House Talk with Silvia Dukes

Because of our drought conditions in Hernando County, we've been under watering restrictions for a while.  Additionally, there is currently a ban on fireworks in place despite seeing many fireworks vendors pitching their tents around the County.  But, just as Independence Day approaches, we are finally getting some long awaited rain in Hernando County.  So hopefully, in the next couple of days we will find out from County government whether the fireworks ban can be lifted and we can all enjoy some nice displays on July 4th.  Meanwhile, here are some important points regarding fireworks safety:

• always make sure children using fireworks are supervised by an adult
• never give fireworks to small children
• buy fireworks only from reputable vendors
• never attempt to make your own fireworks
• always read and follow the directions on the label
• be sure to have water nearby in case of emergency
• light only one fireworks item at a time
• never attempt to re-ignite a piece of malfunctioning fireworks
• store fireworks in a cool, dry place
• dispose of fireworks properly
• never throw fireworks at or in the direction of another person
• never shoot fireworks in metal or glass containers

Have a happy and safe Fourth of July!

For information on homes and land for sale in Hernando County, including Spring Hill, Hernando Beach, Brooksville, and Weeki Wachee, please visit my website at http://www.SilviaDukes.com

The State of Florida finally is banning developers from burying gopher tortoises alive - yes, you are reading this right, developers could obtain a permit to legally bury live animals during construction under concrete rather than relocating them during the construction process. 

This practice has caused the death of an estimated 70,000 to 80,000 gopher tortoises over the last 16 years the permitting system was in place.  The most disturbing thing about this practice is that these animals don't just die once buried, after all, they do spend a big part of their lives underground.  What actually happens is that the tortoises tunnels and escape routes are being crushed and compacted during construction, they won't be able to dig themselves out, and thus will suffocate or die of starvation.  As if that was not enough, the slow metabolism of these animals cause them to die a very slow death!

Did I mention how horrified I was when I first learned of this? The happier I am that this practice will soon no longer be permitted - and not soon enough!  This new policy will not take effect until July 30, unfortunately, any permits granted before then will be grandfathered in so the slaughter of helpless creatures in the name of growth is not stopped completely.

Ask any Floridian what his biggest concerns are and you will hear stories about taxes and insurance. 

Well, the State of Florida, Office of Insurance Regulation, just established a new website where consumers can compare insurance rates.  http://www.flgov.com/shop4insurance or http://www.shopandcomparerates.com

Great!  It's quite a nice looking site that is easy to navigate by County.  However, if one was looking to do some real comparison shopping for insurance one a particular property, this site is limited solely to averages based on a very defined structure that reads as follows:

"A 5-year old, Florida concrete block home, with a current replacement value of $150,000, a $500 non-hurricane
deductible, a 2% hurricane deductible, no claims, and no wind mitigation discounts."

Wow, wonder how many homeowners can identify with this? To be fair, the site contains the following disclaimer:

NOTE: THIS IS BEING PROVIDED FOR COMPARISON PURPOSES ONLY TO DEMONSTRATE THE IMPORTANCE OF SHOPPING FOR INSURANCE QUOTES. Insurance companies listed below may not be writing new business in all counties. Citizens Property Insurance Corporation is writing in all counties.

There are additional limitations, for example, the rates lump together inland and waterfront homes, and make not distinction between homes with or without improvements to better withstand hurricance.  The State is promising to make improvements to the site to account for some of these shortcomings and to make this site a better tool for consumers.

Meanwhile, for what it's worth,  it's nice to see that there are still a number of insurers in the various Counties and hopefully it will encourage people to shop around for rates not just at one  but several insurance agencies.

Silvia Dukes, P.A.

www.SilviaDukes.com

A group for the Rotarians among Active Rainers and those who want to learn more about Rotary International and its many activities.  Share with us what your club does in your community, what does the philosophy of Rotary mean to you, how has it helped you in your business and private life? 

Earlier this year I was inducted into the Rotary Club of Spring Hill, Florida and with that I am a member of Rotary International!  I am so impressed with this organization! On the local level, this club provides a networking opportunity that is rooted in true fellowship and service to our community, on an international level, the organization is engaged in many noteworthy causes around the globe from polio eradication to providing disaster relief.

Why did I decide to join?  When I attended one of the meetings as an invited guest, I immediately noticed the camaraderie and positive attitude among the members of our club.  Then came the "Four-Way Test of the things we think, say or do":

First: Is it the Truth?

Second: Is it Fair to all concerned?

Third: Will it build Good Will and Better Friendships?

Fourth: Will it be Beneficial to all concerned?

The four-way test really hit home with me. Doesn't it exemplify all the ethical and moral high standards that we as humans and professionals should demonstrate every day in business and our lives?  And isn't it an easy format to follow?  Would we need any other ethical - and often wordy - manifestos (just look at the pages of our NAR Ethics) if everyone would just ask themselves these questions before making a difficult decision? 

Oh, did I mention I am proud to be a member of Rotary International?

Although not designated as a holiday, June 14th is National Flag Day commemorating the adoption of the flag of the United States by the Second Continental Congress in 1777.  While President Woodrow Wilson established Flag Day in 1916 by proclamation, President Harry Truman in 1949 signed National Flag Day, June 14th of every year, into law. 

My favorite memory of a National Flag Day celebration dates all the way back to the mid 1980's when I lived in Eastern Massachusetts, an area that is so full of our Nations history. My husband and I attended a community Flag Day celebration complete with cook out and  fire works at the end of the day.   

Whether you call it "Stars and Stripes" or "Old Glory" - fly our flag proudly!

Free Photos and Clipart:  http://www.ace-clipart.com

There are several interesting websites with information about our flag and Flag Day:

• http://www.usflag.org/
• Library of Congress: http://memory.loc.gov/ammem/today/jun14.html
• National Flag Day Foundation:  http://www.nationalflagday.com/default.asp
• http://stockholm.usembassy.gov/Holidays/celebrate/flagday.html

One of Hernando County's waterfront parks - and the County's only gulf front beach - is the Alfred McKethan Park located on Pine Island with three acres of white beach sand, picnic pavilions, BBQ grills, children play ground, facilities and outdoor concession.

Swimming, bathing, fishing, bird-watching --- there is something to do for the entire family. In the evenings, a small crowd gathers to watch the gorgeous sunsets over the Gulf of Mexico.

Pine Island was appropriately named because of its beautiful stand of tall longleaf pines. Pine Island is connected to the mainland by a highway first built in 1925 leading through the saw grass. During World War II a radar station was built on Pine Island and the pines were destroyed in the process. After the war, parts of the property were given to the State and the County to build a park for the enjoyment of residents and visitors alike. Other parts were parceled out and over time developed into a small residential community with some nice beach front properties.

 The park is operated by Hernando County and during the summer months from April through October is open from 8:00 AM to 9:30 PM, from November through March, the park closes at 7:00 PM. There is a nominal parking fee per vehicle but after 5:00 PM this fee is suspended.

Pine Island is located at 10840 Pine Island Drive off County Road 495 west of Weeki Wachee.

See you soon!

Interested in waterfront property?  Contact me by phone or email or visit my website at http://www.SilviaDukes.com.  Thanks!

 For more information about our area and available real estate, please contact me.

Real Estate Professional with international experience working with customers from the US and abroad. When knowledge of the marketplace, experience, effectiveness, integrity, honesty, skill, and professionalism is important to you, then please contact me!

Ich spreche Deutsch - I speak German!

Specialties

Residential Real Estate, Homes and Land, Relocation, Waterfront and Golfing Communities

Located directly on the shores of the Gulf of Mexico, the Hernando Beach Club offers great views over the Gulf and stunning sunsets!  This club is yet another example of the lively social scene of our community.  Members meet Fridays for dinner often with entertainment.  Many other activities and special events take place on the grounds of the club throughout the year, bring a lawn chair and enjoy the great outdoors with the amenities of a club offering full bar and lounge.  Visit the Hernando Beach Club website at http://www.hernandobeachclub.com/ for more information. 

Just before sundown...

Thinking of buying or selling real estate in Hernando Beach, Florida?  Remember, having a knowledgeable local REALTOR working for you is a real asset.  Visit my website at http://www.silviadukes.com/ to learn more about me and my services.  I'd love to hear from you!

The Hernando Beach Yacht Club offers many social activities and events throughout the year.  Membership is not limited to Hernando Beach residents and owning a boat is not a requirement.  Club members meet every Wednesday for dinner in the clubhouse located on Shoal Line Blvd.  

The annual highlight is the grand gala event of "Commodore's Ball" that takes place every January.  The many events throughout the year include the blessing of the fleet, dances, special occasion brunches, golf and boat outings, and ends with a fantastic New Years Eve bash.  An annual cruise is a cherished tradition!  The many events are announced in local publications for the public to attend.  Or visit the Hernando Beach Yacht Club website at http://www.hbyachtclub.com/ for photos and more information! 

Hope to see you there!

Thinking of buying or selling real estate in Hernando Beach, Florida?  Remember, having a knowledgeable local REALTOR working for you is a real asset.  Visit my website at www.SilviaDukes.com to learn more about me and my services.  I'd love to hear from you!

  Boats anchored behind the Hernando

  Beach Yacht Club building.