November 2014 everythinglake.com
Simple Twists To Enhance Classic Thanksgiving Fare Page 10 - 11 Lake County Events Page 16 - 17
The Do’s and Dont’s of Diy Beauty Page 28 - 29
INSIDE THIS ISSUE 7 How-to-maximizeyour-tax-benefitsfrom-charitable-
18 - 19 Make a grand entrance simple ideas to refresh your entry
8 - 9 Passion pays off no kill movementsaves millions of Pets
20 Ethical hackers combat cyber criminals to boost public safety
10 - 11 Simple twists to enhance classic Thanksgiving fare
12 -13 How to simplify holiday shopping this year 14 One in five children in America go to bed hungry
16-17 Lake County Events
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21 Small businesses check tax forms
22 23 A Cut Above the Rest
24 How to build your nest egg and ensure it lasts throughout retirement 26 - 27 Deadly diseases you should be more concerned about than Ebola 28 - 29 The do’s and dont’s of diy beauty aids
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from the publisher’s desk Al Asghar I love this time of year. To me, the time with friends and family, makes this a real special time. The cooking of a feast and giving thanks for what we have with our dear one is unique. Our issue this month has a lot of stories on Thanksgiving. There are recipes, decorating ideas. So, enjoy! Thanksgiving also marks the start of the holiday shopping season. A lot of stores now are open on Thanksgiving. There are a few stores out that still closed on Thanksgiving. Mega store like Costco and Game Stop are still closed. You hear and see horror stories on how people invade local shop and make a spectacle. So be safe when you go out there and remember to have fun. We have a lot of new features coming on our website in the next few months. We are going to give you more interactive features that will make our website, www.everythinglake.com, more fun and it will keep you coming back for more. I want to thank all of you for your feedback. Remember, your feedback is what makes us better. Happy Thanksgiving, see you all next month. Al Asghar Everything Lake Magazine www.everythinglake.com www.facebook.com/everythinglake 407-697-7933
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staff Publisher & Managing Editor
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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
How to maximize your tax benefits from charitable gifts (BPT) - You answer calls to support your alma mater, the local animal shelter and the American Red Cross with gifts of money and volunteer time. And after cleaning out the closets, dressers, kitchen cabinets and garage, you take a trunk load of donations to the thrift store. You know your gifts of cash, time and household items may be tax deductible, but what do you need to do to verify that and maximize your deduction? “Being charitable can cut your taxable income, as long as you follow a few simple rules,” says Jessi Dolmage, spokesperson for popular digital tax preparation brand TaxACT. “Those include giving to eligible organizations and keeping accurate records.” To determine if you’ve donated to eligible organizations, search the IRS’ database of Exempt Organization Select Check at www. irs.gov. Most religious organizations and government agencies are eligible, even if they’re not listed in the database. Keeping detailed records is important for accurate valuation of your gifts (and in turn your tax deduction) and in the unlikely event of an audit. Dolmage says records should include organization name, donation date and amount. For monetary gifts, keep the written acknowledgment from the organization with the donation date and amount. A canceled check or card statement with the transaction date also suffices for gifts under $250. If you receive merchandise, benefits or privileges in exchange for a gift, you must subtract the value of those from the original gift amount. If your payment is more than $75, the organization must give you a written statement with a description and estimated value of the merchandise, goods or services. For noncash donations, document the charity name, date and location of the items, along with a reasonably detailed description of the items. If you receive a receipt from the charity, keep it with your records. The IRS requires additional documentation for vehicle donations. You must receive a written acknowledgment or Form 1098-C from the charity for the vehicle.
Noncash donations, such as clothing, kitchen gadgets and furniture, must be in good condition or better. The tax-deductible amount of those items is the fair market value (FMV), the price if they were exchanged between willing buyers and sellers. Special rules apply to donations of cars, boats airplanes, property subject to debt, investments that have appreciated in value and inventory from your business. Mobile apps can make tracking throughout the year painless. Donation Assistant by TaxACT tracks cash, noncash and recurring gifts, with FMVs for more than 1,300 commonly donated household items. You can also save photos of your donations and receipts. When doing your taxes, import the information and TaxACT Deluxe will calculate your maximum deduction and complete your tax forms. You can deduct charitable gifts you made between Jan. 1 and Dec. 31 only if you itemize deductions on Form 1040 Schedule A. In order to itemize, all of your itemized deductions must exceed the standard deduction amount based on your adjusted gross income and filing status. Additionally, you must file Form 8283 if your noncash contributions total more than $500, and include a qualified appraisal of property worth more than $5,000. Download the free Donation Assistant app at www.taxact.com/apps and learn more about the tax rules of charitable giving at www.irs.gov and www.taxact.com/taxinfo.
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Passion pays off: No-kill movement saves millions of animals per year (BPT) - Americans like to think of themselves as a pet-loving society; today, nearly 70 million dogs and 74 million cats live in U.S. households, according to the American Veterinary Medical Association. Yet as recently as 30 years ago, animal shelters across the country routinely killed an estimated 17 million companion animals a year as a means of population control. Today, the no-kill movement - which advocates adoption and spaying/neutering, rather than euthanasia to control the companion animal population - has helped reduce significantly the number of animals killed in shelters, saving about 13 million per year. The handful of passionate activists who helped launch the movement three decades ago say there is still work to be done, and that everyday Americans, working together, can help end the killing of shelter animals altogether. “All life has intrinsic value,” says Francis Battista, a co-founder of Best Friends Animal Society, which has been at the forefront of the no-kill movement for three decades.
“By relating with kindness and unconditional love toward the most vulnerable members of our society, we are celebrating the intrinsic value of life, uplifting society as a whole, and moving us all toward the better, kinder and more loving community we all aspire to live in.” In 1984, when a group of 28 passionate activists founded the first Best Friends Animal Society no-kill sanctuary in Utah, American shelters practiced killing as the primary means of controlling the country’s population of unwanted companion pets. Five years later, no-kill advocate Ed Duvin wrote a revolutionary article, “In the Name of Mercy,” that challenged conventional wisdom about the “kindest” way to manage homeless animals, appealed for a new ethic in animal sheltering and set the philosophical stage for the no-kill movement. Just 10 years after the founding of Best Friends, the city of San Francisco became America’s first “no-kill city,” when the San Francisco SPCA and the city’s Department of Animal Care and Control established an
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Passion pays off: No-kill movement saves millions of animals per year adoption pact for homeless animals. Today, communities across the country have adopted the no-kill philosophy. OutTheFrontDoor.com, a website that tracks the progress of the no-kill movement, currently lists 264 communities that either credibly report they have a “live release rate” of 90 percent or more - meaning the majority of animals taken into their shelters are saved - or that approach that percentage. Since the inception of the no-kill movement, millions of homeless animals have been saved. Still, animal advocacy groups estimate that just 3 million to 4 million of the 6 million to 8 million animals that enter shelters each year are adopted. What’s more, Best Friends estimates that 90 percent of all the animals that enter shelters each year could be adoptable. Adoption and spay/neutering programs are key alternatives to killing homeless animals. In addition to adopting from animal shelters, you can support the no-kill movement by:
* Volunteering or financially supporting your local no-kill shelter. * Donating supplies or your time. * Choosing not to do business with pet stores that get their animals from puppy mills. * Having your pets spayed or neutered to help control the animal population. * Founding a capture, spay/neuter and release program if your community has a feral cat population. To learn more about the no-kill movement, visit www.bestfriends.org. “It’s important for people to understand that the no-kill movement is deeply rooted in the basic principle of kindness,” says Gregory Castle, a Cambridge-educated philosophy major who built the roads and electrical systems for the original Best Friends sanctuary in 1984 and is now the organization’s CEO. “If we dismiss the importance of being kind to animals, we won’t be successful in our efforts to be kind to each other. By caring for animals, we’re learning how to better care for each other.”
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Simple twists to enhance classic Thanksgiving fare (BPT) - Family and friends make Thanksgiving special, but it’s the food that’s always the center of attention. From juicy turkey and creamy potatoes to zesty cranberries and buttery rolls, nobody leaves the table hungry. This year, delight guests by making the classic foods they love but with a few simple twists that will leave taste buds dancing. Appetizers When guests arrive, give them something to nibble on as they visit and watch the parade or game. A cheese platter that features three to five new varieties will get everyone talking. Select a range of flavors to tempt every palate, such as pairing soft brie with a crumbly blue and Black Creek premium extra-aged cheddar cheese, made by Certified Master Cheesemakers. Accompaniments The cheese shouldn’t stand alone, so be sure to complement it with fresh fruits. Instead of simply placing bite-size pieces on a plate, create fruit cornucopias using sugar ice cream cones. Simply spoon fruit into the cones and arrange the mini cornucopias on a platter for a beautiful seasonal presentation that’s easy to grab and enjoy for party guests young and old. Drinks Apple cider is a holiday must-have to quench Thanksgiving thirst. This year, add some interest to your beverage offerings with a themed drink that expands on the sweet cider flavors. For example, an autumn sangria is the perfect seasonal offering that’s as cheerful as it is refreshing. Start with sparkling wine and add in a splash of cider with freshly sliced pears and apples. Finish with a few cranberries and sprinkle some nutmeg on top. For young guests or those who prefer nonalcoholic drinks, simply swap out wine for alcohol-free sparkling juice.
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Cranberries Cranberries are a Thanksgiving staple, but most people take a small spoonful and move on. If you want to add new flavor to cranberries so guests will be asking for seconds, different spices and additions could mean lip-smacking results. Sweet citrus fruits like oranges taste heavenly when cooked down with cranberries. A splash of port can bring new depths to the classic dish, too. Allspice, cinnamon, nutmeg and even chili powder can add surprising flavor. If you want to add texture, crushed walnuts add crunch and complexity to the sauce. Potatoes Thanksgiving menus often include several potato dishes. The secret to enhancing potato dishes is adding cheese for an indulgent result. For example, the complex flavors of crumbled gorgonzola folded into sweet potatoes make a rich dish that guests will love. With a cheesemaking history that dates back to 1923, you can’t go wrong with Stella Gorgonzola. Upgrade standard mashed all-purpose white potatoes (russet, Idaho, etc.) by sprinkling in freshly grated parmesan or cheddar for extra kick. Dessert No matter how full you are after your Thanksgiving dinner, there’s always room for dessert. Instead of or in addition to pumpkin pie, try pumpkin cupcakes or pumpkin cheesecake. Add new flavor to apple pie or apple crisp by mixing shredded cheddar cheese into the apple mixture prior to baking. Guests will ooh-and-ahh over how the sharp cheddar flavor enhances the sweet apple filling.
Simple twists to enhance classic Thanksgiving fare Baked Sweet Potatoes with Cranberry Gorgonzola Gremolata Makes 6 servings.
Cheddar Apple Crisp Makes 8 servings.
Ingredients: 4 cups apples (crisp and tart such as Braeburn), peeled and sliced 1 tablespoon lemon juice 1/3 plus 1/2 cup brown sugar, firmly packed, divided 1/2 cup rolled oats 1/4 cup flour 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon 1/2 cup butter 1 cup Black Creek cheddar cheese, shredded Instructions: Preheat oven to 350 F. Combine apples, lemon juice and 1/3 cup brown sugar. Arrange in buttered 8 or 9-inch square pan. Combine dry ingredients and cut in butter until mixture is crumbly; gently mix in cheese. Sprinkle evenly over apple mixture. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes. Serve with ice cream or whipped cream, garnish with shredded cheese.
Ingredients: 6 medium sweet potatoes 1/4 cup melted butter 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/4 cup pure maple syrup 1/4 cup minced fresh parsley 1 lemon, zested 1 clove garlic, minced finely 3 tablespoons minced pecans 3 tablespoons finely chopped dried cranberries 1 scallion, minced 2 ounces Stella gorgonzola, crumbled (If you prefer a milder flavor, use 2 ounces crumbled blue cheese instead of gorgonzola) Instructions: Preheat oven to 450 F. Place sweet potatoes on cookie sheet and bake for 30 minutes. Flip over and return to oven to bake until tender about 20 minutes. Remove from oven and set aside. When cool enough to do so safely, peel sweet potatoes. Place in a medium skillet over low heat with butter, salt and maple syrup for 5 minutes, basting the potatoes with the butter mixture occasionally. Lightly smash the potatoes until there is an even consistency. Hold over low heat. To make the gremolata: In a small bowl, toss together parsley, lemon zest, garlic, pecans, cranberries and scallion. Gently fold in the cheese. Move sweet potatoes to a serving dish and sprinkle with the gremolata. Serve hot.
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How to simplify holiday shopping this year
(BPT) - Does the prospect of holiday shopping make you dance with joy, or tremble with dread? Americans seem pretty evenly split into both categories, a CBS News poll found last year. Love it or hate it, holiday shopping has to happen - the National Retail Federation says more than 90 percent of Americans celebrate Christmas, Hanukkah or Kwanza. So why not take some steps to streamline your holiday shopping, and make it as easy and costeffective as possible? Plan early - and firmly Even if you love it, last-minute, directionless holiday shopping can create stress. That’s why for some American shoppers, the holiday shopping season starts as early as Sept. 30. Start by making a holiday shopping list as early as possible. Your list should include every person you have to shop for, a budget allotment for his or her gift, and at least two good gift ideas. Be sure to include a few generic items that can work as reciprocation for unexpected gifts you receive, or for anyone who may slip your mind until the last minute.
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Once you have a plan and budget in mind, stick to it. While some flexibility can help you take advantage of a great deal, sticking to a plan can help you avoid overspending - and ensure no one goes without this holiday season. Timing is everything Certain items will be deeply discounted on Black Friday, such as home goods and everyday items like coffee makers and cameras. Other items - like electronics and even cars - are likely to go on sale as the end of the year approaches and sellers strive to clear out lingering 2014 inventory to make room for incoming 2015 products. Research when a particular item you want is likely to go on sale. You might even be able to find a friendly sales clerk who will alert you to an upcoming sale. While Black Friday will always be a great dealfinding day for stoic shoppers willing to brave the crowds, Cyber Monday is also a good time to find hassle-free deals. The Monday after the long Thanksgiving weekend traditionally yields great prices on clothing, home goods and electronics for online shoppers. And anyone looking to add some items to their collection of holiday decorations will find the
How to simplify holiday shopping this year best prices - albeit fewer choices - immediately after the holidays. Pick a payment method that pays off for you Consider how you’ll pay for your holiday shopping. Many people like the convenience of credit cards, but then you have to keep track of all of them. Meanwhile some shoppers prefer to carry cash to avoid overspending, but lost or stolen cash is gone forever. Another option that’s both convenient and trustworthy is PayPal. PayPal is there to help alleviate holiday shopping stress and is accepted in-store, online and via the mobile app at some of the major national retailers and local merchants. Shoppers can use PayPal to help avoid long lines, receive special offers based on their location, and pay quickly online, in-store and when dining at participating locations.
Be utterly shameless Whatever will make holiday shopping easier and more enjoyable for you, do it shamelessly. If it’s easiest to buy gift cards for everyone on your list, have at it; virtually every online and brick-and-mortar retailer now offers gift cards. PayPal offers a select few merchant’s digital gift cards, too. With your smartphone, you can now maximize your time and schedule to purchase and send a gift card at a later date or instantly for a last minute gift. You can even buy them from websites that sell gift cards from a variety of merchants, and grocery stores generally have a display dedicated to gift cards. Put them in a pretty package or simply hand them over in an envelope, gift cards remain one of the most-desired holiday gifts. Be shameless about negotiating and taking advantage of shopping incentives like free shipping. While many online retailers already offer free shipping on holiday orders, you have nothing to lose by asking for it if a merchant doesn’t offer it.
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One in five children in America go to bed hungry - learn how you can help Youth hunger activist helps rally America to share time, food, or a meal with a family in need (BPT) - You may consider child hunger to be a world away problem, however, the reality is there are 16 million children right here in America who are faced with hunger. That’s one in five children who don’t know where their next meal will come from. When you think about that statistic, one of these children can easily be your own neighbor or even your child’s best friend. Unilever Project Sunlight, an initiative focused on encouraging people to create a brighter future for children, is rallying people nationwide to “Share A Meal” to turn the tables on child hunger in America. Awardwinning filmmaker, Patrick Creadon, joined the effort and created a four-minute documentary “Going to Bed Hungry: The Changing Face of Child Hunger,” that takes an inspiring look at child hunger in America as told through stories of real families faced with the issue. Creadon notes, “Going beyond donating - to sharing a meal or a moment of support - truly underscores that this is an issue that touches us all in every community in every pocket of this country. These are our children.” Whether it’s sharing a meal, donating time or money, volunteering, or deciding to learn more - small steps can make a difference when multiplied over time to help end child hunger and build a brighter future for children. Proving that no one is too young to do their part is hunger activist Joshua Williams. At age five and with just $20, Williams created Joshua’s Heart Foundation with a goal to stomp out hunger one community at a time. Now 13 years old, Williams and his 14 everythinglake.com
organization distribute food to about 50 families each week and have delivered more than 650,000 pounds of food to date. “I started my foundation because I didn’t want to see people go hungry,” says Williams. “Now, eight years later, I’m mentoring other kids to join in the fight against child hunger and teaming up with Unilever Project Sunlight to get even more people involved in the cause.” Here are just a few suggestions on how you can get involved and make a difference: * Help a family in your neighborhood: Share a meal with a neighbor. A simple dinner party, or even packing an extra lunch for your child to take to school, can go a long way. * Partner with local organizations: Tap local community organizations to find opportunities to coordinate an event or volunteer your time. * Coordinate with your local food bank: Get in touch with a local food bank in your area to help collect donations or even or host your own local food drive. Continued on page 30
Lake County Events Lady of the Lakes Renaissance Faire When: Saturday, November 01, 2014 - Sunday, November 02, 2014 Friday, November 07, 2014 - Sunday, November 09, 2014
35th Annual Montverde Day When: Saturday, November 08, 2014
Time: 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Where: Town of Montverde / Kirk Park 17436 Division St., Montverde
Where: Lake Idamere, Tavares Cost: $15 adult, $10 Child Description: Celtic music, period comedians,human chess matches and full armour jousting come to life in the re-enactment of 16th century England. Renew vows in a handfasting ceremony. Over 60 artisans can be found in the forest filled with fantasy food and fun. 4th Annual Taste of South Lake & Business Expo When: Thursday, November 06, 2014 Time: 5 - 8:30 p.m.
Time: 8 a.m. - 6 p.m.
Cost: Festival Free / Carnival $12 and up Description: Even features 140 food,craft and art vendors, free parking, raffles throughout the day, train and pony rides and live entertainment. A Carnival is provided by Sunshine Amusements for a day of fun for the whole family.
Looking Good. PROFESSIONAL • LOCAL • COMPETITIVE
Where: Clermont Waterfront Park 100 Third St., Clermont Cost: $20 in advance, $25 day of Description: The South Lake Chamber of Commerce is proud to present a community event that showcases local businesses and restaurants along with entertainment.
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Lake County Events
Mount Dora Scottish Highland Festival When: Saturday, November 08, 2014
Leesburg Main Street Christmas Stroll When: Friday, November 28, 2014
Time: 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Time: 6 p.m. - 9 a.m.
Where: Gilbert Park 310 S. Tremain St., Mount Dora
Where: Main Street, Leesburg
Cost: Free Description: Highland athletics, Scottish music, dance, border collies demo, Scottish heritage tents, Scottish vendors, food and beverages. Craft Beer, Wine & Food Festival When: Friday, November 21, 2014
Cost: Free Description: Experience an enchanted evening as Leesburg transforms into a magical Christmas wonderland. There will be real snow! Stroll through the streets of historic Leesburg and see an array of lights, browse through quaint stores and enjoy Dickens Carolers.
Time: 6 - 10 p.m. Where: Venetian Gardens , Leesburg Cost: $25 in advance; $35 at gate Description: Stroll through Venetian Gardens in Leesburg and sample a wide variety of craft beers and select wines from around the world. Event will feature live music. Contact: Call Cat Reel at 352-365-0053.
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Make a grand entrance:
simple ideas to refresh your entryway
(BPT) - Most people enter their home through the garage or backdoor, forgetting how the front entrance looks to neighbors and guests. Your front door is often the first thing others notice about your home. That’s why it’s key to make a positive first impression. How to create an inviting entrance Transform your home’s curb appeal with a new front door. With so many new entry door systems to choose from, ranging from single doors, to double-door options, to those accented with decorative glass, or transoms and sidelights, it’s easy to find one that fits your budget and your style. Pella offers stylish wood, fiberglass or steel options. Choose from ENERGY STAR-qualified design options to create a distinctive look, whether you’re building a new home, remodeling, or simply replacing an old door.
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Pick a standout color for your front door Sticking with your door? A fresh coat of paint will do wonders. Try a bold color to brighten a neutral color scheme. Pick a color that coordinates with your home’s exterior, but
dare to be bold with color contrast to add eye appeal. Update your hardware Why stop with a fresh coat of paint? Refresh old doors with new hardware. Choose handles and door knockers that complement your home’s exterior design. Pella offers hardware in a variety of finishes, to instantly upgrade exterior doors. Replace broken or damaged items Replace broken light fixtures, burned out bulbs and worn out weather-stripping on exterior doors. Pitch that faded wreath, worn out mat, and dead plants, and instead, add a bright new welcome mat and eye-catching seasonal decorations.
Make a grand entrance:
simple ideas to refresh your entryway Clean up, accent with contrast Use a little elbow grease and ammoniafree, vinegar-based glass cleaner to wash the windows. Wipe down window and door frames and sweep sills with a dry paint brush or
vacuum to remove dirt. See pella.com/ news for tips on cleaning windows and doors.
Fill flower boxes or containers with boldly-colored plants to accent your front door. If you’ve painted your door red, plant red and white or red and purple flowers to create a designer look. Or if you’re keen on green doors, try purple or orange flowers for contrast. Illuminate your walkway
overgrown shrubs and trees. Keep plant material trimmed several feet away from your home to minimize damage from wind or insects, and help eliminate a place for prowlers to lurk. Keep your porch and steps clear of clutter and create container gardens to accent your entry. Fill decorative containers with plants that accent your home’s color scheme, front door and landscape design. Visit Pella Windows and Doors on Pinterest and Houzz for more design inspiration and Pella. com/news to connect with your local Pella representative for ideas on how to transform the look and comfort of your home inside and out.
Make it easy for others to see the way to your front door at night. Transform and illuminate walkways with easy-toinstall solar lights. Stake them in the ground positioned so solar cells get enough southern exposure for sunlight to recharge nightlights during the day. Trim bushes, create great container gardens Landscaping should accent your home, not dominate it. Keep bushes below the bottom sill of your windows to improve your view. Trim or replace
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Ethical hackers combat cyber criminals to boost public safety (BPT) - Home Depot announced that personal financial information from 56 million credit and debit cards was at risk following a data security breach in September. Americans were still reeling from the Heartbleed bug, which compromised the security of some of the country’s largest companies in April 2014. Today cyber hacking - a crime that exploits technology to compromise personal information - is all too familiar.
organizations already employ ethical hackers to test applications before they are deployed. Smaller organizations typically outsource ethical hacking periodically to check their systems.
In an increasingly digital world, financial losses from cybercrime will continue to rise. Experts estimate cybercrime leads to global financial losses of at least $375 billion annually, according to a 2014 Intel Security report. How do businesses strengthen protection against cyber criminals? They beat them at their own game by employing ethical hackers. Cyber security expert Dr. Karmaveer Koonjbearry, professor in the Colleges of Business & Management, Engineering & Information Sciences and Health Sciences at DeVry University, explains how hacking can be used for good. What is ethical hacking? Ethical hacking is a legal, authorized process to identify security vulnerabilities in computer systems. Professional ethical hackers identify unnecessary open ports and backdoors that malicious hackers could potentially infiltrate to access files, credit card and Social Security numbers or other personal information. Ethical hackers make recommendations to large companies on how to mitigate such vulnerabilities. Where do ethical hackers work? Jobs for ethical hackers are expected to increase as organizations seek to strengthen their Internet security. Many large 20 everythinglake.com
What training is available for someone who wants to become an ethical hacker? Degree programs in computer information systems and network and communications management can prepare students well for future careers in ethical hacking. The International Council of Electronic Commerce Consultants (EC-Council) offers a Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH) course to help professionals develop the skills required and prepare for the EC-Council CEH Certification exam. Continued on page 30
Small businesses: Check tax forms for errors to avoid fines for 2014 (BPT) - For many small businesses, tax form filing season can be one of the most dreaded times of the year. But with the winter months quickly approaching, there is one simple step that can save you and your business headache, heartache (and money): doublecheck all reporting documents and deadlines. While checking these easy-to-find facts seems like a simple thing to do, it is one of the most neglected actions among small- to midsized companies. It is vital to double-check the information on tax forms for accuracy, while also making yourself aware of all year-end deadlines to prevent fines or other penalties. Going by what you did last year is never enough, as forms, deadlines and regulations can change in subtle ways. Raising the stakes, in recent years, the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) has increased penalties for misfiled or late tax forms. As a result, it’s essential to be vigilant in assembling and reviewing reporting documents. Re-reading those forms and setting reminders may be the easy fix that saves your business time, money and aggravation. “Small-business leaders have enough stress in their daily lives, the last thing they need is to wonder after the fact if they have complied with all deadlines and regulations,” says Janice Krueger, a tax and reporting expert at Greatland, one of the country’s leading providers of W-2 and 1099 products for business. “A recent study revealed that 43 percent of filers are concerned about being fined by the IRS for not complying with new rules or regulations when reporting. We want to help alleviate those concerns by informing taxpayers about filing requirements and deadlines, along with the ramifications of errors, late filings and failure to file.” Many 1099 and W-2 reporting penalties have increased over the past few years and it is critical that businesses file and complete
all wage and income filings on time. Here is a list of filing penalties for W-2 and 1099 forms Greatland believes taxpayers should be aware of this season: * The penalty for failing to file accurate information on returns is $60 per return * The maximum failure-to-file penalty is $1.5 million. * If returns are filed within 30 days after the due date, the penalty is $30 per return. * The maximum penalty for organizations that issue returns within 30 days is $250,000. * The penalty for filing returns more than 30 days after the due date, but before Aug. 1 is $60 per return. * The maximum penalty issuing returns more than 30 days past the due date, but before Aug. 1 is $500,000. * Failure to file information returns or if filed after Aug. 1 results in a fine of $100 per return. For small businesses, defined as organizations with annual gross receipts of $5 million or less for the three most recent tax years: * The maximum penalty for organizations that issue returns within 30 days after the due date is $75,000. * The maximum penalty for organizations that issue returns more than 30 days past the due date, but before Aug. 1 is $200,000. * The maximum consequence for small businesses that fail to file or file after Aug. 1 is $500,000.
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A cut above the rest: How to make the perfect holiday cookie
The cookie that makes everyone merry (BPT) - Many of our fondest childhood memories consist of spending time with friends and family, baking delicious holiday cookies and eyeing the beautifully wrapped presents under the tree. Embrace nostalgia and create the perfect holiday cookie that tastes delicious and is easy to decorate. Instead of displaying a gingerbread house, cut sugar cookies using some snowman, tree and star cookie cutters to set up a festive and tasty holiday scene. Scatter some coconut shavings or crinkled strips of paper for snow and place holiday candies behind the cookies, so they stand up all night long. When making holiday cookies, remember to:
* Remove cookies from the oven a few minutes early, as they will continue to cook on the sheet. * Let the cookies cool completely before you begin to ice them. Try this recipe to make three dozen perfect holiday cookies, using Nielsen-Massey vanilla and peppermint extracts to provide a completely unique flavor your entire family will enjoy. Classic Holiday Sugar Cookies Ingredients 3 cups all-purpose flour 2 teaspoons baking powder
* Cream the butter and vanilla together. Doing this beforehand will encapsulate the vanilla and prevent flavor loss.
3/4 teaspoon salt
* Chill the dough in the fridge before shaping it. This will make for a softer, moister cookie that is less likely to spread when baking.
1 cup superfine sugar (purchase at store or process granulated sugar for about 20 seconds in a food processor)
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1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
A cut above the rest: How to make the perfect holiday cookie 2 tablespoons heavy whipping cream 3 1/4 teaspoons Nielsen-Massey Madagascar Bourbon Pure Vanilla Extract 1 teaspoon Nielsen-Massey Pure Peppermint Extract 2 eggs 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar (for dusting work surface) 1/4 cup all-purpose flour (for dusting work surface) Directions Position oven rack in the center of oven and preheat to 350 F. Line two large, heavy lightcolored baking sheets with parchment paper; set aside. In a medium bowl, whisk flour, baking powder and salt until blended; set aside. In a large mixing bowl, add butter, sugar, cream, vanilla and peppermint extracts; beat with a handheld mixer on medium speed until fluffy, which should take about two minutes. Scrape the sides of the bowl as needed. Reduce speed to medium-low; add eggs one at a time and beat after each addition. Using a rubber spatula, fold in the dry ingredients one half at a time. Divide dough into two even pieces, then press each piece into a disk shape. Wrap them tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for one hour. Dough should be cool and firm but easy to work with. In a small bowl, whisk confectioners’ sugar and flour until blended; set aside. Working with one piece of dough at a time, place on a clean, dusted surface. Roll dough to about 1/8-inch thickness. Use cookie cutters to cut shapes and transfer with a thin offset metal spatula
to prepared cookie sheets. For even baking, do not overcrowd cookies. Gather remaining dough, cover with plastic and chill. Continue with second chilled dough. For best results, bake one sheet pan at a time until done, which should take about 10 minutes; remove and place cookies on wire racks to cool. Decorate and store in an airtight container. Peppermint Glaze and Peppermint Piping Icing 1 1/4 cups confectioners’ sugar 1 tablespoon meringue powder 2 tablespoons water 1/2 teaspoon Nielsen-Massey Pure Peppermint Extract (may substitute with Nielsen-Massey Madagascar Bourbon Pure Vanilla Extract) Variety gel food colors Directions In a small bowl, whisk together sugar and meringue powder. Add water and peppermint extract, stir until smooth. Glaze cookies in desired colors and set aside to dry before piping. For the piping icing, remake the glaze recipe and add additional confectioners’ sugar, one tablespoon at a time until desired consistency is reached. Divide icing into small bowls; add desired gel colors. Select pastry tips, prepare pastry bags and creatively pipe icing onto glazed cookies.
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How to build your nest egg and ensure it lasts throughout retirement (BPT) - As you approach retirement, are you feeling good about your finances? Kudos to you if you feel comfortable with the amount you’ve saved. Now it’s time to start thinking about how you will manage your savings so it provides you with income throughout your retirement years. “Outliving retirement savings is a significant concern for Americans,” says Jennifer Putney, vice president of Total Retirement Solutions for Prudential Retirement. “In a recent survey, Prudential Retirement found that 71 percent of respondents fear they won’t have enough money to last a lifetime, and just one in five is highly confident they’ll have sufficient retirement income. But even those who have saved well and are confident about their money need a formal plan to help them transition from working and accumulating to retired and taking distributions from savings.” Ten thousand older workers reach retirement age every day, and many will be unprepared for retirement. Nineteen percent of workers 55 and older have account balances of $100,000 to $249,000, and just 23 percent have saved $250,000 or more, according to the latest research from the Employee Benefit Research Institute (EBRI). “Typically, we advise clients to save 10 percent to 15 percent of every paycheck for retirement, and that they start saving early,” Putney says. “The EBRI research indicates many Americans aren’t saving that much.” Retirees face many challenges when trying to save enough money to last throughout their lifetime. Americans are living longer, markets are volatile, inflation may occur and current investments may fall short. All these factors can add up to an income shortfall during retirement. Putney and Prudential offer some tips for workers approaching retirement: * Educational and motivational information is widely
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available online to help with retirement planning. Prudential offers websites, Preparewithpru.com, which provide valuable information about saving for retirement and bringyourchallenges.com that illustrates five common behaviors that can get in the way of successful retirement planning. * Take advantage of everything available to you, including any financial counseling offered by your employer or a plan administrator. Maximize contributions to your workplace-based plan or IRA, and don’t forget to take advantage of IRS-allowed catch-up contributions if you’re 50 or older. * Develop a formal transition plan. Your lifestyle will change significantly when you move from actively earning a paycheck to living in retirement, and your income will need to grow in a different way. An advisor can help you understand how to manage your savings and spending during retirement, and how to keep your savings growing to generate continued income. * Consider an in-plan guaranteed retirement income option if your employer offers one with your retirement plan. This option can help to ensure you’ll have income during retirement, no matter what other spending or investment decisions you make.
Trend-setting gifts for the women on your holiday shopping list (BPT) - Gift-giving doesn’t come naturally to everyone. If you’re struggling to find the perfect present, or if you just need some inspiration, Los Angeles-based celebrity stylist Lawrence VonRompf has tips to help you please all the women on your holiday shopping list. What makes a great gift? - A little pampering goes a long way. Put together a sampling of her favorite bath and body products and fragrances and personalize it to show you put thought into the gift. For example, include a monogrammed item like a scented candle or put all the products in a monogrammed gift box. For the fashionista who has everything - Don’t waste time and money trying to find the latest and greatest in style - she probably already has it. Instead, VonRumpf suggests enhancing her collection with nail polish or lipstick in the season’s hottest colors and shades. “Nail polishes make great gifts because the unique colors add a personal touch,” he says. “I love the colors in the Limited-Edition Mary Kay At Play Hail to the Nails Mini Nail Trio for this season. On the New York Fashion Week runways, navy blue was clearly the new black and Mary Kay’s nail lacquer in Inky Blue aligns perfectly with this trend!” Match her personality - It’s easier to find the right gift if you know her tastes in fashion, style, music or even favorite colors, VonRumpf says. Also consider her interests - would she prefer a spa day or a camping trip? A good rule of thumb is to choose a gift she wouldn’t expect or purchase herself. For the woman who does everything Moms are the epitome of hardworking women and deserve a little “me” time. Surprise her - or another under appreciated woman in your lifewith a pampering gift to make her feel special
and loved. “I’d like to give my mom two things: a chance to unwind and time we can spend together. My favorite product for her is the Limited-Edition Mary Kay Pomegranate Satin Hands Pampering Set,” VonRumpf says. “For a personal touch, pair the set with a gift card or a trip to her favorite nail salon and get a manicure together.” Under the mistletoe - Whether it’s a budding romance or a long-term relationship, surprise her with something thoughtful and personal. A scented gift works perfectly, as it offers a touch of personality and will also remind her of you every time she smells it. “Mary Kay’s Limited-Edition Winter Wishes Fragrance Wand has citrus, jasmine and snow apple notes, so it is festive for the season but also smells great on anyone,” says VonRumpf. “The fragrance wand is easy to travel with, so for a truly memorable gift, I suggest pairing it with a little weekend getaway for you and that special someone.” With these tips, finding the perfect gif t for the lucky ladies on your list will be a cinch this holiday season. So get your shopping done early, relax and wait to see the look of joy on her face when she opens your present! everythinglake.com 25
Deadly diseases you should be more concerned about than Ebola
(BPT) - Ebola has been one of the top headlines in the nation in the second half of 2014, resulting in much discussion among government leaders, community leaders and health-care officials as they determine how to test for and treat the disease on U.S. soil. What many of these headlines are missing are the other deadly superbugs already prevalent in hospitals, health care and daycare settings across the country - as well as many communities. Methicillin-resistant staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) and other bacteria are found in many public locations and are often resistant to antibiotics. In the United States, 23,000 deaths are attributed to health care-associated infections annually,
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according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Zenosense, Inc. (OTCQB: ZENO) is developing a health care and medical diagnostic tool using scent-detection technology inspired by NASA to help health-care staff quickly identify early signs of MRSA and other deadly bacteria. This technology - using scent to identify the bacteria in a room - can help prevent vulnerable patients from being exposed to the bacteria. This public company is also working on a device that will help detect early signs of lung cancer, following the same concept. The anticipated device will be able to smell signs of cancer when a patient blows into it.
Deadly diseases you should be more concerned about than Ebola Staph bacteria is found on the skin or in the noses of many Americans, but it isn’t harmful or resistant to antibiotics. Only about 2 percent of the American population has MRSA staph bacteria on the skin. It becomes deadly, however, when this bacterium is able to enter the body via a wound and attack a person’s already-weakened immune system. MRSA and other superbugs become resistant to antibiotics due to the high exposure they have to antibiotics. The CDC advises doctors should only prescribe antibiotics when a patient is suffering from an infection. The plan is for Zenosense’s device to help medical staff determine whether MRSA and other superbugs are present in a room by embedding the device on ID badges or name badges, which are already worn by hospital staff. A warning beep or blinking light will
alert the staff member, who can then contact a cleaning crew to remove the bacteria before it could potentially infect a patient. These devices using scent technology to detect bacteria and lung cancer are still under development. Investors have the opportunity to become involved in supporting the development of this latest medical breakthrough, as Zenosense is a publicly traded company. Ebola is capturing media attention, but Americans shouldn’t forget there are plenty of other deadly diseases people are exposed to in their communities.
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The do’s and don’ts of DIY beauty (BPT) - The natural beauty movement is gaining momentum with more women seeking all-natural ways to look and feel fabulous. A big part of this trend is creating beauty products at home. The benefits are many: products can be completely customized, women know exactly what ingredients are used, and oftentimes, they save themselves money, too. If you want to join the DIY beauty movement, consider these top do’s and don’ts from the experts at Aura Cacia:
Don’t forget to use pantry staples
Do develop your own body spray Not only are perfumes costly, they are filled with chemicals. By using essential oils, you can create natural body spray in minutes. For an amazing DIY Patchouli and Rose Body Spray, simply mix these ingredients in a small spray bottle or atomizer: 4 ounces purified water 19 drops bergamot BF essential oil 19 drops patchouli essential oil 19 drops lemon essential oil 3 drops rose otto or rose absolute essential oil
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Some of the most commonly used ingredients in DIY beauty recipes can be found right in your kitchen cabinet. Learn more about pantry staples like sea salt, oats, honey, eggs, course sugar and coconut oil, and how your beauty recipes can benefit from them. Do learn more about essential oils Essential oils are the highly concentrated aromatic essences of plants. They are 75 to 100 times more concentrated than the oils in dried herbs. Using essential oils in DIY beauty products is a wonderful option, but they must be treated with safety and respect. Read up on essential oil basics and safety at www. auracacia.com.
The do’s and don’ts of DIY beauty Do make health and beauty essentials for the whole family DIY health and beauty isn’t just for women, the entire family can benefit from natural products you can make in your own home. From luxurious body soaks for mom and back rub blends for dad, to baby balms and infant message oils, there are many easy-to-follow recipes at www.auracacia.com.
Don’t use disposable containers DIY beauty embraces the idea of natural wellness not only for the family, but also for the Earth. Always opt for reusable containers when possible, as they reduce waste and maintain the integrity of homemade products longer. BPA-free plastic containers and glass alternatives are both great options you can use again and again.
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One in five children in America * Host a virtual food drive: Unable to get out of the house? You can create your very own personal food drive online to share with friends, family and colleagues for contributions. * Donate: Consider donating to a child hunger relief organization. * Lend your voice: Inspire others by revealing why you’re helping to end child hunger on social media using, “I #ShareAMeal because...” Go to ProjectSunlight.us to watch the documentary and learn even more ways to get involved.
Ethical hackers combat cyber What soft skills should ethical hackers possess? Ethical hackers must have strong communication skills to explain system vulnerabilities constructively to corporate leadership, Web developers and application owners. They must be efficient yet thorough, and be prepared to work with some people who may not welcome the additional work required to secure their systems. Are there any risks in ethical hacking? Ethical hackers develop extensive knowledge about an organization’s systems, safeguards, vulnerabilities and practices. This information, in the wrong hands, can have disastrous consequences. It is critical that organizations select ethical hackers with the right background and ethical disposition. A “bad” ethical hacker can have significant consequences on an organization’s bottom line and reputation.
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