Florida Women October 2023

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FLORIDA WOMEN MAGAZINE (FWM), is published monthly reaching women from all walks of life, from entrepreneurs and established businesses to women who make a difference in our community throughout Hernando, Hillsborough, East and West Pasco, Polk and Pinellas Counties and surrounding areas in Central Florida.

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CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Deborah Bostock-Kelley

Paul Catala

Gary S. Hatrick

Steve Papola

Nitish S. Rele

Tina M. Spinks, MPA Rev. Jodi L. Suson-Calhoun

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Letter from the Publisher

Don't Forget To Look, Touch & Check!

Happy Fall!!! Maybe it doesn't feel like fall yet, but October is here. For me, being from Connecticut, September/October is fall. I am still in that mindset, even though it is 90 degrees outside. I am sure that I will never be a "true" Floridian in that respect.

This month is packed with events and editorial. It's Breast Cancer Awareness month. We talk about how women (and men) reach an understanding of the disease and how to navigate the next steps to take after a diagnosis. Cancer doesn't discriminate based on gender, age or nationality, nor are our pets immune to this potentially disease either.

On the lighter side, The All-Rise Foundation Coalition for the Homeless is helping the community along with the Caregivers Helping Hand donating to expecting mothers to be. Both are wonderful non-profits that deserve some attention for their work.

Need some advice when it comes to dealing with FEMA? Read this important article in our Money Talk section.

We discovered a new Italian restaurant in Dade City! Read all about Olio's inside and pay them a visit for true Italian fare!

As usual, there is more. From facts about water filters to health to cars. Inside you will find lots of events that are beginning this month too! Fun things to do with or without kids. There is the upcoming Car Show, Pep Rally, Halloween Howl and Harvest Festival in Zephyrhills. Dade City begins their fall activities this month right through December, read all about it inside. Just get out and enjoy yourself, and stop to smell the roses!

FYI - If you are into plants like I am, the 7th Annual Gardening 365 Festival & Plant Sale by Pasco County Master Gardener Volunteers will be held on October 7th. The event has been moved to Wesley Chapel District Park 7727 Boyette Rd, Wesley Chapel, FL 33545.

In addition, the USF Botanical Gardens, Tampa will be having their annual Fall Plant Sale (almost 100 plant vendors) on Oct. 14th & 15th. I'll be there selling Begonias. Come by and say hello! Happy Fall!!!!!

From All Of Us at FWM

Celebrating Our

Fun Is Par For The Course In Dade City

There's nothing like a day on the course. You look to see where the hole is and take note of the obstacles and traps; position your ball and take your putter to send the ball on its way.

Putter you say? No one tees off with their putter at the golf course. I beg to differ. They do if it's a miniature golf course.

The 7th St. Mini Golf Parlour is located across 7th Street from the Woman's Club in Dade City. It celebrates its one year anniversary this month offering fun for families and friends and fellow employees from folks in Dade

The day-to day operations are run by Brandy and Chris Whitten and her husband who are co-owners along with Jessica and Robert Borras, owners of the American Pizza Oven at 37941 Meridian Ave. in Dade City.

"We are an indoor 18-hole mini golf course, its black light, neon lights and 80's music - definitely that old school vibe," Brandy said. "We also have board games and card games. We have a little over 100 different types of board games and card games that people can come play. We host birthday parties and events and celebrations. We even do private events and team building.”

"On October 16th, it will be one year that we've been open to the public," Brandy added excitedly.

"Our golf course is a traditional indoor golf course," Brandy explained. "My husband and I along with our partners and our kids built the whole course from the ground up. We built it, we painted it, we did it all. We have one hole that is a plinko-style. You shoot the ball over and it goes down the plinko pegs. We have another that is like skee-ball and that is our last hole. That I also call our ball collector. We have an "all in," which is a very popular one. It doesn't have a starting position. You go with four or less people and they are all in. So you start at the same time. Whoever makes it in first gets the hole in one, the second then gets two, then three and then four."

A round takes an average 45 minutes to play for groups of two to four. Par is about 50. It cost $10.95 for adults and $6.95 for those 12 and under. They also offer a military discount, a law enforcement discount and a discount for AAA members who have their AAA card.

There are tables for those who choose to play board or card games. Refreshments include candy bars, snacks and sodas and food trucks when they are available. You can call your favorite event food truck to see when they may be visiting the parlour.

"What's really cool is that customers are multi-generational, you don't have to be a certain age," Brandy said. "It's all generations." She has seen kids aged three or four come with their families and seniors as old as 92 coming to hang out with their family and even play. The parlour has been used for a day-long team building meeting for a local office. The whole business can be rented during their off-hours for private events. It is possible to get a private event during their regular operations, but there is, of course, an upcharge if they are going to close to the public during regular business hours.

"One thing we like to tell everyone when they come in is that this is

1st Anniversary

a classic, very traditional small business," Brandy said. "This is a family-run business. My husband and I home-school our kids, so we do schooling at the parlour. My kids range from 16 to six and they actually help run the operation. It's a family-like environment. That is what we are trying to build here."

Still, while the 7th St. Mini-Golf Parlour may have an 80's vibe there are more modern vibrations about to shake things up. "We're actually going to be starting a VR [Virtual Reality] game," Brandy revealed. "We're starting with one of the Oculus [Quest] 2s and we have a VR mini golf. Later, we're going to add on more Oculuses and then get to the point where we can actually do a Virtual Reality Escape Room. We're going to move forward to try to bridge that old style and that modern style in a really cool format."

You'll notice that "parlour" in the name of the business is not without a U. Just make sure it is not missing YOU either. Stop in for a visit.

The 7th St. Mini-Golf Parlour is located at 13841 7th Street in Dade City, Florida. Hours are Monday and Tuesday: Closed; Wednesday and Thursday: 12 p.m. to 9 p.m.; Friday: 2 p.m. to 10 p.m.; Saturday: 10 a.m. to10 p.m.; and Sunday: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. You can contact them at (352) 437-4715 or through their website: 7thstreetminigolf.com.

is a long-time journalist and photographer in east Pasco County. Born in Pennsylvania, his family moved to New York where he lived until he left Friendship, N.Y. for the USMC. He lived For several years in North Carolina and moved to Zephyrhills Florida in 1985. Gary is now semi-retired and when there is no national pandemic can often be found sitting in the back corner at McDonald's reading. He can be contacted at highroadzhills@aol.com or through his Facebook page.

http://www.7thstreetminigolf.com/

Hours: Mon & Tues: Closed Wed & Thu: 12pm - 9pm Fri: 12pm - 10pm Sat: 10am - 10pm Sun: 10am - 6pm

Gary S. Hatrick

Delicious, Authentic Italian Food

When Molina Morino and Andi Dragoni decided to come to Florida, it was through the help of Dade City’s locals. Both Chefs, Molina, an International Chef began their careers in Germany, ending up with Italian restaurants in Dallas, Texas and California. In 2019 they made a decision to sell everything and move back to Europe. However, Covid had hit and plans changed.

The couple received a call from their current landlords, Nickie and Steve of Dade City, who had purchased the building from its previous owners Jim and Carol Henry. Convincing Molina and Andi to relocate in the quaint town of Dade City with promises to help them get established and grow in the community.

With the help of friends turned partners, Stephan and Lona Sapp, Olio’s was born! “Everyone is family,” says Molina. With the input and help from friends, the restaurant was opened and has widely been accepted in the community!

Olio’s is the latest Italian restaurant to open in Dade City, located in East Pasco County, well known for its antique shopping, Kumquat festival and more. Now it will be known for the best Italian food in the city!

With both Chefs on board, you are guaranteed a delicious “home-made” meal. All ingredients are fresh, never frozen, made from scratch. Family recipes handed down along with traditional dishes where Molina adds “flavor” to change it up a bit making her dishes unique.

Fresh, home-made ingredients are the key – from the bread in the morning to the main dishes to the cheeses all the way to the desserts. Molina says, “I love to make fresh bread every morning. Everything has to be perfect. If it’s not fresh, then it’s not perfection.”

The couple also made sure their restaurant reflected the same way they feel about their food. The mural on the walls, floors, tables, etc., were all hand made. “I wanted a lovely place,” says Molina.

“We want our customers to come when they are hungry, and enjoy themselves. I recommend our ‘Party Style’ platters. Portions are large and this gives everyone a chance to taste multiple dishes,” Molina adds, “No one leaves hungry.” She continues, “I want to offer something for everybody. We are planning lunch specials complete with bread or salad, a complete meal.”

As Molina spoke about dessert, her eyes lit up. “I make all kinds of bakeries to ice cream. We have spaghetti ice cream, lasagna ice cream, pizza ice cream, all made here and all delicious.”

In addition, there will be specials offered throughout the year. “I like change,” says Molina. Looking for something special? Just ask, Molina can make it! Take out will be available soon and Pizza too! There is also a full bar to compliment your meal and the staff is warm and friendly, just like the owners!

Pay a visit to Olio Italian Restaurant for delicious authentic Italian food. You will not be disappointed!

OLIO • 352.437.3892

Open: Tues, Wed & Thurs: 11am-2:30pm; 4:30pm-9pm Fri & Sat: 11am-2:30pm, 4:30pm-12am | Closed Mon & Tues 14121 7th Street, Dade City, Florida 33525

oliorestaurants@gmail.com www.oliorestaurants.com

“I had the pleasure of dining at Olio last night and it was an incredible experience. The food was delicious, the service was excellent, and the atmosphere was perfect. I can’t wait to come back!”

MAKE AN IMPACT Give From Your Heart

By Paul Catala

Zandra Eardly’s goals are straightforward and practical. Among them are providing meals, showers, personal hygiene kits, clean clothes, mentoring classes and assistance with housing, government benefits and healthcare services.

And it’s been through Eardly’s diligence, persistence, financial support and her 10 children that she has been able to accomplish most, if not all, of her goals.

In 2020, Eardly founded the All Rise Foundation Coalition for the Homeless Inc. (ARFCH), with a mission of fighting homelessness in the community and assisting the homeless with their basic necessities. According to the Foundation’s website, it’s “helping the homeless with a new journey back to a better life.”

Over the past three years, from her Riverview home and with the help of her children and family, Eardly has been a beacon of benevolence in the south Hillsborough County community, having served home-prepared lunches and distributing personal hygiene bags every other Saturday – to date, more than 9,600 lunches she and her family’s gift of generosity have been distributed.

Included in Eardly’s mission to help end homelessness in Hillsborough County is social services assistance, connecting those in need with ways and means to become employable through ARFCH help or through various government programs available to everyone.

And eventually, Eardly says she wants to open a permanent Resource Center that will be staffed by medical professionals offering medical screenings to assist the homeless in maintaining their health and living healthier lifestyles.

Eardly, 56, says through donations and the help of her children, she’s handing out over 200 bag lunches every other Saturday afternoon from 10:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Using her own funds to finance her altruistic venture, she says she’s always been a nurturer with her own children and wants to extend that to others. She’s up at 5 a.m. Saturdays to get lunches and goods together. Included in those lunches are often ham and cheese sandwiches, chips, cookies and bottled water and “a can of Vienna sausages for later.”

“I want everything to be fresh and I want people to be treated with dignity and respect. A lot of it is, everybody has the same problems – whether alcohol, being out of work – that’s the real part of the story you hear when you’re out there talking to them. They don’t have the opportunity to change,” she says.

A certified nursing assistant nurse 1982 graduate of Blake High School, Tampa and a 1985 graduate of Florida College of Business, Tampa, Eardly has a passion for service and helping others. Through her work as an office manager for her 39-year-old son Lamar Davis’s healthcare business, she’s able to afford to do that. She adds even during the covid pandemic, “we wore our masks, put on gloves and we still were able to go out.”

It has also been through various ARFCH events that Eardly has been able to solicit contributions and raise funds for her outreach efforts and the ARFCH Resource Center she eventually hopes to build and open.

June 24 at Tampa’s River Tower Park, various vendors and outreach organizations came out to provide services and assistance information for those in need – medical services, hairstylists, employment agencies and transportation services. In addition, Cove Behavioral Health distributed overdose prevention kits and those attending were treated to hamburgers, hot dogs and lemonade.

And from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Dec. 23 at River Tower Park, the ARFCH will hold its “Christmas in the Park” event. That day, ARFCH volunteers will pass out 500 sleeping bags, 500 blankets and “nice, hot meals” and other resources.

There's a lot of work to do on top of school and jobs for Eardly and her family to keep the ARFCH functioning and fulfilled. But through her own persistence and the will of family, friends and outside providers, she hopes to maintain and expand the organization’s presence and influence.

“I just want to get (those in need) the opportunity to change their situations and get back on track. I’ve always loved helping people. I like to see the homeless population happy that someone cares; often, they don’t think anyone cares, but we do.”

Email for contact allrisefoundation@gmail.com, see www.allrisefoundation.org or call 813-553-9602.

NON-PROFITS: MAKING AN IMPACT IN OUR COMMUNITIES

Caregivers Helping Hand Inc. Gives Baby Shower to Hillsborough County Moms-to-Be on Public Assistance

The "14th Annual Day of Pampering" is Saturday, October 14 from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. at Ragan Park, 1200 East Lake Avenue, Tampa. Guests can register on Eventbrite at momstobe2023.eventbrite.com or text 813.431.1814. For more information, please contact Richedean Hills-Ackbar at caregiverstampa@gmail.com or via text/call (813) 431-1814.

By Deborah Bostock-Kelley

Sometimes, compassion's ripple effect can span a lifetime. In the 1990s, Richedean Hills-Ackbar, a single mother, experienced the kindness of receiving two baby showers during her time of need. This profound gesture of support inspired her to extend a helping hand to other mothers facing similar circumstances.

In 2009, the "Annual Day of Pampering for Moms-To-Be" was born. Now, after 14 years, Richedean and community volunteers have impacted the lives of countless expectant mothers through her nonprofit, Caregiver's Helping Hand, Inc.

On Saturday, October 14, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., the nonprofit hosts the "An nual Day of Pampering for Moms-To-Be" at Ragan Park. Made possible by sponsorship from Rebein Brothers Trail Lawyers, this community baby shower welcomes all Hillsborough County mothers-to-be on public assistance. The event extends its inclusivity to Dads-to-be, Grandmas-to-be, big-brothers-to-be, and big-sistersto-be.

With horrific stories in the news of infant abuse, Richedean provides invaluable resources to empower new mothers. Recognizing the challenges that can arise without a support network, she arranges for community speakers to provide guidance and preparation for the journey of parenthood.

Addressing the importance of safety, Richedean emphasizes the need to leave potentially harmful situations and advocates against leaving children with those who might pose a risk. Her mission is to grant young mothers a sense of self-sufficiency, as tasks that may seem simple to some—like budgeting—can prove challenging for those without experience. Financially strained mothers often lack the know-how to budget for essentials like diapers or formula.

Expectant mothers attending the event will enjoy complimentary food, engaging activities, and informative workshops. Richedean's goal is to of fer resources from various agencies and essential items that parents may require for their newborns.

Belly painters, prenatal massages, blankets from the Linus Project, and a custom-made diaper cake made with love by Richedean are some of the free services and gifts for moms-to-be.

"The shower will include resources to different agencies that support parents and items new parents may need like book bags for the Dads filled with items needed for an outing like diapers, wipes, blankets, bottles, and change of clothing," said Richedean. "We are trying to give moms-to-be a good start to parenting their newborns by showing kindness in their time of need. Someone once gave me. I'm just giving back."

Reflecting on the driving force behind her work and the most gratifying comment she's heard from her guests over the last fourteen years as an event and nonprofit founder, Richedean simply answered, "Thank you."

Caregiver's Helping Hand, Inc. accepts gently used and new items for newborns, babies, and toddlers.

Items needed include newborn diapers, baby bags, pacifiers, socks, blankets, hats, t-shirts, headbands, rattles, bottles, teething toys, strollers, mobiles, baby wipes, lotion, shampoo, powder, crib sheets, baby swings, baby monitors, and bottle warmers, etc.

Deborah Bostock-Kelley, founder of WriteOne Creative Services since 2005, excels as a graphic and web designer, PR copywriter, and playwright. A recipient of the Gobioff Foundation Grant, Tampa Bay Theatre Festival Denise Deneen Award, and Theatre Tampa Bay Jeff Norton Dream Grant, she's renowned for her socially impactful one-acts and full-length plays across Tampa Bay's stages. She's also a Marketing Director for Powerstories Theatre, a Broadway World theatre reviewer, and a journalist for several local magazines. Beyond her professional pursuits, Deborah champions charitable causes through her grassroots variety showcase, Life Amplified, raising awareness on issues like human trafficking, bullying, and LGBTQ rights. She is an invisible illness warrior who proves you don't have to be your diagnosis. www.thewriteonecs.com

Terri Hennessy 813.464.1172

Khaas Baat is a printed monthly newspaper that highlights events and festivities among the Indian American community in Florida. In addition to community news, Khaas Baat informs readers about topics including: health, money matters, immigration, movies, cars, books, astrology, fashion, and family matters along with other features and profiles.

Khaas Baat is the only publication in Florida with comprehensive coverage of community news and events, keeping you connected to your culture.

813-758-1786 http://www.khaasbaat.com editor@khaasbaat.com

Holiday Happenings In Historic Downtown Dade City

‘Tis often said that the Holiday Season is the most magical time of the year and Historic Downtown Dade City is certainly no exception!

Festivities get underway with the traditional “Dade City Unwraps for the Holidays” on Saturday, November 4th! Always on the first Saturday in November. But what exactly is the “Unwrap”?

Once upon a time, as all fun stories go, there was a group of very creative merchants sitting around the table pondering how to “kick off” the holiday season in their little town. Lots of ideas got batted around and then one bright merchant recalled a far away shop that used to wrap their shop windows (so that there was no peeking), and re-open a couple of days later with a grand flair to reveal their Christmas merchandise. It was said that folks came from all around to anxiously await the reveal of the treasures that had been collected and displayed with care – much like what Ole St. Nick would have done himself.

And there it was! The idea was born - with a few modifications that is. Some thought it was too much to be closed for several days, and some feared that they did not stock enough holiday

items to compete with the big box stores. And of course they wanted something that everyone in town could participate in whether they were selling food or merchandise. But they all said “we can wrap our windows and have lots of fun.”

“We can’t just make it about Christmas and forget about Thanksgiving!” So the group decided to do something that celebrates all of the seasonal holidays. They came up with different themes each year to give folks some “how to” holiday tips. One year the theme was all about helping customers entertain at home with decorating tips, wreath making, homemade doggy treats, crafty Christmas cards, and tasty recipes. Another year the focus was on entertainment – Christmas stories, presentations on the History of Christmas Wrapping Paper, Fancy Napkin folding classes, and other fun activities. This year promises to be the best ever!

Like little elves, the merry ole merchants will work long into the night on Friday, wrapping their windows and getting ready for the early morning festivities.

On Saturday morning, November 4th, the event kicks off at 9:30 am with a sidewalk reception in front of Florida Cracker Lunch on Limoges with complimentary orange juice and their fabulous freshly baked cinnamon rolls. From there the “unwrapping parade” will begin with an entourage of merchants and shoppers making their way from shop to shop to cheer as the proprietor rips the paper from their windows and declares the holiday season to be officially underway.

For the early birds – there are reusable holiday shopping bags available at participating shops filled with gifts and goodies for the first 10 shoppers who purchase $20 or more in merchandise. Refreshments will be plentiful with tons of small town holiday cheer!

Small Business Saturday will be celebrated on November 25th. The holiday festivities will continue with a special visit from Santa and Mrs. Clause. No season is complete without the kiddie and family photos (furry family members are welcome too) with the Clauses’. They will be on hand from 4 pm – 7:30 pm for free photos.

You will want to start your day early – at 10 am the shops open with an Ornament Giveaway (with a $25 purchase, as long as supplies last)! Plan to have a delicious lunch at one of our many unique restaurants and sandwich shops, stroll our beautiful shops and get ready for the Horse drawn sleigh rides from 4:30 pm to 7:30 pm. Spend some time sampling holiday sweets, artistic crafted chocolates, apple cider, hot chocolate and gourmet cupcakes. Help support the small businesses that make a town “your hometown”. Shops will remain open until 8 pm.

Be sure to visit the Dade City Merchants Facebook page for additional information and a list of this year’s special activities. Next month we will share with you our December plans for Historic Downtown Dade City. We hope you pay us a visit!

Join In Our FREE EVENTS

in

OUTDOOR PEP RALLY

Wing Eating Contest, Destroy a Car, Dunking Booth, Football Teams, Band & Cheerleaders

October 20th - 5-9PM

FRIDAY NIGHT LIGHTS CAR SHOW

Registration 4PM, AWards 7PM. Free Admission

October 28th - 5-9PM

HALLOWEEN HOWL

Haunted House, Tasty Treats, Vendors, Spooktacular

Games, Activities and Entertainment

WIZARD FEST 11AM-3PM

Food, Vendors, Scavenger Hunt, Raffles

November 4th - 10-3PM

HARVEST FESTIVAL

Christine’s

Beautiful Photography and Paintings by Christine Lonis-Pelz Stop By & Visit

October 14th: Paulie Palooza - Noon-9PM - Downtown Zephyrhills

November 4th: Walk of Art in Floral City - 11 AM-6 PM - Floral Park 9530 S. Parkside Ave, #9500, Floral City, FL

In The Spirit

By Gary S. Hatrick

Faith Is A Sure Thing

Faith is not a shot in the dark, it is a shot in the light. It is not a leap into the unknown, it is a leap into the promises of God.

We fundamental Christians are always delighted to say that we know Jesus as our personal Savior. We shout a hearty "Amen" to the assertion that Jesus dwells in us and that we are the temple of the Holy Spirit. That we will never perish.

Christian? Do you really believe that?

I am not trying to call your salvation into doubt (although the Scriptures do tell us to examine ourselves to see if we are in the faith - II Cor. 13:5), but I am asking you, as I am asking myself; is our faith what it should be?

Jesus didn't just come to save us, He came to change us. He didn't just come for the next life. He came to impact this life through faith.

Faith in Jesus for salvation is one thing and it is not as though we mustered that up, it is the gift of God (Ephesians 2:8,9). Having been enlightened, however, we were glad to embrace Christ. Why not? Our sins are forgiven, we are bound for Heaven. We have a blessed hope, we are part of God's family. We have a Great Shepherd to walk us through the valley of the shadow of death. We will never perish. What is not to like?

Having believed and trusted in Jesus, having faith in life after death is comforting.

It is having faith for living life until death that is hard. We are expected to live in a very different way than the rest of the world.

We are expected to live as though it is better to give than to receive. (Acts 20:35)

We are expected to live being the servant of all. (Mark 9:35)

We are expected to live considering others to be more important than ourselves. (Phil. 2:3-11)

We are expected to live taking up our cross and following Christ. (Luke 9:23)

We are to live knowing we are the light of the world. (Matt. 5:14-16)

We are to live knowing we are the salt of the earth.( Matt. 5:13)

We are expected to live as a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation and a people set apart for God's own possession. (I Peter 2: 9-12)

We are expected to live by faith, not by sight. (II Cor. 5:6,7)

We are told that without faith it is impossible to please God. (Heb 11:6)

There is more. These are not just words. These are not just church platitudes. God's Word is not a series of suggestions through which you can pick and choose, or are applicable in some situations but not others.

Some say these things are not practical in a real world. Well, ...

It is a real world in which you sinned. It is a real world into which Christ came. It was a real cross on which He died, it was a real dead body laid in the tomb, it was a real living Godman who came back to life. It is the real Word of God that commands you to live by faith.

Faith is not a shot in the dark, it is a shot in the light. It is not a leap into the unknown, it is a leap into the promises of God. It is not moving ahead with your eyes closed, it is moving ahead with your eyes fixed on Jesus. Do we see the end of faith? No, we trust in the end without seeing it.

Christian? Do you really believe that? Then live it.

(If you have never put your faith and trust in Jesus Christ, this column was not for you, but your questions and comments are still welcome. [highroadzhills@aol.com, Facebook P.M. under my name.] If you don't know about Jesus - please, please contact me.)

awareness is a

Distinguishing Different Types Of Breast Cancer

The following can help breast cancer patients understand this crucial next step after diagnosis.

Individuals can experience a whirlwind of emotion upon being diagnosed with cancer. No one ever expects to receive such a diagnosis, so the moment a physician delivers such news can be emotional and compromise a person's ability to focus. Once those emotions settle down and individuals resolve to overcome the disease, they typically have a lot of questions.

One of the questions doctors will attempt to answer is which subtype of cancer a person has. For example, when doctors initially deliver a breast cancer diagnosis, they may explain that further testing will be necessary to determine precisely which type of breast cancer an individual has. Identifying the subtype of breast cancer helps doctors choose the most effective course of treatment, but it's understandable if patients and their families become confused during the process. The following rundown can help breast cancer patients understand this crucial next step after diagnosis.

HOW IS BREAST CANCER TYPE DETERMINED?

The American Cancer Society notes that breast cancer type is determined by the specific cells in the breast that become cancer. The Mayo Clinic reports that a medical team will use a tissue sample from a patient's breast biopsy or, for patients who have already undergone surgery, the tumor to identify the cancer type.

TYPES OF BREAST CANCER I MIGHT BE DIAGNOSED WITH?

There are many types of breast cancer, but some are more common than others. Invasive and non-invasive (also referred to as "carcinoma in situ") are the two main subtypes of breast cancer.

According to the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, the most common types of invasive breast cancer are invasive ductal carcinoma, which affects the inner lining of the milk ducts, and invasive lobular carcinoma, which originates from the glands that produce milk.

The UPMC reports that the most common in situ types are ductal carcinoma in situ, which is cancer that remains within the milk ducts, and lobular carcinoma in situ, which does not often develop into breast cancer though it is considered a risk factor for an invasive form of the disease.

The ACS notes that triple-negative breast cancer is an aggressive form of breast cancer that accounts for roughly 15 percent of all breast cancers. Triple-negative breast cancer can be difficult to treat.

Less common types of breast cancer, each of which account for between 1 and 3 percent of diagnoses in a given year, include Paget disease of the breast, angiosarcoma and phyllodes tumor.

A breast cancer diagnosis marks the beginning of a sometimes lengthy but often successful journey that has ended in full recovery for millions of women across the globe. More information about the various types of breast cancer can be found at cancer.org.

What To Know About Breast Lumps

One of the more notable symptoms of breast cancer is the presence of a lump in the breast.

Breast cancer is a cause for concern for millions of women. Each year about 264,000 cases of breast cancer are diagnosed in women in the United States, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The Canadian Cancer Society indicates around 28,600 Canadian women will be diagnosed with breast cancer this year. Globally, data from the World Health Organization indicates roughly 2.3 million women were diagnosed with breast cancer in 2020.

One of the more notable symptoms of breast cancer is the presence of a lump in the breast. Though not all lumps are malignant, itÕs important that women learn about breast anatomy and lumps as part of their preventive health care routines.

Mount Sinai says that breast lumps can occur at any age in both men and women. Hormonal changes can cause breast enlargement and lumps during puberty, and boys and girls may even be born with lumps from the estrogen received from their mothers.

It is important to note that the vast majority of breast lumps are benign. The National Institutes of Health says 60 to 80 percent of all breast lumps are non-cancerous. The most common causes of breast lumps are fibroadenomas and fibrocystic changes. Fibroademomas are small, smooth, moveable, painless round lumps that usually affect women who are at an age to have children, indicates the Merck Manual. They are non-cancerous and feel rubbery.

Fibrocystic changes are painful, lumpy breasts. This benign condition does not increase a woman's risk for breast cancer. Symptoms often are worse right before one's menstrual period, and then improve after the period begins.

Additional factors can contribute to the formation of lumps. Breast cysts are fluid-filled sacs that likely go away on their own or may be aspirated to relieve pain. Complex cysts may need to be removed surgically. Sometimes cysts also may form in milk ducts throughout the breasts.

Lumps also may be the result of injury. Blood can collect under the skin and form a type of lump called a hematoma. Other lumps may be traced to lipomas, which is a collection of fatty tissue or breast abscesses, which typically occur if a person is breastfeeding or has recently given birth.

Additional causes of lumps can be discussed with a doctor. Though the majority of lumps are not a cause for concern, it is important for people to regularly feel their breasts to check for abnormalities. Doctors may recommend annual mammograms to women age 40 and older. In its earliest stages, breast cancer may produce little to no visible symptoms, but a mammogram may be able to catch something early on.

beautiful thing

Approaching Work After A Breast Cancer Diagnosis

Women can consider these tips as they share news of their diagnosis with their employers.

A breast cancer diagnosis affects every facet of a woman's life. While women and their families must prioritize treatment, a host of additional variables, including work, also merit consideration after a breast cancer diagnosis. Work is an important part of life, so it's understandable if women are concerned about how a breast cancer diagnosis will affect their careers. With that in mind, women can consider these tips as they share news of their diagnosis with their employers.

and that can be done by taking a few simple steps to overcome any cognitive issues that may arise during treatment. Record Zoom calls so you can go back and view them, if necessary. Take copious notes during strategizing sessions. Begin using a planner so you can stay on top of deadlines. These simple measures are easy to employ and can ensure women don't miss a beat during treatment.

•Take time off, if necessary. Time off should always be a consideration during cancer treatment. Breastcancer.org notes that various programs can help women meet their financial obligations if they're no longer earning income. Some employers may pay full salaries during treatment and not count time off as vacation or personal time, while others may grant short-term disability benefits that can provide some income during extended time off. Explore all of your options with the human resources staff at your firm.

A breast cancer diagnosis may require women to alter their work habits and schedules. Even the simplest tweaks can have a profound impact and allow women to direct much of their energy and focus on their treatment.

•Prioritize your own comfort when speaking to an employer about your diagnosis. Breastcancer.org notes that a woman's comfort level is the most important factor when sharing news of a breast cancer diagnosis with an employer. Some women may want to inform only a few coworkers they're close with, while others may find it easier to let everyone know. There's no wrong or right way to share a diagnosis, so women should prioritize their own comfort when choosing which way to go. To ensure things go smoothly and your wishes are honored, consider first breaking the news to a supervisor in a private faceto-face meeting or Zoom call.

•Decide what you want to share. The Australia-based Cancer Council notes that individuals must decide what they want to share regarding their diagnosis. Women can speak to their physicians to determine how long they will continue working, if their ability to work full-time will be affected by treatment and the projected length of treatment. Answers to the these questions can help women decide how much to share with their employers. If treatment will be lengthy and require time off to recover, then sharing such information can help employers arrange to cover your responsibilities.

•Take additional measures to overcome side effects of treatment. Breastcancer.org notes that treatment can produce cognitive side effects such as memory loss or difficulty concentrating. Successful professionals will undoubtedly want to maintain the standard they have established for themselves,

Did You Know?

Breast cancer affects millions of women each year, but breast cancer also can be diagnosed in men.

Each year in the United States, about 2,400 cases of breast cancer are diagnosed in men, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Roughly 270 men will be diagnosed with breast cancer this year in Canada, according to the Canadian Cancer Society. Macmillan Cancer Support says men have a small amount of breast tissue behind their nipples, where breast cancer potentially can develop. Breast tissue in boys and girls is the same until puberty, when girls start to develop more. Signs of male breast cancer include a lump or swelling in the breast, redness or flaky skin in the breast, irritation or dimpling of the skin around the nipple, nipple discharge, or pulling in or pain of the nipple, states the CDC.

Water Filters Are Not Created Equal

By Rev. Jodi L. Suson-Calhoun | SUSON ESSENTIALS, UC MBA, Organizational Behavior, Human Behaviorist, Brain Health Professional Amen Clinics, Nutritionist, Essentials Oils, Corporate Wellness, Frequency Medicine, Talk Show Host Self-Cell Care, Medical Intuitive and Quantum Energy Healer

EMOTIONAL HEALING & OUR WATER SUPPLY

If you are feeling depressed, have anxiety, racing thoughts, panic attacks, pain, or know someone who is experiencing this, please keep reading and share as well.

It is important to stay connected to others but honestly, it can be hard when we are struggling to avoid all the toxins that complicate the heck out of our brain. These toxins are not obvious because they are hidden. It’s not like your tap water or bottled water has an ingredient label on it. If it did, you would think twice before showering or drinking it. We have a false sense of security because it does not dawn on us that our water supply could be contaminated. Yet our water is filled with toxins, and these interfere with our central nervous system and voids us of self-love, compassion, grace, balance and centeredness.

These low vibration emotions, are driven by our toxic lifestyle, starting with our water supply. The toxins stop us from processing information with ease and grace. We can’t think straight, we feel overwhelmed, and we have the power to change this easily. We have a divine right to pure water.

Our brain is made up of 70% water - the flow of life. In the United States, our water is contaminated from the exposure to fertilizers, pesticides, poor manufacturing processes, toxic cleaning supplies, and the medications that

your neighbor is taking. If you are not filtering your water, you are being medicated against your consent.

Evidence shows that exposure to environmental toxins can increase the risk of depression, suicide, ADD/ADHD, learning problems, memory problems, dementia, brain fog, autism, temper outbursts, and psychotic behavior.

Physically, symptoms will include autoimmune diseases, diabetes, cancer, fatigue, numbness, tingling, tremors, allergies, abdominal pain, diarrhea, smelly stools, bad breath, weight issues, skin rashes, sweats, and more.

WHAT’S IN FLORIDA’S WATER?

The contaminants that exceed the EWG.Org Guidelines in Polk County Florida include Chromium (hexavalent), Haloacetic acids (HAA5), Haloacetic acids (HAA9), Radium, combined (-226 & -228), Total trihalomethanes (TTHMs) and the potential effect is cancer for all of them.

In addition to this, other contaminants detected 1,4 Dioxane, Aluminum, which contributes to early onset dementia and Alzheimer’s, Barium, Chlorate, Chromium, Fluoride, which is a neurotoxin and is known to calcify your pineal gland, Manganese, over exposure can lead to symptoms of Parkinson’s, Molybdenum, consumed in high amounts can lead to symptoms of Gout and cause a copper deficiency, Strontium, at elevated concentrations can adversely affect bone development and mineralization and Vanadium, which in excess can produce gastrointestinal issues.

If you are not filtering your shower and tap water, your body is the filter, and the toxins are being stored in your fat cells and manifesting as disease. Time to make a change.

After being mis-diagnosed for nearly 2 decades and disabled for almost 4 years, Rev. Jodi learned the truth about our food and water supply and how it impacted her emotional health.

She now paves the way for others to transform their lives using plant and energy-based healing, including mindset, brain, emotional, spiritual and physical health. She provides people the freedom to be who they are on their own terms.

Rev. Jodi L. Suson-Calhoun

foryourhealth

For me, I was in Illinois, so I was exposed to twice as many toxins in the water. I ended up with Fibromyalgia, Small Fiber Neuropathy, depression, anxiety, panic attacks and emotional outbursts just to name a few. Since I now help others with their health. The first change I suggest is that they filter their tap and shower water to experience the fastest change in their health. And don’t be fooled by bottled water, on average, bottled water has 38 total contaminants and researchers found microplastic contamination in 93% of tested bottles from eleven brands.

FILTERS ARE NOT CREATED EQUAL

Water filters are not created equal. Reverse Osmosis takes everything out including the minerals which we all need for optimal brain function. In addition, if the electricity goes out, so does your filtered water.

Some filters are not transparent about what they do. Some remove only 3 or 4 toxins. One of the biggest hypes is the PH level. There is a big focus on alkaline water which is important. However, what they fail to mention is that when you remove the toxins, the water PH level naturally raises to an alkaline state. This does not need to cost you a fortune. The filters that I use are third party tested with clear reports of the 200+ toxins that they remove. I feel better, my skin looks amazing, I have great mental acuity and I live as toxic free as anyone can. Look for the “Rev. Jodi Approved Products” so you too can live a life of vitality, love, happiness and joy.

Rev. Jodi L. Suson-Calhoun is Available for Speaking

Engagements and Consulting On Toxic Free Living, Holistic Health, Mindset and Divine Guidance.

847-738-0242 Jodi@SusonEssentials.com

www.susonessentials.com

SOURCES:

https://www.foodpackagingforum.org/news/microplastics-in-bottled-water# https://www.ewg.org/consumer-guides/five-reasons-skip-bottled-water https://www.amenclinics.com/blog/10-scary-ways-toxins-poison-your-brain/

A Wellness Experience

The use of natural salt providing drug-free therapy for respiratory and skin ailments using salt’s natural antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties.

Helps relieves symptoms of:

Allergies • Asthma • COPD

Cold and Flu • Cough

Cystic Fibrosis • Dermatitis

Ear Infections • Sinusitis

$20 Session w/mention of this ad

2718 Windguard Cir Ste 102 Wesley Chapel, Florida 33544

www.saltroomwesleychapel.com info@saltroomwesleychapel.com

(813) 501-8578

foryourhealth

Save The Date: December 5th

Gulfside Hospice Charity Fashion Show Returns

The annual Candace Glewen Charity Fashion Show will be held this December to benefit Gulfside Hospice and help provide patient care and bereavement support for the community.

The Candace Glewen Charity Fashion Show will take place at Spartan Manor in New Port Richey on Dec 5. Hosted by guest emcee Deiah Riley from ABC Action News, the event will feature an exciting vendor expo, a delicious lunch, prizes and the latest fashions from Dillard’s at the Shops of Wiregrass modeled by local “celebrities” and community business partners.

Tables for the event are now on sale. Tables of eight can be reserved for $350 now through Oct. 31; prices increase to $400 per table on Nov. 1. Spots for vendors and sponsors are also available. The vendor fee is $75

when registered by Nov. 24. Sponsorships are available starting at $200 and include recognition at the event along with additional benefits.

The event started in 2017 and was renamed in 2021 to honor the legacy of long-time board member and friend of Gulfside Candace Glewen. For more information about this event visit www.GulfsideFashionShow.org and to view other upcoming fundraising events at Gulfside, visit www.Gulfside.org or call 800-561-4883.

About Gulfside Healthcare Services:

Gulfside Healthcare Services is a non-profit organization serving the community for more than 32 years. Its three lines of business include Gulfside Hospice, offering care for patients at end of life, Gulfside Palliative Care, providing treatment options for those with chronic illness, and Gulfside Home Health, helping patients stay independent through skilled nursing and rehab at home. For more information about Gulfside Healthcare Services, visit www.Gulfside.org or call 800-561-4883.

LIGHTHOUSE FOR THE VISUALLY IMPAIRED AND BLIND

8TH ANNUAL DINING IN THE DARK:

An Interactive Dining Experience!

V i s t h a n d s - o n s t a t i o n s w h e r e y o u s t e p i n t o t h e s h o e s o f a

L i g h t h o u s e c l i e n t a n d l e a r n b a s i c s k i l l s f o r i n d e p e n d e n c e , s u c h a s h o w t o u s e a w h i t e c a n e a n d e a t w h i l e w e a r i n g a b i n d f o l d A d e l i c i o u s d i n n e r s l e n t a u c t i o n a n d c h a n c e r a f f l e a r e a l s o p r o v i d e d D i n i n g i n t h e D a r k b e n e f i t s L i g h t h o u s e p r o g r a m s f o r p e o p l e o f a l a g e s w h o a r e v i s u a l l y i m p a i r e d a n d b l n d i n P a s c o , H e r n a n d o , a n d C i t r u s

Tea and Scones Presentation

Publish on a Budget [Self-Publishing 101]

Get your book in Print within a month

Presented by Faustine Judd

INVESTMENT

$27.00

Tea and Scones Included

Wednesday - October 11, 2023 at Angel Tea House - 2:00 p.m. – 3 p.m.

37847 Meridian Av. Dade City, FL 33525

Come to this Tea & Scones presentation showcasing “Publish on a Budget Presentation” and receive a detailed step by step action plan to get your book in print and in your hand within a month.

A general outline of information we will cover at this event:

• Copyright and Copyright registration

• ISBN codes – What, Where, When

• Parts of a book

• An outline of Steps you can take to get your book in print

Pre-Pay at Angel Tea Room to Reserve your seat OR Scan QR Code Questions? Text or call Faustine at 813-713-4372

moneytalk Get A FEMA Payout Without Flood Insurance

From the Desk of Steven Papola, Centurion Insurance and Financial Services www.policygenius.com

HOME REPAIRS: FEMA funds can be used to help cover the cost of home repairs, including floodwater removal and new flooring or drywall. Funds can also be used to pay for flood mitigation measures, including hurricane-grade roof shingles, elevation of furnaces and water heaters above ground, and elevation or relocation of electrical panels.

TEMPORARY HOUSING: If your house is unlivable due to flood damage, FEMA can pay for temporary rentals or hotel stays until your home is repaired. These funds are typically available in one- to three-month increments for up to 18 months after a federally declared disaster.

OTHER NEEDS: Financial assistance is provided for all necessary expenses directly caused by the disaster, including medical expenses, meals, childcare costs, damage to essential vehicles, and moving and storage expenses.

WHAT TO DO IF YOU DON'T HAVE FLOOD INSURANCE

If your house has uninsured flood damage and it's located in a declared disaster area, there are a couple of government safety net programs that can provide financial relief.

FEMA DISASTER GRANTS: FEMA grant money can be used to repair or rebuild your house to its pre-disaster condition and other necessary expenses that aren't covered by insurance. While FEMA offers up to $36,000 for each eligible household, the average grant payment is around $5,000.

SBA DISASTER LOANS: If you need more financial assistance than FEMA provides, you can apply for a disaster loan with the Small Business Administration. The SBA can pay up to $200,000 to repair or replace your home, and up to $40,000 to replace your damaged belongings. Just keep in mind that it's a loan, so you'll eventually need to pay it back.

FEMA DISASTER GRANTS: If you live in a federally declared disaster area, you can apply for financial assistance through FEMA's Individuals and Households Program (IHP). These grants can help pay for everything.

HOW DOES FEMA DETERMINE PAYOUTS?

The limit for FEMA IHP grants is $36,000, and money can be used for the following:

In addition to providing relief for those who don't have flood insurance, the program can also provide additional funds to those with maxed out flood insurance coverage limits who need more money to pay for repairs. You're also eligible for IHP money if your home was flooded but the damage doesn't meet your policy deductible.

ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS

To receive FEMA disaster assistance, you need to be a resident of a federally recognized disaster area. After the president declares a major disaster, FEMA will then define the "disaster area," or the county or counties eligible for federal aid.

In addition to living in a disaster area, your home must be your primary residence, or the place you live most of the year. If the home is a seasonal residence or an investment property, you won't be eligible for FEMA payments.

Lastly, if you live in a special flood hazard area and you don't have flood insurance, you'll only be able to use FEMA disaster assistance once. After that, you'll need to purchase flood insurance to be eligible for future disaster aid.

SBA DISASTER LOANS

If FEMA grants aren't cutting it, you can apply for a low-interest disaster loan through the Small Business Administration.

HOW

DO

SBA DISASTER LOAN PAYMENTS WORK?

SBA disaster loan payments can help cover expenses that aren't covered by insurance or FEMA grants. Once approved, you can use the money for the following:

•Up to $200,000 to repair or rebuild your home. The damaged residence must be your primary home, not a seasonal home

•Up to $40,000 to replace damaged property, including clothes, furniture, vehicles, electronics, and appliances

•Up to $200,000 to refinance your mortgage. This option is only available if you can't get credit elsewhere and if you plan to make repairs using the disaster loan.

ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS

Like FEMA grants, SBA disaster loans are only available to residents of federally declared disaster areas who utilize the home as their primary residence. The loan can only be used to pay for damage to your primary residence and personal belongings. If you have a home office that you use for business purposes or to store business equipment, you'll need to take

Fortunately, there's at least some financial relief options for uninsured homeowners, as both FEMA and the Small Business Administration offer their own forms of aid in the wake of a natural disaster.

out a separate SBA business loan. If you're not eligible for credit elsewhere, the maximum interest rate on SBA disaster loans is 4%. If you can get credit elsewhere, the maximum interest rate is 8%. Loan repayment terms last up to 30 years.

PRIVATE FLOOD INSURANCE MAY OFFER A SHORTER WAITING PERIOD THAN THE NFIP

Flood insurance purchased through the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) has a waiting period of 30 days if the policy isn't tied to your mortgage. But this won't be of much help if you're purchasing flood insurance ahead of a potential storm, as the house won't be covered until after the waiting period (and storm) has passed.

Fortunately, private flood insurance is a more than adequate alternative to the NFIP, offering waiting periods of anywhere from 0 to 10 days, higher building and personal property coverage limits, more robust coverage, and it often costs less depending on where you live.

On the flip side, private flood insurance is written and managed by private insurers who aren't to the same degree as the NFIP. So if your house suffers extensive flooding, your insurer may be within their right to drop you from coverage after a claim. With NFIP flood insurance, you don't have to worry about losing your coverage.

But the bottom line is either form of coverage is a better alternative to relying on FEMA emergency funds, says Mark Friedlander, spokesman for the Insurance Information Institute.

"Relying on FEMA emergency funds is not a substitute for having adequate property insurance and flood insurance coverage," Friedlander says. "It is a very complex process to get approved for a FEMA grant and you typically only get a very small portion of funds to cover losses to your property."

moneytalk

When A Disability Throws Your Estate Plan Into Chaos

By Tina M. Spinks, MPA

Despite thoughtful effort and a concerted strategy, you cannot prepare for every emergency. A car accident, sudden illness, workplace injury or chronic medical condition can force you to re-evaluate the core assumptions you used to plan your future and set up your legacy.

As a result, you can take meaningful actions to protect your legacy and estate in the wake of your newfound limitations. Here are some insights to that end:

WORK WITH A QUALIFIED ESTATE PLANNING ATTORNEY TO ENSURE THAT:

•There’s an authorized person to make financial and healthcare decisions for you if you become mentally or physically unable to do so yourself.

•There’s also an authorized person to manage your property, pay your bills, file your taxes, and handle similar business if you’re unable to do these tasks.

•Your wishes about health care decisions, such as end of life care and do-not-resuscitate or do-not-intubate instructions, have been communicated in a legally valid and binding manner.

Get a recommendation from your estate planning attorney or your financial advisor, who can help you take additional actions, such as:

•Ensuring that you have appropriate insurance.

•Reassessing your investment options and portfolio in light of your new limitations and constraints on your ability to generate income.

•Making sure that you have a budget that works and that your bills will all get paid on time.

MIND THIS IMPORTANT DISTINCTION:

Be advised that “disability” for legal purposes is different than “disability” for financial planning purposes.

For example, disability for financial purposes might mean you can’t work gainfully anymore because of cancer or a workplace injury. On the other hand, “incapacity” in an estate planning context typically means that a person is no longer capable of making sound decisions, often due to systemic illness or injury.

In other words, you can be “disabled” for financial/insurance purposes and be non-disabled for legal purposes. However, almost anyone who is disabled for legal purposes would also be considered disabled for financial purposes.

Either way, it’s important to work together with your attorney and financial advisor to make sure you and your family are fully protected.

TAKE THESE ACTIONS ON YOUR OWN:

•Pay attention to where your money is going as well as to your long term planning strategy. Your estate planning attorney can help you assess whether your current plans are still realistic and, if not, what alternative options you have.

•Maintain a healthy lifestyle. For instance, cut down on added sugars and refined vegetable oils and be sure to eat enough vegetables, protein, and healthy fats.

•Get the help you need from trusted professionals. Now is the time to tap your friends and family and network for assistance with the heavy lifting. No single advisor will have all the answers. But your team can work in concert to reduce the anxiety and uncertainty and keep you focused on what really matters.

Please reach out to us to assess your long term plan and make sure you are secure in light of any new challenges. Give

As poet Robert Burns mused centuries ago, “The best-laid plans of mice and men often go awry.”

Tina Spinks

About Us

forthefoodie

Healthy Habits Reduce Risk Of Cancer Recurrence

A cancer diagnosis and subsequent treatments can challenge even the most mentally and physically strong individual. Once cancer is in remission, it may be difficult for some individuals to feel happy because the threat of cancer recurrence is looming in the back of their mind. Fear of recurrence can negatively affect quality of life and contributes to disabling anxiety in roughly 7 percent of patients, according to Cancer Therapy Advisor.

RECURRENT CANCER EXPLAINED

Recurrent cancer happens when cancer cells present in the body grow because they were not fully destroyed or removed during treatment. Sometimes cancer cells are simply too small to show up in follow-up tests, says the National Cancer Institute. These cells can then grow into tumors. Recurrent cancer should not be mistaken for second primary cancer, which is a new cancer that affects a person who has a history of the disease.

Recurrent cancer is categorized as local, regional or distant. Local recurrence is when the cancer occurs in the same place as the original cancer or very close by. Regional means the tumor has grown in the lymph nodes or in tissues near the first cancer. Distant recurrence happens when the cancer spreads elsewhere in the body.

RATES OF RECURRENCE

The rate of recurrence can vary widely depending on cancer type and other variables, including genetic factors, treatments and stage. Typically, cancers that are difficult to treat have high rates of recurrence. For example, glioblastoma recurs in nearly all patients. Ovarian cancer, soft tissue sarcomas and bladder cancer also have high recurrence rates.

CAN RECURRENCE RISK BE REDUCED?

There is no way to prevent cancer from coming back, says the American Cancer Society. Even if a patient does everything right there is still a chance for recurrence. However, the healthy habits that can reduce the risk for cancer developing initially also may lessen the risk for recurrence.

•Eat a variety of vividly colored vegetables each day, as well as legumes that are full of fiber.

•Consume nutritious foods rather than ones that provide little nutrition.

•Eat fruits in a variety of colors.

•Limit consumptions of red meat and processed meats.

•Avoid sugary foods and beverages.

•Engage in regular physical activity, aiming for 150 to 300 minutes per week of moderate-intensity exercise. Include strength training at least two days a week.

•Being overweight or obese is linked to cancer formation, so managing weight through healthy eating and exercise may help reduce risk of recurrence.

•Avoid excessive alcohol consumption or skip alcohol altogether.

•Cease usage of tobacco.

Recurrence of cancer is a very real risk and is on the minds of people who already have overcome the disease. There are ways to reduce the risk of recurrence, but there is no way to guarantee cancer won't return.

Women on the ROAD

Vroom

Gas-Sipper KIA Niro Goes The Distance ... And Some More!

NIRO (SX TOURING)

Tires: P225/45R18

Wheelbase: 107.1 inches

Length: 174 inches

Width: 71.8 inches

Height: 60.8 inches

Suspension: MacPherson strut front, multilink rear

Steering:motor-driven power assist

Weight: 3,336 pounds

Gas Only: 48 mpg

Combo electric/gas: 108MPGe

Base Price: $39,490

Price as tested: $41,635

Web site: www.kiausa.com

By Nitish S. Rele motoringtampabay@gmail.com

The second-generation Kia Niro is here and it can travel a much farther distance than before. Our PHEV (Plug-in hybrid electric vehicle) enables the five-passenger compact crossover to now go 33 miles (previously it was only 26) without using gas. The charge port, located in the driver’s side front fender, uses a 240-volt system that can take about three hours or a 120-volt consuming nine hours. You can effectively go well over 500 miles on a tank (9.7 gallons) with its gas, hybrid and plug-in electric features.

A 1.6-liter, 4-cylinder gasoline engine is mated to an electric motor, which is powered by an 11.1 kWh (previous was 8.9) lithium-ion polymer battery weighing 245 pounds. That is adequate enough to put out a total of 180 horsepower and 195 pounds-feet of torque while paired to a laudable 6-speed dual clutch transmission. The crossover offers a regenerative braking system for additional fuel savings. When the ride is coasting or the brakes are applied, the electric power functions as a generator, capturing kinetic energy that would normally be lost as heat through the brakes. Instead, it converts the energy into useable electricity for recharging the battery.

A boost in wheelbase, length and width opens up more cabin and cargo space, i.e., 22.8 cubic feet behind the second-row seat. The signature “tiger nose” grille meets up with LED headlights and fog lamps to create a

sleek and eye-striking appearance. Black door cladding and wheel arches are a standout also. Two 19.2-inch screens, one for the digital instrument cluster (cool LCD hybrid gauge showing charge, eco and power readings, as well as EV mode) and the other for infotainment, float to sync as one. Standard amenities include 10-way power heated/cooled driver and sixway manual passenger seats, leather steering wheel, dual auto a/c, power tilt/telescopic sun roof, aluminum pedals, 8-speaker Harman Kardon audio and push-button start. A rotary dial serves as the transmission shifter. The 60/40 rear seat folds down to open up 54.6 cubic feet of space.

Kia should be commended for offering several standard safety features, which are optional in competitor vehicles. Some are dual front and side airbags, side curtain airbag for both rows, driver knee airbag, rearview camera, lane keep/follow and forward-collision-avoid assists, blind spot and rear-cross traffic collision warnings, four-wheel antilock brakes, rollover sensor, electronic stability and traction control, smart cruise control and a tire pressure monitoring system.

It may not have loads of power (sport mode is offered) but the Niro is an outstanding gas/electric/plug-in hybrid effort from Kia. It is sharp-looking, sporty, practical and sips gas (we averaged over 50 mpg). That it comes with a 10-year or 100,000-mile power train and a five-year or 60,000mile basic warranty is a plus. Lest we forget, the lithium-ion battery is also covered for 10-year/100,000 miles.

for more test- drive reviews, visit www. motoringtampabay.com

pawsomepets Cancer Can Affect Pets!

Cancer can strike any person at any time. Cancer does not discriminate based on gender, age or nationality, nor are pets immune to this potentially deadly disease.

The American Veterinary Medical Association says approximately one in four dogs will, at some stage in their lives, develop neoplasia, which is the uncontrolled, abnormal growth of cells or tissues in the body. A neoplasm can be benign or malignant. Almost half of all dogs over the age of 10 will develop cancer. Dogs get cancer at roughly the same rate as humans. There is less information about the rate of cancer in cats.

Just like humans, pets can exhibit different signs that indicate cancer may be present, according to the Blue Buffalo Pet Cancer Awareness group. These include:

•Swollen lymph nodes: Lymph nodes are located throughout the body, and enlarged lymph nodes may indicate the presence of lymphoma.

•Enlarged or changing lump: Any lumps on the body that grow or change in shape or texture should be investigated.

•Distention in the abdomen: When the stomach becomes rapidly enlarged, this may indicate the presence of a mass or tumor in the abdomen.

•Weight loss: Chronic unexplained weight loss can be indicative of cancer or some other illness and should be taken seriously.

The Memory of a Much Loved

•Unexplained bleeding: Bleeding from any part of the body that was not traumatized should be addressed with the vet. Other potential signs of illness include oral odor, lameness, blood in urine, and a non-productive cough.

Pet owners should discuss possible treatment plans if their pets are diagnosed with cancer. According to PetCure Oncology, in the past a cancer diagnosis may have left pet owners with little hope. However, research is now ongoing and there are new treatments that can improve quality of life and reduce the number of treatment sessions. The company says stereotactic radiation, or SRS/SRT, is an advanced form of radiation therapy. Compared to traditional radiation therapy, SRS/SRT is delivered with extreme precision and may be used for some forms of cancer considered untreatable due to sensitive locations in the body. This may be one part of a cancer treatment plan for companion animals. Other cancers may be treated with surgery or medications. Pet owners can discuss their options with their veterinarians. Cancer treatment in pets, much like humans, is based on the type of cancer, how large tumors are and if the cancer has spread, advises AVMA.

With support and treatment, it may be possible to prolong the life of companion animals that have been diagnosed with cancer.

Cancer does not discriminate based on gender, age or nationality, nor are pets immune to this potentially deadly disease.

W omen

P. O. BOX 3088 • Zephyrhills, FL 33539 813.682.9364

www.floridawomenmagazine.com

A Toast to Empowerment

A Different Way of Networking For Women

www.PowerGalsNetworking.com

• Visibility

Visibility is the best way to grow your business.

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Share with other professionals what your business has to offer.

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Members may attend any of our monthly Social Events.

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We believe in Paying It Forward & giving back to our community.

• Member Perks

Members can benefit from discounts offered by local businesses.

• Business Directory

Business Directory is exclusively for registered members.

• Chapter Locations

Registered members have access to attend any Chapters at any location.

For Chapter locations and how to Become a Member please visit our website.

PowerGals is a women’s networking group that helps promote each other & generate new business. We are a true Sisterhood of empowering women that support each other. Real women making real connections.