February 2013
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inside
THIS ISSUE
February 2013 living green
How to ‘Green” Your Home in 48 Hours pg. 7
pups & friends
Dogged by Pricey Pet Care? pg. 8
special feature
Smart Spending Tips for Spring Home Improvement pg. 10 The Right Home Tools for a Healthier Lifestyle pg. 12
local park
Lake County Blueways pg. 14
special feature
2013 Mount Dora Art Festival pg. 16 Taste of Northern Lake pg. 18
youth works
Presidents’ Day pg. 20 Play Ball pg. 21
exercise weight-loss nutrition
Keep Your Office Healthy to Prevent a Flu Outbreak pg. 22
restaurant of the month Pisces Rising pg. 24
local band
Your Local American Idol, David Willis pg. 26
special feature
Guitars & Cars pg. 27 PBA Open at Break Point Alley pg. 28 Tips for Selling Your Home pg. 30
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$1 night Every Wednesday 7-10 pm • Games & Shoes & Drink Specials
Friday Night Dart TOurnaments 7pm Double Elimination
Friday Night Special Moonlight Bowl 9pm-12am $2.50 games & $2.00 shoes
Senior Fun Bowl Tuesday, Thursday & Friday $10 per Bowler, Prizes Awarded
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16 Annual Mount Dora Music Festival
February 14 -17 www.mountdoramusicfest.com
Half Price SundAY'S All games are 1/2 price after 3pm
Have your next birthday party with us. Like us on facebook
Leo Kottke
Saturday, Feb. 23, 2013 at 8 pm Grammy-nominated acoustic guitarist, singer and composer will perform at Mount Dora Community Center
Florida Storytelling Association February 28
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– March 3
rd
2013 Mount Dora/Tavares Business Exposition th
www.breakpointalley.com
March 13 Expo 1 PM – 6 PM; Business After Hours 4:30 PM Held at Lake Receptions, Mount Dora th
Night of the Irish
March 16 at 7 PM at the Mount Dora Community Building Irish Happy Hour Starts at 5 PM th
**Mark your calendar for April 28 Taste in Mount Dora** For more details visit our website www.mountdora.com
341 N Alexander Street 352-383-2165
staff
from the
publisher’s desk
PUBLISHER & Al Asghar ANAGING EDITOR al@everythinglake.com M
Wow!
What a start to this year. And it just started. Our radio show, Around Lake County, has become an instant hit. I want to thank the guests that have been on the show and all the listeners that have tuned in. You are the success behind the show. The print magazine is covering more events
ART DIRECTION Beth Gillmore
PHOTOGRAPHERS Kathy Waters Jennifer Moseley Elizabeth Betsy Reed CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Betsy Reed Dr. Kimberly Besuden Ajay P Al Asghar
ADVERTISING Al Asghar SALES 407-697-7933 al@everythinglake.com T Scott Walker Richard Hartley Matt Roderick
and stories around Lake County. What makes it even more exciting is seeing the large crowds at these events. It feels good to see people come out and enjoy Lake County. Again, I want to thank everyone for the great feedback. Keep them coming for your opinions are what make us better. Happy President’s Day and I will see everyone next month. ~ Al Asghar
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. EveythingLake Magazine assumes no responsibility for claims made by their advertisers. All letters and their contents sent to EverythingLake Magazine become the property of EverythingLake Magazine and may be 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 magzine is prohibited unless written approval is given by EverythingLake Magazine.
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living
How to ‘green’ your home in 48 hours Cost-effective and sustainable projects anyone can do with ease
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ur lives are more hectic than ever. In addition to working more than eight hours a day and caring for others, the average person (ages 25 to 54) spends approximately one additional hour per day on household activities, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics’ American Time Use Survey. With everyday maintenance tasks depleting your free time, you may think it’s impossible to fit in bigger home improvement projects. It’s time to change your mindset and re-evaluate your home improvement to-do list. While it may seem overwhelming, one weekend is the perfect amount of time to tackle a few cost-effective and eco-friendly home improvement projects that can add style and functionality ... and even save a little “green” as well. The following projects will help to “greenify” your home in just 48 hours.
KITCHEN CONVENIENCE-
Decorative details, such as faucets and fixtures, can go a long way to improve the style of your kitchen, but what about functionality and eco-friendly options?- Wave “hello” to your answer with MotionSense from Moen. Imagine the convenience of having a kitchen faucet that can sense what you’re trying to accomplish, and with a simple wave of the hand, immediately responds to your needs. MotionSense utilizes advanced sensors to detect a user’s movement in two sensing zones, immediately setting water flow in motion. Simply place an object - like a cup or your hand - near the base of the faucet to turn the water on and off automatically, significantly reducing water usage and eliminating the possibility of leaving the faucet running when not in use. Or, simply wave your hand above the faucet to start water flow - and a second wave to stop. You can also adjust the faucet’s temperature and flow the traditional way, using its convenient side handle. MotionSense faucets are easy to install and can be purchased at your local home improvement retailer or wholesale showroom.
(BPT)
SHOWER IN THE SAVINGS-
Any homeowner would agree that saving water to help the environment and to lower their water bill is a great idea. However, many may not agree if these savings interfere with the enjoyment of their daily shower. Luckily, the Moen Caldwell Four-Function Eco-Performance Showerhead is an ideal solution that offers water savings without sacrificing a quality showering experience. Installing in just minutes, you can shower in the savings, as Caldwell has a flow rate of 2.0 gallons per minute (gpm), 20 percent less than the industry standard of 2.5 gpm, and meets the Environmental Protection Agency’s WaterSense criteria.
FRESHEN UP- Paint can add an instant facelift to any room.
For as little as $20 per gallon, you can add some color, refresh the walls and help pull the room together. Painting an accent wall is also a great idea to add a ‘wow factor’ to your room while also saving time and money. And today, many paint manufacturers offer non-toxic paints with low volatile organic compounds (VOCs) formulations to reduce these pollutants in your home. Plus, unique formulations, such as Refreshfrom Dutch Boy, also offer added mildew resistance and are Indoor Air Quality certified by the GREENGUARD Environmental Institute, providing a paint that is not only healthier for you, your family and the environment, but is vibrant and durable as well.Not sure how to tackle this project or want inspiring ideas? New apps for your smart phone are available, such as ‘Better Homes & Gardens’ How to Paint Anything, to help with your room transformation. Although you may not be able to add more hours to your day, in one weekend you can easily tackle some environmentally friendly projects to help “greenify” and improve your home - and hopefully keep some money in your pocket.
WARM UP WITH COOL SAVINGS-
Did you know that yearly heating and cooling costs average more than $1,000? Installing a programmable thermostat takes only a couple of hours and can significantly help reduce your energy costs. And, programmable thermostats have come a long way with new, sophisticated technology. New systems resemble mini-computers and offer users an interactive experience. After answering questions about your preferences and usage, programs are set accordingly, letting you adjust settings from any room in the house. Not going to be home? Programmable thermostats are available to control settings from smartphones and you can set separate programs for each day of the week, giving you complete control over your heating and cooling and helping to reduce wasted energy. everythinglake.com
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&
pups
FRIENDS
Dogged by pricey pet care? Cost-cutting tips for pet owners (BPT)
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hese days, everyone is searching for ways to save money and stretch budgets. Consumer experts advise people to sniff out deeper discounts, saving opportunities and additional ways to cut costs. For pet owners, it can feel challenging to cut costs without compromising on care. Being vigilant is key, according to pet expert, Charlotte Reed. “Clip coupons, use store circulars and ask for discounts like family and friend’s rewards, and multiple pet or store loyalty programs,” says Reed. “Constantly challenge yourself to find ways to save money when it comes to pets. I do it every day!” To get started, Reed suggests using these five tips. Before you know it, you’ll be seeing savings on everything your four-legged friend needs.
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1. A MEMBERSHIP THAT PAYS You might think of AAA as being strictly for roadside assistance. Think again - pet owners can enjoy additional discounts, which most people never take advantage of. For example, pet-owning members can shop in-store or online and receive discounts with pet manufacturers and national pet retailers. Some discounts vary among regional auto clubs, but it’s always worth it to ask.--
2. INVESTIGATE DISCOUNT PET MEDICATIONS The Advocacy for Pets and Affordable Wellness (APAW) raises awareness among pet owners about significant cost savings they can enjoy simply by asking their vet for a prescription, and purchasing that medication from their local retail pharmacy. Just be sure to confirm the retailer’s
pet pharmacy program before dropping off your pet’s prescription. In addition, pet owners can purchase vetgrade, over-the-counter, generic medications, such as flea and tick treatment, for a fraction of the cost of the brand name at pharmacies such as Walmart, Sam’s Club or Costco. Visit www.APAW.org for more savings tips, and to find out what pharmacies carry pet Rx programs.
3. DEEP DISCOUNTS ON PET NECESSITIES Pet food and cat litter are two of the biggest pet expenses for dog and cat owners. If you purchase these products online from larger online retailers, cash in on the auto-ship option. In most cases, consumers not only get the discount prices of online purchasing, but they frequently get additional discounts which can more than make up for shipping cost.
4. PET INSURANCE CAN HELP YOU SAVE IN THE LONG RUN Americans spent $50.96 billion on pets in 2011, and $13.41 billion of that was on vet care, according to the American Pet Products Association. In recent years, treatments once reserved for humans, from radiation
therapy to kidney transplants, are now available for pets. That means once-fatal conditions are now treatable, but often at high cost. For pet owners willing to spend the money to treat their pet, insurance can be a viable option. Carefully reviewing deductibles and monthly payments will ensure insurance can fit into your budget, ultimately helping to defray costs in the event of an emergency.
5. DIY CAN KEEP MONEY IN YOUR WALLET Bathing and grooming at home can help save money, as opposed to going to a dog wash or paying a groomer. For additional savings, protect your pet’s health by cleaning his ears, brushing his teeth and clipping his nails. Ask your veterinarian or a vet tech to teach you how to maintain your pet’s health with these preventive measures. When your pet is a member of the family, you want to give him the best care possible. These ideas and others about affordable pet care can be found using resources like APAW; they’ll help you treat your pet right - without breaking the family budget.
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spending TIPS
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Smart Spending Tips for Spring Home Improvements
(BPT)
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pring home improvement season is on the way, and if you’re like most homeowners you have a list of jobs you want to accomplish. Some will be small, economical do-it-yourself projects. Others may require the services of a professional and a greater monetary investment. However you accomplish your home improvement plans, it’s important to do so as cost-effectively as possible.
TO MAKE THE MOST OF YOUR HOME IMPROVEMENT PROJECTS THIS SPRING, TAKE THESE FIVE STEPS: 1. Define what you want to do. Be precise and detailed in exactly what you want to accomplish. Going
into a home improvement project without a clear vision of the end result means you’ll be making decisions on the fly - and that’s the type of decision-making that can become costly. Knowing exactly what the scope of your project will be can help you better estimate the costs and stay on track with your budget and objectives.
2. Decide if you can do it yourself or need to hire a pro. Yes, DIY can save you dough, but only if you can
do the job right the first time. Fixing mistakes can cost more in the long run than hiring a professional. Be honest with yourself about your DIY capabilities, and if a project is beyond your scope, look for a pro to help.
3. Make sure you’re hiring a reputable contractor. While the majority of home improvement contractors
are honorable and just trying to earn an honest living, there are also less reliable ones out there, too. Doing business only with companies or contractors who are licensed and bonded can help you weed out the scam artists. Always seek independent reviews of any contractor you may hire. Don’t just rely on the references he or she provides.
4. Create a budget for your project, communicate it to your contractor and make sure he or she
understands you’re committed to staying on budget. Good contractors know how to balance quality concerns and cost constraints and will work with you to avoid cost overruns. Your budget should lay out how much you will spend on materials and labor, with some “wiggle room” left over to cover emergencies or necessary changes.
5. Check your credit. It would be great to pay cash for everything your home needs, but it’s not always possible. It’s likely you’ll need to fund larger projects with credit, so it’s important to understand your credit status before you apply for any kind of loan or line of credit. Knowing your credit score and what’s on your credit report can help you better understand the likelihood of you getting the loan you need and what terms you might expect to get on a loan. Enrolling in a product such as freecreditscore. com offers you the chance to get credit score alerts, identity protection alerts and fraud resolution support.
Spring is a great time to make improvements that will increase your home’s resale value and your enjoyment of your home. It’s important to make wise decisions about how you’ll manage and fund your home improvement projects, so that when the work is done, you’re left with a better home - and as little debt as possible.
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The Right Home Tools for a Healthier Lifestyle (BPT)
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ven with the best intentions, many of us who resolve to live a healthier lifestyle in 2013 will fall back into old, familiar habits much sooner than we would like. To maintain motivation and create a routine that is both sustainable and effective, it’s important to invest in the right tools for every room in your house.
KITCHEN Diet is key to overall wellness, and proper nutrition will help you remain energized and motivated to make other healthy strides. Unfortunately, some think making healthy meals is too time consuming and often make less nutritious decisions in the name of convenience. But with the right tools, creating a wide variety of tasty, wholesome options is quick and simple. With a high-performance blender like the Vitamix 7500, you can make nutrient-packed green smoothies, steaming hot soups and healthy frozen treats in minutes. Simply toss whole fruits or vegetables into the Vitamix, choose the settings, and in a matter of seconds the machine’s unmatched power and versatility will create dishes that taste great and are good for you. The new 7500 model also features easy controls and a compact design that will fit into most kitchen spaces - as well as your new healthy lifestyle.
BATHROOM That old bathroom scale won’t do you any good if it isn’t accurate. To monitor the benefits of your healthy habits and find motivation to continue to make health-conscious choices, invest in a new digital scale. Although many scales come with additional features, such as body-index calculators and memory storage of your latest weigh-ins, consistent readings are the most important way to follow your progress. There’s no need to spend a fortune on a new tracking tool as long as your new scale is easy to read and operate, and gets high marks for accuracy. If your bathroom storage space is limited, seemingly endless styles and sizes ensure that you can find a scale that fits any decor.
BEDROOM Sleep is crucial to living well, and making sure your body is well rested will help every other aspect of your healthy efforts. Having a supportive but comfortable mattress and pillow will do more than you may think to help your body get the renewing rest it needs. If you wake up with aches and pains, can feel coils, see depressions in the surface or have had your current mattress for more than 10 years, you likely need to purchase a new one. There are many types of mattresses to choose from, including innerspring, foam, no-flip and pillowtop selections. After researching your options, go to a store to test mattresses before purchasing to ensure you are getting exactly what you want. Carefully read the instructions to care for your new mattress properly and make sure your bed pillows are supportive of the neck and head for a superior night’s sleep.
CLOSET Exercise is important to a healthy lifestyle, and the right shoes are essential to any fitness routine. Whether you take an aerobics class, run, and bicycle or play a competitive sport, proper athletic shoes will provide the support and protection you need. The wrong type or improperly fitting shoes can cause serious discomfort and even injury, making this a vital component of your fitness plan. Not all athletic shoes offer the same benefits, so don’t purchase walking shoes to also act as running shoes, basketball shoes or for any other physical activity use. And despite common belief, adult feet do grow and change, so don’t assume you are the same size you were last year. Even if you plan to purchase online, go into a sports shoe store with knowledgeable staff to ensure you find the right features and fit. Armed with the right tools, you can reach your health goals and reap the benefits of a healthier lifestyle throughout the year, and beyond.
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lake PARK
Lake County Blueways
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blueway is similar to a hiking trail. Physical and geo-positioned markers guide trail users through the waterways. An ideal blueway trail also includes an abundance of scenery and wildlife as well as easy canoe and kayak access. The Lake County Community Blueways Project identifies scenic waterways that feature nearby amenities for paddlers. The eight trails are within the areas of the St. Johns River, Golden Triangle, Palatlakaha Basin and Oklawaha Basin. Each zone offers a different experience for trail users. For example, the Golden Triangle Run skirts along the lakefronts of Tavares and Mount Dora and is a shorter trail suitable for casual or novice users. Several of the St. Johns River trails are categorized as “wilderness� Blueways as these runs are located in remote, undeveloped areas and offer paddlers hiking and camping opportunities.
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Where Creative People Shop! Complete Artist’s Supply
Affordable Custom Framing Everyday Sale Without A Coupon! Prices! plus Student Discounts
DK ART SUPPLY & CUSTOM FRAMING 9910 U.S. Hwy.441, Leesburg (Acrossfrom fromChili’s Chili’sin inLeesburg) Leesburg) (Across
(352) 326-9555
www.fineart.dkartsupply.com www.fineart.dkartsupply.com Open Monday Monday -- Friday Friday 10-6, 10-6, Saturday Saturday 10-2, 10-2, Closed Closed Sunday Sunday Open everythinglake.com 15
2013 Mount Dora ARTFestival Story and Photos by Jennifer Moseley
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he very successful Mount Dora Arts Festival has once again come and gone with an attendance of over 250,000 people. This year there were 285 artists, 30 food vendors, and 30 sponsors. I spoke with the Volunteer and Membership Coordinator Krysta Smith who said she “hired� around 100 volunteers that helped make the 38th Annual Festival come together. She also said there were 10 free booths that they gave to local non-profits so they could set up and sell their items. The weather was perfect, the cotton candy was sweet and the crowds were in full bloom.
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Taste of Northern Lake The Damn Smoker
Umatilla High School
Blackwater Inn
Mason Jar
Nicky D’s
WINNER! Old Crow BBQ 18 everythinglake.com
Lakeview Terrace
ce
Hours of Operation: Monday - Thursday 11:30am – 9:00pm Friday & Saturday 11:30am to 10:00pm Sunday 11:00am to 9:00pm
Live Entertainment Thursday through Sunday nights on The Deck and 1:00 to 4:00 for Our Sunday Live Jazz Brunch (Weather Permitting)
Pisces Rising is a smart, casual restaurant with an award-winning equation. The dining room is naturally lit with walls of floor-to-ceiling windows that focus a diner’s attention onto beautiful Lake Dora’s nightly sunset. Our focus is fresh seafood and hand-cut Certified Angus Beef served with fresh seasonal vegetables and flair. Fresh, seasonal ingredients are combined to create a flavorful infusion. We take advantage of seasonal treats such as Copper River Salmon and locally farmed clams.
On the third weekend of every month we proudly present a superb three-course wine dinner that elegantly match three exquisite courses with three fantastic wines. We have had the distinct honor of winning both Wine Enthusiast Magazines’ Award of Distinction 2005 - Present and Wine Spectator Magazines’ Award of Excellence. 239 West 4th Ave. Mount Dora, FL For reservations call 352-385-2669 or Email to Info@PiscesRisingDining.com
youth WORKS
Presidents’ Day Story by Amir Asghar
ORIGIN AS WASHINGTON’S BIRTHDAY
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he story of Presidents’ Day begins in 1800. Following President George Washington’s death in 1799, his February 22 birthday became a perennial day of remembrance. At the time, Washington was venerated as the most important figure in American history, and events like the 1832 centennial of his birth and the start of construction of the Washington Monument in 1848 were cause for national celebration. While Washington’s Birthday was an unofficial observance for most of the 1800s, it was not until the late 1870s that it became a federal holiday. Senator Steven Wallace Dorsey of Arkansas was the first to propose the measure, and in 1879 President Rutherford B. Hayes signed it into law. The holiday initially only applied to the District of Columbia, but in 1885 it was expanded to the whole country. At the time, Washington’s Birthday joined four other nationally recognized federal bank holidays—Christmas Day, New Year’s Day, Independence Day and Thanksgiving—and was the first to celebrate the life of an individual American. Martin Luther King Jr. Day, signed into law in 1983, would be the second.
CELEBRATIONS AND TRADITIONS Like Independence Day, Presidents’ Day is traditionally viewed as a time of patriotic celebration and remembrance. In its original incarnation as Washington’s Birthday, the holiday gained special meaning during the difficulties of the Great Depression, when portraits of George Washington often graced the front pages of newspapers and magazines every February 22. In 1932, the date was used to reinstate the Purple Heart, a military decoration originally created by George Washington to honor soldiers killed or wounded while serving in the armed forces. Patriotic groups and the Boy Scouts of America also held celebrations on the day, and in 1938 some 5,000 people attended mass at Saint Patrick’s Cathedral in New York City in honor of Washington. In its modern form, Presidents’ Day is used by many patriotic and historical groups as a date for staging celebrations, reenactments and other events. A number of states also require that their public schools spend the days leading up to Presidents’ Day teaching students about the accomplishments of the presidents, often with a focus on the lives of Washington and Lincoln.
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delia’s boutique jewelry, clothing, accessories, gifts... everything under the sun 200 W. Main Street • Leesburg, FL 352.321.0628 www.deliasboutique.com Monday is make an offer day!
Mention this AD for a complimentary gift for stopping in.
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The Florida Grapefruit League (SPRING TRAINING FOR MAJOR LEAGUE BASEBALL) Story by Amir Asghar
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n Central Florida the tradition began in October 1908 with a single exhibition game between the Cincinnati Reds and the semi-pro St. Petersburg Saints. It resumed in February 1913, when the Chicago Cubs arrived in Tampa for the region’s first spring training.
Since then and now, Spring Training in Central Florida has grown by leaps and bounds. Spring training typically lasts about six weeks, starting in mid-February and running until just before the season opening day (and often right at the end of spring training, some teams will play spring training games on the same day other teams have opening day of the season), traditionally the first week of April. Pitchers and catchers report to spring training first because pitchers benefit from a longer training period. A week or two later, the position players arrive and team practice begins. Team members normally wear their batting practice uniforms for the duration of spring training and only wear their normal jerseys beginning on Opening Day. Here is the list of teams that play in the Grapefruit League: Astros: Kissimmee, Osceola County Stadium Blue Jays: Dunedin, Auto Exchange Stadium Braves: Lake Buena Vista, Champion Stadium Cardinals: Jupiter, Roger Dean Stadium Marlins: Jupiter, Roger Dean Stadium Mets: Port St. Lucie, Digital Domain Park Nationals: Melbourne, Space Coast Stadium Orioles: Sarasota, Ed Smith Stadium Phillies: Clearwater, Bright House Field Pirates: Bradenton, McKechnie Field Rays: Port Charlotte, Charlotte Sports Park Red Sox: Fort Myers, City of Palms Park Tigers: Lakeland, Joker Marchant Stadium Twins: Fort Myers, Bill Hammond Stadium Yankees: Tampa, George Steinbrenner Field When the 2013 Grapefruit League season begins in late-February, it will be the 125th Anniversary of Major League Baseball Spring Training in the State of Florida. The annual tradition has evolved from a time when players got into shape from the off season at fields around the Sunshine State.
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exercise WEIGHT LOSS nutrition
Keep Your Office Healthy to Prevent a Flu Outbreak (BPT)
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flu outbreak in your workforce can cause problems in several different areas of your business. The best flu prevention is encouraging and educating workers on how to be proactive at fending off the flu virus. By making sure your employees do the best they can to stay in good health and flu free, you can keep your business running smoothly and efficiently. Here are some tips on keeping the office healthy and productive from Staples, which has every product a business needs to succeed.
WAYS TO AVOID GERMS One of the best methods of flu prevention is to keep the passing of germs to a minimum. A recent survey from Staples found that 80 percent of workers come to work while sick and of those who do stay home, nearly two thirds come back while still contagious. While it is impossible to keep an entirely sterile environment, there are several ways to avoid catching the flu virus: • Stay away from people who are, or appear to be, sick. Encourage your employees to be alert for those that look like they may be infected with the flu, both at work and in their personal lives. • Steer clear of crowds and high-traffic areas. The more people there are, the higher the chances are that someone is carrying flu germs. Workers can decrease their odds of catching the flu by timing their errands and shopping at off-peak times whenever possible and doing their best to stay out of particularly germy areas, such as hospitals and schools. It is also important for those who do end up getting the flu to make sure they stay home to keep from infecting others. You can help your employees do this by encouraging them to stay alert for any signs of the flu and err on the side of caution to keep from potentially spreading germs to the rest of the workforce. Some experts recommend employees with the flu stay home for between five to seven days. Encouraging telecommuting when feasible may reduce employee downtime and prevent further spread of the illness.
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HOW PROPER HYGIENE CAN HELP KEEP YOU HEALTHY While staying away from crowds and sick people is an important aspect of flu prevention, it is impossible for your employees to be out of contact with everyone. Encouraging proper hygiene, both at work and at home, can help kill any flu germs floating around. There are three easy practices that can go a long way in flu prevention: • Encourage employees to cover their mouths and noses when coughing or sneezing. This can help stop germs, flu or otherwise, from spreading. You can make this practice even easier for your workers by keeping several boxes of-facial tissues within easy reach of employee areas. • Make hand-washing a top priority. Washing your hands is one of the single best methods of flu prevention, killing most flu virus germs that you come into contact with. Making this a companywide practice will help keep your workforce healthy. Posting signs reminding employees to wash their hands before leaving the restroom and providinghand sanitizer-are great ways to stay proactive.
OTHER WAYS TO KEEP THE FLU AT BAY In addition to avoiding and stopping the spread of germs, it is also important for employees to keep themselves as healthy as possible, making it easier for their bodies to fend off the flu virus. Encourage your staff to stay active and get plenty of rest during flu season. Providing healthy snack options and bottled water can also help make sure that your workers are refueling during the work day. By encouraging your employees to adopt these healthy habits, you can avoid the troubles, such as unexpected understaffing, that can come from a flu outbreak among your workers. Flu prevention is key to keeping everyone healthy and productive year-round.
Bath & Body products for Him & Her 411 N. Donnelly St Suite #105 Renaissance Building Mount Dora, FL 352-383-1102
Lingerie, perfum, cologne, bubbles, soaps, oils, candles, and much more!
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restaurant OF THE MONTH
Pisces Rising
AWARD WINNING DINING IN MT DORA Photos by Betsy Reed
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y culinary taste buds took me to Pisces Rising in Mt Dora this month. From the time I walked in to the time I left, this fine restaurant did not disappoint. This casual restaurant located in downtown Mt Dora serves up the freshest seafood and hand cut certified Angus Beef. “When I first moved up here from Key West, I noticed that the area was missing a restaurant that offered fresh seafood and hand cut steaks” explained Anney Winters. “We took this house built in the 1920’s and built out from it. We also choose this location for the simple fact that it overlooks Lake Dora and the sunsets.”
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I was taking a tour of the restaurant and noticed the outdoor deck bar and the patio that surrounds it. The deck was full of smiling patrons having a drink with friends and some were enjoying their meal out there. There was jazz music playing in the background. I looked over at Lake Dora and saw this incredible sunset and what an awesome sight it was. The menu had a wide variety of dishes on it. From their Real Seafood Gumbo ( Our Own N’AwlinsStyle Gumbo), the Charcuterie Platter ( a flavorful sampling of mojo pork, smoked salmon, Andouille sausage, truffle mousse pate, mushroom brie, olive tapenade, pickled vegetables slaw, red onion relish & hardboiled egg served with crustini toasts), just to name a few of their soups and appetizers.
They also have a wide range of entrees on the menu. I tried the Pastelon (Sweet Plantain Lasagna) and it was a True Caribbean Delight. I also had a chance to try their award winning Cuban Snapper. The snapper was perfectly cooked. The award winning deserts are freshly made in house daily. There is live entertainment on the deck Thursday thru Saturday. On Sunday’s they have their Live Jazz Brunch served from 11 to 3 and the Live Jazz Entertainment from 1 to 4. The entertainers are the best musicians from the area They have been consistently honored by both the Wine Spectator and Wine Enthusiast since 2005. Their wine list is unparalleled in the area and offers the perfect wine for any meal and any budget. Lovingly tended to by Sommelier Joshua Jungferman, this
list is constantly updated and upgraded to reflect new trends in consumer appreciation while paying homage to tradition. Pisces Rising is open seven days a week for lunch and dinner and offers a Sunday Brunch Menu. They also feature Wine and Dinner Pairings the third weekend of every month. For more information on Pisces Rising, log on to www.piscesrisingdining.com or call 352-385-2669.
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local BAND
Your Local American Idol David Willis
Story and photos by Jennifer Moseley
L
ocal singer and worship Leader at Lake Church, David Willis from Mount Dora auditioned for American Idol and is now going to Hollywood! On January 25th, he threw a Birthday, Blues and BBQ Bash to say Thank You to all of his supporters at Outdora Kitchens, 152 E 3rd Ave in Mt Dora. There were over 300 people in attendance. David graduated from Mt Dora High in 2009. With the support of his followers and everyone at Everything lake magazine, we wish him all the luck out in Hollywood.
• FREE DELIVERY • FREE DIABETIC SUPPLY BUSINESS HOURS: MON - FRI: 9AM TO 6PM SATURDAY: 9AM - 2PM SUNDAY: CLOSED
17435 US HWY- 441, SU-102 • Mt Dora, FL LOCATED IN AT&T PLAZA ACROSS FROM TARGET 26 everythinglake.com
• FREE ANTIBIOTIC PLAN • FREE BLOOD PRESSURE DRUG PLAN
$3.49 Generic Drugs
Guitars & Cars Photos by Betsy Reed
CENTRAL FLORIDA’S PREMIER EVENT FOR MUSICIANS AND MUSIC LOVERS
T
he monthly Lake County Musician’s Swap Meet brings together dealers, collectors, musicians and the general public for an afternoon of fun with a little business on the side where everyone can buy, sell or trade musical instruments and equipment and play a little music.
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PBA OPEN
PBA Open at Break Point Alley Story & Photos by Jennifer Moseley
F
or the first time ever the Professional Bowlers Association came to Break Point Alley in Tavares for the South Region Non-Champions Event. Over the three day weekend over 41 bowlers came out to win cash and prizes. The bowlers were very nice and were more than willing to sign autographs for anyone who asked. Kristian Rogers of Waxhaw, NC won the event and went home with a $2100 prize.
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Central Florida’s Historic Steam Train gives you the opportunity to ride on the actual train that starred in many award winning motion pictures ere Will be Blood”, ou?” THE PIZZA EXPRESS February 9 • 4:00pm m March 9 • 4:00pm
VALENTINE’S DAY TRAIN
February 23 4:00pm & 5:30pm
E JEM 8:10 TO LAK IN PHOTO TRA
March 9 ai Tr n departs at 88:10am
RAILS & ALES
March 16 • 6:00pm
EASTER BUNNY EXPRESS March 23 / March 30 • 10:00am
A4186
Sat., February 16 6:00pm departure
WILD WEST TRAIN RIDE & HOEDOWN
Check out the train schedule at www.orangeblossomcannonball.com!
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Tips for Selling Your Home By Karen Riscinto Vangie Berry Signature Realty
THINGS TO DO BEFORE PUTTING YOUR HOME ON THE MARKET – REMEMBER IT’S THE FIRST IMPRESSION THAT COUNTS! 1. Have a pre- home inspection. This way you can be proactive by arranging for a pre-sale home inspection. An inspector will be able to give you a good indication of the trouble areas that will stand out to potential buyers, and you’ll be able to make repairs before open houses begin. 2. Organize and clean. Remove clutter and pack up your least-used items, such as large blenders and other kitchen tools, out-of-season clothes, toys, and exercise equipment. Store items off-site or in boxes neatly arranged in the garage or basement. Clean the windows, carpets, walls, lighting fixtures, and baseboards to make the house shine. 3. Find your warranties. Gather up all the warranties, guarantees, and user manuals for the furnace, washer and dryer, dishwasher, and any other items that will remain with the house. Put them in one big binder and have it available for prospective buyers.
4. Spruce up the curb appeal. Pretend you’re a buyer and stand outside of your home. As you look at the front door, what is your first impression of the property? Does the lawn and bushes need to be cut and trimmed? Is the address clearly visible? Are there pretty flowers or plants around the entrance? Is the walkway free from cracks and impediments? 5. Get replacement estimates. Know what you are up against, do you have big-ticket items that will need to be replaced soon, such as your roof or carpeting? Get estimates on how much it would cost to replace them, even if you don’t plan to do it yourself. The figures will help buyers determine if they can afford the home, and will be handy when negotiations begin for both you and the Buyer.
WORK WITH A LOCAL REALTOR® Not all real estate practitioners are REALTORS®. The term REALTOR® is a registered trademark that identifies a real estate professional who is a member of the NATIONAL ASSOCIATION of REALTORS® and subscribes to its strict Code of Ethics. Here are five reasons why it pays to work with a REALTOR®. 1. Navigate a complicated process. Buying or selling a home usually requires disclosure forms, inspection reports, mortgage documents, insurance policies, deeds, and multipage settlement statements. A knowledgeable expert will help you prepare the best deal, and avoid delays or costly mistakes. 2. Information and opinions. REALTORS® can provide local community information on utilities, zoning, schools, and more. They’ll also be able to provide objective information about each property. A professional will be able to help you answer these two important questions: Will the property provide the environment I want for a home or investment? Second, will the property have resale value when I am ready to sell?
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3. Help finding the best property out there. Sometimes the property you are seeking is available but not actively advertised in the market, and it will take some investigation by your REALTOR® to find all available properties. 4. Negotiating skills. There are many negotiating factors, including but not limited to price, financing, terms, date of possession, and inclusion or exclusion of repairs, furnishings, or equipment. In addition, the purchase agreement should provide a period of time for you to complete appropriate inspections and investigations of the property before you are bound to complete the purchase. Your agent can advise you as to which investigations and inspections are recommended or required. 5. Property marketing power. Real estate doesn’t sell due to advertising alone. In fact, a large share of real estate sales comes as the result of a practitioner’s contacts through previous clients, referrals, friends, and family. When a property is marketed with the help of a REALTOR®, you do not have to allow strangers into your home. Your REALTOR® will generally prescreen and accompany qualified prospects through your property.
6. Someone who speaks the language. You can understand why it’s important to work with a professional who is knowledgeable in the industry and knows the ins and outs of real estate language. 7. Experience. Even if you have done it before, laws and regulations change. REALTORS®, on the other hand, handle hundreds of real estate transactions over the course of their career. Having an expert on your side is critical.
8. Objective voice. A home often symbolizes family and security. Because of this, home buying and selling can be an emotional undertaking and for most people, a home is the biggest purchase you will ever make in your lifetime. Having a concerned, but objective, third party helps you stay focused on both the emotional and financial issues most important to you.
YOU SHOULD ASK YOURSELF THESE QUESTIONS:
DOES MOVING MAKE SENSE? WHY DO I WANT TO MOVE? These questions will help you decide whether you’re ready for a home that’s larger or in a more desirable location. If you answer yes to most of the questions, it’s a sign that you may be ready to move. 1. Have you built substantial equity in your current home? Look at your annual mortgage statement or call your lender to find out. Usually, you don’t build up much equity in the first few years of your mortgage, as monthly payments are mostly interest, but if you’ve owned your home for five or more years, you may have significant, unrealized gains.
down in for good. For example, you may have realized that you’d like to be closer to your job or live in a better school district. 4. Are there reasons why you can’t remodel or add on? Sometimes you can create a bigger home by adding a new room or building up. But if your property isn’t large enough, your municipality doesn’t allow it, or you’re simply not interested in remodeling, then moving to a bigger home may be your best option.
2. Has your income or financial situation improved? If you’re making more money, you may be able to afford higher mortgage payments and cover the costs of moving.
5. Are you comfortable moving in the current housing market? If your market is hot, your home may sell quickly and for top dollar, but the home you buy also will be more expensive. If your market is slow, finding a buyer may take longer, but you’ll have more selection and better pricing as you seek your new home.
3. Have you outgrown your neighborhood? The neighborhood you pick for your first home might not be the same neighborhood you want to settle
6. Are interest rates attractive? A low rate not only helps you buy a larger home, but also makes it easier to find a buyer.
HOW TO GET AN OFFER ON YOUR HOME 1. Price it right. Set a price at your property’s realistic price range, not what you think its worth when you bought it; if in doubt get an appraisal. 2. Don’t refuse to drop the price. If your home has been on the market for more than 30 days
3. Prepare for visitors. Get your house market ready at least two weeks before you begin showing it..
Your dream home awaits . . .
Karen R
iscinto
Call today to unpack your dreams. © 2012 The Bunk Room
without an offer, you should be prepared to at least consider lowering your asking price, set up in advance with your REALTOR® how much and when you will drop the price until interest and offers start to come in.
352-250-3166
RealEstateOutOfTheBox.com
4. Be flexible about showings. It’s often disruptive to have a house ready to show at the spur of the moment. But the more amenable you can be about letting people see your home, the sooner you’ll find a buyer. 5. Anticipate the offers. Decide in advance what price and terms you’ll find acceptable. Discuss with your REALTOR® ahead of time. (continued on next page) everythinglake.com 31
(continued from previous page)
SIMPLE TIPS FOR BETTER HOME SHOWINGS 1. Remove clutter and clear off counters. Throw out stacks of newspapers and magazines and stow away most of your small decorative items. Put excess furniture in storage, and remove out-ofseason clothing items that are cramping closet space. Don’t forget to clean out the garage, too. 2. Wash your windows and screens. This will help get more light into the interior of the home. 3. Keep everything extra clean. A clean house will make a strong first impression and send a message to buyers that the home has been wellcared for. Wash fingerprints from light switch plates, mop and wax floors, and clean the stove and refrigerator. Polish your doorknobs and address numbers. It’s worth hiring a cleaning service if you can afford it. 4. Get rid of smells. Clean carpeting and drapes to eliminate cooking odors, smoke, and pet smells. Open the windows to air out the house. Potpourri or scented candles will help. 5. Brighten your rooms. Put higher wattage bulbs in light fixtures to brighten up rooms and basements. Replace any burned-out bulbs in closets. Clean the walls, or better yet, brush on a fresh coat of neutral color paint. 6. Don’t disregard minor repairs. Small problems such as sticky doors, torn screens, cracked caulking, or a dripping faucet may seem trivial, but they’ll give buyers the impression that the house isn’t well-maintained. 7. Tidy your yard. Cut the grass, rake the leaves, add new mulch, trim the bushes, edge the walkways, and clean the gutters. For added curb appeal, place a pot of bright flowers near the entryway.
8. Patch holes. Repair any holes in your driveway and reapply sealant, if applicable. 9. Set the scene. Set the table with fancy dishes and candles, and create other vignettes throughout the home to help buyers picture living there. For example, in the basement you might display a chess game in progress. 10. Replace heavy curtains with sheer ones that let in more light. Show off the view if you have one. 11. Accentuate the fireplace. Lay fresh logs in the fireplace or put a basket of flowers there if it’s not in use. 12. Make the bathrooms feel luxurious. Put away those old towels and toothbrushes. When buyers enter your bathroom, they should feel pampered. Add a new shower curtain, new towels, and fancy guest soaps. Make sure your personal toiletry items are out of sight. 13. Send your pets to a neighbor or take them outside. If that’s not possible, crate them or confine them to one room (ideally in the basement), and let the real estate practitioner know where they’ll be to eliminate surprises. 14. Lock up valuables, jewelry, and money. While a real estate salesperson will be on site during the showing or open house, it’s impossible to watch everyone all the time. 15. Leave the home. It’s usually best if the sellers are not at home. It’s awkward for prospective buyers to look in your closets and express their opinions of your home with you there. Take your pets with you when you leave!
LOW-COST WAYS TO SPRUCE UP YOUR HOME’S EXTERIOR Make your home more appealing for yourself and potential buyers with these quick and easy tips: 1. Trim bushes so they don’t block windows or architectural details. 2. Mow your lawn, and turn on the sprinklers for 30 minutes before the showing to make the lawn sparkle. 3. Put a pot of bright flowers (or a small evergreen in winter) on your porch. 4. Install new doorknobs on your front door. 5. Repair any cracks in the driveway. 6. Edge the grass around walkways and trees.
7. Keep your garden tools and hoses out of sight. 8. Clear toys from the lawn. 9. Buy a new mailbox. 10. Upgrade your outside lighting. 11. Buy a new doormat for the outside of your front door. 12. Clean your windows, inside and outside. 13. Polish or replace your house numbers.
These are the things that will help make your home selling experience more enjoyable. 32 everythinglake.com
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Youth Works
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ake.com
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