Lake County’s 4th Of July Celebrations Page 16-17
Natural Balance Natural Choice Blue Buffalo OVER 30 Brands of Dog Foods Pet, Lawn & Garden, Wild Bird Feed, Supplies
Farm & Pet Outlet
19814 SR 44, Eustis, FL 32726 352-589-1746
Monday - Saturday 9am to 7pm, Sunday 10am to 5pm
INSIDE THIS ISSUE 8-9 Summer safety: 5 tips to keep your pet happy and healthy
10-11 Bussiness Spotlight: Break Point Alley
12-13 From sea to shining sea: the most patriotic things to see and do on your summer vacation
16-17 Lake County’s 4th Of July Celebrations
18-19 5 Cooking Tricks That Add Bold Flavor To Healthy Foods
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20-21 6 Strategies To Boost Your Weight Loss Momentum 22-23 Enjoy Summer Fun In The PoolWithout The Harsh Effects Of Chlorine 24-25 6 Must Have Auto Products For The Summer
26-27 Creating characterful interiors with hardwood moulding
28-30 Is A Line of Credit Right For Your Business?
$1 DAY - 5 PM TO CLOSE 5-10 pmEVERY WEDNESDAY Games and Drink Specials
BIRTHDAY/CORPORATE PARTIES FREE POKER EVERY SATURDAY SENIOR FUN BOWL
12:00 noon Tuesday, Thursday, & Friday $10. per Bowler, Prizes Awarded
HALF PRICE SUNDAY’S
All games are 1/2 price after 3pm
FULL LOUNGE ROCKIN CASH IS BACK ON SATURDAY NIGHTS 1950 Classique Lane Tavares, FL
352.343.5333
from the publisher’s desk Al Asghar Summer is here. The kids are out of school and 4th of July is right around the corner. Vacation season has started and things are in full swing. Our issue this month is all about summer. We are covering Lake County Fourth of July celebrations in different cities. We also have stories for best travel spots, pet care in the summer month and lot more. We have some new media that we are adding to our portfolio. Visit our Facebook page for more updates and news on them. We will be bringing you more exciting local coverage. Look out for our upcoming issues. There will also updates on the new media. Lots of new and exciting stuff is coming, so stay tuned. Stay safe and enjoy all the festivities around the county. I will talk to you all next month.
AL ASGHAR EVERYTHING LAKE MAGAZINE www.everythinglake.com www.facebook.com/everythinglake 407-697-7933
staff Publisher & Managing Editor
Al Asghar al@everythinglake.com
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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. PO Box 606, Eustis, Florida 32727 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
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Is your money going out the window? It won’t with energy-efficient windows (BPT) - One of the largest contributors to a home’s energy efficiency is its windows. Energy-efficient windows can lower your energy costs and increase your home’s comfort while reducing your carbon footprint and increasing your home’s value. For example, replacing single-pane windows with ENERGY STAR windows can save between 1,106 to 6,072 pounds of carbon dioxide a year from entering the atmosphere. According to ENERGY STAR that is equivalent to saving 51 to 310 gallons of gasoline. Plus, replacing old windows with new energy-efficient designs can return more than 78 percent of the project cost back to you upon resale, the National Association of Realtors reports. To learn more about these statistics, visit www.pella.com. So what factors should you consider when shopping for energy-efficient, environmentally friendly windows? * The ENERGY STAR logo - You’ve probably seen the blue ENERGY STAR logo on a variety of products including your washer or refrigerator. That logo designates products that meet strict energy-saving guidelines from the Environmental Protection Agency. Windows and doors with an ENERGY STAR designation lower household energy use which saves you money and helps protect the environment. * Low U-values - In addition to ENERGY STAR ratings, look for windows and doors with low U-values, which means they resist the transfer of heat - the lower the U-value, the better. Double-pane insulating glass windows, with a gas-filled space between the glass, can insulate more than two times better than single-pane windows based on a comparison of U-values.
cladding, the metal exterior that protects the wood from the weather, on Pella’s wood windows and doors is made from more than 95 percent recycled aluminum material. * Product material - Wood windows utilize renewable resources. When shopping for wood, look for certified wood. There are several wood certification systems available, the most well-known being the Forest Stewardship Council or the Sustainable Forestry Initiative. Most of the well-known certification systems are developed and used with the same key purpose in mind; to practice sustainable forestry.
* Recycled materials - Evaluate the amount of recycled content used, either post-consumer or post-industrial. The roll formed aluminum everythinglake.com 7
Summer safety: 5 tips to keep your pet happy and healthy (BPT) - Summertime allows you to spend more time outside in the sun, enjoying breezy days and a vacation state of mind. But before you get caught up reveling in all that nice weather, it’s important to keep your furry friends in mind. For curious pets, warm temperatures and increased outdoor time can be a recipe for trouble. Maintaining a pet-friendly lifestyle and home in the summer doesn’t have to be expensive or time consuming. With a few simple tricks and tips, you can ensure your pet will thrive during the sunny summer months.
like to let your pets roam in your yard, make sure you
Your dog or cat is always there for you, now it’s time to do them a favor. Keep these tips from D&D Technologies, an award-winning lock and safety company, in mind for a happy and healthy pet: Keep head and paws inside the car. Driving down the road, you might see several cars with paws and heads sticking out the window. While most dogs love to feel the wind in their fur, it can seriously aggravate the mucous membranes and blow dust and dirt in their eyes. When your dog’s tongue is flying in the breeze, insects or other debris can enter nasal passages or the windpipe, possibly causing an emergency trip to the vet and even permanent damage. Check your pet’s collar regularly. For growing pups and kittens, be sure to monitor how quickly they grow. Check their collars at least once a week for the first year, or until they are fully grown. Not only does a tootight collar cause excruciating pain, but it can literally grow right into your pet’s neck. To be safe, you should be able to easily fit two or three fingers between the neck and collar. Keep your yard safe. If you 8 everythinglake.com
take the right safety precautions. You don’t need an expensive electric fence to keep your pets protected. For fenced-in yards, use the latest technology in gate latches such
Summer safety: 5 tips to keep your pet happy and healthy
as the MagnaLatch Alert Veritcal Pull. This easy-to-install latch cannot be opened by dogs and ensures your pup won’t be able to get out and lost on the street. Additionally, if the gate is left opened, the latch sounds an alarm to let you know your pets might escape. Visit http://ddtechglobal.comto learn more about pet and pool safety. Monitor time spent outside. Dogs are more likely to escape when they’ve been left alone for a long period of time, especially breeds that enjoy being active. Don’t leave your pet unattended for an extended period of time and make sure to check on him or her frequently. Limit exercise on hot days. While you might love taking your dog for a jog on a warm day, be extra careful on warmer days. Adjust the intensity and time of exercise for your pet according to the temperature. Asphalt soaks in the beating sun and can burn your pet’s paws, so walk on the grass if possible. On especially hot days, try to exercise during the morning or evening hours, especially for pets with white-colored ears, who are more prone to skin cancer, and short-nosed pets who will have more difficulty breathing. everythinglake.com 9
Amber
Business Spotlight
Break Point Alley 1950 Classique Lane, Tavares, FL 352-343-5333
Break Point Alley is the largest bowling complex in Lake County and have the most to offer their League Blowlers as well as the person that just wants to bowl once in a while. They also offer pool, darts, and a video arcade. Also offered is a full liquor, beer and wine Lounge called TIP OF THE BURGE! The staff is freindly and they offer daily specials. The Kitchen has some of the best food in the area. From their burgers, to their wings, they take pride in not only the preparation, but also the presentation. If you don’t see it on their menu, you can always ask and they will do what they van to accomodate your taste buds. Break Point Alley opens their doors at 10:00 am Monday thru Friday, and do not close them until at least 11 pm or later. On Saturday and Sunday, they open at 9:00 for Breakfast. They also have daily specials, so check out their specials area.
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From sea to shining sea: the most patriotic things to see and do on your summer vacation (BPT) - Summer isn't just the season of no school and summer vacations. It's also the most patriotic season in America, encompassing three iconic American holidays - Memorial Day, Independence Day and Labor Day. This summer, why not put a patriotic shine on your family's summer vacation plans? If you're like most Americans, you probably consider yourself to be patriotic. But how much of America have you actually seen? Summer vacation is a great opportunity to visit the country's many historic, cultural and natural sites, and share your sense of patriotism with your loved ones. Here are some tips, ideas and inspirations to help you give your family vacation patriotic flare this summer: Travel the American way The road trip is a great American tradition, and hitting the road in a recreation vehicle (RV) is an affordable, convenient way to see more of the country at your own pace. More than 15 million Americans will be on the road in 5.5 million RVs over the Memorial Day weekend alone, and more than 22 million Americans will go RVing this year, according to a survey by Recreation Vehicle Industry Association and Cvent. Traveling in an RV can save you money on hotels, and afford your family with an exceptional experience of all the sights and scenery along the country's highways. Numerous campgrounds, including ones at top National Park sites, put you close to the action in the comfort, convenience and independence of your own RV. Plus, traveling 12 everythinglake.com
in an RV provides you with more time to spend with your family. You can even take the family pet along on your trip!
. Visit iconic American parks America's National Parks System is unmatched in the world, with a size and diversity of sites that ensure most Americans live within a day's drive or less of a National Park site. Every year, more than 275 million visitors pass through the 400 locations that are under the National Parks Service's care. Protected sites include battlefields and other historically significant locations, heritage buildings and monuments, natural wonders, lake and sea shores, rivers, trails, recreation areas and national parks. The National Parks Service website has a highly searchable database of every park and historic site in the system. You can look for a site by name, location, activity or topic of interest, such as battlefields or natural wonders. The site also offers a clickable map that lists all the National Park sites in every
From sea to shining sea: the most patriotic things to see and do on your summer vacation state. While iconic National Parks such as Yosemite or Gettysburg may be on your bucket list, don't miss some of the lesser-known locations, as they are just as enriching. Many of the best-loved National Park sites also offer campgrounds with RV facilities. Technology can help you see more Knowing where you're going and what you want to see can help you get the most out of your travel time, so be sure to use all the technology tools at your disposal to plan your trip. Mobile technology like mapping apps and GPS devices can help you find your way and keep you on track to your destination. Road-trip-planning websites like GoRVing. com and Roadtrippers provide plenty of advice and ideas to make your trip enjoyable and memorable.
(and make reservations at busy restaurants) or help you find a grocery store so you can enjoy a meal in the comfort of your RV's kitchen. Some site ideas to get you started As you're planning your patriotic summer trip, here are some top sites that embody the spirit of America: * Mount Rushmore and the Black Hills, Keystone, South Dakota - One of the best-recognized emblems of America, Mount Rushmore is carved into a granite mountain in South Dakota's Black Hills. In addition to Mount Rushmore, the region has numerous other historic and natural sights, including caverns, wildlife and the Crazy Horse Memorial. * Gettysburg National Military Park, Gettysburg, Pennsylvania - The Union’s victory at the Battle of Gettysburg changed the course of the Civil War. It was both the war’s bloodiest battle, claiming about 50,000 lives, and inspired Abraham Lincoln’s famed Gettysburg Address. * Yellowstone National Park - Yellowstone is home to most of the world’s geysers, including the most famous one: Old Faithful. Wildlife and beautiful scenery abound, ensuring there’s much more to see and do in this national park that spans three states - Idaho, Montana and Wyoming.
Don't forget to check out the websites for each attraction you plan to visit. Knowing the hours and costs of attractions you want to see can ensure you don't miss a thing. Plus, these sites can also help you learn what's in the area, so you can decide ahead of time where you want to eat
* Pacific Coast Highway - State Route 1 travels most of the length of California's Pacific coast, affording travelers unparalleled views of the Pacific Ocean and access to a plethora of charming seaside towns along the state's coast.
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This simple DIY home improvement saves money and helps the environment (BPT) - In the typical American home, heating and cooling account for 50 to 70 percent of total energy use, according to the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE). Yet, much of that energy is wasted, leading to higher energy bills for homeowners. The DOE notes that the leading causes of energy waste in most homes are inadequate insulation and air leakage. Wasted energy costs homeowners hundreds of dollars or more per year and takes a toll on the environment in the form of greater greenhouse gas emissions. But avoiding these wasteful practices is easy with some simple checks to your home and DIY insulation. “A couple of areas in the home that are notorious for insulation problems are basements and crawlspaces,” says insulation expert, Ram Mayilvahanan of Insulfoam. “Many people discount insulation in their basements and crawl spaces because they are near the ground. However, the connections from crawl spaces, foundations, and ground footings to the actual house are areas that need to be properly insulated and sealed against air leaks. This can account for 30 percent of the heating and cooling energy loss for the average home.” In crawlspaces and unfinished basements, areas to check for adequate insulation 14 everythinglake.com
are on the foundation walls and the floor joists. “I was horrified when I first went into the crawlspace and saw the fiberglass insulation falling out of the floor,” says Troy Brown, a Seattle area homeowner. “It might as well not have even been there - and the home was only 20 years old.” The DOE has developed a “Do-it-Yourself Guide to Sealing and Insulating with Energy Star,” which offers tips for creating tighter, well-insulated basements, crawl spaces and even attic hatches using rigid insulation, caulk and cans of expanding spray foam, among other materials. “An easy, do-it-yourself fix for crawlspace, basement or attic hatch insulation is EPS (expanded polystyrene) foam,” notes Insulfoam’s Mayilvahanan. “EPS rigid foam insulation panels are easy to cut to size and fit into tight spaces, they are lightweight to carry and help keep the home warm, without the mess of fiberglass or loose cellulose fibers.” As Americans look back on one of the coldest winters on record and demanding weather conditions. A well-insulated home not only saves you money and reduces pollution, it is more comfortable to live in year-around.
Your Lake County
Lake County’s 4th Of July Celebrations
CONTACT:
Call Christopher Carson at 352-735-7183 or email carsonc@cityofmountdora.com.
Tavares Independence Day Celebration WHEN:
Saturday, July 04, 2015 TIME:
Freedom on the Waterfront WHEN:
Friday, July 03, 2015 TIME:
5 - 9:30 p.m. WHERE:
Elizabeth Evans Park 100 N. Donnelly Street, Mount Dora COST:
Free
DESCRIPTION:
Celebrate our Independence on July 3 with the City of Mount Dora and Wolf Country 103.1 FM featuring with “Lake County’s Most Creative” fireworks display, kids’ activities, live music and vendors.
3 - 9:30 p.m. WHERE:
Wooton Park 200 E. Ruby St., Tavares COST:
Free Admission DESCRIPTION:
Come celebrate the American Dream. Events, activities and entertainment in Wooton Park from 3- 9:30 p.m. Parade on Main Street at 5 p.m. Fireworks at 9 p.m. CONTACT:
Call 352-742-6319 or email dblais@tavares.org.
Leesburg 4th of July Celebration WHEN:
Saturday, July 04, 2015 TIME:
6 - 10 p.m. WHERE:
Venetian Gardens , Leesburg COST:
Free
DESCRIPTION:
Join us for a fun filled evening of live entertainment, traditional Fourth of July food,
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Lake County’s 4th Of July Celebrations
Your Lake County
kids games and baseball while watching Lake County’s most spectacular fireworks. CONTACT:
Call 352-365-0053.
4th of July Red, White & Boom WHEN:
Saturday, July 04, 2015 TIME:
6 - 10 p.m. WHERE:
Waterfront Park 330 3rd Street, Clermont COST:
Free
DESCRIPTION:
Come down to Waterfront Park and celebrate your patriotism at the 4th of July Red, White & Boom. Enjoy free admission, family activities, live music, food, and a spectacular fireworks show at 9:15 p.m. Don’t miss out on this great event! CONTACT:
Call Maritza Rivera at 352-394-3500 or email mrivera@clermontfl.org.
Eustis Fourth of July Celebration WHEN:
Saturday, July 04, 2015 TIME:
12 - 10 p.m. WHERE:
Ferran Park Ferran Park Drive, Eustis COST:
Free
DESCRIPTION:
Live Entertainment featuring the Jeff Howell Blues Band, Jerico and the Smokin’ Torpedoes. A free “Kids Zone” with a slide, bounce house, face painting, balloon animals, sailboat rides, free open swim at the pool and more! Fireworks at 9:30pm. CONTACT:
Call City of Eustis at 352-357-7969.
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5 cooking tricks that add bold flavor to healthy foods (BPT) - Warm weather and fresh fare go hand in hand. While healthy foods dominate the summer months, too often people fall into meal ruts where all they eat are simple salads and grilled chicken. Nutritious foods don’t have to be boring foods, though, because it’s easy to add pizzazz with a few clever twists. Citrus marinades Fish and poultry are quality lowfat sources of protein but can come up short in flavor. Fortunately, it’s simple to enhance lackluster chicken breasts or bland salmon with citrus. Think beyond lemon and lime and try more exotic citrus varieties like blood orange, kumquat, Satsuma and tangerine. Marinate and brush on the juices before cooking, or grill your grub with a few citrus slices directly on top. The eye-widening fresh citrus flavors will take your fish and poultry to new heights. Fantastic feta Think you need to give up cheese to be healthy? Think again. Feta is a lower-calorie option that packs incredible flavor into any dish. Nikos Feta, made by Certified Master Cheesemakers, has a classic taste and texture that makes it the perfect addition to boring salads. But don’t stop there - drape a slice of feta across bite-size snacks or add crumbles to favorite side dishes for Mediterranean 18 everythinglake.com
flavor that leaves you satisfied. Visit www. nikosfeta.com/Recipes for more ideas. Grilled fruit Fresh fruit is abundant during the warmer
months and provides plenty of healthy vitamins and nutrients. Instead of always eating it fresh, sink your teeth into new fruit flavor when you try grilling your favorite varieties. Lightly grilling fruit triggers the sugars to start caramelizing, which brings out rich, sweet flavors. Bananas, pineapple, peaches and even cantaloupe are great options. Cut them in half or chop into bite-size pieces and skewer before grilling. Infused waters Nutritionists agree that good old H2O is the best thing to drink to stay hydrated, but after a while plain water gets boring. Add a splash of healthy flavor to water by infusing it yourself. Lemon and lime add zest, but you can experiment with all sorts of flavor enhancements, such as cucumber, apple, grapefruit, berries and mint. Keep a pitcher in the fridge with water and your favorite sliced fruits and you’ll always have a healthy drink on
5 cooking tricks that add bold flavor to healthy foods hand. Trendy spices Nothing adds kick to a bland dish like a touch of spice. If you prefer a little heat and a whole lot of flavor, it’s time to add harissa to your regular cooking routine. This Tunisian hot chili pepper paste has a bold flavor profile that’s delicious with chicken, eggs and even when used as a sandwich spread. Some food insiders claim harissa will be the next Sriracha, so you can be ahead of the curve by stocking a few cans in your pantry. Want to try a few recipes that include several of these flavor-boosting ideas? The following is sure to inspire.
Greek Zucchini Bruschetta Makes 6-8 servings. Ingredients: 1/2 cup Nikos Tomato Basil Feta cheese, crumbled 1/4 cup fresh basil, cut into strips 2 tomatoes, diced 2 zucchini, sliced 2 tablespoon olive oil 1/2 teaspoon pepper 1/4 teaspoon salt 1/4 teaspoon turmeric
Slice zucchini into 1/3- or 1/2-inch thick pieces. Lay flat on baking sheet sprayed with nonstick cooking spray or lined with foil. Drizzle zucchini with 1 tablespoon olive oil and bake in oven at 350 degrees F until almost soft. Dice tomatoes and mix with 1 tablespoon olive oil, seasonings, feta cheese and basil. Top zucchini with tomato and feta mixture.
Instructions: everythinglake.com 19
6 strategies to boost your weight loss momentum
(BPT) - The rules of weight loss are constantly changing-eat this, don’t eat that, take this supplement and do this exercise routine. While eating less and exercising more sounds like a simple formula, finding the right weight loss strategy isn’t always as easy as it seems. Paul Kriegler, registered dietitian with Life Time - The Healthy Way of Life Company, knows the latest trends and one-size fits all approaches are rarely the key to success. “Over the years, I’ve coached many clients who were diligent and focused and who showed up and gave their full effort, but some small aspect of their mindset or lifestyle became a hangup,” he says. “Sometimes an element not even related to their health was holding them back.” Kriegler notes that getting creative with your weight loss strategy will help you enjoy the full measure of your success and offers six strategies to help drive your weight loss goals and break through those hang-ups. 1. Give the scale a break. Don’t center your weight loss success on a number. A simple 20 everythinglake.com
scale doesn’t come close to measuring the significant changes happening in your body during your weight loss journey. Keeping track of your daily weight may complicate your strategy as you experience daily highs and lows. Instead of focusing on a number each day, notice changes in how your clothes are feeling, and how you feel and move overall. 2. Adjust your media intake. Media is one of the biggest sources for weight loss and health advice, but these messages are typically generalized and based on observational research rather than proven methods and techniques. This can become frustrating and leave a negative impact on your weight loss success. Social media can also leave you feeling defeated. Take a break from the media and pay attention only to what truly inspires you to be your healthiest self. 3. Let your closet be a source of motivation. New clothes are exciting and you almost always want to wear them right away. But if you can’t, allow that wardrobe to fuel the power of your weight loss goals. Additionally,
6 strategies to boost your weight loss momentum if you have favorite outfits that are a size or two bigger than they should be, consider donating them to nudge yourself in the right direction. 4. Pamper yourself. Whether it’s a manicure or a massage, some type of weekly or monthly reward for your hard work is well-deserved and also recommended as part of a healthy lifestyle. Rather than treating yourself with food as a reward, pamper yourself in other ways and reflect on how far you’ve come. 5. Take it one hour at a time. When you’re starting out, losing weight can seem like an overwhelming aspiration. Breaking it down into smaller increments can make it more manageable. Start by having one “healthy hour.” Take the stairs, take a lap around the office at work, or ask for a salad instead of fries with your meal at lunch. As you spend more and more “healthy hours,” pretty soon your entire week will become healthier. Focus
on improving the present rather than the future. 6. Take pictures to document the process. While it may seem daunting at first, documenting your visual transformation can be a great source of motivation in weight loss. Not only do pictures provide important feedback, but you’ll be able to showcase the fun you’re having while gaining strength and energy living the healthy way of life. Your individual idiosyncrasies and characteristics make you unique, so not everyone’s weight loss strategy will be the same. Sometimes it’s the unexpected offbeat methods that are key to boosting your weight loss momentum.
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Enjoy summer fun in the pool - without the harsh effects of chlorine (BPT) - This summer your kids will be spending every day in the backyard, having a grand old time splashing around in the pool. You’ll probably spend some quality hours in your pool as well, cooling off when the weather gets hot and enjoying the beautiful summer days. The only concern you have is about the chlorine, which can cause a burning sensation that affects the eyes and skin. Chlorine can even
chlorine by 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 you normally associate with chlorine and maintaining the right amount at all times. As the water
turn light-colored hair green. You don’t want your summer fun to be interrupted by eye drops, calming lotion or green hair! Fortunately, there is an alternative, and it’s called a saltwater pool. Saltwater pools work by converting salt to
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. New salt needs to be added occasionally, however, as salt levels can drop due to splash-out, rain and filter backwashing. Pool owners should test weekly for pH and chlorine, like they normally do,
Enjoy summer fun in the pool - without the harsh effects of chlorine as well as 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. The cost of converting an existing chlorine pool to saltwater can be paid off quickly, too.
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.” To learn more about salt water pools and other uses for salt, visit saltinstitute.org.
Even the salt itself isn’t that damaging to equipment. That’s because the actual amount of salt used is less than 1 percent of what you’d find in 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, Michigan, converted its 65,000-gallon pool to salt water, members have been pleased with the results. “The minute you walk into the pool area everythinglake.com 23
6 must-have auto products for the summer (BPT) - Summer is a great time to get up off the couch and soak up the sun. As you stock up on sunscreen and prepare to protect your skin from the direct sunlight, be sure to pick up products to protect your vehicle as well. Whether you’re taking the car out for a summer road trip, a day at the park or just running errands around town, the warm summer weather can have an effect on your ride. The heat is not the only thing to look out for this season. Sand, dirt and water can easily find their way inside your vehicle as you spend more time at the beach and outside. There are thousands of aftermarket products and accessories available to protect, preserve and personalize your car, truck, or SUV as you head into summer, according to the Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA). In fact, Americans spend $33 billion annually on products to modify and customize their cars, trucks and SUVs, according to SEMA. Here are a few must-have products to get you through the summer: *Wax: The sun, insects, airborne particles and even dirt can be damaging to your paint finish. Protect your car’s paint and keep it looking shiny and clean during summer by giving it a wax. Wax products come in a variety of different forms and create a barrier to shield your car and 24 everythinglake.com
preserve its finish. Whether it’s a paste, liquid or combined with a wash, car wax is an easy and efficient way to protect your vehicle in the summer. *All-weather floor mats: As you start to enjoy your favorite outdoor activities, you’ll notice the sandy towels and muddy shoes begin to take a toll on your car’s interior. You’re left with soiled carpet and hardto-clean stains. Owners can protect their floorboard with an aftermarket floor mat. Available for almost every car, truck or SUV, a custom-fitted, all-weather floor mat will trap foreign particles and protect your investment. *Custom fitted seat covers: Spills, stains and snags are prone to happen in your vehicle as kids and passengers enjoy their summer snacks and drag their sand buckets and skateboards in and out of the back seat. Custom fitted seat covers are relatively inexpensive, easy to install
6 must-have auto products for the summer and provide durability to your seats and headrests. They come in thousands of colors and fabric combinations, giving you the ability to truly personalize your car, truck or SUV. *Wheels and tires: Replace your winter tires with a set of wheels better suited for warmer weather. Snow tires are designed for better traction in the cold and will not provide the same handling capabilities as a summer or all-season tire. If you don’t have winter tires, consider checking your tread wear to determine if it’s time to replace them. There are hundreds of different wheels and tires available to choose from that will increase performance, prevent overheating and improve your vehicle’s handling during the summertime. Check your local tire dealer for more information. *Window film: Block the sun and reduce the heat in your car with window film, also referred to as window tint. A variety of different shades are available when tinting the windows of your car, truck or SUV.
Window film can protect your interior from sun damage, reduce heat and offer safety by preventing your glass from shattering. *Roof racks, bike racks and cargo boxes: Make your outdoor summer activities easier and more accessible by storing your bikes and surfboards on a roof rack. If you’re headed to the beach for the day, you can transport your boogie boards, firewood and coolers in a cargo box on the roof of your vehicle. There are a variety of different sizes and styles of cargo carriers to select from. These simple, inexpensive products can make your summer more enjoyable by protecting and preserving your car, truck or SUV. Visit your local auto retailer to learn about the different aftermarket products and accessories available.
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Creating characterful interiors with hardwood moulding (BPT) - Just as tasteful, well-chosen jewelry can turn an unexciting outfit into a stylish, eye-catching ensemble, carefully applied hardwood mouldings and trimwork can transform a plain-Jane interior into an interesting - even beautiful - space. Today’s newly built houses often lack any sort of carvedwood ornamentation. Many older homes have lost their traditional decorative details through successive modernizing renovations. To transform strippeddown to charming, and ordinary to characterful, homeowners are incorporating decorative millwork to enhance their interior design. While there is an almost infinite variety of hardwood mouldings and trims, these are the most basic categories. * Baseboards, which run at the foot of walls and act as an elongated pedestal, are both aesthetic and practical. They visually anchor the wall to the floor and at the same time protect it from everyday lowimpact abuse such as kids scooting around in toy cars. * Crown mouldings, which run between the walls and the ceiling, soften the abrupt transition between wall and ceiling. * Casings, the trim surrounding door and window openings, define a wall opening and help connect the spaces being joined. 26 everythinglake.com
“Our clients are attracted to the enduring quality and ageless appeal of hardwood moulding,” says architect Jeff Murphy, principal of Murphy & Co. Design, a Buffalo, Minnesota-based firm. “For them, it’s the heart of the home - something they see and touch each day. Done right, it will last forever and always be in style.” For architect Tim Button of New York City-based Stedila Design, hardwood mouldings are appropriate in any room in the home, but he also says, “I think wood trim often makes its biggest impact in an entry hall where high ceilings allow for large-scale crown mouldings.” And he’s a fan of using stained-wood mouldings in bathrooms, “because it brings warmth to what can be a somewhat clinical space.” Edina, Minnesota-based architect
Creating characterful interiors with hardwood moulding Meriwether Felt agrees, having installed stained-cherry mouldings, trims, and casings in the master bath of a home she renovated. “The client asked for a luxurious yet elegant feeling and the cherry fit the bill perfectly. The stained wood warms up the bathroom and provides richness.” The size of the trimwork and the complexity of its profile will be determined by the size and style of the space in which it’s being installed; the larger and more traditional the room, the bigger and more ornate the trim. Crown mouldings in particular have a profound and sometimes unexpected effect on how people perceive the scale, proportions and character of an interior, so they must be chosen with great care. If too small and plain, they’ll look skimpy and undernourished; too large and ostentatious and they’ll overwhelm the space. If in doubt, consult a design professional. Before the Civil War, American hardwood moulding was made by hand, so it tended to be simple, elegant and expensive. In the later 19th Century, methods of mass production enabled builders to deck out even modest houses with affordable wood trim in evermore-complex profiles. The 20th Century saw decorative simplifications of the Arts and Crafts style, emphasizing clean lines, unfussy forms and the inherent beauty of natural wood. This was followed by the Art Deco and Modernist movements, which further streamlined or completely eliminated applied architectural ornament such as
mouldings and trims. Today, tastes tend to be eclectic, and whether you install an elaborately carved crown moulding featuring acanthus leaves and egg-and-dart detailing or an elegantly austere profile comprising nothing more than a graceful S-curve, will depend on personal preference and the overall style of your home.
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Is a line of credit right for your business? Below, Salmon outlines the pros and cons of a business line of credit. Pros: The main benefit of a line of credit is that it acts as a safety net for your business, Salmon says. “It acts like working capital and makes funds available for your business while (BPT) - From time to time, your small business you wait for payments on accounts may face revenue swings, prompting you to receivable,” he explains. “You can rest borrow money to meet your short-term cash easy knowing your employees will and working capital needs. One option is to get paid even with unpredictable, secure a business line of credit. temporary cash flow slowdowns or problems.” The Small Business Administration defines a line of credit as a loan given by a financial A line of credit is also a means of institution to finance short-term current leverage to help kick-start business capital needs, such as inventory purchases or growth. “Having the funds for extra operating expenses. inventory for a seasonal push can be tough for a small business,” Salmon says. “A line of credit is a useful tool for businesses “The line of credit could permit for that with regular expenses, like paying employees additional purchase of stock and allow or restocking inventory,” says Jim Salmon, you to be more opportunistic.” vice president of business services at Navy Federal Credit Union. “It can be tricky deciding A less obvious benefit is that it can whether a line of credit is the right tool for strengthen your relationship with your company, so we help our business your financial institution. Making members weigh the pros and cons before payments on time and abiding by the making the financial decision that’s right for arrangements associated with its use them.” shows viability of your company and 28 everythinglake.com
Is a line of credit right for your business? character of management. Should you decide to expand your business, a strong relationship with your financial institution will help you gain future acquisitions faster. Cons: Salmon warns that a line of credit can be easy to misuse and “can get you into trouble.” “As a business owner, you want to monitor how much you access your
credit line. Most are variably priced, meaning the rate can change quickly,” he says. Salmon also points out that just like a credit card, you should make the required payments, or your rate could increase sharply. In addition, owners should be aware of any added requirements that might be associated with having access to the line. For example, quarterly accounts receivable reporting and financial requirements regarding liquidity and reporting
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Is a line of credit right for your business?
years-in-business minimum or collateral. are common. “Owners should ask themselves if they are ready and willing Salmon adds that sometimes, “a small business is able to secure a line of credit to commit to such oversight,” he says. with the collateral being the assets of the business or personal assets if need Having a line of credit means there is on-record indication of how responsible be.” you are with managing or mismanaging your money. “It will count in the grand If your business doesn’t qualify, Salmon says there are other loan alternatives. scheme of potential credit and be For example, Navy Federal recommends incorporated in any future decisions with your financial institution,” Salmon a business credit card as a viable option for its members that need funds from explains. time to time for small purchases or cash advances. If you’re interested in obtaining a line of credit for your business, talk to your financial institution about your options. Follow Salmon’s advice above and talk Each institution has its own criteria for to your financial institution to see if a business line of credit is right for you. obtaining a line of credit, such as two30 everythinglake.com