The "Greatest Movie Musical of All Time" is faithfully and lovingly adapted by Broadway legends, Betty Comden and Adolph Green, from their original award-winning screenplay. Filled with every memorable moment from the film and a downpour of unforgettable songs, Singin' in the Rain is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
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VOICES OF VERO
10
What are you most happy about? by Steve Glaser
14 If you were designing a house of your dreams, what features would you most want to include? by Steve Glaser
20 Li’l Voices: What’s the best thing you’ve learned that’s made your life better? by Doolin Dalton
Matching Sets, a Versatile and Stylish Option for Spring Break and Beyond by Marianne Howell
FOOD & WINE
23 Macauley Cabernet Sauvignon by Glenn Sudnick
24 Fudgy Brownies with Mint Frosting and Ganache, Guinness Brownies, St. Patrick’s Gum Drops by Barbara Freund 24
A Q&
We recently lost another dear friend, Debbie Murphy, at the age of 91. You may remember her playing the keyboard and singing at Squid Lips in Sebastian and CJ Cannon’s at the airport with her partner, banjo-playing Billy Mure, and then solo after his passing.
We found Debbie’s interview from 2012. The “American Idol” of her day, she was a Big Band Era singer and entertainer in the 50’s and 60’s, and continued singing and entertaining the rest of her life. Reading this interview, you can’t help but marvel at what an extraordinary life she led!
A Look Back On A Bygone Era of Music
THE EXTRAORDINARY EARLY CAREER OF
Debbie Murphy Brown
RHETT PALMER:
You’ve worked with many celebrities and stars. Tell us how that all began. I understand you ran away from home?
DEBBIE MURPHY:
When I was sixteen I went to Boston and lived in the Franklin Square House for Girls. I was lucky and I got a job immediately at John Hancock Company as a clerk. I bought myself a guitar and I taught myself how to play. I’ve always been a great one for learning how to do things through how-to books. Anyway, these big New York City producers came in to do shows.
They brought professional producers in to an insurance company to do shows?
That’s what they did in those days. John Hancock was huge. Not only did we do shows, we had a full orchestra when we did these shows.
To entertain their employees? Yes, absolutely.
You ended up being on stage. How did that happen? Because I was self taught on guitar and piano and other instruments, my friends suggested I try out for these shows, and I always seemed to get the lead roles. These shows were produced in a huge theatre with full orchestra; they were big productions.
I also was a dancer, believe it or not, dancing and singing, the whole thing. I was asked to be assistant choreographer to teach dance at Boston College for their Hasty Pudding type shows, because it was an all-boys school.
So there was a contest in Boston for the United Way which they called the Red Feather Drive. They used a red feather
instead of the thermometer; you know, as the donations came in, the line went up the feather. Television was just out at that time and they had a Miss Red Feather contest on TV. A load of girls went in. And what you did, you went on television every week singing your song, which was for me “Little Things Mean A Lot” which was very popular back then, by Kitty Kallen.
The people from the New England area sent in votes by postcards back then every week, similar to the American Idol today, only with postcards instead of phoning in votes. And if you won, you’d move on to the next week’s show. And this went on for weeks and weeks, for several months, and I kept winning.
At the end of the show they announced the winner, and I won first place. Second place went to a girl who looked exactly like Dolly Parton who played accordion, and she was an opera singer. Third place went to a girl country singer who played guitar. And I mean country
They put us together as a trio, if you can imagine those three totally different voices harmonizing! We performed EVERYWHERE, all over New England, in theatres, off the back of buses, trucks, hayrides. We did television commercials, radio commercials, every TV show at the time, every publication. It was a big big publicity thing they did back then. We wore white dresses with red feathers and we were called the Red Feather Trio, if you can believe it, and we sang for charity.
Wow. You sang with the big bands, too, didn’t you? Because of the publicity, I got a call to go on the road with Billy May, who had a very hot band at the time with two very popular hit songs, “Perfidia” and “My Lean Baby,” a great slurping saxophone sound. What a band!
We would open for such stars as Tony Bennett, The Four Aces, Four Lads, The Crew Cuts – remember “Sh-Boom ShBoom” and “Earth Angel?” Brenda Lee, and even Rudy Vallee. They called him
the slowest wallet in the west! And Julius La Rosa, Carmel Quinn with the Arthur Godfrey Show.
I was on the road with Billy May for a year and we would play opposite what they called Battle of the Bands, with bands like Tommy Dorsey, Jimmy Dorsey, Count Basie. We’d play a different town every night, all over the country, every state in this country, in Canada and Mexico, and a
couple in Europe. And I also recorded with them. It was unbelievable to go from place to place to place. And you know what a fun one was? The one where the ducks come out.
The Peabody? I loved that - that was such fun! Someone made a recording of the ducks quacking to audition for a song for the musical A Chorus Line. Between all the bands I was with, there wasn’t a place we didn’t hit. After I left Billy May, I went with the Johnny Long Orchestra.
Was this out of New York City? Well, it was with General Artists Corporation. They booked most of the bands at that time during those years.
And what years are we talking about? It was in the 50’s, I would say. And most of this was on the Big Band buses. As Willie Nelson says, “On the Road Again.” And
continued next page
Tour bus nicknamed "The Iron Lung" for the Billy May Orchestra, which featured Debbie in the 1950s
these weren’t outfitted like the buses we have today! But we were all on there.
Irecorded with Johnny Long on his album Let’s Dance, and I sang “In a Shanty in Old Shanty Town.” Almost everyone sings along now when we play that, even today. And “It’s a Sin to Tell a Lie.” The Johnny Long Orchestra appeared in a lot of movies with Sonja Henning and Bud Abbott and Lou Costello.
Then I was with the Pee Wee Hunt Dixieland Band who had a Number 1 hit song 16 weeks on the Hit Parade, “Twelfth Street Rag.” We started out at Thule AFB up at the North Pole and we played all the bases up there.
You’re kidding! The North Pole? This was during the Cold War with Russia. We’d get into these planes with all our instruments, you know, there were no seats. And we would fly over and entertain and sing and play to them from the airplane.
You wouldn’t land the plane? You’d sing from the plane? A lot of them we didn’t even land; you couldn’t land a plane there. We’d fly over little islands and use the radios, then fly on to the next island.
How did you ultimately get to the famous Pierre Hotel in New York City? After ten years on the road, I was exhausted. We were in New York and I went to a party given by Sy Oliver, a musician with the Tommy Dorsey Band, and I heard about an opening at the Pierre Hotel. I went and auditioned and got the job and ended up staying there ten years. Now, the Pierre Hotel is a prestigious exclusive hotel on Fifth Avenue. I was on a weekly radio show from there and did a lot of television work, including the World Fair in 1965. I was on the Patti Page Show, Joe Franklin Show; lots of newspaper columns -Earl Wilson, Dorothy Kilgallen, Walter Winchell. Every day in the paper it was something, and most of what they wrote wasn’t true. That was New York! If you do these shows, that’s what happens. Little Old New York by Ed Sullivan. I did the Pepsodent commercial song: You’ll wonder where the yellow went, when you brush your teeth with Pepsodent.
Tell me about Frank Sinatra. While I was at the Pierre I became very ill, and they decided I had a real severe case of TB and I had to stay at the New York Hospital for a year. While I was there, you know, I couldn’t earn any mon-
ey to take care of myself, so I rented my apartment to another girl singer –
You sublet your apartment? Right. I didn’t want to lose my apartment. And she got sick and couldn’t pay the rent, and all of a sudden my rent was being paid by Frank Sinatra. I didn’t find this out until later.
it went from being full bloom in the summer, to the colors in the fall, to being bare in the winter and covered with snow, and then blooming again and turning green, and then I left the hospital.
I often think how lucky I was to have this tree. That’s all I could see from my room for a year. God said, Debbie, it’s time to sit for a while and rest. And the Pierre held my job for me. Can you imagine that? In New York City? Wasn’t that great!
You were also friends with Rosemary Clooney, weren’t you? Well, shortly after that I met my husband Walter and he was managing big stars at the time: Rosemary Clooney, Joan Crawford, José Ferrer, Henny Youngman, and his favorite client Lassie –who never barked back. He had such great
Did you ever date each other? No, no. And also appeared in my room was an electric piano, a very new thing at the time. They would push it over to the bed so I could practice. I never did find out who sent me that piano. And also, a year later when I left the hospital, I received no bill. I never did find out who paid that bill.
Do you think Frank Sinatra paid your hospital bill? I often wondered. I don’t know.
But he paid your rent? Oh, yes, that I know. He did a lot of nice things all the time. So that was just another nice thing. But wasn’t I lucky that he did that?
Let me tell you my tree story. When I was in the hospital for that year, I had a window that looked out on a wall and there was this tree, the top of this tree against this wall. For a year, that’s all I had to see looking out my window was this tree. And
stories about Lassie. All the stars, really. He was Arthur Godfrey’s PR man during his heyday for several years. Boy, talk about stories!
We’d go out to dinner in Las Vegas with the group, including Frank Sinatra, Sammy Davis, Jr., the Rat Pack group, Rosemary Clooney. We were entertaining people like Dick Van Dyke, Buzz Aldrin, the astronaut, Joan Crawford, Gary Moore, Ethel Merman – what a voice! Betty Field, Charlie Jackson, Betty Ford, even Harry Truman. It goes on and on.
After I had my son. I was director of a folk group and played guitar with 16 young people for years and wrote and produced two children shows then. It was fun, I enjoyed it. I produced shows for the Rye Women’s Club, and the different country clubs in New York. I never stopped. It was always something musically.
Debbie singing with the Billy May Orchestra at the Arcadia Ballroom in New York City 1957
Table card announcing Debbie at the elegant Hotel Pierre, New York, NY.
March 20th is the International Day of Happiness!
I am happy that my sister will be graduating college soon. She is the first in our family to graduate and I am so proud of her.
Elena Garcia
CNA, HOME HEALTH CARE
What are you most happy about?
I am most happy about the direction that my life is going in and the new relationships I have formed. The love and abundance in my life!
Reggy Baptiste FINANCIAL ADVISOR, PRIMERICA
The recent birth of my son Zacarias brought so much happiness into my life.
Julio Enriquez SALES CONSULTANT, ADAMS HOMES
I am most happy that I am a humble person!
Eugene Crockett
REALTOR, THE ROCKET GROUP, EXP REALTY
Being that happiness is a complex emotion that includes a sense of purpose and fulfillment, I am very happy that I came to terms with who I am. I have achieved a state of mind consisting of feelings of joy, but most important, what I call “Diligent Acceptance,” meaning that I accept myself and my circumstances, but always strive to be better.
Karen Lau
PORTA POTTY TO GO
What’s not to be happy about? I am here! I am strong! I am healthy! I am grateful and blessed by all whom I have in my life. I pray for our country and all those who struggle.
Lalita Janke CEO, EMBRACING CHANGES
Family is everything! Health is a close second as well as your relationship with God, with a good helping of love and kindness mixed in.
Howard Darvin
SALES & MARKETING MANAGER
D•R•HORTON
HOMES
I am happy to be visiting beautiful Vero Beach for the first time, enjoying the pristine beaches and wonderful restaurants.
I am happy to have the love and support of a great family and also the support of many friends. I’m very happy to see my business growth over the past six months. Happy to have clients who appreciate my work and refer me to others.
Zach Smith Owner, Crud Cutters
Many things come to mind. I am especially happy to have a great family and so many wonderful friends that always support me in all my endeavors. I am also always happy to help people who are less fortunate than myself. I love fishing and boating and I am happy that I can walk out to my backyard, jump in the boat, and have an incredible day, forgetting any problems that I might have.
I am most happy for a great family and also happy to have so many feathered friends.
Jim Freitas
OWNER, CRAZY GOOD PAELLA & BAR
God’s grace and the blessing of good health and a wonderful family.
William Barkley DETECTIVE, POLICE DEPARTMENT
Tamara Lea Darress
PIN-UP PERSONALITY
Chef Matthew Piscitelli
CATERER & OWNER, MISSION KITCHEN
Retirement Planning: How to Organize Your Financial Junk Drawer
We all have that one junk drawer at home—it’s filled with old receipts, spare keys, and mystery cables we’re not sure we’ll ever need. But what about your financial junk drawer?
Over the years, you may have accumulated multiple 401(k) accounts, IRAs, life insurance policies, and other investments without clearly understanding how they all fit together. As you approach retirement, now is the time to take inventory, understand what you have, and determine how it all impacts your future financial security.
Why Your Financial Junk Drawer Matters
Many pre-retirees and retirees find themselves with a collection of financial accounts they haven’t looked at in years. These accounts may include:
• Old 401(k)s from previous jobs
• Traditional and Roth IRAs
• Life insurance policies you bought decades ago
• Annuities with terms you no longer remember
• Pensions or stock options from former employers
• Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) If you don’t have a strategy for these assets, you could miss out on opportunities to optimize your retirement income, minimize taxes, and help ensure financial security for your family.
Steps to Organize Your Financial Junk Drawer
1 Gather All Your Financial Documents. Start by compiling all financial statements, policies, and account information. This includes retirement accounts, bank accounts, investment statements, and insurance policies.
2. Identify What You Own and Where It Is. Make a list of each financial product, its value, and where it is held. Take note of any employer-sponsored plans, insurance policies, or investments that may require attention.
3. Understand How Each Account Works. Different types of accounts have different tax implications, rules, and benefits. For example:
• Traditional IRAs and 401(k)s are taxdeferred but require required minimum distributions (RMDs) starting at age 73.
• Roth IRAs grow tax-free and do not have RMDs.
• Life insurance policies may have cash value or death benefits that need to be reviewed.
4. Consolidate and Simplify Where Possible. Too many accounts can lead to inefficiencies. Consider rolling over old 401(k)s into an IRA for easier management. Review insurance policies to ensure they still meet your needs.
5. Work with a Team of Financial Professionals. Retirement planning is complex. You need a coordinated strategy that aligns tax planning, investment management, and insurance protection. A team of experts can help:
by Danny Howes, EA, RFC
• Financial Advisor: Helps align investments with your retirement goals.
• Accountant: Ensures tax efficiency and RMD planning.
• Insurance Agent: Reviews policies and ensures adequate coverage for long-term care and/or legacy planning.
The Benefits of Organizing Your Finances
By organizing your financial junk drawer, you can:
• Avoid unnecessary fees and penalties from forgotten accounts.
• Maximize your retirement income with a clear withdrawal strategy.
• Ensure your investments align with your goals as you transition into retirement.
• Gain peace of mind knowing you have wa plan in place.
Final Thoughts
Don’t wait until retirement to figure out what’s in your financial junk drawer. Taking the time to organize your accounts now can help you avoid costly mistakes and create a strategy that supports your long-term financial security.
A financial advisor who understands the big picture can help you navigate these complexities and ensure that every dollar works for you. If you’re ready to get your financial house in order or have any questions, feel free to reach out; we’re always happy to help!
DANNY HOWES, EA, RFC EAST COAST TAX AND FINANCIAL PLANNING
If you were designing a House of Your Dreams, what features would you most want to include?
Definitely concrete-block construction, a veranda and a lanai overlooking a beautiful swimming pool.
Rebecca Meuse
RETIRED PRINCIPAL
Must have three to four bedrooms, a gorgeous water view, and a gas stove in the kitchen.
Steve Marshall
RETIRED ENGINEER, FP&L
I would want a view of the water where I can relax and enjoy a cocktail.
Marie Dee
PROUD MOM AND GRANDMOM
I would have to have a large kitchen, an amazing master bathroom, and great closet space.
Joe Damiano
RETIRED FROM NJ
Most important to me would be an incredible kitchen with a large separate dining room. Also, I would love to have a fancy master bathroom.
Ellen Cucolo
RETIRED, HARRIS CORPORATION
I would want the latest in state-of-the-art kitchens, a sunken tub and jacuzzi, and a home with amazing views.
Marion Green
HAIR STYLIST
High ceilings with floor-toceiling windows, custom tile work, a sauna, and a deep wide tub in the master bathroom.
Christopher Lee Jones
RETIRED PARAMEDIC
FIREFIGHTER & AUTHOR
I would want a big ass master bedroom with French doors leading to my incredible swimming pool.
Melinda Damiano
RETIRED FROM NJ
1 would want a home with a flat roof, a movie theater, a man cave, a dock, and a built-in coffee maker in the kitchen.
Daniel Bederak
VICE PRESIDENT, POOLS BY VITALI
I would want a four-bedroom, one-story home with a threecar garage, swimming pool, in a great school district.
Amy Deckler
REALTOR, EXP REALTY
I would build a four-bedroom main house with a guest house for my visiting friends and family.
Rita Simmons
REATOR, EXP REALTY
Every person should have a room of their own where they can find sanctuary, no compromise, for creating, meditating, doing whatever one wants and just being. This foundational principle has served me well since my youth, having a place that is all mine to dream, strategize and execute my visions. Such a blessing!
Lisa Rymer
SOCIAL WORKER/THERAPIST
BY
MARCH EVENTS
Sunset Saturday CONCERT
March 8 • 5pm-8 pm with Anderson Council
Humiston Park - Ocean Drive
March 13 • 4pm-6pm FASTSIGNS
857 33rd Court SW (just off Oslo)
March 20 • 8am-9am
DIY Pest Control 827 8th Street
BY
Unstoppable
Ilove underdog stories, don’t you? Unstoppable is based on the book by the same title by Anthony Robles, et al. It’s a true story about his wrestling career as a disabled person; Anthony Robles was born without his right leg, for no known reason. He began wrestling in high school in Mesa, Arizona in 2003.
The movie begins with Robles (Jharrel Jerome) at the high school Nationals in Philadelphia—his chance to be a National Champion. In the stands is his dedicated mom, Judy (Jennifer Lopez). She overhears some girls making fun of her son and saying, “Is that even fair?” She stands up, glares at them, and says, “That’s my son. What, you’re not gonna cheer?!” Throughout the film, she is his strong advocate and protector, and he is hers.
Robles wins the title and receives a full ride to Drexel University in Philadelphia. However, he’s unsure about accepting it, even though his family barely gets by financially. Besides, he’s had his hopes set on Iowa. Drexel has never had a National Championship, whereas Iowa has had 73. Or, maybe he should stay local to help and protect his mom against his abusive stepfather, Rick (Bobby Cannavale), as tensions are rising at home.
His high school coach, Bobby Williams (Michael Peña) convinces his coach-friend at Arizona State University, Shawn Charles (Don Cheatle), to meet with Robles about a scholarship. But Charles seems to have already made up his mind and doesn’t give Robles a chance, other than to be a walk-on. After being rejected by Iowa, that is what Robles decides to do, since his stepfather has now left his mom and four younger siblings.
The movie shows the mental determination and physical tenacity with which Robles trains. At ASU, one of Coach Charles’ training exercises is a three-mile trek up a rocky mountain. Robles arrives at dawn ahead of the team. After a few bloody falls, he arrives at the top after his exhausted teammates, who are looking at him in utter amazement. After this, he has to wrestle a teammate for a spot on the team. He loses, but Coach Charles has been watching Robles train even before the mountain trek and he welcomes him to the team anyway.
However, in his sophomore year, life doesn’t get any easier. The wrestling program gets cut. His mom receives notice from the bank that they are losing the house because his stepfather hasn’t been paying the mortgage as he said he was. Robles makes his mom promise she will find a way out without taking any of her husband’s calls. He can pick up more hours at his job cleaning planes, and he finds his mom giving blood at different locations to make extra money.
Soon he gets called into Coach Charles’ office, who tells him some donors have stepped up to keep the wrestling program going, but there would be less money and consequently fewer athletes. Every scholarship athlete would have to agree for him to stay on the team. It gets put to a vote, and it has to
be unanimous. Robles sits feeling defeated as Charles tells him the result of the vote. It’s unanimous—plus they gave him a full ride!
Anthony Robles goes on to experience many victories and defeats. He makes it to the Finals at the NCAA Championships in Omaha, Nebraska in 2010, where he has to wrestle a National Champion from Iowa who’s never lost a match or period in his life—and he doesn’t lose this one. Robles is running out of time to be someone other than the guy with one leg who everyone feels a bit sorry for.
It’s now senior year. Can his mom save their home? Can Robles win the last championship of his senior career so that being the guy with one leg won’t be the most important thing about him?
Watch it and find out. You won’t be bored for a minute. And bring tissues.
One thing I found interesting is that Anthony Robles actually played himself in some of the wrestling match scenes. In a January 16, 2025 USA Today article, the now 36-year old Robles stated, “I got the opportunity to train for something all over again, to go back in time and just relive that special moment.”
And at the end of the film, you’ll find out many other interesting facts about Roble since his college days.
EASY 5 STARS!
Penny Cooke is an award-winning author of Pursuing Prayer: Being Effective in a Busy World, The Wake-up Prayer children’s book, and her latest, Pursuing Prayer for America. She co-hosts the Seeds of Hope podcast with Del Bates on Wednesdays on Vero’s Voice Facebook page. Learn more at pennycookeauthor.com
I asked kids at The Youth Guidance Mentoring Academy,
“What is the best thing you’ve learned that’s made your life better?”
Lylah, 13
In babysitting, I’ve learned how to communicate and be a better caretaker.
Miracle, 8 Be kind!
Gael, 7
Nuala, 11
Don’t judge a book by its cover.
Don’t make a mess or I’ll get grounded!
Ari, 7
Math because it’s helpful in life.
Brayden, 11
To wait and look for cars in the parking lot.
Antonia, 10
How to swim because everyone in my family knows how to swim, except my dad. He does not know how to swim.
Lexie, 13
Always stay true to yourself and be honest.
Katriel, 9
Take advice when you get it.
Victoria, 10
Pay attention in school because you can build a better future.
Naelah, 10
When you’re thinking about giving up, just remember that you’ve got your whole life ahead of you.
Natalie, 10
How to use a computer.
Kalina, 8
You can always be yourself and don’t let anyone stop you from what you’re trying to achieve.
Israel, 12
Be nice to everybody.
Krystyn, 7
I’ve learned gymnastics and it’s fun!
Whether you are in search of a new family dentist or need a complete smile makeover, our practice is prepared to serve you with the utmost care and attention.
Every day, we help turn dream smiles into a reality. As one of the most sought-after Vero Beach cosmetic dentists, Dr. Planes and the team here at Planes Dental Arts have transformed the teeth of countless patients. We know how important a beautiful smile is and enjoy watching our patients gain renewed confidence in their appearance. We also know how important good health is to maintaining a new smile. From fillings and cleanings to implants and straightening, we offer preventive, restorative, and cosmetic solutions to fit the needs of the whole family.
Our team is highly trained and experienced in a wide range of dental services. With years of combined advanced education and an office equipped with state-of-the-art technology, it is easy to see why so many people choose Planes Dental Arts and Dr. Alex Planes as their Vero Beach cosmetic dentist. Whether you need general dental care or feel embarrassed or unhappy with the appearance of your smile, we are prepared and ready to address your concerns. Contact us today to schedule your consultation and find out how dental care at Planes Dental Arts can meet and exceed your expectations.
Macauley Sauvignon Cabernet
Today there are over 500 wineries in Napa alone that encompass 45,000 acres, and of that, 18,200 acres are dedicated to Cabernet Sauvignon. That’s why I’m always suggesting to my readers to take a chance and explore all that the world of wine has to offer.
Hunting for fine wine is great fun, and when I find a wine like the Macauley Cabernet Sauvignon 2014, I get really excited. It’s a blend of 80% Cabernet Sauvignon, 14% Merlot, and 6% Petite Merlot, aged 21 months in French Oak. Introducing wines such as these to my friends is an experience. The expression after a sip of great wine from one of my crystal glasses gives me pure pleasure.
This wine is sexy, exciting with complex dark berry flavors. Deep purple in color, the sweet incense leaves the glass to fill the senses. The wine has plenty of crème de cassis, followed by licorice and mocha. And it does not need a supporting cast of food; it is a show unto itself.
However, I’m going on the extreme side and creating a sauce for my prime steak that is perfect for this wine. My ingredients are cherry preserves, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, fresh tomato sauce, and the best malt vinegar I can find – all in equal proportions. Mix all ingredients in a small sauce pan and slowly watch it reduce until the sauce comes together. For the support side dishes, I’m roasting a tomato covered with Parmigiano-Reggiano, and some delicate sautéed asparagus.
Of course, my favorite baker is going to create individual servings of Grand Marnier cake dipped in my favorite Lake Champlain 57% Dark Chocolate. Speaking of exciting all the senses, this cake has an explosion of flavors with the Grand Marnier, vanilla, orange peel and dark chocolate.
Cyndie, can you make some homemade whipped cream, too? PLEASE!
Cheers!
Glenn
SWEETS for St. Patrick's Day
We’re celebrating St. Patrick’s Day with our recipes this month with one of my all-time favorites: Brownies! Who doesn’t love all that chocolatey goodness? Two recipes: One brownie is topped with green peppermint frosting in honor of the day, and the other is all about the Guinness beer.
FUDGY BROWNIES WITH MINT FROSTING & GANACHE
Thick and fudgy brownies topped with a sweet peppermint-y frosting and microwaved chocolate ganache. Looks like a lot of steps, but it’s an easy recipe to follow.
Ingredients
For the Brownies
1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter
8 ounces semi-sweet chocolate, coarsely chopped
1 and 1/2 cups granulated sugar
1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
4 large eggs, room temperature
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon salt
3/4 cup all-purpose flour (spooned & leveled)
1/4 cup natural unsweetened cocoa powder
For the Mint Frosting Layer
1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
3-4 cups confectioners’ sugar
1/4 cup milk or heavy cream
2 and 1/4 teaspoons peppermint extract*
optional: 1-2 drops gel green food coloring
For the Chocolate Layer
1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
1 heaping cup (around 200g) semi-sweet chocolate chips**
Instructions
For the Brownies:
1. Melt the butter and chopped chocolate in a medium microwave-safe bowl in 20-second increments, stirring after each, in the microwave. Pour into a large mixing bowl and allow to slightly cool for 10 minutes.
2. Adjust the oven rack to the lower third position and preheat oven to 350°. Line the bottom and sides of a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on all sides (so you can easily remove brownies from pan). Set aside.
3. Whisk the granulated and brown sugars into the cooled chocolate/butter mixture. Add the eggs, one at a time, whisking until smooth after each addition. Whisk in the vanilla. Gently fold in the salt, flour, and cocoa powder.
4. Pour batter into the prepared baking pan and bake for 35-36 minutes or until the brownies begin to pull away from the edges of the pan. (A toothpick inserted in the center should come out with only a few moist crumbs when the brownies are done.)
5. Allow to cool completely in the pan set on a wire rack. Once completely cooled, lift the parchment paper out of the pan using the overhang on the sides. Place the whole thing on a baking sheet as you make the frosting. (Do not cut into squares yet.)
For the Mint Frosting Layer:
6. In a medium bowl, using an electric mixer, beat the butter on medium speed until smooth and creamy, about 2 minutes. Add the confectioners’ sugar and milk. Beat for 2 minutes on low speed, then increase
to high speed and beat for 1 additional minute. Add the peppermint extract and food coloring and beat on high for 1 full minute. Taste and add a drop or two more peppermint extract if desired.
7. Frost cooled brownies and refrigerate at least 1 hour to allow the frosting to “set” before putting on the final chocolate layer.
For the Chocolate Layer:
8. Melt the butter and chocolate chips in a medium microwave-safe bowl in 20-second increments, stirring after each, in the microwave. Once melted and smooth, pour over mint layer. Gently spread with a knife or offset spatula Refrigerate the brownies at least 1 hour to “set” the chocolate before cutting.
9. Use a very sharp large knife, and wipe the knife off with a paper towel between each cut.
* Peppermint extract is extremely strong and can quickly taste like toothpaste. Better to start with a smaller amount and add more to taste.
** Use chips here, as they make a softer ganache which is easier to spread and bite into.
GUINNESS BROWNIES
When we think of a St. Patrick’s Day beverage, it’s Guinness. Baking with Guinness mellows out the complex flavors of this iconic beer. These brownies are made with reduced Guinness Draught, topped with a Guinness-infused frosting.
Ingredients
For the Brownies
one 12-ounce bottle Guinness Draught
3/4 cup (12 tablespoons) unsalted butter
two 4-ounce bars semi-sweet chocolate, coarsely chopped
1 and 1/4 cups granulated sugar
3 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup all-purpose flour (spooned & leveled)
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon espresso powder
For the Guinness Frosting
1/2 cup (8 tablespoons) unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
2 cups confectioners’ sugar
2–3 tablespoons reduced Guinness (left over from the first step)
1 teaspoon espresso powder
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions
1. In a small saucepan, bring the Guinness to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce to medium heat and simmer until reduced down to 2/3 cup, about 20-22 minutes. Set aside to cool for at least 10 minutes. You will use 1/2 cup in the brownies and the rest in the frosting.
2. Preheat the oven to 350°F and grease a 9-inch square baking pan or line with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides to lift the finished brownies out. Set aside.
3. Place the butter and chopped chocolate in a large microwave-safe bowl. Melt in 30 second increments, whisking after each, until completely smooth. Whisk in the sugar and 1/2 cup of reduced Guinness until completely combined. Whisk in the eggs and vanilla extract. Finally, whisk in the flour, salt, and espresso powder. The batter will be thick and shiny. Pour/spread evenly into prepared pan.
4. Bake for 32 minutes, then test the brownies with a toothpick. Insert it into the center of the pan. If it comes out with wet batter, the brownies are not done. If there are only a few moist crumbs, the brownies are done. Keep checking every 2 minutes until you have moist crumbs. (My brownies took 35 minutes.)
5. Remove from the oven and place on a wire rack to cool completely before frosting or cutting into squares.
Make the frosting:
6. In a large bowl, using an electric mixer, beat the butter on high speed until completely smooth and creamy, about 2-3 minutes. Add the confectioners’ sugar, beating on low at first, then increasing to high speed. Once creamy and combined, beat in 2 tablespoons of reduced Guinness, the espresso powder, vanilla extract, and salt. Taste. Add the remaining reduced Guinness if needed. If you want the frosting a little thinner, add a splash of milk.
7. Frost cooled brownies.
8. Cover and store leftover brownies at room temperature for up to 1 week.
ST. PATRICK’S GUM DROPS
Lime gum drops in a shamrock shape are an easy-to-make party candy. You can make them in any flavor or shape – tasty little treats for the holidays!
Ingredients
1 1/2 cups applesauce
2 1/4 cup sugar, plus more for sprinkling
2 boxes (3-oz) lime Jello
2 envelopes unflavored Knox gelatin
Instructions
1. Grease a 13×9 pan and set aside.
2. Combine all ingredients in a saucepan and bring to a boil over medium heat, stirring constantly. Boil for a minute.
3. Pour into the prepared pan and refrigerate until set.
4. Dust a large cutting board with sugar.
5. Using a spatula, loosen the sides of the jello and turn out onto the sugar-covered cutting board.
6. Dust the top of the Jello with more sugar.
7. Using a shamrock shaped cookie cutter, cut out gum drops.
8. Roll edges in extra sugar and set onto wax paper for 1 hour to dry out slightly.
9. Store in an airtight container.
THE BASICS of Computer Hardware
Computers may seem like magic boxes that allow you to do complex tasks, but in essence they are just a few essential components that work together to process data, run applications, and display information. Whether you are interested in getting a new computer, upgrading your existing one, one just curious about technology, there are a few main components of computers you should be familiar with.
The Motherboard
The motherboard is the main circuit board that connects all the components inside of a computer. It acts as a central hub allowing the CPU, RAM, storage devices, GPU, and PSU to communicate with each other. Different motherboards support different CPU sockets or RAM generations so it’s important to make sure the motherboard you get is compatible with your CPU and RAM if you are building or upgrading a PC.
CPU (Central Processing Unit)
The CPU is often called the “brain” of the computer, as it processes instructions and performs calculations. It handles everything from loading a website to running an application like Microsoft Word or Excel. The speed of a CPU is measured in gigahertz (GHz) and determines how fast it can process different complex tasks. The most common CPU manufacturers are Intel and AMD, and they both have different models for their CPUs based on the purpose of the computer such as basic office use or gaming.
RAM (Random Access Memory)
RAM is the short-term memory of your computer as it temporarily stores the data that the CPU needs to access quickly. Having more RAM allows your computer to handle multiple tasks at once, like running several applications or keeping multiple browser tabs open. RAM is a form of volatile memory, meaning it will lose all stored data when the
computer is turned off. This is why applications may ask you to save your work periodically as until it’s saved to a storage drive it will disappear forever if the computer is turned off or the application closes.
Storage Drives (HDD and SSD)
Your computer’s storage drive is the long-term storage of your computer as it’s where things like the operating system, installed applications, and all your personal files can be stored without worrying about it being deleted when the computer is turned off. The two main types of storage drives available today are hard disk drives and solid state drives. HDD (Hard Disk Drives) offer larger storage capacities for lower prices in comparison to SSD (Solid State Drives) but are also much slower and more prone to failing.
PSU (Power Supply Unit)
The PSU is what converts electricity from your wall outlet into a form of electricity usable by your computer. It is also what supplies power to all the different components in your computer. When building or upgrading a computer, it is necessary to take the wattage of the PSU into consideration as adding another storage drive, for example, will require more power from the PSU.
GPU (Graphics Processing Unit)
The GPU, or graphics card, is responsible for rendering images, videos, and animations. Everyday tasks like browsing the internet, checking your email, and writing a word document don’t require a powerful GPU, but other tasks such as gaming or video editing do. Some computers will have integrated graphics built into the CPU, while others have dedicated GPUs from brands like NVIDIA or AMD for better performance.
Rami Al-Khatib
Rami Al-Khatib is an IT Support Technician at ACT Computers in Vero Beach. He graduated from IRSC with a Bachelor’s in Information Technology Management and Cybersecurity.
encouraging words
Enlisting Aid
TBY BETH WALSH STEWART
here’s nothing like getting first-hand knowledge from someone. Whether they’re telling you how to fix a broken plumbing seal or sharing the perfect recipe for banana bread, there’s no replacement for knowhow. When an informed person goes the extra mile and walks you through the encounter sharing tips and tidbits of information that helped them learn the ropes, you’ve struck gold.
What are you going through? Divorce? Empty nest? Job change?
Whatever it is, if there are words to describe it, you are not the first to go through it. Going it alone may not be the best method to remedy the chaos you feel has taken over your life. Getting the help you need will take courage and action, and your fear of letting another see your pain may slow down the process of enlisting aid. Get honest about the fear you feel. Are you afraid to let someone know about the situation because of how it will make you look in their eyes? Have you been judged harshly in the past, and learned that self-sufficiency is safer?
Let that old belief go and try something new: Ask for help. Seek counsel from someone who has stood in your shoes and is now able to smile and share the experience. Once you try this, you will see that the benefits of sharing a burden are huge. Even in your pain, you will realize you are not alone.
A leading benefit of sharing a problem is that the stress of carrying the load is minimized immediately. Just speaking about the trouble to a faithful witness opens the door to emotional support. Frequently, it is at this moment that you recognize that what you thought was hopelessness is actually helplessness. Once you reach out for help, hope has a place to blossom. Don’t underrate the incredible power of an attentive listener. That person will validate without speaking a word, reminding you of your significance and worth with eye contact and head nods. The feeling of being understood will often come strongly.
Moreover, the relationship you form with the listener will deepen as you let them know about your struggle. Mountain climbers rarely work alone, as they count on each other to get over the bumps that could keep them from reaching incredible heights. And as you “climb” with another, you will become open to another perspective. You may even see the trial in a completely new way. Like the mountain climber analogy, working with another brings new vistas that you could not have attained on your own.
Emotional pressure is weighty. Don’t choose to carry that load alone. Let someone who has experience with that pain help you overcome. Revisiting past difficulties allows a person to quantify healing and become grateful for the lessons learned. Because of this truth, when you ask for help, you will help them as much as they will help you.
Beth Walsh Stewart, MTh, is the Creator of BethWe, the nonprofit that was the impetus for this work. Dedicated to rescuing the stragglers lost in the shadows of the road of life, Beth is best-known for her Good Seed Podcasts, 12-Step seminars, weekly blogs, g.o.d. speaks books, and uplifting workshops. Beth lives by this motto: I have been called to help my brother find his authentic self and his God, and I best accomplish this end by sharing my pursuit of the same.
A 5-year-old boy who died was alive and well again, a demoniac was delivered and saved, people were set free of fear, unforgiveness, hatred – all by the Authority of the Name of Jesus Christ and the Holy Ghost/Holy Spirit.
LITHIUM BATTERIES should NEVER be placed in your recycling OR garbage carts!
Single-use alkaline batteries such as 9 volt, C, D, AA, and AAA are safe to dispose of with your regular trash.
Lithium batteries, such as rechargeable, cell phone and laptop batteries, and other hazardous household batteries are highly flammable and should NOT be put in a cart. Please bring them to one of the 5 Customer Convenience Centers or to the Main County Landfill.
Download the CARTer’s Corner app for the latest recycling information or visit indianriver.gov.
Kathleen Hollop is a healing evangelist who has experienced the miracles of God today. She has made 23 trips to Africa, Venezuela, and Columbia and also several trips to Maine.
Barnes and Noble and Amazon.
To Whom Do You Inquire?
BY PASTOR ALEX
Have you ever found yourself in a tough spot, wondering where to turn for answers? You’re not alone. We all face moments of crisis, and it’s natural to seek advice from friends, family, or even books. But have you ever considered that the best source of wisdom might be closer than you think?
When life throws challenges our way, our first instinct might be to lean on human wisdom. While there’s value in seeking counsel from others, true breakthrough comes from seeking God first. The Bible warns against relying solely on human strength, as seen in Jeremiah 17:5, which tells us that those who trust in man are like shrubs in the desert, missing out on the blessings that come from God.
reminding us that God is everlasting, and His wisdom is unmatched.
Here are some action steps:
Pray First Before turning to others, take your concerns to God in prayer. James 1:5 encourages us to ask God for wisdom, promising that He gives generously to those who seek Him.
While there’s value in seeking counsel from others, true breakthrough comes from seeking God first.
God’s wisdom is pure, peaceable, and transformative. Unlike human advice, which can be tainted by personal experiences and biases, God’s counsel is unchanging and rooted in truth. James 3:17 describes heavenly wisdom as pure and peaceable, offering a stark contrast to the confusion that often accompanies earthly advice.
You might wonder, “Why should I care about where I seek advice?” The answer is simple: because it affects the quality of your life and your relationship with God. When you prioritize seeking God, you open yourself up to His peace and guidance, which surpasses any human understanding. Psalm 146:3-5 highlights the blessing of trusting in God rather than in human strength,
Consult the Bible Make it a habit to turn to Scripture for guidance. The Bible is filled with wisdom and answers to life’s questions.
Avoid the Wrong Sources
The Bible warns against seeking guidance from mediums or fortune tellers, as these practices are detestable to God (Deuteronomy 18:10-12). Instead, rely on God’s Spirit for direction.
Seek Godly Counsel While it’s important to seek God first, there’s also value in seeking advice from those who are grounded in their faith. Look for mentors or friends who can offer biblical wisdom.
The point is clear: God wants to be your first source of guidance. What will you do this week to make Him your priority? Will you take your burdens to Him in prayer, trusting that He will provide the answers you seek? Remember, without taking this step, you might miss out on the peace and direction that only God can offer.
BY PASTOR RICH IENUSO
The Strength of My Heart
Psalm 73:26 says, “My flesh and my heart may fail; but God is the strength of my heart...”
Many of us need to have our spiritual heart strengthened. You may have a broken heart, or a sad heart, a fearful heart, a betrayed heart, or a proud and angry heart, or a heavy heart.
Remember, God can give us a heart transplant (Ezekiel 11:19, 18:31).
There is hope when we trust in the Lord. He offers us a pure heart. He washes us whiter than the snow. He restores the joy of our salvation (Psalm 51).
Trust in Him and ask Him to strengthen your heart because from your heart proceeds all the issues of life (Proverbs 4:23)
Blessings, Pastor Rich Ienuso
Pastor Alex Pappas is Senior Pastor at Oceans Unite Christian Center located in the Indian River Mall. Live broadcasts and podcasts are available at oceansunite.com.
Del Bates Penny Cooke pennycookeauthor.com delbates.com
