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November/December, 2008

Your Money . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .page 2

Health & Wellness . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .page 3

Recipes of the Month . . . . . . . . . . .page 4,12

Family Life . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .page 6

Fun & Games . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .page 7

Feature Homes . . . . . . . . . . . . .page 5, 8 & 9

Home & Garden . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .page 10

Travel & Automotive . . . . . . . . . . . . .page 11

Calendar of Events . . . . . . . . . . . . . .page 13

Important Numbers . . . . . . . . . . . . .page 13

Monthly Market Reports . . . . . . . . .page 13

Lifestyles . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .page 14

Out Of Town Properties . . . . . . . . . .page 15

INSIDE THISISSUE

To Have Your Home Featured in the Next IssueCall Michael 239-777-0473

FEATURED PROPERTYoffered by: Michael Burke, P.A., REALTOR®

John R. Wood Realtors26269 South Tamiami TrailBonita Springs, FL 34134

Website owned and maintained by Michael Burke of John R. Wood REALTORS, Bonita Springs, FL 34134

Michael Burke

Grandézza Grande Estates

by Katharine SwamThe third quarter held good

news for Lee County: Thoughpaired with a decrease in price,home sales statistics for Augustand September indicated adramatic increase in the numberof sales from last year. Thisupward trend suggests thatFlorida's real estate market isbeginning to stabilize, startingwith Naples, Fort Myers, and thesurrounding areas.

In September, the FloridaAssociation of Realtors releaseda report comparing August 2008home sales statewide to those ofAugust 2007. Several areasoffered substantial increases inthe number of home sales, led bythe Fort Myers-Cape Coral areaat 32 percent. According to

many experts, the good newsmay indicate that the real estatemarket is beginning to stabilize,beginning with areas such as LeeCounty.

"August and September areusually slow months for the realestate market in our area," saysMichael Burke, a luxury realestate expert specializing in Leeand Collier Counties. "But thisyear, August's sales actuallysurpassed those in January,March, or June - and September'ssales ranked even higher."

According to the Augustreport, the Fort Myers-CapeCoral area enjoyed 684 homesales in August 2008, asignificant increase from only520 sales in August 2007. Condosales in the area also rose

substantially, from 128 to 168.In addition to showing an

increase from last year's data,Burke notes that the number ofhome sales in August 2008 alsobeat out the average for themonth over the last decade. "Ifyou take the number of homesales in August over the past nineyears, you come up with an

average of 649 homes sold. Butin August of this year, there were729 pending sales, 12 percentmore than the month's average."

This upward trend becomeseven more obvious inSeptember's numbers, with thepending sales for Lee Countycoming in at a whopping 200percent increase over September2007. In the combined areas ofNaples, Bonita, and Estero,September's closed salessurpassed September 2007 by 40percent.

At the same time as thenumber of sales have increased,prices have decreased. TheFlorida Association of Realtors'report indicates that medianprices in the Fort Myers-CapeCoral area have fallen 41 percent

over the past year: From$250,800 in August 2007, to$146,900 in August 2008. Year-to-date sales numbers forSeptember 2008 show a similarstory: The median price for thecombined areas of Naples,Bonita, and Estero was$304,495, down 20 percent from$381,000 at the end ofSeptember 2007.

"In June of 2007, I sold ahouse for $575,000. In July of2008, I sold the same model for$525,000," Burke said, notingthat he has observed price dropsin choice communities ofbetween 9 and 12 percent.

Some experts suggest thatcompetitive pricing has triggeredthe rise in sales. In an interview

H.3620 - Beautiful designer decorated 4Bed+Den, 4.5 bath, 3495 under air, 4867total sq. ft. Estate home w/countlessupgrades. Tile on diagonal, tray ceilings,rope lighting, window treatments. Formalliving, dining room & den w/double doorentry w/stunning built-in. Gourmetkitchen, built-in appliances. 42" cabinetsw/crown molding, family roomw/expansive corner sliders opens theroom to the lanai w/tropical woodedviews beyond. Built-in pool/spa & grill,w/separate guest suite entry w/privatebath off the lanai. Offered at $999,000.

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Lee County Leads Upward Trend in Florida Home Sales

Coconut Point PressPresenting Luxurious

Bonita Springs , Estero& Naples Lifestyles

continued on page 5

Estero

Michael BurkeBonita Springs/Estero/Naples Luxury Real Estate Expert

November 2008Your Newspaper

Your Money

(NC)—No matter what the size of your business, insurance should be a key part of your overall business financial plan. Every business has to protect its assets, including vehicles, equipment, inventory, employees and partners. Insurance can protect your business by providing funds to meet financial obligations if certain losses occur, including illness, disability or death of a key staff member, travel emergencies, customer defaults, property damage, theft or litigation.

“Business insurance needs are much more complex than that of insuring your car,” states Paul MacDonald, senior vice president, Aon. “It’s important to look for a package that is personalized to meet the needs of your business.”

Many business people misunderstand their current insurance policies. For instance, if you operate a home-based business, your home-owners policy does not extend to protect your business. It is critical to protect your business with specific commercial property

Small Business Tips Insurance is essential in your financial plan

and casualty insurance.

Another type of insurance every business should have is liability insurance. Litigation is becoming more common in disputes, making liability insurance vital to protect your organization and employees from lawsuits.Commercial property insurance provides coverage for physical items that are owned by the insured such as commercial buildings and inventory.

Commercial casualty insurance is a third party coverage responding to bodily injury, property damage or personal injury.

Commercial general liability covers injury or property damage caused by you to others. It provides coverage for these exposures subject to certain exclusions that limit what is being insured.

Business interruption policies assist businesses facing lost profits and ongoing expenses due to a property loss. Contingent business interruption insurance can protect

you if you face a loss of revenue due to a major customer or supplier suffering an insured property loss.

Auto liability offers coverage for your organization’s legal liability for bodily injury and for damage to the property of others in a car accident.

Directors’ and Officers’ liability insurance (D&O) protects directors and officers against liabilities they may incur in carrying out their corporate duties and functions in managing the affairs of the corporation. A D&O policy provides coverage for defence costs, judgments and settlements, and can include investigatory expenses.

These are only a few of the more commonly recommended insurance products for businesses. You should discuss your specific needs with an insurance professional.

More on small business insurance can be found online at www.aon.com.

It really doesn’t take much to derail a retirement plan. Most of the errors in planning for retirement are those of neglect, omission or panic. If you don’t know exactly where your retirement plan stands, get some advice – a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ (CFP®) professional is a good start – to review your overall retirement options and give you some ideas where to start.

Here are some common mistakes people make:

Failing to start: It is amazing how many people find so many excuses and never

DON’T MAKE THESE RETIREMENT PLANNING MISTAKES

start retirement savings. But no matter how daunting debt or other spending priorities seem, you have to save for retirement on a regular basis, even if it’s only a cursory amount. Over time, those small assets will grow to something considerably larger.

Failing to link planning for your at-work and personal retirement portfolios: One of the critical problems in retirement planning comes from failing to treat the investments you make at work versus the ones you make independently as a unified whole. Working with a financial planner can help you look at every place you’re putting your money and finding out if you’re implementing those assets in the right way.

Failing to evaluate a prospective employer’s retirement options: Benefits can be worth as much as a nice paycheck. It’s possible you might be working for a company that still offers a traditional defined

pension benefit plan. If you think you’re going to get an offer, it’s wise to interview prospective employers on the benefits side of what they’re offering you – particularly the timeframes on when those various benefits kick in. Above all, company matching of any assets you place in your retirement funds is key as well as the vesting period for making those assets your own.

Failing to update your beneficiaries: Non-spouse beneficiaries need to check with a tax expert when they must begin distributions from an inherited investment account. Of course, no matter what the investment, make sure your beneficiaries are always current.

Failing to reinvest your tax refunds: Did you know you could deposit your tax refund directly into your retirement savings account? It works for a health or education savings account as well. While many people use their tax refund

as a bonus to buy a treat or pay off bills, consider filing your taxes a bit early and arrange to e-file a direct deposit to your investment account(s) so you can note that deposit for the affected tax year by next April.

Withdrawing money early from retirement savings account or blowing a rollover: Money taken out of a retirement savings account before the age of eligibility is subject to income taxes and a penalty. When moving assets, most of the time a trustee-to-trustee transfer can be more efficient and with less margin for error.

Failing to contribute the maximum:Not every employee can afford to contribute the maximum allowed by their respective work retirement plans or individual retirement investments, but it should be a goal.

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millimeter perfect.”

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This column is produced by the Financial Planning Association and provided by Al Procaccino, a member of FPA and Certified Financial Planner with Castle Financial www.castlefinancial.com .

THINK?

We want to know what you think of this newspaper. Do you have any ideas or suggestions on what you would like to see in our upcoming editions? If there is something, let us know. Either send us an email or send us a letter and we will try to include your suggestion in one of our future editions.

The Editor, Sunshine Publishing1851 Bowler Drive Pickering,

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E-mail:[email protected]

What do you

your

BuSINESS

Sunshine Publishing produces monthly publications featuring family-value articles on a wide variety of topics. It is independently owned and operated and is not affiliated with any real estate association, board or company. Opinions expressed are those of the writers and not necessarily those ofthe Publisher or advertisers. The Publisher regrets any inaccuracies contained herein, but accepts no liability for damages arising out of errors in advertisements beyond the amount paid for the space actually occupied by the advertisement in which the error occurred, whether such error is due to the negligence of its servants or otherwise and there shall be no liability for non-insertion of any advertisement beyond the amount paid for such advertisement space. Errors must be brought to the newspaper immediately and before any subsequent insertion of the advertisement. The publisher will not be responsible for errors after the first publication of any advertisement. We reserve the right to restrict all ads to their proper classifications and to edit or reject any copy. Printed on Recycled Paper.

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My dog is worried about the economy because Alpo is up to $3.00 a can. That’s almost $21.00 in dog money. -Joe Weinstein

November 2008 Page �Your Newspaper

Health & Wellness(NC)—Small indulgences are worth the money when they reduce unhealthy stress levels by bringing peace of mind or some much-needed downtime.

1. Rent a movie. It’s one of the best, cheapest ways to “escape” for a couple of hours when you need a breather.

2. Hire a cleaner. Get a head start on spring cleaning or tackle a stubborn area of the house that refuses to shape up with a one-off visit, or make it a part of your routine.

3. Call the babysitter. Whatever your reason – dinner with your partner, an afternoon at the art gallery with a friend or a morning

TEN WAyS TO GIvE yOuRSELF A BREAKat the gym by yourself – the babysitter’s rates can be well worth it for a much-needed time out.

4. Buy a healthy lunch. Rather than fall off the heart healthy wagon when you don’t have time to prepare lunch, treat yourself to a healthy restaurant or take-out meal.

5. Consult an accountant. Getting your income tax return prepared by a professional is like taking a vacation from worrying about your taxes.

6. Get a financial planner. Yes, a professional advisor will cost money. But wouldn’t it be nice to stop worrying about whether you’re managing your money wisely?

7. use a personal shopper. If you’re planning to buy some clothes this season, consider using a store that has a personal shopping service. You’ll get coordinated pieces that work for your body type and with key pieces in your existing wardrobe.

8. Hire a dry cleaning/laundry service. Laundry can seem endless, but with a service to pick-up, clean, and deliver your clothes, you’ll be able to take a deep breath and say, “ahhh”.

9. Contract out snow/gardening maintenance. An hour or two a week spent on outdoor maintenance adds up over the course of a year: What would you do with up to four

extra days of spare time?

10. Dining with a personal chef service. From a family chef who plans and cook a weeks’ worth of meals to stash in the freezer, to a franchise where you create meals in advance from a set menu using prepared ingredients – there are options for almost any budget that will save you hours of daily dinner-time headaches.

More stress-busting and time-saving ideas, can be found online at www.homebasics.ca.

(NUI) - For most women, getting on the scale every morning can be an exercise in frustration. They’ve eaten well, they’ve spent hours in the gym and still the needle wobbles in the same spot with little to no fluctuation.

And while age, genetics and metabolism certainly play a part in a women’s ability to lose weight, experts say there may be more involved.

According to statistics, more than 72 million women in North America suffer from bloating, or a general swelling of the abdominal area. Women can feel full and tight around the stomach area and even gain weight due to bloating.

But one company is doing its best to aid women in their weight-loss efforts.

“Bloating can cause a temporary weight gain of five to eight pounds,” says Gina Broccolo, co-founder of Integrity Health Products and developer of a supplement that combats bloating. “It is its own beast, and nothing can kill a woman’s confidence like feeling bloated.”

Women Struggle to Shrink Bloated Bodies

Broccolo started her crusade to help women eliminate bloating because of her own weight-loss frustrations. She tried diet after diet and found success in an internal cleansing and detoxifying program that resulted in a weight loss of more than 75 pounds.

However, even after her significant loss, Broccolo still found herself feeling uncomfortable after heavy meals. Since then, she worked with a medical doctor to formulate Beat the Bloat, an all-natural supplement that addresses all of the major causes of bloating.

Containing a combination of dandelion leaf, green tea, peppermint leaf and asparagus root extract, it relieves the discomfort of bloating, improves digestion, helps to eliminate gas from the intestines, rids excess retained water from the body and increases gastro-intestinal motility.

Besides taking a daily supplement, experts say that women can take other steps to combat that feeling of fullness, such as drinking eight glasses of water a day, which flushes the system of toxins, avoiding alcohol in the evening and exercising, which raises the body’s metabolic rate and flushes the system. Controlling salt intake helps, too.

For more information on Beat the Bloat and other ways to eliminate bloating, visit www.beatthebloat.com.

“To climb steep hills requires slow pace at first.”-Shakespeare, Henry VIII. Act I. Sc. 1

Walk 10 Minutes a Day and Increase Your Fitness Level Old thinking was to work out in a sweat-filled gym for hours a day. No pain, no gain. New studies show that even short bouts of activity can increase your fitness level, especially if you’re new at working out.

Fitness Tip

(NUI) - Sniffles and sneezes, sore throats and coughs - the return to school heralds cold and flu season’s start. Children, b e t w e e n u n c o v e r e d sneezes and u n w a s h e d hands, quickly spread germs to classmates.

When cold season comes, it arrives with a vengeance. But parents can boost their children’s overall health, helping young immune systems fight disease. Here are some tips for parents looking to escape flu season unscathed:

• Keep children active. For many children, cold weather means couch-potato behavior. But from visiting pumpkin patches to ice skating, the fall and winter provide fun activities. Physically active children possess healthier immune systems, which help fight off infection. When it’s too cold to play outside, consider indoor activities, like bowling or dancing.

• Watch your kids’ diets. A healthy diet keeps young immune systems strong. Make sure that children eat healthy meals that include vegetables, fruit, healthy protein and whole grains. A healthy breakfast before school keeps young minds sharp and provides immune-supporting nutrition. If

Keeping Kids Healthy Through Cold Season

children won’t eat breakfast, offer milk or 100 percent fruit juice and a multivitamin.

Even in children who don’t skip meals, multivitamins fill nutritional gaps. Look for multivitamins without artificial preservatives or colors, like L’il Critters Immune C plus Zinc and Echinacea, which support healthy immune function

and taste like regular gummy candies. L’il Critters Omega-3 Gummy Fish contain Omega-3 fatty

acids, which improve concentration and help prevent disease.

• Allow unstructured play. Among school, sports, music lessons and community o r g a n i z a t i o n s , children can feel stressed and tired. While structured activities have their benefits, too much stress leads to poorer immune function.

Make sure children have time for imaginative play, and you will see fewer sniffles through the school year.

For more information, visit www.gummybearvitamins.com.

Page � November 2008Your Newspaper

Recipes Of The Month

Mediterranean Pasta and Pesto

Serves 5 to 6

2 slices diced smoked bacon 1 cup diced onions 2 tablespoons garlic sliced thin 1 tablespoon minced thyme 1 cup chopped canned tomatoes 1 can cannellini beans with liquid 1/3 teaspoon salt 1 pinch of black pepper 1 tablespoon pesto 1 pound wagon-wheel pasta

Heat a 2-quart saucepot over medium heat. Add bacon, and cook for four minutes until crispy. Reduce heat to low, and add garlic and thyme for two minutes. Add onions and tomatoes until translucent and soft. Finally, add beans with liquid, and simmer for 15 minutes. Combine with cooked pasta, and stir in pesto before serving.

Baked Brie with Raisins

Makes 20 servings

1 wheel of Brie cheese (about two pounds), chilled 1/4 cup raisins 1/4 cup port wine 1 egg yolk 1 tablespoon water 2 tablespoons toasted pecans 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed

Bring port wine and raisins to boil in a saucepan, then remove from heat, and set aside to cool. In a small bowl, beat egg yolk with water for egg wash, and set aside.

Divide Brie into two layers and separate. Coarsely chop raisins, mix with toasted pecans and spread evenly on bottom layer of Brie. Cover with top half of Brie. Roll out puff pastry on lightly floured surface until large enough to cover Brie completely. Place filled Brie in center of dough and wrap Brie, sealing overlapping edges with egg wash. Arrange on greased baking sheet, and chill for at least 30 minutes.

To serve, preheat oven to 400 °F. Brush top and sides with egg wash, and bake for 20 to 30 minutes or until golden brown. Let stand a few minutes, and serve with baguette slices or toasted croutons.

More Recipes on Page �2

Turmeric Shrimp 1 pound shrimp, cleaned 2 1/2 cloves garlic, peeled 2/3 teaspoon salt 1 small bay leaf 1/3 tablespoon fresh-squeezed lime juice 2 1/2 cups water 2/3 teaspoon turmeric 3 tablespoons lime juice 1/3 teaspoon red chili powder 3 tablespoons cilantro, chopped

Place garlic cloves in a food processor with the salt and mince. Toss with the shrimp and set aside for 15 minutes. In a saucepan, bring the water to a boil with the bay leaf, 1/3 tablespoons lime juice and the 2/3 teaspoon turmeric.

When the water is boiling, add the shrimp, stirring. Cook just until opaque, about 2 to 3 minutes. Drain.

Immediately spread the shrimp onto a large baking sheet to cool. Mix the additional lime juice, red chili powder and a pinch of turmeric together and pour over the warm shrimp. Toss until well-combined. Add cilantro leaves after the shrimp have cooled.

Lee County Leads Upward Trend in Florida Home Salescontinued from page 1

with CNBC, the economist RichardDekaser recently referred to the real estatemarket in neighboring Naples as "slightlyundervalued." According to the Burke,"Seventy-one percent of all closed salesare under $500,000, with 36 percent under$250,000. As a result, buyers are rightlycoming to the conclusion that now is agreat time to get a good deal."

Additionally, Burke notes, sellers whoprice their homes competitively benefit themost from the increase in sales. "I havenoticed that the sellers who are pricingtheir houses in the lower 20 percent are theones most likely to sell. The sellers whoare staying in the front of the market withprice reductions, rather than chasing themarket down, are the ones with the mostsuccess."

The lower pricing scheme isanticipated to bring even more buyers toLee and Collier Counties, which in turnwill result in more sales. "Nothing attractsbuyers like the promise of a good deal,"Burke says. "Therefore, price will remainthe key to successful selling as the marketcontinues to stabilize."

Pricing a house on the low end of themarket can be a tough pill to swallow, butit's essentially the same principle usedwhen the market is thriving, Burke notes."If it is logical to price just ahead of themarket when prices are rising, it's alsological to price just ahead of the marketwhen prices are falling. The sellers whohave accepted this and who are priced atthe lower end of the spectrum of themarket are the ones selling."

FAMILY WEALTH PROTECTIONAND GROWTH STRATEGY

D. Michael Burke P.A.239.777.0473

[email protected] South Tamiami Trail Bonita Springs, FL 34134


[email protected]

PAGE 5

Full service identification and treatment, of any weeds,insects, or diseases that are negatively impacting your lawn.

Full service identification and treatment, of any weeds,insects, or diseases that are negatively impacting your lawn.

Your Newspaper

FAMILY WEALTH PROTECTIONAND GROWTH STRATEGY

Do You Have One?Do You Have One?

C.4587 Great location, 2bed/2bath,1393 sf Condo West of 41 in NorthNaples. Tile thru-out main livingareas & lanai, decorative kitchenbacksplash & accented tile inhallway. Living room w/vaultedceiling leading to the comfortablelanai w/serene view of a beautifullake and large trees. Offered at$199,000.

The Retreat, Naples

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C.4396 - Cozy, spacious, 2 Bed, 2bath second floor, Coach homewith 1480 under air, 1630 total sq.ft. One of the few units availablewith a landscaped view. Tile floor,dramatic high ceilings, ceilingfans. Golf, amenities andclubhouse included in monthly fee.Offered at $225,000.

Fountain Lakes , Estero


I read of a man who stood to speakAt the funeral of a friend.He referred to the dates on her tombstoneFrom the beginning… to the end.

He noted that first came the date of her birthAnd he spoke the following date with tears,But he said what mattered most of allWas the dash between those years.

For that dash represents all the timeThat she spent alive on earth.And now only those who loved herKnow what that little line is worth.

For it matters not how much we own;The cars, the house, the cash,What matters is how we live and loveAnd how we spend our dash.

So think about this long and hard.Are there things you'd like to change?For you never know how much time is left,That can still be rearranged.

If we could just slow down enoughTo consider what's true and realAnd always try to understandThe way other people feel.

And be less quick to anger,And show appreciation moreAnd love the people in our livesLike we've never loved before.

If we treat each other with respect,And more often wear a smileRemembering that this special dashMight only last a little while.

The Dash Poemby Linda Ellis

So, when your eulogy is being readWith your life's actions to rehashWould you be proud of the things they sayAbout how you spent your dash?~ ~ ~


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Page � November 2008Your Newspaper

Family Life(NUI) - Parents want their children to get good grades in school. Start by creating a home environment that is conducive to learning.

“Sometimes, parents think helping their child complete his homework, or even doing their child’s homework for him, will help him achieve better grades in school,” said Richard E. Bavaria, Ph.D, senior vice president for education outreach for Sylvan Learning. “Often, it’s just the opposite, creating a situation where children have not learned the concepts they are later tested on in the classroom.”

To help students, parents can create an atmosphere that works with their child to tackle school tasks efficiently. Sylvan Learning offers parents these tips to develop a personalized homework plan for school success:

• Set Goals. Help your child set personal and attainable goals for each class, and help her identify what will need to be done to reach each goal. For example, to earn an A in American history, she will need to turn in her homework and participate in class.

• Know Your Child. Each child is unique, with different learning styles and academic needs, so parents must personalize the

(NUI) - There’s one family member that many people forget about during holiday family gatherings: the pet.

With the hustle and bustle of the season, many dogs and cats get overly excited when friends and family gather. This not only can annoy your visitors, it also can be harmful to your pet.

But you don’t have to keep your animal crated or locked in a room in order to avoid problems. The following tips will help your pet stay calm enough to not miss out on the holiday fun:

• Give your pet an extra workout. According to the Humane Society, taking your pet for an extra long walk or having a longer playtime can help tire your pet out before the party starts.

Tips to Keep your Pet Calm During Holiday Celebrations

Assessing the Needs of

Aging Parentslearning process. Many educators identify three primary learning styles: auditory, visual and tactile. Children learn in different ways on different days, but usually have a tendency toward one style. If you help your child work within his personal style, he will work more effectively. To learn your child’s personal learning style, visit the “Resources for Parents” area of www.Tutoring.SylvanLearning.com.

• Create a Homework Zone. Set up a study area, complete with a dictionary, paper and pens. Keep the area free from potential distractions.

• Develop Class Files. Make a color-coded file for each of your child’s classes, with separate tabs for homework assignments, exams and projects, so your child can refer back to class materials when studying for tests.

• Celebrate Successes Throughout the Year. Celebrate your child’s achievement when she reaches weekly milestones. Show her you are confident in her academic abilities, and reward the little things, like improving concentration and organizing her study space.

If your child is struggling with homework, talk with her and

determine the underlying cause. Even a child who is doing well can benefit from supplemental assistance to sharpen study and test-taking skills.

TIPS TO HELP CHILDREN WITH THEIR HOMEWORK

• Encourage guests to greet with care. As the partygoers trickle in, the experts suggest asking your guests to calmly greet your pet. Giving an excited greeting can encourage your pet to do the same.

• Relax your pet with a supplement. Many experts say that calming products, such as Pluto Pet’s Pet Calming Spray, can help your pet relieve hyperactivity. After two to four squirts in your pet’s

For additional educational resources for children in grades pre-K through 12, visit www.Tutoring.SylvanLearning.com or call 1-800-31-SUCCESS.

mouth, Pet Calming Spray acts quickly to relieve restlessness, fear, nervousness and aggression and helps antsy pets sleep throughout the night. The spray meets all Food and Drug Administration guidelines for good manufacturing practices and is made with natural ingredients. For more information, go to www.plutopet.com.

• Amuse your pet with a toy. To distract your pet from jumping up on guests or getting into things, the Humane Society recommends using toys as a distraction. For dogs, toys with hiding places for treats are suggested. Catnip toys will keep cats busy.

• Reward good behavior a few times during the event. The Humane Society suggests keeping treats handy. Encourage your guests to refrain from feeding your pet “people food.” Using it as a treat can lead to your pet begging for more at your guests’ feet.

(NUI) - Now - or at some point in the future - your parents may need you to take care of them. Caring for your aging parents is one of the most important challenges you may ever face.

If you don’t live nearby, occasional visits can give you an opportunity to evaluate your parents’ changing needs. Keep this checklist from Easter Seals in mind on your next visit.

• Do your loved ones maintain an adequate diet? Review items in the refrigerator, freezer and pantry. Food should be fresh and edible, items shouldn’t be used past their expiration dates, and cupboards and shelves shouldn’t be empty.

• Can they easily locate and take appropriate medication? Know what medications your parents should be taking on a regular basis. Peek into the medicine cabinet and look for prescriptions that are past their expiration dates.

• Is it safe for them to drive a car? Take a ride with your parent and pay particular attention to his or her speed; response to pedestrians, bicyclists and other drivers; attention to street signs and traffic signals; and attention to overall car maintenance.

• Are they able to properly maintain finances? Look for unpaid bills, overdue notices or duplicate payments.

• Do they generally maintain a safe and clean household? Survey the overall state of your parents’ home. Is it in good shape and tidy?

Visit www.easterseals.com for additional resources, including information about Easter Seals’ new “Loving Conversations” and “Aging in Stride” caregiver guidebooks.

November 2008 Page �Your Newspaper

Fun & GamesDid You KnowDid You KnowDid You Know

A cockroach’s favorite food is the glue on envelopes

Dot To Dot

Connect the Dots and see what you find

Compliments of sudokucollection.com

Answers on page 14

What’s a wuzzle you ask? A wuzzle is a saying/phrase that is made up of a display of words, in an interesting way. The object is to try to figure out the well-known saying, person, place, or thing that each wuzzle is meant to represent.

Compliments of www.WuzzlesandPuzzles.com

Wuzzle

Answers on page 14

CROSSWORD

Crossword puzzles provided by BestCrosswords.comAnswers on page 14

Across1- Attitude5- Actress Merrill9- Chilled13- Nicholas Gage book15- As previously given, in footnotes16- Et ____ (and other men17- Toss, as one’s cookies?18- Rejection power19- Vichyssoise ingredient20- Male sheep21- Melody23- Do ruinous damage25- Go downhill fast?26- Greek goddess of the moon27- Restless30- Suffix with Capri31- Pertaining to the small intestine32- Inflammation of bone37- Pillar38- Lout40- Writing table41- Capital of Chile43- Turkish palace44- Broke bread45- Mental strain47- Puma50- Part of Q.E.D51- Blackfish

52- Goneril’s father53- Printer’s measures56- Word that can precede war, biotic and climax57- ___ monde59- Hawk’s nest: va61- Christmas62- Diarist Frank63- 4th letter of the Greek alphabet64- Withered65- ___-do-well66- Tennis units

Down1- Look 2- Gymnast Korbut3- Appear4- Naval rank, briefly5- Separate6- Brain wave7- Open mesh fabric8- A little cupid9- Have a cow?10- New York city11- Feudal vassal12- Embankment14- Sloping letter22- Accelerate24- Sheltered, nautically

25- Begin26- Nothing special27- Tears28- Charles Lamb’s pen name29- Observed32- So that’s your game!33- That is, in Latin34- Actress Hatcher35- Golfer Aoki36- Pelt38- Turkish saber39- Teen follower42- Villainous character in Shakespeare’s “Othello”43- Caught45- Move unsteadily46- Division of geologic time47- Summer camp transport48- External49- Useful51- Makes brown52- Crescent-shaped figure53- Della’s creator54- Baseball glove55- Oceans58- Hydrocarbon suffix60- Affirmative reply

SUDOKU

The objective is to insert numbers

in the boxes to satisfy only one condition: each

row, column and 3 x 3 box

must contain the digits 1 through 9 eaxctly once. What could be

simpler?

How Do I Do It?

Michael SW Florida ’s Luxu239-777-0473 / Michae

PAGE 8 Your Newspaper

Visit www.CoconutPointRealty.com for Additional Pictures of These & Other SWWebsite owned and maintained by Michael Burke of Jo

Cell: 239-777-0473Fax: 866-890-4452

26269 South Tamiami TrailBonita Springs, FL 34134

[email protected]

H.2168 3+Den, 3 bathMediterranean style great roomopen floor plan, with 2481 underair and 3282 total sq ft. Coffered,volume ceilings, gourmet kitchenwith granite counter-tops, andupgraded tile. Home offered at$519,000 with a beautiful lakeview located in a private gatedgolfing community


C.3597 - 4 Bed + Den, 3 bath,3565 under air, 5524 total sq. ftspacious estate home. Great 2ndfloor bonus room can be used as4th bedroom, exercise or gameroom. Numerous upgrades.Expansive kitchen w/crownmolding, built-in wall oven. Lanaiw/built-in heated pool. Offered at$449,000.


H.2605 Valencia model with 4Bed+Den, 3 bath, with 2750 underair and 3673 total sq ft. Homeoffers beautiful views of the golfcourse, lake and water featurewith a desirable South Westexposure, located in a privategated golfing community. Thisbeautiful designer furnished homeis offered at $849,000 with built-in pool, spa and vaulted ceilings.


C.4399 - Second floor end unitGarden Home, 2 Bed+Den, 2 with1402 under air, 1516 total sq. ft,with lake view. Numerousupgrades. Plantation shutters,ceramic tile, beautiful custommural in kitchen and glass paneledcabinets. Offered Turnkey at$239,000.


Grandézza, Estero

Stoneybrook, Estero

H.3116 3 Bed+Den, 2.5 bath, 2822under air, 5491 total sq ft. Largegourmet kitchen, granite counters,tile backsplash, 42" cabinetw/crown molding. Family roomw/hardwood flooring, dining &Living room tray ceilings w/crownmolding & large sliders leadingout to the lanai's heated pool &outstanding views of large lake &golf course at $1,050,000.


Grandézza, Estero


Grandézza, Estero

Grandézza, Estero

Lighthouse Bay at the Brooks,Bonita Springs


The Colony - Palermo, Bonita Springs C.4675 - 8th floor, 3 bed, 3.5 bath3240 under air, 4110 total sf.Spectacular panoramic views ofthe Gulf of Mexico & Estero Bay.Exquisite turnkey designerdecorated, marble flooring &counter-tops, faux finishes,custom cabinetry, kitchen w/built-in paneled appliances, granitecountertops. Offered at$1,395,000.


Grandézza, EsteroC.4557 Beautifully furnished,designer decorated 3 Bed/2 bath,1727 sf. Numerous upgrades,stunning vaulted ceilings, decorativeniches & ledges throughout.Diagonal tile & accented mosaic tilein foyer & hallway, windowtreatments, decorative wall paper &paint. Kitchen cabinets w/crownmolding, breakfast bar & nookw/fantastic views of the lake.Offered at $299,000.


Grandézza, Estero H.3623 - 3 Bed+Den, 3 bath, 2446under air, 4046 total sq. ftCourtyard home w/captivatingviews. Blinds, 18" tile on diagonal,tray ceiling w/crown molding, ropelighting, state-of-the-art kitchen.Great room w/wall-wall slidersleading to lanai's brick pavers &built-in pool/spa w/expansive lake& fountain views beyond. Offeredat $549,000.

H.3544 4 Bed, 3 Bath, 2910 underair, 5887 total sf, side entry 3-cargarage. Numerous upgrades thru-out, 18x18 marble and Bamboohardwood flooring, custom built-in cabinets, surround sound, built-in heated pool/spa. Fabulousgourmet kitchen, w/granitecountertops and backsplash, 42"custom cabinets w/crownmolding, paneled built-inappliances. Offered at $899,000.

Michael SW Florida ’s Luxu239-777-0473 / Michae


H.3625 - 3 Bed+Den, 3 bath, 2455under air, 4046 total sq. ftcourtyard home w/Tiki Bar. Greatfor entertaining w/built-in pool &spa. Numerous upgrades thru-out.Tile, crown molding, blinds, topelighting, state-of-the-art kitchen.Discounted golf membership &golf cart also for sale. Offered at$539,000.

Grandézza, Estero


Shadow Wood at the Brooks, Bonita Springs

H.3582 3 Bed+Den, 3.5 Bath, 3014under air, 5693 total sf Courtyardhome w/beautiful expansive viewsof lake, golf course & woods.Numerous upgrades thru-out, crownmolding, plantation shutters, tile,hardwood floors, custom built-ins,Bose surround sound. Stunninggourmet kitchen, w/granitecountertops, 42" cherry cabinetsw/crown molding, decorative tile.Offered at $849,000.

Michael Burke

el Burke,uxury Home Expert

[email protected]

Your Newspaper

SW Florida Homes or Call Michael Burke 239-777-0473 for Additional Informationf John R. Wood REALTORS, Bonita Springs, FL 34134

H.3112 3 Bed+Den, 2.5 bath, 2483under air, 4357 total sq ft. Ceramictile in main living areas, highceilings, archways throughout.Kitchen w/granite counters, raisedcabinets & crown molding, state-of-the- art stainless appliances,attractive curved breakfast baroverlooking Nook & Great Room.Lanai w/heated pool/spa, built-inflower beds w/private serene viewof wooded area at $569,000


C.4252 3 bed, 3 bath, 2910 underair, 3530 total sf. 17th floordecorator ready residence w/ Gulf& Bay views. Exquisite granitecounter-tops, custom woodcabinets, marble baths, privateelevator, & stunning high ceilings.Located in an upscale private, gatedcommunity w/the finest amenities,included. Offered at $895,000


C.3636 - 3 bed, 2 baths, 1489under air, 1733 total sq. ft. topfloor unit w/fantastic lake views.Mediterranean architecture in thisupscale, urban living condo onlysteps from shopping, dining &movie theatres. Includedw/granite, marble countertops,ceramic tile, hurricane impactwindows. All this for $528,888.



H.2908 Spectacular open greatroom floor plan, with 3 Bed+Den,3 bath, 2939 under air, 3925 totalsq ft. Many added touches in thisdesigner decorated home for acasual lifestyle with customfeatures throughout. Enjoy thekitchen w/state-of-the-art built-inappliances, 42" wood cabinetry,granite counter tops. Offered at$1,199,000 w/custom poolw/views of a lake, golf course andwoods located in a private gatedcommunity.



Grandézza, Estero The Colony - Palermo , Bonita Springs

Residences at Coconut Point,Bonita Springs

Shadow Wood at the Brooks,Bonita Springs

The Colony - LaScala , Bonita Springs

H.3414 Open floor plan 3 bed/2bath, 1638 under air, 2347 total sf.Dramatic high ceilings, plantationshutters, decorative niches,archways, tile on diagonal.Kitchen w/black appliances,striking black corian countertops,42" cabinets & crown molding,opens up to the great room w/largesliders leading out to the lanaiw/fantastic views of privatewooded area. Offered at $365,000


Savona, Estero

C.3595 - 3 Bed, 2 bath, 2190 underair, 3236 total sq. ft open greatroom floor plan. Open kitchenw/granite counters, upgradedcabinets. Plantation shutters,decorative ceiling fans, 12'ceilings, living room w/stunningfull wall of glass sliders leading outto the tropical lanai w/heated built-in pool and spa. Offered at$495,000.


Grandézza, Estero

Grandézza, Estero

C.4356 Bed+Den, 4.5 bath, 4068under air, 4988 total sf. decoratorready residence in an exclusivecommunity w/panoramic views ofthe Gulf & Bay. Private elevator,vestibule, tray ceilings/crownmolding. Kitchen w/built-instainless appliances, granitecountertops, custom 42" cabinets.Master suite w/private entry toterrace & marble baths. Offeredat $1,265,000.00


Twin Eagles-Hedgestone, NaplesL.680 Build your own customestate home on this large lot on the10th fairway in this exclusivegolfing community, w/two golfcourses designed by Nicklaus &Player. Private Community offersmiles of scenic walking trails,biking paths, parks gardens, 47,000sf clubhouse, Har-Tru tenniscourts, fitness club, dining and hashosted the ACE Group Classic &PGA Champions Tour! Offered at$149,000.

C.4581 2 bed+Den/2 bath, 1727sf., furnished carriage home inprivate, gated golfing community.Vaulted ceilings, tile in main livingareas, carpet. Comfortable livingroom w/fantastic view of the lake& golf course. Centrally locatedcommunity, within minutes fromairport, FGCU, new shoppingcenters, fine & casual dining.Offered at $249,000 furnished.


Grandézza, Estero


C4121 2 Bed + Den, 2 bath, 2-carattached garage, 2060 under air,2790 total sf. Carriage homestylishly decorated w/ceramic tileon diagonal, solid surface countertops, tall kitchen cabinets, wet bar.Fantastic lake views from mostrooms. Offered at $418,500.

H.3298 4+Den, 4.5 bath, 3-car,5196, 8916 total sf, custom estatehome. Arches, columns, volumeceilings w/ triple trays, crownmolding, coffered ceilings.Gourmet kitchen w/ built-instainless appliances, decorativerange hood, granite counter-tops.Lanai w/columns, custom pool/spa, waterfalls, fountains, sunningshelf, gazebo w/fire pit & fireplaceOffered at $2,150,000.

el Burke, uxury Home Expert

[email protected]

Shadow Wood at the Brooks,Bonita Springs

Page �0 November 2008Your Newspaper

Home & Garden(NUI) - The holidays mean get-togethers, but cramming the extended family into a single home can create more strain than peace and goodwill.

The experts at Merry Maids offer these easy c l e a n i n g tips for a s p a r k l i n g clean and welcoming h o l i d a y home.

Tackle the shared living space:

• Remove clutter from chairs, couches and end tables. This will create more seating to watch the big game or your favorite holiday movie.

• To clear floor space, temporarily move any pet beds or floor pillows to another, less public room. Use a damp sponge or the bottom of a clean sneaker to remove pet hair from the floor and upholstery.

• Be sure to clean any folding chairs that may be used before bringing them into your home. An all-purpose cleaner or mild soap and water should do the trick.

Keep your kitchen spotless:

• Clear countertops by removing items you will not use, like toasters or cookie jars, and store them in cabinets. This will give you more space to prepare your holiday

MaKe ROOM FOR HOLIdaY Fun

dinner.

• Keep the sink clear of dishes. For stainless steel or ceramic sinks, rinse the sink after each use and wipe with a clean, dry

cloth. Drying the sink will prevent mineral deposits from building up on the surface.

• If you have dried-on food in the microwave, fill a two-cup glass measuring cup

with a cup of water and the juice from one lemon. Microwave for about 45 seconds or until the water boils. This should create steam in the microwave that will loosen dried-on foods, so you can wipe the microwave clean. The lemon juice will provide a fresh scent.

• Restore the shine to your silverware by giving it a quick, gentle scrub with lemon juice or toothpaste. Then rinse it and buff it with a soft cloth.

use lighting to set the mood:

• If you don’t have time to dust and polish, the right lighting can help set the mood while taking attention away from unfinished tasks. Candlelight casts flattering shadows and helps create a warm, relaxing setting.

• After the guests leave, consider hiring a professional home-cleaning service so you can get a moment to relax.

(NUI) - Fresh air and natural landscapes invigorate and relax hikers, bikers and other outdoorsmen. But city and town dwellers don’t have to live without flora - natural accents can turn any home into a nature escape.

Here are some tips for homeowners looking to get back to nature in their own homes:

• Landscape your Living Room. Potted plants can provide soothing finishes in living areas and bedrooms. Home gardeners love ficus plants or fig trees, because they’re adaptable and require little maintenance. Orchids, which grow in either natural or artificial light, provide tropical color.

• Transform your Bathroom. The right touches can turn your bathroom into an exotic retreat. Flowers provide elegance, while new, vanity lighting creates a luxurious note.

Organically inspired bathroom collections can turn regular rooms into spas. The Bamboo bathroom collection from ShowHouse by Moen emulates living bamboo canes and features an open waterway design, mimicking the flow of a natural waterfall. The falling water creates soothing sounds and sensations.

• use Natural Colors. Natural hues, whether warm or cool, revive indoor spaces. Green, the color of foliage, creates a back-to-nature feel, while the right blue can turn any room into a beachside retreat. Pinks, yellows and oranges can add

Indoor Landscaping for Natural Home Touches

floral touches.

To bring the outdoors in, consider brightly colored window treatments. The right curtains can seamlessly blend outdoor colors with indoor décor.

• Reflect on Nature. A mirror, strategically hung to reflect an outdoor scene, can make a room feel more natural - while also making rooms feel larger and more airy. Mirrorscapes Mirror Frames from Inspiration by Moen add the finishing touch to plate-glass mirrors, and install easily enough for decorating novices.

HOW TO GROW HERBS INDOORS

Step 1Herbs can be planted in clay or plastic pots. If herbs are planted in

Things you’ll Need:

• several small plant pots or trays • plant soil • fertilizer • watering can • windowsill

By: Hapworth

plastic pots, they need less water. Moisture evaporates from clay pots keeping the soil cool. Use a good potting mixture. I prefer Miracle Gro Potting Soil. If planting from seed, begin with a seed tray or small pot. If planting from seedlings, use pots, 3-4”.

Step 2Avoid windowsills exposed to direct sunlight, but herbs do need approx. 6 hours a day of sun. Turn herbs a little each day so all parts get light. You may consider artificial lighting. Most herbs prefer a temp. of 60-70 degrees. Sharp temperature drops are stressful for herbs, so avoid draughts.

Step 3Some possible herbs to grow in pots: Chives, Chervil, Basil, Marjoram, Parsley, Savory, Thyme. When watering, use tepid water and water in the morning. You can purchase small stick gauges if you are not sure when to water the herbs. Do not over water.

Step 4Group your herbs together to create a humid atmosphere. You can also place the pots on moist pebbles. A quick spray during warm weather is also helpful. If

leaves become pale yellow, that’s a good indicator that fertilizer is needed. Over-fertilization signs are brown leaves. Liquid fertilizers dissolved in water work great. You can also get fertilizer tablets and sticks.

Step 5As far as harvesting your herbs, fresh leaves can be picked at any time during the growing season. Leaves are most tender and sweet when the plant is young. Picked leaves can be stored in a plastic bag in the refrigerator where they will keep for several days. Wilted leaves can be revived in water.

• See your Aromatherapist. Refreshing, natural scents can really set a mood. Whether fresh, like cotton or linen, or floral, like lilac or gardenia, aromas can make rooms soothe.

Eco-friendly scented candles, like the soy or beeswax candles made by Bluecorn Naturals, burn cleaner than normal candles, helping to reduce indoor air pollution. Placing orange or lemon peels in small bowls around the house can create flame-free scents.

For more information about natural-looking décor, visit www.moen.com.

HOW TO

CORNER

November 2008 Page ��Your Newspaper

Fore! It’s Time For A “Mancation”(NC)—Guys-only holidays – or ‘mancations’ – are becoming more popular as men look for more time to re-connect with friends they don’t have time to see after work or on weekends at home.

For a stress-free holiday with the guys, golf getaways are some of the easiest to plan because your primary activity is already decided. If you choose a resort with an on-site golf course, plans are even simpler. But before you go, make sure your equipment is in proper order.

“Traveling with golf equipment can be straightforward and stress-free, as long as you take a few minutes to check your equipment and find out whether you are missing any key items,” says Barry Wallis, Manager of Golf Education at Callaway Golf. “Golfers accustomed to playing close

to home may not realize that golf travel should involve packing a few extra things that can make or break a fun getaway.”

Arriving at your destination with damaged clubs is enough to ruin a holiday. To avoid damage, protect your clubs with a purpose-built golf travel bag, like Callaway’s X Tour Cart Golf Bag Carrier, which features

a strong outer shell with Callaway’s Steelhead Club Protection system, wheels for ease of transport, and a power pull handle. And for further protection, Callaway offers the CG Tracker bag recovery program to help reunite you with your bag if it is ever lost. Details are available at www.callawaygolf.com/ca.

Departing on a golf trip in fall or winter can mean you may not have swung your clubs in several weeks or months. It’s important to do a full check of your golf equipment before you depart. If you find any caked dirt or rust on your clubs, wash with warm, soapy water and thoroughly dry them before packing for air travel.

Make sure you know how many bags your airline will accept, and whether there are any rules for checking in golf equipment as luggage. Then swing away in the sun!

Plan for a quick recovery from loss, or theft

Travel Safety Quick Tip(NC)—Guard against the loss or theft of your travel documents. Resort specialist, Club Med, suggests: When packing, keep all important papers and documents with you in your hand luggage. Never check anything that you simply cannot afford to

lose. Before you leave home, take at least two photocopies of your passport, air tickets,

medical insurance, driver’s license, and credit cards. Leave a copy at home and put a copy in the bag that does not contain the originals.

(NC) – Env i ronmen ta l ly friendly car options are becoming more and more popular among new vehicle buyers as they look for ways to cut fuel costs and reduce their environmental footprint. Here are some of the bells and whistles on the market today:

• Variable valve timing and lift improves the flow of fuel and air during the engine cycle by varying the opening and closing of the engine valves depending on need. The technology can result in both greater power and better fuel efficiency;

• Cylinder deactivation allows V-6 and V-8 engines to operate as though they

GREENER CAR OPTIONS GAINING POPuLARITy AMONG NEW CAR OWNERS

had fewer cylinders. While cylinder deactivation cannot decrease the weight of engines, it does reduce fuel consumption under light-load highway cruising conditions by only delivering fuel to activated cylinders;

• Gasoline and diesel direct injection uses sophisticated electronic fuel-flow and air flow controls, and precision injectors which inject the fuel directly into the cylinder and optimize the ideal mixture of air and fuel during combustion;

• Continuously Variable Transmission or CVTs don’t have a gearbox with a set number of gears, instead they typically operate on a pulley

configuration that allows an infinite number of engine/wheel speed ratios. This technology results in better engine speed matching, ideal “gear” selection and improved fuel efficiency;

• Hybrid Technology: by combining an internal combustion engine with an

electrical motor and battery pack, most hybrids today achieve improvements in fuel efficiency by using the electric motor to supplement engine power. Some hybrids can also operate exclusively using the electric motor at low speeds. Batteries do not require plugging in and are recharged by harnessing

the energy from coasting, braking and from the engine;

• Electronic throttle control responds to changing engine conditions and precisely controls fuel combustion. Decreased amounts of unburned fuel result in improved fuel efficiency;

• Real time fuel consumption monitoring allows you to determine how much fuel your vehicle is using under different driving conditions;

• Tinted glass can help to keep your vehicle interior cooler and more comfortable on hot sunny days;

FUNNY

ROAD

SIGNS

Travel & Automotive

Page �2 November 2008Your Newspaper

Roasted Green Beans With Almond Brittle Makes 4 servings

1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed 1 tablespoon olive oil 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt, divided 1/3 cup whole natural almonds, roughly chopped 1/2 cup sugar

Preheat oven to 375 F. Place green beans in a baking pan and toss with olive oil and 1/4 teaspoon salt.Place almonds on a baking sheet. Roast almonds and green beans for 10 minutes. Cover green beans with foil and roast for an additional 30 minutes.

While green beans are roasting, make the brittle. Spray a sheet of foil with cooking spray and set aside. Place sugar and 1/2 cup of water in a small, very clean saucepan, ensuring sugar is completely covered with water.

Turn heat to high and bring to a simmer. Let caramelize until deep, golden brown, watching constantly, as this happens fairly quickly. Stir in chopped almonds, still warm from the oven.

Spread this sticky brittle on prepared foil. Sprinkle with remaining salt and let cool.

Add crumbled almond brittle to cooked green beans.

Whisky Chili 1 tbsp (15 mL) vegetable oil 1 medium onion, chopped 1 red pepper, diced 1 lb (500 g) extra lean ground beef or ground sirloin 2 cloves garlic, minced 2 tbsp (30 mL) chilli powder 1 tsp (5 mL) cumin powder 1/3 cup (75 mL) Whisky 2 28 oz (2 - 796mL) canned tomatoes, diced with liquid 1 tbsp (15 mL) tomato paste 2 19oz (2 - 540mL) canned kidney beans, drained and rinsed 1 tbsp (15 mL) yellow mustard 2 tsp (10 mL) granulated sugar 6 crusty bread rolls (optional)

In a large pot, heat oil over medium high heat.Add onion, red pepper and beef. Cook, stirring occasionally, until onions and peppers are softened and the meat is no longer pink, about 10 minutes.Add garlic, chili powder and cumin and cook for 1 minute.Add Whisky, tomatoes, and tomato paste; bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer, uncovered, for 20 minutes. Stir occasionally.

Add beans and mustard; cook until beans are heated through.Add sugar, if desired, to adjust acidity. Season to taste, with salt and pepper.Serving suggestion: Hollow out crusty bread rolls and use as serving bowls.

PB&J Poppers

1/2 cup Creamy Peanut Butter, stirred 1/4 cup Low Sugar Apricot Preserves or Orange Marmalade Cinnamon to taste 2 Tbsp. minced dried apricots 1 cup low-fat granola

In a small bowl, combine the peanut butter, preserves, cinnamon and minced dried apricots. Measure the mixture by a half rounded teaspoonful. Roll rounded ball into granola and place in candy-sized paper cups.

Recipes Of The MonthMore Recipes on Page �

Recent Closings for the Greater Coconut Point Area - 9/15/2008 to 10/15/2008


[email protected] South Tamiami Trail Bonita Springs, FL 34134


[email protected] Closings for the Greater Coconut Point Area - 9/15/2008 to 10/15/2008

PAGE 13Your Newspaper

To view more closed details visit www.CoconutPointRealty.com and click on Market ReportsThis report and data is based on information from the Multiple Listing Service of Bonita Springs-Estero, Inc. These properties were not all listed or sold by John R. Wood Realtors Inc. and were listed or sold by various MLS participating offices. Website owned and maintained by Michael Burke of John R. Wood REALTORS, Bonita Springs, FL 34134

20321 Grande Oak Shoppes Blvd., Suite 308 • Estero, FL 33928

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With Mess Be Gone you will say, "Goodbye to the Mess!"

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Bed Full Half Living Year Private Private List Selling Cost/ % of ClosedCommunity Address Rooms Bath Bath Area Built Pool Spa Price Price Sq. Ft. Asking Date DOMCOPPERLEAF AT THE BROOKSSage Meadow 23320 Copperleaf Blvd 3+Den 3 0 2090 2001 Yes Yes $529,500 $499,000 $239 94.24% 09/18/08 106LIGHTHOUSE BAY AT THE BROOKSLighthouse Bay 23931 Amalfi Coast Rd #113 3 Bed 2 0 1844 2002 Yes No $329,900 $300,000 $163 90.94% 10/03/08 109SHADOW WOOD AT THE BROOKSTamarind Trace 23163 Foxberry Ln 3+Den 2 1 2580 2001 Yes No $750,000 $715,000 $277 95.33% 10/08/08 72Oak Hammock II 10492 Autumn Breeze Dr #202 3 Bed 2 0 2040 2004 No No $375,000 $350,000 $172 93.33% 09/30/08 85Laurel Meadow 23224 Oakglen Ln 3 Bed 2 0 1982 2001 Yes No $469,000 $435,000 $219 92.75% 09/30/08 231Oak Strand 9255 Oak Strand DR 3 Bed 2 0 2000 2000 Yes No $535,000 $495,000 $248 92.52% 09/29/08 334Laurel Meadow 23132 Oakglen Ln 3 Bed 3 0 2000 2001 Yes No $475,000 $460,000 $230 96.84% 09/19/08 143SPRING RUN AT THE BROOKSWinding Stream 9231 Spring Run Blvd, #2109 2+Den 2 0 1558 2001 No No $295,900 $285,000 $183 96.32% 09/24/08 140Streamside 9060 Spring Run Blvd, #209 2+Den 2 0 1558 1998 No No $315,000 $280,000 $180 88.89% 09/16/08 244GRANDEZZAOakwood 20220 Calice Ct, #304 2+Den 2 0 2150 2002 No No $325,000 $310,000 $144 95.38% 10/10/08 488Saraceno 20121 Saraceno Dr 2+Den 2 0 1875 2003 Yes No $424,900 $395,000 $211 92.96% 10/09/08 175Cypress Cove 20088 Buttermere Ct 4+Den 3 0 3021 2002 Yes Yes $975,000 $700,000 $232 71.79% 10/07/08 482Cypress Cove 20088 Seadale Ct 3 Bed 2 0 1800 2004 Yes Yes $399,900 $375,000 $208 93.77% 09/15/08 208PELICAN LANDINGReserve at Pelica Landing 24420 Reserve Ct #103 3 Bed 2 0 1657 1994 No No $309,000 $236,000 $142 76.38% 10/03/08Pelica Landing 3551 Lakemont Dr. 3 Bed 3 0 2642 1995 Yes Yes $699,900 $620,000 $235 88.58% 09/29/08 261Southbridge 25071 Ballycastle Ct W #103 2+Den 2 0 1808 1997 No No $299,900 $275,000 $152 91.70% 09/19/08 258THE COLONYSorrento 23650 ViaVeneto Blvd, #2101 3 Bed 3 0 2818 2001 No No $849,000 $700,000 $248 82.45% 10/10/08 87Navona at the Colony 23540 ViaVeneto Blvd, #1904 3 Bed 3 0 1791 2006 No No $659,900 $580,000 $324 87.89% 10/01/08 257Treviso at the Colony 23750 Viatrevi Way #304 3+Den 3 1 3099 2004 No No $899,900 $899,900 $290 100.00% 09/17/08 154Florencia 23850 Viaitalia Cir #2004 3 Bed 3 0 2086 2007 No No $845,000 $775,000 $372 91.72% 09/15/08 282MEDITERRABrendisi 29101 Brendisi WAY, #202 3+Den 3 0 2873 2006 No No $699,000 $655,000 $228 93.71% 10/02/08 555Cortile 10834 Est Cortile Ct 4+Den 4 1 4124 2006 Yes Yes $2,750,000 $2,200,000 $533 80.00% 09/25/08 231Monterosso 15505 Monterosso Ln, #101 3+Den 3 0 2503 2002 No No $699,000 $610,000 $244 87.27% 09/18/08 336Monterosso 15536 Monterosso Ln, #201 3+Den 3 0 2685 2002 No No $795,000 $742,500 $277 93.40% 09/16/08 302

EMERGENCY - Police, Fire, Medical: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .911Lee County Ambulance (Non Emergency) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .335-1600

Lee County Sheriff (Non Emergency) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .477-1200

Lee County Emergency Management (Weather & Disaster Spills) . . .477-3600Poison Control Center . . . .800-282-3171 Hospitals:North Collier Hospital . . . . . . .513-7000Health Park Hospital . . . . . . . .433-7799Chamber of Commerce (Local Area):Bonita Springs Area . . . . . . . . .992-2943Estero Area . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .948-7990Library (Local Area):Bonita Public Library . . . . . . .992-1043Estero South County Regional Library . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .390-3200

License (Lee County):Animal License . . . . . . . . . . . .432-2083Boat Registration/Fishing License . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .339-6000

Drivers License . . . . . . . . . . . .278-7192Vehicle Registration - Lee County . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .339-6000

Voters Registration . . . . . . . . .339-6300Medical (Lee & Collier Counties):Gulf Coast Hospital - Ft. Myers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .768-5000

Lee Memorial Hospital - Ft. Myers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .332-1111

North Collier Hospital (NCH) - Downtown Naples . . . . . . . . .552-7000North Collier Hospital (NCH) - North Naples . . . . . . . . . . . . .436-5000Poison Control Center . . . .800-282-3171Newspaper:Bonita Banner . . . . . . . . . . . . .765-0110Coconut Point Press . . . . . . . . .777-0473Ft. Myers News Press . . . . . . .335-0233Naples Daily News . . . . . . . . .992-3609Public Schools (Lee County):

Edison Community College . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .800-749-2322Florida Gulf Coast University . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .800-590-3428School District of Lee County . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .334-1102

Real Estate Services:Michael Burke P.A., John R. Wood Realtors . . . . . .777-0473Homestead Exemption - Lee County . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .339-6120

Property Appraiser - Lee County . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .339-6100

Social Security . . . . . . . . 800-772-1213Southwest Florida Int'l Airport . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .590-4800

Transportation:Airport Shuttle Service . . . . . .216-7777Greyhound . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .334-1011Lee County Bus Transit . . . . . .533-8726U.S. Postal Service (Lee & Collier Counties) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .800-275-8777Utilities (Lee County):Embarq . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .866-304-6820Electric - Florida Power and Light . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .800-262-1322Florida Recycling & Waste . . .332-8500Gas Service - Teco (Peoples Gas) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .877-932-6747Solid Waste - Lee County . . . .338-3302Telephone - Sprint (Bonita) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .800-699-0728Telephone - Sprint (Lee County) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .800-339-1811TV Cable - Comcast . . . . .800-432-4770TV Cable - Time Warner . . . . .574-2020Water/Sewer - Bonita Springs .992-0711Water/Sewer - Unincorporated Lee County . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .800-485-0214VeterinariansFlorida Veterinary 24-Hour Emergency . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .239-992-8878

Important "239" NumbersJazz Jams: (Bonita Springs)Nov 20, 6-9pm. Enjoy smoothsounds of local Cahlua &Cream in the center courtyardof The Promenade.Estero Fine Art Show: (Estero)Nov 15, 10am-5pm & 16,11am-5pm. Artist from aroundthe country & Canadaexhibit/sell their art works, pluslive entertainment thru-out theweekend. Located at thesouthest side of Miromar Mallat 10801 Corkscrew Rd. Cost:Free.Germain Arena: (Estero)(239) 948-7825 or visitwww.GermainArena.com forEverblades tickets & othershows.Holiday House at the Edison &Ford Winter Estates: (Ft Myers)Nov 30 - Dec 31 (closedChristmas Eve). Located at2350 McGregor Blvd.Featuring wonderfuldecorations throughout theEstates, art/craft exhibits, booksignings, demonstrations, music& dance performances. Forfurther information call 239334-7419 or visit www.edison-ford-estate.com.Holiday Pottery Sale: (Ft Myers)First week December.Exhibition & sales local pottery& other crafts at Florida Gulf

Coast University. For moreinformation call 239 263-8242.Broadway Palm DinnerTheater: (Ft. Myers)Located at 1380 Colonial Blvd.For more info & shows visitwww.broadwaypalm.com/home.htm or call (239) 278-4422Barbara B. Mann Theatre:(Ft. Myers)For more info & listing ofshows, visit, www.bbmannpah.com/index.php or call (239)481-4849 or 800-440-7469.Old Florida Festival: (Naples)Nov 1, 2. Indoor/outdoorfestival celebrating history ofFlorida. Complete w/pirates,conquerors & early settlers.Refreshments & liveentertainment. For furtherinformation call 239 774-8476.Festival of Lights: (Naples)Nov 24, 5-9pm. Third StreetSouth welcomes 32nd annualtree lighting ceremonyw/community & nationalentertainment, snow &shopping.Celebration of Lights: (Naples)Nov 25, 26, 28 & 29, 6-9pm.Third Street South continues toentertainment w/music & snoweach night.New Years Weekend Art Fair:(Naples)Last week in December in

downtown Naples, 5th Ave.Annual celebration, paintings,sculptures & crafts of localartists, complete w/food booths& live musicians. For moreinformation call 239 472-3755.Historic Old Naples WalkingTours: (Naples)Nov 5, 12, 19 & 26/Dec 3, 10,17, 24 & 31, 10am at PalmCottage 137 12th Ave. South,261-8164 (reservationsrequired)Historic Palm Cottage &Norris Gardens: (Naples)Nov 1-29/Dec 2-31, open Tues& Sat 1-4pm. (239) 261-8164.Thursday on Third: (Naples)Nov 20/Dec 4, 11 & 18, 6-9pm.Enjoy music & otherentertainment.Farmers Market: (Naples)Nov 15, 22 & 29/Dec 6, 13, 20& 27. 7:30am-11:30am Featur-ing nearly 50 vendors. Locatedbehind Tommy Bahamas.Naples Trolley Tours: (Naples)1010 Sixth Ave. S, 262-7300.See the town & shop fromquaint trolleys.Philharmonic Center:(Naples) Located at 5833Pelican Bay. For more info andcurrent shows visitwww.philtickets.org/tickets/index.aspx or call (239) 597-1900or (800) 597-1900

Nov./Dec. Events 2008 Bonita Springs, Estero, Ft. Myers, Naples

Page �� November 2008Your Newspaper

Lifestyles

Why Dogs Bite People!

By: Daniel Stamp

Here are five essential beliefs and behaviors that will help you take control.

Choice not chance determines your future: Remember you are not in prison. Start by looking at the choices you are making in life. If you want to be happier, be more effective at work, be less stressed and live longer, then choose to live a more balanced life.

Stop being a ‘busy body’: Don’t flatter yourself that

HOW TO TAKE CONTROLbeing super busy or activity driven is a good measure of your success or importance. It’s not - rather it may be a smoke screen to hide behind. If you clearly identify and write down your priorities for each day you will immediately find that your inputs (activities) decrease and your outputs (results) increase. It’s a simple productivity equation and it works for everyone, in every job.

Missions impossible are always impossible: Stop asking the almost impossible

of yourself, your team or your family. Rather give everyone - including yourself - the direction, resources and most importantly the time, to achieve goals.

Stop ‘stinking thinking’: The fastest way to lose friends, the respect of your colleagues and poison family relationships is to be a nag or constant complainer. A negative attitude to life will over time lower your immune system too! Here’s a tip that might change your life. Before entering the office

in the morning, going into a meeting or returning home at night, take a deep breath and say and think something positive - you’ll be amazed at how infectious happiness can be.

86,400 in your bank every day: That’s the number of seconds deposited in your time bank each and every day. How you spend it determines the life you lead. Unlike a financial account, you don’t get to carry it over to a new day or save it with interest for retirement. You use it or lose

it. So don’t waste a precious second of it on third rate TV, making commitments you can’t keep, gossiping at the water cooler, berating your kids for things you used to do too, endless complaining, talking and not listening. Yes all of the traps that we fall into too easily.

Rather, take charge today and live a life in tune with your beliefs and values. Your behaviors each day will then reflect the person you really are.

Laws of the Universe: Law of Mechanical Repair:

After your hands become coated with grease, your nose will begin to itch, or you’ll have to pee.

Thoughts to Ponder:Have a comfortable chair, and use it once a day!

Life is not measured by the number of breaths you take, but by what takes your breath away!

PUzzle SOlUtIOnSSudoku Answer Crossword Answer

Wuzzle Answers

1. Falling Temperature2. Two Under Par3. Fat Chance4. Broken Heart5. Hot Under the Collar6. Head in the Sand

November 2008 Page ��Your Newspaper

Out-Of-Town Properties

To Have your Home Listed On This Page Call

1-800-330-5709 Listings on this page are selected by the publisher and not by any individual Realtor, Agent or Broker

For Information On Any Of These Listings Or Other Properties In These Areas Please Call

1-800-330-5709Chestermere, Alberta

$1,150,000.001

The home features 9’ ceilings and 8’ doors. The kitchen is beautiful and functional with upgraded stainless steel appliances.The master is generous in size and provides your own oasis retreat with a jetted tub and a marble shower. With 2,570 sq. ft. developed this home also features central air, a central vacuum, a high efficiency furnace, underground sprinkler system and gas BBQ hook-ups.

Chestermere, Alberta$749,000

This cedar log bungalow is only 30 minutes to downtown Calgary. This great room plan has maple hardwood floors, granite counters, new fixtures and new carpet and paint. Large dining area, spacious kitchen, living room and master bedroom on the main. There are 3 bedrooms above grade in the walkout. Lots of room to entertain on the deck, patio or dock. Nicely landscaped, well-kept lakefront home.

Gorgeous & totally remodeled in 2005 “Olde Florida” style home with water views from every room. Granite in kitchen & bathrooms, stainless & black appliances, new wood cabinetry, new fixtures & new lighting. Also custom painted, plantation shutters, saturnia flooring, & 45 ft. boat dock & lift.

Naples, Florida$1,099,000

Directly on Doctor’s Pass with Magnificent Gulf Views. This first floor low rise offers easy access; its Private 20 slip Marina can accommodate up to a 26’ sporting boat. Direct Gulf access, No Bridges. The designer kitchen features Custom Cabinetry with granite countertops and tile back splash.

Naples, Florida$1,099,950

2

Situated on 17 acres with it’s own private pond, 4 bedrooms, den/office, family room, rec room 2 fireplaces, formal dining room, 3 car garage & much more.

Bancroft, Ontario$649,900

3

Valencia model with 4 Bed+Den, 3 bath, with 2750 under air and 3673 total sq ft. Home offers views of the golf course, lake and water feature with a desirable South West exposure, located in a private gated golfing community. This is a beautiful designer furnished home with builtin pool, spa and vaulted ceilings.

Bonita Springs, Florida$849,000

12

Kipling/Martingrove• 3 Bedrooms • 3 Bath • Finished Basement • Walk in Closets • Newly Renovated • Close to all Amenities

Toronto, Ontario$369,900

9

Perched in a truly Majestic .9 acre property, is this executive rancher only 7 years new! The living is easy, everything on one level! Too many features to list here! The grounds are so impressive and just a 7 minute walk to the shores of Crescent Beach!

Vancouver , Britsh Columbia$1,899,000

11

Professionally finished basement with 5th bedroom & billiards room. Gourmet-style kitchen with Silestone counters, striking renovated bathrooms with 2 Jacuzzi tubs and a premium lot with 20x40 in ground pool and sprinkler system.

Brampton, Ontario$569,900

8

Fully finished open concept home will impress all when viewed. All brick, many upgrades incl. custom trim, 9’ ceilings, oversized kitchen, lg dining nook, ceramic & hardwood flrs, oak staircases, casement windows, covered deck off kitchen, gas fireplace in living room, the list goes on.

Wasaga Beach, Ontario$439,900

5

The many features of this home include nine foot ceilings, in-floor heating, gas fireplace, large windows and balcony. The master bedroom has ample closet space and a cheater ensuite with soaker tub and separate shower. Ensuite laundry, titled heated underground parking and separate storage locker are included. Excellent location close to major shopping, transportation and major roadways.

Lake Bonivista, Alberta$263,000

7

Bed+Den, 2.5 bath, 2822 under air, 5491 total sq ft. Large gourmet kitchen, granite counters, tile backsplash, 42” cabinet w/crown molding. Family room w/hardwood flooring, dining & Living room tray ceilings w/crown molding & large sliders leading out to the lanai’s heated pool & outstanding views of large lake & golf course.

Bonita Springs, Florida$1,050,000

4 6

10

Pool.Servce UnlimitedPhone: 239.592.5539www.pool-service-unlimited.com

So you can enjoy your pool!

Website owned and maintained by Michael Burke of John R. Wood REALTORS, Bonita Springs, FL 34134

239-948-1147

McClain Home Inspection, LLC

& Home Watch ServiceHome Inspections from $199.00 • Home Watch Service from $20.00/mo.

Web Site: www.grmcclain.com Email: [email protected]

Certified Home Inspector

MONDAY Ladies DayAll Ladies Receive $5.00 Off

(#3, #4, OR #5 WASH PACKAGE)

WEDNESDAY COLLEGE DAY

Show your college ID and get $5.00 Off(#3, #4, OR #5 WASH PACKAGE)

THURSDAY MANLY DAY

All Men Receive $5.00 Off And A Coupon For aFree Draft Beer (#3, #4, OR #5 WASH PACKAGE)

10,000 Arcos Ave.Estero, Florida 33928

(239) 949-6031

$3.00 OffAny Wash Package

Not valid with any other offers or promotionsCoupon Expires 8/31/2008

withthis Ad

Michael Burke, SW Florida ’s Luxury Home Expert239-777-0473 / [email protected]

www.CoconutPointRealty.com

Visit our Website: www. Café-Bonaparte.com

Pool.Servce UnlimitedPhone: 239.592.5539www.pool-service-unlimited.com

So you can enjoy your pool!

lifestylesC H I R O P R A C T I C

Whole Body • Whole FamilyWhole Life 1

2

Dr. Todd E. WickmannChiropractic Physician

Certified ChiropracticSports Physician

Certified Athletic TrainerTitleist Performance Institute Certified

11300 Lindbergh Blvd., Suite #107Fort Myers, FL 33913

239.334.9355 Fax: [email protected]

www.lifestyleschiro.com

$25.00 OFF EXAM!Present at time of service

1. Golf Examination2. Golf Exam and Exercise

to Go3. Exam and In-office

Exercise Instruction

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