Final 0917 fme 48pg

FORT MYERS EAST

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SEPTEMBER 2017

Think. Buy. Live Local.

Craig Komatz 30 YEARS IN THE MAKING

Signature cocktails, delicious food bites, sensational boutique shopping, and incredible auction packages, with lots of surprises in between, will all come together for one fabulous evening of friendship, fashion, and fundraising supporting Community Cooperative’s critical programming for women and children facing hunger and homelessness.

Thursday, October 5, 2017 • 6:00pm Sidney & Berne Davis Art Center 2301 First Street ∙ Fort Myers River District General Admission: $125 per person VIP tickets: $200 per person. Exclusive access to the FineMark VIP Lounge with private bar, buffet & desserts Girlfriends Package: 4 General Admission tickets $400

Reserve your tickets now:

Online at www.CommunityCooperative.com or Call 332-7687 x101

Be there. Be giving. Be fabulous!

livinglocalfl.com | SEPTEMBER 2017

Thomas A. Quigley, M.D. Board Certified Eye Surgeon & Cataract Specialist

Fort Myers

(239)466-2020 Bonita Springs

(239)992-5666 Cape Coral

(239)458-5800 Naples

(239)594-7636 Lehigh Acres

(239)368-3838

FREE EYE EXAM

Complete medical exam with one of our Board Certified Eye Doctors.

Includes prescription for eyeglasses and tests for cataracts, glaucoma and other eye diseases.

Offer applies to new patients 62 years and older Mention code CB00 when making appointment.

Coupon must be presented at time of visit. Offer applies to US citizens. Exp 10/14/17 LL.

Formerly Eye Health No Hidden Charges: It is our policy that the patient & any other person responsible for payment has the right to refuse to pay, cancel payment or be reimbursed for payment or any other service examination or treatment which is performed as a result of & within 72 hours of responding to the advertisement for the free, discounted fee or reduced fee service, exmination or treatment. 43110.

livinglocalfl.com | SEPTEMBER 2017

RECEIVE LIVING LOCAL IN YOUR MAILBOX

Subscribe online at www.LivingLocalFL.com

Inside

CRAIG KOMATZ CIBO

THIS EDITION KAREN WATSON

I-Topian Optical

DR. GREGORY SONN

Iona Health & Wellness

BRIAN LYNCH

DR. JOSEPH MAGNANT

Crowther Roofing

MARTIN YORK

PierSide Grille

Vein Specialists

JENNIFER PALMA

Edible Arrangements

MIKE WALTERS

Best Home Services

JOHN WELLER & DEBRA FRENKEL

Freedom Waters Foundation

CONNECT WITH US

livinglocalfl.com • 12565 New Brittany Blvd.

Unit #24 Fort Myers, FL 33907

TO ADVE RT IS E

239.245.7365 advertise@livinglocalfl.com

PUBLISHER

Audrey Brooks audrey@livinglocalfl.com

©2017 Brooks Infinity, Inc. - All content is property of the publisher and may not be used or reproduced without expressed written consent from Brooks Infinity, Inc. livinglocalfl.com | SEPTEMBER 2017

lunch special

BUY ONE GET ONE

FREE

239 466 3663 www.eatcru.com 13499 S Cleveland Ave Ste 241 In The Bell Tower Shops LUNCH SERVICE: Mon - Sat 11:30 - 2:00 DINNER SERVICE: Mon - Thurs 5:00 - 10:00 Fri & Sat 5:00 - 11:00

Buy one lunch entree at regular price and get the 2nd one FREE. With purchase of 2 beverages

Now offering Happy Hour in the dining room!

Max discount $10. Must present coupon. 20% gratuity added prior to discount. Not valid with other discounts/specials or on holidays.

Exp 10/14/17 LL

dinner special

BUY ONE GET ONE

FREE

Buy one dinner entree at regular price and get the 2nd one FREE. With purchase of 2 beverages Max discount $20. Must present coupon. 20% gratuity added prior to discount. Not valid with other discounts/specials or on holidays.

Exp 10/14/17 LL

rush to for the latest fashions & trends

20% FREE OFF one regular

PAIR OF EARRINGS

priced item

with $50 purchase

Cannot be combined with any other offers/discounts. Must present coupon.

Expires 10/14/17 LL.

Cannot be combined with any other offers/discounts. Must present coupon.

Expires 10/14/17 LL.

“high style with heart, no attitude or sticker shock.” located in the

239.454.0556

(next to Bath & Body Works)

+ fabrikfortmyers $ fabrikfortmyers

Bell Tower Shops

WO M E N’S D ES I G N E R FA S H I O N S , J E W E LRY, S H O ES & ACC ES SO R I ES livinglocalfl.com | SEPTEMBER 2017

I

’ve been waiting for this month all year. No, not because t he k id s are back in scho ol .

No, not because its fall and the temperatures should be dropping; we all know that’s not going to happen.

I’m excited because FOOTBALL has returned. I’m a diehard Patriots fan and I love that there are so many other New England fans in Southwest Florida to celebrate with.

Another wonderful thing about Southwest Florida is the amount of water we are surrounded by. It’s a source of recreation, relaxation and the per fec t reset but ton during times of stress and personal challenges.

In this month’s “For a Greater Cause” feature, we introduce you to Freedom Waters Foundation, a local non-profit organization that relies on volunteers and our area’s most precious resource—water—to improve the lives of veterans and special needs children.

It can be so easy to take for granted the beautiful area we call home. I encourage you to get outside this month and enjoy our natural resources. Get out and patronize local businesses in this traditionally slow month. Take some time to take care of YOU while you can. Spoil alert: the holiday season is just around the corner.

Thank you for Living Local.

Audrey

LOCAL CONTRIBUTORS

GINA BIRCH

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

J O E YA P E L L O

Joe is a 30-year marketing professional who has experience in various streams of media including radio, TV & print. He is passionate about helping local businesses grow through written content. livinglocalfl.com | SEPTEMBER 2017

FITTING Faces and Personalities AT I-TOPIAN

By Gina Birch

W

hen Karen Watson first chose I-Topian to take care of her vision needs, it was to support a business that supported her. As executive Director of Our Mother’s Home, Watson had partnered with the vision wear company for numerous events.

I-Topian is a generous supporter of Our Mother’s Home, providing glasses and more to the young women in the program.

When it came time to update her prescription Watson went to I-Topian and was impressed, saying, “Their glasses are totally different from anyone else, not the typical stuff you find at other places with no personality.”

I-Topian is known for paying attention to detail, custom designs and cutting edge technology. Watson says, “The quality of the glasses and the frames themselves… they look like me. It’s hard to find glasses to fit my face, my attire, AND my personality. I always find them here; they are just perfect.”

She also likes the personal touch provided by Kelly Chasnov, explaining, “Kelly guides you, shows you how glasses are suppose to fit, why they work or don’t work, then lets you choose for yourself.”

Watson, who is also running for Lee County School Board, has since purchased numerous glasses from I-Topian; for fun, fashion, and that professional look. She says, “I get so many compliments, but best of all, they help me see so clearly.”

Watson may’ve initially patronized I-Topian as a way of giving back, for all they’ve done for her organization, but now she’s a customer for life. n

$

100 OFF

PRESCRIPTION LENSES New or existing clients. One time use only. Must present offer. Exp 10/14/17 LL

ftg

itopian.com

• Use your FSA & HSA money • Authorized Out of Network Provider for most insurances

(239) 689-6551

15245 S. Tamiami Tr. • Suite #6

SHOPS AT JAMAICA BAY • FORT MYERS livinglocalfl.com | SEPTEMBER 2017

Cibo Restaurant Owner

Pinar Asal, Audra Carr & David “Peppy” Petrucelli

livinglocalfl.com | SEPTEMBER 2017

Mangi - Bevi - Ti Diverti

Craig Komatz

Dream fulfilled over 30 years in the making

O

By Joe Yapello

wning and running asuccessful restaurant is no small feat.

Just ask Craig Komatz and he’ll tell you what it was like as he worked his way up from the very bottom to eventually accomplishing his dream over 30 years in the making.

Born and raised in Oakmont Pennsylvania, a suburb outside of Pittsburgh, Craig’s story is one of sheer perseverance, a little luck, and an undeniable desire to succeed in an industry that can literally swallow up the most well intentioned restaurant owner.

“I started washing dishes at the famous Oakmont Country Club back when I was 16 years-old,” Komatz recalls. “I thought to myself, ‘I can do this’ and then maybe one day own my own restaurant.”

He would have to endure at least 30 more years of hard work in order to realize that dream. And that’s exactly what he did.

After graduating high school he attended Michigan State University where he earned a business degree in hotel and restaurant management. He went on to work in the country club industry where he worked his way up to a third-level assistant manager and then eventually becoming a general manager.

As the years went by, the country club industry was beginning to burn him out. But he held on to that dream that would eventually lead him to Fort Myers where a small successful Italian restaurant, tucked away in the Bridge Plaza on McGregor Blvd, was waiting.

“My parents retired in Fort Myers and with every trip I made to visit them we would go to Cibo,” Craig states. “It was one of my favorite places to eat.”

Komatz describes it as part luck, a lot of hard work, and a little divine intervention, as the recipe that went into the opportunity to purchase Cibo. His dream of owning his own restaurant was

livinglocalfl.com | SEPTEMBER 2017

finally fulfilled on May 25th of 2011, as he made the purchase with his entire life savings from successful Cibo owners Mark and Mary Pat Marotta.

“I will never forget the first meeting I had with our team,” Craig recalls. “We had eleven employees at the time and of course everyone was naturally nervous about the change, but I assured them we would go forward together and that’s exactly what we’ve done.”

Today, Cibo consists of 28 employees – with the majority of those in attendance at Craig’s initial ownership meeting still enthusiastically working at the restaurant. He made it a point to keep the most popular entrees on the menu with the quality of food and service that the faithful patrons over the years had come to expect.

Craig describes how purchasing Cibo still could have gone in two different directions. He understood that in order for him to make his mark on the restaurant he would have to be

livinglocalfl.com | SEPTEMBER 2017

patient and rely heavily on the established Cibo reputation, as well as the team already in place.

“I wanted to get the word out even more about Cibo so I invested heavily in marketing,” Craig explained. “I knew it would be my continued job to keep our faithful patrons happy and to get new customers in the door. Once I did that, I knew our amazing staff would keep them coming back.”

Craig is quick and proud to point out that much of his success over the years is due in no small part to the Cibo team. “We are one big happy family here at Cibo. No one job is more important than another,” Craig proudly states. “Our staff cares just as much about our success as I do and that’s a winning combination that can’t be beat!”

Craig is also proud of his location in the Bridge Plaza and wouldn’t change a thing about all of the restaurant competition located there. “I welcome all the competition, we’re all neighbors,” he said. “Each restaurant in

Dan Komatz, Craig Komatz & Patty McNall

“

No one job is more important than another

our plaza has its own little nuances but at the end of the day we’re all in the same boat.”

Craig Komatz looks at his past and into the future with a grateful heart.

“When you stop trying to improve you fall behind,” Craig says. “I work each year to make improvements on our current success. My wife and I feel truly blessed that we have such a wonderful life. All my children are grown now but hopefully the success we’ve created here will stay in our family...who knows, we’ll see.”

But for now and into the foreseeable future, Cibo is in great hands - and they’re not going anywhere!

Cibo offers an outstanding selection of appetizers, salads, entrees, wines,

Sean Deckter, Chef

and deserts to satisfy every taste. If you’re looking for an elegant Italian dinning experience look no further than Cibo located at the Bridge Plaza at 12901 McGregor Blvd in Fort Myers.

They’re open for dinner on Sundays thru Thursday 4-9pm and Friday and Saturday from 4-10pm. For more information please visit their website at www.cibofortmyers.com or call for reservations at 239-454-3700. n

12901 McGregor Blvd • 239.454.3700 www.cibofortmyers.com

livinglocalfl.com | SEPTEMBER 2017

e v a S the Date!

2nd Annual

Thurs., Oct. 26th 4-7pm located in the WOMEN’S DESIGNER FASHIONS SHOES • JEWELRY • ACCESSORIES

Bell Tower Shops

Come Shop & Enjoy:

Complimentary Champagne & Tapas Give-a-ways • Live DJ - Robert McDonald Specials on injectables by MedSpa 22 Botox $9/unit, Dysport $4.50/unit & Fillers $100 off

Proceeds for this year’s event will go to: a local non-profit organization helping to raise awareness about the importance of health screenings, early detection, and treatment of cancer & provide financial assistance to those in need locally.

g st d Be inin Voteront D04 erf e 20 Wat sinc

MLuIVsEic !

1/2 OFF

ENTREE

2500 Main St. Ft Myers Beach

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

Must present coupon. Not valid during holidays or with any other coupons, offers, or promotions. Exp 10/14/17 LL

239.463.3257 MyParrotKey.com

STORE HOURS: MON-SAT 9AM-5PM

5

$

Next OFFOFYour Purchase 25 OR MORE $

Kay’s Hallmark Shop 239.482.4030

Kay’s Hallmark Shop 11600 Gladiolus Dr. • Ft Myers Publix Shopping Center

239.482.4030

Valid only at retailer shown. Must present and surrender coupon at time of purchase in order to receive discount. Offer not valid on Hallmark (PRODUCT) REDTM, Hallmark Keepsake Ornaments, gift cards, sale merchandise, other products identified by your store, or on past purchases. This certificate cannot be combined with any other offers, coupons, or certificates. Limit one coupon per customer per visit. No cash value. Tax not included. Copies and facsimiles not accepted. © 2016 Hallmark Licensing, Inc. Expires 10/14/17 LL

POST OFICE HOURS MON - FRI 9-5 • SAT 9-2

livinglocalfl.com | SEPTEMBER 2017

BEST HOME SERVICES

Mike

s r e t l a W

RECOGNIZE

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 37 years, is pleased to recognize Mike Walters first year of dedicated service. Mike started as an HVAC Technician with Best in March of 2016. Today, Best Home Services employs nearly double the number of HVAC professionals as it did in 2016 and we got a chance to connect with Mike to hear why Best is truly, the best.

When we connected with Mike, he was at a customer’s home. That morning, the customer’s AC stopped cooling, which in the brutal summer heat spells bad news for any homeowner. Mike

FIRST YEAR OF DEDICATED SERVICE

went on to perform service with a smile, being sure to offer reassurance to his customer along the way. He truly cares about his customers and ensures they feel comfortable and confident that we will provide quality, hassle-free service. Like most HVAC technicians, Mike arrives to a customer who is hot and frustrated, needing relief from the sweltering Southwest Florida heat.

Mike’s goal is to ensure the customer’s system is up and cooling quickly with a quality repair. We are delighted to say that Mike consistently meets and exceeds his goal.

Mike is a prime example of the core values at Best Home Services: Be Family; Be Constantly Growing and Learning; Be Amazing; Be Fun. Mike

AIR CONDITIONING • ELECTRICAL • PLUMBING • DRAINS livinglocalfl.com | SEPTEMBER 2017

is passionate about his work and very knowledgeable about his craft.

We asked Mike to give us one word to define Best Home Services and he remarked “Home”. He went on to explain that he considered his coworkers a part of his family and that “. . . when you go to work surrounded by family, your job begins to feel like your second home”. Mike builds relationships with his customers and treats them like family by providing quality service and generating confident, reassuring atmosphere to help his customers feel at ease.

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 please visit their website at:

www.GetBest.com or call

(239) 217-1698

Mike is happily married to his wife, Sara, with whom he just celebrated his second anniversary! They are proud parents to a beautiful son, Carter, who is 13 months old. When he’s not at work, Mike is a dedicated family man, making memories with his wife and son. Mike also enjoys fishing and is ready for football season!

Best Home Services is a local, family owned and operated company that is focused on caring for their customers and t he communi t y. Their team relentlessly works to continuously

BEST HOME SERVICES

FAMILY OWNED AND OPERATED SINCE 1980!

livinglocalfl.com | SEPTEMBER 2017

Events

SWFL Critical Mass | Fridays Sep 1, 2017 - Feb 1, 2019 2160 MCGREGOR BLVD, FORT MYERS • 7p

Music Walk | Sep 15

DOWNTOWN FORT MYERS • 7p

Del Prado’s End of Summer Dance | Sep 16 2787 N. TAMIAMI TRAIL • 6:30p-8p

Six Wags Over Fort Myers | Sep 16

IONA-HOPE EPISCOPAL CHURCH, 9650 GL ADIOLUS DR • 10a-2p

Sunset Celebration At Times Square | September 22-23 TIMES SQUARE ON FORT MYERS BEACH • 5p-10p

Sanibel Farmer’s Market | Sundays

Fort Myers

S E P T E M BE R - O CTO B E R

CALENDAR OF

800 DUNLOP RD, SANIBEL • 8a-1p

River District Farmer’s Market | Thursdays CENTENNIAL PARK, FORT MYERS • 7a-1p

Twilight True History Tour | Thursdays RIVER DISTRIC T, 2200 FIRST ST • 6:30p - 8p

Island Hopper Songwriter Festival | Sep 22-Oct 1 THE BEACHES OF FORT MYERS & SANIBEL

Mystery Walk | Second Friday Oct - May RIVER DISTRIC T, 1ST & HENRY STREETS • 6p-8p

10th Annual Peace Day in the Park | Sep 24 JAYCEE PARK, 4215 SE 20TH PL, CAPE CORAL

•

10a-6p

Fort Myers Beach TAPA HOP | Sep 26 FORT MYERS BEACH • 4:30p - 9p

Artwalk | Oct 6 & 7

DOWNTOWN FORT MYERS • FRI 6p-10p & SAT 11a-4p

12th Annual Fort Myers Beach Pirate Festival | Oct 6-8

TIMES SQUARE & OLD SAN CARLOS BLVD. • FRI 6p-11p, SAT 10a-8p & SUN 10a-5p

Fall Bazaar | Oct 12

CHURCH OF THE CROSS, 13500 FRESHMAN L ANE, FORT MYERS • 9:30a-3p For more info on these events and others please visit our website at

LivingLocalFL .com

Brian Lynch Decades of Commitment to

Crowther Roofing

By Gina Birch

I

t’s rare in today’s business climate to find someone dedicated to one employer for more than 40 years, but it’s not impossible.

Brian Lynch, senior project estimator at Crowther Roofing has been with the local business for 41 years, longer than anyone who is not family. He says, “I started driving trucks, really the company gopher, in Chicago.”

A s the roof ing company began to expand its Southwest Florida operation, Lynch traveled between the two areas, moving here full time in 1980.

He says, “I felt very much at home here right away, it has a Midwest feel to it and I like that. People are always happy to put out a hand of friendship.”

Roofing is one of the most dangerous jobs in the country according to Lynch who says, “We take safety seriously.

We have more safety employed than just about anybody.”

Besides feeling like par t of the Crowther family, it’s also pride in their business ethic that has kept him loyal.

He explains, “We have never, not completed a job. It could happen for a lot of reasons, but it doesn’t happen here.”

While he spends most of his time in the office these days he remembers the days in 100 degree heat, on a Florida rooftop and says, “There are thirty guys on a roof and at the end of the day when you look at what you’ve accomplished together, actually built something, that’s a good feeling.”

|

www.Crowther.net Family Owned & Operated Since 1974

VISIT OUR 3500 SQ FT SHOWROOM OR CALL US FOR ALL YOUR ROOFING NEEDS

11791 Metro Parkway, Fort Myers

239-337-1300

Residential & Commercial License #CCC039822

livinglocalfl.com | SEPTEMBER 2017

Serving the finest European Style Cuisine

Lunch: Mon.-Fri. 10a-3p • Dinner: Mon.-Sat. 5-10p • Closed Sundays

FREE

12377 S. Cleveland Ave., Fort Myers (Villas Plaza) • 239.931.0050

Entree

Mon.-Thurs. 5pm-close. With purchase of 2 beverages. Max. discount $20.

Must present offer. Not valid with any other offers/discounts or specials.

18% gratuity added prior to discount. Exp 10/14/17 LL

www.latrattoriacafenapoli.com

FREE

NLOCAETIW ON 16475 San Carlos Blvd Fort Myers

SMALL CONE OR CUP

239.466.7707 Open Everyday 11am - 10p

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

WALTER’S Auto Service Center Same Management Since 1999

Buy one dinner entree at regular price and receive the second equal or lesser value free

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

Must present coupon. Exp 10/14/17 LL

15135 McGregor Blvd.

Ft Myers 1/2 Mile North of Gladiolus

437-0377

THE WORKS

1) Lube - Oil Change & Filter (up to 5 quarts of 5W20 Synthetic Blend)

2) Check Levels & Condition of ALL Fluids. Top off if needed.

3) Inspect Belts & Hoses

mv63720 livinglocalfl.com | SEPTEMBER 2017

4) Inspect Tires & Air Pressure 5) Rotate Tires 6) Inspect Thickness of Brake Pads PLUS DISPOSAL FEE. SHOP 7) Check Vehicle SUPPLIES & SALES TAX Charging System

$

all this for…

28.95

OFFER GOOD FOR “MOST” CARS, MINI-VANS & LIGHT TRUCKS UP TO 1/2 TON. With coupon. Not valid with any other offer. Expires 10/14/17

livinglocalfl.com | SEPTEMBER 2017

INTRODUCING IVUS: The new SUPERHERO of Vein Disease Treatment!

A

ttention anyone who has had a previous vein stripping, vein ablation or varicose vein removal, and has not received the desired results. This article is also addressed to those of you who have been suffering with swollen legs for months to years without a definitive diagnosis. There may have been trauma to the extremity or perhaps a joint replacement and you have been plagued with a swollen leg since then without a definitive diagnosis. Perhaps you have been to the emergency room for an ultrasound which was considered “normal”, meaning that there was no blood clot identified.

Perhaps you have had more than one “normal” ultrasound in the past 6 months and still are bothered by the thigh and leg swelling. I am writing this article for the group of patients out there who have been watching their lower leg skin discoloration progress over the last few years, and have been frustrated by the repeated suggestion

Examples of a compressed iliac vein and an open stented iliac vein

livinglocalfl.com | SEPTEMBER 2017

“not to worry about it and just wear compression hose” without being given any diagnosis. Some of you may have waited patiently for an answer, only to progress to the point of further skin thickening or eventual ulceration.

You may have been languishing in a wound care center, returning for weekly wraps or hyperbaric oxygen therapy sessions, without noticing any significant improvement in the appearance of your leg wound. It is for all of you I have written this article, with the sincere hope that this information will educate and benefit you by giving you the knowledge, hope and direction to seek appropriate attention and be further evaluated for treatable venous disease.

First, let me go back in time 17 years.

The year was 2000. I was practicing as an arterial vascular surgeon, in my 14th year out of my fellowship. The bulk of my practice focused on arterial disease, fixing abdominal aneurysms, cleaning out carotid arteries and saving legs from amputations. Vein treatments were very rare, primarily because the only treatment we had at the time was a somewhat barbaric procedure known as the vein stripping procedure. Thankfully, the endovenous closure procedure was introduced in 2000 and was a vast improvement over vein stripping. As is the case with new technology, endovenous closure

Dr. Joseph Magnant, Vascular Surgeon & Vein Expert

was initially met with a tepid response by most vascular surgeons. However, I adopted it into our practice and soon realized there were many patients with significant venous disease who had been largely ignored or expectantly observed, as I liked to say, because we previously lacked a reliable, scientifically directed, minimally invasive and well tolerated procedure to treat their abnormal veins. The introduction of endovenous ablation techniques resulted in a significant paradigm shift in our treatment approach for the care of patients with vein disease including not just those with varicose veins, but also patients with swollen achy legs, stasis dermatitis, venous ulceration and other less common presentations.

I left my position as an established vascular surgeon in Georgia in 2006 to move to Southwest Florida to open Vein Specialists and dedicate 100% of my attention to the modern evaluation and treatment of patients with venous insufficiency. Since then, I have continued to expand my knowledge and experience in the care of patients with venous disease. Through caring for thousands of patients over the last 11 years, I have developed an approach to help us in the decision making of which patients are most likely to benefit from our interventional efforts.

Fortunately, most of the patients we see in our practice have superficial vein disease, that is, weakness or leakiness

in the valves of the veins from the groin crease inferiorly. This group of patients often has very good clinical outcomes from the procedures we have offered.

Radiofrequency and Laser thermal endovenous ablation have served them well as has the newer chemical adhesive methods of sealing veins (VenaSeal).

Unfortunately, 10-15% of our patients may not realize as much relief from their signs or symptoms of venous insufficiency as either they or we would have hoped for or expected.

Additionally, 10% of our new patients may have had previous vein procedures such as vein stripping or endovenous vein closures when they present to our practice for second opinion.

Ultrasound evaluation of these patients often reveals only short segments of leaking veins which are not significant enough to account for their persistent or recurrent vein related symptoms or clinical signs. A potential cause of recurrent vein problems after previous procedures which has received much attention in the vein specialty world is iliac vein compression syndrome (IVCS).

IVCS may occur as the result of arterial compression of one of the main outflow (iliac) veins, leading to increased pelvic and lower extremity venous pressure.

This increased pressure can lead to failure of previous vein treatments such as vein stripping or the more current (continued on next page)

1510 Royal Palm Square Blvd., Suite 101 Fort Myers, FL 33919 3359 Woods Edge Cir., Suite 102 Bonita Springs, FL 34134

Both offices can be reached at (239) 694-8346. livinglocalfl.com | SEPTEMBER 2017

endovenous ablation techniques.

Since the iliac veins are deep in the pelvis, they are not easily examined with traditional techniques such as transcutaneous pelvic ultrasound, CT scan or Magnetic Resonance Imaging.

However, intravascular ultrasound (IVUS), a minimally invasive, catheter based ultrasound technique, allows direct examination of the more proximal pelvic veins from within the actual blood vessels. Precise identification of the presence, location and severity of iliac vein compression is possible with the use of IVUS as a diagnostic test. IVUS is an outpatient procedure performed under local anesthesia, through a small IV inserted under ultrasound guidance.

Based on the results of the IVUS, individualized plans of therapy can be established based on the severity of narrowing, and if appropriate, stenting of the compressed segments may be performed at a later date to restore normal pelvic venous outflow and return of blood from the legs.

Thi is analogous to removing the barriers to a closed interstate and restoring 4 lanes of traffic. Although placing stents in arteries has been performed for 30 years or more, and IVUS has been used in clinical practice on arteries for the last 10 years, the application of these two technologies, in concert, to evaluate and treat iliac vein compression syndrome and pelvic vein congestion is the most recent and important advance in the field of phlebology, or vein care. IVUS has changed our approach for treating our patients with either first time or recurrent venous insufficiency whose lower extremity venous insufficiency ultrasounds may not match their clinical severity. It is this group of patients who are most likely to benefit from further assessment with intravascular ultrasound and be possible candidates for iliac vein stent placement.

livinglocalfl.com | SEPTEMBER 2017

So for those of you I called attention to in the introduction, there may be hope for you yet! Although vein problems may fall into one of three broad categories: venous insufficiency (VI), deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and iliac vein compression syndrome (IVCS), we have been focused on the first 2 categories for many years and have just begun including IVCS and IVUS in our vein assessments and diagnostic evaluations. I have been encouraged with the results of IVUS and the accuracy of the information it has provided and predict that many patients who have not had the desired results from previous vein therapy will be helped as a result of this new application of IVUS and intravascular stent placement. If this article has resonated with how you have been feeling please consider further evaluation for possible iliac vein compression syndrome and see if you may be a candidate for IVUS. n Joseph G. Magnant, MD, FACS, RPVI, is a fellow of the American College of Surgeons and is board certified by the American Board of Surgery in vascular surgery. He earned his medical degree from Medical College of Virginia. He completed a general surgery residency at Medical College of Virginia Hospitals and a fellowship in vascular surgery at Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center, Lebanon, NH. Dr. Magnant of Vein Specialists focuses exclusively on vein evaluation and modern treatments in a dedicated, outpatient, vein-centered facility. Dr. Magnant is an active member of the American College of Phlebology, Society for Vascular Surgery and Society of Vascular Ultrasound.

Patrick A. Nero, MD, FACS, is a fellow of the American College of Surgeons and is board certified by the American Board of Surgery. Dr. Nero earned his Bachelor of Science degree in Pre-Medicine from the University of Dayton in Ohio and his medical degree summa cum laude from The Ohio State University College of Medicine. He completed a residency in general surgery through the Phoenix Integrated Surgical Residency program. Dr. Nero is a diplomate of the American Board of Surgery and a member of the American College of Phlebology and the Society for Vascular US. He joined Dr. Magnant and staff at Vein Specialists earlier in 2016. www.weknowveins.com www.eveinscreening.com (239) 694-8346

Certificate of Excellence Award Winner by

Mangi - Bevi - Ti Diverti

12901 McGregor Blvd Ft Myers

Dinner Only: Sunday - Thursday 4-9p • Friday & Saturday 4-10p

20% OFF

12901 McGregor Blvd • 239.454.3700

TOTAL CHECK

Sunday - Thursday ONLY Must present coupon. 18% gratuity added prior to discount.

Not valid with other offers.

Exp 10/14/17 LL

www.cibofortmyers.com Reservations Recommended

$19 SERVICE CALLS

Your Local Electric Experts!

NO GIMMICKS!

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AIR CONDITIONING

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239-204-2116 GETBEST.COM livinglocalfl.com | SEPTEMBER 2017

Herbal

F

Remedies Hit the Mainstream

lorida law regarding the use of medical marijuana officially changed this July, allowing residents with a host of ailments, broader access to the natural herb for treatment options.

Dr. Gregory Sonn, founder of Iona Health and Wellness, has been prescribing a non-euphoric strain of cannabis since it became legal in 2014, but the new laws open doors for him to help even more people.

Growing up in Fort Myers, Dr. Sonn specialized in palliative care for many years; his medical background is quite extensive. Today his holistic practice focuses on the overall health and wellness of a person.

The use of cannabis figures prominently in his treatments, in everything from topical creams, to capsules, oils, tinctures, and inhalation.

Whether treating patients who have nausea from chemo or suffer from anxiety Dr. Sonn says, “Things work more efficiently in your body when they are slow and steady.”

When the body is calm it decreases stress and pain that can eventually beat up your immune system, causing more sickness.

The physician starts slowly when prescribing cannabis, personalizing each treatment, something you wont find in most medical marijuana dispensaries, the majority of which have a corporate backing, not local.

It’s an important distinction and consideration…one that sets Dr. Sonn apart.

For people who think medial marijuana is just about getting high, think again.

Dr. Sonn explains, “It’s one of the only drugs in the world that mimics our neurochemical receptors.” Unlike many pharmaceuticals that affect the body in numerous ways he says cannabis, “just does one thing that works for all symptoms…it slows things down.”

Dr. Sonn may be reached at

239.689.6819

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

IONA Health & Wellness www.ionahealthandwellness.com

www.ionacannabisclinic.com

livinglocalfl.com | SEPTEMBER 2017

15550 McGregor Blvd • Suite 101

FT MYERS 226-4559 BONITA /ESTERO 949-4559 NAPLES 774-2455

20% OFF

CARPET CLEANING

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Limit one coupon per customer. Coupon cannot Expires 10/14/17 be combined with any offer or discount.

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UPHOLSTERY CLEANING Minimum Applies Limit one coupon per customer. Coupon cannot Expires 10/14/17 be combined with any offer or discount.

Chem-Dry’s proprietary HOT CARBONATING EXTRACTION (HCE) cleaning process provides a deeper, longer lasting clean for a HEALTHIER HOME

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livinglocalfl.com | SEPTEMBER 2017

A Farm to Table Experience.

500 OR $1000

$

8695 College Pkwy., Fort Myers

(located inside the Atrium next to the Post Office)

239.425.3480

mermaidgardencafe.com

Breakfast & Lunch Mon-Fri 9a-2:30p

off $25+

HaroldsW’

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w/purchase of one entrée of equal or greater value & two beverages COUPON UPON ARRIVAL & ORDER BY 5:30PM. Tamiami Trl • Ft Myers RESERVATIONS RECOMMENDED MUST PRESENT DIGITAL COUPONS OR COPIES NOT ACCEPTED. 20% GRATUITY ADDED BEFORE DISCOUNT. Not valid with other offers or discounts. Exp 10/14/17 LL Open Wed-Sat 5pm to Close

REGAL PLAZA

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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 10/14/17 LL

239.849.0622

LICENSED & INSURED

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livinglocalfl.com | SEPTEMBER 2017

INCLUDES PRE-TREATING & SPOT TREATMENT OR TILE & GROUT CLEANING (UP TO 350 SQ. FT.) MUST PRESENT COUPON. NOT VALID WITH OTHER OFFERS OR DISCOUNTS. EXP 10/14/17 LL

BAYFRONT B I S T R O

A unique waterfront dining experience OPEN FOR LUNCH AND DINNER

Happy Hour

FREE

(Bar Only) Upstairs: M-F 3p-6p • Sat-Sun 3p-6p• Downstairs: 3p-Close

buy one get one

4761 Estero Blvd, Fort Myers Beach

Buy one dinner entrée at reg menu price, get the second of equal or lesser value FREE.

Located directly behind Publix, Mid-Island

Valid for dinner only. Must be Seated by 6PM. Max Discount $25. Must purchase 2 drinks. MUST PRESENT COUPON. NOT VALID WITH OTHER OFFERS. NOT VALID ON HOLIDAYS. EXP 10/14/17 LL

239-463-FOOD (3663)

www.bayfrontbistro.com

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Monthly payments required. Expires 10/31/17.

MAINTENANCE

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∙ Local Family Owned 37 Years! ∙ 24 Hour Emergency Service AIR CONDITIONING

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239-204-2116 GETBEST.COM livinglocalfl.com | SEPTEMBER 2017

Do you have SEPT 7 - OCT 7

friends & family that want to receive Living Local in their mailbox?

SWFL’S PREMIER DINNER THEATRE

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14130 N. Cleveland Ave North Fort Myers 239-628-3349

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27801 S. Tamiami Trail Bonita Springs 239-628-3349

The #1 Manufacturer of Patio Furniture in Florida Since 1978

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Monday - Saturday 9-5, Closed on Sunday livinglocalfl.com | SEPTEMBER 2017

The Best of Florida is Here!

Fresh Citrus, Freshly Squeezed Juice,

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800-743-1480

SunHarvestCitrus.com Mon-Sat 8-7/Sun 10-6 14601 Six Mile Cypress Pkwy, Fort Myers Six Mile Cypress and Metro Parkway

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YOUR ENTIRE PURCHASE

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LL

Located Inside! livinglocalfl.com | SEPTEMBER 2017

LIVE

ENTERTAINMENT

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BUY ONE GET ONE

FREE

Buy one dinner item M,T,W,TH,SU (from our dinner menu ONLY) at reg price and receive the second, of equal or lesser value FREE! Valid 4p-close.

HOME OF THE FAMOUS

Max Discount $15. Must purchase 2 beverages. Must present coupon. Not valid with any other offers/ discounts NOT VALID FRIDAY, SATURDAY or HOLIDAYS FME Exp 10/14/17 LL

BLOWFISH BAR

1000 ESTERO BLVD. FT MYERS BEACH • 765-7800 Located next to the public pier in the times square area

PiersideGrill.com

K

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

500

• Real Estate

$

• Personal Injury • Wrongful Death • Foreclosures • Probate

OPEN 11 TO 11 • SEVEN DAYS!

Scott A. Kuhn

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239-333-4529

FLAT F E E*

Preparation of: Durable Power of Attorney, Living Will, Will, Health Care Surrogate, Preneed Guardian for Spouses & Partners.

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FREE

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Med

Spa

22

Dr. Ivan Cvik & Dr. Jelin Israel-Cvik Carrie Schuerfranz, RN Cosmetic Injectables Medical Skin Care Services n Laser Skin & Hair Removal Treatments n Bio-Identical Hormone Replacement n n

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Our bioTE pellets release all natural, bio-identical estrogen and/or testosterone and are metabolized consistently into the body as needed.

Are you experiencing these common symptoms?

Difficulty Sleeping Lack of Energy • Moodiness Anxiousness • Depression Inability to Lose Weight Weight Gain Reduced Libido/Performance

Dysport/40 units OR

Botox/20 units Med

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188

$

Free Bio-Identical Hormone Consultation

22

New clients only. Max. 20 units/Botox & 40 units/Dysport at discounted price. Not valid w/any other offer/discount. Exp. 10/14/17

13831 Metropolis Ave. Fort Myers (located inside Premier MD Care)

livinglocalfl.com | SEPTEMBER 2017

($199 value)

Dr. Ivan Cvik | Dr. Jelin Israel-Cvik Med

Spa

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239-500-SPAS (7727) www.medspa22.com

239.208.7300

BUY ONE GET ONE

1/2 OFF

AUTHENTIC ITALIAN FOOD Family Recipes • Fresh Quality Products

6631 Orion Dr. Ste 107 • Fort Myers

Buy one lunch special at regular price & get the 2nd, equal or lesser value 1/2 off with the purchase of 2 beverages

Corner of Daniels & Plantation

Valid Mon-Fri 11:30am-3pm.

www.trattoriamia.com

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

www.saigonparisbistro.com

Must present coupon. Not valid with any other offer or discount. Expires 10/14/17 LL

500 OR $1000

$

off $25+

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 10/14/17 LL

Mon-Fri 11a-9p • Sat & Sun 8:30a-9p

A U T H E N T I C T H A I & J A PA N E S E F O O D

Fresh

10 OFF

SUSHI

$

11940 Fairway Lakes Dr Ft Myers

Spend $50 or more and receive $10 off entire check.

239-561-6566

www.rocknsushigateway.com

$50 or more

Dine in only. Must present coupon. One coupon per table. Not valid with other discounts/offers/specials or happy hour. Expires 10/14/17 LL

livinglocalfl.com | SEPTEMBER 2017

10/14/17 LL

239-274-0922

12801 South Cleveland Ave

Near Intersection of College Pkwy & US41

239-652-5800

13061 North Cleveland Ave Next to Best Western Waterfront Hotel

TRY THIS HOME

French–Toasted Donuts at

Ft Myers • 12801 South Cleveland Ave North Ft Myers • 13061 North Cleveland Ave

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ENTIRE CHECK

Excluding tax and tip. Limit One Per Customer. Good only at Ft Myers IHOP. Must present coupon. Not valid with any other offer. Expires Expires10/31/17 8/12/17 LL FM Ft Myers • 12801 South Cleveland Ave North Ft Myers • 13061 North Cleveland Ave

$5 OFF

A CHECK

$25 OR MORE

Excluding tax and tip. Limit One Per Customer. Good only at Ft Myers IHOP. Must present coupon. Not valid with any other offer. Expires Expires10/31/17 8/12/17 LL FM

livinglocalfl.com | SEPTEMBER 2017

Professional Clinics FULL SERVICE HAIR SALON NOW AVAILABLE! FLORIDA ACADEMY #489-2282

10

$

OFF

Six Mile

Colonial

Winkler

Metro

ANY PROFESSIONAL CLINIC SERVICE OVER $30 All Practitioners are State Licensed Professionals MM12282/CE9969729

Must present coupon. One discount per client.

Not valid w/any other offers/discounts or nail services. Exp 10/14/17 LL

4387 Colonial Blvd. • Fort Myers • 489-2282

Ask About Nails!

Hours: M-F 9am-6pm Sat 9am-4pm

APPOINTMENTS SUGGESTED • WALK-INS WELCOME

LEE COUNT Y

239.275.8569 COLLIER COUNT Y www. DavidsonIrrigation.com

239.498.1900

Sprinkler Systems • Landscape Lighting • Water Conditioning 12-Point Sprinkler Inspection & Tune-Up

49

$

ONLY

Value $129

Repair parts and labor additional. Cannot be combined with any other offer. Limited time offer. Expires 10/14/17 LL

EASY AS...

Great Value Only $99.

Per scheduled maintenance.

Program total $297 (3 total visits)

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

The Davidson “ABC” Program Spring - Summer - Fall Scheduled Maintenance System Inspection, Check-Up & Tune-Up Daylight Savings Timer Clock Adjustments

10% DISCOUNT for Seniors • Veterans • First Responders (up to $100) livinglocalfl.com | SEPTEMBER 2017

BEACH

With More

O

ffering one of the best views on Fort Myers Beach, PierSide Grille and Famous Blowfish Bar has been serving locals and tourists alike for more than twenty years.

You can’t see PierSide from the road, or even the pedestrian friendly Times Square, but if you walk onto the pier, you can’t help but notice the beachside deck packed with people enjoying food, drink and entertainment Looking out at the water, managing partner Martin York laughs, “It is such a treat to come to work everyday.”

York moved to Sanibel Island in 1978 to help his parents manage a motel.

With a long history in condo, hotel and

restaurant management in Southwest Florida, his full attention is now on PierSide, a space he has owned since 1996.

Watching afternoon storm clouds roll in over lunch recently, York pulled out his phone, tilted his head and said, “It should get here in about 27 minutes (the storm), probably last for 15 to 20.”

He was right. Having a restaurant on the water, the majority of seating outside, puts him at the mercy of Mother Nature. Investing in high tech weather equipment helps him stay a step ahead in taking care of his patrons.

While he has many weather stories, those surrounding Hurricane

1000 ESTERO BLVD. #3 • FT MYERS BEACH • 765-7800 Located next to the public pier in the Times Square area livinglocalfl.com | SEPTEMBER 2017

DINING

Than View

By Gina Birch

Jessica Green Charlie are the most fascinating. York remembers, “It was devastating…The day of hurricane I walked over the bridge and I stood on pier, looked over here and cried.”

Framed pictures of the aftermath will leave you speechless. Especially when surveying the current space with its trendy shiplap walls and cool blue tones.

The menu at PierSide is tweaked annually but signature items like the Beach Bread will never go away; French bread loaded with mozzarella, blue and cheddar cheeses, green olives and a side of marinara sauce.

You’ll find lots of Gulf shrimp, grouper and seafood here; the ceviche is

OPEN 11 TO 11 • SEVEN DAYS!

Martin York

refreshing, light and plentiful. However, York says burgers are one of the most popular items. They are thick, juicy and come with everything from guacamole to blue cheese and cherry wood smoked bacon.

You can’t miss dessert…there is only one. The key lime pie here comes in an Oreo cookie crust and is made from scratch daily.

The beach gives PierSide great energy and views; York gives it life. He works non-stop on maintenance, menus and everything in between. When you visit Fort Myers Beach this summer, have lunch or dinner here, and look for York.

He is full of great stories and he loves what he does. n

PiersideGrill.com livinglocalfl.com | SEPTEMBER 2017

Tropical Pools Construction LLC

#CPC1456576

FREE 42" TV

NEW POOL CONSTRUCTION & MASTER RENOVATORS

• Over 40 years of pool building experience • Total Customer Care Satisfaction

or

GRIZZLY 75 COOLER

$29,990 POOL PACKAGE with screen enclosure

Includes 3 Ft. of paver deck with brick coping and colors of your choice.

Limited time only. Prices subject to change without notice Call for details Special pricing valid with coupon only. Not valid with any other offers or discounts. Expires 10/14/17 LL

with every pool!

FINANCING AVAILABLE

239-458-7770 livinglocalfl.com | SEPTEMBER 2017

www.tropicalpoolsconstruction.com

Dim Sum | BBQ AUTHENTIC CHINESE CUISINE

off

5 $ 10 off $

Traditional H.K. Style BBQ and Dim Sum

$30 OR MORE

OR

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

239-689-3113

$50 OR MORE

Must present coupon. Not valid with other offers.

Not valid Saturday or Sundays. Not valid on Weekends and Holidays. Expires 10/14/17 LL

www.GingerBistroUSA.com

SUNDAY FOOTBALL We’re Your Ticket!

DRAWINGS & GIVE-A-WAYS THROUGHOUT THE GAMES!

HAPPY HOUR

11AM-7PM

EVERY SUNDAY!

BLOODY WING PEEL-N-EAT MARY BAR

SHRIMP OR EVERY SUNDAY RAW 4.99 FOR 5 WINGS OYSTERS75¢ EA. MIMOSAS $2.95

SPECIAL $

13451 MCGREGOR BLVD Located at corner of McGregor and Cypress Lake Dr

239.791.8554 • www.stillwatergrille.com

239-481-ZOOM (9666)

$5 OFF

A WRISTBAND

17455 Summerlin Rd Must present coupon. One per person. Not valid with any other offers. Expires 10/14/17 LL Fort Myers www.zoomersamusementpark.com Unlimited rides, mini-golf and go carts.

livinglocalfl.com | SEPTEMBER 2017

The Helpful Place 16025 San Carlos Blvd Ft Myers • 239.466.7777

vin ’s

Gavin’s HARDWARE

Ga

l l i r G o t e m i T It’s

CREATE YOUR OWN SALE ITEM

5

$

OFF

Reg Priced Merchandise $25 or More

Must present coupon, Limit one coupon per visit. Not valid with any other offers or discounts. Expires 10/14/17 LL Ga vin

’s

16025 San Carlos Blvd Ft Myers • 239.466.7777

CREATE YOUR OWN SALE ITEM

FREE Assembly at ACE

Family Owned and Operated Since 1987

2

0

1

0

20TH ANNUAL

FRIENDLY NEIGHBORHOOD SERVICE 16025 San Carlos Blvd •Ft Myers •239.466.7777 www.shopatace.com

OFF Reg Priced Merchandise $50 or More

Must present coupon, Limit one coupon per visit. Not valid with any other offers or discounts. Expires 10/14/17 LL

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

Exp 10/14/17. LL

livinglocalfl.com | SEPTEMBER 2017

10

$

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

Exp 10/14/17. LL

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. 10/14/17

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. 10/14/17

47

95 ™

Highlights/Lowlights By a professional CHI Colorist Price will vary with length or condition of hair. May be combined with other offers. One person per coupon.

LOOKS GOOD ON YOU ™

$

LLE-5 Exp. 10/14/17

5 off

™

CHI Ionic Color

By a professional CHI Colorist Free Shampoo & Style

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-4295 Exp. 10/14/17

16"

1 Topping Pizza

$

42

95 ™

9377 Six Mile Cypress (239) 277-0600

1099

limit 2

Dine In or Take Out Only. Must present coupon. Not valid with any other offer. Limit one coupon per visit. Expires 10/14/17. LL

Are You

t!

Hungry Ye

Two 12"

2 Topping Pizza

$

9377 Six Mile Cypress (239) 277-0600

1799

limit 2

Dine In or Take Out Only. Must present coupon. Not valid with any other offer. Limit one coupon per visit. Expires 10/14/17. LL

9377 Six Mile Cypress (239) 277-0600

Gary Ciaramitaro,

Bellacino’s Godfather, Owner/Operator

ALL DAY SPECIAL

10% OFF

ENTIRE CHECK

Dine In or Take Out Only. Must present coupon. Not valid with any other offer. Limit one coupon per visit. Expires 10/14/17. LL

9377 Six Mile Cypress Pkwy.

Call 239-277-0600 or Fax 239-277-0605 livinglocalfl.com | SEPTEMBER 2017

Water Therapy

Co-Founder, John Weller & Founder, Debra Frenkel

W

ater…an element that provides healing, stress relief, spiritual renewal, inspiration and recreation. Even though we are surrounded by it in Southwest Florida, some of the people who could benefit from water the most, never get to.

Freedom Waters Foundation (FWF) was formed in 2006 by Debra Frenkel to help improve the lives of veterans, along with children & adults with life threatening illnesses/special needs and youth at risk.. The Southwest Florida organization uses a fleet of volunteers to teach sailing, take people fishing or on a simple boat ride.

Wilfredo Vasquez had just returned from his second tour in Iraq and was recovering from his third back surgery when he was introduced to FWF. He was suffering from posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and rarely left his house. livinglocalfl.com | SEPTEMBER 2017

Wilfredo Vasquez

A friend in his PTSD support group convinced Wilfredo to join him on an FWF trip aboard the Naples Princess.

The veteran remembers, “That day changed my life.”

He continues, “Just being on a boat and not hearing anything but water and being amongst other veterans opened my eyes to the fact that there is so much out there.” He has been volunteering for the organization every since.

The man who was nearly homebound at one point is now the vice president of the Collier County Veterans Council and volunteers for the VA crisis hotline…all thanks to that one boat ride with FWF. Janeanne Barone is a single mom of three, caring for her 12-year old daughter Jorja. Jorja is fighting Wilms,

for Veterans and Special Needs

Jorja Miller with Connie Nagele FWF Volunteer

By Gina Birch

a cancerous tumor that was first discovered in her lungs and liver in 2015…it’s come back A Florida native who is often stretched to her limits, Janeanne says, “When I get to escape and go on the water, there’s not a better feeling.”

And as for her daughter, she says, “I see a normal child for a moment; it’s one of the big things when you’re sick, wanting to be a normal child.”

She continues, “For that moment at least, there is a lot of positive going on for us.”

About the volunteers and the organization she says, “They see the beauty in everyone, accept you for who you are, and open their arms to treat you as a human and an equal. It’s a great feeling.”

Living Local believes strongly in giving back. We encourage you to donate your time, talents or treasures to local organizations like Freedom Waters Foundation or another non-profit of your choice. n 895 10th Street South, Suite 302-F Naples, Florida 34102 239-263-2377 FreedomWatersFoundation.org “For a Greater Cause” is a monthly initiative of Living Local, spotlighting a local non-profit that is making a difference in our community. Living Local also makes a monetary donation to the non-profit on the behalf of its advertising partners.

livinglocalfl.com | SEPTEMBER 2017

GET THE WRIGHT DEAL

livinglocalfl.com | SEPTEMBER 2017

2 ROOMS

1790

$

(UP TO 300 SQ FT)

$4.99

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Unlimited Quantity

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ME N IN-SHULO TATIO

3 ROOMS $

2390

(UP TO 400 SQ FT)

WHOLE HOUSE $

4792

(UP TO 400 SQ FT)

CON

2

0

1

1

THE NEWS-PRESS

21st

ANNUAL

Voted SWFL’s Best LAMINATE & HARDWOOD FLOORING

O F SO UT HW EST F L O R I D A FIRST PLACE

5 YEARS IN A ROW 2775 N AIRPORT RD • #102 • FORT MYERS

(239)872-3200 & (239)938-9999 WrightFlooringInc.com

DON’T GET AN

1 any reg $ OFF any giant 2 SUB $ OFF

OPEN FOR BREAKFAST 12377 S. Cleveland Ave #18 (SE Corner of US 41 & Crystal)

OR

Catering Available

VALID ONLY AT US 41/CRYSTAL DR. LOCATION

(239) 274-8877

SE Corner of US 41 & Crystal

Can not be combined with any other discount/offer. 1 coupon per person per visit. Must present coupon. Exp 10/14/17 LL

Hours: M-F 6:30am-9pm • Sat 7am-8pm • Sun 9am-8pm

SPIRITS • WINE • BEER • TOBACCO

FREE

4600 Summerlin Rd #A5 Publix Colonial Crossing Plaza

239-208-2926

SHOT BOTTLE MIXER WITH ANY $10 PURCHASE

Open 10am-10pm Everyday!

Must present coupon. Not valid with other offers or specials. one coupon per person.

Exp 10/14/17 LL

www.ColonialLiquorFTM.com

Come and R elax on our Beautiful Patio BUY ONE GET ONE

FREE

Lunch (max. discount $10) OR Dinner OPEN LUNCH & DINNER

(pasta, steak or seafood entree; max discount $15) Buy one at regular price & receive the 2nd equal or lesser value FREE with the purchase of 2 beverages.

MUST PRESENT COUPON IMMEDIATELY. NOT VALID ON LUNCH COMBOS OR HOLIDAYS. NOT VALID W/OTHER OFFERS/DISCOUNTS. Exp 10/14/17 FME - LL

Located at corner of McGregor and Cypress Lake Dr

13451 MCGREGOR BLVD

239.791.8554

www.stillwatergrille.com livinglocalfl.com | SEPTEMBER 2017

r u o Y g n i t a l u m i t S h t i W s e s Sen

By Gina Birch

edible to goâ„¢

livinglocalfl.com | SEPTEMBER 2017

T

his September Jennifer Palma steps up her game in the world of Edible Arrangements, with a coveted seat on the advisory board of this well-known, well-respected international franchise.

Palma moved to the area in 2003; her husband had a terminal illness and had always dreamed of retiring in the Sunshine State. She says, “We uprooted and retired prematurely.”

He died two years later.

Palma owns five Edible Arrangements in Naples, Bonita Springs, Fort Myers and North Fort Myers, including two walk-in storefront concepts.

An Edible Arrangement was sent to the family during the funeral proceedings in New Jersey. Palma remembers, “We’re sad and crying and this arrangement was delicious, it hit all of my senses.” Her brother took the hangtag from the fruit bouquet, gave it to her and said, “You always wanted to open a business.”

The business is known for it’s beautiful bouquets of fruit, meticulously cut to look like flowers. With an online focus on deliveries for any special occasion, Palma now has Edible To Go at all of her locations that includes; dipped fruit cones & fruit boxes, chocolate truffle sleeves, fruit salad, fruit parfaits & sundaes & dipped fruit pineapple pops. Palma explains, “It’s a local store and we get fruit daily. We make everything fresh to order and a by-product is that we have a lot of fruit, so now we use it in Edible To Go. We want people to stop by our stores to enjoy a REAL fresh fruit treat!”

Edible’s gourmet chocolate is made exclusively to compliment their fruit… so indulge!!! In her new North Naples store and Fort Myers location their Edible To Go also includes fresh fruit smoothies and frozen yogurt. “We have many customers that come in and order beautiful arrangements and gifts for others, so why not get a healthy treat on the go for themselves”, says Palma.

As great as online shopping is Palma states, “You don’t always know where it’s coming from or what it’s going to look like.” At her storefronts, you can see first hand and even sample the products. All arrangements are made in-house and personally delivered in refrigerated trucks.

In banking at the time, she slipped it into her purse and forgot about it.

But trying to take care of grieving children, medical bills and the general fallout from loosing her husband was like a second job, one she could not do while working at the bank.

She found that hangtag and the rest is history. Palma says, “Never in my wildest dreams did I think I would get into food business. My dad was in the restaurant business and it was not my thing. God has a funny sense of humor.”

When the entrepreneur opened her first store she personally made the intricate fruit designs saying, “It’s very therapeutic. You’re smelling it, it’s beautiful, it wakes up your senses, the fruit is good for you and it tastes good.”

Besides creating an artful, tasteful product, the business owner is inspired most by this: “We’re celebrating people’s special moments here; a birthday, a baby, a celebration of life. It’s a wonderful blessing and quite honestly, a privilege.”

FT. MYERS

BONITA SPRINGS

NEW NAPLES LOCATION

(239) 437-8480 N FT. MYERS

(239) 676-9911 NAPLES

(239) 643-7070

14261 S Tamiami Trl #16

15201 N Cleveland Ave

(239) 997-3784

26381 S Tamiami Tr. #100

1267 Airport Pulling Rd S

(239) 643-7070

2464 Vanderbilt Beach Rd. #502

w w w.e d i b l e.c o m

livinglocalfl.com | SEPTEMBER 2017

FORT MYERS • ESTERO • BONITA • NAPLES Brooks Infinity, Inc., Publisher • 239.245.7365

12565 New Brittany Blvd., #24 • Ft Myers, FL 33907

POSTMASTER: TIME SENSITIVE MATERIAL - PLEASE DELIVER SEP 14-16

Sunday

BRUNCH 11:00 -3:00

Join us for casual dining 1/2 OFF HAPPY HOUR DRINKS & APPS AT THE BAR ONLY 3P-7P

EARLY DINING SPECIAL

buy one get one

FREE

Buy one dinner entrée at reg menu price, get the second of equal or lesser value FREE.

BELL TOWER SHOPS

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

Rated “Excellent”

on Trip Advisor

VALID FOR DINNER ONLY. MUST BE SEATED BY 6PM. MAX DISCOUNT $25. MUST PURCHASE 2 DRINKS. MUST PRESENT COUPON. NOT VALID WITH OTHER OFFERS. NOT VALID ON HOLIDAYS. EXP 10/14/17 LL