For centuries, people have been using ice and cold-water baths for health and stimulation. These days, this type of therapy has caught up with modern science. Now called “cryotherapy,” this type of stimulation uses modern technology.**

Local cryotherapy is a cryostimulation treatment that increases blood flow to injured or sore muscles and joints. Extreme cold applied to the injured area stimulates oxygenated blood flow, reducing tension and inflammation. If you are interested in this type of therapy or pain management nearby, try:

Working on Wellness
9738 US Hwy 441, Ste. #106, Leesburg | 352.235.8139
WorkingOnWellness.net

Impact Bodyworx
2575 Kurt St., Ste. 103, Eustis | 352.801.1523
ImpactBodyWorx.com

Elite Recovery and Cryo (Cryo chamber only)
2410 E. SR 50, Clermont | 352.459.8148
EliteRecoveryCryo.com

**For extreme injuries or pain, see a specialist or a primary care physician. 

The UF Health Spanish Plaines Hospital Auxiliary Foundation’s ninth annual Hearts for our Hospital Bicycle Challenge will take place on November 9 at La Hacienda Regional Recreation Center in Lady Lake. The challenge features five route options for cyclists of all levels, fully stocked rest stops and a post-event lunch. For more information or to register for the event, visit this website: https://heartsforourhospital.raceroster.com/

Citizens First Bank has stepped up to teach kids how to save and spend wisely through special programs tailored for our youths. 

“We believe that you’re never too young to start learning fiscal responsibility,” says Josh Gonzales, first vice president and senior commercial banker. “Our goal is to impact students in all grades in the communities we serve as we teach them about the importance of financial education.” 

Some of the programs they offer are:

• Reading financial literacy-themed books to kindergarten-2nd grade elementary school students, then donating the books to the classrooms for continued use.
• Educating middle and high school students on financial literacy of managing money, setting goals, budgeting and the importance of good credit.
• For parents ready for their child to take that next step in developing good financial habits, they offer youth savings and student checking products.

Cannabidiol (CBD) is a beneficial compound extracted from the cannabis plant, specifically from the hemp variety. Unlike tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), CBD is non-psychoactive and is known to promote better sleep and relaxation and provide mild pain relief.

Consumable and topical CBD products that contain less than 0.3% THC can be purchased and used legally by anyone over age of 18 in Florida. You must be at least 21 to purchase inhalants.

Medical marijuana is legal in Florida with a prescription from a licensed physician if the patient meets certain medical diagnoses such as cancer, epilepsy, ALS and PTSD. For more information, consult the office of medical marijuana use at: www.mmuregistry.flhealth.gov 

United Way of Lake and Sumter Counties will host a 100-bird fundraiser tournament on October 18 at Blackjack Sporting Clays in Sumterville. There will be a safety briefing at 8:45am and the competition starts at 9am. You can be part of this fun community event and help raise money for a good cause. For more information or to register, visit their website: https://www.uwls.org/events/clay-shoot/

Breast cancer is the most common cancer among women in Florida, and regular mammograms help doctors detect breast cancer early. A guide to help low-income women who need this valuable tool is offered at www.freemammograms.org. 

Enjoy a day of health and wellness for the whole family on October 26 at the World Equestrian Center. Engage in interactive and educational exhibits, participate in free health screenings, learn about wellness trends and qualify for free gifts and giveaways throughout the day. Celebrate health, wellness and community at this exciting indoor event. 

Reserve your free tickets here: https://www.bmgevents.com/health.html

Financial crimes against seniors are on the rise. According to the National Council on Aging, in 2022 there were almost 90,000 complaints of fraud, resulting in over $3 billion in losses from people aged 60 and older. The top five reported scams are:

1. Government impersonation. A caller falsely claiming to be with the IRS or Medicare asks for a Social Security number.
2. Sweepstakes and lottery. A caller says that you won a big prize. You just need to pay the “shipping costs,” and they ask for a credit card number.
3. The “can you hear me” scam. A caller will ask a question and record your answer then use AI to pretend to be you.
4. The tech scam. Online scammers will inject fake links and once you click, you go to a fake 800 number claiming to help if you give them a credit card number.
5. The grandparent scam. The caller pretends to be your grandchild, says they are in trouble and then asks for a money transfer. 

If you feel as though you’ve been ripped off by a shady scammer, call Elder Affairs Florida at 800.963.5337, Marion Senior Services at 352.620.3501 or visit www.elderaffairs.org.

Silver River Museum & Environmental Education Center will host a living history exhibit November 9 and 10 from 9am to 4pm. The weekend-long Ocali Country Days Festival will include food vendors, unique crafts for sale, demonstrations of life in the 1800s, tram rides through the state park and tours of the Silver River Museum. This annual festival is fun for the whole family. For more information or to buy advance tickets, visit their website: https://silverrivermuseum.com/event/2024-ocali-country-days/

Locally grown food makes the healthiest meals, and the farmers market at The Market of Marion offers a steady supply all year round. The farmers market at 12888 SE Hwy. 441 in Belleview features vegetables, eggs, honey, fish and much more. The market is open Friday from 8am to 3pm and Saturday and Sunday from 8am to 4pm. Talk to the farmers and learn about how your food is grown while selecting the freshest produce available.