EVERYTHING LAKE MAGAZINE
August 2013 everythinglake.com
The Boys of Summer
EVERYTHINGLAKE INSIDE THIS ISSUE AUGUST 2013
MAGAZINE
7 Simple Ways To Green Your Life at Work and Home
19 Saltwater is the fastest growing trend in swimming pools
8 -9 Pets: Driving with Dogs
20 -21 Stress Management Tactics for an Improved Self, Inside and Out
10 - 11 Style: Dressing for Success on Campus 12 Smart, Safe Storage and Organization for Back to School 14 -15 Hurricane Dockside Grill Helps Leesburg Food Bank 16-17 Cover: Lake County Boys Go Play Baseball in Cooperstown
22 -23 Are your food and cooking Choices Accelerating the Aging Process? 24 -25 Celeb Worthy on-the-go Snacking Tips for a Healthy New You 26 -27 Simple Tips for a Healthier Flavorful Summer 28 -29 Myth Busters: Why Vinyl Siding is Americas hottest Home Design Feature
18 Take 2 Lake County Schools Recognizes Repeat Winners of Literacy Coach of the Year
Apopka Lightning
from the publisher’s desk Al Asghar
S
ummer seems to have come and gone. It seems like this was the fastest summer I have experienced in a long time. School starts in a few weeks and a few days after that comes Labor Day. Go out and enjoy what’s left of it. Our cover story features three boys that went on a dream team up to Cooperstown New York to play baseball. They are part of the Apopka Lightning 12u baseball team. I had an opportunity to travel with them watch these kids have the time of their lives. Thank you for making our radio show, Everything Lake Magazine Hour, a huge success for us. The show airs at noon on 790AM every Wednesday. We have great guests and giveaways every week, I also want to thank all of you who have sent in feedbacks and comments on our publication. I value your opinions and readership so keep them coming in. Enjoy the current issue and I will see you next month. Sincerely, Al Asghar Everything Lake Magazine www.everythinglake.com www.facebook.com/everythinglake 407-697-7933
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staff Publisher & Managing Editor
Al Asghar al@everythinglake.com
Design & Layout
Joe Ramirez
Photography
Jennifer Moseley Elizabeth Betsy Reed Val Fortier-Gray
Contributing Writers
Ajay P Amir Asghar Al Asghar
Advertising Sales
Al Asghar Matt Roderick
Cover Photo
Val Fortier-Gray
Cover Models, left to right Maley Fortier-Gray, Amir Asghar Chase Fakess
The goals of the writers at EverythingLake Magazine is to provide great stories that are true and accurate from beginning to end. Please be forgiving if we make a mistake. We will make it right. EverythingLake is a monthly publication and can be located in various Schools, Chamber of Commerce, Businesses, Restaurants, etc. Any comments can be sent to EverythingLake Magazine at al@everythinglake.com or call 407-697-7933. 2273 Jennah Circle, Eustis, Florida 32726 EverythingLake Magazine assumes no responsibility for claims made by their advertisers. All letters and their contents sent to EverythingLake Magazine become property of EverythingLake Magazine and maybe reproduced at any time. All views expressed in our magazine are those of the writers and may not be of EverythingLake Magazine. Use of the material in our magazine is prohibited unless written approval is given by EverythingLake Magazine
Simple ways to green your life at home and at work (BPT) - Reduce, reuse, recycle - it’s the mantra we’ve heard for decades, and it appears Americans are taking the message to heart and making efforts to go green in all aspects of their lives. Whether it’s in their own home or at their place of work, being earth-friendly isn’t just a trend; it’s the new modern way of life. If you’re looking to make your life a little greener - whether during the nine-to-five or the five-to-nine - consider a few simple ways you can save Mother Earth and feel pretty good about yourself too:
* Watch your water footprint and conserve H2O Water is an important part of daily life and Americans are lucky to have a reliable supply on hand at the simple flip of the faucet handle. The average American family uses more than 300 gallons of water per day at home, according to the EPA. We use even more at work or school. It’s time we take a closer look at our water footprint. You can reduce your water usage in numerous ways. At home and work, you should use WaterSense-labeled toilets, sinks and shower heads. Because both businesses and homeowners like to save, check out epa.gov to find rebates for water-wise improvements. Additionally, remember to turn off water when appropriate - such as when you brush your teeth or are rubbing your hands together to generate soap bubbles. Keep showers to 10 minutes or less.
* Look for products that use reclaimed materials Americans generated about 250 million tons of trash, and recycled and composted almost 87 million tons of this material in 2011, which is equivalent to a 34.7 percent recycling rate, the EPA reports. This rate is pretty impressive, and with waste now being employed as the primary
ingredient for things we use every day, this number is likely to rise. Reclaimed rubber is one such example. Ecore, a rubber flooring company, uses reclaimed rubber tires to make commercial flooring, and has been doing so for more than 25 years. Old, exhausted treads of tractor-trailer tires are ground, screened and separated to remove contaminants - creating a durable flooring option for businesses.
* Go green with your greenery
Being strategic about what plants you use for landscaping at home and work can help you conserve water and reduce maintenance requirements. Use natural vegetation appropriate for the region where you live. Ask your nursery or state’s extension service about shrubs, trees and ground covers that are good alternatives to grass. Native plants quickly adapt to changing climate conditions, so you’ll spend less time trimming and watering. While you have your green thumb out, consider placing a few houseplants in your office and throughout your home. As part of plants’ natural photosynthesis process, they absorb carbon dioxide and release oxygen, which helps to naturally clean the air around us. Some houseplants have even been shown to remove formaldehyde and benzene pollutants from the air. Increase your indoor air quality with a few good greens. Try houseplant varieties like philodendron, spider plants, (chlorophytum comosum) or peace lilies (spathiphyllum). These are just a few simple ways to green your life at home and at work - so you can make a difference for our earth all day long. Adopting an eco-friendly mind set for you and your family helps ensure the future is bright (and green) for everyone. everythinglake.com 7
Driving with dogs: Tips to keep everyone in the car safe (BPT) - It’s only natural for man’s best friend to stay close by his master’s side, but for dog owners who drive frequently, bringing Fido along for the ride can be risky. The problem is particularly worrisome for older drivers; a recent study conducted by researchers at the University of Alabama at Birmingham showed that for people 70 years and older, crash rates were higher among those who frequently drove with pets in the car. But for many drivers, leaving precious pets behind isn’t an option. The best compromise is to find solutions that will get you from point A to point B without compromising the safety of human or animal passengers. Distracted driving is a growing concern and a loose pet in the car certainly numbers among the potential hazards that can take your eyes - and mind - off the road and lead to accidents. While older drivers might not be as likely to be distracted by texting or smartphone surfing, even those who have spent many years navigating the roads need to honestly assess how having a pet in the car can divert their attention away from the road. To stay safe on the road when Fido is with you, remember these tips: * Don’t allow pets in the front seats. Having a pet sit on your lap is obviously distracting, but if he’s in the front passenger seat, the problem can be just as bad. In the front seats, your pet is more likely to be within your line of sight and obstruct your view of the road. An unrestrained dog in the front seats could also be easily injured if you have to slam on the brakes or swerve, or are hit from behind. The force with which airbags deploy also poses a safety hazard for dogs in the front seat - if you’re in an accident and they inflate and hit your dog, he could easily sustain an injury. * Create separation. There are a variety of pet barriers on the market that can keep your pet from moving between the front and back seats of your car. Installing a barrier will help keep your pet out of your way and diminish concerns about him being propelled forward in case you have to make a sudden stop. * Restrain your pet. There are a number of options for pet restraints in your vehicle. Pet seatbelts and car seats will help keep a dog safely in place. Keeping a crate in the car is also a good option. Make sure it’s secured and large enough so that he can stand up, turn around and comfortably sit or lay down. 8 everythinglake.com
Add a soft pad in the bottom of the crate and it might just become your pet’s favorite new way to travel. * Brush up on your driving skills. Today’s driving environment is probably very different than it was when you first got your license. A refresher course, like those offered by AARP Driver Safety, is an ideal way to ensure that your skills are up to date. Brushing up on defensive driving techniques and the essential rules of the road will help keep everyone in your car safe - and you may even qualify for a multiyear automobile insurance discount from your insurance company (check with your agent for details). AARP Driver Safety courses are available in a classroom or online setting, in both English and Spanish. Pets are important members of the family, so it’s only right that drivers consider their safety, just as they would for any other passenger. For more safe driving tips and information about AARP Driver Safety, visit www.aarp.org/drive.
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Dressing for success on campus: a guide to college fashion
(BPT) - College students are cash-strapped and time-crunched. So how can they look fashionable while juggling their studies, campus activities and a part-time job? Integrating basic items into their wardrobes is a start - and adding pops of color with accessories can transform a standard outfit into a standout style. Building off fashion staples “For both guys and girls, jeans, jackets and T-shirts are, of course, all staples for a college student’s wardrobe,” says Peggy Blum, fashion program coordinator at The Art Institute of Austin, a branch of The Art Institute of Houston. Blum says that this fall, “blue is heralded as the new black.” Warm reds and oranges, pastels, taxi cab yellow and loden green are also trendy hues. And while skinny jeans still rule the denim world, expect to see them in neon colors, or with printed or bleached treatments. 10 everythinglake.com
Blum recommends that students seeking a more comfortable fit choose a “boyfriend” jean, which features more relaxed styling. Blum suggests that college students invest in bold-striped T-shirts, with stripes that vary in width. She adds that prepster-style shirts are a fresh look for both men and women this fall. Also in style - wide-leg jeans and an overall masculine look, says Emilia Valle, program coordinator for fashion at The Art Institute of Houston-North, a branch of The Art Institute of Houston. “The look for the returning college student is definitely a coat or jacket with a strong masculine look. From pastels - yes pastels even in fall - to traditional men’s fabrics and some punk flair, this upcoming season is full of overcoats to complete a strong polished style,” Valle says.
Dressing for success on campus: a guide to college fashion Accessorizing: from shoulder bags to footwear Army style, denim and long shirt-style jackets are an easy way to accessorize an outfit, according to Blum. “For girls, pink coats are predicted to be a hit this fall straight from the runways.” Other must-have accessories include printed smartphone cases, sporty sneakers or cutout oxfords and strong gold-tone neckpieces to complete the look while complementing a summer tan. Blum adds that college students are trending away from backpacks and moving toward all-day bags. “A streamlined multipurpose tote will fit any student’s daily must-haves and is appropriate for campus to work or travel.”
And the runway trend toward disheveled grunge styles should be helpful to those seeking recycled pieces. “A nod to grunge every now and then works this season,” states Blum. The do-it-yourself trend is also extremely popular with fashionable, budget-conscious college students. “Thrifting at second hand shops, yard sales, or swapping clothing is a cost-effective way to remain fashionable on a budget,” she says. Looking fashionable while attending college doesn’t have to be time-consuming or budgetbreaking. By choosing a few staple items and adding colorful accessories, students can make it to class on time and on-trend.
Valle mentions that choosing a large leather tote will add a touch of class to a student’s overall look. “A large leather tote will work fab and still keep you in style.” Thrifty looks: fashion on a budget Students on a tight budget might wonder how they can incorporate fashionable pieces into their wardrobe. Valle suggests mixing old and new to create a fresh, budget-friendly look. “Remember, consignment and thrift stores can make a fashion budget stretch longer, and of course you can help out the planet in the process by recycling someone else’s retro fashion pieces,” she adds.
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Smart, safe storage and organization for back to school (BPT) - Reduce, reuse, recycle - it’s the mantra we’ve heard for decades, and it appears Americans are taking the message to heart and making efforts to go green in all aspects of their lives. Whether it’s in their own home or at their place of work, being earth-friendly isn’t just a trend; it’s the new modern way of life. If you’re looking to make your life a little greener - whether during the nine-to-five or the five-to-nine - consider a few simple ways you can save Mother Earth and feel pretty good about yourself too: * Watch your water footprint and conserve H2O Water is an important part of daily life and Americans are lucky to have a reliable supply on hand at the simple flip of the faucet handle. The average American family uses more than 300 gallons of water per day at home, according to the EPA. We use even more at work or school. It’s time we take a closer look at our water footprint. You can reduce your water usage in numerous ways. At home and work, you should use WaterSense-labeled toilets, sinks and showerheads. Because both businesses and homeowners like to save, check out epa.gov to find rebates for water-wise improvements. Additionally, remember to turn off water when appropriate - such as when you brush your teeth or are rubbing your hands together to generate soap bubbles. Keep showers to 10 minutes or less. * Look for products that use reclaimed materials Americans generated about 250 million tons of trash, and recycled and composted almost 87 million tons of this material in 2011, which is equivalent to a 34.7 percent recycling rate, the EPA reports. This rate is pretty impressive, and with waste now being employed as the primary ingredient for things we use every day, this number is likely to rise. Reclaimed rubber is one such example. Ecore, a rubber flooring company, uses reclaimed rubber tires to make commercial flooring, and has been doing so for more than 12 everythinglake.com
25 years. Old, exhausted treads of tractor-trailer tires are ground, screened and separated to remove contaminants - creating a durable flooring option for businesses. * Go green with your greenery Being strategic about what plants you use for landscaping at home and work can help you conserve water and reduce maintenance requirements. Use natural vegetation appropriate for the region where you live. Ask your nursery or state’s extension service about shrubs, trees and ground covers that are good
alternatives to grass. Native plants quickly adapt to changing climate conditions, so you’ll spend less time trimming and watering. While you have your green thumb out, consider placing a few houseplants in your office and throughout your home. As part of plants’ natural photosynthesis process, they absorb carbon dioxide and release oxygen, which helps to naturally clean the air around us. Some houseplants have even been shown to remove formaldehyde and benzene pollutants from the air. Increase your indoor air quality with a few good greens. Try houseplant varieties like philodendron, spider plants, (chlorophytum comosum) or peace lilies (spathiphyllum). These are just a few simple ways to green your life at home and at work - so you can make a difference for our earth all day long. Adopting an eco-friendly mindset for you and your family helps ensure the future is bright (and green) for everyone.
Hurricane Dockside Grill Helps Leesburg Food Bank Story & Photos by Jennifer Moseley
O
n July 13, 2013, the local community came together at Hurricane Dockside Grill (3351 W Burleigh Blvd, Tavares, FL 32778) to help raise money and collect food for the Leesburg Food Bank (1305 Sunshine Ave Leesburg, FL 34748). Marketing Manager, Whitney Dauth of Hurricane’s hosted a charity car wash, a car show and a live band at the restaurant to help out the food bank. “At the end of the event, they collected enough cash donations to provide food for over 300 families in need and approximately 150 lbs of food which translates into 172 additional meals.” Hurricane Dockside Grill is also offering a free appetizer (up to $6.99) for anyone who brings in at least 5 can goods/non perishable items to the restaurant as a donation to the Leesburg Food Bank. Flossie Snow (vice president) of the food bank said that they’ve had to go down to only opening four days a week because thereare so many families in need and not enough food to hand out. They are always in need of donations and volunteers.
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During the month of June they fed 522 families, 1,254 people and gave out over 16,311 pounds of food. They have been open for 30 years and would like to continue helping the local families out. If you’d like to donate or volunteer your time please call 352-326-5463
Hurricane Dockside Grill Helps Leesburg Food Bank Story & Photos by Jennifer Moseley
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Lake County boys go play baseball in Cooperstown NY. Three of Lake Counties young boys went with their team, The Apopka Lightning, to play in Cooperstown NY. These are the experiences of Amir Asghar from Tavares Middle, Maly Fortier from Eustis Middle and Chase Fakess from Mt Dora Middle. My trip to Cooperstown, NY by Amir Asghar I could not wait to get to Cooperstown. My dad had decided to drive. It seemed to take a life time. When we got to Cooperstown I got really exited. When my friends and I met at the bunkhouse that night we had a good time hanging out. When we started our games I had an awesome time. The team did really well; we won six games and lost only two. I hit four home runs and when I pitched, I only game up 2 hits. Another part of this trip that was also really exciting was going to the Baseball Hall of Fame. I got a chance to see some great players that have played the game. I could have spent a whole day in there. As we were leaving, I could not help but think of the great time I had in Cooperstown. This was the best trip I have ever taken and I will never forget it!
Amir Asghar 16 everythinglake.com
Cooperstown memories by Maly Fortier-Gray The motto of Cooperstown Dreams Park is “Live The Dream”, this is exactly what I did. Other team mates and myself traded team pins every chance we got. We had quite a few long team meetings with our coaches. Where we talked about baseball and believing in ourselves. The bunkhouse was fun, we joked around a lot, and we all had fun dancing and messing around while the coaches took showers. We played in the arcade in our downtime, and just hung out. I disliked most of the dining hall food, but it was still cool to eat with my teammates and a bunch of other teams as well. The concession stand food was good. We walked around in downtown a few times, went to the Baseball Hall of Fame as a team, and got to play around as well. At one point I rode on a kiddie dinosaur ride with our umpire Bill, while I was hollering and waving at random people. Our team played very well and we had a 6-2 record. We were eliminated in the sweet 16. There were 104 teams and we hit 37 home runs as a team. I hit the wall a couple of times when I was at bat, but didn’t go yard. I enjoyed watching the championship game, only wish that we would have been in it. We were inducted into the American Youth Baseball Hall of Fame and were given rings that we can wear. I think it is pretty cool that we will be are in the hall of fame and have become a part of baseball history in Cooperstown, New York. It was my best baseball experience ever, definitely got to live something that dreams are made of.
Maly-Fortier-Gray
Lake County boys go play baseball in Cooperstown NY. My experience in Cooperstown NY by Chase Fakess July 2013 My week in Cooperstown was a great one; one I will remember the rest of my life. We lived in barracks with our entire team and coaches for 6 days, we did a lot of pin trading which was a ton of fun I met a lot of people/teams from all over the country. My favorite team was from Hawaii. We played a total of eight games and lost two out of the eight. We placed 18th out of 104 teams which was pretty awesome. During our first game in Cooperstown my first at bat I hit my first home run and it was a two run home run hit and a first home run for our team that was pretty amazing for me. We played some pretty good teams and dominated them but sadly in the end we played a pretty stacked team from Texas/Louisiana that beat us 12-0. I am proud of my team and thankful to my parents and my coaches for giving me the opportunity to be a part of such a great ball team and being able to experience “The Dream”.
Maly-Fortier-Gray
Amir Asghar
Chase Fakess
Chase Fakess
Photographs by Val Fortier-Gray everythinglake.com 17
Take 2: Lake County Schools recognizes repeat winners of literacy coach of the year TAVARES — From helping students struggling with reading to partnering with the school principal and teachers to implement effective strategies, a literacy coach plays an important role in schools that can often be overlooked. Two of the School District’s exemplary literacy coaches recently shared the spotlight at a meeting of the Lake County School Board. Karen Colarossi from Eustis High School was honored as the secondary literacy coach of the year and Marni Kay from Astatula Elementary School was selected as the elementary literacy coach of the year for the second consecutive year. As a former reading and English teacher and literacy coach at Leesburg High and Program Specialist in the Curriculum Department, Colarossi is an experienced professional developer coordinating training for teachers, including coaching and mentoring and FCAT writing techniques. She is a former winner of the Literacy Coach of the Year title as several years ago she won the award at Leesburg High. In just her first year at Eustis High, she went above and beyond to help teachers at Eustis High as well as literacy coaches at other secondary schools. “I’m supportive and helpful to my colleagues in their endeavors,” Colarossi said. “Whatever they need, I’m there to help.” Kay’s repeat selection as elementary literacy coach of the year winner is by no mistake. The National Board Certified Teacher and former Teacher of the Year honoree at Astatula Elementary, hosted afterschool meetings for elementary school literacy coaches this past year to collaborate on reading and writing strategies. “We pilot a lot of programs at Astatula Elementary: the Paws Program, Developmental Studies Center’s writing curriculum Being a Writer as well as SIPPS,” Kay said. “Many teachers, Literacy Coaches and school leaders around the district often come to our school and learn about the programs. We think outside the box a little bit at Astatula Elementary. “There are a lot of great literacy coaches in the School District,” she added. “We need to find more time to share the wonderful things we are doing and to collaborate with each other.”
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Saltwater is the fastest growing trend in swimming pools (BPT) - Pools are great fun for kids and adults and when it is hot in the summer time or you’re on vacation, there is no better way to cool off. Most pools do require a lot of work to keep clean however and there is always that chlorine smell and the burning sensation that affects the eyes and skin. For many people it is the memory of the chlorine that is inescapably associated with all pools. But for kids today this memory is quickly becoming a non-event thanks to the increasing popularity of saltwater pools. Saltwater pools work by converting salt to chlorine using an electrolytic converter. This produces the same type of bacteria-killing chlorine found in a traditional pool, but in a radically different fashion. Since the salt generator is adding chlorine to the water at a constant rate, it is capable of displacing the bad smell and burning irritation we normally associate with chlorine and maintaining the right amount at all times. As the water exits the converter and enters the pool, the sanitizing chlorine eventually reverts back to salt, and the process repeats itself, conserving salt and keeping sanitizer levels balanced. However new salt does need to be added occasionally as salt levels can drop due to splash-out, rain and filter back-washing. Pool owners still should test weekly for pH and chlorine and monthly for other water balance factors. Saltwater pools require far less maintenance than traditional pools and are much less expensive to maintain as pool salt is far cheaper than traditional chlorine. This is a big reason why so many hotels and water parks in the United State have already made the switch. Plus when it comes to initial construction and installation,
the additional cost of an electrolytic converter is very small and easily made up in maintenance savings. Even converting an existing chlorine pool to saltwater can be paid off quickly. Saltwater pools are certainly not new. The technology started in Australia in the 1960s and today over 80 percent of all pools there use this system. In the United States, saltwater pools first began to see use in the 1980s and today have grown exponentially in popularity. According to data published in Pool & Spa News, today there are more than 1.4 million saltwater pools in operation nationwide and an estimated 75 percent of all new in-ground pools are salt water, compared with only 15 percent in 2002. Some may be concerned about the effect of salt on pool equipment, construction materials, decks and surrounding structures. However the actual amount of salt used is very low, less than .01 as salty as sea water. You may be able to taste the salt in the pool, but much less so than you can taste and feel the chlorine in a standard pool. When pools are properly constructed and normal maintenance is followed, salt water has no effect on pool finishes, equipment and decks. Since the Evergreen Commons senior center in Holland, Mich., converted its 65,000-gallon pool to salt water, members have been pleased with the results. “The minute you walk into the pool area you notice a big difference,” says Jodi Owczarski, the center’s community relations director. “There is no longer that chemical smell. People also tell us that the water is much softer. In the old pool, people said they sometimes had to wash twice to get all those chemicals off, but in this pool, they only have to wash once. All in all, people have been thrilled with this new system.” everythinglake.com 19
Stress management tactics for an improved self, inside and out (BPT) - There are moments when stress takes over all aspects of life, both personal and professional. The to-do list feels never ending; there are never enough hours in the day; and the challenges appear insurmountable. Feeling stressed is a normal response to demands encountered on emotional, intellectual and physical levels, and often manifests itself physically in many different ways - especially in the appearance of skin. Positively managing stress is essential to achieving a balanced lifestyle and naturally healthy-looking skin. Helping women everywhere discover the benefits of a holistic approach to skincare, the Simple brand (a range of facial skincare products that is perfect even for sensitive skin) launched the Simple Advisory Board, which is a group of noted lifestyle and wellness experts who help women care for their skin from the inside out. By focusing on different lifestyle choices that can impact skin like diet, fitness and stress management, women can look beyond their typical skincare routine for ways to improve their skin’s health and overall well-being. Women can embody the holistic approach to skincare in every way possible, which is why, when it comes to ingredients, Simple knows that what is left out is just as important as what is put in. This philosophy is the reason why none of the products contain dyes, artificial perfumes or harsh chemicals that can upset skin, just the purest possible ingredients for natural, healthy-looking skin. 20 everythinglake.com
Simple Advisory Board member, Dr. Josie Howard, is a board-certified psychiatrist who specializes in psychodermatology, an area of medicine that focuses on the relationship between stress, emotional well-being and skin health. Below are Dr. Howard’s top tips for effectively and constructively managing stress to help minimize the effects it can have on your skin. * Take a breather: Resting your body and mind is crucial to regulating blood flow and circulation, both of which are essential in achieving naturally healthylooking skin. When you feel unusually anxious and stressed out, it may be a sign of exhaustion or fatigue. Find a calm and quiet space and take a few moments to “take a breather,” by meditating, napping or even just pausing from the busy day. Allowing both body and mind to take a break will keep your body feeling more regulated and your skin looking beautiful. Closing your eyes and focusing on the sounds and smells that surround you in that moment is a great way to center yourself in the present; a scented candle and soft music can be of great assistance with this exercise. * Create a relaxation routine: Stress has a big influence on the health and appearance of skin and can show itself in many ways. When you are stressed, hormones in the body become thrown off balance. As a result, your skin’s ability to protect itself against environmental pollutants and irritants becomes compromised, leaving
Stress management tactics for an improved self, inside and out the skin more prone to breakouts, irritation and dehydration. There are many ways to create a sense of calm when things become stressful - listening to music, writing in a journal, or practicing yoga are great ways to constructively unwind. The trick is to pick an activity that works best for you and be sure to proactively make that practice a priority every day to effectively combat stress and improve your overall skin health. Say it with a smile: Any level of emotional stress we experience can readily be detected on our face, whether it is seen through breakouts, irritation and even blushing. When we smile, we not only look better, less tired and more refreshed, but our brains also interpret this as a signal that we actually are feeling happy and content. Moreover, smiling can help others react to us in a more positive way, which can lead to less stressful experiences overall.
Take adequate rest: The notion of “beauty sleep� is not a myth: deep, restorative sleep is essential for growth hormone release, which is necessary for effective tissue repair in the skin. Stress can impair sleep quality, leading to a cascade of hormonal consequences that result in unwanted physical results - unhealthy food choices, weight gain and puffy skin. Over time, chronic sleep deprivation can leave skin looking pale and haggard, reducing its natural protective qualities. Dr. Howard advises removing electronics (even smartphones!) from the bedroom to keep stress triggers at bay and to step away from the computer and other electronic devices at least one hour before bedtime.
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Are your food and cooking choices accelerating the aging process? (BPT) - When it comes to health, many people are aware of the major do’s and don’ts of maintaining a healthy lifestyle and diet. However, people often focus on their cholesterol, blood pressure, and body mass index (BMI), and overlook another key medical marker: Advanced Glycation Endproducts (AGEs). AGEs are harmful compounds in the body that accelerate the aging process and are linked to many of the top health concerns people face today. AGEs develop in the body or are ingested through certain foods, including browned, sugary and processed foods. When people consume too many of these foods, higher than normal levels of AGEs build up in their tissues. This accumulation accelerates the aging process from the inside out. Slowing the progression of AGEs is vital to living a long, healthy life. In an effort to educate the public about AGEs, the A.G.E. Foundation, a global not-forprofit organization, is unveiling the findings of its U.S. survey on the effect of eating habits and cooking methods on aging. The A.G.E. Foundation is dedicated to educating consumers about AGEs and how they can protect themselves.
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The impact of eating habits and cooking methods on aging Seventy-six percent of Americans know that eating and preparing processed food can accelerate aging, according to the survey. Thirty-two percent cited the manner in which they prepare food as having an impact on aging, while just 11 percent indicated cooking food at high temperatures affected aging. As temperatures warm up and outdoor cooking season begins, people will be heating up the grill with limited awareness of the way to reduce AGEs. The survey showed that six in 10 people prefer grilling their meat over oven-roasting (23 percent), stir-frying (9 percent), steaming (3 percent) and poaching (1 percent). “It is important for people to limit the amount of barbecued, sauteed or even toasted food,” says Dr. Michelle Davenport, a board member with the A.G.E. Foundation. “We’ve found that the higher the temperature you cook something, the higher the AGE level - and excessive AGEs cause our bodies to age prematurely.”
Are your food and cooking choices accelerating the aging process? The survey also showed that when people are eating processed, fried or sugary foods, 81 percent are more concerned with the impact on their weight compared with 58 percent who are more concerned about the effect on their internal organs. Controlling your AGEs The key to lowering AGEs is to reduce heat, extend cooking time and incorporate more water and acid into your food preparation, according to the A.G.E. Foundation. Water-based cooking methods (i.e., steaming, poaching) dramatically reduce AGEs. When queried about healthy ways to prepare meats for grilling, herb and oil ranked the highest (34 percent), followed by “straight to the grill” at 21 percent. Only 17 percent of respondents knew that adding an acid-based marinade was the best cooking method to reduce AGEs. “Adding a marinade in the form of lemon, lime or vinegar can cut AGEs by 50 percent,” says Dr. Davenport.
Avoiding foods high in AGEs and opting for brightly colored fruits and vegetables and whole grains, which are low in AGEs, is also recommended. Opt for foods that include iridoids, which are healthy elements produced in plants and found in certain fruits and vegetables like noni, blueberries, olive leaves and Cornelian cherries, as well as the supplemental beverage TruAge Max. In addition to eating a healthy, fresh diet and preparing low-AGE level foods, it’s important to quit smoking, exercise regularly, get enough sleep and control stress levels to achieve an AGEless lifestyle.
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Celeb worthy on-the-go snacking tips for a healthy new you (BPT) - We’ve all been there; 3 p.m. rolls around and suddenly you need a snack. As children, we thrived on snacks, but as we grow older many of us ignore those inbetween-meals hunger pangs. We ignore the signals our stomach sends us in an attempt to be healthy. However, healthy snacking not only boasts the metabolism, but keeps cravings for less healthy foods - like that chocolate cake - at bay. “Snacks help me stay motivated to keep moving throughout the day,” says Ilyse Baker, dance and fitness expert to celebrities and creator of the Dancinerate fitness program and videos. “I’m always on the go, so I have smart snack options on hand to keep my energy up between meals.” By following a few simple tips from Baker, you can transform your snacking behavior and even eat more healthfully throughout the day. * Be prepared. Having a few snack options on hand will help you make smarter decisions once hunger strikes. Slice up vegetables on Sundays to have available throughout the week to eat with hummus. Keep nuts, crackers and trail mix at your desk, in the car and in your gym bag so there is always a healthy snack within reach. * Choose foods you actually like. It takes a strong person to nibble on nuts day in and day out. By selecting snacks you enjoy, you’re more likely to eat them and not be tempted by other, less nutritious options. If you have a 24 everythinglake.com
sweet tooth, snack on a healthier alternative, like Nonni’s THINaddictives. These delicious almond thins are pre-portioned in 100-calorie packs and made with wholesome, antioxidant-rich ingredients like crunchy California almonds, savory pistachios and succulent cranberries. “For a quick snack, eat THINaddictives plain, or add a boost of protein by making a sandwich with a teaspoon of peanut butter and sliced bananas,”
Celeb worthy on-the-go snacking tips for a healthy new you Baker says. * Plan your portions. When hunger hits, it’s easy to go overboard with the snacks. Look for preportioned snacks or portion out your snacks ahead of time. It’s a great way to keep you from overindulging, which can lead to weight gain. Individually wrapped snacks are also great on the go alternatives so you’re not stuck finding something to nibble on that might not be as nutritious.
* Stop trying to be perfect. Sometimes you really just want to eat that piece of cake. Indulging in your cravings now and then is fine, as long as you don’t make a habit of it. If you decide to snack on something less healthy, opt to have a salad for dinner to even out the calories. Don’t let snacking derail your healthy eating goals. By planning ahead and selecting the smart nibble options, you can easily strike a healthful balance that will keep you satisfied while on the go all day long.
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Simple tips for a healthier, flavorful summer
(BPT) - Summer is here and with it comes endless chances to enjoy all the sights, smells and tastes that this season brings. “Summertime is all about stress-free entertaining and simple meals,” says Rita Held, culinary professional and NAKANO Seasoned Rice Vinegar brand ambassador. “The abundance of fresh produce and warm weather makes eating healthier foods easy.” Make the most of the season with these tips from Rita on how to make your summer healthier and more flavorful: * Visit a farmers market. Savor summer’s bounty of fresh fruits and vegetables by visiting your local farmers market. While tomatoes, corn and peaches are in season and delicious, also try out some produce you typically don’t buy. Watercress, fennel and rhubarb are all delicious alternatives to liven your meals. * Fire up the grill. Use it to cook more than just meats and vegetables by grilling a homemade pizza or ripe fruit. Grilled melon makes a terrific
light appetizer or side. Slice the melon up, brush each slice with seasoned rice vinegar and sprinkle with a little chili powder. Grill the slices for five minutes on each side and then top with chopped mint before serving. * Find flavor in herbs. Fresh herbs are a simple and healthy way to add vibrant flavor to bland dishes. Grow your own herbs for instant access to them at any time. The best thing about herbs? The more you use them, the more they’ll grow. * Outdoor entertaining. Having guests over for dinner? Take the meal outside and serve appetizers that showcase the delicious flavors of summer. Serve caprese salads on a stick and use hollowed-out bell peppers for dips instead of bowls. Not only will you wow guests with this unique presentation, but fewer dishes mean less clean-up at the end of the night. * Lighten up your meals. Warmer weather means you should be spending less time in the kitchen and more time outside. Look for simple, high-protein dinner salads, like a Chicken Avocado Quinoa Salad. Citrus-seasoned rice
Simple tips for a healthier, flavorful summer vinegar combined with mint and a bit of curry is the perfect flavor combination in this proteinpacked salad. Cook quinoa in the morning or a day ahead so it has time to chill.
2 cups cherry tomatoes, cut into halves 1/4 cup sliced green onion or diced red onion 1/4 to 1/3 cup chopped fresh mint (optional) Lettuce leaves
Chicken Avocado Quinoa Salad
Directions:
Prep Time: 45 minutes
Prepare quinoa as package directs. Allow to cool for 15 minutes, uncovered, then spread out on a shallow tray. Refrigerate until chilled. For dressing, stir together seasoned rice vinegar, oil, salt, pepper, and if desired, curry powder. Add several tablespoons dressing to a large bowl; stir in avocado to keep it from browning. Fold in chilled quinoa, chicken, tomatoes, onions and, if desired, mint. Taste, then splash with additional citrus rice vinegar if desired. Serve salad on lettuce-lined plates.
Ingredients: 1 cup uncooked quinoa 1/3 cup NAKANO Seasoned Rice Vinegar - Citrus flavor 2 tablespoons safflower, canola or corn oil 1/2 teaspoon each salt and fresh-ground black pepper 1/4 teaspoon curry powder (optional) 1 large avocado, peeled and diced 2 cups diced cooked chicken
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Myth busters:
Why vinyl siding is America’s hottest home design feature (BPT) - Chances are, you’ve seen and heard a lot about vinyl siding on home renovation television shows, in magazines and in your neighborhood. Once seen as a drab and boring alternative to aluminum siding, vinyl siding is now driving new design trends, effortlessly adapting to any architectural home style.
accessories. Additionally, the texture and attention to detail on the siding panels make high-end vinyl siding nearly indistinguishable from wood clapboard, cedar shake shingles or other traditional materials. -
Myth: Vinyl siding is boring and looks cheap
Thanks to these advancements in color and technology, top designers on shows like “Extreme Makeover: Home Edition” and “George to the Rescue” have recently made vinyl siding a focal point of their renovation and new-build home designs. And many historical societies across the U.S. have turned to vinyl siding for historic home renovations because of the wide selection of period colors, architectural details and low-maintenance benefits.
Vinyl siding has come a long way since it was introduced in the 1950s and manufacturers have made strides in research and development efforts for design and performance. Nearly 350 vinyl siding colors have been certified for color retention, according to the Vinyl Siding Institute (VSI). The variety offers homeowners a virtually endless palette of fade-resistant colors, combined with complementary trim, accents and
“After the devastating tornado in Joplin, Mo. in 2011, we built seven houses in seven days using vinyl siding exteriors,” says Kim Lewis, architectural designer of Kim Lewis Designs and former lead designer for ABC’s Extreme Makeover: Home Edition. “At first I was skeptical, but we were able to bring forward character-driven design on each of the home’s exteriors with vibrant colors and architectural
According to the U.S. Census Bureau, vinyl siding is a hot home exterior material, appearing on nearly one third of all new homes built in 2012, more than any other cladding material. Still unsure about vinyl siding? Consider these mythbusting facts:
Myth busters:
Why vinyl siding is America’s hottest home design feature
elements. After spending some time with the material, I have a more positive outlook on vinyl siding.” Myth: Vinyl trim doesn’t have the authentic look of wood A common misconception about vinyl siding is that trim options don’t offer a high-end look like authentic wood. Though in recent years, siding manufacturers such as Ply Gem have made significant strides in the design of low maintenance, holistic finishing solutions for windows, doors, eaves, gables, columns and more, introducing trim and mouldings made from cellular PVC. These trim packages are designed to look and function like real wood, accentuating the best features of any architectural home style, but eliminating the need to clean, replace or stain in years to come. With today’s trim options, even the most discerning homeowners will find there’s no need to compromise beauty to get low-maintenance curb appeal. Myth: Vinyl siding isn’t durable Don’t let the light weight of the product fool
you. Products like Mastic Home Exteriors by Ply Gem vinyl siding are manufactured with technologies tested to resist wind speeds of more than 200 mph. These products have been put to the test and withstood the elements in recent storms such as Superstorm Sandy. In addition to holding its own against Mother Nature, vinyl siding puts up a pretty good fight against Father Time. The product has tremendous longevity, in many cases lasting 30 years or more with very little maintenance and low cost of ownership. Vinyl siding does not need to be painted and it can be cleaned with simple soap and water. If you believed the myths above, don’t be discouraged. One thing that is undeniably true is that vinyl siding will continue to lead the way in exterior home design. For links to more facts and studies on vinyl siding, visit www.plygem. com. Manufacturer sites like these are also a great resource for homeowners who want to experiment with vinyl siding colors and options before committing to a new build or renovation, offering exterior design tools for photo-realistic virtual makeovers on a variety of architectural home styles. everythinglake.com 29
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