COVER STORY

GeorgeFest Royal

Couple- - - - - - - - - - - - -

INSIDE FEB. 2015Wade Winker

- - - - - - - - - - - - - Hand in Hand Ministries

Photo Credit - 1000 Words Gallery | www.bestversionmedia.com

Serving The Lake Eustis Area Chamber of Commerce - February 2015

TheConnectionYour chamber of choice.

2 [ TheConnection

ACTIVE

G4806974 830 E. Lemon Ave., Eustis 1154 sq. ft. 3/1 $73,500

G4806998 2123 Appalachee Cir., Tavares 2875 sq .ft. 3/2.5 $180,200

G4806781 41401 Thomas Boat Landing Rd., Umatilla 2074 sq. ft. 3/3 $385,000

G4806516 1020 Juliette Blvd., Mt. Dora 4700 sq. ft. 4/4.5 $1,150,000

PENDING

G4806375 1554 Nassau Cir., Tavares 1248 sq. ft. 2/2 $69,900 *DOM 6

G4806397 205 S. Lakeshore Blvd., Howey-in-the-Hills 1972 sq. ft. 3/2 $212,800 *DOM 11

G4805199 1425 Osprey Ridge Dr., Eustis 2237 sq. ft. 4/2.5 $278,999 *DOM 33

G4806226 29836 State Road 46, Sorrento 4300 sq. ft. 4/3/2 $779,900 *DOM 20

SOLD

G4806349 1877 Country Club Blvd., Mt. Dora 1252 sq. ft. 2/2 $136,000 *DOM 1

G4804551 5849 Bounty Cir., Tavares 2235 sq. ft. 3/2 $215,000 *DOM 13

G4806147 1801 Lakeshore Dr., Mount Dora 2350 sq. ft. 3/2 $363,000 *DOM 9

G4806991 - 16061 Acorn Cir., Tavares 3100 sq. ft. 4/4 $458,000 *DOM 0

*DOM - Days On Market **MH - Manufactured Home

Tyre & Taylor Realty, Inc.

Sue HooperGRI, ASP, ACSABroker-Associate

I want to be your new home specialist! Builders now have homes that are move-in ready or you can build your dream home on your lot or theirs!

I offer my customers a unique service...• 32 years real estate experience• 19 years interior design experience

My wish is to make your new house your home!Call my cell at 352-636-5221

[ SPONSORED BY: COLDWELL BANKER ] Sue Hooper, Realtor

REAL ESTATE UPDATE

Information is supplied by seller and other third parties and has not been verified. Homes listed on this page are not necessarily listed by the agent sponsoring this section.

February 2015 ] 3

Making plans for your family and friends? Be sure to put the 113th GeorgeFest Celebration on your calendar, February 27 - March 1 in Ferran Park and Historic Downtown Eustis.

Sponsored by the Lake Eustis Area Chamber of Commerce and their proud partner, the City of Eustis, the festival is an important piece of living, local history. GeorgeFest is the longest running festival celebrating Washington’s birthday in the state of Florida and is second only to Laredo, TX, for the longest running festival in the nation honoring our first President!

We are very excited about our theme this year, “From Sea to Shining Sea,” and we hope that all of you will join us in the celebration.

The three days of family fun activities, carnival rides, live entertainment, along with a parade and fireworks are sure to be the highlight of the month! Arts and Crafts, Products and Services and Food, Food and more Food will be featured in our vendor booths throughout the park. There will be something for everyone and fun for all!

This year’s parade will feature more 80 entries and includes the Wells Fargo Stagecoach, the marching band from Eustis and our King and Queen. Live entertainment will fill the downtown and Ferran park areas throughout the weekend.

This year we are excited to have at least eight different bands performing on two different stages, offering a large variety of music from country to modern to rock to originals with music sure to please everyone.

We invite everyone to get involved, participate and make some lasting memories.

Admission to the festival is free. Contact the Chamber for more information or send an email to communications@eustischamber.org and request a brochure of events.

EXECUTIVE COMMITTEEJerry Cobb - PresidentCobb’s Triangle Tractor

Robin Austin - President ElectTD Bank

Karen Sartele - TreasurerRe/Max Premier

Jodie McEwen - Past President Hillcrest Insurance Agency, Inc.

BOARD OF DIRECTORSStephanie Carder - The Village Framer

Emanuele Fano - Fano Insurance ServicesBill Gay - Straight Line Communications, Inc.

Jordan Hawkins - United Southern BankRachel Holtzclaw - Rachel Holtzclaw, CPA, P.A.

Kathy Judkins - Sumter Electric Cooperative (SECO)Joanne Keller - Joanne M. Keller, ARNP

Tom Miranda - Conger Miranda Financial Consulting GroupJessica Quinones

Fernando Ramirez - Florida Hospital WatermanCraig Regan - Bronson Ace Hardware

Mary Rhodes - The Mortgage Firm, Inc.Kevin Robson - BusinessMasters.Net

Jeff Stephan - Stephan Financial ServicesJudy Stewart - The Law Office of Judy A. Stewart, P.A.

Jeanne Sutton - Tyre and Taylor Realty

YOUR CHAMBER STAFFChristie Bobbitt - Executive Director

Katie Brett - Communications and Events DirectorBonnie Mayo - Special Events Staff

Chelsea Emery - Receptionist

YOUR CHAMBER AMBASSADORSColleen Campagnari - Pro Auto Care

Nicki Coyle - IndividualEmanuele Fano - Fano Insurance Services

Ellen Jordan - Tupperware ContractorKellie Keith- Home Companions Senior Care

Jessica QuinonesMary Rhodes - The Mortgage Firm, Inc

Gary and Jennifer Slater - Best Version MediaJeannie Sutton - Tyre and Taylor Realty

Sue Hooper- Inspired DesignsBarb Yaussy -CenterState Bank

Laurie MacKillip – Star Security

CHAMBER TRUSTEE PARTNERS

What is a Trustee Partner: This innovative membership category has evolved with the growth of the Chamber and is designed to meet the Chamber’s short and longer term financial needs by supporting current operations, while building resources for the future.

This support allows Chamber staff and volunteers to focus their efforts on a broader range of programs that make a real difference to our members and the community.

2014 Trustee Partners

For more information on the Community Trustee Partner program contact us at exedir@eustischamber.org or call (352) 357-3434.

DEAR MEMBERS,

Any content, member submissions, guest columns, advertisements and advertorials are not necessarily endorsed by or represent the views of Best Version Media (BVM) or any municipality, homeowners associations, businesses or organizations that this publication serves. BVM is not responsible for the reliability, suitability or timeliness of any content submitted. All content submitted is done so at the sole discretion of the submitting party. © 2015 Best Version Media. All rights reserved.

Christie BobbittExecutive Director

Your chamber of choice.

4 [ TheConnection

The Agents at Hillcrest take their responsibility to provide protection to their clients very seriously. In addition to Insurance Products there are a number of other methods of managing the Risks for which individuals and businesses are exposed. Proper planning is one of the most important and effective risk management techniques. With complete insurance for individuals

CHAMBER BREAKFAST GUEST SPEAKER

Jodie McEwen Hillcrest Insurance Agency Inc.February Breakfast Sponsored by Hillcrest Insurance

Publication Team:Publishers:

Jennifer and Gary SlaterEditor: Mike Ratrie

Content Coordinator: Cathy (Bernish) Jone

Photographer: 1000 Words Gallery

Designer: Rachel ZaborowskiChamber Communications:

Katie Brett

Expert ContributorsA special Thank You to our

Expert Contributors. Several of our contributors have stepped up to the expert status in their

prospective field. Please look for the E+ sticker.

Pastor Alan Holden - Midway Baptist Church

Kathy Thomas - Acupuncture Betty Ainslie - Skin Care

Dr. Tracie Wilson - VeterinarianKaren Carroll - Aflac

Jennifer Slater - PhotographyJodie McEwen - InsuranceDr. Wade Winker - Dentist

Eric Blamick - Financial Advisor Maranatha Tax - Tax ServicesCountry Club of Mount DoraFlorida Hospital Waterman

Advertise in The ConnectionGary Slater {352-409-4020}

GSlater@bestversionmedia.comJennifer Slater {352-409-2686} JSlater@bestversionmedia.com

Feedback/Ideas/Submissions: Have feedback, ideas, or submissions?

We are always happy to hear from you! Deadlines for submissions are

the 25th of each month. Go to www.bestversionmedia.com and click

“Submit Content.” You may also email your thoughts,

ideas, and photos to: cjones@bestversionmedia.com.

Your chamber of choice.

[ COMMUNITY ] Submitted by Eustis Chamber

Jennifer and Gary Slater - Your publishers

and businesses in Florida, Hillcrest is there for you any time you need them.

Choice. Flexibility. Economy. Superior Protection. For your car, home, and business. Hillcrest Insurance Agency has it all for you in one place – with offices in Mount Dora and Winter Garden they serve the insurance needs of individuals, families, healthcare, and businesses all over Florida. As an independent insurance agent, they represent many top rated insurance companies. They are here for you locally, 24/7 via their website or by calling (352) 383-8164.

Getting the right insurance protection, superior claim service when you need it, ultimate

convenience, and the right price can seem like a tall order. But Hillcrest Insurance Agency makes it seem easy.

A periodic review of your insurance program helps you save money and keep your protection up-to-date with your changing needs. Hillcrest Insurance provides a wealth of online resources to help you with that. Just visit their website at www.hillcrestinsurance.com.

December’s “We Noticed” Award was presented to United Southern Bank on December 19th in recognition of their constant support of community events.

WE NOTICED

CHAMBER BREAKFASTBreakfast is at First Baptist Church of Eustis. 3551 East Orange Avenue, Eustis FL. To RSVP Call - 352-357-3434 or email communications@eustischamber.org

February 2015 ] 5

New Members:1884 Restaurant and BarSuma Wellness Center

Renewing Members:B. Grassel

Ellen Jordan/TupperwareFord Press

Mary ZiegengeistPrime Plumbing, Inc

RE/MAX Realty Center International

Your chamber of choice.

Tom Popieski was a gracious host of 12th Annual Seacoast Holiday Open House on December 11th.

On December 2nd we celebrated the remodel and ribbon cutting of the Oyster Troff.

Chamber members enjoy the monthly breakfast on December 11th sponsored by Epiphany Celebration Anglican Church.

It was a great night, filled with prizes, fun and friendship at the Chamber Holiday Open House on December 4th.

2015 marks the Inaugural GeorgeFest 5k Run/Walk. The event will take place on Saturday, February 21st. The run will begin in Ferran Park at 8 a.m. You can register to ‘Run With the Georges” up to race day. The event is made possible through a partnership with Greater Events. Greater Event’s expertise lies in organizing and facilitating 5k races throughout Central Florida.

The proceeds from The Running With The Georges will be used to fund two grants. Each grant will be for up to $1,000. One grant will go to one of our local schools to fund a project and one grant will go to non-profit (501 3C), Lake Eustis Area Chamber of Commerce Member for a project to benefit the Eustis area. Grant opportunities were sent to all organizations who met the criteria and a selection committee chose the winners based on the merits of the projects presented.

All race day events are open to the public. Immediately following the race, please join us for the Eustis African-American Heritage Celebration. The Parade starts at 10 a.m. and the festival will begin afterwards at the Eustis High School Curtwright Campus. 1801 Bates Avenue, Eustis.

REGISTER NOW! www.georgefest5k.com

- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

Grant Winners2015 School Winner Eustis Middle School

2015 Non- Profit Winners - Tied

Lifestream’s The Open Door and

Lake County Humane Society

[ GEORGEFEST ] Submitted by Lake Area Eustis Chamber

6 [ TheConnection

[ BUSINESS FEATURE ] Submitted by Florida Waterman Hospital

At 62 years old, David Chapman, of Grand Island, was stopped in his tracks when he began to experience chest pain severe enough to call 911. Lake Emergency Medical Services (EMS) was at his home within minutes, and confirmed that he was indeed having a heart attack.

“When I arrived at the emergency room at Florida Hospital Waterman, they were ready for me,” David says. “I knew it was important to get help for a heart attack as quickly as possible, but I was blown away at how fast everyone jumped into action.”

REDUCING HEART DAMAGE

“Thanks to new advances in technology and collaboration between Florida Hospital Waterman and Lake EMS, we can now initiate diagnosis and preliminary treatment of heart attacks before a patient even arrives at the hospital,” says Siva Bhashyam, MD, interventional cardiologist at Florida Hospital Waterman. “This saves critical time once the patient arrives at the hospital, and can help

reduce damage caused to the heart muscle.”According to both the American Heart Association and

the American College of Cardiology, patients who reach the cardiac catheterization lab within 90 minutes of having a heart attack experience significantly lower mortality rates.

“Once a patient arrives at the hospital, and is diagnosed, our goal is to get him or her to the catheterization (cath) lab

for angioplasty or stent placement to help restore blood flow to the heart as quickly as possible,” Dr. Bhashyam says.

“Every hospital tracks the time it takes to get patients to the cath lab for treatment. We refer to it as the door-to-balloon time, and we continually look for ways to reduce that time.”

HOW THE PROCESS WORKS

“When we receive a chest pain call via 911, the patient is triaged and an ambulance is dispatched with priority criteria and lights and sirens,” says John Simpson, chief operating officer with Lake EMS. “An advanced life support work-up

THE BIG CATCH Partnership between Florida Hospital Waterman and EMS

helps improve heart attack treatment times

February 2015 ] 7

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is completed with a 12-lead electrocardiogram (EKG), and if the paramedic believes that the patient is having a heart attack, we have the ability to transmit the EKG directly to the hospital from the field.” Transmitting the EKG directly from the ambulance to the emergency room not only allows the EMS and hospital teams to start working together to assess the patient, it also allows the hospital and cardiac cath lab to start preparing for the patient’s arrival. “The key is recognizing the signs and symptoms and notifying the emergency room,” Simpson says.

“The partnership between Florida Hospital Waterman and Lake EMS to implement the field EKG program is resulting in improved door-to-balloon times and better patient outcomes,” says Pamela Jones, senior clinical data analyst for cardiology. “Now, 98 percent of our heart attack patients receive treatment within 90 minutes, the best in Lake County.”

By recognizing the signs of a heart attack, and seeking care as quickly as possible, David is back to doing the things he loves like fishing and yard work. “My father had a heart attack at 62, and my grandfather died of a heart attack at 67,” he says. “Because of my family history, I knew I was at an increased risk, so I learned the signs and knew what to do. Thankfully the teams at Lake EMS and Florida Hospital Waterman were also prepared.”

This February, in recognition of American Heart Month, Florida Hospital Waterman is hosting a number of events and educational seminars to help promote improved heart health in our community. Join us on Tuesday, Feb. 10, from 9am to 12pm, for “Love Your Heart Heath Expo.” Free health risk assessments will be available. Registration and fasting is required. Call 352-253-3635 to register or for more information. Visit FHWatermanHeart.com for a complete listing of events and programs.

8 [ TheConnection

work skills and to help support the Powerhouse program. In Phase II, clients move into transitional housing and begin working at regular jobs while living in a safe community. Clients are taught to balance work, recovery while living for the Lord

They encourage the community to become an advocate by helping spread the word about Hand in Hand and how it’s impacting our community. You can use social media to share posts and updates, arrange for a Hand in Hand representative to speak to your church or organization, set up a Corporate Giving campaign through your company or business and post/distribute information about Hand in Hand Events in your company newsletter or place of business.

Hand in Hand also host community outreach events and collaborate with other agencies to meet the needs of the community. Hand in Hand is a non-profit organization committed to helping the homeless of Northern Lake County and individuals and families in need. For more info, contact Dave Douglas at 352-516-7150.

Hand in Hand believes that changing the world begins in your own backyard. Together we CAN make a difference!

Hand in Hand Ministries began through the Cross of Mount Dora a non-denominational church. Through their community outreach program, several of the congregation members ventured out and spent time with the homeless in the area. Through conversations with these individuals they were able to surmise that many of them were casualties of addiction.

Hand in Hand Ministries believes in changing the world one person; one family at a time –beginning in our own backyard. Based in Lake County, Florida they are a nonprofit organization committed to preventing homelessness, repairing families and helping those in need. The organization walks hand in hand with individuals struggling with life events. From financial assistance, temporary shelter & money management courses to employment & educational assistance by identifying the source of hardship and creating a road map for improvement.

Hand in Hand recently opened a home for men suffering from addiction and homelessness respectively named The Powerhouse Recovery Community. Fifty percent of the homeless population suffers from substance abuse. Addressing and overcoming these issues is essential in transitioning people from homelessness back to independent, productive members of society once again.

The Powerhouse is a one-year, Christian faith-based, peer-driven, recovery program incorporating the 12 Steps and their biblical comparisons (using Celebrate Recovery core curriculum that helps clients overcome their hurts, habits, and hang-ups). Participation is voluntary and free to all men who want to change their lives.

There are two phases in the Powerhouse program. During Phase I, clients participate in an intensive regimen where personal accountability and community is key. Phase I clients will work in at least one of our social enterprises which are designed to develop

[ CHARITY SPOTLIGHT ] Sponsored by Lake Eustis Area Chamber of Commerce

HAND IN HAND MINISTRIES

February 2015 ] 9

10 [ TheConnection

[ MEMBER OF THE MONTH ] by Cathy Jones

GEORGEFEST ROYALTY

www.vorrh.org

V.O.R.R.H

Cell: (352) 702-8245

Cell: (352) 552-3899

Lloyd ThorneExecutive Director

Helen ShautAssistant Executive Director

The Veterans Organizationof Resource and Recovery

for the Homeless

Facebook vorrh

P.O. Box 1754, Eustis, FL 32726

Email: thorne.lloyd@yahoo.com

Email: helenshaut@yahoo.com

Tom and Dolores Russ are the 2014 Orange King and Queen. Their year of royalty began during the Georgefest celebration of 2014. Although they will be handing their crowns over to the next Royal couple later this month, they will always honor the life of Eustis Royalty.

Tom was born in Michigan and visited the Eustis area in 1940 when he visited his grandfather whose home was located where the parking lot for the Eustis Post Office is currently. He returned often after the War and created deep roots in the area. Tom served as an officer in the Adjutant General Corps of the Army. He later entered into the financial industry in Birmingham. Then he moved to Virginia and established private schools in Norfolk and founded a junior college in Chesapeake, which was later sold to the State of Virginia where the school continues today as a community college.

Tom oversaw the construction of All Saints Episcopal Church in Virginia Beach and served on the commission that built the Chesapeake General Hospital. He has been active in many civic endeavors throughout his life that are too numerous to list.

In 1991, Tom moved to the Eustis area and immediately

joined the Eustis Chamber where he discovered a college classmate, Tim Scobie who was the executive director at that time. He continues to be involved in the Chamber, the Tavares Historical Society and Tavares First United Methodist Church. When he is not working actively with service and civic organizations he prefers to spend his time collecting Lionel Trains.

Delores Russ was born in Philadelphia with three brothers and three sisters. She recently retired as a real estate broker after years of following in her grandmothers footsteps when women were not welcome in the profession. She held real estate licenses in Pennsylvania, California and Florida. She has served as sales manager at Harbor Hills Country Club, Spruce Creek, Marion Landing and the Pringle Association.

Delores met Tom in 1991. Together they began their company, Homebuyers Resource Realty in Fruitland Park and Mount Dora. Their purpose was to serve the interest of the buyer. They became members of all the local chambers to better assist their clients.

Dolores is actively involved in the Tavares First United Methodist Church as a Stephen Minister and liaison to the

February 2015 ] 11

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various chambers.When she and Tom married they became a family of 42

that includes children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. When not working alongside the church or other civic activities Dolores collects teddy bears.

The winners will be revealed at the GeorgeFest Breakfast

on Thursday, February 12th, The Breakfast will be at The First Baptist Church of Eustis, 3551 East Orange

Avenue, Eustis

Who will be crowned the 2015 GeorgeFest

King and Queen?

Please RSVP - 352-357-3434 or Email communications@eustischamber.org

12 [ TheConnection

[ COMMUNITY ] Submitted by Lake Eustis Area Chamber of Commerce

“FROM SEA TO SHINING SEA!”

February 27 - March 1

In Historic Downtown Eustis and Ferran Park Eustis, FL 32726. The city of Eustis, Florida has

been celebrating the birthday of our nation’s first President, George Washington, for more than 100

years. This puts Eustis on the map, as it has the 2nd longest running GeorgeFest in the nation,

second only to Laredo, Texas

- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

Friday, Feb. 27

5pm - Festival Opens – Food & Carnival in Ferran Park and Historic Downtown Eustis

7pm - FREE Birthday Cupcakes in Historic Downtown Eustis and in Ferran Park

5 – 7pm - Live Entertainment in Historic Downtown Eustis

7 – 10pm - Live Entertainment in the Bandshell

Dark - Fireworks (Rain Date, Sat. Feb. 28) in Ferran Park

Saturday, Feb. 28

10am - Grand Parade All Day - Carnival

1 – 10pm - Live Entertainment (Bandshell and in Historic Downtown Eustis)

1pm - Distribution of Parade Trophies (Bandshell)

2pm - Cornhole Tournament

Sunday, March 1

10am - Patriotic Service (Ferran Park)

Noon – 5pm - Live Entertainment (Bandshell and in Historic Downtown Eustis)

Noon – 5pm - Carnival Continues

2pm - Ice Cream Social- FREE ice cream sundaes while supplies last.

3pm - Button Drawing (Bandshell)

Schedule subject to change | All events-weather permitting

Lake Eustis Area Chamber of Commerce pleased to present GEORGEFEST 2015 – CALENDAR OF EVENTS

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February 2015 ] 13

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Law Office of Judy A. StewartCriminal Law and Family Law

(352) 742-4777

311 E. Main St.Tavares, FL 32778

www.AttorneyJudyStewart.com

ENTERTAINMENT LINE-UPFriday, February 27 Historic Downtown Eustis and Bandshell

5 – 7pm - Bubba Wilson (Downtown Eustis)

7 – 10pm - TBA (Bandshell)

Saturday, February 28 Historic Downtown Eustis and Bandshell

1-2pm - Nightly Blues (Downtown Eustis)

1:30-2:30pm - Liquid Jade (Bandshell)

3-4pm - Swerve (Downtown Eustis)

3:30-4:30pm - Spayed Koolie (Bandshell)

5-7pm - Dillon & West (Downtown Eustis)

5:30-7:30pm - Rainer Berry (Bandshell)

8-10pm - Southern Rocks Finest - Legends (Bandshell)

Sunday, March 1 Historic Downtown and Bandshell

11-12:30pm - TBA (Downtown Eustis)

Noon-12:45pm - Tyler Haney (Bandshell)

1-3pm - TBA (Downtown Eustis)

1-2pm - Saturday Night Gold Band (Bandshell)

2:30-3:30pm - Saturday Night Gold Band (Bandshell)

4-5pm - Saturday Night Gold Band (Bandshell)

14 [ TheConnection

[ CALENDAR OF EVENTS // FEBRUARY ]Sponsored by eSportsPhoto

Monday, February 2, 201512-1pmGeorgeFest Committee MeetingEustis Chamber Office

Tuesday, February 3, 201512-1pmLeads Group Lake Technical Center2001 Kurt Street, Eustis

Friday, February 6, 20157:30-8:30amLeads Group Olivia’s Coffeehouse113 North Bay Street, Eustis

Friday, February 6, 20156-10pmEustis LIVE!Downtown Eustis

Saturday, February 7, 20156-11pmDueling PianosEustis Community Center601 Northshore Drive, EustisTickets on sale at the Chamber Office. Tickets include BBQ dinner. A cash bar will be available.$25.00 per person

Monday, February 9, 201512-1pmGeorgeFest Committee Meeting Eustis Chamber Office

Tuesday, February 10, 201512-1pmLeads GroupLake Technical Center2001 Kurt Street, Eustis

Tuesday, February 10, 20155-8pmFood Truck RallyDowntown Eustis

Thursday, February 12, 20157:30-8:30amGeorgeFest BreakfastFirst Baptist Church of Eustis. 3551 East Orange Avenue, Eustis

Friday, February 13, 20157:30-8:30amLeads GroupOlivia’s Coffeehouse113 North Bay Street, Eustis

Monday, February 16, 2015 12-1pmGeorgeFest Committee Meeting Eustis Chamber Office

Tuesday, February 17, 201512-1pmLeads GroupLake Technical Center2001 Kurt Street, Eustis

Friday, February 20, 20157:30-8:30amLeads GroupOlivia’s Coffeehouse113 North Bay Street, Eustis

Saturday, February 21, 20158am-12pmInaugural Running With The GeorgesFerran Park, EustisRegistration is now open at www.georgefest5k.com. Registration begins the day of the event at 6:30am and the race begins at 8am. Come join this special event that will generate grants of up to $1000 each to support local schools and charities.

Saturday, February 21Parade at 10amAfrican American Heritage FestivalEustis High School Curtwright Campus1801 Bates Avenue, Eustis

Monday, February 23, 201512-1pmGeorgeFest Committee Meeting Eustis Chamber Office

Tuesday, February 24, 201512-1pmLeads GroupLake Technical Center2001 Kurt Street, Eustis

Thursday, February 26, 20155:30-7:30pmGeorgeFest VIP Reception and Business After HoursEustis Historical Museum 536 North Bay Street, Eustis

Friday, February 27, 20157:30-8:30amLeads GroupOlivia’s Coffeehouse113 North Bay Street, Eustis

Friday, February 27, 2015GEORGEFESTEvents and entertainment from 5pm until 10pm. Please see our website for detailed schedule of event. www.eustischamber.org

Saturday, February 28, 2015GEORGEFESTHistoric Downtown Eustis and Ferran Park. Parade is at 10am. Events and entertainment until 10pm. Please see our website for detailed schedule of event. www.eustischamber.org

Sunday, March 1, 2015GEORGEFESTHistoric Downtown Eustis and Ferran ParkEvents and entertainment until 5pm. Please see our website for detailed schedule of event. www.eustischamber.org

February 2015 ] 15

16 [ TheConnection

HILLCRESTI N S U R A N C E A G E N C Y

Mount Dora Office18500 US Hwy 441

Mount Dora, Florida 32757

Phone: (352) 383-8164Toll Free: 800-227-4380

www.HillcrestInsurance.com

As an independent insurance agent, we represent many top rated insurance

companies. We're here for you locally!

Focused on the Protection of Individuals and Businesses

352.735.4059www.ccofmtdora.com

1900 Country Club Blvd., Mount Dora

TheCountryClub of Mount Dora

Golf course is Open to the Public

Serving Lunch 7 days a week – open to all

Banquet facilities available.

Allergies, seasonal or year round, are an ongoing problem for many individuals. Seasonal allergies typically affect people during a particular time of year (usually late winter into early summer, but there

are those who are affected primarily in the fall). They are also referred to as outdoor allergies and are generally triggered by tree, grass, and weed pollen or outdoor mold spores.

Year round allergies (mostly indoor allergies) are commonly brought on by animal dander, dust mites, mold spores or insect allergens. There are also food allergies, which occur as a result of eating a culprit food, and can also create physical and/or emotional symptoms such as body hives, swelling, itching or redness of the skin, depression and/or moodiness.

No matter which type of allergy you suffer from, environmental or food related, acupuncture can provide needed relief. While medications (over-the-counter or prescribed) often come with unwanted side-effects, acupuncture does not. This makes acupuncture an appealing option for people looking for a new way to combat allergies.

According to Chinese medical theory, the symptoms and signs that indicate a Western diagnosis of allergies relate to imbalances in the body. These imbalances may stem from a variety of causes, including stress, poor diet, foods that don’t agree with your body, constitutional weakness, pollutants,

and environmental toxins.Over time, if imbalances remain within the body, they

will affect the functions of the Organ Systems. Some of these Organ Systems are involved in the production of a strong immune system.

The Chinese concept of immunity is similar to the Western concept of the immune system. It functions to protect and defend the body against foreign substances, that if not caught can lead to allergies. When immunity is strong and abundant, we remain healthy. When it becomes deficient, health is compromised and we become vulnerable to foreign invaders such as dust, mold, animal dander, bacteria, viruses and pollen. People who have an immunity deficiency are prone to allergies and frequent colds.

Acupuncture and Chinese medicine support and strengthen the systems of the body that are involved in the building and maintenance of strong immunity. By building up a strong foundation, and facilitating its peak performance, symptoms and signs related to allergies could be greatly reduced or eliminated.

ALLERGIES AND ACUPUNCTURE[ HEALTH ] Submitted by Kathy Thomas

February 2015 ] 17

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2430 S. Bay StreetEustis, FL 32726

352-323-0795

What will an Acupuncturist do? An Acupuncturist will conduct a thorough exam, taking a complete health history. She will then develop a unique treatment plan that will address your specific concerns. The goals of the treatment plan will be to eliminate visible symptoms and signs, while addressing the root cause(s) and underlying imbalances affecting the quality of your immunity.

Acupuncture treatments will likely be combined with herbs, dietary changes, or exercise. These therapies accelerate the healing process in order to balance, build, and support the health and functioning of your body’s systems.

In all, Acupuncture and Chinese medicine are a drug-free, safe, and effective way to not only combat the annoying symptoms, but eliminate hay fever, allergies or the common cold. And remember...it’s so much easier on you to prevent rather than treat active symptoms! So start your allergy treatment plan about a month before you normally begin to experience your “allergy season”.

Kathy E ThomasLake Premier Wellness Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine2430 South Bay Street, Eustis, FL 32726352-323-0795

Karen Carroll352-385-7536

karen-carroll@us.aflac.com

18 [ TheConnection

Karen Sartele, SFR, FSP,ABR, CIPS, TRC, CPDE, CIASREALTOR®

352-223-3799 cellFax: 866-311-2947

karensartele@remax.net

Premier Realty

Each Office is Independently Owned and Operated

1213 W. Miller Street (Hwy 466A), Unit 3The Villages, FL 34731

1050 N. Bay Street ◆ Eustis, FL 32726

352.602.4729Rough Country Dealer

4x4 Parts & Accessories Car Wash & Detail

The origin of St. Valentine’s Day is rooted in a pagan festival called Lupercalia. On February 15 two male youths put on animal skins and slapped people with strips of goat skins. Being slapped with goat strips was supposed to induce fertility and passionate love (erotic love).

In 496 Pope Gelasius declared February 14th as Saint Valentine’s

Day to honor a Christian martyr. There were three Christian martyrs with the name Valentine, all of whom were martyred on February 14th. Which Valentine Gelasius sought to honor is debatable. Most likely, Gelasius honored all three Valentines with this one festival.

One legend tells the story of Valentine, imprisoned by Emperor Claudius. Claudius prohibited marriage for young men, stating that bachelors made better soldiers. Valentine, however, secretly performed marriage ceremonies for soldiers. While in prison,

Valentine fell in love with the daughter of the jailer. Before his execution, Valentine sent her a letter, signed “from your Valentine.”

The Christian observance of St. Valentine’s Day focused not on erotic love, but on agape love (self-sacrificial love). We as Christians celebrate the three saints who were martyred for refusing to renounce their faith in Christ. We also celebrate God’s Valentine to us; His self-sacrificial love to redeem us from sin.

Over the centuries, Valentine’s Day evolved into a day to give our love to a special someone. Over 25% of all greeting cards are sent on Valentine’s Day.

This year, why not make Valentine’s Day a celebration of self-sacrifice, rather than only to invite passionate love. I’m not advocating doing away with expressing your love to your special someone. I’m suggesting giving more of yourself, without expecting anything in return. Give more customer service, more love to God, and more of yourself to our community.

Submitted by Alan Holden (Midway Baptist Church)

HISTORY OF VALENTINE’S DAYWritten By Alan Holden

February 2015 ] 19

If you are like many Americans—you made some New Year’s Resolutions. If you are like most of them—many/all of them are already broken. Many resolutions are related to being healthier. Here is a really easy procedure you can add to your daily dental routine that has

been proven to decrease the number of bacteria in your mouth that create cavities and gum disease.

We humans have about 500 different types of bacteria in our mouths. There are a handful of them that cause cavities and 50-75 that cause gum disease. Many of the rest of them are normal healthy bacteria that contribute to digestion and keeping our mouths working.

The latest research in dental microbiology suggests that making life difficult for the “bad” bacteria and allowing the “good” to flourish will cut down on cavities and gum disease.

Here’s how we do that. Take 4 ounces of hot water from the tap and dissolve baking soda in it until the baking soda settles to the bottom of the cup when stirred. Rinse with the hot liquid for 30 to 60 seconds then spit it out. This will raise the pH of your mouth to about 7.8. Don’t drink or eat for 30 minutes afterwards. The higher pH kills “bad” bacteria and is ideal for “good” bacteria. Repeat just before going to bed at night. The principle is the same as “shocking” your pool with chlorine or bromine to eliminate undesirable molecules. Here’s to your good dental health in 2015!!

SHOCK YOURSELF TO A HEALTHIER MOUTH

Submitted by Dr. Wade Winker, D.D.S. [ HEALTH ]

Wade Winker, DDS, PA

Wink

Smile...

Away

and a

Family and Cosmetic Dentistry • On time appointments • Positive attitude • Clean, modern technology • Caring and highly skilled staff

• Most insurance accepted • Serving Lake County for over 21 years • Convenient parking

You’re a

Special Pricing For New Patients Experienced in challenging dental problems

Single Visit Crowns // Cosmetic Bleaching // Dentures // Snore Guards Veneers // Tooth Colored Fillings // Laser Tooth Shaping

Monday and Wednesday: 7:30 am – 5:00 pm | Tuesday and Thursday: 7:30 am – 2:00 pm15 West Atwater Avenue, Eustis, FL 32726 | wadewinker.com | 352.357.2564

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At Florida Hospital Waterman, our patients’ health and well being is our top priority. We know patients turn to us trusting we will do our best to get them back to their best. We’re committed to providing advanced, safe, compassionate care to each and every patient. And we’re proud to be recognized as Lake County’s safest hospital with the county’s only “A” Hospital Safety Score based on how well we protect patients from accidents, errors, injuries and infections. Visit FHWaterman.com to learn more about our commitment to safety and improving care in our community.

www.hospitalsafetyscore.org

HOSPITALSAFETYSCORESMA

Fall 2014

SAFE CAREStill Lake County’s leader in

Your chamber of choice.

[ February 2015