Vol. 11, Issue 02, February 2020
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Your community. Your magazine. ™
The Premier “Shop Local” Community Magazine Directly Mailed To 20,000 Homes In Odessa, Lutz & Land O’ Lakes Areas This Independent Community News, Business & Dining Guide Is Directly Mailed Once Each Month To:
Ashley Lakes, Ballantrae, Belle Meade, Calusa Trace, Canterbury, Cheval, Citrus Greens, Concord Station, Devonwood, Dolce Vita on Lake Keystone, Echo Lake, Farmington Village, Fern Glenn, Grey Hawk at Lake Polo, Heritage Harbor, Ivy Lake Estates, Keystone Groves, Keystone Manors, Keystone Reserve, Keystone Shores, Lake Charles, Lake Church, Lake Parker Estates, Lakeside Grove Estates, Northlake Village, Northbridge at Lake Pretty, Northton Groves, Oakstead, Orange Blossom Creek, Reflections, Steeple Chase, Starkey Ranch, Stillwater, Stonegate, Suncoast Crossings, Suncoast Meadows, Swan Cove, Van Dyke Estates, Van Dyke Farms, Villa Rosa, Wyndham Lakes
Patient Focused Care by Physician Who Has Earned Humana’s Highest Ranking Dr. Prakash Machhar, MD and Healthcare Associates of Pasco County ranked #1 Physicians’ Practice in Quality Careby Humana in the state of Florida!
By Kelly Stuart Williams, MA When was the last time you visited your doctor’s office and actually met with your MD: not their triage nurse or physician’s assistant? If Humana is your insurance provider and you live in Pasco County, you have likely seen Healthcare Associates of Pasco County in New Port Richey where Dr. Prakash Machhar, MD has practiced
medicine for over 20 years. His is the only practice in Pasco County to receive MULTIPLE 5 STAR RATINGS BY HUMANA IN THE LAST 4 YEARS! From over 75 reviews on www. Healthgrades.com, a patient recently wrote, “Dr. Machhar always takes the time to explain procedures and answer any questions you might have in full. The office staff is very profesSee “Dr. Machhar” on page 22
Van Dyke Barbers - Hair cuts, shaves, and fades
INSIDE THIS ISSUE:
By Morgan Fliss
From the Editor..............................5
Established in 2017, family-friendly Van Dyke Road Barbershop prides itself on creating an inviting and safe environment for clientele of all ages and hair types. From men to kids and senior citizens, Van Dyke Barbershop has your hair and grooming needs covered! It is their top priority to ensure that all customers that walk through their doors leave with a smile and a perfect new look. Owned and operated by Rick Aparicio, this fabulous community staple creates an atmosphere where grooming meets the
Bliss Dental Lounge....................6-7
See “Barbers” on page 28
Tech Talk with Bob...................10-11 Interplay Therapy Center........14-15 Anne Frank’s Stepsister...................18 National Rejuvenation Centers...24-25
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Did you know that the month of February has a leap day?
February 29, is added to the calendar during leap years. This extra day makes 2020 366 days long—not 365 days, like a common year. The next leap day is February 29, 2020. The last leap day was on February 29, 2016!
Hail, Caesar!
Roman general Julius Caesar implemented the first leap day in his Julian Calendar, which he introduced in 45 BCE. A leap day was added every four years. At the time, the leap day was February 24, and February was the last month of the year.
Tradition and Folklore
Leap day as a concept has existed for more than 2000 years and it is still associated with age-old customs, folklore, and superstition. One of the most wellknown traditions is that women propose to their boyfriends, instead of the other way around. Does the movie “Leap Year” with Amy Adams ring any bells? When yet another anniversary passes without a marriage proposal, Anna (Amy Adams) decides to take action. Aware of the superstitions and Celtic traditions that allow women to pop the question on Feb. 29, she plans to follow her lover to Dublin and propose. I personally don’t think I have the guts to propose to a man, but kudos to those brave and courageous ladies that pop the question themselves.
All About The Heart
The month of February has long been synonymous with tender heart shapes and the sensual color of red—thanks to the annual celebration of Valentine’s Day. But February isn’t just for friends and lovers. It also reminds us to take care of our heart and consider our risk factors, because February is Heart Disease Awareness Month. Heart disease is the leading cause of death for men and women in the United States. Every year, 1 in 4 deaths is caused by heart disease. My father Julio Cesar, named after the Roman General, was only
62 years old when he passed away unexpectedly from a fatal heart attack on my living room floor 2 years ago, but it hurts like it happened just yesterday.
Don’t Wait
Your risk of heart disease increases as you get older but believe it or not, heart disease can happen at any age. The good news? Some risk factors for heart disease and stroke are preventable when people make healthy lifestyle choices. Some risk factors for cardiovascular disease include; obesity, physical inactivity, high blood pressure, cigarette smoking, high cholesterol or diabetes. So, if you want to stay on top of your health and try to avoid the risk of heart disease, there are a few things you can do. Starting with not smoking, but if you’re already a smoker try your best to quit. If you are being treated for high blood pressure and cholesterol do your best to take your medications as prescribed by your doctor. Next, make heart-healthy decisions. Eat whole foods that are low in trans-fat, saturated fat, sodium, and added sugar. Limit sugar-sweetened beverages and red meat. Condiment your proteins with spices instead of salt. When you’re preparing a meal, make sure to fill half your plate with fruits and vegetables instead of carbohydrates. Finally, get moving! Living a sedentary lifestyle will put you at a much greater risk for heart disease. Try to get in at least 20 minutes of physical activity 4-5 days a week, then build from there. Manage your stress levels. Stress is linked to heart disease in many ways. It can raise your blood pressure. Extreme stress can be a “trigger” for a heart attack. Make sure you get enough sleep. If you don’t get enough sleep, you may raise your risk of high blood pressure, obesity, and diabetes. Those three things can raise your risks for heart disease.
Until next time,
Carla Selby
Bliss Dental Lounge, a Spa-Like Dentistry Practice, Opens in Lutz By Deborah Bostock-Kelley When you walk into Bliss Dental Lounge, don’t be surprised if you feel the need to step back outside and confirm you have the correct address. The office looks nothing like the typical white, sterile dental office with the cringeworthy drilling sounds and that distinct pervasive clove odor. Bliss Dental Lounge seems more like getting your dental services at a resort spa, and that is precisely what Dr. Sheetal Suryawanshi, DMD intended. After working in other dental practices for 20 years, Dr. Suryawanshi knew precisely what she wanted when opening her private practice. For two years, she researched and perfected her dental lounge to be the antithesis of what one would anticipate when going to the dentist. Whether it is soothing background music piped throughout the modernlooking office, a hint of aromatherapy, a coffee and snack bar for patients on the go, private suites
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with luxurious massage chairs, two televisions, and scenic views with regular visits from cows in the pasture behind the office, Bliss Dental Lounge is a one-of-a-kind, innovative approach to dentistry. The office walls also showcase beautiful artwork available for purchase by local artists. Definitely a dental practice like no other. Even the practice’s
name conjures up images of happiness and relaxation. She has thought of everything. When you speak to Dr. Sheetal, it is easy to see that she is passionate about her career choice and want to make every patient and staff member feel like family.“I didn’t want to create a great office for the patients, but also the team. I believe in
cohesive team culture. We are like a family. Any patients walking in become part of that family.” “My vision is to change the perception of Dental Experience. People dislike visiting the dentist, and that’s what we are trying to change: Our core values are to always do right by our patients, compassionate care, and honesty. Getting to meet people and bringing
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smiles to them is what I love best about my job. We get to meet different people and share interesting stories. At the end of the day, when they come with a problem, and I’m able to fix it and help them, that’s the most rewarding thing. I’m passionate about dentistry, and I enjoy coming to work every single day.” Dr. Sheetal’s interest in dentistry came from her fear. “As a child, I was always a fearful and nervous dental patient. And I always wanted to make a career helping people. Both things merged for me. When I started practicing, I ever paid close attention to my patients’ dental anxiety and what prevented them from seeking dental care. “I’ve taken everything into consideration and paid attention to every small detail to give an Elite Dental experience to my patients .” A graduate of Boston
University, Dr. Sheetal moved to Florida to escape the snow and frigid temperatures in the north. When she opened her practice in December 2019, she could think of a no better location than Lutz, the city she called home for the last 12 years. “I wanted to serve the people where I live.” Bliss Dental Lounge is a state-of-the-art -facility providing services in general family dentistry, implants, dentures, crowns, bridges, Invisalign, veneers, teeth whitening, emergency dentistry, and will soon provide sleep apnea dental appliance solutions. “We offer several anxietyfree sedation options, including Laughing Gas. We offer the latest and best in modern CBCT technology on-site and Oral Cancer Screening technology.” While some people avoid the dentist due to lack of dental insurance, Bliss Dental Lounge offers
a unique and exclusive inhouse membership program, payment plans, and thirdparty financing. “For less than $30 per month, our yearly membership gets them the basic services and cleanings they need and also saves them money on any additional services if needed,” she said. In February during Children’s Oral Health month, Dr. Sheetal will be offering a day of free dental care for up to 25 children, providing cleanings, exams, and fluoride treatment. Information will be posted on Bliss Dental Lounge’s Facebook page. Dr. Sheetal further elaborated that 1 in 2 adults have Periodontal disease ( gum disease ), and periodontal disease works on the same chronic inflammation model seen in systemic conditions like Heart disease, Diabetes, Alzheimer’s, and many more.
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Research has found a direct bi-directional link between the two. “Dental care isn’t expensive. Dental neglect is,” Dr. Sheetal clarified. “ Getting routine checkups and cleaning helps in detecting dental problems in the early stages and treating them predictably with minimal treatment. Our office has flexible hours and Saturday appointments and online scheduling for your convenience.” Bliss Dental Lounge is located at 17735 Hunting Bow Cir, Lutz. Hours of operation are Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, and Friday from 9 am to 5 pm, Thursday 10a to 6 pm, and Saturday 9 am to 2 pm by appointment. To learn more or make an appointment, call 813995-6175 or visit https:// www.blissdentallounge. com or Facebook: BlissDentalLounge.
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Tech Talk with Bob: Is Your Router Protecting You? When digital connections replaced analog connections, communication became faster and cheaper. You could simultaneously connect more than a couple hundred devices for the cost of about two or three phone lines, and they ran approximately 15 times faster than you could get from a single analog dialup phone line connection. This had a tremendous affect on the communications industry. You saw it was happening. Remember years back when you could, all of a sudden, call anywhere in the country anytime for one low monthly rate? What happened to all of those long-distance phone charges we used to dread when we opened our phone bill? Digital technology replacing analog technology has changed
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the communication industry forever; not just in the convenience of the faster speeds and lower phone bills, but also in the way you need to protect yourself online. The digital technology our computers/phones/ tablets we now use in our homes or offices have a central communication point, the router. The device we
call the router or wirelessrouter (wifi-router) actually contains multiple devices that perform various functions for your network. One of these functions is the potential to keep you protected from people and other machines that want to invade your network connection without your knowledge. Sometimes it is a cheapskate neighbor not wanting to pay for their own internet connection and sometimes it might be a cyber criminal preying on your unprotected network to use it for nefarious activities. Most routers are designed to work right out of the box. The router manufacturer wants your setup to be quick and simple. Although the router is configured to work out of the box, it is not configured, out of the box, to keep you safe.
Creating a safer network and internet environment is your responsibility. A responsibility that unfortunately many people overlook mainly because they are unaware that they even need to do it. Some think that just because their router is doing everything they want it to do (provide internet access) that they just assume that it is doing all the things they need it to do. Including keeping them safe. Often times people assume that their internet service provider (ISP) will keep them safe online. That is a dangerous assumption. Remember, your ISP’s job is to provide you with internet access, not protect your network. You don’t typically select your ISP and router by the safety they can provide. Selection is usually based
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on price and speed (watch any of the TV ads trying to get your ISP dollars). And it stands to reason, that when you select an ISP and install a router you’re interested in how well it provides you internet service not how it protects you. How many times have you purchased a car because you liked the seatbelts and airbags? Some ISPs may offer a token form of protection like a free antivirus program. In the old days of dialup internet connections antivirus was enough. Today’s digital world requires more protection than a wifi password and antivirus software. Routers can be configured to keep you safer online. Knowing how to configure them and actually taking the time to do it can be a bit of a chore. And to do it right, does require a certain degree of expertise. I highly recommend that you seek a
cyber security professional for help with this particular project. Protecting access to your network is a critical component to your online safety. Criminals will exploit the easy, unprotected systems. Please do not neglect hardening the security on the device that is your gateway to the internet, your router. Be Safer Online! Never enter confidential information into any web site until you know the web site and your computer system is safe. If you are not sure your system is safe, please have it looked over by a Professionally Certified Computer Technician. If you need a certified professional, call us now at 727-534-4000. We’ve been helping folks restore their peace of mind, and sanity, with their technology for decades.
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Interplay Therapy Center
In the heart of Trinity lies a string of doctors’ offices and medical buildings. A seemingly casual area that goes about its business. It may not appear that anything too special is going on. But the work happening in office number 1816 is nothing short of a miracle. Within those walls is a woman who wants to change the idealities of modern motor and sensory therapy. She is ushering in a new wave of therapy to show that those who cannot communicate with speech may actually be the smartest among us. She hopes to refocus the lens through which people with autism are viewed, and to show the world that her clients have so much to offer. Dana Johnson, Ph.D., M.S., OTR/L, is an occupational therapist who specializes in working with children and adults with motor and sensory differences, including autism, apraxia, and other developmental differences. Dr. Johnson started her private practice in 2010. She is also the founder of Invictus Academy Tampa Bay, a private non-profit school serving students K through 12. Dana is working to change the mindset of those who believe that these individuals cannot reach their goals. The spectrum of autism is broad and complicated. Some people with motor and sensory differences are well integrated into society but may struggle in social situations. The clients Dr. Johnson sees are on the opposite end. Most have been labeled as “low-functioning” – mainly because they are not able to communicate with their speech. Dr. Johnson has been a clinician since 2006 and now has a wide range of clients ranging in age from 3 to 35. The common challenge most of her clients face is difficulty with behavior, and many cannot communicate reliably through speech. When asked why she chose this field, Dana says “I wanted to change the typical
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perceptions of autism and I felt the need to help people understand how smart those with autism and similar diagnoses truly are.” She has taken great strides in her field, and because of that, she now speaks statewide and nationally at medical seminars and events. The concept of Presuming Competence is not only central to her practice, it is her motto. “Presuming competence means that I believe ALL individuals can think, learn and understand. Too often, my clients are marginalized and viewed as intellectually delayed because they are unable to communicate through speech or demonstrate what they know. Nobody should have to prove that they are smart. We don’t assume incompetence for typical people so why do we tend to do this with autistic individuals?” Dr. Johnson continues to advocate for nonspeaking individuals everywhere. What Does Interplay Do? To increase the motor and sensory abilities of her clients, Dr. Johnson uses fitness and functional movement exercises. She says, “the feedback I receive from my clients
is that the harder they work out, the more it enables them to move their bodies more purposefully. It also can decrease anxiety significantly.” She even puts her clients through CrossFit workouts which is a combination of cardio and strength exercises built to develop all parts of the body simultaneously in a practical way. Dana completed her Level 1 CrossFit certification so that she could ensure safety and an individualized program for her clients. Her workouts are a radical concept in the field of autism, as most occupational therapy interventions focus primarily on sensory integration therapy. Current research in the field of autism points to it as a movement disorder rather than a cognitive disorder — exercise and functional movement help to build new motor pathways so that the body can function more purposefully. Many of Dr. Johnson’s clients are non-speaking or are unreliable speakers and her focus on supporting movement extends to their ability to communicate. Speech is a motor task and not a cognitive task. Typically, we associate those who have limited speech as intellectually or cognitively delayed, which is often incorrect. By
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practicing and building gross motor skills, non-speaking individuals can communicate, which opens up a whole new world for them and their caregivers. Spelling to Communicate (S2C) is a form of Assistive Technology that supports individuals who are nonspeaking or unreliably speaking. S2C teaches purposeful motor skills to point to letters to spell as a reliable form of communication. Current research suggests that those with autism and other sensory-motor differences have inefficient motor and sensory feedback to coordinate their brain and body to work together purposefully. We call this the “brain-body disconnect.” With practice and alongside rigorously trained and skilled practitioners, individuals become more fluent and build new motor pathways between the brain and body. As a result, purposeful motor skills improve, and individuals move from pointing to letters to typing on the keyboard. Responses also move from concrete to more abstract allowing for individual expression and original thoughts from the speller. Because Dr. Johnson combines S2C with fitness, her clients begin to develop more purposeful motor skills for their daily tasks, working in the community, and, most importantly, communication. Behavioral challenges and anxiety also decrease as a result of improved brain and body connections. Dr. Johnson took out a laminated piece of paper with the alphabet, some symbols, and numbers on it. This is what her clients use to communicate and engage in conversations. With 26 letters, there are infinite possibilities! Remember, some of her clients were written off as completely unable to communicate. With her efforts, she has flipped that into what she calls “some of the smartest people I know.”
is for everyone - communication is a right. To support communication, we need to realize that those with sensory and motor differences like autism and apraxia need to work on purposeful movement to support their goals. We work on purposeful movement through fitness and S2C.” Her clients are an extraordinary group of humans who dream, live, and wish just like everyone else. They have a disability, but it does not define them. Dana hopes to continue to speak nationwide at events and for her clinic to grow exponentially. She also wants to continue to teach others about non-speaking individuals so that the community can embrace their abilities. Support is what the field needs. Dr. Johnson works to support not only her clients but their parents and family members while educating other medical professionals. Those who are affected by motor and sensory differences are not unable to communicate; they communicate differently. Though I wish I could have spent more time with Dr. Johnson and her clients, my experience with her has opened my eyes to the kind of people our community has to offer. She is an inspiration and is leading the way to improve methods of communication for those with motor and sensory differences.
What’s Next? I asked Dr. Johnson what the future holds for Interplay Therapy Center, to which she responded: “I want the community to know about how important communication
Spelling to Communicate (S2C) is a form of assistive technology that we are using to support many of our nonspeaking clients. We have learned and will continue to learn so much about our clients and who they really are!
For more information, contact Dr. Dana L. Johnson Ph.D., M.S., OTR/L (727)-326-7791 dana@ interplaytherapycenter.com Interplay Therapy Center is located at 1816 Health Care Dr, Trinity, FL 34655. Business hours are Mon. - Fri. 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM. www.interplaytherapycenter.com
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Historic evening with Anne Frank’s Stepsister. Eva Schloss to Speak in New Port Richey Humanity shines most brightly through our collective experiences, and through the recounting of personal stories that teach to spread Hope, Tolerance, and Love On Monday, March 23, Mrs. Eva Schloss will share her experiences as the childhood friend and step sister of Anne Frank, including accounts of the publishing of Anne’s famed diary. The presentation will take place at the Center for the Arts River Ridge at 7:00 pm and will be suitable for people of all ages including teens. Families of all faiths are invited to attend. This is a special opportunity to hear a first-hand account from someone whose life intersected with one of the most compelling figures in our history. Chabad of West Pasco is honored to host the event. Tickets are available at: www.ChabadWP.com/AnnFrank Date: March 23, 2020 - See below for more details of the event. In 1938, Germany invaded Austria, causing many Jewish families to flee Austria to avoid persecution. Among the emigrants was 8-year old Eva Geiringer, who with her mother, brother, and father moved first to Belgium and then to Holland, where one of her neighbors was a German Jewish girl of the same age named Anne Frank.
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Anne and Eva became friends and playmates (though, as Eva would say many years later, Anne was “much more grownup and mature than me”). They passed the time by skipping, playing hopscotch and marbles, and drinking lemonade that Anne’s mother prepared. Ultimately, both Anne and Eva; along with their families, were deported to the Auschwitz concentration camp. Later Anne and Eva would become stepsisters. Eva survived her concentration camp experience and made her way to England, where she married Zvi Schloss and raised three daughters. She worked as a studio photographer and ran an antique shop. Anne Frank did not survive Auschwitz, but she kept a diary that did. Since 1985, Eva Schloss has devoted herself to holocaust education and global peace. She has recounted her wartime experiences in more than one thousand speaking engagements. She has written two books and has had a play written about her life. In 1999 Eva signed the Anne Frank Peace Declaration along with United Nations Secretary General Kofi Annan and the niece of Raul Wallenberg, a legendary figure who rescued thousands of Jews in Budapest. Eva joins many courageous
individuals who work tirelessly to end the violence and bigotry that continue to plague our world. Eva’s story is powerful and difficult to imagine, yet her insightful message reminds us that life is precious and fragile; that the creative spirit is stronger than fear, that the power of good is immeasurable, and that love makes all the difference. Event Info: Monday, March 23, 2020 at 7:00pm
Center for the Arts River Ridge - 11646 Town Center Rd. NPR www.ChabadWP.com/ AnnFrank Ticket prices are $15 if booked by March 1, $18 if booked thereafter. A 10% discount applies to groups of 10+. A Sponsor VIP package, featuring priority seating, a private reception & cocktail party with Mrs. Schloss is also available. Call the center for more details 727-376-3366
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“Dr. Machhar”
story continued from page 1. sional and helpful. Dr. Machhar is very caring and I’m glad to have found a doctor who is willing to take time with his patients.” In their own words, patients’ testimonials are consistent with third party reviewer, www.health.usnews.com, a research firm that assessed Dr. Machhar with the highest ranking: EXCELLENT. According to US News, “When choosing a provider, it can be helpful to review other patients’ experiences. [We] publish patient experience ratings from Fountain Analytics, which aggregates patient reviews from over a hundred sites to compile information about 10 different patient experience metrics.” Dr. Machhar’s ratings are based on 74 patient reviews in the past 12 months. His EXCELLENT rating was measured according to the following criteria: Ability to Answer Questions, Clarity of Instructions, Providers’ Follow-Up, Amount of Time with Patient, and Provider’s Attitude. He received a “Very Positive” rat-
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ing for Thoroughness of Examination. Aligned with the US News assessment, a patient wrote, “Dr Machhar.is very caring, takes time to listen to you, he keeps you well informed about your meds, labs, etc., and has very caring and knowledgeable staff. He will answer any of your questions at any time. I am so grateful he is my doctor.” At Healthcare Associates of Pasco County, Dr. Prakash Machhar, MD and his team are not only recipients of Humana’s 5 Star Award of Excellence, but they are involved members of the Greater Pasco community where they specialize in Internal Medicine, Primary Care, and Geriatric Care. Located at 6811 State Road 54 in New Port Richey, Dr. Machhar, a Board Certified Internist, is also affiliated with multiple hospitals in the area, including Medical Center of Trinity and Morton Plant North Bay Hospital. “It really gives one peace-of-mind to know that Dr. Machhar will oversee hospital care if necessary.” Dr. Machhar explained that his practice focuses on preventing the need for hospital care whenever possible, so he
provides critical care in his New Port Richey office, “What is most important to my patients is that they are able to see me on an emergency basis…I see them right away when necessary.” A trained team of professionals staff the office and make every effort to schedule patients when they need to be seen by the doctor immediately. A focus on going above and beyond with his patients is part of the reason that Humana has recognized Dr. Machhar and Healthcare Associates of Pasco County as the #1 Ranked Physicians’ Practice in Quality Care by Humana in the state of Florida. In an article published by Cleveland Clinic, one of the nation’s top health providers explained the importance of having a relationship with their physician, “A family physician can be the right answer for most healthcare situations. Medical emergencies are an exception. An emergency is a valid reason to visit the emergency room — but far too many Americans use the ER or urgent care as their primary source of care. It’s one reason among many we spend more as a country on healthcare than anyone else,
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yet still rank far from the top in health outcomes.” Dr. Machhar focuses on creating relationships and producing good outcomes with his patients whose needs range from preventative care to urgent care. If you are covered by a qualified Humana health insurance plan, you have access to state of the art care at Healthcare Associates of Pasco County where Dr. Machhar has been an exclusive Humana
Health Care Provider for over 20 years. By partnering with one specific insurance provider, Dr. Machhar is able to spend less time on paper work and more time with his patients. As well, Dr. Machhar is very familiar with other Humana physicians to whom he can refer and follow-up with his patients. Patients Jim and Diane Rizzo wrote, “My husband and I have been going to Dr. Machhar for approximately seven (7)
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years, and we couldn’t be happier. He takes the time to get to know you and doesn’t do any service he thinks is unnecessary and will refer to other medical professionals when needed.” Together with his wife Paresha and team of caring staff at Healthcare Associates of Pasco County, Dr. Macchar continues to focus on providing quality care with established patients, and he continues to accept new patients. Both new and existing patients report receiving dependable, reliable care that is hard to find. Dr. Machhar offers same-day appointments, and patients like knowing that the doctor on call is the one who knows them personally and will treat them himself. To inquire about becoming a patient of Dr. Machhar at Healthcare Associates of Pasco County, call 727-815-1550. For more information on becoming insured by Humana, call 1-800-457-4708, and reference Healthcare Associates of Pasco County #125287. Join Dr. Machhar’s practice to receive the time and care from a physician who will treat you personally and thoroughly.
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World Record Holder Increases His Drive with National Rejuvenation Centers
Ryan Winther By Ethan Lichtenberg Long Drive Champion and world-record holder for the fastest club swing ever recorded (227 miles per hour!), Ryan Winther, was tired. His motivation for competing, training, and business ventures were dwindling. The days of appearing on the Golf Channel driving a ball through their distance simulator to the amazement of the hosts and crew seemed distant. Although still in shape, Ryan was not as strong and was putting on body fat despite a healthy diet. Ryan’s co-host on NBC sports, “Driven” golf show, Charlie Zamora, took notice. He knew former Olympic weight-lifting champion, Jeff Wittmer, who is the business manager for National Rejuvenation Centers, St. Louis. He heard about the success of their protocols with Rejuvenation Medicine – the combination of bio-identical hormone optimization, personalized exercise, and nutrition protocols. Ryan agreed that
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something had to be done to get his drive back and called Jeff, who recommended that Ryan seek treatment from the founder of rejuvenation medicine, and author of the best-selling book “Rejuvenation; Real People, Real Results” Dr. Bartley Kerr at National Rejuvenation Centers in Palm Harbor. This was a pivotal and personal moment for Ryan. Still, he felt it necessary for others to see what he was going through and devoted an entire episode of “Driven” to his experience at NRC with Dr. Kerr. (The episode can be seen on NBC sports or YouTube https://youtu.be/ tBCNqjiFocI ). Initial blood work was reviewed, and it was found that not only was his testosterone low, but his cholesterol was also terrible. A plan was formulated for Ryan by Dr. Kerr and his medical team to not only get his drive distance back but to get his cholesterol under control and get “his drive for life” back. It worked! After only eight weeks,
Ryan’s Total Cholesterol dropped almost 200 points from 349 to 166, his triglycerides dropped from 233 to 66, and his HDL “good cholesterol” rose 13 points from 30 to 43! “The energy and mood elevation is incredible!” says Ryan. “I am enjoying training again, and my head is clear, and I am focused. I am motivated again to set some big records! Most importantly, I am healthy as my cholesterol is back in line without taking cholesterol medication, and my health insurance dropped my premiums thirty dollars a month!” “Hormone optimization is part of the puzzle, but Rejuvenation Medicine also focuses on the nutrition requirements of the patient and appropriate exercises to fit the patient’s needs,” says Dr. Kerr. “We revamped Ryan’s weight-lifting routine to focus not only on traditional strength movements but functional golf-swing specific movements as well to offer more clubhead speed and flexibility.
The nutrition component was tailored to Ryan’s need to maintain muscle mass and get slightly leaner. It is nice to see Ryan happy, recharged, and energetic!” National Rejuvenation Centers now has two locations: one in Palm Harbor, Florida, and one in St. Louis, Missouri. Hormone optimization therapy is much simpler than you might imagine. When a person is in their twenties, everything seems to be synced up both physically and mentally. But as you get older, age begins to take a toll. It appears that young people have an unfair advantage in life. As you get older, you begin to hit a wall. Dr. Kerr says most of his patients explain the feeling as “blah.” If you’re a male or female over the age of thirty-five, the chances are that you know this feeling. You don’t necessarily feel terrible, but you don’t feel as good as you could either. NRC provides middle age and older patients the hormone values of those healthy twenty-
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year-olds, who rarely get sick, have high metabolisms, and get results when they work out in the gym! These hormone levels are what Dr. Kerr refers to in his book as “optimal” levels. Your first visit with Dr. Kerr will be an in-depth health history and discussion with Dr. Kerr, and a medical examination will be performed by one of NRC’s doctors or nurse practitioners. Blood work is ordered to determine health and hormone deficiencies. After the results come back, Dr. Kerr and his team at NRC develop a plan to get your hormones in balance with hormone optimization therapy. Once these hormones are back to the way they should be, he recommends a personalized nutrition plan and exercise programs. Within five weeks, most patients return to him feeling
the way they did when they were in their twenties, and many feel even better. Their blood profiles usually change for the positive, body fat is reduced, and muscle is generally increased, and the mood is elevated! Dr. Kerr told me, “the best part is that it doesn’t take working out countless hours and eating next to nothing! Because these men and women have the optimal hormone levels of athletic twenty-year-olds, but also have the muscle fibers of a person over forty, long hours in the gym are counter-productive. The majority of NRC’s patients exercise no more than three and a half hours a week with specific methods to maximize outcomes from their training.” He goes on to say, “People are often shocked by how much food they can eat while losing body fat on the program.
Dr. Bartley Kerr, owner and founder, National Rejuvenation Centers They have to realize that since their hormones are optimal and they are exercising, they have to eat similar to athletes at the training table. Their metabolisms may be the best they have ever been, and healthy exercising adults need
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the fuel to keep them fit and healthy! Even better, hormone optimization will not break the bank and is more affordable than ever! Many people spend more each month on vitamins than NRC’s patients spend on their prescriptions! If you are tired, gaining weight, lost your libido, feel a loss of motivation, or just feel “off,” Rejuvenation Medicine may be right for you. Get your “drive” back, like long drive champion Ryan Winther, and be a champion in life! Call National Rejuvenation Centers today! National Rejuvenation Centers, LLC is located at 34278 U.S. Hwy 19 N. Palm Harbor, Fl 34648. Call 727785-5652, or visit www.nrcenters.com
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26 FEBRUARY 2020
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“Barbers”
story continued from page 1. comfort of home, with live TV programming, comfortable seating, and a friendly and welcoming environment. “I love taking my son to Van Dyke Barbershop,” says Christina V. “It’s nice knowing you have the flexibility to make an appointment 24/7 or simply walk in. They offer great cuts, reasonable prices, and the owner and staff are very friendly.” The shop offers a plethora of services that range from haircuts to shaves, to fades. Starting with classic scissor cuts, layering, flat tops, trims, beard sculpting, eyebrow arching and so much more. “[Overall], the main reason I got into barbering was that it is a great way to build up somebody’s confidence. Whether it is for a job interview, or just for kids going back to school, I always felt like barbering was a good thing to help someone’s [self-esteem],” Aparicio said. “It is not just about a haircut. We like to build relationships. We are a community barbershop and our goal here is to make valuable connections and for them to come out with a smile and a nice haircut.” Beginning with cutting hair as a teenager, Aparicio worked all the way up to barbering which became his true passion. In 2017, he used his experience and rapidly growing clientele to open Van Dyke Road Barbershop, located in the Keystone area. Talent, Experience, Confidence & Adaptability Rick Aparicio and his talented and caring staff have extensive experience in their craft, making his shop one of the best town! The team consists of four talented barbers and stylists that can give you or your loved ones a perfect haircut, shave or fade! “We can give anyone a nice haircut. It doesn’t matter what their hair type is,” said. Whether you have long, curly, or coarse hair, all the barbers are trained and educated to be able to handle all types and thickness of hair.” Versatility is an important part of any barber’s talents, and a great barber will be skilled at performing many different types of haircuts. Every member of Rick’s staff is familiarized with a variety of techniques,
has an excellent eye for detail, and is able to work with clients who have different hair types and styles. “A skilled barber is someone who has the ability to cut and style multiple hair types from all backgrounds,” says Qianna B. “I will continue to bring my son Taylor to this barbershop because Rick really is that good! Everyone who works there is extremely talented and truly passionate about the work they do.” Talent and confidence are also essential
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(L to R) Yami, Denise, Rick Aparicio (owner) and Star are wating for you to stop in to experience the best cut and shave you’ll ever have! skills for any barber, but great barbers are also adaptable and always willing to learn and listen to their client’s needs and suggestions. Rick and his staff will listen to your needs and will not rest until you are fully satisfied with your cut, trim or style. “Just had a cut with Rick. Excellent work! He took his time with my hair and beard,” says recent customer William T. “He doesn’t get offended if you make him recut or reshape the beard, which I think it is very professional. He told me it’s like getting
a new car...the buyer has to be ultimately satisfied, and I was. Rick did an amazing job providing me with the satisfaction of the look I was really looking for. I will be back.” The Art of Shaving and Fading The term ‘fade’ originated in ethnic barbershops and has become the popular term for an aggressively tight taper in men’s hair. Hair at the sides and back is cut as close as possible with clippers and “fades,” or tapers, up into almost any length on top. The hair on top can be styled neatly or given a messy texture with gel, paste, or pomade. Though it is standard to get a fade as close to the skin as possible, it doesn’t have to be so dramatic. Some fade haircuts have a very shallow skin-tight area that may last for only an inch at the back of the neck. This does require quite a bit of skill from the barber because you need to get a great, smooth taper in a shorter space, but it’s a great look for many men. “Fades can be tricky if you go to someone with little to no experience,” says Rick. “The key to ‘fades’ is to get a nice, even blend all the way up the head. It takes a combination of trimmer and blade sizes to achieve a great fade, so it requires patience from both the client and the barber. We will never rush you and will make sure you leave satisfied with the results.” “I went in this afternoon to get my fade fixed from an hour earlier bad fade from another location,” says Ray R. “They got me in right away and the service was amazing. The shop was immaculately clean and the
atmosphere had such a good vibe. Hands down the best barbershop I’ve been in a very long time!” Van Dyke Barbers also provides customers with great shaves. Starting at $32, men can receive a top-notch shave, while being pampered at the same time. Barbers will use a steamer, hot towel and an electric massager first, then apply preshave oil and a crown lather, all before shaving with and against/sideways across the face..“Like old school, we whip up the lather,” Aparicio said. After every shave, men will receive a cold towel and an after-shave balm ensuring that they leave the shop looking their best! “We do it all here. We really focus on giving people a great shave and we have good products here [to do that]. We have the best feather razors around and technique in terms of getting a close shave. We really pamper them when they want to get a shave,” Aparicio added. Amazing Reviews = Amazing Service The barbershop consistently receives positive reviews on both their Facebook and Google pages. Over 100 people across all their social media and Google accounts have given Rick and his staff a perfect five-star review for their services and welcoming atmosphere. One routine customer complimented the amazingly fast and professional service by saying “Like always, Rick and his staff give the best cuts in town. It is easy and fast to book an appointment online. (www.vandykebarbers.
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com) [Just] chose your time, your barber and [by the time] you arrive, they are waiting for you. Brian W. wrote about the positive experience he had at the shop by writing “My hair cut at Van Dyke Road Barbershop was perfect. They take care of their customers there and pay attention to what you want. When I left the shop I felt great and I looked great and that is exactly the feeling you want after a haircut.” Among the numerous highly-rated reviews, another customer said “If you’re looking for a quality barbershop, look no further. Rick and his team are fantastic! Give them a try and you’ll become a regular!” Stop in for “The Works”! Take the first step in getting your perfect haircut today! Visit their website to schedule your appointment or just walk in any time 9:00 am- 7:00 pm, Monday through Friday, or 9:00 am 5:00 pm on Saturday. If you come into the shop and bring the coupon within this Tampa Bay News and Lifestyles magazine, all new clients will receive $5 off a service totaling $20 or more! Clients can also receive a $10 off “The works: haircut & shave” typically valued at $45 for only $35. Come pamper yourself and get the “best haircut or shave you have ever had.” (see their ad in this issue!) Van Dyke Road Barbershop is located at 6054 Van Dyke Rd Lutz, FL 33558. Phone: 813-443-3559. Visit them online at www.vandykebarbers.com
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FEBRUARY 2020 31