March 2014 issue

Mar

ch 2

014

ever

ythi

ngla

ke.c

om

finalists for Rookie Teacher

of the Year, Pg 16 - 17

Kathy’s CaféPg 18 - 19

Meeting buyer demands in a

seller’s market: pg 10 - 11

C E N T R A L F L O R I D A ’ S H E A D Q U A R T E R S

SALES HOURS: Mon-Fri: 9am-8pm, Sat: 9am-7pm • Sun: Noon-5:00pm SERVICE HOURS: Monday-Saturday: 8:00am-5:00pm

OFFERS ON SELECT MODELS, WITH APPROVED CREDIT THRU FORD MOTOR CREDIT. PAYMENTS REFLECT 39 MO. LEASE ON ALL VEHICLES WITH 10,000 MILES PER YEAR AND $0 DOWN ON 2014 FORD FUSION AND 10,500 MILES PER YEAR AND $0 DOWN ON 2014 FORD FOCUS AND 2014 FORD ESCAPE. PLUS TAX, TAG, REGISTRATION AND $599 DEALER FEE ON ALL VEHICLES. NO SECURITY DEPOSIT. *OFFERS ON SELECT MODELS, WITH APPROVED CREDIT THRU FORD MOTOR CREDIT. +REQUIRES THE PURCHASE OR LEASE OF A NEW FORD FROM PRESTIGE FORD. LIMIT 1 PER CUSTOMER PER TRANSACTION. ALL PAYMENTS INCLUDE ALL APPLICABLE FACTORY REBATES AND INCENTIVES. DEALER RETAINS ALL FACTORY REBATES AND INCENTIVES. SEE DEALER FOR DETAILS. ENDS 3/31/14.

ALL OFFERS WITH APPROVED CREDIT AND PLUS TAX, TAG, REGISTRATION, TITLE & DEALER FEES. PHOTOS FOR ILLUSTRATION PURPOSES ONLY. VEHICLES SUBJECT TO PRIOR SALE. SEE DEALER FOR DETAILS..OFFERS EXPIRE 3/31/14.

PRESTIGE-FORD.com 352-357-5522

17701 Highway 441, Mount Dora, FL 32757 “Se Habla

Español”

O$ DOWNPAYMENT O$ DUE AT

SIGNING O$ 1st MONTH’SPAYMENT***

T H E A L L -N E W

MT. DORAMT. DORA

NEW 2014 FORD FOCUS$ 209 /M O.*

NEW 2014 FORD FUSION NEW 2014 FORD ESCAPELease for

$ 199 /M O.*

Lease for

$ 169 /M O.*

Lease for

PLUS FREE iPAD+

PLUS FREE iPAD+

PLUS FREE iPAD+

Per month for 39 months with $0 downNo security deposit required. Taxes, title and license fees extra.

Q U A L I T Y P R E - O W N E D V E H I C L E S O N S A L E ! W E ’ R E S T A C K I N ’ T H E M D E E P A N D S E L L I N ’ T H E M C H E A P !

T H E A L L -N E W

MT. DORAMT. DORA

WE’LL BUYYOUR TRADEEVEN IF YOU DON’T BUY FROM US!

2013 FORD FLEX SEL

$ 23,550

2007 KIA SPORTAGE LX

$ 10,9952008 GMC SIERRA 1500 SLT

$ 20,950

2002 FORD F-150 XL

$ 9,9952013 DODGE GRAND CARAVAN SXT

$ 19,995

2003 DODGE RAM 1500

$ 8,9502010 MERCURY MARINER PREMIER

$ 19,950

2007 PONTIAC G5 GT

$ 7,649

2010 FORD MUSTANG V6

$ 18,995

2002 MERCURY SABLE LS PREMIUM

$ 6,995

2007 CHEVROLET AVEO LT

$ 6,950

2008 GMC ACADIA SLE1

$ 16,912

2003 MERCURY GRAND MARQUIS

$ 6,749

1998 FORD EXPEDITION XLT

$ 4,9502013 JEEP GRAND CHEROKEE LAREDO

$ 25,987MT. D O RAMT. D O RA

OCALA

APOPKA

OCALA

LEESBURG MT. DORALEESBURG

THEVILLAGES

THEVILLAGES

MT. DORA

APOPKA

441

441



172-Point Inspection by Factory-Trained TechniciansFactory-Backed 7-year/100,00-Mile Powertrain Warranty Coverage

2010 FORD FOCUS SE

$ 10,802STK#P4271

2010 FORD FUSION SE

$ 14,950STK#P4295

2013 FORD TAURUS SEL

$ 22,956STK#P4294

2012 FORD FUSION SE

$ 16,850STK#P4296

2011 FORD ESCAPE LIMITED

$ 18,960STK#DT14180A

INSIDE THIS ISSUE March 2014

7 Women’s style: Expert advice for dressing and feeling more confident

8 -9 Five simple steps to being a great pet owner

10 -11 Meeting buyer demands in a seller’s market

12 - 13 Five insider tips to save money when buying a car

15 How to diversify your retirement portfolio

16-17 Rookie Teacher of the Year,

18-19 Kathy Cafe

24-25 Is it really possible for kids to like whole grains?

26 -27 Shape up for surgery

28 Five crazy cruise features you have to try

4 everythinglake.com

Media contact: Christopher Patton, Communications Officer office: (352) 253-6522; cell: (352) 267-2104 [email protected]

For immediate release — Feb. 21, 2014

Lake County Schools congratulates three finalists for Rookie Teacher of the Year, School-Related

Employee of the Year TAVARES — This month marked the annual tradition of announcing finalists for the

Rookie Teacher of the Year and School-Related Employee of the Year for Lake County Schools.

Based upon judges’ review of their applications the following finalists were selected:

ROOKIE TEACHER OF THE YEAR

• Laura Fagan, Windy Hill Middle School

• Lindsey Massaro, Umatilla Middle School

• Cynthia Murray, Eustis Heights Elementary School

SCHOOL-RELATED EMPLOYEE OF THE YEAR

• Nilda Rivera, Human Resources Services Department

• Lydia Flores, Title I office in Clermont

• Allison Auld, Leesburg High School

To be eligible for the Rookie Teacher of the Year award, teachers must have three years of experience or less. The final selection will be announced at the Educational Foundation’s “Rookie Teachers of the Year Celebration” on March 19 at Lake-Sumter State College’s Everett A. Kelly Convocation Center in Leesburg after another panel of judges’ conducts on site interviews and observes the three finalists in the classroom. More information about the three finalists includes:

LAURA FAGAN — An eighth-grade American History teacher at Windy Hill Middle, Fagan writes in her application that her “philosophy of teaching is centered on the idea that students should interact with history instead of reciting it. History can be made meaningful by making it applicable.” The second-year teacher and volleyball coach continues, “American History doesn’t need bell or whistles. Standing alone it is one of the most interesting histories of any nation.” Amy Cockcroft, Principal at Windy Hill Middle, said, “She just brings the classroom to life. You can feel the excitement.”

LINDSEY MASSARO — The first-year band director at Umatilla Middle, Massaro states that her teaching style is to “guide my students’ quest for knowledge by providing access to information rather than acting as the primary source of information. For students to construct knowledge, they need the opportunity to discover and practice skills in authentic situations.” Kelly Sanders, Principal at Umatilla Middle, said, “Much of her success is due to the unparalleled relationships she has developed with her students and the community at-large. Lindsey’s approach is invitational and her can-do attitude has made a world of difference for the band program.”

MURRAY

FAGAN

MASSARO

5-10 pm

Our issue this month is based on spring, baseball and softball. It was at my son’s baseball game the other day and was great watching all the kids having fun. Our cover this month is based on that theme. I was fortunate enough to have Amy Sellers from Amy Sellers Art Gallery do our cover this month. The cover model is my son, Amir.

Also, all the spring festivals and fairs are in full swing around the county. It is good to see all the families out there enjoying what our county brings to them. I have been out there enjoying the festivities and meeting all our readers.

I want to thank all our listeners on our radio show. Thank you for your continued support and feedback. Your comments are what make us better. Also, keep an eye out for our added products. We have a lot of new products coming up. So stay tuned.

Have a great March and we will see you in April.

Al AsghAr EvErything lAkE MAgAzinE www.everythinglake.com www.facebook.com/everythinglake 407-697-7933

from the publisher’s deskAl Asghar

staff

Publisher & Al Asghar Managing Editor [email protected]

Design & Layout Joe Ramirez

Photography Jennifer Moseley Elizabeth Betsy Reed

Contributing Ajay P Writers Al Asghar

Advertising Al Asghar Sales Matt Roderick

Cover Art provided by Amy Sellers Amy Sellers Art Gallery 411 N. Donnelly Street Mount Dora, FL 352.383.1102

The goals of the writers at EverythingLake Magazine is to provide great stories that are true and accurate from beginning to end. Please be forgiving if we make a mistake. We will make it right.

EverythingLake is a monthly publication and can be located in various Schools, Chamber of Commerce, Businesses, Restaurants, etc.

Any comments can be sent to EverythingLake Magazine at [email protected] or call 407-697-7933. PO Box 606, Eustis, Florida 32727

EverythingLake Magazine assumes no responsibility for claims made by their advertisers. All letters and their contents sent to EverythingLake Magazine become property of EverythingLake Magazine and maybe reproduced at any time. All views expressed in our magazine are those of the writers and may not be of EverythingLake Magazine. Use of the material in our magazine is prohibited unless written approval is given by EverythingLake Magazine


(BPT) - A variety of factors play into a confident appearance, but many women are unaware of simple ways they can come across as more poised and self-assured every day. Bobbie Thomas, national style expert and author of The Power of Style: Everything You Need to Know Before You Get Dressed Tomorrow, shares her advice on quick and easy ways to look and feel more confident.

Get in touch with your personal style: Pull the inside out. This is the key to self-expression and the definition of true style. To do this, women should ask themselves, “What do I want to say? Attract? And what is the most important thing I want others to know about me?” Then, take an honest look in the mirror and make sure their reflections match that message. Lastly, women need to invest in themselves - learn their best colors, most flattering cuts for their body types, and then take the time to edit their closets according to their goals.

Consider your body language: Women’s confidence comes from within, but it is just as important to be conscious of messages communicated nonverbally, as they are important to other people’s perceptions. A woman’s body language speaks louder than words and says a lot about her comfort and core confidence. What can make a huge difference? Focusing on posture and standing tall, making eye contact when speaking to people and even smiling can communicate confidence. Stretching every morning or practicing yoga are also great ways for women to learn how to balance and improve the way they carry themselves. Plus, not only does good posture help with exuding strong self-confidence, it can also contribute to overall health and even make your clothes look their best.

Pay attention to the details: Most women have mastered their everyday beauty routines, but often neglect caring for their armpit skin. Underarms require the same attention as the rest of the body and can make a major difference in the way women feel when wearing sleeveless attire. The Dove PitiCure will help women give their armpits the care they need in three simple steps. First, exfoliate the area with a gentle exfoliating wipe to draw out impurities in the skin. Second, use warm water to rinse the area clean and pat dry with a soft towel. Finally, I recommend using New Dove Advanced Care to moisturize the skin because it is the only Anti-Perspirant/Deodorant formulated with NutriumMoisture and is proven to make underarm skin softer and smoother in just three days. Plus, women can expect 48-hour odor and wetness protection for long-lasting freshness.

Women’s style: Expert advice for dressing and feeling more confident

everythinglake.com 7

OVER 25 Brands of Grain Free, Holistic and Natural Foods Unbeatable Prices on:Natural Balance Natural Choice Blue Buffalo Taste of the Wild From Natures Variety Orijen, Canidae Merrick, Earthborn & Full Reptile Supplies

$5 Off $35 Pet Purchases

Excludes Equine and Livestock Foods

$5.00 OFF

Full Dog Groom


19814 SR 44, Eustis, FL 32726 352-589-1746

Five simple steps to being a great pet owner

(BPT) - Brushing your teeth and getting dressed in the morning are among the daily routines that are second nature to humans. But you may not always remember that your pets need regular care too - like avoiding potentially harmful table scraps, being protected from pesky fleas and ticks, keeping the sensitive pads of their paws safe from ever-changing weather conditions, and getting regular veterinary care.

The following are five, simple steps to help keep your pets healthy and happy from Cristiano von Simson, DVM, MBA, director of Veterinary Technical Services, Bayer HealthCare, Animal Health Division, and proud dog owner.

1. No table scraps

What can be better than a gathering with family and friends around good food - whether a barbecue, the cornucopia of a Thanksgiving feast, or all the wings and nachos that accompany a big Sunday football game? According to Dr. von Simson, although you may be tempted - and your dog or cat may beg - remember to stop yourself before giving your pet a table scrap, leftover or bone. “You may make him happy for the moment, but it could create serious digestive problems for him in the long run,” he says. “So instead of sharing human food, give him an appropriate pet treat.”

2. Pest prevention

You don’t like to be bitten by pesky bugs - well, neither does your four-legged friend. While you may know that fleas and ticks may cause misery and disease for your pets, you may not know that these parasites can be active year-round, waiting for their chance to attack and feed on your dog or cat. Continuous protection against fleas and ticks is, therefore, an essential part of pet ownership. But it’s not always easy to remember to use a flea and tick preventive each month. See what several

pet owners think about trying to remember to keep their pets protected at www.youtube.com/watch?v=7rNCvUgQprQ. “Now, you can avoid the hassle of remembering to apply a monthly flea and tick topical by using Seresto, a convenient flea and tick collar that offers the performance you expect from a monthly topical, but in an easy-to-use form that kills fleas and repels and kills ticks on cats or dogs for eight months,” says Dr. von Simson. You can learn more about Seresto at www.Seresto.com.

3. Protect their paws

Do you wear shoes when jogging on hot asphalt - a no-brainer, right? What about boots when it snows? But did you ever stop to think that your pet’s feet need protection from the elements, too? It is important to keep the pads of their feet cool in sweltering weather, which is why walks in the evening or early morning are best. And during winter, be sure to protect their feet from snow; sled dogs wear protective booties for a reason.


Five simple steps to being a great pet owner

4. Don’t forget the water

A summer run on the beach, a fall trek through the woods and blazing your own snow trail are all activities that not only make you thirsty, but your pet, as well. So when you pack a water bottle for the day, don’t forget to bring your pet’s water bowl, too. “Your pet will be grateful for a drink of clean water, not to mention properly hydrated,” says Dr. von Simson.

5. Get an annual check-up

Just as annual check-ups are essential for keeping us healthy, regular visits to the veterinarian are vital to the health and well-being of your pet. You may think, “My pet looks

fine, and has no symptoms, so why should I take her to the vet?” But since your pet can’t really talk, she can’t tell you when she is ill, especially if the “she” is a cat. In fact, according to the Bayer Veterinary Care Usage Study III: Feline Findings, a nationally representative study of feline owners, 52 percent of cat owners indicated they had not taken their cats to the veterinarian in the past year. “Because cats age differently than humans - with the first two years of a cat’s life

equal to 24 years of a human’s life, and each successive year equivalent to four human years - annual examinations are essential to helping keep cats healthy and preventing potentially serious disease,” says Dr. von Simson.

Remember, pets need us, just as much as we need them.


Meeting buyer demands in a seller’s market: Top trends for 2014

(BPT) - With many real estate industry watchers predicting 2014 will be a seller’s market, you may think you won’t need to do much to sell your home this spring. Not so fast - while more buyers are likely to be competing for homes, that doesn’t mean they’re willing to settle for less than perfect. In fact, coming out of the real estate crash of a few years ago, buyers have learned the importance of getting the maximum value for their home investment. While home prices are expected to rise in 2014, buyers continue to have high expectations. Homes that meet buyers’ lists of “must-haves” and “would-love-to-have” features will be positioned to sell more quickly and closer to - or above - list price, experts say. So what are homebuyers looking for in 2014?

Whole-home, beautiful energy efficient features

In the earliest days of the efficiency trend, many buyers would have settled for a house that reduced heating and cooling costs through good insulation, or cut electricity bills with energy-sipping appliances. Modern buyers, however, are interested in homes that take a holistic approach to energy efficiency. That means supplementing energy savings with more thoughtful features like daylighting and natural ventilation through energy-efficient skylights, using solar-powered water heaters, and employing intelligent controls for skylights, other lighting and heating/cooling systems.

Buyers want energy-efficient upgrades that also offer high aesthetic appeal in addition to functionality, making features like ENERGY STAR-qualified skylights particularly popular. In fact, 55 percent of homebuyers in a National Association of Home Builder’s survey said skylights

are desirable or essential. Skylight manufacturer VELUX America notes that

installing no-leak, solar-powered fresh air (venting) skylights not only enhances indoor air quality, but can boost energy efficiency, working in concert with windows. Add remote-controlled, solar-powered blinds and skylight energy performance ratings can improve as much as 45 percent. And solar powered skylights and blinds, as well as the installation costs, are eligible for a 30 percent Federal tax credit.

Smarter size and space

While buyers will always look to get the most bang for their buck, many are deciding that “bang” does not necessarily mean “bigger.” The great recession saw many families downsize

Energy Star-qualified solar powered fresh air skylights and solar powered designer blinds add style while providing natural light, passive ventilation and privacy. Both are operated by remote control and qualify for a 30 percent Federal tax credit, as do installation costs.


potential of allowing them to age in place. In demand are home features that not only look good now (such as an open floor plan or larger bathroom) but that can be easily adapted for older occupants who may face challenges with mobility, vision and other age-related issues.

A range of home features fit the bill, including ground-floor bedrooms, ample natural lighting to enhance vision, open floor plans that minimize obstacles to mobility, larger bathrooms that can easily be fitted with grab bars, kitchens with age-friendly features such as touch faucets, and smaller yards with lower maintenance requirements.

While higher demand and less inventory are likely to make 2014 a better year for sellers than buyers, if you’re selling your home, knowing what buyers are looking for can help ensure a faster, more rewarding sale - in any market.

into smaller homes - with more manageable mortgages. Even with the economy moving again, many homeowners have found they like the efficiency and utility of smaller, more purposeful spaces. The functionality of a room is now as important as its size. Buyers will continue to embrace rooms that make the most of the space available, such as compact kitchens that maximize storage, smaller bathrooms that optimize lighting efficiency and privacy, while saving wall space through use of skylights, and open rooms that serve multiple purposes. To see how skylights would look in any room in your home, get a skylight planner app, take pictures in your home, and overlay skylights and blinds on the images with a few clicks.

Aging-in-place potential

As more baby boomers approach and enter their golden years, homebuyers are looking toward the future and seeking homes that offer the

NEW LOCATION

We rotate over 75 Cupcake Flavors with 18-24 to choose from daily.

We now offer Made to Order Donuts.

352-383-2200122 E. 4th Ave. Mount Dora, FL

Cupcakesand Donuts

For Every Occasion and Just for Fun!

www.CupcakeDelights.com


(BPT) - As the weather warms, car buying season gets into full swing. Even though interest rates are still at or near record lows, there are additional ways smart buyers are saving even more cash on their next vehicle and staying within their budgets.

“Purchasing power is crucial when it comes to buying a vehicle and it’s important to make sure you’re spending within your financial means,” says Joe Pendergast, assistant vice president of Consumer Lending at Navy Federal Credit Union. “Along with conducting research before choosing a make and model, there are steps you can take to ensure you’re getting the best possible deal.”

Here are five tips from Pendergast to get the most car for your money with a payment you can live with:

Step 1: Know what you can afford

Your first step when making any large purchase should be to assess your current financial situation. Review your monthly income, subtract all anticipated expenses, and make sure there’s money left to not only afford a car payment, but also to contribute to your savings. Adding a car payment to your monthly budget shouldn’t leave you without money remaining for things like groceries or unexpected expenses.

Step 2: Review your credit inventory

Take a comprehensive look at your current debt. Are you in good-standing on all prior loan commitments and credit cards? If not, it

may be difficult to obtain financing at a low interest rate, which will result in a higher monthly payment. So, if you’re behind on other loans, take the steps now to get in good shape to purchase a car. Go back to step 1 if need be. Once you’ve made sure all your debts are in good-standing and that you’re financially able to take on

a car payment, you’re ready for the next step.

Step 3: Check your credit report and score

Getting a car loan at the best possible rate requires a good credit score. Before applying for an auto loan, it’s best to get a copy of your credit report. Although financial institutions will check your credit when applying for a loan, having your report in advance gives you the chance to correct any discrepancies before applying. This leads to a quicker application process and prevents denial because of a credit report error unbeknownst to you.

Step 4: Shop around for the best rate

Rates are low right now - as low as 1.49 percent at Navy Federal Credit Union. Before walking into a dealership, check interest rates at different lenders and read the fine print for any hidden fees. The key to a good auto loan is striking the right balance between the rate and how long to finance the loan. New vehicles will have a lower interest rate, but the monthly payments will be larger. Look for the shortest term you can afford without breaking your budget.

Five insider tips to save money when buying a car

CATCH

HOUR

Step 5: Get pre-approved

Once you’ve shopped around, increase your buying power by visiting your chosen lender and getting a quick, pre-approved loan. A salesperson will be more willing to bargain if how much you’ve been approved for and what are willing to pay has already been determined. Keep your payment threshold in mind and allow your pre-approval to lead discussions at the negotiating table. It will result in purchasing a car at a price that’s right for your budget.

If you’re looking to purchase a vehicle this spring, follow these five steps to ensure you’re buying within your means and getting the best possible deal. By doing your homework and talking with a lender, you’ll save as much as possible.

Five insider tips to save money when buying a car

Keep up with more stories

Like us on Facebook.www.facebook.com/

everythinglake


411 N. Donnelly Street Mount Dora, FL

352.383.1102

Guitar SeriesA unique Boutique and Art Gallery located in downtown Mount Dora

Amy Sellers Art Gallery

Lots Of New Earrings 2 for $10

How to diversify your retirement portfolio in ways you might not have imagined

(BPT) - Many investors are taking more control of their financial future by investing in alternatives to the stock market including real estate, land, promissory notes, oil and gas. Sue Jensen of New York grew frustrated after watching her life savings take a hit year after year in the stock market. A couple of years ago, after another year of less-than-desirable returns, she couldn’t take it anymore. She sought out a way to further diversify her investments that wouldn’t leave her on the sidelines, watching helplessly. Jensen is just one of many Americans who for years knew only one way to save for retirement. Growing concerned that it wouldn’t yield enough money to live comfortably, Jensen sought out alternatives. The good news is that there are options. You can diversify your portfolio by investing your retirement savings in assets other than stocks and bonds. As Jensen and many others have discovered, the Internal Revenue Service allows you to invest your retirement funds in an array of assets, including real estate, promissory notes, private placements and tax liens. The investments are made using a self-directed account such as an IRA.

Self-directed IRA custodians, such as Equity Trust, offer options for nearly everyone when it comes to saving for retirement. These options include:

* Individual retirement accounts: IRA, Roth IRA

* Small-business accounts: SIMPLE IRA, SEP IRA, Solo 401(k), Roth Solo 401(k)

* Accounts that allow you to save for other expenses: Coverdell Education Savings Account, Health Savings Account

Investing your IRA or other account in alternatives is nothing new. IRS Publication 590 outlines the types of investments allowed in a self-directed IRA, including:

* Real estate - including apartments, single family homes, and duplexes

* Commercial property, developed or undeveloped land

* Mortgages/deeds of trust

* Publicly traded stocks, bonds, mutual funds

* Private limited partnerships

* Private stock offerings, private placements

* Private limited liability companies

* Secured and unsecured notes

* Judgments/structured settlements

* Tax sale certificates

* Car paper

* Factoring

* Accounts receivable

* Commercial paper

* Equipment leasing

You should be aware that not every IRA custodian allows you to self-direct your funds. Only qualified self-directed IRA custodians, such as Equity Trust, will allow you to invest your retirement funds in real estate and other alternatives to the stock market. For those who prefer to continue to diversify with a mix of alternatives and stocks or mutual funds, Equity Trust provides the capability. Jensen, an Equity Trust client, has diversified into tax liens and promissory notes. In addition to the profits from those investments, which grow tax-deferred or tax-free in her IRA accounts, she has gained peace of mind in knowing all her retirement “eggs” aren’t in one basket.

Self-directed IRA custodians are passive, which means they cannot give investment advice.


















MURRAY

FAGAN

MASSARO

— more —

Page 2 — Employee honors

CYNTHIA MURRAY — The third-year Kindergarten teacher at Eustis Heights Elementary writes in her application that an outstanding teacher is defined by their ability “to go above and beyond the call of duty to ensure the success of your students. Outstanding teachers teach to the unique needs of each student by developing rigorous lessons connected to their students’ real-world experiences.” Brenna Burkhead, Principal at Eustis Heights Elementary, said, “She is a leader on campus. She goes above and beyond to meet student needs.”

The School-Related Employee of the Year honors is also a tight race between three employees, who work at a school or department and were nominated for the honor by their peers. All nominees filled out an application and a panel of judges’ scored the applications to select the three finalists. The honoree for the award will be announced at the Educational Foundation’s “Night of Stars” event on April 10 at Lake-Sumter State College. The final selection includes:

NILDA RIVERA — She began her career with Lake County Schools a year and a half ago and is currently responsibly for fingerprinting new hires, volunteers and vendors. Carolyn Samuel, Director of Human Resources, wrote in a recommendation letter, “She has been a very industrious employee who gives 100 percent each day. Nilda has proven to be dependable, trustworthy, flexible and knowledgeable of the job duties that she has been assigned.” She continues, “Above all, she wants to perform her functions in a proficient and correct manner.”

LYDIA FLORES — With seven years of experience in the Title I Department, Flores has a range of responsibilities including secretarial support, assisting with the Parent Involvement Program and participating in Family School Liaison meetings. Rusty Dosh, Administrative Coordinator for Title I, wrote in a recommendation letter, “Ms. Flores exhibits a strong willingness to provide assistance in tough situations and the ability to adapt when necessary.” He continued, “It is clear to me that she is a caring worker who seeks to enhance and improve her skills for betterment of the department and our district.

ALLISON AULD — Currently in her second year as a bookkeeper at Leesburg High, Auld helps the school maintain financial records and databases. Bill Miller, Principal at Leesburg High, said, “We are very fortunate to have Ms. Auld as bookkeeper. She brings expertise, insight and compassion to our school. She has forged great relationships with the community, students and staff. Her stellar work ethic combined with her commitment to Leesburg High School does not go unnoticed.”

###

FLORES

AULD

RIVERA


















MURRAY

FAGAN

MASSARO


I wanted to try a good breakfast

restaurant and what I found at Kathy’s Café topped my expectations.

For months, our readers had been telling me that I needed to try this gem. Now I know why. As I walked into the Café, the place was pretty well packed. The restaurant was well decorated and the wait staff had a constant smile on their faces. I took a quick scan of the place and the patrons were smiling and enjoying their food.

“We are more of a family restaurant. Our menu caters to the whole family. Most of the people are regulars. My daughters and I have made sure that we make all our guest feel at home and look forward to seeing them over and over again” stated Eileen Carpenter, owner of this wonderful diner.

Kathy’s Café390 W Burleigh Blvd.,

Tavares Fl 32778 352-343-0295Story by Al Asghar Photos Jennifer Moseley

As I looked at the menu, I noticed that it had a huge breakfast and lunch menu. I decided on biscuits and gravy, the feta and tomato omelet and pancakes. The biscuits and gravy was on point and I could not get enough. The omelet was fluffy and delicious. The food was home style cooking to its best.

The café is open 7 days a week from 7am to 1 pm. They are doing dinner on Wednesday and Thursday from 4pm to 6:30pm. They have huge

selection for breakfast and lunch.

Go in and try this lovely café. I know I will be back for more.


(BPT) - It’s that time of year - bridal showers, baby showers and graduation parties are likely dotting your calendar. If you’re the lucky host of one of these milestone events, you might feel excitement paired with a bit of trepidation as you start the party-planning process. The good news is, there are some simple ways to be the “hostess with the mostest” and limit stress at the same time. 1. Make a plan Sit down and brainstorm your ideas. Record them on paper or electronically. Once you have a list of themes, decor, food and activities, you can start narrowing your options down to what really aligns with the guest of honor’s tastes and preferences. Remember, you want the party to reflect you since you’re the host, but make sure it speaks to the person whom the party is being hosted for.

2. Accept help Planning a party can be time-consuming and costly. If the mother of the bride or best friend of the mother-to-be offers to help, don’t turn her away. The best way to ensure you get the help you need and no one oversteps boundaries is to assign specific tasks. For example, assign someone to make a dessert, plan an activity or stop at the store to pick up colored napkins and cutlery. 3. Determine a menu The warmer months beg for fresh party fare, so be sure to highlight healthy foods and everyday favorites in your menu. Salads, fresh veggies and fruit are light and versatile. Furthermore, you can highlight the best of your region’s seasonal produce by visiting your local co-op or farmers market to select items that were locally grown and made.

Hosting a bridal, baby or graduation party? Clever food shortcuts big on taste, low on stress

4. Think dips With your menu focused on lighter, fresh fare, you need to add extras to complement those items, and nothing works better than a classic variety of dips. Luckily, you don’t have to rely on fatty sour cream-based dips anymore. Consider serving Simply Organic Greek Yogurt Dip Mixes, which are easy to make and taste great. Plus, by replacing sour cream with Greek yogurt there’s zero fat and more protein, meaning guests will feel healthful and satisfied. Other popular dip options include fruit dip and guacamole. Visit www.simplyorganic.com for more ideas. 5. Decide on drinks Make sure you provide a variety of drink options for guests, especially if you’re hosting your event outdoors. Always stock water, but be sure to add other beverages to your menu


Hosting a bridal, baby or graduation party? Clever food shortcuts big on taste, low on stress

also. For example, lemonade and sweet tea is perfect for afternoon parties. A popular trend is to select a specialized drink to serve - for example, you might serve pink rose tea for the gal expecting a baby girl or create a tropical concoction for your friend who will be honeymooning in Hawaii. For recent graduates, you can’t go wrong with fruit punch in the school’s color. No matter the type of party you are hosting, a few trendy touches and cleaver food shortcuts will wow guests and keep them raving long after it has ended. Above all else, have fun and enjoy these special moments with loved ones because the memories will last a lifetime.

(BPT) - The average American who wants to lose weight-will make four attempts-this year and only-one in six-of them will see long-term success. Statistics also show it takes 21 days to create a habit and if the results aren’t coming, giving up becomes easy. This year, instead of giving up on your resolution, stay motivated and push through.

As you renew your personal resolutions this month, check out these six strategies to recharge your health engagement.

* Get rid of the diet mentality. Many people talk about “diet” as a verb and focus on the-act of restricting. Dieting is a temporary effort and one that forces too many changes all at once. On top of this, dieting doesn’t allow enough time to show change, cultivates a negative mindset and focuses on deprivation instead of nourishment. Begin to think of diet as a noun to refer to the kinds of foods you choose to eat and envision your healthy lifestyle as an “in it for good”-behavior change.

* Enlist the power of visuals. Make healthy outcome goals more visible in your daily life to serve as a reminder to stay motivated. Visual prompts can be powerful cues to make good choices and keep the faith in your journey. Use a picture of yourself at the beach at a time when you felt your best, a collection of photos doing active things or create a motivational bulletin board. Hang an inspirational quote on your mirror or choose a goal outfit and hang it in plain view.

* Track progress, not perfection. Set specific behavior goals and monitor the progress with a simple yes or no. Focus not on perfection but on progress and set an achievable target to make the behavior impactful and meaningful. For example, if your goal is to lose 20 pounds of fat over the next year, look at the built-in progress-markers and instead

Learn how to achieve your weight loss goals this year


average that out and you can see it will only take 0.38 lbs of fat loss per week to reach that outcome.

* Recruit a healthy eating/workout buddy (or advisor). Put some skin in the game by partnering with someone who can help you (or challenge you) to comply with the key behaviors in your program like strength training two-to-four times per week, taking a few walking breaks at work each day, or preparing a pile of vegetables with each meal. Sharing the journey with someone else drastically increases motivation and progress.-If you need advice or accountability, consider working with a trainer. Trainers will customize a workout to help keep you on track with fitness resolutions and can show you some new exercises to help target an area you want to focus on, hold you accountable and be a great shoulder to cry on during the tough days.


Learn how to achieve your weight loss goals this year

ADVANCED THERAPIES

DR. VICTORIA MILLER, AP, DOM

SHAMAYA CHAH, LMT, CKTP

SHAHANAJI ZECHNA, LMT, NMT, SET

352-383-0004428 EAST 5th AVE., MOUNT DORA, FL. 32757

LIC#MA4338LIC#MM27432LIC#MA33910

ACUPUNCTUREWEIGHT LOSS - IDEAL PROTEIN

STANDARD PROCESSHOMEOPATHY

CRANIO SACRAL

MEDICAL MASSAGE

CRANIO SOMATIC

SWEDISH MASSAGEREIKI, HOT STONES

S.E.T. THERAPYDEEP TISSUE

BACH FLOWER REMEDIES

* Get your assessments done. Eliminate the guesswork and create certainty that your health-focused time and efforts are effectively addressing your biggest metabolic barriers. Using assessments allows you to hone your program down to the day-to-day behaviors. For example, if insulin resistance tendencies are discovered in a blood test, you will be able to confidently work with a personalized strength training plan two-to-four times per week and customized “smart” interval training a few days each week while replacing much of your dietary starches with fibrous vegetables, proteins, or healthy fats to seriously cut belly fat and improve your metabolic health.

* Hit the ‘reset’ button and detoxify yourself. A more intensive re-boot option is to embark on a safe and effective detoxification program, like Life Time’s D.TOX. Whether you’re trying to kickstart your weight loss, break through a plateau in your program, reset lifestyle habits, or simply support your body’s ability to remove the toxins you’ve harbored over time in body fat, a few dedicated weeks of cleaner

living, eating, and resting can leave you feeling (and looking) younger and more resilient.-

Regardless of your goals, don’t give up. Reset and recharge your approach to fitness, nutrition and overall health and focus on living a healthier lifestyle from here on out.

Is it really possible for kids to like whole grains?


(BPT) - We know. Whole grains are good for us, offering fiber, vitamins and other nutrients. But can they really be tasty enough for our kids to enjoy? And how do we add them to more of our meals?

The answers may be as close as your nearest elementary, middle or high school. Schools across the country are introducing whole grain breads, pastas, rice, pizzas and tortillas. Starting July 1, 2014, all of the grain-based offerings in the lunch line will be at least 51 percent whole grain.

Anthony Geraci, director of Nutrition Services at Shelby County Schools near Memphis, Tenn., oversees one of the country’s largest school districts, serving more than 155,000 students in 270 schools. In 2012, he proactively anticipated the USDA’s new school meal requirements and changed all of the district’s grain offerings to whole grains. Now, breads and muffins are baked fresh from scratch. Simultaneously, Geraci established a mandate of customer service, focusing full attention on serving the district’s daily student customers.

One of the most successful ways Geraci and his team have introduced new, healthy items is the “no thank you bites.” “Trying something new can be a bit unsettling to kids,” says Geraci. “We decided to ask our youngest customers to choose whether or not to try a new, healthy item by offering it to them in a small sample cup. If they choose not to try it, they simply say ‘no thank you,’ and move on. But if they do try the item, they receive a star sticker and are invited to a monthly ‘constellation party for the

stars.’ We’ve found this to be a fun way to test new items as well as get feedback on our new offerings.”

Schools are offering kid-friendly favorites like pizza and stir fry with brown rice that fit into their whole grain-rich menus. For example, the new Big Daddy’s(R) Primo Four Cheese Pizza has a 51 percent whole grain crust and a slice is only 360 calories. It’s a great solution for familiar taste and nutrient-rich offerings.

You can easily carry whole grain “goodness” into your own kitchen too.

Consider whole grains your blank canvas, says Susan Moores, a Twin Cities-based dietitian. “They’re a great starting point for creating delicious meals that are incredibly beneficial to your and your kids’ health.”


According to Moores, whole grains are the type of carbohydrates your body wants.

“Whole-grain carbohydrates are an excellent source of energy for the brain,” she says. That’s important for kids at school. Plus, studies show whole grains contain their own, unique set of phytonutrients, which can rival the phytonutrients found in fruits and vegetables. Phytonutrients are substances found in plant foods that research strongly suggest promote good health … think resveratrol in grapes and lycopene in tomatoes.

To add whole grains to your home menus, Moores suggests teamwork. “Kids are naturally curious about food, they’re interested in being in the kitchen and in learning how to cook. Leverage that and the fun when everyone is trying a food for the first time.”

To amp up the flavor of grains, cook them in broth or juice, and make a pilaf with chopped onions, adding chopped vegetables, corn or even dried fruit. Finish with seasoning. Whole grains work as a side dish, in a casserole, in soups or as part of a refreshing spring salad.

It might take time to make the change, but stay the course. “The rule of thumb: it can take 10 to 12 introductions to a new food before a child chooses to give it a go,” Moores says. “Whole grains taste best with the company they keep. Partner them with favorite foods and ingredients to make them a sure win on two fronts: taste and health.”

With the help of schools who are leading the way in introducing kid-friendly whole grain options, we’ll all be enjoying the benefits that come with eating whole grain foods.

Try this whole grain recipe from The Culinary Institute of America:

Brown Rice Pilaf recipe from The Culinary Institute of America

Yield: 10 portions

Ingredients:1 1/2 cups long-grain converted brown rice-- --- --- --- - 1 tablespoon vegetable oil-- --- --- --- --- --- - 1 small onion, minced-- --- -3 cups liquid - vegetable stock, chicken stock or water1 bay leaf1 thyme sprigSalt, to tasteGround pepper, to taste

Directions:Preheat oven to 350 F. Heat the oil in heavy-gauge medium pot over medium heat. Add the onions and cook, stirring frequently, until tender and translucent, 5-6 minutes. Add the rice and sauté over medium-high heat, stirring frequently, until aromatic and heated through, 2 to 3 minutes. Add the stock, bay leaf and thyme sprig to the rice and bring to a simmer, stirring to prevent the rice from clumping together or sticking to the bottom of the pot. Cover the pot and cook in a 350 F. oven until the rice is tender and has absorbed all the liquid, about 30 minutes. Remove the rice from the oven, and allow it to rest, covered, for 5 minutes. Uncover, and use a fork to fluff the rice, remove the bay leaf and thyme sprig, and set aside in a warm spot. Season to taste with salt and pepper. Serve on a warm plate.

Variations:* Several different dried fruits, nuts and herbs can be added to grains, such as dried cherries, dried apricots, slivered almonds, chopped pistachios, fresh basil, etc.* 2 ounces of chopped, toasted walnuts can also be gently folded in with ½ ounce each of chopped parsley, chives and thyme.

Includes recipe and timely information: March is National Nutrition Month.

(BPT) - More than 50 million surgeries occur every year and patient safety is always the top priority for surgeons or physician anesthesiologists involved in medical care. If you’re scheduled for surgery and have weeks or even months to prepare, important actions to improve your health, such as exercising and eating right, can help make surgery as safe as possible. They will also decrease your chances of complications and help you get back on your feet faster.

“Surgery is usually the solution to a problem, whether to replace a painful knee or repair a hernia, but there are always risks,” says Dr. Jane C.K. Fitch, president of the American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA). “Physician anesthesiologists, surgeons and other medical specialists work with patients before, during and after surgery to help ensure a successful outcome.Patients can take control of their own health by having critical conversations with their physicians and getting healthy before surgery.”

So, what can you do to get yourself in shape for surgery? The ASA suggests patients follow these tips:

* Eat healthy: Adjusting your diet to include healthier choices in the weeks leading up to your surgery can help you become stronger and recover quicker. If you have a loss of appetite or recently lost weight without trying, be sure to tell your doctor, who might

Shape up for surgery: Tips to improve your health, safety and outcome

suggest you see a registered dietitian. The dietitian may prescribe a nutritional supplement to boost your immune system, help prevent infections and shorten your stay in the hospital.

* Stop smoking:- Among the many reasons to kick the habit is that smoking and anesthesia - which you’ll need during surgery - don’t mix. If you smoke, your heart and lungs are compromised and


don’t function at full capacity. You are also far more likely to suffer breathing and lung-related complications during surgery and are more likely to need a ventilator after surgery. By quitting smoking before surgery, you’ll not only decrease the likelihood of these risks, but you’re also less likely to have a wound infection, heart attack or other complication. * Boost your breathing: Taking deep breaths on a spirometer - a simple device that helps you exercise your lungs and improve their function - is a routine activity after most surgeries. Doing these exercises before surgery can help strengthen your lungs so you’re less likely to develop pneumonia. * Control your blood sugar: People with diabetes whose blood sugar (glucose) is not controlled, are more likely to suffer potentially fatal complications following surgery. If you have diabetes, make sure your blood sugar is controlled. If you don’t, your immune system may be weaker, making you more vulnerable to pneumonia and other infections. Controlling your blood sugar will help you heal faster and you’ll likely spend less time recovering in the hospital. -* Disclose medication use: Prior to surgery, be sure to tell your surgeon and physician anesthesiologist what vitamins, supplements, as well as prescription and over-the-counter medications you are taking. You may need to stop taking some of them until after your surgery because they make your blood less likely to clot and increase the risk of bleeding. The long list of risky medications includes blood thinners such as aspirin, pain relievers such as ibuprofen and common supplements such as St. John’s wort and vitamins C and E. Do not stop taking any supplements or medications without asking your physician first. * Get (or stay) active: If you exercise, keep it up, and if you don’t, try to responsibly increase your activity level in the weeks before surgery.

Shape up for surgery: Tips to improve your health, safety and outcome


352.343.2361Like us on FacebookQuality Design and Print, LLC

[email protected]

Looking Good.PROFESSIONAL • LOCAL • COMPETITIVE

The sooner you begin to move around after surgery, the less likely you are to develop blood clots and pneumonia. Consider getting into an exercise program - it can reduce complications and shorten hospital stays. * Reduce consumption of alcoholic beverages: People who have more than two alcoholic drinks a day are more likely to suffer complications after surgery than light drinkers and those who drink heavily are more than twice as likely to suffer complications that can result in death. Heavy drinkers are also much more likely to get an infection after surgery, have difficulty breathing, and be admitted to the intensive care unit than non-drinkers. Be your own advocate by following ASA’s tips for improving your health, safety and surgical outcomes. For more information about being prepared for surgery and anesthesia, visit www.asahq.org/WhenSecondsCount/patientsafety.aspx.


(BPT) - Cruise liners are no longer just giant ships heading to enviable destinations. They are small, floating cities, destinations unto themselves, packed with unexpected entertainment from on-board planetariums to skydiving experiences. “As cruise ships add more exciting features to their decks, they can offer a well-rounded vacation experience for the whole family,” says Jeanenne Tornatore, senior editor for the travel booking website Orbitz.com.

Here are five of the coolest cruise features around.

High flyers Royal Caribbean-wants you to pull the ripcord by taking a sky dive at sea. Available on-Quantum of the Seas,-the RipCord skydiving experience is more floating on air than leaping from a plane. Adventurous passengers step into a wind tunnel that propels them vertically. RipCorders get the benefits of flying high with the sea on both sides without any of the drawbacks of having to pull their chutes.

Starry nights Home to the only on-board planetarium in the world, the-Queen Mary 2-offers multiple space shows daily and courses on celestial navigation for those lucky enough to be on board. If scoping the stars isn’t your thing, the ship also offers a rich array of on-board speakers, wine tastings, golf simulations and a casino to keep you busy.

Tee time Sports rule on the Royal Princess from-Princess Cruises. In addition to the standard

workout center-jogging track-fitness class trifecta available on many ships, the Royal Princess also features a full indoor driving range and a laser shooting range so you can blast your travel companions away. Cool off at night by getting a gander at The SeaWalk, a glass-bottomed walkway that hovers above the

ocean and offers stunning views of the outside world.

Weird science Just because your kids are on vacation doesn’t mean their brains have to be. Boasting an on-board science lab for children,-Royal Caribbean’s Oasis of the Seas is as educational as it is relaxing. Winter and summer converge on this pleasure vessel since passengers can choose between fun in the sun in the ship’s pools or cool it off at night by either hitting the on-board ice rink or taking in a chilly skate show.

Make a splash Most ships have on-board pools. Yawn. Some even come with private pools for the ritziest passengers. But only one has a full-scale water coaster. The 765-foot AquaDuck slide available on-Disney Dream-cruise ships sends guests plunging down four deck lengths and into a lazy river. But don’t worry, there’s something for passengers who want a more relaxing vacation. Disney Dream also offers an adults-only Quiet Cove Pool that’s scream-free.

Modern cruising now incorporates all the luxury you expect from a cruise experience and spices things up with one-of-a-kind ship attractions that bring the adventure back on board.

Five crazy cruise features you have to try

3351 West Burleigh Blvd.Tavares, FL 32778

352.508.5137

Our menu features a unique dockside twist to the classic Hurricane Grill & Wings® menu. Hurricane®

Dockside Grill infuses several traditional Hurri-cane Grill & Wings® menu items, including their award-winning jumbo sized chicken wings and

32 original sauces.

MondayBuy One Get One

1/2 Price

TuesdayKids EAT FREE

with paid adult

WednesdayLadies Night

Ladies get complimentary house drink

Friday & Saturday10% O� CARRY OUT

Live Entertainment Thursday-Sundayhurricanedocksidegrill.com

11am-10pmSunday -Thursday

11am-11pmFriday and Saturday

Premium Maintenance PackageIncludes:

• 21 point Inspection • Inline Coil Cleaning • Coil Sanitizing • Duct Freshening

$59.00

March 2014 issue

Documents

Transcript of March 2014 issue