FLORIDA’S PREMIER COMMUNITY January 2018
Twin Lakes LIFE
MEET YOUR NEIGHBORS
THE FLETCHERS A publication of Quantum Marketing Communications, LLC Photo by Jen Dwyer
Thank You!
for Voting for Us!
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FROM THE PUBLISHER, BILL BOKUNIC Welcome to the 3rd issue of Twin Lakes Life. This publication is for the residents and provided by your HOA, Titan Management, Jones Homes and Quantum Marketing Communications. The publication is produced quarterly until we reach a resident threshold and are able to produce it monthly. A few notes about Quantum Marketing Communications. We are 100% locally owned and produced. We strive to make sure that every penny spent and generated is done right here in Saint Cloud. Local content that, for the most part, can’t be found elsewhere and particular to Twin Lakes. Local advertising by good reputable companies that love Twin Lakes and wish to reach out to you! We need: • Twin Lakes content from resident and community leaders. • Families to be in the magazine. I look forward to hearing from the community and growing together! Bill Bokunic Publisher and CEO, Quantum Marketing Communications Email: Bill@QMCWorld.com
HELPFUL CONTACT INFORMATION HOA OF TWIN LAKES 2453 Model Lane • (407) 203-1236 info@mytwinlakeshoa.com www.mytwinlakeshoa.com HOA Emergency After Hours (407) 508-0570 Water & Sewer City of Saint Cloud: (407) 957-7344 Electric OUC: (407) 957-7373 Gas Florida Public Utilites: 1-800-427-7712 Trash & Recycling Waste Management: (407) 843-7370 Monday: Recycling Wednesday: Yard Waste Friday: Trash United States Postal Service 4701 Old Canoe Creek Rd. St. Cloud, FL 34769 1-800-275-8777 Police (Non-Emergency) Osceola County Sherriff: (407) 348-2222 Jones Homes USA Customer Service Monica Villalobos: (407) 636-8776 service@joneshomesusa.com
Twin Lakes LIFE
PUBLISHER & CEO Bill Bokunic Quantum Marketing Communications, LLC 321.331.6398 Bill@QMCWorld.com www.QMCWorld.com January 2018 | Twin Lakes Life Magazine 1
MEET YOUR NEIGHBORS: JOHN & FRANCIE FLETCHER
M
eet John and Francie Fletcher. I had the privilege of interviewing them in their home at 4916 West Fountainwood. Their house is filled with beautiful antiques that are rich in history (John’s mother was an antique dealer). My favorite piece was a beautiful refinished apothecary cabinet that came from a drug store in old Williamsburg, VA. John and Francie, now married for 54 years, spent most of their married life in northern Virginia. John started out as a high school business teacher and manager at Sears but then was called into the ministry in 1969. He received his Master of Theology degree from Capital Bible Seminary and his Doctorate from Luther Rice Seminary. John served as the Senior Pastor of Faith Bible Church in Sterling, Virginia for 34 years. The church started with only 18 people and grew to over 400 parishioners. During his tenure as pastor, over 130 individuals were called by God into full-time ministry, mostly to the mission field. Francie was an English and Spanish major. She devoted her life to raising their four sons who kept her super busy (that’s what happens when you have four boys in a six-year time span!). She also supported the activities of the church and particularly enjoyed teaching women’s Bible study groups. I asked John and Francie to describe what they admired and loved about each other. Francie described John as a spiritual leader who also has a special gift in counseling. She particularly loves his sense of humor (which I also experienced). She said he is a great dad, faithful, giving and generous. John said that Francie has a servant’s heart. He described her as spiritual, sweet, supportive, humble, brilliant and attractive. I, myself, found the Fletchers to be God’s faithful servants. They are gentle, thoughtful, unselfish, and compassionate people who put the needs of others before themselves. 2 Twin Lakes Life Magazine | January 2018
Both Francie and John shared that one of their greatest accomplishments was raising four boys and seeing the values they taught to their children being passed down to their grandchildren. John, Jr. has his own counseling practice in Ashburn, Virginia. He is married and has three children. Mark, who is in the energy business, also lives in Virginia. He is married and has two children. They describe their third son, Daniel, as an entrepreneur who works in the District of Columbia in the area of stocks and bonds. The youngest son, Ted, lives in Williamsburg, Virginia. He is married and has one child. He spends his time as a headhunter and recruiter for large corporations and businesses. While being a mom and dad is rich and rewarding, they also love being grandparents to their six grandchildren.
across Orlando. The neighbor (along with another neighbor in the area) carried all the furniture they had on the back porch inside their house for safekeeping.
John and Francie moved to Twin Lakes in March, 2017. How they came to live in St. Cloud is an interesting story. As far back as the 1980’s, the Fletchers have visited the Orlando area. In 1979, John’s brother started a faith-based mission organization called Pioneers. Its primary goal is to send ministry workers into countries and difficult areas where most workers do not go. Since Pioneers headquarters moved to the Lake Nona area, both John and Francie were driving to Orlando five to six times a year to interview and evaluate potential candidates, teach the Word of God, and represent the agency as Ambassadors-at-Large. So several factors went into their decision to move. First, by living in the Orlando area, they would not have the cost of traveling back and forth as in the past. Second, they desired a warmer climate where they could golf year around, eat breakfast on the patio, etc., (instead of shoveling snow).
When asked if John and Francie had any closing remarks, they said they would like to find people who are interested in playing bridge–which is one of their favorite card games. If you are interested in joining the Fletchers for a round of bridge, they would welcome your call. You can contact them at the phone number listed above.
Together, John and Francie like to golf, fish, play cards (particularly bridge), visit their children, and travel. John has a love of corny jokes. He even carries with him a pamphlet of jokes that he is willing to share to anyone who wants to listen. When asked what they like about Twin Lakes, Francie responded that it is wonderful living in such a beautiful community. She likes the fact that the community is filled with kind people, including the salespeople and staff—Mimi, Andrea, Liz, Jessica, Juan, Lonny, and others. They shared an example of kindheartedness they experienced. During the summer, they spent a month in Virginia. They left a key with a neighbor with whom they felt a connection. While they were gone, Hurricane Irma swept
One of their hopes for living in Twin Lakes is using their spiritual gifts to lead a community Bible study that not only explores biblical teaching but also builds (over time) a sense of belonging, community and caring for one another. Their first Bible study will be an evening six-week study on the book of James beginning January 11. Watch the Twin Lakes announcements from the HOA office for more detailed information. You can also call John on his cell phone (703-405-8557) if you have any questions or want specific details.
Francie loves to cook, and I left with five recipes that I want to try in my own kitchen. One of her favorite things to bake is a Poppyseed Cake (which she generously shares with neighbors and is so good). Here is that recipe:
POPPYSEED CAKE In a large bowl add: • 1 Duncan Hines butter cake mix • ½ cup sugar • 3 eggs • 1 cup sour cream • ¾ cup oil Mix all ingredients in a bowl. (Just till combined.) Then add: • ¼ cup poppy seeds • ½ tsp almond extract Beat until just combined and pour into oiled and sugared Bundt pan. Bake at 350 degrees for 20 minutes. Reduce heat to 300 degrees and cook for 20 more minutes. Allow to cool in pan for 10 minutes. Then dump onto plate. When cool, sift powdered sugar over the cake. Enjoy! —Debbie Rodgers Twin Lakes Resident Reporter
We know that you have many choices when purchasing, servicing or maintaining your vehicle. Please know that we sincerely appreciate the opportunity to earn your business. Thank you.
Bobby Kisselback 1. A 3-day exchange. If you buy a vehicle and you are not completely satisfied, bring it back and exchange it. 2. The first service is on us. All vehicles we sell, your first oil change and tire rotation is free. 3. Pre-owned Piece of Mind. Our Kiss Certified pre-owned vehicles are prepared for sale with a 172-point inspection process and each vehicle carries a 3-month / 3000-mile pre-owned limited warranty. 4. A full tank of gas. Every vehicle sold, new or used, is delivered with a full tank of gas. 5. Kiss & Tell Referral Rewards. Our referral rewards program pays you or your favorite charity. (Sales & Service) 6. Quick Lane Tire and Auto Center on site. Open 6 days a week, maintenance services and tire sales for almost all makes and models. 7. Kisselback Insurance Agency. Located in our main showroom, our Auto and Home insurance agents will perform a courtesy review of your existing insurance policy. Whether you purchased your vehicle here or not, let us see if we can save you some money. 8. Car Rental Location on site. If you need a rental car for any reason, we have a rental car office on site. Special Discounts apply for Kisselback Ford and Kisselback Insurance customers. 9. “The Works”, $39.95 including tax and fees. (Synthetic blend oil change, tire rotation and pressure check, brake inspection, multi-point inspection, battery test, filter check, belts and hoses check. Most makes and models. Gas engines only. Diesel Oil changes are available at a discount) 10. Complimentary local shuttle service. 11. Customer Lounge with free Wi-Fi 12. We will shop for you. If we don’t have what you are looking for, we are confident that we can find it for you. No additional charge. New or used vehicle. For all the details of our Kiss Advantage, please contact one of our sales or service team members. 407-892- KISS (5477)
407-892-2141 • KISSELBACKFORD.COM 1118 13TH STREET • ST.CLOUD, FL 34769
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7262 Harmony Square Drive, (407)891-1804. Open Tuesday- Saturday from 9am-7pm, appointments available outside of these times. 4 Twin Lakes Life Magazine | January 2018
Tips for Investing in Real Estate By Jeanine Corcoran
T
oday there are many different ways to invest your money. Some investments include certificates of deposit, bond, annuities, mutual funds and gold. When looking at all of your options, consider investing in real estate. Here are some tips for real estate investing.
investment usually means you will put a tenant in the property for at least five years. A short-term investment can be as short as three months if there is equity to flip the property.
Be Prepared Financially. Investors need enough cash to put a sizable 20% down payment if financing. An emergency fund will be needed for maintenance expenses and for times of vacancy and any other surprises that might arise.
Find a Reliable Realtor. Find a trustworthy and reliable Realtor to help you understand the local market. This will be your best resource to help you find the right investment for you.
Do Your Research. Know everything about the community you are purchasing in. Is
Investing in real estate can be scary if you don’t know what you are doing. Be prepared financially, do your research, know your location and goals and most of all, find a reliable Realtor to help you navigate through the process. If you do all of this, the scary goes away and it is replaced with excitement and financial gratification. n
there room for growth? What are the possible changes that might be coming to the area that could affect property values?
Know Your Location. Is the property located in a desirable area? A desirable area would
have job growth and conveniences such as grocery stores, gas stations and shopping centers.
Know Your Goals. Will your investment be long-term or short term? A long-term
Jeanine Corcoran is the Broker and Owner of The Corcoran Connection, LLC – A Real Estate and Property Management Company. Jeanine has been helping families with their Real Estate needs since 2005. Jeanine is Barbara Corcoran’s sister from ABC’s SHARK TANK. Jeanine can be reached at 407.922.3308, email her at Jeanine@TheCorcoranConnection.com, or visit TheCorcoranConnection.com
LEASED
SOLD
SOLD
$1,700
$201,750
$119,000
3306 Pond Pine Rd 3524 Sebastian Bridge 7140 Forty Banks 4 Bed | 3.5 Bath 3 Bed | 2.5 Bath 2 Bed / 2 Bath 2335 sq ft 1876 sq ft 1316 sq ft by Jeanine Corcoran by Jeanine Corcoran by William Bokunic
FOR SALE
SOLD
$369,900
$329,203
1851 Westerham 3221 Dark Sky Dr 4 Bed / 3.5 Bath 5 Bed / 4 Bath 2842 sq ft Pool / 3519 sq ft by Kimberly Towe by Jeanine Corcoran
Announcing the Corcoran Buyer Program. Available only through The Corcoran Connection. Contact us before visiting a builder for more information! Jeanine Corcoran - Broker | Owner | The Corcoran Connection 407-953-9118 - office | Jeanine@TheCorcoranConnection.com TheCorcoranConnection.com Serving your Real Estate and Property Management Needs Connect with us on Social Media! January 2018 | Twin Lakes Life Magazine 5
ENJOY OUR NEW AMENITIES!
S
everal new amenities have been finished and are available for resident use. Among them are Har-Tru Tennis Courts, Pickleball Courts, Bocce Ball, Putting Green, Dock, Heated Lap Pool, Grilling Stations, Outdoor Fireplace, Basketball Court, and a beautiful clubhouse with a pool table and poker room. The clubhouse is open from 9am-9pm and has an equipment closet with lots of items to use at our new amenities. Inside the clubhouse we also have games, puzzles and books to enjoy. We hope you take time to check out these new amenities. Below we have outlined the policy for use of the aquatic equipment.
Paddleboard, Kayak & Boat Information— General Policies • Reservations must be made more than 72 hours in advance by coming into the HOA Office, calling 407-203-1236 or by email info@mytwinlakeshoa.com. • Reservations are not confirmed until you received a confirmation email from management. • Liability Waiver MUST be signed for each participant prior to confirmation of reservation. • You must not be under the influence of drugs or alcohol while using equipment. • Photo ID and/or Current Driver’s license is required at the time of launch. • You must be a resident, 18 years old or older to reserve equipment. • At least one homeowner must accompany any guests on the water. • While in the water you must wear a life vest and abide by all water safety rules. • Please notify us of any cancellation at least 24 hours in advance to avoid being charged for a missed course, by calling 407-203-1236 or by email info@mytwinlakeshoa.com • Homeowners Association of Twin Lakes, Inc. reserves the right to refuse any individual(s) use of equipment if deemed necessary. • Lost or abandoned equipment will be billed $50 per hour for recovery time.
Boating • A captain must be used for boating trips. We recommend you reserve boats more than 72 hours in advance to be sure a captain is available.
• Cost for a captain is $25 an hour. Most trips will require a captain for at least three hours to account for launching and docking of the boat. • A fuel fee of $20 will apply. • Residents may only have one boat reservation at a time. You cannot r eserve multiple dates at once. • Residents are responsible for bringing any necessary supplies on the trip— sunscreen, water, snacks, hats, etc. • No more than 6 people can fit on the boat. If additional boaters show up at the launch they will not be able to board for safety reasons. • Any damage to the boating equipment caused by a resident or accompanying guests will be the responsibility of the resident.
Kayaking/Paddleboarding • Residents and accompanying guests must take a safety course prior to taking kayaks on the water independently. The course costs $45 for Kayak and $25 for Paddleboard. • When making your reservation be sure to mention that you need the safety course. Reservations can be made through the HOA office. • Once you have taken the Safety Course and signed the waiver you can reserve kayaks/paddleboards for launch independently or launch your own personal kayak/paddleboard. n
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TAX LAW UPDATE By Jason Flowers CPA, CFA, CFP, EA, CTFA
T
he Tax Cuts and Jobs Act was approved by the House and Senate on 12/19/2017 and signed into law by President Trump on December 22nd, 2017. A summary of key changes relative to individual income tax returns is detailed below. Many of these changes will affect your 2018 tax returns going forward. Standard Deduction: In 2018, the standard deduction increased from $6,350 to $12,000 for single taxpayers, from $12,700 to $24,000 for married filing jointly, and from $9,350 to $18,000 for head of household. These increases in the standard deduction are expected to continue until 2025. Personal Exemption: The personal exemptions will disappear in 2018 and remain unavailable until 2025. Child Tax Credit: Previously taxpayers could claim a child tax credit of up to $1,000 per child under the age of 17. In addition to the Child Tax Credit, taxpayers were also afforded what was known as the Additional Child Tax Credit. The Additional Child Tax Credit allowed a taxpayer who was unable to utilize 100% of the Child Tax Credit to obtain a refund equal to the lesser of the unused portion of the Child Tax Credit or 15% of earned income above $3,000 up to the extent of receiving the entire Child Tax Credit of $1,000 per child. The new child tax credit for 2018, combines both the Child Tax Credit and Additional Child Tax Credit into one Child Tax credit equal to $2,000 per child with up to $1,400 being refundable assuming the taxpayer was unable to utilize the credit to offset taxes. Mortgage Deductions: Deductible interest expense paid on secured debt used to buy, build or improve your main home or second home will be limited on loan amounts of $750,000 for debt incurred on or after 12/31/2017. If you purchased prior to this date the previous limits will be in place relative to deductible mortgage interest. Medical Expense Deduction: Taxpayers may deduct medical expenses
8 Twin Lakes Life Magazine | January 2018
that exceed 7.5% of AGI in 2017 and 2018 as an itemized deduction on Schedule A. This new deduction level ends 1/1/2019. Limits on Itemized Deductions: Previously, itemized deductions were reduced for all taxpayers who had AGI above certain thresholds based on their filing status. From 2018-2025 these overall limits on itemized deductions would be eliminated. Miscellaneous Deductions Subject to a 2% AGI Floor: These itemized deductions are eliminated from 2018-2025. Itemized deductions in this category include unreimbursed employee expenses, investment expenses, tax preparation fees and fees to maintain a safe deposit box. Taxpayers with assets managed by an investment advisor will no longer be able to deduct their investment management fees. Additionally, taxpayers who drive for their employer may no longer take a deduction for unreimbursed employee expenses such as mileage on the Schedule A. If you are self-employed, you are still allowed to deduct mileage on your Schedule C. Capital Gains Tax Rates: No changes made. SALT: State and Local taxes will be capped at $10,000 for married filing jointly and $5,000 for married filing separately for 2018. Included in this category are the following: state and local taxes, real estate property taxes and personal property taxes. Any attempt to pre-pay 2018 state and local taxes in 2017 will be considered to have been paid in 2018. Casualty and Theft Losses: Repealed for 2018-2025 unless in a federally declared disaster area. n
If you need assistance with how the upcoming changes will affect your taxes Larry Herring CPAs and Consultants are here to help. Please call or e-mail today at 407-647-7777 or info@herringcpa.com for a free consultation.
12 Twin Lakes Life Magazine | January 2018
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