosis is not great. Proper follow-up and maintenance are critical for a good outcome.

If you could say one thing to people about the health of their legs and feet what would it be?

Dr. Esarey: Don’t take them for granted. If they hurt – get them checked out. It’s much easier to take care of things early than to wait and try fi xing them later.

Dr. Wu: Don’t ignore your feet. It’s not normal to hurt. Do not delay or procrastinate. If you think something’s wrong check it out. As Dr. Esarey says, earlier rather than later. Denial is not a river in Egypt.

JudithBELAIR

FROM LADY LAKE, FL

“I went in for a broken big toe and a bunion on my other foot. I play golf twice a week and I run on a treadmill. So I needed help.

“Dr. Esarey examined me and said he couldn’t operate because I didn’t have enough blood flow in my legs. He sent me to Dr. Qamar who did X-rays and MRIs. He found right where the blockages were, cleared them out and put in some stents.

“The whole experience was a good one. Between Dr. Esarey and Dr. Qamar I know I have two of the best doctors around. I’m going to have my operations now on my toe and bunion. I can’t wait to be pain free after all this. There aren’t words for me to express really. I’m very lucky.”

WHETHER YOUR GOAL is simple hair removal or the desire to enhance or restore your “look” we can help.

FACIAL COSMETIC SURGERY AND ENHANCEMENTS

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PEDIATRIC AND YOUTH SERVICES

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THYROID AND PARATHYROID DISORDERS

Over 2,400 years ago, the man now known as the “father of Western medicine,” the Greek physician Hippocrates, knew how important nutrition was to human health. He wisely said, “Let food be thy medicine and medicine be thy food.”

Today, it has been scientifically proven that not only is nutrition vitally important to keep our bodies active and strong, it is just as important to keeping our bodies healthy and disease-free.

With that knowledge has come confusion. If food is so important to our well-being, just which foods provide the human body with optimal health? Is there one diet that is perfect for the living organism that is man?

Carnivores, herbivores, or omnivores?

What types of food are human beings designed to eat? Are our bodies readily adapted to eat and digest both meat and plants?

Carnivores eat primarily meat and have certain physical characteristics that equip them for this type of diet. Herbivores eat primarily plants and are also adapted accordingly. Omnivores eat both meat and plants.

When it comes to humans, how are our bodies designed?

Teeth

Our dental structure is designed to eat both meat and plants. Humans have eight incisors, four canines, eight premolars, eight molars, and four wisdom teeth.

The incisors are used for

shearing or tearing and can be used for either a meat- or plant-based diet.

The maxillary canine is the longest tooth in the body and is very similar to the prehensile canines belonging to carnivorous animals… this leads many researchers to believe that man was at one time primarily a meat eater.

The premolars are used for gripping and tearing, much in the same way as the canines.

The molars and wisdom teeth are used to grind food making it easy to swallow. This grinding action effectively chews both meat and plants.

Digestive tract

Herbivores have long digestive tracts and a cecum which aids in the digestion of plants and fiber. Carnivores have short digestive tracts that enable digesting meat to move through the intestines quickly without putrefying. The length of our digestive tract falls in between that of meat eating carnivores such as wolves or lions and herbivores such as cows, horses, or sheep. We have a cecum but also have the ability to readily digest meat. The cell types and number of crypts in our digestive tract also indicate we are designed to eat both meat and plants.

Ancestors

Skulls from one of the earliest forms of man, Australopithecus, indicate that from our most rudimentary form we have been hunter/ gatherers. New research even indicates that mankind’s

carnivorous tendencies, and the resulting spike in protein intake, may have led to an increase in brain size that has brought us to where we are today.

Genetic relatives

Chimpanzees, our nearest relatives in the animal kingdom, although mainly herbivores, sometimes hunt, kill, and eat other small animals.

Food availability in the past

Looking back in time, before the wholesale production of food, man had to forage in order to eat. The availability of both plants and meat afforded man the opportunity to readily eat either.

The evidence that humans are omnivorous is overwhelming and most researchers believe this to be an established fact. Our bodies are designed to bite, chew, and digest both plants and animals.

So what do we eat?

Establishing the fact that the human body can readily digest both meat and plants still does not tell us what diet is the optimum diet for health and wellness. Just because we can eat certain foods doesn’t mean we should eat them.

Scientific research has proven that many of the diseases Americans suffer from today are diet-related. Cardiovascular disease, high blood pressure, Type 2 diabetes, some autoimmune disorders, and some cancers are directly linked to the foods we eat. This means our

biological freedom to eat most foods is one we must exercise with wisdom — and caution.

The American diet has undergone tremendous change over the last century. A burgeoning population increase led to the establishment of densely-populated urban areas, which in turn led to the creation of the supermarket, convenience foods, and eventually fast food restaurants. Diets that consisted of fresh vegetables, fruit, freshly killed meat, and very little sugar, soon changed into diets high in processed, refi ned foods, preservatives, and simple sugars.

In his 2011 documentary fi lm, Forks Over Knives, director Lee Fulkerson, an American independent fi lmmaker, claims that dietrelated degenerative diseases such as high blood pressure, Type 2 diabetes, osteoporosis, arteriosclerosis, most cancers, and most auto-immune diseases can be eliminated, controlled, or even reversed — by replacing animal-based and processed foods with fresh plant-based whole foods.

Fulkerson bases his documentary on the research of American physician Caldwell Esselstyn and professor of nutritional biochemistry Colin Campbell. In his book The China Study, released in 2005, Dr. Campbell, who grew up on a farm eating both meat and dairy products, claims that the diseases listed above are directly linked to the American diet of animal-based and processed foods. The study showed over 94,000 direct correlations between diet and disease.

Vegetarians have a lower risk of death due to heart disease, less incidence of cancer, live longer, and are generally in better health than other Americans.

Fulkerson points out that in the early 1900s the average American ate 120 pounds of meat, 40 pounds of processed sugar, and 294 pounds of dairy products each year. Those numbers have grown to approximately 222 pounds of meat, 147 pounds of sweeteners, and 605 pounds of dairy products eaten by each individual American annually.

Drs. Esselstyn and Campbell say this explains the exponential increase in the incidence of deaths from heart attack, stroke, cancer, and the complications of diabetes. They point out that one American dies every minute from heart disease, 1,500 people die every day from cancer, and 1 out of 3 Americans will develop diabetes in their lifetimes. This means that over 1 million Americans die every year from diseases these doctors consider to be diet-related.

Dr. Campbell states that the major cause of cardiovascular disease, cholesterol, is naturally produced within the bodies of all animals. Only when humans take in extra dietary cholesterol, which is only found in animal foods

DISEASES

THAT ARE DIET-RELATED:

• Coronary disease

• Vascular disease

• Stroke

such as meat, eggs, and dairy products, does it begin to build up in our arteries and adversely affect our health. Over 500,000 Americans annually undergo open-heart surgery to bypass cholesterolfi lled coronary arteries in a last-ditch effort to prevent heart attack and death.

Research conducted by Dr. Esselstyn and others proves that the intake of animal protein is a primary cause of

liver cancer.

In the late 1970s, Dr. Esselstyn, who was a noted breast cancer surgeon, grew frustrated that all he could do was operate to save lives and not help prevent the formation of cancer in the fi rst place. He began to study the prevalence of breast cancer worldwide. He found that the chances of a woman getting breast cancer in America were 82 times that of a wom-

FORKS OVER KNIVES

DIET-RELATED INFORMATION:

• The average American is 23 pounds overweight.

• 40 percent of Americans are considered obese.

an in Kenya. Looking further, he also found that the risk for heart disease in rural China was 12 times less than that of the U.S. and in the highlands of New Guinea cardiovascular disease was almost nonexistent. Intrigued, he dug deeper and found that in Japan in 1958 there had been only 18 deaths attributed to prostate cancer compared to America which had over 14,000 deaths. The Asian country’s population was only slightly less than one-half of America’s.

According to Dr. Esselstyn, the common link between all the areas he studied was that the non-American countries eschewed the Western diet, eating no animal products, dairy, or meat of any kind.

At the same time, Dr. Campbell’s research in the laboratory clearly proved that nutrients from animalbased foods promoted cancer growth and nutrients from plant-based foods decreased cancer growth. He says, “We found we could turn on or turn off tumor growth simply by changing diet.”

In 1985 Dr. Esselstyn began a study of 18 gravely ill patients who had undergone

• 460,000 American women die from heart disease and stroke each year.

• Type 2 diabetes (90 to 95 percent of all cases of diabetes)

• Some autoimmune disorders

• Some forms of cancer

• ½ of all Americans take prescription drugs.

• The statin drug Lipitor, which reduces cholesterol in the bloodstream, is the most prescribed drug in the world.

• 1 in 5 four-year-olds are considered obese.

• There are 215,000 new cases of prostate cancer diagnosed in American men each year.

• In 25 percent of cases, sudden death is the first sign of coronary artery disease.

and failed both angioplasty and coronary bypass surgery. Five of the patients were so ill they were told their life expectancies were less than one year. Dr. Esselstyn started each patient on a lowfat, whole-food, plant-based diet with small quantities of low-fat dairy products and minimal amounts of cholesterol-reducing drugs. Five years later, 11 of the patients had experienced no progression of heart disease at all and four patients had actually experienced a regression of disease. All 18 patients survived the 12-year-long study and 14 lived for 20 years.

In 1990 Dr. Esselstyn read The China Study and immediately removed dairy products from his patients’ diets. They continued to improve and he published his fi ndings: that coronary artery disease could be arrested and even reversed by eating a whole-food, plant-based diet.

A surprising fact turned up by Dr. Esselstyn’s research was that countries with the highest intake of dairy products had the highest incidence of hip fractures. This directly contradicts the dairy industry’s claim that the cal-

cium in milk helps prevent diseases such as osteoporosis that weakens bones.

Both Drs. Campbell and Esselstyn emphatically state that if we want to stop diet-related diseases in their tracks we need to switch to this type of diet. This means excluding all meat and dairy products from your menu. Both researchers believe that many of the diseases we call common can be completely eradicated and reversed with the proper diet.

One man’s journey

Fulkerson’s motivation for his documentary was his own failing health. When he began his journey back to health, his weight was 231 pounds, his blood pressure was 142/82, his resting pulse was 92, his blood cholesterol level was 241 with his LDL (bad cholesterol) level at 157, and his C-reactive protein (CRP) was 6, putting him in the high-risk category for a heart attack. (High CRP levels, which measure infl ammation in the body, have been linked to heart attack, stroke, and peripheral artery disease. Anything higher than a 3 is

considered high risk.)

Under physician supervision, he began a 12-week nutrition program, eating only a whole-foods, plantbased diet. After only 12 weeks his weight dropped to 211 pounds, his blood pressure lowered to 112/70, his resting pulse dropped to 60, his cholesterol dropped to 154 with LDL dropping to 80, and his CRP dropped to 2.8. The changes were nothing less than miraculous.

In his documentary, Fulkerson showcases several others who made changes equal to or greater than his, simply through eliminating meat, dairy products, and refi ned and processed food from their diets and replacing them with fresh vegetables and fruit.

Our journey

The ultimate determination of our overall health, in most ways, is controlled by us and us alone. The research of Drs. Campbell and Esselstyn is extensive and above reproach. Combined with the results of Fulkerson’s own personal changes, it could be proof that a whole-foods, plant-based diet just may be the perfect diet for the human body.

According to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), a vegetarian diet means you miss out on only one thing — the major health problems affecting most Americans today. According to the NIH, a vegetarian diet focuses on fruits, vegetables, dried beans, whole grains, seeds, and nuts and only about 2 percent of adult Americans follow this type of diet. The organization also states that vegetarians have a lower risk of death due to heart disease, less incidence of cancer, live longer, and are generally in better health than other Americans.

If you suffer from cardiovascular disease, high blood pressure, Type 2 diabetes, osteoporosis, cancer, or autoimmune disease, it is very possible that a change in diet could be a major step toward a healthier life. Visit www. forksoverknives.com for more information on how to purchase a copy of Fulkerson’s documentary.

Lists of plant-based whole foods can be found online along with assorted recipes designed to aid anyone desiring to try the vegetarian lifestyle.

Professor Emeritus of Nutritional Biochemistry, Cornell University; Project Director of the ChinaOxford-Cornell Diet and Health Project; author of more than 300 research papers and recipient of more than 70 grant-years of peer-reviewed research funding; served on several grant review committees and actively participated in the development of national and international nutrition policy; internationally known lecturer and co-author of The China Study

Former internationally known surgeon at the Cleveland Clinic; served as President of the American Association of Endocrine Surgeons and Chairman of the Cleveland Clinic’s Breast Cancer Task Force; written over 150 scientific publications including his benchmark long-term nutritional research on arresting and reversing coronary artery disease in severely ill patients; author of Prevent and Reverse Heart Disease.

T. Colin Campbell, Ph.D.

Caldwell B. Esselstyn, Jr., M.D.

KNEWtrition

Mother Nature naturally “processes” her cornucopia through the changing seasons, so finding nutritious food was simple for our ancestors foraging or hunting in the great outdoors. Today’s food industry redefines “processed” and sometimes throws out or genetically engineers what Mother Nature so perfectly created. Finding something to eat from the grocery store aisle may now be easier — but what are we really eating? Before you bite off more than you can — or should — chew… make sure you really know what you are putting in your mouth.

WRITERS: BETSY STOUTMORRILL AND MAGGIE ROSS

You can’t go wrong, filling up on these healthy choices:

WHAT’Sthebest? YES say to these bad foods!

Leafy green vegetables, especially dark ones like spinach or cabbage, may reduce the risk of Type 2 diabetes, plus are rich in vitamins A, B6, C, E, and K. Additionally they are a source of selenium, niacin, zinc, phosphorus, copper, folic acid, potassium, calcium, manganese, beta carotene, and iron.

Blueberries have polyphenols which are thought to reduce the development of fat cells, which can reduce obesity, plus they reduce the risk of high blood pressure.

Fish, like salmon, trout, mackerel, herring, sardines, and anchovies have omega-3 fatty acids (plus vitamins A and D) known to benefit the heart and inflammatory conditions like arthritis.

Sweet potatoes have dietary fiber, beta carotene, vitamin B6, and carotene, plus they are ranked No. 1 for vitamins A and C, iron, calcium, protein and complex carbohydrates.

Broccoli is rich in fiber, folate, potassium, calcium, beta-carotene, and phytonutrients that reduce the risk of heart disease, diabetes, and some cancers.

Almonds are packed with iron, calcium, vitamin E, riboflavin and magnesium and help maintain healthy cholesterol levels.

Avocados have calories derived mostly from monosaturated fat, are high in insoluble fiber, and studies have found that their nutrients can destroy pre-cancerous oral cancer cells.

Even though peanut butter is high in fat, it’s not fattening — a 90 calorie tablespoon (or two) will satisfy your hunger and provide protein and folate (B vitamin) needed for new cell development.

Don’t avoid a good cut of beef; just be sure it’s lean to reduce saturated fat and dietary cholesterol. Lean beef is a low-fat source of protein and iron… deep red steaks with minimal marbling are the best choices.

Choose the right chocolate for the job… dark chocolate has flavanols, which are antioxidants that benefit cardiovascular health and can reduce the stress hormone cortisol. Just watch the calories by eating no more than 1.4 ounces a day.

That cup of morning coffee might just do more than perk you up… it might reduce your risk of dementia, diabetes, and liver cancer. Moderation is again the key with 2–4 eight-ounce cups a day, unless you are pregnant or breastfeeding when no more than two cups a day is recommended.

Super-satisfying eggs are not off limits for those watching their cholesterol and heart health. Research says egg yolks offer lutein and zeaxanthin, which are shown to reduce age-related macular degeneration, plus exchanging a scrambled egg for a fried egg reduces fat and is a very satisfying breakfast with whole-grain toast.

Don’t cross these “misunderstood” foods off your list of indulgences!

WHAT’Sin it? WHAT’S that mean?

Coca Cola 12 fl oz can (1 serving per container): 140 calories, 0g fat, 45mg sodium, 39g carbohydrates, 39g sugars, 34mg caffeine.

Pepsi 12 fl oz can (1 serving per container): 150 calories, 0g fat, 30mg sodium, 41g carbohydrates, 41g sugars, 38mg caffeine.

Snickers 1 bar (1 serving per bar): 271 calories, 13.6g fat, 140 mg sodium, 34.5g carbohydrates, 28.8g sugars

Baby Ruth 1 bar (1 serving per bar): 275 calories, 13g fat, 138mg sodium, 39g carbohydrates, 32g sugars

8oz grilled sirloin steak, lean cut, unmarinated (serving size 1 steak): 450 calories, 58g protein, 19.5g fat, 0g carbohydrates, 0g sugars, 6.8mg iron

3oz ground beef, lean meat (serving size 1 patty): 182 calories, 23g protein, 9g fat, 0g carbohydrates, 0g sugars, 2.5mg iron

Lay’s Classic Potato

Chips snack size (1 serving per bag, about 15 chips): 150 calories, 10g fat, 180 mg sodium, 15g carbohydrates

Rold Gold Tiny Twist

Pretzels snack size (1 serving per bag): 110 calories, 1g fat, 580mg sodium, 23g carbohydrates

Samuel Adams Boston Lager (serving size 1 bottle, 12 fl oz): 170 calories, 0g fat, 0mg cholesterol, 0mg sodium, 18g carbohydrates, 0g sugars

Yuengling Traditional Lager (serving size 1 bottle, 12 fl oz): 128 calories, 0g fat, 0mg cholesterol, 0mg sodium, 10g carbohydrates, 0g sugars

Sutter Home

utterHHome

Chardonnay

(serving size 5oz, or 1 glass): 120 calories, 0g fat, 0mg cholesterol, 0mg sodium, 3.8g carbohydrates, 0g sugars

Barefoot Merlot

(serving size 4oz, about 1 glass): 92 calories, 0g fat, 0mg cholesterol, 0mg sodium, 0g carbohydrates, 0g sugars

Serving size: Knowing appropriate portion size is critical to maintaining a healthy weight, while also watching our sugar intake, WebMD.com offers printable wallet-size and fridgesize portion guides!

printable wallet-size and sizeortionuide ! ze

Number of servings in package: Here’s where calories can really ruin a diet. Even though the package may seem to be offering a “single serving” with 100 calories, actually there are three servings in the package so we just added 300 calories! A “single box” of Cracker Jack seems like a good snack choice: 0g Trans Fat, no gluten, no milk, Kosher, MSG free (just beware of peanut allergies!) At first glance it looks like 120 calories, not bad for a quick sweet and salty snack… except this box has 3.5 servings (half cup)… so our snack just hit 360 calories!

3 oz. cooked chicken = deck of cards

3first ingredients

Mike Adams, known as the Health Ranger on NaturalNews.com, offers these tips for reading ingredients labels:

• Ingredients are listed in order of their proportion in the product… the first three matter more than anything else.

• Stick with ingredients you recognize. Avoid any product with long, chemicalsounding words you cannot pronounce.

• Don’t be fooled by fancysounding herbs or other ingredients way down on the list because the farther down the list, the more miniscule the amount.

• Ingredient lists do not have to list chemical contaminants, such as pesticides or other toxic chemicals. Choose organic, fresh, or minimallyprocessed foods to minimize ingestion of toxic chemicals.

• Look for “sprouted” or “raw” to indicate higher-quality natural foods, avoid “enriched” grains.

• All flour comes from wheat, so don’t be fooled by “wheat flour.” Only “whole grain wheat flour” is in its healthy form, meaning it has not been bleached or stripped of its nutrition.

• Brown products are not healthier than white products. For example, brown sugar or brown eggs are the same as their white counterparts.

• Watch for deceptively small serving sizes that are used to make the food appear to have less calories or grams of sugar or fat.

HERE’Sthebeef

on the new rules for meat labeling

Meat labeling is changing based on new rules by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA). As of March 1, 2012, nutritional information must be available for ground meat and poultry, and for popular cuts of meat and poultry. Previously the USDA only required labeling when something was added (marinade or stuffing), according to Elisabeth Hagen, M.D., USDA’s undersecretary for food safety. “We think this is important for consumers because they often are building their entire meal around this protein component they are going to put on the plate,” says Hagen.

WHAT’S

Milk,cheese,dairy

Crackers,Cookies Animalfats,lacksfiber, homogenizedfats homogenizedf

Breakfastcereals(sweetened) hiteflourHydrogenatedoils,whit

Healthyoils:flax,olive,macadamia,etc.

Seeds:sesame,hemp,chia,etc.

Processedmeats sugarsWhiteflour,addedsug

AvocadosNuts:cashews,almonds,peanuts,etc.

Frozenfriedfood Lackfiber,refinedgrain

Instantrice,instantgrain Highsodium,MSG,artificialpreservative hsodium,MSG

Snackdips,artificialguacamole Refinedgrains,addedsugars

Shortening Hydrogenatedoils,MSG

Bread(nonwhole-grain) Hydrogenatedoils,MSG

Fishoils:salmon,cod,etc.

Seavegetables:kelp,kombu,etc.

Blackstrapmolasses Hydrogenatedoils

Bran:oat,wheat,rice Qualityplant-basedproteins Proteinpowders:rice,soy Highinhealthyoils

the difference?

Wholefood concentrates Highfibe

Wheatgerm

You are starving right? And don’t have much time to eat… so you hang a right into the drive-thru of the closest fast-food restaurant. Before you take that first bite, here is a quick peek at what you are putting into your body… and we are not even considering the large fries and the soft drink you added because “it saves money to order the combo!”

WholegrainsMicroalgae:spirulina,chlorella Highprotein,minerals, phytonutrients High-densityHighvitamins,minerals nutrition

HealthyAntioxidants,healthyoils heart,brain,andmore

Highinvitamins,fibe

Sproutedgrains Healthyimmunefunction,minerals

Healthyoils,highfibe antioxidants

Highfiber,healthyoils,vitamins,more

Healthyheart,brain,andmore

Healthyoils,phytonutrients

Download the NaturalNews.com’s Honest Food Guide for “an independent, nutritionally-sound reference document that reveals exactly what to eat (and what to avoid) to maximize your health,” says Adams.

SOURCE: http://www.naturalnews.com/021929.html

So you can start looking for changes now, like nutrition label on ground meats and poultry, also labeling on 40 popular cuts of meat and poultry (chicken breasts, pork chops, and steaks), the percentage of both lean and fat, and the number of calories and grams of total fat and saturated fat. Be aware of the fact that small businesses that grind meat can be exempt from labeling, but must post the nutritional values for customers. Also know that labels do not have to list trans fats. Hagen believes this new labeling or posting of nutritional values allows customers to make healthier choices by being able to compare ground or cut meats and poultry.

SOURCE: http://www.webmd.com/diet/news/20120301/new-usda-nutrition-labels-for-meat-poultry

McDonald’s® Quarter

McDonald

Pounder with cheese

Calories: 513 Total Fat: 28g

Carbs: 40g Protein: 93g

Dave’s Hot ‘n Juicy 1/4lb Single w/ cheese

Calories: 580 Total Fat: 33g

Carbs: 42g Protein: 31g

¼ pound of 85/15 ground beef

Calories: 244 Total Fat: 17g Carbs: 0g Protein: 21g

SOURCES: “What’s the difference?” http://nutritiondata.self.com/facts/fast-foods-generic/8051/2; http://www.wendys.com/food/Nutrition.jsp#; http://www.fatsecret.com/calories-nutrition/usda/ground-beef-(85%25-lean---15%25-fat)?portionid=41299&portionamount=0.250; http://www.chick-fil-a.com/Food/Menu-Detail/ChickfilA-Grilled-Nuggets#?details=ingredients; http://nutrition.mcdonalds.com/getnutrition/ingredientslist.pdf

d’s ’s Dave’s Hot ‘n

SOURCES: “The sweet truth about sugar” http://www.everydiet.org/1001/sugar-and-artifi cial-sugar-facts http://diabetes.webmd.co m/artifi cial-sweeteners-diabetespatients?page=2; http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/artifi cial-sweeteners/MY00073/NSECTIONGROUP=2 http://www.fi tday.com/fi tnessarticles/nutrition/healthy-eating/4-artifi cialsweeteners-their-fda-safe-levels.html#b; http://www.fi tday.com/fi tness-articles/nutrition/healthy-eating/4-artifi cial-sweetene rs-their-fda-safe-levels.html#b

SWEET TRUTH about sugar the

sugarVS.carbs

The

step is to understand carbohydrates.

Simple carbohydrates or simple sugars “are broken down and digested very quickly, but most simple carbs contain refined sugars and very few essential vitamins and minerals. Examples include table sugar, fruit juice, yogurt, honey, molasses, maple syrup, and brown sugar. “The complex carbs take longer to digest and are packed with fiber, vitamins, and minerals. Examples include vegetables, whole-grain breads, oatmeal, legumes, brown rice, and wheat pasta,” says Brian Calkins, author of The Power of Champions

According to Calkins, simple carbs and sugars give us a quick “boost” as they rush into our bloodstreams. This is known as the “sugar spike” that prompts the pancreas to produce more insulin in an effort to get the excess sugars out of our blood and into our cells. If the insulin does its job, you

also will soon feel like you need more fuel as your blood sugar level bottoms out, causing you to crave more simple sugars or carbs.

Complex carbs are the preferred source of energy, especially if you choose healthy complex carbs that have not been altered by food processing. Complex carbs break down very slowly into glucose molecules, which are then used or stored as glycogen for later use.

Complex carbs come in two types: starchy (brown rice, baked and sweet potatoes, oatmeal, brown pastas, and whole grains) and fibrous (asparagus, broccoli, cauliflower, onions, mushrooms, spinach, and peppers).

Avoid any carbs described as bleached, enriched, processed, or refined.

SOURCE: http://www.briancalkins.com/simplevscomplexcarb.htm

Naturally occurring carbohydrates are sugars that contain calories and raise blood sugar levels. Examples: brown sugar, cane sugar, confectioner’s sugar, fructose, honey, and molasses.

Stevia Rebaudiana is a new addition to the natural sweetener list. Stevia is a herb which grows wild as a small shrub in Paraguay and Brazil. The sweetness is found in the leaves. It is being touted as the greatest and latest new, natural sweetener. In its herbal state it is 10–15 times sweeter than sucrose and in its refined state it is 200–300 times sweeter.

Artificial lowcalorie sweeteners are created in a lab, have no calories, and do not raise your blood sugar levels. These are approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and have acceptable daily intakes (ADI). The American Diabetes Association also recommends the following four.

Aspartame

NutraSweet, Equal ADI=50mg per kilogram (18-19 cans of diet soda)

Chick-fil-A® Grilled Nuggets (6 piece)

Calories: 110 Total Fat: 1.5g

Carbs: 0g Protein: 25g

McDonalds Chicken McNuggets® (4 piece)

Calories: 190 Total Fat: 12g

Carbs: 12g Protein: 9g

Approved in 1965, aspartame is 180-200 times sweeter than sucrose. Aspartame is found in diet soft drinks, but is not recommended for cooking or

baking. It is low-calorie, but there are multiple studies of adverse health issues including risks to those with phenylketonuria (PKU) or migraines. Doctors warn against giving it to children.

Acesulfame-K

Sunett, Sweet One

ADI=15mg per kilogram (6 cans of diet soda)

Approved in 1967, acesulfame (potassium or K-) is 200 times sweeter than sucrose. Though there are no documented health risks, acesulfame can become acetoacetamine which has caused benign thyroid tumors in rats.

Saccharin

Sweet ‘n’ Low, Sugar Twin ADI=5mg per kilogram (9-12 packets of sweetener)

Discovered in 1879, Saccharin is 300-500 times sweeter than sucrose. It was linked to bladder tumors in rats in the 1970s, but later studies show saccharin metabolizes differently in humans so warning labels were removed in 2000.

Sucralose

Splenda

ADI=5mg per kilogram (six cans of diet drink)

Approved in 1976, it is 600 times sweeter than sucrose. Research shows that sucralose theoretically is not metabolized in the body, so it passes through.

first

CATCH & EAT! C

&HCTA !TAE

Order up these six at your favorite restaurant that are the safest and have the least contaminants.

Albacore tuna that is troll- or pole-caught from U.S. or British Columbia waters is the lowest in mercury and higher in omega-3. Look for the Marine Stewardship Council (MSC) blue eco-label.

Salmon that is wild-caught from Alaska is healthier (1,210mg of omega-3s per 2-ounce serving with the least contaminants).

Oysters that are farmed are better for you (over 300 mg of omega-3s), but beware that any raw shellfish may contain illness-causing bacteria.

Sardines wild-caught from the Pacific are tiny and inexpensive, but don’t let their size fool you! This little super-food packs 1,950 mg of omega-3s and is naturally high in vitamin D.

Rainbow trout farmed in U.S freshwater ponds are more protected from contaminants and fed better than their lake trout siblings.

Freshwater coho salmon that is tank-system-raised in the U.S. is the first-and-only farmed salmon to earn a super green rating and a 3-ounce serving has 1,025 mgs of omega-3s… but beware of all other farmed salmon.

OIL’S WELL that ends well

CATCH&RELEASE!C !ESAELER&HCTA

Cross

Bluefin tuna is so high in mercury and PCBs that it’s on the EDF’s “avoid” list and is also listed in 2010 as a threatened species by the World Wildlife Fund.

Chilean sea bass, also known as Patagonian toothfish, have been fished to near depletion and the harvesting methods have damaged fragile ocean floors, but it’s the EDF’s consumption advisory due to high mercury levels that should really cause you worry.

Grouper is also listed on the EDF’s consumption advisory because of high mercury levels, plus these huge fish are so slow to reproduce they are very vulnerable to overfishing.

Monkfish may be a tasty little menu item, but overfishing has depleted its numbers and also threatens all species that share its habitat.

Orange roughy lives so long that Seafood Watch warns that the fillet in your freezer could be older than your grandmother… but it’s the high mercury levels that have earned it an EDF health advisory.

Salmon, labeled farmed or Atlantic salmon, are raised in tightly packed opennet pens, given antibiotics, and have enough PCBs to earn an EDF health advisory.

Cooking oils—peanut, canola, olive, extra virgin olive oil, hydrogenated vegetable, corn… With so many choices of cooking oils, butter, and margarine, how do we really know which is the best product to use when preparing our food? The USDA Nutritive Value of Foods (Bulletin No. 72 found on the USDA website) is a valuable — and free — source of research-based information for healthy food choices.

The American Heart Association recommends no more than 2g of trans fat per day. Also note that the Food and Drug Administration guidelines allow manufacturers to list 0g trans fat if the product has less than 0.5g of trans fat… but those “hidden” half-grams of trans fats can add up quickly!

these off six your shopping list and tell your favorite restaurant to throw them back.

Make No Bones About It.

The BioPro® Living Hip Stem

Horizontal Platform Support Ho

Comprehensive Care:

People from all over the United States and countries around the world have come to Dr. Vrej Manoogian for total knee and hip replacement. He designed “The Living Hip”, a unique hip prosthesis which is unmatched in its ability to imitate the natural functions of the hip joint. The direct anterior approach, combined with “The Living Hip” prosthesis has provided a revolutionary treatment for patients with hip arthritis. Since opening his Mount Dora (near Orlando, Florida) bases practice in 2001, Dr. Manoogian has paid meticulous attention to the proper alignment and ligament balancing for his total knee replacements, giving his patients outstanding results. Dr. Manoogian is board certified and fellowship trained.

CRYSTAL CLEAR VISION

IS JUST

minutes away!

The LenSx® Laser – the latest in computer-guided precision for catarct surgery.

Cataracts can affect anyone of any age, especially people over 50. Left untreated, cataracts can cause blindness. Now, the experienced doctors of Lake Eye Associates can remove cataracts more quickly and safely than ever before, with little or no downtime.

As Lake County’s most advanced provider of cataract surgery, we are the 1st to offer the revolutionary LenSx® laser cataract surgery. This bladeless procedure is the most accurate cataract surgery system ever created, and our surgeons are the only area specialists to offer it.

We also utilize today’s finest procedures including ReSTOR ® and Toric ®, as well as TECNIS ® intraocular lens implants, which eliminate cataracts, vision problems and glare – even astigmatism – so effectively that 9 out of 10 patients can stop using glasses altogether, even at night.

Trusted professionals working hard to brighten your world

As board-certified Ophthalmologists, we share more than exceptional experience caring for a vast array of patients and performing countless thousands of cataract, refractive, ocular and laser surgeries—we and our friendly staff also share a commitment to making you feel comfortable and confident from the moment you walk in the door.

From routine eye exams to prescriptions to safe and effective eye surgeries, we are devoted to preventing, controlling and healing vision problems—including cataracts—so your world is as crisp, clear and bright as it can be.

Be enlightened. Call to schedule an appointment or visit us online to learn more.

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OPTIMUM LIFE

The key to AGING WELL is LIVING WELL

Optimum Life® is a bold new initiative that defines the way we live. By balancing six key dimensions of wellness – purposeful, emotional, physical, social, spiritual and intellectual – Optimum Life will help you live at your peak level, and within a lifestyle that promotes health, wholeness and fulfillment.

Learn more about Optimum Life by visiting any of the following Brookdale Senior Living® communities.

CHAMBREL PINECASTLE

Personalized Assisted Living (352) 368-7710

Assisted Living Facility # AL5397

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Your story continues here… www.brookdaleliving.com

TRX SUSPENSION TRAINING: MAKING YOUR BODY YOUR MACHINE

WRITER: JEFF ROMNES // PHOTOGRAPHER: FRED

LOPEZ

Traditional resistance training has followed the body builder’s approach of isolating muscle groups and lifting weights or using machines. It is an effective way to build muscle and increase strength. One of the limitations of this method, however, is that the exercises are typically two-dimensional and do not integrate multiple muscle groups and joint functionally as they might be used in sports or even daily activities. TRX Suspension Training uses a portable set of nylon straps that can be anchored to an overhead bar, ceiling mount, or even a strong tree branch. This system allows you to resistance train the entire body as a three-dimensional unit using bodyweight and gravity — making your body your machine.

Suspending your body from the TRX straps creates almost limitless variations in exercises that demand balance and core stability. To progress with each exercise you don’t need to change a weight, you simply change the center of gravity (increase the angle of your body in relation to the support while standing, or change your starting position relative to the anchor while lying) and/or purposely reduce stability (bring feet closer together or even stand on one foot, or use a single-hand only position).

To safely and effectively practice suspension training, you should get started with a certified TRX trainer or instructor who can show you how to adjust the straps and perform the exercises. Small group TRX classes are also available that combine this powerful new training device with the music and energy of group fitness.

TRX CHEST PRESS:

STEP 1: Fully lengthen the TRX straps and stand facing away from the anchor point.

STEP 2: Extend arms with palms facing down and elbows at chest height.

STEP 3: Feet at hip-width and weight on the balls of feet.

STEP 4: Lean forward slightly to take slack out of the straps.

STEP 5: Brace stomach and keep chest lifted with head, neck, and spine aligned.

STEP 6: Lower chest toward hands and bend elbows to 90 degrees.

ht.

STEP 7: Press back up as in a push-up while maintaining body alignment.

STEP 8: Starting with feet further back and body angle leaned toward floor increases intensity.

STEP 9: Narrowing stance or standing on one leg decreases stability and increases intensity.

TRX SINGLE-LEG SQUAT:

STEP 1: Set TRX straps at the mid-length tab and stand facing the anchor point.

STEP 2: Center working leg to anchor point.

STEP 3: With palms facing each other, lean slightly away from TRX to remove slack.

STEP 4: With weight on heel and knee slightly bent, extend opposite leg.

STEP 5: Drop tailbone toward floor and then drive up through the heel.

STEP 6: Knee of standing leg should not extend in front of toes.

STEP 7: Keep chest lifted, stomach braced, and head up throughout squat.

STEP 8: Decrease intensity by placing heel of the forward leg on ground.

STEP 9: Increase intensity with a slight hop at the top of the squat.

TRX ATOMIC PUSH-UP:

STEP 1: Set TRX straps to mid-calf length (roughly eight to 12 inches off the floor).

STEP 2: Place feet in foot cradles and kneel with suspended feet under anchor point.

STEP 3: With hands slightly wider than shoulders, extend arms to plank position.

STEP 4: Drop chest toward floor with elbows bending to 90 degrees at bottom.

STEP 5: Keep stomach braced and body straight, and do not allow hips to sag during pushup.

STEP 6: Press back up and bring knees toward chest while raising hips into a crunch.

STEP 7: Return to plank (push-up starting position) without rounding upper back.

STEP 8: Decrease intensity by dropping knees to floor during push-up.

STEP 9: Increase intensity by starting with suspended feet further away from the anchor point on the side of the body.

STEP 10: Increase intensity by raising hips higher over shoulders into pike position during crunch.

MODEL: Nicole McDaniel

EAT FIT/NOT FA

PANDA EXPRESS

Takeout Chinese food has been a staple in American society for a long time. Panda Express restaurants originated in California, and advertise that each restaurant cooks and sells only fresh food. While it can be easily agreed that Chinese food is tasty, there are a lot of avenues where salt, fat, and overall calories can creep up. As white rice is a popular side dish with Chinese food, brown rice is preferred if available. Brown rice is a less processed, more nutritious food choice.

BE AWARE

THE BEIJING BEEF (5.6 OUNCES), FRIED RICE (9.4 OUNCES), AND THE VEGGIE SPRING ROLLS (2 ROLLS) WOULD BRING YOUR DINING EXPERIENCE TO A GRAND

TOTAL OF:

1,380 calories

63 grams fat

560 calories from fat

12 grams saturated fat

215mg cholesterol

2,250mg sodium

161grams carbohydrates

9 grams fiber

30 grams sugar

42 grams protein

I included the portions as they are a bit excessive. No one should sit down and eat 9.4 ounces of rice. Since the fried rice contributed 530 calories alone, this side dish could easily be shared with a friend or two, or taken home for a later meal.

BETTER

COMBINING THE BBQ PORK (4.6 OUNCES), WITH STEAMED RICE (8.1OUNCES) AND HOT AND SOUR SOUP (10.6 OUNCES), WOULD MAKE A WISER CHOICE:

840 calories

23 grams fat

210 calories from fat

9 grams saturated fat

185 grams cholesterol

2,240mg sodium

111 grams carbohydrate

2 grams fiber

16 grams sugar

45 grams protein

While the portion sizes are improved slightly, the rice serving could still be cut in half. The soup is a nice low calorie addition; however, it packs in a lot of salt.

BEST

THE BEST ENTRÉE GOES TO THE BROCCOLI BEEF (5.4 OUNCES) DISH, WITH STEAMED RICE (8.1OUNCES), AND A SIDE OF MIXED VEGETABLES (4.3OUNCES)

PROVIDING:

535 calories

4 grams fat

35 calories from fat

0.5 grams saturated fat

10mg cholesterol

920mg sodium

106 grams carbohydrate

6 grams fiber

5 grams sugar

18 grams protein

The sodium is a bit higher than ideal, but the total calories and fat are significantly decreased.

TIPS: If you are watching your salt intake, avoid any extra soy or teriyaki sauces, or request the sauce on the side. As stated above, all of the rice servings are at least twice what would be recommended, so remember to share. The appetizers are going to add nearly 200 calories to your meal, so be aware of that as well.

WRITER: TABATHA ARCARO-ORTIZ, M.S., R.D., L.D/N.

INSIDE

CAFFEINE AND YOUR HEART

WRITER: RICHARD T. BOSSHARDT, M.D, FACS

The human heart is an underappreciated marvel. It flies below the radar beating an average of 70 times per minute, day after day. Each beat pumps about 70 cc of blood which means your entire body’s blood volume travels through your heart every minute. In an average lifetime of 75 years, your fist-size heart pumps a staggering 51 million gallons of blood!

It does all this without your conscious awareness until something changes. Things that can make you aware of your heart include changes in heart rate, such as from exercise or nervousness, pain from heart disease or certain viral illnesses, and disturbances in heart rhythm. The latter are clumped under the term arrhythmias, of which there are several types. Arrhythmias can often be felt by patients as what are described medically as palpitations. A palpitation is simply a conscious sense of your heartbeat. Because we are not accustomed to

feeling our hearts beat, this can be very uncomfortable, sometimes even frightening. Heart muscle has a unique property not seen in any other type of muscle — it has an intrinsic rhythm. Put a number of individual heart muscle cells in a tissue culture and soon they will all be contracting in unison. In the heart, contraction of the muscle must occur in a coordinated fashioned for effective pumping of blood. This is controlled by a very complex and precise network of electrical pathways that course over, and through the muscle. When these pathways are disrupted, irregular heart rhythms can occur. These can be rapid or slow, regular or irregular. They can arise in the atria, which are the small, less muscular chambers of the heart, or in the ventricles, which pump blood out to the body. In general, ventricular arrhythmias are more serious.

One of the most common arrhythmias is atrial fibrillation (AF). In this condition, the atrial muscle quivers in an uncoordinated

fashion as a result of misdirected, chaotic electrical signals. Because the atria are responsible for filling the ventricles, AF can reduce the output of the heart. This can result in lightheadedness, faintness, a rapid ventricular heartbeat, and even chest pain. One of the great dangers of AF is that it may allow for blood clots to form in the atria. These can be carried out of the heart and cause heart attacks and strokes. One of the common treatments for AF is to place patients on blood thinners to prevent this dreaded complication.

AF can occur from a variety of conditions — stress on the heart, tumors of heart muscle, inflammation, viral infection, medical conditions (obesity and diabetes make AF more likely), and more. One cause is the effect of stimulants. Alcohol, cocaine, and amphetamines, among others, can cause AF. One of the suspected causes has been caffeine.

Just about every known culture consumes caffeine in some fashion. After

water, coffee and tea are the most widely consumed drinks on the planet. A known stimulant, caffeine is therefore arguably the most widely taken “drug” in the world. In the U.S. coffee is more popular than tea and moderate consumption is regarded as around three cups per day. Many people drink more. Caffeine has many beneficial effects. It can increase mental alertness and improve performance in tasks requiring speed. It can increase exercise performance and decrease muscle fatigue. Caffeine causes blood vessels to constrict and can be effective in treating migraine headaches which are caused by expansion of blood vessels around the brain. One of the stimulant effects of caffeine is a rapid heart rate. This has caused the question to be raised as to whether caffeine consumption might make AF more likely in those who might be predisposed to this condition.

One very credible answer to this question came out of large study in Denmark

which was reported in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition in March 2005. The fact that this study involved 48,000 subjects gave it a great deal of credence.

Participants consumed anywhere from 2 to 10 cups of coffee per day. Over the length of the study, there was no correlation between caffeine consumption and risk of developing AF.

While this may be good news to coffee and tea drinkers, this is not the end of the story. It never is. While one to three cups of coffee may have positive effects, drinking three to six cups may cause restlessness, nervousness, insomnia, and tremors. Acute caffeine intoxication has been reported but is very uncommon, usually requiring extraordinary circumstances. The LD50 of a substance is a measure of the toxicity of that substance. It is the amount of exposure at which 50 percent of people would be expected

to die. The LD50 for caffeine is the equivalent of 50–200 cups of coffee in one day, not a very likely scenario.

In persons who have high blood pressure or pre-high blood pressure, intake of coffee or tea should be in moderation because caffeine has been shown to raise blood pressure several points. Studies have shown a correlation between drinking unfiltered coffee, for example coffee made using a French press or Turkish coffee, and mild to moderate rises in cholesterol levels in the blood. This should suggest caution in the type and amount of coffee consumed by those persons with heart disease or risk factors for heart disease.

In the final analysis, it appears you can continue enjoying your daily cup of “Joe” or your Starbucks caramel mocha latte cappuccino frappe, at $5 a pop. Just do it in moderation.

LOOK

THE PATH TO HAIR HAPPINESS

WRITER: KEVIN BOZADJIAN // PHOTO ILLUSTRATOR: ANTHONY CASTO

Agreat new haircut is an incredible source of inspiration because it reminds us of our potential, refocuses us on our goals, and points us toward prosperous futures. A new haircut makes us feel good, because it can be a fresh perspective and a new start. It feels good to cut away the past and get inspired to be our very best by looking our best.

But, like all sources of life affirming happiness, getting to the unbridled joy of a dramatic new haircut requires some bravery when you sit in the salon chair to conjure up that magical transformation.

Stylists take pride in helping clients get the look of their dreams and achieving the satisfaction of a fantastic cut. By far the best way to get the look you long for is to give your stylist what every good relationship thrives on: honesty, courage, and collaboration.

There are many styles, cuts, and colors at a stylist’s disposal that can give you a sexy, sassy, vibrant, or classy new look. What often leads to disappointment is when the vision a client has in mind doesn’t match what the stylist delivers. Stylists want to get it right, so share your vision with your stylist and help him (or her) deliver. If losing your bangs is like losing a piece of you, let your stylist know up front. Try bringing in a photo of a look you’d like to try. The more concrete you can make your request, the closer your stylist can come to achieving it. This approach leads to many smiles in the end for both the stylist and client.

At the same time, think about pushing the envelope and taking a bit of a risk. Getting your regular summer trim is good, but to truly feel great about your new haircut requires going on a bit of an adventure and allowing yourself to be surprised by the results. Don’t be afraid to try a look that you’ve been thinking about, but were hesitant because you’ve never gone so short, or you’ve never tried anything asymmetrical, etc. If you let your stylist know you are brave enough to take a bit of a risk, he or she can help reveal an exciting side of yourself you never knew you had.

The best way to get exactly what you want with an unexpected twist is to listen to the suggestions of your stylist. Use your desired style as a starting point for a collaborative give-and-take. Your stylist may use your suggestions as inspiration for something that has the overall look you were going for, but with a slight modification that works better with your hair texture or enhances your features.

Getting a haircut that makes you feel confident enough to conquer the world doesn’t have to be difficult. A sensational look can be a little thing that brings you great happiness.

RECIPE BODY

SAVORY PORTOBELLO MUSHROOM BURGERS

Yield: 4 burgers

Prep time: 15 minutes

Cook time: 10 minutes

Ready in: 35 minutes

Ingredients:

2 tablespoons olive oil

2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar

1 tablespoon Dijon mustard

2 cloves garlic, minced

½ teaspoon Worcestershire sauce (optional)

1 pinch salt and ground black pepper

4 large portobello mushrooms, stems removed

4 Kaiser rolls, split

Directions:

Preheat grill to medium-high heat and lightly oil the grate.

Whisk olive oil, balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Brush the mixture over the tops and bottoms of the mushrooms; let stand for 10 minutes.

Grill mushrooms on the preheated grill with the cover closed until mushrooms are browned and tender, about 10 minutes, turning once. Serve on Kaiser Rolls.

Nutrition Facts

Amount per serving

Calories: 188

Total fat 8.5 grams

Cholesterol 0mg

Recipe courtesy of Allrecipes.com. Submitted by Kerri.

(Mushrooms only) A 121-gram grilled portobello mushroom has 42 calories, is low in sodium (12mg) , and very low in saturated fat and cholesterol! SOURCE: http://nutritiondata.self.com/facts/vegetables-and-vegetable-products/9170/2

LEGACY M

THINK ABOUT IT

WRITER: TRACI BROSMAN

Do you consciously think about the Earth we live on? Do you consider that it will be the home for billions or even trillions of people in the future? Does your mind comprehend that many of the things you do leave a legacy that could live on for thousands of years? It is important that we become better stewards of our planet. Be mindful of the world around you and your impact on all those living things that share the Earth with you.

Here are some easy things that all of us can do to help make our carbon footprint a little smaller:

RECYCLE MORE — Recycling one aluminum can saves enough energy to run a TV for three hours or a 100 watt light bulb for 20 hours. Each ton of mixed paper that is recycled can save the energy equivalent to 185 gallons of gasoline. If everyone recycled their newspapers, we would save 250,000,000 trees each year. We throw away over 25 billion Styrofoam cups each year. Each month we throw away enough glass bottles to fill a skyscraper. A glass bottle takes over 4,000 years to decompose. Disposing a single quart of motor oil improperly can contaminate over 2,000,000 gallons of water. This year make a commitment to recycle more than you did last year.

USE RECYCLABLE BAGS WHEN SHOPPING — Plastic bags kill 1,000,000 sea creatures each year. If your plastic ends up in the landfill it will take over 1,000 years to decompose; plus, as they decompose they release chemicals into our land that contaminates our water supply.

USE FEWER PLASTIC BOTTLES — Use recyclable bottles for your water, but when you do use plastic, be sure to recycle. Right now 8 out of every 10 plastic bottles are not recycled. You can recycle most plastic bottles labeled PET #1 and HDPE #2 — 96 percent of all plastic bottles produced.

DON’T USE CHEMICALS IN YOUR YARD — There are other ways to take care of your yard without poisonous chemicals. A mixture of water and salt will kill weeds; use composted material

for fertilizer; kill mites with one quart of water, two tablespoons Tabasco sauce and one teaspoon dishwashing detergent; take care of aphids, white flies and spider mites with two liters of water and two tablespoons of dishwashing detergent.

REPLACE POISONOUS CLEANING PRODUCTS WITH NATURAL PRODUCTS — There are several products on the market to choose from. However, some simple solutions you can do yourself are: use baking soda to clean and deodorize; use lemon juice for bacteria; use white vinegar to cut grease or remove mildew and some stains; and use cornstarch to clean carpets and windows.

USE ENVIRONMENTALLY FRIENDLY LIGHT BULBS — They may initially be more expensive, but you will save money in the long run with lower electric bills, plus they will last longer. If we change to efficient LEDs we can cut 6 percent off our national electric consumption. It is estimated that you will save $30 over the lifespan of each compact fluorescent light bulb you install in your home or office.

COMPOSTING — 26 percent of our waste disposal each year is from food and yard waste. Using compost materials in your yard can reduce pests and plant disease; eliminate the need for chemical fertilizers; and provide healthier, higher yields for gardens.

ECO FRIENDLY LANDSCAPING — Our water supply is a huge concern right now in many parts of the world. Help use less water by having native plants in your landscaping; reduce turf grass; use solar paneled landscape lights; and have rain water sensors on sprinkler systems.

These tips are really quite simple if you just remember to:

• Recycle

• Use less chemicals

• Use less water

LAKE COUNTY RESIDENTS CAN RECYCLE THE FOLLOWING ITEMS IN THEIR CURBSIDE RECYCLING BINS:

• Newspapers: place loose in the bin; do not put in paper or plastic bags.

• Plastic beverage containers: remove lids and rinse.

• Clear, brown, and green glass: remove lids and rinse; labels do not need to be removed.

• Aluminum beverage cans: rinse.

• Steel (tin) cans: rinse, this includes food and pet food cans.

• Household batteries: place in clear plastic bag inside the bin.

• Cardboard: flatten corrugated moving boxes and place under the bin; flatten paperboard boxes (like cereal boxes) to fit inside the bin.

THE FOLLOWING CAN BE RECYCLED AT A DROP-OFF FACILITY:

Electronics and electronic waste: computers, CRT computer monitors, televisions, VCRs, fax machines, CD players, cell phones, telephones, stereos and televisions.

Lake County Landfill, 13130 County Landfill Road, Tavares

Monday–Saturday 7:30a.m.–5p.m. 352.343.3776

http://www.lakecountyfl.gov/ departments/public_works/ solid_waste/solid_waste_ programs/recycling.aspx

Lady Lake, 1200 Jackson Street

Tuesday and Saturday

7:30a.m.–5p.m. 352.753.2399

Astor, 54721 Astor Transfer Station Road

Tuesday and Saturday 7:30a.m.–5p.m. 352.759.2776

Paisley, 25014 Rancho Lane

Wednesday and Saturday

7:30a.m.–5p.m. 352.669.3430

Clermont, 10435 Log House Road

Wednesday and Saturday

7:30a.m.–5p.m. 352.394.5137

Pine Lakes, 32520 W. State Road 44, Deland

Thursday and Saturday

7:30a.m.–5p.m. 352.483.2079

SUMTER COUNTY DOES NOT PROVIDE CURBSIDE RECYCLING, BUT RECYCLABLES ARE ACCEPTED AT THE SOLID WASTE FACILITY.

There is no fee for recycling in the bins located south of the scale house, but items must be sorted.

THE FOLLOWING ITEMS ARE ACCEPTED FOR RECYCLING:

Cardboard, newspapers

Plastic milk, soda, and water containers

Aluminum and tin (steel) cans

Used motor oil

Automotive batteries and tires

Scrap metal

Sumter County Solid Waste Department 835 C.R. 529, Lake Panasoffkee 352.569.1975 or 352.569.6700

Tuesday–Saturday 8a.m.–4p.m. http://sumtercountyfl.gov/FAQ. aspx?QID=116

CARE

OVERCOMING APATHY

WRITER: TRACY DRAPER

Apathy: what a word. It is eerily similar to “pathetic.”

Whether the original Latin roots are synonymous or not, they do seem to go together, don’t they?

Apathy is described by Miriam-Webster as “lack of feeling or emotion.” We feel apathy at times toward a certain person, event, or social concern. Like it or not, we even feel it when it comes to exercise, don’t we?

Take a second look at the definition: “lack of feeling or emotion.” If emotion or feelings are absent, causing us to be apathetic, doesn’t it make sense that we can somehow create those feelings or emotions? Let me encourage you with a resounding, “Yes!”

Consider human behavior as a domino effect. Actions begin with a thought. Thoughts become feelings. Feelings become beliefs. Beliefs become actions. We act out what we believe. If I believe “I can wear size 8 jeans,” then I will do what it takes to make it happen. On the contrary, if I believe “I can never be a size 8” my actions will certainly bring it to fruition. If I think and therefore believe “I have always been lazy or out of shape or… (fill in your own blank),” then my actions will certainly live up to my beliefs.

The way to overcome apathy is as simple as changing your thought process! Self-efficacy is the belief in one’s self as being capable of success. In my experience as a personal trainer and

coach, most people who struggle with a lack of desire to exercise lack the belief that they can overcome the obstacles before them. Here are some check points to help you change your thinking:

• Believe that you can.

• Believe that you will.

• Build your self-confidence every time you succeed.

• Measure your successes.

• Do the hard work.

• Celebrate each victory — big or small.

• Be kind to yourself; speak the truth and shoot down negative self-talk.

Remember that feelings — like seasons — change. Feelings do not come to stay; they come to pass. Once you take charge of your feelings and do not allow your emotions to dictate your actions, you will find that you are able to indeed overcome apathy when it comes to exercise as well as other areas of your life.

“We must all suffer from one of two pains: the pain of discipline or the pain of regret. The difference is that discipline weighs ounces while regret weighs tons.”

— Jim Rohn

CHANGE

NEVER FORGET… LEARN

December

Sources: http://www.mi-card.com/nyc/valghentword.pdf; http://pearlharborpro.wordpress.com/2008/12/07/how-long-did-the-battle-la st/; http://nymag.com/news/articles/wtc/1year/numbers.htm; http://www. usnews.com/opinion/articles/2012/01/06/how-america-changed-after-pearl-harbor; http://www.pbs.org/newshour/rundown/2011/09/911to-now-ways-we-have-changed.html; http://www.globalsecurity.org/ military/ops/res-ng-callup.htm (Accessed August 9, 2012)

Eleven years have passed since the tragedy of 9/11 when — much like the 71 years since the December 7 attack on Pearl Harbor — our nation was shocked into the realization that the United States is not as indestructible or untouchable as we thought.

So what has changed in the United States?

Craig Shirley, author of December 1941: 31 Days that changed America and saved the world, says, [American’s] weren’t really thinking about war in the Pacific…. they weren’t thinking about their involvement in the war in Europe.” He writes that within a matter of hours of the attack on Pearl Harbor, the American attitude about war changed. “The war is not part of the culture; the war is the culture. Everything is viewed through the prism of the war effort,” says Shirley.

Instantly on 9/11 our focus turned to events unfolding in the Middle East because we could

no longer “not think about” how faraway lands and foreign citizens touched U.S. soil and our fellow countrymen. Shirley writes about how quickly in 1941 the U.S. became an “arsenal of democracy” and how industry responded by changing car factories into military aircraft assembly lines. “The outpouring from American people and the faith in their government and in their military and in their president, which was bipartisan, really did exist,” says Shirley.

After 9/11, President Bush responded by changing 50,000 “weekend warriors” from reservists into active duty soldiers.

What else changed after 9/11? According to PBS.org reporters Jason Villemez and Dalia Mortada, the United States changed the way we think about air travel, protecting our borders, immigration and tourism — and American Muslims.

Congress passed the Aviation and Transportation Security Act and formed the Transportation

September

Security Administration (TSA). Travelers began standing in line to be patted down, x-rayed, and searched. Fortified cockpit doors and federal officers with loaded guns were aboard commercial flights.

The Patriot Act and The Enhanced Border Security and Visa Entry Reform Act brought about the sharing of visa and immigrant data. The James Zadroga 0.11 Health and Compensation Act of 2010 supported Ground Zero workers. The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) consolidated agencies, including the Immigration and Naturalization Service. “The Coast Guard, TSA, and Border patrol budgets have all more than doubled since 2001,” says Villemez and Mortada.

Tourist travel both to and from the U.S. declined due to fear or increased scrutiny for visas or passports. Deportation was on the rise, with the DHS reporting, according to Villemez and Mortada, a 104

percent increase from 2001 to 2010.

Hate crimes also took on a whole new meaning when “anti-Islamic” and “American Muslims” became part of the vernacular of aggression.

So, how do we remember 9/11 and honor those lost on that day of terror? Just like for those lost at Pearl Harbor — we build monuments, offer prayers, and give monetary support. We change the way we think about people who are “different” from us. We did not repeat the atrocities of Japanese-American internment camps, so we did learn something about trying to balance fear and vigilance with humanity and sensibility. We must not simply record history and react to it, but we must learn from history.

We can only hope that the true lasting legacy of 9/11 is that we value life, freedom, individuality, and each other more — as we stay vigilant to protect our safety and the American way of life.

7, 1941: Pearl Harbor Began at 8:55a.m., lasted 120 minutes, approximately 2,400 lives lost.

11, 2001: New York, Pennsylvania, and Washington DC. Began at 8:45a.m., lasted 102 minutes, approximately 2,800 lives lost.

PHOTO ILLUSTRATOR: ANTHONY CASTO

SPIRIT

INNERVENTION // CHOICE // MENCOURAGEMENT

INNERVENT R SPIRIT

IGNORE ALL FRIEND REQUESTS FROM RAMSAY HUNT: HE IS A VIRUS

Happy four-month anniversary, Ramsay Hunt Syndrome. When we first met, you had my head spinning. You caused my left side to be in pain and drooping. And ignoring my severe vertigo, you have continued to kick me as I’ve fallen down, passed out, and had seizures.

You’ve robbed me of my independence (I still cannot drive), a job I loved, and my financial stability. You know what Mr. Hunt, the joke is on you! I may be down, but I’m not out! When this is over, I will re-emerge from this stronger, wiser, and even more thankful for the blessings in my life. Even blessings like this horrible illness. Without you I would have continued to have the priorities in my life misaligned.

So be warned Ramsay Hunt Syndrome, even though it has been roughly 120 days since you started “poking” me and “tagging” yourself in my photos, I am not a quitter and your days of being on my friends list are numbered. Sure, I may be able to defriend you and block you from my profile, but like any virus, I know you will remain in my body laying in wait for your next opportunity. After all, you started as the chicken pox virus when I was 8-years-old. You remained under cover until I was a 33-year-old, busy mother of three getting to do the job of my dreams.

I have come a long way from what I thought was an ear infection exactly four months ago today. I am realistic; I still have a long way to go to heal. I have accepted I will never be quite the same as a result of my “friend” Ramsay Hunt. Life is about change, so my voice will be a little different; I was tired of that squeaky twang any way (I’m now somewhere between Darth Vader and Swamp People) So my face is a little less symmetrical, that just gives me character. (Okay, I can’t lie — that bothers me a little — lol.) Every single medicine I’ve been on these last few months has had a weight-gain side effect, so I’ve been meaning to do something about my problem of being too short for my weight.

Ramsay Hunt Syndrome, you are so rare that 1 in 250,000 have the opportunity to house you as an unwanted guest. So I’ve decided to treat this illness as a right of passage I share with only an elite few. I could never explain how painful and complex this illness can be. I’ve been given what seems to be an extra acute case of this virus.

As strange as this might sound, just like the other painful life altering things I have been through, I wouldn’t change a thing!

I think it is our times of pain and struggle that make us who we are. I think the easy seasons of our lives are when we enjoy and shine due to the character traits molded by those dark times. I have a firm philosophy: Life is about peaks and valleys; you cannot fully appreciate the peaks unless you have gone through the valleys!

Update: After continuing to deal with much of the above, I was hospitalized with a relapse July 26, 2012. Let the character building begin again.

In Ramsay Hunt syndrome, a shingles infection caused by the chickenpox virus (varicella zoster) infects the facial nerve near the inner ear. The disease causes a painful shingles rash, facial paralysis, and hearing loss in the affected ear. The chickenpox virus lies dormant in the nerves and can reactivate years later.

• Corticosteroids, oral acyclovir, and valacyclovir are commonly used in the treatment of Ramsay Hunt syndrome.

• Symptoms may include a painful rash on the eardrum, earlobe, tongue, or roof of the mouth. Other common symptoms include hearing loss on one side, sensation of things spinning (vertigo), and weakness on one side of the face.

• To date, the largest study on Ramsay Hunt syndrome (Type 2) concluded that 75 percent of patients achieved complete recovery when treatment with prednisone and acyclovir is started within three days of facial paralysis.

• In severe cases, the disease can spread to nerves in the brain or spinal cord and require hospitalization.

• This disease has no known cause but seems to have a better prognosis when treated very early.

• It is estimated that Ramsay Hunt syndrome affects five people in every 100,000 each year.

To view extensive information concerning Ramsey Hunt Syndrome visit www.ramsayhunt.org.

WRITER: HEATHER RAGER // PHOTOGRAPHER: FRED LOPEZ // PHOTO ILLUSTRATOR: ANTHONY CASTO

SPIRIT CHOICE

FORGIVE… AND FORGET?

How would the grieving families in Aurora, Colorado, respond if James Holmes, the accused shooter, were set free? What if he said he was sorry; could he then be forgiven and released from all consequences?

Forgiveness is a challenging issue. Do nice people always forgive? When is forgiveness the right thing to do? When are consequences still appropriate?

A decent definition of forgiveness is “to release an offender from the victim’s right to revenge.” Thus, a starting place for understanding forgiveness is to recognize that those who have been offended do have a “right to revenge.” It is human nature to long for justice. We want the wrongs to be righted, for sins and penalties to be balanced on the scales of justice. When justice is denied, our spirits are unsettled.

Perhaps this longing for justice is not only human nature, but a reflection of God’s nature in humans. Many religions believe that good deeds must outweigh bad deeds in order to have a happy eternity. In Christianity, one cannot enter Heaven unless he asks for his sins to be paid for by Jesus’ sacrifice on the cross. Even in religion, someone always pays, and there is a deep need for justice to be served.

This need for justice is at the core of forgiveness.

Forgiveness which comes from emotional health, therefore, must start with the understanding that humans have a dignified right not to be sinned against and that justice is deserved when they are. Then, and only then, can one choose to forgive the debt and forgo justice for some higher principle. Giving forgiveness too easily is emotionally unhealthy. For example, telling someone you forgive them by saying “it wasn’t that bad,” “I don’t really mind,” or “it’s no big deal” is not really forgiving the debt, it is pretending that no debt is owed. Unhealthy forgiveness might also occur by devaluing the person injured, such as, “I deserved it,” or “they asked for it.” This unhealthy forgiveness creates more damage, adding insult to injury.

What guiding principles, then, would be even greater than the human right to justice?

REPENTANCE of the offender might elicit reversing the wheels of justice. If an offender admits his wrongdoing, acknowledges the pain caused to the victim, repays all debts, and makes life changes to avoid future transgressions, forgiveness is the appropriate response. Sometimes the debts to be paid also include natural consequences or penalties that the offender must bear. But forgiveness from the heart of the victim to the heart of the offender may still be granted in light of true repentance. The victim is called to forgive from his heart, to release his right to revenge and to give mercy instead. Without repentance, granting forgiveness to an offender is the voluntary gift of the victim.

LOVE for the offender might motivate the victim to suspend justice.

MERCY for the offender’s suffering might outweigh the desire for revenge.

GRATITUDE for one’s own forgiveness, granted by others or God, might also motivate someone to grant forgiveness Forgiving and forgetting is not actually possible. We do not forget our sufferings. We can, however, accept the fact that we have suffered, and we can let go of the ongoing pain of holding anger and bitterness in our hearts. Choosing to forgive, to let go of the drive to make an offender pay, allows the victim to live in the present with full joy.

FORGIVENESS is a choice to release our right to revenge and leave justice to natural consequences or eternal forces. Knowing that we have a right to justice, and then granting the gift of forgiveness because of a higher principle, is the mark of human nature elevated to its highest potential. Forgiveness is the greatest gift we can give to ourselves; it sets us free.

WRITER: TOVA J. KREPS, LCSW // PHOTO ILLUSTRATOR: ANTHONY CASTO

SPIRIT MENCOURAGEM

THE STRONGER SEX

As I opened the car door for my wife, helped her into the car, and then closed it behind her, I heard one of two younger women standing nearby say to the other, “Oh, how nice. I wish my boyfriend would do that for me.”

It got me to thinking about the state of affairs when it comes to male chivalry in today’s world.

My first thought was a memory from the early 1970s. At that point I had lived all of my life in the country and I wasn’t exactly what would be called a sophisticate. Most of the male crowd I now was running with at the University of Florida came from large cities and I felt out of place. They seemed to know so many things I didn’t and I struggled to come up to speed to be accepted.

We lived in a coed dorm at the university and one morning as four of us came to the entrance door there was a young woman walking just ahead of us. I moved past her politely to open the door for her to walk through. She looked at me with absolute hatred (and believe me, I exaggerate not) and said, “Go to hell!” I honestly didn’t know what to do. She then, not so politely, told me that she didn’t need anyone’s help to open a door. She stood there and refused to move.

and would still remember it if I brought it up today. So much for being one of the cool guys.

For years I struggled with how to treat women. Needless to say, I was reluctant to open doors for any woman but quickly found out it was usually safe if the woman was wearing a bra and her legs and armpits were shaved. Usually.

After a while I came to a place where I was comfortable. I now think I have an idea of what women want.

They want to be treated as equals in all respects, yet still be seen as special and deserving of our undivided attention. They want to be independent, yet look to us when times are tough for reassurance. They want to be strong, yet able to cry over a sad movie or the beauty of a sunset. They want the freedom to be seen, accepted, and respected for exactly who they are.

I get it. As men we have to look at women through two different sets of eyes… basically the same way they look at us. We have to see them first and foremost as human beings — equals in all ways — independent, strong, intelligent, and resourceful individuals fully capable of living life totally alone if need be. Then we have to look at them not as the weaker sex — because, truth be told, they are by far the stronger sex — but with the respect we would afford our closest and dearest friend… and don’t be afraid to open a door.

friends it was the funniest had seen for months

Now I wasn’t an idiot. I was well aware of the feminist movement, which was at its height at that time. So after several embarrassing seconds I simply said sorry and went in ahead of her. Of course my friends thought it was the funniest thing they had seen for months

“When a man opens a car door for his wife, it’s either a new car or a new wife.”

— Thomas C. Haliburton

MONEY

YOU’VE GOT QUESTIONS; WHO’S GOT ANSWER$?

WRITER: ELLEN B WILCOX, GEPC

Financial literacy is the latest topic of great concern to many financial advisors these days. The reason for this concern to me and my peers has much to do with how we truly want to help our clients, but it also has become the source for increased scrutiny by one of our primary self-regulatory organizations. The Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA) is a re-vamp of its predecessor the National Association of Securities Dealers (NASD). FINRA is the somewhat recently created organization that, along with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), now regulates the securities industry and all its registered affiliates.

FINRA is not a U.S. Government Agency, but a Self-Regulatory Organization (SRO) — much like the American Medical Association or the American Bar Association. FINRA exists to create rules, supervise its members, and discipline those members when occasion and conscience demand. In other words, FINRA is one of the supreme beings to which all in the securities industry adhere and answer.

Financial products and strategies abound in today’s investment world. Many of these products are complex and require a deep level of both research and acumen for the common guy- or gal-on-the-street to understand. Sadly, many financial advisors also do not understand the complexities, much less the advantages and disadvantages of some of these products.

I have been a financial advisor for more

than 30 years. In that time I have seen relatively simple investment products become more and more complex. Newer investment products have originated that nearly defy comprehension even for a seasoned professional. Each year I am obligated to complete many hours of continuing education. Although I can choose the way in which I meet this requirement, I nevertheless must complete courses in certain prescribed subjects. Many of the required courses center on regulations and FINRA is now contemplating requiring additional certification for some of the more complex products. If our own industry-

30 percent on a sweater that is on sale at the local department store. Most of us gain this knowledge through simple learning experiences presented in our early years by parents and school teachers.

Moving on to slightly more complex financial issues, it is necessary to understand such things as banking, mortgages, and home equity loans. Bankers and real estate agents can help us manage these hurdles.

When it comes to investing in our corporate-sponsored retirement plans and understanding employee stock option plans, we may also need the help of a licensed and experienced professional.

governing body is now requiring that we longtime, fully licensed professionals certify our knowledge before being permitted to introduce these complex products to our clients, what is available for John or Jane Q. Public to gain literacy in the same realm?

Financial literacy comes in many forms and on multiple levels. At its very basic, financial literacy means being able to handle money effectively, create a budget, pay bills on time, balance a check book, and understand how to calculate the savings of

During my many years of counseling individuals and small-business owners, I have taught classes and given seminars and lectures to clients, friends, and students on myriad subjects ranging from how to buy term life insurance to how to handle retirement dollars still sitting in a previous employer’s 401(k) plan. I have also taught daylong workshops at major U.S. corporations for retirees and pre-retirees.

I have found few such workshops available in the local area which are both comprehensive and generic in nature. Many such presentations are part of a “free lunch” sales pitch. (Buyer beware!) Even with comprehensive programs offered through churches, schools, and recreation centers, individual circumstances vary greatly and no single answer works for everyone.

In today’s world of information overload via the Internet, it would seem to be a simple

Ellen B Wilcox is a Graduate Estate Planning Consultant and a Registered Principal with, and offers securities through, LPL Fin ancial, Member FINRA/SIPC. Ms Wilcox is President and CEO of Wilcox Wealth Management, in Lady Lake, FL, which is not affi liated with LPL. She may be reached at Ellen@ellenwilcox.com or www.ellenwilcox.com.

The road to financial savvy is one to travel slowly and carefully.

task to Google for a quick and easy answer to almost any question, but this turns out to be easier said than done!

In preparing to write this article, I Googled “mutual fund.” From the results I got, I selected mutual fund definition, which took me to a page showing 7,860,000 entries! I chose the Wikipedia definition, since I already know what a mutual fund is, and I actually agreed with the words I was reading. I then perused a few of the remaining 7,859, 999 entries only to find that nearly all led to websites for specific mutual funds — basically a sales pitch for that fund or fund family — not exactly helpful for the novice investor.

Fascinated with this Internet experience, I took a major leap and Googled “annuities.” Wow! Another 64,700 entries. (I was surprised there were not more!) Relying on my previous successful adventure, I again selected Wikipedia for a definition. No surprise that it led me immediately to literally dozens of other websites all with — you

guessed it — various forms of a sales pitch for a particular sponsor or product.

I was too exhausted to Google “retirement plans,” so I gave up and instead tried to find the answer to a question posed last week by my very well-educated and very financially savvy neighbor. He wanted to know what assets can be garnished by the winner of a legal judgment. I tried multiple approaches, but got no clear answer. Then I had a brainstorm: I called my favorite legal beagle, a trusted attorney with whom I have worked for several years. That’s where I found the answer to my neighbor’s question… from the integrity and experienced voice of a professional!

I checked a bit further for classes, books, and websites — finding lots with great sounding names and descriptions. Classes can often be found through local schools, colleges, and recreation centers. Bookstores and online book vendors are truly loaded with a plethora of materials, many purporting to increase the reader’s

knowledge of all things financial.

As mentioned above, there are literally millions of websites available, and while many truly are a sales pitch, much information can be gleaned by the astute student. Many websites offer calculators, budget formats, and suggestions for debt consolidations. Beware of sites which offer such services for an up-front fee as they often turn out to be scams.

For those who want to gain true financial acumen, the goal is achievable through diligent research, not the least of which is simply the daily exposure to financial news in newspapers, magazines, and television programs. Wherever financial information is found, more is generally better than less. To get the most out of any classes — read, read, and, read some more! The road to financial savvy is one to travel slowly and carefully. The wise will navigate it best with a professional guide.

E

HYBRID FEVER

There has been an explosion in the number of hybrid cars and even SUVs that are available today. One major reason is because of the ever-increasing cost of fuel. Back when gas was $1 per gallon, no one really thought twice about whether a car got 15mpg or 30mpg because fuel was such a small percentage of the cost of ownership. As prices have steadily marched upward toward the $4 per gallon mark and beyond at times, fuel economy is becoming an important part of the car-buying decision.

There are essentially two types of hybrid buyers: people who want to go green and people who want to save some green. The former purchased hybrids back when they were only available as ugly ducklings and the financial benefits may not have outweighed the uncertainties of maintenance difficulties. Now that these two concerns have been addressed, there is a new group of potential buyers entering the market. They are the pragmatic, environmentally conscious consumers who would like to help reduce their carbon footprints, but only if they can also save some money.

So, how much can owning a hybrid save? It really depends on two key factors.

• How long you plan on owning the vehicle.

• How much and what type of driving you do.

First, the hybrid model is likely going

to cost more than its conventional counterpart. So the longer you own the vehicle, the more time there is to recoup that cost differential with fuel savings. Many people are often concerned that if they hold on to it too long, they will have to replace the expensive batteries to the tune of about $2,500. The good news is that studies have shown that unlike normal rechargeable batteries for your electronics, these vehicles use more sophisticated charging techniques enabling them to last for the life of the vehicle. Supporting this theory is a 2011 Consumer Reports study that examined a 2002 Toyota Prius with nine years and 206,000 miles under its belt. The study indicates there is “very little difference in performance” from their original tests back in 2001. These findings are further supported by a survey of 36,000 hybrid owners indicating only extremely rare battery fatigue problems.

Believe it or not though, the type of driving you do is the most important factor. Hybrids really make their money by using

Smith Barney LLC, Member SIPC, or its affiliates.

the torque of an electric motor to get the vehicle up to speed so the small gas engine can run in its most efficient range. Therefore, the more starting and stopping you do in your daily commute, the bigger the potential advantage of the hybrid. If all of your miles are on the interstate, your savings won’t be nearly as significant.

So, let’s finish it off with a side-by-side comparison of three versions of the 2012 Toyota Camry. We’ll assume 12,000 miles per year with a 50/50 split between city and highway driving. (See chart above)

With the performance of the hybrid (0–60 mph) better than the four-cylinder conventional version but a little less than the six-cylinder conventional, you could say that even without the fuel considerations, the hybrid could be considered to be priced attractively. But with a significant fuel savings over its sister vehicles, and with that gap increasing as fuel prices go up over time, there is certainly a compelling argument now for going green and saving some green in the process.

WRITER: CHRIS BRIDGES

Chris Bridges is a Financial Advisor with the Global Wealth Management Division of Morgan Stanley Smith Barney in The Villages, FL. Information contained herein has been obtained from sources considered to be reliable, but we do not guarantee their accuracy or completeness. The views expressed herein are those of the author and may not necessarily reflect the views of Morgan Stanley

ual Fuueel C Coost s ($ ($33.3381//ggaal) For illustrative purposes only.

SHOPPING

LABOR DAY DEALS

Labor Day is right around the corner. And while many people have the day off from work and school, you will not find them at home relaxing. Instead, you will find them at the mall and other local retail stores. Retailers across the country have turned Labor Day into a huge shopping holiday offering sales on everything from appliances to clothing to cars! Many people will be flocking to the local malls to cash in on all these great sales. Before you head out the door, here are some tips to help you get great deals without overspending.

SET A BUDGET. Before you begin to research the Labor Day sales at your favorite stores, figure out how much you can afford to spend. Just because hundreds of retailers are offering sales, does not mean we need to rush out and spend money if it is not in our budgets. It can be very easy to become carried away when we see all of the advertisements. So, before you even open the sale ads, decide how much you can afford to spend.

MAKE A LIST. Once you have set your budget, make a list of what you plan to buy. Are you looking to redecorate the house or maybe it is time to spruce up your wardrobe? It is a good idea to make a list before opening the sale ads. Decide what you need first! You will save in the long run. When we make a list, we are much less likely to make impulse buys.

SAVE MORE WITH COUPONS. Be sure to search online and in your local newspaper for coupons to bring along on your shopping trip. Many stores will allow you to use coupons on top of the store sales and clearances to help you save even more.

CHECK ONLINE SALES. Online sales can be just as hot as in-store sales. Sometimes online sales are better. Look for free shipping codes and cash back on sites like www.shopathome.com.

PAY IN CASH. If you are heading out to shop, bring cash and leave your credit cards at home. We tend to spend a lot less when we pay with cash.

COUPONERS UNITED will also have a list of all the local and online deals to make your shopping easy. You can find it at www.couponersunited.com/ laborday2012.

WRITER: MARY EDWARDS // PHOTO ILLUSTRATOR: ANTHONY CASTO

The first Labor Day was celebrated on Tuesday, September 5, 1882 in New York City as a part of the Central Labor Union.

Tired of hiding your legs in the shadows and walking clouded in the darkness of leg pain? It’s time for you to do something… time to start really living in the Sunshine State!

Walking on sunshine

“What can I expect from these old legs? It is simply a part of aging.”

This is a common assertion from people who endure constant leg pain or cramps when walking, numb feet or toes, ulcers that do not heal, and color changes in the legs or feet. But, does it not have to be this way?

Often these symptoms are the result of peripheral artery disease (PAD), which is a narrowing and hardening of the arteries in the lower extremities due to plaque build-up. According to the American Heart Association, this disease affects nearly 8 million Americans. If left untreated, PAD can lead to heart attack, stroke, gangrene, high blood pressure, erectile dysfunction and limb loss.

When patients visit The Florida Leg and Vein Center of Excellence, in affiliation with Florida Heart and Vascular Center, they are putting themselves in capable hands. Throughout the years, Dr. David C. Lew, M.D., FACS, FSCAI and his talented team of cardiologists have provided countless PAD patients with superior delivery of care, safe and rapid interventions, and excellent outcomes.

“Many people with PAD experience leg pain (claudication) when they walk, and once they stop walking the pain disappears,” Dr. Lew says. “It is caused by a reduction in the amount of blood that flows to the legs. Diabetics and smokers are at high risk as well as those who suffer high cholesterol, hypertension, or have a family history of heart disease.”

Florida Heart and Vascular Center’s state-of-the-art cardiac catheterization lab plays a key role in the diagnosis and treatment of peripheral artery disease. The lab is equipped with advanced technology, including digital imaging systems that allow the medical team to see the workings of the arteries with extraordinary clarity.

To determine whether a patient has PAD, Dr. Lew performs an anklebrachial index (ABI), described as a painless procedure that compares blood pressure in the feet with

the blood pressure in the arms. From there, he utilizes computer tomography angiogram (CTA), magnetic resonance angiogram (MRA), or an invasive angiogram to determine which arteries are blocked, the severity of the blockages, and the condition of vessels surrounding the blockage.

Several minimally invasive treatment options are available, depending on the severity of the condition. Angioplasty involves inflating a balloon-tipped tube at the site of the blocked artery to compress the plaque and widen the artery. The disease can also be treated with a stent, which is a small metal-mesh tube that is placed at the blocked site to prop the artery open, maintaining adequate blood flow. The cardiologists also utilize atherectomy, which removes plaque deposits in patients whose arteries are heavily calcified.

Dr. Lew says patients with peripheral artery disease frequently develop coronary artery disease.

Fortunately, he and Dr. Sanjeev Bhatta, Dr. Kevin Williams, and Dr. Leonard Victores are experienced in treating both diseases. Therefore, patients receive a continuum of treatment under one roof with cardiologists they are comfortable with and trust.

“It is an advantage for patients because we know their medical histories and what medications they are taking,” Dr. Lew says.

So, what can I expect from these old legs? How about more years of walking on sunshine and enjoying life? PAD does not have to be part of your aging process with a treatment plan that is right for you.

FLORIDA LEG & VEIN CENTER OF EXCELLENCE

In affiliation with Florida Heart & Vascular Center

“Our main focus is in treating patients with advanced PAD and prevention of amputation.”

Patrick K. Williams MD Jose Rosado MD, FACC David Lew MD, FACC, FSCAI

Sanjeev Bhatta MD, FACC

Leonardo Victores MD Ilie T. Barb MD

Lake Center of H.O.P.E.

SEPTEMBER 2012 6

A Taste of “Simply Sumter”

Experience what makes dining and shopping special in Sumter County. Distinctive local restaurants will serve samples of signature dishes. Enjoy entertainment and browse displays from boutiques and specialty shops. Proceeds fund chamber scholarships for graduating seniors at local high schools. Event will be held at Continental Country Club in Wildwood from 5:30–8p.m. Call 352.793.3099 or visit www.sumterchamber.org for more information.

2012 Central Florida Duathlon

8

This is the final event in a series of four duathlons in Clermont. The course consists of a one-mile run followed by a 10-mile bike course, which travels clockwise around Lake Minneola followed by a 2.5-mile loop within Clermont. The final segment is a three-mile run that starts on the residential streets of Clermont, followed by out-and-back segments on the South Lake Trail. The race begins at Waterfront Park, 330 Third Street in Clermont at 7:30a.m. Registration fee varies by time of registration. Call 352.394.1320 or email info2012@sommersports.com for information.

Chili Cook-Off

Come by Gator Harley for some real “FUN” raising. Chili cook-off registration is $25 (limited to first 30 paid). Join us from 10a.m.–3p.m. Cook on site. Registration information and complete rules and regulations are online, or call 352.787.8050. This event benefits the Professional Fire Fighter’s Association of Lake County. 1745 U.S. Highway 441 in Leesburg.

15 Monster Challenges

Monster Challenges is an adventure mud and obstacle event. The course is over four miles of grueling and unique challenges: mud, water, overs, and unders. This event only happens in Central Florida, which allows us to continually increase the thrill and this one is going to freak you out! A portion of the proceeds will benefit DreamCatcher Horse Ranch and Rescue. Event is held at Arnold Groves (behind Showcase of Citrus), 15000 Frank Jarrell Road in Clermont from 9a.m.–1p.m. Cost is $78 through September 8. Call 352.267.4511 or email Deby@monsterchallenges.com for more details.

Eighth Annual Florida Cracker Ball

Buy your tickets for a great night of music, food, auctions, and a whole lot of fun as we celebrate Florida history! Mark B. McHugh, the CEO of Gatorland, will be the guest speaker at the event. All proceeds benefit the Thomas E. Langley Medical Foundation. Event will be held at the Sumter County Fair Grounds September 15 at 6p.m. Tickets are $90 or $150 for a couple. Call 352.793.5900 x2971 for more information.

19 Square Foot Gardening

This one hour long introduction to All New Square Foot Gardening will include the foundations, fundamentals, and techniques of the method created by Mel Bartholomew. The class will

be taught by Steve Earls of SFG Supply in Eustis. Earls is certified by the Square Foot Gardening Foundation. Event will take place at the Tavares Civic Center, 100 E. Caroline Street in Tavares at 3p.m. Call 352.742.6204 or email rrosario@tavares.org for more information.

LSCC Athletics Golf Classic

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Come support the LSCC athletic programs and enjoy a wonderful day on the links. Shotgun start at 8:30a.m. at Arlington Ridge Golf Club. For information about the different packages, contact Rosanne Brandenburg at 352.365.3518 or brandenbr@lscc.edu or Mike Matulia at 352.323.3645 or matuliam@lscc.edu.

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Equine and Wine

Mark your calendars for this delicious event to benefit the DreamCatcher Horse Ranch Rescue Center! The Palm Tree Grill, 351 North Donnelly Street in Mount Dora is hosting this evening of food, networking, wine, and a silent auction from 6–8p.m. Tickets are $35 per person. For reservations, call 352.735.1936. For more information on the DreamCatcher Horse Ranch, visit www. dreamchatcherhorses.com or call 407.702.8332.

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Inter-Tribal Native American Holiday Pow-Wow (September 28, 29, 30)

Bring the whole family and spend the day! The Grand Entry will be Friday at 6p.m., Saturday at 1p.m. and 6p.m., and Sunday at 1p.m. Native crafts, singing and dancing, story telling, and native food will be available at the Dade Battlefield Historic State Park, Hwy 476 in Bushnell. Admission is $3 per person. Friday 10a.m.–9p.m.; Saturday 10a.m.–9p.m.; Sunday 10a.m.–5p.m. This is a “family friendly” event. For more information, contact Bruce Whiting at 352.793.4781 or Chief “Red Eagle” Howard Oxendine at 352.793.515.

Wings and Wildflowers Festival (September 28-30)

Avid birders and others wishing to learn about local birds, wildflowers, and natural areas should attend the inaugural Wings and Wildflowers Festival. The event is being held at Hickory Point in Tavares. Unique birding and wildflower programs will feature acclaimed speakers, authors, and birding and native plant experts. James Currie, host of the popular NBC show Birding Adventures, is the festival’s keynote speaker. For more information, call 352.429.4755.

12 Case Manager Symposium (October 12–13)

Register now for this two-day symposium for case managers being held at the Mission Inn. Nurses and LCSWs can earn continuing education units (CEUs), network with other professionals, and participate in team building opportunities. Registration includes continental breakfast, lunch, and conference materials: $50 Friday only, $125 both days, $75 Saturday only. All proceeds will benefit the Dwight M. Cearley Endowment Fund for Families Challenged by Memory and Movement Disorders. For more information about registration, contact Amy Cearley at 352.342.2554 or amycearley68@aol.com.

352.383.4554

LAKE EMS TOP 5 QUESTIONS

Much like late night talk shows, Lake EMS is often asked to provide answers to thought-provoking questions. The following are the top five most commonly asked questions posed by the citizens of Lake County:

1. WHEN SHOULD I CALL 9-1-1?

At first glance, this question seems simple to answer. 9-1-1 is an easy to remember phone number to request immediate assistance with an urgent law enforcement, fire, or medical issue. Speaking medically, this issue becomes much more complex depending upon one’s own definition of urgent and other available resources. Ambulances are designed to bring expertly trained medical professionals quickly to the location of the emergency, and to begin potentially life-saving treatments immediately. Taken from our popular website (www.whentocall911.com): “Make the right call. If it is potentially life-threatening or you are in doubt, don’t guess… call 9-1-1.”

2. WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN AN EMT AND PARAMEDIC?

Many people categorize ambulance personnel as “ambulance drivers” or “EMTs.” Just like in other healthcare professions, pre-hospital personnel are trained and licensed by the State of Florida Department of Health to provide different levels of care. Each ambulance at Lake EMS is minimally staffed with one EMT and one paramedic. An EMT receives 240 hours of training (4 months) to assess and treat patients at the basic level that includes interventions like first aid or CPR. A paramedic must become an EMT first, then complete an additional 1100 hours of training (13 months) to assess and treat patients at an advanced level. Treatments include medical procedures such as IV insertion, medication administration, airways adjuncts (endotracheal intubation, cricothyrotomy), defibrillation (electrical therapy for the heart), and induced hypothermia post cardiac arrest.

3. WHAT THINGS MIGHT I DO TO PREPARE BEFORE I MAY NEED TO CALL 9-1-1?

Knowing your address and telephone number is the most important first step, something you should teach all pre-kindergarten children. Other important preparatory steps include an information sheet containing medical history, current medications, allergies, physician(s) name(s), and emergency contact information. Other paperwork may include an advanced directive, also known as a DNRO (do-not-resuscitate-order), driver’s license, and insurance cards.

4. DO I NEED TO TAKE MY MEDICATIONS WITH ME TO THE HOSPITAL? Medications are an important part of a patient’s medical history and many times alert a paramedic to possible causes of the present emergency or complications when a patient is unable to communicate. It is not necessary to take medication bottles to the hospital unless an overdose is suspected. Medication lists are acceptable as they are compact and generally easy to read, provided the list contains pertinent information that includes medication name, dosage and frequency.

5. WHY SHOULD AN INDIVIDUAL COMPLETE A DO-NOTRESUSCITATE-ORDER (DNRO) IF HE OR SHE ALREADY HAS A LIVING WILL?

A living will is a document that instructs, as specifically as possible, what care and treatment the person wishes under certain circumstances. Any competent person can fill out a living will at any time. A DNRO is a physician’s order to withhold or withdraw resuscitation if a patient goes into cardiac or pulmonary arrest. It is part of the prescribed medical treatment plan and must have a physician’s signature. It is usually written for patients who are terminally ill, suffering from an end-stage condition, or who are in a persistent vegetative state. For more information visit the Florida Department of Health: http://www.doh.state.fl.us/demo/trauma/ DNRO.html

STEPS TO A CURE

The Mid-Florida Chapter of the National Multiple Sclerosis Society held its annual Walk MS event at The Villages Polo Field. Walkers of all abilities and ages put on their walking shoes and joined the festive atmosphere. Walk MS is one of the organization’s largest fundraisers, raising $473,330 in 2011. The money helps support cutting-edge research, facilitates professional education, and provides programs and services to help people with multiple sclerosis move forward in their lives.

1. Dorothy Giese and Dennis Bach

2. Sharon Goldberg and Peggy Dumont

3. Lori Yoder and Gene Ladik

4. Jamie DiLeo, Jessica Jarvis, and Jamie and Donny Lemoine

5. Meagan Puchala, Erika Griffin, Michelle Croft, Christine Cook, and Chrissy Grant

6. Gail Simonetti, Rita Diette, and Max

7. Lisa French, Ken Jensen, Bob Diette, and Patty Whilegy

PHOTOGRAPHER: MELISSA MARBURY

“FORE” A GOOD CAUSE

Those in the business and medical communities dusted off their golf clubs and enjoyed a wonderful day at El Campeon Golf Course at Mission Inn and Resort. The 4th annual Docs Care Best Ball Scramble benefitted We Care of Lake County. We Care coordinates free specialty medical care for uninsured adults living in Lake County who meet certain financial guidelines. This is possible through a growing number of volunteer physicians.

1. Greg Salter and Tricia Guido

2. Angie Tester, Cindy Baker, and Susan Korem

3. Justin Williams, Dale Williams, James Ball, and Dennis Williams

4. Amy Jensen and Vera Renfro

5. Marcello Farela, Eric Roukey, Ryan Langley, and Scott Genzek

PHOTOGRAPHER: HEATHER TOOTLE

HORSIN’ AROUND

DreamCatcher Horse Ranch and Rescue Center held its annual fundraising event, EggStravaganza. The event included a silent auction, pony rides, games, horse-riding demonstrations, and a tour of the facility. In addition, attendees had an opportunity to meet the rescued horses. The silent auction featured tickets, passes, and gift certificates to Central Florida attractions, restaurants, and sporting events.

1. Rose Stack with “Autumn”

2. Helena Burrer with “Chuckie”

3. Justice Gill, Shannon Chiles, Gage Rutledge with “Sonny”

4. Tom Stolzenberger

5. Millie Clay with “Buttercup”

6. Patrick Bingham

7. Sophia Beecham

PHOTOGRAPHER: MORGAN ELLIS

SOMETHING FISHY GOING ON

The 16th annual Leesburg Spring Fish Fry was held under the oak trees at the Mote-Morris House. Visitors enjoyed tasty food such as fresh fried fish, cheese grits, corn-on-the-cob, steamed oysters, collard greens, coleslaw, and Key lime pie. They also enjoyed the sounds of Eustis-based band M.T. Pawketts.

PHOTOGRAPHERS: AUBREY AKERS AND SHAENA CHASTAIN

1. Mike Stephens

2. Taylor Cavender

3. Mitch Daly and Linda Joy

4. Sydney Glenn and David Przystawski

5. Cobe and Jason Smalley

6. Rob and Stephanie Hicks

7. Walter and Suzanne Zielinski

Life Continues at Mission Oaks Where Every Moment is a Celebration

Living is not just assisted at Mission Oaks, it is genuinely enhanced.

Our new community provides a true sense of camaraderie that encourages active lives, active minds and healthy spirits.

• Spacious one-bedroom and studio apartments

• Restaurant-style dining

• Library, activity room, ice cream parlor, movie theater, beauty and barber shop, whirlpool spas, screened lanais

• Assistance with daily needs and medications

• Chauffeured transportation to scheduled medical appointments

• Emergency pendant system

• Alzheimer’s/dementia care

Mission Oaks is a private pay, rental community.

Mission oakS

HEALTHY VIEWS