Net worth is not just a function of how much money you make; rather, it comes down to what you keep. The events of the past two years have made Americans as protective as ever of the money they earn. As we approach the end of 2009, there are several important last-minute money moves that, if employed, could reduce the amount of money you have to fork over to the IRS come April 15th. Uncovering possible tax benefits from your investments and savings likely will involve some straightforward steps and perhaps some more difficult maneuvers. Start by reviewing capital gains and losses from investment... Read more
When Rais Javed Mirza arrived in America from his native Pakistan in 1987, he was subjected to a severe case of culture shock. But his condition wasn’t the result of comparing his newly adopted home to his homeland. Rather, his affliction was based in the high expectations he held for his American life and the reality he saw. “When I found out that kids in America had no shoes to wear, no jackets to wear, I had tears in my eyes. I could not understand how this could be,” he recalled. Since that time, Mirza has worked hard to assist those who struggle to live in the richest nation... Read more
A first-of-its-kind discovery means new hope for patients facing brain cancer. Researchers at the University of Central Florida, in partnership with Florida Hospital, have identified a specific gene marker present in brain tumor stem cells that is not present in normal brain stem cells. Now researchers know how tumor cells are different from normal stem cells and may be able to find ways to stop the tumors from developing. “This is significant because it gives us a clue,” said UCF Professor Kiminobu Sugaya, who worked on the research project. “Tumor stem cells are thought to play... Read more
Orlando, Fla. - At Second Harvest Food Bank of Central Florida, the near empty shelves aren’t a sign that fewer people are giving - it’s a sign that more people are hungry. The economic climate has spurred a dramatic increase in the amount of people who need food bank services, so the demand has been greater compared to this time last year. Second Harvest is calling on continued support from businesses and neighbors this holiday season to meet the community’s needs. Every year, the Food Bank relies on more than 7,500 volunteers (whose hours total more than 28,000) to help those... Read more
Come out to the Avalon Park Jubilee Fall Carnival, November 20-22, 2009! This year the carnival will be held at Tanja King Memorial Park in Downtown Avalon Park. Bring the whole family to check out the food, games, prizes, music and more at this year’s Jubilee. Looking for more information? Visit http://www.avalonpark.com. The carnival will run, rain or shine. To submit your community event for review and posting, please e-mail news@insighteastorlando.com. Note: not all submissions will be posted. Content and posting is decided upon by the editor on a case by case basis. For more information,... Read more
