Winter Garden
magazine June/July 2013
It’s About the Patient Douglas E. Gearity, M.D. The Women’s Center of Orlando
Winter Garden, Florida where good things grow
2 | June/July 2013 WinterGardenMag.com
contents
meetings & such... Meetings below are held at WinterGarden City Hall unless otherwise noted. If you have a meeting you’d like to announce, please email us at WinterGardenMag@gmail.com
6/3 Mon. 6:30 p.m. Planning & Zoning Board 6/4 Tues. 6:15 p.m. Code Enforcement Board 6/5, 6/12, 6/19 & 6/26 Wednesdays 8:30 am Development & Review Committee 6/11 Tues. 5 p.m. Community Redevelopment Area & Brownfield Advisory Board 6/13 & 6/27 Thurs. 6:30 p.m. City Commission Meeting 6/18 Tues. 6:30 p.m. Architectural Review & Historical Preservation Board 7/1 Mon. 6:30 p.m. Planning & Zoning Board 7/2 Tues. 6:15 p.m. Code Enforcement Board 7/3,7/10, 7/17, 7/24 & 7/31 Wednesdays 8:30 a.m. Development &Review Committee 7/9 Tues. 5:00 p.m. Community Redevelopment Area & Brownfield Advisory Board 7/11 & 7/25 Thurs. 6:30 p.m. City Commission Meeting 7/16 Tues. 6:30 p.m. Architectural Review & Historical Preservation Board
_____________________________ La Leche League of Winter Garden 2nd Tues of each month 10:00 a.m. Various parenting topics presented. Mothers & Mothers-to-Be Welcome Church of Christ 1450 Daniels Rd, Winter Garden _____________________________
Have Fun & Learn Something New at the
Winter Garden Library Events below will be held at the Winter Garden Library Visit www.OCLS.info for more info & classes. Some events may require reservations & fees. 6/10 Mon. 10:30 a.m. Photoshop Level 1 12:15 p.m. Photoshop Level 2 2:12 p.m. Photoshop Level 3 4:45 p.m. Photoshop Level 4 6/11 Tues. 1:30 p.m. HTML5 Level 1 : Learn the basics of web design. (Adults)
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a closer look Dr. Douglas E. Gearity M.D. The Women’s Center of Orlando It’s About the Patient
12
real estate spotlight
14
natural stone care
Winter Garden magazine is an activity of Stern Media PO Box 1506, Windermere FL 34786
WinterGardenMag.com SternMedia.com
6/13 Thurs 2:p.m. Etsy.com - Learn how to buy & sell handmade items on Etsy.com (for Adults)
Publisher | J. Steven Stern | 407 574-8742
Wednesdays at 10:15 a.m. Storybook Fun for Your Little One Read-aloud program for ages 3 to 5. Will last about 25 minutes. Bring your children often to enjoy tales, rhymes and big book stories.
Copy Editor & Graphic Design Mike Cox | MCox@SternMedia.com
Editor | Elise Carter | 407 574-8742 ECarter@SternMedia.com
Advertising Jon Stern | 407 574-8742 Jon.Stern@Outlook.com Jon@SternMedia.com Winter Garden Magazine/SternMedia does not assume liability for products or services advertised herein. The views expressed in the magazine are not necessarily those of SternMedia and while every attempt is made to assure the accuracy and authenticity of information appearing in the magazine, SternMedia accepts no liability for damages caused by misinterpretation of information, expressed or implied, within the magazine. No representation is made or warranty given as to the completeness or accuracy of such information. The content of Winter Garden Magazine is copyrighted by SternMedia. It is strictly prohibited to reproduce or transmit in whole or part, any portion of our print or on-line magazine/content without the express written consent of SternMedia.
WinterGardenMag.com June/July 2013 | 3
around the garden 6/3 - 8/18
The Photographs of B.P. Hannon Winter Garden Public Library
Professional photographer B.P. Hannon documented the people , places and events of Winter Garden via thousands of images taken from 1959 through 1974. Parades, dances, aerial vistas and sporting events are just some of the pieces in this priceless visual memoir. Photographs will be on display at the Winter Garden Library, 805 East Plant St., Winter Garden from June 3rd through August 18, 2013.
Now - 8/9
Art in Public Places at City Hall Winter Garden in Bloom: A Reflection of the 13th Annual Spring Fever in the Garden Exhibit The City of Winter Garden and the Bloom & Grow Garden Society present the “Winter Garden in Bloom” exhibit, a reflection of the thirteenth annual Soring Fever in the Garden Festival.. The exhibit will feature original interpretations of greenery and floral landscapes in Winter Garden that were created by local artists of all ages. The exhibit will include over 20 pieces of are in various mediums and processes. The exhibit runs now through August 9, 2013.
Fridays on the Plaza Every Friday 7 -9 p.m. Featuring a different toe-tappin’ music genre each week. Join us at the Centennial Gazebo on West Plant Street, Downtown Winter Garden
4 | June/July 2013 WinterGardenMag.com
Cruz-N-Car Show Third Saturday of each month. 7 - 9 p.m. on West Plant Street Rev up your engine and join us downtown for this fun car show. Classic, Hot-Rod, Muscle Cars and more. Cash prizes and trophies. Free Admission. Registration 3:30-5:30 pm. Show times 5:30 - 8:30 pm. Call 407 656-6646 for more info.
July 4th
Celebrate America!
10th Annual Kids Bike Parade Breakfast served 8:00 -10:00 a.m. at the Winter Garden Masonic Lodge, 230 Bay St. Winter Garden Parade at 10:00 a.m. See Page 6 for more information.
The City of Winter Garden Presents
PARTY IN THE PARK
5:00 p.m. Festivities 9:15 Fireworks Newton Park, 29 West Garden Ave.
FREE!
You’re Invited! Want to invite your ne ighbors to your next event? Please send event no tices to WinterGarden Mag @ gmail.com. Please be sure to include contac t information. High-re solution photos or ev ent flyers are also accetped . Events should be open to the public.
WinterGardenMag.com June/July 2013 | 5
10th Annual All American Kids Parade & Breakfast - July 4th
Free decorations are provided for children to decorate bikes, wagons, scooters or themselves. Battery powered bikes not allowed. Decoration donations can be dropped off at the Winter Garden Masonic Lodge on West Bay St, WG Heritage Foundation or Grace’s Gifts on Main St. Breakfast 8 am at WG Masonic Lodge (kids eat free) Parade at 10 am (line-up at 9:45) Call 407 656-3244 for more information.
The City of Winter Garden Presents
PARTY IN THE PARK
July 4th - 5:00 p.m. Festivities 9:15 Fireworks Newton Park, 29 West Garden Ave. Winter Garden
KidMD Pediatrics, LLC Protecting the health of our future, one precious child at a time.©
Ruben A. Gonzalez-Florin,MD,FAAP Pediatrician, Board Certified
Dedicated to the health & well-being of newborns to 18 years.
Accepting New Patients Camp and School Physicals Available *
*
Orlando Health Affiliation NewborN CirCumCisioNs up to 20 days old MWF: 8:30-3:30P T-TH: 8:30-7:00P SATurdAy SICK APPTS: 8:30 - 11:30A 24 Hr ON-CALL FOr EMErGENCIES
407 347-6144
13848 Tilden rd Suite 230 Winter Garden, FL 34787
www.kidmdpediatrics.com
6 | June/July 2013 WinterGardenMag.com
13 Years of Trusted Service by Elise Carter
With nearly a century of combined experience helping residents of Winter Garden and West Orange County, owner B.Jo Accordino along with Elizabeth Hensley and Vicki Hardy (formerly of Windermere Insurance Agency) remain committed to bringing you the best insurance coverage and service at the best price for your individual needs.
Elizabeth Hensley, B.Jo Accordino, Vicki Hardy
“I’ve been an insurance agent in the Orlando area since 1979,” explains owner B.Jo Accordino. “I first worked with national direct writing companies as a captive agent. In 2000, I partnered with a local Independent Agency - Windermere Insurance Agency - and set up a separate office in Winter Garden” After just four years, B. Jo bought out her partners and became the sole owner of West Orange Insurance Agency. “We will be celebrating our 13th Anniversary this summer and have grown with Winter Garden as it has grown over the last decade. Winter Garden has so much to offer and we enjoy being a part of the community.”
West Orange Insurance specializes in personal lines of insurance: Auto, Home, Boat, RV, Umbrella & Motorcycles. B.Jo says, “As an independent agent, we contract with many companies to find the right fit for each policyholder. We do the shopping for you. Insurance may not be the most exciting or glamorous purchase that you’ll make, so we try to make it easy for you.” B.Jo, Elizabeth and Vicki pride themselves on service. “We enjoy getting to know you and are happy to answer your questions to find solutions for the risks you face.” Stop by the office or give B.Jo, Elizabeth or Vicki a call today. They’ll be happy to review your current situation.
West Orange Insurance
14101 W. Colonial Dr. Winter Garden, FL 34787 407 905-5080 Fax: 407 905-5083 Email: Info@WestOrangeIns.com www.WestOrangeIns.com
WinterGardenMag.com June/July 2013 | 7
people | a closer look
It’s About the Patient
a closer look at Douglas E. Gearity, M.D. The Women’s Center of Orlando
Douglas E. Gearity, M.D. The Women’s Center of Orlando
“With all that is happening in health care today, it is critical to remember that the focus of any medical practice is the patient.” Douglas Edward Gearity, MD, F.A.C.O.G. is the founder and Medical Director of The Women’s Center of Orlando, an Obstetrics and Gynecology practice with seven offices in the Central Florida area. Dr. Gearity, with his team of Physicians, Certified Midwives, Physician Assistants , and Nursing Staff have been serving the Orlando community since 2001. The Women’s Center has expanded and opened up new offices while many other medical practices in the area are struggling. We asked Dr. Gearity if he would explain how The Women’s Center of Orlando seems to be thriving in challenging times. “I think our Mission Statement explains quite a bit; Dedicated to the health and wellness of the women in our community, providing best medical practices and cutting-edge technology, emphasizing comfort, convenience and compassion.” “You provide the best medical practices with highly trained medical staff that are focused on providing the best care to our patients. Our physicians, Wilfredo Vega, MD F.A.C.O.G., Yasmine Kareem, MD F.A.C.O.G., Shene Dozier-Allen, MD F.A.C.O.G., Jeffrey Feld, MD F.A.C.O.G, Alejando Pena, MD F.A.C.O.G., Sherra Forde-Kelly, MD, and Lee Smyk, MD were all recruited by me because of their technical expertise, reputation, focus on providing the best care to the patient, and ability to function as a team. Our doctors work together, as a team, sharing experiences, keeping current on all medical advances. Our patients don’t just have a doctor; they have an entire medical team working for them.” 8 | June/July 2013 WinterGardenMag.com
Q. There is a trend today for women to use a midwife for child delivery as opposed to a physician. I noticed that you have two midwives on staff. What is your opinion? “Midwives are able to individualize the obstetrical care for the patient by being there more, and helping her push. We team up the midwife with a physician. There are things my physicians can do for you at the hospital, including surgery that the midwife can’t do. Our
The Women’s Center of Orlando - Hunter’s Creek
Certified Midwives do vaginal deliveries in the hospital in conjunction with the physician, as opposed to a midwife doing deliveries at a birthing center. If an issue occurs at a birthing center, they could transfer the patient(s) to a hospital… then the hospital may attempt to find a physician that can take over, and that timespan
The Women’s Center of Orlando
can sometimes lead to problems. With us, we’re right there, already in the hospital. So if you want a midwife, we have that option with all the necessary precautions in place.” “We have 2 midwives on staff, and make complimentary birthing classes available to all our obstetric patients. Of our 7 doctors, 3 are female OB GYNs—Dr. Kareem, Dr. Allen and Dr. Forde-Kelly. At night, generally, there’s a female physician and a male physician on call so we take care of all of our patients’ personal preferences.”
Orlando-Clermont-St.Cloud Hunter’s Creek-Oviedo-Ocoee Lake Mary
407 857-2502
www.wcorlando.com Convenient Office Hours
Q. I understand you have offices in Hunter’s Creek, St. Cloud, Downtown Orlando, Ocoee, Winter Park, Clermont and Lake Mary. Which hospitals do you use for child delivery? “We deliver at Winnie Palmer Hospital where the level 3 nursery Newborn Intensive Care Unit (“NICU”) is located. We just feel it’s the best place if there are any
M-F 7:30 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. Saturday 8:00 - 1:00 p.m. Most Commercial Insurance Accepted
issues. That’s why we picked Winnie Palmer for deliveries, and since our offices are everywhere around Orlando, we’re always there! We can deliver at the outlying hospitals but if the newborn has to be transferred to the NICU things can happen and the baby is separated from the mother. It’s important that we’re always prepared for the worst case scenario.” (continued on page 10) WinterGardenMag.com June/July 2013 | 9
(continued from page 9)
Q. On your website, you mention in-office procedures. What types of procedures do you do in-office as opposed to a hospital setting or surgery center? “We do tubal occlusions (tying the tubes) and have been doing them 7 years in-office. We were the first practice to do the procedure in the office in the State of Florida. Where most people think ‘hospital’, it’s now just a day out of work. We do it here in the office—even on Saturday! It’s convenient for the patient and their family. They can come in for contraception, birth control and family planning – which are key words now on the landscape – but as we’ve been doing this for 7 years, we’re way ahead of the curve in that aspect.” “Another procedure we do in-office is in vitro ablation for abnormal bleeding. We were leaders in 1996 as one of the first to introduce this procedure into the office. Patients can come in 6 days a week to have us help decrease or stop abnormal bleeding, a common occurrence when you’re finished having children. The most common surgery in America is a hysterectomy, and the most common reason for it happens to be abnormal bleeding. In many cases we can help our patients avoid a hysterectomy and the resulting complications and healing time. Many times a patient experiences abnormal bleeding that impacts their career and overall quality of life. It is important that as medical professionals we listen to our patients, and provide the best solutions available.“ Q. In your mission statement you mention Cutting-Edge Technology. What distinguishes your practice in this area? “The Women’s Center invests a great deal of money in technology. To provide the best care to our patients we utilize the most technologically advanced equipment.” “For example, we were the first private practice in the State of Florida to get 4D Ultrasounds. Every office has its own 4D ultrasound and certified sonographer on staff. Each time an obstetrics patient comes in for a visit she receives a complimentary ultrasound and a picture of the baby. Complimentary means we don’t get paid for doing it. Why we do it is simple. It provides 10 | June/July 2013 WinterGardenMag.com
comfort to our patients seeing the baby every visit. Not only does Mom get to bond with the baby but Dad and the rest of the family gets that opportunity to bond, too! We installed large screen high definition monitors for mom and family. They get the pictures and see the baby grow from a tiny fetus to 7-pound baby. This practice also allows us to more closely monitor the pregnancy. We are able to detect problems earlier and check to be sure the baby is growing properly.” Timely information enables the staff at The Women’s Center to detect and treat issues that could affect the health of Moms and their babies.
Dr. Gearity demonstrates state-of-the-art ultrasound equipment. “We also do minimally invasive hysterectomies using Da Vinci the robot—so if we have to do it, we go through the belly button. The majority of our patients arrive, have the surgery at 7:30 in the morning and they’re home by 3 in the afternoon. They do the procedure and they go home that day. 10 years ago you went to the hospital for 5 days and then you were out of work for 6 weeks! I’ve seen patients out shopping the day after this surgery… I kind of mockscold them, ‘You know you’re not supposed to be out…’ and I get that ‘Yeah, I know’ look and a shoulder shrug.” “We use Endoeye Flexible Scopes; while much more expensive than the typical Rigid Scope, the comfort level for the patient is much greater.” Q. What makes the experience at the Women’s Center different on the “Comfort, Convenience and Compassion” elements?
“With today’s busy lifestyles, The Women’s Center strives to respect family members’ time constraints and responsibilities by
keeping longer office hours at their easily-accessible office locations and minimizing the amount of time spent in our
waiting rooms. Not many offices around Orlando are open on Saturdays to make office visits more convenient for working families. We are open 6 days a week, Monday through Friday 7:30 am to 6 pm and Saturdays 8:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.” “The Women’s Center has an outside provider that makes regular visits to the Hunter’s Creek office with a mobile mammogram unit. You can get a mammogram and a pap smear in one visit. I don’t think anyone else offers that. We also DEXA scan here for osteoporosis, and do ultrasounds… So basically, it’s a full service building. We will be expanding the mammogram convenience to our other locations as well.” “We provide concierge service without additional cost to our patients. Our patients are able to see physicians at any of our offices. If there is a problem or a concern, they can get in to see a provider. We work as a team.” “Our offices are beautifully furnished with comfortable seating, equipped with the latest equipment, and staffed with highly trained personnel that understand the comfort of the patient is critical to their experience and that a patient’s time is valuable and should be respected.”
The Women’s Center of Orlando Douglas E. Gearity, M.D. Orlando - Clermont - St.Cloud Hunter’s Creek - Oviedo Ocoee - Lake Mary
407 857-2502
www.wcorlando.com
Grill UP
a Father’s Day Feast
(Family Features)
Make Father’s Day special by combining two of Dad’s favorite things – sweet treats and the grill. Hot dogs have gone gourmet and a big, juicy hamburger or steak is a tried-and-true classic. But, this year, show Dad how much you love him with a healthy twist on two American favorites – the chicken wing and watermelon. If Dad is usually the one manning the grill, review these simple tips for cooking chicken outdoors before you begin: • Preheat the grill on high. • Make sure the grate is well oiled to prevent sticking. • Transport the chicken to the grill on one plate and use a clean plate to take the prepared food back to the kitchen. • Use tongs to turn the chicken instead of a fork, which may tear the meat. • Keep the grill covered as much as possible for quicker, more even cooking. • Have a spray bottle filled with water handy in case of a flare up. • Once you remove the chicken from the grill, allow it to “rest” for five minutes so it will retain its Chipotle Maple Citrus Watermelon Wings juices when cut. Get the kids involved in the meal preparation by creating a fun dessert. They can use a small ice cream scoop or melon baller to scoop out watermelon, cantaloupe or honeydew. Serve the cool, refreshing treat in a pretty bowl or thread the melon balls onto skewers. Slices of watermelon can also be cut into fun shapes with cookie cutters. Add the shapes to the plate for a fun garnish or place one or two on the rim of a glass to add a festive flair. Grilling out is a time-honored tradition so fire up the charcoal and let the celebration begin. Look for more fun ways to enjoy watermelon and sign up for a free newsletter, at www.watermelon.org.
Watermelon Glaze: 2 cups watermelon puree Juice from 3 fresh lemons 1 tablespoon lemon zest 1/2 cup maple syrup (can use light version) 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon 1/2 teaspoon ground chipotle pepper, or to taste Chicken: Chicken wings or drumettes 2 cups pineapple juice 1/2 cup soy sauce 1 tablespoon minced fresh ginger 3 cloves minced fresh garlic To prepare the watermelon glaze, simmer ingredients together in a heavy saucepan for 20 minutes or until sauce is thick. Makes 2 cups. Keep warm. To prepare the chicken, place the chicken in a large zipper lock bag with rest of the ingredients and seal tightly. Allow to marinate at least 2 hours or up to 12. Grill until cooked and arrange on a warm platter. Pour the glaze over the chicken and serve immediately.
WinterGardenMag.com June/July 2013 | 11
real estate & lifestyle Florida’s Housing Market Gains Strength in Q1 ORLANDO, Fla., - Florida’s housing market gained strength in first quarter 2013 with increased closed sales, more pending sales, higher median prices and a reduced supply of homes for sale compared to the same quarter in 2012, according to the latest housing data released by Florida Realtors®. “The first three months of 2013 demonstrate that Florida’s housing market is gaining momentum and continuing to bolster the state’s economy,” said 2013 Florida Realtors President Dean Asher, broker-owner with Don Asher & Associates Inc. in Orlando. “More people went back to work as more jobs were created in Florida during the first quarter, and our population is also growing –which provide a solid foundation for growth in the housing market. It’s taking less time to sell a home and, coupled with tight inventory, that shows buyers are eager to lock in historically low mortgage interest rates and take advantage of favorable, but rising prices.”
“We expect that the year-over-year increases ...will continue into 2014..” Florida Realtors Chief Economist Dr. John Tucillo
Statewide closed sales of existing single-family homes totaled 48,976 in 1Q 2013, up 10.2 percent compared to the year-ago figure, according to data from Florida Realtors Industry Data and Analysis department in partnership with local Realtor boards/associations. Closed sales typically occur 30 to 90 days after sales contracts are written. Meanwhile, pending sales – contracts that are signed but not yet completed or closed – for existing single-family homes rose 26.8 percent in the first quarter compared to the 1Q 2012 figure. The statewide median sales price for single-family existing homes in 1Q 2013 was $153,000, up 13.4 percent from the same quarter a year ago. The median is the midpoint; half the homes sold for more, half for less. Housing industry analysts note that sales of foreclosures and other distressed properties downwardly distort the median price because they generally sell at a discount relative to traditional homes. Looking at Florida’s year-to-year comparison for sales of townhouse-condos, a total of 24,655 units sold statewide in the first quarter, up 3.2 percent from the first three months of 2012. Pending sales for townhouse-condos in 1Q 2013 increased 13.7 percent compared to a year ago, while the statewide median for townhouse-condo properties was $116,000, up 18.4 percent over the same quarter last year.
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In 1Q 2013, the median days on market (the midpoint of the number of days it took for a property to sell that month) was 60 days for both single-family homes and for townhouse-condo properties. The inventory for single-family homes stood at a 5.3-months’ supply for 1Q 2013; inventory for townhouse-condos was at a 5.8-months’ supply for the same period, according to Florida Realtors. Florida Realtors Chief Economist Dr. John Tuccillo said, “In a sense, these numbers are old news since we release the monthly numbers separately. But they are important in that they confirm the sales and price trends we have seen shaping up in the market. If you look back at the quarterly numbers, comparing year to year, you see, at least in single-family sales, the steadiness of the market since 2009. We expect that the year-overyear increases we have seen for the past several years will continue into 2014.” According to Freddie Mac, the interest rate for a 30-year fixed-rate mortgage averaged 3.50 percent for 1Q 2013 down from the previous year’s average of 3.92 percent, according to Freddie Mac. Reprinted with permission. Florida Realtors. All rights reserved.
Winter Garden Real Estate Spotlight 34787 04/15/13 - 05/15/13 Active Listings: 178 List Price Range: $39,950 - $3,999,900 Traditional Sales: 58 Sold: 76 Highest Resale: $899,000 5 Bdrm/ 3/2 Baths - 4758 SF 530 Largovista Dr., 34787 Johns Landing Information per MidFlorida Region MLS
Just Sold
Largovista Drive | $399,900 | 3,457 Sq.Ft. 4 Bedrooms 4/1 Baths | 3 Days on Market Johns Landing S/D List Broker: Keller Williams Classic Realty Selling Broker: Repro Realty Inc.
English Lake Dr. | $410,000 | 3,252 Sq. Ft. 4 Bedrooms 3 Baths | 5 Days on Market Westfield Lakes S/D List Broker: Coldwell Banker Residential Selling Broker: ReMax 200 Realty
WinterGardenMag.com June/July 2013 | 13
Easy Care for Your Natural Stone (Family Features) Stone countertops and floors, such as granite, marble and other natural stone, have long been loved for the sophisticated and luxurious appearance they add to kitchens and bathrooms. A natural product made by the Earth, natural stone counters and floors come in an endless range of colors accented with unique veins, swirls and crystals. The advantages of stone go beyond just its beautiful appearance and the investment in improving a home’s value. Natural stone is resistant to scratching, more sanitary than other surfaces, durable, and easy to maintain. But easy does not mean maintenance-free. There are steps homeowners need to take in order to protect their investment. “Preserving the beauty of natural stone requires proper care and attention,” said Lenny Sciarrino, a third-generation stone-care expert and co-founder of Granite Gold brand stone-care products. “In fact, many ordinary cleaners are harsh and abrasive, which will have damaging effects on natural stone surfaces.” Cleaning, sealing and polishing are the three essential steps required to keep natural stone looking as beautiful as the day it was installed. Clean often. Even if your surface appears clean, it should be cleaned daily and after every meal preparation. Avoid common cleaners and abrasives, which can break down the protective seal. The result could be costly repairs or even replacement. It’s also important to use 14 | June/July 2013 WinterGardenMag.com
a cleaner, such as Granite Gold Daily Cleaner, that is pH balanced, non-toxic, biodegradable and safe for use on all food-preparation surfaces. Check the integrity of the seal. There is a common misperception that natural stone surfaces can be damaged by too much sealing. However, frequent sealing maintains maximum surface protection, which provides superior, long-lasting resistance to staining, etching and soil build-up. Check the integrity of the seal of your granite with an at-home water test. Pour enough water on your stone to create a circle 3 inches in diameter then repeat in several different locations. Let the water sit for 30 minutes before wiping it away and checking for any dark marks or rings. These indicate the water is penetrating the stone and it’s time to reseal. Polish regularly. Polishing your stone after cleaning brings out its natural beauty and reinforces the protective seal, which provides ongoing protection against water spots and fingerprints. Polishing is particularly important on stone shower walls and tub surrounds to help prevent soap scum build-up. Polishing stone floors is not recommended as it will make the walking surface slick and dangerous. If you have questions about granite cleaning or the care and maintenance of any other natural stone counters, floors and other surfaces, ask the experts at Granite Gold. Submit your questions on Facebook and Twitter or email them at StoneCareExperts@GraniteGold.com.
Call Today for your Free No Obligation Value Analysis.
Multi-Million Dollar Producers 8 year Winter Garden Residents Selling Winter Garden since 2004
And you’ll never pay 6% Commission! Who better knows Winter Garden than someone who lives here!
Linda A. Stern Broker | Realtor
The Stern Group
professional real estate services 407 376.2434 Info@FlaOrlando.com www.FlaOrlando.com
WinterGardenMag.com June/July 2013 | 15
ARTHUR ’S
C R E AT I V E E V E N T S & C AT E R I N G
the life of the party! We’re passionate about parties —especially yours.
Contact Arthur’s today and let us bring your party to life. n
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Wedding Receptions
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Bar/Bat Mitzvahs
Call 407.331.1993 or visit www.arthurscatering.com