Save these Dates
October 4 9 13 31
Yom Kippur Board Meeting @ 7:00 p.m. in HOA office Columbus Day Halloween
November “The Killearn Lakes ‘Lakes View’ Magazine is not partnered or affiliated with any other publications. KLHOA Board and Staff request you please support the advertisers who support your neighborhood.”
2014 Board of Directors (Elected by general membership)
1 2 8 11 27
Fall Festival at Tekesta Park Daylight Savings Time Ends Annual Meeting Veterans Day Thanksgiving (HOA office closed 11/26-11/28)
December 11
Board Meeting @ 7:00 p.m.
Directors Trina Searcy, President Tom Martineau, Treasurer Joe Barnett, Director Mark Worley, Director
Mark Reichert, Vice President Joanie Trotman, Secretary Dan King, Director
Administrative Staff Nancy C. Johnson Anne Marshall Gregory Durant Sharon Malloy
Operations Director, Bookkeeper & Editor Office Manager Field Manager Assistant Editor, Assistant Office Manager
Office Hours: Mon-Fri 9:00 a.m.-3:00 p.m. T: 850-668-3231 | F: 850-894-1477 E: Admin@killearnlakeshoa.org 7110 Beech Ridge Trail, Tallahassee FL, 32312 Corporate Records are available upon written request.
Important Phone Numbers
Fire Department & Leon County Sheriff (non-emergency situations only):
606-3300
Talquin Electric (ex: Light out on your street) (Bradfordville office):
893-6853
www.KillearnLakesHOA.org
Outages (24-hour service):
If you haven’t already, register your information with our NEW website if you wish to continue to receive resident email alerts from the association office. Directions to do so are directly beside the registration box located on the ‘Contact Us’ page. Thank you!
Leon County Public Roads:
Cover Photo Contest Photographer:
The photo for this month’s cover of Lakes View Magazine was submitted by Tania Pendarakis. Hopefully cooler weather is on the way! Did you know that your photography could be showcased on our cover? If you have a photo you would like to submit for consideration, simply send it to admin2@killearnlakeshoa.org. All submitted photos should be at the highest available quality {at least 300dpi}. Entries will be reviewed by the editor and assistant editor. The selected photo will appear on an upcoming issue of the “Lakes View” Magazine. It would be helpful if you could share a personal story along with the photo. Call our office at (850) 668-3231 if you have any additional questions. We look forward to “showcasing” your photo submissions!
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Lakes View / Issue 67 / October 2014
CALL BEFORE YOU DIG:
(1-888) 802-1832 606-1400 (1-800) 432-4770
Animal Control:
606-5400
Leon County Mosquito Control:
606-1400
Waste Pro:
606-1899
Leon County Storm Water Questions::
606-1400
Stay Connected with Killearn Lakes. Like our Facebook page Killearn Lakes Homeowners and follow us on Pintrest and Twitter @KLHOA.
“
It is
never too late to become who you
always wanted to Be. – ANONYMOUS
Editor’s Note
O
”
ur Community Came Together ….when an innocent little boy was tragically and sadly taken too soon. Please see how his young friends and their families came together on a Saturday morning at Tekesta Park and said their goodbyes to their friend and school mate, Mason. (See Pages 14 & 15). Your HOA also plans to dedicate a very “special tree” in memory of Mason at Lake Pine Hill Park where he and his brother often played. It was during my office visit I was asked by my doctor about the tragedy. It was midst the conversation about the events that were planned in honor of Mason, he suggested that maybe we should include a tree house or a fort in honor of him as well. I brought back that idea and shared it with everyone in the office. Coincidentally around that same time we had nice young men stop by the office, ask if we might have a possible Eagle Scout Project they could help with or spearhead. As I write this we should find out soon if this would be accepted as a possible Eagle Scout project from the Eagle Scout Master. We are hopeful that the tree house or fort project might come to fruition for Lake Pine Hill Park. We are presently attempting to coordinate both the scout project and the tree dedication. More information will be forthcoming as to date and time for this dedication. The Fall Festival Event this year will be Saturday November 1 from 11 am to 3 pm. Invitations will be mailed to only those homeowners who are up to date with their dues payments. The cost for these events is paid from your dues so it is only fair that you would be the ones to receive an invitation. As always... Please remember to– Bring your invitation to the registration table. You will be given a ticket for a special Grand Prize Drawing- Back by popular demand- YOUR 2015 Annual Dues Will Be Paid!! So if you don’t stop by the registration table with your invitation- you will miss out on the Grand Prize! We have great cooks in our neighborhood and that’s why all the deserts and side dishes go so fast. We appreciate your contributions to the desert and sides table, please bring your recipes to one day be compiled in a cookbook in the very near future. And as always there will be hotdogs, hamburgers, chips, drinks, sno cones, popcorn and chicken nuggets to enjoy. So bring your lawn chairs and blankets and get ready to have a great afternoon. The crowds seem to get larger each year and weather permitting we will have another good turnout November 1st. Volunteers are a crucial component with all our events. If you can spare an hour or two, need service hours or just want to see how it all comes together, please call the office. (850-668-3231) or you can e-mail admin@killearnlakeshoa.org. If you have called the HOA office lately you may have noticed a new voice at the other end of the line trying to answer your questions or requests you may have. That voice would be our newest addition to our “team”, Sharon Malloy. Sharon is a longtime resident of our neighborhood and brings great experience having recently retired from the Department of Business & Professional Regulations and has already in such a short time made suggestions and ways the office can operate more efficiently. Some of those ways have already been implemented into our office p&p. Sharon is also assisting with the magazine. If you have any suggestions of articles you would like to read about please give Sharon a call and we will do our very best to accomodate your ideas. If you are heading in or out of the neighborhood why don’t you stop by and say hello to Sharon.
Nancy C. Johnson Operations Director, Bookkeeper & Editor Be sure to register as a member at www.killearnlakeshoa.org
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Bryan's Brief I'm beginning to wonder if we're ever going to enjoy our typical Tallahassee autumn weather. The heat and humidity are certainly taking a toll on everyone and I'm looking forward to some cool weather and great football. Great news to share – our very own County Attorney Herb Thiele was elected as President-Elect of the International Municipal Attorneys Association (IMLA). IMLA is the only organization on a national scale, including Canada, which represents all local government lawyers nation-wide and he is the first County Attorney to head the organization. This is just another indication of the respect accorded your County representatives and I hope you’ll join with me in congratulating him on this extraordinary recognition. My election as the 2nd Vice President of the National Association of Counties has been a learning experience and I’m finding that as diverse as our counties are nation-wide, we have many of the same issues. We’re working hard to address those on the federal level. Although my travel schedule has increased, I’m still in touch by email and Brenda is keeping me updated on issues that are brought to her attention. My first obligation is to District IV so please don’t hesitate to contact me if you need assistance. Our final public hearing on the budget is scheduled for September 23 at 6:00 p.m. Hope to see you there or you may contact me with any suggestions you may have regarding budget proposals. I’m proud to add that with the proposed budget, Leon County continues to maintain the lowest net budget, the lowest net budget per resident, the second lowest number of employees per capita than any other like-sized counties in Florida. And, when compared to Florida’s other 66 counties, Leon County has the fifth lowest net budget per capita, and has the third lowest number of employees per capita. Also, the General Election is fast approaching – November 4. The Sales Tax Extension will be included on the ballot and in the proposal are three projects located in District IV: The Northeast Connector Corridor (Bannerman Road) $36.3 million; Northeast Park $10 million; and Improvements to Market District $9.9. The Sales Tax Initiative may be the only way of funding these projects – at least in the next 20 to 30 years. I’m voting for it and I strongly encourage you to do the same. Please share this information with your friends, families and neighbors. We need all the help we can get to make this happen if we are to ever have a northeast park or the expansion of Bannerman Road in our lifetime. For more detailed information on its development by the Leon County Sales Tax Committee and the proposed projects, go to www.LeonPenny.org.
October 2014 30 days, with no problems, bad weather, etc. so I’m actually hoping for mid-November at the latest. The Bannerman Road widening plans from the new roundabout to Quail Common are in the design process and a partnership agreement will be brought to the Board later this year. There are still a lot of issues to work out. If all goes well, construction on the widening could begin the summer of 2015. Killearn Lakes Stormwater Project – work continues on Unit III, Unit II is nearing completion and we’re hoping to bid Unit I this Fall with construction starting in the early Spring. Orchard Pond Toll Road – we’re in the process of reviewing plans and the developer is seeking permits. Their plans are about 60% completed. The developer has received approved from the Canopy Road Committee on the connection of the toll road at Meridian and approval to install a traffic signal and the placement of toll road signage. McBride Point Rd. – at the intersection of Bannerman Rd, a 5 foot asphalt area will be repaired, the side drain culvert flushed and road side swales cleaned. Thanks to Gary Smallridge for bringing this to our attention. Rural Waste Service Centers – during the budget process, we determined that in order to keep the Rural Waste Service Centers open, a reduction in operating hours was necessary and beginning October lst, the centers will only be open 9 to 5 on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday with unlimited trips allowed. You are receiving this because I have your name or neighborhood association on my mailing list. Many of your family, friends or neighbors may not be receiving it. I hope you’ll take the time to share this information or let them know they can send an email to me and I’ll add them to the mailing list. I consider it an honor and a privilege to serve as your District IV Commissioner and I commit to you that I will continue to do the best job I can in representing you and our community. As always, I welcome your input and appreciate all of you who act as my eyes in the District. Many of the improvements we’ve already made, or are currently working on, came from citizen suggestions or observations. As you plan for your neighborhood/homeowner’s association meetings, please let me know the dates and times so that I may join you. Please don’t hesitate to call me if you have any questions or concerns, deslogeb@leoncountyfl.gov or 606-5364.
DISTRICT IV UPDATE The Bannerman Bypass Road – is nearing completion and on or about Oct 1, we’ll divert traffic onto the bypass & begin construction of the roundabout – the estimated completion date is 4
Lakes View / Issue 67 / October 2014
Leon County Board of County Commissioners
Bryan Desloge
October Is National Breast Cancer Month HOW’S YOUR BREAST CANCER IQ???
When it comes to your breast health, don’t be fooled by rumors and misinformation. Get the facts. Test your knowledge of 6 common beliefs about breast cancer. 1: You can get breast cancer even if it doesn’t run in your family. • True • False The Correct Answer is True. Most women diagnosed with breast cancer – more than 85% – have no family history of the disease. Having a relative with breast cancer does increase your risk. But other factors such as age, being overweight, alcohol use, and hormone therapy after menopause can also increase your risk of developing breast cancer. 2: If breast cancer runs in your family, you’re sure to get it. • True • False The Correct Answer is False. Having breast cancer in your family doesn’t guarantee you’ll get it. Many times, cancer runs in families because they have similar lifestyle habits – habits you can control and change to lower your risk of breast cancer. This includes staying at a healthy weight, getting regular physical activity, and not smoking. If you do suspect you have an inherited gene mutation, talk to your doctor about genetic counseling. The most common defects or mutations that increase breast cancer risk are in the BRCA genes. Knowing your family history empowers you to tackle the risk factors you can control. It should also motivate you to get screened regularly so that breast cancer is caught early – when it’s small, hasn’t spread, and is easier to treat. Talk to your doctor about what your risk is, when you need to start screening, and whether you need extra tests beyond mammograms and breast exams.
3: You still need mammograms after menopause. • True • False The Correct Answer is True. Getting older is not a reason to skip regular breast health checks. In fact, your risk of developing breast cancer goes up as you get older. About 2 out of 3 invasive breast cancers are found in women age 55 or older. As long as you’re in good health and would be a candidate for treatment, you should continue getting mammograms. 4: Men can get breast cancer. • True • False The Correct Answer is True. More than 2,000 men are diagnosed with breast cancer every year. Men should not ignore breast lumps and should get any breast changes checked. Still, breast cancer is about 100 times more common in women than men, with more than 230,000 women diagnosed in each year. 5: Surgery and needle biopsies can cause breast cancer to spread. • True • False The Correct Answer is False. Needle biopsies to diagnose breast cancer do not cause cancer cells to spread to other parts of the body. Nor does exposure to air during breast cancer surgery cause the disease to spread. Sometimes a surgeon does find more cancer than the imaging scans or X-rays showed, but in those cases the cancer was already there. It just hadn't shown up on tests that were done. 6: There is nothing you can do to lower your breast cancer risk. • True • False The Correct Answer is False. While you can’t change certain risk factors - like being female and having a family history of breast cancer - you can do a lot to help reduce your breast cancer risk as much as possible. In a word: lifestyle. Exercise more and eat healthier, especially if you’re overweight or obese. Limit or eliminate alcohol and quit smoking. Cancer prevention isn’t fool-proof, but being responsible about your health can go a long way. For more information about breast cancer http://www.cancer.org/cancer/breastcancer/index.
go
to
Be sure to register as a member at www.killearnlakeshoa.org
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Lakes View / Issue 67 / October 2014
Is Your Child Struggling In Schl? Two Parent Seminars You Shouldn’t Miss By: Vic Aderhold For many parents and students the school experience is not a pleasant one. The problems of last spring did not go away over the summer, and parents are beginning to hear again, “He’s so smart but… He doesn’t pay attention; She is disorganized; He doesn’t follow directions; She reads but doesn’t seem to comprehend; His handwriting is horrible! He is so immature.”
If you are a frustrated parent who has tried everything to help your child succeed in school and you are getting no results, you should attend this seminar On October 7, 6:30 – 8:00 p.m. Dyslexia Research Institute/Woodland Hall Academy will present the seminar: “Find Out Why Your Bright Child Is Struggling In School – Could Dyslexia, ADHD, or Related Learning Disorders Be The Problem?” Parents will leave the seminar with a greater understanding of the characteristics of these learning differences. They will learn what steps they can take to identify if their child has a disability or disorder interfering with their success, and what resources exist in the schools and community to help their children. Dyslexia Research Institute/Woodland Hall Academy will hold a seminar on October 21th from 6:30 – 8:00 p.m. entitled “How Nutrition Affects Behavior and Learning”. Children with ADHD, Dyslexia and related learning differences have biochemical differences which may show up as behavioral and physical problems. Behaviorally, children may have mood swings, impulsivity, temper tantrums, don’t sleep well and have attention concentration issues. Physical problems may be the classic allergy symptoms such as runny nose, headaches, stomachaches, excess gas or the more subtle ones of fatigue, irritability, lethargy, etc. Parents will learn what they can do to identify and utilize the nutritional and environmental factors that can help their child: 1) focus longer; 2) maintain their attention; 3) exert better control over their moods; 4) minimize allergies and sensitivities; and 5) become more effective learners. Robyn Rennick, Program Coordinator of Dyslexia Research Institute says, “If you are a frustrated parent who has tried everything
to help your child succeed in school and you are getting no results, you should attend this seminar. Too often these “smart, but…” children truly have a learning difference that is going unrecognized. Since 1975 Dyslexia Research Institute/Woodland Hall Academy has been assisting parents in identifying and overcoming their children’s learning differences to become successful in life. The seminars will be held October 7 and October 21 from 6:30 – 8:00 pm at Woodland Hall Academy, 5246 Centerville Rd, Tallahassee. Call (850) 893-2216 to register. Registration is $10 per family for each workshop.
Be sure to register as a member at www.killearnlakeshoa.org
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Lakes View / Issue 67 / October 2014
Be sure to register as a member at www.killearnlakeshoa.org
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A Lk at Both Sides of the New EPA Emissions Rule: By: Kim Gay
In the last two editions of our Talquin Electric Cooperative Challenges: newsletter, we have introduced our Members to a new rule proposed Implementing this rule will increase electric rates. Until the state by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to limit the amount develops a plan and that plan is approved by the EPA, we do not of greenhouse gases being emitted by electric generation in the United know how much the rates will increase. States. Obviously, this rule is very complex. By its very nature, this Following this rule will be nearly impossible without eliminating rule will impact everyone in our country. However, our duty is to a significant portion of coal generation. A major reduction in the ensure our Members are informed concerning the impacts of the rule amount of electricity produced by coal will result in a decrease in fuel to Talquin. diversity and a decrease in grid reliability. As most of you know, many scientists believe that increased levels One result could be the creation of an over-dependence on of greenhouse gases, such as carbon dioxide (CO2) are causing natural gas. The utility industry has worked throughout the years to significant changes in the global climate. In 2009, the EPA make sure we are not too reliant on one fuel source. Overdetermined that greenhouse gases threaten Americans' health and dependence leaves our Members vulnerable to risks involving supply welfare by leading to long lasting changes in our climate that can have and price (i.e. shortages in supply due to events such as hurricanes a range of negative effects on and volatility in pricing by human health and the being over-committed to environment. According to one fuel). The proposed rule will establish the the EPA, CO2 is the Another result would primary greenhouse gas, United States as a leader in emission likely be too much reliance accounting for nearly 75% on renewables. Renewables reductions from power plants. of global greenhouse gas are not available 24/7, and emissions and 84% of U.S. no reliable energy storage, greenhouse gas emissions. such as batteries, is available Please take a few minutes to read about the potential opportunities for the large-scale grid. One other drawback to the emphasis on and challenges presented by this rule: renewable energy in Florida would be the extreme land area required for solar installations. The amount of land required just to replace Opportunities: Seminole Electric’s coal generating station with solar generation is approximately 13,000 acres. This is equivalent to 9,893 football The proposed EPA rule reduces greenhouse gas emissions from fields. a noticeable sector in the chart above – electricity. According to the Shutting down coal plants before the end of their economic life, EPA, emissions from US power plants will be reduced by 30% from will result in increased electric rates. Despite the plant being out of 2005 levels. This reduction in emissions represents a 1% decrease in global operation, our Members will still have to pay for the debt. In other CO2 emissions. While this amount may not sound significant, it is words, our Members will be paying for two plants but only receiving the value of one. This would be similar to being thrown out of your a start in the process in reducing global emissions. house, being required to pay rent or a mortgage at another location, The proposed rule will establish the United States as a leader in and still paying the mortgage on the house you were thrown out of. emission reductions from power plants. Our leaders hope that other Closing down coal plants will result in lost jobs. In the state of countries will follow our example. Florida alone, this rule proposes shutting down 18 coal plants. Just This rule would add emphasis to increasing the amount of from closing down Seminole Electric’s one plant, at least 300 jobs electricity produced by renewable resources. Renewables, such as will be lost. These jobs will not be made up by shifting generation wind and solar power, can produce electricity without adding any to existing natural gas plants as proposed in this rule. types of emissions to the atmosphere. As we mentioned in The Current last month, the rule establishes The proposed EPA rule provides states with flexibility in creating different goals for each state. The EPA has designated reduction goals their own plans to achieve compliance. Each state is provided with that are disparate among the states. The reduction standards being an emissions goal that must be met by 2030, as well as an interim applied to Florida are higher than most, which compounds the goal for the period from 2020 to 2030. The EPA provided a set of challenge for us. “building blocks” that were used to develop the individual state goals This rule represents a major change in the attitude of electric and to provide guidance for states to use in reaching their goals. States utility regulation. Since the beginning of electric utilities, our are not required to follow the EPA’s guidelines in developing their plans. 10
Lakes View / Issue 67 / October 2014
The Bradfordville Community Center has a temporary meetings location: Located in "Bannerman Crossings" @6668-14 Thomasville Road
industry has been heavily regulated to ensure reliable service at a cost that is fair, just, and reasonable. This new regulation shifts the regulatory focus of the electric utility industry to ensure service with minimal CO2 emissions without regard to cost and reliability. The EPA has provided a public comment period for this rule. They would like to hear what the public has to say about the rule and about how the rule will affect you, our Members. The comment period lasts until October 16. We encourage everyone reading this article to provide the EPA with your comments. If you are not satisfied with this rule, please visit www2.epa.gov/carbon-pollution-standards/how-commentclean-power-plan-proposed-rule, www.action.coop or www.tellepa.com to provide your opinions. If you are satisfied with this rule, please visit www2.epa.gov/carbon-pollution-standards/how-commentclean-power-plan-proposed-rule to provide your opinions. Either way, we believe this rule will have important effects on our Members, and we believe our Members should weigh in with the EPA on their feelings concerning this rule. Either way, Talquin will be working with our federal and state representatives on our Members’ behalf to ease the challenges and minimize any negative impacts to you.
Be sure to register as a member at www.killearnlakeshoa.org
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What: When:
Two hours of Free family-friendly classic Christmas movies under the stars on a 40 foot screen! Saturday, December 13th, 2014 * 7:00 – 9:00 PM
Homemade Cookies • Hot Chocolate • Popcorn Sponsored by
Canopy Roads Baptist Church www.canopyroads.org/moviesinthepark
Supporting Kids with a Dream
The members of SKWAD (Supporting Kids with a Dream), a club at Lawton Chiles High School, would like to thank all of the families in the neighborhood who donated to our Christmas stocking drive. The students distributed flyers and collected items in September over a four week period. The families were very generous, and thanks to them, we have a great start on all the items needed for our Christmas stockings for the orphans in Ukraine! We have such a great community! We really appreciate all of the time it took for you to put together your donations. If we missed any houses or you weren't home when we collected, you may drop off your donations at 8528 Hannary Circle, or schedule a pick up by calling 505-463-8567. Thank you again for your generosity! The SKWAD
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Lakes View / Issue 67 / October 2014
FareShare Pumpkin Bread Mix together in large bowl: 3 ½ cups flour 2 teaspoons baking soda 1 ½ teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon cinnamon 1 teaspoon nutmeg 2 cups sugar
Mix together in small bowl: 1 cup oil 4 eggs 2 cups canned pumpkin (16 ounce cans) 2/3 cup water Stir until smooth
Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Add wet to dry ingredients. Stir only until dry ingredients are moistened. Pour into 2 well-greased loaf pans. Bake at 350 degrees for 1 hour.
Be sure to register as a member at www.killearnlakeshoa.org
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"Painting in the Park"in memory of
Mason Rhinehart By: Britni Dempsey
The Killearn Lakes community came together with love and support for an event called "Painting in the Park" held on August 15th at Tekesta park. This event was a celebration of Mason Rhinehart's life, and a time to bring family and friends together to love, laugh and remember "happy times" with Mason. Love, support and comfort filled the park as family and friends gathered to paint pictures and write notes for Mason's mother, Spring Rhinehart, his father Zack White, and 8-year-old brother Aden. Tables and tents were set
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Lakes View / Issue 67 / October 2014
up throughout the grassy area with paint supplies and canvases with pictures of Mason on them. There were bricks, as well, that were painted with messages for the family. As people arrived they were given a black sticker with a pink heart, which had “Mason” written on it in white letters. The two-hour morning event was planned by Killearn Lakes’ residents, Robyn Vandewater, Britni Dempsey and Erica Catledge— all of whom have children who were Mason's friends and classmates at Killearn Lakes Elementary School. The three mothers wanted to offer support and help others, especially the kids, express their feelings through art therapy. Many people and local businesses volunteered and offered support to help make this event a huge success. There were hundreds of blue balloons for family and friends to write messages to Mason. At the end of the event, family, friends and classmates gathered around the field and released the balloons up to the sky with messages to Mason. The community has shown so much love and support to the Rhinehart-White family during this time.
Be sure to register as a member at www.killearnlakeshoa.org
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Master Builder Best Practices Presents:
Questions to the Master Builder By: Mark Worley
Q. A.
What are some simple precautions to take during our home renovation?
Your builder should take a proactive approach to not only protect your home from excessive dust, but your family. Prior to starting the renovation, the builder should have a site meeting explaining the schedule and what to expect during the process. A general overall schedule should be explained prior to starting the project, followed by a weekly schedule during construction that would include work hours, cleaning and storage of material. A thorough builder will take into consideration your work hours, regular routines and special requirements needed by your family. Other precautions should include the following: • Using protective material on the floor that will be easy to walk on during construction. • The use of plastic room dividers to provide dust protection while separating work areas from living space for personal protection. • Properly storing materials, tools and promptly removing construction debris. • Using an air filter or depressurization system to control dust in the work area and the rest of the home. • Adding additional air filters to the existing HVAC system to avoid dust from entering the system. • Builder supplied bathroom facilities (temp toilet) that will separate contractor traffic from living area.
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Taking the time to protect you and your home may take some extra time during the construction process but will result in a safer, cleaner home during and after the project is complete.
Do-It-Yourself Tip To help clean the air in your home, tape a 20”x20” HVAC air filter over the intake of an inexpensive box fan that can be purchased for about $12.00 and let it run 247 during your renovation.
Mark Worley is the only Graduate Master Builder in Tallahassee and one of only 13 statewide as recognized by the National Association of Home Builders. You can reach him through his website at www.worleyconst.com or at (850) 668-3438 for help with your construction problems.
Who Should You Call If… •
You are having problems with trash-pick up? Waste-Pro 850-606-1899
•
Your neighbor is burning leaves in an unsafe manner? Leon County Fire Department- 850-891-4310
•
Your neighbor is playing their music too loud? Leon County Sheriff ’s Office- 850-922-3300
•
There is a street light out, or there are problems with your electricity or water? Talquin- 850-893-6853
•
There is a pot hole in the street, a downed tree, problems with the sidewalk, or a dead animal on the side of the road? Leon County Public Works- 850-606-1400
•
You are having problems with your neighbors dog barking? Leon County Animal Control- 850-606-5400 or Leon County Sheriff Department- 850-922-3300
•
Your house is on fire or your life is in danger? 911
•
You have problems with flooding in your yard or on your street? Leon County Public Works- 850-606-1400
•
You have a mosquito problem? Leon County Public Works- 850-606-1400
Be sure to register as a member at www.killearnlakeshoa.org
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Cyndy’s Ruminations By Cyndy Reichert
Prf of Heaven
A Neurosurgeon's Journey into the Afterlife By Eben Alexander, M.D.
Dr. Eben Alexander is a gifted Neurosurgeon/ Scientist who trained and worked at Duke University, then became an Associate at Harvard Medical School. He has devoted his life to Science and, to the greatest blessing of his life, his family: Holley (his wife), his sons Eben IV and Bond, and his extended family. On November 10, 2008, Eben, who had never really been sick with anything more than a cold or a headache, awoke at 54 years of age, to a terrible headache and severe back pain that led to a seizure. Over the next few hours he was transported by ambulance to the emergency room, his seizures continued and he became unresponsive. As his situation deteriorated and his brain lost all of its function, thus showing no activity, Eben was put on a ventilator. His wife and family were provided little hope that he would survive.
or blood vessels. Then he sees nightmarish grotesque animal faces that would bump into him. Soon he begins to smell a foul odor. Eben will later call this the realm of the "Earthworm's-Eye View." With real knowledge of the seriousness of her husband’s illness, Holly and the rest of his family and friends surround him in his ICU room, holding his hand. They pray and stay. Eben's two sisters, Phyllis and Betsy, vow to stay with him overnight, continually holding his hand, until he comes back to them. Something appears out of Eben's darkness...an opening with spinning lights towards which he begins to move. As Eben approaches this new "realm", he feels as if he's being reborn. He enters a beautiful, fascinating world... passing over trees, fields, waterfalls and people who sing and dance below him. They wore beautiful,
Eben, who had never really been sick with anything more than a cold or a headache, awoke at 54 years of age, to a terrible headache and severe back pain that led to a seizure. As many questions were asked and answered (and more lab tests), Eben was diagnosed with Bacterial E. coli Meningitis; a very rare infection for an adult. As the doctors struggled to contain the infection, Eben dropped off in to a deep coma, where he would stay for seven days. As Eben slips into the deep coma, he is surrounded by a visible darkness that he compares to dirty Jell-O. It is transparent, but blurry and claustrophobic in a suffocating kind of way. There is a rhythmic pounding. He has consciousness without any memory or identity... and no body... and no sense or realm of time. He is just there. Later, he became aware of objects around him that he thought of as roots 18
Lakes View / Issue 67 / October 2014
simple clothes, but he senses a "realness" about them. But then butterflies appear, and Eben becomes cognizant of a beautiful girl with brown hair, high cheekbones and deep blue eyes riding on a butterfly's wing next to him. Without using words she imparts a three part message to him: You are loved and cherished, dearly, forever; you have nothing to fear; and there is nothing you can do wrong. She also informs Eben that he will witness many things while he is "here", but that he would also go back. He wonders what she means by “go back”...and back where? Eben will later call this the "Gateway." Eben wordlessly asks many questions, and the answers come
instantly in an explosion of light, color, love, and beauty that blows through him like a crashing wave. He continues to move forward, entering an immense void of darkness. From this darkness comes a brilliant orb that was solid and living...Om...the Creator... God. He became acutely aware of the closeness of God, but also of the infinite vastness of the Creator. Eben calls this the "Core." Eben would cross back and forth through the three Realms for the seven days that he was in a deep coma. The doctors were beginning to consult with the family about "letting go." The bacterial meningitis had aggressively attacked the cortex of his brain...the portion of the brain responsible for conscious, rational thought. Their scans indicated that there was no brain activity. On the seventh day, Eben came back to the earthly world. He did not remember his loving family surrounding him, but he did speak with bliss and joy, as that is the spiritual realm from which he awoke. There are so MANY more elements to this book. Eben was an adopted child. His parents showered him with unconditional love, letting him know that he was "chosen", but he always wondered about his "birth parents", and why they gave him away. He sought them out for years before his coma, finally meeting them before his illness. Unfortunately, his “birth” sister Betsy (he had two sisters named Betsy, a “birth” sister and one in his adopted family) had died several years before he met his "birth family." Dr. Alexander, Eben, wrote this book as he felt he had an obligation as a Scientist to impart the experiences that he had when he was, admittedly, brain dead. His "near death experience", or NDE, forced him to face his former cynical views when he heard his patients talk about their experiences. As a healer, he'd always been kind, but chalked it up to hallucinatory brain damage. Nor was Dr. Alexander very religious. He counted himself among many “C” and “E”ers (attending mass at Christmas and Easter only.) The joy and spirituality he felt after his coma led him to read and seek out others who had undergone this experience. One thing that set him apart from all the other NDEs was that he entered with NO past memories, and that a loved one did not greet him. You have to read the book to get the amazing answers and the extra back story. This is the first non-fiction book that I have read in...well, I guess my days at FSU. There is some technical jargon in the book, but Dr. Alexander is wonderful at presenting it in "layman's" terms. He also does a wonderful job of illustrating through words the experience that his family was going through during his time in the coma. The book is brilliant and riveting. I wish that there was a way to experience his journey without an NDE, as I think being a little bit more spiritual...knowing that there may be “something out there” and seeing things in a different light... might benefit us all.
Be sure to register as a member at www.killearnlakeshoa.org
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Cyberbullying: Growing Up in a Connected World By Brandon Gonzalez
Today’s children are growing up in a world that is much different her best friend, she met a boy on MySpace named Josh that than that of most adults. Mobile phone and internet use has already convinced her that he really liked her. The arguments with her expermeated the daily lives of countless children. This number is only best friend continued and Megan even began to suspect that the exexpected to increase as the ease of use and access to these technologies friend was spreading bad things about her to Josh. This sent Megan continues to grow. spiraling into a state of For most kids, the depression that educational, creative, became so bad that Parents should be aware of what their productive and social her mother felt she kids are doing online, knowing what experiences provided needed to intervene. by these tools prove One afternoon after sites they visit, and creating an to be positive and Megan realized that understanding with the child that they b enefi ci a l. nobody was going to Unfortunately, being attend her fourteenth may review their online activities. socially connected to birthday party, their peers seemingly due to the constantly can also be abused and result in a negative, or even harmful things that were being posted about her on MySpace, she became so outcome. Activities that were once considered safe and enjoyable can enraged that her mother had to remove her from the computer and become a source of anxiety and depression. According to one study sent her to her room. When Megan’s mother went to her room performed for the Anti-bullying alliance, 22% of young people to get her for dinner she found that she had hung reported to have been the target of cyberbullying at some point. herself in her closet. Tragically, Josh never really Bullying is not a new concept. However, when it happens existed. It was a fake account that had been created by through the use of text messages, emails, social networking sites, and the parents of the friend that she had been arguing other communication technologies it is dubbed cyberbullying. with. Cyberbullying has a few unique characteristics that could be Cyberbullying can be prevented when kids and considered more damaging to a child and often leads to physical parents work together to establish a set of guidelines that bullying. When kids were bullied in the past they could likely find creates a safe online experience. Parents should be aware refuge at home. Today, most households are connected environments of what their kids are doing online, knowing what sites which result in the bully having access to their target twenty-four they visit, and creating an understanding with the child hours every day. In addition to continuous access to their target, the that they may review their online activities. As a means bully has the ability to distribute malicious content to their peers of keeping up with their kids online, some parents have quickly, anonymously, and on a much larger scale. The spread of found it helpful to become “friends” with them on their electronic content is harder to control and the possibility of the social media sites. Parents should do their best to be alert material resurfacing can often prevent the target from moving past to any red flags that may indicate that they are the embarrassment and shame. The ability of a cyberbully to remain cyberbullying or being cyberbullied. One warning sign may anonymous can even result in kids targeting adults or adults targeting be noticeable irritation or agitation after using the internet kids. Nobullying.com published a story of a girl named Megan who or spending time on their mobile phone. If a parent suspects experienced this type of bullying. Megan was a thirteen year old girl that their child is the target of cyberbullying, they should that had struggled with weight and medical issues for years making instruct them not to retaliate or respond to the online attack. it difficult to fit in with her peers. As Megan began eighth grade, Instead, retain the offending text messages, online content, emails, things began looking up for her. Despite having a falling out with or screenshots to use when reporting the incident. Finally, consider
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reporting the abuse to an online service provider, the child’s school if it involves a classmate, or even the police if a potential criminal offence has been committed. To get more tips on how to keep kids safe and secure online, Brandon Gonzalez will be presenting at Killearn Lakes TaeKwonDo on October 26 at 3:00pm to children in second through fifth grade. Brandon earned his Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP®) certification from (ISC)2® and is a volunteer for the (ISC)2 Foundation’s Safe and Secure Online program. This program brings (ISC)2-certified cybersecurity experts into classrooms and/or community organizations worldwide free of charge, and shows them how to become safe and responsible digital citizens. To reserve your spot, call 668-0469 or email ray@killearnlakestkd.com.
Be sure to register as a member at www.killearnlakeshoa.org
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Epiphany Lutheran Preschl A Heart for Christ, Children, & Community In Killearn Lakes By Eric Whitmann
Conveniently located in the Killearn Lakes neighborhood at 8300 Deerlake Road stands Epiphany Lutheran Church & Preschool. Since 2006 the Epiphany Preschool has offered a well-rounded, Christ centered environment which an increasing number of parents are seeking for this important time in their children’s’ lives. Preschoolers are curious, active learners and the curriculum is designed to enhance their natural desire to learn and prepare them for success as they enter Kindergarten. Not “just a daycare,” Epiphany provides the skills children need in language, reading, writing, and math while developing each child’s equally important spiritual, physical, mental, emotional, and social side. Barb Dillon, the Director of Epiphany Preschool, said most of the children’s parents both work full time and they depend daily on Epiphany to provide the best possible care for their children. “Our teachers and aides are fantastic and our children are our most precious gems. We strive to have highly trained, qualified teachers and aides for we realize that the best trained staff deliver the best results.” Barb noted that quality early learning programs also have great impact on a child’s future education. “Being able to enter Kindergarten with problem solving skills as well as social interaction skills are important lessons learned at our preschool. When a preschool relies on play-
based learning and has a skilled teacher who knows how to extend the learning that children naturally engage in, the results are priceless.” Epiphany Lutheran Preschool is nationally accredited and has a credentialed Christian staff. They offer the Wee Learn Curriculum, a faith based, state approved curriculum which emphasizes learning, academic, and life skills through problem solving, hands on experience, communication, interaction, and exploration. They are open 7:00 AM - 6:00 PM weekdays and accept Infants, Wobblers, Toddlers, 2 year olds, 3 year olds, and 4 year olds (VPK). Due to increasing demand they have recently opened an additional infant room. For more information please call the preschool at 850-3859822 or go online at www.epiphanystar.org. If you’d like to informally check out the preschool or just meet your neighbors for some family style fun, come to Epiphany’s Oktoberfest Saturday October 25, 2014 from 3-7 PM. There will be German food, music, games, free pony rides, bounce houses, and much more. Epiphany Lutheran Church & Preschool has a heart for Christ, children and community in the heart of Killearn Lakes at 8300 Deer Lake Road.
Be sure to register as a member at www.killearnlakeshoa.org 23
Annual Fall Festival at Tekesta Park Saturday, November 1, 2014
The annual Fall Festival will be held Saturday, November 1st from 11:00 am until 3:00 pm at Tekesta Park. Entertainment will be provided by BJ’s Party House/Klown Kapers, Killearn Kids Dance Troupe, Killearn Lakes TaeKwonDo, Pro Disc Jockeys and Meyer Magic. As always, there will be a Casting Contest for the kids, as well as games and the Kiddie Train from Bouncers. For lunch, our favorite chefs from Auto SuperService Center will cook hamburgers, The Grounds Guys will cook hot dogs, and we will have Chick-Fil-A nuggets, too. The Kona Ice truck will offer Tropical Shaved Ice, so bring a little money for a cool treat. Please bring a dessert or side item (and the recipe!) to share. We would
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like to feature your recipe in a future issue of “Lakes View” magazine. Please do not bring chips, as the association provides plenty of those. Sponsors and your dues fund this event. An entry ticket will be mailed this month to all residents in good standing. Please bring the admission ticket to the registration table when you arrive. We need volunteers to make this event a success. Adults and teens are welcome--your help can make all the difference! Please call the office at 850668-3231 or email us admin@killearnlakeshoa.org if you can help. See you at the park November 1st.
Be sure to register as a member at www.killearnlakeshoa.org 25
What’s In A Number
By: Deputy Tim Randolph Leon County Sheriff ’s Office
In September of 2013, the individual dispatch operations for the Leon County Sheriff ’s Office, Leon County EMS, Tallahassee Police Department and Tallahassee Fire Department were merged under one roof to create the Consolidated Dispatch Agency (CDA). The primary goals of this move were to better communication between agencies and most importantly, reduce response times for calls for service. By consolidating the dispatch functions, it allows for the closest unit to be dispatched and respond to the scene. This saves time and in many cases, lives as well. The merger also allows for all agencies to share the same radio channels and allows for better communication and cooperation when it comes to response to calls for service. The biggest change for the general public is that now there is one central telephone number to call for Non-Emergency law enforcement, EMS and fire services. The telephone number to the CDA is (850) 606-5800. Call takers are assigned to answer calls and within a few seconds determine what the issue is and which discipline is needed to respond. For immediate assistance in emergency situations such as in progress crimes, medical emergencies or fires the public should dial 911 and provide as much information as necessary to the call taker. One other change that should be noted is to the main telephone number to the Leon County Sheriff ’s Office administrative offices. The number has changed to (850) 606-3300. This number should be utilized for the administrative functions of the Sheriff ’s Office such as Uniform Patrol Operations, Criminal Investigations, Warrants, Special Operations and Human Resources. Please make note of these numbers or for more information, you can visit our website at: www.leoncountyso.com.
Beyond the Bark By: USA Weekend
Q. A.
OF KILLEARN LAKES KLHOA is offering rewards up to $2,000.00 for information that leads to the arrest and conviction of person or persons committing acts of vandalism and property damage within Killearn Lakes. The Board does not take this lightly as we are spending at least $12,000 to $15,000 of your dues money each year correcting vandalism and property damage incidents. 26 Lakes View / Issue 67 / October 2014
My neighbor has gifted the neighborhood with a dog that barks incessantly. After 48 hours of non-stop barking, I was sure this poor creature was being neglected. Aside from calling the police, do you have an idea? –L.W., San Diego
Before enlisting the long arm of the law, try a civil discussion with the neighbors- a barking dog intervention. They may truly be unaware the dog is barking incessantly while they’re away, and how neighbors are being affected. Ask another neighbor to join you, and get signatures from others. Express your concern for the dog, rather than focusing on your annoyance. Dogs bark to communicate. It may be that moving to a new place and being left alone is causing the dog’s anxiety. Or perhaps this dog has always had separation issues. The good news: A vet can provide tools to help calm this pet. –Steve Dale
Designated printer of the “Lakes View” Magazine
een Corner Classifieds PET SITTING AND DOG WALKING – Pet Sitting and Dog Walking Day or Night Call Karlee Jones at 933-1610. BABYSITTERS – Experienced 12-year-old Sitter and Mothers Helper. Prefer watching ages 4-9yrs. I love kids and I am very responsible. Bonus: household jobs such as folding laundry, dishes or tidy up your home. $3-5/hour. Available weekdays from 4-8 p.m. Sat. 10:30-4:30 p.m. and Sun. 1-8 p.m. Summer hours are more flexible. Can provide my own transportation. Call Emily at (850) 894-0421. BABYSITTER & PETSITTER – ATTENTION to anyone who needs a reliable, hardworking, and responsible baby or petsitter! My name is Rachel Stadtfeld and I would love to come and watch your precious kiddos or pets! Call me anytime, even on short notice, for any occasion you may need to go out for! I am 17 years old and have much experience with children (past nanny) and pets (have 3)! I attend school at Chiles High and live in Golden Eagle. I am a licensed driver and a great student. For a fun and safe time for your children (of all ages) and pets (of all types) please don't hesitate to call me at 727-742-3856. :) BABYSITTER & PETSITTER – Responsible, mature and enthusiastic 16 & 17 year old Chiles High School students, TMH certified available for babysitting and/or pet sitting. Please call Gabby & Claudia (850) 893 2342. BABYSITTERS – My name is Delaney Stoner and I am a 18 year old senior at Chiles High School student. I love kids, I am great with them, and I have references available upon request. I am able to babysit in the Golden Eagle-Killearn Lakes area at anytime! Please feel free to call me whenever you need a babysitter at 850-841-0837! BABYSITTER – Reliable and experienced 13 year old; certified as babysitter by American Red Cross. Available most times during the summer and nights/weekends during the school year. Can provide my own transportation. Please call (850) 508-6819.
BABYSITTER – Hi! My name is Katelyn McClellan and I am 19 years old. I am great with kids and have babysitting experience. I prefer to babysit kids 4 & older. I live in Golden Eagle and I have a car so I can drive to your house to babysit. Please Call :). My phone number is : (850)228-6339. BABYSITTER & PETSITTER – Hello my name is Nina, and I am 18 years old.. I'm responsible, good with kids and I can also dog sit! Please Contact me at: (850)228-3669. BABYSITTER – You do so much for your kids you need a break. I am an experienced 12 year old babysitter. I am CPR trained, American Red Cross certified, reliable, and most of all funJ! I am available weekdays 4-7:30 p.m and weekends at any time. I will babysit ages 19 and will also babysit babies or toddlers with permission from my parents. Please call Molly Siddall at (850)445-9143. BABYSITTER – Experienced, Mature and Responsible recent Chiles Graduate is available for babysitting. Reasonable rates. References available. Call Susanne Childers at (850) 459-4647.
Teen girl, available for petsitting, house-cleaning, babysitting, or mother's helper. Very responsible, and has experience. Call Bethany at 893-9313. MOTHERS HELPER & BABYSITTER
Experienced 11 year old babysitter and mothers helper! Loves kids and very responsible. Available Saturdays and Sundays anytime! Ages 3- 8 only. Will provide own transportation. Please call Maisy Ivory at 850-385-7717
Note: These ads are complimentary and available to student teens of our community involved in weekend and after school entrepreneurial projects. Ads must be renewed for each issue. Please call the office at 668-3231, if you want to edit or continue your ad. Thank you.
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