president’s messageelw.homestead.com/heron_august_2016_proof.pdfegos, to try to divide and...

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WHAT’S IMPORTANT By Jaime L. Soderland, MBA, PCAM Liberty Landscaping has been hired to take care of the Community Association Grounds. They have just started the week of July 11th. We have seen positive results so far, but just as with any new company there is a learning curve. If you see any areas that you feel are questionable please feel free to contact me. Thank you all in advance!! “Train yourself to listen to that small voice that tells us what’s important and what’s not” – Sue Grafton PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE by Judy Fosbrook, President It’s been a long, hot summer here in the Community! I’m looking for a decrease in the temperature as well as a decrease in the rhetoric among some of our residents. I have said numerous times that we are all in this together; we are a community, and it helps no one, other than certain egos, to try to divide and alienate the rest of us. By the time you are reading this, the swale cleanup should be almost completed. If not already added, there will be “v” cuts from the roads to the swales in the areas where water has always accumulated. At the same time, our engineering firm, EMK, has completed the RFP and has put the drainage maintenance and cleanup plan out for bids. We will most certainly share with all of you what the cost will be for the Community Association’s share, for Club Corps share, and East Lake Water. Once we have those figures, we will be in a better position to determine the how and when of funding. If we’re lucky, we should be able to obtain funding to complete the project in one year. If you have any questions regarding the drainage maintenance in your own sub-division, please do not hesitate to contact either myself or Jack Picker, Board chairman of lakes and drainage. One of us will be able to answer your questions. Also, if you are contemplating discussing your own drainage questions at a future board meeting of your HOA and you would like a representative from the Board to attend, please do not hesitate to call us. Thank you and remember the big yellow buses will be rolling through our streets very soon! RULES OF THE ROAD by Keith Crank I would like to take a couple of minutes to discuss the rules of the road with respect to the speed limit signs and the solid double yellow lines on the roads within Eastlake Woodlands. As most of us are aware there are good reasons we have speed limits within our community. We have communities where homes are directly adjacent to main thoroughfares and cars have to exit directly unto these main thoroughfares. The reduction of the speed limit in these areas is for safety reasons. When is speed limit is reduced from 30 mph to 20 mph it is because people or pets are very near the main thoroughfare and by reducing the speed we are traveling we also reduce the distance it takes to stop our vehicles in case of an emergency. Please slow down when the speed limit is reduced. It really is done for good reasons. With respect to the solid double yellow lines I hope that everyone who operates a vehicle is aware that you are not allowed to cross these lines unless you are turning left and then only when it is safe to do so. You are not allowed to cross these lines to pass another vehicle. On the main thoroughfares within Eastlake passing is not allowed. I would like to relate to a situation that happened to me recently when I was traveling on Eastlake Woodlands Parkway going through Greenhaven III and IV. As I was traveling north I entered a 20mph zone in Greenhaven a white Tesla pulled up very close behind me. I stopped at the first stop sign in Greenhaven and as I started moving again the Tesla did a rolling stop through the stop sign and once again closed in very close to me. I then stopped at the second stop sign and to my surprise the driver in the Tesla pulled out and passed me. Where I was passed was on a curve and fortunately no vehicles were coming from the other direction or there could have been a head-on accident. I hope the person in the white Tesla made it to their destination safely because he certainly was not driving in a safe manner. I thought this was probably an isolated incident but a week later a friend told me of the same type of a situation again in Greenhaven III and IV. This time it was a lady driving a large white SUV possibly a Chevrolet Tahoe. This time when the lady passed my friend she gave him the one finger salute and sped away well over the 20 mph speed limit. These incidents both happened in Greenhaven III and IV but neither of the drivers was from this community because they entered from outside Greenhaven. Can you imagine if a resident had backed out into the street or a child or pet had run into the street Let’s all just slow down a little and adhere to the rules of the road and we will all be better off for it. We are now in the rainy season and I have noticed that some turfing has started. Should anyone see someone turfing please try to get the license plate number so we pursue the person for the cost of fixing what he or she so maliciously did. Many of us will be going on vacation over the summer and I would just like to remind you that you can take advantage of having our patrol officers check your residence while you are away. Just call the Tampa Road gate at 727-785-7384 and tell that you will be away and would they please check your residence. They will be more than happy to check your residence on a daily basis. As always in an emergency always call 911. Should you need to get in touch with the Pinellas County sheriff’s office the non-emergency number is 727-582- 6200. The community patrol can be reached at 727-785-7384. Once again let’s slow down and everyone have a safe and happy summer and take care on vacation. ECRWSS EAST LAKE WOODLANDS RESIDENT PRSRT STD US POSTAGE PAID TAMPA, FL PERMIT #1502 ECRWSS OFFICIAL PUBLICATION FOR EAST LAKE WOODLANDS COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION Volume 16 | Issue 8 | 2016 WWW.EASTLAKEWOODLANDS.COM

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Page 1: presIdent’s messageelw.homestead.com/Heron_August_2016_Proof.pdfegos, to try to divide and alienate the rest of us. By the time you are reading this, the swale cleanup should be

What’s ImportantBy Jaime L. Soderland, MBA, PCAM

Liberty Landscaping has been hired to take care of the Community Association Grounds. They have just started the week of July 11th. We have seen positive results so far, but just as with any new company there is a learning curve. If you see any areas that you feel are questionable please feel free to contact me. Thank you all in advance!!

“Train yourself to listen to that small voice that tells us what’s important and what’s not” – Sue Grafton

presIdent’s messageby Judy Fosbrook, President

It’s been a long, hot summer here in the Community! I’m looking for a decrease in the temperature as well as a decrease in the rhetoric among some of our residents. I have said numerous times that we are all in this together; we are a community, and it helps no one, other than certain egos, to try to divide and alienate the rest of us.

By the time you are reading this, the swale cleanup should be almost completed. If not already added, there will be “v” cuts from the roads to the swales in the areas where water has always accumulated.

At the same time, our engineering firm, EMK, has completed the RFP and has put the drainage maintenance and cleanup plan out for bids. We will most certainly share with all of you what the cost will be for the Community Association’s share, for Club Corps share, and East Lake Water. Once we have those figures, we will be in a better position to determine the how and when of funding. If we’re lucky, we should be able to obtain funding to complete the project in one year.

If you have any questions regarding the drainage maintenance in your own sub-division, please do not hesitate to contact either myself or Jack Picker, Board chairman of lakes and drainage. One of us will be able to answer your questions. Also, if you are contemplating discussing your own drainage questions at a future board meeting of your HOA and you would like a representative from the Board to attend, please do not hesitate to call us.

Thank you and remember the big yellow buses will be rolling through our streets very soon!

rules of the roadby Keith Crank

I would like to take a couple of minutes to discuss the rules of the road with respect to the speed limit signs and the solid double yellow

lines on the roads within Eastlake Woodlands. As most of us are aware there are good reasons we have speed limits within our community. We have communities where homes are directly adjacent to main thoroughfares and cars have to exit directly unto these main thoroughfares. The reduction of the speed limit in these areas is for safety reasons. When is speed limit is reduced from 30 mph to 20 mph it is because people or pets are very near the main thoroughfare and by reducing the speed we are traveling we also reduce the distance it

takes to stop our vehicles in case of an emergency. Please slow down when the speed limit is reduced. It really is done for good reasons.

With respect to the solid double yellow lines I hope that everyone who operates a vehicle is aware that you are not allowed to cross these lines unless you are turning left and then only when it is safe to do so.

You are not allowed to cross these lines to pass another vehicle. On the main thoroughfares within Eastlake passing is not allowed. I would like to relate to a situation that happened to me recently when I was traveling on Eastlake Woodlands Parkway going through Greenhaven III and IV. As I was traveling north I entered a 20mph zone in Greenhaven a white Tesla pulled up very close behind me. I stopped at the first stop sign in Greenhaven and as I started moving again the Tesla did a rolling stop through the stop sign and once again closed in very close to me.

I then stopped at the second stop sign and to my surprise the driver in the Tesla pulled out and passed me. Where I was passed was on a curve and fortunately no vehicles were coming from the other direction or there could have been a head-on accident. I hope the person in the white Tesla made it to their destination safely because he certainly was not driving in a safe manner.

I thought this was probably an isolated incident but a week later a friend told me of the same type of a situation again in Greenhaven III and IV. This time it was a lady driving a large white SUV possibly a Chevrolet Tahoe. This time when the lady passed my friend she gave him the one finger salute and sped away well over the 20 mph speed limit.

These incidents both happened in Greenhaven III and IV but neither of the drivers was from this community because they entered from outside Greenhaven. Can you imagine if a resident had backed out into the street or a child or pet had run into the street

Let’s all just slow down a little and adhere to the rules of the road and we will all be better off for it.

We are now in the rainy season and I have noticed that some turfing has started. Should anyone see someone turfing please try to get the license plate number so we pursue the person for the cost of fixing what he or she so maliciously did.

Many of us will be going on vacation over the summer and I would just like to remind you that you can take advantage of having our patrol officers check your residence while you are away. Just call the Tampa Road gate at 727-785-7384 and tell that you will be away and would they please check your residence. They will be more than happy to check your residence on a daily basis. As always in an emergency always call 911. Should you need to get in touch with the Pinellas

County sheriff’s office the non-emergency number is 727-582-6200.

The community patrol can be reached at 727-785-7384. Once again let’s slow down and everyone have a safe and happy

summer and take care on vacation.

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Official PublicatiOn fOr East lakE WOOdlands cOmmunity assOciatiOn

Volume 16 | Issue 8 | 2016 www.eastlakewoodlands.com

Page 2: presIdent’s messageelw.homestead.com/Heron_August_2016_Proof.pdfegos, to try to divide and alienate the rest of us. By the time you are reading this, the swale cleanup should be

East lakE WOOdlands cOmmunity assOciatiOn - august 20162

HOA Publishers, Inc. 727-403-5506

5420 Pioneer Park Blvd. Suite C Tampa, FL, 33634 Submit articles to:

www.HOApub.comProduction Manager ........Claudia Huerta

Director of Bus. Development ... Jarrod Wallach

The East Lake Woodlands Heron is distributed free by HOA Publishers to all East Lake Woodlands residents, paid for through ad revenue. The Eastlake Woodlands Board of Directors welcomes all residents to submit positive and informative articles about our community.

Total Circulation: 4,500Mailed to all homes in East Lake Woodlands and available online.

www.EastLakeWoodlands.com

The Heron assumes no responsibility for the advertising contents of its publication. No endorsement of any product or service is made by the Heron and none should be inferred. We reserve the right to reject any advertisement that we believe would not benefit the residents of East Lake Woodlands. We do not knowingly accept objectionable or fraudulent advertising.

Judy fosbrook, presidentChairman: Administrative [email protected]

Keith Crank, Vice presidentChairman: Controlled Access [email protected]

Janet peterson, treasurerChairman: Finance [email protected]

Chuck fairman, secretaryChairman: Roads [email protected]

pam Brown, directorChairman: Grounds/Irrigation [email protected]

richard Corrigan, directorChairman: Government [email protected] hunt, directorChairman: Communications [email protected] picker, directorChairman: Lakes/Drainage [email protected] WhiteheadChairman: [email protected] l. soderland, [email protected] and Associates720 Brooker Creek Blvd. #206 Oldsmar, FL 34677813-433-2000

elW CommunIty assoC., InC. Board of dIreCtors

HOAPUBLISHERS

like us on facebook

HOAPublishers/

east laKe Woodlands CommunIty patrol report

tampa road gate 727-785-7384 or north gate 727-785-1465

June 2016Patrol Officers responded to 52 callsEmergency Calls 1Complaint Calls

(Noise, speeders, solicitors,Domestic disputes, trespass, fireworks, suspicious persons/cars)

16

Parking Violations 132Irrigation Calls 1Motor Vehicle/ Pedestrian Accidents 3Crimes Reported

(Vandalism to mailboxes, gates, grass damage, stolen bikes, dumping, all other criminal activity)

6

Miscellaneous/Other(Welfare checks, pets, wildlife, all others) 22

The Sheriff monitored 33 hours during April 2016 Performed 3 Hours of Presence/Visibility.Citations 5, Warnings 39Top speed: 45/30 MPH.

Budget for 2017by Janet Peterson, Treasurer

In my capacity as Treasurer of ELWCA, I am now forming a budget committee for the purpose of drafting a budget for 2017 calendar year. We, the Board, would like to get input from the presidents of the local associations for this process. This is another step in our

desire to increase interest and input in the association’s processes from our members. If you are not a president and wish to help, please get your presidents’ agreement for you to take his or her place.

If you are interested in helping with this task, please send me an e-mail with the answers to the questions below to [email protected] no later than August 20, 2016.

•Your name•Your association name•Your position on the local board and years of service•Experience with budgeting and financial processes•Availability in the coming months to assist in the budgeting

process•Best way to contact you (e-mail, phone number)

Page 3: presIdent’s messageelw.homestead.com/Heron_August_2016_Proof.pdfegos, to try to divide and alienate the rest of us. By the time you are reading this, the swale cleanup should be

East lakE WOOdlands cOmmunity assOciatiOn - august 2016 3

east laKe fIre resCue Water safety CanVass eVentby Claudia Faiola, Public Education Officer

Following a recent near drowning incident within our district, East Lake Fire Rescue held a Water Safety Neighborhood Canvass at Golfside of Lansbrook on June 28th. Members of East Lake Fire Rescue, Safe Kids, CERT and North Pinellas YMCA knocked on every door within the neighborhood distributing bags filled with drowning prevention materials. The bags were filled with many goodies including a water safety coloring book, information on CPR classes, swimming lessons in the East Lake area and a water watcher badge.

The water watcher badge is a necklace worn by the adult in charge of keeping their eyes on the children while the children are in the water. If that adult needs to step away, they either take off the necklace and give the responsibility to another adult, or get the children out of the water. The bag also included the “FIVE Layers of Pool Safety” which is shown in the picture.

East Lake Fire Rescue will be distributing these bags throughout the district. If you would like to have a bag, please call 727-784-8668 ex. 204.

Page 4: presIdent’s messageelw.homestead.com/Heron_August_2016_Proof.pdfegos, to try to divide and alienate the rest of us. By the time you are reading this, the swale cleanup should be

East lakE WOOdlands cOmmunity assOciatiOn - august 20164

friendly. The highlight of my day with these guys was witnessing Bill press forward through some of his anxieties about the experience and end up proving to himself that could conquer his fears. All at age 59 & 1/2 right Bill ? Also, I’d like to thank Skip’s wife Brenda and Bill’s wife Pam for providing us with lasting memories of our day Zip lining with lots of great pictures.

So, I’d like to express my appreciation to Empower Adventures for not only providing

some “old” guys with a couple of hours worth of excitement but for also being a full page advertiser in this very publication, our own ELWCA Heron. And finally, special thanks to Skip and Bill for including me in their plans this year, yet I can’t keep from wondering about what new adventure awaits these two next year ????

“It’s time to say goodbye, but I think goodbyes are sad and I’d much rather say hello. Hello to a new adventure.”

Ernie Harwell

Management & Assocs.813-433-2000AberdeenCluster 1Cluster 2Cluster 3Condo 5Cross CreekCypress 1ELW Community Assn.EnclaveGreenhaven 1Greenhaven 2Greenhaven 3 & 4PinewindsPinnacleQuail ForestSilverthorneSt. AndrewsWoodlands EstatesWoods LandingWorthington

Self-ManagedAvenelLake Shore VistaWarwick HillsAmeri-Tech Prop. Mgmt.727-726-8000Condo 2Condo 4Condo 7CreeksideTurtle Creek 1 & 2Caliber Management727-796-1996Condo 1Condo 6Citadel Management727-938-7730Cypress 3Woodlake Run 1, 2 & 3Associa Gulf Coast (813) 963-6400Condo 3

e.l.W. management CompanIesElite Property Mgmt.727-224-1871The Meadows Hunter’s CrossingFirst Choice Management727-785-8887The Cove at East Lake WoodlandsLake EstatesPreserveWoodridge GreenHoliday Isles Prop. Mgmt.727-548-9402Cross PointeInnovative Community Mgmt.727-938-3700MuirfieldJim Nobles727-447-8949Stonebriar

Progressive Mgmt.727-773-9542Cypress 2Cluster 4Cluster 5Heatherwood/Laurel OaksPatio HomesProperty Group of Cent. Fla.727-771-7753Diamond CrestIsleworthResource Management727-796-5900DeerpathHunter’s TrailSentry Management727-799-8982KingsmillCypress ITurtle Creek 3 & 4

As of 3/23/2016

sKIp and BIll’s exCellent adVenture part IIby Jeff Hunt

If you remember from last summer, the dynamic duo of neighbors, Skip Holmes and Bill Brown attended a weekend series of Rays baseball in the friendly confines of Fenway Park

courtesy of Skip’s wife Brenda and her winning bid in the Rays broadcast auction. This year the guys decided to keep their adventure local AND invited me to join them. I believe that Skip just wanted to see if I was brave enough to go with them, while I think Bill reasoned there would be safety in numbers.

So what did these two very active retirees choose for some summer fun? Zip lining on Oldsmar’s very own brand new course, of course.

Empower Adventures just opened their Zip line a few months ago at the Mobbly Bayou Wilderness Preserve. Located at 423 Lafayette Boulevard, they are open 7 days a week. For those of you that might not be familiar with Zip lining, it is an amusement activity in which you are suspended in a harness via a pulley attached to an inclined cable

that is connected between two bases (typically poles,trees, bridges,etc). Got it ? If not, check out the pictures from our day or visit Empower Adventures website at www.zipontampabay.com for more information, pictures and requirements. They can also be reached by calling 813-448-5635.

The course offers great views of the surrounding area (you can see downtown Tampa and Tropicana Field from the top of those base poles) and also includes trekking across a suspended cable bridge which I thought was uniquely different. Our guides were very good and made our our day more enjoyable by being outgoing and

Already planning the next adventure

Looks like Skip does this for a living

Skip, myself and Bill learning to fly!

Waiting for the next flightWatching Bill zoom around the course

Page 5: presIdent’s messageelw.homestead.com/Heron_August_2016_Proof.pdfegos, to try to divide and alienate the rest of us. By the time you are reading this, the swale cleanup should be

East lakE WOOdlands cOmmunity assOciatiOn - august 2016 5

east laKe Woodlands Country CluBby Ben Hanson, Director of Operations

Attention East Lake Woodlands Community! The New Resort style pool at ELWCC is officially OPEN! Splash Pad is going, mini golf is ready for play, and the New CrossRoads Café is open for business! We are looking forward to showing off our Club improvements to as many of you as possible, and over the next couple months we will have plenty of opportunities to experience the club through Open Houses. Come JOIN IN THE FUN!

Just to remind you all of what we have done to the facility:• New Café• New Splash Pad• New Mini Golf• New pavers on pool deck• Fire Pit• New pool and café furniture• Improved landscaping• New fencing• AND WiFi, Music, and Other Games

Also, wanted to make you all aware of a SPECIAL EAST LAKE WOODLANDS RESIDENT SOCIAL OFFER! Starting now for all ELW residents we are waiving the initiation fee, giving you HALF OFF DUES for the remainder of the year, and ALSO a $25 monthly Club spending credit for 12 months! There are other promotions going on as well for Golf and Tennis Membership, and please contact Courtney Smith and Michael LaBrecque in the Membership Office for more details on those. 727-784-8576 ext: 16 & 12

Construction has already begun on phase two of our REINVENTION Project for our New Fitness Center. We are targeting completion for September 1st, and we will have all new equipment, new technology, more space, additional room for Group Exercise Class (yoga, spin, etc), updated flooring and finishes, WiFi, & Music!

Exciting times for ELWCC, and looking forward to seeing our Membership Family grow! If you are interested in experiencing the RESORT style pool please contact Courtney and Michael for a tour, and also a Member for a day experience.

Page 6: presIdent’s messageelw.homestead.com/Heron_August_2016_Proof.pdfegos, to try to divide and alienate the rest of us. By the time you are reading this, the swale cleanup should be

East lakE WOOdlands cOmmunity assOciatiOn - august 20166

5 thIngs you Can do to ImproVe the looK of your yard today

(BPT) - You’ve waited all winter for the chance to transform your lawn from that drab, frozen tundra into the lush, green oasis you know it can be. But this transformation doesn’t happen overnight, and you can’t expect Mother Nature to take care of everything herself. Getting your dream yard is going to require a little work on your part, but the rewards are worth the efforts and as you’ll see, even the smallest changes can have a big impact. Follow each of the five simple tips below and you’ll be enjoying your yard all season long.

Water more heavily, less often. When it comes to watering your lawn, less is more, provided you’re talking about watering frequency and not water amount. Instead of several light sprinklings, give your lawn one thorough watering (about an inch a week) and you’ll ensure more of the water is absorbed by your lawn instead of being lost to evaporation.

Cut right, cut smart. When it comes to lawn care, having the right mower makes all the difference. Husqvarna lawn mowers with high performance cutting decks will give superior cut quality and performance and most are capable of bagging, mulching or straight discharge. If your lawn is rough or hilly, a self-propelled drive system can take the work out of mowing. Some models now even have capability of four-wheel drive to further reduce effort.

Trim back o v e r g r o w n trees and bushes. The most beautiful yard in the world can be quickly overshadowed - literally and figuratively - by unkempt trees and bushes. How far you trim back your trees and bushes is a matter of preference, but any dead branches should be removed. After that, make sure you trim uniformly and clean up when you’re done to finish that polished look.

Take the time to aerate. One of the most effective ways to support new grass growth is to aerate your lawn. Using a mechanical or manual aerator, you can punch small holes in the soil, allowing much-needed water, air and nutrients to make it down to the root structure, supporting future grass development and long-term yard health.

Get motivated to mulch. Regular mulching reduces weeds while promoting the health and growth of your lawn by returning needed nutrients back to the soil. In addition, because mulch clippings are comprised of 85 percent water and just 5 percent nitrogen, leaving them on your lawn can satisfy as much as 25 percent of your fertilizer needs. So the next time you feel the need to bag, opt to mulch instead.

After months of winter weather, you’re ready to relax on your beautiful green lawn once again, and getting there is easier than you think. Apply the tips above and you’ll be able to create the yard that’s perfect for everything you have planned for the season. For more tips on improving your lawn and to learn more about Husqvarna mowers and dealer locations, visit www.Husqvarna.com/us.

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East lakE WOOdlands cOmmunity assOciatiOn - august 2016 7

outsIde the gatesBy Richard Corrigan, Director

Old NewsFor those of you who might have been away

or missed the July issue of the Heron, here is a rehash of a couple points that we thought might be important for residents and their HOAs. If you have questions on the following please contact us. “Finally, a little education about your system might help you save a little money.”

If you have flood insurance, either required by your lender or at your own discretion, Pinellas County has been able to upgrade the designation of flood zones for the unincorporated areas of the county (see attached). nellas County has been able to upgrade the You may be able to obtain a discount to your flood insurance policy premium. For more information go to http://go.activecalendar.com/pinellascounty/site/pressrelease/event/flood-insurance-discounts-for-unincorporated-pinellas/

Check your TRIM notice or tax bill received from the county. You will notice at the bottom (along with a green flier included with the TRIM Notice or the actual property Tax Bill) an assessment for storm water runoff based on the area of impenetrable surface of your dwelling. If your subdivision drainage system is inspected and certified this charge can be reduced by about 50% or so. Depending on the type of structure, rebates can range from about $10 to several hundred dollars. The application period is by the end of March and is good for two years; households within certified systems must apply individually. The county maintains a list of approved system inspectors that can certify your system. Go to http://www.pinellascounty.org/environment/watershed/stormwater-fee.htm for more details

As the Community Association evaluates and repairs the master drainage system it is possible we can get the whole ELW system certified without significant involvement of the local authorities. Even subdivisions without lakes or ponds should be eligible if drainage is into an acceptable system Please notify the Community Association if your HOA plans to pursue certification on its own.

Other News Continuing on the subject of water, the Council of North County

Neighborhoods (CNCN) is scheduling a seminar on Water and Surface Runoff for all its constituents in the North County region. The proposed agenda includes topics such as:

The Big Picture: how North County is situated in the overall flood plain that includes Lake Tarpon, Brooker Creek as well as Pasco and Hillsborough counties.

The Master Community Association: roles, responsibilities and resources.

HOAs and H2O: what individual HOAs can and should do to maintain their drainage systems and their retention or detention ponds.

The Environment and You: tips and tricks to use your own homes’ surface runoff effectively, reduce algae bloom in your ponds and minimize impact on the environment.

See the CNCN website at CNCNPC.org for more details, venue and dates.

In case you have lived under a rock for the past year, election season is upon us. While “Hill” and “the Donald” will capture most of the attention, our local elections have a more direct impact on our day to day lives in North County. Primary elections will be held on Aug 30 with mail ballots going out at the end of July. In addition to local primary races for two judgeships; the county appraiser (home valuation anyone), and two school board seats are also being contested in the primaries as well as several federal and state positions. New voter registration cards have been mailed out so be sure to check them for accuracy. For most of us the East Lake Woodland Country Club will be the polling place if you don’t use mail-in ballots. CNCN held a primary candidate forum along with Palm Harbor Chamber of Commerce on July 18 and plans to hold future sessions on the state election candidates and the fire district positions in the upcoming months as well as discussions on the constitutional amendments that will be on the ballot in November. As we used to say in New Jersey, “vote early and vote often”.

“Nothing is softer or more flexible than water, yet nothing can resist it.” Lao Tzu

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East lakE WOOdlands cOmmunity assOciatiOn - august 20168

BaCK to sChool safety tIps Judy Gauron, Controlled Access Committee

Summer is drawing to a close and back to school activities are in full swing. Part of going back to school is preparing your kids to travel safely to and from school grounds. What can your kids do to be safe?

•Have your kids travel to school in a group or with an adult.

•Communicate with your kids if someone out of the ordinary is picking them up. Children should not get in a car, even if it is a neighbor or an acquaintance, unless you have set up the ride and let them know about it.

•Instead of offering kids candy or gifts, predators often ask kids for “help” to get children in or near their vehicle. Remind your kids that adults don’t need help and there is never a good reason to get in a vehicle without a parent’s permission.

•We recommend keeping a thumb drive on your key ring with the following: current ID-like pictures, fingerprints, a list of allergies, and their doctors’ contact information. This thumb drive can quickly and easily be handed to a deputy should you, or your daycare provider, somehow become separated from your child.

Please observe the Pinellas County posted 15 mph school zones. Speeding in construction zones will also result in increased penalties.

Passing a stopped school bus violation: $271.00Speeding in a school zone1-9 mph: $156.0010-14 mph: $306.0015-19 mph: $406.0020-29 mph: $456.0030+ mph: Mandatory Court

Appearance

Beat the heatPam Brown, ELW Resident

The following information is re-printed from the University of Florida/IFAS “Solutions for your Life” website: Beat the Heat http://extension.ifas.ufl.edu/hot_topics/agriculture/heat_stress.html

Summer in Florida can be overwhelmingly hot, even for long-time residents. Heat stress,

heat exhaustion, and heat stroke are illnesses that can overcome you when your body is unable to cool itself.

TIPs fOr sTAyING COOl•slow down. Do strenuous activities at the coolest time of the

day. At-risk individuals should stay in the coolest available place, which may not be indoors.

•Dress for summer. Lightweight, light-colored clothing reflects heat and sunlight and helps your body maintain normal temperatures.

•Do not get too much sun. Sunburn makes it harder for you to cool off.

•Drink water. Your body needs water to keep cool. Drink plenty of fluids even if you do not feel thirsty. (People who have epilepsy or heart, kidney, or liver disease; are on fluid-restrictive diets; or have a problem with fluid retention should consult a physician before increasing their consumption of fluids.)

•Do not drink alcoholic beverages. Alcohol dehydrates you.•spend more time in air-conditioned places. Spending some

time each day in an air-conditioned environment can offer some protection.

•Never leave children or pets in a parked car. The temperature inside cars can rise to 135°F in less than ten minutes, which can kill children or pets. If you see a child or pet left unattended in a parked car, you should call 911.

fACTOrs leADING TO HeAT sTressHeat stress disorders develop when the body cannot shed excess heat.

A variety of factors can come into play, but most heat-related illnesses share a common feature: a person has been overexposed to heat, or over-exercised, for his age and physical condition.

The chance for heat-related illnesses is greater when the following occur:

•High temperature and humidity.•Activity in direct sun.•Limited air movement or cooling.•Physical exertion.•Poor physical condition.•Some medications can also increase susceptibility to heat.

symPTOms Of HeAT-relATeD IllNessesHeat Cramps

•Painful muscle spasms, usually in legs, possibly abdomen.•Heavy sweating.

Heat exhaustion•Headaches, dizziness, or fainting.•Heavy sweating; cold, clammy skin.•Irritability or confusion.•Weakness, vomiting.•Weak pulse.•Can have a normal body temperature.

Heat stroke•Dry, hot skin with no sweating.•Confusion, possible loss of consciousness or seizures.•Rapid, strong pulse.•High body temperature (106ºF or higher).

TreATING HeAT-relATeD IllNess•Get out of the sun. Move the affected person to a cool, shaded

area, preferably an air-conditioned room.

Continued on page 9

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ColleCtIBle BIts and pIeCesBy Paul J.H. Leaser

ConComItantAstonishing coincidences that surrounded

the deaths of two martyrs for freedom:

•Lincolnelectedin1860.

•Kennedyelectedin1960.

•Therearesevenlettersineachname.

•Both presidentswere slain on aFriday.

•Bothslaininpresenceoftheirwives.

•Bothfavoredcivilrights.

• Both had legality of Electionscontested.

•Kennedy’ssecretaryLincolnwarnedhimnottogotoDallas.

•Lincoln’ssecretaryKennedywarnedhimnottogotothetheater.

•BothoftheirsuccessorswerenamedJohnson.(AndrewJohnson,Lyndon Johnson)

•OswaldshotKennedyfromawarehouseandhidinatheater.

•BoothshotLincolninatheaterandhidinawarehouse.

•LincolnandKennedywere both carried in death on the same caisson.

•BoothandOswaldwereborn exactly 100 years apart.

•Booth,Oswald; eachname has 15 letters.

gettIng CasualBy Sally Giar

As easy-going as they appear, casual decorating schemes don’t just fall into place. There’s a world of difference between the casual room that has evolved haphazardly and one that is well decorated. Good casual decorating takes into account both comfort and style.

Starting with comfort factor, furniture should look inviting. But more importantly, it must feel good. Deep-seated sofas and overstuffed arm chairs with ottomans send message, “Come, sit here.” Certain fabrics and materials lend themselves to the casual style. Leather is an excellent choice, as are chenille and textured fabrics. Save your elegant florals and silks for your formal room.

Refer to nature for ideas. Natural materials are inherently pleasing to the senses and always at home in a casual setting. Exposed wood beams, hard wood floors, and rustic tile give a room an easy, relaxed feel. Add an area rug to soften the look and absorb sound. Bring the outdoors inside with a few houseplants. If you’re not much of a green thumb, consider some of the authentic-looking permanent botanicals. A texturing paint or wall covering will add depth and warmth to your casual setting.

Asymmetrical furniture arrangements are perfect in an informal room. Pull your furniture away from the walls and experiment with angular arrangements. Avoid the predictable look of sets of matching end tables and coffee tables.

Casual design applies to wall and tabletop accessories as well. Accessory pieces should be in odd numbers and of varying sizes and shapes.

When looking for a respite from the hustle and hustle of your daily routine, your casually decorated room will offer a relaxing retreat.

•Slow down and cool down. Lay the victim down and loosen or remove heavy clothing. Let him takesips of water if he is able*.

•Massage spasms. Firm pressure on muscles or gentle massage will help relieve spasms.

•Cool the skin. Fan and mist or sponge the person with water.•Seek medical help. Heat stroke is a medical emergency. Dial

911 or get the victim to a hospital as quickly as possible.*Do not give a person fluids if he is nauseous and/or has continued

vomiting. Seek medical help.Adapted and excerpted from:“Heat Stress Disorders,” UF/IFAS Disaster Handbook(1998).“Heat Wave,” Florida Division of Emergency Management (rev.

9/2010).“Protect Yourself: Heat Stress” (3.3MB pdf), OSHA (2010).

Beat the Heat... continued from page 8.

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www.eastlakeeyecare.com Dr. Tara Rusoff Dr. Stephanie Coates

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for 14 to 15 days, and the chicks remain in the nest after hatching. The chicks are blind and naked at birth (altricial), and have short bills and specialized pads on their heels to protect them from the rough floor of the nest. They are fed by both of their parents and fledge after about 6 weeks. The parents will continue to feed the chicks for several weeks after they leave the nest.

Predators probably include a wide variety of bird-eating raptors, especially hawks and falcons. Additional predators of nests are weasels and monkeys.

Please see my favorite photographs at www.flickr.com/jake_jacoby

Jake

BIrd of the monthCosta rICa’s emerald touCanetBy Jake Jacoby

While visiting Costa Rica in March this year, I was fascinated by the appearance of the beautiful, multi-colored, Emerald Toucanet. They are a small toucan of the highlands in both Central and South America. As you can see in

the attached photographs, they are green overall with a black bill and varying amounts of yellow, particularly on top of the bill, as well as a deep blue and a rufous (reddish-brown) color on the tail. This feather

coloration makes them blend in with the colors of the flora and fauna and the trees in their habitat.

The male and female Emerald Toucanet are monomorphic (alike) in color but dimorphic (different) in size with the female being slightly smaller with a shorter bill. Emerald Toucanets are omnivorous (feed on both plants and animals), eating lizards and the eggs or nestlings of other birds when available. Although,

insects and fruits are the largest part of their diet. Small flocks, usually consisting to 10 to 15 birds, routinely move through the forest in “follow-my-leader” style with a direct and rapid flight.

The bill of the Emerald Toucanet is a very efficient thermo-regulation system which serves as “air conditioning”. The long reach aids in gathering food, with minimum energy expenditure, and it can reach into areas unavailable to other birds. The bill also reaches fruit on branches that might not be able to support the bird’s weight. It also intimidates other birds, allowing the toucanet to plunder their nests. Emerald Toucanets also fence with their bills,

possibly to establish hierarchy within a group. The bill is not effective for digging or any other type of extensive excavation work and so they must rely on holes already formed by other means for nesting cavities.

The mating ritual of the Emerald Toucanet is a fun-loving affair, as they throw fruit to one another. During courtship and the actual act of mating, both birds patiently feed each other. After mating, the Emerald Toucanet female will lay 3 or 4 glossy white eggs in an unlined hole in a tree, usually an abandoned woodpecker nest, but sometimes in a natural cavity. Both sexes incubate the eggs

BIrd faCtIs the Toucan’s bill heavy and why is it so big?

Surprisingly, the Emerald Toucanet’s bill is very light for its size while the neck is very strong and short to help with balance. The bill’s structure is formed by a highly organized matrix of thin criss-crossed bony “rods”, filled-in with a spongy form of keratin, creating a horny sheath (similar to fingernails) with serrated edges resembling teeth designed for tearing fruit, the principal component of the diet.

The thin, feather-like grey tongue extends to the end of the bill which is otherwise hollow. The feathering effect exposes more taste-buds, enhancing the importance of taste to the bird.

Emerald Toucanet

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FOR SALEFOR SALE MIKASA Dishes/FOOTLOOSE Service/8 Over 60 pcs Value $1000 $250 OBO - 727-934-7422Armoire desk, bookshelf, chair $350.Leather loveseat $150. Baseball net$100 - 7276980888Beautiful dark brown sectional sofa with chaise and sleeper. 7274218271 - 7274218271Sewing Machine, Janome Excelent condition $100. - 727-7874629For Sale Lift chair,gently rocks and reclines. Excellent condition.$225. - 727 474 7548Cats for adoption.(3-8 yrs. old). Fully Clothes Dryer. Used for only a few months. In excellent condition. ELW resident $100. 727-244-0345Yard blower $20 - 727-375-4389Jazzy chair select had for a year barley used. - 727-771-2890Whirlpool Dishwasher in good condition. $150 obo - 727-793-4076Whirlpool Stove in good condition. $150 obo - 727-793-4076Whirlpool microwave in exec. condition. $50 obo - 727-793-4076Whirlpool refrigerator in exec. condition.$300 obo - 727-793-4076Steel handcart w/ rubber wheels $45 - 727-784-75352 Office panels 5’X5’ steel frame grey fabric $50 each. - 727-784-7535Steel office/utility table, legs fold under $75 - 727-784-75354 five gal. plastic gas cans $10 each - 727-784-7535Coffee table by Stanley - Luna finish (lite oak) wood & glass 36” square; in VERY good condition; $175. Call 727-366-1127Entertainment armoire by Stanley - Luna finish (lite oak wood} 35” W x 58” H; excellent condition. Two doors on top area that slide to sides of TV ; two cabinet doors on bottom. $150. Call 727-366-1127 Ping-pong table FREE you haul. - 724-612-1645 Pampered Chef kitchen tools for sale - 727-793-4076 PartyLite candles products for sale. - 727-793-4076 Singer sewing machine in wooden cabinet $50.00 727-787-179642” Round glass top pod iron table with 4 matching chairs $175.00 727-787-1796

for rent River Ridge The Oaks 7925 Chadwick Drive New Port Richey Florida 34654. 3 BDRM 2 Bath Master walk in closet. Eat in Kitchen , living room , dining room open

floor plan laundry room 2 car garage, all rooms ceramic tile, deposit required. $ 900.00 per month. Screened Lanai large back yard. Community Pool Included. 727-946-7455 FOR RENT: 2/2/2 furnished house North Clearwater, fenced yard. $1200/mo. - 727-242-6082

Job seekersStart your own business backed by a company with more than a century of quality and service for only $10.00. Contact: Julie Potter, Avon Independent Sales Representative. Call: 727-810-1352 or e-mail me at [email protected] or visit my website: www.youravon.com/Jpotter

Help offered NAR-ANON FAMILY GROUPSnaranonfl.org - 727-463-0820Helping Hands 4 u. Errands, Shopping,etc. - 727-512-4844 NAR-ANON -Are you effected by by someone’s addiction? Do you keep trying to make things better and nothing helps? We are a world wide fellowship that offers help by sharing our experience, strength, and hope. Join us Saturdays @ 10:00 A.M. 207 Buckingham Ave. East – Oldsmar (United Methodist Church) For additional meetings: naranonfl.org or call 1-888-947-8885Alzheimer’s Family Organization Are you a Primary Caregiver for someone with Alzheimer’s Disease or other Dementia? You are not alone. Support Groups, Respite, Education, Wanderer’s Bracelet or Pendant and additional tools for your support. 727-848-8888.Recovery International Abraham Low Self-Help system, a weekly support group for people suffering from anxiety, panic attacks and symptoms caused by fear and anger. Tuesdays, 1pm, Lake View Community Church, 475 East Lake Rd N., TS. 727-942-4095. Free, offerings appreciated.

PEtS & PEt CAREFlorida Poodle Rescue, Pinellas www.FloridaPoodleRescue.org. Rescued Animals in need of good homes. Suncoast Animal League, 1030 Pennsylvania Ave., Palm Harbor. 727-786-1330 www.suncoastanimaleague.org Doodle Rescues: all kinds, ages and size poodle mixes waiting for new homes. www.DoodleRescue.orgCats for adoption fully vetted/equp’d.

e -ma i [email protected]/ca l l 7842608. - 727-784-2608 Pet Care www.rover.com/sit/lisaslovingpetcare. Call me for $ 20 off coupon code - 302-293-1227Pet Sitting and Odd Jobs Wanted. Super low cost. Aberdeen community only. - 727-223-9598 Home 863-259-0381 Cell

SERviCE PROSACME WINDOW CLEANING 727-457-8848 In business since 1984, family owned & operated Fully insured, professional and detailed cleaning including tracks sills etc. Prompt “neat and tidy” service at very reasonable prices

MARIA’S CLEANING weekly, biweekly & monthly services available. Cleaning and Organizing Services. Call Today for FREE Estimate! 727-259-3649 References Available

GERRYS POOL SERvICE 727-514-9369 weekly pool maintenance,leak detection, green pool cleanups, online invoicing, equipment checkup, serving your area since 1992. free estimates. [email protected]

NICK’S PRESSURE CLEANING From Roof to Driveway and everything in between including Paver Cleaning & Re-sealing. We will beat any reasonable written estimate Guaranteed!!! 727-376-7031/727-919-1591.

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BROKEN GARAGE DOOR? Broken Springs • Rollers • Cables etc. Same day service on all Doors & Openers. Honest, Reliable, 37 year Local Resident. FREE Service Call with Repair. 727-504-4948, 7 Days a Week.

GREAT PANES WINDOW CLEANING - Professional window cleaner with 18 years experience. FREE NO PRESSURE Estimate. My promise: “You owe me nothing until you are 100% satisfied!” Licensed and Insured. Call Tom at 727-777-6030 www.greatpanesfl.com

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real estate today!Hugh A. Lichter, M.A. REALTOR®, Century 21 East Lake Realty

ANNuAl “CrysTAl BAll” Issue

Once a year, we look at the current housing market to see if we can discern any trends. And, what we’ve found is that some noted and very reputable housing economists believe that the next housing boom will be triggered by millennials. And, they back this up with some very convincing data and rationale that’s worth examining.

Like older demographic groups, the lumped-together cohort of 20- and 30-somethings is interested in getting married, starting families, buying homes, and living the “aspirational life”. The problem is that they are delaying all this, in part, to build careers.

In a recent Barron’s interview with veteran housing-market analyst Ivy Zelman, Zelman noted the dire shortage of affordable housing on the market and the reasons why. Her data points out the gap in housing demand among millennials as the primary reason we see a lower number of new housing starts than we have seen in the past. New housing is a “propellant” for both additional housing and affordable housing, as “move up” buyers leave existing and more affordable housing in the process.

She said the coming housing cycle is likely to be longer and flatter than past cycles, primarily because of the elongated “settling down - to marriage - to children - to home” cycle we see in the millennial age grouping.

Numerous studies show that folks under thirty years of age change jobs much more often than prior generations. The average age to marry has risen above 28 years old, with men at 29 in the mix. Research shows that that American women who have three children are likely to bear more of them in their thirties than in their twenties. The Census Bureau just reported a drop-off in teenage pregnancies and a lower rate of birth for women in their twenties. This was offset by sizable growth in pregnancies between 30 and 45.

William Smead, CEO of Smead Capital Management, another expert on housing trends discussed why this lag among millennials could be responsible for the next housing boom. Here’s what he had to say:

“We would argue that many Millennials have removed themselves from their hometown and their college town via their employment and the lateness of marriage. This contributes directly to Ivy’s ‘elongation’. We find it easy to estimate that the current new homebuilding pace of 629,000 units in 2016 will grow to a 1.5 million unit run-rate within five years. This would truly be a boom and could carry the U.S. economy along with it.

“We believe that the current fears of a slower economy are the last gasp of a post-financial meltdown era and are about to be replaced by exiles in the US building homes and having families,” Smead wrote.

“This will produce much higher economic growth, spawn higher interest rates and benefit companies with a direct and/or indirect connection to an America, which will be much different in ten years.”

While 1.5 million new housing units may be a high estimate, the overall trend is hard to ignore.

Remember: If you are even thinking of selling, you owe it to yourself to have a conversation with a real estate professional. We can give you sound advice and good, solid local market info that will greatly assist you. And, if you or someone you know is even thinking of buying, a real estate professional is best able to go over price, payment, location, and value information for this very large decision.

I would be happy to be that real estate professional for you, your friends, and your family!

Hugh A. lichter, mA, Century 21 east lake realty, at 727-421-5010.

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East lakE WOOdlands cOmmunity assOciatiOn - august 201616

5 Ways amerICans unIte to help one another

(BPT) - It seems as though there’s a lot of disagreement in our country these days. Political parties not only argue with each other, but they also fight within their ranks. Turn on the news and bickering is everywhere. Click on any internet story and you’ll read through pages of angry comments.

Despite all the noise, however, Americans truly are more united than divided. And one of the issues that unites all kinds of Americans is supporting our veterans. In fact, it’s part of a long tradition that goes back to the founding fathers, and there are plenty of ways you can reach out and show your appreciation as well.

A tradition of honoring heroism. In 1782, George Washington issued orders to honor soldiers who showed exceptional distinction by awarding them the Badge of Military Merit. Now called the Purple Heart, it’s given to men and women in uniform who have been injured or killed in combat or captivity. As the oldest medal currently in use, over 1.7 million have received the honor.

Ordinary people giving. Millions of Americans have shown their support for veterans by donating their time and financial support to organizations such as the Purple Heart Foundation. This organization supports veterans and their families with many nationwide programs. They rely on ordinary Americans to volunteer and provide financial assistance to continue these important services.

Investing in veterans. After the unemployment rate for veterans peaked at over 15 percent in 2011, Americans responded. Major companies like Walmart, Amazon and Uber have all pledged to hire thousands of veterans. Voters put pressure on their representatives to enact The Returning Hero’s Tax Credit, which gives companies incentives to hire vets. As a result, the unemployment rate among veterans has been halved.

Helping vets tell their story. A highly effective way to help vets reconnect with people and get a hold of the confusing emotions they experience when coming home is to allow them to tell their story. Many organizations, colleges and community groups have set up programs that teach veterans the skills they need to find their voice and tell their story.

Professionals volunteering their time. All wondering how they can help, thousands of professionals such as lawyers, accountants and career coaches have reached out to volunteer their time. Because free legal and financial advice is invaluable to help veterans navigate the world they return to, this kind of assistance is incredibly important.

Inspired by the outpouring of support, many Americans wonder what they can do to help. Veterans organizations like the Purple Heart Foundation provide emotional, physical, educational and financial support for veterans and their families. In addition, the Purple Heart Foundation gives people the opportunity to volunteer, donate their vehicles or household items, or make cash contributions as a way of thanking veterans for the sacrifice they made. To learn more, visit purpleheartfoundation.org.

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6 home ImproVement trends to update your stale spaCe

(BPT) - When you’re in the process of buying or building a home, you’re constantly researching trends and technology that will set your home apart. Fast forward a few years and you probably don’t have your finger on the pulse of home advancements like before.

It’s good you’ve settled in to your home, but a lot can change in just a handful of years. If you’re finally thinking about finishing the basement, updating the kitchen or investing in landscaping, there’s probably a lot of new processes and products available since you’ve last been in the market.

Get up to speed by learning about the top home improvement trends that are getting lots of attention in 2016:

Air qualityH o m e o w n e r s

are taking action to improve indoor air quality by choosing smart products like AirRenew drywall boards that clean the air. Ideal when remodeling or finishing basements and bathrooms, these boards feature the industry’s first formaldehyde-absorbing technology. That means they actively remove volatile organic compounds (VOCs) from the air, converting them into a safe compound that improves indoor air quality. VOCs are prevalent in bathroom spaces due to personal hygiene products like hair spray and the use of cleaning chemicals. Plus, the M2Tech technology in AirRenew is moisture and mold resistant, which is excellent for bathroom and basement spaces where these conditions often thrive.

Acid stained concreteHomeowners are looking beyond concrete’s core strength and

durability to discover its beauty when treated with acid staining techniques. Specialty stains are used to add stunning depth and color that closely mimics stone, including marble. Perfect for basements and patio spaces, concrete experts pour the slab and then after it has cured, return to apply the stain treatment. The result is completely customizable and often closely resembles upscale applications at a fraction of the cost.

Durable drywallAs technology continues to advance at a rapid pace, homeowners

need the option of mounting and remounting the newest televisions, speaker systems and other home electronics. By thoughtfully selecting drywall, you can say goodbye to anchors and stud finders for good. Habito drywall allows builders and homeowners to create spaces

that provide easy mounting of fixtures up to 30 pounds. Visit HanginWithHabito.com to learn how you can hang a TV or piece of art without anchors and feel confident it’s secured to the wall.

mDf cabinetsMedium density fiberboard

(MDF) is a high-grade, composite material that is used to create cabinetry for kitchens, bars and bathrooms. Made from wood fibers and resin, MDF is dried and pressed to create an incredibly durable material. Homeowners are choosing MDF cabinets because they do not expand and contract like solid wood, which means it better withstands seasonal changes in temperature and humidity.

Acoustics Today’s approach to home design goes beyond appearances to look at

how the spaces affect every one of the senses. Homeowners in particular are paying close attention to the acoustics of a home. Knowing how sounds can be manipulated and controlled within a house is important for functionality and livability. A professional can assist in the details of acoustics design, but basic features that best control sound are insulation, ceiling material and flooring design.

smart spacesHigh tech knows no bounds because more homes are incorporating

smart spaces into each room. These are special areas where you can store and charge devices so that they are always operable. For example, a drawer in the kitchen will have built-in USB chargers. The cabinet in your master bath will hold and charge your tablet. The living room built-in will feature a smartphone dock. Personal technology continues to grow and today’s home is growing with it.

To learn more about today’s most innovative drywall options, visit CertainTeed.com/CleanTheAir and HanginWithHabito.com.

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drIVe aWay dIstraCtIons to proteCt teens BehInd the Wheel

(BPT) - Today’s teens face more distractions than any generation before.

Many don’t recall a time when they were not continuously connected to their friends. Cell phones - which might have been provided as a safety precaution in case Mom or Dad was running late picking them up from school - are now the source of constant messaging, sharing and media consumption.

Teens send texts instead of passing notes in class. They share moments with their peers and the world in the form of photos and short videos. Music, food and transportation can arrive on demand, all with the swipe of a finger. Being away from their phones, even for a short period of time, can even cause a form of separation anxiety expressed in the acronym FOMO (fear of missing out).

So it should come as no surprise that cell phone use is the offense most commonly associated with distracted driving. However, it’s not the only type of distraction.

“A lot of people think they’re better drivers than they actually are, which is why they take unnecessary risks when they’re behind the wheel,” said Randy Petro, chief claims officer

for Mercury Insurance. “We see a lot of claims related to distracted driving, including parents turning to scold arguing children, adjusting the infotainment system, and even taking photos while driving. Your first priority once you start piloting any vehicle should be to focus on the task at hand - driving.”

Ten percent of all drivers ages 15 to 19 who were involved in fatal crashes were distracted at the time of the crashes, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). NHTSA also reports that 660,000 people drive distracted every day.

Teens aren’t the only ones who feel the need to be connected - adults are guilty of it, too.

Many of the teens who are glued to their smartphones have witnessed their parents answering emails at the dinner table or have seen them shoot a “quick text” while driving. Teens have grown up learning that this type of behavior is acceptable and maybe even expected. However, there’s a right time and a right place for everything.

“The first thing parents need to do is practice what they preach. Teenagers won’t always be receptive to ‘because I say so’ or ‘because I’m the adult,’ especially if they witness their parents actively engaging in a behavior they’re being told is bad,” adds Petro. “We as adults need to set a proper example - after all, we do have the advantage of more life experience.”

Parents should set a powerful example by committing not to drive distracted if they want their children to do the same. If necessary, parents can also invest in technology to monitor and disable phones while their teens are driving to eliminate the temptation altogether.

“No Instagram post, bite of a burger or playlist selection is worth someone else’s life. People are mainly in a car to get from point A to point B, and our wish is for them to do it safely,” says Petro.

There are several excellent online resources that provide tips and information to help prepare teens for life behind the wheel, including Mercury Insurance’s Drive Safe Challenge and NHTSA’s Distraction.gov.

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plan a quICK famIly getaWay to enJoy summer’s fInal days

(BPT) - Before those magical summer days vanish into fall, now is a good time to pack your suitcases, load up the car and escape on a final summer adventure.

The late days of summer offer much to enjoy for a new segment of traveler: the Seekender. They are bold adventurers who take advantage of the weekend to pursue their passions.

Professional surfer Bethany Hamilton knows a few things about the Seekender lifestyle.

“With my family, we seek to live the life we love together, especially on the weekend of busy work-filled weeks,” Bethany says.

Does this sound like you and your family? Get out the map, choose a place you haven’t experienced yet and get ready for a fun weekend. This is how Bethany does it:Put a cap on drive time

Don’t waste the weekend with hours and hours in the car. Bethany tries to avoid ultra-long travel days, so her little one can get a nap in. Find a destination you can reach without hassle within three hours or so, while the kids doze and relax in the back seat. On Saturday, you’ll wake up at your getaway spot, ready to seize the weekend.Think simple

Don’t book every hour of the day with an activity. Back off a bit on the planning, and set your sights on one or two spots you’d like to visit each day. Leave some space for relaxation and spontaneity. Go with the flow and consider letting the kids help make the plans for the day. Involving them in the planning will keep everyone’s mood elevated and allow for a stress-free trip.Be on the lookout for family friendly activities

Along with the usual parks and museums, don’t forget to check for special weekend events in your area. In the final weeks of summer, for example, fair and festival season is in full swing. Set aside some time for the destination’s local festivals or state fairs, where the kids can enjoy

carnival rides, local music and food.Get outdoors

Embrace the outdoors and the warm weather before it cools down in the fall. Did you know that the National Parks Service maintains 397 parks and 2,461 national landmarks? Bethany has added Yellowstone National Park to her travel bucket list and hopes to experience its natural wonders with her family soon. Check out this interactive map to see if you’ve missed any exciting stops in your region. Or if you’re feeling more

adventurous, this is a perfect time of year to visit the mountains. In the summer months, the parks often offer alpine slides and mountain biking trails, which makes an excellent day trip outing under the sun. Pick the right hotel

Choose a hotel that offers a variety of locations so your entire family can have a good night’s sleep wherever you land. For example, with over 2,100 properties globally, Hampton by Hilton is the perfect option for your family weekend getaway.

With a free hot breakfast for every guest and takeaway bags for families on-the-go, you don’t have the hassle of planning breakfast - plus there’s plenty of fresh tea and hazelnut coffee to keep parents caffeinated. Downtime at the hotel is also easy and relaxing, with free Wi-Fi, and, at most locations, an exercise room and a pool.

Pack up the bags and begin planning your next three-day weekend trip with your family. For inspiration, follow Bethany’s Seekender adventures on HamptonSeekender.com and join the conversation on social media at #Seekender.

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