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*Patient and any other person responsible for payment has a right to refuse to pay, cancel payment, or be reimbursed for payment for any other service, examination, or treatment that is performed as a result of and within 72 hrs of responding to ad for the free, discounted fee, or reduced fee service, examination, or treatment. 8630 East CR 466, The www.IMAGELIFT.comVillages Liz had ImageLift, Laser, and filler treatments. Results are typical and do vary. Kathy had a Laser ImageLift. Results are typical and do vary. Katie had ImageLift, Laser, and filler treatments. Results are typical and do vary. YOU INVITED!ARE BROWNWOOD HOTEL Thursday, September 22nd @ 2pm 3003 Brownwood Blvd. WATERFRONT INN Thursday, September 8th @ 2 pm 1105 Lake Shore Drive CALL NOW TO RESERVE A SEAT 352.227.1501 UPCOMINGSEMINARS EXCLUSIVE SEMINAR PRICING Receive one area of FREE wrinkle relaxer when completing an in-office or seminar consultation. (NEW PATIENTS ONLY)
SEP'22 V.18 ≈ N.12 1 of 2 FEATURES CONTENTS 038 Nutrition for the noggin We already know healthy eating leads to slim waistlines. However, certain foods also provide a much-needed boost in brainpower. STORY: CYNTHIA MCFARLAND 042 Feeding bellies and hearts Community gardens are the perfect setting for cultivating fruits and vegetables, growing friendships, and allowing giving spirits to bloom. STORY: ROXANNE BROWN 049 Ask the Heath Expert SPECIAL PROMOTIONAL FEATURE Local health care professionals give it their best shot at answering questions pertaining to medicine, health, and wellness. 032 Beefi ng up the meat industry Through a concept called regenerative farming, the Groveland-based company Tribal Acres sells meat with no antibiotics and no hormones. STORY: JAMES COMBS
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Design: Megan Mericle Photo: Nicole Hamel On the Cover: AOI columns FROM THE PUBLISHER 014 FINAL THOUGHT 112 2 DEPARTMENTS CONTENTS SEP’22 V.18 ≈ N.12 ONCOVERTHE GROWING? FROM the popularity FRESH FROM THE FARM HEALTHASKTHEEXPERT Lake and Sumter Style Village Edition Design: Shawnee Coppola Photo: Nicole Hamel On the Cover: Vitas Healthcare first 021 THE HIT LIST 022 PERSON OF INTEREST 024 OUTSTANDING STUDENT 026 MEET A VILLAGER 028 agenda 073 TO-DO LIST 074 LOCAL TALENT 077 ATTRACTIONS 078 BOOK CLUB 080 HI, SOCIETY 082 menu 097 IN THE KITCHEN 098 FORK ON THE ROAD 102 DINING GUIDE 104 healthyliving 089 INSPIRATION 090 HEALTHY BODY 092 022 098074112 078 092 026 077 EXPERTHEALTHASKTHE How’s Freshgrowing?itfrom 012 / LAKEANDSUMTER STYLE .COM SEP'22
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s we put away our bathing suits, ip ops, and sunscreen, there’s something else we must put away. Extra pounds. For me, that’s much easier said than done. I tend to develop bad habits this time of First,year.collegefootballkicks o in September. I love my Miami Hurricanes. I also love munching on chicken wings and chips and chasing them down with ice-cold beer while I’m watching the ’Canes on television. That’s certainly a recipe for Thanksgiving,defeat. my favorite meal of the year, rolls around in November. Speaking of rolls, I prefer mine with extra butter. They go so well with a plate lled with roasted turkey, mashed potatoes, homemade dressing, and apple pie. With any luck, I won’t gobble ’til I wobble. Next comes my favorite holiday, Christmas. December is always challenging. After all, cookies and eggnog are as plentiful as Christmas carols during this time of year. With that, hearty eaters can probably relate to this amended lyric: “On the 12th day of Christmas my mirror said to me … Avoid going back for seconds.” As I “weigh” what’s ahead of me, it’s clear I only have one choice. I must make better choices when it comes to eating. When watching my beloved Hurricanes, I’ll blow o pounds by replacing chicken wings with cauli ower and low-fat dip. During Thanksgiving, I’ll give thanks to a healthy plate of lean turkey and fat-free gravy. For Christmas, I’ll deck the kitchen with fruits and vegetables. I truly believe that food is medicine and the formula is simple: Eliminate bad food, consume good food, and a world of magic happens. If I stick to my plan, I won’t have to make lofty and unattainable New Year’s resolutions. I’ll already be a healthy version of myself.
LAKE CENTRE HOME CARE LONG-TERM CARE INSURANCE ACCEPTED PRIVATE PAY ACCEPTED LOCALLY OWNED AND OPERATED PRIVATE DUTY Home Care Services 310 Market St., Leesburg Phone: 352.315.0050 | Fax: 352.315.0059 golchc.com | HHA299992424 • Companionship • Light Housekeeping • Meal Preparation • Light Laundry • toTransportationMDAppointments • Assist with Pet Care • Medication Reminders • Bathing and Dressing • Safety in the Home • Errands and ShoppingFive-StarQualityRated CEO, Shayna Grunewald and COO, Lori Davis are pleased to announce the addition of Andrea Bittner Smart as Director of Private Duty “Andrea joins our powerful team with over 20 years of home health experience. By adding a Private Duty Division, Lake Centre Home Care is expanding our services and increasing our level of care.” The Private Duty Division will be accepting clients soon! NOW OFFERS Servicing Lake, Sumter & Marion Counties We believe that seniors thrive in their own home environment. Our qualified staff can provide assistance with the following services:
There’s no easy answer, because tumor growth is hard to predict. Discuss your risks with your doctor.
Early-stage disease usually has no symptoms, but they can show up later. Symptoms include having to pee more often, especially at night, or straining to empty your bladder; blood in your urine or seminal fluid; new onset of erectile dysfunction; discomfort or pain when sitting (caused by an enlarged prostate); or, less commonly, pain or burning during urination. Other symptoms can occur if cancer has spread beyond the prostate gland. Should you get screened if you have no symptoms?
Currently, Medicare provides coverage for an annual PSA test for all Medicare-eligible men age 50 and older. Many private insurers also cover PSA screening.
PROMOTIONAL FEATURE
Prostatitis (inflammation of the prostate)
An elevated PSA reading does not necessarily mean cancer is present. Elevated PSA readings can also mean:
A prostate biopsy or prostate surgery can also cause elevated readings. Your doctor may recommend another PSA test to confirm the original finding, as well as continued monitoring.
“P rostate cancers tend to grow slowly. Some tumors never become a problem, but this is not always the case. One monitoring tool is a blood test for prostate-specific antigen, or PSA. PSA is released into the bloodstream from cells in the prostate, a walnut-sized gland that makes seminal fl uid for carrying sperm. Elevated PSA levels can mean cancer is present. Ejaculation can temporarily increase PSA, so avoid it before any PSA test. A digital rectal exam is also used to check for prostate cancer.
WhenCancer:ProstateShouldYouTest? 016 / LAKEANDSUMTER STYLE .COM SEP'22
PAID
Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH, or enlargement of the Urinaryprostate)tractinfection (UTI)
If Your PSA is Elevated
Like us on TheoncologyPatient-centeredFacebookradiationclosetohomeVillages 352.259.2200 Ocala 352.732.0277 Timber Ridge 352.861.2400 Inverness 352.726.3400 Lecanto 352.527.0106 RBOI.com What to Do Diagnosis?After
What does prostate cancer have to do with Hereditary Breast and Ovarian Cancer (HBOC) Syndrome? HBOC Syndrome relates to genetic mutations, especially in the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes. Those mutations can mean a higher risk of getting a number of cancers, including prostate cancer. For example, a BRCA2 gene mutation can increase your chance of getting prostate cancer by 20%. Risk factors include multiple HBOC Syndrome cancers on the same side of your family, a male relative diagnosed with breast cancer, and Ashkenazi Jewish ancestry. Talk to your doctor about getting genetically tested if you think you may be at risk. Regular screening for prostate cancer, along with genetic counseling, is recommended if you test positive for mutations. Other genetic risks of getting prostate cancer include familial prostate cancer (about 20% of cases) and hereditary prostate cancer (about 5% of cases).
12.6%
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RBOI’s support services are available to the community free of charge, from before diagnosis through treatment and afterward, regardless of where you are being treated. Give us a call.
by the#5numbers
Chance of a man developing prostate cancer during his lifetime
Prostate cancer is the fifth leading cause of cancer death in the US 14%
Treatment options for prostate cancer include: Monitoring only, especially for early stage, slow-growing prostate cancer Surgery and/or radiation therapy (external beam or brachytherapy, the insertion of radioactive seeds) Hormone therapy (androgen deprivation therapy or ADT), especially if the tumor is large or cancer is more likely to return Chemotherapy or immunotherapy if prostate cancer no longer responds to ADT Side effects may include incontinence, bone pain and weakness, and sexual problems, but these can often be prevented or managed.
ASyndrome:HBOCHigherRisk
Percentage of all new cancer cases that are prostate cancer 268,490 Estimated new prostate cancer cases in 2022
If you are frustrated with the level of service at your current bank, USB can help. We are a community bank that believes in community and customer service. Give us a call or drop by one of our 12 convenient branch locations. Our team of lenders can’t wait to meet you! Local and Loyal Since 1937 Mike Stephens SVP, Commercial Lender NMLS#514775 352.669.2121 UNITEDSOUTHERNBANK.COM SWITCH TO USB! Lender left you hanging? Ultimate Contract Cleaning is now using a breakthrough commercial cleaning process with the EMist Disinfectant Spray technology. This powerful, efficient cleaning system uses an electrostatic sprayer, that administers an even coating application that spans across hard-to-reach areas typically not touched by manual application. WHEN CLEAN JUST ISN’T CLEAN ENOUGH. PROUDLY PROVIDING OVER 30-YEARS OF: SAFER ENVIRONMENTS / SANITIZED SPACES HEALTHIER PEOPLE / PEACE OF MIND FOR A CLEANING CONSULTATION, PLEASE CONTACT US TODAY AT 352.753.8653 PROUD MEMBER OF: FREE ESTIMATES / LICENSED & ULTIMATECONTRACTCLEANING.COMINSUREDDANUCC@AOL.COM 018 / LAKEANDSUMTER STYLE .COM SEP'22
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PEOPLE. COMMENTARY. NEWS. first Soar in a seaplane. Drive a catboat. Lake County’s new tourism marketing manager, Jenn Clutts, aims to spread the message about the county’s abundance of fun-filled activities.
THE WORKERS HAVE IT: While enjoying a little rest and relaxation on Labor Day (Sept. 5), don’t forget to contemplate the many contributions and achievements of American workers. According to history.com, Labor Day was created by the labor movement in the late 19th century and became a federal holiday in 1894. The day also symbolizes the end of the summer for many Americans, and is celebrated with parties, cookouts, street parades, athletic events, and more.
FISHING HISTORY:FORLake County is known for its stellar shing. Therefore, it should come as no surprise that the largest channel cat sh in Florida’s history was caught at Big Lake Blu , a private lake in Mascotte. Joe Purvis caught the 44.50-pound cat sh in May 1985. likely to read pro ciently by third grade, achieve in middle school and graduate from high school.” Tips to help motivate students, being touted by way of the district’s “R.E.A.L.” campaign, and spread across social media platforms using #SchoolEveryDay, include: Build Routines, Increase Engagement, Provide Access to resources, and Support Learning.
THE HIT LIST
MAKING THE GRADE: The Florida Department of Education released school grades for the 2021-‘22 school year. Lake County remains a “B” school district, representing a commitment to steady academic growth and improvement, according to Superintendent Diane Kornegay. She is equally proud of the achievement because students and sta spent reboundingmonthsfrom the coronavirus pandemic.
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UP CLOSE AND PERSONAL: If you haven’t already seen it, check out the newest mural in downtown Leesburg at the intersection of W. Main Street and 2nd Street on Water Gypsy Co ee’s outer wall. The mural featuring two alligators taking a swim was painted by Leesburg artist Nicki Forde. Though not recommended in real life, people in this case, are invited to take sel es with the reptiles. To see more of Nicki’s artwork, visit drawingonmyheart.com or Instagram @nickiforde.
SIMPLY A-MAZE-ING: There are activities your children can enjoy other than the hottest video game on the market; like nding their way through a corn eld maze. Scott’s Maze Adventures at Long and Scott Farms opens October 1, but owners encourage everyone to book in advance for group reservations.
PIG ON THE POND RETURNS: Mark your calendars and get your tastebuds ready for the return of the Pig on the Pond community festival on Oct. 14-16 at Waterfront Park, 330 3rd St., Clermont. The annual festival – back from a temporary hiatus – debuted more than 20 years ago with delicious barbecue as its focus, plus live entertainment, carnival rides, food, a kids zone, and more. Pig on the Pond bene ts Project Scholars, a nonpro t organization that provides educational scholarships and support to local students. For more information, visit pigonthepond.org.
NEVER FORGET: Sept. 11 marks 21 years since the deadliest attack on U.S. soil. Look for remembrance ceremonies in cities throughout Lake and Sumter counties, including the City of Clermont’s annual program on Sept. 11 from 2-4pm at Clermont’s Arts and Recreation Center (3700 S. Hwy. 27). The event honors the 2,977 people who died that day. Among them are passengers aboard two planes that hit the World Trade Centers and one plane that hit the Pentagon, the Flight 93 passengers who bravely attempted to overpower hijackers, and many rst responders killed during rescue e orts. The event also honors survivors who continue su ering from physical and mental health problems.
OLE!: Hispanic Heritage Month – a time to appreciate and celebrate the colorful cultures, rich histories, and diversity of the American Latino community – is observed annually from September 15 to October 15. You can celebrate by listening to a Spanish artist or song, taking a Zumba class, or eating at one of dozens of ‘muy delicioso’ Spanish restaurants spread throughout Lake and Sumter counties.
SHAPE OF THE UNION: Of Florida’s 67 counties, Lake was ranked as the 26th-healthiest county according to a 2022 report released by County Health Rankings and Roadmaps. The report considers factors such as length of life, adult obesity, physical inactivity, and air pollution. Neighboring Sumter County ranked 29th.
The opportunity to learn, relax, be active, compete, explore, grow or simply an opportunity to call it home. You could be enjoying a weekend on the lake and see a world-champion wakeboarder go by, then drive a few minutes down the road and see Olympic Medal-winning track athletes training. The people and businesses that have found their opportunities in Lake County inspire me to share their stories with others and nd opportunity of my own.
My major duties will be: I’m excited to help implement a new brand for our o ce, create marketing campaigns, lead travel media tours, inform visitors and locals on how our o ce can support them, and most importantly, highlight the unique places and businesses we have.
• Age 26 • Resides in Clermont • UCF graduate in Communications and Writing & Rhetoric • Former coordinatorcommunicationsfortheCityof Clermont • Former on-campus recruiting assistant for UCF Football PEOPLE
INTERVIEWER AND PHOTO: CINDY PETERSON Last August, I was ranked first in the U.S. and second in the world for the 2021 logged Concept2 indoor rowing machines 5,000-meter time. I’ve since been dethroned.
VITALSTATS 024 / LAKEANDSUMTER STYLE .COM SEP'22
I describe myself as: Committed. I value setting goals and committing to them. Whether it be professional or personal, I feel it’s important to follow through on commitments to the best of your ability no matter how long they take. My greatest achievement: I earned a basketball scholarship and played two years in college. Then I started rowing with Lake County Rowing Association in 2020. Just a year later, a teammate and I won second place racing as a pair at the Head of the Hooch in Chattanooga, which in the world of rowing (especially as a novice), is an accomplishment.
What I love about Lake County:
I look up to: My parents. I think they are pretty extraordinary people, and they’ve set a good example for me. I’m thankful for their willingness and support in letting me make my own choices, even when they knew some might be mistakes.
PERSON OF INTEREST Know a person of interest? Tell us! Email your recommendation to editorial@akersmediagroup.com A fun fact:
In my new position, I hope to bring: With all new sta in the tourism o ce, I hope to bring a local perspective. I’m from Tavares and spent most of my life in the northern Lake area. I hope to share my passion for Lake County and encourage people to visit.
Jenn Clutts Lake County’s new tourism marketing manager promises fresh approach to drawing people in with help from all new staff and her go-getter attitude.
If I could have one superpower, it would be: Extreme knowledge, because then I could help solve all the world’s problems.
• Santa Fe College freshman • Mount Dora High graduate • Has shown steer, pigs, chickens and rabbits in livestock competitions
Topping my playlist: Anything by Morgan Wallen. I admire: My mom. She works hard to provide for my sister and I, and I will always see her as the most hard-working person in my life. Go-to restaurant: De nitely Chipotle! I always get a steak bowl with chips and guacamole. My message to the world: Don’t look at a bad situation as something to push you back, but use whatever that situation is to learn and grow from it.
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My greatest accomplishment: During my time in FFA I have earned many awards and accomplished much, but I’d say my top award would be earning my FFA State Degree, which is only earned by 1% of FFA members across the nation. I have competed in the FFA dairy evaluation team competition and moved onto the state level, placing 6th in the state as a team. I am now working on getting my American degree, which is only earned by less than of 1% of FFA members.
Know an outstanding student? Fill us in! Email your recommendations to editorial@akersmediagroup.com
PEOPLE SAMI ZUBOWICZ
FFA champion gallops toward career helping animals.
I want everyone to know that: I love animals, I love helping my community, I always want everyone that I meet to feel welcome, and I always work hard at everything I do.
A saying or mantra I live by: Always look at every bad situation as a lesson. My greatest quality: Probably my work ethic. My future plans are: To attend Santa Fe College, study Animal Science, and then transfer to the University of Florida and attend their vet school.
OUTSTANDING STUDENT
Favorite movie: Mamma Mia!, because I love to travel and that movie is based in Greece. I just love the overall vibes that the movie gives o .
INTERVIEWER AND PHOTO: CINDY PETERSON
FORMERSAMIVITALSTATSISTHEFFAPRESIDENT
Flying high Villages centenarian Barbara Hinebaugh soaring through life.
• In 2021, she received the Order of the Delta Gamma Rose award by members of Delta Gamma, a sorority she joined in 1939.
Favorite president: I like Ronald Reagan and Donald Trump equally. They’re both cut from the same cloth because they worked hard for the country and for the people. My legacy: I think people will remember me as someone who spent a lifetime helping others.
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• Moved to Lake County in 1944 and has resided in The Villages since 2001. Life as a pilot: to y in a cow pasture in Ohio. After earning my pilot’s license, I ended up being a pilot for the Civil Air Patrol from 1941 to 1945 during World War II. That required me to y a single-engine Luscombe over the Great Lakes to spot enemy isupbecauseone.Fortunately,submarines.IneversawIenjoyedyingonceyougetintheairtheworldallyours.
Community service and activism: In 1960, I joined the community campaign to build a hospital in Leesburg. I also project. However, the home was eventually built. In the workplace: At 48, I began a career with New York Life. Few women succeeded in the insurance industry at that time. By 1970, I was recognized as one of the company’s top 500 agents out of 9,500. I retired in October 2021 and think about the future rather than the past. with being 102. My greatest quality: I’m someone who perseveres.
• Barbara turned 102 in August.
Know an interesting Villager? Fill us in! Email your recommendations to james@akersmediagroup.com MEET A VILLAGER
INTERVIEWER: JAMES COMBS VITALSTATS
checking Accounts Membership is open to anyone in Alachua, Marion, Lake, and Sumter counties.2 1. Credit approval and initial $50 opening deposit required. Member must elect to receive eDocuments. 2. Credit approval and initial $5 deposit required. Insured by the NCUA. READY, SET, GO! Open an account at campuscu.com/star-powered Call 352-237-9060 and press 5 Curbside Service available – Visit us at Summerfield 17450 SE 109th Terrace Road | Grand Traverse 2945 Traverse Trail
reportingonlinesystem Citizen www.lcso.org CRIMINAL MISCHIEF DAMAGED FRAUDTHEFTLOSTHARASSINGPROPERTYPHONECALLSPROPERTY OPEN YOUR Dreams IN HISTORIC DOWNTOWN LEESBURG! Looking to start your own business? Affordable retail and professional space available for immediate move-in. All impact fees are waived within the redevelopment district on existing buildings. View current available properties on our leesburgpartnership.comwebsite!ELLEN BRUCE Owner of Ellen’s Cafe on 3rd We love being in downtown Leesburg because of the amazing community we have gotten to know that supports us. ” “ Ellen’s Café On 3rd 110 S. 3rd Street, Leesburg, FL 352.630.1313 | www.ellenscafeon3rd.comellenbruce574@gmail.com 030 / LAKEANDSUMTER STYLE .COM SEP'22
RiversMedicineFamily patientsOurareourprimaryfocus. NEW LOCATION NOW OPEN IN BROWNWOOD L-R: DR. JULIO UGARTE, DR. STEVEN RIVERS, DR. ERIN DARIANO, DR. ANTHONY DESMARAIS 1503 Buenos Aires Blvd., Bldg. 110, The Villages 2771 Brownwood Blvd., The RiversFamilyMedicine.comVillages office: 352.205.4302 | fax: 352.430.0468 PulmonaryChronicElectrocardiogramsEchocardiogramsServices:UltrasoundCareManagementFunctionTestingJointInjectionsSkinBiopsiesMinorSkinProceduresImmunizationsAt Rivers compassionateknowledgeable,experienced,weMedicine,Familyprovideandcaretohelpyoumeetyourindividualhealthcaregoals. TheProudlyservingVillages®areasince2004!
STORY: JAMES COMBS PHOTOS: NICOLE HAMEL 032 / LAKEANDSUMTER STYLE .COM SEP'22
As rst-generation farmers, Brandon, Joel, and Courtney have cultivated a di erent way of farming by subscribing to a less-is-more theory. The less they disturb the soil, the more they’ll boost soil health. The less synthetic chemicals they spray, the more nutritious the food. The less they keep animals penned up, the healthier they’ll be. These strategies are all part of regenerative farming, which promotes healthier ecosystems by rebuilding soil matter through holistic farming and grazing techniques. This approach vastly deviates from massive-scale industrial farming, which has been practiced for decades and has eroded soil through aggressive tilling and abundant chemical usage.
porting blue jeans, boots, and hats, Brandon Bailey, Joel Bailey, and Courtney Walker look out over their vast 140-acre farm. One alpaca and a herd of brown and black cows graze in the eld. A symphony of animal sounds lls the air. Cow moos. Pig oinks. Chicken clucks. There’s an occasional bark from two full-blooded Anatolian shepherds that keep out unwanted two-legged and fourlegged intruders.
At Tribal Acres, located o State Road 33 on the Leesburg-Groveland border, cows, chickens, ducks, turkeys, and lambs are raised for meat
But their farm, which they started two years ago and named Tribal Acres, doesn’t quite t the pro le traditionally associated with the American farm. Noticeably missing are tall silos, tractors with large tillers, or planes swooping low to unleash giant clouds of pesticide.
The Tribal Acres Family
“None of our meats have hormones or antibiotics,” Brandon says. “Look at younger kids who are between 8 and 10 years old. They look like they’re 16 to 18 years old. Pumping hormones into an animal makes the animal grow faster so money can be made quicker. When we consume those hormones and antibiotics in our meat, it’s making us age quicker, it’s making our immune systems weaker, and it’s a ecting our digestive system.
The company operates a food truck that frequently appears at festivals throughout Central Florida selling items with grass-fed beef, pasture-raised poultry, and forested pork.
The farm is never sprayed with pesticides, herbicides, or fertilizer— all of which deplete soil health. Eliminating tilling keeps nutrients and moisture in the ground and allows soil to maintain its structure. Permitting cattle and other animals to graze on the farm is bene cial because their manure becomes a natural fertilizer, helping to restore the soil ecosystem.
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WANT TO DO WHAT’S RIGHT FOR THE ANIMALS, THE ENVIRONMENT, AND THE PEOPLE WE SELL OUR PRODUCTS TO.” —BRANDON BAILEY
That all starts with soil, which is treated like the valuable, living ecosystem that it is. After all, soil determines the health of everything that’s grown in and on it. Plus, enhancing soil health, Brandon says, can help remedy issues facing society, namely overuse of chemical fertilizers, land degradation, and lack of proper “There’snutrition.nowayto have healthy animals and plants without having healthy soil,” Brandon says.
“WE
“Most farmers raise cattle on grain for an entire year,” Brandon says. “Feeding them solely on grain a ects a cow’sThehealth.”sameconcept applies to chickens, which, on the Tribal Acres farm, are kept outside in chicken tractors. This allows them to see sunlight, experience grass beneath their feet, and gladly gobble up natural diets of worms and insects. Conversely, chickens raised in overcrowded production houses never see sunlight and are pumped full of grains that make them fat and eventually unable to support their weight. Pigs are also given free rein to roam the pastureland and consume acorns, grasses, and bugs. It’s important to give them ample space to play, Brandon says. Most pigs raised commercially are con ned to small indoor spaces with concrete oors lled with manure. It’s a simple formula, really. The best life for animals makes the best meat for Tribal Acres’ customers.
A steady line of customers ock to the food truck when it’s parked on the corner of U.S. Hwy. 441 and Wolf Branch Road in Mount Dora every morning, Monday through Friday. One of them is Amber Larose, a schoolteacher who showed up on a recent July morning. She carefully scanned the menu of breakfast and lunch items with catchy farm names such as “Barnyard Bagels,” the “Hay One Burger,” the “Nutty Porker,” and the ever-popular “Cowboy Cup,” a three-layer dish of macaroni and cheese, pulled chicken or beef, and coleslaw on top. She ultimately chose the Sunrise Cowboy Cup, a biscuit topped with homemade forested pork gravy.
production.
“We want to do what’s right for the animals, the environment, and the people we sell our products to,” Brandon says. “We want to provide our community with a healthy option and keep farming as natural as possible.”
Nobody who has tried our meat complains about those problems. That’s because of how natural our meat is being raised.” Their natural meats and food products can be purchased without driving to the farm. They typically attend between 10-17 farmer’s markets each week. In addition, they operate a food truck called “Open Pastures Family Restaurant by Tribal Acres,” which rolls into festivals and events throughout Central Florida. They also drop meat o at the homes of customers who are enrolled in Tribal Acres’ “Cooler Club.”
In addition to improving soil health, regenerative farming techniques help them produce high-quality meat rich in nutrients while o ering their livestock a high quality of life. That means going against the grain—literally—in how they choose to raise cows. Instead of feeding grain to cattle, they allow bovine to roam for a short period of time on a small area of land before they are moved to another area. The grass consumed by cows is free of chemical sprays.
“Being a diabetic, I can tell the di erence in the quality of food that comes from Tribal Acres,” she says. “It’s quality, farm-fresh food you can’t get at a grocery store. I’ve also visited the farm and know how passionate they are about taking care of the land and raising healthy food. And I love their story of how the farm gotThatstarted.”story began in 2019 when Brandon purchased a pot-bellied pig named Pua. When the mischievous pig started escaping, Brandon built a pen for his new pet. Then he purchased 11 chickens. He used wood from a dilapidated gazebo to construct a coop for his feathered friends. Next came an emu. And then two cows and more chickens. Then came an epiphany.
Courtney Walker, Joel Bailey, and Brandon Bailey
Maria Trabue, of Mount Dora, is a member of the Cooler Club who has meat, eggs, cheese, and dessert delivered to her home. Other times, she orders pre-made meals, saving her the hassle of grocery shopping.
“Since school is out, I come here every morning and don’t mind making the drive from Mount Dora to Leesburg,” she says. “The food is delicious, and the owners have gotten to know me on a personal level.”
“I fell in love with being outdoors and being around animals,” he says. “I told my friends we should start a Theyfarm.”divvied up money and purchased the land that is now Tribal Acres. Lots of blood, sweat, and tears have gone into the farm, but it certainly hasn’t been a one-man show. Brandon recruited his brother, Joel, to assist him, as well as close friends who have served alongside him for years in a traveling ministry to preach the gospel: Courtney Walker, Nika Roberts, Nita Cobb, Gwen Basarab, Zach Allen, and DavidThoughYoung.most are not blood related, they consider themselves a family unit. Nita is the mother gure who earned the nickname “Momma Tribal.” She makes pickles, jams, and sauces that are sold at farmer’s markets. “We refer to our family as a tribe, hence the name Tribal Acres,” Joel says. “We feel that family isn’t always blood. It’s who is always there and who is with each other and loyal to the end. Some of us came up in homes where our parents were separated. So we’ve always been there for each other and created close bonds. We’ve experienced every milestone in our livesSincetogether.”starting the farm,
ontradeAndbackbreaking,ontheirOfisfoundmissionaries-turned-farmersthehavethatcultivatinghealthyfoodasenjoyableascultivatingfaith.course,theyreadilyadmitthatspiritualfaithcomesinhandysomedays.Afterall,farmingisdirty,detailedwork.therearenoguarantees.ButCourtneywouldn’tprofessions.“BeingabletowakeupandworkthebeautifullandGodhasblessed
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Fruits and veggies deliver ber.
“We want to ‘eat the rainbow.’ Each meal should have two to three di erent food groups,” she says. “Everyone should have at least two to three servings each of fruits and vegetables at every meal.”
≈
STORY: CYNTHIA MCFARLAND PHOTOS: NICOLE HAMEL
our state of mind is in uenced by what’s happening in your gut. In other words, what you eat and drink impacts your focus, short-term memory, motivation, even the ability to solve math“Whenproblems.peopleare dealing with imbalance in the gut, it a ects the brain indirectly, and poor diet often causes imbalances in the gut,” says Katie Gravante, a clinical nutritionist at Total Nutrition & Therapeutics in Lady Lake.
“You want to eat 25 to 30 grams of ber a day found in whole grains, fruits and vegetables. Eat the edible skins in pears, apples, and potatoes, because Local experts weigh in on foods that boost brain health.
GOING GREEN Balanced nutrition is key. A common mistake is not eating enough fruits and vegetables, notes UF/IFAS Extension Lake County Family & Consumer Science Agent Lori Johnson, MS, RD, LD/N.
FEED YOUR BRAIN 038 / LAKEANDSUMTER STYLE .COM SEP'22
Trans fats — commonly found in processed and fried foods — aren’t good for your brain. Hint: they aren’t in whole foods. (“Whole” means food in its natural state that hasn’t been changed or “Hydrogenatedprocessed.) oil,” listed on the label of countless food products, is a transBrainfat.function is enhanced by healthy fats, such as those contained in avocados, olive oil, nuts and seeds.
STEER CLEAR “When you take out things that are unhealthy – like processed foods, trans fats and sugary foods – it makes a huge di erence in how your body responds to blood sugar stabilization, energy level and focus in general,” says Katie. Processed foods and drinks not only spike blood sugar, but they can trigger in Withammation.thatin mind, make soda a rarity and steer clear of diet versions.
THESE FOODS SERVE AS BUILDING BLOCKS TO INCREASE THE ACTIVITY OF NEUROTRANSMITTERS. • Eggs • Avocado • Broccoli • Beet greens • Spinach • GreensCollard • Swiss Chard • sproutsBrussels • Tomatoes • potatoesSweet • squashSummer • Chickpeas • Black beans • Quinoa • Lentils • Salmon • Tuna • Sardines • Lamb • Chicken • Turkey • Beef • seedsPumpkin • seedsSesame • Walnuts • Almonds • Cashews • chocolateDark Katie Gravante, Clinical Nutritionist Lori
this is where a lot of the ber is,” JohnsonBecausesays.ber helps your gut, it contributes to brain health. To enhance focus and motivation, Lori and Katie recommend dopaminerich foods like fatty sh, lamb, chicken, turkey, beef, eggs, lentils, nuts, pumpkin and sesame seeds, broccoli, spinach and green tea. Spices such as turmeric, sa ron, peppermint and cinnamon also support mental health and focus. Try using spices instead of salt to avor“Everyonefood. is trying to make their dollars stretch as far as they can right now,” adds Lori. “Food is the best medicine, so focus on getting your nutrients from good food sources rather than “Supplementssupplements.”arejustan addon,” says Katie. “You have to clean up your diet.” AVOID BAD FATS
“It’s not just about drinking plain water, you need quality electrolytes to truly hydrate. At least two glasses of water each day should include electrolytes without arti cial sweeteners,” adds Katie, who recommends unsweetened coconut water diluted with plain water.
DON’T FORGET H2O
“Studies have shown that the aspartame in diet soda is directly linked to brain atrophy and cancer in general,” notes Katie.
Your brain simply cannot function properly if you’re not adequately hydrated. After all, it consists of more than 85 percent water. Upgrading your diet includes drinking enough H2O. The average American drinks less than 32 ounces of water a day. That won’t cut it for brain health. Brain fog, trouble focusing, fuzzy short-term memory, lack of mental clarity, depression and emotional instability are just a few symptoms of Youdehydration.don’thave to be slogging across the Sahara to experience such symptoms. Studies reveal that just being one percent dehydrated can result in a ve percent decline in cognitive function.
For those who dislike water, Lori advises avoring it with fruits and spices for 12 to 24 hours
Your brain depends on specialized signaling chemicals that have a host of responsibilities. These important Johnson,
A general rule of thumb is to drink at least half your body weight in ounces of water per day. For example, a 130-pound woman would need a minimum of 65 ounces of water daily.
MS, RD, LD/N
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“This might be life or death one day; people growing food because they don’t have food. This is an amazing thing we get to o er our kids and it’s an Local leaders hope community gardens inspire fruitful harvests and down-to earth-connections.
STORY: ROXANNE BROWN ≈ PHOTOS: NICOLE HAMEL
Cheryl O’Rourke
heryl keepprojectsparticipationencouragesLakeGirlsofserviceO’Rourke,directortheBoysandClubofSouthinClermont,activeintonotonlystudentsinterested in the subject at hand, but to demonstrate how hard work can really pay o .
gardening in mind because, at some point, it could become a necessity.
“It makes a big di erence when they are planting the seeds, watching their garden grow, picking their vegetables, and even though they are saying ‘Ooh, I don’t like that, I don’t want that,’ they’re more inclined to at least try it out of sheer excitement,” Cheryl adds. Cheryl said the children reaped much more than fruits and vegetables from the project. They harvested a sense of pride, felt they were making a di erence, and growsexcitedknowsomethingaccomplishedtheydidn’ttheycould.That’swhyCherylistoseeifgardeningonolderchildren when she introduces Boys and Girls Club members to an aeroponic garden tower she acquired and to the future community garden the City of Clermont is building in the club’s“It’sbackyard.uptousto enrich our kids with every teachable moment that comes through, whether it’s growing things in a garden or taking the trash out in a sustainable way where our kids are helping be part of the solution and making a di erence,” Cheryl says. “It comes back to career development, healthy lifestyles, it’sCherylBoysallandcommunityeducation,leadership,beinggoodcitizens,mainfocusesoftheandGirlsClub,”says,addingthatimportanttoalsokeep
In fact, before moving to Florida ve years ago, she was the director of a daycare in Pennsylvania, which is where she rst dabbled in gardening to teach her preschoolers about food, sustainability, andCherylcommunity.saysthe kids became quite fond of gardening, and together they grew corn, peppers, cucumbers, squash, tomatoes and more, and all in 65-gallon totes she lined up on the outside patio and rigged with plastic water bottles to help with aeration and drainage. They even tried foods they may have never tried otherwise.
Suzanne O’Shea is excited about the community garden project the City of Clermont embarked on after The Clermont Arts and Recreation Center won a $90,000 grant to build the garden on their property. This will be the city’s second community garden project. The rst was on South Lake Hospital’s campus, though it was not as big or elaborate as what’s to come. The grant Clermont received is one of two awards that came out of a Niagara Bottling and the National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA) contest called “Perk your Park” in September 2021. The contest focused on park and community space revitalization across the country. With the grant funds, the city now has the means for something even moreSuzannespecial.says many city residents have expressed interest in getting involved with the community garden and are looking forward to renting a gardening bed.
“This project is all about us providing the space that they—the community—can utilize best and that is a ordable for them, especially if they don’t have green space, or if their apartment doesn’t have the ability to build or buy a bed,” Suzanne says. The .3-acre garden will initially have 29 di erent size beds, and three hydroponic towers, along with a butter y garden, walking trail, pergolas, and quiet space for members of theThecommunity.signatthe entrance is even meaningful because it was drawn by local student Jillian Cecilio, who entered and won a contest the city o ered to areaResidentsschools.interested in gardening will soon be able to ll out an application to rent a bed for a small annual fee. Suzanne also hopes to get businesses, local organizations like the Boys and Girl Scouts, churches, and school groups like 4-H and FFA involved as volunteers to help with
Clermont Community Garden Clermont Arts & Recreation Center 3700 S. Hwy 27, Clermont Florida 34711 (352) 394 3500 Arcgarden@clermo Facility Manager of the Arts and Recreation Center
Suzanne O’Shea
Traci Anderson stands in Tavares’ community garden at Aesop’s Park.
Tavares’ Parks Operation Manager Traci Anderson is happy to hear of Clermont’s endeavor and wishes them well. She’s seen what such a garden can do for a community and its residents.
Traci may be biased though, considering she’s been gardening since childhood. And, as an adult before coming on board with the city, she and her husband ran a nursery.
“I can remember digging up plants at my grandmother’s house. She’d have colias, and I would take old plastic ice cream containers and root the cuttings as a kid, and I love propagating,” Traci says, adding that she helps residents when possible if they have questions about planting, how to add nutrients to soil or gardening in general. In Clermont, Suzanne is getting there, too. In researching nearby community gardens for design ideas, she was inspired to purchase a hydroponic garden tower and started growing vegetables at home with the help of her three boys. “I’ve always had an interest in gardening so I’ve done a little bit with it in the past, but mainly, I would plant things just to plant them, and they would die. I didn’t know. It was really a learning curve for me, but I’m really getting better,” Suzanne says. “It was an investment, time, and money, but my cherry tomatoes are probably 11-feet tall right now, and it’s great. It’s been a little easier than I expected, and I think people are really going to enjoy the garden just as much as we’re going to enjoy seeing it ourish.”
upkeep. She also envisions the community coming together for demonstrations,classes,and more.
of the more weathered beds because of the value the garden brings to the community. Beyond that, residents are fully responsible for maintaining, watering, weeding and harvesting their own
“Maybe being outside, being active and being somewhat self su cient is on people’s minds, but I have been getting great feedback. Those types of groups have been contacting me for quite some time,” Suzanne says. “That’s a big part of this; providing the education and support for people to be able to grow their own food.”
“Ourplantings.garden is small, but the light is perfect with the live oaks we have there. It’s beautiful, so peaceful, and cool, believe it or not,” Traci says. “People take care of it, they talk, help one another, and they’ve even decorated the grounds with signs and tin can sculptures. It’s just nice to see community happening there.”
In the early 2000s, Tavares developed Aesop’s Park as a
Another component of Aesop’s Park is a currentlyowngardeningteachandfamilycost.vegetablesspacehomeswhocountry.againGreatcommongardens,“Communityoforwhowheelchairsbedsareofcanofoandindividualgardencommunity6,000-square-footvegetableconsistingofplots,irrigation,compostmaterials,alleredtoresidentsfreecharge.(Non-residentsleaseaplotforafee$20peryear).Therealsotworaisedtoaccommodateandpeoplehavedicultykneelingbending.AccordingtotheCityTavareswebsite,vegetablewhichwereincitiesduringtheDepression,areoncepopularacrosstheTheyallowpeopleliveinapartmentsorwithlittleoutdoortogrowtheirownatminimalThisisawonderfulorgroupactivity,anopportunitytokidsaboutthejoysofandgrowingyourvegetables.”Tracisaysthecityisrebuildingsome
COMMUNITY GARDENS PROVIDE MULTIPLE BENEFITS TO THE COMMUNITY AND ITS GARDENERS BY: • Promoting and supporting local, nutritious productionfood • Providing a place to garden • Fostering a sense of community • socialEncouraginginteraction • Reducing family food budgets • Conserving resources • Creating opportunity for recreation, exercise, and education For more information and ideas for your personal garden, visit Discovery Garden, the Lake County UF/IFAS Extension’s demonstration garden, located at 1951 Woodlea Rd., Tavares, where you’ll have access to threeand-a-half acres with 23 different hoursDiscoverygardens.GardenareweekdaysandthethirdSaturdayofthemonth,9am–4pm. SEP'22 LAKEANDSUMTER STYLE .COM / 045
For more information about the CommunityClermontGarden at 3700 S. Highway 27, call Suzanne at Traci501GardenaboutalsobeCommemorative352.708.5998.brickstoplacedatthegardenareavailableforpurchase.FormoreinformationTavares’CommunityatAesop’sPark,E.CarolineStreet,callat352.742.6168.
backyardplacethatdogs,specialopportunities,whichitsbackyard”“communityfacilityneardowntowndistrict,oersexerciseapond,playareasforandotheractivitieswouldnormallytakeinaresidentialenvironment.
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Style has brought together a number of medical experts to answer questions about various health issues. Find your answers here from the dedicated health professionals in our area.
HOME HEALTH
LICENSE
It is individualized care designed to meet your specific needs. Lake Centre Home Care will work with your physician to deliver a personal plan of care that meets your needs to help you stay in your home.
golchc.com
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Skilled home health care gives our clinicians the opportunity to provide one on one patient care without the distractions of a facility. Our clinicians enjoy making a difference in their own neighborhoods and communities. Our clinicians enjoy thesatisfaction and reward of supporting vulnerable patients during challenging times and watching them recover fully. Home health care services can help you recover after a hospitalization or surgery or help you control the symptoms of a chronic illness such as diabetes, COPD or heart failure. Home health care is usually less expensive than a stay in a facility and is more convenient for the patient. Lake Centre Home Care can work directly with your physician to ensure you are following the plan of care prescribed to help you achieve your health care goals. Your physician stays in contact with the clinicians at Lake Centre Home Care to ensure you recover more fully and to help you stay as independent asWepossible.work to educate you and those around you about your care. Our goal is to promote a healthy, healing environment for the patient as well as the caregivers.
Chief Executive O cer GRUNEWALDSHAYNA Chief Operating O cer LORI DAVIS ask the e pert
Lake Centre Home Care Medicare Certified Home Health Agency No. HHA299992424 / / Market St.,
Home health care is a Medicare benefit that can send a team of professionals into your home to prevent a stay in a facility. The team may include a registered nurse, physical therapist, speech therapist, occupational therapist, aide or other clinician.
What are some of the benefits of Skilled Home Health?
Skilled home health care is an important benefit that helps you live your life to the fullest with care that’s delivered in the comfort of your own home.
P: 352.315.0050
Leesburg LAKE CENTRE HOME CARE LAKE CENTRE HOME CARE LAKE CENTRE HOME CARE HEALTH 050 / LAKEANDSUMTER STYLE .COM SEP'22
PRIVATE
Lake Centre Home Care Medicare Certified Home Health Agency LICENSE No. HHA299992424 P: 352.315.0050 / golchc.com / 310 Market St., Leesburg ask the e
DUTYDirectorofPrivateDuty
Non-Skilled Private Duty Home Care is non-skilled services provided to you or a loved one in the comfort of your/their own home by a Certi ed Nursing Assistant, Home Health Aide or Companion with the oversight of a registered Nurse. Some of the services provided are assistance with bathing, dressing, toileting, transfers, ambulation, light housekeeping, and meal preparations. Private Duty can also assist with grocery shopping, transportation to physician appointments, transportation to the beauty or barber shop, as well as medication reminders. Other services include companionship, pet care, laundry, linen changes, and respite care for family and loved ones. Private duty will even help to entertain you or your loved ones by playing board games, cards, or Privatepuzzles.Dutyis not covered by most insurances; however, some Long-Term Care insurances have policies that cover a percentage of the costs. For those without Long-Term Care policies, it is an out-of-pocket private pay expense.
LAKE CENTRE HOME CARE
At Lake Centre Home Care, we are committed to positively impacting the function and well-being of those we serve by assisting each client in reaching his or her utmost potential by delivering the highest standard of care in non-medical services in a safe home environment.
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What is Non-Skilled Private Duty Home Care and what are the benefits?
All CNA’s, HHA’s and Companions are employed by Lake Centre Home Care. We require them to have a Level II FBI Fingerprint Background check, Florida Board of Nursing license veri cation and clearance for CNA’s. We require HHA certi cation for HHA’s, a valid Driver’s license, CPR, National Sex O ender search and at least 2 reference checks. Con dence in our sta ’s ability to safely care for you or your loved one is our priority.
SMARTANDREA
LAKE CENTRE HOME CARE Private Duty non-skilled services do not require a Physician’s referral. WE BELIEVE IN Providing the HIGHEST LEVELS of CUSTOMER SERVICE and satisfaction Accepting responsibility to be COURTEOUS and RESPECTFUL to all Commitment to SERVE THE NEEDS of the community and the organization
LAKE CENTRE HOME CARE
Eighty percent of concussions last about two weeks. Some may su er from postconcussion syndrome that can last for months. Others can have persistent post-concussion syndrome, which lasts over a year. involves three days of testing with several types of scans, one which is a specialized MRI that visualizes the structural changes in blood vessels. Concussion patients will also undergo a SPECT scan, which measures metabolic changes in the brain as a result of injury. Once we obtain imaging, we tie that in with a neurocognitive evaluation, a physical and cardiovascular performance assessment, and a medical evaluation. Between the testing and thorough evaluations, we can pinpoint the speci c cause of a concussion patient’s symptoms and develop a unique treatment program that’s right for Treatmentthem.can include hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) for two hours a day, ve days a week for 12 weeks. This stimulates stem cell growth, which can replace the damaged cells from the concussion. This treatment also helps grow new blood vessels to help blood ow throughout the brain. Patients will have appointments with physicians to help their speci c symptoms, such as neurocognitive training to boost mental performance or physical therapy to help with strength and stability. At the end of the treatment, we repeat the full assessment to objectively measure improvements in brain and body performance and show our clients their results.
BRAIN HEALTHHeadPhysicianatAvivClinics DR. ELAMIRMOHAMMED P: 352.488.2848 / aviv-clinics.com 2955 Brownwood Blvd., Ste. 100, The Villages ask the e pert HEALTH 052 / LAKEANDSUMTER STYLE .COM SEP'22
The second is sheer force trauma to blood vessels that connect throughout the brain. That causes long-term symptoms for weeks, months, or years after the injury. Symptoms can run the gamut, and vary from person to person.
A concussion is a set of symptoms resulting from injury to the Wheneverbrain.there’s an injury to the brain that causes a concussion, it’s a result of two things. The rst is acute trauma to the brain. If you hit your head, some cells are injured and some die.
What can I do if I’m not getting better after a concussion?
DR. BUCHANANTIGE Buchanan Health Center Integrated Medical Services P: 352.787.8531 / buchananhealth.com / 9836 U.S. Hwy 441, Leesburg CHIROPRACTIC ask the e HEALTH SEP'22 LAKEANDSUMTER STYLE .COM / 053
Properlymuscles. evaluating and diagnosing our patients is important and helps us identify and treat the underlying problem. After all, we’re not trying to mask symptoms. We work as a team to come up with a treatment plan to get patients out of pain as quick as we can. Our main goal is to improve their function so patients don’t have reoccurring or chronic pain. To achieve that, our team of a supervisory doctor, a nurse practitioner, a chiropractor and a rehab specialist all work together to come up with a customized treatment plan for each patient. For instance, the medical team may prescribe anti-in ammatory medicine to a patient with a herniated disc. That same patient can also undergo spinal decompression therapy and adjustments by our chiropractic team. He can also undergo rehabilitation to strengthen his back muscles and then enroll in our medical weight-loss program to take pressure o the spine. People have a choice where they receive their medical care. We o er patients more services and more value for their time, energy, and money. By working as a team, we’re able to help patients heal and improve their function faster. Center? Practice Owner and Chiropractor
Our integrated approach allows us to thoroughly examine patients from multiple angles—from the rehab side to the medical side to the chiropractic side.
We can help you live pain free! I’ve been in practice here for 22 years. Over the last eight years, we’ve integrated our practice. We provide primary medical care, chiropractic care, and physical rehab. Patients want to go to a place that can provide more than one type of service. Here, we o er joint injections, trigger point injections, regenerative medicine, bioidentical hormone replacement, platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections, a medical weight-loss program, and non-surgical spinal decompression, all in our o ce. Whether patients have back pain, a common cold, or a musculoskeletal condition, they can have peace of mind knowing they can receive a continuum of care under one roof. This approach provides them much convenience because it spares patients from unnecessary travel time, money, and hassle. They no longer need to visit multiple locations to receive the care they require for injuries or diseases a ecting joints, ligaments, bones, or
What are the benefits of being a patient in an integrated practice like Buchanan Health
For example, we have a patient whose blood sugars were elevated, and he was on his way to becoming a diabetic. After getting him on a proper diet and routine exercise for three months, his glucose decreased and as an added bene t his cholesterol went back to normal, and he was able to stop taking prescription medication which is our goal- getting people o prescription medication and maintaining new lifestyle changes so they are not just focusing on a temporary weight loss dietOurtrend.weight loss program includes a MICC-Liposomal injection with B12 which helps with breakdown of fat during metabolism in the body. We make patients accountable by having them come to the o ce every two weeks to weigh in and become their cheerleaders and encouragers.
Overall, when patients lose weight, they can be more active, play with their children or grandchildren again, participate in activities that had become di cult, sleeping better and most of all discontinue the use of certain prescription medications, which means no more horrible side e ects and better quality of life.
If for some reason they get stuck at a level where no matter what they are doing they can’t lose weight, we look further to determine what else they need to jump start their body’s ability to lose weight again including imbalance of hormones and/or optimizing their thyroid function. We also o er di erent nutritional IV therapies that are formulated to address a variety of issues including dehydration, brain fog, fatigue, and boosting your immune system.
What we o er at Ellis Integrative Family Practice is a program that promotes lifestyle changes to help many health conditions including auto-immune disorders, diabetes, in ammation, and chronic gut issues by naturally correcting in ammation caused by stress, our standard American diet, overuse of antibiotics, prescription drug side e ects, etc. By doing that we not only address weight loss, improved body image, but we can help correct related health conditions.
How can weight loss benefit my overall health?
When people think about weight loss, the rst thing that comes to mind is transforming their bodily appearance but the physical bene ts of losing weight can greatly improve one’s physical health and be preventative in future disease processes.
WEIGHT LOSSOwnerandAPRN ELLISGRETTA Ellis Integrative Family Practices P: 352.508.5418 / ellisintegrative.com / 1865 Nightingale Lane, Tavares Let’s get started on a path to your life-long wellness today! ellisintegrative.com ask the e pert HEALTH 054 / LAKEANDSUMTER STYLE .COM SEP'22
DR.
Whatever your need, Citrus Hearing is a full-service audiology clinic. We service hearing aids, cochlear implants, and boneanchored devices. We provide tinnitus management, ear cleaning, balance evaluations, and more.
Could I be hearing better than I currently am with my hearing aids?
Doctor Of Audiology
PARSONSTERESA P: 352.989.5123 / F: 352.989.5028 / drteresa@citrushearing.com 835 Seventh St., Suite 2, Clermont / citrushearing.com HEARING ask the e HEALTH SEP'22 LAKEANDSUMTER STYLE .COM / 055
That could very well be the case; the thing to remember is that hearing aids are only as good as how they are programmed. At Citrus Hearing Clinic, we give you all the tools you need to be as successful with your hearing aids as possible.
First, we verify the function of each hearing aid, which we hold to a very high standard for every patient we see. We run test box measurements to ensure that your devices meet manufacturer speci cations, that they are in good working order, and that they are working well enough to bene t you fully. We then run a diagnostic test to make sure your hearing aids are programmed to an accurate and current prescription. If your hearing aids need programming, we use RealEar Measurements, a service that only about 30% of audiology o ces provide. Taking Real-Ear Measurements is the only way to eliminate the guesswork involved in tting or adjusting hearing aids. It allows us to verify whether the sound and clarity of incoming sound is matched to your prescription. Additionally, we don’t try to sell you new hearing aids if your hearing aids are working well. Citrus Hearing Clinic works with all seven major manufacturers of hearing aids. We would rather program and x your hearing aids when possible, so that you get the most out of what you already have. If you still cannot hear properly or are not quite satis ed with your hearing aids, it doesn’t necessarily mean they’re bad. They just may not be tting your needs any longer. In that case, we could add an accessory to decrease background noise such as a partner microphone. A partner or mini microphone can allow you to communicate with a companion from across the room as if they are standing right next to you and whispering in your ear. If you are still struggling with your hearing aids even after we verify that they are t to best practices, it might be time to consider an evaluation for a cochlear implant. Cochlear implants may be the next step when hearing aids are no longer strong enough to give your brain the clarity it needs.
The frequency and duration of immunotherapy is based on several factors, including the type and stage of the cancer. Some types of immunotherapies are administered in cycles, giving the body time to recover or respond by producing new, healthy cells.
What are the most promising breakthroughs in cancer treatment today?
Cancer starts when normal, healthy cells become changed or altered and begin to grow out of control. For years, traditional treatments have focused on killing cancer cells using chemotherapy and radiation. While e ective, these treatments can also destroy healthy blood cells and harm the body’s production of newThankscells. to ongoing scienti c research, we have a much greater understanding of the microenvironment of cancer and many more e ective options to ght theInformationdisease. gained through advanced genetic testing allows us to see an individual’s complete genetic panel, providing a clearer understanding of their speci c genetic mutations. Oncologists can then seek out a therapy that targets that exact mutation based on the patient’s unique molecular pro le. This truly personalized treatment planning leads to more positive outcomes— increasing cure rates and extending lives.
One of the most promising and successful new treatments for cancer is immunotherapy, which works to stimulate or boost the body’s own immune system to nd, target and ght many forms of the disease, even at advanced stages. We can now strengthen the immune system to work 24/7, creating equilibrium between the body and the cancer, so it cannot spread or grow. Immunotherapies actually can cure or stabilize the Immunotherapiesdisease. stimulate the body’s immune system or boost its natural defenses by introducing proteins developed in a lab into the body to work harder to ght cancer. Therapies can be injected directly into a vein or body cavity, swallowed in pill or capsule form or applied topically through a cream that is rubbed onto theThereskin. is a growing list of immunotherapies. For example, CarTcell therapy alters a type of white blood cell in a laboratory and placed back into the body so that they are better able to nd and destroy cancer cells. Monoclonal antibodies are proteins created in a lab and designed to bind to speci c targets on cancer cells. They are then marked so that they will be better seen and destroyed by the immune system.
IBRAHIM SADEK, MD How do immunotherapies work and what are the advantages?
CANCERBREAKTHROUGHSTREATMENTINMedicalOncologist/HematologistFloridaCancerSpecialists&ResearchInstitute
Q ask the e pert HEALTH 056 / LAKEANDSUMTER STYLE .COM SEP'22
FLCANCER.COM
Villages Cancer Center P: 352.753.9777 / 1400 US Hwy 441 N., Bldg 500, Ste. 540, The Villages Brownwood Cancer Center P: 352.765.7100 / 2955 Brownwood Blvd., Ste. 107, The Villages Learn more or schedule a consultation today!
Researchers are focusing on increasing our understanding of how the immune system works and new treatments are being discovered at a very fast pace. Hundreds of new immunotherapy drugs are being tested in clinical trials.
Q
Florida Cancer Specialists & Research Institute
Immunotherapy may be used alone or in combination with chemotherapy, radiation and/or surgery. While side e ects can occur, a key di erence is that they are often less severe than those encountered with conventional therapies. Therefore, the body can tolerate treatment better and for a longer period of time without stopping and yield a quicker response. These therapies actually result in better control and can greatly minimize the chance of cancer recurring. Even though immunotherapy can prevent or slow cancer growth, cancer cells do have ways to avoid destruction by the immune system.
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Other areas of focus include nding ways to overcome the body’s resistance to immunotherapy, nding ways to predict which patients will respond best to this form of treatment and ways to reduce the side e ects of treatment. I always tell my patients to never give up; there is always something we can do for cancer. Don’t assume there is no hope. It is important to talk with a medical oncologist and learn about all your options before you decide what to do.Increasingly, we are curing cancer or modifying its course to avoid complications. Patients are living longer with cancer more like a chronic disease and enjoying a better quality of life. Even patients with Stage 4 and metastatic cancers are in or beyond remission and their cancers are gone forTreatmentgood. is always getting better. We have access to the newest and most advanced modalities, and we are here to go through every step of the journey with you. I am excited each day to wake up and see how I can positively impact someone’s life. What hopeful message can you share with those newly diagnosed with cancer?
IBRAHIM SADEK, MD is a Board-Certified Medical Oncologist and Hematologist who provides care for all forms of cancer and blood disorders at the Florida Cancer Specialists & Research Institute’s Villages Cancer Center and Brownwood locations. / 057
It is an abnormality or disease of the macula, the center part of your retina, which is the lining of the back of your eye responsible for processing the images you see. The macula allows you to see ne details and when it doesn’t work properly, central vision can become blurry or distorted.
The major risk factors include being over the age of 50, having a family history of macular degeneration and cigarette smoking. How would I know if I have it? Macular degeneration can present with a variety of symptoms, but most commonly, people will describe that their central vision is blurry. They may also notice that straight lines look distorted or bent or that there are blind spots in their direct line of sight. How is degenerationmaculardiagnosed?
I encourage people to self-test weekly by covering up each eye separately and checking their vision. If it appears blurry or distorted, you should call an eye doctor right away to schedule a dilated eye exam. At that time, an optical coherence tomography, or a picture of the back of the eye allows us to look for characteristics of the disease like drusen’s (protein) under the surface of the retina, or swelling in the eye. How is degenerationmaculartreated?
What causes degeneration?macular
If it’s the dry form, over the counter antioxidant vitamin supplements called AREDS 2 have been shown in clinical trials to prevent AMD from progressing. If it’s the wet form, the most common treatment is anti-VEGF, an injection in the eye that targets receptors in abnormal vessels and stops them from bleeding andTheleaking.medications have revolutionized the treatment of macular degeneration and prevented vision loss and blindness in millions of people.
Ophthalmologist Specializing in Vitreo-Retinal Diseases
JAYA B. KUMAR, MD,
FASRS 058 / LAKEANDSUMTER STYLE .COM SEP'22
There are two di erent kinds of macular degeneration. The rst and most common type is the dry form, which results in thinning of the macular tissue and gradual vision loss. The second is the wet form, and because of uid or blood in the retina, vision loss occurs more rapidly.
Florida Retina Institute P: 352.259.9944
What degeneration?macularis
Frequent visits with your eye care specialist are the best way to identify macular degeneration early.
/ floridaretinainstitute.com / contact@floridaretinainstitute.com 790 U.S. Highway 441, Lady Lake ask the e pert HEALTH
EYE CARE
Learn more or schedule an appointment today!
/ eustislakesidedental.com / 15
DR. YOUNGSUMMER Eustis Lakeside 352.357.2564 W. Eustis Lakeside Dental is a team of dedicated dental professionals on a mission to provide high quality dental care while creating a friendly treatment environment.
Atwater Avenue, Eustis
Dentist and Practice Owner
Dental P:
Your teeth are not separate from your body. Teeth are a complex living tissue with their own nerve and vascular system. They play a vital role in digestion, nutrient uptake, facial structural support, airway protection, and most importantly a good quality of Diabetes,life.
asthma, high blood pressure, acid re ux, Parkinson’s Disease, depression, anxiety, and many other health conditions have negative e ects on your mouth. Some of these impacts are directly related to the condition itself, others are caused by the medications patients use to treat them. Dry mouth is one of the leading side e ects of medications. Dry mouth creates an acidic environment. Acid is just as, if not more, detrimental to your teeth than sugar. Many factors cause cavities, encourage the risk of cavities, or cause changes to your gums and bone around teeth. It is important to see your dentist regularly to review your risk factors and minimize them through education, proper treatment, and prevention techniques. Due to the complexity of the oral systemic connection, it is important for you to communicate with your dental team whenever you have a new health condition. At Eustis Lakeside Dental, I have trained my team to engage our patients and educate them on the role they play in their dental health. Patients can begin to line themselves up for success by practicing good dental hygiene at home such as brushing with uoridated toothpaste, ossing, getting regular dental care, and checkups. Our goal is to help our patients maintain optimum oral health. How does my systemic health impact my teeth?
EUSTISLAKESIDEDENTAL.COM DENTAL ask the e HEALTH SEP'22 LAKEANDSUMTER STYLE .COM / 059
CARDIOLOGYCardiologist
Village Heart and Vein Center DR. PATELSAURABH,FACC,FSCAI
ask the e pert HEALTH 060 / LAKEANDSUMTER STYLE .COM SEP'22
Dr. Saurabh Patel
Let me start by saying that each minute after a heart attack, more heart tissue is damaged or dies. Therefore, it is very important to identify the warning signs of somebody having a heart attack. Those signs include chest pressure, tightness, discomfort, and heaviness. You may also experience nausea, sweating, jaw pain, and left arm pain. Atypical symptoms may include an upset stomach or signi cant acid re ux. A heart attack can happen suddenly, and in some cases, it wakes people up at night. Anyone experiencing these symptoms should be immediately evaluated in the hospital or a nearby urgentTherecare.are two forms of heart attacks—major heart attack and minor heart attack. A major heart attack needs urgent treatment with angioplasty and stent placement or open-heart surgery with bypass graft. Minor heart attacks need urgent evaluation and a medical treatment plan with blood thinners, stenting, or emergency bypass. Now, can someone live a normal life after a heart attack? Immediately following a heart attack, patients should be closely evaluated by cardiologists for one to two weeks to follow the course of recovery. Based on evaluation, a patient should be referred to cardiac rehab, where they will be closely monitored while completing an exercise program and other activities. Cardiac rehabilitation has proven to be signi cantly important in improving normal lifestyle and enhancing a patient’s exercise capacity after a major heart attack. Those who recover from the heart attack and complete their rehabilitation program enjoy a longer life expectancy and quality of life. If someone does not nish their rehabilitation program because of symptoms of congestive heart failure, their quality of life is compromised. If there’s damage to the heart muscle from the heart attack, patients can still live a normal life with appropriate medical therapy combined with a change in their diet and lifestyle. There also needs to be strict monitoring of their water and salt intake.
If you are experiencing heart attack symptoms, you cannot wait to get evaluated. If you wait longer, the heart has already been damaged, and at that point, chances of recovery are limited. If there is signi cant damage to the heart muscle, chances of death increase due to rapid heartbeat, or ventricular brillation. After undergoing appropriate medical therapy, if the heart symptoms do not improve, de brillator implantation can prevent sudden cardiac death and improve life expectancy. Of course, everybody should live a healthy lifestyle and try to avoid having a heart attack in the rst place. Undergoing periodic screenings and doctor evaluations allow us to intervene before a heart attack occurs.
Can I lead a normal life following a heart attack?
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Owner and Cardiologist
Village Heart & Vein Center is a full-service cardiology practice that provides its patients with the very highest standards of medical and compassionate care!
Yes. People can live a normal life after a heart attack. If you exercise, eat healthy, lose unnecessary weight, and take your prescribed medication, then more likely than not, you will be able to live a complete, normal life. If you have a stroke, you’ll end up with permanent damage. However, if you have a heart attack, you can make a remarkable recovery. That’s because the self-healing ability of your brain is much more limited than the self-healing ability of your heart. Exercising after a heart attack is crucially important. Your heart is a muscle, and like any other muscle in your body, you must exercise to keep it strong. That’s why insurance I truly complement one another. I’m further along in my career and am therefore more experienced. However, Dr. Patel brings new, fresh ideas to our practice. Dr. Patel is an interventional cardiologist who has undergone specialized training in heart catheterization procedures. I am a general cardiologist. I can learn from Dr. Patel, and he can learn from me. Our practice has all the specialties of cardiac coverage because we have two general cardiologists, two electrophysiologists, and two interventional cardiologists.
Village Heart and Vein Center P: 352.674.2080 / F: 352.674.2177 / villageheartandvein.com Lady Lake 8575 NE 138th LN., STE. 203, Lady Lake Leesburg 708 Physician Court, Ste. 2, Leesburg
Dr. Georg Couturier Your heart is a muscle, and like any other muscle in your body, you must exercise to keep it strong.
Village Heart and Vein Center DR. COUTURIERGEORG
Do pets need special care as they age?
PET HEALTH
DR.
Belleview Veterinary Hospital was founded in 1993. Today, Dr. Rick Erwin and his daughter Dr. Cara ErwinOliver have a thriving practice.
ERWIN-OLIVERCARA Belleview Veterinary Hospital P: 352.347.3900 / belleviewveterinaryhospital.com / 10725 SE 36th Ave, Belleview ask the e pert HEALTH 062 / LAKEANDSUMTER STYLE .COM SEP'22
“Problems start at a cellular level. Detecting these diseases early is important because we can combat many of them with proper nutrition and nutritional supplements. Diabetes is a good example. If a dog or cat has slightly elevated glucose, we may be able to regulate it by diet alone. If that doesn’t work, we have the option to treatBesidesmedically.”blood pro les, Dr. ErwinOliver also conducts a thorough exam of the patient, including auscultation of the heart and lungs. She performs parasite screenings to detect intestinal parasites—a major problem in Florida. She uses urinalysis to detect kidney disease, diabetes and UTI’s.
If you are a pet owner, it probably seems like yesterday when you brought that adorable kitten or puppy home. You remember it running around the yard with endless energy, exploring its new surroundings. Unfortunately, there will come a time when your furry friends slow down. It happens to them like it happens to us. When we age, our health care needs change considerably because we’re more prone to developing health conditions that may negatively a ect our quality of life. Same with pets. If you want to ensure that your beloved dog or cat lives a longer, happier life, it must receive adequate care during its goldenFortunately,years.
Dr. Cara Erwin-Oliver of Belleview Veterinary Hospital has extensive experience when it comes to caring for geriatric pets and she is a who has worked at the family-owned practice for 13 years. “Dogs become geriatric patients at approximately age 8, cats around age 9. When an older dog or cat does not feel well, pet owners sometimes chalk it up to old age. But age is not a disease. There is a reason your pet doesn’t feel good. So, let’s x it. It is always better to prevent a problem from occurring or treat it early rather than wait.”
The doctor recommends yearly blood pro les of geriatric pets to monitor organ functions. She looks at liver enzymes, kidney enzymes, blood cell counts, glucose levels, thyroid levels, and electrolytes. Doing this helps her detect numerous diseases in their early stages such as diabetes, kidney disease, blood disorders, liver disease, thyroid disorders, and Cushing’s disease, to name a few.
5. For those already enrolled in a Medicare plan, the Annual Enrollment Period (AEP) is right around the corner (October 15 - December 7)!
Congratulations! This is a big milestone and deserves a celebration. Here are a few things every new 65-year-old should know:
INSURANCE
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P: E. connected with or U.S. government or the federal Medicare program. By contacting us you agree that a licensed agent may call or discuss Medicare Advantage, Prescription Drug Plans or Medicare Supplement Insurance.
2. If you are still working and have an employer group health plan (EGHP), most likely you will NOT need Part B. You will “delay enrollment” until you are ready to retire. Plan to contact Social Security about 3 months prior to your retirement date. Your employer will con rm creditable coverage and arrange for your Part B to begin the rst of the month after your EGHP ends. Cobra does NOT count as as Medicare Advantage (MA), Medicare Supplement (Medigap) and/or Part D plans.
4. If you recently moved, even if you came from a neighboring county, a change in location can open up new plan options. You have 63 days after you report a change of address to select new coverage if available, so be sure to reach out to a local agent and inquire.
During this time, everyone with Medicare can review plans for the upcoming year and make changes that will be e ective January 1st. 6. Finally, if you are happy with your current plan, you do not need to do anything. Your plan will automatically renew. If you would like to “Ask the Expert” in person, you can attend one of our “Making Medicare Easy” seminars (information is available on our website) or call to schedule an in-person meeting with one of our agents. Come out and see us; we would love to meet you!
352.735.7795 / jgraham@hiradvocates.com / sbrisbin@hiradvocates.com 428
endorsed by the
1. If you are already drawing Social Security, you will automatically be enrolled in Parts A and B. Your Medicare will begin on the 1st of your birthday month and your monthly payment will be automatically deducted from your Social Security check.
SUSAN BRISBIN & JULIE GRAHAM
5th Ave. Mount Dora / HIRAdvocates.com Not
I turning 65 soon, how do I make the transition to Medicare? Co-Founders & Independent Agents
am
e-mail to
VITAS®
Most Americans would prefer to die at home if given a choice. Yet, according to a Kaiser Family Foundation survey, expectations of actually doing so fall short. About half of those surveyed (49%) believe most people have too little control over decisions about their own medical care at the end of life. Of those who rated their own health as fair or poor, that gure rises to 69%. Yet only 1 in 10 have discussed their wishes for care near the end of life with a healthcare professional. Initiating this conversation is a powerful step you can take to help ensure that the care you receive in the future is in line with your values, goals, and preferences. These conversations should continue, change, and evolve, depending on how your health changes in the future.
Hospice care, where the focus is on comfort and quality of life vs. A six-month, earned bene t, the Medicare Hospice Bene t is inclusive: all services related to the advanced illness are covered up to 100% percent by Medicare Part A. Coverage includes visits, as well as medications, equipment, and supplies. Almost 95% of all hospice care takes place in patients’ homes. While there is no limit to the time a patient can receive hospice services, the bene t is for patients who have six months or less to live according to a doctor, and it can be extended when needed. Family members often say, “we wish we had known about hospice sooner.”
SHEGA,JOSEPHMD Vitas Healthcare P: 800.723.3233 / vitas.com / 1950 Laurel Manor Dr., Suite 135, The Villages HOSPICE Ask
Then choose the hospice provider that’s right for you. VITAS.COM ask the e HEALTH 064 / LAKEANDSUMTER STYLE .COM SEP'22
How do you control your
While all hospice providers are reimbursed the same way, services vary by provider. At VITAS® Healthcare, our unique care model includes services that go beyond the requirements of the Medicare Hospice Bene t. For over 40 years, we have been guided by a core value: “Patients and families come rst.” Every VITAS service is designed to surround patients, their families, and caregivers with support that elevates quality of life, manages their symptoms and pain, and ensures comfort and dignity during one of life’s most di cult—but meaningful—periods.Withclinicalcareguided by our full-time medical directors, VITAS also provides 24/7/365 support by phone and by-the-bedside support when emergencies arise. Our inclusive approach to the hospice plan of care includes the primary care physician and continues patients’ medications to control symptoms. Bereavement support is also integral to the VITAS care model, with specialists providing support to loved ones for at least 13 months following a death. end of life decisions?
Executive VP & Chief Medical O cer Healthcare questions.
Cataract/Implant Specialist Glaucoma Specialist Laser Specialist J. PANZO, M.D. Summerfield
- Wildwood EYE CARE
The surgeonsexperiencedat Mid Florida Eye can help determine if cataract surgery is right What are the surgical options for cataracts?
cataract?a
Mid Florida Eye Center P: 352.735.2020 / F: 352.735.3233 / midfloridaeye.com Mount Dora - Leesburg -
Cataracts can occur at any age, like graying hair later in life but generally become present in the sixth or seventh generation of life. This aging is progressive but not always noticeable and is not detrimental to the rest of the eye in most Cataractsinstances.causesymptoms that are most noticeable during daily activities. Most notably, di culty reading ne print, especially on television, decreased vision in bright light settings, such as driving at night or during sunny days, and troublesome glare or halos around lights at night. Cataracts also cause less noticeable but more insidious issues such as decreased contrast sensitivity and depth perception. These issues increase the risk of two injuries a ecting the elderly, falls resulting in hip fractures and auto accidents. They have also been shown to increase dementia and decrease overall satisfaction of Fortunately,life.you can prevent this with regular visits to your ophthalmologist and the assessment and treatment of your cataracts. Past surgical techniques for cataracts were associated with higher complications, longer recovery time, and poorer results compared to today’s cataract treatment. In the past, cataract surgery was delayed until symptoms were extreme. Fortunately, with current surgical technology employed by cataract specialists, cataracts can be removed at any stage. Cataract surgeons can now assess patients for cataract surgery earlier in life without delay. Modern laser and lens technology have also eliminated astigmatism and other age-related changes to the eye, providing restored, youthful vision and less dependence on glasses. Micro Incisional Glaucoma procedures are available to treat glaucoma and cataracts during the same procedure. This results in enhanced quality of life, general health, and the restoration of youthful vision. is
What
GREGORY
for you!
Q ask the e HEALTH SEP'22 LAKEANDSUMTER STYLE .COM / 065
Cataracts are aging of the eye’s crystalline lens, which interferes with the passage of light into our eyes and diminishes our vision.
P: 352.385.7718 / F: 352.385.7719 / admin@anklefootflorida.com / theankleandfootcenter.com Nightingale Ste. A,
Although surgery is sometimes the best option, regenerative medicine is an excellent alternative, especially when it comes to the treatment of acute or chronic conditions like tendonitis/tendon tears, wounds, various types of injuries, arthritis, neuropathy, calluses, and more. With regenerative medicine, we nd di erent ways to treat a condition by stimulating your body’s own growth factors to allow for increased regeneration, or healing, that may have been slowed down by aging, injury, or other things. The procedures we use for such treatments are MLS laser therapy, grafts for wound care, Platelet Rich Plasma (or PRP), and Leneva Adipose tissue injections for tissue reconstruction, and all FDA approved.
This type of surgical technique, also known as minimal invasive surgery, is performed using smaller incisions as compared to that of traditional surgery, and the advantages are great. Because of the smaller incisions, you have a faster healing time, and because you’re not disrupting the bone, the blood circulation and supply, you have less swelling and discomfort. Perhaps the greatest bene t, however, is that you can start walking sooner after surgery – about one week in most cases – as opposed to traditional surgery where you are having to wait and be o your feet for about six weeks. In fact, you are encouraged to walk following minimal incision surgery, because walking promotes healing. What procedures are conducive to this type of surgery and where is it offered?
1865
Ankle & Foot Center of Central Florida
PODIATRY
What is minimal incision surgery and how can it benefit me?
using minimal incision surgery are hammertoe deformities, bunions, neuromas, and bone spurs. We don’t use any hardware and we use external taping to xate the foot, and it can all be accomplished outside of a hospital setting. We have a surgical suite at the o ce where we utilize local anesthesia and low radiation x-rays as needed during surgery, and patients are able to go home the same day, which is safer and more cost e ective, as well. Is regenerative medicine a viable option for treating ongoing foot or ankle conditions causing discomfort?
Tavares ask the e pert HEALTH 066 / LAKEANDSUMTER STYLE .COM SEP'22
Podiatrist, Foot and Ankle Surgeon DR. BALKARANJOANNEWHATOTHERSERVICESDOYOUOFFER?
Ankle and Foot Center of Central Florida is a full-service clinic with two highly trained podiatrists: Dr. Rikesh Patel and Dr. Joanne Balkaran, who can offer expert advice and services to help you relieve any “below the knee” issue you may be experiencing.
Lane,
352.674.2080 | villageheartandvein.com 8575 NE 138th Lane, Suite 203, Lady Lake 708 Physician Court, Suite 2, Leesburg congestive“Iwasdiagnosedwithheartfailurein2017.Dr.Inamdarhasgoneaboveandbeyondtohelpmelivemybestlife.Withhim,you’renotjustapatient.Youfeellikeafamilymember.”—NominishaPitt,Leesburg My Doctor knows me by heart
Survive Sarah’s demented pranks as you encounter gangs of corrupted clowns hindering your escape from her sinister circus in this high-tech trail experience with cutting-edge technology in lighting, audio, and visual e ects. 40541 Roger Giles Rd., 352.771.2013SunsationalFarms.comUmatilla@sunsationalfarmsumatilla//866-FLGROWN October 29 th 3 pm - 6 pm 068 / LAKEANDSUMTER STYLE .COM SEP'22
We’ve eliminated the worst part of the hospital stay for total joint replacement... The Hospital Stay Alfred J. Cook, Jr., MD John T.SHARONWilliams,Jr.,MDL.MORSE MEDICAL CENTER 1400 N US Hwy 441, Suite 552 | The Villages, FL 32159 phone 352.751.2862 | fax 855.420.1047 | go a o i .com New shoulderhip, or knee hometoday,tonight!
to
home • Reduces risk of infection and exposure to communicable diseases • Pre/post-surgical education guides you through a successful recovery Ideal Candidates are: • Highly motivated and
OUTPATIENT DOCSREPLACEMENTSTOTAL-JOINTFROMTHEWHOKNOWORTHO
replacement
Alfred J. Cook, Jr., MD
solution. We’re here to provide you
may
can
is
John T. Williams, MD
Dr. Williams is at the forefront of hip and knee replacements and revision surgeries nationally. As director of the Einstein Medical Center Total Joint Program, in Philadelphia, he introduced some of the most-advanced surgical techniques available to reconstruct and replace hips in adults. He now performs most of his total knee and hip replacements on an outpatient basis for patients who are good candidates.
you
you
life-changing relief. Call 352.751. 2862 Today! “We’re not just treating knees, shoulders, and hips. We’re treating grandparents and golfers, kayakers and workers, weekend warriors and elite athletes. And we’re not going to be satisfied until we
them
While most patients of Dr. Alfred J. Cook, Jr., and Dr. John Williams, Jr. be treated without surgery, up to 80 percent of those who need a joint replacement of the hip, shoulder or knee can now have surgery in the morning go home the same afternoon. own able follow post-surgical instructions; by a strong network of family friends hip, shoulder or knee pain affecting quality of life and holding back from participating in activities once enjoyed, outpatient joint surgery be the with relieve have the expertise to help enjoy the lives they love, again.“
• Generally healthy, active and independent; • Supported
If
and
your
Dr. Cook is among the nation’s leaders in reverse shoulder replacements to restore rotator cuff function, performing more in a year than many orthopedic surgeons do in a lifetime. The majority of his shoulder replacements are now being done as Theseoutpatients.types of revolutionary procedures are helping patients who are “pseudo paralyzed” from their conditions return to the sports and activities they most enjoy.
and
their pain. We
Benefits of Outpatient Joint Replacement • Recovery is in the comfort of your
Heather Fleming, MSN, APRN-C, RNFA Heather works with Dr. Cook in clinic and the OR, and is excited to help educate her patients, prepare them for procedures, and coordinate their home health, rehab, transportation and other care needs. She is currently working toward her Doctorate in Nursing Practice.
Therapy |
Onsite X-Ray Outpatient Physical Therapy
Onsite X-Ray Danielle Oliver, R.T.(R) (ARRT), has the expertise and knowledge in orthopedic imaging to make your experience better. X-ray images are made during your appointment to see the extent of your injury or how well you are healing.
1400 N US Hwy 441, Suite 552 | The Villages, FL 32159 phone 352.751.2862 | fax 855.420.1047 | go a o i .com AOI INTEGRATES ITS APPROACH TO GETTING YOU BACK IN MOTION Regenerative Therapy (PRP)
Megan Benoit, MSN, FNP-C, APRN, RNFA Megan works with Dr. Williams, seeing patients, providing pre- and post-op education and care, visiting patients in the hospital and assisting in surgery. She believes in a holistic approach to patient care and listens carefully to patients’ concerns, needs and opinions. Outside of the office she enjoys bowling, fishing and going to the beach.
Platelet Rich Plasma Therapy (PRP) uses a patient’s own blood, which is drawn in our office and spun in a centrifuge, to stimulate the body’s natural repair process. PRP can help regenerate tissue in damaged joints, tendons or ligaments. It is used to reduce pain and swelling, increase range of motion, speed recovery, Increase flexibility, and recover mobility. PRP is helpful in treating arthritis, bursitis, chronic pain, degenerative conditions, fractures, plantar fasciitis, tendonitis, sprains, and more.
Physical Therapy Conditions that cause pain or limited mobility often benefit from specialized orthopedic physical therapy. We help patients regain mobility, strength and range of motion and also focus on making sure patients heal quickly and safely surgery.injuriesafterand
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Regenerative
SHARON L. MORSE MEDICAL CENTER 1400 N US Hwy 441, Suite 552 | The Villages, FL 32159 phone 352.751.2862 | fax 855.420.1047 | go a o i .com ORTHOPEDICSADVANCEDINSTITUTE People who suffer from arthritis and other types of joint pain may have considered cannabis-based treatments, such as cannabidiol (CBD) oil, as an alternative to opiod and other prescription medications. They may also be unsure about which ones to buy, and where to buy them. After considerable research and due diligence, AOI has introduced its own line of CBD products to give patients a healthier alternative for pain relief. Benefits include: • Minimal (if any) side effects • Few known medication interactions • Reduced inflammation throughout the body not just joints, muscles and tendons. AOI CBD products are available to patients and non-patients by visiting the office during normal hours, and include: • Pain Management CBD Salve • Full-Spectrum CBD Sublingual Tincture (Peppermint and Natural) • CBD Salve/ Pain Stick • Massage Oil Lotion AOI INTRODUCES ITS OWN LINE OF CBD PRODUCTS SPORTS MEDICINE TOTAL JOINT REPLACEMENT OF THE HIP, KNEE AND SHOULDER REVISION TOTAL JOINT REPLACEMENT EARLY INTERVENTION AND CARTILAGE STEMREGENERATIONCELLTREATMENT FRACTURES OF THE UPPER AND LOWER EXTREMITIES PHYSICAL THERAPY AND SPORTS BRACINGREHABILITATIONANDORTHOTICSONSITEX-RAY PRP SOFT TISSUE AND JOINT INJECTIONS OUR SERVICES
agenda EVENTS. TRAVEL. PEOPLE. Whimsy Market provides an ideal shopping experience to help small businesses blossom.
SEP
ONGOINGEVENTS Events are subject to change and cancellation. EVERY SUN Farmer’sClermontMarket
EVERY
TROUBLE IN THE TRAILER PARK 9/9-9/25
EVERY
Melon Patch Players presents “The Diary of Anne Frank,” a story of a young Jewish girl who confronts her rapidly changing life during World War II with honesty, wit, and determination. Melon Patch Theatre 311 N. 13th St., Leesburg / 352.787.3013 sep.
HISTORICAL COMESHISTORYALIVE
EXTRACTS FROM A DIARY 9/17 & 9/18
“THE OWL AND THE PUSSYCAT” 9/9-10/2 Sonnentag Theatre at the IceHouse presents “The Owl and the Pussycat,” a story about a San Francisco writer who enters into an explosive relationship with an aspiring model/actress. Sonnentag Theatre at the IceHouse 1100 N. Unser St., Mount Dora / 352.383.4616
ON STAGE Enjoy quality entertainment on the many stages of Lake and Sumter counties.
Bay Street Players presents “The Great American Trailer Park,” a play about a new tenant who wreaks havoc at a trailer park in Starke, Florida. Bay Street Players / 109 N. Bay St., Eustis / 352.357.7777
EVENT DIRTY WORK Mothers and sons can clean up their relationship by making a mess at Messy Mania, hosted by the Eustis Parks and Recreation Department. The event allows mothers and their boys to strengthen bonds by competing together in several messy challenges, some involving obstacle courses. Dinner will be provided. September 17 / Eustis Service Center 301 W. Ward Ave., Eustis / 352.357.7969 17 SEP 10
On Dec. 28, 1835, nearly 200 Seminole Indians ambushed 107 federal troops in Sumter County. Only three U.S. soldiers survived the battle that became known as Dade’s Massacre and sparked the Second Seminole War. Visit Dade Battlefield Historic State Park for a program featuring demonstrations and a guided walk that explores the battle from the Seminole perspective. You will also learn about camp life and the way of the warrior. September 10 / Dade Battlefield Historic State Park 7200 County Road 603, Bushnell / 352.793.4781 Downtown9am-2pmClermont SUN Downtown Mount Dora Village Market Mount9am-2pmDora MON Farmer’sWebsterMarket 6am-2pm 524 North Market Blvd., Webster EVERY TUE Lady Farmer’sLakeMarket 9am-2pm 250 Rolling Acres Rd., Lady Lake EVERY THU Lake County Farmers & Flea Market 8am- noon 2101 N. County Rd. 452, Eustis
@ 7pm GEORGE TRULLINGER Orange Blossom Opry, Weirsdale 9/29 @ 7pm MICHELLE INGRHAM GarVino’s Cigars Fine Wine and Gifts, The Villages 9/30 @ 6pm MANFREDI ROCKS Flying Boat Tap Room, Belleview 9/30 @ 7pm DENNIE AND THE JETS Eustis Elks Lodge, Eustis 10/1 @ 11am SANDY BACK PORCH Sunsational Farms, Umatilla PAGEANT A crowning a air At the 36th annual Miss Leesburg Scholarship Pageant, contestants will vie for the titles of “Teen Miss,” “Little Miss,” “Junior Miss,” “Tiny Miss,” and “Miss Leesburg.” Winners will spend a year participating in community service projects throughout Lake and Sumter counties. September 24 / Leesburg High School 1401 Yellow Jacket Way, Leesburg / 352.255.3508 SEP 24
THE TO-DO LIST 1ST FRI Eustis First Friday Downtown6pm-9pmEustis 1ST FRI Clermont First Friday Food Trucks 6855:30pm-9pmW.Montrose St., Clermont 2ND FRI Farmer’sGrovelandMarket Lake5pm-9pmDavidPark,Groveland 2ND SAT Plaid in the Park 2304pm-8pmW.4thAve.,MountDora 2ND SAT Main Street Classic Car Show 5105pm-7pmW.MainSt.,Leesburg 4TH SAT Eustis Classic Car Cruise-In Downtown4pm-8pmEustis sep.JAMS Move to the beat of your favorite performers at these great concerts or local venues! Let us help you get the word out! To have an event considered for the calendar, send a short text description along with a color photo (if available) 45 days in advance of event to: calendar@akersmediagroup.com or Lake & Sumter Style Calendar, P.O. Box 490088, Leesburg, FL 34749 9/6 @ 3pm C.O.D. FLORIDA Edna’s on the Green, Wildwood 9/6 @ 7pm THE ORCHESTRAPHILHARMONICVILLAGES The Sharon, The Villages 9/9 @ 7pm BOBBY RANDALL AND THE OBO BAND Orange Blossom Opry, Weirsdale 9/9 @ 9pm ACE SUGGS Fish Camp Restaurant, Tavares 9/10 @ 4pm DENNIE AND THE JETS Edna’s on the Green, Wildwood 9/15 @ 7:30pm TED TORRES MARTIN Mount Dora Elvis Festival 9/16 @ 4pm MICHELLE INGRHAM Edna’s on the Green, Wildwood 9/17 @ noon SANDY BACK PORCH Edna’s on the Green, Wildwood 9/17 @ 4pm MICHELLE INGRHAM
The Sunny Pint, Wildwood 9/17 @ 7pm JAY ALAN AND THE OBO BAND Orange Blossom Opry, Weirsdale 9/18 @ 1:30pm MANFREDI ROCKS Ruby Street Grille, Tavares 9/18 @ 4:30pm C.O.D. FLORIDA Hurricane Dockside Grill, Tavares 9/22 @ 6pm MICHELLE INGRHAM Flying Boat Tap Room, Belleview 9/23 @ 6:30pm THOM JOHNSON Hawthorne at Leesburg, Leesburg 9/24 @ 6:30pm DENNIE AND THE JETS Tavares Dog House, Tavares 9/24
Email their story to editorial@akersmediagroup.com
Siren call Tumblers are former police officer Kim Stewart’s new cup of tea. CYNTHIA MCFARLAND NICOLE HAMEL
PEOPLE
While Kim does post photos on her Facebook page, those images don’t do the cups Word-of-mouthjustice. is her best advertisement and inspires many repeat orders. Siren Designs by Kim tumblers are available through Facebook and locally at Water Gypsy Co ee Co. in Leesburg.
“This is the rst thing I’ve done in my life that’s really artsy and creative,” she says. “It’s satisfying to know I have the ability to do this.”
The Florida native makes and sells unique handmade stainless-steel tumblers as Siren Designs by Kim. The business name celebrates both Kim’s love of the ocean and honors the 30 years she spent with the Leesburg Police Department, from which she recently retired as a lieutenant.
Do you know of a talented person in our community?
STORY:
Sometimes clients have a speci c design request, like a business logo. Other times, clients just give her a general idea and Kim takes it from there.
≈ PHOTO:
hat started as a fun hobby evolved into a passionate creative outlet for Kim Stewart.
She also loves life on the river after recently moving to Homosassa with her husband Woody. “We sh and just enjoy cruising and relaxing on the boat,” says Kim. When they’re not on the boat, Kim can usually be found working in her “cup room.”
“I love working with mica powder and glitters. I love all the sparkles!” says Kim, who does all her designs by hand, and is constantly seeking newBeachinspiration.sunsets are among her favorite themes and images, simply because of the colors.
Depending on the design, number of layers and curing time, each cup can take a week or longer to make. “Once a cup is nished, the nal coat of epoxy has to cure for several days. It’s a little bit of a process,” explains Kim.
“Law enforcement is a bit stressful, so this became a good outlet,” says Kim. “It’s very time consuming, but I love the creativity of it and the excitement from the customer when they get their nished cup.”
LOCAL TALENT “I LOVE ALL SPARKLES!”THE — KIM STEWART
SHOPPING
Takin’ care of business
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At one booth, Laurel Walsh, who operates Cozyheart Confections from her Tavares home, displays Fourth of July-themed cookies with blue and red icing and ice cream coneshaped cookies with red, white, and blue sprinkles.
“My company is based out of my home in Leesburg, so I’m very excited to have a venue like this where I can introduce my business to so many people in the community,” Paulette says. “These gals really put on a spectacular event.” Those gals are Nikki Anderson, Sheena Willis, and Erica Rew, founders of the popular Whimsy Market. As businessowners themselves, they have a soft spot in their hearts for small businesses because they’ve faced the same struggles—attracting customers, increasing brand awareness, and overcoming nancial hardships.
STORY: JAMES COMBS ≈ PHOTOS: NICOLE HAMEL AND CINDY PETERSON
Three women create a unique shopping experience to help small companies flourish.
ATTRACTIONS
A group of curious onlookers gather around Krissy Aviles as she spreads homemade pizza sauce and pepperoni onto a our tortilla.
Paulette Presutto, owner of Grandma’s Greetings, draws fanfare with her selection of colorful, handmade greeting cards. One of her imaginative designs is a “Happy Birthday Mom” card shaped like a woman’s dress with a pearl necklace and three buttons down the middle.
“We grew a community of people who really wanted to help each other be successful,” Erica says. “When you
n a Thursday night in late June, Whimsy Market hosts a Girl’s Night Out event to showcase femaleowned businesses. A long line stretches outside buildingcombwaresproudlyInside,VenetianLeesburg’sCenter.vendorsdisplaytheirwhileshoppersthroughthespacioussearchingforgoods.
Kristy, owner of Pizzadilla Grill in Orlando, combines cheesy pizzas and crispy quesadillas into one.
Their venture started in August 2020 when Erica created Whimsy Wa e (a play o the word ra e), an online community of more than 4,000 people connecting buyers to small businessowners. Erica recruited Nikki and Sheena to help her run the group.
Shoppers like Barbara often ask the same question: When will the next market be held? That question puts a smile on the faces of Nikki, Sheena, and Erica, who work tirelessly to help Lake County’s small business owners gain visibility and name recognition while juggling the demands of running their own companies. Nikki, a baker who resides in Leesburg, owns Nikki’s Sweet Cakes. Sheena, who lives in Tavares, creates custom T-shirts and throughapparelher company, My Emma’s Line and Boutique. Erica, of Altamonte Springs, is owner of For You by Rew and makes oral wreaths and door hangers. As for their Whimsy Market roles, Nikki serves as vendor coordinator, Sheena is venue coordinator, and Erica oversees Whimsy Wa e.
Leesburg resident Barbara MacLean wholeheartedly agrees. She attended her rst Whimsy Market during the Girl’s Night Out event. An avid shopper, she was impressed with the large selection of products for purchase like tumblers, T-shirts, jewelry, and“Thisartwork.event is highly organized, very e cient, and extremely accommodating,” she says. “There’s really a positive vibe. Everyone is enthusiastic and smiling.”
Corneringthemarket
—NIKKI ANDERSON
“Our smallest venues can hold 35 vendors, while our largest venues can hold up to 150 vendors,” Nikki says. “We put on the best presentation and experience for those vendors, and in return they put on the best experience for our customers.”
PUT ON THE BEST PRESENTATION AND EXPERIENCE FOR THOSE VENDORS, AND IN RETURN THEY PUT ON THE BEST EXPERIENCE FOR OUR CUSTOMERS.”
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“When you’re a small business owner and have struggles, it’s never fun to take on those struggles by yourself,” Sheena says. “But with Whimsy Wa e and Whimsy Market, you grow with a team. I cry at the end of every market because I have a great day, vendors have a great day, and shoppers have a great day.” Visit whimsy-market.com to see Whimsy Market’s upcoming events.
“WE
“We all have a strong work ethic but di erent organizational styles,” Nikki says. “That helps keep things balanced. For instance, I enjoy making vendors happy. I walk around during the event and bring vendors water, and I’m more than willing to help them set up or tear down their booths.” For them, it’s all about empowering small businesses to achieve big success.
Photo on left: Nikki Anderson, Sheena Willis, and Erica Rew Whimsy Marketwas named byBestof352.com as thebest Annual Event/Festival in the “Thingsto Do” category.
support small businessowners, you’re putting dinner on someone’s table and putting clothes on someone’s back. Many attribute the Whimsy Wa e group for the success of their business.”
Various Lake County venues— including Sunsational Farms in Umatilla, Puzzle Ranch in Sorrento, and the Venetian Center in Leesburg—have enthusiastically hosted Whimsy Market.
Know of a cool local attraction you’d like us to feature? Contact us at least three months in advance and provide all the details to james@akersmediagroup.com
Whimsy Wa e creates online connections, but the three friends wanted to strengthen and grow those connections by hosting in-person shopping experiences where small businessowners could gather. Thus, Whimsy Market was born. Since its debut in October 2021, Whimsy Market has hosted nine themed markets designed to grow and sustain small businesses. Fourteen more markets will be held between September and December. In 2021, markets held during the holidays attracted up to 4,000 shoppers. Smaller markets draw as many as 1,000. There are bounce houses, games, ice cream, and music to keep children entertained. The organizers also invite several food trucks to ensure nobody shops hungry.
Want to read more about the lives of Mrs. Astor and Ava?
“The Social Graces” can be found at Target, Books-A-Million, Barnes and Noble, or on Amazon.
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REVIEW
‘The Social Graces’
his meticulously researched novel transports us to The Gilded Age, beginning in 1876. The stars and adversaries of this novel are Caroline Schermerhorn Astor and Alva Smith Vanderbilt.
Alva Vanderbilt is a red-haired southern belle who can trace her family lineage to French and Scottish royalty. Alva marries William K. Vanderbilt, grandson of Cornelius Vanderbilt. She uses the Vanderbilt money to live an extravagant lifestyle. She has the largest yacht in the world, and oversees the building of lavish mansions on Fifth Avenue (next to Mrs. Astor), and Newport, Rhode Island. Her string of pearls is rumored to have belonged to Catherine the Great. Mrs. Astor considers Alva part of the nouveau riche, and as such, is not invited to any of Mrs. Astor’s balls. Alva strives for years to usurp Mrs. Astor’s superiority over “The Four Hundred,” a list of society’s crème de la crème. Alva decides to throw her own gala for 1,200 people, a costume ball rumored to cost $3 million. At the last minute, Alva relents and invites Mrs. Astor.
STORY: KATHY PORTER
BOOK CLUB
By Reneé Rosen. A fascinating story about two women obsessed with their socialite statuses.
Alva’s major triumph is getting funding for the new Metropolitan Opera House. She works with the architects and oversees many of the details for the building. After her scandalous divorce from Vanderbilt, Alva marries August Belmont, and becomes a staunch supporter of women’s su rage. Rosen brings these two sparring women to life. They were obsessed with society and wealth, but we are amazed to discover they both were devoted mothers. However, there is no question that their excesses give us great pause. This is a fascinating look into the lives of two of the most prominent women of their time.
Mrs. Astor, as she is always addressed, is descended from the original Dutch Knickerbocker settlers, and as such, is the Grande Dame of New York City’s old money. Her famous balls include only those she considers the elite of society–women who sport the most ostentatious gowns aglow with diamonds and jewels. Extravagant ower arrangements ll the townhouse. Champagne ows like a stream in spring, guests are served elaborate ninecourse meals, and they dance until dawn. Monday nights, the group attends the opera at the Academy of Music, a building in dire need of renovation. Mrs. Astor never arrives until the second act, and like a queen holds court from her velvet box during intermission.
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GIRLS JUST WANNA HAVE FUN @ LEESBURG ≈ PHOTOS: CINDY PETERSON. Whimsy Market hosted an event at Leesburg’s Venetian Center showcasing female businesses. A long formed outside the venue as enthusiastic shoppers anxiously awaited to browse artwork, jewelry, handmade greeting cards, and scented candles sold by vendors. Several food trucks outside ensured nobody shopped hungry. lakeandsumterstyle.com.onphotosallviewtocodethisScan WHERE'SMYPIC?! HI, SOCIETY! Mellisa McHaffie with Crafted Scent Bar Amber Smith of Happy Homesteads Britt Burns, Kayle Woods and Devin Burns with SkinWorthy Christy and Chris Johnson of Captain Crazy’s Nuts & Fine Snacks Erica Rew, Nikki Anderson, and Sheena Willis 082 / LAKEANDSUMTER STYLE .COM SEP'22
InjectionsChiropracticAcupuncture SCHEDULE YOUR APPOINTMENT TODAY! 352 . 259.0024 legacyclinic.org 1950 Laurel Manor Dr., Ste. 204, The Villages | info@legacyclinic.org Dr. John Theeck D.C. Chiropractic Physician Dr. Tim Clarrey D.C. Chiropractic Physician Dr. Aaron Perry D.O.M. Doctor of Oriental Medicine Dr. Chris Kessler D.C. Chiropractic Physician Live your best life without PAIN or PAIN KILLERS! Legacy Clinic, located in the heart of The Villages®, is an award-winning integrative clinic featuring highly qualified doctors, therapists, and technicians cooperatively working to o er a wide variety of services. The entire team is focused on providing the precise care and attention needed to help patients feel their best and achieve their overall health goals.
Denise Baugh and Michelle Archer
Lisa Kelty
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OPEN
Kathy Long Lance and Kristi Bell
lakeandsumterstyle.com.onphotosallviewtocodethisScan WHERE'SMYPIC?! HI, SOCIETY!
Jiselle Paulino, Adria Bell and Bryson Torres
@ EUSTIS ≈ PHOTOS: CINDY PETERSON. A ribbon-cutting ceremony was held to o cially welcome Cozy Corner Treasures to downtown Eustis. Lisa Kelty, who opened the company 2.5 years ago, outgrew her space and decided to join the downtown Eustis community. Her company sells chalk mineral paint, Myra bags, soy candles, sauces, soaps, lotions, gift baskets, and re nished furniture. Those who attended the ribbon-cutting ceremony were treated to food and giveaways.
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Elijah Germain and Melissa James
County Commissioner Josh Blake Pam Jones
HI, SOCIETY! lakeandsumterstyle.com.onphotosallviewtocodethisScan WHERE'SMYPIC?! A PROPER ENDING @ TAVARES ≈ PHOTOS: NICOLE HAMEL. County o cials, members of the Lake County Historical Society, and other local leaders gathered together to retire tattered American ags that once ew high in Lake County, and others brought forth by the community. The ceremony, led by Carey Baker, which took place at the Lake County Historic Courthouse in Tavares on July 26, was the culminating event for Lake County’s “Pride in America Month.”
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Arthur Becton Carey Baker
Scott and Velma Dawson and Major Skott Jensen
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CENTRAL FLORIDA PLASTIC SURGERY PlasticBoardAmericanofSurgery PlasticSocietyAmericanofSurgeons American Society for PlasticAestheticSurgery SurgeonsCollegeAmericanof drserra.com | 352-259-0722 Lake Sumter Landing Professional Plaza | 910 Old Camp Rd. Suite 142 | The Villages M.D. FACS LAKE SUMTER LANDING PROFESSIONAL PLAZA | 910 OLD CAMP RD., SUITE 142 | THE VILLAGES, FL 32162 drserra.com | 352-259-0722 AmericAn Society of PlAStic SurgeonS AmericAn Society of AeSthetic PlAStic Surgery AmericAn BoArd of PlAStic Surgery AmericAn college of SurgeonS drserra.com In a younger face, we typically see the heart-shape or V-shape look of youth. With age, gravity, and loss of skin elasticity, we can observe the stigmata of old age: nasolabial and marionette lines, jowl formation, and a turkey gobbler neck. We can reestablish that heart-shaped look of youth with Face and Neck Lift with Smartlipo. This procedure combines a face and neck lift with laser liposuction along the jawline and neck using Smartlipo technology. With today’s modern technology, you can truly look on the outside the way you feel on the inside. Call for your free consultation with Dr. Serra to find out if Face and Neck Lift with Smartlipo is right for A New You! CENTRAL FLORIDA PLASTIC SURGERY A PLASTIC SURGERY SPECIALTY BOUTIQUE At Central Florida Plastic Surgery, we can help! Stretched out or elongated earlobes caused by years of wearing heavy earrings or trauma can be fixed. Our relatively easy and painless inoffice procedure can help you get back to enjoy wearing them once again. Call our office today to schedule Consultation!Complimentaryyour A SURGERYPLASTIC SPECIALTY BOUTIQUE Miss wearing your favorite pair of earrings?
MIND. BODY. SPIRIT.
healthy living
Dr. Richard
provokingwell-researched,Bosshardt’sthought-Facebookpostsoverthegovernment’scoronavirusresponsearenothingtosneezeat.
Local
“The vaccines were the biggest human experiment in the history of mankind,” he says. “We now know the vaccine does not prevent getting COVID or prevent the transmission of COVID.”
coronavirus
Many disagreed with Dr. Anthony Fauci, head of the U.S. National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, who was in uential in shaping the White House’s coronavirus response. Dr. Bosshardt shared their perspectives on his Facebook page and his blog, beyondplasticmd.com.
Images of lawmakers not wearing masks at public events left Dr. Bosshardt“Politiciansfrustrated.enactlaws that force us to wear masks, yet somehow they think they’re exempt,” he says. “It’s absolutely ridiculous.”
“Both epidemiologists and public health specialists were saying that we’re going to kill people with these lockdowns,” Dr. Bosshardt says. “I couldn’t just sit back and say nothing. It is my attempt to get information out there to counter what the prevailing narrative is. My writings are not based on my personal opinion; they are based on the expertise of epidemiologists whom I’ve researched and contacted. I share that information so people can make the best health care decisions forDr.themselves.”Bosshardt is vocal about the devastating ripple e ects brought on by the lockdown. He views the lockdown not as a trade-o between lives and the economy but rather lives and “Therelives.have been lives lost to suicides and overdoses brought on by nancial ruin,” he says. “There have been lives lost because patients with illnesses other than coronavirus struggled to nd adequate treatments in an overwhelmed health care system.” In other posts, he voices his frustration over the astonishing display of mask mandate hypocrisy.
STORY: JAMES COMBS ≈ PHOTO: NICOLE HAMEL INSPIRATION Do you know someone who is a healthy inspiration? Email your recommendations to james@akersmediagroup.com “MY WRITINGS ARE NOT BASED ON MY THEAREOPINION;PERSONALTHEYBASEDONEXPERTISEOFEPIDEMIOLOGISTSWHOMI’VERESEARCHEDANDCONTACTED.” —DR.BOSSHARDTRICHARD 090 / LAKEANDSUMTER STYLE .COM SEP'22
Today, Dr. Bosshardt continues writing about coronavirus topics and generates plenty of discussion. Much like the virus, his posts spread far and wide. People who are not his Facebook friends often comment on his posts. “I have people comment whom I’ve never heard of,” he says. voice unmasked doctor speaks out against the government’s response.
PEOPLE A
Though he’s not an anti-vaxxer, he does question the ethics and e ectiveness behind vaccine mandates.
alking about the shiedBosshardtbuttouchyvaccinecoronavirusisasubject,Dr.Richardhasn’tawayfrom addressing the controversial topic. In fact, you could say he’s given it his best shot. The Tavares plastic surgeon has spent countless hours writing about coronavirus-related topics since March 2020 when his practice was deemed a nonessential business and closed for six weeks. The shutdown a orded him ample time to research what reputable epidemiologists were saying about the virus and subsequent economic lockdowns.
If you are a female, you may qualify for the most advanced evaluation and treatment NO COST!AT
BODY A to Zinc, what’s a body to think?! STORY: ROXANNE BROWN WINNING COMBINATION 092 / LAKEANDSUMTER STYLE .COM SEP'22
along with “eating out” by going to restaurants with drive-thru windows and/or curbside pick-up. ‘Social distancing’ became one of the most commonly-used phrases of the year.
“When we take vitamin D and Zinc, and science shows it, they can modulate and strengthen your immune system, and make you bounce back faster after any exposure or illness,” Lori says. “We can’t prove that those vitamins or
Lori Esarey, APRN and owner of Total Nutrition and Therapeutics in Lady Lake, concurs that vitamins and supplements remain in high demand.
“I will say that COVID has been very interesting. There has been this big niche to become more open-minded to taking supplements,” Lori says. “In fact, people have become eager to learn what they can be doing to help their immune systems become more resistant to viruses, bacteria and illnesses in general.”
Lori says there were times when vitamin D and Zinc were impossible to come by since they were touted as the most bene cial supplements for reducing the duration and severity of the COVID virus.
When reports circulated about the importance of boosting immune systems to help ward o or overcome COVID-19 and other illnesses as quickly as possible, people began paying closer attention to what foods they were consuming and whether they were eating healthy enough. The pandemic also prompted a spike in walking and exercise, even if it meant doing it outdoors for a time. Throughout the nation, people began turning to doctors, nutritionists, and health food coaches with questions about the most bene cial vitamins, minerals, and dietary supplements to boost immune health. In fact, during the height of the pandemic, vitamin supplements ew o shelves almost as quickly as toilet paper. And popularity of vitamins continues to this day according to Gretta Ellis, an advanced practice and“Wedisease.areactually huge on prevention and getting immune support in place so that if you do get sick with COVID, or anything else, then your immune system is able to ght it o naturally,” Gretta explains.
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BODY minerals have kept a person from getting COVID, because how do you know? But what I can say we know for sure is when a person is more nutritionally sound, when they are not nutritionally devoid or de cient, our immune systems work much more e Accordingectively.”toLori, the bottom line is that people should make a habit of eating nutritionally dense foods on a daily basis to promote good health. That said, she strongly encourages supplementation.“Attheendofthe day, I think we all know that our food is just not as nutritionally dense as it once was, and that’s where supplementation comes in,” Lori says. “By taking vitamins, you are supplementing your diet and lling in the nutritional gaps we all create every day because we either don’t like certain foods or we microwave or overcook all of our stu .”
“Focusing on cutting out sugars and a lot of complex carbohydrates is really big for cutting in ammation and helping the immune system, but we also recommend high quality vitamins for immune support,” Gretta says. “Usually, health food stores carry good quality vitamins and basically, you get what you pay for. With some of the cheap vitamins, you can be doing more harm than good, because you are mainly getting llers and preservatives.”
Gretta and Lori take vitamins daily. Both also take (as well as recommend) a daily probiotic that contains live cultures, for good gut and immune“Probiotics,health.believe it or not, not only help with your immune system, but they help with anxiety and depression because having all the good bacteria in your stomach helps produce serotonin, or the good happy feelings,” Gretta says. “And just like the vitamins, make
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SUPPLEMENTINGVITAMINS,TAKINGYOUAREYOURDIETANDFILLINGINTHENUTRITIONALGAPSWEALLCREATEEVERYDAY.”
—LORI ESAREY, MS, APRN-C, FAARFM,
Gretta agrees. She says people should— rst and foremost—make healthy food choices to prevent sicknesses and boost immune health, but at the same time, should supplement their diets with a good vitamin regimen.
“BY
However, she does warn that not all vitamins are created equal.
When Lori gets sick with COVID, or another virus, she doubles her daily vitamin dosages, and adds a daily dose of glutathione (175 milligrams), until she’s better.
• If you feel your immune system is “tired,” consider IV therapy (Myers Cocktail, or IV mini with or without glutathione) for extra support.
sure you always get a good quality probiotic.”
Lori says her recommendation for daily vitamins includes Vitamin C (1,000 milligrams), Vitamin D (5,000 to 10,000 milligrams), Zinc (20 milligrams), a good multi-vitamin, and Fish Oil (4,000 milligrams). She also says people should consider N-Acetyl Cysteine (NAC), good for anyone with chronic immune system challenges or when exposed to a sickness, since it helps the body produce L Glutathione, which she calls “the mother of all antioxidants.”
“I absolutely do believe in vitamins, but I also believe that you have to be an informed consumer regarding the quality and your unique chemistry and needs,” Lori says. “You have to respect supplements because they a ect your physiology and going cheap can end up being the most expensive supplement you ever purchased because perhaps it harms you or hurts you in some way.”
“I would love to say that all of us eat well, exercise, and do all the right things so we won’t get sick, but at the end of the day, none of us are immune to any disease, so we all have to do our daily work,” Lori says. “That means getting plenty of sleep, drinking plenty of water, eating good, quality, healthy foods, and supplementation.”
• Don’t run your body down. Try to reduce stress where you can.
• Take advantage of an infrared sauna. If you don’t have access to one then go soak up some sunshine.
• Exercise daily. Your immune system needs you moving.
Gretta says her daily vitamin routine, used for preventative measures, includes Vitamin C (1,000 milligrams), Vitamin D-3 (5,000 milligrams), and Zinc (50 milligrams with food). She also says B12 vitamins are good for in ammatory response.
Lori urges people to seek out the most current research and expert advice on vitamin supplements, because vitamins work best when uniquely tailored to your individual needs.
function:torecommendationsLifestyleimproveimmune
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• Eat diverse vegetables and atincludingphytonutrientsrootvegetablesleastoneperday.
Gretta says that at Ellis Integrative Family Practice, she and her sta customize a plan with each patient. Should one get sick however, she o ers a Vitamin IV to get the immune system back on track. She says when vitamins are given intravenously, they go directly into the bloodstream instead of being absorbed by the stomach, which means they don’t worsen nausea and vomiting.
Lastly, she suggests seeking professional advice before starting on a vitamin regimen to avoid the risk of side e ects, prescription drug interactions, and improper dosing.
In addition to making those changes, being an informed consumer is vitally important. She says people should make sure vitamins are high quality. Look for NSF or ANSI certi cations on bottles.
• Avoid gluten. Your gut is ground zero of your immune system and needs to be healthy.
• Get good quality sleep, preferably around 7-8 hours per night.
“The vitamin IV is basically a big vitamin cocktail. It’s called immunity and if you get COVID, the u, or any sickness, I meet you outside and I hook it up to you right on the side of our building,” Gretta says. “We have been fortunate to have kept all of our patients out of the hospital doing the IVs outside and getting them on immune support vitamins.”
Because of that, she believes purchasing vitamins online may not be a good idea because you cannot be sure where they are coming from or how they have been stored. Temperature and humidity, if not adjusted properly, can compromise vitamin quality. Locally, she says health food stores and medical o ces are better options than drugstores and big box stores for vitamin purchases. For probiotics, look for quality and live (good) bacteria and ensure they are not past their prime.
“Just as prescriptions can cause side e ects as well as bene ts, so can supplements, so get an expert’s help so that, number one, you’re not wasting money, and number two, you’re getting the results you are looking for,” Lori concludes.
Compassionate Pet Care From Your Other Doctor!Family • New Puppy And Kitten Exams • Yearly Wellness Exams • Flea And Heartworm Prevention • Yearly Blood Screening • Maintaining A Healthy Geriatric Pet • Cold Laser Therapy • Regenerative Stem Cell Therapy Services Dr. Erwin-OliverCara
FOOD. DRINKS. REVIEWS. The Villages’ Back Porch Mulberry offers finedining-level food and drink options at prices sure to lift your spirits.
A wonderlandchocolate KKÔ Chocolate creates beautifully scrumptious works of art in Mount Dora.
RECIPE
FROM THE BOTTOM UP Gabriel originally worked at the front of the house but would come in early before shift to help prep in the“Thekitchen.chef always complained about cutting onions, so I told him to teach me and I’d do it,” Gabriel says. “I worked my way up through that kitchen and ended up becoming the restaurant manager for twoGabrielkitchens.”fellin love with cooking, especially desserts. So he decided to make the move to a local co ee shop to focus on his dessertmaking skills as a pastry chef.
LOVE IN THE KITCHEN Gabriel and Eugene met in 2012 at their jobs in a restaurant in Puerto Rico. Gabriel was putting himself through nursing and paramedic school when he realized his true passion was in the kitchen. Eugene was doing graphic design and marketing. The two fell in love and have been together ever since. They were married in 2017 and have two boys.
“It starts at the cocoa bean,” Gabriel says. “They have to be roasted and sundried and where they come from makes a di erence. We get ours from Fiji but we are always shipping beans in from around the world, so we can taste them and make sure we get only the best.”
“I am always pushing myself,” Gabriel says. “I don’t have a background in culinary so I’m always working twice as hard to make it perfect.”Gabrielattended a master class to study under a top-notch master chef to gain more knowledge. Although
Selecting the best beans is only the beginning. Making chocolate is not a quick process. It takes several days to get everything exactly right, which is just what Gabriel and Eugene do right in their downtown Mount DoraTheirlocation.kitchen even has a window for passersby to peek through if wanting to witness parts of the process or catch a glimpse of the chocolatiers in action.
ot chocolateall is created equal, which is why husband and wife team Gabriel Maysonet and Eugene Colón set out to make only the nest chocolate desserts they could imagine.
IN THE KITCHEN
STORY AND PHOTOS: CINDY PETERSON Gabriel Maysonet and Eugene Colón
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TASTETHEAROUNDSHIPPINGALWAYSARE[COCOA]BEANSINFROMWORLDSOWECANTHEMANDMAKESUREWEGETONLYTHEBEST.” MAYSONET—GABRIEL
“She seemed hesitant but allowed me to make it. I didn’t stop until I became the only person who she allowed to make the chocolate.” Instead, they made the tough decision to leave their family and move to Central Florida to build their business from the ground up.
“WE
Pinchsugargranulatedofsaltcupsoftbuttercupcreamcheese
DIRECTIONS Melt the chocolate with the oil. Add Feuilletine. Mix well and press
1/2 cup condensed milk
DIRECTIONS Hydrate the gelatin in water. Mix water, orange juice, and lemon juice in a pot. Mix butter, cream cheese, crème fraiche, sugar and salt in the bowl of a food processor and mix until creamy and no lumps remain. Boil the liquids and add the gelatin. Add the liquid to the cream cheese mixture in the food processor. Beat the cream until soft peak. Fold the cream into the cream cheese mixture.
2 tsp lemon juice cup
1 3/8 cup cake flour
1/4 tsp salt
2 tbsp fraichecrèmecupheavycream
DIRECTIONS Mix everything using the reverse creaming method: Sift the cake flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt in the bowl of a stand mixer. With the paddle attachment, mix the ingredients together. Add the butter, vanilla, and half of the milk. Mix until the dry ingredients are moistened. The mixture will resemble a thick dough. Whisk the remaining milk, the sour cream, and eggs together in a medium bowl. Add the egg mixture in 3 additions, some small lumps are OK. Bake at 350F for approximately 15-20 minutes. Set aside. This recipe has five components to make individually before assembling. Some components require overnight refrigeration, so allow enough time before assembling.
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toinforwithparchmentbetweenpaper.Cutacookiecutterdesiredsize.Setfreezeruntilreadyuse.
1/2 tsp baking soda
1/3 tsp vanilla bean paste
1/3 cup glucose
MOUSSECHEESECREAM INGREDIENTS
2 ea bronze gelatin cup water
1/4 cup neutral glaze
GUAVA CAKE INGREDIENTS
2/3 cup sugar
GUAVA & CHEESEPETIT GÂTEAU IN THE KITCHEN
1 tbsp citric acid solution
1/2 tsp baking powder
DIRECTIONS Hydrate gelatin. Mix water, sugar and glucose in a pot. Put the chocolate, condensed milk and neutral glaze in a tall container. Boil the liquid mixture and add the gelatin. Pour the liquid mixture in the chocolate mixture. Emulsify with a hand blender. Let rest in the fridge overnight.
1/2 cup butter 1 tbsp beanvanillapaste
1/2 cup whole milk 1/3 cup sour cream 2 eggs 1/2 cup guava shells
2 tbsp + 1 tsp orange juice
1 cup chocolatewhite
DIRECTIONS Mix the first sugar with the pectin to prevent lumps. Boil the puree. Add the sugar/pectin mixture. Add glucose. Add the second sugar. Cook to 105C. Let it set overnight. Crush in a food processor when ready to use. Citric acid solution = 50/50 water to citric acid (dissolved). Important that the mixture keeps boiling when adding each of the ingredients.
Hey, Do you have favorite recipes or know a chef we should profile? Comment this article or send story ideas to editorial@akersmediagroup.com
KKÔ Chocolate’s rst storefront opened inside the Renaissance Building in downtown Mount Dora nearly a year ago. At rst, they occupied only the side with the kitchen, where they made and sold their desserts in a small space. Soon, however, they took over the space across the hall for their retail location, which o ers a great view of the chocolate-making process.
While the basic rst step to all their desserts is chocolate, this chocolate boutique o ers much more than just their signature chocolate bars. All chocolates and desserts are hand-crafted to perfection and often take days to create. The most popular item they sell are chocolate bonbons, which come in gift boxes of six, 12, or 25 pieces with your choice of avors. Classic avors are pecan caramel bourbon, salted caramel, raspberry, peanut butter, toasted coconut, co ee, and vanillaSpecialty,bean.rotating avors include Irish cream ganache and butterscotch, mango and passion fruit, balsamic strawberry and cream cheese ganache and mango habanero. They also o er specialty avors for the holidays.
ASSEMBLY
“It has really taken o ,” Gabriel says. “We were instantly welcomed here, and even in the slow summer months we are still doing pretty well.”
“It was probably the worst time to move, considering we were in a pandemic,” Gabriel says. “Everyone thought we were crazy, but we felt it was the right move.”
Hours: sales.kkochocolate@gmail.com11am-7pm;11am-5pm;Tuesday-ThursdayFriday-SaturdaySunday11am-5pm352.729.6346
Other creations include chocolate covered strawberries, petit gateau cakes, ice cream pops, hazelnut pro teroles (cream pu s), tarts and chocolate mousse cups. Be sure to keep an eye out for their signature edible gold. Every creation will have an element of gold in it somewhere.
YOUIFGO KKÔ CHOCOLATE 411 N Donnelly St., Suite 104-105 Mount Dora, FL
on
SWEET TREATS
CREATING KKÔ CHOCOLATE
Gabriel began making his luxury chocolates and ne desserts from home and sold them through social media. Eugene jumped on the promotion side, concentrating on marketing with photos and a website. One day, while delivering an order to Mount Dora, Eugene fell in love with the downtown charm and small-town feel that reminded them of home. “We knew we didn’t want to live in the city and felt this was the perfect place for us,” Eugene says.
Put the croquant in the bottom of the ring. With a piping bag pour a bit of mousse. Add the cake. Pour more mousse. With a piping bag, make a layer with the crushed pâte de fruit. Pour more mousse to seal. Freeze overnight. Heat and emulsify the glaze with a hand blender and pour over the mousse. Decorate with pieces of chocolate as desired. Enjoy.
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readers!
But Gabriel’s dream doesn’t end“I’mthere.always trying to gure out how to improve,” Gabriel says. “Someday I want to host classes and demonstrations here and keep o ering new and unique items and avors. We are constantly playing with new things.”
The couple moved to Altamonte Springs with their two boys to nd a better opportunity for their business.
“We went with a sports bar concept, but it’s several notches above the average in this sector, both in food quality and service,” Philippe says. If that’s not enough to immediately elicit a trip to The Back Porch, perhaps knowing more about the team is.
efore even stepping inside, The Back Porch Mulberry’s vibe is appealing, starting with the building’s restaurant’s doors, the appeal is intensi ed by a friendly and welcoming sta , a beautiful and if they are passing through on their way to the fairway. Then, there’s a fully stocked ‘open bar’ – literally – with walls that roll up like a garage door to incorporate the outside patio with inside amenities, so no guest misses a thing. That includes live musical entertainment 4-8 p.m. on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays, and for “WineDown Wednesdays,” when bottles of wine are thePhilippeduringhalf-pricedthosehours.BackPorchownerVillaindescribesvenueasasportsbar with a twist. The menu is chock full of specialty drinks and food selections you’ll nd at a ne-dining establishment, but at more competitive prices.
FORK ON THE ROAD REVIEW BANG FOR YOUR BUCK
“Eat Well, Live Happy” exemplified at The Back Porch Mulberry in The Villages.
STORY: ROXANNE BROWN ≈ PHOTOS: NICOLE HAMEL
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Philippe, who’s worked in hospitality with Disney and
Let’s do lunch or dinner
“We can easily buy some of this stu , but we don’t, because when you make it yourself, it’s just better, and that’s what it’s all about,” Francis says. “Doing it up to the highest quality possible is a lot of work, but at the same time, it’s what makes us stand out.” In the end, we ordered the Hangover, a pleasingly messy burger topped with cheddar cheese, bacon, fried egg, and BBQ sauce served with yummy fries, and the stacked with goodness Mile High Club, which left us licking our lips trying to decipher the secret sauce, but what happened next was a childhood dream come true! Since we’d mentioned how excited we were about the heavenly sounding desserts, and to ensure we wouldn’t be too full after our entrees to enjoy them, Francis had our picks – white chocolate bread pudding with whiskey sauce and vanilla ice cream, and strawberry cotton cake served with vanilla custard, red berry sauce, and powdered sugar – brought to our table rst thing while our entrees were still being prepared. And what a treat that was! Next, appetizers. We had jalapeno cheese bites, and The Back Porch colossal cheese sticks, then our entrees, and everything was so could get out between bites, were “Oh my God,” and “mmmmm.” Above all, Nicole and I agreed our favorite dish was Francis’ mushroom soup. It was rich, avorful, and loaded with mushrooms, and I would return in a hot minute for another bowl. With that, Phillippe says they are grateful to be in The Villages and are preparing to open another restaurant in the Marketplace at Sawgrass.
Francis Metais, Philippe
ROXANNE BROWN YOUIFGO THE BACK MULBERRYPORCH 8761 SE 165th Mulberry Ln., The Villages Hours: 11:30am-8pm;Monday-SundayHappyHourfrom11:30am-6pm407.625.7766backporchmulberry.com “WE’RE ALL ABOUT QUALITY, GUEST EXPERIENCE AND SATISFACTION.” —PHILIPPE VILLAIN
“The main reason we wanted to come to The Villages is that we think the Villagers are really a neat bunch of people,” Philippe says. “They have a great attitude, and they’re living happily, so in our style of trying to please people with good food, fun and company, it’s the perfect t.”
Mathew Farlow and
Tell us about a great restaurant by emailing roxanne@akersmediagroup.com
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DINING GUIDE BeefBUSHNELL‘O’Brady’s 2586 W CR 352.568.700048 Darryl’s Diner 2237 W CR 352.444.231848 AkinaCLERMONTSushiBar & Asian Fusion Bistro 4300 S. U.S. Hwy. 27 352.243.8988 Ay Jalisco 580 Hwy 352.243.136050 Cheeser’s Palace Café 707 W. Montrose St. 352.404.9431 Crooked GastropubSpoon 200 Citrus Tower Blvd. 352.404.7808 Gators Dockside 1200 Oakley Seaver Dr. 352.242.1825 Goomba’s Pizzeria 2395 S. Hwy 352.989.440327 Green Mountain Pizza 303 Hwy. 352.432.338050 Lilly’s on the Lake 846 W. Osceola St. 352.708.6565 SmokehouseOakwood & Grill 230 Citrus Tower Blvd. 352.394.0036 Robata Japanese Steak House & Sushi Bar 1500 Oakley Seaver Dr. 352.404.9688 Sarah’s CuisineGreek&More 16640 Cagan Crossings Blvd., Ste. 352.404.8031305 GatorsEUSTISDockside 15241 US Hwy 441 352.357.1255 Stavro’s & Sons of Eustis 2100 W. CR 352.589.910044 Taki’s Pizza House 2824 S. Bay 352.357.0022St. The Oyster Tro 936 N. Bay 352.357.9939St. Tony’s Pizza & Subs 2760 E. Orange Ave. 352.589.9001 FRUITLAND PARK NY Deli N Diner 3325 U.S. Hwy. 441 352.365.0051 Rae Rae’s Restaurant 2468 U.S. Hwy. 441 352.323.1595 Stavro’s 3223 US Hwy. 441 352.315.0028 RedGROVELANDWingRestaurant 12500 S. SR 352.429.299733 BarJBHOWEY-IN-THE-HILLSBoondocks&Grill 704 S. Lakeshore Blvd. 352.324.3600 La RestaurantHacienda 10400 CR 352.324.391048 Nicker’s RestaurantClubhouse 10400 CR 352.324.271848 LADY BambooLAKEBistro 700 Hwy. 352.750.9998441 El Ranchito 1 Lagrande 352.750.3335Blvd. Harbor CountryHillsClub 6538 Lake Griffin Rd. 352.753.7000 Marco’s Pizza 13721 US Hwy 441 352.775.1500 Mom & Dad’s Italian Restaurant 504 S. U.S. Hwy. 441/27 352.753.2722 SmokehouseOakWood & Grill 860 S. Hwy 352.751.564027/441 Takis Greek and Italian Restaurant 13761 U.S. Hwy. 441 N. 352.430.3630 Brooklyn’sLEESBURGPizzeria 27405 US Highway 27 352.728.2020 Cousin Vinnie’s Family Sports Restaurant 10700 U.S. Hwy. 441 352.253.2442 Donut King 708 S. 14th 352.805.4888St. El Ranchito Mexican Cuban Restaurant 911 W. North 352.314.9339Blvd. Fire Rock Pizza 712 W Main St., Ste. 5 352.605.6123 Great Chicago Fire Brewery & Tap Room 311 W. Magnolia St. 352.474.2739 Ichiban Bu et 10301 Hwy. 352.728.6669441 Mammoth Oak Brewing Company 1107 W. North Blvd. 352.326.0100 Mystic Ice Cream 314 W. Main 352.812.1366St. Naples RestaurantItalian 1107 W. North Blvd. 352.323.1616 SmokehouseOakwood & Grill 2775 U.S. 352.435.463327 Rodello’s RestaurantItalian 26736 US Hwy. 27 352.319.8093 San Jose’s Original Mexican Restaurant 1337 S. 14th 352.805.4174St. The Brick & Barrel Public House 209 W. Main 352.431.3069St. The PlantationRose An early 20th Century dining experience. 200 Rose 352.805.4340Ave. RestaurantGuru 2400Award-WinningIndianCuisineSHwy27Suite 101 352.241.9884 La MexicanPalmaGrill Old-school traditions from Mexico combined with inspirations from California and Louisiana. 1690 Citrus 352.323.1444Blvd. From classic diners and lakeside restaurants to fine dining and everything in-between, Lake County’s culinary scene is booming. Your favorite meal is sure to be served with a side of hospitality. You can find a copy of Lake & Sumter Style at all listed dining locations! DINE eats 104 / LAKEANDSUMTER STYLE .COM SEP'22
The Co ee Snob 1101 W North 352.460.4570Blvd The Old Time Diner 1350 W. North Blvd. 352.805.4250 The Ranch 10601 US 441, C12 352.901.6193 Wolfy’s 918 N. 14th 352.787.6777St. Water Gypsy 201 W. Main 352.435.7937St. MOUNT KitchenBarnwoodDORACountry&Smokehouse 3725 W. Old US Hwy 441 352.630.4903 Fiesta Grande 421 N. Baker 352.385.3540St. Magical BoutiqueMeat 322 N. Alexander St. 352.729.6911 Vincent’s RestaurantItalian 5914 Orange Blossom Trl. 352.735.4578 PhoOXFORDSaigon 11707 N. US Hwy. 301 352.492.9423 BellaTAVARESNonaPizzeria 280 Silverado St. 352.508.9370 BTW Tacos(Burgers,&Waes) 115 E. Main 352.508.9287St. Fish Camp Lake Eustis 901 Lake Shore Blvd. 352.742.4400 DocksideHurricaneGrill 3351 W. Burleigh Blvd. 352.508.5137 Puddle Jumpers 111 W. Ruby 352.508.5862St. Tiki West Raw Bar and Grill 118 W. Ruby 352.508.5783St. THE BrownwoodCody’sVILLAGESRoadhouse 3731 Meggison Rd 352.430.2926 Cody’s Roadhouse Lake Sumter Landing 1041 Lakeshore Dr 352.259.8500 Giovanni’s 3439 Wedgewood Lane 352.751.6674 Haagan Dazs Ice Cream 1001 Lake Shore Dr 352.751.0261 Legacy Restaurant 17135 Buena Vista Blvd. 352.753.1475 NYPD Pizzeria 4046 Wedgwood Ln 352.750.1994 Peachwave 249 Colony 352.750.2238Blvd ChocolatierPeterbrooke 1087 Canal 352.391.5877St Roberto’s Ristorante & Pizzeria 2468 Burnsed Blvd. 352.626.1059 Sakura 265 Colony 352.205.7393Blvd. Too Jays Brownwood 2835 Brownwood Blvd 352.350.2122 Too Jays Lake Sumter Landing 1129 Canal 352.430.0410Street VKI SushiSteakhouseJapaneseandBar 1004 Old Mill 352.259.9887Run TheUMATILLAMasonJar 37534 State Rd. 19 352.589.2535 Marco’sPizza Everything is made daily, even the dough and sauce! 5806 Seven Mile Dr., Ste. 101 352.571.2400 Turner’s Kitchen & Bar With the trendy, modern décor and the sleek, upscale atmosphere, visitors may assume they’re dining in a large city. However, Turners Kitchen +Bar is located in the heart of downtown Leesburg. The restaurant provides the best of both worlds—a premiere dining experience at a moderate price. Here, the food is described as “a new American concept with a hint of the South Carolina Low Country.” The lunch menu (offered from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.) offers the delicious half-pound Turner’s Burger, Ollie’s Famous Shrimpburger, and a Lowcountry Reuben. The dinner menu (offered from (5-7 p.m.) features Caramelized Diver Scallops, Sea Island Grits and Shrimp, and Sweet Potato “Q” Tuna. Prepare yourself for a wonderful dining experience matched with delicious cuisine! 114 S. 5th St. Leesburg / 352.530.2274 GRUBGOODTHISEDITOR'SMONTH'SPICK SEP'22 LAKEANDSUMTER STYLE .COM / 105
DINING GUIDE
Mon, Wed & Thu 11:00am 8:00pm 11:00amFriday 9:00pm 12:00pmSaturday– 9:00pm 12:00pmSunday 7:00pm Tuesdays
Closed
Mon –3:00pmSat– 9:00pm NoonSunday–6:00pm El Ranchito Mexican Cuban Restaurant 911 W. NORTH BLVD., LEESBURG | ELRANCHITOMEXICANCUBAN.COM352.460.0123
Guru Restaurant
When hit with a craving for authentic New York style pizza, there’s no need to catch the next flight to the Big Apple. Simply visit Brooklyn’s Pizzeria & Italian Restaurant in Leesburg and Owners James and Shawna Pancari will make you feel right at home with New York inspired vibes, décor, and flavors. Not only have they perfected the New York style thin crust people swear by, but they take pride in ensuring everything they serve is made fresh and from-scratch daily; including their pizza dough and sauces, strombolis, calzones, subs, salads, wings, specialty Italian and pasta dinners. Additionally, the restaurant is family-run and Veteran-owned, with James having served in the Coast Guard for 31 years. In honor of that, the dining room features a military wall, plus a 10 percent discount for veterans, active members of the military, police, fire, and first responders. Brooklyn’s Pizzeria also offers gluten-free pizza and pasta options, and accepts door-dash, online-ordering, catering, and curbside pickup.
Brooklyn’s Pizzeria & Italian Restaurant 27405 U.S. HWY 27, LEESBURG | 352.728.2020 & 352.365.9004 MYBROOKLYNPIZZERIA.COM
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El RestaurantRanchito 1 La Grande Blvd, The 352.750.3335Villages
Since opening in 1997, El Ranchito has been the go-to place for Lake Countians who desire delicious Mexican food. Although the restaurant was closed for nearly two years due to the coronavirus, El Ranchito’s Leesburg location officially reopened in December 2021. The restaurant is now named El Ranchito Mexican Cuban and serves genuine Mexican cuisine and a variety of Cuban entrees with entertainment on Tuesdays and Saturdays! The menu features many of the favorite dishes diners have grown to love over the years, as well as new dishes. Consider the Molcajete Caliente featuring your choice of meats grilled with onion, potato, and bell pepper, topped with cheese and salsa verde. Or try the Bistec de Palomilla with thin-sliced steak with onions and parsley that comes with a signature steak sauce. El Ranchito fans will appreciate the remodeled restaurant, which now includes a 50-seat outside patio. Despite the changes, the food remains as scrumptious as ever. Enjoy amigos!
Owned by Chef Uday Kadam, Guru has a following of fans who savor the delicious, award-winning Indian cuisine inside the restaurant’s beautiful dining room filled with Indian décor and tables with linen tablecloths. Guru earned the prestigious Best Entrée award at the 2021 Taste of South Lake & Business Expo for its Chicken Tikka Masala, featuring boneless chicken pieces cooked in a Tandoor oven with tomato sauce, onion, aromatic herbs, spices, and served with Basmati rice. Guru also has tasty appetizers, Naan breads, vegan dishes, and a wide array of entrees, including Palak Paneer, a dish of homemade cubes of cheese cooked with spinach and fresh spices; Lamb Vindaloo of choice lamb cubes marinated in vinegar with potato and a blend of spices; and Tandoori Chicken Tikka, where the chicken is marinated in mild spices and yogurt. Additionally, Indian alcoholic beverages of Taj Mahal and Kingfisher are served at Guru, and the restaurant caters private functions, parties, and provides many delivery options for orders made online at mygurutogo.com.
CLERMONT HILLSIDE TERRACE, 2400 S. U.S. 27, SUITE 101, CLERMONT 352.241.9884 | GURURESTAURANTCLERMONT.COM
Sun –11:00amSat– 10:00pm Follow us on Facebook for daily specials entertainment!and Visit our Villages location!
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5806 SEVEN MILE DRIVE SUITE 101, WILDWOOD 352.571.2400 | MARCOS.COM
BWWAAAK! It’s five somewhere!o’clock
The entire staff invites you to a delicious dining experience at La Palma Mexican Grill. The recipes used for the restaurant’s unique dishes are a blend of old-school traditions from Mexico, combined with culinary inspirations from California and Louisiana. Homemade Mexican entrees such as Tacos Azteca, carnitas, fajitas, Chori Pollo, tamales and more, are flavorful and prepared with only the freshest of ingredients. Sit comfortably in the beautiful dining room, the festive bar, or outside on the patio deck with a serene view of the grounds and of the fun wild animals that can be spotted in the trees. Enjoy fast and friendly service, reasonable prices, three-for-one margaritas all day, every day, and a party room, available by reservation, for large parties or meetings. Full menu at lapalmagrill.com. Call for daily specials.
The most delicious dishes are made with lots of love. That’s certainly the case at Marco’s Pizza, which is owned by business partners Peter Hiles and Roger Mellen. They opened the restaurant last April off County Road 466A in Wildwood and already have plans to open five additional locations. And why not? Everyone loves pizza, but they appreciate a quality pizza much more. At Marco’s Pizza, everything is made daily, including the dough and sauce. In other words, everything is fresh and never frozen. The popular three-cheese blend is another aspect that makes the pizza so satisfying. Marco’s Pizza also offers calzones, specialty pizza bowls, subs, salads, and wings. Expect to always be welcomed by a warm, friendly staff whether you dine inside the restaurant or call for delivery.
Wed –4:00pmSun– 9:00pm MondayClosed & Tuesday Full MenuGluten-Free Mom & Dad’s Italian Restaurant 352.753.2722 | 304 US-441, LADY LAKE Mom and Dad’s Italian Restaurant in Lady Lake has the distinct honor of calling itself a true family-owned restaurant. In fact, five generations of family members have represented the restaurant since its humble beginnings in May 1962. As many generations of customers have dined there throughout the years thanks to the outstanding service and scrumptious dishes such as Spaghetti a la Bruzzi, Delmonico steak, and lasagna. This food savvy family prepares everything from scratch, crafting everything with love to satisfy your taste buds.
108 / LAKEANDSUMTER STYLE .COM SEP'22
Marco’s Pizza
La Palma Mexican Grill
Sun –11:00amThu– 9:00pm Friday & Saturday 11:00am – 10:00pm Open Lunch11:00amDaily–9:00pmSpecials11:00am–3:00pm Mondays!Margarita Enjoy margaritas$5 all day every Monday.
1690 CITRUS BLVD., LEESBURG | 352.323.1444 | LAPALMAGRILL.COM
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DINING GUIDE fastalternativeTheyourrightflatbreadssalads,freshCustom-made,sandwiches,andmadebeforeeyes.“healthy”tofood.Subway SUBWAY.COM| 208 W. GUAVA ST. | 352.750.4929 | 469 PLAZA DR. | 352.357.7827 | 18870 U.S. HWY. 441 | 352.735.4376 | 2013 CITRUS BLVD. | 352.787.6442 10135 U.S. HWY. 441, SUITE 4 | 352.326.3234 27405 U.S. HWY. 27, SUITE 4 | 352.314.8847 | 1580 BELLA CRUZ DRIVE | 352.750.9600 8796 S.E. 165TH MULBERRY LANE | 352.750.9991 1070 LAKE SUMTER LANDING DRIVE | 352.205.8535 349 COLONY BLVD. | 352.391.1657 | 480 W. GULF TO ALANTIC HWY. | 352.748.8800 CALL US AT 352.787.4112 Would you like to see restaurantyour in our dining section? Open 11:00amDaily–9:00pmRodello’s Italian Restaurant 26736 U.S HIGHWAY 27, LEESBURG | 352.319.8093 | RODELLOS.COM Chef Amadeo Avila invites you to enjoy authentic and fresh Italian cuisine in a friendly, comfortable dining environment at Rodello’s Italian Restaurant. The recipes used for his dishes are a blend of old-school traditions from Italy—the restaurant is named for a city in the old country—with new culinary inspirations that Chef Amadeo has learned during many years in the restaurant business. Flavorful, homemade Italian entrees such as Pistachio Crusted Lamb, Salmon Saltimbocca, Lobster Ravioli, Shrimp Risotto, and many others are classics and prepared with only the freshest ingredients. The lunch menu features personal pizzas, calzones, subs, and pasta. Sit in the spacious dining room or enjoy drinks or desserts like delicious gelato in the cozy lounge, which features a full bar, wine menu, and an array of specialty cocktails. Always look for new features on Chef Amadeo’s menu, available on the restaurant’s website, Rodellos.com. 352.253.2442CVINNIES.COMNFLANDPACKAGESEC HOME FOR SUNDAY FOOTBALL LADY LAKE | 208 W. GUAVA ST. | 352.750.4929 EUSTIS | 469 PLAZA DR. | 352.357.7827 MOUNT DORA | 18870 U.S. HWY. 441 | 352.735.4376 LEESBURG | 2013 CITRUS BLVD. | 352.787.6442 10135 U.S. HWY. 441, SUITE 4 | 352.326.3234 27405 U.S. HWY. 27, SUITE 4 | 352.314.8847 THE VILLAGES | 1580 BELLA CRUZ DRIVE | 352.750.9600 8796 S.E. 165TH MULBERRY LANE | 352.750.9991 1070 LAKE SUMTER LANDING DRIVE | 352.205.8535 349 COLONY BLVD. | 352.391.1657 WILDWOOD | 480 W. GULF TO ALANTIC HWY. | 352.748.8800 subway.com Would you like to see your restaurant in our dining section? Call us at 352.787.4112 110 / LAKEANDSUMTER STYLE .COM SEP'22
Follow me into the forest for fantasy and fun 28598 Lady of the Lakes Ave, Tavares FL Off County Road 448 between SR 19 and CR 561, Tavares Lady of the Lakes 352.326.1265 | www.lakerenfaire.com Nov 4-6 • Nov 12-13, 2022 AT GATE: $20 adult • $10 child EDUCATION DAY: November $59:30am-3pm4withvalid ID at gate 10:00a.m. - 5:00p.m. Skip the Lines Order Online lakerenfaire.comat352.326.1265 @LakeRenFaire SENIOR DAY (OVER 62): November 6 $12 at gate VETERANS DAY: November 13 $12 Military ID GROUP SALES FOR 15 OR MORE: cullen-battc@lake.k12.fl.us PROCEEDS TO BENEFIT
Tell us, via email, at editorial@akersmediagroup.com ne of my assignments for this month’s health issue launched me on a trip back in time to the spring of 2019. It was the year before the pandemic turned the whole world upside down, but for me personally, 2019 was my life’s tipping point. On the evening of April 15, I walked out to catch the horse I’d had for 16 years and bring him up for feeding. The last thing I remember was walking him to the paddock gate. The next thing I was aware of was lying in the dirt 30 feet from the gate wondering, “Why am I lying here and where is all this blood coming from?”
Flashback Memory lane is a rocky road, but lessons in gratitude abound.
Hey, readers! Is there a subject we should write a commentary about?
I’m thankful to God that I’m still here. Still “me.” Still able to make a living doing what I love.
FINAL THOUGHT
I underwent life-saving emergency surgery about 1:30 in the morning of April 16. Somehow, I’d been kicked in the head, which resulted in a depressed skull fracture and subdural hematoma. The damage was so severe that the neurosurgeon was picking pieces of my skull from my brain. He would later admit most people don’t survive what happened to me. Those dark days in the ICU were followed by almost a month in the rehab hospital, where I learned to walk and use my left arm again. When I had a second brain surgery in mid-July to ll the hole in my skull, one of my nurses gave me a list of foods that can aid recovery from traumatic brain injury. I included some of these in my story this month and continue to eat many of them regularly. Especially the last one. Dark chocolate. The miracle is not only that I survived, but that God healed my brain so I could write full-time again. I was thrilled when the door of opportunity opened for me to once more write for Style – truly an answer to Forprayer.the record, researching foods for a healthy brain didn’t result in any ashbacks. It did, however, ood me with a fresh wave of gratitude.
STORY: CYNTHIA MCFARLAND 112 / LAKEANDSUMTER STYLE .COM SEP'22
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