december 09 lhp magazine

Lighthouse Pointwww.LHPmag.com December 2009

Lighthouse Point A’Glow!

www.lhpmag.com • Lighthouse Point Magazine 5

Around the Point is a column that includes news items relevant to the residents of LHP. We reserve the right to reject material that may not be in the best interest of the community.

A r o u n d t h e Point

LIGHTHOUSE A’GLOWA FAMILY GATHERING

Wednesday, December 2nd Frank McDonough Park • 6:30 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.

Train Rides, Face Painters, Real Snow, EntertainmentCookies and Cocoa all night long

Santa arrives to light the City tree at 7:00 p.m.

SOUTH FLORIDA’S ‘FINESTCOUPLES’ RAISE $110,000 FORCYSTIC FIBROSIS FOUNDATIONSouth Florida’s “most outstanding” couples helped net

$110,000 for the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation at a gala heldFriday, October 2 at the Hyatt Regency Pier Sixty-Six in FortLauderdale. The 24 couples were honored for their successin business, community leadership and unparalleledsupport of charitable causes. On this night, however, thecause that took center stage was cystic fibrosis.

“Our honorees, as well as our sponsors, stepped up ina big way to support an important charity, the economynotwithstanding,” said William E. Lewis, Jr. event chairman.“I’m pleased to say we exceeded our fundraising goalwhich will go a long way in helping to find a cure for thislife shortening disease.”

Lewis, along with wife Jennifer and Eileen and ChipLaMarca, co-chaired the South Florida’s Finest Couplesevent. Those who were honored included: Catalina andFreddie Avalos, Robin and John Bartleman, Tony Beall andRay Birbilas, Rhonda and Adam Black, Cheryl and MichaelBrown, Tamara and John Chase, Carole and Governor CharlieCrist, Marlene and Pedro Dijols, Danielle and Nick DiNicola,Stephanie and Commissioner Angel Gomez, Pauline andJuan Carlos Gomez, Genesi and Julio Gonzalez, Barbara andHal Hammel, Lisa and Derek Hayward, Karen and JoeHillman, Cyndie and Lt. Governor Jeff Kottkamp, TrinaRobinson and Clarence McKee, Melissa and CongressmanAdam Putnam, Summer and Jim Robertson, Sharon Glazerand David Singer, Kristi Krueger and Todd Templin, Sheryland Bruce Udolf, Michelle Seyez and Alan Jay Wildstein.

Lt. Governor Kottkamp presented the PresidentialVolunteer Service Award to Jennifer Lewis, Chip LaMarcaand Mike Brown for their commitment to the communityand to the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation. James E. McDonnellIV received the President’s Call to Service Award for morethan 10 years of volunteerism.

For more information on the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation,contact Jennifer Tate at 954-739-5006 or email [email protected].

COMMERCIAL INVESTMENTBUYER BREAKFAST CLUB SEMINAR

FEATURED GUEST SPEAKERJIM ROSEMURGY

The REDI Foundation is pleased to announce that JimRosemurgy of Campbell & Rosemurgy Real Estate is thefeatured Guest Speaker at the Commercial InvestmentBuyer Breakfast Club Seminar, held at the Lighthouse PointYacht and Racquet Club, December 17th.

Mr. Rosemurgy is one of the owners of Campbell &Rosemurgy Real Estate. This year marks his firm’s 56thanniversary. The company has grown over the years tobecome one of the largest real estate sales and propertymanagement companies in South Florida. Mr. Rosemurgyis also a noted real estate developer and investor.

Richard Michael Abraham, the Founder of REDI, willpresent the Seminar. Mr. Abraham has experience in realestate development and took part in $5 Billion dollars ofcommercial transactions in 25 states. The Seminar isdesigned for a select group of buyers who are ready, willing and able to acquire commercial investments in the$1-$10 Million dollar price range. Space is strictly limited. For Seminar topics and an Application, visit:www.redii.org/seminar.

“RELAY FOR LIFE” NEEDS YOUR HELP!Relay For Life will be held on Saturday and Sunday,

May 1,2, 2010 at Quiet Waters Park. Our 2010 theme is“Countries.” Each team will be highlighting a specificcountry with food, decorations, music, and activities at theRelay. The May 2009 Relay raised $102,300. The 40 teamsthat participated raised $90,000 of the total and theremainder came from sponsorships. Our goal for the 2010Relay is to have at least 40 teams and raise $110,000 forthe American Cancer Society.

To learn more about the Deerfield Beach/LighthousePoint Relay for Life, please go to www.relayforlife.org/dblpfl. You can also call Carlos Sanchez, Event Chair -person, 954-822-9582, or Carol Landau, Event ViceChairperson, 954-426-6547. Be a part of this outstandingRelay for Life, benefiting the American Cancer Society.

6 Lighthouse Point Magazine • www.lhpmag.com

Features

10 Tight’s PeoplePumpkin Party

15 Friends Come Outto SupportMichael Brewer

30 LHP HalloweenHappenings

36 LHP SproutsCelebrateHalloween

42 Lighthouse PointHealth Fair

46 Casa MacalusoRestaurant

The complete Decemberissue and back issues of

Lighthouse Point Magazine

can be seen on our greatwebsite at www.LHPmag.com

Advertising Rates& Information

The Lighthouse Point Magazine ispublished monthly by City NewsGroup and delivered by mail, free ofcharge each month to residents ofLighthouse Point, Deerfield Cove,businesses and the surroundingcommunities. Check our website for advertisingrates and specials for new clients, orcall 954-486-3820.

DEADLINES FOR CAMERA-READYART AND PREPAYMENT OF ADSARE DUE ON THE 1ST DAY OF

THE PRECEDING MONTH OF PUBLICATION.

ALL ON-GOING ADS MUST BECANCELLED BY THE 1ST DAY OF

THE PRECEDING MONTH OFPUBLICATION.

3467 N.W. 17 Terrace, Oakland Park, FL 33309OFFICE 954-486-3820 • CELL 954-608-3820 • FAX 954-735-3652

Email: [email protected]: www.LHPmag.com©2009 Lighthouse Point Magazine

JonFrangipane – Founder/Publisher/Editor

BabsKall, Kall Graphics – Magazine Design & Layout

BohPhillips – Ad Design LindaKaufman – Staff WriterWendellAbern – Staff Writer AlanWilliamson – Staff Writer

Contributing Writers

Jim Balistreri, Doreen Gauthier, Sheriff Al Lamberti, Dr. Steve Wigdor, Donna Torrey,Dr. Gary Goberville, Erica and Jan Davey, Barbara Silkstone, Rev. Jack Noble, Mary Griffin, Karen Hammett, Denise Richardson, Al Siefert, Mary Greenwood, John Offerdahl, Catherine Favitta, Kim Sherman and Commissioner Ken Keetchl

F r o m t h e EditorOUR NOVEMBER COVER

It was understandable that a few of ourreaders would be uncomfortable with theNovember issue cover, and perhaps bettersuited for a cosmopolitan audience.

Debra Todd’s amazing underwaterphotography is not only a beautiful, uniqueand a creative work of art, but perfectlyembodies the theme of the story regardingthe plight of a single mother.

❖ ❖ ❖

AN AT&T NIGHTMARE!Oh, the promises by the AT&T

salesman about the new U-Verse systemwere too good to be true – but it wasn’tlong before the truth came to light.

No less than 45 AT&T “repairmen” havetramped through my home for the past 8months, unable to get my T.V., Internet andphone in any working order for any lengthof time. It seems the company sub-contracts much of their work out tohighly unqualified people, instead ofactual company workers who may knowwhat they’re doing. Incredibly, one workereven blew out my 19-inch TV.

Spending hours on the phone speakingwith pleasant, but poorly informedPhilippine and Indian customer support

people did not make thenightmarish journey anymore tolerable. Oh yes, myphone has a constant humthat is beyond theirtechnical expertise.

My opinion? Life is tooshort. Stay as far away fromAT&T as you can!

❖ ❖ ❖

ECONOMIC BUMP UP?We felt about a 10% drop in business

during the summer months, but we’rehappy to report that Lighthouse PointMagazine is now taking orders for ads theJanuary and February issues (as this is beingwritten on October 27th). We feel that it isin great part to our wonderful staff, whichnow includes Babs Kall at Kall Graphics.However, nothing can be taken for grantedin the current environment, so we will besure to bring you the best monthly businessand family news possible.

At this time, Wendell Abern, writer of“Cantankerously Yours,” is on leave,tending to his wife, Carol, who is seriouslyill. We wish her fast recovery.

Lighthouse Point

Fashion & JewelryBeacon Light Jewelers & EngraversBody & Soul Boutique

BonworthMy Own Cruising JournalMyriam’s Jewelry & Engraving

PetsGigi & Luca Pet Boutique

Pet Haven Grooming Salon

Art & FramingWorden’s Art & Frame

Food & SpiritsBuccaneer Lounge & Liquor

Fin & Claw IIGolden China

Offerdahl’sRita’s Italian IceSicilian Oven

S & J Culinary Creations

ServicesEducation Station Pre-School

Interiors by Janet M. Ruffolo

Lighthouse Point Florals

Milbern’s Shaver Center

One Price Dry Cleaner

Summit Builders

Venetian Luggage

& Shoe Repair

Salon & SpaBeacon Light Barber & SalonBlue Room Salon

Casa Del Sol TanningHaircolorxpertsMerle Norman Cosmetics & Day SpaSally Beauty Supply

Top Nails

Insurance & FinanceAllstate Insurance

Bank United

Bee Insurance

Edward Jones Investments

Mortgage Results of Florida

HealthEye Site Vision Center

Medical Diagnostic Rehab of S. FL

2400 North Federal Highway, Lighthouse Point • 2 blocks north of Copans Road on the east side

www.BeaconLightShoppes.com

Contents

NOTICEPast issues of

Lighthouse Point Magazine

can be viewed online atwww.LHPmag.com

Al’s Corner . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 72

Around the Point . . . . . . . . . . . 5

As I Was Saying . . . . . . . . . . . 24

Beauty Spot of the Month . . 26

Commissioner’s Report . . . . . 72

Cookin’ with the Community. 62

Editorial . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6

Eyes Have It. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60

Garden Lady . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26

Green Harriet . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54

Grief Man. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16

Happy Birthday . . . . . . . . . . . 70

Healthy Choices . . . . . . . . . . 60

Hot Off the Grill . . . . . . . . . . . 64

Identity Theft . . . . . . . . . . . . . 66

I Love My Pet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8

Kids at Risk . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 71

Legal Matters . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48

Library News. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52

Mortgage News . . . . . . . . . . . 48

On Religion . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58

Out & About . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4

Pet Care . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52

Real Estate News . . . . . . . . . 58

Sheriff Lamberti Reports . . . . 64

Strange, But True . . . . . . . . . . 54

Maggie MaeHi, my name is Maggie and I get into

most everything around the house. Ilike to help out on craft projects,construction projects, laundry—prettymuch where ever my Mom and Dadneed me. Dad does some great woodturning and as you can see, I lovetrying out the shape of the bowls hebrings in the house. Ahhh.... this oneis just the right size.

Timothy JamesonI’m Timmy, a long-hair tuxedo cat.

During my day I pretty much followMaggie around and try to get her toplay with me. I enjoy the usual “catnaps” but love to romp around andplay chase and hide-and-go-seek.


I Love My Pet

Please send us a favorite photo of your pet. Also, include 75 words, or less why you love your pet, your name, address, phone and the name of your pet. Send photos by regular mail, or by email as a PDF or jpeg file [email protected]. No photos will be returned.

To accommodate the manyrequests we get for our publication,

copies of the Lighthouse PointMagazine are now available during

the first week of each month at: LHP Library, Police Station,

Red Fox Diner, Roadhouse Grill,LHP Yacht & Racquet Club, J. Marks,Yahoo’s, Rita’s Ice, Bonefish Mac’s,

Duffy’s Diner, Federal Grill andOfferdahl’s Cafe.

Call for other locations.

DECEMBER QUOTE“Decisions are the endless uncertainties of life

that we’ll not know if they’re right until the very end, so do the best you can and hope it’s right.”

- Lily Collins

Both of these loving cats wereadopted from local “No Kill” shelters.

ADOPT

A FRIEND

FOR LIFE

There are many greatdogs and cats awaitinga forever home. Helpsupport our localshelter, The FloridaHumane Society, alocal, No-Kill, 501(c)3Organization.

FloridaHumaneSociety.org

The Tight’s People Pumpkin Party!



The occasion was the annual pumpkin carving event,sponsored by John and Cathy Tight.

And oh yes, the surgery began early on the Fridaybefore Halloween at the Lighthouse Point Tennis Center,when the knife blades dug into pumpkins displayed onthe many tables just outside the clubhouse. Someyoungsters came early and could be seen workingfeverishly to get a jump on the rest of the crowd.

It’s amazing how creative one can get in pumpkincarving. And what a shame the works of “art” cannot bepreserved for posterity.

Also Impressive was the gastronomical delights thatseemed to continually come through the door at theTennis Center. The selection and quality of the food wasexceptional.


Frie to Su

Grant Galuppi, Joseph Cholak, Mellsia Pollack and Pat Galuppi.

Galuppi’s Restaurant and Patio Bar was host to a fund -raiser for 15-year-old Michael Brewer, who was seriouslyburned on October 15th in Deerfield Beach.

Pat and Grant Galuppi, owners of Galuppi’s, and MelissaPollack were talking a few days after the story madenational news and decided they had to do something. Anevent was planned for October 27th at the restaurant andthe Galuppis said that they would be donating all barproceeds from the night and all the bartenders woulddonate their tips. They contacted the media, printed flyers,used Facebook and got the word out.

“It was amazing to see so many people turn out tosupport this family, physically and financially. We had somany people thank us for giving them an opportunity to

be part of such an event and support the cause. I thinkmany people just didn’t know what to do and how tohelp,” said Mellisa.

Don Larson did a wonderful job selling 50/50 ticketswhich brought in $2,000.00 and 80% of the people whobought tickets and won donated the money back to theBrewer Family. Donations were also accepted. Childrento seniors, city commissioners, to political figures,firefighters, to police officers, tourist visiting South Floridato all the regulars, everyone was there in support. $10,000was raised!

Thank you to Galuppi’s and Melissa and everyoneinvolved for supporting a most worthy cause!

Michael Brewer

Restaurant and Patio Bar

at


He had an idea for the New Year and heknew he could make money on it. Herented a sky blue pickup truck and stucksigns on the doors that read:

THE GRIEF MANPick Up and Hauling, Day or Night

No Grief Refused.Reasonable Rates

Telephone 1-800 NO-GRIEF

He drove around the neighborhoods for weeks. At first peoplepeered through their curtains or went in the house when he sloweddown, but one day a small woman in her seventies waddled downher front walk and asked him if he could take the memory of herdead husband. After six years, not only did she not miss him, but hewas haunting her house to the point where she couldn’t findanybody else, and she had to admit he wasn’t, if you asked herninety-six year old mother, a very nice man to begin with.

The Grief Man smiled and she wrote a check. He put the deadhusband memory in the truck and drove off slowly, partly out of a senseof honor and hopefully, so the rest of the neighborhoodwould see that he really was serious and write down hisphone number.

Of course the woman got on thephone and the word spread. Within dayshis phone was ringing off the hook. Hecould barely fill his orders. A manwanted to get rid of his son’s drugaddiction, another man wanted to berelieved of the embarrassment ofwearing a hairpiece, not the hair piecemind you, the embarrassment thereof. Achild called. It seems the kid down the block got a tan cowboy hatand he got a red one when all he really wanted was AUTO THEFT.He couldn’t throw his red one away because everyone would know.Parents called in droves to rid themselves of the worry of what todo about leaving their children alone. Alcoholics called at all hoursof the day and night. The back of his truck reeked with alcoholicgrief going into withdrawal without people. Then there were thesick, the elderly and the fleeced, which had lost their entire savingsto illness or inscrutability. The Grief Man left them at the curb withcherubic smiles. A single mother wanted traffic removed. A fishcutter said he never wanted to see another fish; a fast food workerwanted the smell of French fries removed forever. A set of twinwomen in their forties wanted to rid themselves of their likeness.

The Grief Man took credit cards. The Grief Man bought two cellphones. He didn’t need to advertise. The Grief Man could barely fillhis orders. The Grief Man had to rent a warehouse.

A woman from Pembroke Pines, Florida said she was too hot. Aman from Pulaski, New York said he was too cold. The Grief Managreed to take heat and cold via overnight express. A Chicagobanker wanted the entire New Year removed and the Grief Mandevised a way to do it on the installment plan with balloonpayments. Best he could do given such short notice. The bankeragreed. A Las Cruces, New Mexico woman, wanted slipperinesstaken out of satin sheets. Children with dead pets called from allover the world. A little girl from Adams, Massachusetts wanted a sunfish she caught, cleaned and buried in the back yard the summerbefore, to be put back in the lake. A therapist from Los Altos,California wanted to know if the Grief Man could remove the need,“To talk it all out.” A man who said he represented a largegovernment agency he refused to identify, called regarding theelimination of war and poverty, but left no return phone number.

The Grief Man got rich. He picked up a too-late Eminem record

collection, sixteen truckloads of Brittney Spears supermarket Musakand one volume of poetry by Robert Service, four hundred thousandtruckloads of used Harry Potter videos, a four by eight mini-storageunit full of 1960s memories and stadium-size tonnage of booksabout the uselessness of the sixties. The Grief man couldn't fill thenumber of orders for the removal of grief over the Martin LutherKing and Kennedy assassinations, but he managed to put a dent in it.

So it was, on New Years Eve at 11:57 p.m. that he drove his truckup to the side of his house, full of last minute pickups ; cockroachproblems, found money, winning lottery tickets, missed chiropracticappointments. He felt exhausted, but happy. He gazed wearily at theChristmas tree aglow by the fireplace in the adjoining living room.He sat down at the kitchen table and opened a beer. He watchedthe smoky gas escape from the top. He picked up the bottle andbrought it to his lips, when the phone rang. He paused to wonderwho it could be and he promised himself he would not answer. Helistened to the phone ring, one two three rings; he wanted to drink hisbeer. He picked up the phone.

It was the little boy of the red cowboy hat. The Grief Man wantedto know what he was doing up at that hour and the boy said he’d

been to church and the minister told him to be grateful forwhat he had instead of always wanting what somebody

else had and could the Grief Man returnhis red hat? The Grief Man hesitated fora second before obliging. After all, it wasthe New Year and this was a little boy.Little boys don't always understand

what, or why they do what they do. The Grief Man looked at the nice hot

chocolate that he hadn’t even sipped. . Nowhe had to go out and get the red hat, but before

he could get his coat on, the other phone rangagain. The kitchen clock read 12:09 a.m. It was the New Year. Thewoman on the phone was crying. She said she was Susan of theSusan and Sylvia twins. She said no one recognized her withoutSylvia and would he please, please return her to, at least, a shadowof her former self.

By 12:20 a.m. the phones never stopped. The fast food workersaid she needed the smell of French fries on her skin to feel alive, thealcoholics wanted their drinks, parents wanted their children to gosomewhere, anywhere, so they could be alone, the cold man fromPulaski couldn’t stand sweat, the hot woman from Pembroke Pinescouldn’t stop shivering, the banker called to say the balloonpayments on the removal of New Year had given him no place tobegin, nor end, and the widow called to say she discovered the GriefMan's phone number on the refrigerator door and it reminded herthat she needed to cry, but she couldn’t remember what for, sowould it be possible, to return what it was she had forgot toremember, immediately.

Thereafter the Grief Man’s phone never stopped ringing as hedrove frantically and forever into the night of nights, the forwardingof calls jamming his truck phone, his ears, his very life; the calls tothe Grief Man waxing toward a hopeful dawn.

Happy Holidays to all!

David Plumb is the author of six books. His writing has appearedin The Washington Post, The Miami Herald, The Orlando Sentinel,New Verse News, Blue Collar Review, New College Review Beyondthe Pleasure Dome Anthology, Homeless Not Helpless Anthology,Would you Wear My Eyes, A Tribute to Poet, Bob Kaufman, 100Poets Against the War, Salt Press UK, and St. Martin’s Anthology,Monde James Dean. Mr. Plumb is a long-time member of the FortLauderdale Writers’ Group. http://notesfromawaveringplanet.blogspot.com

The Grief ManBy David Plumb

THE GRIEF MANP ck Up and Hauling,

Day or N ghtNo Gr ef Refused.Reasonab e Rates

Telephone 1-800 NO-GRIEF


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LHP Chamber of Commerce Social It was all about the PINK!!!Thursday, October 22, 2009

In honor of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, the LighthousePoint Chamber of Commerce’s October Social on Thursday,October 22, 2009 was themed in Pink, Pink, and Pink!

Over 80 members and guests, donned in PINK, enjoyedmixing and mingling at the Lighthouse Point Yacht and RacquetClub. This is a record number of attendees. Linda Lennon, theDirector of Club Membership and her team were gracious hostsand provided Spa Services that evening such as Chair Massagesand Cranial Release Technique treatments. Linda invitedeveryone to learn more about the services and benefits ofbecoming a LHP Yacht Club member. Over 40 “pink themed”gifts were raffled off and the $300 raised will be donated locallyto American Cancer Society’s Making Strides Against BreastCancer. These items were purchased from the many of the localLHP retailers to support and promote shopping in and aroundtown. Stop in and visit their array of merchandise which isperfect for many events and celebrations all year long.

The Merchant Presentations this month were done by JoanneMassey-Dean and Dr. Brian Rask. Joanne brought a beautifulcollection of Sipalda Jewelry and announced that a portion ofthe proceeds from the jewelry sales that night will go BreastCancer Research. For more information about Sipalda Jewelry,log on to http://mysilpada.com/joanne.massey-dean. Dr. BrianRask announced that he will be offering “Invisalign Days” at his dental practice on Thursday, October 29th from 8 am to 5 pm and again on Wednesday, November 11th. During this timehe will be providing treatment consultations for this clear way to straighten your teeth. Call his scheduling coordinator at 954-782-1864 for more information about this new serviceand event.

Michele Greene, President of the LHP Chamber remindedeveryone that the date for the upcoming Taste of LHP will be onJanuary 19th and will be held at the Yacht & Racquet Club. Thecommittees are busy bees with the final plans. The goal is toraise $50,000.00 this year. Log on to www.lhpchamber.com for

more information. There are still several sponsorshipopportunities available and the committee will be collectingauctions items until January 10th.

Cindy Tenberg announced that the new chamber directory,The Navigator, is well on its way to completion. She notatedthat the deadline to be included in this directory is November1st. This is a great way to promote your local business both inthe printed directory that is being mailed to all LHP residents aswell as being featured on-line. The directory will be available inearly January.

Julie Wheeler, Membership Chair announced that membershipcount is up to a whooping 173! Greene announced the followingnew members: Patty Miranda, Olympia Flame Diner; Dr. Dean andDr. Weekes, LHP Animal Hospital; Christina Henley, Solid RockRealty; Larry DeVille, Fast Tex On-site Computer Services;Jacqueline Smith Abraham, Campbell & Rosemurgy Real Estate;Carmen Turner, Compu-Pay; and Danielle Williams, Ocean’s BistroRestaurant and Valerie Booth, SkyMax.

New Members (L to R) Sue Agnew, The Cove Restaurant;Valerie Booth, SkyMax; Larry DeVille, Fast-teks and

Patty Miranda, Olympian Flame Diner and Julie Wheeler, LHP Chamber Membership

The Body and Soul Retreat held a friendly party on the evening of October 17th,although a downpour of rain threatened to dampen the proceedings. But as 7 p.m.approached, the skies cleared and the big party began. They promised our clients andlocal merchants an extravagant affair and they succeeded.

Valerie Brunnberg of Party Lite, gave the front entrance of Body and Soul Retreat a quickfacelift with her stunning candle arrangement. Restaurants such as El AGave, Sub Talk, and4th Generation Organic Market had two tables filled witha variety of foods for everyone to sample. The entertain -ment, provided by Luis Mario’s Entertainment Company,had peopled glad they brought their dancing shoes.

Mayor Fred Schorr and his lovely wife, Laraine, mingledwith members of the community in the garden area, asour staff was chatted with different clients.

Everyone who attended received a raffle ticket, inhopes to win our gift bags. Each bag had gift certificatesto our spa, free service vouchers from Dr. Paula Hedglon,candles from Party Lite, free yoga classes from AwakenYoga, and much more.

Body and Soul Retreat takes customer service veryimportantly. When a client gives their time, they do the best to give high-endservices, serenity, and a quick break from the chaos of day-to-day life. Theirgoal each day is to see each client leave refreshed, renewed, and ready to re-enter the world.

Body and Soul Retreat is located in theGateway Shopping Center at 2024-2026 E. Sample Road in Lighthouse Point. CallKristin at 954-784-5505.


Body & Soul Retreat of Lighthouse PointCustomer Appreciation Party


On October 27, Norcrest Elementary celebrated its fifthannual Math Night at Publix at the Shoppes of Beacon Light.The store was crowded as more than 250 students,accompanied by their parents, combed the aisles in search ofanswers to grade-appropriate questions set for them. Theproblems have been carefully crafted to address areas ofdifficulty that students have demonstrated in attempting FCATquestions. They are aligned to both, the Sunshine StateStandards and the new math benchmarks. The event is freeand open to all Norcrest students who are accompanied by anadult. This fun-filled event aims to foster students' criticalthinking skills by solving mathematical problems in the realworld setting of a Publix store.

Norcrest ElementaryCelebrates

Annual Math Night5thBy Cora MartinPublix Math Night Coordinator, Third Grade Teacher/ NBCT

Mr Paul Hammett, himself a Norcrest alumnus, andthe current store manager, supports the event byproviding cookies and prizes to participants, as well asthrowing a party for the class with the highestattendance. This event presents a model of teachingmathematics as a life skill.

AS I WAS SAYING


Mountain MenBy Alan Williamson

When asked why he risked life and limb to climb Mt. Everest,master mountaineer George Mallory famously replied “Becauseit is there.” After 25 years in relentlessly flat South Florida, I canrelate. Every so often I feel the need to heed the call of the wild,leave the Florida flatlands behind, and set out to far-off placeswhere I can hike up the face of a mighty, fear-inspiring mountain.My not-so-quotable reason for doing it? “Because it is elsewhere.”

Now, before you get carried away with visions of lung-gasping,boulder-clinging adventures in the Alps, Andes or Rockies, let memake one thing mountain river clear. Having grown up innortheast New Jersey about 40 miles north of New York City, myidea of hiking up a mountain involves meandering along a well-marked trail to a modest peak of no more than 1,000 feet,pausing to enjoy the view and say something appreciative like“nice” or “sweet,” and heading back down in time for dinner.

My hiking home turf is a region known as the New JerseyHighlands, a subset of mountains and ridges in the Appalachianchain that extends south from Connecticut into Pennsylvania.West Milford, the rural Jersey town I grew up in, sits in the heartof the Highlands and is home to over 100 miles of marked hikingtrails, nearly 40 lakes, four state parks, and my old boyhood homein the woods that my father likes to call “The Ponderosa.”

Much to his dismay, my dad also lives in Florida these days, ina house in the suburbs he likes to call “The Penitentiary.” For anoutdoorsman like him, living in Port St. Lucie, Florida is akin to acaptured white Bengal tiger who, in an ill-conceived attempt atdomestication, is trained to try and blend in at the bingo hall andavoid going into a thrill-of-the-kill feeding frenzy at the early bird buffet.

To provide a socially acceptable outlet for his untamedtendencies, my mother and he have worked out a system wherehe is tagged and released into the backcountry of northern NewJersey every autumn where he spends the remainder of the yearroaming the secluded trails and forests of wild West Milford.

This year, before autumn’s festive charms gave way to winter’ssadistic tortures, I decided to renew my mountain mancredentials and join him. How could I go wrong? It was mid-October, a time in northern New Jersey known for mild,sun-splashed days and cool, crisp nights. A time where nature’sCrayola box of primary colors erupts into joyful celebration,causing grown men to stop on the side of the road and tear upin worshipful wonder. A time when the smell of smoke fromnearby chimneys signals the end of summer as townsfolk sustainthe flickering warmth with a cozy fire and well-worn sweater.

Except that, this year, winter decided to hold a sneak preview.“I hear it’s supposed to get down in the 30s tonight,” I relayed

to my father as we made our way into the woods and onto thewhite dot trail. “It doesn’t feel cold to me,” he asserted, as acontradictory droplet of snot dangled from his nose. “As long asyou’re dressed for it, it’s not a big deal.”

I thought of the winter coat, gloves and hat with built-in earflaps that my uncle had lent me, kicking myself for leaving themin the rental car back at the house.

“Only a la-la would be cold in this kind of weather,” I bellowed,jamming my hands deep into the pockets of my flimsy denim

jacket in search of undiscovered warmth.“It’s not a good idea to walk in the

woods with your hands in your pocketslike that,” my father cautioned. “If you trip, you’ll need to throwyour hands out in front of you so you don’t hit the ground facefirst.”

“Good point. You ready to take a break and have some trailmix” I proposed. “We’ve been out here a couple hours by now.”

“We’re only 30 feet from the house,” dad pointed out, noddingtoward my rented Ford Focus visible in the driveway throughthe trees.

With my father eying me warily, we followed the white dottrail deeper into the woods, occasionally using our hand-carvedwalking sticks like a third leg to maintain balance over wet leavesand loose stones.

“I like having the walking stick in case we run into any blackbear,” dad mentioned casually. This made me shiver for otherreasons.

“Have you seen any black bear out here?”“Not this trip. But they’re out here. The mounds of bear scat

are everywhere.”“I always heard that you’re supposed to lie down and play

dead if you cross paths with a bear,” I ventured, seekingconfirmation.

“That’s for grizzlies,” dad clarified. “Black bear will just benddown and start digging into their happy meal, grateful for thequiet treat. Of course, if you hit them in the face just right withyour walking stick, you might be able to daze them long enoughto get away.”

“What if you miss?”“Then your best shot is to poke yourself in the face with the

walking stick and hope the bear thinks you’re crazy.” With thoughts of keeping a hungry 300-pound bear at bay

with a walking stick and a wild gleam in my eye, my dad and Ipushed on to the final phase of our climb, navigating a steep,boulder-strewn path to emerge out on the open rocks for a scenicbird’s eye view of the serenely impressive Wanaque Reservoir.

Surveying the dramatic beauty below us, the strain of the coldweather and rugged climb caught up to me, and instead of sayingthe customary “Wow, what a view,” I said…

“Wow, it’s so easy to lose all track of time out here in thewilderness. Like, I could have sworn I hopped on a plane in mid-October, but now here I am, freezing cold, and it feels likemid-December. I love Thanksgiving, but I guess I blew right byit this year walking around for months in the woods. I’d offeryou some trail mix dad, but it’s all gone. Every last raisin. I wishI had rationed it better, but mountain men gotta eat, right? Stillnot sure about the black bear survival strategy. And what aboutdeer, coyotes, bobcats, wild turkey, low-flying eagles? I heardsomething about porcupines being out here and being veryterritorial. I’d hate to piss off a porcupine, but it’s really notpractical to spend a four-hour hike constantly thinking “watchout for porcupines,” “watch out for porcupines,” “steer clear ofthe porcupines.” Dad? Dad?!?


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Congratulations to Debbie and Fanancy Anzalone of 3910 30th Avenue, winners of the Lighthouse Point Community’s Beauty Spot of the Month Award for November, chosen by the LHP Beautification Committee.

Beauty Spot of the Month

It seems that lizards are a real hot button issue amonghomeowners. I didn’t say among gardeners, because realgardeners know that most lizards are really our friends.

First of all, not all lizards are alike in their choice of foods.Remember the dinosaurs, those great lizards of long ago?Some were carnivores and others were herbivores. Theremnants of these creatures have similar traits. Some lizards,like iguanas, are strictly vegetarian, or herbivore.

Iguanas are a good example of what happens when anexotic species runs amok. They just don’t belong in SouthFlorida, where there are no natural predators. Iguanas are theones causing all the damage to plant material, and for whichGarlic Barrier can be used to try and control their eatinghabits. There are some products being touted as sure fire forgetting them to move on, but none are guaranteed to work,especially if it rains a lot. There is a good product called Plant-Protec, which are vials of garlic that you clip on to your plantsbeing eaten. It lasts for six months without having to re-apply.Products with Neem in them are also working for some folks.The Neem makes the plants taste extremely bitter. If nothingelse, both products will also deter insects.

All we can do isrepel them, but if theyare hungry enough,and their populationsare high, nothing issafe. The garlic/neemflavor imbued ontotheir favorite dinner menu makes plants unpalatable and hope -fully, they will move on. Use this link: http://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/IN528. It is a University of Florida publication that willgive you all the options available to control them. Don’t bemisled; they state that “There are currently no repellentsregistered for preventing feeding damage from iguanas.”

The smaller, carnivorous lizards are actually quite beneficialto your home environment. They eat the very creatures youmost despise: mosquitoes, roaches, flies, ants, beetles andsnails. They will not bite, aren’t poisonous to you or your petsand are more afraid of you than you are of them. These aregood to have around.

Garden Gate Nursery is located in the Pompano Citi Centre.Donna can be reached at 954-783-GATE, or at

www.donnasgardengate.com

The Garden Lady Says…Jurassic Park?

By Donna Torrey

Plant more milkweed; iguanasdon't like them, but butterflies do!

Beauty Spot of the Month


PEDIATRIC DENTISTS

Dr. Robert Stephens

Dr. James Bennett

Dr. Lauren Governale

“SERVING SOUTH FLORIDA FOR OVER 35 YEARS”

(SATURDAY HOURS AVAILABLE)

954-781-1855

1930 NE 34th Court • Pompano Beach, FL

Email: [email protected]: www.sfldco.com


Lighthouse Point Halloween Happenings

2009 Photo Gallerywww.lhpmag.com • Lighthouse Point Magazine 31


New Location on the Water

3100 E. OAKLAND PARK BLVD. • FT LAUDERDALE, FL 33308


The Light Sprouts Celebrate

Julie Clark as the Capri Sun Queen withKris Coe as Eco Friendly Rapunzel

(her braid is Publix Bags).

Halloween

www.lhpmag.com Lighthouse Point Magazine 37

The Lighthouse Point Sproutscelebrated Halloween with an Eco-Green Halloween Party at McDonoughPark on Saturday morning. There, kidspartici pated in a costume contest,scavenger hunts, a “recycling” relay —where kids had to grab items and placethem in the appropriate recycling bins— and munched on a variety of snacksand goodies.

The costume contest included opportu -nities for kids and parents to createrecycling-themed costumes, including oneparent making a dress out of plastic bagsgiven out during the J.R. Dunn Run, aRapunzel costume featuring braided hairmade from Publix shopping bags, twoknights who created costumes out ofrecycled aluminum juice drink bags, and two others dressed as recycling binscomplete with cans and plastic bottles. one activity table, a green-themed tarotcard reader gave out advice and hints as to things people can do to help theenvironment.

The Eco-Green Halloween party wassponsored by The Chappell Group ofPompano Beach, with food and bever -ages provided by Publix at Venetian Isleand Starbucks in Pompano Beach.

Working with the city’s Beautifica -tion Committee, the Lighthouse PointSprouts provides a venue to educateyoung people about the environmentand is dedicated to improving the Cityof Lighthouse Point and the surroundingareas. Meeting monthly to either planor execute events, the Sprouts haveplanted gardens at parks, cleaned uplocal beaches, and celebrated holidaysusing environmentally friendly themes.Families can join for just a $25membership fee and receive a t-shirt forparticipating. For more information,visit www.lhpsprouts.com.


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For more information or to schedule a consultation, please call 954.776.8824 BrowardHealth.org


Fundraiser at Galuppi’sOn November 3rd, associates from

the RE/MAX Partners Lighthouse Pointoffice organized a fundraiser to helpout a fellow realtor, Dorine Wollangk,who was recently diagnosed withbreast cancer.

Dorine, who is a single mother andreal estate agent, was going to do afundraiser for Susan G. Komen duringthis trying time until the associatesfrom her office stepped in to help anddo a fundraiser for her instead. Theevent turned out to be a huge successand they raised over $2,000 to help hercover medical expenses.

Thanks to the donations from localrealtors, title companies, mortgagecompanies, close friends and neighborsshe will now have a little more support.Thanks to all who helped out a friendin need.

The City of Lighthouse Point, in conjunction withBROWARD HEALTH North Broward Medical Center,presented the annual Community Health Fair at thelighthouse Point Fire Station from 9 to noon on Saturday,November 7th.

Residents showed up in force for free event, whichincluded a Bloodmobile, and the North Broward MedicalCenter with Dr. Nada Boscovic answering questionsregarding Internal Medicine, as well as Cholesterol/BloodSugar screening, Carotid Artery Screening, BloodPressure Checks, Pulse Oximetry, Stroke Assessment,Memory Disorder Center, Joint Replacement Center andWound Care Center.

Imperial Point Center presented Dr. Coral Vallaneuva,Podiatrist, along with Dr. Peter Painter, Chiropractor,American Cancer Society, Broward Homebound, Curves,NE Focal Point and much, much more!

Lighthouse Point Health Fair


Smith & Abraham

Experience Knowledge Integrity

READY PL YOUR HAND?As foreign buyer cquire U.S. commercial property investments, do you know how to thro our a ed assets?

Jim Rosemurgy, Featured Guest Speaker

Before you buy any commercial property investment, attend this seminar and meet Richard Michael Abraham.

With experience in $5 Billion dollars worth of real estate transactions in 25 states, Mr. Abraham will guide you, as your Buyer Broker.

He works for buyers only, who are ready, willing and capitalized to buy $1,000,000- $10,000,000 dollar commercial property investments.

Learn what you do not know about the topics below:• Market Trends. The silver lining in this mad market.• The best type of investment properties this year.• How to buy and turn around Distressed Properties.• Developing an Opportunistic Investment Strategy.• How Mr. Abraham conducts Market Analysis, prepares detailed Financial Evaluation, negotiates Price, creates Joint Ventures (pools buyer capital) to acquire institutional Grade A, $50 $100 Million dollar Commercial Property Investments and renegotiates lender mortgages so his buyers can own troubled but prime investments.

Attendance for the BREAK ST CLUB SEMINAR is for buyers only.

ensure your seat at the Seminar, complete the Application:www.redii.org/seminar

schedule a private meeting with Mr. Abraham, call 954-545-7733. Want to sell your investment property? Call Jackie Smith at 954-545-7734.

COMMERCIAL PROPE Y INVE MENT BUYER

BREAK ST CLUB SEMINAR

Sponsored by The REDI Foundation

Lighthouse Pointcht and Racquet ClubDecember 17, 2009

8:30 AM Noon

Featuring:Richa Michael Ab ham

Guest SpeakerJim Rosemu

Space is limitedcht Club Members 0

Others $25

ensure your seat at the seminar complete the Application:

www.redii.org/semina

Broker Ass ciateDirect: 954 545 7733

2741 Marina Circle, Lighthouse Point, Fl 33064

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natives of Sicily, have opened a gem of an Italian restaurant onSample Road, just one block west of US1, called Casa Macaluso.Antonio serves as the host, and brother Carlo is Head Chef.

A small white picket fence with red gardenias at the doorentrance gives the exterior a defining feature when searching forthe restaurant by car. As I entered the restaurant I was overcome bynostalgic feelings of my dining experiences in Italy, where the foodis fresh, simply divine, and the ambience, intimate and charming.

Immediately, you are greeted by Antonio, who can only bedescribed as the epitome of Italian charisma—a warm, invitingsmile, a twinkle in his eyes, and most importantly, the MARVELOUSItalian accent! For years I had been in search of a small Italianrestaurant that conjured up my gastronomical love affair with Italy…and I finally found it!

Golden tan with touches of blue upholstered booths line oneside of the room, and dark wood tables occupy theopposite side, all of which are dressed with whitetable linen. The walls are finished in a shiny,textured golden, terra cotta hue, aVenetian marble method that Antonioused to portray an authentic Italianfeel to the restaurant. Two flat-screentelevisions play Italian movies withsubtitles—one night it was Fellini, oneof the all-time great filmmakers. Italianchansons and light operas such as that ofAndrea Bocelli and the low lighting set themood for an intimate experience.

Reminiscent of the European diningexperience, having dinner at Casa Macaluso you order a nice bottleof wine, savor the flavor and presentation of each artistic dish, andexchange a bit of laughter, humor and conversation. This is not aplace to go if you want your meal in ten minutes. Here,everything is freshly made -- nothing is prepared in advance, soit will take a little extra time to get your meal. But I assure youthat it’s definitely worth the wait.

Once seated, Antonio will bring over a large parmigiana cheesewheel from which he carves a few pieces and serves with a drizzleof balsamic reduction. Then he brings a sampling of Sfincione, a sliceof Palermo pizza made with onion and artichoke, and eggplant madewith capers, green olives, tomato paste and white balsamic vinegar,as well as a sampling of roasted peppers. Just indulge in theseappetizers slowly as you peruse the menu. The Italian wine list isextensive, prices ranging from $23 to $148. The familiar “boot” shapemap of Italy appears next to the different wines with the regionhighlighted in red to indicate where the wine originates. A littlewine lesson to start!

The antipasti selection comes in a generous portion that can beshared among a small party of four or more. Prices range from $9.75to $14.75. The Clams Oreganato ($13.75) was a delightful start thatbrought out the contrast of a light, flavorful breading of the clams.The Salami Platter ($14.75) is a large platter of Prosciutto di Parma,Bresaola, Capicollo Piccante, Soppressata, Parmigiano Reggiano and

Fontina, served with homemade CiabattaCrostini—one made with artichoke pates,

one with black olives pates and onewith sundried tomato pates. A most

memorable dish was the BeefCarpaccio ($14.75), which is thefinest part of beef tenderloin,served raw and seasoned with a

light balsamic Dijon mustardvinaigrette and topped with a nest of

arugula salad, slivers of ParmigianoReggiano and cherry tomatoes. The beef is so

tender that it just melts in yourmouth, and the combination of

parmigiana and arugula isjust perfect. Adding a bit oftartness and texture.

The pasta dishesrange from $12.75 to$18.75. As mentioned

earlier, all the pasta isfresh which makes a big

difference in its flavor. I had totry my favorite Italian dish—

Linguine with White Clam Sauce ($18.75)that was cooked perfectly, al dente, in white wine, garlic, fresh chiliesand a half pound of Manila clams. It was light and heavenly and thechilies gave it a little zip to its flavor!

For Risotto lovers, this is the place! The Mushroom Risotto($20.75) is made with Arborio risotto, wild mushrooms and whitetruffle oil in the kitchen. Then Antonio puts it in a large parmigianawheel, flambes it, then stirs the rice while the cheese melts into therisotto. Highly recommended! I loved the Seafood Risotto ($28.75)which came with clams, mussels, tiger shrimps, calamari, seascallops, 6oz of lobster tail, cherry tomatoes and finished with olioverde di casterlvetrano. The slightly spicy flavor gave it a lighter tastethat I prefer.

Antonio and Carlo Macaluso,

Beef Carpaccio

Salami Platter

The meat dishes range from $17.75 to $33.75. I would assumethat one of Carlo’s signature dishes is the Veal Parmigiana on thebone ($33.75), which easily serves two people. It’s a 16 oz centercut veal chop pounded and Panko breaded, first pan fried thenfinished in the oven, topped with melted Mozzarella, FontinaCheese, San Marzano sauce and served with homemade RicottaGnocchetti. The Ossobuco alla Milanese ($28.75) is a nice piece ofveal shank, marinated over night with Chianti wine, baby rootsveggies and aromatic herbs, then slowly braised in the samemarinated liquid until the meat falls off the bone. This is served withArborio saffron risotto.

The fish dishes range from$22.75 to $32.75. The Sea

Scallops and Prosciutto($22.75) are three

large pan seared seascallops wrappedin a slice of pro -sciutto di Parmaand served overa bed of sautéedspinach with

their homemadeorange tartar. The

Mediterranean BlackCod ($26.75) with

black olives, capers, garlic,shallots, Italian parsley, fresh

oregano and a splash of white winein their San Marzano sauce was perfectly moist and flavorfuland melted in my mouth. Blissful!

My all time favorite is the Branzino ($32.75) which isextremely light and exquisite in its subtle flavor. Thewhole fish is stuffed with aromatic herbs, garlic andcompletely covered with sea salt and baked in theoven in its own steam, keeping all its naturalflavors. It is then de-boned at the chef’stable and served with sautéed spinachand lemon mashed potatoes. Just heavenly!

As Carlo says, “I createclassic Italian with a moderntwist.” The Tiramasu ($5.75) isserved in a glass bowl withthin shavings of homemadedark chocolate. The CannoloSiciliano is one of his Grandma’srecipe, which is an unforget -table experience altogether!Being a chocolate lover, I devouredthe homemade chocolate moltencake that was served with mint gelato($5.75).

At the end of the meal, you will have theopportunity to indulge in a glass of their homemadeLemoncello, a recipe handed down from their grandma

who ran a restaurant in a hotel owned by the family since 1912 inSicily. According to Antonio, one of the customers complained thatthe Lemoncello wasn’t cold enough, so his grandmother froze a

bottle of Lemoncello in an ice bucket and presented it to hercustomer with the bottle in the block of ice and asked, “Is thiscold enough?” Since then, the Macalusos have presented theirLemoncello in a block of ice!

As I recall the lifestyle of the Italians, dining has always beenseen as an important part of their culture. It’s more than just anactivity to satiate one’s hunger. It’s an occasion to celebrate time

spent with family and friends, a moment to exchange thoughts,ideas, stories, and love. It’s a time when each moment is

enjoyed and remembered. Dining is never hurried; it’splayed out in aleisurely pace.

I found the Casa Macaluso a special place whereItalian love songs played while I sipped my PinotGrigio, where Antonio smiled with his eyes every time he passed our table and asked,“How is everything, Senora?” As if we were guestsat his home, Antonio and Carlo seemed to want toplease us every moment we were there. It was

definitely a time to remember—and I plan to beback time and again!Café Macaluso is located at 1825 E. Sample Road,

Pompano Beach. Call 954-788-0255.

This article is for promotional purpose only.


Antonio preparesspecial MushroomRisotto recipe

Seafood Salad

Veal Parmiggianna on the bone


MORTGAGE NEWS

Not only has shopping for a home inthis wild Real Estate market become atedious and nerve racking experience,but shopping for the best mortgage has

q y ng. First of all, a person’s home in mostcases is their largest investment. So, naturally, the stress level is high.Secondly, that long list of charges on the Good Faith Estimate are so”scary”. Even some of the most educated and experiencedborrowers become overwhelmed when presented with one. Someare embarrassed or overwhelmed to admit that they have no ideawhy a particular fee is being charged. Many of the fees are standardand others are “negotiable” or they are “junk” fees. Some are moredue to new regulation (since the HVCC passed appraisals fees haveincreased significantly), or new to the industry. Unfortunately, somemay be misrepresentations by the bank or broker. The borrowercan’t help but become confused.

It is very common for buyers to meet with several banks and/ormortgage brokers when shopping for a mortgage. For some of usthe comparison is welcomed. Because for us, the more theborrower shops, the faster they will be running back to our officeasking if we can lock them in right away. That is if all the quotes theyhave gotten compare apples to apples, so to speak. It is common tohave borrowers come back to us convinced that a competitor isoffering a rate and terms we know is absolutely impossible toobtain in the current market. Often times after further investigationwe find that the lender is offering the rate that the borrower claimed,but they failed to mention that they would have to pay up to 2 “points”to get that rate. The banks and brokers are smart though, they areaware of the compliance laws, so they don’t call them “points” they

call them something else so that they are not included in the APR.The result, the borrower is tricked… until the day before the closingwhen it is too late to change lenders. Most of us left in the mortgagebusiness like to believe the these practices don’t exist anymore. Butunfortunately we hear stories more often than we would like to thatthe greed and deception still exist.

Keep in mind that the APR is pliable. By law, certain fees arecalculated into the APR calculation, others are not. Brokers and bankplay with the “names” of fees to artificially lower their APR’s. Ratesmay be quoted with “no points” to entice the borrower. But, keep inmind that ”points” are tax deductable costs. Other closing fees may notbe. So, charging fees in lieu of points to manipulate the APR is aninjustice to the borrower because the total cost is ultimately higherbecause they are not tax deductible. This important detail can costthe borrower thousands of dollars if he is not careful.

In addition, Be leery of any broker or bank that will not give youa Good Faith Estimate within a reasonable matter of time. On verystraight forward transactions the GFE should be provided in a matterof a few hours. On more complex transactions more time may berequired. If they tell you that you must complete a full applicationto obtain one, your guard should go up immediately.

Now more than ever, meeting with an experienced, reputablemortgage professional is vital in the home buying process. Give us a callfor any mortgage advice you may require. We are committed to hand -ling our clients in the most honest and professional manner possible.

Karen Hammett is a licensed Mortgage Broker and owner ofHoward Grace Mortgage located in the Duval Court ProfessionalCentre located at 625 SE 10 Street, Deerfield Beach. Please call herat 954-421-3010 or e-mail her at [email protected].

Beware When Shopping for a MortgageBy Karen Hammett

LEGAL MATTERS

The insurance companies have done avery good job convincing the public that

lawyers are to blame for higher insurance premiums. It is not the legalcommunity that is the cause of crashes, falls, and professionalmalpractice — it is carelessness. Let us start with the practical fact thatpeople make mistakes, and their mistakes cause damage and injury tothemselves or others. As a litigation attorney for over thirty years, I havelearned that a great many conflicts can be resolved without attorneys.Sometimes it is as simple as just saying “sorry,” acknowledging thedamage, and paying for the damage caused. When the damages are justtoo great, that is when you need to have adequate insurance. You shouldcarry enough insurance to protect your assets in the event you causethe damage. What people in South Florida often ignore, is that so manypeople have no insurance to pay for their mistakes, and those samepeople have insufficient assets from which victims of their mistakes canbe paid. This is really the main point of this month’s legal matter article.

Florida applies “comparative negligence” in determining how muchsomeone may recover in an accident claim. It is really a logical concept.For example, if someone trips over an uneven walkway, you could saythat the person who tripped might be fifty percent responsible for notwatching their feet, while the owner of the property is responsible forthe other fifty percent of fault. Using that example, if the injuries

suffered equal $10,000, the person who was hurt would be entitled to$5,000. For motor vehicle accidents, Florida adds the concept of “NoFault.” In simple terms, even if a person is one hundred percent at fault,they cannot be sued for the victim’s pain and suffering, unless thedamage caused is permanent injury, scarring, or disfigurement. The staterequires every driver to insure themselves for at least $10,000 of theirown damages; that is called PIP, or personal injury protection. The“penalty” for not carrying the PIP is the loss of the “permanent injury”requirement from being sued; you are subject to what we used to call“nuisance claims.” If a driver causes a crash with injuries and does nothave liability insurance, the state will suspend the driving privilege untilinsurance is obtained and the damages have been paid. It is clear thatin Florida, there are too many uninsured drivers, who just don’t care.

You should have enough insurance to cover any damage that otherpeople may cause to you. Make sure to buy uninsured/under-insuredmotorist coverage. Elect medical payment coverage to supplement youdeductibles. Seriously think about how much money you might needif someone damages you. In Florida, it is not “if” you will be in anaccident, but “when.”

For further info: Sherman Law Offices 954-489-9500, or visit thewebsite at www.shermanlegal.com

Accidents Happen to People Like You!By Kim Douglas Sherman, Esquire


The patient and any other person responsible for payment has the right to refuse to pay, cancel payment or be reimbursed for payment for any other service, examination or treatment which is performed as a result of andwithin 72 hours of responding to the advertisement for the free, discounted service, examination or treatment.

1313 E. Sample Rd.Pompano BeachCall Now forAppointment

(954) 946-1799

Paula R. Hedglon, D.C.Chiropractor 24 years’ experience

If you’re sick, you should goto a chiropractor to strength-en your natural healing abili-ty. The goal of the chiroprac-tor is to awaken your ownnatural healing ability by cor-recting subluxations. A sub-luxation is a misalignment inyour spine that irritates yournervous system resulting inoverall weakness, disharmonyor malfunction.Subluxations affect the healthof your nerves, ligaments,discs, joints, muscles becausethey inhibit the energy thatflows from your brain andnerves to all parts of yourbody. By correcting subluxationsyou promote natural healing,vitality, strength, and health.That is why you may seemany people with differentkinds of health problems inour office.

We are specially trained toanalyze you for subluxations.We use a specific chiropracticadjustment technique, free-ing you from pressure inyour spinal cord and nerveinterference.The Chiropractic Message issimple. You have within youan inborn or innate naturalhealing ability that needs tobe reawakened andunleashed. Your body is yourbest healer. You will feel bet-ter , heal better and functionbetter if you have no subluxa-tions inside of you.Common Questions aboutChiropracticShould I go to a chiropractorif I’m suffering from a dis-ease? Yes.Can I see a chiropractor ifI’m under medical care? Yes.Can my children be checkedif there are no problems? Yes.

Chiropractic keeps your chil-dren healthy, helps theirbody function and buildstheir immune system. If I had spinal surgery (neckor back) can I still go to thechiropractor? Yes, we havespecial techniques that aregentle and effective.Why should I go to a chiro-practor if I feel OK? You mayhave a subluxation and notknow it. Fortunately, we candetect subluxations by usingcomputer scans, examina-tions, and x-rays before youfeel it or have a symptom.Why should I come to youroffice? Chiropractic is myLife and I have been underchiropractic since I wasborn. We take care of manyfamilies. It is our mission tomake sure everybody getstheir spine checked, especial-ly the kids. We love kids, our

office is friendly and we carefor you like our own family.Come see for yourself.

Why You Should Go To A Chiropractor

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By Doreen GauthierGift of Time


We are approaching the giving periodof year. The desire to obtain the perfectgift for each and every person on our list

confounds all of us. For many the most welcome gift to give or toreceive is the gift of time. Enough time is a commodity that eludesthe most organized or the most casual individuals. Even those whooperate on “island time” are stressed to the max trying to coordinatecalendar events and obligations from Halloween until Super Bowlweekend. Have you noticed how much longer the “holiday season”has become? Donating a few hours of one’s time may seeminsignificant during any given week — but compound your gift ofa few hours with the few hours of like-minded others and the totalnumber of hours is dramatic — and what can be accomplished isextraordinary. Even Walt Disney gets into the volunteer spirit — theDisney Corporation announced free passes to 1,000 individualsnationwide who participate in the “Give a Day, Get a Disney Day”program through 2010. The gift of time is a self-less gift —remember the O’Henry tale of the Gift of the Magi?

The Doreen Gauthier Lighthouse Point Library is blessed toreceive the gift of time 365 days every year from our volunteers.This cadre of devoted men and women donate hundreds of hoursto make the operation of this city’s cultural hub run efficiently andeffectively. During this economically stressed era their donations

are a boon to stretching our budget. Each year I report that thevolunteers save the equivalent of three full time employees or about$125,000 in salaries and benefits. $125,000 would fill many stockings!

Our volunteers come from a broad spectrum of service — wehave retirees, and some who are still employed, from the professions,business, retail outlets, teachers, financial whizzes, medical fields andreligious agencies. Their rich tapestry of experience adds a depthof knowledge and support for our staff. The wealth of theircollective knowledge is often probed to answer a particularlypondering query. The volunteers mark milestones of service with us— it is not uncommon for us to recognize 10, 15 or 20 years ofservice. Years of service are like one’s age, only a number. Wecelebrate both!

We all know “it is more blessed to give than to receive” — this isthe perfect season to give that precious commodity of time. Take ahomebound neighbor to the mall to see the decorations. Offer tobabysit the neighbor’s children so Mom can have a respite. Walk afriend’s dog for an evening or two. Whatever little time you give tosomeone else will be a gift to yourself as well. To have a friend, bea friend — to have time, give time.

The Library staff, boards, and volunteers wish you and yours ameaningful, spiritual and blessed holiday season and a very healthy,happy and prosperous 2010.

While you’re busy making festive plansfor the holidays, please don’t forget aboutyour pets.

One of the most common items around a home during theholidays is chocolate. Small amounts of theobromine (an ingredientin chocolate) can cause vomiting and restlessness in pets, and fewpet owners realize its toxic potential. Ounce for ounce, bakingchocolate has six to nine times as much of the substance as milkchocolate does. Estimates of the smallest amounts that can be fatal are: • 4 to 10 ounces of milk chocolate or 1/2 to 1 ounce of baking

chocolate for small dogs, such as Chihuahuas and toy poodles. • 1 to 1 1/2 pounds of milk chocolate or 2 to 3 ounces of baking

chocolate for medium-sized dogs, like cocker spaniels and dachshunds. • 2 to 4 1/2 pounds of milk chocolate or 4 to 8 ounces of baking

chocolate for large dogs, including collies and Labrador retrievers.If accidental ingestion occurs, a veterinarian should be consulted

immediately. Cats have much different eating habits and seldom are poisoned

by chocolate. Other pet hazards to be thoughtful of during the holiday season are:Bones: The holiday turkey will leave tantalizing bones, but don’tfeed them to your pet. Small bones or bone chips can lodge in thethroat, stomach, and intestinal tract.Holiday plants: Holly and mistletoe are extremely poisonous wheneaten. The poinsettia may not be truly poisonous, but its milky whitesap and leaves can cause severe gastric distress.

Electrical cords: Holiday lights mean more electrical cords forkittens and puppies to chew; have cords secured and out of the way.Candles: Lighted candles should never be left unattended and thatis even more important if left at kitty’s eye level or within puppy’schewing zone. An exuberant tail or a swat of a paw, and candles orhot wax can quickly become disastrous. Pine Needles: Check around holiday trees and boughs frequently.Ingested pine needles can puncture your pet’s intestines if sharpenough.Holiday Tree: Make sure your tree is well secured. If you have aclimbing cat or large dog with a happy tail, anchor the top of thetree to the wall. Preservatives used in the water in a tree stand cancause gastric upsets, so make it inaccessible. Ornaments: Sharp or breakable ornaments, and even aluminum foil,should be kept out of reach. String objects, especially tinsel andribbons, should be safeguarded at all costs. They are thin and sharpand can wrap around intestines or ball up in the stomach.Stress and company: With everyone coming and going, watch outfor open doors. Make sure your pets have collars and tags on incase of escape. Provide a quiet place for your pets to retreat towhen the festivities get too stressful.

Happy Holidays from the Acacia Animal Hospital staff!Provided by the American Animal Hospital Association,

Courtesy of Laurie Phillips, DVM and Mark Stevens, DVM,Acacia Animal Hospital, 4771 N. Federal Highway,

Pompano Beach, FL 33064, (954)942-5955,www.AcaciaAnimalHospital.com

PET CARE

Holiday Pet PrecautionsBy Laurie Phillips, DVM

LIBRARY NEWS


He is known throughout the world, by various names;Santa Claus, Father Christmas, Kris Kringle, Saint Nicholas,Sinterklaas, St. Nick, and Pere Noel. On Christmas Eve,countless children all over the world lie in their beds while“visions of sugarplums dance in their heads.” When theyawake they will excitedly check to see if Santa Claus hascome to bring them gifts.

One town in Indiana is called Santa Claus. There is alsoa Santa, Idaho.

The original Santa Claus, St. Nicholas, was born in Turkeyin the 4th century. He was very pious from an early age,devoting his life to Christianity. He became widely knownfor his generosity for the poor. But the Romans held himin contempt. He was imprisoned and tortured. But whenConstantine became emperor of Rome, he allowedNicholas to go free. Constantine became a Christian andconvened the Council of Nicaea in 325. Nicholas was adelegate to the council. He is especially noted for his loveof children and for his generosity. He is the patron saint ofsailors, Sicily, Greece, and Russia. He is also, of course, thepatron saint of children. The Dutch kept the legend of St.Nicholas alive. In 16th century Holland, Dutch childrenwould place their wooden shoes by the hearth in hopesthat they would be filled with a treat. The Dutch spelled

St. Nicholas as Sint Nikolaas, which became corrupted toSinterklaas, and finally, in Anglican, to Santa Claus. In 1822,Clement C. Moore composed his famous poem, “A Visitfrom St. Nick,” which was later published as “The NightBefore Christmas.” Moore is credited with creating themodern image of Santa Claus as a jolly fat man in a red suit.

The snowman is a fun way for children to play in thesnow. Made from large snowballs and accessories fordecorating — a carrot for a nose, buttons for eyes andsticks for arms.

The first Christmas card was created in England onDecember 9, 1842. Hallmark introduced its first Christmascards in 1915, five years after the founding of the company.An average household in America will mail out 28Christmas cards each year and see 28 eight cards return intheir place. More than three billion Christmas cards aresent annually in the United States.

The Santa Claus suit was developed in the 1930s. TheCoca-Cola Company hired American artist HaddonSundblom in 1931, to redesign Santa Claus. Sundblomchose the official colors of Coca-Cola, red and white. Themovie “How the Grinch Stole Christmas” (2000) featuresmore than 52,000 Christmas lights, about 8,200 Christmasornaments, and nearly 2,000 candy canes.

Composting, the controlled decomposition of yard andhousehold organic waste, is increasingly popular amongtoday’s homeowners. Besides diverting organic wastefrom our landfills (the Environmental Protection Agencyestimates that yard and household organic residualsconstitute 24 percent of the United States’ solid wastestream), composting biodegradable household wastecreates a useful organic fertilizer that improves the qualityof garden soil and promotes the health of your plants.

Composting Basics

Home composting can easily be accomplished inbackyards using either an enclosed bin or an open pile;many cities even hold composting workshops. Inside thecompost material, decom position is fueled by microscopicorganisms that devour and recycle the organic waste.Many household waste items can be composted, includinggrass clippings, leaves, landscape trimmings and fruit andvegetable scraps. Meat and dairy scraps should be avoidedto reduce odor and pest problems. Simply add yourmaterials to the bin or pile, turn the compost occasionally

to incorporate air, and keep the materialmoist, but not wet. In two to three months, youwill know that your organic compost is “done”when the material becomes dark brown andcrumbly with an earthy aroma.

Composting EquipmentThe simplest home composting method is to create a

pile, but commercial compost bins are readily available at your home and garden store and other sources.Homemade bins are fairly easy to construct with scrapwood; even a garbage can with holes punched in it will suffice.

Find a location in your yard with good air circulationand drainage; you may also wish to choose a place out ofview from neighbors and your windows. The ideal size fora compost pile is about 3 feet by 3 feet by 3 feet, as thisallows for optimal air circulation while encouraging theheat buildup required for the transformation of waste intocompost. The only other equipment necessary for homecomposting is a shovel and a water source.

Green HarrietComposting Tips for Your Organic Trash


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TRICIA’S SKIN CARE RELOCATES AND NOW OFFERS

MORE SERVICES!Miss Patricia (Tricia) Lambe has been providing

esthetic services in her popular Lighthouse Point salonfor the last ten years. Her original services includedfacials, microderm abrasions, waxing, manicures andpedicures. She recently moved her salon two blockssouth to provide for expanded services of laserapplications. These new services include Acne Clearance,Permanent Hair Reduction, Photo-Rejuvenations,Pigmented and Vascular Lesion Reductions, RosaceaReductions and Cellulite Reduction. Known for hercolorful personality, Tricia is meticulous and serious inher approach to skin care. Tricia was born and educatedin Ireland and has resided here in the United States since1984. Skin care is her life’s passion and she is trulyexcited with her new ability to provide additionalservices for her clients. Tricia is pleased to carry a fullline of Dermalogica and Bioelements products.

Visit Tricia in her beautiful new salonNow known as

TRICIA’S SKIN AND LASER CENTRE1701 NE 28th Street

Pompano Beach, Fl. 33064Phone: 954-242-0542

ON RELIGION

Childhood Memories By Reverend Jack Noble

When I was a boy, maybe eight or nine, itwas decided by someone in our home — myparents I would suspect — that I would go to a

summer camp in the Sierra Nevada’s. This camp was run along some ratherpunctilious lines. Part of our wardrobe, as campers was to include a shirt, andnot just any shirt either, but a one-of-a-kind-designed-specially-for-this-campsort of shirt. It was to be worn every afternoon, without exception when wewere “inspected.”

Somehow, for reasons that were never fully explained, my parents sent meoff to camp without that one-of-a-kind-specially-designed-for-this-camp shirt.Instead by some catastrophic, miscalculation they sent me to camp with ashirt that was “sort of” the right color, made out of “kind of” the right material,but it wasn’t the shirt. So, every afternoon when I wore that shirt to inspec -tion, instead of blending-in inconspicuously there I was, a somewhat short,overweight, small, homesick boy, who saw himself as something of an oddity.

Looking back now from the perspective of this many years, I can smile atthe memory of my chubby little body and my forlornly mumbling, “Here,”when my name was called. But at the time, I promise you, it was no joke! Iwas miserable — unspeakably miserable, abjectly miserable. Why; for thesimple reason that I was different from all the others. I stood out from thecrowd at time in my life, and in a place where that was the last thing I wanted.

I would suspect that I am not alone in this. I am certain that more than afew of us carry around such memories from childhood — some episode ofloneliness and terror at the thought of being different. Further, I wouldsuggest that there are even fewer of us who do not carry some of this deep-

rooted fear well into our adulthood. This terror I would imagine is asfundamental as the fear of falling. And perhaps it is exactly that — the fearof falling, of falling out of favor with others simply because we are differentfrom them.

Yet, I suggest if we value leadership, or if we prize achievement, or if weare at all concerned with our own painful struggle toward maturity, then thisfear must be overcome. The rewards of differentness are easy to see.Regardless of where we might look – science, entertainment, law, educationand it goes on and on — the demand for individuals who are above average,and therefore different is crucial. As with most fears, this one too dims whenwe drag it out of the shadows, and into the light of day. By so seeing, at thebottom of it all is this intense preoccupation with self. That silly shirt, and myfear, was just a form of inverted egotism.

It takes courage to be different. But there is also an art to it. I mean to bedifferent without antagonizing people with our differentness is important. Inmy opinion most people don’t object to the differentness nearly so much asthey object to the attitude of superiority that so often goes with it.

One rule of thumb, perhaps, let’s be as different as we like, but let’s alsotry to be tolerant of the people who differ from us. If we were to simplygrant to one another the right to be simply ourselves, then that I suggestwould be difference enough.

What are we to do?Go ahead, take a chance. If you are letting the fear of “what people might

say” hold you back or down, be brave, take a chance. The risk may be greaterthan the penalties, and the rewards may be greater than you could ever imagine.


REAL ESTATE NEWS

What’s a Commercial Property InvestmentWorth? Only What a Buyer will Pay!By Richard Abraham

In my 35 years of nationwide experience in real estate development andCommercial Property Investments, during "hot" markets long gone,commercial property investments were priced based on the average localmarket capitalization rate. (“cap rate”) For example, if buyers were placingoffers, the buyer willing to pay a price based on the lowest cap rate, ownedthe property.

And so, as this process proceeded, an average cap rate was established.In the good times, if an office building had a $1,000,000 net operatingincome (NOI), and the average local market cap rate was 6%, then dividingthe net operating income by the cap rate, resulted in a price paid by thebuyer of $16,666,000. Thus, the seller and listing broker of CommercialProperty Investments were setting the price based on a 6% cap rate.

What this meant from the buyer's perspective is the equivalent of gettinga 6% return.

And so, in the good times, the seller and listing broker set the price usingthe average local market cap rate. Those days, that method and approach topricing Commercial Property Investments means nothing in today's market.

In today's Commercial Property Investment market e.g. office andmedical buildings, shopping and retail centers, apartment complexes, hotels,storage facilities, triple net industrial property, etc. the seller and listingbroker NO LONGER set the local market cap rate or the pricing. The buyersnow set the cap rate and price!

For example, if the office building described above showed a$1,000,000 net operating income, the buyer decides what return he/she

wants to earn, and thus, what price to pay. If buyers in the market wantto earn a 10% return, then the office building above is worth $10,000,000,and not $16,666,000.

As an advisor and Buyer Broker for buyers of Commercial PropertyInvestments, the first question I ask my buyers is, "What return are youlooking for?" Some buyers will respond 15%, or 12%, or 9%, or 8%. Thus, thebuyer who seeks an 8% return, will pay $12,500,000.

In my business, as advisor and Buyer Broker to buyers of CommercialProperty Investments, I conduct a financial evaluation on all worthwhileCommercial Property Investment submissions and once I've completed mydetailed market and financial evaluation, and have determined withprecision, the real, actual NOI, and value, only then do I present myproprietary investments to my buyers. (I teach my methods at theCOMMERCIAL PROPERTY INVESTMENT BUYER BREAKFAST CLUBSEMINAR, December 17, at the Lighthouse Point Yacht and Racquet Club)Thus, in today’s market, the buyer who will pay a price, based on the lowestcap rate, owns the property. Therefore, in today’s market, every CommercialProperty Investment is Worth only What a Buyer is willing to pay.

Richard Michael Abraham is the Founder of The REDI Foundation,www.redii.org, and a Broker Associate with Campbell & RosemurgyReal Estate. If you would like to contact Mr. Abraham, or have anyquestions, call Direct 954-545-7733, or Cell 954-397-5355 or email:[email protected]

Open Your Eyes to LatissePatients Embrace Eyelash Growth ProductBy Melanie S. Hecker, MD, MBA

THE EYES HAVE IT

CONTACT LENSES — NEW AND IMPROVEDBUT THAT’S NOT ALL! By Dr. Steven Wigdor

LatisseSince making its debut on the market

this year, Latisse is the first treatment approved by the Food andDrug Administration (FDA) to increase eyelash growth. Latisse hasgained a following as a new tool in the aesthetic dermatologymarket for improving a patient’s cosmetic appearance.

Most medical practices have been busy with the latest treat mentsand technologies for wrinkles, brown spots and sagging skin in recentyears. However, there has been some skepticism over how muchdemand there truly was in the marketplace for an eyelash growthtreatment. However, an informal poll of aging women demonstratedthat there is a demand to improve one’s eyelash appearance.

How Does Latisse Work?The product is applied to the base of the upper eyelashes only

and increases eyelash growth within 8-16 weeks. However, I haveseen results in as little as 4 weeks. Once results are seen, it ispossible to slow down or reduce the frequency of use of Latisse.Over the course of 8 weeks, patients reported improved length andthickness of their eyelashes. Eyelashes also may get darker and morenoticeable over time, especially if you have light or blonde eyelashes.You must continue using Latisse to keep these benefits.

In December 2008, Latisse gained FDA approval following aclinical trial of 278 patients. After once-a-day applications on theupper eyelid margins for 16 weeks, patients treated with Latisseshowed statistically significant greater improvement than those inthe control group in the measurement of eyelash prominence,length, thickness and darkness.

Can I Use Latisse on my Eyebrows?Although it is referred to as an off-label use and not in the

directions for use or approved by the FDA for eyebrow use, patientshave reported seeing some benefit from applying the product totheir eyebrows. Some have reported fuller and longer eyebrows aswell. But I caution that this is an off-label use of Latisse and therecommended directions are for the upper eyelashes only.

Side EffectsSurprisingly, few side effects have been reported during the clinical

trials for Latisse and during post marketing of the product. The mostcommon adverse events observed during the clinical trial were eyeredness, itchy eyes and skin darkening of the eyelid skin. If this lastcomplication occurs, it is important to stop the Latisse. Allergan (themakers of Latisse) also warns of the side effect of iris pigmentationthat has been seen in glaucoma patients (using the main ingredient ofLatisse at much higher doses) but such cases are rare and were notreported during the Latisse clinical trial. I tell patients that this rareside effect is possible but very unlikely. I also advise patients to checkwith their ophthalmologist before using Latisse if there is anyquestion regarding glaucoma or other eye conditions.

To find out more about Latisse, please contact us at Hecker DermatologyGroup at 954-783-2323. Or visit us on-line: www.heckerderm.com. Ouroffice is located in Pompano Beach. New patients are welcome and manyinsurances are accepted. Latisse is dispensed at our office. Insurance doesnot cover Latisse.

Contact lens designs and materials areconstantly being improved. Every majorcompany now has a silicon based lens toincrease oxygen transmission and to help

with dryness. Initial lens materials and designs were only able toincrease oxygen by making the lens very thin or by increasing thewater content. Thin lenses were hard to handle and lenses withhigh water content needed your tears to help maintain their waterlevel. If your tears didn’t have enough moisture, neither did yourlens.

Silicon by its nature allows a tremendous amount of oxygen, anddoesn’t increase the water content of a lens at all. With increasedoxygen there is less corneal swelling and in general a morecomfortable lens. The lens design and its fitting relationship to yourcornea is more important with these lenses since silicon lenses havea higher modulus. This means that they tend to be a little more rigidand can actually be less comfortable it not fit properly to yourcorneal shape.

Most lens designs are now available in silicon materials also.Spherical, astigmatic, and multi focal designs are all available in thesenew materials. Although not available everywhere yet, Vistakon’ssilicon Oasys for Presbyopia lens for example, has shown excellent

promise in early studies that were performed in our office. Thatisn’t to say that some conventional lens designs and materials arenot good for you. Many of my patients still wear some early slightlyless costly designs, very comfortably, all day long. The key is to fitlenses based on your needs, and your eye’s needs. A good contactlens fitter will always take the time to talk with you and to makesure all your needs are met.

The next step in comfort might very possibly come from thesolution the lens is stored in and not the lens itself. Our office iscurrently doing a study for a company soon to be a new player in thecontact lens solution market. Interestingly, different solution formulasso far have resulted in varying degrees of lens comfort late in the day.You might think that the “comfort” of a solution would only have aneffect early in the day when the lens is first placed on your eye. Itseems that solutions might have a significant impact on end of daycomfort as well. If you ever wanted to wear contact lenses or wereonce unsuccessful, lens designs, materials, and solutions can now givealmost everyone a very comfortable, clear outcome.

Remember, everyone has hindsight — protect your eyesight!

Dr. Steven Wigdor, a board certified Optometric Physician, and hisstaff welcome your calls and questions in Lighthouse Point at 954-943-6210. You can also visit them at 3650 N. Federal Hwy in theVenetian Isle Shops or on the web at www.eyecareandeyewear.com


HEALTHY CHOICES

Cookin’ With The CommunityWe encourage those who can perform magic in their kitchens to submit favorite creations that can be enjoyed by readersof our magazine. To submit your recipe, please email us at: [email protected] and type “RECIPE” in the subject line.

Broiled Lamb Chops with Mint ChimichurriFor lamb chops:• 3/4 teaspoon cinnamon • 4 (1-inch-thick) lamb shoulder chops

For mint chimichurri:• 1 to 2 garlic cloves• 2 cups flat-leaf parsley including trimmed stems• 2 cups mint including trimmed stems• 1/3 cup distilled white vinegar• 1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil

For peas:• 1 (10-ounces) package frozen peas• 3 tablespoons water• 2 tablespoons unsalted butterCook chops:Preheat broiler. Stir together cinnamon and 1 1/2 teaspooneach of salt and pepper in a bowl, then rub over chops.Broil in a 4-sided sheet pan 3 to 4 inches from heat,turning once, 8 to 10 minutes total for medium-rare.Meanwhile, make chimichurri and cook peas:With motor running, drop garlic into food processor andfinely chop. Add remaining sauce ingredients and 1/2teaspoon salt and pulse until herbs are finely chopped.Transfer to a bowl.Cook peas in water and butter in a small saucepan overmedium-high heat, covered, stirring once or twice, until justtender, about 3 minutes.Serve chops drizzled with a little chimichurri and serve peasand remaining chimichurri on the side.

Brown Sugar Baked Sweet Potatoes and Acorn Squash

Main ingredients: Butter, Sweet Potato/Yam, Squash

Yield: Makes 8 servings

Ingredients• 2 large sweet potatoes (1 3/4 pounds total), peeled

and sliced crosswise 1/2 inch thick• 1 large acorn squash (3 to 3 1/2 pounds), halved

lengthwise, seeded, and sliced crosswise 1/2 inch thick• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted• 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar• 1 teaspoon grated nutmeg

PreparationPreheat oven to 375°F with racks in upper and lower thirds.Toss sweet potatoes and squash with butter, 1/2 teaspoonsalt, and 1/4 teaspoon pepper. Divide between two 17" x11", 4-sided sheet pans. Bake, switching position of panshalfway through, 25 minutes.Stir together brown sugar and nutmeg. Turn vegetableslices and sprinkle evenly with sugar mixture. Bake untilgolden and tender, 35 to 40 minutes more.Cooks’ note: Vegetables can be baked 1 day ahead andchilled. Reheat in a baking dish, covered, in oven.

Avocado Soup with Herbs, Slivered Radishes, and Pistachios

Main ingredients: Lime, Buttermilk, Cucumber, Pistachio,Yogurt, Radish, Avocado, Herb

Yield: 3 1/2 CupsAvocado pureed with buttermilk (low-fat) and yogurt (withthe cream on top) yields a pale green soup laced withmasses of minced herbs and a fabulous texture.

Ingredients• 2 cups low-fat buttermilk• 1 cup yogurt, preferably whole-milk• 1 large avocado, peeled and pitted• 1 cucumber, peeled and seeded• 1 large garlic clove• Sea salt and freshly ground pepper• 3 slender scallions, white parts plus a bit of the green,

finely minced• 2 tablespoons chopped dill• 1 tablespoon snipped chives• 1 tablespoon minced marjoram or oregano• 1 tablespoon minced tarragon• 1 tablespoon chopped cilantro• 1/2 jalapeño chile, seeded and chopped• Zest and juice of 1 lime• 1/2 teaspoon sweetener, such as agave syrup, to taste

To Finish• Finely sliced chives and chive blossoms• Thinly slivered radishes• Dill, mint, and cilantro sprigs• 1/3 cup shelled pistachios or walnuts

Preparation1. Puree the buttermilk, yogurt, avocado, and a quarter of the

peeled cucumber in a blender until smooth, then pour itinto a bowl.

2. Mash the garlic with 1/2 teaspoon salt and stir it into thepuree along with the scallions, herbs, chile, and lime zest.Season to taste with salt, pepper, lime juice, andsweetener, if needed. Seed and finely dice the remainingcucumber and add to the soup. Cover and refrigerate untilwell chilled. Just before serving, taste and correct theseasonings.

3. Ladle the soup into bowls, then cover the surface with thechives, radishes, herb sprigs, and pistachios.

WE ALWAYS WELCOME YOUR

FAVORITE RECIPES

PLEASE SHARE THEM

WITH YOUR NEIGHBORS!!

62 Lighthouse Point Magazine • www.lhpmag.com62 Lighthouse Point Magazine • www.lhpmag.com

Sheriff Al Lamberti Reports

STAY SAFE THISHOLIDAY SEASONBy Sheriff Al Lamberti


Hot Off the Grill

By John Offerdahl

(a.k.a. The Gridiron Griller)

The men and women of the Broward Sheriff's Office

are committed to keeping Broward County residents

and visitors safe this holiday season and throughout the

year. Following some simple safety tips will help keep

you and your family safe this season.

Too often, opportunistic criminals prey on holiday

shoppers. While you are out making your purchases, stay

alert. Remember to park your car in a well-lit area and

secure valuables inside your trunk or take them with

you. When you return to your vehicle, have your keys in

hand so that you can quickly unlock the door and get

in. You should never carry large amounts of money and

if you go to an ATM for cash, do so during daytime hours

in a safe location.

With the number of vehicles on our roadways and in

crowded parking lots, it is important to practice

patience. Speeding, distractions and alcohol contribute

to the increased number of accidents this time of year. If

you are attending a holiday celebration and plan on

drinking alcohol, designate a driver or take a cab. The

Broward Sheriff’s Office has a zero tolerance policy for

drunk drivers and will be out in force to ensure all of

our roadways are safe.

If you will be leaving home for the holidays and live

in a BSO jurisdiction, I encourage you to sign up for our

free Home Watch program. A deputy or community

service aide will check on your home regularly while

you are on vacation. To sign up for this free service, visit

www.sheriff.org/homewatch. Once you complete the

form, return it to your BSO district office. Before you

leave town, remember to secure your doors, windows,

garage, storage sheds and gates. If possible, leave a

parked car in your driveway. Have the post office hold

your mail and stop all newspaper delivery.

Remember, a few minutes of prevention can save you

from becoming a victim of a crime this holiday season.

On behalf of the men and women of the Broward

Sheriff’s Office, I wish you a safe holiday and very happy

New Year.

PRO BOWL PINEAPPLE CHICKEN

As homage to the previous Pro bowlgames played in Hawaii, I created a grilledpineapple chicken “O-Bob” for this issue’s

featured recipe [O is for Offerdahl!]. I was honored to be selectedto the Pro Bowl in the first 5 of 8 years I played in the NFL. Someof my fondest memories are of spending time with the elite offootball and their families in an idyllic setting like Hawaii. However,South Florida takes the honors this year as Miami hosts the first ProBowl game on mainland soil in over 30 years! That’s a big honorand a lot of pressure, but with South Beach and the beautifulcoastline, we are sure to not disappoint! I know those players willappreciate the shorter flight and hot clubs and restaurants we haveto offer. So, fire up those grills, thread your skewers and prepare tosay Aloha to the Pro Bowl, right here in our own backyard!

PREPMarinade• 1/3 c. fresh lime or lemon juice • 1/4 tsp. pepper• 1/3 c. olive oil • 1 tsp. salt• 6 chicken breasts, cut into 1 1/2" pieces

Combine marinade and chicken pieces in a ziplock for 30 minutes.Salsa• 1 mango (seeded), 1/2" chunks • 1/2 c. chopped fresh cilantro• 1 sweet red pepper, 1/4" chunks • 1/4 c. lime or lemon juice• 1 jalapeno pepper • 1 T. honey(seeded & minced) • 1 tsp. salt

• 1/2 c. red onion chopped fine• 1 to 3 cloves garlic, peeled and chopped

Combine salsa ingredients.PineappleRefrigerate fresh pineapple (cored, skinned & cut in 1" chunks,refrigerate)

READYPreheat grill to medium-high heat.Thread chicken onto water-soaked wooden skewers alternating withpineapple chunks.LETS GRILL!Coat grill grates with non-stick spray and grill over medium-highheat (425˚) for 12 to 15 minutes or until chicken is done, turningand brushing occasionally with remaining marinade. Discardunused marinade. Serve kabobs with jasmine or brown rice andfresh salsa.


IDENTITY THEFT

Don’t Let Santa FraudRuin Your Holidays!By Denise Richardson

Victims of fraud and identity theft lose more than justtheir life savings — they lose their sense of security, theirself-worth, and their inner peace. According to the NationalInstitute of Justice, more than 24 million people will becomevictims of fraud this year. These 24 million people will loseover $40 billion to unscrupulous criminals. Modern-daytechnology has made it easier than ever for con artists toswindle you out of your life savings. Every year, millions ofpeople fall victim to fraud schemes. The lucky ones lose tenor twenty dollars. Unfortunately, the unlucky ones lose theirentire life savings.

How can you protect yourself? Learn how to spot the cons.

The Jury Duty ScamThe Con — The phone rings, you pick it up, and the caller

identifies himself as an officer of the court. He says youfailed to report for jury duty and that a warrant is out foryour arrest. You say you never received a notice. To clear itup, the caller says he’ll need some information for“verification purposes” — your birth date, social securitynumber, maybe even a credit card number to take care ofany “fines and penalties.”

Protect Yourself — This is when you should hang up thephone. It’s a scam. Communities in more than a dozen stateshave issued public warnings about cold calls from peopleclaiming to be court officials seeking personal information.As a rule, court officers never ask for confidential informationover the phone; they generally correspond with prospectivejurors via mail. Facing the unexpected threat of arrest, victimsare caught off guard and may be quick to part with someinformation to defuse the situation.

900 ScamsThe Con — A letter arrives in the mail claiming you have

won a fantastic prize — a car, a boat, or a million dollars. Tofind out what you have won, however, you need to call the900-number listed in the letter. You dial the number andreach a computer that keeps you on the line for ten minutes— at a rate of $4.99 a minute. At the end of the call, yourealize the grand total of your prize equals two dollars.

Protect Yourself — Carefully read through these lettersbefore picking up the phone. If the letter mentions a one-or two-dollar prize, throw it in the garbage. A two-dollarprize is not worth wasting $49.90 on a phone call.

Grandparent ScamThe Con — An elderly person receives a phone call from

someone claiming to be her grandson. This man tells his so-called grandmother that he is in trouble and needs her help.A thief stole his wallet and he can’t afford to pay his rent, orhe has been in a car accident and needs money to pay for his

medical bills. He would call his parents, but they would onlyyell at him and refuse to help. He needs his loving grand -mother to send him thousands of dollars through a moneytransfer company — money that will go straight into thecon artist’s pocket.

Protect Yourself — Never provide financial information tostrangers over the phone or via wire without first investi -gating. Phone your relative to see if he is in trouble — oddsare, he is safe at home. If your elderly neighbors, parents orgrandparents live alone, tell them about this type of scheme.Make sure they know your cell phone number so they canreach you if they ever think you are in trouble.

“I’ve been Robbed” ScamThe Con — The email claims your friends have been

robbed and have had their cell phone and passport stolen.They desperately need money wired to them as they arestranded in another country. In reality, your friend’scomputer has been hacked and the thief now has access totheir contact list. By sending out emails to all people in theiraddress book, they hope someone will fall for the scam andwire money.

Protect Yourself — DO NOT Wire money period. If youreceive an email like this -contact your friend via phone towarn them their computer has been hacked.

Inheritance SchemeThe Con — You receive an email asking for your

assistance; a wealthy businessman has died, and his friendsneed your help to hide his fortune from greedy relatives.The effort on your part will be minimal — all you need todo is provide the number to your bank account, where thebusinessman’s friends will deposit the millions. In exchange,you will receive around 20 percent of the fortune.

Protect Yourself — Once the con artist has your bankinginformation, he could drain your account. Some criminalstake the scam a step further by asking for an up-frontbanking fee. Either way, this scheme could cost youthousands. If you receive an email offering you millions ofdollars for doing nothing, delete it - it is a scam.

It takes years to rebuild bank accounts, but it takes alifetime to rebuild self-esteem and trust. Save yourself thefinancial hardship and emotional turmoil — just say nowhen someone asks you to wire money or divulge personalinformation. Always trust your instincts — if an offer seemstoo good to be true, it probably is.

For more information, tips and scam alerts visit mywebsite and blog at GiveMeBackMyCredit.com

and feel free to contact me at your convenience.


L O C A L B U S I N E S S C A R D D I R E C T O R Y

Cell (954) 242-5872Cell (954) 242-5872


S U P P O R T O U R L O C A L B U S I N E S S E S

Should You Add “Munis” to Your Portfolio?

954-783-6694Robert Friedman AAMS

1827 NE 24th StreetLighthouse Point

FL 33064MEMBER SIPC

[email protected]

www.edwardjones.com

During this election season, you may have theopportunity to vote on something that can affect your cityor state: municipal bonds. However, voting to give yourstate or local government permission to issue municipalbonds doesn’t mean you have to invest in them. Butshould you?

By investing in municipal bonds, or “munis,” you’llreceive regular interest payments that are typicallyexempt from federal income taxes — and possibly stateand local income taxes as well. Consequently, if you’re inan upper tax bracket, you may be especially interested intax-free municipal bonds.

Before purchasing a municipal bond, though, be awarethat some munis may trigger the alternative minimum tax,so consult with your tax advisor before investing. Also, keep in mind that when interest rates rise, the pricesof your bonds can fall, so you could lose principal value.

Municipal bonds may benefit you — so give them some thought.


Reagen Annturns 2 on December 17th

Reiley M.turned 3 on November 12th

Jackson S.turns 1 on December 3rd

Adrianaturned 1 on November 21st

Lawton turned 5 on September 8th

Sawyer turns 8 on December 15th

DESSERT!For all our birthday kids by

showing this page at theCOLDSTONECREAMERYPompano Citi Center

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO YOU!Hey Kids! Born in January

Send us your photos before December 8th!Include your name and birthdate and Email to: [email protected]

and Please type “Lighthouse Point Birthday” in the Subject Line, or mail to: City News Group, LHP Birthday, 3467 17th Terrace, Oakland Park, FL 33309


Hidden Toy HazardsBy John Patterson

An onslaught of product recalls in the pastyear has drawn attention to the fact thatmany of the products we use in our homes

and purchase for our families are not always safe. The toys children playwith are not exempt from these recalls, and in fact, they frequently topthe product recall list. With the Christmas toy buying season almosthere, parents should know the dangers of some products.

More than 550 products were recalled in 2008, and most were toysand cribs. While toys might be designed in the U.S., many are madeoverseas where they don’t have the same standards for safety and quality.Because of numerous recalls, class action lawsuits, and potential dangersto our children, new legislation was passed to increase testing andregulations on these products. The legislation, called the ConsumerProduct Safety Improvement Act, was enacted in Feb. 2009, but thedeadline for compliance with new regulations was extended until nextyear. A client of the local law firm of Balkan & Patterson was requestedto testify in front of Congress, helping develop the new laws.

Essentially, the legislation prohibits the use of lead and certain toxicchemicals in toys and infant products, requiring them to be tested beforeapproved for sale to consumers. Manufacturers and importers of children’sproducts will not need to meet these new requirements until Feb. 10, 2010,but they must meet the lead and phthalates limits, mandatory standardsand other requirements.

An example of the dangers of some toys is a class action lawsuitagainst Mattel, the world’s largest toy importing company. Mattel and

Fisher-Price distributed millions of toys containing lead, which canpoison a child if ingested. The lawsuit settled in October for anestimated $50 million. Another case involves more than 10 millionMagnetix toys, manufactured by MEGA Brands.

Until better regulations are in place for toys, there are some tipsparents can keep in mind when shopping.

• Read Labels: This information gives age and safety recommendationsfor each toy.

• Age Appropriate: Make sure your children’s toys are designed for theirage. If there are younger children in the house, take necessary precautionsto ensure they can’t get a toy that is not made for their age level.

• Small Parts/Magnets: If you have young children, use caution assmall parts or magnets can cause serious injuries. When ingested,magnets can attract each other or a metal object and cause seriousinternal injuries or death.

• Research: Before buying, consult the CPSC website for up-to-dateinformation on recalled products.

John Patterson is a partner in the law firm of Balkan & Pattersonand was involved with the class action case that Mattel settled for $50million. As a parent and Lighthouse Point resident, he works to protectour community, handling personal injury cases, including class actions,product recalls, auto accidents and cases of child / special needs studentabuse. For additional information, please visit www.balkanpatterson.com.

KIDS AT RISK


Commissioner’s Report

Looking Out for District 4 as Broward County’s MayorBy Broward County Mayor and Commissioner Ken Keechl

I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again: it’san awesome responsibility! Last year, mycolleagues honored me by electing me to

be the Vice Mayor of Broward County. I have enjoyed the positionover the last twelve months. On November 17th, they honored meagain by electing me to be the Mayor of Broward County for thenext twelve months. I look forward to the challenge. And make nomistake: in these economic times, it will be a challenge.

First and foremost, I intend to use my position to continue ourshared vision for Broward County. As we have done over the last 3years, we must continue to lower property taxes and to streamlineBroward’s vast governmental structure. We have decreasedBroward’s annual budget by more than $300,000,000.00 since youelected me, and we have eliminated 1300 positions as we operateBroward County as a more efficient business. But our work is notyet done.

In order to recover from this recession, we must see to fruitionour previously approved capital projects: the expansion of oursouthern runway at Fort Lauderdale/ Hollywood InternationalAirport; the expansion of our seaport; the construction of a newdowntown courthouse; and the upgrading and “greening” of ourinfrastructure. These projects will benefit Broward County over the

next 50 years. They will create jobs. But they must be fundedwithout property taxes. Each of these projects can be done. I willmake it my top priority to keep them on track.

Lastly, I was raised to believe that people are basically honest andwant to do the right thing. And I don’t exclude elected officials fromthat view. But you cannot escape the fact that local governmentcurrently has an image problem. And as they say, “perception isreality.” So, I support the work of the Broward Ethics Commission.As I wrote in a recent article, this Committee was created by thevoters in November 2008 and is tasked with bringing forth a Codeof Ethics to be presented to the Broward County Commission. Ifthe Commission fails to adopt the proposed code, it will be placedon the November 2010 ballot for acceptance or rejection byBroward’s voters. I intend to work very closely with this group toenact substantive ethics reform. It’s the right thing to do.

It’s going to be an exciting year. I look forward to beingBroward’s Mayor, but my top priority is being your CountyCommissioner. That’s why you elected me. My best to you and yourfamilies.

KEN KEECHLBroward County Mayor and Commissioner954 357-7004 • www.broward.org/kkeechl

AL’S CORNER

How Reliable Are The Internet RatingsFor Advertisers?By Al Siefert

When you Google Electricians, Electrical Contractors, Plumbers,Air Conditioning Companies an information page will come upshowing information about those companies. Some pages will haveratings with testimonials from customers about the service theyreceived. Of the ones I looked at, there were some really upsetpeople making comments. There were also some positive reviews

that appear to be written by someone to promote their businessby saying good things. Unfortunately, there is no way to be surewhich comments are true. For example, anyone could writesomething negative about a company, even if they never didbusiness with them. When you read a comment like this you wouldprobably move on to the next company.

People who want reliable references should check with theBetter Business Bureau or Angie’s List for a rating. The BetterBusiness Bureau requires the business to be a member. With theirmembership they earn a rating based on comments from theircustomers. With Angie’s List I believe businesses sign up for free, butconsumers must be a member for access to the comments. In eithercase the business has the ability to challenge the complaint or satisfythe customer.

Your friends and neighbors are also good sources forrecommendations. Companies that have been around for a whileshould also be considered as reputable. When you have someoneworking inside your house you should check to be sure that the

company has a service department. Many service companies requirebackground checks of their employees and provide ongoingtraining, uniforms and a drug free workplace policy. They shouldalso arrive to your location in a well marked vehicle. In today’s worldpeople need to be sure that they are safe with anyone they let intotheir home.

While the internet is a way to find companies online, it does notoffer any reference to the quality of the work that they do.

Quality is not just the ability to fix your problem. Quality alsoinvolves how the technician behaves in your home.

We learned this lesson several years ago. We used the son of afriend to fix a toilet at the house. We assumed that he would do agood job for us because he was just starting his own business. Hewas a good plumber, however he was task oriented with more of aconstruction background. His focus was to fix the problem andforgot that he was a guest in our home. He did a good job fixing thetoilet but he used the bathroom hand towel as a rag to wipe hishands. This left a stain that would not come out. Linda, my wife, wasoutraged when she found it and I am still hearing about it.

As a service company, we always try to exceed your expectationsby being on time, respecting your property and paying attention toyour priorities. If you do not know who to call for any type ofservice, call us. We may know someone to recommend.

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You’re Invited to Celebrate

Christmas with Us

Christmas Candlelight Services

December 24th

5:30 p.m. & 7:30 p.m.

Special Christmas Message from

Pastor Dennis to Lighthouse Point

��

Postmaster: Please deliver to addressee or current resident by December 1st, 2009

PRESORTEDSTANDARD

U.S POSTAGEPAID

PERMIT 1169FT. LAUDERDALE, FL

Lighthouse Point Magazine3467 NW 17 Terrace

Oakland Park, FL 33309

december 09 lhp magazine

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