coconut point press january february 2010

January | February | 2010 | 1

Wow, can you believe that 2009 is over? And what a great year for the real estate market, too! We've seen some strong growth in the last year, and some noteworthy records have been set. Everything seems to be trending upward: Sales numbers, prices, and consumer confidence are all on the rise, and industry experts are predicting interest rates to up in 2010, too. My point is, now is a great time to buy or sell a home. We're in a much better place with the real estate market now than we were a year ago: The number of sales rose from month to month almost all year long, so the market is the strongest now that it's been in a while, inspiring confidence in buyers and sellers alike. And although prices have remained low throughout 2009, meaning there were some really good deals to be had for buyers, toward the end of the year prices were showing signs

of rising nationwide. To demonstrate how much the number of home sales rose in 2009, consider that the Florida Association of Realtors has reported a 61 percent rise in sales between November 2008 and November 2009, while condo sales more than doubled with an 111 percent rise! The trend was pretty steady all year long, too, with sales increasing over the previous month nearly every month in 2009. Some months were pretty spectacular, too – for instance, in October closed sales increased more than 10 percent over September's numbers. People are beginning to sit up and take note of the improved performance in the real estate market. According to the bellwether survey performed by the University of Michigan, consumer confidence rose 7.5 percent just in December. The other indicator

of consumer confidence is how many more buyers are entering the market – they wouldn't be snatching up homes so eagerly if they didn't believe that the market had stabilized and was on the mend. Unfortunately, however, market statistics such as sales numbers and prices aren't the only things that will be rising in 2010. Mortgage rates, which were just below 5 percent in early December, finished off the year

at just over 5. Many experts, and even major players in the industry such as Freddie Mac, project that rates will rise to around 6 percent or more over the course of the next year. While the rise in mortgage rates certainly isn't good news for those planning on buying a home – or even selling, since it will affect your buyer's ability to find affordable financing – it isn't terribly bad news either. It simply means that if you are thinking of buying or selling your home, you may have to act more quickly than you had initially planned. The sooner you list your home on the market or start looking for a home to buy, the lower the interest rates will be when it comes time to lock them in. We're starting off 2010 on a better foot than almost anyone could have dreamed a year ago, when the beginning of the year

had a much more dismal outlook. It doesn't mean that you can sit back, relax, and take your time, however. As the real estate market improves, the dynamics will change. As prices go up, you may lose the ability to get as quick a sale (as a seller) or as good a deal (as a buyer) on your home; and as interest rates go up and financing options become a little more pricey, it could affect your chances of closing the deal. Buying or selling a home takes a lot of finesse, as there is a lot of timing involved in tracking trends and using those to list a property or make an offer on a house. If you are interested how current market trends are likely to affect your decision to sell or purchase a home, please feel free to give me a call. I have extensive knowledge and experience with the local markets and trends, which I am happy to discuss with you!

November | December | 2009 | 1

D. Michael Burke, p.a.Estero /Bonita Springs/Naples

Luxury Real Estate Expert

offered by: D. MIchAEL BURkE, P.A., REALTOR®

EstEro | Bonita springs | naplEs

.com

JANUARY | FEBRUARY 2010

To have Your Home Featured In the Next Issue Call D. Michael Burke, P.A. 239.498.7600

Website owned and maintained by Michael Burke of Keller Williams Elite Realty, Bonita Springs, FL 34134

PRSRT STD.U.S. POSTAGE

PAIDFT MYERS, FL

PERMIT NO 815

www.CoconutPointRealEstate.com

Keller WIllIAMs elITe reAlTY24851 South Tamiami Trail, Suite 1Bonita Springs, FL 34134

FEATURED PROPERTY

To:

6066 Rising above the tranquil shores of Estero Bay Estuary, LaScala rewards you with world class amenities and a lifestyle that is graciously sophisticated, yet unpretentious. Imagine coming home to Residence #404-a one-of-a-kind jewel designed by an artist whose vision and passion for detail is masterful. This 4,260 sf under air, 5140 total sf, 3 bedroom+den, 3.5 bath hideaway offers a Grand Foyer featuring a hand-painted mural with copper and gold accents. The Living Room welcomes you with inviting, forever view of Estero Bay and the Gulf of Mexico. The trellised ceiling and mirrored wall panels of the formal Dining Room, metallic glass inlays in the Kitchen and Family Room, and carved glass doors in the Den add a visual dimension unlike any you’ve enjoyed before. The Master Bedroom with its European trim and two additional en suite Bedrooms provide family and guest’s desired privacy and sumptuous luxury. This is a “must see” treasure! Offered at $2,095,000.

Sweet Bay in Shadow Wood At The Brooks, Bonita

LaScala - The Colony, Bonita Springs

Looking Up in 2010

2 | January | February | 2010

EstEro | Bonita springs | naplEs

.com

PublisherJoyce Bunting

[email protected]

executive editorD. Michael Burke, P.A.

[email protected]

Assistant editorShelly Burke

[email protected]

street AddressCoconutPointPress.com

26269 South Tamiami TrailBonita Springs, FL 34134

Call 239-949-7427Or visit us on the web at

www.CoconutPointPress.com

Healthy Living Whiplash: Car Optional By Dr. Todd Wickmann, Lifestyle Chiropractic

When they hear the word, “whiplash,” most people immediately picture a rear-end motor vehicle accident. But there are other ways that whiplash injuries can occur, including:

• Assault, such as being punched or shaken• Roller coaster rides• Sports, especially contact sports such as football or boxing• Falls

A whiplash injury occurs when the cervical spine (neck) is stretched beyond its normal range of motion in a forward (flexion), backward (extension) or sideways movement. The discs between the vertebrae, along with their associated muscles, tendons and ligaments can be stretched or torn, resulting in symptoms such as:

• neck pain, stiffness or tenderness• headache• dizziness

• numbness or tingling sensation• muscle spasms• irritability• memory loss• blurred vision• ringing in the ears• back pain • swelling

These symptoms and related pain can show up immediately or up to 72 hours after the impact that caused the whiplash injury. And the pain and discomfort can last for months, even years. An article in the British Journal of Orthopaedic Medicine stated that “chiropractic is the only proven effective treatment in chronic cases” of whiplash injury. The article reported the results of a study in which 26 out of 28 patients with chronic whiplash syndrome benefitted from chiropractic care. The authors also noted that “conventional treatment of patients with whiplash

is disappointing.” The goal of chiropractic care is to return neck joints affected by whiplash to their normal position to relieve stress on affected nerves and strain on affected muscles. For best results, and to avoid the formation of scar tissue and unnecessary pain, you should make an appointment to come in for an examination as soon as possible after a whiplash injury.

Who knew a fun day at the amusement park could result in a whiplash injury?

At Last - A Livable Diet Program Worth Keeping (ARA) - Right about now, the guilt may be setting in. The holidays are one long season of over-indulgence for many of us. More than one holiday binge has led to an extra five or 10 pounds - and a pledge to get healthier in the New Year. Sadly for most Americans, such resolutions are often broken and forgotten by the time Valentine’s Day rolls around. It’s never too late, however, to get back on track with a healthier lifestyle. You can lose the holiday weight - and

guilt - and you just might improve your health and quality of life for the long haul. Mayo clinic, a leading authority on health and nutrition, offers some sensible, livable advice for managing your health and weight in 2010 and beyond. For the first time in its history, Mayo clinic has developed and published a diet. Recommending simple lifestyle changes and requiring no special foods, calculators, or food scales, “The Mayo clinic Diet” is based on a common-sense approach to losing weight and keeping it off. “Many patients I see have tried several diets in an attempt to lose weight, yet the weight keeps coming back,” says Dr. Donald hensrud, a Mayo clinic specialist in preventive and internal medicine, and medical editor-in-chief of the book. “The key to weight loss is to eat well and exercise regularly. Our goal with this book is to give people real tools for doing that.” Dietary advice in the book includes five habits to add to your lifestyle, such as eating unlimited servings of fruits and vegetables each day; five habits to break, like revising the kinds of snacks you eat; and for those who are especially motivated, five “bonus” habits to adopt such as keeping a journal of everything you eat. As one of the foundations of the diet, Mayo clinic also advocates using The Mayo clinic healthy Weight Pyramid that differs from the official USDA pyramid. The Mayo clinic healthy Weight Pyramid focuses on vegetables and fruits as the basis of a healthy diet, followed by progressively lesser amounts of whole grains, small portions of lean protein (the size of a deck of cards) and dairy foods, healthy fats and, finally,

sweets. Exercise also plays an important role in weight loss. While working out is beneficial, so is virtually any elevated level of physical activity, like walking more often, cleaning the house, mowing the lawn or gardening. Whatever moderately intense physical activity you choose, aim to do it 30 to 60 minutes per day most days of the week. To learn more about “The Mayo clinic Diet”, log on to www.mayoclinic.com/diet. Courtesy of ARAcontent

January | February | 2010 | 3January | February | 2010 | 3

cook | koŏk |Twice-Baked Potato Soup

Crisp Vanilla Butter Cookies

Ingredients 1 cup bread crumbs (Japanese

panko)1/4 cup Kellogg’s All-Bran Buds or

Original2 tbsp. lemon zest1 small mild chili, seeds removed,

minced1 tbsp. fresh dill1 tbsp. fresh tarragon1 tbsp. fresh parsley1/4 cup olives minced1 tbsp. unsalted butter (softened)Sea salt and fresh ground black

pepper to taste

Preparation: Preheat the oven to 375F. Toss all the crust ingredients together in a bowl. Line a baking tray with parchment paper. Place the fish on the tray and press the crust onto the fish to coat well. Bake in the oven for 8-15 minutes depending on thickness of fish and doneness desired. The crust should be golden brown and the fish just cooked through. Serve on a tomato and white bean or green salad with good quality olive oil, fresh lemon and basil. Courtesy of News Canada

Ingredients1 cup (2 sticks) butter, softened1 cup sifted confectioners’ sugar1 tablespoon Pure Vanilla Powder2 eggs, lightly beaten2 cups unbleached all-purpose flour1 teaspoon baking powder1/4 teaspoon cinnamon1/4 teaspoon salt1/2 cup chocolate pieces of

choice

Preparation Cream the butter, confectioners’ sugar and vanilla powder in a mixing bowl using an electric mixer on medium speed. Add the eggs and beat until light and fluffy. Beat in the flour, baking powder, cinnamon and salt on low speed until just blended. Place the dough on parchment paper and shape into a 12-inch long log. Chill between 3 to 24 hours. Preheat the oven to 350 F. Coat an insulated cookie sheet with nonstick cooking spray. Cut the dough log into 1/4-inch-thick slices and place on the cookie sheet. Bake for 10 to 12 minutes or until golden brown. Cool on a wire rack. Place the cooled cookies on a parchment-lined cookie sheet. Place the chocolate pieces in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat on “high” for 15 seconds. Repeat at five-second intervals, stirring and checking the consistency. The chocolate is ready when it freely drips from the spoon in a fine line. Spoon the chocolate into a large plastic food storage bag. Twist the bag until the chocolate is in one corner and then trim the tip of the bag. Drizzle the chocolate over the cookies. Variation: Add 1/2 teaspoon of any pure flavor extract, such as chocolate, almond, lemon, orange or coffee, to the cookie dough to create a signature cookie. Courtesy of ARAcontent

239-948-1147McClain Home Inspection, & Home Watch service

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

home Inspections from $199.00 • home Watch Service from $20.00/mo.

verb1 [trans.] prepare (food, a dish, or a meal) by combining and heating the ingredients in various ways. Shall I cook dinner tonight?

By Dr. Todd Wickmann, Lifestyle Chiropractic

Herb Crusted FishRecipe created by one of Canada’s leading chefs, Jason Bangerter, can be used with your favorite fish or seafood.

Ingredients 6 large potatoes 2 tablespoons butter 1 small sweet onion, finely chopped

(about 1/2 cup) 5 cups Chicken Broth 1/4 cup light

cream 1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives Toppers Preparation 1. Heat the oven to 425 F. Prick the potatoes with a fork. Bake for 30 minutes or until the potatoes are tender. Remove the potatoes to a bowl and cover the bowl. Let the potatoes stand for 10 minutes. Remove the skin from the potatoes and mash the pulp. 2. Heat the butter in a 3-quart saucepan. Add the onion and cook until it’s tender. Stir in the broth and 5 cups potato pulp. 3. Place 1/3 of the broth mixture into a blender or food processor. Cover and blend until smooth. Pour the mixture into a medium bowl. Repeat the blending process twice more with the remaining broth mixture. Return all of the puréed mixture to the saucepan. Stir in the cream and chives and cook for 5 minutes or until the mixture is hot. Season as desired. 4. Spoon 1/4 cup remaining potato pulp into each of 8 serving bowls. Divide the broth mixture among the bowls. Serve with one or more Assorted Toppers. Assorted Toppers: Cooked crumbled bacon, shredded Cheddar cheese and/or sour cream. Time-Saving Tip: Microwave the potatoes on HIGH for 10 to 12 minutes or until they’re fork-tender. Courtesy of ARAcontent

Have a recipe you’d like to share?

E-mail it to: [email protected]


aroundtown

FGCU Renaissance Academy Announces Winter/Spring Open House The Renaissance Academy at Florida Gulf coast University announces its winter/spring 2010 schedule of adult lifelong learning programs featuring an extensive and diverse curriculum of more than 350 single lectures and courses. Open house events are scheduled for 1 p.m. to 3 p.m., Saturday, Jan. 16 at the Atrium, 8695 College Parkway, Suite 1181 in Fort Myers; and 1 p.m. to 3 p.m., Sunday, Jan. 17 at the FGCU Naples Center, 1010 5th Avenue South in Naples. The open-house events provide an opportunity for participants to learn more about the Academy, meet instructors, register for courses, and enjoy refreshments. Online registration is available at https://RegisterRA.fgcu.edu where participants may browse and register for courses safely and securely online using a credit card. The Renaissance Academy is committed to the concept that learning should never cease; that keeping

the mind intellectually, creatively and culturally active fundamentally enriches and invigorates lives. Among the Renaissance Academy’s offerings are affordable, non-credit single lectures, short courses, day trips, computer classes, film series, life enrichment classes, writing workshops, travel abroad programs and other special events. There are no exams or grades, just learning for the joy of learning with friends, neighbors and peers. Course fees are typically $25 per lecture, and provide access to Academy programs located at 12 locations throughout collier, Lee and charlotte counties. For more information or a free catalog of offerings, contact The Renaissance Academy at (239) 425-3276. For further information, media representatives should contact director of continuing Education and the Renaissance Academy John Guerra at (239) 434-4838 or [email protected].

January Bonita Springs National Art FestivalBy Meghan Easterly Exceptional artists from the United States and abroad converge at the top rated Bonita Springs National Art Festival which comes to The Promenade at Bonita Bay this month. The Festival, run by the Art League of Bonita Springs, will take place from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, Jan. 16 and 17. The prime focus of this show is quality and originality and features 208 artists from across the United States, Canada and Europe. This juried fine art and fine craft event continues to rank in the top 20 in the nation, offering the highest quality artwork. The event is an exceptional showcase of talent. The artwork is as varied as the artists themselves. Dramatic

oil paintings; breath-taking photography; outstanding bronze sculpture; unique, one-of-a-kind jewelry; whimsical pottery; and sensational glass and wooden artworks are just the beginning. Stroll throughout the show, enjoying the charm and ambience of the beautiful Promenade. This lovely center offers fine shops and restaurants plus wonderful areas to relax and enjoy the tropical surroundings amid soft jazz music. This is the 11th year for the highly successful festival. The outdoor event has consistently received accolades for quality artwork offered in a pleasing venue. Director Barry Witt’s expert planning and hundreds of Art League volunteers have kept things running smoothly through the years and the artists have provided unique, high quality art drawing thousands of visitors to the festival each January. The festival benefits the Art League’s beautiful Center for the Arts campus and its many community-minded programs. An optional $5 donation is requested. Sponsors of this year’s festival are: The Promenade at Bonita Bay, The Lutgert companies, Premier Properties, Bonita Daily News, Bonita Banner, Bonita Living Magazine and bonitasprings.com. January is also a busy month for the Art League’s performance series Live at the Promenade! On Jan 20, The core Ensemble performs “Ain’t I a Woman!” This music theater piece celebrates the life and times of four powerful African American women with the music being drawn from heartfelt spirituals and blues of the Deep South, the urban vitality of the Jazz Age and concert music by African Americans. Tickets are $35 members; $40 nonmembers; and $45 at the door. On Jan. 27, Keith Raygor combines his passion of music and magic in “The Rhythm of Magic.” Tickets are $25 members; $30 nonmembers; and $35 at the door.

Michael Ezzell, “Beneath An Orange Sky”; Mixed Media 3-D; Laguna Beach, Calif.; hand thrown and sculpted ceramic, cathedral glass, steel surfaces, led lights

For a complete listing of Art League programming and events, call 495-8989; visit the Center for the Arts at 26100 Old 41 Road, Bonita Springs; follow on Twitter at www.twitter.com/Artleague; or visit online at www.artcenterbonita.org.

Stephen Fairchild, “Telephone Chair”; Metal; Gainesville Fla.; steel, wood, foam, fabric

Visit The Middles Ages At The Medieval FaireThe Riverdale kiwanis will once again turn Lakes Park into a medieval village January 16th and 17th, 23rd and 24th The faire is open from 9:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. each day. cost is $13 for adults and $6 for children 6 to 12 (group rates are available). Parking is available on site at no cost. Sorry no pets are allowed on site.This year’s fair features: * Jousting by the New Riders of the Golden Age * continuous Entertainment * Live chess Match * Live Sword Fighting * Royal court and Procession

* children's Games and Rides * Jugglers, Magicians, Minstrels * Period Food and Beverages & MEADE! * A multitude of Merchants & Artisans * Medieval Arts and crafts * Medieval clothing and Weapons The quality medieval entertainment provided by Riverdale kiwanis is unsurpassed in authenicity and professionalism. These acts travel the country, and are seen at only the biggest medieval shows. We are truly honored to provide you with the best medieval entertainers available.

Did You Know That In Florida

If an elephant is left tied to a parking meter, the parking fee has to be paid

just as it would for a vehicle.


Get Puzzled

Where the Old World Meets the New World

Brewista Coffee House offers our customers only ¾the finest Coffee available using top quality beans from around the world.Our Teas are imported from England offering a ¾richer and fuller tasting tea. Try our Chai Teas, all natural Fruit Smoothies with ¾no preservatives or additives, Gourmet Cocoa, Incredible Pastries & Desserts and Gourmet Chocolates.We offer FREE WI-FI Service to our customers and ¾for customers joining us outside with their pets we offer free Pet Water bowls and doggy treats.We can cater your meetings for up to 30 guests ¾in our establishment. Please see Shellanne for details.We offer live entertainment on select weekend ¾nights, please look for postings of dates.

Coffee Service•Gourmet Coffee•Pastry Platters•English Teas•Customer Appreciation Card•Gourmet Chocolates•Free WI-FI Service•Chai Teas•Free Pet Water Bowls•Cocoa•Live Entertainment•Smoothies• •

239-495-550010020 Coconut Road, Suite 130, Bonita Springs, FL 34135

Corner of Coconut Rd. & Three Oaks Parkway next to Sweetbay

10% OFF

Your order of $10 or more. Not valid on Merchandise purchases. Cannot be combined with any other offer. One coupon per family. Must be original coupon.

crossword!

Sudoku

Puzzle Answers on page 15

Across1. Used in brewing and distilling5. Female hog8. Desiccated12. Using the voice14. Female sheep15. Dodge16. Building material17. Garland18. Number19. In the news21. Draw back23. Sprocket24. Not in use25. Feline28. Gape30. State of good health35. Nobleman37. Part of the eye39. Ethical40. Song for solo voice41. Relating to birth43. Edible fat44. Express in words46. Conifer47. Exist48. Fatty sausage50. Matured52. Seafarer53. Table game55. Pigeon sound57. Wind instrument61. Mechanical camera part65. Engine66. Ancient Egyptian god68. Cut closely

69. Run away secretly together70. Anger71. Spooky72. Title73. Cutting tool74. Rotary motion Down1. Vertical spar2. Singing voice3. Closed circuit4. Cloak5. Vend6. Be in debt7. Uncanny8. Affirm9. Rant10. Harangue11. Impression in a surface13. Lure15. Admiration20. Once more22. Kind of fairy24. First letter of a word25. Form or grade26. Blood vessel27. Test29. Enclose or enfold31. Sound of a bell32. Personal attribute33. Invertebrate before metamorphosis34. Church officer36. Information38. Made a melodious sound42. Kind of parasite45. Business conglomerate

49. Electrically charged particle51. Wet thoroughly54. Desert haven56. Not the same as already mentioned57. Portent58. Carbonated drink59. Molecule

60. Strong line61. Cook slowly in liquid62. Edible tuberous root63. Malevolent64. Roll of film67. Epoch

Valentines Day Poem - Redneck Style Kudzu is green, My dog’s name is Blue

And I’m so lucky, To have a sweet thang like you.

Yore hair is like cornsilk a-flapping in the breezeSofter than Blue’s and without all them fleas.

You move like the bass, which excite me in May. You ain’t got no scales But I luv you anyway.

A life without love is like a year without summer. - Swedish Proverb


Local Color

Big Cypress Gallery is excited to announce that they will be doing their Winter Swamp Walk again this year!

S W A M P W A L K S February 13-15, 2010

The onset of winter in the Big Cypress creates a unique and different feeling in the swamp than during the summer. The Cypress trees loose their leaves, the bark changes from brown to a pale gray and the trees stand in their naked majesty soaking up the winter sun. The birds return to Florida and flutter about finding mates. On the summer swamp walk we give over Labor Day, it is humid, lush, green and primeval, while our winter swamp walks are cool, sprinkled with green here and there, and filled with the crisp sun light of winter. You will have a guide to lead you into the The Big Cypress Swamp behind the swamp cottage at the Big Cypress Gallery which is a mysterious and secretive environment. There are not many people who brave the difficult swamps and cypress strands in order to understand the beauty and peace found in more than a million acres of swamps and land located in the Everglades eco-system of South Florida. The natural world of Big Cypress Swamp is a richly diverse wilderness of subtropical flora and fauna found nowhere else in our country. Bring your own lunch and enjoy a peaceful picnic under the Cypress trees in Clyde and Niki's backyard before or after

Get Up Close And Personal With The Everglades!And Meet Clyde Butcher, One of America’s Finest Landscape Photographers

“Another winter has come to Big Cypress. The cypress trees are dropping their needles, covering the forest with a carpet of brown. The birds are returning in great quantities bringing with them the rhythm of nature and a sense of familiarity to life that conveys a purpose beyond what mortals understand. I thank God for giving me the pleasure of sharing my backyard with you, in the middle of such a beautiful creation as Big Cypress. I am also thankful to the collectors of my photography for you have given me the financial ability to donate a good portion of my time to environmental education.”

Clyde Butcherwww.clydebutcher.com

your swamp walk. Clyde will welcome you in his gallery for a meet and greet. Space will be very limited due to the small groups sizes. What to wear and bring: wear:

long pants• hat• old tennis shoes • bring a complete change of clothes (we have men’s and • women’s changing rooms)waterproof camera • bring lunch and or snacks•

Clyde and Niki Butcher in their backyard

Get Up Close and Personal With the Everglades on page 7


We will supply you with: a bottle of water after your walk, walking sticks, eco-guide and a great time! Cost $75 per person. This fee includes a $50 gift certificate to use in the Big Cypress Gallery. With every paid adult, one child under 18 is free. Each swamp walk will be about 1 1/2 hour long. The walks will be leaving from the gallery every hour on the hour from 9am - 2pm each day. For questions email [email protected] or call (941) 486-0811. You can also visit www.clydebutcher.com for more information or to make reservations. If you can not make it for our Annual Winter Walks, the Big Cyrpess Gallery is offering for the first time swamp walks every Saturday through March. Walks at 10 am and 2 pm max. Ten people per walk. Reservations required. For more info and to make reservations visit our website or email [email protected]. (239) 695-2428 Cost is $75 per person; this fee includes a $25 gift certificate to use in gallery. Children are $25 each.

Get Up Close and Personal With the Everglades from page 6

It’s Raining ... Iguanas?

Cold Iguanas Free-Fall From TreesIguanas Go Into HibernationState In Cold WeatherReoprinted with permission, courtesy Post-Newsweek (original story at: http://www.justnews.com/news/22152242/detail.html)POSTED: Wednesday, January 6, 2010UPDATED: 3:10 pm EST January 6, 2010 hOLLYWOOD, Fla. -- Record lows across South Florida are literally freezing the invasive iguana in its tracks. kamikaze iguanas, plummeting from their treetop perches, have long been a Floridian urban legend. On Wednesday morning, Local 10 caught the free-falling lizard on tape. Scientists said these seemingly suicidal lizards are a result of South Florida's record cold weather. Iguanas prefer temperatures in the 80s and 90s. With Wednesday morning's temperatures at around 35 degrees, a handful of lifeless lizards hung from branches and fell to the ground. While these iguanas appeared dead, experts said they are not. When temperatures drop below 40 degrees, iguanas go into a type of hibernation in which their bodies essentially turn off, only allowing the heart to pump blood. When the temperature rises above 40 degrees again, the iguanas are revived. "It's almost like they go totally to sleep. Generally speaking, if it warms up afterwards, they can recover," said Ron Magill of Miami Metrozoo. According to Magill, the nonnative lizard was first introduced to Florida by careless pet owners and has become one of the state's most invasive species. While Florida has similar weather to the iguanas' native home of South America, it is clearly not identical. Magill expects most of the iguanas to survive. While the lizards' comatose state provides a perfect opportunity to reign in the invasive species, Magill had a warning. "I knew of a gentleman who was collecting them off the street and throwing them in the back of his station wagon, and all of a sudden these things are coming alive, crawling on his back and almost caused a wreck," Magill said.Copyright 2010 by Post-Newsweek Stations. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed

Even More Local Color

prol [email protected]

PROFESSIONAL CLEANING INC.

• Residential• Commercial

Leslie MaloneyPresidentOfc (239) 992-2226Cell (239) 580-7914

Licensed & Insured

• New Construction• Rental Property

• Water Damage

Pro-Line BC.indd 1 11/13/07 10:45:28 AM

Specialize in Maintenance Contracts


Choose success. Choose Michael.Few real estate agents are as driven as Michael Burke. A member of numerous local real estate committees, this multi-million dollar producer keeps tabs on the local market by staying intimately involved. Whether you are selling or buying, Michael brings to the table strong negotiation skills, state-of-the-art marketing methods, integrity, and the ambition it takes to achieve 100 percent satisfaction. His drive to succeed is tempered only by his understanding of his clients’ needs.

3459. Immaculate turnkey, rarely lived-in 2nd floor, 2 bed, 2 bath, 1,176 under air, 1.392 total sf garden home w/western exposure offering beautiful sunset views. Tile, carpet, window treatments, decorated in neutral tones. Large kitchen/breakfast room & living room w/large slider entrance to screened balcony w/views of an expansive lake & water fountain. Outstanding amenities, clubhouse pool, Har-Tru tennis courts, bocce ball courts, tennis pro, fitness room, great common deck area w/small boats. Offered at $162,000.

Call Michael 239-498-7600.

Lighthouse Bay, Bonita Springs

Visit www.CoconutPointRealEstate.com for Additional Pictures of These and Other SW Florida Homes or Call D. Michael Burke, p.a. 239.498.7600 for Additional Information

Choose Michael Burke as your real estate agent, and sit on the side of suCCess.

2867. 4 Bed, 3 ½ bath, 2,910 under air, 5,079 total sq ft. Beautiful serene lake views, tropical landscaping, nestled on a cul-de-sac. Kitchen, w/stainless built-ins, granite countertops, decorative backsplash tile. Formal living & dining room, family room w/fireplace & built-in. Lanai w/pavers, built-in heated pool/spa w/private entry to master suite. Offered at $699,000.


Bonita Bay, Bonita Springs

Twin Eagles, Naples2918. 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 & has hosted the ACE Group Classic & PGA Champions Tour! Offered at $99,000.


6295. 3 bed+den, 4 bath, 3507 sf under air, 5096 sf total. Featuring the builders custom designs & upgrades thru-out w/variety of tray ceilings, crown molding, custom tile floor, tile inserts, miter windows, hand forged front door, plantation shutters, custom built-ins, designer decorated window treatments. Gourmet kitchen w/stainless built-ins, 6 burner gas stove top, tumbled stone tile backsplash, granite counter-tops. 2 guest suites w/private baths, master suite w/2 large walk-in closets, 4 section tray ceiling w/crown molding, Lanai w/pavers, summer kitchen w/built-in grill, refrigerator, sink. Fireplace & zero edge heated built-in pool w/cascading spa & fountain w/views of the 7th fairway, 2 large lakes & the 6th fairway beyond. Offered at $1,499,000.

Shadow Wood at the Brooks,Bonita Springs

7607. 3 bed+den, 3 full/2 half bath, 3658 sf under air, 7036 sf total. Decorated w/European flair, offering the highest quality available in appliances & upgrades thru-out. Hand forged iron front door, 24x24 marble, artists faux paint/custom designs, double/triple crown molding, plantation shutters tile/travertine inlays, surround sound/speakers, custom built-ins. Gourmet kitchen, w/viking built-in paneled appliances, 6 burner w/griddle, stainless gas stove, granite counter-tops. Separate enclave w/wet-bar, built-in wine cellar w/custom designed double rod iron doors. Family w/built-in entertainment center leading to a vast lanai, 24x24 & 12x12 artists pavers, gas heated built-in pool, cascading spa, summer kitchen. Stunning Gazebo surrounding a built-in fire-place w/lush tropical & golf course views. Offered at $1,559,000.


Shadow Wood at the Brooks,Bonita Springs

2864. Cozy, spacious 2 bed, 2 bath, second floor Coach home with 1,480 under air, 1,630 total sf. One of the few units available with a landscaped view. Tile floor, dramatic high ceilings. Golf, amenities and clubhouse included in monthly fee. Offered at $149,000.


Fountain Lakes, Estero

2867. 4 Bed, 3 ½ bath, 2,910 under air, 5,079 total sq ft. Beautiful serene lake views, tropical landscaping, nestled on a cul-de-sac. Kitchen, w/stainless built-ins, granite countertops, decorative backsplash tile. Formal living & dining room, family room w/fireplace & built-in. Lanai w/pavers, built-in heated pool/spa w/private entry to master suite. Offered at $699,000.


Bonita Bay, Bonita Springs

2857. 2 bed + den, 2 bath, 1,727 sq.ft. under air, 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 $209,000, furnished. This is a short sale.


Grandezza, Estero

2876. 3 Bed+Den, 3.5 Bath, 3,014 under air, 5,693 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 $759,000.


Shadow Wood at the Brooks, Bonita Springs

2878. Open airy 1st floor Coach Residence, 3 bed, 2 Bath, 1606 sf under air, 2078 total sf. w/attached garage, work shop and storage area, located in a beautiful Mediterranean inspired community. Spacious kitchen, cabinet’s w/crown molding, café style breakfast island, and breakfast bar opens to large living room w/wall-wall sliders. 3rd bedroom can be used also as den w/glass pane door. Master bedroom w/two closets, private entry to the lanai and private master bath with his/her vanities. Lanai with tile on diagonal and tranquil views of 2 sprawling lakes w/soothing fountains. Offered at $339,000.

Enclave at Rapallo, Estero


2873 3 Bed, 3 bath 1,878 under air, 3,938 total sq. ft. Private guest cabana, spacious kitchen/nook, center island, cabinets w/crown molding & large sliders opening to the courtyard w/pavers, built-in heated pool & spa. Tile in main living areas, intercom, blinds, high ceilings thru-out. Master bedroom & great room with separate entrances to the screened lanai. Offered at $371,900.


Grandézza, Estero

2866. Beautiful 4 bed+den, 4.5 bath, 3474 under air, 4195 total sf, w/European flair throughout this 2 story home w/loft, eod iron/wood curve stair-case & 1st floor master suite. Hardwood flooring, crown molding, built-ins, granite countertops thru-out. Gourmet kitchen, stainless steel & paneled built-in appliances, gas cook top, French style cabi-nets w/crown. Family room w/wall to wall double French doors, paver patio, floor to ceiling curtains surrounding, built-in custom gas heated pool/spa all surrounded w/rod iron fence, tranquil views of the 18th tee & lush landscaping beyond. Offered at $1,150,000.


Shadow Wood at the Brooks, Bonita Springs

Choose success. Choose Michael.Few real estate agents are as driven as Michael Burke. A member of numerous local real estate committees, this multi-million dollar producer keeps tabs on the local market by staying intimately involved. Whether you are selling or buying, Michael brings to the table strong negotiation skills, state-of-the-art marketing methods, integrity, and the ambition it takes to achieve 100 percent satisfaction. His drive to succeed is tempered only by his understanding of his clients’ needs.

Visit www.CoconutPointRealEstate.com for Additional Pictures of These and Other SW Florida Homes or Call D. Michael Burke, p.a. 239.498.7600 for Additional Information

Choose Michael Burke as your real estate agent, and sit on the side of suCCess.

2859. 3+Den, 3 bath, 3-car garage with open floor plan. Upgrades throughout, tile on diagonal, decorative accent tile, crown molding, plantation shutters. Kitchen w/42” cabinets/crown, granite counter-tops, tile backsplash. Dining room w/built-in, great room with upgraded 12’ disappearing sliders leads to the paver lanai w/built-in pool/spa, custom flower bed and extended open patio off of the lanai. Master suite w/private French door entry to the lanai and beautiful views of tropical landscaping, golf course and gorgeous clubhouse beyond. Offered at $587,000.

For further information call Michael 239-498-7600.

Grandezza, Estero

2856. 3 bed, 2 bath 1642 under air sf, first floor carriage home w/attached garage. Decorated in neutral tones and upgrades throughout. Tile, berber carpet, plantation shutters, window treatments. Expansive kitchen w/paneled cabinets w/crown molding opens to grand living room w/wall-wall sliders leading to tiled lanai with beautiful tropical landscaping, rolling golf course, lake and club house views beyond. Master bedroom with private entry to lanai and private bath. Offered at $239,000.

For further information call Michael at 239-498-7600.

Grandezza, Estero

1050. Spacious, inviting 3 bedroom+den, 2.5 bath, 2297 sf under air, 3046 total sf, condo w/attached garage. High ceilings, tray ceilings w/crown, archways, decorative wall niches, tile in main living areas and den, decorated in neutral tones. Kitchen cabinets w/crown molding, accented tile backsplash, breakfast bar opens to casual eating area. Large Great room with wall-wall slider leading to the tiled lanai with gorgeous views of expansive lake/w/fountain and woods beyond. Offered at $395,000.


Miromar Lakes Beach and Golf club,Miromar3040. Gorgeous views of the Gulf and Bay in

this 3rd floor end unit w/3 bed, 3.5 bath, 3,295 under air, 4,215 total sq. ft. Travertine tile, custom built-ins, speaker system thru-out, hardwood floor, plantation shutters, window treatments. Gourmet kitchen, 42” cherry cabinets, granite countertops, built-in/paneled appliances. Grand living room.dining room w/wall-wall glass sliders leading to the incredible travertine tiled main terrace. Family room, guest suites, w/entrance to rear balcony. Master suite, w/striking vast entry, expansive windows & private entry to terrace. Offered at $990,000.


The colony - Palermo, Bonita Springs

2874. 3+Den, 2 bath 2nd floor carriage home with 2,387 under air, 2,860 total sf w/bundled golf in this beautiful Mediterranean inspired community. Tile, berber carpet, hardwood floor, window blinds thru-out. Kitchen w/42” maple paneled cabinets w/crown molding. Sliders from living room to lanai with beautiful tropical views. Offered at $299,000 partly furnished.


Vasari, Bonita Springs

2852. 3 bed, 3.5 bath, 3,295 under air, 4,215 total sf, 19th floor residence, Expansive windows & sliding entries thru-out, exquisite tiled terraces w/breathtaking panoramic views of the Bay & Gulf of Mexico, all the way to Sanibel on a clear day! Designer decorated, 10’ ceilings, private elevator vestibule, artist’s murals, crown molding, plantation shutters, window treatments, state-of-the-art kitchen, w/built-in paneled appliances, granite counter tops. Master suite bath w/luxurious marble vanity tops, shower & tub deck. Offered at $899,000.


The colony – Palermo, Bonita Springs

0442. Great room floor plan in this 3 bed+den, 3.5 bath 2832 under air sf, 3836 total sf, two car attached garage. Tray ceilings, rope lighting, gourmet kitchen w/stainless steel built-in appliances, gas 6 burner cooktop, tile backsplash. Stunning tiled wrap around balcony with outstanding lake views & private tiled balcony of the guest bedroom. Located in the exclusive community of Miromar Lakes with 700 acres of freshwater lakes, clubhouse, golf course, European spa, tennis courts and fitness. Offered at $699,000.


Miromar Lakes Beach and Golf club,Miromar

2862. First floor carriage home w/attached 2 car garage, 3bed, 2 baths, 1647 under air, 2256 total sf. Beautifully decorated with a tropical décor. Newly installed bamboo laminate flooring in great room, dining & den, accented paint on walls w/artist added custom accent, window treatments thru-out. Kitchen cabinets w/crown, breakfast nook w/large windows & slider leading to lanai w/electric shutters. Spectacular views of an expansive lake, tropical landscaping & golf course. Seller willing to provide a $10,000 credit towards golf membership. Offered at $272,000.

For Further Information Call Michaelat 239-498-7600

Grandezza, Estero


[email protected] | 239-777-0473

C o c o n u t P o i n t R e a l E s t a t e . c o m

EstEro | Bonita springs | naplEsMarKEt rEport

D. Michael Burke, P.A.

To view more closed details visit www.CoconutPointrealestate.com and click on Market reports

COMMUNITY ADDress BedroomsFullBath

HalfBath

living Area

YearBuilt

Private Pool

Private spa

listPrice

sellingPrice

Cost/sq. Ft.

% ofAsking

Closed Date

DOM

LIGhThOUSE BAY AT ThE BROOkS Lighthouse Bay 10811 Crooked River Rd, #76- 2+Den 2 0 2094 2003 No No $285,000 $266,500 $127 93.51% 11/30/09 62Lighthouse Bay 10811 Halfmoon Shoal Rd, #101 3 Bed 2 0 1546 2001 No No $249,000 $200,000 $129 80.32% 11/30/09 282Lighthouse Bay 10890 Crooked River Rd, #202 3 Bed 2 0 2316 2003 No No $249,000 $244,000 $105 97.99% 11/23/09 366ShADOWWOOD AT ThE BROOkS Longleaf 22011 Longleaf Trail Dr 2+Den 2 0 1939 2004 Yes Yes $500,000 $450,000 $232 90.00% 12/15/09 48Plumbago Pointe 10300 Plumbago Pointe Dr 3+Den 2 1 2562 2004 Yes Yes $659,000 $575,000 $224 87.25% 12/14/09 63Hawthorne 9097 Windswept Dr 3+Den 3 1 2740 2003 Yes Yes $799,000 $750,000 $274 93.87% 12/11/09 64Sycamore Grove 22010 Sycamore Grove 4+Den 3 0 3021 2001 Yes Yes $799,000 $758,000 $251 94.87% 12/07/09 163Ginger Pointe 10120 Ginger Pointe Ct 3+Den 3 0 2473 2001 Yes Yes $619,000 $579,000 $234 93.54% 11/30/09 455GRANDEZZA Sabal Palm 20141 Seagrove St, #302 2+Den 2 0 1490 2001 No No $189,900 $175,000 $117 92.15% 12/08/09 59Villa Grande 20150 Markward 3+Den 3 0 2655 2006 Yes Yes $549,900 $535,000 $202 97.29% 12/01/09 71Savona 12548 Grandezza Cir 3 Bed 2 0 2232 2005 Yes Yes $399,900 $386,000 $173 96.52% 11/25/09 38Santa Lucia 11504 Amalfi Way 4+Den 3 0 2750 2006 Yes No $550,000 $517,000 $188 94.00% 11/25/09 88Oakwood 20240 Calice Ct, #502 3 Bed 2 0 1647 2002 No No $219,500 $190,000 $115 86.56% 11/23/09 8PELIcAN LANDING Bay Creek 3631 Bay Creek Dr 3+Den 3 2 4209 2004 Yes Yes $2,195,000 $2,000,000 $475 91.12% 12/18/09 49Addison Place At Colony 23841 Addison Place Ct 3 Bed 3 0 2995 1998 Yes Yes $825,000 $725,000 $242 87.88% 12/15/09 345Sandpiper Isle 24330 Sandpiper Isle Way, #103 3 Bed 3 0 2060 1996 No No $289,900 $290,100 $141 100.07% 12/11/09 153Sandpiper Isle 24360 Sandpiper Isle Way, #201 3 Bed 2 0 1950 1997 No No $315,000 $282,500 $145 89.68% 12/04/09 142Waterside 23690 Peppermill Ct 3+Den 3 1 3101 2001 Yes Yes $899,000 $770,000 $248 85.65% 12/04/09 155Pointe At Pelican Landing 3491 Pointe Creek Ct, #204 3 Bed 2 0 1430 2001 No No $197,500 $190,000 $133 96.20% 12/03/09 188Capri 24721 Goldcrest Dr 2+Den 2 0 1992 1998 Yes No $475,000 $399,900 $201 84.19% 12/01/09 367ThE cOLONY Bellagio At The Colony 23831 Napoli Way 3+Den 3 1 3390 2006 Yes Yes $1,150,000 $1,100,000 $324 95.65% 12/18/09 343Castella 24031 Via Castella Dr, #1401 3 Bed 3 1 2665 2006 No No $599,900 $520,000 $195 86.68% 12/03/09 306Castella 24031 Via Castella Dr, #1203 3 Bed 2 1 2372 2006 No No $499,900 $480,000 $202 96.02% 12/01/09 52Merano 23750 Merano Ct, #201 3+Den 3 0 2748 2002 No No $499,999 $450,000 $164 90.00% 11/30/09 186Bellagio At The Colony 23781 Napoli Way 3+Den 3 0 4011 2008 Yes Yes $1,195,000 $975,000 $243 81.59% 11/25/09 209Navona At The Colony 23540 Via Veneto Blvd, #1203 2+Den 2 1 1570 2006 No No $321,651 $322,000 $205 100.11% 11/23/09 109MEDITERRA Medici 28541 Calabria Ct, #102 3+Den 3 0 2589 2008 No No $559,000 $529,900 $205 94.79% 12/17/09 239Villalago 18132 Lagos Way 3+Den 3 1 3000 2004 Yes Yes $1,195,000 $975,000 $325 81.59% 12/11/09 345Calabria 15239 Medici Way 3+Den 3 1 3967 2002 Yes No $1,795,000 $1,695,000 $427 94.43% 12/10/09 41Villalago 18272 Lagos Way 3+Den 3 1 3000 2005 Yes Yes $1,295,000 $1,000,000 $333 77.22% 11/30/09 198

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

rich MathewsState Farm Insurance Agency

Call 992-8896

“Michael Burke is one of the most thorough, innovative, caring and creative realtors we have ever dealt with. We whole heartedly recommend Michael and his team. His professionalism and dedication to serving his clients needs is the Ultimate real estate experience.”

- Darlene and Don Polyschuk (Toronto Canada)

Hear what your neighbors are saying about Michael Burke . . . .“Having purchased and or sold over one dozen homes in the last 20 years, I found Michael to be unique among the realtors I have dealt with in the past. Like many others, Michael has a comprehensive understanding of the southwest Florida real estate market that serves his clients well, which is compelling given the current economic climate. What sets him apart is the high level of integrity and the attention to detail that we found to be part of our transaction. I would solidly recommend Michael Burke to anyone looking to sell or purchase property.”

– Matthew & Regina Staudt (Upper Saddle River, NJ )

Keep the Beautiful in Bonita Clean-up

Saturday, February 27th8 a.m. to 12 noon, Community Hall under the Banyan Tree Join the city of Bonita Springs and Mayor Ben Nelson for the 8th annual community clean-up. Meet at 8 a.m. at community hall under the Banyan Tree for coffee, donuts, and registration. Free hot dogs and drinks will be provided at community hall following the clean-up and all participants will receive a free tee shirt!For more information call city hall at 949-6262.

To advertise in the next issue of

CoconutPointPressCall 239-498-7600


Around The HouseDramatically Update Your Kitchen In Six Hours Or Less With Six Projects (ARA) - With the amount of time you spend in your kitchen, why settle for out-of-date features and decor - especially since it is easy to give your kitchen a 180-degree makeover? Try these six simple projects, and in no time at all you'll have a kitchen where you will want to spend more time. Home Sweet Kitchen One of the easiest ways to make your kitchen feel warm and inviting is with updated lighting. And, luckily it can be an easy and quick project with the many conversion kits and lighting fixtures available today. Start by swapping any cold and unstylish fluorescent tube lighting with more decorative chandeliers or flush-mount lighting to flood your kitchen with ambient light. Next, fill in shadowy areas - or highlight objects you admire - with spot lights, such as recessed cans or dangling pendant lamps. Soon your kitchen - and your mood - will be glowing. Time: Two to six hours depending on the number of fixtures.Update Your Sink With An Eco-Friendly Faucet When it comes to your kitchen faucet, you may think - it's not broke, why fix it? But as a workhorse and focal point of your kitchen, that shouldn't be the case. Instead, update your faucet with a functional, stylish and environmentally friendly model. Available at Lowe's, options such as Anabelle or Dorsey Eco-Performance kitchen faucets from Moen offer pullout/pulldown functionality with three unique settings - eco-performance stream or spray for tasks like washing dishes that require a constant, yet low-water flow, or a full-flow option when filling a pot or pitcher. This simple kitchen update can yield up to a 32 percent water savings - while also adding exquisite styling in to your kitchen. For more information about the Anabelle or Dorsey Eco-Performance faucets from Moen, visit moen.com or call (800) BUY-MOEN (800-289-6636). Time: Ninety minutes.Shortage Of Storage With so many gadgets, appliances and, don't forget food, kitchen storage can quickly become sparse. Start by organizing your current storage, purging any items that you haven't used in years. Next, if you have room, add a kitchen island or additional cabinets to provide more storage and work room. Or, if space or cash is limited, search your local flea market or online at Craigslist.com for alternative options, like a vintage china cabinet or an antique overhead pot rack to house all your necessities and reduce clutter. Time: Six hours.Add Sass With A Backsplash Tired of cleaning food or grease splashes from your kitchen walls? Spruce up drab or dirty-looking kitchen walls with a dynamic backsplash on walls near the sink or stove top. hundreds of styles, textures and patterns can increase the sophistication in your kitchen and make it easier to clean. Plus, with step-by-step video instructions on how to apply the tiles available at Lowe's creative Ideas Web site it's as easy as one, two, three.

Time: Six hours.Getting A New Grip On Cabinets Over time, cabinets made of wood or metal materials can deteriorate if they're not properly maintained, making your kitchen look run-down or aged. cleaning your cabinets with soap and water, then polishing, is the best way to make them look new again. To combat grime, fingerprints and other messy substances, apply cabinet cleaner such as Liquid Gold to a cloth and buff cabinets until they shine. Replacing old handles and hardware on your cabinets with a new stylish design and finish to match your new faucet will add the final polished look to your kitchen. Time: Two to five hours depending on the number of cabinets.Advance The Technology Don't limit your technology to your phone and your TV - transform your kitchen with innovative appliances. Whether it's a microwave that fits in a drawer, a refrigerator with a TV, an oven that you can program or a customized wine and beverage cooler, adding new upscale appliances can take enjoyment in your kitchen to a whole new level. However, if

Ten Tips For Living More Sustainably In 2010 (ARA) - The beginning of a new year - and a new decade - is the time many people pledge to live differently. For many, that change means living a more sustainable lifestyle. Sustainability, once only a buzz word, is now fast becoming the way to live consciously. From reducing your water usage to buying organic, here are 10 simple ways to make 2010 the year of sustainable living: 1. Use water more efficiently: Water is a limited resource and limiting it within your household is a cornerstone of sustainability. Rain barrels, largely unheard of even a decade ago, are becoming a popular way to collect and reuse rainwater for purposes like gardening. Meanwhile, conserving water in the home by taking shorter showers or even fixing a leaky faucet also can make a difference at a time when many communities are experiencing water shortages or are expressing concerns

about water overuse. 2. compost: Turning over leaves by way of a new compost garden is one way to live a more sustainable lifestyle. A compost heap is a simple, effective way to collect yard waste, like leaves and grass clippings, and kitchen scraps such as raw vegetable peelings and coffee grounds, and return them to the ground as organic matter. 3. Seek earth-friendly packaging: To better fill that compost heap, alter shopping habits to look for products with compostable packaging. Snyder’s of hanover, for instance, recently introduced a new Pretzel Variety Sack of 100-calorie Pretzels and Pretzel Sandwiches in the market’s first 100 percent compostable outer package made from 100 percent renewable cornstarch-based plastic. The new Variety Sack includes a special logo indicating that the bag can be composted and is made with sustainable materials. In addition to that

example, more manufacturers are switching to cardboard packaging materials, which are made from renewable materials and can be recycled or composted. 4. Buy local, embrace organic: Many farmers, ranchers and, increasingly, food manufacturers, are offering foods and beverages made using sustainable practices. It could be a farmers market tomato, a local dairy’s milk, an organic snack food, like new Organic honey Whole Wheat Sticks and Organic Whole Wheat and Oat Sticks from Snyder’s of hanover, or any number of natural or organic items. The bottom line is that natural, organic and locally produced foods provide both sustenance and sustainability. To learn more about Snyder’s of hanover’s sustainability initiatives visit www.snydersofhanover.com/Sustainability/. 5. Go to seed: Take the locally grown

movement a step further - like in your own backyard or patio. An afternoon spent planting seeds or small plants can yield plenty of rewards a few weeks or months later, in the form of fresh, inexpensive and convenient vegetables and fruits. You don’t need a large tract of land, in fact, to start a small garden. 6. Ride out the trend: Sustain your own energy level by opting to ride a bike or walk to a destination that isn’t all that far away. Add a basket to a bike or take along a backpack to bring something back home. 7. Re-recycle: Recycling is nothing new and most people have been recycling in some form for years. But recycling can be taken to another level, going beyond obvious and traditionally recycled items like soda cans or newspaper to the smallest of waste materials, from plastic straws to the paper straw wrapper. Why not recycle apparel as well, by donating clothes and buying gently used clothes? 8. Plug in: Learn how to operate appliances more efficiently. For example, use cold water in the washing machine: clothes will still be cleaned, without the use of heated water. Turn off appliances when not in use, whether it’s the television, video game player or radio. Better yet, completely unplug. Many electronics and battery chargers continue to draw a small amount of power even when they are switched off. Instead, use a power strip to cut power completely when not in use. 9. Lighten up: Use energy efficient lighting and bulbs when possible and turn off lights when not in a room. That will cut energy use - and the family budget. 10. Get involved: As the sustainability movement gains traction among the public, there are more opportunities to join in. Local communities, schools and organizations often have green committees, and there is a plethora of national and grassroots organizations geared around earth-friendly living that appreciate new volunteers or members. Courtesy of ARAcontent


Our # 1 Priority is Customer Satisfaction!

check us out on the web WWW.MOVEFLA.COM

Serving Lee, Collier, and Charlotte Counties Since 1981!

Fully Licensed and insured …Fla. Registered No. IM 218 & 219

ICC Carrier MC 220489 DOT 360723 ICC Carrier MC 220489 DOT

• Moving & Storage

• Local & Long Distance

• International

• Residential & Commercial

• Free stretch wrap & Quilt pad wrapping

• Moving Cartons for sale…we deliver

• Experts in Packing & Crating

• Piano and Pool Table Specialist

• Up to 68% off Interstate Moves

• 20,000 SqFt. of Air Conditioned Storage

(800) 226-4663 TOLL FREE (239) 939-7983 TEL (239) 939-5721 FAX5607 8Th STREET WEST, LEhigh AcRES, FL 33971

Michael’s constant companions. If you see us out and about... please stop us and say hello!

News From Lee County Domestic Animal Services

Featured Pets

Name: MilaID #: 454927Breed: Domestic Short hairSex: FemaleAge: 2 Years Oldcolor: Brown & White comments: Although I’m a very young girl myself, I was found and brought to the shelter with my six babies. We were all fostered until my babies were old enough to be adopted. Now that they have found homes I would like one too. My foster mom says I’m really a sweet, quiet, couch potato. I’d love cuddle with you while we watch TV whether it’s hGTV, ESPN, or the Food Network. I can be very flexible. Adoption Fee: $50

Name: BelleID #: 461939Breed: hound MixSex FemaleAge: 2 Years Oldcolor: Brown comments: I was found by a very nice lady in Lehigh. In fact, I thought she was so nice I jumped right into her car. She saved me from possibly being run over or starving since I was really lost. Now I just need a new home. I am very friendly and playful. After all, I am a hound dog and we make great fam-ily pets. I’d love to jump in your car and go home with you! Adoption Fee: $25 during January’s Adoption Special celebrating Elvis Presley’s Birthday (all hound dogs and hound mixes are $50 off the regular adop-tion fee).

January Adoption Special: ‘You Ain't Nothin' But A Hound Dog’

During January, Animal Services is celebrating Elvis Presley's Birthday by offering a $50 discount off the regular adoption fee for all hound dogs and hound mixes. With the discount, puppies will be just $45, adult

dogs $25, and senior dogs (6 years and older) will be free! There are endless varieties among the hound breeds which include everything from Beagles, Bassets, Greyhounds, Bloodhounds, coonhounds, Foxhounds, and Dachshunds to Afghans, Basenjis, Borzois, and Elkhounds plus many more. Among the hounds you will find dogs that are clever, lively and loyal, making them very popular family pets. They are an excellent choice for children and bond with the whole family, including other pets.

For information about this week's pets, call 533-7387 (LEE-PETS) or log on to Animal Services' Web site at www.LeeLostPets.com. When calling, please

refer to the animal's ID number. The Web site updates every hour so you will be able to see if these or any other pets are still available The shelter is open for adoptions from 11:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., Monday through Saturday. The Shelter is located at 5600 Banner Drive, Fort Myers, next to the Lee County Sheriff's Office off Six Mile Cypress Pkwy All adoptions include spay/neuter surgery, age-appropriate vaccinations, rabies vaccination and county license if 3 months or older, flea treatment, worming, heartworm test for dogs 6 months & over, feline AIDS and leukemia test for cats, training DVD, 10 day health guarantee and a bag of Science Diet pet food. The adoption package is valued at $500.

New Puppy? Learn How To Prepare Your Home For A Furry Friend (ARA) - Anyone who’s welcomed a new pet into the home can tell you how important it is to prepare for that four-legged friend. Whether it’s moving furniture to accommodate a dog cage or learning to host a puppy play-date with the bulldog next door, becoming a pet owner can be a definite learning process. When getting your family and your home ready to welcome a furry friend, a few simple steps can go a long way: * While your new pet is getting used to his/her surroundings, it’s a good idea to keep them in a defined area of the house. Baby gates are perfect for closing off an area in your house and designating it as the “puppy area.” having a small rug in your puppy’s play area will not only protect your floors, but also protect your dog from sliding and potentially getting hurt. Think twice about what furniture is included in your puppy area - the more excited they get, the clumsier they get. * keeping cleaning supplies on hand will be your

greatest ally. The Swiffer Sweeper with new Wet Mopping cloths are great for wiping up pet “mistakes” and dirt that they might track in the house. * Don’t forget to brush your new furry friends. Brushing your pet regularly and frequently helps to keep his/her coat in check, especially if they are going through seasonal shedding. Brushing stimulates the skin to keep it naturally moisturized, which can cut back on dander. If possible, brush your pet outside to avoid spreading pet hair in the house. *Get down to your pet’s level, on your hands and knees, to see what he could get into. Dogs love chew toys, so don’t entice them with a ball of wires from your stereo system. Zip-tie the cords together so they stay neat and tucked behind furniture. Also, cord covers are a great idea for those extension cords running along the floor. Certain types of floor plants can be poisonous if ingested, so be sure to move them up and out of the way. * Pets, especially puppies, need to expel excess energy

by playing with others just as much as children do. When hosting a puppy play-date, keep collars on both dogs. If you need to grab one of the dogs in a hurry, you want to be sure you have something to take hold of. Also, when inviting a four-legged friend over to your home, have the dogs meet outside. This way, your pup won’t feel threatened in his own territory. It’s no secret that having a pet can benefit a family, but making certain that you and your home are prepared to welcome a four-legged friend will also benefit you. Taking a few simple precautions and making the effort to keep your home pet-friendly will make the transition easy. courtesy of ARAcontent


Germain Arena: (estero)For further information, time, tickets, Everblades schedule & other shows call (239) 948-7825 or visit www.GermainArena.com.

Coconut Point Mall: (estero)Live entertainment located at Plaza Del Lago Dr. patio.

Fine Art show (estero)Nov 7 & 8, 10am–5pm. – Miromar Outlet Mall. Artists from around the world and live entertainment. Further information call 941-755-3088, or visit www.HotWorks.org.

Gulf Coast Town Center: (Ft. Myers)8-10pm – Weekend concert series

Broadway Palm Dinner Theater: (Ft. Myers)For info & listing of shows visit www.BroadwayPalm.com or call 239 278-4422

Barbara B. Mann Theatre: (Ft. Myers)For info & shows, visit, www.bbmannpah.com/index.php or call (239) 481-4849.

Festival of lights (Naples)Nov 23, 6-9pm. 33rd Annual tree lighting, carol singing, snow falling, Santa’s arrival, plus more on Third Street.

Celebration of lights (Naples)Nov 24, 25, 27 & 28, 6-9pm. Celebration of lights continues with music and snow each night tru-out Third Street.

Christmas Parade (Naples)Dec 8, 6-8pm. Along Fifth Ave So. 239-213-7120

New Years eve Fireworks (Naples)Dec 31, 6-9pm. 25 12h Ave So.celebrates the New Year with music, snow and fireworks.

Historic Palm Cottage & Norris Gardens: (Naples)Nov 3-28, Dec 1-26, Tues-Sat 1-4pm. (239) 261-8164.

Third street Farmers Market: (Naples)Saturday’s in Nov & Dec 7:30am–11:30am. Located 1220 3rd St S. – parking behind Tommy Bahama’s. 239-434-6533.Third Thursday on Third: (Naples)Nov 19 & Dec 17, 6-9pm. Music & entertainment in the courtyards & plazas of Third St.

Thursdays on Third (Naples)Dec 3, 10 & 17 6-9pm. Music & entertainment in the courtyards & plazas of Third St

Philharmonic Center: (Naples) 5833 Pelican Bay. For more information & current shows visit www.philtickets.org/tickets/index.aspx or call (239) 597-1900.

January / February Happenings

Important “239” Numbers

eMerGeNCY Police, Fire, Medical ...................911Lee County Ambulance (Non Emergency)........................................... 335-1600Lee County Sheriff (Non Emergency)........................................... 477-1200lee COUNTY eMerGeNCY MANAGeMeNT(Weather & Disaster Spills) 477-3600Poison Control Center 800-282-3171HOsPITAls: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 390-3200lICeNse (Lee County):Animal License ................. 432-2083Boat Registration/Fishing License 339-6000Drivers License ................ 278-7192VeHICle reGIsTrATION - Lee County........................................... 339-6000VOTers reGIsTrATION 339-6300MeDICAl (Lee & Collier Counties):Gulf Coast Hospital - Ft. Myers 768-5000

Lee Memorial Hospital - Ft. Myers 332-1111North Collier Hospital (NCH)Downtown Naples ............. 552-7000North Collier Hospital (NCH)North Naples ..................... 436-5000Poison Control Center 800-282-3171NeWsPAPerBonita Banner ...................765-0110Coconut Point Press ......... 777-0473Ft. Myers News Press ...... 335-0233Naples Daily News .......... 992-3609

PUBlIC sCHOOls (Lee County):Edison Community College 800-749-2322Florida Gulf Coast University 800-590-3428School District of Lee County 334-1102reAl esTATe serVICesMichael Burke P.A., Keller Williams Elite Realty........................................... 498-7600Homestead Exemption - Lee County 339-6120Property Appraiser - Lee County 339-6100sOCIAl seCUrITY . 800-772-1213sOUTHWesT FlOrIDA INT’l AIrPOrT........................................... 590-4800TrANsPOrTATIONAirport Shuttle Service ...... 216-7777Greyhound .........................334-1011

Lee County Bus Transit ... 533-8726

U.s. POsTAl serVICeLee & Collier Counties 800-275-8777UTIlITIes (Lee County):Embarq ..................... 866-304-6820eleCTrICFlorida Power and Light 800-262-1322FlOrIDA reCYClING & WAsTe 332-8500GAs serVICe - Teco (Peoples Gas).................................... 877-932-6747sOlID WAsTe - Lee County 338-3302TelePHONe Sprint (Bonita) ............ 800-699-0728Sprint (Lee County) ... 800-339-1811TV CABleComcast ................... 800-432-4770Time Warner ..................... 574-2020WATer/seWerBonita Springs ...................992-0711Unincorporated Lee County 800-485-0214VeTerINArIANsFlorida Veterinary 24-Hour Emergency.................................... 239-992-8878

Did You Know That In FloridaIt is illegal to sing in a public place

while attired in a swimsuit


Featured Columnist

The Balancing Act: Retirement vs. College Savings

This column is produced by the Financial Planning Association andprovided by Al Procaccino, a member of FPA and Certified FinancialPlanner with Castle Financial.

www.castlefinancial.com

Have a Comment, an Article you would like

to see in the Coconut Point Press?

Contact: [email protected]

Even as the economy begins its slow crawl back, college costs are continuing to rise – that means parents are continuing to fight a tough battle between funding college and funding their own retirements. In October, the college Board reported that the average published price of tuition and fees for in-state students at four-year U.S. public colleges was $7,020 for the 2009-10 school year, up $429 or 6.5 percent higher than a year ago. After adjusting for inflation, the average net price paid for tuition and fees by public four-year college students overall is lower in 2009-10 than it was five years ago — but higher than it was last year. Private four-year colleges saw a smaller increase of 4.4 percent or $1,096, but for a much higher average annual tuition of $26,273 for the school year. Also in October, the Employee Benefit Research Institute (EBRI) and the Investment company Institute (IcI) also reported in October that American workers who held 401(k) accounts consistently from 2003 through 2008 suffered a 24.3 percent average drop in their account balance during 2008’s bear market. Despite these huge challenges, it’s particularly important for parents to make retirement their first priority – kids can always take on loans and search for scholarship and grant funding to tide them over. Parents can offer help in a better economy, but the momentum lost in saving for retirement is much tougher to replace. But not so fast. There are serious financial consequences to breaking into 401 (k) and other tax- advantaged retirement savings, and parents tempted to do so should look for other alternatives. A July 2007 Country Insurance and Financial Services survey found not only that 25 percent of

respondents thought it would cost less than $50,000 to send a child to a four-year college (on average, public schools have surpassed that when you add room and board), but that nearly half believe that saving for college is more important than their retirement, which most qualified experts advise against. Before you pick between yourself and your child by raiding your retirement accounts, here’s what you should know: You’ll escape an early distribution penalty, but… Any withdrawals from an IRA you might take for your child or grandchild’s education (as well as your own or your spouse’s) can be withdrawn without the usual 10 percent penalty on early distributions before age 59 ½. But you really need to talk with a tax advisor or a personal finance expert like a cERTIFIED FINANcIAL PLANNER ™ professional to determine whether your IRA withdrawals will have to be reported on your Form 1040. You might hurt your kid’s chances for financial aid: The entire withdrawal from an IRA -- whether taxable or not -- must be included as income on the following year’s application for the Free Application for Federal Student Aid, or FAFSA. Family income does more to influence financial aid than the size of the family’s assets, and dipping into your IRA can potentially damage your child’s potential financial aid. Check with a trained financial planner expert in financial aid strategy before you make a move. Don’t even consider a ‘hardship withdrawal’ from a 401 (k) plan: Earlier this year, the Transamerica center for Retirement Studies reported an increase in workers taking loans from

their 401(k) and other work-based retirement savings. Eighteen percent of those surveyed reported they took loans from their retirement plans in 2007 compared to 11 percent in 2006. Yet keep in mind that while most plans provide an option for hardship withdrawal for emergency medical or funeral expenses, the IRS restricts use of those funds for home purchases or tuition expenses. So what do you do? Besides talking to a tax professional, it makes sense to find time to speak with a CFP® professional to take a look at your overall financial situation so you can possibly find alternatives to raiding your retirement. A trained planner can help you look over all the spending, saving and investment decisions you’ve made so far and seal up the leaks – then you can discover whether you have smarter options to pay your child’s tuition. They include: Starting a search for scholarships and grants with your kid: See if there are grants and scholarships not only in your community, but also within your industry. Understand what a prospective student’s college choices might offer in terms of aid from its endowment. Also, some employers offer scholarships for their employees’ kids. Start searching online, at the office and by phone for such aid. Fine-tuning your negotiating skills: Parents need to become more aggressive about negotiating tuition, room, and board at colleges where either they or their children have been accepted. A financial planner with expertise in college planning can train parents to understand where those savings might be against the student’s qualifications for getting into the program of their choice.

Small-Business Owners See Silver Lining In The Recession (ARA) - The current gloomy economic conditions contain some good news for the small-business sector. According to a recent survey conducted by citibank, some small-business owners and managers are finding a silver lining in the current recession, seeing more high-quality candidates available for hire, rising employee retention rates and gains in market share. As a business owner, how can you take advantage of these small-business opportunities and make them work for your business? Small-business expert Dan Goodgame recently moderated a robust roundtable of small-business owners, who offer these three tips:1. Take advantage of the talent pool As a result of the recession, there is larger pool of highly qualified and highly skilled employees available for hire. Many who may not have considered working for a small firm are now more open to the idea. Take time to interview a variety of job candidates on a regular basis, even if you don’t have a current opening at the company. This technique can help you fill an opening as soon as it is created with the best possible talent, and avoid some of the costs - typically 50 to 200 percent of the employee’s

annual salary - normally associated with staff turnover.2. Retain your best employees holding on to your best employees is of course crucial to building your business, and it’s going to get harder as the economy starts growing again. First, create a two-way communication system that allows employees, on a regular basis, to give and receive feedback on their performance and the performance of their peers and managers. Second, create an employee recognition and rewards program that extends beyond compensation and bonus. Be creative with the rewards program; provide employees with paid time off to volunteer at their organization of choice. Provide recognition with “surprise” thank you gift certificates to a local cafe or restaurant. The “thank you” does not have to be a big dollar amount - just the recognition can go a long way.3. Seek feedback from customers as you seek referrals

With marketing budgets pinched, many business owners are taking a fresh look at ways to gain new sales by winning referrals from existing customers. One of the most effective methods is to seek feedback from existing customers on the quality of your products and services, and on your pricing. Tell customers directly that you want to do whatever is necessary so that they will be so pleased that they will recommend your company to their friends and colleagues. Listen to their suggestions on how you can improve. And when you’ve followed through on their advice, check back with them. If you know of a good prospect, ask your existing customers if they know her, and can introduce you to her and recommend you. One advantage of this approach is that it helps you get the feedback that you need to improve your service, even as it brings in new business. The small-business sector typically leads the U.S. economy out of recession, and that pattern seems to be holding up in the current downturn. Leveraging tips such as these will be key to surviving the toughest business conditions in more than half a century.


The Balancing Act: Retirement vs. College Savings Improve Your Short Game With The Proper Grip

Better Golf with “The Golf Doctor”Mike Calbot is the Director of Instructionat Old Corkscrew Golf Club, Estero, FL.

Mike Calbot International Golf Studio & Triad Golf Schoolswww.golfdoctorusa.com . 239-482-0900

Golfers often struggle with the short game around the greens because they try using their normal golf grip for the short game. The grip is as different for the short game as the grip is for putting. You would not use your putting grip to hit a driver so why would you use the driver grip to hit a chip or pitch shot. First let us understand the function of the full swing natural grip. The hands need to be placed on the golf club grip to supply leverage for power and speed along with the ability to re-square the club face during the release back through the impact zone. This is best accomplished with the more conventional grip which is held more in the fingers and diagonally across the palm of the left hand. Notice from the front view that the left thumb is at about 1:00 o’clock on the club grip and that the left thumb is only down to the second joint of the index finger. The “V” that is formed by this position is indicated by the blue line in the

picture. When the right hand is placed on the club both “V’s” form a parallel line to the right side of the face. The short game grip in function, is to eliminate wrist action and for the clubface to stay more square through the impact zone. Generally most golfers use an open stance and the short game grip which allows the ball to track better and offers a softer impact for better feel and control. Notice in the short game grip photo that the left thumb is on top at 12:00 o’clock and that the thumb is more stretched down the grip. This is because the club is held slightly more in the palm of the hand. When the right hand is placed on the club you can clearly see that on the short game grip the “V’s” point towards the left side of the face. The next time you go to the practice range give the short game grip a try and you will be amazed with the results. Enjoy, Mike Calbot

Puzzle Answers from page 5