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Dr. Peter Ameglio TRE ATING TH E WHOLE PERSON
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Ronald Gardner, M.D.
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Robert Martinez, M.D.
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Peter Ameglio, M.D. SPORTS MEDICINE & LOWER EXTREMITIES
Brad Castellano, DPM FOOT & ANKLE SPECIALTY
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mylivinglocal.com | DECEMBER 2018
From the
Publisher A
lthough we may not experience the chill that most parts of the country do this time of the year, I still cherish and love the holiday season; the music, celebrations, cookies and treats, and of course, all of the beautifully decorated Christmas trees. That’s why I’m excited to share the story of a longtime friend of mine, Al Mueller. He’s the man behind Uncle Al’s Christmas Trees, a well-known Southwest Florida Christmas tree lot. It’s a genuine local success story that I hope will inspire anyone who is working hard to turn a dream into reality. Featured on this month’s cover is Dr. Peter Ameglio, from Gardner Orthopedics. Dr. Ameglio is one of the most skilled orthopedic surgeons in Southwest Florida and is a physician that looks at the health of the whole person, rather than just the injury or the specific pain his patients seek resolution from. He feels blessed to do what he loves; to serve his patients and walk along side of them on their life’s journey. Many times we can get caught up in the busyness of the holiday season that we forget to step back and see those that may need a helping hand. That’s why once again we are honored to spotlight Community Cooperative. They are currently ramping up efforts to provide holiday meals to the homeless, senior citizens, and ART DIRECTOR
Teddy Tedford Teddy brings a wealth of branding, marketing and creative experience to livinglocal®. Throughout his design career he has worked with local SW Florida businesses and luxury brands across the state.
mylivinglocal.com | DECEMBER 2018
— Audrey & her son Timothy
struggling families. If you haven’t found an individual or family to give to this season, please contact them and join them in their mission. And if you are looking for a non-profit to donate financially to before year’s end, you can rest knowing Community Cooperative is an organization with a high level of integrity and accountability. In the blink of an eye the New Year will be here. Like so many of you, I’m looking forward to the beginning of something new. But for now, 2018 has been full of blessings, many of them courtesy of you---family, friends, and readers. I’m also extremely grateful to our advertisers; for their partnership and support. Thank you for your continued commitment in supporting our local businesses and for joining me in livinglocal every day! Blessings to you & your family this Christmas Season,
Audrey
LOCAL CONTRIBUTOR
Gina Birch Gina is a freelance writer for USA Today 10Best and a well-known TV & radio personality in SW Florida. Google her blog, “The Birch Beat” and follow her on Facebook & Twitter @GinaBirch.
side Inside this edition i
Dr. Peter Ameglio Gardner Orthopedics
Dr. Joseph Magnant Vein Specialists
Dr. Katrine Farag
Sean Melby
Al Mueller
Florida Everblades
Advanced Dentistry
Best Home Services
Uncle Al’s
Chef Robert Charest Wyld’s Cafe Our mission at livinglocal includes spotlighting local non-profits that are making a difference in our community. In addition to sharing their story, we also provide a monetary donation on behalf of our advertisers. This month we feature Community Cooperative, a local non-profit organization that strives to be the leader in alleviating hunger and homelessness in our community. They are an exemplary steward of the resources entrusted to them, and they serve their clients with compassion and integrity. Through collaboration and ongoing education, Community Cooperative is committed to supporting and strengthening those whose lives have been affected by hunger and homelessness. www.mylivinglocal.com
Serving Fort Myers, Estero, Bonita & Naples C O NNE CT W ITH U S
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“I like rolling up my sleeves, connecting with my patients, and helping them through their life’s journey.” Dr. Peter Ameglio
Peter Ameglio, M.D. mylivinglocal.com | DECEMBER 2018
Treating
THE WHOLE PERSON
“I like taking care of the whole patient,” says Dr. Peter Ameglio, an Orthopedic surgeon at Gardner Orthopedics. Initially sub-specializing in foot and ankle care, Dr. Ameglio moved up the leg to knees and hips. He calls it, “a natural progression to look at the entire lower extremity and how things function as a unit.”
When treating patients with foot, knee, and hip issues, Dr. Ameglio often encounters problems in the hand. For example, Dr. Ameglio has patients who present with lower extremity arthritis and will need surgery. Arthritis of the hand may make it difficult for patients to use a walker in the post-operative period. “Rather than send this patient to a hand surgeon, we
can help manage this problem as well. We are very fortunate in Fort Myers to have many highly skilled sub-specialists,” explains Dr. Ameglio. When a sub-specialist is needed, he will call on them or on one of his colleagues for help. “As Orthopedists we are experts of the musculoskeletal system; bones and joints. The profession has evolved, so as time goes by we all have our own niche or area of interest. I like to look at the patient as a whole person,” says the doctor. That broad perspective comes in handy during his rotations in Lee Memorial Hospital’s Emergency Room. While on call he can go from operating on a patient’s injured hand, to a fracture of the leg, all within a few hours. Continued on next page
mylivinglocal.com | DECEMBER 2018
Dr. Ameglio has competed in triathlons, marathons, and some ultra marathons. “I understand that people want to be active in their later years.” says Dr. Ameglio. When working at Gardner Orthopedics, the largest number of complaints he treats on a regular basis are those involving the hips. He says when diagnosing these types of problems, “You should be able to drop a plumb line from the center of the hip, to the center of knee, to almost the center of the ankle. I have to look and see if a patient’s center of gravity is straight and determine where things are out of line in order to see what is needed.” It could be something as simple as a pair of custom-made orthotics to place into shoes. The doctor always looks first at non-surgical treatment options. Even though surgery is viewed as the last option, in some cases it’s the only course of action that will solve a problem or fix an injury. Dr. Ameglio’s interest in science began as a child growing up on his father’s farm in Panama. The surgeon remembers, “We had beef and dairy cows and grew vegetable crops. In order to increase mylivinglocal.com | DECEMBER 2018
production of milk or beef, my father tried things such as artificial insemination, or in the case of crops, hybrid grafting of plants for resistance of pestilence. My father is an economist, not a veterinarian or a botanist, yet he thought these problems through and in doing so stimulated my interest in science.” Dr. Ameglio initially studied exercise physiology stimulated by his love of science and a high school teacher who taught physiology. “This teacher was pivotal in the direction my life would take. I am so grateful to him, as well as other teachers and professors who believed and encouraged me along the way.” When it came time to focus on a career path, medicine was the natural choice. “Medicine was like magic to me. I wanted to know the secrets and was fascinated by the human body and its workings.” Following medical school, Dr. Ameglio briefly considered a career as a family practitioner saying, “I had a romantic notion of carrying a black bag and
About Dr. Ameglio Certified by the American Board of Orthopedic Surgery, Dr. Peter Ameglio was born in Washington DC, but grew up in Panama. After returning to the states, he completed his undergrad at the University of New Hampshire and studied pre-med in Maryland, where he worked at Johns Hopkins. Graduating from medical school at Albert Einstein in New York, he had successful practices in New Hampshire and Maine before relocating to Southwest Florida to be closer to family, including a twin sister in Miami. Dr. Ameglio always looks first at non-surgical treatment options. Even though surgery is viewed as the last option, in some cases it’s the best course of action. going out to save the world. I wish medicine was like this. The reality is that most primary care physicians have an extensive array of medical problems to manage in a very short amount of time. I am both in awe and very grateful for those who choose this very challenging career path. I see myself more as a people carpenter. I help restore my patients’ structure and function. I like rolling up my sleeves, connecting with my patients, and helping them through their life’s journey.” Dr. Ameglio has competed in triathlons, marathons, and some ultra marathons. Because of his personal experience, he can sympathize with how important it is for patients to return to their daily physical activities or sport following an injury. He also wants his patients to be able to enjoy life even with the onset of arthritis. “I understand that people want to be active in their later years.” @moreoptionslessrisk
Not only does the doctor enjoy the social aspect of running, but says it also serves as a type of therapy for him. “This job is a privilege, very rewarding and yet hard. Physicians often put on a face that says everything is okay. I pour love into my patients; those who are hurting or in need. When a patient is suffering, it hurts me too. Running helps keep my heart open and exercise increases my capacity for compassion. I love being a doctor and taking care of others. I believe it is what I was born to do,” says Dr. Ameglio.
Dr. Ronald Gardner
3033 Winkler Avenue • Ft Myers
(239) 277-7070
www.GardnerOrthopedics.com
@gardnerortho239
@gardnerorthopedics
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Sean started on the AC team in June 2018. Although Sean is new, he has stood-out from the pack. Welcome to the team, Sean! Since star ting his career at Best Home Services, Sean feels that the word “Best” is the best way to describe the company. “Everyone is so positive here,” Sean said. “The managers on the ac team are very supportive and encouraging.” Sean said that one of his favorite aspects about working at Best Home Services is the work environment. “It’s
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hard to find a job that has a great work environment,” Sean said. “When I got that job at Best Home Services, I knew that it was the right fit for my career.” Sean also likes t he employee benef it s at Best Home Ser vices. “Where I worked before was a small company with no benef its,” Sean said. “It’s hard to plan for the future when you’re not offered any benefits.” Although Sean likes the employee benefits at Best Home Services, that wasn’t the only reason why he wanted to work for Best Home Services. “I wanted to work for a company that’s fair, and always growing,” Sean said. “I know that my career will grow at Best Home Services.” Working at Best Home Services for almost four months has given Sean helpful ways to grow in his career. “I’ve learned from the weekly meetings to carefully listen to my customers’ concerns,” Sean said. “I realized that each customer has a different concern, so when I listen to what they have to say, it makes fixing the issue easier.” We asked Sean, as an AC technician, what advice does he have for his customers in Southwest Florida. He said, “If you haven’t changed your air conditioning filter in the last 90 days, then you’ll want to change it soon.” Sean explained that when the air filter isn’t changed frequently it can cause a lot of expensive problems for the customer. “I always tell my customers to purchase our air conditioning maintenance program.”
not having a yearly air conditioning maintenance program. “When you don’t take proper care of your air conditioning unit, you can easily spend a lot of money in repairs, which could have been prevented.” Next month, Sean and his fiancé Maddi will be getting married. Together they have a five-year-old Pitbull named Chev y that they both adore. Sean grew-up in North Fort Myers, and when he’s not working he likes to get on a boat and go fishing.
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Painful Pedicures? Time to consider a Vein Evaluation!!
A
t Vein Specialists we see patients every day with a variety of leg symptoms. Patients commonly complain of varicose or spider veins, swelling, and legs that feel tired or achy at the end of the day. Patients often relate to us that they used to love to get pedicures but now they don’t enjoy them because the lower leg massage has become uncomfortable or painful. This pain can often be due to a medical condition known as venous insufficiency and is due to increased fluid accumulation in the calf muscles. Venous insuf f icienc y is a ver y common and often underdiagnosed condition affecting close to 50 million Americans. It is estimated to be present in as much as 40% of the adult population and is more prevalent over the age of 50. Heredity is the common thread, and exacerbating factors include advanced age, female gender, obesity and standing or sedentary occupations. Women are more likely to seek attention than their male counterparts. Venous insufficiency is a medical condition where the valves in the superficial venous system in the legs fail and over time leads to blood pooling in the leg veins, especially when standing or sitting for prolonged
mylivinglocal.com | DECEMBER 2018
periods of time. This leads to abnormally high venous pressure in the veins or “venous hypertension”. It is this high venous pressure which leads to the many signs and symptoms of venous insufficiency, including general achiness and tenderness in the lower legs which can make the massage portion of a pedicure uncomfortable or even painful! The most commonly recognized sign of venous insufficiency is varicose veins. However, there are many other presentations of venous insufficiency including swollen, achy, tired & heavy legs especially at the end of the day. In severe cases, discoloration and thickening around the skin of the lower legs may occur which can lead to venous ulceration. As the pressure in the venous system builds throughout the day symptoms often progress and are often worse in the evening around bedtime. This is when the nighttime triad of symptoms of venous insufficiency including: 1) restless legs, 2) leg cramps and 3) excessive urination become problematic and can adversely affect sleep. Vein Specialists offers comprehensive modern vein evaluation and care. Under the direction of founder and medical director Dr. Joseph Magnant, the Vein Specialists team of Advanced Medical Providers and Registered Vascular
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Sonographers, star t by per form ing a complete history and physical examination and offer detailed ultrasound evaluations critical to creating a treatment plan best matched to each patient’s presentation and diagnostic findings. Modern vein evaluation and intervention is vastly improved over what was available prior to 2000, when invasive procedures such as vein ligation or stripping were the only options available. These procedures required general anesthesia and had unacceptably high complication rates. Since 2000, patients with venous insufficiency have been able to be treated under local anesthesia in an outpatient setting with something called endovenous ablation. This can be accomplished with either laser or radiofrequency catheters which heat and permanently seal the leaky veins decreasing the venous pressure in the legs and significantly improving leg symptoms and appearance. The newest type of endovenous ablation is Venaseal™, which closes the vein using a medical adhesive rather than heat. This technique offers the advantage of requiring fewer injections, and is able to treat the entire length of the vein from groin to the ankle. Venaseal™ has been proven to be as effective as thermal ablation and has
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BUY ONE GET ONE
(239) 466-3663
www.eatcru.com
13499 S Cleveland Ave Ste 241 LUNCH SERVICE TUES – SAT 11:30 - 2:00 DINNER SERVICE MON – THU 5:00 - 10:00 FRI & SAT 5:00 - 11:00
In The Bell Tower Shops Now offering Happy Hour in the dining room!
FREE
Buy one lunch entrée at regular price and get the 2nd one FREE
with purchase of 2 beverages Max discount $10. Must present coupon. 20% gratuity added prior to discount. Not valid with other discounts/specials or on holidays. Exp 12/31/18 LL
dinner special
BUY ONE GET ONE
FREE
Buy one dinner entrée at regular price and get the 2nd one FREE
with purchase of 2 beverages Max discount $20. Must present coupon. 20% gratuity added prior to discount. Not valid with other discounts/specials or on holidays. Exp 12/31/18 LL
CLOTHING • JEWELRY • ACCESSORIES • GIFTS
5
9320 College Parkway $ OFF McGregor Village ANY PURCHASE
Take the College Pkwy exit to McGregor Blvd.
(239) 590-0922
H OU RS Mon-Sat 10a-5p
OF $30 OR MORE Must present coupon for discount. Excludes sale items, previous purchases, or gift certificates. One coupon per customer per visit. Expires 12/31/18 LL
mylivinglocal.com | DECEMBER 2018
Local Entrepreneur Provides the
Centerpiece
for the Season
All those early years of hard work paid off for Mueller, as he had enough money in the bank to get the business going. However, he didn’t quite have enough to purchase all of the trees he needed. Hutchinson offered the budding entrepreneur a line of credit, and in 1992 Uncle Al’s was in business. At the age of 19 Mueller ended the season with a $10,000 profit, and while that might not seem like much to many, he laughs, “it felt like I made a million dollars.”
It’s part of the landscape of the holiday season—those big tents on the side of the road, packed full of Christmas Trees, and then fireworks for the New Year. Have you ever wondered who is behind them? Meet Al Mueller founder of Uncle Al’s Seasonal Retail. With the roots planted in Fort Myers, Mueller has expanded his roadside businesses to more than 50 locations. It all began at the tender age of 15 when he sold Christmas trees in Southwest Florida for a farmer in Michigan by the name of Walter Hutchinson. Af ter graduating from Cape Coral High school in 1991, Mueller went to college but quickly discovered academia was not for him. He reconnected with Hutchinson who suggested the young man not only sell Christmas trees but do it on his own terms, open his own business. mylivinglocal.com | DECEMBER 2018
With the roadside business model in mind and a desire to make money year-round, the following year he expanded his offerings to fireworks. Laughing, he says, “I liked playing with fire, so it was a natural progression.” But with a new product came a new challenge. Mueller remembers, “I had no clue how to price the fireworks so I went to every other stand in the area
Al working in the warehouse at his newest acquisition, Creative Events/Taylor Rental
to try and find out. I finally was able to persuade an employee at one of the other stands to hand over the price list with the exchange of a six-pack of beer.” He was then off and running with Firepower Fireworks National. Ten years ago the local fireworks business expanded to Indiana and Michigan, now boasting more than 20 locations. In fact, the fireworks arm of Mueller’s company has grown to the point where he travels to China to personally work with suppliers a n d ma n u f a c t u re r s . D eve l o p i n g those relationships has helped him to secure his own fireworks brand, among other things. A lot of logistics are involved with setting up roadside businesses; things such as land leases, labor, and renting those big tents. Putting his entrepreneurial spirit to work once again, last year Mueller acquired Creative Events/Taylor Rental. The local company provides rentals (including tents) along with design, consulting, and production for almost any kind of special event. While Uncle Al’s Christmas tree lots have previously occupied real estate at several Southwest Florida locations, there is an unfortunate national shortage of trees this year. It’s forcing Mueller to open only one lot, in front of Sam’s Club on US41 in Fort Myers. It’s an unpredictable business often dictated by Mother Nature, and it’s not limited to trees. One 4th of July the state
Al with his 4 children; Ashton, Camden, Cayden & Alyvia
of Florida was ravaged by a brush fire outbreak. The sale of fireworks was banned, and Mueller had invested hundreds of thousands of dollars in supplies. It nearly forced him to fold up his tents for good. Although he’s in a high-risk business, Mueller says, “There are also great rewards including instilling a healthy work ethic into my kids, Ashton, Camden, Cayden, and Alyvia.” Some of the keys to Mueller’s success include, “Pay when you say you’re going to pay, learn to trust and delegate, and don’t ask someone to do something you wouldn’t.” Not only will you find him working in his seasonal tents, but also his children. He says, “I want to show them that things aren’t just given to you in life. It takes hard work, blood, sweat, and even a few tears to make your dreams become reality.” But in the end, he says it’s worth it.
‘
‘
Uncle
Als
Christmas Trees
Uncle
Als
Fireworks
$10 OFF
BUY ONE GET ONE FREE*
Not valid with any other offer/discount. Exp. 12/10/18
*From select group of items. Not valid with any other offer/discount. Exp. 12/29/18
any Christmas tree purchase of $100 or more
Purchase one item & receive the second item free.
mylivinglocal.com | DECEMBER 2018
mylivinglocal.com | DECEMBER 2018
LIVE
ENTERTAINMENT
HAPPY HOUR
BUY ONE GET ONE
FREE
Buy one dinner item M,T,W,TH,SU (from our dinner menu ONLY) at reg price and receive the second, of equal or lesser value FREE! Valid 4p-close.
Max Discount $15. Must purchase 2 beverages. Must present coupon. Not valid with any other offers/ discounts NOT VALID FRIDAY, SATURDAY or HOLIDAYS
HOME OF THE FAMOUS
BLOWFISH BAR
EXP 12/31/18 LL - FME
1000 ESTERO BLVD. FT MYERS BEACH • 765-7800 Located next to the public pier in the times square area
piersidegrill.com
OPEN 11 TO 11 • SEVEN DAYS!
MON-THUR: 12pm–10pm FRI-SAT: 12pm–Midnight SUN: 12pm–8pm AUTHENTIC HAWAIIAN SHAVE ICE & ICE CREAM @TheShavedIceBar #StickYourTongueOut
239-541-8283 ShavedIceBar.com University Village
FREE ITEM
Purchase one menu item at regular price and receive the second, equal or lesser value FREE. Must present coupon. Not valid with any other discount. EXP 12/31/18 LL FME
NE corner of Estero & Ben Hill Griffin Parkways
mylivinglocal.com | DECEMBER 2018
RECIPE OF THE MONTH
Wyld’s Cafe
Herb Encrusted Lamb Rack Serves 2
Ingredients
Directions
One 8 bone rack of lamb,
Preheat oven to 425°.
cut in half to make two 4 bone racks
Trim excess fat from meat, while leaving a layer of fat on the bones. Coat the lamb in Dijon mustard and season liberally with onion powder, garlic powder, salt and pepper. Sprinkle the meat with freshly chopped oregano and thyme.
Dijon mustard Onion powder Garlic powder Chopped fresh oregano Chopped fresh thyme Salt and pepper Extra virgin olive oil
mylivinglocal.com | DECEMBER 2018
In an oven-safe sauté pan, add the extra virgin olive oil and the lamb, fat side down. Turn the burner to high and sear until lightly browned. Flip the rack over and place the pan in the oven for 10 minutes. Flip the rack over once more and continue cooking until the internal temperature reaches 120° in the thickest part of the meat, approximately 10 minutes, for medium rare. Remove the lamb from the oven and allow it to rest for 10 minutes. Slice and serve.
C
hef/owner Robert Charest signed a deal to take over the space on Pearl Harbor Day (December 7th ) 2004. In a whirlwind six weeks, he opened the doors to his first customers. Growing up in Massachusetts Charest started working in the restaurant industry when he was eleven years old, began cooking at 16, and went to culinary school at Johnson and Wales. Attending classes during the day, at night he worked in a restaurant on Block Island, Rhode Island. The owners also had a restaurant in Naples so in 1990, in his 20’s, Charest became a working snowbird. After a few seasons of summers on Block Island and winters in Naples he decided it was time to be his own boss, and put all of his skills to work. He loves beer and his bar menu proves it. As far as the kitchen, Charest is a fan of Wyld’s signature, Tenderloin Saga. He laughs, “I try to eat at least one a week.”
4271 BONITA BEACH RD SW
|
BONITA SPRINGS
mylivinglocal.com | DECEMBER 2018
This holiday season might catch you wearing a black tie or a little black dress, and while it’s appropriate to match, you most likely don’t want those annoying little black lines around your teeth. The cause of those lines is one of the most commonly asked questions by patients of Dr. Katrine Farag, owner of Advanced Dentistry of Fort Myers. Those lines can be a result of a number of things, including the metal parts contained in some patients’ existing crowns. These types of crowns are called porcelain fused to metal, or PFM crowns; you can actually see the shadow of the dark metal through the white porcelain that covers them. Think of crowns like caps or covers that are placed over a damaged tooth to help reinforce it. They are also used to improve the general appearance of teeth. Crowns are made from a variety of materials and this is where the PFM problems can develop. The good news is that if you have PFM crowns in your mouth and are not happy with their appearance, you are not stuck with them; Dr. Farag can fix them. She says, “We can get rid of those unattractive lines by replacing the existing PFM crowns with ceramic crowns. They are strong but do not contain metal. They offer a much younger, healthier, and more natural look.”
Beautiful Smiles Begin Here! mylivinglocal.com | DECEMBER 2018
to smile
I t may surprise some pat ient s to know that tooth decay can also c au se t hose unap p ealin g lines . “Some patients are under the false impression that just because a tooth is covered with a crown or veneer it is impervious to decay,” explains Dr. Farag. That is not the case.
While it’s true that crowns can last a lifetime, they can also become loose or even fall out; this is just one of the many reasons why good oral hygiene is so important, not only during the holidays, but year round. Speaking of hygiene, dental plaque from bacteria can be another cause for black lines, according to the doctor. For tunately, this issue is a preventable one. Simply brush your teeth on a regular basis and floss daily, especially after those big holiday meals and parties. “Another very common cause of black lines bet ween teeth is the recession of gums. This condition can be caused by over brushing, periodontal disease, tooth grinding, and shif t ing of teet h . Tha t dark area you are seeing is the actual root structure,” says Dr. Farag. In these ins tances the appearance of lines is of ten accompanied by tooth sensitivity.
The bottom line according to Dr. Farag, “It is important to make regular visits to ensure that your crowns are maintaining integrity and functioning properly.” And it’s never too late to start. Take time this holiday season to take care of your teeth. If you are in need of dental care, or are unhappy with the appearance of existing crowns, call Dr. Farag.
About Dr. Farag: Dr. Farag was born in London but grew up in Charlotte, North Carolina— she still says ya’ll. After graduating high school, she moved to Nashville, TN to complete her undergraduate studies in Neuroscience at Vanderbilt Universit y. In 2005 , she met her future husband who opened a dental practice in Port Charlotte and received her DMD in 2008 from Nova Southeastern College of Dentistry in Davie, Fl. Dr. Farag purchased Advanced Dentistry of Fort Myers in 2016. She takes a personal interest in each and every patient who comes into the office, and patient comfort is her foremost concern.
AdvancedDentistryofFtMyers. c om
16601 San Carlos Blvd • Ft Myers Second location in Port Charlotte
• 239-466-3131 • 941-764-9555mylivinglocal.com
|
DECEMBER 2018
Helping Charities is Like on the Cake for the Everblades
he Florida Everblades have been a Tthread in the fabric of Southwest Florida
for more than twenty years. That thread is woven into the community in many ways, charity being a big one. During the 2017-18 season, the Everblades donated $252, 850 to local charities, and have given nearly $1 million in the past five seasons. One of the biggest and most popular annual fundraisers takes place this month, the Teddy Bear Toss. Fans attend the game with their teddies in tow and when the Everblades score their first goal the arena goes crazy. It rains stuffed animals as attendees toss them onto the ice. Various charities collect the cuddly creatures for holiday gifts, however, a few are always held back. Chris Palin, Executive VP of Business Development explains, “The Monday after the event, the Everblades staff and players go to the children’s hospital to deliver the teddy bears. Not only is it a good event at the game and good for staff and team building, but also it’s really humbling. You mylivinglocal.com | DECEMBER 2018
think you’re having a bad day and then go to a hospital and don’t realize how good you have it.” He adds, “To see the smiles on kids’ faces is worth it. This is our biggest event and it’s fabulous all the way around.” When not on the road, practicing, or playing home games, you’ll often see Everblades players donating their time at charitable events. While it’s not a requirement, it speaks to the character of the men the hockey team recruits. “At our level as a team, players have more of an understanding of what it takes to be a well rounded athlete, to give back to the community,” says Palin. A well-rounded player is exactly one of the things the Everblades coaching staff looks for when filling their roster each season. The Florida Everblades are part of ECHL or East Coast Hockey League. It would be equivalent to the AA designation in baseball. They are an affiliate of the Charlotte Checkers in the AHL, and the Carolina Hurricanes in the NHL.
Chris Palin
E xe c u t ive VP, B u s in e s s Developm ent, Flo rida Ever blades
Players take to the ice for 72 games in a season that runs from October through April. In their 21 years in Southwest Florida the Everblades only missed the playoffs one time and in 2012 the team won the Kelly Cup, the ECHL Championship. Although the Teddy Bear Toss is the signature event this time of year, if you take a look at the Everblades calendar you will see it is full of activities that give back. The team partners with sponsors and charities for monthly jersey auctions and programs such as Blades Backers, which provides 8,000 tickets to underprivileged children and their families. February is one of the next big events; Pink in the Rink. Radiology Regional parks it’s Mobile Mammo bus outside of the arena for fans to tour and the money raised helps pay for breast screenings for women and men in Southwest Florida who might not be able to afford them. In association with Pink in the Rink, Palin is hoping to bring back Hockey in Heels. It’s like a Hockey 101 girls’ night. Those who attend learn about the game and its rules, meet some of the players, and even tour their locker room. All of the charities the Everblades supports are local; the money raised stays in Southwest Florida.
Even when there are not special events, there are special weekly promotions. Palin says, “We pride ourselves in providing an environment that is fun and provides entertainment for the entire family.” For example, there is a free tailgate party every Saturday before home games where fans enjoy food, live entertainment, and a bounce house for the kids. Youth hockey exhibitions highlight the fun on Fridays when kids also eat free in the Breakaway Sports Pub. In addition, it’s bottomless popcorn night. Wednesday’s specials also incorporate college students and young professionals who might be on a budget but want a fun night out. It’s $2 night where hotdogs, beer, and wine are only $2 all night long. Palin says about at tending an Everblades game, “It’s an extremely great value for the money. We strive to put on great game presentations, so whether the team wins or loses, we’ve provided a great night of entertainment.” Add the element of giving back and it is indeed a recipe for success. For more information about the Florida Everblades, upcoming games and ticket sales, please go to floridaeverblades.com.
FloridaEverblades.com mylivinglocal. | com
DECEMBER 2018
y m m er ro o liv e f r.c De labl ne ai u n av dR
o Fo
NEW MANAGEMENT:
Joe Gates, previous owner of Il Pomodoro
ORDER SPECIAL $
10 OFF
Spend $50+ and receive $10 off. Cannot be combined with any other offers/discounts. Offer Expires 12/30/18
Excludes Christmas Eve & New Years Eve
DINE IN SPECIAL
HALF OFF BUY ONE GET ONE
Florida Weekly :
´ ENTREES
Food: ★★★★1/2 Service: ★★★★ Atmosphere: ★★★
HOURS: Mon to Sat 11am - 9pm Sun Closed 3268 Forum Blvd Fort Myers 239-275-7777 ilfornofortmyers.com
Offer Expires 12/30/18
Excludes Christmas Eve & New Years Eve
f @ilfornofortmyers
YOUR HOME IMPROVEMENT
Headquarters
16025 San Carlos Blvd Ft Myers • 239.466.7777
Ga
vin
’s
Gavin’s
Dine in only. Cannot combine with any other offers/discounts. Must present coupon. Must purchase 2 beverages. Max discount for lunch: $5. Max discount for dinner: $10.
CREATE YOUR OWN SALE ITEM
5
$
OFF
Reg Priced Merchandise $25 or More
Must present coupon, Limit one coupon per visit. Not valid with any other offers or discounts. Expires 12/31/18 LL
Ga
vin
’s
16025 San Carlos Blvd Ft Myers • 239.466.7777
CREATE YOUR OWN SALE ITEM
Friend ly Neighborhood Service F A M I LY O W N E D A N D O P E R AT E D
Since 1987
290 Nicholas Pkwy NW | Cape Coral | 239.945.6223 16025 San Carlos Blvd | Ft Myers | 239.466.7777 mylivinglocal.com | DECEMBER 2018
10 OFF
$
Reg Priced Merchandise $50 or More
Must present coupon, Limit one coupon per visit. Not valid with any other offers or discounts. Expires 12/31/18 LL
www.SHOPATACE.com
Did the elves leave behind unwanted gifts? Southwest
1 to 2 hour Drying Time • Safe & Non-Toxic • Carpet Stays Clean Longer
UPHOLSTERY 15%OFF CARPET CLEANING 15%OFF CLEANING Limit one coupon per customer. Coupon cannot be combined with any offer or discount. Rate of $.28/sf. Minimum 450 sf.
Expires 12/31/18
Limit one coupon per customer. Coupon cannot be combined with any offer or discount. Rate of $12/lin. ft. Minimum Applies
Expires 12/31/18
Serving Lee and Collier County • Locally Owned & Operated • southwestcd.com
FORT MYERS (239) 226-4559 • BONITA (239) 949-4559 NAPLES (239) 774-2455
Create Function & Storage with Style! Call for a Professional Design Consultation!
Kristi tuffo
$
250OFF
Designer ktuffo@allaboutclosets.com
239.303.5829
ANY CUSTOM CLOSET $2,000 OR MORE
Can not be combined with any other discount. Must be presented at time of sale. Expires 12/31/2018.
custom closet | wall units | laundry areas | garages | home offices and more!
WWW.ALLABOUTCLOSETS.COM mylivinglocal.com | DECEMBER 2018
SHOW OFF YOUR LEGS this Christmas! Complimentary Seminar
Meet Dr. Magnant & his team of providers for an intimate Q&A session. Limited seating. Call 239-694-8346 & mention code VS11
Fort Myers
Monday, Dec. 10th at 4:30PM
Naples/Bonita Springs Wednesday, Dec. 12th at 4:30PM
• Offering the Latest Technology Available
VenaSeal™ & Intravascular Ultrasound (IVUS)
• Center of Excellence for Physician Training SW FLORIDA’S ONLY
ACCREDITED VEIN CENTER
100% Dedicated to Veins!
Joseph G. Magnant MD, FACS, RPVI
WeKnowVeins.com 239.694.VEIN (8346) Fort Myers
1500 Royal Palm Square Blvd., Suite 105
mylivinglocal.com | DECEMBER 2018
Naples/Bonita Springs 3359 Woods Edge Cir., Suite 102
1/2 OFF
ENTREE
Purchase any entree at regular price & receive the second equal or lesser value 1/2 off. Must present coupon. Not valid during holidays or with any other coupons, offers or promotions. Exp. 12/31/18 Code: LL
Dine in an Authentic Waterfront Shrimping Shanty! 2200 Main Street, Fort Myers Beach 239.463.3043
Mon-Fri 3-10p | Sat & Sun 11a-10p @FLshrimpdock
g st d Be inin Voteront D04 erf e 20 Wat sinc
The Original Shrimp Dock Bar & Grill is a waterfront seafood restaurant featuring delicious signature shrimp dishes, served in an authentic shrimping shanty with stunning views of the Back Bay. Enjoy waterfront dining at its best with “Boat to Plate” seafood favorites, tropical cocktails, local craft beers and live entertainment in the heart of Fort Myers’ historic shrimping fleet.
MLuIVsEic !
1/2 OFF
ENTREE
2500 Main St. Ft Myers Beach
Purchase any entree at regular price & receive the second equal or lesser value 1/2 off. Must present coupon. Not valid during holidays or with any other coupons, offers, or promotions. Exp 12/31/18 LL
239.463.3257 MyParrotKey.com mylivinglocal.com | DECEMBER 2018
500 OR $1000
$
P I N E B R O O K PA R K P L A Z A
off $25+
12995 Cleveland Ave
off $50+
(located next to Bell Tower Shops)
With the purchase of 2 drinks, 18% Gratuity added prior to discount. Must present coupon. Not valid on Holidays or with any other offers/discounts. Exp 12/31/18 LL
www.saigonparisbistro.com
Mon-Fri 11a-9p • Sat & Sun 8:30a-9p
239.936.2233
FREE
NLOCAETIW ON 16475 San Carlos Blvd Fort Myers
SMALL CONE OR CUP
239.466.7707 Open Everyday 11am - 10p
Jerry’s Plaza • 1700 Periwinkle Way 239.312.4356 • Open Everyday 10a - 9:30p
239-481-ZOOM (9666) 17455 Summerlin Rd Fort Myers
FREE SMALL cone or cup with any purchase of equal or greater value. Not valid with any other offers/discounts. Must present coupon. Exp 12/31/18 LL
5 OFF A WRISTBAND $
Unlimited rides, mini-golf and go-karts. Must present coupon. One per person. Not valid with any other offers. EXCLUDES PARENT & ANNUAL PASSES Expires 12/31/18 LL
www.zoomersfun.com
mylivinglocal.com | DECEMBER 2018
& Friday Night Adult Cruises Family Cruises D VOTE
T
BES
LY FAMIINMENT
RTA ENTE
t
A Located
“We loved it! The crew was just awesome!”
2 5 0 0 MAIN STRE E T F T MYE RS B E ACH
239.765.7272
“My kids keep asking when we can go again!” ilable
Also Ava
Sam’s at Salty
5 OFF
$
2 TICKETS
Must present coupon. Not valid on Holidays or Special Events or with other offers or discounts. Exp 12/31/18 LL. Book Online Using This Code: LL5OFF2PO8
Experience Paradise E c o To urs Dolp h in Cruises Sun set Cruises
239.765.7272 2500 MAIN STREET • FORT MYERS BEACH • LAST LEFT BEFORE THE BRIDGE
mylivinglocal.com | DECEMBER 2018
Merry Christmas From Sebastian & Winston
Free
UNLIMITED QUANTITY
4.99
$
IN-HOME
CONSULTATION
PER SQ FT
We Now Offer Financing! 2 ROOMS
3 ROOMS
WHOLE HOUSE
(UP TO 300 SQ FT)
(UP TO 400 SQ FT)
(UP TO 400 SQ FT)
$
1790
2
0
1
$
1
THE NEWS-PRESS
21st
ANNUAL
O F SOU TH WEST F L O R I D A FIRST PLACE
2390
$
4792
Voted SWFL’s Best Laminate and Hardwood Flooring
5 YRS IN A ROW!
WE PROUDLY SPECIALIZE IN PRODUCTS MADE IN AMERICA!
239-872-3200 & 239-938-9999 www.wrightflooringinc.com
mylivinglocal.com | DECEMBER 2018
2775 N Airport Rd • #102 • Ft Myers
Protecting Your Landscaping, One Drop At A Time
FREE
Sprinkler System Inspection With $49.00 Tune-Up
5% OFF
On Any Landscape Lighting Services
Must present ad for offer. Not valid with any other offer. Expires 12/31/2018
Present ad for cupon offer Restrictions May Apply Expires 12/31/18
Sprinkler Systems • Landscape Lighting • Water Treatment Residential & Commercial • Scheduled Maintenance • Monthly, Quarterly, Annually
239.275.8569 | 239.498.1900 LEE LEE COUNTY COUNTY
COLLIER COLLIER COUNTY COUNTY
www.DavidsonIrrigation.com
LLE-KC
KIDS CUT $
2
LLE-AC
™
™
ADULT CUT
OFF
$
11 & under
4
OFF
INCLUDES SHAMPOO & TOUSLE DRY
Dashing Dashi day to night
Specialty cuts, long hair, curling or flat iron extra. Not valid with other offers or discounts. Only at participating salons.
EXP. 12/31/18
QUICK & EASY PERM ®
Long or thick hair, design wraps, curling iron or set extra. Not valid with other offers or discounts. Only at participating salons.
Daniels Crossing • (239) 561-0221 6900-5 Daniels Pkwy • Publix center next to Subway Mon-Fri 9-8 • Sat 9-5 • Sun 11-4
OFF
5
OFF
$
LLE-QEP EXP. 12/31/18
™
COLOR/HIGHLIGHTS
BY A PROFESSIONAL CHI COLORIST ®
Long or thick hair, curling or flat iron extra. Not valid with other offers or discounts. Only at participating salons.
FANTASTIC SAMS DANIELS PARKWAY
5
FREE SHAMPOO & CUT
LLE-CH EXP. 12/31/18
$
™
FIRST TIME GUESTS Specialty cuts, long hair, curling or flat iron extra. Not valid with other offers or discounts. Only at participating salons.
25 OFF %
ANY SINGLE
LLE-FT EXP. 12/31/18 SERVICE
™
mylivinglocal.com | DECEMBER 2018
SAT•12/8
WED: $2 Beer Wine & Dogs
Teddy Bear Toss
FRI: Kids Eat Free
Specialty Jersey Auction
SAT: Tailgate Party FREE from 5-7
SATURDAY, 12/1
AT
WEDNESDAY, 12/5 FRIDAY, 12/7
AT
7:00
AT
7:30
7:30
SATURDAY, 12/8
AT
SATURDAY, 12/22
7:00
AT
mylivinglocal.com | DECEMBER 2018
7:00
BUY ANY 18/19 TICKET PACK & GET A $20 FORD’S
GIFT CARD & ‘BLADES T-SHIRT
Valid on any NEW voucher, select or full package purchase.
Find livinglocal Anytime & Everywhere mylivinglocal.com
• Online & Mobile Offers • Current & Past Feature Articles
Like us on EQDM for give-a-ways
NOW – DEC 25 Based on the holiday film of the same name, this hilarious musical comedy follows Buddy the Elf in his quest to find his true identity and help New York remember the true meaning of Christmas. IN THE OFF BROADWAY PALM
NOW – DEC 25
CHILDREN’S THEATRE
$19
LUNCH & SHOW!
Selected Matinees
NOW – DEC 24
Thank you for livinglocal with us!
1380 Colonial Boulevard, Ft. Myers
239.278.4422 • BroadwayPalm.com mylivinglocal.com | DECEMBER 2018
HaroldsW’
dc
in / Win
/
WE LIKE TO CALL IT OUR
Free Entrée
Experience one of SW Florida’s most celebrated Chefs, Harold Balink
REGAL PLAZA
15250 S Tamiami Trl • Ft Myers
239.849.0622 RESERVATIONS RECOMMENDED
Open Wed-Sat 5pm to Close
w/purchase of one entrée of equal or greater value & two beverages MUST PRESENT COUPON UPON ARRIVAL & ORDER BY 5:30PM. DIGITAL COUPONS OR COPIES NOT ACCEPTED. 20% GRATUITY ADDED BEFORE DISCOUNT. NOT VALID W/ANY OTHER OFFERS/ DISCOUNTS OR ON HOLIDAYS. EXP 12/31/18 LL
America’s Grout & Tile Cleaning, Repair and Restoration Expert.
FREE QUOTE & IN-HOME DEMO
www.GroutsmithSWFL.com
Don’t Replace It, Restore It (239) 322-2320
OPEN FOR BREAKFAST 12377 S. Cleveland Ave #18 (SE Corner of US 41 & Crystal)
(239) 274-8877 mylivinglocal.com | DECEMBER 2018
Family Owned and Operated for Over 25 Years
50
$
OFF service (any over 500 ) $
30
$
OFF service (any over 250 ) $
Can not be combined with other offers/discounts. Must present coupon. Expires 12/31/18 LL.
1 OFF
$ Catering Available
any regular or giant sub
VALID ONLY AT US 41/CRYSTAL DR. LOCATION SE Corner of US 41 & Crystal
Can not be combined with any other discount/offer. 1 coupon per person per visit. Must present coupon. Exp 12/31/18 LL
Tropical Pools Construction LLC
#CPC1456576
NEW POOL CONSTRUCTION & MASTER RENOVATORS
• Over 40 years of pool building experience • Total Customer Care Satisfaction
FREE 42" TV
VINTAGE BULLET FRIDGE
2.3 CU. FT.
or
with every pool!
STANDARD 12’X24’ POOL PACKAGE
$32,790.00 (Pool, Deck & Screen) • $26,590.00 (Without Screen) FINANCING AVAILABLE
239-458-7770
www.tropicalpoolsconstruction.com mylivinglocal.com | DECEMBER 2018
ADOPT A FAMILY FOR THE HOLIDAYS & FEED THEM ALL YEAR LONG
F
ood and gratitude are two of the things that keep many people and organizations running this time of year, including the Community Cooperative. Founded in 1984, last year the organization provided over a million pounds of food to those in need. CEO Tracey Galloway says, “Food is the primary driver of our organization with the soup kitchen, our food pantries (both mobile and stationary), and our Meals on Wheels program.” And during the holidays things increase to a pace that is almost frenzied at times. Not only does the soup kitchen maintain its daily food programs, but also prepares special holiday meals. More meals are delivered to seniors during the holidays and with kids out of school, more families need help filling in the blanks for breakfast and lunch. The holiday season proves especially difficult for struggling families having to explain to their children why they may not have a holiday meal or gifts to open this year. Community Cooperative’s mission expands beyond food.
Stefanie Edwards with Lillian, a 100 year-old Meals on Wheels recipient
By Gina Birch
The Adopt a Family program began about five years ago to support families who are working with the organization’s social service programs and who are in long term case coaching. Galloway explains, “Our objective with the coaching is to strengthen families. We help parents set and achieve goals for things such as budgets or finishing a degree, and goals for the kids include things such as homework and grades.” “We try to create long term, positive change, the kind of changes that affect lives. So when the holidays come around, if a family is doing better but still doesn’t have enough money for a Christmas tree, presents, or a meal, we don’t want them to feel pressure,” says Galloway. This is where the community comes in to Adopt a Family. Lists of needs and wants are gathered and then a family is paired with an individual and/or an organization wanting to participate. G a l l ow ay s ay s , “ Fa m i l i e s a n d co-workers often have wrapping parties for the gifts they are donating. It’s a feel good project for everyone who is involved.” The same holds true for the Adopt a Senior program. Most of these men and women are Meals on Wheels clients who are living by themselves. Galloway explains, “Think of your grandmother or grandfather; What would they need?” It’s often simple things like fuzzy, non-skid socks, lotion, crossword puzzles, magnifying devices, and such. The sentiment behind the program is basic, “You’re loved and you’re not alone,” says Galloway. Even if you don’t adopt a family, Community Cooperative still takes new, unwrapped toys, books, and stuffed
239.332.7687 • www.CommunityCooperative.com
mylivinglocal.com | DECEMBER 2018
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Leesar donating Adopt a Senior gifts
animals to fill last minute needs. For example, she says, “One Christmas Eve our door bell rang. It was a foster parent who received a phone call the night before. Two young children were removed from their home, were coming to her, and she had nothing for them.” With the help of Community Cooperative, those shell-shocked children, who woke up without their parents were not left without gifts on Christmas morning. If you are hosting or planning a large holiday party of any kind, where there is often a lot of food left over, call Community Cooperative for a “food rescue.” Galloway explains, “Trays of unserved food such as cookies and sandwiches can be donated for use in the soup kitchen. Our clients love it because it’s something new and different from what we serve them every day.” You can also add a purpose to your holiday party by asking for donations of food, toys, and hygiene items. Community Cooperative also assists the area’s homeless population. If you are not hosting a party, or are unable to adopt a family, you can still help the soup kitchen’s mission with monetary donations or by volunteering.
CEO Tracey Galloway & one of our Adopt a Family recipients.
Although December is the peak time for giving time and money, the mission of Community Cooperative and the need is one that is year round. Volunteers actually started toasting bread in August to make all of the dressing for Thanksgiving and Christmas meals. It’s quite an undertaking. Wren and Bev Whitaker are longtime volunteers for Community Cooperative and say, “This is very fulfilling work and something we enjoy and can do together. It’s so great to see all the people that are so dedicated to the service of others. Being around people who love to help people is a grand reward.” For more information on the services and mission of Community Cooperative, go to www.CommunityCooperative.com. If you would like to adopt a family, adopt a senior, volunteer, or make a holiday donation, email: Christmas@CommunityCooperative.com or call 239.332.7687 ext. 110
Christmas@CommunityCooperative.com
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