10-october-2008

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Duran and Nancy Brown enjoying a bit of social imbibing.

Sheriff Al Lamberti (center) honored recently by Chris and Patty Berian of Coral Cadillac. Pictured are: Austin Berian, Chris Berian, Sheriff Al Lamberti, Dylan Berian, Patti Berian and Kristen Berian.

Debra Todd Photography "Don't walk in front of me, I may not follow. Don't walk behind me, I may not lead. Walk beside me and be my friend. - Albert Camus

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Starting next month, Debra Todd will be our “Out & About” photogra pher. We are thrilled having her on our staff. Be on the lookout, she may be snapping your picture when you least expect it!.

dd aon ay ou

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.

NOW APPEARING at THE HAIR STUDIO

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR This letter was written to Dr. Steven Wigdor of Eye Care & Wear in Lighthouse Point and reprinted with permission. My Dear Mr. Wigdor, I was delighted to see you and “Eye Care & Wear” featured on pages 28,37 and 60 of the LHP Magazine’s July/August ‘08 publication. In my opinion their best so far! The Editor, Jon Frangipane, had me in stitches with his amusing articles about his cat, Berkel, and his article on the presidential candidates is thought provoking. Thank you for your genuine care. Yours Sincerely, Eugenea Nassamento

Dear Jon, Congratulations on your sixth year anniversary! Just a great milestone, and I notice the overall quality of your magazine has improved immeasurably as well. Your hard work and insistence on a quality product have certainly paid off. Again, the very best to you on this key anniversary. Sincerely, Robert (Bob) S. Becker

GARDEN CLUB NEWS MEMBERSHIP DRIVE MONTH October 16, 2008 is The Garden Club of Lighthouse Point meeting to be held at St. Paul's Education Hall, 2700 NE 36 Street. The doors open 11:00 AM. On the program will be Chris Rollins of Fruit & Spice Park, Miami, along with monthly horticulture tips and a plant clinic. There is no admission charge, but donations are always welcome. For more information, please visit our website at www.gardencentral.com/florida/mylhpclub or call 954.942.9310. October 25, 2008 is our "ANNUAL PLANT SALE" and garden related items. 9:00 AM - 2:00 PM at FRANK MC DONOUGH PARK, NE 27 AVE & NE 36 STREET (BEHIND ST. PAUL'S EDUCATION HALL) Thank you, Inger Jones, President LHP Garden Club

New team members ready to serve you at the Hair Studio (see ad pg. 57) Top row L to R: Ruth Ditore, Rodica Zylstra, and Linda Badalamente. Bottom row L to R: Marlene Sanders and Regina Ballinger.

Sol Children Theatre presents POCAHONTAS The Sol Children Troupe will present POCAHONTAS from October 10th to the 26th., Fridays & Saturdays at 7 pm and Sundays at 2 pm. Sol Children Theatre is located at 3333 N. federal Hwy.in Boca Raton. PLEASE CALL: 561-447-8829

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features 10 Hemingway in Cuba

15 1st Presbyterian’s new school

19 Dr. Ed Delz & transpantation

30 Megan’s trek to the Rainforest

36 John Walsh wins swim award

DID YOU KNOW? A criminal is a person with predatory instincts who has not sufficient capital to form a corporation.

From the Editor Sisyphus Wasn’ t the Last Rock ‘n Roller As a perennial Pulitzer Prize loser, I can assure you that by continually losing this coveted award, I am even more doggedly determined to make the Lighthouse Point Magazine the best thing to come along since Twinkies. And very like Sisyphus, I will ceaselessly persist to keep rolling my rock up the mountain until it stays put. I’ll show them, whomever “them” may be.

We are privileged and excited about having her aboard. Loly Perez’s coverage of the Ernest Heminway House is something she and I thought our readers would enjoy. We both are hopefull that the new administration in Washington will allow travel between our two countries soon again. Be on the lookout for for more articles from Loly in the near future.

Realizing the fact that you can’t be all things to all people (2 wives later), I keep the magazine content diversified in nature in order to maintain universal appeal (locally speaking, of course). Your suggestions are always welcome... but be nice.

BREAKING NEWS! For months we have been planning and designing our new and exciting website at www.LHPmag.com. It will have an intirely new look and will feature video performances by local talent, great links to other interesting sites, as well as video advertising for those businesses desiring an audience that is statewide, or maybe even worldwide. Watch for offers of FREE advertising space on a limited basis. Contact 954-486-3820 for details.

Starting this issue, we feature a new addition to our staff, Loly Perez, a resident of Cuba, Loly Perez who will be our special correspondent. I met Loly during my last trip to the Bahamas.

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The complete October issue , and bac k issues of

Lighthouse Point Ma gazine can be seen on the world-wide web at www.LHPma g.com Don’t f or g et to tell your br other Josh in Oshk osh

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The Lighthouse Point Magazine is published monthly by City News Group and delivered by mail, free of charge each month to residents of Lighthouse Point, businesses and the surrounding communities. Check our website for advertising rates and specials for new clients, or call 954-4 486-3 3820 DEADLINE FOR CAMERA-READY ART AND PREPAYMENT OF ADS ARE DUE ON THE 1ST DAY OF THE PRECEDING MONTH OF PUBLICATION. ALL ON-GOING ADS MUST BE CANCELLED BY THE 1ST DAY OF THE PRECEDING MONTH OF PUBLICATION.

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Jon Frangipane, Editor

Founder/Publisher/Editor JonFrangipane Les Phat - Art Director PattieBendit - Story Coordinator WendellAbern – Staff Writer AlanWilliamson - Staff Writer

Contributing Writers

Jim Balistreri, Doreen Gauthier, Sheriff Al Lamberti, Dr. Marc Sander, Dr. Steve Wigdor, Donna Torrey, Dr. Gary Goberville, Erica and Jan Davey, Barbara Seidenstein, Rev. Jack Noble, Mary Griffin, Denise Richardson, Al Siefert, Mary Greenwood, Marla Schwartz, John Offerdahl, Marjory Lyons, Loly Perez and Dr. Peter Painter.

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contents contents Al’s Corner . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 72 Around the Point . . . . . . . . . . . 5 As I Was Saying . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24 Beauty Spot of the Mont h . . . . . . . . 26 Berkel and Me . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16 Cantankerously Yours . . . . . . . . . . 56 Commissioners’ Report . . . . . . . . . . 50 Cookin’ with the Community. . . . . . 7 3 Cover story . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 Editoria l . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 Garden Lady . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26 Green Harriet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54 GreenStuff . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48 Happy Birthday . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 70 Healthy Skin . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49 Hot Off the Grill . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 64 Identity Theft . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 66 I Love My Pet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 Library News . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .62 Merchant of the Month . . . . . . . . . . 74 Mortgage News . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48 On Religion . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 72 Out & About . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 Real Estate . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62 Sheriff Lamberti Reports . . . . . . . . . 64 Strange, But Tru e . . . . . . . . . . . . 54

NOTICE OUR NEW WEBSITE

IS NOW UP AND RUN NING AND WILL BE FEATURING EXCITING VIDEO ADS AND FREE

I Love My Pet

In Loving Memory of "Bubba" March 13, 2007-August 31, 2008 Bubba was a feisty 2.5 pound Yorkie who really loved his two-legged mom. He followed her everywhere and loved to cuddle with her. In May, he survived a liver shunt surgery and was on his way to a long, happy life with his family of 2 other Yorkies (one of which was his 4legged mom), 1 cat, 2 birds and 5 humans. Unfortunately, Bubba slid backwards off the couch and broke his little neck. We miss him so much!

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 jpeg file to [email protected]. No photos will be returned.

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IMPORTANT NOTICE!

The Lighthouse Point Magazine has recently introduced the “Green Pages” which will feature green related articles, and also enable those merchants offering environmental related products to display them in our green section. You will find the Green Pages starting on page 44. Please ask about our special introductory package for first time advertisers.

To accomodate the many requests we get for our publication, copies of the Lighthouse Point Magazine are now available during the first week of each month at the following locations: City Hall Library, Police Station, Red Fox Diner, LHP Yacht & Racquet Club, Sushi & Thai Delight, Duffy’s Diner, and Offerdahl’s Cafe. Call for other locations. Lighthouse Point Magazine

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CHASING ERNEST HEMINGWAY Story & Photos by Loly Perez Special Correspondent The Lighthouse Point Magazine is delighted to announce the addition of Loly Parez, our special correspondent living in Cuba, to our staff . She will be writing on various sub jects regarding life and events in this beautiful coun try. We invite your comments. Ernest Millar Hemingway was born in Oak Park, Illinois, a western suburb of Chicago, on July 21, 1899 and died on July 2, 1961 of a selfinflicted gun shot wound, as did his father before him. He was the second of six children in the devoutly Protestant family of Dr. Clarence Edmonds Hemingway, a physician and outdoorsman, and Grace Hemingway, a talented singer and music teacher. He lived his life to the fullest by fishing for giant marlin in the Gulf Stream, hunting big game in Africa, skiing in the Alps, and covering wars as a correspondent. He was awarded with the Silver Medal of Military Valor in World War 1, Pulitzer Prize in 1953, the Nobel Prize in literature in 1954. In 2001, two of his books, T h e S u n A l s o R i s e s and A F a r e w e l l t o A r m s , would be named to the list of the 100 best Englishlanguage novels of the 20th century by the Editorial Board of the American Modern Library.

In 1927, Hemingway discovers the charm of Key West, Florida and in the ensuing years publishes his, A F a r e w e l l T o A r m s (1929), D e a t h I n t h e A f t e r n o o n (1932) and G r e e n H i l l s o f A f r i c a (1935), inspired by many his safari experiences. During this time he becomes affectionately known as "Papa" and spends time with friends known as the "Key West Mob," fishing in the Dry Tortugas, Bimini and Cuba for days and weeks at a time in pursuit of giant tuna and marlin. Hemingway uses most of these friends as characters in his novel T o H a v e a n d H a v e N o t (1937). His exploits with those same friends at the now legendary Sloppy Joe's Bar are well documented. By the mid 1930s, the Key West house is on all the tourist maps, making it necessary for Hemingway to build a sixfoot wall around the house to get privacy from busloads of tourists. It is said that descendants of a six-toed tomcat he once owned still roam the property today. In 1939, Hemingway moves to Finca Vigia, a small village just outside Havana, Cuba, the place he chooses to escape from his life of celebrity. Hemingway succeeds in winning the confidence of the local Cuban people and becomes saturated in their culture. As a former journalist, he approaches the Cuban culture as a research project. In Havana, the writer's favorite watering hole, the Floridita Bar, still stands on a busy corner with a life-size bronze replica of the six- foot two Hemingway, standing at his

Hemingway was a strong, handsome man, very smart and ambitious. He had learned the art of hunting from his father, receiving his first gun at age ten. Among his other passions were art and music, learning to play the cello at an early age. In 1916, as a teenager, he begins writing for the high school newspaper and a literary magazine where his poems and short stories about his experiences are first published. In 1918 he sails to Europe, driving an ambulance for the Red Cross, and then wounded while delivering chocolate and cigarettes to front line Italian troops. Upon returning home in 1920 he becomes a freelance staff writer for the Toronto Star newspaper. During the 1920s Hemingway becomes a member of expatriate Americans in Paris and begins to mix with such luminaries as poet Ezra Stone, Gertrude Stein, F. Scott Fitzgerald and James Joyce. Soon after, his first book, "Three Stories & Ten Poems, is published. It was also during this period in Paris he writes T h e S u n A l s o R i s e s in only a sixweek period.

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Life size bronze replica at the Floridita Bar usual spot at the bar (see cover). And it was during his years in Cuba that he writes some of his greatest works which include F o r W h o m t h e B e l l T o l l s (1940) and O l d M a n a n d t h e S ea (1952) and I s l a n d s i n t h e S t r e a m . "No writer who knows the great writers who did not receive the prize can accept it other than with humility," said Hemingway after receiving the Nobel Prize for literature in 1954. Hemingway commits suicide on July 2, 1961 in Ketchum, Idaho, after having bouts of depression, combined with alcohol problems.

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AN AMERICAN LITERARY GIANT The Hemingway House Approaching the house from a long driveway leading to 15 acres, lush with coconut trees and green bamboo, you began to feel that you are, indeed, in a very special place. Walking up the path toward the tan-colored Hemingway House, to the right stands a ramshackled rundown structure that housed the Heminway children, and on the left at the far end of the main house, you see a tall three-story tower where

Driveway to the Hemingway House

Hemingway children’s quarters

Papa’s beloved El Pilar

Hemingway preferred to write, away from telephones and other distractions. The first floor was reserved for his 57 cats.

Private tower for “Papa” and his cats

Near by, there are four gravestones marking the burial place of some on Hemingway's dogs: Black, Negita, Linda and Neron. And just a little further to the right, you can see Hemingway's beloved 44-foot boat, El Pilar, nicely restored, proudly standing beneath a huge metal canopy, protecting it from the

Gravestones mark burial plots of 4 dogs Between 1944 and 1945, during the Second World War, Hemingway used the boat to chase German submarines. The boat, armed with automatic rifles, submachine guns and grenades, sailed off in an attempt to lure a German submarine to the surface in an attempt to sink it with explosives. He never did realize success, however.

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FIRST PRESBYTERIAN OPENS NEW SCHOOL By Sharon Textor-Black The First Prebyterian Church of Pompano celebrated the opening of their new school building on Sunday 8-17-08. Two of the church's most known and respected eldest members were honored to cut the ribbon opening the new building for the congregtion and guests to preview. Dottie Jones of Coral Springs (98), and Elsa Brehm Hoffmann of Hillsboro Beach Dottie and Elsa performing the rib(will be 101 in October), were thrilled bon cutting to be a part of the ceremony and with Pompano and Pompano Lighthouse Point mayors in Lighthouse Point. There was plenattendence, as well as local ty of food, clowns, business Chamber presidents. Well known and children's activities admired Rev Dr Jack Noble and even a steel drum player enteris the pastor of the church. The church and school taining the crowd. serve many neighboring For more information, go to webite: communities, most notably Pamela, 9, Elsa, 5, www.pinkpres.org and Blair,7, with clown

Elsa with the Andersons

Clowning around with Elsa

Dogs Ma y Pla y an Impr tant Par t in Detecting Cancer Dogs may help doctors detect bladder cancer! A study published in the British Medical Journal shows that dogs can be trained to identify urine samples from people with bladder cancer. Dr. Carolyn Willis and her colleagues from the Department of Dermatology at Amersham Hospital (Amersham, UK) trained six dogs over seven months to discriminate between the urine from people with bladder cancer from that of people without bladder cancer. The dogs were presented with seven samples: only one of the seven samples was from a person with bladder cancer. Therefore, if the dog randomly selected a sample, the chance of finding the bladder cancer sample was only 1 in 7 (~14.3%). The investigators were careful to avoid giving the dogs clues about the samples. For example, the samples were presented to the dogs by a researcher who did not know which dish had the cancer sample. Each of the six dogs was tested nine times for a total of 54 trials. As a group, the dogs correctly identified the bladder cancer samples in 22 of the 54 trials (41%). This

is much better than the random chance detection rate (14.3%). The scientists are unsure how the dogs detect the bladder cancer samples. They think that bladder cancer may cause specific chemicals to be released into urine. Dogs may be able to use their sensitive sense of smell to identify these chemicals in the samples. The researchers also mentioned that all of the dogs alerted to one urine sample from one person in the control group. This person had normal laboratory tests and had not been diagnosed with bladder cancer. An investigator was concerned about this finding and requested further laboratory tests. After further tests, this person was found to have cancer of the kidney! Certainly, further research about how dogs can detect disease needs to be conducted. Although dogs were able to detect bladder cancer samples at a rate better than chance, they still found less than 50% of the diseased samples. Perhaps with further training, dogs will some day work with doctors to help diagnose disease.

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Love Is a Many Splintered Thing A conversation with my cat I had just returned from my lawyer's office. Berkel was sprawled out on a justpurchased corrugated scratch board. I had sprinkled cat nip on the surface according to the instructions and he was out like a light when I arrived. Recently, I had read about a man who died and left instructions to have his dog buried with him. The man said he loved his dog so much he didn't want to Berkel and Me leave this world without him. Because I also have great affection for my cat, I had my will revised so that Berkel would be buried with me when the grim reaper arrives, and thought it best to break the news to him as soon as possible. “Wake up, Berkel, I must discuss a serious matter." No response. "I said I must have a talk with you concerning a subject of great importance." No response. "I hear that fresh tuna is on sale again this week," I screamed. Berkel jumped to his feet. "If this is one of your devious ploys to get my attention, don't say another word or I'll dig my claws into your new waterbed tonight, let's say about 3 a.m." "Berkel, it is true that tuna is on sale again, but because I love you so much, I have just changed my will so that we can make that glorious ride to heaven together when I die," I explained. Berkel looked extremely purr-plexed. "Glorious ride where?" I bent down and tweaked his little pussy nose. "To heaven, of course, sweet face. We will both go through the pearly gates… and you and I will spend eternity together." "Hold the phone, dummy! I still have eight lives left, so find another cat with nothing to live for. I ain't ready for that 'glorious ride to heaven,' as you say, nor do I have a burning desire to enter the pearly gates, either, so count me out.!" cried Berkel. "I thought you loved me, too, Berkel. It's a perfect way for you to show me how much love you have for me. Don't you get it?" I exclaimed. "Being buried alive is one of the most heinous crimes ever committed in recorded history, and you call it an act of love, you brainless clump of doo-doo!" Berkel shouted. "I'd have you put to sleep first. It would be a completely painless process. Do you think I'm so kind of barbarian?" I countered. "Put me to sleep?" "Yes, put you to sleep." "What you really mean is that you want to end my life before it's my time to expire. Am I correct on that point?" "Well, if you want to get technical about it, yes." "And, pray tell, do I lie at the head of the casket, or at your feet when lowered into the ground?" "Oh, didn't I tell you? We're going to be cremated!" "Cremated?" "Yes. And our combined ashes will be sprinkled by helicopter over Weehawken, New Jersey, the city named after my great grandfather, Wilfred Weehawken, inventor of the Magical Chef Carrot Dicer and Splicer. "I don't see a need to go through this great expense, really."

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by Jon Frangipane

"Oh no, on the contrary, it's a quite economical way to go, especially if you make the arrangements well in advance." "Did I ever tell you that I burn very easily?" Berkel said, as a tear ran down his nose. "No, but that would seem to be a moot argument when someone is being placed in a hot, roaring furnace," I emphasized. "I don't really want to put a monkey wrench into your well laidout plans, Hannibal, but I'm going to take a rain check on the cremation thing. And as to the 'love you' part, from now on let's just refer to our relationship as 'cautiously friendly' and this way you can burn in hell as far as I'm concerned," Berkel declared. I was completely losing touch with reality and began to shout. "But I love you to death, Berkel. Heaven could never be heaven without you, Berkel! This is a matter of the deepest, truest love" "You wouldn't know what true love was if it came along and bit you on your oversized butt." Well, that remark hurt me so deeply that I cancelled my cremation and lost the deposit. With Berkel's reluctance to cooperate,, it became necessary to rethink the entire scenario as to how I will meet my maker. A week later, I approached Berkel with a new and ingenious idea. For years, I have been morbidly fascinated with cryopreservation. Maybe Berkel would be more open to this modern idea of actually being frozen at our convenience and then waking in 50 years when cures for most diseases will surely have been discovered, and then my precious pussy and I could live for who knows how long into the future. "I've got the answer, Berkel. You're going to love this idea. We're going to be fresh-frozen!" Berkel was noticeably irritated. "Can't you see I'm watching History Channel? Isn't it fascinating how the Egyptians were so adept at mummification?" "If you think mummification is so great, wait until you hear about cryonics where you are completely frozen and stored away for 50 years and then awakened to a new and disease-free world." "So, what you're actually proposing is that I have the choice of either being burnt to a crisp or being frozen stiff as a board… just so that you can have company in heaven. Is that what you're saying?" "A rather morbid description, but I think you have the idea, Berkel," I replied. "I can't thank you enough for your concern, but I prefer to pass away as nature wills it," Berkel remarked. "We shouldn't mess with God's plans." "Leaving you alone in this treacherous world without me just hurts me so," I sputtered. "You'll get over it," Berkel answered as he sauntered away in victory. A sad note: Last night my waterbed suffered a terrible leak. I didn't realize it until I woke up in a pool of water with Berkel sitting on my chest. "I told you that I prefer to pass away as nature wills it," Berkel smirked. "We shouldn't mess with God's plans. And never, ever again tell me that you 'love me to death,' okay?" I never brought the subject up again. Copyright 2008 Jon Frangipane

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My Second Life Through Vital Organ Transplantation tant if you go on the list. It is easy for our mind to At Jackson Memorial Hospital a family stood at the bed- accept the concept and the side of the son they loved dearly saying their final good- need for a vital organ transplant. But it is more byes. It was Valentine’s Day in 1998. difficult to accept the conAfter many tests and the examination of two independ- cept of organ donation and ent physicians, their loved one was diagnosed as having voluntarily sign an organ no brain activity. They would never know him again in donor card. That process life, only in their memories. They would never see him, presents more misconceptions than factual informahug him, or feel the warmth of his smile. tion. The waiting list con- Dr. Edwin Delz, DDS Despite all their issues and considerations, they knew tinues to grow due to the diagnostic skills of the medthat their dreams and aspirations for him could only be ical community and the choice of transplant as a possiachieved by his gift of life to someone in need of a life- ble treatment for an end stage organ failure. saving organ. He left the operating room with the customary rose on his chest that attests to the fact that he The statistics for liver transplant for 2007 attest to the lack of organ donation. There were 17,000 patients on was a very special human being — an organ donor. the waiting list. The number of liver transplants perAfter a year on the waiting list for a liver transplant, formed was 6,200 and 11,000 new patients were added having lost mine to a needle stick from a patient I had to the list. Each patient added to the list has a 39% treated, I left a different operating room thirteen hours chance of a life-saving transplant, and 13% will die durlater, having received this young man's liver, the dreams ing that wait. As human beings, we were not supposed and aspirations of his family, and the responsibility to to live forever but transplant has added many productive years for many people. Only through education will live a life that his family could be proud of. more lives be saved. We have lived together in a symbiotic relationship for ten years. His gift of life has allowed me to treat the Dr. Delz is available to speak to your group or organpatients at our dental practice with the same quality ization. He enjoys the art of dentistry and the difference he makes in his patients lives. He also enjoys the care and concern that we have received in our life. martial art of Aikido which he started two months We went to Switzerland and skied in the world winter after his transplant. Dr Delz can be contacted at 954transplant Olympics. We have practiced the martial art 782-9111 or at [email protected]. of Aikido for 10 years and recently passed our first kyu test. Our next test will be for a black belt. We have been certified as a senior instructor in the International Association for Orthodontics and we speak nationally Lighthouse Point Magazine on adult orthodontic treatment.

By Dr. Ed Delz, DDS

We demonstrate what life can be like as a transplant and the difference organ donation can make in the world. We speak locally about organ donation and transplant, since it is a new Medical Paradigm and only a whisper in the wind in most people's lives.

welcomes all residents in the surrounding area to send news items, articles and photos that would be of interest to the community

Nineteen people die every day waiting on a list. That is 7,300 people a year. These facts will only become imporwww.lhpmag.com

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letting go of harold ’ s volvo ed to donate the car. There was a young man who needed a car to get to work. I thought that sounded just right. I knew Harold "It's got 97,000 miles on it," I replied to the minister's ques- would have liked that idea, too. It would go to a person---anothtion. er male-who truly needed it and would value it. "They say a 1991 Volvo like this can easily go 150,000," he I cleaned all the windows with Windex this morning, before I responded, as I filled out the paperwork. started up the engine. In the last month, I had driven it around I knew I was taking a big step, making a the parking lot to keep it in running major change. I was about to remove a physical order. I noticed a bit of rust starting image of my husband's presence in the life we along the edge of the front window. I had shared for 21 years; I was releasing a sigbrushed away leaves on the hood that nificant part of the memory of his presence. had fallen from nearby trees. I had Since December, I had been thinking about dressed up this morning, because a what to do with his car. I knew now it was friend was taking me out for lunch time. later, and then would drive me home. Yet, I still see him, coming around the corI wore a jacket that I could remove in ner with a tray of hot tea and cookies for our the car, due to the heat I anticipated. surprise after-dinner treat. Or I hear his step or I felt tense as I adjusted the seat movement or voice. I sense he is coming into belt, and started the drive. I knew it the room, where I am working on the computwas the last ride. I adjusted the side er, and he will say, "I'm here. What did you say view mirrors, a gesture to Harold you wanted me to proof read for you?" In an since he always asked me if I could see instant, I am aware of his presence, and in the out the side windows. Now I wonnext instant, I know I am wrong. He is gone. dered if it wasn't so much a kind gesHarold and Marjory He had hung on to that car. He loved it. I ture as much as anticipation of some liked it, too, a classic beauty in its day: a 1991 Volvo Sedan 240. of my not-so-good driving maneuvers. I suppose I also was thinkSunroof. Electric windows, even A/C, Swedish version. It turned ing about the last ride as a special moment. I knew Harold would on a dime, as the saying goes. I enjoyed driving it, steering with have appreciated it that I dressed for the occasion. ease. It was a sturdy car, always giving off the essence of safety, I felt nervous about the twelve-mile trip to the church in security in its strong frame and boxy style. downtown Fort Lauderdale. Would the car run the whole way? Harold liked to store his personal items in the trunk-tennis Dare I take I-95 and risk car trouble on the interstate? Would it racquets, tennis balls, fishing poles, tennis shoes, folding beach be unbearably hot without the air conditioning? When had the chair, baseball caps, jumper cables, jackets. I always wanted him oil been changed last? Were the brakes still good? Was the gas to clean it out. But no, that was his own place, his stuff. I recog- gauge accurate? nized it as his piece of private property. He used the car to mainI backed out, turned out of the parking lot, stopped at the tain his freedom--with a trip to Publix or the bank or to the gas four-way stop, and we started on our journey. I made a left at the station and back. He didn't go far, and not for very long. light. The car picked up speed, moved along easily, eager to be As an engineer, he actually was a better driver than I, calcu- back on the road again. I could feel it. lating each move, and executing it with skill. He never misgauged I joined the line-up for I-95, and swept into the moving trafa parking space and had to back up and start in again, or bumped fic. Staying in the right lane, I kept my speed at 60, watching to into the stone marker while heading into a space, or bumbled maintain space between the car ahead and me. I noticed there over a curb, the way I did. were not many cars on the road. That was lucky. I exhaled a long I thought about keeping the car for visiting children and breath, and felt my body begin to relax. I opened the windows a grandchildren to drive to the beach or mall. But the more I looked little on the driver's side. The air flowing in was balmy. I pulled at it, with its peeling paint exterior, the more I knew the family down the visors on my side and the passenger side to cut down wouldn't drive it. I offered it for sale to neighbors. I made a For on the sun's glare. Sale sign and slid it into the back window. I called a man who We maintained a pace; we were sailing along. I thought, Pity hauls away old cars. I checked the Kelly Book price online. I even there is no CD player. If I had taken time to bring a cassette tape, took it up to CarMax, who insulted me and Harold and the car I would have played it--maybe one of Harold's Frank Sinatra with their offering price. As I realized what I might have to do, I tapes. I became aware of a growing sense of relief and even conbegan to notice, as I passed by, salvage yards with cars smashed tentment. I was tempted to hum. I eased back into the driver's into flat metallic shapes. I waited a while longer. seat now, trusting in that old car, just as I had trusted its owner One day this week, I awoke with the idea: a donation to my all those years. I knew it would get me to my destination. church. Then suddenly, all the pieces fell into place quickly. The church responded immediately to my email, pleased that I wantBy Marjory Diane Lyons

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EARLY STAR T IN THE POOL CAN SAVE A LIFE! Stor y b y Kinda Blomber g

Photos b y De br a Tod d

Here in south Florida, we all know how important it is to teach our precious little ones how to swim with water all around us. I am one of the lucky ones, who is rewarded on a daily basis, teaching children to swim, and at the same time get to play with them! Do you remember the days as a kid when you twirled and whirled about just to see how many somersaults you could do in a row before you got dizzy? Or, how about those games of sharks and minnows or "Marco, Polo" with your brother or sister or your best friend? Do you remember those "popcorn" contests to see who could pop out of the water the highest? And who could forget the "Nestea plunge." You see, it's important to get those swim lessons in early, in fact, it could be life saving. But at the same time, there is tremendous value in just getting in the pool with your kids and having fun! Let them explore their watery world and learn to push their limits with the watchful eye of mom or dad right there to guide them back to safety. Small children gain so much from just playing on the steps with toys and diving for water rings or playing mermaid. I smile every time I teach class and my little "students" start to sing "tic, tock" while they are barely able to put words together. They know what fun it is to have mom rock them back and forth and then toss them up into the air! So, remember when you are feeling the heat of south Florida, grab your suit and towel and don't forget to yell "cannonball!" If you are interested in swim lessons for your child ages 6 months and up please contact Kinda or Larry Blomberg with First in Swimming Swim School. We offer group and private lessons at the Lighthouse Yacht and Racquet Club or your home pool. We can be reached at (954)788-7300.

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AS I WAS SAYING

A Fool and His Tools By Alan Williamson

Good handymen are hard to find so I'll save you some time. I'm not one of them. In fact, anyone who knows me knows that when it comes to my repair work, things often get worse before they get better. Ask me to fix a ceiling fan and there's a good chance I'll short out all your electricity leaving you sitting in the dark waiting for a breeze that comes only when the fan falls from its hanging bracket knocking you unconscious. Ask me to see what I can do about your noisy dryer and odds are you'll be noise-free in no time as you hang your next load of laundry from the clothesline I rigged up in your backyard after turning your MayTag into a motionless mass not unlike Ruben Studdard. My toolbox is a sad symbol of my repair limitations. It contains a hammer, nine different sizes of the same screwdriver, some bent nails left over from hard-knock picture hangings, plus a lifetime supply of miscellaneous scraps of junk such as wire, twine, assorted washers and two-way tape. Not only am I ill-equipped to put any of my toolbox items to practical use, I have actually had the shameful bad luck of injuring myself while reaching into the toolbox to get something out. Now, we all have our levels of mechanical aptitude, but I think it fair to say that it takes a special talent to draw blood while rummaging around for something in the bottom of your tool case. If I've learned anything from my home repair experiences, it's that once you're bleeding, the project tends to go sharply downhill from there. No one knows my fix-it flaws better than my wife. The minute something goes wrong, she tactfully maneuvers to nip my home repair misadventures in the bud. When our automatic sprinkler system failed to go off last week, she launched her usual lobbying effort for outside help. "Maybe you can call Tommy in the morning," she gently suggested, referring to the handyman who's replaced or repaired everything from doors to toilets at our place. "I'll take a look at it, it might be something simple," I proposed optimistically. Some people just never learn. The next morning, after a hardy breakfast and several cups of coffee, I arrived at the job site, otherwise known as the side of my house. Using my finely-tuned powers of observation, I swiftly determined that the sprinkler system had not been abducted by aliens as there were no crop circles carved in my lawn and the PVC pipes and electrical box

were free of green slime. Encouraged, I checked each of the four sprinkler zones, flicking the switch from automatic to manual and canvassing the yard in search of blocked sprinkler heads or idle zones. Again, no signs of trouble, other than the fact that I had somehow managed to water myself more than the lawn. As I came full circle, I stooped to pull a weed out of the grass when it hit me. No, I don't mean a light bulb went off in my head. What hit me was a stream of water in the ass. Turns out the big green cap that sits on top of the pipes had a crack in it reminiscent of the Liberty Bell. Investigating further, I found that the technical term for the big green cap was a "hydro-indexing valve," an item that I had about as much chance of repairing as a heat shield on the space shuttle. Two phone calls and $126 later I had a fixed sprinkler system and the satisfaction of knowing I made the right move in hiring someone to do the job. But being repair impaired, it's never long before another problem around the house puts you face to face with your limitations. In the next two weeks, I paid to have a ficus tree cut down, a garage door opener repaired, and a toilet unclogged. When a crank handle on one of our old awning windows broke, I vowed to take on the job. First, I unscrewed the bolts that hold the crank mechanism to the window frame. Next, I slid the crank arm along the track in the window's side-mounted hinges. Then, pulling the mechanism away from the window, I inspected the crank handle, arm and gear assembly. Sounds like I knew what I was doing, right? Wrong. When I saw the badly bent crank arm, it all came back to me. This was a crank handle that I had installed years ago. The arm didn't fit the window's hinge track right so I "modified" it by hitting it repeatedly with a hammer and mangling it to fit. The result is a window that you can only crank closed once before the arm jumps its track and leaves you spinning the handle in vain. Knowing I had hit the outskirts of my abilities once again, I did what any self-aware repair impaired man would do. I forced the twisted arm into the hinge, cranked the window closed, packed up my tools and left. Hell, in my book, that's a successful repair. The only thing left to do is lecture my wife. I believe her frequent and frivolous opening and closely of windows may be inflating our energy bills.

© 2008 Alan Williamson

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The Garden Lady Says... THE SPACE BETWEEN Rain, Rain, Rain, is all we've had this past week, and most of the plants love it! Especially the weeds! The seeds that had lain dormant just beneath the soil have sprouted and taken off with a vengeance, determined to set seed as quickly as possible. If you feel a little overwhelmed with the weed situation, there are a few things you can do. The first, of course, is to make it your business to go out for five or ten minutes early in the morning or evening and pull them out by the roots. This works if you have a few weeds here and there. For large areas, such as stone driveways, pathways, and the like, a topical herbicide will help. Try the new organic alternatives, such as Avenger, which is made from limonene, an orange derivative; it works, is safe, and smells good too! However, if you find that you have a lot of weeds to contend with in plant beds and borders; one of the best ways to fight is with more plants. If you have too many weeds, then you simply don't have enough plants in the spaces between them! It has been said that nature abhors a vacuum and no where is this more evident than in our gardens. By planting the plants you want, you will crowd out the undesirables. If for example you have planted a tree with only mulch

By Donna Torrey

around it, then for certain, you will have weeds popping up in the mulch, leading to weed whacking. Instead of mulch, plant "living mulch", ground cover plants that will blanket the space beneath the trees or shrubs. A few choice perennials for a sunny to partly sunny area would be beach sunflower, blanket flower, rain lily, reed orchid, spathyglottis orchid, spiderwort, native salvia, little peanut, milkweed, native passion vine, sunshine mimosa, coontie, and others. For part shade to shade, many tropical foliage plants and herbs work well: angel wing begonia, anthurium, cryptanthus, bromeliads, ferns, mints, oregano and many others. Start to see your landscape as a rich tapestry, into which you consistently weave new threads, creating texture, color and best of all, less weeding! The Garden Gate is located in the Pompano Citi Centre. Donna can be reached at 954-783-1189, or at www.donnasgardengate.com

Beauty Spot of the Month

Congratulations to Mary and Bill Davis of 2230 NE 46th Street, winner of the Lighthouse Point Community’s Beauty Spot of the Month Award for Septrmber. Chosen by LHP Beautification Committee.

8/30/08

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PURA VIDA: A Teen’s Journey thro Local teen resident of Lighthouse Point, Megan Dekok, describes her unforgettable and fabulous trip into the Rainforest of Costa Rica. We thank her for her wonderful story and photos, not to mention her professional writing ability and great passion she has for lending a helping hand.

Story and photos by Megan Dekok The idea of a summer excursion in Central America, where I could not only practice my Spanish, explore the culture, and experience independence, but also engage in service to local communities seemed so far out of reach. That is until I found myself sitting in the aisle seat 17H, on a crowded flight to San Jose, Costa Rica, armed with a few good books and instructions on where to meet the rest of my group. Though I bid farewell to my family with a heavy heart, the anticipation of the journey ahead quickly transcended over the woes of leaving home for an entire month at the prime age of sixteen. Upon landing, the obstacles of immigration and baggage claim being entirely in Spanish did not faze our pure and ardent excitement. As we exited the airport we were greeted by a sizable crew of seventeen kids, two counselors, and a guide, all clad in the familiarly hideous gray tour shirt, and displaying gigantic smiles, conveying the shared mutual feelings both of enthusiasm and trepidation.

Megan with Costa Rican boy, Estaban Our trip, booked through Westcoast Connection Teen Travel, got off on an astonishingly fast start as we boarded a fleet of four by four trucks and set off on a six-hour ride through the muddy roads of rural Costa Rica. The tour was taking us to the Fonseca family, deep in the Rainforest. At some point we stopped at the edge of the Rainforest for lunch to change into the widely popular rain boots for our hike into the heart of the forest. Three brutally uphill and rainy hours later, we found salvation in two wooden cabins and the first signs of human life we had seen, in what seemed like forever.

Short break during beach cleanup

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Most of our time with the Fonseca family in the rainforest was spent using ropes to propel ourselves down one hundred-foot waterfalls, making tortillas, climbing three hundred year old trees, and learning about the abundant flora and fauna of the rainforest, as well as their wonderful medicinal properties that it produces. The four days spent living isolated from any slight civilization proved both tranquil and then supplying the biggest adrenaline rush I've ever experienced. We truly bonded with the Fonsecas, singing Spanish songs throughout the day and telling traditional ghost stories at night. We had left behind all inhibitions and judgments which enabled us to truly immerse ourselves in this memorable cultural experience.

ough the Rainforest of Costa Rica Following our rainforest adventure, we traveled to San Gerardo and San Isidro, where the majority of our community service was to take place. In the mountain town of San Gerardo, we were constantly speaking Spanish as we took part in various service projects, ranging from helping locals harvest apples and blackberries, to organizing a bingo tournament for the children of the community. The most humbling experience of the trip, however, was our time spent at Hogar Ama, an orphanage home to fifteen Negotiating the boys, ages six to fifteen. Translated, Hogar Ama means "a home to love," and that is exactly what we felt as we helped the boys with their chores, including milking goats and gathering chicken eggs. We also helped them refurbish their gymnasium, complete with a mural of a tree with our handprints as the leaves and signing it with the words "pura vida," which not only means pure life, but is the national attitude towards life in general. When the time came for us to depart, nobody wanted to leave, as we had formed special friendships with the kids at Hogar Ama, and it was with tears and prolonged goodbyes that we left the orphanage. We were sure to exchange contact information and shared a desire to return once again.

At our group session that evening, we were still reeling with the sadness upon leaving that amazing country, but with a sense of accomplishment after witnessing such extraordinary children that live with such vigor and passion much greater than our own. From that experience, we all vowed to take advantage of the great opportunities that we are given in life, and to relish our good fortune when remembering the orphans at Hogar Ama. The next stop on our journey was purely adventurous, quintessential rough terrain to visiting Costa Rica. We toured through the beach towns of Dominical and Manuel Antonio, and the volcano Arenal. We took part in surf lessons, nature hikes, and visited the local salsa clubs, while experiencing true "tico" culture. Witnessing monkeys, sloths, and various birds of Costa Rica showed us the beauty of untouched nature, and expressed to us the importance of conserving it. As we ziplined through the forest surrounding the active volcano, Arenal, even suspended two hundred feet in the tree's canopy, we were able to appreciate the breathtaking power of the verdant and lush forest. Our final service project was to be a presentation to the community of Zarcero, a town virtually untouched by the influences of tourism. Our presentation, "Las Caras de Zarcero," or "the Faces of Zarcero," featured interviews with the mayor, the oldest resident, and an esteemed milk farmer, all of whom call Zarcero their home. After our presentation, we mingled with the locals enjoying traditional snacks and each other's company. One would think that after a month-long whirlwind journey, filled with life-changing experiences, I would be ready to go back to the comforts of home, but this was definitely not the case. On this trip, I made friendships that I know will last a lifetime. All of my fellow tour members, counselors, and the people that we met along the way, truly shaped my experience, and allowed me to feel pure joy, humble tears, adrenaline rushes, hysterical laughter, and unadulterated happiness, all at once. Waiting at home to take our fabulous trip seemed to take forever, but looking back it can be compared to an unforgettable, but short rollercoaster ride that leaves you hungry for more, yearning to go back to those unforgettable moments… back to Costa Rica.

Friends at the Arenal Volcano www.lhpmag.com

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Fig Whitefly Attacking your Ficus Hedges? By James Miller Our privacy for our homes is so important that we build walls and fences around them and line them with plants and shrubs that grow as high as we desire. The Ficus hedge is one of the most important privacy hedges in Lighthouse Point landscaping. As you drive down Lighthouse Point Drive you see many Ficus hedges that are taller than the house they surround. Due to its beauty and resistance to pest the Ficus hedge and a variety of Ficus trees are used everywhere. Recently a new pest from Asia known as the Fig Whitefly has been attacking and destroying specifically the Ficus species, i.e. Ficus benjamina and banyan trees. This pest was first identified by an Entomologist from the University of Florida in Dade County late last year. Since then it has spread throughout Broward and is starting to get a foothold in the Palm Beaches. You may have the Fig Whitefly already and are unaware of it until it's too late. Symptoms first appear as color change in the leaves, then leads to leaf drop and die back of the stems which can contribute and ultimately lead to the plant's death. The adult Fig Whitefly is a tiny yellow insect with white wings that have a gray band across the wing. This pest lays eggs on the underside of the leaf which mature into a translucent like disk known as nymphs which feed vigorously until they mature into adults. The life cycle is about a month before becoming adults which lay on average 12 eggs per square centimeter of a ficus leaf. It is essential to treat the Ficus in a timely matter or have a preventative treatment done as quickly as possible to give the Ficus plants a fighting chance against the Fig Whitefly. For more information and pictures, please visit our website at: www.millerpestcontrol.com Written by James Miller, Operations Mgr. at JP Miller & Sons Services, Inc., Servicing Broward and the Palm Beaches since 1974. 1-888-4-JPM-Bugs

EVENSONG at Saint John’s 2008 - 2009 November 2, 2008 — 4:00 p.m “TE DEUM LAUDAMUS” CHORAL EVENSONG FOR ALL SAINTS (A special celebration for our Tenth Anniversary)

December 7, 2008 — 4:00 p.m. LESSONS AND MOTETS FOR ADVENT: AWAITING THE LORD WITH ISAIAH

and MUSIC OF THE RENAISSANCE MASTERS - Palestrina, Byrd, Victoria, Parsons -

JANUARY 18, 2009 — 4:00 p.m. CHORAL EVENSONG FOR EVENTIDE MARCH 1, 2009 — 4:00 p.m. CHORAL EVENSONG FOR LENT: EVENSONG IN THE ENGLISH MODE - Tallis, Farrant, Blow, Purcell April 5, 2009 — 4:00 p.m. CHORAL EVENSONG FOR PASSIONTIDE - Domenico Scarlatti: Stabat Mater -

St. John’s Anglican Catholic Church 4213 N. Federal Hwy., Pompano Beach, FL (1/2 mi. N. of Sample Road) (954) 781-8370

Visit us at ~ www.stjohntheologian.org Free Will Offering Refreshments following in the Parish Hall

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AGE-O OLD QUESTION IS FINALLY ANSWERED The rich and famous put to rest why the chicken crossed the road Why did the chicken cross the road? BARACK OBAMA: The chicken crossed the road because it was time for a change! The chicken wanted change! JOHN MCCAIN: My friends, that chicken crossed the road because he recognized the need to engage in cooperation and dialogue with all the chickens on the other side of the road. HILLARY CLINTON: When I was First Lady, I personally helped that little chicken to cross the road. This experience makes me uniquely qualified to ensure - right from Day One! that every chicken in this country gets the chance it deserves to cross the road. But then, this really isn't about me. GEORGE W. BUSH: We don't really care why the chicken crossed the road. We just want to know if the chicken is on our sideof the road, or not. The chicken is either against us, or for us. There is no middle ground here. DICK CHENEY: Where's my gun? COLIN POWELL: Now to the left of the screen, you can clearly see the satellite image of the chicken crossing the road. BILL CLINTON: I did not cross the road with that chicken. What is your definition of chicken? AL GORE: I invented the chicken. JOHN KERRY: Although I voted to let the chicken cross the road, I am now against it! It was the wrong road to cross, and I was misled about the chicken's intentions. I am not for it now, and will remain against it. AL SHARPTON: Why are all the chickens white? We need some black chickens. DR. PHIL: The problem we have here is that this chicken won't realize that he must first deal with the problem on this side of the road before it g oes after the problem on the other side of the road. What we need to do is help him realize how stupid he's acting by not taking on his current problems before adding new problems. OPRAH: Well, I understand that the chicken is having problems, which is why he wants to cross this road so bad. So, instead of having the chicken learn from his mistakes and take falls, which is a part of life, I'm going to give this chicken a car, so that he can just drive across the road and not live his life like the rest of the chickens. ANDERSON COOPER, CNN: We have reason to believe there is a chicken, but we have not yet been allowed to have

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access to the other side of the road. NANCY GRACE: That chicken crossed the road because he's guilty! You can see it in his eyes and the way he walks. PAT BUCHANAN: To steal the job of a decent, hardworking American. MARTHA STEWART: No one called me to warn me which way that chicken was going. I had a standing order at the Farmer's Market to sell my eggs when the price dropped to a certain level. No little bird gave me any insider information. DR SEUSS: Did the chicken cross the road? Did he cross it with a toad? Yes, the chicken crossed the road, but why it crossed I've not been told. ERNEST HEMINGWAY: To die in the rain, alone. JERRY FALWELL: Because the chicken was gay! Can't you people see the plain truth? That's why they call it the 'other side'. Yes, my friends, that chicken is gay. And if you eat that chicken, you will become gay too. I say we boycott all chickens until we sort out this abomination that the liberal media whitewashes with seemingly harmless phrases like 'the other side.' That chicken should not be crossing the road. It's as plain and as simple as that. GRANDPA: In my day, we didn't ask why the chicken crossed the road. Somebody told us the chicken crossed the road, and that was good enough. BARBARA WALTERS: Isn't that interesting? In a few moments, we will be listening to the chicken tell, for the first time, the heartwarming story of how it experienced a serious case of molting, and went on to accomplish its lifelong dream of crossing the road. ARISTOTLE: It is the nature of chickens to cross the road. JOHN LENNON: Imagine all the chickens in the world crossing roads together, in peace. BILL GATES: I have just released eChicken2008, which will not only cross roads, but will lay eggs, file your important documents, and balance your checkbook. Internet Explorer is an integral part of eChicken2008. This new platform is much more stable and will never cra#@&&^(C%..........reboot... ALBERT EINSTEIN: Did the chicken really cross the road, or did the road move beneath the chicken ? COLONEL SANDERS: Did I miss one?

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J O H N WA L S H M A K I N G WAV E S I N T H E W AT E R W O R L D Hey, move over Michael Phelps, here comes 16 year-old, 185 pound, 6 foot-four, John Walsh who is making a big splash here in South Florida! John, now entering his Junior year at Pompano Beach High School, is an imposing figure, towering above all his friends and classmates. As a member of the swimming team, Pompano Piranhas, he helped in breaking 5 records during a 20-day championship meet at the Coral Springs Aquatic Center during the summer. This month, he and his team will be competing at the Florida States competition and will hopefully be noticed by college scouts on the lookout for new swimming talent. There is little question that John will be creating quite a stir. Basketball, Boy Scouts and Long-Distance running are also John’s passions, not to mentionJunior Life Guards. He maintains a straight A average, despite the heavy sports schedule. “We practice every day from 3:30 to 6 p.m., twice on Friday, and then do dry land excercises at the gym on Saturday,” says John.

John works on his favorite, the backstroke

As far as college is concerened, he hasn’t made a decision on his preference, but a swimming scholarship certainly is within reach. “The college I attend depends on which one gives me the best scholarship, he explains. Millie Walsh, John’s mom, owner of Body & Soul Boutique in the Shoppes of Beacon Light, couldn’t be prouder. One thing’s for sure — things are just going swimmingly!

John in the ready mode

John visiting mom at Body & Soul Boutique www.lhpmag.com

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The Hemingway Experience Continued from page 11 Not far from the El Pilar is a large, abandoned empty swimming pool, its bleached-out aqua paint just one of the signs of faded glory, and the pool in which Ava Gardner supposedly swam naked. You can imagine in your mind's eye what it must have been like back then, not to mention what transpired on the property. Viewing from the front entrance is the living room, bookcases lining the left and right side of the room, part of a collection totalling 9,000. An audio record collection of old 331/3 records is against the back wall. Hemingway’s tastes in music ran the gamut from piano and orchestral classics to the dance band music of Benny Goodman. Near the two chairs at the center of the room is a table displaying Schweppes Tonic Water, Campari, and other bottles that may have been Captain Morgan's and Pimms, all within hand's reach.

Swimming pool holds many memories

A painting by Roberto Domingo can be seen on the right wall. At the archway on the right far end of the living room is and animal head, and to right through the archway is the library. Entering this archway from the living room is a great driftwood tree root above the opening, this type of tree supposedly giving protection from evil because it grows at the edge of the sea, rooting both in water and land and bridging those two worlds. The door to the dining room lies straight ahead, just beyond the living room. The table is formerly set as though someone is expected for dinner. Hemingway's bedroom and study run the width of the house on the left when viewed from the front of the house. It opens off the left wall of the living room. The bed is to the left of the door; desk and bookcases to the right. The bathroom of white tile displays a scale and on the wall can be seen a scribbled record that Hemingway kept of his weight. On a shelf near the window is a bottle with the preserved body of a lizard one of his cats caught.

Front entrance to the Hemingway House

Above the desk in the library area is an impressive head of a large Cape Buffalo. On the wall are more bookcases and a bullfighting poster, advertising the mano a mano between Chico and Ortega. Hemingway always lived on the edge and very preoccupied with death. The Hemingway House left me with a feeling of both joy and sorrow for a man, struggling to find a place between light and darkness. You can feel his spirit and his torment within these walls, but you could never deny his greatness.

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Living room - “Papa’s” chair on far left

Portrait of the man on safari

The Dining Room The Study displays Cape Buffalo

The Bedroom

Animal heads adorn every room

GREEN LIVING

flight of the BumBleBee

Bee Colony Collapse Disorder has hit apiarists and the agricultural industry in the USA and Britain incredibly hard; with the British Beekeeping Association (BBKA) reporting bee populations falling by 30 percent last year - and it's a similar story in North America.

an initial single mite will destroy an entire colony within 2 - 3 years.

The exact cause is still not known, but it's now thought that viruses (virii?) carried by the Varroa Destructor mite, an introduced parasite, may be the main culprit. The Varroa Destructor mite is believed to have originated in Asia and increased transport between countries coupled with a generally warming climate has allowed it to enter and thrive in countries throughout the world. The Varroa Destructor mite latches onto the back of the bee, sucking the bees' blood and weakening it so that the bee can't fight off viruses carried by the mite, other diseases or withstand the rigors of its day to day life. Australia is now the last major beekeeping country free of the Varroa destructor mite - but we're expecting to see it pop up "any day" according to experts on the topic. Under the right conditions,

Bees provide so much more than just honey - they play a vital role in pollinating plants, among them more than 90 fruit and vegetable crops. Without bees, our food security is at an incredible risk, not to mention the wider environmental ramifications. Who would have ever thought that such a common creature such as our honey bees might become a threatened species? Update: According to an article on SFGate, The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency is refusing to disclose records about a class of pesticides (Clothianidin) that could be playing a role in Colony Collapse Disorder. The Natural Resources Defense Council wants to see the studies that the EPA required from Bayer Cropscience. The request was made under the Freedom of Information Act; but refused and the group is now suing for the release of the documents. Reproduced by permission of: Michael Bloch www.greenlivingtips.com

To Bee or Not to Bee Imidacloprid pesticide found to be disabling honey bee memory About four years ago, French and Italian beekeepers complained that imidachloprid crop spraying was killing their honey bees. So the French and Italian governments banned the nicotinebased pesticides. Jerry Hayes, Chief, Apiary Section, Florida Dept. of Agriculture, Gainsville, Florida: The interesting thing about the Colony Collapse Disorder is that bees are leaving the colony and not coming back, which is highly unusual for a social insect to leave a queen and its brood or young behind. They are seemingly going out and can't find their way back home. Imidachloprid, when it is used to control termites, does exactly the same thing. One of the methods it uses to kill termites is that the termites feed on this material and then go out to feed and can't remember how to get home. And it also causes their immune systems to collapse, causing what would be normal organisms to become pathogenic in them (bees). HAVE FARMERS BEEN USING IMIDACHLOPRID MORE THAN THEY HAVE IN THE PAST? At first it started out as a seed treatment to protect the seed as it germinated and developed. Now it is being used as a foliage spray, it's being used as a systemic, it's being combined with fungicides, which increases its efficacy. So, it's use has changed. Especially systemically, it does what it's supposed to do - it takes care of agricultural pests, which we want it to do. But there seems to be a disconnect sometimes that researchers and horticulturists

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forget that a honey bee is an insect. And of course, there are other insects out there that are valuable pollinators as well. So, systemically this material (imidachloprid) is found in the nectar - in many cases in low doses - not something that would kill a honey bee. So the question is: What does chronic exposure to the honey bee, either as an adult, or as the bees bring the material back to the nest to store and feed to developing young bees over time what does chronic exposure (to pesticides) do to the colony? National Academy of Sciences Concerned About General Decline of North American Pollinators Beyond the honey bees, Something is killing all the pollinators. Pollinators include honey bees, bumble bees, hornets, wasps, butterflies, hummingbirds and even bats. Something is happening in the environment that is causing all of those different species to decline - and currently the most dramatic event is the massive disappearance of honey bees. Beyond the bumble bees, threatened North American pollinators now include 115 species and subspecies of 57 butterflies, 2 moths, and 55 bees. How much of our food production do we want to turn over to other countries that might be friendly now and not friendly in the future? That's similar to our energy production problems right now. So, the federal government is looking at this and my question is: Are honey bees the canary in the coal mine? What are honey bees trying to tell us that we humans should be paying more attention to?

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4 Ta x - S m a r t I d e a s f o r M a n a g i n g Y o u r P o r t f o l i o Savvy investors have long realized that what their investments earn after taxes is what really counts. After factoring in federal income and capital gains taxes, the alternative minimum tax and potential state and local taxes, your investment returns in any given year may be reduced by 40% or more.

interest at 7.7%. Thus, for investors in a high tax bracket, the benefits of using municipal bonds in a fixed-income portfolio can be significant.

LHP FINANCE

1. Invest in Tax-Deferred and Tax-Free Accounts Tax-deferred investments include company-sponsored retirement savings accounts such as traditional 401(k) and 403(b) plans, traditional individual retirement accounts (IRAs) and annuities. In some cases, contributions to these accounts may be made on a pretax basis or may be tax deductible. More important, investment earnings compound tax deferred until withdrawal, typically in retirement, when you may be in a lower tax bracket.

3: Manage Investments for Tax Efficiency Tax-managed investment accounts are managed in ways that can help reduce their taxable distributions. Your investment manager can employ a combination of tactics, such as miniScott Lanza mizing portfolio turnover, investing in stocks that do not pay dividends and selectively selling stocks that have become less attractive at a loss to counterbalance taxable gains elsewhere in the portfolio.

2. Consider Investing in Municipal Bonds Municipal bonds are issued by state or local municipalities to fund public works projects such as new roads, stadiums, bridges or hospitals. The interest earned on municipal bonds is exempt from federal income taxes and may be exempt from state and local taxes (if purchased by residents of the issuing municipality), giving munis the potential to deliver higher returns on an after-tax basis than similar taxable corporate or government bonds. What this means is that although the interest paid on municipal bonds is typically lower than on taxable bonds, because it is tax free, it is, in effect, not as low as it appears. A simple calculation known as the "taxable-equivalent yield" can be used when considering an investment in a municipal bond.

4: Put Losses to Work At times, you may be able to use losses in your investment portfolio to help offset realized gains. Your realized losses in a given tax year must first be used to offset realized capital gains. If you have "leftover" losses, you can offset up to $3,000 against ordinary income. Any remainder can be carried forward to offset gains or income in future years. Keeping an eye on how taxes can affect your investments is one of the easiest ways to help enhance your returns over time. For more information about the tax aspects of investing, consult a qualified tax advisor.

For instance, if your income tax rate is 35%, a municipal bond paying 5% interest is actually a better investment than a taxable bond paying

Scott Lanza, Certified Financial Planner & Branch Manager of Lighthouse Point Financial welcomes your inquiries at 954-5825233. 2036 E Sample Road in the Gateway Centre.

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Johnny Depp Performs at Club Cinema By Jan Davey When Captain Jack Sparrow swapped his cutlass for a steel guitar, the women screamed and strong men turned away, describes approximately what happened when Johnny Depp made his appearance on the stage of Club Cinema, just across the road from Lighthouse Point, during the Sheila Witkin memorial concert on Labor day weekend. Fans lining up for tickets were clearly skeptical whether their idol would really come down from Mount Olympus and mingle with us plebeians. At least, not in a rundown sort-of private night club, in an unobtrusive sort-of suburb. Neither did the low key security presence outside the venue signal the arrival of a celebrity of Johnny's stature. The crowd of some 2,500 had to wait until 12:30 am before he started to play for more than an hour with his former band, the Kids, entertaining us with Rock. What impressed me was his low key appearance, obviously at his request. All he wanted to be was a "singer" (and rhythm guitarist) in a Rock ‘n Roll" band, and thrilled the crowd with his strumming the best sounds out of his Fender Telecaster, which I must admit was surprisingly good. There was no question that Johnny Depp was the draw card, as we waited hopefully backstage for an autograph picture for my grandson. Performing

members of the other bands departing the gates were hardly acknowledged by the waiting crowd gathered for a closer glimpse of Depp. The event was a sequel to last year's memorial charity concert in honor of Sheila Witkin who was a promoter for South East Florida rock bands in the eighties. Depp was a student at Miramar, Fla and dropped out of high school when he was 15 years-old to pursue a musical future before he moved to LA where his acting career took off. I was raised on good old Rock & Roll before the advent of the super distorting amplifiers. You know what I mean, when you could still distinguish between the melody and the words. I must admit that I never really got a grip on the socalled 80's heavy metal stuff, which was mostly the repertoire of the bands in the opening acts for about four hours. So the price tag for me to see Jonny Depp up close and personal was to have my DNA rearranged like a cat being stroked against the fur. But it was worth the while to come within 20 feet from the man and observe how a crowd can energize and create "mythical" idols that mostly influence our live from a distance on a movie screen or a stage.

Going Green...the Easy Way By Jill Johns Environmental concerns, declining resources, and the cost of oil are significant issues we are facing today. There are easy measures we can take in our home to help the environment, preserve our resources and reduce our expenses. Install a programmable thermostat. This device can save approximately $150 a year according to the EPA. Averaging 78 degrees or higher when you are at home will reduce your cooling loads 10-20%. When you are away, increasing the temperature to 85 degrees can save an additional 5-12%. In colder weather, for every degree you lower the thermostat, you can save between 1-3% on your heating bill. A difference of 2 degrees can reduce a home's CO2 emissions by up to 9 percent over the course of a year. Upgrade to Energy Star appliances (designed by the EPA)-These designated appliances are 10-50% more efficient. As a result, lower energy bills and less pollution. Reduce the water heater temperature and install a water heater blanket-Lowering the temperature from 140-120 degrees can reduce heating costs by 6-10%. A blanket can cut your home's CO2 emissions by almost 4½ percent. Air filters-Changing or cleaning the air filters (depending on the type of filter you have) in your heating and cooling systems regularly can take 2 percent off of your CO2 output each year.

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Low-flow water fixtures-These fixtures can save water consumption 50-70%. Unplug unused chargers-They still draw electricity thus increasing your electric bill up to 8% annually. Turn off your computer at night. Recycle and utilize recycled products-For example, instead of purchasing regular aluminum foil, buy recycled. Recycled foil uses 1/20th of the energy needed to produce regular foil. Install Compact Fluorescent Lights (CFL)-CFL's use one third less energy than traditional bulbs. If every household in America switched five regular light bulbs for five fluorescent bulbs, it would be the equivalent of taking 1 million cars off the highways for a full year. Xeirscape-Implement low water or drought tolerant plants, scrubs, trees, and grass. You may also consider incorporating stones and rockscapes. Outdoor solar lighting--These yard or patio lights cost less than $20, and they do not burn any electricity or produce any CO2. These simple, important steps will provide long-term benefits for our enjoyment and generations to come. For more ideas, please call the Tobin-Johns Realty Group (954) 290-3433 or (954) 552-7830.

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Master Groomer Kristin Goetz opens Salon Kristin Goetz has been a Certified Master Groomer for the past 20 years, spending 15 of those years at Pet Haven Pet Salon in Lighthouse Point. “I’ve reached a point in my life when I need to bring a wider array of services to my clientele, and a way to better express my creativity,” says Kristin. It’s a bitter-sweet moment for her in announcing the opening of the new store, Head to Tail Pet Salon in Coconut Creek, because she leaves a job she has really loved, as well as leaving the many pet lovers who relied on her so much in making their precious animals look beautiful and healthy. Specialities at Head to Tail Pet Salon will include stripping and carding terriers and other breeds. Only natural and organic shampoos and conditioners will be used, and Kristen will carry a complete line of holistic pet foods for cats and dogs. Dogs serviced by Kristin have been shown at prestigious events, such as Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show. “I want to thank all my clients that I’ve gotten to know in my 15 years at Pet Haven, and will sadly miss them and the many years of joy they have given me!” she exclaims. Kristin is a single mom with two lovely daughters, Sarae,11, and Megan, 17. Head and Tail Pet Salon is located at 6536 N. State. Rd. in Coconut Creek. Please call 954-421-1332.

Kristin Goetz

Exchange Club Honors Students By Jack Palo As this school year begins, the Exchange Club of Pompano Beach invites the teachers and counselors from the local high schools to recommend students for a prestigious academic award. Once selected, the students are invited to attend the Exchange Club's weekly lunch meeting where they are presented with a plaque honoring their achievement. Wednesday, September 3rd, 2008, Club Student Programs chair, Jim Balistreri presented the plaques and asked the students what they felt was the greatest issue facing our country. This month's students are being honored as the "Most outstanding" students in their respective schools. This month's awards: Deerfield Beach High School: Sonika Data, Kendrick Rear, L to R: Sonika Data, Cristina Nelson, Christopher McConville, Karlton Weaver, Jackie Fitzgerald; Pompano Beach High School: Babb and Jim Balistreri, Exchange Club Student Chairpersonclub student programs chair. Karlton Weaver, Jackie Babb; Cardinal Front, L to R: Jenna Pirrie, Jordan Chapman, Kendrick Fitzgerald Gibbons: Christopher McConville, Cristina grams receiving support and participation from the club Nelson; Highland Christian: Jenna Pirrie and Jordan include, drop-out prevention, special education and tutoring Chapman. assistance. The Exchange Club recognizes and promotes academic The club has had a wonderful diversity of students in these achievement in our community as the key to our future sucprograms and looks forward to continuing to recognize many cess and has a number of educational programs in place. Not more well into our future. only does the club honor outstanding students, they also honor those students submitted by their teachers and counselors for academic improvement. Other educational prowww.lhpmag.com

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MORTGAGE NEWS

2008 Housing and Economic Recovery Act

Last month I told you about new rules being put in place by the Federal Reserve to protect the borrower in future mortgage transactions. This month I would like to focus on a few aspects of the Housing and Economic Recovery Act, taking effect October 1, 2008, to help current home Mary Griffin owners and make it more affordable to purchase a home. This program is designed for primary residences only. It does not apply to investment or second homes. There are provisions in the bill that especially benefit our area and are aimed at making owning a home more affordable. They include: • Raising conforming loan limits (non-jumbo) for the FHA, Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac to $625,500 from $423,750. This will especially help some borrowers in the LHP area refinance or purchase into a more affordable loan than before when they would have had to take higher interest rate jumbo pricing. • A refundable tax credit for first-time homebuyers. It is basically an interest-free loan up to $7,500 to be paid back over 15 years. • Providing couples using the standard deduction with up to an additional $1,000 deduction for property taxes ($500 for individuals). ,

• Through FHA, will help struggling homeowners keep their homes with a special refinancing program. To be eligible, your current monthly mortgage payment, back to March 1, 2008, has to be greater than 31% of your total monthly income. You must prove that you have not intentionally defaulted on an existing mortgage and did not obtain the existing loan fraudulently. The FHA lender will determine the size of the loan that a borrower can afford to repay and that meets the requirements of the program. If the current lender agrees to write-down the amount of the existing mortgage and make the new loan affordable, the FHA lender will pay off the discounted existing mortgage. Lenders are not required to participate in this program, it is completely voluntary, some lenders may not agree to a write-down. Note: For the past months many lenders are already doing modifications of mortgages, most adjusting the terms for at least a temporary amount of time, but not usually writing down any portion of it. Feel free to contact me with any questions. At the time of writing this article the bill is being interpreted and is still "wet cement" so there may be some modifications by the time it takes affect on October 1st. Mary Griffin is a Certified Mortgage Planner to Howard Grace and Associates, 625 S.E. 10th Street in Deerfield Beach. She welcomes all your mortgage questions at (954) 421-3255, e-mail her at [email protected]. Website: www.howardgracemortgage.com

THE GREEN THEME WILL UNITE US ALL! We are a gregarious bunch, who learned early on in our evolution that there is strength in numbers. It is the credo of most living animals in this world. Lions do it in prides, buffalo in herds, birds in flocks, bish in shoals and humans do it in communities at first, then tribes and eventually end up as Erica Davey nations. Through time, nations and borders have come and gone and today we have the so-called modern world. But, it was as if "destiny" decided, only a short while ago, that it was time to accelerated our advancement as a specie and free us from the clutches of our dark ages, by dumping huge amounts of knowledge in our midst during the Renaissance. Followed by only 400 years ago when America was founded and populate by migrating humans from all over for whatever reason. The continent of North America and the American nation plays a very important role in the dynamics of constant change the world finds itself in. It is like a crucible, where many different metals (cultures) were melted to produce a very special alloy when we add to these metals the most powerful "catalyst" that has EVER been spoken in any language: "All men are created equal and have the right to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness." And the end product looked something like this: "Land of the free, Home of the brave"…Americans!

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It is this American Nation that not only honored us with acceptance as new citizens on 18 July 08, but who actually made us feel welcome as part of them. It is great to be truly an American, after waiting 12 years for the moment, and I will always ask first: "What I can do for my country," starting right here in my hometown of Lighthouse Point. Please forgive my indulgence in my personal life story in my monthly "Greenstuff" column, but it is a humongous event for us, which I would like to announce from the rooftops. But this America also has a Green side which I really like. It has the ability to realize that it has made mistakes (mostly out of naivite or lack of knowledge at the time), accepts responsibility and then try to fix it, actually setting the pace for the world to follow. Even if we eliminate all political or religious rhetoric from the equation, there is no question about it - we have a lot to fix. I have this positive premonition that the GREEN THEME will eventually unite us all as brothers and sisters; not only to reverse the damage we have done to our planet, but to teach us tolerance and respect for each other in a "Brave new World." Where Real Estate meets Community service, Erica as a seasoned Realtor with ReMax is there to assist you. Contact her at 954 695 4211.

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SKIN BEAUTY

What ’s Ne w With Acne and Rosacea? By Melanie S. Hecker, MD, MBA

ACNE VULGARIS Most physicians were taught that diet is unrelated to the cause of acne. We dismiss frequent questions by patients and family members as to whether eating greasy foods, chocolate or other sweets causes their acne. The diet issue, however, has gained new vitality of late in the dermatology literature, with various studies implicating milk, high-glucose load diets, and low-fiber/high saturated fats intake as possibly contributing to an increase in acne. From all of these studies is what's clear is that there is good reason to revisit the diet issue. At the Harvard School of Public Health in Boston, MA, a study where teenage girl participants self-reported a greater consumption of milk - whether whole, low-fat or skim- on food frequency questionnaires was independently associated with acne severity. Those who drank two or more servings a day during the two-year study period were roughly 20% more likely to have acne than girls who drank less than one serving per week. In another Harvard study of teenage boys, again the researchers found a link between milk intake and acne. This time though, the relationship was only significant for skim milk. The investigators hypothesis is that cow hormones and other bioactive agents contained in milk products have an effect on acne. It is not being recommended to avoid drinking milk to avoid acne. However, a substitute such as drinking hormone-free, organic milk may help the teenager with acne.

ROSACEA

For symptomatic Rosacea, a round of pulsed dye laser treatments appears to be substantially more cost effective than medical therapy over the course of a year according to one recent retrospective study. Because most patients only need 2-3 laser treatments to improve the symptoms and stop the progression of the disease for about 3-5 years, the cost effectiveness of the pulsed dye laser over medical therapy grows with time. In addition, the unresponsiveness of dilated blood vessels on the face to topical therapy or systemic therapy in Rosacea makes the condition often frustrating to treat medically. Often we can only control the disease, but permanent redness and damage has been done. That is removed with the pulsed dye laser. Although topical and oral medical therapy is still the gold standard, what is probably the best approach are several treatments with the pulsed dye laser then management with less medication to keep the Rosacea from recurring with time. For more information about this exciting topic or if you suffer from acne or Rosacea, please call Hecker Dermatology Group for an appointment. New patients are welcome and many insurances accepted. Contact us at: 954-783-2323 or visit us on-line: www.heckerderm.com. www.lhpmag.com

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LEGAL MATTERS

Marital and Family Law Perspectives Resolving Conflict

Ralph Nicols wrote that "the most basic of all human needs is to understand and be understood. The best way to understand people is to listen to them." Nicols' writings include "Listening and Speaking: A Guide to Effective Oral Communication" which is a text that can be found in 218 college Catherine Iaconis Favitta libraries throughout the country. There is no documentation on how many college students have checked out that book. Our sons, Greg and John, are both in college out of the area, and recently moved into new apartments. After having a series of roommates, they are both enjoying living on their own. A common thread in their desire to live alone: it is hard to live with other students who have different friends, interests, and habits. College students usually do not have the time or opportunity to communicate and get to know each other before they become roommates. As a result, it is easy to solve conflict by changing roommates at the end of each term, with the hope that the next roommate will be more compatible. Married couples sometimes feel like roommates when they have different opinions about working, spending money, purchasing major items, disciplining children, and tending to household responsibilities. The options for solving conflict are not as easy for

married couples as they are for college students, and couples often cannot reach resolutions on their own. Sometimes couples seek help from professionals. Counseling is a popular and helpful option, especially when provided by churches. However, when couples find themselves involved with the Family Court system, mediation is a method that can help keep them from spending a lot of money, when they cannot resolve their differences on their own or through counseling. The goal of Family Court mediation is to resolve family law issues, including support calculations, time-sharing schedules for children, distribution of assets, and parenting issues, in a cost-effective manner. A successful mediation avoids putting these important issues in the hands of a judge, who is a stranger to the family. Instead, a neutral mediator listens to both sides, and strives to help the couple create a settlement agreement, after understanding that family's unique needs. Mediation attempts to help a couple listen to each other, communicate, and create solutions in ways author Ralph Nicols promotes. Catherine is a Marital and Family Law Attorney, and Florida Supreme Court Certified Family Law Mediator, who lives in Lighthouse Point. Please feel free to visit Catherine's website at http://www.FavittaLawFirm.com and ask any Family Law related question.

Is Pig Heart Transplantation Close to a Reality? Last year, 93,000 people waited for a pig-to-human heart transplant with 6,500 sadly dying. Scientists have great hope that organs from pigs that have been genetically engineered will soon help people awaiting transplants. Transplantation between two different species, known as xenotransplantation, can cause severe immune attacks, but there has been some success using pig skin and pig valves. When a pig organ is transplanted into a baboon, antibodies circulating in the baboon’s blood immediately swarm and attack the pig tissue, leading to death of the tissue. A problem using pig organs is that they are coated with sugar molecules that trigger acute rejection in people. Human antibodies attach themselves to these sugar molecules and quickly destroy the newly transplanted pig organ. In England, Lord Winston, a fertility expert, is beginning to breed pigs in order to produce hearts, livers and kidneys for transplanting in humans. The pigs will be bred with about six human genes to prevent patients rejecting the organs. Winston’s team will have to prove that the pig organs can be sufficiently modified to

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survive long-term in the body. Lord Winston is moving the research project from Britain to America after British regulations and a shortage of funding prevented experiments there. The pigs will be bred in Missouri. PPL Therapeutics PLC of Scotland, the company that helped clone Dolly the sheep, produced five cloned piglets that lack a copy of the sugar-producing gene. It is expected that organs from genetically modified pigs could be transplanted into people without the problem of tissue rejection. Winston’s method of creating genetically modified animals involves either injecting human genes, carried by a virus, into the testicles of piglets or adding them directly to the sperm. He argues that the technique is more feasible and humane than rival methods, which involve cloning pigs and adding the genes to the cloned embryos before they are transferred into the sow’s womb. How close we are to the day when a pig organ can safely be trnsplanted into a human will much depend on being certain that lethal viruses would not be passed from pigs to humans. That day may be nearer than we think.

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STRANGE, BUT TRUE ! • The area between your nose and mouth with the two vertical lines is called the "philtrum." • Pretzels without salt are called "baldies." • "Pennsylvania" is missing an "n" and thus misspelled on the Liberty Bell. • The Sand Swimmer snake swims through loose sand like it is water. • The Collared Lizard can run on its two hind legs. • The Road Runner is a bird that can run up to 17 mph. • The Archer Fish spits at bugs up to 6 feet away to knock them into the water to eat. • The Velvet Worm fires lassos of glue up to 3 feet to ensnare insect prey. • Pistol Shrimp "shoots" water and sound from its pincher to stun its prey. • The Frogfish can expand the volume of its mouth by 12 times in less than six-thousandths of a second, making it one of the fastest feeding vertebrates known to science. • The Chameleon's tongue is longer than its body. • Manhole covers are round so that they don't fall in the hole. • It is possible for hot water to freeze faster than cold water. • The anaconda it the largest living snake. • The capybara is the largest living rodent. • The hardest substance in the human body is the enamel of the

teeth. • A & W root beer takes its name from the last names of business partners Roy Allen and Frank Wright. • Atomic bombs release 50% energy as blast, 35% as heat and 15% as nuclear radiation. • Paper money isn't made out of paper; it's made out of cotton. • The Declaration of Independence was written on hemp paper. • Because metal was scarce, the Oscars given out during World War II were made of plaster. • Leonardo da Vinci could write with one hand and draw with the other at the same time. • Warren Beatty and Shirley MacLaine are brother and sister. • Ketchup was sold in the 1830s as medicine. • Upper and lower case letters are named 'upper' and 'lower' because in the time when all original print had to be set in individual letters, the 'upper case' letters were stored in the case on top of the case that stored the smaller, 'lower case' letters. • There are no clocks in Las Vegas gambling casinos. • The mask used by Michael Myers in the original "Halloween" was a Captain Kirk mask painted white. • The first product Motorola developed was a record player for automobiles. At that time, the most known player on the market was the Victrola, so they called themselves Motorola.

Green Harriet WHEN PICNICKING, IT’S EASY BEING GREEN! In Florida, we can picnic anytime. Here are some green hints: 1. STAY LOCAL — Drive Less to save gas, reduce pollutants, and put fewer miles on your car. Even try walking or biking to a park or picnic grounds. 2. USE REUSABLES — Buy reusable utensils, tablecloths, coldpacks, thermoses, insulated bags, packs, plastic containers, cloth napkins, dish towels, etc. Yard sales are excellent sources of great used reusable equipment for picnics. In the United States, reusable plastic containers are made of the plastic that has a symbol #5 PP (polypropylene) on the bottom. According to research by The Green Guide Institute, there is no known harm to health from #5 plastic, whereas other kinds of plastic in some other forms of wrapping can leach harmful chemicals into the food. If you must buy disposables, buy those made of recycled paper. 3. SHOP HEALTHY — Visit your health food store for organic wines and juices. Filter water at home and invest in a stainless steel thermos for carrying the water cold to the site of the picnic. 4. USE METAL CHARCOAL CHIMNEY — Avoid Petroleum-Based Lighter Fluid. Petroleum-based lighter fluid is not a renewable resource and it also causes toxic air pollution. With charcoal metal

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chimneys you fill the cylinder with charcoal, scrunch newspaper under the charcoal in the special housing for this purpose, and then light the newspaper to heat up the coals. Once the coals are red hot you turn over the cylinder and pour the coals into the bed of the grill. You can buy a charcoal chimney for under $20 at most hardware stores, and reuse it for years. All you need to light the charcoal are some old newspapers and matches. 5. CHOOSE FRESH, LOCAL, ORGANIC FOODS — Local organic farms are a treasure for any community. They caretake the environment, and provide wholesome nourishing food. If you choose to eat meat, reduce the amount you would take and make sure the meat is organic. It takes 9 pounds of wheat to produce 1 pound of meat so eating vegetables is much better for the environment. Nonorganic meat is raised with antibiotics, sometimes animals are fed food made with gene modified grains, and requires huge amounts of resources. Additive-free, whole foods are healthier! 6. PACK IT IN, PACK IT OUT — Take Away Your Garbage and Others’ Too! Litter left behind can contaminate water, land and more, harm wildlife, and is often not biodegradable, or very slow to degrade. The easiest way to handle garbage is to take a few used grocery bags and separate your garbage into recyclable categories using the bags. Wear a pair of gloves and pick up others’ garbage as you go!

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CANTANKEROUSLY YOURS

A Gadgetholics Paradise

Dear Fellow Consumers, I am one of the few guys in the world who loves to shop. I usually go by myself because my wife doesn't understand anything about the necessities of life. For the same reason, my wife tries to discourage me from going shopping with her. Sometimes, however, she needs me to come along as schlepper. Lifting. Toting. Stacking By Wendell Abern bags into the car trunk. Hauling groceries from car to house. You know -- all those carrying chores that augment my macho image. When she doesn't need me, she tries to sneak out without telling me. Like last week. I was watching a ball game and she had assembled all her traveling paraphernalia - purse, bottled water, keys out after minutes of frantic fumbling in the bottom of her purse - and was writing a note to me, assuming I'd fall asleep and find her gone. "Wait," I shout. "Are you going shopping?" "Yes. By myself." "Where are you going?" "It doesn't matter, I don't need a schlepper." "What are you getting?" Deep sigh. Closed eyes. Good sign. Confession coming. "Just some guest towels." "Aha! You're going to Bed, Bath & Beyond!" "Oh, Lord love a duck." I jump up and grab my keys and wallet. I am a self-professed gadgetholic, and to me, Bed, Bath & Beyond is paradise. It's not just a store. It's an Idea Mart, jammed with great products. "We're not going anywhere," my wife says, "unless you agree to not sneak silly and unnecessary gizmos into the shopping cart. I will not have another scene like the one you caused at the check-out counter last time we went to BB&B." "I caused? You were the one who started ranting and raving!" "Because you had slipped a cherry-pitter into our shopping cart! We buy cherries once a year!" "It also pits olives." "The only olives we buy are already pitted, and that cherry/olive-pitter, which you claim every home needs, costs eleven dollars and ninetyeight cents! Now I want your agreement before we go. No smuggling." "Okay, okay." Clearly, I need a new strategy. I decide on good old-fashioned salesmanship, emphasizing benefits before my wife can argue irrelevancies such as need and price. We start browsing separately, until I catch up with her in glassware, confidently presenting a six-piece Wine Tool Kit. "It comes with a foil cutter," I claim. Glare. "It even has a wax remover." "When is the last time we opened a bottle of wine?" "I don't remember exactly." "It was for your fiftieth birthday. Twenty-five years ago. Go put that back." I amble around for a while and come back with Tater Mitts. "Look at these!" I say. "You can peel potatoes in eight seconds!" "Wonderful. Back on the shelf." Benefits are not working. I decide on a new tactic: decoys. I'll show her an item I know she'll reject, followed by one she'll approve. I leave her and go browsing, appearing at her cart just as she reaches chinaware.

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"Okay, how's this?" I ask. "An electric back hair shaver, for only $39.99." "You don't have any hair on your back!" Decoy rejected. So far, so good. "Okay, you're right. But what about this?" I say, confidently thrusting the real item at her. "Just what we've always needed. A Tea Bag Squeezer." "Hey, it's only $2.99. And not only that, it gives you a place to rest the tea bag when you're through squeezing it." She reverts to Mollify Mode. In her best "That-confirms-it-I'm-married-to-a-six-year-old" voice, she says, "We rarely even drink tea. Now take these both back." Then, just as pleasantly, "Why don't you get your own cart, and meet me at the check-out counter in ten minutes?" Miffed, I set out on my own once again, determined to find something that exposes an obvious void in our condo, and a critical, immediate need. She reaches the check-out counter before me and is standing in line, two older women in front of her. As I approach her with my discovery, she puts on her menacing, "This-better-be-good-or-you-can-make-yourown-dinner" frown. I am not intimidated. "This," I say dramatically, tenderly hefting a long box out of my cart, "is a Hi-Reach Cleaning Kit, complete with a telescoping pole that reaches up to fourteen feet." She turns and makes a silent appeal to the woman in front of her, who is viewing the proceedings with a big grin on her face. "We've lived here for nine years, and we've never cleaned the ceiling," I argue. Shoulders slumping dramatically, my wife says to the woman in front of her, "Would you take him, please?" The woman laughs. "No, thanks. Mine's just as bad." I bristle. "You women don't know how to shop." I refuse to put into words the look my wife exchanged with this other woman. Suffice it to say it was a silent, blanket denunciation of the entire testosterone universe. Then I spy the guest towels my wife had bought. Pink. With embossed pink flowers. "Hey!" I yell. "We use my bathroom for guests! You're not putting pink guest towels in my bathroom!" "Oh, pipe down. It's only for when guests come." We drive home in silence. I am rankled at being shut out of important purchases, and having to tolerate pink guest towels. However, I take some solace in anticipating my snack - a snack carefully hidden from the judgmental eyes of you-know-who. As I say, my wife is incapable of understanding the necessities of life. This applies especially to food. And since she discovered I hide salamis in my tool box, I have had to get really creative. I will share with you here my newest secret hiding place: in the hollow at the back of our portable radio, empty until we insert batteries. Waiting for me there is a small bag of M&Ms. Since I don't know what to do with the M&Ms if a hurricane approaches - and I have to actually insert batteries - I try to eat them as quickly as I can. This will be my third bag this week. Cantankerously Yours, Wendell Abern Wendell Abern can be reached at [email protected], or by email at: [email protected]

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ON RELIGION

By Reverend Jack Noble

Looking Back I have this propensity to look back and think that some other time in life was the best there ever was. When I do that, I must admit, I am such a fool. In my first parish out of seminary there was a woman who was ninety-eight years old when I arrived. From time-to-time I would go to visit her, and at times I would ask her why I had not seen her in worship, and she would always respond with a wink, and say that she had "graduated from church!" She was a sheer and absolute delight, with a mind as keen as ever. As a young girl she had come to that small mid-western hamlet, way back before the turn of the last century. She would always have some marvelous story to tell. She was as gentle a soul as one would ever hope to meet. Sometimes on a good day she could talk for hours spinning out stories about how life had been. Some of her telling would be filled with pain, while other parts would be crowded with happiness and joy. And I would always wonder, if she ever wanted to go back. During my time there she turned one hundred - which was a lavish event for both her and the entire town. As one might expect, she was the center of attention, regaling everyone with stories about her life, all over-laid with a great sense of humor. Then from somewhere, someone gave voice to my unasked question: "Do you ever want to go back?" After long pause, for which I was certain she waiting to be sure everyone was listen she replied, "Well let me tell you about the good old days - I was there, and they weren't so good!" Everyone laughed, but no one with more delight than my friend. Over the years since then, I have thought often about her, and her brief but wise commentary on life, especially when I begin to think that the best - in whatever area of my life has already been. There are those times when I start to tell people, "O, you should have known me when…" Or, I begin some story with, "Ahh, that was a great time when I…" What a mistake we make when we begin to act or think like that! If life teaches us anything at all, it is that there's always something new up ahead, if we just look for it!

BACK FROM VACATION? WOULD YOU LIKE T O TELL YOUR TRAVEL ST ORY? EMAIL US TODA Y AT: [email protected] TODAY

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WE LOVE OUR PETS By Elizabeth Correa HALLOWEEN SAFETY TIPS FOR PETS Leaving your pets outside on Halloween is not a god idea. There are plenty of tales of malicious people who tease, injure, steal, torture, even killed peoples pets on Halloween. Not to mention that dogs and cats can scare easily with all the trick-or-treaters coming to your house. Here are some tips to keep your pets happy on Halloween. As much as your dog or cat may beg for some of your Halloween candies, always remember that chocolate is deadly to them in any amount. The wrappers, such as tin foil, can get stuck in your pet's digestive tract and make them ill or cause death. Remember, your pets can't tell you what's wrong and what bothers them. They are more easily frightened since they have no idea what's going on. There are many natural aides to help them relax and ease anxiety and nervousness. Be sympathetic and treat them like you'd want to be treated if you were them! If you are having an indoor party, make sure that you put your dog or cat in a room where they won't be disturbed. Unless your pet is ultra friendly and doesn't mind loud noises, music and lots of people you should keep them separate for the night. Also, be careful your cat or dog doesn't dart out through the open door as you hand out candy. Best bet is to just put them in a room with some food and water for the night and check on them once in a while to let them know everything is fine. Dogs can have lethal tails, wagging all over the place. Don't leave any lighted candles or Jack-O-Lanterns where they could be knocked over by a swinging tail or by a curious cat. Not only could your pet start a fire but they could severely burn themselves in the process. If you own a cat and let it go outside, remember that this a bad time of year for cats. Vicious people tend to find Halloween an excuse to hurt or kill them. Keep them inside for a while. They are safer inside on a daily basis anyway. If you put a mask of some type on your animal, make sure that the eye holes are big enough for them to see peripherally. Animals depend on their vision to let them know what's going on and even the nicest dog can get snippy if he can't see what's around him. In fact, masks really aren't a good idea. Make Sure Your Pets are Collared and Tagged. Your pet should always wear a collar or tag. While certain times of the year are key times for pets to become lost, a pet can escape at any time. Wearing a collar or tag ensures that your pet makes its way back to you quickly. Getting Halloween treats for your visitors and kids? Don't forget to stop by Gigi + Luca to pick up a box of dog or cat treats for them as well! Gigi + Luca Pet Boutique, The Shoppes at Beacon Light, 1825 NE 24 St, Lighthouse Point, 954-784-8755, or our site: www.gigiandluca.com

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ASK THE DENTIST

By Marc Sander,DDS,FAGD

YOUR CHILD’S FIRST DENTAL VISIT In this article, I would like to present some ideas that can enhance your child's first dental experience. For many of us, dental visits have been uncomfortable, stressful experiences. I have seen new patients whose first words to me are "nothing personal doc, but I don't like dentists". The good news is that these patients leave our office with a pleasant, dental experience for the very first time. With a pleasant initial visit, your child can have a positive, stressfree experience from the very start.

to your child about their upcoming appointment rather than surprising them the day of the appointment.

Prior to scheduling your child's first visit to the office, let the dentist and the staff know if you have any concerns. At this time, you should discuss any special needs that your child may have, as well as any negative feelings he or she may have about their upcoming visit. When preparing for your child's visit it is my recommendation that you not say statements like, "don't worry, the dentist is nice and it won't hurt". Such statements may unintentionally introduce the idea of fear to your child about their upcoming appointment.

Your child's first dental experience is very important. A caring, friendly office that will take time with your child is crucial. It is not only important psychologically, but will also affect how your child will view the care of his or her teeth. A good dental team can shape your child's visit into a wonderful, positive experience that will last a lifetime.

When it is time to schedule an appointment (unless there is a dental emergency), your child's first visit should be scheduled for an examination and a cleaning. Simple x-rays may also be taken at this time, if necessary. It is important to begin talking

T HE E YES

HAVE IT

Dr. Sander is a Fellow of the Academy of General Dentistry, a member of the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry, the Dental Organization for Conscious Sedation, numerous study clubs including the Woehler Research Group, as well as dental associations including the ADA, FDA, ACDDA and BCDA. Questions for Dr. Sander can be sent to [email protected]

Contact Lenses — New Materials & Designs

If you couldn't wear them before, you probably can now. Current state-of-theart materials are created for maximum oxygen transmission and moisture retention. New astigmatic and bifocal designs continue to be unveiled, that are more comfortable and provide clearer and more stable vision, than designs of the past. Most lenses available, based on their Dr. Steven Wigdor material and design, have their own set of characteristics, giving them advantages and disadvantages that need to be considered on an individual basis. Generally speaking, some lenses tend to feel less dry, some are more comfortable, and some seem to provide clearer vision. There is no specific lens that will never get dry, provide great vision, and always feels comfortable for everyone that wears them. The newer silicon materials exploding onto the market, allow more oxygen than most lenses of the past, but a lack of oxygen is not necessarily a widespread problem, especially for those not sleeping with their contacts. Silicon lenses also have less water content, and therefore have less water evaporating from there surface. This means that less water would have to be replaced by your own tears, resulting in a lens possibly feeling less dry. Unfortunately, these materials are often less supple, and on some eyes results in less comfort.

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During the appointment, the dentist and hygienist should take the time to show your child the different instruments, how they are used and the sounds they make. At our office, the friendly members of our dental team will greet your child and answer any questions that he or she may have. By preparing your child in this positive manner they will not be afraid of the unknown.

Lighthouse Point Magazine

These proven new lens materials are now also being used in more lens designs. This allows the previous unsuccessful astigmatic or bifocal wearer a new chance at success. It is common for an experienced physician to choose a design and material based on your prescription, tear quality, and vision needs. If oxygen is not as important a criteria, a lens that has more frequent success for the dry eye patient can be tried. If dryness is of concern there are also other options other than silicon lenses, such as Extreme H2O, and Proclear, that are designed to be less dry and might prove to be the lens of choice for your needs. It is obviously also important to choose a physician and an office that fits a large variety of lens designs and materials and not just a few for simplicity sake. Most top companies do make a lens that will be successful on a large group of people. There are also many people, that by taking a little extra time, and trying a few more designs, results in a much more satisfied and successful contact lens wearer. Remember, everyone has hindsight - protect your eyesight! Dr. Steven Wigdor, an Optometric Physician and contact lens clinical investigator, and his staff, welcome your calls and questions in Lighthouse Point at 954-943-6210. You can also visit them at 3650 N. Federal Highway in the Venetian Isle Shops, or on the web at www.eyecareandeyewear.com

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Lighthouse Point Magazine

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REAL ESTATE NEWS

What Happened to the Real Estate Market? A look at the numbers

By James M. Balistreri, CRB, CIPS One of the best ways to find out to what happened to the real estate market is to study the numbers. The numbers will also help predict the future. While we will use the Realtor Association of Jim Balistreri Greater Ft. Lauderdale's MLS statistics, which represents mostly Broward, one could safely argue that on average, these numbers and trends reflect the general South Florida market. So let's start in 2001 when the market was "normal" and work our way to 2008 looking at the one month snapshot of July. The number of closed single family homes progressed from year 2001 as follows: 1,301 (July 2001); 1,331; 1,718 (July 2003); 1,387; 1,083 (July 2005); 778; 618; and 607 (July 2008). The closed condos trended as follows: 1,130 (July 2001); 1,233; 1,478 (July 2003); 1,206; 1,137 (July 2005); 811; 569; and 561 (July 2008). As you can see, from the "normal" market of 2001, closed home sales are off by 114% and by 99% in condos. That means demand has been cut in half or more. The next set of numbers that reflect supply is the available inventory which was first reported beginning in 2003 through 2008. Here is the single family home trend of active inventory: 4,881 (July 2003); 2,933; 3,007; 10,502 (July 2006); 12,272 and 12,257 (July 2008). The active condo supply trended as follows: 4,189 (July 2003); 2,566; 3,026; 13,087 (July 2006); 16,748 and

LIBRARY NEWS

15,530 (July 2008). What is most apparent on the supply side is the huge spike in inventory in 2006 shooting up 249% in homes and 332% in condos. And finally, let's look at the average sales price of single family homes: $251K (July 2001); $265K; $283K (July 2003); $364K; $498K (July 2005); $468K; $484K; $393K (July 2008). The average sales price for condos has trended as follows: $102K (July 2001); $123K; $138K (July 2003); $171K; $245K (July 2005); $257K; $227K; $213K (July 2008). As available inventory spiked in 2006, prices began to decline almost without exception. What does the future hold - it is best predicted by supply and demand. While demand is increasing slightly month over month (that's good news), supply continues to be high. Until available inventory diminishes, there will be downward pressure on pricing if basic economic principles apply. If you are selling today, the goods news is, average sales prices are well above the 2004 levels. If you purchased when prices were at the peak - hopefully you are buying as well today taking advantage of today's lower values. In closing, Balistreri Realty has been here to assist the residents of Lighthouse Point since 1964. Today we are a regional firm and part of the laregest relocation network in the world, closing more sales globally than any national franchise network. Balistreri Real Estate is located in Lighthouse Point on Sample Road to assist you. Call 954-691-1800.

We Invite You to Our Book Discussion Group By LHP Library Director Doreen Gauthier

Perhaps as enjoyable as becoming lost in the reading of a book is the opportunity to share your emotions and impressions of that book with other readers. Book discussion groups are certainly not a new phenomenon. Virtually every community, large or small, has at least one cohesive assembly. Some groups are affiliated on basis of genre, some groups discuss only scholarly tomes, while "chick lit" may be fare for a select few, others, such as the Lighthouse Point Library's members are eclectic readers. The September issue of Real Simple magazine contained an article based upon their readers' responses to the question" what is the best book your book club has read?" The poll contained a variety of titles from contemporary to classic. This is what makes such groups enjoyable. As adults, if we select a book from the shelf and it doesn't grab our interest immediately or in at least the first 100 pages, there is no law which mandates we finish it. This holds true of the book groups - if the group chooses a title you personally don't like or didn't finish, that's okay. There is no grading system, no pass or fail mark. The Lighthouse Point Library sponsors a Book Discussion Group. This meeting is funded and coordinated under the auspices of the Community Block Development Grant program. This grant provides a copy of the books for each person. The members read a pre-selected work every

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four weeks and then meet to talk about the title on the fourth Thursday. Members often suggest titles for the group based upon personal interest. As Library Director, it has been my pleasure to share with this group a number of recommendations. Some of the titles the group has read are Secret Life of Bees, Kite Runner, Three Cups of Tea, Good to Great, Beach House, and coming in October will be Twelve Mighty Orphans by Jim Dent. November's selection is Dave Barry's The Shepherd, the Angel, and the Miracle Dog Walter. Through the years we've been exposed to "classic American literature" with Sinclair Lewis' Main Street (the universally most disliked book in the tenure of the meetings) and Willa Cather's My Antonia. The Homer Hickam trilogy kept us busy for three months. Let's not forget Marley or The Water is Wide or Fried Green Tomatoes. One title seemed to suggest another - what do we read next never seems to be a problem. We invite you to join our monthly gatherings -discussion is optional. No written assignment is directed; only the effort of reading an enchanting work is required. Remember, if you don't like it, you're not going to fail the course - though most of us would like to know the reason why you were disappointed or uninspired or bored. There's always another month and a new bound treasure of a wordsmithing to tempt you.

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Hot Off the Grill By John Offerdahl (a.k.a. The Gridiron Griller) For a year now, I've been bringing you simple, delicious grilling recipes geared for the weekend tailgater/backyard BBQ enthusiast. Beginning this fall you'll be able to see those recipes in action as I grill them up on Channel 4's Gridiron Griller segments Friday through Sunday mornings. Each week I will be showing you some tricks and tips on grilling a featured recipe. If you miss the segment, log onto www.offerdahl.com to watch it and print out the ingredients. This month's recipe is making its camera debut on one of the first shows. It's a winner because it's so easy to make and the flank steak is loaded with flavor. The grilled vegetables put on quite a show for the camera as they will for your hungry fans too. It's a great away game, half-time recipe because the grilling is fast and everyone can assemble his own fajita during the commercials if you lay out all the toppings. The Gridiron Griller, still undefeated!

Tex-Mega Fajitas PREP: Marinating the flank steak • 4 large cloves garlic crushed • 2 jalapeno chiles, seeded and chopped finely • 1/3 c. fresh squeezed lime juice • 1/4 c. olive oil • 11/2 T. chili powder • 2 tsp. cumin ground • 1 1/2 tsp. garlic salt • 1/4 c. fresh cilantro chopped • 1 1/2-2 lbs. flank steak Place marinade in a Ziploc bag and mix. Place flank inside the bag, remove air and seal tightly. The flat, tough steak will tenderize in the marinade and take on a rich flavor. Refrigerate the bag for 30 minutes minimum, up to 1 day. Marinating the vegetables (As the steak is marinating, prep the vegetables) • 1 large red pepper - cut the peppers lengthwise, remove seeds and slice into long strips • 1 large yellow pepper • 2 jalapeno peppers - cut into super thin strips • 8-10 scallions, bottoms trimmed - Leave scallions whole, but trim off the white roots. Remove the flank steak from the marinade and pour all the peppers and onion into the bag. Seal and toss to coat with marinade. Let sit for 5 min before pouring peppers into a grill basket Prepping the tortillas Wrap the tortillas in a heavy aluminum foil READY: Preheat gas grill to high. Charcoal high is 400 with hand held at 4" for 4 second. Oil grates just before placing meat on grates. LET'S GRILL! • Place the grill basket with vegetables over the high heat. Grill until tender and charred (~12 min.). • Place the flank steak directly on the grill turning once or twice until medium-rare and slightly charred (It takes 6 minutes/side on my grill). • On the flip of the steak with 6 minutes to go, place the tortillas wrap on the grates to warm. • Pull the meat, vegetables and tortillas when done (12th minute) and allow the meat to rest on a cutting board for 2 minutes. • Slice the flank thinly across the grain to add tenderness. • Serve the fajitas by letting everyone make his own, heap the tortillas with meat, cheese, sour cream, pico de gallo, and guacamole. What's on Your Plate Today? www.offerdahls.com

A Victim of Domestic Abuse? You are not alone

Broward Sheriff Al Lamberti Reports October is Domestic Violence Prevention month and the men and women of the Broward Sheriff's Office are committed to stopping violence in the home. Every nine seconds, a woman is battered by her husband, boyfriend or live-in partner in the United States. Last year, Broward County experienced at 300% increase in domestic related homicides against women. As Sheriff of Broward County, I am taking a stand against this violent trend! When brutality includes family members or people involved in a relationship, it is termed as "domestic violence" - and it is against the law. Until recent years, domestic violence was considered a private family matter. That is no longer the case, especially in the eyes of law enforcement. Oftentimes victims do not realize they are in an abusive relationship. If your husband, boyfriend or partner does the following, you are being abused: • is exceptionally moody or has a frightening temper • prevents you from seeing your friends or family • threatens to hurt or kill you, your children, your family, friends or pets • yells at you, reprimands you or demeans you in public • hits, slaps, pushes or shoves you, pulls your hair or inflicts physical injury on you in any way • prevents you from getting or keeping a job • keeps you from leaving the house or locks you out of the house • does not allow you to know about family finances or keeps you in poverty If you are a victim or you know someone who is a victim of domestic violence, there is help out there for you: • If you or someone you know is in immediate danger, dial 9-1-1. • BSO's Victim Services Unit employs specially trained detectives to detect abusers that may victimize children, spouses, elders or the disabled. The unit also provides support and assistance to victims of domestic violence. BSO offers a free Domestic Violence Emergency Cell Phone program, which provides a lifeline to emergency services. For more information about BSO's cell phone program or if you need assistance from the Victim Services Unit, please call 954.321.4200. • Call Women in Distress at 954.761.1133 (available 24-hours a day) for emergency shelter and resources, counseling or ongoing needs. You may also visit www.womenindistress.com for additional information about the services they provide. • You can report abuse against children or the elderly by calling 1.800.96.ABUSE . • Often, pets need protection too. The C.A.R.E. (Companion Animal Rescue Effort) program provides shelter and care for animals, allowing families to go to safety without having to leave their pets behind. The animals are returned when the family has a safe place to live. For more information, contact Lt. Sherry Schlueter at 954.321.4239. If the situation is urgent, call 954.765.4321 and ask the duty officer to contact Lt. Schlueter immediately. It goes without saying that any violent crime is unacceptable, but when crimes are committed by a family member or person of trust it is especially disturbing. If you are a victim, you are not alone - the Broward Sheriff's Office and Women in Distress will help you. For more information about domestic violence prevention, visit www.sheriff.org/domesticviolence. Sheriff Al Lamberti Lighthouse Point Magazine

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IDENTITY THEFT

Bew are, It’s Trick or Treat Time! Goblins & Identity Thiev es — Oh My!

We often hear about identity theft and the many costs, frustrations and headaches it causes for its (presumably adult) victims. But did you know that your toddler's identity is at risk too? That's right. We now need to be Denise Richardson protective of our children's identities too. The daily newspapers are filled with headlines about data thefts that serve as constant reminders that we are not in total control of our identities and that everyone on this planet (young or old) is at risk. ID thieves have even been known to steal the identities of the dead. One type of identity fraud that is rarely discussed, however, is the theft of a child's identity. Kids make perfect targets for identity thieves since the theft of a child's identity can go undetected for a long period of time. Often, the theft isn't discovered until a young adult is denied a student loan, credit or employment, all because of a destroyed credit rating. It is reported that more than 11,500 children are victims of identity theft each year, however that number is growing and largely under-reported because parents often do not know that their children's personal information has been hijacked. While children's "identities" are typically stolen to create new accounts, more and more, they are being used by undocumented workers to gain employment. Because the Social Security Administration does not have a "check and balance" system in place to tie names, ages and genders to social security numbers, thieves are able to manipulate the identities of children and use them to their advantage. Take the case of Zach Friesen. Friesen had his identity stolen when he was just seven years old. The problem is, he didn't find out about it until he was 17. He was stunned to learn that he was denied both a student loan and a job - due to his bad credit history! He soon found out the reason-someone had purchased a houseboat in his name, leaving him with a $40,000 debt and a contaminated credit report. Zach and his mom spent weeks on the phone with banks, credit bureaus, and the police in an effort to clear his name. A child's personal information can be compromised by a variety of third-parties, including: doctors' and dentists' offices, school districts, insurance providers or even youth sporting leagues. What can parents do to protect their children? • Call the major credit bureaus - Experian, Equifax and TransUnion - and check quarterly for a credit report for your child. You want to be certain that no credit report exists. If a report does exist, you'll need to call a credit repair agency to restore the report and immediately place a fraud alert on that account. That fraud alert will need to be renewed every 90 days. • Contact the Social Security Administration annually to request a work history for your child's social security number. As you would assume, you are looking to find a blank work history.

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• If your children receive junk mail or offers for credit from lenders or credit card companies, this could be a red flag that someone is using their identity. • Consider engaging one of the many identity theft protection services available on the market today that specifically monitor your child's identity. Having spent the better part of 15 years writing dispute letters and placing phone calls in an effort to reclaim my true identity, I can tell you firsthand how costly, challenging and timeconsuming the process can be! Having someone else take on the credit cleanup process for you can save hours and hours of frustration and that's why I find value in some of the proactive/restorative services offered on the market today. There are a variety of companies including banks, credit unions and the service I personally subscribe to, LifeLock, that offer an array of options all useful in providing much needed assistance in a world in which we no longer have control over our own, or our children's, personal information. Data breaches will continue to happen and criminals will continue to find new and innovative ways to steal our most valued possessions -our children's and our own identities! Here are a few Identity theft statistics to think about: • An identity is stolen every 3-4 seconds -and at least five percent are kids. • More than 250 million Americans have had their data lost over the last three years • Identity theft complaints hit 800,000 in 2007 (up from 670,000 in 2006) • The top 5 states for identity theft are Arizona, California, Florida, Texas and Nevada Remember, when it comes to identity theft, it's what you don't know that will hurt you! Take the necessary safeguards now to ensure your children have a clean and accurate credit rating when they need to use it. As a courtesy to Lighthouse Point readers, (and those you care about), LifeLock has kindly offered a free 30 day trial with a 20% discount for life when you use the promotional code: Lighthouse. This discount reduces the adult membership to a mere $88.00 per year or $8.00 a month, and children up to age16 can be protected for as little as $20.00 a year or $2.00 a month with an adult membership. To take advantage of this special offer, simply call 800LifeLock and mention the Lighthouse promo code or go to LifeLock.com and enter the promotional code after clicking enroll. As always, if you have any questions whatsoever, feel free to contact me at your convenience. Visit givemebackmycredit.com/blog for more tips to avoid fraud.

BUY A SHREDDER — IT COULD BE THE BEST FRIEND YOU EVER HAD!

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

TPROVINCIAL FRENCH SANDWICH

SCANDINAVIAN SANDWICH

• Butter • Havarti or cream cheese with plenty of dill • Gruyere cheese, thinly sliced, or soft Brie • Potato salad, lightly mashed • Radish, thinly sliced • Hard-cooked egg, sliced • Sprouts from sunflower seeds or peas (or mesclun, • Thinly sliced cooked beets, patted dry if sprouts are unavailable) • Sprinkle of Herbes de Provence (includes thyme, PREPARATION: S basil, sage, rosemary, marjoram, fennel seed, and E P Spread bread of choice ECI lavender) R with cream cheese or H IC W PREPARATION: D Havarti. Add a layer of mashed potato AN S Split and butter a small N salad and top with egg and beet slices. Salt and pepE baguette or French roll. GRE per to taste. Add other ingredients and salt and pepper to taste. VEGAN SOUTHWEST SANDWICH This is one sandwich that is safe to make ahead • Refried beans • Shredded cheddar or Jalapeno pepper jack (nonVEGAN TUSCAN SUN SANDWICH vegan option) • Leftover cooked eggplant, peppers, zucchini, • Salsa and onions–or a combination • Leftover Corn Relish Salad, with excess dressing • Sundried tomatoes packed in oil, drained, or fresh drained off tomato, thinly sliced • Lettuce or mesclun greens • Oil-cured olives, pitted and sliced PREPARATION: • Minced garlic Spread a wrap or flour tortilla with refried beans. Top • Dried rosemary with Corn Relish Salad, a little salsa, and shredded •Salt and pepper to taste cheese, if using. Salt and pepper to taste. Place salad PREPARATION: greens or lettuce on top and roll wrap up. (The beans Mix all ingredients. When ready to eat sandwich, serve as a moisture barrier, so this is safe to make stuff pita or spread wrap or bread with filling. ahead.) FUN VARIATION: Variation: Try using leftover guacamole in place of Cut a small Italian loaf in half crosswise. Hollow out the salsa. Or simply add sliced avocado to your sandthe inside of both halves with your hands, saving the wich (with a few drops of lime juice to prevent too soft interior bread for another use. Just before eating, much discoloration). Sliced canned jalapeno pepper stuff the loaf cavities firmly with vegetable mixture. adds spice, too! May be cut into rounds and skewered with toothpicks to keep them together. VEGAN MIDDLE EASTERN SANDWICH NON-VEGAN VARIATION: Add some shaved • Hummus or baba ghanoush, depending on Pecorino cheese. your preference • Leftover cooked couscous • Thinly sliced cucumber and red onion WE ALWAYS WELCOME • Lettuce Y OUR FAV ORITE RECIPES • Salt and pepper to taste PREPARATION: PLEASE SHARE THEM Stuff pita with ingredients.

WITH Y OUR NEIGHBORS!

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HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO YOU! Hey Kids! Born in November?

PARENTS

Send us your photos before October 8th!

IF YOU PREFER THAT WE DO NOT INCLUDE YOUR CHILD’S LAST NAME, PLEASE BE SURE TO LET US KNOW!

Include your name & 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 SEE PHOTOS WORLD-WIDE AT: www.LHPmag.com

H H A A PP PP Y Y B B II R R T T H H D D A A Y Y

Leah and Carly turn 9 on October 14th

Kelyn turns 4 on October 10th

T T O O Y Y O O U U Alfie turns 4 on October 13th

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Makena turned 6 on August 21st www.lhpmag.com

Jack Young turns 1 on October 17th

"Brow ard County's Challenges" When you first elected me to be your County Commissioner in November 2006, I told you that Broward County faced numerous challenges. For too long, the Broward County Commission had been out of touch with the needs of its residents. I agreed to be your voice on the County Commission advocating for lower property taxes; fiscal accountability; more open and green spaces; and yearly reserve funding for beach restoration. I pledged to be an environmentally sensitive, business friendly County Commissioner. As I have written in my previous newsletters, we have made substantial progress in the last 18 months. (For earlier articles, go to http://www.broward.org/kenkeechl/newsletters.htm.) Nevertheless, many challenges still face Broward County. I will briefly discuss three challenges. First and foremost, the Broward County Commission must continue to cut spending and lower property taxes. The residents of Broward County are hurting. Quite simply, many are finding it difficult to afford to live in Broward County, and an increasing number are finding it difficult to make their monthly mortgage payments. While the Commission doesn't have jurisdiction to address the property insurance crisis, we do have the ability to lower the County's portion of your property tax bill. I will continue to advocate a) for lower property taxes; b) against wasteful spending practices; and c) to streamline and/or eliminate unnecessary Departments, Divisions and Sections within Broward County's bloated government. Second, the Broward County Commission must continue to attract (and retain) businesses in Broward County. While we undoubtedly need to expand the types of businesses in Broward, it is without question that tourism and the marine industry are currently our two most important business segments. For the last two years, I have been the Broward County Commission's appointee to the Broward Alliance, Broward's public/private business partnership. In this position, I have worked closely with Broward's leading CEOs so I have firsthand knowledge of the

COMMISSIONERS’ REPORT

numerous issues facing the business community. I am convinced that the Broward County Commission has made three important decisions which must be finalized. We voted to expand the southern runway at the Hollywood/Ft. Lauderdale International Airport. We voted to expand (in an environmentally sensitive manner) Port Everglades. We voted to construct an onsite convention center hotel in Fort Lauderdale. These three decisions alone will ensure that Broward does not lose its Ken Keech, District 4 competitive edge. County Commissioner Third, we must address our impending wastewater and drinking water crisis. This issue encompasses quality, as well as quantity. Quite simply, we continue to pollute our oceans with our wastewater, and we continue to consume drinking water at an alarming rate. Fortunately, the County Commission is now taking steps to substantially reduce its release of wastewater into our ocean. Moreover, as your County Commissioner I have learned that we don't have a lack of drinking water. We have a lack of cheap drinking water. Notwithstanding the current property downturn, increased residential and commercial development in Broward is inevitable. The County Commission must continue to proactively plan for and invest in alternative water supply sources such as reverse osmosis, desalination, water reuse, as well as other options. Again, these are just three of the issues facing Broward County today. I look forward to addressing each of these issues as your County Commissioner. [email protected] Broward County Commissioner Ken Keechl [email protected] (954) 357-7004

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AL’S CORNER

40 YEAR INSPECTION REQUESTS

We are beginning to see more forty year building inspection requests from property owners in the County. These inspections are mandated by the County and are uncovering many dangerous code violations and life safety issues. We recently made an inspection on a building that had major vioBy Al Siefert lations that created a risk of fire and also put their customers and employees in danger of electrical shocks. The inspection uncovered in part some of the violations below. Electrical splices or connections should be done in a non- combustible box with a cover to contain the problem in the event of a fire or arcing due to a bad splice. This building had several open boxes in the drop ceiling with the wires hanging out. There were several switches and receptacles with no covers. We also found splices made with no boxes in areas where customers and employees could come in contact with these live wires. In one case we found a splice made and covered by some carpeting. There were several incidences of water getting into the electrical system. The weather head (which is on top of the conduit where the FP&L lines come into the building) was broken and

CHIRO CARE

There were also many cases where it was obvious that the installer was not an electrician and was evidenced by the way the installations were made. The owners of the building were probably not at fault for these issues because they had recently bought the building. However it will be there their responsibility to make the corrections. It is always a good practice to get a building inspection before you purchase a property. In many cases the seller is responsible for the repairs. I believe that these inspections will be benefite the public. As a customer you should be able to feel safe when you are in any building that is open to the public. Al Siefert Electric (954) 493-9411

Backpack Safety

Dr. J. Peter Painter

A new and disturbing trend is emerging in America. Young children are suffering from back pain much earlier than previous generations. The culprit-----overweight backpacks! The US Consumer Product Safety Commission reports that backpack-related injuries sent more than 7,000 people to the emergency room in last year alone. This trend is not surprising when you consider the disproportionate amounts of weight they carry in their backpacks - often slung over just one shoulder. A recent study found that the average child carries a backpack that would be the equivalent of a 39 lb. burden for a 176 lb. man or a 29 lb. load for a 132 lb. woman. Of those children carrying heavy backpacks to school, 60 percent had experienced back pain as a result. The longer a child wears a backpack, the longer it takes for a curvature or deformity of the spine to correct itself. The problem has become so widespread; in fact, that the California State Assembly recently passed legislation that would force school districts to develop ways of reducing the weight of students' backpacks. Similar legislation is being considered in New Jersey as well. Limiting the weight to no more than 10 percent of the child's body weight and urging the use of ergonomically correct backpacks are possible solutions. What Can You Do? • Make sure your child's backpack weighs no more than 5 to 10 percent of his or her body weight. For example, your 80lb. Fifth grader should carry no more than an 8lb. backpack. A heavier backpack will cause your child to bend forward in an attempt to support the weight

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water was entering the electric meter. There are several broken conduits on the roof which were draining some water into the electrical panels in the building. This will eventually cause rust and possibly poor connections which will lead to a panel change. This water problem was already affecting one of the panels and some circuit breakers needed to be changed. Some of the air conditioning disconnects were not supported and lying on the roof where water could get in and ruin the equipment.

Lighthouse Point Magazine

on his or her back, rather than on the shoulders, by the straps. • The backpack should never hang more than four inches below the waistline. A backpack that hangs too low increases the weight on the shoulders, causing your child to lean forward when walking. Tighten the straps so that it is shorter. If that doesn't bring it above the waist then get a smaller backpack. • A backpack with individualized compartments helps in positioning the contents most effectively. Make sure that pointy or bulky objects are packed away from the area that will rest on your child's back. • Bigger is not necessarily better. The more room there is in a backpack, the more your child will carry and the heavier the backpack will be. Backpacks come in all different sizes, so when selecting your child's, you should take them with you and have them try it on. • Urge your child to wear both shoulder straps. If your child's backpack seems a little heavy, take it by Publix and use their scale to weigh and see what kind of load they are carrying. It isn't always necessary for them to carry all of their books with them. In fact, ask your child to leave some of them at school if they are not using them after they bring them home. You can also use a backpack on wheels for you child to pull their load. Taking these kinds of precautions early in your child's life will only benefit their overall spinal health and may prevent them from having problems in the future. Painter Chiropractic Center is located at 5002 N. Federal Hwy. in Lighthouse Point. Call 954-421-9171.

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Merchant Merchant ofof the the Month Month How ard Gr ace Mortgage Great Rates and Impeccable Service! This is precisely what Karen Hammett, owner of Howard Grace Mortgage, feels is helping HGM make it though the current mortgage "crunch". Despite the fact that many mortgage businesses are folding due to the sluggish Real Estate market and the demise of the Sub-Prime mortgage industry, HGM is hanging in there. They thank their many loyal clients who have trusted them and appreciate they go that extra mile to make their transaction flow smoothly, along with offering them the most competitive rates available, for giving them the strength to weather the storm. Even borrowers with perfect credit, sufficient verifiable income and down payment , who sometimes don't think about using a Mortgage Broker, are happy they chose to use one. HGM stays on top of ever changing industry guidelines. Borrowers keep coming back due to our "Great Rates and Impeccable Service." Karen Hammett, Missie Edwards and Mary Griffin The recently signed Housing and Economic Recovery Act of 2008 has Mortgage and Real Estate Professionals scratching their head. Although the provisions don't take effect until October 2008 and some January 2009, there is quite a bit of confusion regarding the interpretation. It pays in the long run to deal with a professional who does business with several banks in order to insure that the loan is placed with the lender that offers the best product for the borrowers' unique situation. Brian and Lisa Fabricant have been Karen Hammett's clients since the late 80's. They have followed her through several bank acquisitions to her own mortgage business. "Owning and operating a $15mm company takes most of my time. Having someone like Karen taking care of my mortgage needs is invaluable. She has come to my home on numerous occasions when it has been inconvenient for my wife and I to go to her office. 'Great Rates and Impeccable Service ' is not just a motto for Karen- it is how she runs her business. I am proud to refer her to my friends and business associates." Missie Edwards, Mortgage Broker with HGM since 2003, has developed a strong following of loyal borrowers as well. Joseph and Lillian Goater, of Pompano Beach, rely on Missie to keep them informed regarding the latest niche programs available at the bank most postured to meet their needs. "Missie makes me feel like I am her most important borrower. She takes a personal interest in my loan, keeping me up to

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date on the entire process. I rarely have to even pick up the phone to call her, she beats me to it!!" Mary Griffin, Mortgage Broker, the newest addition to the HGM staff, has quickly and passionately developed the HGM "attitude". Mary chose HGM due to the company philosophy. "We really enjoy growing the business the "old fashioned" way — one satisfied borrower at a time — no tricks — no gimmicks — just 'First Class' service! And, we go to great lengths to find the most competitively priced banks out there." HGM is very active in the Deerfield Beach and Lighthouse Point Chamber's of Commerce. According to Karen, " It's not only an effective way to build our local business and get our name out there, but it is actually a lot of fun. We really try to support one another especially during these tough times. Staying involved and maintaining a positive attitude has really helped us get through this." "We are proud that we have maintained our stability. I am confident we will make it through this. We thank our loyal borrowers and the friends and family that they continue to refer us. Without them we would not be where we are today! Howard Grace Mortgage is located at 625 SE 10th Street in Deerfield Beach. Call 954-421-3255

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