CPP - Nov - Dec 2008

Coconut Point Press
Presenting Luxurious Bonita Springs , Estero & Naples Lifestyles
November/December, 2008

Lee County Leads Upward Trend in Florida Home Sales
by Katharine Swam The third quarter held good news for Lee County: Though paired with a decrease in price, home sales statistics for August and September indicated a dramatic increase in the number of sales from last year. This upward trend suggests that Florida's real estate market is beginning to stabilize, starting with Naples, Fort Myers, and the surrounding areas. In September, the Florida Association of Realtors released a report comparing August 2008 home sales statewide to those of August 2007. Several areas offered substantial increases in the number of home sales, led by the Fort Myers-Cape Coral area at 32 percent. According to many experts, the good news may indicate that the real estate market is beginning to stabilize, beginning with areas such as Lee County. "August and September are usually slow months for the real estate market in our area," says Michael Burke, a luxury real estate expert specializing in Lee and Collier Counties. "But this year, August's sales actually surpassed those in January, March, or June - and September's sales ranked even higher." According to the August report, the Fort Myers-Cape Coral area enjoyed 684 home sales in August 2008, a significant increase from only 520 sales in August 2007. Condo sales in the area also rose average of 649 homes sold. But in August of this year, there were 729 pending sales, 12 percent more than the month's average." This upward trend becomes even more obvious in September's numbers, with the pending sales for Lee County coming in at a whopping 200 percent increase over September 2007. In the combined areas of Naples, Bonita, and Estero, September's closed sales surpassed September 2007 by 40 percent. At the same time as the number of sales have increased, prices have decreased. The Florida Association of Realtors' report indicates that median prices in the Fort Myers-Cape Coral area have fallen 41 percent over the past year: From $250,800 in August 2007, to $146,900 in August 2008. Yearto-date sales numbers for September 2008 show a similar story: The median price for the combined areas of Naples, Bonita, and Estero was $304,495, down 20 percent from $381,000 at the end of September 2007. "In June of 2007, I sold a house for $575,000. In July of 2008, I sold the same model for $525,000," Burke said, noting that he has observed price drops in choice communities of between 9 and 12 percent. Some experts suggest that competitive pricing has triggered the rise in sales. In an interview
continued on page 5

Michael Burke
Bonita Springs/Estero/Naples Luxury Real Estate Expert substantially, from 128 to 168. In addition to showing an increase from last year's data, Burke notes that the number of home sales in August 2008 also beat out the average for the month over the last decade. "If you take the number of home sales in August over the past nine years, you come up with an

FEATURED PROPERTY
offered by: Michael

Burke, P.A., REALTOR®
Grandézza Grande Estates

INSIDE THIS ISSUE
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

Estero

H.3620 - Beautiful designer decorated 4 Bed+Den, 4.5 bath, 3495 under air, 4867 total sq. ft. Estate home w/countless upgrades. Tile on diagonal, tray ceilings, rope lighting, window treatments. Formal living, dining room & den w/double door entry w/stunning built-in. Gourmet kitchen, built-in appliances. 42" cabinets w/crown molding, family room w/expansive corner sliders opens the room to the lanai w/tropical wooded views beyond. Built-in pool/spa & grill, w/separate guest suite entry w/private bath off the lanai. Offered at $999,000. Call Michael Burke 239.777.0473

Michael Burke

Lifestyles . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .page 14 Out Of Town Properties . . . . . . . . . .page 15

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

John R. Wood Realtors
26269 South Tamiami Trail Bonita Springs, FL 34134
26269 South Tamiami Trail Bonita Springs, FL 34134

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Your Money
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 trusteeto-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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November 2008

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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 .

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

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BuSINESS
(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
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.
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

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

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 Publishing 1851 Bowler Drive Pickering, Ontario L1V3E5 Canada Fax: 1-800-330-5709 E-mail:[email protected]

1851 Bowler Drive PICKERING, ON L1V3E5 One Townline Circle ROCHESTER, NY14623
E-mail: [email protected] Websites: www.Sunshine-Publishing.com Call or Fax Toll Free: www.SunshinePublishing.ca 1-800-330-5709 www.HomesNewspaper.com Sunshine Publishing produces monthly publications featuring familyvalue 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 noninsertion 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.

November 2008

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Health & Wellness
TEN WAyS TO GIvE yOuRSELF A BREAK
(NC)—Small indulgences are worth the money when they reduce unhealthy stress levels by bringing peace of mind or some muchneeded 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 oneoff 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 at 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 timesaving ideas, can be found online at www.homebasics.ca.

Women Struggle to Shrink Bloated Bodies
(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. 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. 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.” 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.

Keeping Kids Healthy Through Cold Season
(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 uncovered 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 children won’t eat breakfast, offer milk or 100 percent fruit juice and a multivitamin. 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 organizations, 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.

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

Fitness Tip
“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.

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Recipes Of The Month
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

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November 2008

More Recipes on Page 2

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.

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.

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.

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5

26269 South Tamiami Trail Bonita Springs, FL 34134

D. Michael Burke P.A. 239.777.0473 [email protected]
C.4396 - Cozy, spacious, 2 Bed, 2 bath second floor, Coach home with 1480 under air, 1630 total sq. ft. One of the few units available with a landscaped view. Tile floor, dramatic high ceilings, ceiling fans. Golf, amenities and clubhouse included in monthly fee. Offered at $225,000.

C.4587 Great location, 2bed/2bath, 1393 sf Condo West of 41 in North Naples. Tile thru-out main living areas & lanai, decorative kitchen backsplash & accented tile in hallway. Living room w/vaulted ceiling leading to the comfortable lanai w/serene view of a beautiful lake and large trees. Offered at $199,000.

The Retreat, Naples

Fountain Lakes , Estero

Call Michael 239-777-0473 H.3518 3+Den, 2 bath, 2100 under air, 3226 total sf. Great family home on a back street with no through traffic. Open floor plan w/tile & crown molding in main living areas, archways & high ceilings throughout. Kitchen w/breakfast nook, 42" cabinets w/crown molding opening to the large greatroom w/sliders leading out to the lanai w/built-in kitchen. Offered at $299,000. Call Michael 239-777-0473

Call Michael 239-777-0473

Bonita Golf Club, Bonita Springs

The Dash Poem
by Linda Ellis I read of a man who stood to speak At the funeral of a friend. He referred to the dates on her tombstone From the beginning… to the end. He noted that first came the date of her birth And he spoke the following date with tears, But he said what mattered most of all Was the dash between those years. For that dash represents all the time That she spent alive on earth. And now only those who loved her Know 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 love And 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 enough To consider what's true and real And always try to understand The way other people feel. And be less quick to anger, And show appreciation more And love the people in our lives Like we've never loved before. If we treat each other with respect, And more often wear a smile Remembering that this special dash Might only last a little while.

Lee County Leads Upward Trend in Florida Home Sales
continued from page 1

with CNBC, the economist Richard Dekaser recently referred to the real estate market in neighboring Naples as "slightly undervalued." According to the Burke, "Seventy-one percent of all closed sales are under $500,000, with 36 percent under $250,000. As a result, buyers are rightly coming to the conclusion that now is a great time to get a good deal." Additionally, Burke notes, sellers who price their homes competitively benefit the most from the increase in sales. "I have noticed that the sellers who are pricing their houses in the lower 20 percent are the ones most likely to sell. The sellers who are staying in the front of the market with price reductions, rather than chasing the market down, are the ones with the most success."

The lower pricing scheme is anticipated to bring even more buyers to Lee and Collier Counties, which in turn will result in more sales. "Nothing attracts buyers like the promise of a good deal," Burke says. "Therefore, price will remain the key to successful selling as the market continues to stabilize." Pricing a house on the low end of the market can be a tough pill to swallow, but it's essentially the same principle used when the market is thriving, Burke notes. "If it is logical to price just ahead of the market when prices are rising, it's also logical to price just ahead of the market when prices are falling. The sellers who have accepted this and who are priced at the lower end of the spectrum of the market are the ones selling."

~~~
FAMILY WEALTH PROTECTION AND GROWTH STRATEGY
Do You Have One?

So, when your eulogy is being read With your life's actions to rehash Would you be proud of the things they say About how you spent your dash?

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

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Family Life
TIPS TO HELP CHILDREN WITH THEIR HOMEWORK
learning 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 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. determine the underlying cause. Even a child who is doing well can benefit from supplemental assistance to sharpen study and test-taking skills. For additional educational resources for children in grades pre-K through 12, visit www. Tutoring.SylvanLearning.com or call 1-800-31-SUCCESS.

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November 2008

(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

Assessing the Needs of Aging Parents
(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.

Tips to Keep your Pet Calm During Holiday Celebrations
(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. • 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

November 2008

Fun & Games Did You Know
Dot To Dot

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Connect the Dots and see what you find

A cockroach’s favorite food is the glue on envelopes Wuzzle

CROSSWORD

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 Answers on page 14 is meant to represent.

What’s a wuzzle you ask?

SUDOKU
How Do I Do It?
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?

Compliments of www.WuzzlesandPuzzles.com

Across
1- Attitude 5- Actress Merrill 9- Chilled 13- Nicholas Gage book 15- As previously given, in footnotes 16- Et ____ (and other men 17- Toss, as one’s cookies? 18- Rejection power 19- Vichyssoise ingredient 20- Male sheep 21- Melody 23- Do ruinous damage 25- Go downhill fast? 26- Greek goddess of the moon 27- Restless 30- Suffix with Capri 31- Pertaining to the small intestine 32- Inflammation of bone 37- Pillar 38- Lout 40- Writing table 41- Capital of Chile 43- Turkish palace 44- Broke bread 45- Mental strain 47- Puma 50- Part of Q.E.D 51- Blackfish

52- Goneril’s father 53- Printer’s measures 56- Word that can precede war, biotic and climax 57- ___ monde 59- Hawk’s nest: va 61- Christmas 62- Diarist Frank 63- 4th letter of the Greek alphabet 64- Withered 65- ___-do-well 66- Tennis units

Down
1- Look 2- Gymnast Korbut 3- Appear 4- Naval rank, briefly 5- Separate 6- Brain wave 7- Open mesh fabric 8- A little cupid 9- Have a cow? 10- New York city 11- Feudal vassal 12- Embankment 14- Sloping letter 22- Accelerate 24- Sheltered, nautically

Answers on page 14
Compliments of sudokucollection.com

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8

Your Newspaper
H.3623 - 3 Bed+Den, 3 bath, 2446 under air, 4046 total sq. ft Courtyard home w/captivating views. Blinds, 18" tile on diagonal, tray ceiling w/crown molding, rope lighting, state-of-the-art kitchen. Great room w/wall-wall sliders leading to lanai's brick pavers & built-in pool/spa w/expansive lake & fountain views beyond. Offered at $549,000. Call Michael 239-777-0473 H.2168 3+Den, 3 bath Mediterranean style great room open floor plan, with 2481 under air and 3282 total sq ft. Coffered, volume ceilings, gourmet kitchen with granite counter-tops, and upgraded tile. Home offered at $519,000 with a beautiful lake view located in a private gated golfing community

Grandézza, Estero

Cell: 239-777-0473 Fax: 866-890-4452 26269 South Tamiami Trail Bonita Springs, FL 34134 [email protected]

Michael SW Florida ’s Lux
H.3116 3 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 at $1,050,000. Call Michael 239-777-0473

239-777-0473 / Michae

Grandézza, Estero

Grandézza, Estero

Call Michael 239-777-0473

Lighthouse Bay at the Brooks, Bonita Springs

C.4399 - Second floor end unit Garden Home, 2 Bed+Den, 2 with 1402 under air, 1516 total sq. ft, with lake view. Numerous upgrades. Plantation shutters, ceramic tile, beautiful custom mural in kitchen and glass paneled cabinets. Offered Turnkey at $239,000.

Grandézza, Estero

C.4557 Beautifully furnished, designer decorated 3 Bed/2 bath, 1727 sf. Numerous upgrades, stunning vaulted ceilings, decorative niches & ledges throughout. Diagonal tile & accented mosaic tile in foyer & hallway, window treatments, decorative wall paper & paint. Kitchen cabinets w/crown molding, breakfast bar & nook w/fantastic views of the lake. Offered at $299,000. Call Michael 239-777-0473

Call Michael 239-777-0473 C.4675 - 8th floor, 3 bed, 3.5 bath

The Colony - Palermo, Bonita Springs 3240 under air, 4110 total sf.
Spectacular panoramic views of the Gulf of Mexico & Estero Bay. Exquisite turnkey designer decorated, marble flooring & counter-tops, faux finishes, custom cabinetry, kitchen w/builtin paneled appliances, granite countertops. Offered at $1,395,000. Call Michael 239-777-0473

Shadow Wood at the Brooks, Bonita Springs

H.3582 3 Bed+Den, 3.5 Bath, 3014 under air, 5693 total sf Courtyard home w/beautiful expansive views of lake, golf course & woods. Numerous upgrades thru-out, crown molding, plantation shutters, tile, hardwood floors, custom built-ins, Bose surround sound. Stunning gourmet kitchen, w/granite countertops, 42" cherry cabinets w/crown molding, decorative tile. Offered at $849,000. Call Michael 239-777-0473 C.3597 - 4 Bed + Den, 3 bath, 3565 under air, 5524 total sq. ft spacious estate home. Great 2nd floor bonus room can be used as 4th bedroom, exercise or game room. Numerous upgrades. Expansive kitchen w/crown molding, built-in wall oven. Lanai w/built-in heated pool. Offered at $449,000.

Grandézza, Estero

H.2605 Valencia model with 4 Bed+Den, 3 bath, with 2750 under air and 3673 total sq ft. Home offers beautiful views of the golf course, lake and water feature with a desirable South West exposure, located in a private gated golfing community. This beautiful designer furnished home is offered at $849,000 with builtin pool, spa and vaulted ceilings. Call Michael 239-777-0473

Stoneybrook, Estero

Call Michael 239-777-0473

Grandézza, Estero

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

Grandézza, Estero

Call Michael 239-777-0473

H.3544 4 Bed, 3 Bath, 2910 under air, 5887 total sf, side entry 3-car garage. Numerous upgrades thruout, 18x18 marble and Bamboo hardwood flooring, custom builtin cabinets, surround sound, builtin heated pool/spa. Fabulous gourmet kitchen, w/granite countertops and backsplash, 42" custom cabinets w/crown molding, paneled built-in appliances. Offered at $899,000 . Call Michael 239-777-0473

Visit www.CoconutPointRealty.com for Additional Pictures of These & Other SW

Website owned and maintained by Michael Burke of J

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C4121 2 Bed + Den, 2 bath, 2-car attached garage, 2060 under air, 2790 total sf. Carriage home stylishly decorated w/ceramic tile on diagonal, solid surface counter tops, tall kitchen cabinets, wet bar. Fantastic lake views from most rooms. Offered at $418,500. Michael Burke

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Shadow Wood at the Brooks, Bonita Springs

l Burke, xury Home Expert
H.3112 3 Bed+Den, 2.5 bath, 2483 under air, 4357 total sq ft. Ceramic tile in main living areas, high ceilings, archways throughout. Kitchen w/granite counters, raised cabinets & crown molding, stateof-the- art stainless appliances, attractive curved breakfast bar overlooking Nook & Great Room. Lanai w/heated pool/spa, built-in flower beds w/private serene view of wooded area at $569,000 Call Michael 239-777-0473 C.4581 2 bed+Den/2 bath, 1727 sf., furnished carriage home in private, gated golfing community. Vaulted ceilings, tile in main living areas, carpet. Comfortable living room w/fantastic view of the lake & golf course. Centrally located community, within minutes from airport, FGCU, new shopping centers, fine & casual dining. Offered at $249,000 furnished. Call Michael 239-777-0473 H.3414 Open floor plan 3 bed/2 bath, 1638 under air, 2347 total sf. Dramatic high ceilings, plantation shutters, 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/large sliders leading out to the lanai w/fantastic views of private wooded area. Offered at $365,000 Call Michael 239-777-0473 C.4356 Bed+Den, 4.5 bath, 4068 under air, 4988 total sf. decorator ready residence in an exclusive community w/panoramic views of the Gulf & Bay. Private elevator, vestibule, tray ceilings/crown molding. Kitchen w/built-in stainless appliances, granite countertops, custom 42" cabinets. Master suite w/private entry to terrace & marble baths. Offered at $1,265,000.00 Call Michael 239-777-0473 L.680 Build your own custom estate home on this large lot on the 10th fairway in this exclusive golfing community, w/two golf courses designed by Nicklaus & Player. Private Community offers miles of scenic walking trails, biking paths, parks gardens, 47,000 sf clubhouse, Har-Tru tennis courts, fitness club, dining and has hosted the ACE Group Classic & PGA Champions Tour! Offered at $149,000. Call Michael 239-777-0473

[email protected]

Call Michael 239-777-0473 C.4252 3 bed, 3 bath, 2910 under air, 3530 total sf. 17th floor decorator ready residence w/ Gulf & Bay views. Exquisite granite counter-tops, custom wood cabinets, marble baths, private elevator, & stunning high ceilings. Located in an upscale private, gated community w/the finest amenities, included. Offered at $895,000

Grandézza, Estero

The Colony - Palermo , Bonita Springs

Call Michael 239-777-0473

Grandézza, Estero

C.3595 - 3 Bed, 2 bath, 2190 under air, 3236 total sq. ft open great room floor plan. Open kitchen w/granite counters, upgraded cabinets. Plantation shutters, decorative ceiling fans, 12' ceilings, living room w/stunning full wall of glass sliders leading out to the tropical lanai w/heated builtin pool and spa. Offered at $495,000. Call Michael 239-777-0473

Grandézza, Estero

Savona, Estero

H.3298 4+Den, 4.5 bath, 3-car, 5196, 8916 total sf, custom estate home. Arches, columns, volume ceilings w/ triple trays, crown molding, coffered ceilings. Gourmet kitchen w/ built-in stainless appliances, decorative range hood, granite counter-tops. Lanai w/columns, custom pool/ spa, waterfalls, fountains, sunning shelf, gazebo w/fire pit & fireplace Offered at $2,150,000. Call Michael 239-777-0473 C.3636 - 3 bed, 2 baths, 1489 under air, 1733 total sq. ft. top floor unit w/fantastic lake views. Mediterranean architecture in this upscale, urban living condo only steps from shopping, dining & movie theatres. Included w/granite, marble countertops, ceramic tile, hurricane impact windows. All this for $528,888.

Shadow Wood at the Brooks, Bonita Springs

The Colony - LaScala , Bonita Springs

Residences at Coconut Point, Bonita Springs

Call Michael 239-777-0473

Twin Eagles-Hedgestone, Naples

H.2908 Spectacular open great room floor plan, with 3 Bed+Den, 3 bath, 2939 under air, 3925 total sq ft. Many added touches in this designer decorated home for a casual lifestyle with custom features throughout. Enjoy the kitchen w/state-of-the-art built-in appliances, 42" wood cabinetry, granite counter tops. Offered at $1,199,000 w/custom pool w/views of a lake, golf course and woods located in a private gated community. Call Michael 239-777-0473

Grandézza, Estero

W Florida Homes or Call Michael Burke 239-777-0473 for Additional Information

John R. Wood REALTORS, Bonita Springs, FL 34134

Page 0

(NUI) - The holidays mean gettogethers, 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 cleaning tips for a sparkling clean and welcoming holiday home. Tackle the shared living space: • Remove couches and create more big game or movie. clutter from chairs, end tables. This will seating to watch the your favorite holiday

MaKe ROOM FOR HOLIdaY Fun
dinner.

Home & Garden
• 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 driedon 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 homecleaning 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

Your Newspaper

November 2008

Indoor Landscaping for Natural Home Touches

• 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

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.

• 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.

TO OW H NER OR C
Things you’ll Need:
• several small plant pots or trays • • • • plant soil fertilizer watering can windowsill

HOW TO GROW HERBS INDOORS
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 2 Avoid 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 3 Some 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 4 Group 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 5 As 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.

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

November 2008

Your Newspaper

Page 

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 to home may not realize that golf travel should involve is in proper order. packing a few extra things “Traveling with golf that can make or break a fun equipment can be getaway.” straightforward and stressfree, as long as you take a Arriving at your destination few minutes to check your with damaged clubs is equipment and find out enough to ruin a holiday. whether you are missing any To avoid damage, protect key items,” says Barry Wallis, your clubs with a purposeManager of Golf Education built golf travel bag, like at Callaway Golf. “Golfers Callaway’s X Tour Cart Golf accustomed to playing close Bag Carrier, which features

Travel & Automotive
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 lose. Before you leave home, loss or theft of your travel take at least two photocopies documents. Resort specialist, of your passport, air tickets, 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 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.

GREENER CAR OPTIONS GAINING POPuLARITy AMONG NEW CAR OWNERS
(NC) – E nv i r o n m e n t a 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: 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; 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; 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; 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 • Hybrid Technology: low speeds. Batteries do by combining an internal not require plugging in and combustion engine with an are recharged by harnessing • 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;

Y NN D FU OA S R GN SI

• Gasoline and diesel direct injection uses sophisticated • Variable valve timing electronic fuel-flow and air and lift improves the flow flow controls, and precision of fuel and air during the injectors which inject the engine cycle by varying the fuel directly into the cylinder opening and closing of the and optimize the ideal engine valves depending on mixture of air and fuel during need. The technology can combustion; result in both greater power and better fuel efficiency; • Continuously Variable Transmission or CVTs don’t • Cylinder deactivation have a gearbox with a set allows V-6 and V-8 engines number of gears, instead they to operate as though they typically operate on a pulley

Page 2

Recipes Of The Month
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)

Your Newspaper

November 2008

More Recipes on Page  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.

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.

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.

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.

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13

26269 South Tamiami Trail Bonita Springs, FL 34134

D. Michael Burke P.A. 239.777.0473 [email protected]
Recent Closings for the Greater Coconut Point Area - 9/15/2008 to 10/15/2008
Bed Rooms 3+Den 3 Bed 3+Den 3 Bed 3 Bed 3 Bed 3 Bed 2+Den 2+Den 2+Den 2+Den 4+Den 3 Bed 3 Bed 3 Bed 2+Den 3 Bed 3 Bed 3+Den 3 Bed 3+Den 4+Den 3+Den 3+Den Full Bath 3 2 2 2 2 2 3 2 2 2 2 3 2 2 3 2 3 3 3 3 3 4 3 3 Half Living Bath Area 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 1 0 0 2090 1844 2580 2040 1982 2000 2000 1558 1558 2150 1875 3021 1800 1657 2642 1808 2818 1791 3099 2086 2873 4124 2503 2685 Year Private Built Pool 2001 2002 2001 2004 2001 2000 2001 2001 1998 2002 2003 2002 2004 1994 1995 1997 2001 2006 2004 2007 2006 2006 2002 2002 Yes Yes Yes No Yes Yes Yes No No No Yes Yes Yes No Yes No No No No No No Yes No No Private Spa Yes No No No No No No No No No No Yes Yes No Yes No No No No No No Yes No No List Price $529,500 $329,900 $750,000 $375,000 $469,000 $535,000 $475,000 $295,900 $315,000 $325,000 $424,900 $975,000 $399,900 $309,000 $699,900 $299,900 $849,000 $659,900 $899,900 $845,000 $699,000 $2,750,000 $699,000 $795,000 Selling Price $499,000 $300,000 $715,000 $350,000 $435,000 $495,000 $460,000 $285,000 $280,000 $310,000 $395,000 $700,000 $375,000 $236,000 $620,000 $275,000 $700,000 $580,000 $899,900 $775,000 $655,000 $2,200,000 $610,000 $742,500 Cost/ Sq. Ft. $239 $163 $277 $172 $219 $248 $230 $183 $180 $144 $211 $232 $208 $142 $235 $152 $248 $324 $290 $372 $228 $533 $244 $277 % of Asking 94.24% 90.94% 95.33% 93.33% 92.75% 92.52% 96.84% 96.32% 88.89% 95.38% 92.96% 71.79% 93.77% 76.38% 88.58% 91.70% 82.45% 87.89% 100.00% 91.72% 93.71% 80.00% 87.27% 93.40% Closed Date 09/18/08 10/03/08 10/08/08 09/30/08 09/30/08 09/29/08 09/19/08 09/24/08 09/16/08 10/10/08 10/09/08 10/07/08 09/15/08 10/03/08 09/29/08 09/19/08 10/10/08 10/01/08 09/17/08 09/15/08 10/02/08 09/25/08 09/18/08 09/16/08 DOM 106 109 72 85 231 334 143 140 244 488 175 482 208 261 258 87 257 154 282 555 231 336 302

Community Address COPPERLEAF AT THE BROOKS Sage Meadow 23320 Copperleaf Blvd LIGHTHOUSE BAY AT THE BROOKS Lighthouse Bay 23931 Amalfi Coast Rd #113 SHADOW WOOD AT THE BROOKS Tamarind Trace 23163 Foxberry Ln Oak Hammock II 10492 Autumn Breeze Dr #202 Laurel Meadow 23224 Oakglen Ln Oak Strand 9255 Oak Strand DR Laurel Meadow 23132 Oakglen Ln SPRING RUN AT THE BROOKS Winding Stream 9231 Spring Run Blvd, #2109 Streamside 9060 Spring Run Blvd, #209 GRANDEZZA Oakwood 20220 Calice Ct, #304 Saraceno 20121 Saraceno Dr Cypress Cove 20088 Buttermere Ct Cypress Cove 20088 Seadale Ct PELICAN LANDING Reserve at Pelica Landing 24420 Reserve Ct #103 Pelica Landing 3551 Lakemont Dr. Southbridge 25071 Ballycastle Ct W #103 THE COLONY Sorrento 23650 ViaVeneto Blvd, #2101 Navona at the Colony 23540 ViaVeneto Blvd, #1904 Treviso at the Colony 23750 Viatrevi Way #304 Florencia 23850 Viaitalia Cir #2004 MEDITERRA Brendisi 29101 Brendisi WAY, #202 Cortile 10834 Est Cortile Ct Monterosso 15505 Monterosso Ln, #101 Monterosso 15536 Monterosso Ln, #201

To view more closed details visit www.CoconutPointRealty.com and click on Market Reports
This 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

Nov./Dec. Events 2008
Jazz Jams: (Bonita Springs) Nov 20, 6-9pm. Enjoy smooth sounds of local Cahlua & Cream in the center courtyard of The Promenade. Estero Fine Art Show: (Estero) Nov 15, 10am-5pm & 16, 11am-5pm. Artist from around the country & Canada exhibit/sell their art works, plus live entertainment thru-out the weekend. Located at the southest side of Miromar Mall at 10801 Corkscrew Rd. Cost: Free. Germain Arena: (Estero) (239) 948-7825 or visit www.GermainArena.com for Everblades tickets & other shows. Holiday House at the Edison & Ford Winter Estates: (Ft Myers) Nov 30 - Dec 31 (closed Christmas Eve). Located at 2350 McGregor Blvd. Featuring wonderful decorations throughout the Estates, art/craft exhibits, book signings, demonstrations, music & dance performances. For further information call 239 334-7419 or visit www.edisonford-estate.com. Holiday Pottery Sale: (Ft Myers) First week December. Exhibition & sales local pottery & other crafts at Florida Gulf

Bonita Springs, Estero, Ft. Myers, Naples downtown Naples, 5th Ave. Annual celebration, paintings, sculptures & crafts of local artists, complete w/food booths & live musicians. For more information call 239 472-3755. Historic Old Naples Walking Tours: (Naples) Nov 5, 12, 19 & 26/Dec 3, 10, 17, 24 & 31, 10am at Palm Cottage 137 12th Ave. South, 261-8164 (reservations required) 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 & other entertainment. Farmers Market: (Naples) Nov 15, 22 & 29/Dec 6, 13, 20 & 27. 7:30am-11:30am Featuring nearly 50 vendors. Located behind Tommy Bahamas. Naples Trolley Tours: (Naples) 1010 Sixth Ave. S, 262-7300. See the town & shop from quaint trolleys. Philharmonic Center: (Naples) Located at 5833 Pelican Bay. For more info and current shows visit www.philtickets.org/tickets/ind ex.aspx or call (239) 597-1900 or (800) 597-1900

Important "239" Numbers
EMERGENCY - Police, Fire, Medical: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .911 Lee County Ambulance (Non Emergency) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .335-1600 Lee County Sheriff (Non Emergency) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .477-1200 Lee County Emergency Management (Weather & Disaster Spills) . . .477-3600 Poison Control Center . . . .800-282-3171 Hospitals: North Collier Hospital . . . . . . .513-7000 Health Park Hospital . . . . . . . .433-7799 Chamber of Commerce (Local Area): Bonita Springs Area . . . . . . . . .992-2943 Estero Area . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .948-7990 Library (Local Area): Bonita Public Library . . . . . . .992-1043 Estero South County Regional Library . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .390-3200 License (Lee County): Animal License . . . . . . . . . . . .432-2083 Boat Registration/Fishing License . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .339-6000 Drivers License . . . . . . . . . . . .278-7192 Vehicle Registration - Lee County . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .339-6000 Voters Registration . . . . . . . . .339-6300 Medical (Lee & Collier Counties): Gulf Coast Hospital - Ft. Myers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .768-5000 Lee Memorial Hospital - Ft. Myers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .332-1111 North Collier Hospital (NCH) - Downtown Naples . . . . . . . . .552-7000 North Collier Hospital (NCH) - North Naples . . . . . . . . . . . . .436-5000 Poison Control Center . . . .800-282-3171 Newspaper: Bonita Banner . . . . . . . . . . . . .765-0110 Coconut Point Press . . . . . . . . .777-0473 Ft. Myers News Press . . . . . . .335-0233 Naples Daily News . . . . . . . . .992-3609 Public Schools (Lee County): Edison Community College . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .800-749-2322 Florida Gulf Coast University . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .800-590-3428 School District of Lee County . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .334-1102 Real Estate Services: Michael Burke P.A., John R. Wood Realtors . . . . . .777-0473 Homestead Exemption - Lee County . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .339-6120 Property Appraiser - Lee County . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .339-6100 Social Security . . . . . . . . 800-772-1213 Southwest Florida Int'l Airport . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .590-4800 Transportation: Airport Shuttle Service . . . . . .216-7777 Greyhound . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .334-1011 Lee County Bus Transit . . . . . .533-8726 U.S. Postal Service (Lee & Collier Counties) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .800-275-8777 Utilities (Lee County): Embarq . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .866-304-6820 Electric - Florida Power and Light . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .800-262-1322 Florida Recycling & Waste . . .332-8500 Gas Service - Teco (Peoples Gas) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .877-932-6747 Solid Waste - Lee County . . . .338-3302 Telephone - Sprint (Bonita) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .800-699-0728 Telephone - Sprint (Lee County) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .800-339-1811 TV Cable - Comcast . . . . .800-432-4770 TV Cable - Time Warner . . . . .574-2020 Water/Sewer - Bonita Springs .992-0711 Water/Sewer - Unincorporated Lee County . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .800-485-0214 Veterinarians Florida Veterinary 24-Hour Emergency . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .239-992-8878

Coast University. For more information call 239 263-8242. Broadway Palm Dinner Theater: (Ft. Myers) Located at 1380 Colonial Blvd. For more info & shows visit www.broadwaypalm.com/home .htm or call (239) 278-4422 Barbara B. Mann Theatre: (Ft. Myers) For more info & listing of shows, visit, www.bbmannpah .com/index.php or call (239) 481-4849 or 800-440-7469. Old Florida Festival: (Naples) Nov 1, 2. Indoor/outdoor festival celebrating history of Florida. Complete w/pirates, conquerors & early settlers. Refreshments & live entertainment. For further information call 239 774-8476. Festival of Lights: (Naples) Nov 24, 5-9pm. Third Street South welcomes 32nd annual tree lighting ceremony w/community & national entertainment, snow & shopping. Celebration of Lights: (Naples) Nov 25, 26, 28 & 29, 6-9pm. Third Street South continues to entertainment w/music & snow each night. New Years Weekend Art Fair: (Naples) Last week in December in

Mess Be Gone
Your Personal and Professional Organizer With Mess Be Gone you will say, "Goodbye to the Mess!" Home or Office
Also specializing in Relocation and Consiergee services

Call today to set up your consultation

(239) 913-8632

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

Page 

Lifestyles
HOW TO TAKE CONTROL
being 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. of yourself, your team or your family. Rather give everyone - including yourself - the direction, resources and most importantly the time, to achieve goals. 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

Your Newspaper

November 2008

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 ‘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 Missions impossible are system too! Here’s a tip Stop being a ‘busy body’: always impossible: Stop that might change your life. Don’t flatter yourself that asking the almost impossible Before entering the office

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.

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!

Thoughts to Ponder:

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

Laws of the Universe:
Law of Mechanical Repair:

Sudoku Answer

PUzzle SOlUtIOnS
Crossword Answer

Why Dogs Bite People!

Wuzzle Answers
1. Falling Temperature 2. Two Under Par 3. Fat Chance 4. Broken Heart 5. Hot Under the Collar 6. Head in the Sand

November 2008

Your Newspaper

Page 

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

1-800-330-5709
1 Chestermere, Alberta $1,150,000.00 2 Naples, Florida $1,099,950 3 Bancroft, Ontario $649,900

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.

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.

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.

4

Bonita Springs, Florida $1,050,000

5

Wasaga Beach, Ontario $439,900

6

Chestermere, Alberta $749,000

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.

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.

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.

7

Lake Bonivista, Alberta $263,000

8

Brampton, Ontario $569,900

9

Toronto, Ontario $369,900

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.

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.

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

10

Naples, Florida $1,099,000

11

Vancouver , Britsh Columbia $1,899,000

12

Bonita Springs, Florida $849,000

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.

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!

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.

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

239-948-1147 McClain Home Inspection, LLC lifestyles
& Home Watch Service
Home Inspections from $199.00 • Home Watch Service from $20.00/mo. Web Site: www.grmcclain.com Email: [email protected] Certified Home Inspector
C H I R O P R A C T I C

Dr. Todd E. Wickmann Chiropractic Physician Certified Chiropractic Sports Physician Certified Athletic Trainer Titleist Performance Institute Certified
1 2

Whole Body • Whole Family Whole Life

So you can enjoy your pool!

11300 Lindbergh Blvd., Suite #107 Fort Myers, FL 33913 239.334.9355 Fax: 239.334.9358 [email protected] www.lifestyleschiro.com

1. Golf Examination 2. Golf Exam and Exercise to Go 3. Exam and In-office Exercise Instruction

$25.00 OFF EXAM!
Present at time of service

MONDAY Ladies Day
10,000 Arcos Ave. Estero, Florida 33928 (239) 949-6031

All Ladies Receive $5.00 Off
(#3, #4, OR #5 WASH PACKAGE)

WEDNESDAY THURSDAY

COLLEGE DAY

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

Pool.Servce Unlimited Phone: 239.592.5539
www.pool-service-unlimited.com

Any Wash Package
Not valid with any other offers or promotions Coupon Expires 8/31/2008

$3.00 Off

with this Ad

MANLY DAY

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

Visit our Website: www. Café-Bonaparte.com

Michael Burke, SW Florida ’s Luxury Home Expert
239-777-0473 / [email protected] www.CoconutPointRealty.com
Website owned and maintained by Michael Burke of John R. Wood REALTORS, Bonita Springs, FL 34134