September 2015
Meet Chef Del Rio What’s Happening In Lake County Lake Louise State Park
Natural Balance Natural Choice Blue Buffalo OVER 30 Brands of Dog Foods Pet, Lawn & Garden, Wild Bird Feed, Supplies
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Monday - Saturday 9am to 7pm, Sunday 10am to 5pm
INSIDE THIS ISSUE 7 Fashion: Beat The Clock Beauty From Head To Toe
8-9 At Lake County Schools
12-13 Career college or community college? Deciding which is right for you
20-22 Health & Fitness: Put Your Pride Aside
23 Out & About: Lake Louise State Park
24-25 7 effective habits to prevent hearing loss
14-15 The new SAT:
10-11 Meet and What students Chef Delneed Rio to know parents to prepare
26-27 Are You Prepared To Take A 30 Year Vacation?
16-17 Lake County’s September Events
18-19 La Cabana Mexican Bar & Grill
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28-30 Make Ahead Appetizers Your Guests Will Go Nuts For
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Call 407-697-7933 And Start Seeing Results
from the publisher’s desk Al Asghar Looking through last month’s issue, I realized what fun we had putting it together. I know the kids in the county are saying what is fun about going back to school and I remember when I was a youngster, which was many decades ago, I felt the same way. . This month’s issue was no less fun than last. We covered some great stories in the county and have some new projects that are going to be launched in the next few weeks. We have been testing a new online radio station that is almost done and ready to go. This station is going to have talk radio in the mornings and then music that you love in the afternoon. The station is going to be 24/7 and 365 days of the year. I am looking forward to this. Keep an eye out for its launch.
staff Publisher & Managing Editor
Al Asghar al@everythinglake.com
Design & Layout
Amir Asghar
Photography
Elizabeth Betsy Reed
Contributing Ajay P Writers Al Asghar Amir Asghar Advertising Al Asghar Sales Richard Hartey
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Also, we are bringing in another new product that will help local businesses get more coverage with the folks that live in the county. This is also a few weeks away from launch. I want to thank all the people that send in their feedback every month. I love hearing from you, so keep it coming in. Have a safe and wonderful Labor Day and I will talk to you folks next month. AL ASGHAR EVERYTHING LAKE MAGAZINE www.everythinglake.com www.facebook.com/everythinglake 407-697-7933
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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
fashion
you look and feel your best, with a lot less effort: DIY beach waves Who doesn’t love beach hair? Just because everyday isn’t a vacation doesn’t mean you can’t have freshfrom-the-beach salt-water hair at home. Making sea salt spray in your kitchen is easy and provides that amazing look in no time. Combine hot water (not scalding), sea salt, your favorite hair oil (like coconut or argan), leave-in conditioner and some waterbased gel. Apply generously to towel-dried hair, braid loosely and let it dry. Make this mixture and save it in an old shampoo bottle, so you can use it whenever you’re in to mood for a fast, easy, and fabulous hairstyle. Give yourself a fresh, glowing face Facials can take up to an hour and can be costly. If you’re looking for a simple way to get glowing skin without spending a hefty amount of time and money, try an at-home facial. Start with a gentle, natural exfoliator, like salt or oatmeal. Next, soak a washcloth in warm tap water, wring it out, drape it over your face, and let it sit for a few minutes. This helps open pores. Remove the washcloth and apply your favorite mask, following the manufacturer’s directions for application, duration and removal. After removing the mask, apply a light moisturizer. You will feel fresh, revitalized and your wallet will thank you! Body exfoliator
Beat-The-Clock Beauty Exfoliating your skin removes dead skin cells from skin’s surface, leaving a healthy and glowing From Head To Toe the look. Lack of exfoliation can lead to dull and dry skin. (BPT) - Let’s face it, lack of time is one of the biggest burdens in every woman’s life, especially when it hinders your grooming routine. Think about how much time it can take to get polished: 30 minute pedicure, hour long facial, 40 minute blowout, and viola! You’ve already lost more than two hours. It’s about time (pun intended) to rethink your beauty regimen and go sans salon. The right at-home products can give you the results you want - while dodging the investment of time and money in salon trips. Check out these beautifying at-home shortcuts to help
You don’t need to go to an expert or even buy an expensive product to exfoliate your body. Combine one part olive oil, five parts sea salt, and a lemon together to make the perfect at-home body scrub in seconds!
Keep extra portions of the scrub in a mason jar in your bathroom and use on dry skin before rinsing off in the shower. You will feel refreshed and glowing when you step out! Try these at-home beauty routine time-savers next time you’re in a pinch or are in need of a little extra relaxation. You deserve it!
everythinglake.com 7
at lake county schools Statewide, Best Buddies Florida operates 160 chapters in middle schools, high schools and colleges. The chapter at Tavares Middle School raised $18,497 in support of the Best Buddies Friendship Walk, which has drawn more than 55,000 participants in more than 26 states and raised more than $5 million since it started in 2009. The Tavares Middle School chapter was recognized for its fundraising accomplishments at the Best Buddies 2015 Leadership Conference at Indiana University this summer.
Tavares Middle School earns top recognition for 2015 charitable fundraising efforts TAVARES — Tavares Middle School was recently named the 2015 Best Buddies Middle School Chapter of the Year for Florida and the top Overall School Friendship Walk Team! Best Buddies is a nonprofit organization dedicated to establishing a global volunteer movement that creates opportunities for one-to-one friendships, integrated employment and leadership development for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. “We are so excited to spread the mission for social inclusion,’’ said Michelle Metheny, a Tavares Middle School teacher who works with the chapter. “Our fundraising efforts has helped Best Buddies so Central Florida could open five new chapters in Lake County. Best Buddies not only positively impacts my students with autism, but their peer buddies, too.”
YMCA, Boys & Girls Club to offer after-school enrichment for middle school students TAVARES — The YMCA of Central Florida and the Boys & Girls Club of Lake & Sumter Counties (BGCLSC) will provide after school enrichment programs to students from five Lake County middle schools for the next five years in partnership with Lake County Schools through grant awards from the Florida Department of Education for 21st Century Community Learning Centers. The centers will open this school year at each of the schools. The YMCA will offer free services Mondays
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at lake county schools through Fridays to students from Umatilla, Mount Dora, Tavares and Cecil Gray middle schools on the school campuses. Lake County Schools will provide the transportation and facilities. Students will also receive after-school snacks. The YMCA programs will include summer camps at Mount Dora, Cecil Gray and Umatilla. Students from Clermont Middle School will be served at the Boys & Girls Club site in Clermont. The BGCLSC will provide transportation to their site daily and also offer after school-snacks. The 21st Century Community Learning Centers initiative is a key component of the No Child Left Behind Act. Authorized under federal law, the specific purposes of the centers are to: · Provide opportunities for academic enrichment, including providing tutorial services to help students meet state and local achievement standards in core academic subjects. · Offer students a broad array of additional services, programs and activities that are designed to reinforce and complement the regular academic program of participating students. · Offer families of students served by community learning centers opportunities for literacy and related educational development.
Leesburg, Wildwood schools to share $473,000 STEM grant TAVARES — Lake County Schools has been awarded $473,000 grant to provide intensive training in science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) for teachers during the 201516 school year. The K-12 Math and Science Partnership STEM Grant, awarded by the Florida Department of Education, specifically targets teachers in grades 3 through 12 in Leesburg and in the Wildwood area of Sumter County. The goal is to improve teacher content knowledge tied directly to the Florida Standards for the purpose of creating quality educators and increasing student achievement. Lake County Schools and Sumter District Schools are partners in this project. The two districts share an adjacent boundary that encompasses the Leesburg and Wildwood area feeder patterns, including 11 schools serving more than 9,000 students. All of the schools are in high poverty areas with free and reduced lunch rates above 60 percent. The Lake Schools are Beverly Shores, Fruitland Park, Leesburg, Treadway and Villages elementary; Carver and Oak Park middle; and Leesburg High. The Sumter schools are Wildwood Elementary, South Sumter Middle and Wildwood Middle High. everythinglake.com 9
CHEF DAVE DEL RIO EATON’S BEACH SANDBAR AND GRILL Story by Al Asghar
Our spotlight this month is on Chef Dave Del Rio of Easton’s Beach Sandbar and Grill. Chef hails from Ybor City in Tampa and has been in the restaurant business for over thirty years. Chef Del Rio has created the Florisiana style cooking that combines Cajun, Spanish, Creole and Barbecue. These flavors have provided chef with his own unique flavors.
Where did you get your first start in the kitchen? I was working for Budweiser right out of college when I was about 24 years old. I had a friend ask me to help him in his pizza parlor. The rest was history!
When did you realize that you were going to be a chef? I have always been surrounded by some great cooking. My mom, with her Latin heritage was the first person who really influenced me. As my dad, who was a city official, did BBQ all the time for the city. I found that I was really good at cooking. When did you start getting recognized as a chef? I owned a few restaurants in Tampa. Smoke BBQ and Del Rio Café took my career to the next level. That’s when people recognized my talents and my name got out there. What were the biggest influences of your career? My family would be the first. They are the reason I cook the way I do. I had some local training in Tampa at some renowned restaurants. I also trained under world renowned chef, Warren LeRuth in New Orleans. After that I was the trainer and national consultant at Outback for over twenty years. What is your biggest pet peeve in the kitchen? Whining would be on the top of the list. Not following my recipe would be another. But I have to say, I have a great team in the kitchen. You use a lot of favors in the kitchen, what would you say is you favorite? My food is very flavorful and well seasoned. I like using fresh herbs. Thyme and Rosemary are my favorite. I believe when used properly, they bring the dishes to the next level.
What was your most memorable meal? About ten years ago, I was in Tuscany Italy. The setting was at a vineyard. They had t-bone steaks, rabbits, and all kinds of different pasta dishes. I remember like it was yesterday. What about a favorite cheap meal? Yellow rice and chicken. Hands down! What are your favorite recipes? Gumbo tops the list. I came up with it over the years. After many tweaks over the years, I have finally mastered it. Another one is the Shrimp and Grits. This dish put my restaurant Del Rio Café to the next level. We starting having standing room only and people lined out sit the door. Now these two dishes are really popular here at Eaton’s Beach.
Come On In! 15790 SE 134th Avenue Weirsdale, FL 32195 everythinglake.com 11
Money/Finance file. That means if you legally change your name after you get married, the SSA needs to know about it. To get a Social Security card with your new name, you’ll need to provide proof of identity, such as a marriage certificate, fill out an application and either mail it or deliver it in person to your local SSA office. You’ll want to do this long before you file your income tax return.
Tax tips for newly married couples (BPT) - In most parts of the country, the months of June, August, September and October are the most popular for weddings. Whether recently married or anxiously counting the days until you tie the knot, there are some important tax implications that you and your spouse can’t afford to overlook. “In between the flurry of wedding planning, dress shopping and bridal showers, few engaged couples stop to think about how getting married will affect their income taxes,” explained TaxAct spokesperson, Shaunna Morgan. “While it’s important to understand the tax consequences, keep in mind that you can still do your own taxes. TaxAct, a leading DIY tax solution, asks simple questions about life events like marriage to guide you through the tax implications and help you get all of your deductions to maximize your refund.” Name changes Your name(s) and Social Security number(s) are critical elements of your tax return. Both identifiers must exactly match the information the Social Security Administration (SSA) has on 12 everythinglake.com
New address If you’re moving, remember to report your new address to the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). The fastest way to make the change is to complete Form 8822 available on the agency website at www.irs.gov. New filing status Once you’ve said, “I do,” you’ll have the option to claim one of two filing statuses on your tax return: married filing jointly or married filing separately. If you and your spouse each earn an income, you might consider running the numbers to determine if you have a lower combined tax by filing one way versus the other. Some tax software packages do the calculations for you so it’s easier to make an informed decision when selecting a filing status. TaxAct Deluxe, for example, gives users a Joint vs. Separate Analysis report that does all the calculations so you can see your estimated refund amounts for each filing status. For many couples, married filing jointly results in lower income tax liability. Keep in mind that no matter when in the year you get married, you are considered married for the full year. Even if your big day is December 31, you will have a married status in the eyes of the IRS for the entirety of that tax year.
Money/Finance Affordable Care Act premium tax credit
Changing your tax withholding Any time you have a life change you should revisit your Form W-4. Getting married is definitely one of those times. If both you and your spouse work, you’ll likely have a higher combined income, which may put you into a higher tax bracket. In order to ensure the right amount of tax is withheld from your paycheck, you’ll want to update your Form W-4 to ensure you aren’t having too much or too little tax withheld.
If you or your spouse receive health insurance through a governmentsponsored marketplace and receive advance payments of the premium tax credit to help offset the cost of your premiums, you’ll want to review your coverage after the wedding, and notify the marketplace of your newly married status. Reporting this change will help you avoid having too much or too little premium assistance paid and ultimately, help you steer clear of owing additional money or getting a small refund when you file your taxes. If you elect to keep your coverage “as is,” separate from your spouse, or wish to add your spouse to your coverage, you should notify the marketplace of your special changes in coverage. If you elect to go under your spouse’s health plan, be sure to cancel your marketplace coverage. For more information about the tax impact of marriage, visit www.irs.gov and www.taxact.com/taxinfo.
FOR ALL YOUR “OUT OF THE BOX” REAL ESTATE NEEDS
KAREN RISCINTO, PA
CDPE,CIPS, TRC 352-250-3166 • realestateoutofthebox@gmail.com
everythinglake.com 13
Pets
Will your pet be safe during an emergency? (BPT) - Natural disasters can devastate families and communities in seconds, taking lives and destroying homes and properties. Sadly, pets are under-reported casualties of such disasters. For people who’ve lost everything else, losing or being unable to care for their furry family members can make an already emotionally crippling blow that much worse. “When a disaster occurs, people don’t always know what to do for their pets,” says Gina Gardner, President of the Humane Society of Tulsa. The organization’s HEART Team, which Gardner leads, responded to the devastating 2013 tornado in Moore, Oklahoma, which killed 24 people and caused an estimated $2 billion in
property damage. “One of the most important roles we play is helping victims care for their pets when they have lost everything. When families have lost all they have and you hand them a bag of pet food, the look of gratitude on their faces is overwhelming. They love their pets, and being able to feed and care for them is an important concern victims feel after a disaster.” Following the 2013 incident in Moore, Gardner’s team was able to provide pet food to families through a donation from the Hill’s Pet Nutrition’s Disaster Relief Network. In the past two years, Hill’s network delivered free pet food to more than 60 animal shelters and veterinary clinics across the country in response to natural emergencies, including floods in Colorado, fires in Idaho and Arizona, the mudslide in Washington state, and tornadoes in the central and southern regions of the country, including
Pets Moore, Oklahoma. While summer storms can be notoriously dangerous in many areas of the country, it’s vital for families to be prepared for natural disasters throughout the year. Pet parents can easily prepare to care for their pets during potential emergencies by following these tips from the Hill’s Disaster Relief Network and Hill’s Pet Nutrition: * Create an emergency kit. “Your ‘Pet Emergency Go-Kit’ should be tailored to your pet’s individual needs,” says Dr. Ellen Lowery, Director of U.S. Veterinary and Professional Affairs for Hill’s. “Each kit should include a three-day supply of the pet’s preferred food in a waterproof container, bottled water, a harness and leash, medications and medical records, a list of local veterinarians and animal care organizations, notes on the pet’s feeding routine and any behavioral issues, comfort toys and a blanket.” Consider taking a crate or carrier for smaller animals in the event you’ll be away from home for an extended period. * Include your pet in preparing your family’s emergency plan. For example, if you have to evacuate, who will be responsible for ensuring the dog or cat goes with you? Consider where your pet likes to hide in the house so you can evacuate quickly. * “Microchip your pets or make sure they’re wearing a collar with an ID tag, so that emergency responders can easily identify them and contact you if they become lost,” Lowery recommends. * Display a pet rescue decal on your front door or in a window facing the street so emergency teams will know you have a pet in the house. * Decide in advance where you’ll take your pet if you have to evacuate and the disaster shelter is unable to accept pets. Identify pet-friendly
motels and hotels in the area so you’ll have somewhere to go. * Carry a picture of your pet with you or on your mobile phone in case you become separated. In the wake of Hurricane Katrina, one widely cited report stated that more than 200,000 pets were displaced, and the majority of those pets were never reunited with their families. “Caring for pets during disasters is a way of caring for people,” Dr. Lowery says. The need for aid - and the potential to reunite families with lost pets - endures after the disaster is over, as well. “After the Moore tornado, several stray cats brought to the city shelter were still not claimed after a month,” Gardner recalls. “We selected about a dozen stray cats and brought them to Tulsa for adoption. We routinely scan adoptable pets for a microchip. One of the cats had a chip!” She adds, “We called and a very shocked and excited family answered the phone. The cat had been lost during the storms. The owners drove two hours and arrived at our facility first thing the next morning. They were crying, our staff volunteers were crying ... it was one of the most rewarding and special moments from our Moore experience.”
What’s Happening DESCRIPTION:
The artists in this show take the viewer on separate journeys, through concepts that are realized in wood and in paint. The perfect artistic outcome is achieved through the conceptual journey. CONTACT:
Call Beth Miller at 352383-0880 or email beth@ mountdoracenterforthearts. org.
Steps to Business Ownership WHEN:
Thursday, September 10, 2015 TIME:
Conceptual Journeys WHEN:
Friday, August 14, 2015 - Saturday, August 15, 2015 Monday, August 17, 2015 - Saturday, August 22, 2015 Monday, August 24, 2015 - Saturday, August 29, 2015 Monday, August 31, 2015 - Saturday, September 05, 2015 Monday, September 07, 2015 - Saturday, September 12, 2015 Monday, September 14, 2015 - Saturday, September 19, 2015 Monday, September 21, 2015 - Friday, September 25, 2015 TIME:
10 a.m. - 4 p.m. WHERE:
Mount Dora Center for the Arts Gallery , Mount Dora
1:30 - 4:30 p.m. WHERE:
Lake Sumter State College-Foundation Bldg 9909 US Hwy 441,Leesburg,FL 34748, Leesburg DESCRIPTION:
Do you want to start your own business? This free 3-session workshop addresses the basics of starting and owning a business as well as business planning, marketing, finance and sources of funding. CONTACT:
Call Linda Card at 352-365-3579 or email wcotta@aol.com
29th Annual Central Florida Triathlon & 5K Series #4 WHEN:
Saturday, September 12, 2015 TIME:
3 - 4 p.m. WHERE:
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What’s Happening
Your Lake County
Clermont Waterfront Park 330 3rd St., Clermont
Call Greg at 352-406-6906 or email bonesprort@prodigy.net.
DESCRIPTION:
Nocturnal Migration
Super Fun Sprint, Sprint, and 5K. CONTACT:
WHEN:
Saturday, September 26, 2015 TIME:
Call Sommer Sports at 352-394-1320 or email info@sommersports.com
6 - 9 p.m.
Lady Lake Health & Senior Expo
WHERE:
WHEN:
Saturday, September 12, 2015 TIME:
9 a.m. - 2 p.m.
Green Mountain Scenic Overlook & Trailhead 20700 County Road 455, Ferndale DESCRIPTION:
American Legion Post 347 699 W. Lady Lake Blvd., Lady Lake
Weather permitting, we will listen for nocturnal migrants passing overhead and watch for them passing in front of the moon’s face.
DESCRIPTION:
CONTACT:
WHERE:
Free health screenings, travel and leisure, nutrition, workshops, samples, holistic health, community resources, senior living, bingo, retirement, health & wellness, shopping and more. FREE! 386-860-0092. www. BucklerShows.com.
Call Lake County Parks & Trails at 352-2534950 or email parksandtrails@lakecountyfl. gov. Make Reservation for this Event
CONTACT:
Sunday, September 27, 2015
Call June Font at 386-860-0092 or email bucklershows@yahoo.com
Lake Collect-a-con WHEN:
Saturday, September 19, 2015 TIME:
9 a.m. - 4 p.m. WHERE:
Lake Receptions 4425 North Hwy. 19 A, Mount Dora DESCRIPTION:
Collectibles featuring autographs, sport cards, comic books, movie collectibles and much more. CONTACT:
Wildlife Bike Ride WHEN:
TIME:
9 - 11 a.m. WHERE:
The Pasture Reserve 5144 Lake Erie Road, Groveland DESCRIPTION:
Bring your own bike and head out for some exercise and adventure on this guide ride along grass trails where one might encounter wildlife such as wild turkeys or white-tailed deer. CONTACT:
Call Lake County Parks & Trails at 352-2534950 or email parksandtrails@lakecountyfl. gov. everythinglake.com 17
Good Eats
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Good Eats
LA CABANA MEXICAN BAR & GRILL
2060 S BAY ST, EUSTIS, FL 352-357-4600 I am here in Eustis this month trying one of my favorites, Mexican cuisine. I had heard about this restaurant for a few months and it was time to go try it. And let me tell you it did not let me down.
and experience the authentic Mexican cuisine. Our goal is to give them the best every time they come in. We want them to be part of the family.’ All this talk about food, it was time to try it.
As I walked in, I was greeted by the hostess. She made me feel at home right away. I was looking around and noticed that the restaurant was decorated with an Authentic Mexican flare. The lighting was just right and the atmosphere bubbling.
I started with their Crispy Tacos. These are their specials every Tuesday. The shells had a got crunch to them. The beef was well seasoned and the topping complimented them well.
“We started in 2000 with a restaurant in Deland” stated owner Horaeio Dominguez. “This was a small establishment with five tables. As we grew we noticed that there were a lot of people who were coming in from the Eustis/ Mt Dora area to come dine with us. That demand for our food made us open this location in the summer of 2014. A year later, I am so happy that we did.” “Our food is the kind of authentic Mexican food found in and around Mexico City. My family has been in the restaurant business for years and it was only appropriate that I followed in their footsteps.” “My mom herself runs the kitchen. She holds the highest standard in there. Everything is freshly made with supplies bought from local and regional vendors. We want people to come in
Next came the combination of Chimichanga and Enchiladas. This dish was of the chart. Authentic Mexican at its best. The meat was tender and well seasoned. It had the right amount of heat and the rice and beans complimented it real well. Well done! Last but not least, was the Maya Delight. This dish is made with grilled chicken breast with grilled shrimp. It was topped with a homemade queso blanco sauce. This dish reminded me of the few times I had been in Mexico and the food there. It was real good. This is what makes people come back for more. My experience at La Cabana was a good, warm one. The service and the food were off the hook. I will definitely be back for more. Here is another example of good eats in Lake County. everythinglake.com 19
Health & Fitness
Put Your Pride Aside: Olympic Medalist Suffers From a Common Side Effect of Using Opioid Medication for Chronic Pain (BPT) - Six-time Olympic medalist Jackie JoynerKersee is a world heptathlon record holder, Sports Illustrated’s “Greatest Female Athlete of the 20th Century,” a philanthropist working to instill a love of sports in local communities and a woman used to living life at full throttle. In fact, the only thing that slowed her down was knee and ankle pain caused by a grueling training regime and years of Olympic competition. Like millions of other Americans, she was prescribed opioid medication to treat her chronic pain. While she was on 20 everythinglake.com
opioid therapy, she experienced opioid-induced constipation (OIC), a side effect she described to be very uncomfortable. Joyner-Kersee is not only speaking out on behalf of others with OIC, but also encouraging them to put their pride aside and share their experience with their family, friends and healthcare provider. “After taking prescribed opioid treatment, I became constipated frequently - but I tried to ignore it,” says Joyner-Kersee. “As an athlete, you try to control everything you do, so when something is not right in your body, it’s hard to come to terms with it.” Most importantly, constipation prevented Joyner-Kersee from doing what she loves; she found herself becoming sluggish and doing less physically because of the pain and discomfort she was experiencing.
Health & Fitness Despite being in pain, feeling bloated and unlike her regular self, Joyner-Kersee says she didn’t mention anything to family, friends or her healthcare provider because she was in denial and felt embarrassed. “Constipation isn’t exactly a conversation starter or something I wanted to talk about,” Joyner-Kersee says. “But it was taking such an emotional and physical toll that I finally had to work up the nerve to talk to my physician. It wasn’t until then that I learned I was experiencing what is called opioid-induced constipation or OIC.” Symptoms of OIC may include reduced bowel movement frequency, straining, incomplete evacuation, and hard or dry stools. People suffering from opioid-induced constipation may also complain that they feel bloated or are experiencing abdominal pain and have difficulty producing a bowel movement. Sufferers may also feel like they need to use the bathroom but are unable to pass a bowel movement.
After receiving her diagnosis, Joyner-Kersee did her own research. “I learned that OIC is its own type of constipation and can last for as long as I take opioids for my pain. Once I understood the condition, I talked to my physician about my treatment options,” Joyner-Kersee says. She also suggests opening up to friends and family about OIC. “I understand that OIC may not be a topic people feel comfortable discussing, but my advice is to put your pride aside and talk to your physician. With something as personal as OIC, it really helps me to have a support system and people I can talk to.” If you think that you or someone you care for may be suffering from OIC, talk to your healthcare provider. For more information about OIC, visit www.ohisee.com. Through personal stories, expert advice, and educational resources, this community aims to help OIC sufferers and their caregivers better understand and manage this uncomfortable condition.
everythinglake.com 21
out and about
Lake Louise State Park 7305 U.S. Highway 27, Clermont, FL 34714 \(352) 394-3969 A short drive from Orlando, this 4,500 acre park is noted for its beautiful lakes, rolling hills and scenic landscapes. Lake Louisa, the largest in a chain of 13 lakes, is designated as an Outstanding Florida Water Way. Lake Louisa, Hammond Lake and Dixie Lake, the park’s most accessible lakes, provide opportunities for fishing, canoeing and kayaking. The park is home to 11 distinct natural plant communities and lies within the eastern most boundary of the Green Swamp (Area of Critical State Concern) and the northern most boundary of the Lake Wales Ridge. The presence of white-tail deer, bobcat, fox squirrel, raccoon, gopher tortoise, bald eagle, osprey and cypress fringed lakes makes nature study a great pastime. The park is located on US Highway 27, seven miles south of State Road 50 in Clermont.
out and about
A short drive from Orlando, this 4,500 acre park is noted for its beautiful lakes, rolling hills and scenic landscapes. Lake Louisa, the largest in a chain of 13 lakes, is designated as an Outstanding Florida Water Way. Lake Louisa, Hammond Lake and Dixie Lake, the park’s most accessible lakes, provide opportunities for fishing, canoeing and kayaking. The park is home to 11 distinct natural plant communities and lies within the eastern most boundary of the Green Swamp (Area of Critical State Concern) and the northern most boundary of the Lake Wales Ridge. The presence of white-tail deer, bobcat, fox squirrel, raccoon, gopher tortoise, bald eagle, osprey and cypress fringed lakes makes nature study a great pastime. The park is located on US Highway 27, seven miles south of State Road 50 in Clermont.
everythinglake.com 23
7 effective habits to prevent hearing loss firearms. Buy quieter products (compare dB ratings advertised on the products-the smaller the better). 2. iPod/MP3 players
(BPT) - Hearing loss is common, but the perception that hearing loss is only caused by aging is incorrect. More than 36 million Americans have hearing loss. It is considered the third most chronic condition among the elderly, according to the Hearing Loss Association of America. Changing lifestyle habits and treating a variety of health conditions can help prevent hearing loss. Here are seven healthy habits that may help prevent or delay the onset of hearing loss. 1. Noise Noise-induced hearing loss is the most common yet preventable cause of hearing loss. Exposure to dangerous levels of noise can occur at work, home and in many recreational activities. Wear ear plugs or muffs when operating loud equipment (i.e. lawn mowers, power saws, leaf blower, etc.) or when using 24 everythinglake.com
Listening to MP3 players at dangerous levels can cause permanent hearing loss. You can download apps to ensure noise exposure through your iPod does not exceed dangerous decibel levels. “Volume Limit” is a switch in the “settings” section of your iPhone or iPod to make sure that your hearing is protected. This allows you to set a maximum level for the volume output of the media player and even put a four-digit code on it to keep it fixed.
3. Diabetes The National Institute of Health (NIH) found hearing loss is twice as common in people with diabetes. Furthermore, of the 79 million adults with pre-diabetes, the rate of hearing loss is 30 percent higher than in those with normal blood sugar levels. Moderate weight loss, eating healthy and exercise can delay or prevent Type 2 diabetes among adults atrisk for diabetes. 4. Smoking Smoking is a risk factor for hearing loss. Smokers are nearly 70 percent more likely than nonsmokers to suffer hearing loss. Exposure to second-hand tobacco smoke almost doubles the risk of hearing loss
7 effective habits to prevent hearing loss among adolescents. Studies show that smoking, age and noise exposure together increase the risk for hearing loss more than each of these factors alone. 5. Cardiovascular disease Not only does exercise help to prevent Type 2 diabetes, but cardiovascular health and hearing health appear to be connected. Growing evidence suggests a link between hearing loss and poor cardiovascular health. 6. Earwax (cerumen) Don’t swab your ear canals. Cerumen cleans and lubricates the skin of the ear canal and provides protection from bacteria, fungi, insects and water. Attempting to remove cerumen or cleaning the ear canal with a cotton swab tends to push earwax deeper into the ear canal. Excess or impacted cerumen can press against the eardrum and/or occlude the external auditory canal resulting in hearing loss.
7. See an audiologist for a base line hearing test Susceptibility to hearing loss is often undiagnosed and unrecognized. If hearing devices are recommended, wear them. “There is no reason to miss out on what could be the most important conversation in your life. Stay connected with your friends and family,” says Dr. Kathy Landau Goodman, chair of the Audiology Awareness Campaign. Goodman says to remember every ear is unique, every brain deciphers sound differently, so there is no one size that fits all. What works for a friend may not work for you. It is important to work with a doctor of audiology to help you find the right solution for your individual hearing needs. The Audiology Awareness Campaign, a non-profit foundation aimed at providing the public with information on hearing loss, is sponsoring the eighth annual “Listen Up America” week, National Hearing Screening week, Oct. 12-16, 2015, where audiologists will offer free hearing screenings
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Are You Prepared to Take a 30Year Vacation? (BPT) - Summer is vacation season. However, before the week or two of fun begins comes the hard part - planning and packing. There are so many things to consider depending on the type of experience a person wants to have and what they need to bring along. Now picture preparing for a 30-year vacation. As life expectancy increases, that’s essentially what retirement could be for many Americans. Their “luggage” or financial strategy has to accommodate routine expenses like food and shelter, healthcare costs, lifestyle needs and perhaps even a legacy for loved ones or favorite philanthropy. Yet research shows that when it comes to retirement planning, many Americans are flying blind. According to Northwestern Mutual’s 2015 Planning & Progress Study, while not having sufficient savings to retire comfortably is a leading financial fear, more than a third of adults don’t even know how much income they need to retire. The lack of confidence in financial preparedness may explain why Americans are increasingly delaying retirement involuntarily. The same study found that among those individuals expecting to work beyond the traditional retirement age of 65, six in 10 believe it will be from necessity rather than choice. “Retirement should be synonymous with personal fulfillment - whether that means staying active professionally or enjoying a life of leisure,” says Rebekah Barsch, vice president of planning, Northwestern Mutual. “In an age of ebbing social safety nets and rising costs, proactive financial planning is your ticket to having the flexibility to shape the retirement experience you’ve worked hard to enjoy.” 26 everythinglake.com
The good news is that it’s rarely too late to take control of your financial situation. Barsch suggests considering the following “retirement vacation checklist” to help assess whether your financial foundation can support your desired lifestyle through your life span: * Determine your “retirement destination” - Like an actual vacation, what you need to take depends on where you’re going and how long you’re planning to stay. So, if your goal is to retire as early as possible and lead a life of leisure without working for supplemental income, you’ll likely need more resources than if you choose to remain in the workforce as long as possible or opt for some form of employment during retirement. * Confer with your “travel companion” - If you’re retiring with a spouse or partner, it’s essential to ensure your retirement lifestyle expectations and priorities are aligned. However, maintaining open and ongoing communication about financial matters may be harder than it sounds. In
Are You Prepared to Take a 30Year Vacation? fact, Northwestern Mutual research shows that Americans prefer discussing death and intimacy over money matters. Overcoming this discomfort, especially for decision-making around difficult topics like long-term care, is vital as it could impact your significant other as well as your adult children. * Consult an expert - While the Internet has empowered us to become a nation of DIYers, there are still some areas where professional guidance is valuable. Just like a travel agent is a key resource for navigating more complex travel itineraries, a professional advisor can objectively look at your finances and goals, share insights on the merits of various risk and investment solutions and devise a strategy to meet immediate and future needs. “The benefits of being proactive are clear,” continues Barsch. “Our research consistently shows that people who are disciplined about financial planning are happier in retirement and enjoy a better quality of life, which ultimately is what it’s all about.”
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Make-ahead appetizers your guests will go nuts over alternative to bread-based starters. You can assemble these appetizers ahead of time and refrigerate them until you’re ready to serve.” Yield: 12 servings Prep time: 15 minutes Ingredients: 3/4 cup fresh arugula leaves, coarsely chopped (BPT) - Summer may be winding down, but there are still plenty of entertaining occasions like end of summer barbecues to plan for. Instead of focusing on several sides to accompany your barbecue favorites, consider offering your guests an array of seasonal appetizers to complement your main course. Celebrity chef and Food Network star, Alex Guarnaschelli offers three make-ahead, delicious appetizers that will help make entertaining a breeze. By pairing seasonal produce and herbs with nuts like walnuts and pecans for rich flavor, these appetizers will be the highlight of your meal. Chef Alex Guarnaschelli prefers to use Fisher nuts, as it is the only national brand of recipe nuts entirely without preservatives. Walnut stuffed cherry tomato halves “Who doesn’t love a stuffed cherry tomato?” Guarnaschelli says. “A mixture of cheese, peppery arugula and juicy tomatoes brings out the great richness of the nuts. Stuffed cherry tomatoes are satisfying without being filling, and make a great 28 everythinglake.com
1/2 cup (2 ounces) coarsely chopped Fisher Walnut Halves and Pieces, toasted 1/2 cup finely grated Parmesan cheese 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil 1 teaspoon balsamic vinegar 1 teaspoon grated lemon zest 1/8 teaspoon salt 36 cherry tomatoes Directions: Toast the walnuts by placing them in a large non-stick skillet over medium heat. Stir frequently until the walnuts turn golden about three to five minutes. Combine the arugula with the walnuts, cheese, olive oil, vinegar and lemon zest; set aside. Cut the tops off the tomatoes. Use a small spoon (such as an espresso spoon), the handle of a teaspoon or a melon baller to gently
Make-ahead appetizers your guests will go nuts over remove the majority of the seeds and pulp, taking care not to pierce the skin. Season the insides lightly with salt. Fill the tomatoes with the walnut and arugula mixture. Serve at room temperature. “For a more Italian experience, use authentic Parmigiano Reggiano cheese in this recipe,” Guarnaschelli suggests. “It’s more expensive than domestic Parmesan, but it has a wonderfully rich and nutty flavor.” Quickie goat cheese and pecan bites Another great make-ahead appetizer, these bites are filled with flavor and deliver the perfect combination of crunch and taste. “The freshness of the parsley and lemon zest is the perfect bridge between the goat cheese and pecans,” says Guarnaschelli. Yield: Makes 24 servings Prep time: 15 minutes Ingredients: 1 pound soft goat cheese 2 teaspoons cracked black pepper 1/2 cup toasted Fisher Pecan Halves, chopped Zest from two lemons 3 tablespoons chopped flat-leaf parsley Directions: Break up and mix the goat cheese with the black pepper in a medium bowl. Divide into 24 pieces of about 2 teaspoons each and roll into balls. Combine the pecans, lemon zest and parsley in a medium bowl until well blended. Roll the goat cheese balls in the pecan mixture. Arrange on a
serving platter. Refrigerate until ready to serve. Take them out 15 minutes before serving so they soften a little and drizzle with a little olive oil, if desired. Spicy walnut and chickpea hummus Chipotle brings smoky heat to this appetizer. While hummus is traditionally made with tahini (sesame) paste, this version uses sesame seeds and walnuts to add richness to the mixture and texture when sprinkled on top. Serve this hummus as an individual hors d’oeuvres or as a tasty dip with pita wedges. Yield: 24 2-tablespoon servings Prep time: 15 minutes Ingredients: 1 cup chopped Fisher Walnuts, divided
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Make-ahead appetizers your guests will go nuts over 1/4 cup olive oil 1 can (15 ounces) chickpeas, drained and rinsed 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice 1 tablespoon sesame seeds 2 cloves garlic 1/2 teaspoon paprika 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/4 teaspoon chipotle powder or ground red pepper 1 medium red bell pepper, ribs and seeds removed, coarsely chopped, about 3/4 cup 1 tablespoon chopped parsley Directions: Combine 1/2 cup walnuts and olive oil in the bowl of a food processor, pulse to coarsely chop the walnuts. Add the chickpeas, lemon juice, sesame seeds, garlic, paprika, chipotle powder and salt, and process until smooth. Transfer the spread from the food processor into a medium mixing bowl and stir in bell pepper, parsley and remaining 1/2 cup walnuts. Serve with toasted pita triangles, if desired.
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