Living Local Fort Myers East August 2018

FORT MYERS EAST

|

AUGUST 2018

Dr. Katrine Farag A DVA N C I N G D E NTI S TRY A N D I M P R OV I N G S M I L E S

Be Seen

in 2018

“I have definitely received my return on investment (ROI) from livinglocal®!!! The response is overwhelming and doesn’t compare to any advertising I have done in the past. livinglocal has increased my visibility in the community and I couldn’t be more excited about my continued partnership with them!”

26TH SEASON ON SALE NOW!

AUG 30 - SEP 29, 2018

OCT 4 - NOV 17, 2018

NOV 22 - DEC 25, 2018

DEC 29 - FEB 9, 2019

FEB 14 - MAR 30, 2019

APR 4 - MAY 12, 2019

MAY 16 - JUN 15, 2019

JUN 20 - AUG 10, 2019

Theresa Clements

Call

239.245.7365 to speak with one of our Branding Strategists today!

SWFL’S PREMIER DINNER THEATRE

BroadwayPalm.com • 239.278.4422 1380 Colonial Blvd, Ft Myers

livinglocalfl.com | AUGUST 2018

Robert Martinez, M.D.

ORTHOPEDIC SURGEON

More Options. Less Risk.

Peter Ameglio, M.D.

FOOT/ANKLE SURERY • SPORTS MEDICINE

Ronald D. Gardner, M.D. ORTHOPEDIC SURGEON

Foot • Ankle • Knee • Hip • Shoulder • Sports Medicine Osteoarthritis Care • Regenerative Medicine • Physical Therapy Imaging Services • Bone Densitometry & Osteoporosis @moreoptionslessrisk

Brad Castellano, DPM

FOOT AND ANKLE SPECIALTY

@gardnerortho239

3033 Winkler Avenue Ft Myers

Monday – Friday 8am – 5pm

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www.GardnerOrthopedics.com

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livinglocalfl.com | AUGUST 2018

From the

Publisher H

ow can it already be time to go back to school?

While some people had the summer off, the volunteers from Blessings in a Backpack have been busy bees.

For the first time ever, the non-profit extended its mission of feeding low-income children during the regular school year, to include summer school.

— Audrey & her son Timothy

This grassroots program is growing into a national organization, thanks in part to the success in Southwest Florida and the efforts of our local founder, Scott Fischer. I can’t think of better charity to feature in livinglocal for the back to school season.

Another organization that supports education and empowers young ladies is gearing up for its signature summer fund raising event—Love That Dress!, benefiting PACE Center for Girls in Lee and Collier Counties. livinglocal has been a media partner of this soirée for years. To celebrate the 10th Anniversary, a majority of the gently loved, donated dresses will be sold for only $10. Please check inside this month’s issue for the details of this feel-good shopping party.

It’s one that you don’t want to miss!!!

ART DIRECTOR

Teddy Tedford Teddy brings a wealth of branding, marketing and creative experience to livinglocal®. Throughout his design career he has worked with local SW Florida businesses and luxury brands across the state.

livinglocalfl.com | AUGUST 2018

Gracing our cover this month is Dr. Katrine Farag, owner of Advanced Dentistry of Fort Myers. Last month I had my first dental “emergency” ever, a chipped molar. A bit beside myself, I reached out to her office. Dr. Farag not only lived up to her reputation of professionalism and compassion, but also quality dentistry. Inside this month, not only do you get to find out what makes her tick, but she also gives great information to help you navigate through the options of cosmetic dentistry.

Thank you to our business partners and to you, our readers, for living local,

Audrey

LOCAL CONTRIBUTOR

Gina Birch Gina is a freelance writer for USA Today 10Best and a well-known TV & radio personality in SW Florida. Google her blog, “The Birch Beat” and follow her on Facebook & Twitter @GinaBirch.

side Inside this ed tion i

Dr. Katrine Farag

Natty Farley

Advanced Dentistry of Fort Myers

Best Home Services

Dr. Joseph Magnant

Joe Catalano

Dr. Nicole Alessi

Dr. Peter Ameglio

Vein Specialists

Collins Vision

ApothiCare360

Gardner Orthopedics

Laces of Love

Recipe of the Month Parrot Key

Our mission at livinglocal includes spotlighting local non-profits that are making a difference in our community. In addition to sharing their story, we also provide a monetary donation on behalf of our advertisers.

This month we feature Blessings in a Backpack, a local non-profit organization committed to feeding hungry school children. This organization sends children home from school with a backpack full of nutritionally balanced food - enough to feed them through the weekend. It is estimated that 60,000 children in Lee and Collier County qualify for help, and for the first time in its nine-year history, they made the decision to extend the program throughout the summer.

Learn about how Blessings in a Backpack is fighting hunger and how you can join in their mission!

S u b s c r i b e t o l i v i n g l o c a l a t www.LivingLocalFL.com

Serving Fort Myers, Estero, Bonita & Naples C O NNE CT W ITH U S

livinglocalfl.com

TO ADVE RT IS E

239.245.7365 advertise@livinglocalfl.com

PUBLISHER

Audrey Brooks audrey@livinglocalfl.com Š2018 Brooks Infinity, Inc. - All content is property of the publisher and may not be used or reproduced without livinglocalfl. com | AUGUST 2018 expressed written consent from Brooks Infinity, Inc.

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livinglocalfl.com | AUGUST 2018

livinglocalfl.com | AUGUST 2018

Getting The

by Gina Birch

Smile of Your Dreams

May Be Easier Than You Think

W

hen you look in the mirror do you wish your teeth, your smile looked better? Improving your smile may be a lot easier and take a lot less effort than you think according to Dr. Katrine Farag, owner of Advanced Dentistry of Fort Myers.

“Dentistry has advanced so much, you should have a smile you love,” says Dr. Farag. Many people don’t explore their cosmetic options out of fear, or because they think it will take years to achieve their goals. However, she says, “In many cases you can spruce up your smile with quick, painless procedures in as few as two appointments.”

Both Dr. Farag and her husband Joseph are dentists. The two met when she was a freshman at the University of Louisville and he was in the process of moving to the Port Charlotte area to open a practice.

Some 13-years later the couple has an 8-year-old son who is competitive in

go-cart racing and a 4-year-old daughter who has taken up figure skating.

Dr. Farag opened her Fort Myers practice two years ago, after a patient search for the right place. Over the years she worked in almost every kind of dental office you could imagine including the public heath arena, large group practices, small private practices, and corporate practices.

Those experiences provided a clear vision of the kind of dental practice she wanted. When Dr. Farag met a dentist in Fort Myers who was ready to retire, she hit gold. “He knew his patients, they were like part of the family. It was warm and friendly.” Just what she wanted.

Besides regular cleanings and general dentistry, one of the biggest reasons people come to Dr. Farag is for cosmetic consultations, ways to improve the appearance of their teeth and smile.

Often times they are shocked at how quick and easy it can be.

Continued on next page

livinglocalfl.com | AUGUST 2018

“Dentistry has advanced so much, you should have a smile you love.”

–Dr. Katrine Farag

For instance, if you like the shape and position of your teeth, the easiest thing to do is whitening. Within 24 hours Dr. Farag can have a custom f it ted t ray read y for you to take home and bleach teeth on your own schedule.

The next most popular way to fix your smile is through teeth straightening. “We used to think orthodontics was for teenagers but the average in our practice is 60 plus for Invisalign.”

Dr. Farag’s oldest patient is 84. She explains, “Even if you had braces as a child, your teeth still shift as you get older.”

But today you don’t have to suffer the discomfort and embarrassment of having traditional metal brackets and wires on your teeth. Invisalign uses a series of custom fitted clear trays. You wear each set for about two weeks, 23 hours a day. You may feel

some tightening the first few days but other than that, patients barely know they are there; neither do their friends and family.

Dr. Farag says, “They are very thin and you only take them out to eat a meal.” Laughing she continues, “It’s not meant as a diet plan but some people drop five pounds because they don’t want to take the trays out.”

Depending on the amount of correction needed, it’s possible to straighten your teeth in as little as nine months.

She smiles, “Braces are not just for teenagers anymore.”

Another quick, chair-side fix for chipped or fractured teeth is bonding.

Dr. Farag says, “We pick a shade that matches the tooth, using the same material that’s used for f illings.”

Leaving a chip untreated not only looks unsightly but it could lead to the degradation of your tooth.

Beautiful Smiles Begin Here! livinglocalfl.com | AUGUST 2018

About Dr.Farag Dr. Farag was born in London but grew up in Charlotte, North Carolina—she still says ya’ll. After graduating high school, she moved to Nashville, TN to complete her undergraduate studies in Neuroscience at Vanderbilt University.

Her DMD is from Nova Southeastern College of Dentistry. She takes a personal interest in each and every patient who comes into the office, and patient comfort is her foremost concern.

If chips and fractures are too big, the restoration moves to fabricated crowns and veneers. These procedures can also be used for crooked teeth says Dr. Farag, “If someone doesn’t want to go the orthodontic route, we can shape their teeth in a way to put crowns or veneers on them. They look like they’ve received immediate orthodontics.”

The process is very detailed with molds and digital mock ups to make sure everyone knows what the end result will be.

If you are missing a tooth, implants are one way to go. “It’s so minimally invasive compared to what it used to be like,” says the friendly doctor. She compares the digitally guided surgery to a quick and accurate hole punch saying, “There is no guesswork and a patient needing one implant can be out in less than one hour.”

Dentures are the other option for replacing missing teeth. Dr. Farag smiles, “Dentures don’t have to be ugly.

They don’t have to look like fake teeth anymore. Ours are really amazing.” She went to great lengths to find a lab that produces the best.

Changing your smile boosts confidence and self esteem no matter your age or gender. It’s important to find a dental practice that not only delivers but also feels good.

When you walk into Advanced Dentistry, it feels good: relaxed, inviting, friendly and non-judgmental. If you have been wanting to restore your smile but have been putting it off out of fear of time, expense, or discomfort, call Dr. Farag for a consultation and find out just how easy it could be.

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livinglocalfl.com | AUGUST 2018

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livinglocalfl.com | AUGUST 2018

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• 239-466-3131 • 941-764-9555

livinglocalfl.com | AUGUST 2018

BEST Home Services, Southwest

Florida’s leading home service company providing exceptional air conditioning, electrical, and plumbing services to residents from Naples to Bradenton for the last 38 years, is pleased to recognize customer service representative Natty Farley and her 1 year of service with the company.

Natty became a part of the Best Home Services family in June of 2017. Natty has seen and been a part of the rapid growth and development of Best Home Services in the Southwest Florida area.

She feels that the word “fun” is the best way to describe the company. “At Best Home Services, we’re always working together to make our work environment fun and productive.” Natty says that she feels apart of the Best Home Services family when she comes to work. “When I’m having a bad day, someone at work will cheer me up, that’s because we’re like family.”

We asked Natty, as a customer service representative, what advice does she have for her customers in Southwest Florida. “Trust that we will give you the best customer service experience.” Nat t y talked abou t how she deals with customers daily, and she stressed that it’s important to remain kind and welcoming to each customer. “It’s so important to be patient with customers because we don’t know what a customer is dealing with when they call us.” Being a people’s person, Natty is a firm believer in the golden rule that says treat others as you would yourself.

Working at Best Home Services has taught Natty how to be organized.

“I’ve learned that having structure is important, and having patience with customers is a must.” Being in customer service for over 10 years, Natty says that giving a customer a smile over the phone put s the customers at ease.

AIR CONDITIONING • ELECTRICAL • PLUMBING • DRAINS livinglocalfl.com | AUGUST 2018

BEST HOME SERVICES

y e l r a F Natty

IS PROUD TO RECOGNIZE

Nat t y is happily married to her husband, Todd Farley, with whom she celebrated her 1-year anniversary on May 25, 2018. Together they have an adopted dog name Simon that they dearly love. Natty has lived in Southwest Florida for 15 years. Natty is a dedicated employee and spends much of her time helping and serving customers at Best Home Services. When Natty is not working, she is spending time with her family or working on a new exercise routine.

Best Home Services is a local, family owned and operated company that is focused on caring for their customers and the community. Their team relentlessly works to continuously improve their service in order to make Southwest Florida homes safer, more comfortable, and more efficient-one job at a time! To learn more about Best Home Services’ story and their Best Home Services Guarantee, please call 239-217-1698.

CUSTOMER SERVICE TiP of the month “Treat everyone as you would yourself!”

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livinglocalfl.com | AUGUST 2018

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239.800.7172 • 12401 Commerce Lake Drive, Ft Myers (Gateway) livinglocalfl.com | AUGUST 2018

HITTING BACK PAIN Dr. Peter Ameglio, M.D.

P

inpointing where your lower back and hip pain is coming from can be quite a puzzle. If the pieces don’t line up, no matter what procedure you undergo, including surgery, you could likely still be hurting.

Solving the mystery is something that has become a mission of Dr. Peter Ameglio at Gardner Orthopedics. Dr. Ameglio is the primary hip surgeon for the respected practice and says, “When you have done all you can to treat the hip and you’ve reached the point of surgery, you want to make sure the procedure you are offering will actually resolve the pain.”

While that might seem logical, some people with seemingly successful hip replacement surgeries still experience pain, and Dr. Ameglio has resolved to find out why. livinglocalfl.com | AUGUST 2018

He discovered that the cause of pain in many patients was from sacroiliitis or inflammation the sacroiliac joint (SI).

It’s located where the lower spine and pelvis connect. Sacroiliitis is typically a condition treated by spinal surgeons rather than joint surgeons, such as Dr. Ameglio. It’s a diagnosis that can fall between the cracks.

Dr. Ameglio explains, “The SI joint can mimic symptoms of an arthritic hip.

I have seen patients who’ve had a hip replacement but still have symptoms of hip arthritis, even though the joint has been replaced.”

If a patient has hip and low back pain, and x-rays show arthritis, Dr. Ameglio will first inject the hip joint. If the patient is still in pain, he looks for other possible sources. That is how he landed on the SI joint.

@moreoptionslessrisk

@gardnerortho239

Below The Belt

By Gina Birch

“15-30% of people with low back pain have sacroiliitis,” says the surgeon. “It’s sizeable and it is critical to understand because of the overlap in symptoms.”

If you are having low back and hip pain and only have a little bit of arthritis, despite what you may have been told, surgery might not be the answer. Dr. Ameglio explains, “If the patient still has a great range of motion, but they are just in pain, they are a good candidate for an SI issue.”

The sacroiliac joint functions as a shock absorber, supporting the entire spine. It dissipates the shock to the sacrum and pelvis; however, as we get older it is less able to absorb shocks. It becomes stiff and less mobile.

Problems with the SI joint often result in pain in the pelvis, around the sacrum or lower back, buttocks, groin, lateral thigh, leg, and foot. Some patients have referred pain in other areas, making an SI diagnosis even more difficult.

Patients who have had back fusion but still have pain below the belt, could have an issue with the SI joint. SI could also be the culprit if you’ve had a hip replacement and your groin still hurts; your hip may not have been the problem after all. Dr. Ameglio says, “It’s not common but it happens.”

Joints in the hips and back directly affect each other and can cause overlapping symptoms. For instance if your hip is stiff, it puts strain on your low back and vice versa.

Surgery is not always the answer to joint pain. Dr. Ameglio and the entire team at Gardner Orthopedics view it as a last resort and in fact, have quite an arsenal of treatments to help keep you out of the operating room.

If you are having back pain below the belt, if you’ve had a hip replacement and are still in pain, if you’ve been told you have arthritis and need a hip replacement but still have great mobility, find the real source of your pain and treat it with the help of Dr. Ameglio and Gardner Orthopedics.

About Dr. Ameglio Born in Washington DC, Dr. Peter Ameglio grew up in Panama. After returning to the states, he completed his undergrad at the University of New Hampshire, and studied pre-med in Maryland where he worked at Johns Hopkins. Graduating from medical school at Albert Einstein in New York, he had successful practices in New Hampshire and Maine before relocating to Southwest Florida to be closer to family, including a twin sister in Miami.

Initially specializing in foot and ankle treatments, Dr. Ameglio moved up the leg to knees and hips. He calls it, “a natural progression to look at the entire lower extremity and how things function as a unit.” He estimates performing some 200 joint surgeries a year.

3033 Winkler Avenue • Ft Myers (239)277-7070

Dr. Ronald Gardner

www.GardnerOrthopedics.com livinglocalfl.com | AUGUST 2018

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BELL TOWER SHOPS

3499 S Cleveland Ave | Fort Myers (239) 466-4141 | www.Bistro41.com

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Savor Summer Savings NAMED ONE OF THE BEST 25 RESTAURANTS IN FORT MYERS!

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livinglocalfl.com | AUGUST 2018

“After Years T

he swelling and achiness in her legs started long before Lynn retired from her career in business development 11 years ago. Aside from gardening, Lynn’s hobbies, including reading and staying active with crafts, kept her sitting for long periods and she noticed her legs were always exhausted by the end of the day.

“I felt like I was carting around concrete blocks because my legs and my ankles would swell,” Lynn recalled.

She also experienced cramping, fatigue and trouble sleeping at night.

She reported that she did not have any visible varicose veins, so it did not occur to her that it might be a venous thing. She had other health issues so she kept thinking her symptoms were related to some of her other health issues.

After doing some research on the various causes of her symptoms, Lynn scheduled an appointment to have her venous system evaluated.

She underwent venous insufficiency ultrasound examination, and then sat down with her vein specialist to discuss the ultrasound findings and treatment options.

Joseph G. Magnant MD, FACS, RPVI Vascular Surgeon & Vein Expert

After 15 years, Lynn finally learned that a very real and potentially serious vein disease was the cause of her swollen and achy legs. More importantly, she learned that she didn’t have to live with it.

Veins are blood vessels that are specially designed to pump blood back toward the heart, against the force of

livinglocalfl.com | AUGUST 2018

of Suffering

with symptoms of vein disease, Lynn learned the truth and discovered a minimally invasive treatment to cure her symptoms!” gravity. Inside the veins are a series of one-way valves that open and close with the rhythm of muscle contractions.

Healthy valves close tightly, keeping blood moving upward toward the heart.

With vein disease or venous insufficiency, the valves do not close properly.

This allows blood to flow backward down the legs and pool in the veins. The pooled blood can lead to bothersome symptoms such as swollen, achy legs or leg cramping, and other signs of progressive venous disease such as varicose veins, and skin changes that can lead to bleeding veins and leg ulcers. These complications, Dr. Magnant emphasizes, are signals that vein disease is present.

Symptoms and signs of venous disease are numerous. Varicose and spider veins are the most common indicator of vein disease. They are the easiest to diagnose. But in the absence of spider or varicose veins and in the presence of other symptoms such as heaviness, achiness, nighttime leg cramps and nighttime urination, a physician should consider the possibility of underlying venous disease. If you have varicose veins, you most likely have venous insufficiency, but someone can have venous insufficiency without presenting varicose veins.

The investigation of venous disease with ultrasound is accurate and noninvasive that it makes sense to be proactive rather than waiting for the disease to progress or for the complications of the disease to develop.

Patients are simply unaware that a disease process is causing their symptoms and, further, that the disease can be treated. More often, patients tend to accept the way their legs feel and attribute the achiness, cramps, swelling, etc. to the normal result of aging, heredity or being on their feet all day.

For Lynn, the turning point was learning that the feelings she was experiencing were not normal and came from a treatable disease. She encourages others to examine their own situations and seek help if they recognize themselves in the symptoms.

“Do not overlook the fact that your ankles are swelling or your legs are swollen and you have dull, aching pain or cramping at night or interrupted sleep,” she suggests. “Do not push that off and say, It’s always been like that or I’ve always had that uncomfortable feeling.”

WeKnowVeins.com

Both offices can be reached at (239) 694-8346.

3359 Woods Edge Cir., Suite 102 Bonita Springs, FL 34134 1500 Royal Palm Square Blvd., Suite 105 Fort Myers, FL 33919 livinglocalfl.com | AUGUST 2018

A unique waterfront dining experience O P E N

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Appetizer - Salad - Entrée - Dessert

& one glass premium wine Valid for dinner only.

MUST PRESENT COUPON. NOT VALID WITH OTHER OFFERS. NOT VALID ON HOLIDAYS. EXP 8/31/18 LL

239-463-FOOD (3663) BayfrontBistro.C O M

FORT MYERS BEST DRY CLEANERS SINCE 1975

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Quality, Service & Selection

thats’a cut above

It all started in 1954 in Naples, Italy.

Today, the family business is still going strong.

Mario’s BBQ Package

2 lbs. Italian Sausage • 2 lbs. Chicken Drumsticks 2 lbs. Chicken Thighs • 4 Sirloin Sizzler Steaks 6 Sirloin Patties • 3 Slabs Baby Back Ribs 2 lbs. Jumbo Beef Hotdogs Valid thru August 31, 2018

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We are more than your Local Butcher!

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The finest choice beef, pork, veal & poultry Largest selection of Italian Specialities Quality home-style catering for any occasion Take-out Lunch & Dinner Options

12326 S Cleveland Ave, Fort Myers • (239)936-7275 • Open Mon-Sat 9A-6P MariosMeatMarket.com • livinglocalfl.com | AUGUST 2018

V

S Y To GOODBYE Dry Eyes

by Gina Birch

D

o your eyes burn, itch, or water excessi vel y? You may be suffering from dry eye. This is a condition that is more than just irritating; it can damage the eye if left untreated according to Dr. Nicole E. Alessi of Collins Vision.

“Dry eyes are a really big deal in Southwest Florida,” says the Florida native. She was born in Fort Lauderdale and was initially inspired to help people with their vision after watching her grandmother slowly loose hers.

But she’s extremely passionate about helping people with dr y eye because it’s a problem Dr. Alessi lived with for years. “I don’t want my patients to suffer like I was suffering.”

Her vision changed while she was attending optometry school at Nova Southeastern University. The doctor

says gratefully, “I was definitely in the right place when I had a problem. I was able to work with exceptional people and it stemmed my passion.”

Dry eye is a chronic disease process.

“Not addressing it will slowly deteriorate the surface of the eye,” explains Dr. Alessi.

“The top layer of the cornea will become irregular and distort the quality of vision.”

It occurs when there is a problem with the tear film, a multi layer structure that protects your eyes.

To help maintain the integrity of your tears, small glands secrete an oily substance. Those gland s c an b e come obstructed and in need of expression so they can work properly. But that is just one cause.

There is a not a one size fits all treatment for dry eye. Dr. Alessi does a comprehensive analysis that includes looking at a patient’s lifestyle and when

FORT MYERS OFFICE

6900 International Center Blvd. livinglocalfl.com | AUGUST 2018

NAPLES OFFICE 860 111th Avenue North

the symptoms tend to occur. She says, “The solution could be as easy as redirecting the vents in your car. If you are waking up with irritation it might be due to dust mites, so you would just need a humidifier.”

Small mites, or an overgrowth of bacteria, can also live along the lash line. In this case BlephEx is a common treatment, a procedure that could be described as an exfoliation of the eyelids and lashes using a micro-sponge.

Patients with this see an improvement in symptoms almost immediately.

Allergies are another dry eye culprit.

At Collins Vision Dr. Alessi is able to do a surface test on the forearm of a patient, exposing them to environmental allergens that specifically affect the eyes. Anti-inflammatory drops are often used to protect the surface of the eye so the doctor can then turn her attention to healing the tear film.

If you have cataracts or an interest in laser vision correction and have dry eye, treating the dry eye should be done prior to surgery. She explains, “We don’t want to do vision correcting procedures on an eye that is fluctuating.”

Dry eye can be exacerbated or induced

by Lasik surgery, but can also be managed after the fact. Dr. Alessi says, “If you have dry eye, Lasik may not be the best way to go. Here we do Advance Surface Ablation or ASA, and that will reduce the amount of dryness dramatically.”

“I had ASA with Dr. Collins,” says Alessi.

She wants to encourage and help people who are having discomfort due to dry eye.

“If you’ve been suffering for five years, I’m not going to be able to fix in five days, we have to do some work together but my goal is that you’re not uncomfortable, spending time thinking about your eyes all day.”

If you or someone you know is looking to find relief from dry eye, call Collins Vision today to schedule an appointment with Dr. Alessi.

239.936.4706

About Dr. Alessi Dr. Alessi received her Doctorate of Optometry at Nova Southeastern University where she completed her residency in Low Vision and Geriatrics.

Since then, she has completed extensive training and study in treating dry eye and was instrumental in establishing the Collins Vision Dry Eye Clinic. When not helping patients see better, she enjoys outdoor water sports and has two dogs that she describes as “my great joy.” She also loves to travel, most recently she visited the Netherlands in Belgium.

Dr. Michael J. Collins

Medical Director and Founder Board-Certified Ophthalmologist Fellowship-trained Cornea, Cataract & Refractive Specialist

CollinsVision.com

livinglocalfl.com | AUGUST 2018

AUTHENTIC

CHINESE CUISINE Traditional H.K. Style BBQ and Dim Sum

239-689-3113 4650 S. Cleveland Ave • Ft Myers (in the Burlington Coat Factory Plaza)

5 $ 10 off $

off

$30 OR MORE

OR

$50 OR MORE

Must present coupon. Not valid with other offers.

Not valid Saturday or Sundays. Not valid on Weekends and Holidays. Expires 8/31/18 LL

GingerBistroUSA.com

K

KUHN LAW FIRM, P.A. 6720 Winkler Rd • Ft Myers, FL 33919

500

$

• Real Estate • Personal Injury • Wrongful Death • Foreclosures • Probate

Scott A. Kuhn

• Estate Planning/Trusts • Guardianship • Business Litigation

239-333-4529

livinglocalfl.com | AUGUST 2018

FLAT F E E*

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MICRONUTRIENT TESTING

ARE YOU GETTING THE NUTRIENTS YOU NEED?

PHARMACY • COMPOUNDING • NATURAL MEDICINE Vitamin, mineral, and antioxidant deficiencies have been shown to suppress immune system function.

This can contribute to a variety of degenerative processes such as arthritis, cancer, cardiovascular disease & diabetes and more.

You may be micronutrient deficient and not even know.

Research shows that 50% of people taking multivitamins are nutritionally deficient despite supplementation.

ApothiCare360 works with Spectracell Laboratories to provide a test that is a more meaningful measure of nutrient status than all other nutrient testing. This patented test measures intracellular vitamins, minerals, antioxidant and amino/fatty acids status within your white blood cells and conveys how well nutrients are utilized at the cellular level. This innovative test is a more accurate indication of nutrient status than all other nutritional testing.

Come Meet Joe

your trusted neighborhood pharmacist, with 23+ years of experience.

For more information and/or to have a test, please stop by or call and speak to one of our pharmacists.

Competitive Pricing • Mail Delivery • Medicine Management

Vitamin IV Therapy • Micronutrient Testing • Cryotherapy Bio-Identical Horomone Replacement Therapy • Horomone Therapy for Men Please note: We do not diagnose or treat any disease and/or conditions and cannot prescribe medications.

This is based on recommendation only and is not a substitute for seeing your regular physician. We do not recommend or advise you starting or stopping any medications with out consultation and permission of your physician. If you have a medical condition it should be treated by your physician. Any recommendation provided by our pharmacists is not meant to be taken as medical advice.

6631 Orion Dr. Suite 112, Fort Myers (corner of Daniels Pkwy & Plantation Rd)

239.690.7700

Open: Mon-Fri 8:30a-5:30p

www.ApothiCare360.com livinglocalfl.com | AUGUST 2018

expires 08/31/18

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ANY CUSTOM CLOSET $2,000 OR MORE Can not be combined with any other discount. Must be presented at time of sale. Expires 7/30/18.

8/31/18 LL

custom closet | wall units | laundry areas | garages | home offices and more!

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livinglocalfl.com | AUGUST 2018

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livinglocalfl.com | AUGUST 2018

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Rose Thompson

LOCAL OWNER/OPERATOR

Hang Out With Us!

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12901 McGregor Blvd Fort Myers

(239) 337-7979 livinglocalfl.com | AUGUST 2018

$5 OFF WITH PURCHASE OF $25 OR MORE

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Not Valid W/ Any Other Offers/Discounts. Must Present Coupon.

Exp 08/31/18. LL

$6.50 PERSONAL PIZZA & SIDE SALAD

Valid Mon-Fri 11-4. Cheese or pepperoni pizza only. Must present this coupon. Not valid with any other offers. Exp 8/31/18

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YOUR HOME IMPROVEMENT

Headquarters

16025 San Carlos Blvd Ft Myers • 239.466.7777

Ga

vin

’s

Gavin’s

Purchase any entree at regular price & receive the second equal or lesser value 1/2 off.

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CREATE YOUR OWN SALE ITEM

5

$

OFF

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Ga

vin

’s

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CREATE YOUR OWN SALE ITEM

Friend ly Neighborhood Service F A M I LY O W N E D A N D O P E R AT E D

Since 1987

290 Nicholas Pkwy NW | Cape Coral | 239.945.6223 16025 San Carlos Blvd | Ft Myers | 239.466.7777

10 OFF

$

Reg Priced Merchandise $50 or More

Must present coupon, Limit one coupon per visit. Not valid with any other offers or discounts. Expires 8/31/18 LL

www.SHOPATACE.com livinglocalfl.com | AUGUST 2018

Celebrating 10 Years of the Community's Obsession with Fashion and Giving!

Love That Dress! 10 Wed, August 22, 2018 from 6pm-9pm

Embassy Suites by Hilton, Fort Myers-Estero

Gen. Admission: $30 VIP: $150 (Early Access at 5pm)

Already been seen in that dress?

Donate it!

For dress drop locations, tickets and more information, visit

LoveThatDress.org

Seminole Casino Hotel - St. Charles Yacht Club - Center for the Arts Bonita Springs - Gail Markham - Florida Marina Clubs & Melanson Law Alexandra Bremner - Anne Wittenborn - Deanna Hansen & Cheryl Komnick - LAMAR Billboards - House of Wu - Image Matters - NuImage Atilus, LLC - Jason's Deli - Naples Flatbread Kitchen & Bar - Prawnbroker Restaurant Group - Famous Dave's - Breaking Bread Co. - Signs Now Priority Payments of South Florida - Unfiltered Unfined Wines - A. Jaron Fine Jewelry - Lightening Wireless Solutions - Rachel Allen Love That Dress! is an event hosted by PACE Center for Girls, Inc., which is a Florida based 501 (c)3 non profit corporation registered with the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services to solicit contributions. Registration No. SC-00432. A Copy of the official registration and livinglocalfl. com | of Consumer AUGUST financial information may be obtained from the Division Services by 2018 calling toll-free within the state 1-800-435-7352. Registration does not imply endorsement, approval, or recommendation by the state.

Show

T his Summer!

Complimentary Seminar

Meet Dr. Magnant and his team of providers for an intimate Q&A session.

Limited seating. Light refreshments will be served.

Call 239-694-8346 & mention code VS11

Naples/Bonita Springs Wednesday, Aug 15 at 4:30PM th

Fort Myers

Thursday, Aug 2nd at 7:30AM Tuesday, Aug 28th at 4:30PM

• Offering the Latest Technology Available

VenaSeal™ & Intravascular Ultrasound (IVUS)

• Center of Excellence for Physician Training • 100% Dedicated to Veins!

ACCREDITED SW FLORIDA’S ONLY VEIN CENTER

Joseph G. Magnant MD, FACS, RPVI

WeKnowVeins.com 239.694.VEIN (8346) Fort Myers

1500 Royal Palm Square Blvd., Suite 105

Naples/Bonita Springs 3359 Woods Edge Cir., Suite 102

livinglocalfl.com | AUGUST 2018

P I N E B R O O K PA R K P L A Z A 12995 Cleveland Ave

(located next to Bell Tower Shops)

239.936.2233

500 OR $1000

$

off $25+

www.saigonparisbistro.com

NLOCAETIW ON 16475 San Carlos Blvd Fort Myers 239.466.7707 Open Everyday 11am - 10p

Jerry’s Plaza • 1700 Periwinkle Way 239.312.4356 • Open Everyday 10a - 9:30p

239-481-ZOOM (9666)

off $50+

With the purchase of 2 drinks, 18% Gratuity added prior to discount. Must present coupon. Not valid on Holidays or with any other offers/discounts. Exp 8/31/18 LL

Mon-Fri 11a-9p • Sat & Sun 8:30a-9p

FREE SMALL CONE OR CUP

FREE SMALL cone or cup with any purchase of equal or greater value. Not valid with any other offers/discounts.

Must present coupon. Exp 8/31/18 LL

5 OFF A WRISTBAND $

Unlimited rides, mini-golf and go carts.

17455 Summerlin Rd Must present coupon. One per person. Not valid with any other offers. Expires 8/31/18 LL Fort Myers www.zoomersamusementpark.com

livinglocalfl.com | AUGUST 2018

& Friday Night Adult Cruises Family Cruises D VOTE

T

BES

LY FAMIINMENT

RTA ENTE

t

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“We loved it! The crew was just awesome!”

2 5 0 0 MAIN STRE E T F T MYE RS B E ACH

239.765.7272

“My kids keep asking when we can go again!” ilable

Also Ava

Sam’s at Salty

5 OFF

$

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Experience Paradise E c o To urs Dolp h in Cruises Sun set Cruises

239.765.7272 2500 MAIN STREET • FORT MYERS BEACH • LAST LEFT BEFORE THE BRIDGE

livinglocalfl.com | AUGUST 2018

Summer

SAVINGS

UNLIMITED QUANTITY $

2 ROOMS

3 ROOMS WHOLE HOUSE

$ 2390 4792 1790 4.99 PER SQ. FOOT

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(239)872-3200 | (239)938-9999 2775 N AIRPORT RD • #102 FORT MYERS, FL 33907

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livinglocalfl.com | AUGUST 2018

Tropical Pools Construction LLC

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NEW POOL CONSTRUCTION & MASTER RENOVATORS

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livinglocalfl.com | AUGUST 2018

LEE COUNT Y

239.275.8569 COLLIER COUNT Y www. DavidsonIrrigation.com

239.498.1900

Sprinkler Systems • Landscape Lighting • Water Conditioning

NEIDA’S QU CK TIP A functioning rain sensor will save you from having a large water bill during rainy season and turf issues that are related to over watering.

12-Point Sprinkler Inspection & Tune-Up R E S I D E NTI A L & CO M M E R C I A L Proudly serving Lee & Collier Counties for over 27 Years!

LS#02-00159

49

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ONLY

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Repair parts and labor additional. Cannot be combined with any other offer. Limited time offer. Expires 08/31/18 LL

10% DISCOUNT for Seniors • Veterans • First Responders (up to $100)

GO GREEN WITH

Medical Marijuana Natural relief for a variety of disorders, including:

Chronic Pain • Anxiety Dr. Sonn Depression • PTSD

M AY B E R E A C H E D AT

239.689.6819 Call to schedule an appointment to determine if medical marijuana is a viable option for you.

15620 McGregor Blvd • Suite 100

livinglocalfl.com | AUGUST 2018

ionacannabisclinic.com

RECIPE of the month

Tangy BBQ SAUCE 2 5 1½ 2 2 ¼ 1 ½ ¾ 1 1 ¾ ¼ 2 5

yellow onions (sliced) crushed garlic cloves Tbsp. minced ginger (fresh) tsp Paprika tsp Salt/ Pepper mix C Honey Tbsp. Molasses C blended oil C Whiskey C apple cider vinegar 7lb-can of ketchup C Worcestershire C liquid smoke C Pepsi or Coke

(use as needed for consistency)

DIRECTIONS

• In a large pot, add blended oil.

• When hot, add yellow onions, garlic cloves, paprika, salt/pepper blend and minced ginger.

• Let cook until caramelized, then carefully add whiskey (CAUTION: FLAMABLE ) to deglaze the pan.

• Once whiskey has cooled down, add ketchup, apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire, liquid smoke, honey, molasses and Parrot Key Ye Olde Hot Sauce.

• Bring to a boil, then simmer for 15-20 minutes.

Transfer to a hot holding container and use a hand blender to break up all the caramelized ingredients ( NOTE: regular blenders will work as well ).

Tbsp. Parrot Key Ye Olde Hot Sauce • Finally, add Pepsi or Coke to reach the desired

(sold at Parrot Key Caribbean Grill)

consistency. Enjoy on ribs, chicken and pork!

livinglocalfl.com | AUGUST 2018

Expires 8/31/18 LL

livinglocalfl.com | AUGUST 2018

9377 Six Mile Cypress (239) 277-0600

16"

$

1 Topping Pizza

1199

limit 2

Dine In or Take Out Only. Must present coupon. Not valid with any other offer. Limit one coupon per visit. Expires 08/31/18. LL

Are You

t!

Hungry Ye

9377 Six Mile Cypress (239) 277-0600

Two 12"

$

2 Topping Pizza

1999 limit 2

Dine In or Take Out Only. Must present coupon. Not valid with any other offer. Limit one coupon per visit. Expires 08/31/18. LL

9377 Six Mile Cypress (239) 277-0600

Gary Ciaramitaro,

ALL DAY SPECIAL

ENTIRE CHECK

Bellacino’s Godfather, Owner/Operator

10% OFF

Dine In or Take Out Only. Must present coupon. Not valid with any other offer. Limit one coupon per visit. Expires 08/31/18. LL

9377 Six Mile Cypress Pkwy.

Call 239-277-0600 or Fax 239-277-0605

LLE-895

LLE-1395

Kids Cut

Adult Cut

$

8

95

$

11 & under

13

95

Shampoo & Lite Dry Specialty cuts, blow-dry style, set or curling iron extra. One person per coupon.

EXP. 8/31/18

Quick & Easy Perm Free Shampoo & Cut Price will vary with length or condition of hair. May be combined with other offers. One person per coupon.

$

LLE-4795 EXP. 8/31/18

47

95 ™

Highlights/Lowlights By a professional CHI Colorist

c i t s a t n a F e Al wa ys B Daniels Crossing • (239) 561-0221 6900-5 Daniels Pkwy • Publix center next to Subway • M-F 9-8 • Sat 9-5 • SUN 11-4

Price will vary with length or condition of hair. May be combined with other offers. One person per coupon.

$

LLE-5 EXP. 8/31/18

5

off ™

CHI Ionic Color

By a professional CHI Colorist Free Shampoo & Style Price will vary with length or condition of hair. May be combined with other offers. One person per coupon.

LLE-4295 EXP. 8/31/18

$

42

95 ™

livinglocalfl.com | AUGUST 2018

&

FEEDING

KI D S’ BODIES MINDS

F

By Gina Birch

or the first time in its nine-year Southwest Florida history, Blessings in a Backpack has extended its program to feed low-income school children through the summer.

While many people reading this story are coming back from or planning family staycations and vacations, a large percentage of local families aren’t trying to figure out which hotel gives them the best deal or location, they’re wondering where their next meal is coming from.

It’s a sad truth. There are children in our community who are hungry. During the school year, low-income students have access to free and reduced breakfast and lunch. Those meals are too often the only ones they receive. So what happens on the weekend?

Cecilia St. Arnold, Executive Director livinglocalfl.com | AUGUST 2018

That is where Blessings in a Backpack fills in the gap by sending students home with a backpack containing enough nutritional food to keep them fed through the weekend.

Cecilia St. Arnold, Executive Director of Blessings, says the figures are staggering, “Florida is number four in the nation in childhood hunger even though this is an agricultural state.”

Blessings in a Backpack started as a grassroots effort in Louisville where Scott Fischer and a group of his friends signed up for a golf tournament. Owner of Scott Fisher Enterprises, which includes Six Bends Harley Davidson, Fisher went for the fun, not realizing this fledgling charity was one of the beneficiaries.

The idea struck a cord, especially after discovering that 90% of students in title one schools in Lee County were on free and reduced lunches. He says, “I went to my buddies and said let’s put some money in and start the program.”

The work done in Southwest Florida has been instrumental in helping Blessings in a Backpack form a national organization.

As the program grew locally, it was evident that a fulltime administrator was needed, so Fischer brought in St. Arnold.

She didn’t know the hunger problem in local schools was so vast until her daughter became a teacher. Her first job was at Fort Myers Middle School where she kept a mini–frig full of healthful snacks to give students who were so hungry, they’d fall asleep in class.

“For A Greater Cause” is a monthly initiative of livinglocal, spotlighting a local nonprofit that is making a difference in our community. livinglocal also makes a monetary donation to the nonprofit on behalf of its advertising partners.

Scott Fischer, Founder

Besides sleeping in class, hungry kids are often late for school on Monday, and there’s a high absentee rate on Friday.

Since implementing Blessings, school administrators report those numbers have improved dramatically. Some students are actually excited to be at school on Friday because they know they’ll be leaving with more than homework.

Every student at Tice Elementary is on free and reduced lunch according to Assistant Principal Arlene Kane. Every one of them gets their own backpack of food on Friday. “It makes a huge difference for parents. It’s one less thing they have to worry about, and kids aren’t coming to school on Monday starving because the last substantial meal they ate was lunch on Friday.”

Kane sees students returning on Monday better behaved, focused, and able to concentrate on learning. “Think about how you are at work when you are starving; your focus, your attitude.

How much better do you work when your belly is full?” she asks. It’s the same for kids who are also still growing physically.

Continuing, the assistant principal says, “We are really thankful for Blessings as this is first year we’ve been able to run the program over the summer. Summer school only goes Monday through Thursday, so until now, students were

potentially going without food Friday, Saturday, and Sunday.”

When people ask Fischer why he invests so much time, effort, and money into Blessings he says, “It’s easy to say lets help hungry kids, but the reality is all of these kids are potentially our employees. As an entrepreneur, I have an obligation to support education and make sure children are taken care of.”

60,000 children in Lee and Collier Counties qualify for help according to St. Arnold, but this year Blessings will only reach about 4,000; the need is tremendous.

It doesn’t take much to help. Fischer says, “We know not everyone can spend thousands, but it only takes $100 to feed a kid all year. $100! We need $100 donors.”

If you can be that next $100 donor, or even help fill the backpacks, call (239) 410-9592 or visit their website at BlessingsInSWFL.org.

Donations are tax deductible and may be mailed directly to: Blessings in a Backpack P.O. Box 61402 Fort Myers, FL 33906

livinglocalfl.com | AUGUST 2018

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