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EstEro | Bonita springs | naplEs
JULY | AUGUST 2009
dollar homes a difference of less than a tenth of a percent. The statistics clearly demonstrate a strong snowball effect: Sales of homes costing $1 million and up are steadily gaining in momentum. They are even keeping up with lower-priced home sales, which were initially thought to be
FEATURED PROPERTIES
Sweet Bay in Shadow Wood at The Brooks, Bonita Springs
offered by:
H.4114 Beautiful 4 bed+den, 4.5 bath, 3474 under air, 4195 total sf, w/stunning European flair throughout in this 2 story home w/ loft, dramatic rod iron/wood curve staircase & master suite on the first floor. Hardwood flooring, crown molding, built-ins, granite in all baths, kitchen & master suite on the first floor. Gourmet kitchen, stainless steel & paneled built-in appliances, gas cook top, French style cabinets w/crown. Gorgeous views to the family room w/wall to wall double French doors leading to the paver patio w/floor to ceiling curtains surrounding, built-in custom gas heated pool/spa all surrounded w/rod iron fence, beautiful tranquil views of the 18th tee & lush landscaping beyond. Offered at $1,250,000. Call Michael 239-777-0473
C.5707 - Gorgeous views of the Gulf and Bay in this 3rd floor end unit w/3 bed, 3.5 bath, 3295 under air, 4215 total sf. Stunning unit in neutral tones, travertine tile, custom built-ins & speaker system thru-out, hardwood floor, plantation shutters, window treatments, speaker system, plus so much more! State-of-the-art kitchen, 42 cherry cabinets, granite countertops, built-in/paneled appliances. Grand living room/dining room w/two wall-wall glass sliders leading to the incredible travertine tiled main terrace. Family room, guest suites, private baths & built-ins all w/entrances to rear balcony. Impressive master suite, w/striking vast entry, two closets, expansive windows & private entry to terrace, offering yet further tranquil views of the Gulf and Bay. Offered at 990,000.
To have Your Home Featured In the Next Issue Call D. Michael Burke, P.A. 239.777.0473
www.CoconutPointRealEstate.com
Website owned and maintained by Michael Burke of John R. Wood REALTORS, Bonita Springs, FL 34134
To:
FT MYERS, FL PERMIT NO 815 PRSRT STD. U.S. POSTAGE
PAID
Healthy Living
Dining Out With Food Allergies
(NUI) - Recently, scientists discovered that the 2009 H1N1 Swine Flu virus is more like the H5N1 avian flu than the historic 1918 pandemic H1N1 Spanish flu strain, and that current mutations of the virus have rendered previous flu vaccines less effective. In a teleconference with colleagues, Dr. Roger Mazlen, an internist in Rosyln Heights, NY, discussed the cur-
Look 20 years ahead in your life, and you will know theres no success without health, says fitness expert Shawn Phillips, author of Strength for Life and ABSolution: The Practical Guide To Building Your Best Abs. You cant sacrifice your health for your success. They are interdependent goals. Health and fitness can impact your life, relationships and business ventures. Physical fitness can increase mental and emotional health, giving you more energy and a clearer mind. Phillips recommends using the following fitness goals to launch your personal success: Set goals for the next 90 days, as well as a vision for the next year. Your vision is your ultimate destination - your personal definition of a strong life. Goals form the steps you need to take to realize your vision. Dont narrow your goals to just fitness, but also personal and professional goals. That way, youre not only getting into shape, but also improving your ability to excel in life. Establish two quantifiable goals, such as losing 10 pounds of fat or gaining three pounds of muscle, and two mental health goals, like improving a relationship or pursuing new interests.
The Publisher, Maximum Impact Publishing is independently owned and operated and is not affiliated with any real estate association, board or company. Opinions expressed are those of the writers and not necessarily those of the Publisher or advertisers. The Publisher regrets any inaccuracies contained herein, but accepts no liability for damages arising out of errors in advertisements beyond the amount paid for the space actually occupied by the advertisement in which the error occurred. Errors must be brought to the newspaper immediately and before any subsequent insertion of the advertisement. We reserve the right to restrict all ads to their proper classifications and to edit or reject any copy.
Find ways to reinvigorate your mind and body, including eliminating refined foods, sugar and empty calories from your diet, getting restful sleep and taking up light exercise to help you get used to moving. When you are strong, healthy and alive with energy, you are more effective, more confident and more in control, says Phillips in an interview with SUCCESS Magazine. Your results in life will improve as you do.
verb 1 [ trans. ] prepare (food, a dish, or a meal) by combining and heating the ingredients in various ways. shall I cook dinner tonight?
Barbeque Chicken
Ingredients: Dry Rub: Combine rub into small bowl and mix thoroughly 1/4 cup each of light brown sugar, ground black pepper & sweet paprika 2 tablespoons each of chili powder & kosher salt 1 tablespoon garlic powder Mop Sauce: 1/2 cup apple cider or apple juice 1/4 cup beer 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce 2 teaspoons dry rub (see above) Directions: Clean chicken. Remove back bone, keel bone and wish bone. Make a small hole in the skin at the bottom of the breast which will then be used to hold the legs up snug with the chicken. Pour 2 Tblsps. of canola oil on the chicken and coat both sides with the dry rub. Place the chicken on the barbeque (but not directly over the burners). Use a smoke box on 1 side of the barbeque with the burners on at about 300 degrees and place the chicken on the other side of the barbeque with the burners on that side off. Baste the chicken with the mop sauce about every 20-25 minutes. NOTES: Only flip chicken once about half way through the cooking time (total cooking time is around 2 hours if not directly on the burner). Check the temp of the chicken, at 165 degrees it is done. Let sit for about 5 min. after your pull it off before you cut into it.
Cheesecake
Ingredients: Cake: 1 1/2 cups of graham cracker crumbs 2 tablespoons sugar 3 tablespoons melted butter (or margarine) 19 ounces of softened cream cheese (3 packages) 1 cup sugar 2 teaspoons of lemon rind. 1/4 teaspoon vanilla 3 eggs 9 spring form pan The glaze requires: 1 cup of mashed fruit 1 cup sugar 3 tablespoons cornstarch 1/3 cup water Directions: Preheat the oven to 350 degrees Mix the crumbs and the sugar together VERY well. Add the melted butter and stir until the crumbs are coated. Pour the crumbs into the spring form pan and form the crust. Make sure the sides and bottom are coated very well. Carefully put the crust in the heated oven for 10 minutes. Note: It should turn a bit darker, and will hold its form quite a bit better. Cool. Note: Lower temperature to 300 degrees. Beat cream cheese with electric mixer until smooth. Gradually add sugar while beating. Add the lemon peel and vanilla. Beat each egg in one at a time. Pour the mixture onto the crust and place into the oven at 350 degrees. Cook for 1 hour. Place it in the fridge for a few hours. Glaze: Mix all ingredients in a saucepan and heat it up until it starts to boil. Note: You can mix in fresh fruit with the glaze on the cheesecake When the cake and glaze have cooled down, remove the sides of the spring form pan, pour the glaze on and pile on the leftover fresh fruit.
Destination Information
(NUI) - Bed-and-breakfasts arent just for the old folks anymoreWere seeing a lot of travelers in their twenties now, said Katherine Brown, proprietor of the Bloomsbury Inn in Camden and a board member of the 74-member South Carolina Bed and Breakfast Association. Theyre like anyone else ... they appreciate the per-
sonal touch. Bed-and-Breakfasts offer a great deal of service at a better price point than people originally think. Romantic getaways are a particular specialty. Well get the chocolate, arrange the fine dining, put the rose petals on the bed, that whole host of things that makes a stay
1. Pick the right campsite. Backyard or backwoods? Chances are, your backyard is a wonderland that youve never truly experienced, and camping there allows you to do so without forfeiting your creature comforts. And its free, making this a great first option. But if youre in the mood for a little more adventure and the idea of getting away inspires you, check out your local campgrounds and parks. Many campsites are available, including prime waterfront sites if the deep woods are not your thing, with basic fees of less than $20 per night.
2. Choose the right gear. Borrow or buy? If youre staycationing for the first time, borrowing camping gear from a friend is a great idea. It will allow you to try it out without risk and gain a better idea of what features you like when it does come time for you to buy. If you are ready to buy, remember that although purchasing gear is the most expensive part of camping, it is just a one-time expense and with care, your gear will last for years to come at little or no additional cost. Choosing a quality tent is important, so resist the temptation to buy an inexpensive one; with tents, you typically get what you pay for, and if your bargain tent ends up leaking during a sudden storm, youll regret the entire experience. Remember, if you need to store extra gear, youre better off choosing a tent that sleeps more people than you need or that includes added storage space. When purchasing sleeping bags, look for bags that are rated to the lowest temperature youre likely to see. To make the campsite more user-friendly and comfortable, consider adding camp pads beneath your sleeping bag and additional furniture such as tables, folding hammocks, cots and chairs.
3. Bring the right essentials and be creative. Be creative - make cooking a family affair by bringing your own portable grill and easy camp recipes from the Web. Let the kids share in the cooking fun by toasting marshmallows and making smores for dessert. For personal care, most family campgrounds offer basic amenities, although sometimes they can be limited, so stick to bringing the basic toiletries but skip the extras, like blow dryers. Lastly, remember to bring these inexpensive items that become absolutely priceless in the outdoors: first aid kit, flashlight, pocket knife, charcoal and starter fuel, trash bags, dish soap and for the kids - cards, books, board games and ghost stories for having fun no matter what the weather brings.
Grandezza, Estero
C.4581 - 2+den, 2 bath, 1727 under air, Carriage home in private gated golfing community. Vaulted ceilings, tile in main living areas. Kitchen w/breakfast bar opens into the comfortable living room offering fantastic views of the large lake & golf course. Great centrally located community, with beautiful 53,000 sf club house. Offered at $209,000.
Call Michael 239-777-047
L.680 Build your own custom estate home on this large lot on the 10th fairway in this exclusive golfing community, w/two golf courses designed by Nicklaus & Player. Private Community offers miles of scenic walking trails, biking paths, parks gardens, 47,000 sf clubhouse, HarTru tennis courts, fitness club, dining & has hosted the ACE Group Classic & PGA champions Tour! Offered at $129,000. Call Michael 239-777-0473.
market niche for your home will also help the sale go faster. Contact Michael Burke Michael@CoconutPointRealEstate.com for a free CMA on your home.
With this service, we look at all the factors that might influence the value of your property, and come up with a price thats guaranteed to attract buyers. Our CMA includes a thorough inspection of your home, research on other sold properties in the area, and tips on how to quickly make your home more attractive some of our findings here could bring as much as five dollars in extra sales price for every dollar you invest. By the end of our CMA, youll have a checklist of strategies to sell your home for the highest value possible. Putting this kind of care into pricing and finding the
Pricing Factors
ASKING PRICE
Studies show that price accounts for 80 per cent of the effectiveness of any real estate marketing campaign. Thats why its imperative to price your SW Florida home at fair market value right from the start. With this approach, youll often find that the first offer on your home is your best offer. The figure below illustrates that only homes priced at market value (or below) appeal to the largest group of buyers. Over pricing your SW Florida home shrinks the prospective buyer pool by more than 50 per cent. It further illustrates that a property priced just 15 per cent above the market value appealed to none of the qualified buyer pool.
10%
PERCENTAGE OF BUYERS
Time on market can also significantly impact the value of your home. Your property will attract the most interest from buyers and real estate agents when it first appears on the market, with activity decreasing as the market time increases. As the chart shows, the most opportune time to generate a sale on your SW Florida home is three to seven weeks after listing it with a real estate agent.
moneymatters
6 | July | August 2009
Farris adds that most consumers find the cost of scheduling to be very reasonable. For example, to cover a $3,000 ring costs about $30 a year on a policy from QBE Regionals General Casualty or Unigard brands. When deciding which items to schedule, the experts say to consider anything valued over $1,000
or any group collectively valued over $2,000 (think china set). Schedule items you couldnt afford to replace on your own, Farris says. And consult with your independent insurance agent to make sure your most prized possessions are adequately protected.
Get Puzzled
Whats a math challenge you ask?
A math challenge is group of numbers formed in a block filled with addition, subtraction, multiplication and division. Each number is only used once. Each row is a math equation. Each column is a math equation. Some of the numbers are missing. You fill in the missing numbers.
Answers on page 14
Compliments of www.WuzzlesandPuzzles.com
Use the numbers 1 through 9 to complete the equations. Each number is only used once. Each row is a math equation. Each column is a math equation. Remember that multiplication and division are performed before addition and subtraction.
Phrase Scramble 1
Unscramble the tiles to reveal a message. Hint: Famous Lines from Famous Things
Crossword
Answers on page 14
The objective is to insert letters in the boxes to satisfy only one condition: each row, column and 3 x 3 box must contain the letters A through I exactly once. What could be simpler?
Answers on page 14
Compliments of www.sudokucollection.com
Across 1- Nabokov novel; 5- Chieftain, usually in Africa; 9- Autocratic Russian rulers; 14- Hindu music; 15- Ballot choice; 16- The number system with base 8; 17- Epic narrative poem; 18- Conforming to a custom; 20- 3.26 light years; 22- According to; 23- Nailed obliquely; 24- Latin I word; 26- Agitated state; 28- Discoverer of America; 32- Metamorphic rock; 36- Actress Gardner; 37- Winged; 39- Frog sound; 40- Freeway access; 42- Eject; 44- Eye sore; 45- Pong maker; 47- Chou ___; 49- Black bird; 50- Shipworm; 52- Military post; 54- Travel on water;
56- Streetcar; 57- Mid-month times; 60- Barrett of Pink Floyd; 62- Feature; 66- Conveying to destination; 69- He sang about Alice; 70- Sheeplike; 71- A big fan of; 72- It may be floated; 73- Feudal lord; 74-All the Way lyricist Sammy; 75- Bang-up; Down 1- Get ready; 2- California wine region; 3- Borodins prince; 4- Capital of the Bahamas; 5- Capable of being evoked; 6- Crowd; 7- ___ boy!; 8- Staggers; 9- Mazel ___; 10- Disperses; 11- ___ extra cost; 12- Contest, ethnicity; 13- Dog-powered snow vehicle; 19- Pealed;
21- Anarchist Goldman; 25- Blandly urbane; 27- Business abbr.; 28- 200 milligrams; 29- Egg-shaped; 30- Trumans birthplace; 31- Sharp pain; 33- Little bits; 34- Decline; 35- Loose coil of yarn; 38- Acclaim; 41- Urgent; 43- Seasoning plant; 46- Agency of the United Nations; 48- Some nest eggs; 51- Seine feeder; 53- An African antelope; 55- Song part; 57- Billy ___ had a hit song with White Wedding; 58- Hindu mother goddess; 59- Night author Wiesel; 61- Actress Merrill; 63- Switch ending; 64- Extended family unit; 65- Accent; 67- Flight formation; 68- Advanced degree?;
H.4085 3+Den, 3.5 bath, 3154 under air, 5701 total sf stunning courtyard home. Attention to detail and fabulous upgrades thru-out. Surround sound, built-in entertainment center, state-of-the-art security system, gourmet kitchen, granite, tile, hardwood floors, tray ceilings, faux paint, designer window treatments, plantation shutters, built-in entertainment center & much morePaver Courtyard w/private cabana, built-in gas heated pool & flower beds. Offered at $899,000. Call Michael 239-777-0473
Grandzza, Estero
H.3936 Estate home w/abundance of upgrades & details thru-out. 3 bed+Den, 3 bath 2824 under air, 4154 total sf w/separate formal living & dining room. Tile on diagonal, tray ceilings, crown molding. Gourmet kitchen, w/ granite counter-tops, 42 maple cabinets w/ crown molding, built-in appliances, designer cook top hood, nook with large miter window offering outstanding views of golf course & lake. Incredible lanai w/pavers, stunning pillars, finished ceiling & built-in heated pool & spa. $679,000. Call Michael 239-777-0473
Choose success.
EstEro | Bonita s
Grandzza, Estero
H.2168 3+Den, 3 bath Mediterranean style great room open floor plan, with 2481 underair and 3282 total sq ft. Coffered,volume ceilings, gourmet kitchenwith granite counter-tops, and upgraded tile. Home offered at$519,000 with a beautiful lakeview located in a private gated golfing community. Call Michael 239-777-0473
Few real estate agents are as driven as Mich committees, this multi-million dollar produce involved. Whether you are selling or buying, state-of-the-art marketing methods, integrity satisfaction. His drive to succeed is tempere
Grandzza, Estero
H.2908 Spectacular open great room floor plan, with 3 Bed+Den, 3 bath, 2939 under air, 3925 total sq ft. Many added touches in this designer decorated home for a casual lifestyle with custom features throughout. Enjoy the kitchen w/state-of-the-art builtin appliances, 42 wood cabinetry, granite counter tops. Offered at $979,000 w/custom pool w/views of a lake, golf course and woods located in a private gated community. Call Michael 239-777-0473
H. 3630 - 2+Den, 2 bath, 2000 under air, 3627 total sq. ft. Faux finishes, window treatments, chair railings, crown molding, tile, hardwood floors.. endless upgrades. Kitchen, granite countertop/backsplash, cabinets w/crown molding. Expansive sliders from great room to lanai w/built-in pool w/tropical views & lake beyond. Offered at $419,000. Call Michael 239-777-0473
H.3582 3 Bed+Den, 3.5 Bath, 3014 under air, 5693 total sf Courtyard home w/ beautiful expansive views of lake, golf course & woods. Numerous upgrades thruout, crown molding, plantation shutters, tile, hardwood floors, custom built-ins, Bose surround sound. Stunning gourmet kitchen, w/granite countertops, 42 cherry cabinets w/crown molding, decorative tile. Offered at $759,000. Call Michael 239-777-0473
Grandzza, Estero
H.3999 3+Den, 3 bath, 2493 under air, 3500 total sf. Rich in detail & incredible views of large lake & golf course beyond. Tile, tray ceilings w/crown, archways, window treatments. Kitchen, 42 cabinets, granite counter tops, nook w/miter window. Lanai w/pillars, built-in pool & pool bath. Offered at $599,000. Call Michael 239-777-0473
Grandzza, Estero
H.3817 3 Bed+Den, 2 bath, 2207 under air, 4027 total sq. ft. Tile on diagonal, window treatments, accented painted walls, tray ceilings w/crown molding, stunning archways thru-out. Gourmet kitchen, 42 raised paneled cabinets, pantry w/wine cooler, nook w/mitered glass. Great private guest suite w/bath leading to the large lanai w/built-in pool. Offered at $449,000. Call Michael 239-777-0473
Grandzza, Estero
H.3625 - 3 Bed+Den, 3 bath, 2455 under air, 4046 total sq. ft courtyard home w/Tiki Bar. Great for entertaining w/builtin pool & spa. Numerous upgrades thruout.Tile, crown molding, blinds, topelighting, state-of-the-art kitchen. Discounted golf membership & golf cart also for sale. Offered at $499,000. Call Michael 239-777-0473
C.5318 3 Bed, 3.5 bath, 2665 under air, 3225 total sf. End unit residence w/tropical views of Estero Bay, golf course and wooded preserve. Numerous upgrades. Gourmet kitchen, built-in stainless appliances, upgraded cabinets/drawers. Great Room w/expansive solar tinted windows, floor to ceiling glass sliders leading to the incredible tiled terrace. Luxurious master suite and bath w/double sink granite vanity and roman style tub surrounded in tile. Offered at $599,900. Call Michael 239-777-0473
C.5257 - 19th floor 3 bed, 3.5 bath, 3295 under air, 4215 total sf w/breathtaking panoramic views of the Bay & Gulf of Mexico. Designer decorated 10 ceilings, crown molding, plantation shutters, window treatments, tray ceilings, granite countertops, state-of-the-art kitchen, custom artists murals. Must see to truly appreciate the beauty & views of this residence. Residence is one of only 13 units offering a private indoor separate two-car garage w/adjoining large A/C storage room, $945,000. Call Michael 239-777-0473
springs | naplEs
Choose Michael.
hael Burke. A member of numerous local real estate er keeps tabs on the local market by staying intimately , Michael brings to the table strong negotiation skills, y, and the ambition it takes to achieve 100 percent ed only by his understanding of his clients needs.
C.5016 - First floor turnkey immaculate 3 Bed, 2 bath, 1627 under air, 2007 total sq. ft. condo Blinds thru-out, tile, carpet, double door entry to bedroom/ den. Large kitchen w/raised paneled cabinets & crown molding, comfortable living room w/ spectacular views of lake & golf course. Master bedroom, large walk-in closet, private entry to the lanai. Offered at $299,000 furnished. Call Michael 239-777-0473
Grandzza, Estero
C.5674 - 3+Den, 2 bath 2nd floor Carriage Home with 2387 under air, 2860 total sf w/bundled golf in this beautiful Mediterranean inspired community. Tile, berber carpet, hardwood floor, window blinds thru-out. Kitchen w/42 maple paneled cabinets w/crown molding. Sliders from living room to lanai with beautiful tropical views. Offered at $299,000 partly furnished. Call Michael 239-777-0473
V.1238 - Mediterranean style villa w/3 bed+den, 3 bath, 2376 under air, 3712 total sf, w/master suite on 1st floor. Stunning two story ceilings, plantation shutters, tile on diagonal. Private 2nd floor bedroom, kitchenette & loft looking down to living room and gourmet kitchen w/stainless steel appliances, cabinets w/crown molding, granite countertops. Expansive wall-wall sliders leading to the lanai w/private custom built-in pool and views of expansive lake. Offered at $499,000. Call Michael 239-777-0473
C.5684 - 3 Bed, 2 bath end unit 1642 under air, 2010 total sf. Designer decorated in a neutral tropical dcor. Great features, tile main living, faux finished accent walls, window treatments, radio/intercom thru-out, plus more. Expansive sliders in living room with entry to the screened tiled lanai offering beautiful tropical views of large lake and golf course. Offered at 264,900 furnished. Call Michael 239-777-0473
Grandzza, Estero
C.5026 - Turnkey, 2 Bed, 2 Bath, 1209 under air, 1428 total sq. ft. first floor unit, tile in main living areas, neutral tones & decorative window treatments Perfect for the avid golfer, w/views of the golf course/lake from the living room, lanai & master bedroom. Wonderful bundled golf community, with numerous amenities. Offered at $239,900. Call Michael 239-777-0473
H.3837 2 Bed + Den, 2 bath 1750 under air, 3539 total sq. ft. Views of the 17th fairway w/tropical landscaping surrounding. Upgraded w/tile main living areas, tile inlays, blinds, crown molding, chair railings. Large sliders thru-out in living room, breakfast nook, master suite leading to the lanai w/paver, built-in heated pool & outstanding views beyond. Offered $479,900. Call Michael 239-777-0473
H.3826 - 2 Bed+Den, 2 bath 2000 under air, 3449 total sq. ft. Decorated in neutral tones w/relaxing Tommy Bahama Dcor. Tile on diagonal, tray ceilings, crown molding, plantation shutters, window treatments, high ceilings. Automatic roll down shutters front/ rear & new high efficiency A.C w/extended warranty. Sliders leading from greatroom, kitchen nook & master suite to Lanai w/solar heated built-in pool & flower beds w/tranquil views of lake & landscape beyond. Offered $419,000. Call Michael 239-777-0473
Grandzza, Estero
H.3828 3 Bed, 3 bath 1878 under air, 3938 total sq. ft. Private guest Cabana, spacious kitchen/nook, center island, cabinets w/crown molding & large sliders opening to the courtyard w/pavers, builtin heated pool & spa. Tile in main living areas, intercom, blinds, high ceilings thruout. Master bedroom & greatroom with separate entrances to the screened lanai. Offered $419,000. Call Michael 239-777-0473
Grandzza, Estero
H.3620 Beautiful designer decorated 4 Bed+Den, 4.5 bath, 3495 under air, 4867 total sq. ft. Estate home w/countless upgrades. Tile on diagonal, tray ceilings, rope lighting, window treatments. Formal living, dining room & den w/double door entry w/ stunning built-in. Gourmet kitchen, builtin appliances. 42 cabinets w/crown molding, family room w/expansive corner sliders opens the room to the lanai w/tropical wooded views beyond. Built-in pool/spa & grill, w/separate guest suite entry w/private bath off the lanai. Offered at $899,900. Call Michael 239-777-0473
Grandzza, Estero
C.5305 3 Bed + Den, 4.5 bath, 4068 under air, 4988 total sf. Decorator ready residence in an exclusive community w/panoramic views of the Gulf & Bay. Private elevator, vestibule, tray ceilings, crown molding. Kitchen w/built-in stainless appliances, granite countertops, custom 42 cabinets. Master suite w/private entry to terrace & marble baths. Offered at $1,150,000 Call Michael 239-777-0473
W Florida Homes or Call D. Michael Burke, p.a. 239.777.0473 for Additional Information
verb 1 [ trans. ] prepare (food, a dish, or a meal) by combining and heating the ingredients in various ways. shall I cook dinner tonight?
Beef Pochero
Ingredients: 1/2 kilo stewing beef, cut into cubes 1 small head of a cabbage, quartered 1/4 kilo Chinese cabbage (pechay) 2 medium sized potatoes, quartered 5 plantains peeled and sliced in the middle 1 big can of pork and beans 1/2 cup tomato paste 2 cups water 1 small onion sliced 3 cloves garlic minced salt and pepper to taste Directions: Fry the plantains until slightly golden brown. Take off the oil and set aside. Saut the garlic and onions. Add in the beef. Saut until it changes color. Season with some salt and pepper. Add tomato paste and water Mix and let it boil. Cover and simmer over low medium heat until beef is tender. Once the beef is tender, add in the potatoes. Let it simmer some more until the potatoes are cooked. Add in the rest of the ingredients - veggies, pork and beans and plantains. Note: just pile them in and cover for a few minutes allowing the veggies to wilt a bit. Gently mix them until ingredients are well incorporated into the sauce.
In and Out
Water-conserving, money-saving tips for summer gardens
* Groom soil for optimum water absorption and retention. The U.S. Department of Agricultures Natural Resources Conservation Service recommends adding water-retaining organic material to your soil. * Look for alternative water sources other than the outdoor tap such as collecting the water that drains from your air conditioner. Consider collecting roof runoff in a rain barrel for use in flower beds and vegetable gardens. * Irrigate efficiently with low-volume irrigation systems and smart watering practices. Many communities now require all newly built homes to use low-volume irrigation in their landscapes. On average, micro sprinklers and drip irrigation uses 80 to 90 percent less water than traditional irrigation systems. To learn more about low-volume irrigation, visit www.misterlandscaper.com. For more information on water conservation, go to www.nrcs.usda.gov. * Design your landscaping to minimize evaporation. Windbreaks and fences slow the movement of the wind over the ground and the evaporation it causes. (ARA) - Summer 2009 may be a bit less dry than last year in some areas of the country, according to the National Weather Services Seasonal Drought Outlook. But it still makes sense, both environmentally and economically, to conserve water as much as possible in your gardening and landscaping efforts. Conserving water makes sense environmentally, and can also help your family reduce your water utility bill this summer. Here are some tips for conserving water and saving money by reducing your water bill in your corner of planet. * Choose drought-resistant native plants for your landscaping needs. From ornamental grasses to shrub roses, many drought-tolerant native species can be found in your geographic region that offer bright color and visual appeal.
(ARA) - Soothing hot tubs have become a favored home improvement that promotes relaxation and provides a sanctuary from everyday pressures. But how do you find the hot tub thats right for you? Consider these factors before making your decision: 1. Capacity Consider your family size and how often you expect to entertain friends and relatives. Seating options typically range from one person to seven. 2. Jets One of the big advantages of factory-manufactured hot tubs is the variety of jet types. Over the long term, you will appreciate the different types of massage for relaxation and recovery - so look for hot tubs that offer a wide variety of jet types, not just the total number of jets. 3. Entertainment Look for spas with practical entertainment features such as stereos with integrated memory to store digital music, USB ports
docking stations for your iPod, MP3 plugs and subwoofers. 4. Size and Space How large is your backyard or patio? If you have limited room or a small access gate, consider models that are less than 30 inches tall or models with a small footprint. 5. Construction Select a hot tub with full-foam insulation to ensure heat retention. Inexpensive models without foam will cost more over time to operate. Also look at the skirting/cabinetry as it is important to the overall look. 6. Covers Make sure that your hot tub comes with an insulating cover and be sure to utilize cover locks to keep children out of the spa when adults are not supervising. 7. Manufacturers Not all hot tubs are created equal, so choose a brand with a local authorized dealer for service and a track record for making quality products.
* If youve never had your deck professionally inspected, make an appointment today. * If you find your deck is not safe to enjoy, NADRA advises taking immediate action to have it repaired or rebuilt as necessary. A key element of enjoying your deck for years to come is making sure it is safe and code compliant. When hiring a deck builder, there is more to consider than just price. NADRA recommends homeowners contact their city or county building department to speak with an inspector knowledgeable about deck construction. For more information visit www.nadra.org.
Feature Columnist
This column is produced by the Financial Planning Association and provided by Al Procaccino, a member of FPA and Certified Financial Planner with Castle Financial.
www.castlefinancial.com
Retirement savings: Given the state of the economy, its not a bad time to review your retirement funds and your current investment allocation. If you are on schedule to max out your contributions to your company retirement plan this year, great. But dont forget to check your other retirement accounts to see if youll have enough cash on hand to contribute the maximum in each account by their respective deadlines next year.
Health and health insurance: Increasingly, what we pay for health insurance will be tied to the state of our health. While the weather is good, commit to a plan to walk or hit the gym a specific number of hours a week. Many insurers reset premiums at mid-year in a rising cost environment, so make sure youre ready to
Spending: Either on your computer or on paper, take the time to figure out where youre moneys going. A look at the last six months of spending may reveal opportunities to reduce spending and redirect money toward more necessary goals. Reserve fund: Most financial experts encourage you to have between three and six months of living expenses in an emergency fund. If you dont have that minimum, go back to your spending review and see where you can start socking money away. College savings: If you are saving for your childs education or your own, check to see if youre on track with the goals you made for the year. Its also a good idea to read the latest news on financial aid since schools change their financial aid policies annually. Even if your kids still in
Special goals: If your car is suddenly looking like it will need to be replaced or if this might be the last year for your furnace, see if you can direct more money into a reserve fund to cover replacement costs or at least a heavy down payment. If theres a vacation you want to take by the end of the year or a special household purchase you want to make, focus on the cash youll set aside to make that happen. Of course, if you have credit card debt rolling over from one month to the other, maybe that should be your initial focus.
Credit: If you havent set a schedule for receiving your three credit reports throughout the year, do it now. You have the right to get all three of your credit reports from Experian, TransUnion and Equifax once a year for free. You can do so by ordering them at www.annualcreditreport.com. By staggering receipt each of your credit reports at different points in the year, youll get a continuous picture of how your credit picture looks. Also, youll have the opportunity to focus on possible errors in a single report, which will give the other two credit agencies time to update their files.
(ARA) - As summer rolls around, you may find yourself getting that familiar anxious feeling in the pit of your stomach. No, not just because it is time to slip into a swimsuit (thats an entirely different issue to contend with). Youre probably getting antsy thinking about all the money you are going to spend at home while the kids are on summer vacation.
Dishwashers are a great convenience, but that convenience comes at a price. Dont run your machine unless it is completely full. Also, consider opening the door of your dishwasher when it hits the drying cycle so your dishes air dry and you save money. Re-think your routine and old habits.
But shake off those blues and face the sunshine. Hannah Keeley, lifestyle expert and host of the PBS program Hannah, Help Me! offers easy ways to cut costs and still enjoy a cool, comfortable summer with your family. Be appliance smart. Clothes dryers are notorious for sucking up a lot of the energy used in your
No need to take long showers after a day at the pool or beach. Pick up a timer and set a time limit for every person in the family (yes, even the teenagers). Five minutes per person should do, not to mention help prevent your family from pouring money down the drain. Turn off the water when conditioning hair, shaving or brushing teeth to further conserve energy. Even when they are not in use, electronics like stereos, TVs and DVD players continue to drain energy. Those commonly found, bulky wall wart plugs that feel warm to the touch even if the device is turned off
Keeley reminds us that in just a few simple steps, you can have more fun, enjoy your family, and save some serious money this summer. And it all starts at home, Keeley says.
MarKEt rEport
EstEro | Bonita springs | naplEs
CoconutPointRealEstate.com
Michael@CoconutPointRealEstate.com | 239-777-0473
CoMMuNitY addREss
bedrooms
COPPERLEAF Wisteria Pointe 23600 Wisteria Pointe Dr, #905 Caraway Lakes 23320 Caraway Lakes Dr LIGHTHOUSE BAY AT THE BROOKS Lighthouse Bay 10831 Halfmoon Shoal Rd, #101 Lighthouse Bay 10751 Halfmoon Shoal Rd, #201 Lighthouse Bay 23741 Old Port Rd, #14204 SHADOWWOOD AT THE BROOKS Morningside 23021 Rosedale Dr, #202 Oak Strand 9359 Oak Strand Dr Lake Forest At Shadow Wood 9570 Lakebend Preserve Ct SPING RUN AT THE BROOKS Hidden Lakes 23770 Clear Spring Ct, #1402 Streamside 9010 Spring Run Blvd, #706 Autumn Lake 23546 Sandycreek Ter, #510 GRANDEZZA Grande Estates 20050 Legacy Ct Sabal Palm 20141 Seagrove St, #306 Cypress Cove 20048 Seadale Ct PELICAN LANDING Palm Colony 24627 Ivory Cane Dr, #201 Pelican Landing 25044 Ridge Oak Dr THE COLONY Palermo 4875 Pelican Colony #1101 Merano 23761 Merano Ct, #102 MEDITERRA Brendisi 29111 Brendisi Way, #202 Celebrita 16465 Celebrita Ct Lucarno 16615 Cortona Ln RAPALLO AT COCONUT POINT Rapallo 8600 Via Rapallo Dr E, #106 Rapallo 8549 Via Garibaldi Cir, #203
full bath
Half bath
Living area
Year built
private pool
private spa
List price
3 Bed 3+Den 2+Den 3 Bed 3 Bed 2+Den 2+Den 4+Den 2+Den 2 Bed 2+Den 4+Den 2+Den 2+Den 3 Bed 3+Den 3 Bed 3 Bed 3+Den 4+Den 3+Den 2+Den 3 Bed
2 2 2 2 2 2 2 5 2 2 2 3 2 2 2 3 3 2 3 4 3 2 2
0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 1 1 1 0 1 1 0 0
1845 2231 1548 2264 1402 2040 2000 4480 1513 1209 1792 3217 1540 2000 2112 3329 3240 2060 2873 4164 3824 1706 2584
2001 2002 2002 2000 2000 2000 2001 2007 2001 1998 2000 2002 2001 2004 1995 2000 2002 2004 2006 2005 2006 2006 2007
$299,000 $549,000 $184,900 $269,000 $179,999 $355,000 $435,000 $1,700,000 $224,900 $160,900 $344,500 $1,095,000 $198,900 $410,000 $336,900 $775,000 $849,000 $345,000 $699,000 $1,220,000 $1,295,000 $315,000 $379,900
$275,000 $525,000 $175,000 $235,000 $174,000 $330,000 $408,500 $1,700,000 $211,000 $160,000 $335,000 $950,000 $190,000 $390,000 $322,000 $740,000 $765,000 $300,000 $690,000 $1,157,000 $1,150,000 $272,000 $330,000
$149 $235 $113 $104 $124 $162 $204 $379 $139 $132 $187 $295 $123 $195 $152 $222 $236 $146 $240 $278 $301 $159 $128
92% 96% 95% 87% 97% 93% 94% 100% 94% 99% 97% 87% 96% 95% 96% 95% 90% 87% 99% 95% 89% 86% 87%
1-Jun-09 19-May-09 3-Jun-09 1-Jun-09 20-May-09 26-May-09 22-May-09 18-May-09 15-Jun-09 10-Jun-09 15-May-09 12-Jun-09 3-Jun-09 1-Jun-09 28-May-09 26-May-09 29-May-09 15-May-09 28-May-09 27-May-09 19-May-09 9-Jun-09 15-May-09
130 299 72 85 64 116 219 427 209 74 81 78 221 125 74 146 85 78 85 81 747 72 112
To view more closed details visit www.CoconutPointRealEstate.com and click on Market Reports
Michael Burke is one of the most thorough, innovative, caring and creative realtors we have ever dealt with. We whole heartedly recommend Michael and his team. His professionalism and dedication to serving his clients needs is the Ultimate real estate experience. - Darlene and Don Polyschuk (Toronto Canada) Having purchased and or sold over one dozen homes in the last 20 years, I found Michael to be unique among the realtors I have dealt with in the past. Like many others, Michael has a comprehensive understanding of the southwest Florida real estate market that serves his clients well, which is compelling given the current economic climate. What sets him apart is the high level of integrity and the attention to detail that we found to be part of our transaction. I would solidly recommend Michael Burke to anyone looking to sell or purchase property. Matthew & Regina Staudt (Upper Saddle River, NJ )
Leslie Maloney
Rich Mathews
Call 992-8896
Problem Solving
Great Summer Looks
Looking Like New
One of the best ways to stay cool and stylish this season is to layer sheer, lightweight tops. Layers add dimension and levels, and make you look put together and in the know with little to no effort. Keep the palette soft and neutral for a light, airy style. Youll love the ease and comfort of this simple trend. You can easily slim down your look by combining bright colors with contrasting dark colors. Draw attention to areas you want to play up by wearing bright hues like pinks and yellows, and use darker colors to play down areas youd prefer not to highlight. Its an instant makeover at no cost. Moms and dads can let kids get creative when picking out clothes from their closet. Mixing and matching colors, patterns and prints is a great style for kids this season. Parents can feel comfortable knowing their kids creative pairing of clothing is right on trend. When shopping your closet, its important to keep your clothes in great shape. Since many families are heading outdoors in the warm weather, theyll be more likely to get dirtier faster - especially if you have young, active kids in your household. To keep clothes looking good all season long, pre-treat stains and add a product like Clorox 2 Stain Fighter & Color Booster to your laundry because detergent alone is not enough. For more information and tips from Sam Saboura, visit www.laundryroom101.com.
PUZZLE SOLUTIONS
4 / 2 + X / X 3 X 1 5 12 33 12
6 X 9 + 7 61
8 -
5 -9
(ARA) - Summer fashion always calls for bright, fun colors. However, those bright summer clothes come at a cost - more maintenance and tricky summertime stains. There are tricks you can use to keep your favorite summer clothes looking as fresh and bright in September as they did in May. This season, its all about shopping your closet. You can easily get the look you want by taking a pair of dark denim jeans from your closet, cuffing the bottoms and pairing them with embellished sandals and a bright top. No matter the month, a pair of dark jeans is one of the most versatile pieces of clothing you can own. To keep your denim looking darker and brighter longer, turn jeans inside out before you wash them, use cold water, add a color booster and stain remover and line-dry.
SUDOKU ANSWER
CROSSWORD ANSWER
Look for ultra lightweight, noncomedogenic lotions that wont clog pores or cause breakouts or run into eyes to cause stinging
Look for a sport sunscreen with a high Sun Protection Factor (SPF) that provides broad-spectrum protection and apply generously. Most adults do not follow sunscreen application instructions, achieving only 10-25% of the expected SPF. For optimal protection, it is important to ap-
While no sunscreen is clinically proven to minimize or prevent skin cancer, dermatologists have long recognized that exposure to UVA and UVB rays can promote the risk of skin cancer.
Relatively Speaking
Keep Your Dog Happy When Hes Home Alone
wont destroy something in the house and your neighbors wont be bothered by barking. * Crate training is a valuable tool for when youre away or even when you have people over and your dog just needs a quiet place to himself. A crate that is large enough for your dog to stand up and turn around in with a soft pad to sleep on is a great substitute for the dens wild dogs take refuge in. A favorite blanket or shirt that youve worn can be comforting for your dog. * Whether hes in the crate or roaming free, busy toys are a great way to keep a dog occupied. Fill safe toys with peanut butter and freeze them or add in small treats that will fall out as the toy is rolled around. Rotate toys (give a toy one day and a different toy the next) to help prevent boredom. Hide low fat treats around the house for your dog to find randomly throughout the day. * If youre going to be gone for several hours, make sure your dog gets plenty of exercise before you leave because a tired dog is a happy dog. Leave a radio on so your dog has friendly voices to keep him company. * Feed your dog his biggest meal of the day before you leave so hell have a full stomach and want to take a nap. * Make sure you have a place for your dog to relieve himself to avoid any accidents during the time youre away. Most people dont have large, fenced in yards and dog doors so an indoor dog potty like the UGODOG is an easy way to keep messes contained. * Keep your arrivals and departures low key. Dont squeal and go overboard greeting your dog when you walk in the door and dont linger and feel bad for the dog when you leave. The less of a commotion you make, the less your dog will panic when you walk out the door. For more information on the UGODOG, training tips and ideas to keep your dog busy, visit www. UGODOG.com.
(ARA) Dogs love our company and knowing theyre part of the pack. But the fact is humans have to leave the house some time, whether its for work, to run errands or to go to a place where dogs arent welcome. So when you cant be home to entertain your dog, how do you keep him busy and happy when hes alone?
Most dogs are social animals and are happiest when they are surrounded by their humans. Some dogs suffer from separation anxiety and cry, bark and whine when left alone, while others just use their alone time to sleep. No matter what your dogs personality, making sure he has something to keep him occupied during his time alone helps ensure your dog
Summer reADing A Fun Way to Help Your Child Find Their inner Bookworm
(NUI) - No one wants to admit that aging affects their ability to drive safely. But experts agree that, although not all drivers are the same, driving ability generally begins to deteriorate around age 55. Kathleen Marvaso, AAAs vice president of Public Affairs, said that as the population ages, senior-driver safety is becoming an increasingly relevant and challenging issue for many families. Many adult children of senior drivers are looking for help navigating this new and sometimes challenging road, she said. Our research shows that one of the biggest questions is how to begin the conversation. AAASeniors.com, AAAs senior safety and mobility Web site, offers the following advice: * Plan ahead. Its never too early to begin the conversation. Planning ahead means you can discuss gradual adjustments that may be needed over time as a senior gets older. Sometimes, just a few simple adjustments, such as avoiding night or highway driving, can help prolong a seniors safe driving years. * Approach the conversation with safety as the main objective. Because driving is such a big part of independence, AAA advises to be prepared to face some resistance from the senior driver. Having facts and concrete examples available will help; and a caring tone may make all the difference. * Talk about the issue during discussions about retirement. Take the same careful approach to transportation that you would with finances and other retirement-related decisions. Future transportation needs may affect other retirement decisions, such as selecting a retirement home. For example, convenience to public transportation or the availability of onsite transportation may become important criteria. At AAA, we want to foster a society where older adults can remain confident and independent and live to their full potential, Marvaso said. AAASeniors.com gives seniors and their families the tools necessary to create an action plan to help manage the inevitable consequences of aging, and to help seniors drive for as long as safely possible - and remain mobile thereafter.
(NC)Helping your children develop a love for reading is one of the most important things you can do as a parent. Moreover, it is a gift that will last a lifetime. Dont let your childs reading comprehension fall behind his or her classmates this summer, especially when there are many opportunities for them to not only maintain but improve their reading skills. Here are some simple tips to keep reading fun and to engage your child through the summer months and the rest of the year. Show them reading is fun Set aside time to read together as a family and enjoy reading out loud in character voices with your children. Visiting the library or participating in a summer reading program can be a lot of fun for children. Reading at the right level There are two things to keep in mind when helping your children foster a love for reading this summer: their reading level and their interests. Check with your childs teacher at the end of the school year
to identify their reading level. Then ask your child what he or she would like to read. Trust your local librarian with the rest. Set an example Simply having books, magazines and newspapers around your home will encourage your children to view them as part of daily life. Let your kids see you read so they know that reading is important and that it can be an enjoyable pastime. Make reading an everyday activity Encourage your children to read anything and everything street signs, menus, recipes and books are all great tools to strengthen their literacy skills. Start a home library Even at a young age, start a home library for your children even if its just a shelf or two in your own library. Books should be accessible for young children to handle freely.
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We provide financial, retirement, estate planning services and a sensible, prudent approach to managing your assets.
The Colony, 4875 Pelican Colony Blvd., Suite 1401, Bonita Springs, Florida 34134-6952 Please call 239-947-9255 for a free consultation! aap@castlefinancial.com | www.castlefinancial.com
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