(12-21-2016) Has the holiday shopping grind put you in an “enough-already!!” mood? Then, why not consider more meaningful gifts? No parking woes, no bar-codes . . . and no re-gifting. Today’s Topical Currents considers simple holiday presents. Perhaps the gift of time. Chronicle family history for siblings. Enlarge and frame a great picture. Or, splurge for your niece’s trumpet lessons. Her mother will love it.

(12-15-2017) Today’s Topical Currents begins with “Doreen’s Deals” practitioner Doreen Christensen, of the Sun Sentinel . For holiday shoppers, Free Shipping Day is Friday for about one-thousand online retailers. Many have cash-back or coupon code rebates. www.ic3.gov shop.entertainment.com www.idtheftinfo.org www.sunsentinel.com/shop

(12-15-2016) Caterer extraordinaire, Bill Hansen from Bill Hansen Catering. He’s known as the luxury catering and event planner. With the holidays coming up, it’s time to think about planning parties and events. He talks about the secrets to a successful party and planning an event, and how to approach a caterer. Also his new Executive Chef, Dewey Losasso is with us and has brought some of his signature dishes to taste. Dinner in Minutes- Turkey and Black Bean Burrito – quick and easy for this

(12-13-2016) Today’s Topical Currents is a visit with tech and consumer expert David Pogue. His “Pogue’s Basic” series continues with Essential Tips and Shortcuts (That No One Bothers to Tell You) About Beating the System. From saving money on toothpaste to paying your income tax via credit card, Pogue has unique angles on not leaving money on the table.

12-12-2016 Today’s Topical Currents is an “At Your Service” edition, with regular contributor Donna Ballman. She’s an employee rights attorney and author. Ballman thinks some employees might have to scramble for coverage should the Affordable Care Act be rescinded, particularly those with preexisting conditions. Of course, we take listener calls on a wide variety of matters. www.nlrb.gov www.ballmanfirm.com

(12-8-2016) Today’s Topical Currents is with chef, author and syndicated columnist Linda Gassenheimer, with her annual “kitchen gadget” review program. Perhaps you’ll pick up gift ideas. Some of the items cost under 20-dollars. There’s a “customized” ice cream scoop available, and a powerful electric indoor grill capable of deep searing. Dinner in Minutes: Pork Scaloppini with Cauliflower Parmesan Fred gives his gift wine suggestions www.dinnerinminutes.com

(12-7-2016) This week we’ve talked on the air about public radio membership. And of course, many listeners have been long-time members of the station. So when did you first make a first pledge? Perhaps there’s a story about it . . . so give us details. Joseph Cooper and Bonnie Berman present the popular “Members Only” edition. We chat with esteemed members, have some fun, and get to know each other a little better.

12-06-2016 (rebroadcast) On t0day’s Topical Currents we visit with frequent contributor Dr. Paul George, and discuss South Florida history. We present some little known facts about times past in the growth of some of our communities: including, for example, Fort Lauderdale. Before there was an actual City, there were three Army forts named Lauderdale during the Second Seminole War.

(12-5-2016) Today’s Topical Currents looks at the current state of solar energy use in the Sunshine State. The two solar energy-related Florida Constitution Amendment questions went the way favored by environmentalists: Yes for One, No on Four So where are we now? Is it now time to invest in generating more solar at your home? We have experts on hand . . . and take your calls. www.flsun.org www.zinasunshine.com

12-01-2016 Today’s Topical Currents features a focus on Voices for Children of Broward County. The group works to give abused, neglected and abandoned children a Guardian ad Litem voice, while tending to their health, education and social needs. www.voicesbroward.org www.chroniclebooks.com